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  • The Future of Slim: Imagining the iPhone 17 Slim

    The Future of Slim: Imagining the iPhone 17 Slim

    There’s a lot of buzz about Apple’s next big thing – the iPhone 17 Slim. If rumors are to be believed, we might see this super-thin iPhone hit the market soon. After some blurry pictures leaked online, a detailed concept now gives us a glimpse into what this device might look like in everyday use.

    iPhone 17 Slim Concept

    The concept, crafted by WEIS Studio, shows the iPhone 17 Slim in someone’s hand, illustrating how thin it could be. According to the latest whispers, this phone could be just 5.5 millimeters thick. To put that into perspective, the iPhone 16 Pro measures at 8.25 mm, and the thinnest iPhone we’ve seen so far, the iPhone 6, was 6.9 mm.

    The concept also features a unique single-lens camera on the back with a bar-like design, setting it apart from the current iPhones. This matches up with what we’ve seen in the leaked images.

    Why So Thin?

    The idea of an iPhone this slim is both exciting and intriguing. If these rumors hold, the iPhone 17 Slim might be as thin as the latest M4 iPad Pro, which is 5.3 mm for the 11-inch model. Analysts think Apple is aiming for an ultra-thin design to make the phone more appealing, potentially increasing sales among those looking for something new and innovative.

    Public Reaction

    One user, Terry Benedict, commented, “Why would anyone want something so thin it seems fragile? I get changing the screen size or edge design, but this? It reminds me of Ian Malcolm’s famous line, ‘Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.’”

    What to Expect

    The iPhone 17 Slim is rumored to take the place of the “Plus” model, fitting between the standard iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro. However, due to its slim profile, some compromises are expected. It might not have multiple camera lenses or a large battery.

    The new model is expected to sport a 6.6-inch OLED screen with a refresh rate of 90Hz, not matching the 120Hz of the Pro models. Additionally, it will likely include Apple’s new in-house 5G modem, set to debut with the iPhone SE 4, paired with an A19 chip for better battery efficiency.

    You can watch the full concept video on Instagram to see more of this sleek design.

  • New AirPods Pro 3: Exciting updates coming soon

    New AirPods Pro 3: Exciting updates coming soon

    The wait is almost over for the next generation of Apple’s popular earbuds, the AirPods Pro 3, expected to hit the market this September with the iPhone 17. Here’s what we’re excited about.

    A Fresh H3 Chip

    The AirPods Pro 3 will feature a new H3 chip, which promises significant enhancements over its predecessor. The H2 chip in the AirPods Pro 2 brought notable improvements in sound quality and noise cancellation. With the H3, we can expect even better audio performance, possibly with longer battery life. The H2 chip’s success in providing rich bass and clear sound suggests the H3 could take these aspects to new heights.

    A New Look

    Rumors suggest that the AirPods Pro 3 will sport a new design, although details are sparse. The current design has been well-received, so any changes might be subtle, perhaps involving smaller stems or a better fit for comfort. These tweaks could make the earbuds even more appealing to users who prioritize style and comfort.

    Better Noise Cancellation

    The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) in the AirPods Pro 2 was a game-changer, and the upcoming model aims to improve this even further. Powered by the new H3 chip, the ANC in AirPods Pro 3 is expected to be significantly better, offering a quieter listening experience in noisy environments.

    Health Features Might Be Included

    While not confirmed, there’s buzz about new health features possibly coming with the AirPods Pro 3. Heart rate monitoring, similar to that in the Apple Watch, could be one of them. There’s also talk about temperature sensors and other health metrics, which would turn these earbuds into a wellness tool as well as an audio device.

    In summary, the AirPods Pro 3 are shaping up to be an exciting update with potentially better sound, a refined design, superior noise cancellation, and new health functionalities. Even if you’re happy with your current AirPods Pro 2, the advancements in the next generation might make them an irresistible upgrade.

    Source

  • New iPhone 17 Pro camera design leaked

    New iPhone 17 Pro camera design leaked

    A new leak shows that the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro might feature an innovative camera setup. According to the popular YouTube channel “Tech Updates,” the phone will have three back cameras, but this time, they’ll be inside a new, rectangular camera bar with rounded edges.

    In the latest video from “Tech Updates,” host Mike Johnson explains that this camera bar will be much bigger than what we’ve seen in earlier leaks. The cameras will sit on the left side of the bar, and on the right, you’ll find the LED flash, a microphone, and the LiDAR Scanner, all stacked up.

    Johnson also mentioned that the iPhone 17 Pro will have a unique two-tone look, where the camera bar seems darker than the phone’s back panel.

    While it’s not clear if this new design offers any advantages or if it’s just for looks, it certainly changes the phone’s appearance. Johnson claims his information comes from several people who know about the iPhone 17 Pro’s design, and he’s seen the phone himself.

    He suggests that this new camera setup might also appear on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, though he didn’t confirm it. There’s also talk of an “iPhone 17 Lite” model with a similar bar but only one camera. It’s uncertain if this design will make it to the basic iPhone 17, but it would make sense for Apple to keep things uniform across the lineup.

    Other brands like Google have camera bars on their phones too, like the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, but their cameras are lined up horizontally.

    Mike Johnson has been sharing tech news for years and has had both successes and failures with his predictions. He famously revealed details about the AirTag and iPad mini 6 well before they were launched. However, not all his predictions have been spot-on, like the flat-edged Apple Watch Series 7 rumor.

    Recently, Johnson hinted that iOS 19 might bring a new look to the Camera app, inspired by visionOS, with clear and semi-transparent menus. Apple is expected to reveal the iPhone 17 series in September, and we’re likely to hear more about the design before that.

  • TikTok back on Apple’s App Store

    TikTok back on Apple’s App Store

    TikTok is once again available for download on iPhones from the App Store. This update comes after a brief absence, allowing users to reinstall the app and keep it updated. According to Bloomberg, the return of TikTok was prompted by a letter from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, though the details of this letter remain undisclosed.

    Apple had previously taken TikTok off the U.S. App Store on January 18, right before a new law banning the app took effect on January 19.

    This law, known as the Act to Protect Americans from Apps Controlled by Foreign Adversaries, was passed in April 2024. It gave TikTok’s owner, ByteDance, nine months to sell the app to a company outside of China. ByteDance argued that the law was against the U.S. Constitution and free speech rights, but the courts, including the Supreme Court, disagreed.

    President Donald Trump briefly paused the enforcement of this law for 90 days, but Apple didn’t bring TikTok back to the App Store during this period. Apple explained in a notice that they must comply with the laws of the countries they operate in.

    Even though the Department of Justice (DoJ) wasn’t actively enforcing the law, it was still in effect, and Apple likely worried about potential legal issues. However, recent assurances from the DoJ that Apple wouldn’t face repercussions for allowing TikTok downloads seem to have changed their stance.

    Despite being off the App Store for a month, TikTok continued to work for users who already had it installed.

    The Trump administration is now looking to arrange a sale of TikTok to an American company, with Vice President J.D. Vance leading the charge. However, the Chinese government has stated they will not permit the sale, adding complexity to the negotiations, especially with new tariffs on Chinese goods recently announced by Trump.

    Note: Given the political context of this topic, the discussion is hosted in our Political News forum. Everyone can read the thread, but only members with over 100 posts can contribute.

    Source

  • New Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds now in Apple Stores with cool features

    New Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds now in Apple Stores with cool features

    The Powerbeats Pro 2 were introduced by Apple earlier this week, and now they’re available for you to pick up directly from Apple’s retail outlets. These earbuds also started reaching customers who ordered them online.

    Powerbeats Pro 2 Orange

    The Powerbeats Pro 2 come equipped with the same H2 chip found in the AirPods Pro 2, which brings features like Active Noise Cancellation, something the first Powerbeats Pro didn’t have. Another exciting addition is the heart rate monitor built into each earbud. They use LED optical sensors that flash more than 100 times a second to check your heart rate through blood flow. This can connect with apps like Peloton and Nike Run Club, enhancing your workout experience.

    You can find the Powerbeats Pro 2 in various colors like Electric Orange, Hyper Purple, Jet Black, and Quick Sand on Apple’s website. They’re priced at $249 in the U.S., matching the cost of both the AirPods Pro 2 and the original Powerbeats Pro.

    Whether you’re looking to upgrade your workout gear or just want excellent sound quality with noise cancellation, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are now easily accessible at Apple stores.

  • What’s coming up at Apple’s big reveal next week?

    What’s coming up at Apple’s big reveal next week?

    Apple hasn’t released any new gadgets this year, but that might change soon. Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has hinted at something big coming on Wednesday, February 19.

    “Get ready to meet the newest member of the family,” Cook announced on social media, accompanied by a video showing an animated Apple logo in a circle. No further details were shared, leaving us to speculate on what might be unveiled.

    Here’s what could be on the table:

    New Budget iPhone or iPhone 16E

    Rumors are swirling that we might see a new, affordable iPhone SE. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has been quite vocal about it, suggesting that a new iPhone SE with a bigger screen, a USB-C port, and enhanced features might be just around the corner. There’s also talk of this model possibly being called the iPhone 16E, hinting at its integration into the broader iPhone 16 lineup.

    Updated MacBook Air and iPads

    Gurman also mentioned new versions of the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and the basic iPad might be coming, although not necessarily next week. These updates could include new chips like the M4 for the MacBook Air, M3 for the iPad Air, and possibly the A16 or A17 Pro for the iPad, with no major redesigns expected.

    Home Control Center

    While Apple’s smart home hub isn’t slated for mass production until later this year, there’s a chance we could get a sneak peek next week. This device, likened to a HomePod with a screen, might feature a 6 or 7-inch display, an A18 chip, and smart home management capabilities.

    AirTag 2?

    The circular logo in Cook’s teaser has sparked AirTag 2 rumors due to the current AirTag’s round design. However, Gurman remains skeptical about an announcement this soon, suggesting that while a new AirTag is expected this year, it’s unlikely to be the star of next week’s show. Expected upgrades include better anti-stalking features and enhanced tracking with a new Ultra Wideband chip.

    Apple enthusiasts should mark their calendars for next Wednesday to see if these speculations hold true. Stay tuned for what could be an exciting addition to Apple’s product family.

  • New Apple screen with Mini-LEDs coming soon

    New Apple screen with Mini-LEDs coming soon

    Apple is reportedly developing a new 27-inch screen with mini-LED technology, which might hit the market by late 2025. This could be an upgrade from the Studio Display that Apple launched back in 2022. The existing model uses a 5K LED screen, but this new one would switch to mini-LED for better performance.

    According to display expert Ross Young, this screen will use mini-LEDs made by Epistar, with LG Display providing the panels. There was talk back in 2023 about Apple working on something called the Studio Display Pro, which would have had ProMotion technology, but that project seems to have been dropped. While Young once said Apple wasn’t planning another 27-inch screen, another well-known Apple analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo, insists that Apple is indeed planning to release a new display in 2025.

    Apple has already embraced mini-LED technology in its MacBook Pro, where it significantly improves the screen’s brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. The MacBook Pro’s display uses over 10,000 mini-LEDs, which help in displaying darker blacks, more detailed shadows, and brighter highlights.

    Adding to the buzz, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has also heard about this new 27-inch mini-LED display, though he thinks it might not arrive until 2026. This new screen could be a big step up for Apple’s display tech, offering users a much richer viewing experience.

    Source

  • iOS game closes down due to strange purchase problem

    iOS game closes down due to strange purchase problem

    Square Enix has decided to close down the iOS version of “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles” because of a tricky bug linked to in-app buying changes.

    Game No Longer on iPhones

    “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles” is no longer on the App Store for iPhone users, as reported by The Verge.

    Here’s what Square Enix had to say:

    From January 24, 2025, we’ve noticed that players can’t use the extra content they’ve paid for in the iOS version of “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles.” This problem also affects the full version of the game, which lets you explore all the dungeons.

    This trouble comes from some new changes in how in-app purchases work. After looking into it, we found out that we can’t fix this bug completely or apply the new changes. Sadly, this means we have to stop supporting the iOS version of “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles.”

    If you’ve bought things in the game since January, you can get your money back by talking to Apple Support.

    This issue only affects the game on iPhones; you can still play it on other devices.

    Source

  • Apple Event coming up next week

    Apple Event coming up next week

    Next Wednesday, on February 19, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared a hint on social media about an exciting “launch.”

    “Get ready to welcome a new addition to our lineup,” he posted, accompanied by the hashtag #AppleLaunch.

    While Tim didn’t specify when exactly this launch would happen or give any concrete details, the post has sparked curiosity. Tech journalist Mark Gurman from Bloomberg thinks this could be the reveal of a new iPhone SE. He had earlier mentioned that we might see this phone by next week, boasting features like an A18 chip, a bigger 6.1-inch OLED screen, Face ID, a USB-C port, and support for Apple Intelligence.

    Apart from the iPhone, there’s buzz about other gadgets. People are talking about new MacBook Air, iPad Air, and basic iPad models coming out soon. There’s also chatter about new products like an updated AirTag and a fresh smart home hub expected later this year.

    Since Cook’s message feels more like a teaser than an event announcement, any new product news will likely come through press releases on the Apple Newsroom site. But, we might also see announcement videos on YouTube, similar to how Apple introduced new iMacs, Mac minis, and MacBook Pros with M4 chips last October.

    We’ll know more in just six days!

  • Apple faces privacy double standards in Germany

    Apple faces privacy double standards in Germany

    Apple has been under scrutiny in Germany for three years because of its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature. This feature lets iPhone users choose not to have their activities tracked across different apps.

    The German competition authority, Bundeskartellamt, has now shared its initial thoughts, suggesting that Apple’s ATT rules might not be fair. They say that while third-party apps must follow these strict rules, Apple’s own apps do not have to.

    In their latest statement, the Bundeskartellamt pointed out that since ATT was introduced in April 2021, app makers in the iOS App Store need special permission from users to use their data for ads. However, these same strict rules don’t apply to Apple’s apps.

    According to the Bundeskartellamt, this could be against German competition laws for big tech companies and even broader European Union competition rules. They argue that Apple is applying different privacy standards to itself compared to other app developers.

    Apple has now been allowed to reply to these concerns raised by the German authority.

    Interestingly, while ATT was initially seen as a headache for big advertising apps like those from Meta (formerly known as Facebook), it has turned out to be beneficial. Meta has managed to enhance its advertising strategies, using AI to target users more accurately without relying on broad third-party data tracking.

    This situation in Germany highlights ongoing debates about how tech giants manage user data and privacy, setting a precedent for how privacy policies might be enforced in the future.

    Source