Search results for: “Android 11”

Connect your iPhone to Windows 11 Start Menu

Microsoft has made a new update for Windows 11 that now lets iPhone users connect their phones right from the Start menu. This update brings similar features that were previously only available for Android phones.

With this update, you can check your iPhone’s battery level, see if it’s connected to the internet, and look at your recent activities all from your Windows computer. You can also manage your messages and calls, plus share files, without switching between devices.

Getting started is easy. Just click on the Start menu, find the “iPhone” option on the side, and follow the simple steps on your screen to link your iPhone with your PC.

This feature is currently being introduced to users in the Windows Insider program, specifically those in the Dev and Beta testing groups. To use these new tools, you’ll need to have Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 4805 or higher if you’re in the Beta group, or Build 26120.3000 or higher if you’re in the Dev group. Make sure your Phone Link app is updated to version 1.24121.30.0 or later, and your PC supports Bluetooth Low Energy.

However, not everyone can use this feature right away. It’s not available if you’re using the Education or Pro Education versions of Windows 11. Microsoft is rolling this out gradually, so keep an eye out for when it comes to your system.

Source

January 30, 2025
Apple fixes a tricky security problem

Many people believe Apple devices are super safe compared to Android ones. They think this because Apple doesn’t let you install apps from outside its store or tweak things too much. But that’s not the full story. Recently, Apple released an update for iPhones and iPads, bumping them to version 18.3.2. This isn’t about cool new tricks—it’s a fix for a sneaky security issue that could’ve let hackers target some users.

What Was the Problem?

Apple explained that the trouble came from harmful web stuff sneaking out of a safe zone called the Web Content sandbox. They first tackled this in iOS 17.2, but the new update adds extra protection. Apple says some clever attackers might’ve used this gap in a “super tricky attack” aimed at specific people running older iOS versions before 17.2.

Apple usually stays quiet about these weak spots until they’re fixed. So, we don’t know how long this issue has been around or how many people it has hit. The attack seems to have been aimed at certain individuals, not everyone. Even so, it’s smart to keep your device updated, whether you think you’re a target or not.

Get the Update Now

The iOS 18.3.2 and iPadOS 18.3.2 fix is ready for devices like the iPhone XS and newer, plus several iPads: iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation onward), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation onward), iPad Air (3rd generation onward), iPad (7th generation onward), and iPad mini (5th generation onward).

If you haven’t updated yet, do it soon. Hackers are always hunting for weak points to sneak in. Apple works fast to plug these holes, but updating your device is the best way to stay safe. To grab the update, go to Settings > General > Software Update and look for the latest version. You probably won’t see big changes after installing it, but this fix quietly keeps your device and info protected from harm.

March 12, 2025
Apple’s request to join Google lawsuit denied again

Apple is trying hard to protect its big money deal with Google as Google faces legal action for breaking antitrust rules, but the court isn’t helping. Recently, Apple asked for an urgent pause in the case to join in, but the judge said no and decided to keep the case moving forward.

Google Logo Feature Slack

Back in November, Apple wanted a bigger say in how the case would proceed, arguing that Google shouldn’t keep breaking the law. The court turned them down, so Apple appealed, but appeals take time. While waiting, Apple asked for the case to stop, but the judge didn’t agree.

The court believes Apple hasn’t shown it would be badly hurt without this pause, nor has it clearly stated why it needs to be more involved or what new information it could add. The judge also feels that there’s no clear error in the first decision to keep Apple out of the lawsuit. Plus, it’s important to keep moving to stop Google from continuing these illegal actions.

The court’s ruling pointed out that this case has been going on for over four years now, and any delay would be significant. Moreover, the court found that Google broke the law by making deals with companies like Apple to keep its monopoly in search and ad markets. Allowing Apple’s request for a pause would just let this illegal activity go on, which isn’t good for the public.

Last year, Google was found guilty of these antitrust violations, with its deal with Apple being a key issue. Google gives Apple billions yearly to be the default search in Safari, and this was deemed illegal. The U.S. government wants to stop Google from making such deals with Apple and others. If Google can’t continue these agreements, Apple could lose billions, yet would still need to offer Google as a search option.

Google might also face tougher penalties like selling Chrome or separating Android from services like Google Search and the Google Play Store. Apple worries that Google will focus on protecting these assets over their search deal, which is why Apple wants to intervene.

In their filing for a pause, Apple argued, “If we can’t resolve our appeal before or during the remedies trial, we might just have to watch as the government pushes for harsh changes that could stop us from working with Google for ten years.”

Apple is now pushing to speed up its appeal to join the lawsuit against Google, with the next phase of the case due to start in April. If they can speed things up, their appeal might be heard before then.

Source

February 4, 2025
Microsoft Defender VPN for Mac and iPhone to end service soon

If you’re a Mac or iPhone user with a Microsoft 365 subscription, there’s some news you should know. Microsoft has announced that the Defender VPN service will stop working at the end of February 2025. According to a support document from Microsoft, they haven’t given a clear reason, but it looks like not many people were using this feature.

The document states, “The privacy protection (VPN) feature within Defender will no longer be available after February 28, 2025. We regularly check how our features are used and how well they work. We’ve decided to stop this feature to focus on new areas that will better meet what our customers need.” This change was first noticed by the site Windows Latest.

For those who don’t know, Microsoft Defender VPN was not widely known because it was only available to Microsoft 365 subscribers in the United Kingdom, the United States, and some US territories. It didn’t expand to other countries.

Although it provided some privacy protection, it wasn’t helpful for those wanting to access content from different countries, like watching videos not available in their region. This is because, unlike other VPNs like NordVPN, you couldn’t pick which server to connect to; it automatically chose one near your location.

Source

February 3, 2025
New Powerbeats Pro 2 Coming Soon: What to expect

Apple is set to reveal the Powerbeats Pro 2 on February 11, according to reports. These new earbuds will hit the market for $250 in the U.S.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 are designed for those who love fitness, offering a more secure fit with adjustable ear hooks, just like their predecessor. They’re expected to include the same H2 chip found in the AirPods Pro 2, which should make their noise cancellation better than before.

In a sneak peek last year, baseball star Shohei Ohtani was seen sporting the Powerbeats Pro 2, showing off a sleeker and more vertical design compared to the original Powerbeats Pro, which was introduced back in 2019 but is no longer available.

One of the exciting new features is the ability to monitor your heart rate while exercising. You’ll be able to link these earbuds to gym machines, like a treadmill, to keep an eye on your heart rate, with the info showing up in the iPhone’s Health app.

We’ve also learned that the Powerbeats Pro 2 will come in fresh colors, with Electric Orange being one of them. This was confirmed by Mark Gurman in his latest newsletter.

Looking at what Beats has been doing lately, we can expect the Powerbeats Pro 2 to have better sound, last longer on a single charge, and work more smoothly with Android devices, including features like finding lost earbuds. Plus, they’ll likely switch to a USB-C port for charging.

Get ready for these new earbuds to hit the market soon with their blend of style, performance, and health features tailored for an active lifestyle.

Source

February 2, 2025
Cooling Down and Slimming Up: The future of the iPhone

The smartphone world is a constant race for innovation, with manufacturers continually pushing the boundaries of performance and design. In recent years, a key area of focus has been thermal management, ensuring devices can handle increasingly powerful processors without overheating. While Android manufacturers have embraced vapor chamber cooling for some time, Apple has traditionally relied on heat sinks. However, rumors suggest this is about to change with the upcoming iPhone 17 series.

Recent reports from sources in China indicate that Apple plans to incorporate vapor chamber (VC) technology into all models of the iPhone 17 family, including both the Pro and non-Pro versions. This move marks a significant shift in Apple’s approach to cooling. Vapor chambers are sophisticated cooling systems that utilize the principles of evaporation and condensation.

They consist of a sealed metal enclosure containing a small amount of liquid, typically de-ionized water. When the chipset generates heat, this liquid evaporates, absorbing the heat in the process. The vapor then travels to a cooler part of the chamber, condensing back into liquid, releasing the heat. This cycle effectively spreads the heat across the surface of the chamber, allowing for more efficient cooling.

This news contradicts earlier speculation from prominent Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who initially suggested that only the top-tier iPhone 17 Pro Max would feature a VC cooling system. The inclusion of VCs across the entire iPhone 17 lineup suggests Apple is prioritizing thermal performance across the board. Furthermore, rumors also point to the non-Pro iPhone 17 models finally receiving high-refresh-rate displays, though whether these will be 90Hz or 120Hz remains to be seen.

Beyond cooling enhancements, Apple appears to be planning a major design overhaul for 2025 by introducing the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air. This model has generated significant buzz, with rumors hinting at a design reminiscent of the classic MacBook Air.

The iPhone 17 Air has been a subject of much speculation, with early rumors referring to it as the “iPhone Slim.” The key feature that has captured everyone’s attention is its expected thinness. Initial reports suggested a thickness of around 6.25mm, roughly 25% thinner than the Pro models. However, more recent information from Ming-Chi Kuo indicates that the 17 Air could be even thinner, reaching a mere 5.5mm at its thinnest point.

This revelation has sparked considerable discussion, particularly the phrasing “thinnest part.” This suggests Apple might be considering a tapered design, similar to the iconic wedge shape of the original MacBook Air. This design approach would allow the device to be incredibly thin at certain points while maintaining a more practical thickness in other areas.

The tapered design of the classic MacBook Air was a defining feature, beloved by many for its sleek aesthetics and comfortable ergonomics. It instantly distinguished the MacBook Air from other laptops and symbolized Apple’s design prowess. Replicating this design language in the iPhone 17 Air would not only be a nostalgic callback to Apple’s history but could also offer significant practical benefits.

One of the primary concerns with larger smartphones is one-handed usability. While larger screens offer a more immersive viewing experience, they can be challenging to handle with one hand. This is a common reason why some users prefer smaller devices. The iPhone 17 Air, with its rumored 6.6-inch display, sits between the 6.3-inch iPhone 17 Pro and the 6.9-inch iPhone 17 Pro Max. This size could be ideal for many users, offering a larger screen without the unwieldiness of the Pro Max.

The tapered design could play a crucial role in enhancing one-handed usability. By making the bottom portion of the device, where the hand naturally rests, the thinnest part, Apple could effectively mitigate the challenges associated with a larger screen. This would allow users to enjoy the benefits of a larger display without sacrificing comfortable one-handed operation.

In essence, the iPhone 17 Air could offer a compelling combination of a larger, more immersive display and comfortable one-handed use, thanks to its innovative design. This could be a game-changer for users who have been hesitant to embrace larger smartphones due to concerns about ergonomics.

If Apple can successfully implement this design, the iPhone 17 Air could become a highly sought-after device, potentially even attracting users away from the Pro line. The combination of improved cooling with vapor chambers across the lineup, and the potential for a groundbreaking, nostalgic design with the iPhone 17 Air, paints an exciting picture for the future of Apple’s smartphones.

January 18, 2025
Apple’s 2025 Product Roadmap: A deep dive into HomePod’s display and iPhone 17’s cooling revolution

The tech world is abuzz with whispers and rumors surrounding Apple’s upcoming product releases, particularly the anticipated HomePod refresh and the highly anticipated iPhone 17 series. Let’s delve into the latest insights gleaned from supply chain rumblings and industry analysts, painting a clearer picture of what we might expect from Apple in the near future.

A New Era for Home Audio: The HomePod with a Screen Takes Shape

For years, rumors have circulated about a HomePod with an integrated display, transforming it from a mere smart speaker into a central hub for the connected home. Recent reports suggest this vision is finally nearing reality. Sources within the supply chain indicate that Apple is gearing up for the launch of a redesigned HomePod, potentially dubbed a “Command Center,” featuring a 7-inch LCD screen.

This shift marks a significant evolution for the HomePod, potentially opening up a wealth of new functionalities. Imagine video calls directly from your HomePod, visual control of smart home devices, or even displaying recipes while cooking. The possibilities are vast.

Interestingly, reports point to Tianma Microelectronics, a Chinese display manufacturer, as the exclusive supplier of these 7-inch LCD panels. This is a notable departure from Apple’s usual reliance on established display giants like Samsung Display, LG Display, and BOE. The reported low cost of these panels—around $10 each—suggests Apple may be aiming for a more competitive price point for this new HomePod model.

Further supply chain details reveal that Radiant Optoelectronics, a Taiwanese company, will handle the backlight module production, while assembly will be entrusted to BYD, a prominent Chinese manufacturer. This intricate web of suppliers highlights the complex logistics involved in bringing a new product to market.

While initial rumors suggested a launch in early 2024, the HomePod with a display has reportedly faced several delays. Initially pushed to late 2024, the current whispers point towards a potential release in the second half of 2025. This delay could be attributed to various factors, including supply chain constraints, software development, or Apple’s strategic product release schedule.

Keeping it Cool: The iPhone 17’s Thermal Overhaul

Moving on to the iPhone, the rumor mill is churning with details about the iPhone 17 lineup, specifically focusing on a significant upgrade to its thermal management system. According to recent reports, Apple is poised to implement vapor chamber technology across the entire iPhone 17 range, including the standard iPhone 17, the rumored “Air” model, the iPhone 17 Pro, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Vapor chamber technology is a well-established method for dissipating heat in high-performance devices. It works by utilizing a sealed chamber containing a fluid that vaporizes when heated, transferring heat away from the source and distributing it across a larger area. This prevents localized hotspots and helps maintain consistent performance, especially during demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

While the iPhone 16 Pro addressed some of the thermal concerns that surfaced with the iPhone 15 Pro through an improved internal structure, reports suggest that further improvements are needed to handle increasingly powerful processors and demanding applications. The introduction of vapor chambers is expected to provide a substantial boost to thermal performance, ensuring consistent performance even under heavy load.

This move aligns with the trend seen in many high-end Android smartphones, which have already adopted vapor chamber technology. It signifies Apple’s commitment to pushing the performance envelope while maintaining a sleek and compact design.

It’s worth noting that conflicting reports have emerged regarding the extent of this thermal upgrade. Last year, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that only the iPhone 17 Pro Max would feature a combined vapor chamber and graphene sheet cooling system, while other models would rely solely on graphene sheets. The latest reports, however, indicate a broader adoption of vapor chamber technology across the entire lineup. This discrepancy highlights the fluid nature of pre-release information and the importance of taking all rumors with a grain of salt.

Looking Ahead: Apple’s Vision for the Future

These insights into the upcoming HomePod and iPhone 17 provide a glimpse into Apple’s product strategy for the coming years. The HomePod’s transformation into a smart home hub with a display suggests a deeper integration into our daily lives, while the iPhone 17’s thermal enhancements underscore Apple’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge performance. As we move closer to their anticipated release dates, we can expect more details to emerge, further clarifying Apple’s vision for the future of technology.

January 17, 2025
Apple Watch expands sleep apnea detection as iPhone eyes under-display Face ID

The world of wearable tech and smartphones is constantly evolving, with Apple at the forefront of innovation. Recent developments point towards expanded health features for the Apple Watch and a potential major design shift for the iPhone. Let’s delve into these exciting updates.

Apple Watch Tackles Sleep Apnea on a Global Scale

The Apple Watch is becoming more than just a timepiece; it’s evolving into a powerful health monitoring tool. Apple has been diligently working to expand the availability of its sleep apnea detection feature, recently securing approval for its launch in Malaysia, as reported by local sources. This follows closely on the heels of its release in Brazil, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to a global rollout. This feature has already reached over 150 countries and territories as of last September.

Sleep apnea, a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, can have serious health implications if left untreated. The Apple Watch, specifically the Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models running watchOS 11, utilizes its built-in accelerometer to detect subtle movements during sleep. These movements, indicative of potential breathing disturbances, are then analyzed by sophisticated algorithms. If consistent patterns suggesting moderate to severe sleep apnea are detected, the user receives a notification.

Apple emphasizes the rigorous development process behind this feature, highlighting the use of advanced machine learning techniques and a vast dataset of clinical-grade sleep apnea tests. The feature underwent validation through a clinical study, further solidifying its reliability. It’s important to note that this feature is intended for adults without a prior diagnosis of sleep apnea and should not be considered a replacement for professional medical assessment.

The Health app on the iPhone provides a detailed log of nightly breathing disturbances, classifying each instance as either “elevated” or “not elevated,” allowing users to track potential trends and share the information with their healthcare providers. This data-driven approach empowers users to take a proactive role in monitoring their sleep health.

The Future of iPhone Design: Under-Screen Face ID on the Horizon

Beyond the realm of wearables, significant changes are anticipated for the iPhone’s design. The long-awaited arrival of under-screen Face ID is generating considerable buzz. Industry analysts have been closely tracking developments in this area, providing valuable insights into Apple’s plans.

Initially, projections suggested that iPhone 17 Pro models would be the first to adopt under-display Face ID. However, recent information indicates a potential delay, pushing the anticipated release to 2026. This means we could see this groundbreaking technology debut on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.

Even with under-screen Face ID, the iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to retain a small pinhole for the front-facing camera, similar to current Android devices from manufacturers like Google and Samsung. This approach allows for a near bezel-less display while still accommodating essential camera functionality. The fate of the Dynamic Island, the interactive area that currently houses the Face ID sensors on newer iPhones, remains uncertain. It’s unclear whether this feature will be retained, adapted, or phased out entirely with the introduction of under-screen Face ID.

Looking further ahead, analysts speculate that Apple’s ultimate goal is to achieve a truly uninterrupted, all-screen design, incorporating both Face ID and the front camera beneath the display. This would represent a major leap forward in smartphone aesthetics and user experience.

These developments in both the Apple Watch and iPhone ecosystems illustrate Apple’s ongoing commitment to innovation. From enhancing health monitoring capabilities to reimagining smartphone design, Apple continues to push the boundaries of technology, shaping the future of personal devices. The integration of advanced technologies like machine learning and the pursuit of seamless designs point towards a future where technology seamlessly integrates into our lives, enhancing our well-being and simplifying our interactions with the digital world.

January 10, 2025
Wildfires rage in LA as evacuation alert triggers panic, Apple offers relief to affected Apple Card holders
California has been battling wildfires for some time now, and officials have relied heavily on emergency alerts to keep residents informed. However, a technical glitch caused a major scare on Thursday evening when a county-wide evacuation alert went out to all iPhones and Android devices in Los Angeles, even though it was only intended for a specific area.

The erroneous alert created mass confusion on social media as residents questioned the legitimacy of the order. Thankfully, corrected messages followed within minutes, but the incident highlights the potential for panic with such systems. This isn’t the first time either, as a similar false ballistic missile alert caused widespread fear in Hawaii back in 2018.

While the fire situation remains critical, with reports of at least five fatalities and thousands displaced, there’s also a beacon of hope. Apple CEO Tim Cook announced a donation to support victims and recovery efforts, and Apple Card users affected by the wildfires can now breathe a sigh of relief.

Apple and Goldman Sachs are offering temporary assistance to Apple Card holders living in disaster zones declared by FEMA. This program allows them to skip their next monthly payment without incurring any interest charges. Additionally, accounts in good standing will remain current while enrolled, and past due accounts won’t accrue further late fees during this period.

To access this program, impacted Apple Card users can simply contact Apple Card Support through the Messages app on their iPhones. Here’s a quick guide:
1. Open the Wallet app and tap on your Apple Card.
2. Select the “More” button followed by “Account Details.”
3. Tap the “Message” button and enter a message like “I would like to learn more about payment assistance plan options.”
This program offers some financial relief for those struggling amidst the devastation, allowing them to focus on rebuilding their lives. The fires may be raging, but the combined efforts of firefighters, first responders, and companies like Apple demonstrate the unwavering spirit of support and hope during these challenging times.
January 10, 2025
Apple Refines its Ecosystem: Beta updates signal upcoming enhancements

The tech world is abuzz with Apple’s latest move: the release of second beta versions for a suite of its operating systems. This signals a continued commitment to refining user experience and introducing subtle yet impactful changes across the Apple ecosystem. Let’s delve into what these updates entail.

macOS Sequoia 15.3: A Touch of AI Magic Comes to the Mac

macOS Sequoia 15.3 is shaping up to be a notable update, particularly for Mac users eager to embrace Apple’s advancements in artificial intelligence. The most exciting addition is undoubtedly Genmoji, a feature previously exclusive to iPhone and iPad. This innovative tool empowers users to create personalized emoji using simple text prompts, much like the functionality found in Image Playground. Imagine typing “a smiling cat wearing a top hat” and instantly generating a unique emoji representing that description.

These custom-created Genmoji function seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem. On devices running the latest operating systems (iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 and later), they behave just like standard emoji. However, for users on older operating systems or even Android devices, Genmoji are sent as images, ensuring compatibility across platforms. The integration is smooth, with Genmoji accessible directly from the standard emoji interface. Importantly, the image generation process occurs directly on the device, enhancing privacy and speed.

This feature isn’t universally available across all Macs, however. Genmoji and other Apple Intelligence features are specifically designed to leverage the power of Apple’s silicon chips, meaning only Macs equipped with this technology will be able to take full advantage. This focus on leveraging custom hardware for AI tasks is a trend we’re seeing more and more from Apple.

iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3: Fine-Tuning and Future Focus

The second betas of iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3 have also been released, continuing the cycle of refinement and improvement. While these updates don’t introduce any groundbreaking new Apple Intelligence features themselves, they lay the groundwork for future enhancements. The focus here appears to be on bug fixes, performance optimization, and subtle software refinements, ensuring a smoother and more stable user experience.

One area of anticipated improvement is HomeKit integration. There’s strong indication that these updates will bring support for robot vacuums within the Home app, expanding the smart home ecosystem controlled through Apple devices. Although not visibly present in the first beta, the possibility remains for this functionality to be fully realized in the final release.

It’s expected that more significant Apple Intelligence-driven Siri features will arrive in later updates, likely with iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4. These incremental updates allow Apple to roll out changes in a measured way, ensuring stability and allowing developers time to adapt.

watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, and visionOS 2.3: Expanding the Connected Experience

Apple has also seeded second betas for watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, and visionOS 2.3. These updates, while not packed with immediately visible features, contribute to a more cohesive and interconnected experience across Apple’s diverse product range.

Similar to iOS and iPadOS, these updates are expected to bring support for robot vacuums within HomeKit, ensuring consistency across all platforms. This means users will be able to control their robotic cleaning devices directly from their Apple Watch, Apple TV, and even through visionOS.

Interestingly, there’s been a change regarding previously announced features for tvOS 18.3. The planned new TV and Movies and Soundscapes screen savers, initially unveiled in June, appear to have been removed from the current beta build. This suggests a potential delay or even cancellation of these features, though it’s always possible they could reappear in a future update. Additionally, a new notice about digital movie and TV show sales is expected to be included in tvOS 18.3, likely related to regulatory or legal requirements.

Looking Ahead: A Coordinated Release

All these beta updates point towards a coordinated release strategy. It is anticipated that macOS Sequoia 15.3, alongside iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, and visionOS 2.3, will be officially launched in the coming weeks, likely towards the end of January. This synchronized release will ensure a consistent experience across the Apple ecosystem, allowing users to seamlessly transition between their various devices and benefit from the latest improvements.

In conclusion, these beta updates from Apple represent more than just bug fixes and minor tweaks. They demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement, a focus on expanding the reach of Apple Intelligence, and a desire to create a more integrated and user-friendly experience across the entire Apple ecosystem. While some features may shift or change during the beta process, the overall direction is clear: Apple is continually refining its software to better serve its users.

January 8, 2025

More posts