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Search results for: “Google home”

  • Google says iOS 26 borrows key Android features

    Google says iOS 26 borrows key Android features

    Apple recently announced iOS 26, and Google has pointed out that some of its new features are very similar to ones Android has had for a while. Here are the three main features that Google says Apple has borrowed:

    1. Improved Call Recording

    Apple is adding call recording to iPhones with iOS 26. This feature lets users record phone calls and even get a summary of the conversation. Google notes that Android phones have offered call recording for years, and some models even provide automatic summaries.

    2. Smarter Messaging with RCS

    iOS 26 will support RCS (Rich Communication Services) in the Messages app. This means iPhone users can now send high-quality photos and videos, see typing indicators, and enjoy better group chats with Android users. Google has supported RCS on Android for a long time, making texting between different phones easier and more modern.

    3. Customizable Home Screen

    Apple is allowing users to place app icons and widgets anywhere on the home screen, not just in a fixed grid. Android users have enjoyed this flexibility for many years, letting them organize their home screens however they like.

    Google commented on social media, welcoming Apple to these features and playfully reminding everyone that Android has had them first. While Apple fans are excited about these changes, it’s clear that iOS 26 is catching up to some things Android users already know and love.

  • Five cool features coming to Apple’s new Homepad

    Five cool features coming to Apple’s new Homepad

    Apple just revealed a new smart home device called HomePad, and it’s packed with exciting features designed to make your home smarter and more connected. Here are five key features you should know about:

    1. Easy setup with iPhone
      Setting up HomePad is super simple. Just bring your iPhone close to it, and it automatically syncs your Apple ID, Wi-Fi settings, and more—just like setting up AirPods or a HomePod.

    2. Works with Matter
      HomePad fully supports Matter, the new smart home standard that works with devices from different brands. This means you can control smart devices from Apple, Google, Amazon, and others—all from the same app.

    3. Multi-display support
      HomePad supports multiple displays at once. So, you can control smart lights from the kitchen while watching a camera feed in the living room. It makes multitasking across rooms easy and smooth.

    4. Hand off FaceTime and calls
      You can start a FaceTime call on your iPhone and then transfer it to the HomePad instantly. It even works with other video calling apps, making your video chats more flexible.

    5. Smart home automation with Siri
      Siri on HomePad helps automate tasks like locking doors at night or turning off lights when you leave home. You can also set up routines that adjust based on time or who’s in the house.

    Apple hasn’t given a release date yet, but these features show they’re aiming to make HomePad a powerful hub for your smart home.

  • Apple could push back Smart Home device launch

    Apple could push back Smart Home device launch

    Apple might not release its new smart home hub as soon as fans hoped. According to recent reports, the company is taking extra time to perfect this gadget, which is meant to control things like lights, thermostats, and locks in your home. The delay could mean waiting until late 2025 or even 2026 for it to hit stores.

    This device is a big deal for Apple because it’s their first shot at a product designed just for smart homes. It’s expected to have a small screen, about six inches, and run on a new system called homeOS. Think of it like a mini command center that works with Siri to make your home smarter. It’ll compete with stuff like Amazon’s Echo Hub and Google’s Nest Hub.

    The holdup seems to be about making sure everything works smoothly. Apple wants the hub to connect easily with other devices and be simple to use. They’re also adding some cool features, like a built-in speaker and support for video calls. But getting all this right takes time, and Apple doesn’t want to rush it.

    For now, people excited about this gadget will have to wait a bit longer. Apple hasn’t said much officially, but the extra effort could mean a better product in the end. Fans are used to waiting for Apple to polish things up—think of how long it took for the Vision Pro headset to arrive.

    So, while the delay might annoy some, it could be worth it if Apple delivers a top-notch smart home hub. Keep an eye out for updates as the company works to make this new device a game-changer for your home.

  • Apple’s Siri struggles and a new Home system on the way

    Apple’s Siri struggles and a new Home system on the way

    Apple fans have been talking a lot about Siri lately, and not in a good way. Even after years of updates, Siri still has trouble keeping up with other smart assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. A recent report points out that Siri often messes up simple tasks—like setting reminders or answering basic questions. People say it feels slow and clumsy compared to its rivals.

    Apple has been working on making Siri better, but the changes haven’t impressed users yet. Many hope a big upgrade is coming soon, maybe with smarter features powered by artificial intelligence. For now, though, Siri’s flaws are hard to ignore, and it’s leaving some Apple fans frustrated.

    On a brighter note, Apple has exciting plans for something new—a system called “HomeOS.” Rumors suggest it’s launching this year, and it could shake things up for Apple’s smart home gadgets. HomeOS might be a fresh way to control devices like the HomePod, Apple TV, and even smart lights or locks.

    Think of it as a central hub that ties everything together, making your home tech easier to use. Reports hint that it’ll work smoothly with your iPhone, iPad, and Mac, so you can manage your home from anywhere. There’s also talk of a new touchscreen device to go with it—something like a smart display to show info or play music.

    While Siri’s struggles are a letdown, HomeOS could be a game-changer. Apple wants to catch up in the smart home world, where companies like Amazon and Google are already big players. If HomeOS delivers, it might give Apple fans something to cheer about. For now, everyone’s waiting to see if it lives up to the hype—and if Siri can finally step up its game too. With these updates, 2025 could be a big year for Apple’s tech lineup!

  • Apple to update Home app and expand Apple Pay in UAE and Qatar

    Apple to update Home app and expand Apple Pay in UAE and Qatar

    Apple is making some big changes soon. They’re updating the Home app for HomeKit devices and bringing Apple Pay to more banks in the UAE and Qatar. Here’s what’s happening in simple terms.

    Home App Gets a Must-Do Upgrade

    Back when iOS 16 came out, Apple rolled out a new setup for the Home app to make smart home devices work better. Until now, switching to this new setup was up to users, but that’s about to change. Apple will soon make everyone upgrade to the new HomeKit system.

    Hints found in the iOS 18.4 beta 3 update, shared with developers recently, show that the old HomeKit setup won’t work anymore. A message in the app says the old version will stop soon, urging users to update to keep their smart devices running smoothly. Apple says this new setup is faster and more dependable. It first showed up in iOS 16.2 beta but had issues, so Apple paused it. They brought it back with iOS 16.4 in February 2023.

    The catch? If you upgrade, older iOS or macOS devices can’t use the Home app anymore. Some people avoided updating for this reason, but soon, everyone will need to switch to keep using their HomeKit gadgets. No exact date is set, but it might tie into iOS 19. The iOS 18.4 update, expected in early April, will also add more languages to Apple Intelligence.

    Apple Pay Grows in UAE and Qatar

    Apple Pay is already in the UAE and Qatar, but more people will soon get to use it. Apple is teaming up with local card networks—Jaywan in the UAE and Himyan in Qatar—to let their customers pay with iPhone or Apple Watch.

    Code in iOS 18.4 beta 3 shows this is in the works. Jaywan has shared plans to boost digital payments in the UAE, including support for Apple Pay and Google Pay. They’ve also partnered with big names like Visa and Mastercard and even Samsung for its wallet app. Himyan’s been quiet, but support seems likely. With Apple Pay, users can add cards to the Wallet app for easy, contactless payments in stores or online. This should roll out around April when iOS 18.4 goes live. These updates mean better control of your smart home and easier payments in more places!

  • Abode’s new Apple TV app makes home security simple

    Abode’s new Apple TV app makes home security simple

    Abode, a company known for its easy-to-use smart home security system that works with Apple’s HomeKit, just rolled out a fresh app for Apple TV. This brings all their security tools and smart home controls right to your TV screen. I’ve been using Abode’s setup for over four years and really love what they offer.

    With this new app, Abode users can turn their security system on or off, watch live video from up to four Abode cameras, and look back at saved clips—all without leaving the sofa. The app’s look and feel match the one on your iPhone, so it’s super simple to use and manage your gadgets without digging for your phone.

    One cool perk comes with Abode’s 24/7 recording option. If you’ve got it turned on, you can scroll through hours of video or skip to important moments right on your Apple TV. So, if a motion alert pops up during your favorite show, you can check it out instantly—no iPhone needed. Plus, if you use Abode CUE for smart home tricks, you can tweak certain devices straight from the app’s main screen.

    As an Abode user myself, I love how this app lets you check your security from almost any device—iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and now your TV. The design stays the same across all these, which keeps things familiar. The Apple TV app store doesn’t get many new apps beyond streaming ones, so it’s exciting to see Abode step up with something fresh.

    Abode plays nicely with HomeKit too. You can control the system through Apple’s Home app, but the real win is how Abode’s sensors—like ones for doors, windows, or motion—work as HomeKit devices. This lets you add them to HomeKit scenes and automations for extra convenience. Want to know more? Check out Abode’s blog about their new Apple TV app (and an updated Google TV one too), or grab an Abode starter kit on Amazon.

  • Apple’s new ‘Smart Hub’ could be the home control center we’ve waited for

    Apple’s new ‘Smart Hub’ could be the home control center we’ve waited for

    Apple is rolling out three new home devices this year, and the first one is particularly thrilling. I’m dubbing it the ‘Smart Hub’, and it promises to fill a crucial gap in Apple’s smart home setup.

    Apple Home Gets Its First Real Control Center

    Apple has always backed the idea of a ‘home hub’ with its gadgets. According to their support documents, you could use a HomePod, HomePod mini, Apple TV, or an iPad as your ‘home hub.’ But what does that mean? It just allows you to manage your smart devices from afar, set up automation, and gain a few connectivity perks.

    However, this new Smart Hub will redefine what a ‘home hub’ means by acting as the main control center for your smart home gadgets.

    A New Era for Apple’s Home App

    The original HomePod aimed to be this kind of device, but its reliance on Siri for control has been a limitation. Siri’s performance can be hit or miss, and relying solely on voice commands isn’t ideal for everyone.

    Enter the Smart Hub. This device will not only let you use Siri but also gives you a touch screen to interact with all your smart home gadgets directly. While you can already control your home with various Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches, none of these are dedicated solely to home control.

    Making Smart Home Control Easy for Everyone

    The Smart Hub will come with a 7-inch square screen, perfect for placing on your kitchen counter, attaching to your fridge, or setting on a console table. It’s designed specifically for managing your smart home, running an operating system tailored for this purpose.

    While some people are comfortable using just Siri for home control, many, especially those less tech-savvy, will appreciate having a physical, visible way to manage their devices. If Apple prices the Smart Hub reasonably, you could have several around your home, providing easy access to your smart home controls wherever you are.

    A Long-Awaited Feature for Apple Home Users

    While Amazon and Google have offered display-equipped home hubs for a while, Apple users have been missing this feature. The Smart Hub might just be the answer they’ve been looking for, bringing a new level of convenience and interaction to Apple’s smart home ecosystem.

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  • Apple buys another office space and faces App Store issue in Germany

    Apple buys another office space and faces App Store issue in Germany

    Apple Purchases New Office Campus

    Apple recently bought Mathilda Commons, another office complex in Sunnyvale, California, for $350 million. This purchase comes shortly after Apple spent $166.9 million on the Cupertino Gate office complex. Together, these deals show Apple’s commitment to expanding its presence in the South Bay area, with over half a billion dollars invested in real estate this week.

    The Mathilda Commons, located just seven miles from Apple Park, includes two buildings with 382,500 square feet of space, enough for up to 1,900 workers. Apple paid about 20% more than the property’s value in January, highlighting its importance. Kristina Raspe, Apple’s Vice President of Global Real Estate, said, “The Santa Clara Valley has been Apple’s home for over 40 years, and we’re excited to keep investing in great spaces for our teams.”

    Germany Requests Removal of DeepSeek App

    Due to privacy concerns, Germany has asked Apple and Google to remove the DeepSeek AI app from their app stores. Berlin’s data protection commissioner, Meike Kamp, stated that DeepSeek illegally sends user data, like prompts and files, to servers in China, where the government can access it.

    DeepSeek failed to prove it protects German users’ data to EU standards. This follows similar bans in Italy and the Netherlands. Kamp urged Apple and Google to review the app quickly, though no deadline was set. Google is currently looking into the request. This issue adds to growing global concerns about DeepSeek’s data practices.

  • Apple’s exciting 2027 lineup

    Apple’s exciting 2027 lineup

    Apple has big ideas for 2027, but with no major design updates in sight, some fans are growing restless. The tech giant is crafting a tabletop robot, a fresh device that could transform how we use technology at home. They’re also planning a special iPhone to mark its 20th anniversary, featuring a sleek, full-screen design with a camera tucked beneath the display. Building these iPhones will be tricky, so Apple will likely rely on Chinese factories rather than Indian ones.

    Apple is also dreaming up AirPods and Apple Watches with cameras. These won’t just snap photos—they’ll use AI to analyze your surroundings, powered by new chips called “Nevis” for the Watch and “Glennie” for AirPods, both slated for 2027. On top of that, Apple is working on a foldable iPhone and smart glasses to rival competitors.

    For software, iOS 19 will bring a travel-friendly feature that lets your Apple devices share hotel Wi-Fi info seamlessly. Meanwhile, Apple is looking beyond Google, experimenting with AI-driven search tools for Safari to give users a smarter browsing experience. These bold plans highlight Apple’s drive to lead the tech world, though 2027 feels like a distant wait for eager users.

  • New iPad Pro with M5 chip and Gemini widgets for iPhone

    New iPad Pro with M5 chip and Gemini widgets for iPhone

    Apple’s upcoming iPad Pro with the M5 chip, expected in fall 2025, promises a big upgrade. Last year, Apple surprised many by putting the M4 chip in the iPad Pro before Macs, which upset some Mac users who waited months for M4 MacBooks. This time, Apple plans to launch the M5 chip in MacBook Pros first, giving iPad Pro users a more powerful device later.

    The M5 iPad Pro should keep the same starting prices—$999 for the 11-inch and $1,299 for the 13-inch—despite possible chip tariff issues. This shift back to Macs debuting new chips first feels like a return to Apple’s usual strategy, making the iPad Pro a solid upgrade choice.

    Meanwhile, Google’s Gemini app for iPhone now offers handy home screen widgets. These include a square widget with four icons to open the app, use the microphone, take photos, or start Gemini Live. There’s also a rectangular widget with a search bar and options to upload files or access your gallery.

    Styled like the Google Search app, these widgets make Gemini quick to use. However, some users still want a version optimized for iPads, as Android tablets already have one. The update, version 1.2025.1662203, is rolling out now, bringing iPhone users faster access to Gemini’s AI features. This combination of Apple’s M5 iPad Pro and Google’s Gemini widgets shows how both companies are improving their devices to stay competitive and user-friendly.

    Source/Via

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