Search results for: “Satellite”

  • iPhone satellite feature saves climber and Safari preview gets update

    iPhone satellite feature saves climber and Safari preview gets update

    A 53-year-old climber was rescued from Snowmass Mountain in Colorado thanks to the iPhone’s satellite texting feature. Stranded above 10,000 feet with a wrist injury from sliding down the snowy slope, he couldn’t walk or get a cell signal. He texted a family member using his iPhone 14 or newer, who alerted the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office and Mountain Rescue Aspen.

    Seventeen rescuers reached him at Snowmass Lake, about eight miles from the parking area, starting at 8:25 a.m. and safely evacuating him by 5:30 p.m. The sheriff’s office praised the satellite feature, urging adventurers to carry emergency devices and learn how to use them.

    This feature, available on iPhone 14 and later, also includes Emergency SOS for contacting help without cell service. Meanwhile, Apple released Safari Technology Preview 222, an experimental browser update for testing new features. It includes fixes for accessibility, design, media, rendering, scrolling, and web functions.

    Compatible with macOS Sequoia and the upcoming macOS Tahoe, it’s available via Software Update for those who download it from Apple’s website. Aimed at developers but open to all, it helps Apple improve Safari by gathering user feedback. Full details are on the Safari Technology Preview website.

  • Apple’s satellite plans face trouble after turning down Elon Musk’s offer

    Apple’s satellite plans face trouble after turning down Elon Musk’s offer

    Apple has run into difficulties in coding its satellite network. Recent news suggests Apple turned down an offer from SpaceX, meaning they would not have SpaceX’s help with their new satellite system. Apple has not yet specified how it plans to link iPhones and other devices directly with satellites.

    Apple has spent years researching a way for its devices to work with the internet without going through cell towers. The objective was to use satellites for remote coverage where regular network services fail. Because SpaceX’s Starlink network for satellites is a leader in the field, it offered to help Apple with its technology.

    Yet, Apple decided they weren’t interested in a partnership with SpaceX. The company decided that managing its satellite project by itself would keep the project secure. It seems that Apple made a risky choice, which can make it less competitive. Apple is finding out just how expensive and complicated it is to start a new satellite network and this has resulted in delays and stumbling blocks.

    Because companies like SpaceX are taking the lead, Apple may not be able to keep up in the market for worldwide satellite internet. If things do not change quickly, Apple’s plans for satellite-powered iPhones may be in trouble.

  • SpaceX attempts to stop Apple’s Satellite Messaging growth and Apple Watch health updates

    SpaceX attempts to stop Apple’s Satellite Messaging growth and Apple Watch health updates

    A recent report reveals that SpaceX is trying to halt Apple’s plans to expand its iPhone satellite messaging feature. According to The Wall Street Journal, SpaceX is pushing the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) to step in and block Apple’s efforts.

    The two companies are fighting over limited radio waves needed for their services. Apple uses these waves to let iPhone users send emergency texts in areas without cell service, a feature that started with the iPhone 14 in 2022 and has since grown to include roadside help and personal messaging.

    SpaceX, however, wants the same waves for its Starlink internet service. With Elon Musk’s ties to the White House and the FCC’s new chairman, SpaceX might have an edge in this clash. Meanwhile, Apple is working on big health upgrades for the Apple Watch, but one key feature is still far off.

    Reports say that non-invasive glucose monitoring—tracking blood sugar without needles—is “many years away” from being ready. Even though Apple is pushing hard to develop this tech, it’s not close to launching. This delay disappoints some fans hoping for a game-changing health tool soon. For now, Apple’s satellite messaging battle and its Watch health goals show the company tackling both space and wellness challenges, though not without hurdles.

  • Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple is gearing up for exciting changes in 2025, bringing fresh features to its Calendar app, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and PlayStation 5 payment systems. These updates aim to make daily tasks easier and more connected for users.

    The Calendar app might get a big boost with Apple Intelligence, thanks to Apple’s 2024 purchase of Mayday Labs, an AI-powered scheduling company. This could mean smarter ways to organize your day, like automatic task management or better Siri integration for planning.

    The upgrade is likely to appear in iOS 19, making your calendar more helpful and intuitive. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is set to launch later this year with three new features focused on connectivity. It will include 5G RedCap for faster, energy-efficient internet, plus satellite connectivity to stay in touch without an iPhone.

    These additions make the watch ideal for adventurers or anyone wanting a smoother, phone-free experience. For gamers, Apple Pay is now available on the PlayStation 5, offering a secure way to buy games and content. During checkout, you scan a code with your iPhone or iPad, then use Face ID or Touch ID to pay.

    This feature, already supported on iOS 18, is also expected to reach the PS4 soon, making purchases safer and more convenient. These updates show Apple’s focus on blending smart technology with everyday tools, from planning your schedule to enjoying games and staying connected on the go.

    Source/Via/Via

  • New tricks for your iPhone with iOS 18.5

    New tricks for your iPhone with iOS 18.5

    Apple’s iOS 18.5 update is dropping soon, packed with handy features to spruce up your iPhone. Let’s dive into what’s new and how it’ll make your phone even better. To start, there’s a lively Pride 2025 wallpaper with bold, colorful patterns that dance across your screen when you lock or unlock your device. It’s a fun way to show support for inclusivity.

    For iPhone 13 owners, you’ll love the new satellite connectivity option, letting you tap into carrier services even in far-off places with no signal. Screen Time is getting a tweak that lets you silence notifications from chosen apps when you’re in a focus mode, keeping distractions at bay.

    Over in the Apple TV app, a new “Live” section makes it super easy to jump into live sports or events without digging through menus. Lastly, the Mail app now lets you hit snooze on emails, pushing them out of sight until you’re ready to deal with them. It’s a small change that keeps your inbox tidy.

    Set to roll out next week after thorough testing, iOS 18.5 isn’t a massive overhaul but adds thoughtful upgrades to your iPhone’s daily grind. Get excited to try these fresh features and enjoy a smoother, more colorful phone experience!

  • Apple’s latest software updates near release

    Apple’s latest software updates near release

    Apple is wrapping up its newest software updates, with iOS 18.5, iPadOS 18.5, macOS 15.5, tvOS 18.5, and visionOS 2.5 now in the release candidate (RC) stage. This means they’re almost ready for everyone to use, likely launching to the public soon. These updates focus on making devices run smoother and fixing bugs, with a few small improvements.

    For iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5, there’s a new feature that lets older iPhones and iPads use satellite services, like T-Mobile’s Starlink partnership, for texting in areas without cell coverage. This was previously only available on newer models, so it’s a big win for older devices. The Mail app also gets tweaks, making it easier to turn off features like contact photos or email categories.

    macOS 15.5 is getting ready for its public debut, with the RC version available for developers. It’s all about stability, ensuring your Mac runs reliably. Similarly, tvOS 18.5 and visionOS 2.5 are in the RC phase, focusing on performance for Apple TV and Vision Pro. No major new features are expected here, but they’ll make your devices work better.

    Apple’s updates are tested thoroughly to avoid issues, and these RC versions are the final step before the public rollout. If you’re in Apple’s beta program, you can try them now, but they’re mostly about polishing things up. Expect these updates to hit your devices soon, bringing small but helpful changes.

  • New features for AirPods Pro 2 and Apple Watch Ultra 3

    New features for AirPods Pro 2 and Apple Watch Ultra 3

    Apple is bringing exciting updates to its popular devices! Starting today, March 26, 2025, AirPods Pro 2 users in four more countries—Australia, Brazil, Colombia, and Saudi Arabia—can enjoy new hearing health tools. These features, first launched last year, need approval from health officials, so they’re rolling out slowly.

    With the Hearing Test, you can check your hearing in just five minutes using your AirPods and an iPhone or iPad with iOS 18. After the test, you’ll get a simple report about your hearing levels and tips for improvement. For those with mild to moderate hearing loss, the Hearing Aid mode turns the AirPods into a high-quality hearing aid by adjusting sounds based on your test results. This helps you hear conversations and your surroundings better.

    Meanwhile, rumors suggest the Apple Watch Ultra 3, expected later this year, will get big connectivity upgrades. It might be the first Apple Watch to send messages via satellite when you’re out of cell range—perfect for hikers or adventurers. Plus, it could support faster 5G, making it a strong rival to watches like Garmin. These changes show Apple’s focus on blending health and tech to improve daily life. Stay tuned for more updates as these products evolve!

  • Apple Watch health feature delays and new upgrades coming in 2025

    Apple Watch health feature delays and new upgrades coming in 2025

    Apple’s plan to add a blood pressure tracking feature to the Apple Watch is facing more hurdles. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is still struggling with testing issues, though exact details remain unclear.

    This health tool, in development for years, was hoped to launch by 2025. It won’t give precise readings but will alert users if their blood pressure rises or if high levels are spotted, helping catch problems early. However, these delays suggest it might not arrive as soon as expected.

    Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, set for September 2025, is bringing exciting updates. Gurman says it will include satellite texting, letting users send messages without Wi-Fi or cell service—perfect for hikers or adventurers.

    It’ll also switch to a 5G modem from MediaTek, upgrading from the current 4G. This aims to rival brands like Garmin and make the watch a top pick for those needing off-grid safety. While the blood pressure feature lags, these new additions promise to keep the Ultra 3 a game-changer next year.

  • New iPhone 16e to test Apple’s own C1 Modem

    New iPhone 16e to test Apple’s own C1 Modem

    Apple is working on something exciting for its next iPhone, called the iPhone 16e. This phone might come with a brand-new modem made by Apple itself, named the C1. A modem is the part of a phone that helps it connect to the internet and make calls. Right now, Apple uses modems from another company called Qualcomm, but they want to switch to their own design soon.

    The iPhone 16e is expected to launch in early 2026. It could be a special version of the iPhone 16 lineup, designed to test this new C1 modem. Experts say Apple has been planning this change for a while. They even bought a part of Intel’s modem business back in 2019 to help them build their own tech. The C1 modem is said to be created using a 3-nanometer process, which means it’s super tiny but very powerful. This could make the phone faster and save battery life.

    Why is Apple doing this? They want more control over how their phones work and don’t want to rely on other companies. The C1 modem might also mix in some cool features, like better satellite connections, so you could send messages or call people even without regular cell service. Testing it in the iPhone 16e will help Apple see if it works well before putting it in all their phones.

    This isn’t the first time Apple has made its parts. They already design their own chips, like the A-series for iPhones and M-series for Macs, and those have worked out great. If the C1 modem does well, it could show up in more iPhones by 2027. For now, though, the iPhone 16e is like a sneak peek into Apple’s plans. Fans are excited to see if this new modem will make their phones even better!

  • Apple park’s colorful arches are coming back stronger

    Apple park’s colorful arches are coming back stronger

    The bright rainbow arches that once framed the Apple Park Stage are no longer there, as shown in recent Google Maps satellite photos. These arches were a familiar sight in Apple’s keynote videos, so their removal caught many by surprise. However, word is they’re not gone for good—Apple is reportedly planning to rebuild them, this time to last forever.

    Back in May 2019, Jony Ive, a key figure at Apple, shared the vision for these arches in a message to employees. He wrote that the goal was to design a stage that screamed “Apple” the moment you saw it. The rainbow idea clicked right away for a few reasons. It tied back to the classic rainbow logo that’s been part of Apple’s story for years. Plus, it’s a cheerful symbol of the company’s belief in bringing people together. Ive also loved how the arches’ curved shape echoed the circular design of Apple Park itself. He said it’s tough to find anyone who doesn’t smile at a rainbow.

    The stage itself was always meant to be temporary—set up and taken down for big events—while the arches stayed put. Now, Gabriel Iglesias from Ibsix has a hunch they’ll return soon. His take? The original arches weren’t built to last forever and were made with temporary use. But they’ve grown into such a beloved landmark that Apple might want them to stick around for good. The plan seems to be crafting a tougher, sturdier version.

    So, while the rainbow arches are missing for now, it looks like they’re gearing up for a big comeback—ready to shine as a permanent part of Apple Park’s landscape. Fans of the colorful design can likely look forward to seeing them again, bolder and better than before.