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Search results for: “Technology”

  • Apple’s iPhone 18 to feature advanced A20 chip technology

    Apple’s iPhone 18 to feature advanced A20 chip technology

    Apple’s iPhone 18, set to launch in 2026, will introduce a powerful new A20 chip made with TSMC’s cutting-edge 2-nanometer process. This technology allows for smaller, more efficient chips that boost performance. The A20 will also use a new packaging method called Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM), a shift from the older Integrated Fan-Out (InFo) approach.

    WMCM integrates components like memory, CPU, and GPU directly onto the chip, making it faster and more power-efficient. Unlike InFo, which focuses on single-chip designs with memory placed nearby, WMCM combines multiple chips into one compact package. This allows for better communication between components, improving speed and reducing power use.

    As a result, the iPhone 18 could see up to 15% faster performance and 30% better energy efficiency compared to the iPhone 17’s A19 chip. The new design may also enhance battery life and thermal management, keeping the phone cooler during heavy use. TSMC, Apple’s chip manufacturing partner, is preparing for high demand by setting up a dedicated production line at its Chiayi P1 facility in Taiwan.

    By 2026, this line is expected to produce 10,000 WMCM units monthly. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that only the iPhone 18 Pro models will feature the A20 chip with 12GB of RAM, due to higher costs. This upgrade promises a significant leap in performance for Apple’s premium devices.

  • iPhone 18 may be more expensive due to advanced chip technology

    iPhone 18 may be more expensive due to advanced chip technology

    Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 lineup could be more expensive, and the reason is a major change in its chip technology. According to a report from DigiTimes, the new A19 chip — expected to power the iPhone 18 — will use TSMC’s 2-nanometer (2nm) process, which is more advanced and costly than the current 3nm process used in the iPhone 15 Pro.

    TSMC, Apple’s chip supplier, is set to start making 2nm chips in the second half of 2025. This new chip process offers better performance and improved energy efficiency, but it also comes with a much higher production cost. That means Apple might raise the prices of the iPhone 18 models to balance the added cost.

    Apple usually introduces new chip technology in its Pro models first, so the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could be the first ones to get the 2nm A19 chip. The standard iPhone 18 models may still use an older chip, like the A18 or A17 Pro.

    In short, while the new chips could make iPhones faster and more power-efficient, buyers might have to pay more for those upgrades, especially in the Pro models of the iPhone 18 series. Apple hasn’t confirmed any of this yet, but more details should come out closer to the launch.

  • Apple launches Safari Technology Preview 214 with fixes and speed boosts

    Apple launches Safari Technology Preview 214 with fixes and speed boosts

    Apple rolled out a fresh update today for Safari Technology Preview, a special browser it first launched in March 2016. This version is built for people to try out new features Apple is working on for future Safari updates.

    What’s New in Safari Technology Preview 214

    The latest Safari Technology Preview 214 brings tweaks and upgrades to things like the browser itself, CSS, JavaScript, media playback, networking, how pages look, Web API, and the Web Inspector tool. This release works smoothly on devices running macOS Sonoma or the brand-new macOS Sequoia, Apple’s latest operating system.

    You can grab this update through the Software Update option in System Preferences or System Settings if you’ve already downloaded the browser from Apple’s site. Full details about what’s included are listed on the Safari Technology Preview webpage.

    Why Apple Made This Browser

    Apple created Safari Technology Preview to get input from developers and everyday users about how the browser is shaping up. It’s designed to run alongside the regular Safari browser, so you can use both at once. While it’s mainly for developers, anyone can download it—no special account needed.

  • Apple’s Mac growth outpaces top PC brands, leads in AI technology

    Apple’s Mac growth outpaces top PC brands, leads in AI technology

    A recent report shows that Apple’s Macs grew faster than the top three PC brands in the last three months of 2024. Not only that, Apple is also way ahead in computers built for artificial intelligence (AI), holding a 45% share compared to just 15% for its closest Windows rival.

    Mac’s Place in the PC World

    Apple sits in fourth place overall, with a 10% slice of the PC market. It trails behind Lenovo, HP, and Dell, but it saw the biggest jump in sales during late 2024. Experts at Canalys believe Apple is set to keep growing, especially with businesses. They point to a new partner program launching soon that will make it easier for companies to use Macs. This could help Apple win over more business customers by showing how well Macs work in big workplaces—something that’s held them back before.

    Here’s how the overall PC market looks:

    Lenovo: 25%
    HP: 20%
    Dell: 15%
    Apple: 10%
    Asus: 7%
    Acer: 6%
    Huawei: 2%
    Microsoft: 0.4%
    Others: 15%

    Apple Shines in AI Computers

    When it comes to PCs with special AI chips, Apple is the clear leader. In 2024, 17% of all shipped PCs were AI-ready. Apple grabbed 45% of that market, while Lenovo and HP each took 12%. (Note: One part of the report says 54%, but most data sticks with 45%—we’re checking on that.) Experts say AI features aren’t the main reason people buy PCs yet, but they’re growing in importance. Better AI could soon mean smarter, more personal devices, which might keep customers loyal to brands like Apple.

    Trump’s Tariffs Could Slow Things Down

    The PC market is doing well overall, thanks to companies upgrading old machines after Microsoft stopped supporting Windows 10. But there’s a catch: a new 10% tax on goods from China, introduced by the Trump administration, could hurt. Since most laptops come from China, this could raise prices and slow down sales, especially for everyday buyers and businesses planning upgrades.

  • Exploring the potential of Samsung’s advanced camera sensor technology

    Exploring the potential of Samsung’s advanced camera sensor technology

    For over a decade, Sony has reigned supreme as the exclusive provider of camera sensors for Apple’s iPhones. This partnership has been instrumental in delivering the high-quality mobile photography experience that iPhone users have come to expect. However, recent reports suggest a significant shift on the horizon, with Samsung potentially stepping into the arena as a key sensor supplier for future iPhone models.

    This development has sparked considerable interest and speculation within the tech community, raising questions about the implications for image quality, technological advancements, and the competitive landscape of mobile photography. 

    A Longstanding Partnership: Sony’s Legacy in iPhone Cameras

    Sony’s dominance in the field of image sensors is undeniable. Their Exmor RS sensors have consistently pushed the boundaries of mobile photography, offering exceptional performance in various lighting conditions and capturing stunning detail. This expertise led to a long and fruitful partnership with Apple, solidifying Sony’s position as the sole provider of camera sensors for the iPhone. This collaboration was even publicly acknowledged by Apple CEO Tim Cook during a visit to Sony’s Kumamoto facility, highlighting the significance of their joint efforts in creating “the world’s leading camera sensors for iPhone.”

    A Potential Game Changer: Samsung’s Entry into the iPhone Camera Ecosystem

    While Sony’s contributions have been invaluable, recent industry whispers suggest a potential disruption to this long-standing exclusivity. Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo first hinted at this change, suggesting that Samsung could become a sensor supplier for the iPhone 18, slated for release in 2026. This prediction has been further substantiated by subsequent reports, providing more concrete details about Samsung’s involvement. 

    According to these reports, Samsung is actively developing a cutting-edge “3-layer stacked” image sensor specifically for Apple. This development marks a significant departure from the established norm and could usher in a new era of mobile photography for iPhone users.

    Delving into the Technology: Understanding Stacked Sensors

    The concept of a “stacked” sensor refers to a design where the processing electronics are directly mounted onto the back of the sensor itself. This innovative approach offers several advantages, including increased signal processing speeds and improved responsiveness. By integrating more circuitry directly with the sensor, a three-layer stacked design further enhances these benefits. This translates to faster image capture, reduced lag, and improved performance in challenging shooting scenarios.

    Beyond speed improvements, stacked sensors also hold the potential to minimize noise interference, a common challenge in digital imaging. By optimizing the signal path and reducing the distance signals need to travel, these sensors can contribute to cleaner, more detailed images, particularly in low-light conditions.

    This technology represents a significant leap forward in sensor design, offering a tangible improvement over existing solutions. The potential integration of this technology into future iPhones signals Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile photography.

    A Closer Look at the Implications:

    Samsung’s potential entry into the iPhone camera ecosystem has several important implications:

    • Increased Competition and Innovation: The introduction of a second major sensor supplier is likely to spur greater competition and accelerate innovation in the field of mobile imaging. This could lead to faster advancements in sensor technology, benefiting consumers with even better camera performance in their smartphones.
    • Diversification of Supply Chain: For Apple, diversifying its supply chain reduces reliance on a single vendor, mitigating potential risks associated with supply disruptions or production bottlenecks.

      Potential for Unique Features: The adoption of Samsung’s sensor technology could open doors to unique features and capabilities in future iPhones, potentially differentiating them from competitors.

    The Megapixel Race: A Side Note

    While the focus remains firmly on the advanced 3-layer stacked sensor for Apple, reports also suggest that Samsung is concurrently developing a staggering 500MP sensor for its own devices. While this pursuit of ever-higher megapixel counts generates considerable buzz, it’s important to remember that megapixels are not the sole determinant of image quality. Other factors, such as sensor size, pixel size, and image processing algorithms, play crucial roles in capturing high-quality images.  

    Conclusion: A New Chapter in iPhone Photography?

    The potential collaboration between Apple and Samsung on advanced camera sensor technology marks a potentially transformative moment for the iPhone. The introduction of Samsung’s 3-layer stacked sensor could bring significant improvements in image quality, speed, and overall camera performance. While the specifics remain to be seen, this development signals a renewed focus on pushing the boundaries of mobile photography and promises an exciting future for iPhone users. It also highlights the dynamic nature of the tech industry, where partnerships and rivalries constantly evolve, driving innovation and shaping the future of technology.

    Source

  • 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 plans seven new head-worn devices

    Apple plans seven new head-worn devices

    Apple is developing seven new head-mounted devices, split into two groups: the Vision series and smart glasses, with the first launching in 2025, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. These devices aim to lead the next big trend in consumer tech.

    The updated Vision Pro, powered by an M5 chip, is set to start production in Q3 2025. It will keep the same specs as the current model, with Apple expecting to ship 150,000 to 200,000 units by year-end. A more affordable version, called Vision Air, is planned for production in Q3 2027.

    It will be 40% lighter than the original Vision Pro, using plastic and magnesium alloy instead of glass and titanium. It will run on a top-tier iPhone processor and have fewer sensors to cut costs. Apple is also working on smart glasses, with four models in development.

    Two are scheduled for production in 2027, and two more in 2028, though details are still unclear. One display-focused product is expected in 2028 or 2029, but its timeline remains uncertain. Kuo notes that Apple sees head-mounted devices as the future of consumer electronics, driving innovation in how we interact with technology.

    While the M5 Vision Pro is the only confirmed release for 2025, the roadmap shows Apple’s big push into this space, aiming to blend style, function, and affordability in the coming years.

  • Apple’s Swift language expands to Android and AI safety testing

    Apple’s Swift language expands to Android and AI safety testing

    Apple is making big moves with its Swift programming language and AI research. Swift, launched in 2014 for building apps on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other Apple devices, is now set to support Android app development. A new Android Working Group in the Swift open-source project is working to make this happen.

    The goal is to let developers use Swift to create Android apps with official tools, without relying on unofficial fixes. This includes improving Swift’s libraries to work better with Android systems and creating smooth workflows for developers.

    In the past, using Swift for Android meant dealing with tricky setups and limited support, but this new effort aims to make the process simpler and more reliable. Meanwhile, Apple is also exploring how AI assistants can make safer choices.

    A recent study co-authored by Apple tests whether AI can predict the outcomes of actions, like tapping a button in an app, and decide if it’s risky. Unlike earlier research focused on basic app navigation, this study looks at real-world consequences, such as actions that might feel uncomfortable if done without permission.

    Participants used real apps to identify risky actions, helping Apple understand how AI can act more responsibly. This work adds to the broader effort to ensure AI aligns with human needs and safety. By expanding Swift to Android and improving AI safety, Apple is helping developers build better apps while making technology safer for everyone.

  • New iPhone, iPad, and AirPods updates coming in 2025

    New iPhone, iPad, and AirPods updates coming in 2025

    Apple is planning some exciting changes for its devices in 2025. The iPhone 17 base model might get a bigger screen, possibly around 6.3 inches, compared to the 6.1-inch display on the iPhone 16. This change could make videos and games more enjoyable, though it’s still just a rumor from a leaker named Ice Universe.

    There’s no word yet on other features, but a larger display could mean a fresh look for the standard iPhone. The iPad Pro is also set for a makeover, with rumors pointing to even thinner bezels around the screen. This would give the device a sleeker design and more screen space for apps, drawing, or watching content.

    The next iPad Pro, expected to launch with an M5 chip in late 2025, might use new technology to shrink the borders around the display, making it look more modern. However, this upgrade may not be ready for the next release, according to some sources.

    Meanwhile, Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 could be on the way, with hints found in a Bluetooth database. These new earbuds might launch alongside the iPhone 17 in September 2025 and could include better sound, improved noise cancellation, and new health features like heart-rate tracking.

    While details are scarce, the clues suggest Apple is working on a big update for its premium earbuds. These rumors show Apple’s focus on improving its devices with bigger screens, slimmer designs, and smarter features. Fans will have to wait until fall 2025 to see what’s real.

    Source/Via/Via

  • Apple and Qualcomm stuck with Texas patent case

    Apple and Qualcomm stuck with Texas patent case

    A recent ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit means Apple and Qualcomm must keep fighting a patent lawsuit in Texas, not California as they hoped. This case, started in 2021 by Red Rock Analytics, is separate from the company’s earlier settled disputes.

    Red Rock claims Apple and Qualcomm are using its technology for wireless transceivers in 5G and Wi-Fi 6 chips without permission. In March, U.S. District Judge Alan Albright decided the case should stay in Texas, where both companies have operations.

    Apple and Qualcomm argued that California would be more convenient for witnesses and documents, but the appeals court disagreed. They said the companies didn’t prove Texas was unfair or that Judge Albright made a clear mistake. The court noted that no witnesses refused to testify in Texas, and documents could be accessed electronically.

    This means the lawsuit will continue in Texas, known for being friendly to patent holders. The case could go to trial by late 2026 if no settlement is reached. Red Rock is seeking damages and wants to stop Apple and Qualcomm from using its technology. For now, both companies must prepare to defend themselves in Texas courtrooms.

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