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  • Apple explores new AI for Siri and surveys Vision Pro users

    Apple explores new AI for Siri and surveys Vision Pro users

    Apple is working on making Siri smarter by possibly teaming up with companies like OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT, or Anthropic, who make Claude. According to recent reports, Apple has been talking with these companies to use their advanced AI systems to power Siri.

    They’re testing models that work with Apple’s private cloud servers, but no final choice has been made about replacing Siri’s current setup. Tests show Anthropic’s Claude might be the best match for Siri, though talks about costs are ongoing.

    Apple is also developing its own AI for a future Siri update, expected in iOS 27 by fall 2026, while already using ChatGPT for some Siri features in iOS 18. In another move, Apple sent out surveys to Vision Pro users to get feedback on the headset’s features, accessories, and how it compares to other devices like Meta Quest 3, PlayStation VR, and smart glasses like Meta Ray-Ban.

    The survey asked about screen quality, comfort, and the usefulness of the Vision Pro iPhone app. Apple seems curious about what users think of competing products, hinting at plans to improve Vision Pro or explore new ideas like smart glasses. These steps show Apple’s push to stay competitive in AI and mixed reality, aiming to make Siri and Vision Pro better for users.

     

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Apple’s new C1 Modem: Where it’s headed next

    Apple’s new C1 Modem: Where it’s headed next

    Apple introduced its C1 modem with the iPhone 16e, bringing two big perks: better battery life and improved performance. This new tech is a step away from Qualcomm’s 5G modems, which Apple used before. The C1 saves power and works closely with iOS to make your phone feel faster by prioritizing important data.

    Apple made this modem to control more of its tech and cut costs, leading to a smoother experience for users. However, not all Apple devices are getting the C1 yet. Recent products like the M3 iPad Air, A16 iPad, and M4 MacBook Air don’t have it, sticking with Qualcomm’s modems.

    This fall, only one new device will feature the C1: the iPhone 17 Air. This super-thin iPhone, replacing the Plus model, will use the C1 to stay slim while keeping good battery life. Other models, like the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, will still use Qualcomm modems.

    Why is Apple rolling out the C1 slowly? It might be due to deals with Qualcomm, caution about possible connection issues, or just careful planning. For now, if you want the C1’s benefits, you’ll need an iPhone 16e or the upcoming iPhone 17 Air. Looking ahead, Apple’s full iPhone 18 lineup in 2026 is expected to use a new C2 modem.

  • New AirTag expected in September or later

    New AirTag expected in September or later

    Apple’s next AirTag, dubbed AirTag 2, might hit shelves in September or later this year, according to a recent 9to5Mac report citing trusted sources. The updated tracker could be revealed alongside the iPhone 17 during Apple’s big fall event, which is less than three months away.

    The report also mentions that iOS 18.6 beta code suggests compatibility with the new AirTag, hinting at its upcoming release. One key upgrade for the AirTag 2 is better battery alerts. The current model shows when the battery is low in the Find My app, but the new version will notify users at two levels: low and very low.

    There’s speculation from 9to5Mac that this could mean a rechargeable battery, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple will likely stick with a replaceable one, as noted in his November 2024 newsletter. Originally, Gurman predicted a mid-2025 launch, around June or July, but the timeline has shifted to later this year.

    The AirTag 2 is expected to track items up to three times farther than the current model, thanks to a new chip. It’ll also have a tougher-to-remove speaker to prevent misuse, like stalking, while keeping a similar look to the original, released in April 2021. That first AirTag launched with products like the M1 iMac and iPhone 12 in purple. With these upgrades, the AirTag 2 promises better tracking and safety features, making it a handy tool for keeping tabs on your belongings.

  • Apple may buy Perplexity AI and let other apps make their own Airdrop

    Apple may buy Perplexity AI and let other apps make their own Airdrop

    Apple is said to be in discussions to buy Perplexity AI, a company known for its work in artificial intelligence. If Apple goes ahead with this deal, it could use Perplexity’s technology to make its own AI features smarter and more helpful. This could mean better AI tools in Apple’s products, making things easier and faster for users.

    At the same time, Apple is planning a big update with iOS 26. This new update will let other app makers build their own versions of AirDrop, Apple’s popular tool for sharing files between devices. Right now, only Apple’s own AirDrop can be used, but soon, third-party apps will be able to make similar tools. This change will give users more choices for sharing files and could make file transfers more flexible and competitive.

    With these moves, Apple is showing that it wants to stay ahead in both artificial intelligence and user-friendly features. Buying Perplexity AI could boost Apple’s AI abilities, while opening up AirDrop alternatives will give users more ways to share files, making Apple’s devices even more useful.

  • Huge data breach leaks 16 billion logins and Apple explores new AI chip designs

    Huge data breach leaks 16 billion logins and Apple explores new AI chip designs

    A record-breaking data leak puts billions at risk

    Recently, security experts found what they call one of the biggest data breaches ever. About 16 billion login details, including Apple accounts, have been exposed online. These stolen logins come from different places, like social media, work sites, VPNs, and developer platforms. The leak is so big that experts warn it gives hackers easy access to people’s accounts, making it much easier for them to steal identities or take over accounts.

    The data mostly comes from malware called infostealers, which quietly collect usernames and passwords from infected computers. The leak is made up of many huge files, some with over 3.5 billion records each. Experts say new leaks like this are happening more often, showing that this kind of cybercrime is growing fast. If you have online accounts, it’s a good idea to change your passwords and use extra security steps like two-factor authentication to help protect yourself.

    Apple looks into making AI chips

    At the same time, Apple is thinking about designing its chips for artificial intelligence (AI). By making special chips just for AI tasks, Apple hopes to improve how its devices handle smart features and keep up with other tech companies. These custom chips could make Apple’s products faster and safer when using AI, giving users a better experience. This move shows Apple’s focus on both security and new technology as threats like data breaches become more common.

  • Apple Music executive says music is art, not something to be given away for free

    Apple Music executive says music is art, not something to be given away for free

    Apple Music’s vice president recently spoke out about how music should be valued. He explained that music is a form of art, and artists put a lot of time, effort, and creativity into making it. Because of this, he believes music should not be treated as something that’s just given away for free.

    He pointed out that when people get music without paying, it can hurt the artists who made it. Musicians depend on money from their songs to keep making more music. If music is always free, it becomes harder for artists to earn a living from their work.

    The Apple Music executive also talked about how streaming services like Apple Music help support artists. By charging a fair price for subscriptions, these platforms make sure that artists get paid for their music. This helps create a healthy music industry where artists can continue to make new songs and share them with the world.

    He finished by saying that everyone should remember the value of music. It’s not just something to listen to in the background—it’s a real art form that deserves respect and support. By paying for music, listeners help keep the industry strong and encourage artists to keep creating.

  • Apple’s next iOS updates: what’s new and what to expect

    Apple’s next iOS updates: what’s new and what to expect

    Apple is getting ready to release iOS 18.6 beta soon, which will be one of the last test versions before the official iOS 18 comes out later this year. This new beta will help Apple fix any last-minute bugs and make sure everything runs smoothly before the big launch.

    At the same time, Apple is already working on iOS 26, and some interesting details are coming out. The latest iOS 26 software tools for developers have given the biggest hint yet that a foldable iPhone might be on the way. These tools include special features that would help apps work better on devices that can fold, showing that Apple could be preparing for a new kind of iPhone.

    iOS 26 is also bringing some helpful updates to iMessage. Soon, you’ll be able to copy just part of a message instead of the whole thing, making it easier to share or save important information from your chats.

    Another useful upgrade in iOS 26 is for the one-time code autofill feature. This tool, which helps you quickly enter security codes sent by text or email, is getting even smarter. It will now work with more types of codes and make logging in to apps and websites faster and easier.

    Overall, Apple’s upcoming iOS updates are packed with improvements, from better messaging features to hints at exciting new devices like a foldable iPhone. These changes show Apple is focused on making its software more helpful and ready for the future.

  • Apple makes it easier to get in-app deals and fixes 2023 Mac Mini issues

    Apple makes it easier to get in-app deals and fixes 2023 Mac Mini issues

    Apple has announced two important updates for its users. First, Apple is making it simpler for app developers to offer special codes for any in-app purchase. This means you might soon see more discounts and free trials for things like game upgrades, extra features, or subscriptions inside your favorite apps.

    Before, these offer codes were only available for subscriptions, but now developers can use them for all types of in-app purchases. You’ll be able to use these codes by entering them in the App Store or directly inside the app. This change could help users save money and try new features more easily.

    The second update is about a repair program for the 2023 Mac mini. Apple found that some Mac mini models made in 2023 might have a problem where they don’t turn on after shutting down. To fix this, Apple has started a repair program.

    If you own a 2023 Mac mini and have this issue, you can get it fixed for free at an Apple Store or an authorized repair center. This program covers affected devices for up to three years after the first purchase. It’s a good way for Apple to make sure customers aren’t left with broken devices.

    With these changes, Apple is making it easier for users to get more value from their apps and to keep their devices working smoothly.