Search results for: “functions”

  • 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 wins appeal in ongoing patent dispute with Optis

    Apple wins appeal in ongoing patent dispute with Optis

    Apple has won an important round in its long-running legal fight with Optis over wireless technology patents. The case, which has been going on for several years, centers on claims that Apple’s iPhones and other devices use technology covered by Optis’ patents without proper licensing.

    Recently, a U.S. appeals court decided in Apple’s favor, overturning a previous decision that had ordered Apple to pay $300 million to Optis. The court said that the earlier trial did not properly explain to the jury how to calculate damages for using standard-essential patents—these are patents needed for basic smartphone functions like connecting to 4G networks.

    With this new decision, the case will go back to a lower court for a new trial to determine if Apple owes any money, and if so, how much. Apple has argued that it already pays fair prices for the patents it uses and that Optis is asking for too much.

    This legal battle is just one example of the many patent disputes in the tech industry, where companies often fight over who owns the rights to important technologies. For now, Apple’s win means it does not have to pay the $300 million, but the fight is not over yet.

  • Apple’s new rules for fixing iPads: some good, some bad

    Apple’s new rules for fixing iPads: some good, some bad

    Apple announced how people can have their iPads repaired. Anyone with an iPad who needs to fix it will find some good news and some bad news.

    Good News:

    Apple is helping users and repair shops fix iPads by making real Apple parts and tools available to them. If your iPad breaks, you can take it to more places to fix it, not just Apple stores. It allows people to save money and use their devices more quickly.

    Bad News:

    Even if Apple allows more repairs, there are still major issues to be resolved. Since the iPad has special screens and features, it might be tricky to repair it at all service centers. A few repairs are best carried out by stores that Apple has approved, because they have the specific tools and software this work requires. Repairing the iPad yourself or getting it fixed at a store that isn’t connected to Apple may make you lose certain functions or cause messages to appear on your device.

    The Role of Underwriting In Your World:

    Having an iPad means you can get more repairs now, although some things may not be straightforward. A number of parts and repairs are not accessible, so you may still need to visit Apple for specific issues. Always confirm the problem with the manufacturer before getting your iPad repaired.

    In Short:

    Despite giving users more choices, Apple is not allowing repairs for everything. It is progress, but it doesn’t solve all the problems we have.

  • iOS 26 borrows ideas from visionOS for a fresh look

    iOS 26 borrows ideas from visionOS for a fresh look

    Apple is currently developing the next update for iPhone software, which is called iOS 26. According to reports, the new update will give a fresh and contemporary feel using concepts from the VisionOS of the Apple Vision Pro headset.

    Apple aims to make the design in iOS 26 prettier and simpler. The new design includes new icons, very smooth menus and a clean style. Their release was prompted by how VisionOS looks and functions. The aim is to make using the iPhone more recent and more fun.

    In addition to looking better, the design might help people use their phones more smoothly. Some highlights might be new transitions between apps and better ways to show information. Apple is ensuring that the iPhone keeps up with the company’s latest gadget style, such as the Vision Pro.

    Overall, this seems to be a large update for people with iPhones. VisionOS provides design advice, so the next iPhone software will be up-to-date, enjoyable and easy for anyone to use.

  • Apple updates its AI speech, News app and App Store pricing

    Apple updates its AI speech, News app and App Store pricing

    Apple recently updated several of its services, making them easier for users, better for developers, and more advanced using AI technology.

    Improving how Apple AI comprehends and speaks English is a key subject for the company. Today, AI assistants have trouble understanding different accents, which can confuse. Using a big dataset named Common Voice, Apple researchers are teaching the AI to talk clearly and comprehend accents. They are working to ensure AI speech sounds natural and functions the same way for individuals from across the world.

    In the meantime, Apple News+ is quietly increasing in popularity. Even though many people focus more on Apple Music or TV+, the service provides plenty of value for folks who trust reliable news. The app provides access to great articles from top publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The Atlantic. Things like family sharing and customized suggestions are making it a standout service from Apple.

    The company brought new changes to App Store pricing. Developers in 30 different countries will face updated taxes and currency rates beginning on May 27. As a result, local customers can expect fair and precise prices. The company reminded developers that they are now able to use up to 900 prices for their apps and in-app products.

    These changes demonstrate Apple’s unwavering effort to increase user satisfaction and make it easier for developers. Apple is working on making its services more intelligent, reading more seamlessly, and making pricing tools clearer throughout its ecosystem.

  • Apple brings CarPlay Ultra to more cars and adds Spotify playlist import to Apple Music

    Apple brings CarPlay Ultra to more cars and adds Spotify playlist import to Apple Music

    Apple has officially launched CarPlay Ultra, its upgraded in-car system that works with iOS 18. This new version offers deeper integration with car hardware, including gauges and climate controls, while still showing familiar iPhone apps on a larger dashboard screen. Drivers can view maps, music, and even check their speed or fuel levels—all from one interface. Porsche and Aston Martin are among the first to bring this next-gen CarPlay to their latest models.

    CarPlay Ultra doesn’t just look better—it’s smarter too. It allows the iPhone to manage key vehicle functions like air conditioning and seat settings. Car brands can even adjust the system’s colors and layouts to match their design style.

    Alongside this, Apple Music is also getting a useful update. Apple has started rolling out a playlist transfer tool that lets users bring over playlists from other music services like Spotify, YouTube Music, Tidal, and more. This feature appears to be powered by the third-party service SongShift and shows up in the Apple Music app under settings > account > transfer music. It’s rolling out slowly, so not everyone may see it yet.

    Together, these updates show Apple’s push to make both driving and music experiences smoother and more connected. Whether you’re behind the wheel or switching music apps, Apple is trying to make it all feel simple and seamless.

    Source/Via

  • Could AI make iPhones a thing of the past by 2035?

    Could AI make iPhones a thing of the past by 2035?

    At a recent media event, Eddy Cue, a senior Apple leader, dropped a surprising prediction. He suggested that by 2035, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) might mean we no longer need iPhones. Speaking at the Paley Center, Cue shared his thoughts on how AI is reshaping the way we interact with technology. He believes future devices could become so smart that smartphones might feel unnecessary.

    Cue highlighted how AI is already simplifying tasks like organizing schedules, sending messages, or finding information. He envisions a future where compact, AI-driven gadgets—perhaps wearable or seamlessly part of our surroundings—could handle all the functions of today’s iPhones, but in a more intuitive way. This could make carrying a phone seem old-fashioned.

    While Cue didn’t say iPhones will vanish completely, he hinted that Apple is exploring ways to weave AI deeply into its products to stay ahead. The iPhone remains central to Apple’s success for now, but Cue’s vision suggests a bold shift on the horizon.

    Known for driving Apple’s growth in areas like Apple Music and streaming, Cue has a knack for spotting trends. His comments about AI signal that Apple is preparing for a future where innovation could redefine its most famous device. As AI continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how Apple shapes what’s next.

  • Apple joins Anthropic to craft AI-powered coding assistant

    Apple joins Anthropic to craft AI-powered coding assistant

    Apple is collaborating with Anthropic to develop a new AI-driven coding tool named “CodeFlow,” as reported by Bloomberg. This innovative software is designed to assist developers by generating, refining, and testing code seamlessly. Integrated into an enhanced version of Apple’s Xcode platform, CodeFlow leverages Anthropic’s Claude Sonnet model, renowned for its exceptional coding capabilities.

    Currently, Apple intends to use CodeFlow internally to streamline its development process. There’s no confirmation yet on whether it will be released to the public. The tool features a conversational interface, enabling programmers to request code samples or troubleshoot errors effortlessly.

    It also supports testing app interfaces, speeding up the creation process significantly. Apple is actively partnering with multiple AI firms to advance its tech offerings. For instance, OpenAI’s ChatGPT enhances some of Apple’s AI functions, and there’s talk of integrating Google’s Gemini later.

    Anthropic’s Claude is a favorite among coders, widely used on platforms like Cursor and Windsurf for its reliability in programming tasks. This collaboration underscores Apple’s commitment to leading in AI innovation, as competitors increasingly adopt similar tools to boost efficiency.

    Through this partnership with Anthropic, Apple is set to revolutionize its coding workflow and may eventually extend CodeFlow to external developers. This effort reflects the growing role of AI in transforming software development, making it faster and more accessible for creators everywhere.

  • iPadOS 19 to bring Mac-style menu bar for better multitasking

    iPadOS 19 to bring Mac-style menu bar for better multitasking

    Apple is getting ready to improve the iPad experience with iPadOS 19 by adding a menu bar like the one found on Macs. This new feature is expected to make it easier for users to multitask and switch between tools while using apps — something that has been a bit of a struggle on iPads compared to Macs.

    Right now, iPads rely on toolbars and buttons within each app, which can make it hard to quickly access important options. With iPadOS 19, Apple may place a system-wide menu bar at the top of the screen, just like on Mac computers. This would give users faster access to app functions and settings without crowding the screen.

    Developers might also get tools to customize the menu bar for their apps, allowing a more organized and cleaner layout. The feature could help make the iPad feel more like a true productivity device, especially when using a keyboard and trackpad.

    This change is part of Apple’s bigger plan to make iPads more useful for work. iPadOS 19 is expected to be announced at WWDC 2025 in June, and more details about the menu bar and other features will likely be shared at that time.

    Overall, this update could fix long-standing issues with multitasking and give users a smoother, more desktop-like experience on iPads.

  • Apple to remove sidecar app from App Store and bring a new iOS 19 design change

    Apple to remove sidecar app from App Store and bring a new iOS 19 design change

    Apple is getting ready to remove the Sidecar app from the App Store. This app gave users a way to browse the web and play videos in their car using CarPlay. However, Apple says they will stop supporting these features soon. Because of this change, Sidecar users can ask for a full refund if they bought the app in the last 90 days.

    The developer behind Sidecar explained that Apple is cutting off the app’s CarPlay web and video playback functions. Without these features, the app won’t be useful anymore. If you have Sidecar, you can still use it for now, but it won’t be updated or fixed in the future.

    At the same time, Apple is working on iOS 19, and a new leak says it will bring a small but useful design change. In the next update, the iPhone’s status bar might move a bit lower on the lock screen. This means it’ll be easier to see the time, battery, and signal, especially on larger iPhones.

    This change may not seem big, but it can make a difference for people using bigger screens. Apple is likely testing this as part of their effort to improve how iPhones look and feel.

    Together, these updates show how Apple is refining both its software and the user experience—removing features that no longer work and updating designs to fit newer devices.