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  • Apple brings new games and fitness updates and may raise iPhone prices soon

    Apple brings new games and fitness updates and may raise iPhone prices soon

    A brand new game called Angry Birds Bounce has been released on Apple Arcade. Those who like the original Angry Birds will find this new approach entertaining. The objective of the game is to bounce birds on the screen and see how best you can challenge yourself. Playable now for Apple Arcade subscribers, the game is available to everyone who wants to try a different experience.

    In addition, news about the Apple Watch has appeared as well. There have been reports that the watch occasionally shows wrong fitness data. In this case, it could have problems with counting every step or errors during your workout sessions. Since Apple knows about this, it is making changes, but for now, people should exercise caution if they depend on their watch for health or sports activities.

    Apple could soon raise the price for the next model, which is likely to be called the iPhone 17. This is happening because Apple now has to pay more taxes in a number of countries. With these costs, customers may have to pay more for the new iPhone when it is released. Previously, Apple has had price increases for other products and people always found that significant.

    To sum up, Apple is keeping users interested by bringing out new games, upgrading its watch and preparing for changes in how much iPhones will cost. There are likely to be interesting updates over the next few months, so fans should pay attention to them.

  • Apple raises prices for iCloud and Apple One subscriptions in Brazil

    Apple raises prices for iCloud and Apple One subscriptions in Brazil

    In Brazil, the prices for Apple’s iCloud storage and Apple One bundles have gone up. Because of this change, Apple users in the country who count on its cloud and paid subscription services will experience changes.

    Higher prices are set because Brazil has introduced new taxes and its currency fluctuates, which Apple now needs to consider for local services. As a result, Apple adjusted the subscription prices to match today’s costs.

    Now, iCloud charges more for monthly fees in each storage plan. Prices for the 50GB, 200G,B and 2TB plans have all increased. Subscribers in Brazil now have to pay more for Apple One, the bundle that offers Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade and extra iCloud storage.

    Apple has raised the prices of its subscriptions in Brazil before. Similar structural changes were put into place in the past for economic reasons. Residents of Brazil are encouraged to check their subscription information and decide if they’d like to stay with the new prices or change their plans.

    All in all, these price rises show how tough it can be for companies to run digital services across the world’s different economies. Customers may notice some cost adjustments on Apple’s services because of factors in each location.

  • iPhone 16 prices cut in China amid low demand

    iPhone 16 prices cut in China amid low demand

    Apple has reduced the price of its iPhone 16 series in China, less than a month after its launch. This move comes as the company faces slow demand in a market where local brands like Huawei are growing fast.

    In China, Apple is now offering discounts of up to 800 yuan (around $110) on all iPhone 16 models. These price drops are available through Apple’s official website and also at major retailers like JD.com. This price cut is unusual for Apple, especially so soon after a product launch, showing how serious the situation is in the Chinese smartphone market.

    The iPhone 16 line brings new features like the Action button on all models, upgraded camera systems, and better performance. But despite these improvements, Chinese consumers are choosing local brands that offer strong specs at lower prices.

    Analysts say this early price drop may help boost sales in the short term, but it also shows that Apple is under pressure. The Chinese market has become more competitive, and Apple has to fight harder to keep its position.

    In 2024, Apple’s smartphone shipments in China dropped by about 6.6%, while Huawei’s grew by over 70%. This shows a clear shift in consumer preference, and Apple is now trying to respond quickly.

    Overall, Apple is trying to stay competitive by adjusting prices, hoping that this move will help regain attention in one of its most important markets.

  • iPhone prices safe from tariff hikes for now

    iPhone prices safe from tariff hikes for now

    Good news for iPhone fans: your next phone won’t cost more because of tariffs, at least for now. A recent decision has kept iPhones off the list of items facing extra taxes when brought into the country, thanks to a special exemption.

    This exemption comes from talks between tech companies and government officials. They agreed to leave out certain products, like the iPhone, from new trade taxes. The goal is to keep prices steady for shoppers and avoid hurting sales for companies like Apple. Experts say this move helps both customers and businesses, especially since phones are a big part of daily life.

    However, this might not last forever. The government could revisit the decision if trade policies change. For now, though, iPhone buyers can breathe easy knowing their wallets won’t take a hit from tariffs. Other products might not be so lucky, as many still face higher costs due to import fees.

    Apple’s been working hard to keep its products affordable. The company has already dealt with rising costs for parts and shipping in recent years. By avoiding tariffs, Apple can focus on keeping iPhones within reach for more people. This is especially important with new models expected to launch soon, which always spark excitement among tech fans.

    For now, the iPhone stays free from tariff troubles, and that’s a win for anyone planning to upgrade. Keep an eye on trade news, though—things can shift fast. If you’re thinking about getting a new iPhone, now’s a great time before any future changes hit.

  • Apple raises iPhone prices in India due to new taxes

    Apple raises iPhone prices in India due to new taxes

    Apple has increased iPhone prices in India because of new import taxes set by the government. These taxes, which started on April 1, 2025, add extra costs to products brought into the country. For example, the iPhone 16 now costs about $50 more, while older models like the iPhone 14 have gone up by around $30. This change affects anyone buying a new iPhone in India, whether online or in stores.

    The Indian government says these taxes will help local companies grow by making imported goods more expensive. Apple, which makes some iPhones in India, still relies on parts from other countries. This means the company can’t avoid the extra costs completely. To cover this, Apple has passed the price hike on to customers instead of taking the hit itself.

    For buyers, this means spending more money on iPhones than before. A student in Mumbai, Priya Sharma, shared, “I was saving for an iPhone 16, but now it’s tougher with the price jump.” Many fans of Apple products are upset, but some understand the government’s goal to boost local businesses. Still, not everyone is happy, and a few are even looking at cheaper options from other brands.

    Apple isn’t the only company affected—other tech brands importing goods might also raise prices soon. Experts think this could push Apple to make more iPhones in India over time, which might lower costs later. For now, though, customers in India will feel the pinch. The company hasn’t said much about future plans, but it’s clear these taxes are shaking things up for iPhone lovers in the country.

  • New tariffs increase US laptop prices, but Apple keeps prices steady

    New tariffs increase US laptop prices, but Apple keeps prices steady

    The recent 10% tariff on goods from China, introduced by President Trump, is beginning to impact prices in the United States. This tax has to be paid by American businesses or passed on to consumers, forcing companies to decide whether to increase product prices or reduce their profits.

    Acer, a major player in the laptop market, has decided to raise its prices by 10%. Jason Chen, the company’s CEO, explained that the price hike is an unavoidable response to the new import tax. This change will affect laptops made in China, with the new prices set to take effect next month. “We must adjust the price for consumers to reflect this tariff,” Chen stated, indicating that a 10% increase is likely.

    Despite campaign promises from Trump that tariffs wouldn’t affect consumer prices, there’s now an acknowledgment that costs could indeed rise. For those looking to buy items from China, it might be wise to do so soon, as many companies still have stock bought before the tariff was implemented, which they can sell at current prices.

    In the U.S., nearly 80% of laptops come from China, and the Consumer Technology Association warns that these tariffs could add up to $143 billion to the cost for American consumers, potentially leading to lower sales. This association counts Apple as one of its key members.

    Acer is contemplating shifting some of its manufacturing out of China, though significant barriers make this challenging. There’s also talk of possibly manufacturing in the U.S., but this seems more like a political gesture since another Trump tariff could impose up to a 100% tax on imported components.

    Meanwhile, Apple has not yet adjusted its prices, choosing to absorb the tariff costs for the time being. This decision might not last, as they will eventually have to decide between increasing prices or accepting lower profit margins in the U.S. market.

  • Apple now sells used M4 Macs at lower prices

    Apple now sells used M4 Macs at lower prices

    Apple has recently started selling refurbished MacBook Pro and Mac mini models with M4 chips in several countries including the United States, Canada, the UK, and Ireland. This is the first time these models have been available in Apple’s refurbished store since they were released in October 2024.

    M4 Mac mini with a Blue Light

    In addition, you can find some refurbished MacBook Pro models with M4 chips in Europe, in countries like Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and a few others. These refurbished Macs are cheaper, about 15% less than buying them new from Apple’s website. However, the stock changes a lot, and sometimes you might see the “buy” button isn’t working for certain models in some places. If you want a specific model, you’ll need to check back regularly.

    Apple hasn’t started selling refurbished iMacs with M4 chips yet in any country. Every refurbished Mac comes with all the usual stuff in the box. For the MacBook Pro, you get a USB-C charger and a USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable. The Mac mini includes its power cord. Apple claims they test each refurbished Mac completely, clean it thoroughly, and check it carefully. They also come with Apple’s one-year warranty, and you can buy extra protection with AppleCare+.

    From what we’ve seen, these refurbished Macs from Apple look and work almost the same as new ones, offering a great chance to save money while still buying from Apple. However, if you’re looking for even bigger savings, checking out sellers like Amazon might give you better deals on Macs.

  • Why Apple Vision Pro’s high price could be a bargain in medicine

    Why Apple Vision Pro’s high price could be a bargain in medicine

    Apple Watch is known for saving lives, but now, Apple Vision Pro is making its mark in healthcare, especially in surgery and medical training. Harry McCracken from Fast Company shares how this expensive device is becoming unexpectedly useful in medical settings.

    At UC San Diego Health, doctors use the headset to make operating rooms more efficient, reducing physical stress and enhancing work flow. Sharp HealthCare has also started a new center focused on spatial computing, and they’re hosting a big meeting where 300 experts are discussing how Vision Pro can be used in surgery, teaching, and more.

    Susan Prescott from Apple was surprised at how quickly the medical community has taken to the Vision Pro. One surprising benefit? Its high price. Prescott explains, “It’s an exciting time where we’re bringing healthcare leaders together not just to listen, but to share and inspire each other with how they’re using Vision Pro.”

    Even with its high cost, adoption in the medical field has been swift. UC San Diego Health’s surgeon, Ryan Broderick, describes how the Vision Pro helps in surgery:

    “For the best surgical view, the screen should be right in front of your face. But in many surgeries, you have to twist and turn, which can strain your neck and back over time. The Vision Pro fixes this by letting you place screens exactly where you need them.”

    The headset uses Apple’s M2 chip, like in their computers and tablets, and a special R1 chip to handle all the sensors. This setup helps prevent nausea and provides critical, real-time data during operations.

    With the Vision Pro, surgeons can see their environment while also having virtual screens positioned for comfort. Dr. Broderick’s team tested this by streaming live surgery feeds directly into the headset, improving ergonomics significantly. They’ve already done over 50 cases with promising results.

    Despite the $3,500 price tag, the value in healthcare is clear. Tommy Korn, an ophthalmologist at Sharp HealthCare, notes that typical operating room screens cost around $20,000 each. Here, Vision Pro not only offers ergonomic benefits but also seems like a cost-effective choice.

    So, while the Apple Vision Pro might seem pricey at first glance, in the medical field, it’s proving to be an investment worth considering. Check out the full story by Harry McCracken at Fast Company for more insights.

  • The evolving landscape of iOS updates and the potential price shift for the iPhone 17

    The evolving landscape of iOS updates and the potential price shift for the iPhone 17

    The world of mobile technology is in constant flux, with updates, new features, and evolving consumer preferences shaping the landscape. Recently, Apple made a quiet but significant move by ceasing to sign iOS 18.2. This action, while seemingly technical, has implications for users and the broader Apple ecosystem. Simultaneously, whispers are circulating about potential price adjustments for the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, suggesting a shift in Apple’s pricing strategy. Let’s delve into these two developments and explore what they might mean for consumers.

    The Significance of Apple Ceasing iOS 18.2 Signing

    For those unfamiliar with the intricacies of iOS updates, the act of “signing” a version of the operating system is a crucial security measure employed by Apple. When a new version of iOS is released, Apple typically continues to “sign” the previous version for a short period, usually a week or two. This allows users who encounter issues with the new update to downgrade back to the more stable previous version. However, once Apple stops signing an older version, downgrading becomes impossible. This is precisely what has happened with iOS 18.2.

    This practice serves several purposes. Primarily, it encourages users to stay on the latest version of iOS, which invariably includes the most recent security patches and bug fixes. By preventing downgrades, Apple ensures that a vast majority of its user base is protected from known vulnerabilities. While iOS 18.2.1, the current version, includes unspecified bug fixes, its predecessor, iOS 18.2, introduced notable features like Image Playground, Siri ChatGPT integration, and Genmoji, enhancing the user experience. This push towards newer versions helps maintain a more secure and consistent user experience across the Apple ecosystem. 

    Hints of a Price Adjustment for the iPhone 17

    Beyond software updates, the rumor mill is churning with speculation about the pricing of the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup. Several indicators suggest that Apple may be preparing to adjust its pricing strategy, potentially leading to higher costs for consumers.

    Growing Demand for Premium Models

    One of the key factors influencing this potential price shift is the increasing demand for Apple’s Pro models. Historically, the Pro and Pro Max iPhones have been popular choices, but recent data suggests this trend is accelerating. Despite Apple’s efforts to enhance the base iPhone models, consumers are increasingly gravitating towards the higher-end offerings. Reports from market research firms indicate a significant surge in the popularity of Pro models, particularly in key markets like China. This increased demand for premium devices creates an opportunity for Apple to adjust prices upwards without significantly impacting sales, as consumers have demonstrated a willingness to pay more for the advanced features and capabilities offered by the Pro models.

    The Emergence of the iPhone 17 Air

    Another factor contributing to the potential price hike is the rumored introduction of a new model: the iPhone 17 Air. This model is expected to replace the Plus models in the iPhone lineup, but it won’t necessarily inherit the same price point. Initial rumors suggested the 17 Air could be an ultra-premium device, even surpassing the Pro models in price. While more recent information indicates it will likely be positioned just below the Pro line, there are still reasons to believe it won’t be a budget-friendly option.

    The 17 Air is rumored to feature a radically thin design, making it potentially the most visually appealing iPhone 17 model. While it may lack some of the more specialized features found in the Pro models, its unique form factor alone is expected to generate significant interest. Apple is unlikely to undervalue a device with such strong appeal, opting instead to capitalize on its desirability by positioning it at a premium price point. 

    Potential Pricing Scenarios

    Considering these factors, it seems plausible that Apple will implement modest price increases across the iPhone 17 lineup. The base iPhone 17 might be the only exception, given its competition with the upcoming iPhone SE 4. Currently, the iPhone 16 starts at $799, the 16 Plus at $899, the 16 Pro at $999, and the 16 Pro Max at $1,199. A potential pricing structure for the iPhone 17 could look something like this:

    • iPhone 17: $799 or $849
    • iPhone 17 Air: $999
    • iPhone 17 Pro: $1,099
    • iPhone 17 Pro Max: $1,299

    This scenario suggests a potential $100 increase for the Pro models and the new Air model, while the base iPhone 17 might remain at its current price or see a slight bump.

    In conclusion, Apple’s decision to stop signing iOS 18.2 underscores its commitment to security and maintaining a consistent user experience. Simultaneously, the potential price adjustments for the iPhone 17 lineup reflect evolving consumer preferences and the introduction of new models. While these are still based on speculation, the converging evidence suggests that the landscape of iOS updates and iPhone pricing is poised for change.

  • Apple’s rumored Magic Mouse redesign and the iPhone SE 4’s potential price shift

    Apple’s rumored Magic Mouse redesign and the iPhone SE 4’s potential price shift

    The tech world is abuzz with whispers of upcoming Apple innovations, from a revamped Magic Mouse promising a futuristic user experience to the next iteration of the budget-friendly iPhone SE potentially seeing a price adjustment. Let’s delve into these intriguing rumors and explore what they might mean for consumers.

    A New Era for the Magic Mouse: Touch, Voice, and Ergonomics

    For years, the Magic Mouse has been a staple on desks alongside Macs, known for its sleek design and multi-touch capabilities. However, it hasn’t been without its critics. The placement of the charging port on the bottom, rendering the mouse unusable while charging, has been a persistent point of contention. Now, whispers emanating from Korea, building upon earlier reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, suggest Apple is finally addressing these concerns and taking the Magic Mouse into a new era. 

    The rumored redesign, slated for a potential 2026 release alongside an OLED MacBook Pro powered by the “M6” chip, goes far beyond simply relocating the charging port. Sources indicate Apple is experimenting with a prototype incorporating a blend of touch, voice controls, and hand gestures. This ambitious approach aims to make the mouse more intuitive and adaptable to the evolving demands of modern computing. Imagine seamlessly switching between applications with a swipe, dictating text directly through the mouse, or executing complex commands with a simple hand gesture. This could revolutionize how we interact with our computers.

    Beyond the innovative input methods, ergonomics are also reportedly a key focus. The Magic Mouse’s flat design hasn’t been universally praised for its comfort during extended use. A redesign could bring a more contoured shape, potentially reducing strain and improving overall usability.

    The current Magic Mouse has seen incremental updates since its initial 2009 launch, including the shift to a built-in rechargeable battery in 2015, color-matching options introduced with the iMac in 2021, and the recent transition from Lightning to USB-C. However, a complete overhaul incorporating touch, voice, and improved ergonomics would represent the most significant change in the mouse’s history, signaling a bold step forward in input device technology.  

    iPhone SE 4: Balancing Affordability with Advanced Features

    Turning our attention to the mobile front, rumors suggest the fourth-generation iPhone SE could see a slight price increase. While the current model has been a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking the Apple ecosystem, the next iteration is expected to pack some significant upgrades.

    According to information originating from a Japanese source and shared on the Korean social media platform Naver by the user “yeux1122,” the iPhone SE 4 could be priced below 78,000 yen (approximately $500). However, the same source suggests a Korean price exceeding 800,000 won, translating to around $540. This international pricing discrepancy raises the possibility of a price increase compared to the current model, which starts at $429.

    Previous reports have offered varying predictions, some suggesting Apple would maintain the $429 price point or implement a modest 10% increase, bringing it to around $470. The latest information points towards Apple potentially aiming to keep the US price below $500, even with a slight upward adjustment.

    Several factors could justify a price bump. The iPhone SE 4 is rumored to inherit several features from higher-end iPhones, including Face ID, a modern all-screen design, an OLED display, and a USB-C port. These upgrades represent a significant leap forward in technology and user experience compared to the current model, which still utilizes a Home button and a smaller display.  

    While the iPhone SE has always been positioned as Apple’s entry-level iPhone, incorporating these advanced features naturally comes at a cost. Balancing affordability with cutting-edge technology is a delicate act, and it appears Apple is carefully considering the optimal price point for the iPhone SE 4. The rumored launch window of March 2025 gives Apple ample time to finalize its strategy.

    Looking Ahead

    These rumors, while still unconfirmed, offer an exciting glimpse into Apple’s potential future product lineup. The redesigned Magic Mouse promises to redefine how we interact with our computers, while the iPhone SE 4 could bring flagship-level features to a more accessible price point.

    As always, it’s essential to treat these reports with a degree of caution. However, the convergence of multiple sources adds weight to these claims, leaving us eagerly anticipating what Apple has in store. The coming years could bring significant advancements in both input devices and mobile technology, further solidifying Apple’s position at the forefront of innovation.

    Source/Via

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