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  • Spotify app update allows web payments after Apple ruling

    Spotify app update allows web payments after Apple ruling

    Spotify has updated its iOS app to let users see subscription prices and buy plans directly on its website, bypassing Apple’s in-app payment system. This change comes after a U.S. court ruled that Apple must allow developers to include links to external payment options without charging fees.

    The ruling, part of a legal battle with Epic Games, found Apple in violation of a 2021 order to support fair competition. Spotify called the decision a major win for users, saying it finally lets them share clear pricing and easy payment options. The updated app, now awaiting Apple’s approval, will let users upgrade from free to premium plans, switch between plans like Individual or Family, and use various payment methods on Spotify’s website.

    Apple has agreed to update its App Store rules to follow the court’s order but plans to appeal the decision. The new guidelines allow developers like Spotify, Epic Games, and Patreon to add external payment links in their apps.

    This shift means companies no longer have to pay Apple’s 30% fee for in-app purchases, giving them more control over their revenue. For users, this could mean better deals and more flexible payment options. The change marks a big moment for app developers and could reshape how digital purchases work on iOS apps in the U.S.

    Source/Via

  • Apple alerts users to spyware threats and updates Safari preview

    Apple alerts users to spyware threats and updates Safari preview

    Apple recently warned some users about possible spyware attacks sponsored by governments. The company sent notifications to people in various countries, including an Italian journalist and a Dutch activist, through iMessage and email.

    These alerts are part of Apple’s efforts to protect users from advanced cyber threats, like those from groups such as NSO Group, known for Pegasus spyware. Apple has been sending these warnings since 2021, reaching users in over 150 countries. The company doesn’t share details about the attackers to avoid helping them improve their methods. Instead, Apple encourages affected users to update their devices, use two-factor authentication, and seek help from experts like the Digital Security Helpline.

    In other news, Apple released Safari Technology Preview 218, an experimental browser update for testing new features. This version includes fixes for CSS, JavaScript, Lockdown Mode, and WebRTC, among others. It works on macOS Sonoma and macOS Sequoia and is available via the Software Update feature for those who’ve downloaded the browser from Apple’s website.

    The preview helps developers and users give feedback to improve future Safari versions. You can run it alongside the regular Safari browser, and no developer account is needed to try it. Full details are on Apple’s Safari Technology Preview website. This shows Apple’s focus on both user safety and improving its software, tackling cyber threats while refining tools like Safari for a better web experience.

  • Why Tim Cook’s focus on Vision Pro is great news

    Why Tim Cook’s focus on Vision Pro is great news

    Apple’s Vision Pro headset, launched last year, is an impressive piece of tech, but it has faced challenges like its high cost and heavy design. However, there’s a bright spot that could shape its future: Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, is deeply committed to making augmented reality (AR) glasses a reality. This is exciting news for Vision Pro fans and anyone curious about where Apple is headed next.

    Reports suggest Cook is laser-focused on creating lightweight AR glasses that people can wear all day. Unlike the bulky Vision Pro, these glasses would blend digital information with the real world in a sleek, comfortable way. Cook’s passion for this project means Apple is pouring resources into improving the Vision Pro as a stepping stone to this bigger goal. A lighter, more affordable version of the headset is already in the works, which could fix some of the current model’s issues and make it more popular.

    Cook’s determination also puts pressure on competitors like Meta, who are racing to dominate the AR market. His vision isn’t just about one product—it’s about creating a new way for people to interact with technology. If Apple succeeds, the Vision Pro could become the foundation for a game-changing platform that blends the digital and physical worlds seamlessly.
    For now, Vision Pro users can feel hopeful. Cook’s commitment means Apple won’t give up on this technology, and the future of AR looks brighter than ever.

  • New games heading to Apple Arcade in May 2025

    New games heading to Apple Arcade in May 2025

    Apple Arcade is gearing up to add five exciting games to its lineup next month, starting May 1, 2025. These titles promise fun for players of all ages, and they’ll be available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. Here’s a quick look at what’s coming.

    First up is LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga. This action-packed adventure lets you explore the entire Star Wars universe, from epic battles to iconic moments, all in a colorful LEGO style. Fans of the franchise will love reliving the saga.

    Next, Monopoly GO! brings the classic board game to life with a fresh twist. Roll the dice, buy properties, and compete with friends in a lively, digital version of the timeless game. For puzzle lovers, Crayola Create and Play+ offers a creative space to design, color, and solve fun challenges. It’s perfect for kids and anyone who enjoys artsy activities.

    Sports fans can dive into NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition. This game delivers fast-paced basketball action with updated teams and smooth controls, making it easy to jump into the court. Finally, Monster Hunter Puzzles: Felyne Isles mixes puzzle-solving with the thrill of the Monster Hunter world. Match tiles to build your island and take on cute but challenging creatures.

    All these games are ad-free and included in an Apple Arcade subscription for $6.99 a month, with a one-month free trial for new users. You can also get it through Apple One, starting at $19.95 a month. Get ready for a fun-filled May with these awesome additions!

  • Google Maps might soon be the go-to map app on iPhones in Europe

    Google Maps might soon be the go-to map app on iPhones in Europe

    Google Maps could soon become the main navigation app for iPhone users in Europe, thanks to new rules. On March 28, 2025, reports hinted that Apple might have to let users pick their default apps more freely in the European Union (EU). This change comes from a law called the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to make things fairer for tech companies and give users more choices.

    Right now, iPhones automatically use Apple Maps for directions. But with the DMA, Apple may need to let people choose Google Maps or other apps instead. This would be a big shift, as Google Maps is super popular—tons of people already love it for its easy-to-use features and accurate details.

    The EU has been pushing big tech companies like Apple to open up their systems. This isn’t just about maps; it’s part of a bigger plan to stop companies from locking users into their apps. If this happens, iPhone users in Europe might see a pop-up asking them to pick their favorite map app when they set up their phone.

    For Google, this is great news. More people might switch to Google Maps, especially since it’s already a top choice on Android phones. Meanwhile, Apple might need to work harder to keep users hooked on Apple Maps. Either way, iPhone fans in the EU could soon enjoy more freedom to navigate their way!

  • WhatsApp might soon be your go-to messaging app on iPhone

    WhatsApp might soon be your go-to messaging app on iPhone

    Good news for iPhone users who love WhatsApp! A new update could make it the main messaging app on your phone. Right now, iMessage is the default for sending texts on iPhones. But WhatsApp, which is super popular worldwide, may get a chance to take over that spot.

    This change is tied to a big rule called the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in Europe. The DMA wants to make things fairer for different apps and give users more choices. Because of this, Apple might have to let apps like WhatsApp become the default for messages. That means when you send a text, it could go through WhatsApp instead of iMessage—pretty cool, right?

    WhatsApp is already working on this. They’ve shared plans to add a feature that lets iPhone users pick it as their top app for texting. This would make chatting easier, especially with friends who use Android or other phones, since WhatsApp works across all devices.

    For now, this is mostly aimed at people in Europe because of the DMA rules. But if it goes well, it could spread to other places too. Imagine texting everyone through WhatsApp without switching apps! It’s still in the works, but it’s exciting to think about. What do you think—would you make WhatsApp your main messaging app?

  • Apple’s Foldable iPhone sounds real, Plus iPhone 18 Pro rumors bring exciting updates

    Apple’s Foldable iPhone sounds real, Plus iPhone 18 Pro rumors bring exciting updates

    Talk about a foldable iPhone has been around forever, but now it’s starting to feel like it might actually happen soon. Reliable sources like analysts Ming-Chi Kuo and Jeff Pu, along with a Weibo user called Digital Chat Station, say Apple’s first foldable iPhone will have a big 7.8-inch screen when opened and a smaller 5.5-inch screen on the outside. Since these sizes keep popping up in leaks, it seems Apple has locked in some details. Kuo says it’ll open like a book, not flip like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip.

    Jeff Pu also mentioned that Foxconn, the company making it, has started early work on the foldable iPhone. Both he and Kuo think it’ll hit full production by late 2026, so we might see it in small numbers next year—though 2027 feels more realistic. Funny enough, it still feels two years away!

    Analyst Tim Long from Barclays predicts it’ll cost about $2,299 in the U.S., almost double the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s $1,199 price. Kuo adds it’ll have two back cameras, one front camera, a Touch ID button instead of Face ID, and a strong battery. It’ll be super thin—4.5mm open, 9-9.5mm folded—with a titanium body and a hinge mixing titanium and steel.

    Now, let’s peek at the iPhone 18 Pro, still over a year away. Here’s what’s buzzing so far:

    Hidden Face ID

    Analyst Ross Young says Face ID might hide under the screen in 2026, meaning the iPhone 18 Pro could get it. The Dynamic Island might shrink or turn into a tiny camera hole, like on Android phones. It’s too soon to say for sure.

    Adjustable Camera

    Ming-Chi Kuo claims the iPhone 18 Pro’s 48-megapixel main camera will let you tweak how much light it takes in. Unlike older models stuck at a wide-open setting, this could help you blur backgrounds better—though iPhones’ small sensors might limit the wow factor.

    Better Samsung Sensor

    Rumor has it Samsung’s new stacked sensor will boost the iPhone 18 Pro’s camera with clearer, more vibrant photos. This could shake things up since Sony’s been Apple’s go-to sensor maker forever. Exciting times ahead!

  • Audi’s new electric Wagon works with Apple’s Car Key, Porsche might be next

    Audi’s new electric Wagon works with Apple’s Car Key, Porsche might be next

    Audi has added a cool feature to its new A6 Avant e-tron, an electric wagon, letting it use Apple’s digital car key for the first time in Audi’s electric lineup (reported by Mac4Ever). With Apple Car Keys, you can unlock your car using an iPhone or Apple Watch that has NFC or Ultra Wideband tech. The key lives in the Wallet app on your device. To open the car, just hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the car’s NFC reader—simple as that.

    A quick tap on the door handle starts the unlock process. For safety, you can use Face ID to confirm it’s you, but there’s also an Express Mode that skips this step for a speedy unlock. The A6 e-tron is the second car built on Audi’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), a system Audi shares with Porsche. This hints that Porsche’s upcoming cars might also get this digital key feature soon.

    Last October, MacRumors spotted some updates in Apple’s Wallet app code, showing that Apple was getting ready to roll out digital car key support for certain Volvo, Polestar, and Audi models.
    Apple first launched its digital car key feature in 2022.

    Since then, a handful of car brands like BMW, BYD, Hyundai, Genesis, Kia, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz, and RAM have jumped on board. If you’re curious about which cars work with this feature, Apple keeps an updated list on its CarPlay model webpage. This move by Audi makes driving a bit more high-tech and convenient, and it’s exciting to think Porsche might follow suit with its own electric models!

  • New iPhone setting in iOS 18.4 — Not Everywhere Though

    New iPhone setting in iOS 18.4 — Not Everywhere Though

    The next iPhone update, iOS 18.4, brings a feature many people have been asking for, but it’s not available everywhere yet.

    Picking Your Favorite Navigation App

    With iOS 18.4, you can choose a navigation app other than Apple Maps to be your go-to. This is great news if you prefer apps like Google Maps or Waze. However, this option is only for people in the European Union (EU). To set it up, just go to the Settings app, tap Apps, then Default Apps, and pick your navigation app under Navigation. Apple added this because of a new EU rule called the Digital Markets Act. We wish this choice was available for everyone around the world!

    A Little Something for U.S. Users

    For those in the U.S., Apple didn’t leave you out completely. With iOS 18.4, you can pick a default translation app. So, if you like Google Translate better than Apple’s own Translate app, you can make it your main one. It’s not as big as the navigation change, but it’s a nice touch.

    When’s It Coming?

    Right now, iOS 18.4 is being tested in its beta version. Apple says it’ll be ready for everyone to download in early April. That’s according to their official website.
    This update shows that Apple is listening to what people want, even if some features are limited to certain places. Hopefully, more options like these will roll out globally soon!

  • iPhone 17 to stay cool with new tech and slim iPhone 17 Air details

    iPhone 17 to stay cool with new tech and slim iPhone 17 Air details

    Fresh news about the iPhone 17 suggests at least one model will stay cooler with a fancy liquid cooling system called a vapor chamber. This is the third time we’ve heard this, but it’s still unclear which models will get it.

    Apple’s chips keep getting stronger every year, but they heat up when you push them hard—like when playing heavy games. When they get too hot, the phone slows down to avoid damage. This is called thermal throttling. It happens when the chip hits its heat limit, and the phone cuts back power until it cools off.

    Big devices like the MacBook Pro use fans to blow heat away, but iPhones rely on a simple metal or graphite block to soak up heat and pass it to the phone’s body. A vapor chamber is a smarter version of this. It has liquid inside that turns into vapor when part of the phone gets hot. The vapor moves to cooler areas, turns back into liquid, and lowers the temperature. It’s like how a wet towel cools your head when you’re sick.

    Who Said What About iPhone 17 Cooling?

    Last summer, Apple expert Ming-Chi Kuo said only the iPhone 17 Pro Max would get this vapor chamber upgrade paired with graphite sheets. Other models would stick to just graphite. Then, the Chinese site MyDrivers claimed all iPhone 17 models would have it. Now, a trusted leaker, Instant Digital, says both Pro models—iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max—will use this cooling trick.

    iPhone 17 Air: Super Thin and Sleek

    Apple’s also swapping the “Plus” model for a new iPhone 17 Air, and everyone’s talking about how thin it’ll be. Reports vary: some say 6mm, others 5.5mm at its slimmest. Leaker Ice Universe adds that the camera bump is 4mm, making the thickest part 9.5mm. It’ll have one camera, a microphone, and a flash in a long bump, like on Google Pixel phones.

    Size and More

    The iPhone 17 Air might have a 6.6- or 6.7-inch screen—bigger than the iPhone 17 (6.3 inches) but smaller than the Pro Max (6.9 inches). Expect Apple to show off the whole iPhone 17 lineup around mid-September 2025.

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