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  • macOS Sequoia 15.3 update solves backup problem

    macOS Sequoia 15.3 update solves backup problem

    Apple has just released macOS Sequoia 15.3, and it seems to have fixed a problem with the backup software SuperDuper. This update tackles a glitch that stopped SuperDuper from making bootable backups on Macs, as reported by the software’s creator, Dave Nanian.

    The problem started with macOS 15.2, where SuperDuper would hit a snag known as a “Resource Busy” error while trying to copy important system files needed for booting up from a backup. This error was due to Apple’s own backup tools not working properly.

    “With macOS 15.3 out now, the issue with the copying tool is fixed,” Nanian shared on his blog. “This means you can again use ‘Erase, then copy’ for your backups.”

    Despite this good news, Nanian warns that even with the bug fixed, booting from these backups isn’t guaranteed to work every time. This is because Apple has tightened security measures in both the macOS software and new Mac hardware.

    For instance, if you have an Apple Silicon Mac, the internal SSD must be working for you to boot from an external backup. If your Mac’s internal drive fails, you won’t be able to start up from a SuperDuper backup, no matter how well it’s made.

    This update is a step forward for those relying on SuperDuper for their backup needs, but users should still be aware of these hardware and software changes affecting how backups are used.

  • Apple starts making its new M5 Chip

    Apple starts making its new M5 Chip

    Apple has kicked off the production of its latest M5 chip, according to reports from South Korean sources. This new chip could show up in devices as early as this year.

    The process of putting together the M5 chip began last month, as noted by ET News. This final step, called packaging, comes after the chip is made and involves protecting it and connecting it to other parts of a device.

    Apple works with a company called TSMC to make the chips on special silicon discs. After that, other companies, like Taiwan’s ASE Group, America’s Amkor, and China’s JCET, handle the packaging. Reports say ASE started first, with the others set to follow one by one.

    Right now, the focus is on making the basic M5 chip, not the more powerful versions like the M5 Pro, M5 Max, or M5 Ultra. The companies involved are also building new facilities to help produce these higher-end models later.

    The M5 chip is expected to have a better design based on ARM technology and is being made using TSMC’s advanced 3-nanometer method. Apple chose not to use an even newer 2-nanometer process, likely to keep costs down. However, the more advanced M5 versions will still be a big step up from the current M4 chips, thanks to a special stacking technique called System on Integrated Chip (SoIC).

    This stacking method layers the chips on top of each other, which helps manage heat better and reduces power loss compared to flat designs. Apple is also teaming up with TSMC on a new version of this stacking that uses a mix of materials, including carbon fiber, for even better results.

    The first device to get the M5 chip is likely to be a new iPad Pro, expected to start production in the second half of next year, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Here’s when other devices might get the M5:

    • iPad Pro: Late 2025 or early to mid-2026
    • MacBook Pro: Late 2025
    • MacBook Air: Early 2026
    • Apple Vision Pro: Fall 2025 to Spring 2026

    Hints of the M5 chip have already been found in Apple’s official code. Reports also suggest the chip’s design will help power both regular devices and Apple’s AI servers, boosting performance for both everyday users and cloud services.

    Source

  • Trump’s tariffs might make Apple products costlier in the US

    Trump’s tariffs might make Apple products costlier in the US

    Apple products in the United States might soon cost more because President Trump has put a 10% tax on imports from China. Even though Apple has been trying to spread out where it gets its parts, most of its gadgets are still made in China.

    Back when Trump was president before, he also put taxes on many things coming from China. Apple managed to get some exemptions, but this new rule seems to apply to everything from China.

    The Chip Tariff That Never Happened

    Trump once talked about putting a huge tax on Chinese-made computer chips, but that didn’t happen. This was good news for Apple since their products use these chips but aren’t chips themselves. People pointed out this would hurt American companies making electronics in the US with parts from China, so the plan was dropped.

    New Tariffs on Everything

    Later, Trump threatened to tax all products from Canada, Mexico, and China. He wanted a 25% tax on items from Canada and Mexico and 10% on Chinese goods. Canada and Mexico promised to tighten border security and fight drug trafficking to avoid these taxes, while also warning they might tax US goods in return.

    Trump decided to wait 30 days before starting the tax on Canada and Mexico, but the Chinese tax began right away. China responded by taxing American products and looking into possible antitrust issues with companies like Apple and Google.

    Impact on Apple

    Now, Apple has to pay an extra 10% on everything it brings in from China. This could mean higher prices for consumers or lower profits for Apple if they decide to cover the cost themselves.

    What Apple Might Do

    While some companies might increase prices, it’s unclear what Apple will do. They’ve done both in the past – raised prices and cut profits. With Trump’s decisions changing often, Apple might wait to see if these tariffs stick around before deciding.

    In summary, Trump’s tariff policies could lead to pricier Apple products. How Apple responds will depend on how long these taxes last and how they affect the market.

    Source

  • Apple might get checked by China over App Store rules

    Apple might get checked by China over App Store rules

    Apple could soon face an investigation in China about how it runs its App Store, according to Bloomberg. A black and white image of the Chinese flag with the Apple logo in the background. China’s market watchdogs have been looking into Apple’s practices since last year. They’re concerned about the 30% fee Apple charges for in-app purchases and how the company doesn’t allow other payment options, sources told Bloomberg.

    The focus is on whether these high fees are fair to Chinese app makers. There’s also worry that by not letting other app stores or payment methods in, Apple might be hurting competition and not giving Chinese users the best deal. If Apple doesn’t change its ways, China might officially look into it, the sources added.

    This all started because of ongoing disagreements with big Chinese companies like Tencent and ByteDance. There was a report in August saying Apple was pushing these companies to change how their apps work in China to stop them from dodging that 30% fee.

    The timing is tricky because things are tense between the US and China. Just this week, China started looking into Google’s business practices right after new US taxes on Chinese products began. Apple has a lot at stake in China. It’s where most iPhones are made, and it’s a huge market for Apple outside the US. But local companies like Huawei are getting stronger, and Apple’s sales in China dropped by 11% over the holiday season. Apple has faced similar issues in other places too. They’ve had to change how they do business in places like Europe to follow new laws and avoid penalties.

    Note: Discussions about this topic can be found in our Politics section on the forum. You can read the thread, but you need to have made at least 100 posts to join the conversation.

    Source

  • Why Apple hasn’t released AR Glasses yet

    Why Apple hasn’t released AR Glasses yet

    Last week, a tech insider shared that Apple had stopped working on its AR glasses after some less-than-stellar demonstrations. Despite the Vision Pro not gaining much traction in sales, AR glasses seemed like the next big step for Apple’s Vision line. But here’s why that might not happen anytime soon.

    Vision Pro: A Glimpse into the Future

    When the Vision Pro was introduced last year, critics had two main points:

    • It was too heavy; glasses would be better.
    • It was too pricey.

    Apart from these issues, many agreed that Apple had done an amazing job with the Vision Pro’s software and hardware. The device seemed futuristic, but current limitations held it back.

    Why No AR Glasses Yet?

    There are two big reasons why Apple might not launch AR glasses soon:

    1. Physical Challenges

    Apple finds it hard to make the Vision Pro light enough for comfortable use. If they can’t make a lighter version of their current product, dreaming of AR glasses might be too far-fetched for now.

    2. Apple’s Other Wearables

    • Apple already has successful products like the AirPods and Apple Watch. These devices can do much of what smart glasses offer:
    • Siri and voice commands through AirPods.

    Notifications, calls, and more on your wrist with the Apple Watch.
    There are even rumors that future AirPods will include cameras, making smart glasses even less necessary for now.

    Smart Glasses vs. Existing Tech

    While smart glasses from other companies like Meta have been well-received, they mainly offer what Apple’s current wearables already do or will soon. Why wear glasses when your AirPods and Apple Watch can handle the same tasks without the bulk?

    Looking Ahead

    Is there a future where everyone wears AR glasses? Possibly. But for that to happen, technology must advance to make such a product truly compelling. For now, Apple focusing on improving Vision Pro, AirPods, and Apple Watch seems like the smarter move. This strategy could eventually lead to the AR glasses we’re dreaming of, but it will take some years.

  • Celebrate heart health on Valentine’s Day with Apple Watch

    Celebrate heart health on Valentine’s Day with Apple Watch

    This Valentine’s Day, Apple Watch users have a special reason to celebrate. On February 14, you can earn a unique award by simply completing a workout that fills your Exercise ring. It’s a fun way to show your heart some extra love during Heart Month.

    Heart Health Challenge 2025

    All you need to do is close your Exercise ring on February 14th. By doing this, you’ll not only keep your heart healthy but also receive a special award. This award can be seen in your Fitness app, adding a badge of honor to your health achievements.

    Alongside this, Apple provides a set of lively animated stickers for the Messages app. These stickers are themed around heart health, making your conversations more engaging and fun.

    More Ways to Engage

    Apple doesn’t stop there. They also roll out themed content across various platforms to promote heart health awareness. Expect to see special content in the App Store, Apple TV app, Apple Podcasts, and Apple Books. This content is designed to educate and inspire you to take better care of your heart.

    So, make this Valentine’s Day special by participating in the Heart Health Challenge. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to celebrate both love and health.

    Source

  • Apple’s new app copies others, says Partiful

    Apple’s new app copies others, says Partiful

    The team behind the popular event planning app, Partiful, has accused Apple of copying their idea with the launch of a new app called Invites.

    Partiful took to social media to point out that Apple might have broken its own rules by launching Invites. They posted a screenshot of App Store rule 4.1, which tells developers to come up with original ideas instead of copying what’s already out there. The rule warns that copying can lead to problems with intellectual property and makes it harder for users to find new apps.

    Partiful allows users to make and send personalized event invites easily. It has features close to what Apple’s Invites offers, but it also has some unique touches. For example, Partiful lets you invite people without needing their email addresses, and you can create invitations either through the app or online.

    On the other hand, Apple’s Invites requires an email for RSVPs and is only available if you have an iCloud+ subscription, which isn’t free. This is different from Partiful, where everyone can use the service without any additional cost.

    This situation brings up the term “sherlocking,” where Apple is known to introduce features in its software that mimic popular third-party apps. The term comes from when Apple added features to its “Sherlock” search tool that were very similar to those in a third-party app named Watson, leading to accusations of copying.

    Even though Partiful and Invites share some similarities, event planning apps are common. Apps like Evite, Paperless, Invitation Maker, and Punchbowl have been around for a while. This shows there’s a big market for event planning tools, and it’s not clear if Apple specifically aimed to copy Partiful or was just adding to the variety of options available.

  • Apple’s new app makes party planning fun and easy

    Apple’s new app makes party planning fun and easy

    Apple has just released a new app called “Party Planner,” which you can download right now from the App Store. This app does a fantastic job by using lots of features already on your iPhone.

    Party Planner Works Well with Other Apple Apps

    Apple’s iPhone comes with many apps that work together smoothly. Apps like Photos, Music, and Maps are part of this family. Now, with Party Planner, these apps work even better together.

    Here’s how Party Planner connects with six other Apple apps:

    • Photos: You can make shared photo albums for your event.
    • Music: Create playlists that everyone can add to.
    • Image Creator: Design your own unique invitations.
    • Maps: Show where the party is happening on a map.
    • Weather: Check the forecast for the event day.
    • Calendar: Add your event to your calendar with just one tap.

    There’s room for even more fun connections in the future. Maybe soon, you’ll be able to use the Wallet app for sharing costs or even use Find My for locating friends at big events.

    Why Party Planner Stands Out

    Thanks to these connections, Party Planner makes organizing events more fun and useful than other similar apps. Even for simple gatherings, the integration with other apps makes you want to use Party Planner over just sending a basic calendar invite.

    The app looks great, works smoothly on both iPhones and Android phones, and keeps organizing parties easy and enjoyable. The only catch is you need an iCloud+ subscription to create events, but if you’re already paying for more storage space, you’re good to go.

    Apple has always been good at making its devices, software, and services work well together. Now, with Party Planner, they’re showing how well their apps can blend to create something really special for users.

  • Apple increases monthly AppleCare+ fees for iPhones

    Apple increases monthly AppleCare+ fees for iPhones

    Apple has recently decided to adjust the monthly fees for AppleCare+ subscriptions for all iPhone models in the U.S., bumping them up by 50 cents.

    For instance, the basic AppleCare+ plan for the latest iPhone models now costs $10.49 each month, an increase from the previous $9.99. This change affects all iPhone models currently available, including both the regular plan and the one that covers theft and loss.

    However, the price for a two-year AppleCare+ subscription remains the same, as do the costs for service fees and deductibles. The new pricing only applies if you choose to pay for AppleCare+ on a month-to-month basis.

    This price adjustment does not extend to AppleCare+ subscriptions for iPads, Macs, or Apple Watches, which remain unchanged.

    Apple is also moving towards a subscription model for AppleCare+. Starting this week, in-store purchases will only offer AppleCare+ as a recurring subscription, either monthly or yearly, ensuring continuous coverage and providing Apple with a steady income stream beyond the initial two-year period.

    However, for those who still prefer a traditional one-time payment for AppleCare+, this option will continue to be available through Apple’s online store. This means you can still choose a plan that ends after two years without automatic renewal if you shop online.

  • Apple’s iPad App Letdown: Three misses in a row

    Apple’s iPad App Letdown: Three misses in a row

    Apple has been knocking it out of the park with new iPhone apps, but when it comes to supporting the iPad, they’ve been striking out.

    First in line was the Journal app, which only came out for iPhone users when iOS 17.2 was released. Even with the update to iOS and iPadOS 18, while the iPhone app got plenty of enhancements, iPad users were left out in the cold.

    Next up was Apple Sports, which made its debut on the iPhone a year ago. It’s improved a lot since then, but there’s still no iPad version. We’re all waiting to see if an iPad app or at least a widget will show up soon.

    Then there’s Apple’s new Invites app, which lets you send out invites to any device. However, if you’re using an iPad, you won’t find a dedicated app for it yet.

    On a brighter note, the iPhone versions of Sports and Invites do work on iPads, providing some relief for iPad users.

    The lack of a Journal app for iPad is particularly frustrating because, unlike other apps, it’s built into the system. This means iPad users can’t even use the iPhone version in a workaround like Stage Manager mode.

    Many thought Apple had moved past the days of iPhone-only apps, especially after finally bringing apps like Weather and Calculator to the iPad. But these new, exciting apps are still iPhone-exclusive.

    Apple’s pitching some great new apps, but when it comes to hitting home runs with iPad versions, they might need to call in a pinch hitter.