Search results for: “AI”

  • Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple is gearing up for exciting changes in 2025, bringing fresh features to its Calendar app, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and PlayStation 5 payment systems. These updates aim to make daily tasks easier and more connected for users.

    The Calendar app might get a big boost with Apple Intelligence, thanks to Apple’s 2024 purchase of Mayday Labs, an AI-powered scheduling company. This could mean smarter ways to organize your day, like automatic task management or better Siri integration for planning.

    The upgrade is likely to appear in iOS 19, making your calendar more helpful and intuitive. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is set to launch later this year with three new features focused on connectivity. It will include 5G RedCap for faster, energy-efficient internet, plus satellite connectivity to stay in touch without an iPhone.

    These additions make the watch ideal for adventurers or anyone wanting a smoother, phone-free experience. For gamers, Apple Pay is now available on the PlayStation 5, offering a secure way to buy games and content. During checkout, you scan a code with your iPhone or iPad, then use Face ID or Touch ID to pay.

    This feature, already supported on iOS 18, is also expected to reach the PS4 soon, making purchases safer and more convenient. These updates show Apple’s focus on blending smart technology with everyday tools, from planning your schedule to enjoying games and staying connected on the go.

    Source/Via/Via

  • Apple’s next software updates: a fresh look and smarter calendar

    Apple’s next software updates: a fresh look and smarter calendar

    Apple is gearing up for big changes with its upcoming software releases, macOS 16 and iOS 19, set to be revealed at WWDC in June 2025. These updates promise a major makeover, aiming to make Apple’s devices feel more connected and user-friendly. For macOS 16, expect a bold redesign that echoes the 2020 macOS Big Sur update.

    That release brought a cleaner, more open look with spaced-out buttons and a fresh style. Some thought it hinted at touchscreen Macs, but Apple said it was just about creating a natural, airy feel. This time, macOS 16 will likely align more closely with iOS and iPadOS, using a glassy, visionOS-inspired style to unify the experience across Apple’s platforms.

    Meanwhile, iOS 19 is set to enhance the iPhone with new AI features. Apple recently bought a company specializing in calendar tools, suggesting the Calendar app could get a smart upgrade. Imagine your iPhone suggesting events or managing your schedule with Apple Intelligence, making daily planning smoother and more intuitive.

    These updates aim to refresh how we interact with Apple devices while keeping things consistent across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. However, big changes can be risky—some users might find the new designs jarring, like the iOS 7 shift years ago. Still, Apple’s focus on a cohesive, modern look and smarter apps could make these updates a hit when they roll out in fall 2025. Stay tuned for a fresh, connected Apple experience.

    Source/Via

  • iOS 19 beta set to launch with cool new features

    iOS 19 beta set to launch with cool new features

    Apple is gearing up to unveil iOS 19, its next major iPhone update, with a beta release expected in June 2025, shortly after the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) kicks off on June 9. The official version will likely drop in September 2025, alongside new iPhones, though some features may trickle out later, possibly into 2026.

    iOS 19 will sport a bold new style inspired by the Vision Pro’s visionOS. Picture a glossy, transparent interface with smoother, curvier app icons and a floating navigation bar in apps. This makeover, the most significant since iOS 7, will also refresh iPadOS 19 and macOS 16, creating a seamless look across Apple’s ecosystem.

    Siri’s getting a major boost in iOS 19, powered by enhanced Apple Intelligence. It’ll dive deeper into your emails, photos, and apps, making tasks feel more intuitive. Some of Siri’s advanced tricks might not show up until iOS 19.4 in spring 2026. There’s also buzz about Google Gemini joining ChatGPT as an optional Siri assistant.

    Expect other perks like upgraded Stage Manager for USB-C iPhones, secure RCS texting, real-time translations via AirPods, and a smarter Health app with AI-powered wellness tips. iOS 19 should support iPhone 11 and later models. Post-WWDC, developers will dive into the beta, with a public beta opening up in the summer for eager testers.

  • Apple fights App Store rules and plans Foldable iPhone

    Apple fights App Store rules and plans Foldable iPhone

    Apple is in a legal battle with Epic Games, the company behind Fortnite, over App Store rules. On May 8, 2025, Apple asked a U.S. appeals court to pause a court order that changes how the App Store works. A judge ruled that Apple must stop charging fees on purchases made through outside links and cannot control how these links look in apps.

    Apple says this ruling hurts its business and wants to delay it while appealing. The company argues the judge’s decision unfairly forces it to give up control of its operations. This fight started in 2021 when a court said Apple’s rules limited competition, and Epic claims Apple’s changes still don’t follow the order.

    Meanwhile, Apple is working on a foldable iPhone, set to launch in 2026. Reports say it will have a nearly invisible crease when unfolded, making it smoother than other foldable phones. It might also use a special “self-healing” display that fixes small scratches on its own.

    The phone could be as thin as 4.8mm when open but thicker when closed, around 9mm. Apple may use a Touch ID button instead of Face ID to keep the screen slim. This foldable iPhone is expected to cost between $2,000 and $2,500, aiming to stand out in the smartphone market.

    Source/Via

  • Apple faces Siri privacy payout and App Store legal battle

    Apple faces Siri privacy payout and App Store legal battle

    Apple is dealing with two big legal issues. First, the company agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit claiming its voice assistant, Siri, recorded private talks without permission. If you owned a Siri-enabled device like an iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024, and Siri accidentally turned on during a private conversation, you might get up to $20 per device, for up to five devices.

    You need to submit a claim by July 2, 2025, swearing the activation happened during a confidential moment. The final amount depends on how many people claim. Apple says Siri data was never used for ads and settled to avoid more court fights. Meanwhile, Apple is also in a legal tussle with Epic Games over App Store rules. Epic, the maker of Fortnite, won a court ruling saying Apple must let developers tell users about other payment options outside the App Store.

    Apple wants to pause these changes while appealing, arguing it needs time to adjust and protect users. Epic disagrees, saying Apple’s delays hurt competition. The court hasn’t decided yet, but this fight could change how apps handle payments. Both cases show Apple navigating tough legal waters. The Siri settlement offers some users a small payout, while the Epic battle could reshape the App Store’s future. For now, Apple is balancing user trust and business rules as these cases unfold.

    Source/Via

  • New tricks for your iPhone with iOS 18.5

    New tricks for your iPhone with iOS 18.5

    Apple’s iOS 18.5 update is dropping soon, packed with handy features to spruce up your iPhone. Let’s dive into what’s new and how it’ll make your phone even better. To start, there’s a lively Pride 2025 wallpaper with bold, colorful patterns that dance across your screen when you lock or unlock your device. It’s a fun way to show support for inclusivity.

    For iPhone 13 owners, you’ll love the new satellite connectivity option, letting you tap into carrier services even in far-off places with no signal. Screen Time is getting a tweak that lets you silence notifications from chosen apps when you’re in a focus mode, keeping distractions at bay.

    Over in the Apple TV app, a new “Live” section makes it super easy to jump into live sports or events without digging through menus. Lastly, the Mail app now lets you hit snooze on emails, pushing them out of sight until you’re ready to deal with them. It’s a small change that keeps your inbox tidy.

    Set to roll out next week after thorough testing, iOS 18.5 isn’t a massive overhaul but adds thoughtful upgrades to your iPhone’s daily grind. Get excited to try these fresh features and enjoy a smoother, more colorful phone experience!

  • Apple Watch sales drop and Epic Games costly battle with Apple

    Apple Watch sales drop and Epic Games costly battle with Apple

    Apple Watch Sales Decline

    For two years, Apple Watch sales have been falling worldwide, according to recent data. The smartwatch, once a must-have gadget, is losing ground to competitors offering similar features at lower prices. Experts suggest Apple needs to introduce exciting new features to win back customers.

    Ideas like better health tracking, such as blood pressure monitoring, or a fresh design could help. Without these changes, Apple risks falling behind in the fast-moving wearable tech market. The company’s focus on small updates hasn’t been enough to keep users hooked, and many are choosing other brands that feel more innovative or affordable.

    Epic Games’ Fight with Apple

    Meanwhile, Epic Games, the company behind Fortnite, has spent over $1 billion battling Apple’s App Store rules, says CEO Tim Sweeney. The five-year legal fight challenged Apple’s control over in-app payments, costing Epic millions in legal fees and lost iOS revenue.

    Despite the huge price tag, Sweeney believes it was worth it to push for a fairer app market. The recent court ruling forced Apple to allow developers to link to external payment options, a win for Epic. This could bring Fortnite back to iPhones and reduce Apple’s 30% fee on app purchases, benefiting developers and players alike.

    Looking Ahead

    Apple faces challenges on two fronts: reviving the Apple Watch with bold new features and navigating a shifting App Store landscape. Both situations highlight the need for Apple to adapt to stay competitive in tech and gaming markets.

  • Epic Games battles Apple: big costs and new laws

    Epic Games battles Apple: big costs and new laws

    Epic Games, the company behind Fortnite, has spent over $100 million fighting Apple’s App Store rules, according to CEO Tim Sweeney. This legal battle, which started in 2020, has cost Epic even more in lost earnings, possibly up to $1 billion since Fortnite was removed from the App Store.

    Despite the high price, Epic won a key victory: a U.S. court ruled that Apple must allow developers to guide users to payment options outside the App Store, avoiding Apple’s fees. This change could save developers money and lower prices for users.

    Epic plans to bring Fortnite back to the U.S. App Store soon, possibly this week, using its Sweden-based account since Apple banned its U.S. account. However, the return isn’t certain, as Apple’s approval is still needed. Sweeney hopes Apple will apply these new rules worldwide, which could end Epic’s lawsuits against them.

    Meanwhile, a new bill in Florida aims to challenge Apple’s control over the App Store. Proposed by Congresswoman Kat Cammack, the App Store Freedom Act would force Apple to allow third-party app stores and payment systems. It also lets users remove pre-installed apps and ensures developers can distribute apps elsewhere without penalties.

    Supported by Epic and others, this bill could further weaken Apple’s grip on its app market. These changes show a growing push to make app stores fairer. While Epic’s fight has been costly, it’s paving the way for more choices for developers and users. Apple plans to appeal the court ruling, so the battle isn’t over yet.

    Source/Via/Via

  • Apple’s latest software updates near release

    Apple’s latest software updates near release

    Apple is wrapping up its newest software updates, with iOS 18.5, iPadOS 18.5, macOS 15.5, tvOS 18.5, and visionOS 2.5 now in the release candidate (RC) stage. This means they’re almost ready for everyone to use, likely launching to the public soon. These updates focus on making devices run smoother and fixing bugs, with a few small improvements.

    For iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5, there’s a new feature that lets older iPhones and iPads use satellite services, like T-Mobile’s Starlink partnership, for texting in areas without cell coverage. This was previously only available on newer models, so it’s a big win for older devices. The Mail app also gets tweaks, making it easier to turn off features like contact photos or email categories.

    macOS 15.5 is getting ready for its public debut, with the RC version available for developers. It’s all about stability, ensuring your Mac runs reliably. Similarly, tvOS 18.5 and visionOS 2.5 are in the RC phase, focusing on performance for Apple TV and Vision Pro. No major new features are expected here, but they’ll make your devices work better.

    Apple’s updates are tested thoroughly to avoid issues, and these RC versions are the final step before the public rollout. If you’re in Apple’s beta program, you can try them now, but they’re mostly about polishing things up. Expect these updates to hit your devices soon, bringing small but helpful changes.

  • Apple’s Foldable iPhone could wow with a smooth screen

    Apple’s Foldable iPhone could wow with a smooth screen

    Apple is gearing up to launch a foldable iPhone in 2026, and it might come with a feature people have been dreaming about: a display without an annoying crease. This book-style phone, folding open like a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, is expected to have a 5.5-inch outer screen and a 7.8-inch inner screen, roughly the size of an iPad mini when unfolded. The big deal? Apple is aiming to make the screen look perfectly smooth, tackling the crease problem that bothers users of other foldable devices.

    This isn’t a sudden idea. Over ten years ago, in 2014, Apple filed a patent for a hinge that creates a “gapless” fold, ensuring the screen stays sleek. That long-term effort shows Apple’s dedication to perfection. A crease-free display would make the iPhone Fold ideal for watching movies, gaming, or splitting the screen for multiple apps.

    Rumors suggest the foldable iPhone will be super slim, possibly using tech from the iPhone 17 Air to stay lightweight yet powerful. But this cutting-edge device might cost around $2,000, a premium price for a phone that doubles as a small tablet. Apple’s focus on quality could make the iPhone Fold a standout in the foldable world. By fixing the crease issue, they might raise the bar for what a foldable phone can be. What do you think about this? Share your thoughts!