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  • New Apple Notes feature makes switching between notes easier

    New Apple Notes feature makes switching between notes easier

    Apple Notes received some exciting updates with iOS 18 last year, including features like sections that can be folded away, highlighting in different colors, and even recording audio with text transcripts. But there’s one new feature that I’ve been wishing for, which has made a difference for those who use Notes a lot.

    Quick Note Switching in iOS 18

    I’ve got over 2,500 notes stored in Apple Notes. As someone who uses this app daily, I’ve always found one issue annoying: moving from one note to another.

    Usually, it’s not a big deal, but when I need to toggle between a couple of notes quickly, things can get a bit slow. With all those notes, my app is organized into lots of folders and sub-folders, making the task of jumping from one note to another quite a hassle.

    Thankfully, iOS 18 brought a fix for this problem, especially handy for avid Notes users.

    The Recent Notes Feature in Apple Notes

    There’s now a new option in the top-right corner of the Notes app under a three-dot menu, named ‘Recent Notes’. This menu lists the last 10 notes you’ve looked at on your device. You can simply tap on any note in this list to switch to it without having to dig through your folders. This simple addition has transformed how I move between notes, making it much faster and less frustrating.

    While I would appreciate if Apple could make this process even quicker, maybe with one less tap, the change in iOS 18 is certainly a step in the right direction. It’s made my experience with Apple Notes significantly better.

  • Celebrate super bowl LIX with Kendrick Lamar workouts on Fitness+

    Celebrate super bowl LIX with Kendrick Lamar workouts on Fitness+

    Apple recently shared that Kendrick Lamar will headline the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime show on February 6th. Following his impressive win of five more Grammys, bringing his total to 22, Apple has decided to celebrate by adding several new Kendrick Lamar-themed workouts to Fitness+.

    Fitness+ and Kendrick Lamar

    I’ve been using Fitness+ for a couple of years now. It all started in early 2021 when I wanted to get back into shape. I began with simple 5-minute workouts, aiming for one each day. Over time, I was able to do longer sessions and explore different types of exercises like walking, running, strength training, and yoga. Fitness+ offers a wide range of workouts and instructors, making it easy to find something that suits you.

    Apple then started creating workout sessions focused on specific artists. Instead of a mix of songs, you get to work out to the tracks of one artist. My favorite has been the 30-minute run with Scott, featuring The Weeknd’s music, which is just amazing. Now, they’ve done the same with Kendrick Lamar! Here’s what you can expect:

    • 20-minute Pilates with Darryl
    • 20-minute Strength with Kim
    • 30-minute Yoga with Jonelle
    • 30-minute Cycling with Kym
    • 30-minute Kickboxing with Jamie-ray

    I’m looking forward to trying out the strength workout with Kim, although I would have loved a running session with Scott too.

    Pricing & Availability

    To access these special workouts, you need to be a Fitness+ subscriber. Currently, there’s a one-month free trial available, perfect for February to try out these new workouts. After the trial, the subscription costs $9.99 per month. Alternatively, you can opt for the Apple One Premier plan, which includes Fitness+ along with other services. Here’s the pricing for that: This is a fantastic way to enjoy your fitness journey with the backdrop of Kendrick Lamar’s music, enhancing your workout experience with his dynamic beats.

  • Apple’s new ‘Party Planner’ feature in Calendar app

    Apple’s new ‘Party Planner’ feature in Calendar app

    Apple is gearing up to introduce a new tool called ‘Party Planner’ with the upcoming iOS 18.3 update for the Calendar app. Here’s how it might stand out from other apps:

    What is ‘Party Planner’?

    This weekend, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg hinted that Apple could release ‘Party Planner’ very soon. He explained:

    The name suggests it’s a fun way to invite friends to hangouts, parties, and work meetings. Apple has wanted to freshen up its calendar app for a while, and this might just be the start of something big. Filipe Espósito, another writer, first spotted this feature in the iOS 18.3 code, hinting at an ‘Invites’ app. It seems Apple is almost ready to launch this new service, which will blend into the Calendar app and might even work with iMessage.

    Three Ways ‘Party Planner’ Could Be Better

    • No Cost, No Ads: Over the years, I’ve tried many scheduling tools, but none were both free and without ads. It makes sense because companies need to make money. For example, Fantastical has cool features, but you pay for them. Doodle is free, but has ads. Since Apple earns most of its money from selling devices, offering ‘Party Planner’ for free is a smart move.
      Easy Calendar Management: ‘Party Planner’ will work with the Calendar app’s ability to handle different calendars all in one place – like Google, Microsoft, or iCloud. This means you can use multiple calendars without switching apps, making life easier for anyone juggling various scheduling systems.
      Photo Sharing Made Simple: After events, sharing photos can be a hassle. People might use AirDrop or set up shared albums, but there’s no easy standard. ‘Party Planner’ could solve this by integrating with the Photos app, allowing event attendees to share pictures directly from the event in the calendar. Maybe there could even be reminders to share photos the day after an event.

    Wrapping Up

    Apple’s Calendar app has been pretty basic for a long time, but with ‘Party Planner’, things are looking up. This feature, combined with new looks and smart features in iOS 18, could make organizing events on your iPhone easier and more fun.

  • One Year of Apple Vision Pro: What’s coming up?

    One Year of Apple Vision Pro: What’s coming up?

    It’s been a whole year since the Apple Vision Pro, a fancy AR/VR headset that costs $3,500, was released to the public. This high-tech gadget hasn’t sold as well as expected, which isn’t surprising because of its steep price. Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, called it a product for those eager to jump into future tech.

    Recent whispers suggest that Apple might stop making the current Vision Pro by the end of 2024. But don’t worry, they’ve got enough stock for now, and they’re already looking at creating a new version possibly this year.

    What’s Next for Vision Pro?

    There was talk about a second-generation Vision Pro, but those plans seem to be on hold. Instead, Apple seems more focused on bringing out a cheaper model.

    A Small Update Coming Soon?

    Instead of a major new model, we might just see a little update this year. Analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo and Mark Gurman think this update could include the new M5 chip, which would be better than the M2 in the current model. This could mean better performance, maybe even bringing the advanced Siri features from Apple’s other devices to the Vision Pro.

    However, don’t expect big changes in how it looks or other major features. Apple might just use up leftover parts from the first model. Adding 5G could be on the table, but it’s uncertain if this update will include it or if they’ll save it for a bigger release.

    A Cheaper Vision Pro?

    Apple is interested in making a less expensive version of the Vision Pro, aiming for a price closer to that of a top-end iPhone. But this won’t happen soon; the earliest we might see this is 2027. Cutting costs while keeping quality is tricky, especially with the display. They might use cheaper materials and less powerful chips, and might even skip some features like the EyeSight display.

    What About Apple Glasses?

    There was an idea for lightweight AR glasses that would work with a Mac, but that project was dropped. Apple still dreams of AR glasses that don’t need to connect to another device for power, but they’re waiting for technology to catch up before trying again.

    So, while we’ve celebrated a year with the Vision Pro, Apple is slowly steering towards making it more accessible and advanced, but patience will be key.

  • Apple disagrees with EU’s Porn app approval

    Apple disagrees with EU’s Porn app approval

    Apple has made it clear that it does not support the “Hot Tub” adult app, which was launched for iPhone users in the EU through alternative app stores. In a statement to a tech news site, Apple highlighted its worries about user safety and the damage such apps might do to the trust people have in Apple’s platform.

    User Safety and Trust

    Apple expressed deep concerns about the risks posed by adult content apps to EU users, particularly to children. These apps could shake the confidence that consumers have built-in Apple’s ecosystem over the years. Apple insists it would never permit such an app in its official App Store, despite claims by the app’s distributor suggesting otherwise.

    The company is obligated by EU laws, specifically the Digital Markets Act, to permit the operation of other app marketplaces. This means apps like “Hot Tub” can be distributed through platforms like AltStore, which Apple has less control over.

    Misleading Claims

    In its promotional efforts, AltStore described “Hot Tub” as the first porn app “approved by Apple,” a statement Apple has contested. Even though Apple’s Notarization process checks third-party apps for malware and fraud, it does not regulate content. This allows for apps with content like pornography, drug references, or hate speech to be available on iPhones in the EU, content that would typically not be allowed in the App Store.

    Apple’s Notarization guidelines explicitly state that developers cannot suggest that Apple endorses any app’s quality or functionality. Thus, AltStore’s promotional claim appears to violate these rules.

    Apple’s Stance

    Apple has been vocal about its reservations regarding the EU’s regulations, warning that they could lead to the spread of undesirable content. Apple had previously voiced its concerns about this specific app back in December, but the European Commission has not intervened.

    Clarification from Epic Games

    Following Apple’s statement, Epic Games clarified that it does not distribute “Hot Tub” or similar adult apps through its platform in the EU. However, Epic did provide AltStore with a “MegaGrant” to help distribute apps like “Hot Tub” for free.

    Apple’s main message is that while it must comply with EU laws, it does not endorse or approve of all content that can now reach iPhone users through these alternative channels.

     

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  • EU’s new law lets iPhones have first Adult app

    EU’s new law lets iPhones have first Adult app

    In Europe, a new law called the Digital Markets Act lets developers share iOS apps through other app stores, not just Apple’s. This means that for the first time, you can download a special adult app on your iPhone in the EU.

    The app, named Hot Tub, is available on the AltStore PAL, which is like a different app store made by developer Riley Testut. Hot Tub provides a safe and private way to watch adult videos, with no ads or tracking. It’s described as “An elegant, native porn app. Thoughtfully designed, ethically made, and free to use.” Users can look for and watch videos from places like Pornhub and Xvideos right from the app.

    Apple has strict rules against adult content in its App Store in many countries, including the U.S. and the EU. However, with the new EU law, apps like Hot Tub can exist outside of Apple’s control.

    Apple still checks these apps from other stores for harmful software, but they don’t control what kind of content is allowed. This means other types of content like hate speech or adult materials can appear in these alternative app stores.

    Phil Schiller from Apple mentioned in early 2024 that they usually try to keep certain content off the App Store or allow users to choose for themselves. But these controls don’t apply to apps in other marketplaces unless those marketplaces set their own rules.

    AltStore was among the first new app stores to appear in the EU after Apple changed its rules to follow the EU’s new law. These alternative stores have to pay a small fee for each app download, but thanks to a special grant from Epic Games, AltStore doesn’t charge users to download it anymore.

    Hot Tub might need to pay Apple a fee if it gets many downloads or makes a lot of money. It’s free to use, but there’s also a paid version. Apple’s rule from May 2024 says smaller apps don’t pay this fee for the first three years if they make less than 10 million euros annually.

    Right now, Hot Tub is in testing mode and only available in the EU. People in the U.S. can’t download it because they can’t get apps from outside Apple’s App Store.

    Source

  • New software update for iPhone 11: iOS 18.3

    New software update for iPhone 11: iOS 18.3

    Apple has just released a special update for the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max. This new version of iOS 18.3 comes with the build number 22D64.

    • Getting the Update: If you own an iPhone 11, you can get this update by navigating to your phone’s settings. Simply go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install it.
    • Why This Update?: Last week, Apple introduced iOS 18.3, but it seems there were some issues with it, especially for iPhone 11 models. This new update probably fixes those problems.
    • What’s New?: While the iPhone 11 doesn’t support all the fancy new AI features from Apple, this update still brings some useful changes:
    • Calculator Update: Now, if you press the equals sign, it will repeat the last calculation you did, making quick math easier. Apple Music Fix: There was a problem where music would keep playing even after you closed the app. That’s fixed now.

    This update ensures your iPhone 11 runs smoothly and efficiently, even if it can’t enjoy all the bells and whistles of the newer Apple Intelligence features.

  • Apple Music’s Big Deal: Six months for just $2.99

    Apple Music’s Big Deal: Six months for just $2.99

    Until the end of February, new and some returning customers in the U.S. can enjoy Apple Music for six months by paying only $2.99 once.

    Apple Music

    Apple hasn’t specified who exactly counts as an “eligible” subscriber, but if you’ve used Apple Music before, it’s worth checking the offer page on their site to see if you can get this deal. You can claim this offer right from the Home screen in the Apple Music app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, provided you’ve got the latest software update. Once your six-month trial ends, your subscription will continue at the regular price of $10.99 each month unless you cancel it.

    Unbeatable Offer

    Apple calls this their “best offer ever” for Apple Music.

    Kendrick Lamar at Super Bowl LIX

    Apple Music is also the main sponsor for the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, where you’ll see Kendrick Lamar perform. The app has special sections with lots of content about Lamar’s show at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Additionally, Lamar is spotlighted in Apple Fitness+ sessions, and Apple News has a special area just for Super Bowl LIX news and updates.

  • Discover your 2025 music journey with Apple Music replay

    Discover your 2025 music journey with Apple Music replay

    The latest Apple Music Replay playlist for 2025 is now ready for you to check out. Many users have noticed that this year’s Replay playlist has appeared in their music collections today.

    Apple Music Replay keeps track of your favorite songs, albums, and artists all year long. This playlist isn’t static; it changes throughout the year, giving you a glimpse of your music tastes up to the current month. By December, you’ll have a complete summary of your year in music.

    This feature is great for Apple Music fans because it lets you keep tabs on your music habits as the year goes by. Currently, the Replay ’25 playlist shows your listening trends from January 2025, and it will keep updating as the year moves forward.

    To find your Replay playlist, just go to the bottom of the Home screen in your Apple Music app. Once you see the playlist card, you can tap it and save it to your Library for quick access later. It will refresh itself with your most recent listening activities.

    For more insights, you can visit the Apple Music Replay website. There, you can see stats like how many minutes you’ve listened, who your top artists and albums are, and if you’ve hit any listening milestones. These details will grow with each passing month, starting from January 2025.

    Source

  • Microsoft Defender VPN for Mac and iPhone to end service soon

    Microsoft Defender VPN for Mac and iPhone to end service soon

    If you’re a Mac or iPhone user with a Microsoft 365 subscription, there’s some news you should know. Microsoft has announced that the Defender VPN service will stop working at the end of February 2025. According to a support document from Microsoft, they haven’t given a clear reason, but it looks like not many people were using this feature.

    The document states, “The privacy protection (VPN) feature within Defender will no longer be available after February 28, 2025. We regularly check how our features are used and how well they work. We’ve decided to stop this feature to focus on new areas that will better meet what our customers need.” This change was first noticed by the site Windows Latest.

    For those who don’t know, Microsoft Defender VPN was not widely known because it was only available to Microsoft 365 subscribers in the United Kingdom, the United States, and some US territories. It didn’t expand to other countries.

    Although it provided some privacy protection, it wasn’t helpful for those wanting to access content from different countries, like watching videos not available in their region. This is because, unlike other VPNs like NordVPN, you couldn’t pick which server to connect to; it automatically chose one near your location.

    Source

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