RPRNA

Search results for: “AI”

  • Why Apple won’t buy TikTok: A Simpler Explanation

    Why Apple won’t buy TikTok: A Simpler Explanation

    Apple has the money to buy almost anything, but TikTok isn’t something it’s likely to acquire. This decision goes beyond just the price tag.

    Although Apple has been hugely successful in many areas, it has consistently struggled with launching social media platforms. While buying TikTok might seem like a shortcut, the challenges involved make it a risky move.

    TikTok isn’t officially on the market yet, but if it were to be sold, the buyer would need to be an American company to comply with U.S. regulations. Apple could technically buy TikTok—Bloomberg estimates its value at around $60 billion. However, purchasing it would mean starting a new division from scratch, which isn’t Apple’s strong suit.

    Apple has shown little interest or ability to thrive in the social media industry. Buying TikTok wouldn’t change the fact that the platform operates in a highly competitive space. Additionally, TikTok’s current operations already face controversies, such as limited search results on sensitive topics like abortion, seemingly to align with certain political views in the U.S. If Apple owned TikTok, it would be responsible for similar censorship decisions, potentially harming its reputation.

    Another major hurdle is the heavy moderation TikTok requires. Managing content on such a large platform is expensive and labor-intensive. While some companies, like Meta, have cut back on moderation to save money, Apple would face criticism if it followed suit. If it didn’t, the cost of moderation would still be a significant burden.

    Ultimately, Apple doesn’t need the complications that come with TikTok. The $60 billion price isn’t the issue—it’s the endless problems that would follow. Instead, Apple seems to be focusing on smaller, more manageable acquisitions, as seen with its $3 billion purchase of Beats in 2014, still its largest buy to date.

    In short, owning TikTok would bring more trouble than value to Apple.

  • Apple prepares for major changes in its board of directors

    Apple prepares for major changes in its board of directors

    Apple is gearing up for notable shifts in its board of directors, as two key members approach or surpass the recommended retirement age of 75. Art Levinson, the board chair, will turn 75 in March 2025, making his retirement likely in the near future. An announcement about his departure could come as early as February during Apple’s annual shareholder meeting. Levinson, a former CEO and chairman of Genentech and the current CEO of Alphabet’s Calico Life Sciences, has been part of Apple’s board since 2010.

    Levinson’s retirement could pave the way for Apple CEO Tim Cook, now 64, to step into the chairman role by 2026, potentially signaling the beginning of his own retirement plans. Alternatively, Cook might appoint another current or incoming board member to the position.

    Apple has a policy recommending retirement at 75, but it isn’t always strictly enforced. For instance, Ronald Sugar, a longtime board member and former Northrop Grumman executive, was granted an exception in 2024. However, his extended tenure may soon come to an end, leaving Apple with the task of finding two new board members.

    If Cook chooses to remain solely as CEO, Apple may conduct a global search to fill these roles. However, should Cook take on the chairman position, he would follow a growing trend among tech leaders. Notable examples include Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, Microsoft’s Satya Nadella, and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, who transitioned to board chair after stepping down as CEO.

    Tim Cook has been with Apple since 1998 and became CEO in 2011, succeeding co-founder Steve Jobs. Under Cook’s leadership, Apple has maintained its position as one of the world’s most influential companies. These board changes could mark the beginning of a new era for the tech giant.

    Source

  • Why your external drive isn’t appearing on Mac and how to fix it

    Why your external drive isn’t appearing on Mac and how to fix it

    When you connect an external hard drive to your Mac, it should typically appear on the desktop or in Finder under “Locations.” However, if your drive doesn’t show up, it could be due to formatting issues, corruption, or even a faulty connection. Let’s explore the common reasons behind this problem and how to fix it.

    Common Reasons and Fixes

    1. Connection Issues
    First, ensure the drive is properly plugged in. If it still doesn’t work:

    • Check the cable: Try using a different cable. Faulty cables are a frequent cause.
    • Inspect the port: Switch to another USB or Thunderbolt port. If none work, test the drive on another Mac.
    • Power supply: Some drives require more power. Older Macs might need a USB cable with dual connectors to ensure sufficient power.

    2. Hidden Preferences
    Your Mac might be set to hide external drives. To fix this:

    • Open Finder and go to Settings (or Preferences on older macOS versions).
    • In the General tab, ensure “External disks” is checked.

    3. Password Protection
    If you set a password for the drive, a prompt should appear when you connect it. Be patient, as the password box might take time to show up.

    4. Incompatible File System
    Drives formatted for Windows (e.g., NTFS) may not work on macOS. To fix this:

    • Connect the drive to a Windows PC to retrieve any data.
    • Reformat the drive using exFAT (compatible with Mac and Windows) or APFS (Mac-only). Use Disk Utility to reformat the drive.

    Using Disk Utility to Fix Issues

    If the drive is damaged:

    1. Open Disk Utility (use Spotlight search).
    2. Check if the drive appears. If it does, select it and click First Aid to repair it.
    3. If the repair fails, the drive might need professional recovery software like Wondershare Recoverit or Stellar Data Recovery.

    Prevent Future Problems

    To avoid issues, always eject your drive before unplugging it. Right-click the drive icon on your desktop and select Eject. Improper removal can lead to data corruption.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue with your external drive.

  • How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    Sometimes, you may want to use your MacBook with the lid closed. For example, you might connect it to an external monitor to free up desk space or let it continue downloading files or playing music without interruptions. However, by default, closing the lid puts the MacBook to sleep. Here’s how to prevent that.

    Using a MacBook with the Lid Closed

    Modern MacBooks and macOS versions make it easier to keep your Mac running with the lid shut. To do this, you’ll need an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse (wired or Bluetooth).

    1. Connect an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
    2. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled, and your devices are paired if they are wireless.
    3. Close the MacBook lid once the desktop appears on the external monitor.
    4. If the screen turns off momentarily, press a key or move the mouse to wake the display.
    5. In some cases, your Mac may need to be plugged into a power source to stay awake.

    Note: Without an external monitor, closing the lid will still cause the MacBook to sleep.

    Preventing Sleep Without an External Monitor

    If you want your MacBook to stay awake while downloading files, playing music, or running updates, you can adjust the settings depending on your macOS version.

    macOS Monterey and Earlier

    1. Open System Preferences.
    2. Go to Battery (or Energy Saver).
    3. Select “Prevent your Mac from automatically sleeping when the display is off.”

    macOS Ventura and Later

    In newer versions of macOS, the settings have changed, but you can still keep your Mac awake:

    1. Open Terminal.
    2. Enter this command: 
      sudo pmset -a disablesleep 1

    Using Third-Party Apps

    For a simpler solution, apps like Amphetamine (free) or Caffeinated ($3.99) can keep your Mac awake. These apps override the default sleep settings and provide more control over sleep prevention.

    Now you can keep your MacBook active, whether connected to an external display or running tasks with the lid closed.

  • Apple Watch SOS alerts save skier after 1,000-foot fall in icy conditions

    Apple Watch SOS alerts save skier after 1,000-foot fall in icy conditions

    An Apple Watch played a key role in saving a skier’s life after a dangerous 1,000-foot fall in freezing temperatures. The watch’s SOS feature alerted rescuers, helping them locate the skier just in time to prevent a life-threatening situation.

    According to KIRO 7, the skier’s fall triggered the Apple Watch’s Emergency SOS, prompting King County Air Support to assist the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office in the rescue. Without the timely alert, the outcome could have been much worse.

    The Apple Watch comes equipped with features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS, designed to assist in emergencies. These features can automatically contact emergency services and share the wearer’s location, even if the person is unconscious or unable to call for help. Additionally, the SOS function notifies the user’s emergency contact to ensure timely communication.

    This recent incident underscores how technology can make a real difference in critical situations, especially in remote or hazardous environments. The skier’s story highlights the importance of wearable devices in providing safety and peace of mind.

  • Apple might launch its first Foldable iPhone soon

    Apple might launch its first Foldable iPhone soon

    For years, rumors about a foldable iPhone have been circulating, and recent updates suggest Apple is finally closer to unveiling it. The tech giant is reportedly developing two foldable devices: a clamshell foldable iPhone and a larger 20-inch foldable iPad. However, the foldable iPhone seems to lead the race for an earlier launch.

    Design and Screen Details

    Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to feature a clamshell design, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr. The device will have a standard smartphone display size but can fold inward to become more compact for easier portability.

    Reports indicate that the screen might be larger than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, offering at least a 7-inch display when unfolded. Apple is also working on a bigger foldable device resembling a laptop with a 19-inch screen, but this seems to be at a much earlier stage of development.

    To ensure a seamless experience, Apple is tackling challenges like reducing screen creases, enhancing hinge durability, and using better materials for the display cover.

    The Foldable Market and Apple’s Impact

    The foldable smartphone market has seen impressive growth, with a 40% annual rise between 2019 and 2023. However, this trend is slowing, with growth expected to drop to just 5% in 2024 and a potential decline in 2025. Experts believe Apple’s entry into the market could reignite interest, bringing new features and innovation to the segment.

    Expected Release Date

    If everything goes as planned, Apple’s first foldable iPhone could arrive in late 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 series. Apple reportedly assigned a new codename to the project in mid-2024, signaling significant progress beyond the prototyping stage.

    While the exact release timeline remains uncertain, Apple’s foldable iPhone is shaping up to be a game-changer in the tech world.

    Source

  • Apple stores set to receive new updates next week

    Apple stores set to receive new updates next week

    Apple retail stores are preparing for “merchandise and marketing updates” next week, as reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. While Gurman hasn’t directly tied these updates to a specific product launch, he pointed out that this timing aligns with Apple’s yearly release of its Black Unity watch band for the Apple Watch.

    Apple has introduced a Black Unity campaign in late January for the past four years. This campaign typically includes a new Apple Watch band, a special watch face, and an iPhone wallpaper inspired by the Pan-African flag’s colors. Recent findings in the tvOS 18.3 update code, referencing “UNITY25,” suggest the Black Unity campaign will likely return in 2025. If this is the case, Apple may announce it next week.

    Apart from the Black Unity watch band, there’s no confirmation about other product releases next week. However, Apple is anticipated to unveil new MacBook Air models featuring the M4 chip in early 2025, as well as the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds. Gurman’s update, however, didn’t hint at these products being part of next week’s announcements.

    In addition, Apple is expected to roll out iOS 18.3, macOS 15.3, and other software updates after a month of beta testing. While the upcoming merchandise updates could hint at exciting news, keeping expectations in check is wise. There’s always the chance these updates are more routine than groundbreaking.

    Source

  • iPadOS features you might miss but should use

    iPadOS features you might miss but should use

    I’ve shared before that my iPad Pro is my go-to device for work, even though I have a Mac Mini. The hardware is stunning, and the way it handles single apps is just perfect. With iPadOS 18, Apple introduced tons of new features that make this love affair even stronger. Let’s dive into some lesser-known but super useful features.

    1. Easy Unit Converter

    iPadOS 18 finally brought a calculator app to the iPad, but it’s the built-in converter that’s a game changer. Whether you need to change centimeters to feet, Pascals to Bar, or dollars to Rupees, it’s all there. Plus, it works offline, so no internet? No problem!

    2. Sharing Wi-Fi with a QR Code

    Sharing Wi-Fi with friends is now easier, even if they don’t have an Apple device. The new Passwords app lets you create a QR code for your Wi-Fi:

    • Open the Passwords app.
    • Click on Wi-Fi.
    • Select your network.
    • Tap ‘show QR code’.
    • Let your guest scan the code. They’re connected!

    3. Formatting Drives

    This was a big one for me. Now, you can format drives or SD cards right from the Files app:

    • Connect your SSD to your iPad.
    • Long press the drive in the Files app.
    • Tap ‘erase’.
    • Choose your format.
    • Tap “erase” again. Done!

    4. Turn Apps into Widgets

    Customizing your home screen just got easier. Now, you can turn any app into a widget directly:

    • Long press an app icon.
    • If it has a widget, you can change it right there without going into settings.

    5. Hide Unwanted Web Content

    Safari’s new feature lets you hide annoying parts of web pages:

    • Go to any page in Safari.
    • Tap the three dots in the URL bar.
    • Choose ‘Hide Unwanted Content’.
    • Tap what you want to hide.
    • Click ‘hide’. It’s gone until you decide otherwise!

    These features really make your iPad experience smoother and more tailored to your needs. Check out these hidden gems and make your iPad work even better for you.

  • Apple might rename the next iPhone SE to iPhone 16E

    Apple might rename the next iPhone SE to iPhone 16E

    Rumors have been swirling that Apple might ditch the ‘iPhone SE’ name for the next model coming this spring. Instead, it could be called the ‘iPhone 16E’. This change might sound odd, but it actually fits well with what we know about the upcoming phone.

    What’s New with the iPhone 16E?Here’s what we expect from this new model:

    • Design Inspired by iPhone 14: It will have a notch for Face ID and a 6.1-inch OLED screen.
    • Powerful A18 Chip: It will support Apple’s new AI features.
    • USB-C Charging: Replacing the old Lightning port.
    • Camera Upgrade: A single 48MP back camera, similar to those in the iPhone 15.
    • New 5G Modem: Apple’s first self-designed modem.

    This would be the most significant update to the SE series since 2020. The last SE, released in 2022, just got a new chip and 5G, but kept the same look.

    Pricing ConcernsThere’s talk of pricing the iPhone 16E at $499, which feels low considering its specs. Apple sells the iPhone 14 for $599 and the iPhone 15 for $699. How could they offer a newer phone with advanced features for less?

    • Cost-saving Components: Apple might use their own modem to cut costs, and cheaper display panels from BOE and LG instead of Samsung’s.

    But even with these savings, would Apple really price it so low?

    Why ‘iPhone 16E’ Makes SenseIf priced at $499, the iPhone 16E would undercut the iPhone 16 by $300, which includes extras like the Dynamic Island and an extra camera. Calling it the 16E could justify a $599 price, making it seem less like a budget option but more of a streamlined part of the current lineup.

    Moreover, it would highlight that the iPhone 15, which might still be sold, doesn’t have the latest features like Apple Intelligence.

    A New Name for a New EraThe ‘SE’ has always meant a smaller phone, but with a 6.1-inch screen, that’s no longer accurate. ‘iPhone 16E’ tells customers it’s part of the latest series, potentially boosting sales by clearly showing its place in the lineup.

    This naming could also help consumers understand the phone’s place in time, especially if Apple starts labeling models by year rather than generation. In summary, renaming the next iPhone SE to iPhone 16E could be Apple’s smart move to align the model with its current offerings while managing expectations around price and features.

  • iPhone 17 Dynamic Island stays the same size

    iPhone 17 Dynamic Island stays the same size

    Apple’s new iPhone 17 phones coming out this year will keep the Dynamic Island the same size, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

    Kuo shared on social media that he doesn’t think the Dynamic Island will change much on any of the iPhone 17 models. This goes against what people thought before, as there were whispers about making it smaller.

    Last year, another analyst, Jeff Pu, talked a lot about Apple using something called a “metalens” for the Face ID system in the iPhone 17 Pro, which would make the Dynamic Island thinner. But now, it seems that might not be happening.

    The Dynamic Island was first seen with the 2022 iPhones, and it hasn’t really changed since. People have been hoping Apple would make it smaller to give more space on the screen, but it looks like that’s not going to happen just yet.

    Even though the Dynamic Island isn’t changing, Apple has other plans for the iPhone 17’s design. They’re introducing a very thin model called the “iPhone 17 Air”, which will be the first big design update in a while. Both the iPhone 17 Air and the Pro versions are expected to have new camera setups arranged horizontally.

    For more details on what’s new with the iPhone 17 series, check out our summary on the iPhone 17.

More posts