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Search results for: “Apple News”

  • Apple’s new smart home device teased in tvOS 18.4 Beta

    Apple’s new smart home device teased in tvOS 18.4 Beta

    The latest tvOS 18.4 beta update has dropped some exciting clues about Apple’s upcoming smart home hub. People at MacRumors spotted something called the ChatKit framework in the tvOS code. This is interesting because neither Apple TV nor HomePod has a Messages app right now.

    The ChatKit feature in tvOS 18.4 brings things like reactions and alerts for iMessage tapbacks—think “John didn’t like this” or “Sara added a heart.” These don’t make sense for Apple TV or HomePod, which both use tvOS. But the new smart home hub, also running on tvOS, might use them.

    This “command center” Apple is working on could come with built-in apps, and Messages might be one of them. Since tvOS and iOS share some code, this ChatKit addition could just be a carryover from iOS. Still, it’s new to tvOS with this beta, so it’s worth paying attention to.

    Apple’s smart home device will be a control center for your connected gadgets. Beyond that, it’ll handle video calls, photo viewing, web browsing, music, news, and more. Picture a tiny iPad—just six inches wide—with a sleek, all-screen look. You could place it on a table or hang it on a wall, and it might pop up in multiple spots around your home. It’ll also have sensors to check the room’s temperature or notice when someone’s nearby.

    There’s no set launch date yet, but rumors point to sometime between April and September 2025. This little gadget could be a game-changer for Apple fans who want a smarter, more connected home. For now, the tvOS 18.4 beta is keeping us guessing about what’s next!

  • Apple releases second test versions of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 for everyone

    Apple releases second test versions of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 for everyone

    Apple has just rolled out the second test versions of its upcoming updates—iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4—for people who want to try them early. These public test versions let users check out new tools and features before they’re officially available. They arrived just a day after Apple shared the updates with app developers.

    What’s New for iPhone and iPad

    Anyone signed up for Apple’s public testing program can grab these updates through the Settings app on their devices. You just need to join the testing group on Apple’s website first. The updates bring some cool stuff for iPhone and iPad users. There’s a feature called Priority Notifications, powered by Apple Intelligence, which puts your most urgent alerts at the top. Plus, there’s a fun new Sketch option in Image Playground for all Apple Intelligence devices.

    For those who love food and news, Apple News+ subscribers get a fresh Food section packed with recipes, tasty stories, and healthy eating ideas. You’ll also find a relaxing Ambient Music option in the Control Center. And now, iPad and Mac users can enjoy Mail Categorization, a handy tool that was once only on the iPhone.

    More Goodies in the Second Test Version

    The second test round adds new emoji characters to play with and introduces the Vision Pro app for iPhone users. iPhone 15 Pro Max owners also get Visual Intelligence, making the update even sweeter. Want to know everything these updates offer? Check out our simple iOS 18.4 features guide for the full scoop. With these test versions, Apple is letting everyday users help shape the future of its software—pretty exciting, right?

  • TSMC’s new plan might hurt U.S.-Made Apple Chips

    TSMC’s new plan might hurt U.S.-Made Apple Chips

    TSMC’s recent $100 billion promise to boost its U.S. operations grabbed attention, but it left out key details—like whether this cash is really new or just old promises repackaged. Even more surprising, some experts think this move could actually slow down efforts to make Apple chips in America. Here’s why.

    Where Things Started

    Back in 2022, Apple shared exciting news: it wanted chips stamped “Made in the USA.” This tied into the U.S. CHIPS Act, a big push to bring tech jobs home. TSMC stepped up, planning factories in Arizona. Some of those chips were meant for older Apple gadgets.

    But the road’s been bumpy. The first factory was supposed to start cranking out chips last year, but that got delayed to 2024. People also wondered if raw chips made in the U.S. would still need to zip back to Taiwan for finishing touches—something called “packaging.” Plus, there were grumbles about jobs. TSMC brought in many workers from Taiwan, sparking claims it wasn’t fully supporting American workers.

    What’s Up with the $100 Billion?

    The Trump team hyped up this $100 billion plan before TSMC even confirmed it, making it sound fresh. But since Arizona factories were always part of the vision, it’s hard to tell if this is extra money or just the same budget with a new label.

    One fresh twist? TSMC now says it’ll build U.S. packaging plants. Before, they planned to hand that job to another company, Amkor. This might just mean shifting work around in the U.S., not adding much new.

    A Setback for Apple Chips?

    Here’s the catch: Apple needs cutting-edge chips, and TSMC’s best tech stays in Taiwan. The U.S. plants were already set to make older-style chips, lagging behind Taiwan’s top factories. Now, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says this new deal scraps one of the more advanced U.S. plants. Instead, TSMC’s adding a packaging site and a research hub.

    That could mean fewer chips for even Apple’s older devices. Kuo also warns the $100 billion isn’t locked in—it’s “flexible,” so TSMC might adjust based on how things go. In short, this big announcement might sound great, but it could leave U.S.-made Apple chips stuck in the past.

  • Apple rolls out new test updates for Vision Pro, Apple TV, Watch, Mac, and iPhone

    Apple rolls out new test updates for Vision Pro, Apple TV, Watch, Mac, and iPhone

    Apple has just shared the second test versions (betas) of new software updates with developers. These updates include visionOS 2.4 for Vision Pro, tvOS 18.4 for Apple TV, watchOS 11.4 for Apple Watch, macOS Sequoia 15.4 for Mac, and iOS 18.4 for iPhone. This comes two weeks after the first test versions were released. Developers can grab these updates through the Settings app on each device if they’re signed up with Apple.

    The Vision Pro’s visionOS 2.4 update stands out because it adds Apple Intelligence features for the first time. These include tools for writing, creating custom emojis, making memory videos, editing images, sorting notifications, and connecting with ChatGPT. There’s also a new Spatial Gallery app showing off cool 3D videos, photos, and panoramas from artists and creators.

    Plus, a Vision Pro app for iPhone lets users manage their headset, find apps, and add stuff to a watch list. With iOS 18.4, your iPhone can set up a Guest Mode for Vision Pro, letting others try it easily while you control what they see. These updates will launch fully in early April.

    For Mac users, macOS Sequoia 15.4 brings a smarter Mail app that sorts emails into categories like deals, news, and important messages. Apple News+ fans get a new food section with recipes and restaurant stories, while Photos gains memory video options. Apple Intelligence also adds support for more languages. This update will roll out in early April, too.

    On the iPhone side, iOS 18.4 beta now works on iPhone 12 models and the new iPhone 16e after fixing a glitch that caused some devices to freeze. It also brings Visual Intelligence to iPhone 15 Pro models—a feature that uses the camera to explain objects or places around you.

    New emojis like tired eyes, a shovel, and a fingerprint are included too, along with quick Apple Intelligence shortcuts in Control Center. These updates show Apple’s focus on making devices smarter and easier to use. Full releases are planned for early April, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the changes soon!

  • Tim Cook hints at exciting Apple reveal this week: ‘Something Fresh Is Coming’

    Tim Cook hints at exciting Apple reveal this week: ‘Something Fresh Is Coming’

    Today, Apple’s boss, Tim Cook, shared a fun update on social media. He posted a quick video on X with the words, “There’s something in the air,” teasing a new product drop this week.

    A New MacBook Air Is on the Way

    This sneaky hint points to a fresh MacBook Air announcement soon. Word is, it’ll run on a shiny new M4 chip and keep the same 13-inch and 15-inch sizes as the current version.

    The M4 chip is set to bring some cool upgrades. Right now, the MacBook Air tops out at 24GB of memory, but the new one might jump to 32 GB. It’s also expected to have faster performance, two extra CPU cores, and a sharper 12MP Center Stage camera.

    Plus, the M4 MacBook Air will handle external screens better. The M3 version can run two extra displays, but only if the laptop’s lid is shut. The new model will let you use two external screens and the built-in display at the same time—similar to the basic M4 MacBook Pro.

    Could an iPad Air Join the Party?

    Apple might also unveil a new iPad Air this spring. Bloomberg says the MacBook Air update is up first, but Mark Gurman hinted today that a double reveal—iPad Air and MacBook Air—could happen. This makes sense since iPad Air stock is running low.

    Keep an eye on 9to5Mac for all the juicy details about Apple’s big news this week. Fun fact: the “something in the air” line isn’t new! Apple used it way back in 2008 when they launched the very first MacBook Air. Nostalgia, anyone?

  • iOS 18.5 might fix Apple’s top AI issues

    iOS 18.5 might fix Apple’s top AI issues

    Apple is testing iOS 18.4 right now, and it’s full of cool new stuff. But according to Mark Gurman, the next update, iOS 18.5, will tackle two of Apple’s biggest AI challenges: a smarter Siri and AI features for China.

    What’s Coming in iOS 18.5, According to Gurman

    In his Power On newsletter, Gurman talked about iOS 18.4’s features before hinting at what’s next. He says iOS 18.5 will bring the exciting stuff—like a supercharged Siri that Apple showed off last summer and AI tools for users in China. Normally, a late update like this doesn’t get big changes, but iOS 18.5 is different with two major upgrades.

    A Smarter Siri

    Siri’s big makeover is finally happening. It’ll do all the fancy things Apple promised at WWDC last year—stuff people thought would already be here after seeing the ads. For example, Siri will handle tons of new tasks inside apps and even between them. That means you can ask it to do things by voice instead of tapping around.

    Another neat trick? Siri will see what’s on your screen and help based on that. Plus, it’ll know more about you—like your recent meetings, messages, or places you’ve been. Ask it anything about your life, and Siri will answer like a real helper. Apple’s been tweaking Siri bit by bit, but iOS 18.5 should make it feel brand new.

    AI Features in China

    This won’t affect everyone, but it’s huge for Apple. In China, local phone brands already have their own AI tools, putting pressure on Apple. Bringing Apple Intelligence to China with iOS 18.5 is a must to keep up. iPhone sales there have been slow lately, though Tim Cook says not to panic. He’s hopeful because where AI features are live, sales are better. So, this update could give iPhones a big lift in China.

    When Will iOS 18.5 Arrive?

    Gurman thinks iOS 18.5 will roll out around May, though it might slip to June since iOS 18.4 hits in April. Either way, Apple wants it ready before WWDC 2025 starts. These changes could be a game-changer for Siri fans and Apple’s China market!

  • Fresh Apple gadgets could arrive soon

    Fresh Apple gadgets could arrive soon

    Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple is gearing up to reveal new products, maybe as soon as next week. Among them are a shiny new M4 MacBook Air, plus updated iPad Air and basic iPad models. The MacBook Air news is super close, while the iPads might take a bit longer.

    What’s Coming This Spring?

    After the iPhone 16e hit the scene, everyone’s buzzing about what Apple’s got next. Rumors point to a spruced-up iPad Air, a new iPad 11, and an M4 MacBook Air—all due for a fresh look soon.
    Gurman notes that stores are running low on the current basic iPad and M2 iPad Air. That’s a big hint that new versions are on the way. We saw the same thing with the iPhone SE 3 stock before the iPhone 16e dropped.

    Here’s a quick recap: The iPad 11 should get a boost with the A17 Pro chip, making it Apple’s budget-friendly option with Apple Intelligence. The iPad Air might see some inside upgrades, like an M3 chip and a new Magic Keyboard.

    When Will We See Them?

    All these goodies are set to roll out this spring, though some will pop up sooner. Gurman predicts a Mac announcement could hit as early as next week—probably the M4 MacBook Air. The iPad updates are coming too, but don’t expect them in the next few days, per his latest scoop.

  • Apple pushes back big Siri reveal for iOS 19

    Apple pushes back big Siri reveal for iOS 19

    Last year, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman shared that Apple was working on a friendlier, chattier Siri for iOS 19.4, powered by smarter tech called “large language models.” But in his latest Power On newsletter, he says this upgrade, meant to rival ChatGPT, is falling behind inside Apple.

    What’s Happening with iOS 19?

    Gurman explained that Apple won’t show off this talkative Siri at WWDC 2025 in June as planned. It also won’t be ready for iOS 19.4, expected around March or April next year. Instead, some engineers at Apple now think this big Siri update might not come until iOS 20.

    • This delay hints that Apple is still playing catch-up to companies like OpenAI in the AI race.
    • Even so, Gurman believes iOS 19 will bring small tweaks to Siri’s core setup, helping it tackle trickier questions.

    What’s Coming Soon?

    While waiting, iOS 18.2 has already added a ChatGPT boost to Siri. Later updates should bring Google Gemini into the mix too. Meanwhile, iOS 18.5, due in May, will give Siri new tricks—like noticing what’s on your screen, understanding you better, and controlling apps more deeply. These were supposed to hit with iOS 18.4, but the shift shows Apple’s ongoing struggles to keep up its timeline.

  • Apple offers discounts on refurbished M4 iMacs

    Apple offers discounts on refurbished M4 iMacs

    Apple recently started selling the M4 Mac mini and MacBook Pro at lower prices in its refurbished store. For a while, the M4 iMac, which came out at the same time, wasn’t included. Good news—Apple has now added it, so the whole M4 Mac family is available!

    Refurbished M4 iMacs Come in Many Colors and Options

    You can now grab the M4 iMac from Apple’s refurbished store in different colors and setups, all at nice savings (spotted by MacRumors).

    The regular price for the basic M4 iMac is $1,299 when brand new. But if you go refurbished, it’s only $1,099—and it still comes with all the matching accessories, like the keyboard and mouse.
    Since all M4 Macs now kick off with 16GB of memory, the starting model is a solid pick compared to older versions.

    That said, many people might want more storage space. Apple has several bigger SSD options to choose from. Just keep an eye on the discounts—they can change depending on how much storage you pick.

    Compare Prices Before You Buy

    If you’re thinking about getting an M4 iMac, don’t skip checking Amazon. They’ve got brand-new ones on sale, sometimes close to Apple’s refurbished prices.

    For instance, a new basic M4 iMac is going for $1,149 right now. That’s just $50 more than Apple’s refurbished version. So, it’s worth a look to see which deal feels right for you! Whether you go refurbished or new, the M4 iMac is a colorful, powerful choice at a better price than before.

  • Apple announces iOS 18.4 launch in April with exciting updates

    Apple announces iOS 18.4 launch in April with exciting updates

    Apple recently shared that iOS 18.4 will roll out in April, bringing fresh features for iPhone users.

    What’s New in iOS 18.4

    Apple News+ Food Section

    Starting with iOS 18.4, Apple News+ subscribers will enjoy a brand-new Food section. It’s packed with thousands of recipes, plus articles on restaurants, healthy eating tips, and kitchen must-haves. Top food magazines like Allrecipes, Bon Appétit, and Serious Eats will contribute content. The first test version of iOS 18.4 is already out for developers and curious users to try. While some expected Siri upgrades—like understanding personal details or screen info—aren’t in this beta, there are still plenty of cool additions to explore.

    Key Features Available Now

    Priority Notifications

    A handy new tool sorts your most urgent alerts and puts them front and center on your Lock Screen. You can switch this on in Settings under Notifications. Note: This works only on iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, or any iPhone 16.

    Apple News+ Food

    The Food section in the News app offers subscribers tons of recipes and food stories at no extra charge. You can browse daily updates, save favorites for later, and even use a step-by-step cooking mode—all beautifully laid out.

    Ambient Music

    A new Control Center option lets you play relaxing tunes sorted into four moods: Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Wellbeing.

    More Goodies

    This update expands Apple Intelligence to languages like French, Spanish, Japanese, and more. There’s also a “Sketch” style for creating images from text in Image Playground. In some cars with big screens, CarPlay now shows extra app icons. Plus, EU users can pick a default maps app, and everyone can choose a translation app.

    Coming Soon

    Vision Pro App

    Later, iOS 18.4 will add an app for Vision Pro owners to manage downloads, explore TV content, and get tips—available once the update hits.

    New Emoji

    Fresh emojis—like a tired face, fingerprint, or shovel—will join the lineup, continuing Apple’s tradition of fun updates.

    With iOS 18.4, Apple keeps making your iPhone experience better and more personal!

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