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Search results for: “Apple”

  • When will Apple roll out the iOS 18.4 test version?

    When will Apple roll out the iOS 18.4 test version?

    Apple just released iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3 on January 27, which means we’re all set for the next round of testing. People are excited because the upcoming betas might bring big new features to Siri with Apple Intelligence. But when can we expect this software to come out?

    How Soon Will the New Betas Come?

    Usually, Apple doesn’t wait long between updates. They might drop a new beta just one or two days after the latest software release. However, sometimes there’s a wait of a couple of weeks, especially if there are significant features like in iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4.

    Looking back at past releases can help us guess when the .4 betas might appear:

    • From iOS 17.3 to iOS 17.4 beta: 3 days
    • From iOS 16.3 to iOS 16.4 beta: 24 days
    • From iOS 15.3 to iOS 15.4 beta: 1 day
    • From iOS 14.3 to iOS 14.4 beta: 2 days
    • From iOS 13.3 to iOS 13.4 beta: 57 days

    What’s New in iOS 18.4?

    Since some Apple Intelligence features announced at WWDC in June are still pending, we can expect them in iOS 18.4. Here’s what might be included:

    • Siri Updates: Siri will get smarter with new abilities.
      • Siri’s Personal Context: Siri will remember details from your emails, messages, and photos to help you with tasks like finding files or recalling information.
      • Siri Onscreen Awareness: Siri will understand what’s on your screen, allowing you to do things like adding an address from a text to a contact or sending a photo you’re viewing.
      • Deeper App Integration: Siri will manage tasks across apps, like moving files or editing and sending photos.
    • More Countries: Apple Intelligence will expand to more languages and countries, including English (India), English (Singapore), and languages like Chinese, French, German, and more.
    • New Emoji: The update might introduce new emoji from Unicode 16, like a face with bags under eyes or a shovel.
    • EU Changes: EU iPhone users might soon choose different default navigation or translation apps, thanks to new regulations.

    iOS 18.4 Release Prediction

    After testing through March, Apple is likely to release iOS 18.4 in April 2025. This fits with Apple’s earlier mention of new language support for Apple Intelligence coming in an April update.

  • Easy payment options with Apple Pay and Citi

    Easy payment options with Apple Pay and Citi

    Apple Pay now works with Citi’s monthly payment plan, making it easier for people in the U.S. with Citi credit cards to spread out their payments when shopping.

    Apple Pay and Citi’s Payment Plan

    If you’re buying something that costs more than $75, you can use Citi’s payment plan through Apple Pay. By default, you have three months to pay it back, but if you need more time, there are other options available, though they might come with a small monthly fee. You can use this plan for shopping online or within apps.

    Here’s how to use it: First, make sure your Citi credit card is linked to your Apple Pay. When you’re ready to buy something, choose your Citi card at checkout and look for the “Pay Later” option. Then, pick the payment plan that works best for you.

    Apple used to have its own “buy now, pay later” feature called Apple Pay Later, but they stopped it last year. Now, they work with other companies like Citi, Affirm, Klarna, and Synchrony to offer these payment options in the U.S. This partnership allows Apple Pay users to manage their spending more flexibly without having to pay everything upfront.

  • Apple’s AI will boost iPhone sales, but not right away

    Apple’s AI will boost iPhone sales, but not right away

    Apple is gearing up to share its holiday sales figures, and everyone’s curious if its new AI features will spike iPhone sales. Here’s the deal: while the AI boost isn’t here yet, it’s definitely on its way.

    The iPhone 16 is Doing Well, But AI’s Big Moment is Coming

    Back in June, when Apple rolled out its AI features, experts predicted a boom in iPhone sales. They thought AI would push people to upgrade their phones faster than usual.

    When Apple last announced its earnings, the iPhone 16 had just hit the market, and the AI features weren’t fully live yet. Sales went up by 5%, which is good but not the massive jump some were hoping for.

    This Week’s Earnings Will Give Us a Better Look

    This week, we’ll get a clearer picture of how AI might be influencing sales. While Apple is set to report a solid quarter, iPhone sales are expected to be good but not groundbreaking. Remember, the iPhone is Apple’s star product. However, what investors really want to see is growth, and it might be a while before AI truly drives that.

    Hardware Upgrades Are Setting the Stage for AI

    Apple’s AI features need strong hardware to work well. Here’s what Apple has been doing:

    • All iPhone 16 models now come with 8GB of RAM, a feature once only in Pro models.
    • The next iPhone SE will have an AI-friendly chip and more RAM.
    • All new Macs now start with 16GB of RAM, likely due to AI demands.
    • Even the cheapest iPads are getting chips that support AI.

    Rumors are swirling about even better hardware for the iPhone 17, including 12GB of RAM and enhanced cooling systems. The upcoming A19 chip will probably bring some significant AI enhancements.

    Looking Forward to a Supercycle

    Right now, the current AI features aren’t pushing a massive wave of upgrades. But give it 2-3 years, and AI will likely be a major reason for people to switch to newer models. The advantages of Apple’s AI will become too compelling to ignore.

    In short, while we’re not seeing an AI-driven supercycle yet, it’s brewing. The combination of new hardware and software will soon make older iPhones feel outdated, setting the stage for a big sales surge.

  • New security holes found in Apple’s devices

    New security holes found in Apple’s devices

    Security experts have found two major issues, named SLAP and FLOP, that affect all new iPhones, iPads, and Macs, including many older models. These flaws could let someone peek into what’s open on your web browser.

    What Are SLAP and FLOP?SLAP and FLOP are types of security problems discovered by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology. They are similar to famous security issues like Spectre and Meltdown. Both rely on a technique called “speculative execution,” where the chip tries to guess what you’ll do next to speed things up. If this guesswork goes wrong, attackers might sneak in bad data to see things they shouldn’t.

    The Dangers of These FlawsNormally, each tab in Safari is like a locked box, keeping its contents separate from others. But with SLAP, if you’re tricked into visiting a bad website, it could open those locks. It could potentially read your emails, track your location on Apple Maps, or check your bank details.

    FLOP is even trickier; it can do the same thing but also works on Chrome, making it more dangerous. These attacks don’t need any harmful software on your device; they use weak spots in Apple’s own system, making them hard to spot.

    Which Devices Are at Risk?These security issues affect any Apple device with chips from the A15 series or the M2 series and newer. Here’s a list of affected devices:

    • iPhone: iPhone 13, 14, 15, 16, and the third-generation iPhone SE.
    • iPad: iPad Air, Pro, and mini models released from 2021.
    • Mac: MacBook Air, MacBook Pro since 2022; Mac mini, Mac Studio, iMac, and Mac Pro since 2023.

    Real-World Threats?So far, there’s no proof these vulnerabilities have been used against users in real life. Apple has acknowledged the problem and has been working on fixes since they were alerted in May 2024 for SLAP and September 2024 for FLOP. Apple’s statement to Bleeping Computer suggests they don’t see these as urgent threats right now.

    The best advice for now is to be careful with the websites you visit until Apple rolls out a fix.

    Source

  • Exciting new Apple gadgets coming soon

    Exciting new Apple gadgets coming soon

    The new year of 2025 is off to a great start with Apple ready to unveil some impressive gadgets in the coming months. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect:

    M4 MacBook Air

    Apple’s beloved MacBook Air is getting a boost with the M4 chip. This update is set to include:

    • 16GB of RAM as standard
    • A new nano-texture display option
    • A 12MP camera for better video calls
    • Support for two external displays when the laptop is open
    • Better battery life
    • Keeping the familiar 13-inch and 15-inch designs

    Look for this refreshed MacBook Air sometime in February or early March.

    iPhone SE 4

    The iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a must-have for many:

    • It boasts an iPhone 14-like design with an OLED screen and no home button
    • Includes Face ID with a notch
    • Runs on the powerful A18 chip
    • Supports Apple Intelligence, previously only on higher-end models
    • Comes with 8GB of RAM and a 48MP camera
    • Has a USB-C port and Apple’s first self-made 5G modem
    • Priced to be affordable, expected under $499

    This new iPhone SE is slated for a March release.

    ‘HomePad’ Smart Display

    Apple is set to mix things up with the ‘HomePad’, a smart home device:

    • It will focus on voice commands through Siri, home control, and communication
    • You can use apps like Safari and Music, but there’s no App Store
    • The screen size is about that of two iPhones side by side
    • Includes speakers, a camera for FaceTime, and a battery
    • You can mount it on walls or place it on various surfaces
    • It’s designed with security in mind, including features for video and audio intercom

    Though initially expected in March, there might be a slight delay.

    11th Generation iPad

    Apple fans can look forward to the new 11th-generation iPad:

    • It’s likely to feature a new, faster A-series chip with 8GB RAM
    • Could include new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips
    • This update aims to keep the iPad accessible and up-to-date

    M3 iPad Air

    The iPad Air is also in line for an upgrade with the M3 chip:

    • Expected to support new keyboard accessories
    • Will maintain the 11-inch and 13-inch sizes

    Apple Watch SE 3

    There’s talk of a new Apple Watch SE:

    • Could be released in the spring, possibly alongside the iPhone SE 4
    • An update from the last SE model which came out in 2022

    These product launches promise a dynamic start to 2025 for Apple, setting the stage for an exciting year with more innovations expected at WWDC and the fall launch season.

  • Apple plans to fix security holes in Safari and Chrome for new devices

    Apple plans to fix security holes in Safari and Chrome for new devices

    Students from Georgia Tech have found two new security problems in Apple’s latest chips. These issues, called SLAP and FLOP, could let someone peek into your private internet activities like browsing history, credit card details, emails, and even where you are, just by using a bad website. You don’t need to touch the device to make this happen; a harmful webpage can do the trick by getting around Apple’s safeguards.

    These flaws affect several of Apple’s newer chips:

    • Mac laptops from 2022 onwards
    • Mac desktops from 2023 onwards
    • iPads made since 2021
    • iPhones from 2021 models onwards

    These vulnerabilities were reported to Apple back in May and September of last year, but they haven’t been fixed yet. Apple has promised to patch these security issues soon.

    Apple has shared with Bleeping Computer that they haven’t fixed these problems yet, saying, “We appreciate the researchers’ teamwork as this test improves our knowledge of these risks. We think this doesn’t present an immediate threat to our users.”

    SLAP only affects the Safari browser, while FLOP can hit both Safari and Chrome. They haven’t checked if other browsers like Firefox might have the same problem. There’s no sign yet that these attacks have happened out there in the real world. For more information on how these attacks work, you can check out the dedicated website that explains everything about SLAP and FLOP.

  • Apple Calendar app gets better with iOS 18.3

    Apple Calendar app gets better with iOS 18.3

    Apple’s Calendar app has been around forever on iPhones but hasn’t changed much over the years. However, recent updates have started to make it more useful. With iOS 18.3, there’s now another cool feature that makes using Apple’s own app even more appealing.

    Big Changes in iOS 18 for Calendar

    Apple hasn’t done much with its Calendar app for a long time, which is strange because there are so many other good calendar apps out there like Google Calendar and Fantastical. But with iOS 18, Apple finally made some changes that are quite noticeable, even if they’re not huge.

    One of the best new features is that now you can manage your reminders right in the Calendar app. You can add, change, or look at your reminders without needing to switch apps. It’s a nice touch, though it would be better if you could choose which reminder lists show up in Calendar.

    Also, iOS 18 brought a new look to the app with better text and layout, plus a new way to see your month’s events all at once.

    A New Feature in iOS 18.3 for Calendar

    If you have an iPhone 16 with Camera Control, iOS 18.3 gives you a handy tool. By holding down on the Camera Control, you unlock a feature called visual intelligence, which uses AI to understand what your camera is pointed at.

    This new update lets you do something pretty neat: if you see a flyer or poster with a date on it, you can point your camera at it, and your iPhone will ask if you want to add that event to your Calendar. It’s an easy way to keep your digital calendar up to date with what’s going on around you.

    The catch is, this feature only works with Apple’s Calendar app because you can’t set another app as the default for this purpose. This small but smart update gives you one more reason to use Apple’s Calendar instead of looking elsewhere.

  • MacBook Pro ruined in car crash, AppleCare+ claim rejected

    MacBook Pro ruined in car crash, AppleCare+ claim rejected

    A MacBook Pro owner shared a frustrating experience on Reddit after his laptop was wrecked in a car accident. Despite having an AppleCare+ plan for accidental damage, Apple declined to replace or repair the device.

    The user explained on the platform that his MacBook was severely damaged in the crash. He was shocked to learn that Apple wouldn’t cover the repair or replacement because the damage was considered too extensive.

    “I thought I was safe with AppleCare+ for accidents,” he lamented. “But they won’t replace my MacBook because it’s too broken. It feels like my money was spent for nothing.”

    Apple’s AppleCare+ policy clearly states that it covers accidental damage from handling, which includes unexpected events like drops or spills. The policy specifies that Apple can either repair the damage using genuine parts or replace the device with one that meets their standards.

    However, the policy also lists several exclusions. Two might apply here:

    • Natural Disasters: The policy does not cover damages from events like fire, floods, or earthquakes. Interestingly, it also mentions “similar external causes,” which might be interpreted to include a car crash, although this seems like a stretch.
    • Reckless Behavior: Damage resulting from reckless, abusive, or intentional actions is also not covered. Since the driver admitted the crash was his fault, one could argue that his driving might qualify as reckless, though this interpretation seems harsh.

    The situation raises eyebrows about the application of these policy terms. Accidental damage insurance is supposed to protect against, well, accidents. Excluding coverage because the damage is “too severe” or interpreting a car accident as “reckless behavior” seems to miss the point of such insurance.

    In conclusion, this case illustrates a potential gap between consumer expectations and the fine print of insurance policies. It’s a reminder for all of us to read and understand the specifics of our coverage, especially when it comes to high-value items like electronics.

    Source

  • Old Apple Watches can’t get new software update

    Old Apple Watches can’t get new software update

    The latest watchOS 11.3 update has accidentally messed up updates for some older Apple Watches, according to what people are saying on social media.

    If you have an Apple Watch Series 4, Series 5, or the first Apple Watch SE, you might run into a problem. These models can’t move to the new watchOS 11, and now, there’s a glitch that stops them from getting the last big update for watchOS 10, called watchOS 10.6.1.

    If your Apple Watch wasn’t on watchOS 10.6.1 before the new updates came out, you won’t be able to install it now. So, if you’re using one of these older watches with an older software version, you’re stuck. Also, some of these watches won’t connect to your iPhone if they’re on an older version of watchOS 10.

    This problem only affects the older models that can’t go beyond watchOS 10, specifically those not already updated to 10.6.1 from last August. Apple is expected to sort this out soon, so keep an eye out for a fix.

  • What’s new in iOS 18.3: Apple’s latest update details

    What’s new in iOS 18.3: Apple’s latest update details

    Apple has just released iOS 18.3 for everyone to download. We’ve already covered the new features, but here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new according to Apple’s official notes:

    Visual Intelligence with Camera Control (For all iPhone 16 models):

    • Add Events to Calendar: Now you can add an event to your Calendar just by snapping a picture of a poster or flyer.
    • Identify Plants and Animals: Your camera can now help you learn about nature by identifying different plants and animals.

    Notification Summaries (For iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max):

    • Manage Summaries Easily: You can now control your notification summary settings right from the lock screen.
    • New Look for Summaries: Notifications that are summarized now show up in italics and with a special icon, making them easy to spot.
    • Temporary Hold on Some Apps: Summaries for News and Entertainment apps are paused for now, but you can choose to get them back when they’re ready.

    Other Updates and Fixes:

    • Calculator: If you press equals again, it will repeat your last calculation, making quick math easier.
    • Siri: No more issues with the keyboard disappearing when you start typing a command.
    • Apple Music: Fixed a problem where music would keep playing even after you close the app.

    This update aims to make your iPhone experience smoother and more intuitive. Whether you’re organizing your schedule or just exploring the outdoors, iOS 18.3 has something to make daily tasks a bit easier.

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