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Search results for: “Drive”

  • Siri’s exciting makeover awaits in iOS 19

    Siri’s exciting makeover awaits in iOS 19

    Siri, Apple’s trusty virtual assistant, is gearing up for a major transformation with iOS 19, set to debut at WWDC 2025 in June. Fresh reports hint at upgrades that promise to make Siri more intuitive and powerful, elevating the iPhone experience.

    A standout feature is Siri’s enhanced ability to connect with users on a personal level. By pulling insights from your apps—like emails or reminders—Siri will deliver tailored suggestions. For instance, it could nudge you to prepare for a meeting based on your schedule. Even better, Siri is expected to juggle complex requests effortlessly, like drafting a text and updating your to-do list in one command.

    Behind the scenes, Apple is crafting a brand-new system to power Siri, aiming for quicker and more dependable responses. This overhaul comes after some bumps in previous updates, but with new leadership, including Mike Rockwell steering the project, Apple is doubling down on perfecting Siri’s performance.

    Despite earlier hiccups with Apple Intelligence, recent polls show fans are buzzing with anticipation for these AI-driven improvements. As iOS 19’s launch approaches, excitement is building for a smarter, smoother Siri that could redefine how we interact with our devices.

  • Land Rover adds wireless CarPlay to old models as iOS 18.4 brings new features

    Land Rover adds wireless CarPlay to old models as iOS 18.4 brings new features

    Land Rover has surprised many by adding wireless Apple CarPlay to some of its older vehicles, including Range Rovers that are over 15 years old. The update uses “period-correct” hardware, meaning it fits well with the car’s original design. This upgrade was shown on a 2008 Range Rover Vogue and a 2012 Range Rover Sport. These systems now allow owners to use modern smartphone features without changing the look and feel of their classic cars.

    The CarPlay setup includes a new screen, control knob, and a special software system that connects wirelessly to iPhones. It blends old and new technology, letting drivers enjoy modern convenience while keeping the vintage style. Land Rover Classic says the upgrade was made to feel just like a factory install from the early 2000s.

    At the same time, Apple has released iOS 18.4, which brings three new features to CarPlay. First, drivers can now choose which service handles music requests through Siri — for example, asking Siri to always use Spotify instead of Apple Music. Second, the Messages app on CarPlay has an improved interface, making it easier to read and reply to texts. Lastly, the Podcasts app also gets a better design, showing more details and making it easier to use while driving.

    Together, these updates make both old and new CarPlay systems more useful and enjoyable for drivers.

  • Gmail for iPhone and iPad gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

    Gmail for iPhone and iPad gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

    Google is giving Gmail on iPhone and iPad a new look by updating it with the Material You (Material 3) design style. This update changes how things look, making the app feel more modern and in line with other Google apps.

    One of the main changes is the updated top bar. It now has a rounded search field that takes up the full width, along with a profile picture on the right. The Gmail logo is now smaller and moved to the left, giving the app a cleaner appearance. This design is already used in other Google apps like Drive and Docs on iOS.

    The main screen still shows your email list, and the overall layout hasn’t changed much. However, everything looks more polished thanks to small design updates, like better use of space and more consistent colors.

    This redesign brings Gmail for iOS closer to the look of its Android version, which already received the Material You style earlier. The update started rolling out through version 6.0.240421, so if you haven’t seen it yet, it should arrive soon via the App Store.

    Google continues to refresh its apps to match the latest design trends, and this Gmail update is part of that effort to make its apps more unified and user-friendly.

  • CarPlay app now lets you stream videos in your car using a web browser

    CarPlay app now lets you stream videos in your car using a web browser

    A new app called Brcast has just arrived on the App Store, bringing a web browser to Apple CarPlay. This means drivers can now watch videos on their car’s screen by visiting websites like YouTube, Twitch, or others through the browser.

    Apple normally doesn’t allow web browsers or video streaming apps on CarPlay, but Brcast found a clever way to work around that. The app doesn’t break any rules because it doesn’t directly stream video through CarPlay. Instead, it mirrors what’s on your iPhone’s screen by using web technology in a smart way.

    To use the app, you install Brcast on your iPhone and open the website or video you want to watch. Then, it shows up on the CarPlay screen. It’s important to note that you’ll need to use your phone to control the app — the car’s screen only shows what’s already playing.

    Of course, this app is meant to be used while parked or by passengers. Watching videos while driving is not safe and should never be done. Brcast is free to download, but if you want more features — like saving your favorite websites — there’s a subscription option starting at $1.99 per month. This is a big step for CarPlay users who’ve been asking for more freedom, especially when it comes to video streaming.

  • CarPlay issues in iOS 18.4 affect many car brands

    CarPlay issues in iOS 18.4 affect many car brands

    Apple’s latest update, iOS 18.4, has brought some trouble for CarPlay users. People driving cars from brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, and BMW are reporting problems. The issues started after they updated their iPhones to this new version, causing CarPlay to act up in their vehicles.

    For some, CarPlay won’t connect at all. Others say it disconnects randomly while they’re driving. A few users even noticed their music or navigation apps freeze, making it hard to use. These glitches are annoying and can distract drivers, which isn’t safe.

    The trouble seems tied to how iOS 18.4 works with different car systems. Each brand has its setup, and the update might not play nice with all of them. Apple hasn’t said much yet, but they’re likely looking into it. For now, no quick fix is available.

    On social media, like X, drivers are sharing their frustrations. One Toyota owner wrote, “CarPlay keeps dropping since iOS 18.4—super annoying!” A Honda driver posted, “Navigation froze mid-trip. What’s up with this update?” People aren’t happy.

    If you’re having these issues, you could try restarting your iPhone or reconnecting CarPlay. Some say it helps a little, but it’s not a full solution. Another option is to wait for Apple to release a patch. They’ve fixed CarPlay bugs before, so a small update might come soon.

    Until then, drivers might need to rely on their car’s built-in system or skip CarPlay altogether. It’s a hassle, especially for those who love its features. Hopefully, Apple sorts this out fast so everyone can get back to smooth driving.

  • New goodies coming to your iPhone with iOS 18.4

    New goodies coming to your iPhone with iOS 18.4

    Apple is gearing up to roll out iOS 18.4 soon, bringing some cool updates to your iPhone. This version, set to drop in early April, packs six fresh Apple Intelligence features to make your phone smarter. One handy addition is Priority Notifications, which uses AI to spotlight the most important alerts on your Lock Screen.

    Less urgent stuff stays below, keeping things tidy. Plus, the Image Playground tool now lets you create sketches alongside its usual cartoon and drawing styles. On the CarPlay front, there’s a neat upgrade for sports fans. A new “sports mode” API will tweak the Now Playing screen for games, showing team details on either side with a big, colorful background.

    It’s built for two-team matchups, perfect for keeping up with scores on the go. Also, if your car has a larger screen, CarPlay will show three rows of app icons instead of two. And for electric vehicle drivers, Apple Maps will soon guide Ford owners to Tesla charging stations.

    These updates build on nine months of AI improvements, with more expected at WWDC 2025. While big Siri changes are still in the works, iOS 18.4 keeps things moving forward. Whether it’s smarter notifications or better driving tools, your iPhone’s about to get a nice boost. Which feature are you most excited to try? Let us know!

  • GM puts a stop to custom CarPlay upgrades

    GM puts a stop to custom CarPlay upgrades

    General Motors (GM) is taking strong action against a popular way people upgrade their cars with Apple CarPlay. Many drivers love CarPlay because it lets them use their iPhone apps, like maps and music, right on their car’s screen. However, GM has decided it doesn’t want this feature added to its older vehicles through unofficial methods.

    A company called Nifty City had been selling a kit that allowed GM car owners to add CarPlay to vehicles that didn’t come with it. This kit was a hit among drivers who wanted a modern touch in their older cars. But GM wasn’t happy about it. They sent a legal notice to Nifty City, telling them to stop selling the kit right away. GM says this kind of upgrade messes with their car systems and could cause safety problems.

    Nifty City shared the news with its customers, explaining that they had to pull the product off the market because of GM’s demands. They’re disappointed, and so are the drivers who were excited about the upgrade. Some people even wonder if GM just wants to push buyers toward newer models that already have CarPlay built in.

    This isn’t the first time GM has made headlines about CarPlay. Last year, they announced plans to drop CarPlay and Android Auto from their future electric vehicles, betting on their software instead. That decision upset a lot of fans who prefer the familiar feel of Apple’s system. Now, by blocking these custom kits, GM is doubling down on controlling how its cars work.

    For drivers who still want CarPlay in their older GM cars, this news is a letdown. They’ll have to stick with what their vehicle already has or look for other options—though those might be harder to find now. GM’s move shows they’re serious about keeping their tech their way, even if it leaves some customers frustrated.

  • Apple’s New Foldable iPhone: Great battery and super thin design

    Apple’s New Foldable iPhone: Great battery and super thin design

    Apple is working on its first foldable iPhone, and it’s shaping up to be something special. The company is focusing on making this phone super slim while still packing a strong battery. According to a report from March 21, 2025, Apple is tweaking key parts to save power and keep the device thin. This means you could get a phone that lasts longer on a single charge, even though it’s not bulky. Experts say it might have a 7.8-inch screen when opened and a smaller 5.5-inch screen on the outside. That’s a cool mix of big and small, perfect for everyday use.

    To make this happen, Apple is improving how the phone’s display works. They’re using a special part called the display driver IC, which helps the screen stay thin, run cooler, and use less energy. This is a big deal for foldable phones because they have two screens to power. Plus, the phone might be just 4.5mm thick when unfolded—way thinner than most foldables out there today. When folded, it could be between 928mm and 9.5mm thick, so it’ll still feel light and easy to carry.

    Apple’s also upgrading the hinges, which are super important for a foldable phone. They’re planning to use a material called liquid metal for the hinges. This stuff is strong and should make the screen flatter with fewer creases when you open it. A company called Dongguan EonTec will supply this liquid metal, and it’s a big step up from the tiny parts Apple has used it for before, like SIM card tools. The goal? A tougher phone that looks smoother and lasts longer.

    This foldable iPhone is expected to hit the market around late 2026. It might come with two cameras on the back, one in front, and a fingerprint sensor in the power button instead of Face ID. With a titanium body and a high-powered battery, Apple’s aiming to make a foldable phone that’s not just cool but also practical for daily life. Fans are already excited for this sleek, new gadget!

  • Apple’s iPhone ID feature expands to more U.S. states, but it’s taking time

    Apple’s iPhone ID feature expands to more U.S. states, but it’s taking time

    In some U.S. states, people can now store their driver’s license or state ID in the Wallet app on their iPhone or Apple Watch. This handy, no-touch option lets them show who they are or how old they are at certain airports, stores, or apps without pulling out a physical card. Sadly, this cool tool is spreading slowly. Apple first shared the idea back in September 2021, and over three years later, only nine states plus Puerto Rico have it ready.

    States Where It Works

    Here’s where you can use it now:

    • Arizona (started March 2022)
    • Maryland (started May 2022)
    • Colorado (started November 2022)
    • Georgia (started May 2023)
    • Ohio (started July 2024)
    • Hawaii (started August 2024)
    • California (started September 2024)
    • Iowa (started October 2024)
    • New Mexico (started December 2024)
    • Puerto Rico has it too!

    States Coming Soon

    Apple says these places plan to add it later:

    • Montana
    • West Virginia
    • Connecticut
    • Kentucky
    • Mississippi
    • Oklahoma
    • Utah
    • Illinois

    Also, Japan will join in with its My Number Card when iOS 18.4 comes out in early April.

    Airports That Accept It

    You can use the Wallet ID at security checks in these airports:

    • Baltimore/Washington (BWI)
    • Reagan National (DCA)
    • Phoenix (PHX)
    • Denver (DEN)
    • Atlanta (ATL)
    • Cincinnati (CVG)
    • Columbus (CMH)
    • San Francisco (SFO)
    • San Jose (SJC)
    • Los Angeles (LAX)
    • Honolulu (HNL)
    • Des Moines (DSM)
    • Cedar Rapids (CID)
    • Albuquerque (ABQ)
    • Hobbs (HOB)
    • San Juan (SJU)

    Apple suggests checking TSA signs at the airport to be sure it’s accepted. The TSA website has more info too. The Wallet ID also works to prove your age or identity at some U.S. shops or spots, but Apple doesn’t list which ones yet. Even though it’s growing, the wait for more states and places to catch on feels long!

  • Apple silently releases a new app to boost Apple Maps

    Apple silently releases a new app to boost Apple Maps

    Apple recently rolled out a fresh app called “Maps Surveyor” on Friday, designed for people eager to help make Apple Maps better. This app lets users gather info about their local areas—like snapping pictures—and send it straight to Apple. But it’s not open to everyone just yet.

    What’s the Deal with Maps Surveyor?

    The app’s description says, “Surveyor assists Apple in upgrading Maps by grabbing details like street sign photos and roadside sights while following a set path.” It’s free to download from the App Store, but it looks like Apple made it for a select group of users.

    Once you install it, the app asks you to open another app called Premise. This platform pays people small rewards for doing easy tasks, like answering questions, sharing personal details, or taking pictures of certain spots. In short, it’s a place where users earn cash for helping out.

    According to MacRumors, hints in the app’s code show that Apple plans to team up with Premise to invite folks to improve Maps and get rewards in return. Users will need to attach their iPhone to a mount sideways and use Maps Surveyor to snap photos along a planned route.

    A Quiet Start

    The list of companies that provide data for Apple Maps doesn’t include this new app yet—maybe because it’s brand new. Apple already uses its own cars to drive around cities worldwide, collecting info to polish up Maps. The Surveyor app seems like an extra way to get help from everyday users.

    Right now, Maps Surveyor is only available in the United States. If you’ve got an Apple device and want to pitch in, you can still use the “Report an Issue” feature in Apple Maps to share your thoughts with the team. This quiet launch shows Apple’s ongoing effort to make its mapping tool sharper and more reliable, one photo at a time!

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