Search results for: “Features”

  • iPhone satellite feature saves climber and Safari preview gets update

    iPhone satellite feature saves climber and Safari preview gets update

    A 53-year-old climber was rescued from Snowmass Mountain in Colorado thanks to the iPhone’s satellite texting feature. Stranded above 10,000 feet with a wrist injury from sliding down the snowy slope, he couldn’t walk or get a cell signal. He texted a family member using his iPhone 14 or newer, who alerted the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office and Mountain Rescue Aspen.

    Seventeen rescuers reached him at Snowmass Lake, about eight miles from the parking area, starting at 8:25 a.m. and safely evacuating him by 5:30 p.m. The sheriff’s office praised the satellite feature, urging adventurers to carry emergency devices and learn how to use them.

    This feature, available on iPhone 14 and later, also includes Emergency SOS for contacting help without cell service. Meanwhile, Apple released Safari Technology Preview 222, an experimental browser update for testing new features. It includes fixes for accessibility, design, media, rendering, scrolling, and web functions.

    Compatible with macOS Sequoia and the upcoming macOS Tahoe, it’s available via Software Update for those who download it from Apple’s website. Aimed at developers but open to all, it helps Apple improve Safari by gathering user feedback. Full details are on the Safari Technology Preview website.

  • Apple explores new AI for Siri and surveys Vision Pro users

    Apple explores new AI for Siri and surveys Vision Pro users

    Apple is working on making Siri smarter by possibly teaming up with companies like OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT, or Anthropic, who make Claude. According to recent reports, Apple has been talking with these companies to use their advanced AI systems to power Siri.

    They’re testing models that work with Apple’s private cloud servers, but no final choice has been made about replacing Siri’s current setup. Tests show Anthropic’s Claude might be the best match for Siri, though talks about costs are ongoing.

    Apple is also developing its own AI for a future Siri update, expected in iOS 27 by fall 2026, while already using ChatGPT for some Siri features in iOS 18. In another move, Apple sent out surveys to Vision Pro users to get feedback on the headset’s features, accessories, and how it compares to other devices like Meta Quest 3, PlayStation VR, and smart glasses like Meta Ray-Ban.

    The survey asked about screen quality, comfort, and the usefulness of the Vision Pro iPhone app. Apple seems curious about what users think of competing products, hinting at plans to improve Vision Pro or explore new ideas like smart glasses. These steps show Apple’s push to stay competitive in AI and mixed reality, aiming to make Siri and Vision Pro better for users.

     

  • Apple releases second beta updates for visionOS 2.6, iOS 18.6, and macOS Sequoia 15.6

    Apple releases second beta updates for visionOS 2.6, iOS 18.6, and macOS Sequoia 15.6

    Apple has rolled out the second beta versions of visionOS 2.6, iOS 18.6, and macOS Sequoia 15.6 to developers for testing. These updates, released two weeks after the first betas, are available to registered developers through the Settings app on compatible devices, requiring an Apple Developer account.

    For visionOS 2.6, no major new features have been spotted yet, but the update likely focuses on fixing bugs and improving performance for the Vision Pro. Similarly, iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, designed for iPhones and iPads, haven’t revealed significant changes.

    These updates seem to prioritize stability and minor tweaks over big additions.macOS Sequoia 15.6, meant for Macs, also appears to be a smaller update. No new features were found in the first beta, and Apple is likely wrapping up work on Sequoia as it shifts focus to macOS Tahoe, expected this fall.

    There’s talk that Apple might bring its AI features, Apple Intelligence, to China, but regulatory issues could delay this beyond macOS 15.6. These betas are early builds, so developers are testing them to ensure apps work smoothly.

    Apple will likely share more details if new features emerge. Public beta versions are expected in July, with final releases set for September. For now, these updates seem to be about polishing the experience rather than introducing flashy changes.

  • Affordable MacBook with iPhone chip in the works

    Affordable MacBook with iPhone chip in the works

    Apple is reportedly creating a budget-friendly MacBook powered by the A18 Pro chip, the same one used in the iPhone 16 Pro, according to code findings shared by MacRumors. This would be the first Mac to use an iPhone chip instead of the usual M-series chips, which provide more power for tasks like handling large memory or supporting multiple displays.

    The new MacBook, identified as “Mac17,1” in Apple’s code, is expected to feature a 13-inch screen and come in fun colors like silver, blue, pink, and yellow. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests this MacBook could hit mass production by late 2025 or early 2026, with a possible launch in the first half of 2026.

    Apple hopes this affordable model will boost MacBook sales, aiming for it to make up 20–28% of total sales. The A18 Pro chip should offer strong performance for everyday tasks and support Apple Intelligence features, though it may have less power than M-series chips for heavy-duty work.

    This MacBook could appeal to students or casual users looking for a cheaper option. There’s also speculation it might run iPadOS instead of macOS, making it feel more like an iPad in a laptop form. Pricing and exact specs, like memory or storage, are still unclear, but this could be Apple’s answer to compete with budget laptops like Chromebooks.

  • Apple’s Vision and Smart Glasses plans unveiled

    Apple’s Vision and Smart Glasses plans unveiled

    Apple has exciting plans for its Vision products and smart glasses, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. These plans stretch until 2028, with several new devices on the way. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s coming. In 2025, Apple will release an updated Vision Pro with a new M5 chip.

    This version won’t have major changes and isn’t considered a second-generation model. It’s expected to start production in the third quarter, with Apple aiming to ship 150,000 to 200,000 units. This device will stay a niche product, helping Apple keep its place in the market and use up extra parts.

    No new Vision or smart glasses products are planned for 2026. However, 2027 will bring Apple’s first smart glasses, similar to Meta’s Ray-Bans. These glasses will have multiple frame and temple options for a custom look. They won’t have a display but will include voice control, gesture recognition, audio playback, a camera for photos and videos, and AI to understand the environment around you.

    Looking ahead to 2028, Apple is working on a Vision Air, a lighter and cheaper version of the Vision Pro, and new XR glasses with advanced features. Kuo says five of these projects have set timelines, while two are still being finalized. Apple’s focus on smart glasses could spark the next big trend in consumer tech, blending style, AI, and practical features.

  • New iPhone, iPad, and AirPods updates coming in 2025

    New iPhone, iPad, and AirPods updates coming in 2025

    Apple is planning some exciting changes for its devices in 2025. The iPhone 17 base model might get a bigger screen, possibly around 6.3 inches, compared to the 6.1-inch display on the iPhone 16. This change could make videos and games more enjoyable, though it’s still just a rumor from a leaker named Ice Universe.

    There’s no word yet on other features, but a larger display could mean a fresh look for the standard iPhone. The iPad Pro is also set for a makeover, with rumors pointing to even thinner bezels around the screen. This would give the device a sleeker design and more screen space for apps, drawing, or watching content.

    The next iPad Pro, expected to launch with an M5 chip in late 2025, might use new technology to shrink the borders around the display, making it look more modern. However, this upgrade may not be ready for the next release, according to some sources.

    Meanwhile, Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 could be on the way, with hints found in a Bluetooth database. These new earbuds might launch alongside the iPhone 17 in September 2025 and could include better sound, improved noise cancellation, and new health features like heart-rate tracking.

    While details are scarce, the clues suggest Apple is working on a big update for its premium earbuds. These rumors show Apple’s focus on improving its devices with bigger screens, slimmer designs, and smarter features. Fans will have to wait until fall 2025 to see what’s real.

    Source/Via/Via

  • New Apple audio device hinted in code

    New Apple audio device hinted in code

    Apple recently updated its software code, revealing a clue about a new audio product that hasn’t been released yet. The code includes a unique Bluetooth ID number, 8239, which doesn’t match any current AirPods or Beats headphones. This discovery has sparked excitement, as it suggests Apple is working on something fresh, possibly the AirPods Pro 3.

    The hint was found in a section of the code related to device syncing, where Apple lists all its audio devices. This new ID stands out because it’s not linked to any existing product. While no specific details about the device were shared, rumors point toward the AirPods Pro 3 as a likely candidate. There’s also a chance it could be a new version of Beats headphones.

    Talk about the AirPods Pro 3 has been growing, with whispers of a launch later in 2025. People are expecting upgrades like better sound, stronger noise cancellation, and even health features such as heart rate monitoring. These improvements could make the next AirPods a big step forward.

    For now, the mystery remains, but this code discovery confirms Apple is cooking up something new. Fans are eager to see whether it’s the AirPods Pro 3 or a surprise addition to Apple’s audio lineup. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to a possible reveal, likely around the iPhone 17 event in September 2025.

  • Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple recently changed its App Store rules in the European Union to meet the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These updates, announced on June 26, 2025, allow app developers to tell users about other payment options outside the App Store, like buying directly from their websites.

    Starting with iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, users will see a new interface for installing apps from alternative app stores or developer websites. Later in 2025, Apple plans to offer a tool for developers to start these downloads directly within their apps.

    However, Apple warns that these changes might make iPhones and iPads less secure, raising risks of scams or harmful content. Despite these updates, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Apple, calling the changes “unlawful” and a “malicious compliance scheme.”

    He argues that Apple’s new fees, like a 5% commission on external purchases, hurt developers who use other payment methods. Sweeney says these rules make it tough for developers to compete fairly and limit features like automatic app updates.

    Apple disagrees with the European Commission’s push for these changes and plans to appeal, but it will follow the rules for now. The EU will review Apple’s efforts to ensure it meets DMA standards. Developers can use the new tools right away, but many are waiting to see if the fees will change.

    Source/Via

  • Apple’s Foldable iPhone camera details revealed

    Apple’s Foldable iPhone camera details revealed

    A new rumor about Apple’s upcoming Foldable iPhone, expected to launch next year, focuses on its camera setup. The device, designed to fold like a book, will likely feature two 48-megapixel rear cameras, similar to the iPhone 16 Pro’s main and ultra-wide lenses.

    This choice makes sense, as Apple aims to keep the foldable iPhone’s quality on par with its high-end models, especially with its rumored $2,000 price tag. While specific camera details are still unclear, the main camera might have a 24mm lens with a wide aperture and improved stabilization for sharper photos.

    The foldable iPhone is said to have a 7.6-inch inner display, slightly smaller than the previously reported 7.8 inches, but with the same resolution. However, changing the screen size at this stage seems unlikely, as the device is already in an advanced development phase with Foxconn.

    Production is expected to start between September and October this year, aiming for a release in late 2026. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman both predict a launch next year, though an exact date remains unconfirmed. This premium foldable iPhone promises cutting-edge features to justify its high cost.

  • New apps coming to iPadOS 26 and a watchOS 26 warning

    New apps coming to iPadOS 26 and a watchOS 26 warning

    Apple’s upcoming iPadOS 26 update will bring four new apps to all supported iPads: Phone, Preview, Journal, and Games. The Phone app lets you make and receive calls directly on your iPad, a feature many users have long wanted.

    Preview makes it easy to view and edit images or PDFs, similar to its Mac counterpart, making it perfect for quick tasks like cropping photos. The Journal app offers a simple way to write down thoughts and memories, while the Games app pulls together App Store and Apple Arcade titles with features like leaderboards and achievements.

    These additions make iPads more versatile, though some users feel the simplified iPad mode could use more multitasking options like split view. On the other hand, if you own a Hermès Apple Watch, be cautious with watchOS 26 beta 2.

    Apple warns that this update causes Hermès watches to overheat, crash repeatedly, and fail to charge, likely due to issues with the Hermès watch face. The problem also affects iOS 26 beta 2, where the Apple Watch app on iPhones won’t open if paired with a Hermès model.

    Unpairing the watch fixes the app issue, but re-pairing doesn’t work. Apple advises avoiding these betas until the next update, expected soon, resolves the crashes. Both updates are part of Apple’s 2025 software overhaul, with iPadOS 26 set to launch in September. Stay tuned for more details as public betas roll out in July.