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Search results for: “Features”

  • Why is the iPhone 16e so close to having MagSafe?

    Why is the iPhone 16e so close to having MagSafe?

    One of the strangest things about the iPhone 16e is that it doesn’t fully support MagSafe. This missing feature surprised so many people that Apple felt the need to explain why they left it out. But here’s the twist: the phone seems to be almost ready for MagSafe, which makes the decision even more puzzling.

    Three Great Things About MagSafe

    The iPhone 16e comes with plenty of top-notch features, but MagSafe isn’t one of them. That’s a big deal because MagSafe brings three awesome perks. First, it makes wireless charging super simple. You just place your phone near the charger, and it snaps right into the perfect spot—no more fumbling around.

    Second, it speeds up wireless charging. Older Qi chargers topped out at 7.5 watts, but MagSafe and Qi2 bump that up to 15 watts. Other iPhone 16 models even hit 25 watts with the newest MagSafe chargers. Third, MagSafe unlocks a bunch of cool accessories—like car mounts, wallets, and camera stabilizers—that stick to your phone with magnets.

    Apple’s Odd Explanation

    Apple’s reason for skipping MagSafe? They say the people buying the 16e don’t use it. According to them, this phone is aimed at folks who prefer plugging in a cable over wireless charging. They think these buyers are upgrading from older models like the iPhone SE or iPhone 11, which didn’t have MagSafe. But that logic feels shaky—those phones didn’t have MagSafe, so of course those users didn’t rely on it!

    The iPhone 16e’s Hidden Surprise

    Here’s where it gets interesting. David Price from Macworld found that the iPhone 16e actually has some MagSafe magnets inside—it’s just not strong enough to work perfectly. I tested this myself by taking my 16e out of its case and placing it near an old MagSafe charger. To my surprise, the charger stuck to the phone! The connection was weak, but it held. Price even shared a video showing the charger lifting off a table to snap onto the phone.

    The catch? This only works without a case, and the magnets aren’t powerful enough to hold the phone on a standing dock. Still, it’s odd that Apple included some magnets but didn’t go all in on MagSafe. Why get so close and then stop?

  • 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!

  • iOS 18.4: Developer Beta 2 arrives

    iOS 18.4: Developer Beta 2 arrives

    Apple recently rolled out the second beta of iOS 18.4 for developers. For folks in the USA, this update doesn’t pack big changes yet, but it’s a game-changer for users in other regions. Why? It finally unlocks all the Apple Intelligence features that were missing before. We’ve gathered the key updates for you to check out.

    In Beta 1, there were some cool additions, like better CarPlay features, support for robot vacuum cleaners through Matter, and smarter notification sorting. Now, with Beta 2, you can expect a bunch of fixes to smooth out the bugs from the first round.

    If there’s anything else sneaky or exciting hiding in this update, don’t worry—we’ll dig it up and let you know, just like always. This release keeps things moving forward for developers, giving them a chance to test and tweak their apps. For everyone else, it’s a peek at what’s coming when the final version drops. Stay tuned for more!

  • 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!

  • New MacBook Air reveal could happen soon — Here’s When

    New MacBook Air reveal could happen soon — Here’s When

    Now that the iPhone 16e is out for customers, Apple seems ready to share its next big thing any day now.

    MacBook Air Gets a Boost

    Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple might unveil new MacBook Air models with the M4 chip as soon as this week.

    “I think the M4 MacBook Air will show up as early as this week,” Gurman posted on X today. “Stock is running low, and Apple’s gearing up for a Mac announcement soon.”

    He also mentioned this in his Power On newsletter today.

    Look out for the new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Airs powered by the M4 chip, which has a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. Apple already added M4 chips to the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini last October, and tests show it’s up to 25% faster than the M3 chip for heavy tasks. Last fall, Apple bumped the base RAM in MacBook Airs from 8GB to 16 GB. The top RAM choice might jump to 32GB this time. Battery life should last longer, too.

    Cool Camera and Display Upgrades

    Following the MacBook Pro’s lead, the new MacBook Air will likely get a 12-megapixel camera with Center Stage. This keeps you in the frame during video calls, even if you move. It might also include Desk View, showing both your face and your desk from above. These features work in apps like FaceTime and Zoom and were once only on iPads or Macs with a Studio Display.

    The new models could have three Thunderbolt 4 ports (up from two Thunderbolt 3 ports) and support two external screens, even with the lid open. A nano-texture display, which cuts glare with a special coating, might come too—though Apple could save that for the MacBook Pro to keep them different. No big look changes are expected. The MacBook Air got a fresh design in 2022.

    When and How?

    If these MacBook Airs drop this week, expect a press release on Apple’s Newsroom site and maybe a YouTube video. There could be a surprise or two as well!

  • Siri’s big update might wait until iOS 18.5

    Siri’s big update might wait until iOS 18.5

    Last month, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hinted that Apple could delay some of Siri’s exciting new Apple Intelligence features until iOS 18.5. His latest update suggests this is looking more and more likely.

    Siri’s Personal Touch in iOS 18

    Originally, Apple aimed to roll out these Siri improvements with iOS 18.4. But due to some hiccups and bugs, it seems the company has shifted gears to iOS 18.5 instead. The first test version of iOS 18.4, released recently, didn’t include any of these promised upgrades.

    In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman shared that iOS 18.5 will bring the real magic. He wrote:

    • The next update, iOS 18.5, is where the cool stuff lands. Expect a smarter Siri with AI powers, as shown last June, plus Apple Intelligence support for users in China.
    • Apple’s team has been quietly testing iOS 18.5 since early February, according to visitor logs spotted by MacRumors.

    When Can We Expect It?

    Gurman predicts that iOS 18.5 will hit devices in May, though testing might kick off earlier. He added:

    • This new Siri will show if Apple can bounce back strong. It’s set to launch in May, almost a year after its big reveal.
    • There’s still a slim chance some Siri tweaks could sneak into a later iOS 18.4 test version, but Gurman’s betting on iOS 18.5 for now.

    What’s Coming to Siri?

    The update promises neat tricks like noticing what’s on your screen, understanding your details, and giving you better control within apps. For instance, at WWDC 2024, Apple demoed Siri helping an iPhone user check their mom’s flight and lunch plans by pulling info from Mail and Messages.

    Which iPhones Get It?

    You’ll need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 model to enjoy Apple Intelligence.

  • What’s coming to your iPhone with iOS 19

    What’s coming to your iPhone with iOS 19

    The iOS 19 update is still a few months away, but exciting whispers about what’s next for your iPhone are already spreading. Here’s a simple rundown of what we’ve heard so far.

    A Fresh Look for the Camera App

    One big rumor is a brand-new Camera app. Back in January, Jon Prosser from Front Page Tech shared a YouTube video showing off what it might look like. The standout change? See-through menus for camera settings, inspired by the sleek style of visionOS, which runs Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

    This redesign lets you see more of the camera’s viewfinder than in iOS 18. The controls are split into Photo and Video sections at the bottom. You’ll find options like recording spatial videos, setting a photo timer, and tweaking video resolution or frame rate, which pop up at the top when needed. It’s unclear if this cool, visionOS-like style will spread to other parts of iOS 19, but it’s a possibility!

    A Smarter, Chatty Siri

    Siri is getting a major upgrade in iOS 19. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says it’ll be “more talkative” thanks to smarter tech, making it act more like ChatGPT. This means Siri could handle trickier questions and tasks. Apple might show off this new Siri when they announce iOS 19, but it won’t fully launch until spring 2026—likely with iOS 19.4. For now, iOS 18.2 brings ChatGPT to Siri, with Google Gemini joining later, plus other handy upgrades in iOS 18.4 or 18.5.

    Features Rolling Out Over Time

    Expect many of iOS 19’s goodies to arrive in stages, from iOS 19.1 to 19.4, rather than all at once.

    Which iPhones Will Work?

    According to iPhoneSoft.fr, iOS 19 should run on every iPhone that supports iOS 18. That includes models from the iPhone XS and XR (released in 2018) up to the iPhone 16 series. Some features might skip older phones, though.

    When’s It Coming?

    Apple will likely tease iOS 19 at WWDC in June 2025, with betas starting then and the full release hitting in September. Get ready for a fresh iPhone experience!

    Compatible iPhones

    • iPhone 16
    • iPhone 16 Plus
    • iPhone 16 Pro
    • iPhone 16 Pro Max
    • iPhone 15
    • iPhone 15 Plus
    • iPhone 15 Pro
    • iPhone 15 Pro Max
    • iPhone 14
    • iPhone 14 Plus
    • iPhone 14 Pro
    • iPhone 14 Pro Max
    • iPhone 13
    • iPhone 13 mini
    • iPhone 13 Pro
    • iPhone 13 Pro Max
    • iPhone 12
    • iPhone 12 mini
    • iPhone 12 Pro
    • iPhone 12 Pro Max
    • iPhone 11
    • iPhone 11 Pro
    • iPhone 11 Pro Max
    • iPhone XS
    • iPhone XS Max
    • iPhone XR
    • iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
  • Apple’s plan to build its own tech: What’s Coming Next

    Apple’s plan to build its own tech: What’s Coming Next

    Back in 2020, Apple decided to switch from Intel chips to its own Apple Silicon for Macs. This big change worked out well. In less than three years, Apple created chips that were quicker and used less power than Intel’s, making their devices better. Now, Apple is taking on Qualcomm. They’ve started with the C1 modem in the new iPhone 16e. It’s the first step toward controlling all their networking tech themselves.

    What’s Next for Modems: C2 and C3

    The C1 modem, launched with the iPhone 16e, focuses on saving battery life. It doesn’t handle super-fast 5G mmWave or match Qualcomm’s full range yet. Still, it’s solid and works well. Apple calls it the “most energy-saving modem ever in an iPhone,” offering fast and steady 5G.

    The C1 won’t be in most iPhone 17 models but might show up in the iPhone 17 Air, where saving power matters for its slim design. Meanwhile, Apple is already planning to build better modems. The C2, nicknamed Ganymede, is set for the iPhone 18 in 2026 and iPads in 2027.

    It’ll match Qualcomm with faster downloads and stronger connections. Then, in 2027, the C3 (Prometheus) will roll out with the iPhone 19, aiming to beat Qualcomm with smarter features and satellite support. Apple’s also thinking about adding cellular to MacBooks by 2026, thanks to these homegrown modems.

    New Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Chip

    Apple isn’t stopping with modems. They’re also replacing Broadcom’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips. A new chip, called Proxima, could launch this year in updated HomePod minis and Apple TVs. It’ll support speedy Wi-Fi 6E and might even act as a mini router. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts it’ll hit the whole iPhone 17 lineup, boosting how Apple devices connect and cutting costs. It’ll reach iPads and Macs by 2026, too.

    Combining Chips for the Future

    Down the road, Apple wants to blend its modems into the main Apple Silicon chip. Instead of separate pieces like the A18 and C1, it’d all be one unit. This could save money and power, but it’s not happening until at least 2028. Apple’s pushing hard to build more of its own tech, and these changes show they’re just getting started.

  • iPhone 16e teardown

    iPhone 16e teardown

    Apple kicked off the iPhone 16e launch with a bunch of fresh video ads on release day, March 01, 2025. They dropped six short clips and one main ad, all pushing a clear idea: this phone is perfect for everyday folks. The videos spotlight cool features and perks, making it a top pick for regular users.

    What’s Special About the iPhone 16e?

    The ads zoom in on a few standout points:

    • Toughness: Apple says people drop their phones about 208 times a year, so this one’s built to last.
    • Battery Power: It’s the longest-lasting battery ever in an iPhone this size.
    • Camera Magic: One ad claims its single camera does so much that you might not need more.
    • Smart Tools: Two clips show off Apple Intelligence tricks like Genmoji and Clean Up.
    • Ready for Tomorrow: A fun ad with a guy and his older self calls it “future-ready.”

    There’s also the big “Meet iPhone 16e” video, featuring a quirky blue inflatable figure dancing with the phone. It’s odd, but it grabs attention! These ads nail what most people want in a phone. The iPhone 16e feels like a smart choice for anyone planning to stick with one device for years.

    Inside the iPhone 16e

    A YouTube channel, REWA Technology, posted a teardown video today, giving us a peek inside. Apple’s launch video mentioned a new layout that fits a bigger battery. The iPhone 16e packs a 4,005 mAh battery, 12% more than the iPhone 16’s 3,561 mAh. In simpler terms, it’s 15.55 watt-hours versus 13.83 watt-hours for the iPhone 16.

    This battery also has a handy trick: special glue that loosens with a low zap from a 9V battery or USB-C charger. This started with last year’s iPhone 16 models and might spread to the iPhone 17 Pro soon. The teardown also shows the A18 chip and Apple’s own C1 modem, though repairs could be trickier this time. Plus, there’s no MagSafe for wireless charging. The iPhone 16e hit stores today after pre-orders, ready for anyone to grab at Apple locations. It’s a solid, user-friendly phone with a lot to offer!

  • iOS 18 brings a handy Calendar upgrade

    iOS 18 brings a handy Calendar upgrade

    Apple’s Calendar app stayed pretty much the same for years, but lately, it’s been getting better fast. With iOS 18, there’s one new feature I’ve wanted for a long time, and it’s turned out to be a game-changer: Reminders now work right inside the Calendar app.

    A Clear Daily Plan with Reminders Built In

    Before this update, the Calendar and Reminders apps on the iPhone didn’t talk to each other—they were totally separate. But now, iOS 18 mixes the basic features of Reminders into Calendar. For me, this is a big win because I can finally see my whole day in one spot. With this new setup, all my scheduled reminders show up next to my calendar events. I rely on reminders a lot to keep track of home chores and work tasks.

    In the past, figuring out my day meant flipping between two apps—Calendar and Reminders. Just checking Calendar wasn’t enough since I’d miss key tasks I’d set up. Now, though, everything’s together. My reminders line up in order with my events, so one quick look at the Calendar app tells me exactly what’s ahead.

    One Small Catch, But Still a Great Change

    There’s just one downside: you can’t pick and choose which Reminders lists show up in Calendar. It’s either all your scheduled reminders or none at all.

    Even with that little hiccup, blending Reminders into Calendar has been awesome. It’s made my daily planning so much smoother and easier. This upgrade might sound simple, but it’s honestly made a huge difference for me.

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