Search results for: “Features”

  • iOS 19 to boost Apple Intelligence in more apps

    iOS 19 to boost Apple Intelligence in more apps

    Apple’s next big update, iOS 19, is coming soon, and it’s all about making the most of what Apple Intelligence already offers. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, instead of adding totally new tricks, Apple plans to spread its current smart features to more apps.

    This shift makes sense since Apple is still playing catch-up with its iOS 18 promises, especially for Siri. The company had hoped to roll out a chattier Siri with iOS 19, but that’s now been pushed back to iOS 20. For now, Siri’s big makeover is on hold.

    Beyond Siri, don’t expect huge AI surprises in iOS 19. Gurman says Apple will focus on sharing its existing tools—like summarizing text—across more parts of the iPhone experience. At the next WWDC event, Apple likely won’t drop jaw-dropping AI news. Instead, they’ll show how today’s features can work in new places.

    What does this look like? Maybe more apps will sum up long emails or articles for you. Perhaps Apple will let app makers tap into these tools with something like an API. It’s tricky to guess exactly what’s coming since Apple’s non-Siri AI is still pretty basic.

    So, iOS 19 feels like a year to steady the ship, not leap ahead. Apple is still working on a smarter Siri powered by new tech, set for iOS 19.4, but the talking part is delayed. Plus, some Siri updates promised for iOS 18.4 are slipping into next year—maybe even iOS 19. While iOS 19 polishes what’s already here, it’s clear Apple’s playing it safe for now. Still, small steps can add up!

    My Top iPhone Gear on Amazon:

    • ESR MagSafe Wallet with Kickstand, Grip, and Find My
    • Anker 2-in-1 MagSafe Charging Stand with Qi2
    • UGREEN 6.6ft USB-C Braided Cables (2-pack)
    • AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C).
  • Apple Smart Home device delayed, staff testing it at home

    Apple Smart Home device delayed, staff testing it at home

    Mark Gurman from Bloomberg says Apple has started a special testing program for its new smart home gadget, which some call the HomePad. It was supposed to launch in March, but that’s not happening anymore. The delay is because Apple is still working on making Siri smarter, which is taking longer than planned.

    Why the Delay?

    Even without the Siri troubles, the smart home device was unlikely to hit its March target. It needs new Siri features, called App Intent, that were meant to come with iOS 18.4 in April. But now, Apple has admitted those upgrades are running late. In a message to Daring Fireball, they said:

    “We’re building a Siri that knows more about you and can do tasks in your apps. It’s taking more time than we expected, and we’ll roll it out next year.”

    Rumors hinted at these Siri updates arriving with iOS 18.5 or later, but Apple’s “next year” comment suggests bigger delays. Gurman even thinks Apple might need to rethink its whole plan for Siri and Apple Intelligence. Since the smart home gadget depends on these Siri improvements, its launch has been pushed back, too.

    Testing at Home

    Even though the public won’t see it soon, Apple isn’t sitting still. Gurman reports they’ve kicked off a testing program for employees. Some staff get to bring the device home, try it out, and tell Apple what works or doesn’t. This helps fix problems before the gadget goes on sale.

    What’s This Device Like?

    Here’s a quick look at what people say the new smart home hub might offer:

    • A 7-inch square screen with a thick edge
    • A camera up top
    • A battery you can recharge
    • A new system called homeOS
    • Great for video calls like FaceTime
    • Works with lots of Apple apps
    • A handy dashboard like StandBy
    • Simple controls for your smart home
    • Support for Apple Intelligence

    The delay is a bummer, but it’s smart to wait until everything’s ready. For now, Apple’s team is testing it to make it better.

  • Apple delays “Smart Siri” for iPhone 16 and removes promo video

    Apple delays “Smart Siri” for iPhone 16 and removes promo video

    Apple’s plan to bring a smart AI helper to the iPhone 16 and other gadgets is hitting rough patches. The Apple Intelligence features that are out now aren’t working great, and more upgrades keep getting postponed. Recently, Apple shared news of another delay for its “Smart Siri” and even took down the YouTube video that showed it off.

    This isn’t new for Apple. A while back, I saw them pull the “Hello Apple Vision Pro” video, too. Back then, I wasn’t sure why, but this time, it’s obvious why the Smart Siri clip disappeared. Apple Intelligence has turned into a big headache for the company. Top leaders, like software boss Craig Federighi, are worried about how things are going.

    With the coolest AI feature delayed again, it’s no shock they yanked the video. Keeping it online would’ve just stirred up more complaints, with people pointing to it and asking where the promised tech is. Plus, why hype something that’s nowhere near ready?

    There might be another reason behind this move. Word is, some at Apple are talking about ditching the whole Apple Intelligence idea and starting over. If that happens, the new Siri could look different from what the video showed. It’d be silly to keep an old ad up for something that might never happen.

    Smart Siri was meant to be a real buddy for Apple users. It’d organize your day, let you grab info from your phone fast, and help you remember what you like to do. It was also supposed to work with apps on the iPhone 16, allowing users to do tasks without lifting a finger. But with all these setbacks, folks who got the iPhone 16 won’t see what they were promised. Honestly, I wouldn’t be shocked if the Siri update drags on past the iPhone 17 launch. Whatever Apple chooses to do next, let’s hope they can keep their word and bring something awesome to the table.

  • Apple’s AI delays spark worry among leaders

    Apple’s AI delays spark worry among leaders

    Apple made big promises about its new AI features, called Apple Intelligence, when it launched the iPhone 16. However, those tools didn’t show up as planned. Months have passed, and the company keeps pushing back the release. Now, Apple’s top leaders, including Craig Federighi, are growing anxious.

    Recently, Apple shared that its upgraded Siri and other AI features won’t arrive until at least 2026—long after the iPhone 17 hits stores. This means the iPhone 16 won’t have the full experience Apple hyped up. Some tools, like summarizing notifications and editing photos, did launch, but they’re clunky and underwhelming. It seems Apple rushed them out to keep up with the AI trend, and the results have grabbed attention for all the wrong reasons.

    The company’s bosses aren’t happy. Craig Federighi, who leads Apple’s software team, and other executives are speaking up after the latest delay news. This mess has turned into a huge headache for Apple’s image. Fans and the media are frustrated—even loyal Apple users complain online, saying the iPhone 16 feels unfinished.

    Apple Intelligence was meant to transform how people use their iPhones and other devices. It promised to fetch info fast and organize your day like a smart buddy. Instead, users are stuck with weak tools that don’t stack up to competitors. Rumors are swirling that Apple might ditch its current AI plans and start over. If that’s true, the 2026 goal could slip even further.

    This isn’t just about broken promises—it’s about timing. By the time Apple gets its AI ready, other companies might be miles ahead. For now, iPhone 16 buyers are left waiting for features they expected while Apple scrambles to fix its AI stumble.

  • Two new Apple gadgets coming this spring

    Two new Apple gadgets coming this spring

    Apple just finished a busy week of showing off new stuff, but it’s not done yet! Two exciting products are set to arrive this spring. Let’s take a look at what’s on the way.

    AirTag 2: The Next Step for Apple’s Tracker

    The first AirTag came out nearly four years ago, back in early 2021. Over time, Apple has added better privacy features and small updates through software. But now, it’s time for a real upgrade with new hardware.

    The word is that AirTag 2 will show up around May or June. People say it’ll have three big improvements:

    • A stronger signal to find it from farther away
    • A fresh wireless chip
    • Better privacy protection

    We don’t know all the details yet, but one privacy boost stands out: Apple plans to make the speaker tougher to take out. This should stop people from using it in sneaky ways, like tracking someone without permission.

    ‘HomePad’: A Cool New Smart Screen for Your Home

    The product I’m most excited about in 2025 is Apple’s ‘HomePad’—a brand-new smart display. It was supposed to come out in March, but now it’s looking more like April or later. HomePad will fit right in with Apple TV 4K and HomePod, kicking off a fresh category for Apple’s home gadgets.

    It’ll run on a new system called homeOS, blending handy tools like widgets, home controls, and apps such as Photos, Music, and Notes. You’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips around the house. There were big plans for Siri upgrades with HomePad, but Apple says those might wait. So, they could launch it first and add the fancy Siri stuff later.

    Wrapping Up Apple’s Spring Plans

    Apple’s already had a big year with the iPhone 16e, M4 MacBook Air, Mac Studio, M3 iPad Air, and A16 iPad. Now, AirTag 2 and HomePad will keep the excitement going this spring. After that, Apple’s fall lineup—like the iPhone 17 Air, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and AirPods Pro 3—will take center stage. It’s shaping up to be a packed year!

  • Apple Watch avoids import ban after winning legal fight against AliveCor

    Apple Watch avoids import ban after winning legal fight against AliveCor

    Apple recently won a big legal victory against AliveCor, a company that sued it in 2021. A federal appeals court agreed with a decision to cancel three patents AliveCor said Apple broke with its Apple Watch. This means the court also threw out a ruling from the International Trade Commission (ITC) that could have stopped Apple Watches from being brought into the U.S.

    In a message to MacRumors, Apple thanked the court and said it would keep working on new health tools for the Apple Watch. “We’re grateful to the Federal Circuit for their thoughtful review. Our teams have spent years creating top-notch health, wellness, and safety features that help people, and we’re excited to keep going,” Apple shared.

    The trouble started when AliveCor took Apple to court, claiming Apple misused its heart rate and ECG tech ideas. At first, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) said Apple was in the wrong. But after Apple asked the USPTO’s Patent Trial and Appeal Board to take another look, the board decided those patents weren’t valid, hurting AliveCor’s case.

    Even so, the ITC had suggested banning some Apple Watch sales, which Apple fought since the patents were no longer valid. While both sides appealed, the ban was paused. Now, the appeals court has backed the decision to cancel the patents, so no import ban will happen in this case.

    AliveCor told MacRumors they’re upset with the ruling and feel the court ignored key details the ITC found convincing. “This won’t stop our business or our drive to keep creating for our millions of customers,” they said. They argue this fight is about protecting small companies and future ideas from big players like Apple. AliveCor plans to keep exploring legal steps to prove their patents are valid and that Apple crossed a line.

    Last year, AliveCor lost another lawsuit against Apple about unfair competition, and they’re appealing that too. Meanwhile, Apple’s facing a separate challenge with Masimo over blood oxygen tech, where an import ban still affects U.S. Apple Watch sales. For now, Apple has turned off that feature in watches sold here and is working to fix it.

  • What new Apple gadgets to look forward to this summer

    What new Apple gadgets to look forward to this summer

    Apple recently shared news about its budget-friendly iPhone 16e, along with fresh MacBook Air and Mac Studio models powered by M4 and M3 Ultra chips. With those out of the way, let’s take a peek at what else might pop up from Apple this summer.

    Apple’s Summer 2025 Highlights

    We’re crossing our fingers for updates in at least three product areas before summer ends. Nothing’s set in stone, but here’s what’s on our radar.

    Smart Home Hub

    Apple’s cooking up a new gadget to control your smart home, kind of like a central command station. Picture an iPad-style device that could hit shelves as early as 2025, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. That said, he’s hinted that delays might push it later into the year, tied to updates in iOS 18.4 or iOS 19. Another expert, Kuo, predicts a release between April and September 2025. Gurman added in February that it’s still a few months off.

    Mac Pro

    The Mac Pro is due for a summer 2025 refresh, per Gurman. Originally, folks thought it’d get the shiny new M4 Ultra chip, but the recent M3 Ultra launch in the Mac Studio has people second-guessing. Apple’s M4 Max chip doesn’t support a beefier Ultra version down the road, so the next Mac Pro might stick with the M3 Ultra—Apple’s fastest chip yet, they say.

    AirTag 2

    Apple’s planning a new AirTag for mid-2025, Gurman reports, though another source bets on May or June. This upgraded tracker will boast a better chip for pinpointing locations, possibly the second-gen Ultra Wideband chip from the iPhone 15. To tackle stalking concerns, the speaker will be harder to yank out. The look won’t change much, but its range might stretch further for sharper tracking.

    iOS 19

    Apple will show off iOS 19 at its June 2025 developer event, with a full rollout in September alongside the iPhone 17. The word is that iOS 18 work is slowing iOS 19 down, so new features might trickle out like they did this year. One rumor hints at a Camera app redo with a visionOS-inspired style—think see-through buttons and a focus on content. A smarter Siri is in the works, too, but it might not arrive until iOS 20, says Gurman.

  • iPhone 17 Air might get a super-packed battery

    iPhone 17 Air might get a super-packed battery

    In a recent blog, Ming-Chi Kuo, an expert on Apple’s supply chain, shared some exciting news. He said the upcoming iPhone 17 Air will come with a “high-density” battery, which could mean better power for this super-slim phone.

    Kuo mentioned that this new iPhone, expected to fold, will use the same kind of battery as the ultra-thin iPhone 17. These high-density cells pack more energy into a small space. He didn’t give exact numbers for how much power they’ll hold, though.

    People have worried that the iPhone 17 Air’s thin design might mean a weak battery. After all, a smaller body leaves less room for a big battery. But it looks like Apple’s got some tricks up its sleeve! Three rumored features could help this phone last longer than expected. First, there’s that high-density battery. Second, Apple’s new C1 modem chip saves energy. And third, skipping the Ultra Wide camera frees up space inside for a bigger battery.

    Apple is likely to show off the iPhone 17 Air in September. Kuo says it’ll be just 5.5mm thick at its slimmest spot, making it one of the thinnest iPhones ever. With these smart design choices, the iPhone 17 Air might surprise us all with how long it can go between charges.

  • 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?

  • New iPad with A16 chip misses out on Apple Intelligence

    New iPad with A16 chip misses out on Apple Intelligence

    Apple just released an updated version of its basic iPad, now powered by an A16 chip. Sadly, this new model still doesn’t support Apple Intelligence, the company’s latest AI feature. According to Apple’s official tech details, Apple Intelligence isn’t included on this entry-level iPad. This matches what we see with its specs—no AI capabilities here.

    Back in January, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg predicted something different. He claimed the new basic iPads—labeled J481 and J482—would come with a faster A17 Pro chip, the same one in the iPad mini. He also said they’d jump from 4GB of memory to 8GB, enough to run Apple Intelligence. His guess? These upgrades would bring the AI features to the budget iPad.
    Turns out that rumor didn’t pan out.

    Instead, a private X account with a solid history of accurate leaks nailed it. They said the entry-level iPad would stick with the A16 chip—and they were right. No A17 Pro or extra memory boost happened. This leaves the basic iPad as the only one in Apple’s current lineup without Apple Intelligence. If you want those fancy AI tools, you’ll need an iPad Pro or iPad Air with an M1 chip or later, or the newest iPad mini with the A17 Pro chip. Those models have what it takes to run the feature.

    For now, the entry-level iPad keeps things simple with the A16 chip. It’s a step up from the older A14, but it’s clear Apple’s holding back the big AI upgrade for this one. Fans hoping for more might feel a little let down, but the update still brings a bit of fresh power to the budget-friendly device.