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  • Important Update: iOS 18.3.1 fixes critical security flaw

    Important Update: iOS 18.3.1 fixes critical security flaw

    Apple just released a new update for iPhones and iPads, and it’s really important to install it right away. This update, called iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1, fixes a big security problem that was being used by hackers.

    According to Apple, this security issue could let someone with physical access to your device turn off a safety feature called USB Restricted Mode when the device is locked. This means someone could plug things into your phone or tablet even if it’s supposed to be secure.

    Apple explains that this issue was part of a very smart and specific attack aimed at certain people. They’ve fixed this by making the way the device handles its security states better. If you have an iPhone or iPad that can run iOS 18, you should update to iOS 18.3.1. For iPads that can’t update to the latest version, there’s also iPadOS 17.7.5 which includes this important fix.

    Updating your device will help keep your information safe from people who might try to use this vulnerability. Make sure to update your device as soon as you can to protect yourself from these kinds of threats.

  • Apple’s budget iPad gets a small update after 2.5 years, but don’t expect much

    Apple’s budget iPad gets a small update after 2.5 years, but don’t expect much

    It’s been over two years since Apple last updated its most affordable iPad, back in October 2022, when they introduced the 10th generation model. Now, after a significant wait, the 11th generation iPad is on its way, but don’t hold your breath for big changes.

    The Main Upgrade: A New Chip

    Just like the iPad mini 7 that came out last autumn, the new iPad 11 is expected to be more of a performance boost than a redesign. The big news is the upgrade from the A14 Bionic chip, which was introduced with the iPhone 12 in 2020, to the A17 Pro chip from the iPhone 15 Pro in 2023. This change should offer around a 40% increase in CPU speed.

    Also, the memory is set to double from 4GB to 8GB, which should make handling several apps at once smoother.

    New AI Features

    The iPad 11 is expected to include Apple Intelligence, bringing AI-driven features like Genmoji, Image Playground, support for ChatGPT, and an updated Siri to the cheapest iPad for the first time.

    Possible Small Changes

    Unfortunately, there aren’t many exciting new features rumored. There might be minor color updates, and possibly some improvements in connectivity like Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. There’s also a whisper about introducing Stage Manager, a feature from iPadOS 16 that’s currently limited to iPads with more advanced chips. Given the new iPad’s specs, it might finally support this multitasking tool.

    Conclusion

    Despite the long wait, this update to the iPad lineup is shaping up to be pretty modest. One of the more significant changes in recent iPad models was moving the camera to a landscape position, but that’s already in place for this model since 2022.

    Here’s hoping Apple might at least bump the storage from 64GB to 128GB. We should see this new model hit the market this spring.

  • Apple starts making its new M5 Chip

    Apple starts making its new M5 Chip

    Apple has kicked off the production of its latest M5 chip, according to reports from South Korean sources. This new chip could show up in devices as early as this year.

    The process of putting together the M5 chip began last month, as noted by ET News. This final step, called packaging, comes after the chip is made and involves protecting it and connecting it to other parts of a device.

    Apple works with a company called TSMC to make the chips on special silicon discs. After that, other companies, like Taiwan’s ASE Group, America’s Amkor, and China’s JCET, handle the packaging. Reports say ASE started first, with the others set to follow one by one.

    Right now, the focus is on making the basic M5 chip, not the more powerful versions like the M5 Pro, M5 Max, or M5 Ultra. The companies involved are also building new facilities to help produce these higher-end models later.

    The M5 chip is expected to have a better design based on ARM technology and is being made using TSMC’s advanced 3-nanometer method. Apple chose not to use an even newer 2-nanometer process, likely to keep costs down. However, the more advanced M5 versions will still be a big step up from the current M4 chips, thanks to a special stacking technique called System on Integrated Chip (SoIC).

    This stacking method layers the chips on top of each other, which helps manage heat better and reduces power loss compared to flat designs. Apple is also teaming up with TSMC on a new version of this stacking that uses a mix of materials, including carbon fiber, for even better results.

    The first device to get the M5 chip is likely to be a new iPad Pro, expected to start production in the second half of next year, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Here’s when other devices might get the M5:

    • iPad Pro: Late 2025 or early to mid-2026
    • MacBook Pro: Late 2025
    • MacBook Air: Early 2026
    • Apple Vision Pro: Fall 2025 to Spring 2026

    Hints of the M5 chip have already been found in Apple’s official code. Reports also suggest the chip’s design will help power both regular devices and Apple’s AI servers, boosting performance for both everyday users and cloud services.

    Source

  • Apple releases iOS 18.3 with new features and fixes

    Apple releases iOS 18.3 with new features and fixes

    Apple has recently rolled out iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3, bringing new features and improvements to iPhones and iPads. This update follows six weeks after the release of iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2.

    Updating Your Device

    To get the new software, simply go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone or iPad. Apple also updated iPadOS to version 17.7.4 for older iPads that can’t handle the latest iPadOS 18.

    New Features for iPhone 16

    For those with iPhone 16 models, iOS 18.3 introduces Visual Intelligence. Now, you can add events to your Calendar just by taking a picture of a poster or flyer. Plus, it’s easier to identify plants and animals around you.

    Changes in Notifications

    This update also tweaks how notifications work. It makes notification summaries easier to manage from your Lock Screen and changes their appearance to stand out better by using italic text. However, for now, summaries for news and entertainment apps are paused to avoid sending out confusing alerts.

    Bug Fixes and Enhancements

    • The Calculator app now repeats your last calculation if you tap the equals sign again.
    • Fixed a problem where the keyboard might vanish when you start typing a request to Siri.
    • An issue where music keeps playing even after you’ve closed Apple Music has been sorted out.

    Note

    Some of these new features might not be available everywhere or on every Apple device. For more on security updates, check out Apple’s support page at:

    Apple Support

    Looking Ahead

    • We’re looking forward to iOS 18.4 beta, which is expected to bring new Apple Intelligence features for Siri, enhancing your interaction with your device even further.
  • New small HomePod coming soon after long wait

    New small HomePod coming soon after long wait

    It’s been a while since we’ve seen a new model of the tiny HomePod. Launched with the iPhone 12 back in November 2020, fans have been waiting for over four years for a refresh. Good news is, it looks like the wait is almost over with a new version expected to hit the shelves by the end of this year.

    homepod mini thumb feature
    According to recent reports from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, Apple is gearing up to introduce the updated HomePod mini sometime at the end of 2025. This new model will come with Apple’s own special Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, which supports the newer Wi-Fi 6E standard. This is a step up from the Wi-Fi 4 that the current model uses, promising better and faster connections for enjoying music or using Siri.

    Though specifics are still under wraps, there’s talk that the new HomePod mini might include a more advanced “S” processor, better sound, fresh color choices, and an updated Ultra Wideband chip for quicker handoffs between devices. The current version uses the S5 chip from the 2019 Apple Watch Series 5.

    Alongside this, Apple is also rumored to be working on a new smart home hub. This device could have a display from 6 to 7 inches, set up either on a wall or on a stand with its own speaker, somewhat like the HomePod mini.

    However, while this new hub will support Apple’s smart tech, the upcoming HomePod mini won’t. For more insights on the HomePod mini, check out our detailed overview.

  • Apple’s new plan for easy-to-wear smart glasses

    Apple’s new plan for easy-to-wear smart glasses

    Apple is working on a new version of its visionOS software, which currently powers the Apple Vision Pro, to make it work with smart glasses. This move is part of their plan to offer more popular augmented reality (AR) products that are less bulky than their current headset.

    Apple’s Vision Pro Challenges

    The Apple Vision Pro, which costs $3,500, hasn’t been as successful as hoped. Many people have found it too heavy to wear for long periods, too pricey, and it also tends to get hot. Since it was released, interest has dropped, and sales haven’t met Apple’s goals.

    In his newsletter, tech journalist Mark Gurman shared that Apple’s Vision Products Group is now focusing on something lighter and more like the smart glasses Meta made with Ray-Ban. However, it might take at least three years before these glasses are ready, as there’s still a lot of research needed.

    User Studies and Software Development

    Apple is actively testing how people react to different features and interfaces for these glasses at their offices. They’ve named this project “Atlas,” which is being managed by the Product Systems Quality team. This team is part of Apple’s hardware division.

    The research is happening in a secretive spot in Santa Clara, not far from their main office in Cupertino. Last year, Apple let go of some workers there, but those left are focusing on AR tech. They also have a place to test new screen technologies.

    Future Plans for Vision Pro

    Apple is not giving up on the Vision Pro entirely. They’re planning to make a cheaper version with simpler parts, hoping to sell it for about the price of their top-end iPhone, around $1,600. They wanted to launch this model by late 2024, but they’re still perfecting the design.

    Gaming Collaboration

    Additionally, Apple is teaming up with Sony to add support for PlayStation VR2 hand controllers to the Vision Pro, aiming to make it better for gaming. This partnership has been going on for a few months now.

    By focusing on these new, more accessible AR products, Apple hopes to expand its reach in the tech market and make AR part of everyday life.

  • Apple stores set to receive new updates next week

    Apple stores set to receive new updates next week

    Apple retail stores are preparing for “merchandise and marketing updates” next week, as reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. While Gurman hasn’t directly tied these updates to a specific product launch, he pointed out that this timing aligns with Apple’s yearly release of its Black Unity watch band for the Apple Watch.

    Apple has introduced a Black Unity campaign in late January for the past four years. This campaign typically includes a new Apple Watch band, a special watch face, and an iPhone wallpaper inspired by the Pan-African flag’s colors. Recent findings in the tvOS 18.3 update code, referencing “UNITY25,” suggest the Black Unity campaign will likely return in 2025. If this is the case, Apple may announce it next week.

    Apart from the Black Unity watch band, there’s no confirmation about other product releases next week. However, Apple is anticipated to unveil new MacBook Air models featuring the M4 chip in early 2025, as well as the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds. Gurman’s update, however, didn’t hint at these products being part of next week’s announcements.

    In addition, Apple is expected to roll out iOS 18.3, macOS 15.3, and other software updates after a month of beta testing. While the upcoming merchandise updates could hint at exciting news, keeping expectations in check is wise. There’s always the chance these updates are more routine than groundbreaking.

    Source

  • How Samsung Galaxy S25 borrowed from Apple’s playbook

    How Samsung Galaxy S25 borrowed from Apple’s playbook

    Fans of both Apple and Samsung often argue about who copied whom. While Apple has faced legal challenges over design, Samsung has been quite open about taking inspiration from Apple, especially with the launch of the Galaxy S25.

    Smart Features Borrowed

    We all know Apple has been slow with its AI developments. While Samsung’s phones are packed with smart AI tools, Apple’s AI features are just starting to roll out and are pretty basic. Still, Samsung couldn’t help but notice Apple’s AI offerings.

    Apple’s AI system can work with ChatGPT and is planning to integrate with Google Gemini. Samsung followed suit, making its AI system work with external chatbots, starting with Google Gemini instead of its own Bixby.

    When you use Samsung’s Gemini, you see a text box with a bright border, much like Siri. It handles both text and voice inputs, and when you highlight text, it shows options very similar to Apple’s text editing tools, allowing you to check spelling or format as a table.

    Samsung also introduced call recording, transcription, and summarization in its phone app, features already familiar to iPhone users with iOS 18. Galaxy S25 users can now search for photos by describing them, summarize web articles, and even turn photos into drawings, much like Apple’s Image Playground.

    For privacy, Samsung’s AI can work offline, similar to Apple’s approach to limit cloud usage.

    User Interface Echoes

    During the Galaxy S25 reveal, Samsung introduced One UI 7. It features the Now Bar, which shows live updates like sports scores or timers, much like Apple’s Live Activities.

    Samsung’s camera updates mimic some iPhone features from months ago, including the ability to record in log format and tweak audio focus. They’ve also adopted a version of Apple’s Photographic Styles, giving users control over image filters and tones.

    Design Similarities

    The Galaxy S25 Ultra looks strikingly similar to the iPhone 16 Pro with its flat edges and rounded corners, moving away from Samsung’s previous curved designs. The top models now use titanium, while cheaper models stick with aluminum.

    Samsung jumped the gun on Apple’s rumored slim iPhone 17 Air with their Galaxy S25 Edge, choosing style over some features like a third camera. The protective cases for the Galaxy are almost identical to Apple’s transparent MagSafe cases.

    Moreover, Samsung’s upcoming VR headset, Project Moohan, seems inspired by Apple’s Vision Pro, even in its interface design.

    Innovation or Imitation?

    While some might see this as copying, Samsung does bring its own twist to these features. Their version of Photographic Styles, for example, allows for more creative control over image composition. However, in the tech world, where both iOS and Android offer similar functionalities, it’s clear that each company builds upon the other’s ideas to enhance user experience.

    Still, perhaps Samsung could aim for a bit more originality next time around.

  • New iPad Pro expected to launch in 2025

    New iPad Pro expected to launch in 2025

    Apple is set to launch a new iPad Pro this year, according to a report from the Korean site, The Elec. It looks like both the 11-inch and 13-inch versions will get an update at the same time.

    iPad Pro 2024

    The report suggests that this year’s iPad Pro won’t see big changes; it’ll just have some small upgrades. It will probably look a lot like the current models, so don’t expect a new look. The main update will likely be in the specs.

    The focus of the report is on LX Semicon from South Korea possibly providing display drivers for these new iPads. They’re planning to start making parts in April or May, which means we won’t see these iPads until later in the year.

    Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman mentioned earlier that Apple might have its new M5 chip ready for the iPad Pro by late 2025 or early 2026.

    The latest iPad Pros with OLED screens and the M4 chip came out in May 2024.

    In the early part of this year, Apple should also release new versions of the iPad Air and the basic iPad 11. These are expected around March or April. Gurman says the iPad 11 will have an A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM to handle Apple Intelligence, while a leak suggests the iPad Air will get an M3 chip.

    There’s no clear news on an iPad mini update this year. Since it usually gets updated every few years and just got the A17 Pro last year, it might skip an update in 2025.

    Source

  • Apple Unveils ‘HomePad’: A smart home hub with innovative features

    Apple Unveils ‘HomePad’: A smart home hub with innovative features

    Apple is set to revolutionize home tech with its upcoming ‘HomePad’, a new smart display designed to blend seamlessly into your living space. Here are the five core features that will define this device:

    1. 7-inch Square Display: Initially rumored to be a 6-inch screen, the HomePad has been upgraded to a 7-inch display. Its design resembles a square iPad, roughly the size of two iPhone 16 Pro Max models side by side, offering a compact yet functional interface.

    2. New Operating System – ‘homeOS’: The HomePad introduces a novel operating system, possibly named ‘homeOS’. This OS combines elements of the Apple Watch’s interface and the iPhone’s StandBy mode, dynamically adjusting the display based on the user’s proximity for an interactive experience.

    3. Widget Support: Following the trend set by StandBy mode, the HomePad will support widgets, allowing users to customize their home screen much like on an iPhone or iPad. While the inclusion of third-party widgets remains uncertain, Apple’s recent macOS updates suggest they might extend this functionality.

    4. Versatile Accessories: To adapt to various home environments, Apple is crafting multiple attachments for the HomePad. These include wall mounts for security panel aesthetics and bases with additional speakers for kitchen, bedroom, or office use, ensuring the device fits into your home’s aesthetic and functionality needs.

    5. Enhanced Siri with AI: Unlike current Apple home devices, the HomePad will feature an AI-enhanced Siri, thanks to integration with technologies like ChatGPT. This upgrade promises to handle a broader array of commands and understand user context better, aiming to reduce those all-too-common “I’m sorry” responses from Siri.

    The HomePad promises to be more than just a smart display; it’s envisioned as a central hub for smart home control, video calls, and more, making daily life more connected and intuitive.

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