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  • Apple’s new smart home device teased in tvOS 18.4 Beta

    Apple’s new smart home device teased in tvOS 18.4 Beta

    The latest tvOS 18.4 beta update has dropped some exciting clues about Apple’s upcoming smart home hub. People at MacRumors spotted something called the ChatKit framework in the tvOS code. This is interesting because neither Apple TV nor HomePod has a Messages app right now.

    The ChatKit feature in tvOS 18.4 brings things like reactions and alerts for iMessage tapbacks—think “John didn’t like this” or “Sara added a heart.” These don’t make sense for Apple TV or HomePod, which both use tvOS. But the new smart home hub, also running on tvOS, might use them.

    This “command center” Apple is working on could come with built-in apps, and Messages might be one of them. Since tvOS and iOS share some code, this ChatKit addition could just be a carryover from iOS. Still, it’s new to tvOS with this beta, so it’s worth paying attention to.

    Apple’s smart home device will be a control center for your connected gadgets. Beyond that, it’ll handle video calls, photo viewing, web browsing, music, news, and more. Picture a tiny iPad—just six inches wide—with a sleek, all-screen look. You could place it on a table or hang it on a wall, and it might pop up in multiple spots around your home. It’ll also have sensors to check the room’s temperature or notice when someone’s nearby.

    There’s no set launch date yet, but rumors point to sometime between April and September 2025. This little gadget could be a game-changer for Apple fans who want a smarter, more connected home. For now, the tvOS 18.4 beta is keeping us guessing about what’s next!

  • 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.

  • Affordable new Magic Keyboard unveiled for iPad Air with cool upgrades

    Affordable new Magic Keyboard unveiled for iPad Air with cool upgrades

    Apple recently launched the M3 iPad Air and iPad 11, and now it’s introduced a neat new accessory to go with them. The Magic Keyboard for iPad Air has been updated with some awesome features borrowed from the M4 iPad Pro’s version. Let’s check out what’s new!

    iPad Air’s Magic Keyboard Gets a Fresh Look

    According to Apple:

    The redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad Air makes it easier to get things done, all at a lower price. It has a bigger trackpad that’s super accurate for tricky tasks, plus a new row of 14 keys for quick controls like adjusting brightness or sound. It snaps on magnetically, and the Smart Connector instantly links it up for power and data—no Bluetooth needed. There’s also a sturdy aluminum hinge with a USB-C port for charging. Starting at just $269 for the 11-inch size and $319 for the 13-inch, this keyboard keeps its sleek floating style and comes in white. This updated Magic Keyboard for iPad Air picks up some of the best tricks from the M4 iPad Pro’s keyboard, which I adore.

    Here’s what they share:

    • A larger trackpad for easier use
    • A handy row of shortcut keys

    One small difference? The iPad Air version doesn’t have the fancy trackpad vibration feedback. It also skips the aluminum area near the trackpad. But overall, the two keyboards are pretty similar. Both come in 11-inch and 13-inch options. While it’d be cool to have just one Magic Keyboard for all iPads, the super-slim iPad Pro probably needs its special fit.

    Pricing and Which iPads Work with It

    The iPad Air’s Magic Keyboard is cheaper since it skips a couple of extras:

    • 11-inch: $269 (compared to $299 for iPad Pro’s)
    • 13-inch: $319 (compared to $349 for iPad Pro’s)

    It works with these iPads:

    • iPad Air 11-inch (M3, M2, 5th, and 4th gen)
    • iPad Air 13-inch (M3, M2)

    You can grab it now from Apple’s online store, with delivery by Wednesday, March 12.

  • New MacBook Air arrives this week: what’s coming?

    New MacBook Air arrives this week: what’s coming?

    Apple’s boss, Tim Cook, dropped a hint about a fresh product this week with a quick video saying, “There’s something in the Air.” The “Air” clue and the timing suggest we’re about to see new MacBook Airs with the M4 chip.

    • Design – The new MacBook Air will stick to two sizes: 13 inches and 15 inches. Don’t expect a big makeover—there’s no buzz about a new style. The last design update was in 2022, so the look should stay familiar, just like today’s models.
    • Screen – Apple’s fancy mini-LED screens are for the MacBook Pro, so the MacBook Air will likely keep its usual Liquid Retina Display (think LED). The MacBook Pro recently got a matte display option, and while it might show up on the Air, it’s not a sure thing—it could stay a Pro-only perk.
    • M4 Chip – The M4 chip is already in the MacBook Pro, iMac, iPad Pro, and Mac mini, so it’s no shock it’s coming to the MacBook Air. It’s got up to 10 CPU cores, 10 GPU cores, and a 16-core Neural Engine. Built with a super tiny 3-nanometer process, it’s made for Apple Intelligence. It’ll beat the M3, but don’t expect a huge leap—think about 25% better performance.
    • Memory – Last year, Apple bumped the MacBook Air’s starting memory to 16GB from 8GB. That’s staying the same for the new ones—no changes here.
    • Battery – Thanks to the M4’s efficiency, battery life might get a boost. For example, the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro lasts up to 24 hours streaming video or 16 hours browsing online.
    • Camera – The MacBook Pro’s new 12-megapixel FaceTime camera could come to the Air. It has Center Stage to keep you in focus during video calls and Desk View to show off your desk from above.
    • Ports – Right now, the MacBook Air has two Thunderbolt 3 ports. The new ones might jump to three Thunderbolt 4 ports for faster connections.
    • Price – The M3 MacBook Air starts at $1,099, and no price hikes are rumored for the M4.
    • Old Models – The M2 MacBook Air, priced at $999, might get swapped for an M3 version—or stick around if upgrading costs too much.
    • Surprise “Air” Stuff? – The M4 MacBook Air is the star, but Apple could sneak in updates for other “Air” products like the iPad Air or AirTags next year.
    • Launch Details – No big event is planned—expect a press release and videos, with the MacBook Air possibly out tomorrow!
  • iFixit explores iPhone 16e and its new C1 Modem

    iFixit explores iPhone 16e and its new C1 Modem

    iFixit recently posted a teardown video where they carefully took apart the iPhone 16e to check out what’s inside. The iPhone 16e comes with a handy feature: its battery glue can loosen up with a small jolt of electricity, just like the other iPhone 16 models. This makes swapping out the battery a bit easier.

    A previous teardown showed that the iPhone 16e has a 15.55 Wh battery, which is larger than the 13.83 Wh one in earlier models. iFixit explains that Apple fit this bigger battery because the phone’s single-lens back camera leaves extra room inside.

    The teardown also gives us a good peek at Apple’s new C1 modem, tucked under the RF board. It looks a lot like the Qualcomm X71M modem, with a 4nm design and some memory built in. However, the 7nm signal boosters are separate from the modem itself.

    iFixit wasn’t too happy with some of Apple’s choices, though. For example, fixing the USB-C port is a hassle because you have to take out everything inside the phone first. Still, they gave a nod to some repair-friendly updates. Thanks to changes in iOS, parts pairing isn’t as strict anymore.

    Plus, there’s a small metal piece that keeps a delicate cable safe when you open the phone, which is a nice touch. In short, while the iPhone 16e isn’t perfect for repairs, it’s moving in a better direction with these small but helpful tweaks.

  • 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!

  • Tim Cook hints at exciting Apple reveal this week: ‘Something Fresh Is Coming’

    Tim Cook hints at exciting Apple reveal this week: ‘Something Fresh Is Coming’

    Today, Apple’s boss, Tim Cook, shared a fun update on social media. He posted a quick video on X with the words, “There’s something in the air,” teasing a new product drop this week.

    A New MacBook Air Is on the Way

    This sneaky hint points to a fresh MacBook Air announcement soon. Word is, it’ll run on a shiny new M4 chip and keep the same 13-inch and 15-inch sizes as the current version.

    The M4 chip is set to bring some cool upgrades. Right now, the MacBook Air tops out at 24GB of memory, but the new one might jump to 32 GB. It’s also expected to have faster performance, two extra CPU cores, and a sharper 12MP Center Stage camera.

    Plus, the M4 MacBook Air will handle external screens better. The M3 version can run two extra displays, but only if the laptop’s lid is shut. The new model will let you use two external screens and the built-in display at the same time—similar to the basic M4 MacBook Pro.

    Could an iPad Air Join the Party?

    Apple might also unveil a new iPad Air this spring. Bloomberg says the MacBook Air update is up first, but Mark Gurman hinted today that a double reveal—iPad Air and MacBook Air—could happen. This makes sense since iPad Air stock is running low.

    Keep an eye on 9to5Mac for all the juicy details about Apple’s big news this week. Fun fact: the “something in the air” line isn’t new! Apple used it way back in 2008 when they launched the very first MacBook Air. Nostalgia, anyone?

  • 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!

  • Fresh Apple gadgets could arrive soon

    Fresh Apple gadgets could arrive soon

    Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple is gearing up to reveal new products, maybe as soon as next week. Among them are a shiny new M4 MacBook Air, plus updated iPad Air and basic iPad models. The MacBook Air news is super close, while the iPads might take a bit longer.

    What’s Coming This Spring?

    After the iPhone 16e hit the scene, everyone’s buzzing about what Apple’s got next. Rumors point to a spruced-up iPad Air, a new iPad 11, and an M4 MacBook Air—all due for a fresh look soon.
    Gurman notes that stores are running low on the current basic iPad and M2 iPad Air. That’s a big hint that new versions are on the way. We saw the same thing with the iPhone SE 3 stock before the iPhone 16e dropped.

    Here’s a quick recap: The iPad 11 should get a boost with the A17 Pro chip, making it Apple’s budget-friendly option with Apple Intelligence. The iPad Air might see some inside upgrades, like an M3 chip and a new Magic Keyboard.

    When Will We See Them?

    All these goodies are set to roll out this spring, though some will pop up sooner. Gurman predicts a Mac announcement could hit as early as next week—probably the M4 MacBook Air. The iPad updates are coming too, but don’t expect them in the next few days, per his latest scoop.

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