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Search results for: “Update”

  • 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.

  • Celebrating Black History Month: Apple’s new unity collection

    Celebrating Black History Month: Apple’s new unity collection

    For Black History Month this February, Apple has introduced a special Unity Collection, featuring a unique Unity Sport Band for the Apple Watch, a new Unity Dance watch face, and matching wallpapers for both iPhone and iPad.

    Apple’s 2025 Unity Collection

    The Unity Sport Band is now available for purchase, while the new watch face and wallpapers will come with the latest software updates, iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and watchOS 11.3, which are set to roll out this week after extensive testing.

    According to Apple, this collection celebrates the spirit of togetherness, with contributions from Black artists and supporters within the company.

    “The Unity Collection, named Unity Dance, beautifully incorporates the colors of the Pan-African flag – black, green, and red,” explains Apple’s announcement. “The Unity Sport Band is designed with a special pattern where the loops change color, showing green on one side and red on the other.”

    The Unity Dance watch face is innovative, displaying numbers made from threads of red, green, and yellow that morph from abstract art into clear time digits when you lift your wrist. The wallpapers for iPhone and iPad also echo this theme, using the same unique typography to spell out “Unity.”

    Note: Discussions about this topic are hosted in our Political News section. All can read, but only members with 100 or more posts can contribute to the conversation.

  • Easier camera controls on iPhone 16 for faster photos

    Easier camera controls on iPhone 16 for faster photos

    The iPhone 16’s new Camera Control button is a great addition, but the default settings might not suit everyone. By tweaking a few options in the Settings app, you can make it quicker and more reliable for capturing photos. Here’s how to simplify and speed up your photography experience.

    Launch the Camera Instantly

    In the past, iPhones like the iPhone 11 Pro Smart Battery Case and the iPhone 15 Pro Action Button offered handy camera shortcuts. The iPhone 16 takes it further with a dedicated shutter button, but its default setup requires multiple presses: one to wake the screen, another to open the camera, and a third to snap a photo.

    Luckily, Apple introduced a fix through a software update. To speed things up, go to Settings > Display & Brightness and turn off Require Screen On under Camera Control. Now, one press launches the Camera directly, just like older tools.

    Make Camera Control Simpler

    If you find the light-press feature too sensitive, you can disable it. Light-press gestures can sometimes cause accidental swipes or missteps, so turning them off helps you maintain control.

    To adjust this, head to Settings > Camera > Camera Control > Accessibility and switch off Light-Press under Controls Gesture. While swipes remain active for accessing camera settings, disabling Light-Press minimizes unintentional actions.

    If you still want to lock focus and exposure, you can enable it separately. This feature works by lightly pressing and holding, offering precise control without interfering with basic camera functions.

    Final Thoughts

    After tweaking these settings, Camera Control becomes much faster and easier to use. You can launch the camera with a single press and avoid unnecessary delays. While swipe gestures let you adjust settings like zoom and exposure, many users may prefer the simplicity of the touchscreen for such tasks.

    For those who value simplicity, you can even turn off swipe gestures entirely. This turns Camera Control into a straightforward shutter button while keeping advanced features accessible through the main camera interface. With these adjustments, the iPhone 16’s Camera Control is not just functional—it’s effortless.

  • iOS 18.4 Expected in April: Rumored features you should know

    iOS 18.4 Expected in April: Rumored features you should know

    As reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is expected to release iOS 18.4 in April. While the beta testing phase hasn’t begun yet, a few exciting updates are rumored to be part of the new version.

    Big Updates to Siri

    iOS 18.4 may introduce significant improvements to Siri, marking a new step forward with Apple Intelligence. Three key upgrades are expected:

    • Personal Context: Siri will better understand your preferences and habits.
    • On-Screen Awareness: It will respond more effectively to what’s displayed on your device.
    • App Integration: Siri could interact with apps in smarter ways to perform tasks for you.

    These changes aim to make Siri more personalized and intuitive.

    Expanded Language Support

    When iOS 18.2 launched, Apple hinted at adding new language options for Apple Intelligence in 2025. With the April update, the list may grow to include languages like Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, and more. English variants for regions such as India and Singapore are also part of the plan. Additional languages will roll out throughout the year.

    New Emoji Additions

    As in previous spring updates, Apple is likely to introduce new emojis with iOS 18.4. The Unicode Consortium has already revealed this year’s batch, which includes:

    • Fingerprint
    • Face with bags under eyes
    • Harp
    • Root vegetable
    • Leafless tree
    • Splatter
    • Shovel

    These emojis will enhance communication with more creative options. While Apple hasn’t officially confirmed these updates, the anticipated features hint at a more dynamic and user-friendly experience with iOS 18.4. Stay tuned for more details as the release approaches!

  • How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    Sometimes, you may want to use your MacBook with the lid closed. For example, you might connect it to an external monitor to free up desk space or let it continue downloading files or playing music without interruptions. However, by default, closing the lid puts the MacBook to sleep. Here’s how to prevent that.

    Using a MacBook with the Lid Closed

    Modern MacBooks and macOS versions make it easier to keep your Mac running with the lid shut. To do this, you’ll need an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse (wired or Bluetooth).

    1. Connect an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
    2. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled, and your devices are paired if they are wireless.
    3. Close the MacBook lid once the desktop appears on the external monitor.
    4. If the screen turns off momentarily, press a key or move the mouse to wake the display.
    5. In some cases, your Mac may need to be plugged into a power source to stay awake.

    Note: Without an external monitor, closing the lid will still cause the MacBook to sleep.

    Preventing Sleep Without an External Monitor

    If you want your MacBook to stay awake while downloading files, playing music, or running updates, you can adjust the settings depending on your macOS version.

    macOS Monterey and Earlier

    1. Open System Preferences.
    2. Go to Battery (or Energy Saver).
    3. Select “Prevent your Mac from automatically sleeping when the display is off.”

    macOS Ventura and Later

    In newer versions of macOS, the settings have changed, but you can still keep your Mac awake:

    1. Open Terminal.
    2. Enter this command: 
      sudo pmset -a disablesleep 1

    Using Third-Party Apps

    For a simpler solution, apps like Amphetamine (free) or Caffeinated ($3.99) can keep your Mac awake. These apps override the default sleep settings and provide more control over sleep prevention.

    Now you can keep your MacBook active, whether connected to an external display or running tasks with the lid closed.

  • Apple might launch its first Foldable iPhone soon

    Apple might launch its first Foldable iPhone soon

    For years, rumors about a foldable iPhone have been circulating, and recent updates suggest Apple is finally closer to unveiling it. The tech giant is reportedly developing two foldable devices: a clamshell foldable iPhone and a larger 20-inch foldable iPad. However, the foldable iPhone seems to lead the race for an earlier launch.

    Design and Screen Details

    Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to feature a clamshell design, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr. The device will have a standard smartphone display size but can fold inward to become more compact for easier portability.

    Reports indicate that the screen might be larger than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, offering at least a 7-inch display when unfolded. Apple is also working on a bigger foldable device resembling a laptop with a 19-inch screen, but this seems to be at a much earlier stage of development.

    To ensure a seamless experience, Apple is tackling challenges like reducing screen creases, enhancing hinge durability, and using better materials for the display cover.

    The Foldable Market and Apple’s Impact

    The foldable smartphone market has seen impressive growth, with a 40% annual rise between 2019 and 2023. However, this trend is slowing, with growth expected to drop to just 5% in 2024 and a potential decline in 2025. Experts believe Apple’s entry into the market could reignite interest, bringing new features and innovation to the segment.

    Expected Release Date

    If everything goes as planned, Apple’s first foldable iPhone could arrive in late 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 series. Apple reportedly assigned a new codename to the project in mid-2024, signaling significant progress beyond the prototyping stage.

    While the exact release timeline remains uncertain, Apple’s foldable iPhone is shaping up to be a game-changer in the tech world.

    Source

  • Apple might rename the next iPhone SE to iPhone 16E

    Apple might rename the next iPhone SE to iPhone 16E

    Rumors have been swirling that Apple might ditch the ‘iPhone SE’ name for the next model coming this spring. Instead, it could be called the ‘iPhone 16E’. This change might sound odd, but it actually fits well with what we know about the upcoming phone.

    What’s New with the iPhone 16E?Here’s what we expect from this new model:

    • Design Inspired by iPhone 14: It will have a notch for Face ID and a 6.1-inch OLED screen.
    • Powerful A18 Chip: It will support Apple’s new AI features.
    • USB-C Charging: Replacing the old Lightning port.
    • Camera Upgrade: A single 48MP back camera, similar to those in the iPhone 15.
    • New 5G Modem: Apple’s first self-designed modem.

    This would be the most significant update to the SE series since 2020. The last SE, released in 2022, just got a new chip and 5G, but kept the same look.

    Pricing ConcernsThere’s talk of pricing the iPhone 16E at $499, which feels low considering its specs. Apple sells the iPhone 14 for $599 and the iPhone 15 for $699. How could they offer a newer phone with advanced features for less?

    • Cost-saving Components: Apple might use their own modem to cut costs, and cheaper display panels from BOE and LG instead of Samsung’s.

    But even with these savings, would Apple really price it so low?

    Why ‘iPhone 16E’ Makes SenseIf priced at $499, the iPhone 16E would undercut the iPhone 16 by $300, which includes extras like the Dynamic Island and an extra camera. Calling it the 16E could justify a $599 price, making it seem less like a budget option but more of a streamlined part of the current lineup.

    Moreover, it would highlight that the iPhone 15, which might still be sold, doesn’t have the latest features like Apple Intelligence.

    A New Name for a New EraThe ‘SE’ has always meant a smaller phone, but with a 6.1-inch screen, that’s no longer accurate. ‘iPhone 16E’ tells customers it’s part of the latest series, potentially boosting sales by clearly showing its place in the lineup.

    This naming could also help consumers understand the phone’s place in time, especially if Apple starts labeling models by year rather than generation. In summary, renaming the next iPhone SE to iPhone 16E could be Apple’s smart move to align the model with its current offerings while managing expectations around price and features.

  • iPhone 17 Dynamic Island stays the same size

    iPhone 17 Dynamic Island stays the same size

    Apple’s new iPhone 17 phones coming out this year will keep the Dynamic Island the same size, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

    Kuo shared on social media that he doesn’t think the Dynamic Island will change much on any of the iPhone 17 models. This goes against what people thought before, as there were whispers about making it smaller.

    Last year, another analyst, Jeff Pu, talked a lot about Apple using something called a “metalens” for the Face ID system in the iPhone 17 Pro, which would make the Dynamic Island thinner. But now, it seems that might not be happening.

    The Dynamic Island was first seen with the 2022 iPhones, and it hasn’t really changed since. People have been hoping Apple would make it smaller to give more space on the screen, but it looks like that’s not going to happen just yet.

    Even though the Dynamic Island isn’t changing, Apple has other plans for the iPhone 17’s design. They’re introducing a very thin model called the “iPhone 17 Air”, which will be the first big design update in a while. Both the iPhone 17 Air and the Pro versions are expected to have new camera setups arranged horizontally.

    For more details on what’s new with the iPhone 17 series, check out our summary on the iPhone 17.

  • Apple hires new leader to boost Siri and AI

    Apple hires new leader to boost Siri and AI

    Apple is shaking things up inside its company to make Siri and its AI better, according to Bloomberg. They’ve brought in Kim Vorrath, who has been with Apple for 37 years, to lead the AI team under John Giannandrea, who is in charge of AI at Apple.

    Vorrath has a knack for managing big software projects and keeping everything on track. She’s known as Apple’s “bug fixer” and has been a big influence in the company. Before this new role, she was part of the team working on Apple’s AR/VR headset, the Vision Pro.

    This change comes right after lots of talk about how Siri didn’t do well when asked about Super Bowl scores. For a while now, Siri hasn’t been as good as other voice helpers, especially when compared to new AI chatbots.

    Apple has also been dealing with complaints about how its Apple Intelligence summarizes news, sometimes getting things wrong and confusing people. To tackle this, they’re planning to stop these summaries for news and entertainment apps in the next update, iOS 18.3, which should come out soon.

    Despite trying to make Siri better by adding ChatGPT from OpenAI, there are still issues. But Apple is working on it, with plans for more Siri improvements in the iOS 18.4 update and even bigger changes in iOS 19, where they might make Siri like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini.

    Moving Vorrath to the AI team shows that Apple thinks AI is more crucial than their work on Vision Pro. She’s good at organizing tech teams and making their work better. In a note about the change, Giannandrea mentioned that they want to focus on making Siri work better and improving Apple’s own AI systems.

  • 76% of recent iPhones now have iOS 18

    76% of recent iPhones now have iOS 18

    The latest numbers show that iOS 18 is doing just as well as iOS 17 did last year. According to Apple, 76% of iPhones released in the past four years have iOS 18 installed, and 63% of iPads from the same period are now using iPadOS 18.

    Looking at all iPhones, 68% are running iOS 18, while 53% of iPads have iPadOS 18. However, there are still 19% of iPhones on iOS 17, and 13% on even older versions. On the iPad side, 28% are still on iPadOS 17, with 19% on older software.

    This is the first time Apple has shared these stats for iOS 18 since it came out last September. For comparison, by February 5 of the previous year, 76% of iPhones released in the last four years had iOS 17, with 66% of all iPhones updated. Meanwhile, 61% of recent iPads and 53% of all iPads were running iPadOS 17.

    The adoption rate for iOS 18 is similar to iOS 17, but Apple released these figures a bit sooner this year. With updates like iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3 coming next week, more people might choose to update their devices.

    Also, expect some big Siri updates in the iOS 18.4 update coming in April, which could boost the number of users even more. iOS 18 supports iPhones up to six years old, starting from the iPhone XS/XR. However, the fancy new Apple Intelligence features are only for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16, which might make some people with older phones think twice about upgrading.

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