Search results for: “Updates”

  • Apple no longer allows downgrade to iOS 18.3

    Apple no longer allows downgrade to iOS 18.3

    Apple has ended the ability to install iOS 18.3 on iPhones, meaning those who updated to iOS 18.3.1 can’t go back to the previous version. The company rolled out iOS 18.3.1 about a week after the release of iOS 18.3.

    iOS Updates

    Apple tends to stop signing older iOS versions shortly after newer ones come out, typically within one to two weeks. Once an older version stops being signed, you can’t put it on your iPhone anymore because of a check that happens on Apple’s servers. This practice pushes people to keep their phones updated. By not letting users revert to older software, Apple makes sure everyone has the latest security fixes.

    Why Update Matters

    The update to iOS 18.3.1 brought several bug corrections and security patches. Notably, it fixed a security hole that hackers were already using, which shows why keeping your iPhone’s software current is crucial.

  • Apple’s big iMac plans might skip what consumers really want

    Apple’s big iMac plans might skip what consumers really want

    Apple made headlines back in 2023 when they officially announced that they wouldn’t be updating the 27-inch iMac to Apple Silicon. However, they hinted at the possibility of a larger iMac, potentially with a 32-inch screen. But recent updates from tech analyst Mark Gurman have cast some doubt on these plans.

    Apple is known for keeping its cards close to its chest, following a philosophy set by Steve Jobs who believed in the power of surprise in product launches. The company rarely comments on rumors or future product plans, sticking to a standard response of not discussing unannounced products.

    However, in an unusual move, Apple confirmed in November 2023 that they had no plans for an Apple Silicon version of the 27-inch iMac. This statement left room for speculation about a larger iMac model. Given that screens much larger than 27 inches are now standard, the idea of a bigger iMac seemed logical.

    In today’s tech world, 27-inch monitors are often used in setups with multiple screens, suggesting a demand for even larger, standalone displays. Yet, some argue that buying a Mac mini with a separate, large monitor would serve the same purpose as a large iMac, offering flexibility in screen size and setup.

    Despite this, many fans of the iMac’s all-in-one design expressed disappointment with the idea of having to hide a computer behind a monitor. They cherish the simplicity and elegance of having everything integrated into one device.

    Gurman’s latest comments, however, are not particularly encouraging for those hoping for a consumer-grade larger iMac. His statement suggests that Apple might only consider a larger screen for professional models like an iMac Pro, leaving regular consumers out in the cold.

    Terms like “probably” and “eventually” do little to excite those eager to upgrade from their older 27-inch models without settling for a smaller 24-inch version. For current owners of the Intel-based 27-inch iMac, this news might be disheartening, as they wait for an Apple Silicon upgrade that matches their expectations in size and functionality.

  • New chip for MacBook Pro before iPad Pro

    New chip for MacBook Pro before iPad Pro

    Apple plans to put its latest M5 chip into the MacBook Pro in the fall, with the iPad Pro following in early 2026, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This is a change from what was expected before, based on how they rolled out the M4 chips last year.

    Before we see the M5 MacBook Pro, Apple will update the Mac Studio and Mac Pro with the current M4 chips. These updates might come out around the big developer conference in June 2025.

    The M5 chip will have a new kind of ARM design and will be made using a very tiny 3-nanometer technology from TSMC. Instead of going for an even smaller 2-nanometer tech, which would be pricier, Apple chose this for cost reasons. But the top models of the M5 will still be a big step up from the M4, thanks to a special 3D stacking method that makes the chips cooler and more efficient.

    This 3D stacking or SoIC technology stacks the chips one on top of the other, which helps with heat and power use. Apple has been working closely with TSMC on this new tech, which also uses some cool new materials for the chip’s package.

    There’s already talk in Apple’s code about the M5 chip. One report says that Apple will use this chip not just in new devices but also in their servers to make AI features better, both on your device and online.

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  • Big update coming for Apple Vision Pro – No New Gadgets Needed

    Big update coming for Apple Vision Pro – No New Gadgets Needed

    The Apple Vision Pro, which just celebrated its first birthday, might soon receive one of its largest updates yet, and you won’t need to buy new hardware to enjoy it. The buzz is all about Apple Intelligence, which was initially rolled out for iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Until now, this suite of AI features was exclusive to models like the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, various iPad models with M-series chips, and the latest Macs.

    However, there was no mention of Apple Vision Pro getting these AI enhancements in previous updates. The Vision Pro, powered by Apple’s second-generation M-series chip, has been somewhat left out until now. But that could change.

    Recent whispers from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg hint that Apple might extend Apple Intelligence to the current Vision Pro models. This is exciting news for those who’ve invested in the $3,500 headset, offering new capabilities without the need for an upgrade.

    This rumor comes as a relief, especially after reports suggested that some new Siri features with Apple Intelligence might miss the iOS 18.4 release. Keep an eye out for more updates from Apple in the coming days, including a new product launch scheduled for this Wednesday.

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    Stay tuned for how these developments could enhance your Apple experience!

  • Siri’s big update might be late

    Siri’s big update might be late

    Apple is facing some challenges with the new and improved version of Siri, which includes smart features from Apple Intelligence. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, these updates might not come out on time because of technical issues and software glitches.

    Apple Intelligence Overview

    There was talk that these new Siri features would be part of the iOS 18.4 update. However, with the first beta of iOS 18.4 expected next week, it looks like Siri isn’t quite ready yet.

    Apple has already announced that Apple Intelligence would support more languages in April, hinting that’s when iOS 18.4 might roll out. This leaves Apple with little time to fix Siri’s problems. Some of these new features might get delayed until May, possibly appearing in an iOS 18.5 update.

    The new Siri is supposed to bring three key enhancements: understanding the personal context for better interaction, performing more actions within and across apps, and recognizing what’s on the screen to respond accordingly. However, testers have noted that these features aren’t working smoothly yet.

    Big updates like this usually don’t arrive as late as May since Apple starts focusing on the next iOS version around WWDC in June.

    Gurman suggests that Apple might release these features in iOS 18.4 but keep them off by default for further testing, until they’re fully ready in iOS 18.5. We should see the first iOS 18.4 beta soon, but don’t expect to see the new Siri features right away.

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  • New iPhone 17 Pro camera design leaked

    New iPhone 17 Pro camera design leaked

    A new leak shows that the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro might feature an innovative camera setup. According to the popular YouTube channel “Tech Updates,” the phone will have three back cameras, but this time, they’ll be inside a new, rectangular camera bar with rounded edges.

    In the latest video from “Tech Updates,” host Mike Johnson explains that this camera bar will be much bigger than what we’ve seen in earlier leaks. The cameras will sit on the left side of the bar, and on the right, you’ll find the LED flash, a microphone, and the LiDAR Scanner, all stacked up.

    Johnson also mentioned that the iPhone 17 Pro will have a unique two-tone look, where the camera bar seems darker than the phone’s back panel.

    While it’s not clear if this new design offers any advantages or if it’s just for looks, it certainly changes the phone’s appearance. Johnson claims his information comes from several people who know about the iPhone 17 Pro’s design, and he’s seen the phone himself.

    He suggests that this new camera setup might also appear on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, though he didn’t confirm it. There’s also talk of an “iPhone 17 Lite” model with a similar bar but only one camera. It’s uncertain if this design will make it to the basic iPhone 17, but it would make sense for Apple to keep things uniform across the lineup.

    Other brands like Google have camera bars on their phones too, like the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, but their cameras are lined up horizontally.

    Mike Johnson has been sharing tech news for years and has had both successes and failures with his predictions. He famously revealed details about the AirTag and iPad mini 6 well before they were launched. However, not all his predictions have been spot-on, like the flat-edged Apple Watch Series 7 rumor.

    Recently, Johnson hinted that iOS 19 might bring a new look to the Camera app, inspired by visionOS, with clear and semi-transparent menus. Apple is expected to reveal the iPhone 17 series in September, and we’re likely to hear more about the design before that.

  • What’s coming up at Apple’s big reveal next week?

    What’s coming up at Apple’s big reveal next week?

    Apple hasn’t released any new gadgets this year, but that might change soon. Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has hinted at something big coming on Wednesday, February 19.

    “Get ready to meet the newest member of the family,” Cook announced on social media, accompanied by a video showing an animated Apple logo in a circle. No further details were shared, leaving us to speculate on what might be unveiled.

    Here’s what could be on the table:

    New Budget iPhone or iPhone 16E

    Rumors are swirling that we might see a new, affordable iPhone SE. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has been quite vocal about it, suggesting that a new iPhone SE with a bigger screen, a USB-C port, and enhanced features might be just around the corner. There’s also talk of this model possibly being called the iPhone 16E, hinting at its integration into the broader iPhone 16 lineup.

    Updated MacBook Air and iPads

    Gurman also mentioned new versions of the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and the basic iPad might be coming, although not necessarily next week. These updates could include new chips like the M4 for the MacBook Air, M3 for the iPad Air, and possibly the A16 or A17 Pro for the iPad, with no major redesigns expected.

    Home Control Center

    While Apple’s smart home hub isn’t slated for mass production until later this year, there’s a chance we could get a sneak peek next week. This device, likened to a HomePod with a screen, might feature a 6 or 7-inch display, an A18 chip, and smart home management capabilities.

    AirTag 2?

    The circular logo in Cook’s teaser has sparked AirTag 2 rumors due to the current AirTag’s round design. However, Gurman remains skeptical about an announcement this soon, suggesting that while a new AirTag is expected this year, it’s unlikely to be the star of next week’s show. Expected upgrades include better anti-stalking features and enhanced tracking with a new Ultra Wideband chip.

    Apple enthusiasts should mark their calendars for next Wednesday to see if these speculations hold true. Stay tuned for what could be an exciting addition to Apple’s product family.

  • What’s next for Apple’s AirPods after the Powerbeats Pro 2?

    What’s next for Apple’s AirPods after the Powerbeats Pro 2?

    Apple and Beats recently introduced the eagerly awaited Powerbeats Pro 2 wireless earbuds. This new model brings features not yet seen in Apple’s AirPods. But what does this mean for the future of AirPods?

    Rumors About Upcoming AirPods

    One standout feature of the Powerbeats Pro 2 is its heart rate sensor. This marks the first time Apple has included such a health-focused tool in a product other than the Apple Watch. It suggests that future devices might also focus more on health monitoring. Although Powerbeats are designed for workouts, it’s notable that Apple chose to debut this technology in a Beats product.

    What About AirPods?

    Will AirPods follow suit with a heart rate sensor? It seems likely, as various sources confirm Apple is indeed developing AirPods with health sensors. The next big update, expected in the AirPods Pro 3, will likely include this sensor. Although we don’t have a specific release date, considering the AirPods Pro 2 came out in 2022, we might see the next version soon, perhaps even this year.

    Mark Gurman from Bloomberg mentioned last year that Apple is looking into sensors that could measure body temperature through the ear canal. There’s also talk about integrating camera sensors into AirPods, but these innovations won’t make it into the AirPods Pro 3.

    AirPods Pro 3 Expectations

    For the AirPods Pro 3, expect a new design, though details are scarce. The basic AirPods model got a recent update with a fresh look and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), so don’t expect another update soon. As for the AirPods Max, after last year’s update to include USB-C, there are no significant updates planned shortly.

    This glimpse into Apple’s strategy shows a clear direction toward enhancing personal health monitoring through their audio products, promising exciting developments for AirPods users.

  • New Beats earbuds to get immediate software update

    New Beats earbuds to get immediate software update

    Apple’s latest earbuds, the Beats Pro 2, will come with an immediate software update immediately. The earbuds will start with the 7B15 firmware, but a new update, version 7B24, is already available.

    While specifics on the update aren’t detailed yet, the Beats Pro 2 introduces new features like heart rate tracking, which is a first for Apple’s earbuds. They use small LED lights to check your heart rate by sensing the blood flow in your ears.

    In addition to heart rate tracking, these earbuds offer noise cancellation, personalized sound positioning, and enhanced audio thanks to a new sound system and Apple’s H2 chip for better connection.

    Design-wise, the Beats Pro 2 has a much smaller ear hook, now 50% less than the original, comes with more choices for ear tips, are 20% lighter, and have a sleeker charging case that lasts longer.

    To update the firmware, just connect the earbuds to a power source while they’re near an iPhone, iPad, or Mac with Wi-Fi. On an iPhone, you can check for updates by going into Settings, then Bluetooth, and clicking on the Beats icon. Android users will need the Beats app to get these updates.

    You can pre-order the Beats Pro 2 from Apple’s site starting today, with an official release date set for this Thursday, February 13. They’re priced at $250.

  • New iPads and MacBooks coming soon

    New iPads and MacBooks coming soon

    Apple’s suppliers are getting ready for the release of new versions of the iPad Air, MacBook Air, and a basic iPad model.

    According to a report from DigiTimes, the supply chain started sending out these new devices in December. While we don’t know the exact date they’ll be available, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has said these new gadgets will hit the market by March or April 2025, possibly even sooner. Gurman also mentioned that a new iPhone SE might be announced this week.

    A report from a Taiwanese publication, which requires a subscription to read, hinted that these new devices will switch to chips made by Apple. Since Apple already designs its own chips for Macs and iPads, this might mean they’re talking about a new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip. However, Gurman had previously mentioned that this change might not happen until 2026.

    Gurman also noted that Apple’s new Wi-Fi chip will support Wi-Fi 6E. It’s not clear yet if this will make much difference for users compared to the current Wi-Fi chips from Broadcom. The main advantage could be in how much battery it uses.

    The new MacBook Airs, coming in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, are expected to use the M4 chip. The iPad Air might get the M3 chip, and the basic iPad 11 could either have the A16 chip or the A17 Pro chip. Apart from these chip updates, there aren’t expected to be many other big changes to these devices.

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