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  • Tap to pay on iPhone expands to more countries and Apple says App Store rules save users money

    Tap to pay on iPhone expands to more countries and Apple says App Store rules save users money

    Apple is helping individuals all over the world use their iPhones to complete payments. The Tap to Pay feature is being introduced in 18 additional countries, the company revealed. This means businesses have the ability to accept transactions using just their iPhones.

    It is already offered in the US, UK and Australia and shortly, residents of Europe, Asia and similar regions will be able to try it too. By using just their iPhones, even small food and retail businesses can make sure all their payments are safe and easy.

    As one more point, Apple updated the community on its App Store. According to the company, its policies have played a big role in saving users billions. Every app is vetted by Apple before it is placed on the App Store to confirm that it is safe and not designed to get people to spend unwisely.

    Following these rules has stopped a lot of scams, keeping users from losing their hard-earned money, according to Apple. Over the last four years, the company has detected and blocked more than $7 billion worth of suspicious transactions, it says. Because more countries around the world now have Tap to Pay and the App Store protects users, Apple says it is dedicated to making its devices easy and secure for everyone to use.

    Source/Via

  • Apple highlights iPhone safety features and CEO opposes Texas age check law

    Apple highlights iPhone safety features and CEO opposes Texas age check law

    Apple recently launched a campaign on its website, highlighting iPhone privacy and safety features and also joined in on a debate about online privacy laws in Texas.

    A new Apple ad called “Ease” highlights how iPhone offers App Tracking Transparency, Mail Privacy Protection, and does processing for Siri and Photos right on the device. They make sure users’ data stays safe and private without making the phone perform more slowly. Apple made a special page on its site to explain the steps it takes to protect user privacy using hardware and software.

    Apple’s CEO Tim Cook is now involved in a Texas bill that demands websites verify people’s age with facial recognition or ID checks before providing adult content. Reports say that Cook reached out to Texas Governor Greg Abbott to stand against the bill. He fears that making people disclose their data could seriously threaten online privacy.

    The company believes you should not have to give away personal information to verify your age. According to the company, its products are built around protecting personal data, but the new law might threaten their ability to do this.

    Apple’s case proves Apple does more than sell phones, as it also works to defend digital privacy rights in its products and in public debates.

  • Apple CarPlay Ultra fixes a major wireless issue in cars

    Apple CarPlay Ultra fixes a major wireless issue in cars

    Apple has released CarPlay Ultra, a big improvement that resolves a common issue that many vehicles currently have. Thanks to this new version, you can now use CarPlay wirelessly in cars that only have a USB video connection.

    In most cases, wireless CarPlay needs to be used in cars that are built with the special hardware needed for wireless video streaming. Many vehicles that depend solely on USB for video aren’t compatible with wireless CarPlay. With CarPlay Ultra, Apple is making it easier.

    With this feature, video compression and streaming are performed quickly and over USB so you don’t miss a thing. It also gives cars without this feature the ability to use wireless CarPlay. People who would like to avoid having to carry or plug in cables find it especially helpful.

    Studies show that CarPlay Ultra gives the same, smooth experience as standard wire-free CarPlay for the vast majority of users. The changes are forecasted to help older cars and those at the low end of the market.

    During the WWDC 2024 event, Apple exhibited CarPlay Ultra and confirmed that the first vehicles equipped with it will appear in late 2025. With this update, many more drivers could start to use wireless CarPlay.

    All in all, CarPlay Ultra makes CarPlay accessible without cables in many more cars, even those that have limited tech already, making life easier.

  • Apple rolls out new firmware update for Airpods Max

    Apple rolls out new firmware update for Airpods Max

    Apple has posted a firmware update for AirPods Max that brings the version to 7E108. Just a few weeks after the March release of 6A325, this update is now available. Apple hasn’t revealed what has changed or what’s new in this update. Still, when a watch receives a firmware update, it’s usually to fix bugs, make sure things run smoothly or enhance the power and connection of the device.

    The AirPods Max will receive automatic firmware updates if they are connected to an iPhone or iPad using Bluetooth. The update can’t be installed manually, so just place your AirPods Max next to your device and make sure they still have power. You can look up your firmware version using the steps below.

    • Set up your AirPods Max on your iPhone or iPad.
    • Go to Settings on your device.
    • Visit Bluetooth.
    • Tap the little information (ⓘ) button that appears next to your AirPods Max.
    • Find the firmware version on the page.

    Updating your AirPods Max is a good idea, even if Apple doesn’t typically release a changelog. Better sound, easier online matches and improvements for problems encountered before are all included. This story will be updated if Apple gives us additional information on version 7E108.

  • Apple may delay next-gen Siri reveal at WWDC, but big changes are coming

    Apple may delay next-gen Siri reveal at WWDC, but big changes are coming

    Siri is about to become smarter, but the focus of this year’s WWDC might not be on this update alone. Although some big Siri upgrades are on their way, Apple is likely to unveil them later in the year or even next year.

    It is claimed that the improved Siri is synchronized with ChatGPT, helping it handle and respond to difficult questions. Apps and services from Apple should now work together much more efficiently, allowing iOS to be more useful daily. Apple employees are already trying out the updated Siri within iOS 18.

    The entire OS likely won’t be able to release at WWDC 2025. According to information, Apple will present some of its AI updates, but users may get all the features gradually. The method helps Apple smooth out any initial glitches before releasing the product.

    Even if Siri isn’t highlighted this year at WWDC, AI will be a major part of what’s discussed. Apple is planning to strengthen notifications, add better writing tools and provide better photo editing using local processing. At this point, Siri is still improving, and a powerful AI update is coming in phases. Apple is being meticulous to ensure no issues arise when everyone has access to the software.

    Source/Via

  • New AirPods and Beats coming soon and AirPods Max 2 may launch in late 2025

    New AirPods and Beats coming soon and AirPods Max 2 may launch in late 2025

    New audio products from Apple are planned for the current year and then 2026 as well. Sources say that the next generation AirPods Max will likely be available by the end of 2025. Most likely, the emblem will have the same design as the last one, while embracing lighter colors, having a USB-C port and offering better performance.

    At the same time, Apple is designing new versions of its regular AirPods as well. According to rumors, a new model of AirPods is set to launch this September. There are going to be two versions of these earbuds: active noise cancellation and non-active noise cancellation. Both iPhones will possibly include a new case and speakers for the Find My feature, along with a USB-C charging port.

    We are not likely to see a new AirPods Pro until 2026. Apple intends to make the design sleeker and add new amenities for that model, especially for its health features.

    Apple-owned Beats is also working on the next Powerbeats Pro model. Just recently, the prototype was seen showing a transparent design. The improved version of Powerbeats Pro will supposedly be released soon, offering better battery and presenting new additions, while keeping the cable that wraps around the back of your ear for a good workout fit.

    Apple is set to give its current audio range a major upgrade during the next year and a half. If you like AirPods or Beats, many delights are coming your way.

    Source/Via/Via

  • Apple adds expert reviews to Maps, Music transfer tool, and smarter Calendars

    Apple adds expert reviews to Maps, Music transfer tool, and smarter Calendars

    Apple just rolled out a few new updates across its apps that aim to make your experience better and more helpful.

    First, Apple Maps is getting more reliable. It now includes expert-sourced information in its place cards—those little cards you see when you tap on a location. Instead of just showing reviews from users, Apple has teamed up with travel pros like Lonely Planet, The Infatuation, and others. These expert tips help you discover good places to eat, fun spots to visit, and hidden gems in cities like New York, London, and Paris. More cities will be added soon.

    Next up, Apple Music is making it easier to switch from other music apps. A new feature lets users import their playlists and libraries from services like Spotify, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music straight into Apple Music. This means you won’t lose your favorite songs if you switch. Apple is using a tool made by SongShift to make this happen, and it’s built into the Apple Music app.

    Lastly, Apple’s Calendar app is quietly getting smarter. It now shows a daily task list—things you’ve added to your Reminders app—right in your calendar. This makes it easier to stay on top of your day. The feature is great, but one small thing could make it even better: letting users choose which reminders appear. Right now, it shows all of them, even the ones that aren’t tied to a specific time.

    These updates show how Apple is making its apps more useful and connected.

  • Apple adds Formula 1 race previews to Maps for a fun, interactive experience

    Apple adds Formula 1 race previews to Maps for a fun, interactive experience

    Apple Maps is adding a new Formula 1 feature for fans to explore race tracks in a fun and interactive way. Starting with the Miami Grand Prix, users can experience a 3D version of the track using the “Explore” feature on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

    With this feature, users can get a closer look at the track layout, see key points like turns and pit lanes, and view nearby spots for parking, food, and hotels. It’s similar to Apple’s Look Around view, but designed specifically for Formula 1 events.

    This new update is part of Apple’s growing partnership with Formula 1. Apple TV+ is also working on a new F1 movie starring Brad Pitt, which is expected to come out soon. In addition, Apple Music created a special playlist for the Miami Grand Prix and shared the playlist from F1 driver Charles Leclerc.

    Apple hasn’t said if this 3D Maps feature will be available for all races, but we’ll likely see it added for other major events later this year. This could make following the sport more exciting for fans and easier for visitors attending in person.

    The F1 Maps feature is now live for the Miami race and will work on devices with the latest Apple software. Users just need to search for the Miami Grand Prix in Apple Maps and tap “Explore” to check it out.

  • Apple updates Safari for smoother web alerts, fixes Messages bug, and offers new Nike deal for Card users

    Apple updates Safari for smoother web alerts, fixes Messages bug, and offers new Nike deal for Card users

    Apple has rolled out a few useful updates recently. First, macOS 15.5 is bringing better web push notifications to Safari. Now, websites can send you alerts even if Safari is closed. This works for apps added to the dock as well. It’s especially helpful for developers building websites that act like apps, letting users stay updated in real time. This update makes Safari work more like browsers on Windows and Android, where push notifications have already been common.

    In another fix, Apple has addressed a strange bug in the Messages app. Some users had trouble sending messages that included an ampersand (&) in the contact name. Messages would fail and never reach the other person. This problem started with iOS 17.4, but the issue is now being resolved in iOS 17.5. If you’ve been dealing with this, updating your device should fix it.

    Lastly, Apple Card users can now get a special offer. If you spend $50 or more at Nike using Apple Card through Apple Pay, you’ll receive $10 back in Daily Cash. This offer is available until May 22 and can be used in Nike stores, on Nike.com, or through the Nike app. It’s a good time for Apple Card users to take advantage of this limited-time reward.

    These updates show Apple’s push to fix annoying bugs, improve Safari, and reward users with simple perks.

  • Apple fixes major iOS 18.5 bug and teases new AI battery upgrade for iOS 19

    Apple fixes major iOS 18.5 bug and teases new AI battery upgrade for iOS 19

    Apple just released iOS 18.5 Release Candidate 1 to developers and beta testers, and it comes with an important security fix. A major bug was found in previous beta versions of iOS 18.5, which made the device forget saved Wi-Fi passwords when switching between networks. This issue affected users who were constantly changing networks, like from home to office. Apple says this bug is now fixed, so Wi-Fi passwords should stay saved when switching connections.

    This update also hints at what’s coming next with iOS 19. Apple is working on smarter battery management using AI. A new feature called “Adaptive Power Mode” has been spotted in iOS 19 beta code. This mode is designed to turn on automatically when your iPhone’s battery gets low or when the phone predicts it needs to save power. Unlike the current Low Power Mode, which you have to switch on yourself, Adaptive Power Mode will run in the background without user action.

    The goal is to balance performance and battery life more intelligently. It will reduce power use but still keep your phone running smoothly. Right now, this feature is only found in the iOS 19 developer beta, so it’s not available to the public yet.

    In short, iOS 18.5 solves a Wi-Fi issue, and iOS 19 is gearing up to improve battery life using AI. More details are expected to be revealed at Apple’s WWDC event in June.