Search results for: “apple ios”

  • A simple trick to make Apple’s Calendar app better on iPhone

    A simple trick to make Apple’s Calendar app better on iPhone

    Apple’s Calendar app has gotten a lot better with the new iOS update. This update, iOS 18, has made the app more interesting by adding new features, like working better with Apple Reminders and giving the app a fresh look. But there’s one cool trick with the Month view that you might not know about, which makes using the calendar on your iPhone even easier.

    The Month View Now Has a Secret Zoom Feature

    When iOS 18 came out, it brought a bunch of updates to the Calendar app. One of the changes was to the Month view. Before, this view just showed dates with little colored dots for days with events, but you couldn’t see what those events were.

    Now, with iOS 18, you can choose how you want to see your month:

    • Compact Mode: This is like the old view, just dots for events.
    • Stacked Mode: You see little colored bars for events from different calendars when you zoom in a bit.
    • Details Mode: Zoom in more, and you’ll see the names of your events.
    • Even More Details: Zoom further, and you’ll see both event names and times.
    • Full Day View: Zoom in, and each day has plenty of space for all your events.

    You change these views by simply pinching the screen to zoom in or out. This means you can adjust the Month view to show just the amount of detail you need right on your iPhone screen.

    Why This Matters

    Before, the Month view wasn’t very useful on iPhones because of the small screen. But now, with this new zoom feature, you can make it work for you whether you have a busy schedule with lots of appointments or a lighter one where you just need to see a few key events at a glance.

    Playing around with this feature lets you find just the right setup. For example, if you’re always on the go, you might prefer zooming in to see just a week or two with all the details. If your life is a bit less scheduled, you might zoom out to see more weeks but still catch the important stuff.

    The ability to zoom and customize the Month view in Apple’s Calendar app makes it one of the best tools for managing your time on an iPhone.

  • 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.

  • Wait longer for Apple’s new home device

    Wait longer for Apple’s new home device

    Apple is set to introduce some new gadgets this week, but the one that’s got everyone buzzing, the new ‘HomePad’, isn’t coming out as soon as we hoped, according to Mark Gurman.

    HomePad Release Pushed Back

    Back in November, Gurman gave us a sneak peek at what Apple had in store with its upcoming home product, which I’ve nicknamed the HomePad. He initially hinted at a March release.

    However, his reports have since changed. In January, he suggested that the HomePad might take a bit longer due to some software updates needed for its features. Despite this, there was still hope for a not-too-distant launch.

    But as of this weekend, Gurman’s latest newsletter paints a different picture. He confirms that Apple isn’t rushing this one. They’ve dropped the idea of a March launch, and it now looks like we’ll be waiting for “months” before we see the HomePad on shelves.

    What Does This Mean?

    Firstly, forget about March; it’s not happening. Secondly, while April might still be on the cards, Gurman seems to think we might wait even longer than that.

    Perfect Timing with iOS 18.4

    I’m really looking forward to the HomePad more than any other Apple product this year. The wait might be worth it, especially since iOS 18.4 is due in April, bringing with it some cool new AI features. The HomePad could work great with these updates, especially with a smarter Siri.

    So, although we might have to wait a bit longer, an April launch would be a good match. But, as always with Apple, we’ll just have to see what they have up their sleeves.

    Source

  • Exciting new Apple products coming soon

    Exciting new Apple products coming soon

    Apple is getting ready to surprise us with new gadgets next week. Here’s what you can look forward to:

    iPhone SE 4

    The next iPhone SE is finally getting an update after a few years. Here’s what’s new:

    • A beautiful screen that goes from edge to edge
    • Easy face unlock without a home button
    • Fast A18 chip inside
    • Charging with USB-C
    • More memory for smoother use
    • Works with Apple’s new smart features
    • A 48MP camera for great photos
    • Its own 5G connection for faster internet

    Even though it might cost a bit more than before, starting at about $499, this iPhone SE will be a great choice for many people.

    Powerbeats Pro 2

    Also coming soon are the new Powerbeats Pro 2. These have been spotted on some famous athletes and are expected to hit the market very soon. They’ll come in cool new colors like purple, orange, and light brown. Plus, they’ll have a heart-rate sensor, just like the upcoming AirPods Pro 3.

    Surprise Launches?

    There might be even more surprises:

    • M4 MacBook Air: With current models running low in stores, the new version might be just around the corner.
    • M3 iPad Air: Stocks are low, which could mean an update is coming sooner than expected.
    • 11th Generation iPad: An update to the basic iPad model could be on its way too.

    Big Week for Apple?

    With all these possible new gadgets, and whispers of the next iOS update, next week could be packed with announcements. Apple might even do a series of reveals like they did last fall with their new Macs. This approach was a big success, so fingers crossed they do it again.

    It’s shaping up to be an exciting time for Apple fans. Stay tuned for what could be a very interesting week!

  • Easy guide to using the new Apple Events App

    Easy guide to using the new Apple Events App

    Apple just launched a new app called “Party Planner” for iPhone users. It’s all about making event planning fun and easy, but some cool features are only for specific users. Here’s who can enjoy what in this new app.

    Installing Party Planner

    Who can do it? iPhone users with the latest iOS update
    To use Party Planner, you need to have iOS 18 on your iPhone. This means if you’re still using an older version like iOS 17, you won’t be able to join the fun. Also, there’s no version for Android users.

    Making Your Own Event Invites

    Who can do it? iCloud+ or Apple One subscribers
    If you want to create your own event invites, you must subscribe to iCloud+. This service gives you extra storage space and some privacy features. Even the basic $0.99/month plan lets you make and send invites. Remember, if you’re on an Apple One plan, you already have access to both iCloud+ and Party Planner.

    Accepting Event Invites

    Who can do it? Anyone with an email address
    The good news is, you don’t need an Apple account or even an iPhone to accept an invite. All you need is an email address. You can easily accept or decline invites sent your way.

    Music Collaboration

    Who can do it? Apple Music subscribers
    With Party Planner, you can set up a shared playlist for your event where guests can add their favorite songs. But, both the event creator and the guests need to be subscribed to Apple Music to play around with the playlist.

    Sharing Photos in an Event Album

    Who can do it? Apple Account users
    One of the best parts of Party Planner is the shared photo album for events. It’s a place where everyone can upload and share photos from the event. You just need a free Apple Account to contribute, and you don’t even need an iPhone – you can upload photos right from the web at iCloud.com/party-planner.

    This app is designed to make your events more interactive and memorable, but remember, some of its features do require you to be part of the Apple ecosystem or subscribe to their services.

    Source

  • New iOS Update Coming Soon: iOS 18.4 Beta 1

    New iOS Update Coming Soon: iOS 18.4 Beta 1

    We might see the first beta version of Apple’s next big update, iOS 18.4, as early as next week. This news comes from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg.

    What to Expect Next Week

    Next week will be action-packed with the release of Apple’s new Powerbeats with heart rate sensors and the iPhone SE 4. Despite this busy schedule, the iOS 18.4 beta could still appear on February 12 or 13. If Apple decides to wait, the update might come out on February 18, since February 17 is Presidents’ Day, a holiday in the U.S.

    Release Schedule

    Usually, Apple rolls out new betas after software updates, but there’s been a bit of a wait since iOS 18.3, which was released 11 days ago on January 27. We’ll reach the two-week mark on February 10, but Apple sometimes takes longer between updates, especially when they’re packed with new features.

    What’s New in iOS 18.4?

    Rumors are swirling that iOS 18.4 will introduce significant updates to Siri, focusing on what Apple calls “Apple Intelligence”. This includes making Siri more aware of what’s on your screen, understanding your personal context, and improving how it works within and across different apps. Given Siri’s past challenges with performance and accuracy, Apple is likely taking extra care with these enhancements.

    More Features

    Besides Siri improvements, the update might include new emojis, changes to default apps in the European Union, and the expansion of Apple Intelligence features to more languages and countries. Apple has already mentioned plans to broaden Apple Intelligence to additional countries in an April update, so we expect iOS 18.4 to be in beta testing until March, setting the stage for a full launch in April.

    This update promises to be a significant step forward for Apple’s mobile operating system, enhancing user interaction and expanding its global reach.

    Source

  • Apple removes apps loaded with image-scanning malware

    Apple removes apps loaded with image-scanning malware

    Yesterday, cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky revealed details about a new type of malware called “SparkCat” that was found in a handful of iOS apps. Following this revelation, Apple swiftly removed these apps from its App Store.

    Among the apps affected were ComeCome, WeTink, and AnyGPT. In total, 11 apps were taken down, but Apple’s investigation led to the discovery of an additional 89 apps with similar malicious code, which had already been rejected or removed due to Apple’s strict anti-fraud rules. When Apple removes an app for such reasons, it also shuts down the developer’s account.

    According to Kaspersky, the malware included a harmful tool that could read text from images and screenshots on iPhones, particularly targeting recovery phrases for cryptocurrency wallets. The aim was to steal valuable information like bitcoin codes, but it could also grab other sensitive phrases like passwords.

    Apple’s default settings prevent apps from accessing your photos without your permission. However, if users granted these apps access to their photo library, the malware could scan for and transmit any matching key phrases to a server controlled by the attackers. The malware seemed to focus on iOS users in Europe and Asia.

    Since the release of iOS 14, Apple has improved how apps can access your photos, allowing users to permit only specific images rather than the whole album. It’s wise to be cautious with app permissions and avoid granting access to all your photos to apps that seem suspicious.

    Apple also offers an “App Privacy Report” feature, which you can find in the Privacy section of your iPhone’s Settings. This report shows when and how often apps access your sensitive data like your location, photos, camera, and microphone.

    It’s always good to keep an eye on these privacy settings to protect your personal information.

    Source

  • New iPhone update coming soon: iOS 18.3.1

    New iPhone update coming soon: iOS 18.3.1

    Apple is quietly working on a new update for iPhones called iOS 18.3.1. We know this thanks to our website’s tracking, which has proven to be a good sign of what updates are coming next. You can expect this update to roll out in the coming weeks.

    About iOS 18.3.1

    This update isn’t going to be a big one. It’s mainly about fixing small problems and making sure your iPhone is safer by patching up security holes. One thing to note, the feature that gives you quick summaries of notifications for news and fun apps was turned off in the last update because it wasn’t working right. We don’t know yet if this will be fixed in iOS 18.3.1 or if we’ll have to wait for another update.

    Looking Ahead to iOS 18.4

    We’re also on the lookout for the first test version of iOS 18.4, which should come out this month. This update is set to bring some cool new stuff like better AI features for Siri, new emojis, and the option for people in the EU to choose their favorite map or translation apps by default. According to Apple’s site, we might see iOS 18.4 in April, after some testing.

    So, keep an eye out for these updates if you want your iPhone to run smoothly and securely!

  • Apple and Starlink: What you need to know

    Apple and Starlink: What you need to know

    You might have heard on social media that Apple automatically added Elon Musk’s Starlink to all iPhones. That’s not true. Here’s the simple truth: The iPhone can connect to Starlink, but only under certain conditions. Right now, in the United States, only one carrier, T-Mobile, uses Starlink for additional coverage on the iPhone.

    Apple hasn’t directly teamed up with Starlink. T-Mobile uses its own frequency (band 25) to make this possible, and the iPhone supports this band. There’s nothing unique in iOS 18.3 related to Starlink; it just supports T-Mobile’s latest network updates.

    If you’re a T-Mobile customer and you don’t want to use Starlink, you can turn it off easily. Go to your iPhone’s Settings, then Cellular, find your carrier and switch off Satellite. Apple has also shared some info on how iPhones work with satellite services provided by carriers. This document explains how these services differ from Apple’s satellite network.

    To use these carrier satellite services, you’ll need:

    • An iPhone 14, 15, or 16
    • The newest iOS update
    • A compatible carrier
    • Possibly, a specific plan from your carrier

    When your iPhone uses these services, you’ll see “SAT” in the status bar. Remember, there might be extra charges or data limits, so check with your carrier for details.

    Starlink can provide internet like other companies such as Spectrum or Xfinity, for homes, on the go, or even on boats and planes. But with T-Mobile, it’s currently limited to sending texts when you’re out of regular network range. This is in beta, and you need to sign up on T-Mobile’s site to use it.

    In the future, T-Mobile might expand this to include more mobile data services through Starlink. But remember, Starlink isn’t a phone company; that’s why they work with T-Mobile. Don’t skip updating to iOS 18.3 just because of Starlink rumors. Updating keeps your iPhone safe and running smoothly with the latest features and fixes.

  • Apple’s iPad App Letdown: Three misses in a row

    Apple’s iPad App Letdown: Three misses in a row

    Apple has been knocking it out of the park with new iPhone apps, but when it comes to supporting the iPad, they’ve been striking out.

    First in line was the Journal app, which only came out for iPhone users when iOS 17.2 was released. Even with the update to iOS and iPadOS 18, while the iPhone app got plenty of enhancements, iPad users were left out in the cold.

    Next up was Apple Sports, which made its debut on the iPhone a year ago. It’s improved a lot since then, but there’s still no iPad version. We’re all waiting to see if an iPad app or at least a widget will show up soon.

    Then there’s Apple’s new Invites app, which lets you send out invites to any device. However, if you’re using an iPad, you won’t find a dedicated app for it yet.

    On a brighter note, the iPhone versions of Sports and Invites do work on iPads, providing some relief for iPad users.

    The lack of a Journal app for iPad is particularly frustrating because, unlike other apps, it’s built into the system. This means iPad users can’t even use the iPhone version in a workaround like Stage Manager mode.

    Many thought Apple had moved past the days of iPhone-only apps, especially after finally bringing apps like Weather and Calculator to the iPad. But these new, exciting apps are still iPhone-exclusive.

    Apple’s pitching some great new apps, but when it comes to hitting home runs with iPad versions, they might need to call in a pinch hitter.