Search results for: “apple iphone”

  • Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple recently changed its App Store rules in the European Union to meet the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These updates, announced on June 26, 2025, allow app developers to tell users about other payment options outside the App Store, like buying directly from their websites.

    Starting with iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, users will see a new interface for installing apps from alternative app stores or developer websites. Later in 2025, Apple plans to offer a tool for developers to start these downloads directly within their apps.

    However, Apple warns that these changes might make iPhones and iPads less secure, raising risks of scams or harmful content. Despite these updates, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Apple, calling the changes “unlawful” and a “malicious compliance scheme.”

    He argues that Apple’s new fees, like a 5% commission on external purchases, hurt developers who use other payment methods. Sweeney says these rules make it tough for developers to compete fairly and limit features like automatic app updates.

    Apple disagrees with the European Commission’s push for these changes and plans to appeal, but it will follow the rules for now. The EU will review Apple’s efforts to ensure it meets DMA standards. Developers can use the new tools right away, but many are waiting to see if the fees will change.

    Source/Via

  • Apple Watch requirements for AI features in watchOS 26

    Apple Watch requirements for AI features in watchOS 26

    The new watchOS 26 update brings exciting AI-powered features to the Apple Watch, but not all devices can use them. These features, called Apple Intelligence, have specific hardware needs. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to use them.

    Live Translation: This feature lets your Apple Watch translate conversations in real time. It requires a newer model like the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2. You also need an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 model. Both devices must run watchOS 26 and iOS 26.

    Smart Replies: This helps you respond to messages quickly with suggested replies. It works on any Apple Watch that supports watchOS 26, like Series 6 or later, as long as it has the on-device language model. Your iPhone doesn’t need to be AI-compatible for this.

    Workout Buddy: This feature gives you personalized pep talks during workouts. It works on any Apple Watch running watchOS 26, but your paired iPhone must support Apple Intelligence. It uses workout data to motivate you, like tracking your heart rate or distance.

    Each feature has different needs because some run on the Watch itself, while others rely on the iPhone’s power. If you’re excited about these AI tools, check if your devices meet the requirements. Which watchOS 26 feature do you like most? Share your thoughts

  • Apple’s new C1 Modem: Where it’s headed next

    Apple’s new C1 Modem: Where it’s headed next

    Apple introduced its C1 modem with the iPhone 16e, bringing two big perks: better battery life and improved performance. This new tech is a step away from Qualcomm’s 5G modems, which Apple used before. The C1 saves power and works closely with iOS to make your phone feel faster by prioritizing important data.

    Apple made this modem to control more of its tech and cut costs, leading to a smoother experience for users. However, not all Apple devices are getting the C1 yet. Recent products like the M3 iPad Air, A16 iPad, and M4 MacBook Air don’t have it, sticking with Qualcomm’s modems.

    This fall, only one new device will feature the C1: the iPhone 17 Air. This super-thin iPhone, replacing the Plus model, will use the C1 to stay slim while keeping good battery life. Other models, like the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, will still use Qualcomm modems.

    Why is Apple rolling out the C1 slowly? It might be due to deals with Qualcomm, caution about possible connection issues, or just careful planning. For now, if you want the C1’s benefits, you’ll need an iPhone 16e or the upcoming iPhone 17 Air. Looking ahead, Apple’s full iPhone 18 lineup in 2026 is expected to use a new C2 modem.

  • What the iPhone 18 Pro screen might look like

    What the iPhone 18 Pro screen might look like

    Apple is working on big changes for the iPhone 18 Pro’s screen, expected to launch in September 2026. Two trusted sources have shared different ideas about how Apple might improve the display. One rumor suggests the iPhone 18 Pro will have Face ID hidden under the screen, leaving just a small hole for the front camera.

    This would make the screen look cleaner, with a tiny Dynamic Island or possibly none at all. Another source, however, thinks the Dynamic Island will stay but get smaller, keeping its familiar look while giving more screen space. Both ideas point to Apple’s goal of creating a nearly all-screen iPhone.

    The company has been moving toward this for years, starting with the iPhone X’s notch in 2017 and the Dynamic Island in 2022’s iPhone 14 Pro. A fully edge-to-edge display might not happen until 2027, but the iPhone 18 Pro could be a big step closer. These changes would make the phone look modern and give users more room for apps, videos, and games.

    The iPhone 18 Pro is also expected to keep its 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch screen sizes, so it won’t feel bigger in your hand. Fans are excited about a sleeker design, but some worry about losing the Dynamic Island’s unique style. Either way, Apple’s focus on a smoother, more open screen promises an exciting update for iPhone lovers.

  • Apple’s iCloud hiccup and Invites App update

    Apple’s iCloud hiccup and Invites App update

    Apple faced a hiccup with its iCloud services, causing trouble for some users. According to Apple’s System Status page, services like iCloud Mail, Photos, iWork, and account sign-ins were affected, starting around 2:36 p.m. Eastern Time. Users reported issues like being unable to access files or photos or facing slow syncing.

    The Find My service was briefly down but fixed by 6:41 p.m. Eastern Time. However, other services continued to have problems, leaving some users frustrated as they couldn’t access their data smoothly. Apple is working to resolve these issues, but no clear reason for the outage has been shared yet.

    In brighter news, Apple updated its Invites app to version 1.3, adding a bunch of new background options for event planning. The app, launched earlier in 2025, helps users organize events like pool parties or game nights with custom invitations.

    The new backgrounds make invites more fun and fitting for different occasions, from casual hangouts to big celebrations. While the app supports creating AI-generated backgrounds with Image Playground, these new built-in options are especially helpful for users with older iPhones that don’t support Apple Intelligence.

    You need an iCloud+ subscription, starting at $0.99 per month, to create events, but anyone can RSVP, even without an iPhone, using a web browser. The update makes event planning more colorful and user-friendly.

  • Apple’s Latest Updates: macOS Tahoe, iOS 26, and China subsidy program

    Apple’s Latest Updates: macOS Tahoe, iOS 26, and China subsidy program

    Apple recently rolled out exciting updates for its users. The second beta of macOS Tahoe, released on June 24, 2025, now lets developers test AirPods firmware updates directly on a Mac. To try it, connect your AirPods, go to System Settings, click Bluetooth, select your AirPods, and toggle on beta updates.

    This feature, already available on iPhone and iPad with iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, will open to public beta testers in July, making it easier to explore new AirPods features like better call audio and studio-quality recording. Meanwhile, iOS 26’s beta introduces a fresh Clock app design with a bigger time display and larger Stop and Snooze buttons.

    However, this redesign might make it easier to accidentally tap Stop instead of Snooze when you’re groggy, going against earlier Apple research that favored different-sized buttons to avoid mistakes. Users can now customize snooze times from 1 to 15 minutes, a handy tweak from the fixed nine-minute snooze.

    In other news, Apple has joined China’s subsidy program to boost iPhone sales. By offering discounts through platforms like JD.com and Tmall, Apple aims to compete better in the world’s largest smartphone market, where local brands like Huawei are strong. This move follows a 40% sales drop in early 2025, showing Apple’s push to stay competitive with price cuts and trade-in offers.
    These updates show Apple’s focus on improving user experience and staying competitive globally.

  • Apple’s chip switch and digital id in Japan

    Apple’s chip switch and digital id in Japan

    Five years ago, Apple shared big news at its 2020 WWDC event: it would start using its chips, called Apple silicon, in Macs, moving away from Intel processors. This change began with the M1 chip, which brought better speed and battery life to devices like the MacBook Air and Mac mini.

    Since then, Apple has rolled out newer chips, like the M4 and M5, making its computers faster and more efficient. The switch has been a game-changer, letting Apple control both the hardware and software for smoother performance.

    By June 2025, all new Macs will use Apple silicon, and older Intel-based Macs will stop getting full macOS updates after macOS Tahoe, though security updates will continue for a few years. In another update, Apple announced that Japan’s My Number Card can now be added to the Wallet app on iPhones running iOS 18.5 or later, starting with the iPhone XS.

    This digital ID lets users verify their identity or age at places like airports or stores without a physical card. It’s a step toward making life easier with contactless options, similar to how some U.S. states let residents add driver’s licenses to the Wallet app. This feature is rolling out slowly but shows Apple’s push to make the iPhone a one-stop tool for everyday needs. Both changes highlight Apple’s focus on improving its devices and making them more useful in daily life, whether through powerful chips or handy digital IDs.

  • Apple releases second macOS Tahoe test version

    Apple releases second macOS Tahoe test version

    Apple has rolled out the second test version of macOS Tahoe 26 to developers for trying out new features. This update arrives two weeks after the first test and focuses on smoothing out issues before the public gets to try it next month. You’ll need a sleek new look, Apple!

    This macOS brings a fresh style called Liquid Glass, which makes everything look shiny and see-through, a bit like the iPhone’s design. It changes how you use apps like Mail, Calendar, and Photos, making them feel new and lively. There’s also a new Phone app for Mac, so you can handle calls and texts right from your computer. Plus, Spotlight search is now quicker and can dig through your emails to find what you need fast.

    For those eager to test it, macOS Tahoe is still just for developers, but anyone can sign up with an Apple Developer account to give it a go. Be careful, though—Apple warns not to put this early software on your main Mac since it might have bugs. A public test version is coming in July, with the final release expected this fall. Curious about all the new tricks in macOS Tahoe? Check out Apple’s detailed guide for the full scoop.

  • Apple releases second test version of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26

    Apple releases second test version of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26

    Apple has rolled out the second developer beta for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, two weeks after the first test version debuted at WWDC 2025. This update focuses on refining the new Liquid Glass design, a sleek, translucent look that transforms the iPhone and iPad interface with shimmering icons and dynamic visuals. It also boosts Apple Intelligence, enhancing apps like Messages, Phone, and Safari with smarter features.

    The second beta fixes a key issue with the Control Center, addressing user complaints about its design. Other tweaks include better battery management through Adaptive Power Mode, which slightly dims the screen or slows tasks to save power. New Wi-Fi tools, like Captive Assist, are in the works but not yet active. Developers can grab the update via the Settings app on supported devices, like the iPhone 15 and 16.

    iOS 26 brings fresh touches, such as a hidden ringtone variation of Reflection and new call features like Hold Assist. iPadOS 26 adds a Phone app, improved multitasking, and a Games app. These betas are for developers now, but a public beta will launch in July, with the full release set for September alongside new iPhones. Apple is streamlining its software numbering, so “26” marks the 2025-2026 season, matching macOS 26, watchOS 26, and more. Stay tuned for hands-on reviews as testing continues.

  • Apple releases second watchOS 26 beta for developers

    Apple releases second watchOS 26 beta for developers

    Apple has rolled out the second developer beta of watchOS 26, along with tvOS 26 and visionOS 26 betas, two weeks after the first betas were shared. These updates, announced at WWDC 2025, bring a fresh look and smarter features to Apple’s devices.

    The watchOS 26 beta introduces a sleek new design called Liquid Glass, giving the Apple Watch a modern, transparent style. It also adds new watch faces and lets third-party apps work with the Control Center for quicker access. Developers can test these changes to make sure their apps run smoothly.

    To try the beta, developers need an Apple Watch Series 6 or newer, paired with an iPhone 11 or later running iOS 26. The update can be downloaded through the Apple Watch app under Settings > General > Software Update, with a developer account linked. The watch must have at least 50% battery and be on a charger during installation.

    While these betas are for developers to test and tweak apps, Apple plans to release public betas in July. The full versions of watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 will launch for everyone in September 2025. Stay tuned for more updates as Apple refines these exciting new features.