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  • Apple faces court ruling on App Store changes

    Apple faces court ruling on App Store changes

    In a major win for Epic Games, a U.S. judge ruled on April 30, 2025, that Apple broke a 2021 court order meant to make its App Store fairer. The order told Apple to let app developers guide users to payment options outside the App Store, avoiding Apple’s fees. Instead, Apple added new rules, like a 27% fee on outside purchases and warning screens that scared users away from external payments. The judge called this a deliberate move to keep billions in profits and said Apple’s actions were “anticompetitive.”

    The court now bans Apple from charging fees on external purchases or blocking developers from linking to other payment options. Apple can’t control how developers design these links or track user activity outside apps. The judge also referred Apple’s case to federal prosecutors for possible criminal charges, pointing to false statements made by Apple’s finance vice-president, Alex Roman. Apple plans to follow the new rules but will appeal the decision.

    This ruling could bring Fortnite back to iPhones and iPads worldwide, as Epic Games is ready to return if Apple follows the court’s orders. Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, celebrated the decision, saying it ends Apple’s high fees, similar to changes in Europe. The case shows Apple’s ongoing struggle to balance its App Store control with growing demands for fair competition.

  • Apple faces privacy double standards in Germany

    Apple faces privacy double standards in Germany

    Apple has been under scrutiny in Germany for three years because of its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature. This feature lets iPhone users choose not to have their activities tracked across different apps.

    The German competition authority, Bundeskartellamt, has now shared its initial thoughts, suggesting that Apple’s ATT rules might not be fair. They say that while third-party apps must follow these strict rules, Apple’s own apps do not have to.

    In their latest statement, the Bundeskartellamt pointed out that since ATT was introduced in April 2021, app makers in the iOS App Store need special permission from users to use their data for ads. However, these same strict rules don’t apply to Apple’s apps.

    According to the Bundeskartellamt, this could be against German competition laws for big tech companies and even broader European Union competition rules. They argue that Apple is applying different privacy standards to itself compared to other app developers.

    Apple has now been allowed to reply to these concerns raised by the German authority.

    Interestingly, while ATT was initially seen as a headache for big advertising apps like those from Meta (formerly known as Facebook), it has turned out to be beneficial. Meta has managed to enhance its advertising strategies, using AI to target users more accurately without relying on broad third-party data tracking.

    This situation in Germany highlights ongoing debates about how tech giants manage user data and privacy, setting a precedent for how privacy policies might be enforced in the future.

    Source

  • New security holes found in Apple’s devices

    New security holes found in Apple’s devices

    Security experts have found two major issues, named SLAP and FLOP, that affect all new iPhones, iPads, and Macs, including many older models. These flaws could let someone peek into what’s open on your web browser.

    What Are SLAP and FLOP?SLAP and FLOP are types of security problems discovered by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology. They are similar to famous security issues like Spectre and Meltdown. Both rely on a technique called “speculative execution,” where the chip tries to guess what you’ll do next to speed things up. If this guesswork goes wrong, attackers might sneak in bad data to see things they shouldn’t.

    The Dangers of These FlawsNormally, each tab in Safari is like a locked box, keeping its contents separate from others. But with SLAP, if you’re tricked into visiting a bad website, it could open those locks. It could potentially read your emails, track your location on Apple Maps, or check your bank details.

    FLOP is even trickier; it can do the same thing but also works on Chrome, making it more dangerous. These attacks don’t need any harmful software on your device; they use weak spots in Apple’s own system, making them hard to spot.

    Which Devices Are at Risk?These security issues affect any Apple device with chips from the A15 series or the M2 series and newer. Here’s a list of affected devices:

    • iPhone: iPhone 13, 14, 15, 16, and the third-generation iPhone SE.
    • iPad: iPad Air, Pro, and mini models released from 2021.
    • Mac: MacBook Air, MacBook Pro since 2022; Mac mini, Mac Studio, iMac, and Mac Pro since 2023.

    Real-World Threats?So far, there’s no proof these vulnerabilities have been used against users in real life. Apple has acknowledged the problem and has been working on fixes since they were alerted in May 2024 for SLAP and September 2024 for FLOP. Apple’s statement to Bleeping Computer suggests they don’t see these as urgent threats right now.

    The best advice for now is to be careful with the websites you visit until Apple rolls out a fix.

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  • Apple plans to fix security holes in Safari and Chrome for new devices

    Apple plans to fix security holes in Safari and Chrome for new devices

    Students from Georgia Tech have found two new security problems in Apple’s latest chips. These issues, called SLAP and FLOP, could let someone peek into your private internet activities like browsing history, credit card details, emails, and even where you are, just by using a bad website. You don’t need to touch the device to make this happen; a harmful webpage can do the trick by getting around Apple’s safeguards.

    These flaws affect several of Apple’s newer chips:

    • Mac laptops from 2022 onwards
    • Mac desktops from 2023 onwards
    • iPads made since 2021
    • iPhones from 2021 models onwards

    These vulnerabilities were reported to Apple back in May and September of last year, but they haven’t been fixed yet. Apple has promised to patch these security issues soon.

    Apple has shared with Bleeping Computer that they haven’t fixed these problems yet, saying, “We appreciate the researchers’ teamwork as this test improves our knowledge of these risks. We think this doesn’t present an immediate threat to our users.”

    SLAP only affects the Safari browser, while FLOP can hit both Safari and Chrome. They haven’t checked if other browsers like Firefox might have the same problem. There’s no sign yet that these attacks have happened out there in the real world. For more information on how these attacks work, you can check out the dedicated website that explains everything about SLAP and FLOP.

  • Apple’s Future Tech: A sneak peek at upcoming devices

    Apple’s Future Tech: A sneak peek at upcoming devices

    The tech world is constantly abuzz with rumors and speculation about upcoming devices, and Apple is no exception. Recent whispers suggest exciting updates for both the Apple TV and HomePod mini this year, alongside a glimpse into the future of the MacBook Pro. Let’s dive into what these potential developments might entail.

    A Shared Upgrade for Apple TV and HomePod mini

    Reports indicate that the upcoming Apple TV and HomePod mini will share a key component: a combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip developed by Apple. This chip is rumored to support Wi-Fi 6E, a significant upgrade that extends the capabilities of Wi-Fi 6 to the 6 GHz band. This enhancement promises faster wireless speeds and reduced signal interference, especially beneficial for streaming high-quality video on the Apple TV. While the current Apple TV already supports Wi-Fi 6, this upgrade would bring it in line with the latest wireless standards. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E in the HomePod mini is less certain, as Apple has historically used older Wi-Fi versions in its smart speakers.

    Beyond connectivity, the next Apple TV is expected to receive a performance boost with a newer A-series chip. The current model utilizes the A15 Bionic chip, but with the release of newer chips like the A16, A17 Pro, A18, and A18 Pro, an upgrade seems inevitable. This would translate to smoother navigation, faster app loading times, and improved gaming performance.

    Pricing could also be a pleasant surprise for consumers. Rumors suggest Apple might aim for a sub-$100 starting price for the next Apple TV, making it a more competitive option in the streaming device market.

    While no major design changes are anticipated for the Apple TV, there have been discussions about incorporating a built-in camera in future iterations. This addition would seamlessly integrate with the FaceTime app introduced in tvOS 17, enabling video calls directly from the TV without relying on external devices like iPhones or iPads.

    The next HomePod mini is also rumored to receive several enhancements, including a newer “S” chip for improved processing power, enhanced sound quality, an updated Ultra Wideband chip for smoother Handoff experiences, and potentially new color options. Given that the current HomePod mini was released in 2020 and uses the S5 chip from the Apple Watch Series 5, an upgrade is certainly due. 

    Adding to the smart home ecosystem, Apple is reportedly developing a new smart home hub with a roughly six-inch display. This device could be wall-mounted or attached to a tabletop base with a speaker, blurring the lines between a smart display and a HomePod mini. 

    Looking Ahead: The Future of the MacBook Pro

    While the 2024 MacBook Pro models received a significant overhaul with M4 chips, Thunderbolt 5 ports, and display updates, rumors suggest even more substantial changes are on the horizon.

    One of the most anticipated changes is the introduction of OLED displays. Several sources indicate that 2026 could be the year we see the first MacBook Pros with this technology. OLED displays offer numerous advantages over the current mini-LED screens, including increased brightness, higher contrast ratios with deeper blacks, improved power efficiency, and potentially longer battery life.

    This switch to OLED could also pave the way for a thinner and lighter MacBook Pro design. Apple has been focusing on creating thinner devices without compromising battery life or functionality. This pursuit of thinness raises questions about how Apple will balance this with the reintroduction of ports in the 2021 redesign.

    Another potential design change is the removal of the notch in favor of a punch-hole camera. This would provide more usable screen real estate and a cleaner aesthetic.

    Connectivity could also see a major upgrade with the potential inclusion of a 5G modem. Apple has been developing its own custom 5G chip, and after initial testing in other devices, it might make its way to the Mac lineup as early as 2026. This would enable cellular connectivity for MacBook Pro users, offering greater flexibility and mobility.

    Finally, the 2026 MacBook Pro models are expected to feature M6 series chips. While the 2025 models are predicted to have a modest performance increase with M5 chips, the M6 could bring more significant advancements, potentially utilizing a new packaging process like WMCM (Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module) for even greater integration and performance. 

    These potential upgrades paint an exciting picture for the future of Apple’s devices. While these are still based on rumors and reports, they offer a tantalizing glimpse into what we might expect in the coming years. Only time will tell which of these predictions will come to fruition, but one thing is certain: Apple continues to push the boundaries of technology and innovation.

  • Apple fights App Store rules and plans Foldable iPhone

    Apple fights App Store rules and plans Foldable iPhone

    Apple is in a legal battle with Epic Games, the company behind Fortnite, over App Store rules. On May 8, 2025, Apple asked a U.S. appeals court to pause a court order that changes how the App Store works. A judge ruled that Apple must stop charging fees on purchases made through outside links and cannot control how these links look in apps.

    Apple says this ruling hurts its business and wants to delay it while appealing. The company argues the judge’s decision unfairly forces it to give up control of its operations. This fight started in 2021 when a court said Apple’s rules limited competition, and Epic claims Apple’s changes still don’t follow the order.

    Meanwhile, Apple is working on a foldable iPhone, set to launch in 2026. Reports say it will have a nearly invisible crease when unfolded, making it smoother than other foldable phones. It might also use a special “self-healing” display that fixes small scratches on its own.

    The phone could be as thin as 4.8mm when open but thicker when closed, around 9mm. Apple may use a Touch ID button instead of Face ID to keep the screen slim. This foldable iPhone is expected to cost between $2,000 and $2,500, aiming to stand out in the smartphone market.

    Source/Via

  • Fortnite’s return and Apple’s App Store troubles

    Fortnite’s return and Apple’s App Store troubles

    Epic Games is bringing Fortnite back to the U.S. App Store after a five-year ban, using its Sweden-based account to bypass Apple’s restrictions. This follows a legal battle that began when Apple removed Epic’s U.S. developer account for breaking App Store rules.

    Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, has discussed this plan with Apple, though it’s unclear if Apple fully agrees. The move comes after a court ruling forced Apple to allow developers to link to external payment options without charging fees, a change Epic is leveraging to reintroduce Fortnite.

    Meanwhile, Apple faces a new lawsuit from developers upset over its handling of these court-ordered changes. In 2021, a judge ruled Apple must let developers direct users to outside payment methods. However, when Apple complied in 2024, it still charged 12-27% fees on external transactions, which developers also had to pay alongside payment processor costs.

    The court called this anticompetitive, and now a company called Pure Sweat Basketball, backed by a law firm, is suing Apple on behalf of developers. They claim Apple’s actions unfairly limit competition and hurt their businesses.

    Epic has proposed a deal: if Apple removes its fees globally, Epic will drop all lawsuits and bring Fortnite back worldwide. So far, Apple hasn’t budged and plans to appeal the court’s ruling. These developments highlight ongoing tensions between Apple and developers over App Store policies, with Fortnite’s return marking a significant moment in the fight for fairer rules.

  • Apple’s App Store rules challenged in Epic Games defeat

    Apple’s App Store rules challenged in Epic Games defeat

    Apple faced a significant loss in its legal fight with Epic Games, as the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals backed a 2021 decision. The court ruled that Apple’s tight grip on App Store payments breaks California’s laws against unfair business practices.

    This case, sparked by Epic’s 2020 lawsuit, criticized Apple’s 30% cut on in-app purchases and its block on other payment options. The ruling opens the door for app makers to guide users to alternative payment systems, sidestepping Apple’s fees.

    This could mean lower costs for developers and possibly cheaper apps for consumers. While Apple avoided a harsher judgment—Epic’s claim that Apple runs an unlawful monopoly was dismissed—the decision weakens Apple’s control over its App Store.

    Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, hailed the outcome, with CEO Tim Sweeney calling it a victory for app creators everywhere. Apple, defending its policies as vital for user safety, plans to appeal to the Supreme Court. The clash has already forced changes in how apps manage payments, with more shifts likely on the horizon.

    This outcome may push Apple to loosen its App Store restrictions, giving developers greater flexibility. The Epic-Apple showdown is far from over, but it’s already reshaping the world of mobile apps.

  • Spotify app update allows web payments after Apple ruling

    Spotify app update allows web payments after Apple ruling

    Spotify has updated its iOS app to let users see subscription prices and buy plans directly on its website, bypassing Apple’s in-app payment system. This change comes after a U.S. court ruled that Apple must allow developers to include links to external payment options without charging fees.

    The ruling, part of a legal battle with Epic Games, found Apple in violation of a 2021 order to support fair competition. Spotify called the decision a major win for users, saying it finally lets them share clear pricing and easy payment options. The updated app, now awaiting Apple’s approval, will let users upgrade from free to premium plans, switch between plans like Individual or Family, and use various payment methods on Spotify’s website.

    Apple has agreed to update its App Store rules to follow the court’s order but plans to appeal the decision. The new guidelines allow developers like Spotify, Epic Games, and Patreon to add external payment links in their apps.

    This shift means companies no longer have to pay Apple’s 30% fee for in-app purchases, giving them more control over their revenue. For users, this could mean better deals and more flexible payment options. The change marks a big moment for app developers and could reshape how digital purchases work on iOS apps in the U.S.

    Source/Via

  • Apple’s latest earnings and challenges ahead

    Apple’s latest earnings and challenges ahead

    Apple recently shared its financial results for the second quarter of 2025, showing strong growth. The company earned $95.4 billion in revenue, a 5% increase from last year, and a profit of $24.8 billion, up 8%. Services, like streaming and subscriptions, hit a record high, growing 12%.

    iPhone sales also helped, especially in markets where Apple Intelligence is available, boosting performance. New products, like the iPhone 16e and advanced Macs and iPads, added to the success. Apple’s board approved $100 billion for stock buybacks and raised its dividend to $0.26 per share.

    However, challenges loom. CEO Tim Cook discussed tariffs, noting they had little impact this quarter due to supply chain tweaks. But for the next quarter, tariffs could add $900 million in costs if policies stay unchanged. Cook avoided commenting on price hikes, leaving consumers wondering. Apple is diversifying production, with half of U.S. iPhones now made in India and other products in Vietnam, to reduce reliance on China.

    On the legal front, Apple faces App Store changes after a court ruling favored Epic Games. The company must allow developers to link to external payment options, following a 2021 injunction. Apple disagrees with the decision, plans to appeal, and is complying for now. The outcome remains unclear, but it could affect Apple’s services business. Despite these hurdles, Apple’s focus on innovation and customer loyalty keeps its device base growing. Cook remains optimistic, hinting at exciting products ahead, like a thinner iPhone 17 Air.

    Source/Via/Via

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