Search results for: “device”

  • Moving your digital stuff between Apple accounts just got easier

    Moving your digital stuff between Apple accounts just got easier

    If you’ve got digital content spread across two Apple accounts, there’s good news! Apple has introduced a feature allowing you to move all your digital purchases from one account to another, making it simpler to manage your collection.

    Apple recently updated its support page with easy-to-follow steps on how to transfer apps, music, books, TV shows, and movies from a secondary Apple account to your main one. This can be particularly handy if you’ve been juggling separate accounts for iCloud storage and media purchases.

    Here’s how you can do it:

    • Preparation: You’ll need the email addresses, phone numbers, and passwords for both accounts. Both must have two-factor authentication enabled, and neither should be shared with others. The account you use for iCloud will become your primary account, and the one for media purchases will be your secondary account.
    • Setup: On your iPhone or iPad, sign into one account for iCloud and another for purchases. Ensure both accounts are registered in the same country and check that the secondary account doesn’t have any remaining balance that needs to be used.
    • Migration Process: Navigate to the Settings app, go to ‘Media & Purchases’, click on ‘View Account’, and then select ‘Migrate Purchases’. This process will transfer all your content from the secondary to the primary account.

    After migration, you won’t be able to make purchases with the secondary account anymore; you’ll need to use your primary account on all your Apple devices. All payment methods and subscriptions from the secondary account will move over to the primary one, and any saved queues in Apple TV or podcast libraries will also switch over, potentially replacing existing content.

    Please note, this account migration feature isn’t available in the European Union, the United Kingdom, or India at this time.

    Before you start, it’s wise to review Apple’s guidelines on what happens during the migration and how to reverse it if needed. This way, you can ensure you’re making the best choice for managing your digital content.

  • 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.

    Source

  • Apple’s new software updates bring back Apple Intelligence features

    Apple’s new software updates bring back Apple Intelligence features

    Some people are noticing that Apple’s recent software updates are turning Apple Intelligence back on, even if they had turned it off before.

    If you’ve missed it, Apple released updates for macOS Sequoia 15.3.1, iOS 18.3.1, and iPadOS 18.3.1, which include important security updates everyone should install. However, after these updates, some users, including software developer Jeff Johnson, have reported that their devices, especially those showing a Welcome screen after the update, are automatically enabling Apple Intelligence again.

    In our tests, devices like the M4 Pro Mac mini, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, and M4 iPad Pro showed different behaviors. The iPhones and iPad kept Apple Intelligence off, but the Mac mini re-enabled it after the update. It seems the key is whether you see a Welcome screen for Apple Intelligence, which doesn’t give you an option to set it up later, forcing you to enable it.

    This automatic reactivation is a worry for those who want control over their device settings, especially since Apple Intelligence needs up to 7GB of storage to work. This space is used for keeping AI models on your device for privacy-focused processing. In previous updates, Apple made Apple Intelligence an opt-out feature, meaning it’s on by default.

    If you want to keep Apple Intelligence off, you should check your settings after updating. On your iPhone or iPad, look in Settings under “Apple Intelligence & Siri.” On a Mac, go to System Settings and check the same place. Have you updated recently? Share your experience in the comments.

    In other news, Apple reportedly decided not to partner with DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company, for its Apple Intelligence features. DeepSeek made headlines for creating AI models that are less expensive and use less power, but privacy concerns led to bans on government devices in some countries. Apple needed a local partner for China, looked at several, but seems to be moving forward with Alibaba after initial talks with Baidu didn’t work out. They’ve even submitted a first batch of AI features to China’s regulators for approval.

    Apple also plans to add Chinese language support to Apple Intelligence in an upcoming April update, but this might only apply outside of China until they get the green light there.

    Source/Via

  • Exciting new iPhones coming this year

    Exciting new iPhones coming this year

    Apple is set to release five new iPhone models this year, each bringing something unique to the table. Here’s what you can look forward to with each model:

    iPhone SE 4

    The budget-friendly iPhone SE is getting a major facelift. It’s moving away from the traditional home button to a modern, edge-to-edge screen with a notch. Here’s what else is new:

    • A18 chip: For better performance.
    • 8GB of RAM: More memory for smoother operation.
    • Apple Intelligence support: Enhanced software capabilities.
    • 48MP main camera: Better photos than before.
    • USB-C port: Replacing the Lightning port for universal charging.

    Apple is also introducing its first self-made 5G modem in this model, making it a standout choice for those looking to save without skimping on features.

    iPhone 17 Air

    This fall, the iPhone Plus is out, and the iPhone 17 Air is in. Focused on design, it will:

    • Use the A19 chip (not the Pro version) and 8GB of RAM.
    • Features an ultra-thin body, making it the slimmest iPhone yet.
    • Introduce a new screen size that’s just right between the Pro models.
    • Include Apple’s in-house 5G modem and a high-refresh display.

    The Air promises to be a visually stunning device that might challenge your usual iPhone choice.

    iPhone 17 Pro

    Even with the Air stealing some spotlight, the iPhone 17 Pro isn’t lagging:

    • Keeps the 6.3-inch display but with a new aluminum frame instead of titanium.
    • A larger, rectangular camera bump suggests significant camera upgrades.
    • A19 Pro chip and 12GB of RAM for unmatched power.
    • 24MP front camera upgrades for better selfies across the lineup.

    iPhone 17 Pro Max

    The Pro Max version will have all the Pro features but with:

    • Enhanced battery life thanks to its bigger size.
    • Possibly a smaller Dynamic Island, which could mean an innovative change in how Face ID works.

    iPhone 17

    The base model remains strong:

    • 24MP front camera like its siblings.
    • A19 chip and 8GB of RAM.
    • Retains the 6.1-inch display.

    It’s set to compete not only within the iPhone family but also with the newly upgraded iPhone SE.

    Wrapping Up

    From high-end to budget options, Apple’s 2025 iPhone lineup looks promising, offering something for everyone, whether you’re after performance, design, or value.

  • Siri helps save Florida man after two days

    Siri helps save Florida man after two days

    Daniel Vallaire, a 70-year-old from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, believes Siri was instrumental in saving his life after he suffered a stroke. He was stuck at home, unable to move, for nearly three days last July.

    Vallaire crawled from the bathroom to the living room, struggling to stay awake. He was desperate for help when he remembered Siri could assist him.

    “Hey Siri, call Victoria Vallaire,” he managed to say, and Siri did just that, connecting him to his daughter who had recently moved to California.

    “If Siri wasn’t there, I wouldn’t be here talking to you now,” Vallaire admitted. His call led to his rescue, which was shared by Broward Health in December.

    Recently, Vallaire got to thank the emergency team and medical staff who responded to his call, facilitated by Siri. His daughter has since moved back to Florida to be closer to him after this frightening ordeal.

    Apple has made it easier to use Siri by allowing users to simply say “Siri” instead of “Hey Siri” to activate the assistant. This feature has proven life-saving in Vallaire’s case. Additionally, the Apple Watch offers other health-monitoring features like fall detection and atrial fibrillation detection, enhancing the safety of its users. This story highlights how technology can play a crucial role in life-threatening situations, turning everyday devices into lifelines.

  • 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.

  • Apple updates iOS to fix bugs

    Apple updates iOS to fix bugs

    Apple has just released iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1, small but important updates to the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 systems that were first introduced last September. This update follows closely on the heels of iOS 18.3, which was released just two weeks ago.

    To install the new update, users can go to their device’s Settings, then tap General, and finally select Software Update. This process allows eligible iPhones and iPads to download the update directly over the internet. For those still using iPadOS 17, Apple has also made iPadOS 17.7.5 available.

    According to the notes provided by Apple, this update focuses on fixing bugs and enhancing security for your device. Looking ahead, iOS 18.4 is on the horizon, with expectations that it will be rolled out in April. We might see the first beta version of iOS 18.4 as early as this week.

    This update ensures that your device remains secure and functions smoothly, addressing any small issues that might have crept up in previous versions. Remember, keeping your software up to date is key to enjoying all the latest features and security enhancements Apple has to offer.

  • Making Apple Vision Pro easier to wear

    Making Apple Vision Pro easier to wear

    The main complaints about the Apple Vision Pro have been its cost and its weight. Apple is already working on a cheaper version, and a new patent suggests a way to make the headset lighter. People who tried it early on noted that the headset feels heavy after a while, and I felt the same when I used it.

    John Gruber, a well-known tech commentator, shared similar thoughts:

    “The Vision Pro is heavy. I wore it for hours without pain, but the weight does become tiring. You can’t forget you’re wearing it. Plus, it’s quite big, like a large, heavy pair of goggles on your face.”

    During my hour-long session, I noticed the weight and comfort issues. Comfort is a big challenge with this kind of technology. On a warm day, even by UK standards, my upper face felt hot inside the headset, similar to my experiences with the Meta Quest 2.

    The weight was particularly noticeable after about 30 minutes. With my Quest, I use an extra battery pack at the back, which helps balance the weight. However, the Vision Pro is front-heavy, and that was starting to bother me, especially when moving my head up and down.

    A recent patent from Apple, highlighted by Patently Apple, offers a solution: moving the processor and other components away from the headset, much like they did with the battery.

    The patent starts by discussing the problem:

    “Head-mounted displays (HMDs) should be comfortable for long periods. As we add more features, battery life, and performance, we add more weight. We need to balance comfort with the device’s capabilities.”

    A heavy front can make wearing the device less enjoyable. Apple recognizes this and suggests a need for a lighter HMD that doesn’t compromise on performance. They also tackle the heat problem, suggesting better ways to manage heat. Currently, the Vision Pro uses a separate battery pack to help with weight, and the patent suggests that the processing could be moved into this external “cartridge.”

    This cartridge would house the processor, which would send video to the headset’s display, and could be attached or detached as needed. One idea is to have the processor in a unit that can either sit in the headset or be housed in an external case, providing flexibility in how the user wears the device.

  • Apple is hiring more people to make robots for homes

    Apple is hiring more people to make robots for homes

    Apple is increasing its team of experts to work on new home robots, according to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. The company is just starting to work on a robot that sits on a table, but they’re also thinking about making one that looks like a human down the road.

    This project is being led by two groups at Apple: the Home Labs team, which makes hardware, and another team led by Kevin Lynch, who works on special AI projects. These teams came from Apple’s old self-driving car project, which ended last year.

    In recent weeks, Apple has put out many job ads for people who know a lot about robots. They want to hire folks who will work with a small, smart group to add new features to Apple’s gadgets.

    Just last month, some Apple researchers showed off a robot that looks like a lamp, similar to the playful lamp from Pixar movies. This robot can do things like tell you about the weather, light up for taking photos with your iPhone, remind you to drink water, and even dance to music with you.

    Gurman also shared that Apple is working on a robot with a screen like an iPad, attached to a movable arm. This robot could be ready by 2027 and would mainly work with Siri. It might be able to look at you when you’re on a FaceTime call if you tell it to.

    It seems this new robot might be a fancy version of Apple’s smart home device, which is supposed to come out this year. It would be like a HomePod speaker but with a screen and a robotic arm.

    Source

  • Boost Your Savings: Enhanced Trade-In values for Macs now available

    Boost Your Savings: Enhanced Trade-In values for Macs now available

    Apple has just bumped up the trade-in values for several Mac models in the U.S., allowing you to save more when you decide to upgrade. Here’s a quick look at how much you could get back on your old Mac:

    • MacBook Pro – Now valued at up to $925, was $915
    • MacBook Air – Now up to $435, previously $425
    • MacBook – Increased to up to $140 from $90
    • iMac – You can get up to $315, it was $305 before
    • iMac Pro – Now up to $455, up from $405
    • Mac mini – Valued at up to $375, was $365
    • Mac Studio – Now up to $1,150, a slight increase from $1,140
    • Mac Pro – Up to $720, which was $670 before

    These boosted trade-in values are only available until April 2, so you have a limited time to take advantage of this offer. Whether you’re looking to buy a new Apple device right away or prefer to get an Apple gift card for future use, this is a great opportunity to get more for your old tech.

    You can trade in your Mac either online at Apple’s website or directly at an Apple Store. Once you trade in, the credit can be used towards purchasing a new Apple product or converted into an Apple gift card.

    For more information or to start your trade-in, head over to Apple’s trade-in page. Don’t miss out on these enhanced values to make your next upgrade more affordable!