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  • Exciting new Apple gadgets coming soon

    Exciting new Apple gadgets coming soon

    The new year of 2025 is off to a great start with Apple ready to unveil some impressive gadgets in the coming months. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect:

    M4 MacBook Air

    Apple’s beloved MacBook Air is getting a boost with the M4 chip. This update is set to include:

    • 16GB of RAM as standard
    • A new nano-texture display option
    • A 12MP camera for better video calls
    • Support for two external displays when the laptop is open
    • Better battery life
    • Keeping the familiar 13-inch and 15-inch designs

    Look for this refreshed MacBook Air sometime in February or early March.

    iPhone SE 4

    The iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a must-have for many:

    • It boasts an iPhone 14-like design with an OLED screen and no home button
    • Includes Face ID with a notch
    • Runs on the powerful A18 chip
    • Supports Apple Intelligence, previously only on higher-end models
    • Comes with 8GB of RAM and a 48MP camera
    • Has a USB-C port and Apple’s first self-made 5G modem
    • Priced to be affordable, expected under $499

    This new iPhone SE is slated for a March release.

    ‘HomePad’ Smart Display

    Apple is set to mix things up with the ‘HomePad’, a smart home device:

    • It will focus on voice commands through Siri, home control, and communication
    • You can use apps like Safari and Music, but there’s no App Store
    • The screen size is about that of two iPhones side by side
    • Includes speakers, a camera for FaceTime, and a battery
    • You can mount it on walls or place it on various surfaces
    • It’s designed with security in mind, including features for video and audio intercom

    Though initially expected in March, there might be a slight delay.

    11th Generation iPad

    Apple fans can look forward to the new 11th-generation iPad:

    • It’s likely to feature a new, faster A-series chip with 8GB RAM
    • Could include new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips
    • This update aims to keep the iPad accessible and up-to-date

    M3 iPad Air

    The iPad Air is also in line for an upgrade with the M3 chip:

    • Expected to support new keyboard accessories
    • Will maintain the 11-inch and 13-inch sizes

    Apple Watch SE 3

    There’s talk of a new Apple Watch SE:

    • Could be released in the spring, possibly alongside the iPhone SE 4
    • An update from the last SE model which came out in 2022

    These product launches promise a dynamic start to 2025 for Apple, setting the stage for an exciting year with more innovations expected at WWDC and the fall launch season.

  • Issues with the new CarPlay update

    Issues with the new CarPlay update

    Apple is facing some challenges with its CarPlay system. There are actually two main issues. First, the much-talked-about new version of CarPlay, which was introduced at WWDC 2022, hasn’t made its way into any cars yet. Apple promises it’s collaborating with various car makers to bring this update to life, but we’re still waiting.

    However, the bigger issue might be how Apple is overlooking the current version of CarPlay, which is already in millions of cars on the road.

    Apple’s CarPlay Dilemma

    Apple seems very focused on rolling out the new CarPlay, which is a big project needing close cooperation with each car manufacturer. While this is exciting, it will take years before it’s as common as the current CarPlay.

    Apple boasts that over 98% of new cars in the U.S. come with CarPlay, except for brands like Tesla, GM, and Rivian. Despite this success, the current CarPlay feels outdated to many users.

    Neglecting Current Users

    It appears Apple is adopting an all-or-nothing strategy. There are features from the new CarPlay that could improve the current system without needing manufacturer support. Since CarPlay mirrors the iPhone’s screen, Apple could enhance it via iPhone software updates.

    Possible Improvements for Current CarPlay Users

    • New Apps: Apple hasn’t added new built-in apps to CarPlay in a long while. For instance, adding a Weather app could be straightforward.
    • More Customization: Users can currently only rearrange app icons and choose from a few wallpapers. More options like custom themes, better control over the dashboard layout, or using any photo as wallpaper would enhance user experience.
    • Enhanced HomeKit Integration: CarPlay lets you control basic HomeKit devices, but there’s room for improvement. Adding more direct controls or a simplified Home app interface could be beneficial.
    • EV-Friendly Features: Apple Maps does a great job with EV routing in a few models, but it could offer more for EV users. Even without real-time battery data, features like better charger location mapping could be added.

    Conclusion

    While I’m excited about what the next CarPlay promises, I hope Apple doesn’t forget the millions of people using the existing version. They deserve updates that can make their driving experience better, even as the new system is developed. Right now, it feels like the current CarPlay is being left behind.

  • What’s new in iOS 18.3: Apple’s latest update details

    What’s new in iOS 18.3: Apple’s latest update details

    Apple has just released iOS 18.3 for everyone to download. We’ve already covered the new features, but here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new according to Apple’s official notes:

    Visual Intelligence with Camera Control (For all iPhone 16 models):

    • Add Events to Calendar: Now you can add an event to your Calendar just by snapping a picture of a poster or flyer.
    • Identify Plants and Animals: Your camera can now help you learn about nature by identifying different plants and animals.

    Notification Summaries (For iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max):

    • Manage Summaries Easily: You can now control your notification summary settings right from the lock screen.
    • New Look for Summaries: Notifications that are summarized now show up in italics and with a special icon, making them easy to spot.
    • Temporary Hold on Some Apps: Summaries for News and Entertainment apps are paused for now, but you can choose to get them back when they’re ready.

    Other Updates and Fixes:

    • Calculator: If you press equals again, it will repeat your last calculation, making quick math easier.
    • Siri: No more issues with the keyboard disappearing when you start typing a command.
    • Apple Music: Fixed a problem where music would keep playing even after you close the app.

    This update aims to make your iPhone experience smoother and more intuitive. Whether you’re organizing your schedule or just exploring the outdoors, iOS 18.3 has something to make daily tasks a bit easier.

  • Apple releases iOS 18.3 with new features and fixes

    Apple releases iOS 18.3 with new features and fixes

    Apple has recently rolled out iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3, bringing new features and improvements to iPhones and iPads. This update follows six weeks after the release of iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2.

    Updating Your Device

    To get the new software, simply go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone or iPad. Apple also updated iPadOS to version 17.7.4 for older iPads that can’t handle the latest iPadOS 18.

    New Features for iPhone 16

    For those with iPhone 16 models, iOS 18.3 introduces Visual Intelligence. Now, you can add events to your Calendar just by taking a picture of a poster or flyer. Plus, it’s easier to identify plants and animals around you.

    Changes in Notifications

    This update also tweaks how notifications work. It makes notification summaries easier to manage from your Lock Screen and changes their appearance to stand out better by using italic text. However, for now, summaries for news and entertainment apps are paused to avoid sending out confusing alerts.

    Bug Fixes and Enhancements

    • The Calculator app now repeats your last calculation if you tap the equals sign again.
    • Fixed a problem where the keyboard might vanish when you start typing a request to Siri.
    • An issue where music keeps playing even after you’ve closed Apple Music has been sorted out.

    Note

    Some of these new features might not be available everywhere or on every Apple device. For more on security updates, check out Apple’s support page at:

    Apple Support

    Looking Ahead

    • We’re looking forward to iOS 18.4 beta, which is expected to bring new Apple Intelligence features for Siri, enhancing your interaction with your device even further.
  • Simple guide to iOS 18.3 update

    Simple guide to iOS 18.3 update

    Apple has announced that the new iOS 18.3 update will be available very soon, possibly even today. They made this known while introducing a new Black Unity Sport Loop for the Apple Watch.

    Changes in Notification Summaries

    iOS 18.3 has changed how notification summaries look and work. Now, you’ll see summaries in italic text, making them easier to spot. However, Apple has turned off news summary features for now because they weren’t always getting the stories right. They’ve promised to fix this in the next update. Also, you can now tweak your notification summary settings right from your phone’s lock screen.

    Visual Intelligence Gets Better

    If you have an iPhone 16, you’re in for a treat with iOS 18.3. It upgrades the Visual Intelligence feature which you activate with the Camera Control button. Now, you can use your camera to learn more about things around you, like adding events to your calendar from posters or identifying plants and animals. This cool feature isn’t available on older iPhones though.

    Calculator App Update

    A handy little feature has returned to the Calculator app in iOS 18.3. If you hit the equals button again, it’ll repeat the last calculation, which is great for figuring out things like compound interest without retyping everything.

    Celebrating Black History Month

    To celebrate Black History Month, Apple has released a special Black Unity Sport Loop band for the Apple Watch, along with a new Unity Rhythm watch face and matching wallpapers for your iPhone and iPad. These will come with the iOS 18.3 update.

    Bug Fixes

    iOS 18.3 also tackles some bugs. It fixes a problem where the keyboard might vanish when you’re typing to Siri, and another where music keeps playing even after you’ve closed the Apple Music app.

    Future Home App Feature

    Although not active yet, iOS 18.3’s code hints at upcoming support for robot vacuums in the Home app. Apple says this feature will be available in a future update, possibly iOS 18.4.

    So, keep an eye out for this update, which promises to make your iPhone experience smoother and more enjoyable.

  • How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    Sometimes, you may want to use your MacBook with the lid closed. For example, you might connect it to an external monitor to free up desk space or let it continue downloading files or playing music without interruptions. However, by default, closing the lid puts the MacBook to sleep. Here’s how to prevent that.

    Using a MacBook with the Lid Closed

    Modern MacBooks and macOS versions make it easier to keep your Mac running with the lid shut. To do this, you’ll need an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse (wired or Bluetooth).

    1. Connect an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
    2. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled, and your devices are paired if they are wireless.
    3. Close the MacBook lid once the desktop appears on the external monitor.
    4. If the screen turns off momentarily, press a key or move the mouse to wake the display.
    5. In some cases, your Mac may need to be plugged into a power source to stay awake.

    Note: Without an external monitor, closing the lid will still cause the MacBook to sleep.

    Preventing Sleep Without an External Monitor

    If you want your MacBook to stay awake while downloading files, playing music, or running updates, you can adjust the settings depending on your macOS version.

    macOS Monterey and Earlier

    1. Open System Preferences.
    2. Go to Battery (or Energy Saver).
    3. Select “Prevent your Mac from automatically sleeping when the display is off.”

    macOS Ventura and Later

    In newer versions of macOS, the settings have changed, but you can still keep your Mac awake:

    1. Open Terminal.
    2. Enter this command:
      sudo pmset -a disablesleep 1  
      

    Using Third-Party Apps

    For a simpler solution, apps like Amphetamine (free) or Caffeinated ($3.99) can keep your Mac awake. These apps override the default sleep settings and provide more control over sleep prevention.

    Now you can keep your MacBook active, whether connected to an external display or running tasks with the lid closed.

  • Apple updates CarPlay information, removes 2024 launch date

    Apple updates CarPlay information, removes 2024 launch date

    Apple has recently updated its website, removing the previously mentioned “2024” launch date for the next version of CarPlay. Just over three weeks into 2025, this change hints at a delay without specifying a new launch window.

    The next version of CarPlay was initially teased to come with cars in 2024, but as that didn’t happen, Apple has quietly adjusted its information. The website still talks about the upcoming CarPlay, suggesting it hasn’t been scrapped, but there’s no new timeline for when we might see it.

    It’s not clear who’s behind the delay – Apple, the car companies, or both. We’ve asked Apple for more details.

    Back in 2022, at WWDC, Apple gave us a first look at this advanced CarPlay. It would work closely with the car’s own systems, showing up on multiple screens like the dashboard and control panel. Features include an FM radio app, personalized widgets, and controls for the car’s climate directly from CarPlay, all tailored to match the brand and model of the vehicle.

    Even though the launch has been pushed back, there are signs it might still happen. New code in the latest iOS beta mentions CarPlay, and Apple has recently added new images to an EU database.

    Aston Martin and Porsche had shown off what their instrument clusters might look like with this new CarPlay, but they haven’t put it into use yet. Apple had promised support from a list of car makers including Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, among others, though it’s uncertain if all are still on board.

    Apple’s recent statement reaffirms their commitment to the project:

    “The next CarPlay version is designed to blend Apple’s technology with each car maker’s unique style. We’re working with various car companies to make sure this happens, and they’ll share more when their new models are ready.”

    No new date was given for when we might see this updated CarPlay in action, keeping everyone guessing about its arrival.

  • What’s coming in the next iPhone software update?

    What’s coming in the next iPhone software update?

    Apple is set to roll out the new iOS 18.3 update next week after months of testing. Even though it’s not a huge update, it does bring some cool new features and fixes for iPhone users.

    Changes in Notifications

    Apple has decided to pause its AI-powered news summaries because they’ve been getting some details wrong. In iOS 18.3, you’ll see summarized notifications in italics so they’re easy to spot. Also, you can now tweak your notification summary settings right from your lock screen. Apple has promised to make these summaries better in future updates.

    New Visual Intelligence Features

    If you’ve got one of the iPhone 16 models, you can enjoy enhanced Visual Intelligence. This feature lets you get instant info about things around you by just holding down the Camera Control button. Now, you can add events to your calendar from posters you see in public, and it can even tell you about different animals or plants. Remember, these features are only for the latest iPhone models.

    Calculator App Gets a Boost

    A handy feature is back in the Calculator app with iOS 18.3. Now, when you hit the equals button twice, it repeats the last calculation, which is super useful for things like figuring out compound interest.

    Maybe Something for Black Unity

    There’s a hint in the tvOS update code about a possible “UNITY25” campaign, suggesting Apple might celebrate Black Unity again this year with new watch bands, faces, or iPhone wallpapers. Nothing’s confirmed yet, but we might hear something soon.

    Bug Fixes and More

    iOS 18.3 also fixes some annoying bugs. For instance, Siri won’t make your keyboard vanish when you try to type a request, and Apple Music will stop playing when you close the app, not after the song ends. There’s also talk about adding support for robot vacuums in the Home app, but that seems to be pushed to a later update.

    This update is shaping up to make your iPhone experience smoother and more useful, especially if you’ve got the latest model. Keep an eye out for the official release next week.

  • One cool update in the new M4 MacBook Air

    One cool update in the new M4 MacBook Air

    Apple is about to release the M4 MacBook Air, which might be the first new product they launch this year. There’s one big reason why you might want to upgrade from the M2 or even the M3 models: better support for extra screens.

    Screen Limits Have Been a Problem for MacBook Airs

    In the past, MacBook Airs with M1 and M2 chips could only connect to one extra screen, which was a bit of a bummer for many users who needed more space.

    Last Year’s M3 Model Made Some Improvements

    The M3 MacBook Air from last year allowed you to use two extra screens, but you had to keep the laptop closed. This was better than before but still not ideal if you wanted to use the laptop’s keyboard and touchpad.

    The M4 MacBook Air Changes Things Up

    The upcoming M4 MacBook Air will have the same chip as the basic MacBook Pro and is expected to let you use two external screens while keeping your laptop open.

    This means you could have three screens in total: two extra ones plus the laptop’s screen. This feature is already in the M4 MacBook Pro, so it makes sense for the M4 Air to have it too.

    Why This Matters

    For many, this could be a big enough reason to upgrade. If you’re still using an M3, M2, or M1 MacBook Air, being able to work with two extra monitors without closing your laptop is a game-changer. It lets you use the laptop’s keyboard and touchpad, saving you from buying additional gear, and gives you more screen space to work with.

    This upgrade could really make the M4 MacBook Air a top choice for those looking for an efficient and versatile laptop setup.

  • When will the new iPhone SE, iPad 11, and iPad Air come out?

    When will the new iPhone SE, iPad 11, and iPad Air come out?

    A leak has recently given us hints about when we might see the new iPhone SE 4, iPad 11, and iPad Air models.

    A private account on X (formerly Twitter) shared that these upcoming devices will come with iOS 18.3 or iPadOS 18.3 already installed when they hit the market. While we don’t know the exact release date, it looks like they’ll be announced sometime between March and April, before iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4 roll out.

    The leak included the build numbers for these new software versions:

    • iOS 18.3 for iPhone SE (4th generation): 22D8062
    • iPadOS 18.3 for iPad 11 and iPad Air (2025): 22D2060, 22D2062

    The final test versions of iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3 were released this week, suggesting that the updates might be available for current devices next week.

    Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman mentioned that new MacBook Air models with the M4 chip might be announced before these iPads and iPhone, potentially making them Apple’s first big reveal of 2025.

    The new iPhone SE is expected to look like the iPhone 14 or iPhone 16 with a 6.1-inch OLED screen, Face ID, a USB-C port, and a single 48-megapixel camera. It might also have a new A-series chip, 8GB of RAM to support Apple’s AI features, and Apple’s own 5G modem.

    The iPad 11 is rumored to have an A17 Pro chip with 8GB of RAM, also supporting Apple’s AI features. For the iPad Air, there’s some confusion; some leaks suggest an M3 chip, while others hint at the M4 chip that’s in the latest iPad Pro.

    New Magic Keyboards are also on the way for these iPads.

    This information gives us a clearer picture of what to expect from Apple in the coming months.

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