Search results for: “ipad air”

During a recent financial discussion for the first quarter of 2025, Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, was quizzed about future iPhone designs. The talk was sparked by whispers about the new “iPhone 17 Air.” Tim Cook usually keeps quiet about upcoming products on these calls, but this time he was upbeat. “We’ve got a lot more in store,” he shared, sounding very hopeful about what’s coming next.

He confirmed that the iPhone still has plenty of room for new ideas. “There’s still so much we can do with smartphones,” Cook remarked. Word on the street is that Apple is working on an incredibly slim iPhone to take over from the “Plus” version. It’s rumored to be just 5 to 6 millimeters thick, making it the slimmest iPhone ever.

When asked if the ultra-slim design of the 12.9-inch M4 iPad Pro was boosting iPad sales, Cook clarified that wasn’t the driver. Instead, the iPad Air and the standard iPad were the ones pushing the 15% sales increase over the holiday season.

This isn’t shocking considering the high price tag on the iPad Pro. There’s mixed chatter about how much the new slim iPhone will cost, but it’s expected to be cheaper than the Pro models. Apple seems set on making it more about design, with plans to use a less powerful chip and only one camera lens.

This focus on a sleek design while keeping costs down could make the “iPhone 17 Air” a popular choice, offering a new look without breaking the bank.

Apple recently shared its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, discussing performance details with CEO Tim Cook and new CFO Kevan Parekh. Here’s a simple breakdown of the key points from the call:

iPhone Sales and Apple Intelligence

While Apple’s services revenue increased, and they saw growth in Mac and iPad sales, iPhone sales dipped slightly. This quarter, iPhones brought in $69.1 billion, less than last year’s $69.7 billion. The new Apple Intelligence feature, introduced in iOS 18, has not yet sparked a big update trend. However, Cook noted that iPhone 16 models are selling better in places where Apple Intelligence is available.

Cook believes that as more people upgrade to newer iPhones, which support Apple Intelligence, usage will grow. He also mentioned upcoming support for more languages in April, which should help. He finds the email summarization feature invaluable, receiving hundreds of emails daily.

Best Quarter Ever

Tim Cook announced that this was Apple’s best quarter yet, with a revenue of $124.3 billion, up by four percent from last year. Apple’s active device count hit a new high at over 2.35 billion worldwide. However, sales in China dropped to $18.5 billion from $20.8 billion last year.

Services Revenue

The services sector shone brightly, earning $26.3 billion, a 14 percent jump from the previous year’s $23 billion. They set new records in the Americas, Europe, and other parts of Asia-Pacific, with over a billion paid subscriptions now.

Mac and iPad Sales

Mac sales were up to $9 billion from $7.8 billion, thanks to the new M4 models. Both new users and upgraders contributed to this growth. iPads also did well, with a 15 percent sales increase, largely due to the iPad Air and the budget iPad models, with many sales going to first-time iPad buyers.

Other Notes

On the topic of DeepSeek and reducing computational costs, Cook sees efficiency-driving innovation positively. Regarding future iPhone designs, he hinted at more innovation to come. With potential tariffs on the horizon, Apple is keeping a close watch but had no further comments.

Looking Ahead

For the next quarter, Apple anticipates low to mid single-digit growth in revenue with a gross margin expected between 46.5 and 47.5 percent.

This earnings call highlights Apple’s ongoing strength in the tech market, even with some challenges like in China, affirming their position as a leader in technology and innovation.

Apple has kicked off its yearly “Back to School” deal in Japan, following earlier launches in places like Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and South Korea. This year, instead of giving away free AirPods or Apple Pencils like in other countries, Japan’s promotion includes Apple Gift Cards when you buy certain Mac or iPad models.

Here’s how it works:

• Buy a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or an iMac, and you’ll get a 22,000 yen Apple Gift Card.
• For those interested in iPads, picking up a new iPad Pro or iPad Air will net you a 15,000 yen Apple Gift Card.

The offer runs from January 30 to April 9, specifically for students and educational staff. If you’re a student at a university, college, or vocational school, or if you work as a teacher or staff member at any educational level, you qualify. Just make sure to verify your status through UNiDAYS when you place your order.

This promotion is a great way for students and educators to save on new tech for the upcoming school year, making it easier to get equipped with the latest Apple 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.

Source

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.

The world of consumer electronics is a constantly shifting market, with prices fluctuating based on demand, new releases, and a host of other factors. One key aspect of this market is the trade-in value of older devices, allowing consumers to offset the cost of upgrading to the latest technology. Recently, Apple has quietly adjusted its trade-in values for a range of its products, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, sparking discussion among tech enthusiasts and consumers alike.

These adjustments, observed on Apple’s website, reflect the dynamic nature of the secondary market for electronics. While some devices saw a slight increase in their trade-in value, others experienced a minor decrease. These changes, generally ranging from $5 to $50, suggest a fine-tuning of Apple’s trade-in program rather than a drastic overhaul.

Let’s delve into some specific examples to illustrate these adjustments. In the iPhone realm, the top-tier iPhone 15 Pro Max saw a modest decrease in its maximum trade-in value, shifting slightly downwards. Similarly, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 models also experienced minor reductions. Interestingly, some older models like the iPhone 14 Pro Max saw a slightly larger decrease, a common trend as newer generations enter the market.

The iPad lineup also saw some movement. The iPad Pro, a popular choice for professionals and creatives, experienced a small dip in its potential trade-in value. The iPad Air and iPad mini followed a similar trend, with minor adjustments downwards. These changes are likely influenced by the release of newer iPad models and the overall demand for these devices in the used market.

Moving to the Mac family, we see a more varied picture. While the powerful MacBook Pro saw a modest increase in its maximum trade-in value, indicating sustained demand for these high-performance machines, the more consumer-focused MacBook Air experienced a slight decrease. This could reflect the availability of newer MacBook Air models with updated processors and features. The Mac Studio, designed for demanding workflows, also saw a slight downward adjustment in its trade-in estimate.

Even Apple’s wearable technology, the Apple Watch, was not exempt from these changes. The Apple Watch Ultra 2, Apple’s flagship smartwatch, saw a small increase in its trade-in value, potentially reflecting its relatively recent release. Conversely, older models like the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 7 experienced minor fluctuations, with some values decreasing and others increasing slightly.

It’s important to remember that these figures represent maximum potential trade-in values. The actual value offered for a specific device depends on its condition, storage capacity, and other factors. A device in pristine condition will naturally command a higher trade-in value than one with visible wear and tear.

Apple’s trade-in program offers a convenient way for consumers to upgrade their devices while recouping some of their initial investment. The trade-in credit can be applied directly towards the purchase of a new Apple product, making the upgrade process more affordable. Alternatively, consumers can opt to receive an Apple gift card for later use, providing flexibility in their future purchases.

These adjustments to trade-in values are a normal part of the tech lifecycle. As new products are released and technology advances, the value of older devices naturally shifts. By regularly evaluating and adjusting its trade-in program, Apple ensures that it remains competitive and provides a fair and transparent experience for its customers.

Whether you’re considering trading in an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch, it’s always a good idea to check Apple’s website for the most up-to-date trade-in estimates to make an informed decision about your upgrade path. These small shifts in value, while seemingly minor, reflect the complex interplay of market forces that shape the world of consumer electronics.

2024 proved to be a dynamic year for Apple, a year of both subtle enhancements and groundbreaking innovation. While not every release screamed “reinvention,” the sheer volume of new hardware – nearly 30 distinct products – painted a picture of a company meticulously refining its existing ecosystem while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of personal technology. Let’s delve into the highlights of Apple’s impressive 2024 product rollout.

A Glimpse into the Future: The Vision Pro Takes Center Stage

Without a doubt, the most significant launch of the year was the Apple Vision Pro. This spatial computing device, unveiled in February, marked Apple’s boldest step into a new product category in years. While its hefty $3,499 price tag positioned it as a device for early adopters and developers, the Vision Pro offered a compelling glimpse into the future of computing.

Blending augmented and virtual reality experiences, the device sparked both excitement and skepticism, raising questions about its practical applications and long-term viability. However, one thing was undeniable: the Vision Pro laid the groundwork for Apple’s vision of spatial computing, a foundation upon which future iterations and applications will undoubtedly be built. It was a statement piece, a declaration of intent, and a clear indication of where Apple sees the future of technology heading.

Subtle Enhancements and Performance Bumps: Refining the Core Product Lines

Beyond the groundbreaking Vision Pro, 2024 was largely a year of refinement for Apple’s core product lines. The first half of the year saw updates to the MacBook Air and iPad Air, offering incremental improvements in performance and features. However, the true star of this period was the iPad Pro.

This flagship tablet received a significant overhaul, boasting stunning OLED displays, a sleeker design, the powerful M4 chip, a redesigned Magic Keyboard, and a more convenient landscape-oriented front-facing camera. These enhancements solidified the iPad Pro’s position as a powerful and versatile device for creative professionals and demanding users. 

Here’s a breakdown of the releases from the first half of the year:

• February: Apple Vision Pro

  March: MacBook Air 13-inch (M3), MacBook Air 15-inch (M3)

  May: iPad Air 11-inch (M2), iPad Air 13-inch (M2), iPad Pro 11-inch (M4), iPad Pro 13-inch (M4), Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro, Apple Pencil Pro

The USB-C Transition and Fall Product Frenzy:

The second half of the year brought the usual flurry of fall product announcements, with a strong focus on completing the transition to USB-C across Apple’s accessory lineup. The long-awaited updates to the AirPods, AirPods Max, Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Mouse finally arrived, bringing them in line with the rest of Apple’s ecosystem. This move streamlined connectivity and ensured compatibility across devices.

The traditional fall updates to the iPhone and Apple Watch also took place. The iPhone 16 lineup emphasized advancements in Apple Intelligence and camera technology, introducing innovative features like the Camera Control. The Apple Watch Series 10 featured a refined design and introduced sleep apnea detection, further enhancing its health and wellness capabilities.  

October saw a minor refresh to the iPad mini, which gained the A17 Pro chip and increased memory to support Apple Intelligence features. This update ensured the compact tablet remained a powerful and versatile device for on-the-go productivity and entertainment.  

Here’s the breakdown of releases from the second half of the year:

• July: HomePod mini (Midnight)
• September: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, MagSafe Charger (25W), Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 2 (Black), AirPods (4th generation), AirPods Max (USB-C)  
• October: iPad mini (A17 Pro), Magic Mouse 2 (USB-C), Magic Trackpad 2 (USB-C), Magic Keyboard (second generation, USB-C), Magic Keyboard with Touch ID (USB-C), Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad (USB-C)

Mac Gets Some Love: The M4 Era Begins

As the year drew to a close, Apple shifted its focus to the Mac lineup. The M4 family of chips made its debut in the iMac, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini. The Mac mini, in particular, received a complete redesign, marking a significant update for the compact desktop after more than a decade. These updates signaled the beginning of the M4 era for the Mac, promising significant performance and efficiency improvements.   

• November: iMac (24-inch, M4, 2024), Mac mini (M4 and M4 Pro, 2024), MacBook Pro (M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max) (14-inch, 2024), MacBook Pro (M4 Pro and M4 Max) (16-inch, 2024)

Looking Ahead: The Road to 2025

With the bulk of its product updates behind it, Apple now looks towards 2025. The remaining Mac models, including the MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro, are expected to receive M4 chip updates. The only major product still awaiting the USB-C transition is the iPhone SE, which is anticipated around March 2025.

2024 was a year of both evolution and revolution for Apple. The launch of the Vision Pro marked a bold step into the future, while updates to existing product lines ensured continued performance and refinement. The completion of the USB-C transition streamlined the ecosystem, and the introduction of the M4 chip family signaled the beginning of a new era for the Mac. As Apple continues to innovate and refine its products, the future of personal technology looks bright.

The tech world is abuzz with anticipation for Apple’s early 2025 product releases. While rumors and leaks should always be taken with a grain of salt, a compelling picture is emerging of what we can expect from the Cupertino giant in the coming months. This article delves into the most anticipated products, offering a comprehensive overview based on current information.

The M4 MacBook Air: A Refinement of a Classic

The MacBook Air has consistently been a top choice for users seeking a balance of portability and performance. The 2025 refresh, powered by the M4 chip, promises to elevate this experience further. Key upgrades expected include:

• M4 Chip: A significant leap in processing power and energy efficiency, offering smoother performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. 
• 16GB RAM Standard: Providing ample memory for multitasking and handling larger files, enhancing overall responsiveness.
• Nano-Texture Display Option: Potentially offering reduced glare and improved viewing in various lighting conditions, a feature previously seen on higher-end models.  
• 12MP Center Stage Camera: Enhanced video conferencing capabilities with improved image quality and automatic framing.
• Improved Battery Life: The M4 chip’s efficiency is expected to translate to longer battery life, a crucial factor for mobile users.
• Familiar Design: Maintaining the sleek and lightweight design in both 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, ensuring continuity for existing users.   

The M4 MacBook Air is anticipated to launch around March, aligning with previous release cycles. This update focuses on internal improvements, solidifying the MacBook Air’s position as a leading ultraportable laptop.

iPhone SE 4: Democratizing Cutting-Edge Technology

The iPhone SE has always been about offering flagship features at a more accessible price point. The fourth generation is poised to be a game-changer, incorporating significant design and technological advancements:

• iPhone 14-Inspired Design: Ditching the Home Button for an edge-to-edge OLED display and Face ID, bringing the SE in line with modern iPhone aesthetics.

  A18 Chip: The same powerful chip found in the flagship iPhone 16, ensuring top-tier performance and future-proofing.

  Apple Intelligence Support: Bringing advanced AI capabilities to the SE, previously reserved for higher-end models.

  8GB of RAM: Providing smooth multitasking and handling demanding apps with ease.

• 48MP Main Camera: A significant upgrade in camera technology, potentially mirroring the iPhone 16’s camera system, promising improved image quality.

  USB-C Port: Adhering to the industry standard and offering faster data transfer and charging.

• Apple-Designed 5G Modem: A significant step for Apple’s vertical integration, potentially leading to improved 5G performance and efficiency.

With a projected price point under $499, the iPhone SE 4 is set to be a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a powerful and modern iPhone experience.

The “HomePad” Smart Display: Reimagining the Smart Home Hub

Perhaps the most intriguing product on the horizon is the “HomePad” smart display. This device aims to revitalize Apple’s presence in the smart home market, offering a unique blend of functionality and design:

• Siri-Centric Experience: Emphasizing voice control and integration with Apple’s ecosystem, focusing on communication and home automation.
• App Integration: Running core Apple apps like Safari, Music, and Notes, but reportedly without a full App Store, focusing on core functionalities.
• Hybrid Interface: Combining touch interaction with voice control powered by Apple Intelligence’s new App Intents, adapting to user proximity.
• Unique Form Factor: Expected to be roughly the size of two iPhones side-by-side, featuring a 6-inch screen, speakers, a FaceTime camera, and a built-in battery.
• Versatile Placement Options: Apple is reportedly developing wall mounts and speaker bases for various locations like desks, tables, kitchens, and nightstands.
• Enhanced Security and Intercom: Prioritizing security and offering video/audio intercom functionality compatible with other home devices.
• Customizable Home Screen: Featuring familiar Apple widgets and home controls, integrating with video doorbells and security cameras with alert support.

The HomePad represents a significant push into the smart home arena, potentially offering a seamless and integrated experience for controlling smart devices, communicating with family members, and accessing information.

iPad (11th Generation): A Subtle but Necessary Update

While details are scarce, the 11th generation iPad is expected to offer a standard iterative update:

• Faster A-Series Chip: A performance boost for smoother operation and handling demanding tasks.
• 8GB of RAM: Ensuring smooth multitasking and responsiveness.
• Updated Connectivity: Potentially featuring Apple’s new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networking chip for improved connectivity.

This update focuses on internal improvements, maintaining the iPad’s position as a versatile and affordable tablet.

Wildcard Possibilities: Expanding the Ecosystem

Beyond the core products, several other devices could make an appearance in early 2025:

• Apple Watch SE 3: A long-awaited update to the affordable smartwatch, potentially launching alongside the iPhone SE 4.
• M3 iPad Air: A refresh of the mid-range tablet with the latest M3 chip, offering a significant performance boost.
• HomePod mini 2 and New Apple TV 4K: Potential updates to existing home devices, aligning with the HomePad launch to create a cohesive smart home ecosystem.

Conclusion: A Promising Start to 2025

Apple’s potential early 2025 product lineup paints a picture of innovation and refinement. From powerful laptops and affordable iPhones to reimagined smart home devices, Apple seems poised to deliver a compelling array of products. While these are based on current information and rumors, the actual releases may vary. Nevertheless, the anticipation surrounding these potential launches underscores Apple’s continued influence on the tech landscape.