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  • Apple’s new ‘HomePad’ gets a cooking boost in iOS 18.4

    Apple’s new ‘HomePad’ gets a cooking boost in iOS 18.4

    The iOS 18.4 beta just dropped, and it’s got a cool surprise: a Food hub and cooking guide in Apple News. But here’s the real kicker—a new gadget I’m calling the ‘HomePad’ is on the way, and this cooking feature feels like it was made just for it.

    iOS 18.4 Brings a Fun Cooking Tool

    People thought iOS 18.4 would focus on making Siri smarter. That’s not in the first beta yet—maybe it’s coming in iOS 18.5. Instead, we got a shiny new food section that’s stealing the show. If you’ve got Apple News+, the News app now has a special Food area. It’s packed with recipes, restaurant details, and a handy cooking mode—perfect for food lovers.

    Apple’s press release explains it best:

    The Food feature lets you explore tons of recipes in a Recipe Catalog that grows daily. The layout is simple and pretty, showing ingredients and steps clearly. There’s a cook mode that zooms in on each step, and you can save recipes to use offline later.

    It’s a lot like how Apple Music shows lyrics or Podcasts display transcripts—a clean, bold look that highlights the text. The step you’re on glows, while others stay faded but readable. It works great on iPhones and iPads, but it’s going to shine on the HomePad when it arrives, probably this spring. Maybe it’ll even get its own Cook app!

    HomePad: Your Kitchen Buddy

    Mark Gurman says the HomePad will be super flexible for any room. It’ll come with parts you can swap—like wall mounts for a security panel vibe or bases with speakers for the kitchen or desk. Apple sees it helping with FaceTime calls while you cook or chat in work meetings.

    I bet there’ll be a fridge magnet option too, even if Gurman didn’t mention it.

    We’ve spotted clues in iOS 18.4’s code about this Home gadget, including something called ‘CookingKit’ that fits the HomePad perfectly. Picture this: a hands-free recipe guide where you just say, “Siri, next step,” and keep cooking.

    Cooking help is only one piece of the HomePad puzzle, but it already sounds like a fresh twist on Apple’s lineup.

  • Apple updates AirPods Max with new software

    Apple updates AirPods Max with new software

    Apple just rolled out a fresh software update for the Lightning version of its AirPods Max headphones. The latest version is called 6F25, which replaces the older 6F21 version that the headphones were used before.

    AirPods Max in green shade

    Apple doesn’t usually share a lot of details about what’s new in these updates. Since this one is for an earlier model, it’s probably packed with small fixes and tweaks to make the headphones work better. To get the update, place your AirPods Max close to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that’s hooked up to Wi-Fi. Then, plug the headphones in to charge. The update might take up to 30 minutes to finish.

    Want to see which version your AirPods Max are running? Just connect them to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, head to Settings > Bluetooth, and tap the Info button next to your AirPods Max name.
    This simple process keeps your headphones running smoothly with the latest improvements Apple has to offer.

  • iOS 18.4 Beta pulled for iPhone 12 models and more

    iOS 18.4 Beta pulled for iPhone 12 models and more

    Last week, Apple released the first iOS 18.4 beta for developers to try out. However, they’ve stopped offering it for some devices because of problems. According to Aaron Perris from MacRumors, the iOS 18.4 beta can’t be installed anymore on the iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, or iPhone 12 Pro Max. It’s also unavailable for certain older iPad Air models and basic iPads.

    The trouble started when the beta caused some iPhone 12 devices and others to get stuck in a “boot loop.” This means the device kept restarting and couldn’t be used. That’s why Apple always reminds users to save a backup of their iPhone before trying beta versions. Early software like this can have big glitches.

    Here’s the list of devices where iOS 18.4 beta 1 is no longer active:

    • iPhone 12 Pro
    • iPhone 12 Pro Max
    • iPhone 12 Mini
    • iPad 8 (Cellular)
    • iPad Air 4th Gen (Wi-Fi and Cellular)
    • iPad Air 11-inch (M2) (Cellular)
    • iPad Air 13-inch (M2) (Cellular)

    There might have been extra issues with some cellular iPad Air models, beyond just the boot loop. Apple also stopped the first watchOS 11.4 beta for the Apple Watch Series 6. The company is expected to fix these problems and release the betas again for the affected devices, but no one knows when that’ll happen.

    Sadly, this isn’t the first time Apple has had to pull back a beta update because of bugs. For now, if you’re using one of these devices, you’ll have to wait for a more stable version. Always back up your stuff before testing new software—it’s a small step that can save you a lot of headaches!

  • Apple’s smart features now available in the EU with iOS 18.4

    Apple’s smart features now available in the EU with iOS 18.4

    The latest iOS 18.4 update brings a bunch of exciting changes for iPhone users. For those in the EU, there’s one massive highlight in the first beta version: Apple’s smart features, called Apple Intelligence, are finally fully available.

    Apple Intelligence Arrives for EU Users with iOS 18.4 Beta

    When Apple first showed off Apple Intelligence at WWDC last June, excitement quickly turned to disappointment for EU users. The company said its AI tools wouldn’t work in the EU at launch due to some tricky local rules they had to figure out. This restriction only hit iPhones and iPads because of specific EU laws under the Digital Markets Act. Macs, however, weren’t affected.

    After a long wait, Apple shared some great news. Just as Apple Intelligence rolled out widely, the company promised EU iPhone users they’d get it too—in April through a software update. That update looks like it’s iOS 18.4. The first iOS 18.4 beta is out now, and EU beta testers can already enjoy Apple Intelligence ahead of the big April release. This update also adds support for more languages, which fits perfectly with the timing.

    No More Limits for EU Users

    Before this, EU iPhone and iPad owners couldn’t use Apple Intelligence at all. It didn’t matter how your device was set up—Apple blocked it based on where you were. Now, that’s history. For beta testers, the only place still missing out is China, but there’s hope that might change soon too.

    If you’re not on the beta, no worries—iOS 18.4 will hit all devices in early April, bringing Apple Intelligence to everyone in the EU. This update marks a big win for iPhone fans who’ve been patiently waiting to try out these clever new tools.

  • Apple’s new C2 modem set to shine in iPhone 18 Pro next year

    Apple’s new C2 modem set to shine in iPhone 18 Pro next year

    Apple is gearing up to launch its brand-new C2 modem in 2026, and it’s expected to first show up in the iPhone 18 Pro models. This news comes from Mark Gurman, a well-known tech writer, who shared the update in his recent Power On newsletter from Bloomberg.

    In his article, Gurman explained that Apple is already trying out the C2 modem and even working on the next one, called the C3, which might come in 2027. By then, Apple hopes its modem will be better than the ones made by Qualcomm, a company known for top-notch modem tech. Reports from MacRumors also confirm Apple is testing this C2 version.

    The company introduced its first homemade modem, the C1, with the iPhone 16e just last week. Apple claims this chip uses less power than any iPhone modem before, helping the 6.1-inch iPhone 16e last longer on a single charge—outdoing even the pricier iPhone 16.

    Gurman also mentioned that Apple’s second 5G modem will roll out with the iPhone 18 series in 2026 and hit iPad Pro models by 2027. This upgraded modem should keep up with Qualcomm’s best by supporting super-fast mmWave 5G, something the C1 can’t do yet.

    Looking ahead, Apple’s rumored super-slim iPhone 17 Air is next in line to get the C1 modem. This sleek new phone is expected to take the place of the Plus model in the iPhone 17 family, set to launch around mid-September next year.

    Apple’s push into making its modems shows its big plans to improve iPhone performance and battery life while stepping up to challenge the leaders in mobile tech. Fans can look forward to faster, longer-lasting devices in the coming years!

  • Unveiled: Fresh camera looks for the iPhone 17 family

    Unveiled: Fresh camera looks for the iPhone 17 family

    A sneak peek at Apple’s next iPhone 17 series has popped up online, thanks to leaker Majin Bu. He shared a design sketch showing off the new back camera styles for the regular iPhone 17, a super-slim iPhone 17 Air, and the high-end iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

    Majin Bu has gotten some leaks right before, but he’s also missed the mark—like predicting an iPad 11 launch in 2023 that never happened. This time, though, other trusted sources from Weibo, like Fixed Focus Digital, Ice Universe, and Digital Chat Station, agree the sketch looks legit based on their info from Apple’s suppliers in China. “It’s pretty much spot-on,” said Digital Chat Station about the design. Looks like this might be the real deal!

    Fixed Focus Digital added, “The sketches are solid. Here’s a little extra: the iPhone 17 Pro versions will likely mix glass and metal. The logo area will be glass, set into a metal body.” This could explain the red patches on the Pro models in the image. The word is, Apple’s aiming for a tougher build with half glass and half aluminum—keeping wireless charging alive while making the phone less likely to break.

    There’s also talk that the iPhone 17 Pro models might let you charge other Apple gadgets wirelessly—a cool new trick! Apple’s shaking things up with the cameras on the iPhone 17 Pro models, swapping the old square bump for a wide aluminum bar stretching across the back. The brand-new iPhone 17 Air, stepping in for the Plus model, will sport a Matching flat bar too, but with just one camera lens.

    The basic iPhone 17, however, will stick to the familiar camera setup from the iPhone 16, keeping the standard and fancy models distinct. Analyst Jeff Pu says the iPhone 17, Pro, and Pro Max will rock aluminum frames, while the iPhone 17 Air might get a titanium one. Titanium showed up in Pro models in 2023, but Pu thinks Apple’s switching to aluminum for the Pros to be greener. What’s your take on these rumored iPhone 17 changes? Drop your thoughts below! Apple’s expected to show them off in September, as usual.

  • Apple unveils $500 Billion plan to boost U.S. jobs and growth

    Apple unveils $500 Billion plan to boost U.S. jobs and growth

    Apple recently shared exciting news about pouring $500 billion into the United States over the next four years. This massive investment will bring 20,000 new jobs and grow the company’s work in manufacturing and research, as reported by Bloomberg. The announcement follows a meeting between Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, and President Donald Trump.

    The company has big plans, including building a new server-making plant in Houston. This 250,000-square-foot facility, set to open next year, will team up with Foxconn to create servers for Apple’s Private Cloud computing system. Apple is also launching a supplier training center in Michigan to prepare the next wave of American manufacturers. Plus, they’re expanding data centers in states like Arizona, Oregon, Iowa, Nevada, and North Carolina. Chip-making for some Apple Watch and iPad models has already kicked off at TSMC’s Arizona site.

    The 20,000 new jobs will focus on research, chip design, and artificial intelligence. This follows Apple’s earlier push, which added 20,000 research roles in the past five years. In Detroit, Apple will open a special academy to help smaller businesses learn manufacturing skills. The company is also boosting its U.S. manufacturing fund to $10 billion.

    “We believe in America’s bright future and are thrilled to add $500 billion to support it,” Cook said. “We’ll keep partnering with people and businesses nationwide to shape an amazing new story for American innovation.”

    This news might be timed cleverly, as Trump has talked about adding a 10% tax on imports from China. In his first term, Cook convinced Trump to skip tariffs on iPhones, warning they’d help rivals like Samsung instead.

    Apple’s bold move shows its confidence in America and could spark more growth and jobs ahead. Note: Since this topic touches on political and social themes, the discussion is in our Political News forum. Everyone can read it, but only members with 100+ posts can comment.

  • AirPods Pro 2 now helps with Hearing in the UK

    AirPods Pro 2 now helps with Hearing in the UK

    Apple has shared exciting news: the AirPods Pro 2 now comes with a special hearing aid feature that’s easy to use and available in the United Kingdom.

    AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Support

    Sumbul Desai, a top expert at Apple, said, “We’re thrilled to use technology to improve lives. Bringing this hearing aid option to the UK gives AirPods Pro 2 users a full hearing care experience.” She’s Apple’s vice president of Health.

    This new feature makes everyday sounds clearer for adults who feel they have mild to moderate hearing trouble. Apple says it’s free in countries where it’s offered, and it comes through simple software updates.

    The hearing aid works by using a personal hearing profile. This profile comes from a quick five-minute Hearing Test that checks how well someone hears different sound levels. After the test, users get a result showing their hearing ability and tips on what to do next. The profile also adjusts sound for music, movies, games, and calls on all connected devices.

    Apple first rolled out these hearing tools in the US and a few other places in late October with iOS 18.1. Then, in December, iOS 18.2 brought the Hearing Test to more countries like France, Italy, Spain, and the UK, plus the hearing aid feature to the United Arab Emirates. Now, UK users can enjoy both the test and the hearing aid feature.

    To use these hearing tools, AirPods Pro 2 need firmware version 7B19 or higher. The update happens on its own when the AirPods are charging and near an iPhone, iPad, or Mac with Wi-Fi. This update shows Apple’s focus on making life better with smart, simple tech. UK users can now hear the world around them more clearly, all thanks to their AirPods Pro 2.

  • Apple set to release new MacBook Air with M4 Chip soon

    Apple set to release new MacBook Air with M4 Chip soon

    Apple is getting ready to roll out a fresh take on its 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air laptops, powered by the new M4 chip. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the big reveal is expected to happen in March.

    Talk about this M4 MacBook Air has been buzzing for a while now. Hints of it popped up in the macOS 15.2 beta back in December, making it seem like the launch was close. Gurman had even hinted that the MacBook Air would hit the market before other spring releases, like the iPhone 16e and iPad Air. But while the iPhone 16e is already out, the MacBook Air has kept us waiting.

    That wait might finally be ending soon. Gurman says Apple is gearing up for a March launch and is busy getting its marketing, sales, and store teams ready. He also mentioned that the older M2 and M3 MacBook Air models are running low in stock at stores, which could be a sign the new version is on its way.

    As for what’s new with the M4 MacBook Air, the details are slim. The star of the show is the M4 chip, but there could be a few other upgrades too. Some possibilities include faster Thunderbolt 4 ports (instead of the current USB 4/Thunderbolt 3 setup), a better Center Stage camera for video calls, and maybe even a nano-texture screen option to cut down on glare.

    These features have already shown up in other Macs with the M4 chip, so they’d make sense here too. Apple fans won’t have to wait much longer to see what’s in store. With March just around the corner, the new MacBook Air could be here before we know it!

    Source

  • Apple stops new iOS 18.4 and watchOS 11.4 test updates for some devices

    Apple stops new iOS 18.4 and watchOS 11.4 test updates for some devices

    Today, Apple halted the watchOS 11.4 beta 1 update for all Apple Watch Series 6 users, meaning they can’t try out this early version anymore. This info comes from Aaron Perris on X. Apple also paused iOS and iPadOS 18.4 beta 1 for certain iPhones and iPads.

    watchOS 11.4 Beta Removed

    Apple rolled out the watchOS 11.4 beta just yesterday, along with iOS 18.4 beta, visionOS 2.4 beta, and others. While those updates brought some cool new stuff, it’s not clear what was different about watchOS 11.4 beta.

    Two people on the r/watchOSbeta subreddit said their Apple Watches stopped working after installing it. One mentioned they had a Series 6, but the other didn’t say which model. Because of this, Apple likely decided to pull the update. Aaron says this affects all Series 6 versions: GPS (40mm and 44mm) and GPS + Cellular (40mm and 44mm).

    iOS and iPadOS 18.4 Beta Stopped Too

    Apple also blocked iOS 18.4 beta 1 for several devices, like most iPhone 12 models, some 2020 iPads, and the cellular versions of the latest iPad Air. People noticed their devices kept restarting after the update, though the exact problem isn’t clear. Here’s the list of affected devices:

    • iPhone 12 Pro
    • iPhone 12 Pro Max
    • iPhone 12 mini
    • iPad 8 (Cellular)
    • iPad Air 4 (Wi-Fi)
    • iPad Air 4 (Cellular)
    • iPad Air 11-inch (M2) (Cellular)
    • iPad Air 13-inch (M2) (Cellular)

    Hopefully, Apple will fix these issues and bring the betas back soon. It’s funny how most of the devices having trouble came out in 2020. For now, users with these gadgets will have to wait a bit longer for the next test versions.

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