Search results for: “iphone se 2”

  • Five cool features coming to Apple’s new Homepad

    Five cool features coming to Apple’s new Homepad

    Apple just revealed a new smart home device called HomePad, and it’s packed with exciting features designed to make your home smarter and more connected. Here are five key features you should know about:

    1. Easy setup with iPhone
      Setting up HomePad is super simple. Just bring your iPhone close to it, and it automatically syncs your Apple ID, Wi-Fi settings, and more—just like setting up AirPods or a HomePod.

    2. Works with Matter
      HomePad fully supports Matter, the new smart home standard that works with devices from different brands. This means you can control smart devices from Apple, Google, Amazon, and others—all from the same app.

    3. Multi-display support
      HomePad supports multiple displays at once. So, you can control smart lights from the kitchen while watching a camera feed in the living room. It makes multitasking across rooms easy and smooth.

    4. Hand off FaceTime and calls
      You can start a FaceTime call on your iPhone and then transfer it to the HomePad instantly. It even works with other video calling apps, making your video chats more flexible.

    5. Smart home automation with Siri
      Siri on HomePad helps automate tasks like locking doors at night or turning off lights when you leave home. You can also set up routines that adjust based on time or who’s in the house.

    Apple hasn’t given a release date yet, but these features show they’re aiming to make HomePad a powerful hub for your smart home.

  • Apple brings CarPlay Ultra to more cars and adds Spotify playlist import to Apple Music

    Apple brings CarPlay Ultra to more cars and adds Spotify playlist import to Apple Music

    Apple has officially launched CarPlay Ultra, its upgraded in-car system that works with iOS 18. This new version offers deeper integration with car hardware, including gauges and climate controls, while still showing familiar iPhone apps on a larger dashboard screen. Drivers can view maps, music, and even check their speed or fuel levels—all from one interface. Porsche and Aston Martin are among the first to bring this next-gen CarPlay to their latest models.

    CarPlay Ultra doesn’t just look better—it’s smarter too. It allows the iPhone to manage key vehicle functions like air conditioning and seat settings. Car brands can even adjust the system’s colors and layouts to match their design style.

    Alongside this, Apple Music is also getting a useful update. Apple has started rolling out a playlist transfer tool that lets users bring over playlists from other music services like Spotify, YouTube Music, Tidal, and more. This feature appears to be powered by the third-party service SongShift and shows up in the Apple Music app under settings > account > transfer music. It’s rolling out slowly, so not everyone may see it yet.

    Together, these updates show Apple’s push to make both driving and music experiences smoother and more connected. Whether you’re behind the wheel or switching music apps, Apple is trying to make it all feel simple and seamless.

    Source/Via

  • Epic brings Fortnite back to iOS and Apple tests new Safari update

    Epic brings Fortnite back to iOS and Apple tests new Safari update

    Epic Games has once again submitted Fortnite to Apple’s iOS App Store for approval in the European Union. This move follows Apple’s previous rejection in March, where it cited rule violations. Epic has shared that the new version was updated to meet Apple’s feedback. If approved, Fortnite will soon be playable again on iPhones and iPads in Europe through the Epic Games Store app.

    This situation is unfolding under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which allows alternative app stores on iOS. Apple was fined nearly €2 billion for not following DMA rules properly. Epic has been very vocal about Apple’s restrictions and has accused the company of making the app review process difficult for competitors.

    At the same time, Apple released a new version of its Safari Technology Preview, version 219. This special version of Safari is used for testing upcoming web features. It includes updates to Web Inspector, CSS, HTML, JavaScript, and more. Anyone with a Mac can download it, including users on macOS Sonoma and Ventura.

    Together, these two stories show how both Apple and Epic are working to shape the future of apps and web browsing in Europe. While Epic pushes for more open access, Apple continues to update its tools and browsers to stay ahead. The tech landscape in the EU is changing fast, and this is only the beginning.

  • Apple shares jump after U.S. and China reach tariff deal

    Apple shares jump after U.S. and China reach tariff deal

    Apple’s stock rose sharply on Monday after reports that the U.S. and China have agreed to reduce tariffs on tech products, including smartphones. This news helped Apple’s stock hit a new record high of over $210 per share, giving the company a market value above $3.2 trillion.

    The tariff deal is expected to lower the cost of making iPhones and other Apple devices in China. Apple depends heavily on its supply chain in China, so this move may ease pressure on production costs. Investors see this as a big win for Apple’s future profits.

    Wall Street reacted quickly. Analysts believe this change could save Apple billions in the long run, especially since China is both a key market and a major manufacturing base for the company. One expert from Wedbush Securities said the deal could be a “game-changer” for Apple’s earnings in the second half of the year.

    The news also lifted other tech stocks, as many U.S. companies rely on Chinese manufacturing. Overall, the agreement between the two countries brought fresh optimism to the market and could mean fewer trade tensions ahead. This positive update comes at a time when Apple is focusing more on international markets and new products like AI-powered features in upcoming iPhones.

    Would you like a quick chart showing Apple’s recent stock growth?

  • Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple is gearing up for exciting changes in 2025, bringing fresh features to its Calendar app, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and PlayStation 5 payment systems. These updates aim to make daily tasks easier and more connected for users.

    The Calendar app might get a big boost with Apple Intelligence, thanks to Apple’s 2024 purchase of Mayday Labs, an AI-powered scheduling company. This could mean smarter ways to organize your day, like automatic task management or better Siri integration for planning.

    The upgrade is likely to appear in iOS 19, making your calendar more helpful and intuitive. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is set to launch later this year with three new features focused on connectivity. It will include 5G RedCap for faster, energy-efficient internet, plus satellite connectivity to stay in touch without an iPhone.

    These additions make the watch ideal for adventurers or anyone wanting a smoother, phone-free experience. For gamers, Apple Pay is now available on the PlayStation 5, offering a secure way to buy games and content. During checkout, you scan a code with your iPhone or iPad, then use Face ID or Touch ID to pay.

    This feature, already supported on iOS 18, is also expected to reach the PS4 soon, making purchases safer and more convenient. These updates show Apple’s focus on blending smart technology with everyday tools, from planning your schedule to enjoying games and staying connected on the go.

    Source/Via/Via

  • Apple’s next software updates: a fresh look and smarter calendar

    Apple’s next software updates: a fresh look and smarter calendar

    Apple is gearing up for big changes with its upcoming software releases, macOS 16 and iOS 19, set to be revealed at WWDC in June 2025. These updates promise a major makeover, aiming to make Apple’s devices feel more connected and user-friendly. For macOS 16, expect a bold redesign that echoes the 2020 macOS Big Sur update.

    That release brought a cleaner, more open look with spaced-out buttons and a fresh style. Some thought it hinted at touchscreen Macs, but Apple said it was just about creating a natural, airy feel. This time, macOS 16 will likely align more closely with iOS and iPadOS, using a glassy, visionOS-inspired style to unify the experience across Apple’s platforms.

    Meanwhile, iOS 19 is set to enhance the iPhone with new AI features. Apple recently bought a company specializing in calendar tools, suggesting the Calendar app could get a smart upgrade. Imagine your iPhone suggesting events or managing your schedule with Apple Intelligence, making daily planning smoother and more intuitive.

    These updates aim to refresh how we interact with Apple devices while keeping things consistent across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. However, big changes can be risky—some users might find the new designs jarring, like the iOS 7 shift years ago. Still, Apple’s focus on a cohesive, modern look and smarter apps could make these updates a hit when they roll out in fall 2025. Stay tuned for a fresh, connected Apple experience.

    Source/Via

  • iPadOS 19 Unveiled: Four awesome features to expect

    iPadOS 19 Unveiled: Four awesome features to expect

    Next month at WWDC 2025, Apple will introduce iPadOS 19, packed with updates to make your iPad experience smoother and more fun. Here’s a peek at four exciting changes coming your way.
    First up, iPadOS 19 will sport a stylish new design, borrowing a vibe from visionOS, the tech behind Apple’s Vision Pro. Think transparent menus and softer, rounded app icons for a fresh, futuristic look. Second, a Mac-like menu bar is being added to apps, making it super easy to jump between tools and settings without fuss.

    Third, multitasking gets a major boost with “Stage Manager 2.0.” This upgrade will let you juggle multiple apps effortlessly, ideal for heavy-duty projects or the foldable iPad and iPhone expected in 2026. Lastly, Apple Intelligence will power up your iPad with smarter features, like a sharper Siri and clever app tricks, to help you work and create like never before.

    These changes blend the iPad’s touch-friendly ease with laptop-level power, setting the stage for Apple’s next big devices. iPadOS 19 is all about making your day easier and more productive. Excited? Share your thoughts! Stay tuned for more Apple updates on 9to5Mac’s site or their social channels.

  • Apple should boost CarPlay for electric cars

    Apple should boost CarPlay for electric cars

    Apple’s CarPlay makes it easy to use your iPhone in the car, letting you access apps safely on the road. However, for electric vehicle (EV) owners, CarPlay falls short. Its EV routing tool, which plans trips with charging stops, only works with a small number of models, like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Porsche Taycan. This leaves most EV drivers without proper support.

    The issue is that CarPlay’s charging and battery tracking features depend on carmakers sharing live battery data, and only a few do. Meanwhile, rivals like Google’s Android Auto face similar challenges, but some automakers are creating their own EV-friendly systems. For instance, General Motors is phasing out CarPlay in its electric models to build custom software that better handles navigation and charging needs.

    To stay ahead, Apple could add features that don’t rely on carmakers, like improved charger finders or simple battery range predictions. Including more EV-focused apps, such as those for locating charging stations or optimizing routes, would also make a big difference. With CarPlay in nearly 98% of new U.S. cars, Apple has a golden chance to shine in the EV world. It just needs to move quickly to meet the rising demand for electric vehicles.

  • Apple faces Siri privacy payout and App Store legal battle

    Apple faces Siri privacy payout and App Store legal battle

    Apple is dealing with two big legal issues. First, the company agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit claiming its voice assistant, Siri, recorded private talks without permission. If you owned a Siri-enabled device like an iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024, and Siri accidentally turned on during a private conversation, you might get up to $20 per device, for up to five devices.

    You need to submit a claim by July 2, 2025, swearing the activation happened during a confidential moment. The final amount depends on how many people claim. Apple says Siri data was never used for ads and settled to avoid more court fights. Meanwhile, Apple is also in a legal tussle with Epic Games over App Store rules. Epic, the maker of Fortnite, won a court ruling saying Apple must let developers tell users about other payment options outside the App Store.

    Apple wants to pause these changes while appealing, arguing it needs time to adjust and protect users. Epic disagrees, saying Apple’s delays hurt competition. The court hasn’t decided yet, but this fight could change how apps handle payments. Both cases show Apple navigating tough legal waters. The Siri settlement offers some users a small payout, while the Epic battle could reshape the App Store’s future. For now, Apple is balancing user trust and business rules as these cases unfold.

    Source/Via

  • AirTag’s new tool for stress-free travel

    AirTag’s new tool for stress-free travel

    Summer travel is in full swing, and Apple’s AirTag has a fresh feature that’s a must-have for wanderers. If you’ve ever panicked over a lost suitcase, the iOS 18.2 update brings a handy solution called Location Sharing. This tool helps you track down missing bags by letting you share your AirTag’s whereabouts with others, like airline staff.

    Here’s the deal: in the Find My app on your iPhone, you can create a secure link showing your AirTag’s location. Lost your luggage? Send this link to the airline, and they can pinpoint your bag faster. Apple’s partnered with several airlines, including big names like United and Delta, to make this super smooth. Each airline has its own process—some take the link via their website, others through baggage support.

    To get started, open Find My, pick your misplaced AirTag, and generate the link. Share it with the airline, and they’ll see a live map of your bag’s location. The link is private, locked with encryption, and expires after seven days or when your bag’s back in your hands. You can also cancel it anytime. This feature is a travel lifesaver. It cuts the stress of lost luggage and helps airlines reunite you with your stuff quickly. Tried it yet? Share your story!