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  • 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 plans to blend modems into its main chip by 2028

    Apple plans to blend modems into its main chip by 2028

    Apple has a big idea: it wants to combine the modem—the part that connects devices to the internet—into its main processor. This move would make its gadgets use less power and cost less to build, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

    In his Power On newsletter, Gurman predicts this change might happen by 2028 at the earliest. Interestingly, that’s also when Apple could start adding its own modem to MacBooks with cellular data, something he’s mentioned before. This time, though, he didn’t tie MacBooks into the modem talk.

    Years ago, Apple toyed with the idea of a MacBook Air that could connect to 3G networks. Back in 2008, Steve Jobs, the former CEO, nixed it because it would take up too much space. A combined chip design could fix that issue.

    Apple recently showed off its first homemade modem, called the C1, in the new iPhone 16e. Unveiled last week, this modem is the most energy-saving one ever in an iPhone. The iPhone 16e, with its 6.1-inch screen, boasts the longest battery life yet—up to 26 hours of video playback. Apple says the C1 is just the beginning.

    Gurman also revealed that Apple is already testing a C2 modem and even a C3, which could launch in 2027. By then, Apple hopes its tech will beat Qualcomm’s modems, a company it’s relied on for years. Word has it the C2 might appear in the iPhone 18 Pro next year.

    Since 2018, Apple has been crafting its own modem to ditch Qualcomm’s parts. The two companies have had a rocky past, but they’ve agreed to keep working together until March 2027. This gives Apple plenty of time to polish its own design. Moving away from Qualcomm makes sense as Apple pushes to control more of its tech and boost efficiency in its devices.

  • Apple tweaks words to steer clear of Porn app misunderstanding

    Apple tweaks words to steer clear of Porn app misunderstanding

    Apple recently made a small tweak to dodge a tricky situation that made it seem like they were okay with a porn app popping up for iPhone users in the EU through a third-party app store. This mix-up sparked some confusing news headlines, but Apple sorted it out by switching just three words in an email they send to app developers.

    The Porn App Mix-Up

    Last year, the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) forced Apple to let third-party app stores onto iPhones. Apple wasn’t thrilled about it and even made the process of using these stores a bit of a hassle to discourage people. One big worry for Apple was losing control over what kinds of apps could sneak onto the platform—like pornography, which they’ve always kept out of their own App Store.

    Apple still gets to check apps for safety before they’re allowed in these third-party stores. That’s what happened with an app called Hot Tub, designed for browsing adult content. After Apple’s safety check, the app’s developer got the green light from AltStore, a third-party store, which then claimed Apple “approved” it.

    Technically, this was sort of true. After Apple confirms an app meets security and privacy rules, they send an email saying it’s “approved” for release. But that wording caused a headache. Apple pushed back, saying they didn’t actually support the app. They explained that EU rules forced them to let it onto third-party stores like AltStore, even if those stores don’t match Apple’s strict standards for user safety.

    A Quick Word Swap

    To clear things up, Apple changed the email’s phrasing. Here’s the switch:

    • Before: “The following app has been approved for distribution”
    • Now: “The following app is now ready for distribution”

    AltStore’s Riley Testut pointed out the update, joking about what might’ve prompted it. Tech writer John Gruber called it a smart move—keeping the message clear for developers while making it obvious Apple isn’t cheering for every app that passes the safety check. With this tiny tweak, Apple dodged a big misunderstanding without missing a beat.

  • 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.

  • Find My feature now works in South Korea with iOS 18.4 Beta

    Find My feature now works in South Korea with iOS 18.4 Beta

    Back in July, people in South Korea started a petition begging Apple to turn on the Find My feature in their country. Many thought it wasn’t available because of strict government rules, but the petition said that wasn’t true. Apple promised to bring Find My to South Korea by spring 2025, and they’re starting to make it happen now.

    Aaron Perris shared on X that the Find My network is up and running in South Korea with the iOS 18.4 beta 1 release. This is great news for folks there—they can now track down their missing gadgets. Plus, it might stop thieves in their tracks since the activation lock, which depends on Find My, was a big point in the petition.

    We’re expecting the full iOS 18.4 update to drop for everyone in April. It comes with some cool extras like Priority Notifications, a fresh Food section in the Apple News app, and more. Want the full scoop? Check out our guide on what’s new in iOS 18.4 beta. If you’re in South Korea and don’t mind trying the beta version, you can finally use this feature that’s been missing from your iPhone for so long.

  • Apple plans to add Google Gemini to Apple Intelligence

    Apple plans to add Google Gemini to Apple Intelligence

    Right now, Apple Intelligence lets Siri pass some questions to ChatGPT for smarter, more detailed answers than Siri can give on its own. During WWDC24, Apple’s software leader, Craig Federighi, hinted in a chat that they’re open to teaming up with other AI systems, like Google Gemini. A fresh leak suggests this teamwork might happen soon.

    A recent update tied to the iOS 18.4 beta shows “Google” and “OpenAI” listed as outside options for Apple Intelligence. This clue comes from code explorer Aaron Perris, who shared it onX. This doesn’t promise Gemini will pop up in iOS 18.4—especially since Apple Intelligence has faced some slowdowns already—but it strongly hints it’s coming eventually. It could land in a later iOS 18 tweak or roll out with iOS 19. Word is, Apple’s also cooking up its own chatty Siri upgrade for iOS 19.

    Google just dropped some shiny new Gemini 2.0 models, including one built for better reasoning. These might soon show up on iPhones, at least if you’ve got an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 or 16 Pro, or the upcoming iPhone 16e. In short, Apple’s gearing up to mix Google’s brainpower into its tech, giving users more ways to get sharp answers straight from their phones. Stay tuned—big things could be on the way!

  • 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.

  • What’s fresh in iOS 18.4 Beta 1

    What’s fresh in iOS 18.4 Beta 1

    Apple just dropped the first iOS 18.4 beta for developers to try out. It doesn’t have all the Apple Intelligence goodies we were expecting, but there are still some cool updates worth checking out.

    Priority Notifications

    There’s a new feature called Priority Notifications that puts your most urgent alerts at the top. It’s off by default, but you can switch it on in Settings > Notifications > Prioritize Notifications. Once it’s active, Apple Intelligence will highlight key notifications on your Lock Screen.

    Image Playground Gets Sketchy

    Image Playground now has a Sketch style, adding to Animation and Illustration. It used to be just for Image Wand, but now you can pick it as a third option. Switch styles by hitting the “+” button in the app. Plus, the “Winter Holidays” theme is gone, replaced with a fresh “Spring” vibe.

    More Languages for Apple Intelligence

    New languages include French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and simplified Chinese. There’s also local English for Singapore and India.

    Apple News+ Food Section

    For Apple News+ users, iOS 18.4 brings a Food section packed with recipes, restaurant stories, healthy eating tips, and kitchen must-haves. Big names like Allrecipes, Bon Appétit, and Serious Eats contribute content. You’ll find a Recipe Catalog that updates often, a cook mode with step-by-step help, and an option to save recipes offline.

    Chill with Ambient Music

    A new Ambient Music feature lets you add soothing sounds to Control Center. Choose from Sleep, Chill, Productivity, or Wellbeing. Tap one, and it plays random tunes from that vibe. Skip tracks or see what’s playing via Dynamic Island or the Now Playing widget.

    Mail Gets Organized on iPad

    iPadOS 18.4 upgrades the Mail app with categories. Important emails land in the Primary section, while others sort into deals, newsletters, orders, or social updates. This was already on iPhone with iOS 18.2.

    Privacy Dots Stand Out

    Those tiny dots showing camera or microphone use? They’re now on the left of the menu bar with a bold black background, making them easier to spot.

    Siri’s New Accents

    Siri gets two fresh Australian voices to mix things up.

    Genmoji Gets Clearer

    The Genmoji icon on the Emoji keyboard now says “Genmoji” instead of just a colorful smiley, so it’s simpler to find and use.

  • Updated Mail app with simple sorting hits Mac and iPad

    Updated Mail app with simple sorting hits Mac and iPad

    Apple rolled out the first iPadOS 18.4 and macOS Sequoia 15.4 betas today, bringing the refreshed Mail app to iPad and Mac users for developers to try.

    What’s New in the Mail App on Mac

    The updated Mail app now sorts your emails automatically into neat groups. The most urgent messages land in the Primary category. Other emails get split into sections like shopping orders, newsletters, special offers, and social updates.

    There’s a handy “Transactions” area that gathers receipts, order details, and delivery updates. This makes it super simple to track purchases and shipping info. Then, there’s an “Updates” section for things like newsletters, doctor appointment reminders, and subscription messages. Plus, a “Promotions” category holds emails about sales and deals.

    When you open the app after the update, this grouped view is what you’ll see first. But if you prefer the old-school style, just tap the top-right corner to switch to a basic list of all emails in order by date—no categories. If your device supports Apple Intelligence, the Primary inbox will highlight key emails so you can focus on what matters most. Time-sensitive messages from Transactions, Updates, or Promotions will also pop up in Primary.

    Apple already added this email-sorting feature to the iPhone with iOS 18.2. Now, it’s available on Mac and iPad too, making it easier to stay on top of your inbox across all your devices.