Search results for: “mi 8 Pro”

  • Apple’s iPad App Letdown: Three misses in a row

    Apple’s iPad App Letdown: Three misses in a row

    Apple has been knocking it out of the park with new iPhone apps, but when it comes to supporting the iPad, they’ve been striking out.

    First in line was the Journal app, which only came out for iPhone users when iOS 17.2 was released. Even with the update to iOS and iPadOS 18, while the iPhone app got plenty of enhancements, iPad users were left out in the cold.

    Next up was Apple Sports, which made its debut on the iPhone a year ago. It’s improved a lot since then, but there’s still no iPad version. We’re all waiting to see if an iPad app or at least a widget will show up soon.

    Then there’s Apple’s new Invites app, which lets you send out invites to any device. However, if you’re using an iPad, you won’t find a dedicated app for it yet.

    On a brighter note, the iPhone versions of Sports and Invites do work on iPads, providing some relief for iPad users.

    The lack of a Journal app for iPad is particularly frustrating because, unlike other apps, it’s built into the system. This means iPad users can’t even use the iPhone version in a workaround like Stage Manager mode.

    Many thought Apple had moved past the days of iPhone-only apps, especially after finally bringing apps like Weather and Calculator to the iPad. But these new, exciting apps are still iPhone-exclusive.

    Apple’s pitching some great new apps, but when it comes to hitting home runs with iPad versions, they might need to call in a pinch hitter.

  • Apple disagrees with EU’s Porn app approval

    Apple disagrees with EU’s Porn app approval

    Apple has made it clear that it does not support the “Hot Tub” adult app, which was launched for iPhone users in the EU through alternative app stores. In a statement to a tech news site, Apple highlighted its worries about user safety and the damage such apps might do to the trust people have in Apple’s platform.

    User Safety and Trust

    Apple expressed deep concerns about the risks posed by adult content apps to EU users, particularly to children. These apps could shake the confidence that consumers have built-in Apple’s ecosystem over the years. Apple insists it would never permit such an app in its official App Store, despite claims by the app’s distributor suggesting otherwise.

    The company is obligated by EU laws, specifically the Digital Markets Act, to permit the operation of other app marketplaces. This means apps like “Hot Tub” can be distributed through platforms like AltStore, which Apple has less control over.

    Misleading Claims

    In its promotional efforts, AltStore described “Hot Tub” as the first porn app “approved by Apple,” a statement Apple has contested. Even though Apple’s Notarization process checks third-party apps for malware and fraud, it does not regulate content. This allows for apps with content like pornography, drug references, or hate speech to be available on iPhones in the EU, content that would typically not be allowed in the App Store.

    Apple’s Notarization guidelines explicitly state that developers cannot suggest that Apple endorses any app’s quality or functionality. Thus, AltStore’s promotional claim appears to violate these rules.

    Apple’s Stance

    Apple has been vocal about its reservations regarding the EU’s regulations, warning that they could lead to the spread of undesirable content. Apple had previously voiced its concerns about this specific app back in December, but the European Commission has not intervened.

    Clarification from Epic Games

    Following Apple’s statement, Epic Games clarified that it does not distribute “Hot Tub” or similar adult apps through its platform in the EU. However, Epic did provide AltStore with a “MegaGrant” to help distribute apps like “Hot Tub” for free.

    Apple’s main message is that while it must comply with EU laws, it does not endorse or approve of all content that can now reach iPhone users through these alternative channels.

     

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  • Apple no longer allows downgrading to iOS 18.2.1

    Apple no longer allows downgrading to iOS 18.2.1

    Apple has recently stopped allowing users to install iOS 18.2.1 on their iPhones. If you’ve updated to iOS 18.3, you can’t go back to the older version anymore. This change happened because Apple released iOS 18.3 last week.

    Why Can’t You Downgrade?

    When Apple brings out a new version of iOS, they usually stop supporting the old one after about one or two weeks. Once they do this, you can’t install the older version because Apple checks with its servers to make sure only the latest software can be installed. Right now, if your iPhone can use iOS 18, you’re stuck with iOS 18.3 or whatever comes next.

    Why Does Apple Do This?

    Apple does this to make sure everyone’s iPhone is as safe and secure as possible. By keeping everyone on the newest version, they can protect users from old security risks that the new updates fix.

    What’s New in iOS 18.3?

    The latest update, iOS 18.3, comes with several new features and over 20 security fixes. One important fix was for a problem that hackers might have been using to attack some iPhones. This shows why it’s good to keep your phone’s software current.

    In summary, if you’ve moved to iOS 18.3, you’re now stuck there for better security and features. Apple makes these updates to keep your information safe, so it’s wise to stay updated even if you can’t go back.

  • Microsoft Defender VPN for Mac and iPhone to end service soon

    Microsoft Defender VPN for Mac and iPhone to end service soon

    If you’re a Mac or iPhone user with a Microsoft 365 subscription, there’s some news you should know. Microsoft has announced that the Defender VPN service will stop working at the end of February 2025. According to a support document from Microsoft, they haven’t given a clear reason, but it looks like not many people were using this feature.

    The document states, “The privacy protection (VPN) feature within Defender will no longer be available after February 28, 2025. We regularly check how our features are used and how well they work. We’ve decided to stop this feature to focus on new areas that will better meet what our customers need.” This change was first noticed by the site Windows Latest.

    For those who don’t know, Microsoft Defender VPN was not widely known because it was only available to Microsoft 365 subscribers in the United Kingdom, the United States, and some US territories. It didn’t expand to other countries.

    Although it provided some privacy protection, it wasn’t helpful for those wanting to access content from different countries, like watching videos not available in their region. This is because, unlike other VPNs like NordVPN, you couldn’t pick which server to connect to; it automatically chose one near your location.

    Source

  • Apple’s Big Spring Updates: Five exciting products to watch for

    Apple’s Big Spring Updates: Five exciting products to watch for

    We’ve had a quiet start to 2025 with Apple products, with the only big news being the launch of the Black Unity Sport Loop. But spring is just around the corner, and Apple is gearing up to release five significant new gadgets.

    New iPhone SE

    The iPhone SE is set for its most substantial update since its introduction in 2016. This new model, possibly named the iPhone 16E, will ditch the home button for a modern look like the iPhone 14. It will also be the first iPhone to use Apple’s modem instead of Qualcomm’s, and it will switch to a USB-C port. This could be a game-changer for budget iPhone users.

    New iPad

    The entry-level iPad, which hasn’t been updated in over two years, is expected to get a boost with support for Apple Intelligence. Featuring the A17 Pro chip, this update will keep the same look but enhance performance significantly.

    M4 MacBook Air

    The MacBook Air is getting a minor update with the new M4 chip. While there won’t be many changes beyond this new processor, it might come sooner than expected, possibly before spring. This could mean faster and more efficient computing for users.

    Updated iPad Air

    The iPad Air is also in line for an update, adopting the M3 chip. Alongside, there might be a new Magic Keyboard designed specifically for the iPad Air, enhancing its usability as a laptop alternative.

    Apple’s New Smart Home Display

    Apple is entering the smart home market with a new display product, tentatively called ‘HomePad’. This device will have a 7-inch screen, can be mounted on a wall or attached to speakers, and will integrate with Apple Intelligence for smarter home control.

    Wrapping Up

    Beyond these, an updated AirTag with a new ultra-wideband chip is on the horizon. However, updates for products like the Mac Studio and Mac Pro won’t arrive until mid-2025. Additionally, iOS 18.4 is expected in spring, introducing the last of the new Apple Intelligence features from WWDC24, including an improved Siri. These updates promise to make spring 2025 an exciting time for Apple fans looking for both performance and design enhancements.

  • Six Apple Products getting exciting updates in 2025

    Six Apple Products getting exciting updates in 2025

    This year is shaping up to be a big one for Apple, with several products that haven’t seen updates in years finally getting some love. Here’s what to look forward to:

    iPhone SE 4

    Last update: March 2022

    Apple’s next budget iPhone, the iPhone SE 4, is set to bring significant improvements. Expect to see the powerful A18 chip, support for Apple Intelligence, an OLED screen, Face ID, 8GB of RAM, a 48MP camera, USB-C port, and Apple’s first custom 5G modem. This model could be a game-changer when it launches in March.

    AirTag 2

    Last update: April 2021

    Four years after the original, AirTag 2 is on its way. It promises better tracking distance, an enhanced wireless chip, and privacy improvements. Look for it to hit the market mid-year.

    HomePod mini 2

    Last update: November 2020

    The HomePod mini, which has been without a hardware refresh for over four years, is gearing up for an update. While specifics are under wraps, there’s hope for Apple Intelligence support and better syncing with the new ‘HomePad’. Expect it toward the year’s end.

    AirPods Pro 3

    Last update: September 2022

    Although software updates have kept AirPods Pro fresh, a hardware update is due in September. The AirPods Pro 3 will likely feature a new look, the H3 chip, a heart rate sensor, and better noise cancellation.

    Apple Watch SE 3

    Last update: September 2022

    The budget-friendly Apple Watch SE is due for an update, possibly bringing new chips and health sensors. We might see it in spring or with the new iPhones in September.

    New Apple TV 4K

    Last update: November 2022

    Known for its irregular updates, the Apple TV 4K is finally getting a refresh. It’s expected to include a new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip and a faster processor, with a possible release in late fall.

    Conclusion

    Not all Apple products get yearly updates, but when they do, they’re significant. These updates are eagerly awaited, promising to bring new features and performance improvements to Apple’s lineup. Here’s to hoping Apple delivers on these exciting promises.

  • Discover the new iPhone 17 Air: Six exciting features coming soon

    Discover the new iPhone 17 Air: Six exciting features coming soon

    This autumn, Apple is introducing a new member to its iPhone family: the iPhone 17 Air. Instead of the usual Plus model, Apple is bringing something fresh that might even win over Pro users. Here’s what you can look forward to with the iPhone 17 Air.

    Super Slim Design

    Inspired by the incredibly thin M4 iPad Pro, the iPhone 17 Air is set to be one of the slimmest iPhones yet. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests it could be as thin as 5.5mm at its narrowest, making it a lot thinner than the current iPhone models, which are around 8.25mm for the Pro and 7.8mm for the standard and Plus versions.

    New 6.6-inch Screen

    The iPhone 17 Air will feature a middle-ground screen size of 6.6 inches, fitting just between the Pro and Pro Max models. This could be the perfect size for anyone who finds the Pro a bit small but the Pro Max a tad too large.

    Always On and Smooth Display

    For the first time, both the base iPhone 17 and the Air are expected to have an Always On display and a high refresh rate. While there’s talk about a possible 90Hz screen, the 17 Air might keep the full 120Hz ProMotion for that extra smooth feel.

    A19 Chip

    The iPhone 17 Air will run on Apple’s new A19 chip, which will also power the base iPhone 17. Although not as advanced as the A19 Pro in the Pro models, it’s still expected to handle everyday tasks, AI, and gaming with ease.

    Single 48MP Back Camera

    The 17 Air will stand out with just one rear camera, a 48MP lens, featuring a unique ‘bar’ design. This design might bring unexpected advantages, but specifics are still under wraps.

    Upgraded 24MP Front Camera

    Moving from 12MP to 24MP, the front camera on the iPhone 17 Air should offer much better selfies and video calls, narrowing the quality gap with the back cameras.

    Apple’s Own 5G Modem

    Exclusively for the iPhone 17 Air, Apple is introducing its own 5G modem. While it might not outpace Qualcomm’s current offerings in speed, Apple’s integrated approach could bring unique connectivity perks.

    The iPhone 17 Air looks set to redefine what we expect from Apple’s lineup, offering a mix of thin design, new tech, and user-friendly features. This fall’s iPhone launch is shaping up to be a highlight.

  • Exciting updates in iOS 18.4: Seven new Apple Intelligence features

    Exciting updates in iOS 18.4: Seven new Apple Intelligence features

    Apple Intelligence has been making waves since its debut in iOS 18.1, and with the upcoming iOS 18.4, there’s even more to look forward to. Here are seven key features and changes that are on the horizon.

    Siri’s New Powers: Seeing What You See

    Imagine Siri understanding what’s on your screen just like the Vision Pro does. With iOS 18.4, Siri will gain this ability, making interactions much smoother. For instance, if you see a new address in a message, you could just tell Siri to add it to your contacts, and it would happen without any extra steps.

    Siri’s Expanded App Abilities

    With the new update, Siri will be able to do lots more without needing to open apps. It can perform actions like finding and editing a photo, then moving it to a specific folder in the Files app, all through voice commands.

    Siri Knows You Better

    Siri will now have a deeper understanding of you, similar to a personal assistant. You could ask Siri to find a recipe sent by a friend, and it would search through your emails, messages, and notes to find it. It can also retrieve personal details like your passport number or check your calendar.

    Smart Notification Prioritization

    Apple Intelligence will make your notifications smarter by highlighting the most urgent ones at the top of your list. This means you’ll catch the important stuff without sifting through less relevant alerts.

    Image Playground Gets Sketchy

    The Image Playground app will finally introduce the ‘Sketch’ style option that was promised but missing in earlier versions. This adds another creative way to produce images with AI.

    Apple Intelligence in Europe

    Good news for European users; Apple Intelligence features will expand to iPhones and iPads in the EU, starting with iOS 18.4 in April.

    More Languages for AI

    Apple is set to support more languages for its AI features, including Chinese, various forms of English, French, German, and several others, making Apple Intelligence more accessible globally.

    Once iOS 18.4 rolls out, we’ll see all the promised Apple Intelligence features from last year’s WWDC become a reality. With these updates, Apple continues to push the envelope on what AI can do for you, setting the stage for even more advancements in iOS 19.

  • Video Calls from Space: Coming to Europe and the USA soon

    Video Calls from Space: Coming to Europe and the USA soon

    This year, people in Europe will be able to make video calls using satellite technology, thanks to a successful demonstration by Vodafone working together with AST SpaceMobile. The service will soon expand to the United States through AT&T, although it might take a little longer there.

    Just like the current satellite options for texting and calling, this new technology will work in places where there’s no regular phone signal.

    Apple Paved the Way with Satellite Messaging

    For many years, satellite communication was only possible with special equipment. However, smartphones have now caught up. Apple started this trend with its Emergency SOS via Satellite feature in 2022, which lets you contact emergency services from spots with no cell service. They’ve even updated it so you can send messages to your loved ones. Apple started with Globalstar but has now teamed up with SpaceX and T-Mobile to use Starlink’s satellite system.

    Voice and Internet from Orbit

    In 2023, AST SpaceMobile showed that regular phones could do more than just send messages via satellites; they could also make voice calls and use mobile data. They proved this by connecting a call from Maui, Hawaii, to Madrid, Spain, using their BlueWalker 3 satellite. They also managed to achieve a download speed of about 14 Mbps in another test.

    Satellite Video Calls Are Here

    Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile have now shown that video calls are possible too, using typical 4G/5G phones. They made history with the world’s first video call from space, connecting a call from a remote part of Wales where there’s never been mobile internet before. This was done by Vodafone’s engineer, Rowan Chesmer, who called Margherita Della Valle, showcasing the potential for internet access and messaging in areas without coverage.

    Vodafone plans to roll out this service across Europe by the end of 2026, although they haven’t shared how much it will cost yet. Meanwhile, AT&T is testing similar services in the US, but they’ll probably start after Europe. This new technology could change how we stay connected, especially in the most remote places.

  • Apple named world’s most admired company again

    Apple named world’s most admired company again

    For the 18th year in a row, Apple has been named the World’s Most Admired Company by Fortune magazine.

    Apple Logo

    The Fortune survey involves 3,380 business leaders from various sectors. They rate companies on nine different aspects such as innovation, how good they are for investors, how responsible they are towards society, and how well they attract new employees. Apple came out on top, with Microsoft and Amazon right behind, continuing their tradition of being among the best.

    This year’s 2025 rankings show that tech companies are still leading the pack. Nvidia has climbed to fourth place, a first for them, thanks to their big role in the world of artificial intelligence and making graphics processing units. Nvidia’s chips are key in the AI models created by companies like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft.

    However, it’s not just tech; other types of companies are also doing well. Berkshire Hathaway, Costco, and JPMorgan Chase are also in the top seven. New entries this year in the top 50 include ServiceNow, Taiwan Semiconductor, and Novo Nordisk. An interesting point from this year’s list is that all ten of the highest-ranked companies are from the United States, showing a strong American presence at the top for the second year running.