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  • Celebrate super bowl LIX with Kendrick Lamar workouts on Fitness+

    Celebrate super bowl LIX with Kendrick Lamar workouts on Fitness+

    Apple recently shared that Kendrick Lamar will headline the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime show on February 6th. Following his impressive win of five more Grammys, bringing his total to 22, Apple has decided to celebrate by adding several new Kendrick Lamar-themed workouts to Fitness+.

    Fitness+ and Kendrick Lamar

    I’ve been using Fitness+ for a couple of years now. It all started in early 2021 when I wanted to get back into shape. I began with simple 5-minute workouts, aiming for one each day. Over time, I was able to do longer sessions and explore different types of exercises like walking, running, strength training, and yoga. Fitness+ offers a wide range of workouts and instructors, making it easy to find something that suits you.

    Apple then started creating workout sessions focused on specific artists. Instead of a mix of songs, you get to work out to the tracks of one artist. My favorite has been the 30-minute run with Scott, featuring The Weeknd’s music, which is just amazing. Now, they’ve done the same with Kendrick Lamar! Here’s what you can expect:

    • 20-minute Pilates with Darryl
    • 20-minute Strength with Kim
    • 30-minute Yoga with Jonelle
    • 30-minute Cycling with Kym
    • 30-minute Kickboxing with Jamie-ray

    I’m looking forward to trying out the strength workout with Kim, although I would have loved a running session with Scott too.

    Pricing & Availability

    To access these special workouts, you need to be a Fitness+ subscriber. Currently, there’s a one-month free trial available, perfect for February to try out these new workouts. After the trial, the subscription costs $9.99 per month. Alternatively, you can opt for the Apple One Premier plan, which includes Fitness+ along with other services. Here’s the pricing for that: This is a fantastic way to enjoy your fitness journey with the backdrop of Kendrick Lamar’s music, enhancing your workout experience with his dynamic beats.

  • 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’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.

  • Is there really a call for the iPod’s Return?

    Is there really a call for the iPod’s Return?

    Sometimes, I come across posts where people reminisce about the days when iPods were all the rage. I have to admit, the iPod was my introduction to the Apple world. But now, years after its discontinuation, I’m not convinced that people genuinely want the iPod back, despite their claims. Here’s my take on why.

    Apple officially ended the iPod era in 2022 with the discontinuation of the iPod touch, declaring that “music lives on.” However, the iPod had already started fading away much earlier, particularly in 2017 when the last of the iPod nano and shuffle were no more.

    Now, with the iPod gone, there’s a natural nostalgia, and some folks argue for its revival. While I get the sentiment, I think the need for an iPod doesn’t hold up in today’s world.

    A Look Back at the iPod’s Journey

    The original iPod came out in 2001, a time when computers were big and phones weren’t smart. The idea of having a device that could hold “a thousand songs in your pocket” was revolutionary. I remember the thrill of using an iPod for the first time.

    As technology advanced, Apple introduced various iPod models, including the tiny nano and shuffle. These devices were hugely popular, making up 40% of Apple’s revenue in 2006. But the landscape was changing, and Apple knew it.

    Smartphones were getting smarter. When Steve Jobs unveiled the iPhone in 2007, he mentioned it would be the best iPod yet, combining music and phone functionalities. He was right; the iPhone made separate music players less necessary.

    Do We Miss the iPod?

    I used to carry both an iPhone and an iPod because early iPhones didn’t have much storage. But as iPhones improved and music streaming became the norm, the need for a dedicated music device dwindled.

    iPod sales hit their peak in 2008 with nearly 60 million units sold, but they started declining from 2009, especially after the iPhone’s introduction. By 2014, when Apple last reported iPod numbers separately, sales had dropped to just 14 million units.

    Why the iPod Might Not Make a Comeback

    Some argue that Apple could make money by bringing back the iPod. Yet, I believe Apple knows better than to expect significant sales from a relaunched iPod. The iPhone mini’s short-lived tenure shows that even when consumers claim to want something, sales might tell a different story.

    Sure, there might be an initial rush to buy an iPod for nostalgia, but long-term demand? Doubtful.

    The Legacy of the iPod

    I keep my old iPod nano on my desk, not just as a reminder of good times but also to understand why we’ve moved on. In our current tech environment, we prefer devices that do it all.

    Apple has essentially continued the iPod’s legacy through devices like the iPhone, iPad, HomePod, and even the Apple Watch, which, in many ways, is like a modern iPod nano. You can listen to music on it independently of your phone. Even with these options, though, I find myself never leaving home without my iPhone.

    So, do people want the iPod back? Probably not. The spirit of the iPod lives on, just in a different, more integrated form.

  • 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.

  • Fun new golf game coming to Apple Arcade

    Fun new golf game coming to Apple Arcade

    Apple is getting ready to add another exciting game to Apple Arcade on February 6th. The game is called “PGA TOUR Golf Pro,” and it’s perfect for anyone who loves golf or enjoyed playing video games as a kid. Here’s what you can look forward to:

    What’s in Store

    Famous Golf Courses

    You’ll get to play on some of the world’s most famous golf courses in this game. Imagine walking through:

    • Pebble Beach Golf Links
    • The Links at Spanish Bay
    • Spyglass Hill Golf Course
    • Firestone Country Club
    • Bay Hill Club and Lodge
    • Harbour Town Golf Links
    • Latrobe Country Club

    Since this game is part of Apple Arcade, it will keep getting new updates, which means more courses will be added over time.

    Play Against Others

    The game lets you go head-to-head with other players or your friends in real time. No more waiting around for your turn; matches will be quick and exciting.

    Tournaments for Everyone

    There are daily and multi-day tournaments where you can climb leaderboards, win rewards, and improve your golfer’s skills. You’ll earn money and coins in the game, which you can use to buy better equipment and unlock new modes.

    Extras to Know

    • The game supports controllers for a better gaming experience.
    • It works on iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS.
    • The download size is about 2.6GB.

    My Thoughts

    I’m really looking forward to playing this game. The best part is that it’s included in Apple Arcade, so no extra cost or annoying in-app purchases. If you’re not already subscribed to Apple Arcade, you can start with a free one-month trial to check out this game and more. It’s a great way to enjoy high-quality games without breaking the bank.

  • Apple Calendar app gets better with iOS 18.3

    Apple Calendar app gets better with iOS 18.3

    Apple’s Calendar app has been around forever on iPhones but hasn’t changed much over the years. However, recent updates have started to make it more useful. With iOS 18.3, there’s now another cool feature that makes using Apple’s own app even more appealing.

    Big Changes in iOS 18 for Calendar

    Apple hasn’t done much with its Calendar app for a long time, which is strange because there are so many other good calendar apps out there like Google Calendar and Fantastical. But with iOS 18, Apple finally made some changes that are quite noticeable, even if they’re not huge.

    One of the best new features is that now you can manage your reminders right in the Calendar app. You can add, change, or look at your reminders without needing to switch apps. It’s a nice touch, though it would be better if you could choose which reminder lists show up in Calendar.

    Also, iOS 18 brought a new look to the app with better text and layout, plus a new way to see your month’s events all at once.

    A New Feature in iOS 18.3 for Calendar

    If you have an iPhone 16 with Camera Control, iOS 18.3 gives you a handy tool. By holding down on the Camera Control, you unlock a feature called visual intelligence, which uses AI to understand what your camera is pointed at.

    This new update lets you do something pretty neat: if you see a flyer or poster with a date on it, you can point your camera at it, and your iPhone will ask if you want to add that event to your Calendar. It’s an easy way to keep your digital calendar up to date with what’s going on around you.

    The catch is, this feature only works with Apple’s Calendar app because you can’t set another app as the default for this purpose. This small but smart update gives you one more reason to use Apple’s Calendar instead of looking elsewhere.

  • Old Apple Watches can’t get new software update

    Old Apple Watches can’t get new software update

    The latest watchOS 11.3 update has accidentally messed up updates for some older Apple Watches, according to what people are saying on social media.

    If you have an Apple Watch Series 4, Series 5, or the first Apple Watch SE, you might run into a problem. These models can’t move to the new watchOS 11, and now, there’s a glitch that stops them from getting the last big update for watchOS 10, called watchOS 10.6.1.

    If your Apple Watch wasn’t on watchOS 10.6.1 before the new updates came out, you won’t be able to install it now. So, if you’re using one of these older watches with an older software version, you’re stuck. Also, some of these watches won’t connect to your iPhone if they’re on an older version of watchOS 10.

    This problem only affects the older models that can’t go beyond watchOS 10, specifically those not already updated to 10.6.1 from last August. Apple is expected to sort this out soon, so keep an eye out for a fix.

  • What’s new in iOS 18.3: Apple’s latest update details

    What’s new in iOS 18.3: Apple’s latest update details

    Apple has just released iOS 18.3 for everyone to download. We’ve already covered the new features, but here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new according to Apple’s official notes:

    Visual Intelligence with Camera Control (For all iPhone 16 models):

    • Add Events to Calendar: Now you can add an event to your Calendar just by snapping a picture of a poster or flyer.
    • Identify Plants and Animals: Your camera can now help you learn about nature by identifying different plants and animals.

    Notification Summaries (For iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max):

    • Manage Summaries Easily: You can now control your notification summary settings right from the lock screen.
    • New Look for Summaries: Notifications that are summarized now show up in italics and with a special icon, making them easy to spot.
    • Temporary Hold on Some Apps: Summaries for News and Entertainment apps are paused for now, but you can choose to get them back when they’re ready.

    Other Updates and Fixes:

    • Calculator: If you press equals again, it will repeat your last calculation, making quick math easier.
    • Siri: No more issues with the keyboard disappearing when you start typing a command.
    • Apple Music: Fixed a problem where music would keep playing even after you close the app.

    This update aims to make your iPhone experience smoother and more intuitive. Whether you’re organizing your schedule or just exploring the outdoors, iOS 18.3 has something to make daily tasks a bit easier.

  • New small HomePod coming soon after long wait

    New small HomePod coming soon after long wait

    It’s been a while since we’ve seen a new model of the tiny HomePod. Launched with the iPhone 12 back in November 2020, fans have been waiting for over four years for a refresh. Good news is, it looks like the wait is almost over with a new version expected to hit the shelves by the end of this year.

    homepod mini thumb feature
    According to recent reports from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, Apple is gearing up to introduce the updated HomePod mini sometime at the end of 2025. This new model will come with Apple’s own special Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, which supports the newer Wi-Fi 6E standard. This is a step up from the Wi-Fi 4 that the current model uses, promising better and faster connections for enjoying music or using Siri.

    Though specifics are still under wraps, there’s talk that the new HomePod mini might include a more advanced “S” processor, better sound, fresh color choices, and an updated Ultra Wideband chip for quicker handoffs between devices. The current version uses the S5 chip from the 2019 Apple Watch Series 5.

    Alongside this, Apple is also rumored to be working on a new smart home hub. This device could have a display from 6 to 7 inches, set up either on a wall or on a stand with its own speaker, somewhat like the HomePod mini.

    However, while this new hub will support Apple’s smart tech, the upcoming HomePod mini won’t. For more insights on the HomePod mini, check out our detailed overview.

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