Search results for: “play store”

  • Apple now lets iPhone games give promo codes for in-app items

    Apple now lets iPhone games give promo codes for in-app items

    Apple has made a new change that helps both game makers and players. Now, iPhone games can give out special promo codes for in-app purchases. Before, developers could only offer promo codes for downloading the full game or for subscriptions. But now, they can give codes that unlock things like extra levels, coins, or special items inside the game.

    This update means game creators can run more creative promotions. For example, they can reward loyal players, run giveaways, or let influencers share codes with their followers. Players can use these codes to get free or discounted in-game items, making it more fun to play.

    To use a promo code, players just need to enter it in the App Store or inside the game. The new feature is available for all iOS games, but developers need to update their apps to support it. Apple hopes this change will help games reach more people and keep players interested.

    Overall, this update gives both developers and gamers more options. Game makers can attract new players and reward existing ones, while players get more chances to enjoy free or discounted content in their favorite games.

  • Apple adds refurbished iPad Air with M2 chip and previews top iOS 19 features

    Apple adds refurbished iPad Air with M2 chip and previews top iOS 19 features

    Apple has added the iPad Air with the M2 chip to its official refurbished store in the U.S. This model was first released in March 2024, and now you can save some money by getting a certified refurbished version. Prices for the 11-inch iPad Air M2 start at $509, which is $90 less than the original price. The larger 13-inch model is also available at lower prices. Refurbished devices from Apple are fully tested, cleaned, and come with a new battery, new outer shell, and a one-year warranty, just like new products.

    Along with this, Apple has shared a closer look at some of the new features coming in iOS 19, set to release this fall. One helpful update is called Smart Recap. It gives you a summary of missed messages and notifications, making it easier to catch up on what you missed while your phone was away.

    Another new feature is the ability to schedule messages to send later in the Messages app. You’ll also be able to write messages ahead of time and send them at a specific time automatically. Plus, Apple is adding better ways to use apps side-by-side with a feature called Split View, especially useful when your iPhone is connected to a larger display.

    Overall, these updates show how Apple is improving both its hardware options with discounted iPads and its software with useful iOS 19 tools to make iPhones even more helpful.

  • iPhone 17 Air leak shows lighter design and Epic wins review change against Apple

    iPhone 17 Air leak shows lighter design and Epic wins review change against Apple

    Recent reports have shed light on what we might expect from Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Air. Ross Young’s research suggests this smartwatch will be introduced in 2025 with a smaller screen size of 6.1 inches and will also be thinner and lighter than earlier versions. Preliminary specifications may hint that a new front camera will be placed in a hole, making the phone sleeker. The company is evaluating different materials to make the device slimmer and lighter, including a smaller battery.

    Although Apple is working on new iPhones, it is also being threatened by legal challenges. According to a court filing by Epic Games, Apple is not complying with the order made in the previous ruling. Epic claims that Apple is making it difficult for app makers to tell users about less expensive purchasing options, only bypassing the App Store. Currently, developers can link to payment methods outside of Apple’s app store, but it is a complex and time-consuming process that still involves handing over a portion of their sales to Apple.

    Epic is requesting the court to make sure Apple obeys the original order without any problems. It might change the way iPhone apps function and what developers pay in fees. In brief, Apple is working on plenty of new changes in the iPhone 17 Air, but there are concerns about the limited rules for apps on its app store. As both stories play out, Apple’s future could change significantly.

    Source/Via

  • Epic still waiting for Apple’s approval to bring Fortnite back to iPhone

    Epic still waiting for Apple’s approval to bring Fortnite back to iPhone

    Fortnite fans hoping to play the game on iPhones in the EU will have to keep waiting. Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, says Apple still hasn’t allowed Epic’s developer account to go live, even though Epic was hoping to relaunch Fortnite on iOS in Europe this year.

    Back in March, Apple restored Epic’s developer account after the EU passed the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which pressures big tech companies to allow fair competition. Epic planned to use this opportunity to bring its own app store and Fortnite back to Apple devices in the EU.

    But things haven’t moved forward since then. Sweeney recently shared that Apple has not approved Epic’s final app store submission. Without this approval, Epic can’t release anything—not even a test version of Fortnite or its game store. According to Sweeney, they submitted their final version weeks ago but have heard nothing.

    This delay is causing frustration at Epic. Sweeney says Apple is “stonewalling” them, meaning they’re not giving updates or moving the process along.

    Apple hasn’t commented on the situation, and it’s unclear why they’re holding back approval.

    The EU’s new rules were designed to stop these kinds of delays, so if Apple continues to block Epic, regulators might step in. For now, though, Fortnite fans in Europe will just have to stay patient.

  • 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 Watch sales drop and Epic Games costly battle with Apple

    Apple Watch sales drop and Epic Games costly battle with Apple

    Apple Watch Sales Decline

    For two years, Apple Watch sales have been falling worldwide, according to recent data. The smartwatch, once a must-have gadget, is losing ground to competitors offering similar features at lower prices. Experts suggest Apple needs to introduce exciting new features to win back customers.

    Ideas like better health tracking, such as blood pressure monitoring, or a fresh design could help. Without these changes, Apple risks falling behind in the fast-moving wearable tech market. The company’s focus on small updates hasn’t been enough to keep users hooked, and many are choosing other brands that feel more innovative or affordable.

    Epic Games’ Fight with Apple

    Meanwhile, Epic Games, the company behind Fortnite, has spent over $1 billion battling Apple’s App Store rules, says CEO Tim Sweeney. The five-year legal fight challenged Apple’s control over in-app payments, costing Epic millions in legal fees and lost iOS revenue.

    Despite the huge price tag, Sweeney believes it was worth it to push for a fairer app market. The recent court ruling forced Apple to allow developers to link to external payment options, a win for Epic. This could bring Fortnite back to iPhones and reduce Apple’s 30% fee on app purchases, benefiting developers and players alike.

    Looking Ahead

    Apple faces challenges on two fronts: reviving the Apple Watch with bold new features and navigating a shifting App Store landscape. Both situations highlight the need for Apple to adapt to stay competitive in tech and gaming markets.

  • Cool new features coming to iPhone 18 Pro

    Cool new features coming to iPhone 18 Pro

    Apple is gearing up for the iPhone 18 Pro, expected to hit shelves in 2026, and whispers about its upgrades are already making waves. Here’s a fresh take on what’s in store, based on the latest buzz. The iPhone 18 Pro could sport a cleaner look with Face ID tucked under the display, leaving only a small dot for the selfie camera.

    This would give the screen a smoother, uninterrupted vibe. The rear camera is tipped to feature a variable aperture, letting you tweak light capture for stunning shots in any environment, much like a pro camera. All models might boast 12GB of RAM, up from the iPhone 16’s 8GB, making apps run faster and handling heavy tasks like a breeze.

    Apple’s own Wi-Fi 7 chip could bring blazing-fast internet, perfect for streaming or gaming on the go. A new WMCM chip design might pack more power into a compact setup, boosting efficiency. There’s also chatter about a foldable iPhone entering the scene, with Pro versions launching in fall 2026 and a standard one in early 2027.

    Plus, a 48-megapixel telephoto lens could deliver crystal-clear zoomed photos. These changes point to a faster, smarter iPhone 18 Pro with top-notch camera skills. While still just rumors, they hint at Apple pushing the boundaries to keep its premium phone a cut above the rest.

  • Exciting new games hitting Apple Arcade soon

    Exciting new games hitting Apple Arcade soon

    Get ready for a fresh batch of fun as Apple Arcade rolls out five awesome games on May 1! These titles offer something for everyone, from silly multiplayer chaos to relaxing puzzles. Leading the pack is a wild new creation from the team behind WHAT THE GOLF? and WHAT THE CAR?. Here’s what’s coming to keep you entertained.

    The star of the show is WHAT THE CLASH?, a super fun party game perfect for playing alone or with friends. Collect quirky cards to mix and match for hilarious battles, like “gooey soccer” or “flaming darts.” It’s crafted by Triband, who always bring a big dose of humor and creativity.

    Rounding out the lineup are four other gems: LEGO Friends Heartlake Rush+, a colorful racing adventure; SUMI SUMI: Matching Puzzle+, a chill puzzle game; with My Buddy, a heartwarming pet-care sim; and Words of Wonders: Search+, a brain-teasing word hunt. The “+” means these versions are ad-free with no extra costs, unlike their App Store counterparts.

    While this month’s drop is a tad smaller, WHAT THE CLASH? is sure to steal the spotlight. Apple Arcade is $6.99 a month or part of an Apple One plan, giving you over 200 ad-free games. New users get a one-month free trial, and new Apple device owners score three months free. Jump in and enjoy the fun!

  • Apple’s new HomeOS and Apple Intelligence features highlighted in new ad

    Apple’s new HomeOS and Apple Intelligence features highlighted in new ad

    Apple is set to launch a fresh software platform called homeOS in 2025, designed to power a new smart home device named the HomePad. This device, a blend of an iPad and HomePod, aims to make Siri and Apple’s AI, known as Apple Intelligence, more useful at home.

    The HomePad will feature a screen for controlling smart home gadgets, showing widgets, and running apps like Photos, Music, and Notes. It will also have a camera for FaceTime calls and sensors to adjust its display based on how close you are.

    The homeOS platform will feel familiar to iPhone users, with a home screen full of customizable widgets. While it won’t have an App Store at first, it will come with built-in Apple apps. A cool feature is a photo slideshow mode that acts like a screensaver when you’re far away. Siri will get smarter, using Apple Intelligence to understand your personal info, like emails or texts, to help with tasks such as finding a recipe or flight details.

    Apple Intelligence will also bring new tricks to other devices in 2025, like Priority Notifications to highlight important alerts and better language support for Siri. These updates will roll out with iOS 18.4 in April. The HomePad, expected later in 2025, could be delayed as Apple fine-tunes Siri’s advanced features. This launch marks Apple’s big push into smart homes, aiming to make your home tech as seamless as your iPhone.

  • Instagram finally brings its app to iPad

    Instagram finally brings its app to iPad

    After years of waiting, Instagram has launched an official app for iPad, exciting fans who have long wanted a better way to use the platform on bigger screens. The news dropped on April 8, 2025, and it’s a big deal for users tired of the stretched-out phone version.

    The new iPad app keeps things simple and familiar. You’ll find all the usual features—like scrolling through posts, watching stories, and sending messages—now built to fit the iPad’s larger display. It’s not just a blown-up phone app anymore; Instagram tweaked it to feel right at home on tablets.

    The layout spreads out nicely, letting you see more photos and videos without squinting. For a while, iPad users had to deal with the iPhone version, which looked awkward and didn’t use the extra screen space well. People kept asking Instagram for a proper app, and now it’s here.

    The company says they listened to feedback and wanted to make something that works smoothly on iPads. You can grab the app from the App Store for free, and it works on any iPad running iPadOS 16 or later. It’s perfect for anyone who loves snapping pics, sharing moments, or just browsing their feed.

    Plus, with the bigger screen, editing photos or watching Reels feels way more fun. This move shows Instagram cares about its fans and wants to keep up with how people use tech today. It’s a win for iPad owners who’ve been hoping for a better experience. So, if you’ve got an iPad, download it and see how Instagram shines on a larger canvas!