Search results for: “quick share”

  • New MacBook Air boasts huge speed boost over Intel model, but check the details

    New MacBook Air boasts huge speed boost over Intel model, but check the details

    Apple is making a bold statement about its latest MacBook Air, powered by the M4 chip. They claim it’s up to 23 times faster than the older Intel-based version. Sounds amazing, right? But there’s more to the story, so let’s break it down.

    First, Apple tested a 2025 MacBook Air with a 10-core M4 chip and 32GB of memory against a 2020 model with a 4-core Intel Core i7 and 16GB of memory. Both had top-notch 2TB storage. This means they compared the new laptop to the best Intel MacBook Air ever made, which makes sense for a fair test.

    Next, the huge 23x speed jump comes from one specific task: using a feature called Super Resolution in Pixelmator Pro, an app Apple now owns. This tool uses smart tech to make a 4.4MB image sharper and clearer. So, that impressive speed claim is tied to this one job, not everything you might do on a laptop.

    Apple’s detailed note says they ran this test in January 2025 on pre-release 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Airs with the M4 chip, comparing them to the Intel model. The results show how the new MacBook Air performs in this unique situation.

    What about everyday tasks? Apple shared more examples:

    • Crunching numbers in Excel is up to 4.7x faster than the top Intel model and 1.6x faster than the M1 MacBook Air.
    • Editing videos in iMovie is up to 8x quicker than the Intel version and 2x faster than the M1.
    • Fixing photos in Photoshop is up to 3.6x speedier than Intel and 2x faster than M1.
    • Browsing the web is up to 60% quicker than a similar Intel PC, with tougher tasks up to 2x faster.

    These numbers feel more practical for most people. While the 23x claim might sound like a stretch, it’s clear that any MacBook Air with an M1 chip or newer leaves Intel models in the dust. If you’ve been waiting to upgrade, this could be your moment. You can order the new MacBook Air now on Apple’s website, with deliveries starting March 12.

  • Affordable new Magic Keyboard unveiled for iPad Air with cool upgrades

    Affordable new Magic Keyboard unveiled for iPad Air with cool upgrades

    Apple recently launched the M3 iPad Air and iPad 11, and now it’s introduced a neat new accessory to go with them. The Magic Keyboard for iPad Air has been updated with some awesome features borrowed from the M4 iPad Pro’s version. Let’s check out what’s new!

    iPad Air’s Magic Keyboard Gets a Fresh Look

    According to Apple:

    The redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad Air makes it easier to get things done, all at a lower price. It has a bigger trackpad that’s super accurate for tricky tasks, plus a new row of 14 keys for quick controls like adjusting brightness or sound. It snaps on magnetically, and the Smart Connector instantly links it up for power and data—no Bluetooth needed. There’s also a sturdy aluminum hinge with a USB-C port for charging. Starting at just $269 for the 11-inch size and $319 for the 13-inch, this keyboard keeps its sleek floating style and comes in white. This updated Magic Keyboard for iPad Air picks up some of the best tricks from the M4 iPad Pro’s keyboard, which I adore.

    Here’s what they share:

    • A larger trackpad for easier use
    • A handy row of shortcut keys

    One small difference? The iPad Air version doesn’t have the fancy trackpad vibration feedback. It also skips the aluminum area near the trackpad. But overall, the two keyboards are pretty similar. Both come in 11-inch and 13-inch options. While it’d be cool to have just one Magic Keyboard for all iPads, the super-slim iPad Pro probably needs its special fit.

    Pricing and Which iPads Work with It

    The iPad Air’s Magic Keyboard is cheaper since it skips a couple of extras:

    • 11-inch: $269 (compared to $299 for iPad Pro’s)
    • 13-inch: $319 (compared to $349 for iPad Pro’s)

    It works with these iPads:

    • iPad Air 11-inch (M3, M2, 5th, and 4th gen)
    • iPad Air 13-inch (M3, M2)

    You can grab it now from Apple’s online store, with delivery by Wednesday, March 12.

  • Apple rolls out new test updates for Vision Pro, Apple TV, Watch, Mac, and iPhone

    Apple rolls out new test updates for Vision Pro, Apple TV, Watch, Mac, and iPhone

    Apple has just shared the second test versions (betas) of new software updates with developers. These updates include visionOS 2.4 for Vision Pro, tvOS 18.4 for Apple TV, watchOS 11.4 for Apple Watch, macOS Sequoia 15.4 for Mac, and iOS 18.4 for iPhone. This comes two weeks after the first test versions were released. Developers can grab these updates through the Settings app on each device if they’re signed up with Apple.

    The Vision Pro’s visionOS 2.4 update stands out because it adds Apple Intelligence features for the first time. These include tools for writing, creating custom emojis, making memory videos, editing images, sorting notifications, and connecting with ChatGPT. There’s also a new Spatial Gallery app showing off cool 3D videos, photos, and panoramas from artists and creators.

    Plus, a Vision Pro app for iPhone lets users manage their headset, find apps, and add stuff to a watch list. With iOS 18.4, your iPhone can set up a Guest Mode for Vision Pro, letting others try it easily while you control what they see. These updates will launch fully in early April.

    For Mac users, macOS Sequoia 15.4 brings a smarter Mail app that sorts emails into categories like deals, news, and important messages. Apple News+ fans get a new food section with recipes and restaurant stories, while Photos gains memory video options. Apple Intelligence also adds support for more languages. This update will roll out in early April, too.

    On the iPhone side, iOS 18.4 beta now works on iPhone 12 models and the new iPhone 16e after fixing a glitch that caused some devices to freeze. It also brings Visual Intelligence to iPhone 15 Pro models—a feature that uses the camera to explain objects or places around you.

    New emojis like tired eyes, a shovel, and a fingerprint are included too, along with quick Apple Intelligence shortcuts in Control Center. These updates show Apple’s focus on making devices smarter and easier to use. Full releases are planned for early April, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the changes soon!

  • Tim Cook hints at exciting Apple reveal this week: ‘Something Fresh Is Coming’

    Tim Cook hints at exciting Apple reveal this week: ‘Something Fresh Is Coming’

    Today, Apple’s boss, Tim Cook, shared a fun update on social media. He posted a quick video on X with the words, “There’s something in the air,” teasing a new product drop this week.

    A New MacBook Air Is on the Way

    This sneaky hint points to a fresh MacBook Air announcement soon. Word is, it’ll run on a shiny new M4 chip and keep the same 13-inch and 15-inch sizes as the current version.

    The M4 chip is set to bring some cool upgrades. Right now, the MacBook Air tops out at 24GB of memory, but the new one might jump to 32 GB. It’s also expected to have faster performance, two extra CPU cores, and a sharper 12MP Center Stage camera.

    Plus, the M4 MacBook Air will handle external screens better. The M3 version can run two extra displays, but only if the laptop’s lid is shut. The new model will let you use two external screens and the built-in display at the same time—similar to the basic M4 MacBook Pro.

    Could an iPad Air Join the Party?

    Apple might also unveil a new iPad Air this spring. Bloomberg says the MacBook Air update is up first, but Mark Gurman hinted today that a double reveal—iPad Air and MacBook Air—could happen. This makes sense since iPad Air stock is running low.

    Keep an eye on 9to5Mac for all the juicy details about Apple’s big news this week. Fun fact: the “something in the air” line isn’t new! Apple used it way back in 2008 when they launched the very first MacBook Air. Nostalgia, anyone?

  • Why Apple’s smart home gear needs to fix this big issue

    Why Apple’s smart home gear needs to fix this big issue

    We’ve been using smart home gadgets for a long time—over ten years. I wasn’t around for the super early stuff like X.10, but I got into HomeKit as soon as it arrived in my part of the world. Still, a recent hassle with something as basic as swapping out a dead light bulb showed me how much work is left before regular folks will embrace this tech.

    A few days ago, one of my Philips Hue bulbs stopped working. It was pretty old—maybe ten years—and had been moved between lamps a few times, so I wasn’t shocked it gave out. No big deal, I figured. I’d grab a new one, pop it in, and be back in action fast. The bulb showed up. I opened the Home app, picked the room, hit the “+” button, and chose “Add Accessory.” A window popped up asking me to scan a code.

    I sort of remembered scanning a barcode last time, but now it wanted a QR code. I aimed my phone at the tiny QR code on the bulb. The app tried hard, flashing little white boxes all over the screen, but nothing worked. I got super close—still no luck. I pulled back—nothing.

    The bulb came in a twin-pack with a quick-start guide, but it only had one QR code. I tried scanning that. Same problem. At this point, I sighed, dug out the Hue app, plugged the bulb into the lamp, and let that app find it before adding it to Home. It worked, but it hit me: I’ve never had a smooth, simple setup with smart home stuff. It’s always a struggle—like I need to bribe the tech gods to make it cooperate.

    This is the mess Apple’s HomeKit was supposed to fix but hasn’t. If Apple wants everyday people to jump into smart homes, it’s got to sort this out. They know it’s an issue, too. Years ago, a patent showed they’re thinking about devices that set themselves up—you’d just say “yes” to finish it. Imagine cameras using Apple’s smarts to map your house, spot your couch or stove, name the rooms, and hook up your gadgets automatically.

    Picture this: You plug a new bulb into your living room lamp. The system goes, “Oh, this is in the living room lamp that used to be ‘Living Room Table Lamp.’ I’ll name it that and add it to your setups.”

    Or if it’s a new lamp, it might say, “This looks like a dining room floor lamp—sound good? Want it in your other scenes?” Apple could start with its gear, but they should also share this idea with the Matter standard folks. They’ve done nice things like that before, like with MagSafe and Qi2. If they pull this off, swapping a smart bulb could finally be as easy as screwing in a regular one.

  • Apple and Indonesia agree to allow iPhone 16 sales again

    Apple and Indonesia agree to allow iPhone 16 sales again

    Apple and Indonesia have worked out a deal to end a five-month ban on selling the iPhone 16 in the country, according to insiders who shared the news with Bloomberg. The disagreement started in October when Indonesia blocked Apple’s newest iPhone because the company didn’t follow rules about making products locally. Now, that fight is over, and iPhones are coming back!

    As part of the deal, Apple promises to spend $1 billion in Indonesia—a huge jump from earlier offers of $10 million and $100 million, which the government turned down. They’ll sign an agreement soon, possibly this week, and the Industry Ministry will quickly approve permits so iPhone 16 sales can start again.

    Apple’s not just handing over money, though. They’ll also train Indonesians in tech skills like research and software design, helping locals create their own products. This was a big ask from Indonesia, which wanted Apple to set up research centers in the country.

    The plan includes building a factory on Batam island to make AirTags, those little trackers Apple sells. A company called Luxshare Precision Industry will run it, and it could handle 20% of all AirTags made worldwide. Plus, another factory in Bandung, a few hours from Jakarta, will churn out different accessories. Apple will also fund tech schools to teach students things like coding.

    Still, don’t expect iPhones to be built in Indonesia anytime soon—Apple’s keeping that part of its business elsewhere for now. This deal is a win for Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, who pushed for the $1 billion offer. Last month, the Industry Ministry surprised everyone by keeping the ban, hoping for a better deal—and it worked!

    Indonesia’s tough stance brought in big money and jobs, supporting their goal to grow local industries, not just be a place to sell stuff. For Apple, this opens the door to Indonesia’s 278 million people, many of them young and tech-loving. With sales slowing in China, this market could be a goldmine, even if Apple isn’t a top phone brand there yet.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • All iPhone 17 models to get Apple’s own Wi-Fi 7 Chip

    All iPhone 17 models to get Apple’s own Wi-Fi 7 Chip

    Good news for iPhone fans! This week, Apple expert Ming-Chi Kuo shared that all four iPhone 17 models will come with a brand-new Wi-Fi chip made by Apple. While he didn’t say exactly which Wi-Fi version it will use, it’s very likely to be Wi-Fi 7.

    Another analyst, Jeff Pu, who keeps an eye on companies linked to Apple, also mentioned this in a report for GF Securities earlier this month. He agrees that every iPhone 17 model will have this Apple-made Wi-Fi 7 chip.

    The iPhone 16 series already works with Wi-Fi 7, so this isn’t a huge shock. What’s exciting, though, is that Apple is creating its own chip for it. Recently, Apple introduced its custom C1 modem in the iPhone 16e for better phone signal, and now it’s set to launch its own Wi-Fi chip in the iPhone 17 later this year. By making its own parts, Apple wants to depend less on other companies, like Qualcomm for modems and Broadcom for Wi-Fi chips, and maybe stop using them altogether one day.

    Wi-Fi 7 is super fast and reliable. It uses three bands—2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz—at the same time when paired with the right router. This means quicker internet, less delay, and a stronger connection. With Wi-Fi 7, speeds can hit over 40 Gbps, which is four times faster than Wi-Fi 6E, as long as your device can handle it. Apple is expected to show off the iPhone 17 lineup in September. With these upgrades, it looks like the next iPhones will bring even better tech to your hands!

  • Apple testing new C2 modem for upcoming iPhones, says insider

    Apple testing new C2 modem for upcoming iPhones, says insider

    Apple is working on a new C2 modem for its future iPhones, according to a trusted source. This insider, known for reliable leaks, shared the news recently.

    iPhone Technology

    The source, posting from a private X account, revealed that the C2 modem carries the code C4020 inside Apple. This suggests the modem is already in development. While no extra details were shared, the insider has a solid history of accurate predictions. They’ve asked us not to link their private account in this story.

    Apple has said before that it began designing new iPhone parts years before they hit the market. So, it’s no shock that a C2 modem is in the works. This next version is expected to bring quicker, more dependable 5G connections. Plus, it might use even less power than the current one.

    Apple claims the C1 modem, found in the iPhone 16e, is the most energy-saving modem they’ve made so far. It helps that phone achieve the best battery life ever for a 6.1-inch iPhone—better than even the pricier iPhone 16.

    Speed tests for the C1 modem are still pending. However, many believe Apple’s first modem won’t match the pace of Qualcomm’s newest Snapdragon X75, which powers other iPhones. In a chat with Apple’s chip boss, Johny Srouji, he called the C1 modem just the “beginning.” That hints the C2 modem will take things to the next level. The news shows Apple keeps pushing to improve its tech, aiming for faster and longer-lasting iPhones in the years ahead.