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  • Apple faces legal battles over App Store and smartphone rules

    Apple faces legal battles over App Store and smartphone rules

    Apple is dealing with two major lawsuits in the U.S. that could change how it runs its App Store and iPhone ecosystem. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) accused Apple of unfairly controlling the smartphone market, claiming its restrictions on third-party apps and services lock users into its system.

    Apple tried to get the case thrown out, arguing the DOJ didn’t prove it has a monopoly or harms consumers. However, Judge Julien Neals rejected Apple’s request, so the case will move forward. It may take years to resolve, but it’s a big step in challenging Apple’s tight control over its platform.

    In another case, Proton, a Swiss company known for its secure Proton Mail service, joined a class-action lawsuit against Apple. Proton claims Apple’s App Store rules, like forcing developers to use its payment system and charging up to 30% commission, break U.S. antitrust laws.

    These rules, Proton says, hurt smaller companies focused on privacy and limit competition by blocking other app stores and payment options. Proton wants the court to allow alternative app marketplaces and award damages to developers for high fees. Any money Proton gets will be donated.

    Both lawsuits highlight growing concerns about Apple’s power over its App Store and iPhone ecosystem. As these cases move forward, they could force Apple to loosen its grip, potentially giving developers and users more choices.

  • Apple explores new AI for Siri and surveys Vision Pro users

    Apple explores new AI for Siri and surveys Vision Pro users

    Apple is working on making Siri smarter by possibly teaming up with companies like OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT, or Anthropic, who make Claude. According to recent reports, Apple has been talking with these companies to use their advanced AI systems to power Siri.

    They’re testing models that work with Apple’s private cloud servers, but no final choice has been made about replacing Siri’s current setup. Tests show Anthropic’s Claude might be the best match for Siri, though talks about costs are ongoing.

    Apple is also developing its own AI for a future Siri update, expected in iOS 27 by fall 2026, while already using ChatGPT for some Siri features in iOS 18. In another move, Apple sent out surveys to Vision Pro users to get feedback on the headset’s features, accessories, and how it compares to other devices like Meta Quest 3, PlayStation VR, and smart glasses like Meta Ray-Ban.

    The survey asked about screen quality, comfort, and the usefulness of the Vision Pro iPhone app. Apple seems curious about what users think of competing products, hinting at plans to improve Vision Pro or explore new ideas like smart glasses. These steps show Apple’s push to stay competitive in AI and mixed reality, aiming to make Siri and Vision Pro better for users.

     

  • Apple releases second beta updates for visionOS 2.6, iOS 18.6, and macOS Sequoia 15.6

    Apple releases second beta updates for visionOS 2.6, iOS 18.6, and macOS Sequoia 15.6

    Apple has rolled out the second beta versions of visionOS 2.6, iOS 18.6, and macOS Sequoia 15.6 to developers for testing. These updates, released two weeks after the first betas, are available to registered developers through the Settings app on compatible devices, requiring an Apple Developer account.

    For visionOS 2.6, no major new features have been spotted yet, but the update likely focuses on fixing bugs and improving performance for the Vision Pro. Similarly, iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, designed for iPhones and iPads, haven’t revealed significant changes.

    These updates seem to prioritize stability and minor tweaks over big additions.macOS Sequoia 15.6, meant for Macs, also appears to be a smaller update. No new features were found in the first beta, and Apple is likely wrapping up work on Sequoia as it shifts focus to macOS Tahoe, expected this fall.

    There’s talk that Apple might bring its AI features, Apple Intelligence, to China, but regulatory issues could delay this beyond macOS 15.6. These betas are early builds, so developers are testing them to ensure apps work smoothly.

    Apple will likely share more details if new features emerge. Public beta versions are expected in July, with final releases set for September. For now, these updates seem to be about polishing the experience rather than introducing flashy changes.

  • Some iOS 26 features won’t be available in the EU

    Some iOS 26 features won’t be available in the EU

    Apple recently announced that iOS 26, its latest iPhone software update, will not include all planned features for users in the European Union due to regulatory challenges. The company is working to follow the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to ensure fair competition, but this has led to some features being delayed.

    One key feature affected is the “visited places” tool in Apple Maps, which tracks and saves locations users have been to. Apple says this feature, along with others, won’t be available in the EU when iOS 26 launches this fall. The company explained that the DMA’s rules create complexities that could impact user privacy and security, making it harder to roll out certain tools.

    While Apple is committed to bringing these features to EU users eventually, no specific timeline was shared. This means EU iPhone users will get a version of iOS 26 with fewer capabilities compared to other regions, at least for now.

    The decision reflects Apple’s efforts to balance innovation with compliance in the face of strict regulations. This news has sparked discussions among users, with some expressing disappointment over missing out on new features. Apple’s focus remains on delivering a smooth and secure experience, but the regulatory landscape in the EU is shaping what’s possible for iPhone users in the region.

     

  • Affordable MacBook with iPhone chip in the works

    Affordable MacBook with iPhone chip in the works

    Apple is reportedly creating a budget-friendly MacBook powered by the A18 Pro chip, the same one used in the iPhone 16 Pro, according to code findings shared by MacRumors. This would be the first Mac to use an iPhone chip instead of the usual M-series chips, which provide more power for tasks like handling large memory or supporting multiple displays.

    The new MacBook, identified as “Mac17,1” in Apple’s code, is expected to feature a 13-inch screen and come in fun colors like silver, blue, pink, and yellow. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests this MacBook could hit mass production by late 2025 or early 2026, with a possible launch in the first half of 2026.

    Apple hopes this affordable model will boost MacBook sales, aiming for it to make up 20–28% of total sales. The A18 Pro chip should offer strong performance for everyday tasks and support Apple Intelligence features, though it may have less power than M-series chips for heavy-duty work.

    This MacBook could appeal to students or casual users looking for a cheaper option. There’s also speculation it might run iPadOS instead of macOS, making it feel more like an iPad in a laptop form. Pricing and exact specs, like memory or storage, are still unclear, but this could be Apple’s answer to compete with budget laptops like Chromebooks.

  • Apple Music launches new custom playlist

    Apple Music launches new custom playlist

    To celebrate a decade of Apple Music, the company has introduced a fresh, personalized playlist called “Replay All Time.” This new feature builds on the existing Replay tool, which previously only showed users their top songs for each year they’ve been subscribed.

    Now, “Replay All Time” gathers your entire listening history into a single list of your top 100 songs, giving long-time subscribers a fun way to see their all-time favorite tracks. Unlike the yearly Replay, which updates annually, this playlist lives in the Apple Music Home tab and refreshes regularly to reflect your listening habits.

    It’s a great way for users to rediscover songs they’ve loved over the years or see how their music tastes have evolved since joining the service. Whether you’ve been with Apple Music since its launch or joined later, this playlist offers a unique, ever-updating snapshot of your musical journey.

    The “Replay All Time” playlist is easy to find and use, making it simple for everyone to enjoy their personalized music collection. It’s a thoughtful addition for Apple Music’s 10th anniversary, letting fans dive deeper into their listening history while keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

  • Apple’s Vision and Smart Glasses plans unveiled

    Apple’s Vision and Smart Glasses plans unveiled

    Apple has exciting plans for its Vision products and smart glasses, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. These plans stretch until 2028, with several new devices on the way. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s coming. In 2025, Apple will release an updated Vision Pro with a new M5 chip.

    This version won’t have major changes and isn’t considered a second-generation model. It’s expected to start production in the third quarter, with Apple aiming to ship 150,000 to 200,000 units. This device will stay a niche product, helping Apple keep its place in the market and use up extra parts.

    No new Vision or smart glasses products are planned for 2026. However, 2027 will bring Apple’s first smart glasses, similar to Meta’s Ray-Bans. These glasses will have multiple frame and temple options for a custom look. They won’t have a display but will include voice control, gesture recognition, audio playback, a camera for photos and videos, and AI to understand the environment around you.

    Looking ahead to 2028, Apple is working on a Vision Air, a lighter and cheaper version of the Vision Pro, and new XR glasses with advanced features. Kuo says five of these projects have set timelines, while two are still being finalized. Apple’s focus on smart glasses could spark the next big trend in consumer tech, blending style, AI, and practical features.

  • Apple’s new App Store rules hint at lower fees worldwide

    Apple’s new App Store rules hint at lower fees worldwide

    Apple recently updated its App Store rules in the European Union, and the changes are tricky to understand. Hidden in the details is a clue that Apple might lower its standard commission from 30% to 20% for developers everywhere. This would be the first time Apple has cut its fee for all developers, which could help ease tensions with regulators fighting its practices.

    The new EU rules are complex, making it hard to know when they apply. For example, small businesses in the App Store’s program could see their commission drop from 15% to 10%. Meanwhile, other developers in the EU might pay 20% instead of 30% for in-app purchases. This difference raises questions—why would EU developers get a better deal than others?

    Some believe Apple might soon make the 20% rate global to stay fair and competitive. These changes come as Apple faces legal battles worldwide over its App Store policies. A lower commission could rebuild trust with developers and calm regulators. However, critics like Epic Games’ CEO Tim Sweeney call the new rules unfair, saying they still hurt competition.

    The EU is reviewing whether Apple’s updates follow the Digital Markets Act. If Apple goes global with a 20% commission, it could simplify things for developers and users. For now, the company’s complex terms keep everyone guessing about its next move.

  • Apple plans affordable MacBook with iPhone chip

    Apple plans affordable MacBook with iPhone chip

    Apple’s current budget-friendly laptop is the $999 MacBook Air, but a new, even cheaper option might be on the way. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on a more affordable MacBook that could hit the market by late 2025 or early 2026.

    This new model will use the A18 Pro chip, the same one powering the iPhone 16 Pro, instead of the usual M-series chips found in other Macs. This MacBook might come in fun colors like silver, pink, and yellow, making it stand out from Apple’s typical designs.

    While it’s unclear exactly how much cheaper it will be, the price is expected to be low enough to attract a lot of buyers. Kuo predicts Apple will produce 5-7 million units in 2026, a big chunk of its laptop sales, suggesting a very competitive price.

    Even though it uses an iPhone chip, the A18 Pro is powerful enough to handle everyday tasks on a MacBook smoothly. This move could make Apple laptops more accessible to students, casual users, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance.

    While details are still scarce, this new MacBook could shake up the laptop market and bring Apple’s quality to more people. Stay tuned for updates as we learn more about this exciting release

  • Apple plans seven new head-worn devices

    Apple plans seven new head-worn devices

    Apple is developing seven new head-mounted devices, split into two groups: the Vision series and smart glasses, with the first launching in 2025, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. These devices aim to lead the next big trend in consumer tech.

    The updated Vision Pro, powered by an M5 chip, is set to start production in Q3 2025. It will keep the same specs as the current model, with Apple expecting to ship 150,000 to 200,000 units by year-end. A more affordable version, called Vision Air, is planned for production in Q3 2027.

    It will be 40% lighter than the original Vision Pro, using plastic and magnesium alloy instead of glass and titanium. It will run on a top-tier iPhone processor and have fewer sensors to cut costs. Apple is also working on smart glasses, with four models in development.

    Two are scheduled for production in 2027, and two more in 2028, though details are still unclear. One display-focused product is expected in 2028 or 2029, but its timeline remains uncertain. Kuo notes that Apple sees head-mounted devices as the future of consumer electronics, driving innovation in how we interact with technology.

    While the M5 Vision Pro is the only confirmed release for 2025, the roadmap shows Apple’s big push into this space, aiming to blend style, function, and affordability in the coming years.

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