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  • Music Streaming Services: How much do they pay artists?

    Music Streaming Services: How much do they pay artists?

    Not all music streaming platforms give the same amount of money to musicians, and a recent study shows just how different these payments can be. For example, Apple Music pays artists way more than Spotify does.

    The study, done by Duetti, looks at how much artists got paid in 2024 by different platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube.

    One key thing they checked was how much money artists make for every 1,000 times their song is played. Here’s what they found for 2024:

    • Amazon paid $8.80 for 1,000 streams.
    • Apple Music paid $6.20.
    • YouTube paid $4.80.
    • Spotify only paid $3.00.

    This shows that Apple Music paid artists more than twice what Spotify did. One reason for Spotify’s lower payments is its free version which has lots of ads but doesn’t make much money for artists.

    While Spotify has ads like YouTube, YouTube still manages to pay artists more. Apple Music, on the other hand, only has paid subscriptions, which lets them give more money to artists.

    Another concerning point from the report is that even though Spotify has been increasing its prices, the money artists get from each stream has been going down. This is a bit troubling, especially since Spotify has been putting more effort into podcasts and audiobooks, possibly at the cost of music artists’ earnings.

  • Apple eyes new AI search options for Safari as Google deal faces scrutiny

    Apple eyes new AI search options for Safari as Google deal faces scrutiny

    Apple is exploring fresh ways to power search in its Safari browser, leaning toward AI-driven solutions, as its long-term partnership with Google comes under pressure. During a U.S. Justice Department case against Google, Eddy Cue, Apple’s services chief, revealed the company’s interest in teaming up with AI innovators like OpenAI, Anthropic, or Perplexity to boost Safari’s search features.

    The Google agreement, worth $20 billion yearly, sets Google as Safari’s default search engine. But with the lawsuit raising concerns about this deal, Apple is rethinking its strategy. The potential loss of this revenue stream is significant, yet the rise of AI-based search tools offers a promising alternative. These tools could make searches smarter and more intuitive for users.

    Rather than creating its search engine, Apple is cautiously testing AI enhancements, such as summarizing webpages in Safari. These efforts are part of broader plans for iOS 19, aiming to keep Safari ahead in a fast-changing tech world. The company wants to ensure its browser stays user-friendly and cutting-edge.

    As the legal case unfolds, Apple is preparing for a future where AI could reshape online searches. While no partnerships are confirmed, Apple’s focus on AI signals exciting changes ahead for Safari and how people explore the web.

  • New tricks for your iPhone with iOS 18.5

    New tricks for your iPhone with iOS 18.5

    Apple’s iOS 18.5 update is dropping soon, packed with handy features to spruce up your iPhone. Let’s dive into what’s new and how it’ll make your phone even better. To start, there’s a lively Pride 2025 wallpaper with bold, colorful patterns that dance across your screen when you lock or unlock your device. It’s a fun way to show support for inclusivity.

    For iPhone 13 owners, you’ll love the new satellite connectivity option, letting you tap into carrier services even in far-off places with no signal. Screen Time is getting a tweak that lets you silence notifications from chosen apps when you’re in a focus mode, keeping distractions at bay.

    Over in the Apple TV app, a new “Live” section makes it super easy to jump into live sports or events without digging through menus. Lastly, the Mail app now lets you hit snooze on emails, pushing them out of sight until you’re ready to deal with them. It’s a small change that keeps your inbox tidy.

    Set to roll out next week after thorough testing, iOS 18.5 isn’t a massive overhaul but adds thoughtful upgrades to your iPhone’s daily grind. Get excited to try these fresh features and enjoy a smoother, more colorful phone experience!

  • Apple’s latest software updates near release

    Apple’s latest software updates near release

    Apple is wrapping up its newest software updates, with iOS 18.5, iPadOS 18.5, macOS 15.5, tvOS 18.5, and visionOS 2.5 now in the release candidate (RC) stage. This means they’re almost ready for everyone to use, likely launching to the public soon. These updates focus on making devices run smoother and fixing bugs, with a few small improvements.

    For iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5, there’s a new feature that lets older iPhones and iPads use satellite services, like T-Mobile’s Starlink partnership, for texting in areas without cell coverage. This was previously only available on newer models, so it’s a big win for older devices. The Mail app also gets tweaks, making it easier to turn off features like contact photos or email categories.

    macOS 15.5 is getting ready for its public debut, with the RC version available for developers. It’s all about stability, ensuring your Mac runs reliably. Similarly, tvOS 18.5 and visionOS 2.5 are in the RC phase, focusing on performance for Apple TV and Vision Pro. No major new features are expected here, but they’ll make your devices work better.

    Apple’s updates are tested thoroughly to avoid issues, and these RC versions are the final step before the public rollout. If you’re in Apple’s beta program, you can try them now, but they’re mostly about polishing things up. Expect these updates to hit your devices soon, bringing small but helpful changes.

  • Apple Music’s new vibe borrows from TikTok’s energy

    Apple Music’s new vibe borrows from TikTok’s energy

    Apple Music is gearing up for a bold refresh, drawing inspiration from TikTok’s lively, trend-setting style. The platform plans to spotlight short, catchy video snippets and content crafted by users, making exploring new tunes feel more interactive and fun.

    This shift shows Apple’s keen awareness of how TikTok’s quick, viral clips spark music crazes and shape what’s popular. Behind the scenes, Apple Music’s leadership is also getting a reboot. Rachel Newman, a seasoned pro, teams up with Ole Obermann, who brings TikTok music know-how, to steer the division.

    They work under Oliver Schusser, who manages Apple’s wider services like Apple TV+ and Beats. This reshuffle aims to free up Schusser’s plate and inject fresh, creative ideas into the mix. The makeover is Apple’s way of keeping pace in the fast-moving music streaming scene, where social platforms often dictate the next big hit.

    By weaving in TikTok’s snappy, visual flair, Apple Music hopes to pull in younger fans who love hands-on, shareable experiences. Recent steps, like adding TikTok sharing in iOS 18.1, hint at Apple’s goal to blend music with social buzz. Though specifics on new features are still hush-hush, the vision is bold: transform Apple Music into a hub where fans don’t just play songs but dive into a lively world of videos and community-driven content. As listening habits shift, Apple’s banking on this spirited, connected approach to keep fans coming back.

  • Apple’s latest earnings and challenges ahead

    Apple’s latest earnings and challenges ahead

    Apple recently shared its financial results for the second quarter of 2025, showing strong growth. The company earned $95.4 billion in revenue, a 5% increase from last year, and a profit of $24.8 billion, up 8%. Services, like streaming and subscriptions, hit a record high, growing 12%.

    iPhone sales also helped, especially in markets where Apple Intelligence is available, boosting performance. New products, like the iPhone 16e and advanced Macs and iPads, added to the success. Apple’s board approved $100 billion for stock buybacks and raised its dividend to $0.26 per share.

    However, challenges loom. CEO Tim Cook discussed tariffs, noting they had little impact this quarter due to supply chain tweaks. But for the next quarter, tariffs could add $900 million in costs if policies stay unchanged. Cook avoided commenting on price hikes, leaving consumers wondering. Apple is diversifying production, with half of U.S. iPhones now made in India and other products in Vietnam, to reduce reliance on China.

    On the legal front, Apple faces App Store changes after a court ruling favored Epic Games. The company must allow developers to link to external payment options, following a 2021 injunction. Apple disagrees with the decision, plans to appeal, and is complying for now. The outcome remains unclear, but it could affect Apple’s services business. Despite these hurdles, Apple’s focus on innovation and customer loyalty keeps its device base growing. Cook remains optimistic, hinting at exciting products ahead, like a thinner iPhone 17 Air.

    Source/Via/Via

  • Apple Watch helps Ohio man survive stroke during exercise

    Apple Watch helps Ohio man survive stroke during exercise

    In Toledo, Ohio, last summer, 50-year-old Derick Gant was pushing his limits, skipping rope in his front yard to set a new personal best. Feeling strong after surpassing his goal of a minute, the heart medication user suddenly collapsed, unable to move his left arm or leg. His Apple Watch, sensing the fall, flashed an alert asking if he needed assistance. Initially, Derick dismissed it, hoping he’d bounce back. But as his condition worsened, he used the watch to contact emergency services with a single tap.

    Ambulance crews, recorded by his doorbell camera, arrived swiftly and took him to the hospital. There, doctors diagnosed an ischemic stroke, a dangerous condition that cuts off brain oxygen and can lead to permanent harm. The stroke hit his motor cortex, causing his loss of limb movement. The Apple Watch’s quick fall detection and alert to his emergency contacts ensured help arrived fast, likely sparing him from severe consequences.

    Derick’s experience shows how vital wearable tech can be, even for healthy, active people. With tools like fall detection and instant SOS calls, the Apple Watch acts as a safety net in sudden health emergencies. Derick now encourages others to wear smartwatches, emphasizing how they can make a life-saving difference when time is critical.

  • Apple Makes Big Changes: Super thin iPhone 17 Air and leadership reshuffle

    Apple Makes Big Changes: Super thin iPhone 17 Air and leadership reshuffle

    Apple is making headlines again — this time with both new hardware and internal company changes. A recent leak shows that Apple is working on a much thinner iPhone called the iPhone 17 Air. Compared to the current iPhone 16 Pro, the iPhone 17 Air is noticeably slimmer, making it one of the thinnest iPhones ever.

    Apple is using a new internal layout, including smaller parts like the camera and battery, to help reduce thickness. The display will also have smaller borders, giving it a cleaner and more modern look. This new model is expected to launch in 2025 and might only come in one size, possibly replacing the standard iPhone 17.

    Along with product changes, Apple is also continuing to shift leadership within the company. Two important departments are getting new heads: the Apple Watch software team and the Health division. David Clark, who helped build Apple’s Health features, has now stepped down.

    Also, Kevin Lynch, who worked on both the Apple Watch and Apple’s health tools, is now focusing only on health projects. This is part of Apple’s ongoing effort to improve its product development and services by reorganizing leadership roles. These changes show that Apple is not just updating its devices but also adjusting its team to better focus on future innovation.

  • Apple quietly updates its website with a new ‘Snapshot’ page and hints at next-gen Pro Display XDR

    Apple quietly updates its website with a new ‘Snapshot’ page and hints at next-gen Pro Display XDR

    Apple has added a new “Snapshot” section to its official website, giving users a fresh way to explore Apple products and updates. This new page highlights key moments across Apple’s product lineup, including hardware, software, and services. The goal is to offer a quick overview of what’s happening in the Apple world. Right now, the page features products like the iPhone 15, Apple Vision Pro, iPad, and MacBook Pro. It also includes updates to services like iOS 17.4 and Apple Podcasts.

    At the same time, rumors are heating up about a second-generation Pro Display XDR. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is working on a new version of its high-end display, possibly coming out in 2025. It’s expected to have a more advanced panel with OLED technology, which could mean better contrast, deeper blacks, and improved overall picture quality. It may also include a dedicated chip for processing visuals.

    The current Pro Display XDR, released in 2019, has a 6K Retina display and targets creative professionals. The upcoming model could launch alongside a new Mac Pro or Mac Studio, offering a powerful setup for users who need high performance and accurate colors. While Apple hasn’t confirmed any release dates, the new Snapshot page and display rumors hint at big things coming soon.

    Source/Via

  • Millions of Apple devices using AirPlay and CarPlay are at risk of wi-fi attacks

    Millions of Apple devices using AirPlay and CarPlay are at risk of wi-fi attacks

    A major security issue has been found that could let hackers take control of millions of Apple devices using AirPlay and CarPlay, all through Wi-Fi. This flaw affects Apple’s Wireless Direct Link (AWDL) protocol, which is the base for services like AirDrop, AirPlay, and Sidecar.

    Researchers from TU Darmstadt in Germany discovered that devices using these features are open to attack when Wi-Fi is turned on, even if users aren’t actively using AirPlay or CarPlay. This means a hacker nearby could exploit the flaw and possibly access or take control of your device.

    Worryingly, this issue doesn’t just affect iPhones. It also targets iPads, Macs, Apple TVs, and even HomePods. Once a hacker breaks in, they could do things like steal data, mess with apps, or even spy on the screen or audio shared through AirPlay or CarPlay.

    What’s worse is that the attack doesn’t require the hacker to be on the same network. They only need to be within Wi-Fi range. And since the protocol runs in the background, users likely won’t know anything’s wrong.

    The researchers shared their findings with Apple in 2023. While Apple has made some security updates since then, not all risks have been fixed. Experts recommend turning off Wi-Fi when not in use and avoiding AirPlay or CarPlay in public areas to stay safe.

     

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