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  • Apple’s request to join Google lawsuit denied again

    Apple’s request to join Google lawsuit denied again

    Apple is trying hard to protect its big money deal with Google as Google faces legal action for breaking antitrust rules, but the court isn’t helping. Recently, Apple asked for an urgent pause in the case to join in, but the judge said no and decided to keep the case moving forward.

    Google Logo Feature Slack

    Back in November, Apple wanted a bigger say in how the case would proceed, arguing that Google shouldn’t keep breaking the law. The court turned them down, so Apple appealed, but appeals take time. While waiting, Apple asked for the case to stop, but the judge didn’t agree.

    The court believes Apple hasn’t shown it would be badly hurt without this pause, nor has it clearly stated why it needs to be more involved or what new information it could add. The judge also feels that there’s no clear error in the first decision to keep Apple out of the lawsuit. Plus, it’s important to keep moving to stop Google from continuing these illegal actions.

    The court’s ruling pointed out that this case has been going on for over four years now, and any delay would be significant. Moreover, the court found that Google broke the law by making deals with companies like Apple to keep its monopoly in search and ad markets. Allowing Apple’s request for a pause would just let this illegal activity go on, which isn’t good for the public.

    Last year, Google was found guilty of these antitrust violations, with its deal with Apple being a key issue. Google gives Apple billions yearly to be the default search in Safari, and this was deemed illegal. The U.S. government wants to stop Google from making such deals with Apple and others. If Google can’t continue these agreements, Apple could lose billions, yet would still need to offer Google as a search option.

    Google might also face tougher penalties like selling Chrome or separating Android from services like Google Search and the Google Play Store. Apple worries that Google will focus on protecting these assets over their search deal, which is why Apple wants to intervene.

    In their filing for a pause, Apple argued, “If we can’t resolve our appeal before or during the remedies trial, we might just have to watch as the government pushes for harsh changes that could stop us from working with Google for ten years.”

    Apple is now pushing to speed up its appeal to join the lawsuit against Google, with the next phase of the case due to start in April. If they can speed things up, their appeal might be heard before then.

    Source

  • EU’s new law lets iPhones have first Adult app

    EU’s new law lets iPhones have first Adult app

    In Europe, a new law called the Digital Markets Act lets developers share iOS apps through other app stores, not just Apple’s. This means that for the first time, you can download a special adult app on your iPhone in the EU.

    The app, named Hot Tub, is available on the AltStore PAL, which is like a different app store made by developer Riley Testut. Hot Tub provides a safe and private way to watch adult videos, with no ads or tracking. It’s described as “An elegant, native porn app. Thoughtfully designed, ethically made, and free to use.” Users can look for and watch videos from places like Pornhub and Xvideos right from the app.

    Apple has strict rules against adult content in its App Store in many countries, including the U.S. and the EU. However, with the new EU law, apps like Hot Tub can exist outside of Apple’s control.

    Apple still checks these apps from other stores for harmful software, but they don’t control what kind of content is allowed. This means other types of content like hate speech or adult materials can appear in these alternative app stores.

    Phil Schiller from Apple mentioned in early 2024 that they usually try to keep certain content off the App Store or allow users to choose for themselves. But these controls don’t apply to apps in other marketplaces unless those marketplaces set their own rules.

    AltStore was among the first new app stores to appear in the EU after Apple changed its rules to follow the EU’s new law. These alternative stores have to pay a small fee for each app download, but thanks to a special grant from Epic Games, AltStore doesn’t charge users to download it anymore.

    Hot Tub might need to pay Apple a fee if it gets many downloads or makes a lot of money. It’s free to use, but there’s also a paid version. Apple’s rule from May 2024 says smaller apps don’t pay this fee for the first three years if they make less than 10 million euros annually.

    Right now, Hot Tub is in testing mode and only available in the EU. People in the U.S. can’t download it because they can’t get apps from outside Apple’s App Store.

    Source

  • Microsoft Defender VPN for Mac and iPhone to end service soon

    Microsoft Defender VPN for Mac and iPhone to end service soon

    If you’re a Mac or iPhone user with a Microsoft 365 subscription, there’s some news you should know. Microsoft has announced that the Defender VPN service will stop working at the end of February 2025. According to a support document from Microsoft, they haven’t given a clear reason, but it looks like not many people were using this feature.

    The document states, “The privacy protection (VPN) feature within Defender will no longer be available after February 28, 2025. We regularly check how our features are used and how well they work. We’ve decided to stop this feature to focus on new areas that will better meet what our customers need.” This change was first noticed by the site Windows Latest.

    For those who don’t know, Microsoft Defender VPN was not widely known because it was only available to Microsoft 365 subscribers in the United Kingdom, the United States, and some US territories. It didn’t expand to other countries.

    Although it provided some privacy protection, it wasn’t helpful for those wanting to access content from different countries, like watching videos not available in their region. This is because, unlike other VPNs like NordVPN, you couldn’t pick which server to connect to; it automatically chose one near your location.

    Source

  • Why Apple Vision Pro’s high price could be a bargain in medicine

    Why Apple Vision Pro’s high price could be a bargain in medicine

    Apple Watch is known for saving lives, but now, Apple Vision Pro is making its mark in healthcare, especially in surgery and medical training. Harry McCracken from Fast Company shares how this expensive device is becoming unexpectedly useful in medical settings.

    At UC San Diego Health, doctors use the headset to make operating rooms more efficient, reducing physical stress and enhancing work flow. Sharp HealthCare has also started a new center focused on spatial computing, and they’re hosting a big meeting where 300 experts are discussing how Vision Pro can be used in surgery, teaching, and more.

    Susan Prescott from Apple was surprised at how quickly the medical community has taken to the Vision Pro. One surprising benefit? Its high price. Prescott explains, “It’s an exciting time where we’re bringing healthcare leaders together not just to listen, but to share and inspire each other with how they’re using Vision Pro.”

    Even with its high cost, adoption in the medical field has been swift. UC San Diego Health’s surgeon, Ryan Broderick, describes how the Vision Pro helps in surgery:

    “For the best surgical view, the screen should be right in front of your face. But in many surgeries, you have to twist and turn, which can strain your neck and back over time. The Vision Pro fixes this by letting you place screens exactly where you need them.”

    The headset uses Apple’s M2 chip, like in their computers and tablets, and a special R1 chip to handle all the sensors. This setup helps prevent nausea and provides critical, real-time data during operations.

    With the Vision Pro, surgeons can see their environment while also having virtual screens positioned for comfort. Dr. Broderick’s team tested this by streaming live surgery feeds directly into the headset, improving ergonomics significantly. They’ve already done over 50 cases with promising results.

    Despite the $3,500 price tag, the value in healthcare is clear. Tommy Korn, an ophthalmologist at Sharp HealthCare, notes that typical operating room screens cost around $20,000 each. Here, Vision Pro not only offers ergonomic benefits but also seems like a cost-effective choice.

    So, while the Apple Vision Pro might seem pricey at first glance, in the medical field, it’s proving to be an investment worth considering. Check out the full story by Harry McCracken at Fast Company for more insights.

  • Six Apple Products getting exciting updates in 2025

    Six Apple Products getting exciting updates in 2025

    This year is shaping up to be a big one for Apple, with several products that haven’t seen updates in years finally getting some love. Here’s what to look forward to:

    iPhone SE 4

    Last update: March 2022

    Apple’s next budget iPhone, the iPhone SE 4, is set to bring significant improvements. Expect to see the powerful A18 chip, support for Apple Intelligence, an OLED screen, Face ID, 8GB of RAM, a 48MP camera, USB-C port, and Apple’s first custom 5G modem. This model could be a game-changer when it launches in March.

    AirTag 2

    Last update: April 2021

    Four years after the original, AirTag 2 is on its way. It promises better tracking distance, an enhanced wireless chip, and privacy improvements. Look for it to hit the market mid-year.

    HomePod mini 2

    Last update: November 2020

    The HomePod mini, which has been without a hardware refresh for over four years, is gearing up for an update. While specifics are under wraps, there’s hope for Apple Intelligence support and better syncing with the new ‘HomePad’. Expect it toward the year’s end.

    AirPods Pro 3

    Last update: September 2022

    Although software updates have kept AirPods Pro fresh, a hardware update is due in September. The AirPods Pro 3 will likely feature a new look, the H3 chip, a heart rate sensor, and better noise cancellation.

    Apple Watch SE 3

    Last update: September 2022

    The budget-friendly Apple Watch SE is due for an update, possibly bringing new chips and health sensors. We might see it in spring or with the new iPhones in September.

    New Apple TV 4K

    Last update: November 2022

    Known for its irregular updates, the Apple TV 4K is finally getting a refresh. It’s expected to include a new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip and a faster processor, with a possible release in late fall.

    Conclusion

    Not all Apple products get yearly updates, but when they do, they’re significant. These updates are eagerly awaited, promising to bring new features and performance improvements to Apple’s lineup. Here’s to hoping Apple delivers on these exciting promises.

  • Apple seeks to protect its big money deal with Google

    Apple seeks to protect its big money deal with Google

    Apple is fighting to save its huge money-making deal with Google, which is under threat because Google was found to break competition laws. Apple has asked the court dealing with Google’s legal battle with the U.S. government for some extra time, so they can argue their case before any final decisions are made.

    The U.S. Department of Justice took Google to court over unfair competition in the search market back in 2020. After a long fight, the DOJ won. A big part of this lawsuit was Google’s agreement with Apple, where Google pays billions each year to be the first choice search engine on Apple’s Safari browser. The judge ruled that this deal was against competition laws and helped Google keep its top spot in the search engine world.

    The U.S. government wants to stop Google from making such deals with Apple and other companies, which would hit Apple’s earnings hard. For instance, in 2022, Google paid Apple around $20 billion. Apple already tried to get more involved in the case as the solutions were being discussed, but the court said no because of timing issues. Apple is now appealing that decision and wants a pause while the appeal is considered.

    Apple argues that since its deal with Google is on the line, it should have the right to join the discussion, warning that without this pause, they could be seriously harmed.

    If Apple can’t join in the legal proceedings, they won’t be able to present their own evidence or arguments. If the appeal drags on until or after the trial for solutions starts, Apple might just have to watch, unable to speak or defend itself, while the government pushes for changes that directly affect Apple, like banning any business deals with Google for ten years.

    Besides stopping deals like this one, the U.S. Department of Justice also wants to go further, suggesting Google should sell its Chrome browser and separate Android from services like Google Search and the Google Play Store. Google has a lot to lose and might focus more on saving Chrome than its deal with Apple.

    When Apple first wanted a bigger say in the case, they argued that Google can’t properly look after Apple’s interests anymore because the case covers so much ground. The DOJ, predictably, doesn’t want Apple in the part of the trial where solutions are decided, which is due to start in April.

    If the court rules against Google paying Apple to be the default search on Safari, Apple would still have to offer Google Search as an option, but they wouldn’t get paid for it anymore.

    Source

  • Apple warns about noise levels during Super Bowl LIX

    Apple warns about noise levels during Super Bowl LIX

    Apple, in partnership with the University of Michigan, has shared new findings from the Apple Hearing Study, focusing on how noise levels spike during Super Bowl events. These insights come right before Super Bowl LIX, set to happen in New Orleans on February 9th.

    Using data from more than 115,000 Apple Watch users through the Noise app, the research shows that noise levels during the last four Super Bowls were 1.5 to 3 decibels higher than on typical Sundays. Although 3 decibels might seem small, this increase means the sound energy doubles, posing a risk to our hearing.

    The study found that noise was particularly loud in states hosting the Super Bowl or where teams playing were based. This suggests more people in these areas were watching the game in big, noisy groups.

    Apple also pointed out some of its tech designed to protect your ears. The Noise app on the Apple Watch can warn you when sounds around you get too loud. Plus, the AirPods Pro 2 have a feature that helps lower the noise when you’re in a loud place, protecting your hearing while you enjoy the event.

    This study reminds us to be careful with our hearing, especially during big celebrations like the Super Bowl.

     

  • 50 new and exciting iPhone features added since iOS 18

    50 new and exciting iPhone features added since iOS 18

    Since the launch of iOS 18 in September 2024, Apple has rolled out numerous updates, enhancing the iPhone experience with iOS 18.1, 18.2, and 18.3. Here’s a look at 50 features and improvements you might have missed:

    • Reset Your Control Center: If you’ve messed up your Control Center customization, iOS 18.1 lets you reset it to its original layout. Just go to Settings > Control Center and choose ‘Reset’.
    • Share AirTag Location: iOS 18.2 offers a new way to share the location of lost items with airlines or trusted friends. This feature works with AirTags and other Find My Network items, providing a link that can be viewed on any device.
    • Learn About Places: With iOS 18.2 on iPhone 16 models, you can get instant information about places by using Camera Control. Hold down the button, snap a photo, and see details like opening hours or make reservations right from your screen.
    • More Control Center Options: iOS 18.1 added new toggles for Satellite and AirDrop, giving you more control over connectivity options right from the Control Center.
    • Camera Control Activation: Now, with iOS 18.2, your iPhone’s screen needs to be on before you can use Camera Control, preventing accidental activation.
    • Add Events from Visuals: iOS 18.3 allows you to add calendar events directly from posters or flyers using Visual Intelligence on iPhone 16 models.
    • Selfie Mode: With iOS 18.1, switch to selfie mode by swiping on the Camera Control button, making selfies easier than ever.
    • Lock Focus and Exposure: iOS 18.2 introduces a way to lock focus and exposure on iPhone 16 models with a light press of the Camera Control button.
    • Share Music on TikTok: iOS 18.1 lets you share songs from Apple Music directly to TikTok, broadening your music-sharing options.
    • Identify Nature: iOS 18.3 enhances Visual Intelligence to help identify plants and animals in real-time on iPhone 16 models.
    • Full-Screen Video: The Photos app now offers a full-screen viewing mode for videos, making your memories more immersive.
    • Sleep Apnea Alerts: iOS 18.1 added sleep apnea detection for Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2, alerting you to potential issues after gathering data over time.
    • iPhone Mirroring with Hotspot: iOS 18.2 allows you to mirror your iPhone to your Mac even when using Personal Hotspot.
    • Search with Camera: Visual Intelligence in iOS 18.2 lets you search online for items by taking a picture, handy for shopping or identifying unknown objects.
    • Proofread Your Text: iOS 18.1’s Writing Tools include proofreading functions to catch and correct typos, making your writing clearer.
    • Track Downloads: With iOS 18.2, you can monitor your Safari downloads directly from the Lock Screen or Dynamic Island.
    • Rewrite Text: Change the tone of your messages with iOS 18.1’s Rewrite tool for more effective communication.
    • Safari Data Management: iOS 18.2 provides new ways to manage your browsing data, including exporting and importing.
    • Volume Control on Lock Screen: iOS 18.2 reintroduced the ability to adjust media volume directly from the Lock Screen.
    • Summarize Emails: iOS 18.1 helps manage your inbox with email summaries, letting you quickly understand long messages.

    These updates, among many others, show Apple’s commitment to continuously improving the iPhone experience, making it more intuitive, personal, and capable. Keep your iPhone updated to enjoy these enhancements!

  • Apple TV+ brings ‘Sunday Soccer Night’ to fans with MLS games

    Apple TV+ brings ‘Sunday Soccer Night’ to fans with MLS games

    Apple TV+ and Major League Soccer have launched a new initiative called ‘Sunday Soccer Night.’ This means that every Sunday during the 2025 season, fans can watch a featured MLS game for free if they’re subscribed to Apple TV+. In the U.S., this service costs $9.99 per month or $99 yearly, and it’s also part of the Apple One package deals.

    Apple TV+ is expanding its sports lineup, now including ‘Friday Night Baseball’ for MLB fans and ‘Sunday Soccer Night’ for soccer enthusiasts.

    The new MLS season begins with the ‘MLS is Back’ weekend on February 22nd and 23rd, where all 30 teams will play. ‘Sunday Soccer Night’ will highlight the best games of the week, with special shows and better production quality. The first match-up will feature San Diego FC, the newest team in the league, facing off against the current champions, LA Galaxy, on February 23 at 7 p.m. ET.

    This exciting soccer night is also included with the MLS Season Pass subscription. For the 2025 season, this pass is available for $14.99 monthly or $99 for the whole season. It gives you access to not just Sunday games but also preseason matches, every regular season game, and the playoffs. You can watch these on Apple devices, smart TVs, and other streaming platforms, or online at tv.apple.com.

    T-Mobile customers have a special treat; they can get the MLS Season Pass for free this season. They can claim this offer through the T-Life app starting February 18. Also, this season, Comcast Xfinity and DIRECTV subscribers can access the MLS Season Pass. This year is the third of a 10-year collaboration between Apple and Major League Soccer, aiming to bring more soccer action to viewers across the country.

  • Exciting new Apple gadgets coming soon

    Exciting new Apple gadgets coming soon

    The new year of 2025 is off to a great start with Apple ready to unveil some impressive gadgets in the coming months. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect:

    M4 MacBook Air

    Apple’s beloved MacBook Air is getting a boost with the M4 chip. This update is set to include:

    • 16GB of RAM as standard
    • A new nano-texture display option
    • A 12MP camera for better video calls
    • Support for two external displays when the laptop is open
    • Better battery life
    • Keeping the familiar 13-inch and 15-inch designs

    Look for this refreshed MacBook Air sometime in February or early March.

    iPhone SE 4

    The iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a must-have for many:

    • It boasts an iPhone 14-like design with an OLED screen and no home button
    • Includes Face ID with a notch
    • Runs on the powerful A18 chip
    • Supports Apple Intelligence, previously only on higher-end models
    • Comes with 8GB of RAM and a 48MP camera
    • Has a USB-C port and Apple’s first self-made 5G modem
    • Priced to be affordable, expected under $499

    This new iPhone SE is slated for a March release.

    ‘HomePad’ Smart Display

    Apple is set to mix things up with the ‘HomePad’, a smart home device:

    • It will focus on voice commands through Siri, home control, and communication
    • You can use apps like Safari and Music, but there’s no App Store
    • The screen size is about that of two iPhones side by side
    • Includes speakers, a camera for FaceTime, and a battery
    • You can mount it on walls or place it on various surfaces
    • It’s designed with security in mind, including features for video and audio intercom

    Though initially expected in March, there might be a slight delay.

    11th Generation iPad

    Apple fans can look forward to the new 11th-generation iPad:

    • It’s likely to feature a new, faster A-series chip with 8GB RAM
    • Could include new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips
    • This update aims to keep the iPad accessible and up-to-date

    M3 iPad Air

    The iPad Air is also in line for an upgrade with the M3 chip:

    • Expected to support new keyboard accessories
    • Will maintain the 11-inch and 13-inch sizes

    Apple Watch SE 3

    There’s talk of a new Apple Watch SE:

    • Could be released in the spring, possibly alongside the iPhone SE 4
    • An update from the last SE model which came out in 2022

    These product launches promise a dynamic start to 2025 for Apple, setting the stage for an exciting year with more innovations expected at WWDC and the fall launch season.

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