Search results for: “watch 5”

  • UK watchdog points finger at Apple for limiting browser choices

    UK watchdog points finger at Apple for limiting browser choices

    The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) shared its final thoughts on Wednesday about the mobile browser market in the country. The group says Apple’s rules are the main reason why competition and new ideas are being held back.

    The CMA’s team found that Apple forces all browsers on iPhones and iPads to use its WebKit engine. This stops other browsers from adding special features or running better, even if they work well on other systems. It’s a big roadblock for companies trying to stand out.

    The report also highlights other Apple habits that cause trouble. For example, Safari gets special perks on iOS that other browsers don’t. Apple also limits how browsing works inside apps and makes Safari the go-to browser pre-installed on every iPhone.

    Google got some attention, too, for putting Chrome on Android phones from the start. But the CMA said Apple’s limits hurt competition more. They also pointed out a big money deal where Google pays Apple billions each year to stay the default search engine on iPhones. This setup makes it less likely for them to compete.

    Since the CMA’s early report last November, both companies have made some changes. Apple’s December update, for instance, made it a bit easier for users to pick a different browser. The CMA says these steps help a little but don’t fix everything.

    To solve the bigger problems, the CMA suggests ideas like letting other browser engines work on iOS, adding a screen during setup to pick a browser (like in the EU), and putting limits on the Google-Apple search deal. These aren’t rules yet—the CMA is still checking if Apple and Google should get a “strategic market status” label under a new UK law. That decision, due later this year, could let the CMA set tougher rules and fines up to 10% of the companies’ yearly earnings.

    The report also wrapped up a look at cloud gaming. After Apple tweaked its App Store rules, the CMA decided no more action was needed there. This comes as regulators in places like the European Union and the United States also dig into mobile browser fairness.

  • Apple Watch avoids import ban after winning legal fight against AliveCor

    Apple Watch avoids import ban after winning legal fight against AliveCor

    Apple recently won a big legal victory against AliveCor, a company that sued it in 2021. A federal appeals court agreed with a decision to cancel three patents AliveCor said Apple broke with its Apple Watch. This means the court also threw out a ruling from the International Trade Commission (ITC) that could have stopped Apple Watches from being brought into the U.S.

    In a message to MacRumors, Apple thanked the court and said it would keep working on new health tools for the Apple Watch. “We’re grateful to the Federal Circuit for their thoughtful review. Our teams have spent years creating top-notch health, wellness, and safety features that help people, and we’re excited to keep going,” Apple shared.

    The trouble started when AliveCor took Apple to court, claiming Apple misused its heart rate and ECG tech ideas. At first, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) said Apple was in the wrong. But after Apple asked the USPTO’s Patent Trial and Appeal Board to take another look, the board decided those patents weren’t valid, hurting AliveCor’s case.

    Even so, the ITC had suggested banning some Apple Watch sales, which Apple fought since the patents were no longer valid. While both sides appealed, the ban was paused. Now, the appeals court has backed the decision to cancel the patents, so no import ban will happen in this case.

    AliveCor told MacRumors they’re upset with the ruling and feel the court ignored key details the ITC found convincing. “This won’t stop our business or our drive to keep creating for our millions of customers,” they said. They argue this fight is about protecting small companies and future ideas from big players like Apple. AliveCor plans to keep exploring legal steps to prove their patents are valid and that Apple crossed a line.

    Last year, AliveCor lost another lawsuit against Apple about unfair competition, and they’re appealing that too. Meanwhile, Apple’s facing a separate challenge with Masimo over blood oxygen tech, where an import ban still affects U.S. Apple Watch sales. For now, Apple has turned off that feature in watches sold here and is working to fix it.

  • 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!

  • How the Apple Watch helps NHL referees

    How the Apple Watch helps NHL referees

    The Apple Watch is making a big difference for referees in NHL hockey games. A special app called NHL Watch Comms was created just for NHL officials who work on the ice. This app will get its first outdoor test at tomorrow’s Stadium Series game in Ohio.

    The NHL announced this exciting update in a blog post recently. They said:

    For the first time in an outdoor match, referees will use the NHL Watch Comms App on their Apple Watches. This app, built by Presidio, sends live updates during the game to help officials stay on top of everything happening. Referees will feel small taps on their wrists to alert them about important moments, like how much time is left on the game clock, penalty timers, and even the jersey numbers of players sitting in the penalty box.

    This handy tool has been tested and improved over the past few seasons at indoor rinks. Now, it’s ready for its outdoor debut this Saturday. That’s when the Columbus Blue Jackets take on the Detroit Red Wings at Ohio Stadium, a famous football spot tied to The Ohio State University. Hockey games are loud and fast, which makes it tricky for referees to talk to each other. An outdoor game adds even more challenges, like wind or weather. That’s where the Apple Watch steps in to help.

    The app uses those wrist taps to keep referees in sync with the game clock—kind of like how fans might follow a live sports update on their own Apple Watches. But for refs, it’s all about doing their job better. Pretty neat, right?

    Here’s a peek at the NHL Watch Comms app, designed by Presidio for the NHL referees:

    This simple yet smart tool shows how tech can make a tough job a little easier, even in the middle of a thrilling hockey game.

  • Apple Watch “Green” claims face new lawsuit

    Apple Watch “Green” claims face new lawsuit

    Apple has a big plan to make all its products eco-friendly and carbon-neutral by 2030. However, a new lawsuit says the company’s first “green” product—the Apple Watch—isn’t as environmentally friendly as promised. Here’s what’s going on with this legal challenge.

    Buyers Say Apple Tricked Them with False Green Promises

    According to Jonathan Stempel at Reuters, some Apple Watch owners are upset. They’ve filed a lawsuit claiming that Apple’s promise of a “carbon neutral” watch isn’t true. The case, brought to a federal court in San Jose, California, involves seven people who bought the Apple Watch Series 9, SE, and Ultra 2. These customers say Apple’s green labels convinced them to buy the watches—or pay more than they would have if they’d known the real story.

    Apple rolled out these watches in September 2023, saying they were carbon neutral. The company explained it cut emissions and bought carbon offsets to balance things out. But the buyers disagree, pointing to two projects Apple used to claim its eco-friendly status:

    • Kenya’s Chyulu Hills Project
    • China’s Guinan Project

    The lawsuit argues these projects don’t help the environment as much as Apple says. The buyers claim the carbon cuts from these efforts would’ve happened anyway, even without Apple’s involvement. Because of this, they say Apple’s “carbon neutral” label is misleading and not honest.

    What the Lawsuit Wants

    The people suing are asking for money to cover their losses. They also want a court order to stop Apple from calling its products “carbon neutral” in ads or marketing. Since launching those first “green” Apple Watches in 2023, Apple has added more eco-friendly products, like the M4 Mac mini (its first carbon neutral Mac) and the Apple Watch Series 10 lineup. But this lawsuit could challenge how truthful those green claims are. For now, it’s a waiting game to see how the court rules and what it means for Apple’s big environmental goals.

  • What’s happening with WWDC 2025? here’s the scoop

    What’s happening with WWDC 2025? here’s the scoop

    Apple fans, get ready—one of the biggest events of the year is coming soon! WWDC happens every June, and it’s when Apple shows off what’s new for its software, like iOS, watchOS, and macOS. In 2025, we’ll see iOS 19, watchOS 12, macOS 16, and more.

    When Will Apple Share WWDC 2025 Plans?

    Apple usually tells us about WWDC in March. Looking back, here’s when they’ve done it before:

    • 2017: February 16
    • 2018: March 13
    • 2019: March 14
    • 2020: March 13
    • 2021: March 30
    • 2022: April 5
    • 2023: March 29
    • 2024: March 26

    Since the timing has been pretty steady lately, I’d guess WWDC 2025 will be announced in late March.

    When Is WWDC 2025 Happening?

    WWDC usually takes place in early June. Here are some past dates:

    • 2017: June 5-9
    • 2018: June 4-8
    • 2019: June 3-7
    • 2020: June 22-26
    • 2021: June 7-11
    • 2022: June 6-10
    • 2023: June 5-9
    • 2024: June 10-14

    One thing to note: Apple’s been slow with some iOS 18 features from last year. Big Siri upgrades might not come until May or June 2025 with iOS 18.5. Could that push WWDC a bit later? It’s possible!

    What’s Coming at WWDC 2025?

    This year, Apple Intelligence will steal the show. Reports say iOS 19 will bring a smarter Siri that acts more human, powered by fancy tech like ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini. There’s also talk that iOS 19 might borrow some cool design ideas from visionOS, like a major update to the Camera app. Some iOS 18 features got delayed to spring 2026, so WWDC 2025 might tease a bunch of iOS 19 goodies that won’t arrive right away. Want more? Check our iOS 19 guide! Apple will also reveal:

    • iPadOS 19
    • visionOS 3
    • tvOS 19
    • macOS 16
    • watchOS 12

    Any New Gear?

    Hardware’s a maybe. The M4 MacBook Air could drop before WWDC, but the M4 Mac Studio and Mac Pro might show up at the event. Stay tuned!

  • Apple rolls out first test versions of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4

    Apple rolls out first test versions of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4

    Apple has just released the first public test versions of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4, watchOS 11.4, and tvOS 15.4. These updates let everyday testers try out fresh features before they officially launch. This comes shortly after Apple shared the same updates with app developers.

    What’s New for iPhone, iPad, and Mac

    Anyone signed up for Apple’s public testing program can grab these updates from the Settings app on their devices. The latest software brings some handy additions. For instance, Priority Notifications, powered by Apple Intelligence, puts your most urgent alerts at the top. There’s also a fun Sketch option in Image Playground for creating cool designs.

    Apple News+ fans will enjoy a new Food section packed with recipes, tasty stories, and healthy eating advice. Plus, a relaxing Ambient Music feature is now available right from the Control Center.

    Special Features Coming in iOS 18.4

    The iOS 18.4 update includes a Vision Pro app for owners of the headset. This app makes it simple to find and download new apps, games, and shows straight from your iPhone. It also lets you control Vision Pro’s Guest Mode from your iPhone or iPad, so friends can easily try out the headset.

    Updates for iPad and Mac

    The iPad and Mac updates bring Mail Categorization, a tool that sorts your emails neatly. Until now, this was only available on the iPhone.

    Want to Know More?

    These test versions give a sneak peek at what’s coming. For all the details on the new features, check out our full iOS 18.4 beta rundown.

    With these updates, Apple is making its devices smarter and more fun to use. If you’re a tester, dive in and see what’s new!

  • Apple unveils $500 Billion plan to boost U.S. jobs and growth

    Apple unveils $500 Billion plan to boost U.S. jobs and growth

    Apple recently shared exciting news about pouring $500 billion into the United States over the next four years. This massive investment will bring 20,000 new jobs and grow the company’s work in manufacturing and research, as reported by Bloomberg. The announcement follows a meeting between Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, and President Donald Trump.

    The company has big plans, including building a new server-making plant in Houston. This 250,000-square-foot facility, set to open next year, will team up with Foxconn to create servers for Apple’s Private Cloud computing system. Apple is also launching a supplier training center in Michigan to prepare the next wave of American manufacturers. Plus, they’re expanding data centers in states like Arizona, Oregon, Iowa, Nevada, and North Carolina. Chip-making for some Apple Watch and iPad models has already kicked off at TSMC’s Arizona site.

    The 20,000 new jobs will focus on research, chip design, and artificial intelligence. This follows Apple’s earlier push, which added 20,000 research roles in the past five years. In Detroit, Apple will open a special academy to help smaller businesses learn manufacturing skills. The company is also boosting its U.S. manufacturing fund to $10 billion.

    “We believe in America’s bright future and are thrilled to add $500 billion to support it,” Cook said. “We’ll keep partnering with people and businesses nationwide to shape an amazing new story for American innovation.”

    This news might be timed cleverly, as Trump has talked about adding a 10% tax on imports from China. In his first term, Cook convinced Trump to skip tariffs on iPhones, warning they’d help rivals like Samsung instead.

    Apple’s bold move shows its confidence in America and could spark more growth and jobs ahead. Note: Since this topic touches on political and social themes, the discussion is in our Political News forum. Everyone can read it, but only members with 100+ posts can comment.

  • Special Apple TV patches for all 30 MLS teams in 2025

    Special Apple TV patches for all 30 MLS teams in 2025

    The 30th season of Major League Soccer kicks off this weekend, with every team playing matches on both Saturday and Sunday.

    New Apple TV Jersey Patches

    To mark this special milestone, Apple has introduced unique Apple TV patches for each of the 30 MLS clubs. These patches will be displayed on the left sleeve of every team’s jersey throughout the season. Each patch is designed to reflect the unique logo, colors, and identity of each club.

    Here’s an example of what the new patch looks like for Inter Miami CF:

    Tech expert Jacob Krol from TechRadar gave us more insights into these patches. He also interviewed Emeka Ofodile, who leads Apple’s sports marketing globally. Previously, MLS jerseys featured a simple black or white Apple TV logo. But for 2025, each team gets its special design.

    Apple and MLS Partnership

    2025 is the third year of a decade-long collaboration between Apple and MLS. Fans can watch all the games by subscribing to MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app. In the U.S., this service costs $14.99 monthly or $99 for the entire season. Apple TV+ subscribers enjoy a discount, paying $12.99 monthly or $79 for the season.

    A new highlight this year is that Apple TV+ subscribers can watch one MLS game every Sunday night without needing an MLS Season Pass subscription. The first game of this series will feature San Diego FC, the newest team, playing against the current champions, LA Galaxy, at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday.

    Apple TV App Now on Android

    In other news, last week saw the Apple TV app becoming available on Android phones, including access to the MLS Season Pass.

    This blend of tech and sports continues to bring fans closer to the action in exciting new ways.

    Source

  • Apple launches new study on health with iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods

    Apple launches new study on health with iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods

    Apple has just started a new health study that you can join using the Apple Research app. If you’re in the U.S. and old enough, you can sign up by agreeing to the study’s terms.

    The Apple Health Study

    This study wants to see how gadgets like the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods can help improve our physical and mental health, as well as our overall well-being. It’s going to look at how different parts of health are connected. For example, it will check if your mental state affects your heart rate or how your sleep might change how much you exercise.

    This project is the biggest health study Apple has done so far. It will check how tech affects lots of health areas like how active we are, aging, heart health, blood flow, thinking, hearing, women’s health, mental health, how our body uses food, how we move, brain health, breathing, and sleep.

    Building on Past Studies

    This new study follows on from other Apple studies like the one on women’s health, hearing, and heart and movement. Apple is working with Brigham and Women’s Hospital, which is connected to Harvard Medical School, to run this study. The Apple Research app, where you can join the study, is available on the App Store for iPhone and Apple Watch. The app got an update today to include this new health study.

    Source