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Tag: iOS

  • Taylor Swift’s Apple Music protest and iOS on Nintendo Switch: Tech moments made simple

    Taylor Swift’s Apple Music protest and iOS on Nintendo Switch: Tech moments made simple

    Taylor Swift’s Stand Changed Apple Music

    Ten years ago, Taylor Swift spoke out against Apple Music’s plan not to pay artists during the users’ free trial period. She wrote an open letter saying it was unfair to musicians, especially smaller ones. Apple listened and quickly changed its policy, agreeing to pay artists even during the free trials. This moment showed how one person’s voice could push a big company to do the right thing. It also helped shape how music streaming services treat artists today.

    iOS Running on a Nintendo Switch

    In other tech news, someone managed to get Apple’s iOS operating system working on a Nintendo Switch. This unusual project was done just for fun, showing how creative and determined tech fans can be. The Switch, which usually runs its software for games, was made to run iOS through a lot of technical work. Even though it’s not practical for everyday use, it’s a cool example of what’s possible when people experiment with technology.

    Why These Stories Matter

    Both stories highlight how people—whether a famous musician or a creative tech fan—can influence big companies and technology. Taylor Swift’s actions led to better treatment for artists, while running iOS on a Switch shows the fun and possibilities in tech tinkering. These moments remind us that even big changes can start with one person’s idea or effort.

  • Epic brings Fortnite back to iOS and Apple tests new Safari update

    Epic brings Fortnite back to iOS and Apple tests new Safari update

    Epic Games has once again submitted Fortnite to Apple’s iOS App Store for approval in the European Union. This move follows Apple’s previous rejection in March, where it cited rule violations. Epic has shared that the new version was updated to meet Apple’s feedback. If approved, Fortnite will soon be playable again on iPhones and iPads in Europe through the Epic Games Store app.

    This situation is unfolding under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which allows alternative app stores on iOS. Apple was fined nearly €2 billion for not following DMA rules properly. Epic has been very vocal about Apple’s restrictions and has accused the company of making the app review process difficult for competitors.

    At the same time, Apple released a new version of its Safari Technology Preview, version 219. This special version of Safari is used for testing upcoming web features. It includes updates to Web Inspector, CSS, HTML, JavaScript, and more. Anyone with a Mac can download it, including users on macOS Sonoma and Ventura.

    Together, these two stories show how both Apple and Epic are working to shape the future of apps and web browsing in Europe. While Epic pushes for more open access, Apple continues to update its tools and browsers to stay ahead. The tech landscape in the EU is changing fast, and this is only the beginning.

  • Spotify app update allows web payments after Apple ruling

    Spotify app update allows web payments after Apple ruling

    Spotify has updated its iOS app to let users see subscription prices and buy plans directly on its website, bypassing Apple’s in-app payment system. This change comes after a U.S. court ruled that Apple must allow developers to include links to external payment options without charging fees.

    The ruling, part of a legal battle with Epic Games, found Apple in violation of a 2021 order to support fair competition. Spotify called the decision a major win for users, saying it finally lets them share clear pricing and easy payment options. The updated app, now awaiting Apple’s approval, will let users upgrade from free to premium plans, switch between plans like Individual or Family, and use various payment methods on Spotify’s website.

    Apple has agreed to update its App Store rules to follow the court’s order but plans to appeal the decision. The new guidelines allow developers like Spotify, Epic Games, and Patreon to add external payment links in their apps.

    This shift means companies no longer have to pay Apple’s 30% fee for in-app purchases, giving them more control over their revenue. For users, this could mean better deals and more flexible payment options. The change marks a big moment for app developers and could reshape how digital purchases work on iOS apps in the U.S.

    Source/Via

  • Waze on iPhone says goodbye to Google Assistant after a year of trouble

    Waze on iPhone says goodbye to Google Assistant after a year of trouble

    Waze, the popular navigation app, is making a big change for iPhone users. Starting next month, it will no longer support Google Assistant. This decision comes after a year of struggles to fix problems that started when Google Assistant was added to the iOS version of Waze in early 2024.

    The issues began when users noticed that Google Assistant wasn’t working smoothly with Waze on their iPhones. People reported glitches, like voice commands not responding or the app crashing. Despite efforts to solve these problems, the fixes didn’t work out. Now, Waze has decided to drop Google Assistant completely from its iPhone app.

    This change only affects iPhone users. If you use Waze on an Android phone, Google Assistant will still be available. For iPhone fans, Waze says you can switch to Siri instead. The app will keep supporting Siri for voice commands, so you can still get directions hands-free.

    Waze hasn’t said much about why the problems couldn’t be fixed. Some think it’s because Google, which owns Waze, wants to focus more on its own voice helper for Android. Whatever the reason, iPhone users will need to adjust starting in April 2025. If you rely on Waze to get around, don’t worry—Siri should keep things running smoothly. Just say goodbye to Google Assistant on your Waze app!

  • YouTube explains why videos look fuzzy for iPhone users and promises a solution

    YouTube explains why videos look fuzzy for iPhone users and promises a solution

    YouTube recently shared some news about a problem iPhone and iPad users have noticed—videos looking blurry or not as sharp as they should. This issue popped up after the latest iOS update, version 18.4.1, came out. People started complaining that their favorite clips didn’t look clear, even though they were set to high quality. YouTube says they’ve figured out what’s going on and are working to fix it soon.

    The company explained that the trouble comes from how the iOS update handles video playback. The new system messes with the way YouTube’s app shows videos, making them lose some crispness. It’s not about your internet speed or the video itself—it’s a tech glitch between Apple’s update and YouTube’s software. They’ve promised users that a solution is on the way, and things should get back to normal with sharp, clear visuals soon.

    For now, iPhone and iPad fans might notice this fuzziness mostly on high-definition videos, like 1080p or 4K. YouTube suggests sticking with the app since watching videos in a browser like Safari might not help much either. Some users have tried tweaking settings, but that hasn’t solved it yet. The good news? YouTube is already testing a fix, so you won’t have to wait too long.

    This isn’t the first time tech updates have caused little hiccups. When big changes roll out, apps sometimes need a moment to catch up. YouTube’s team is moving fast to smooth things out, and they’ve asked users to hang tight. If you’re seeing blurry videos, don’t worry—it’s not your device or connection.

    Just give it a bit of time, and your movie nights or quick clip sessions will look great again. Until the fix arrives, YouTube says to keep using the app as usual and watch for updates. They’re committed to making sure iOS users get the best experience, with crystal-clear videos back in no time.

  • A small fix coming to your iPhone: iOS 18.3.2

    A small fix coming to your iPhone: iOS 18.3.2

    It looks like Apple is getting ready to send out a small update for iPhones called iOS 18.3.2. We know this because people working at Apple are trying it out on their phones already. This kind of testing usually means the update will be available to everyone soon, probably in the next couple of weeks.

    What This Update Does

    This update won’t bring any big, new things to your phone. Instead, it’s designed to fix small problems and make your phone safer. Think of it as a little tune-up to keep things running smoothly.

    Why This Update Now?

    Apple is also working on a bigger update, iOS 18.4, which is still being tested. That bigger update will have some new things, like better ways to see important messages and a new section in the Apple News app for food lovers. But it’s not quite ready yet. So, iOS 18.3.2 is like a quick fix while we wait for the bigger one.

    When Will You Get It?

    We expect iOS 18.3.2 to be released sometime in March. The bigger update, iOS 18.4, should be available to everyone in early April. Just last month, Apple released another small update, iOS 18.3.1, which also fixed some bugs. So, Apple is working hard to keep our iPhones working well. This new update, while small, will help make your iPhone experience a bit better.

  • iOS game closes down due to strange purchase problem

    iOS game closes down due to strange purchase problem

    Square Enix has decided to close down the iOS version of “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles” because of a tricky bug linked to in-app buying changes.

    Game No Longer on iPhones

    “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles” is no longer on the App Store for iPhone users, as reported by The Verge.

    Here’s what Square Enix had to say:

    From January 24, 2025, we’ve noticed that players can’t use the extra content they’ve paid for in the iOS version of “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles.” This problem also affects the full version of the game, which lets you explore all the dungeons.

    This trouble comes from some new changes in how in-app purchases work. After looking into it, we found out that we can’t fix this bug completely or apply the new changes. Sadly, this means we have to stop supporting the iOS version of “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles.”

    If you’ve bought things in the game since January, you can get your money back by talking to Apple Support.

    This issue only affects the game on iPhones; you can still play it on other devices.

    Source

  • Apple updates iOS to fix bugs

    Apple updates iOS to fix bugs

    Apple has just released iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1, small but important updates to the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 systems that were first introduced last September. This update follows closely on the heels of iOS 18.3, which was released just two weeks ago.

    To install the new update, users can go to their device’s Settings, then tap General, and finally select Software Update. This process allows eligible iPhones and iPads to download the update directly over the internet. For those still using iPadOS 17, Apple has also made iPadOS 17.7.5 available.

    According to the notes provided by Apple, this update focuses on fixing bugs and enhancing security for your device. Looking ahead, iOS 18.4 is on the horizon, with expectations that it will be rolled out in April. We might see the first beta version of iOS 18.4 as early as this week.

    This update ensures that your device remains secure and functions smoothly, addressing any small issues that might have crept up in previous versions. Remember, keeping your software up to date is key to enjoying all the latest features and security enhancements Apple has to offer.

  • Why Apple avoids big iOS redesigns now

    Why Apple avoids big iOS redesigns now

    Remember when iOS updates used to bring huge changes? Think back to iOS 7. Those times seem to be fading away, and a recent app fiasco explains why.

    The Sonos App Mess as a Warning

    Sonos, if you’ve missed it, has been having a rough time. They changed their CEO after a disastrous app redesign in 2024. This new version of the Sonos app, launched in April, led to a year-long stream of customer complaints and negative publicity.

    This situation with the Sonos app is a clear lesson for why Apple might steer clear of massive iOS overhauls. If this had happened when Sonos had fewer, more tech-savvy users, perhaps the impact wouldn’t have been so severe. They could have fixed issues quickly, or users would have just adapted.

    The Risk of Overhauling iOS

    In the iPhone’s early days, Apple could manage big changes because fewer people used their devices. Now, with millions of users of all tech levels relying on iPhones, major changes are risky. Even if many like the new look, the sheer number of users means there’s bound to be significant opposition.

    Apple knows that iOS can’t stay the same forever, though. Instead of a whole system redesign, they’ve chosen to update parts of iOS one at a time. For instance, the Photos app in iOS 18 stirred up some trouble, but it was only one app, so the blowback was contained. Redesigning all of iOS at once would be a much bigger gamble.

    User Feedback and Iterative Updates

    A top comment on an article about this issue pointed out that comparing the Sonos app rebuild to an iOS redesign isn’t quite fair. Redesigning something like iOS 7 is just giving it a new look, not rebuilding it from the ground up like Sonos did. Apple’s approach would be more like painting over the existing structure, not rebuilding the house.

    For many iPhone users, the idea of another major redesign might sound daunting rather than exciting. The lesson from Sonos is clear: for companies with a huge user base, big changes can lead to big problems. Maybe we should all get used to seeing iOS evolve through smaller, less disruptive updates.

  • iOS update brings back simple math trick

    iOS update brings back simple math trick

    The latest update, iOS 18.3, has made a small but handy change to the Calculator app on your iPhone. They’ve brought back a feature where you can repeat calculations easily.

    Here’s how it works: If you do a calculation like 5 times 5 and hit equals, you get 25. Now, if you tap the equals sign again, it will do 25 times 5. Every time you press equals after that, it will keep multiplying the result by 5.

    This repeat function was available in older versions of iOS but was taken out with iOS 18. Now, with the 18.3 update, it’s back for those who missed it. It’s especially good for things like figuring out compound interest.

    Also, if you use a Mac, this feature was gone in macOS 15 too, but it’s coming back with the macOS 15.3 update. So, whether you’re on an iPhone or a Mac, you’ll find this update makes math a bit easier.