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The most significant change to the iPhone this year is due to an EU mandate rather than Apple's innovation. Adopting USB-C is a welcome move, but it's far from the innovations of the past.
Another year, another iPhone, with Apple claiming huge improvements making it the best one yet. With the iPhone 15, there are noticeable enhancements for those who upgrade annually.
The regular and plus-sized handsets have a faster processor and improved camera, replacing their notches with the dynamic island from last year's pro phones. This year's pro phones feature a lighter titanium body and an even more powerful processor.
However, Apple changing the charging port is less common. The iPhone 15 swaps lightning for USB-C, offering numerous benefits. You can charge iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and AirPods with the same cable; plug in external storage devices; and enjoy faster file transfer speeds on pro models.
The convenience of using one cable for various devices is a great perk. However, Apple's adoption of USB-C is due to European regulators rather than innovation.
USB-C is arguably the most meaningful change to the iPhone for most users. A survey suggests over 60% of iPhone owners would be influenced to buy an upgrade because of USB-C, and 44% of Android owners might switch.
The fact that this new feature has been forced upon Apple by politicians reveals much about modern smartphones where iteration dominates innovation. Major leaps forward are now rarer, with rivals Samsung and Google struggling to make foldable smartphones mainstream.
For technophiles, an annual phone upgrade remains attractive. But for everyone else, a new phone is likely borne out of necessity rather than excitement – fittingly exemplified by the iPhone 15's most notable update.
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Apple may withdraw FaceTime and iMessage from the UK rather than compromise their security features, if new government proposals are enacted. These proposals involve updating the 2016 Investigatory Powers Act, potentially obliging tech companies to seek home office approval for new security features before they can be released to customers.
Apple has consistently opposed this Act since its inception in 2015 and is now actively resisting it. The company has submitted a nine-page document detailing its objections during government consultations on the proposed amendments. Apple's primary argument is that it's unreasonable to demand clearance from the UK before launching a global security feature and unfair to dilute security for one country but not others.
Running different versions of services in various countries isn't something Apple favours. If these changes are implemented by the government, Apple may choose to withdraw its services entirely.
For this outcome to become probable, two events must occur: significant backlash against these rules and removal of existing review processes regarding encryption disablement. Under current regulations, while addressing national security or child protection issues, a company can be asked by the government to disable encryption; however, appeals can delay action until resolution.
The proposed update aims at eliminating such delays - once notified; tech firms would have no choice but immediately disable their security measures.
While Apple asserts that it won't hesitate in pulling out if such modifications take place, users needn't worry just yet as neither FaceTime nor iMessage will disappear overnight. As more stringent regulations get imposed on tech firms by the UK Government, resistance grows with companies like Apple insisting they cannot compromise on essential elements like customer data security.
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The recently launched 15-inch MacBook Air has received great reviews, but according to a new report from Digitimes, sources in the supply chain are claiming that sales have been lower than expected, possibly up to 50% below predictions.
As a result, there may be some scaling back of production, although it’s not clear if this has begun or is still being considered. Some resellers, including possibly Apple itself, are calling for production of the 15-inch MacBook Air to cease.
While Digitimes has a strong track record for its supply chain sources, its conclusions about Apple’s plans have been less reliable in the past.
The 15-inch MacBook Air’s key feature is its larger screen, which was previously only available on much more expensive MacBook Pro models.
It’s worth noting that the iPhone 14 range also introduced a new standard model with a larger screen.
While it’s uncertain whether Digitimes is correct about the sales figures, a disappointing performance for the 15-inch MacBook Air would be reminiscent of the reportedly unpopular iPhone 14 Plus, although it seems like Apple is going to persist with this strategy. There doesn’t seem to be a plan to return to a Mini format any time soon.
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A group of more than 1,500 developers in the UK has recently filed a class action lawsuit against Apple, claiming that the App Store fee is excessive and that it stems from the company’s app distribution monopoly.
Apple charges developers a commission of up to 30% on transactions made on its platform, which has been a topic of discussion among governments and developers worldwide. The group of 1,566 app developers in the UK believes that Apple’s charges are unfair and constitute abusive pricing, harming both app developers and buyers.
“Apple’s charges to app developers are excessive, and only possible due to its monopoly on the distribution of apps onto iPhones and iPads,” Sean Ennis, a professor at the Centre for Competition Policy at the University of East Anglia and a former economist at the OECD, said in a statement. “The charges are unfair in their own right, and constitute abusive pricing. They harm app developers and also app buyers.”
However, Apple has previously stated that 85% of developers on the App Store do not pay a commission and that it helps European developers access markets and customers in 175 countries through the App Store.
Additionally, the Small Business Program ensures that developers earning less than $1 million a year are only charged a 15% fee, which increases to 30% once they cross the $1 million threshold.
While there have been disagreements between companies, such as Facebook, and Apple over the 30% fee, Apple has made changes to address some of the issues raised in the past. For example, the $100 developer fee is no longer required, and there are now more granular prices for app purchases.
This is evidence that Apple is not exempt from the sway of higher courts. However, a class action lawsuit doesn't always mean rules will change.
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When Apple launched the iPhone and iPad, developers quickly created millions of apps. This led to massive successes for companies like Airbnb and Snap. However, other platforms such as Apple Watch and TV haven't enjoyed similar popularity with their App Stores largely ignored by big names like Twitter, Meta, and Uber.
Apple's own data reveals this disparity - its watch and TV stores have less than 1 million monthly active users in Europe compared to about 130 million for the iPhone, iPad, and Mac stores.
So what does this mean for the upcoming Vision Pro app store? Will it follow the success of iOS or struggle like its counterparts on Apple Watch and TV? According to Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, the answer is likely somewhere in between. High product costs may deter developers from creating Vision Pro apps due to a smaller user base. Furthermore, lack of hand controllers could pose an additional challenge.
However, converting current apps into visionOS should be relatively straightforward which may boost the success of Vision Pro’s app store compared to those on Apple Watch and TV.
On release, Vision Pro will offer three types of apps: unaltered iPad/iPhone apps that run without any extra work; converted iPad apps optimised for mixed-reality experience; entirely new visionOS built specifically for virtual/augmented reality taking full advantage of high-resolution displays & eye-hand controls.
Most developers will likely allow their existing software to run unmodified on Vision Pro given there is no additional work required - potentially generating more revenue. Despite this potential influx however, consumers who paid around $4k (including tax & accessories) might expect heavily modified or completely rewritten applications suited to new interface – posing a possible hurdle for ecosystem development.
Additionally if we consider that during initial years only about 500k units are sold annually (compared with combined sales figure of 250m units/year across iPhone/iPad/Mac), it suggests a significantly smaller addressable market which could discourage developer investment further.
Concerns over limited VR controller support also add up making many established VR developers cautious about building an app solely dedicated towards the Vision Pro platform.
In contrast though, Gurman believe that despite a slow start & challenges ahead,Vision Pro presents long-term opportunities particularly because they cater for customers who aren't hesitant in spending money – meaning higher price tags can be expected ranging anywhere from $20-$250 depending upon the category/type.
Also noteworthy is fact that unlike previous launches where significant issues were reported initially, Vision Pro seems promising right off bat, with major players committing towards platform including Disney+, Microsoft, and Zoom. The only notable exception being Netflix who currently has no plans developing a native application, although its iPad version would still remain accessible via headset.
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Apple Insider is carry a story about rumours suggesting that Apple is developing a large all-screen folding MacBook Pro. However, the current state of foldable display technology may potentially delay its launch.
In early 2022, it was speculated that Apple was creating a touchscreen device with a 20-inch foldable display, thought to be either a MacBook or an iPad.
By the end of that year, expectations shifted towards the development of a MacBook Pro featuring a roughly 20.5-inch foldable screen. If plans proceeded smoothly, this device could have launched as soon as 2026.
However, in early 2023 rumours suggested that Apple had accelerated its timeline for releasing its first foldable MacBook Pro and now aimed for a release sometime in 2025. An iPhone Fold is still expected to follow this release.
At this year's SID Review event in South Korea, the Samsung Display Managing Director Baek Seung-in spoke on the topic of foldable display reliability. Despite improvements being made over time from their initially weak start, these displays are not yet as durable as non-foldable alternatives.
Reports indicate Apple is collaborating with both Samsung Display and LG Display on producing its first product incorporating such technology. They also suggest Apple has been applying for patents related to products featuring foldable screens while industry observers anticipate their entry into this field will boost adoption rates.
The consensus appears to be that Apple is awaiting improvements in the durability and reliability of foldable displays before launching any devices using them. However, supply chain uncertainties persist about when exactly one can expect these new products from Apple.
Interestingly enough though six years ago they were granted patent rights for dual-display hardware resembling MacBooks equipped with unique hinges which transitioned automatically into digital keyboards upon requiring text input.
Curious.
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Apple's market value surged by $71 billion following reports of its clandestine development of an 'Apple GPT', designed to challenge OpenAI. The tech giant is stepping into the generative AI arena, vying alongside numerous competitors for OpenAI's supremacy in AI technology.
Bloomberg revealed that Apple has been covertly crafting a tool named Apple GPT, echoing ChatGPT - the renowned AI chatbot and formerly fastest-growing 'app'. This service was constructed on proprietary models from Ajax, a framework initially developed last year and utilising Google Cloud.
This move trails after the release of ChatGPT by OpenAI; this sparked widespread popularity and triggered other companies such as Microsoft and Google to launch their own versions. Despite being operational internally at Apple, it remains uncertain when Apple GPT will be publicly accessible due to security concerns causing intermittent progress.
Despite media focus on AI, it was noticeably absent from discussions during Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference in June. Reports suggest that while substantial efforts are being made behind closed doors at Apple towards adopting more generative AIs into their products, they're not yet ready to reveal these plans publicly.
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple has kept quiet about generative AIs but admits using ChatGPT himself. His reservations lie with security issues which need addressing before full adoption can occur.
Already incorporating machine learning across all devices via Siri – its virtual assistant – improvements have already been witnessed through the Ajax framework application. However commercialisation strategies for launching an initial chatbot based on Generative AI still pose challenges for the company.
Security seems to be a bottom line challenge too.
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The iPhone 15 series could feature enhanced stacked battery technology for improved energy density and extended lifespan, according to a recent rumour by Twitter user RGcloudS. This information emerged as part of an alleged leak regarding Samsung's Galaxy S24+ and S24 Ultra models, which are reportedly also adopting the same technology.
Stacked batteries use a lamination manufacturing technique that folds elements into zig-zag layers instead of rolling them up. This results in less wasted space within the cell and more active material, leading to higher overall capacity. In addition, heat distribution is more uniform across the cell, extending its lifespan.
Electric vehicles heavily use stacked batteries due to their high power output, rapid recharging capabilities and superior energy densities. They're also used in medical devices, aerospace/aviation industries and renewable energy storage systems.
RGcloudS also suggests Apple might be exploring 40W wired charging and 20W MagSafe charging but isn't sure if it pertains to the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 lineup. Currently, the iPhone 14 Pro Max offers peak wired charging speeds of up to 29W while MagSafe only charges at 15W.
Although this rumour has circulated widely on various websites and news outlets from RGcloudS who primarily handles Android leaks; their credibility with respect to Apple leaks remains uncertain.
We shall wait and see.
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People have been wondering what Apple is planning with AI. Recent discussions has focused on how their chips seem far more capable than the uses they are being put to, and new developments such as being able to clone your voice drops serious hints about future capabilities.
The time for a big and aggressive push into AI may almost be here. That’s according to Dan Ives, an analyst at Wedbush Securities.
Apple already uses machine learning for Siri and smart photo rendering. The newer A-series chips highlight their neural processing capabilities, while iOS 17 is rich with machine learning functionalities, featuring an advanced auto-correct keyboard. But unlike the Google Pixel 7, which has a Tensor chip that prioritizes AI processing, iPhones are not as AI-driven.
Since it seems like the iPhone 15 series will have limited hardware upgrades from the iPhone 14, with the exception of a potential periscope camera on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, it makes sense to concentrate on improving AI and software.
Ives thinks that with AI, the iOS Health app can give personalized advice on workouts, meals and exercise based on your heart rate, sleep and breathing data.
The analyst also suggests that Apple could use AI to track a person’s mood by listening to their speech, even analysing text messages. Some people may object to such a feature, even if it stays on the device.
Apple's focus on AI may be imminent, considering the emergence of ChatGPT, Google Bard chatbots, and other AI-based systems, applications, and tools.
With phone hardware upgrades no longer providing significant performance and photography improvements, AI and smarter software could be the new frontier for smartphones.
However, I believe that Apple's Siri virtual assistant is far less intelligent than Google Assistant, and that Apple's AI technology in the consumer arena has a long way to go to catch up with Google.
Apple could enhance the use of AI on iPhones by focusing on specific apps and services, such as the Health app, and introducing AI-powered features in a smart and non-intrusive way, while optimizing machine learning models in incremental steps.
The Apple September Event is just around the corner, where Apple is expected to unveil iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Not long now.
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Accessing offline maps on Apple Maps will be as simple as tapping your phone. Users will have the ability to easily select and download an area on their device with just one tap. Even when offline, users can access turn-by-turn navigation for driving, walking, public transport and cycling, find places in Maps, see their estimated time of arrival and more.
Exploring the great outdoors is made easy in the United States with thousands of park trails. Maps now simplifies the process of finding trails in US parks by providing place cards with detailed information such as trail length, type, difficulty, and elevation gain.
Maps users who have electric vehicles will be able to filter real-time charging station availability by plug type, charging network, and more. In addition, those with compatible vehicles can specify a preferred charging network.
One of my favourite apps, Apple Fitness+, will offer Custom Plans that allow you to create your own workout or meditation routine. Custom Plans offer personalised workout or meditation schedules based on your preferences like day, duration, workout type and more.
Queuing Fitness+ workouts and meditations will be possible with Stacks. With the introduction of Stacks, Fitness+ users can select and complete several workouts and meditations in a row, without any interruptions. To use again in the future, stacks can be saved to a user's library.
Audio Focus will also be available on Fitness+ to help you dial in your workout or meditation. With Audio Focus, Fitness+ users can prioritize either the music or trainer's voice for a more personalised workout experience.
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Late last week, Bloomberg released a report describing some of the planning going on in the Apple retail division to prepare for the launch of the Apple Vision Pro headset, previously announced as available in the US “early next year.”
The report states that Vision Pro will be sold by appointment only, at least initially. Customers will be assisted by Apple retail staff to get a Vision Pro with the appropriate headband and light seal to ensure a proper fit.
No Apple product has ever had such a complex rollout.
Appointments will be mandatory for retail purchases. A designated area within the store will be allocated by Apple to facilitate headset demos and sizing tools to aid customers in selecting the right headset and accessories. Initially, the device will be available for purchase in major cities such as New York and Los Angeles before expanding to all Apple stores in the US.
The logistical complexity is a consequence of the vast array of accessory choices. Apple will provide a wide variety of headband and light seal sizes. Stores need to keep a large inventory of "try-on stock" and spares, in addition to purchasable stock, to cater to customers who wish to buy multiple headsets. Apple stores will also need to have Carl Zeiss prescription lenses available in their inventory. According to Bloomberg, Apple stores may require hundreds or even thousands of lenses in stock at any given moment.
The top strap, which is still being developed, is intended to improve comfort for users with smaller head sizes. Apple is looking into collaborating with accessory makers to make pouches for the external battery pack, in order to support a variety of clothing.
With these factors in play, it becomes even more challenging for Apple to deploy Vision Pro outside of their stores. The report says Apple does not anticipate selling Vision Pro in third-party retail locations at least until 2025.
Customers will also have the opportunity to purchase online. A face scanning app is in the works at Apple to help users select the right size of light seal for their face. During checkout, users will be required to upload a facial scan and provide their eye prescription information if they wear glasses and need corrective lenses for the headset.
Vision Pro will only be available in the US during launch. Apple has pledged to expand to more countries by the end of 2024. According to Bloomberg, Canada and the UK are the most probable first choices for expansion, with Europe and Asia to follow.
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The old adage, "the best camera is the one you have with you," applies to our ever-present smartphones. However, Apple has warned that some iPhone photos could be removed permanently on July 26th if not backed up properly.
Your digital photo archives are always at hand for showcasing or browsing. But due to certain changes announced by Apple, lack of preparation might lead to loss of your iPhone photos in a few weeks.
Apple plans to end its My Photo Stream feature on July 26th. Introduced in 2011 as a free image cloud storage feature for Apple devices, it enabled easy access across devices by storing up to 1000 images for 30 days. Despite there being time left before this change takes effect, Apple started phasing out this service from June 26th and ceased uploading new images. Therefore anyone who hasn't stored their images elsewhere after deleting them from their iPhone could face issues.
Photos uploaded before June 26 will remain in iCloud for thirty days from upload date and accessible where My Photo Stream is enabled; however, no pictures will survive beyond July 26 when the service ends.
Nevertheless, these adjustments won't affect any photos saved on your phone or other device even if they're not backed up elsewhere.
“The photos in My Photo Stream are already stored on at least one of your devices, so as long as you have the device with your originals, you won’t lose any photos as part of this process,” Apple explains in its service notice. “If a photo you want isn’t already in your library on a particular iPhone, iPad, or Mac, make sure that you save it to your library on that device.”
To secure and save endangered photos within your stream open the Photos app and follow through: tap 'Albums' -> 'My Photo Stream' -> 'Select'. Choose which pictures need saving then press ‘Share’ followed by 'Save Image'.
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There’s a great report from Mark Gurman on Bloomberg today - let me summarise it for you.
Seven years ago, Apple was criticised for the introduction of AirPods and the removal of iPhone’s headphone jack. Today, these wireless earbuds are a top product for Apple, contributing billions to their annual revenue and positively impacting iPhone sales. And you see them everywhere.
The success of the AirPods also helped boost the company’s Wearables, Home and Accessories category, outpacing both iPad and Mac in sales growth. Revenue quadrupled since AirPods’ launch reaching $41 billion last year.
Apple quickly improved upon the AirPods’ original design—introducing hands-free Siri support, better battery life, noise cancellation features with Pro models—and is now preparing for further enhancements including health-related features like hearing tests and body-temperature measurements.
In efforts to position AirPods as a potential hearing aid—a market worth $10 billion annually—Apple has added features like Conversation Boost and Live Listen but awaits regulatory approval. The US Food & Drug Administration eased purchase rules on hearing aids last year which offers opportunities for companies like Apple who have started hiring engineers from traditional hearing aid manufacturers.
Plans include introducing sensors that can measure body temperature via wearer’s ear canal—an approach deemed more accurate than wrist temperature collected by current devices such as Apple Watch Series 8. Though health-focused enhancements may take time to develop; other changes occur sooner with plans to shift towards USB-C charging ports paralleling similar moves across other products in line with ongoing developments within industry standards.
Despite these anticipated changes, don’t expect an immediate new launch for all-new AirPods Pro hardware still under development following their three-year upgrade cycle established since its launch back in 2019.
Recently at Worldwide Developers Conference, previews were showcased featuring upcoming additions alongside iOS17 roll-out plans inclusive of several long-awaited functions such as mute/unmute button during calls or improvements made around device switch capabilities among paired devices plus adaptive audio feature enabling automatic shifts between noise-cancellation versus transparency modes.
Some of these changes should have been in place years ago - others are welcome improvements that I’m looking forward to.
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Bloomberg reports that Apple is set to release refreshed versions of its major product lines, including a new Apple Watch Ultra and the iPhone 15, planned for a traditional autumn launch.
Two new 24-inch iMacs are also expected to be released. Early work on an even larger 30-inch model has begun, which would make it Apple’s biggest all-in-one screen size yet. Refreshes for iPad Pro and iPad Air are anticipated too, with OLED screens finally coming to the two iPad Pro models.
The next-generation Apple Watch 9 will reportedly come in two sizes along with the introduction of an 'Apple Watch Ultra'. The MacBook Pro range will feature three variants sized at 13-,14- and 16-inches respectively. All these models will sport Apple's new M3 chipset.
However, the company's $3,500 Vision Pro headset won't utilise this chip but instead rely on their current-generation M2 processor.
Surprisingly, another refresh of the recently launched 15-inch MacBook Air is already underway according to Bloomberg.
As well as unveiling these products, attention is being given to how well Vision Pro sells - Apple's latest venture into virtual reality (VR). Despite some users reporting motion sickness or discomfort from wearing it, overall reactions have been positive due largely because Vision Pro boasts high-definition screens and custom processors designed specifically to reduce latency — making it more powerful than most competitors in the VR space.
Finally, Bloomberg reported that Apple plans on relaxing restrictions over who can take home their headset while extending access beyond senior engineers/executives towards selected developers starting next month as they look forward to expanding the VisionOS ecosystem.
Already under way are projects focusing on bifurcated products: one being a second-generation high-end model continuing the original Vision Pro series; and another lower end version.
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Interactive text, an underrated iOS feature present since the iPhone's inception, allows you to tap phone numbers or addresses for quick actions. However, not all apps integrate this feature and some even restrict copying parts of a message.
Understandable, but annoying.
But today, I'm going to share a little tip to work around that.
To overcome this limitation, you can use Live Text to copy any text or access un-tappable phone numbers and addresses by taking a screenshot.
To do so, ensure your iPhone runs on iOS 15 or higher. Follow these steps:
1. Take a screenshot of the desired text.
2. Tap the floating preview at the bottom left to open the editor.
3. Disable the markup tool by tapping Pen icon in top toolbar.
4. Tap the Live Text button in bottom-right corner; iOS highlights all text in the screenshot.
5. The Copy All button copies everything; alternatively, tap on specific text to select and copy as usual.
Phone numbers and addresses will be underlined for easy calling or locating via your default Map app with just one tap. Once finished, click Done and choose Delete Screenshot option to remove it from your camera roll. Although not as convenient as selectable in-app texts, it serves as an effective workaround for now.
Let me know if this tip is useful to you and if you'd like to see more of this kind of content in this feed.
Thanks for listening - please like, share and subscribe to help me grow my audience base. Cheers.
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HomePod users can now look forward to enjoying not only Apple Music but also third-party services like Pandora, Deezer, and iHeartRadio. Although the list of compatible apps is limited, Apple aims to change this with iOS 17. This update allows users to ask Siri to play media from apps installed on their iPhone or iPad through HomePod.
With iOS 17, as revealed at WWDC 2023, Siri and AirPlay updates enable users to request their HomePod to play media from an app on their iOS device even if it lacks native HomePod support. The prerequisite is that the iOS app must be compatible with the SiriKit API for voice control via Siri.
Apple clarifies that "once HomePod processes a request, a SiriKit intent is sent to the iPhone; then Siri starts your app and AirPlays content back to the speaker." In essence, Siri will use your iPhone's connection via AirPlay to automatically play requested content.
While native HomePod apps function without needing proximity to your device, using iPhone or iPad apps requires both devices connected within the same Wi-Fi network. Apple reassures that "any app supporting SiriKit Media Intents today will work seamlessly without additional changes."
This integration accommodates music apps, audiobooks, podcasts, radio stations and meditation programs. In certain cases, commands such as liking or adding media are also available. As stated by Apple: "Everything your app can do on iOS today will work on HomePod," including playing artists' songs or albums across various genres.
For households with multiple registered users in the Home App, voice recognition directs requests accordingly. This significant change enhances usability for those who don't subscribe exclusively to Apple Music which comes pre-installed on every Apple device.
This will be a big and welcome change for me, a big radio listener using my iPhone which just won't work on my Homepod Mini if I try to initiate listening there. Hopefully this will fix that issue.
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Last week, the European Parliament passed a law to make it easier to recycle batteries. New rules mean iPhones and iPads have to be redesigned so users can switch out their batteries easier. Android devices will also be subject to the same mandate.
This marks the second significant hardware change for Apple products due to EU legislation; iPhones will soon feature a USB-C port instead of Lightning as a result of another European requirement.
The current iPhone and iPad batteries are technically replaceable but require specialised tools and expertise. Mistakes during this process can cause extensive damage, making it unsuitable for average users with household tools. Since batteries are among the first components to wear out in smartphones or tablets, replacing them could significantly extend their lifespan. However, many devices end up discarded with their original batteries still installed.
The recently passed EU legislation demands that portable batteries in appliances should be designed such that consumers can easily remove and replace them themselves. While swappable batteries aren’t explicitly required by law, it implies that when a device’s battery health declines, replacing it should be straightforward.
Apple has already made steps towards facilitating easier repairs on its handsets after years of producing hard-to-repair phones prioritising slim designs over repairability features like visible screws or removable components without glue usage. After dismantling an iPhone 14 prototype, iFixit stated: “Apple has gone back to the drawing board and reworked the iPhone’s internals to make repair easier.” The company now uses fewer glues and more screws while providing front-and-back panel access in its design.
What's more, Apple brought out the iPhone Self Service Program giving customers what they need to do their own repairs. It's still up in the air if these changes meet EU regulations for user battery replacement.
Though not yet fully approved – awaiting formal endorsement from the European Council following parliamentary approval on June 14, I’m still to see news on that – this rule is expected to pass without issues since both parties have reached prior agreement on it.
While the legislation will only directly affect devices sold within the European Union, it is unlikely that Apple and other manufacturers will create region-specific designs. So, iPhone users worldwide are likely to benefit from these replaceable battery requirements.
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Rumours suggest that the iPhone 15 may undergo a significant shakeup, with the regular model potentially featuring a 48-MP sensor currently exclusive to Pro iPhones. This information comes from a supply chain report by Chinese site ITHome, which discusses Sony's production capacity shortages for its camera units due to the upgraded 48-megapixel size.
According to ITHome, Sony has struggled to fulfil Apple's orders for higher-quality camera modules compared to previous iPhone generations. As a result, they have sought assistance from Taiwan Semiconductor. This increased demand could indicate that Apple plans to equip both premium and basic models with the 48-MP camera.
The upcoming iPhone 15 Pro versions are expected to retain three cameras but may also include a periscope-style rear sensor alongside ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. To justify the price difference between regular and Pro models, additional features would be necessary if all iPhones were equipped with a three-stack 48-MP lens.
Respected sources claim that there might be four iPhone 15 models available at release, including an all-new "Pro Ultra" variant at the highest end. The standard 6.1-inch iPhone 15 could also have a larger counterpart called the iPhone 15 Plus measuring at 6.7 inches.
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Apple usually has new colors and styles of iPhones, but most people immediately put cases on them.
That could be changing. Many Apple users treat naked iPhones as status symbols. This behaviour maybe stems from a few different beliefs. Some think cases look cheap, while others just want to imitate celebrities with bare iPhones.
Either way, it's surprisingly trendy. Time Magazine wrote about tycoons like Elon Musk and Jay-Z who were spotted with caseless iPhones. They radiate "stealth wealth" energy.
Supposedly.
Not to mention, plain iPhones look great. People love the glossy look and sharp edges of their devices, so they don't use cases.
They prioritize aesthetics over preservation.
It's definitely worth it to show off the iPhone's design from time to time. People hardly ever take their cases off. Heaps of iPhones live their lives stuck in cases and screen protectors — nobody gets to see what they're actually like. Not even the people who shelled out possibly thousands of dollars to get one.
Well, Apple just got a patent that could make cases obsolete.
Patently Apple reports that the company has been granted a patent for an “abrasion-resistant back panel made of glass or metal” suitable for iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. The key is using more than one material in the chassis construction. Though the patent focuses on metal and ceramic materials, it could potentially apply to others as well.
The patented tech includes a "moldable matrix" made of "abrasion-resistant members" that are tougher than the stuff around it. The diagram shows almost invisible beads laid out in a regular pattern with an average gap of 10-100 microns. It also reveals that areas containing the Apple logo and camera would be free from these abrasion-resistant elements.
This intriguing patent could be close to implementation and might become a significant selling point for those who use protective iPhone cases. Apple sells iPhone cases, but they'd probably rather you show off the device without one - like on an Apple TV+ show - so this feature might show up soon, maybe even with the iPhone 16.
Are you ready to dump your case? Drop me a comment and let me know.
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Here are some exciting new Apple Music & Podcasts features and experiences users can anticipate once iOS17 rolls out:
1. Collaborative Playlists: Apple Music subscribers can create and edit playlists with family and friends, incorporating track selections, edits, and emoji reactions.
2. Enhanced Apple Music Sing experience: Using Continuity Camera, users can see themselves on screen with camera filters while singing along to their favorite songs. Can’t see me using it much, but I think my daughters might.
3. Song Credits in Apple Music: Fans can access detailed information about artists' contributions to tracks, including roles and instruments played. One for the geeks, or who like tracking their music family trees - I kind of like doing this every now and again.
4. SharePlay in the car: Everyone can easily choose what's playing by connecting trusted iPhone devices to an ongoing session; listeners control music from their own devices even without an Apple Music subscription. I can see this being both brilliant and a constant source of car drama.
5. Streamable catalog of radio shows on Apple Podcasts: Subscribers gain access to award-winning commercial-free radio programs that automatically notify when a new episode drops. This is one that I’ll be using a lot.
Additionally, improvements are coming soon for Apple Podcasts:
1. New Now Playing experience: A refreshed design showcasing podcast art with enhanced controls for managing queues. Better queue management is well overdue.
2. Episode art exploration: With support for episode art throughout the platform, listeners will discover more details about a podcast's content alongside improved previews, play options or follow functions within episodes and channels in Up Next.
3. App Store connection with subscriptions: Access exclusive content through eligible subscriptions connected to top apps like Bloomberg, Calm, The Economist, L’Équipe, Lingokids, The Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, & WELT.
That’s it for today. Be sure to subscribe on whatever platform you are listening or watching this podcast for more, and be sure to like it too if you do - it really helps me and the show. Cheers.
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