RPRNA

Search results for: “Wear OS 3”

  • Could AI make iPhones a thing of the past by 2035?

    Could AI make iPhones a thing of the past by 2035?

    At a recent media event, Eddy Cue, a senior Apple leader, dropped a surprising prediction. He suggested that by 2035, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) might mean we no longer need iPhones. Speaking at the Paley Center, Cue shared his thoughts on how AI is reshaping the way we interact with technology. He believes future devices could become so smart that smartphones might feel unnecessary.

    Cue highlighted how AI is already simplifying tasks like organizing schedules, sending messages, or finding information. He envisions a future where compact, AI-driven gadgets—perhaps wearable or seamlessly part of our surroundings—could handle all the functions of today’s iPhones, but in a more intuitive way. This could make carrying a phone seem old-fashioned.

    While Cue didn’t say iPhones will vanish completely, he hinted that Apple is exploring ways to weave AI deeply into its products to stay ahead. The iPhone remains central to Apple’s success for now, but Cue’s vision suggests a bold shift on the horizon.

    Known for driving Apple’s growth in areas like Apple Music and streaming, Cue has a knack for spotting trends. His comments about AI signal that Apple is preparing for a future where innovation could redefine its most famous device. As AI continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how Apple shapes what’s next.

  • Apple Watch sales drop and Epic Games costly battle with Apple

    Apple Watch sales drop and Epic Games costly battle with Apple

    Apple Watch Sales Decline

    For two years, Apple Watch sales have been falling worldwide, according to recent data. The smartwatch, once a must-have gadget, is losing ground to competitors offering similar features at lower prices. Experts suggest Apple needs to introduce exciting new features to win back customers.

    Ideas like better health tracking, such as blood pressure monitoring, or a fresh design could help. Without these changes, Apple risks falling behind in the fast-moving wearable tech market. The company’s focus on small updates hasn’t been enough to keep users hooked, and many are choosing other brands that feel more innovative or affordable.

    Epic Games’ Fight with Apple

    Meanwhile, Epic Games, the company behind Fortnite, has spent over $1 billion battling Apple’s App Store rules, says CEO Tim Sweeney. The five-year legal fight challenged Apple’s control over in-app payments, costing Epic millions in legal fees and lost iOS revenue.

    Despite the huge price tag, Sweeney believes it was worth it to push for a fairer app market. The recent court ruling forced Apple to allow developers to link to external payment options, a win for Epic. This could bring Fortnite back to iPhones and reduce Apple’s 30% fee on app purchases, benefiting developers and players alike.

    Looking Ahead

    Apple faces challenges on two fronts: reviving the Apple Watch with bold new features and navigating a shifting App Store landscape. Both situations highlight the need for Apple to adapt to stay competitive in tech and gaming markets.

  • Apple drops iPhone 17’s anti-glare feature and AirPods Pro 3 brings a lasting upgrade

    Apple drops iPhone 17’s anti-glare feature and AirPods Pro 3 brings a lasting upgrade

    Apple was working on adding a new anti-reflective coating to the iPhone 17’s display, but it looks like those plans have been canceled. According to reports, the company faced some problems during testing, making the coating less durable than they hoped. The special layer, which was supposed to reduce screen reflections and fingerprints, didn’t meet Apple’s high-quality standards. Now, the company is exploring better ways to improve display quality in the future.

    Meanwhile, Apple’s next-generation AirPods Pro 3 could deliver a feature that fans will appreciate. The new model is expected to come with better ear tips that last longer. Current AirPods Pro ear tips can wear out and need replacement over time, but the upcoming ones could be stronger, meaning users won’t have to replace them as often. This simple change would not only improve comfort but also save users money in the long run.

    Apple is rumored to launch the AirPods Pro 3 in 2025, possibly with a new design and improved sound quality. While the iPhone 17 may have missed out on its anti-glare upgrade, the AirPods Pro 3 looks like it will bring a small but meaningful improvement that users will notice and appreciate over time.

    Source/Via

  • iOS 19 makes AirPods more useful with new hearing features

    iOS 19 makes AirPods more useful with new hearing features

    Apple is working on some new updates that will make AirPods even more helpful, especially with iOS 19. One of the standout changes includes using AirPods as hearing aids. According to a recent report, this feature could arrive later this year.

    Apple already has something called “Conversation Boost” for AirPods Pro, which helps users hear voices better in noisy places. But with iOS 19, Apple may take things a step further by officially allowing AirPods to be used as hearing aids. This could be a big deal for people with mild hearing problems.

    The idea isn’t entirely new — past reports from Bloomberg mentioned that Apple wants to bring health-focused tools to AirPods, including better hearing support. Some users already use AirPods in “Live Listen” mode, which lets them hear through their iPhone’s microphone. However, Apple has never claimed these are medical tools.

    If AirPods become real hearing aids, they may need FDA approval in some countries, depending on how advanced the features are. Apple might be preparing for this, as the company keeps pushing health features across its devices.

    The new hearing aid feature is expected to arrive with iOS 19, likely launching around September 2025. Apple might reveal more details at WWDC 2025 in June.

    In short, iOS 19 could turn your AirPods into something more than just earbuds — they might soon help people hear better in everyday life.

  • Apple starts working on iOS 18.6 and tests new Apple Watch series 10 design

    Apple starts working on iOS 18.6 and tests new Apple Watch series 10 design

    Apple has kicked off testing for iOS 18.6, a future update for iPhones, even though iOS 18.4 isn’t out yet for everyone. This news comes from logs on Apple’s website, spotted on March 31, 2025. The company is moving fast, as iOS 18.5 is still in the works too.

    Usually, these updates bring small fixes or security patches, but we don’t know the details yet since it’s early days. With iOS 18.4 set to launch soon—possibly next week—Apple seems eager to keep improving the iPhone experience.

    Meanwhile, Apple is also playing with a new look for the Apple Watch Series 10. A prototype was found with a bigger 2-inch screen, up from the current 1.93-inch size. This test model keeps the same flat edges but swaps the usual aluminum or titanium body for shiny stainless steel.

    It’s a bold change, making the watch look sleeker and more eye-catching. However, there’s no word yet on whether this design will hit stores—it’s just an experiment for now. Both projects show Apple’s busy schedule in 2025.

    The iOS 18.6 testing hints at more tweaks for iPhone users, while the Apple Watch prototype suggests fresh ideas for its popular wearable. Fans are excited, but we’ll have to wait for official news to see what sticks. For now, it’s clear Apple’s cooking up something big behind the scenes!

  • Making Apple Vision Pro easier to wear

    Making Apple Vision Pro easier to wear

    The main complaints about the Apple Vision Pro have been its cost and its weight. Apple is already working on a cheaper version, and a new patent suggests a way to make the headset lighter. People who tried it early on noted that the headset feels heavy after a while, and I felt the same when I used it.

    John Gruber, a well-known tech commentator, shared similar thoughts:

    “The Vision Pro is heavy. I wore it for hours without pain, but the weight does become tiring. You can’t forget you’re wearing it. Plus, it’s quite big, like a large, heavy pair of goggles on your face.”

    During my hour-long session, I noticed the weight and comfort issues. Comfort is a big challenge with this kind of technology. On a warm day, even by UK standards, my upper face felt hot inside the headset, similar to my experiences with the Meta Quest 2.

    The weight was particularly noticeable after about 30 minutes. With my Quest, I use an extra battery pack at the back, which helps balance the weight. However, the Vision Pro is front-heavy, and that was starting to bother me, especially when moving my head up and down.

    A recent patent from Apple, highlighted by Patently Apple, offers a solution: moving the processor and other components away from the headset, much like they did with the battery.

    The patent starts by discussing the problem:

    “Head-mounted displays (HMDs) should be comfortable for long periods. As we add more features, battery life, and performance, we add more weight. We need to balance comfort with the device’s capabilities.”

    A heavy front can make wearing the device less enjoyable. Apple recognizes this and suggests a need for a lighter HMD that doesn’t compromise on performance. They also tackle the heat problem, suggesting better ways to manage heat. Currently, the Vision Pro uses a separate battery pack to help with weight, and the patent suggests that the processing could be moved into this external “cartridge.”

    This cartridge would house the processor, which would send video to the headset’s display, and could be attached or detached as needed. One idea is to have the processor in a unit that can either sit in the headset or be housed in an external case, providing flexibility in how the user wears the device.

  • Apple’s new plan for easy-to-wear smart glasses

    Apple’s new plan for easy-to-wear smart glasses

    Apple is working on a new version of its visionOS software, which currently powers the Apple Vision Pro, to make it work with smart glasses. This move is part of their plan to offer more popular augmented reality (AR) products that are less bulky than their current headset.

    Apple’s Vision Pro Challenges

    The Apple Vision Pro, which costs $3,500, hasn’t been as successful as hoped. Many people have found it too heavy to wear for long periods, too pricey, and it also tends to get hot. Since it was released, interest has dropped, and sales haven’t met Apple’s goals.

    In his newsletter, tech journalist Mark Gurman shared that Apple’s Vision Products Group is now focusing on something lighter and more like the smart glasses Meta made with Ray-Ban. However, it might take at least three years before these glasses are ready, as there’s still a lot of research needed.

    User Studies and Software Development

    Apple is actively testing how people react to different features and interfaces for these glasses at their offices. They’ve named this project “Atlas,” which is being managed by the Product Systems Quality team. This team is part of Apple’s hardware division.

    The research is happening in a secretive spot in Santa Clara, not far from their main office in Cupertino. Last year, Apple let go of some workers there, but those left are focusing on AR tech. They also have a place to test new screen technologies.

    Future Plans for Vision Pro

    Apple is not giving up on the Vision Pro entirely. They’re planning to make a cheaper version with simpler parts, hoping to sell it for about the price of their top-end iPhone, around $1,600. They wanted to launch this model by late 2024, but they’re still perfecting the design.

    Gaming Collaboration

    Additionally, Apple is teaming up with Sony to add support for PlayStation VR2 hand controllers to the Vision Pro, aiming to make it better for gaming. This partnership has been going on for a few months now.

    By focusing on these new, more accessible AR products, Apple hopes to expand its reach in the tech market and make AR part of everyday life.

  • Apple Refines its Ecosystem: Beta updates signal upcoming enhancements

    Apple Refines its Ecosystem: Beta updates signal upcoming enhancements

    The tech world is abuzz with Apple’s latest move: the release of second beta versions for a suite of its operating systems. This signals a continued commitment to refining user experience and introducing subtle yet impactful changes across the Apple ecosystem. Let’s delve into what these updates entail.

    macOS Sequoia 15.3: A Touch of AI Magic Comes to the Mac

    macOS Sequoia 15.3 is shaping up to be a notable update, particularly for Mac users eager to embrace Apple’s advancements in artificial intelligence. The most exciting addition is undoubtedly Genmoji, a feature previously exclusive to iPhone and iPad. This innovative tool empowers users to create personalized emoji using simple text prompts, much like the functionality found in Image Playground. Imagine typing “a smiling cat wearing a top hat” and instantly generating a unique emoji representing that description.  

    These custom-created Genmoji function seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem. On devices running the latest operating systems (iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 and later), they behave just like standard emoji. However, for users on older operating systems or even Android devices, Genmoji are sent as images, ensuring compatibility across platforms. The integration is smooth, with Genmoji accessible directly from the standard emoji interface. Importantly, the image generation process occurs directly on the device, enhancing privacy and speed. 

    This feature isn’t universally available across all Macs, however. Genmoji and other Apple Intelligence features are specifically designed to leverage the power of Apple’s silicon chips, meaning only Macs equipped with this technology will be able to take full advantage. This focus on leveraging custom hardware for AI tasks is a trend we’re seeing more and more from Apple. 

    iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3: Fine-Tuning and Future Focus

    The second betas of iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3 have also been released, continuing the cycle of refinement and improvement. While these updates don’t introduce any groundbreaking new Apple Intelligence features themselves, they lay the groundwork for future enhancements. The focus here appears to be on bug fixes, performance optimization, and subtle software refinements, ensuring a smoother and more stable user experience. 

    One area of anticipated improvement is HomeKit integration. There’s strong indication that these updates will bring support for robot vacuums within the Home app, expanding the smart home ecosystem controlled through Apple devices. Although not visibly present in the first beta, the possibility remains for this functionality to be fully realized in the final release.

    It’s expected that more significant Apple Intelligence-driven Siri features will arrive in later updates, likely with iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4. These incremental updates allow Apple to roll out changes in a measured way, ensuring stability and allowing developers time to adapt.  

    watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, and visionOS 2.3: Expanding the Connected Experience

    Apple has also seeded second betas for watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, and visionOS 2.3. These updates, while not packed with immediately visible features, contribute to a more cohesive and interconnected experience across Apple’s diverse product range.  

    Similar to iOS and iPadOS, these updates are expected to bring support for robot vacuums within HomeKit, ensuring consistency across all platforms. This means users will be able to control their robotic cleaning devices directly from their Apple Watch, Apple TV, and even through visionOS.

    Interestingly, there’s been a change regarding previously announced features for tvOS 18.3. The planned new TV and Movies and Soundscapes screen savers, initially unveiled in June, appear to have been removed from the current beta build. This suggests a potential delay or even cancellation of these features, though it’s always possible they could reappear in a future update. Additionally, a new notice about digital movie and TV show sales is expected to be included in tvOS 18.3, likely related to regulatory or legal requirements.

    Looking Ahead: A Coordinated Release

    All these beta updates point towards a coordinated release strategy. It is anticipated that macOS Sequoia 15.3, alongside iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, and visionOS 2.3, will be officially launched in the coming weeks, likely towards the end of January. This synchronized release will ensure a consistent experience across the Apple ecosystem, allowing users to seamlessly transition between their various devices and benefit from the latest improvements.

    In conclusion, these beta updates from Apple represent more than just bug fixes and minor tweaks. They demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement, a focus on expanding the reach of Apple Intelligence, and a desire to create a more integrated and user-friendly experience across the entire Apple ecosystem. While some features may shift or change during the beta process, the overall direction is clear: Apple is continually refining its software to better serve its users.

  • A Fond Farewell to the Apple Watch Series 4: A pioneer of modern wearables

    A Fond Farewell to the Apple Watch Series 4: A pioneer of modern wearables

    The tech world is constantly evolving, with new innovations and advancements emerging at a dizzying pace. As we embrace the future, it’s important to pause and acknowledge the devices that paved the way. Today, we bid a fond farewell to the Apple Watch Series 4, a true pioneer in the world of smartwatches, as it officially joins Apple’s list of vintage products.

    This designation marks a significant milestone. After five years since its discontinuation, the Series 4 has transitioned from a contemporary device to a piece of tech history. While Apple and authorized service providers may still offer repairs if parts are available, this marks the end of its official lifespan in Apple’s active product lineup.  

    A Revolutionary Leap in Design and Functionality

    Released in 2018, the Apple Watch Series 4 was more than just an incremental update; it was a significant leap forward. It introduced a redesigned aesthetic with a noticeably thinner profile and a stunning 30% larger display compared to its predecessors. This larger screen made interacting with the watch more intuitive and enjoyable, significantly improving the user experience.  

    The Series 4 wasn’t just about aesthetics; it also brought groundbreaking health features to the forefront. It was the first Apple Watch to feature an electrical heart sensor capable of taking an electrocardiogram (ECG), a feature that has since become a staple in modern smartwatches. This innovation empowered users to proactively monitor their heart health, providing valuable data that could be shared with medical professionals. The inclusion of fall detection was another crucial advancement, enabling the watch to automatically contact emergency services if it detected a hard fall, a feature that has undoubtedly saved lives.  

    These advancements cemented the Apple Watch’s position not just as a fashionable accessory, but as a valuable health and safety tool. The Series 4 played a vital role in popularizing the concept of wearable health monitoring, influencing the direction of the entire smartwatch industry.

    The Legacy of Innovation

    The Series 4’s impact extends beyond its hardware features. It also played a crucial role in the evolution of watchOS, Apple’s dedicated operating system for its wearables. The larger display allowed developers to create more complex and engaging apps, further expanding the functionality of the Apple Watch ecosystem.  

    The recent release of watchOS 11, while bringing exciting new features to newer models, also marked the end of software support for the Series 4, along with the Series 5 and the original Apple Watch SE. This is a natural part of the product lifecycle, allowing Apple to focus its resources on developing and optimizing software for its current generation of devices. While users of these older models won’t receive the latest features, their watches will continue to function with their existing software.  

    A Parallel Farewell: The 15-inch MacBook Pro (2019)

    The Apple Watch Series 4 isn’t the only device joining the vintage list. The final 15-inch MacBook Pro model, released in May 2019, has also received this designation. This particular model holds a unique place in Apple’s history, as it was quickly succeeded by the groundbreaking 16-inch MacBook Pro just a few months later in November of the same year. The 16-inch model introduced a redesigned keyboard and smaller bezels, setting the stage for the modern MacBook Pro design language.  

    Remembering the Pioneers

    The transition of the Apple Watch Series 4 and the 15-inch MacBook Pro to the vintage list serves as a reminder of the rapid pace of technological advancement. These devices, while no longer at the forefront of Apple’s product lineup, played a crucial role in shaping the technology we use today. They represent a period of significant innovation and design evolution, and their legacy will continue to influence the future of wearables and personal computing.

    As we move forward with newer and more advanced technologies, it’s important to acknowledge and appreciate the devices that paved the way. The Apple Watch Series 4, with its groundbreaking design and health features, will be remembered as a true pioneer in the world of smartwatches, a device that helped define the modern wearable landscape.

  • Streamlining Siri and Unleashing Creativity: A deep dive into iOS 18.2

    Streamlining Siri and Unleashing Creativity: A deep dive into iOS 18.2

    The relentless march of iOS updates continues, and iOS 18.2 has arrived, bringing with it a suite of enhancements both subtle and significant. Beyond the headline features, I’ve discovered some real gems that streamline everyday interactions and unlock new creative possibilities. Let’s delve into two aspects that particularly caught my attention: a refined approach to interacting with Siri and the intriguing new “Image Playground” app.

    A More Direct Line to Siri: Typing Takes Center Stage

    Siri has always been a powerful tool, but sometimes voice commands aren’t the most practical option. Whether you’re in a noisy environment, a quiet library, or simply prefer to type, having a streamlined text-based interaction is crucial. iOS 18.2 addresses this with a thoughtful update to the “Type to Siri” feature.

    Previously, accessing this mode involved navigating through Accessibility settings, which, while functional, wasn’t exactly seamless. This approach also had the unfortunate side effect of hindering voice interactions. Thankfully, Apple has introduced a dedicated control for “Type to Siri,” making it significantly more accessible.

    This new control can be accessed in several ways, offering flexibility to suit different user preferences. One of the most convenient methods, in my opinion, is leveraging the iPhone’s Action Button (for those models that have it). By assigning the “Type to Siri” control to the Action Button, you can instantly launch the text-based interface with a single press.1 This is a game-changer for quick queries or when discretion is paramount.

    But the integration doesn’t stop there. The “Type to Siri” control can also be added to the Control Center, providing another quick access point. Furthermore, for those who prefer to keep their Action Button assigned to other functions, you can even add the control to the Lock Screen, replacing the Flashlight or Camera shortcut. This level of customization is a testament to Apple’s focus on user experience.

    Imagine quickly needing to set a reminder during a meeting – a discreet tap of the Action Button, a few typed words, and you’re done. No need to awkwardly whisper to your phone or fumble through settings. This refined approach to “Type to Siri” makes interacting with your device feel more intuitive and efficient.

    One particularly useful tip I discovered involves combining “Type to Siri” with keyboard text replacements. For example, if you frequently use Siri to interact with ChatGPT, you could set up a text replacement like “chat” to automatically expand to “ask ChatGPT.” This simple trick can save you valuable time and keystrokes.

    Unleashing Your Inner Artist: Exploring Image Playground

    Beyond the improvements to Siri, iOS 18.2 introduces a brand-new app called “Image Playground,” and it’s a fascinating addition.2 This app, powered by Apple’s on-device processing capabilities (a key distinction from cloud-based alternatives), allows you to generate unique images based on text descriptions, photos from your library, and more.3

    “Image Playground” offers a playful and intuitive way to create images in various styles, including animation, illustration, and sketch.4 The fact that the image generation happens directly on your device is a significant advantage, ensuring privacy and allowing for rapid iteration.

    The app’s interface is user-friendly, guiding you through the process of creating your custom images. You can start with a photo from your library, perhaps a portrait of yourself or a friend, and then use text prompts to transform it. Want to see yourself wearing a spacesuit on Mars? Simply upload your photo and type in the description. The app then generates several variations based on your input, allowing you to choose the one you like best.

    Apple has also included curated themes, places, costumes, and accessories to inspire your creations. These suggestions provide a starting point for experimentation and help you discover the app’s full potential.

    It’s important to note that the images generated by “Image Playground” are not intended to be photorealistic. Instead, they embrace a more artistic and stylized aesthetic, leaning towards animation and illustration. This artistic approach gives the app a distinct personality and encourages creative exploration.

    The integration of “Image Playground” extends beyond the standalone app. You can also access it directly within other apps like Messages, Keynote, Pages, and Freeform. This seamless integration makes it easy to incorporate your creations into various contexts, from casual conversations to professional presentations. Apple has also made an API available for third-party developers, opening up even more possibilities for integration in the future.5

    It’s worth mentioning that while iOS 18.2 is available on a wide range of devices, the “Image Playground” app and other Apple Intelligence features are currently limited to newer models, including the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 series.6 This limitation is likely due to the processing power required for on-device image generation.

    In conclusion, iOS 18.2 delivers a compelling mix of practical improvements and exciting new features. The refined “Type to Siri” experience streamlines communication, while “Image Playground” unlocks new creative avenues.7 These updates, along with other enhancements in iOS 18.2, showcase Apple’s continued commitment to improving the user experience and pushing the boundaries of mobile technology.

    Source/Via

More posts