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Search results for: “App Store”

  • New Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds now in Apple Stores with cool features

    New Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds now in Apple Stores with cool features

    The Powerbeats Pro 2 were introduced by Apple earlier this week, and now they’re available for you to pick up directly from Apple’s retail outlets. These earbuds also started reaching customers who ordered them online.

    Powerbeats Pro 2 Orange

    The Powerbeats Pro 2 come equipped with the same H2 chip found in the AirPods Pro 2, which brings features like Active Noise Cancellation, something the first Powerbeats Pro didn’t have. Another exciting addition is the heart rate monitor built into each earbud. They use LED optical sensors that flash more than 100 times a second to check your heart rate through blood flow. This can connect with apps like Peloton and Nike Run Club, enhancing your workout experience.

    You can find the Powerbeats Pro 2 in various colors like Electric Orange, Hyper Purple, Jet Black, and Quick Sand on Apple’s website. They’re priced at $249 in the U.S., matching the cost of both the AirPods Pro 2 and the original Powerbeats Pro.

    Whether you’re looking to upgrade your workout gear or just want excellent sound quality with noise cancellation, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are now easily accessible at Apple stores.

  • Changes to AppleCare+: No more long-term plans in stores

    Changes to AppleCare+: No more long-term plans in stores

    Apple is making some changes to how you can buy AppleCare+. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, starting next week, you won’t be able to buy a two or three-year AppleCare+ plan at Apple’s physical stores or directly on your device.

    This means if you’re buying a new device in an Apple store, you’ll only have the choice between a monthly or yearly subscription for AppleCare+, not a one-time payment for several years of coverage.

    Gurman also hints that in the future, even buying these longer plans on your device might not be an option anymore. This would affect everyone who doesn’t get their AppleCare plan right when they buy their device.

    However, there’s a silver lining. If you’re okay with buying online, you can still get those two to three-year plans at the time you purchase your device.

    It looks like Apple is moving towards making all AppleCare+ plans subscription-based. But for now, if you want to pay upfront for longer coverage, you’ll need to do it online at the time of device purchase.

    For example, with a 14-inch MacBook Pro, you can still opt for a three-year AppleCare+ plan for $279 upfront, which is a bit cheaper than paying $99.99 each year for three years. So, if you prefer the upfront payment for peace of mind, keep an eye out for these changes and consider buying online when you get your next Apple product.

  • Apple stores set to receive new updates next week

    Apple stores set to receive new updates next week

    Apple retail stores are preparing for “merchandise and marketing updates” next week, as reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. While Gurman hasn’t directly tied these updates to a specific product launch, he pointed out that this timing aligns with Apple’s yearly release of its Black Unity watch band for the Apple Watch.

    Apple has introduced a Black Unity campaign in late January for the past four years. This campaign typically includes a new Apple Watch band, a special watch face, and an iPhone wallpaper inspired by the Pan-African flag’s colors. Recent findings in the tvOS 18.3 update code, referencing “UNITY25,” suggest the Black Unity campaign will likely return in 2025. If this is the case, Apple may announce it next week.

    Apart from the Black Unity watch band, there’s no confirmation about other product releases next week. However, Apple is anticipated to unveil new MacBook Air models featuring the M4 chip in early 2025, as well as the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds. Gurman’s update, however, didn’t hint at these products being part of next week’s announcements.

    In addition, Apple is expected to roll out iOS 18.3, macOS 15.3, and other software updates after a month of beta testing. While the upcoming merchandise updates could hint at exciting news, keeping expectations in check is wise. There’s always the chance these updates are more routine than groundbreaking.

    Source

  • New Apple Store in Miami features a rooftop garden

    New Apple Store in Miami features a rooftop garden

    Apple has just given us a sneak peek of their brand-new store at the Miami Worldcenter, which will open its doors this Friday at 10 a.m.

    Apple’s New Miami Store: This store has been designed with the environment in mind, aiming to blend nature with shopping. Right on the roof, there’s a beautiful green space full of plants that match the local palm trees and bushes.

    “Apple Miami Worldcenter has a design that connects people with nature,” Apple explains. “When you walk in, you’ll see lots of plants inspired by Miami’s rich Latin American culture.”

    Eco-Friendly Building: They used materials from around the area to build the store, which helps in lowering the amount of carbon produced during construction.

    Services at the Store: Inside, there’s a special area where you can get help with your gadgets and pick up things you’ve bought online, all at the same spot. They’ve also set up a place where you can try out the Apple Vision Pro.

    Accessibility for Everyone: The store thinks about everyone’s needs, with different table heights, spaces for wheelchairs, and even a device to help people with hearing aids.

    Fun Activities: You can join free workshops called “Today at Apple,” where they’ll teach you creative stuff and show off how the store cares for the environment.

    This new store is not just a place to buy things; it’s a spot where nature and technology come together in Miami.

    Source

  • New apps coming to iPadOS 26 and a watchOS 26 warning

    New apps coming to iPadOS 26 and a watchOS 26 warning

    Apple’s upcoming iPadOS 26 update will bring four new apps to all supported iPads: Phone, Preview, Journal, and Games. The Phone app lets you make and receive calls directly on your iPad, a feature many users have long wanted.

    Preview makes it easy to view and edit images or PDFs, similar to its Mac counterpart, making it perfect for quick tasks like cropping photos. The Journal app offers a simple way to write down thoughts and memories, while the Games app pulls together App Store and Apple Arcade titles with features like leaderboards and achievements.

    These additions make iPads more versatile, though some users feel the simplified iPad mode could use more multitasking options like split view. On the other hand, if you own a Hermès Apple Watch, be cautious with watchOS 26 beta 2.

    Apple warns that this update causes Hermès watches to overheat, crash repeatedly, and fail to charge, likely due to issues with the Hermès watch face. The problem also affects iOS 26 beta 2, where the Apple Watch app on iPhones won’t open if paired with a Hermès model.

    Unpairing the watch fixes the app issue, but re-pairing doesn’t work. Apple advises avoiding these betas until the next update, expected soon, resolves the crashes. Both updates are part of Apple’s 2025 software overhaul, with iPadOS 26 set to launch in September. Stay tuned for more details as public betas roll out in July.

  • Apple’s chip switch and digital id in Japan

    Apple’s chip switch and digital id in Japan

    Five years ago, Apple shared big news at its 2020 WWDC event: it would start using its chips, called Apple silicon, in Macs, moving away from Intel processors. This change began with the M1 chip, which brought better speed and battery life to devices like the MacBook Air and Mac mini.

    Since then, Apple has rolled out newer chips, like the M4 and M5, making its computers faster and more efficient. The switch has been a game-changer, letting Apple control both the hardware and software for smoother performance.

    By June 2025, all new Macs will use Apple silicon, and older Intel-based Macs will stop getting full macOS updates after macOS Tahoe, though security updates will continue for a few years. In another update, Apple announced that Japan’s My Number Card can now be added to the Wallet app on iPhones running iOS 18.5 or later, starting with the iPhone XS.

    This digital ID lets users verify their identity or age at places like airports or stores without a physical card. It’s a step toward making life easier with contactless options, similar to how some U.S. states let residents add driver’s licenses to the Wallet app. This feature is rolling out slowly but shows Apple’s push to make the iPhone a one-stop tool for everyday needs. Both changes highlight Apple’s focus on improving its devices and making them more useful in daily life, whether through powerful chips or handy digital IDs.

  • Apple and Meta avoid instant EU fines but could still face big penalties

    Apple and Meta avoid instant EU fines but could still face big penalties

    Apple and Meta fined for breaking EU digital rules

    In April 2025, the European Union fined Apple €500 million and Meta €200 million for not following the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This law is meant to make digital markets fairer by giving users more choices and stopping big tech companies from limiting competition. Apple was punished for stopping app developers from telling users about cheaper deals outside the App Store, while Meta was fined for forcing users to either pay for ad-free services or agree to share their data for ads.

    No immediate new fines, but risks remain

    Both companies were given 60 days to fix their practices, with the deadline set for June 26, 2025. However, the EU has said that there will be no automatic new fines when this period ends. Instead, the Commission will first review what Apple and Meta have done and discuss their findings with the companies before deciding on any further penalties.

    Possible future penalties

    If Apple or Meta are still not following the rules after the review, they could face much bigger penalties. The EU could charge up to 5% of a company’s average daily worldwide revenue for each day they break the rules, and single fines could reach up to 10% of their yearly global revenue, or even double for repeat offenses.

    What’s next?

    For now, Apple and Meta do not have to pay more fines immediately, but they are still under pressure. The EU has not said when it will finish its review or if more penalties will come. Both companies have said they plan to challenge the fines and keep talking with EU officials.

  • Apple now lets iPhone games give promo codes for in-app items

    Apple now lets iPhone games give promo codes for in-app items

    Apple has made a new change that helps both game makers and players. Now, iPhone games can give out special promo codes for in-app purchases. Before, developers could only offer promo codes for downloading the full game or for subscriptions. But now, they can give codes that unlock things like extra levels, coins, or special items inside the game.

    This update means game creators can run more creative promotions. For example, they can reward loyal players, run giveaways, or let influencers share codes with their followers. Players can use these codes to get free or discounted in-game items, making it more fun to play.

    To use a promo code, players just need to enter it in the App Store or inside the game. The new feature is available for all iOS games, but developers need to update their apps to support it. Apple hopes this change will help games reach more people and keep players interested.

    Overall, this update gives both developers and gamers more options. Game makers can attract new players and reward existing ones, while players get more chances to enjoy free or discounted content in their favorite games.

  • Apple makes it easier to get in-app deals and fixes 2023 Mac Mini issues

    Apple makes it easier to get in-app deals and fixes 2023 Mac Mini issues

    Apple has announced two important updates for its users. First, Apple is making it simpler for app developers to offer special codes for any in-app purchase. This means you might soon see more discounts and free trials for things like game upgrades, extra features, or subscriptions inside your favorite apps.

    Before, these offer codes were only available for subscriptions, but now developers can use them for all types of in-app purchases. You’ll be able to use these codes by entering them in the App Store or directly inside the app. This change could help users save money and try new features more easily.

    The second update is about a repair program for the 2023 Mac mini. Apple found that some Mac mini models made in 2023 might have a problem where they don’t turn on after shutting down. To fix this, Apple has started a repair program.

    If you own a 2023 Mac mini and have this issue, you can get it fixed for free at an Apple Store or an authorized repair center. This program covers affected devices for up to three years after the first purchase. It’s a good way for Apple to make sure customers aren’t left with broken devices.

    With these changes, Apple is making it easier for users to get more value from their apps and to keep their devices working smoothly.

  • Apple’s new rules for fixing iPads: some good, some bad

    Apple’s new rules for fixing iPads: some good, some bad

    Apple announced how people can have their iPads repaired. Anyone with an iPad who needs to fix it will find some good news and some bad news.

    Good News:

    Apple is helping users and repair shops fix iPads by making real Apple parts and tools available to them. If your iPad breaks, you can take it to more places to fix it, not just Apple stores. It allows people to save money and use their devices more quickly.

    Bad News:

    Even if Apple allows more repairs, there are still major issues to be resolved. Since the iPad has special screens and features, it might be tricky to repair it at all service centers. A few repairs are best carried out by stores that Apple has approved, because they have the specific tools and software this work requires. Repairing the iPad yourself or getting it fixed at a store that isn’t connected to Apple may make you lose certain functions or cause messages to appear on your device.

    The Role of Underwriting In Your World:

    Having an iPad means you can get more repairs now, although some things may not be straightforward. A number of parts and repairs are not accessible, so you may still need to visit Apple for specific issues. Always confirm the problem with the manufacturer before getting your iPad repaired.

    In Short:

    Despite giving users more choices, Apple is not allowing repairs for everything. It is progress, but it doesn’t solve all the problems we have.

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