gizmosure

Tag: Apple

  • Apple rolls out iOS 12.1.3 and watchOS 5.1.3 updates

    Apple rolls out iOS 12.1.3 and watchOS 5.1.3 updates

    Apple has rolled out the final version of iOS 12.1.3 and watchOS 5.1.3 updates for users. Both updates are primarily aimed at bug fixes and patching security issues to further improve the stabilty and performance of devices. Available via the OTA (Over-the-Air) update process, users can install these latest updates on supported devices running earlier versions of iOS 12.1 and watchOS 5.1.

    The iOS 12.1.3 update for supported iPhones and iPads brings several bug fixes. These include a fix for a bug in the Messages app that affects scrolling photos in the Details View. Besides, the update also resolves an issue with the newly launched iPad Pro 2018 models, which leads to distorted audio when using an external audio input. It also resolves an issue on the iPhone XS, XS Max, and iPhone XR, which automatically leads to disconnection with certain CarPlay systems.

    For the HomePod, iOS 12.1.3 fixes a bug that caused the HomePod to abruptly restart. In addition, it also arrives with a fix for a bug that caused Siri to stop listening. You can find the complete changelog below:

    iPhone 12.1.3 release notes:

    iOS 12.1.3 includes bug fixes for your iPhone or iPad

    This update:

    • Fixes an issue in Messages that could impact scrolling through photos in the Details view
    • Addresses an issue where photos could have striped artifacts after being sent from the Share Sheet
    • Fixes an issue that may cause audio distortion when using external audio input devices on iPad Pro (2018)
    • Resolves an issue that could cause certain CarPlay systems to disconnect from iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max

    HomePod iOS 12.1.3 release notes:

    This update includes general improvements for stability and quality.

    • Fixes an issue that could cause HomePod to restart
    • Addresses an issue that could cause Siri to stop listening

    Besides, Apple has also released tvOS 12.1.2 and macOS 10.14.3 updates that also resolves security, stability and compatibility issues with your Mac.

  • Next-Gen Airpods could feature health tracking capabilities

    Next-Gen Airpods could feature health tracking capabilities

    Apple’s second generation AirPods are expected to be announced this year. And the latest information about the lightning pods suggests they could come with health monitoring capabilities. According to a report by DigiTimes, several Apple suppliers such as Compeq Manufacturing, Flexium Interconnect, and more are working on the development of next-gen AirPods.

    However, the report hasn’t delved into specific details. For instance, there’s no information as to what kind of health monitoring features next AirPods will come with.

    Although, such news shouldn’t come as a surprise as Apple has invested heavily in health monitoring. The latest Apple Watch Series 4 is good example in this context. As it comes with health-focused features such as ECG monitoring and other features such as fall detection.

    The success of the Apple Watch 4 primarily because of its fitness tracking features has reportedly convinced Apple to invest heavily in the fitness tracking market. This essentially implies that Apple is all-in on health tracking Hence, we can expect next-gen Apple products to come with fitness oriented features.

    Elsewhere, the report also suggests that upcoming AirPods might also get a major design overhaul. But then again, no specifcs were added in the report. That said, the report did mention that second generation AirPods could launch in the first half of 2019.

  • iPhone SE now offered at a huge discount

    iPhone SE now offered at a huge discount

    If you’re still looking for an iPhone SE, then we have some good news. Apple has quietly resumed selling the iPhone SE via the clearance section of its website, starting at $249.

    The prices of silver, space grey, and rose gold color variants (32GB) of the handset start at $249, down from the original $349. Meanwhile, the 128GB model of the handset is selling at $229, down from $449.

    Not to mention, all units of the iPhone SE are brand new and unlocked. That said, it appears the offer is only valid in the United States, as Apple’s UK website hasn’t listed any such offer.

    To recall, Apple stopped selling the iPhone SE in September 2018. It was the only 4-inch model in the iPhone range. Besides, it was the only iPhone model that came with a headphone jack.

    Industry experts regarded it as one of the best iPhone models ever, given the fact it packed the same A9 chip as the iPhone 6S, into a smaller body. Besides, it was also priced considerably cheaper at $349 than the rest of the Apple line up.

    The iPhone SE was launched in March 2016 in an effort to attract customers who still preferred the compact form factor and did not want to upgrade to the large screen models.

  • Apple launches smart battery cases for its 2018 iPhone range

    Apple launches smart battery cases for its 2018 iPhone range

    Apple today launched new smart battery cases for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. Priced at $129, these new smart battery cases are designed to offer extra battery life to iPhone users. They feature a similar design compared to battery cases offered for the iPhone 7, sporting a bump in the back which houses the battery pack.

    Available in Black and White color options, each battery case offers different battery life depending upon the iPhone model. For instance, the iPhone XS battery case is rated to deliver up to 33 hours of talk time, up to 25 hours of video playback, and 21 hours of internet use.

    On the other hand, the iPhone XS Max smart battery case, when paired with the iPhone XS Max churns out 37 hours of talk time, 25 hours of video playback, and up to 20 hours of internet use. Finally, the smart battery case for the iPhone XR offers up to 39 hours of talk time, up to 27 hours of video playback, and up to 22 hours of internet use.

    iPhone XR smart battery case

     Compatible with Qi-certified wireless chargers

    Besides, these new smart battery cases support Qi-wireless charging unlike the battery case for the iPhone 7. They also support Lighting accessories such as EarPods and Lighting Connector. Besides, these new smart battery cases display battery status on the iPhone’s lock screen and in the Notification Center giving users an idea about their handset’s battery.

  • Apple to launch three new iPhone models in 2019: Report

    Apple to launch three new iPhone models in 2019: Report

    Apple reportedly plans to release three new iPhone models in 2019. These will include the successor to the iPhone XR, while the other two will also be direct successors to the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max.

    According to a report by Wall Street Journal, Apple plans to stick with last year’s trend and launch three iPhone models this year as well. All three models will be direct successors to the current-gen iPhone lineup.

    However, the report notes that top-end iPhone model will feature a triple rear camera setup, while the other will have dual rear cameras. The report further adds that the company will stick with LCD screens for the iPhone XR successor.

    However, come 2020, the report notes that Apple plans to ditch LCD panels entirely. Apart from this, not much is known about Apple’s future plans, but they better be good as current iPhone models aren’t selling like hot cakes like past iPhone models. For one, we can blame the atrocious price tag. Besides, customers still prefer older iPhone models in several markets.

    Over the past few months, key sources have also claimed that Apple has had to cut down production orders for its 2018 iPhone lineup due to sluggish demand. Sale of iPhone units falling short of expectations has always been rumored shortly after their official release in September 2018. Apple CEO, Tim Cook, also admitted they have had a severe blow because of weakening sales in China, which has traditionally been one of the biggest overseas market of Apple iPhone after the US.

  • Amazon overtakes Microsoft and Apple to become the most valuable company

    Amazon overtakes Microsoft and Apple to become the most valuable company

    Amazon has now become the world’s most valuable company, as it manages to surpass Microsoft, who has enjoyed the top spot since November last year. According to a report by BBC, Amazon has become worth $810 billion, while Microsoft is now valued at $789 billion. The duo are followed by Google’s parent company Alphabet at $752 billion, while Apple is now valued at $702 billion.

    The report further notes that Microsoft overtook Apple in late 2018, while Amazon edged past the iPhone-maker in December to take the runner-up spot.

    Apple, the once most valued company in the world, keeps going down. Last year, the Cupertino giant became the world’s first trillion dollar company. However, the company has been on a steady decline over the past 6 months.

    Now, this is primarily because of low sales of its most popular product – the iPhone. Apple’s latest iPhone-lineup, which was supposed help the company get back at the top, is selling well below expectations. This led to a decline in the value of Apple’s shares. However, CEO Tim Cook asserts Apple is still well positioned in the market as a leader.

    “I’m never surprised by the market, to be honest with you, because I think the market is quite emotional in the short term. We sort of look through all of that. We think about the long term. And so when I look at the long-term health of the company, it has never been better. The product pipeline has never been better. The ecosystem has never been stronger. The services are on a tear,” Cook said in an interview with CNBC.

    Meanwhile, Amazon has enjoyed a constant growth since early 2017. The company’s Founder, Jeff Bezos, also became the richest person in the world last year at a net worth of $150 billion.

  • Netflix snubs iTunes for new user subscriptions

    Netflix snubs iTunes for new user subscriptions

    Netflix is no longer allowing users to subscribe to the streaming service via iTunes, the streaming giant has officially confirmed. The move will reportedly save the company over $250 million a year, and is going to cost Apple in excess of $250 million a year. With this change, new Netflix users with an iOS device will be required to subscribe for the service by directly visiting their official website.

    “We no longer support iTunes as a method of payment for new members. Existing members, however, can continue to use iTunes as a method of payment,” ,” a Netflix spokesperson told VentureBeat.

    Apple typically gets a 15 percent share if users pay for an app via the App store. While this may not sound a lot, but if you have thousands of users and subscribers worldwide, this small interest amounts to a lot of money.

    It’s also worth noting that active users who’ve subcribed for Netflix through iTunes are not affected by this move. They can carry on using the service as they’ve been until now. It’s only new users, or someone who wants to reactivate their account will have to do so via the official Netflix website.

    Netflix did the same thing with Google Play. Back in May, the company stopped allowing users to pay for the service via the Play Store. Interestingly, it’s not just Netflix who’s trying to avoid fees from Apple and Google.

    Fortnite Developer Epic Games, has now launched its own dedicated store for PC and Mac users to avoid taxes from Apple. Besides, even music streaming service Spotify has ditched Apple. The music streaming giant now wants users to sign up for the service directly through Spotify, rather through iTunes or the AppStore to avoid fees Apple charges on subscriptions purchased through iOS.

  • iPhone XS Max allegedly catches fire in the US

    iPhone XS Max allegedly catches fire in the US

    A man from the United States claims his iPhone XS Max caught fire while kept in the back of his pocket. Josh Hillard from Ohio says the smartphone felt hot and then started emitting smoke. At the time of the incident, he was with his colleague in the break room when the phone caught fire out if the blue. He then quickly ran out to take his pants off, and another colleauge had to use a fire extinguisher to put out the flame.

    “Left no other option, I had to exit the room since there was a female in the break room with me and remove my pants. I ran to the boardroom where I got my shoes and pants off as fast as possible. A VP of our company put the fire out with a fire extinguisher because he heard me yelling,” said Hillard.

    Following the alleged incident, he went to the Apple Store to narrate the whole debacle and find out what kind of compensation would he receive. However, the victim was only offered a new phone, despite him asking further compensation for his burnt clothes and slight skin burns. Not satisfied by the response, Josh then tried to get in touch with Apple Care over the phone, but to no avail.

    Victim says replacement iPhone XS Max isn’t enough

    Hillard further added that he always showed faith in Apple as a brand, but now he seems to have lost his trust in the company as he isn’t satisfied by Apple Care’s. He is now seeking legal action in order to get more compensation.

     

    Smartphones on fire remind us of incidents such as the Galaxy Note 7 debacle. That said, these types of incidents happen rarely as most handsets go though rigorous testing and safety measures. However, we do come across such news once in a while, so readers are advised to make use of authorized accesories and batteries with their smartphones to negate the possibilty of these incidents happening.

  • Next-gen iPhone could pack Sony’s 3D camera sensors

    Next-gen iPhone could pack Sony’s 3D camera sensors

    Smartphone manufacturers have always tried to push the limits with smartphone cameras, but size constraints and other limitations have posed a roadblock for manufacturers.  However, that could all change with the next-gen iPhone, as key sources suggest that Apple plans to equip the iPhone 11 with 3D sensing cameras.

    According to a report by Bloomberg, Sony has increased the production of 3D camera units. The report further notes that Apple has shown keen interest in Sony’s next-generation camera sensors. These sensors will power both the front and rear facing cameras, and Sony plans to setup mass production of 3D sensors by next year to meet demand, the report adds.

    The news comes directly from head of Sony’s sensor division, Satoshi Yoshihara, who stated during an interview with Bloomberg that 3D sensors business could have a major impact on Sony’s Q1 earnings next year.

    Sony’s 3D camera uses a technology called TOF (time of flight), which essentially emits invisible laser beams and measures in how much they take to come back. This technology can be used to make advanced 3D models of objects, which can be used in augmented reality games as well as apps.

    “Cameras revolutionized phones, and based on what I’ve seen, I have the same expectation for 3D. The pace will vary by field, but we’re definitely going to see adoption of 3D. I’m certain of it,” said Yoshihara in an interview with Bloomberg.

    He also demonstrated a few examples of 3D camera sensors using a custom phone. In one app, the phone was able to calculate a room’s depth, while in another it allowed users to make hand gestures to cast magic spells in a virtual game.

    Sony hasn’t revealed specifically which companies are eager to buy its 3D sensors, but Bloomberg suggests Apple is among them. This certainly make sense and lines up with earlier reports as well, which indicated Apple’s plans to invest heavily in augmented reality (AR).

  • iPad Mini 5 case allegedly leaked

    iPad Mini 5 case allegedly leaked

    An alleged case leak of the upcoming iPad Mini 5 is doing rounds on the web. Spotted on Slashleaks, the leaked case gives us an idea of how Apple’s next-generation iPad might look like.

    Going by the alleged leak, the case shows a vertical camera cutout, implying that the iPad Mini 5 might feature a similar camera layout as the iPad Pro with a rear flash. The back of the case also shows a microphone cutout in the centre.

    Moving on, we can see cutouts for the speakers at the top and bottom suggesting four speakers onboard the upcoming iPad Mini 5. Besides, there seems to be a cutout for the headphone jack at the bottom. Elsewhere, we can see a cutout at the side, which suggests the upcoming iPad Mini might feature a Smart Connector to support Smart Keyboard, just like the iPad Pro.

    Apart from this, the case leak doesn’t reveal any further details. Besides, we aren’t even sure whether this case is actually designed for the next-generation iPad Mini 5.

    That said, the rumor mill suggests that Apple is indeeding working on the iPad Mini 5. However, not much has been revealed about the new fetaures coming to the 7.9-inch tablet. There might be, though, a slim chance that the iPad Mini 5 could also support the older Apple Pencil, much-like like the 6th gen iPad.

    With the release of the large iPhones, it was predicted that the iPad mini would eventually phase out. The growing popularity of larger screens has apparently made small-sized tablets less attractive for users.

    However, the iPad Mini is an exception. It still enjoys a popularity among users and is selling well. And in the past, the iPad Mini served the purpose of bridging the gap between Apple’s small iPhones and large-sized iPads.

  • After China, Apple could face iPhone sales ban in Germany

    After China, Apple could face iPhone sales ban in Germany

    After China, a German court has now ruled that all iPhone models since the iPhone 5s are infringing upon a Qualcomm patent. A sales ban will be imposed on Apple if the company does not appeal the German court’s ruling.

    According to a report by Reuetrs, Qualcomm is seeking a ban on iPhone models that run Intel chips. The court ruled that iPhones which feature a combination of chips from Intel and Apple supplier Qorvo infringe upon one of Qualcomm’s patents related to envelope tracking, a feature which essentially allows smartphones to save battery while sending and receiving wireless signals.

    The judge ruled that Apple should stop selling all iPhones models that run Intel modems in Germany. In response to the court’s ruling, Apple, as expected, retaliated with a fierce reponse.

    “Qualcomm’s campaign is a desperate attempt to distract from the real issues between our companies. Their tactics, in the courts and in their everyday business, are harming innovation and harming consumers. Qualcomm insists on charging exorbitant fees based on work they didn’t do, and they are being investigated by governments all around the world for their behavior. We are of course disappointed by this verdict, and we plan to appeal,” said Apple in a statement for CNBC.

    Apple and Qualcomm are engaged in a similar legal battle in China. A Chinese court issued a ban on iPhone sales in the country for violating Qualcomm patents. Apple was found to be infringing upon two patents as per the Chinese court’s ruling. These include a patent for changing and reformatting the size and appearance of photographs, and one for managing apps when viewing, navigating and dismissing apps using a touchscreen.

  • Qualcomm now pursuing ban on iPhone XS and iPhone XR

    Qualcomm now pursuing ban on iPhone XS and iPhone XR

    The legal spat between Apple and Qualcomm goes on. Last week, a Chinese court issued an order to ban sales of all iPhone models in the country since the iPhone 6s upto the iPhone X. Now, it appears Qualcomm is seeking a ban on the newly launched iPhone XS and iPhone XR as well.

    In an interview with Bloomberg, Qualcomm’s general counsel Don Rosenberg stated that the only reason why the newly launched iPhone range were not impacted by the court’s ruling, is because they weren’t launched at the time of the appeal.

    “It affects older iPhones. It affects the iPhone 6s right through the X, and the only reason it doesn’t apply at the moment to the later devices is because when we brought the suit they didn’t exist. The new models will be coming very soon. We are already in the process of seeking an order covering the new models as well,” said Rosenberg.

    To recall, a Chinese court issued a ban on iPhone sales in the country for violating Qualcomm patents. Apple was found to be infringing upon two patents as per the Chinese court’s ruling. These include a patent for changing and reformatting the size and appearance of photographs, and one for managing apps when viewing, navigating and dismissing apps using a touchscreen.

    Apple still selling iPhones in China

    Following the court’s ruling, Apple announced it would address the issue with an iOS update, which began rolling out on Monday. However, Qualcomm says that Apple should take the court order seriously and stop selling iPhones in China.

    “It should’ve been taken a bite and it should take a bite of Apple sales right now in China. The order requires them to stop selling, stop offering for sale, and stop importing any devices between these model numbers I suggested,” further added Rosenberg.

    Despite the court’s ruling, Apple is still selling iPhone models in China. The Cupertino-based company says that the latest iOS 12.1.2 update addresses the alleged patent violations.

  • iOS 12.1.2 update starts rolling out, fixes the eSIM bug

    iOS 12.1.2 update starts rolling out, fixes the eSIM bug

    Apple starts rolling out the new iOS 12.1.2 update for compatible iPhones. The latest iOS update is primarily aimed at fixing the eSIM activation bug for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and the iPhone XR.

    To recall, eSIM functionality first arrived with iOS 12.1. All major carriers in the US such as Verizon, T Mobile, as well as AT&T are now supporting this feature. Apart from addressing issues with eSIM activation, the update also fixes an issue that could impact cellular connectivity in Turkey for Apple’s 2018 iPhone line-up.

    According to Apple’s release notes:

    iOS 12.1.2 includes bug fixes for your iPhone. This update includes:

    • Fixes bugs with eSIM activation for iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max
    • Addresses an issue that could affect cellular connectivity in Turkey for iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max

    The latest iOS 12.1.2 update could also include software tweaks for the Chinese market to negate Qualcomm’s patents. A court recently issued a ban on iPhone sales in China as Apple was found to infringe on two of Qualcomm’s patents. These include a patent for changing and reformatting the size and appearance of photographs, and one for managing apps when viewing, navigating and dismissing apps using a touchscreen.

    However, Apple said it would roll out an iOS update specifically to neutralize the ban imposed on iPhone sales in China. The Cupertino giant also added that the update will directly address patent violation claims made by Qualcomm.

    How to download iOS 12.1.2 on your iPhone

    To download the latest update, just head over to the Settings Menu. To check the update, go to Settings> General> Software Update. As with all iOS updates, iOS 12.1.2 is available as an over-the-air update and is free to download.

  • Apple Music finally arrives on Amazon Echo speakers

    Apple Music finally arrives on Amazon Echo speakers

    Apple Music support has finally arrived on Amazon Echo spekaers in the United States via the Alexa app on Android and iOS. Users can now sync their Apple Music account with Echo speakers via the Alexa app and enjoy Apple’s streaming service using Alexa voice control. The iPhone-maker’s streaming service now joins the likes of Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio, as well as Amazon’s own music service on Alexa devices.

    Apple Music subscribers can set the service as their default music service on Alexa. Now, this essentially lets you play songs directly via Apple’s music service without having to tell Alexa which service to use every time.

    There are some HomePod feaures that Apple Music misses on Alexa. That said, the integration of Apple’s music streaming service with Alexa is a great addition for Echo users. They can control playback on Alexa, and even play Apple Music on speaker groups created using the Alexa app. Besides, users can also set alarms to music on Echo speakers.

    For now, Apple’s music streaming service is only supported by Echo speakers, therefore, you cannot control the service with Alexa on speakers like Sonos, even if they offer support for the iPhone-maker’s service.

    To recall , Amazon recently signed a new deal with Apple to sell Cupertino’s latest products such as iPhone XS and iPhone XR via its online store. That said, Amazon will not sell Apple’s HomePod speaker through its ecommerce store, as it directly competes with Amazon’s own smart speakers. Not to mention, Amazon also doesn’t sell Google’s Home devices on its platform.

    Have you tried Apple Music with your Amazon Echo speakers yet? Do let us know in the comments below

  • Apple plans to release iOS update to evade iPhone ban in China

    Apple plans to release iOS update to evade iPhone ban in China

    Apple plans to roll out an iOS update specifically to evade the ban imposed on iPhone sales in China. The Cupertino giant announced that the update directly addresses patent violations claim made by Qualcomm.

    Earlier this week, a Chinese court issued a ban on sale of all iPhone models in the country, since the iPhone 6s. The court found Apple to be infringing upon two separate Qualcomm patents.

    However, Apple says it won’t stop selling iPhones in China despite the alleged patent violation. The Cupertino giant claims that such patent-infringement claims are only limited to older versions of iOS, and the latest iOS update no longer breaches these patent claims.

    Apple is now reporteldy planning to roll out a software update next week, and it appears iPhones running older versions of iOS may be specifically targeted by the new update.

    “Based on the iPhone models we offer today in China, we believe we are in compliance. Early next week we will deliver a software update for iPhone users in China addressing the minor functionality of the two patents at issue in the case,” Apple said in a statement to Reuters.

    Specific details about the update remain slim for now, however, Apple is likley to reveal more information by next week when it rolls out the update.

    As per the ruling by Chinese court, iPhone models that breach Qualcomm patents include the iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and the iPhone 6s. That said, Qualcomm suggests it’s looking into more such patent infringement claims on the new iPhone Xs and iPhone Xr.

    The legal spat between Apple and Qualcomm goes on. And from the looks of it, we aren’t going to see the two tech giants come to a mutual agreement.