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Tag: iPhone

  • AT&T working on a 2-in-1 portable charger for iPhone and Apple Watch

    AT&T working on a 2-in-1 portable charger for iPhone and Apple Watch

    It appears AT&T plans to join the lucrative and ever-growing wireless charger accessory market. As according to an FCC filing, the carrier is allegedly working on a 2-in-1 iPhone and Apple Watch charger that also houses a 3000mAh battery for charging on-the-move.

    The filing also reveals the name of this accessory, which AT&T calls the Power Drum Wireless charger and Apple Watch Power Bank. Not to mention, it’ll also work with any smartphone that supports the Qi wireless charging standard.

    power drum

    Going by the the diagram shown in the filing, the top of the Power Drum serves as Qi charging pad for your iPhone or any Qi-compatible smartphone. Besides, the device integrates Apple Watch charger on the front. The hardware supports output of up to 10W, though it can be dialed back to 7.5W for iPhones.

    You can find the complete documentation of the Power Drum below:

    • Made for: Apple Watch Series 3, Apple Watch Series 2, Apple Watch Series 1, Apple Watch (1st generation)
    • 2-in-1 portable charger, charges an Apple Watch and Qi-enabled wireless device simultaneously
    • 3000mAh capacity battery
    • Built-in magnetic charging module for Apple Watch
    • LED charge indicators
    • Input: Micro USB
    • Output: up to 10W on select wireless charging devices and up to 5W on Apple Watch

    As we can see in the documentation above, it does not mention support for the Apple Watch 4. That said, it’s highly unlikely the accessory won’t support the latest Apple Watch. It only implies that AT&T began working on the Power Drum nearly a year ago.

    As far as pricing goes, the documnetaion suggests the Power Drum will set you back by $99.99. However, there’s no mention when the carrier will start shipping the device. We’ll update you as soon as we hear anything new. Until then, keep checking back for more.

  • 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).

  • 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.

  • 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 files an appeal to reverse iPhone ban in China

    Apple files an appeal to reverse iPhone ban in China

    Apple has filed an appeal with a Chinese court to reverse the ban imposed on all iPhone models in the country since the iPhone 6s. The ban is essentially a part of the ongoing legal battle between Qualcomm and Apple.

    “Qualcomm’s effort to ban our products is another desperate move by a company whose illegal practices are under investigation by regulators around the world,” Apple said in a statement to CNBC.

    While Qualcomm stated in a press release that a Chinese court has issued two preliminary injunctions against Apple subsidiaries in the country. As per the order, Apple is supposed to halt ‘sale and offers for sale in China of the iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X’.

    “Apple continues to benefit from our intellectual property while refusing to compensate us. These Court orders are further confirmation of the strength of Qualcomm’s vast patent portfolio. The injunctions require Apple to immediately stop infringing on two Qualcomm patents,” said Don Rosenberg, executive vice president and general counsel, Qualcomm Incorporated.

    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.

    Despite the court’s order, Apple insists it’ll keep selling iPhones in China. The Cupertino giant says it did not violate these patents and the ban goes beyond the scope of the two injunctions.

    “All iPhone models remain available for our customers in China. Qualcomm is asserting three patents they had never raised before, including one which has already been invalidated. We will pursue all our legal options through the courts,” said Apple.

    Apple and Qualcomm have been engaged in a rather fierce legal battle for the past few years. Both tech giants have sued each other in various courts in several countries across the globe.

  • iPhone users complain of a bug in iOS 12.1.1

    iPhone users complain of a bug in iOS 12.1.1

    The re-released iOS 12.1.1 update has a bug which adversely affects mobile data for a number of users. According to a report by Forbes, the iPhone-maker apparently knew about the bug before its commercial rollout. The report further adds that mobile data doesn’t work properly on iPhones after updating to iOS 12.1.1, and causes several other issues with their device.

    Some users suggest they can browse the web with Safari, however they can’t access the web while using other apps. Others suggest that a Wi-Fi connecton is required to access the web no matter whether they use the browser, or other apps installed on their iPhones. The issue affects all iPhone models irrespective of the country.

    For now, Apple hasn’t yet rolled out a fix for the bug. Users who are facing this issue are currently advised to get in touch with Apple Support.

    Interestingly, it appears Apple had knowledge about the bug before releasing the update. As several beta testers reported the issue on Twitter while iOS 12.1.1 update was undergoing beta testing. Besides, the official Apple account on Twitter also engaged in the discussion and asked affected users for further details.

    Now, this essentially suggests Apple knew iOS 12.1.1 update could affect cellular data connectivity before re-releasing the update for everyone. The company is yet to acknowledge the issue, so we’re not sure as to when a fix for the bug will roll out. There’s also a possibilty users might have to wait until the next iOS update for the fix to arrive.

    Are you facing data connectivity issues with your iPhone after updating to iOS 12.1.1. Let us know in the comments below.

  • Apple’s next iPhone will look much like the iPhone Xs, says analyst

    Apple’s next iPhone will look much like the iPhone Xs, says analyst

    It appears we can’t expect the next iPhone range to look much different from the current lineup.  As according to Nomuar analyst Anna Lee, Apple’s 2019-iPhone lineup won’t be much of a change from the current lineup. Now, this essentially implies that the next iPhone’s design will remain largely similar to the current iPhone XS.

    “We think the three new iPhones in 2H19F will likely have the same form factors (body size and displays) as the 2H18 iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max, with some added AR [augmented reality]-related features,” said the analyst.

    Apple is widely expected to launch three iPhone models next year as well, a 5.8-inch model, a plus sized Max model, along with a 6.1-inch LCD model.

    “We think 2019 could be the last year the iPhone uses the iPhone X design architecture, in preparation for initial hardware specs for 5G (sub-6GHz) and AR (augmented reality), before greater architecture upgrades in 2020F for 5G and a more comprehensive AR system,”, the analyst further added.

    Besides, the analyst also notes there’s a good chance iPhone sales would shrink even further during the next fiscal year. The analyst estimates 204 million iPhone units sales is fiscal year 2019, while it’s expected to drop in fiscal year 2020 to 200 million units.

    Apple has already cut production orders for this year’s iPhone lineup. Reports indicate that iPhone XR orders have been massively reduced, by upto 30 percent.  Although, iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max have not witnessed such reduced orders.

    Apple’s decision to reduce production orders comes as a result of lower than anticipated demand for new iPhone models as well as overall shrinking of the smartphone-market. Reports further cite that weak demand in China is another reason for cutting down production of newly launched iPhone models.

  • Apple won’t launch a 5G iPhone before 2020

    Apple won’t launch a 5G iPhone before 2020

    Apple reportedly won’t launch a 5G compatible iPhone before 2020. According to a report by Bloomberg, Apple will likely adopt next generation 5G cellular connectivity by 2020. Notably, this report falls in line with earlier leaks and rumors which pointed that the first iPhone with 5G support won’t release before 2020.

    The report cites multiple sources familiar with Apple’s plans, adding that Intel will most likley provide the 5G modems, which was also indicated by earlier reports. Sources suggest that Apple plans to use Intel’s 8161 5G modem chip, however it won’t use Intel’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chips for the 2020 model.

    Besides, given the ongoing legal spat between Apple and Qualcomm, the iPhone-maker will likely rely on Intel to provide 5G modems for its future iPhones. That said, if this report turns out to be true, Apple will fall behind its Android rivals who are most likely to introduce 5G -equipped smartphones by next year.

    Samsung and Huawei have already invested heavily in 5G and are likely to introduce smartphones with 5G support by 2019. That said, Apple was also slower in adopting 4G connectivity compared to other smartphone manufacturers.

    However, it turned out to be a good decision for the iPhone-maker. As Apple waited for 4G LTE technology to mature compared to other major brands who forced themselves to install 4G components on their handsets – essentially impacting both size and battery life. Though we can’t say the same thing might happen when 5G cellular connectivity starts rolling out.

  • Company claims its software allows anyone to bypass iPhone passcode

    Company claims its software allows anyone to bypass iPhone passcode

    Hacking into iPhones is always a hot topic, and now a company called DriveSavers claims that anyone can hack into an iPhone using its software, even if it’s guarded by a long passcode. The company which specializes in data recovery services, touts that its software has a success rate of 100 percent.

    “Utilizing new technology, we have a 100% success rate with unlocking and recovering data from passcode-protected smartphones of every make, model and operating system with any length passcode, including phones and tablets with more complicated passcodes of six digits or more,” explains DriveSafe.

    For now, it’s unclear how the company’s software allows anyone to easily hack into an iPhone, despite being passcode protected. Interestingly, DriveSavers says this service is offered to consumers at a very affordable price. The company says customers can get in touch with the them for more information about pricing and other details.

    That said, the company also has safety protocols so that its services aren’t misused. DriveSavers says its software won’t unlock an iPhone if you aren’t the owner. In fact, it runs a detailed background check to make sure only the owner of an iPhone is able to unlock the device using its software.

    “We attempt to validate the legal right to access the data during all phases of the recovery process. This starts with the information gathered during the intake process. We also have a legal authorization form requiring specific information identifying the right to the data,” the company says.

    Though, it’s still unclear right now how the software works. Besides, one can’t even be sure whether the solution has a 100 percent rate of success.

    Apple is yet to provide an official statement regarding the matter, though there’s a high possibilty the company is already looking into this software to avoid potential misuse and exploits. Hence, we won’t be surpised if Apple rolls out a patch for the same in the next iOS update.

    DriveSavers also claims its software can hack into Android smartphones as well, such as handsets from BlackBerry, LG, Samsung, as well as Windows PCs.