Exciting leaks about the iPhone 18 Pro camera, the iPhone 5s gets a "kiss of life" with a new update after 13 years, Nvidia dethrones Apple as the "largest customer" of electronic chips, a teardown of the new AirTag 2 reveals hidden changes, Google launches a discounted Gemini subscription plan, blood pressure alerts are supported in new countries, and other exciting news on the sidelines…
The iPad turns 16: The story of the device that changed the concept of the laptop
On January 27, 2010, Steve Jobs unveiled the first iPad, presenting it as a “magical” device designed to bridge the gap between smartphones and laptops, offering an unprecedented internet browsing and entertainment experience at competitive prices. The device was a resounding success, selling millions of units in its first year and establishing an entirely new category in the world of technology that transformed how we interact with digital content.
The first generation featured a large 9.7-inch touchscreen, an Apple-designed processor, up to 64GB of storage, and a battery that lasted up to 10 hours. Starting at $499, the iPad allowed people to browse the internet, read ebooks, watch videos, and use apps more easily and enjoyably—a device that Jobs described at the time as “magical and revolutionary.”
Initially, reactions were mixed; while many admired the device's lightness and ease of use, others questioned its necessity compared to a laptop. However, the numbers quickly settled the debate, with over 300 units sold on launch day and a million units in just one month. By the end of 2010, iPad sales had surpassed 15 million units, establishing it as a cornerstone of Apple's product line.
Over the years, the iPad has evolved into more than just a screen for reading and watching, expanding its family to include diverse models like the Pro, Air, and Mini, each with features to suit everyone. Today, thanks to its support for accessories like the Apple Pencil and keyboard, the iPad has become a powerful productivity and creative tool, one of Apple's most important products.
Samsung challenges the iPhone with a new foldable device
Samsung is preparing to compete with the anticipated foldable iPhone by producing one million units of its new Wide Fold phone, which boasts specifications and screen dimensions very similar to Apple's planned offerings. This device aims to provide a tablet-like user experience when unfolded, making it a direct and strong competitor to Apple's upcoming phone in both form and function.
Samsung is expected to launch its device in July as a preemptive move ahead of Apple's anticipated September announcement, in an attempt to maintain its leading position in the foldable phone market. Competition is expected to be fierce, with analysts predicting that Apple's new device will generate massive sales, prompting Samsung to act quickly to secure its market share before it's too late.
A test reveals the inaccuracy of "ChatGPT" in analyzing health data.
A recent experiment revealed alarming results when ChatGPT was linked to Apple Watch health data. The AI provided inaccurate and frightening medical assessments to perfectly healthy users, demonstrating its current unsuitability for providing reliable medical advice. Doctors warned against relying on these random analyses, as the bot was found to give contradictory results for the same person and omit crucial data, potentially causing either unwarranted anxiety or a false sense of security. While the developer maintains that it is still in the testing phase to improve the service, experts strongly advise against replacing a doctor's opinion with these digital tools at this time.
iPhone 5s gets a "kiss of life" with a new update after 13 years
In a remarkable move that underscores Apple's commitment to supporting its products for as long as possible, the company released a surprise update for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6, nearly 13 years after their initial launch. This exceptional support demonstrates to users that their older devices remain a priority for the company, far exceeding the typical support periods in the smartphone world.
This new update focuses on refreshing essential technical files to ensure the continued functionality of vital services like the Messages app and FaceTime, which were at risk of ceasing operations entirely by 2027 without this fix. Therefore, if you still use one of these classic phones or keep it as a backup device, installing this update is crucial to ensure your phone remains functional and operational for years to come.
Meta plans to launch paid subscriptions with exclusive benefits for Facebook and Instagram.
Meta plans to test a new paid subscription system for Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, offering users exclusive features while keeping regular use completely free. These anticipated features include privacy controls, such as the ability to view stories without the owner's knowledge or see which of your friends don't follow you. The company aims to provide users with more flexible options for managing their accounts and enhancing their social experience.
These subscriptions will also focus on providing advanced AI tools to help content creators edit and create videos in creative and easy ways. This approach is similar to what competing apps like Snapchat have offered, which has already succeeded in attracting millions of subscribers to its paid services. Meta is currently testing various feature packages to determine what the audience prefers before officially launching the service.
Google Chrome gets smarter with the help of “Gemini” and automated browsing features
Google has released significant updates to its Chrome browser that make browsing the internet easier. Gemini is now always available in a sidebar, allowing you to multitask and easily edit photos without leaving your page. The updates also include a smart "Auto Browsing" feature that can handle complex tasks for you, such as booking travel or shopping online, while respecting your budget and protecting your passwords. These new features aim to save you time and effort with a browser that understands your needs and remembers your preferences to provide tailored assistance.
The developer of the “Halide” app joins Apple's design team.
Sebastian de Wieth, co-founder of the popular photography app Halide, has announced his return to Apple's design team to contribute to the development of user interfaces for products like the iPhone. This move strengthens Apple's team with valuable creative expertise at a time when the company's design department is undergoing management changes aimed at improving its operations. Simultaneously, his former company announced the release of a new and improved beta version of its popular camera app.
Important warning for users of beta versions on iPhones and iPads
We advise users of the latest iPhones and iPads to wait a little while before installing the latest beta update, as it has temporarily disabled some important device connectivity and sharing features. This includes the ability to mirror your phone screen to a TV or use your camera wirelessly with a computer, which may disrupt your daily experience. Apple is expected to fix these issues very soon before releasing the official update to all users in the coming period.
Apple is imposing new fees on Patreon, but there's a simple way to avoid them.
Apple has decided to implement a new payment system requiring content creators on the Patreon platform to pay a commission of up to 30% when using the iPhone app, with a deadline of next year for compliance. This change may force creators to raise their in-app subscription prices to cover these costs, unless they choose to absorb them themselves. Fortunately, users can easily avoid these fees and potential increases by paying and subscribing directly through the Patreon website instead of using the app.
Apple makes video and music production easier with new artificial intelligence.
Apple has released powerful updates to its professional software, Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro, powered by smart technologies that make video and audio editing faster than ever. The new features allow users to search within videos simply by describing a scene or using keywords, and provide music tools that automatically play instruments and distribute beats to help creators easily bring their ideas to life.
iPad users also gained exclusive touch-enabled features, such as quick shot arrangement tools and the ability to create professional-looking edits with less effort. These enhancements are available to all users, through direct purchase or subscription, ensuring a seamless and advanced production experience for both professionals and amateurs.
A teardown of the new AirTag 2 reveals hidden changes.
A detailed examination of the new AirTag 2 tracking device revealed significant internal improvements, despite its external appearance being identical to the previous generation and using the same conventional battery type. The most notable change lies in the redesigned internal components. The circuit board is now thinner, and the speaker and magnet are more firmly attached with additional adhesives, making it more durable and less difficult to disassemble or tamper with.
In terms of performance, the alert tone is now slightly higher in pitch to make it easier to hear and distinguish when searching for your belongings using your iPhone. The product packaging has also been redesigned, featuring a sleek new look with a more paper-based design for easier opening, and the devices inside the box are arranged in a single row instead of the previous double row.
Nvidia dethrones Apple as the "biggest customer" of electronic chips
Nvidia has overtaken Apple as TSMC's largest customer for the first time, thanks to unprecedented global demand for artificial intelligence technologies. Reports indicate that Nvidia will pay TSMC billions more dollars than Apple this year, making its advanced chips the new engine of the company's profits and technological development.
This radical shift stems from the complex and expensive nature of Nvidia's chips, which power AI servers, compared to Apple's smaller processors designed for personal devices like iPhones and iPads. While Apple remains a major customer, this change means the future of the chip industry is now being shaped by the needs of AI and its rapid advancements, rather than solely by the smartphone market.
Important updates for older iPhones
Users of older iPhones and iPads recently encountered a strange problem: Apple suddenly halted new updates for these devices, updates primarily designed to ensure the continued functionality of services like Messages and Emergency Calls. This pause prevented users from installing the updates, even though notifications appeared, causing some confusion among those still relying on these classic devices.
It later emerged that the issue might have been related to a technical glitch affecting the telecommunications network in some countries, prompting the company to withdraw the updates to ensure their safety. The good news is that Apple has resolved the problem and made most of these updates available for download again, so you can now safely update your devices to ensure they function properly for years to come.
Exciting leaks about the camera of the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro
Recent tech reports reveal that Apple is currently testing revolutionary imaging technologies for the iPhone 18 Pro, including a smart lens that controls light levels and an additional tool to enhance zoom capabilities. These new features aim to significantly improve video and photo quality, enabling users to capture their moments with stunning clarity even in challenging lighting conditions.
However, these additions are still undergoing engineering testing to ensure their durability and effectiveness before being included in the final version of the phone. Apple typically follows a rigorous testing policy, meaning it may decide to modify or postpone these features if they don't meet the required quality standards before the expected launch date.
Tim Cook comments on the events in Minneapolis and delivers a moving message to employees.
Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic events in Minneapolis, sending an internal message to his employees urging calm and emphasizing the need to respect the inherent dignity of all people without discrimination. In his message, he affirmed that the true values of a society are demonstrated by treating all people with kindness and respect, regardless of their background, and stressed the company's complete solidarity with the affected families and communities.
Cook also revealed that he had a private conversation with the US president to discuss these developments and share his perspective, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue during such challenging times. Despite criticism regarding the timing of his public appearances coinciding with these events, he continues his efforts to exert a positive influence by maintaining effective communication channels with decision-makers.
Miscellaneous news
WhatsApp has introduced an additional security feature designed to protect users who may face serious digital threats, similar to the enhanced Sandbox mode on iPhones. When activated, this feature automatically tightens privacy settings to prevent strangers from sending potentially harmful files or adding you to groups without your permission, while also hiding your personal data from anyone not on your contact list. This step acts as an extra firewall, ensuring your account remains secure against sophisticated spying or hacking attempts.
Apple has announced support for high blood pressure notifications in new countries, including Turkey and Brazil. The Apple Watch uses its sensors to detect the likelihood of developing high blood pressure within the next 30 days and alerts the user to monitor their condition medically. The feature is available through the Health app on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 2 Ultra, and later models.
Despite the global shortage of memory chips and a price increase that could reach 25% by 2026, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that Apple will aim to maintain the starting price of the iPhone 18 without raising it, by absorbing some of the increased component costs. Apple sees the market turmoil as an opportunity to strengthen its position, as it can secure a stable memory supply thanks to its bargaining power, even if profit margins are temporarily affected. This will be offset later through services and increased market share.
Google has launched a new, low-cost subscription plan for its AI services, priced at $7.99. This plan allows users in 35 countries to access the advanced capabilities of Gemini and enjoy additional storage space that can be shared with family. Offering a more affordable alternative to its premium plans, the plan includes tools for writing and video creation, and offers a 50% discount for the first few months for new subscribers. Existing Premium subscribers will also automatically receive these features at no extra cost.
Anthropic has released a new update for its smart assistant, Cloud, that allows you to use popular apps like Slack and Canva and manage your projects directly from within the chat window without having to leave it. This feature aims to save you time and keep you focused by integrating design, messaging, and teamwork tools into a single interface, enabling you to accomplish complex tasks more quickly and easily. These advanced capabilities are currently available to paid subscribers via the web and Mac app, making the digital work experience smoother and more efficient.
Apple is working on a new setting in iOS 26.3 that reduces the precise location that carriers can access. Instead of a precise location, the carrier will only know the neighborhood or general area, thus enhancing the privacy of iPhone users. This feature is only available on select devices supported by certain carriers and does not affect network quality or location tracking in emergencies, nor does it change how location is shared with apps. The option can be easily enabled in the phone's settings, and the update is currently available in beta and will be officially released in the coming weeks.
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