Tag: Apple

  • iOS 17 leak: Customisable Lock Screen and revamped Control Center to be featured in new update

    iOS 17 leak: Customisable Lock Screen and revamped Control Center to be featured in new update

    As the date for Apple’s WWDC23 event draws near, speculation about what to expect from the company’s upcoming software releases is growing. While little has been confirmed, it is widely anticipated that iOS will take centre stage once again, with iOS 17 making its debut alongside updates for iPadOS and macOS.

    Setsuna Digital, a source that has accurately leaked information in the past, has recently shared some early insights into iOS 17 via Weibo. It is important to note, however, that while the information may be accurate at present, software plans are fluid and subject to change.

    According to Setsuna Digital, iOS 17 will feature some minor but interesting updates. For instance, there will be changes to the flashlight toggle, allowing for more granular control over brightness. Users will also enjoy more options for customising the Lock Screen, including font size and the use of emoji wallpaper, as well as the ability to share custom configurations.

    There will also be changes to Apple Music, with the app moving towards a more graphics-led interface and the possible addition of on-screen lyrics on the Lock Screen. Finally, it seems likely that users will be able to customise and organise the App Library.

    While some had predicted a major overhaul of the operating system, the company’s focus on developing a mixed-reality headset may mean that iOS 17 will instead focus on quality-of-life improvements. One such change could be the introduction of sideloading, which would allow users to install apps outside of the App Store.

    Another potential change is a revamped Control Center, which has been a staple feature for iPhone users for several years. While the details of any updates are unknown at present, even small changes such as the ability to customise shortcuts would be welcome.

    Until Apple officially announces its plans, however, it remains to be seen what iOS 17 will actually entail.

  • Apple may cut off iPhone X and older iPad models from iOS 17 compatibility list

    Apple may cut off iPhone X and older iPad models from iOS 17 compatibility list

    According to French tech website iPhoneSoft, Apple’s upcoming operating system iPadOS 17 will no longer support the first-generation 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models, as well as the fifth-generation iPad. This news corroborates earlier reports from a source with a reliable track record for predicting upcoming software updates. If the information is accurate, only the following devices will be compatible with iPadOS 17 when it is released in the fall: iPad Pro (2017 and later), iPad Air (third generation and later), iPad (sixth generation and later), and iPad mini (fifth generation and later).

    It’s important to note, however, that being on Apple’s compatibility list doesn’t guarantee that the device will fully support all features of the software. For instance, iOS 15 is compatible with all devices that can run iOS 14, but not all features will be available on older iPhones.

    In terms of iPhone compatibility, there are conflicting reports. The same source that leaked information about the iPad models that will be dropped from iPadOS 17 claimed that iOS 17 will also drop support for the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. However, another anonymous leaker, who has shared accurate information in the past, disputed this claim. According to this second source, all iPhones that support iOS 16 will also support iOS 17, including devices powered by A11 chipsets like the iPhone X and iPhone 8/8 Plus.

    Last year, iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 discontinued support for several devices, including the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, original iPhone SE, final iPod touch, second-generation iPad Air, and fourth-generation iPad mini. Apple is expected to announce iOS 17 during its WWDC keynote on June 5th.

  • Major camera upgrade: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max expected to debut with larger IMX903 sensor

    Major camera upgrade: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max expected to debut with larger IMX903 sensor

    Apple has finally upgraded the main camera on its iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max models from a 12 MP to a 48 MP sensor. Reports suggest that Apple will continue this trend with the iPhone 15 Pro models, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max receiving an even bigger sensor.

    According to leaker Ice Universe, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is expected to debut later this year with a new 48 MP sensor, the IMX903, which is an improvement on the IMX803 used in the iPhone 14 Pro models. The IMX903 is predicted to be a 1/1.14-inch sensor, which is larger than the 1/1.28-inch IMX803.

    Additionally, leakers are promoting hardware-level 14-bit DNG RAW capture. However, it appears that Apple may revert to the days when the Pro Max model had a superior camera to the Pro one.

    All available information suggests that the IMX903 will be exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, while the iPhone 15 Pro will retain the IMX803 from its predecessors.

  • Apple CEO Tim Cook to meet India’s PM Modi during store opening

    Apple CEO Tim Cook to meet India’s PM Modi during store opening

    Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, is scheduled to meet India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and the country’s deputy IT minister as part of his visit to inaugurate the tech giant’s first retail store in India.

    Cook’s visit to Mumbai and New Delhi to open the first official company-owned outlets in the country highlights Apple’s growing interest in India, despite only having a 3 per cent market share.

    The company has been expanding iPhone assembly through contract manufacturers and increasing its exports. Cook will meet Modi on Wednesday in New Delhi, and he is also expected to meet India’s deputy IT minister, Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

    Apple and the IT ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment, while Modi’s office declined to comment. Cook’s meetings with Indian officials come as Apple focuses more on India, which is the world’s second-largest smartphone market.

    According to data from the India Cellular and Electronics Association, iPhones accounted for more than 50 per cent of the $9 billion worth of smartphones exported from India between April 2022 and February 2023.

    On Monday, Apple opened its first store in Mumbai, but only for a private event where bloggers and tech analysts reviewed the store layout and design. The Mumbai store is located in the Reliance Jio World Drive mall, which is home to luxury clothing and jewellery brands like Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and Swarovski. It is 20,800 square feet, far larger than the planned Delhi outlet, according to local registration documents.

    Apple has sold its products in India through resellers or e-commerce websites such as Amazon. The Mumbai store will open to the public from Tuesday, while a second store will be inaugurated inside a New Delhi mall on Thursday.

    In India, iPhones are assembled by three of Apple’s contract manufacturers – Foxconn, Wistron Corp, and Pegatron Corp. Apple plans to assemble iPads and AirPods in India as well.

  • iPhone 15 to feature A17 chip and rounded design, but with limited USB-C compatibility: Leaks

    iPhone 15 to feature A17 chip and rounded design, but with limited USB-C compatibility: Leaks

    An insider source known as ShrimpApplePro has revealed some information about Apple’s upcoming iPhone 15 models. The new phones will feature a faster performance, a more rounded design, and a higher price point. However, the most requested feature – USB-C compatibility – will come with a disappointing catch.

    Apple will be locking down the USB-C port on all iPhone 15 models, a move that contradicts their previous actions of introducing USB-C to iPads and MacBooks without limitations.

    USB-C is an open standard, and this news will be a surprise and disappointment to many Apple fans and industry experts. Apple’s official licensing program for accessories, MFi, requires manufacturers to comply with Apple’s standards by installing an authenticator chip on ports. This can limit or disable the accessory completely, and unlicensed accessories are often less expensive than those with MFi certification.

    Many people believe that profit is the primary reason why iPhones have not switched to USB-C. Despite an EU clampdown on proprietary ports, it seems that Apple has decided to manipulate the standard, which is a setback. USB-C would allow iPhones to have faster charging and data transfer speeds, and leaks suggest that iPhone 15 Pro models will deliver over 40x faster performance. However, it seems that these benefits will only be available through MFi-approved accessories, which is not ideal for those who already have a drawer full of USB-C cables.

    Foxconn has already started producing MFi-licensed accessories, including Apple’s own EarPods and cables, according to ShrimpApplePro. While iPhone enthusiasts may not view this news as a dealbreaker, it is likely not the way industry experts and EU lawmakers expected USB-C to be implemented by the world’s largest smartphone maker.

    Apple’s iPhone 15 range is expected to launch in September with a higher price point, a more rounded design, new chassis materials and colors, solid-state buttons, next-gen WiFi, and a 3nm A17 chipset.

  • Here’s how to pay PTA approval fees in installments with 0% markup

    Bank Alfalah’s e-marketplace, Alfa Mall, has recently launched a new service that offers interest-free installments for Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) approvals on some of the most popular and expensive smartphones. The smartphones that qualify for this service include the Samsung Galaxy S22, S22 Ultra, iPhone 13, and all iPhone 14 series phones.

    According to the Alfa Mall website, the total PTA charges for these phones range between Rs130,000 to Rs190,000, which can be paid in 3 to 6 monthly installments with 0 per cent markup. The process is simple: customers need to select an installment plan, enter their CNIC number, and also provide the IMEI code of their phone.

    It is important to note that the PTA approval process may take up to 3 to 5 working days, and customers will be notified of their approval through a confirmation call from the merchant.

    With this new service, Alfa Mall aims to provide customers with a more affordable and convenient way to purchase high-end smartphones without the burden of upfront payment for PTA approvals.

    You can visit this link for more details: How to pay PTA fees in installments

  • New iPhone 15 Pro design leaks unveiled: USB-C port and titanium chassis

    New iPhone 15 Pro design leaks unveiled: USB-C port and titanium chassis

    Recent leaks of the New iPhone 15 Pro CAD have unveiled significant design changes from Apple’s previous generations. The most discussed upgrade has now been revealed through photographic evidence.

    Apple insider, Unknownz21, has shared a close-up image of what they claim to be the USB-C port on the iPhone 15 Pro, without the need for any imagination or rendering. Unknownz21 has a proven track record, having sourced an early version of iOS 14 months ahead of release.

    Aside from the USB-C port, the photo also reveals an unfinished brushed material on the phone that looks similar to titanium, indicating a possible replacement for the stainless steel chassis on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. Additionally, the images display curvier edges, as previously leaked in recent iPhone 15 Pro renders.

    However, there is some bad news regarding the implementation of USB-C. It is expected that the performance of USB-C will differ significantly between the iPhone 15 Pro and standard models. Furthermore, Apple is rumored to include an authenticator chip that would control the use of USB-C ports. As seen with Lightning, this would require third-party cables and accessories to pass Apple’s MFi certification program, which could limit their performance or even prevent them from working altogether. This could result in additional costs for manufacturers and customers.

    Despite these potential drawbacks, 2023 is expected to be a significant year in the evolution of the iPhone. Apple is introducing changes to the chassis, display, ports, and buttons, as well as a new pricing structure that will differentiate between iPhone Pro and standard models. If you have been waiting to upgrade your iPhone, this could be the year to do so.

  • Next-generation Apple Watch may feature a built-in camera

    Next-generation Apple Watch may feature a built-in camera

    Recently, information about Apple’s plans for its smartwatches has emerged from a leaked patent application. The patent reveals that Apple has given significant thought to incorporating a camera into its Apple Watch.

    The company has been granted a patent (US-11571048-B1) for a strap release mechanism for the Apple Watch, which could be used in conjunction with a built-in camera. This discovery, made by Patently Apple, describes a strap comprised of two segments and a “nest” section that facilitates the removal of the watch from the strap. This mechanism opens up new possibilities for the utilization of the Apple Watch, including the ability to capture photos with a built-in camera.

    The patent filing includes visual depictions of utilizing the camera feature on the strap-less Apple Watch, as well as a cross-section of the device that showcases a bottom-facing camera and its field of view. The user can take a picture by simply removing the watch, holding the camera section, and capturing the photo.

    Apple has a history of exploring camera-related patent designs for its Apple Watch. In the past, the company was granted a patent for a camera located within the digital crown and another patent from 2019 for a rotatable camera integrated into the end of a strap.

    Apple’s recent patent application is consistent with the company’s ongoing investigation into camera capabilities for the Apple Watch. There is already a similar product, known as the Wristcam, which can be utilized as a third-party accessory for the device.

    It is important to note that the filing of a patent by Apple does not necessarily imply the eventual release of an Apple Watch equipped with a camera. Rather, it serves as evidence of the company’s examination of various conceptual possibilities.

  • Apple reportedly plans to launch a pricier iPhone ‘Ultra’ next year

    Apple reportedly plans to launch a pricier iPhone ‘Ultra’ next year

    Apple has traditionally released four iPhone models annually — Mini, Standard, Pro, and Pro Max. However, last year the Mini was replaced with a Plus model and this lineup is expected to remain the same this year.

    According to a report from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, Apple plans to revamp its lineup in 2024 and introduce an iPhone Ultra, which is said to be a top-of-the-line device more powerful than the Pro Max. This means that the iPhone 16 series will feature this new model from the Cupertino-based company.

    According to recent reports, the highly anticipated iPhone Ultra model will not replace the Pro Max in the current iPhone lineup. Instead, both the Pro Max and the new Ultra model are expected to be part of the next year’s iPhone offerings.

    The iPhone Ultra, rumored to feature a titanium build, offers a distinct selling point in a market dominated by devices built with alternative materials. While the use of titanium is expected to bring a premium feel to the device, it may also result in a higher price point.

    In addition to its superior build, the iPhone Ultra is expected to come equipped with several hardware upgrades, including improved camera capabilities, a faster processing chip, a larger display, and possibly a portless design, eliminating the need for a Lightning or USB-C port. These cutting-edge features position the iPhone Ultra as a standout device in a highly competitive market.

  • First-generation Apple iPhone 2G set to sell for Rs1.36 crore at auction

    First-generation Apple iPhone 2G set to sell for Rs1.36 crore at auction

    Apple fans have the chance to own an original 2007 first-generation iPhone – if they are willing to pay the price.

    According to LCG Auctions, where the item is offered for sale, the original 2007 factory iPhone is likely to fetch an amazing $50,000 or more. It is still sealed and unopened in its factory packaging.

    The iPhone had a 3.5-inch screen, a 2-megapixel camera, and 4 or 8 GB of storage when it was originally manufactured. According to CNN, the initial phone was only offered by AT&T on a 2G network and did not have an app store. Time Magazine awarded it the Invention of the Year for 2007.

    The particular iPhone up for grabs is being consigned by its owner, Karen Green, who was gifted the Apple product when it was first released. In a 2019 appearance on “The Doctor & The Diva,” the proud owner said she was gifted the phone but never opened the package as she was happy with her current device.

    She said she held onto it hoping it would come in handy one day. On the air, her 8 GB phone was appraised at $5,000 by Ph.D. Antiques Appraiser Dr Lori.