Tag: IOS

  • Here’s why you should think twice before buying the Apple iPhone 15

    Here’s why you should think twice before buying the Apple iPhone 15

    In 2023, Apple’s iPhone 15 lineup presents consumers with a challenging decision. Despite Apple’s claims of the iPhone 15 being a “significant leap,” the improvements over the iPhone 14 are subtle, and the iPhone 14 itself closely resembled the iPhone 13. 

    With a $200 (PKR 59,300), price difference between the iPhone 15 and the iPhone 15 Pro, recommending the base iPhone 15 becomes a tough call. Here’s why:

    Display difference

    The iPhone 15 features a slightly updated display with a dynamic island cutout and improved brightness. However, the core display remains unchanged—it’s a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen with the same resolution and a standard 60 Hz refresh rate. 

    This becomes a noteworthy drawback when compared to the 15 Pro’s impressive 120Hz LTPO OLED display, which also retains the exclusive Always-On Display (AOD) feature. Additionally, the 15 Pro sports slimmer bezels, enhancing its overall sleekness compared to the vanilla 15.

    Performance gap

    Under the hood, the iPhone 15 is powered by the A16 chipset, which is an evolutionary update over the A15 found in the previous two generations. It includes a 6-core CPU (2 performance and 4 efficiency cores), a 5-core GPU, and a 16-core neural engine. While it’s manufactured using a more advanced 4nm process compared to the older 5nm A15 in the iPhone 14, real-world performance gains, as seen in last year’s iPhone 14 Pro, are subtle at best.

    On the flip side, the 15 Pro introduces the groundbreaking 3nm Apple A17 Pro chip, a first in the market. It promises a 10% boost in CPU performance and a 20% improvement in GPU capabilities. Apple also aims to enhance gaming on the 15 Pro series with titles like Resident Evil Village and Assassin’s Creed Mirage, benefiting from hardware-accelerated Ray Tracing.

    RAM matters

    Notably, there’s a 2GB RAM difference between the base iPhone 15 and the Pro models. The iPhone 15 is equipped with 6GB of RAM, while the 15 Pro boasts 8GB. This discrepancy should result in better long-term support and multitasking capabilities for the Pro models.

    While the iPhone 15 enjoys a 48MP main camera sensor upgrade, the best camera features are reserved for the Pro models. The 15 Pro features a larger 48MP main sensor with advanced features like pre-binned pixels, a wider aperture, and superior stabilization. It also exclusively supports ProRAW image capture, maximising the sensor’s potential with Apple’s computational photography enhancements.

    Furthermore, the 15 Pro includes a telephoto module with 3x optical zoom, a feature missing from the vanilla iPhone 15. The Pro also offers versatile digital zoom modes for portrait shots, with the option to choose a default focal length. Selfies on the 15 Pro benefit from OIS on the 12 MP front-facing camera.

    Advanced capabilities

    The new A17 chip equips the 15 Pro models to capture impressive 4K 60fps video in ProRes RAW, along with support for the ACES colour profile and 3D spatial videos, enhancing compatibility with the Vision Pro headset.

    USB-C speed disparity

    Both models embrace USB-C, but the base iPhone 15 disappointingly retains USB 2.0 speeds, offering a maximum transfer rate of 480 Mbit/s. In contrast, the 15 Pro features a USB Type-C 3.0 connector, delivering speeds of up to 10 Gbps, more than 20 times faster. 

    This becomes particularly significant for transferring large video files and shooting 4K 60 fps ProRes videos directly onto an external SSD, a valuable addition for videographers. However, it’s worth noting that Apple supplies USB 2.0 Type-C cables with all new iPhone 15 models.

    If price plays a pivotal role in your decision, you can still opt for the iPhone 13, available from Apple at a reduced starting price of $599.

  • WhatsApp now lets users share videos in HD resolution

    WhatsApp now lets users share videos in HD resolution

    Shortly after introducing support for high-definition photos, Meta’s messaging app, WhatsApp, has now incorporated the capability for users to send videos in high-definition resolution as well. This enhancement has been made available to both iOS and Android users.

    Much like the previously launched high-definition photos feature, the inclusion of high-definition videos empowers users with the option to share videos in superior quality through WhatsApp. 

    Prior to this update, videos of high-definition quality would undergo compression, limiting them to 480p resolution. With the recent update, users are now afforded the choice to transmit videos in high-definition, although this is restricted to a maximum resolution of 720p.

    The process for sharing high-definition videos mirrors that of sharing high-definition photos. Upon selecting the desired video or videos for sharing, users will encounter a newly integrated HD button positioned atop the screen. Subsequently, a dialogue box will emerge, affording the user the decision to opt for Standard Quality or HD Quality. This dialogue box also provides insight into the associated file sizes. The sharing procedure is then finalized by selecting the “send” option, consistent with standard sharing practices.

    It is noteworthy that all images and videos exchanged on WhatsApp remain safeguarded through the company’s robust end-to-end encryption protocols. 

    According to Meta, this feature is currently being rolled out, indicating that users who have yet to access it will likely do so in the coming days.

  • WhatsApp introduces high-quality video sharing and enhanced profile icons in latest update

    WhatsApp introduces high-quality video sharing and enhanced profile icons in latest update

    WhatsApp is introducing two exciting features in its latest version update. The first feature allows iOS users to send high-quality videos, similar to the previous HD photos feature.

    When a user sends a photo or video using this new feature, a tag is added to the message bubble to indicate that it is of high quality. Previously, this feature was automatically applied to photos, but now it is also available for videos after users update to the latest WhatsApp beta version on iOS.

    The new high-quality video feature is not the same as sharing videos in their original quality, as there is still some light compression applied. Nonetheless, it ensures a better quality compared to the standard option. To use this feature, users must select the high-quality option every time they send a video, as the default remains as “standard quality.”

    Once the high-quality video is sent, it will be marked as such in the chat bubble, making it easy for recipients to identify that it was sent in better quality. However, this feature does not apply to videos shared via status updates on WhatsApp.

    The second feature being introduced is related to group chats. WhatsApp is enhancing profile icons within group chats, specifically for contacts whose profile pictures are hidden or unavailable.

    Now, instead of showing a blank thumbnail, the updated version will display the initials of the respective group member’s name. This way, other participants in the conversation can quickly identify the person represented by the thumbnail.

    Currently, these features are available on the TestFlight app and will soon be rolled out to more users. It’s worth noting that further updates may be needed, as there are some discrepancies in the text descriptions related to videos, but these are expected to be resolved in future updates.

  • Silence unknown callers: WhatsApp introduces solution to spam and scam calls

    Silence unknown callers: WhatsApp introduces solution to spam and scam calls

    WhatsApp, the messaging app owned by Meta, has introduced two new updates for its Android and iOS users. These updates offer enhanced privacy and control over incoming calls, as well as improved options for protecting user information.

    One of the updates is the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature, which automatically screens out unwanted calls from unknown or suspicious numbers. It helps users avoid spam, scams, and calls from people they don’t know. Instead of ringing on the phone, these calls will be listed in the call log, allowing users to check them later in case they are from important contacts. To enable this feature, users can go to their WhatsApp account privacy settings and select the “Silence Unknown Callers” option in the calls section.

    The second update is the “Privacy Checkup” feature, which assists users in navigating and configuring important privacy settings. By taking users through a step-by-step process, it helps them understand and choose the appropriate level of protection for their messages, calls, and personal information. By accessing the Privacy settings and selecting “Start checkup,” users can explore various privacy options and strengthen the security of their WhatsApp account.

    WhatsApp has taken innovative measures to spread awareness about these updates on a global scale. Emphasising the significance of secure communication, the app encourages users to connect with friends and family through private messaging, where they can freely express themselves. These updates aim to provide a safer and more private experience for WhatsApp users.

  • YouTube Music finally adds real-time lyrics in collaboration with MusixMatch

    YouTube Music finally adds real-time lyrics in collaboration with MusixMatch

    YouTube Music has finally introduced an automatic real-time tracking feature for lyrics, catching up with competitors Spotify and Apple Music. Previously, lyrics were only available on Google’s streaming platform in a basic manual format.

    Now, any song with uploaded lyrics on YouTube Music will feature the new real-time tracking feature, which highlights lyrics as they are sung and enlarges the text size within the Lyrics tab of the app. The development of this feature was a collaboration between Google and MusixMatch, with LyricFind also contributing to real-time lyrics tracking.

    MusixMatch is also responsible for providing lyrics on Spotify, including in languages other than English. Although the feature has not been officially released yet, screenshots of the new feature have been seen on Android and iOS. Some Android users have even claimed to have already accessed the feature via app version 5.51.50.

    It seems that the feature is gradually being rolled out to different regions, so it’s recommended to keep your YouTube Music app up to date to ensure you don’t miss out. However, it’s worth noting that some regions may have to wait longer than others to get the new feature.

  • WhatsApp to replace phone numbers with usernames for identifying unknown contacts in group chats

    WhatsApp to replace phone numbers with usernames for identifying unknown contacts in group chats

    According to WaBetaInfo, the Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp is developing a new feature that will simplify the identification of messages received from unknown contacts in WhatsApp group chats.

    The latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.5.12 update has been released by the instant messaging app, which enhances the functionality introduced in December 2022 by swapping numbers with push names in the message bubble of group chats.

    As per the report, a push name will be shown every time a user receives a message from an unknown contact in a group chat, rather than the mobile number, in the chat list. This change makes it easier for the recipient to recognize who the unknown contact is without having to save the number as a new contact.

    This is particularly useful in large group chats where identifying unknown group members can be difficult. The push name may even appear instead of the phone number in different sections of the app, such as the group participants list.

    The new feature has also been made available to some iOS beta testers after installing the WhatsApp beta for iOS 23.5.0.73 update. The report notes that the new feature is currently accessible to some beta testers who install the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Play Store, and it is anticipated to be made available to even more users in the coming days.

  • Apple may allow third-party app stores on iOS to make the iPhone more open

    Apple may allow third-party app stores on iOS to make the iPhone more open

    To meet EU standards outlined in the Digital Markets and Services Act, Apple intends significant improvements to iOS and other services.

    According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple will redesign its platform to “open up key elements,” allowing users of the iPhone and iPad to download applications from third party app stores and websites.

    Only the 27 European Union member states are expected to experience the changes, which would pave the way for a potential expansion of the services to other areas.

    As corporations have time until 2024 to completely comply with the Digital Markets Act, plans for the changes are probably going to launch with iOS 17 in 2023. The implementation also includes adding new web browsing engines to iPhones and iPads as well as expanding access to the NFC chip, camera, Find My Network, and AirTag.

    Gurman noted that even if developers choose not to make their apps available through the App Store, Apple still intends to charge them.

    Both the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act aim to enhance privacy protection, foster fair competition, and do away with some intrusive targeted advertising. The first act, which is meant to provide improved interoperability with less significant competing services, is where Apple’s activities mostly come under.

    Let’s say Cupertino chooses not to follow the regulation when it becomes effective on January 1, 2024. In that situation, regulators may impose a penalty equal to 10 per cent of the entire global turnover, up to 20 per cent for recurrent infractions.

  • Twitter Blue will reportedly cost $11 for iPhone users instead of $7.99

    Twitter Blue will reportedly cost $11 for iPhone users instead of $7.99

    Twitter plans to increase the pricing of its Twitter Blue subscription product to $11 from $7.99 if paid for through its iPhone app and to $7 if paid for on the website.

    According to The Information, the move was likely in response to Apple’s 30 per cent cut on any payments made by users via apps on the iOS operating system.

    According to the report, the lower cost on the website was also likely to encourage more customers to join up there rather than on their iPhones. If prices will also change for the Android OS was not mentioned.

    Musk, who gained ownership of Twitter in October, is going to roll out the micro-blogging site’s verified service with different coloured checks for individuals, companies, and governments after a bungled initial launch led to a surge in users impersonating celebrities and brands on the website.

    Requests for comment from Twitter, Apple, and Google—which owns the Android operating system—were not immediately responded to.

    Musk cited a number of issues with Apple in a series of tweets last week, including the 30 per cent fee the iPhone manufacturer charges software developers for in-app purchases.

    Additionally, he posted a meme that said he would be prepared to “go to war” with Apple rather than pay the commission.

    Musk later met Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, at the company’s offices. Musk then tweeted that the misunderstanding regarding Twitter’s removal from Apple’s app store had been cleared up.

  • Apple is reportedly considering transferring some of its iPad production to India

    Apple is reportedly considering transferring some of its iPad production to India

    According to two sources close to the Indian government, India is looking into ways to transfer some of Apple’s iPad production from China. The tech behemoth is reportedly in constant communication with authorities. Although no specific plans have been established, if the initiative is successful, Apple’s presence in the country would expand.

    Apple said earlier this year that it has started producing the premium iPhone 14 in southern India. For a number of years, the tech giant has produced the country’s older iPhone models.

    Following nationwide protests that have taken place over the past two weeks in response to Beijing’s tough zero-Covid policy, the tech giant has announced plans to diversify more of its supply chain away from China. Apple issued a warning in early November that iPhone shipments will be delayed as a result of the Chinese government’s lockdowns, and experts have been lowering their expectations for the important holiday shopping period.

    Over the weekend, The Wall Street Journal claimed that Apple is aggressively exploring to move production out of China to other Asian nations, including Vietnam and India.

    Even so, sources warn that similar ambitions in India could be slowed down by a shortage of highly skilled workers and people with experience in creating complicated products like the iPad. The backdrop of foreign policy, with rising hostilities between China and India, is particularly unhelpful. Due to recent territorial disputes between the two nations, the military presence near the China-India border has increased.

    10 per cent of Apple iPhones, according to Gene Munster of Loop Ventures, are produced in India, but he anticipates a gradual increase in output.

    “I think in five years, 35 per cent will be manufactured in India,” added Munster. “I think Apple will add iPhone production to other countries outside of India and China in the next five years. Perhaps Vietnam, Malaysia and the USA.” In a note to clients, Piper Jaffray’s Harsh Kumar wrote: “While Apple has made efforts to move production out of China, in our opinion, India still accounts for less than 5.”

  • WhatsApp will soon let you use same number on separate phones

    WhatsApp will soon let you use same number on separate phones

    WhatsApp is actively testing ‘companion mode’ to let users use the same number on separate phones.

    According to reports, it will be possible for users to simultaneously connect up to four devices.

    Only tablet users were first given access to the companion mode as a test. For the time being, only WhatsApp beta users will be able to use the companion mode, which is exclusively accessible to select android users.

    Users who download WhatsApp will see an option to scan a QR code to link their phone number to another device. The menu may be accessed by tapping the three dots in the window’s top right corner.

    Prior to this, on November 3, the messaging behemoth WhatsApp formally unveiled its new communities and discussion groups feature.

    According to the information, this new function was trialled in the beginning of the current year. Organizations, clubs, and a variety of other groups will be able to connect in a better and more structured way thanks to the new discussion group function.

    WhatsApp has released a number of changes and announcements, including support for groups with up to 1,024 participants, 32-person video and audio conversations, emoji reactions, polls, greater file sharing, end-to-end encryption, and the option for admins to remove messages.