Tag: iPhone

  • iOS 17 update is here: Try these fun features today 

    iOS 17 update is here: Try these fun features today 

    In June, Apple unveiled its latest iOS update, iOS 17, packed with a multitude of enhancements and changes for the iPhone. Following an extensive three-month beta testing period, this highly anticipated software update is set to hit iPhones, specifically those iPhone XS or newer, on Monday, 18th September. 

    Here, we present an overview of the ten standout features that iOS 17 brings to the iPhone, along with a glimpse of additional forthcoming features. To get your hands on this update, keep an eye out for its release on Monday, accessible via your iPhone’s Settings app under General > Software Update. 

    1. StandBy: Glanceable charging screen 

    Apple introduces StandBy, a new full-screen view tailored for iPhones during charging, especially when placed on a nightstand, kitchen counter, or desk. It features customizable elements like clock styles, calendars, photos, weather forecasts, music controls, widgets, and more. This feature supports Live Activities, Siri, incoming calls, and larger notifications, and is compatible with the iPhone 14 Pro’s always-on display. 

    2. Personalised contact poster 

    iOS 17 empowers users to craft a personalised Contact Poster, visible when they receive an incoming call on someone else’s iPhone. This poster can showcase photos or Memojis, and users can personalise the font and background colours. The feature is accessible in the built-in Phone app and will extend to third-party calling apps. 

    3. NameDrop: Seamless contact sharing 

    NameDrop simplifies contact sharing by allowing users to exchange phone numbers or email addresses by merely bringing their iPhones close together. Additionally, Contact Posters can be shared during this process. 

    4. Live voicemail with real-time transcription 

    Live Voicemail offers real-time transcription on the screen as callers leave voicemails. Users can choose to answer calls while the message is being recorded. Notably, spam calls identified by carriers are instantly declined and not transcribed. 

    5. Inline replies in Messages app 

    In the Messages app, iOS 17 enables users to swipe right on any message for an inline reply, streamlining the conversation experience. 

    6. Interactive widgets for enhanced functionality 

    Interactive widgets are now available across the Home Screen, Lock Screen, and the new StandBy view. These widgets allow actions like marking reminders as completed, controlling media playback, and managing Home app accessories. As third-party apps adopt this feature, the possibilities will expand. 

    7. Advanced language model for word prediction 

    iOS 17 introduces a cutting-edge language model for word prediction, significantly improving autocorrection on iPhones. Users receive inline text recommendations as they type, facilitating quick word or sentence additions by tapping the space bar. 

    8. Enhanced Autocorrection design 

    Autocorrection in iOS 17 briefly underlines corrected words, simplifying the process of reverting changes. The system adapts to users’ typing habits over time, preventing some corrections for a smoother typing experience. 

    9. Offline maps in Apple Maps 

    Apple Maps now matches Google Maps with the ability to download maps for offline use. This feature permits turn-by-turn navigation, estimated arrival times, and finding locations without needing a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. 

    10. Stickers drawer for easy access 

    A new stickers drawer in iOS 17 provides convenient access to all stickers, including Live Stickers, emojis, Memojis, and iMessage sticker packs. Live Stickers can be created by touching and holding objects in photos. 

    11. Effortless Siri activation 

    Apple has simplified Siri activation across various Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, HomePods, and AirPods Pro. Now, instead of saying “Hey Siri,” users can simply say “Siri” to activate the voice assistant and issue multiple consecutive commands without repeating “Siri.” 

    With these exciting features, iOS 17 promises an enhanced and efficient iPhone experience, addressing user needs and preferences. 

  • iPhone 12 sales temporarily stopped in France

    iPhone 12 sales temporarily stopped in France

    This week, Apple revealed the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, however, only a few hours later, France announced a temporary stop on iPhone 12 sales in the country.

    France’s radiation watchdog (ANFR) released a public statement highlighting that iPhone 12 violates radiation levels, bringing this to Apple’s attention and calling for a halt on sales for iPhone 12 and provide a solution.

    “The French National Frequencies Agency (ANFR) is instructing Apple to withdraw the iPhone 12 from the French market as of September 12, 2023, after the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) limit for this model was exceeded,” the French agency wrote in a statement. “ANFR enjoins Apple to implement all available means to rapidly remedy this malfunction. Failing this, Apple will be required to recall any units already sold.”

    According to TechCruch, this is not a big deal for a business as Apple can “roll out a software update to fix the issue”.

    It has been noted that France’s junior minister for telecommunications Jean-Noël Barrot giving an interview to Le Parisien regarding the matter is “interesting”.

    According to Next INpact, it is not new for ANFR to identify a device with a concern regarding radiation levels. It could be that the French minister is “using this opportunity to start a media campaign”.

    Moreover, as TechCrunch highlighted, Apple told Reuters and the AFP that the iPhone 12 has been deemed as compliant by international regulators. Also, it has “independent third-party lab results that show that it complies with all SAR standards around the world. The company plans to both contest the ANFR’s results and engage with the agency to find a way forward.”

  • Arrogance vs innovation: Why BlackBerry failed to see threat posed by the iPhone 

    Arrogance vs innovation: Why BlackBerry failed to see threat posed by the iPhone 

    In 2007, Apple introduced the iPhone, a revolutionary new smartphone that would change the way people use their phones forever. BlackBerry, the dominant smartphone maker at the time, was quick to dismiss the iPhone, saying that it was “not a threat” and that “we’ll be fine.” 

    But BlackBerry was wrong. The iPhone was a huge success, and it quickly took over the market. BlackBerry, on the other hand, began to lose market share. By 2013, BlackBerry was no longer the top smartphone maker. 

    How BlackBerry lost the smartphone war?

    There were a number of reasons why BlackBerry failed to see the threat posed by the iPhone. Here are some of the most important factors: 

    • BlackBerry was too focused on its existing customers: The company’s bread and butter was business users, who were slow to adopt new technologies. The iPhone, on the other hand, was designed for a wider audience, including consumers.
    • Slow to innovate: The iPhone was packed with new features, like a touch screen and a web browser, that BlackBerry didn’t have. BlackBerry was also slow to adopt new operating systems, such as Android. 
    • BlackBerry was arrogant: The company executives believed that they were the best in the business and that they didn’t need to change. This attitude blinded them to the threat posed by the iPhone.

    How iPhones have captured the market now 

    The iPhone has been the best-selling smartphone in the world for many years. In 2022, it accounted for 22 per cent of the global smartphone market. This is followed by Android with 69. per cent market share. 

    There are a number of reasons why iPhones have captured the market: 

    • They are known for their high quality and sleek design. iPhones are made from high-quality materials and have a sleek, modern design. This makes them appealing to consumers who want a stylish and durable smartphone. 
    • iPhones have a user-friendly interface and are easy to use. The iPhone’s operating system, iOS, is known for its intuitive interface and easy-to-use features. This makes it a good choice for people who are not familiar with smartphones. 
    • Offer a wide range of features and apps. The App Store has a wide variety of apps to choose from, including games, productivity apps, and social media apps. This makes the iPhone a versatile device that can be used for a variety of purposes. 
    • Backed by a strong brand name and reputation. Apple is a well-known and respected company, and its products are known for their quality. This gives consumers confidence in the iPhone. 

    Facts about iPhone sales 

    • In 2022, Apple sold over 240 million iPhones. 
    • The iPhone 13 was the best-selling iPhone model in 2022. 
    • Apple iPhone generates more revenue for the tech giant than any other product. 
    • The iPhone is a major driver of Apple’s stock price. 

    Additional thoughts on the matter 

    BlackBerry’s physical keyboard was a major advantage in the early days of smartphones, when touch screens were still relatively new and difficult to use. However, the iPhone’s touch screen was a more intuitive and user-friendly interface, and it eventually won over consumers. 

    The company’s business model was also a factor in its downfall. BlackBerry made most of its money from selling its devices to businesses, which were slow to adopt new technologies. Apple, on the other hand, made most of its money from selling apps and services in its App Store, which was a more open and flexible platform. 

    BlackBerry also made some bad strategic decisions. For example, the company decided to focus on its own proprietary operating system, BlackBerry OS, instead of adopting a more open platform like Android. This decision made it difficult for BlackBerry to attract developers and apps, which further hurt its competitive position. 

    The story of BlackBerry vs. iPhone is a cautionary tale about the dangers of complacency. When a new technology comes along, it’s important to be open to change and to be willing to adapt. Otherwise, you could end up like BlackBerry. 

    BlackBerry’s main focus currently is on software and services. Sadly, the company has discontinued its own smartphone line and now focuses on providing security software and services to businesses and governments.

  • Indian couple sells baby to buy iPhone for Instagram reels

    Indian couple sells baby to buy iPhone for Instagram reels

    An Indian couple has been accused of selling their 8-month-old son in order to purchase an iPhone for creating Instagram reels.

    The couple, residents of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal, were also accused of attempting to sell their seven-year-old daughter. Police have rescued the baby and arrested the mother and the buyer of the infant.

    The father, Jaydev, is believed to be in police custody, despite some conflicting reports suggesting he is still at large. A local councilor has been quoted by Indian media as saying, “After selling the boy, Jaydev also tried to sell the girl on Saturday midnight. We informed the police. Police have arrested Jaydev.”

    Initially, it was reported that the couple had sold the baby to buy alcohol. Locals described frequent episodes of intoxication and quarrels within the family and with neighbors.

    The incident was uncovered on Saturday, July 22, when neighbors noticed the financially struggling couple’s sudden acquisition of an iPhone and the coinciding disappearance of their baby. Initially, the couple claimed the child was with a relative, but suspicions from the neighborhood led to police involvement.

    Upon police interrogation, the mother confessed to selling the baby and using the money to travel around West Bengal, creating Instagram reels. Subsequently, the police managed to rescue the baby from a woman named Priyanka Ghosh in the Khardaha area.

  • YouTuber makes world’s largest 8-foot fully functional iPhone

    YouTuber makes world’s largest 8-foot fully functional iPhone

    In the world of technology, where devices seem to shrink in size while packing in more features, one YouTuber has taken a different approach. Matthew Beem, a popular content creator, recently made headlines by constructing the world’s largest functional iPhone. This colossal device measures a staggering 8 feet, surpassing Apple’s iPhone 14 Pro Max and the previous record holder, YouTuber ZHC’s 6-foot-long creation from 2020.

    Beem’s video documenting the construction of this technological marvel quickly went viral, captivating viewers with its impressive scale and functional capabilities. The video showcased the meticulous process of building the giant iPhone from scratch. From selecting the materials to connecting the components, Beem demonstrated his craftsmanship and passion for technology.

    What sets this mammoth iPhone apart is not only its size but also its functionality. Despite its massive dimensions, the device operates just like a standard iPhone. The touchscreen, a television display, is seamlessly integrated with a Mac mini, enabling smooth navigation and interaction. Additionally, Beem ensured that essential features, such as the lock button, volume controls, and a music button, were incorporated into the design.

    While the giant iPhone presents a remarkable feat of engineering, its sheer size poses a challenge in terms of portability. In the video, Beem humorously showcases how he carried the colossal device using a cart, highlighting the impracticality of its size for everyday use. Nevertheless, the creation stands as a testament to Beem’s ingenuity and dedication to pushing technological boundaries.

    To demonstrate the functionality of his creation, Beem took the enormous iPhone to the bustling streets of New York City. Surrounded by curious onlookers, he captured photos, recorded videos, engaged in gaming sessions, and even effortlessly made payments through Apple Pay. In an impressive display of its capabilities, Beem initiated a FaceTime call with one of his viewers from India, further captivating his audience and showcasing the true potential of this larger-than-life iPhone.

    In an interview, Matthew Beem shared his motivation for undertaking such a monumental project. “I love technology and have a history of making some of the largest builds on YouTube, so I decided to put my skills to the test and build the world’s largest working iPhone! I have never built anything like this before, so this was extremely difficult,” Beem expressed. To add an extra touch of excitement, he revealed, “To top things off, we drove this to New York City to get people’s reactions in Times Square and surprise the top tech reviewer on the planet, Marques Brownlee (MKBHD)!”

    Matthew Beem’s colossal iPhone not only breaks records but also exemplifies the relentless spirit of innovation that drives creators in the digital age. While its practicality may be questionable, its significance lies in pushing the boundaries of what is possible. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it is content creators like Beem who inspire others to think big and imagine the unimaginable.

    With the creation of the world’s largest working iPhone, Matthew Beem has firmly established himself as a visionary in the world of technology. As viewers eagerly await his next awe-inspiring project, one can’t help but wonder what other incredible feats he will achieve and what new possibilities lie ahead in the realm of technological innovation.

  • Kahaan baarish horehi hai? Apple, why are you doing this to us

    Kahaan baarish horehi hai? Apple, why are you doing this to us

    Despite a pleasant first week, this May is not being kind to Lahoris, with the temperature currently at 42°C which has left us without no option but to stay inside with ACs on 24/7.

    But, this is not the case as per the weather App on our iPhones. According to the application, while all of us are burning in this garmi, a thunderstorm is happening. We have just one question. Where are the rainy clouds?

    Social media users have also taken to Twitter to express their frustration.

    https://twitter.com/Xxrishrana/status/1660516708954828802?s=20

    According to a report, a searing heat wave that gripped parts of South Asia in April this year was made at least 30 times more likely by climate change.

    The climate change-fueled heat caused deaths, widespread hospitalizations, damaged roads, sparked fires and led to school closures in the region.

  • Your Future iPhone will clone your voice within 15 minutes

    If you have an iPhone or iPad, you will soon be able to hear it speak in your own voice, Apple announced earlier this week.

    The upcoming feature, “Personal Voice,” will give users randomized text prompts to generate 15 minutes of audio.
    There will be another new tool called “Live Speech” which lets users type in a phrase, and save commonly used ones, for the device to speak during phone and FaceTime calls or in-person conversations.

    Apple says it will use machine learning, a type of AI, to create the voice on the device itself rather than externally so the data can be more secure and private.

    It might sound like a quirky feature at first, but it is actually part of the company’s latest drive for accessibility. Apple pointed to conditions like ALS where people are at risk of losing their ability to speak.

    “At Apple, we have always believed that the best technology is technology built for everyone,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO.
    The new “Personal Voice” feature, expected as part of iOS 17, will let iPhones and iPads generate digital reproductions of the voice of user for in-person conversations and on phone, FaceTime and audio calls.

    Apple said Personal Voice will create a synthesized voice that sounds like a user and can be used to connect with family and friends. The feature is aimed at users who have conditions that can affect their speaking ability over time.

    Users can create their Personal Voice by recording 15 minutes of audio on their device. Apple said the feature will use local machine-learning technology to maximize privacy.

    It’s part of a larger suite of accessibility improvements for iOS devices, including a new Assistive Access feature that helps users with cognitive disabilities, and their caretakers, more easily take advantage of iOS devices.

    Apple also announced another machine learning-backed technology, augmenting its existing Magnifier feature with a new point-and-speak-backed Detection Mode. The new functionality will combine Camera input, LiDAR input, and machine-learning technology to announce the text on the screen.

    Apple typically launches software at WWDC in beta, meaning that the features are first available to developers and to members of the public who want to opt in. Those features will typically remain in beta throughout the summer and launch to the public in the fall when new iPhones hit the market.

    Apple’s 2023 WWDC conference begins June 5. The company is expected to unveil its first virtual reality headset among other software and hardware announcements.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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