Tag: mobile devices

  • Apple resolves iPhone slowdown controversy: Users receive $92.17 settlement

    Apple resolves iPhone slowdown controversy: Users receive $92.17 settlement

    In a resolution to the 2017 controversy surrounding Apple’s deliberate slowing down of iPhones with older batteries, recent reports indicate that affected users are now receiving settlements. 

    According to MacRumors, individuals impacted by this matter are finding deposits of $92.17 in their bank accounts, as confirmed by the website and corroborated by embedded posts from readers. 

    The settlement website, updated in December, indicated that payments were scheduled for this month, effectively bringing closure to the issue.

    The “batterygate” incident originated in 2017 when a developer exposed iOS 10 updates slowing down the performance of older iPhone models like the 6S and 7, with Apple initially withholding the purpose of this slowdown. 

    Subsequently, the company revealed that it aimed to prevent spontaneous shutdowns as the battery degraded. 

    This led to multiple class action lawsuits, alleging that Apple’s actions forced premature phone upgrades rather than allowing users to replace their batteries.

    In 2020, Apple reached a settlement, and by August of that year, legal hurdles were cleared, paving the way for impending payouts. 

    While initially expected to be around $65 for approved claims filed by October 6th, 2020, recent reports suggest the actual payments are higher, averaging $92.17, as reported by The Verge. 

    Noteworthy is the inclusion of the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, 7, 7 Plus, and the original iPhone SE in the list of affected models. If you fall into this category, monitor your bank account for the settlement deposit.

  • Cracked iPhone 15 Pro’s glass? Here’s how much you’ll pay for repairs 

    Cracked iPhone 15 Pro’s glass? Here’s how much you’ll pay for repairs 

    The Apple iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max now boast a more repair-friendly internal design, featuring a redesigned frame that facilitates easy removal of the back glass panel from the devices. This modification initially debuted with the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus last year and has now been extended to this year’s Pro models. 

    At that time, reports indicated that the ability to remove the back glass would likely lead to significantly reduced repair costs for iPhone 15 Pro models with cracked back glass, particularly for customers without AppleCare+ coverage. This information has now been confirmed. 

    As reported by Ian Zelbo, Apple has updated its US website with the repair fees for iPhone 15 models, revealing that it will charge $169 (PKR 51,000) to $199 (PKR 59,000) to repair an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max with back glass damage. In comparison, these fees were set at $499 or $549 for the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro Max. 

    Read more: Top 10 high-paying online jobs for introverts with anxiety

    These lower fees have also been confirmed by 9to5Mac. Customers who have AppleCare+ coverage for their iPhone can have their back glass damaged for just $29 (PKR 8,600). 

    In the US, Apple’s battery replacement fee remains unchanged at $99 for all four iPhone 15 models, consistent with the pricing for the iPhone 14 series. For additional iPhone 15 repair fees, such as for the rear camera or other types of damage, you can visit Apple’s website. 

  • 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.

  • Will iPhone 15 Pro Max in Pakistan surpass the price of a Hyundai SUV in India?

    Will iPhone 15 Pro Max in Pakistan surpass the price of a Hyundai SUV in India?

    The iPhone 15 Pro Max with 256 GB of storage is initially priced at $1,100 in the United States, which, at the current exchange rate of Rs295, translates to approximately Rs325,000 in Pakistani rupee (PKR).

    However, it’s anticipated that the cost will significantly rise in Pakistan due to additional expenses like Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) approval and retailer margins.

    Given the precedent set by the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which currently retails for Rs540,000 in Pakistan, we expect the starting price of the iPhone 15 Pro Max to be around Rs555,000 or possibly even higher once local mobile shop owners import and sell them.

    Apple iPhones generally have higher price tags in Pakistan due to taxes and PTA approval fees, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact cost.

    Nonetheless, it’s reasonable to assume it will exceed Rs500,000, considering that the iPhone 14 Pro Max is already priced above this threshold in Pakistan.

    Additionally, a Pakistani website called Phonebolee suggests an expected price of PKR 643,999 for the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    In terms of comparisons to India, a report by DNA India highlights the astonishing prices of iPhones in Pakistan. It notes that the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, priced over Rs7.3 lakh in Pakistan, surpasses the cost of a Hyundai Exter 5-seater SUV, which is priced at INR 5.99 lakh in India.

    However, it’s important to be cautious about such comparisons, as they might not accurately reflect the actual market dynamics.

    Keep in mind that the exact price of the iPhone 15 Pro Max in Pakistan can vary among different retailers.

    Additionally, the exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the Pakistani rupee is approximately 1 INR to PKR 3.56. So, when comparing the INR 600,000 price of an SUV, it equates to approximately Rs2,136,800, or Rs2.1 million in Pakistani rupees, which is significantly higher than the expected price of the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max.

  • Is Apple considering a massive RAM and storage upgrade for the iPhone 15?

    Is Apple considering a massive RAM and storage upgrade for the iPhone 15?

    In recent months, there has been a flurry of information and speculation regarding the storage and RAM specifications of the forthcoming iPhone 15 Pro. This situation has been marked by conflicting reports.

    MacRumors, a popular source, has recently verified the storage configurations that Apple tested for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which encompass 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB options. Interestingly, Apple has sourced NAND storage components from multiple vendors, including SK Hynix, Western Digital, Kioxia, and Samsung. 

    Despite earlier rumours circulating about a potential 2TB storage variant, there is no substantiated evidence to support its inclusion. Additionally, a Weibo leak that suggested the iPhone 15 Pro would commence with a 256GB storage capacity has proven inaccurate, as the available storage options will align with the tiers seen in the iPhone 14 Pro.

    Turning to the RAM specifications, Apple intends to equip the iPhone 15 Pro with LPDDR5 DRAM, consistent with the RAM utilised in previous flagship devices. Testing has been conducted on two RAM configurations, specifically 6GB and 8GB, sourced from Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix. 

    The final RAM configuration for mass production units remains undisclosed, but it is conceivable that Apple may adjust the RAM based on the storage capacity of the device, potentially granting 8GB to higher-capacity models. 

    TrendForce’s recent report suggests that Apple may indeed opt for 8GB in the iPhone 15 Pro, implying that the 6GB configuration could be abandoned.

    In addition to these internal components, the iPhone 15 Pro is set to feature an upgraded A17 SoC, manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm process. The A17 chip is anticipated to incorporate an extra GPU core, promising enhanced graphics performance. 

    Furthermore, the performance cores are expected to operate at an increased clock speed of 3.70 GHz, a notable improvement over the A16’s 3.46 GHz clock speed.

    Beyond these technical enhancements, the iPhone 15 Pro is poised to introduce several notable features, including an entirely new titanium frame, USB-C connectivity, and the incorporation of a periscope zoom lens in the iPhone 15 Pro Max variant.

  • Apple is not replacing iPhone 15 Pro Max with iPhone 15 Ultra: Leaks

    Apple is not replacing iPhone 15 Pro Max with iPhone 15 Ultra: Leaks

    According to a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s flagship smartphone for this year is expected to be named the iPhone 15 Pro Max rather than the previously speculated iPhone 15 Ultra. The upcoming iPhone lineup will also comprise the standard iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, and iPhone 15 Pro models.

    Gurman had previously hinted at the possibility of Apple using the Ultra branding for its highest-tier iPhone, akin to the Apple Watch Ultra. However, this nomenclature shift is more likely to be reserved for the anticipated iPhone 16 Ultra, featuring a larger 6.9-inch display, slated for next year. 

    For the time being, it seems that the Pro Max branding will persist for at least another year.

    As for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, it is rumoured to introduce several notable enhancements, including an advanced telephoto lens offering up to 6x optical zoom, a substantial upgrade from the 3x limit seen in the iPhone 14 Pro models. 

    Additionally, the device is expected to feature a titanium frame, a customizable action button, a speedier A17 Bionic chip, slimmer bezels, support for Wi-Fi 6E, and more. Pricing for the iPhone 15 Pro Max is rumoured to begin at $1,199 in the United States, marking a $100 increase compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

    Apple is scheduled to unveil its iPhone 15 series during the “Wonderlust” event on Tuesday, September 12, commencing at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage of Apple’s announcements, including on-site reporting from the iconic Steve Jobs Theatre.

  • iPhone 14 owners unhappy as battery health capacity drops to 90% in less than a year

    iPhone 14 owners unhappy as battery health capacity drops to 90% in less than a year

    Some iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro users are facing a familiar issue, similar to the “batterygate” problem of the past. They’re noticing their phones’ battery performance deteriorating faster than expected, even though they’ve only had the phones for less than a year.

    For instance, Sam Kohl from AppleTrack tweeted in July that his iPhone 14 Pro’s battery had already dropped to 90 per cent of its maximum capacity. This is much quicker than his previous iPhones. Many others are sharing similar experiences in the thread.

    Kohl even made a video recently talking about this problem. He finds it hard to recommend the phone, especially because it costs $999.

    According to Apple, iPhone batteries should still have around 80 per cent of their original capacity after 500 full charge cycles. There are rumours that the upcoming iPhone 15 series will have 10–18 per cent larger batteries compared to the current models.

    According to The Verge, other people are also facing similar battery issues. Joanna Stern, a tech columnist, mentioned in a recent newsletter that her iPhone 14 Pro’s battery capacity dropped to 88 per cent. Reports from the Verge community show mixed results, with some iPhone 14 Pros at 93 per cent, 91 per cent, and 97 per cent capacity. In the past, most phones didn’t see this kind of drop until they were at least two years old.

    On top of this, replacing the battery for an iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro after the one-year warranty is more expensive. It used to cost $69, but now it’s $99. However, if you’re up for it, you can try a DIY approach or find a third-party repair shop.

    The battery health monitor for iPhones was added in the same update that allowed users to control performance throttling, which was a big part of the batterygate issue. Apple said this throttling was meant to protect the phones from ageing batteries, and it led to some legal actions.

  • Here’s when Apple will launch the iPhone 15

    Here’s when Apple will launch the iPhone 15

    Tech enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the much-rumoured iPhone 15, as speculations on its features and release date continue to circulate. Apple’s last iPhone 14 lineup has been a hit, and now fans are looking forward to the potential enhancements that the iPhone 15 may bring.

    While Apple has not officially announced the release date for the new iPhones, insiders have revealed that the company plans to unveil the iPhone 15 lineup during the third week of September. Multiple mobile carriers have reportedly instructed employees not to take days off on September 13, hinting at a major smartphone announcement on that day.

    Historically, Apple has held its iPhone events in September, and it appears that this year won’t be an exception. While most past announcements took place on Tuesdays, last year’s iPhone 14 event occurred on a Wednesday, similar to September 13’s potential date.

    If the speculated date holds true, pre-orders for the iPhone 15 are expected to start on September 15, with the official release slated for September 22. However, analysts predict possible delays for some models due to supply chain challenges, as has happened in previous years.

    Rumours have been swirling about the iPhone 15’s design and features. According to 9to5Mac, it’s suggested that the new models will sport slightly curved edges and thinner bezels around the display, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Notably, all four new models are expected to incorporate Dynamic Island and USB-C, replacing the Lightning port.

    For the Pro models, Apple is rumoured to replace the stainless steel frame with a titanium one, adding a touch of elegance and durability. The iPhone 15 and 15 Plus will reportedly be powered by the A16 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 14 Pro, while the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max will feature the new A17 chip, offering improved performance.

    Photography enthusiasts may be delighted to learn that the larger Pro model is expected to come equipped with a new periscope lens for enhanced optical zoom capabilities.

    As for pricing, there’s speculation that the new iPhones could come at a premium. Reports suggest that prices may increase by up to PKR 56,000 ($200) compared to the current generation.

    While Apple enthusiasts are excited about the potential features of the iPhone 15, they will have to wait for the official announcement to confirm the rumours. Until then, anticipation will continue to build as the tech giant prepares for what could be another groundbreaking iPhone launch.

  • Russian officials urged to abandon iPhones over spying concerns

    Russian officials urged to abandon iPhones over spying concerns

    Russian officials have been advised to stop using iPhones due to unverified accusations made by the country’s intelligence service.

    The Financial Times reported that, commencing July 17, employees within Russia’s trade ministry will be prohibited from utilising iPhones during work hours. Other ministries, including one currently undisclosed, are reportedly planning to follow suit, along with the state oil company, Rostec.

    The decision to distance themselves from Apple products initially emerged in March when the Kremlin instructed officials to abandon the use of these devices due to concerns surrounding potential vulnerabilities exploited by US hackers.

    Subsequently, in June, the Russian government accused Apple of collaborating with US intelligence agencies, an allegation firmly refuted by the company.

    The accusation stemmed from a report by a cybersecurity firm, asserting that iPhones running outdated versions of iOS had been infected with malware, rendering them susceptible to eavesdropping, as reported by The Washington Post.

    Despite the claims made by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), no substantiating evidence has been presented, and independent security experts have found no indication that Apple has incorporated any form of “backdoor” exemption into the device’s encryption.

    This is not to imply that no genuine security vulnerabilities exist. Following Russia’s allegations, Apple swiftly responded by releasing software patches for its iOS system, acknowledging the role played by researchers at the Moscow-based Kaspersky Lab in identifying these weaknesses.

    It is worth noting that the ban on official usage will not impact the general public. Apple withdrew from the Russian market in the wake of last year’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Nonetheless, Apple products continue to be imported from other countries.

    The iPhone 14 is listed by MTS, Russia’s largest cellphone provider, with a price tag slightly exceeding $1,200, while a comparable model retails for $999 in the United States.