Apple Denies Evidence of Hidden Browser Settings to UK Regulator
Apple faces allegations of misleading the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) over a user interface issue in iOS related to changing the default browser, Open Web Advocacy reports.
Earlier this year, reports surfaced accusing Apple of implementing a deceptive design practice in iOS that made it more difficult for users to switch their default browser if Safari was already set as the default. The issue was initially highlighted in March 2024 and was independently verified by multiple sources, including Ars Technica and the CMA. Specifically, the design hid the option to change the default browser when Safari was set as the default, while other browsers like Chrome and Firefox continued to display the option regardless of whether they were the default or not. This behavior was eventually addressed in an iOS update.
Now, in a formal response to the CMA, Apple has denied that this issue ever existed. The company responded to the regulator's inquiry on August 1, 2024, stating that the allegations regarding the hidden option to change the default browser were incorrect. The response read, "This is not correct. The default browser app setting in the Safari tab is clearly visible when the user has set Safari as the default." The statement effectively denies that the behavior reported by the CMA and others had ever been present in iOS, despite the availability of screenshots, videos, and other forms of evidence supporting the claims from media outlets and industry experts.
Tags: Apple Antitrust, United Kingdom
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Samsung Kicks Off New Sale With Major Savings on Monitors, TVs, and More
Samsung is getting ready to kick off a new Discover Samsung sale soon, and today the company has a few early access discounts available to customers. The popular Smart Monitor M80D is being discounted during this sale, but you'll also find sales on storage, audio, TVs, smartphones, and wearable tech.
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$549.99, down from $699.99, which is a second-best price on the monitor. The display retains key features of the previous model, like USB-C charging connectivity, AirPlay 2 support, an integrated webcam, and several smart TV features that enable it to be used when not connected to a PC.
$150 OFF
32-inch Smart Monitor M80D for $549.99
In terms of new features, the M80D includes a Multi Control feature that allows images and text to be moved between the display and a Galaxy Book, Tablet, or Phone. You can also pair Galaxy Buds to the monitor for a spatial audio experience with head tracking, as well as guided workouts when paired with a Galaxy Watch.
Monitors
49-inch Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor - $999.99, down from $1,299.99
34-inch OLED Curved Smart Gaming Monitor - $799.99, down from $1,199.99
49-inch Odyssey OLED G9 Curved Gaming Monitor - $1,099.99, down from $1,799.99
55-inch Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen Curved Gaming Monitor - $1,799.99, down from $2,999.99
57-inch Odyssey Neo G9 Curved Gaming Monitor - $1,599.99, down from $2,499.99
TVs
The Frame TV - Save up to $1,700
70-inch QLED 4K QE1C TV - $989.99, down from $1,799.99
55-inch Neo QLED 4K Smart TV - $1,099.99, down from $1,499.99
55-inch Samsung Neo QLED 4K TV - $1,099.99, down from $1,999.99
65-inch OLED S90C TV - $1,499.99, down from $2,599.99
85-inch Samsung Neo QLED 4K Smart TV - $2,599.99, down from $4,799.99
Galaxy Products
Galaxy Z Fold6 - Save up to $1,500 with trade-in credit
Galaxy Z Flip6 - Save up to $800 with trade-in credit
Galaxy Watch Ultra - Save up to $350
Galaxy Buds3 Pro - Save up to $130
Be sure to visit our full Deals Roundup to shop for even more Apple-related products and accessories.
Related Roundup: Apple Deals
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When to Expect an AirTag 2 to Launch
Apple released the AirTag in April 2021, and the item tracking accessory has not received any hardware updates since then.
Below, we recap rumors about when the second-generation AirTag is expected to be released, as well as potential new features and changes.
Timing
In a report today outlining his expectations for Apple's upcoming iPhone 16 event, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman briefly mentioned that Apple is developing a new AirTag, but he does not expect the accessory to be released until 2025:
A fresh AirTag is also in development, though Apple isn't planning a release until next year either.
He did not provide any additional details about the next AirTag in the report.
until some point in 2025, but he did not provide a reason for the apparent change in plans. Kuo and Gurman are thus in agreement that a new AirTag is not coming until next year.
Features
Gurman previously said the new AirTag would feature an upgraded chip with improved location tracking. If so, the AirTag could be updated with the second-generation Ultra Wideband chip that debuted in all iPhone 15 models last year.
integration with Apple's Vision Pro headset, but he has not shared any specific details.
AirTag 2 guide for more.
Tag: AirTag
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When to Expect an AirTag 2 to Launch
Apple released the AirTag in April 2021, and the item tracking accessory has not received any hardware updates since then.
Below, we recap rumors about when the second-generation AirTag is expected to be released, as well as potential new features and changes.
Timing
In a report today outlining his expectations for Apple's upcoming iPhone 16 event, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman briefly mentioned that Apple is developing a new AirTag, but he does not expect the accessory to be released until 2025:
A fresh AirTag is also in development, though Apple isn't planning a release until next year either.
He did not provide any additional details about the next AirTag in the report.
until some point in 2025, but he did not provide a reason for the apparent change in plans. Kuo and Gurman are thus in agreement that a new AirTag is not coming until next year.
Features
Gurman previously said the new AirTag would feature an upgraded chip with improved location tracking. If so, the AirTag could be updated with the second-generation Ultra Wideband chip that debuted in all iPhone 15 models last year.
integration with Apple's Vision Pro headset, but he has not shared any specific details.
AirTag 2 guide for more.
Tag: AirTag
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iPhone 16 Pro Models Rumored to Support 4K/120 FPS Video Recording, 8K Video Allegedly Tested
The upcoming iPhone 16 Pro models will be able to record 4K video at up to 120 FPS, according to "reliable sources" cited in a 9to5Mac report today. For comparison, all four iPhone 15 models are capable of 4K video recording at up to 60 FPS.
The report adds that Apple has allegedly tested 8K video recording on the iPhone 16 Pro models, but it is unclear if this capability will be enabled. Since an 8K image is around 33 megapixels, the rumored 48-megapixel Main and Ultra Wide cameras on the iPhone 16 Pro models would be capable of 8K video recording, but the 12-megapixel Telephoto camera would not be. With the iPhone 17 Pro Max rumored to gain a 48-megapixel Telephoto camera next year, the report said 8K video recording might debut on that device instead.
In addition, the report said the iPhone's built-in Camera app will finally allow you to pause and resume a singular video recording.
support for a new JPEG-XL image format, the Capture/Camera button supporting third-party apps, and both iPhone 16 Pro models supporting the 5x optical zoom functionality that debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro Max last year.
special event on Monday.
Related Roundup: iPhone 16 Pro
Tag: 9to5Mac
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How Much Will the iPhone 16 Cost?
Apple's next-generation iPhone 16 series is expected to launch on September 20 and will compete in a quickly evolving smartphone market, and with some notable upgrades rumored, the new models could see price changes compared to previous years.
Successive iPhone models always come with new features and hardware upgrades, but Apple typically does not increase the retail prices as a result. However, that could change this year due to an increasingly competitive smartphone market, potential supply chain disruptions, and other global economic challenges.
one report, last year's iPhone 15 models cost more to produce than the previous iPhone 14. For example, iPhone 15 Pro Max is believed to cost Apple $558 to produce, a 12% increase over the iPhone 14 Pro Max model released in 2022.
The other models in the iPhone 15 lineup were also subject to cost increases. The standard iPhone 15's components totaled $423, a 16% increase compared to the iPhone 14. The iPhone 15 Plus is calculated at $442, a 10% increase over its predecessor, while the iPhone 15 Pro grew by 8% to $523.
Apple's bottom line will be impacted if the company continues to absorb the impact of increased production costs. That could see Apple choose to hike the retail prices of this year's iPhone 16 series.
Speculation about a price hike is also due to a bump in hardware components required to support Apple intelligence. Apple is expected to increase the RAM in the standard iPhone 16 models to 8GB, up from 6GB in the previous versions.
increasingly dependent on promotional discounts to move stock, indicating Apple's latest iPhone generation is struggling to achieve the same popularity as previous models in China. Additionally, the design of the iPhone 16 is not expected to change significantly, making it even harder to justify a price increase.
iPhone 16 Pro models in India for the first time as it looks to diversify production beyond China, which could potentially result in cost savings. According to a report by The Economic Times, the iPhone maker is anticipated to reduce production expenses by 10% through manufacturing Pro models in India. However, despite these savings, consumers may not see lower prices, as taxes and component costs could well keep retail prices steady.
We don't know with complete certainty what prices Apple will set for its next-generation iPhone models. But it's worth noting that if the starting price of the standard iPhone 16 model remains unchanged ($799), it will have the same starting price as the iPhone 12, which was released in 2020. That said, Apple could remove certain configuration options so that customers are essentially forced to pay more, as it did with the iPhone 15 Pro Max last year.
Prior to the iPhone 15 release, speculation circulated that the iPhone 15 Pro Max might have a higher starting price of $1,199, up from the iPhone 14 Pro Max's $1,099 base price. This prediction proved partially correct, but for a different reason than expected. Apple didn't raise the price outright – instead, it removed the lowest storage option of 128GB for the Pro Max model. As a result, the iPhone 15 Pro Max now starts at 256GB of storage, priced at $1,199 – the same amount Apple previously charged for the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro Max. So while the price-per-gigabyte remained consistent with the previous generation, the entry price increased.
minimum of 256GB storage, doing away with the 128GB starting option on its smaller Pro model for the first time.
iPhone 16 Launch Month Is Here: Here's Everything We Know
It's Glowtime." For all the details of what we can expect from the four new iPhone 16 models, be sure to check out our dedicated iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro roundups.
Related Roundups: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro
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How Much Will the iPhone 16 Cost?
Apple's next-generation iPhone 16 series is expected to launch on September 20 and will compete in a quickly evolving smartphone market, and with some notable upgrades rumored, the new models could see price changes compared to previous years.
Successive iPhone models always come with new features and hardware upgrades, but Apple typically does not increase the retail prices as a result. However, that could change this year due to an increasingly competitive smartphone market, potential supply chain disruptions, and other global economic challenges.
one report, last year's iPhone 15 models cost more to produce than the previous iPhone 14. For example, iPhone 15 Pro Max is believed to cost Apple $558 to produce, a 12% increase over the iPhone 14 Pro Max model released in 2022.
The other models in the iPhone 15 lineup were also subject to cost increases. The standard iPhone 15's components totaled $423, a 16% increase compared to the iPhone 14. The iPhone 15 Plus is calculated at $442, a 10% increase over its predecessor, while the iPhone 15 Pro grew by 8% to $523.
Apple's bottom line will be impacted if the company continues to absorb the impact of increased production costs. That could see Apple choose to hike the retail prices of this year's iPhone 16 series.
Speculation about a price hike is also due to a bump in hardware components required to support Apple intelligence. Apple is expected to increase the RAM in the standard iPhone 16 models to 8GB, up from 6GB in the previous versions.
increasingly dependent on promotional discounts to move stock, indicating Apple's latest iPhone generation is struggling to achieve the same popularity as previous models in China. Additionally, the design of the iPhone 16 is not expected to change significantly, making it even harder to justify a price increase.
iPhone 16 Pro models in India for the first time as it looks to diversify production beyond China, which could potentially result in cost savings. According to a report by The Economic Times, the iPhone maker is anticipated to reduce production expenses by 10% through manufacturing Pro models in India. However, despite these savings, consumers may not see lower prices, as taxes and component costs could well keep retail prices steady.
We don't know with complete certainty what prices Apple will set for its next-generation iPhone models. But it's worth noting that if the starting price of the standard iPhone 16 model remains unchanged ($799), it will have the same starting price as the iPhone 12, which was released in 2020. That said, Apple could remove certain configuration options so that customers are essentially forced to pay more, as it did with the iPhone 15 Pro Max last year.
Prior to the iPhone 15 release, speculation circulated that the iPhone 15 Pro Max might have a higher starting price of $1,199, up from the iPhone 14 Pro Max's $1,099 base price. This prediction proved partially correct, but for a different reason than expected. Apple didn't raise the price outright – instead, it removed the lowest storage option of 128GB for the Pro Max model. As a result, the iPhone 15 Pro Max now starts at 256GB of storage, priced at $1,199 – the same amount Apple previously charged for the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro Max. So while the price-per-gigabyte remained consistent with the previous generation, the entry price increased.
minimum of 256GB storage, doing away with the 128GB starting option on its smaller Pro model for the first time.
iPhone 16 Launch Month Is Here: Here's Everything We Know
It's Glowtime." For all the details of what we can expect from the four new iPhone 16 models, be sure to check out our dedicated iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro roundups.
Related Roundups: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro
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Gurman: New AirPods Max and Apple TV Unlikely to Be Announced at September Apple Event
New versions of the AirPods Max and Apple TV may not debut at Apple's upcoming "It's Glowtime" event, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman today suggested.
In a report detailing some final expectations for the September 9 Apple event, Gurman said that the company is still working on a new version of the AirPods Max with new color options and a USB-C port instead of Lightning. This product refresh has been rumored for some time, but with plenty of AirPods Max inventory still in stock, Gurman suggested that the new model may not arrive until later.
earlier this year. With no sign of the new model and stable inventory of the current model, Gurman says that "a new version isn't on the immediate horizon."
not expected to feature the H2 chip introduced in September 2022 or features like Adaptive Audio. Gurman previously said that the changes are expected to be so minor that the refreshed device will still be considered to be first-generation AirPods Max.
faster processor than the current A15 Bionic chip, and even lower pricing. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that the next Apple TV could have a sub-$100 starting price
Related Roundups: AirPods Max, Apple TV
Tags: 2024 AirPods Max, Apple TV, Bloomberg, Mark Gurman
Buyer's Guide: AirPods Max (Caution), Apple TV (Don't Buy)
Related Forums: AirPods, Apple TV and Home Theater
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'Noticeably Thinner' Apple Watch Series 10 to Eventually Get Sleep Apnea Detection
The Apple Watch Series 10 will include a new sleep apnea detection feature, but it may not be available as soon as the new model launches, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
Sleep apnea detection, which builds on the watch's existing sleep tracking, will attempt to determine if a wearer has sleep apnea and then suggest further testing with a medical professional.
previously reporting that Apple's efforts hadn't gone smoothly and that it had "run into some serious snags."
The sleep apnea detection feature was said to be in trouble because it relies on blood oxygen saturation, which Apple Watches in the United States cannot currently measure due to an ongoing legal dispute with Masimo.
Gurman previously suggested that the dispute with Masimo could be resolved by September, or Apple could find a way around it by arguing that the blood oxygen sensor could be used for purposes that are not directly related to blood oxygen levels. Either way, the Apple Watch Series 10 model will eventually feature sleep apnea detection, perhaps via a later software update.
Meanwhile, the new hypertension detection (high blood pressure) feature Apple appears to have been working on has been insufficiently reliable during testing, suggesting the feature is being delayed and "no longer on the cards for an immediate release," according to Gurman.
Apple Watch Series 9, but Apple has given them slightly larger screen-size options and the watch case itself is said to be noticeably thinner. Apple is expected to unveil the new models alongside the iPhone 16 at its September 9 event.
Related Roundup: Apple Watch Series 9
Tag: Mark Gurman
Buyer's Guide: Apple Watch (Don't Buy)
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Apple Approves WeChat Update for iPhone 16 Amid Ongoing Revenue-Sharing Negotiations
Apple has approved an update to WeChat for the upcoming iPhone 16, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the tech giant and Tencent, the Chinese company behind the massively popular messaging app. The development, reported by Bloomberg, comes as Tencent and Apple continue negotiations over revenue-sharing agreements for WeChat's mini-games ecosystem.
The approval of the WeChat update for Apple's upcoming iPhone lineup is likely to quell speculation about a deteriorating relationship between the two companies, and suggests Apple is committed to maintaining WeChat's presence on its devices, given the app's critical importance in the Chinese market.
Tencent's chief strategy officer, James Mitchell, revealed during an earnings call that the company is in talks with Apple regarding a revenue-sharing deal. The negotiations center around allowing Tencent to accept payments in WeChat mini-games through Apple's payment system, potentially resolving a long-standing point of contention.
App Store policies.
The rise of mini-games within WeChat has led to developers seeking ways to monetize their creations by selling in-game items. Some have resorted to "steering" practices, guiding players to make payments outside of Apple's ecosystem to avoid fees and improve their profit margins. Apple has been pushing Tencent to close these loopholes, viewing them as violations of its App Store policies.
Apple has also warned ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, about in-app spending policies. However, these aggressive actions reportedly risk alienating content creators in a crucial market at a time when Apple's business practices are under increased global scrutiny.
Tags: China, WeChat
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Apple Approves WeChat Update for iPhone 16 Amid Ongoing Revenue-Sharing Negotiations
Apple has approved an update to WeChat for the upcoming iPhone 16, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the tech giant and Tencent, the Chinese company behind the massively popular messaging app. The development, reported by Bloomberg, comes as Tencent and Apple continue negotiations over revenue-sharing agreements for WeChat's mini-games ecosystem.
The approval of the WeChat update for Apple's upcoming iPhone lineup is likely to quell speculation about a deteriorating relationship between the two companies, and suggests Apple is committed to maintaining WeChat's presence on its devices, given the app's critical importance in the Chinese market.
Tencent's chief strategy officer, James Mitchell, revealed during an earnings call that the company is in talks with Apple regarding a revenue-sharing deal. The negotiations center around allowing Tencent to accept payments in WeChat mini-games through Apple's payment system, potentially resolving a long-standing point of contention.
App Store policies.
The rise of mini-games within WeChat has led to developers seeking ways to monetize their creations by selling in-game items. Some have resorted to "steering" practices, guiding players to make payments outside of Apple's ecosystem to avoid fees and improve their profit margins. Apple has been pushing Tencent to close these loopholes, viewing them as violations of its App Store policies.
Apple has also warned ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, about in-app spending policies. However, these aggressive actions reportedly risk alienating content creators in a crucial market at a time when Apple's business practices are under increased global scrutiny.
Tags: China, WeChat
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TrendForce: Both iPhone 16 Pro Models to Feature 256GB Base Storage
Apple is expected to offer both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max with a minimum of 256GB storage, doing away with the 128GB starting option on its smaller Pro model for the first time, according to a new TrendForce report.
Currently, Apple's 6.1-inch iPhone 15 Pro starts at $999 and comes with the minimum 128GB of storage, while the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max starts at $1,199 with a minimum 256GB of storage. Ahead of the launch of the iPhone 15 models, there were rumors that the iPhone 15 Pro Max could start at $1,199, instead of the $1,099 starting price it charged for the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
That did turn out to be accurate, but only because Apple eliminated the lower priced 128GB storage tier. The iPhone 15 Pro Max now starts at 256GB, and $1,199 is the same price Apple charged for the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro Max. Looking ahead to the upcoming iPhone 16 series, TrendForce believes Apple will follow the same strategy for the iPhone 16 Pro model.
tetraprism periscope lens – a feature that was last year exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max model. In other words, upping the minimum capacity to 256GB will allow Apple to pass over the cost to the consumer while diluting the impression of rising prices.
TrendForce notes that even if the price remains at the same level, consumers' usage habits, such as shooting and storing a large number of high-definition photos and videos, and downloading music and large-scale games, will continue to push up the demand for the average storage capacity.
Is 128GB Enough iPhone Storage?
In 2018, Apple's iPhone X came with 64GB, an entry-level storage tier that persisted in successive premium device generations until the iPhone 12 Pro in 2020, when Apple adopted 128GB as the new baseline. The next year saw all iPhone 13 models offered with a minimum 128GB. If Apple makes 256GB the new minimum across its premium devices this year, we could well see it reach all models in 2025.
bigger display sizes, increasing to 6.27- and 6.86-inches, respectively. For comparison, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are equipped with 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch displays, respectively. The new display sizes will be the largest ever for the iPhone, and should also increase the physical space for internal components and parts.
iPhone 16 Launch Month Is Here: Here's Everything We Know
It's Glowtime," which is believed to be a reference the new Siri interface that comes with Apple Intelligence.
Related Roundup: iPhone 16 Pro
Tag: TrendForce
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Ugreen Launches Qi2 iPhone Chargers With Emoji Faces
Ugreen today announced the launch of several new Apple-specific charging products that have a robot-style design with emoji faces. The Uno series includes a Qi2 charger, a wireless power bank, and a 100W USB-C charger.
According to Ugreen, the chargers were created with "Fast and Fun Charging" for Apple users in mind. Each one has a TFT screen that can display different emoji faces when charging.
iPhone at up to 15W. There's also a 20W two-way USB-C port for charging, and a foldable metal stand.
The Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charger is also Qi2, and it is able to charge the iPhone at up to 15W and AirPods at up to 5W. It has an upright magnetic charging puck with an adjustable viewing angle. There's also a 5W USB-C charger that an Apple Watch charger can be plugged into for Apple Watch fast charging.
The Ugreen Uno Charger 100W can be used to charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 43 percent in 30 minutes. It has a total of three USB-C ports and a single USB-A port, with power distributed between the different ports when multiple devices are plugged in.
Ugreen is also working on a 30W 10,000 mAh power bank and a 6-in-1 USB-C hub for the Uno series. The products will be available later this year.
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Google's AI-Powered 'Ask Photos' Search Feature Now Rolling Out
Google today said it has started rolling out early access to a new "Ask Photos" feature for its Google Photos app. Available to both iOS and Android users, the new Google Photos feature takes advantage of Google's Gemini AI to provide new ways to search.
With Ask Photos, users can use natural language search terms to find specific memories or information in their images. Google says that Google Photos users can ask all sorts of questions to find content from their image libraries, with the feature able to search through all of a person's Google Photos images to bring up relevant results. Some examples:
What are the best photos from each national park I visited?
Where did I camp last year?
When do my tickets expire?
What were the best things we saw on our trip?
What did I eat at the hotel in [location]?
What did I eat at the market in Thailand?
What are the best photos from the birthday party?
What themes have we had for family birthday parties?
Ask Photos is able to understand the context and subject of photos to provide answers to questions. With the last question listed above, for example, Ask Photos can see what decorations are in the background of an image or on a birthday cake to answer the query.
The feature can be used to curate the best images taken on a trip, saving editing time. It can also provide trip highlights, and suggest top pictures complete with captions to share on social media.
Google says that personal data in Google Photos isn't used for ads, but some queries will be reviewed by humans to improve the feature. Data will not be linked to a Google Account for privacy protection purposes. Answers provided by Ask Photos, including photos and videos, are not reviewed by humans unless feedback is provided or in rare cases to address abuse or harm.
sign up for the waitlist on Google's website.
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When to Expect the iPhone SE 4 to Launch
Over two and a half years have passed since Apple released the current iPhone SE, so the device is due for an update. Below, we recap the latest rumors about the next-generation iPhone SE, including potential features and launch timing.
Timing
The latest word comes from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his Power On newsletter last month, he said he expects the next iPhone SE to launch in the spring of 2025. All three existing iPhone SE models were announced in March over the years, so it seems likely that the fourth-generation model will also be introduced in March next year.
The Information also previously claimed that the next iPhone SE will launch in the first quarter of 2025, so that timeframe has been corroborated by multiple sources. The Information said that Apple suppliers would begin ramping up mass production of the device in October.
Features
The current iPhone SE starts at $429 in the U.S. with 64GB of storage and 4GB of RAM. The device's key features include a 4.7-inch LCD display, A15 Bionic chip, Touch ID, 5G support with a Qualcomm chip, a single 12-megapixel rear camera, and a Lightning port.
The next iPhone SE is rumored to have an iPhone 14-like design with the following features:
6.1-inch OLED display
A18 chip
Face ID
USB-C port
Action button
Apple-designed 5G chip
A single 48-megapixel rear camera
8GB of RAM for Apple Intelligence
Gurman believes the next iPhone SE will likely be priced in the $400 to $500 range, so the device would remain a lower-cost option in Apple's smartphone lineup, despite gaining a larger display and a more modern set of features.
Update — September 2024:
Japanese publication Nikkei Asia has since also reported that the iPhone SE 4 with an OLED display will be released in 2025.
Related Roundup: iPhone SE
Tags: Bloomberg, Mark Gurman
Buyer's Guide: iPhone SE (Don't Buy)
Related Forum: iPhone
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Belkin Releases New Qi2 Foldable Wireless Chargers
Belkin today introduced a number of new charging accessories, joining companies that are moving forward with the new Qi2 standard.
The $45 BoostCharge Magnetic Foldable Charger has a fold-down stand and supports 15W charging on MagSafe-compatible iPhones. The position is customizable, and an iPhone can be charged in portrait or landscape for StandBy functionality. A second model priced at $70 also includes a second charger for AirPods. The 2-in-1 version is available now, while the standalone model will be launching later this month.
The $99 BoostCharge 3-in-1 Magnetic Foldable Charger has a Qi2 charging pad for the iPhone, an Apple Watch Charger, and an AirPods Charger. It can be used as a pad or folded into a stand, and it is available as of today.
Belkin's BoostCharge Pro Magnetic Wireless Travel Pad is priced at $119 for a 2-in-1 model that can charge the iPhone and Apple Watch, or $129 for a version that also includes an AirPods charger. The Qi2 charger for the iPhone can be used as a charging pad or folded into a stand. The Travel Pad is set to launch in autumn 2024.
Belkin also debuted two new BoostCharge Power Banks, including a $40 10K mAh model with integrated USB-C cable and a $90 20K mAh version for laptops. The laptop power bank is available today, while the version with integrated cable is coming in autumn 2024.
The new products that are available now can be purchased from the Belkin website.
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Apple Store Grand Opening in Sweden Hints at iPhone 16 Release Date
Apple has announced that it will be opening a new retail store at the Mall of Scandinavia near Stockholm, Sweden on Friday, September 20, and this may end up being the release date for the upcoming iPhone 16 series.
Apple is expected to announce four new iPhone 16 models during its special event on Monday, September 9. Given that new iPhones typically launch in stores and begin arriving to customers on the second Friday after they are announced by Apple, the iPhone 16 series is expected to be released on Friday, September 20. If so, the new Apple Store in Sweden would be holding its grand opening on the same day.
in July, but the new store at the Mall of Scandinavia means that Apple will still operate three stores in the country following its grand opening.
on its website.
Related Roundups: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro
Tag: Apple Store
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Nanoleaf Launches 'Blocks' Mix and Match System, Smart Switch and Permanent Outdoor Lights
Nanoleaf today introduced several new lighting products, accessories, and software updates, showing off the devices at its annual Nanoleaf Live event. There are new light panels, permanent outdoor lights, and a smart switch, along with software features for the desktop app.
Building on its popular light panel options, Nanoleaf debuted Blocks, a new mix and match lighting system with multiple components that can be used for an even more customized light setup. There are two modular Square light panels in standard and Small Square sizes, along with Textured Square light panels, Light Pegboards, and Shelves. The various components can be linked together in any combination to create designs that offer more utility than just light by providing spaces for storing accessories and showing off collectibles.
Compared to the prior-generation Nanoleaf Squares, the updated Squares are sturdier, thicker, and most importantly, have seamless edge-to-edge lighting. The dark corners and light spots that were an issue with prior models have been eliminated with the new design, and the panels have a smooth, diffused lighting look that's much improved.
Small Squares and standard Squares can be combined together for a larger range of designs, and the squares are also compatible with prior Shapes and Elements Nanoleaf light panels when using the rigid links. Along with the standard Squares, the Light Pegboard can be used with pegs to showcase controllers, headphones, keyboards, and more, and the Shelves are ideal for small objects like plants, cameras, candles, and decor. The Textured Square has a mountain-like geometric shape that adds dimension.
The Square, Textured Square, and Light Pegboard are all the same size and can be accented with the smaller squares, while the Shelves can be used with the Pegboard, Square, or two Small Squares paired together. It is worth noting that the Pegboard and Shelf will require attaching the panels to the wall with screws, as adhesive is not sturdy enough, but the Squares can be attached with adhesive strips. With the Blocks, Nanoleaf has removed touch functionality, so the panels will not react when touched.
Nanoleaf also introduced new Matter Smart Multicolor Permanent Outdoor Lights, which are designed to offer year-round lighting. The Permanent Outdoor Lights offer 30 individually addressable LEDs for each 15-meter length, and can display shades of white, colors, animations, and patterns.
The Permanent Lights are weatherproof with IP67 and IP65 protection, and there is an anti-glare lens for smooth wall wash effects. The lights can be used for holidays and special occasions, but they also work as security lights thanks to scenes and automations. Nanoleaf says that it designed a simple mounting system for the Outdoor Lights, complete with cable covers for a neat look.
Along with the new lighting options, Nanoleaf announced its Sense+ Smart Wireless "Anywhere" Switch, which is a switch that for controlling smart lights. There are motion and daylight sensors for automations, and the two buttons can be set to six different actions. There are physical controls for adjusting brightness, a feature that is hard to find for smart lights.
According to Nanoleaf, the Sense+ was created to provide a hands-free lighting experience, turning the lights on when you enter a room and off when you leave, with options for controlling the lights based on the time of day.
For the Nanoleaf Desktop App, Nanoleaf is adding Orchestrator for real-time song detection to create color palettes and animated motions that are curated to each song you listen to. It connects directly to your machine's audio source rather than listening for audio, removing any ambient noise interference. Scenescapes combines lighting visualizations with soundscapes like a gentle ocean or crackling fireplace. Orchestrator is available in the Nanoleaf Desktop App in beta, while Scenescapes will launch in October.
from the Nanoleaf website, and will begin shipping in October. A Squares Smarter Kit with six panels is priced at $200, while the Combo XL Smarter Kit with 4 Squares, 4 Small Squares, a Light Pegboard, and a Shelf can be purchased for $250. Add-on kits are priced at $30.
Tag: Nanoleaf
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Apple Arcade Adding These New Games in October, Including NBA 2K25
Apple today announced four new games coming to Apple Arcade on October 3, including NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition, Food Truck Pup+, Furistas Cat Cafe+, and Smash Hit+. In addition, Balatro+ is coming to the service on September 26.
More details can be found in the Apple Newsroom press release. We have pasted Apple's description of each game coming below.
Legends are made in NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition as The Neighborhood debuts on mobile. Challenge Game Center friends to one-on-one matchups or other Game Center players in three-on-three contests, unlock side quests, and connect with the league's biggest stars. This fully traversable hoop culture paradise provides Apple Arcade players with a whole new area that combines indoor and outdoor streetball courts and shops, as they grow their careers and hone their skills through competitive play. They'll not only dominate the court — they'll run The Neighborhood. The game also features new MyCAREER and The Association updates, new character customizations, and a revamped Greatest Mode allowing players to relive the career-defining moments of some of their favorite ballers.
Players can cook up a good time with the best doggie chefs around. Work hard to create a yummy global crêpe business from the ground up, and watch it come to life with the game's vibrant pixel graphics. Players can also enjoy designing their own shops, curating stylish outfits, and even hiring other dogs as part-timers to help their businesses blossom in this feel-good game.
By connecting cute kittens with their ideal caregivers and bringing them joy, players can expand their cat collection. Each cafe is completely customizable from top to bottom, providing the opportunity for players to unleash their creativity and craft spaces that are both hospitable and special. Through each sweet interaction, these lifelike cats will leap off the screen and into players' hearts.
With force, focus, and sheer determination, Smash Hit+ takes players on immersive journeys where they move in sync with sound and explore new ways to deploy destructive physics. An unparalleled visual experience is created by the game's 50 unique rooms and 11 graphic styles, inspiring players to dedicate themselves to conquering the challenging obstacles that lie before them.
This hypnotically satisfying poker-inspired roguelike deck builder was created by solo developer LocalThunk and published by Playstack. Players combine poker hands with joker cards, each with their own unique abilities, to create varied synergies and builds. The goal is to earn enough chips to beat devious blinds, all while uncovering hidden bonus hands and decks. Reach the boss blind, beat the final ante, and secure victory in Balatro+'s distinctive psychedelic world, all set to a dreamy and retro-futuristic synthwave soundtrack.
received its first price increase last year, with U.S. pricing rising from $4.99 to $6.99 per month.
Tag: Apple Arcade
This article, "Apple Arcade Adding These New Games in October, Including NBA 2K25" first appeared on MacRumors.com
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https://www.macrumors.com/2024/09/05/apple-arcade-games-october-2024/
Apple Arcade Adding These New Games in October, Including NBA 2K25
Apple today announced four new games coming to Apple Arcade on October 3, including NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition, Food Truck Pup+, Furistas Cat Cafe+, and Smash Hit+. In addition, Balatro+ is coming to the service on September 26.
More details can be found in the Apple Newsroom press release. We have pasted Apple's description of each game coming below.
Legends are made in NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition as The Neighborhood debuts on mobile. Challenge Game Center friends to one-on-one matchups or other Game Center players in three-on-three contests, unlock side quests, and connect with the league's biggest stars. This fully traversable hoop culture paradise provides Apple Arcade players with a whole new area that combines indoor and outdoor streetball courts and shops, as they grow their careers and hone their skills through competitive play. They'll not only dominate the court — they'll run The Neighborhood. The game also features new MyCAREER and The Association updates, new character customizations, and a revamped Greatest Mode allowing players to relive the career-defining moments of some of their favorite ballers.
Players can cook up a good time with the best doggie chefs around. Work hard to create a yummy global crêpe business from the ground up, and watch it come to life with the game's vibrant pixel graphics. Players can also enjoy designing their own shops, curating stylish outfits, and even hiring other dogs as part-timers to help their businesses blossom in this feel-good game.
By connecting cute kittens with their ideal caregivers and bringing them joy, players can expand their cat collection. Each cafe is completely customizable from top to bottom, providing the opportunity for players to unleash their creativity and craft spaces that are both hospitable and special. Through each sweet interaction, these lifelike cats will leap off the screen and into players' hearts.
With force, focus, and sheer determination, Smash Hit+ takes players on immersive journeys where they move in sync with sound and explore new ways to deploy destructive physics. An unparalleled visual experience is created by the game's 50 unique rooms and 11 graphic styles, inspiring players to dedicate themselves to conquering the challenging obstacles that lie before them.
This hypnotically satisfying poker-inspired roguelike deck builder was created by solo developer LocalThunk and published by Playstack. Players combine poker hands with joker cards, each with their own unique abilities, to create varied synergies and builds. The goal is to earn enough chips to beat devious blinds, all while uncovering hidden bonus hands and decks. Reach the boss blind, beat the final ante, and secure victory in Balatro+'s distinctive psychedelic world, all set to a dreamy and retro-futuristic synthwave soundtrack.
received its first price increase last year, with U.S. pricing rising from $4.99 to $6.99 per month.
Tag: Apple Arcade
This article, "Apple Arcade Adding These New Games in October, Including NBA 2K25" first appeared on MacRumors.com
Discuss this article in our forums
https://www.macrumors.com/2024/09/05/apple-arcade-games-october-2024/