Apple surpasses Wall Street expectations in first quarter revenue and plans to launch iPhone sales in China.

Posted on January 31, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Apple exceeded analysts’ expectations in the first quarter of the 2025 fiscal year on Thursday. The company’s revenue increased by 4% to $124.3 billion, slightly higher than the projected $124.2 billion. Earnings per share were $2.40, beating the forecast of $2.35.

Following CEO Tim Cook’s announcement of the revenue, Apple’s shares surged by more than 8% in after-hours trading as the company is on track for revenue growth next year.

Investors expressed concerns about declining iPhone sales in China, the world’s largest smartphone market, with domestic competitors like HUAWEI gaining ground. Apple confirmed this on Thursday, reporting an 11.1% drop in iPhone sales in China, missing Wall Street’s revenue expectations.

During the earnings call, Cook mentioned Apple’s active device base of 2.35 billion.

Despite the mixed reviews, Cook hailed it as the company’s “best quarter” with a 4% profit increase. Cook highlighted the introduction of Apple Intelligence, which debuted for English-speaking iPhone users in late October. The AI feature has seen strong sales and impacted numbers positively, including in China.

Investors have closely monitored Apple’s progress in AI, which has been slower compared to competitors and has garnered a range of reviews. Despite initial anticipation, the technology has been criticized for inaccuracies and glitches.

During the earnings call, Cook assured analysts that AI technology would become mainstream. Apple Intelligence is currently exclusive to new devices in a limited number of countries, and adoption has been gradual. Cook emphasized the transformative nature of the feature once users experience it.

Apple’s earnings report came amidst a challenging week for high-tech stocks in the US. Following the presence of a Chinese AI company’s app on Apple’s App Store, several tech companies experienced declines. Despite initial setbacks, recoveries were observed in subsequent trading days.

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Apple seems to be shielded from the recent stock market turbulence, with its stock rising earlier in the week. Analysts believe Apple’s focus on integrating AI into its products enables cost efficiency compared to developing cutting-edge models.

Despite initial struggles in 2025, Apple’s stock had dropped by about 8% in the first three weeks of the year, primarily due to concerns about declining smartphone sales in China.

Apple Intelligence had faced glitches and generated inaccurate push notifications. In response to feedback, Apple ceased the feature earlier this month. A recent iOS update now explicitly states when notifications are AI-generated.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Competition regulator probes Apple and Google’s mobile platforms in the UK

Posted on January 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The UK’s competition watchdog is set to investigate the impact of Apple and Google’s mobile platforms on consumers and businesses, following criticism over the appointment of a former tech executive as its new chair.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will look into the tech giants’ mobile operating systems, app stores, and browsers to determine if specific guidelines are needed to regulate their behavior.

This inquiry comes after Doug Gurr, a former Amazon UK country manager, was appointed as the CMA chair, with the government denying any bias towards big tech companies.

The investigation will focus on how Google and Apple’s mobile platforms impact consumers, businesses, and app developers, as most smartphones in the UK come with pre-installed iOS or Android operating systems.

The CMA will assess whether Google and Apple should be classified as companies with “strategic market positions” under the new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC). If designated as such, the CMA could impose regulatory requirements or mandate changes to promote competition on their platforms.

Sara Cardel, CEO of the CMA, emphasized the importance of mobile platforms as gateways to the digital world and highlighted the potential for a more competitive ecosystem to drive innovation and growth.

The CMA aims to complete its investigation by October 22nd, in line with its focus on ensuring consistent regulations that support economic growth and competition.

Both Apple and Google have expressed readiness to cooperate with the CMA and reiterated their commitment to fostering choice and opportunity for consumers and businesses while complying with regulations.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple settles lawsuit by paying $95 million over claims Siri listened to private conversations

Posted on January 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Apple has agreed to pay $95 million in cash to settle a class action lawsuit alleging that its voice assistant, Siri, violated users’ privacy and listened to them without their consent.

iPhone owners complained that Apple routinely recorded private conversations after users unintentionally activated Siri and made those conversations available to third parties, including advertisers. The preliminary settlement was filed Tuesday night in federal court in Oakland, California, and must be approved by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White.

Voice assistants typically respond when you use a “hotword” such as “Hey, Siri.” The two plaintiffs said references to Air Jordan sneakers and Olive Garden restaurants prompted advertisements for those products. One person said he received an advertisement for a well-known surgical treatment after a personal discussion with his doctor. The plaintiffs argued that Apple did not receive consent before recording their conversations and, in fact, could not have obtained consent because one of the plaintiffs was a minor and did not have an Apple account at the time of the recording.

The complaint alleges that the violations continued from September 17, 2014 to December 31, 2024. The violation allegedly began with the addition of a “Hey, Siri” function to Siri, which led to unauthorized recordings. Estimated tens of millions of class participants can receive up to $20 per Siri-enabled device, such as an iPhone or Apple Watch.

Apple denied any wrongdoing in the settlement agreement. The company has consistently emphasized the importance of privacy. In 2018, Apple CEO Tim Cook criticized other technology companies for their surveillance, saying: ‘[t]His desire to prioritize profit over privacy is nothing new.” The company further countered in a letter to Congress. 2018 Apple’s iPhone devices do not “listen” to you, other than detecting the audio trigger “Hey Siri.”

But in a 2019 Guardian report cited in the original complaint, an Apple whistleblower revealed that contractors regularly listen to users’ private conversations when performing quality assurance on Siri. He said that he had done so. These conversations included confidential medical information, drug deals, and recordings of couples having sex. Some of these conversations were recorded by mistake, the whistleblower said, because Siri can mistake things like the “zip sound” as a wake word.

At the time, Apple said that only a “small percentage” of Siri requests are evaluated for quality, and those requests are not tied to a user’s Apple ID. “Siri responses are analyzed in a secure facility, and all reviewers are obligated to comply with Apple’s requests.” Strict confidentiality requirements. “The company then paused A quality improvement program has been installed to stop audio recording by default.

The Cupertino, Calif.-based company and its lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment Thursday. Lawyers for the plaintiffs did not immediately respond to a similar request. They could seek $1.1 million in fees and costs, up to $28.5 million in a settlement fund.

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For Apple, whose net income was $93.74 billion in its most recent fiscal year, $95 million is equivalent to about nine hours of profit.

A similar lawsuit on behalf of users of Google’s voice assistant is pending in federal court in San Jose, California, which is in the same district as the Oakland court. The plaintiffs are represented by the same law firm that worked on the Apple case.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Review of the new Apple MacBook Pro M4: Improved speed, performance, and affordability.

Posted on November 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple’s 2024 upgraded MacBook Pro ended the year on a high, with a significant power boost from the M4 chip, twice the memory than standard, longer battery life, and a lower price.

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Prices for the long-running laptop range start from £1,599 (€1,899/$1,599/AU$2,499), which is around £100 cheaper than last year’s M3 model. While it’s still an expensive, premium laptop, it does come with at least 16GB of RAM instead of the 8GB on previous models, which is worth paying extra for an upgrade.

The appearance has not changed from its predecessor. The body is still a solid, premium-looking aluminum shell that looks great in either gray or black. Although it’s not ultra-thin, its 14.2-inch size means it won’t feel cramped in your bag, making it perfect for working on the go.

This laptop has a premium look, feel, and feel for the price, and is available in black or gray aluminum. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The screen is still the star of the show. Super bright and crisp mini LED display with 120Hz refresh rate to keep things running smoothly. It’s noticeably brighter than many rivals for general tasks, and truly shines with HDR content. Apple is currently selling a special nano-textured display option for an additional £150, which significantly reduces glare when working in bright light or outdoors, if needed.

The on-screen webcam saw a very welcome upgrade to a 12MP Stage Center camera, similar to the one used on most iPads from 2021 onwards. It automatically pans and scans to stay in the frame. This is a killer feature for anyone who lives their life online. Work video calls. There’s a novel.”desk view” option uses an ultra-wide lens to view the space in front of your laptop and allows you to demonstrate it remotely. Although the built-in camera doesn’t provide a very clear view, it’s easier to use your iPhone as a secondary camera with various accessories.

The camera doesn’t yet support Apple’s Face ID system for iPhones and iPads. That’s a shame, even though the Touch ID fingerprint sensor in the power button works well.

Specifications

Screen: 14.2 inch Mini LED (3024×1964; 254 ppi) ProMotion (120Hz)
Processor: Apple M4, Pro, or Max
Ram: 16, 24, 32, or up to 128GB
Storage: 512GB, 1, 2, 4, or 8TB SSD
Operating System: macOS 15.1 Sequoia
Camera: 12MP center stage
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 3x Thunderbolt 4/USB 4, HDMI 2.1, SD card, headphones
Size: 221.2×312.6×15.5mm
Weight: 1.55kg

All 14-inch MacBook Pro models have three USB-C ports that allow you to connect to two external monitors at the same time. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The big upgrade under the hood is the addition of Apple’s latest M4 series chip, first seen in the iPad Pro M4 earlier this year. The base 14-inch MacBook Pro comes with a 10-core version of the M4 chip and 16 GB of RAM (double the previous model), which is a welcome upgrade.

The M4 chip is up to 25% faster across the board than the traditional M3 chip, and up to 1.8x faster than the original M1 chip, making it extremely fast indeed. It feels very fast in everyday use, launching apps and processing data noticeably faster than a MacBook Pro with a 2021 or newer M1 Pro chip.

This laptop has best-in-class battery life, lasting around 21 hours of light browsing and regular usage with many tabs open in Chrome, a word processor, and various small utilities, note-taking and messaging apps can manage approximately 18 hours of work. light photo editing affinity photo. It also has a long battery life on standby, draining only about 1% overnight when closed.

For many use cases, the M4 chip is sufficient. However, if you’re looking to render 3D objects, crunch numbers, or write code, the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips are available, which add more high-performance processing and graphics cores. thunderbolt 5 Connectivity.

The base model M4 laptop has an additional Thunderbolt 4/USB 4 port compared to the previous model, allowing you to drive two external monitors and a laptop display simultaneously.

Sustainability

The Space Black color looks just as great as the high-end version of its predecessor and is now available on all MacBook Pro M4 models. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

MacBook Pro is made with 35% recycled materials, including aluminum, copper, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, steel, and tin. In its report, Apple provides a detailed analysis of the impact computers have on the environment.

The laptop is generally repairable, and Apple makes its repair manual available. The battery life is as follows: Over 1,000 full charge cycles and can Apple will replace it for £245. The company offers trade-in and free recycling programs, including for non-Apple products.

macOS Sequoia and the First Apple Intelligence

MacOS 15.1 now enables iPhone Mirroring, Siri input, AI Cleanup for Photos, and several other Apple Intelligence features. Composition: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

MacBook Pro runs the latest version of macOS Sequoia 15.1, which comes with a variety of new Messages and other features that are compatible with iOS 18.1. It features a very useful new window tiling system that snaps windows to the side or full screen when you drag them to the edge of your display, similar to the feature in Windows 11.

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It has iPhone mirroring allows you to wirelessly view a virtual representation of your iPhone on your Mac and control it with your mouse and keyboard, including using apps. A selection of notifications from your phone will appear in your Mac’s Notification Center. This is useful for certain services that only have a phone app.

But the new features that are getting the most attention are the first few features of Apple Intelligence. These include the same AI writing tools you’d find on your iPhone or iPad that can proofread, rewrite, and summarize text. Since they are built directly into the operating system, they are easier and faster to use than third-party options, but I have only found them useful a few times.

You can now type and talk with the new Siri. This works very well on Mac. Double-tapping the command button brings up a text box, which is more socially acceptable in an office or coffee shop than asking a question aloud. However, Siri’s capabilities are still far behind rivals such as Google’s Gemini.

Other small AI tools are scattered around various apps. The Photos app now has natural language search and a new AI cleanup tool to remove unwanted objects. Mail and Messages apps have AI smart replies and conversation summaries that stack and summarize notifications from all your apps for quick analysis.

I don’t think any of these tools are killer features for your Mac, but some of them can be useful in a pinch, and when they’re not, they usually don’t get in the way.

Price

Prices for the 14-inch MacBook Pro M4 start at £1,599 (€1,899/$1,599/AU$2,499). The M4 Pro model is priced from £1,999 (€2,399/$1,999/AU$3,299), while the M4 Max starts at £3,199 (€3,799/$3,199/AU$4,999).

For comparison, the MacBook Air M3 starts at £1,099, the iPad Pro M4 costs £999, the comparable Dell XPS 14 costs around £1,400, the Razer Blade 14 costs £2,150, and Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Studio 2 is priced at £1,090. £2,069.

Verdict

The MacBook Pro M4 shows that small improvements across the board can slowly add up to bigger results. It may not look all that different from last year’s M3 model, but it has significant speed and battery life upgrades that make a big difference in day-to-day operation when compared to a machine that’s just three years old.

14-inch laptops are still the best in terms of screen size and portability, thanks to Apple’s best-in-class keyboard, trackpad, and great display.

Finally having a good Center Stage camera on the MacBook Pro is a very welcome upgrade, even without Face ID. An additional USB-C port, double the boot memory, and the faster M4 chip also make this boot model even more appealing.

It’s still an expensive laptop, but it’s on par as a premium workstation that can be used at full speed away from a power socket and has a very long battery life, unless you specifically need Windows 11. There is no.

Strong Points: The M4 chip is faster, has more power options, a minimum of 16 GB RAM, very long battery life, a great miniLED ProMotion screen, a great center stage camera, plenty of ports and SD card slots, great speakers, It has Touch ID, a great keyboard and trackpad.

Cons: No Face ID, no USB-A, RAM or SSD cannot be upgraded after purchase, is expensive, and not a big upgrade on the M3 model.

Touch ID on the power button is a great feature, but it’s Apple’s best-in-class keyboard and trackpad that make working with your MacBook Pro a joy. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple sees high demand for iPhone 16 despite declining sales in China

Posted on November 1, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple’s quarterly earnings report on Thursday revealed strong demand for the iPhone 16, with a slight dip in overall sales in China compared to the previous year. The company recorded revenue of $94.9 billion, up by 6%, and earnings per share (EPS) of $1.64, slightly beating Wall Street’s expectations of $1.60 EPS on revenue of $94.4 billion.

Revenue from iPhone sales reached $46.2 billion, higher than the $43.8 billion reported in the same period last year. Additionally, fourth-quarter revenue for the Services segment, including subscriptions, rose to $24.97 billion from $22.31 billion year-over-year.

The company also received a one-time payment of $10.2 billion following the annulment of the European General Court’s judgment demanding Apple to repay Irish taxes.

This earnings report marked the debut assessment of the iPhone 16’s demand, which was launched shortly before the close of the fourth quarter. The introduction of the latest iPhone was anticipated to boost Apple’s presence in China and help in reclaiming market share from competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi. According to a report by the International Data Corporation, Apple had dropped to the sixth position in smartphone retail rankings due to tough competition.

CEO Tim Cook lauded the release of the company’s “best products yet,” which now include Apple Intelligence in addition to the iPhone 16.

Apple Intelligence, a new feature providing enhanced privacy in AI, was recently launched, further strengthening the product lineup for the holiday season. The company did not specify the anticipated impact of Apple Intelligence on driving product demand during the holiday period.

Luca Maestri, Apple’s chief financial officer, expressed excitement about upcoming product launches and enhancements, emphasizing that the rollout of Apple Intelligence will evolve gradually.

Amidst a challenging year for Apple, marked by weak demand for its other devices, investors sought updates on iPhone 16 demand and the gradual rollout of Apple’s AI features, collectively known as Apple Intelligence.

Cook highlighted the positive consumer response to Apple Intelligence, noting a significant increase in iOS update downloads compared to the previous year.

The company continues to refine Apple Intelligence, with plans for further feature releases over the next months. Cook hinted at more advanced versions in the pipeline as well.

Apple has yet to launch Apple Intelligence in key markets like Europe and China, where competition remains fierce. In Asia, the Indonesian government has imposed a ban on iPhone 16 sales, alleging Apple’s failure to fulfill promises of increased local investments.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Indonesia blocks sales of Apple iPhone 16 over insufficient investment, company faces restrictions

Posted on October 29, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Indonesia has prohibited Apple from marketing and selling the iPhone 16 model due to non-compliance with local investment regulations, as stated by the Indonesian Ministry of Industry.

Despite Southeast Asia’s largest economy having a significant population of young, tech-savvy individuals with over 100 million people under the age of 30, Apple does not have an official store in the country. Those interested in Apple products resort to purchasing them from resale platforms.

A spokesperson for Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry revealed that imported iPhone 16 model phones released in September cannot be sold in the country because Apple’s local division fails to meet the requirement of 40% of the phones being manufactured with local parts.

“iPhone 16 devices imported by registered importers are currently not permitted for sale in the country,” stated ministry spokesperson Febri Hendry Antoni Arif on Friday.

“Apple Indonesia…has not fulfilled its investment commitments to obtain certification.”

To meet this criteria, Apple would need to invest in Indonesia and source materials for iPhone parts from the country, as reported by local media outlets. Apple had previously pledged Rp 1.7 trillion in investments in Indonesia but had only invested Rp 1.5 trillion by the beginning of the month.

Apple has not responded to inquiries from the Guardian.

The ministry clarified that new Apple mobile phones can be brought into Indonesia as long as they are not intended for commercial trade.

An estimated 9,000 new models have been imported into the country of approximately 280 million people. Although these products entered the country legally, selling them in Indonesia would be considered illegal.

Past bans imposed in Indonesia, similar to the one on Apple, have been aimed at promoting domestic production. However, the outcomes have been mixed.

According to Counterpoint Research, China’s Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and South Korea’s Samsung dominated Indonesia’s smartphone market shipment share in the second quarter of this year.

The absence of Apple in Indonesia signifies a missed opportunity for the company, which has experienced success in other parts of Asia. Indonesia currently has more mobile phones in use than its population.

In April, Apple CEO Tim Cook visited Indonesia to explore investment opportunities in Southeast Asia’s largest economy and diversify its supply chain away from China. He engaged in discussions with then-President Joko Widodo and his successor Prabowo Subianto after Apple announced plans to expand its developer academy in the country.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Review of Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2: Improved chip speed and screen brightness

Posted on September 10, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

With brighter screens, new hands-free gestures, and faster speeds for the first time in years, Apple’s smartwatch has firmly established itself as the market leader.

The Apple Watch Series 9 will be available in a variety of sizes and materials, with prices starting at £399 (€449 / $399 / AU$649), a £20 reduction in the UK. It will launch alongside the Ultra 2, which costs £799 (€899 / $799 / AU$1,399), £50 cheaper than last year’s model.

Both watches look similar to their predecessors on the outside, with the Series 9 sporting a slimmer, pillow-shaped shape and available in 41mm or 45mm size options, while the 49mm Ultra 2 sports a chunkier look with a sturdy titanium shell and oversized buttons.

New this year are significantly brighter screens. The Series 9 is twice as bright as last year’s Series 8, with a maximum brightness of 2,000. LiceThat puts it on par with rival Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 6, and it has the same maximum brightness as the iPhone 15 Pro Max. A brighter screen makes it easier to read in direct sunlight, which is especially important for a watch.

The Ultra 2 goes even further, with a screen that can hit an impressive 3,000 nits at peak, which is 50% brighter than last year’s model. The super-bright screen is almost overkill unless you’re hiking through the desert, but you can unleash maximum brightness with the built-in torch mode to better light your way.

New, faster chips

Siri requests for apps, timers, and other simple actions are now much faster and more reliable, even when you’re out of range of your iPhone. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The new S9 chip in both watches is the first to offer a significant speed boost since the S6 in 2020. The 30% performance increase isn’t dramatic for everyday activities, except for interactions with Siri, many of which are now handled on the watch. Setting timers, taking calls and other simple interactions are quicker without an iPhone or data connection. Voice input for messages and notes is also up to 25% more accurate, making it faster to send replies without a phone call.

Battery life for both models is around 36 hours for the Series 9 and 70 hours for the Ultra 2, enough for a full day and night, or nearly three days, on a single charge.

Double Tap is coming soon

The double pinch gesture is simple and easy to perform, making it especially useful for quick actions like silencing a timer when your other hand is occupied. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Apple also added a new gesture for hands-free use of the Watch: “Double Tap,” which recognizes pinching your finger and thumb together twice, which is a simplified version of one of Apple’s existing gestures. AssistiveTouch accessibility features It’s for watches, but it’s faster and has become a standard part of every interface.

A double pinch will silence alarms and timers, start or end calls, and perform other basic actions. This feature only works when the screen is active, so the watch is facing you and can’t be accidentally activated. This feature requires the watchOS 10.1 update. It’s currently being tested in the public beta, but is working very well and should be fully rolled out by the end of October.

Sustainability

Apple doesn’t disclose the expected lifespan of the battery, but it is expected to last for more than 500 full charge cycles, retain at least 80% of its original capacity, and is replaceable. £95Repair costs Between £309 and £509 Varies by model.

They contain recycled aluminum, titanium, cobalt, copper, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tin, and tungsten. Apple offers trade-ins and free recycling for its devices, and the report details the environmental impact of each watch.

price

The Series 9 comes in two sizes (41 and 45mm), a choice of materials, and a 4G option that requires an e-SIM-compatible phone plan add-on. Prices start from £399 ($399/AU$649), with the 4G model costing an extra £100 ($100/AU$160). The Ultra 2 costs £799 ($799/AU$1,399).

By comparison, the Apple Watch SE costs £259, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 costs £289, and the Google Pixel Watch 2 costs £269. £349The Garmin Venu 3 costs £449, while the Garmin Epix Pro costs £829.

verdict

Apple’s smartwatch didn’t need much to keep it in the top spot, but both the Series 9 and Ultra 2 look the same but with small but meaningful updates that are hard to beat.

The significantly brighter screen makes a big difference when you’re outside and want to see the time, alerts, and activity stats at a glance, and the faster chip means this watch will stay fast for years to come, making interactions with Siri super-fast, even when your phone isn’t nearby.

The upcoming double-tap gesture is also a handy addition, making tasks like checking train times a little easier when you’re rushing with your luggage.

If you want the best smartwatch for your iPhone, it’s hard to beat the Apple Watch, either model.

When the double-tap gesture is recognized, the watch vibrates and a notification pops up, here we are scrolling through widgets on the watch face. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple fails to win EU court case challenging Ireland’s €13 billion tax bill

Posted on September 10, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple has lost its high-profile 13 billion euro (11 billion pounds) Irish tax battle with the EU, but the ruling will bolster efforts by the European Commission to crack down on “preferential” tax regimes favoring multinational companies.

The long-awaited ruling from the European Court of Justice (ECJ) came after a years-long legal battle over whether the European Commission was right in 2016 to demand the return of 13 billion euros of “illegal” tax breaks given to Apple for giving the iPhone maker an unfair advantage.

ECJ (European Court of Justice) The verdict was given The Commission argued that a lower court ruling in favor of Apple should be overturned, upholding a 2016 European Commission decision that found Ireland had provided unlawful assistance to Apple in the tax treatment of profits from Apple’s activities outside the United States and that Ireland was required to recoup the money.

In 2020, a lower court, the General Court, annulled the 2016 European Commission decision, finding that it had not been sufficiently established that Apple’s subsidiaries enjoyed a selective advantage. That ruling has now been set aside by the European Court of Justice, which has confirmed the European Commission’s 2016 decision.

The ruling was a victory for EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, who concluded: 2016 The iPhone maker benefited from billions of dollars worth of unfair tax breaks from the Irish government.

Vestager, who is due to step down this year, has been seen as a tough enforcer who has boldly taken on powerful multinationals such as Fiat, Amazon and Starbucks over their tax claims. But some of the cases have not stood the test of time, with a 2022 ruling against Fiat that was later overturned.

The case brings to an end a years-long legal battle that began in 2016 when the European Commission ordered Apple to pay billions of euros for significant underpayment of tax on profits from 2003 to 2014. Apple, which has had its European headquarters in Cork since 1980, was found by the EU’s competition watchdog to have benefited from a tax ruling by Irish authorities and to have paid an effective tax rate of 0.005 percent in 2014.

Apple has denied the accusations, saying the government aid money had not been paid, and CEO Tim Cook said: It is called The claim is “political nonsense.”

Apple challenged the Commission at the General Court, the EU’s second-highest court, and won. Conclusion In July 2020, Brussels ruled that Apple had failed to prove that it had obtained an illegal economic benefit in terms of tax in Ireland.

The Commission appealed, and last year the Advocate General of the European Court of Justice, Giovanni Pitruzzella, recommended that the Commission overturn the General Court’s earlier ruling. Advocate General Pitruzzella said the General Court had made an error of law and needed to carry out a new assessment. He recommended that the European Court of Justice remit the case back to the General Court for a new ruling on the substance of the case.

Pitruzella’s recommendation was not legally binding and did not have to be followed by the ECJ, but the attorney general’s opinion carries great weight and usually influences the court’s final decision.

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Following the ECJ ruling, Apple said: “This case is not about how much tax we pay, but which government we owe tax to. We have always paid all taxes wherever we do business and have never had any special arrangements. Apple is a driver of growth and innovation in Europe and around the world, and we are proud to have consistently been one of the world’s largest taxpayers.”

“The European Commission is seeking to change the rules retroactively, ignoring the fact that our income is already subject to tax in the United States under international tax law. We are disappointed by today’s decision because the European Court of Justice previously reviewed the facts and invalidated this case in its entirety.”

Meanwhile, the ECJ It also ruled He upheld the 2.4 billion euro fine imposed by the European Commission against Google in an antitrust case. Whether Google falsely favored its online shopping service. In this case, the Attorney General said In January, the ECJ ruled that Google’s appeal should be dismissed.

Google said: “We are disappointed with the court’s decision, which concerns very specific facts. We made changes in 2017 to comply with the European Commission’s decision. Our approach has been successful for more than seven years, generating billions of clicks across over 800 comparison shopping services.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Top Apple Discounts on Black Friday 2024

Posted on September 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Purchasing a new product from Apple can be costly: whether it’s the latest iPhone, MacBook, or a relatively inexpensive iPad tablet, the well-known tech brand is not typically associated with discounts.

However, one of the rare occasions when Apple reduces its prices is during Black Friday. This massive annual sale often includes Black Friday Apple sales, allowing customers to save some money on both old and new products.

We search the internet for the top deals on Apple devices and accessories and compile them all in one place.

When is Black Friday 2024?

This year, Black Friday falls on November 29th and Cyber Monday on December 2nd. Many deals are revealed before Cyber Weekend, but some shoppers choose to wait for the deepest discounts. However, waiting too long poses a risk of the desired products selling out. It’s crucial to strike the right balance.

How to save money on Black Friday shopping in 2024

With numerous promotions available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. We recommend preparing a few things in advance. Are you eyeing a specific brand or model? Note down the price before the sale kicks off to ensure you snag a genuine bargain.

Bookmark this page – we will monitor all sale activities throughout the month to bring you the best deals.

Consider subscribing to retailer newsletters to be among the first to learn about discounts. Camel Camel Camel or Keeper are also valuable tools for Black Friday shopping on Amazon, helping you track price changes and ensure you secure the best deal.

Where can you find Apple deals this Black Friday?

Apple Sales in the UK

US Apple Sales

The best Black Friday Apple deals we found in 2023

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch, M3 Pro processor, 18GB RAM, 512GB SSD (2023) – Space Black

The 2023 MacBook Pro is powered by Apple’s M3 Pro processor, delivering exceptional performance for work and play. Enhanced graphics support demanding apps and games, while the Liquid Retina XDR display with 120Hz ProMotion offers incredibly smooth visuals. With ample ports and impressive battery life, Apple has redefined the MacBook Pro, setting a new standard.

Buy now from Very (was £1,699, now £1,579)

Apple iPad 10.2-inch 64GB WiFi 2021 – Space Gray

If you’re considering investing in a tablet, this iPad is an excellent choice. Featuring a 10.2-inch Retina display, powerful A13 Bionic chip, and ultra-wide front-facing camera, this iPad is compatible with Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard. It is currently discounted by over £50 in Black Friday sales across several retailers.

Buy now from Argos (£299), Currys (£299), Very (£299), or AO (£319)

Apple iPad 10.2″ 256GB WiFi 2021 – Silver

Another budget-friendly tablet option is the Apple iPad 10.2-inch 256GB version. Equipped with a 10.2-inch Retina display and additional True Tone technology, this model features the A13 Bionic chip, Neural Engine, and Touch ID for enhanced security. With a discount of approximately £50, depending on the retailer, this model is currently on sale in Black Friday deals.

Buy now from Argos (£299), Currys (£299), Very (£299), or AO (was £549, now £499)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch, M2 Processor, iOS, Wi-Fi, 256GB (2022) – Space Gray

The 2022 11-inch iPad Pro has been significantly enhanced, now featuring Apple’s M2 processor. Delivering exceptional performance, this iPad boasts a remarkable and advanced display. With features like the Liquid Retina display, wide viewing angle front camera, and impressive rear camera, this iPad Pro offers a professional-level experience for tasks ranging from photography to entertainment and gaming.

Buy now from Very (was £899, now £838)

iPhone 14 Plus, 128GB – Midnight

The iPhone 14 Plus features 128GB of storage, an advanced camera system, and all-day battery life. Currently on sale at various retailers with discounts, some also offer additional perks like three months of Apple TV+ for free with the purchase of the device.

Buy now from Very (previously £864, now £749), Argos (£749), Currys (£749), Mobiles.co.uk (£749)

iPhone 14 Plus, 256Gb – Starlight

Another model of the iPhone 14 Plus available on sale is the 256GB variant. Offering all-day battery life, collision detection safety technology, and an advanced camera system, this model is discounted at various retailers.

Buy now from Mobiles.co.uk (£749), Currys (£749), Very (previously £974, now £849)

iPhone 14, 128Gb – Purple

Another iPhone in Black Friday sales, this iPhone 14 comes with 128GB of storage and is currently discounted to around £649 from the usual £764 at retailers including Very and Amazon.

Buy now from Ebay (£627.43), Mobiles.co.uk (£649), Currys (£649), Very (previously £764, now £649)

Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation

Select AirPod models are currently on sale at discounted prices, with Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) available at unique new prices from multiple retailers. Designed for an enhanced audio experience, the AirPods Pro offer up to 2x more noise cancellation than the previous generation, making them ideal for commuters and those working in shared spaces.

Buy now from OnBuy (£194.96), Amazon (£189.05), Currys (£199.00)

Watch Series 8 GPS + Cellular, 45mm, Regular – Red

Your Apple Watch Series 8, a reliable health companion, has now been enhanced with more power. In addition to advanced health features, it comes with temperature sensors for deeper insights and collision detection for emergency aid*. Featuring sleep stage monitoring and an upgraded Workout app for improved health, it automatically identifies workouts and tracks blood oxygen, heart rate, sleep, and more for optimal health.

*Emergency SOS requires Wi-Fi calling with cellular or internet connection from your Apple Watch or nearby iPhone.

Buy now from Amazon (was £379, now £369)

Looking for more great Black Friday deals? We’ve compiled a fantastic deals page for you. Best Sonos deals for Black Friday, Black Friday Toy Deals, Best Black Friday heater deals, and Best Apple Deals for Black Friday.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Apple exceeds profit expectations despite declining iPhone sales.

Posted on August 2, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple’s profits for the third quarter of 2024 surpassed expectations, driven by new AI capabilities that helped offset declines in the Chinese market.

Although iPhone sales dropped compared to the previous year, revenue exceeded analyst predictions, reaching $85.78 billion for the quarter ending June 29, beating the expected $84.53 billion. The company maintained its cash dividend at 25 cents per share.

The positive report contrasted with disappointing earnings from tech giants like Amazon, Snap, and Intel. Intel, in particular, revealed plans to cut over 15,000 jobs to reduce costs and Amazon’s shares dropped after forecasting lower sales for the current and upcoming quarters.

Investors were keen on Apple’s performance in China, where market share has been dwindling. Sales in China dropped by 6.5% to $14.73 billion, a steeper decline than anticipated.

Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, addressed the concerns during an investor call, attributing some of the decline to currency fluctuations and noting that iPad sales had returned to growth.

Despite challenges in China, iPhone sales exceeded expectations with a slight decrease of 0.9% to $39.3 billion, less than analysts had predicted. This improvement was partly due to heightened demand before the release of new iPhones that featured enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities.

Apple’s artificial intelligence initiatives, including generative AI tools and a partnership with OpenAI for Siri enhancements, are seen as a strong move towards the AI consumer market.

The company’s solid performance was lauded by analysts, with expectations high for future sales impacted by the AI upgrades.

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iPad sales experienced robust growth, increasing by 23.7% to $7.16 billion, surpassing analysts’ expectations. Meanwhile, revenue from wearables, which include Apple Watch and AirPods, decreased by 2.3% to $8.1 billion.

Courtesy of Reuters report

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple accused by UK watchdog of not reporting child sexual images

Posted on July 22, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Child safety experts have claimed that Apple lacks effective monitoring and scanning protocols for child sexual abuse materials on its platforms, posing concerns about addressing the increasing amount of such content associated with artificial intelligence.

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) in the UK has criticized Apple for underestimating the prevalence of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on its products. Data obtained by the NSPCC from the police shows that perpetrators in England and Wales use Apple’s iCloud, iMessage, and FaceTime for storing and sharing more CSAM than in all other reported countries combined.

Based on information collected through a Freedom of Information request and shared exclusively with The Guardian, child protection organizations discovered that Apple was linked to 337 cases of child abuse imagery offenses recorded in England and Wales between April 2022 and March 2023. In 2023, Apple reported only 267 suspected instances of child abuse imagery globally to the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), contrasting with much higher numbers reported by other leading tech companies, with Google submitting over 1.47 million and Meta reporting more than 30.6 million, as per NCMEC reports mentioned in the Annual Report.

All US-based technology companies are mandated to report any detected cases of CSAM on their platforms to the NCMEC. Apple’s iMessage service is encrypted, preventing Apple from viewing user messages, similar to Meta’s WhatsApp, which reported about 1.4 million suspected CSAM cases to the NCMEC in 2023.

Richard Collard, head of child safety online policy at NSPCC, expressed concern over Apple’s discrepancy in handling child abuse images and urged the company to prioritize safety and comply with online safety legislation in the UK.

Apple declined to comment but referenced a statement from August where it decided against implementing a program to scan iCloud photos for CSAM, citing user privacy and security as top priorities.

In late 2022, Apple abandoned plans for an iCloud photo scanning tool called Neural Match, which would have compared uploaded images to a database of known child abuse images. This decision faced opposition from digital rights groups and child safety advocates.

Experts are worried about Apple’s AI system, Apple Intelligence, introduced in June, especially as AI-generated child abuse content poses risks to children and law enforcement’s ability to protect them.

Child safety advocates are concerned about the increase in AI-generated CSAM reports and the potential harm caused by such images to survivors and victims of child abuse.

Sarah Gardner, CEO of Heat Initiative, criticized Apple’s insufficient efforts in detecting CSAM and urged the company to enhance its safety measures.

Child safety experts worry about the implications of Apple’s AI technology on the safety of children and the prevalence of CSAM online.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple found in breach of EU competition regulations

Posted on June 24, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple has been found to be in violation of new EU laws designed to promote competition among smaller companies and help consumers find more affordable alternative apps in tech companies’ app stores.

The European Commission, acting as both the EU’s antitrust and technology regulator, has informed Apple of preliminary findings after launching an investigation in March.

The Commission’s preliminary findings, which Apple can appeal, state that Apple’s conduct rules do not comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) as they restrict app developers from freely directing consumers to other platforms for offers and content.

The Commission has also initiated new non-compliance proceedings against Apple over concerns that its new contract terms for third-party app developers do not meet DMA requirements.

This marks the third non-compliance investigation launched by the Commission since the DMA took effect last year.

As part of the investigation, the committee is examining the “core technology fee,” a charge that Apple imposes on developers each time their app is installed on a phone.

The allegations against Apple for violating EU law represent the first case against a tech company under the DMA, significant legislation introduced last August to ensure fair competition among six designated “very large online platforms,” including Google, Amazon, Meta, and ByteDance (TikTok).

The investigation comes after the committee’s initial inquiry into Apple’s treatment of mobile app suppliers three months ago.

Previous findings from an earlier investigation reiterated that Apple must allow developers to inform customers about alternative, cheaper purchasing methods, guide them to these options, and enable them to make purchases free of charge, as required by new digital laws.

The investigation found that Apple’s terms of business did not allow developers to direct customers to more affordable alternatives or provide pricing information within the app.

Moreover, Apple made it challenging for customers to access pricing information and required links to external web pages for contract details.

Ultimately, the Commission determined that the fees charged by the App Store were excessive and not strictly necessary.

The Commission stated that if Apple’s alleged violations are confirmed, all three of its terms and conditions would violate Article 5(4) of the DMA, mandating gatekeepers to allow developers to direct consumers to external offers free of charge. A non-compliance decision will be issued within 12 months of the proceedings’ start on March 25, 2024.

Apple has responded by making several changes in recent months to comply with the DMA based on feedback from developers and the European Commission.

The company believes its adjustments align with the law and estimates that under the new terms, over 99% of developers will pay the same or lower fees to Apple.

All EU-based developers on the App Store now have access to features like directing app users to the web for purchases at competitive prices, reflecting Apple’s commitment to address the European Commission’s concerns.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple postpones rollout of AI-driven features in Europe due to regulatory constraints

Posted on June 22, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple is delaying the launch of three new artificial intelligence features in Europe due to European Union competition rules. The features will be available in the US this fall, but not in Europe until 2025.

The delay is a result of regulatory uncertainty caused by the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Apple stated that phone mirroring, SharePlay screen sharing enhancements, and Apple Intelligence will not roll out to EU users this year.

Apple argues that complying with the EU regulations would compromise the security of its products, a claim that EU authorities have challenged in the past.

Apple stated in an email that they are concerned about the DMA’s interoperability requirements potentially compromising user privacy and data security.

The European Commission welcomes Apple in the EU as long as it complies with EU law, as stated in a Bloomberg article.

At its annual developers conference earlier this month, Apple announced Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI features that integrates ChatGPT with Siri for web searching and content generation.

The upcoming Apple mobile operating system will enable the assistant feature to search through emails, texts, and photos to find specific information as instructed by the user.

Apple assures that the new AI features, available on select Apple devices, will prioritize user privacy and safety. The company is working with the European Commission to address concerns and provide these features to EU customers securely.

CEO Tim Cook has reaffirmed that Apple’s AI features will respect personal privacy and context, aligning with the company’s commitment to user security.

Source: www.theguardian.com

“Making Podcast Transcripts Fun and Accessible: The Story Behind Apple’s Initiative” | Apple

Posted on June 15, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Ren Shelburne was tired of listening to episodes of popular podcasts that friends had recommended to her. The photographer, who has partial hearing loss and an auditory processing disorder, remembers struggling to get through one particular episode. It was a unique type of show: too many speakers, complex overlapping conversations, and, until recently, no transcripts. “There's so much going on at once, it's impossible to understand,” Shelburne says. She couldn’t keep up with the shows or discuss them with friends. “Podcasts are now a big part of pop culture and media, and I want to be able to be a part of that conversation.”

Weekly podcast listenership in the U.S. has more than quadrupled in the past decade. Pew Research But for some, the medium still feels inaccessible.

“Because of my hearing loss, sometimes I miss things,” says Alexandra Wong, a Rhodes Scholar studying digital accessibility, “and then I have to rewind five or six times to understand what’s going on.”

Shelburne and Wong are among about 15% of U.S. adults, or about 37.5 million people, who are ill. Difficulties in reporting Many people who are deaf or hard of hearing rely on subtitles or transcriptions to follow music, movies, and podcasts without assistive devices. Video streaming companies like Netflix, Peacock, and Hulu offer subtitles for nearly all of their programming, and time-synchronized lyric subtitles are increasingly standard for music streaming. The popularity of video subtitles has also been embraced by audiences outside the disability community, with 80% of Netflix viewers turning on subtitles at least once a month.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

Is AI Coming to Apple Devices? The Safety Concerns

Posted on June 13, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

During its annual developers conference on Monday, Apple introduced Apple Intelligence, an eagerly anticipated artificial intelligence system designed to personalize user experiences, automate tasks, and, as CEO Tim Cook assured, set “a new standard of privacy in AI.”

Although Apple emphasizes that its AI prioritizes security, its collaboration with OpenAI has faced criticism. The service, launched in November 2022, has raised privacy concerns by collecting user data for model training without explicit consent. Users will have the option to opt out of this data collection starting in April 2023.

Apple has assured that its collaboration with ChatGPT will be limited to specific tasks with explicit user consent, but security experts remain vigilant about how these concerns will be addressed.

Late to the game in generative AI, Apple has trailed behind competitors like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, whose AI ventures have boosted their stock prices. Apple has refrained from integrating generative AI into its main consumer products.

Apple aims to apply AI technology responsibly, building Apple Intelligence products over several years using proprietary technology to minimize user data leakage from the Apple ecosystem.

AI, which requires vast data to train language models, poses a challenge to Apple’s focus on privacy. Critics like Elon Musk argue that it’s impossible to balance AI integration and user privacy. However, some experts disagree.

“By pursuing privacy-focused strategies, Apple is leading the way for businesses to reconcile data privacy with innovation,” said Gar Ringel, CEO of a data privacy software company.

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Many recent AI releases have been criticized for being dysfunctional or risky, reflecting Silicon Valley’s “move fast and break things” culture. Apple seems to be taking a more cautious approach.

According to Steinhauer, “Historically, platforms release products first and address issues later. Apple is proactively tackling common concerns. This illustrates the difference between designing security measures upfront versus addressing them reactively, which is always less effective.”

Central to Apple’s AI privacy measures is its new private cloud computing technology. Apple intends to conduct most computing internally for Apple Intelligence features on devices. For tasks requiring more processing power, the company will outsource to the cloud while safeguarding user data.

To achieve this, Apple will only share the data necessary for each request, implement additional security measures at endpoints, and avoid long-term data storage. Apple will also open tools and software related to its private cloud for third-party verification.

Private cloud computing represents a significant advancement in AI privacy and security, according to Krishna Visnubotra, VP of product strategy at Zimperium. The independent audit component is particularly noteworthy.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The importance of passwords in the AI era: Why they still matter | Apple

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

AI, whether it stands for artificial intelligence or Apple intelligence, is a hot topic today. It’s time to have a conversation about it. [sits backwards on chair] password.

One significant change coming to Apple’s platform next year is the creation of a new Password app. This was somewhat overshadowed by the reporting from last night’s Apple event in Cupertino and New York by Kari Paul and Nick Robbins-Early.

9to5Mac reports that the new passwords app on iPhone home screens this fall will enhance the security of computing for average users who may not be familiar with password management apps.

The new Passwords app consolidates and simplifies existing password features on iOS and macOS, making them more accessible to users. It will display a list of all user logins after verifying identity.

Apple has expanded its password management capabilities over the years, offering security audits, alerting users to compromised passwords, sharing options, and data import/export features.

The focus on identity, rather than just passwords, highlights Apple’s aim with the new Passwords app. Managing digital identity remains a challenge, with passwords serving as the primary method of online identity verification but coming with inherent security risks.

Password managers like 1Password have emerged as a solution, but the industry is exploring alternatives like passkeys to address the limitations of traditional password systems.

While passkeys promise a password-free future, their adoption has been slow due to limited support from websites and initial user challenges. Despite the potential benefits, concerns remain about the security and user experience of passkeys.

From password managers to passkeys, the quest for secure and user-friendly authentication methods continues.

The evolution of identity verification extends beyond passwords to technologies like AI avatars. While the concept of AI systems participating in meetings remotely is not yet fully realized, advancements in voice synthesis and AI present new challenges and opportunities for digital identity verification.

As technology progresses, ensuring secure and seamless identity verification methods remains a crucial aspect of digital life.

The Wider TechScape

European brown bears play in the pool at Bristol Zoo’s Wild Place Project in 2020.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple unveils “Apple Intelligence” and introduces ChatGPT to Siri at WWDC 2024

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple CEO Tim Cook announced a new suite of generative artificial intelligence products and services during the keynote address at the company’s annual developers conference, WWDC. The products include “Apple Intelligence” and a partnership with ChatGPT maker OpenAI. This marks a significant move towards AI for Apple, as the company aims to enhance user experiences and catch up with rivals in the field.

In his speech, Cook emphasized the importance of AI understanding users on a personal level, rooted in their daily lives, relationships, and communications. Apple Intelligence includes a variety of generative AI tools integrated across the company’s devices, such as Mac laptops, iPad tablets, and iPhones. These tools can extract information from apps and perform actions within them, offering a more personalized experience for users.

The partnership with OpenAI will bring ChatGPT technology to a new version of Apple’s voice assistant, Siri. The updated Siri will act as an AI chatbot, capable of executing tasks based on voice prompts and providing more contextual and personalized responses. Users can expect features such as summarizing notifications, emails, and texts, as well as creating customized emoji reactions.

Apple also announced updates for its Vision Pro headset and the adoption of Rich Communication Services for improved messaging capabilities. The company showcased new features in the Photos app, Apple Maps, Wallet, and text messaging customization. Additionally, Apple aims to expand availability of the Vision Pro headset to more countries in the coming months.

As Apple delves deeper into the realm of AI, investors and analysts have been eager to see how the company will innovate in this space. While Apple has been cautious in introducing AI tools into its flagship products, it has been making strategic moves to strengthen its AI capabilities over the years. The company’s commitment to privacy remains a central focus, with measures in place to protect user data when utilizing AI technologies.

Despite the challenges of balancing AI innovation with user privacy, Apple is determined to set a new standard for responsible AI usage. By integrating AI features into its products while prioritizing user privacy, Apple aims to provide a seamless and secure experience for its customers.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple finally closes loophole allowing children to bypass parental controls

Posted on June 6, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple has acknowledged a persistent bug in its parental controls that allowed children to bypass restrictions and access adult content online.

This bug, which enabled kids to evade controls by entering specific nonsensical phrases in Safari’s address bar, was initially reported to the company in 2021.

Despite being ignored, a recent Wall Street Journal report has shed light on this issue, prompting Apple to commit to addressing it in the next iOS update.

This loophole effectively disabled the Screen Time parental control feature for Safari, allowing children unrestricted access to the internet.

While the bug doesn’t seem to have been widely exploited, critics argue that it reflects Apple’s disregard for parents.

iOS developer Mark Jardine expressed frustration, stating, “As a parent who relies on Screen Time to keep my kids safe, I find the service buggy with loopholes persisting for over a decade.”

When Screen Time was introduced in 2018, it was promoted as a tool for parents to monitor their kids’ device usage and manage their own screen time habits.

Over time, parents have become heavily reliant on Screen Time to control features, apps, and usage times for their children.

Following the release of Screen Time, Apple implemented restrictions on third-party services that offered similar functionalities, citing security concerns. However, this move faced criticism for anticompetitive behavior.

Five years later, critics argue that Apple’s monopoly has led to neglect in improving parental controls. Apple blogger Dan Mollen highlighted concerns raised by parents disillusioned with Screen Time.

Apple responded by saying, “We take reports of issues with Screen Time seriously and have continually made improvements to give customers the best experience. Our work isn’t done yet, and we will continue to provide updates in future software releases.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

‘Apple’s Focus on Games Has Never Been Stronger: What’s in Store for Apple Arcade?’

Posted on April 23, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

WWhen Apple introduced its gaming subscription service, Arcade, in September 2019, it garnered significant attention, as is typical for the company. The offering of 100 premium mobile games (without ads) for a monthly fee of £4.99/$4.99 (now £6.99) aimed to replicate the Netflix subscription model in the gaming industry.

Arcade was positioned as an alternative to the predominant free-to-play and ad-supported mobile games market. The presence of popular games like Genshin Impact, Clash of Clans, and Candy Crush had made it challenging for paid premium games to gain traction. However, Arcade changed the game by providing a diverse selection of titles playable on various Apple devices without ads or in-app purchases. Moreover, the games could be enjoyed offline, eliminating interruptions during gameplay.

Five years later, the landscape has evolved significantly with the emergence of new subscription services for TV, movies, and games, competing with Apple Arcade. This raises questions about Arcade’s continued relevance and priority for Apple.

Alex Rofman, a senior director at Arcade with a long history in mobile gaming, reflects on the successes of 2023, highlighting the launch of Hello Kitty Island Adventure and What the Car winning Mobile Game of the Year at the Dice Awards.

“Very silly and original”… What a car trailer.

Apple Arcade has positioned itself as a platform for delivering premium, engaging, and ad-free gaming experiences to a wide audience. The focus on innovative and family-friendly titles like Assemble With Care, Card of Darkness, and Hello Kitty caters to tech-savvy parents seeking safe gaming options for their children.

Bright spot…Neo Cab. Photo courtesy of Chance Agency

Despite the shift towards family-friendly games, Apple remains committed to supporting indie developers and fostering unique and creative ideas within the gaming industry. The success of titles like What the Car and Sneaky Sasquatch exemplifies Apple Arcade’s role as a platform for showcasing innovative indie games.

While facing criticism regarding canceled projects and declining royalty payments, Apple defends its commitment to supporting developers and reinforcing the importance of gaming within its ecosystem. The future of Apple Arcade includes games designed for Vision Pro, Apple’s spatial computing device, offering new gaming experiences and innovation in gameplay.

“Vision Pro opens up a whole new world of possibilities.” Photo: Angela Weiss/AFP/Getty Images

Despite challenges and competition, Apple Arcade continues to play a crucial role in the mobile gaming industry, offering curated gaming experiences for families and indie game enthusiasts. With a focus on innovation and inclusivity, Apple Arcade aims to solidify its position in the gaming sector as it navigates the evolving landscape in the coming years.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple faces full-scale lawsuit from US over alleged smartphone market monopoly

Posted on March 21, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The U.S. government initiated a significant antitrust lawsuit against Apple on Thursday, alleging that the tech giant impeded competition by limiting access to its software and hardware. The lawsuit challenges Apple’s core products and practices, including iMessage and the interconnectivity of iPhone and Apple Watch.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in New Jersey, asserts that Apple holds monopolistic power in the smartphone market and engages in “pervasive, persistent, and unlawful” conduct to maintain its dominance. It seeks to “free the smartphone market” from Apple’s anti-competitive behavior and claims that the company stifles innovation.

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland stated, “Apple’s illegal conduct has helped them remain in power, threatening the free and fair markets essential to our economy.”

The Department of Justice’s case against Apple is a significant legal action against the world’s most valuable publicly traded company. It follows similar antitrust cases targeting major tech firms like Amazon, Meta, and Google, which have faced scrutiny for consolidating power and stifling competition.

Apple denies the allegations, arguing that the lawsuit jeopardizes their core business and principles that set their products apart in a competitive market.

The lawsuit questions whether Apple’s practices of limiting rivals’ access to proprietary features like iMessage and Siri constitute anti-competitive behavior. It investigates whether Apple’s closed ecosystem creates unreasonable barriers for competitors.

The complaint accuses Apple of anti-competitive actions such as blocking innovative apps, restricting third-party digital wallets, and limiting cross-platform messaging. These actions allegedly inhibit competition and increase prices for consumers.

The lawsuit aims to change Apple’s practices and impose fines for their actions. It seeks to prevent Apple from strengthening its monopoly and using its app store and private APIs to hinder cross-platform technology distribution.

Apple, as a dominant force in the smartphone market, has faced criticism for its closed ecosystem. Rival companies view Apple’s features as creating a walled garden that limits consumer choice and competition.

The lawsuit highlights Apple’s clash with startup Beeper, which attempted to enable non-iPhone users to access iMessage. Beeper’s struggles with Apple exemplify the challenges faced by smaller competitors against tech giants.

The legal action against Apple is part of a broader crackdown on anticompetitive behavior by major tech companies. Regulators in both the U.S. and Europe have been investigating and pursuing cases against tech giants to promote fair competition.

European regulators, in particular, have fined Apple for anti-competitive practices. The investigation stemmed from complaints that Apple’s restrictions on its app store harmed other music streaming providers.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Epic Games challenges Apple and Google in Australia amid claims of market power abuse

Posted on March 16, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

When Apple’s first iPhone was released in 2007, all of its apps were created by Apple.

According to his biography by Walter Isaacson, Steve Jobs was reluctant to allow apps from third-party developers on the iPhone. He eventually succumbed to pressure with the launch of his App Store in 2008. However, the company wanted to maintain strict control over what was allowed on the platform: email. 2021 release schedule revealed.

The case, which will be heard over the next five months in Melbourne’s Federal Court, will center on Apple’s control over its empire. At the same time, Google, which has prided itself on having a more open ecosystem than Apple, will have its practices tested.

Two cases in Australia’s Federal Court were adjourned in April 2021, pending the outcome of a similar case in the United States. Epic Games, the maker of the popular game Fortnite, has spent the past three years in a global legal battle against Apple and Google, alleging abuse of market power over their app stores.

Fortnite announced a deal with Google in 2020 after Epic Games offered its own in-app payment system that bypasses the one used by the platform and reduced the fees Apple and Google receive on in-app payments. Removed from Apple’s app store.

Epic lost a 2021 antitrust lawsuit against Apple, but won a lawsuit against Google late last year. Although the Australian cases were initially separate, they are now integrated into one monolith. Judge Jonathan Beech decided to hear the two cases and a related class action at the same time to avoid duplication of witness evidence.

David and Goliath?

In an Australian lawsuit that originally began in 2020, Epic Games argued that Apple’s control over in-app purchases and Apple’s actions in banning the Fortnite app were an abuse of market power, and that it significantly reduced competition in app development. He claimed to have lowered it. The company also claims that Google has harmed Australian app developers and consumers by preventing them from distributing apps and choosing in-app payments on Android devices.

As with mobile phone operating systems, the litigation between Apple and Google has many similarities, but there are also important differences. Apple’s iOS and App Store are completely closed and controlled by Apple. This means that if you have an app on your phone and a payment is made through that app, it has to go through Apple.

Similar rules apply to the Play Store in Google’s Android operating system, but Google also allows apps to be “sideloaded,” or installed directly onto a phone without using the app store. It also allows phone manufacturers like Samsung to have their own app stores. Fortnite is still available on Android, but only through sideloading or the Samsung Store.

Companies charge fees for transactions in their app stores. In Google Play, he charges a commission of 15% for the first million dollars a developer earns each year, and above that he increases to 30%. If an Apple developer’s revenue in the previous year was less than $1 million, he would pay a 15% fee, but if it was more than that, he would pay a 30% fee.

Fees are common in the industry, with Epic’s own store charging developers a 12% fee.

Epic argues that it should be able to offer its store as a competitor to Apple’s store, and that it should also be able to offer alternative payment options within its official game store apps.

Google claims to be more open than the Apple App Store, but it was this openness that hurt the tech company in the US lawsuit. The jury found that tying the Google Play Store to in-app payments was illegal and that the company had entered into anti-competitive agreements with some developers to keep their apps on the Play Store.

In the Apple case, the judge took a narrower view, considering mobile game transactions specifically rather than app stores as a whole. The judge found that Apple is not a monopoly and is in competition with Google and other companies. The judge also upheld Apple’s concerns about the security implications of opening the App Store and sided with the company’s pursuit of intellectual property royalties through in-app payments.

Apple is expected to file a similar lawsuit in Australia. The company believes there is little difference between the cases and that the principles underlying Australian competition law are similar to US antitrust principles.

Apple sees Epic not as David the Goliath, but as a multibillion-dollar company seeking more profits at the expense of iPhone users’ safety.

Google claims that it not only offers customers a choice in the app store, but also offers alternative options for developers to sell their content outside of Google Play. It also points to permissions that allow sideloading of apps while maintaining user security, which Epic claims it is trying to water down.

“It’s clear that Android and Google Play offer more choice and openness than other major mobile platforms, and are a good model for Australian developers and consumers,” Google’s Government Affairs statement said. Vice President for Public Policy Wilson White said in a post this week. .

“We continue to have a right to sustainable business models that keep our users safe, grow our businesses in partnership with developers, and keep the Android ecosystem thriving and all Australians healthy. We will vigorously defend it.”

Apple forced to make changes to EU App Store

Initial submissions will last two weeks, followed by three months of evidence from fact witnesses and experts, followed by two weeks of final submissions, ending in mid-July.

Witnesses expected to testify include Epic CEO Tim Sweeney, who is in Melbourne for the hearing, as well as key executives from Apple and Google.

A concurrent class action lawsuit on behalf of Australian developers and consumers will fail if Epic’s lawsuit fails.

The case is unlikely to be resolved by the end of the year, and Beach is not expected to issue a verdict within six months, after which it could be appealed.

Whether or not Epic wins the battle, Apple and Google may ultimately lose the app store war. Apple has been forced to implement changes to its App Store in the European Union, including allowing alternative payment options and marketplaces, under the Digital Markets Act. As a result, Apple last week reinstated Epic’s developer account in the EU.

Epic says Apple’s implementation of these changes is incomplete, but other governments, including Australia, may follow suit.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple allows Epic Games to return Fortnite and Game Store to iPhones in Europe

Posted on March 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

In response to pressure from European regulators, Apple backtracked in its dispute with Epic Games on Friday, allowing Epic to bring Fortnite and its game store to iPhones and iPads in Europe.

Apple had initially taken measures earlier in the week to prevent Epic from launching a store and reintroducing popular games. However, after Epic objected and violated Apple’s in-app payment rules, Apple announced that it would remove the game from the App Store in 2017.

Apple’s decision to allow Epic back in is in line with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which prohibits Apple and Google from controlling app distribution on iOS and Android devices. This move follows the EU’s deadline for compliance set on Thursday.

EU industry chief Thierry Breton stated that regulators had warned Apple earlier in the week about blocking Epic’s potential return.

“We note with satisfaction that, following our communication, Apple has decided to reverse its decision regarding Epic’s exclusion. #DMA has already seen very concrete results from day 2. ” Breton said on Twitter.

Epic and Apple have been embroiled in a legal battle since 2020, with Epic alleging that Apple’s fees for in-app payments on iOS devices violate antitrust laws. Despite losing a legal battle with Apple, Epic deliberately violated Apple’s rules in protest.

Other Apple critics, like Spotify, have faced fines for anti-competitive behavior, but have not been banned from the App Store like Epic.

Developer accounts act as pawns in a larger battle

The recent dispute between Apple and Epic involves Apple’s developer accounts, a necessary step for developers before selling their apps on Apple devices.

Apple reinstated Epic Games’ developer account on Friday, allowing the company to bring the Epic Games Store and Fortnite back to iOS in Europe.

“This sends a strong signal to developers that the European Commission will enforce digital market laws and hold gatekeepers accountable,” Epic Games noted.

Apple suspended Epic’s account earlier in the week due to concerns about compliance with new rules set by Apple under DMA.

“As a result of discussions with Epic, Epic has committed to following the rules, including our DMA policy. As a result, Epic Sweden AB has been permitted to re-sign the developer agreement and participate in the Apple Developer Program,” Apple stated.

Source: www.theguardian.com

How much money does Spotify pay Apple? | Technology

Posted on March 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The technology industry is one of the most valuable sectors globally, heavily relying on the unpaid efforts of a small number of enthusiasts.

This reliance is both a boon and a bane for open-source software projects, which are freely available for public use. Some of these projects efficiently solve simple problems, saving unnecessary repetition of work. Others tackle complex tasks that push boundaries.

This dependency is not a secret. In August 2020, webcomic xkcd highlighted this issue by portraying modern digital infrastructure as a delicate tower depending on a project maintained by a random person in Nebraska since 2003.

Moreover, a satirical tweet by Druthers Haver humorously emphasized the importance of unsung heroes like Ronald, who maintains critical technical tools like the UNIX tool called “Rank.”

The most crucial figures in technology are a mix of well-known personalities like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, as well as lesser-known individuals like Ronald, the caretaker of “Rank,” a vital tool that manages calculations for machines worldwide.

These anecdotes reflect reality. A software developer faced a crisis in 2016 when his left-pad code, included in numerous programs, unintentionally caused widespread failures due to a simple name dispute.

Similarly, OpenSSL, a widely used encryption tool, had a severe bug unnoticed for years, compromising online security. The story repeated with Log4j seven years later.

While distributing free software offers many benefits, sustaining its development poses challenges. Various models like paid support and corporate funding have been attempted, with mixed success.

Recently, projects like tea.xyz attempted to reward open-source contributors with crypto tokens but inadvertently attracted spam and low-quality contributions, illustrating the need for better solutions.

The Curious Case of $100

Apple receives its first fine from the EU. Photo: Donisle/Alamy

Apple recently faced a significant fine from the EU, underscoring the regulatory scrutiny on tech giants abusing their market dominance.

The substantial fine indicated the EU’s commitment to curbing anticompetitive behaviors that harm consumers, particularly in the online services sector.

Apple’s hidden rules negatively impacted consumers, leading to higher costs and limited choices in music streaming services.

This incident sheds light on the complex relationships between tech companies, regulators, and consumers, emphasizing the need for fair competition and consumer protection.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple withdraws plans for multi-billion dollar electric car production

Posted on February 28, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple has decided to cancel its plans to develop electric cars, as reported by multiple outlets. The project, known as Project Titan, was a secret endeavor that has utilized significant resources over the past decade. During an internal team meeting on Tuesday, company executives unexpectedly announced layoffs and mentioned that many employees would be reassigned to work on generative artificial intelligence, according to reports.

Apple had invested billions of dollars in developing an electric semi-autonomous car under Project Titan, and the decision to scrap the program represents a significant shift from its previous strategy.

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook had hinted at the company’s car plans in an interview, but did not fully commit to delivering the product as anticipated.

Although Apple never officially confirmed plans for a car, the project sparked speculation in the auto and tech industries. The company even hired executives from major car manufacturers like Lamborghini and Tesla, and acquired a self-driving car startup called Drive.ai in 2019.

Apple did not provide any official statement regarding the termination of the program, leaving many employees who had worked on the project surprised and potentially facing job cuts.

The company’s electric vehicle plans have undergone several changes since their initiation in 2014, facing numerous setbacks in attempts to bring the product to market.

In response to Apple’s decision, Tesla CEO Elon Musk posted a salute and cigarette emoji.

Apple is now focusing more on generative AI projects, reallocating researchers and engineers from the automotive field to special projects within the company.

During a quarterly financial results announcement, Cook hinted at Apple’s increased emphasis on artificial intelligence and the introduction of generative AI capabilities for consumers by the year’s end.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Is Nvidia’s $1 trillion valuation sustainable, or is Apple poised to take the crown?

Posted on February 27, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

EEveryone wants to be like Apple. The world’s largest publicly traded company, with a flagship product that prints money, a cultural footprint that has reached world-historical significance, and the Ford of the 21st century.

At a surface level, it’s clear which companies get hammered in this comparison. If you send out a well-crafted, smartly designed home appliance in a nice box, someone somewhere will compare you to the Cupertino giant.

Digging a little deeper allows for more meaningful comparisons. Apple isn’t just defined by its style, it’s also defined by its focus. A small number of computers, phones, and tablets in a small number of configurations account for most of the revenue.

That focus has allowed the company to develop a reputation for quality. Of course, it also contributed to its formidable media strategy, making every product launch an industry event in a way that few have been able to imitate before. This is what I was thinking nearly a decade ago when I referred to gaming giant Blizzard, creator of World of Warcraft and Diablo, as “his Apple of gaming.” (Now owned by Microsoft and plagued by allegations of misconduct, Blizzard’s star has since fallen.)

But there’s something else that makes Apple what it is today, and it’s difficult for startups to imitate. The Apple they see is just the latest evolution of a company that was an industry giant before the latest generation of founders were born. The Apple II, Mac, and iMac all shaped computing for 25 years before the iPod turned Apple into a consumer electronics company. And the iPod gave Apple another decade of growth and sophistication, until the iPhone came along and created the behemoth it is today.

Now let’s talk about Nvidia.

$1 trillion is not cool

…

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple accuses Spotify of seeking ‘unlimited’ access to its tools for free

Posted on February 23, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple is hitting back at Spotify over an ongoing competition case filed in the EU, which could lead to significant fines if Apple is found guilty.

The federation has completed its investigation into allegations of anti-competitive behavior by Apple regarding the App Store rules for the music streaming service and is expected to levy a fine of €500m (£425m). Apple accused Spotify of seeking access to its tools without paying for them.

Spotify, based in Stockholm, lodged a complaint with the EU in 2019, alleging that the App Store rules restrict choice and competition by imposing a 30% fee on purchases, including music streaming subscriptions. Spotify argued that this fee gives Apple an unfair advantage over its own competing Apple Music streaming service.

Apple responded by stating that Spotify does not offer subscriptions through the App Store, hence does not pay any fees to Apple in the EU.

The European Commission, after a lengthy investigation, found no evidence of consumer harm or anti-competitive behavior by Apple in this market. Apple criticized EU regulators for the prolonged investigation.

Spotify, with over 50% market share in Europe, has access to various advertising channels outside of the App Store to inform users how to subscribe, including email marketing and social media.

Apple also stated that the investigation may further solidify Spotify’s dominant position in the market, rather than fostering competition.

When Spotify filed its complaint in 2019, founder Daniel Ek accused Apple of implementing rules in the App Store that suppress innovation and limit choices.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple advises against using rice to dry wet iPhones; here’s the recommended alternative.

Posted on February 21, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

N
No matter how wet your phone gets, whether it’s caught in a pouring rain, dropped in the bath or in the pool, perhaps the most well-known folk remedies are:
Place the device inside the rice bag. The theory is that the dry, absorbent rice should absorb moisture and help save the device. Experts have been saying it’s a bad idea for years, but now Apple is officially warning users not to do it.

“Don’t put your iPhone inside a rice bag.” Doing so may cause small rice grains to damage your iPhone. ”
the company says
In a recent support note
discovered by macworld. There is a risk of damage and
test suggested
Raw rice is not particularly effective at drying your device.

The origins of this modification may lie in the history of photography.
The Verge traces the method back to 1946
As a way to maintain your camera. During this time, panicked cell phone users have suggested dangerous methods such as attacking the phone with a hair dryer or soaking it in alcohol. So what should you actually do?

Apple is providing guidance for users who see a “liquid detected” warning when trying to charge their phone. First, unplug both ends of the charging cable. Then, “gently tap the phone in your hand with the connector facing down to remove any excess liquid.” Let it dry for at least 30 minutes, and if your phone and cable are “all dry,” try charging your device again. If this attempt fails, try again in one day.

Apple’s new support document includes two other warnings in case your phone becomes intoxicated.

“Do not use an external heat source or compressed air to dry your iPhone.”
“Do not insert foreign objects such as cotton swabs or paper towels into the connector.”

If your phone does not work at all, turn it off immediately and do not press any buttons. The next steps will vary depending on your specific situation, but as a general rule of thumb, dry it with a towel and place it in an airtight container filled with a silica packet if you have one. Do not charge until you are sure it is dry. There are a few other things you should keep in mind if you drop your iPhone in water. Even though many of today’s phones are water resistant, liquid disaster can still creep up on them.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The EU to Receive €500 Million from Apple: Understanding the Impact on Technology

Posted on February 20, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

a
The following week, there was another clash between Apple and European regulators. According to the Financial Times, the company could face a huge fine for alleged anti-competitive conduct in its music streaming business. from that story:

The fine, estimated at around 500 million euros, is expected to be announced early next month and will be exclusive to the European Commission, which is investigating whether Apple used its own platform to favor its own services over those of competitors. This will be the culmination of research into prohibition laws.

The investigation is looking into whether Apple blocked apps from informing iPhone users of cheaper alternatives to access music subscriptions outside the App Store.

The process dates back to a complaint filed by Spotify in 2019. From what we said at the time:

Apple’s app the Store is a key distribution platform for Spotify. However, Apple receives a 30% commission on all sales made through this site. Spotify and many other third-party app developers have long complained that the store (which includes music streaming subscriptions) is an unfair “tax.”

“Apple requires Spotify and other digital services to pay a 30% tax on purchases made through Apple’s payment system, including upgrades from free to premium services.” Said Daniel Ekco-founder of Spotify, chief executive officer in a blog post.

“If we pay this tax, we will be forced to artificially inflate the price of premium membership far above the regular price.” Apple Music. And keeping prices competitive for our customers is beyond our control. ”

For more information on the fine itself, Dan Milmo explains.

In the years since then, complaints have diminished somewhat. Apple declined to respond directly to the FT’s report, saying it does not comment on speculation, but pointed to the European Commission’s decision last year to exclude the “tax” aspect from an investigation launched by Spotify. ‘s complaint. The revised counter statement states that the main harm is no longer the 30% fee levied by apps that use in-app purchases or the requirement to offer them in the first place, but simply the fact that other payment options exist for users. It was forbidden to communicate.

“We are pleased that the European Commission has narrowed the issue and no longer challenges Apple’s right to collect fees on digital goods and require the use of in-app payment systems that users trust,” Apple said in a statement. Ta. time.

These so-called “anti-steering” rules have been tested by regulators around the world, and various jurisdictions have placed formal limits on Apple’s ability to impose them. But these restrictions rarely go as far as competitors like Spotify would like. Because Apple is letting out a sharp gasp. If forced to do so, companies could direct users to alternative payment methods and still charge fees. In some cases, that new fee accounted for 27% of costs, and his 3% reduction in in-app purchase fees was justified on the basis that it reflected the fact that Apple was not paying directly for credit card processing. I am.

“We are currently negotiating the price.”

Spotify on Apple Watch. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Assuming the fine is imposed as expected, Apple is unlikely to be too disappointed. The Digital Markets Act, which Apple and other “tech gatekeepers” must comply with by March 6, has already forced changes to the App Store that will put Apple Music in unfair competition with Spotify. The Competition Commission’s concerns will almost certainly be corrected. As for the cash itself, “500 million isn’t a laughable amount, even for a company as big as Apple, but it’s a fraction of the maximum potential, and it’s a fraction of the company’s total.” An even smaller amount’ of annual profit.

In fact, it’s possible that Apple will avoid fines with dignity. The company hammers home one of its core points every time it is hit by regulatory action that leaves room for compromises, such as imposing a 27% fee on outside purchases. That is, the real criticism is not about the lofty points. Basically, it’s a simple haggling over fees. If complaints about Apple’s control of the App Store boil down to “I want to pay less,” that would be an easier fight than one that would force Apple to actually relinquish control of the platform.

Some critics make deeper claims. Spotify, for example, has long complained about more detailed aspects of Apple’s platform, from the fact that Apple Music is installed by default on its devices to the way platform owners break their own rules about free. I’ve been holding you. Trials (Apple can independently offer trials that end the moment they are canceled; all third parties must provide access until just before the first billing deadline).

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For others, the gist of the principle is poor in reality. Epic Games famously introduced a unique payment process for Fortnite, which resulted in Apple pulling the game from the App Store. The company already pays hefty cuts to operate its gaming consoles and operates its own app store for PCs. Issues with Apple have always been viewed through the lens of how much Apple pays.

Perhaps this is why Epic is also the longtime Apple critic most eager to enter the world of an EU-mandated alternative App Store. You may remember the debate over whether the company’s proposals amounted to “garbage” or meaningful concessions. Well, three weeks have passed,
Epic Games announces the launch of Epic Games Store for iOS.

This is a bold move. The company will immediately pay him 0.50 euros for every download on the store, and an additional 0.50 euros for every download of Fortnite via the store after his first 1 million. But compared to keeping it on the App Store, per user he should be able to get that amount back in one “Battle Pass” purchase. And to the company’s credit, it clearly believes the principles exist. At risk.

Cash is also constantly flushed in case it takes longer to break even. The company, which is run by founder and CEO Tim Sweeney and has a 40% minority stake held by China’s Tencent, announced earlier this month that it will become the world’s leading company in the world of gaming and entertainment. The collaboration required a $1.5 billion investment from Disney. Disney is a long-time ally of Apple, and its CEO was on Apple’s board of directors until 2019, but competition between Apple TV+ and Disney+ made that unsustainable. . We haven’t seen the beginnings of a messy breakup yet, but perhaps even the House of Mouse will want to pay a smaller share of the world’s most valuable company.

If you want to read the full newsletter, subscribe to receive TechScape in your inbox every Tuesday.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple fined 500 million euros by EU for music streaming practices

Posted on February 20, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple faces a €500m (£427m) fine for unfairly influencing competitors in the music streaming market, according to the Financial Times. The European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, will impose the penalty following an extensive investigation.

Why is Apple facing the prospect of fines?

After Spotify filed complaints in 2019, the EU began examining Apple’s position in the music streaming app market. The focus was narrowed down to specific restrictions placed by Apple on app developers, preventing them from informing iPhone and iPad users about more affordable music subscriptions outside of the App Store. Spotify claims this favors Apple Music, the company’s rival app.

This case is the latest in a series of legal disputes involving Apple’s App Store, which has been criticized by the companies utilizing it for its rules and charges. Apple recently announced that it would allow EU customers to download apps without going through its own store, a concession made under pressure from the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).

What does the EU think about Apple’s actions?

The EU did not comment directly, but when Apple issued a new statement of objection in February of the previous year, it suggested that the company would be penalized for unfair trading conditions violating Article 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. The Commission expressed concerns that the restrictions can prevent developers from informing consumers about affordable streaming service subscriptions.

What happens next?

The Financial Times reported that the Commission will announce the fine in the early part of the next month. The maximum fine for anti-competitive behavior is 10% of global turnover, which, in Apple’s case, could be up to $30bn (£24bn), although the final amount is expected to be lower. Apple may appeal the Commission’s decision.

What are Apple and Spotify saying?

Apple and Spotify declined to comment on Monday. However, Apple has previously defended its App Store, stating that it has aided Spotify in becoming Europe’s top music streaming service.

Spotify, on the other hand, has emphasized its complaint against Apple’s aim to establish a “level playing field,” arguing that the App Store restrictions give preference to Apple Music, the company’s own streaming service.

What do the experts say?

Ann Witt, a professor of antitrust law at France’s EDHEC Business School, remarked that Apple is already confronting a stringent regulatory environment with the introduction of the DMA. The Open Market Institute opined that the size of the reported fine will not have a significant impact on Apple’s behavior.

Source: www.theguardian.com

500 million euro fine imposed on Apple by EU for restricting music streaming access, according to reports in technology sector

Posted on February 19, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple has reportedly been fined 500 million euros by the European Union over restricting access to its music streaming service, in what would be a landmark blow to the US technology company.

The European Commission is investigating whether Apple prevented music streamers from telling users cheaper ways to subscribe outside of the app store.

According to the Financial Times, the city of Brussels plans to impose a €500m (£427m) fine, a landmark move against Apple after years of complaints from companies offering services through iPhone apps. This is a judgment.

In 2019, Swedish streaming company Spotify filed a complaint with the EU, accusing Apple of limiting choice and competition in its app store by imposing a 30% fee on all purchases. Apple also blocked Spotify and other companies from notifying customers on their phones that they could avoid fees and get better deals simply by signing up on Spotify's website.

Apple says its fees are justified because it spends a lot of money providing a secure app store and gives Spotify access to hundreds of millions of customers. However, Spotify argues that Apple Music, Apple's own music streaming service, does not incur similar additional costs, giving Spotify an advantage and making the rates non-competitive.

The European Commission said Apple's actions were illegal and contrary to European Union rules forcing competition in the single market, the FT reported, citing five people close to the investigation. would argue. The commission could also reportedly ban practices that prevent music services from advertising cheaper subscriptions off-platform.

Apple was fined 1.1 billion euros by France in 2020 for anti-competition agreements with two wholesalers, but has never been hit with a competition fine by the European Commission.

But IT and other big tech companies are under increasing scrutiny due to competitive concerns. Google is appealing against fines of more than 8 billion euros imposed by the EU in three separate competition investigations. Apple lost a lawsuit by Fortnite developer Epic Games that claimed its app store was an illegal monopoly, but Epic won a similar lawsuit against Google, which runs Android phone software, in December. .

Last month, Apple announced it would allow EU customers to download apps without going through its own app store, in response to the EU's digital markets law. The law, whose details were revealed last year, imposes new obligations on “gatekeepers” such as Amazon and Google, which are particularly powerful in controlling the choice of mobile phone software.

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The European Commission declined to comment. Apple had no new comments, but pointed to its previous statement that it would respond to the commission's concerns “while promoting competition and choice for European consumers.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

I experimented with Apple Vision Pro and it gave me a fright – Arwa Mahdawi

Posted on February 15, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

IIf you’re worried that technology is getting a little too intelligent and robots are on the verge of taking over the world, there’s a simple way to ease your fears. Call the company and ask some simple questions. He is put through an automated voice system and spends the next 10 minutes yelling, “No, I didn’t say that!” What do you mean by “I didn’t really understand”? We don’t need that option! Make me human, damn it!

That was certainly my experience when I called Apple to try and reconfirm the Vision Pro demo, which was abruptly canceled due to snow. But if my phone experience felt dated, the Apple Vision Pro headset itself felt like an amazing glimpse into the future. Not surprisingly, its price is $3,499.

I think my expectations were pretty low. For the last decade or so, we’ve been told that virtual reality and augmented reality are just around the corner, but they’ve consistently failed to break into the mainstream. The headset was clunky and impractical, the price was prohibitive, and the experience itself, while impressive, wasn’t necessarily awe-inspiring. Metaverse, a rebrand of virtual reality, was similarly disappointing.

But the Vision Pro really impressed me. I felt like Usher and kept saying “wow” throughout the demo. The Vision Pro is branded as a “spatial computing” rather than an entertainment device and is intended to be used for everything from answering emails to browsing the Internet. Navigate with your eyes and scroll by pinching your fingers or moving your hand. He is conducting an invisible orchestra.

Despite all the use cases on the market, its most impressive aspect is immersive video. Everything else feels like a bit of a gimmick. Do you want to see computer apps floating in front of your eyes? Not so much! But when you watch a movie, you feel like you’re drawn into the content. If money wasn’t an issue, I would have bought a headset right away just because watching movies is so much fun.

And that’s basically the scope of the market for Vision Pro at this point. In other words, people who have nothing to do with money. The headset is impressive, but it’s still not very comfortable (I’m lucky to be able to drink coffee while wearing it) and it’s not worth the price. This technology is still in its infancy and will take some time to become widespread in broader culture.

But while it’s hard to say when spatial computing will become as ubiquitous as smartphones are today, it’s clear that the question is when it will be widely adopted, not if. There is no denying that we are moving towards a world where “real life” and digital technology seamlessly merge. The internet is moving from our screens to the world around us. And it raises serious questions about how we perceive the world and think about reality. Big tech companies are rushing to get the technology out there, but it’s unclear how worried they are about the consequences.

Some of these outcomes are easy to predict. In a few weeks’ time, you’ll almost certainly hear about a car accident caused by someone using a headset while driving. There are already a lot of videos out there of people using the Vision His Pro while out and about, including in the car. (Incidentally, while Apple advises people not to use headsets while driving, it doesn’t have guardrails to prevent people behind the wheel from using the technology.)

And without some radical intervention, it seems depressingly inevitable that these headsets will soon take online harassment to a whole other level. Over the years, there have been multiple reports of people being harassed and even “raped” within the Metaverse. The highly immersive nature of virtual reality makes the experience feel frighteningly real. With the lines between real life and the digital world blurring to the point of being almost indistinguishable, is there a meaningful difference between attacks online and attacks in real life?

Even scarier, and more broadly, is the question of how spatial computing will change what we think of as reality. Researchers at Stanford University and the University of Michigan recently studied the Vision Pro and other “pass-through” headsets, a feature that brings VR content into a real-world environment and allows you to see what’s around you while using the device. (This is a technical term referring to It has emerged with some stark warnings about how this technology will rewire our brains. interfere with social connections).

These headsets basically give us all our private worlds and rewrite the concept of shared reality. The camera you use to see the world allows you to edit your environment. For example, you can wear a camera and go to the store. Then all the homeless people will disappear from your sight and the sky may become brighter.

“What we’re going to experience is that when you use these headsets in public, you lose that common ground,” said the director of Stanford University’s Virtual Human Interaction Lab and lead researcher on the study. Jeremy Bailenson, one of them, recently said: Said Business Insider. “People will be physically in the same place and visually experience different versions of the world at the same time. We’re going to lose what we have in common.”

What’s scary isn’t just the fact that our perception of reality might change. It’s the fact that a small number of companies will have a lot of control over how we see the world. Consider how much influence big tech companies already have over the content we watch. And it’s multiplied by millions. Do you think deepfakes are scary? Wait until they look more realistic.

We are seeing a global increase authoritarianism. If we’re not careful, this kind of technology will significantly accelerate that. Is it possible to draw people into another world, numb them with entertainment, and determine how they see reality? It is an authoritarian’s dream. We are entering an era in which we can coax and manipulate people like never before. Forget Mussolini’s bread and circuses, up-and-coming fascists now have donuts and vision pros.

Do you have an opinion on the issues raised in this article? Click here if you would like to email your answer of up to 300 words to be considered for publication in our email section.

Source: www.theguardian.com

British inventor embroiled in intense patent battle with Apple over $18 billion

Posted on January 21, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

aA big name in the plumbing industry. Patrick Lutz They were used to withstanding floods. But the circumstances led to a completely different kind of soaking, sitting in the rain in a local park and pondering the demise of the business in the dot-com crash. “I lost everything. I had a young child. I was embarrassed and angry that I had let my family down. I couldn't look them in the face,” he said. look back.

His lowest point came just before the patent battle with Apple erupted that would define his life. Nearly two decades later, he's still at odds with his company and the U.S. courts.

He presents an interesting profile. The reputable and established British inventor, who first found wealth and success in the 1980s, now dominates his online reputation, leaving onlookers wondering whether Raz or Apple is in the right. After years of David vs. Goliath dogfights, he was clearly feeling hurt and angry. It's on the right.

Racz is the creator of Triflow, the world's first three-way mixer faucet. This system added additional channels and valves to a typical sink mixer to deliver filtered water along with hot and cold water. A “multi-million pound” sale in 1998 sealed his profits after expanding the business to sell in 45 countries.

But he says the second chapter turned rocky when his dot-com-era venture, a file-sharing and payments technology company, was taken over by Apple's iTunes store. He claims that a US company stole his system.

“I went through a period of severe depression,” Raz said, opening up for the first time about the mental strain. “I'm embarrassed to say that I hit the bottle. I got completely lost in time and didn't remember much.”

It was a patent for the technology, first filed in 1999 and granted almost a decade later, that gave him a “new lease on life” and is still in the process of seeking $18 billion in damages. A large-scale legal battle has begun.

Apple is no stranger to patent disputes like this. U.S. sales of Apple's Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches were suspended before Christmas due to a conflict with medical technology company Masimo. Mr. Lutz has won several rounds of court action against the company, but there is no guarantee that either side will ultimately prevail. The only certainty is that the road ahead will be long, winding and expensive.

Racz grew up on a strawberry farm in Jersey and spent his early career as a salesman. When he sold his tap business, Avillion, he pursued the digital download market in the same way that Napster transformed the music industry with illegal file sharing.

Racz quickly filed a patent for Smartflash, an anti-piracy alternative, and an accompanying system for enabling payments and secure downloads. He has finalized deals with retailers and manufacturers, including French SIM card company Gemplus. Pop star Britney Spears has been appointed as a brand ambassador.

But in the aftermath of 9/11 and the dot-com crash, Spears and GemPlus withdrew, and Luck's said in court that GemPlus, also an Apple partner, subsequently claimed the product as its own. .

The late Apple president Steve Jobs is “soaking in praise” for a series of products, starting with iTunes in 2003, that blended hardware and software in a way Raz claims he first invented. His blood boiled when he saw it. After receiving patent approval in 2008, he achieved an unlikely victory. He sued Apple in Texas in 2015 and won $533 million in damages. According to Lutz, this was one of the largest jury awards for a private inventor.

However, the court's decision was later reversed. He was first hurt by a U.S. Patent Trial and Appeals Board ruling that his patent was invalid, and then lost when Apple appealed in commercial court. He later lost his case on appeal, but he vowed to keep fighting. He has faced considerable backlash among Apple supporters online in recent years, including receiving death threats via email from unknown individuals.

“When you're told your kids should be burned at the stake and beheaded for what they do, those things start to get hard. My kids were being bullied. The kids said, “Your dad says he invented this, but he didn't steal it. Apple invented it.'' Your dad is a liar.'' The Rats were having coffee in London. I say this while drinking. He's tall and stocky, with close-cropped dark hair, and he's still visibly furious as he tells his story.

Lutz's latest battle is with the U.S. Patent Office, which he is suing for refusing to release uncensored emails and documents related to his intellectual property. He seeks to prove that the group of judges was intentionally populated with former lawyers and close Apple supporters. Lutz argues that the company has used its “wealth and power” to influence the U.S. patent system.

Asked for comment, Apple pointed to a previous statement issued in 2015, saying: “SmartFlash makes no products, has no employees, does not create jobs, has no presence in the United States, and uses our patent system to seek royalties for technology invented by Apple. They are abusing it.”

“We refused to reimburse the company for the ideas our employees spent years innovating. Unfortunately, we are left with no other option but to take this fight to court.”

Gem Plus did not respond to a request for comment.

Away from legal pursuits, he is a supporter of Regent Sounds, a music store on Denmark Street in central London. The music store, once used as a studio by the Rolling Stones, has been locked in its own battle with its landlord behind a major development by media venture Outernet. .

His main mission remains to tell his story.he wrote smart flashHe has written an autobiography titled “, and there is interest from a publisher. His friend Simon Morris, Amazon's former global chief creative officer and the man behind Amazon Prime Video, struck a deal to sell the rights to a documentary about Ratt's life and persuaded the studio to pursue the project. I'm selling it.

Meanwhile, Latz continues to focus on his legal work and is supported by private investors who will share in his winnings. “They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. That made me even more determined.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple overtakes Samsung to claim the title of world’s top smartphone seller

Posted on January 17, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Apple overtook Samsung as the world’s top smartphone seller, ending the South Korean tech company’s 12-year reign as the industry leader.

According to statistics from International Data Corporation (IDC), iPhone sold 234.6 million units in 2023, overtaking Samsung’s 226.6 million units.

IDC said Apple’s laurels with the launch of the iPhone 15 in September were due to trends such as the growing popularity of high-end devices, which now account for more than 20% of the market.

“The last time a company other than Samsung topped the smartphone market was in 2010, and in 2023, it is now Apple,” IDC said. “A sort of change in power at the top in the largest consumer electronics market was propelled by Apple’s record market share, putting it on top for the first time.”

The $2.8 trillion (£2.2 trillion) US tech company had a 20.1% market share, ahead of Samsung’s 19.4%, according to IDC. Apple has established itself as the largest smartphone maker in terms of sales and profits, but this is the first time it has led the market in terms of unit sales.

The sales data was released ahead of the launch of Samsung’s latest models on Wednesday, with the South Korean conglomerate expected to launch the Galaxy S24, S24 Plus and S24 Ultra with features powered by artificial intelligence.

Ben Wood, principal analyst at research firm CCS Insight, said the IDC data was a “mental” blow to Samsung, but he expected the competition to remain close this year.

“While I think it will remain a close race throughout 2024, there is little doubt that Apple is on a strong trajectory, and the loyalty that consumers have for Apple devices will continue to grow once they are acquired,” he said. This means that they rarely switch to something else.”

Wood said this data further emphasizes the importance of Samsung’s new product announcements on Wednesday.

“This means Samsung needs to do everything it can to not only attract new customers for its devices, but also to retain existing users.”

IDC also pointed to the increasing fragmentation of the smartphone market running on the Android operating system, citing low-end Samsung rivals such as Transsion, Xiaomi, Honor and Google.

IDC said the success of Huawei products, which were well-received in China, also contributed to Samsung’s sales decline. The data provider added that Huawei remains a competitive threat to Apple in China, the US company’s biggest market.

Global smartphone shipments fell 3.2% to 1.17 billion units in 2023, according to IDC, but the group said the industry is recovering after a downturn.

IDC added: “Growth in the second half of this year solidified the recovery expected in 2024.”

Last week, Apple was overtaken by Microsoft as the world’s most valuable company at $2.9 trillion.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Microsoft Surpasses Apple to Reclaim Title of Most Valuable Company after Two Years

Posted on January 13, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Microsoft's stock closed above Apple's for the first time since 2021 on Friday, making it the world's most valuable company, as demand concerns hit the iPhone maker's stock price.

On Friday, Apple rose 0.2% and Microsoft rose 1%. This brings Microsoft's market capitalization to $2.887 trillion, an all-time high, according to LSEG data. Apple's market capitalization, calculated based on Thursday's filing data, was $2.875 trillion.

Concerns about smartphone demand have pushed Apple stock down 3% so far in 2024 after rising 48% last year. Microsoft is up about 3% since the beginning of the year after soaring 57% in 2023 on a bull run driven in part by its lead in generative artificial intelligence through its investment in ChatGPT maker OpenAI.

According to LSEG, Apple's market capitalization peaked at $3.081 trillion on December 14th.

Microsoft is incorporating OpenAI's technology into its suite of productivity software, which helped fuel a recovery in its cloud computing business in the July-September quarter. His AI leadership at the company has also created an opportunity to challenge Google's dominance in web search.

Meanwhile, Apple is grappling with sluggish demand, including for its cash cow iPhone. Demand in China, a major market, is sluggish as the Chinese economy has been slow to recover from the coronavirus pandemic and a revived Huawei is eating away at market share.

Sales of Apple's Vision Pro mixed reality headset will begin in the US on February 2nd, marking Apple's biggest product launch since the iPhone in 2007. However, UBS estimated in a report this week that Vision Pro sales are “relatively insignificant” to Apple. Earnings per share in 2024.

Since 2018, Microsoft briefly overtook Apple as the most valuable company, and most recently in 2021, when concerns about pandemic-related supply chain shortages affected the iPhone maker's stock price.

In its latest quarterly report in November, Apple gave a holiday quarter sales forecast that was lower than Wall Street's expectations due to weak demand for iPads and wearables.

Analysts on average expect Apple's December quarter sales to rise 0.7% to $117.9 billion, according to LSEG. As a result, sales will increase year-on-year for the first time in four quarters. Apple announced its financial results on February 1st.

Analysts expect Microsoft to report a 16% increase in revenue to $61.1 billion in the coming weeks due to continued growth in its cloud business.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Apple Ex-Employee’s iPhone Keyboard Hack Simplifies Screen Use

Posted on December 27, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Here are some easy ways to impress the people at Genius Bar. A former Apple employee shares an easy-to-do keyboard hack that makes inputting numbers, especially numbers, smoother for users. In TikTok clip Viewed 17 million times technologist-turned-musician Tyler Morgan shows off features hidden in plain sight that allow you to do things like numeric keyboard shortcuts. He also introduced a fun “Harry Potter” command that Siri uses to turn the flashlight on and off. Just say “Lumos” (a Hogwarts spell that creates light on the tip of a wizard’s wand, etc.) and your iPhone’s flashlight will turn on. Conversely, if you say “Knox,” the light on your wand will go out and your flashlight will magically go out. Users can also ask Siri to identify songs playing in the background. Morgan said in another video additionally proven We recommend taking a screenshot of the entire web page, not just a portion of what’s on your screen. After you take a shot, there is an option to create and save a PDF in the top right part of your iPhone screen. Just tap Entire Page on the right side of the Screen tab. Keyboard hacks to try today Here are some easy iPhone keyboard hacks that are worth trying. AFP (via Getty Images) A simple and very effective way to enable Caps Lock on your iPhone keyboard is to double-tap the uppercase up arrow symbol. This will allow you to type uppercase letters until you turn the feature off. If you press and hold a letter, you can easily see different versions of the accented letter on top of the letter without having to install an international keyboard. Morgan’s tips also include a convenient way to display the numeric keyboard and automatically revert to the alphabet keys after use. Just press and hold the “123” tab in the bottom left corner while viewing the alphabet. When you enter a number, the screen temporarily changes to a numeric keypad, and when you release “123” it returns to letters. Here are some easy ways to get the most out of your iPhone’s keyboard. Dear Grease – Stock.adobe.com Also, if you accidentally press and hold the wrong number or symbol, keep your finger on the screen and slide it to change it to the number or symbol you actually want. Another useful tip is that if you hold down the spacebar, the cursor will move freely and easily through large groups of text like a mouse.

Source: nypost.com

Technology companies express concerns over potential “irreparable harm” due to White House-backed sales suspension of Apple Watch | Science and Technology News

Posted on December 27, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Apple expressed concerns about potential “irreparable harm” after the White House backed a ban on imports of certain watches due to a dispute over blood oxygen technology.

The tech giant has submitted an emergency motion to the court, seeking permission to continue selling two popular models, the Series 9 and Ultra 2, until the patent dispute with medical monitoring tech company Masimo is resolved.

Apple has requested the ban to be temporarily lifted until U.S. Customs determines whether a redesigned version of its watch infringes Masimo’s patents, with a decision expected on January 12th.

Masimo has accused Apple of stealing pulse oximetry technology for monitoring blood oxygen levels and incorporating it into their watch, as well as luring some of its employees to switch to Apple.

The US ITC has ordered a ban on the import and sale of models utilizing blood oxygen level reading technology.

Wealth management analyst Dan Ives stated that the halt in watch sales before the holiday season could cost Apple $300-400 million, but the company is still expected to make nearly $120 billion in sales for the quarter, including the holiday period.

Read more:
– Have an old iPhone? You could be entitled to compensation in a UK court case
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U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai upheld the ITC’s decision, but previously purchased Apple Watches with blood oxygen measurement capabilities are not affected by the ban.

Apple contests the ITC’s decision, claiming it is based on factual errors and that Masimo does not sell significant quantities of competing products in the U.S., and would not be harmed by a ban on orders.

Source: news.sky.com

Apple Vision Pro Expected to Launch between Late January and Early February

Posted on December 26, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

We’ve known about the Vision Pro for more than six months now (not to mention it’s been rumored for years), but Apple’s first “spatial computing” device is expected to arrive in consumer electronics heading into the new year. One of the biggest question marks. The $3,499 headset was given an “early 2024” release date when it was announced at WWDC in June, but the company hasn’t provided further specifics since then.

Apple oracle Ming-Chi Kuo Provided an early holiday gift He narrowed down the system’s release date to “late January to early February.” According to the analyst, the first Vision Pro will be shipped to Apple within about a month, bringing the total number of units shipped this year to about 500,000 units.

Company’s accurate target There are still open-ended questions remaining for this year. About a month after the device was announced, it was reported that Apple had reduced its forecast from around 1 million units to “less than 400,000 units.”

Even the latest figure of 500,000 is small for a company of Apple’s enormous size and influence. Keep in mind that the company should ship more than 200 million iPhones this calendar year.

But Vision Pro is widely considered to be Tim Cook’s biggest challenge in his 12 years as CEO. Not only is this an entirely new category and form factor for the company, but it’s also an exorbitant price point, even for customers accustomed to paying extra for Apple products. Add to that the fact that VR has not lived up to expectations for decades, and we have a big uphill battle ahead.

Kuo calls Vision Pro “Apple’s most important product in 2024.” That’s a tough statement to argue with, given years of speculation and all the time and money the company has undoubtedly poured into the headset.

Source: techcrunch.com

US Ban on Apple Watch Upheld

Posted on December 26, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

The recent US ban on Apple Watch imports will continue even after the Biden administration takes office. refused to exercise the right of veto Previous rulings by the International Trade Commission. The ITC’s ruling takes effect today.

The company previously halted sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in anticipation of the ban, suspending online sales on December 21 and in-store sales three days later.

A statement released this morning by the Office of the United States Trade Representative said: [Katherine] Mr. Tai decided not to overturn the ITC’s decision, and the ITC’s decision became final on December 26, 2023. ”

Apple firmly refuted the two patent infringement claims behind the ban by health tech company Masimo. In a statement provided to TechCrunch, Apple promised to continue fighting this decision while touting the device’s healthcare features.

At Apple, we’re passionate about creating products and services that have a meaningful impact on people’s lives. That’s why our teams (clinical, design, and engineering) spend years developing scientifically validated health, fitness, and wellness features for Apple Watch that millions of people around the world benefit from. We are inspired by the tremendous benefits people are receiving from this product. We strongly disagree with the USITC’s decision and the resulting exclusion order, and are taking every step to return Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to U.S. customers as quickly as possible.

Apple also appealed this decision to the Federal Circuit. This decision stems from the light-based pulse oximetry sensor introduced in the Watch Series 6 in 2020. Masimo also accuses Apple of poaching employees to implement the technology in its smartwatch products.

In a statement released shortly after the ITC decision in October, Masimo founder and CEO Joe Chiani said: This important decision is a strong demonstration of our commitment to holding Apple accountable for its misappropriation of our patented technology. ”

Kiani has continued to attack the company in a series of interviews in recent weeks.

Although currently banned in the US, the Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 are still available for purchase outside the country. Meanwhile, the Watch SE continues to be sold in the US as more budget-oriented options don’t utilize the same sensor technology.

Source: techcrunch.com

Former Apple Employee Shares iPhone Hacks to Extend Battery Life

Posted on December 24, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

The average American checks their cell phone Average 96 times per dayor once every 10 minutes.

To better cope with such heavy usage, a former Apple employee shared the best battery-saving hacks to help users see and scroll through TikTok texts throughout the day.

Tyler Morgan, who previously worked in sales at Apple and recently received 11.1 million views, has revealed the best tips and tricks to preserve battery power. Check him out @hitomidocameraroll or watch the video on TikTok.

First, Morgan warned users not to charge their iPhones to 100% or overnight. Instead, he recommended only allowing the battery to reach 80% to prevent chemical degradation once it reaches a full charge. Users can go to “Settings, Battery, Battery Health and Charging, [charging optimization]” to set a limit of 80%.

Morgan also recommended turning off background activity by going to Settings, General, and clicking Background App Refresh. He explains that all the apps running in the background use battery power to keep them updated, so users can switch to updating only on Wi-Fi or when opened.

Morgan suggested iPhone users turn off the “Hey, Siri” feature in Siri and Search for those who don’t rely on their personal assistant. He also recommended going to “Accessibility”, “Motion” and clicking “Reduce Motion” to save battery life.

Morgan then advised users to turn off automatic updates and reduce brightness and Bluetooth usage. He acknowledged that it might make the phone experience worse but could be useful in saving battery. He also showed viewers how to use iPhone features more efficiently, such as opening the video feature directly from the camera app and using the one-handed keyboard option.

This helpful hack comes after users experienced rapid battery drain and expressed privacy concerns following the iOS 17 upgrade. The latest software improvements, iPhone Operating System 17.2, include bug fixes related to virtual car keys and financial features, addressing these security concerns.

Source: nypost.com

Apple releases unexpected iOS 17.2.1 update to address iPhone glitches

Posted on December 24, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Apple on Tuesday issued a surprise update to all iPhone users that promises to fix a number of bugs. However, what exactly those fixes are remains a mystery.

“This update contains important bug fixes and is recommended for all users.” Poor explanation of iOS 17.2.1 status.

The technology company released iOS 17.2.1 just a week after rolling out iOS 17.2. iOS 17.2 included a number of innovative features, including a new Journal app and upgraded security measures.

This also comes just days after Apple announced the beta version of iOS 17.3, leaving many users confused as to why another minor update would be pushed in before the update was widely released. It becomes.

Technical experts said that while the English release did not include details of bug fixes, both the Japanese and Chinese versions had “an issue that could cause the battery to drain quickly under certain conditions. ”, he said, promising to address the issue.

Rapid battery drain seems to be a widespread issue among users after updating their iPhones to previous iOS updates, with many owners complaining about the X.

No details were provided for the iOS 17.2.1 update other than a promise that it would include “important bug fixes.” apple

“Battery life on iOS 17.2 on iPhone 15 Pro Max is terrible. SOT is barely 5-6 hours. Previously it was like 8-9 hours.” Technology Content Creator Sharon Bava wrote.

Apple did not immediately respond to the Post’s request for comment.

Although Apple recommends the latest update for all users, this update does not appear to be urgent.

This was not released as a quick security response and may indicate that the security issue has not been addressed.

The tech company is releasing iOS 17.2.1 in time for the holiday season so new users can update their devices before the holiday distractions or get a new device ready to give as a gift. It could have been done.

iPhones have recently been the victim of spyware attacks, so Apple is beefing up its security features.

Last week, the company released Stolen Device Protection in iOS 17.3 developer beta, which prevents thieves from accessing smartphones with stolen passwords.

This new feature specifically requires users to use biometric access codes, such as their face or fingerprint, when changing their Apple ID password, removing Face ID, and using other sensitive features.

Whenever a user’s device is in an unfamiliar location, stolen device protection is initiated and the user is then required to complete the aforementioned protocol.

Source: nypost.com