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- Friday September 20
- 11:49 amUnboxing the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Apple Watch Series 10
Apple's iPhone 16 Pro Max and Apple Watch Series 10 are larger devices — but they seem to come in smaller packages every year.Unboxing the iPhone 16 Pro MaxLet's see if Apple's Journal app picks up on today's unboxing and recommends an entry about it. While in every case it is the device itself we believe we've paid for, part of our money does go on the packaging — and it's remarkable how well Apple does this.It may seem a bit much to praise a box or two, but fine. The ever-shrinking Apple packaging is no casual afterthought, it is always precision designed to use the least material, but remain strong enough to survive being transported around the world. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums11:15 amWhy I’m switching from an iPhone 15 Pro Max to an iPhone 16 Plus
Macworld For the past several iPhone generations, I’ve owned a Pro model. First it was the size—I bought an iPhone 13 Pro Max before the Plus phone was a thing—but it’s other features as well: the ProMotion display, 5X telephoto camera, A17 Pro chip, Dynamic Island, and so on. I’ve never really considered not getting a Pro model… until this year. For the first time since the iPhone 12, I’m getting a “standard” iPhone this year, the iPhone 16 Plus. There’s a variety of reasons, which I’ll explain below, but the main factor in my decision is that the Pro features are higher-end than I need. The biggest exclusive new features this year are Dolby Vision up to 4K at 120 fps and slightly larger screens, neither of which makes the higher-end iPhones a must-have, at least for me. Of course, it’ll be a downgrade in some areas, mainly the display. While the iPhone 16 Plus is the same size as the iPhone 15 Pro Max it’ll be replacing, I’m giving up ProMotion and the always-on display. To prepare myself, I turned off always-on and limited the display to 60Hz (Settings >Accessibility >Motion >Limit Frame Rate) and it hasn’t been as bad as I thought. After a day or so, I barely noticed. Otherwise, most of the new features are available on the standard models, including Camera Control and the new Photographic Styles. And compared to previous years, the Pro and regular models aren’t all that different: Processor: After a generation gap on the iPhone 15 and 14 models, the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models each have an A18 chip. The main difference is an extra GPU core on the A18 Pro, but most users are very unlikely to notice. Camera: There still isn’t a telephoto lens on the standard models, but the hardware gets an upgrade to a 48MP Fusion camera, along with numerous new features, including spatial photos and videos, and the latest Photographic Styles. But the biggest upgrade to the standard phones is Apple’s excellent macro mode, which has been a Pro exclusive for years. Display: The Pro models get ever so slightly larger displays and still have ProMotion 120Hz displays as an exclusive feature for the high-end phones. As I said above, adaptive refresh is nice but Apple’s 60Hz screens are still quite good. And all phones get the one new feature this year: brightness that goes all the way down to 1 nit. Design: Once again, the iPhone 16 Pro models are made of titanium versus the aluminum on the standard models. (Though the Plus models are still slightly heavier than their standard counterparts.) The designs are very similar to last year’s model as well, but the standard models get a much smaller and svelter camera array. Colors: The Pro colors are once again very drab and dull while the standard models get much brighter hues. I ordered teal, and after using Natural Titanium for the last 12 months I’m looking forward to some color. Otherwise, the phones are essentially the same: 5G, faster MagSafe charging, and of course, Apple Intelligence. Apple has significantly diminished the gap between the standard and Pro phones this year, and while I’m going to miss some Pro features, the iPhone 16 Plus has nearly everything I need. So I’m going to try out the standard iPhone for a year. And save a few hundred bucks in the process.10:42 amIt’s iPhone 16 day: Official photos from Apple Stores around the world
The iPhone 16 is arriving in Apple stores today, and we’ve already seen people sharing photos from Apple Stores in Australia, Malaysia, Japan, and Germany. Apple has now started sharing official photos from Apple stores, kicking off this year’s collection with photos from China and South Korea … more…10:30 amThe ‘new’ AirPods Max are another lazy Apple update no one wants
Macworld Every fall, like clockwork, Apple announces a new generation of iPhones. But other products are refreshed on a more relaxed basis: the AirPods Max, for example, came out in December 2020 and didn’t get an update until earlier this month. Still, at least Apple made up for lost time and gave them a really thorough update, bringing them up to date with the latest audio developments, right? Right? Well. Look at it this way: a good hardware update fixes the problems with the previous model. (A revolutionary hardware update rethinks the entire product from the ground up, but we won’t set the bar that high for now.) My exemplar of a good hardware update is the mighty Apple Watch Series 2, which addressed the speed, battery life, and water resistance problems, as well as the lack of GPS, which reviewers had flagged with the original model. It didn’t reinvent the wheel, but it made the ride a whole lot smoother. So do the 2024 AirPods Max, available today for $549, match the Apple Watch Series 2? Do they feature fixes for the issues we highlighted in our review at the start of 2021? After all, Apple has had more than three and a half years to find a better way. Let’s look at the evidence, starting with the problems that were apparent at launch. Issue: The AirPods Max, while comfortable, are excessively heavy: 40-50 percent heavier than competing wireless noise-cancelling headphones.Fix: None. It’s the same design. Issue: Lack of sweat/waterproofing.Fix: Again, none. Issue: There’s no 3.5mm headphone jack.Fix: We still don’t get 3.5mm. The USB-C port is more versatile than Lightning but based on Apple’s announcement it appears to be for charging only, not music input. Issue: They still have a Lightning port.Fix: The AirPods Max now have USB-C. Issue: The Smart Case is very poorly designed and provides almost no protection.Fix: None. It’s the same! Issue: The AirPods Max are overpriced for what you get.Fix: The price remains the same in the U.S. There is a price drop in the U.K., however: from £549 to £499. And what about the areas where Apple has moved on since 2020, leaving the AirPods Max left behind? For example: Issue: The AirPods Max, despite being Apple’s flagship headphones, don’t support its own lossless audio format, launched in 2021.Fix: If the new models support lossless, Apple is keeping quiet about it. Issue: The latest AirPods Pro (and even the $129 AirPods 4) get a more advanced H2 chip, which improves battery life and ANC performance and is necessary for Apple’s adaptive transparency mode. But the AirPods Max are stuck on the older H1 without any of the new features.Fix: None. It still has the H1, farcically. Basically, nothing has been fixed. The AirPods Max are as outdated as ever, growing more so by the day. The AirPods Max look new, but they’re very much the same. The AirPods Max look new, but they’re very much the same.Apple The AirPods Max look new, but they’re very much the same.Apple Apple Minimum effort Perhaps I’m being unfair on the “new” AirPods Max. After all, Apple doesn’t label them with a 2nd-gen tag or separate the 2024 edition from the 2020 edition in the “Compare Models” section on its website. As far as Apple’s concerned, this is the same product, only with USB-C and some new colors. But that’s the problem, right there. Of all the products on Apple’s books, this is the one that most urgently required a full refresh. It needed to do what it did with the Apple Watch Series 2: acknowledge the mistakes and problems, and find a way to resolve them, instead of fobbing us off with this disappointment. And the worst part is that, now Apple has done an “update,” there’s little chance of an actual 2nd-gen model in the near or medium term. The thing is, this isn’t new behavior for Apple. It’s been phoning in “will this do?” non-updates for years. The 3rd-gen iPhone SE, for example, was a similar disappointment which, as our reviewer points out, updated the one part that didn’t need it, ignored all the problems, and didn’t touch the physical design. The iPhone SE got a similar treatment, with a bare-minimum update that didn’t fix any of its predecessor’s problems. The iPhone SE got a similar treatment, with a bare-minimum update that didn’t fix any of its predecessor’s problems.IDG The iPhone SE got a similar treatment, with a bare-minimum update that didn’t fix any of its predecessor’s problems.IDG IDG The Mac Pro, meanwhile, is supposed to sit at the top of its line, like the AirPods Max, but actually has one of the Mac lineup’s more outdated specs lists because Apple doesn’t update ultra-premium products often enough. The Mac Pro had been languishing on four-year-old hardware (sound familiar?), and when Apple finally gave it an update it didn’t change the design and installed chips that would quickly fall behind the company’s other machines. As my colleague points out, it feels symbolic that the lab shown in Apple’s Scary Fast video last year was running on Mac Studios, not Mac Pros. Ultimately this comes down to an age-old problem when dealing with Apple, which is that in many fields the company is so dominant that it isn’t really competing with other companies, but with its own legacy products. When Apple launches a new Mac, phone, or set of headphones, you just know that someone from marketing has been getting in the engineers’ ears: make sure you don’t advance things too much, because we’ll have to top this next time. Sure, you can release an incredible product and everyone will be happy at first. But you’re just storing up problems for yourself in the future. I mean, it’s not like customers are going to ignore the new AirPods Max and buy over-ear headphones from someone else, right? Right?10:08 amSamsung is now ripping off Apple design in a painfully awkward ad
Samsung is now mocking Apple over a perceived lack of new designs for the iPhone, and doing it with a nod to the famous "Think Different" ads — as well as doing it despite a lack of new designs itself.Notice the lowercase word "different", with a period, and in what appears to be the Garamond fontIf you want to argue that the iPhone 16 range is little different to last year's iPhone 15 releases, you have a point and you are far from alone. Equally, if you don't think design should be changed solely for the hell of it, you're on strong ground.It's when you take out an ad to mock Apple over this perceived issue and do so by bringing up an ad campaign that ended two decades ago. It's when your advertising centers on your claimed design superiority by showing a single feature that you first did five years ago. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums10:03 amHow to downgrade an iPhone from iOS 18 to iOS 17
Macworld Apple updates iOS every year without fail, bestowing upon our iPhones a range of new features and security improvements as well as the occasional redesign. In September 2024 iOS 18 made its debut. Most iPhone users will move to the new platform pretty much straight away, and the majority are sure to love the changes. But what if you want to go back to an older version of iOS? Is that even possible? In this article, we explore what options you have when wanting to downgrade iOS on your iPhone. Can I downgrade from one version of iOS to another? The answer to this depends on whether you want to download from a brand new version of iOS to an old version of iOS, a beta to a non-beta version, or just a point update within a few days of it being issued. In those scenarios, you can downgrade, but there is a time limit. If you are hoping to downgrade from iOS 17 to iOS 16, for example, that’s not something you can do anymore. And if you want to downgrade from iOS 16.6 to iOS 16.5, or iOS 16.6.1 to iOS 16.6, that won’t be possible either. The reason you can’t downgrade is that Apple is no longer ‘signing’ those versions of iOS, and these days Apple stops signing old versions of iOS within days of a new version being issued. But if you are quick enough you might be able to downgrade from a new version of iOS to the previous version, we’ll show you how. How to downgrade from a new iOS: iOS 18 to iOS 17.6.1 In this example, we will explain how we downgraded from iOS 18 to iOS 17.6.1 which right now is the last version of iOS 17 that Apple is still signing (it isn’t signing iOS 17.7). We did this downgrade within days of iOS 18 being issued, while Apple was still signing iOS 17.6.1. Theoretically, the same process should work for any update, as long as Apple is still signing the previous version. So before you even start this process check here to see if the older version is still being signed (if it’s been more than a few days since the new version came out it probably isn’t possible to downgrade anymore). An alternative way to get hold of the old version of iOS is to make a copy of it before the new one arrives. If you install the version of iOS using the Finder on your Mac (or iTunes on a PC), you can then find that version. In the Finder click on Go > Library > iTunes > iPhone Software Update (yes, it’s still in an iTunes finder on the Mac!) If you are lucky and the old version is still being signed, you still may prefer to stay on the new version because this process will wipe your iPhone. The only way to reinstall an older version of iOS is to wipe the current one from your device. This also means that if you restore from a backup made after the update you will be putting the newer version of iOS back on to the device. Go to IPSW.me and download the correct version of the iOS you want that matches your iPhone model. It needs to still be signed by Apple, which these days is a very narrow window indeed. The software should start downloading to your Downloads folder. (Note, it can take a long time to download an iOS from this site). On your Mac, open the Finder. Plug in your iPhone. You will need to turn off Find My on your device. Go to Settings and click on your ID information. Tap Find My > Find My iPhone and switch the slider to off. Enter your Apple ID password. Hold down the Option/Alt key and click on Restore iPhone. You should be able to select the version of iOS you wish to install on the iPhone from your downloads folder. Click on Open. A message will appear saying which version of iOS you will install – this should be the one you have selected. Click to confirm this and wait while your iPhone is restored. The phone will be wiped and the old version of iOS installed on the iPhone. When we did this the Finder wrongly identified the version, but it was the one we wanted. You then need to set up your iPhone as a new device, so beware of this if you don’t want to run the risk of losing data. This is what it looked like when we downgraded from iOS 16.6.1 to iOS 16.6. The process is the same – as long as the old version is still signed. This is what it looked like when we downgraded from iOS 16.6.1 to iOS 16.6. The process is the same – as long as the old version is still signed. Foundry This is what it looked like when we downgraded from iOS 16.6.1 to iOS 16.6. The process is the same – as long as the old version is still signed. Foundry Foundry How to downgrade from an iOS beta If you’re a part of the Apple Beta Software Program, it is also possible to revert from the beta version installed on your iPhone to the version of the previous iOS. But as above, you will wipe your iPhone or iPad in doing so. Another option, once the full version launches, is to leave the Beta program so that you no longer receive beta updates on your iPhone. You will then be able to install the full version of iOS. To stop receiving beta updates follow these steps: Open Settings. Tap General. Tap Software Update. Tap Beta Updates. Tap Off. If you want to receive beta updates again in the future just go back to this screen and select the ones you want. We cover the whole process in our how to remove an iOS beta from your iPhone guide. Why can’t I downgrade to an older version of iOS? As we said above, there is a very small window in which you can downgrade. When software is made available by Apple the company includes a signature that confirms its authenticity. This is for security reasons, so that you won’t accidentally install bogus software that claims to be iOS and then find yourself in a world of pain as all your data is stolen. Whereas in the past Apple would leave the signature valid on previous versions of iOS for a short time, in recent years the signature has been removed within days of, and sometimes almost simultaneously with, the release of the newer version. This isn’t a new scenario. At an Apple shareholder meeting back in 2016, the company’s senior vice president of software engineering, Craig Federighi, was reported as saying that Apple did “not provide a way to downgrade largely because each iOS update improves the security of your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. To downgrade iOS means that your device would be less secure, and easier for hackers to get into.” If the version of iOS you wish to reinstall doesn’t have this signature then you will not be able to install it on your iPhone or iPad. The best way to get back to a previous version of iOS If you simply must have a certain version of iOS, perhaps because an old app is stuck on that version and hasn’t been updated since, then there is a somewhat drastic solution. Buy an old iPhone. It sounds silly, but it’s probably the easiest way to ensure that you have the iOS version you need. We’d recommend scouring eBay or some of the refurbished outlets like Decluttr or Amazon Renewed (or Back Market, MusicMagpie, or Amazon Renewed in the U.K.) to see if someone is selling an older model still running the iOS you want. Needless to say, you should specifically ask the buyer to confirm this–don’t just assume that the iPhone will still be running the version of iOS that was current when it launched. But bear in mind, finally, that there’s a reason why Apple wants people using its latest software. Not only does this mean you get the newest features and design, but it should also be the safest one available as it has the latest updates. To see what has us most excited about the next iteration Apple has in store, take a quick look at How iOS 17 and iOS 18 compare and All the little details and hidden features in iOS 18 you won’t want to miss.09:44 amMake your iPhone 16 Pro Max last longer with this TORRAS Ostand Spin case
Macworld iPhone 16 Pro Max is the largest-screen iPhone to date, with a huge 6.9in display. It’s the ideal device for streaming video, playing games and for composing arty shots with its 48Mp Fusion camera. A screen and camera this good demand protection that can keep up in any scenario, and for this the Ostand 360 Spin Fusion case from TORRAS stands out. Indeed, it stands out, stands up, stands down, and from side to side, with a signature 360-degree spinning ring feature that lets you prop up or magnetically secure the Pro Max in any position you like. TORRAS TORRAS TORRAS With iPhone 16 Pro Max available in Black, White, Natural and Desert Titanium, TORRAS offers its 360 Spin Fusion in three complementing shades: Dune, Onyx and Ivory. The design language speaks to sparks of time and energy, with three subtle lines on the rear denoting hours, minutes and seconds, and adding a touch of style. The Ostand 360 Spin Fusion is a gently curved, skin-friendly case with textured edges that enhance grip and comfort, and ensure smooth finger movement and full access to the camera control, without adding bulk or detracting from the original iPhone 16 Pro Max design. It’s available from Amazon now for $45.99. BUY TORRAS OSTAND 360 SPIN FUSION Take iPhone 16 Pro Max anywhere The ring feature is fully compatible with MagSafe for connecting accessories such as Qi power banks and chargers, but its magnet is 40% stronger than competing devices, offering twice the peace of mind that attached MagSafe gadgets will stay securely in place. The ring gets even more interesting when you flip it out, though. It makes for a great finger grip for stabilizing iPhone 16 Pro Max for selfies, for when you are carrying multiple objects at once, or for simply holding the iPhone more securely for extended periods. TORRAS TORRAS TORRAS Moreover, it’s an ingenious kickstand that operates in any position. The TORRAS Ostand 360 Spin Fusion lets you hook your iPhone over a monitor or attach it to its frame for use as a second screen, prop up the iPhone at up to 90 degrees or magnetically attach it to any metallic object for photographic purposes, for FaceTime calls or TikTok viewing, or stand it in landscape mode for streaming YouTube and other online video. iPhone 16 Pro Max becomes accessible and easy to use in any scenario, from the kitchen to the bedroom, to the gym, the car and even the great outdoors – in direct sunlight, simply switch the kickstand angle to avoid glare. And when not in use, it’ll slide smoothly into a pocket or bag. Wherever you position iPhone 16 Pro Max, with the TORRAS Ostand 360 Spin Fusion case you know it will stay there. What’s more, it will stay safe. TORRAS TORRAS TORRAS Ultimate protection for iPhone 16 Pro Max The Ostand 360 Spin Fusion offers TORRAS’ top protection for iPhone 16 Pro Max. This is a super drop-resistant phone case with four-corner airbags and a 0.33mm raised lens protector that can also shield the camera. It’s been thoroughly tested by the TORRAS tech team for your piece of mind, with the case undergoing 26 drop tests and its spinning ring feature 10,000 bending tests. Plus, you get an 180-day extended warranty and 30-day return policy. The Ostand 360 Spin Fusion is also available with an iPhone 16 Pro Max screen protector. This GlassGo X protector is easy to install, and with milshock technology it’s shatterproof, offering edge-to-edge protection, and resistance to dust and fingerprints. Buy TORRAS Ostand 360 Spin Fusion iPhone 16 Pro Max case for $45.99 View Offer09:15 amLogoist 5 out the door, now available for the Mac, iPhone, and iPad
Sometimes Adobe needs a good competitor to challenge it in its market. This comes in the form of Logoist 5, which was created by Synium Software Company out of Germany and is now available for the macOS, iOS, and iPadOS operating systems. The art suite, which is available for any Apple Silicon Mac with an […] Source09:00 amRumor: Apple suspends contract with MacBook Air component supplier Kerson after high ball bearing defect rate noted | PowerPageRumor: Apple suspends contract with MacBook Air component supplier Kerson after high ball bearing defect rate noted
Apple is apparently irked at MacBook bearing supplier Kerson, has suspended its production for inspection purposes due to “quality issues,” and shifted orders to other suppliers through the end of the year. Per Taiwanese industry publication, the suspension came after Apple discovered a high defect rate with the supplier’s bearings for the month of August. […] Source09:00 amWhat to do when you can’t open an app you just installed in macOS Sequoia
Macworld In macOS Sequoia, Apple has added another stumbling block to launching software that has not gone through Apple’s baseline vetting process for apps. Generally, this can be a good thing, preventing naive users from accidentally installing malware or privacy-invading software. However, for users who rely on software created by people who don’t work within the lines painted by Apple and its App Store, here’s what you need to know. The Gatekeeper feature in macOS is something you never see called by that name. It’s designed to ensure that only certain apps can run on your Mac, even though macOS can execute any correctly constructed software for the platform. The only visible control is in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Security, where you can choose one of two options from the “Allow applications from” menu: App Store, or App Store & Known Developers. There’s a third category that Apple eliminated from this list in macOS years ago. (The menu used to appear as radio buttons in a different System Preferences pane.) Those are apps where the programmer chose not to pay the annual fee for an Apple Developer account, or they have such an account but didn’t run the app through a vetting system Apple uses that’s a big step below the App Store’s review process. When a developer submits an app to an App Store, Apple uses a combination of automatic and human review to ensure that the app doesn’t contain malware or software code from third parties that it doesn’t allow and that it more or less does what it says it does without being misleading. That process is full of human error and inconsistencies, but it has mostly led to safe apps in the App Store, even if some are scammy in their pricing intent or misleading about how useful they are. Mac developers can choose, instead, to have Apple notarize and sign an app. Notarization is the company’s process for checking for malware and for software libraries (bundles of code shared among apps) that could be swapped out for other components. If the app passes those automated tests, Apple uses a cryptographic process to sign it, which ensures the app can’t launch if it’s been modified since passing those tests. (Notarization was an optional step at one point, made mandatory in 2020; all apps signed since then have also been notarized.) Some developers prefer not to engage in that step. They don’t want to pay the annual developer fee, use components that Apple doesn’t notarize for macOS, or don’t want Apple to have a say-so on whether their software can run. Those unsigned apps can still run on your Mac. I’ve found fewer over the years, but they still exist and generally come from specialized academic and research fields. Sequoia has no Finder bypass for unsigned apps—click Done. Sequoia has no Finder bypass for unsigned apps—click Done.Foundry Sequoia has no Finder bypass for unsigned apps—click Done.Foundry Foundry In System Settings, you can choose to open an unsigned app despite Apple’s warning. In System Settings, you can choose to open an unsigned app despite Apple’s warning.Foundry In System Settings, you can choose to open an unsigned app despite Apple’s warning.Foundry Foundry Here’s what to do to launch such an app in Sequoia: Double-click the app. You’re warned that the app may contain malware or compromise your privacy. The only options are Done and Move To Trash. Click Done. Open System Settings > Privacy & Security. At the bottom of the settings list, you should see a message like “‘App name’ was blocked to protect your Mac.” If you want to open it, click Open Anyway. I urge you to continue to exercise a high level of vigilance around unsigned apps as you entirely rely on the developer to protect your security and privacy. However, few apps like that have enough reach that any malware practitioner would have an interest in exploiting a weakness. Ask Mac 911 We’ve compiled a list of the questions we get asked most frequently, along with answers and links to columns: read our super FAQ to see if your question is covered. If not, we’re always looking for new problems to solve! Email yours to mac911@macworld.com, including screen captures as appropriate and whether you want your full name used. Not every question will be answered; we don’t reply to emails, and we cannot provide direct troubleshooting advice.08:38 amiOS 18 superguide: Everything you need to know about the iPhone update
Macworld Even if you’re not planning to buy one of the new iPhones, your existing iPhone (XR and later) can now get a bunch of new features following the release of iOS 18. Among the new features in iOS 18 are a redesigned Photos app, new ways to customize your Home screen and wallpaper, new Messages reactions, privacy-related features and dozens of other smaller changes. There will also be some AI features, dubbed Apple Intelligence coming to some iPhones (find out if they’ll be on your iPhone below). This free software update brings interface tweaks, bug fixes, and new features. It is like getting a new iPhone without paying a penny. In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about iOS 18, including which iPhones will be able to run iOS 18, the new features – and the new features still to come because they weren’t ready in time for the launch of iOS 18. We also have information about the beta program including the latest version of the public and developer betas. Update: September 20 – reports of a Messages crashing bug connected to use of Apple Watch. iOS 18: Release date Monday, September 16 iOS 18 arrived on Monday, September 16. macOS Sequoia, watchOS and iPadOS 18 were also launched around the same time. iOS 18: Latest version The latest version is iOS 18, but expect iOS 18.0.1 to arrive soon as Apple addresses any problems with the initial release. For example, there appears to be an issue with iPadOS 18 causing the iPad Pro M4 to stop working. See: iPadOS 18 update pulled after bricking M4 iPad Pro. Apple is also working on a beta of iOS 18.1, which includes Apple Intelligence features. Apple Intelligence is not available in the first version. The first set of features will come in iOS 18 with more following in subsequent updates. See our detailed roadmap of Apple Intelligence features and their likely release dates. iOS 18: Problems and bugs Messages bug: A Messages bug that can cause crashes and may even result in the loss of valuable data has been reported. It seems to be connected to an Apple Watch feature that lets users share their watch face over Messages (or Mail). Obviously, those are quite a niche set of circumstances and the best way to avoid it appears to be to not reply to watch faces in a thread. We have more information here: Link-sharing bug in iOS 18 Messages can cause iPhone crashes, data loss. iOS 18: Should I install iOS 18 on my iPhone? As long as your iPhone can run it, we recommend updating to iOS 18. The new features–all of which we discuss below–look enticing enough, and, so far, the only problem (see above) will not affect many people. We address how How iOS 17 and iOS 18 compare separately. Also take a look at: All the little details and hidden features in iOS 18 you won’t want to miss. However, we do recommend you wait a week or more so that any issues with the early release can be addressed: despite the beta program, there are often issues once the software update gets installed on mass-market iPhones. It’s also wise not to be one of the first downloaders because the download will likely take a lot longer if you try soon after it becomes available. iOS 18: How to install Installing iOS 18 and any subsequent updates is a breeze. Just open the Settings app on your iPhone and go to General > Software Update; iOS will check for any available updates and guide you through the process of installing them. You simply have to follow the instructions, which we explain in our iOS updating guide. And it’s easier still if you’ve turned on Automatic Updates, which you can do from the same screen. A little work preparing your iPhone before installing the update can help avoid problems. We advise you follow these steps: Back up your iPhone: Back up before installing the new version and you will always be able to recover your iPhone with the older version of iOS running on it should things go wrong. Read: How to downgrade an iPhone. Make space on your iPhone: If your iPhone doesn’t have a lot of available space internally we recommend having a bit of a tidy-up so you can reclaim some iPhone storage. Simple ways to do this could include deleting apps you don’t use, deleting old Notes, Messages, and duplicated photos. Update your iPhone to the latest version: Don’t skip an update and go straight to iOS 18. If you haven’t installed iOS 17.6.1 yet do so now. iOS 18 compatibility: Which iPhones get iOS 18? The following iPhones get support for iOS 18, the same lineup of supported devices as iOS 17. iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, Pro, Pro Max iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, Pro, Pro Max iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, Pro, Pro Max iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, Pro, Pro Max iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, Pro, Pro Max iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, Pro Max iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max iPhone XR iPhone SE (2nd gen or later) Read: iOS 18 compatibility: Which iPhones support iOS 18 and iOS compatibility checker Some of the new features will not be supported on the older phones, because they lack the hardware necessary (a powerful enough Neural Engine or GPU to run AI stuff, or enough RAM). This is typical of new iOS releases. In 2022, for example, the iPhone 8 and iPhone X missed out on a bunch of cool stuff due to their older processor. It is no surprise, therefore, that the hardware requirements are steep for the AI-related features aka ‘Apple Intelligence’—iPhone 15 Pro or later. Like iOS 17, iOS 18 does not support iPhone 8 or the iPhone X which came out in 2017, but since those phones are able to run iOS 16, they will continue to get support through security updates for at least another year. With the release of iOS 18 though, Apple will stop supporting iOS 15, which will mean that iPhone 7, 7 Plus, iPhone 6S, 6S Plus, and iPhone SE (1st generation) will no longer get support. Generally, Apple has provided software updates for the past two versions of iOS. See: How long does Apple support iPhones. iOS 18 beta: Latest version Apple’s beta testing program for developers and public testers has been running since June/July and will continue beyond the launch of iOS 18 to the general public. There is also a separate iOS 18 Sequoia 15.1 beta that includes Apple Intelligence features. Below you can find information about the latest beta versions and how to install them. If you want to run the developer beta, you need to be a registered Apple software developer, which has both free and paid ($99/£79) versions. We explain How to join Apple’s beta program separately. Since June 2023 Apple has opened the beta testing program to all registered developers–so now everyone can get the earliest possible access to the iOS beta without paying Apple. Developer betas can be risky though, so as an alternative, anyone can sign up for the Public Beta, which should be more stable than the developer beta. Beware though: whether a public beta or a developer beta, any beta software is not as stable as the final version and the iOS and your apps may not work properly. Read Should you install the iOS 18 beta? for advice. Rather than installing the developer beta we recommend that you should install the public beta to avoid too many complications. Once registered, when you go to Settings > General > Software Update on your Mac, you’ll see a new tab for Beta Updates, which will list the version of the beta you’re running. For example, if you want to install the developer beta select iOS 18 Developer Beta, alternatively, if it’s the public beta you want, select iOS 18 Public Beta. If you need help installing the developer or public betas read our How to get the iOS beta article. If you then want to uninstall it, we have a guide for that: How to remove the iOS beta. Latest beta iOS 18.1 beta 4 – developer beta released September 17 iOS 18.0 RC – public beta Apple began the beta program soon after it revealed the details of iOS 18 at WWDC. The developer beta is available for anyone who wants to run the beta, but it should be noted betas–especially developer betas–are likely to be buggy, so we don’t recommend installing it on a primary device. Apple started parallel development of iOS 18.1 on July 29 with the release of the iOS 18.1 beta to developers with supported hardware (iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max). This version includes Apple Intelligence features which weren’t available in the initial launch of iOS 18. See: Everything Apple Intelligence can (and can’t) do in iOS 18.1. If you’d like to join the beta read how to join Apple’s beta program and try out new software. If you want to remove the beta from your device read this: How to remove an iOS beta from your iPhone. iOS 18 features: The new features in iOS 18 There were many new features in iOS 17 including a new app called Journal, Live Voicemail, and a new way to use Stickers, among dozens of other smaller changes. Rumors suggested that iOS 18 would be “one of the biggest iOS updates — if not the biggest — in the company’s history.” As expected, in iOS 28 Apple will include some major new AI features, dubbed Apple Intelligence, although these features will only be available on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max and newer iPhones. Not all the new features will be available at launch. The first Apple Intelligence AI features will be introduced in iOS 18.1. Other features, such as the new categories in Mail, will come “later this year” in a subsequent software update. Read: These features will be missing when iOS 18 launches this fall. Customization There will be a more customizable Home Screen, Lock Screen, and Control Center in iOS 18. Several reports had claimed that Apple would allow greater personalization of the Home screen, including allowing users to place icons anywhere on the grid, allowing spaces between them. Prior to iOS 18 icons can be reordered or put into folders, but always fill the screen from left to right and top to bottom. In iOS 18 users will be able to arrange apps and widgets anywhere on the Home Screen, including right above the dock or framing a wallpaper. It will even be possible to change the lock screen icons or remove them. In addition, App icons and widgets can have a dark or tinted effect to blend in. Read: iOS 18: How to change the color of the app icons on your home screen and How to put app icons, widgets, and folders anywhere you want as well as iOS 18: How to make your app icons large and label-free. This “put icons wherever you want” feature is something we’ve wanted from Apple for many years, and has been a staple of many Android phones seemingly forever. The Control Centre is getting a redesign to give easier access to a user’s most-utilized controls. Users will also be able to add controls from supported third-party apps into Control Center. Is it enough? Read: Apple is finally letting you have it your way–kinda and You can finally customize your iPhone like Android–here’s everything you can do. Apple Apple Apple Photos New features in Photos will help users find their photos and keep big libraries organized. It’s the biggest redesign of Photos ever and is intended to help users find photos fast. It will be simplified but still familiar, according to Apple and will include a new Unified View, new Collections, and customization features. Users will be able to filter out clutter to narrow down to specific types of content. It will be possible to browse by topics, time, people, memories, trips, Recent Days and People and Pets. A new carousel view will present highlights that update each day – featuring favorite people, pets, and places. Apple Apple Apple Messages Messages will gain new ways to express yourself. Expect improvements to text formatting and fun new text effects. Tapbacks are getting redesigned and will let you tap back with any emoji or sticker. You’ll also be able to amplify and animate letters, word, phrases, and emoji, and add formatting like bold, underline, italics, and strikethrough. You will also be able to schedule a message to send later. Messages will also support RCS for more reliable group messaging with those who do not have an Apple device. Read about how your conversations with Android users will look in iOS 18 and RCS on iPhone with iOS 18: Every question answered. Apple is also making it possible to send Messages via Satellite so you can text when off the grid from Messages app. iMessages sent over satellite are encrypted. Apple Apple Apple Mail Mail will help you manage incoming email better with new on-device categorization. As email arrives it will be sorted into Primary (personal and time-sensitive), Transactions (confirmations and receipts), Updates (news and social notifications), and Promotions (marketing and coupons). A new Digest will pull together all relevant emails from a business, so for example, it could bring all flight information together. The Mail Categorization features will be available later this year. Safari A new Highlights feature is designed to make it easier to discover information on the web. A redesigned Reader experience will use machine learning to surface key information on a webpage so that users can review a summary to get the gist of an article. A table of contents will be included for longer articles Apple says users will also be able to quickly see the location of a restaurant, hotel, or landmark; or listen to an artist’s track right from an article about the song or album. You will also be able to snap away annoying ads. Apple Apple Apple Wallet and Apple Pay There will be new ways to pay with Apple Pay. Users can send and receive Apple Cash by holding two iPhones together: Tap to Cash will let you share cash without exchanging email or number. Tickets in Apple Wallet including key event information like an event guide with info about the venue, and recommended Apple Music playlists Apple Apple Apple iPhone mirroring on the Mac iPhone Mirroring will grant users access to their iPhone via their Mac. It will be possible to see notifications from the iPhone on the Mac, and drag and drop files between the devices. Read: How iPhone Mirroring lets you access your iPhone on your Mac in macOS Sequoia. Other app updates: Journal – New features to help you keep track of goals, Insights view, calendar, writing streak, and actually search Maps – New topographic maps with trails (US national parks only) Game Mode – Will minimize background activity for the best frame rates Notes app – formulas and equations entered while typing will be solved Calendar – incorporates tasks from Reminders and a new monthly view Health app – Medical ID redesigned Emergency SOS Live Video Home app – guest access Accessibility – Eye Tracking iCloud – Apple is adding a “Keep Downloaded” option that prevents the file from being moved to iCloud and keeps the file on the device. Read about the new Keep Downloaded option. Apple didn’t discuss everything at WWDC. There were a number of features that didn’t make the WWDC keynote. Also see: Unannounced iOS 18 tweak lets you see the time even when your iPhone is dead. Privacy features iOS 18 will improve privacy. You will be able to control who can see your apps, which contacts you share with that app, and which accessories apps can connect to. You can also control whether others can view your apps on your iPhone by locking an app so it won’t open without Face ID or a passcode. A new locked hidden apps folder is also coming with iOS 18. Developers will have a way to seamlessly connect third-party accessories with iPhones without letting an app see all the other devices on a user’s network. Apple Apple Apple Apple Intelligence Apple’s new artificial intelligence system is coming to iPhone, Mac, and iPad with iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and iPadOS 18. Apple Intelligence will only be supported by iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max though. (Here’s why you’ll need to upgrade your iPhone to get Apple Intelligence, also read: Here’s why newer iPhones and Vision Pro can’t run Apple Intelligence). The hardware requirements are steep—iPhone 15 Pro or later. iPads will need at least an M1 chip or later as will Macs. Apple Intelligence features will mostly be processed on the device, which is different from other platforms where AI processing is done in the cloud. But Apple Intelligence will be able to determine if cloud processing is needed and will use it when appropriate. Apple Intelligence features include the following: Writing – Apple Intelligence will help users enhance their writing and communications. Writing Tools are built in systemwide that will offer to rewrite, proofread, and summarize text in writing focused apps such as Mail, Notes, Pages, and third-party apps. Images – New image capabilities will also come to M-series Macs. In Image Playground users will be able to create images in three styles: Animation, Illustration, or Sketch. Photos – A new Memories in Photos feature will create a video from photos and videos based on a description provided by the user. Apple Intelligence will pick out the photos and videos, develop a storyline based on the photos, and arrange them into a movie. In addition, a new Clean Up tool will identify and remove unwanted objects from the background of a photo. Read: Apple Intelligence FAQ: What it is, what it does, and when you’ll get it and Apple Intelligence is a gradual rollout—here’s what you’ll get, and when. Siri Siri is also getting some AI updates and ChatGPT is to be integrated into Siri. Because some queries will be handled off-device Apple is introducing Private Cloud Compute so that when data is sent to server-based models for processing it is not stored or made accessible to Apple. One of the simplest changes to Siri is that it will be easier to type to Siri rather than having to speak to the on-device assistant. Apple may have finally twigged that people don’t always want to talk to their phones. The new Siri is said to be more “conversational” and natural, with features that “help users in their day-to-day lives.” A new smart responses framework will help Siri take into account your own personal details in its replies: like people, companies, calendar events, locations, dates, and more. Later this year, Siri is said to get cross-device media control. So you can talk to Siri on one of your devices to control media playback on another. In an update scheduled for early 2025, Siri is said to gain the ability to control nearly any app, with hundreds of possible commands. This feature will start off with single commands for Apple’s own apps and grow to include third-party apps and commands with multiple steps. In addition, Siri will be able to react to and take actions based on what is on your screen. This is said to go into beta for developers in January, with a rollout to users in iOS 18.4 in the spring. New accessibility features Apple is planning several new accessibility features for iOS 18, including Adaptive Voice Shortcuts, which will let users turn on or off specific accessibility features using a custom phrase, and Live Speech, which lets users type what they want to say and have it read out loud on phone calls or video meetings, will get the ability to add saved phrases to categories. Features coming after the iOS 18 release Some iOS 18 features won’t be a part of the initial release. Rather, they will be released later in 2024 or in 2025 as part of an iOS 18 point release (iOS 18.2 or iOS 18.4, for example). Here are some of the more significant features we expect to come later in an iOS 18 update: Mail app features – Auto-categorizing of mail, mail digests, and summaries in your inbox are all features expected later in 2024. Home support for robot vacuums – The Home app won’t be able to start or stop your Roomba until later in 2024. Drag and Drop between iPhone and Mac – You’ll be able to see and control your iPhone on your Mac when iOS 18 and macOS 15 are released, but drag-and-drop support between your Mac and iPhone will come in an update. ChatGPT integration – The ability to call upon ChatGPT when using Apple’s AI tools will likely come later in 2024. Advanced Siri features – Siri features like its ability to see and react to what is on your display, semantic indexing (where Siri knows and uses information from across Messages, Mail, Contacts, and more), and advanced control over apps is all coming in 2025. Vehicle Motion Cues in iOS 18 will help reduce motion sickness. Third-party NFC transactions – Apple will allow third-party NFC transactions beginning with iOS 18.1–by request. In addition, all of the Apple Intelligence features will initially support only American English, and may be limited to only some regions. Additional languages and regions are likely to be available through 2025 and beyond. Next version of iOS We know that the next version of iOS after Apple finishes development of iOS 18 will be iOS 19. But what next in terms of software? Expect even more Apple Intelligence features to come in the late 2025 update to iOS and expect that iOS, iPadOS and macOS will be closer than ever. Over the past several years, the release of the new version of iOS has been fairly consistent, usually falling on the Monday following Apple’s iPhone launch event: iOS 18: Monday, September 16, 2024 iOS 17: Monday, September 18, 2023 iOS 16: Monday, September 12, 2022 iOS 15: Monday, September 20, 2021 iOS 14: Wednesday, September 16, 2020 iOS 13: Thursday, September 19, 2019 iOS 12: Monday, September 17, 201808:37 amThe iPhone 16 lineup, AirPods 4, and Apple Watch Series 10 arrive around the world
On Friday, September 20th the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro lineups, Apple Watch Series 10, the new black titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.07:34 amiPhone 16 & iPhone 16 Pro are now available in store
As the first pre-orders arrive, the iPhone 16 can now be bought in Apple Stores, as well as ordered online for immediate shipping.Apple's iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 PlusFirst unveiled at the "It's Glowtime" event, preorders for the iPhone 16 began on September 13, with a shipping date of September 20. Now that shipping date has arrived, the preorder stage is over and any iPhone 16 can be ordered online for immediate despatch, or in-store pickup.It's also now on sale in Apple's retail stores, which means users can examine the new phone in person. It also means that if Apple sold out of a particular color and storage combination during the preorder stage, it's likely to be available in stores. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums06:54 amApple published a new Press Release
Apple just published a new Press Release:The iPhone 16 lineup, AirPods 4, Apple Watch Series 10 arrive around the world05:05 amiPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro and AirPods 4 are now on sale
iPhone 16 series, AirPods 4 and Apple Watch Series 10 preorders are arriving for customers worldwide, with the devices going on sale today. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)03:05 amClicks Keyboard review: trading speed for well-made nostalgia
The Clicks Keyboard for iPhone will either be an amazing nostalgia trip that forces you to slow down and think, or it will be a finger trap of typing torment. Either way, it's a well-executed product.Clicks Keyboard reviewI want to get this out of the way at the top — Clicks is awesome. However, it is more nostalgic than productive, and the expense can't be ignored.Yes, Clicks costs more than many full-sized mechanical keyboards I've reviewed. But don't let that get in the way of appreciating just how novel this product is. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:56 amFirst iPhone 16 pre-orders arrive as lines form at Apple Stores around the world
As the clock turns to September 20 around the world, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro launch is in full swing. The first pre-orders have started arriving to lucky buyers, while lines are starting to form at Apple Stores. As we highlighted earlier, Apple’s flagship Fifth Avenue retail store is also glowing in Apple Intelligence colors to celebrate the iPhone 16 launch. more…12:41 amApple Fifth Avenue store gets Apple Intelligence glow ahead of iPhone 16 launch
Apple continues its tradition of decking out the Fifth Avenue store ahead of product launches, this time with glowing rainbow colors signifying Apple Intelligence on iPhone 16.Apple Intelligence glow at Apple Fifth AvenueThe iPhone 16 lineup launches around the world on Friday, and Apple is ready with decor representing a feature that won't launch publicly for a few weeks. Despite that, Apple has leaned heavily into promoting the AI features for the lineup.The glowing Fifth Avenue store was shared by X account @RetailArchive and first discovered by 9to5Mac. The glowing cube decor is reminiscent of the Apple Vision Pro launch when it built a giant model of the headset. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:10 amApple, Google Wallets Now Support California Driver's Licenses
Residents of California can now store their driver's license or state ID in Apple or Google Wallet, according to an announcement today. Apple also shared the news. TechCrunch reports: Californians with an ID in the Apple Wallet or Google Wallet app can use their mobile devices to present their ID in person at select TSA security checkpoints and businesses. They can also use the app to verify their age or identity in select apps. Other states that already support digital driver's licenses and state IDs include Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, and Ohio. Read more of this story at Slashdot.Thursday September 1911:22 pmApple released a new iOS Firmware
Apple just released iOS 17.7 (Build 21H16) for:iPad16,3 (iPad16,3) — DownloadiPad16,4 (iPad16,4) — DownloadiPad16,5 (iPad16,5) — DownloadiPad16,6 (iPad16,6) — Download