Category: Apple

iOS 9.2 Adds Mail Drop and Siri Support for Arabic

Apple released iOS 9.2 update, which comes with a few handy improvements and bug fixes especially for Apple Music, News and Mail.

Apple Music now lets you create new playlists when adding a song to a playlist. Earlier, you could only add to playlists that were already there before rather than letting you create new ones as and when you discover songs. The ‘Classical’ music section has been updated so you can browse works, composers and performers within the Apple Music catalog.

Apple News is another app that gets a major update. You now have a new section called Top Stories a feature that enables users to “stay current with the most important news of the day, selected by the Apple News editorial team.” However, the app is yet to make itself available in India.

The third major update goes to the Mail. Apple has finally increased the attachment size to 5GB for Mail Drop. In the past, the Mail Drop feature was limited to the Mail app for Mac.

There are also a host of minor add-ons like Arabic language support for Siri, 3D Touch functionality for iBooks and USB camera cable support for iPhone. The update is live right now so go ahead and update your Apple device(s).

December 9, 2015
Apple Launches Its Own Smart Battery Case For iPhone 6 and iPhone 6s

iPhone users, your battery troubles might just be over because Apple just unveiled its own Smart Battery Case for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6s. This case will be available on the Apple online store and costs $99 which is approximately Rs.6,619. Apple says that this case can extend the iPhone’s battery life up to 18 hours of internet usage on LTE networks, up to 20 hours of video playback, and as much as 25 hours of increased talk time.

The Smart Battery Case is just like a regular case and thereby eliminating the inconvenience caused by a third party solution. It will be available in two colours – Charcoal and White with microfiber lining on the inside and silicone exterior. Looks and sounds very Apple Inc.

This Case will be charged via a standard Lightning port and will therefore be compatible with official docks so that users won’t have to carry around extra cables. You will also be able to charge your iPhone and the Battery Case simultaneously. Apple also further says, that when the Smart Case is in use, an “intelligent battery status” will be displayed on the iPhone’s lock screen and in its notification center. Trust Apple to create something as nuanced for its customers and users. However, as of now, there is no word on whether this device or its kind will be available for the other iPhones.

December 8, 2015
Is Apple Maps a Better Choice Than Google Maps?

The company introduced Apple Maps in 2012 and ushered in a series of glitches which involved the Madison Square Garden, New York being labelled as a ‘park space’ because of the word ‘garden’ in its name. However Apple acted promptly, fixed these goof-ups and now three years later Apple Maps has overtaken Google Maps as the most used navigation app on iPhones.

Even though Apple Maps lacks many features which Google Maps provides, users end up using the former more because it is already installed on their devices. Even if the phone has third party apps, Siri and Mail automatically take the user to Apple Maps. This, along with Apple’s efforts to improve the over-all experience of the app, has helped them get more users to choose Apple Maps over other options.

Google Maps, on the other hand, has not lagged behind either in improving itself. Starting last month, it now allows users to store maps and data on their phones to refer to it even without internet access. It also includes search tools for landmarks and business listings, transit maps that cover more region than Apple and options to exclude highways and toll roads.

As more and more iPhone users switch to Apple Maps, do you think Google Maps could be a better choice?

December 8, 2015
Add Capacitive Touch Buttons to an iPhone 6s and 6s Plus

There’s a new tempered glass for the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus from Quad Glass and unlike others this one is a four dimensional tempered glass. But, that is not even the special feature of this touchscreen guard; it is adds capacitive touch buttons at the bottom of your iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. Before going into details, take a look at our hands on video –

The company explains the introduction of such a feature because of the hassle caused by the huge screen size of the ever growing iPhone. Therefore, instead of continuously having to move your fingers right to the top of the screen, you can just reach the Menu and Back Button by touching the two extra capacitive touch button at the bottom. An added incentive to use this, is that, the button can’t even be felt.

Source

December 7, 2015
Apple iPhone 7c Might See a September Launch

Post the launch of the iPhone 5c, more popularly referred to as the ‘cheaper’ iPhone, most people wanted to see another upgraded ‘c’ version of the iPhone. We waited for an iPhone 6c which didn’t happen, and now rumours have resurfaced about an iPhone 7c.

The information suggests that the iPhone 7c will have a 4 inch display and can be expected to be unveiled in September 2016. Further reports also suggest the price of this device; it will be tagged at around $400-$500.

These rumours are all well placed as we await the arrival of the iPhone 7. Needless to say, Apple hasn’t confirmed any of the above rumours.

December 7, 2015
Is Samsung Finally Calling A Truce By Paying Apple $548 Million?

It has been almost five years since Apple sued Samsung for infringing smartphone patents. Finally, Samsung has decided to pay up an amount of $548 million before the 14th of December 2015. This decisions was reached up on, after a joint court statement from both companies that agreed on it. However, the statement notes that Samsung “continues to reserve all rights to obtain reimbursement from Apple,” if the invoice is not received before the weekend; while Apple has disputed these rights in the same document.

According to reports, Samsung said that it is only paying the money because an appeals court refused to block a judgement ordering it to pay. They intend to continue pursuing reimbursement if the U.S Patent and Trademark Office invalidates the patents and if the U.S Supreme Court takes up the request for review. Both companies are said to have dropped all the non-US cases while leaving only two main disputes that still have a way to go in courts.

“I don’t think it’s over, but hopefully we’re getting close,” said Robert Stoll, a patent lawyer with Drinker Biddle in Washington

This particular sum of money ($548 million) is allegedly part of a case that dealt with Apple’s “pinch to touch” technology; that the company claims has been copied by Samsung. The patent on this has been invalidated by the PTO, but Apple is still challenging that decision.

Honestly, though we’re all sick of this fight. Both mega tech companies fighting about one copying the other. It is high time they learn to co-exist with one another regardless of who is copying whom. At the end of the day, we all know who is getting the real credit. So, if Samsung is copying Apple, the latter should only feel flattered.

December 5, 2015
Top 5 Best Looking Phones of 2015

Technology never ceases to surprise us and 2015 just proved this right. The year saw some brilliant smartphones being introduced to the market. Devices with high end specs, snazzy designs and all kinds of technological breakthroughs previously unencountered entered the tech circuit. Some handsets, however, were prettier than others, and we cannot help but talk about them in this top 5 of the most stylish smartphones this year.

1. Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge and S6 Edge+

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Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+ is the company’s first big S series phone, as an add-on to the Galaxy S line of devices. The Galaxy S6 edge+ was designed to one up the iPhone 6 Plus in terms of specifications and hardware. But it did not simply stop there -the device is not only high on specs but the Galaxy S6 Edge and Edge+ with their curved screen and glass back are both a beauty to behold.

2. iPhone 6s and 6s Plus (Rose Gold Variant):

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With iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, Apple did not make major design changes. In fact the only design change was that the new iPhones were heavier and thicker than their predecessors. Looks like the entire Bendgate-controversy did make Apple sit up and listen. The one design change that Apple did introduce, however, was a new colour variant -the rose gold.

Though the Apple device is not the only device to offer a rose gold variant, another example being that of Huawei’s Mate S, it’s definitely one of the most popular. Before the Apple haters get started -it is not us but the market which affirms this -the rose gold variant was the most pre-ordered version of the new iPhones.

3. Moto X Style and Moto X Pure:

The versions of these two smartphones that launched in India did not fare too well on the looks front. But the Moto Maker available outside India allows you to customise you device in great detail. From the back to the front, to the colour and texture and feel -pretty much all of it can be altered and modified depending on the taste of the user. Moto Maker has not arrived in India yet, but if sources are to be believed, it should be here soon. Looks like the day when you get to lay your hands on a customised Moto X Pure or Style in India is not far.

4. OnePlus X

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OnePlus X was the company’s second device launched this year, closely preceded by OnePlus 2. OnePlus X was a bit of a downer in terms of performance and user interface, but that did not keep it from becoming one of the best phones in the price bracket. It’s also a very pretty looking phone with its slim and light body, very reminiscent of iPhone 4s. Despite its glitches with SD card and camera software, OnePlus X manages to do well solely based on looks.

5. HTC One A9

This device received a lot of hate and became a topic of great discussion owing to its iPhone-‘inspired’ design. Having said that, One A9 is indeed a very impressive looking smartphone for the metal unibody frame is a winner no matter which brand sports it. The curved edges and glass screen gives the device a premium look. The team behind the design of the One A9 have stated that great amount of time and attention has gone into its design, which does feel true.

December 4, 2015
HP to Work on High-End Tablets Priced Similar to Apple iPad

HP Slate 7 came out in 2013 and since then the tablet-business for the company has not been too smooth. HP had aimed to increase sales by keeping the prices low, but that couldn’t work for the company. The manufacturer decided to modify its tactics this year, the Cyber Monday sale being an example. This year, HP conducted a liquidation sale to sort out the inventory of its low-priced slate-tablets.

Additionally, HP has split itself into two companies -one aims at enterprises, the other at consumers. Tablets for “business mobility” will now be part of production of the company. President of Personal Systems at HP, David Coughlin says the tablets will now aim at retail, education and health care.

“We are going to focus where there is profitability and growth and will not chase the low-end tablet market. We are focusing on business mobility to deliver tablets built for field service, education, retail and healthcare,” says David Coughlin

As HP got rid of pretty much most of it low-range tablets, the tablets still on the website have similar price tags as iPads. HP Envy 8 Note are two consumer tablets available on the website. They feature an Intel Atom chipset and are priced at $329 and $429 respectively. These tablets are further equipped with a stylus controlled interface.

iPad Pro with the Apple Pencil

The lowest price tablets by HP are two variants of the HP Slate 8 which include an 8-inch device powered by Snapdragon 801 along with Android 5.0 pre-installed. These tablets are priced at $469 and $499.

December 4, 2015
Android Users Are Switching To iOS Faster Than Ever Before

Newly found reports suggest that the number of Android users switching to iOS is increasing. The Consumer Intelligence Research Partners report indicates that 26% of people who bought the iPhone 6s switched over from Android within the first month itself.

“The iPhone 6s and 6s Plus launch attracted a greater percentage of Android owners compared to a year ago,” explains Mike Levin, Partner and Co-Founder of CIRP.

Statistics show that previously, Android switchers accounted for 12% of iPhone 6 buyers and 23% of iPhone 5s buyers. However, this year’s reports have exceeded both the previous stats. Here is a CIRP chart showing the percentage of iPhone buyers who are switching over from Android:

Further reports also suggest that iPhone buyers are switching to buying the larger iPhone models this year. Here’s a table:

The above table indicates that the sales for the iPhone 6s Plus accounted for 37% of sales of new iPhone models this year, whereas the iPhone 6 Plus accounted for just 25% of new model sales in 2014; and thereby proving the second point. Overall, Apple seems to be moving forward in its goal of capturing the smartphone market slowly but steadily.

Source

December 2, 2015
OnePlus Launches a Sandstone Cover for iPhone 6 and 6s

OnePlus launched a cover for iPhone 6 and 6s yesterday. No, we didn’t make a mistake -it has happened. The cover is called OnePlus Sandstone Case and is available on the OnePlus website for $19.99 (about Rs. 1400).

The Sandstone Case is made of polycarbonate and is expected to provide the same tactic feeling as OnePlus devices. The measurements of the accessory are 138.7 x 70.2 x 10.5 mm, and it weighs 20 grams.

Just when you thought you’ve seen it all -there’s more. For a limited period, that is the holiday season, buyers will also find themselves a OnePlus X invite in the box of the cover. You may have paid a hefty sum to get to lay your hands on an iPhone 6 or 6s, but would you be now willing to cover it with the OnePlus logo?

Makers of the Sandstone Case clearly seem to think you would. That’s one confident -and bizarre- move, OnePlus. Many see this as the company’s attempt to move away from the image of being solely an Android vendor. Let’s see how the market responds to this.

December 2, 2015
What a Thinner iPhone Could Mean for You: Pros and Cons

Apple has been obsessed with making its iPhones thinner for a while now and has consciously and noticeably worked on reducing the thickness of its devices in the past. However, it may have not always ended too well for the company -Bendgate definitely not being the highlight of Apple’s history.

Though the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus were thicker than their predecessors at a 7.1 mm and a 7.3 mm, iPhone 7 is rumoured to be slimmest iPhones so far. Since speculations about this new Apple device have already begun,let’s see what this could mean for the user.

Pros:

No Ear-Phone Port:
If rumours are to be believed, Apple is planning to get rid of the earphone jack to make the iPhone 7 thinner than any of its predecessors. This move is part of Apple’s patent which aims to make the new device waterproof by getting rid of the port, thereby reducing the number of potential entrances of moisture and liquids for the device. Voila! Say hello to a waterproof iPhone (or at least one less exposed to damage by liquids), boys and girls.

Consequently, the device will probably need to have one common adapter that makes all earphones compatible with it. Additionally, Apple could also include a standard pair of earphones that could be used with the help of a connection to a Lightening conductor. Even if the device requires third-party adapters, they will be available at a fairly affordable price. Bluetooth can also be used as a replacement for earphones.

Convenient Size:
A thinner iPhone would definitely be easier to carry around. In all likelihood, it will weigh less than the 143 gms of the iPhone 6s and the 192 gms of iPhone 6s Plus, and thus would be lighter and more portable for the user.

Also, the current iPhones -6s and 6s Plus- have a thickness of 7.1 mm and 7.3 mm respectively. With its latest devices, Apple has come a long way from Bendgate. None of that was witnessed this year as the devices seems sturdy and hardy, in addition to being water-resistant. Time to rejoice, Apple fans and loyalists.

Cons:

Yes, the Ear-Phone Port:
Users would have to use Bluetooth or the Lightning connector instead of the earphone port. A Lightning cable or a 3.5 mm-to-Lightning adapter would have to be provided by third-party sellers in order to ensure compatibility with iPhone 7. These third-party sellers and their products, the hassle of extra accessories, or the need to use adapters -all of it will make things more complicated for users.

Apple is expected to take care of earpods that would connect to the Lightning port and launch accessories specific to the iPhone 7 and its absence of an earphone port. Needless to say -if this happens, be prepared to burn a whole in your pocket for a pure and authentic iPhone 7 experience.

Might be Sturdier, But Not Comfortable:
A thinner iPhone will not be very comfortable in the hand. The device will not provide a firm grip to the user if made too thin. The attempt of making the device sleek and stylish will completely backfire if it keeps slipping out of the hands. As sturdy as it might be, it will still be an iPhone.

Apple would also have to notch-up the speaker quality to ensure a decent over-all sound experience for iPhone 7. Instead of getting rid of the ear-phone jack, the company can instead tone down its paranoia of being repetitive with design, and let go of their obsession of making tech breakthroughs with a new iPhone every year. But if that happens, Apple would perhaps cease to be Apple.

December 2, 2015
Over 40% Dissatisfied Apple Watch Users Still Willing to Buy the Next Gen Model

A survey conducted by Wristly has revealed Apple Watch users to be largely dissatisfied with their new gadget. The Watch has failed to perform on many fronts and is being touted as a bad choice especially in terms of speed.

A survey of 330 unhappy users of the Apple Watch revealed that 55% of them tried using the device for a fortnight or more to see if they could get a hang of it, but to no avail. The Watch is not only slow, according to the participants, but also hard to use. The constant need to tilt it in order to get the time is another feature that didn’t go down well with the users.

This survey is definitely not winning Apple many customers, especially in India where Motorola launched its Moto 360 2nd Gen today. Looks like customers in the country are likely to give the Apple gizmo a pass now.

Moto 360 2nd Gen

However, having said that, it should be pointed out that about 41% of the survey participants accepted they are likely to buy the 2nd gen variant of the Apple Watch. Reasons behind this can only be speculated as perhaps evaluation of the Watch from a technological point of view, or some sort of brand loyalism Apple is infamous for generating in its customers.

Either way, looks like the market offers tough competition to both the Motorola as well as the Apple smartwatch. Which one would you rather prefer?

December 1, 2015
Apple Experimenting With Five Prototypes For the iPhone 7

The iPhone 7 has not even been announced, and the the iPhone 6s released just a couple of months back. But, that does not stop users and tech fans to get preposterously curious about the next iPhone – the iPhone 7. So, there is good news for them – a new report suggests that Apple might be looking at five different prototypes this time, for the iPhone 7.

The timeline for the iPhone goes somewhat like this – the iPhone 3GS was followed by the Apple iPhone 4 and iPhone 4s which introduced Siri. The following year saw the iPhone 5 with a 4 inch screen and then came the revolutionary iPhone 6 with a 4.7 inch screen and the 6 Plus with a 5.5 inch display; after which we know about the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus.

Now, returning back to the good news bit, Apple is also testing a bunch of new features on the prototypes; such as – testing a USB Type C port that supports headsets, wireless charging capabilities, fingerprint scanner within the phone’s display, multi-Touch Force, and maybe a dual camera set-up for the rear of the handset. There are also further reports that claim that Apple is experimenting with an AMOLED screen too. Apple has not confirmed anything yet, but until then let us hope that the iPhone 7 is another revolutionary smartphone.

December 1, 2015
Microsoft Sends Out Cortana To Be Tested By iOS Users

After providing a version of Cortana to Android users, Microsoft is now looking for Windows Insiders willing to test Cortana on iOS. This process is underway as reports surfaced suggesting that iOS testers have received an email alerting them that Microsoft’s virtual personal assistant was available for download.

This version of Cortana for iOS offers voice responses to questions, provides sports scores, stock prices, reminders, alarms, and much more. And because Cortana is not just any virtual assistant, it comes with its own personality to tell jokes and sing songs. Further reports suggest that this version of Cortana for iOS is being distributed by Apple’s TestFlight and is limited to only 2000 testers. With this, Microsoft is planning to look for a way where Cortana can be used to connect iPhone users with their Windows powered PC.

Microsoft has suggested that testers set a reminder using Cortana on their PC in order to see how it works on the iPhone, and also to use it to hold meetings so that they can test whether Cortana is able to help users do so. Apart from that, interactions with Cortana are supposed to be like interactions with any other human personal assistant, so users are suggested to speak to it just like they would with any human assistant.

However, Microsoft has made no confirmation about how long this testing will last, but as of now this definitely makes the wait for iOS users shorter.

November 28, 2015
Waterproof iPhone 7 May Have No Earphone Jack

According to sources, Apple has applied for a unique patent called “Electronic Devices with Housing Port Shutters”. This patent is unique in the realm of smartphones because it aims at sealing off all ports on the body of the handset to protect it from the entry of moisture or any kind of liquids. As a result, iPhone 7 is expected to come minus an ear-phone jack.

This technology would determine that the ports of the phone remain shut until there is a direct use for them. Like the speaker-shutters would shut if the sensors pick up any kind of moisture. In case of a call or message, the shutters would open to convey the sound, keeping the device protected from external agents at all other times.

Unofficial render of the iPhone 7

Additionally, a Japanese website, Macotakara, reported that Apple would remove the 3.5 mm port for earphones to make iPhone 7 slimmer. Users would have to use Bluetooth or the Lightning connector instead of the earphone port. Apple is also expected to take care of earpods that would connect to the Lightning port. A Lightning cable or a 3.5 mm-to-Lightning adapter would have to be provided by third-party sellers in order to ensure compatibility with iPhone 7.

Despite rumours of an early 2016-release, iPhone 7 is expected to arrive in September. Would you be willing to take chances with a handset that comes minus an earphone jack? Or has Apple taken it a little too far this time?

November 28, 2015