Tag: Apple A18

  • New Apple iPad Launch: Major Performance Upgrade Over Previous Model

    New Apple iPad Launch: Major Performance Upgrade Over Previous Model

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has refreshed several product lines, including the Studio Display, MacBook Pro, iPad Air, and introduced new products like the Studio Display XDR and iPhone 17e.
    2. The new AirPods Max 2 were launched in five colors, priced at $529.99 on Amazon.
    3. A new entry-level iPad 12th Generation is anticipated, with ESR Tech advertising ‘paper-feel’ screen protectors for it.
    4. The design of the iPad 12th Gen is expected to remain the same, featuring an 11-inch display and a landscape-oriented front-facing camera.
    5. The iPad 12th Gen is likely to be powered by the A18 chipset, offering over 20% more power than its predecessor, the A16 Bionic, and will include 8 GB of RAM.


    Apple has refreshed several of its product lines this month as part of a larger launch plan. To summarize, the tech giant upgraded the Studio Display, MacBook Pro, and iPad Air while also unveiling the Studio Display XDR, iPhone 17e, and MacBook Neo. Last week, they surprisingly introduced the AirPods Max 2 in five different colors, currently priced at $529.99 on Amazon.

    New iPad on the Horizon

    ESR Tech suggests that a new entry-level iPad is on the way. Even though Apple hasn’t made any formal announcements, ESR Tech is promoting ‘paper-feel’ screen protectors specifically for the iPad 12th Generation. While the listing is still available online at the time of this writing, we’ve included images below in case ESR Tech removes its advertisement.

    Design and Features

    It appears that the design of the iPad will stay the same for its 12th Generation. The tablet will keep the flat 11-inch display with relatively thick, uniform bezels. ESR Tech anticipates that Apple will maintain a front-facing camera designed for landscape use as well.

    Performance Upgrades

    Furthermore, the iPad 12th Gen is expected to come equipped with Apple’s A18 chipset. Although the A18 has been succeeded by the A19 and A19 Pro, it should still provide over 20% more power compared to its predecessor, which was backed by the A16 Bionic. Single-core performance might see increases between 24% and 30%. This SoC upgrade is likely to ensure that the iPad 12th Gen includes 8 GB of RAM and support for Apple Intelligence too.

    ESR Tech via GSMArena

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  • Apple HomePod Leak Reveals FaceID and ARM Chip Features

    Apple HomePod Leak Reveals FaceID and ARM Chip Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple HomePad hub may feature a square display, with a possible release in spring 2026.
    2. Internal iOS 26 beta code confirms the HomePad hub’s existence, identified by model number “J490”.
    3. The hub is expected to include a wide front-facing camera with Center Stage tracking and potential Face ID support.
    4. The device may be powered by an Apple A18 ARM chip and have a 7-inch touchscreen and built-in speaker.
    5. A second device, model J229, has been identified, likely a smart security camera or video doorbell, also expected in spring 2026.


    The Apple HomePad hub has made another appearance in recent reports. A few months back, there were rumors about a HomePod featuring a square display, with expectations for its release in spring 2026.

    New Insights from iOS 26

    Macworld has discovered some code within an internal beta version of iOS 26 that seems to confirm the existence of this smart home hub. The device is identified by the model number “J490”, which has previously been associated with the HomePad. According to the code, this hub could come with a wide front-facing camera. It is believed that this camera will include the Center Stage tracking feature, potentially enhancing FaceTime calls. Additionally, the anticipated 1080p camera may also support Face ID, providing security by recognizing users and customizing settings accordingly.

    Specifications and Competition

    The recent findings also suggest that the HomePad Hub might be powered by an Apple A18 ARM chip. Bloomberg had earlier indicated that the device could sport a touchscreen of around 7 inches and include a built-in speaker. This positions the new Apple smart home hub to rival devices like the Amazon Echo Show 8, which is currently priced at $159.99 on Amazon.

    A Mysterious Second Device

    Moreover, the code has revealed a second device, identified as model J229, which seems to feature its own camera, microphone, and various sensors. This hints that it could be the smart security camera or video doorbell that has been rumored for some time. Like the HomePad Hub, this device is also expected to be launched in spring 2026.

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  • iPhone 17 Set to Launch with iPhone 16 Internals

    iPhone 17 Set to Launch with iPhone 16 Internals

    Key Takeaways

    1. iPhone 17 will be slightly larger than the iPhone 16 and will feature improved rear cameras and a true ProMotion display.
    2. It is expected to run on the Apple A18 SoC and maintain the same RAM (8GB) as the iPhone 16, while Pro models may see RAM upgrades.
    3. The 2024 iPhone will have a redesigned look, upgraded Wi-Fi 7, and a larger battery, but will keep the same camera and display specs as the iPhone 15.
    4. The iPhone 16 has been a best-seller, topping global sales charts for the first quarter of 2025.
    5. The base model iPhone 16 is priced around $700 in Renewed Premium condition and has outperformed other leading smartphones.


    The iPhone 17 is expected to be a bit bigger than the 16 model, featuring better rear cameras and an upgrade to a true ProMotion display that previous versions have missed out on for years.

    Performance and Specifications

    However, the new look might not be all that it seems. The iPhone 17 is rumored to run on the Apple A18 SoC, similar to the existing 16 and 16 Plus models. Analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities has shared this prediction and suggests that the 17 will maintain the same RAM as the 16, which is 8GB. Meanwhile, the Pro and Pro Max versions are expected to receive RAM enhancements.

    Design and Features

    In contrast, the iPhone set to launch in 2024 will sport a redesigned look that aligns with its updated hardware, including an upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 and a larger battery. Interestingly, it will retain the same camera and display specs as the iPhone 15.

    It’ll be fascinating to see whether the new model can match the success of its predecessor, which recently topped the best-selling smartphone list from Counterpoint Research, based on global sales data from the first quarter of 2025.

    Market Performance

    Currently, the base model 16 is priced at about $700 in Renewed Premium condition on Amazon and has outperformed other top smartphones, including the 16 Pro Max and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra. This achievement marks the first time since the iPhone 13 claimed the top spot in 2023.

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  • Apple M4 MacBook Air Release Soon; M5 MacBook Pro Timeline Leaked

    Apple M4 MacBook Air Release Soon; M5 MacBook Pro Timeline Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone SE 4 will be revealed this Wednesday.
    2. The new MacBook Air with the M4 chip is expected to launch by March, possibly as early as February.
    3. After the MacBook Air, Apple will focus on the M4 Mac Studio and M4 Mac Pro, set to launch in the summer.
    4. The Apple M5 chip will debut in a MacBook Pro in the fall, with the M5 iPad Pro coming in the first half of 2026.
    5. Other anticipated products include a new AirTag, iPad Air, smart home hub, and updates to Apple Watch and Apple TV 4K.


    Apple has announced that the iPhone SE 4 will be revealed this Wednesday. A recent report from Bloomberg has shared some insights about what we can expect moving forward. One of the main highlights is the upcoming 2024 MacBook Air (around $1,099 on Amazon), which is not expected to have many enhancements apart from the new Apple M4 chip. New units of the MacBook Air have been on their way from factories to Apple’s warehouse for several weeks now.

    Release Timeline

    The M4 MacBook Air is expected to be available by March at the latest, and there’s even a chance it could arrive as early as February. After that, Apple will shift its attention to the M4 Mac Studio and M4 Mac Pro, both of which are anticipated to launch in the summer. Following this, the Apple M5 chip will make its debut in the fall. Interestingly, the report mentions that the M5 chip will first be introduced in a MacBook Pro, while the M5 iPad Pro won’t be released until the first half of 2026. This represents a significant change in Apple’s strategy for launching its M-series chips, as the current ARM chip first appeared in an iPad Pro.

    Other Product Launches

    In addition to new Macs, the iPhone 17 series and updated Apple Watches, Apple is also rumored to have several other products lined up for this year. These include a new AirTag with better Bluetooth range, a new iPad Air, and an iPad 11 expected in the first half of 2025. Later in the year, we might also see a new HomePod mini and an updated Apple TV 4K. Another intriguing product that might launch this year is Apple’s smart home hub, which is said to include a powerful Apple A18 ARM chip, a nearly square 6-inch display, and a unique smart home user interface. Additionally, an upgraded 27-inch Studio Display with mini-LED backlighting is reportedly planned for release by 2026, but a successor to the Pro Display XDR seems to be off the table for now.

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  • Apple iPhone SE 4 Launching with Limited Storage, Retailer Says

    Apple iPhone SE 4 Launching with Limited Storage, Retailer Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple will announce a new product on February 19, likely the fourth-generation iPhone SE.
    2. The starting price for the new iPhone SE is rumored to be $499.
    3. The smartphone may feature the latest Apple A18 ARM chip, a 6.1-inch OLED display, and a 48 MP primary camera.
    4. The base model is expected to have only 64 GB of storage, limiting usable space for users.
    5. Storage upgrade prices may follow previous models, with the 128 GB version possibly priced at $599 and the 256 GB version at $699.


    On Thursday, Apple announced that they will reveal a new product on Wednesday, February 19. Both a brief teaser video from Apple and various rumors hint that the fourth-generation iPhone SE will be showcased on that day.

    Pricing and Features

    The new smartphone is rumored to have a starting price of $499, making it very attractive in terms of value since Apple is likely to equip it with the latest Apple A18 ARM chip, a 6.1-inch OLED display that includes a notch, a 12 MP front-facing camera with Face ID capabilities, along with a 48 MP primary camera. However, Apple might intentionally make the base version less appealing to buyers by restricting its storage capacity.

    Storage Concerns

    A report from a Chinese online retailer indicates that the lowest-priced iPhone SE 4 will feature 8 GB of RAM, which should facilitate Apple Intelligence, but only 64 GB of flash storage. This is identical to the more affordable iPhone SE 3 from 2022 but is only half of what the base version of the iPhone 16 offers. Practically, this storage is even less since, according to Apple, iOS 18 and its system applications need almost 17 GB, while Apple Intelligence uses an additional 7 GB.

    Consequently, users would be left with merely 40 GB for their apps, music, photos, and other personal data. If Apple applies the same pricing for storage upgrades as seen with the iPhone SE 3, the 128 GB model might retail for $599, and the 256 GB version could be priced at $699. As always, these leaks should be approached cautiously; whether Apple will actually reduce the storage capacity of the base model just before the launch will become clear next week.

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  • Apple iPhone 16e: The SE Successor Launching Before 2025

    Apple iPhone 16e: The SE Successor Launching Before 2025

    Rumors about a new iPhone SE are reaching a peak. Recently, it seems that the much-anticipated phone might not even be released under the iPhone SE name. Instead, Apple is likely planning to include this new device in the iPhone 16 lineup as the iPhone 16e, similar to what they did in the past with the iPhone 5C and the iPhone XR.

    Dummy Units and Specifications

    Well-known Apple leaker Sonny Dickson has shared pictures of two dummy models, which will probably serve as the basis for accessory makers. This means that the device’s dimensions should be correct, although some finer details might differ, like the presence of an Action Button instead of the traditional mute switch.

    Design and Features

    The overall appearance is consistent with earlier leaks that described a design resembling the iPhone 4, featuring a single large rear camera that is significantly bigger than the one found in the iPhone SE 3rd Gen (currently priced at $165 for renewed units on Amazon). The iPhone 16e also boasts flat edges, like those seen in recent iPhone models, which is a nod to the designs of older iPhones.

    Display and Performance

    While it’s hard to see the display clearly, it is said to feature the same 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen as the iPhone 14. Additional specs include an Apple A18 chip with 8 GB of RAM to enhance Apple Intelligence, USB Type-C connectivity, and a 48 MP rear camera. The iPhone 16e, or iPhone SE 4, is expected to be unveiled this quarter.

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  • Tipster Reveals iPhone 16E Details from Hands-On Experience

    Tipster Reveals iPhone 16E Details from Hands-On Experience

    The iPhone SE is now thought to be rebranded as the iPhone 16E. Just like the previous iPhone SE versions, it will emphasize being budget-friendly. Apple’s last release of the SE model was in 2022, so the new version is expected to bring some important updates.

    Display Features

    A reliable source, Digital Chat Station, has said they have seen the materials for the iPhone 16E. The source notes that this new model will come with a 6.06-inch LTPS OLED screen that has an FHD+ resolution and a refresh rate of 60Hz. Additionally, there is mention of a notch that will include Face ID tech. It’s believed that the overall design will be similar to the iPhone 14 from two generations ago.

    Performance and Specifications

    The iPhone 16E is rumored to be powered by the Apple A18 chip, which is also used in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. Earlier rumors have suggested that the device might include 8GB of RAM, and with the A18 chip, it’s expected that the iPhone 16E will offer support for Apple Intelligence features.

    Camera and Pricing

    According to the leaker, the phone will have just one rear camera. Besides that, it reportedly has a flat metal frame and comes with a water resistance rating. Finally, the insider claims it will be the most affordable iPhone on the market, with earlier speculations indicating a price of $499.

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  • Apple iPhone SE 4 Specs, Price, and Launch Timeline Leaked

    Apple iPhone SE 4 Specs, Price, and Launch Timeline Leaked

    Apple is not likely to update the iPhone SE series in 2024, but there are rumors of a new model arriving in early 2025. A prior leak suggested that this new version will borrow features from the last three flagship phones, including the Apple A18 SoC found in the latest iPhone 16 lineup. This upgrade would provide the upcoming budget-friendly phone with a significant boost in performance.

    Launch Timeline

    Although Apple has not yet disclosed specifics about the 2025 iPhone SE, a recent leak indicates that the affordable model could debut in March 2025. This timeline aligns with information shared by Ming-Chi Kuo in a recent analysis. Kuo has indicated that mass production for this phone will kick off in December 2024.

    Specifications Unveiled

    The fresh leak also outlines possible specifications for the iPhone SE 4. In addition to the Apple A18 SoC, it is said that the display will be 6.06 inches, confirming earlier reports from Ice Universe. Furthermore, like some earlier claims, this spec leak states that the front will feature a notch similar to that of the iPhone 14, along with a single camera located on the rear.

    The display is reportedly M11 grade, consistent with the iPhone 14, and the rear camera is expected to be the Sony 48 MP IMX904.

    RAM and Connectivity

    Additionally, the spec leak suggests that the iPhone SE 4 will come equipped with 8 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, which meets Apple’s minimum requirements for its Intelligent features. Another notable detail from the leak is the inclusion of a proprietary 5G chip, which Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned back in July this year.

    Pricing Insights

    Regarding pricing, earlier reports indicated a cost below $500, and the new leak suggests that the iPhone SE 4 could begin at $499 (the M2 iPad Air is currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon). In general, this leak appears to be a compilation of prior reports from various sources, so it’s wise to approach it with a healthy dose of skepticism.

    @Jukanlosreve on X (tweet embedded above) via: Wccftech


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