Tag: Apple

  • iPhone 17 Pro Design Leaks: New Features and Changes Revealed

    iPhone 17 Pro Design Leaks: New Features and Changes Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. New images reveal the design of the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro, showing significant changes from the iPhone 16 Pro.
    2. The camera bar has been revamped, with a full-width glass panel and relocated LED flash and LiDAR sensor.
    3. The iPhone 17 Pro features smoother curves on its sides compared to its predecessor.
    4. The SIM tray location has been changed, but there will be no reintroduction of the SIM card slot for US markets.
    5. An initial MagSafe clear case indicates design modifications, including a large camera cut-out and a redesigned MagSafe ring.


    X account Majin Bu has shared new images revealing the design of one of Apple’s upcoming iPhones, set to launch this autumn. Just two days ago, the same account showcased a glimpse of the so-called iPhone 17 Air, which we have detailed in a separate article.

    Overview of the iPhone 17 Pro

    Now, Majin Bu has shifted focus to the iPhone 17 Pro, which is expected to differ in design from the current iPhone 16 Pro (currently priced at $799 – renewed on Amazon) in several aspects. Notably, Apple is likely to have revamped its signature camera bar. While the triple-camera arrangement stays the same, a full-width glass panel will let Apple move its LED flash and LiDAR sensor towards the outer edges on the right side of the iPhone 17 Pro.

    Design Changes and Features

    The iPhone 17 Pro’s sides also show a smoother curve compared to its predecessor. Additionally, it appears that Apple has relocated the SIM tray between these models. However, there are no indications that the company will reintroduce the SIM card slot in their Pro iPhones for markets like the US.

    An initial MagSafe clear case hints at the expected design modifications that Apple is planning to implement with the iPhone 17 Pro. The case features a large cut-out for the camera housing, along with openings for the Camera Control button, USB Type-C port, and bottom-firing speakers. A redesigned MagSafe ring is also visible, which accommodates a shifted Apple logo.

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  • iPhone 17 Air Expected to Feature Pro-Level Specifications

    iPhone 17 Air Expected to Feature Pro-Level Specifications

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple may introduce the iPhone 17 Air to replace the Plus model, making it the slimmest iPhone yet.
    2. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature the A19 Pro SoC and 12 GB of RAM, competing with Pro models in certain areas.
    3. It will likely have a single 48MP rear camera, a 2,800 mAh battery, and one speaker, sacrificing some features for a thinner design.
    4. The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to be priced between the standard iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro.
    5. All details about the iPhone 17 series remain speculative, pending official announcements from Apple.


    Apple is gearing up to make changes with its upcoming iPhone 17 series, likely introducing an iPhone 17 Air to take the place of the Plus model. This new Air version is said to be the slimmest iPhone yet. For some time, there have been rumors about its reduced specifications, but recent leaks suggest that it could compete with the Pro variants in more areas than earlier thought.

    Specifications Leaked

    The latest scoop comes from a popular leaker, Fixed Focus Digital, who shared details on Weibo. According to this source, the iPhone 17 Air will sport the A19 Pro SoC along with 12 GB of RAM, mirroring the specs of the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Max. Initially, it was thought that the Pro SoC would only be available in the Pro and Max variants, but this leak changes that narrative. However, the Air will have a different GPU configuration, featuring a five-core GPU instead of the six cores found in its Pro and Max counterparts. Meanwhile, the basic iPhone 17 is expected to have the A19 chip and 8 GB of RAM.

    Compromises Made for Slimmer Design

    In addition to these specifications, the iPhone 17 Air is likely to have several trade-offs. Reports indicate it will include a single 48MP rear camera, a modest 2,800 mAh battery even with the Silicon-Carbon technology, and just one speaker. These compromises aim to achieve a lighter and thinner design, which Apple believes most users might not prefer. Regarding its dimensions, the phone is anticipated to measure only 5.5 mm thick (with a 9.5 mm thickness around the camera bump).

    Pricing Expectations

    Concerning the pricing, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be positioned between the standard iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro, aligning with its role as a successor to the Plus model. It’s important to note that Apple hasn’t confirmed any details about the iPhone 17 series yet, so all of this remains speculative. Nevertheless, several industry experts and insiders have echoed similar information regarding the iPhone 17 Air, lending some credibility to these claims.

    In conclusion, the iPhone 17 Air is shaping up to be a unique addition to Apple’s lineup, but we’ll have to wait for official announcements to see how everything pans out.

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  • Apple iPhone 16 Mini Render Video: A Dream for Compact Smartphone Fans

    Apple iPhone 16 Mini Render Video: A Dream for Compact Smartphone Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. A concept video showcases what an iPhone 16 Mini might look like, highlighting interest in compact smartphones.
    2. The iPhone 16 is currently the smallest model, with a 6.1-inch screen, larger than the discontinued iPhone 13 Mini.
    3. A petition on Change.org advocates for the return of the Mini series, but previous models failed in the market.
    4. Future compact smartphones are expected to remain in the 6.1 to 6.3-inch range, favored by various manufacturers.
    5. The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated for release in September 2025, signaling a shift towards thinner models.


    This weekend, fans of compact smartphones can enjoy a unique video portrayal of what an iPhone 16 Mini might look like, set to the tune of “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” by Creedence Clearwater Revival. Currently, the smallest iPhone available is the iPhone 16, which features a 6.1-inch screen, while the Pro version has a slightly bigger display. Although this size is considered small compared to many current smartphones, it is still larger than the last officially released “mini iPhone,” the iPhone 13 Mini, which was phased out in favor of larger models like the Plus.

    A Call for Change

    Many people share the sentiment that it’s unfortunate to see the Mini series go, and there’s even a petition on Change.org advocating for its return. However, with only 456 supporters so far, it highlights a key issue that likely influenced Apple’s decision to discontinue the Mini line: the iPhone 12 Mini and iPhone 13 Mini were not particularly successful in the market. Interestingly, the same fate seems to await the successors of the Plus series, as rumors suggest they may also be shelved. Instead, the new trend appears to be “thin.” Following Samsung’s release of the Galaxy S25 Edge, Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 17 Air in September 2025, potentially starting a new chapter of success.

    The Future of Compact Phones

    For those who prefer smartphones that are as compact as possible, it seems the future will only offer options in the 6.1 to 6.3-inch range, a size increasingly favored by Android manufacturers. Brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, as well as Samsung and Apple, will continue to provide this screen size as an alternative to the larger 6.7 to 6.9-inch models. Returning to the iPhone 16 Mini, a concept video created by US render artist Asher Dipprey illustrates what a modern mini iPhone could resemble in 2025. This vision includes the advanced Apple A18 chip, a vertical dual-camera setup, a dynamic island, and an action button in place of the mute switch.

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  • Apple Stops Development of Foldable iPad, Report Says

    Apple Stops Development of Foldable iPad, Report Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has reportedly paused development on its foldable iPad due to various challenges.
    2. Manufacturing issues, such as creating durable folding screens and hinge systems, are significant obstacles.
    3. Market demand for foldable tablets is currently limited, making it a niche segment.
    4. Internal evaluations may not support the investment needed for a foldable iPad at this time.
    5. The delay does not mean cancellation; Apple may revisit the foldable iPad concept in the future as technology and market conditions change.


    Rumors about a foldable iPad becoming part of Apple’s popular product range have been around for a while. The concept of a larger screen that can fold for easier carrying is definitely intriguing. Nevertheless, new reports indicate that these foldable iPad aspirations might be postponed, at least for the time being.

    Development Delays

    Although details are still quite limited and not officially confirmed by Apple, a recent report from DigiTimes suggests that Apple has stopped working on its foldable iPad. The reasons for this supposed hold-up refer to several crucial elements that may have caused Apple to rethink its short-term objectives in this field.

    Manufacturing Challenges

    A major obstacle frequently mentioned in the creation of foldable gadgets is the production process. Designing sturdy and dependable folding screens at scale presents a significant engineering challenge. Problems with the hinge system, screen folding marks, and overall durability are all issues that producers need to tackle. It’s likely that Apple faced challenges in meeting its quality benchmarks without causing prices to soar.

    Market Considerations

    In addition to production difficulties, there may also be factors related to market demand and pricing. While foldable technology is certainly captivating, the existing market for foldable tablets is probably a very niche segment when compared to regular tablets. Apple likely evaluates potential demand thoroughly, and it’s possible that internal estimates did not support the hefty investment needed for a costly, foldable iPad.

    It’s essential to understand that this reported delay doesn’t necessarily imply a total cancellation of a foldable iPad in the future. Apple is recognized for its long-term research and development initiatives, and the concept could definitely be revisited later as technology advances and market dynamics shift. The Apple Vision Pro, despite its market struggles, illustrates this point as it aims to play a significant role for the company down the line.

    At this moment, though, those who are eagerly waiting for a folding iPad from Apple may need to exercise a bit more patience.

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  • Huawei set to launch world’s first HBM DRAM smartphone before Apple

    Huawei set to launch world’s first HBM DRAM smartphone before Apple

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-bandwidth memory (HBM) may soon be available in smartphones, moving beyond its current use in AI-centric hardware.
    2. Advanced smartphones currently use low-power DDR5X (LPDDR5X) RAM, which offers ~68 GB/s performance but may need an upgrade for future demands.
    3. The next generation of mobile RAM could include low-latency wide I/O DRAM (LLW DRAM), enhancing AI capabilities but not reaching ~2TB/s bandwidth.
    4. New mobile RAM technology is expected to achieve speeds of up to 128 GB/s.
    5. Apple is a strong contender to introduce HBM smartphones, but Huawei and Samsung may also lead the market with their developments.


    High-bandwidth memory (HBM) is typically found in the top-tier AI-centric hardware from companies like AMD and NVIDIA. However, new whispers suggest that this technology could soon be appearing in pocket-sized devices.

    Current Smartphone RAM Trends

    At present, the most advanced smartphones utilize RAM that relies on low-power DDR5X (or LPDDR5X), favored for its efficiency and speed. Even though it can reach around ~68 gigabytes per second (GB/s) performance, this may soon not be enough, encouraging manufacturers to consider a major upgrade.

    Future Needs in Mobile RAM

    The next evolution in mobile RAM could be crucial to keep pace with the growing requirements of powerful artificial intelligence (AI) in the near future.

    However, a reliable leaker, Fixed Focus Digital, claims that the so-called smartphone HBM (or ‘mobile HBM’) won’t actually hit the nearly ~2TB/s bandwidth. Instead, it will resemble a newly developed type of low-latency wide I/O DRAM (or LLW DRAM), designed to enhance AI capabilities.

    Next-Gen Speed Capabilities

    In its current state, this new technology is expected to reach impressive processing speeds of up to 128GB/s.

    When it comes to being the first to introduce ‘HBM smartphones,’ Apple and its iPhones are seen as strong contenders. Yet, another company may actually beat them to the market.

    This other potential frontrunner could be Huawei; however, with Samsung also producing HBM and LLW RAM, they are in an excellent position to lead this anticipated upgrade.

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  • Apple Drops Siri for Private ChatGPT and Claude AI Models

    Apple Drops Siri for Private ChatGPT and Claude AI Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is negotiating with OpenAI and Anthropic to use their large language models for Siri after struggling with its own AI development.
    2. The launch of Siri’s upgrades has been delayed twice until 2026, causing frustration within Apple’s AI team.
    3. Leadership changes were made in Apple’s AI team following the failure of Siri to drive iPhone upgrades and delays in the internal LLM.
    4. Apple found that Anthropic’s Claude LLM performed better than its Foundation Models for enhancing Siri’s capabilities.
    5. Privacy remains a top concern, with Apple exploring options to run third-party models on its own servers to maintain user privacy.


    After a time of testing its own Siri AI against competitors like ChatGPT, Claude, and Google Gemini, Apple is reportedly ready to give up on its Foundation Models.

    Talks with OpenAI and Anthropic

    The company is currently negotiating with OpenAI and Anthropic to utilize their large language models (LLMs) for the AI features it promised for Siri since introducing Apple Intelligence nine months ago.

    Sadly, Apple has struggled to implement the Siri AI upgrade using its own LLM, even on its most advanced devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and has postponed it twice until 2026. The AI team seems to be either disheartened by the unclear guidance or attracted by the huge paychecks that companies like Meta and OpenAI offer to lure away their engineers.

    Changes in Leadership

    When the mostly unoriginal Apple Intelligence features failed to drive an upgrade cycle for the iPhone and the internal Siri LLM faced delays, Apple decided to replace the leader of its AI team and initiated a performance review. The findings suggested that the Siri AI capabilities it intended to deliver would be better served by Anthropic’s Claude LLM instead of its Foundation Models.

    Next in line for performance was ChatGPT, which is why Apple is in discussions with both Anthropic and OpenAI to establish a partnership to enhance Siri with their chatbot technologies.

    Privacy Concerns

    Apple’s primary concern when considering a third-party service is the privacy of iPhone users. It has explored the option of running Anthropic or OpenAI’s code on its own Private Cloud Compute server clusters, asking them to create tailored ChatGPT and Claude models that would allow Apple to maintain control over the privacy settings for future Siri AI users.

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  • AirPods Pro 3 Found in Bluetooth Code, Launch Imminent

    AirPods Pro 3 Found in Bluetooth Code, Launch Imminent

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple may be developing AirPods Pro 3, indicated by a new identifier ‘8239’ found in their codebase.
    2. The new identifier does not match existing AirPods or Beats models, suggesting a possible launch soon.
    3. There’s a chance the identifier could relate to a refresh of a Beats product, so the information should be taken cautiously.
    4. Anticipated features for AirPods Pro 3 may include infrared cameras, AI capabilities, and improved design and audio quality.
    5. The AirPods Pro 3 could be revealed alongside the iPhone 17 series and might offer enhanced health-related features.


    Apple introduced the first-generation AirPods Pro back in October 2019, followed by an update in September 2022. Since that update, there hasn’t been any new version of these true wireless earbuds. However, a recent leak indicates that the AirPods Pro 3 might be on their way, possibly nearing their release. Importantly, Apple has not yet provided any details regarding the next iteration of the AirPods Pro earbuds.

    New Identifier Found

    According to a report from Macrumors, Apple has made changes to its codebase, adding a new identifier that is thought to belong to the AirPods Pro 3. The company utilizes Bluetooth ID numbers for its AirPods and Beats headphones. The report mentions that the device syncing codebase has received a new identifier, ‘8239.’ This identifier does not match any current AirPods or Beats models, hinting that the new AirPods Pro 3 are under development and might be close to being launched.

    Possible Beats Connection

    While the report suggests that this new identifier likely pertains to the AirPods Pro 3, it also raises the possibility that it could be related to a refresh of a Beats product. Therefore, it’s wise to take this information with a grain of salt.

    Anticipated Features

    As previously noted, Apple hasn’t disclosed any specifics about the AirPods Pro 3. However, there are rumors that they may be revealed this year, possibly alongside the iPhone 17 series. Speculation also suggests that the upcoming models might include infrared (IR) cameras and utilize AI to “understand the outside world and provide information to the user,” as stated by Mark Gurman via 9to5Mac.

    The AirPods Pro 3 are expected to be a significant improvement over the nearly three-year-old AirPods Pro 2. They might offer a sleeker design, enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC), and better audio quality. Given that the AirPods Pro 2 introduced a Hearing Aid feature, it is likely that the new models will include even more health-related capabilities.

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  • Apple Launches Core Technology Commission for Non-App Store Sales

    Apple Launches Core Technology Commission for Non-App Store Sales

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has created a Core Technology Commission (CTC) that takes 5% of sales for digital products promoted via Web Distribution.
    2. The CTC will be in addition to an existing Core Technology Fee (CTF) of €0.50 per app download for popular apps.
    3. Apple plans to reduce its commission rates to 17% for most developers and 10% for qualifying small businesses and subscription apps during their first year.
    4. Apple claims only “less than 1%” of developers will pay the CTF, with exemptions for certain organizations like educational and non-profit entities.
    5. Tim Sweeney criticized Apple’s new fees as “malicious compliance” with the DMA, claiming they limit developers’ payment options and profitability.


    Apple has recently announced its latest strategies to dodge the hefty €500 million (~$585 million) penalty imposed by the European Commission due to its breach of the Digital Market Act (DMA).

    New Core Technology Commission

    The new plans from the tech giant involve setting up a Core Technology Commission (CTC). This commission will take 5% of the selling price for all digital products or services that are promoted and available through Web Distribution. This new method allows developers to guide customers to pay for apps outside the App Store.

    Additional Fees and Commissions

    The CTC will be applied on top of Apple’s existing Core Technology Fee (CTF), which is a fixed charge of €0.50 (~$0.59) for each app download from those with over 1 million installs per year.

    In an effort to encourage developers to keep their apps and payments within Apple’s iOS and iPadOS Store in the EU, the company plans to lower its well-known commission rates to 17%. For developers who qualify for the App Store Small Business Program or those who offer subscription-based apps, the rate will drop to 10%, but only during the first year of operation.

    Developer Concerns

    Apple claims that “less than 1%” of those affected by the new charges will actually pay the CTF. Moreover, there are several exemptions, such as app developers working with educational institutions, government bodies, or non-profit organizations, who will not be subject to the fee.

    However, Tim Sweeney has taken to X to criticize Apple’s new conditions, labeling them as “malicious compliance” with the DMA, which he argues does not meet the company’s legal responsibilities in either the EU or the US.

    The executive also claims that Apple’s updated policies restrict developers’ options for offering different payment methods, making it hard for them to earn profits on the App Store.

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  • Apple’s iPhone Fold: Rumored Blend of iPad Mini and iPhone 13 Mini

    Apple’s iPhone Fold: Rumored Blend of iPad Mini and iPhone 13 Mini

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s first foldable phone, the iPhone Fold, is expected to be unveiled in September alongside the iPhone 18 series.
    2. The device may feature dual 48 MP cameras, positioning it between standard and Pro models.
    3. A composite material hinge and titanium alloy frame are being developed for enhanced strength and reduced weight.
    4. The iPhone Fold is rumored to have a 14.1:10 aspect ratio and a compact design, with a 7.58-inch foldable display.
    5. Anticipation is building for the iPhone Fold, with expectations of selling 5 million units by the end of 2026.


    The debut of Apple’s first foldable phone is believed to still be some time away. Recent insights from Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that the anticipated iPhone Fold could be unveiled next September, coinciding with the iPhone 18 series. Currently, Apple’s most optimistic outlook is to sell 5 million units by the conclusion of 2026.

    New Features Revealed

    In the meantime, Digital Chat Station has provided some fresh details regarding the device’s foldable display and its other characteristics. The leaker indicates that Apple is testing the iPhone Fold with a pair of 48 MP cameras, which would place it in between the company’s standard and Pro iPhones. Additionally, Digital Chat Station mentions that Apple is working on a composite material hinge and a titanium alloy frame to enhance strength while keeping the weight down.

    Design Specifications

    Furthermore, the leaker claims that the latest prototype comes with a foldable screen that has a 14.1:10 aspect ratio. This means that the iPhone Fold might resemble the form factor of the Oppo Find N2 and Pixel Fold more than the newer Find N5 or Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Reports also suggest that Samsung has supplied a 7.58-inch foldable display with a native resolution of 2,713 x 1,920 pixels.

    As a result, it appears that the iPhone Fold will be more compact than the iPad mini 7 (currently $489 on Amazon) when fully opened, due to the latter’s 8.3-inch fixed screen. Furthermore, Apple’s inaugural foldable is expected to feature a cover display smaller than 6 inches, marking the first time an iPhone has been below that size since the iPhone 13 mini.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the anticipation for Apple’s foldable continues to grow, with speculation around its features and design only adding to the excitement. The iPhone Fold aims to blend innovation with practicality, and many are eager to see how it will compete in the evolving smartphone market.

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  • iPhone 17 Air Display Details Leaked in iOS 26 Code

    iPhone 17 Air Display Details Leaked in iOS 26 Code

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple often keeps product details secret, but leaks can occur through software code.
    2. The iPhone 17 Air has been linked to a new wallpaper resolution found in the iOS 26 beta.
    3. The leaked resolution suggests the iPhone 17 Air will have a 6.6-inch display.
    4. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a single-camera setup and an A19 SoC.
    5. There are concerns about achieving good battery life in the slim design of the iPhone 17 Air.


    Apple is well-known for keeping its upcoming product details under wraps. Even with the Cupertino giant’s best attempts, information tends to leak out occasionally, often through hidden code references in its software.

    Curious Internet Users

    Apple might think that no one would look closely enough to find clues about future products. However, the inquisitive internet folks have consistently shown otherwise. Recently, the iPhone 17 Air has become the subject of a leak that reveals information about its screen size.

    Hidden Discoveries

    In the iOS 26 beta, MacWorld found a wallpaper measuring 1260 x 2736. At first, this might not appear significant, but the situation becomes more intriguing when we consider that no iPhone currently available has that precise resolution. MacRumors highlighted that well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had mentioned earlier that the mysterious iPhone 17 Air will feature nearly the same resolution, give or take a few pixels.

    This suggests that the iPhone 17 Air will indeed have a 6.6-inch display, positioning it between the iPhone 17 and the 17 Plus/Pro Max models. This new smartphone is also anticipated to include a single-camera setup, A19 SoC, and a remarkably thin design measuring only 5.5 mm.

    Battery Life Concerns

    It remains uncertain if Apple can achieve a satisfactory battery life with such a sleek smartphone. Nonetheless, considering the benefits that Apple Silicon has offered in recent years, the challenge does seem manageable.

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