Tag: Apple

February 6, 2024
OpenAI’s ChatGPT app integrated with Apple Vision Pro
OpenAI has introduced its ChatGPT app for the new Apple Vision Pro headset, featuring the GPT-4 Turbo model. This allows users to engage with AI through the headset in a highly immersive augmented reality (AR) setting.
ChatGPT App is Now Available on VisionOS
The ChatGPT app on Vision Pro enables users to communicate with the AI in various formats, including text, voice, and visual inputs. It’s one of the first applications to utilize visionOS, Apple’s operating system for the Vision Pro, designed for seamless integration of digital content with the real world.
The Apple Vision Pro includes advanced features such as Optic ID for biometric authentication through eye tracking and iris recognition, Spatial Audio for lifelike sound experiences, and VisionKit for app development. Although it’s not specified which features the ChatGPT app will use, there’s significant potential for enhanced AI interactions using text, speech, and visual inputs.
Integrating ChatGPT with Vision Pro
Integrating ChatGPT with Vision Pro marks a step towards more natural and intuitive interactions between humans and AI. Users can address complex issues or generate content by speaking instructions or showing problems to the AI via the headset’s camera. This integration could transform various tasks, from troubleshooting mechanical problems to meal planning and educational activities, through direct visual input.
Making ChatGPT available on Vision Pro is part of OpenAI’s strategy to extend its generative AI technologies across multiple platforms. ChatGPT was previously made available on iPhone and iPad, broadening user access.
The ChatGPT app is available for free on the visionOS App Store, with an optional subscription for advanced features and quicker responses. The store also offers over 600 other apps designed for a range of purposes, ensuring a rich ecosystem for Vision Pro users.
Tags: Apple, Apple’s Vision Pro, OpenAI
February 5, 2024
Apple Surpassed by Huawei as China’s Top-selling Smartphone Brand in Early 2024
Huawei experienced an exciting growth in the Chinese smartphone market in 2023. Recently IDC report revealed that Huawei’s shipments increased by 36.2% in Q4, 2023 making it the fourth-largest smartphone brand in China.
Huawei Tops Smartphone Sales in China in 2024
A new report by Counterpoint Research now reveals that Huawei has clinched the top spot in smartphone sales during the first two weeks of 2024.
The achievement is particularly noteworthy, not just because it has surpassed Apple, but also because it’s the first time since the 2019 US ban that Huawei has secured the leading position in terms of smartphone sales in China.
Mate 60 Series Key to Huawei’s Success
As expected, the Mate 60 series is the key to Huawei’s recent success in the Chinese market. Launched last year, the smartphones feature a Kirin 9000S processor and Harmony OS operating system. Mate 60 series is still said to be in high demand in the mainland, according to local distributors.
Huawei’s Ambitious Plans for Harmony OS NEXT
Looking ahead, the company has ambitious plans to launch Harmony OS NEXT; an operating system with Huawei’s own kernel which will phase out Android app support completely. Expected to launch by the end of 2024, its success will have a significant impact on Huawei’s smartphone business.
Nova 12 Series Boosts Sales
Except for the Mate 60, the Nova 12 series launched back in December has also helped Huawei to increase its sales numbers. These are all mid-range smartphones powered by Kirin processors, except for the Nova 12 Lite which has a Snapdragon 778G 4G chip inside.
Chinese Brands Chipping Away at Apple’s Market Share
According to a Counterpoint report, the high-end smartphone market in China saw a growth of 27% in 2023. While Apple continues to hold the top position, Huawei and other Chinese brands have been gradually chipping away at Apple’s market share since the third quarter of 2023.
Tags: Apple, Huawei
February 4, 2024
Kernel vulnerability causes crash in Apple Vision Pro after being hacked
A day after the release of Apple’s latest product, the Apple Vision Pro, a security concern has emerged. Joseph Ravichandran, a PhD student from MIT with expertise in microarchitecture security, claims to have identified a critical kernel vulnerability in the device’s operating system, visionOS. This vulnerability could potentially enable jailbreaking and the development of harmful software designed to exploit this new hardware.
Kernel Vulnerability Found in Apple Vision Pro
Joseph Ravichandran shared his findings on Twitter, posting a series of tweets that included photos showing the Apple Vision Pro’s reaction to a kernel exploit. After the exploit, the device goes into a “perspective mode” and instructs the user to remove the headset in preparation for a restart, which is scheduled to occur within 30 seconds.
Following this restart, Ravichandran highlighted an emergency log indicating a kernel crash. Further, he showcased a custom application named Vision Pro Crasher, featuring a skull adorned with a headset icon and a button labeled Crash My Vision Pro.
Potential Security Concerns
This news isn’t entirely surprising. New hardware releases often attract security researchers eager to test its defenses. Similar to attempts to jailbreak iPhones, Ravichandran’s exploit highlights potential security concerns for the Vision Pro ecosystem.
However, there’s reason to remain optimistic. Apple has a proven track record of swiftly addressing security issues, especially in high-profile products like the Vision Pro. Additionally, Ravichandran hasn’t confirmed submitting his findings to Apple, though the company’s security bounty program could incentivize such disclosure.
Even if the exploit remains public, its immediate impact might be limited. The Vision Pro’s gradual rollout targets tech-savvy early adopters, making widespread exploitation less likely. Moreover, Apple will likely prioritize fixing the vulnerability in a swift update, further mitigating any potential risks.
Apple Vision Pro Launch and Pricing
Apple Vision Pro launched in the US earlier this week, representing a significant milestone as Apple’s first major new product category since the Apple Watch in 2015. Pre-orders became available on January 19. While there hasn’t been an official announcement about its launch in China, Tim Cook has indicated that it will happen very soon. In terms of pricing, the Apple Vision Pro starts at $3,499 in the United States.
Apple Vision Pro Images:
Tags: Apple, Apple Vision Pro, kernel vulnerability
February 4, 2024
Record-breaking iPhone revenue achieved by Apple in the US and India
Apple has emerged as the leader in phone shipments, surpassing Samsung for the first time in history. This is a significant shift in the iPhone sales landscape. Samsung has long been the top phone shipper, thanks to its extensive experience in the smartphone market and its ability to manufacture phones across various budget ranges. On the other hand, Apple has consistently used high-quality materials and has not compromised on offering the latest processor technology, even in its budget-friendly “iPhone SE” series. This approach has resonated well with smartphone owners.
Apple’s Success in the US and India
Despite a 4% decline in global annual phone sales, Apple’s rise to the top has been uninterrupted. The company has now claimed the number one spot for smartphones sold in a year. According to Jeff Fieldhack, the research director at Counterpoint, “Apple displaced Samsung as the biggest player in shipments for the first time in a full year. While the US made the biggest volume contribution to Apple’s growth, it also received a major boost through double-digit growth in emerging markets including India, Caribbean and Latin America (CALA), and Middle East and Africa (MEA). This growth offset any challenges Apple may have faced in China due to the resurgence of Huawei. With an accompanying ASP growth of 2%, it can be seen to be in a revenue super cycle, buoyed by its ecosystem stickiness coupled with the premiumization trend, crossing an annual revenue of $200 billion.”
Apple’s Dominance and Challenges
Apple’s strong market share in phone sales is primarily driven by its success in the US and India. However, the company faces challenges in China, where Huawei has made a remarkable comeback. Apple’s position in China remains weak, and it may face tough competition from other Chinese OEMs.
The surge in Apple’s sales could be attributed to the increasing desire among users to own premium devices over time. Statistics also confirm a decline in both the shipments and sales rates of Samsung’s low-end devices. Apple’s annual revenue reached $203 billion in 2023, setting a new record.
Tags: Apple, iPhone revenue
February 3, 2024
Vision Pro Gets Developer Strap (USB-C Dongle) from Apple
Apple Vision Pro is now officially available for purchase with a collection of nearly 600 apps designed specifically for the headset. Although this number may seem substantial, it falls short compared to the extensive app stores of the iPhone and iPad.
Apple Introduces “Developer Strap” for Vision Pro
In an effort to support developers, Apple has introduced a “Developer Strap” for the Vision Pro, priced at $300. It essentially functions as a USB-C dongle allowing developers to make a direct connection between the headset and a Mac.
The strap is exclusively available through the Apple Developer website and is targeted at developers who can use this USB-C dongle to “accelerate the development of graphics-intensive apps and games.”
This likely means compiling and debugging apps directly on the device, bypassing the need for a wireless connection. However, Apple hasn’t confirmed if file transfer is also possible (via 9to5Mac).
Developer Strap Benefits for Vision Pro Projects
While development options are available for other Apple devices like Apple TV and Watch, transferring VisionOS apps with 3D features can be cumbersome over Wi-Fi. Hence, the Developer Strap can be particularly valuable for developers working on Vision Pro projects involving these advanced features.
However, it’s important to note that Apple is strictly positioning this accessory for developers and not for consumers. Thus, it’s not available through the regular Apple Store. Instead, it can only be ordered via the Apple Developer site and currently by only US-based developer account holders.
Interestingly, the Developer Strap includes a built-in speaker, as developers need to replace the right audio strap that comes with Vision Pro.
Vision Pro Demos Now Available in Apple Stores
Separately, Apple Stores in the US are now providing 25-minute Vision Pro demos, showing the device’s capabilities, available content and apps, and more. The headset might launch in additional countries later this year.
Tags: Apple, Apple Vision Pro, Developer Strap, USB-C Dongle
February 2, 2024
Tim Cook Confirms Apple Products to Include AI Features
Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, has unveiled plans for incorporating generative AI capabilities into the company’s products in the upcoming year.
Apple’s Emphasis on Generative AI Advancements
The focus of Apple on generative AI corresponds with recent insights from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, hinting that the forthcoming iOS 18 update might be a groundbreaking milestone in the history of the operating system. This underscores Apple’s keen resolve to keep pace with tech giants like Google and Samsung, who have already harnessed AI to introduce cutting-edge features to their consumers.
Integration of AI within Apple’s Product Line
Speculations abound regarding Apple’s intentions to introduce an enhanced iteration of Siri, potentially labeled as "Siri 2.0," equipped with generative AI functionalities. This upgrade could significantly enhance Siri’s capacity to comprehend and interact with user inquiries. Moreover, there are anticipations about Apple integrating AI into Apple Music for refined playlist suggestions and into Messages for intelligent responses. The incorporation of AI into Apple’s suite of software platforms, encompassing iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, is also on the horizon.
Potential Unveiling at WWDC
While Tim Cook did not explicitly cite the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), hinting at a timeframe of "later this year" implies the prospect of a revelation at Apple’s annual developer convention in June. Should they not be initially included, these AI functionalities could be introduced through subsequent software updates.
On the whole, Apple’s steadfast commitment to advancing generative AI features underscores its unwavering dedication to leading the charge in technological progress. Consumers can anticipate reaping the rewards of AI advancements across a spectrum of Apple products in the foreseeable future.
Tags: AI model, Apple, Tim Cook
January 31, 2024
AirPods Max Receive Latest Firmware Update from Apple, Delivering Bug Fixes and Enhanced Features
Apple has released a new firmware update, version 6A324, for its AirPods Max headphones. This update follows the previous firmware version 6A300, which was launched in September last year. While Apple has not provided detailed information about the new features included in the update, it has mentioned that it includes "bug fixes and other improvements."
Bug Fixes and Enhancements
Although the specific bug fixes and enhancements have not been disclosed, users can expect an optimized audio experience and potentially improved connectivity and functionality. The update process usually occurs seamlessly when the device is powered on and connected to an iOS device or Mac. This ensures that users can effortlessly enjoy the benefits of the latest enhancements.
Comprehensively Reimagined Headset
The AirPods Max is marketed by Apple as a comprehensively reimagined headset. It features intricate designs that prioritize user comfort and sound isolation. From the ear pads to the headband, the device is crafted with precision to cater to various head shapes. Additionally, the AirPods Max is available in five colors: space gray, pink, green, silver, and sky blue. Users also have the option to personalize their devices through engraving.
Pricing and Availability
The current price of the AirPods Max on Apple's official website is 3,999 yuan (~$564). This premium price tag reflects the high-quality design and advanced features of the headphones.
Checking Firmware Version
If you're curious about the firmware version installed on your AirPods Max, you can easily check it. Simply connect the AirPods Max to an iOS device and navigate to the Settings app. From there, follow the steps to check the firmware version under the "About" section.
Overall, the new firmware update for the AirPods Max brings bug fixes and improvements to enhance the user experience. Apple continues to prioritize innovation and customer satisfaction with its ongoing updates and releases in the wireless audio market.
Tags: AirPods Max, Apple, firmware update
January 31, 2024
Don’t Expect a Design Change with the iPhone 16 from Apple
The Only Design Change in iPhone 16 Will Be the Capture Button
Apple revealed the iPhone 15 series just a few months ago in September, but as usual, focus swiftly turned to the next model, the iPhone 16. Leaks about this upcoming smartphone are already surfacing, like the recent discussion about the Geekbench 6 Score of the A18 Pro, set to be featured in the iPhone 16. However, not all the news is good. According to Kuo, the iPhone 16 might lack significant design changes, except for the capture button. Here are the details.
Monitoring Apple closely, supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo often predicts the company’s future moves. Known for accurate forecasts, Kuo shares both good and bad news. Unfortunately, his recent analysis falls into the second category, indicating that the iPhone 16 series won’t showcase any “significant design changes.”
“It is expected that Apple will not launch new iPhone models with significant design changes and the more comprehensive/differentiated GenAI ecosystem/applications until 2025 at the earliest,” wrote Kuo in a blog post today.
Apple is known for sticking to a consistent design, which has led to accusations of selling similar phones repeatedly. This year, the introduction of Dynamic Island on iPhone 15 and iPhone Plus diverted attention from such criticisms. However, if Kuo’s claims are correct, the company might face criticism again, as the only significant change seems to be the addition of a “capture” button.
The upcoming button is set to bring a noteworthy innovation to the iPhone. As you’re likely aware, the company recently unveiled an action button that enables users to assign tasks to the mute button. Now, the capture button is poised to become a significant enhancement for photo and video enthusiasts.
According to reports, users will be able to zoom in and out in the Camera app by swiping left and right on the button, focus with a light press, and start video recording with a more forceful press. It’s important to note that this information has not been officially confirmed.
Tags: Apple, Design Changes, iPhone 16
January 30, 2024
A18 Pro: Apple’s Upcoming Improvement in Single-Core Performance
Apple A18 Pro Outperforms A17 Pro in Geekbench 6 Score
Apple's upcoming A18 Pro chip has been making headlines recently, as some leaked Geekbench 6 scores reveal its impressive performance. Compared to its predecessor, the A17 Pro, the A18 Pro shows significant improvements in single-core performance.
Apple A18 Pro Geekbench 6 Score
According to rumors, Apple plans to use the A18 system-on-a-chip (SOC) in all models of the highly anticipated iPhone 16 series. This is exciting news for potential buyers, especially those who were disappointed with the lack of processor upgrades in the iPhone 15 and 14 models. Both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 Pro Max were equipped with the A16 Bionic SOC, which is the same as the previous generation.
Now, with the emergence of the A18 Pro's Geekbench 6 score, we get a glimpse of what the next generation of iPhones will offer in terms of performance.
Improved Single-Core Performance
The Geekbench 6 results for the Apple A18 Pro are quite impressive. It scored 3500 on the single-core test and 8200 on the multi-core test. In comparison, the A17 Pro only managed to score 2906 on the single-core test and 7231 on the multi-core test. These numbers indicate a significant boost in single-core performance for the A18 Pro.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 vs. Apple A18 Pro
Interestingly, a leaked Geekbench 6 result for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip has also surfaced recently. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 scored 2985 on the single-core test and 10762 on the multi-core test, showcasing impressive multi-core performance. This puts it in close competition with Apple's M3 chip.
Devices equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 are expected to hit the market in the fourth quarter of this year. The comparison between the highly anticipated Apple A18 Pro and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be particularly interesting, as it will determine which chip will dominate in 2025.
In conclusion, the leaked Geekbench 6 scores for the Apple A18 Pro chip reveal its improved single-core performance compared to its predecessor, the A17 Pro. With Apple rumored to incorporate the A18 Pro in the iPhone 16 series, users can look forward to a significant boost in overall performance. However, the competition from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip will undoubtedly make the battle for chip dominance in 2025 an exciting one to watch.
Tags: A18 Pro, Apple, single-core performance
January 30, 2024
Supply Challenges May Hinder Apple’s Ability to Meet Demand for 200,000 Vision Pro Preorders
Apple’s Vision Pro Receives Substantial Preorders, Delivery Delayed Until March
Apple’s highly anticipated Vision Pro has reportedly received a significant number of preorders, with an inside source estimating sales “upwards of 200,000” units. This claim is supported by MacRumors, known for its accurate insights into Apple’s upcoming products. Ming-Chi Kuo, a reputable analyst, had previously projected preorders to be between 160,000 and 180,000 based on his extensive study of Apple’s supply chain.
Limited Production Causes Delivery Delays
Despite the strong demand, Apple is facing a challenge in meeting it promptly. Within just one hour of preorders opening on January 19, delivery estimates were already pushed to March for certain storage tiers in specific U.S. states. Currently, March seems to be the estimate across all storage options and states, indicating a potential supply-demand mismatch.
Limited Production Capacity and Alternative Suppliers
The situation is further complicated by the limited production capacity of key components. Apple sources the near-4K OLED microdisplays for the Vision Pro from Sony, a supplier capable of producing a maximum of one million units annually, as reported by The Information, The Elec, and The Financial Times. Since each headset requires two of these microdisplays, the production of Vision Pro might be capped at less than half a million units for the entire year.
To address this limitation, Apple is reportedly exploring alternative suppliers for OLED microdisplays for future iterations of the Vision headset, as disclosed by The Financial Times. This strategic move could enhance production capacity and potentially reduce costs. However, for the initial release of the Apple Vision Pro, supply constraints are expected to persist.
Extended Backlogs and Patience Required
The high demand and constrained supply suggest that the Vision Pro could face extended backlogs, possibly lasting for months. Apple enthusiasts who are eager to experience the latest VR/AR technology may need to exercise patience, especially considering the challenges in securing key components.
Apple’s Ability to Overcome Challenges
As the February 2 launch date approaches, the success of Vision Pro in the market will likely be measured not just by its preorders but also by Apple’s ability to manage and improve its supply chain to meet sustained demand. The coming months will reveal whether Apple can overcome these challenges and deliver the Vision Pro to consumers in a timely fashion.
Tags: Apple, Apple Vision Pro