Tag: Apple

October 17, 2024
iPad Mini 7 Features A17 Pro Chipset in Downgraded Version
Apple has launched the highly awaited 7th generation iPad mini, which offers a notable performance boost compared to the last version. A key feature of the new iPad mini is its A17 Pro chipset, the same robust SoC that powers the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
A17 Pro: A Compromised Version in iPad mini 7
Looking deeper, it becomes clear that Apple has used a binned version of the A17 Pro, equipped with a 5-core GPU instead of the 6-core GPU available in the iPhone 15 Pro models. This indicates a clever strategy to utilize slightly less powerful chips for the iPad mini, which allows for cost-effective production.
The iPad mini 7 is designed with a 6-core CPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, matching the core setup of the A17 Pro found in last year’s Pro iPhones. This means users can anticipate similar processing power and AI functions, making it a strong option for multitasking, creative applications, and gaming. The main distinction is the 5-core GPU, which could minimally impact graphics performance, although most users probably won’t perceive this during regular use.
Enhanced RAM and AI Features
Alongside the A17 Pro chipset, the iPad mini 7 also sees an increase in RAM, going from 4GB in the former model to 8GB. This enhancement allows for more fluid multitasking and supports Apple’s new AI-driven features. For fans of the iPad, this represents the most budget-friendly way to explore Apple’s latest machine learning advancements with iOS 18.1.
The binned A17 Pro chipset shows Apple’s ongoing strategy of optimizing production expenses. Chip-binning involves employing components that fail to meet the highest performance criteria for flagship devices but are still usable for other products. In the case of the iPad mini 7, the combination of a 6-core CPU and a 5-core GPU likely comes from production runs that didn’t fulfill the rigorous demands of the iPhone 15 Pro series. Instead of discarding these chips, Apple finds a new use for them, letting the iPad mini benefit from A17 Pro performance at a reduced price.
Design and Availability
This isn’t the first time Apple has made use of chip-binning in its devices. The A15 Bionic in the iPad mini 6 operated at slightly lower clock speeds than its counterpart in the iPhone 13 Pro, and similar variations were observed with the M2 chip in the latest iPad Air models. While some may wish that the iPad mini 7 featured the A18 Pro chipset, this decision likely helps keep its starting price at an appealing $499.
Even with these internal enhancements, the iPad mini 7 retains the same stylish and portable design that loyal fans have come to love. Featuring an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, Touch ID, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro, the new model is ideal for anyone looking for a compact yet powerful device for both work and entertainment.
The iPad Mini 7 is now up for pre-order, with an official launch set for October 23. Be sure to check out our latest article to see if upgrading to the iPad Mini 7 is the right decision for you!
Tags: A17 Pro, Apple, iPad Mini 7
October 13, 2024
iPhone SE 4 Case Design Leak Shows iPhone 7 Plus Ahead of Launch
Apple is not likely to reveal a new iPhone SE anytime soon. Recent speculations suggest that the existing 3rd Generation model, currently priced at $151 for renewed units on Amazon, will continue to be available for the rest of this year and into 2025. However, snippets of information regarding the anticipated iPhone SE 4 keep appearing across different platforms online.
Rumors and Leaks
In a recent update, Sonny Dickson has shared an image of a case designed by a third party. This image, likely sourced from Chinese social media, does not depict the actual iPhone SE 4. Rather, it showcases some features of the upcoming device ahead of its official announcement. Notably, the image reveals a flat back panel along with a cut-out that seems to be intended for a mute switch instead of an Action Button, which has been a topic of discussion.
Camera Design Insights
Additionally, the case features a notably large opening for the rear cameras of the iPhone. As the iPhone SE 4 is anticipated to be similar in size to the iPhone 14, this cut-out appears to accommodate two rear-facing cameras, a shift from the single-camera setup seen in all prior iPhone SE generations. Furthermore, this camera opening is horizontally aligned, resembling the design of the iPhone 7 Plus, which contrasts with Apple’s recent design trends.
@SonnyDickson
Tags: Apple, iPhone SE 4, Sonny Dickson
October 8, 2024
Apple AirTag 2 Launching in H1 2025 with Upgraded Tracking Chip
According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple is planning to launch a new version of its AirTag in the first half of 2025. This will be the first significant update to the tracking device since it was launched in 2021.
New Technology for Better Tracking
Gurman suggests that this new version will be equipped with a more sophisticated chip, probably the second-generation ultra-wideband (UWB) chip, which was recently featured in the iPhone 15. This new technology is likely to improve how accurately the AirTag can track locations.
The original AirTag is powered by Apple’s U1 chip, which uses UWB technology along with Bluetooth to connect to Apple’s Find My network. This allows users to pinpoint their devices with high precision. Its stainless-steel design is both compact and lightweight, offering IP67 water and dust resistance for some protection against the elements.
Features to Assist Users
The AirTag includes a tiny built-in speaker, which makes it easier for users to locate their AirTag by playing a sound when activated via the Find My app. The back cover can be removed, allowing users to change the battery as needed.
With the Find My app, users can track the AirTag on a map. Furthermore, the app offers more detailed assistance, including sound, haptic feedback, and visual directions using ARKit, accelerometer, and gyroscope technology.
In situations where someone misplaces an AirTag, it can be set to Lost Mode, which alerts the user when it’s found or comes back into range. If someone else finds the AirTag, they can tap it using an NFC-enabled device, which will show the owner’s contact details if they have been provided.
Privacy Measures in Place
Apple has incorporated privacy features in the AirTag to stop unwanted tracking. For example, the Bluetooth signal identifiers used by the AirTag change frequently to prevent tracking by unauthorized users, and communications within the Find My network are encrypted from end to end.
The new AirTag is also rumored to work with Apple’s Vision Pro headset, although specific details about this feature are still unclear. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo noted last year that the production of AirTag had been postponed until 2025, but both he and Gurman expect a launch next year. So far, there are no signs of any changes in the design.
Tags: AirTag, Apple
October 8, 2024
iPhone 17 Pro Colors: Leaker Reveals Three Vibrant Options
The Apple iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro have been on the market for just a few weeks, but chatter about the next iPhones is already spreading. Reports suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro might come in a green tone, with an expected reveal set for September 2025. Leaker Majin Bu has shared insights into this potential model.
Color Options Being Considered
Currently, three color options are making the rounds: Teal Titanium, Green Titanium, and Dark Green Titanium. The images below hint at what these hues could look like. If these rumors hold true, Apple might shift back to more vibrant colors next year, moving away from the standard iPhone 16 Pro shades of gray, white, black, and gold. However, it’s important to stay cautious with such early speculations about upcoming smartphones.
Performance Improvements Ahead
Earlier leaks indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will focus on enhanced AI capabilities compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. With an anticipated upgrade to 12 GB of RAM, improved vapor chamber cooling, a graphite heat sink, and a new Apple A19 Pro ARM processor, the next flagship might provide a significant performance boost. In contrast, the standard iPhone 17 Pro is likely to maintain 8 GB of RAM. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple aims to create clearer distinctions between the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Pro Max to encourage more buyers to opt for the pricier and larger option.
Majin Bu’s insights have sparked excitement, yet it’s vital to remember that these are just predictions at this stage. As the launch date approaches, more concrete details will likely emerge, refining our understanding of what to expect from Apple’s next generation of smartphones.
Tags: Apple, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max
October 8, 2024
M4 MacBook Pro Leaked Again to YouTuber, No Fake Flags This Time
Apple’s product leaks before launches are not new. Yet, seeing retail versions of the M4 MacBook Pro in the hands of two Russian YouTubers nearly a month ahead of schedule is quite shocking. If Apple has a leak issue, this isn’t just a minor concern; it’s a serious supply chain disaster waiting to happen.
Leaked Details
Earlier today, we reported on a YouTube video from a well-known Russian creator who unboxed what they claimed to be the M4 MacBook Pro and tested it using Geekbench. The performance numbers are impressive, but honestly, this isn’t surprising since the chip was showcased in the OLED iPad Pro about four months back.

Suspicious Circumstances
The unboxing video raised some eyebrows, though. For starters, the packaging featured the same old wallpaper from the M3 era, and the MacBook’s system details were cleverly obscured. There was also an additional Thunderbolt port, which was only available on the M3 Pro and M3 Max models. Just a few hours later, another YouTuber named romancev768 also displayed an ‘M4 MacBook Pro’ and made sure to reveal the ‘About the Mac’ screen on his 14-inch model, clearly showing the M4 SoC alongside 16 GB of memory.
The Big Question
This leads us to a puzzling question—how are retail versions of these yet-to-be-released MacBook Pro models finding their way to Russian YouTubers almost a month before the official release? The answer eludes me, and maybe it’s better to leave it unanswered. Nevertheless, Apple appears to be facing a significant supply chain issue that could cause quite a stir among its executives. Is this reminiscent of the iPhone 4 situation? It’s tough to determine.
Romancev768V via YouTube.
Tags: Apple, M4 MacBook Pro, YouTube
October 6, 2024
iPad Mini 7: Will Apple’s Smallest Tablet Receive Major Upgrades?
The iPad Mini has established a special spot in Apple’s product range, providing a small yet effective experience for those who enjoy smaller tablets. Since its significant redesign in 2021, the iPad Mini has not seen many changes, but as nearly three years have passed, excitement is building for the upcoming version: the iPad Mini 7.
Upcoming Release
Recent rumors, analyst insights, and market patterns suggest that Apple may unveil the 7th generation iPad Mini by the close of 2024. Here’s what we’ve gathered about this powerful little tablet that’s on the horizon.
Design Features
If you were expecting a complete redesign, you might find yourself a bit let down. Most experts in the field think that the iPad Mini 7 will keep the same look as the previous model, the iPad Mini 6. This indicates that we can anticipate the same 8.3-inch screen, slim bezels, and the Touch ID feature integrated into the power button, along with the use of a USB-C port rather than the older Lightning port.
Apple gave the iPad Mini a significant update in 2021, and it’s probable that they will stick with the current design for a few more years, especially since it was received so well by users.
Potential Color Options
Nevertheless, the iPad Mini 7 might come with some new color choices. Recent Apple devices, like the iPhone 16 and iPad Air M2, have adopted more vibrant and darker color patterns, so it’s reasonable to think that Apple could apply this direction to the iPad Mini 7. This might lead to new shades that refresh the tablet’s appearance without altering its physical size.
Tags: Apple, iPad Mini 7, tablet design
October 3, 2024
MacBook Pro M4, M4 Pro, M4 Max Launch Date Uncertain for October
Apple’s M4 SoC has been met with a huge positive reaction from both fans and critics. Since its launch, many Mac enthusiasts have been anticipating the arrival of this powerful chip in the Mac lineup. New reports suggest that this is going to happen very soon, with multiple Mac models, such as the MacBook Pro, expected to be updated with the M4 chip later this year.
M4 Lineup Release Dates
According to information shared by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg in his PowerOn newsletter, the M4 series, which includes the new M4 Pro and M4 Max SoCs, is set to be introduced in the upcoming MacBook Pros as early as this month. Nevertheless, his latest prediction is a little unclear, mentioning that the new M4 Macs are expected to come out "later this year." It’s still uncertain if this implies a delay from the anticipated October release.
Exciting New Products
Besides the M4-supported MacBook Pros, Apple is also planning to launch a completely redesigned Mac Mini, which will have a smaller size due to the efficiency of the M4 SoC. The 24-inch iMac is also getting an upgrade to the M4 SoC, but there is still uncertainty regarding the potential for a larger 27- or 32-inch version equipped with higher-performance chips.
Waiting for More
For those anxiously waiting for an M4 MacBook Air, Mac Studio, or the Mac Pro, it looks like there will be some more time to wait. Gurman anticipates a Spring launch for the M4 MacBook Air, while the introductions for the Mac Studio and Mac Pro are likely to happen next year, probably during WWDC 25.
Mark Gurman via Bloomberg.
Tags: Apple, M4 SoC, MacBook Pro
October 2, 2024
iPhone 17 Pro Features New Button Design for Enhanced Usability
Apple has rolled out a Capture Button across all models of the iPhone 16 series, enhancing camera accessibility. This change is significant, as Apple typically reserves new features for its Pro versions for a period before they appear in the standard and Plus models. Recently, a rumor has emerged indicating that Apple is planning another button redesign for the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models.
A New Button Design
According to information from tipster Majin Bu, Apple intends to replace both the volume buttons and the Action button with a single new button that can serve both functions. The Capture Button introduced this year includes a sensitivity feature, allowing for various controls depending on how it’s interacted with.
However, specific details about the new button’s capabilities are limited. Majin Bu speculates that it will act as a control for volume, ringtone, and other functions that users can currently customize with the Capture Button. While it’s possible that Apple could change its plans before the expected release in September 2025, the company has previously tested similar prototypes aimed at consolidating the volume controls. Whether the iPhone 17 lineup will incorporate these new features remains uncertain.
Additional Features in the iPhone 17 Series
In addition to the button changes, the iPhone 17 series is expected to include a ‘Slim’ model, which may help narrow the performance gap between the non-Pro and Pro versions. The new series could also utilize a 2nm chip if TSMC successfully brings its 2nm production line online in time. The 2nm process is projected to deliver significant enhancements in performance and power efficiency, allowing Apple to integrate more AI capabilities that operate natively.
Furthermore, a previous rumor suggests that the non-Pro models might finally support ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate, potentially ending the standard 60Hz refresh rate that has been typical for iPhones.
Tags: Apple, iPhone 16, iPhone 17 Pro
October 1, 2024
Apple to Launch Two Smart Home Displays, Cheaper Model in 2025
According to a recent report from Bloomberg, Apple is in the process of creating two smart home displays. The first device, identified by the model number "J595", is a higher-end option expected to be priced above $1,000. This model features a display similar to that of an Apple iPad Pro mounted on a motorized robotic arm, allowing it to automatically orient towards the user.
Upcoming Budget-Friendly Device
The second device, which has the codename "J490", is anticipated to hit the market early next year. Previous reports suggest that this model will be powered by the Apple A18 ARM chip, also seen in the Apple iPhone 16, and will feature an almost square touchscreen. Both smart home displays are said to run on homeOS, a system Apple is developing based on tvOS. This software is expected to include AI capabilities, marketed under the familiar "Apple Intelligence" brand.
Features and Functionality
The more affordable device will support applications like Calendar, Notes, and Apple Home, with a user interface designed for easy management of smart home devices and clear presentation of relevant information. Additionally, rumors indicate that the smart home display will enable video calls through FaceTime and will have the ability to play videos and music, which can be streamed wirelessly from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac using Apple AirPlay. Bloomberg also mentioned that Apple is currently evaluating a design that would allow the display to be magnetically affixed to a wall.
Tags: Apple
October 1, 2024
iPhone 16 Pro Max Charging Performance Disappoints in Real Test
Apple has introduced the iPhone 16 series, featuring bigger batteries and quicker charging options. Although Apple did not disclose the precise battery size or charging speed for the new iPhones, a regulatory filing from China indicated that all iPhone 16 models support charging speeds of up to 45W. This should, in theory, result in significantly faster charging compared to previous models.
Testing Charging Speeds
Despite this potential for speed, it turns out that the actual performance may not meet expectations. ChargerLAB conducted extensive tests to see how quickly the new iPhones can charge. The findings were rather disappointing.
ChargerLAB noted that the iPhone 16 lacks an E-marker chip, which is essential in USB Type-C cables for managing power delivery and data communication. This chip is typically found in USB-PD chargers that can provide higher current output and faster data transfer rates.
Results with Apple Chargers
In tests with Apple’s official 140W charger and the included cable, the iPhone 16 Pro Max charged at only 30.19W, well below the claimed 45W charging speed. ChargerLAB’s recorded speeds with other Apple chargers can be seen in the accompanying image. Thus, it appears that the charging speed for the iPhone 16 Pro Max is capped around 30W, which is just a slight increase from the 27W charging speed of the iPhone 15 Pro Max. While this is an enhancement, the advertised 45W charging speed may mislead those looking to upgrade to the latest models.
ChargerLAB also tested third-party chargers, achieving a maximum charging speed of 31.86W, quite similar to the results with official Apple chargers.
Conclusion
In summary, the charging speed for the iPhone 16 Pro Max seems to be limited to around 30W, providing only a minor improvement over the previous iPhone 15 Pro Max’s 27W rating. Even though there is some progress, the claimed 45W charging speed can create false expectations for potential buyers considering an upgrade to the newest models.
Tags: Apple, charging speed, iPhone 16 Pro Max