Tag: Apple

  • iFold: Analyst Predicts Folding iPhone and iPad Mass Production in 2026

    iFold: Analyst Predicts Folding iPhone and iPad Mass Production in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple plans to start mass production of a foldable iPhone and iPad by late 2026, with potential launch in 2027.
    2. Prototyping for these devices is expected to begin in April 2025.
    3. Current rumors should be taken with caution, as they are not confirmed.
    4. Future iPhone shipments in 2025 are expected to be “lukewarm” due to issues with Apple’s Siri features.
    5. The foldable iPhone may feature an 8-inch display, while the foldable iPad could have a 19-inch screen when unfolded.

    With the rise of folding phones, it seems like Apple is ready to join the trend. This change might be happening quicker than we expect, and it could involve more than just the iPhone.

    Production Plans Revealed

    Research analyst Jeff Pu has indicated that Apple is set to start mass production of a foldable iPhone and a foldable iPad in late 2026. He also mentions that prototyping for these new devices will commence as early as next month, in April 2025. If production starts in 2026, we could see these products launched in 2027, likely in September, which is when Apple typically announces its new iPhones.

    Take Rumors With Caution

    Pu hasn’t shared any additional information at this moment. Remember, this is just a rumor, so it’s wise to approach it with some skepticism. Nonetheless, Pu accurately forecasted the launch of the iPhone SE 4, now referred to as the iPhone 16e, which features Apple’s first home-made cellular modem.

    Future iPhone Shipments

    Alongside his prediction regarding the foldable iPhone, Pu has stated that shipments of iPhones for the remainder of 2025 will be “lukewarm.” He suggests that this is mainly due to Apple Intelligence’s somewhat troubled rollout, particularly with Siri features that have faced multiple delays.

    Over the past year, speculation about Apple’s potential folding iPhone has intensified. The device, possibly called the iFold or iPhone Fold, is rumored to feature an 8-inch foldable internal display, which would make it comparable in size to an iPad Mini when fully opened. While the rumors surrounding a foldable iPad aren’t as vibrant, they do exist; the device is anticipated to have a 19-inch internal screen when it is unfolded.

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  • Apple’s iPhone 17 Air: Original Plan for a Portless Design

    Apple’s iPhone 17 Air: Original Plan for a Portless Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be one of Apple’s slimmest smartphones, with a thickness of 5.5mm.
    2. Apple considered eliminating the USB-C port but retained it due to EU regulations.
    3. Key features include a 6.6-inch display with Dynamic Island and a Camera Control button.
    4. The design hints at a possible future transition to fully wireless devices without charging ports.
    5. High-density Si/C batteries and a titanium frame are part of the design to ensure both sleekness and structural integrity.

    Apple’s next iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to be among the slimmest smartphones ever and will set a new record for the thinnest device in Apple’s lineup, as noted by analyst Mark Gurman.

    A Portless Future Almost Realized

    In his “Power On” newsletter for Bloomberg, Gurman shared that Apple leaders had considered eliminating the USB-C port completely. However, they had to abandon this idea to adhere to EU regulations, which were instrumental in pushing Apple toward adopting the USB-C port.

    Key Features of the iPhone 17 Air

    The iPhone 17 Air is said to come with a 6.6-inch display featuring Dynamic Island, a Camera Control button, and battery life similar to existing iPhones. Gurman, however, hints that this new model could “foreshadow a move to slimmer models without charging ports,” indicating a possible transition to a fully wireless approach for Apple’s mobile devices. It remains to be seen if Android manufacturers will take notice of this potential shift.

    The expected thickness of the iPhone 17 Air is 5.5mm, which still provides space for the USB-C port. For comparison, the newly released Oppo Find N5 is only 4.2 mm thick and still includes a USB-C port. It’s also highly unlikely that this design will compromise structural integrity since the port is located on the bottom of the device rather than the sides, where it could create a bending weak point.

    Some fans may feel let down by the decision to keep the USB-C port, as they were hoping for a more daring design. Regardless, it’s clear that Apple has already started the trend of making thinner phones. With the introduction of high-density Si/C batteries and titanium in the frame, creating a practical yet sleek smartphone seems more achievable than ever.

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  • Apple AirPods Pro: New Features Revealed Early

    Apple AirPods Pro: New Features Revealed Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is enhancing its products with more AI capabilities, focusing on iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
    2. iOS 19 will introduce additional AI functionalities, set to launch this autumn for compatible iPhones.
    3. AI features will also extend to AirPods Pro 2, likely in conjunction with iPadOS 19 and macOS 16.
    4. AirPods Pro will support live translation, allowing users to hear spoken language translated into their preferred language.
    5. Apple aims to compete with Google’s Pixel Buds by adding this translation feature to AirPods Pro.

    A recent report by Mark Gurman has revealed new insights into Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance its products with additional AI capabilities. The company has recently concentrated on improving its iPhone, iPad, and Mac lines, introducing features like Image Playground and Genmoji under the umbrella of Apple Intelligence.

    AI Integration in Future Updates

    Gurman indicates that Apple intends to incorporate even more AI functionalities into iOS 19, which is anticipated to be released this autumn for all iPhones that have been launched in the past five to six years. The expansion of AI features is also expected to extend to the AirPods Pro 2 (curr. $169.99 on Amazon), likely when used with an iPad updating to iPadOS 19 or a Mac running macOS 16.

    New Features for AirPods Pro

    Specifically, Gurman mentions that the AirPods Pro will receive support for live translation. This means users will be able to listen to any spoken language translated into their preferred language, similar to the Babel fish from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Essentially, Apple aims to equip the AirPods Pro to compete with Google’s Pixel Buds series, which already provide comparable features. However, it’s uncertain if this capability will be linked to certain models of AirPods, particularly the pricier versions.

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  • Red Dead Redemption 2 on macOS: CrossOver 25 New Features

    Red Dead Redemption 2 on macOS: CrossOver 25 New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit helps developers move Windows games to macOS, but many AAA titles remain exclusive to Windows.
    2. Wine is a free program that allows Mac users to run Windows applications and games.
    3. CrossOver, built on Wine, offers a user-friendly interface and serves as a launcher for Windows games without needing technical skills.
    4. CrossOver 25 includes over 5,000 enhancements, improved launch speed for Steam, and support for Epic Games Store and GOG Galaxy.
    5. CrossOver 25 supports popular games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and costs $74 for a year of updates or $494 for lifetime updates.

    Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit provides a fairly easy method for developers to transition Windows games to macOS. Yet, many AAA games are still exclusive to Microsoft’s operating system. On the other hand, Wine is a free and open-source program that enables Mac users to run Windows applications and games on their Apple devices.

    The New CrossOver Software

    CrossOver is a newer application built on Wine. Though it’s not free, it claims to offer a much more user-friendly interface along with several handy features. For instance, CrossOver can act as a launcher for Windows games, eliminating the need for any technical expertise. With just one click, users can dive into their game library and play thousands of Windows titles. There’s also a compatibility database that currently lists over 20,800 officially supported games and applications.

    Latest Updates in CrossOver 25

    The most recent version, CrossOver 25, reportedly brings over 5,000 total enhancements. Notably, the Windows version of Steam now launches much quicker, and both the Epic Games Store and GOG Galaxy are now officially supported. CrossOver 25 also automatically chooses the best settings for various games. It has added support for popular titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, Dragon’s Dogma 2, The Last of Us Part I, and Age of Wonders 4, which can now run on Macs with ARM chipsets.

    CrossOver 25 is currently accessible on CodeWeavers’ official site. The license for this version is priced at $74, which includes a full year of updates. Alternatively, Mac gamers who wish to receive lifetime updates can purchase CrossOver Life for $494.

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    Red Dead Redemption 2 on macOS: CrossOver 25 New Features

     

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  • Apple iPad Pro Fold: Early Leaks on 18.8-Inch Foldable Tablet

    Apple iPad Pro Fold: Early Leaks on 18.8-Inch Foldable Tablet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is exploring the release of its first foldable devices, including a potential foldable iPhone and an iPad Pro Fold.
    2. The rumored iPad Pro Fold may feature an 18.8-inch display, though the actual size could vary.
    3. Innovative features for the iPad Pro Fold may include a metal metalens and under-display 3D facial recognition.
    4. The foldable iPhone is expected to launch in 2026, while the iPad Pro Fold could be released no earlier than 2028.
    5. The iPad Pro Fold is likely to incorporate Capsule OLED Encapsulation technology.

    Apple has been in the talks about releasing its first foldable devices, nearly ten years after Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip. While many anticipate that Apple’s first foldable will be an iPhone, there are also reports that suggest the company is developing a foldable tablet.

    Rumored Foldable iPad Pro

    According to Digital Chat Station, this other foldable device is likely to be called the iPad Pro Fold, featuring a massive 18.8-inch display. It’s worth mentioning that the actual product might come with a display size that’s different, which raises the question of who would really need a tablet that large.

    Innovative Features

    The source claims that the iPad Pro Fold will implement a metal metalens to address the space limitations that come with foldable tablets. Additionally, it’s expected to include under-display 3D facial recognition, making it one of the first Apple devices to offer this feature.

    Timeline for Launch

    While the foldable iPhone is expected to make its debut in 2026, the foldable tablet is projected to be several years from release. Reports suggest that the iPad Pro Fold could arrive no sooner than 2028 and will likely incorporate Capsule OLED Encapsulation technology.

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  • Apple iPhone 17: 3D Printed Dummies Show Pro and Pro Max Design Changes

    Apple iPhone 17: 3D Printed Dummies Show Pro and Pro Max Design Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 series will feature a distinct design, particularly noticeable on the back.
    2. The iPhone 16e will be the last iPhone launched before the iPhone 17 series, coming out in mid-February.
    3. Expected visual changes between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 are minimal, with similar thickness measurements.
    4. The Pro and Pro Max models of the iPhone 17 are set to have significant design updates, including a larger camera housing.
    5. The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to have very thick buttons and will likely measure around 5.5 mm in thickness.

    The iPhone 17 series may very well be among Apple’s most distinct in terms of appearance, especially when looking at the back. There won’t be any new iPhones launched for about six months, following the release of the iPhone 16e in mid-February. According to recent leaks, the designs for the upcoming iPhones are already finalized.

    Design Insights from iDeviceHelp

    For example, the YouTube channel iDeviceHelp has shared a video that displays dummy models for all four rumored iPhone 17 versions. Created in partnership with Majin Bu, the video suggests that there won’t be many visual changes between the iPhone 16, which is currently priced at $759.97 (renewed on Amazon), and the iPhone 17. The thickness of both models is also similar, with iDeviceHelp measuring the iPhone 17 at around 7.28 mm.

    Changes in Pro Models

    On the other hand, Apple’s Pro and Pro Max models are expected to see more significant design updates. As it is already known that there will be a larger camera housing, iDeviceHelp anticipates that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will measure about 8.3 mm in thickness. This information contradicts a recent rumor from Ice Universe, which we have discussed in another article.

    Features of the iPhone 17 Air

    The video also showcases the iPhone 17 Air, which features buttons that are nearly as thick as the phone itself. Additionally, iDeviceHelp confirms that the first iPhone will likely be around 5.5 mm thick. For more insights, be sure to check out the video below.

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  • Apple M4 MacBook Air Debuts on Geekbench: Performance Insights

    Apple M4 MacBook Air Debuts on Geekbench: Performance Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new MacBook Air features Apple’s M4 chip, showcasing impressive performance similar to the Pro model.
    2. Geekbench scores for the MacBook Air are 3,680 (single-core) and 14,924 (multi-core), indicating minimal performance differences from the Pro model in standard tasks.
    3. The Metal test score for the M4 MacBook Air is 54,864, which is lower than the average score of 57,948.
    4. The performance gap in Metal tests may be due to fewer GPU cores in the entry-level 13-inch MacBook Air.
    5. The tested MacBook Air model likely has 16 GB of RAM, suggesting it is a base model.

    Just a day after a somewhat lackluster press release, the new MacBook Air powered by Apple’s M4 chip has made its debut on Geekbench. This showcases the impressive new chip and gives us an idea of the performance we can expect from it. Not surprisingly, its performance is quite similar to that of the Pro model.

    Geekbench Scores Revealed

    The MacBook Air (Mac16,13) achieves scores of 3,680 in single-core and 14,924 in multi-core tests on Geekbench 6.4. These scores are close to the average results in our benchmark database, which are 3,748 and 15,100 respectively. This suggests there won’t be a significant performance gap between the Pro and Air models, at least in tasks that don’t require prolonged performance.

    Metal Test Performance

    In the Metal test conducted by Geekbench, the M4 MacBook Air scores 54,864 points, which is noticeably lower than our average score of 57,948. This might be attributed to the reduced number of GPU cores in the entry-level 13-inch MacBook Air. However, we can’t be certain since Geekbench does not disclose the GPU core count. Nevertheless, it is likely that this is a base model as it comes equipped with 16 GB of RAM.

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    Apple M4 MacBook Air Debuts on Geekbench: Performance InsightsApple M4 MacBook Air Debuts on Geekbench: Performance Insights
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  • Apple C1 Modem Update: New Feature for iPhone 16e

    Apple C1 Modem Update: New Feature for iPhone 16e

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s upcoming 5G modem, expected to be named C3, may simply be an upgraded version of the existing C1 model.
    2. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts the new modem will return in 2026, potentially disappointing iPhone 16e owners due to missing features in the current version.
    3. The updated modem may include components for mmWave support, which were absent in the first C1 due to power consumption concerns.
    4. Apple might use the older 28 nanometer process for cost efficiency instead of adopting newer, more expensive technology for the 5G modem.
    5. The refreshed C1 (possibly called “C1x”) is anticipated to improve transmission speeds and power efficiency, despite not having significant architectural changes.

    Apple’s upcoming 5G modem is expected to be called the C3, but it may actually just be a revised version of the original C1.

    Analyst Insights

    Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known analyst from TF International Securities, who often makes accurate predictions, has revealed that Apple plans to reintroduce its first 5G modem in 2026. This news might not please owners of the iPhone 16e, as this new chip version could include the transceiver and RF front-end that supports mmWave, which was missing from the first C1.

    Possible Changes in Hardware

    Kuo notes that these components were not included in the initial version because they could have increased power consumption in the 16e. However, they may be prepared for the C1’s upgrade next year. Apple could also reduce costs by using the older 28 nanometer (nm) process, as opting for a newer process doesn’t seem necessary or economical for a 5G modem.

    Future Expectations

    Interestingly, while the current C1 features an advanced architecture of up to 4nm (similar to the A16 Bionic chip), it’s doubtful that it will see any further enhancements in the rumored C1 refresh. Nevertheless, this updated C1 (possibly referred to as “C1x”) is expected to offer improved transmission speeds and better power efficiency.

    In addition, the iPhone 14 Pro is now priced lower than the basic 16e model (which has 256GB of storage, more cameras, and a newer Dynamic Island display) when purchased in Renewed condition on Amazon.

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  • MacBook Air Upgrade: Apple M4, Extra RAM, New Color Option

    MacBook Air Upgrade: Apple M4, Extra RAM, New Color Option

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple launched new products including the iPad Air, standard iPad (11th-gen), Mac Studio with M3 Ultra, and M4 MacBook Air.
    2. The 13-inch MacBook Air starts at $999 with 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM, and a 10-core CPU; the 15-inch model starts at $1,199 with consistent specs.
    3. The M4 MacBook Air features a 12 MP webcam, 66.5 Wh battery, two Thunderbolt 4.0 ports, MagSafe charging, and supports video output to two 6K displays.
    4. The new MacBook Air does not include Wi-Fi 7, utilizing Wi-Fi 6e instead, and comes with a 35 Watt charging brick, upgradeable to 65 Watt for an extra cost.
    5. Pre-orders for the M4 MacBook Air start today, available in four colors: Sky Blue, Silver, Starlight, and Midnight; retail sales begin on March 12.

    Apple has been really busy launching new products recently. Just yesterday, they unveiled a fresh iPad Air along with the standard iPad (11th-generation). Shortly after, they introduced a new Mac Studio featuring the robust M3 Ultra, and now we have the highly anticipated M4 MacBook Air. Although there is a slight price decrease, there are a few quirks regarding the M4 model available in each version.

    Pricing and Specs

    Take the 13-inch MacBook Air, for instance, which begins at $999. It comes with 256 GB of storage, 16 GB of RAM, equipped with a 10-core CPU and an 8-core GPU. If you want the 10-core GPU, you’ll need to pay $1,199 for that same set of specs. The maximum RAM you can have is 32 GB, while storage can reach up to 2 TB. Fortunately, the 15-inch MacBook Air is more straightforward, starting at $1,199. It offers a 10-core GPU across all models, keeping the initial RAM and storage consistent with the 13-inch version.

    Additional Features

    Other features of the M4 MacBook Air include a 12 MP webcam located in a noticeable notch, a 66.5 Wh battery, two Thunderbolt 4.0 ports, a MagSafe charging port, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. Additionally, it can now support video output to two 6K displays. However, this generation of MacBook Air still doesn’t have Wi-Fi 7, so you will be using Wi-Fi 6e instead. In the box, you’ll find a 35 Watt charging brick, although you can opt to upgrade to a 65 Watt version if you’re willing to pay extra.

    Availability

    Pre-orders for the new MacBook Air kick off today on Apple’s website, available in four color options: Sky Blue (a new shade), Silver, Starlight, and Midnight. Major retailers will start selling it on March 12.

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  • iPad Air Update: M3 Chip, Apple Intelligence, New Magic Keyboard

    iPad Air Update: M3 Chip, Apple Intelligence, New Magic Keyboard

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple introduced a new M3-powered iPad Air available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, maintaining a similar design to the previous model.
    2. The new iPad Air features 8 GB of RAM, supports Apple Intelligence, and offers storage options from 128 GB to 1 TB.
    3. The M3 chip in the iPad Air has nine GPU cores, one less than the full version of the M3 chip.
    4. Pricing starts at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model, with no price increase from previous versions.
    5. New Magic Keyboards for the iPad Air are available, priced at $269 for the 11-inch and $319 for the 13-inch models, with availability starting March 13.

    Contrary to Mark Gurman’s expectations, Apple has made a surprising move by introducing a new M3-powered iPad Air along with the budget-friendly iPad 11th-gen. As the name indicates, this updated iPad Air utilizes Apple’s previous generation M3 System on a Chip (SoC), while the overall design and features of the compact tablet remain mostly unchanged.

    New Size Options

    The M3 iPad Air is offered in two sizes – 11-inch and 13-inch. However, it’s important to note that the Apple M3 included here has only nine GPU cores, in contrast to the ten cores available in the complete version. On the positive side, both models come with a minimum of 8 GB of RAM, as they support Apple Intelligence. Storage options start at 128 GB and can go up to 1 TB. Besides these updates, not much has altered compared to the previous iPad Air. The new M3 iPad Air comes in four color choices: blue, purple, starlight, and space gray.

    Pricing and Availability

    Pre-orders for the iPad Air can be made now, with prices beginning at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch version. Fortunately, there hasn’t been a price hike this time around. The 5G-capable versions start at $749 and $949, respectively. Additionally, Apple has unveiled two new Magic Keyboards designed for the iPad Air, priced at $269 for the 11-inch and $319 for the 13-inch models. Both the iPad Air variants and their accompanying keyboards will be available for purchase in stores starting March 13.

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