Tag: IOS 18

  • Apple Activates Controversial Privacy Feature Without Announcement

    Apple Activates Controversial Privacy Feature Without Announcement

    Since iOS 18 was released, the "Enhanced Visual Search" feature has automatically been turned on in the iPhone photo app. This tool lets the phone identify locations in user photos by comparing them to a global index that Apple manages. However, as developer and iPhone user Jeff Johnson pointed out in a recent blog entry, having this feature enabled by default raises privacy issues, yet it surprisingly didn’t get much attention when it launched.

    Apple’s Communication on the New Feature

    In his blog, Johnson outlines two occasions where Apple brings up this new function. The first mention is found on Apple’s website, which includes an update to the legal notice about photos and privacy. The second mention is in a blog entry titled "Combining Machine Learning and Homomorphic Encryption in the Apple Ecosystem." Both documents stress Apple’s commitment to security, but the blog gives a better understanding of how AI processes the photos that utilize "Enhanced Visual Search."

    How Enhanced Visual Search Works

    The process for enhanced visual search starts with AI analyzing a photo to see if it features a possible landmark. If a landmark is found, the phone generates a code that represents it, known as an embedding by Apple. This code is then encrypted and transmitted to Apple’s servers through third-party channels to obscure the user’s location. When Apple’s servers get the code, they look for a matching landmark in their database and send the information back for decryption. Finally, another AI on the phone identifies the best match for the landmark and labels the photo accordingly.

    Privacy Considerations for Users

    For some, this feature might be a great addition to their experience, but for others, including Johnson, it represents yet another risk to privacy. In the end, users have the choice to turn this feature on or off and weigh the privacy concerns involved. However, one should wonder how much control users actually have over their privacy choices when decisions might already be made without their knowledge.

    Jeff Johnson and Apple have brought this issue to light, but the conversation around user privacy in technology continues to be important.

    Source: Link

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  • Apple Software Update Adds Wired Xbox Controller Support

    Apple Software Update Adds Wired Xbox Controller Support

    Apple has introduced support for wired Xbox Controllers with the launch of iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. This allows users with a wired Xbox Controller to easily play games on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac by just connecting the controller via a cable.

    Native Support for Controllers

    Apple typically integrates built-in support for gaming controllers across its devices. It can sometimes take time for this to happen; for example, the Xbox Elite 2 Controller took a year to gain support. However, while Xbox Wireless Controllers and both wired and wireless PlayStation controllers have had support for a while, wired Xbox Controllers have only just been included.

    Custom USB Protocol Challenge

    The significance of this implementation lies in the fact that Xbox controllers utilize a unique USB protocol known as GIP, in contrast to the USB-HID standard used by other controllers. This means that Apple needed to collaborate with Microsoft/Xbox to enable smooth functionality for these wired controllers.

    Easy Connection Process

    Connecting a wired Xbox Controller is quite simple. If your device has a USB-C port, just use a USB-C to USB-C cable. For older devices like the iPhone 14 that feature a Lightning port, you’ll require a Lightning to USB-C adapter to link the controller’s USB-C cable.

    Even though wired controllers can be a bit cumbersome due to their cables, they do offer the benefit of reduced latency when compared to their wireless counterparts. If you already possess an Xbox Wireless Controller, you can just connect it using a cable. Alternatively, you might consider purchasing a wired Xbox Controller, such as the GameSir T7 wired gaming controller, which is currently listed on Amazon for $27.99.

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  • iOS 18 VoiceOver Bug Exposes Passwords, Raises Security Issues

    iOS 18 VoiceOver Bug Exposes Passwords, Raises Security Issues

    After a major glitch in iOS 18 recently led to iPhone users losing their chat histories, another issue has emerged where iPhones and iPads read stored passwords aloud. This glitch is linked to the VoiceOver feature, designed to assist those with visual impairments. Affected devices include the iPhone XS and newer models, alongside various iPads like the iPad Pro and iPad Air.

    Cause of the Issue

    This issue stems from a bug within the password app that was rolled out with several new features in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. The app is meant to gather all saved passwords in one location, giving users an easy and secure way to manage their login details.

    Update and Fixes

    Apple quickly responded to this bug by launching the iOS 18.0.1 update on October 3, which fixed the problem. They also patched another security flaw that allowed audio recordings to occur without the microphone indicator lighting up on the latest iPhone 16 models.

    User Opinions on Updates

    In discussions on Reddit, users are weighing whether it’s better to update to iOS 18 at this point or to wait for further updates, considering the high likelihood of bugs. While many Redditors accept that software issues often follow major updates, some prefer to hold off on upgrading for now.

    Image source: Apple / Apple Developer

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  • iPhone Users Face Fast Battery Drain After iOS 18 Update

    iPhone Users Face Fast Battery Drain After iOS 18 Update

    Some users of iPhones have recently noted a significant decrease in battery performance following the installation of the iOS 18 update. Reports indicate that some individuals are experiencing a reduction of 20% to 30% in battery life within just one hour.

    Impact on Daily Use

    This unexpected dip in battery life can make it difficult for users to last through the day on a single charge. This situation is particularly concerning for iOS users, as iPhones do not provide fast charging speeds comparable to many Android devices in a similar price range. In fact, a large number of iPhone users still rely on overnight charging.

    Apple’s Guidance

    Thankfully, Apple has shared several recommendations to assist users in pinpointing and resolving the issues related to battery drain, which could enhance battery performance. For those utilizing the iOS 18 beta version, experiencing a drop in battery efficiency is not uncommon, as beta testers have reported similar problems in the past.

    According to Apple Support, while users can start using their iPhones right after an update, certain processes continue to run in the background. This can temporarily impact battery life and thermal performance. These ongoing tasks may lead to increased power consumption until they are completed.

    Normal Battery Optimization

    If you notice a decline in battery performance post-iOS 18 installation, there’s no need for immediate concern. Typically, battery optimization improves over a few days as the system acclimates to the new update.

    Tips for Reducing Battery Drain

    Although iPhones usually optimize battery usage over time, users can take several measures to minimize power consumption:

    • Enable Auto-Brightness or Auto-Lock: Utilizing these features can help save battery by lowering screen brightness and turning off the display when not in use.
    • Check App Permissions: Some applications may access your location in the background, which can drain battery life. Reviewing these permissions can help reduce unnecessary power usage.
    • Use Wi-Fi: Whenever feasible, connect to Wi-Fi networks since they generally consume less battery than cellular data.
    • Turn on Low Power Mode: Low Power Mode helps conserve battery by disabling non-essential features, such as background app refresh and visual effects.

    To gain insights into battery usage, navigate to Settings > Battery and examine the Activity and Battery Usage charts. These features reveal which apps are using the most power, enabling you to make necessary adjustments.

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  • iOS 18 Downgrades iPhones to 80Hz Refresh Rate? Evidence Disputes

    iOS 18 Downgrades iPhones to 80Hz Refresh Rate? Evidence Disputes

    The launches of iOS 18 and iPadOS have faced significant challenges. For instance, users found that upgrading older iPhones to iOS 18 led to decreased performance. In addition, Apple had to pause the distribution of iPadOS 18 due to reports of it causing some Apple M4-based iPad Pro 11 and iPad Pro 13 devices to become inoperable.

    Performance Issues and Claims

    Further reports indicated that iOS 18 restricts the refresh rate on iPhones with ProMotion technology to 80 Hz during scrolling. This information appears to have originated from Ice Universe, who shared evidence that their iPhone 16 Pro Max (currently priced at $1,199.99 on Amazon) was "always locked at 80Hz" while scrolling on Weibo. Given Ice Universe’s standing in the tech community, their assertions have been largely accepted without thorough investigation.

    On one side, there is no evidence to confirm that the application used to measure the refresh rate is reliable. Additionally, other users have shown that their iPhones, capable of 120 Hz, can indeed reach that refresh rate while scrolling. However, it has been observed that quickly swiping in certain applications can trigger the display’s variable refresh rate feature, limiting it to 80 Hz.

    Historical Context of the Issue

    Interestingly, the 80 Hz issue on 120 Hz capable iPhones predates both the release of iOS 18 and the iPhone 16 series. A quick search reveals that early adopters of the iPhone 13 Pro Max were voicing similar concerns back in October 2021. Similarly, YouTuber Golden Reviewer also expressed dissatisfaction in a video from that time titled "120Hz ProMotion is Bugged on iPhone." Essentially, it seems that a well-followed account is now drawing attention to a problem that may have been present since Apple introduced ProMotion displays with the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max over three years ago.

    Sources include @UniverseIce, @BrightMinho, @ianzelbo, @vvaiibhav, MacRumors Forums, and Golden Reviewer.

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  • iOS 18 Slows Older iPhones for Better Battery Life

    iOS 18 Slows Older iPhones for Better Battery Life

    Apple recently released the stable version of iOS 18, coinciding with the launch of the new iPhone 16 models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This latest iOS version is compatible with all iPhones starting from the iPhone Xs. While iOS 18 introduces several new features, initial assessments indicate that it may lead to a decrease in performance across various iPhone models.

    Performance Impact on Older Models

    It’s important to mention that the performance issues are exclusive to iPhones that could previously run iOS 17. The new iPhone 16 series, which cannot revert to earlier versions before iOS 18.0, is not affected. Geekerwan reported a 3.5% decline in both single-threaded and multi-threaded performance when comparing the iPhone 14 Pro Max on iOS 17 to iOS 18, using Geekbench 6 for testing. Additionally, the iPhone 15 Pro Max (currently priced at $989 – renewed on Amazon) showed a 3.8% drop in single-threaded performance and a 3.9% reduction in multi-threaded performance.

    Analysis of Benchmark Results

    Although there are some differences in the results within Geekbench’s public database, Geekerwan’s findings have been consistently replicated. While Geekbench does not provide an explanation for the performance changes, Geekerwan’s analysis indicates that Apple has adjusted the CPU boost clock settings in iOS 18 compared to iOS 17. Consequently, the A17 Pro processor takes about 33% longer to reach its peak clock speeds in iOS 18 than in its predecessor.

    Battery Life Considerations

    As a result, users of the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max may experience slower performance in synthetic benchmarks that are executed over short durations. However, this change may have the intended effect of lowering power consumption. Theoretically, this could lead to improved battery longevity, although the actual increase in battery performance during everyday use is yet to be determined.

    Geekerwan via Wccftech & @LeakerApple, Swello (Unsplash) – Image credits

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  • iOS 18 iMessage Crash Fix: What You Need to Know

    iOS 18 iMessage Crash Fix: What You Need to Know

    Apple introduced iOS 18 in June of this year, and the rollout began just a few days ago. However, users are experiencing issues with the update, particularly with the iMessage app. A notable bug is causing the app to crash and leading to potential data loss, impacting both parties involved in the conversation.

    Sharing Watch Faces

    The Apple Watch includes a feature that allows users to share their watch faces via Messages or Mail directly from watchOS. This is designed to facilitate the sharing of customized watch face settings. The iMessage bug appears when someone replies to a shared watch face within a conversation in iOS 18.

    App Crashes

    When users attempt to access the conversation, the app crashes. Additionally, using other chat threads can become problematic as the app may crash multiple times. If a user replies to the shared watch face, the Messages app will crash not only on iOS 18.1 beta but also on iPadOS 18.1 beta and macOS 15.1 beta.

    Possible Solution

    For now, both users can resolve the issue by deleting the conversation thread from their devices. However, it is important to note that this action will erase the entire conversation history. This solution may also lead to the loss of any attachments, such as photos and videos, that were not saved outside of iMessage.

    Attempting to recover the deleted thread from the recently deleted section will also bring back the bug. Users hope that Apple will address this problem in iOS, macOS, and watchOS soon. Until a fix is implemented, it’s advisable for users to refrain from replying to any threaded messages that include a shared watch face from an Apple Watch.

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  • iOS 18 Beta: Key Improvements You Need to Know

    iOS 18 Beta: Key Improvements You Need to Know

    Apple recently posted the iOS 18 beta release notes on the Apple Developer site, detailing updates to FaceTime, Siri, and the Wallet app.

    Currently, iOS 18 is in Beta for members of the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta set for release in July. A wider release is anticipated in September. The SDK is included with Xcode 16, downloadable from the Mac App Store. Below are some key improvements.

    Audio Enhancement in Siri

    Apple states that iOS 18 has a new setting that can significantly improve Siri’s audio quality on Bluetooth car devices without CarPlay. This new option is accessible through the Settings app under Siri > Siri Responses > “Respond over Media Source.” The feature description notes, “Siri will respond over A2DP car stereos, which is ideal while listening to media from your phone.”

    Improvements in FaceTime

    FaceTime in iOS 18 will utilize more data in Low Power Mode when network conditions are favorable, enhancing video call quality.

    Security Enhancement in the Wallet App

    When adding an ID to the Wallet app on an iPhone, users may now be prompted to take a live photo, either instead of or in addition to the usual head and facial movements. Apple explains that the device will assess the live photo to verify the authenticity of the person adding the document.

    Initially announced in 2021, the ability to add a driver’s license or ID to the Wallet app has only been rolled out in four U.S. states: Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, and Georgia. This feature offers a convenient, contactless way to present identification or proof of age at select airports, businesses, and venues.

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  • Rename Siri Wake Word to Anything with iOS 18 Update

    Rename Siri Wake Word to Anything with iOS 18 Update

    Apple’s iOS 18 beta has rolled out a new accessibility feature named Vocal Shortcuts. While primarily designed to offer alternative control methods, users have found an unintended use: assigning a new wake word for Siri.

    Custom Voice Phrases for Shortcuts

    Vocal Shortcuts allows users to designate custom voice commands to initiate shortcuts and perform various tasks on their iPhones. Remarkably, one of these shortcuts can be set up to activate Siri itself. This means users can replace “Hey Siri” with a personalized wake word through Vocal Shortcuts.

    To try this on iOS, go to the Settings app, then Accessibility, and select Vocal Shortcuts. From there, choose “Set Up Vocal Shortcuts” and select “Siri” (not “Siri Request”). Next, type in your preferred wake word, such as “Computer,” as shown in the image below.

    How to Activate Siri with a Custom Wake Word

    Once everything is set up, you can use your chosen phrase to activate Siri on your iPhone. However, it’s important to note a few limitations. The custom wake word will only function on the specific device it was configured on and won’t sync across other Apple devices, like the HomePod, which still require “Hey Siri” for activation.

    Moreover, you won’t be able to seamlessly chain commands like “Hey Siri, what time is it?” with the new wake word. You’ll need to pause briefly after saying the custom wake word before making your actual request, which might interrupt the natural flow of interaction.

    Considerations and Current Limitations

    Due to these constraints, many users might choose not to utilize this feature. Nonetheless, it offers an alternative activation method for those who prefer it or have specific accessibility needs. It’s also worth mentioning that “Hey Siri” will continue to function as a wake word even when a custom one is set up through Vocal Shortcuts.

    Rename Siri Wake Word to Anything with iOS 18 Update
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  • iOS 18 AI Features Exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro, Not Older Models

    iOS 18 AI Features Exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro, Not Older Models

    Apple has been developing a range of AI features for the upcoming iPhone 16 series and beyond, which were anticipated to be available to older models with the iOS 18 update. However, according to Mark Gurman, the more sophisticated AI features will only be accessible on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    Limited AI Features for Older iPhones

    Mark Gurman suggests that while the basic AI functions in iOS 18 will operate on-device, the more advanced features will necessitate more processing power and will depend on Apple’s servers.

    Previous reports indicate that Apple is also creating chips for its servers to manage these advanced AI features. Additionally, there are mentions of the company’s plans to utilize its M series chips in servers to process AI tasks.

    The restriction of cloud-based AI features to fewer iPhones could be due to the current limited infrastructure. Similar strategies have been adopted by Samsung and Google, who have also reserved many of their advanced AI capabilities for newer models.

    iOS 18 AI Features

    The iOS 18 update is expected to incorporate AI features such as notification summarization (termed Greymatter Catch Up), object removal from photos, an overhauled notes app with speech-to-text and summarization capabilities, among others. Siri will also gain new abilities, like opening specific documents, deleting emails, and summarizing articles.

    AI Features for Older Models

    Most text-based AI functionalities are likely to be considered basic features that can run on-device. Therefore, recent iPhone models eligible for iOS 18 (including the iPhone 11 series and above, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generations) might receive these features. However, it remains unclear which specific features will be available on-device.

    Moreover, Gurman indicates that there could be some on-device AI features that only the iPhone 15 Pro models and later are capable of handling. These functionalities might not be available on older models and the non-Pro iPhone 15 models equipped with the A16 Bionic chip.

    AI Features in iPadOS 18 and macOS 15

    iPadOS 18 and macOS 15 are also set to receive some AI features. Gurman notes that the minimum requirement for macOS and iPadOS devices will be an M1 chip or later. Consequently, Intel-powered Mac devices will not support these features, which is understandable given that Intel chips and older iPhone Bionic chips lack the necessary NPU to run on-device LLMs.

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