Tag: iPhone 15

  • iPhones Rumored to Offer Starlink Satellite Connectivity

    iPhones Rumored to Offer Starlink Satellite Connectivity

    Back in 2022, Apple introduced the iPhone 14 series, which came equipped with a crucial satellite connectivity feature aimed at saving lives. This capability has continued with the release of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models. Now, it appears that Apple is enhancing this technology through a confidential collaboration with SpaceX and T-Mobile.

    Partnership for Enhanced Connectivity

    According to a recent report from Bloomberg, the company from Cupertino is quietly collaborating with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones. This initiative likely utilizes the partnership that T-Mobile and SpaceX announced in 2022. The report also indicates that T-Mobile has started testing this feature with a limited group of iPhone users.

    Current Status of the Feature

    At this moment, the feature is still in beta testing, so it may not provide a seamless experience just yet. However, users with iPhones running iOS 18.3, which was launched earlier this week, can access the feature. T-Mobile noted in their official communication regarding the Starlink beta that, “You can now stay connected by texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.”

    Future Plans and Expectations

    For those who might not know, T-Mobile previously announced that Samsung Galaxy phones would also gain support for Starlink communication. Currently, the collaboration between T-Mobile and Starlink for Apple devices focuses solely on sending messages via satellite. Nonetheless, there are intentions to introduce voice calls and data services in the future. Earlier, there had been rumors of Apple working with GlobalStar for its satellite features, but now it seems the partnership with T-Mobile is expanding, with expectations that all users will gain access to this feature by the end of the year.

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  • USB-C Security Flaw on iPhone: Risk of Malware Accessing Data

    USB-C Security Flaw on iPhone: Risk of Malware Accessing Data

    The USB-C port found on the Apple iPhone 15 and 16 utilizes a controller chip that has been created by Apple themselves. As reported by Cyber Security News, security experts have successfully infiltrated this proprietary ACE3 chip. Thanks to advanced security measures, the hacking process is said to be significantly harder compared to the earlier ACE2 controller, which is present in devices like MacBooks.

    Electromagnetic Signals and Hacking Techniques

    By examining electromagnetic signals during the device’s startup, the researchers pinpointed the precise moment when the firmware gets validated. They employed a method known as “electromagnetic fault injection” to load modified firmware onto an iPhone, enabling the controller to boot it while bypassing Apple’s security checks. The specialists highlighted that this presents major risks for iPhone security, as altered firmware could enable jailbreaking or modifications to iOS, potentially allowing malware access to sensitive information or even control specific functions on an iPhone.

    Physical Access and Phishing Threats

    Nonetheless, it’s important to note that attackers need to have physical access to an iPhone to execute such an attack, which suggests that this security issue will likely not affect most users. Meanwhile, BleepingComputer has shed light on new phishing schemes designed to circumvent one of iMessage’s security protocols. Although Apple automatically disables links in messages from unrecognized contacts, these links become active when the recipient replies. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of this feature by convincing their targets to respond to messages. For example, attackers may try to persuade potential victims that they can stop further messages by sending “STOP.” Once a response is given, the criminals can freely distribute phishing links through iMessage. Just like with emails, it is wise to avoid clicking on links from unverified sources.

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  • Galaxy S25 Ultra: Inspired by iPhone 15 Blue Design

    Galaxy S25 Ultra: Inspired by iPhone 15 Blue Design

    It looks like we have a good amount of info about Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series smartphones, but some leaks may still catch us off guard soon. There’s been a lot of talk about the color choices for the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra.

    Speculations on Color Variants

    Previous findings from online retailers hinted that the Galaxy S25 Ultra would come in a rich blue shade. However, a new update from trusted leaker Ice Universe suggests a different outcome. If this insider is right, the blue version of the Galaxy S25 Ultra could resemble the soft blue of the iPhone 15, which debuted in 2023. Many folks might recall that the iPhone 15’s color seemed more whitish than blue, at least according to the opinions of most smartphone users.

    Reactions from Users

    Some users have responded with sarcasm to this news, suggesting that Samsung might be short on creative color choices for the Galaxy S25 Ultra. This theory makes some sense, considering that the South Korean firm has been trimming its spending in recent years. Even though the upcoming leading smartphone may still catch the eye, it would require a lot of creativity to advertise this new color as “Titanium Blue.” Regardless, a deep blue hue looks unlikely unless the well-known leaker has been misled by false information.

    Source: Link

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  • Oppo Reno 13 First Look: iPhone-Inspired Design Revealed

    Oppo Reno 13 First Look: iPhone-Inspired Design Revealed

    Oppo is likely to reveal its new Reno smartphone series, known as the Reno 13, in just a few weeks. Before the official announcement, a picture of the Reno 13 has surfaced online, giving us a sneak peek at this upcoming mid-range device.

    First Glimpse of Reno 13

    The image was shared on Weibo by the well-known leaker, Digital Chat Station. It displays a partial view of the Reno 13 alongside an iPhone 15, showcasing the resemblance between Oppo’s latest offering and Apple’s 2023 model.

    A Fresh Design Approach

    The picture indicates that Oppo is moving towards a new design for its Reno smartphones. The rectangular camera setup from the Reno 12 has been replaced with a unique transparent squircle glass, reminiscent of the iPhone 15. Additionally, Oppo has implemented a seamless glass mold, although the camera layout is distinct to set it apart from Apple’s design. The Reno 13 features a round LED flash, in contrast to the pill-shaped one seen in its predecessor.

    Frame and Build Quality

    Oppo has also revamped the frame of the Reno 13. It resembles the frame of the iPhone 15 (which can be found on Amazon for $566), and we are hopeful that it utilizes the same recycled aluminum for improved durability, especially since the Reno 12 came with a shiny, mirror-like plastic frame.

    While Oppo hasn’t confirmed the launch date for the Reno 13 series, previous leaks suggest it could be unveiled on November 25 in China. There are expected to be at least two variants: a standard model and a pro version. The pro variant is rumored to feature a 6.78-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 50MP periscope telephoto camera that offers 3x optical zoom.

    Source: Link

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  • iPhone 15 Tops Global Smartphone Sales in Recent Study

    iPhone 15 Tops Global Smartphone Sales in Recent Study

    The iPhone 15, along with the 15 Pro Max and 15 Pro, are ranked as the top three best-selling smartphones according to the latest data from Counterpoint Research.

    Android vs. Apple

    Data from the third quarter of 2024 (3Q2024) indicates that Android phones are still trailing behind the popularity of Apple’s devices, with a notable demand for premium models continuing. Interestingly, the standard 15 model made up a significant portion of the iPhone sales, capturing half of the total sales reported, even though the larger 15 Plus was not mentioned in the findings.

    Samsung’s Place in the Market

    On the other hand, the budget-friendly Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, along with its 4G/LTE-only version (which is currently available starting at $149.99 on Amazon), secured spots in the top five. Additionally, the standard S24 made its way to #10 on the list. It was the sole representative of its flagship series to enter this ranking, being outperformed by the Redmi 13C 4G, which landed at #9.

    Future Rankings

    With the launch of the iPhone 16, it will be intriguing to see if its revamped camera design and A18 chip can alter these standings in the upcoming last quarter of 2024. Counterpoint Research’s insights will shed further light on the smartphone landscape as we move forward.

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  • iPhone 15 Series Leads Global Sales, Samsung Galaxy S24 Follows

    iPhone 15 Series Leads Global Sales, Samsung Galaxy S24 Follows

    Apple’s iPhone 15 tops global smartphone sales in the third quarter of 2024, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro following closely behind, according to Counterpoint Research data. This quarter marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first time that Pro models accounted for half of all iPhone sales in a third quarter.

    Samsung’s Performance

    Samsung’s Galaxy S24 has remained within the top 10 for three consecutive quarters, marking the first time since 2018 that a Galaxy S model has achieved this feat. Collectively, the top 10 smartphone models represented 19% of total smartphone sales worldwide in Q3 2024.

    Brand Distribution

    Apple secured four positions in the top 10, while Samsung claimed five spots, and Xiaomi captured one. The lineup has not changed significantly from last year, indicating that consumer preferences are relatively stable. A noticeable trend is the increasing interest in premium smartphones, as evidenced by the narrowing gap between the standard and Pro iPhone models. Apple’s marketing strategies, varied payment options, and trade-in promotions have made the latest iPhones more accessible to a broader audience, particularly in emerging markets.

    Xiaomi’s Position

    The Galaxy S24 from Samsung also achieved impressive results, thanks in part to its emphasis on GenAI features that attracted customers. The Galaxy A series, recognized for its budget-friendly pricing and extended software support, secured four positions in the top 10, largely due to its popularity in developing markets and a focus on affordable options. Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C maintained its place in the top 10 owing to its low cost and superior features compared to the previous Redmi 12C model.

    Overall, the iPhone 15 series dominated the global smartphone market in Q3 2024, driven by robust demand and innovative features. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 and Galaxy A series performed admirably, bolstered by their strong brand image and diverse product offerings.

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  • Redmi K70 16GB + 512GB Limited Time Price Cut in China

    Redmi K70 16GB + 512GB Limited Time Price Cut in China

    Xiaomi’s Redmi K70, which was launched in November of the previous year, is currently being sold at a much lower price in China. Initially marked at 2999 yuan ($427), the 16GB + 512GB variant is now available for just 2487 yuan ($354) on Tmall, thanks to various promotions and special vouchers.

    Pricing Options

    Additionally, this model can be found on JD.com priced at 2649 yuan ($377). Customers shopping on Tmall can also take advantage of benefits such as three-month interest-free payments through Huabei and major credit cards, which adds more value to the purchase.

    Design and Colors

    The Redmi K70 showcases a stylish, quad-curved design along with a velvet glass finish and a matte metal frame. It comes in four elegant color choices: Bamboo Moon Blue, Light Aubergine Purple, Clear Snow, and Ink Feather.

    Technical Specifications

    The device features a 6.67-inch 2K AMOLED screen with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, supporting a refresh rate of 120Hz and a touch sampling rate of 2160Hz. It also offers HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for improved visuals, with a peak brightness reaching up to 4000 nits, which helps visibility in bright settings.

    Powering the Redmi K70 is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, achieving more than 1.71 million in benchmark tests. It is equipped with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage for quick performance and seamless multitasking. Moreover, it features the Berserk Engine 3.0 and a 5000mm² VC liquid cooling system, ensuring consistent performance during gaming and demanding tasks.

    The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor with Optical and Electronic Image Stabilization (OIS + EIS), allowing for clear and stable images. The rear camera array also incorporates an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro lens, supporting 8K video recording for high-quality cinematic footage. For selfies and video calls, a 16MP front camera is available.

    Battery and Connectivity

    The Redmi K70 is powered by a 5000mAh battery that enables 120W fast charging, ensuring a quick recharge for users. Regarding connectivity options, the device supports 5G SA/NSA, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and multiple satellite navigation systems, making it an all-around connected and future-ready smartphone.

    In case your thinking about an iPhone upgrade, Apple has recently revealed price reductions for the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 14, and 14 Plus in India, with savings of up to ₹20,000 on different storage configurations. This change comes after the launch of the iPhone 16 series, making last-generation iPhones more accessible for those looking to upgrade or buy their first iPhone.

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  • iPhone 15 Series Now Available at Record-Low Prices in China

    iPhone 15 Series Now Available at Record-Low Prices in China

    Apple is resorting to significant price cuts on its iPhone 15 lineup in mainland China to revive sluggish sales. Major online retailers like JD.com and Alibaba’s Tmall platform are offering the phones at new lows.

    For instance, the top-tier 256GB iPhone 15 Pro Max is now priced at 7,949 yuan ($1,100) on these platforms. That’s a big 2,050 yuan (20%) reduction from its initial September 2023 launch price of 9,999 yuan.

    Price Reductions Across Models

    The base 128GB iPhone 15 also sees a 23% price drop, going from 5,999 yuan ($829) to 4,599 yuan ($635).

    Note that Apple’s official mainland online store is listing the iPhone 15s at their original launch price. The discount is only available on major e-commerce platforms.

    Apple is believed to be offering such aggressive discounts to reignite Chinese audience interest in their flagship product. For those unaware, iPhone sales in Greater China (including mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan) dipped by 8% to US$16.4 billion in the March quarter.

    Competitive Market Moves

    Apple’s unusual discount strategy in Chinese online marketplaces began in January. It came after several Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and Honor slashed prices of their phones on both online and offline markets.

    So in the same month, Apple itself offered discounts of up to 800 yuan on its mainland online store for iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, AirPods, and Apple Watches.

    According to market research firm Counterpoint, Apple’s market share in mainland China’s smartphone market shrunk to 15.7% in the March quarter, down from 20.2% a year earlier.

    Market Share and Competition

    The decline placed them behind Vivo (17.4% share) and Honor (16.1% share). Huawei, with its successful 5G handset comeback featuring the Mate 60 Pro, secured a 15.5% market share during the same period.

    Despite the concerns, the discounts on iPhones may be yielding some positive results for Apple. Data published by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology earlier this month suggests that shipments of foreign-branded smartphones in China grew 12% compared to March 2023. While the academy didn’t specify the brand, Apple typically dominates foreign handset sales in mainland China.

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  • Apple Boosts iPhone 15 Battery Life Sans Updates or Hardware Changes

    Apple Boosts iPhone 15 Battery Life Sans Updates or Hardware Changes

    Apple’s Unique Control Over iPhone Design and Performance

    Apple stands out in the smartphone market due to its distinctive approach of exercising complete control over both the hardware and software of its devices. While competitors like Samsung customize Google’s Android operating system and source components from various manufacturers, Apple takes a different route by designing a significant portion of the iPhone’s hardware and software in-house.

    Apple’s Exclusive Control

    This method grants Apple exclusive control over its devices, setting it apart from other smartphone manufacturers. The company’s recent statement, however, has sparked curiosity and raised eyebrows among consumers and tech enthusiasts alike.

    Apple recently made an intriguing revelation regarding the battery life of the iPhone 15. The company claims that the phone’s battery now offers double the originally promised lifespan without any alterations to its hardware or software.

    Apple Updates iPhone 15’s Battery Lifespan Information

    In a surprising move, Apple updated the information regarding the iPhone 15’s battery lifespan on its support page. The company now asserts that these phones will retain up to 80% of their original capacity over 1000 charge cycles, a significant increase from the previous estimate of 500 cycles. Notably, Apple did not introduce any hardware or software updates to achieve this improvement.

    The company conducted further testing on the iPhone 15 series to validate this claim and subsequently adjusted the information provided to consumers.

    Apple’s Strategic Move

    The timing of this alteration in battery lifespan specifications has prompted some to question Apple’s motives. While many would prefer to trust in Apple’s integrity, the timing coincides suspiciously with the impending EU regulations concerning energy ratings assigned to smartphone batteries.

    The European Union is set to implement new regulations that will assign energy efficiency ratings ranging from A to G to smartphones, akin to the system used for household appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. These ratings will reflect a phone’s battery life and overall energy efficiency.

    Apple’s decision to update the iPhone 15’s battery lifespan specifications appears to align with the upcoming EU standards, indicating the company’s effort to ensure compliance with the regulations. Importantly, these changes are not expected to have a significant impact on users of previous iPhone models, as the 80% battery capacity expectation after 500 charge cycles remains applicable to the iPhone 14 series and earlier models.

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  • Flipkart’s Valentine’s Day Sale offers a whopping Rs 13,900 discount on Apple iPhone 15

    Flipkart’s Valentine’s Day Sale offers a whopping Rs 13,900 discount on Apple iPhone 15

    Apple launched its latest iPhone generation back in September 2023. Now, the base iPhone 15 model is officially going on discount just a couple of months after its release during Flipkart’s Valentine’s Day sale.

    Apple iPhone 15 Valentine’s Day Sale

    To recall, the Cupertino based giant unveiled the iPhone 15 for a starting price tag of 79,900 INR in the region for its 128GB model. On the other hand, the 256GB and 512GB variants cost 89,900 INR and 109,900 INR respectively. But during the Valentine’s Day sale on Flipkart, you can get your hands on an iPhone 15 for just 65,999 INR for the base version.

    Apple iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus

    This is thanks to a 13,900 INR discount. Buyers can get an additional discount of 1,500 INR with Citi, HSBC, DBS, and Bank of Baroda cards. HDFC Credit card holders can avail a flat 2,000 INR discount as well, which basically brings down the effective price tag to just 63,999 INR. Lastly, Flipkart Axis Bank Credit card holders can avail a 3,300 INR cashback. Interestingly, the Indian discount follows a week after Apple discounted the price of the iPhone 15 in China during the Chinese New Year.

    For those unaware, the iPhone 15 is available for purchase in multiple colors, namely Blue, Green, Yellow, Pink, and Black. It sports a 6.1-inch OLED display with a Dynamic Island and HDR support. Under the hood, the iPhone 15 is equipped with the A16 Bionic chipset. The rear packs a 48-megapixel primary camera with OIS support and a 12-megapixel ultra wide angle lens. Meanwhile, the front offers a 12-megapixel selfie shooter.

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