Tag: iPhone 16

  • iOS 26: Android Features Coming to iPhones You Need to Know

    iOS 26: Android Features Coming to iPhones You Need to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is adopting features from Android, with iOS 26 introducing many long-awaited capabilities.
    2. The new Visual Intelligence feature allows users to capture screenshots and search for visible content within apps.
    3. Visual Intelligence is similar to Google Lens and Circle to Search found on Android devices.
    4. The feature is powered by ChatGPT, enhancing the AI capabilities of recent iPhone models.
    5. Apple’s focus on improved software is seen as a response to competition from Android brands.


    Smartphone companies are always looking at each other for ideas. Android brands often borrow design concepts from the iPhone, but Apple tends to lag behind when it comes to software capabilities. The recent WWDC 2025 event showcased its latest software suite for its devices, including the new iOS 26. Apple is finally adding many much-anticipated Android features to the iPhones, so let’s take a look at what’s on the way.

    New Feature Unveiling

    1. Visual Intelligence: Also Known as Circle to Search
    Apple’s Visual Intelligence
    If you’ve tried Google Lens or the well-known Circle to Search function on Android, this new feature will seem familiar. With iOS 26, Apple is introducing a fresh Visual Intelligence, which, as the name indicates, acts as an on-screen search tool. It enables users to capture a screenshot and look up anything visible within any app. This can include text, objects, locations, or even unfamiliar products.

    Enhanced Capabilities

    While Apple has been promoting its Apple Intelligence alongside the iPhone 16 series, the new Visual Intelligence takes things a step further, as it is driven by ChatGPT. Therefore, recent iPhones like the iPhone 15 Pro models, as well as the entire iPhone 16 series, will be capable of executing more intricate tasks and answering inquiries through AI.


  • iOS 26 Boosts iPhone Battery Life but Reduces Performance

    iOS 26 Boosts iPhone Battery Life but Reduces Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26 will be available in the fall for iPhone models from 11 to 16, featuring design changes and new AI capabilities.
    2. The new “Adaptive Power” feature slows down the processor and dims the screen to extend battery life, in addition to the existing Low Power Mode.
    3. A warning in settings indicates that certain tasks may take longer when Adaptive Power is active.
    4. iOS 26 will automatically switch to Low Power Mode when the battery level drops to 20%.
    5. The update may support future iPhone models like the rumored iPhone 17 Air, which could benefit from energy-saving features.


    Apple revealed iOS 26 on Monday, marking the next significant upgrade for the iPhone. This new operating system will be available in the fall for all models ranging from the iPhone 11 to the iPhone 16. The update brings a variety of design changes, innovative AI features, an overhauled camera app, and the introduction of a new gaming app. One noteworthy addition is the “Adaptive Power” feature, which users can turn on alongside the existing “Low Power Mode” found in the system settings.

    Understanding Adaptive Power

    While Low Power Mode mainly limits background tasks, like fetching new emails, Adaptive Power takes a different approach. It slows down the iPhone’s processor and dims the screen brightness. By focusing on these two energy-hungry elements, this feature aims to prolong battery life. It’s important to note that a message in the system settings warns users that certain tasks might take longer when Adaptive Power is in use. Additionally, when the battery level falls to 20%, iOS 26 will automatically switch to Low Power Mode.

    Future Prospects

    This feature seems particularly designed for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, which is rumored to have a 6.6-inch display while housing a small 3,000 mAh battery. Therefore, users might rely heavily on features like Adaptive Power to make it through the day without needing to recharge. Speculations have also emerged that iOS 26 might utilize AI to monitor user habits and intelligently lower power usage. However, there’s no evidence of this feature in the initial beta version of iOS 26, at least not yet.

    Apple | The Verge | MacRumors

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  • Bluefox NX1: Compact 4-Inch Smartphone with 3000mAh Battery

    Bluefox NX1: Compact 4-Inch Smartphone with 3000mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Bluefox NX1 features a compact 4-inch display, making it significantly smaller than most modern smartphones.
    2. It has a sleek design with dimensions of 10 x 4.9 x 1.2 cm and includes a 3,000 mAh battery for decent battery life.
    3. The device runs on a MediaTek Helio G81 chipset, with options for up to 8 GB of RAM and expandable storage via microSD.
    4. The camera setup includes a 5 MP front camera and a 21 MP rear camera using a Sony IMX230 sensor.
    5. The Bluefox NX1 is priced starting at ¥599 (about $83) and is expected to have a global release later in June.


    Smartphones that have a 6.3-inch display are now viewed as small by current standards. Take the Apple iPhone 16, which has a 6.1-inch screen and is one of the tiniest smartphones on the market today. However, breaking this norm is the ultra-compact Bluefox NX1, which sports a minuscule 4-inch display, akin to the size of the iPhone 5’s screen.

    Compact Design

    With dimensions of merely 10 x 4.9 x 1.2 cm (3.9 x 1.9 x 0.5 in), the NX1 is even more compact than the iPhone 5, thanks to its sleeker bezels. The thicker profile allows Bluefox to fit a 3,000 mAh battery, which should deliver decent battery life considering the small display and basic hardware. The IPS panel boasts a resolution of 1,168 x 540, achieving a peak brightness of 500 nits and a refresh rate of 60 Hz. To keep costs down, the company had to make some sacrifices apart from just the display.

    Performance and Features

    Inside, the Bluefox NX1 runs on the MediaTek Helio G81, a chipset that was first introduced in 2019. It is available with up to 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. The 5 MP front camera is surrounded by a Dynamic Island-like feature that can display battery level and incoming calls. On the rear, the device features a 21 MP main camera using a Sony IMX230 sensor. Although the NX1 comes preloaded with Android 15, Bluefox hasn’t provided any information regarding future updates.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Bluefox NX1 made its debut in China, with entry-level pricing starting at ¥599 (about $83) for the version that has 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. There’s also a premium version available with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, priced at ¥799 (around $111). A global release is anticipated to happen later in June.

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  • Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad Getting Taptic Button Upgrade Soon

    Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad Getting Taptic Button Upgrade Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is exploring a future for iPhones with no physical buttons or ports, inspired by the unsuccessful Meizu Zero concept.
    2. The new button technology may feature pressure sensitivity, allowing for varied functions like muting with a long press.
    3. The buttons could also recognize swipes and taps, providing unique haptic feedback for different interactions.
    4. The Taptic Buttons concept might extend beyond iPhones to iPads and Apple Watches, indicating broader application.
    5. There is potential for these buttons to evolve into solid-state controls integrated into the device’s frame, moving towards a seamless design.


    Apple is allegedly working towards a future where its iPhones have no buttons or ports, resembling the Meizu Zero concept that didn’t succeed. In the meantime, the tech giant from Cupertino might be introducing a new type of physical button.

    Innovative Button Technology

    These buttons are said to be different from the mechanical ones found in the latest iPhone 16 models. Instead, they could react to various pressure levels, allowing a volume button to mute the phone with a long press, for instance.

    Moreover, the buttons could detect swipes and taps besides just presses, each with unique haptic feedback. This project, often referred to as “Project Bongo,” was thought to be shelved by Apple before the iPhone 15 series launched. However, a Weibo user named Setsuna Digital believes this information could be incorrect.

    Expansion of the Project

    Additionally, the Taptic Buttons concept might extend to upcoming iPads and Apple Watches alongside iPhones, suggesting a broader application than initially expected. One of these buttons could eventually take the place of features like the Action Button on the Apple Watch Ultra.

    In the long run, there’s a chance these Taptic controls could become solid-state and fully integrated into the device’s frame, which could bring Apple’s vision of a seamless iPhone closer to reality.

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  • Apple iPhone 17 Expected: Dual 48 MP Cameras and 120 Hz Display

    Apple iPhone 17 Expected: Dual 48 MP Cameras and 120 Hz Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 series will likely have a larger display, increasing from 6.1 inches to approximately 6.27 inches.
    2. The iPhone 17 is expected to introduce a 120 Hz refresh rate for non-Pro models.
    3. The new iPhone 17 will be slightly taller than its predecessor but may have thicker bezels.
    4. It will feature a second 48 MP rear camera, likely for ultra-wide-angle photography.
    5. Pro models of the iPhone 17 are also expected to receive enhancements to their telephoto cameras.


    The iPhone 17 series is probably a few months away from its official reveal. Right now, Apple is anticipated to have a gap of about seven months between the iPhone 16e (currently priced at $584 – refurbished on Amazon) and the upcoming flagship models. However, Digital Chat Station claims to have some important information about the standard iPhone 17 ahead of its launch.

    Display Size Increase

    As per the leaker’s insights, Apple is planning to provide its basic iPhone with a display that is larger than the current 6.1-inch screen found in the iPhone 16. It’s expected that this year’s standard iPhone will increase to roughly 6.27 inches, while the iPhone 16 Pro will have a display of 6.3 inches. Notably, this new screen is likely to finally introduce a 120 Hz refresh rate for Apple’s non-Pro models as well.

    Consequently, the iPhone 17 is expected to be slightly taller than its predecessor. It might even reach the height of the iPhone 16 Pro, despite having a smaller display size. While the exact measurements are still not clear, it’s worth mentioning that Apple’s non-Pro iPhones typically have thicker display bezels compared to the Pro versions. Therefore, this small difference of 0.03 inches might be compensated for by the width of the bezels.

    Camera Upgrades

    Furthermore, Digital Chat Station indicates that the iPhone 17 will feature a second 48 MP rear camera. Although they didn’t specify the purpose of this new sensor, it’s likely that it will serve as an ultra-wide-angle camera instead of a telephoto one. Regardless, the same source suggests that Apple will enhance the telephoto cameras in this year’s Pro models as well.

    Digital Chat Station has shared these details about the iPhone 17, providing insight into what users can expect from the next generation of iPhones.

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  • Alert Slider on OnePlus: Control AI Features Easily

    Alert Slider on OnePlus: Control AI Features Easily

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus will introduce a customizable programmable button on the OnePlus 13s, similar to the iPhone 16’s button, allowing users to perform various functions.
    2. The Plus Key is connected to OnePlus’ new AI systems, Mind Space and AI Plus Mind, enabling users to save and extract important details from the screen.
    3. Users can access saved information using OnePlus’ voice assistant, with an alternative three-finger swipe gesture available for devices without the Plus Key.
    4. New AI features include AI Best Face 2.0 for improving group photos, AI Reframe for automatic image cropping, and a Call Assistant for call summaries and translations.
    5. OnePlus is advancing its integration of AI into devices, enhancing user experience and functionality across the OnePlus 13 series.


    OnePlus is set to introduce a new feature similar to Apple’s iPhone 16 (available refurbished from $601 on Amazon) by adding a programmable button on the side of its upcoming smartphones. This update will debut with the OnePlus 13s, which is scheduled for launch on June 5. Much like the iPhone 16’s button, users will be able to customize this button on OnePlus devices to perform actions such as muting the device, launching the camera app, or enabling various other functions.

    Innovative AI Integration

    The key aspect of the Plus Key is its connection to AI Plus Mind and Mind Space, which are OnePlus’ new artificial intelligence systems and related application. When properly configured, pressing the Plus Key will relay the information displayed on the screen to Mind Space. This goes beyond just taking a screenshot; the content shown will be examined to extract and preserve important details like appointments, items, or places.

    Enhanced Search Capabilities

    Users can also retrieve this saved information using OnePlus’ voice assistant, making it easy to find appointments and more. These AI functionalities are anticipated to be rolled out soon across all smartphones in the OnePlus 13 series. For devices without the Plus Key, users can utilize a three-finger swipe gesture to save content.

    Additional AI Features Unveiled

    In addition to Mind Space, OnePlus has revealed several new AI capabilities today. The AI Best Face 2.0 feature enhances group photos by correcting issues like blinking or unflattering facial expressions, while AI Reframe automatically crops images to enhance their visual appeal. Finally, the Call Assistant offers summaries and translations of calls, and VoiceScribe can transcribe phone conversations, even on third-party platforms like WhatsApp or Zoom.

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  • Replace Siri with Google Gemini on Apple iPhone Soon

    Replace Siri with Google Gemini on Apple iPhone Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has adjusted the iPhone to comply with EU rules, allowing third-party apps like PayPal to use the NFC chip for contactless payments.
    2. Users can now access alternative app stores, such as the Epic Games Store, for downloading apps and games.
    3. The iPhone 16 will feature a USB-C port due to EU regulations.
    4. Upcoming iOS updates will allow users to choose rival voice assistants, like Google Gemini, as defaults instead of just Siri.
    5. Apple is developing an AI-enhanced version of Siri to better compete with advanced alternatives from Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI.


    Apple has made many adjustments to the iPhone in recent years to stay within the bounds of EU rules like the Digital Markets Act. Because of this, third-party applications, including PayPal, can now utilize the NFC chip for contactless payments. Furthermore, users can now access alternative app stores, including the Epic Games Store, for downloading apps and games. The introduction of the USB-C port on the iPhone 16 also stems from the EU’s requirement for USB-C.

    Changes in Default Settings

    With iOS already allowing users to choose a browser like Google Chrome or a different email app as their default, similar changes are on the way for voice assistants. According to information from Bloomberg, Apple is developing iOS updates that will enable users to utilize rival voice assistants like Google Gemini instead of just Siri. Up until now, users have had to open specific apps to use other voice assistants, rather than being able to activate them through the lock button or voice commands.

    Future of Siri

    Mark Gurman, an editor at Bloomberg, believes that many iPhone users will jump at the chance to swap out Siri for a more advanced alternative. Apple’s AI capabilities currently lag behind those of Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI, which sometimes causes Siri to use ChatGPT for more complicated questions. Nevertheless, Apple is reportedly already working on an AI-enhanced version of Siri to better compete with its competitors.

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  • Leica iPhone App Introduces Artist Looks for Pro-Quality Photos

    Leica iPhone App Introduces Artist Looks for Pro-Quality Photos

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Leica Lux iPhone app offers personalized photo options, including classic Leica Looks and new Artist Looks inspired by famous photographers.
    2. One Artist Look, inspired by Greg Williams, features high-contrast black and white images with grain, resembling vintage Kodak Tri-X 400 film.
    3. The Greg Williams-inspired style emphasizes authenticity and warmth without over-editing, and adjusts automatically to different lighting conditions.
    4. Users can save the Greg Williams look as a favorite within the Leica Lux App, with plans for future accessibility in the Leica Photos app for select Leica cameras.
    5. The Leica Lux app is available in the App Store for a subscription fee of $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year, and is exclusive to Apple iPhones, including the iPhone 16.


    The Leica Lux iPhone app gives photographers a wide range of options to personalize their photos. Users can choose from classic Leica Looks, simulate popular Leica M lenses, or explore the new Artist Looks, which mimic the styles of famous photographers.

    Inspired by Greg Williams

    One of these new styles is inspired by the works of British photographer Greg Williams. This Artist Look features high-contrast black and white images with noticeable grain, similar to the vintage Kodak Tri-X 400 film. Leica’s marketing claims that this style highlights authenticity, warmth, and closeness, steering clear of over-editing. It also adjusts automatically to various lighting situations.

    Collaboration with a Renowned Photographer

    Leica points out that this look was created in partnership with Greg Williams himself. For photographers who plan to use this style frequently, it can be saved as a favorite within the Leica Lux App. In the future, this feature will also be accessible in the Leica Photos app, enabling use with select Leica cameras like the Leica Q3.

    The Artist Look inspired by Greg Williams is now available to all users of the Leica Lux iPhone app after the update to version 1.7. The app can be found in the App Store but requires a subscription that costs $6.99 each month or $69.99 per year—those who choose the yearly plan save about $14 annually. The Leica Lux app is exclusively for Apple iPhones, including the latest iPhone 16.

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  • Free Racing Game Giveaway on Epic Games Store for Android & iOS

    Free Racing Game Giveaway on Epic Games Store for Android & iOS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games is offering a free mobile game, Mr Racer: Premium, valued at $9.98, available until May 15.
    2. The game features 15 hypercars, five different locations, and seven racing modes, with both offline and online gameplay options.
    3. Players will receive 5 million in-game currency and a ‘Fancy Pack’ for car customization.
    4. Mr Racer: Premium is free from advertising interruptions, enhancing the gaming experience.
    5. The game can be claimed through Epic Games’ mobile apps or a desktop browser, but there are regional restrictions for installation.


    The Epic Games Store has refreshed its mobile free game giveaway program, featuring a racing game this time. Last week, they discounted Super Space Club for Android and iOS devices, including the newest iPhone 16 (currently priced at $676 – refurbished on Amazon). To add to this, the new mobile giveaway comes alongside two free games available on PC, which we have detailed in another article.

    Free Game Offer

    Starting today and running until May 15, you can add Mr Racer: Premium to your Epic Games library, a deal valued at a total of $9.98 for both mobile platforms. According to the store’s blog post, the game boasts 15 hypercars and allows you to race in five different locations with seven racing modes available. Mr Racer: Premium also offers both offline and online gameplay options, letting you compete against friends or randomly matched players.

    Added Bonuses

    In addition, this week’s offer includes 5 million in-game currency and a ‘Fancy Pack’ that provides various customization choices for your cars. Epic Games highlights that Mr Racer: Premium delivers a racing experience free from advertising interruptions. You can claim Mr Racer: Premium at no cost through Epic Games’ mobile applications or using a desktop browser via the instant checkout link, provided you are logged into your Epic Games account. Keep in mind that there are still regional restrictions regarding the installation of Epic’s mobile applications.

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  • Epic Games Store Announces Free Game Giveaway for Android, iOS May 2025

    Epic Games Store Announces Free Game Giveaway for Android, iOS May 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store has updated its free mobile game giveaway program on Android and iOS to align more closely with its PC offerings.
    2. This week, the only free game available is Super Space Club, which is usually priced at $7.98.
    3. Users must sideload the Epic Games Store application to access it on their devices, particularly on iOS.
    4. The app installation is currently only available for iOS devices within the European Union.
    5. Epic Games will refresh its mobile giveaway on May 8 at approximately 15:00 UTC.


    The Epic Games Store has updated its free mobile game giveaway program on both Android and iOS platforms, following a similar update on PC earlier today. Recently, Epic Games has been trying to bring both programs closer together. That said, some differences still exist. For instance, on mobile, they included Loop Hero along with Chuchel, while on PC, only Chuchel received a discount.

    Free Game Offers This Week

    This week, the only game available for free is Super Space Club, now listed at $0.00 on both Android and iOS, a deal that usually costs $7.98. In simpler terms, this week, the Epic Games Store has aligned its giveaways across both platforms. Sadly, it seems unlikely that picking up free mobile games from the store will be any simpler in the future.

    Installation Notes

    Currently, to access the Epic Games Store, users need to sideload the application on devices such as the iPhone 16 (currently priced at $700 – refurbished on Amazon). While the store does provide installation instructions for both systems, the app can only be installed on iOS devices within the European Union. Keep in mind that Epic Games plans to refresh its mobile giveaway at approximately 15:00 UTC on May 8. Until then, you can download Super Space Club for free through the mobile apps or via a desktop browser using this instant checkout link, as long as you are logged into your Epic Games account first.

    Important Disclaimer

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for any price changes made by retailers. The deal or discounted price mentioned here was accurate at the time of writing and may have time limits or limited stock availability.

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