Tag: iphone

  • Your iPhone could be infected with a virus

    Your iPhone could be infected with a virus

    There was an unexpected development. A virus affecting the Android side turned out to affect the iOS operating system as well. This dangerous virus can spread your various information on the internet or take over your bank account. So read the article carefully and let’s take a look at what we can do against emerging viruses.

    Dangerous virus affects everyone

    Based on the Golddigger Android trojan, the GoldPickaxe virus is now affecting iOS and all operating systems are at risk. Users need to take precautions against such viruses. Group-IB’s research has confirmed that the latest virus that has emerged takes your facial recognition data and also steals bank accounts.

    GoldPickaxe virus

    The GoldPickaxe.iOS virus can use social engineering to gain access to your bank accounts, which can end badly for you. The new virus has been found to be common in regions such as Vietnam and Thailand. It is also expected to spread started from the US to other regions in the future. Group-IB researchers continue to investigate the GoldPickaxe virus and say they have sent reports to the relevant brands.

    If you have an Android or iOS operating system, we recommend that you do not install applications/files, etc. from unknown sources. New viruses that have emerged in recent days may cause your information to be stolen. You should take steps to protect your smartphone.

  • Xiaomi Cuktech’s 30W GaN Charger for iPhones Available at Just $3

    Xiaomi Cuktech’s 30W GaN Charger for iPhones Available at Just $3

    Last week, Xiaomi’s Cuktech (formerly ZMI) launched a 20W GaN charger for iPhones. Just a few days later, the brand has released yet another power adapter again for Apple smartphones and tablets.

    Introducing the Cuktech 30W GaN Charger

    The newer model is almost identical to the older one. The only major difference is that it outputs more wattage (30W).

    The latest Cuktech charger bears model number A18C. It uses gallium nitride (GaN) like almost all power adapters from the brand.

    Thus it is comparatively smaller than regular silicon-based 30W chargers. The product weighs only 39g and measures 40 x 26 x 63.1mm in dimensions.

    Powerful and Versatile

    The adapter has a single USB Type-C port which can output up to 30W. It supports USB PD standard and is compatible with iPhone 8 to 15 series as well as all iPads.

    Cuktech claims that its charger can charge the iPhone 15 Pro Max at 27W. The adapter is rated to fill 56% of the battery in 30 minutes.

    Affordable Option

    The Cuktech 30W GaN charger is priced at ¥25 (~$3) and arrives in a single white color option. The brand is offering an 18-month quality guarantee.

    For comparison, the official Apple 30W charger retails at ¥249 (~$35) in China. It is also considerably larger in size as it uses older silicon technology.

    Global Availability

    It is worth noting that Cuktech does sell a 30W GaN charger in select global markets. This one is different from the aforementioned Chinese model as it has a foldable pin and comes in black. This adapter costs $17.49 in the US but can be availed at a cheaper price at times.

  • Luxurious Valentine’s Day iPhone by Caviar: $60,000 with Diamonds and Gold, Heart-Shaped AirTag Bundle

    Luxurious Valentine’s Day iPhone by Caviar: $60,000 with Diamonds and Gold, Heart-Shaped AirTag Bundle

    Caviar Introduces Lavish Valentine’s Day AirTag

    Caviar’s Exclusive "Garden of Eden" Collection

    Caviar, well-known for its lavish customizations, has revealed a distinct offering for the romantic season of Valentine’s Day: a heart-shaped AirTag.

    This unique product forms part of the company’s latest "Garden of Eden" collection, which presents exquisitely adorned editions of the iPhone 15 Pro. The highlight within this range is the Panther Gold 18K variant (exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro Max), priced at a remarkable $60,350, establishing it as the most extravagant choice in the lineup. It features an 18K gold exterior embellished with a panther bas-relief surrounded by 159 black diamonds.

    "Garden of Eden" Assortment

    Comprising five bespoke models of the iPhone 15 Pro, the "Garden of Eden" selection showcases luxurious materials like diamonds, gemstones, and Swarovski crystals. The intention behind this collection is to elevate the iPhone to the status of high-end jewelry, reminiscent of the famous Panthere de Cartier series.

    As an illustration, the Bird of Paradise edition boasts 24K gold plating and 139 Swarovski crystals, while the Wonderful Orchid version merges rich red calfskin with 24K gold plating, nine diamonds, and enamel accents. The Lovely Butterflies model radiates luxury with its white calfskin, 35 diamonds, and 24K gold plating.

    Pricing and Availability Details

    Beyond the flagship Panther Gold 18K offering, the other models within the collection are accessible at more affordable price ranges, with the Wonderful Orchid iPhone 15 Pro starting at $9,630. Each purchase from the "Garden of Eden" line comes with a complimentary heart-shaped AirTag, which is also available separately as an elegant accessory for personal items.

    All these models are Limited Edition, with only 14 units of the Panther Gold 18K variant and 99 units each for the remaining models.

    Caviar’s Outstanding Artistry

    Caviar, known for its extravagant artistry, has previously introduced a range of exceptional products. These include a customized Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra adorned with a mechanical watch and a 24K gold dragon, a $9,000 Viking arrow-encrusted iPhone 15 Pro from the Versus Collection, and environmentally-conscious tech seamlessly fused with luxury in Caviar’s latest Apple iPhone cases.

  • In 2023, Apple Dominates Smartphone Sales with Seven iPhone Models; Samsung Trails with Three Phones

    In 2023, Apple Dominates Smartphone Sales with Seven iPhone Models; Samsung Trails with Three Phones

    As per last month’s report, Apple toppled Samsung for the first time in 13 years as the top smartphone brand. Now, research firm Canalys is back with new data on the top 10 smartphones shipped last year across the world. Unsurprisingly, Apple once again dominated the list with the most devices. However, none of the other smartphone brands other than Apple and Samsung made it to the list. Read the entire details below.

    Apple ships the most smartphones in 2023

    As per Canalys report, the iPhone 14 Pro Max was the most-sold smartphone globally with 34 million units. The iPhone 15 Pro Max came close second with 33 million units after launching in September. The third spot was taken by the iPhone 14 with 29 million shipments. The iPhone 14 Pro and the two-year-old iPhone 13 bagged the fourth and fifth spots with 29 and 23 million units shipped respectively.

    The top five devices sold last year came from Apple

    The iPhone 15 Pro was seventh in the list selling 21 million units. The standard iPhone 15 rounded the list of top 10 with 17 million units. The iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus are notable mentions missing from the list.

    Only three phones from Samsung made it to the top 10

    Only three phones from Samsung were among the top 10 selling smartphones last year. Notably, they belonged to the South Korean brand’s Galaxy A-series. These include the Galaxy A14 4G at sixth place with 21 million sales. The other two were the Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A14 5G at the eighth and ninth spots respectively.

    No other brand including OnePlus, Xiaomi, Vivo etc made it to the list of most phones sold last year.


  • Apple Confirms Sideloading Feature Restricted to iPhone, iPad Misses Out

    Apple Confirms Sideloading Feature Restricted to iPhone, iPad Misses Out

    iOS 17.4 Beta Brings Sideloading to EU iPhones, Excluding iPads

    Apple has rolled out the iOS 17.4 beta, which brings a significant change in compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). This update introduces the option of sideloading for EU users, enabling them to download and install applications from sources other than the official App Store. However, it is important to note that this feature is currently limited to iPhones only, and iPad users are excluded from this new flexibility.

    Sideloading: Exploring the New Possibilities

    Sideloading is a process that allows users to bypass the official App Store and directly download and install applications from alternative sources. With the iOS 17.4 beta, EU iPhone users gain the ability to explore a wider range of apps and discover new possibilities outside the confines of the App Store.

    The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA)

    The European Union’s Digital Markets Act is legislation aimed at promoting fair competition and consumer choice within the digital market. As part of its compliance with this act, Apple has introduced the option of sideloading in its latest iOS 17.4 beta release. This move is in line with the EU’s objective of fostering a more open and competitive environment for app distribution.

    iPad Users Left Out

    While EU iPhone users can now enjoy the benefits of sideloading, iPad users are currently excluded from this new feature. Apple has not provided any specific reasons for this limitation. It is unclear whether sideloading will be extended to iPads in future updates or if this exclusion will remain permanent.

    Pricing and Specifications

    The iOS 17.4 beta update is available for free to all eligible EU iPhone users. The sideloading feature, however, is exclusively accessible to iPhone users and does not extend to iPads.

    In conclusion, Apple’s iOS 17.4 beta release brings the option of sideloading to EU iPhone users, aligning with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. While this introduces new possibilities for iPhone users, iPad users are currently not included in this feature. It remains to be seen whether sideloading will be extended to iPads in future updates.

  • Leaked Information Reveals Details About the Build and Camera of Apple iPhone 16 Pro

    Leaked Information Reveals Details About the Build and Camera of Apple iPhone 16 Pro

    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Build & Camera Specs

    A new report has provided some insights into the upcoming Apple iPhone 16 Pro series. According to known tipster Digital Chat Station, the iPhone 16 Pro models will come with a 1/1.14-inch main camera and a periscope telephoto lens. This suggests that the new iPhones will offer enhanced zoom capabilities and improved light intake on the primary sensor. These camera specifications align with our previous report.

    Changes in Build and Design

    Digital Chat Station also revealed some details about the build of the iPhone 16 Pro series. The rear panel of both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature a glass panel built using a G+P solution. This means that the back will be a combination of glass and plastic. Interestingly, the tipster also mentioned that Huawei, a Chinese brand, will adopt a similar technique for their upcoming smartphones.

    Design Changes and Features

    Recent renders of the iPhone 16 Pro series have showcased a new dedicated Capture button. Additionally, the upcoming iPhones are expected to have smaller Dynamic Island on the front, upgraded cameras, and slightly taller displays. These design changes and features have been reported by various sources. However, further details are currently unavailable.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the Apple iPhone 16 Pro series. As the release date approaches, more information is likely to emerge regarding the specifications, pricing, and availability of these highly anticipated smartphones.

  • Apple to Provide Lunar New Year Discount on iPhones in China

    Apple to Provide Lunar New Year Discount on iPhones in China

    Apple Introduces Lunar New Year Deals in China

    Apple, recognized for its premium and typically pricey offerings, is delighting Chinese consumers with unusual discounts during the Lunar New Year festivities.
    This special deal encompasses price reductions on all major Apple gadgets such as the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, AirPods, and more. Below are the particulars of this temporary promotional offer:

    Reduced Prices on iPhones and MacBooks

    • Consumers in China can benefit from substantial price cuts on different models of iPhones. The iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone 13 all qualify for discounts of up to 500 RMB (roughly $70).
    • Moreover, the 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air featuring the M2 chip model and the 13-inch MacBook Air with the M1 chip model are on offer with savings up to 800 RMB.

    Discounts on iPads, Apple Watch, and AirPods

    • Apple has also catered to customers keen on acquiring iPads. The iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad (10th generation), and iPad mini can all be bought with savings reaching up to 400 RMB.
    • Those in the market for an Apple Watch will find the Apple Watch SE at a discounted rate of 200 RMB.
    • However, the discount on AirPods is relatively modest, with a price reduction of only 100 RMB.

    Swift Action Needed to Seize the Discounts

    These Lunar New Year discounts by Apple will be accessible from January 18 to 21. To avail yourself of an economical iPhone or any other Apple product on discount, prompt action is imperative.

    Apple’s move to extend these discounts, while shying away from the term "discount," is prompted by the competitive landscape of the smartphone industry in China.
    To combat the intense rivalry posed by local manufacturers, Apple is striving to boost sales during occasions like Lunar New Year. This underscores the importance of a cutthroat market environment even for a tech giant of Apple’s stature.

    To explore the reduced-price Apple products, simply navigate to the company’s Chinese site.

    Bear in mind, this offer is time-bound, so seize the chance to save on your beloved Apple gadgets without delay.

  • Payouts for “Batterygate” Lawsuit Claim Begin Reaching iPhone Users

    Payouts for “Batterygate” Lawsuit Claim Begin Reaching iPhone Users

    Apple Begins Issuing Payments to iPhone Owners in Batterygate Settlement

    Apple has started making payments to iPhone owners who were part of a class-action lawsuit known as "batterygate." The lawsuit, filed in December 2017, alleged that Apple secretly slowed down older iPhones with aging batteries without informing users. The settlement, reached in 2020 for up to $500 million, aimed to compensate affected iPhone owners.

    Lack of Transparency and Throttling Feature

    Apple's decision to throttle performance on certain iPhones without clear disclosure sparked the controversy. The company introduced the throttling feature in iOS 10.2.1 to prevent unexpected shutdowns but failed to mention it in the update notes. This lack of transparency led to frustration among iPhone users, prompting the class-action lawsuit.

    Apology and Settlement

    Acknowledging the lack of transparency, Apple apologized and temporarily offered discounted battery replacements. However, the company denied intentionally misleading users and settled the lawsuit to avoid prolonged and costly litigation.

    Eligibility and Payouts

    The settlement applies to U.S. residents who owned an affected iPhone model before December 21, 2017. The eligible models include iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, or SE running iOS 10.2.1 or later, as well as iPhone 7 or 7 Plus running iOS 11.2 or later. The deadline to file a claim was in October 2020.

    MacRumors readers who have received their payments this week confirmed that the payouts amount to approximately $92 per claim. This aligns with the estimated payment mentioned on the settlement website, which initially projected distributions to occur in January.

    Improved Transparency and Control

    While Apple still utilizes a performance management system on iPhones 6 and later, the company has made efforts to provide users with more transparency and control over the feature. The "battery health" feature now informs users about their battery's lifespan and allows them to disable throttling if desired. However, disabling throttling comes with the risk of unexpected shutdowns.

    Overall, Apple's payment distribution in the batterygate settlement marks an important milestone in resolving the controversy surrounding the company's handling of older iPhones with aging batteries. Moving forward, Apple continues to prioritize transparency and user control regarding performance management on its devices.

  • iPhone 15 Pro Max Charger Malfunctions, Causing Phone Damage and User Injury

    iPhone 15 Pro Max Charger Malfunctions, Causing Phone Damage and User Injury

    iPhone 15 Pro Max Meltdown Incident Caused by Unauthorized Accessories

    Apple has consistently cautioned users about the risks associated with using unauthorized accessories. The company underscores the dangers of overheating and fire hazards that may result from utilizing substandard products. Despite these warnings, many individuals often dismiss them, assuming that Apple’s main objective is to drive sales and profits. However, a recent case shared by a Reddit user serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by cheap accessories.

    The Reddit user, identified as NoisilyMarvellous, detailed their encounter with a low-cost cable that led to significant harm. Upon connecting their newly acquired iPhone 15 Pro Max to the charger, they observed the cable beginning to melt. This not only caused burns to their hand but also inflicted damage on the phone itself. Subsequent examination revealed that the charging cable in use was not an authentic Apple product.

    In their Reddit account, NoisilyMarvellous conveyed astonishment and annoyance, stating, "While I was aware that the iPhone 15 Pro Max generates heat, after a month of usage, mine became so hot during an overnight charge that it actually caused a burn on my finger. Upon disconnecting the charger, I noticed it had melted part of the plastic, left scorch marks on the device, and wedged the metal segment of the USB-C port into the phone."

    This occurrence underscores the significance of opting for accessories that adhere to Apple’s quality guidelines. While utilizing accessories from non-Apple brands may not necessarily harm your phone, it is imperative to select items from authorized partners that have undergone stringent quality assessments. Although the attraction of budget-friendly alternatives from unfamiliar brands may be appealing, the potential repercussions, as exemplified by NoisilyMarvellous and their phone priced over $1000, can be severe.

    Therefore, when contemplating the purchase of an accessory for your Apple device, remember to prioritize safety and quality over price. Investing in licensed and dependable products will not only safeguard your device but also ensure your personal well-being. Apple’s cautions should not be disregarded, as they are designed to shield users from potential harm.

  • Rumors suggest iPhone SE 4 to feature iPhone 14-like design, along with Face ID and USB-C port.

    Rumors suggest iPhone SE 4 to feature iPhone 14-like design, along with Face ID and USB-C port.

    New iPhone SE 4 Rumored to Have Similar Design to iPhone 14 with Face ID and USB-C Port

    According to a recent rumor from MacRumors, the upcoming iPhone SE 4, expected to be released in 2025, may have a design similar to that of the iPhone 14. The report suggests that Apple is developing a new iPhone SE with a modified version of the iPhone 14 chassis. This means that the iPhone SE 4 could feature a 6.1-inch display and a notch for the TrueDepth camera system, which is used for Face ID.

    One of the main differences between the iPhone SE 4 and the iPhone 14 is expected to be the rear camera system. While the iPhone 14 boasts two rear lenses, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to have a single rear lens. However, the iPhone SE 4 is said to sport a 48-megapixel main camera lens, which is the same as the primary camera lens found on the base iPhone 15 model. Additionally, it is rumored to include the Action Button from the iPhone 15 Pro, a customizable button that can be programmed to perform various tasks.

    The iPhone SE 4 is expected to weigh 165 grams, which is 6 grams less than the iPhone 14. For comparison, here are the dimensions and weights of the iPhone 14 and the current iPhone SE 3:

    • iPhone 14: 146.7 mm x 71.5 mm x 7.80 mm, 172 grams
    • iPhone SE 3: 138.4 mm x 67.3 mm x 7.3 mm, 144 grams

    If these rumors turn out to be true, the iPhone SE 4 would be a significant upgrade over the current iPhone SE model, which features a smaller 4.7-inch display with a Touch ID sensor. The introduction of a 6.1-inch display and Face ID would bring the iPhone SE 4 more in line with the rest of the iPhone lineup. Additionally, the inclusion of a USB-C port would mark the first time an iPhone SE model incorporates this feature.

    As with any rumors, it’s important to take this information with a grain of salt until Apple officially announces the iPhone SE 4. Until then, Apple enthusiasts can look forward to the potential release of a new iPhone SE model with an updated design and improved features.