This version introduces significant changes for iPhone users, particularly those in the European Union, and brings a host of enhancements that might soon benefit users worldwide.

EU users can now download apps directly from the web onto their iPhones from third-party websites. This feature, called “Web Distribution,” allows users to bypass the App Store when downloading apps.

Alongside this change, iOS 17.5 introduces crucial bug fixes and security upgrades because, you know, hackers are hacking, so these tests keep them on their toes.

Subtle Upgrades

Other notable updates include improvements in mobile device management and anticipated Battery Health functionality for the latest iPad models. Though these changes aren’t as flashy, they enhance overall device efficiency and longevity.

The Bigger Picture

iOS 17.5 might not look very different on the surface, but it actually takes a big step forward in how apps are distributed and managed on Apple devices.

It shows that Apple can adapt and follow rules while also setting the stage for a possible big change in how apps are distributed worldwide.

It’s clear that iOS 17.5 is more than just another update; it’s setting the stage for a future where developers have more control and users enjoy enhanced security and device performance.

The rest of the update

The iOS 17.5 update brings a range of new improvements to enhance the iPhone experience. Notifications have been refined for better control, and Apple Music playlists now allow for collaborative management.

Focus modes offer more customization options, and dynamic wallpapers adjust throughout the day. iMessage gets an upgrade with animated stickers and new sticker features. Privacy is bolstered with enhanced app tracking transparency and detailed permissions.

Battery management tools help optimize charging and prolong battery life. Additionally, the Home app sees improvements in home automation and device management, integrating better with third-party smart home devices.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• iOS 18 to bring improved task management to iPhone
• Safari to get new AI features with iOS 18 and macOS 15
• iOS 18 rumored to overhaul four apps in addition to an overall redesign
• iOS 18 tipped to bring new features to Apple’s Notes app

The iPad Air now comes in two sizes, 11 and 13 inches, powered by the M2 chip. The base model also comes with double the storage at 128GB.

Apple also launched iPad Pro models with OLED panels and equipped them with the M4 chip, the first time it has used the new M-chip in an iPad before a MacBook.

Let’s dive into what else is new on the iPad Air.

Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2)

$599.00

The iPad Air now comes with the M2 chip, and the front camera is moved to the long edge for better video calls when in landscape mode. It also has twice the storage on the base model, now at 128GB.

Check Availability See at Amazon

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The new 13-inch iPad Air with an M2 chip is available at $799

Apple’s iPad Air lineup now consists of two variants: an 11-inch and a 13-inch model. iPad Air fans finally have a second-size option, like the iPad Pro and the base-model iPad. 

Both 2024 iPad Air variants come equipped with the M2 chip and are available in four color options: blue, purple, starlight, and space gray.

Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M2)

$799.00

The iPad Air now has a larger 13-inch variant for those who want a larger tablet screen without the premium price of the Pro models.

What We Like:

• Powerful M2 processor
• Selfie camera moved to long edge for better video calls
• Double the base storage at 128GB

What We Didn't Like:

• Touch ID still being used

Best Buy Amazon

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The price starts at $599 for the 11-inch model, and you have to pay $799 for the new 13-inch model—they’re available to order on Apple’s website.

The design remains the same, and the new iPad Airs have the same front-facing 12MP camera and a 12MP camera on the back. 

A minor but impactful change is that the front-facing camera is now on the side of the screen instead of the top. That’s perfect for video conferencing using the Magic Keyboard or other stand.

Another significant change is that iPad Air’s base model now has 128GB of storage, double that of the previous generation. However, it still uses the Touch ID on the power button. 

In addition, both new iPad Airs can use Apple’s existing Magic Keyboard accessories and support for the Apple Pencil Hover feature, which was previously exclusive to the iPad Pro.

So, if you want a bigger Apple tablet, you can now do it without paying the hefty premium dedicated to the “Pro” models.

Are you picking up the new iPad Air? Prefer the 11-inch or 13-inch size? Drop us a line in the comments below, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Watch Ultra 3 said to be on track for September launch
• iOS 18 to bring improved task management to iPhone
• Safari to get new AI features with iOS 18 and macOS 15
• New PlayStation 5 Pro leak shows powerful specs

Apple iPad Pro (2024 Model)

11-inch: - $999 13-inch: $1,299

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Apple just welcomed a new iPad Pro to its growing family. The new iPad, equipped with the revolutionary M4 chip and the new Apple Pencil Pro, is set to change how we look at tablets, or not. It’s the same line every year. Will it be any different this year?

The new iPad Pro continues Apple’s tradition of rolling out devices that suspiciously resemble their predecessors in sleekness and thinness. The design ethos appears to be, “If it’s not broken, just make it thinner and call it new.” 

Available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, these tablets feature an Ultra Retina XDR display. With its OLED technology, the iPad Pro delivers vivid colors, deep blacks, and incredible contrast, offering an unparalleled visual experience.

Under the hood, the M4 chip claims to transform the iPad Pro into a powerhouse. This latest iteration of Apple’s processor pledges improved performance, and better battery life—a combination Apple suggests makes the iPad Pro an indispensable tool for professionals and creatives.

Whether you’re editing high-res photos, running complex simulations, or multitasking between apps, logging onto Forbes.com, the M4 chip ensures seamless operation.

The Apple Pencil Pro got a notable update worth writing home about. The pen features a little sensor that allows intuitive control of line weight, color selection, and tool switching, keeping you in the creative flow.

The iPad Pro’s enhanced camera system promises stunning detail in low light conditions, making it a versatile tool for both professional projects and personal memories. It supports Thunderbolt 3 and USB 4 for high-speed data transfer and connectivity to external displays and accessories.

On paper, this iPad Pro looks pretty impressive. But so did all the others I bought that now live in some desk draw I completely forgot about.

Whether you’re an Apple user or considering becoming one, the new iPad Pro is a game-changer that will redefine your expectations for what a tablet can do.

The new iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, with options for Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular models.

The 11-inch model starts at $999, and the 13-inch model starts at $1,299. Apple says the iPad Pro is available for order now and will be available in-store starting May 15.

Apple iPad Pro (2024 Model)

The 2024 iPad Pro features improved performance with its M4 chip and an advanced Ultra Retina XDR display, offering robust processing capabilities and a striking visual experience in a sleek, portable design.

What We Like:

• Enhanced Performance: M4 chip boosts speed for demanding apps.
• Superior Display: Ultra Retina XDR offers vivid colors and contrasts.
• Portability: Sleek, lightweight design for easy mobility.
• Battery Efficiency: Longer life for extended productivity.

11-inch: - $999 13-inch: $1,299

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Experience 5K magic: Apple Studio Display is $300 off
• Apple Watch Ultra 3 said to be on track for September launch
• Get a 4-pack of Apple AirTags at their lowest price ever, now $79.99
• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures

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It has been a while since Apple introduced new iPads. Now, we’re getting a rare event that promises to bring some of the most significant improvements to the range in years.

The virtual event might be significantly shorter than prior showings, with an estimated 35-minute runtime. There will also be an in-person element in London after the virtual launch.  

With impressive upgrades on the cards, you might want to watch along as the latest iPads get unveiled.

So, here’s how to watch the “Let Loose” iPad event from home.

When and where to watch the Apple “Let Loose” event

Apple’s “Let Loose” event will take place in less than 24 hours on May 7 at 7 am PT/10 am ET.

The “Let Loose” event will be virtual, so there’s no need to pack your bags and attend in person at Cupertino, as Apple will bring all the iPad action live directly to your screen. 

However, the event timing will be different if you live on the other side of the globe or traveling. 

So, here are the timings to watch the “Let Loose” iPad event live from different time zones. 

• New York (EDT) – May 7, 10:00 am 
• London (BST) – May 7, 3:00 pm
• San Francisco (PDT) – 7 May, 7:00 am
• New Delhi (IST) – May 7, 7:30 pm
• Beijing (UTC) – May 7, 10:00 pm
• Tokyo (JST) – May 7, 11:00 pm
• Sydney (AEST) – May 8, 12:00 midnight

How to watch the “Let Loose” iPad event

If you are interested in watching the event, and of course you are, Apple is finally ready to introduce new iPads for the first time since 2022; do yourself a favor and stay here at KnowTechie.

Just relax. You don’t need to burden yourself by meticulously typing an address into the URL bar, as we have embedded the live stream below. 

Stay here and watch as the “Let Loose” event unfolds.

However, taking care of a few things before starting would be best. First and foremost, you need a reliable and compatible device to stream the event or even the iPad you’re considering replacing.

Here’s where you can watch it:

These are the only options for watching. However, that’s all you need if YouTube works great on your device. If you are unsatisfied with YouTube’s frequent advertisements, subscribe to YouTube Premium for a better ad-free experience.

What to expect at the Apple “Let Loose” event

With only a few hours left, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports the Cupertino firm will introduce new iPad Pro and iPad Air models in a short 35-minute video presentation.

However, that’s not all. The new iPad Pro models will receive considerable upgrades, and a larger iPad Air 6 will be introduced at the event alongside new iPad accessories. 

A new era of iPad Pros (11-inch and 12.9-inch)

The next-generation iPad Pro models will be the stars of the event. As far as we know, the new models will have multiple upgrades but no design changes. 

The most significant change will be the new OLED panels for “Pro” iPad models. Apple is known for its uncompromising display standards and is reportedly using the best OLED panels on the market. 

The OLED panels will finally bring new features to the “Pro” iPad models, lacking since 2021. These include better brightness and a more balanced contrast level, making blacks look deeper and darker. 

In addition, the 2024 iPad Pro models, both 11-inch and 12.9-inch, are getting thinner, courtesy of smaller components required for the OLED panels. The 12.9-inch model shrinks by 20%, and the 11-inch model shrinks by 15%. 

A significant reduction in the iPad Pros thickness also means less battery space, which is concerning. However, we expect the new OLED panels to compensate for that shortcoming with better optimization. 

Under the hood, a lot more is changing. We expect Apple to use its own M3 silicon on these iPads. However, a recent report mentions the company may skip the M3 and go for the M4 silicon. 

Although it’s confusing, there’s no need to fret. Regardless of Apple’s decision, the iPad Pro will get a new and improved chip. 

Apple is continuing the base model iPad tradition and is expected to shift the FaceTime camera on the 2024 iPad Pro models to the landscape position. 

This seemingly minor change has huge implications for the usability of video conferencing and is a welcome one.

We expect to see a price bump due to all these modifications. So, expect the price to go up at least $100, possibly more. 

iPad Air 6 with a new larger 12.9-inch model 

We expect the iPad Air 6 models to accompany the iPad Pro models. And yes, we said “models,” as for the first time, Apple is ready to introduce a 12.9-inch iPad Air to the lineup. 

That change means iPad Air fans will finally have two sizes to choose from, just like the iPad Pro and standard iPads.

Early rumors indicated that the 12.9-inch iPad Air would feature the same Mini-LED panels as the current iPad Pros. We now expect both iPad Air 6 models to use the same display tech as the previous generation. 

Beyond the new form factor, the models are expected to follow the same pattern as the iPad Pro, with the front-facing camera position on the long edge, and are likely to sport Apple M2 silicon. 

New Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil 3  

The current Magic Keyboard is exceptional. However, it prioritizes form over function. The upcoming Magic Keyboard promises to be different. 

First, it is expected to be iPad Pro exclusive; we would love to be wrong in this assumption. The biggest change with the new Magic Keyboard will be its aluminum base, which will improve the typing experience and make it feel like typing on an actual laptop. 

Lastly, we expect Apple to unveil the third-generation Apple Pencil with a new feature set that includes haptic feedback.

The hallmark features like magnetically swappable tips will be there, alongside new features like Find My integration and a squeeze gesture for additional functionality. 

New iPads are nearly here

It’s rare for Apple to organize an event in May. However, it has been a long time since Apple introduced notable upgrades to the iPad lineup.

We are incredibly excited about the OLED panels on the iPad Pro models, how they will improve the iPad Pro experience, and the new 12.9-inch iPad Air 6.

We’re sad that there are no leaks about the iPad mini. It’s long overdue for an overhaul unless sales figures show it’s not worth the effort.

Is OLED the decider in upgrading your iPad? Want the rumored tactile feedback of the Apple Pencil 3? Drop us a line in the comments below, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Watch Ultra 3 said to be on track for September launch
• iOS 18 to bring improved task management to iPhone
• Safari to get new AI features with iOS 18 and macOS 15
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast

However, a fresh report suggests the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is on track for a September release, but it will be more like a minor upgrade. 

Apparently, renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo told MacRumors that the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3 would only get minor upgrades over its predecessor, the Apple Watch Ultra 2. 

It’s disappointing that the analyst didn’t share any more details, but it follows a trend that recently made a microLED Apple Watch Ultra unlikely. 

Underwhelming upgrades for the Apple Watch Ultra 3

While last year’s Apple Watch Ultra 2 was a minor upgrade from the original Ultra Apple Watch, it was still considered the best Apple Watch with a phenomenal display.

But doing the same for another year, Apple is pushing its luck a bit. 

Of course, Apple could surprise us with new watchOS features, as we are unsure what the company has planned for the upcoming watchOS 11. 

In addition, Apple could launch the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with the new S10 chip, which will be the rebranded S9 chip with minor tweaks. 

Although it’s disappointing news, it’s not a complete disaster, especially considering that last year, Kuo revealed that the next Apple Watch Ultra may not land in 2024. 

At least we are getting a new Apple Watch Ultra. 

However, the biggest hurdle for the Cupertino firm would be if one of its competitors releases an “Ultra” smartwatch. 

Samsung is likely the first in line, as the possibility of a Galaxy Watch Ultra has been hinted at for the next Galaxy Unpacked event, set for June 10. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• iOS 18 to bring improved task management to iPhone
• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures
• Apple using the best OLED panels for new iPad Pro, says report
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast

Even though the company has yet to confirm anything, we know a fair bit of details about the iOS 18 update and what modifications it may bring to Apple’s renowned mobile platform, and the new leak suggests a giant leap for the Calendar app. 

iOS 18 was already rumored to bring AI-powered features to Apple’s mobile platform, Home Screen changes are on the way, and four apps (Notes, Mail, Photos, and Fitness) are getting revamped.

According to the latest report by AppleInsider, the Calendar app is also getting modifications courtesy of the iOS 18 update. 

A promising update for the Calendar app with iOS 18

According to the report, Apple is ready to bring task support to the Calendar app by closely integrating it with the existing Reminders app. There will be no need to launch the Reminders app separately. 

As usual, the publication cites people familiar with the pre-release version of iOS 18 for this info and claims the same change is coming with macOS 15.

Tapping or right-clicking an area within the Day, Week, or Month views in pre-release versions of the new Calendar app will reveal an option that prompts the user to either set a reminder or schedule an event,” the report explains. “Both can be scheduled from the same UI element, allowing for greater convenience.

The report also confirms that users will have to add a title and note or tag to set a reminder through the Calendar app.

However, we still need to consider this is just a leaked report and not an official confirmation from Apple. So, in the end, the plan could change. 

Either way, the WWDC is just over a month away, and we don’t have to wait long for the official preview. Unfortunately, if the company sticks to its usual schedule, the public release will not come until September, alongside the iPhone 16 series. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures
• Apple using the best OLED panels for new iPad Pro, says report
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard

The unreleased iOS update is rumored to overhaul multiple apps, including Mail, Notes, Photos, and Fitness, as well as the iPhone Home Screen. However, it appears Apple’s home browser Safari will get a few modifications courtesy of the iOS 18 update. 

The latest report by AppleInsider claims that the Safari browser on iOS 18 and MacOS 15 will get major updates. 

Safari to get AI-powered search and more with iOS 18

The report discusses the first upgrade: Safari’s AI-powered search, which will significantly benefit users with features like text summarization on the Arc browser.

Ajax, the on-device large language model (LLM), will apparently help scan the text here and then identify and summarize the topics.

However, the biggest update coming to Safari 18 is the web eraser feature, and as the name suggests, it enables users to remove certain things from the website they are visiting. 

It can be helpful, especially if the report is accurate. The feature is reportedly capable of eliminating ad banners, images, text, and other stuff. 

Although the exciting part is that Safari will remember the changes even after closing the tab.

Something special for Safari on macOS 15

On the other hand, Safari 18 on the macOS 15 will reportedly include an enhanced address bar, similar to the one on the iPadOS.

In addition, a few design tweaks will be added to improve Safari’s UI and make it usable across different Apple platforms. 

Interestingly, the report also discusses an upgraded version of the Visual Look Up feature that could debut in 2025. 

Visual Look Up is a helpful feature currently limited to images of pets, plants, and landmarks. However, the report indicates the upgraded version will allow users to identify images across different applications. 

While the report states that Apple is testing these features internally, there’s a pretty good chance that some may not make it to the stable build. 

However, we can’t say that for sure, and we will get a definite answer on June 10 at the WWDC 2024 when Apple previews iOS 18 and macOS 15. 

Excited about Apple’s AI features? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures
• Apple using the best OLED panels for new iPad Pro, says report
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard

iOS 18 is set to be announced and previewed during WWDC 2024, and rumors say it will be one of the landmark iOS updates in recent years, with numerous changes and making Apple’s beginning with AI. 

In the recent edition of Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter, the renowned journalist has said the same but with additional details. 

According to the journalist, the next version of iOS will indeed be a big one, but it won’t be on the same level as iOS 7.

The journalist further claims that Apple plans to overhaul several of its popular applications, including the Mail, Photos, Fitness, and Notes apps. 

New changes are coming to the iPhone Home Screen, too

A recent leak already hinted at Apple’s famed Notes app’s new Voice Notes and Math Notes features. 

However, Gurman claims that in addition to the Notes app, the Mail, Photos, and Fitness apps are set to get cool new features, which seems more promising. 

Gurman doesn’t stop here. He further states that big new changes are coming to the iPhone Home Screen. 

Users will be able to pin app icons anywhere they’d like, even outside of the normal grid,” he writes. Gurman further notes iOS 18 “will also include design tweaks that make it more modular (easier to update and customize).

Let’s not forget the rumored Apple AI inclusion with the iOS 18 update. Previous rumors suggested Apple is planning to boost at least a few apps with AI; the obvious expected candidate is Siri. 

Besides Siri, AI integration was set for the Messages app, Xcode, Apple Music, Pages, and Keynote app. And now, add the Mail, Photos, Notes, and Fitness apps to the mix. 

Even though Gurman states the overhaul won’t be as significant as iOS 7, it still sounds like an iOS update worth waiting for. 

However, we have to wait a bit for the preview. It’s not coming until June 10, and the public release is way later in September, alongside the new iPhone 16 series, unless Apple deviates from its tradition. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures
• Apple using the best OLED panels for new iPad Pro, says report
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard

At the event, the Cupertino firm is expected to announce the new iPad Pro models, which will sport state-of-the-art OLED panels and Apple’s M3 silicon (although a recent report claims it will be M4), and the new iPad Air 6, including a larger 12.9-inch variant. 

However, the new iPads won’t be the event’s only attraction. Apple is also announcing the third-generation Apple Pencil, the Apple Pencil 3, with new features.

According to the latest edition of the Power On newsletter by Mark Gurman, Apple Pencil 3 could get haptic feedback. However, the report doesn’t mention how it would be used. 

The pencil could deliver different feedback depending on the mode, like a digital paintbrush, pen, crayon, etc. But this is all speculation. 

On the other hand, Apple Pencil 3 could get a new squeeze detection mechanism based on the references found in the iPadOS 17.5 beta.

In addition, Apple is rumored to bring Find My support to the upcoming Apple Pencil, making it easier to locate. 

Of course, if all these speculations become real, Apple Pencil 3 will stand out among its third-party alternatives. 

It could inspire rivals like Samsung to add more features to its S Pen Pro. The S Pen Pro already supports the SmartThings app, but neither haptic feedback nor pressure gestures. 

There’s also the case with Magic Keyboard

Let’s not forget the last rumored item for the event: a new Magic Keyboard for the next-gen iPad models. 

The Magic Keyboard is Apple’s premium tablet accessory; according to rumors, it may get a facelift. But no other details are available outside of using an aluminum base and adding a larger trackpad. 

The new iPad Pro, iPad Air 6, Apple Pencil 3, and the new Magic Keyboard will be unveiled next week on May 7, followed by the WWDC 2024 on June 10, where Apple will likely announce the next iPadOS update. 

Excited about new iPads? Hit us up in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple using the best OLED panels for new iPad Pro, says report
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard
• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands

With only a week left for the event, a new report has shed light on the OLED panels Apple has used on the next-gen iPad Pro models. 

Dedicated display analyst Ross Young of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DCSS) is at work again and has revealed that Apple is equipping the new iPad Pro models with OLED panels.

The Cupertino firm has selected the “best OLED tablet panels on the market” for its new tablets. In a note to the investors, Young claims,

The OLED iPad panels are expected to be by far the best OLED tablet panels on the market with LTPO, 120Hz refresh, a tandem stack and glass thinning resulting in ultra-thin and light displays with high brightness, extended battery life and long lifetime.

Only the best OLED panels for iPad Pros

The road for the 2024 iPad Pro models is already paved. The new Apple flagship tablets are not getting any significant makeover; only the FaceTime camera is rumored to change spot—from vertical to horizontal. 

The Pro Apple tablets are also rumored to receive the new Apple silicon, which we suspected to be the M3 chip, but recently, Mark Gurman claimed in a report that Apple is skipping M3 and heading to M4 for the new iPad Pros. 

It’s a convoluted claim, to say the least, but today’s Ross Young’s report is all about the OLED panels.

The analyst elaborates further after stating that Apple is using the best OLED panels in the market.

These OLED panels use organic material to emit light, and they don’t require a backlight like LCDs. 

Each pixel is illuminated individually, resulting in better contrast and blacks due to their ability to reduce brightness and blackout pixels in the darker areas. 

However, the downside is that the panels are prone to OLED burn-in. When Apple launched the iPhone X back in 2027, the company claimed to have addressed the issue, but we will have to wait and see what happens with the iPad OLED panels. 

Apple currently uses regular LED panels for the 11-inch iPad Pro and Mini-LED panel for the 12.9-inch variant. 

Mini-LEDs use backlight to balance the contrast and produce perfect blacks like the OLED panels, but not as efficiently. 

Young also states that the OLED panels Apple is employing are thinner due to the absence of backlighting, and because of this new display tech, the new iPad Pro models will be thinner. 

Either way, the wait is only a week. We will be able to fill in the blanks after the May 7 virtual event, which will apparently be accompanied by an in-person event in London.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard
• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands
• Apple’s M4 chip-powered Macs could be coming soon

OpenAI is a trendsetter in AI, the kind of cool new friend everyone wants at their party because they make everything better—a bit like the person who always has a new story or game up their sleeve.

Apple feels that they’re just part of the crowd without this edge. And I imagine Tim Cook wouldn’t want this to be his lasting legacy.

Apple is reportedly spending a lot of money to complete this deal, which makes you wonder if they remember how to innovate independently.

It’s like they’re trying to buy a shortcut to success because they’ve lost confidence in coming up with the next big idea themselves.

This isn’t just about Apple and OpenAI. Google and Microsoft are also in the mix and aren’t just watching from the sidelines. They’re active players in the AI game, making this situation feel like a high-stakes poker match where Apple’s sweating and the others are calling bluff after bluff.

Sure, landing a deal with OpenAI could be great for Apple. It could boost their products and make them seem super innovative again.

But let’s get real—is it really do or die? Tech history is full of missed chances and brilliant recoveries. Companies always miss out on trends and still find other ways to innovate and succeed.

Apple is tough. They’ve got deep pockets and plenty of smart people. Even without this deal, they won’t just disappear.

Deals like this are flashy and get everyone talking, but they aren’t the only path forward. No matter what happens with OpenAI, Apple will keep on ticking, finding new ways to surprise us.

As we watch this whole saga unfold, remember that it’s not always the deals you make that matter but how you play the game. And in the rapid-fire world of technology, the game changes fast.

Today’s panic could be tomorrow’s old news.

Who knows what the next big thing will be? Stay tuned, but don’t believe the hype that it’s all over if Apple doesn’t get this one deal. They’re down, sure, but definitely not out.

What’s your take on this? Do you want something like ChatGPT to replace Siri? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard
• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands
• Apple’s “Let Loose” event to have in-person element in London
• iOS 18 tipped to bring new features to Apple’s Notes app

To be precise, X/Twitter user Sonny Dickson posted an image of four iPhones, a dead giveaway based on the camera island design.

Interestingly, the camera sensor size on all four iPhone 16s in the image sports is the same, which will not be the case with the originals, leading us to believe there will be minor differences between these dummies and the final release. 

iPhone 16 Pro Max set to become the biggest “Pro Max” ever

The redesigned camera module on the vanilla iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will be the first thing you will notice, which doesn’t look exactly the same as the iPhone X, but similarities are there. 

Next, you will see the iPhone 16 Pro Max with the alleged 6.9-inch display, making it the biggest “Pro Max” ever.

Last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max had a 6.7-inch display, so a 0.2-inch increase isn’t significant but makes the “Pro Max” model completely unworthy of small hands. 

Besides these, the dummy units don’t reveal any new information. 

We would have loved to see the button placement, as all four iPhone 16 models are rumored to get the Action button, which was previously exclusive to the Pro models. 

On the other hand, the iPhone is also tipped to get a brand-new Capture button. However, we assume it will be exclusive to the “Pro” models. 

If Apple follows its usual schedule, the iPhone 16 is expected to land in September alongside iOS 18. The latter is rumored to bring new AI features and multiple advancements to the UI, and we will likely get a preview of it at WWDC 2024. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• 2024 iPad Pro may get the M4 chip for AI features, skipping M3
• Apple’s “Let Loose” event to have in-person element in London
• 12.9-inch iPad Air 6 may not get a Mini-LED screen this year
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has shared an interesting titbit about the iPad Pro models in the latest edition of his Power On newsletter. 

According to the famed journalist, the unreleased iPad Pro models may actually be powered by Apple’s M4 silicon, skipping M3 altogether.

New iPad Pro leak brings more questions than answers

Now, this is a surprising twist. Information about the 2024 iPad Pro models has been leaking for a while, informing us about the OLED display, reduced thickness, and repositioned FaceTime camera, but none about using the M4 chip instead of the M3. 

According to Gurman, the M4 chip will result in the advent of AI features in the new iPad Pro range, courtesy of the upgraded Neural Engine.  

However, the M4 chip is scheduled to arrive to the Macs later in the year, and debuting them with the iPad Pro range is a tough pill to swallow. 

Gurman is the uncrowned authority when it comes to Apple-related leaks. However, there’s a lingering doubt regarding Gurman’s report now, especially because M3 is barely six months old. 

In addition, Apple Silicons usually get prominent releases, and in the same newsletter, Gurman states that the “Let Loose” event should be brief, just under an hour. 

So, even though it’s Mark Gurman, who is very accurate, the report is difficult to fathom. The event wouldn’t have been brief if Apple were introducing new Silicon, as Apple would need time to boast about the M4 chips and how powerful they are from previous generations.

Gurman also hasn’t clarified which AI features are coming to the iPad models, as most AI-related features are focused on the iOS 18, slated for the WWDC 2024. 

In addition to the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models, Apple is also expected to unveil the iPad Air 6, featuring a larger 12.9-inch model, new accessories for the iPads, and the Apple Pencil 3 at the “Let Loose” on May 7. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple’s “Let Loose” event to have in-person element in London
• 12.9-inch iPad Air 6 may not get a Mini-LED screen this year
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard
• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands

According to The Independent’s Andrew Griffin, Apple will stream the event globally. However, it will be accompanied by an event in London. 

In addition, Griffin states that it will mark a significant departure from Apple’s tradition of California-based launch events.

What to expect from Apple’s “Let Loose” event 

Now, we are unsure what Apple has in store for the London event, which will be the first Apple event outside the US at Apple’s new Battersea Power Station offices and accompanying store, which opened last year.

Besides that, Apple is expected to launch the new iPad models at this event after not delivering a single tablet in 2023. 

It will be a big event for the iPad fans, as we are expecting the M2 iPad Air 6 models that include a larger 12.9-inch variant for the first time. 

Apple has moved Macs to the M3 silicon, and it’s time for the iPad Pro models. Most importantly, we can see an iPad with an OLED panel for the first time.

In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman stated that Apple may skip the M3 and bring the M4 for the new iPad Pro models. 

Even though the report comes directly from Mark Gurman, the authority on Apple leaks, we are still skeptical—food for thought until the event date arrives. 

Also, expect a new Apple Pencil, which is supposed to sport new gestures and new iPad accessories. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• 12.9-inch iPad Air 6 may not get a Mini-LED screen this year
• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard
• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands
• iOS 18 tipped to bring new features to Apple’s Notes app

The 12.9-inch iPad Air 6 will be the most anticipated addition to Apple’s tablet lineup. Recently, the new larger iPad Air was rumored to sport a Mini-LED display like the current M2-powered iPad Pro line. 

However, the latest Tweet from the renowned display analyst Ross Young leaves more questions than answers. 

Well, we no longer believe the upcoming 12.9″ iPad Air will get a MiniLED display. While multiple supply chain sources confirmed it, resulting in my tweet, even more supply chain sources said it wasn’t happening, which makes sense given its still high cost.
However, we have heard that there may be a new 12.9″ MiniLED iPad introduced in Q4’24.

12.9-inch iPad Air 6 with or without a Mini-LED display

In retrospect, the 12.9-inch iPad Air 6 getting a Mini-LED panel rumor was sketchy due to cost concerns. But it made sense if Apple was ready to dump its left-over inventory for the process. 

But Young says it isn’t happening. However, there’s a twist as he mentions the possibility of a 12.9-inch Mini-LED iPad for Q4 2024. 

So, assuming the new report is accurate, it is currently unclear what Apple intends to do with those panels, and we don’t see any space between the iPad Air and iPad Pro for a new 12.9-inch iPad. 

While rumors of a larger entry-level iPad exist, it won’t stand up with a Mini-LED panel. 

What happens from here is anybody’s guess, and we won’t likely know anything concrete until the “Let Loose” event.  

The iPad Air 6 lineup is rumored to include a refreshed 10.9-inch model and a new 12.9-inch model powered by the M2 chipset. 

On the other hand, the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models will sport the M3 chipset and new OLED panels. 

Major design changes aren’t expected. However, previous rumors have stated that the FaceTime cameras on the new iPads will be moved to the side from the top — making it easier to take video calls in landscape mode. 

Lastly, Apple is also rumored to launch a new and improved Magic Keyboard and the new Apple Pencil 3 alongside the new tablets. However, we will have to wait for the May 7 event to know if Apple has anything more in store. 

Excited for Apple’s iPad event? Let us know below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Watch X redesign may include a thinner motherboard
• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands
• iOS 18 tipped to bring new features to Apple’s Notes app
• Apple’s M4 chip-powered Macs could be coming soon

Today’s rumor not only reaffirms speculations about the next-generation Apple Watch redesign but also says it will free up more space inside.

Now, Apple may take this chance to make its next smartwatch thinner or leave it as it is and add more components. 

Digitimes reports that the next generation will use a new resin-coated copper (RCC) motherboard design.

New Apple Watch X rumors 

If Digitimes’s report sounds familiar, you are not wrong. Previously, renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the 2025 iPhone 17 will use a new RCC mainboard.

At the time, Kuo even highlighted the benefits of an RCC motherboard, including the reduced thickness of the motherboard. 

Kuo also said the RCC motherboard makes drilling easier as there’s no fiberglass in it. 

Hence, we may see similar benefits from an Apple Watch with an RCC motherboard.

Either way, everything comes down to Apple. Only the future will tell whether the company will make the Apple Watch X slimmer or add more components. 

Bloomberg seems adamant about a thinner Apple Watch X and even said a system for its magnetic band is also coming. 

However, it also means your existing Watch bands collection won’t fit the unreleased Apple Watch X. 

It also remains to be seen whether the Apple Watch X will debut in 2024. Apple may push it back to 2025 due to the innovations it’s trying to bring with the new Apple Watch. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple announces “Let Loose” event for May 7
• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands
• iOS 18 tipped to bring new features to Apple’s Notes app
• Apple’s M4 chip-powered Macs could be coming soon

The measure comes into law less than two weeks after Congress rolled the TikTok ban into an appropriations bill that set aside financial funding and other aid for military conflicts in Ukraine and Israel.

Incorporating the TikTok ban into the military funding bill effectively forced Congress lawmakers to fast-track the TikTok issue, and President Biden affirmed his intention to sign it into law.

He did just that on Wednesday, putting ByteDance on notice that they had about a year to find an American company willing to buy TikTok.

If ByteDance can’t find a suitor in time or simply decides not to comply with the law, app stores in the United States will not be allowed to offer TikTok for download.

American lawmakers on both sides of the aisle paint TikTok as a national security threat, claiming the app harvests vast amounts of data from U.S.-based users. That data is later stored and scrutinized by Chinese government officials, lawmakers say, though little evidence has been made public to support those claims.

For its part, ByteDance says it safeguards the personal data of its users and doesn’t share that information with Chinese government officials.

However, there have been instances where some ByteDance and TikTok employees spied on journalists in an effort to learn their sources after unflattering information about the company was disclosed in news reports.

The TikTok situation is one of the few that has managed to unite federal lawmakers on both sides of the aisle

The movement to ban TikTok started under the administration of former President Donald Trump. In 2020, Trump signed an Executive Order banning business transactions between TikTok and U.S. citizens and companies—a move largely intended to choke off American advertising dollars. 

The ban on TikTok began during former President Donald Trump’s administration. In 2020, he issued an Executive Order prohibiting business dealings between TikTok and U.S. entities, mainly to cut off American advertising revenue.

TikTok immediately filed a legal challenge to Trump’s executive order. The lawsuit was ultimately dismissed after President Biden rescinded Trump’s executive order the following year.

But the heat on TikTok did not go away, and both state and federal lawmakers have been working to chip away at TikTok’s apparent surveillance activities in the United States since then.

President Biden has taken several actions independently, issuing orders that prevent TikTok from being installed on phones, tablets, and other devices used by federal agencies.

Last year, the Pentagon issued an order that banned TikTok on all devices used by Department of Defense contractors and employees.

Some local governments have also moved to ban TikTok: Last year, KnowTechie reported on a measure passed by lawmakers in Montana to prevent U.S.-based app stores from offering TikTok for download.

The law proposed financial fines against American technology companies that allowed TikTok to be downloaded by Montana residents and business owners. A federal judge blocked the law one month before it was to take effect.

The law signed by President Biden on Wednesday is the biggest attempt to ban TikTok across the country. It gives ByteDance about 270 days (about nine months) to find a new U.S.-based owner for TikTok, with the option for Biden to grant a 90-day extension if ByteDance can prove it is progressing toward that goal.

ByteDance is unlikely to comply with the law. Instead, company officials signaled their intention to sue the Biden Administration and request a preliminary injunction preventing the law from taking effect — similar to its actions in Montana.

Federal courts do not move quickly, and if ByteDance does sue — as it says it will — it could take several years before the dust settles on the matter. 

For now, nothing has changed — the app is still readily available in American app stores, and none of the major technology companies have signaled their intention to withdraw TikTok from their stores voluntarily. The service remains online and is still free to use at least, for now.

Will you continue to use TikTok, regardless of whether it’s banned or not? What’s your take on all this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Teens are tuned in to TikTok and YouTube ‘almost constantly’
• TikTok is giving free money away to anyone who wants it
• Facebook hits ‘copy-paste’ on TikTok’s vertical video format
• TikTok experiments with 15-minute videos

The release date for the 2024 iPad Pro, iPad Air, and alleged Apple Pencil 3 has been a popular topic for discussion.

Earlier reports said it could be a March or April launch. However, both months passed without an announcement. Today, Apple has put all the speculations to rest. 

The event is finally here—Apple officially announced its next “Let Loose” event. It will be a virtual event on May 7, 2024, at 7 am PT / 10 am ET.

Apple is ready with its latest tablets and accessories

So, what are we expecting at the event? The most obvious answer is the new M3-powered iPad Pro models.

Apple launched the M2-powered iPad Pro in 2022. After skipping 2023 entirely, it is time for a refresh.  

The new iPad Pro models will be available in two sizes: 11-inch and 12.9-inch. However, the Pro iPads are expected to have crisper and brighter OLED panels this time. 

The 11-inch iPad Pro currently costs $899, and the bigger version is $999. 

With OLED screens costing around the same to manufacture as Mini-LED, it’s not clear if there will be a change in price with the new models.

The second obvious guess for the event is the M2-powered iPad Air 6 models. Apple is rumored to introduce a new 12.9-inch iPad Air 6 to the lineup, which will apparently feature Mini-LED panels. 

The standard iPad Air 6 will be announced with a 10.9-inch LED panel and a starting price of $549.

Apple is expected to announce the third version of its Apple Pencil at the event.

However, we can’t say it’s just a rumor anymore. After Apple announced the “Let Loose” event date, CEO Tim Cook hinted at the new Apple Pencil on his X/Twitter account. 

The new pencil accessory will feature multiple touch and squeeze gestures for more convenient note-taking and drawing. More details, including the price, will be announced at the event.

Either way, get ready for the next Apple event. As mentioned, it is happening on May 7 at 7:00 am Pacific Time, 10:00 am Eastern Time, 3:00 pm GMT.

Is OLED enough of a draw to upgrade your iPad Pro? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple ceases production of FineWoven cases and Watch bands
• Google Pixel 9 Pro live images appear, highlighting its new design
• Samsung officially rolls out Galaxy AI on new Flip, Fold, and Z Fold 5
• Faulty accelerator prompts recall of every Cybertruck sold so far

Immediately, the new FineWoven material was scrutinized. It was attracting dirt scuffs and had durability issues. To add fuel to the fire, users complained that the new material doesn’t feel as premium as its predecessor, despite Apple charging the same prices.

At the time of the launch, the company likely didn’t expect FineWoven to become one of the worst product launch decisions in its history. 

According to the avid leaker Kosutami, the situation has become so out of control that Apple is giving up and closing all its production lines. 

Apple is not returning to leather after giving up on FineWoven 

According to the leaker, Apple will likely try again with other alternative leather options like Alcantara.

While Kosutami doesn’t mention its source in its post, and it is impossible for us to verify the data, one thing is for sure: Apple’s FineWoven has repeatedly proven to be an awful material, and users have had terrible experiences with its durability and stain resistance.

Now that Apple has completely abandoned leather, we hope the next material company chooses fares better than FineWoven. 

Either way, we’ll have to wait until September, when Apple will launch its next Apple Watch and the iPhone 16.

Hopefully, the company will develop a suitable replacement by then refreshing its case and Watch band lineup.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• iOS 18 tipped to bring new features to Apple’s Notes app
• iPhone 17 Plus may get a smaller display than the 16 Plus
• Apple’s M4 chip-powered Macs could be coming soon
• References to OLED 2024 iPad Pro found in latest iPadOS 17.5 beta

The measure requires TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest the service to a U.S.-based company under threat of a full-scope ban that would prohibit American tech companies from distributing it in their app stores. 

The premise of the ban is that the Chinese government utilizes TikTok as a way to gather information on Americans, something lawmakers flag as a security concern. Bytedance, which is based in China, has denied the allegations.

What happened over the weekend?

The measure passed on Saturday resembles a similar bill that was moved forward by House lawmakers just last month. Despite having broad bipartisan support among federal lawmakers and President Biden, the U.S. Senate has not acted on the earlier measure.

They may have to now, as lawmakers in the House rolled the TikTok ban into broader legislation that includes federal aid for the Ukrainian and Israeli militaries. By folding the TikTok ban into a broader foreign aid bill, House lawmakers are essentially pressuring their Senate counterparts to act on the measure, according to CNN. 

Lawmakers in the Senate could remove the TikTok ban from the bill, but doing so would require the amended measure to be sent back to the House for a vote — which would further delay assistance to the two militaries that are currently in the throes of prolonged wars. 

What would the TikTok ban require?

If both chambers of Congress pass the measure, and President Biden signs it into law — as he has said he will do — ByteDance would have about nine months to find a new U.S.-based owner for TikTok.

The Biden administration would be allowed to extend the shot clock by another 90 days if a sale doesn’t close in time, but there is proof that ByteDance is making progress on divesting the app.

By offloading TikTok to an American company, federal lawmakers believe the app would be privy to U.S. data collection, surveillance, and antitrust laws, which are more difficult to enforce on a service that is foreign-owned and operated.

If ByteDance does not move forward with a sale, the legislation would require U.S.-based technology providers to block the app from being downloaded in their stores. This would effectively require Apple, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and others to pull TikTok from their stores.

If the TikTok ban goes into effect, do users lose access to the app?

If no sale materializes, it isn’t clear whether TikTok users would lose access to the app.

It would be more difficult for users to download and install TikTok to their phones and tablets if they delete the app after the ban takes effect, since the app won’t be available in app stores or on U.S.-based servers. 

But that doesn’t necessarily mean ByteDance will block those who already have the app installed from using it — and there are signs that the company will continue to support it, even if they don’t move forward with a sale.