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Upgrade to iOS 17.3: Apple Adds Powerful Stolen Device Security to iPhone

Upgrade to iOS 17.3: Apple Adds Powerful Stolen Device Security to iPhone

With the release of iOS 17.3, Apple has significantly improved iPhone security by introducing Stolen Device Protection. The purpose of this new function is to prevent hackers from accessing private data kept in iCloud or other important accounts. Stolen Device Protection forces users to utilise biometric identification, such as fingerprint scanning or Face ID, for some tasks, like accessing stored passwords or requesting a new Apple Card, in contrast to conventional passcode methods on the lock screen.

The update adds a Security Delay for more sensitive operations, such as resetting your iPhone passcode or Apple ID password, to further improve security. Apple claims that this Security Delay requires Face ID or Touch ID, which is followed by an additional successful biometric authentication and an hour-long delay. 

Upgrade to iOS 17.3: Apple Adds Powerful Stolen Device Security to iPhone

Only the legitimate owner will be able to do important operations on the device thanks to this multi-step procedure, which provides an additional degree of security. Notably, context-aware security measures are added when users are away from familiar places like home or work and additional authentication is triggered.

It’s simple to activate stolen device protection. Toggle the function on by going to the Settings app, choosing Face ID & Passcode, entering their device passcode, and so on. Apple highlights that there is strong protection against unwanted access with this latest security upgrade.

iOS 17.3 Brings Group Playlists

Together with security-related changes, iOS 17.3 brings group playlists to the Apple Music app. By enabling friends to join and contribute to playlists, this feature improves the social and interactive elements of sharing music.

Additionally, Apple gives customers more alternatives for entertainment while travelling by expanding the ability to stream content to TVs in a limited number of hotels.

Apple has released upgrades for devices running iOS 9, 15, and 16 in addition to iOS 17.3. Although specific details regarding these upgrades are not given, it is indicated that they could contain significant security fixes, demonstrating Apple’s dedication to preserving the ecosystem’s overall security.

These upgrades help to provide a safer and more robust environment for iPhone users, as Apple continues to prioritise user security. This ensures that their sensitive and personal data is secured against possible threats and unauthorised access.

Apple Watches Will Hit The Market Without the Oxygen Feature After Legal Setback

Apple Watches Will Hit The Market Without the Oxygen Feature After Legal Setback

Following a recent legal defeat, Apple has strategically stated that it would no longer be offering the blood oxygen monitoring capability on its Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models in the United States. The decision is made in the midst of a legal dispute between the tech giant and Masimo, a medical technology startup, over patents pertaining to the technology used in the blood oxygen monitoring feature.

Apple’s shares fell 0.5% to close at $182.68 after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit decided on Wednesday that the company could no longer sell the disputed models. The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) had previously granted Masimo a ruling in December that resulted in a brief suspension of the devices’ imports.

Apple Watches Will Hit The Market Without the Oxygen Feature After Legal Setback

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As the legal dispute plays out, Apple’s decision to deactivate the blood oxygen monitoring feature is perceived as a preventive action to maintain sales of the watches in one of its biggest markets. On Thursday at 6 a.m. Pacific Time, the Series 9 and Ultra 2 devices without this capability will be on sale both in-store and on Apple’s website.

 

Joe Kiani, the founder and CEO of Masimo, acknowledged the value of upholding intellectual property rights while expressing his happiness with the court’s decision. Apple has been charged by Masimo of recruiting its staff members and stealing pulse oximetry technology to use in Apple Watches.

Apple Voiced disagreement

Apple, on the other hand, maintains that the ITC ruling and any follow-up orders should be overturned and has voiced strong disagreement with them. The manufacturer maintains that the Series 9 and Ultra 2 devices available in the United States will retain the blood oxygen functionality, with a visible app icon. On the other hand, users who tap on these symbols will be notified that the services are not available.

It is speculated by analysts that Apple made a calculated decision to disable the blood oxygen characteristics rather than stop selling the watches in the US. With $39.84 billion of the company’s $383.29 billion in sales for the fiscal year 2023 coming from the wearables category, which includes the Apple Watch, wearable technology plays a major role in the company’s earnings.

Apple has asked that the ITC’s import restriction be put on hold indefinitely while the appeals process is ongoing. The legal battle is anticipated to last for around a year. The business is confident in its appeal, saying that the prohibition, if upheld, would have significant impacts on Apple, its suppliers, and the public.

The smartwatch market will be closely observing Apple’s response to this legal setback and how it plans to maintain its market share and strategic positioning in the wearables business.

"Pending the appeal, Apple is taking steps to comply with the ruling while ensuring customers have access to Apple Watch with limited disruption," Apple said. "These steps include introducing a version of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the United States without the Blood Oxygen feature. There is no impact to Apple Watch units previously purchased that include the Blood Oxygen feature."

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Apple's Vision Pro Headset Launching Soon - Here's What You Need to Know About Price and Availability

Apple Vision Pro’s Unexpected Launch Without YouTube, Spotify, or Netflix Apps

In a surprising move, Netflix Inc. has decided not to launch an app for Apple Inc.’s Vision Pro headset, slated to debut on Feb. 2. This decision by the world’s leading video subscription service is seen as a notable omission for the $3,499 headset, which Apple hopes will gain traction through entertainment content. Here’s a closer look at the situation and its potential implications.

While Apple is positioning the Vision Pro as a high-end entertainment device, Netflix’s refusal to support it with a dedicated app is raising eyebrows. Instead of creating a Vision Pro app or adapting its existing iPad app, Netflix suggests users enjoy its content on the web browser, a move that might inconvenience users and limit accessibility.

Vision Pro App Ecosystem: A Dual Approach

Apple's Vision Pro Headset Launching Soon - Here's What You Need to Know About Price and Availability

The Vision Pro is designed to run two types of apps: those specifically crafted for its interface and existing iPad applications. Apple aims to make it seamless for developers to transition their current iPad apps to the Vision Pro platform. However, Netflix’s unwillingness to even support the iPad approach indicates a cautious stance, perhaps adopting a wait-and-see strategy.

Netflix's Change of Heart

Interestingly, this decision contradicts Netflix’s statement in July, where it expressed plans to support its iPad app on the Vision Pro. While the streaming giant emphasizes users can access Netflix through the web browser, the lack of app support may restrict functionality, such as offline viewing and custom streaming environments.

As both Apple and Netflix vie for subscribers in the streaming industry, this move raises questions about the dynamics between the two giants. Apple, a relatively smaller player with less than 10% of the US market, is banking on Vision Pro’s success to compete with Netflix. The absence of a dedicated Netflix app might be a strategic choice to avoid aiding a rival in the highly competitive streaming landscape.

Impact on Users: Accessibility and Immersive Experience

Without a dedicated app, Vision Pro users may find it challenging to access Netflix content seamlessly, especially when offline. The absence of specialized immersive backdrops also limits the viewing experience, potentially affecting the headset’s appeal to avid Netflix watchers.

In conclusion, Netflix’s decision not to launch an app for Apple’s Vision Pro introduces a layer of complexity to the headset’s market entry. Whether this move is a strategic calculation or a missed opportunity, its impact on the user experience and the competitive landscape remains to be seen. As Apple gears up for preorders, the absence of a Netflix app could be a significant factor for potential buyers weighing their entertainment options.

Apple Era Overtakes Samsung to Become Global Smartphone Leader of 2023

Apple Era Overtakes Samsung to Become Global Smartphone Leader of 2023

In a surprising turn of events, preliminary data reveals that Apple has seized the crown from Samsung, emerging as the world’s largest smartphone brand in 2023. This marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the fiercely competitive smartphone market, breaking Samsung’s annual streak as the market leader since 2010.

Understanding the Numbers

Apple Era Overtakes Samsung to Become Global Smartphone Leader of 2023

Image Source: euronews.com

According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), Apple secured a 20.1% market share in global smartphone shipments throughout 2023, surpassing Samsung’s 19.4%. What sets Apple apart is not only its ascendancy to the top position but also the remarkable positive growth it demonstrated amidst a challenging market.

Apple's Remarkable Growth

Within the triumvirate of smartphone giants — Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi — Apple stands out as the lone contender to exhibit year-over-year shipment growth. Apple’s shipments rose from 226.3 million units to 234.6 million units in 2023, making it the only company in the top three to achieve this feat.

Nabila Popal, research director with IDC’s Worldwide Tracker team, highlights Apple’s dominance, stating, “Not only is Apple the only player in the Top 3 to show positive growth annually, but also bags the number 1 spot annually for the first time ever.” This underscores the Cupertino-based company’s strategic prowess and adaptability in a dynamic market.

Factors Contributing to Samsung's Downfall

The decline of Samsung’s market leadership can be attributed to diversification within Android smartphone shipments. Competitors like Huawei, Honor, and OnePlus, offering compelling devices at lower price points, played a pivotal role in challenging Samsung’s position. The smartphone market experienced a 3.2% decline, shipping 1.17 billion units in 2023.

While the overall market faced a contraction, the second half of 2023 witnessed growth, hinting at a potential recovery in 2024. Strong performances from low-end Android players like Transsion and Xiaomi, particularly in emerging markets, contributed to this positive momentum.

Apple's Revenue Conundrum

Despite clinching the top spot in market share, Apple faced a revenue downturn throughout 2023. The iPhone 15 lineup, launched in September, couldn’t entirely offset the challenges, with the majority of the year being dominated by iPhone 14 sales. Apple’s ability to translate market share into sustainable revenue will be a key focus in navigating future quarters.

As Apple disrupts the established order, the smartphone arena witnesses a seismic shift in 2023. The interplay of market dynamics, product strategies, and competitive landscapes sets the stage for an intriguing 2024, where industry titans vie for supremacy in this ever-evolving market.

How To Downgrade ICloud+ Storage Plan on iPhone, iPad, Mac, PC

How To Downgrade ICloud+ Storage Plan on iPhone, iPad, Mac, PC

How To Downgrade ICloud+ Storage Plan on iPhone, iPad, Mac, PC

A key component of Apple’s ecosystem, iCloud+ offers consumers seamless cloud storage across all of their devices. But there can be times when you want to change or end your iCloud+ storage subscription. Here’s a detailed explanation explaining how to reduce your iCloud+ storage plan and what happens following, whether you’re using an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or PC.

How to Downgrade Your Storage Plan on iCloud+

Mac

  • Launch the Apple menu.
  • Click on Apple ID under System Preferences (if you’re on macOS Mojave or older, skip this step).
  • After selecting iCloud, choose Manage.
  • To modify your storage plan, click.
  • Launch the menu for Downgrade Options.
  • Enter the password for your Apple ID.
  • Choose the Free Plan.
  • Press “Done.”

Using a Windows computer

  • Launch the iCloud for Windows software.
  • Press the “Storage” button.
  • Click on Modify Storage Plan.
  • Launch the menu for Downgrade Options.
  • Enter the password for your Apple ID.
  • Choose the Free Plan.
  • Press “Done.”

Using the iPhone

  • Get the Settings menu open.
  • Press your moniker.
  • Tap Manage Storage or iCloud Storage after selecting iCloud.
  • Select Modify Storage Plan.
  • Launch the menu for Downgrade Options.
  • Enter the password for your Apple ID.
  • Choose the Free Plan.
  • Click “Done.”

On the iPad

  • Get the Settings menu open.
  • Press your moniker.
  • Tap Manage Storage or iCloud Storage after selecting iCloud.
  • Select Modify Storage Plan.
  • Launch the menu for Downgrade Options.
  • Enter the password for your Apple ID.
  • Choose the Free Plan.
  • Click “Done.”

Without a Windows computer or Apple device

  • Click on iCloud on Windows.
  • Press the “Storage” button.
  • Click on Modify Storage Plan.
  • Launch the menu for Downgrade Options.
  • Enter the password for your Apple ID.
  • Choose the Free Plan.
  • Press “Done.”

What Follows a Downgrade

When the data in your iCloud app reaches the limit of the reduced plan, it will stop syncing or updating.

Upgrade your storage or make space by removing superfluous files in order to start syncing again.

You will not be able to use several iCloud+ services, such as Private Relay and Hide My Email if you downgrade to the Free Plan.

Extra Details

For possible reimbursements, get in touch with Apple Support within 14 days if there have been any recent downgrades.

Before you begin the downgrade, make a backup copy of your iCloud data.

How to Setup Find My on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

How to Setup Find My on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

How to Setup Find My on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

When it comes to tracing lost or stolen devices and guaranteeing the protection of your priceless Apple items, Apple’s Find My function is a lifesaver. For location monitoring, remote data deletion, and device security, Find My provides a uniform solution, independent of the device—an iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, or even third-party accessories. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial for configuring Find My on your Mac, iPhone, and iPad.

Open the Find My App:

Make sure the Find My app is installed on your smartphone before starting the setup procedure. Download it from the App Store if not.

  • Turn on Find My on your iPad and iPhone.
  • Launch the iPhone’s Settings app.
  • Click or tap your Apple ID name, then choose “Find My.”
  • If you want your friends and family to be aware of where you are, enable “Find My [Device]” and “Share My Location”.
  • Turn on “Find My Network” to locate a dead iPhone and turn on “Send Last Location” in cases when the battery is running low.
  • Retain Location Services turned on under the Privacy & Security menu.

Include Accessories to Locate My Device:

The setup process is simple for Beats, Apple Watch, and AirPods products:

Both AirPods and AirPods Pro

  • Open Settings, select Bluetooth
  • Then press the Info button next to the AirPods that are connected.
  • Choose “Show in Find My Network.”

Apple Watch

  • Navigate to Settings on your Apple Watch
  • Touch your name
  • Choose the name of your watch
  • Then pick “Find My Watch.”
  • Verify that “Find My Network” is turned on.

Find My on a Mac:

While Mac Find My works similarly, make sure location services are turned on:

  • On your Mac, open the Settings app.
  • To activate Location Services
  • Choose Security & Privacy
  • Then select the Privacy tab.

You have now successfully set up Find My on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac by following these thorough instructions. This strong feature guarantees that even third-party accessories are trackable, giving users piece of mind about device security. Find My now provides assistance for lost iPhones and disconnected AirPods.

Utilise Apple’s Find My to simplify the tracking of your Apple gadgets and devices and to protect your digital surroundings.