Times Top News

Times Top News

Apple launches AI-ready iPhone 16 series: Check India pricing, availability

Apple launches AI-ready iPhone 16 series: Check India pricing, availability

by | Sep 10, 2024 | Technology


5 min read Last Updated : Sep 10 2024 | 9:55 AM IST


Apple launched the iPhone 16 series on September 9, bringing significant upgrades and changes to both the standard and Pro models. Apple confirmed that these new iPhones are built specifically for Apple Intelligence, powered by the new A18 chip on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, and the A18 Pro chip on the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.


The iPhone 16 series will be available for pre-order in India starting September 13, with general availability from September 20. Here are the details:


iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus: What’s new

 


The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus come with significant changes in both performance and utility, as well as notable cosmetic updates, such as vertically stacked rear camera sensors.


The iPhone 16 models are powered by the new A18 chip, delivering a performance boost with the same-generation chip as the Pro models. The A18 chip features a 16-core Neural Engine (Neural Processing Unit) for handling AI tasks, enabling on-device processing for upcoming Apple Intelligence features. It also includes a 6-core CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a 5-core GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), with the GPU supporting advanced gaming features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing. With the A18 chip, users of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will also gain access to AAA video game titles previously exclusive to Pro models.

Apple has also introduced a new dedicated Camera Control button. This capacitive button allows users to adjust camera controls such as zoom, exposure, and depth of field using touch gestures. A “lighter press” functionality is expected in the coming months to help users with subject framing. The Camera Control button’s functionality will also be available on third-party apps like Snapchat.

Also Read: iOS 18 to launch on Sep 16, Apple Intelligence features rolling out later


Using the Camera Control button, Apple has introduced Visual Intelligence, allowing users to save, search, or process data from real-life objects. Users can also perform visual Google searches or send data to OpenAI’s ChatGPT for assistance.


The iPhone 16 is equipped with a 48MP primary sensor, which Apple calls the “Fusion Camera.” This primary camera acts like a 2-in-1 camera, allowing users to take high-resolution images or switch to a 2x telephoto mode. The standard iPhone 16 models also feature a new 12MP ultra-wide camera with autofocus. Apple has also brought Spatial photos and video recording capabilities to the standard iPhone models.


Apple has replaced the Mute Switch on the base iPhone models with the customisable Action Button, similar to the Pro models.


iPhone 16: India pricing


128GB storage: Rs 79,900


256GB storage: Rs 89,900


512GB storage: Rs 109,900


iPhone 16 Plus: Price


128GB storage: Rs 89,900


256GB storage: Rs 99,900


512GB storage: Rs 119,900


iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max: What’s new


The iPhone 16 Pro line is powered by the new A18 Pro chip, which also features the same 16-core Neural Engine as the A18 chip for processing AI data. While the CPU configuration remains the same, the A18 Pro chip has an additional GPU core for enhanced graphics processing.


In terms of design, the iPhone 16 Pro models feature larger displays. The iPhone 16 Pro has a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro Max has a 6.9-inch display. While the overall design remains largely unchanged, the Pro models also come with the new Camera Control button for adjusting camera actions using touch gestures. A new Desert Titanium colour option is available for the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.


While many of the Camera Control options are available on the standard models, some advanced functionality is reserved for the Pro models. Later this year, iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max users will be able to lock focus and exposure using a two-stage shutter.


In terms of camera upgrades, Apple has introduced 4K Dolby Vision video recording at 120 frames per second (fps) with the new 48MP Fusion Camera. This feature will be available in both video and slow-motion modes, with users able to adjust playback speed from the Photos app.


Apple has also upgraded the built-in microphone on the iPhone 16 Pro line. The new iPhone 16 Pro features four “studio-quality” microphones for capturing life-like audio. A new Audio Mix feature allows users to adjust the voice balance in videos, offering options to reduce background noise, focus on the subject’s voice, or create a balanced sound mix.


The iPhone 16 Pro models come with improved battery life. Apple claims the iPhone 16 Pro Max can offer up to 33 hours of video playback, while the Pro model lasts up to 27 hours.


iPhone 16 Pro: Price


128GB storage: Rs 119,900


256GB storage: Rs 129,900


512GB storage: Rs 149,900


1TB storage: Rs 169,900


iPhone 16 Pro Max: Price


256GB storage: Rs 144,900


512GB storage: Rs 164,900


1TB storage: Rs 184,900

First Published: Sep 10 2024 | 9:55 AM IST



Source link

iOS 18 to launch on Sep 16, Apple Intelligence features rolling out later

iOS 18 to launch on Sep 16, Apple Intelligence features rolling out later

by | Sep 10, 2024 | Technology


4 min read Last Updated : Sep 10 2024 | 9:40 AM IST

Apple has confirmed that iOS 18 will be available as a free software update starting Monday, September 16, for eligible iPhones. Unveiled earlier this year at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), iOS 18 brings several new features and enhancements, with Apple Intelligence—the company’s suite of artificial intelligence (AI) features—being the most anticipated. However, Apple confirmed that these AI features will not be available in the initial release.


The first wave of Apple Intelligence features will be available in beta next month as part of iOS 18.1, with more features rolling out in the months ahead. While iOS 18 will support older-generation models (listed below), Apple Intelligence features will be available only on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. All models in the recently launched iPhone 16 series are eligible for AI features.

 


Apple also stated that the AI features will be available on eligible devices where Siri is set to US English. Additional languages and platforms are expected over the course of the next year. Later this year, Apple Intelligence will add support for localised English in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. In 2024, the AI features will expand to languages including Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish.


Apple will release iOS 18 with a few India-focused features, too. Earlier, the US-based technology giant confirmed additional features and language support tailored for users in India. Apple said that these enhancements will span across various functionalities including communication, language input, and significant updates to the Move to iOS app.


Apple stated that users will have the ability to customise the time display on the lock screen with Indian numerals from 12 languages. These languages include Arabic, Arabic Indic, Bangla, Devanagari, Gujarati, Gurmukhi, Kannada, Malayalam, Meitei, Odia, Ol Chiki, and Telugu. Moreover, iPhone users in India will gain access to Live Voicemail Transcription in Indian English. Here are all the India-focused features that the iOS 18 will introduce.


iOS 18: What’s new


Home Screen


The Home Screen in iOS 18 introduces the ability to relocate apps and widgets, offering greater flexibility in layout. Users can now customise colours and apply new app icons specifically for dark mode, allowing for more personalisation.


Control Centre


The Control Centre has been revamped, featuring a new set of controls accessible via a swipe-up gesture. These controls offer quick access to connected home devices, enabling faster customisation. Additionally, the controls can now be accessed from the lock screen, and the Action Button can invoke these settings for even quicker access.


App Lock


A highly requested feature, App Lock, has been introduced in iOS 18. This allows for independent locking of apps, with the option to hide them in a secure folder, providing an additional layer of privacy and security.


Messages


The Messages app receives significant updates, including RCS messaging support, expanding compatibility with a wider range of messaging platforms. Other updates include emoji and sticker tapbacks, scheduled messages, text formatting, and integrated text effects. Additionally, satellite messaging is supported for iPhone 14 and later models, improving communication in remote areas.


Mail


The Mail app gets smarter with on-device categorisation, automatically sorting emails into categories such as primary, transactions, updates, and promotions. This feature will be rolled out later this year.


Game Mode


Apple is bringing the Mac’s Game Mode to iPhones with iOS 18, optimising performance for a smoother gaming experience on mobile devices.


Photos


The Photos app receives a comprehensive redesign aimed at simplifying the process of accessing memories and organising photos. Built-in intelligence enables the automatic creation of photo collections, enhancing ease of use and user engagement.


Audio


In iOS 18, Siri now supports gestures, such as nodding for confirmation, providing hands-free interaction. Additionally, voice isolation is introduced for AirPods Pro, improving audio clarity. For gaming enthusiasts, personalised spatial audio will debut later this year, with Need for Speed Mobile being the first title to support this feature.


iOS 18: Eligible older-generation models


iPhone 15


iPhone 15 Plus


iPhone 15 Pro


iPhone 15 Pro Max


iPhone 14


iPhone 14 Plus


iPhone 14 Pro


iPhone 14 Pro Max


iPhone 13


iPhone 13 mini


iPhone 13 Pro


iPhone 13 Pro Max


iPhone 12


iPhone 12 mini


iPhone 12 Pro


iPhone 12 Pro Max


iPhone 11


iPhone 11 Pro


iPhone 11 Pro Max


iPhone XS


iPhone XS Max


iPhone XR


iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)

First Published: Sep 10 2024 | 9:40 AM IST



Source link

Huawei unveils tri-fold smartphone, raising competition with Apple in China

Huawei unveils tri-fold smartphone, raising competition with Apple in China

by | Sep 10, 2024 | Technology


Huawei’s website showed on Tuesday that it had garnered more than 3.3 million pre-orders. (Photo: Shutterstock)

4 min read Last Updated : Sep 10 2024 | 10:57 PM IST


China’s Huawei Technologies unveils a three-way foldable phone on Tuesday, as it seeks to expand its lead over Apple in the world’s biggest smartphone market with a new form factor that has gained popularity in China.

 


Just hours after Apple unveiled its latest iPhone model, Huawei is holding a launch event of its new Z-shaped smartphone Mate XT, which is due to go on sale on Sept. 20, the same day Apple’s new iPhone is expected to be available in stores.

 


Huawei’s website showed on Tuesday that it had received more than 3.6 million pre-orders, for which no deposit is required, for the new smartphone.

 

 


By comparison, the entire global market for foldable phones was around 4 million units in the second quarter, according to research firm IDC.

 


The launch, which follows a series of successful smartphone debuts since last year, underscores Huawei’s ability to navigate U.S. sanctions and solidifies its position against Apple in China, where some consumers criticised the new iPhone 16 for its lack of AI features in the country.

 


Apple has yet to announce an AI partner in China to power the 16s and Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI software, will only be available in Chinese language next year.

 


“What’s the point of buying it if you can’t use AI?” wrote one user on Weibo, China’s X-like platform. Another commented, “Without AI as the biggest selling point, it should be half price.”

 


Huawei already has two-way foldable phones in its lineup, and their strong sales in China helped it overtake Samsung Electronics this year as the biggest vendor of such phones globally.

 


But an expected hefty price tag, due to be unveiled on Tuesday, and limited quantity are likely to make the new model more of a symbol of Huawei’s tech prowess than a major sales driver, analysts said.

 


“The upcoming Huawei products are not expected to significantly impact Samsung and Apple’s businesses in terms of product quantity,” said Jene Park, an analyst at research firm Counterpoint.

 


“There is a limit to the quantity of products supplied.

 


However, there may be some impact on sales in certain Chinese markets.”

 


The foldable smartphone market grew 57 per cent year-on-year in the second quarter with 3.9 million units shipped, largely as Chinese smartphone makers pushed into overseas markets, according to consultancy IDC.

 


That still remains just 1.3 per cent of the wider smartphone market, with 292.2 million smartphones shipped in the second quarter, IDC said.

 


“The average consumer still has limited knowledge about them, not to mention the benefits and value of the products,” said Will Wong, a senior researcher with IDC.

 


High prices of such models remain another barrier. While the new model’s price tag is unknown, last year’s Mate X5 still retails for over 10,000 yuan ($1,406) domestically, almost twice as much as a new iPhone 15.

 


Overcoming issues such as screen wrinkles and reduced durability due to the use of more hinges will also be important for foldables’ increasing usage, said Park.

 


Huawei ranked as the world’s biggest foldable smartphone seller in the second quarter with a 27.5 per cent market share, ahead of South Korea’s Samsung, with 16.4 per cent, according to IDC.

 


That share rises to 42 per cent in China’s home market, ahead of Vivo and former Huawei unit Honor, which it spun off under pressure from U.S. sanctions in 2020.

 


In the broader smartphone market in China, Apple’s ranking fell from third to sixth place in the second quarter, as Huawei emerged as the third-largest vendor on the back of strong sales of its latest smartphones.

First Published: Sep 10 2024 | 9:17 AM IST



Source link

Apple iPhone 16's camera control button stands out as most visible change

Apple iPhone 16's camera control button stands out as most visible change

by | Sep 10, 2024 | Technology


The 16 Pro also has a 48-megapixel ultrawide-angle camera — something that does seem like a step up for the photography enthusiast | Photo: Bloomberg

3 min read Last Updated : Sep 10 2024 | 8:30 AM IST


By Ed Ludlow

 


From the outside, Apple Inc.’s latest iPhones aren’t strikingly different than last year’s models — other than a small button nestled into the lower right side. 

 


This feature, the Camera Control button, is included in all four versions of the new iPhone 16 and looks like a slightly recessed groove. Pressing it once instantly brings up the camera launch screen, letting you fine-tune the shot. A second touch will take the photo.


The idea is to replicate the experience of using the shutter button on a digital single-lens reflex camera — better known as a DSLR. The process is pretty simple and works best with the phone held in your right hand, using your thumb on the button. It’s possible to do it with your left hand, though it might require a bit more fiddling.

 


From there, it gets a little less intuitive. While doing a hands-on test of the technology at Apple’s campus in Cupertino, California, it took time to get the hang of some of the button’s other functions.


Beyond pressing down to take a shot or start a video, you can maintain your finger’s contact with the button and double-tap lightly to toggle through camera options. You can also adjust the zoom level or — depending on the mode you’ve selected — change other settings by sliding the finger across the button.


This part didn’t always go smoothly. A number of people testing the feature, as well as some Apple staff, struggled to activate the mode toggle the first time.

There are some other subtle changes to the iPhone lineup. The Pro versions now have slightly larger screen sizes, checking in at 6.3 and 6.9 inches depending on the model. They also have the tinniest borders of any Apple product, helping maximize that screen real estate. 


Even so, many consumers might not notice the difference. The iPhone 16 Pro’s 6.3-inch screen doesn’t appear remarkably large when held up against its 6.1-inch predecessor.


More substantive changes will come in the form of software updates — most notably, a suite of AI tools called Apple Intelligence. But you’ll have to be patient: A beta version of that technology will debut next month, well after the iPhones go on sale.


The early iteration of Apple Intelligence will center on text summarization, generating responses in email and other messages, and photo editing. Those capabilities were impressive during tests, but also in line with what’s available through the likes of Adobe Inc. and Google.


The 16 Pro also has a 48-megapixel ultrawide-angle camera — something that does seem like a step up for the photography enthusiast. 


Siri, the voice assistant, has a refreshed interface. When triggered, the feature lights up around the border of the phone. You also can pose questions to Siri voice-free by typing in a command bar.


The phones have more powerful processors, and this is evident when switching between between applications and handling other tasks. Apple also has described the new Pro Max phone as having the best iPhone battery life ever — something that seemed especially appealing after I drained my 15 Pro’s battery during the event.


Apple kept the prices steady for the new lineup. The iPhone 16 starts at $799, with the Plus model priced at $899. The iPhone 16 Pro is $999, and the Pro Max begins at $1,199. Preorders begin Friday, with the phones shipping on Sept. 20.

First Published: Sep 10 2024 | 8:30 AM IST



Source link

iPhone 16 series to AirPods 4: Highlights from Apple 'It's Glowtime' event

iPhone 16 series to AirPods 4: Highlights from Apple 'It's Glowtime' event

by | Sep 9, 2024 | Technology


Everything Apple announced at It’s Glowtime event (Photos: Apple)

6 min read Last Updated : Sep 10 2024 | 12:45 AM IST

Apple, on September 9, announced the iPhone 16 series, calling it the beginning of an exciting new era that raises the bar of what the iPhone can do. Alongside the iPhones, the US-based technology giant unveiled two new wireless earbuds in the AirPods 4 series, the Watch Series 10 smartwatch, and new features coming to the Watch Ultra 2 and AirPods Max. Below is a detailed roundup of everything announced at the “It’s Glowtime” event:


iPhone 16 series


Tim Cook described the iPhone 16 series as a leap into an exciting new era, emphasising that these are the first iPhones designed from the ground up with artificial intelligence (AI) as a core element. Powered by the new Apple A18 chip, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models are said to push the boundaries of smartphone capabilities with on-device AI, hardware-accelerated ray tracing, and superior performance efficiency.

 


iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus


The iPhone 16 series comes in two sizes: the standard 6.1-inch iPhone 16 and the larger 6.7-inch iPhone 16 Plus. Both models feature a refreshed aluminium design with a vibrant colour-infused back glass. The devices are water and dust resistant and feature a glass ceramic display, offering protection and enhanced durability.


The display boasts 2000 nits peak brightness, while the screen can also dim down to a minimal 1 nit for low-light situations. New hardware includes an Action Button, and a Camera Control button with integrated Google Lens and ChatGPT for new Visual Intelligence feature, which will be available on later dates.


Performance is driven by the Apple A18 chip, built on a second-generation 3nm process, with a 6-core CPU and a 5-core GPU. With 17 per cent more memory bandwidth, this new architecture enables advanced machine learning tasks and large generative AI models, utilising a 16-core neural engine for optimised performance. Apple claims it delivers 30 per cent faster processing and 40 per cent faster graphics compared to its predecessor, all while being 30 per cent more power-efficient.


Camera advancements include a 48MP main camera with sensor-shift optical image stabilisation (OIS), an ultra-wide camera with autofocus, and a 2x telephoto option enabled by the main sensor. The iPhone 16 supports 4K 60fps videos in Dolby Vision, and introduces Spatial Capture, allowing users to record immersive videos and photos designed for use with Apple Vision Pro.


Prices start at $799 for the iPhone 16 and $899 for the iPhone 16 Plus.


iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max


The premium iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models (6.3-inch and 6.9-inch, respectively) showcase innovations both inside and out, said Apple. Notably, they have thinner display borders, offer ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate, and are protected by Ceramic Shield glass. These models use Grade 5 Titanium for the chassis, offering a durable yet lightweight design, complemented by a micro-blasted texture and a new Desert Titanium colourway.


At the core of these Pro models is the A18 Pro chip, which powers 35 trillion operations per second with its 16-core neural engine. The 6-core GPU supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, improving graphic rendering in games and apps. The 6-core CPU has two performance cores and four efficiency cores, enhancing overall efficiency.


On the camera front, both Pro models come equipped with a 48MP main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide camera with autofocus, and an upgraded 5x telephoto lens. They introduce new Photographic Styles and the ability to shoot in 4K 120fps slow-motion with Dolby Vision, ProRes, and LOG formats. The Pro models also offer studio-quality microphones for improved audio capture, as well as a new Audio Mix feature for more dynamic sound recording.


With faster MagSafe charging and support for Qi2 wireless charging, these Pro models cater to users looking for a premium experience. Apple also highlighted upcoming features for the Camera Control button, which will be updated later this year for enhanced functionality.


Apple Intelligence


A central theme of the event was Apple’s new Apple Intelligence system, which integrates generative AI throughout the iPhone 16 series. This new system enables Personal Intelligence, running multiple Apple generative models on-device, with privacy as a key consideration. Apple Intelligence introduces Private Cloud Compute, allowing users to leverage more advanced AI models privately.


Moreover, the new camera control system, set to launch later this year, will incorporate Visual Intelligence. This innovation supports precision with light press and full click functionality for refined control.


Siri also sees a significant upgrade, with richer language understanding and enhanced generative AI capabilities. The first wave of Apple Intelligence features will be available in select regions in English, US from next month.


Apple Watch Series 10


The Apple Watch Series 10 was another highlight of the event, with a refreshed design and improved display. This latest watch features a 30 per cent larger screen than previous models, with rounded corners and a wide-angle OLED display. The screen is also up to 40 per cent brighter when viewed at an angle.


Measuring 9.7mm thick, the Apple Watch Series 10 is 30 per cent thinner than its predecessor. The new finishes include polished Jet Black, Rose Gold, and Silver Aluminium casings. Notably, Apple has replaced stainless steel with Polished Titanium options, available in Natural, Gold, and Dark Slate Grey finishes.


Powered by the new S10 SIP (system-in-package) with a 4-core neural engine, the Series 10 introduces WatchOS 11, which brings Sleep Apnea detection – a feature also coming to the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is now available in a new Satin Black titanium finish.


AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 (ANC)


Apple introduced the AirPods 4 (fourth generation), powered by the H2 chip and featuring an open-ear design. These AirPods offer personalised spatial audio, USB-C charging case, and up to 30 hours of total battery life. A standout feature is the support for head nod gestures for Siri, enhancing hands-free control.


The new AirPods with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) boast upgraded microphones, Transparency Mode, and Adaptive Audio. They introduce Conversation Awareness, which lowers volume when the AirPods detect the user is speaking and automatically raises it when the conversation ends.


Apple’s premium AirPods Max now support Personalised Spatial Audio and come with a USB-C charging case for faster and more versatile charging.

First Published: Sep 10 2024 | 12:45 AM IST



Source link

Battery-powered devices are overheating more often on planes, raising alarm

Battery-powered devices are overheating more often on planes, raising alarm

by | Sep 9, 2024 | Technology


Electronics, Tablet, Laptop(Photo: Shutterstock)

3 min read Last Updated : Sep 10 2024 | 12:02 AM IST


Devices powered by lithium-ion batteries are overheating more often during airline flights and passengers often put them in checked bags that go into the cargo hold, where a fire might not be detected as quickly.


Overheating incidents rose 28 per cent from 2019 to 2023, although such events remain relatively rare, UL Standards said in a report released on Monday.


E-cigarettes overheated more often than any other device, based on reports from 35 airlines, according to the report.


In 60 per cent of the cases, the overheating called thermal runaway happened near the seat of the passenger who brought the device on board.

 


In July, a smoking laptop in a passenger’s bag led to the evacuation of a plane awaiting takeoff at San Francisco International Airport. Last year, a flight from Dallas to Orlando, Florida, made an emergency landing in Jacksonville, Florida, after a battery caught fire in an overhead bin.


More than one-quarter of passengers surveyed for the study said they put vaping cigarettes and portable chargers in checked bags. That is against federal rules.


The Transportation Security Administration prohibits e-cigarettes and chargers and power banks with lithium-ion batteries in checked bags but allows them in carry-on bags. The rule exists precisely because fires in the cargo hold might be harder to detect and extinguish.


UL Standards, a division of UL Solutions Inc., a safety-science company previously known as Underwriters Laboratories, based its findings on data from 35 passenger and cargo airlines including almost all the leading US carriers.


The Federal Aviation Administration reports 37 thermal-runaway incidents on planes this year, through August 15. There were a 77 reports last year, a 71 per cent increase over 2019, according to the FAA numbers.


Considering that airlines operate about 180,000 US flights each week, incidents in the air are relatively uncommon, and lithium batteries can overheat anywhere.


We also know that one of these thermal-runaway incidents at 40,000 feet does present unique risks, said UL’s David Wroth.


Those risks have been known for many years.


After cargo planes carrying loads of lithium-ion batteries crashed in 2010 and 2011, the United Nations’ aviation organization considered restricting such shipments but rejected tougher standards. Opponents, including airlines, argued that the decision on whether to accept battery shipments should be left up to the carriers, and some no longer take bulk battery shipments.


The most common lithium-ion-powered devices on planes are phones, laptops, wireless headphones and tablets. About 35 per cent of reported overheating incidents involved e-cigarettes, and 16 per cent involved power banks.


UL Standards, a division of UL Solutions Inc., a safety-science company previously known as Underwriters Laboratories, based its findings on voluntary reports from 35 passenger and cargo airlines including almost all the leading US carriers.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

First Published: Sep 10 2024 | 12:02 AM IST



Source link

About-us

Privacy Policy

Email: hansrajagrawalakola@gmail.com

YouTube
Instagram
WhatsApp