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M4 MacBook Pro to iPad mini: Apple could launch 4 products later this month: Technology news

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Technology


3 min read Last Updated : Oct 14 2024 | 2:04 PM IST


Apple is expected to kick off the M4 chip upgrade cycle for its Mac line with a launch event later this month. At the event, Apple is anticipated to unveil its next-generation MacBook Pro, a redesigned Mac mini, and a new 24-inch iMac model. While the new Mac mini will feature the most notable changes, both the MacBook Pro and iMac models will see significant upgrades in performance and utility. Apple could also launch the next-generation iPad mini at the event.


Apple’s October launch event: What to expect


MacBook Pro

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The new MacBook Pro is expected to bring significant upgrades, focusing on performance, connectivity, and design. The new model is likely to feature a minimum of 16GB of RAM across all configurations, a step up from the current base 14-inch M3 variant, which includes 8GB of memory. Additionally, the base M4 MacBook Pro is likely to be equipped with a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, compared to the 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU found in the M3 model. Connectivity enhancements could include three Thunderbolt 4 ports on the base version, up from two in the existing generation. Design-wise, the base-level M4 MacBook Pro will reportedly introduce a Space Black colour option, a feature previously limited to higher-end versions of the M3 lineup.

 


iMac


Similar to the MacBook Pro, the next iMac is set for key upgrades as well, including the M4 chip, which could enhance performance by incorporating a 10-core CPU instead of 8. Additionally, it could start with a 16GB RAM variant, with options for models offering up to 32GB of RAM. For comparison, the current generation iMac tops out at 24GB of RAM.


Port configurations may see improvements, with higher-end variants possibly featuring four Thunderbolt ports, leveraging the M4 chip’s additional controllers. Connectivity could also be enhanced with Wi-Fi 7 support. Furthermore, accessories like the Magic Mouse, Keyboard, and Trackpad are expected to switch from Lightning to USB-C.


Mac mini


The upcoming Mac mini is set for a significant redesign, marking its first major update since 2010. It is expected to be considerably smaller and resemble the size of the Apple TV while potentially being taller than its predecessor. Skipping directly to the M4 chip, the 2024 Mac mini will likely offer configurations with both M4 and M4 Pro chips, with the base M4 mirroring the iPad Pro’s design and the M4 Pro providing options for higher unified memory and additional GPU cores. For connectivity, the new Mac mini could replace USB Type-A ports with up to five USB-C ports—three on the back and two on the front. It is also expected to feature an HDMI port, a headphone/microphone jack, and Ethernet connectivity.


iPad Mini


The next-generation iPad mini could receive a major performance upgrade with the latest Apple Silicon, possibly incorporating the A18 chip from the iPhone 16 series to support Apple Intelligence features. Additionally, it may include features that it has missed out on since its last update three years ago, such as a landscape-oriented front camera and support for the Apple Pencil Pro.

First Published: Oct 14 2024 | 2:04 PM IST



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Soon, Xbox Cloud Gaming will allow players to stream games they own: Report: Technology news

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Oct 14 2024 | 1:07 PM IST


Microsoft is planning to support the streaming of Xbox game libraries next month. Currently, players are allowed to stream a limited selection of pre-decided titles through the Xbox app on their devices. However, in November, players will be able to stream any game they own, as the existing restrictions will be lifted. According to The Verge, the company is preparing to test the ability to stream games that players own but are not included in the current Xbox Game Pass library. This is distinct from the limited selection of games offered through Xbox Game Pass.

 


Microsoft has reportedly been preparing its Xbox Cloud Gaming servers to support the streaming of thousands of games as part of an ongoing project called Project Lapland. The company will initially test the new Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming capabilities with Xbox Insiders in November, before expanding access to more Xbox users and games.


This development coincides with Microsoft’s plans to allow game purchases through its Xbox mobile app for Android in the US. Microsoft can proceed with this change due to a court ruling earlier this week that compels Google to discontinue the requirement for Google Play Billing for apps in the Play Store, starting November 1. Once Microsoft finalises its efforts to offer a complete game library on Xbox Cloud Gaming, players will be able to buy an Xbox game on Android and stream it directly to their devices immediately.


For context, Project xCloud was originally set to launch with game library streaming in 2020. Microsoft later announced plans to support players’ game libraries on Xbox Cloud Gaming in 2022, but that feature did not roll out that year.

First Published: Oct 14 2024 | 1:07 PM IST



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Apple's Vision line expansion plan may include Ray-Ban-like glasses: Report: Technology news

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Technology


3 min read Last Updated : Oct 14 2024 | 12:42 PM IST


Apple is reportedly planning to compete with Meta by launching an array of new devices, including a lower-end Vision headset, smart glasses, and AirPods with cameras. According to a Bloomberg report, Apple’s Vision Products Group, which developed the first Vision Pro headset, is working on at least four new devices, with one expected to launch as soon as early next year.


The report stated that Apple is considering launching smart glasses similar to Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, as well as an AirPods model with built-in cameras. It is possible that the AirPods with cameras will be an entirely new product; however, the company could also equip the next generation of AirPods Pro with built-in cameras and Apple Intelligence.

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Earlier reports suggested that AirPods with cameras would enable visual understanding of the environment for Apple Intelligence. Similar to the new visual intelligence capability showcased at the iPhone 16 series launch, these AirPods could offer real-time assistance regarding physical objects to the wearer.


The report also indicates that Apple is actively developing a lower-end version of the Vision Pro headset, which could be unveiled in early 2025. Compared to the Vision Pro headset that costs $3,499, the lower-end variant is likely to be priced at $2,000 and will be powered by a less powerful processor. The report stated that Apple would also reduce the premium features of the device to make it more affordable. In addition to using some cheaper materials, the lower-end Vision headset would likely lack the EyeSight feature that displays the user’s eyes on the outside. Bloomberg noted that Apple expects the headset to sell at least double the volume of the Vision Pro.


Despite the introduction of a lower-end version, Apple is not planning to abandon the Pro-grade headset. The company is reportedly developing a second-generation model of the Vision Pro headset, which is expected to remain a niche product like its predecessor. The second-generation model is likely to launch in 2026 and will be powered by a faster processor with minor refinements across the board.


Recently, at its Meta Connect event on September 25, Meta unveiled its prototype Orion AR (Augmented Reality) glasses, which create a virtual interface without obstructing the wearer’s vision. The company also introduced an affordable version of its Quest 3 headset called the Meta Quest 3S.

First Published: Oct 14 2024 | 12:42 PM IST



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Huawei's next Android-free HarmonyOS NEXT set to debut next week: Report

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Oct 14 2024 | 12:11 PM IST


Huawei has reportedly been working to prioritise its own operating software while removing support for Android. In an attempt to achieve this, the Chinese consumer electronics company is set to roll out its new OS, HarmonyOS NEXT, to Huawei devices next week. The operating system will first be available on the Mate 60, Mate X5, and MatePad Pro on October 15. It is uncertain whether the newly launched Mate XT tri-fold smartphone will receive an update.


Huawei has been using HarmonyOS in its devices for some time now. The OS started as just another Android skin, but a shift occurred when Huawei planned to move away from Android entirely, aiming to develop its own dedicated OS that would still support a wide range of applications.

 


The company has been striving for complete self-sufficiency since this transition. According to 9to5Google, Huawei recently announced that HarmonyOS NEXT brings support for 10,000 apps and covers “99.9 per cent of consumers’ usage time needs.”


Huawei has been developing a variant of HarmonyOS that does not support Android apps. Since transitioning from EMUI to HarmonyOS, Huawei smartphone users have been able to sideload most apps, although they still lack access to Google apps, including the Play Store. Since the new operating software will not support Android apps, Huawei has announced support for apps that users will require.


All of this indicates that Huawei is set to launch HarmonyOS NEXT and begin rolling it out to phones already available in the market. It is reported that 17 per cent of China’s smartphone market in the first quarter of 2024 is made up of HarmonyOS, representing a considerable number of devices shifting away from Android in a market largely dominated by either Android or iOS, according to 9to5Google.

First Published: Oct 14 2024 | 12:11 PM IST



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Apple eyes smart home expansion with new devices and AI software: Report: Technology news

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Technology


Apple iPad 10th gen, HomePod and HomePod mini

2 min read Last Updated : Oct 14 2024 | 11:33 AM IST


Apple is reportedly planning a significant push into the smart home segment with multiple new devices and a new user interface. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, home hardware is expected to be a top priority for Apple, and the company is developing new devices and software to create an end-to-end experience.


The report states that Apple has implemented an aggressive new strategy for the smart home category, focused on placing screens throughout the house. Currently, the company is developing at least two new devices: a smart display and a higher-end robotic tabletop device, both of which will operate on a new homeOS operating system.

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Apple has already begun laying the groundwork by collaborating with competitors such as Google and Amazon to develop the smart home protocol called Matter. This protocol will allow smart home devices and accessories from these companies to be compatible with one another, thus expanding the ecosystem. Gurman mentioned that the next step for Apple is to develop a new operating system likely called homeOS. The company will probably integrate its Apple Intelligence into the new software, enabling precise control of applications, devices, and media. This integration has already commenced with the Siri digital assistant’s new App Intents system, which provides it with more in-app control on iPhones.


AI integration will also reportedly dictate how the new home devices function. For instance, the new robotic tabletop device, which will feature an iPad-like screen connected to a robotic limb, will utilise AI to understand its environment. The integrated AI system will allow the device to sense who is looking at the screen, what the user is doing, and whom they are speaking to, facilitating precise adjustments and responses.


However, Apple is expected to launch the smart display device first. This device will likely be an iPad-like screen that can be placed anywhere, allowing users to stream TV+ content, make FaceTime calls, surf the web, and access apps like Calendar and Notes. The tabletop device will likely follow later and will be priced higher than the smart display. It is also expected to offer more functionality, such as home security monitoring, advanced videoconferencing, and higher quality media playback.

First Published: Oct 14 2024 | 11:33 AM IST



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Apple's next-gen iPhone SE: What to expect besides Face ID, USB-C connector

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Oct 14 2024 | 10:54 AM IST


The web is abuzz with reports on the next-generation iPhone SE, which Apple is anticipated to launch in 2025. A recent report features images of the alleged case designed for the smartphone, shared on X by a user, highlighting key aspects of the device. The smartphone is expected to include a 6.1-inch OLED display, a new 48MP camera, USB-C, Face ID, among other features. Here are the details:


Single rear camera


The design of the iPhone SE 4 is expected to be similar to that of the iPhone 14. However, it will not feature the dual-camera setup found on the iPhone 14, meaning the ultra-wide camera will be absent, reports 9to5Mac. The smartphone is likely to have a 48MP main camera. Although it may lack two physical rear camera sensors, it will still offer two focal lengths: 1x, utilising the 48MP camera and combining it down to 12MP, and 2x, which zooms in on the central 12MP area of the 48MP sensor. Apple claims this setup delivers optical quality.

 


Physical mute switch


Previous rumours suggested that the iPhone SE might feature an Action Button; however, recent leaks indicate this may not be true. The smartphone is expected to include a cutout for the mute switch in the upper left instead of an additional button, similar to the design of the iPhone 15 Pro and later models.


No camera control button


Images of the case confirm that the iPhone SE 4 will not feature the newly introduced Camera Control button found on the iPhone 16 series. The case does not include an opening on the lower right side and lacks a cutout for a possible conductive crystal button like those found on Apple’s cases.

First Published: Oct 14 2024 | 10:54 AM IST



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