Author: Editor

Apple has officially expanded the availability of its Vision Pro headset to five more countries: Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK. This marks a significant step in the global rollout of the spatial computing device, which was initially available only in the United States.

Key Takeaways

• Vision Pro is now available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK.
• The global rollout began on June 14, with pre-orders opening in three countries.
• The first customers in China, Japan, and Singapore received their units on June 28.
• The device was first announced at WWDC 2023 and went on sale in the U.S. earlier this year.
• IDC suggests that most potential U.S. customers have already purchased the device.

Global Rollout Details

The Vision Pro was first announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2023. However, it didn’t go on sale until this year, initially limited to the U.S. market. Pre-orders in the U.S. opened in January, and the first units were available on February 2.

Last month, Apple announced that the global rollout would begin with China, Japan, and Singapore. The first customers in these countries received their units on June 28. On the same date, pre-orders opened in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK. As of today, the Vision Pro is available for purchase in these five additional countries.

Market Impact

The expansion to more countries is expected to boost sales of the Vision Pro, although the extent of this increase remains uncertain. According to IDC, most potential customers in the U.S. have already bought the device, and the firm expects sales to decline sharply this quarter.

Purchasing Experience

In the UK, testing the purchase process revealed that in-store pickup was not available, but delivery was possible within two days. This suggests that Apple is focusing on ensuring a smooth delivery experience for its customers in the newly added countries.

Conclusion

The expansion of Vision Pro to more countries marks a significant milestone for Apple as it continues to push the boundaries of spatial computing. Whether this will lead to a substantial increase in sales remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly opens up new markets for the innovative device.

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Sources

• Vision Pro available today in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and UK, 9to5Mac.

Apple has recently adjusted the trade-in values for several of its popular products, including the iPhone 14 series and various Mac models. The reductions range from $10 to $20 for iPhones and up to $90 for Macs, reflecting the company’s periodic updates to its trade-in program.

Key Takeaways

• iPhone 14 Pro Max: Up to $620 (previously $630)
• iPhone 14 Plus: Up to $400 (previously $420)
• Apple Watch Ultra: Up to $355 (previously $360)
• Apple Watch SE (2nd generation): Up to $90 (previously $110)
• Apple Watch Series 7: Up to $125 (previously $140)
• MacBook Pro: Up to $925 (previously $1,010)
• MacBook Air: Up to $485 (previously $525)
• MacBook: Up to $130 (previously $145)
• iMac: Up to $330 (previously $420)
• iPad Pro: Up to $565 (previously $580)
• iPad: Up to $225 (previously $250)

Overview of Changes

Apple’s trade-in program allows customers to exchange their old devices for credit towards new purchases or opt for recycling. The recent adjustments have seen minor reductions in trade-in values for several devices, with the most significant cuts affecting Mac models.

For instance, the trade-in value for the iPhone 14 Pro Max has been reduced by $10, now offering up to $620. Similarly, the iPhone 14 Plus has seen a $20 reduction, bringing its trade-in value to $400. The Apple Watch Ultra’s trade-in value has been cut by $5, now standing at $355.

Impact on Mac Trade-In Values

The most substantial reductions are seen in the Mac lineup. The MacBook Pro’s trade-in value has dropped by $85, now offering up to $925. The MacBook Air has seen a $40 reduction, with a new trade-in value of $485. The iMac has experienced the largest cut, with its trade-in value reduced by $90, now standing at $330.

Other Affected Devices

In addition to iPhones and Macs, other Apple devices have also seen reductions in their trade-in values. The iPad Pro’s value has been cut by $15, now offering up to $565. The regular iPad has seen a $25 reduction, bringing its trade-in value to $225.

Periodic Adjustments and Promotions

Apple periodically adjusts trade-in values to reflect the market and the age of the devices. While these adjustments generally result in lower trade-in values over time, there are instances where Apple increases the trade-in value or offers promotions. For example, earlier this year, Apple offered better trade-in deals for customers purchasing an iPhone 15 or any new iPhone model.

Conclusion

While the recent reductions in trade-in values may be disappointing for some, Apple’s trade-in program remains a convenient option for those looking to upgrade their devices. Customers can still get more value by selling their devices privately or through third-party services, but many prefer the simplicity and seamless process offered by Apple’s trade-in program.

For the latest trade-in values, customers can visit Apple’s official website.

Sources

• Apple trade-in values cut by $10-20 for iPhone; up to $90 for Mac – 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac.
• Apple slashes trade-in values of some of its most popular products including iPhone 14 and MacBook Pro | iMore, iMore.

Samsung’s recent Galaxy Unpacked event has sparked controversy, with critics accusing the tech giant of mimicking Apple’s product designs. The event showcased new smartphones, smartwatches, and earbuds, but the similarities between Samsung’s new offerings and Apple’s products have drawn significant attention and criticism.

Key Takeaways

• Samsung unveiled new products at its Galaxy Unpacked event, including the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Buds 3 series.
• Critics claim these new products closely resemble Apple’s Apple Watch Ultra and AirPods, respectively.
• The controversy has overshadowed other announcements from the event, such as Samsung’s new foldable smartphones.

Samsung’s New Releases

At the Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung introduced a range of new products, including the Galaxy Watch Ultra smartwatch and the Galaxy Buds 3 series of earbuds. These products were expected to compete with Apple’s Apple Watch Ultra and AirPods. However, many observers noted striking similarities between Samsung’s new offerings and Apple’s existing products.

Accusations of Copying

Social media users, tech reviewers, and journalists have been vocal about their disapproval. YouTuber Quinn Nelson of Snazzy Labs described the Galaxy Watch Ultra as "the most shameless copy of an Apple product in ages." Similarly, the Galaxy Buds 3 series has been criticized for its resemblance to Apple’s AirPods.

Design Similarities

The Galaxy Watch Ultra features a titanium case, an orange "Quick Button," and a "marine" band option, which are strikingly similar to the Apple Watch Ultra’s design elements. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Galaxy Buds 3 also bear a close resemblance to Apple’s AirPods, both in form and function.

Media Reactions

News outlets like The Verge and Business Insider have also highlighted the similarities. Business Insider’s headline read, "Samsung’s new ‘Ultra’ watch and earbuds are shameless Apple copycats," while The Verge criticized the Galaxy Buds 3 for their "AirPods-esque" design.

Samsung’s Response

In response to the criticism, Samsung stated that the design choices for its new smartwatch and earbuds were made to ensure comfort, usability, and durability. However, the company did not address the accusations of copying Apple’s designs.

Other Announcements

Despite the controversy, Samsung also unveiled other innovative products at the event, including new iterations of its foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip. These products represent areas where Samsung continues to lead in innovation, as Apple has yet to release its own foldable devices.

Conclusion

While Samsung’s new products have generated excitement, the accusations of copying Apple have overshadowed the event. The controversy highlights the ongoing competition between the two tech giants and raises questions about originality and innovation in the tech industry.

Sources

• Samsung criticized for ‘cloning’ Apple products after Galaxy Unpacked event | Mashable, Mashable.
• Samsung’s new ‘Ultra’ watch and earbuds are shameless Apple copycats, Business Insider.

Apple has removed 25 virtual private network (VPN) apps from its Russian App Store following a request from Russia’s state communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor. This move is part of a broader effort by the Russian government to control internet access and content within the country, especially since the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war in 2022.

Key Takeaways

• Apple removed 25 VPN apps from its Russian App Store on July 4, 2024, following a request from Roskomnadzor.
• The affected VPN services include NordVPN, Proton VPN, Red Shield VPN, Planet VPN, Hidemy.Name VPN, Le VPN, and PIA VPN.
• The removal is part of Russia’s ongoing efforts to control internet access and content within its territory.
• VPN services have been included in the "Unified register" of internet resources prohibited for public distribution in Russia.
• The crackdown on VPNs has intensified since the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war in February 2022.

Background

The demand for VPN services in Russia surged after President Vladimir Putin ordered troops into Ukraine in 2022, leading to restrictions on access to some Western social media platforms. VPNs have been a crucial tool for Russian users to circumvent these restrictions and access blocked content.

Roskomnadzor has been increasingly targeting VPN applications since the invasion of Ukraine. This latest move to remove VPN apps from the App Store is part of a broader and older effort to block access to such services. In July 2017, Putin signed a bill banning VPNs, proxies, and Tor, but enforcement only began in March 2019.

Impact on VPN Providers

The affected VPN providers have expressed their discontent with Apple’s decision. Red Shield VPN stated that Apple’s actions support an authoritarian regime and are a crime against civil society. Le VPN mentioned that the takedown was carried out in accordance with Russian federal law and that their app was removed even before receiving an official notice from Roskomnadzor.

To counter the crackdown, Le VPN has launched an alternative service called Le VPN Give, which allows users to connect to secret servers using third-party open-source software and obfuscated VPN connections.

Broader Implications

This development is part of a series of censorship moves by the Kremlin since the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war. Several media outlets and social media apps, including Facebook, Instagram, and X, have been blocked in Russia. The removal of VPN apps from the App Store is another step in Roskomnadzor’s ongoing efforts to control internet access and content within Russian territory.

Conclusion

Apple’s decision to remove VPN apps from its Russian App Store highlights the increasing pressure tech companies face from authoritarian regimes. While the move may help Apple retain revenue from the Russian market, it raises significant concerns about internet freedom and the role of tech companies in supporting or resisting government censorship efforts.

Sources

• Apple Removes VPN Apps from Russian App Store Amid Government Pressure, The Hacker News.
• Russia forces Apple to remove dozens of VPN apps from App Store, BleepingComputer.
• Russia says Apple blocks 25 VPN apps in Russia, IFX reports | Reuters, Reuters.
• Apple removes VPN apps at request of Russian authorities, say app makers | TechCrunch, TechCrunch.

Apple has announced the permanent closure of its retail store at the Väla Centrum shopping mall near Helsingborg, Sweden, effective after July 13. This decision will leave Sweden with only two Apple Stores, as the company plans to open a new location at the Mall of Scandinavia near Stockholm later this year.

Key Takeaways

• Apple Väla Centrum store near Helsingborg, Sweden, will close permanently after July 13.
• Sweden will be left with only two Apple Stores until the new Mall of Scandinavia location opens.
• Customers in Helsingborg will need to travel to Malmö, about an hour away, for the nearest Apple Store.

Apple Väla Centrum Closure

The Apple Store at Väla Centrum, one of only three Apple retail locations in Sweden, will close its doors permanently after July 13. The closure was initially announced in January, but the specific date was only recently confirmed. The store, which has been in operation for nearly 11 years, will leave a significant gap for Apple customers in the Helsingborg area.

New Store at Mall of Scandinavia

While the Väla Centrum store is closing, Apple has plans to open a new retail location at the Mall of Scandinavia near Stockholm. However, the grand opening date for this new store has not yet been announced. This new location aims to serve the Stockholm area and potentially attract customers from other parts of Sweden.

Impact on Customers

The closure of the Väla Centrum store means that customers in the Helsingborg area will now have to travel approximately one hour to reach the nearest Apple Store in Malmö. This could be inconvenient for many, especially those who rely on the store for purchasing and servicing Apple products.

Historical Context

Apple’s presence in Sweden has been relatively limited, with only three retail locations in the country. The Väla Centrum store was the newest of the three, making its closure somewhat surprising. Nearly a decade ago, Apple attempted to open a flagship store in Stockholm but faced opposition from local leaders, leading to the project’s cancellation.

Future Outlook

Despite the closure, Apple remains committed to serving its Swedish customers. The upcoming store at the Mall of Scandinavia is expected to offer a modern and comprehensive retail experience. Until then, customers will have to rely on the remaining stores in Malmö and Täby for their Apple needs.

For more updates on Apple’s retail strategy and new store openings, stay tuned to our coverage.

Sources

• Apple Store in Southern Sweden Permanently Closing Later This Week – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• One of only three Swedish Apple Stores is permanently closing – 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac.

In a significant development, Apple has approved the Epic Games Store for iPhones and iPads in the European Union. This decision comes after a series of rejections and public disputes between the two companies, marking a notable shift in Apple’s stance on third-party app stores under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Key Takeaways

• Apple has approved the Epic Games Store for iOS devices in the EU.
• The approval follows multiple rejections and public disputes between Apple and Epic Games.
• The decision is influenced by the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which mandates more open app ecosystems.

Background

Apple and Epic Games have been embroiled in a legal and public battle since 2020, primarily over Apple’s App Store policies and the 30% commission it charges on in-app purchases. Epic Games, the developer behind popular games like Fortnite, has been pushing for more open app ecosystems, which led to the creation of its own app store.

Initial Rejections

Earlier this week, Epic Games announced that Apple had rejected its submission for the Epic Games Store twice. The rejections were reportedly due to the design and labeling of certain buttons, which Apple claimed were too similar to those used in its own App Store. Epic argued that these rejections were arbitrary and obstructive, and in violation of the DMA.

Public Dispute

Epic Games took to social media to voice its frustrations, stating that Apple’s rejections were hindering its efforts to launch the Epic Games Store in the EU. The company also reported the issue to the European Commission, which is responsible for enforcing the DMA. This public callout appears to have played a role in Apple’s decision to approve the app.

Apple’s Change of Heart

Later the same day, Apple reversed its decision and approved the Epic Games Store. However, Apple has requested that Epic make changes to the design of the buttons in a future update. This approval is seen as a temporary measure, with Apple indicating that it expects compliance with its guidelines in subsequent submissions.

Impact of the Digital Markets Act

The DMA, which came into force in March 2024, aims to create a more competitive digital market by reducing the dominance of major tech companies. One of its key provisions is the requirement for platforms like iOS to allow third-party app stores. Apple’s approval of the Epic Games Store is a direct result of these new regulations.

Future Implications

While the approval of the Epic Games Store is a significant win for Epic, it also sets a precedent for other developers seeking to launch alternative app stores on iOS. This move could lead to a more diverse app ecosystem, benefiting both developers and consumers. However, the ongoing adjustments and compliance requirements indicate that the relationship between Apple and third-party developers will continue to evolve.

Conclusion

Apple’s approval of the Epic Games Store for iOS devices in the EU marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle between the two companies. Influenced by the DMA, this decision could pave the way for a more open and competitive app market, although challenges and adjustments are likely to continue.

Sources

• Apple Approves Epic Games Store for iPhone and iPad in EU – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• Apple okays Epic Games marketplace app in Europe | Reuters, Reuters.
• Apple approves Epic Games Store for iOS, AppleInsider.
• Epic says that Apple has accepted its third-party app store, Engadget.
• Apple okays Epic Games marketplace app in Europe, Yahoo Finance.

Apple has launched its annual "Back to School" promotion in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Mexico, offering significant discounts and special deals for higher education students and educators. The promotion includes gift cards, free accessories, and educational discounts on a range of Apple products.

Key Takeaways

• Promotion available in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Mexico
• Up to £120 Apple gift card with select Mac and iPad purchases in the UK
• Free AirPods or Apple Pencil with purchases in other regions
• Standard educational discounts and 20% off AppleCare+
• Verification through UNiDAYS required in many countries
• Promotion ends October 21, 2024, in most regions

Promotion Details

Apple’s Back to School promotion is now live in most countries in Europe, select countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Mexico. Higher education students and educators in the UK can receive up to a £120 Apple gift card with the purchase of select Macs and iPads. This offer mirrors the deal that was available in the United States and Canada last month.

In the UK, Apple is offering a £120 gift card with any new MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or iMac, and a £80 gift card with the purchase of any new M4 iPad Pro, M2 iPad Air, or Mac mini. The gift card can be used towards purchases of Apple products and accessories, App Store apps, subscriptions to services like Apple Music, iCloud+ storage, and more.

Offers in Other Regions

In most other countries participating in the promotion, Apple is providing free AirPods with every Mac purchase or an Apple Pencil with every iPad purchase through its education stores. Additionally, Apple is offering its standard educational discounts, allowing students to get lower prices on Macs and iPads through the EDU store in each country. Students are also eligible for AppleCare+ at a 20% discount.

Verification and Terms

To take advantage of these offers, students and educators must verify their status through UNiDAYS in many countries. Full terms and conditions are available on the promotional pages for Apple’s country-specific websites.

Promotion Duration

Apple’s Back to School promotion will run through October 21, 2024, in most of the participating countries. However, the promotion will end in September in some locations, such as Mexico.

This annual promotion is a great opportunity for students and educators to get their hands on the latest Apple technology at a discounted price, along with some added perks.

Sources

• Apple’s Back to School Sale Live in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East – MacRumors, MacRumors.

Apple Inc. is set to gain an observer role on OpenAI’s board as part of a groundbreaking agreement, further solidifying the partnership between the tech giant and the leading AI startup. Phil Schiller, head of Apple’s App Store and former marketing chief, has been selected for this role, which will commence later this year.

Key Takeaways

• Apple to gain an observer role on OpenAI’s board.
• Phil Schiller chosen for the observer position.
• The partnership includes integrating ChatGPT into Apple devices.
• No financial transactions involved in the agreement.
• Apple and Microsoft to have similar board observer roles at OpenAI.

Apple’s Strategic Move

Apple’s decision to secure an observer role on OpenAI’s board marks a significant step in its AI strategy. The role, which allows attendance at board meetings without voting rights, will provide Apple with valuable insights into OpenAI’s decision-making processes. This move aligns Apple with Microsoft, OpenAI’s largest backer, which also holds a similar observer position.

Phil Schiller, a veteran at Apple, will represent the company in this capacity. Although he won’t have voting rights, his presence will enable Apple to stay informed about OpenAI’s future AI initiatives and developments.

Integration of ChatGPT

The partnership between Apple and OpenAI will see the integration of ChatGPT into Apple’s iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. This integration will enhance Apple’s AI capabilities, allowing Siri to handle more complex user requests by leveraging ChatGPT’s advanced functionalities. Users will need to grant explicit permission for Siri to utilize ChatGPT.

No Financial Transactions

Interestingly, the agreement between Apple and OpenAI does not involve any financial transactions. Instead, OpenAI gains access to Apple’s vast user base, potentially reaching hundreds of millions of users. In return, Apple benefits from incorporating a highly sought-after chatbot feature into its devices, which could drive App Store fees through paid ChatGPT subscriptions.

Potential Complications

Having both Apple and Microsoft on OpenAI’s board could introduce complexities, especially during discussions about future AI initiatives between OpenAI and Microsoft. In such cases, Schiller may be asked to recuse himself from sensitive discussions to avoid conflicts of interest.

Apple’s Broader AI Strategy

The OpenAI partnership is a crucial component of Apple’s broader AI strategy, which includes in-house features under the banner of Apple Intelligence. These features range from summarizing articles and notifications to creating custom emojis and transcribing voice memos. A revamped version of Siri is also in the works, although many enhancements are expected to roll out next year.

Future Prospects

Apple is also in talks with other AI companies, including Alphabet’s Google, startup Anthropic, Baidu, and Alibaba, to explore additional chatbot integrations. The initial rollout of Apple Intelligence will be in American English, with plans for an international expansion.

Conclusion

Apple’s observer role on OpenAI’s board signifies a strategic alliance that could shape the future of AI integration in consumer technology. With Phil Schiller at the helm, Apple is poised to gain invaluable insights and leverage OpenAI’s cutting-edge technologies to enhance its own AI offerings.

Sources

• Apple to Get OpenAI Board Observer Role as Part of AI Agreement – Bloomberg, Bloomberg.com.
• Apple’s Phil Schiller to Serve as OpenAI Board Observer as Part of iOS 18 AI Agreement – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• Apple’s Phil Schiller to reportedly join OpenAI’s board – The Verge, The Verge.
• Apple to join OpenAI’s board in observer role, Financial Times.
• Apple to get OpenAI board observer seat for integrating ChatGPT in iOS 18. Everything we know so far | Mint, mint.

Apple has officially classified the iPhone X, original AirPods, and first-generation HomePod as ‘vintage’ products. This designation is a precursor to being labeled ‘obsolete,’ signaling the end of software updates and repair services from Apple.

Key Takeaways

• Vintage Status: iPhone X, original AirPods, and first-generation HomePod are now considered ‘vintage.’
• Repair Services: Limited repair services available for up to two more years, subject to parts availability.
• Obsolete Status: Products will be deemed ‘obsolete’ seven years after Apple stops distributing them for sale.

What Does ‘Vintage’ Mean?

Apple classifies products as ‘vintage’ when they have not been sold for more than five but less than seven years. While these products can still be serviced by Apple and authorized repair shops, the availability of parts is not guaranteed. After seven years, these products will be classified as ‘obsolete,’ meaning Apple will no longer offer any repair services.

The iPhone X: A Milestone in Smartphone Design

Released in November 2017, the iPhone X marked a significant leap in Apple’s smartphone design. It was the first iPhone to feature an edge-to-edge OLED display, Face ID, and wireless charging. The removal of the home button and the introduction of the ‘notch’ for the TrueDepth camera system were groundbreaking at the time.

Original AirPods: Pioneers of True Wireless Earbuds

Launched in December 2016, the original AirPods set a new standard for wireless earbuds. With seamless integration into Apple’s ecosystem, the AirPods featured the custom-designed W1 chip, optical sensors, and motion accelerometers. These features allowed for effortless pairing, long battery life, and automatic pausing of playback when removed from the ears.

First-Generation HomePod: Apple’s Entry into Smart Speakers

The first-generation HomePod, released in February 2018, was Apple’s initial foray into the smart speaker market. Priced at $349, it offered high-quality audio and deep integration with Apple Music and AirPlay. Despite its premium sound quality, the HomePod struggled with smart home tasks compared to competitors like Amazon’s Echo and Google’s Home speakers.

Environmental Impact and Apple’s Sustainability Efforts

The reclassification of these products highlights the issue of electronic waste. In 2022, 62 million tons of e-waste were generated globally. Apple has faced criticism in the past for contributing to this problem but has since taken steps to reduce its carbon footprint. The company now uses 100% green energy, supports ‘right to repair’ laws, and aims to eliminate all plastic from its packaging by 2025.

Conclusion

The iPhone X, original AirPods, and first-generation HomePod have all played significant roles in shaping their respective markets. As these products transition from ‘vintage’ to ‘obsolete,’ it serves as a reminder of the rapid pace of technological advancement and the importance of sustainability in the tech industry.

Sources

• Apple iPhone X and original AirPods now ‘vintage’—nearing ‘obsolete’ – Fast Company, Fast Company.
• Apple’s first HomePod, AirPods are now ‘vintage’, AppleInsider.
• Apple Reclassifies iPhone X, HomePod, and Original AirPods as ‘Vintage’ – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• This iPhone just officially became vintage according to Apple | Tom’s Guide, Tom’s Guide.
• Apple already considers the first HomePod ‘vintage’ – The Verge, The Verge.