As of December 18, Apple has officially discontinued iCloud backup support for devices running iOS 8 or earlier. To continue using iCloud backups, devices must now be updated to iOS 9 or later. This change was initially announced to Apple users in November, urging those with older devices to prepare for the update.
What This Means for Older Devices
If you’re still using iOS 8 or an earlier version, iCloud backups are no longer an option. However, there’s a workaround: you can create manual backups using a Mac or a Windows PC. For devices that support an update beyond iOS 8, upgrading the software will restore iCloud backup functionality.
Compatibility With the Latest iOS and iPadOS Versions
The most current version of iOS, iOS 18.2, is packed with new features and performance improvements. It supports all iPhones released since the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, which debuted in 2018. For iPad users, the latest iPadOS 18.2 is compatible with devices starting from the seventh-generation iPad (2019) and later models.
The Impact of CloudKit on iCloud Backups
Beginning with iOS 9, Apple introduced CloudKit, which serves as the backbone of iCloud backups. This innovative framework has significantly improved how developers manage app data and user interactions, providing a more secure and seamless experience.
Key Features of CloudKit
Secure Data Storage CloudKit ensures app data is stored securely in iCloud, enabling users to access information across multiple devices effortlessly. Developers can choose between public and private databases to control data visibility and protect sensitive user information.
User Authentication By leveraging Apple ID credentials, CloudKit simplifies user authentication. This eliminates the need for users to create new accounts or remember extra passwords, making app engagement quicker and easier.
Flexible Data Management CloudKit allows developers to incorporate both collaborative and private features into their apps. This flexibility ensures that shared data is accessible while sensitive information remains protected.
Should You Upgrade Your Device?
If you own an iPhone or iPad released in the last few years, this update won’t affect you. However, for those using older devices, it might be the perfect time to explore the latest Apple products. Upgrading to a newer device will not only ensure compatibility with iCloud but also provide access to the latest features, security updates, and performance improvements.
A recent report from France has revealed that Apple will cease sales of the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE models in the European Union. The affected devices will be removed from both Apple’s online and offline stores by December 28, with Apple Authorized Retailers in the EU allowed to continue selling the remaining inventory until it is exhausted.
This move is in response to a new EU regulation that mandates all newly sold smartphones with wired charging to adopt USB-C ports. The iPhone 14 series and iPhone SE are the last models still available in the EU that utilize the Lightning port, which is incompatible with the new regulation. As a result, Apple is required to phase out these devices to comply with the updated standards.
In addition to the iPhones, Apple will also halt the sale of other products featuring the Lightning port, such as the Magic Keyboard without Touch ID. Notably, this change will extend to Northern Ireland, despite the United Kingdom having left the EU in 2020, due to Northern Ireland’s adherence to EU regulations as part of the Brexit agreement.
The same regulation will affect Switzerland, where the iPhones and other Lightning-equipped products will be removed from sale by December 20, even earlier than in the EU. This decision comes after internal communications from Apple, which have been reported to detail these changes.
Typically, Apple would have phased out the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus models next September, as part of its usual product refresh cycle. However, the new regulation has expedited the process. As for the iPhone SE, while its discontinuation is noteworthy, it is expected to be replaced by a new model in the coming year, so its removal is not anticipated to be a significant loss for Apple or its customers.
The Magic Mouse has remained relatively unchanged for a long time, with only incremental updates such as the removal of AA batteries and the addition of a USB-C port. However, Apple is reportedly preparing for a significant redesign of its iconic mouse. In his Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman reveals that Apple has begun working on prototypes for a more modern version of the Magic Mouse, which originally debuted back in 2009.
Over the years, the Magic Mouse has garnered praise, particularly for its innovative gesture controls, which allow users to swipe and scroll in an intuitive way. Despite this, the design has been a frequent subject of criticism, especially for its lack of ergonomic support and the inconvenient placement of the charging port on the underside of the mouse. These issues have left many users hoping for a more comfortable and functional version.
Though the details of the redesign remain unclear, it seems Apple is finally addressing these long-standing concerns. According to Gurman, the company is focused on making the new version “more relevant,” while also “fixing longstanding complaints”—most notably the controversial charging port issue, which has been a point of contention ever since the mouse’s release. Users have long found it frustrating to charge the device while it’s in use, given that the charging port is located on the bottom of the mouse, making it essentially unusable while charging.
Despite these promising updates, we may still be a ways off from seeing the new Magic Mouse on store shelves. Gurman suggests that it could take anywhere from a year to 18 months for the revamped version to reach the market. In the meantime, users will have to make do with the current model, though it’s clear that Apple is committed to refining and improving the design based on user feedback.
If the new Magic Mouse addresses these key pain points, it could mark a major improvement for users who have been waiting for a more comfortable, practical, and modern version of Apple’s mouse.
Long before the iPhone 16’s official release, there were whispers that Apple would adopt a side-by-side camera layout, aimed at enhancing the phone’s ability to capture spatial video across all three lenses. However, that didn’t materialize with the iPhone 16. Now, a trusted leaker suggests that this horizontal camera bump will be introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro.
Will the iPhone 17 Pro adopt a horizontal camera design?
The leaker behind this prediction is Weibo user Digital Chat Station, who has gained a reliable reputation for previous leaks, including accurate information about the telephoto lens and larger sensor size in the iPhone 16 Pro. Their track record adds credibility to the claim that the iPhone 17 Pro may indeed adopt a horizontal camera arrangement for all three lenses.
While the exact ordering of the three lenses remains unclear, the leaker suggests that the horizontal bump will house all of them side by side, as opposed to the vertical stack we’ve seen in prior models. This shift would align with trends in the smartphone industry, where many Android devices are embracing similar layouts for their camera systems.
Meanwhile, a post on Weibo shows an image that it claims is a bare metal frame from the iPhone supply chain. The cameras will be located in the top area, with the ultra-wide-angle lens in the middle (this is the thinnest module, so it helps leave enough space for the Face ID hardware on the other side).
Industry Trends: Android’s Horizontal Camera Bump
It’s important to note that this isn’t the first time we’ve seen a horizontal camera setup. Google’s Pixel 9 Pro, which is expected to debut with a horizontal camera bar, is one such example. Some industry insiders predict that other Android brands will soon follow suit, making this a broader trend in smartphone design.
Interestingly, some commenters point to the Chinese brand Meizu, which introduced a horizontal camera setup in its earlier models. However, in Meizu’s case, the lenses were aligned horizontally rather than stacked, which some believe is a more logical approach, especially considering that most photos and videos are taken in landscape mode. This orientation could enhance usability and aesthetics, making it easier for users to frame shots in both portrait and landscape orientations.
Material Choices: Titanium vs. Aluminum for iPhone 17 Pro
Another report recently suggested that Apple may move away from titanium in favor of aluminum for the iPhone 17 Pro. This potential change has raised eyebrows, especially given the premium nature of titanium, which was introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro models. However, some believe this could be a simple misunderstanding or misinterpretation of the terminology being used. Whether the iPhone 17 Pro retains titanium or switches to aluminum, the decision will likely have implications for the device’s durability and overall feel.
Apple plans to introduce satellite connectivity to its Apple Watch in 2025 and is advancing work on a blood-pressure feature, according to Bloomberg News. These developments highlight Apple’s focus on enhancing both connectivity and health monitoring in its wearable devices.
Satellite Connectivity for Apple Watch
Apple is reportedly working to bring satellite texting to the next Apple Watch Ultra model. This would make it the first Apple Watch to include satellite connectivity, enabling users to send messages without Wi-Fi or cellular networks, as long as there is a clear view of the sky. The Ultra model is a logical choice for this feature due to its longer battery life compared to other Apple Watch models. This functionality could prove especially useful for users in remote areas or in situations where an iPhone is unavailable.
Health Monitoring Features
Apple is also developing a blood-pressure detection feature for the Apple Watch, designed to identify signs of hypertension without offering precise measurements. Additionally, the company is progressing toward noninvasive blood-glucose tracking, although that capability is still years away. These features build on the Apple Watch’s role as a health tool, which already includes functions like detecting sleep apnea and responding to emergencies.
Modem Technology Upgrade
The Apple Watch is expected to transition from Intel to MediaTek modems, which could introduce lower-tier 5G connectivity. Despite the ongoing development of an Apple-designed modem for iPhones, there are no current plans to bring this technology to the Apple Watch.
These advancements reflect Apple’s strategy to enhance the functionality of its smartwatch, focusing on user connectivity and health insights.Apple has been working to add more health-focused capabilities to its products.
At June’s Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple unveiled Apple Intelligence, its new generative AI system designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and communication across its ecosystem. After a modest rollout in October, Apple is now preparing to introduce a wider range of features with iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS 15.2. These updates bring tools like Genmoji, Image Playground, and ChatGPT integration, significantly expanding the AI capabilities of Apple’s devices.
Getting Started with Apple Intelligence
To explore Apple Intelligence, follow these steps: Ensure You Have an Eligible Device: Apple Intelligence is supported on iPhone 16 models, last year’s iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, and devices running iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, or macOS 15.1.
Enroll in the Beta Program: Join the waitlist via the Settings app. Approval is typically fast, often taking just a few hours. Once approved, a notification will guide you to activate the features. By meeting these requirements, you’ll be ready to access Apple Intelligence and its exciting new functionalities.
Upcoming Features in iOS 18.2
Scheduled for a December release, iOS 18.2 (and its sibling OS upgrades) introduces several highly anticipated features. If you’re using the developer beta, you can try them now: Genmoji: Create custom emojis from your photos or descriptions. For example, you could turn a picture of a friend into an emoji or generate one based on keywords like “a smiling dog in sunglasses.”
Image Playground: This tool allows you to create imaginative images effortlessly. You can transform yourself into a cartoon character or describe a scene, and the AI will generate an image for you.
ChatGPT Integration: Siri and Writing Tools now incorporate ChatGPT to assist with complex tasks. For example, Siri can use ChatGPT to summarize documents or answer detailed queries. Apple prioritizes privacy, ensuring your data is only shared with explicit permission and remains under your control.
Priority Notifications: Notifications will now be prioritized based on importance. Critical alerts, like upcoming appointments or reminders for significant events, will appear at the top of your notifications.
Visual Intelligence (Exclusive to iPhone 16 Models): A new Camera Control button lets you interact with objects or locations in real-time. For instance, you can translate a sign into your preferred language or learn about a nearby landmark by simply pointing your camera at it and pressing the button.
What’s Coming in 2025
Apple Intelligence will continue to evolve, with key updates planned for 2025: On-Screen Awareness for Siri: Siri will gain the ability to act based on what’s displayed on your screen. For example, if a friend texts you their new email address, you can ask Siri to save it directly to their contact card. Similarly, Siri can quickly add events or reminders from texts to your calendar.
Further Siri Enhancements: Siri will feature richer conversational abilities, allowing for seamless interactions even if your thoughts jump between topics. Additionally, a glowing-edge interface will provide a more intuitive activation experience.
What Is Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s proprietary generative AI system, integrated into eligible devices to simplify tasks like writing, organizing, and creative projects. It uses personal context to deliver tailored assistance while ensuring your privacy. Key points about Apple Intelligence:
It is built into iPhones, iPads, and Macs running the latest operating systems.
ChatGPT is integrated for advanced functionality, but its use is optional and requires case-by-case permission.
Apple emphasizes that no one, not even Apple employees, can access your personal data without your consent.
Features Already Available
Even before the iOS 18.2 update, Apple Intelligence offers several features for eligible devices running iOS 18.1 or later: Photos App Enhancements:
A new Clean Up tool lets you remove unwanted elements from photos with a single tap. For example, erase strangers from a group photo or a messy object in the background.
Advanced search allows you to find images by description. For instance, search for “a sunset over mountains” to locate relevant pictures in your library.
Writing Tools: These tools assist with proofreading, rewriting, and summarizing text. Whether you’re drafting an email or summarizing an article, Writing Tools can provide polished and concise results.
Summarized Notifications: Receive condensed summaries of daily notifications, helping you quickly identify and prioritize important messages.
Improved Siri: Siri now offers enhanced conversational abilities and the flexibility to switch between voice commands and typing. Its improved natural language processing makes it easier to handle complex requests.
Regional and Language Support
Apple Intelligence is expanding its reach globally: Current Availability: Siri must be set to US English, which works in most regions worldwide.
December 2024: Apple will add English language support for Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK.
April 2025: EU users will gain full access to Apple Intelligence on iPhones and iPads.
2025 Expansion: Support for additional languages, including Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish, and more, is expected by late 2025.
Although the iPhone 18 won’t hit shelves until late 2026, early leaks are already fueling excitement and concerns. Among the most notable rumors is Apple’s adoption of a new 2nm A20 chip, which could lead to significant price increases.
Well-known tipster Jukanlosreve shared a post on X that stated that plans for Apple’s 2nm A20 chip are finalized, but that the cost of each processor is expected to jump from $50 to around $85.This 70% increase could lead to higher retail prices for consumers,the iPhone 18 could be one of the most expensive iPhones yet, though Apple’s final pricing strategy remains uncertain.
On the bright side, the advanced chip is expected to deliver better performance, improved energy efficiency, and a smaller footprint.This new chip manufacturing method could potentially reduce the overall size of the 2nm chip and improve both its performance and energy efficiency. The iPhone 18 could also end up with a smaller Dynamic Island because of an under-screen Face ID sensor, Android Authority theorizes. This would give the handset a more stylish, streamlined look and could potentially allow room for another rumored change — a variable wide-angle lens for the camera.
However, all these details are speculative.The iPhone 18 is likely nearly two years away, and a lot can change during that time.Supply chain hurdles and shifting priorities may impact the final product, so these early reports should be taken with a grain of caution.
In the world of laptops and 2-in-1 devices, many manufacturers now offer cellular connectivity as a standard feature. For users who need to stay connected at all times, an integrated 5G modem, complementing traditional Wi-Fi, is a critical capability. However, MacBook Pro users are left out of this trend.
Apple’s Modem Expansion Plans
Apple has consistently avoided adding cellular connectivity to its MacBook lineup, even as it becomes a premium feature in many Windows laptops. Instead, Apple relies on the seamless ability of macOS devices to tether via an iPhone hotspot. While this approach works well for users already in the Apple ecosystem, it does not address the demand for built-in 5G—a feature valued by professionals and frequent travelers.
This gap in Apple’s offerings may soon change. The company’s $1 billion acquisition of Intel’s modem division in 2019 appears to be bearing fruit, starting with the upcoming iPhone SE. Expected to be the first Apple product featuring an in-house modem, the iPhone SE will compete in the mid-range smartphone market, albeit with specifications slightly below Qualcomm’s equivalents.
Apple’s plans for its modem technology don’t stop at the iPhone SE. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter, Apple intends to expand the modem’s use to other product lines. Lower-end iPads are expected to follow, serving as a testbed for the new technology.
Interestingly, Apple is strategically introducing its modem in lower-priced, consumer-focused devices, rather than its flagship products. This cautious approach allows Apple to fine-tune its technology before rolling it out to its premium hardware.
When Will the MacBook Pro Finally Get 5G?
Once the iPhone and iPad adoption proves successful, Apple is expected to bring its home-grown modem to the Mac lineup. The MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are likely candidates to receive this feature, finally bringing Apple’s laptops in line with the 5G-equipped devices offered by Windows manufacturers.
When this happens, Apple will address a long-standing demand for a fully connected MacBook, positioning its laptops as viable options for professionals who require always-on connectivity. Until then, Windows laptops continue to hold a key advantage in this area.
Yesterday, Apple released the release candidates for all of its major operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, HomePod Software, and visionOS. This marks the final preparation phase for the significant operating system updates scheduled for release later this year.
For most users, the update process will proceed automatically, with devices updating at Apple’s discretion.
Which Devices Will Receive Updates?
All major Apple devices, excluding AirPods, will receive software updates, including the following:
While Apple has not provided an official release date, historical trends and recent actions offer clues. Yesterday, Apple made the release candidates available, which suggests that the final updates are imminent, barring any unexpected delays.
Historically, Apple has released updates for the past few years on the following dates:
iOS 17.2: Monday, Dec. 11, 2023
iOS 16.2: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022
iOS 15.2: Monday, Dec. 13, 2021
Based on this pattern, it is reasonable to expect the updates to be available on Monday or Tuesday next week.
As for the timing of the release, updates typically become available around 10:00 AM PT / 1:00 PM ET / 5:00 AM AEDT (the following day). However, it may take some time for the updates to propagate across all devices, depending on server demand.
Preparing Your Apple Devices for the Update
Updating iOS and iPadOS
To ensure a smooth update process, consider the following preparations:
Update Your Apps: Ensure all your apps are up-to-date.
Free Up Space: Ensure there is adequate free storage (a few gigabytes).
Back Up Your Data: Perform an iCloud backup to safeguard your data.
Charge Your Devices: Fully charge your device or keep it plugged into a power source during the update process.
Connect to a Reliable Wi-Fi Network: Ensure you are connected to a stable and fast Wi-Fi network.
To initiate the update, go to Settings > General > Software Update, where any available updates will be displayed.
Updating macOS
The key consideration when updating macOS is ensuring that your data is properly backed up, as updates can occasionally cause unexpected issues.
Back Up Your Mac: Use Time Machine or another backup solution.
Charge Your Mac: Ensure your device is fully charged or connected to a power source.
Connect to a Reliable Wi-Fi Network: A stable connection is crucial for a smooth update.
To initiate the update, click the Apple Menu in the top-left corner, then select System Settings > General > Software Update. For older macOS versions, click System Preferences > Software Update.
Updating tvOS
The update process for Apple TV is relatively straightforward.
Automatic Updates
You can configure your Apple TV to update automatically by navigating to Settings > System > Software Updates and enabling Automatically Update.
Manual Updates
To manually update your Apple TV, go to Settings > System > Software Updates and select Update Software.
Updating watchOS
If you prefer to manage your Apple Watch updates manually, you can control the process through the Watch app on your connected iPhone.
Ensure that your Apple Watch is on its charger and remains near the paired iPhone during the update.No backup is necessary before updating.To begin the update, open the Watch app on your iPhone, navigate to My Watch > General > Software Update, and select the available update.
Updating HomePod
HomePods and HomePod minis typically update automatically. There is no need for manual intervention, nor is a backup required.
Manual Update
If you prefer to check for updates manually, use the Home app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac:
Open the Home app.
Tap the More button, then go to Home Settings > Software Update.
Updating visionOS
For Vision Pro users, it is highly recommended to back up your device before updating to avoid potential loss of settings or data. Additionally, ensure the device is connected to a power source throughout the update process.
To update visionOS, go to Settings > General > Software Update and select the available update.
Apple is using artificial intelligence processors from Amazon Web Services to build and power some Apple Intelligence and other services.
While Apple has long used AWS for services like iCloud and Apple One, this relationship now includes AI, with Apple tapping into AWS’s cutting-edge processors to enhance its own offerings.Apple is also testing advanced AWS chips to pretrain some of its AI models as it continues its rapid pivot toward becoming the world’s most widely deployed AI platform.
Not a new relationship
Apple has used AWS servers for years, in part to drive its iCloud and Apple One services and to scale additional capacity at times of peak demand. “One of the unique elements of Apple’s business is the scale at which we operate, and the speed with which we innovate. AWS has been able to keep the pace,” Dupin said.
One of the standout features of this partnership is Apple’s use of AWS’s advanced chips. Dupin shared that Apple is using AWS’s Graviton and Inferentia processors for machine learning tasks, such as search and streaming. The results have been impressive, with a 40% improvement in efficiency compared to older systems. Apple is also exploring AWS’s Trainium 2 chips for pretraining its AI models, expecting a 50% jump in efficiency. These kinds of gains are essential for keeping Apple’s AI projects fast, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
AWS Powers Apple Intelligence
On the AWS connection to Apple Intelligence, he explained: “To develop Apple Intelligence, we needed to further scale our infrastructure for training.” As a result, Apple turned to AWS because the service could provide access to the most performant accelerators in quantity.
Dupin revealed that key areas where Apple uses Amazon’s services include fine-tuning AI models, optimizing trained models to fit on small devices, and “building and finalizing our Apple Intelligence adapters, ready to deploy on Apple devices and servers”.This collaboration allows Apple to roll out powerful new features seamlessly, whether they’re running on an iPhone, Mac, or iPad.
Apple Intelligence is a work in progress and the company is already developing additional services and feature improvements.As Apple expand the capabilities and feature of Apple Intelligence, the company will continue to depend on the scalable, efficient, high-performance accelerator technologies AWS delivers.
The Future of AI and Apple’s Ambitions
It’s clear that Apple’s increasing reliance on AI is part of a long-term plan. While CEO Tim Cook hasn’t shared specific details, he’s made it clear that the company is deeply committed to projects that are “years in the making.” Meanwhile, AWS is positioning itself as a strong alternative to Nvidia, offering AI processors that are both powerful and cost-effective.
But Apple being Apple, there’s always the question of whether it will eventually take this expertise in-house. With its track record of designing innovative hardware like Apple Silicon, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Apple developing its own server processors down the road to gain even more control over its AI systems.
