HMD 105 and 110 feature phones launched in India with built-in UPI.
Large displays and voice assistance for enhanced user experience.
One-year replacement guarantee for both models.
Available in multiple colours with support for up to 23 languages.
HMD Globalhas entered the feature phone segment in India with the launch of its first self-branded products called HMD 105 and HMD 110 devices.
The new phones aim to provide accessible technology with a focus on enhancing the user experience while also remaining as minimalistic as possible.
A key highlight is the built-in UPI application, allowing users to perform secure UPI transactions without requiring an internet connection – combining HMD’s reliability with UPI’s convenience.
The HMD 105 and 110 come packed with multimedia features, voice assistance, and large displays promising immersive clarity and enhanced visibility.
The phones also include a one-year replacement guarantee.
Availability
HMD Launches First Feature Phones in India – HMD 105 and HMD 110
The HMD 105 will be available in black, purple and blue colour options, while the HMD 110 comes in black and green.
Both models can be purchased from retail stores, e-commerce sites, and HMD.com starting today.
Ravi Kunwar, VP-India & APAC, HMD Global, commented: “The HMD 105 and HMD 110 are our first feature phones launched in India with stylish new designs and UPI capabilities. These devices underscore our commitment to providing accessible technology. The feature-packed phones aim to bridge the digital divide and enhance financial access within our feature phone category. These phones embody our ‘more for less’ philosophy as we continue our multi-brand journey.”
Key Features
Large displays and voice assistance for enhanced user experience
Both models feature modern aesthetics with strong corners, serene curves, and textured surfaces for a comfortable in-hand feel and portability.
The phones include features like phone talker, auto call recording, MP3 player, wired and wireless FM radio, dual LED flash (HMD 105), premium camera design (HMD 110), and more.
There is a 1000mAh batteryon board that promises extended standby time of up to 18 days for uninterrupted conversations.
Available in multiple colours with support for up to 23 languages
Apart from that the HMD 105 and 110 support up to 9 local languages for input and 23 languages for rendering.
As for the rest, the 105 and 110 are as standard as feature phones tend to be in this day and age of smartphones.
However, this presence of UPI does seem to be a feature that will appeal to many people.
With their new feature phones, HMD Global aims to offer trusted reliability and innovative features to consumers in India.
FAQs
What are the key features of the HMD 105 and HMD 110?
The HMD 105 and HMD 110 feature large displays, multimedia capabilities, voice assistance, and a built-in UPI application for secure transactions without internet.
How does the UPI application work on these feature phones?
The built-in UPI application allows users to perform secure transactions without needing an internet connection, providing convenient and accessible financial services.
What colour options are available for the HMD 105 and HMD 110?
The HMD 105 is available in black, purple, and blue, while the HMD 110 comes in black and green.
What is the battery life of the HMD 105 and HMD 110?
Both models are equipped with a 1000mAh battery, offering an extended standby time of up to 18 days for uninterrupted conversations.
Prior leaks indicate the Galaxy Watch7 series could feature a new chipset, 50% faster charging, and may finally add blood sugar monitoring.
Samsung is expected to officially announce the Watch7 Ultra and other new devices at its July 10 Unpacked event in Paris.
Now these new images, courtesy of @OnLeaks, in collaboration with Smartprix, brings us our first detailed look at the next iteration of Samsung’s premium smartwatch line-up.
The most obvious thing you will pick out regarding the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra is the squarish outer bezel surrounding the circular display.
This angular look differs from the all-round approach of Galaxy Watches before it.
Still, Samsung has stuck with using a rounded display to ensure the core UI experience of the product is one and the same.
It’s a bold move, but the squarish bezel doesn’t make the watch quite so rectangular as the Apple Watch, for instance.
The rotating bezel, another loved feature from the Galaxy Watch Classic, will also still be present and is as shiny as ever, in contrast to the matte angular frame.
New Button and Larger Speakers
Galaxy Watch7 Ultra features a squarish outer bezel with a circular display
Another noticeable change is how a third physical button is sandwiched between the traditional two on the right side.
The Watch7 Ultra also appears to have larger speaker grills than before, hinting at improved audio capabilities.
Same Display, But Larger Footprint
New leak brings us some spec details for both the Watch7 and the Watch Ultra
While the roundabout display is still around 1.5 inches, similar to that of the Galaxy Watch6 Classic, the overall dimensions are slightly larger still, at roughly 47 x 47.4 x 16.4mm, thanks to the added squarish bezel.
The rotating bezel itself has subtle line markings instead of numeric indicators found previously.
Flipping to the back reveals a circular array of health sensors, with the temperature sensor shifted towards the center.
Watch Band and Battery Improvements
Samsung Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra leaked specs
Renders suggest the watch bands now integrate more seamlessly into the body.
Additionally, there are two button-like protrusions adjacent to the sensors, potentially for easier band removal compared to previous models.
FAQs
What is the most notable design change in the Samsung Galaxy Watch7 Ultra?
The most notable design change in the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra is its squarish outer bezel surrounding a circular display, offering a unique angular look while maintaining the core UI experience.
What new features does the third physical button on the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra provide?
The third physical button, located between the traditional two buttons on the right side, could offer new quick access controls similar to the Action button on the Apple Watch.
How does the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra improve audio capabilities?
The Galaxy Watch7 Ultra appears to have larger speaker grills than previous models, suggesting improved audio capabilities for better sound quality.
What are the dimensions of the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra compared to its predecessors?
The overall dimensions of the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra are slightly larger, measuring approximately 47 x 47.4 x 16.4mm, due to the added squarish bezel, while retaining a round display similar in size to the Galaxy Watch6 Classic.
What improvements have been made to the watch bands of the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra?
The watch bands of the Galaxy Watch7 Ultra now integrate more seamlessly into the body, with two button-like protrusions adjacent to the sensors for easier band removal compared to previous models.
Elon Musk threatens to ban Apple devices in Tesla offices over OpenAI integration.
Musk calls Apple’s partnership with OpenAI a security violation.
Musk criticizes Apple’s ability to protect user data with OpenAI.
Apple emphasizes privacy focus with new AI capabilities at WWDC.
Elon Musk has fired a warning shot at Apple, saying he will prohibit the tech giant’s devices at his companies if they integrate OpenAI’s artificial intelligence software at the operating system level.
The Tesla and SpaceX CEO called such a move “an unacceptable security violation.”
His stern remarks came after Apple announced a partnership with OpenAI at its annual developers conference on Monday.
The deal will see ChatGPT integrated with Siri and made available for free across iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia later this year.
No Control Over Data, Claims Musk
It’s patently absurd that Apple isn’t smart enough to make their own AI, yet is somehow capable of ensuring that OpenAI will protect your security & privacy!
Apple has no clue what’s actually going on once they hand your data over to OpenAI. They’re selling you down the river.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 10, 2024
While Apple stressed its AI dubbed “Apple Intelligence” is built with privacy in mind, Musk questioned the iPhone maker’s ability to ensure OpenAI protects user data.
“Apple has no clue what’s actually going on once they hand your data over to OpenAI. They’re selling you down the river,” he stated on X (formerly Twitter).
Musk also claimed that visitors to his companies would have to store Apple devices in “a Faraday cage” due to the purported security risks of OpenAI integration at the OS level.
Bitter Split with OpenAI
Musk calls Apple’s partnership with OpenAI a security violation
The billionaire co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but had a messy split from the AI startup.
He sued OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman earlier this year, alleging it abandoned its non-profit mission.
OpenAI, backed by Microsoft’s $13 billion investment, dismissed Musk as being jealous of its success.
In the AI arms race, Musk launched his own startup xAI last July to develop “Grok” – his own conversational AI aiming to “understand the universe.”
He has positioned Grok as an open source alternative aligned with his beliefs, doubling down on his offensive against OpenAI.
Apple Touts Privacy Focus
Apple emphasizes privacy focus with new AI capabilities at WWDC.
For its part, Apple maintained its new AI capabilities announced at WWDC put user privacy first. “All of this goes beyond artificial intelligence. It’s personal intelligence and it’s the next big step for Apple,” CEO Tim Cook stated regarding Apple Intelligence.
It seems that this stark warning from Musk will escalate tensions between major tech players racing to lead the generative AI revolution, with data privacy and security being a central battleground.
FAQs
Why is Elon Musk threatening to ban Apple devices in Tesla offices?
Elon Musk is threatening to ban Apple devices in Tesla offices because he believes integrating OpenAI’s software at the operating system level poses an unacceptable security risk.
What did Elon Musk say about Apple’s partnership with OpenAI?
Elon Musk criticized Apple’s partnership with OpenAI, claiming that Apple has no control over user data once it is handed over to OpenAI, and accused Apple of compromising user privacy.
How did Apple respond to concerns about data privacy with OpenAI integration?
Apple maintained that its new AI capabilities, branded as “Apple Intelligence,” are built with privacy in mind and emphasized that the company prioritizes user privacy in all its AI developments.
What is Elon Musk’s history with OpenAI?
Elon Musk co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but had a contentious split from the organization.
He has since sued OpenAI, alleging it abandoned its non-profit mission, and launched his own AI startup, xAI, as an alternative to OpenAI.
The upgrade brings several fresh capabilities focused on health tracking and workout management.
Customizable Activity Tracking
With the new Vitals app, Apple Watch users can quickly view key overnight health metrics, receive alerts when two or more metrics are out of their typical range, and gain better context when it comes to their health.
One of the key new features in watchOS 11 is the ability to adjust your Activity ring goals by day of the week.
This allows you to account for rest days while still maintaining your achievement streaks.
You can also set workouts to automatically alert a friend once completed safely, like a late night run.
Training Load Monitoring
In the Activity app, users can see how their training load for the most recent seven days compares to their 28-day training load, classified as well below, below, steady, above, or well above.
watchOS 11 introduces a “training load” metric that monitors your exercise intensity over time.
It uses an algorithm analysing heart rate, altitude, workout duration, age and weight to estimate your overall training effort level.
Revamped Health Tracking
When users log a pregnancy in the Health app on iPhone or iPad, the Cycle Tracking app on Apple Watch will show their gestational age and allow them to log symptoms for things frequently experienced during pregnancy.
The update includes a new Vitals app that provides an at-a-glance overview of your daily health data compared to historical norms.
If multiple metrics seem out of range, you’ll get a tailored message explaining how they could be impacting you.
For users tracking their cycles, watchOS 11 now shows estimated gestational age and pregnancy charts when applicable.
It also adjusts high heart rate notification thresholds accordingly.
Smarter Watch Faces and Live Activities
The Photos face can help users select their best photo options by analyzing thousands of photos using machine learning; then a custom algorithm finds the best composition.
ThePhotos watch facegets upgraded with improved cropping using machine learning and more customization options.
WatchOS 11 also marks the debut of Live Activities on Apple Watch, providing real-time updates from apps.
To boost convenience, relevant widgets like Translate and Weather will automatically surface in the Smart Stack based on triggers like location and weather conditions.
Updated App Experiences
Designed to help users quickly access important information from any watch face, the Smart Stack is even more intelligent with watchOS 11.
Along with the new Vitals app, watchOS 11 brings the Translate app to Apple Watch for the first time.
The update also enables more capable Live Activities experiences on your wrist.
Watch Model Compatibility
Check In is now available on Apple Watch, including during workouts.
As is typical, some older Apple Watch models won’t be compatible with watchOS 11 when it releases later this year.
The first developer beta of watchOS 11 is available today, with a public beta expected to follow in July ahead of the official release likely coming this fall.
FAQs
What new health tracking features are included in watchOS 11?
watchOS 11 introduces a new Vitals app that provides an overview of daily health data compared to historical norms.
It also includes features for tracking cycles, estimated gestational age, and pregnancy charts.
How does the customizable Activity tracking work in watchOS 11?
Users can adjust their Activity ring goals by day of the week to account for rest days while maintaining achievement streaks.
The update also allows workouts to automatically alert a friend once completed safely.
What is the “training load” metric in watchOS 11?
The “training load” metric monitors exercise intensity over time, using an algorithm that analyses heart rate, altitude, workout duration, age, and weight to estimate overall training effort level.
Which Apple Watch models are compatible with watchOS 11?
watchOS 11 will be compatible with Apple Watch Series 6 and newer models, including the latest Apple Watch Ultra. Older models will not support the update.
What improvements are made to watch faces and Live Activities in watchOS 11?
The Photos watch face now features improved cropping using machine learning and more customization options. watchOS 11 also introduces Live Activities on Apple Watch, providing real-time updates from apps.
iPadOS 18 introduces home screen and control center customization.
macOS Sequoia enhances iPhone integration with Continuity upgrades.
New Calculator app and Smart Script for improved handwriting in iPadOS 18.
Safari in macOS Sequoia uses machine learning for key information surfacing.
At its annual developers conference, the company showed off some big improvements coming to iPad and Mac software this year.
Both iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia are full of new features that will increase productivity and improve user experience across devices.
iPadOS 18: Customization and Multitasking Improvements
Personalize your Home Screen layout by placing apps and widgets right where you want them on each page to let your wallpaper shine through.
One of the most-awaited features for iPadOS 18 is home screen and control centrе customization.
Users can customize their interface to arrange widgets and controls on the home screen.
A new floating tab bar will go further to enhance multitasking and enable users to transition from a tab view to a sidebar easily inside the apps.
Upgraded Collaboration and Handwriting Tools
Handwriting with Smart Script
Screen sharing within iPadOS 18 has another feature added wherein one has the ability to draw remotely or control the other iPad from the session.
Other new skills include the ability to take over devices for tech support or other troubleshooting.
Handwriting, meanwhile, is greatly improved, with a Smart Script capability smoothing and straightening out written notes in real-time.
Updated for the large iPad display, the basic and scientific calculators also introduce new tools like history and unit conversion
One widely anticipated change is a new Calculator app for the iPad, including conversions, history tracking, and unique math note-taking capabilities.
Users can jot down calculations and have them done and graphed automatically, with their unique penmanship preferences.
Updated iPads Getting iPadOS 18
Apple Reveals iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia at WWDC 2024:
Unfortunately, some of the older iPads won’t make the cut for the compatibility with iPadOS 18.
Only 2019 and newer iPad Air, iPad mini, and the standard models of iPad along with iPads Pro of 2018 would be considered.
macOS Sequoia Tightens iPhone Integration
With iPhone Mirroring, you can view what’s on your iPhone and control it too, without having to reach for it
The main features of Apple’s new Mac software would be the major Continuity upgrades meant for seamless iPhone integration.
The feature that would make things just more spectacular would be the mirroring of the iPhone through which the iPhone display view and control would be done directly on the Mac.
Move files, photos, and videos between your iPhone and Mac as easily as you drag and drop between apps on Mac.
An app from any iPhone could be opened directly from the mirrored view.
Drag windows to the edge of your screen to effortlessly arrange them into side-by-side tiles on your desktop, or place them in corners to keep even more apps in view.
The other feature would involve the availability of iPhone notifications against the Mac desktop, the ability to drag and drop content from one device to another, and the routing of iPhone audio across the Mac speakers.
Ensuring privacy, the mirrored iPhone screen will remain locked.
Safari, Password Manager and More
Safari will automatically detect relevant information on a page and highlight it as you browse
Safari in Sequoia Surfacing key information from websites with the help of machine learning.
A video viewer upgrade that keeps controls and other interfaces in view when videos go full screen.
Apple adds a new Passwords app that can be dedicated to handling login credentials, available across all devices and platforms.
From passwords to verifications and security alerts, find them all securely stored in the Passwords app.
Other highlights include automatic window tiling to more easily shape screen layouts, presenter preview mode with background removal for video call.
iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia will be available for general consumers in September, following new hardware from Apple.
FAQs
What are the main new features of iPadOS 18?
iPadOS 18 offers home screen and control center customization, a floating tab bar for multitasking, and improved handwriting tools with Smart Script.
It also introduces a new Calculator app with advanced features.
How does macOS Sequoia enhance iPhone integration?
macOS Sequoia features major Continuity upgrades, allowing iPhone display mirroring, iPhone notifications on Mac, and drag-and-drop content sharing between devices.
Users can also route iPhone audio through Mac speakers while ensuring privacy.
Which iPads will be compatible with iPadOS 18?
iPadOS 18 will be compatible with 2019 and newer iPad Air, iPad mini, and standard iPad models, as well as iPad Pro models from 2018 and later.
Older iPads will not support the new OS.
What improvements are coming to Safari in macOS Sequoia?
Safari in macOS Sequoia will use machine learning to surface key information from websites.
Additionally, it will have a video viewer upgrade to keep controls in view during full-screen playback and a new Passwords app for managing login credentials across devices.
When will iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia be available to the public?
iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia will be available for general consumers in September, following the release of new Apple hardware.
But the company’s website gives one example glimpse of how it will look, with “RCS” displayed in the text field.
The move follows years of pressure from Google, Samsung and regulatory scrutiny, with the EU taking aim at Apple’s longstanding refusal to enable better cross-platform messaging.
Record & Transcribe Calls Too
Native call recording and transcription feature in iOS 18
In more iOS 18 news, Apple will introduce the ability to record and transcribe phone calls natively.
When on a call, there will be a new recording option that captures audio and automatically transcribes it to written text in the Notes app.
Apple’s AIwill even generate summaries of the transcripts.
The company says call participants will be alerted that recording is happening.
While convenient for journalists, students and more, the transcription feature will initially only work for English, Spanish, German, French, Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese and Portuguese audio.
Still, built-in call recording should prove very useful for many iPhone users.
Apple will also work very heavy handedly on the privacy of said call recording so that it is not misused and the user is aware that a call is being recorded.
FAQs
What is RCS messaging, and how does it differ from SMS?
RCS (Rich Communication Services) offers advanced features like read receipts, typing indicators, and higher quality media sharing.
Unlike SMS, RCS provides a more interactive and richer messaging experience similar to iMessage.
How will RCS messaging improve communication between iPhones and Android devices?
With RCS, messaging between iPhones and Android devices will no longer be limited to basic SMS.
Users will enjoy features like typing indicators, read receipts, and high-quality media sharing, enhancing the overall messaging experience.
What are the new call recording and transcription features in iOS 18?
iOS 18 will introduce a native call recording option that captures audio during phone calls and automatically transcribes it into written text in the Notes app.
The transcription feature supports multiple languages and alerts participants when recording is happening.
Will call participants be notified when a call is being recorded on iOS 18?
Yes, Apple has confirmed that all call participants will be alerted when a call is being recorded.
This ensures transparency and privacy for all parties involved in the conversation.
Which languages are supported by the new transcription feature in iOS 18?
The transcription feature in iOS 18 supports English, Spanish, German, French, Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Portuguese audio.
Apple aims to expand language support in future updates.
Described by Tim Cook as a type of “personal intelligence,” Apple Intelligence promises to make the company’s products more useful and delightful.
Among these things are several dozen large language and diffusion models, including ChatGPT.
This AI assistant will also use personal data, calendars, emails, and information that is stored in various Apple devices.
Just like Microsoft’s Copilot in Windows, Apple Intelligence can perform OS-level tasks and generate text or images inside any app on a user’s phone, tablet, or laptop.
But Apple guarantees that the data is secure on-device and hence, only relevant knowledge is sent to the cloud, and the servers are powered by Apple Silicon chips.
Well, here’s what all you can do from Apple Intelligence.
Siri Reimagined: A More Intuitive and Context-Aware Assistant
Now users can type to Siri, and switch between text and voice to communicate with Siri in whatever way feels right for the moment.
Finally Siri also becomes more human, understanding a lot more and responding to much more natural language.
If users stutter on their words or change their minds mid-sentence, the new Siri will pick up on their intentions.
Siri is also able to make calls to ChatGPT or other AI models that provide additional computing power and intelligence when needed.
One of the most significant changes in the new Siri is its redesigned human-computer interface.
Using what the company describes as a card system—this time around, one that draws information from a variety of content for handling a user command—Apple has also applied soft light, which beams across the length of the device’s frame.
With onscreen awareness, Siri makes it easy to perform an action related to information on the screen, such as adding an address received in Messages to a friend’s contact card.
And according to its maker, this new look improves user engagement and intuitiveness with the virtual assistant.
Apart from the redesigned look, the new Siri has more advanced features that include the listening and reply to context.
The user does not have to restate something in following lines, as Siri will smoothly keep in mind what the user is talking about.
It makes any interaction seem more efficient and natural.
Screen perception is another game-changing functionality of Siri, wherein it is able to understand the content a user is browsing and provide operation suggestions for emerging applications.
Siri can now take hundreds of new actions in and across apps, including finding book recommendations sent by a friend in Messages and Mail.
For example, on the aforementioned form where the user is required to enter a driver’s license number, Siri will be able to find the person’s e-driver’s license and pull out the number in question.
Complementing its contextual awareness, Siri now also comes with a richer product knowledge base, empowering it to help users resolve device-related issues more productively.
For any queried new flagship feature like this one,“How do I write a message now and set a delayed delivery?”
in which Siri is directly able to guide them through the new “Scheduled Delivery” functionality added to the iOS 18 Messages app, which now lets people schedule messages for future delivery.
This enhanced product knowledge extends beyond messaging, providing users with a comprehensive resource for navigating and leveraging the latest features and capabilities across Apple’s ecosystem.
Text Rewrite and Proofreading
With brand-new systemwide Writing Tools powered by Apple Intelligence, users can rewrite, proofread, and summarize text nearly everywhere they write.
Here are other things that you can do: Create or rewrite text to have it be more engaging or more easily readable.
Rewrite and Writing tools tone an email or speech.
Make a party invitation Funny.
Clean up notes from class.
It is available system-wide in Apple apps and third-party apps. Apart from that you also get:
Proofreader: check grammar, word choice, and sentence structure with suggestions for edits and explanations.
Summarize: condense selected text into a summary with bullet points, paragraphs, or a table.
Generative AI with Apple Intelligence
Easy to use and built right into apps like Messages, Image Playground allows users to create fun images in seconds.
Users can create personalised emojis, GIFs, and fun images within apps like Notes, Messages, Pages, and Keynote.
A dedicated ‘Image Playground’ app allows users to generate animations, illustrations, and sketches instantly.
Impressively, all images are created using locally running diffusion models, ensuring no data leaves the device.
In Messages, users can use Image Playground to quickly create fun images for their friends, and see personalized suggested concepts related to their conversations.
Users can choose from various concepts, themes, and styles, and even include photos from their libraries.
The Photos app receives a significant upgrade, with a new layout, custom category and gallery creation, and enhanced image editing capabilities powered by Apple Intelligence.
With Memories, Apple Intelligence can pick out the best photos and videos based on a user’s description, craft a storyline, and arrange it all into a movie with its own narrative arc.
The ‘Clean Up’ tool can remove distracting objects from photo backgrounds with a single tap.
App Modifications
By simply typing a description, a Genmoji appears, along with additional options.
Whether it’s an agent-like ability enabling it to originate actions within and across systems and apps, or its capability for fetching personal data, including email, calendar invitations, and documents, to retrieve and analyze — the assistant is able to proffer suggestions based on one’s schedule and situation.
Privacy is still a central theme for Apple Intelligence.
Apple has embedded ‘Private Cloud Compute,’
Though Apple Intelligence is mostly on-device, for the really heavy lifting that involves releasing more resources like those available in ChatGPT, Apple has embedded ‘Private Cloud Compute,‘ which will push device-level privacy and security to that model in the cloud.
Apple is now adding OpenAI’s GPT-4o to the Apple ecosystem, so that based on the app or tool one is already in, one can continue sending prompts, images, or documents to ChatGPT.
ChatGPT will be available in Apple’s systemwide Writing Tools in macOS, which help users generate content for anything they are writing about.
The app or tool does not need to be left, and soon it will be in Siri as well, so Siri can leverage the power of GPT-4o in cases where local models come up a bit short.
Which Devices will Get Apple Intelligence?
Available on iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia with Apple Silicon chips
Apple Intelligence will be available for free in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia this fall, initially in US English.
It will require an Apple Silicon chip, including M-series Macs, iPads, and the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models with the A17 chip or later.
So what about people on older iPhones?
Well they are bang out of luck.
Apple’s AI capabilities need a lot hardware acceleration which only theA17 Pro chipset can provide so bringing the update to older iPhones seems out of the realm of possibilities.
FAQs
What is Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s next-generation AI assistant, unveiled at WWDC 2024.
It integrates generative AI, allowing for advanced text and image creation, and enhances Siri with more intuitive and context-aware responses.
How does Apple Intelligence enhance Siri?
The new Siri can understand more natural language, handle context-aware interactions, and perform tasks using a redesigned human-computer interface.
Siri can now also call on external AI models like ChatGPT for additional computing power.
What are the new features of Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence includes a range of new features such as text rewriting, proofreading, summarizing capabilities, and generative image creation through diffusion models.
It also offers enhanced privacy features with data processing primarily on-device.
Which devices will support Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence will be available on devices with Apple Silicon chips, including M-series Macs, iPads, and iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models with the A17 chip or later.
It will be included in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia.
How does Apple ensure privacy with Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence processes most data on-device to ensure user privacy.
For tasks requiring more resources, ‘Private Cloud Compute’ is used, maintaining device-level privacy and security while leveraging the cloud for heavy computational tasks.
visionOS 2 introduces a new virtual ultrawide Mac display for immersive experiences.
Transform photos into 3D spatial wonders with the updated Photos app.
Expanded travel mode now supports train journeys for seamless immersive experiences.
SharePlay and Spatial Personas enhance collaborative photo viewing.
Apple has unveiled visionOS 2, the highly anticipated update to the operating system powering its cutting-edge Vision Pro headset.
Scheduled for release later this year, visionOS 2 promises to introduce a host of compelling features, including enhanced virtual display capabilities, transformative photo experiences, and expanded travel mode support.
Reimagining Virtual Displays: Ultrawide Immersion Comes to Mac
New Ulra-wide monitor on Vision Pro
One of the standout additions in visionOS 2 is the revamped Mac virtual display feature.
Apple claims to have elevated the experience to an unprecedented level, offering the equivalent of two 4K displays with a new virtual ultrawide display option.
This cutting-edge feature promises to envelop users in an immersive, curved ultrawide display that stretches out before them, mimicking the experience of a physical curved ultrawide monitor – a long-awaited feature for many Vision Pro enthusiasts.
Transforming Photos into Spatial Wonders
visionOS 2 introduces a new virtual ultrawide Mac display for immersive experiences
Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of immersive experiences extends to the Photos app as well.
With visionOS 2, users will gain the ability to convert any image within the app into a spatial one, opening up a world of possibilities for exploring and interacting with their cherished memories in three-dimensional space.
Expanding Travel Mode’s Horizons
Cinematic mode on visionOS 2
Recognizing the diverse needs of its users, Apple has also addressed the Vision Pro’s travel mode in visionOS 2.
Previously limited to airplanes, the updated travel mode will now encompass train support, enabling users to seamlessly transition their immersive experiences across various modes of transportation.
Collaborative Experiences and Spatial Content Creation
New Collobarative effort with visionOS 2
Furthering its vision of seamless collaboration, visionOS 2 introduces SharePlay to the Photos app, enabling Vision Pro owners to share and experience their photo libraries together in real-time using Spatial Personas.
Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of spatial content creation is also evident, with the company announcing its first scripted immersive feature and Red Bull’s forthcoming immersive sports series.
Additionally, Canon’s upcoming spatial lens for the EOS R7, specifically designed for creating Vision Pro content, promises to empower creators with cutting-edge tools for capturing and crafting immersive experiences.
Global Expansion: Bringing Vision Pro to New Markets
Vision Pro’s international release likely after WWDC in June.
As Apple continues to refine and enhance the Vision Pro experience, the company is also expanding its reach globally.
Starting June 13th at 6PM PT, Apple will begin accepting pre-orders for the Vision Pro in China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, with availability set for June 28th.
Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK will follow suit, with pre-orders opening on June 28th at 5AM PT and the headset becoming available on July 12th.
FAQs
What is the new virtual display feature in visionOS 2?
The new virtual display feature in visionOS 2 offers a virtual ultrawide display equivalent to two 4K monitors, providing users with an immersive and expansive viewing experience similar to a physical curved ultrawide monitor.
How does visionOS 2 enhance the Photos app?
visionOS 2 allows users to transform any photo into a spatial one, enabling them to explore and interact with their memories in three-dimensional space, enhancing the immersive experience.
What improvements have been made to the travel mode in visionOS 2?
The updated travel mode in visionOS 2 now supports both airplanes and trains, allowing users to maintain their immersive experiences seamlessly across different modes of transportation.
What is SharePlay in visionOS 2, and how does it work?
SharePlay in visionOS 2 enables real-time sharing and experiencing of photo libraries using Spatial Personas, which brings virtual representations of friends into the user’s physical space for a collaborative and immersive experience.
Headlining the release are groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI features, cementing Apple’s commitment to ushering in a new era of intelligent mobile experiences.
Stepping into the AI Frontier: Apple Intelligence Takes Center Stage
Introducing “Apple Intelligence” with advanced AI capabilities
Dubbed “Apple Intelligence,” iOS 18 promises a comprehensive suite of AI capabilities designed to streamline tasks, enhance creativity, and foster more natural interactions.
From crafting emails to expressing oneself through prompts, Apple is positioning this release as a pivotal moment, asserting that its AI features will redefine how users interact with their iPhones.
Customization and Privacy at the Forefront
Focus on Privacy
While AI stole the spotlight, Apple kicked off its presentation by showcasing more traditional enhancements.
iOS 18 introduces a highly customizable home screen, allowing for flexible icon placement and the ability to universally apply chosen color themes across apps.
Additionally, the update brings dark mode improvements, with app icons adopting a dimmer tone for reduced eye strain.
Privacy remains a cornerstone of Apple’s philosophy, and iOS 18 reflects this commitment.
Users will gain the ability to require authentication for specific apps or hide them entirely until the device recognizes its owner.
Furthermore, granular controls over third-party app access to contacts have been implemented.
Enhancing Messaging and Connectivity
New Messaging Experience
The Messages app is receiving a significant overhaul, enabling users to respond with any emoji, format text with bold, underline, strikethrough, and italics, and schedule messages for future delivery.
Notably, Apple has confirmed the long-awaited integration of RCS (Rich Communication Services),promising higher-quality image and video sharing with Android devices.
Expanding connectivity options, iOS 18 will introduce satellite messaging capabilities, allowing users to communicate even in areas with limited cellular coverage.
Revamped Photos and Gaming Experiences
Revamped Photos app with better sorting and automatic grouping
Apple is promising a comprehensive revamp of the Photos app, optimized to handle ever-growing libraries with improved face sorting, pinned collections, and automatic grouping of people and pets.
Catering to gaming enthusiasts, iOS 18 introduces Game Mode, which minimizes background activity to prioritize performance and reduce latency when using connected gamepads or AirPods.
Harnessing the Power of AI
Apple Intelligence is here
Apple’s AI ambitions extend beyond productivity and creativity.
The company promises that Apple Intelligence will understand users’ personal contexts to a greater degree than competing services.
Users can expect seamless image generation within messages, smarter notification prioritization, and more natural interactions with the enhanced Siri assistant.
Siri’s capabilities have been expanded, enabling it to take action within iPhone apps on behalf of users.
Apple demonstrated how Siri could retrieve a photo of a driver’s license, extract the number, and paste it into a form, showcasing the assistant’s newfound versatility.
As iOS 18 prepares for its public release this fall, Apple has firmly established its commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile AI while continuing to prioritize user customization, privacy, and enhanced core experiences.
FAQs
What are the key AI features in iOS 18?
iOS 18 introduces “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of AI capabilities designed to streamline tasks, enhance creativity, and offer more natural interactions. This includes smart notification prioritization, seamless image generation, and advanced Siri functionalities.
How has the Messages app been improved in iOS 18?
The Messages app now allows users to respond with any emoji, format text with bold, underline, strikethrough, and italics, and schedule messages for future delivery. Additionally, iOS 18 integrates Rich Communication Services (RCS) for higher-quality image and video sharing with Android devices.
What customization options does iOS 18 offer?
iOS 18 provides a highly customizable home screen with flexible icon placement and the ability to universally apply chosen color themes across apps. The update also includes improved dark mode with dimmer app icons for reduced eye strain.
How does iOS 18 enhance user privacy?
iOS 18 introduces the ability to require authentication for specific apps, hide apps until the device recognizes its owner, and offers granular controls over third-party app access to contacts, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to user privacy.
What improvements have been made to the Photos app in iOS 18?
The Photos app in iOS 18 has been optimized to handle growing libraries with improved face sorting, pinned collections, and automatic grouping of people and pets.
These enhancements aim to better compete with Google Photos.
But this new ULT series aims at something a little different, creating headphones not for everybody but for those who enjoy the feel of bass in their music.
Launched in India, the ULT series comprises of headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and a big speaker meant to power parties and annoy the neighbours.
The ULT Wear headphones, equipped with XB (Extra Bass) technology, come with a Bass Boost button and seem to be designed to take over from the 1000x series possibly a little more aggressively.
Now, intrigued by these claims, I decided to spend some time with the ULT Wear, and what I found was quite surprising.
The packaging felt premium and well-designed, immediately giving a sense of quality.
Inside, the headphones were neatly folded in their travel case, accompanied by a USB Type-C charging cable, a 3.5mm audio cable, and a user manual.
The minimalist and organized presentation made it easy to access each component, setting a positive tone for my first encounter with the ULT Wear.
Sony ULT Wear: Design and Build
Sony ULT Wear: Design and Build
The headphones feature a minimal and functional design, giving them a subtle look.
The Sony branding and the ULT button give a rainbow-esque look upon light reflection.
They come in three colours: black, white, and gray.
The weight of 225g is light, but the headphones don’t feel light and breakable while carrying.
They might appear slightly plasticky at first, but a closer look reveals that they are kin to their more premium sibling, the WH-1000XM5, especially in their ear cups.
The ULT Wear folds all the way into a travel case, much like the old 1000X and XB910N models.
It fits into a rucksack easily.
The big ear pads fit around the ear nicely, offering you a very tight grip.
I have worn them on a flight from Delhi, and even though I felt a bit of the weight, they never became uncomfortable.
The headband is slimmer and more in tune with how Sony incorporates design into their flagship series.
A large ‘ULT’ button located inside, its functionality, however, will be discussed later in the review.
The right earcup is touch-sensitive but remains quite minimalistic.
Broadly speaking, the Sony ULT Wear headphones are well built, have a nice form factor, just enough heft, and are very comfortable.
Sony ULT Wear: Features and Companion App
Sony ULT Wear: Features and Companion App
The Sony ULT Wear headphones feature Bluetooth 5.2and Sony’s LDAC codec for high-quality streaming up to 990kbps, delivering 32-bit/96kHz to the wearer’s ears.
They also come with a Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) to upscale compressed audio in an attempt to restore it to the quality in which it was originally recorded.
Upon pressing the power button, my Pixel 8 Pro immediately locked onto them through Google’s Fast Pair.
I was just a tap away, and the LDAC link was all set to carry out Hi-Res audio.
Playback and an EQ, plus a graphic of the bass, are right there on Sony’s app.
The headphones are equipped with 40mm dome-type drivers and feature touch controls on the earcups for play/pause, track navigation, and volume control.
The product also has buttons for ANC/Ambient sound and the ULT button controls the bass up to three levels: Off, ULT 1, and ULT 2.
The right earcup which, at first glance, looks very minimalistic, also supports several gestures/touch controls, which worked perfectly fine with the play/pause feature.
But what I really love is the ability to cup the right earcup with my palm to enable transparency mode momentarily.
This comes in handy in instances where you might want to listen to a person speak without really pausing the music.
Sony ULT Wear: Sound Quality
Sony ULT Wear: Sound Quality
Sound quality is a mixed bag on the Sony ULT Wear headphones due to the ULT feature.
Experimentation resulted in finding the best sound profile by using the Bright EQ preset on the Headphones app with the ULT set at 1 (moderate).
These settings made listening to the ULT Wear a pleasant affair regardless of whether one is using compressed music from Spotify or lossless tunes from Tidal.
The headphones have good performance for genres like rock and electro-pop, and its prowess was showcased in handling almost all genres of music.
Listening to the song “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen, the mids and highs were clear, and again, the soundstage was nice and wide, enabling the listener to feel each intricate layer of the song.
Bass-heavy music’s excellent quality is represented in the Billie Eilish track “Bad Guy.”
ANC, Call Quality and Battery Life
ANC, Call Quality and Battery Life
The ANC performed well in ensuring an immersive listening experience by putting a stop on ambient noise, making it perfect for long listening sessions.
This new offering from Sony provides a robust sound experience with clear mids, crisp highs, and a bass resonating with deepness, particularly for bass enthusiasts.
Call quality, for the most part, is solid on the ULT Wear.
The voices were loud and clear when taking calls, and mostly without outside interference, although some ambient sounds and voices did sometimes bleed in.
Its battery life is also quite good, allowing for about 30 hours with noise cancelling on and 50 with it off.
It has a special quick charge support: 5 hours of operation in just 10 minutes or 90 minutes in just 3 minutes.
The feature facilitates the device for long listening sessions and on-the-go use without the worry of frequent recharges.
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
The Rs 24,990 Sony ULT Wear headphones, available for Rs 16,989 on Amazon, deliver a robust blend of advanced features and performance for bass heads.
They are sleek and functional in terms of design, built strong, and offer a comfortable fit.
Running Bluetooth 5.2, LDAC codec, and 40mm drivers, they bring quality sounding music with clear mids, crispy highs, and deep bass.
The DSEE enhances compressed audio, and an ULT button gives users control over just how much bass they want.
A few little issues are noticed with the bass boost and sometimes call quality interference, but overall, they perform well.
5 Reasons to Buy
5 Reasons to Buy
Excellent Sound Quality: Clear mids, crisp highs, and deep bass provide a well-rounded audio experience.
Impressive Battery Life: Up to 50 hours of playback without noise cancellation, ensuring long listening sessions.
Effective Noise Cancellation: The ANC effectively blocks out ambient noise, making it ideal for immersive listening.
High-Quality Streaming: Supports Bluetooth 5.2 and LDAC codec for high-resolution audio streaming.
Comfortable Fit: Lightweight design with large ear pads and a slim headband for extended wear comfort.
3 Reasons Not to Buy
Overwhelming Bass: The bass boost can sometimes become muddy, detracting from the overall sound quality.
Occasional Call Quality Issues: Some ambient sounds and voices can bleed through during calls.
Plastic Appearance: The initial plasticky look may seem less premium compared to other high-end models.
FAQs
What are the main features of the Sony ULT Wear headphones?
The Sony ULT Wear headphones feature 50dB active noise cancellation, 10mm BoomX technology drivers, 60 hours of total playtime, Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, an IPX5 water-resistant rating, and dual device pairing with the Boult Amp app.
How does the ULT Wear handle bass-heavy music?
The ULT Wear headphones come equipped with a Bass Boost button, offering three levels of bass intensity. While the bass is punchy and full of life, it can sometimes become overwhelming, especially at higher boost levels.
Are the Sony ULT Wear headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, the ULT Wear headphones are designed for comfort with large ear pads, a slim headband, and a lightweight build, making them suitable for extended wear.
How effective is the noise cancellation on the Sony ULT Wear headphones?
The active noise cancellation (ANC) on the ULT Wear headphones is effective at blocking out ambient noise, ensuring an immersive listening experience even in noisy environments.
What is the battery life of the Sony ULT Wear headphones?
The Sony ULT Wear headphones offer up to 50 hours of playback with noise cancellation off and 30 hours with it on. They also support quick charging, providing 5 hours of operation with just a 10-minute charge.
