Category Archives: Smartphones

Smartphones

The Unpleasant Truth About iPhone Repairs

In a recent blog post, iFixit has revealed an important aspect of iPhone repairability that was previously overlooked. The repairability score, traditionally based on physical design, did not account for Apple’s software-based parts pairing.

In essence, when a part is replaced on an iPhone 14, it connects to Apple’s servers to verify whether the repair has been authorized. This verification is only granted if the replacement part was acquired directly from Apple. Even if the part is an authentic Apple component from a recycled phone, it will not be validated.

What happens when a part is not validated? The consequences vary depending on the specific component. As reported by iFixit in October 2022, a non-validated replacement screen would still function but with certain features disabled, such as True Tone and Auto-Brightness. Additionally, a warning message would notify the user about the possibility of the screen not being genuine. When it comes to the battery, a warning message would appear and access to battery health and statistics menus would be disabled. The front-facing camera, on the other hand, would cease to function entirely, while the rear cameras would continue operating normally but display a warning message about using non-genuine parts during phone startup. The logic board, due to its serial number not matching the other components, would trigger various “genuine parts” warnings.

Smartphones

Upgrade to iPhone 15 Pro 5G for Faster Speeds

The iPhone 15 Pro duo offers a significant increase in 5G download speeds, thanks to the inclusion of the Qualcomm Snapdragon X70 modem. In comparison, the previous iPhone 14 series had the Snapdragon X65 modem. This upgraded cellular modem not only improves speed but also enhances power efficiency, reduces latency, improves aggregation, and extends coverage.

Interestingly, this modem is also found in Android phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, such as the OnePlus 11 and Galaxy S23 Ultra. Furthermore, Qualcomm has already developed an upgraded version called the Snapdragon X75 to cater to the next generation of flagship phones.

Apple recently extended its partnership with Qualcomm for another three years, covering Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF Systems. This deal came after rumors of Apple developing its own cellular modem to reduce reliance on Qualcomm.

In addition to the faster modem, the iPhone 15 Pro offers other network and connectivity advantages. The Pro variants support Thread networking tech, which is a core protocol in the Matter ecosystem, making it easier to connect and control your smart home devices.

Furthermore, the iPhone 15 Pro and its Max version are the first Apple smartphones to include support for NavIC. NavIC is an alternative to GPS developed by the Indian Space Research Organization.

Smartphones

Why Did France Ban the iPhone 12 Due to Radiation Concerns?

France recently banned the iPhone 12 from being sold in the country due to concerns about its radiation levels. Apple, known for its commitment to health and the environment, responded by instructing its employees not to address customer questions about the health risks of the iPhone 12 and to emphasize its safety.

An Apple spokesperson stated that the ban was related to the testing protocol used by French regulators and not due to any safety concerns. The company assured that all its phones, including the iPhone 12, meet the SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) regulations and standards worldwide.

In response to the request made by the French minister, Apple agreed to release a software update to make the iPhone 12 compliant with the SAR testing protocols in France. The conflict arose because France modified its SAR testing protocols in 2020, the same year the iPhone 12 was launched.

To provide some context, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States has set a maximum SAR limit of 1.6 W/kg for smartphones, while the European Union (EU) allows up to 2 W/kg. To meet the French regulations, Apple simply needed to update its software to accommodate the changes in the testing protocols and ensure the phone’s radiation safety.

News, Smartphones

Understanding Grade 5 Titanium: Why Apple Opted for It in the iPhone 15 Pro

Grade 5 titanium, also known as the ‘workhorse’ grade of titanium, is highly regarded for its exceptional tensile strength. It is the most widely used type of titanium and accounts for about half of the global titanium production. This versatile material finds applications in various industries, including medicine, maritime, aerospace, and chemical processing. Moreover, it has been utilized in sporting equipment and aircraft turbines among other things.

At an event, Yang revealed that Grade 5 titanium is “an alloy with even higher tensile strength than pure titanium. It is typically used in applications where strength, formability, and weight balance are crucial. Interestingly, this is the same alloy deployed in the Mars Rover.” Its usage in collecting samples on Mars speaks volumes about the material. Furthermore, Yang discussed how this alloy possesses one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among all metals.

This is likely the primary reason behind Apple’s choice. Grade 5 titanium offers strength and lightweight properties, enabling the tech giant to design the iPhone 15 Pro with a slimmer, lighter, and more durable framework. Thanks to this alloy, the new smartphone features a compact profile without compromising structural integrity. Additionally, it reduces the overall weight of the device while maintaining the same screen size.

Smartphones

Is There A Better Time Of Year To Buy An iPhone? Here’s What You Should Know

Apple’s pricing controls make it unlikely to find significant sales on the newest iPhones immediately after their release, usually in September for the flagship and March for the iPhone SE. While there may be carrier promotions offering increased trade-in value or conditional bill credits, these won’t benefit those looking to buy the phone outright at a discount. So, when can you find significant iPhone discounts?

If you’re interested in the previous model year’s phone, its price usually drops after the announcement of the newest model. This also increases the chances of finding additional discounts during major holiday sale events like Thanksgiving/Black Friday/Cyber Monday, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Amazon’s Prime Day.

Therefore, the best time to buy the current iPhone is typically during the winter through spring months, with Memorial Day being the most favorable holiday relative to Apple’s release cycle. While you may come across other sales for Prime Day and Labor Day, it is generally advisable to wait until the new model is released unless the discount is exceptionally high compared to Apple’s usual price drops year over year.

Smartphones

What to Do When Your iPhone Gets Stuck in Recovery Mode

If your iPhone has been stuck in Recovery Mode with no progress on the Restore screen, follow these steps:

  1. Disconnect your iPhone from the computer connected to Recovery Mode to prevent it from going back into Recovery Mode after restarting.
  2. On iPhone 8 or newer, press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button. Next, press and hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears.
  3. On iPhone 7 or 7 Plus, press and hold both the Volume Down and Power buttons until the Apple logo is displayed.
  4. On iPhone 6S and older, press and hold the Home and Power buttons simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.

If you’re lucky, a forced restart will solve the issue and your iPhone will return to normal. However, if your device restarts and returns to the Restore screen, you’ll need to reinstall iOS to resolve the problem.

News, Smartphones

5 Expectations for Apple’s iPhone 15 Event: Watch Series 9, New AirPods, and More

For several years now, Apple has released four different versions of the iPhone to cater to different audiences. In 2022, they offered the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max. According to recent reports, the upcoming iPhones are likely to be named the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. There were rumors of the “Pro Max” variant being renamed as the iPhone 15 Ultra, but those reports have been dismissed.

Apple appears to be sticking with the familiar design language for the iPhone 15 lineup, making them look similar to previous generations. However, there will be some minor changes, such as thinner bezels across all models and slightly larger displays on the Pro and Pro Max models. There is also speculation about Apple using a more durable Titanium body for these devices, which could potentially reduce fingerprint smudges that have been an issue since the iPhone X launch in 2017.

In terms of camera improvements, the 2023 update might bring good news for photography enthusiasts disappointed with the lower-end iPhone models. It is likely that Apple will upgrade the 12MP primary sensor on these phones to a larger 48MP sensor.

News, Smartphones

Your iPhone Is Vulnerable to a New iMessage Hack – Steps to Protect Your Device

A new exploit, known as BLASTPASS, has been discovered by Citizen Lab, involving the use of iMessage accounts to send malicious image files. In response, Apple has released an iPhone update, iOS 16.6.1, to address this vulnerability. To safeguard your device, follow these steps: Go to Settings → General → Software Update and run the software update as soon as possible.

For added protection, Apple has also released updates for iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. It is recommended to install these updates urgently.

Apple has acknowledged the severity of the exploit, stating that the processing of a manipulated image could result in arbitrary code execution. They are aware of reports of active exploitation. In response, Apple has addressed the buffer overflow issue in ImageIO with improved memory handling. Additionally, a similar issue in Wallet has been resolved with enhanced logic.

While the majority of users are unlikely to be targeted by NSO Group clients, it is advisable to take precautions. Citizen Lab suggests activating the iPhone’s “Lockdown Mode,” which offers resistance against Pegasus-style mercenary malware attacks. To enable this feature, follow these steps: Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Security → Lockdown Mode → Turn On Lockdown Mode → Turn On Lockdown Mode (again) → Turn On & Restart. After entering your device passcode, the mode will be activated.

Smartphones

How to Download Offline Maps for Android Auto

Offline maps are convenient and worth downloading, but they come with limitations compared to online maps. With offline maps, you can view the map, zoom in and out, set routes, receive navigation instructions, and see your position on the map using GPS. This covers the essentials of getting from point A to point B.

In addition, you can access limited location information from Google Business profiles, such as regular opening times, addresses, and telephone numbers. However, you won’t have access to updated information like how busy a place is, special opening times, reviews, and photos. When viewing a profile, a message stating “Offline – Limited info” will remind you of this.

There are several things you won’t be able to do with offline maps. These include receiving real-time traffic updates, road accident information, alternate routes, and lane guidance. When you set up a route, you will see the message “Offline – No traffic data” to remind you of this limitation. Additionally, offline maps only provide car routes; other options like public transport, walking, cycling, and flying require an internet connection. Lastly, in offline mode, you can only control the map through the touch screen as voice commands are not available.