|
In this issue, you'll find:
- Android switchers boost iPhone Sales
- What's new in iOS 18 beta 4
- Apple's iPhone Fold could now launch in 2026
- Apple Maps on the web launches in beta
- OpenAI Debuts SearchGPT AI Search Engine
- Wallpapers of the week
- & more...
|
|
|
🔥 Android switchers boost iPhone Sales
Over the years, Apple has benefited greatly from Android users switching to iPhones. The models that the switchers are picking now is a short-term strategic challenge for Apple, but a long-term gain.
The recent data from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) indicates a rise in the number of Android users switching to iPhone. However, these switchers opt for the older, more affordable models.
In the June 2024 quarter, 17% of iPhone buyers were former Android users, the highest percentage in the last five years.
Despite the influx of switchers, Apple has experienced a decline in sales of its latest models, with older iPhones stepping up to fill the gap.
The underperformance of the iPhone 15 is offset by the robust performance of older models like the iPhone 14, iPhone 13, and iPhone SE.
Why older models are more appealing to switchers?
Price sensitivity likely plays a significant role. These older models are more affordable and appealing to Android users who are used to various budget-friendly options.
The value perception of the older models also plays a significant role. Despite being from previous years, these iPhones offer features that attract new iPhone users.
The technological advancements in these models still represent improvements over Android devices.
The Android switcher may start with a cheaper iPhone to test the waters before committing to a higher-priced, more advanced model.
That slower approach allows them to familiarize themselves with iOS without making a substantial financial commitment.
So, short-term challenges to Apple's margins. But, potentially, a longer-term gain as the users upgrade down the road.
|
|
|
🚨What's new in iOS 18 beta 4
Apple recently released iOS 18 beta 4 to developer testers. Even though Apple Intelligence is still missing, there are a few notable changes in today’s beta. Head below for a roundup of everything we’ve found in iOS 18 beta 4 so far.
iOS 18 beta 4 includes eight new light mode and dark mode wallpapers for CarPlay. These new wallpapers are inspired by the new iOS 18 wallpapers for iPhone users. (Note: Download links of these wallpapers is available at the end of this newsletter.
There's a new option in the Settings app for the Camera app: "Controls Menu." Apple explains: "Preserve the previously used camera tool when expanding the controls menu, rather than showing the list of camera tools."
The new flashlight UI, previously exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro, is now available on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus.
In conjunction with macOS Sequoia beta 4, iOS 18 adds new window sizing options for iPhone Mirroring.
Take a look at full coverage of iOS 18 by Brandon Butch
|
|
|
🤨 Apple's iPhone Fold could now launch in 2026
A new industry report claims that Apple's iPhone Fold is now set to arrive sooner than expected, with the iPhone 18 range.
According to Digitimes, based on various Korean media outlets, the report claims that Apple formally began research in 2004, which is when it also signed a contract with Samsung.
Presuming Apple has a typical two-year product development cycle, the report predicts that the iPhone fold will launch in 2026.
Outside of the estimated timescale, the report also says that Apple's first folding iPhone will be a top-down one. That is, when held in portrait, the top half will fold down over the bottom half.
So, rather than being like a book that opens out into a wider screen, it will be a regular-size iPhone that folds in half. The report, as spotted by 9to5mac, also specifies that the dimensions will be approximately the same as for current iPhones.
There's no indication of whether the exterior of the iPhone fold will also have a screen.
A foldable iPhone is clearly in development at the company, but do you think it will be released in 2026?
|
|
|
| Are you running the iOS 18 beta? |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
📍Apple Maps on the web launches in beta
Apple has launched a public beta version of Apple Maps on the web after launching the mobile app back almost 12 years ago on September 19, 2012.
Apple Maps on the web is available in public beta, allowing users around the world to access Maps directly from their browser," Apple wrote.
Maps on the web is currently available in English, and is compatible with Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad, as well as Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs.
You can now get driving and walking directions, discover amazing spots, and access essential details like photos, hours, ratings, and reviews—all from the Maps place card.
Plus, you can even order food directly through it! Explore curated Guides to find the best places to eat, shop, and explore in cities worldwide. And stay tuned—additional features, including Look Around, will be launching in the coming months.
You can access the beta of Apple Maps in some regions at beta.maps.apple.com
|
|
|
🤖 OpenAI Debuts SearchGPT AI Search Engine
OpenAI just introduced SearchGPT, a prototype of AI search features that are designed to provide "fast and timely answers" combined with "clear and relevant sources."
SearchGPT is available to a small group of users and publishers at the current time, with OpenAI seeking feedback on the product. The prototype is temporary at the current time, but "best" of the features will be integrated into ChatGPT in the future.
SearchGPT is able to respond to questions with up-to-date information from the web. SearchGPT is able to answer follow-up questions in a conversational manner, with shared context included with each additional query.
Publishers are able to manage how they appear in SearchGPT, but OpenAI says that SearchGPT is "about search" and separate from training generative AI models. Sites can be surfaced in search results even if they've opted out of generative AI training.
Those interested in testing out SearchGPT can join OpenAI's waitlist.
|
|
|
💬 WhatsApp wants to bring its AirDrop-like feature to iPhone users
As noted by WABetaInfo, the latest beta version of WhatsApp for iOS available on TestFlight includes "Nearby Share."
With this feature, users can share photos, videos and documents with people nearby wirelessly using an end-to-end encrypted connection.
While the Android version of WhatsApp is able to detect nearby devices, the iOS version will require the user to scan a QR Code to start file sharing.
A nice detail about Nearby Share is that it is expected to work between iOS and Android, which will make it easier for users to transfer files even when they have different phones.
|
|
|
🧐 Apple to Bring Latest Chips to Entry-Level iPhones and iPads
We’ve been hearing rumors about a new generation of the iPhone SE expected things like a more modern design reminiscent of the iPhone 14, Face ID, and USB-C.
According to the rumors, the new iPhone SE will be powered by the A18 chip, with perhaps 6GB or 8GB of RAM. This will be the same chip that will power the entire iPhone 16 lineup, including the non-Pro models.
This year, Apple Intelligence happened, and only iPhones with the A17 Pro chip (which means iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max) will get the new AI features with iOS 18.
That's probably why all the new iPhone 16 models will get the A18 chip.
Historically, the iPhone SE has always received the chip from the latest iPhones, so this news doesn’t exactly come as a surprise.
But given that it’s been a while since Apple updated the SE, the company could choose an older chip (like the A16 Bionic) rather than the A18. Apple wants to use AI features as a selling point.
For instance, rumors about a new HomePod with a touchscreen also hint at it being powered by the A18 chip. This also leads us to believe that the company will eventually update the entry-level iPad and iPad mini with its latest chip.
Although Apple Intelligence isn't coming to older devices, we’ll probably see all the new iPhones and iPads with AI features.
🙋🏻♂️Would you buy a new device just to try Apple Intelligence? Hit the reply button and let me know your thoughts.
|
|
|
Wallpapers of the Week
Download a fresh collection of CarPlay wallpapers released with iOS 18 beta 4.
|
|
|
🎁 Refer Your Friends
 |
Share with friends, get 500+ iPhone wallpapers! |
Have friends who'd love our newsletter too? Share them your unique referral link (below) and get an exclusive collection of 500+ iPhone wallpapers when they subscribe. |
[RH_REFLINK_3 GOES HERE] |
|
PS: You have referred [RH_TOTREF_3 GOES HERE] people so far |
| See how many referrals you have |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thank you again for joining iGeeksBlog+. I look forward to embarking on this exciting journey with you!
Best regards,
Dhvanesh
Founder, iGeeksBlog
|
iGeeks Media Private LTD. A-1202, Ratnaakar Nine Square, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380015
Unsubscribe · Preferences
|
|
|