Apple could potentially offer its upcoming second-generation Apple Watch Ultra in a new darker color option that it originally tested for last year's model but ultimately canceled, according to well-connected Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman.
Apple does not offer case color options for the current Apple Watch Ultra, but the company reportedly considered offering the premium device in a "dark titanium" version. Gurman claims Apple went so far as to test the color, but in the final analysis decided against the option because the designers didn't like it.
However, Gurman claims the dark color option could still "theoretically" be on the table for this year's model, presumably thanks to the popularity of the current device. Apple already offers its Apple Watch Series 8 and SE models in several case color options.
According to rumors, the second-generation version of the Apple Watch Ultra could also potentially be lighter than the first-generation model. Weibo user Setsuna Digital claims that the new Apple Watch Ultra will have a reduced weight, which could be due to the 3D printed components Apple is rumored to be using.
Apple is working on a new S9 chip based on the same technology found in the A15 chip used in the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and other devices. The chip will reportedly be used in the standard upcoming Apple Watch Series 9 and the next Apple Watch Ultra.
Apple is expected to announce its new Apple Watch models in September alongside its rumored iPhone 15 lineup.
Apple is shrinking the bezels on its upcoming iPhone 15 Pro models using a special manufacturing process, and the company also plans to use the same technology to reduce screen borders on future iPads, according to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman.
Writing in his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman says Apple is using low-injection pressure over-molding, or LIPO, to shrink the display border size on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max to 1.5 millimeters (versus around 2.2 millimeters on current iPhones).
Provided that Apple can overcome reported manufacturing issues, this could mean the iPhone 15 Pro models will have the thinnest bezels of any smartphone currently on the market, and Apple is apparently keen to replicate an equivalent achievement with its iPads, too.
As noted by Gurman, Apple first used LIPO on the Apple Watch Series 7 to make the device's borders thinner and increase the size of the display. If Gurman's source is accurate, LIPO is set to follow the same product trajectory as OLED display technology, which went from Apple Watch to iPhone, with OLED iPads expected to launch next year. However, which iPad model will be first to benefit from the LIPO process, and when it will arrive, remains unclear.
According to iPhone rumors, the bezels on all four iPhone 15 models are expected to be slightly curved around the edges, similar to the iPhone 11 series. Most rumors have claimed only the Pro models will have a bezel reduction this year, but a previously-accurate leaker has shared an image showing that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus might have slightly thinner bezels as well.
Apple is expected to announce its next iPhone lineup in September as usual. For all the latest rumors, be sure to read our dedicated iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro roundups.
Apple has acknowledged a bug with its parental controls feature Screen Time on the iPhone and iPad, and promises it will take additional steps to remedy the situation, according to a report this weekend from The Wall Street Journal.
Screen Time provides parents with settings to remotely manage a child's device, allowing them to restrict device usage to certain times, set time limits for apps, and block inappropriate content. However, some parents have complained that Screen Time settings sometimes reset or fail to sync across all devices within a Family Sharing group.
"We are aware that some users may be experiencing an issue where Screen Time settings are unexpectedly reset," an Apple spokesperson said, in a statement shared with The Wall Street Journal. "We take these reports very seriously and we have been, and will continue, making updates to improve the situation."
Apple already fixed an issue with Screen Time settings failing to stick with iOS 16.5, released in May, but the report claims that some parents have continued to experience the issue on devices updated to iOS 16.6 and the iOS 17 public beta. It's unclear when Apple plans to roll out additional improvements to Screen Time.
Screen Time launched in 2018 as part of iOS 12, providing parents with a built-in option for the type of controls that previously required third-party apps.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 15 lineup in September. As usual, many new features have been rumored for the Pro and Pro Max models, including a USB-C port, A17 Bionic chip, titanium frame, Action button, and more.
Below, we have recapped 12 new features and changes rumored for the iPhone 15 Pro models.
A17 Bionic chip: iPhone 15 Pro models are expected to be equipped with Apple's next-generation A17 Bionic chip, manufactured based on TSMC's 3nm process for continued performance and efficiency improvements. The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are expected to have an A16 Bionic chip.
Titanium frame: Like the Apple Watch Ultra, the iPhone 15 Pro models are expected to have a titanium frame instead of stainless steel.
USB-C port: iPhone 15 Pro models will feature a USB-C port with support for at least USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt 3, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, which would result in the devices having significantly faster data transfer speeds with a cable compared to existing iPhones with Lightning. Kuo said the USB-C port on standard iPhone 15 models will remain limited to USB 2.0 speeds like Lightning.
Wi-Fi 6E: Like the latest Macs and iPad Pro, the iPhone 15 Pro will support Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless speeds, according to a leaked schematic.
Increased RAM: iPhone 15 Pro models will be equipped with an increased 8GB of RAM, according to Taiwanese research firm TrendForce, while the standard models will likely continue to have 6GB of RAM as they do currently. Additional RAM can allow apps like Safari to keep more content active in the background, preventing the app from reloading content when reopened.
Action button: iPhone 15 Pro models are rumored to be equipped with a customizable Action button like the Apple Watch Ultra. The button would replace the Ring/Silent switch that has been included on every iPhone model since 2007. Users would likely be able to assign the button to various system functions, such as Ring/Silent, Do Not Disturb, Flashlight, Low Power Mode, and more.
Increased optical zoom for iPhone 15 Pro Max: The iPhone 15 Pro Max will feature a periscope telephoto lens, according to Kuo. This could result in the device having up to 5x-6x optical zoom, compared to 3x on iPhone 14 Pro models.
Ultra Wideband improvements: iPhone 15 models will likely have an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip (currently called the U1 chip) for improved integration with Apple's upcoming Vision Pro headset, according to Kuo. The new chip could also offer improved performance or reduced power consumption for location-based functions such as AirDrop and Precision Finding in the Find My app.
LiDAR Scanner improvements: iPhone 15 Pro models will have a more power-efficient LiDAR Scanner supplied by Sony, which could improve 3D depth scanning performance for AR apps and Night mode photos, according to Kuo.
More repairable design: Following in the footsteps of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, the iPhone 15 Pro is expected to have a more repairable design.
eSIM-only in more countries: iPhone 15 Pro models could be compatible with eSIMs only in France and potentially other countries. Apple first removed the physical SIM card tray from iPhone 14 models in the U.S. last year.
With over a month to go until the iPhone 15 lineup is unveiled, additional features could be rumored, so keep tabs on our iPhone 15 Pro roundup.
Apple has no plans to release a third-generation Apple Watch SE this year, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his Power On newsletter today, Gurman said the Apple Watch SE will remain on a two-year upgrade cycle, so the third-generation model can be expected to be released in September 2024.
This means that the second-generation Apple Watch SE should remain a safe buy for customers considering purchasing one, as the device is not expected to be upgraded for over a year still and has plenty of time remaining in its lifecycle.
Previous generations of the Apple Watch SE launched in September 2020 and September 2022, as outlined in the MacRumors Buyer's Guide.
Priced starting at $249, the Apple Watch SE is the most affordable Apple Watch, but it lacks some features available on higher-end Apple Watch models, including the ECG app, Blood Oxygen app, an always-on display, and wrist temperature tracking. It also has thicker bezels and smaller case size options compared to the Apple Watch Series 7 and newer.
New models launching this year will include the Apple Watch Series 9 in two sizes, and a second-generation Apple Watch Ultra, according to Gurman.
Gurman also revealed that Apple tested a dark titanium color option for the Apple Watch Ultra last year, but decided against releasing it.
Following in the footsteps of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will have a redesigned chassis that makes the devices "easier to repair," according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
This change could result in the iPhone 15 Pro models having removable back glass. With the chassis redesign, the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus became the first iPhone models that can be opened from both the front and back sides of the device since the iPhone 4S in 2011. The internal redesign did not extend to the iPhone 14 Pro models, which can still only be opened from the display side, at least for authorized repairs.
Removable back glass would likely lead to significantly lower repair fees for iPhone 15 Pro models with cracked back glass for customers without AppleCare+ coverage. Apple's out-of-warranty fees for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus with back glass damage range from $169 to $199, compared to $499 to $549 for iPhone 14 Pro models.
iFixit's Kyle Wiens last year said the iPhone 14 represented "the most substantial iPhone redesign" since the iPhone X given the increased repairability. He added that the changes were "such a big deal that it should have been Apple's big announcement—the iPhone has been redesigned from the inside out to make it easier to repair."
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 15 lineup in September. Gurman reiterated that all of the devices will be equipped with a USB-C port and the Dynamic Island, while he expects the Pro models to feature a titanium frame, thinner bezels around the display, a faster chip manufactured with TSMC's 3nm process, a customizable Action button, and more. He believes price increases are possible in some countries, at least for the Pro models.
The next iPhone launch is rapidly approaching, and rumors are continuing to fly about what to expect for the next-generation models. Plus, we're expecting some fresh Mac updates not too long after that.
This week also saw the fourth betas of iOS 17 and related operating system updates as Apple works toward an official release alongside the new iPhones in September, while developers will soon be able to get their hands on Vision Pro headsets to help them design their apps, so read on for all the details on the biggest stories from the past week!
iPhone 15 Pro Action Button Options Potentially Revealed
In the fourth beta of iOS 17 made available to developers this week, MacRumors contributor Steve Moser discovered potential Action button options for the iPhone buried in the code, including Flashlight, Camera, Shortcuts, Voice Memos, and many others.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 15 lineup in September, despite a manufacturing issue impacting the Pro models.
Apple Considering Price Hike for iPhone 15 Pro Models
In a research note obtained by MacRumors, Barclays analyst Tim Long said that he expects the iPhone 15 Pro to cost up to $100 more than the iPhone 14 Pro in the U.S., and the iPhone 15 Pro Max to be $100 to $200 more expensive than the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
Everything New in iOS 17 Beta 4
In addition to potential Action button options for the iPhone 15 Pro models, the fourth beta of iOS 17 includes a handful of other small additions and changes for the iPhone, so be sure to check out our article rounding up everything new in the latest beta.
iOS 17 should be released in September alongside new iPhones. In the meantime, Apple has released iOS 16.6 with bug fixes and security improvements.
iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus Said to Feature 48-Megapixel Camera That Can Capture More Light
A rumor on Weibo claims that the 48-megapixel camera lens on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will have a smaller image sensor than on the iPhone 15 Pro models.
Developers can also apply to attend Vision Pro developer labs that will be hosted by Apple in Cupertino, London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo.
Apple Suppliers Reportedly Gearing Up for New Macs Later This Year
Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view.
With every update to the iOS operating system, Apple adds new features to the built-in apps like Safari. In iOS 17, Safari gains new privacy functionality, improvements to search, updated Siri integration, and more.
This guide highlights all of the iOS 17 Safari feature additions.
Profiles
In iOS 17, Apple expanded on Tab Groups with a Profile feature that is designed to let you separate your browsing for different use cases. You can create a "Work" profile and a "Personal" profile, for example, so all of your work-related browsing is kept separate from your personal browsing.
Each profile has separate cookies, browsing history, extensions, and website data. You can turn off cookies and pop-ups on one profile, for instance, leaving them on for another profile. Profiles also have separate Favorites and Tab Groups.
Profiles can be set up by following these instructions:
Open up the Settings app.
Scroll down to Safari.
Tap on New Profile.
Select an icon, name, and background color for the profile.
Choose your settings for Favorites and Tabs.
Tap Done.
From there, you can edit profiles by tapping into them in the Settings app. In Safari, tap on the Tabs icon with two overlapping squares, then tap on the middle icon and choose the "Profile" option to change which profile is active.
Locked Private Browsing Window
Private browsing windows are now locked and require secondary authentication to unlock and access. If you hand your unlocked phone over to someone and they attempt to open your Safari private browsing tab, access will be denied without a second Face ID/Touch ID scan or a passcode.
The Face ID/Touch ID requirement keeps the private browsing tab private even if someone else has access to your iPhone or iPad. The private browsing tab is locked by default in iOS 17, but the Face ID/Touch ID requirement can be turned off by following these steps:
Open the Settings app.
Tap on Safari.
Scroll down to Require Face ID (or Touch ID) to Unlock Private Browsing.
Tap the toggle to turn it off and confirm with a Face ID/Touch ID scan. When disabled, the toggle will be gray.
Private Search Engine
In iOS 16 you can choose a default search engine to use with Safari, but in iOS 17, you can choose separate search engines for standard browsing and private browsing.
Options include Google, Yahoo, Bing, DuckDuckGo, and Ecosia. Leaving it on Default will use the same search engine that's set for standard browsing.
Open up the Settings app.
Scroll down to Safari.
Tap on Private Search Engine.
Tap on one of the Search Engine options to select it.
Exit out of the Settings.
Tracking URLs
URLs in iOS 17 can be stripped of all tracking information appended to the end of the URL so that websites cannot track your browsing using URL identifiers. This function is enabled automatically for private browsing in iOS 17, but it can be turned on for all browsing.
Here's how to remove URL-based tracking for all browser windows:
Open up the Settings app.
Scroll down to Safari.
Tap on Advanced.
Tap on Advanced Tracking and Fingerprinting Protection.
Toggle on "All Browsing."
Turning this on will ensure that all URLs opened in Safari will strip the additional tracking information that's sometimes pasted on to the end of a URL.
Hide IP Address From Websites
In iOS 17, there is an option to hide IP address from both trackers and websites or only trackers when using the iCloud Private Relay feature. With Trackers and Websites selected, IP address will be kept cloaked and websites will not be able to determine your location using that information.
In iOS 16, iCloud Private Relay was designed to hide IP address primarily from known trackers, so this is an expansion of the feature.
Search Improvements
Search is more responsive in iOS 17, so it brings up search results more quickly. It also brings up a wider range of search suggestions for you to choose from.
Apple has added favicons to top website search suggestions, and search results that come from your bookmarks, tabs, and search history are clearly marked.
Listen to Page
Siri in iOS 17 can read a website to you, which is useful if you come across a long-form article or other content that you want to listen to while you do something else. The feature works as long as Reader View is available on a website.
Open up Safari.
Navigate to the content that you want Siri to read.
Tap on the Aa icon in the address bar.
Select the Listen to Page option.
From there, Siri will begin to read the content on the page. You can pause by tapping on the Pause Listening option, and resume with the Resume Listening option. If you lock your display, you will get dedicated playback controls.
Siri will also read a page if you open up a website to a selected article and ask Siri to "Read this to me."
Shared Passwords and Passkeys
In iOS 17 (and iPadOS 17/macOS Sonoma) there is an option to securely share passwords and passkeys with friends and family members. With the sharing feature, passwords for shared media accounts, utilities, bills, and more can be provided to multiple people.
Each person can access, add to, and change passwords that are shared, with setup available by going to the Passwords section of the Settings app and choosing "Get Started" under the "Family Passwords" heading.
This is not strictly a Safari feature, but it does make logging into sites where you use shared login information simpler.
Privacy Settings
Note that privacy-focused settings that include Block All Cookies, Privacy Preserving Ad Measurement, and Check for Apple Pay have been relocated from the "Privacy & Security" section of the Safari settings to the "Advanced" section, which is more hidden.
Apple's upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are rumored to feature thinner bezels around the display compared to the current models, but this change has reportedly led to a manufacturing issue ahead of the devices launching.
iPhone 15 Pro Max replica (left) vs. iPhone 14 Pro Max (right)
Below, we recap what has been reported about the manufacturing issue and what impact it might have on the iPhone 15 Pro launch later this year.
Thinner Bezels
Multiple leakers have shared images and videos of alleged front glass panels for the iPhone 15 Pro models, and these panels appear to have considerably thinner bezels around the display compared to iPhone 14 Pro models. The bezels are expected to have a slightly curved design, and the Pro Max model could have the thinnest bezels on any smartphone ever.
iPhone 14 Pro front glass (left) vs. alleged iPhone 15 Pro front glass (right) via Bilibili
YouTube channel Unbox Therapy provided a side-by-side comparison of the bezels on an unofficial iPhone 15 Pro Max dummy model and the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
While most rumors have claimed only the Pro models will have a bezel reduction this year, a previously-accurate leaker known as Ice Universe shared an image showing that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus might have slightly thinner bezels as well.
Manufacturing Issue
Last week, The Information's Wayne Ma reported that Apple suppliers were facing challenges assembling iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max displays with thinner bezels, and he said the issue could lead to a supply shortage when the devices launch in September. He said the issue was more pronounced with the Pro Max model.
Bloomberg's Debby Wu and Takashi Mochizuki subsequently reported there was a "minor hiccup" with the displays, but said the issue should be fixed "within a week or two" and "will not have a noticeable impact on overall production."
Display Supply Chain Consultants CEO Ross Young said iPhone 15 Pro display shipments are now "ramping" as the technical issues are overcome, further increasing the likelihood that Apple will not delay the launch of the iPhone 15 Pro models. At worst, it seems that shipping estimates on launch day may slip quicker than they would have otherwise.
Other Features
Beyond thinner bezels, the iPhone 15 Pro models are rumored to feature a USB-C port, titanium frame, customizable Action button, faster A17 Bionic chip, camera improvements, Wi-Fi 6E support, increased RAM, an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip, and more. These new features coupled with inflationary pressures may lead to price increases for the devices.
On this week's episode of The MacRumors Show, we talk through how we would make changes to Apple's product lines in an attempt to make them simpler and more consumer-friendly.
Today, Apple sells eight iPhone models, six iPads, six MacBooks, four desktop Macs, two external displays, and four sets of AirPods. Some product ranges, such as the iPad lineup, have been subject to particular criticism in recent years for being overwhelming and confusing for average consumers. We discuss how Apple could simplify its offerings by presenting a clearer selection of form-factors, product names, and price points. Let us know what changes you would make to the structure of Apple's product lines in the comments.
If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up with our discussion on some of the latest major rumors about Apple's upcoming iPhone, iPad, and Mac models.
Earlier this week, Apple started accepting applications for one-day Vision Pro developer labs in Cupertino, London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo. These coding labs will allow developers to test and optimize their apps on visionOS, and Apple employees will be available to help with setup and troubleshooting.
Apple has since started emailing the first developers invited to attend these labs, which will begin next week and continue into August in the chosen cities.
"In these self-directed coding and design labs, you'll be able to test and optimize your apps on visionOS," Apple's website says. "Bring your Mac, code, and everything you need to modify, build, run, and test your app on Vision Pro."
Apple Developer Program members who are at least 18 years old can apply to attend one of the labs. Developers must have a new visionOS app in active development, or an existing iPadOS or iOS app, and Apple says priority will be given to developers who are building apps that are specially optimized for the Vision Pro.
Developers must keep the kit in a "private, secure workspace," and cannot show it to any family, friends, or other unauthorized individuals, according to Apple. The kit also must be in a developer's "direct line of sight" at all times, and stored in a locked Pelican case in a locked space when not in use, the company adds.
Apple says the Vision Pro will launch in the U.S. early next year, and third-party visionOS apps will be available through the App Store on the headset.
This week we saw a group of Apple's first party accessories hit solid discounts on Amazon and Woot, including the year's best prices on the MagSafe Charger and AirTag 4-Pack. You'll also find low prices on the M1 MacBook Air, 10.9-inch iPad, and Anker products.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Apple Accessories
What's the deal? Save on Apple's first party accessories
This week saw a big focus on solid discounts on Apple's first party accessory lineup, and all of these sales are still available. At Woot, you can get the MagSafe Charger for $28.99, down from $39.00, which is the best price of the year so far.
At Amazon, the MagSafe Battery Pack is available for $84.00 ($15 off), the Apple Pencil 2 is on sale for $89.00 ($40 off), and the AirTag 4-Pack is down to $84.99 ($14 off).
One of the best deals we tracked during Prime Day returned this week, with Amazon offering the 256GB M1 MacBook Air for $749.99, down from $999.00. You can still get this notebook in all three colors on Amazon.
All four colors of the 64GB Wi-Fi 10.9-inch iPad are available at the all-time low price of $399.00 on Amazon, down from $449.00. Only the 64GB Wi-Fi model is matching its all-time low price, although you can find some solid discounts on cellular models as well.
Anker
What's the deal? Take $200 off Eufy's SmartDrop Package Box and more deals
Anker this week emerged with a new set of discounts on Amazon and on its own website, including a return of the best-ever price on the Eufy SmartDrop Package Box at $199.99, down from $399.99. We've listed a few other deals below, but be sure to visit our original post to browse the full list of Anker accessories on sale, including USB-C chargers, portable batteries, and more.
In an effort to bolster user privacy, developers will need to justify their use of certain Apple APIs before their apps can be listed on the App Store, according to a new article on the Apple developer website spotted by 9to5Mac.
The Apple Developer website now lists some APIs as "Required Reason APIs," meaning that developers have to clarify why they are using them in their privacy manifest. Some commonly used APIs, such as UserDefaults, which stores user preferences, now fall under the Required Reason category.
With the launch of watchOS 10, iOS 17, iPadOS 17, tvOS 17, and macOS Sonoma later this year, developers will receive a warning if they submit apps using a Required Reason API without specifying its usage. From spring 2024, any apps using these APIs without a legitimate justification will be rejected in the review process.
Apple explains that main reason for this change is to curb fingerprinting, a method used to track users across different apps and websites. Fingerprinting uses API calls to gather details about a user's device, such as screen resolution, model, and operating system. This data is then used to create a unique "fingerprint," enabling the user to be identified across various apps or websites.
According to Apple, Required Reason APIs will guarantee that apps only employ these APIs for their prescribed use. In the event of a rejection, Apple will permit developers to contest the decision and submit a request for approval if their case does not fit within the existing guidelines. See the Apple Developer website for more information.
Apple today released a new update for Safari Technology Preview, the experimental browser Apple first introduced in March 2016. Apple designed the Safari Technology Preview to test features that may be introduced into future release versions of Safari.
Safari Technology Preview 175 includes fixes and updates for Accessibility, CSS, Editing, Media, Web API, and Web Inspector.
The update now features content coming in Safari 17 alongside macOS Sonoma. On Sonoma, the browser offers Profiles for separating browsing data like History and Favorites, web apps, and improved private browsing mode. Features for all operating systems include Feature Flags (replacing Experimental Features), a redesigned Develop menu, Live Text support for vertical text recognition in images and videos, HEIC support, and JPEG XL, a new image format with an improved compression algorithm for better image quality at smaller file sizes than JPEG.
The current Safari Technology Preview release is compatible with machines running macOS Ventura and macOS Sonoma, the latest version of macOS that Apple is beta testing right now.
The Safari Technology Preview update is available through the Software Update mechanism in System Preferences or System Settings to anyone who has downloaded the browser. Full release notes for the update are available on the Safari Technology Preview website.
Apple's aim with Safari Technology Preview is to gather feedback from developers and users on its browser development process. Safari Technology Preview can run side-by-side with the existing Safari browser and while designed for developers, it does not require a developer account to download.
Apple in iOS 17 introduced a range of small features and tweaks that make using the iPhone a better, and more intuitive experience. There are minor but notable changes to the keyboard, which is a key part of the operating system.
This guide highlights everything new with the keyboard and keyboard-related features.
Autocorrect
The machine learning technology that Apple is using for autocorrect has been improved in iOS 17. Apple says it has adopted a "transformer language model," that will better personalize autocorrect to each user. It is able to learn your personal preferences and word choices to be more useful to you.
After using iOS 17 for a few weeks, most users will notice that the autocorrect suggestions are much better at predicting what you want to say and presenting words for you to tap to autofill. When you use acronyms, shortened words, slang words, and colloquialisms, autocorrect is not as aggressive with the automatic correcting, but it is still able to correct accidental typos.
On stage, Apple's Craig Federighi humorously said that the iPhone would no longer swap in "ducking" for a certain swear word that you actually meant to type. The new engine still makes mistakes, but most users should find that it is improved compared to iOS 16.
Correcting Autocorrect
When autocorrect changes a word, there is now a blue line underneath the corrected word that you can tap. Tapping the blue line shows the original word that you typed, and you can tap it to choose that instead. If there are other possible autocorrect options for what you typed, those will also be displayed.
The functionality is useful for when autocorrect does correct something that you did not want fixed because it takes just a tap to revert rather than having to retype the word.
Word Autofill
Some word suggestions now pop up in line when you are typing, and you can tap on the space bar to insert them. If you start typing "Didn't" for example, the iPhone will offer 't as an autofill option after you type "didn," so that you can just tap on the space bar rather than continuing to spell out the word.
It makes for quicker typing, and this is a function that gets better as you use iOS 17 more often.
Sentence Autofill
The word autofill feature that makes suggestions inline also works for entire sentences in some cases, so you can type what you need with just a tap or two of the space bar.
Better Grammar Correction
After you finish typing a sentence, if you've used a word wrong or have another grammar error in what you've written, the iPhone will let you know by highlighting the mistake. You can tap on it to see suggested corrections.
As an example, if you write a sentence and accidentally swap "affect" for "effect," the iPhone can tell and will suggest the word you should be using instead, or in some cases, just correct it. This is true for then/than, they're/their/there, two/to/too, your/you're, its/it's, and other common grammatical errors. iOS 16 corrected some of these issues, but iOS 17 does more.
Dictation
The Dictation feature built into the iPhone has been updated with the same transformer language model that Apple is using for text, so dictation should be able to better suss out what you're attempting to say when there are multiple word options.
Dictation is still far from perfect in our testing, and it does take some time to get better.
Stickers as Emoji
Emoji are an integral part of the keyboard, and in iOS 17, stickers and emoji have been merged. If you tap on the emoji icon on the keyboard, it will bring up emoji and also all of your stickers. The end result is that you can use stickers in more places across the operating system, and in the Messages app, emoji can be used like stickers and can be placed anywhere.
In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a thief was hitting a string of bars and restaurants, breaking into safes and stealing cash. One of the bars impacted was the Sneaky Beagle, and the location was burgled several times, leading the staff to set up a sting that involved an AirTag.
As outlined by WMBF News, staff at the Sneaky Beagle opened up a stuffed animal, stuck an AirTag inside, and put the AirTag-and-animal combo into a decoy safe.
The thief, who turned out to be a 52-year-old man, took the bait and stole the safe. Police officers were able to track the AirTag to the thief's home, and he was able to be connected to multiple burglaries in the area. He was arrested and charged with nine counts of second-degree burglary.
Apple this week began allowing developers to apply for a Vision Pro developer kit, which Apple plans to loan out to some companies and individuals for the purpose of app development. Developers who are approved for a headset will need to go through a customization process, which will provide a tailored fit for the lead person on the team.
As shared by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman and a MacRumors reader, Apple will use an app to help developers find the correct Head Band and Light Seal fit for the Vision Pro. The "W" could perhaps refer to width, while the "N" may reference the size of the nose bridge, which are measurements used for fitting glasses and other optical devices.
Developers who wear glasses and need optical inserts will be put in touch with Zeiss to send Zeiss prescription information.
Here’s the form a developer will need to fill out when they are approved for a Vision Pro development kit + the Measure and Fit app that uses the camera to determine head band and light seal size. Lenses will come from Zeiss directly. pic.twitter.com/TG7Zuzgcay
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) July 27, 2023
Based on the information that's been shared, kits will be tuned to a single developer, and other developers on the team may not be able to experience Vision Pro to its fullest because a snug fit between the face and the Light Seal is required.
Information on Apple's developer website also mentions a workflow for unpairing an AirTag when returning a kit, which suggests Apple is using its item trackers to keep tabs on the headsets. Vision Pro developer kits are shipped in a lockable Pelican case that needs to be kept locked when the headset is not in use, and developers must keep the headsets in a secure location. An AirTag could perhaps be included in the storage case to allow it to be tracked down in the event of a theft.
Each developer that receives a kit will have the testing process overseen by a partnership manager, and developers will receive extra help with app development. Apple plans to prioritize developers who are creating apps that take advantage of the visionOS features and capabilities.
While Apple has been accepting applications since earlier this week, there is no word yet on whether any developers have had their applications approved. It is not yet clear when developer kits will be shipped out, and we may not know because Apple is overseeing the testing process so closely.
As laptops have seen simplified connectivity options in recent years, many users have embraced a variety of USB-C and/or Thunderbolt hubs and docks to increase their connectivity options. These accessories have proven particularly popular with users seeking to replicate a desktop experience at home or in the office with one or more external displays.
Anker recently launched a new option for power users with the 778 Thunderbolt Docking Station, a Thunderbolt 4 dock that provides a wealth of ports for connecting displays, external drives, and other accessories, all through a single cable that can also charge your laptop.
The 778 Thunderbolt Docking Station includes a total of 12 ports: an upstream Thunderbolt 4 port that provides up to 100W of charging power for your laptop, a downstream Thunderbolt 4 port, two USB-C ports that each support up to 10Gbps data speeds and 30W of charging power, two 5Gbps USB-A ports, two 480 Mbps USB-A ports for peripherals like a wired keyboard and mouse, a Gigabit Ethernet port, an 8K HDMI 2.1 port, and two DisplayPort 1.4 ports.
The two USB-C ports, a power button, and an LED status light are located on the front of the dock for easy access, while the upstream Thunderbolt port is on the left side and a Kensington NanoSaver-style lock slot is on the right side. All other ports are on the rear of the dock to keep the cables organized and out of the way.
The overall design is pretty straightforward with a non-obtrusive dark gray and black look including subtle Anker branding on the top of the dock. The main shell appears to be made of something like aluminum, while the front and rear panels with the majority of the ports are made of plastic with vertical grooves at regular intervals to provide a little bit of visual interest. A couple of rubber-like strips on the bottom help protect surfaces and provide just a bit more airflow around the dock.
I found solid data speeds for external SSDs connected via the dock in my testing, with a USB-C drive delivering around 700 MB/s for read and write when connected to either the downstream USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 port or one of the USB-C ports. Using a faster Thunderbolt external SSD connected to the Thunderbolt 4 port, I saw read speeds of around 2,500 MB/s and write speeds in excess of 1,800 MB/s. All of those stats were in line with what I see for those drives when connected directly to my 16-inch M1 ProMacBook Pro.
There are a couple of notable limitations for Mac users with this dock, led by the fact that it does not support M1 and M2 MacBook models, so you need to be using a higher-end model with a Pro, Max, or Ultra chip.
Another limitation for Mac users is related to the connectivity options for multiple external displays. While there are two DisplayPort ports and an HDMI port, connecting two displays to any combination of those ports will only let one of the displays extend your desktop to an external screen. The other display will only be able to mirror either the first external screen or your internal Mac display.
Triple-display (two external and one internal) setups are still possible on Macs, but one of the external displays must be connected via USB-C/Thunderbolt in order to fully extend across all three displays. Setups with three or even four external displays are possible for Mac users, but will involve some mirroring, limiting the usefulness.
For Mac users, the Thunderbolt port can support up to a 6K display at 60Hz, while the HDMI and DisplayPort ports each support a maximum of 4K at 60Hz.
On the charging front, I noted that the upstream Thunderbolt port can deliver 100 watts to your laptop, but there is some power sharing that will reduce that depending on what else is drawing power via the dock. With one of the front 30W USB-C ports in use, the upstream Thunderbolt will continue to deliver up to 100W, but if both front USB-C ports are in use simultaneously, that available Thunderbolt power drops to 65W.
To drive everything, the 778 dock comes with a 180-watt external power supply that is nearly as big as the dock itself, but at least it can be tucked away on the floor or behind other equipment. A 0.7-meter Thunderbolt 4 cable is also included, and the dock is covered by an 18-month warranty.
A simple Anker Dock Manager app is also available to manage firmware updates for the dock, access the user manual, and contact Anker support.
Users with simpler needs can probably get away with a cheaper USB-C or Thunderbolt dock, but the 778 delivers high bandwidth through a variety of ports, offers flexible display connectivity, and can push 100 watts of power to your notebook, making it a solid docking option.
The 30-watt USB-C ports on the front are nice for charging an iPhone and/or iPad at high speed, though your passthrough computer charging will take a hit if you have too many things connected. The dock also does not include an SD card slot or any dedicated audio ports, so that's something to be aware of if those features are important to you.
Note: Anker provided MacRumors with the 778 Thunderbolt Docking Station for the purpose of this review. No other compensation was received. MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Anker and Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
