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A federal judge has pared down a lawsuit against Apple that accuses the tech giant of violating the privacy of iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch users by collecting personal data through its own apps, such as the App Store, Apple Music, and Apple TV.
Apple Is Owed a Heated Privacy Lawsuit Regarding Its Apps Photo Credit : Reuters
In a ruling from U.S. District Judge Edward Davila, based in San Jose, California, the court dismissed most claims tied to Apple’s "Allow Apps to Request to Track" setting on its mobile devices. This feature controls how third-party apps track user activity. However, the judge allowed some claims to proceed, particularly those focusing on the "Share [Device] Analytics" setting.
At the heart of the lawsuit, users allege that Apple misled them by promising that disabling certain privacy settings would restrict the company’s ability to collect, store, and use their data. Despite these assurances, users claim that Apple ignored their choices and continued to gather personal information. The case is one of many that have emerged against technology companies like Apple, Google, and Meta, accusing them of data collection without user consent.
In a detailed 39-page ruling issued late Thursday, Judge Davila highlighted that Apple had been transparent in explaining the "Allow Apps to Request to Track" setting, noting it only applied to data collection by third-party apps and websites. The judge concluded that it would be unreasonable for users to believe that by turning this setting off, they were stopping Apple from collecting data through its own services.
However, the ruling took a different tone regarding the "Share [Device] Analytics" setting. Judge Davila found that users could reasonably argue they had withdrawn consent for data collection when disabling this option. Apple’s own disclosures suggested that turning off this setting would entirely stop the sharing of device analytics, giving users a plausible case.
Apple has stated that data gathered through the "Share [Device] Analytics" setting is used to improve its products and services. The company, along with lawyers for the plaintiffs, has yet to respond publicly to the judge's decision.
The lawsuit, which seeks unspecified damages, underscores growing concerns around how tech giants handle personal data, sparking legal challenges that could shape the future of privacy in the digital age.
OpenAI Shakes Up Leadership: CTO Mira Murati Steps Down Amid Major Executive Changes
In a surprising turn of events, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addressed the resignation of Mira Murati, the company’s Chief Technology Officer, who announced her departure after six and a half years of spearheading innovation at one of the most influential AI companies in the world. Altman shared the news in a post on X (formerly Twitter), expressing both admiration for Murati’s contributions and regret at her departure.
CEO of OpenAI Sam Altman responds to the resignation of longstanding CTO Mira Murati
A Visionary Departure
“Mira has been instrumental to OpenAI’s progress and growth,” Altman stated, emphasizing her role as a visionary leader behind the company's ascent from a small research lab to a global powerhouse in artificial intelligence. He admitted that her decision to leave was a bittersweet moment for him: “I was saddened when she informed me this morning that she was leaving, but of course, I support her decision.”
Murati’s leadership was not confined to technological advancements alone. As CTO, she championed some of OpenAI's most groundbreaking innovations, including ChatGPT, DALL-E, and Codex, all while shaping the company's approach to AI ethics and societal impact. Her departure, therefore, marks not only the end of an era for OpenAI's technological trajectory but also for its philosophical outlook on the responsible development of AI.
Murati’s exit is only part of a broader leadership shift at OpenAI. Altman also revealed that two other key figures—Research Chief Bob McGrew and Vice President of Research Barret Zoph—are stepping down. Although Altman reassured that the departures were independent, he noted that the timing was carefully synchronized to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Despite the loss of these senior executives, Altman emphasized that OpenAI is well-prepared for the future. Murati had spent the last year assembling a team of strong leaders capable of continuing the company's rapid growth. “Mira has been building out a strong bench of leaders that will continue our progress,” Altman assured, signaling a seamless transition into the company's next phase.
New Leaders, New Directions
In light of these exits, Altman announced a series of key appointments to maintain momentum. Mark Chen, a seasoned OpenAI researcher, will step into the role of Senior Vice President of Research. Though the transition was part of a broader plan, Altman acknowledged that it was happening earlier than anticipated. Chen will collaborate closely with Jakub Pachocki, who now takes on the position of Chief Scientist. Together, they will steer OpenAI’s ambitious research agenda forward.
Additionally, Josh Achiam has been named Head of Mission Alignment, tasked with ensuring that OpenAI stays true to its long-term objectives. Matt Knight has officially been appointed as Chief Information Security Officer, solidifying the company’s focus on safeguarding its technological assets. These new appointments demonstrate OpenAI’s commitment to bolstering its leadership and doubling down on its growth strategy, even amidst the departure of top talent.
The Weight of Leadership at OpenAI
Altman was candid about the intense demands placed on OpenAI's leaders, acknowledging that the pressures of heading such a fast-paced, high-profile organization can be overwhelming. “Being a leader at OpenAI is all-consuming,” he admitted. With the company valued at over $150 billion and racing to maintain its lead in AI innovation, the challenges are manifold—not just in pushing technological boundaries, but in addressing the ethical questions that come with them.
Murati’s exit, alongside those of McGrew and Zoph, underlines the strain of balancing rapid innovation with ethical considerations, especially in an environment that demands constant, cutting-edge progress. While Altman framed the leadership changes as part of a natural evolution, he admitted that the swift nature of these shifts has been particularly striking: “We are not a normal company,” he remarked, referring to the unique pressures and scrutiny OpenAI faces from the public, the industry, and policymakers.
Moving Forward Without Murati
As OpenAI prepares to forge ahead without one of its most influential figures, questions loom about the company’s future direction. Murati’s role in driving both technological breakthroughs and ethical debates has left a profound mark on OpenAI. Her absence will undoubtedly create a significant gap, one that will be difficult to fill. Yet Altman remains optimistic, stressing that the company's next generation of leaders is well-equipped to carry the torch.
The leadership transition will be a key topic at OpenAI’s upcoming all-hands meeting, but Altman’s message is clear: OpenAI is not slowing down. With a refreshed leadership team in place, the company is charging ahead, poised to continue shaping the future of artificial intelligence, even as it bids farewell to one of its most visionary leaders.
Apple recently launched its much-anticipated iPhone 16 series in the Indian market. However, within a short span, users have started reporting significant problems with the iPhone 16 Pro, specifically related to the touchscreen. The complaints focus on delayed responses, missed taps, and general unresponsiveness, as first highlighted by 9to5Mac.
Issues with the iPhone 16 Pro's Touchscreen: Users Report Delays in Reaction When Tapping or Swiping the Screen; See How Internet Users React
According to the report, the issue appears to be software-related rather than a hardware defect. Many users have noticed problems when interacting with the screen, particularly around the camera control on the right side. Some speculate that the phone’s ultra-thin bezels might be a contributing factor, leading iOS to misinterpret user inputs.
Apple officially unveiled its highly anticipated iPhone 16 series during the "It's Glowtime" event on September 9, 2024. Just as the latest models hit the shelves in India and other major markets, rumors about the next-generation iPhone 17 series—expected to launch in late 2025—are already making waves online. And if early reports are to be believed, Apple is planning some groundbreaking changes.
120Hz LTPO OLED Displays on the Upcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Slim: Report Photo credit: Apple
A Glimpse Into the Future: iPhone 17 Rumors
According to Ross Young of Display Supply Chain Consultants, the iPhone 17 and a redesigned iPhone 17 Slim could introduce advanced display technology that has so far been exclusive to Apple’s Pro models. In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), Young suggested that these upcoming models might feature screens with a dynamic refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz. This would be a significant leap for Apple's non-Pro lineup, which has traditionally lagged behind in display performance.
Breaking Down Apple's Display Evolution
Apple's journey into high-refresh-rate displays began with the iPhone 13 Pro series in 2021, where they introduced the 120Hz ProMotion display. This technology allowed for smoother scrolling and more responsive touch input. Recent Pro models, like the iPhone 14 Pro, took this a step further with LTPO AMOLED screens, enabling features such as the always-on display.
If Young’s prediction holds true, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Slim could be the first non-Pro iPhones to offer this cutting-edge display technology. Currently, even the newly launched iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are limited to 60Hz displays—paling in comparison to some budget Android phones that offer higher refresh rates at a fraction of the cost.
What’s Next for the Pro Models?
While the iPhone 16 lineup brings modest improvements, the iPhone 17 Pro series is expected to raise the bar significantly. According to leaks, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could come with 12GB of RAM, a vapor chamber cooling system for better heat management, and Apple’s next-gen 2nm chipset, which will be manufactured by TSMC in 2025.
The Countdown Begins
As Apple continues to push the boundaries of smartphone technology, all eyes are now on the iPhone 17 series. If these rumors are any indication, the gap between Apple’s Pro and non-Pro models could start to close, offering more premium features to a wider audience. Whether it’s through upgraded displays, enhanced performance, or superior cooling systems, the iPhone 17 looks set to redefine expectations when it arrives in 2025.
For now, iPhone enthusiasts can enjoy the iPhone 16 series, but the future of smartphones is already taking shape—and it’s going to be exciting.
This morning, long lines of eager Apple enthusiasts formed outside the company’s flagship stores in Delhi and Mumbai as the iPhone 16 series officially went on sale in India. Fans of the brand flocked to the stores early, hoping to be among the first to experience Apple’s latest smartphone offering. The excitement around the iPhone 16 series has been building ever since its grand unveiling earlier this month at Apple’s highly anticipated Glowtime event.
Large crowds gather at Apple locations in Delhi and Mumbai when the iPhone 16 goes on sale. Observe
Both the Apple store in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) and the store in Saket, Delhi, witnessed impressive turnouts. The sight of people queuing up outside the stores demonstrates the enduring appeal and excitement that surrounds each new release from Apple. From tech aficionados to casual users, fans from across the two cities were eager to get their hands on the cutting-edge device, showcasing the continued influence and draw of Apple’s product launches in India.
On September 9, Apple introduced its newest iPhone 16 series during the "It's Glowtime" event. This lineup includes the standard iPhone 16, the larger iPhone 16 Plus, the advanced iPhone 16 Pro, and the top-tier iPhone 16 Pro Max. These devices will come pre-installed with the latest iOS 18, and they will be available for purchase starting on September 20. Interestingly, users with older but still supported iPhone models will have the chance to experience iOS 18 before the iPhone 16 hits the shelves. Apple is set to begin the global rollout of iOS 18 on supported devices starting Monday.
Today, Apple's iOS 18 is released worldwide: Verify the Release Time, Compatible iPhone Models, and Features. Photo credit : Apple
iOS 18 brings a range of exciting customization features, allowing users to modify app icon tints and colors, rearrange apps on the home screen, and personalize widgets. However, one of the most anticipated features—Apple Intelligence—powered by generative AI, will not be available immediately. This revamped AI-powered Siri and other intelligence features are expected to roll out in a future update. The new AI capabilities will be available on all iPhone 16 models, but among older models, only the iPhone 15 Pro series will support these advanced features.
As for the iOS 18 release, it will begin globally on September 16. Although Apple has not provided an exact time, past releases have typically occurred at 10 a.m. PT (10:30 p.m. IST).
The iOS 18 update is compatible with a range of iPhone models. Devices supported include the second and third-generation iPhone SE, as well as the iPhone XR and all models released after that. Here is a complete list of iPhones that will support iOS 18:
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
- iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max
Once iOS 18 is available, users can easily update by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update on their device.
Aside from the delayed Apple Intelligence features, iOS 18 comes packed with various enhancements. One standout upgrade is the increased control over home screen customization. Users will now be able to freely rearrange apps and widgets, resize them, and even lock or hide sensitive apps. Additionally, users can apply different color tints to app icons or match them to their wallpapers, creating a more personalized look.
The Control Center has also been revamped, offering more functionality. Users can access a wider range of controls with a single swipe and even rearrange them as they wish.
Apple has also improved the Photos app, making it easier to organize and find images and videos. Meanwhile, the Messages app is getting new features, including the ability to add animated effects to messages, even to individual emojis. Additionally, iOS 18 introduces support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging, and users will be able to schedule messages to be sent at a later time.
At Apple's recent iPhone 16 launch event, they unveiled the Watch Series 10 models and a fresh new color option for the Watch Ultra 2, which now also comes with a sleek titanium Milanese loop band. However, one thing noticeably absent from the stage was any news about the Apple Watch SE, the more budget-friendly model, which hasn’t seen an update since 2022.
But the wait might soon be over. Reports indicate that Apple is working on a completely reimagined version of the Watch SE, set to debut with a bold new plastic body. This fresh take on the SE is expected to be even more affordable than the current 2022 model, and could hit the market as early as next year.
Currently in development, the Apple Watch SE with a plastic body is anticipated to launch in 2025.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has offered some intriguing details in his latest PowerOn newsletter. While the existence of a plastic-bodied Watch SE was known from earlier reports, Gurman now reveals more about why Apple is taking this route. The big idea? Appeal to a younger crowd, offering an Apple Watch that’s not only affordable but fun, with vibrant colors that harken back to the iPhone 5c—Apple’s famously colorful and budget-friendly phone from 2013.
It’s not yet clear if Apple will offer a metal version of this new Watch SE alongside the plastic one, but Gurman is certain about one thing: these bold colors are designed to catch the eye, and the watch could be a game-changer, especially for kids. With many U.S. schools enforcing smartphone bans during school hours, a colorful, affordable Apple Watch with cellular capabilities might just be the perfect solution for students to stay connected without breaking the rules.
Though still in development, the plastic Watch SE is making steady progress, and a launch next year seems likely. Apple has faced some challenges in maintaining quality while transitioning to plastic, but once their premium models fully switch to titanium, the SE’s development should speed up.
On the performance front, Gurman hints at a “processor jump” for the new SE. While it’s unclear what chip Apple will use, it’s expected to outshine the current SE, which runs on the same dual-core Apple S8 chip found in the Watch Series 8. That means the new SE could deliver a more powerful experience without compromising its affordability, making it an enticing option for young users and budget-conscious Apple fans alike.
The plastic Apple Watch SE seems poised to bring a fresh, youthful energy to Apple’s lineup, with its vibrant colors, affordability, and next-gen capabilities, all while filling a niche in today’s tech-savvy school environments. It’s a smart move from Apple, and it will be exciting to see how this plays out when it hits the market next year.
Apple is gearing up to reveal the highly anticipated Apple Watch Series 10 (or Watch X) during the "It's Glowtime" event on September 9. Rumors and leaks have been swirling, hinting at some exciting new features and upgrades that will set it apart from the Series 9. One of the biggest changes? The Series 10 could feature larger displays, possibly moving beyond the current 41mm and 45mm sizes. Plus, you can expect an upgraded heart rate sensor and better water resistance.
What’s New in the Apple Watch Series 10?
According to reports, the Apple Watch Series 10 will come with an enhanced heart rate sensor, possibly providing more precise readings and unlocking new health features. Leaks have even suggested it could detect sleep apnea, a function that many users will find incredibly useful. Another major improvement could involve how your health data is processed. Instead of the watch doing all the heavy lifting, it looks like Apple is developing new algorithms for the iPhone’s Health app to analyze data from the heart rate sensor. This might allow for better detection of conditions like atrial fibrillation.
Currently, the Series 9 offers water resistance up to 50 meters, but it’s not ideal for high-speed water activities or scuba diving. For that, Apple fans have had to rely on the Apple Watch Ultra, which has up to 100 meters of water resistance. But the Series 10 is expected to step up its game, offering water resistance suitable for high-speed water sports up to 20 meters deep. It’s also tipped to support Apple’s Depth app, which was previously exclusive to the Watch Ultra, making it even more adventure-friendly.
Bigger and Bolder
The Apple Watch Series 10 is rumored to come in two new sizes: 44mm and a larger 48mm, perfect for those who love bigger screens. With this size upgrade, you might also see new watch faces. One of the rumored faces, "Reflections," could change depending on the ambient light around you, adding a fresh, dynamic touch. There’s also talk of a new Hermès "Regatta" watch face, inspired by sailing competitions, which might include a built-in timer.
All these exciting updates are making the Apple Watch Series 10 a hot topic. If these rumors hold true, this smartwatch could be a game-changer for both fitness enthusiasts and tech lovers alike. Stay tuned for the official launch!
Apple is preparing to launch its newest iPhone, powered by the advanced A18 chip, which has been designed using Arm's state-of-the-art V9 architecture. Arm, now owned by SoftBank, is the force behind this innovation, as reported by the Financial Times. The unveiling will take place at Apple's much-anticipated fall event on September 9 at their headquarters in Cupertino, California, where they are also expected to introduce a range of new devices and software upgrades.
The A18 Chipsets in the iPhone 16 Series Utilize Arm's V9 Technology: Report
Last year, Apple solidified its long-term collaboration with Arm, signing a contract that will continue beyond 2040. This partnership is a huge win for Arm, whose V9 chip technology is already responsible for generating half of all smartphone revenue worldwide, as the company revealed in July.
Arm’s influence in the tech industry is immense, providing the blueprint for the computing architecture used in most smartphones today. Apple relies on this technology to craft its custom chips, which are central to the performance of its iPhones, iPads, and Macs. The relationship between Apple and Arm goes way back—Apple was one of the original backers when Arm was founded in 1990. Although the "Newton," Apple’s first handheld device released in 1993 using an Arm-based processor, failed to make waves, Arm's energy-efficient chips quickly became the backbone of mobile phone technology, offering longer battery life.
At the upcoming event, Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 16 lineup, which will include the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Along with new iPhones, Apple is also likely to unveil new versions of the Apple Watch, AirPods, and other devices. Additionally, fans can expect an announcement about the rollout of the latest software updates, including iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS, providing a complete look at what’s coming next from Apple.
Top tech stories today: Apple is moving to OLED screens; Nvidia has both legal and financial problems; Starlink will abide by the X block in Brazil.
Apple’s Transition to OLED Displays
Apple is preparing to transition all its iPhone models sold in 2025 to organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, according to a report from Nikkei. The shift marks a departure from the liquid crystal displays (LCDs) that Apple has traditionally used in many of its models. This change could lead to significant shifts in Apple's supply chain, with companies like Japan’s Sharp Corp. and Japan Display potentially losing their prominent roles in providing displays for Apple devices. Instead, the company may turn to manufacturers such as China’s BOE Technology and South Korea’s LG Display to meet its OLED requirements. However, no official confirmation or denial has been made by the involved companies regarding the report.
OLED displays are highly valued in premium devices due to their superior ability to showcase vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and sharper contrasts compared to LCDs. This technology enhances the overall viewing experience, offering more accurate color reproduction, less distortion, and better shading for media content.
Nvidia Faces Market Drop and Legal Scrutiny
Nvidia’s shares fell by 9.5% on September 3, 2024, marking one of the most significant single-day declines in U.S. market history, as reported by Reuters. This sharp decline, which wiped out $279 billion from Nvidia's market capitalization, was driven by growing concerns among investors about the costs and sustainability of AI technology. The loss followed similar trends at Intel, which also saw its stock drop nearly 9%.
Additionally, Nvidia is grappling with legal challenges, as the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a subpoena to the company in connection with antitrust concerns. According to Bloomberg News, regulators are investigating whether Nvidia’s customers are being restricted from switching to competitors, or if users are being coerced into depending exclusively on Nvidia's products. These legal hurdles come at a time when the chipmaker is already under intense scrutiny for its dominant role in AI and high-performance computing technologies.
Starlink to Restrict X Access in Brazil Amid Legal Battle
Elon Musk’s satellite internet service Starlink has agreed to restrict access to his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) for users in Brazil, following a legal dispute with the country’s authorities. Brazil’s Supreme Court judge, Alexandre de Moraes, had earlier ordered the freezing of Starlink's accounts to enforce fines and compelled the company to block access to X. The country’s telecom regulator, Anatel, revealed that Starlink initially resisted the court’s order but later reversed its stance.
The legal confrontation between Musk and de Moraes has escalated tensions, with the judge demanding that X appoint a legal representative in Brazil or face being blocked entirely. Musk, on the other hand, has publicly mocked the judge through social media posts. Though access to X is still available in Brazil through VPNs, users who bypass the block could face penalties. Starlink currently serves over 200,000 customers in Brazil, making this decision highly impactful for its user base.
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