Apple Is Owed a Heated Privacy Lawsuit Regarding Its Apps

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 Judge Davila found that users could reasonably argue they had withdrawn consent for data collection when disabling this option.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. 

Issues with the iPhone 16 Pro's Touchscreen: Users Report Delays in Reaction When Tapping or Swiping the Screen; See How Internet Users React

iPhone 16 Pro Touchscreen Issues: A Closer Look

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.

120Hz LTPO OLED Displays on the Upcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Slim: Report

 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.

Large crowds gather at Apple locations in Delhi and Mumbai when the iPhone 16 goes on sale. Observe

 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.

Today, Apple's iOS 18 is released worldwide: Verify the Release Time, Compatible iPhone Models, and Features.

 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.

The A18 Chipsets in the iPhone 16 Series Utilize Arm's V9 Technology: Report

 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.

 

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.