This Week in Tech: From GTA VI Delays to Android 16’s Revolution

April–May 2025 Recap

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1. GTA VI Launch Postponed to May 26, 2026

Fans eagerly awaiting Grand Theft Auto VI got disappointing news: Rockstar Games has officially delayed the release from 2025 to May 26, 2026. This marks the third announced launch window in as many years. While the extra development time promises a more polished open world, those holding off on older titles may need to find other ways to pass the time until Vice City’s return.

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2. Apple Doubles Down on “Make in India”

Apple’s global supply chain continues to shift away from China:

• Two new plants are coming online to boost local iPhone assembly.

• Tata Electronics in Hyderabad will add production lines for legacy iPhone models.

• Foxconn’s ₹2.6 billion Tamil Nadu mega-factory is gearing up to build the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup—and create 500 new jobs.

This expansion underscores India’s growing importance as an electronics hub—and sets the stage for even deeper manufacturing ties.

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3. Asus Unveils Premium “Scar” Laptop Series

Asus refreshed its gaming-focused lineup with four high-end models:

• ROG Strix Scar 16 & 18

• Strix G16

• Zephyrus G14 & G16

All start well above ₹100,000, packing the latest Intel Core HX CPUs, NVIDIA RTX 40-series GPUs, and 240 Hz+ displays—appealing to pro gamers and creators alike.

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4. OnePlus Nord C5: Dimensity 8350 & 7,100 mAh Battery

The mid-range OnePlus Nord C5 has just cleared BIS certification, hinting at an imminent launch. Key specs:

• MediaTek Dimensity 8350 (1.4–1.5 million AnTuTu)

• 7,100 mAh battery + 80 W fast-charging

Expect a price around ₹20,000 and a focus on endurance and performance in its segment.

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5. Android 16: A UI & Interaction Overhaul

Google’s next big OS drop, Android 16, is slated to reshape the look and feel of every phone it touches. Highlights include:

• Physics-based animations (e.g. elastic “squeeze” effects when pressing the power button)

• Redesigned Quick Settings tiles and animated volume slider

• Interactive lock-screen clock and notification behaviors

These UX tweaks aim to make every swipe, tap, and scroll feel more dynamic and alive.

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6. iQOO Neo 10 Global Variant on Geekbench

iQOO has quietly launched the Neo 10’s global edition on Geekbench, revealing:

• Dimensity 8s (Zen 4) chipset

• Single-core: 293 pts; Multi-core: 6,836 pts

• 12 GB RAM

This mid-ranger promises flagship-adjacent performance at a competitive price point—watch for a summer launch.

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7. Samsung’s “Modular Lens” Patent

Samsung has been granted a patent for a modular smartphone concept—allowing users to swap in different camera lenses (wide-angle, telephoto, macro) like interchangeable optics on a mirrorless camera. While still speculative, it shows Samsung exploring new ways to differentiate its Galaxy lineup.

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8. Nothing F 3 Rolling Out in July

Nothing CEO Carl Pei confirmed the F 3 will hit U.S. shelves first, with an India launch slated for July. Expect an AMOLED panel, high refresh rate, and the signature “Essential Button” for quick controls—bringing the minimalist design ethos to a wider audience.

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9. Deal Alert: Join “Track & Tech” on Telegram

Looking for the best bargains? Subscribe to our Track & Tech Telegram channel for 20–25 daily deals—from smartphones like POCO M7 Pro (₹11,999) to tablets and wearables. Check the video description for the join link.

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10. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Ultra-Flagship Success

Despite a staggered release, the Galaxy S25 Ultra has out-sold both the S25 and S25 Plus combined, moving 5.08 million units versus 4.08 million for its siblings. Clearly, consumers in 2025 still have a hunger for top-tier hardware—and a willingness to pay for it.

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Rapid Fire Updates

• Apple Store Expansion: Four new outlets coming to Pune, Noida, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

• Galaxy Z Flip 7 Rumors: Likely outfitted with Exynos in one variant, Snapdragon in another—price expectations around $1,100.

• WhatsApp Web Calls: Soon you’ll be able to make audio & video calls directly from your desktop browser.

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What’s Next?

Subscribe and stay tuned—our deep dive on Android 16’s new features drops next week, along with hands-on reviews of the OnePlus Nord C5 and iQOO Neo 10. Keep tracking, and keep safe!

Tech Titans Under Fire: Apple’s Tariff Shuffle and Amazon’s Cloud Challenge

By [Your Name] – [Date]

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Apple’s $900 M Tariff Headache

In its latest earnings call, Apple CFO Luca Maestri revealed that up to $900 million in U.S. tariffs could hit iPhone production costs this quarter alone—yet Tim Cook confirmed the company is aggressively shifting assembly out of China.

• Current Status: Roughly 50 percent of U.S.–destined iPhones have already moved to Vietnam, with the goal of 100 percent relocation to India and Vietnam by next year.

• Scale of the Hit: Against $95 billion in quarterly revenue, the tariff cost is, in the words of Morgan Stanley, a “rounding error” unlikely to derail profits.

• Stock Outlook: Analysts peg $170 per share as a near-term floor, barring a serious escalation in U.S.–China trade tensions.

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Amazon’s Earnings Miss and AWS Slowdown

Meanwhile, Amazon’s share price dipped after a cautious forecast and slower growth at AWS, its cloud arm that has been a key profit driver.

• Key Figures:

  • Earnings Warning: Amazon cited macroeconomic headwinds impacting consumer spending.

  • AWS Growth: Slipped below analysts’ expectations, raising questions about enterprise IT budgets.

• Broader Implications: As Amazon leans into AI and precision logistics, sustaining its cloud growth will be critical to offset e-commerce margin pressures.

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Beyond Hardware: App Store & Antitrust Risks

Apple’s fortunes extend far beyond iPhone sales—30 percent commissions on App Store transactions and default search-licensing deals with Google account for a sizable slice of operating income. Yet regulatory challenges loom:

• App Store Antitrust: A pending court ruling (scheduled for August) could force Apple to allow third-party app stores or reduce its commission structure.

• Search Royalties: Google’s monopoly search judgment might curtail its $10 billion-plus annual payments to Apple for default status.

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China Demand Cooling & AI Opportunity

Although iPhone aficionados remain loyal, Cook admitted Chinese smartphone sales are flattening, prompting Apple to diversify its revenue streams:

• AI Momentum: Every new ChatGPT or Anthropic download generates App Store revenue—and tech executives expect AI-powered apps to become a major growth engine.

• Market Diversification: India and Southeast Asia are rising as top growth markets, mirroring production shifts.

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Looking Ahead

• Apple: Must balance supply-chain resilience with regulatory adaptation—whether it’s tariff avoidance or App Store reform.

• Amazon: Needs to reignite AWS momentum while managing consumer-retail cyclicality.

In an era of geopolitical tariffs and antitrust scrutiny, the world’s tech behemoths are proving that operational agility—and the ability to pivot factories, partnerships, and product roadmaps—remains their greatest competitive edge.

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Disclosure: This article uses publicly reported figures and analyst commentary.

 Searching for iPhone 15 sale details

The title "iPhone 15 Price Slashed By Over Rs 22,000 During Amazon Sale" seems like clickbait, so I need to find accurate information to present an informative article. Since the deal is mentioned in Indian Rupees, it’s safe to assume this refers to an Indian sale. I don’t need to rely on the user’s location info in this case. I'll search for more details on the iPhone 15 price drop in the Amazon India sale to include in an article and find some relevant images too.

Searching for iPhone 15 deal details

I’m looking into the claim that the iPhone 15 price was slashed by over Rs 22,000 during the Amazon sale. It’s probably referring to an overall discounted price, not just one simple price drop. I couldn't find an exact match, but I’m seeing that the iPhone 15’s price after offers is Rs 56,749, which is about Rs 23,000 off the original price of Rs 79,900. I'll keep digging into this so I can explain the sale more clearly for the user.

Finalizing article details

I’m focusing on the iPhone 15’s features: Dynamic Island, A16 Bionic chip, and its camera system. For instructions on how to grab the deal, I’ll make it clear that the Amazon Summer Sale starts on May 1, with Prime early access at midnight, and general sale at noon. I need to encourage readers to act fast before stocks run out.

As for images, I’m deciding to add a carousel with images of the iPhone 15, Amazon Sale banner, and similar visuals to make the post more engaging.

Creating a product-focused article

I plan to highlight the iPhone 15’s features: Dynamic Island, A16 Bionic chip, and camera system. To share the deal, I'll note that the Amazon Summer Sale goes live at noon on May 1, with Prime members getting early access at midnight. I’ll advise readers to act fast before stocks run out, and I’ll include citations for credibility.

As for the images, I think adding a carousel with the iPhone 15, sale graphics, and other relevant visuals would be a great way to engage readers.

Thought for 32 seconds

iPhone 15 Price Slashed By Over ₹22,000 During Amazon Summer Sale: Check The Deal Here

New Delhi, May 1, 2025 — Apple’s 2023 flagship, the iPhone 15 (128 GB), has received its deepest cut yet in the ongoing Amazon Great Summer Sale, dropping from its launch price of ₹79,900 to just ₹56,749—a saving of ₹23,151 for buyers. (India Today)

How the Deal Breaks Down

• Original Launch Price: ₹79,900

• Sale Price for Prime & Non-Prime Members: ₹56,749 on Amazon India (India Today)

• Total Savings: ₹23,151 (over 28% off) (India Today)

When and Where to Buy

• Sale Window: May 1, 2025, from 12 noon IST (Prime members get early access at midnight).

• Platform: Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025 on amazon.in (India Today)

• How to Grab It: Log in with your Amazon Prime account at 12 AM for exclusive early-bird pricing, or head to the sale page at noon as a standard member.

Why It Still Makes Sense in 2025

Despite being one generation behind, the iPhone 15 remains a robust performer and feature-rich device:

• Display & Design: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED with Dynamic Island notch—premium look and feel. (India Today)

• Processor: A16 Bionic chip delivering smooth multitasking and gaming performance. (India Today)

• Camera System: Dual rear cameras—48 MP main sensor + 12 MP ultra-wide—for crisp daylight and low-light shots. (India Today)

• MagSafe & Durability: Built-in MagSafe support, IP68 water/dust resistance, plus five years of iOS updates. (India Today)

Should You Pull the Trigger?

At ₹56,749, the iPhone 15 offers a compelling mix of cutting-edge design features, reliable performance, and a versatile camera system—making this sale an ideal entry point for anyone eyeing a flagship-level iPhone without the flagship price. Act fast: stocks are limited, and demand is high.

New Tata Plant Starts iPhone Production as Foxconn Nears Launch in India

 New Tata Plant Starts iPhone Production as Foxconn Nears Launch in India

A newly commissioned Tata Electronics facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, has begun manufacturing older iPhone models, marking Apple’s first production run at the site as it diversifies away from China. Sources say the plant, built under a ₹16 billion investment, is already rolling out iPhone 12 and 13 units for both domestic sale and export. (New Tata plant starts iPhone production, Foxconn close behind as Apple looks to India, sources say)

Just days behind, Foxconn’s $2.6 billion campus in Bengaluru is poised to start operations imminently. When fully online—expected later this year—the Foxconn site will assemble the latest iPhone 16 and 16 e models, creating an estimated 50,000 jobs and expanding Apple’s local manufacturing footprint from one to three major facilities. (New Tata plant starts iPhone production, Foxconn close behind as Apple looks to India, sources say)

India’s share of global iPhone output has climbed to 18%, up from just 5% two years ago, while China still produces roughly 75%. Apple aims to shift production of most U.S.-bound iPhones to India by 2026, partly to mitigate the impact of potential U.S. tariffs and ongoing Sino-American trade frictions. In March alone, Indian factories exported over $2 billion worth of iPhones, with Foxconn contributing $1.3 billion of that total. (New Tata plant starts iPhone production, Foxconn close behind as Apple looks to India, sources say)

Apple’s acceleration in India underscores a broader strategy to “future-proof” its supply chain through geographic diversification. Analysts note that expanding assembly in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka not only reduces tariff exposure but also taps into India’s burgeoning electronics ecosystem and workforce. (New Tata plant starts iPhone production, Foxconn close behind as Apple looks to India, sources say)

• Reuters

Apple has released iOS 18.5 Beta 2

 April 22, 2025 — Cupertino, CA

Apple has released iOS 18.5 Beta 2 to developers (April 14) and public testers (April 22), giving iPhone 16 users an early look at minor but welcome tweaks ahead of the full release expected in mid-May. This update focuses on refining core apps, polishing the interface, and squashing bugs to ensure a smoother experience on Apple’s latest hardware. (Apple Releases New iOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5 Public Betas - MacRumors, iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)

Mail App Customization

Beta 2 continues Apple’s iterative adjustments to the Mail app, responding to user feedback on the new design introduced in iOS 18.2. Two key changes stand out for iPhone 16 users:

• Toggle Contact Photos: You can now disable the enlarged contact photos directly within Mail by tapping the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and switching off “Show Contact Photos,” rather than digging into Settings.

• All Mail Tab: The previously hidden “All Mail” section now appears as a dedicated fifth tab alongside Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions, making it far easier to access your unfiltered inbox. (Everything New in iOS 18.5 Beta 2 - The Mac Observer, iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)

Streamlined AppleCare Display

In Settings → General → AppleCare & Warranty, Beta 2 introduces a refreshed banner that puts your warranty status front and center. A new link takes you straight to detailed coverage information, and you can manage your AppleCare plan more seamlessly by selecting devices from your Apple Account list. (Everything New in iOS 18.5 Beta 2 - The Mac Observer, Apple Releases New iOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5 Public Betas - MacRumors)

Bug Fixes & Performance Improvements

Under the hood, iOS 18.5 Beta 2 fixes several issues affecting newer hardware:

• Vision Pro App: The bug causing the app to launch to a black screen on iPhone has been resolved.

• HVF Framework: A system-level fix ensures iOS correctly checks for certain C APIs in the hvf (Hypervisor Framework), restoring reliable access to hardware features for developers.

• General Stability: Additional tweaks optimize background tasks and reduce crashes for a snappier feel on A16-powered devices. (Everything New in iOS 18.5 Beta 2 - The Mac Observer, Apple Releases New iOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5 Public Betas - MacRumors)

What iPhone 16 Users Should Know

• Beta Disclaimer: As with all pre-release software, Beta 2 may impact battery life and exhibit unforeseen bugs. Apple recommends installing it on a secondary device rather than your daily driver. (iOS 18.5 Public Beta 2 Just Dropped. Don't Get Too Excited - CNET)

• Release Timeline: Following Beta 2, Apple is expected to seed iOS 18.5 Beta 3 in late April, with the public release likely landing in the third week of May—consistent with past .5 updates. (iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)

• Looking Ahead: iOS 18.6 developer betas should begin in May, but the next headline features will arrive with iOS 19 at WWDC in June. (iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)

Apple is undertaking a significant shift in its manufacturing strategy by planning to assemble all iPhones sold in the U.S. in India by the end of 2026.

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Apple is undertaking a significant shift in its manufacturing strategy by planning to assemble all iPhones sold in the U.S. in India by the end of 2026. This move aims to reduce dependence on Chinese manufacturing amid escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and associated tariffs. (Apple looks to shift iPhone production to India by the end of 2026, Apple to shift most US iPhone production to India by 2026 to avoid China tariffs: reports)

📱 Apple’s Manufacturing Transition: From China to India

Historically, Apple has relied heavily on Chinese facilities, with approximately 80% of iPhones sold in the U.S. being assembled there. However, recent U.S. tariffs—reaching up to 145% on Chinese imports—have prompted Apple to diversify its supply chain. In contrast, India faces a lower tariff rate of 26%, making it a more cost-effective alternative. (Apple, be careful what you wish for in trading China for India, Apple estudia trasladar de China a India el ensamblaje de los iPhone que vende en EEUU)

To facilitate this transition, Apple is collaborating with Indian partners like Foxconn and Tata Electronics. Notably, Tata has acquired a 60% stake in Pegatron's Indian subsidiary, enhancing its role in iPhone production. Apple has also expedited shipments from India, airlifting 600 tons of iPhones—approximately 1.5 million units—to the U.S. in March 2025. (Apple estudia trasladar de China a India el ensamblaje de los iPhone que vende en EEUU, India's Tata Electronics buys 60% stake in Pegatron local arm for iPhone plant, Apple to shift most US iPhone production to India by 2026 to avoid China tariffs: reports)

🇮🇳 India's Growing Role in iPhone Production

Apple initiated iPhone assembly in India in 2017, starting with the iPhone SE. Since then, production has expanded to include flagship models, with facilities primarily located in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Currently, India produces about 20% of Apple's global iPhone output, with plans to increase this to meet U.S. demand. (Apple May Shift to Making US iPhones in India. It Won't Be Easy, India Has a Golden Opportunity to Capture U.S. Business From China)

⚠️ Challenges Ahead

While India's manufacturing sector presents opportunities, it also poses challenges. The country’s complex regulatory environment and infrastructure limitations could impact production scalability. Additionally, reports suggest that Chinese authorities have delayed shipments of manufacturing equipment to India, potentially hindering Apple's transition efforts. (India Has a Golden Opportunity to Capture U.S. Business From China, Apple to move assembly of US phones to India in shift away from China | Business and Economy News, How China is trying to stop Apple's 'big' iPhone move to India)

Despite these hurdles, Apple's strategic shift underscores its commitment to diversifying its supply chain and mitigating geopolitical risks. (Apple, be careful what you wish for in trading China for India)

• The Guardian

• New York Post

• Reuters

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.