iOS 18 may be ‘the biggest’ software update from Apple in iPhone history

Apple is gearing up for what could potentially be the most monumental software update in its history with the upcoming release of iOS 18. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg has shared insights suggesting that this anticipated update might stand as a watershed moment for the company, setting the stage for an exciting reveal at Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) slated for June.

In his recent Power On newsletter, Gurman hinted at the magnitude of iOS 18, hinting that it could mark a significant milestone in Apple's software evolution. He expressed anticipation, indicating that the forthcoming WWDC event promises to be an electrifying showcase for what lies ahead.

This revelation builds upon Gurman's earlier speculation, where he characterized Apple's aspirations for iOS 18 as ambitious and compelling. While specific details about the update remain under wraps, Gurman's past reports have alluded to significant enhancements, including a revamped Siri powered by advanced AI technology. Anticipated improvements also extend to the Messages app, where users can expect enhanced auto-completion features and improved question handling.

Moreover, Apple Music aficionados can look forward to auto-generated playlists—a feature mirroring Spotify's successful introduction last year. Beyond user-facing enhancements, Apple is rumored to be exploring integrations of generative AI into developer tools like Xcode, aimed at accelerating app development processes. Additionally, productivity apps such as Pages and Keynote are poised to receive updates harnessing the power of generative AI.

In a notable shift, iOS 18 is expected to embrace RCS (Rich Communication Services) support, as Apple signaled its intention to integrate the RCS standard into iOS by 2024. Apple's decision underscores a strategic move toward enhancing interoperability, acknowledging RCS as a superior alternative to traditional SMS or MMS messaging standards. However, it's important to note that while Apple's adoption of RCS is on the horizon, messages exchanged between Android and iPhone users will continue to display as green bubbles—an iconic feature of non-iMessage conversations.

As we await the unveiling of iOS 18 in June, the tech community eagerly anticipates further revelations leading up to the official announcement. With expectations set high, Apple enthusiasts and developers alike are poised to witness a significant leap forward in iOS evolution.

Signal Introduces Usernames for Encrypted Messaging: A Secure Way to Connect

Signal, the encrypted messaging service, is launching a new feature in the coming weeks: support for usernames. This beta feature allows users to establish unique usernames, enabling connections without divulging phone numbers. source: Signal Blog To create a username, navigate to your settings and select "Profile." Once you've chosen a unique username, generate a QR code or link to share with others. Recipients can connect by entering your username into the chat bar. Usernames can be changed at any time, though previous usernames may be claimed by others. Signal began testing usernames last fall. Unlike social media platforms, Signal usernames do not serve as logins or public handles. They offer a discreet means of communication without revealing personal phone numbers. While a phone number is required to register for Signal, sharing it is optional. Usernames remain private and do not appear on profiles or in chats unless shared explicitly. As Randall Sarafa, Signal'...

AT&T Resets Millions of Customer Passcodes After Data Leak: What You Need to Know

AT&T recently confirmed a significant data breach affecting over 7.6 million current customers and 65 million former customers. The leaked information, which dates back to 2019 or earlier, includes personal details like names, addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers. Fortunately, financial information and call history were not compromised. In response to the breach, AT&T has reset passcodes for affected customers. Passcodes, usually four-digit numbers, serve as an additional layer of security when accessing accounts. However, security experts warn that the encrypted passcodes leaked alongside customer information could be easily deciphered, posing a risk of unauthorized account access. Affected customers are advised to set up free fraud alerts with major credit bureaus and remain vigilant for any suspicious activity related to their accounts. AT&T is proactively reaching out to impacted customers via email or letter to inform them about the breach and the meas...

Apple sues former iOS engineer for allegedly leaking confidential product details

Apple has taken legal action against a former employee, Andrew Aude, for allegedly leaking confidential information to journalists and employees of other companies. The lawsuit, filed in California state court, accuses Aude of divulging undisclosed details about Apple's Journal app, the development of the VisionOS headset, regulatory compliance strategies, employee headcounts, and other product hardware characteristics. According to the lawsuit, Aude reportedly communicated extensively with a Wall Street Journal journalist, referred to as "Homeboy," over 1,400 times using an encrypted messaging app between June and September 2023. He also shared a final feature list for an unannounced Apple product with "Homeboy" over the phone and exchanged over 10,000 text messages with another journalist at The Information, even traveling across the continent to meet her. Apple alleges that Aude leaked a list of finalized features for Apple's Journal app in a phone call w...

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