Technology

iOS 18: Discover new features in Apple's latest operating system

Published

4 months ago

September 19, 2024

Press Room

iOS 18: Discover new features in Apple's latest operating system

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Apple has released the latest version of its iOS operating system, iOS 18. The company first showcased the OS during WWDC 2024 in June and began rolling it out to iPhones on Sept. 16.

In many ways, iOS 18 can be considered the biggest iOS update in a while as it introduces big changes in design, features and overall usability.

The iPhone 15 Pros and the new iPhone 16 models also pack some artificial intelligence features you won’t find on other iPhones. I’ll walk you through some of the key iOS 18 features you should know about.

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IOS 18 new features (Apple)

Which iPhones will get the iOS 18 update?

Before you read about the features, it’s important to know if your iPhone will get the newest iOS update. Below is the list of iPhones eligible for the iOS 18 update.

iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd gen), SE (3rd gen)
iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13 mini, 13, 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
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max

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8 iOS 18 features everyone should know about

IOS 18 is a massive update with tons of improvements and new features. I’m not going to dive into every single one, but here are eight of my favorites. I’ve been using some of them for a while now, since I was part of the beta program, which gave me early access.

1. Home Screen customizations

If you’ve been using iPhones for a while, you know Apple hasn’t given you much control over how things look on screen. That changes now with iOS 18 as the company has introduced several new features that let you personalize your iPhone’s Home Screen.

You can now freely place app icons and widgets anywhere within the Home Screen grid. This is something Android users have been flexing on iPhone users about for quite some time. In a way, it makes your iPhone feel a lot more personalized.

Apple is also letting you change the color of your apps and widgets on the Home Screen. You can switch between light and dark mode, and the icons will adjust accordingly if the app has a dark mode icon available.

iPhone Home Screen customization (Apple)

IS IT TIME FOR ME TO UPGRADE TO NEW IPHONE?

2. The most significant Photos redesign

This major update to Photos enhances the ease of finding and reliving special moments. The elegant, streamlined layout presents the library with a unified yet familiar view. New collections such as Recent Days, People & Pets, and Trips use on-device intelligence to automatically organize the library, allowing you to spend less time searching and more time enjoying your memories. You can also personalize your experience with a customizable layout that highlights what matters most to you and pin favorite collections for quick access.

3. Locking and hiding apps

There are some apps you might want to keep on your phone but don’t want others to know about. With iOS 18, iPhone users can now lock any app behind Face ID, Touch ID or a passcode, ensuring no one can open the app without your authentication. If you want to take things a step further, you can use the hiding feature.

When you hide an app, it won’t appear in your app library or search results. You won’t receive any notifications from the app unless you open the dedicated hidden folder from the app library. The only way to access this folder is by using Face ID, Touch ID or a passcode.

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4. Upgraded Messages app

Apple has added some cool new features to the Messages app. You can now use text effects for specific words in your messages, with options like big, small, shake, nod, explode, ripple, bloom and jitter. Plus, there are new formatting options that are a lot like what you’d find in Google Docs or Microsoft Word.

The Messages app also gets an upgraded Tapback system, so you can react to messages with a wider range of emojis or stickers, not just the Apple-approved ones from before. Another new feature is scheduling, which lets you set messages to be sent at a later time.

Upgraded Messages app (Apple)

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5. Siri is getting an AI boost

Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, has been pretty limited so far. It often just points you to Apple’s website or insists on searching the web for almost every question. However, with iOS 18, Apple is giving Siri a major AI upgrade. The new Siri will be able to handle more complex questions and remember what you say, kind of like ChatGPT.

Apple also says Siri will be able to see what’s on your screen and help with any questions you have. Plus, it’ll be able to find specific messages, pictures or files. For example, you could ask Siri to locate the email you received from your colleague about the project last month or show you the recipe you saved for your favorite pasta dish.

However, the new Siri won’t be available with the initial iOS 18 release. Apple says the upgrade is still a work in progress and will be coming either near the end of the year or at the beginning of 2025.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

6. Control Center changes

The Control Center gets a new multipage layout with a Controls Gallery where third-party developers can add their own widgets. You can even swap the new controls onto the lock screen, replacing the flashlight and camera icons.

Apple has also introduced a new API that lets third-party apps add controls to the revamped Control Center. For example, Apple has shown how the Ford app will use this API to let you start your vehicle, open the trunk and more right from the Control Center.

7. RCS (rich communication service) support

You won’t really notice or get much out of RCS if most of your friends and family use iPhones. RCS is designed to improve texting between iPhone and Android devices.

It’s an upgrade from SMS/MMS. It adds things like typing indicators, delivery and read receipts, higher-quality photos and videos, and the ability to text over Wi-Fi or mobile data instead of just relying on your carrier’s network. It also makes it easier to manage group chats, like letting you leave conversations.

8. iPhone mirroring

With iOS 18, Apple has made it easier for iPhones and Macs to work together. The new iPhone Mirroring feature lets you control your iPhone directly from your Mac by showing your iPhone’s screen on your Mac. You can use your Mac’s mouse, keyboard and trackpad to manage iPhone apps, check notifications and more. This feature will basically create a digital version of your iPhone on your Mac.

What about all the AI features?

Most of the AI features under Apple Intelligence won’t be available with the initial iOS 18 release. As I mentioned earlier, these will roll out in later iOS 18 updates, possibly at the end of this year or early 2025. However, the features I talked about earlier will be ready right after you install the iOS 18 update, except for the upgraded Siri.

How to install iOS 18 update?

Tap on Settings
Tap on General
Tap on Software Update
If an update is available, it will give you the option to download and install.

To keep your phone up to date, you can turn on automatic updates. Just go to the Software Update screen, click on “Automatic Updates” and switch on all the services you want to update automatically.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

iOS 18 is an exciting upgrade with lots of improvements for your iPhone. You can personalize your phone and use cool features like iPhone Mirroring to better connect with your other Apple devices. The Messages app now includes fun effects to spice up your texting experience. However, it’s a bit disappointing that the Apple Intelligence features, which have been hyped since WWDC, won’t be available right away with the initial release.

Which iOS 18 feature do you think you’re going to use the most? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Technology

Chinese auto giant wants to make flying cars your next commute option

Published

19 minutes ago

January 10, 2025

Press Room

Chinese auto giant wants to make flying cars your next commute option

GAC Group, a prominent automotive manufacturer from China, is making waves in the transportation sector with the launch of its new eVTOL brand, Govy.

This development reflects GAC’s commitment to sustainable air travel, as the company taps into its extensive automotive expertise and innovative technology to create fresh solutions for urban mobility.

With Govy, GAC is not just entering the flying car market; it’s setting the stage for a new era in how we think about commuting and connectivity in our cities.

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Flagship aircraft of Govy named AirJet. (Govy)

Introducing the AirJet

The flagship aircraft of Govy, named AirJet, is a revolutionary composite-wing flying car designed to operate as an air taxi for distances of up to 124 miles. This innovative vehicle combines the efficiency of fixed-wing aircraft with the flexibility of multi-rotor systems, allowing for vertical takeoff and landing capabilities.

The AirJet is constructed with over 90% carbon fiber composite materials, making it remarkably lightweight — just one-third the weight of a conventional car of similar size. This lightweight design not only enhances performance but also enables longer electric flights.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Flagship aircraft of Govy named AirJet. (Govy)

EVTOL PROTOTYPE PROMISES 150 MPH CITY-TO-CITY HOPS

Performance and features of the AirJet

In terms of performance, the AirJet is powered by GAC’s proprietary electric drive system, which allows it to reach impressive speeds of up to 155 miles per hour. The current model boasts a range exceeding 124 miles, with ambitious plans to extend this range to 249 miles through the development of future solid-state battery technology. Additionally, the AirJet can be recharged in just 30 minutes, ensuring quick turnaround times for operations.

The AirJet is designed with both luxury and safety in mind. It features a spacious cabin with a “1+1+X” seating arrangement that provides flexibility for passengers. The aircraft is equipped with autonomous flight capabilities, allowing for seamless operation without human intervention. Safety is paramount in the design of the AirJet. It includes advanced safety systems such as redundant power and control systems, real-time monitoring, and obstacle detection to ensure secure flights.

Flagship aircraft of Govy named AirJet. (Govy)

AN ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT THE MILITARY HAS ITS EYES ON CAN TAKE OFF WITH ONLY 150 FEET OF RUNWAY

The robo-air taxi system

GAC’s vision extends beyond individual aircraft to encompass a comprehensive Robo-AirTaxi system that integrates ground and aerial transport for end-to-end smart mobility solutions. This system will utilize the Govy AirCar for short urban trips under 12.4 miles and the AirJet for mid-range travel up to 124 miles. A key aspect of this vision is the creation of a “40-minute Greater Bay Area life circle” in China, which aims to facilitate efficient intercity travel and significantly reduce transit times and costs.

Flagship aircraft of Govy named AirJet. (Govy)

THIS FLYING ELECTRIC VEHICLE BREAKS RECORD WITH 523-MILE NONSTOP FLIGHT

Future plans and commercialization

Looking ahead, GAC has outlined an ambitious roadmap for Govy. By 2025, the company aims to achieve airworthiness certification for its flying cars, establish production lines, and begin taking pre-orders from customers. Furthermore, GAC plans to launch demonstration operations in two to three Greater Bay Area cities of China by 2027.

Flagship aircraft of named AirJet. (Govy)

Kurt’s key takeaways

With the introduction of Govy and its flagship AirJet, GAC Group is positioning itself at the forefront of urban aerial transportation. By combining innovative technology with a comprehensive ecosystem approach, GAC aims to transform urban mobility into something smarter, safer, and more sustainable. As we move toward a future where aerial vehicles become an integral part of our transportation networks, GAC’s initiatives could play a pivotal role in shaping how we navigate our cities and connect with one another.

Would you feel comfortable using flying cars like the Govy AirJet for your daily commute, and why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Drone takes out Super Scooper fighting Los Angeles wildfires

Published

9 hours ago

January 10, 2025

Press Room

Drone takes out Super Scooper fighting Los Angeles wildfires

An aircraft helping to fight wildfires that are raging across Los Angeles was struck by a civilian drone on Thursday. The collision damaged the wing of the aircraft — a CL-415 “Super Scooper” capable of scooping up 1,600 gallons of ocean water to drop onto nearby blazes — according to a statement by the LA County Fire Department posted on X, putting it out of service until it can be repaired.

Cal Fire spokesman Chris Thomas told The New York Times that grounding the aircraft will likely set back local firefighting efforts. Super Scoopers can typically refill in about five minutes. But even if it takes ten, that’s six water drops that are lost each hour according to Thomas. “So whose house is not going to get that water to protect it?” The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says the Super Scooper landed safely after the drone impact, and that the incident is now under investigation.

Temporary flight restrictions have been implemented in the Los Angeles area that prohibit drones and other aircraft from flying without FAA authorization in an effort to protect firefighting efforts.

According to LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone, the drone was not assigned to help tackle the Palisades fires, and was destroyed in the collision. Marrone told the LA Times that the FBI is now planning to implement so-called “aerial armor” in the area to prevent further interference from drones.

Several people online have violated the FAA-enforced flight restrictions, posting viral drone photos and video footage across social media showing the devastation from what appears to be prohibited airspace. Fire response agencies are often forced to ground their own aircraft to avoid collisions when dummies fly drones near wildfires for online clout.

“It’s a federal crime, punishable by up to 12 months in prison, to interfere with firefighting efforts on public lands,” the FAA said in a statement. “Additionally, the FAA can impose a civil penalty of up to $75,000 against any drone pilot who interferes with wildfire suppression, law enforcement or emergency response operations. The FAA treats these violations seriously and immediately considers swift enforcement action for these offenses.”

Technology

How to easily print photos from your phone

Published

10 hours ago

January 10, 2025

Press Room

How to easily print photos from your phone

Are you an aspiring Android or iPhone photographer? Both Android OS 15 and iOS 18 bring professional photography features to their new smartphones with advancements made in artificial intelligence-assisted photo processing and top-of-the-line digital camera sensors in the top-line smartphones.

Even if you don’t enjoy taking photos directly from your smartphone, most cameras now allow you to instantly transfer pictures from a camera to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

You can also print high-quality pictures from your phone, and it’s surprisingly easy. Here are a few different ways to print a photograph from your smartphone.

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A photo printer with SD cards sitting on top of it. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Using a Wi-Fi-enabled printer

Many of the most popular printers available today feature Wi-Fi functionality, and if you have a Wi-Fi-enabled printer, you can print photographs directly from your phone. Most modern photo printers are fully wireless, allowing you to easily print photos directly from their Android or iOS smartphones. Check out my top printer picks here. Here’s how to print from a wireless printer on both Android and iOS:

For iPhone:

Ensure your printer supports AirPrint and is connected to your phone’s Wi-Fi network.
Open the Photos app, select the photo you want to print, tap the share icon, and choose Print.
Choose your printer and adjust any print settings.
Click Print in the upper right of the screen.

For Android:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

Connect your printer to the same Wi-Fi network as your phone.
Go to Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences > Printing.
Select Default Print Service or a third-party print service plugin.
Open the photo you want to print in your gallery app, tap the share icon, and select Print.

Using a portable photo printer

Portable photo printers are handy for printing on the go. They usually connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and come with apps for easy printing. Portable photo printers are a great idea if you want a compact photograph printer that’s great for taking with you on trips. Many portable printers are small enough to fit in a travel bag and are battery-powered, so there’s no wired setup necessary. Check on my picks for the best portable printers here.

A portable photo printer being used. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

TOP PRINTERS 2025

Using an online photo printing service

You can also use apps or websites like Shutterfly or Snapfish that offer photo printing services. Upload your photos, choose your print options, and have them delivered to your home or picked up at a local store. Similar services are also available at your local print shops or even at big-box stores such as Staples, which also provide high-quality poster and image printing. Using a print service and shop to process your photographs can be a great idea, as you can rest assured that your photographs are being printed on high-quality prints with great printers.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Laptop with photos. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

4 WAYS TO PRINT OUT, SAVE, AND SEND YOUR IPHONE’S TEXT MESSAGES

Transferring photos to your computer

You can transfer your photos to your computer and print them from there using your home printer. This is a great option if you have an older printer or an older photo printer that doesn’t support Wi-Fi. Here’s a list of our printer recommendations. I recommend looking at the options for color printers that we’ve highlighted. We made the list for everyone, so we made sure to include printers that can print beautiful photographs with ease. Here’s how to do it from an iPhone to your computer:

Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to your computer.
Make sure your iPhone or Android is unlocked.
If prompted, tap “Trust This Computer” on your iPhone or Android.
On a Mac, open the Photos app.
On a Windows PC, open the Photos app or File Explorer.
On a Mac, click on “Import” in the Photos app and select the photos you want to transfer.
On a Windows PC, click “Import” in the Photos app, or copy and paste photos from File Explorer.

Printing photos

Make sure your printer is connected to your computer (via USB or network).
Open the photos you want to print on your computer.
On a Mac, go to “File” > “Print” in the Photos app.
On a Windows PC, right-click the photo and select “Print” or use the print option in the Photos app.
Choose your printer and configure print settings (size, quality, etc.).
Click “Print” to start printing your photos.

A man transferring photos from his phone to his computer to print. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Kurt’s key takeaways

It’s exciting to see how both Android and iPhone have stepped up their game in mobile photography. With all the cool AI features and top-notch camera tech, taking amazing photos is a breeze. Plus, printing those memories is super easy now, whether you’re using a Wi-Fi printer, a portable one, or an online service.

What challenges have you faced while trying to capture or print your photos, and how did you overcome them? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

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