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

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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.

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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

APPLE’S BOLD MOVE INTO AI: NEW IPHONE 16, AIRPODS AND WATCHES

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.

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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?

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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.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR IPHONE & IPAD FROM MALWARE

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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)

LITTLE-KNOWN SECRET WAY TO CLEAN YOUR AIRPODS THE RIGHT WAY

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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Technology

OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

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OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

OpenAI announced yet another reorganization Friday, consolidating certain areas and making company president Greg Brockman the official lead of all things product.

In a memo viewed by The Verge, Brockman wrote that since OpenAI’s product strategy for this year is to go all-in on AI agents, the company is combining its products to “invest in a single agentic platform and to merge ChatGPT and Codex into one unified agentic experience for all.”

To do this, the company is making a suite of org chart changes, although it’s still operating under some of the same ones from last month. That’s when AGI boss Fidji Simo went on medical leave and OpenAI announced that Brockman would be in charge of product strategy and CSO Jason Kwon, CFO Sarah Friar, and CRO Denise Dresser would take control of business operations.

It’s all part of OpenAI’s recent strategic shift to focus on key revenue drivers like coding and enterprise and stop pouring resources into “side quests” ahead of its potential IPO later this year and amid investor pressure to turn a profit.

In Simo’s continued absence, Brockman’s role leading product strategy is now official, as well as the company’s “scaling” arm. Under Brockman will be four different pillars. The first is core product and platform, led by Thibault Sottiaux, who has been OpenAI’s engineering lead for Codex, and the second is critical enterprise industries, led by ChatGPT head Nick Turley. Third is the consumer pillar, such as health, commerce, and personal finance, which will be led by Ashley Alexander, who has been its healthcare products VP. The fourth pillar — core infrastructure, ads, data science, and growth — will be led by Vijaye Raji, who has been OpenAI’s CTO of applications.

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Brockman wrote in the memo that OpenAI’s goal is now to “bring agents to ChatGPT scale, in order to give individuals and organizations significantly more value and utility from our products.”

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Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

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Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

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You’re going about your day when your phone buzzes. A text hits your phone. It looks official. It sounds urgent. And suddenly, you are being told you owe money for a traffic violation. That is exactly what Todd from Texas experienced. He emailed us and said:

“I received this text message today. It was so baffling because I haven’t lived in California for nearly a decade. I didn’t click on anything or respond. How can I tell if this is for real or if this is a scam?”

If you’ve gotten a message like this, you are not alone. This type of scam is spreading fast, and it is designed to pressure you into acting before you think. Let’s break down what is really going on.

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FAKE AGENT PHONE SCAMS ARE SPREADING FAST ACROSS THE US

This message may look official, but several red flags show it is likely a scam designed to pressure you into paying quickly. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What the traffic ticket scam text looks like

At first, the message seems convincing. It claims to be a “final reminder” from the California DMV, and it warns of penalties like license suspension and added fees. It even includes a link that appears somewhat official. However, once you slow down and take a closer look, the red flags quickly start to pile up.

The biggest red flags in this message

Here are the key warning signs to watch for in messages like this.

9 WAYS SCAMMERS CAN USE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO TRY TO TRICK YOU

1) The phone number makes no sense

The message comes from a number with a +63 country code. That is the Philippines, not California. Government agencies in the U.S. do not send official legal notices from international numbers. That alone is a major warning sign.

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2) No name, just “Dear Driver”

Legitimate notices from a DMV or court almost always include your full name or at least some identifying information. “Dear Driver” is vague on purpose. It allows scammers to send the same message to thousands of people.

3) The link isn’t a real DMV website

The message includes this link:

ca.mnvtl.life/dmv

That isn’t a government domain. Official DMV websites in California use “.ca.gov” or similar trusted domains. Scammers often create lookalike links to trick you into clicking.

4) Urgency and threats

The message pushes you to act quickly with a deadline. It lists consequences like license suspension and extra charges. Scammers rely on fear. When you feel rushed, you are more likely to click without thinking.

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FBI WARNS OF DANGEROUS NEW ‘SMISHING’ SCAM TARGETING YOUR PHONE

5) Asking you to reply to proceed

The text says to reply with “Y” to get instructions. That is another trap. Responding confirms your number is active, which can lead to more scam messages.

6) Generic language and odd phrasing

Parts of the message feel slightly off. The tone is formal but not quite right. That subtle awkwardness is common in scam messages sent to large groups of people.

7) Overloaded threats designed to scare you

The message piles on consequences like license suspension, added fees, court action and even credit damage. In this case, it even mentions a license suspension and a $160 late payment charge. That combination is meant to overwhelm you and push you to act fast. Real agencies usually provide clear, specific notices, not a long list of escalating threats in a single text.

INSIDE A SCAMMER’S DAY AND HOW THEY TARGET YOU

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Scam texts like this often arrive out of nowhere and try to create urgency before you have time to question them. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What this means for you

Even if you have never driven in California, you could still receive this message. Scammers cast a wide net and hope someone takes the bait. If you click the link, you could be taken to a fake payment page. That page may ask for your credit card details, personal information or login credentials. In some cases, it can also install malware on your device or redirect you to credential-stealing pages. This isn’t about a ticket. It is about getting your data.  State DMVs typically do not send final legal notices or payment demands by text message.

Why these scams keep working

These messages work because they tap into something most people fear. Legal trouble, fines and losing driving privileges. They also look just real enough to pass a quick glance. That is all scammers need. As more services move online, these scams will continue to evolve.

Unlike typical DMV scams, this message impersonates a court and escalates the threats to make the situation feel more serious (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Ways to stay safe from traffic ticket text scams

Start with a simple rule. Never trust a payment request that shows up out of nowhere. Here are practical steps you can take:

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1) Do not click the link

If you are unsure, do not tap anything in the message. That includes links and reply options.

2) Use strong antivirus software

If you accidentally click a link, strong antivirus software can help detect malware and protect your data. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

3) Verify directly with the DMV

Go to your state’s official DMV website by typing it yourself into your browser. Do not use the link in the text.

4) Check the sender carefully

Look at the phone number. International numbers or random strings are a clear warning sign.

5) Ignore generic greetings

Real notices will usually include your name or case details. Vague language is a red flag.

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6) Consider a data removal service

Scammers often get your number from data broker sites. Removing your personal info from those databases with a data removal service can reduce these messages. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com

7) Block and report the number

On your phone, block the sender and report it as spam. This helps reduce future attempts.

8) Turn on spam filtering

Enable spam filtering on your phone or through your carrier to catch more of these messages before they reach you.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Todd did the right thing. He paused, questioned the message and did not click. That one decision likely saved him from handing over personal information. When it comes to messages like this, skepticism is your best defense. If something feels off, trust that instinct.

Should phone carriers and tech companies be doing more to block scams like this before you ever see them? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

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Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

Honda revealed prototypes of two new hybrid models, an Accord sedan and the Acura RDX SUV, during its annual business briefing this week, built on a platform that it says will begin launching next year. The RDX was announced earlier this year as Honda’s first SUV to feature the next-gen version of its two-motor hybrid system.

In March, Honda announced it would take a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) on its EV investments. Now Honda says its EV-related losses will be “resolved” by 2029, and that it will reevaluate its EV plans in 2030.

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