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iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma: Compatibility and Device Updates Revealed

iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma

At the highly anticipated Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023, Apple took the stage to introduce a range of new operating systems, including iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma. Excitement filled the air as attendees and Apple enthusiasts eagerly awaited details about the features and devices that would be supported by these latest OS updates.

Starting with iOS 17, some Apple devices found themselves left out of the loop. The iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X will not receive iOS 17. However, a silver lining emerged for owners of newer iPhone models. Compatible devices include the iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, the second-generation iPhone SE, and all subsequent iPhone releases.

Shifting the focus to iPadOS 17, there are a few notable exceptions regarding device compatibility. The 5th-generation iPad and 1st-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro will not be able to run iPadOS 17. However, a wide range of iPad models will support the new OS, including the 6th generation iPad and later, iPad mini 5th generation and later, iPad Air 3rd generation and later, 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2nd generation and later, 10.5-inch iPad Pro, and 11-inch iPad Pro 1st generation and later.

For Apple Watch users, the compatibility landscape remains straightforward. All devices that support watchOS 9 starting with the Apple Watch Series 4, will be compatible with the upcoming watchOS 10, ensuring a seamless transition for Apple Watch enthusiasts.

Finally, Apple revealed the compatible devices for macOS Sonoma, the latest version of its desktop operating system. While some older models did not cut, numerous Mac devices are ready to embrace the new OS. Compatible devices include iMac models from 2019 and later, Mac Pro models from 2019 and later, iMac Pro (2017), Mac Studio since 2022, MacBook Air models from 2018 and later, Mac mini models from 2018 and later, and MacBook Pro models from 2018 and later.

As Apple pushes forward with its operating system updates, device compatibility plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and optimized user experience. While some users may find themselves unable to upgrade their older devices to the latest OS versions, the focus on supporting newer models guarantees that users can take full advantage of the advanced features and functionalities offered by iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma.

Apple Unveils macOS Sonoma: A Leap Forward in Desktop Computing

macOS Sonoma

Apple unveils macOS Sonoma, the newest iteration of its desktop operating system. Packed with impressive features, macOS Sonoma, also known as macOS 14, promises to enhance the user experience and take desktop computing to new heights.

One of the standout features of macOS Sonoma is the support for widgets on the desktop. Users can drag widgets from the Action Center directly onto the desktop or import them from their iPhones if the devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. These interactive widgets allow users to perform various tasks, such as checking off items on a to-do list, controlling media playback, or managing connected smart home devices. As an added convenience, the widgets will seamlessly fade into the background when the corresponding window is maximized, ensuring an uncluttered workspace.

In a move that showcases Apple’s dedication to gaming on Mac, macOS Sonoma introduces an exciting Game Mode. This option values CPU and GPU resources for gaming, decreasing latency when using AirPods, Xbox, or PlayStation controllers. Apple has even engaged the help of famed game creator Hideo Kojima, who just announced the release of the highly anticipated Death Stranding Director’s Cut on macOS. Mac users can anticipate an optimized and immersive gaming experience like never before with Game Mode support for any game.

The macOS Sonoma update also brings significant enhancements to video conferencing. With the new Presenter Overlay feature, users can display content, such as slideshows, behind the speaker while cutting out the speaker’s face from the environment yet keeping it within the camera’s field of view. This innovative feature, coupled with a set of augmented reality effects that can be activated during video calls, enhances the capabilities of any video conferencing application, making virtual meetings more engaging and dynamic.

Apple macOS Sonoma

Furthermore, macOS Sonoma includes updates to the Apple Safari web browser. Web apps will now function like regular macOS apps, complete with notification support and the ability to be pinned to the taskbar for easy access. 

The introduction of profiles allows users to store cookies, browsing history, and tab groups separately based on their work or personal profiles. Enhanced privacy features are also integrated, offering users reliable protection against surveillance through private browsing windows. Additionally, Apple has simplified the secure exchange of keys and passwords through iCloud Keychain, ensuring seamless and safe access to sensitive information.

Notably, macOS Sonoma will incorporate some of the updates from iOS 17, further aligning the desktop and mobile experiences. Among the shared updates are improvements to auto-correction, the ability to call upon Siri without uttering the phrase “Hey,” faster form filling in PDF files, and enhanced sticker functionality. These cross-platform enhancements contribute to a cohesive ecosystem that seamlessly integrates Apple devices and offers a unified user experience.

As Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation, macOS Sonoma represents another significant step forward in the evolution of desktop computing. While the update will be available for developers in the coming days and for the general public in the following weeks, a wide release is expected later this year.

Apple Unveils Powerful M2 Ultra Chip for Mac Pro and Mac Studio at WWDC 2023

Apple M2 Ultra

At the WWDC 2023, Apple made an exciting announcement for professional users by introducing the new M2 Ultra chip. This advanced chip has been specifically developed for workstations, Mac Pro and Mac Studio, targeting the needs of power users and creative professionals.

The Apple M2 Ultra chip follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the M1 Ultra, by utilizing a similar architecture. It combines two M2 Max chips through cutting-edge technology called “Ultra Fusion.” This innovative approach employs a silicon interposer, establishing a “die-to-die interconnect” that seamlessly integrates over 10,000 signals. This results in an impressive low-latency processor-to-processor bandwidth of over 2.5TB/s.

Apple M2 Ultra features

With a design that mirrors the M2 Max chip, the Apple M2 Ultra chip boasts 24 CPU cores and up to 76 GPU cores. The chip is manufactured using TSMC’s second-generation 5nm process and incorporates a staggering 134 billion transistors. The M2 Ultra chip offers a 20% increase in CPU performance and a 30% boost in GPU performance compared to its predecessor, the M1 Ultra.

Amidst the era of artificial intelligence, Apple recognizes the importance of efficient AI processing. The M2 Ultra chip is equipped with a powerful 32-core neural engine to meet these demands. This enhanced neural engine significantly accelerates AI calculations by 40% compared to the M1 Ultra chip.

Furthermore, the M2 Ultra chip impresses with its expanded memory capabilities. It supports up to 192GB of unified memory, a 50% increase compared to the M1 Ultra chip. This significant memory capacity will undoubtedly empower professionals to tackle resource-intensive tasks and easily handle complex workflows.

Apple Unveils Vision Pro: A Revolutionary AR Headset

Apple Vision Pro

After years of speculation and anticipation, Apple finally unveiled its long-rumoured and highly anticipated AR headset at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023. Named “Vision Pro,” this cutting-edge device marks a significant leap forward in spatial computing and augmented reality (AR) technology.

One of the standout features of the Vision Pro is its sleek design, resembling ski goggles. The device sports a curved display made from integrally moulded glass, seamlessly integrated with an aluminium frame. The headband comes in various sizes and features cushioning, breathability, and elasticity for maximum comfort. Furthermore, the headband is simply detachable and replaceable, allowing users to customize the fit and design to their liking.

The Vision Pro, powered by the newly created “visionOS,” lets users create a personalized workspace by showing numerous windows and applications in their physical surroundings. This unique spatial experience makes it a powerful tool for professionals across industries. 

Unlike other AR headsets, the Vision Pro does not have a separate controller. Instead, it introduces an innovative input operation system that can be controlled by the user’s eyes, hands, and voice. Users can navigate apps using their gaze, tap to select items, scroll by moving their wrist, and input text using voice commands. Additionally, the Vision Pro supports peripherals like the Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad, enabling users to work seamlessly, similar to a Mac computer.

Apple Vision Pro spatial computer

Underpinning the Vision Pro’s capabilities is the powerful M2 processor, the same chip found in Apple’s MacBook lineup. This standalone headset doesn’t require a connection to a Mac or other devices to operate, offering greater flexibility and freedom to users. However, this impressive performance comes at the cost of battery life, with Apple stating that the headset lasts for only two hours. To address this, the Vision Pro includes a battery pack that needs to be connected to the headset via a cable, similar to Magic Leap’s AR headset.

The centrepiece of the Vision Pro is its display, featuring two newly developed micro-OLEDs. With a wide colour gamut, HDR support, and 23 million pixels — more than a 4K display — the display delivers exceptional visual quality. Apple has also collaborated with German optics manufacturer Zeiss to incorporate an optical insert, enhancing display performance and tracking accuracy. While specific details about the field of view (FOV) and other display specifications are yet to be revealed, the overall visual experience promises to be immersive and captivating.

To process inputs from the 12 cameras, 5 sensors, and 6 microphones embedded in the Vision Pro, Apple has introduced a new chip called the R1. This chip enables lightning-fast image streaming to the display, happening within 12 milliseconds — eight times faster than the blink of an eye. The result is a seamless experience where the content appears instantly in front of the user, enhancing immersion and interaction.

Apple M2 with Apple R1

Apple has also integrated a unique feature called “EysSight” to facilitate communication while wearing the headset. This system places a display on the front of the device, projecting images around the wearer’s eyes to inform others engaged in face-to-face conversations. This function resembles an evolved version of an eye mask, with eyes drawn on it, ensuring a more natural and engaging social experience.

Furthermore, the Vision Pro can effortlessly switch between AR and VR functions, providing users with the flexibility to explore both modes of reality. By turning a dial similar to the crown on the Apple Watch, users can seamlessly transition between AR and VR experiences, offering a versatile and intuitive user interface.

In terms of security, the Vision Pro introduces a new biometric authentication system called Optic ID. This system analyzes the user’s iris under various LED lights and compares it with encrypted data stored in the device’s Secure Enclave. This mechanism ensures instant unlocking of the Vision Pro while preserving user privacy and security.

The Vision Pro is slated to be available in early 2024, initially in the United States, with a global rollout planned for the second half of the year. Priced at $3,499, it positions itself as a premium device targeting professionals seeking cutting-edge AR capabilities. With its revolutionary features, sleek design, and Apple’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries, the Vision Pro is poised to significantly impact the AR/VR market and pave the way for a new era of spatial computing.

Apple Unveils iPadOS 17: Enhancing Personalization, Productivity, and Multitasking

iPadOS 17

Apple made a significant announcement during the WWDC 2023 conference by unveiling iPadOS 17, the latest operating system specifically designed for iPad devices. Building upon the advancements of iOS 17, this update brings many new features and improvements that enhance the overall iPad experience.

One of the standout features in iPadOS 17 is the introduction of a personalized lock screen, mirroring the functionality found on iPhones. Users can now customize and personalize their lock screen to their liking, adding a touch of personalization to their iPad usage.

Additionally, iPad users can now take advantage of interactive widgets, which can be placed directly on the home screen. This allows easy access to important information and quick interactions with various apps, providing a more dynamic and customizable user experience.

Furthermore, iPadOS 17 introduces the Health app to iPad devices, allowing users to track and monitor their health and fitness data directly from their tablets. This integration aligns with the functionality already available in iOS, allowing users to seamlessly view and analyze their Live Activities data on their iPads.

A noteworthy addition for productivity and convenience is the inclusion of Notes in iPadOS 17, with added support for working with PDF files. This eliminates the need for third-party applications to interact with PDF documents, streamlining the workflow and providing a more cohesive and integrated experience within the operating system.

Apple iPadOS 17

During the conference, Apple also highlighted the updates made to the Stage Manager tool aimed at improving multitasking capabilities on iPads. With these enhancements, users will enjoy greater flexibility in positioning and resizing windows on the desktop, allowing for a more efficient and fluid multitasking experience.

The upcoming update for the iPad brings a host of exciting features inspired by iOS 17. Users can look forward to various new messaging functionalities, such as automatic voice note transcriptions, expanded AirDrop capabilities, and improved autocorrect for text input, making the overall experience much smarter and more convenient.

Apple Introduces iOS 17 at WWDC 2023: Standby Mode, Contact Posters, and More

iOS 17

During the highly anticipated Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple announced the iOS 17, bringing many exciting new features and design changes to enhance the user experience.

One of the notable additions in iOS 17 is the ability to create personalized posters within the Phone app. Users can now utilize notepads, photos, and other elements to design unique posters that can be displayed when making calls. Additionally, voicemail transcriptions can be viewed in real-time, providing users with convenient access to voicemail content directly on their devices. Furthermore, a new FaceTime voicemail feature enables users to record and send short videos as voicemail messages.

The Messages app in iOS 17 receives an upgrade with a new search feature, making it easier than ever to find specific messages within the conversation list. Inline replies with swipe gestures, inline location sharing, and an improved sticker experience further enhance the messaging capabilities.

The new “Check-in” feature in iOS 17 allows users to notify family and friends about their location information when arriving home. This function can also be used to inform others if there is a delay in returning home. With consent, users can share their location with loved ones, making it useful for keeping track of children or ensuring their safety.

Apple has revamped AirDrop with a new addition called NameDrop, which enables users to share phone numbers and email addresses with nearby iPhones. This redesigned part of AirDrop facilitates easier media sharing, and in the rare case that media transfer is interrupted, it can resume through the Internet. The SharePlay API now integrates with AirDrop, providing seamless sharing experiences.

Apple iOS 17

The iOS 17 keyboard receives an autocorrect upgrade, leveraging language models to make more accurate predictions. The keyboard can now learn the meaning of slang words, improving the overall typing experience. These improvements extend to dictation and personalized words as well.

To cater to users’ journaling needs, iOS 17 introduces the “Journal” app, which utilizes on-device machine learning to offer personalized suggestions. It can suggest prompts, display relevant photos, and even provide interactive prompts to guide users’ journaling. The Journal app can be locked for privacy and is end-to-end encrypted, ensuring data security.

A new “standby mode” has been added to iOS 17, allowing users to use their iPhones as a nightstand, similar to an Apple Watch. In standby mode, users can enjoy a full-screen interface with landscape-oriented information, including clocks, photos, widgets, weather forecasts, and home controls. Standby mode supports Live Activities with Siri integration, providing a versatile and immersive experience.

In terms of Siri enhancements, users no longer need to say “Hey” before making a request, simplifying the voice command process. Additionally, Apple has introduced offline maps, enabling users to access maps even without an internet connection.

iOS 17 includes a range of other features and improvements across various apps. Safari enhances privacy by protecting private browsing from trackers, and the Health app introduces new mental health features and improved viewing distance settings to reduce eye strain. Maps now support offline navigation and provide information on hiking trails and electric vehicle charging stations. AirTag sharing, collaborative playlists in Apple Music, improved AirPods features, and updates to the Home app are also part of the iOS 17 update.

Apple continues its commitment to accessibility with iOS 17, introducing Assistive Access, Live Speech, Personal Voice, and Point to Speak features to assist users with cognitive disabilities, speech difficulties, and visual impairments.

Privacy remains a top priority for Apple, as iOS 17 extends safety measures beyond the Messages app to other communication features like AirDrop, Contact Posters, and FaceTime messages. The addition of a Sensitive Content Warning feature allows adult users to block unwanted explicit images and videos, with all sensitive content processed on-device for maximum privacy.

Best iOS 17 Features:

10 Best iOS 17 Features You Should Know

iOS 17 introduces a range of additional features and improvements:

  • Safari enhances privacy with Advanced Tracking and Fingerprinting Protection and locking Private Browsing windows when not in use.
  • Password sharing becomes easier and more secure with the ability to share passwords through iCloud Keychain with trusted contacts.
  • AirTag sharing allows up to 5 people to track belongings through Find My, and Apple Music introduces collaborative playlists.
  • AirPlay, with on-device intelligence, learns user preferences, while AirPods gain features like Adaptive Audio and improved call controls.
  • The Home app offers 30 days of activity history for various devices, and the Reminder app automatically categorizes shopping list items.
  • Photos improve the recognition of people, cats, and dogs.
  • Accessibility updates include Assistive Access, Live Speech, Personal Voice, and Point-to-Speak features to assist users with cognitive disabilities, speech difficulties, and visual impairments.

With the release of iOS 17, Apple once again demonstrates its dedication to enhancing user experiences, introducing innovative features, and prioritizing privacy and security. The update is set to provide iPhone users with a more personalized, efficient, and engaging digital environment.

Google Pixel 8 Tensor G3 Chipset Specifications Leaked

Google Tensor

The upcoming release of Google’s Pixel 8 family in 2023 has generated a wave of excitement among tech enthusiasts. Leaked information about the chipset powering these new smartphones, the Tensor G3, has surfaced. While Google doesn’t aim to compete directly with the latest chipsets from Qualcomm and MediaTek, the Tensor G3 promises to bring unique features and enhancements to the Pixel 8 series.

The leak, provided by the reputable source Kamila Wojciechowska from Android Authority, sheds light on the CPU configuration of the Tensor G3. It is reported to comprise nine cores, including a single Cortex-X3 core clocked at 3.00GHz, four Cortex-A715 cores with a default frequency of 2.45GHz, and four Cortex-A510 high-efficiency cores. This arrangement showcases Google’s focus on striking a balance between power and efficiency. The GPU is anticipated to be the Arm Mali-G715 with 10 cores and a frequency of 890MHz, boasting support for ray tracing technology.

Although the leak doesn’t explicitly mention the manufacturing process, it is speculated that Samsung’s 3rd generation 4nm technology will be utilized in creating the Tensor G3. Additionally, the chipset appears to be based on the unannounced Exynos 2300, hinting at a collaboration between Google and Samsung.

One standout feature of the Tensor G3 is its support for AV1 encoding, making it the first smartphone SoC to offer this capability. Moreover, the Multi-Function Codec (MFC) now enables 8K30 video decoding and encoding. This suggests that the Pixel 8’s hardware can handle such resolutions and frame rates during video capture, albeit with considerations for potential overheating and storage consumption issues. The new Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), codenamed ‘Rio,’ is expected to run at 1.10GHz in the Tensor G3, signifying a significant upgrade over its predecessor.

While faster data transfer speeds with UFS 4.0 support can be anticipated, users can also expect notable improvements in areas such as app launch times and overall device responsiveness. However, when compared to its predecessor, the Tensor G3 may not showcase significant advancements in other aspects.

Some may express disappointment that Google has chosen not to incorporate Arm’s latest Cortex-X4 and Cortex-A720 cores in the Tensor G3. However, the final judgment will depend on the real-world performance and usability of the device. By partnering with Samsung for manufacturing, Google hopes to mitigate concerns surrounding heating issues. If successful, the Pixel 8 family can attract users with features beyond pure specifications and establish itself as a leading Android smartphone.

Google Pixel 8 Tensor G3 Specs Leaked

15 Best Cloud Programming Languages You Should Learn in 2023

Best Cloud Programming Languages

Programming language is an important thing to choose, and there are many different kinds of programming language. When people think of choosing a computer language, they probably pick one of the well-known, general-purpose procedural languages taught in schools, such as C, Java, or Python. But these regular suspects are just the tips of the computer language iceberg — if it uses keywords and a structure to communicate information, it’s a language. Here are 10 cloud programming languages to consider.

In this article, we will provide you with a list of the best cloud programming languages that should be considered while you are deciding to learn a new language. These cloud-based languages are very efficient and functional and is quite easy to learn also. The cloud programming languages are basically used for servers and databases.

Top Cloud Programming Languages:

1. SQL Data Language

SQL [Structured Query Language] is the favorite of many programmers. SQL is a special-purpose programming language designed for managing data held in a relational database management system (RDBMS), or for stream processing in a relational data stream management system (RDSMS). It is an easy to learn language and is very useful.

2. XML Data Language

XML [Extensible Markup Language]  is the popular data markup language. It is a quite similar or resembles JavaScript. Many large scale distributed systems are made using XML. XML documents are widespread in the internet.  XML documents are everywhere. Apache Hadoop configuration lives in XML files.

3. R Math Language

The R language is mostly used for creating statistics, graphs and reports. It has a very cool interactive interface and offers a great help to the users. This is a very handy language for big data analytics.

4. Clojure Math Language

Clojure is not just a math language — it’s both a general purpose and a functional language. It just so happens Clojure is popular with data analysts.

5. Haskell Functional Language

Haskell is a functional language that is ideal for distributed computing and also an user friendly cloud programming language. Haskell take-up in the cloud so far is patchy — perhaps Haskell is perceived as being hard to learn.

6. Erlang Functional Language

Erlang was invented by Ericson telecommunication products. This is appropriate for carrier grade functions and it is best for cloud computing. Many cloud based applications are powered by Eriang.

7. Python Procedural Language

Python is a high-level language that was designed to be readable.  It is very easy to learn language and is very interactive.

8. Go procedural Language

Go was created at Google a few years ago when some of Google’s programmers were frustrated with languages such as Stroustrup’s C++. The goggle has made this an extremely user friendly language with tutorials and playgrounds for the users.

9. GFM Domain-Specific Language

GFM [GitHub Flavored Markdown] is a plain text formatting language used to document repos on GitHub. GFM is used by millions of developers, because millions of developers use GitHub.

10. JavaScript

According to a study by Statista, JavaScript is the most popular language to learn. It’s a versatile language that can be used for both front-end and back-end development, making it a valuable skill for cloud computing.

11. TypeScript

TypeScript, a statically typed superset of JavaScript, is on the rise. It offers the flexibility of JavaScript with the added benefit of static typing, making it easier to write and maintain large-scale applications.

12. F#

F# is an open-source, cross-platform language that takes on more of a hybrid position between general and functional languages. It’s gaining popularity due to its versatility and efficiency.

13. Elixir

Elixir is a functional, concurrent, general-purpose programming language that runs on the Erlang virtual machine (BEAM). It’s known for its scalability and maintainability, making it a good choice for cloud computing.

14. PureScript

PureScript is a small, strongly-typed programming language that compiles to JavaScript. It offers type safety and expressive power, making it a good choice for complex applications.

15. Regular Expression Domain-Specific Language

The regex [REGular EXpression] syntax is disturbing to newcomers because it is practically symbolic — instead of keywords, there are single characters. Regex code looks like someone fell asleep on the keyboard. However, regular expressions are a pillar of the Linux world. One of the core principles of the old UNIX OS and its Linux successor is the heavy use of text. Text is used everywhere — for configuration, on the command line, and in protocols. Regular expressions help developers manage that text.

Remember, the best cloud programming language depends on your specific use case, so consider your needs and project requirements before making a choice.