AllYouCanTech

IDC Forecasts Worldwide PC Shipments to Rise in 2025 Despite Tariff Ambiguities

### Global PC Market Expected to Experience Modest Growth Despite Economic Worries

Despite increasing apprehensions regarding U.S. tariffs and a slowing economy, the global PC market is forecasted to achieve modest growth this year, as per fresh projections from IDC. The study suggests that PC shipments are likely to hit 274 million units by 2025, marking a 4.1 percent rise from the prior year. IDC categorizes “traditional PCs” to include desktops, notebooks, and workstations, excluding tablets or x86 servers.

This update emerges in a precarious macroeconomic climate, yet IDC credits the optimistic outlook to a mix of short-term incentives and extended upgrade cycles that are currently counterbalancing the instability.

#### Manufacturers Hasten Shipments Ahead of Deadline

A key aspect affecting the revised forecast is the Trump administration’s temporary 90-day tariff exemption on PCs. This exemption has led manufacturers to speed up shipments to the U.S. in expectation of possibly increased costs in the latter part of the year. IDC observes that this urgency stems from uncertainties regarding future tariffs:

> “The 90-day pause and tariff exemption for personal computers, alongside a significant level of uncertainty about what will follow the 90-day pause, is urging PC manufacturers to capitalize on the moment and dispatch larger-than-expected volumes in the US.”

However, IDC cautions that this current shipment pace is not viable in the long run. Should tariffs be reintroduced and inflation persist in undermining consumer confidence, the market could see a decline as soon as Q3. IDC asserts:

> “Nevertheless, the anticipation of deteriorating macroeconomic conditions worldwide and in the US, characterized by rising price pressures and declining consumer sentiment, will affect the PC market in the latter half of 2025. Still, IDC forecasts strong commercial demand for PCs in 2025 as the Windows 11 transition continues steadily.”

#### Windows 11 Continues to Propel Commercial Upgrades

Focusing on long-term trends, IDC emphasizes that enterprise demand is projected to stay robust. The ongoing shift to Windows 11 is encouraging organizations to upgrade outdated hardware, especially in areas where support for Windows 10 is being phased out. The Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region is expected to see growth extending into Q2 and beyond, with small and medium enterprises joining larger companies in refreshing systems initially deployed during the pandemic.

#### What About the Mac?

Though the report does not specify individual OEMs, it is expected that Apple will soon refresh its Mac range and unveil new macOS AI capabilities at the upcoming WWDC in June. This could bolster the Mac segment as the year advances, provided that new tariffs do not negatively impact the market beforehand.

In conclusion, while the global PC market contends with hurdles from economic uncertainties and possible tariff reimpositions, elements such as the Windows 11 migration and manufacturers’ urgency to ship products are fostering a cautiously optimistic forecast for the upcoming years.

Logic Pro Update Brings Guitar and Piano Stems, Fresh Sound Packs, and Track Recovery Function

### Apple Enhances Logic Pro for Mac and iPad: New Features and Improvements

Apple has launched a new update for Logic Pro, boosting its capabilities for users on both Mac and iPad. This update brings a variety of new features, such as a refined stem splitter, fresh sound packs, and a tool for recovering unsaved tracks.

#### Updated Stem Splitter

One of the key highlights of this update is the enhanced Stem Splitter, now offering superior audio quality. This tool enables users to extract guitar and piano tracks from existing recordings with finer precision. Producers can choose from standard stem variations like acapella, instrumental, or instrumental with vocals using set presets. Moreover, a newly added submix feature allows users to export particular audio segments, facilitating the creation of custom remixes or instrumental pieces by isolating components like drums and bass. It is essential to mention that this functionality is not compatible with Intel Macs or pre-M1 iPads.

#### New Sound Packs

The update also brings a collection of fresh sound packs to elevate music production. The “Dancefloor Rush” sound pack includes over 400 lively loops and energetic drum kits designed for drum-and-bass genres, along with a custom Live Loops grid. Two more sound packs, “Magnetic Imperfections” and “Tosin Abasi,” have been introduced for Mac users. “Magnetic Imperfections” embodies the authentic character of analog tape, whereas the “Tosin Abasi” pack highlights progressive metal guitar tones, complete with boutique amplifiers and distinctive effects.

#### Flashback Capture

Another significant addition is the Flashback Capture feature, which permits users to retrieve performances even if they neglected to press record. This tool allows for the swift recovery of MIDI and audio performances through a key command or a personalized control bar button. By activating Cycle mode, musicians can make multiple improvisational takes, with Flashback Capture automatically organizing each session into a take folder. This functionality is accessible only when Logic Pro is in active play mode.

#### Learn MIDI on iPad

For the first time, the Learn MIDI feature is accessible on iPad, offering users an intuitive method to assign functions to knobs, faders, and buttons on MIDI devices. This feature facilitates hands-on management of plug-ins, instruments, and other automatable parameters within Logic Pro. With real-time visual feedback, users can swiftly create custom assignments and keep their creative momentum.

### Conclusion

The recent update to Logic Pro greatly improves the music production experience for users on both Mac and iPad. With enhanced audio tools, new sound packs, and innovative features like Flashback Capture and Learn MIDI, Apple continues to support musicians and producers in creating high-quality music with ease.

Expecting Improved Capabilities in iOS 19 While Embracing a Minimalist Design

### The Progression of iOS Design: A Plea for Depth and Playfulness in iOS 19

Minimalism has emerged as a foundational trait of contemporary design, impacting everything from architecture to digital interfaces. While many welcome this style, a growing number believe that the present version of iOS, especially with the flat design initiated in iOS 7, has strayed too far into simplicity. As we look forward to iOS 19, there is a shared aspiration for a return to a more captivating and visually enriched interface.

#### The Transition from Skeuomorphism to Flat Design

In iOS’s formative years, skeuomorphic design—where digital components imitate their real-life counterparts—was widespread. This method offered users recognizable visual signals, enhancing technology’s accessibility. Yet, as design trends progressed, Apple transitioned to a flat design concept with iOS 7, focusing on simplicity and minimalism. Although this shift was initially invigorating, many users have since perceived it as lacking in individuality and character.

#### The Argument for a Balanced Method

Critics contend that the current flat design is excessively simple, removing the playful and captivating features that once characterized the iOS experience. The interface’s starkness can appear uninspired, particularly in light of modern devices’ advanced graphics capabilities. Designer Michael Flarup remarks that the future of design should welcome color, dimension, and a dash of whimsy. This viewpoint resonates with the recent overhaul of the Airbnb app, celebrated for its lively and tactile interface.

#### User Feelings and Nostalgia

The yearning for previous iOS iterations, notably iOS 6, showcases a longing for interfaces that seem alive and interactive. Users have indicated that the shift to a more minimalist design has sacrificed enjoyment and uniqueness. Filipe Esposito from Macworld points out that while iOS 7 struck a modern chord, it also made the interface more mundane, losing the allure that marked earlier designs.

#### The Excitement for iOS 19

As we anticipate iOS 19, there is a collective hope among users and designers for a reversion to a more visually abundant experience. The desired design would achieve a harmony between minimalism and innovation, incorporating depth and texture while ensuring usability. This method could revitalize the interface, making it not only practical but also delightful to engage with.

#### Conclusion

The development of iOS design mirrors broader technological trends and user inclinations. While minimalism possesses advantages, a clear desire exists for a more captivating and dynamic interface in iOS 19. By integrating a mixture of playful elements and refined design, Apple has the chance to transform the user experience, rendering it both contemporary and pleasurable. As we await the subsequent version, the dialogue surrounding design persists, encouraging users to express their desires and visions for the future of iOS.

T-Mobile Claims T-Life App’s Built-In Screen Recording Functionality Does Not Present Privacy Threats

### T-Mobile’s T-Life App Update: Default Activation of Screen Recording

T-Mobile is in the process of deploying an update for its T-Life app, which has ignited considerable dialogue among users due to a new feature: screen recording is activated by default. The carrier has validated that this is a deliberate action, but it has also assured users that it does not represent a privacy concern, as individuals have the ability to deactivate this feature if desired.

#### Insights into the Screen Recording Feature

Previously, the T-Life app incorporated a Screen Share functionality, meant to aid support personnel in resolving problems encountered while using the app. However, the most recent version unveils an independent Screen Recording Tool that remains consistently active for both iOS and Android users. This has resulted in discontent among customers, many of whom were oblivious to the fact that their app interactions were being recorded.

Reports indicate that users of the iPhone 16 found a setting termed “Screen recording tool” within their settings menu. Initially, there was uncertainty regarding whether this feature was solely a support mechanism for customer service agents. Nonetheless, the description clarified its intent: “We utilize a tool to record how customers engage with the app to evaluate and enhance your experience. Only T-Mobile will review and assess your information.”

#### T-Mobile’s Official Response

In light of the public outcry, T-Mobile confirmed to CNET that the screen recording functionality is intended to be on by default. A spokesperson stated, “To assist us in providing a smoother experience for customers using T-Life, we are introducing a new tool in the app that will facilitate quick troubleshooting of reported or detected issues. This tool records activities within the app exclusively and does not access or view any personal information. If a customer’s T-Life app currently supports this new functionality, it can be deactivated in the settings under preferences.”

#### User Feedback and Issues

Although T-Mobile’s goals may be to improve user experience, the choice to have screen recording enabled by default has raised considerable apprehensions regarding user consent and privacy. Critics claim that such a feature should always necessitate explicit user opting-in rather than being set to activate automatically. The likelihood of misuse or misinterpretation of this feature has left numerous users feeling uncomfortable about their privacy while utilizing the app.

#### Current Update Status

At present, not every user has access to this update, and it is still uncertain whether the feature is being introduced to specific devices or if it is part of a wider update. Users are encouraged to examine their app settings to see if the screen recording functionality is enabled and to disable it if they wish to prevent their app usage from being recorded.

### Conclusion

T-Mobile’s establishment of a default screen recording feature within the T-Life app has triggered a conversation surrounding user privacy and consent in the contemporary digital landscape. Although the carrier seeks to enhance customer support and app performance, the decision to activate such a feature without explicit user consent remains contentious. Users are urged to remain vigilant and take charge of their app settings to guarantee their privacy preferences are upheld.