AllYouCanTech

Kuo Verifies Touch ID in iPhone Fold; In-Display Option Unlikely

### The Much-Awaited Release of the iPhone Fold

Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone sector has generated considerable excitement, with industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo shedding light on the forthcoming iPhone Fold. Scheduled for launch next year, this gadget is poised to transform the smartphone landscape with its groundbreaking design and capabilities.

#### Design and Specifications

The iPhone Fold is speculated to showcase a 5.5-inch external screen and a larger 7.8-inch internal display when fully opened. This design cleverly combines the features of both an iPhone and an iPad mini, appealing to users who desire flexibility in their devices. The projected price tag for this flagship model is approximately $2,000, reflecting its sophisticated technology and craftsmanship.

Apple has adopted a careful stance in crafting the iPhone Fold, following its “best-not-first” mantra. This policy has permitted Apple to gain insights from the experiences of rivals, notably Samsung, which introduced its initial foldable phone seven years ago. Apple’s postponement is attributed to the ambition to eradicate visible creases in the display, a hurdle that has reportedly been tackled by its display partner, Samsung.

#### Touch ID Integration

A key component of the iPhone Fold’s design is the inclusion of Touch ID. Kuo has suggested that the gadget will employ a side-button Touch ID sensor rather than Face ID. This choice is influenced by the device’s slender profile, anticipated to be around 4.5mm thick when opened. The TrueDepth scanning module necessary for Face ID would surpass this thickness, making it unfeasible for the iPhone Fold.

Despite speculation regarding the potential for an in-display ultrasonic Touch ID sensor, Kuo believes this is improbable. The cost-efficiency of a single Touch ID sensor located on the side button, in contrast to the complexity and expense of installing dual Face ID scanners for both the external and internal displays, reinforces this choice.

#### Camera Features

The iPhone Fold is projected to include dual selfie cameras—one for the external display and another for the internal display—along with two rear cameras that will operate in both folded and unfolded positions. This configuration aims to elevate the photography experience, catering to users who emphasize camera performance in their devices.

#### Conclusion

As Apple gears up to step into the foldable smartphone arena, the iPhone Fold signifies a notable advancement in mobile technology. With its cutting-edge design, strategic Touch ID integration, and enhanced camera capabilities, the iPhone Fold is set to attract the interest of consumers seeking a versatile and high-performance gadget. As the launch timeline nears, additional information is anticipated to surface, reinforcing the iPhone Fold’s position in Apple’s product offerings.

Labor Day Promotions on Apple Items: Reduced Prices on M4 MacBook Air/Pro, iPads, AirPods, Accessories, and Additional Products

### Labor Day Apple Promotions: Enjoy Massive Savings on MacBooks, iPads, and More

Labor Day has become a hallmark of extensive sales and markdowns, and this year is no different, particularly for Apple fans. A wide array of impressive discounts is available throughout Apple’s latest lineup and earlier-generation devices, making it the perfect moment to acquire new tech.

#### Current Offers on Apple Products

This year’s Labor Day promotions have been unfolding for over a week, with numerous offers still up for grabs as the holiday nears. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top deals:

1. **MacBook Savings**:
– **M4 MacBook Pro Variants**: Up to **$300 off** on sought-after configurations.
– 14-inch M4 Max MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB) for **$2,899** (Regular $3,199)
– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB) for **$1,299** (Regular $1,599)
– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB) for **$1,499** (Regular $1,799)
– **M4 MacBook Air**: Now offered at **$200 off**, making it an excellent choice for users seeking performance without awaiting next year’s releases.

2. **iPad Promotions**:
– **M3 iPad Air**: Currently **$150 off** across the board, aligning with the lowest prices recently recorded.
– **M4 iPad Pro**: Significant savings are on offer, alongside exclusive deals for 9to5 readers.

3. **AirPods Discounts**:
– **AirPods 4**: The base model is now only **$1 off** the all-time low price, while the ANC version is also seeing noteworthy markdowns.

4. **iPhone Discounts**:
– With the upcoming iPhone 17 launch, noteworthy discounts on prior models are available. Up to **$720 off** on iPhone 15 Pro Max and notable savings on the iPhone 15 and 16 Pro models can be found.

#### Accessory Deals and More

In addition to the primary product discounts, there are also offers on accessories, HomeKit devices, e-bikes, and power stations, ensuring a thorough shopping experience for tech aficionados.

#### Conclusion

Labor Day offers an outstanding chance for shoppers to capitalize on exceptional discounts on Apple products. Whether you’re aiming to upgrade your MacBook, purchase a new iPad, or obtain the latest AirPods, this is the ideal moment to buy. With markdowns reaching up to $300 off on MacBooks and significant savings on iPads and iPhones, buyers can discover fantastic deals that will extend well past the holiday.

Future Iterations of Apple Vision Pro: Anticipated Advancements and Timeline

There have been numerous distinct speculations regarding Apple’s forthcoming spatial computer. Is Apple focusing on a budget-friendly model, or is it going all in with a second generation Pro version? Today, we will encapsulate all the rumors surrounding the Vision headset.

## Next-gen Vision Pro

In the approaching months, Apple is set to unveil an upgrade for the Apple Vision Pro. Speculations have varied regarding whether it will feature an M4 chip or an M5 chip, although current indications suggest a preference for the forthcoming M5 chip. This will provide a significant performance enhancement over the existing M2 chip.

Reports suggest that Apple is also ‘prototyping’ new head straps aimed at making the headset feel lighter on the wearer’s head, despite the overall headset design remaining largely the same.

Aside from that, it will be a slight refresh. Apple might introduce a variant with an enhanced neural engine compared to a standard M4 or M5 chip.

## Vision Pro: Mac edition

Looking further ahead, Apple is contemplating a more Mac-dependent iteration of the Vision Pro. This headset would cater to users who utilize the Vision Pro for specialized applications, such as surgical overlays and flight simulators. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman:

> Instead, it’s now developing a Vision Pro that connects to a Mac. The distinction between the two concepts is the degree of immersion. The previously shelved device featured transparent lenses; the ongoing project will employ a similar method as the Vision Pro.

The intention is to establish an ultra-low-latency system for streaming a user’s Mac display or linking to high-end enterprise software.

Apple was earlier engaged in creating a variant of augmented reality glasses that would sync with a Mac, and it appears that Apple is attempting to revive that now-shelved concept in the form of a headset.

## Long-rumored Vision Air

Since the launch of the product, rumors about a more affordable Vision Pro have surfaced, possibly even before its initial release. We’ve been hearing about a so-called Vision Air model that promises to reduce both weight and cost for quite some time.

In recent months, there has been an increased amount of information, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman confirms that Apple is, in fact, working on a lighter and less expensive Vision Pro. However, he does mention that tariffs might complicate efforts to achieve price reductions.

Gurman provides limited details on how Apple plans to make it lighter and more affordable, but he does mention that Apple aims to address neck strain issues. Design efforts are expected to be completed ‘next year’, with a release anticipated within the following year. Thus, by 2027, we should finally see a lighter Vision Pro.

## Glasses

Although AR glasses aren’t expected to arrive immediately, Apple CEO Tim Cook is reportedly “hell bent” on outpacing Meta in launching a pair of industry-leading AR glasses.

In the meantime, we are aware that Apple is developing a set of smart glasses. Envision Meta Ray-Bans, but with Apple’s touch. These glasses will be lightweight equipped with cameras, speakers, mics, but without displays – making them ideal for engaging with AI. According to Gurman, such a product is set to debut in 2026.

Hopefully, Siri and Apple Intelligence will be ready by then.

iPhone 17 Air Anticipated to Broaden US Feature Accessibility to More Countries

### The Transition to eSIM: What to Anticipate with the iPhone 17 Series

In merely ten days, Apple is poised to reveal its much-awaited iPhone 17 series, and one feature poised to have a substantial effect is the prospective shift to eSIM technology for mobile connectivity. This transition, which has been confined to U.S. models since the iPhone 14, is anticipated to go global, signifying a remarkable change in how users will access mobile networks.

#### The Existing State of SIM Technology

Since the launch of the iPhone 14, Apple has adopted eSIM technology solely in the United States, while continuing to offer physical SIM trays in most other regions. In China, for example, users have the choice of using two physical SIM cards within a single iPhone. This differentiation has enabled Apple to respond to various regional preferences and regulatory needs.

#### The iPhone 17 and eSIM-Exclusive Models

As speculation intensifies surrounding the iPhone 17, industry experts propose that Apple might implement an eSIM-exclusive design for some or all models, especially the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air. This model is expected to eliminate the physical SIM tray to optimize internal space, consistent with Apple’s ongoing aim to produce more streamlined devices.

Notable analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo and sources from The Information have suggested that the eSIM-exclusive feature will probably be incorporated into the international versions of the iPhone 17 Air. Furthermore, recent insights from MacRumors indicate that Apple is training its retail staff in the European Union to accommodate eSIM-exclusive iPhone models, with training expected to conclude right before the product launch.

#### Consequences of the Change

The move to eSIM technology could enhance the user experience by making it easier to switch carriers and manage several phone numbers. Users will no longer need to physically exchange SIM cards, which can be especially advantageous for frequent travelers and those who prefer handling multiple lines on a single device.

#### Forthcoming Apple Event

Apple’s autumn event is set for September 9, where the company is likely to unveil the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Alongside the new iPhones, the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and AirPods Pro 3 are also expected to be announced.

As the launch date nears, tech enthusiasts and consumers alike are excited to see how these modifications will influence the future of mobile connectivity. 9to5Mac will offer detailed coverage of the event, ensuring that all the latest news is reported in real-time.

Stay tuned for further updates as Apple gears up to transform its smartphone offerings with the iPhone 17 series.

Apple Unveils Innovative AI Chatbot to Support Retail Staff in Selling iPhones

### Apple Enhances AI Chatbot Utilization in Retail Training

Apple has recently made notable advancements to improve its retail practices through the integration of artificial intelligence. Following the launch of an AI chatbot in the Apple Support app, the firm is presently testing a new AI assistant called Asa within its internal training platform, SEED. This initiative aims to equip retail employees with enhanced product knowledge and sales prowess.

#### The Function of Asa in Retail Training

Asa is crafted to aid Apple retail staff by offering instant access to details about Apple products and their benefits. This AI chatbot can respond to a broad array of inquiries, allowing employees to gain a better understanding of different applications for devices such as the iPhone. The feature is currently undergoing testing, with intentions for wider implementation in the SEED app, which is pivotal as a training resource for Apple personnel.

According to images shared by MacRumors analyst Aaron Perris, Asa enables employees to interact with the chatbot at will, posing any queries they might have. This functionality is anticipated to accelerate the learning curve for newer team members, aiding them in achieving product knowledge proficiency more swiftly.

#### Improving Sales Skills

The introduction of Asa aligns with Apple’s continuous efforts to boost customer service and sales effectiveness in its retail locations. By arming employees with a robust AI tool, Apple seeks to ensure they can deliver informed suggestions and assistance to customers. This initiative is particularly timely, as the company readies for the forthcoming launch of the iPhone 17, which is projected to attract considerable consumer attention.

#### Future Potential for AI at Apple

While Asa signifies a significant progression in Apple’s application of AI within its retail setting, the company has not yet rolled out a general-use AI chatbot for public consumption. Current speculations imply that Apple could be developing a version of Google Gemini to enhance future features of Siri, signaling a more extensive plan to integrate AI throughout its product ecosystem.

#### Conclusion

Apple’s deployment of the Asa AI chatbot within its retail training application underscores the company’s dedication to leveraging technology to enhance employee effectiveness and customer service. As the retail landscape continuously transforms, such innovations may be essential in sustaining Apple’s competitive advantage in the marketplace.