Apple Might Remove AirDrop Functionality from EU iPhones Due to Ongoing Legal Conflict

The current legal conflict between Apple and the European Union (EU) has generated considerable apprehension regarding the future of specific functionalities on iPhones sold within the EU, especially AirDrop. This article delves into the ramifications of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the possible outcomes for Apple and its customers in Europe.

### Interoperability Requirements

In a pivotal ruling last year, the EU found it anti-competitive for Apple to limit particular iOS features, including AirDrop and the proximity-pairing feature exclusive to AirPods, to its own products. The EU’s decision seeks to promote a more competitive marketplace by requiring Apple to make these features accessible to third-party entities, contending that such limitations afford Apple an unfair edge.

Although initial negotiations between Apple and the EU aimed at achieving a possible settlement, these discussions have reportedly stalled. As a result, Apple has contested the EU’s decision, claiming that the regulations unjustly target the company and could impede its capacity to innovate and provide high-quality products to consumers in Europe.

### EU iPhones Could Lose AirDrop

Industry analyst John Gruber has pointed out the potential fallout from Apple’s appeal. He posits that if Apple is forced to adhere to the EU’s interoperability mandates, it might opt to withhold new functionalities from iPhones sold in the EU completely. This tactic has already been apparent with features like iPhone Mirroring, which Apple has refrained from introducing in the EU due to concerns about being obligated to offer similar functions to Android devices.

Gruber further suggests that if AirDrop were introduced as a new feature today, it might not reach EU users. The worry extends beyond AirDrop, with the possibility that current features could be eliminated from devices sold in the EU, affecting the overall user experience.

### 9to5Mac’s Take

Apple’s strategy in antitrust conflicts has been marked by staunch opposition, both in the EU and the US. While the chances of Apple withdrawing products like AirPods or the Apple Watch from the EU market seem slim, the possibility of ceasing support for AirDrop and proximity pairing in the region appears quite feasible.

Both Apple and the EU have presented compelling arguments in this ongoing discourse, although the situation has included moments of absurdity from both parties. Many observers feel that the EU’s position may be excessively rigorous, leading to a scenario where Apple chooses to restrict its services in Europe instead of adhering to the DMA.

### Conclusion

As the legal confrontation persists, the fate of features like AirDrop on iPhones sold in the EU is still unclear. The result of Apple’s appeal may have enduring effects on the company’s operations in Europe and the broader competitive environment of the technology sector. As consumers await the resolution of this conflict, the possible loss of functionality accentuates the wider challenges of balancing innovation with regulatory adherence in an increasingly intricate digital marketplace.

How to Utilize iOS Accessibility for Voice Cloning: A Comprehensive Guide

# Investigating Apple’s Personal Voice Functionality in iOS 17

With each iOS iteration, Apple elevates its accessibility tools, giving users alternate methods to engage with their devices. A notable new feature in iOS 17 is Personal Voice, which allows users to craft a voice resembling their own. Now, almost two years post-launch, it’s time to assess the efficacy of this functionality.

## Initiating Personal Voice Setup

Configuring Personal Voice is a simple endeavor, though it does require a commitment of time. Users must allocate at least 15 minutes to verbally express a set of phrases for the iPhone to capture their voice. Here’s how to initiate the process:

1. Go to **Settings > Accessibility > Personal Voice** (located in the Speech category).
2. Select **Create Personal Voice**.

As you proceed, you will be guided through 150 brief phrases encompassing declarations, inquiries, and exclamations. This diversity aids the device in perceiving various inflections and tones. It is advisable to complete all phrases in one session, as taking breaks may interrupt the procedure. After completion, users need to keep the phone locked and connected to a charger for the voice to be processed, which usually extends into the following morning.

## Functionality of Personal Voice

Once configured, verify that the feature is enabled. In the same Speech category, find the **Live Speech** setting and activate it. This allows you to utilize Personal Voice whenever needed.

To turn it on, triple-click the lock button, opening a menu featuring the Live Speech option. From there, you can enter what you wish your phone to articulate in your voice. This accessibility utility overlays the principal iPhone interface, enabling users to engage with their device while in use.

## Experience and User Feedback

The pivotal inquiry persists: does the Personal Voice mirror the user? The feedback is mixed. While the voice captures aspects of the user’s speech, it frequently appears robotic. Users mention that approximately half the time, the intonations and speech tempo may seem unnatural.

Despite these limitations, the voice’s clarity is praiseworthy, ensuring messages are easily comprehended. Nonetheless, many users would appreciate additional options to modify speech pace and tone for a more tailored experience.

## Summary

Although the Personal Voice feature isn’t flawless, it marks a considerable advancement in accessibility innovation. It provides individuals a method to sustain a connection with their voice, particularly in circumstances where it may be lost.

Apple has disclosed intentions for a significant overhaul of Personal Voice in the forthcoming iOS 26, slated to be unveiled on June 9th. Users are prompted to share their insights and experiences regarding this feature, as conversations about its effectiveness and potential enhancements persist.

iPhone 17 Air Anticipated to Include 120Hz Display Lacking ProMotion Technology

### iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air Displays

The forthcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air are sparking excitement over their display innovations. Historically, ProMotion displays, which boast a high refresh rate of up to 120Hz, have been reserved for Pro models. However, recent comments from display expert Ross Young indicate that this year, every iPhone model, including the standard iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air, might feature this technology.

#### Insights from Leakers

Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station (DCS), recognized for reliable leaks previously, has suggested that although the non-Pro models will indeed come with high refresh-rate displays, they will lack two significant ProMotion attributes. This claim corresponds with a different assertion from another source, Fixed focus digital, which highlighted that the displays in the iPhone 17 lineup will be conventional 120Hz screens instead of ProMotion adaptive refresh rate displays.

#### Understanding Display Technologies

120Hz displays provide smoother rendering, particularly advantageous for gaming and scrolling activities. In contrast, ProMotion displays are variable-rate, capable of dynamically adjusting refresh rates to save battery life. They can decrease to as low as 1Hz, which is vital for features like the always-on display available in Pro models.

#### Implications for Apple’s Strategy

9to5Mac’s evaluation suggests that while Young is a trustworthy source, he might have misunderstood the details about the display functions. The distinction between Pro and non-Pro models is essential for Apple, enabling them to retain a premium perception for the Pro series while still providing improved features in the basic models. The lack of an always-on display in the non-Pro variants would further set them apart.

In summary, although the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air are anticipated to have high refresh-rate displays, they will not include the complete functionalities of ProMotion technology, representing a strategic choice by Apple to balance performance and differentiation throughout its product range.

T-Mobile Commemorates ‘Thankivesary’ by Offering Free Beverage and Burger, $5 Film Tickets, and More Promotions

### T-Mobile Tuesdays: Commemorating 9 Years of Giveaways

Since its launch in 2019, T-Mobile Tuesdays has been a favorite among T-Mobile customers, providing a range of giveaways and promotions each week. As the program marks its 9th anniversary, T-Mobile is unveiling exclusive ‘thankiversary’ offers to show appreciation for its devoted customers.

#### Anniversary Deals

In celebration of this significant milestone, T-Mobile has rolled out a collection of appealing deals featuring complimentary food, fuel savings, and budget-friendly movie tickets. Here’s an overview of the ongoing promotions:

– **Complimentary Food Deals:**
– Savor a **free large Slurpee® drink** at 7-Eleven.
– Claim a **free Whopper® Jr.** with any $1 purchase at Burger King.
– Enjoy a **buy one, get one free (BOGO)** deal on 10-piece wings at Wingstop.
– Treat yourself to a **BOGO baked good** at Cinnabon.

– **Fuel Savings:**
– T-Mobile customers can receive **$0.25 off per gallon** of Shell gas, valid for up to 20 gallons via the Fuel Rewards® program.

– **Movie Ticket Offers:**
– Purchase **$5 movie tickets** to catch the upcoming **John Wick** spinoff, **Ballerina**.
– On June 24, an additional **$5 movie ticket** will be available for the eagerly anticipated release of **F1 The Movie**, offered through Atom Tickets.

#### Prize Drawing

Beyond these promotions, T-Mobile is facilitating a complimentary prize drawing in which participants can win thrilling rewards, such as **$90,000 in cash**, an **all-electric Honda Prelude SUV**, and a **year of free concerts**.

#### How to Access Promotions

T-Mobile customers can conveniently explore all the information and engage in these promotions via the T-Mobile and Metro apps. With over **1.2 billion items** distributed throughout the 9-year journey of T-Mobile Tuesdays, this initiative continues to strengthen customer loyalty and satisfaction.

As T-Mobile commemorates this achievement, customers are urged to capitalize on these exceptional deals and relish the perks of being a member of the T-Mobile family.