Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**Fortnite Makes a Comeback on the App Store: Epic Games’ Ongoing Struggle with Apple**

Epic Games has revealed that its well-known game, Fortnite, is now accessible on the App Store globally, with one key exception: Australia. This update arrives amid a continuing antitrust lawsuit against Apple, which Epic believes will ultimately support their stance regarding App Store charges.

The company has publicly criticized what it calls “junk fees” imposed by Apple, claiming that these costs are harmful to both developers and consumers. In a recent statement, Epic showcased its belief that the legal actions will force Apple to reveal its App Store fee structure, which they contend is unjust and lacks clarity.

In a post on the social media site X, Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, highlighted the importance of this moment in the broader fight against Apple’s App Store regulations. He denounced Apple’s practice of adjusting fees based on location and negotiating in private, hinting that this lawsuit could signify a pivotal change in the battle against what he labels the “Apple Tax.”

Though the news regarding Fortnite’s return to most regions is encouraging, Epic has pointed out that it has not yet re-entered the Australian App Store due to what it claims is Apple’s disregard for a court decision in that area.

As the legal confrontation persists, the result remains unclear, but Epic’s optimism indicates a belief that a shift is imminent for app developers and consumers alike. The company is dedicated to fighting for this cause on a global scale, advocating for enhanced competition in digital marketplaces and payment systems.

### Apple Card Offer: Complimentary AirPods Pro 3 for New Cardholders

Yesterday saw the debut of an exciting offer for new Apple Card holders, providing a complimentary set of AirPods Pro 3 as a sign-up incentive. This offer is being promoted as the most substantial sign-up incentive ever linked to the Apple Card, which is noteworthy for its lack of an annual fee.

#### The AirPods Pro 3

The AirPods Pro 3 represent the newest version of Apple’s widely acclaimed wireless earbuds, recognized for their exceptional sound quality and active noise cancellation capabilities. This offer greatly enhances the appeal for those contemplating an application for the Apple Card, especially given the strong demand for AirPods in the consumer electronics sector.

Nonetheless, potential applicants must be mindful of the particular requirements and conditions associated with this offer. While the promotion is enticing, the process to obtain the free AirPods may not be as simple as it appears.

#### The Redemption Process

To be eligible for the AirPods Pro 3, new cardholders need to make at least ten purchases every month. This stipulation is intended to ensure that users are actively using their Apple Card. However, the redemption procedure has sparked concerns among potential applicants.

Many users have voiced their frustration regarding the complexity of these requirements, especially existing cardholders who feel excluded from the offer. The enthusiasm surrounding the promotion is somewhat subdued by the necessity for meticulous transaction oversight.

#### One Possible Pitfall

A major caveat pointed out by sources like Macworld is the potential for bundled transactions. Users might think reaching ten purchases is straightforward; however, some vendors, including the App Store, can merge multiple purchases into a single transaction. As a result, if several in-app purchases are made within a short period, they could be charged as one transaction, potentially threatening your eligibility for the AirPods.

This bundling issue is not exclusive to Apple; similar occurrences have been noted with other retailers, such as Amazon. Therefore, it is vital for cardholders to closely track their transactions using the Apple Wallet app.

To successfully navigate this promotion, it is wise to exceed the minimum purchase requirement to cover any bundled transactions that might arise.

### Conclusion

The Apple Card’s latest promotion offering free AirPods Pro 3 is certainly attractive, yet it comes with stipulations that necessitate careful consideration. New cardholders should take an active role in managing their purchases to ensure they fulfill the necessary criteria for the bonus. As always, staying informed and alert can help maximize the advantages of such promotions.

Apple has unveiled major improvements in its accessibility features, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to refine tools like VoiceOver, Magnifier, Voice Control, and Accessibility Reader. These enhancements seek to enrich the user experience for those with disabilities while upholding a strong dedication to privacy.

### VoiceOver and Magnifier Upgrades

VoiceOver and Magnifier serve as essential resources for users who are blind or have low vision. The incorporation of AI facilitates more nuanced image descriptions through the Image Explorer function in VoiceOver. Users can now inquire about what their camera viewfinder shows and receive comprehensive answers, boosting their situational awareness. Likewise, the Magnifier app now recognizes voice commands, allowing users to operate the app with phrases such as “zoom in” or “activate flashlight.”

### Natural Language Processing in Voice Control

Historically, Voice Control required users to remember precise commands. The latest AI enhancements enable users to engage using natural language, making navigation more seamless. This adaptability permits users to describe on-screen items in their own expressions, promoting smoother interaction with apps that might not be ideally labeled for accessibility.

### Enhanced Accessibility Reader

The Accessibility Reader has been improved to cater to a broader spectrum of disabilities, offering a more tailored reading experience. It is now capable of processing intricate materials like scientific articles, complete with on-demand summaries to aid users in quickly understanding content. Moreover, built-in translation features enable users to read text in their chosen language without losing format.

### AI-Generated Subtitles for Videos

Apple has rolled out AI-generated subtitles for all videos, encompassing personal recordings and streamed content. This feature is especially advantageous for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as it automatically transcribes spoken dialogue in videos that do not include captions. On-device processing ensures that user privacy is maintained during this transcription.

### Eye Control for Power Wheelchairs

For users of power wheelchairs, Apple has introduced a novel feature that allows control via eye movements with the Vision Pro device. This breakthrough utilizes sophisticated eye-tracking technology, offering a responsive input method for compatible wheelchair systems, thus enhancing the mobility of users with restricted physical movement.

### Additional Accessibility Enhancements

Apple has also revealed several other improvements, including:

– **Vehicle Motion Cues**: Aimed at minimizing motion sickness for Vision Pro users in moving vehicles.
– **Touch Accommodations**: Providing individualized setup choices in iOS and iPadOS.
– **Refined Hearing Aid Integration**: Improvements for Made for iPhone hearing aids for enhanced connectivity.
– **Expanded Text Support**: Offering larger text size options in tvOS for users with low vision.
– **Name Recognition**: Notifications for users who are deaf or hard of hearing when their name is mentioned.
– **Sign Language API**: Enabling the inclusion of human interpreters during FaceTime calls.
– **Game Controller Compatibility**: Facilitating the use of the Sony Access controller with Apple devices for a personalized gaming experience.

### Conclusion

Apple’s commitment to advancing accessibility through AI underscores its dedication to inclusivity. These developments not only enhance the efficacy of current tools but also lay the groundwork for future innovations aimed at empowering users with disabilities. As the company continues to expand these features, the prospects for further accessibility improvements remain encouraging.

### The Legacy of Steve Jobs at NeXT and Its Impact on Apple

In the realm of technology, few personalities are as legendary as Steve Jobs. His path, especially during his tenure at NeXT, has been crucial in molding the future of Apple Inc. This article examines the perspectives shared by Geoffrey Cain, author of “Steve Jobs in Exile: The Untold Story of NeXT and the Remaking of an American Vision,” emphasizing how Jobs’ guidance at NeXT established the foundation for Apple’s resurgence in the enterprise sector.

#### The Formation of NeXT

After his expulsion from Apple in 1985, Steve Jobs established NeXT, a company focused on computer platform development. NeXT sought to produce high-end workstations for the higher education and business sectors. The company’s dedication to cutting-edge technology and design mirrored Jobs’ ambition of creating powerful tools for professionals.

#### Leadership and Innovation

At NeXT, Jobs nurtured a culture of creativity and excellence. He gathered a group of skilled engineers and designers, creating an atmosphere where innovation flourished. This era was characterized by notable technological breakthroughs, such as the creation of the NeXTSTEP operating system, which would later influence macOS.

#### The Foundation for Apple’s Success

The insights gained and technologies crafted during Jobs’ time at NeXT were vital when he returned to Apple in 1997. The NeXTSTEP operating system became the cornerstone for macOS, enabling Apple to update its software offerings and enhance user experience. This change was essential in rejuvenating Apple’s product range and cementing its leadership in the tech landscape.

#### Enterprise Success in 2026

Looking ahead to 2026, the foundation established during Jobs’ NeXT years has resulted in Apple’s remarkable achievements in the enterprise domain. The incorporation of advanced technologies and an emphasis on user-centric design have rendered Apple devices increasingly attractive to businesses. Organizations now depend on Apple products for their reliability, security, and cutting-edge features.

#### Conclusion

Steve Jobs’ period at NeXT was not merely a chapter in his life; it was a transformative era that shaped Apple’s future. Geoffrey Cain’s investigation of this period underscores the significance of leadership, innovation, and vision in propelling technological progress. As Apple continues to prosper in the enterprise sector, Jobs’ legacy at NeXT stands as a testament to the effectiveness of creativity and resolve within the tech industry.

For those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of this critical moment in technology history, Geoffrey Cain’s book provides an exhaustive look at how Steve Jobs’ journey at NeXT influenced his subsequent accomplishments at Apple.

### The iPad Fold: Speculations and Future Outlook

The idea of an iPad Fold has been a subject of conjecture for many years, with various forecasts about its release failing to come to fruition. Recent sources have even dubbed the device as a “quirky experiment,” implying it might never hit the market. Nevertheless, some leaksters, recognized for their trustworthiness, insist that the iPad Fold is still in the works, especially considering the expected iPhone Ultra (or iPhone Fold), which could set the stage for the iPad Fold’s eventual debut.

#### Current iPad Fold Speculations

The specifics of the iPad Fold have been somewhat perplexing. Early reports suggested a MacBook with a flexible keyboard that could change into a sizable display. Over time, the prevailing idea has shifted towards a folding iPad.

When it comes to display dimensions, there has been some uniformity, with estimates ranging from 18 to 20 inches, ultimately aligning around a size of roughly 18.8 inches. However, the launch timeline remains ambiguous. Significantly, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg recently implied that the device may never be released, heightening the uncertainty around its future.

> “This device has been a Ternus priority but may end up being a quirky experiment that doesn’t see the light of day,” stated several insiders.

#### iPhone Ultra Will Bring Us Closer

Recent revelations from leaker Digital Chat Station suggest that the iPad Fold could employ the same folding display technology as the forthcoming iPhone Ultra. This link implies that innovations in the iPhone’s design might directly impact the iPad Fold’s progress.

> “Supply chain feedback, Apple and competing wide folding will also have seamless hinge solutions.”

This advancement isn’t surprising, as Apple aspires for both devices to offer a crease-less display and a strong folding mechanism. While the inclusion of the iPad Fold in Apple’s supply chain does not assure its release, it does imply that the initiative is still ongoing, making its prospective launch seem a tad more plausible.

In summary, although the iPad Fold has encountered numerous obstacles and ambiguities, the continuous advancements in Apple’s product roster, particularly with the iPhone Ultra, indicate that the vision of a folding iPad may still have a shot at becoming a reality.

# UGREEN Nexode Power Bank 20000mAh: The Supreme Charging Solution for Apple Devices

The UGREEN Nexode Power Bank distinguishes itself in the competitive realm of portable chargers with its specialized features designed for Apple enthusiasts. This power bank is compatible with MagSafe, supports Qi2 wireless charging, and is capable of charging a MacBook Pro in less than an hour, making it the perfect travel companion for the summer.

## Essential Features of the UGREEN Nexode Power Bank

### High Capacity and Rapid Charging

Equipped with a sturdy 20,000 mAh battery and an outstanding 145W output, the UGREEN Nexode Power Bank is set to power multiple devices at once. It can charge a MacBook Pro to 38% within just 30 minutes through its C1 port, a revolutionary option for those who are busy or need a quick charge after a lengthy day.

### Wireless Charging Features

The top section of the Nexode offers speedy 15-watt wireless charging with complete Qi2 support. This enables users to effortlessly charge their iPhones or other compatible gadgets without the mess of wires, ideal for travel and desk usage alike.

### Convenient Display

A notable aspect of the UGREEN Nexode is its vibrant display, which delivers live updates on charging speed, active ports, and remaining battery life. This feature significantly improves user interaction, allowing for better management of device charging.

## A Multifunctional 3-in-1 Charging Solution

The UGREEN Nexode Power Bank transcends being just a portable charger; it functions as a desktop charger, MagSafe dock, and travel power solution. It features two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, enabling users to charge numerous devices—like a laptop, iPad, and Kindle—all at the same time. This adaptability makes it an indispensable part of any tech setup, whether at home or while traveling.

### Key Specifications

– **Ultra Fast Charging:** Charge a MacBook Pro to 38% in 30 minutes via the C1 port.
– **15-watt Wireless MagSafe:** Certified Qi2 and fully compatible with MagSafe devices.
– **20,000mAh Battery:** Ample capacity to recharge an iPhone multiple times.
– **Vibrant Display:** Offers real-time information on battery status, charging conditions, and remaining time.
– **Three Outputs:** Two USB-C ports and one USB-A port for concurrent charging of up to three devices.

## Conclusion

The UGREEN Nexode Power Bank 20000mAh is arguably one of the most potent portable batteries in the market, delivering remarkable charging speeds and adaptability. Its MagSafe compatibility, alongside a smart display and considerable capacity, makes it an excellent option for anyone traveling with an iPhone, iPad, and MacBook. Though it may not be the lightest choice available, its capacity to replace several chargers renders it a smart investment for those wishing to simplify their tech essentials this summer.

For additional details or to make a purchase, visit [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4dQDndq) or the [UGREEN website](https://www.ugreen.com/products/35527).

An Indian court has ordered Apple to collaborate with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) in a current antitrust investigation concerning the App Store. The court turned down Apple’s request to halt the proceedings, which has been a source of conflict between the tech giant and the Indian regulatory authority.

The disagreement centers on the CCI’s request for Apple to provide its worldwide financial data, which Apple claims exceeds the jurisdiction of the CCI. Earlier this month, Apple accused the CCI of crossing its judicial limits after the regulatory body issued a demand for the financial information, establishing a final hearing for May 21.

At the heart of the dispute is Apple’s challenge to India’s revised competition legislation, which permits penalties to be calculated based on a company’s global revenue rather than just local profits. Apple is contesting this structure in court, aiming to suspend the CCI’s proceedings while it examines the legality of the law.

The CCI has accused Apple of postponing the investigation and requesting extensions while neglecting to provide the required financial information. In reaction, the Delhi High Court has directed Apple to “fully cooperate” with the CCI’s inquiry but has barred the CCI from making a final determination until the case is reconsidered in court on July 15. The court has also allowed Apple to present certain documents related to its challenge of the antitrust penalty framework.

This ongoing legal struggle underscores the intricacies of global business operations and regulatory adherence, especially as nations like India fortify their competition laws to tackle market dominance by leading tech firms.

The Shortcuts application has consistently been an incredibly robust automation resource for individuals who grasp the significance of these very terms. However, it may now finally transform into a user-friendly tool that realizes its genuine potential for a diverse range of users. Here’s the rationale.

## Focusing on the user experience and retrogressing to the technology

Even prior to Apple’s acquisition of Workflow in 2017 and its subsequent rebranding as Shortcuts in 2018, this app stood out as one of the most remarkable tools ever introduced on iOS. It simplified much of the complexity that rendered macOS’s outstanding Automator daunting to some users, all while maintaining a degree of capability and inter-application connectivity that had always seemed out of reach (or even prohibited) on the iPhone and iPad.

While Apple has consistently enhanced Shortcuts over time, including its recent incorporation of AI models, a large portion of its features and advantages has remained confined to a small group of users.

Once you grasp how Shortcuts operates, especially if you possess (or cultivate) some familiarity with programming, you can create amazing things with it. Just consult Federico Viticci and the MacStories crew, alongside Stephen Robles, who have dedicated years to demonstrating just how far Shortcuts can extend. I couldn’t begin to express the amount I’ve learned from their insights.

Yet, despite the glamorous notion that any average user is just one encouragement away from ascending to the status of a Shortcuts expert, that has historically not been the case for the broader user base of iPhone, iPad, and now Mac. This is frustrating.

However, this does not imply that these less tech-savvy users lack requirements that exceed “convert these photos into a GIF” and “turn off the living room lights when I depart from home.” Indeed, the workflows they might benefit from could be of a nature that even the most proficient Shortcuts users would find difficult to construct.

That’s why a report from Bloomberg today has made me even more enthusiastic for next month’s WWDC. When discussing an impending enhancement to Shortcuts, the report mentioned:

> The version presently in testing allows users to create shortcuts simply by articulating what they wish the shortcuts to accomplish. Currently, users are required to manually construct shortcuts within the app or download them from Apple’s collection.
> In the updated app, users will be greeted with a prompt asking, “What do you want your shortcut to do?” accompanied by a text field to detail the request. The system then automatically generates and installs the shortcut on the device.

This inquiry, “What do you want your shortcut to do?” is fundamental to what Shortcuts was always intended to be: not just an exercise in automation creativity (even though it can indeed be an enjoyable one), but a solution hub for constructing customized connections between applications, files, and information, uniquely suited for every individual iPhone, iPad, and Mac user, irrespective of their technical expertise.

Providing an input field where users can express, in everyday language (even through voice!), the outcome they need, and then having Shortcuts handle the execution to achieve that result, epitomizes one of the most beautiful and sophisticated illustrations of what Steve Jobs famously stated during WWDC 1997: “You’ve got to start with the customer experience and work backwards to the technology.”

In truth, that exemplifies one of the most beautiful and refined representations of what personal computing has always signified.

If Apple successfully implements this, an AI-enhanced Shortcuts application that comprehends what users are attempting to accomplish and converts that into a functioning shortcut, regardless of how intricate it may be beneath the surface, could finally render Shortcuts as beneficial to average users as it has long been to the knowledgeable ones.

And naturally, for users who are already adept with the app, the potential is about to escalate even further, which is equally thrilling.

### Apple iPhone 18 Pro: Anticipated Launch and Release Insights

Apple’s forthcoming flagship iPhone 18 Pro, alongside its associated models, is scheduled for unveiling this fall, adhering to the company’s tradition of yearly launches. This piece provides an overview of the anticipated announcement date, release schedule, and essential details regarding the new series.

#### iPhone 18 Pro Launch Event Anticipated in September

The iPhone stands as Apple’s most critical offering, significantly impacting the company’s earnings. Traditionally, Apple has revealed new iPhone variants in September, and signs indicate this custom will persist into 2026.

Recent unveiling dates for iPhones include:
– **2025**: Tuesday, September 9
– **2024**: Monday, September 9
– **2023**: Tuesday, September 12

Based on this trend, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to be announced in early to mid-September. Nonetheless, this year’s timetable may be affected by Labor Day, occurring on September 7. Typically, Apple arranges its launch for the week after Labor Day, likely on **Monday, September 14**. An earlier announcement on **Wednesday, September 9** is also feasible, as seen in 2022.

This year, an important shift is expected: the foundational iPhone 18 model may not debut until early 2027. Instead, the September collection is anticipated to comprise:
– iPhone 18 Pro
– iPhone 18 Pro Max
– iPhone Ultra
– Possibly iPhone Air 2

#### Anticipated Release Date for iPhone 18 Pro

After the iPhone event, Apple usually adheres to a reliable release routine. New models are generally available for pre-order on the Friday following the announcement, with shipments following the next week.

If the iPhone 18 is introduced on **Monday, September 14**, pre-orders would likely commence on **Friday, September 18**, with shipping expected by **Friday, September 25**. Conversely, if the announcement occurs on **Wednesday, September 9**, pre-orders would initiate on **September 11**, with models expected to arrive by **September 18**.

Recent historical patterns for iPhone introductions include:
– **2025: iPhone 17**
– Announced: Tuesday, September 9
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 12
– Release date: Friday, September 19
– **2024: iPhone 16**
– Announced: Monday, September 9
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 13
– Release date: Friday, September 20
– **2023: iPhone 15**
– Announced: Tuesday, September 12
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 15
– Release date: Friday, September 22

#### Overview of iPhone 18 Pro Release Anticipations

In summary, here’s what to expect regarding the unveiling and release date for the iPhone 18 series:
– **2026: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone Ultra, and potentially iPhone Air 2**
– Announced: Wednesday, September 9 OR Monday, September 14
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 11 OR 18
– Release date: Friday, September 18 OR 25

As the launch date nears, anticipation grows for the new features and improvements expected in the iPhone 18 series. Which new model are you intending to acquire?

### macOS 27 to Exclude Intel Macs: Compatibility Restricted to Apple Silicon Models

macOS 27 is anticipated to be revealed at WWDC in a few weeks, signifying a major shift for Apple as it will be the inaugural macOS version solely for Apple silicon Macs. This change follows Apple’s earlier announcement that macOS Tahoe would be the final iteration compatible with Intel Macs.

#### Models Losing Support

Apple has verified that the following four Intel Mac models will be incompatible with macOS 27:

– MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2019)
– MacBook Pro (13‑inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
– iMac (2020)
– Mac Pro (2019)

These models represent the final Intel variations currently supported by macOS Tahoe and will be unable to install the new software upon the release of macOS 27.

#### Future Compatibility

It is improbable that any additional models will lose support, as macOS 27 is expected to retain compatibility with all Apple silicon models. M1 Macs, in particular, are predicted to receive support for at least a few more years.

An official list of compatible devices from Apple will be published at WWDC, but for the moment, it is confirmed that at least these four Intel models will be excluded from macOS 27.

#### Related Developments

In a related update, there are rumors that iOS 27 will also cease support for four iPhone models this year, reflecting a broader trend in Apple’s move away from Intel architecture.

For users still using Intel Macs, the forthcoming lack of compatibility with macOS 27 may act as an incentive to consider updating their hardware.