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RCS Support Coming to Popular MVNOs with iOS 18.4

RCS on iOS is finally becoming more widespread as the launch of iOS 18.4 brings messaging standard Rich Communication Services to more iPhones, particularly those operating on popular MVNOs like Mint Mobile and Google Fi. These carriers piggybacking on T-Mobile's network will now offer RCS support to their customers. The rollout of iOS 18.4 has been a long time coming for iPhone users who wanted features like read receipts and higher resolution video files that are available in RCS.

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Google Fi Users Finally Get RCS on iPhone - Here's How to Check if It's Activated Δ1.90

With the new iOS 18.4 beta, Google Fi customers can now exchange RCS-based texts with Android users. Released on Monday, the second public beta of the new OS brings RCS (Rich Communications Service) not only to Google Fi but to MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) that use T-Mobile's network. Before then, iPhone and Android users could exchange texts only through SMS or MMS, which limited the type of content you could add.

The Future of Tech Integration: IPhones Will Seamlessly Access Visual Intelligence with iOS 18.4. Δ1.72

Apple's latest iOS 18.4 developer beta adds the Visual Intelligence feature, the company's Google Lens-like tool, to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, allowing users to access it from the Action Button or Control Center. This new feature was first introduced as a Camera Control button for the iPhone 16 lineup but will now be available on other models through alternative means. The official rollout of iOS 18.4 is expected in April, which may bring Visual Intelligence to all compatible iPhones.

Honor Seals Deal with Big Three, New Ai-Filled Strategy Unveiled Δ1.71

Honor has unveiled a new strategic realignment as it enters the age of AI, introducing highly useful enhancements for its Magic7 Pro camera system and other features. The company's Alpha Plan also includes interoperability with Apple's iOS for data sharing and the industry's first all-ecosystem file sharing technology. Honor's AI Deepfake Detection will be rolled out globally to Honor phones starting in April, while AI Upscale will restore old portrait photos and become available soon on the international release of its Snapdragon 8 Elite flagship.

Iphone 16e Goes Free: How to Score a New Phone with No Cost. Δ1.70

The iPhone 16e, Apple's latest entry-level model, is now available for free to new customers who sign up for a Visible+ plan and switch to the carrier's services. The phone features a refreshed design, improved cameras, and increased storage capacity compared to its predecessor. This offer is only available through March 14, 2025, or while supplies last.

MWC 2025 — All the B2B News and Announcements From Mobile World Congress Day One Δ1.70

Nokia announces new partnerships for AI-RAN development, teaming up with Nvidia, Softbank and T-Mobile, while PwC research indicates that the telecoms industry is likely to bloom after recent years of growth and increasing demand for 5G services. Microsoft releases a Microsoft Fabric telecoms-focused data model to unify data sources and streamline telco workloads. Vodafone and IBM join forces to enhance mobile phone quantum-safe cryptography using IBM Quantum Safe technology. Capgemini research outlines the priorities of B2B telecoms, including simplified buying processes, customization over cost, and creating and orchestrating an ecosystem.

Technical Issues Resolved Across Whatsapp and Other Meta Apps Δ1.70

WhatsApp's recent technical issue, reported by thousands of users, has been resolved, according to a spokesperson for the messaging service. The outage impacted users' ability to send messages, with some also experiencing issues with Facebook and Facebook Messenger. Meta's user base is massive, making any glitches feel like they affect millions worldwide.

Global eSIM Shipment Volume Surpasses Half a Billion Units as Demand Keeps on Growing Δ1.70

The global eSIM market has experienced significant growth, with shipments reaching 503 million units in 2024, representing a 35% year-on-year increase. This surge in demand is attributed to the increasing adoption of eSIMs for international travel, resulting in a 56% rise in eSIM profile downloads. The improved economic landscape and advancements in smartphone technology have also contributed to the growth of eSIM sales.

Apple Intelligence's True Potential Lies in Third-Party App Integration Δ1.70

Apple Intelligence is slowly upgrading its entire device lineup to adopt its artificial intelligence features under the Apple Intelligence umbrella, with significant progress made in integrating with more third-party apps seamlessly since iOS 18.5 was released in beta testing. The company's focus on third-party integrations highlights its commitment to expanding the capabilities of Apple Intelligence beyond simple entry-level features. As these tools become more accessible and powerful, users can unlock new creative possibilities within their favorite apps.

Syncing With Music Streaming Services Just Got Better Δ1.70

Shazam has introduced a useful update that enhances its integration with Spotify and Apple Music by allowing users to automatically add identified songs to a dedicated playlist titled 'My Shazam Tracks.' This feature, available in Shazam version 18.9, enables songs recognized through various methods, including Siri and the Control Center, to sync directly to users' music accounts. The update reflects Shazam's evolution beyond mere song recognition, streamlining the listening experience for users of major streaming platforms.

Apple Delays AI-Infused Siri Upgrade to Improve Features Δ1.70

Apple has delayed the rollout of its more personalized Siri with access to apps due to complexities in delivering features that were initially promised for release alongside iOS 18.4. The delay allows Apple to refine its approach and deliver a better user experience. This move may also reflect a cautionary stance on AI development, emphasizing transparency and setting realistic expectations.

IPhone 15 Pro Users Just Got a Major AI Upgrade with Visual Intelligence Δ1.70

iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users will now have access to Visual Intelligence, an AI feature previously exclusive to the iPhone 16, through the latest iOS 18.4 developer beta. This tool enhances user interaction by allowing them to conduct web searches and seek information about objects viewed through their camera, thereby enriching the overall smartphone experience. The integration of Visual Intelligence into older models signifies Apple's commitment to extending advanced features to a broader user base.

Threads Rival to Twitter: Meta's Text-Based Social Platform All Your Questions Answered Δ1.69

Threads is Meta's text-based Twitter rival connected to your Instagram account. The platform has gained significant traction, with over 275 million monthly active users, and offers a unique experience by leveraging your existing Instagram network. Threads has a more limited feature set compared to Twitter, but its focus on simplicity and ease of use may appeal to users looking for an alternative.

How Apple's C1 Modem Came to Be Δ1.69

Apple has introduced its first in-house C1 modem with the launch of the iPhone 16e, marking a pivotal shift towards modem independence from Qualcomm. The development follows years of challenges after acquiring Intel's modem division, which provided Apple with essential patents and engineering talent but initially resulted in performance setbacks. With the C1 modem's emphasis on power efficiency, Apple aims to enhance the user experience across its devices while gradually reducing reliance on Qualcomm's technology.

AI-Generated Review Summaries Hit Apple's App Store with iOS 18.4 Δ1.69

Apple is introducing AI-generated review summaries to its app store with iOS 18.4, generating brief paragraphs from user reviews using large language models to "compile highlights and key information." The summaries are refreshed weekly as new reviews are added, initially available in the US App Store for English-language apps and games with sufficient reviews. This feature aims to provide users with a concise overview of app ratings and sentiments.

RPCS3 Emulator RPCS3 for Android Enters Alpha Phase. Δ1.69

The development of an alpha version for Android is a significant milestone for the RPCS3 team, which had previously announced that the mobile port would not be released anytime soon. The growing popularity of game console emulation on mobile devices and the increasing accessibility of emulators on platforms like iOS have likely contributed to this change in stance. However, it's essential to note that this alpha version is still in its early stages and may not provide a proper PS3 emulation experience.

The Iphone 16e Doesn’t Have Magsafe, but Apparently Apple Thinks You Didn't Want It Anyway Δ1.69

The new iPhone 16e misses out on MagSafe, a feature that has been standard on all numbered iPhones since 2020's iPhone 12 series. According to a statement from unnamed Apple representatives, most people in the 16e's target audience exclusively charge their phones by plugging them into a charging cable. This claim has sparked debate about what consumers actually want from their iPhones.

Tesla Bringing Crucial Child Safety Feature to More Models Δ1.69

Tesla has begun rolling out an update to the Model Y that activates cabin radar, a technology that will soon be available in other models to facilitate child presence detection. This feature is designed to prevent tragic incidents of children being left unattended in vehicles, allowing the car to alert owners and even contact emergency services when a child is detected. With additional models like the Model 3 and Cybertruck set to receive this life-saving capability, Tesla is enhancing passenger safety by also improving airbag deployment via size classification.

The Hunt for the Next Twitter: All the News About Alternative Social Media Platforms Δ1.69

The landscape of social media continues to evolve as several platforms vie to become the next dominant microblogging service in the wake of Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter, now known as X. While Threads has emerged as a leading contender with substantial user growth and a commitment to interoperability, platforms like Bluesky and Mastodon also demonstrate resilience and unique approaches to social networking. Despite these alternatives gaining traction, X remains a significant player, still attracting users and companies for their initial announcements and discussions.

Android Flagships to Challenge Iphone 17 Series in September Δ1.69

Several Chinese brands are reportedly moving their flagship phone launches to September, potentially featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 and Dimensity 9500 chipsets. This shift could set up a direct showdown with the iPhone 17 series. Many Chinese companies typically launch their flagship phones in the last quarter of the year.

Google Messages Uses AI to Detect Scam Texts and Simplifies Reporting Δ1.68

Google Messages is rolling out an AI feature designed to assist Android users in identifying and managing text message scams effectively. This new scam detection tool evaluates SMS, MMS, and RCS messages in real time, issuing alerts for suspicious patterns while preserving user privacy by processing data on-device. Additionally, the update includes features like live location sharing and enhancements for Pixel devices, aiming to improve overall user safety and functionality.

Xiaomi: Software Update Adds New Features to Affordable Smartphone Δ1.68

Xiaomi's Poco F6 is receiving an extensive software update globally, enhancing user experience with improvements to animations and new functionalities. The update, which is being rolled out gradually, allows users to adjust flashlight brightness and offers a new app arrangement option in a 4 x 6 grid. User feedback indicates that the update significantly enhances the smartphone’s performance, particularly in terms of smoothness and responsiveness.

Uk Consumers Show Interest in E-Sim, but Awareness Remains Low Δ1.68

A new survey conducted by BICS has found that while over half of UK consumers prefer to use an eSIM to avoid roaming charges, only 18% have actually used the technology. However, when made aware of its benefits for international travel, more than half (56%) said they would consider using an eSIM. The low awareness of eSIMs among UK consumers is likely to remain a challenge for non-traditional providers looking to capitalize on this trend.

AMD VP Teases RDNA 4 Compatibility with ROCm, but Doesn't Reveal Official Launch Date Δ1.68

AMD's Vice President of AI Software has hinted at the potential for RDNA 4 GPUs to support the ROCm software stack, although this feature will not be available at launch. Developers have expressed disappointment over the lack of immediate ROCm support, as it is crucial for high-performance computing and AI applications. Despite the initial absence of support, the ongoing developments suggest that ROCm compatibility may be introduced shortly after the GPUs' release.

Instagram Launches KAYALI, Twitter Competitor Threads, Amid Growing Beauty Industry Trends Δ1.68

Threads has already registered over 70 million accounts and allows users to share custom feeds, which can be pinned to their homepage by others. Instagram is now rolling out ads in the app, with a limited test of brands in the US and Japan, and is also introducing scheduled posts, which will let users plan up to 75 days in advance. Threads has also announced its intention to label content generated by AI as "clearly produced" and provide context about who is sharing such content.

Apple’s M4 MacBook Air Refresh May Be Imminent, with iPads Likely to Follow Δ1.68

The Apple M4 MacBook Air is expected to bring modest performance improvements over the M3 processor, along with a new webcam and support for up to three displays simultaneously. The upcoming iPad refreshes are also in the works, with indications of new processors and features like Apple Intelligence on the 10.9-inch model. However, no release dates have been confirmed yet.