iOS 18 and iPad iOS 18 Public Betas Now Available 

Apple Releases Public Betas: 

• Availability: The first public beta for iOS 18 and iPad iOS 18 is now available. Se betas allow users to experience new features before the official release later this year. It’s recommended to install beta on a secondary device due to potential bugs and instability. 

• Key Features: 

• Enhanced Customization: More options for customizing the Home Screen and Control Center. 

• Redesigned Photos App: A major overhaul of the Photos app for better organization and usability. 

• Emoji Tap backs: Use any emoji as a Tap back in Messages. 

• App Locking: Option to lock apps behind Face ID or Touch ID. 

• Apple Intelligence: A new suite of generative AI features, particularly for iPhone 15 Pro models and newer. 

Home Pod Mini Gets a New Colour 

New Midnight Color: 

• Color Update:  HomePod mini is now available in a new Midnight color, replacing the previous Space Gray. 

• Pricing: Continues to start at $99 in U.S. 

• No Or Changes:  Midnight color is almost identical to Space Gray, so existing owners might not find it worth upgrading for color change alone. 

iPhone 16 Series Just Two Months Away 

Upcoming iPhone 16 Series: 

• Display Changes: Larger displays are expected for the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. 

• New Features: Various rumored features and improvements are anticipated. Full details will be revealed with official announcement. 

Apple Watch Lineup for 2024 

Next-Gen Apple Watches: 

• Models: Expect updates to the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3. 

• Display Sizes: Larger display sizes are rumored for some models. 

• New Features: New health features like sleep apnea detection are anticipated. 

iOS 18 Passwords App 

New Standalone Passwords App: 

• Functionality: A dedicated Passwords app is being introduced, which offers easier access to iCloud Keychain features previously found in the Settings app. 

• Interface: Features a simplified layout for better usability. 

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro 

Earbuds Comparison: 

• Design and Performance: Samsung’s Galaxy Buds3 Pro share several design similarities with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2. 

• Hands-On Review: A comparison video explores design differences, performance, and features to help users choose between m. AirPods Pro are likely preferred by Apple users, while Android users might lean towards Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. 

Summary 

This week’s updates reflect Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance its ecosystem, from significant iOS updates to minor hardware tweaks. With the release of iOS 18 and anticipation surrounding the iPhone 16 and Apple Watch series, Apple is making strides in both software and hardware. Meanwhile, Samsung’s new earbuds offer a compelling alternative to Apple’s offerings, showcasing the competitive landscape in tech gadgets.