iPhone 17's Omitted Feature Showcased, Forbes' Exclusive Chat with Tim Cook, Detailed iPad Mini Specifications
iPhone 17's Omitted Feature Showcased, Forbes' Exclusive Chat with Tim Cook, Detailed iPad Mini Specifications
Looking back at this week's Apple-related news, we have some intriguing developments to share with you. Let's dive into the Apple Loop! You can also check out my weekly Android news digest over on Our Website.
The iPhone 17 Air's Compromises
2025 looks set to introduce two groundbreaking iPhones, diverging from the traditional three-model lineup. Early in the year, expect the mid-range iPhone SE, while the autumn release will see the iPhone Air, opting for a sleek, ultra-thin design. Regrettably, Apple has decided that the camera will be the feature to make way for this slimmed-down look, reducing to a single lens:
"This could prove to be a major selling point, a design element that outshines all other features, even with its single lens, contrasting to the dual cameras of the regular iPhones and triple cameras on the Pro models."
(Our Website).
iPhone SE Camera Upgrades
In 2025, the camera may be the focus for the iPhone SE, although it's taking an entirely different approach. While the single lens remains, the camera's specifications will receive a notable upgrade:
"The rear camera will undergo a significant improvement compared to the 2022 iPhone SE, boosting its megapixel count from 12 to 48. This enhanced camera, combined with Apple's advancements in image processing, should result in enhanced image quality, low light performance, and digital zoom. The selfie camera will likewise receive an upgrade, elevating its pixel count from 7 to 12 megapixels."
(Our Website).
iOS 18.2: Beyond Apple Intelligence
Apple released iOS 18.2 this week, an essential update that includes ChatGPT integration into Apple Intelligence. However, the enhancements don't stop there, as other features like improved Photos, enhanced Voice Memos, and natural language search in apps such as Apple Music and Sudoku puzzles for News+ subscribers are also included:
"While Apple Intelligence takes center stage, iOS 18.2 offers numerous advantages to all compatible iPhones. Including enhancements to Photos, an upgraded Voice Memos feature enabling voiceovers over existing audio, and natural language search integration in popular iPhone apps like Apple Music and Sudoku puzzles in Apple News for News+ subscribers."
(Our Website).
Tim Cook Talks Apple Intelligence
Tim Cook visited the UK this week to discuss the impact of Apple Intelligence on local markets. Our Website's contributor attended an exclusive interview with the Apple CEO, highlighting the exciting potential for future developments:
"With advancements in AI, more features will be added to Apple Intelligence, enhancing its capabilities. AI is adaptable across various aspects of life, transforming and simplifying our daily tasks. In the future, expect features like having an assistant that manages time-consuming tasks, allowing you more time for pursuit of curiosity, artistic endeavors, and personal interests."
(Our Website).
Apple's 5G Modem Strategy
The release of Apple's very first 5G modem is one of the significant changes we can expect in 2025, severing ties with Qualcomm's communications hardware and providing Apple with greater control over its hardware development. The iPhone SE will be the first device to feature this technology, with further applications on the iPad and MacBook models planned for the future:
"Apple's homegrown 5G modem could make its debut in the iPhone SE, offering enhanced customization and control over the device's hardware compared to relying on third-party suppliers, such as Qualcomm. While Apple has yet to commit to using the technology on its major product lines, it intends to start with the iPhone SE and explore further applications for the iPad and MacBook platforms."
(Our Website).
The Upcoming iPad Mini With OLED Display
Unfortunately for those eagerly awaiting an upgrade to the iPad Mini, Apple may not be as swift with its refresh rate. However, Omdia projects that the iPad Mini will receive an OLED display in 2026 or 2027, followed by the iPad Air in 2027-28:
"The OLED screen refresh rate on the iPad Mini may not be up to par with the latest iPad models, but Omdia's 10-year OLED display adoption forecast indicates that the iPad Mini will get the technology in 2026 or 2027, with the iPad Air following suit in 2027-28. These devices will boast single-stack 60Hz OLED panels."
(MacRumors).
Honoring the Apple Vision Pro as "Innovation of the Year"
Popular Science recognized the Apple Vision Pro headset as its "Innovation of the Year," citing its significant potential in Apple's overall hardware strategy, thanks to the new iPhone cameras designed for spatial video consumption in AR:
"While earlier AR headsets have entered the market, the Apple Vision Pro stands out for its immense potential within Apple's product ecosystem. The new iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 cameras, with their spatial video capabilities, transport AR experiences to the next level, leading to exciting possibilities for the future of immersive technology in daily life."
(Popsci).
Apple Loop summarizes the week's Apple-themed news every weekend here on Our Website. Don't forget to follow me to stay in the loop for future updates, and don't miss the latest Android news on our sister column, Android Circuit, available on Our Website. Last week's Apple Loop can be found here.
- The iPhone 17 Air, part of Apple's 2025 lineup, will be known for its ultra-thin design, which necessitates a single lens camera.
- In contrast to the iPhone 17 Air, the iPhone SE in 2025 will focus on camera upgrades, increasing the megapixel count for both the rear and selfie cameras.
- Apple's latest operating system update, iOS 18.2, introduces ChatGPT integration to Apple Intelligence and offers various enhancements, such as improved Photos and enhanced Voice Memos.
- The upcoming Apple Vision Pro headset, recognized as "Innovation of the Year," is anticipated to revolutionize AR experiences with its new iPhone cameras designed for spatial video consumption.