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Apple expands availability of Vision Pro across multiple countries
Big Tech

Apple announced that its Vision Pro device will be available for pre-order in new countries and regions starting June 13, with availability beginning June 28. Customers in China mainland, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore can pre-order on June 13 at 6 p.m. PT. For Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, pre-orders start on June 28 at 5 a.m. PT with availability from July 12.


Apple unveils new AI-powered system integrated into upcoming OS releases
Big Tech

Apple today introduced Apple Intelligence, a personal intelligence system for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This new system combines generative models with personal context to deliver relevant and useful intelligence. Integrated into iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, Apple Intelligence utilizes Apple silicon to understand and create language and images, perform actions across apps, and simplify everyday tasks.


Apple announces new features for upcoming AirPod software update
Big Tech

This fall, AirPods software updates will transform the way users respond to Siri, take calls with friends and loved ones, and immerse themselves in their favorite games. Delivering a seamless, hands-free experience, Siri Interactions allow AirPods Pro users to privately respond to Siri with a simple head nod yes or shake no. For even clearer call quality, Voice Isolation comes to AirPods Pro, helping ensure the caller’s voice is heard in loud or windy environments. AirPods updates also significantly reduce audio latency while gaming and add Personalized Spatial Audio for even...


Apple unveils Xcode 16 and other developer tools at WWDC24
Big Tech

Apple has introduced a comprehensive suite of new tools and resources aimed at enhancing the capabilities of developers across its platforms. The latest release, Xcode 16, includes features such as Swift Assist and predictive code completion to streamline the development process.


ITIF proposes national council to restore US leadership in advanced industries
Big Tech

The Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) has released a report urging the next U.S. administration to adopt a comprehensive techno-economic policy agenda aimed at restoring the nation's global leadership in advanced industries, amid growing competition from China.


Apple announces new privacy features across its platforms
Big Tech

Apple today announced new updates across its platforms designed to empower users and maintain control over their data. The company introduced Private Cloud Compute, which extends iPhone’s security protections to the cloud, ensuring that user data is used only for specific requests and never stored or accessible by Apple.


Apple previews macOS Sequoia with new productivity features
Big Tech

CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA — Apple today previewed macOS Sequoia, the next version of its desktop operating system, introducing new productivity and intelligence features to Mac. Key additions include iPhone Mirroring, which expands Continuity by enabling full access to and control of iPhone directly from macOS. Safari receives an update with the new Highlights feature for easier information discovery on webpages. The new Passwords app simplifies password management.


Apple previews major updates in iPadOS 18 featuring enhanced AI integration
Big Tech

Apple has unveiled iPadOS 18, a significant update aimed at enhancing the versatility and intelligence of the iPad. The new operating system introduces several features designed for Apple Pencil, including a Calculator app with Math Notes and new handwriting tools in Notes. Users can now customize their Home Screen and Control Center more extensively, while the Photos app receives its most substantial redesign to date.


Apple expands global support initiatives for app developers ahead of WWDC24
Big Tech

Apple is committed to supporting app creators globally and helping them optimize their work for users. Through various online and in-person programs, Apple encourages developers to connect with experts for guidance on their apps and games, exploring the latest Apple tools, technologies, features, and best practices.


Meta's preparations for the 2024 UK general election
Big Tech

In 2024, several countries and regions worldwide are heading to the polls to elect their leaders. Meta has been preparing for this, including the UK General Election on July 4th. Last year, Meta activated a dedicated team to develop a tailored approach to help preserve the integrity of these elections on its platforms.


ACT president backs new legislation supporting innovation partnerships
Big Tech

ACT President Morgan Reed issued a statement following the release of Rep. Haley Stevens' draft Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act.


WhatsApp introduces AI tools and Meta Verified for business enhancement
Big Tech

From answering customer questions to discussing products and finalizing purchases, messaging is a vital tool for businesses. At Conversations, the annual business messaging event, several new product updates were announced to enhance WhatsApp's functionality for both people and businesses.


New titles added to Apple Arcade including "Outlanders 2: Second Nature
Big Tech

Seven new games are joining Apple Arcade’s catalog, which features more than 200 games with no ads or in-app purchases. Today, the service launches four titles: Rabbids: Legends of the Multiverse, Return to Monkey Island+, Tomb of the Mask+, and Fabulous - Wedding Disaster+. On July 3, players can look forward to three additional games: Outlanders 2: Second Nature, Punch Kick Duck+, and Zen Koi Pro+.


Apple reveals winners of 2024 design awards for best apps and games
Big Tech

Apple announced the winners of its 2024 Apple Design Awards, recognizing 14 outstanding apps and games. This year’s winners were selected for their design, technical achievement, and innovation.


Apple announces July schedule for “Friday Night Baseball
Big Tech

Apple and Major League Baseball (MLB) have announced the July schedule for "Friday Night Baseball," a weekly doubleheader available to Apple TV+ subscribers on Fridays throughout the 2024 regular season. Fans in 60 countries and regions can enjoy two marquee matchups over 26 weeks with no local broadcast restrictions.


CCIA opposes New York bill on social media changes for young users
Big Tech

The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) has formally opposed New York State Legislature's proposed bill S. 7694A/A.8148A, citing concerns over the online age verification requirements it entails. The CCIA argues that these requirements would necessitate the collection of sensitive personal information from users and their parents, potentially cutting off access to online communities for many individuals.


Netflix announces new Brazilian content at Rio2C 2024
Big Tech

On June 5, 2024, the main auditorium of Rio2C in Rio de Janeiro hosted a panel where Netflix unveiled several upcoming Brazilian productions. The event began with a rap battle to introduce Nova Cena, a new Brazilian musical reality show.


Apple Books partners with Reese's Book Club for exclusive audiobooks
Big Tech

Apple Books is now the official audiobook home for Reese’s Book Club, a popular book club founded by Reese Witherspoon. The club selects a book each month that features a woman at the center of the story. Apple Books will provide a dedicated page where users can follow new monthly picks, browse previous selections, and explore themed editorial collections curated by Apple and Reese’s Book Club editors. Exclusive pricing promotions will also be available.


Center endorses DEFIANCE Act targeting AI-generated non-consensual images
Big Tech

The Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT) has endorsed the Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits (DEFIANCE) Act, urging Congress to pass the legislation. The bipartisan, bicameral bill aims to clarify the existing Violence Against Women Act's federal civil cause of action for nonconsensual sharing of intimate images to include victims of AI-generated images.


Study finds VR workouts as effective as traditional cardio activities
Big Tech

A new research study has concluded that workouts on the virtual reality fitness platform Supernatural are equivalent to traditional cardio and fitness activities such as running, boxing, and swimming. This finding addresses previous skepticism regarding the effectiveness of VR fitness.