Apple commits to minimum 5-year security updates for iPhones

Image: Apple

Apple has confirmed it will provide security updates for iPhones for at least five years, less than the seven years guaranteed by Samsung and Google. This is the first time Apple has committed to a minimum length of software support for iPhones. A new UK regulation requires companies to provide security updates for internet-connected devices for at least five years. This applies to iPhones, and Apple has confirmed they'll support iPhone 15 with security updates for at least five years from its launch in September 2023.

While Samsung and Google currently offer a longer guarantee, Apple has historically provided security updates for iPhones for over five years. So, iPhone users can likely expect to receive security updates for just as long, if not longer, than Samsung and Google devices.

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Samsung strikes first in the smart ring patent battle against Oura

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Samsung isn't waiting for a potential legal fight—it's going on the offensive. The tech giant has filed a preemptive lawsuit against Oura, a leader in the smart ring market, seeking a court declaration that its upcoming Galaxy Ring doesn't infringe on five of Oura's patents.

Samsung accuses Oura of a concerning pattern: suing competitors over features typical to most smart rings, like sensors, batteries, and metric-based scores. The lawsuit cites instances where Oura targeted rivals like Ultrahuman, Circular, and RingConn—sometimes before their products even launched in the US.

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Meta Connect 2024 dates announced

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Mark Zuckerberg announced Meta Connect 2024—a two-day event on September 25-26—via Instagram story. The focus, according to Meta's social media channels, will be on "exploring the future of AI and mixed reality, and sharing progress on building the metaverse."

While details are scarce, Meta's emphasis on AI before mixed reality (XR) seems strategic. Following Google's two-hour AI showcase at I/O 2024, Meta might follow suit, highlighting advancements in its Meta AI and Llama 3 models. This might not excite those solely interested in XR hardware.

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Airbnb partners with ChargePoint to electrify rentals, offering hosts discounts on charging stations

An Airbnb listing with a Kia EV charging out front (Photo: Airbnb)

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rising, and Airbnb is taking steps to ensure its rentals cater to this growing trend. The company has partnered with ChargePoint, an EV infrastructure provider, to offer hosts discounts on charging stations. This move comes as searches using Airbnb's EV charging filter skyrocketed by over 80% year-over-year. The appeal is clear: listings with EV chargers not only get booked for more nights, but they also generate higher income for hosts.

Under the new program, Airbnb hosts in the US will receive significant savings on ChargePoint's EV charging technology. Discounts include up to 36% off on the chargers and an additional US$100 (around CA$137) off on installation costs.

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