Apple ends support for older iPhones with iOS 16

Source: Apple

A few older iPhones will no longer be able to update to iOS 16. iPhones introduced in 2016 or earlier will not be getting Apple software updates. These include the iPhone 6S, iPhone SE, and iPhone 7. It's not an unexpected move, given Apple will regularly retire software support for older devices. If you have one of these devices, it doesn't mean you can't use them anymore. It just means you won't get the fancy new features. 

What's more important for deciding to switch is whether you'll lose access to security updates. Right now, Apple still offers security updates to older iPhones like the iPhone 5 and 6. But as CNET pointed out, these updates only address critical vulnerabilities, so you could still be vulnerable to other attacks. Regularly check Apple's Security Updates page to stay on top of the security updates you're getting.

Leaked document finds Apple acknowledging some iPhone 7 and 7 Plus models disabled mics during calls

What’s considered an integral part of making phone calls might be experiencing some issues on a limited number of Apple iPhone 7 and 7 Plus units. MacRumors got its hands on an internal document being distributed to Apple Authorized Service Providers this week that says some users of the aforementioned devices that run iOS 11.3 or later experience greyed-out speaker button during calls. It’s also supposedly preventing them from being heard during phone calls or FaceTime video chats. It doesn’t seem to be a widespread issue but complaints have popped up online on various platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and Apple Support Communities.

If you’re experiencing the issue, schedule an appointment with an Apple Authorized Service Provider or with the Genius Bar. The service providers have been instructed what to look out for with this problem. You might be asked to disconnect or power off any Bluetooth or audio accessories connected to your iPhone. When the speaker button is greyed out during calls, they’ll need to run audio diagnostics. Affected units will show “device couldn’t detect dock” or “accessory not supported” in the diagnostic pane, they can then start repairs on the iPhone. For this particular issue, it seems they’ll even fix phones no longer covered by warranty. But the document didn’t specify if this repair is completely free of charge. And since Apple hasn’t confirmed the issue publicly, some Apple employees might be unaware of the issue. MacRumors suggest you escalate the issue to a senior Apple Care advisor if you can.

Mophie brings wireless charging to the current Apple and Samsung flagships

It’s not the first time Mophie is bringing wireless charging to Apple and Samsung devices. But for those who are using the latest flagships from both brands, then you’re in luck. Mophie just unveiled new charge force cases for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus as well as the Galaxy S8 and S8+. These leather-wrapped cases support everything from Mophie’s wireless charging system to Qi to other wireless charging systems. The iPhone 7 cases are available in black, tan, brown, blue, and (PRODUCT)RED and goes for US$59.95. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S8 case only comes in black and is available for US$49.95.

Aside from that, the brand even released a wireless power bank of sorts. The mini charge force powerstation is a 3,000mAh battery you can stick to the back of the charge force case via magnets. Mophie keeps it sleek and slim so it won’t add that much thickness to your phone. It retails for US$49.95.

Source: Engadget

A red iPhone 7 rumoured to be coming next month

Rumour has it Apple is readying a new color option for the iPhone 7. Japanese blog Macotakara cites a research note from Barclays claiming Apple will be releasing a red version of the iPhone 7. This rumour first surfaced a few months ago from Apple’s supply chain with Macotakara reporting it then. The new color option will supposedly be unveiled at next month’s iPad event. Alongside it, a 128GB version of the iPhone SE will supposedly also be making an appearance.

Source: BGR