Apple issues statement regarding Error 53, it is a security measure

Some iPhones that have had their displays repaired or replaced by third-party technicians have become non-responsive because of an Error 53, which forces a boot loop on some repaired iPhones rendering them unusable. Here's Apple's clarification.

"We take customer security very seriously and Error 53 is the result of security checks designed to protect our customers. iOS checks that the Touch ID sensor in your iPhone or iPad correctly matches your device's other components. If iOS finds a mismatch, the check fails and Touch ID, including for Apple Pay use, is disabled. This security measure is necessary to protect your device and prevent a fraudulent Touch ID sensor from being used. If a customer encounters Error 53, we encourage them to contact Apple Support."

The problem with Error 53, from a user's point of view, is that it renders the iPhone completely useless (not just TouchID and ApplePay), seeing nothing but the Error 53 alert isn't just puzzling to most users, it doesn't help in any way.

Source: Engadget

Apple could bring more apps and services to Google Android

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Google has always had its software and services available on iOS (not so much on Windows Phone or BlackBerry). Under Satya Nadella, Microsoft has been relentless in making its services and apps available to Android and iOS and now it seems Apple is thinking of putting some of their apps and services on Android.

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2015 was a huge one of for Apple in various areas. The company released its first new major product category with the Apple Watch, it also enjoyed an unprecedented year of product releases as well as an ever expanding focus on operating systems, ecosystems, music services and mobile payments.

What struck me most about Apple in 2015 is that it seems to have shifted from being conservative in its product announcements to being more like the multi-billion-dollar company it actually is. This means taking bigger risks with new product categories, filling-in empty spots between existing product sizes and models plus growing its various ecosystems and services.

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Apple to pay Italy $348 million to settle tax dispute

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