Ultimate Guide to Updating Your AirPods: How to Easily Install the Latest Firmware Version 6A321

Apple has recently released a new firmware update for the third-generation AirPods, upgrading them to version 6A321 from the previous 6A317 firmware. This update, like many of Apple’s firmware updates for AirPods, primarily focuses on “bug fixes and other improvements” although specific details about the changes or new features are not typically disclosed by Apple.

To update the firmware of your AirPods, they must be connected to an iOS device. The update process is generally automatic and occurs over-the-air while the AirPods are connected to the iOS device. For successful installation, it’s recommended to put the AirPods in their case, connect them to a power source, and then pair them with an iOS device or Mac. This should initiate the firmware update.

If you want to check the firmware version of your AirPods or AirPods Pro, the process is straightforward. First, connect your AirPods to your iOS device. Then open the Settings app, tap General, and go to About. Here, select AirPods, and you’ll see the firmware version next to the relevant entry.

While Apple doesn’t provide detailed information on the specific enhancements or new features in each firmware update, some past updates have included significant improvements. For instance, a previous update (versions 6A300/6A301) introduced features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Personalized Volume, and press to mute/unmute on calls for various AirPods models, along with improvements to the Automatic Switching experience across Apple devices.

For the latest update, users might expect similar subtle improvements in performance and usability, even if they’re not explicitly listed. As with any firmware update, it’s generally advisable to keep your devices up-to-date to ensure the best performance and access to any new features or bug fixes that have been implemented.

iPhone 16’s Revolutionary Capture Button: Apple’s Latest Innovation in Smartphone Photography

In an evolution of its iconic design, Apple is set to revolutionize its iPhone 16 models with the introduction of a “Capture Button” a concept that was first hinted at in September and later confirmed by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in December. This novel feature builds on Apple’s legacy of integrating innovative technology into its devices, a tradition tracing back to the first iPhone’s groundbreaking touchscreen interface.

The Information has recently unveiled more specifics about the Capture Button. Unlike traditional capacitive buttons, this one will be mechanical, offering a tactile experience. It’s designed to be multifunctional: users can zoom by swiping, focus with a gentle press, and start recording with a firmer push.

Strategically positioned below the Power button on the right side of the iPhone, this placement not only facilitates easy access when the phone is held horizontally but also signifies a slight design shift. The current mmWave antenna on the U.S. models will relocate to accommodate this new feature.

Apple’s decision to add the Capture Button echoes its ongoing commitment to enhancing the iPhone’s capabilities as a camera, particularly for horizontal video recording. This aligns with the trend initiated with the iPhone 4, which substantially upgraded the camera system, making Apple a key player in the mobile photography revolution.

While the iPhone 16’s final design remains under wraps, with potential changes to the button’s function and design, the introduction of the Capture Button marks another milestone in Apple’s journey of technological innovation. It’s a testament to how the company continues to shape and respond to user needs, ever since the first iPhone redefined what a smartphone could be.

Apple Vision Pro Launch: Revolutionary Spatial Computing Experience Arrives February 2

Apple’s Vision Pro headset, a pioneering device in the realm of spatial computing, is set to revolutionize the way users interact with technology. This device, which will be available starting February 2, embodies a blend of high-tech features and user-focused design, reflecting Apple’s commitment to innovation.

The Vision Pro headset is notable for its advanced micro-OLED technology, which enables it to deliver ultra-high-resolution displays. Each display packs 23 million pixels, promising unprecedented visual clarity and detail. This cutting-edge visual experience is complemented by an advanced Spatial Audio system, immersing users in a rich auditory environment.

One of the most groundbreaking features of the Vision Pro is its high-performance eye tracking system. This system employs high-speed cameras and a series of LEDs to create an intuitive, responsive input method based on the user’s eye movements. Furthermore, the headset introduces EyeSight, a feature designed to maintain a sense of connection between the wearer and their surroundings. When someone approaches a Vision Pro user, the headset appears transparent, allowing for eye contact and interaction while still displaying content to the wearer.

Privacy and security are central to the Vision Pro’s design. It includes a new authentication system called Optic ID, which uses iris recognition to unlock the device and authenticate payments with Apple Pay. Importantly, eye tracking data remains private, not being shared with Apple or third-party applications.

Accessibility is also a key aspect of the Vision Pro, with the visionOS operating system incorporating features like VoiceOver, Zoom, and Voice Control. These features allow users to interact with the device using their eyes, hands, voice, or a combination of these inputs, ensuring a wide range of users can comfortably use the device.

Environmentally, the Vision Pro aligns with Apple’s sustainability goals. It incorporates recycled materials in its construction, including rare earth elements and aluminum, and is designed to meet Apple’s standards for energy efficiency.

The Apple Vision Pro is priced at $3,499 in the U.S. for the base model with 256GB of storage. It will be available for pre-order starting January 19. Alongside the headset, Apple offers ZEISS Optical Inserts for both readers and prescription lenses, providing additional customization options for users.

In summary, the Apple Vision Pro represents a significant leap forward in spatial computing, merging high-tech features with a user-centric approach. Its innovative design and features are set to redefine personal computing experiences.

YouTube Picture in Picture on Mac OS

A little-known trick in Safari is to get Youtube content into Picture in Picture (PiP) mode.

When you are watching a YouTube video in the browser, right-click on the video window. Then right click somewhere else on the video again, away from the first menu, and you will get a second menu that allows you to get PiP.

Secondary Menu Showing Picture in Picture Option

One Week with the iPhone X

So I’ve had the iPhone X for around a week now. I wanted a new phone, but I was actually planning on getting the iPhone 8 Plus. Without going into too much detail I didn’t think the iPhone X held significant benefits over the 8 Plus and the 8 is a tried and tested design.

So why did I get the iPhone X? Well, actually, it was because someone I know reserved multiple devices at a local Apple Store and wanted to know if I’d like one of them. So I thought why not!

I ended up with the iPhone X (256GB) Silver model.

The following is my assessment of the device after only a week of use.

Design

The first impressions I had was wow! My prior phone was a iPhone 6 Plus. I’d always found the phone to not be very grippy. The iPhone X is narrower, in fact it has a similar footprint to the iPhone 7. Its better for gripping and there is additional weight to the device which makes it fit and sit more comfortably in the hand. In all, its much more aesthetic from usability perspective.

On the negative side is the glass body and the potentially huge repair cost if dropped. As a result I put the device in an Otterbox Signature Case from the Apple Store and complimented it with a Belkin Invisiglass Film. There are thinner cases, but I wanted good protection. As such, with this case, my iPhone X is the same footprint as the iPhone 8 Plus now. The grip is phenomenal with the case on, and I don’t feel like my device is fragile anymore.

The edge to edge screen is very nice, I certainly don’t miss the ‘chins’ on the old iPhone design in every day use. Do I miss the button? No, not really. In fact after just a week of use I have found myself staring at my iPad waiting for it to just unlock, forgetting I need to put my finger on the button. Sure, Face ID could be improved, but I see this method of unlocking being the way forward for sure.

User Interface

Due to the removal of the home button, there have been changes in the UI for navigating. The tap of the home button to go, well, home has been removed. Now you swipe up from the bottom to get home. This used to invoke the control centre.

From a usability perspective, swiping up is very quick and intuitive. What is does mean is your control centre gesture has now changed to a swipe down from the top right corner. In one handed use this is not a good location for it, especially for left handers.

The widget and spotlight gestures are the same so no comments there.

ApplePay is now invoked by a double tap to the power button and a glance of your face to authenticate. My personal opinion is that its way less user friendly than pulling the device out of your pocket with your finger on the button and paying that way. There is a greater physical interaction required now. Its not a show stopper, just something to be aware of.

Closing applications has been made painful. When you get to the app switcher you are no longer able to just swipe up to close an app. You need to press and old on one of the apps to invoke ‘close mode’ then you can swipe up to close the apps.

Rearranging apps is as easy to do, but getting out of ‘wiggle mode’ isn’t. You now need to hit a ‘done’ button in the top right corner.

Face ID

One of the most contentious technologies in the iPhone X is Face ID. Humans are always resistant to change, and this is a big change. It is also the first generation of the technology and it isn’t without its flaws.

In everyday normal use where I am holding the device to look at it, the unlocks are flawless. I’d say its slower authentication than Touch ID in its current state, however, that time is reduced as there is no need to manipulate the device to get your thumb down to the sensor. So in all, its slightly quicker in my opinion.

I’ve had authentication fail in a number of situations, and its repeatable. If the phone is on a table and I am looking at it, the angle and proximity is pretty important and it tends to fail on me. Similarly, when I am lying in bed, even looking directly at the device it seems to fail. I don’t know why, but I think it maybe something to do with my head sunk into the pillow and this is interfering with its 3D scan of my features. I’ve heard this reported on various podcasts.

The settings can be changed to reduce the security of Face ID so you don’t have to be looking squarely into the device. I have yet to test this.

I do love the way that my notifications appear as I look at the device – its pretty smart!

Battery Life

So far, I have found the battery life to be awesome. Using the phone from 7am – 7pm I usually have 50% left. Apparently the device has fast charge. I use the Anker 6 Port USB Hub, I don’t notice it charging any faster that any other iPhone I have.

I’ve yet to test wireless charging, and I’m going to wait for the official Apple wireless charger that also charges AirPods and the Apple Watch at the same time.

Potential Issues

Having had a scout of the various forums, I have seen a number of issues that appear to be cropping up on the device. How widespread these issue are is not really known at this point in time.

The first is a green line that appears vertically on the screen. This issue has also been seen on Samsung phones and is likely an OLED issue. This issue isn’t apparent from day one and is randomly appearing on devices. It is device independent, in other words there is no certain model that seems to be affected.

Cracking speakers is also being readily reported and I believe mine suffers from this issue. When putting things on speaker phone I think that cracking/distortion is coming from the ear piece speaker. The bottom spears appear to be clear. This maybe solvable by a firmware update.

There is also reports of the display becoming unresponsive in cold weather. Apple has acknowledged this one and it will be a software fix.

Conclusion

In all, I’m happy with the device so far. I also thing I’d have been very happy with the 8 Plus. The UI has changed a little but is very quick to adapt to. Face ID is also pretty solid. Combine that with an awesome screen and great battery life and the iPhone X is a good buy. However, If you are wondering which (8 or X) you should buy, there is very little in it in my opinion. However, one driving factor for me is the inconsistency in features across Apple devices. I want to move to wear this is going to in the future so that all my new devices are using Face ID. The rumour is already starting that iPads will be next and I can see macs also getting this tech. I don’t want my devices to be split between Touch ID and Face ID. I keep my devices for a good few years so this was a push to the future for me.

Have you got an iPhone X? What do you think to it? Let me know in the comments below or on the Apple Resource Facebook page or Twitter.

Apple Releases iOS 10.2

Apple released iOS 10.2 yesterday to the public, making this the second major release of iOS 10 since it launched on 13th September 2016. 

The update is free and will be distributed over the air to those devices capable of supporting it. It can also be downloaded and installed via iTunes. 

TV App

The update introduces some new features. 

These include a new ‘TV’ app (US only at launch) which is Apple’s TV guide and aims to simplify your television experience. Other updates include:

  • Get recommendations for new movies and TV shows in Watch Now. 
  • Access your iTunes purchases and rentals.
  • Use Up Next to see the movies and shows you’re currently watching and pick up where you left off 

Single Sign-On

Apple also released their Single Sign-On feature which allows cable subscribers to sign in once with their cable sign in details and have access to al of the live content across various apps and multiple devices. From launch Singe Sign-On is available for CenturyLink Prism, DirecTV, Dish, GVTC, GTA, Hawaiian Telcom, Hotwire, Metrocast, Service Electric and Sling TV. 

Emoji

Emoji’s also received an update with new emoji’s. Clown Face, Face Palm, Selfie, Fox, Owl, Bacon, Avocado, Croissant, Medals and new Profession’s and many more – in fact there are more than a hundred new emoji’s.

Photos

There were a number of updates to the Photos app, such as improved stabilisation and faster frame rates for Live Photos. There has been an improvement of the recognition of similar faces in the photo album. 

Design

iOS 10.2 also includes some design updates and improvements, namely to the Music app where the Repeat and Shuffle buttons have been revamped and can be easily found by swiping up on the Now Playing screen. There are new wallpapers as well as new ‘Celebrate’ and ‘Send With Love’ Screen Effects in Messages app. 

Bug Fixes

  • Fixes an issue where Memories might generate a memory from photos of screenshots, whiteboards or receipts 
  • Fixes an issue where the camera would stay zoomed in after switching back from the Camera Roll on iPhone 7 Plus 
  • Fixes an issue that caused the Move sheet to persist after filing a Mail message 
  • Addresses an issue with long press activating copy and paste in Mail 
  • Fixes an issue in which the wrong message would be selected after deleting a Mail conversation 
  • Fixes an issue where the braille table could switch unexpectedly with VoiceOver 
  • Fixes an issue where sometimes Siri enhanced voices were unavailable to VoiceOver 
  • Fixes an issue where VoiceOver users could not re-order items in lists 
  • Fixes an issue where Switch Control was sometimes unable to delete Voicemails 
  • Adds notification support for HomeKit accessories including window coverings, occupancy, motion, door/window, smoke, carbon monoxide, and water leak sensors 
  • Adds notification support for HomeKit accessories when software updates are available to HomeKit accessories 
  • Improves Bluetooth performance and connectivity with 3rd party accessories 
  • Fixes an issue that could cause FaceTime participants to appear out of focus 
  • Fixes an issue that could cause FaceTime calls to appear with incorrect aspect ratio and orientation 
  • Fixes an issue that prevented some Visual Voicemail from completing playback 
  • Fixes a Safari Reader issue that could cause articles to open as empty pages 
  • Fixes an issue that could cause Safari to quit unexpectedly after marking an item as read in Reading List

The security contents of iOS 10.2 can be found HERE.

Review: Powerbeats3 Wireless

I got my hands on the Powerbeats3 Wireless headphones that were released today in the UK. I’m an owner of the Powerbeats2 Wireless headphones, having used them for a couple of years and made the upgrade for a couple of reasons.

The main reason for my upgrade was the addition of the new Apple W1 chip that will feature in the new AirPods when Apple finally release them. The W1 boasts advanced power management and a better Bluetooth experience.

I was getting tired of Bluetooth pairing issues I was experiencing with the Powerbeats2. Something I don’t think is a unique issues with those headphones but a Bluetooth issue in general. The W1 chip promises to solve this issue, and also make it easy to switch between different devices. For me, this is really helpful as I have my earphones paired with an iPhone and two iPads. 

Thanks to the advanced power management of the W1 chip the battery life of the headphones has doubled in this new version to 12hrs. I never ran out of charge with version 2, though sometimes when I had forgotten to charge then I did come close. So, 12 hours should be more than enough.

Unboxing

The box was weighty and felt like good quality in my hands, with the headphones in nice presentation. I don’t remember my Powerbeats2 being so well packaged which maybe a result of Apple taking over Beats. 

 Apple Quality Packaging 
Apple Quality Packaging 

The headphones come with a few ear inserts to choose from which hopefully means you can find a size that will fit your ears correctly. 

 One for any ear...
One for any ear…

It also comes with a rubber case to store the headphones in. I will note that this case is no where near as good as the case that came with the Powerbeats2 headphones. That one was of a more rigid construction and has a zip that went most of the way around.

It also comes with a short USB to mini USB charging cable. I have also noticed another shortcoming compared to version 2, the mini USB rubber plug protector has been removed from version 3. This seems a weird omission given that these are sports headphones, and will likely be used in damp, sweaty and potentially dusty and muddy environments.

Pairing

So was the pairing experience really as Apple said it would be? Simple answer, yes!

All I had to do was turn on my Bluetooth and turn on the headphones and then the below screenshots show the simple two dialogues that popped up, that was it.

Sound

The sound has not changed from the Powerbeats2 unit. I’m not going to dive into the audio as it is such a subjective topic. Personally I like the audio on these headphones. It has a good range of sound, from bass to vocals and sound great when listening in a quiet environment. Like any none noise cancelling headphones their sound quality will be affected by external audio noise.

Conclusions

There have obviously been a few changes between the Powerbeats2 and Powerbeats3 some for the better and some, I personally feel are for the worse. The lack of rubber mini USB protector and a flimsy rubber case are the negatives. On the positive though, the W1 chip and its battery and Bluetooth improvements.

The later far outweigh the negatives. An additional 6hrs battery life and easy connection and transfer of connection make this a worthy upgrade and I’d recommend these headphones wholeheartedly. 

Get your Powerbeats3 Wireless now on Amazon.

Why I Won’t be Buying the iPhone 7

No, it isn’t because they removed the headphone jack. 

Actually, its because they’ve made it waterproof. I’ve owned almost every iPhone since they arrived, except iPhone 5, 5S and 6S and every one I’ve owned has only last 18 months or so before I notice a severe degradation of battery life. 

Most recently my iPhone 6 Plus was no longer lasting a full day after about 18 months of use. A quick repair job with a battery and kit from iFixit and my iPhone 6 Plus was as good as new, lasting a day to a day and a half. 

This doesn’t look possible on the iPhone 7 due to seals and adhesives used to make the phone splash/waterproof. I’ll stand corrected when iFixit tear down an iPhone 7 in the next few days. However, I’m going to make a bet that its not user fixable, at least not whilst retaining the waterproofing.

What are your thoughts on iPhone 7? Will you be getting one? 

Why Apple Eliminated the 3.5mm Headphone Jack

It didn’t come as a surprise on the 7th September 2016 when Apple announced that it was removing the 3.5mm headphone jack from the new iPhone 7. It was a long awaited rumor but that hasn’t stopped a widespread internet backlash. 

Not Able to Charge

The main complaint was the inability to charge the phone whilst listening to lightening or 3.5mm headphone jack headphones. Following the announcement this is still a concern for many. Apples Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Phil Schiller doesn’t believe this is an issue and says you can buy the lightening dock that allows you to listen to music whilst charging. 

Looking at the picture below from the Apple Store, this doesn’t solve it Phil, what if I have lightening headphones? That solution puts you in no better position unless you have 3.5mm headphone jack headphones. Not to mention it’s a £39 ($49) solution to something that could surely be solved with a Lightening to 3.5mm headphone jack/lightening charging port combo.

 Apple Lightening Dock
Apple Lightening Dock

Death of the 3.5mm Headphone Jack

Despite these issues, the reasoning for removing the 3.5mm headphone jack itself is a valid one. The 3.5mm headphone jack first came to service with the Sony EFM-117J radio which was released in 1964 and became very popular with the release of the Walkman in 1979. That’s a whopping 52years old! It’s an old single use technology that takes up valuable room in an iPhone enclosure whilst we, as customers, demand better battery life, waterproofing and better speakers. Why sacrifice all those benefits including cost for a port that serves a single function? 

The Future of Audio and Other Connectors

There is a lot of focus on the iPhone 7 and lack of headphone jack, I’m sure others will now follow Apple since they have been brave enough to go out in front. 

An interesting thing to consider is what the Airlines will do in response. Consumers will rapidly adopt wireless headphones and lightening enabled ones. So far there is not lightening to 3.5mm headphone jack adaptor. Will the airlines install lightening ports, go wireless or provide lightening to 3.5mm flight adaptors to avoid customer disappointment?

I don’t think this will be the end to port removal, the lightening connector will be next. With the proliferation of wireless charging and wireless headphones this will be another port that Apple can remove to reduce costs, decrease complexity, increase case space and increase waterproof capabilities.

Apple has always been at the forefront of change, whether that’s removal of the floppy drive or DVD drive, they have always been one or two steps ahead of where we know we want to be. Long may that continue! 

2 iOS Tricks That Will Make You a Pro

You may think you know iOS inside and out, but there are still tricks to be found that will make you a pro. 

Custom Vibrations

Wouldn’t it be useful if you could create custom vibration patterns for a certain contact (calls and text) or for certain alerts so you could identify them without needing to touch your iPhone.

Settings -> Sounds -> 'Sounds and Vibration Patterns' section

Under this section you can enter any of the sections and enter the vibration menu. From there you can select ‘Create New Vibration’ and make vibrations to your hearts content!

Shut off Audio on your Device After a Certain Time

Have you ever been listening to music on your iPhone in bed and fallen asleep only to wake a few hours later with the music still playing? Well there is actually a way to shut off audio after a predetermined period of time not only allowing you to continue with restful sleep but also saving your battery life.

Clock App -> 'When Timer Ends' -> Stop Playing

Do you know any other tricks that others might find useful? How have these tricks worked for you? Post a comment so we know.