Apple Daily | Apple Announces NFC Transaction APIs for iOS 18.1; Spotify Wins EU Pricing Display Approval

【iPhone】

Apple announced that developers will be able to offer NFC transactions in their apps starting with iOS 18.1, using new APIs that utilize the Secure Enclave inside the iPhone. This will enable in-app contactless transactions for various uses like payments, car keys, and IDs. Developers need to request entitlements and meet regulatory and security standards.

Award-winning iPhone camera app Halide updated to version 2.15, introducing "Process Zero," which allows users to take photos without any image processing for a more natural look. The update includes a new image processing pipeline and a dial for different exposure levels in the app's Image Lab.

Spotify received approval from Apple to display pricing information in its iOS app for users in the European Union. This follows a legal struggle with Apple and a ruling that found Apple violated EU antitrust laws. Spotify informs users about pricing but still doesn't provide a direct purchase link to avoid giving Apple a cut of sales.

Apple's iPhone 16 series is expected to debut in September 2024, with rumors suggesting new features such as bigger displays, design changes, improved Siri, new camera technology, battery innovations, and processor upgrades. The exact date is not confirmed, but September 10 has been rumored.

【Mac】

Apple is still working on a larger iMac with over a 30-inch display, although the development stage and potential release schedule remain unknown. Despite previous reports that Apple had no plans for a 27-inch iMac, rumors persist about a larger-screened model in the works.

Apple is developing a tabletop robotic device featuring a large iPad-like display on a robotic arm. This device aims to serve as a smart home command center, videoconferencing machine, and home security tool, leveraging Siri and Apple Intelligence. The launch is targeted for as soon as 2026 or 2027 with a price around $1,000.

Amazon offers the Apple Studio Display at $1,299.99, down from $1,599.00, matching the all-time low price. The discounted models include the standard glass version with a tilt-adjustable stand and other versions with different features like a VESA Mount Adapter and tilt- and height-adjustable stand.

【Apple Watch】

Apple shared a new ad titled "The Relay," focused on athletic accessibility ahead of the 2024 Paralympic Games. The ad showcases disabled athletes using Apple devices to train and compete, emphasizing inclusivity and the universality of competitive sports.

【Others】

Sonos is considering bringing back its previous mobile app version after user complaints about the new app. Discussions within the company suggest offering the old app as an interim solution to ease user frustrations and reduce pressure to fix issues with the new app. CEO Patrick Spence revealed that Sonos will delay two upcoming product launches due to challenges with the new app.