Tech
WWDC ’22 – here’s the changes coming to your favourite Apple devices
Apple has just wrapped up its Worldwide Developer Conference in California, unveiling a brand new MacBook Air with the M2 chip, iOS 16 and even its own version of a buy now, pay later scheme to help you purchase all of the latest tech
In what is the iPhone’s most substantial operational revamp since the introduction of the iPhone X users will now be able to select a customised lock screen to suit their day.
While a ‘work’ lock screen might pin emails and turn off social media notifications, a weekend lock screen could actually mute communications from your job, and prioritise different apps.
Apple’s head of software engineering says the redesign allows ‘an incredible set of new personalisation features, making the experience feel incredibly ‘you’.
This release comes just months before Apple is expected to release its iPhone 14, which will have these new features and is rumoured to have an ‘always-on’ display.
In its buy now, pay later offering, the tech giant will allow consumers to take out an interest-free four-month loan on payments made with its Apple Pay service, but unfortunately it’s limited to the U.S. for now.
A redesigned MacBook Air will see a new MagSafe charging port, and a design similar to the current MacBook Pro computers.
Apple has also introduced more customisable watch faces, an enhanced Workout app, sleep stages and an all-new Medications app.
Now sporting a High Definition camera, it will operate through an M2 chip, which is 40 per cent faster than the previous generation.
When it comes to iOS 16, there’s one feature that stands out above the rest.
Users can expect a Messages app that allows the editing or the recall of texts sent impulsively or by mistake.
The dictation service has been revamped, and live text will now work with video, with users able to copy and paste text from paused footage.
In Apple Maps, you will now be able to add multiple stops to a route, while a new “shared photo library” will allow families and groups of people to bundle all pictures taken together in one shared library.
Finally, a new feature called “Safety Check” will help people leaving abusive relationships terminate device access given to other people with just one click.
Amanda Gunn contributed to this report.
Tech
OpenAI releases GPT-5.1 with enhanced conversational features
OpenAI launches GPT-5.1, enhancing ChatGPT with personality controls and improved conversational abilities for paid users
OpenAI launches GPT-5.1, enhancing ChatGPT with personality controls and improved conversational abilities for paid users
– OpenAI launched GPT-5.1 with two models to improve ChatGPT’s conversation and user control.
– The update, initially for paid users, addresses prior complaints and introduces adaptive reasoning and personality presets.
GPT-5.1 Instant is said to be “warmer by default and more conversational,” with early testers noting its playfulness while remaining clear and useful.
The launch follows a backlash from users after GPT-5’s release, who criticized its “colder” tone and the removal of previous models like GPT-4o. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, admitted that discontinuing GPT-4o “was a mistake” and acknowledged the emotional attachment users had to specific models.
Adaptive Reasoning
GPT-5.1 Instant introduces adaptive reasoning, which helps it determine when to “think before responding” to complex questions.
This leads to marked improvements in mathematical and coding tasks. GPT-5.1 Thinking adjusts processing time based on the task, resulting in clearer explanations and improved ease of use for various tasks.
The new version includes six personality presets, allowing users to tailor interactions. OpenAI aims for the model to integrate cognitive and emotional intelligence effectively.
For now, the rollout is for paid users, with free access occurring soon. Both models will be available via API, and legacy models will remain accessible for three months.
Tech
Apple postpones iPhone Air sequel due to poor sales
Apple delays iPhone Air 2 indefinitely after lacklustre sales of first model
Apple delays iPhone Air 2 indefinitely after lacklustre sales of first model
– Apple has postponed the iPhone Air’s launch due to poor sales of the current model.
– Production of the iPhone Air will stop, with Foxconn and Luxshare ceasing manufacturing by November and October respectively.
The decision coincides with a significant reduction in the production of the existing model. Foxconn is expected to cease all manufacturing by the end of November, while Luxshare will stop production by the end of October.
Sales for the iPhone Air have not met Apple’s expectations since its launch in September. Foxconn has limited its production lines for the device, and future orders are projected to decrease significantly. A survey indicated nearly no demand for the iPhone Air, with consumers instead choosing the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models.
Production Challenges
The underperformance of the iPhone Air continues a trend of failed attempts by Apple to add a fourth model to its lineup.
The iPhone mini was previously discontinued after poor sales, followed by the larger Plus models, which faced similar challenges.
Apple had intended to develop a lighter second-generation iPhone Air with improved specifications but may now reconsider its design approach. The company also has plans for a staggered launch of the iPhone 18 lineup set for 2026 and early 2027.
Tech
Tech giants’ $47 billion AI infrastructure deals announced
Tech giants commit $47.7 billion to AI deals as demand for computing power soars and market diverges
Tech giants commit $47.7 billion to AI deals as demand for computing power soars and market diverges
– Wall Street started November mixed as AI deals boosted tech stocks, especially Amazon’s share price after a major agreement.
– OpenAI plans $1.4 trillion investment for computing resources, with Big Tech predicting over $250 billion AI infrastructure spending this year.
Amazon commented on the soaring demand for computing power resulting from rapid AI advancements, aiming for full capacity deployment by the end of 2026.
Microsoft also sealed a $9.7 billion agreement with IREN, highlighting the industry’s insatiable need for cloud capacity.
The collaborations depict Big Tech’s ongoing commitment to AI infrastructure, with significant investments aimed at catering to the escalating demand for computing resources.
Investment Perspective
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman revealed intentions to invest $1.4 trillion to create 30 gigawatts of computing resources.
Major players, including Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta, have adjusted their capital expenditure forecasts for 2025, anticipating AI infrastructure spending to surpass $250 billion this year.
Despite market caution regarding inflated valuations, analysts remain optimistic about growth in the sector. Even amidst fears of an AI bubble, industry leaders assert ongoing investments will continue to bolster market performance through 2026.
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