Apple’s new updated iOS 8

With the disruption of the key features of the updated iOS on thousands of iPhone, Apple recently issued a follow-on version of the software in order to put things right and the new updated iOS 8.0.2 is now made available to the consumers.

Apple’s public image has been affected on the discovery that the iPhone 6 Plus can be bent, though it will now take some time to improve upon it. The company has stated that iOS 8.0.2 can fix issues that affected iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus users downloading iOS 8.0.1 as well as includes improvements and fixes bugs originally in iOS 8.0.1.

The company also extended its apology for inconveniencing the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus users who were affected by the bug in iOS 8.0.1. The effect of the bug was overwhelming wherein on downloading iOS 8.0.1, users starting reporting that their iPhones were not capable of connecting to a cellular network in order to make calls. Besides this, the Touch ID fingerprint sensors on certain devices were not working and the people had problems in unlocking their phones.

iOS 8 Compatible with any Version of iPhone 4S

Apple acted quickly by putting a stop to the update of 8.0.1 stating that they were investigating on the issue of the problem with an assurance that 8.0.2 would soon be ready in the next few days and also issued a workaround for those users who had lost cell service or the use of the Touch ID feature.

According to the company, the problem only affected less than 40,000 iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus devices when the latest models had only arrived recently and according to Apple, the first weekend of sales had reached 10 million of the devices which had been made available to consumers two days earlier bringing in a number of new features and fixes.

The iOS 8 is compatible with any version of iPhone 4S or later and the fifth generation iPod Touch and any iPad which has been released from the second generation while some features like Apple Pay seem to be specific to the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus.

Other changes are that the latest software tackles long standing issues with iOS’ notification system, the iCloud services and its tie-ins with Apple’s desktop OS X software.

Aim to Improve `Reliability’ of `Reaching’ Feature

Moreover it also extends into the home and health automation space with a suite of new `Kit’ apps together with developer tools. The company’s goal was to fix the bug which prevented developers in launching HealthKit app for iOS 8, in the app store as well as another bug which prevented users from uploading photos and videos from Safari.

 The update was set with the aim to improve reliability of the reaching feature on the latest iPhone 6 and 6 Plus where the `reaching’ enables the user with the ease of operating the large phone with one hand.

The update was also done to correct issues like the third party keyboards, third party app access to Photo library together with ringtones not being restored from iCloud as well as the issues caused with cellular services.

iOS 8.0.1 has also set to handle the issue which had caused unexpected cellular data usage when the devices of Apple had received text messages and to provide improved support of `Ask to Buy’, for in-app purchases for Family Sharing.

Introduction of QuickType - Improvement on Keyboard

Apple is now offering some more improvement on its own keyboard besides supporting third party keyboards, with the introduction of QuickType in iOS 8 which helps you to learn typing patterns with suggestions when correct by helping to input text in everything from text messages, to websites to notes.

Apple had introduced two types of keyboard related tenpole features in iOS 8, a third party keyboard support and QuickType predictive test. The functions of third party keyboards are the same as the mobile operating system with the replacement of the default system keyboard together with a new one, most of which tend to be similar and available at other platforms.

QuickType is Apple’s predictive text entry wherein the keyboard analyses the text typed suggesting words it believes one would most likely text the next, taking tone into account relaxed phrases and words which would be used in instant messages while emails tend to get more formal languages.

Overlooked Feature of iOS and OS X – Ability to Define Text Shortcuts

Some would prefer the option of predictive text appealing while there are others who would find the same distracting. Doing away with the predictive suggestion bar which is above the default keyboard from view temporarily is easy.

It can be done by tapping anywhere in the bar and drag downward where it collapses into a thinner gray line with a white grab handle. If the user intends to permanently disable QuickType, then the same can be done by a long press on the keyboard selector icon and slide the `predictive’ toggle off. Besides this, one can also make a trip into the iPhone or iPads’ settings app then navigate to Setting, then General, followed by Keyboard and turn off the `predictive’ switch.

To re-enable the same you could turn the switch back on. The ability to define text shortcuts which could be used in inserting longer text content is an overlooked feature of iOS and OS X. For instance one might set easily remembered shortcuts for mobile phone carrier text codes which would enable them to check balance through SMS or configure a quick option to insert email or mailing address to fill web forms.

Tips to Manage and Create Shortcuts

Managing and creating shortcuts could be done by navigating to Setting -> General -> Keyboard -> Shortcuts. Here one will see an alphabetically sorted list of existing shortcuts and adding new shortcut is simple as tapping the `+’ key in the upper right area of the keyboard where the resulting dialog prompts for two items, which is a phrase or shortcut.

 The phrase being the longer piece of text which can be inserted and the shortcut is what is actually typed. For `news@appleinsider.com’, the shortcut `@@@’, has been added. QuickType has popular and familiar functionality which have been available on several other mobile platforms for many yearsthough users of iOS who are not familiar with the feature would prefer that iOS 8 would keep its suggestion to itself.

To hide the suggestion bar of QuickType the user could open any app which launches the iOS keyboard like the Notes app which has been displayed in the screenshots. Once you begin to type, you will see suggested words which begin to pop up on the gray bar above the keyboard.

Apple – OS X Safe from `Bash’

It was revealed that Red Hat security researchers had uncovered a huge exploit in the `Bash’ command shell found in OS X and Linux named `Shellshock’ by security experts wherein the exploit enables hackers to gain access through web connected devices and service with the use of malicious code.

The exploit which was called `as big as Heartbleed’, by Robert Graham, security researcher was referring to a flaw which was discovered earlier this year in the well-known open source software OpenSSL that had affected the internet by 66% .

Apple had informed that Hearbleed had not affected its software or key services and had also released updated for AirPort Extreme as well as Time Capsule assuring users that they would be fixing the Bash exploit issue at the earliest.

Shellshock Enabling Access to Hackers 

Bash being the software in controlling the command prompt on several Unix computers,can be exploited to take total control of the system. Linux is used to everything and the bug could affect Windows, Android and IBM machines.

 According to the Director of Cyber at Warwick University, Professor Tim Watson, he informed MailOnline stating that `the impact could be very severe and it’s not overstating it to say that it’s a more serious bug than Heartbleed’.

He further continued saying that `the primary way this is going to be exploited is through the web; a hacker could use the bug to place malicious things on the website or steal information like banking details.

The bug going by the name Shellshock could also allow potential hackers in gaining accessing to every internet enabled device which could be used in the user’s home with the use of something as a smart lightbulb.The danger with regards to this is that no sooner it gains access to an internet connected device; it could jump onto others which include smart locks which can open locked doors.

Software Update for OS X

Apple has been aware of this recent discovered bash exploit named Shellshock and is striving to work quickly in providing a software update for OS X, which is the operating system running on the Mac. As per Apple spokesperson conveyed to iMore is that the vast majority of OS X users would not be at risk to the recent reported bash exploit.

Bash, is a Unix command shell and language that is included in OS X, has a weakness in enabling unauthorized users to gain control of vulnerable systems, remotely. Systems are safe by default with OS X and are not exposed to remote exploits of bash unless they tend to configure advanced Unix services.

Apple is working on ways to provide a software update for users of advanced Unix services. Most of Linux and Unix based operating systems including OS X, across the globe have been affected by the exploit and millions of computers as well as embedded devices will be needed to be updated at the earliest.

If a user is advanced enough in enabling the types of service that can be exploited by Shellshock then there is a chance of turning those services off temporarily or patch bash using Xcode.For others, they could stay informed with updates to understand that there is no high level risk at this point.

Apple Invites AppleSeed Members for AirDrop Test Fest

Apple in its note has invited the AppleSeed members to take part in a `test fest’ to focus on AirDrop function in OS X 10.10 Yosemite which is likely to be launched soon.

The company has invited several non-developer users to participate in the AirDrop Test Fest to help in fixing issues in the over the air file sharing system. Those who have been invited would have a notice inside the Feedback Assistant application combined with the public beta of the forthcoming OS X Yosemite.

Users invited to participate will be provided with guideline to test the feature and according to the notice, they will need two Macs which would be capable of running Yosemite as well as AirDrop or one Mac running Yosemite while one would be running Mavericks to test the legacy feature. Since the focus is on Mac-to-Mac transfers instead of cross platform, an iOS device is not needed for participation.

Guidance for Specific Testing Feature

Usually Apple has been restricting test fest activities only to internal teams who have been working on upcoming OS X software but has now decided to include AppleSeed developers in the preparation of OS X Yosemite launch. The Macs would need to run the latest seeded build of OS X Yosemite and if the user would care to test with the iPhone or iPad, then a device with a Lightning connector running iOS 7 or iOS 8 would be needed.

It has been reported according to a letter that the company has planned a special discussion topic in the handling observations as well as test results together with a survey prepared to guide developers for specific testing feature. The directed focus suggest that there are some points of concern which is essential to be sorted out before the completed Yosemite is released to the consumers and the survey is made available through Feedback Assistant.

Information on Right Way to Write up AirDrop Bug Report

Users taking part in the Test Feat have been asked to revert back with issues in special forum which have been set up for the event and this could probably help in avoiding any outstanding critical issue before the launch, which will be in next month. Assistance to these issues for those considering testing feat would be provided with information on the right way to write up AirDrop bug reports.

AirDrop, being one of Yosemite’s important features comes with the ability to transfer swiftly files and media between OS X and iOS platforms without additional steps in sending content through mail and like iOS 7 and OS X 101.9 Mavericks implementations, the AirDrop iteration uses Wi-Fi connection to ferry data to and fro, though it adds in Bluetooth 4.0 for quicker device discovery.

AirDrop automatically collects the list of nearby machines, including Mac running Yosemite when accessed from Control Centre in iOS 8 from which content could be shared. The desktop version too has a dedicated Finder window enabling the transport of files from Mac to iPhone or iPad. AppleSeed members are already in the process of taking part in the AirDrop Test Fest which is scheduled to continue through Sunday, 28th September.

Apple TV Support to HomeKit App

It was reported that Apple has updated its Apple TV boxes enabling them to support the brand’s HomeKit app.

The HomeKit is Apple’s attempt to make the home smarter by providing home gadgets, software which is designed to control home automation systems, by introducing protocolto communicate which can connect domestic devices from an iOS device with all the safety as well as simplicity that the iOS environment could provide.

HomeKit support was first included in late beta version of Apple TV Software update 7.0 that had been released along with iOS 8 recently. According to Aaron Tilley of Forbes though the Apple’s official update documentation was unavailable, the HomeKit frameworks did make the shipping update.

Apple has always been doing far progressive thinking and with the latest update it would be making a great leap from the computer world to the living room world in an era where Smart TV functions have begun to strain from the PC and AV environment.

Apple TV Box with Integrated Bluetooth & Wi-Fi Capabilities 

The HomeKit app control app was first introduced to Apple tablets and phone as the latest iOS 8 update though the main element was missing from the ecosystem, which was a device that bridged the gap between the domestic gadgets and the tablets as well as the phones resulting in the Apple TV box together with its integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities making its appearance.

With this latest entry, Apple TV would be the hub which will combine the fragmented smart home industry enabling users to turn on lights or unlock the door from an iPhone remotely with the help of Apple TV being a bridge device.

With both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless technology as the primary technologies connected devices to communicate in the iOS environment and the Apple TV being always at home, makes it as a hub to communicate with smart devices, an ideal idea.

HomeKit First Software Salvo

With the entry of the HomeKit on the Apple TV box, there could be changes in an instant which proves that Apple is no longer making conduits which tends to simplify the access to the computer and online worlds.

Instead of keeping the home at arm’s length, Apple seems keen in getting involved in every area of the home as well as every part of the domestic life. In June, it was predicted by AppleInsider that the Apple TV was the most likely HomeKit hardware product from Apple.

Many have speculated that Apple’s HomeKit seems to be the first software salvo in the home and iLights and iLocks would soon be following it. This choice could now be more certain since millions of third generation Apple TVs are already available at individuals’ home which can serve the purpose.

According to Tilley, it was stated that anyone with a third generation Apple TV together with the latest 7.0 software update would probably have a HomeKit enabled central hub whether they are aware of it or not.

Apple refrained from commenting about the HomeKit at the summer’s Worldwide Developers Conference though it could be an indication that more developments are in the pipeline probably as early as the rumoured media event which is to be held somewhere by the end of October.

Apple’s iOS 8 - Message App – Various New Features

Messages are always stored by default on the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch and sometimes the text, images, video and other media is viewed after a long time. Keeping all these could take up valuable storage space on the device.

The new feature option in iOS 8 now enables users to select the duration of messages that can be stored on the devices and the new setting will be useful in controlling the time limit of text messages and picture messages which get stored on the device.

Too many messages, a backlog of messages could accumulate over a period of time and take up a considerable amount of space not only on the iPhone but in the form of iCloud backups as well. Apple has provided an option in the first iOS 8 beta by including a `Store Messages’, option which is found in the message section of the app setting.

The message app provides various new features with the upgrade of Apple’s iOS 8 especially for those who participate in group messages which might take up a lot of space or even tend to get annoying. Users have the option of choosing to save the messages forever, for a year or just for 30 days. As of iOS 8, `Store Messages’, default setting is forever.

Message History Setting – 30 Days/Year/Forever

Long text message thread especially those which are accompanied with images tend to utilise more space on an iPhone and Apple taking this into consideration has addressed this problem in iOS 8 by including a new `Message History’ setting. By launching the Setting app, users can customize this, choose messages and change the `keep messages’ option according to their requirements of 30 days, a year or forever.

Selecting the option of 30 days or one year warns the user that the setting would delete all text messages and attachments from the device permanently once it reaches the expiration date. With regards to threads which may remain active, Apple has provided an easier option to go back and view the older attachments and access the unique functions which are available by going to the `details’ menu that is at the upper right area of a message thread.

Functions - `Leave this Conversation/Do Not Disturb’ 

User can then scroll down to the attachments section and view the pictures, video and the other media which have been sent and can also add a name of the group message thread if they intend to do so. If the group message thread tends to get annoying, a new ‘leave this conversation’, function is also available in iOS 8.

Besides this, iOS 8 also enables users to send current location of the conversation to members or even share their location for three different option of time, of one hour, until the end of the day or indefinitely. Sometime, conversation could be unwelcome or bothersome and for this issue, Apple has included a `Do not Disturb switch’, and on enabling this, notification will go on mute mode for on-going conversation making sure that the phone is not buzzing when new messages come in.

These features are besides the new quick sharing functions in sending video, audio images together with text in the new iOS 8.

Apple Watch with 512MB RAM, 4GB Storage

According to recent report regarding the latest Apple Watch which was announced at an event, there seems to be some specifications for the Apple Watch which has been rumoured to be offered with 512MB of RAM together with 4GB built in storage.

Apple was light on its technical specifications and on checking with the company’s supply chain it was found that the product would be included with the said RAM and the GB internal storage. Its details were given in a new research report to investors, recently by Timothy Arcuri of Cowen and Company, which was provided to AppleInsider.

The note claims that the 512 megabytes of mobile DRAM would most probably be supplied by Hynix, Micron and Samsung. Regarding internal storage, Timothy Arcuri is of the opinion that Apple is likely to offer another version of the Apple Watch which would be an 8 gigabyte version in addition to the standard 4 gigabyte version though he states that the choice on larger capacity would not be the default configuration and expects the memory would come from most of the major NAND suppliers.

Wireless Combination Chip

With regards to other internal components, he also expects that the Apple Watch would be featuring a wireless combination chip which would be similar to the Broadcom BCM43342 that is found in iPhone 5s.

 Moreover, the chip also includes a GPS radio which Arcuri states is `somewhat at odds’, with the announcement of Apple, wherein the company states that the Watch would need being tethered to an iPhone to offer GPS data.

No explanation was offered for this discrepancy though there could be a possibility that the chip could be a modified version which lacks GPS or it could be that Apply may have decided not to enable the function, with the aim on improving battery life.

Users would be expected to recharge the Apple Watch every night. Several other companies in the supply chain of Apple Watch is stated to be a wireless charging integrated circuit from Integrated Device Technology, NFC chips from NXP as well as AMS, power management integrated circuits from Maxim Integrated Products and Dialog Semiconductor, a MEMS sensor from Invensense, Wi-Fi front end by Skyworks and microcontroller by STMicroelectronics.

Launch in Early 2015

Some information with regards to the display of the new Apple Watch was also said to be displayed last week, indicating it to be a flexible OLED display with glass as well as plastic versions for various models of the Apple Watch.Apple has not released any details with regards to its launch though all that has been said is that it would be sometime in early 2015 and consumers could expect the launch before the end of the first quarter.

Though the Apple Watch was announced early this month, the company had focused on the design as well as the level of customization which was available in its upcoming wearable device instead of specifications and storage capabilities.

The pricing remains a mystery, but the company had stated that the Watch would be starting at $349 without any breakdown of sizes or collections.