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Apple’s new ad highlights the tech giant’s emphasis on privacy

One thing Apple nearly always does well are its clever advertisements.

The tech giant’s latest ad once again shines a light on its emphasis on privacy and stopping third-party companies and data brokers from selling your personal information.

In the roughly minute and a half advertisement, iPhone user Ellie uncovers a world of data brokers and companies buying and selling the information located on her smartphone, including her emails, drugstore purchases, browsing history and even her contact information depicted through the sale of her grandmother (which is kind of weird).

As you likely already guessed, Ellie uses Apple’s various privacy-focused features like App Tracking Transparency and Mail Privacy Protection to prevent the sale of her data.

As far as ads go, this one is pretty amusing and also does a decent job of highlighting Apple’s emphasis on privacy, something Google spent a significant amount of its recent I/O 2022 presentation discussing.

Image credit: Apple

Source: Apple (YouTube)

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Here are the winners from Apple’s Shot on iPhone Macro Challenge

The winners of Apple’s ‘Shot on iPhone Macro Challenge‘ have been revealed, and it truly shows the prowess of the iPhone 13 series’ Macro Mode when paired with creative individuals.

Out of the several submissions, a panel of judges comprised of Apple employees and photographers Anand Varma, Apeksha Maker, Paddy Chao, and Yik Keat Lee selected ten winning photos to be featured on Apple’s website, Instagram page, and billboards around the world.

The winners of the challenge hail from China, Hungary, India, Italy, Spain, Thailand, and the United States. There were no Canadian winners this time around, though Canadian photographer and filmmaker Peter McKinnon was holding it down for the nation in the panel of judges from around the world.

Check out the top 10 winners from the macro photography challenge below:

“Sea Glass” by Guido Cassanelli (@laion.ph). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro Max.

“The Cave” (hibiscus) by Marco Colletta (@marcolletta.1). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro.

“Art in Nature” (spiderweb) by Prajwal Chougule (@prajwal.photos). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro.

“A Drop of Freedom” (lily) by Daniel Olah (@danesduet). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro Max.

“Leaf Illumination” by Trevor Collins (@trevor.photos) Shot on iPhone 13 Pro.

“Strawberry in Soda” by Ashley Lee (@ashley.photo). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro.

“Volcanic Lava” (sunflower) by Abhik Mondal (@abhik_mondal_photos). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro.

“Honeycomb” (snowflakes on dog hair) by Tom Reeves (@tomreevesphoto). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro.

“Hidden Gem” (water bead in leaf) by Jirasak Panpiansin (@joez19). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro Max.

“The Final Bloom” (tulip) by Hojisan (@hojisan_ins). Shot on iPhone 13 Pro Max.

You can read about the people behind these beautiful images and their stories here.

Image credit: Apple

Source: Apple

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Acting legend Al Pacino uses an iPhone 13 with a Shrek case

While there hasn’t been a new Shrek film since 2010, that hasn’t stopped the internet from meme-ing the hell out of the green ogre for years.

Now, it looks like none other than Oscar winner Al Pacino has been getting in on the fun with a special Shrek-themed phone case.

On Instagram, Aquaman star Jason Momoa posted a photo of himself at a dinner with several other people, including Pacino, to celebrate a gallery opening for painter Julien Schnabel.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jason Momoa (@prideofgypsies)

An unassuming photo at first glance, but naturally, nothing gets by the internet, and attention quickly turned to Pacino’s phone, an iPhone 13. Not only did the image confirm where the 81-year-old lands on the neverending iOS vs. Android debate, but it also showed a case with none other than Shrek himself.

Twitter user @cockagecore pointed out the case with a zoomed-in glance at Momoa’s original photo:

However, some were quick to point out that the actual image on the case is a bit hard to make out, so self-proclaimed Italian cinephile @katepenniman took it upon herself to fact-check. In this case, that meant going about as close to the source as you can get: Pacino’s daughter, Olivia.

In response, Olivia confirmed that her father does indeed have a Shrek phone case. “Yes it is hahah!!” the legendary actor’s daughter responded.

Interestingly, Pacino never lent his voice to any of the Shrek films or their Puss in Boots spin-offs, so it appears that he owns the case simply because he’s a Shrek stan.

Pacino can most recently be seen in last year’s House of Gucci, another meme-worthy film.

Image credit: Universal

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Here’s how you can unlock your iPhone with Face ID while wearing a mask

Apple dropped iOS 15.4 on Monday, March 14th and with the update came new emojis, an additional voice option for Siri and minor bug fixes, though frontrunning the release is the long-requested support for ‘Face ID with a mask.’

While Apple released a temporary fix for using Face ID while wearing a mask with iOS 14.5, it required you to own and wear an Apple Watch. Now, however, your iPhone will scan and analyze unique features and characteristics around your eyes to identify you.

Fret not those who wear eyeglasses, the feature works for us too, so no more pulling the mask down for a split second or typing in your passcode!

It’s worth noting that, unfortunately, the new mask-enabled Face ID doesn’t work on all Apple iPhones, even if your device is running iOS 15.4. The feature is limited to iPhone 12 and newer models, which means the new iPhone SE (2022), which ships with iOS 15.4, can’t unlock your phone just by looking at you if you’re wearing a mask.

To set up the new feature, you’ll first have to update your phone to iOS 15.4. Upon rebooting, your device should automatically prompt you about the new feature, and to set it up. If for any reason it doesn’t, head to settings, navigate to ‘Face ID and Passcode,’ and scroll down to ‘Face ID  with a Mask,’ as seen in the image referenced below:

Your device will now scan your face, more so your eyes, so make sure you’re not wearing sunglasses or eyeglasses. The procedure works similarly to standard Face ID setup where you’ll have to rotate your face in a circular motion. The process is swift and doest take more than five seconds. For those who wear glasses, you’ll have to go through an additional scan. Right below the ‘Face ID with a Mask’ toggle, you’ll now see an ‘Add Glasses’ option, as seen in the screenshots below:

In my personal experience, the feature doesn’t work, unfortunately, but other members of the MobileSyrup team have been more successful. I’ve tried setting up the new feature four times since yesterday, in multiple different lighting conditions, with eyeglasses, without eyeglasses, while wearing a cap and without one. I’ve tried rebooting my device and then setting up the new feature with no success.

Apple’s support page for the new feature mentions “To use Face ID with a mask, Face ID must clearly see your eyes and the areas around the eyes.” I tried it with my eyes wide open, and I’ve tried it with a resting face, and nothing works. Normal Face ID without a mask still works perfectly, with or without eyeglasses. Further, for what it’s worth, I’ve tried different coloured masks too to no avail. For reference, I use an iPhone 12 Pro.

On the other hand, my housemate, who uses the latest iPhone 13 Pro is able to unlock his phone while wearing a mask without a delay or without having to alter the angle of the phone. I don’t think it has anything to do with a one-generation newer iPhone, but at the same time, I also can’t rule the possibility out.

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Mobile Syrup

The best smartphone bike mounts to buy this Spring

Spring is nearly here and for many, it’s a time to break out the bike for some new excursions.

Whether it’s trekking across the city or taking a ride through a trail, having easy access to your phone for notifications or GPS is important. That’s why many prefer to travel with a bike mount for their smartphone.

Let’s take a look at the best smartphone bike mounts you can order online.

Best premium mount


Lamicall Bicycle Cell Phone Mount Clamp

$29.99

Pros:


  • Sturdy mount

  • Supports iPhone 13 and Galaxy S22

  • Simple attachment
Cons:


  • Premium price


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:36 pm GMT

Lamicall offers a robust and sturdy mount that can fit an assortment of handlebars. The smartphone mount holds the device by each of its four corners. It comes with silicon pads to ensure the device does not get scratched or dinged up while travelling.

The Lamicall mount supports devices that are 4.7-inch to 6.8-inches, meaning the entire iPhone 13 series and newly released Galaxy S22 series are supported. Pixel phones, and older iPhone and Galaxy models are also mountable.

In addition, the mount can be fixed in a vertical or horizontal orientation.

Adding to the benefits, Lamicall’s mount is easy to fix and can be mounted on shopping carts, strollers, and more outside of your traditional bicycle.

Best anti-vibration mount


TruActive Premium Bike Phone Mount Holder

$21.99

Pros:


  • Minimalist design

  • Anti-vibration padding

  • 360 degree swivel design
Cons:


  • Bike mount not as secure


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:46 pm GMT

The TruActive smartphone bike mount offers a unique design. Whereas some mounts can be bulkier, this smartphone mount is much more minimalist. It’s made to fit a smartphone using nonslip, anti-vibration padding. This ensures the phone does not rattle and shake while on a road or trail.

The phone is held using rubber secure straps that the company claims have been tested by “engineers with years of road safety experience.” It comes in six colour options to fit your style and design aesthetic.

TruActive’s mount is universal, supporting iPhone, Galaxy, and Pixel devices ranging from 4.0-inches to 6.7-inches with a maximum thickness of 0.71-inches.

Finally, with the ball joint mount, the phone can swivel 360-degrees and be fixed to any viewing angle.

Best easy access mount


Teumi Anti-Shake Bicycle Phone Holder

$17.99

Pros:


  • Easy screen access

  • Anti-vibration pads

  • Solid lock mount
Cons:


  • Not adjustable


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 01:01 pm GMT

Teumi lands on our list with a rather simplistic, yet effective design. This smartphone bike mount supports a smartphone by using four 4 wear-resisting silicone claws and a non-slip PU pad. This is made to ensure the phone will not slip or get scratched on your next cycling outing.

The design of the mount leaves critical components and buttons open for easy access. For instance, the notch on the iPhone is left open so Face ID remains functional. Older devices with Touch ID won’t be compromised either. Volume buttons and other accessible features remain thanks to the mount’s design. Plus, you can adjust the angle and orientation to your preference.

Once again, this mount is universal so whether you just purchased an iPhone 13 Pro or are taking your Galaxy S8 on a scenic venture, you’re covered.

Best sturdy mount


Beemoon Bike Phone Mount

$18.99

Pros:


  • Built like a tank

  • Rubberized design

  • Easy installation
Cons:


  • Bulky


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 01:21 pm GMT

If you’re looking for a mount that appears more sturdy, Beemoon has you covered. This mount holds a smartphone in place by using rubberized corners and can fix any phone ranging from 4.7-inch to 6.8-inches. It is on the thicker side, which may attract someone using a dirtbike or riders on trails.

The Beemoon mount is designed with easy installation in mind. It requires no tools so you don’t have to fuss around with fixing it on your bike. Alternatively, the mount can be secured to a stroller, motorcycle, or other handlebars. Beemoon also includes additional rubber parts to adjust to the width of the handlebars.

As with others on the list, the mount features flexible rotation and orientation. It gives you the freedom of securing your device in landscape or portrait mode. This may be great for anyone shooting videos on their bike ride.

Best budget mount


La Lefn Bike Phone Mount

$9.99

Pros:


  • Budget friendly

  • Anti-vibration mount

  • Easy installation
Cons:


  • Less secure design


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 01:36 pm GMT

When looking at simple, yet effective mounts, La Lefn’s is one to take notice of. This mount features high elastic rubber belts to secure the smartphone safely. It is shock absorbent so your device will resist vibrations and any potential impact.

The almost spiderweb design of the mount supports standard size phones as well as larger ones ie: iPhone 13 Pro Max and Galaxy S22 Ultra.

The inside of the handlebar mount has non-slip damping to alleviate worries about the mount falling off or shifting. Additionally, installation requires no tools as the band is designed much like a watch or belt.

The La Lefn mount is a cost-efficient option when compared to others.

Best detachable phone mount


Teumi Detachable Bike Phone Mount

$15.29

Pros:


  • Easily detachable phone

  • 360 degree swivel design

  • Good value
Cons:


  • Less secure design


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:21 pm GMT

Teumi is once again on the list. This time, however, with a detachable smartphone mount. While all other mounts on the list require you to take the device off the mount in order to answer a call or text, this mount doesn’t.

The universal banded design slots directly into the smartphone bike mount. When taking a call, the silicon band and holder rotates 90-degrees and can be removed. Due to the slim-fit nature of the band, it isn’t obtrusive to use while attached to the phone.

As you can now imagine, this mount does not interfere with the display and front-facing camera of the phone. It can also be adjusted while mounted. Users can freely rotate the device a full 360-degrees to the appropriate position.

Most unique design


iMestou Bike Phone Mount

$24.99

Pros:


  • Unique design

  • Vibration resistant

  • Access to phone buttons
Cons:


  • Complicated installation


  • Not the best value


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:26 pm GMT

Finally, iMestou comes in with their mount. Here, we see a slightly different approach to design. This smartphone bike mount holds the phone primarily by the sides and bottom. This leaves everything from the power button, volume, and front-facing camera completely uncompromised.

The iMestou mount comfortably fits devices from 3.5-inch to 6.8-inches. The mount is comprised of plastic clamping arms and supporting pads for grip. Plus, you’ll find full rotation is possible with adjustable viewing angles.

This mount does require a bit of installation. On the rear, a screw must be fastened. Though, that may be appealing for those who wish to have peace of mind on the safety of their device.

And now you’re ready

There you have it. This spring, ensure your phone is within arm’s reach and safely secured while on a bike trip. No matter if you’re headed to the grocery store or racing over a hill, the benefits of securing your phone nearby should speak for themselves.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though we may earn a commission on purchases made via these links that helps fund the journalism provided free on our website.

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Only Apple’s iPhone 14 Pro devices will get the A16 chip: report

A new report from often-reliable TF International Securities Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says that only Apple’s higher-end Pro model iPhone 14 devices will feature its new A16 chip.

If this rumour is accurate, this would mark a fundamental shift in Apple’s smartphone strategy.

Kuo tweeted the news from his new Twitter account, stating that Apple’s mid-range iPhone 14 smartphones will still feature the same A15 chip as the iPhone 13 and the new iPhone SE (2022).

In the past, Apple has included its new smartphone chip in its entire lineup of new iPhones for that year. Kuo goes on to say that all four iPhone 14 devices will feature 6GB of RAM, but that the Pro models will feature LPDDR 5 memory and the standard iPhone 14s will offer LPDDR 4X RAM.

Kuo also says that Apple is ditching the mini from its 2022 lineup and will instead offer a 6.1-inch iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro and a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Max and iPhone 14 Pro Max.

It’s unclear if Apple’s decision to limit the A16 to its higher-end 2022 devices is tied to the ongoing worldwide chip shortage or if it’s a strategic move on the tech giant’s part. In other Apple-related news, Kuo also recently tweeted that Apple’s 2023 Mac mini will feature the same form factor as its predecessor.

Apple is expected to reveal its 2022 iPhone lineup this fall.

Source: @mingchikuo Via: MacRumors 

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What was your favourite part of Apple’s ‘Peek Performance’ event?

Apple showed off several new devices at its March ‘Peek Performance’ event, including green colour variants for the iPhone 13 series, the iPhone SE (2022), the iPad Air (2022), the M1 Ultra chip, the Studio Display and the Mac Studio.

While the pretty new green iPhone 13 models are cool and the iPad Air now offers an M1 chip, the show’s stars were the Mac Studio and the Studio Display.

The Mac Studio is a high-performance desktop device that features up to 128GB of RAM and Apple’s powerful M1 Ultra chip. On the other hand, the Studio Display sports a 5K resolution and a built-in 12-megapixel webcam powered by Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, the same processor featured in the iPhone 11.

What was your favourite part of the ‘Peek Performance’ event? Let us know in the comments below.

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Heres a chance to win a new Green iPhone 13 with MobileSyrup

Apple’s ‘Green’ iPhone 13 is now available for pre-order in Canada, with the phone officially releasing on March 18th. However, if you’re not looking to buy the new iPhone 13 colour yourself, MobileSyrup has you covered.

The iPhone 13 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina display, two 12-megapixel cameras, and more.

In Patrick O’Rourke’s review of the iPhone 13 he writes, “even though the iPhone 13 is very much an incremental step forward, it includes useful new features like a more powerful processor, the excellent Cinematic video mode and a brighter display.”

The iPhone 13 we have to offer is a brand-new 128GB ‘Green’ iPhone 13 that typically costs $1,099. This contest runs from March 11th and the winner will be selected on March 31st.

Subscribe to our newsletter using the form below for your chance to win the Green iPhone 13.

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Here’s the ‘Green’ and ‘Alpine Green’ iPhone 13/iPhone 13 Pro

Apple’s new ‘Green’ iPhone 13 mini/iPhone 13 and ‘Alpine Green’ iPhone 13 Pro/iPhone 13 Pro Max are now available to pre-order, starting at $949/$1,099 and $1,399/$1,549, respectively. The new green iPhone 13 devices release on March 18th.

The smartphones are identical to the rest of the iPhone 13 lineup beyond the new green colour. Last year, Apple released a new ‘Purple’ iPhone 12/iPhone 12 mini colour, but with the iPhone 13, the tech giant opted for two distinct green hues across the iPhone 13 lineup.

After briefly going hands-on with the ‘Green’ iPhone 13 and the ‘Alpine Green’ iPhone 13 Pro, I’d say I prefer the Pro variant of the new colour. It reminds me of the awesome-looking ‘Midnight Green’ iPhone 11 Pro colour and is a cool throwback to Apple’s 2019 flagship smartphone.

Check out a few photos of Apple’s new green iPhone colours below:

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Apple’s iPhone SE (2022), iPad Air (2022) and Green iPhone 13 are now available for pre-order

Apple’s iPhone SE (2022), iPad Air (2022) and new green iPhone 13/iPhone 13 Pro are now available for pre-order.

iPhone SE (2022)

The iPhone SE (2022) features the same 4.7-inch iPhone 8-like design as its predecessor, including the popular physical Touch ID Home Button. This year’s upgrades include the iPhone 13 series’ A15 chip, 5G connectivity and new software-powered camera features.

The iPhone SE (2022) starts at $579 and is available in ‘Midnight,’ ‘Starlight’ and ‘Product Red.’ The smartphone releases on March 18th and is available to pre-order now.

iPad Air (2022)

Like the iPhone SE (2022), the new iPad Air (2022)’s upgrades are mostly inside. The tablet features Apple’s powerful M1 processor, the same chip added to the iPad Pro line, and features new colours like ‘Blue’ and ‘Starlight.’

The iPad Air (2022) starts at $749 and is available in ‘Space Grey,’ ‘Pink,’ ‘Purple,’ ‘Blue’ and ‘Starlight.’ The tablet releases on March 18th and is available to pre-order now.

iPhone 13 ‘Green’ and iPhone 13 Pro ‘Alpine Green’

Apple’s new ‘Green’ iPhone 13 mini/iPhone 13 and ‘Alpine Green’ iPhone 13 Pro/iPhone 13 Pro Max are now available to pre-order starting at $949/$1,099 and $1,399/$1,549 respectively.

The smartphones are identical to the rest of the iPhone 13 lineup beyond the new colour, which seems to take inspiration from the iPhone 11 Pro’s ‘Midnight Green.’

The new green iPhone 13 devices release on March 18th and are available to pre-order now.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though we may earn a commission on purchases made via these links that helps fund the journalism provided free on our website.

Image credit: Apple