Apple unveils iPhone 16e, ditching the SE moniker

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Apple has officially announced the iPhone 16e, a new entry-level model joining the iPhone 16 family. Dropping the SE branding, the iPhone 16e aims to distance itself from perceptions of being a "lesser" device. It boasts several key features, including Apple Intelligence support, previously absent in the iPhone 14.  

The iPhone 16e sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with Ceramic Shield, and Apple claims it has the "toughest back glass in a smartphone." It's powered by the A18 chip and features a 48MP "2-in-1 camera system"—though it's still a single lens setup capable of lossless 2x zoom. Apple also promises "the best battery life ever on a 6.1-inch iPhone," exceeding the iPhone 11 by six hours and all SE models by up to 12 hours. But that claim requires real-life testing.

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Apple event teased for Feb. 19, AirTag 2 and iPhone SE rumours swirl

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Apple CEO Tim Cook tweeted, "Get ready to meet the newest member of the family, teasing the event scheduled for Wednesday, February 19, which he affixed with the #AppleLaunch hashtag. Cook's tweet included an animated image of a shimmering Apple logo superimposed on what resembles an AirTag outline, fueling speculation about the long-rumoured AirTag 2. The new tracker is expected to feature an improved range, a more secure speaker, and Apple Vision Pro integration.

Rumours also point to a new iPhone SE announcement. While initially predicted for this week, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggests the SE will arrive by next week, coinciding with Apple's product briefings. Gurman also mentioned a potential Apple Vision Pro announcement and an M4-powered MacBook Air launch "within weeks." With several potential releases in the pipeline, Apple's February 19 event promises to be packed with news.

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Apple TV app finally arrives on Android

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After years of anticipation, the Apple TV app is now available for Android devices. The app, designed for smartphones, tablets, and foldables running Android 10 or later, is available for download on the Google Play Store. This full-featured version allows users to access Apple TV+ content, including popular shows like Severance, Silo, and Ted Lasso, with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. Subscriptions can be managed directly through Google Play.   

The app also features MLS Season Pass content and weekly MLB double-headers. While previous workarounds existed, this marks the first native Apple TV app for Android phones and tablets, offering features like resume playback and offline downloads. Notably, the app currently lacks casting support, but it might arrive in a future update. Android TV users can also now subscribe to Apple TV+ directly through Google Play.

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Apple patent points to potential Vision Pro gaming controller

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While Apple's Vision Pro headset boasts impressive specs, its gaming potential is hampered by a lack of dedicated VR controllers. Although compatible with console controllers and hand tracking, neither offers an ideal VR gaming experience. However, a newly discovered patent application, titled "Handheld Input Devices," suggests Apple may be developing its own solution. The patent depicts a Wii-style stick controller, hinting at a focus on gaming, despite the patent's vague description of its uses.

This move signals Apple's increased interest in Vision Pro gaming. While collaboration with Sony for PSVR2 controller support has been rumoured, developing its own controller demonstrates a greater commitment and investment. The patent doesn't reveal the controller's final design or functionality, but it confirms Apple's active exploration of dedicated VR input.

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