Apple plans to adopt RCS for the iPhone in 2024

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a texting standard that offers more features than SMS or MMS, such as typing indicators, high-quality media sharing and in-line reactions. It is available on Android phones using the Google Messages app, the default texting app on most Android devices. Apple said in a statement to 9to5Mac on Thursday that it will support RCS Universal Profile, the standard published by the GSM Association, on the iPhone next year. The company said RCS will work alongside iMessage, which it says will remain the best and most secure messaging experience for Apple users. Apple did not give an exact time frame for the implementation.

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Microsoft’s new Windows App lets you stream Windows from the cloud

Microsoft

Microsoft has launched a new Windows App that lets you stream Windows from various sources, including a remote PC, Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, Microsoft Dev Box, and Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Services. The app is available for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Windows, and web browsers. And you can consider it an upgraded version of the previous Windows 365 app.

The Windows App supports multiple monitors, custom display resolutions and scaling, and device redirection for peripherals like webcams, storage devices, and printers. However, the app is not yet available for Android devices and is currently limited to Microsoft’s business accounts.

The Windows App is a sign of Microsoft’s ambition to move Windows fully to the cloud, something the company has been working on for a long time. Microsoft created a new team dedicated to building AI-powered web services for Windows, such as the dynamic search interface, the widgets system, and the Copilot integration in Windows 11.

Microsoft also revealed its plans to offer Windows as a cloud service during the FTC v. Microsoft hearing. The Windows App could be the first step towards enabling consumers to access cloud PCs and Windows apps on any device, regardless of the operating system.

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Apple can reportedly update iPhones in their packaging

Apple Insider

Apple might be able to update your iPhone even if they're still in their packaging and Apple's stores. Typically, when you buy new hardware, you would need to update the device when you first open it. But Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports in his newsletter that Apple has a system that can update the iPhone's operating system before they get sold. And they don't even have to be taken out of the box.

There will be a "pad-like device" in stores where employees can place unopened iPhone boxes to trigger an update. This pad will wirelessly turn on the iPhone, run the software update, and then turn it off again. This system might be in place before the year ends.

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Nothing and CASETiFY launch smartphone case collab for iPhone 14 and 15

CASETiFY and Nothing

Nothing, the British electronics brand known for its minimalist design, has partnered with CASETiFY for a new line of smartphone cases. But it isn't for its phones. Instead, the collaboration features four cases compatible with the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series. It carries that transparent back design distinctive for its devices, but they've made the phone cases for Apple devices. It's available in black or white, with either the "Nothing" logo or white lines highlighting the wireless charger. If you want to confuse people, here's a case to get.

The collection also includes a Nothing Mini Pouch for the Ear (2), Nothing’s wireless earbuds. The pouch has a utility lanyard that makes it easy to carry and access your earbuds and their case. The Nothing x CASETiFY collaboration is available on CASETiFY's website, with pricing starting at US$70 (around CA$97).

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