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Technology

Telegram returns to Apple app store

Telegram has returned to Apple’s App Store after being briefly removed from the platform over content linked to child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The messaging app disappeared from Apple’s App Store on Tuesday, August 4, but was later restored after Telegram said it had removed the offending material and banned the account responsible.

The incident was short, but it quickly raised questions about content moderation, online safety and the responsibilities of large messaging platforms. It also showed how dependent major technology companies can be on Apple’s rules when distributing their apps to millions of iPhone and iPad users.

Telegram confirmed that its app had been restored after the temporary removal. Apple said its App Review team had identified content on Telegram that violated its rules prohibiting child sexual abuse material. The company said Telegram responded by removing the material and banning the user who had posted it. Following those steps, Apple allowed the app to return to its store.

For people who already had Telegram installed on their iPhones or iPads, the removal did not mean that the messaging service suddenly stopped working. The bigger impact was on people who wanted to download the app for the first time or reinstall it. Telegram’s brief absence from the App Store nevertheless created uncertainty because users were initially given little information about why the app had disappeared.

The episode is significant because Telegram is one of the world’s largest messaging platforms. The company says it has more than one billion monthly users, making it a major part of the global digital communications landscape. People use Telegram not only for private conversations but also for large groups, public channels, businesses, news updates and communities.

That enormous scale makes content moderation a complicated task. Millions of pieces of content can be shared across the platform, and companies have to identify illegal material while trying not to interfere with legitimate communication.

Telegram has repeatedly defended its approach to privacy and freedom of expression. At the same time, it says it has a zero-tolerance policy towards child sexual abuse material. The company said it had blocked nearly 338,000 groups and channels associated with CSAM so far this year.

The latest dispute suggests that even extensive moderation efforts can face scrutiny from technology platforms that distribute messaging apps. Apple has strict App Store guidelines covering illegal and harmful content. Developers must comply with those rules if they want their applications to remain available to Apple users.

The incident is also a reminder of the power Apple holds over the mobile app ecosystem. Telegram controls its own service, but it depends on Apple to make its application available to users of iPhones and iPads. A decision by Apple to remove an app can therefore have an immediate commercial and reputational impact.

Telegram has faced a similar situation before. In 2018, Apple temporarily removed the messaging application from its App Store over concerns about prohibited content. The app was later restored after Telegram addressed the issues raised by the company.

The latest removal comes at a time when messaging services around the world are facing increasing pressure to strengthen their systems for detecting illegal content. Regulators and governments are demanding greater accountability from technology companies, particularly over child exploitation material and other forms of online abuse.

The challenge is especially complicated for privacy-focused platforms. Stronger moderation can require greater monitoring of content, while users of services such as Telegram often choose them precisely because they offer greater privacy and control over communication.

The incident involving Telegram also highlights the difference between platform moderation and app-store enforcement. Telegram is responsible for managing content on its service, while Apple is responsible for ensuring that applications distributed through its store meet its own rules. In this case, both systems came into play.

Apple’s decision to restore Telegram relatively quickly suggests that the company considered the issue resolved after the offending content was removed and the account involved was banned. There was no indication that Apple intended to permanently block Telegram from its App Store.

The brief removal nevertheless generated speculation among users and observers. Telegram has faced regulatory scrutiny and criticism in several countries, while its founder Pavel Durov has also been involved in wider debates about privacy and online content. However, the latest App Store action was specifically attributed to prohibited child sexual abuse material.

For ordinary users, the most important development is that Telegram is once again available through Apple’s official app marketplace. Existing users were largely able to continue using the service during the disruption, while new users can now download the application normally.

For Telegram, however, the episode is a warning that its rapid growth brings greater responsibility. A platform with more than a billion monthly users cannot rely only on its size and popularity. It must demonstrate that its systems are capable of identifying and removing illegal material quickly.

The company will also have to maintain a balance between content moderation and its long-standing privacy-focused identity. That balance is becoming increasingly important as governments, regulators and technology companies demand stronger safeguards from online platforms.

Telegram’s return to Apple’s App Store brings the immediate controversy to an end. But the episode serves as another reminder that the future of digital communication will depend on finding a workable balance between privacy, free expression and online safety.

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Technology

iPhone 18 Pro leaks hint at major upgrades

Apple’s next premium iPhones are beginning to take shape through a growing stream of leaks, with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max expected to arrive in September 2026. While Apple has not confirmed the launch date or specifications, recent reports point to meaningful upgrades in cameras, processing power, battery life and connectivity rather than a completely new design.

The iPhone 18 Pro series is expected to continue Apple’s familiar premium design language. The iPhone 18 Pro could retain a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to feature a 6.9-inch screen. That means users should not expect a major change in screen size compared with the current Pro models.

The bigger display-related change could be under the surface. Apple is reportedly considering LTPO+ display technology for the new Pro models. The technology could make the screen more power-efficient and potentially help improve battery endurance. Reports also suggest that Apple may reduce the size of the Dynamic Island by moving some Face ID components beneath the display. One recent leak claims the front cutout could become significantly smaller, although this detail remains uncertain.

For users who care most about photography, the camera could be the biggest reason to watch the iPhone 18 Pro launch. Apple is reportedly preparing a variable-aperture main camera for the Pro models. Unlike the fixed aperture found on current iPhones, a variable aperture can adjust the amount of light reaching the camera sensor.

In practical terms, that could give the iPhone greater flexibility in bright and low-light conditions. It could also improve depth-of-field control, making portrait photographs look more natural. The feature may also help with video exposure in difficult lighting. However, it is not yet clear whether Apple will allow users to manually control the aperture or manage it automatically through the camera software.

The telephoto camera is also expected to receive improvements, particularly in aperture and low-light performance. Some reports have additionally pointed to a new stacked image sensor for at least one Pro model, which could help improve image processing and reduce noise. These camera changes, if they arrive, would give Apple another way to compete with increasingly capable Android camera phones.

Performance is another major focus. The iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to be powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip, reportedly manufactured using TSMC’s first-generation 2nm process. Moving from the current 3nm generation to 2nm could deliver improvements in processing performance and power efficiency.

The smaller manufacturing process could allow Apple to fit more transistors into the chip while reducing energy consumption. That could be particularly useful for demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing and on-device artificial intelligence. Reports also suggest Apple may use an advanced chip-packaging method to improve performance further.

Connectivity could receive an upgrade through Apple’s second-generation C2 modem. The modem is expected to improve 5G performance and power efficiency. Some leaks also suggest support for satellite-based 5G connectivity, potentially allowing limited internet access without conventional cellular or Wi-Fi networks. The exact availability of such a feature could vary by market.

Battery life is another area where the iPhone 18 Pro Max could see a noticeable improvement. One report suggests the larger model could receive a battery close to 10% larger than its predecessor. Another estimate puts the capacity at around 5,200mAh. Combined with the efficiency gains expected from the A20 Pro chip and new modem, this could result in longer real-world battery life.

The Pro Max could, however, become slightly thicker to accommodate the larger battery. Leaks also suggest a refreshed rear finish and new colour options, including a dark cherry or deep red shade, along with lighter blue, dark grey and silver variants.

Apple may also tweak the Camera Control button, reportedly simplifying its design and reducing some touch and haptic functionality. The rear Ceramic Shield area could receive a more seamless, frosted appearance.

The biggest surprise may eventually be the price. Recent reports suggest the iPhone 18 Pro models could cost considerably more than their predecessors because of higher component, memory and manufacturing costs. Estimates have ranged from around $200 to $300 higher in some configurations. Indian pricing could therefore rise sharply, although no official figures are available yet.

 

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Technology

Apple releases iOS 26.6 with major security fixes

Apple has rolled out iOS 26.6, the latest software update for iPhone users, bringing a strong focus on security, stability and system performance rather than new features. The update includes 77 security patches, several bug fixes and underlying improvements that prepare compatible iPhones for the arrival of iOS 27 later this year. While the release may appear modest at first glance, cybersecurity experts say it is one of Apple’s most important software updates in recent months and should be installed without delay.

Unlike Apple’s annual operating system upgrades that introduce redesigned apps and new features, iOS 26.6 is aimed at making iPhones safer and more reliable. The company has addressed vulnerabilities across multiple parts of the operating system, including WebKit, the browser engine used by Safari, the iPhone kernel, networking services, Bluetooth, media processing, accessibility tools and other core frameworks that run essential system functions.

Apple‘s official security documentation lists 77 fixes covering a wide range of potential vulnerabilities. Some of these flaws could have allowed malicious applications to gain elevated privileges, while others could have exposed users to attacks through specially crafted websites or files. Although Apple has not said that any of these vulnerabilities were actively exploited in real-world attacks, security researchers note that delaying software updates can leave devices exposed once technical details become public.

Cybersecurity specialists have welcomed the release, pointing out that regular software updates remain one of the simplest ways to protect smartphones against evolving cyber threats. With iPhones increasingly used for digital banking, online shopping, work emails, health records and personal communication, keeping software up to date has become more important than ever.

Beyond security, iOS 26.6 also improves the overall stability of compatible iPhones. Apple has fixed several bugs reported by users in previous versions of iOS 26, resulting in smoother day-to-day performance and improved system reliability. Although these changes may not be immediately noticeable, they help reduce app crashes, improve background processes and enhance the overall user experience.

Technology analysts say Apple’s approach reflects its long-standing software strategy. Instead of introducing new features in every update, the company often releases maintenance versions that strengthen the operating system before the next major upgrade. These updates ensure that millions of devices remain secure while providing developers with a stable platform for future software releases.

One of the most significant aspects of iOS 26.6 is its preparation for iOS 27. Hidden within the update are several system-level changes and framework improvements designed to support Apple’s next-generation operating system. These behind-the-scenes enhancements will help ensure a smoother upgrade process when iOS 27 becomes available later this year.

Although users will not immediately notice these foundational improvements, developers believe they will reduce compatibility issues and improve support for upcoming features expected in the next version of iOS. Installing iOS 26.6 now also means devices will already have many of the underlying components needed for the future software rollout.

The release arrives at a time when smartphone security is receiving greater attention worldwide. Cybercriminals are constantly searching for weaknesses in mobile operating systems to steal personal information, banking credentials and passwords. Security patches such as those included in iOS 26.6 help close these vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, making timely software updates an essential part of digital safety.

Industry experts also note that users often postpone software updates because they expect visible new features. However, maintenance releases like iOS 26.6 are equally important because they strengthen the security architecture of the device. In many cases, the absence of new features is intentional, allowing engineers to focus entirely on improving protection and system performance.

Installing the update is straightforward. Users can download iOS 26.6 by opening Settings, selecting General, and tapping Software Update. Apple recommends connecting the iPhone to a Wi-Fi network, ensuring sufficient battery charge or keeping the device plugged into a charger during installation. Creating an iCloud or computer backup before updating is also advisable, particularly for users with important personal or work-related data.

The update is available for all supported iPhone models running iOS 26, although installation times may vary depending on device model and internet speed. Apple typically rolls out updates in phases, meaning some users may receive the notification slightly later than others.

Technology experts believe the release demonstrates Apple’s continued emphasis on balancing innovation with security. While much of the excitement in the months ahead will centre on iOS 27 and its expected new capabilities, the company is ensuring that the current generation of iPhones remains protected against emerging cyber threats.

For everyday users, the latest update may not transform how their iPhone looks or functions, but it significantly improves how safely it operates. With 77 security fixes, enhanced stability, bug resolutions and preparations for the next generation of Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 26.6 represents a critical update for millions of iPhone users worldwide.

As Apple continues refining its software ecosystem, the message surrounding iOS 26.6 is clear: staying updated is no longer just about accessing new features, it is about protecting personal data, maintaining device reliability and ensuring every iPhone is ready for the future. Users who have not yet installed the update are being advised to do so at the earliest opportunity to benefit from the latest security enhancements and performance improvements.

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Corporate

Apple regains world’s most valuable company title

Apple has reclaimed its position as the world’s most valuable company, overtaking AI chipmaker Nvidia after a strong rally in its share price boosted the iPhone maker’s market capitalisation. The shift marks another chapter in the intense competition among the world’s biggest technology companies, where leadership has changed several times over the past year as investor sentiment continues to evolve.

At the close of trading, Apple’s market value rose to around $4.1 trillion, edging past Nvidia, whose market capitalisation stood at just over $4 trillion. The change reflects renewed investor confidence in Apple’s long-term strategy, even as Nvidia remains one of the biggest beneficiaries of the global artificial intelligence boom.

Apple’s comeback follows weeks of steady gains in its stock price. Investors have responded positively to the company’s efforts to strengthen its artificial intelligence strategy, expand its services business and introduce new software features designed to integrate AI more deeply across its ecosystem. The rally has helped Apple recover from earlier concerns over slowing iPhone demand and increasing competition in the smartphone market.

While Nvidia continues to dominate the AI chip industry, its shares experienced a modest pullback after an extraordinary run over the past two years. The company remains the leading supplier of advanced graphics processing units (GPUs) used to train and run artificial intelligence models, making it one of the biggest winners of the global AI revolution.

Despite slipping to second place, Nvidia’s business continues to perform strongly. Demand for its AI processors remains robust, with major technology companies investing billions of dollars in artificial intelligence infrastructure, cloud computing and data centres. Analysts say the change in rankings reflects normal market fluctuations rather than any weakness in Nvidia’s fundamentals.

Apple’s return to the top also highlights the company’s ability to maintain investor confidence through its diversified business model. Beyond hardware, the company generates significant revenue from services such as the App Store, Apple Music, iCloud and Apple TV+, providing a steady source of income even during slower product cycles.

The company has also increased its focus on artificial intelligence. At its recent developer events, Apple introduced new AI-powered features across iPhone, iPad and Mac devices, reinforcing its commitment to bringing generative AI capabilities to millions of users. Investors believe these initiatives could strengthen customer loyalty while creating new opportunities for long-term growth.

The battle for the title of world’s most valuable company has become increasingly competitive. Over the past year, Apple, Nvidia and Microsoft have frequently exchanged positions at the top as investors reassessed growth prospects across different segments of the technology industry. The rapid rise of artificial intelligence has significantly boosted valuations for companies seen as leaders in AI hardware and software.

Market analysts say Apple’s strong brand, loyal customer base and integrated ecosystem continue to give it a competitive advantage. Even as the company faces challenges in smartphone sales, its ability to generate recurring revenue from services and expand into new technologies has reassured investors.

For Nvidia, the brief loss of the top position does little to diminish its remarkable achievements. Under CEO Jensen Huang, the company has transformed from a graphics chip manufacturer into the backbone of the AI industry. Its processors power many of the world’s most advanced artificial intelligence models, making Nvidia a central player in the ongoing AI revolution.

The latest rankings also underline the enormous influence of the technology sector on global financial markets. Together, Apple, Nvidia and Microsoft account for trillions of dollars in market value and play a major role in driving major stock market indices such as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq.

Investors are now closely watching upcoming earnings reports from both Apple and Nvidia, which could once again reshape the rankings. Any major announcements related to artificial intelligence, product launches or financial performance are expected to have a significant impact on their valuations.

For consumers, the changing order may not affect the products they use every day. However, for investors and the broader technology industry, it reflects the intense competition among the world’s biggest innovators as they race to define the future of artificial intelligence, consumer technology and digital services.

Apple’s return to the top is a reminder that while AI has transformed the technology landscape, long-term market leadership still depends on a combination of innovation, financial performance, customer loyalty and investor confidence. As the race between Apple, Nvidia and other technology giants continues, the title of the world’s most valuable company is likely to remain one of the most closely watched contests on Wall Street.

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Technology

Apple opens iOS 27 Public Beta to iPhone users

Apple has released the public beta of iOS 27, allowing iPhone users to test its latest software before the official rollout later this year. The update introduces several artificial intelligence (AI) features, a redesigned interface and a more capable Siri, giving users an early glimpse of the next generation of iPhone software.

The standout feature is the upgraded Siri, which is now powered by Apple Intelligence. The virtual assistant can better understand natural conversations, remember previous requests and carry out more complex tasks across apps. Apple says the improvements are aimed at making Siri more useful in everyday interactions while keeping user data secure.

iOS 27 also brings a refreshed look to the iPhone with smoother animations, redesigned menus and more customisation options. Core apps such as Phone, Messages, Photos and Camera have received updates to improve navigation and simplify routine tasks.

The update includes AI-powered writing tools that can summarise, rewrite and proofread text. Users will also find smarter search functions, improved image editing and better organisation across the system. Apple said most AI processing happens directly on the device, while more advanced tasks are handled through its Private Cloud Compute system to protect user privacy.

The public beta is available through Apple’s Beta Software Program and can be downloaded by users with supported iPhone models. The company recommends backing up devices before installing the beta, as pre-release software may contain bugs and unexpected issues.

Some of the advanced Apple Intelligence features will only be available on newer iPhone models with compatible hardware, while older supported devices will receive the standard iOS 27 improvements.

Apple is expected to continue refining the software through additional beta updates over the coming weeks before the stable version is released alongside its next iPhone lineup later this year.

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1 Minute-Read

Apple sues OpenAI over alleged trade secrets theft

Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and two former employees, alleging they misused confidential company information related to its hardware development.

The tech giant claims the employees copied sensitive trade secrets before leaving Apple and later used the knowledge while working on OpenAI’s AI hardware initiatives. Apple is seeking damages and a court order to prevent the alleged use of its proprietary information.

OpenAI has denied any wrongdoing and said it will contest the claims. The case adds to growing legal disputes as technology companies race to develop next-generation AI-powered hardware.

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Corporate

Apple, Broadcom sign $30 bn US chipmaking deal

Apple has announced a $30 billion agreement with Broadcom to manufacture advanced chips in the United States, marking one of its biggest investments yet in domestic semiconductor production. The multi-year deal is aimed at expanding Apple’s US supply chain while reducing dependence on overseas manufacturing.

Under the partnership, Broadcom will produce a range of high-performance chips at its American facilities. These components are expected to power future Apple devices, including iPhones, Macs, iPads and other products. The agreement supports Apple’s broader strategy of securing a stable supply of critical semiconductors while investing in advanced manufacturing within the country.

The announcement comes as global technology companies continue to diversify supply chains following recent disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions and chip shortages. By sourcing more components from the US, Apple hopes to improve supply reliability and strengthen long-term manufacturing resilience.

The investment also aligns with the US government’s push to boost domestic semiconductor production. Washington has encouraged companies to expand local manufacturing through incentives aimed at reducing reliance on foreign chip suppliers and strengthening national technological capabilities.

Apple said the partnership with Broadcom will support innovation, create high-skilled jobs and help develop next-generation semiconductor technologies. The company has increasingly focused on designing its own chips, and the latest agreement is expected to further strengthen its hardware ecosystem.

Broadcom, one of Apple’s key suppliers, is expected to play a central role in manufacturing specialised components that support wireless connectivity and other advanced technologies used across Apple’s product lineup. The company said the investment would expand its manufacturing capabilities and reinforce its long-standing relationship with Apple.

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Technology

Apple brings back card payments In India

Apple has restarted credit and debit card payments for App Store and iCloud purchases in India after a gap of nearly five years, following compliance with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) card tokenisation requirements. The move brings relief to users who had been depending mainly on UPI, net banking and Apple Account balance for digital purchases.

The company has begun a phased rollout, allowing eligible Visa and Mastercard users to add their cards to Apple Accounts. These cards can now be used for App Store transactions, subscriptions such as iCloud+ and Apple Music, and other Apple services.

Apple had removed card payments from its Indian services after RBI introduced stricter rules for recurring online transactions. The regulations required companies to use tokenised card data instead of storing customers’ actual card details. They also introduced additional requirements around payment authorisation and data handling.

To meet these requirements, Apple adjusted its payment systems to align with India’s regulatory framework. Under the tokenisation system, card details are replaced with secure digital tokens, reducing the risk of exposing sensitive financial information during transactions.

The return of card payments is also being viewed as a possible step towards Apple’s long-awaited entry into India’s digital payments market with Apple Pay. However, the company still needs to complete discussions with banks and secure necessary approvals before any official launch.

For Indian Apple users, the change means more flexibility while paying for apps, subscriptions and digital services. Card users who prefer credit or debit cards for rewards, expense tracking or automatic payments will now have another option alongside UPI and other existing payment methods.

The development highlights how global technology companies are adapting their payment platforms to meet India’s evolving digital payment rules, while regulators continue to prioritise security and consumer protection.

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Technology

Apple challenges CCI App Store findings

Apple has challenged the findings of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) in its investigation into the company’s App Store practices, taking the matter to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT).

The technology giant has objected to the CCI’s investigation report, which alleged that Apple abused its dominant position by imposing restrictive conditions on app developers and requiring them to use its in-app payment system. The regulator’s findings could pave the way for further action against the company.

In its appeal, Apple argued that the investigation was not based on an independent assessment of the Indian market. It claimed the report was largely a “copy-paste exercise”, relying heavily on findings from similar antitrust cases in other countries instead of examining India’s unique market conditions.

Apple also maintained that it does not dominate India’s smartphone market, pointing to strong competition from Android device makers. The company said its App Store policies are intended to protect users by ensuring privacy, security and a consistent experience for developers and customers.

The CCI’s probe began after complaints from app developers, who alleged that Apple’s rules limited competition and forced them to use the company’s payment system while paying commissions on digital transactions.

The case is being closely watched by the technology industry, as its outcome could influence how global digital platforms operate in India. If regulators uphold the findings, Apple may have to modify some of its App Store policies for Indian developers.

The tribunal will now examine Apple’s appeal before deciding whether the CCI’s investigation was conducted fairly and whether its findings should stand. The case marks another chapter in India’s growing scrutiny of large technology companies and their business practices in the country’s expanding digital economy.

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Technology

Apple hikes MacBook, iPad prices

Apple has increased the prices of several MacBooks, iPads and other devices, saying soaring memory and storage chip costs driven by the artificial intelligence (AI) boom have made the move unavoidable.

The price revision affects multiple markets, including India, where some Apple products have become significantly more expensive. However, the company has not increased iPhone prices for now, although industry experts believe they could also rise later this year.

Apple said the sharp increase in the cost of memory components is the main reason behind the hike. As AI companies invest billions of dollars in building data centres, chipmakers are prioritising high-end AI hardware, reducing the supply of memory chips used in consumer electronics. This has pushed up prices across the industry.

The company had absorbed much of the additional cost over the past year, but said it was no longer sustainable. Several MacBook, iPad, HomePod and Apple TV models now carry higher price tags, with Indian customers among those seeing some of the steepest increases.

Industry analysts say Apple is unlikely to be the only company raising prices. Other laptop and smartphone manufacturers could follow if memory shortages continue, as demand for AI infrastructure keeps growing.

The development highlights how the AI revolution is beginning to affect everyday consumers. While artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities, it is also increasing competition for key components, making devices such as laptops and tablets more expensive.

For buyers planning to upgrade their devices, the latest hike means spending more than expected. Analysts advise consumers to compare configurations carefully and look for festive offers or exchange deals, as further price increases cannot be ruled out if component costs remain elevated.

Apple’s decision signals a broader shift in the technology industry, where the rapid expansion of AI is reshaping supply chains and influencing the prices consumers pay for everyday gadgets.

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