Tag: Apple

Apple Inc. may soon take its premium lineup a step further by introducing a new “Ultra” category for its devices, including the iPhone and MacBook.

According to recent reports, the company is exploring the idea of launching an “iPhone Ultra,” which could become its most advanced smartphone yet. This model is expected to stand above the current Pro versions, offering cutting-edge features and a fresh design.

One of the biggest highlights could be Apple’s first foldable iPhone. Unlike its traditional designs, this device may feature a screen that folds like a book, giving users a larger display in a compact form. If launched, it would mark a major shift for Apple, which has so far stayed away from foldable phones.

Alongside the iPhone, Apple is also said to be working on a “MacBook Ultra.” This could be a high-end laptop designed for users who want top performance and advanced features. Reports suggest it may come with an OLED display, offering brighter colors and better picture quality than current models.

There are also talks of possible touchscreen support in future MacBooks—something Apple has not offered so far. If this happens, it would be a significant change in how users interact with Mac devices.

The “Ultra” branding is not new for Apple. The company has already used it for products like the Apple Watch Ultra and its most powerful chips. Extending this label to iPhones and MacBooks would clearly position these devices as the most premium options in Apple’s lineup.

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Apple Inc. has announced that 30% of the materials used in its products shipped in 2025 came from recycled sources, the highest share recorded so far. The update was shared in its latest environmental report, highlighting steady progress toward its goal of becoming carbon neutral across its supply chain by 2030.

The company said it has significantly increased the use of recycled materials in core components, including cobalt in batteries, rare earth elements in magnets, and gold and tin in circuit boards. These changes are part of a broader effort to reduce reliance on newly mined resources.

Apple also confirmed that all product packaging is now fully fibre-based, eliminating plastic from boxes. This shift is aimed at making packaging easier to recycle and reducing overall environmental impact.

The company reported that its carbon emissions have fallen by more than 60% since 2015, even as production has grown globally. It also continues to expand recycling systems that recover materials from old devices, including automated disassembly robots.

Apple said the progress supports its “Apple 2030” plan to make all products carbon neutral within the next five years.

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Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26.5, offering new privacy features and laying the foundation for upcoming services. The update comes soon after iOS 26.4 and is currently available only for registered developers.

One major change is the reintroduction of end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging. This ensures that messages sent between iPhones and Android devices remain private and secure. The feature is enabled by default and represents a significant step toward safer cross-platform communication.

Another highlight is the groundwork for ads in Apple Maps. A new “Suggested Places” feature recommends nearby locations based on user activity and trends. While no ads are visible yet, Apple is preparing to allow businesses to promote listings within Maps search results later this year.

The beta also improves compatibility with third-party devices. Apple is testing features that allow non-Apple wearables, such as smartwatches and earbuds, to sync notifications and Live Activities with iPhones more smoothly. These updates are partly aimed at meeting European Union regulations and expanding device interoperability.

Despite these improvements, iOS 26.5 Beta 1 does not include any upgrades to Siri. Users hoping for AI enhancements will need to wait for a future release, likely iOS 27.

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Apple has unveiled plans to invest $400 million to expand its manufacturing footprint in the United States, bringing in new partners such as Bosch, Cirrus Logic, TDK and Qnity Electronics under its American Manufacturing Program. The investment, which will be made over the next few years, is aimed at increasing local production of key components used in Apple devices.

The initiative is part of Apple’s broader effort to make its supply chain more resilient by reducing dependence on overseas manufacturing. With global uncertainties and supply disruptions continuing to impact industries, the company is focusing on building stronger domestic capabilities for producing critical technologies.

Under the expanded program, Apple will work with Bosch and other partners to manufacture sensing components within the US. Cirrus Logic will collaborate with semiconductor manufacturer GlobalFoundries to develop advanced chips that power features like Face ID. These efforts are expected to bring more high-tech production processes to the country.

In addition, Japan-based TDK plans to begin manufacturing sensors in the United States instead of relying entirely on overseas facilities. Qnity Electronics will contribute materials essential for semiconductor and artificial intelligence technologies, further supporting Apple’s growing ecosystem.

Apple said the investment will help improve supply chain stability while also contributing to job creation and technological development in the US. The move builds on the company’s earlier commitment to significantly increase its spending on American manufacturing and innovation.

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