We agree with Crackberry Kevin getting this and WMExperts blogging about it, and you know how crazy that makes us...
Why so? Google is playing a cagy game of supplying services to all major platforms while simultaneously deploying their own smartphone OS with Android, browser with Chrome, and likely in the labs, computing OS with gLinux. Gotta keep the existing big players happy; gotta have their own backups in place just in case same big players get unhappy (or unruly). Smart strategy, equal parts Microsoft and Apple.
And it will benefit iPhone users in the short term, perhaps more than any other platform base. See, we already get helpful Google web services, and maybe some Chrome innovation will filter down to WebKit and get picked up for MobileSafari (minus the troubling security and privacy issues, of course). But here's the thing: The iPhone didn't get location aware Google Maps until firmware 1.1.3 was shown off at Macworld 2008, which if memory serves was after other smartphone platforms announced it (and after people complained about the iPhone not having it). Heck, other smartphones had Google Maps before there was an iPhone. But their UE (User Experience) wasn't very good. Early soviet design comes to mind.
In his joint talk with Bill Gates at D All Things Digital, Steve Jobs talked about the iPhone Maps App, and how it "blew away" every other maps app. And he was right. If you haven't watched the video above, watch it. Forget Street-View and look at the UE. Yes, Blackberry users really have to experience that only a daily -- or hourly -- basis. Then tap open Google Maps on the iPhone. Now imagine that with Street-View carefully, expertly -- beautifully integrated, because that's likely the next addition to that particular app.
Are we jealous? For now, you bet. But we're also grateful to our Crackberrian and WinMobile friends for putting up with that kludge until Apple wraps it up the way it's meant to be wrapped -- in just the precisely proper Jobs'-approved shade of gray, no doubt.
(That is, unless they keep the good stuff for Android from now on...)
$400,000 in undeclared Apple Watches & AirPods Pro seized by Indian customs
Customs agents at the international airport in Mumbai seized more than $400,000-worth of Apple gear as it made its way into the country. None of the 160 Apple Watches and 600 pairs of AirPods Pro had been declared and are now all sat in a warehouse.
Mark Ronson talks Apple TV+, Amy Winehouse, and more in Variety interview
Apple TV+ will gain a new music show on July 30 when Watch the Sound with Mark Ronson lands on Apple's streaming services. Ronson, a DJ, songwriter, producer, and more will be the man interviewing other huge musical personalities like Dave Grohl and Paul McCartney — and he's been talking to Variety about a whole host of things.
Apple is no longer signing iOS 14.6 — it's iOS 14.7, 14.7.1 or nothing now
Apple is no longer signing iOS 14.6, preventing users from installing it. As a result, anyone restoring an iPhone can now only install iOS 14.7 or iOS 14.7.1 on their device.
Automate your home with the best HomeKit smart plugs out there
If you're new to home automation, a smart plug is a great first step in building out your connected home. You can simply plug it in and go. Here's our guide to the best smart plugs for HomeKit.