Apple Inc said it will now switch to its own chips for Mac computers. The move will end the company's reliance on Intel Corp to supply processors for its flagship laptops and desktop.

Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said it marked the beginning of a major new era for a product line that powered the company’s rise in the 1980s and its resurgence in the late 1990s.

Cook said the first of the new Mac computers will be shipping by the end of the year and that the change would help lead to "a common architecture for all of our products."

Apple Inc further said it would let software developers “challenge” the guidelines that govern its app review process and will end its practice of blocking routine bug fixes over minor violations. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-unveils-ios-14-with-redesigned-home-screen-and-host-of-features-307862">Also Read:&nbsp;Apple unveils iOS 14 with redesigned home screen and host of features</a>

Apple’s App Store is the only way for developers to distribute their software to consumers’ iPhones and iPads. Apple keeps between 15 per cent and 30 per cent of revenues generated by developers in the store, making it a key part of its growth strategy as the pace of iPhone upgrades has slowed.

At the event, Apple also previewed iOS 14 which will work on the iPhone 6S and up just like iOS 13.. According to Apple, iOS 14 will be available for everyone this fall with a public beta for users in July.&nbsp;

iOS 14, Apple claimed, the biggest update ever to Home Screen pages with redesigned widgets and the App Library. 
 
(With inputs from Reuters)

Apple Inc said it will now switch to its own chips for Mac computers. The move will end the company's reliance on Intel Corp to supply processors for its flagship laptops and desktop.

Apple Inc said it will now switch to its own chips for Mac computers. The move will end the company's reliance on Intel Corp to supply processors for its flagship laptops and desktop. Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said it marked the beginning of a major new era for a product line that powered the company’s rise in the 1980s and its resurgence in the late 1990s. Cook said the first of the new Mac computers will be shipping by the end of the year and that the change would help lead to "a common architecture for all of our products." Apple Inc further said it would let software developers “challenge” the guidelines that govern its app review process and will end its practice of blocking routine bug fixes over minor violations. Also Read: Apple unveils iOS 14 with redesigned home screen and host of features Apple’s App Store is the only way for developers to distribute their software to consumers’ iPhones and iPads. Apple keeps between 15 per cent and 30 per cent of revenues generated by developers in the store, making it a key part of its growth strategy as the pace of iPhone upgrades has slowed. At the event, Apple also previewed iOS 14 which will work on the iPhone 6S and up just like iOS 13.. According to Apple, iOS 14 will be available for everyone this fall with a public beta for users in July. iOS 14, Apple claimed, the biggest update ever to Home Screen pages with redesigned widgets and the App Library. (With inputs from Reuters)

Apple breaks up with Intel, switches to its own chips for Mac computers

Britain on Thursday said it would switch to Apple and Google technology for its test-and-trace app, ditching its current system in a U-turn for the troubled programme.

The government has been forced to abandon a centralised coronavirus contact-tracing app after spending three months and millions of pounds on technology that experts had repeatedly warned would not work.

In an embarrassing U-turn, Matt Hancock said the NHS would switch to an alternative designed by the US tech companies Apple and&nbsp;Google, which is months away from being ready.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-breakthrough-uk-to-begin-administering-steroid-dexamethasone-to-covid-19-patients-306389">After breakthrough, UK to begin administering steroid dexamethasone to COVID-19 patients</a>

The test-and-trace programme is seen as a key measure to reopen the country, but has also been dogged by criticism after the nationwide roll-out of a National Health Service (NHS)-developed smartphone app slipped from the last month towards the end of the year.

At the Downing Street briefing, the health secretary said the government would not “put a date” on when the new app may be launched, although officials conceded it was likely to be in the autumn or winter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-trial-on-humans-starts-in-uk-294384">COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK</a>

The idea behind the NHS app was that it could trace anybody that a person with coronavirus symptoms came into close contact with by using the&nbsp;Bluetooth&nbsp;connectivity on a standard smartphone, and notify them to self-isolate.

Ministers had insisted on using a centralised version of the untested technology in which anonymised data from people who reported feeling ill was held in an NHS database to enable better tracing and data analysis. This version was not supported by&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;and Google.

Apple and Google have been in talks with Britain about the technology, which uses a decentralised model. The firms have barred authorities using their technology from collecting GPS location data or requiring users to enter personal data.

Apple and Google's model has attracted the interest of over 20 countries, though some of the restrictions they have imposed have frustrated governments as the world's top two smartphone makers undercut the technology's usefulness by prioritising user privacy.

Britain on Thursday said it would switch to Apple and Google technology for its test-and-trace app, ditching its current system in a U-turn for the troubled programme.

Britain on Thursday said it would switch to Apple and Google technology for its test-and-trace app, ditching its current system in a U-turn for the troubled programme. The government has been forced to abandon a centralised coronavirus contact-tracing app after spending three months and millions of pounds on technology that experts had repeatedly warned would not work. In an embarrassing U-turn, Matt Hancock said the NHS would switch to an alternative designed by the US tech companies Apple and Google, which is months away from being ready. Also read: After breakthrough, UK to begin administering steroid dexamethasone to COVID-19 patients The test-and-trace programme is seen as a key measure to reopen the country, but has also been dogged by criticism after the nationwide roll-out of a National Health Service (NHS)-developed smartphone app slipped from the last month towards the end of the year. At the Downing Street briefing, the health secretary said the government would not “put a date” on when the new app may be launched, although officials conceded it was likely to be in the autumn or winter. Also read: COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK The idea behind the NHS app was that it could trace anybody that a person with coronavirus symptoms came into close contact with by using the Bluetooth connectivity on a standard smartphone, and notify them to self-isolate. Ministers had insisted on using a centralised version of the untested technology in which anonymised data from people who reported feeling ill was held in an NHS database to enable better tracing and data analysis. This version was not supported by Apple and Google. Apple and Google have been in talks with Britain about the technology, which uses a decentralised model. The firms have barred authorities using their technology from collecting GPS location data or requiring users to enter personal data. Apple and Google's model has attracted the interest of over 20 countries, though some of the restrictions they have imposed have frustrated governments as the world's top two smartphone makers undercut the technology's usefulness by prioritising user privacy.

UK abandons contact tracing app; switches to Apple and Google model

The British government will switch to Apple and Google technology for its test-and-trace app, ditching its current system in a U-turn for the troubled programme.

According to a BBC report, UK's test-and-trace programme is seen as a key measure to reopen the country, but has also been dogged by criticism after the nationwide roll-out of a National Health Service (NHS)-developed smartphone app slipped from the last month towards the end of the year.

The head of the UK's programme said last month a centralised app of the kind Britain had been developing can potentially give more insight into outbreaks of COVID-19, but offers less privacy than decentralised rivals.

Apple and Google have been in talks with Britain about the technology, which uses a decentralised model. The firms have barred authorities using their technology from collecting GPS location data or requiring users to enter personal data.

Apple and Google's model has attracted the interest of over 20 countries, though some of the restrictions they have imposed have frustrated governments as the world's top two smartphone makers undercut the technology's usefulness by prioritising user privacy.

The current UK app is being tested on the Isle of Wight, off the southern coast of England.

Ministers have admitted to technical issues with the app, which meant that it was not ready for use in time for the launch of England's test and trace system on May 28.

 
&nbsp;

The British government will switch to Apple and Google technology for its test-and-trace app, ditching its current system in a U-turn for the troubled programme.

The British government will switch to Apple and Google technology for its test-and-trace app, ditching its current system in a U-turn for the troubled programme. According to a BBC report, UK's test-and-trace programme is seen as a key measure to reopen the country, but has also been dogged by criticism after the nationwide roll-out of a National Health Service (NHS)-developed smartphone app slipped from the last month towards the end of the year. The head of the UK's programme said last month a centralised app of the kind Britain had been developing can potentially give more insight into outbreaks of COVID-19, but offers less privacy than decentralised rivals. Apple and Google have been in talks with Britain about the technology, which uses a decentralised model. The firms have barred authorities using their technology from collecting GPS location data or requiring users to enter personal data. Apple and Google's model has attracted the interest of over 20 countries, though some of the restrictions they have imposed have frustrated governments as the world's top two smartphone makers undercut the technology's usefulness by prioritising user privacy. The current UK app is being tested on the Isle of Wight, off the southern coast of England. Ministers have admitted to technical issues with the app, which meant that it was not ready for use in time for the launch of England's test and trace system on May 28.

UK changes stand, to now use Google-Apple model for coronavirus tracing app

Apple on Tuesday found itself the target of two EU antitrust investigations into its App Store and Apple Pay as regulators said its terms and conditions and restrictions may violate the bloc's competition rules.

The European Commission said one probe will look into the mandatory use of Apple's proprietary in-app purchase system and restrictions on developers' ability to inform iPhone and iPad users of other cheaper purchasing possibilities outside of apps.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/business-economy/apple-backed-study-sheds-light-on-physical-sales-through-app-store-306156" hreflang="en">Apple-backed study sheds light on physical sales through App Store</a>

The case was triggered by a complaint from Swedish music streaming service Spotify last year. Another smaller rival also filed a similar grievance related to e-books and audiobooks in March this year.

"It appears that Apple obtained a 'gatekeeper' role when it comes to the distribution of apps and content to users of Apple's popular devices," European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/science/apple-youtube-unveil-100-million-funds-to-support-racial-justice-amid-protests-305268" hreflang="en">Apple, YouTube unveil $100 million funds to support racial justice amid protests</a>

The second case focuses on Apple's terms and conditions on how Apple Pay should be used in merchants' apps and websites, and also the company's refusal to allow rivals access to the payment system.

Launched in 2014, Apple Pay marked the company's diversification from sales of devices like iPhones and iPads.

Apple on Tuesday found itself the target of two EU antitrust investigations into its App Store and Apple Pay as regulators said its terms and conditions and restrictions may violate the bloc's competition rules.

Apple on Tuesday found itself the target of two EU antitrust investigations into its App Store and Apple Pay as regulators said its terms and conditions and restrictions may violate the bloc's competition rules. The European Commission said one probe will look into the mandatory use of Apple's proprietary in-app purchase system and restrictions on developers' ability to inform iPhone and iPad users of other cheaper purchasing possibilities outside of apps. Also read: Apple-backed study sheds light on physical sales through App Store The case was triggered by a complaint from Swedish music streaming service Spotify last year. Another smaller rival also filed a similar grievance related to e-books and audiobooks in March this year. "It appears that Apple obtained a 'gatekeeper' role when it comes to the distribution of apps and content to users of Apple's popular devices," European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said in a statement. Also read: Apple, YouTube unveil $100 million funds to support racial justice amid protests The second case focuses on Apple's terms and conditions on how Apple Pay should be used in merchants' apps and websites, and also the company's refusal to allow rivals access to the payment system. Launched in 2014, Apple Pay marked the company's diversification from sales of devices like iPhones and iPads.

EU antitrust regulators to investigate Apple's App Store, Apple Pay

Apple Inc&nbsp;said on Thursday it will increase spending with black-owned suppliers as part of a $100 million racial equity and justice initiative, while Google-owned&nbsp;YouTube said it will spend $100 million to fund black artists.

The efforts join a wave of actions by big companies, including banks and retailers, aiming to show support for the black community as recent protests in the United States and elsewhere call attention to longstanding discrimination against African Americans.

The protests followed the May 25 death of George Floyd, a black man, while detained by Minneapolis police.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/do-black-lives-matter-yes-say-siri-alexa-and-google-assistant-305068">Do black lives matter? Yes, say Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant</a>

Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook in a video posted to Twitter said the iPhone maker seeks to increase minority representation among the firms it does business with.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The unfinished work of racial justice and equality call us all to account. Things must change, and Apple's committed to being a force for that change. Today, I'm proud to announce Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, with a $100 million commitment. <a href="https://t.co/AoYafq2xlp">pic.twitter.com/AoYafq2xlp</a>
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) <a href="https://twitter.com/tim_cook/status/1271113929754685441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Other moves will include programs to foster black application developers and new initiatives to increase diversity and inclusion within Apple, Cook said.

YouTube Chief Executive Susan Wojcicki said in a blog post the video service would spend $100 million over multiple years on "amplifying and developing the voices of black creators and artists and their stories."

The fund's first video project, "Bear Witness, Take Action," will premiere on YouTube at 6 p.m. ET Saturday, Wojcicki said.

Apple Inc said on Thursday it will increase spending with black-owned suppliers as part of a $100 million racial equity and justice initiative, while Google-owned YouTube said it will spend $100 million to fund black artists.

Apple Inc said on Thursday it will increase spending with black-owned suppliers as part of a $100 million racial equity and justice initiative, while Google-owned YouTube said it will spend $100 million to fund black artists. The efforts join a wave of actions by big companies, including banks and retailers, aiming to show support for the black community as recent protests in the United States and elsewhere call attention to longstanding discrimination against African Americans. The protests followed the May 25 death of George Floyd, a black man, while detained by Minneapolis police. Also read: Do black lives matter? Yes, say Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook in a video posted to Twitter said the iPhone maker seeks to increase minority representation among the firms it does business with. The unfinished work of racial justice and equality call us all to account. Things must change, and Apple's committed to being a force for that change. Today, I'm proud to announce Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, with a $100 million commitment. pic.twitter.com/AoYafq2xlp — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) June 11, 2020 × Other moves will include programs to foster black application developers and new initiatives to increase diversity and inclusion within Apple, Cook said. YouTube Chief Executive Susan Wojcicki said in a blog post the video service would spend $100 million over multiple years on "amplifying and developing the voices of black creators and artists and their stories." The fund's first video project, "Bear Witness, Take Action," will premiere on YouTube at 6 p.m. ET Saturday, Wojcicki said.

Apple, YouTube unveil $100 million funds to support racial justice amid protests

The drug kingpin Pablo Escobar's brother,&nbsp;Roberto Escobar, is apparently&nbsp;suing the tech giant for $2.6bn (£2.1bn)

Roberto has claimed that someone hacked into his iPhoneX and found out his address, which he is blaming on Apple.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/apple-secures-deal-for-martin-scorseses-next-film-starring-leonardo-dicaprio-robert-de-niro-301445">Also read: Apple secures deal for Martin Scorsese's next film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro</a>

According to reports, he has claimed that someone found his address through FaceTime and found out his address.&nbsp;

He also said that the hackers sent him life-threatening messages.

Escobar has decided to sue Apple for this alleged hacking activity, as he claims that while buying the phone, an Apple employee had assured Escobar that iPhoneX is the most secure phone in the market. He has demanded damages for&nbsp;breach of contract, misrepresentation and emotional distress, as the hacking has forced him into hiding.

This is not the first time Escobar has talked about suing Apple.&nbsp;Earlier this year, when he had launched a foldable gold unbreakable smartphone, he had talked about how he had&nbsp;hopes of "beating Apple" and revealed his lawyers were building a "$30bn class-action lawsuit" against the company for "cheating the people and selling worthless phones".

There has been no comment from Apple yet.

The drug kingpin Pablo Escobar's brother, Roberto Escobar, is apparently suing the tech giant for $2.6bn (£2.1bn) Roberto has claimed that someone hacked into his iPhoneX and found out his address, which he is blaming on Apple.

The drug kingpin Pablo Escobar's brother, Roberto Escobar, is apparently suing the tech giant for $2.6bn (£2.1bn) Roberto has claimed that someone hacked into his iPhoneX and found out his address, which he is blaming on Apple. Also read: Apple secures deal for Martin Scorsese's next film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro According to reports, he has claimed that someone found his address through FaceTime and found out his address. He also said that the hackers sent him life-threatening messages. Escobar has decided to sue Apple for this alleged hacking activity, as he claims that while buying the phone, an Apple employee had assured Escobar that iPhoneX is the most secure phone in the market. He has demanded damages for breach of contract, misrepresentation and emotional distress, as the hacking has forced him into hiding. This is not the first time Escobar has talked about suing Apple. Earlier this year, when he had launched a foldable gold unbreakable smartphone, he had talked about how he had hopes of "beating Apple" and revealed his lawyers were building a "$30bn class-action lawsuit" against the company for "cheating the people and selling worthless phones". There has been no comment from Apple yet.

Pablo Escobar's brother sues Apple over hacking concerns

TikTok's rankings in India had dropped down to 1.2 in the past few weeks due to a controversy about the content. However, after a cleanup drive by Google, the ratings are back to 4.4 stars now.

Google has brushed off this sudden rise in ratings as a usual clean-up, and stated that the company takes a corrective action to remove inappropriate ratings and comments which are considered to be spam, offensive or abusive. “Play Store ratings enable users to provide helpful feedback about their experience with apps and content, for the benefit of others to make informed decisions,” a Google spokesperson said in a statement to a media organization.

<a href="&lt;iframe scrolling=&quot;no&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allow=&quot;autoplay; fullscreen&quot; src=&quot;https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%3D%3D&quot; width =&quot;640&quot; height=&quot;360&quot;&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;">Also watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Is TikTok safe for kids?</a>

The mass critique started due to&nbsp;a video uploaded by&nbsp;Faizal Siddiqui, which was considered to be insensitive and morally incorrect. people also accused the TikTok star of promoting acid attacks, which are morally and legally incorrect.

While the experts observed a massive drop in the ratings and an increase in the one-star ratings, those one-star ratings and hate comments cannot be seen on the Google Play Store anymore.

It is also believed that Google did actually play by the rules and removed the comments and ratings that were born out of hatred for the app, as according to Play Store guidelines, users are not allowed to manipulate the ratings of an app.

However, the mass clean-up drive seems to have happened only in Google Play Store, as Apple store still has the bad ratings and disapproving comments. There was not even a massive drop in the ratings for iOS users as the ratings only dropped down to 3.4 from a 3.5.

The Chinese video-content app has been facing backlash in India after masses disagreed with the content posted by CarryMinati and&nbsp;Faizal Siddiqui

TikTok's rankings in India had dropped down to 1.2 in the past few weeks due to a controversy about the content. However, after a cleanup drive by Google, the ratings are back to 4.

TikTok's rankings in India had dropped down to 1.2 in the past few weeks due to a controversy about the content. However, after a cleanup drive by Google, the ratings are back to 4.4 stars now. Google has brushed off this sudden rise in ratings as a usual clean-up, and stated that the company takes a corrective action to remove inappropriate ratings and comments which are considered to be spam, offensive or abusive. “Play Store ratings enable users to provide helpful feedback about their experience with apps and content, for the benefit of others to make informed decisions,” a Google spokesperson said in a statement to a media organization. Also watch: Gravitas: Is TikTok safe for kids? The mass critique started due to a video uploaded by Faizal Siddiqui, which was considered to be insensitive and morally incorrect. people also accused the TikTok star of promoting acid attacks, which are morally and legally incorrect. While the experts observed a massive drop in the ratings and an increase in the one-star ratings, those one-star ratings and hate comments cannot be seen on the Google Play Store anymore. It is also believed that Google did actually play by the rules and removed the comments and ratings that were born out of hatred for the app, as according to Play Store guidelines, users are not allowed to manipulate the ratings of an app. However, the mass clean-up drive seems to have happened only in Google Play Store, as Apple store still has the bad ratings and disapproving comments. There was not even a massive drop in the ratings for iOS users as the ratings only dropped down to 3.4 from a 3.5. The Chinese video-content app has been facing backlash in India after masses disagreed with the content posted by CarryMinati and Faizal Siddiqui

TikTok ratings soar high as Google cleans up anti-TikTok comments

Apple and Google have released a software tool that will make it possible for nations to release coronavirus contact-tracing apps.

Together, the tech giants rolled out a&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;exposure notification system, essentially a unified programming interface that will allow public&nbsp;health&nbsp;departments to create their own contact tracing applications.

Contact-tracing apps are designed to automatically log when two people come into proximity to each other for a significant amount of time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/scientists-release-app-to-track-covid-19-symptoms-inform-users-about-hot-spots-296975" hreflang="en">Scientists release app to track COVID-19 symptoms, inform users about hot spots</a>

If one is later diagnosed with the coronavirus, the other can be given an alert, which might suggest they self-isolate and/or request a medical test of their own.

The software relies on Bluetooth wireless technology to detect when someone who downloaded the app has spent time near another app user who later tests positive for the virus.

It is much safer in comparison to other applications&nbsp;as it does not use&nbsp;Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.

"Starting today, our Exposure Notifications technology is available to public health agencies on both iOS and Android," Apple and Google said in a statement.

"Today, this technology is in the hands of public health agencies across the world who will take the lead and we will continue to support their efforts."

The companies had&nbsp;announced the unprecedented collaboration&nbsp;to leverage their technology to help trace and contain the spread of coronavirus last month, and say 22 countries and several US states are already planning to build voluntary phone apps using their software.

Apple and Google have released a software tool that will make it possible for nations to release coronavirus contact-tracing apps. Together, the tech giants rolled out a COVID-19 exposure notification system, essentially a unified programming interface that will allow public health departments to create their own contact tracing applications.

Apple and Google have released a software tool that will make it possible for nations to release coronavirus contact-tracing apps. Together, the tech giants rolled out a COVID-19 exposure notification system, essentially a unified programming interface that will allow public health departments to create their own contact tracing applications. Contact-tracing apps are designed to automatically log when two people come into proximity to each other for a significant amount of time. Also read: Scientists release app to track COVID-19 symptoms, inform users about hot spots If one is later diagnosed with the coronavirus, the other can be given an alert, which might suggest they self-isolate and/or request a medical test of their own. The software relies on Bluetooth wireless technology to detect when someone who downloaded the app has spent time near another app user who later tests positive for the virus. It is much safer in comparison to other applications as it does not use Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. "Starting today, our Exposure Notifications technology is available to public health agencies on both iOS and Android," Apple and Google said in a statement. "Today, this technology is in the hands of public health agencies across the world who will take the lead and we will continue to support their efforts." The companies had announced the unprecedented collaboration to leverage their technology to help trace and contain the spread of coronavirus last month, and say 22 countries and several US states are already planning to build voluntary phone apps using their software.

Apple and Google launch digital COVID-19 contact tracing system

China is ready to take a series of countermeasures against the&nbsp;plan of the United States to block shipments of semiconductors to Chinese telecom firm Huawei, including putting US&nbsp;companies on an "unreliable entity list".

It will launch&nbsp;investigations and imposing restrictions on us companies such as Apple, and halting purchase of Boeing airplanes, according to&nbsp;Chinese state media.

The potential move, the second time within two days that China has released a message of hitting back against the US, also the very first time government source noted to target specific US&nbsp;companies, is a result of a spat between the two countries regarding the origin of the deadly coronavirus.

Both US and China are&nbsp;mulling punitive countermeasures against each other&nbsp;over COVID-19 lawsuits due to the abuse of litigation.

China's latest moves indicate a toe-to-toe strategy between the world's two largest economies, from political to economic ends, being in full play, experts said.

The Trump administration on Friday moved to block shipments of semiconductors to Huawei from global chipmakers.

The US&nbsp;commerce department said it was amending an export rule and the entity list to "strategically target Huawei's acquisition of semiconductors that are the direct product of certain US software and technology," according to a statement on its website.

''China will take forceful countermeasures to protect its own legitimate rights," if the US&nbsp;moves forward with the plan to change its rules and bar essential suppliers of chips, including Taiwan-based TSMC, from selling chips to Huawei, the source told the Chinese state media's channel Global Times.

China is ready to take a series of countermeasures against the plan of the United States to block shipments of semiconductors to Chinese telecom firm Huawei, including putting US companies on an "unreliable entity list".

China is ready to take a series of countermeasures against the plan of the United States to block shipments of semiconductors to Chinese telecom firm Huawei, including putting US companies on an "unreliable entity list". It will launch investigations and imposing restrictions on us companies such as Apple, and halting purchase of Boeing airplanes, according to Chinese state media. The potential move, the second time within two days that China has released a message of hitting back against the US, also the very first time government source noted to target specific US companies, is a result of a spat between the two countries regarding the origin of the deadly coronavirus. Both US and China are mulling punitive countermeasures against each other over COVID-19 lawsuits due to the abuse of litigation. China's latest moves indicate a toe-to-toe strategy between the world's two largest economies, from political to economic ends, being in full play, experts said. The Trump administration on Friday moved to block shipments of semiconductors to Huawei from global chipmakers. The US commerce department said it was amending an export rule and the entity list to "strategically target Huawei's acquisition of semiconductors that are the direct product of certain US software and technology," according to a statement on its website. ''China will take forceful countermeasures to protect its own legitimate rights," if the US moves forward with the plan to change its rules and bar essential suppliers of chips, including Taiwan-based TSMC, from selling chips to Huawei, the source told the Chinese state media's channel Global Times.

China all set to make its biggest counterattack against US

Area F2, developed by Ejoy and Qookka Games, a game that has been gaining quite a lot of attention recently has landed itself into trouble.

The game is allegedly a copy of&nbsp;Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege, developed by Ubisoft Montreal. Following this allegation, Ubisoft asked Google and Apple to remove Area F2 from their respective online&nbsp;stores.

However, Apple and Google have denied the request. Ubisoft, in return, has filed a lawsuit against both the companies in Los Angeles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-apple-eyes-shift-to-india-from-china-smartphone-manufacturing-to-get-major-boost-298304">Also read:&nbsp;As Apple eyes shift to India from China, smartphone manufacturing to get major boost</a>

Ubisoft claims that the two companies are selling a product that violates the copyright laws of Rainbow Six Siege. While the allegation hasn't been proved yet, it will be illegal if Ubisoft proves that the game has been copied. Ubisoft claims that the&nbsp;game has copied&nbsp;“virtually every aspect” of Rainbow Six Siege, and is taking undue advantage of their game.

The players and customers, too, have managed to spot various similarities between the two games online.&nbsp;

A lot of questions have now been raised about this lawsuit. Interestingly, Ubisoft has filed a lawsuit against the two companies hosting the games on their platforms, but not against the developers and owners of the game. If proven wrong, Apple and Google will lose all earning rights and money from this game. The developers,&nbsp;Ejoy and Qookka Games, on the other hand will only have to pay the copyright fee.

Area F2, developed by Ejoy and Qookka Games, a game that has been gaining quite a lot of attention recently has landed itself into trouble. The game is allegedly a copy of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege, developed by Ubisoft Montreal.

Area F2, developed by Ejoy and Qookka Games, a game that has been gaining quite a lot of attention recently has landed itself into trouble. The game is allegedly a copy of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege, developed by Ubisoft Montreal. Following this allegation, Ubisoft asked Google and Apple to remove Area F2 from their respective online stores. However, Apple and Google have denied the request. Ubisoft, in return, has filed a lawsuit against both the companies in Los Angeles. Also read: As Apple eyes shift to India from China, smartphone manufacturing to get major boost Ubisoft claims that the two companies are selling a product that violates the copyright laws of Rainbow Six Siege. While the allegation hasn't been proved yet, it will be illegal if Ubisoft proves that the game has been copied. Ubisoft claims that the game has copied “virtually every aspect” of Rainbow Six Siege, and is taking undue advantage of their game. The players and customers, too, have managed to spot various similarities between the two games online. A lot of questions have now been raised about this lawsuit. Interestingly, Ubisoft has filed a lawsuit against the two companies hosting the games on their platforms, but not against the developers and owners of the game. If proven wrong, Apple and Google will lose all earning rights and money from this game. The developers, Ejoy and Qookka Games, on the other hand will only have to pay the copyright fee.

Google and Apple sued by Ubisoft for selling a copied game

China's foreign ministry said on Saturday the United States needed to stop the "unreasonable suppression" of Chinese companies like&nbsp;Huawei, and a Chinese newspaper said the government was ready to retaliate against Washington.

The Trump administration on Friday moved to block global chip supplies to blacklisted telecoms equipment company&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;Technologies, spurring fears of Chinese retaliation and hammering shares of US&nbsp;producers of chipmaking equipment.

China will firmly defend its companies' legal rights, the foreign ministry said in a statement in response to Reuters' questions on whether Beijing would take retaliatory measures against the United States.

China's Global Times newspaper on Saturday quoted a source close to the Chinese government as saying that Beijing was ready to take a series of countermeasures against the United States, such as putting US&nbsp;companies on an "unreliable entity list" and imposing restrictions on US&nbsp;companies such as Apple Inc, Cisco Systems Inc and Qualcomm Inc.

The newspaper, published by the People's Daily, the official newspaper of China's ruling Communist Party, said the source also mentioned halting the purchase of Boeing Co airplanes.

"China will take forceful countermeasures to protect its own legitimate rights" if the United States moves forward with the plan to change rules and bar essential suppliers of chips, including Taiwan-based TSMC, from selling chips to&nbsp;Huawei, the Global Times quoted the source as saying.

Tensions between the world's two largest economies have spiked in recent weeks, with officials on both sides suggesting a hard-won deal that defused a bitter 18-month trade war could be abandoned months after it was signed in January.

In addition to the move on&nbsp;Huawei, the US&nbsp;Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, which oversees billions in federal retirement dollars, this week also said it would indefinitely delay plans to invest in some Chinese companies that are under scrutiny in Washington.

China's foreign ministry said on Saturday the United States needed to stop the "unreasonable suppression" of Chinese companies like Huawei, and a Chinese newspaper said the government was ready to retaliate against Washington.

China's foreign ministry said on Saturday the United States needed to stop the "unreasonable suppression" of Chinese companies like Huawei, and a Chinese newspaper said the government was ready to retaliate against Washington. The Trump administration on Friday moved to block global chip supplies to blacklisted telecoms equipment company Huawei Technologies, spurring fears of Chinese retaliation and hammering shares of US producers of chipmaking equipment. China will firmly defend its companies' legal rights, the foreign ministry said in a statement in response to Reuters' questions on whether Beijing would take retaliatory measures against the United States. China's Global Times newspaper on Saturday quoted a source close to the Chinese government as saying that Beijing was ready to take a series of countermeasures against the United States, such as putting US companies on an "unreliable entity list" and imposing restrictions on US companies such as Apple Inc, Cisco Systems Inc and Qualcomm Inc. The newspaper, published by the People's Daily, the official newspaper of China's ruling Communist Party, said the source also mentioned halting the purchase of Boeing Co airplanes. "China will take forceful countermeasures to protect its own legitimate rights" if the United States moves forward with the plan to change rules and bar essential suppliers of chips, including Taiwan-based TSMC, from selling chips to Huawei, the Global Times quoted the source as saying. Tensions between the world's two largest economies have spiked in recent weeks, with officials on both sides suggesting a hard-won deal that defused a bitter 18-month trade war could be abandoned months after it was signed in January. In addition to the move on Huawei, the US Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, which oversees billions in federal retirement dollars, this week also said it would indefinitely delay plans to invest in some Chinese companies that are under scrutiny in Washington.

China asks United States to stop 'unreasonable suppression' of Huawei

Tech behemoth Apple's is weighing to shift majority of its&nbsp;manufacturing from China to India.

The iPhone maker is considering producing up to $40 billion worth of smartphones over the next five years through manufacturers Wistron and Foxconn, as per&nbsp;a government official. This is a fifth of its production capacity&nbsp;and can aid India's recovery.

The company is looking&nbsp;to take advantage of the country's improved policy regime.

The Indian government introduced a production-linked incentive scheme last month. A&nbsp;move aimed at encouraging electronics manufacturers to set shop on Indian soil.

This came after PM&nbsp;Modi met global phone-makers, including Apple&nbsp;in December last year.

Apple is likely to be one of the first to make the definitive move. The tech giant&nbsp;produces only a couple of models of the iPhone in India as of now.

These include the iPhone 7 and iPhone XR, which are made by contract manufacturers Foxconn and Wistron.

Apple's manufacturing in India is worth only half a billion dollars at the moment. However, that could all change the near future because Apple wants to scale up its production capacities in the country dramatically.

It is looking to use India as a base to manufacture smartphones that will be exported worldwide.

Apple has plans of exporting India-made products worth 40 billion dollars in the next five&nbsp;years. If the company is able to manage that then it would become India's largest exporter.

The company also keen on establishing a retail base in India. Its sales in India has grown to around 1.5 billion dollars.

The premium smartphone segment in India is dominated by iPhones with over 60 per cent&nbsp;marketshare.

However, there are&nbsp;Apple stores in India. Its&nbsp;products are sold only through authorised re-sellers.&nbsp;This can&nbsp;change in the next year. Apple has been enticed by India's policy relaxation.

India had eased local sourcing norms for foreign retailers late last year. Apple had thanked the Indian government then and said it looked forward to the company's first&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;store.

In February this year, Apple's CEO&nbsp;Tim Cook confirmed that retail operations in India will begin in 2021.

India is the next big focus for Apple in both&nbsp;manufacturing and&nbsp;marketing.

China's loss is seemingly India's gain. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tech behemoth Apple's is weighing to shift majority of its manufacturing from China to India. The iPhone maker is considering producing up to $40 billion worth of smartphones over the next five years through manufacturers Wistron and Foxconn, as per a government official.

Tech behemoth Apple's is weighing to shift majority of its manufacturing from China to India. The iPhone maker is considering producing up to $40 billion worth of smartphones over the next five years through manufacturers Wistron and Foxconn, as per a government official. This is a fifth of its production capacity and can aid India's recovery. The company is looking to take advantage of the country's improved policy regime. The Indian government introduced a production-linked incentive scheme last month. A move aimed at encouraging electronics manufacturers to set shop on Indian soil. This came after PM Modi met global phone-makers, including Apple in December last year. Apple is likely to be one of the first to make the definitive move. The tech giant produces only a couple of models of the iPhone in India as of now. These include the iPhone 7 and iPhone XR, which are made by contract manufacturers Foxconn and Wistron. Apple's manufacturing in India is worth only half a billion dollars at the moment. However, that could all change the near future because Apple wants to scale up its production capacities in the country dramatically. It is looking to use India as a base to manufacture smartphones that will be exported worldwide. Apple has plans of exporting India-made products worth 40 billion dollars in the next five years. If the company is able to manage that then it would become India's largest exporter. The company also keen on establishing a retail base in India. Its sales in India has grown to around 1.5 billion dollars. The premium smartphone segment in India is dominated by iPhones with over 60 per cent marketshare. However, there are Apple stores in India. Its products are sold only through authorised re-sellers. This can change in the next year. Apple has been enticed by India's policy relaxation. India had eased local sourcing norms for foreign retailers late last year. Apple had thanked the Indian government then and said it looked forward to the company's first Indian store. In February this year, Apple's CEO Tim Cook confirmed that retail operations in India will begin in 2021. India is the next big focus for Apple in both manufacturing and marketing. China's loss is seemingly India's gain.

As Apple eyes shift to India from China, smartphone manufacturing to get major boost

The company said it will open “some” stores in Alabama, Alaska, Idaho and South Carolina. Apple has two stores in both South Carolina and Alabama but did not say which would open.

Apple to reopen some retail stores in US next week

Apple and Google have decided to ban location-tracking on contact-tracing apps. The tech giants say they are trying to protect user privacy. But, is this a case of the pot calling the kettle black?

Gravitas: Apple, Google ban GPS tracking in Covid-19 tracking apps

Apple and Google are two of the world's most powerful tech companies. Both giants have decided to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps. They made this announcement together and this is a major decision.

Apple and Google are two of the world's most powerful tech companies. Both giants have decided to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps. They made this announcement together and this is a major decision. One that affects almost 99 per cent of smartphone users in the world. Also read: Tweet once again gets Elon Musk into trouble as Tesla loses $14 billion Apple and Google say they are protecting user privacy. This grandstanding is a little hard to digest. Considering the fact that major tech companies are responsible for some of the biggest privacy debacles? Also read: Twitter swings to loss as pandemic hits advertising Google says it cares about user privacy. But, it runs is business on an advertising model that depends on the collection of personal information. It was around 20 years ago that Google introduced a privacy statement. But, the company hardly stays on the right side of it. Several privacy controversies have plagued the country in the past. Personal information has been leaked. Google themselves has been caught storing user location data. The search engine giant has been unable to shake off the privacy concerns. What about Apple? A couple of years back, Apple CEO Tim Cook had defined privacy as a fundamental right. Apple wants the user to believe that it is the only tech company it can trust. The company has positioned itself as a protector of users. To give credit where its due, Apple's own platform has not been caught in any major privacy scandal. But, it can't say the same about apple's business partners. This is where the app store comes it. Apple has one of the biggest app directories. It is highly profitable too. But, Apple has allowed privacy violators to freely operate on it. Even the kids were not spared. A journalist from the Wall Street Journal put out a story. She wrote about curious George. Sounds like a harmless game. But, it was collecting her son's age, name -- and data of whatever he tapped. The journalist ended up testing 80 apps. Most of them were promoted in the app stores "apps we love" section. She found that 79 apps used third party trackers for marketing, ads or analytics. On average --- there were at least four trackers in every app. So, its a bit rich when apple and google ban GPS tracking on contract tracing apps in the name of privacy. Contact tracing is common now. Experts consider it a crucial tool in the fight against the coronavirus. Yes, there are legitimate concerns over how certain contract tracing apps operate and collect data. But --- when tech companies try to draw the line between right and wrong.

Apple and Google decide to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps

Two biggest tech companies of the world Google and Apple on April 10 announced a joint effort to enable technology system to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of COVID-19 through contact tracing.

Apple and Google, whose operating systems power 99% of smartphones, said last month they would work together to create a system for notifying people who have been near others who have tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. The companies plan to allow only public health authorities to use the technology.

The system uses Bluetooth signals from phones to detect encounters and does not use or store GPS location data.

But the developers of official coronavirus-related apps in several US states told Reuters last month it was vital they be allowed to use GPS location data in conjunction with the new contact tracing system to track how outbreaks move and identify hotspots.

Apple and Google also said Monday they will allow only one app per country to use the contact system, to avoid fragmentation and encourage wider adoption. The companies said they would, however, support countries that opt for a state or regional approach, and that U.S. states will be allowed to use the system.

Two biggest tech companies of the world Google and Apple on April 10 announced a joint effort to enable technology system to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of COVID-19 through contact tracing.

Two biggest tech companies of the world Google and Apple on April 10 announced a joint effort to enable technology system to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of COVID-19 through contact tracing. Apple and Google, whose operating systems power 99% of smartphones, said last month they would work together to create a system for notifying people who have been near others who have tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. The companies plan to allow only public health authorities to use the technology. The system uses Bluetooth signals from phones to detect encounters and does not use or store GPS location data. But the developers of official coronavirus-related apps in several US states told Reuters last month it was vital they be allowed to use GPS location data in conjunction with the new contact tracing system to track how outbreaks move and identify hotspots. Apple and Google also said Monday they will allow only one app per country to use the contact system, to avoid fragmentation and encourage wider adoption. The companies said they would, however, support countries that opt for a state or regional approach, and that U.S. states will be allowed to use the system.

Now your smartphone can warn you if you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus

Coronavirus has forced humans to adapt and change their lifestyle, the pandemic has now forced software of the tech giants to adapt to the present scenario.

Apple has decided to update its Face ID unlock feature looking at the present situation due to the coronavirus pandemic. People have been forced to wear masks are a preventive measure which makes it difficult for the user to unlock his/her phones using FaceID.&nbsp;

The phone offers a passcode when it fails to recognise the user's face and the tech giant has decided to work on it. In the iOS 13.5 beta version will help the users directly swipe up and enter the passcode to skip the delay. According to Twitter users who use Apple iPhone with this version, the phone detects the masks and will automatically ask you the passcode.&nbsp;

The feature is still in beta version and is yet to be used widely. This technology will help users unlock their phones quickly.&nbsp;

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 3.2 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected 3,257,520 people worldwide and 233,405 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 1,014,809 people of that tally have recovered. 
&nbsp;

Coronavirus has forced humans to adapt and change their lifestyle, the pandemic has now forced software of the tech giants to adapt to the present scenario. Apple has decided to update its Face ID unlock feature looking at the present situation due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus has forced humans to adapt and change their lifestyle, the pandemic has now forced software of the tech giants to adapt to the present scenario. Apple has decided to update its Face ID unlock feature looking at the present situation due to the coronavirus pandemic. People have been forced to wear masks are a preventive measure which makes it difficult for the user to unlock his/her phones using FaceID. The phone offers a passcode when it fails to recognise the user's face and the tech giant has decided to work on it. In the iOS 13.5 beta version will help the users directly swipe up and enter the passcode to skip the delay. According to Twitter users who use Apple iPhone with this version, the phone detects the masks and will automatically ask you the passcode. The feature is still in beta version and is yet to be used widely. This technology will help users unlock their phones quickly. Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 3.2 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 3,257,520 people worldwide and 233,405 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,014,809 people of that tally have recovered.

Apple update makes it easier to unlock phone with face mask on!

The Silicon Valley giants, Apple and Google would release the initial versions of the contact tracing apps aimed to reduce the coronavirus spread this week, companies said in a statement on Thursday. According to the statement, the initial versions will be released to selective developers only for testing.

The final version of their tools is expected to be released by mid-May after the developers complete the testing.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-and-apple-collaborate-to-track-coronavirus-pandemic-292645">Google and Apple collaborate to track coronavirus pandemic</a>

Apple and Google have been working with public health experts and researchers to write apps that people can use to notify those they have come in contact with if they come down with COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus.

The rare collaboration is expected to accelerate usage of apps that aim to get potentially infected individuals into testing or quarantine more quickly and reliably than existing systems in much of the world. Such tracing will play a vital role in managing the virus once lockdowns end, health experts say.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-to-delay-mass-production-of-2020-flagship-iphones-report-295119">Apple to delay mass production of 2020 flagship iPhones</a>

Meanwhile, according to a recent survey done by the University of Maryland and the Washington Post, &nbsp;more than half of all Americans either do not own smartphones or would not use these apps aimed at trace who has been exposed to the new coronavirus.

As per the poll, 82% of Americans said they had a smartphone out of those, only half said they would definitely or probably use such an app.

Much of the scepticism is based on concern about Google and Apple, the poll found.

Just 43% of smartphone users polled expressed "a great deal" or "a good amount" of trust in Google and Apple and other tech companies, while 47% expressed trust in health insurers, 56% in universities and 57% in public health agencies, the poll found.

Contract tracing is deemed necessary to reopen the US economy, which has been hard hit by shutdowns aimed at slowing the spread of the disease which has killed more than 58,000 Americans. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

The Silicon Valley giants, Apple and Google would release the initial versions of the contact tracing apps aimed to reduce the coronavirus spread this week, companies said in a statement on Thursday.

The Silicon Valley giants, Apple and Google would release the initial versions of the contact tracing apps aimed to reduce the coronavirus spread this week, companies said in a statement on Thursday. According to the statement, the initial versions will be released to selective developers only for testing. The final version of their tools is expected to be released by mid-May after the developers complete the testing. Also read: Google and Apple collaborate to track coronavirus pandemic Apple and Google have been working with public health experts and researchers to write apps that people can use to notify those they have come in contact with if they come down with COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus. The rare collaboration is expected to accelerate usage of apps that aim to get potentially infected individuals into testing or quarantine more quickly and reliably than existing systems in much of the world. Such tracing will play a vital role in managing the virus once lockdowns end, health experts say. Also read: Apple to delay mass production of 2020 flagship iPhones Meanwhile, according to a recent survey done by the University of Maryland and the Washington Post, more than half of all Americans either do not own smartphones or would not use these apps aimed at trace who has been exposed to the new coronavirus. As per the poll, 82% of Americans said they had a smartphone out of those, only half said they would definitely or probably use such an app. Much of the scepticism is based on concern about Google and Apple, the poll found. Just 43% of smartphone users polled expressed "a great deal" or "a good amount" of trust in Google and Apple and other tech companies, while 47% expressed trust in health insurers, 56% in universities and 57% in public health agencies, the poll found. Contract tracing is deemed necessary to reopen the US economy, which has been hard hit by shutdowns aimed at slowing the spread of the disease which has killed more than 58,000 Americans. (With inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus pandemic: Apple, Google to release developer version of contact tracing app this week

Apple Inc on Wednesday released a smaller iPhone priced at $399, cutting the starting price for the company`s smartphone line in a move to broaden its appeal to budget-conscious customers as the coronavirus hobbles the global economy.

The lower-cost model could also attract more consumers to Apple services, a growing driver of revenue. Shares of Apple fell 0.8%, less than the 2.1% decline of the S&amp;P 500 index.

Apple will start taking orders for the phone on its website on Friday, with the delivery of devices expected to start April 24.

The iPhone SE will start at $50 less than what was previously the cheapest iPhone available, the iPhone 8, which will be retired. The SE comes with a 4.7-inch display and the same processor chip as Apple`s most advanced phone, the 11 Pro. The SE lacks Apple`s facial recognition system to unlock the device, instead of relying on a fingerprint sensor similar to older models. While the new iPhone adds features such as wireless charging and a high-end camera, it lacks connectivity for 5G, the next generation of mobile data networks.

The announcement comes as the United States and much of the world is reeling from the novel coronavirus, although U.S. political leaders have begun to talk about ending stay-at-home orders and restarting the economy, hoping record deaths and falling hospitalizations represent a peak.

Previous iPhones have been unveiled in a polished presentation in front of fans, but large events remain banned in Apple`s home base of Santa Clara County, California, where public officials ordered the first lockdowns in the United States to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. 
Apple`s cheaper phone reflects the coronavirus-driven economic downturn and job loss.

Ben Bajarin, principal analyst for consumer market intelligence at Creative Strategies, said that Apple likely realized many customers were buying older models such as the iPhone 8 rather than the newer iPhone 11 Pro at $999, "and a big part of that is probably price." Those budget-minded iPhone buyers may have been turned off by the iPhone 8's ageing chips and camera.

Apple is "addressing that head-on with a device and price that can still get people on the latest technology," he said. "Having a device you`re sure is going to last a long time is exactly what (consumers) want." 
The new aluminum-and-glass SE - which comes in black, white and red, looks much like an iPhone 8.

The cheaper phone enters a cut-throat market for value phones, especially in China, where Apple derives about 17% of sales. In China, rivals such as Xiaomi Corp last month announced models with 5G features starting at about $425.

But Bajarin said buyers interested in 5G may gravitate toward flagship phones, while budget buyers “are not people that would give a hoot about 5G.”

With wavering hardware sales, Apple has been investing in subscription services such as its Apple TV+ streaming television service, Apple Music and iCloud. The new SE will come bundled with a one free year of the streaming television service, similar to Apple`s flagship devices released last fall.

"Given its price tag, (the iPhone SE) is unlikely to be that impactful for Apple’s financials, but could help widen the installed base, which will be helpful long term for Apple’s services revenue," said James Cordwell, an analyst with Atlantic Equities.

Horace Dediu, an analyst with Asymco, said that budget-minded phone buyers may not pay attention to whether a device has Apple`s latest chips, but third-party app developers do. If more iPhone users have powerful hardware, he said, it could encourage developers to create apps with augmented reality and artificial intelligence that could help the devices stand out against competitors.

The coronavirus has created a volatile start to the year. Sales in China, the first nation hit by the virus, plunged, then rebounded as the country began to reopen. Sales of 500,000 phones in February rose to 2.5 million phones in March, according to government sales data there.

Apple will begin selling the new model online while its stores around the world are closed, except those within its greater China sales region. 
Apple gets about 31% of its sales from its elegant stores and website, with 69% coming from partners such as mobile carriers and other retailers.

Apple said partners would decide whether to sell the phones in their physical stores. Many of Apple`s resellers are trying to guide customers toward online sales. Major partners such as Best Buy Inc have reduced their hours, and AT&amp;T Inc has closed about 40% of its U.S. retail stores.

Best Buy said customers would be able to pre-order the new iPhone on its website and either have it shipped to their home or use the company's curbside pickup option. Verizon Communications Inc, which has stopped selling any phones in physical stores, told Reuters on Wednesday that it will not sell the iPhone SE in stores. T-Mobile US Inc did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Apple Inc on Wednesday released a smaller iPhone priced at $399, cutting the starting price for the company`s smartphone line in a move to broaden its appeal to budget-conscious customers as the coronavirus hobbles the global economy.

Apple Inc on Wednesday released a smaller iPhone priced at $399, cutting the starting price for the company`s smartphone line in a move to broaden its appeal to budget-conscious customers as the coronavirus hobbles the global economy. The lower-cost model could also attract more consumers to Apple services, a growing driver of revenue. Shares of Apple fell 0.8%, less than the 2.1% decline of the S&P 500 index. Apple will start taking orders for the phone on its website on Friday, with the delivery of devices expected to start April 24. The iPhone SE will start at $50 less than what was previously the cheapest iPhone available, the iPhone 8, which will be retired. The SE comes with a 4.7-inch display and the same processor chip as Apple`s most advanced phone, the 11 Pro. The SE lacks Apple`s facial recognition system to unlock the device, instead of relying on a fingerprint sensor similar to older models. While the new iPhone adds features such as wireless charging and a high-end camera, it lacks connectivity for 5G, the next generation of mobile data networks. The announcement comes as the United States and much of the world is reeling from the novel coronavirus, although U.S. political leaders have begun to talk about ending stay-at-home orders and restarting the economy, hoping record deaths and falling hospitalizations represent a peak. Previous iPhones have been unveiled in a polished presentation in front of fans, but large events remain banned in Apple`s home base of Santa Clara County, California, where public officials ordered the first lockdowns in the United States to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Apple`s cheaper phone reflects the coronavirus-driven economic downturn and job loss. Ben Bajarin, principal analyst for consumer market intelligence at Creative Strategies, said that Apple likely realized many customers were buying older models such as the iPhone 8 rather than the newer iPhone 11 Pro at $999, "and a big part of that is probably price." Those budget-minded iPhone buyers may have been turned off by the iPhone 8's ageing chips and camera. Apple is "addressing that head-on with a device and price that can still get people on the latest technology," he said. "Having a device you`re sure is going to last a long time is exactly what (consumers) want." The new aluminum-and-glass SE - which comes in black, white and red, looks much like an iPhone 8. The cheaper phone enters a cut-throat market for value phones, especially in China, where Apple derives about 17% of sales. In China, rivals such as Xiaomi Corp last month announced models with 5G features starting at about $425. But Bajarin said buyers interested in 5G may gravitate toward flagship phones, while budget buyers “are not people that would give a hoot about 5G.” With wavering hardware sales, Apple has been investing in subscription services such as its Apple TV+ streaming television service, Apple Music and iCloud. The new SE will come bundled with a one free year of the streaming television service, similar to Apple`s flagship devices released last fall. "Given its price tag, (the iPhone SE) is unlikely to be that impactful for Apple’s financials, but could help widen the installed base, which will be helpful long term for Apple’s services revenue," said James Cordwell, an analyst with Atlantic Equities. Horace Dediu, an analyst with Asymco, said that budget-minded phone buyers may not pay attention to whether a device has Apple`s latest chips, but third-party app developers do. If more iPhone users have powerful hardware, he said, it could encourage developers to create apps with augmented reality and artificial intelligence that could help the devices stand out against competitors. The coronavirus has created a volatile start to the year. Sales in China, the first nation hit by the virus, plunged, then rebounded as the country began to reopen. Sales of 500,000 phones in February rose to 2.5 million phones in March, according to government sales data there. Apple will begin selling the new model online while its stores around the world are closed, except those within its greater China sales region. Apple gets about 31% of its sales from its elegant stores and website, with 69% coming from partners such as mobile carriers and other retailers. Apple said partners would decide whether to sell the phones in their physical stores. Many of Apple`s resellers are trying to guide customers toward online sales. Major partners such as Best Buy Inc have reduced their hours, and AT&T Inc has closed about 40% of its U.S. retail stores. Best Buy said customers would be able to pre-order the new iPhone on its website and either have it shipped to their home or use the company's curbside pickup option. Verizon Communications Inc, which has stopped selling any phones in physical stores, told Reuters on Wednesday that it will not sell the iPhone SE in stores. T-Mobile US Inc did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Apple rolls out cheaper iPhone as pandemic curbs spending

Google and Apple have come together to help authorities track the coronavirus pandemic by using Bluetooth technology.

The two Silicon Valley giants will work on a platform to enable&nbsp;contact tracing, a measure that identifies people who have been exposed to the virus and who they have been in contact with.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjs6-a-leroAhXnwTgGHUW3AoYQFjAFegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1BzEvUzb7iVByk_scusGwk" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786" target="_blank">No,&nbsp;5G&nbsp;waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

Initially, interfaces built on existing public health apps that can work on iOS or Android systems will be released by the companies&nbsp;in May.

This will be followed by a more comprehensive platform in the coming months to which users will be able to opt in.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/2021-no-new-emojis-to-be-launched-due-to-coronavirus-pandemic-292197" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/2021-no-new-emojis-to-be-launched-due-to-coronavirus-pandemic-292197&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjs6-a-leroAhXnwTgGHUW3AoYQFjACegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0TdYx5x2DYcIZAfiTSBntV" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2021-no-new-emojis-to-be-launched-due-to-coronavirus-pandemic-292197" target="_blank">2021: No new emojis to be launched due to coronavirus pandemic</a>

According to press statement released by Google, smartphone user that tests positive for the coronavirus can input their result into an app from a public health authority, which will feed into an anonymous "identifier beacon".

This identifier will then be anonymously exchanged with anyone the user comes into contact with who also has the service enabled.

Users then upload their identifier records to the cloud, following which they will receive a notification if they have been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for the virus.

Authorities around the world are&nbsp;using technology to&nbsp;track exposure and enforce quarantines.

Last month, Facebook&nbsp;and&nbsp;Google had&nbsp;confirmed that&nbsp;they were looking into the use of&nbsp;cellphone location data&nbsp;to help track the spread of the virus.

Google and Apple have come together to help authorities track the coronavirus pandemic by using Bluetooth technology. The two Silicon Valley giants will work on a platform to enable contact tracing, a measure that identifies people who have been exposed to the virus and who they have been in contact with.

Google and Apple have come together to help authorities track the coronavirus pandemic by using Bluetooth technology. The two Silicon Valley giants will work on a platform to enable contact tracing, a measure that identifies people who have been exposed to the virus and who they have been in contact with. Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! Initially, interfaces built on existing public health apps that can work on iOS or Android systems will be released by the companies in May. This will be followed by a more comprehensive platform in the coming months to which users will be able to opt in. Also read: 2021: No new emojis to be launched due to coronavirus pandemic According to press statement released by Google, smartphone user that tests positive for the coronavirus can input their result into an app from a public health authority, which will feed into an anonymous "identifier beacon". This identifier will then be anonymously exchanged with anyone the user comes into contact with who also has the service enabled. Users then upload their identifier records to the cloud, following which they will receive a notification if they have been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for the virus. Authorities around the world are using technology to track exposure and enforce quarantines. Last month, Facebook and Google had confirmed that they were looking into the use of cellphone location data to help track the spread of the virus.

Google and Apple collaborate to track coronavirus pandemic

Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google said on Friday that they will work together to create contact tracing technology that aims to slow the spread of the coronavirus by allowing users to opt into logging other phones they have been near.

Apple, Google join hands to tackle COVID-19

Twitter's co-founder and chief executive officer&nbsp;Jack Dorsey&nbsp;has announced that he is donating $1 billion of his personal fortune to coronavirus relief fund.

According to&nbsp;Dorsey, the donation represented approximately 28 per cent&nbsp;of his&nbsp;fortune of approximately $3.9 billion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-2000-coronavirus-deaths-in-us-in-the-last-24-hours-report-291241" hreflang="en">Nearly 2,000 coronavirus deaths in US in the last 24 hours: Report</a>

The 43-year-old&nbsp;took to Twitter to make the announcement and said that he was donating square shares equivalent to the sum to a charitable fund, called Start Small, to ''fund global Covid-19 relief''.&nbsp;

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I’m moving $1B of my Square equity (~28% of my wealth) to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/startsmall?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#startsmall</a> LLC to fund global COVID-19 relief. After we disarm this pandemic, the focus will shift to girl’s health and education, and UBI. It will operate transparently, all flows tracked here: <a href="https://t.co/hVkUczDQmz">https://t.co/hVkUczDQmz</a>
— jack (@jack) <a href="https://twitter.com/jack/status/1247616214769086465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It is by far the biggest single donation to the global fight to tackle the coronavirus outbreak and comes with the pandemic spanning the globe and inflicting a heavy toll in lives and economic devastation on the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-accuses-who-of-bias-toward-china-threatened-to-put-hold-on-us-funding-291237" hreflang="en">Donald Trump accuses WHO of bias toward China, threatened to ‘put hold on’ US funding</a>

Dorsey said that after the pandemic ends, the fund would focus on health and education for girls and "universal basic income" efforts.

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has committed $30 million, the bulk of which is focused on efforts to create a treatment.

Amazon's Jeff Bezos has donated $100 million&nbsp;to food banks in the US to help those struggling with hunger during this period.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-fN773HvBu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Even in ordinary times, food insecurity in American households is an important problem, and unfortunately COVID-19 is amplifying that stress significantly. Non-profit food banks and food pantries rely in large part on surplus food from a range of food businesses. For example, many restaurants donate excess food. But during this time of social distancing, restaurants are closed, and many other normal channels of excess food have also shut down. To make matters worse, as supply is dwindling, demand for food bank services is going up.⁣ ⁣ Today, I want to support those on the front lines at our nation’s food banks and those who are relying on them for food with a $100 million gift to @FeedingAmerica. Feeding America will quickly distribute the funds to their national network of food banks and food pantries, getting food to those countless families who need it.⁣ ⁣ Feeding America is the largest non-profit focused on food security. Millions of Americans are turning to food banks during this time. If you want to help, the link to Feeding America is in my bio. They’d be excited and grateful for donations of any size.</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeffbezos/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Jeff Bezos</a> (@jeffbezos) on <time datetime="2020-04-02T18:00:55+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 2, 2020 at 11:00am PDT</time>
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Apple's chief executive Tim Cook announced in March the company would donate medical supplies to Italy which has been hit hard by the virus.

Twitter's co-founder and chief executive officer Jack Dorsey has announced that he is donating $1 billion of his personal fortune to coronavirus relief fund. According to Dorsey, the donation represented approximately 28 per cent of his fortune of approximately $3.

Twitter's co-founder and chief executive officer Jack Dorsey has announced that he is donating $1 billion of his personal fortune to coronavirus relief fund. According to Dorsey, the donation represented approximately 28 per cent of his fortune of approximately $3.9 billion. Also read: Nearly 2,000 coronavirus deaths in US in the last 24 hours: Report The 43-year-old took to Twitter to make the announcement and said that he was donating square shares equivalent to the sum to a charitable fund, called Start Small, to ''fund global Covid-19 relief''. I’m moving $1B of my Square equity (~28% of my wealth) to #startsmall LLC to fund global COVID-19 relief. After we disarm this pandemic, the focus will shift to girl’s health and education, and UBI. It will operate transparently, all flows tracked here: https://t.co/hVkUczDQmz — jack (@jack) April 7, 2020 × It is by far the biggest single donation to the global fight to tackle the coronavirus outbreak and comes with the pandemic spanning the globe and inflicting a heavy toll in lives and economic devastation on the United States. Also read: Donald Trump accuses WHO of bias toward China, threatened to ‘put hold on’ US funding Dorsey said that after the pandemic ends, the fund would focus on health and education for girls and "universal basic income" efforts. Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has committed $30 million, the bulk of which is focused on efforts to create a treatment. Amazon's Jeff Bezos has donated $100 million to food banks in the US to help those struggling with hunger during this period. View this post on Instagram Even in ordinary times, food insecurity in American households is an important problem, and unfortunately COVID-19 is amplifying that stress significantly. Non-profit food banks and food pantries rely in large part on surplus food from a range of food businesses. For example, many restaurants donate excess food. But during this time of social distancing, restaurants are closed, and many other normal channels of excess food have also shut down. To make matters worse, as supply is dwindling, demand for food bank services is going up.⁣ ⁣ Today, I want to support those on the front lines at our nation’s food banks and those who are relying on them for food with a $100 million gift to @FeedingAmerica. Feeding America will quickly distribute the funds to their national network of food banks and food pantries, getting food to those countless families who need it.⁣ ⁣ Feeding America is the largest non-profit focused on food security. Millions of Americans are turning to food banks during this time. If you want to help, the link to Feeding America is in my bio. They’d be excited and grateful for donations of any size. A post shared by Jeff Bezos (@jeffbezos) on Apr 2, 2020 at 11:00am PDT × Apple's chief executive Tim Cook announced in March the company would donate medical supplies to Italy which has been hit hard by the virus.

Twitter chief Dorsey vows quarter of his fortune for coronavirus relief fund

Apple devices are not impenetrable, after all!

Turns out, a security flaw in the web browser Safari can give hackers access to a person’s camera, either or on an iPhone or on a Macbook.

The flaw was discovered by Ryan Pickren, a security expert, who was later awarded money by Apple for finding their shortcoming.

According to him, this has a lot to do with how Apple’s browser - Safari logs permissions for websites that are visited frequently.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/imask-apple-starts-producing-protective-facial-gear-to-help-with-coronavirus-crisis-290773" hreflang="en">iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis</a>

For instance, a video chat application like Skype only needs permission to access your camera and microphone once, after which it will automatically access the lens whenever needed.

In a conversation with Wired, Pickren claimed that an attacker could make a “malicious website that, from Safari’s perspective could then turn into Skype”.

What does this imply?&nbsp;

Simply put, you no longer will know the hacker has access not only to your camera and microphone but can also screen all information and data!&nbsp;

Additionally, the hacker now can take as many pictures of you as they want, and then use them as they deem fit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/apple-doubles-china-donations-for-covid-19-recovery-efforts-289934" hreflang="en">Apple doubles China donations for COVID-19 recovery efforts</a>

How do they do this?

It’s simple, they make simple tweaks in the URL you intend to visit.&nbsp; For instance, www.wionews.com may come off as http://wion.com or http://wionews.com/news

Such slight variations may not mean anything for a casual user, but will give a lot of unregulated access to the hacker!

This is usually called the “bait and switch” attack.&nbsp;

If Apple is to be believed, the security flaw has been fixed in the security updates released in January and March. So if you’re an Apple user and haven’t updated yet - it might be time!

Apple devices are not impenetrable, after all! Turns out, a security flaw in the web browser Safari can give hackers access to a person’s camera, either or on an iPhone or on a Macbook.

Apple devices are not impenetrable, after all! Turns out, a security flaw in the web browser Safari can give hackers access to a person’s camera, either or on an iPhone or on a Macbook. The flaw was discovered by Ryan Pickren, a security expert, who was later awarded money by Apple for finding their shortcoming. According to him, this has a lot to do with how Apple’s browser - Safari logs permissions for websites that are visited frequently. Also read: iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis For instance, a video chat application like Skype only needs permission to access your camera and microphone once, after which it will automatically access the lens whenever needed. In a conversation with Wired, Pickren claimed that an attacker could make a “malicious website that, from Safari’s perspective could then turn into Skype”. What does this imply? Simply put, you no longer will know the hacker has access not only to your camera and microphone but can also screen all information and data! Additionally, the hacker now can take as many pictures of you as they want, and then use them as they deem fit. Also read: Apple doubles China donations for COVID-19 recovery efforts How do they do this? It’s simple, they make simple tweaks in the URL you intend to visit. For instance, www.wionews.com may come off as http://wion.com or http://wionews.com/news Such slight variations may not mean anything for a casual user, but will give a lot of unregulated access to the hacker! This is usually called the “bait and switch” attack. If Apple is to be believed, the security flaw has been fixed in the security updates released in January and March. So if you’re an Apple user and haven’t updated yet - it might be time!

Apple devices are not impenetrable, after all!

Apple Inc, the company behind the world’s most innovative smartphone and computer technology has now stepped in to help deal with the COVID-19 crisis.

In a statement released yesterday, Apple’s Chief Executive Tim Cook said that the company would be making protective face shields for health workers.

Starting out in the United States, Apple plans to make more than one million shields every week. After fulfilling the needs of the US, the shields will then be shipped to different parts of the world.

Besides amping up its own production, the company is sourcing over 20 million masks to help out with the global shortage of masks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-1200000-death-toll-rises-to-69444-290745">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,200,000; death toll rises to 69,444</a>

Most companies around the world that have pre existing production capabilities are helping out during the pandemic, be it Tata in India, or Tesla elsewhere. Apple is the newest addition to the list.

Companies have undertaken building medical equipment like ventilators, as the world, in modest terms, was simply not prepared to deal with a pandemic on a scale as big as COVID-19.

"This is a truly global effort, and we're working continuously and closely with governments at all levels to ensure these are donated to places of greatest need," Cook said in a Twitter video.

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Apple is dedicated to supporting the worldwide response to COVID-19. We’ve now sourced over 20M masks through our supply chain. Our design, engineering, operations and packaging teams are also working with suppliers to design, produce and ship face shields for medical workers. <a href="https://t.co/3xRqNgMThX">pic.twitter.com/3xRqNgMThX</a>
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) <a href="https://twitter.com/tim_cook/status/1246916489589837824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Apple has roped in engineers, suppliers, and designers to assist them with the face shield production.

According to Cook, the shields take over two minutes to be assembled. The first shipment of the plastic shields was sent to hospitals in Silicon Valley last week, with the material coming from the US and China.

"In both these efforts, our focus is on unique ways Apple can help, meeting essential needs of caregivers urgently and at a scale the circumstances require," Cook added.&nbsp;

The pandemic has brought into question the viability and effectiveness of global healthcare systems and infrastructure, as countries, irrespective of whether they’re perceived as developed or developing, are facing major repercussions of the infection.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiger-in-new-york-city-tests-positive-for-covid-19-other-cats-around-showing-symptoms-290762" hreflang="en">Tiger in New York City tests positive for COVID-19; other cats around showing symptoms!</a>

As of today, more than 600,000 people globally have been tested positive for the virus. Additionally, over 60,000 people have lost their lives to the killer infection which can cause pneumonia and essentially attacks the lungs.

From 3D-printing to makeshift production facilities, the world has woken up to the crisis call and is now responding to the demand with full force.

"For Apple, this is a labour of love and gratitude, and we will share more of our efforts over time", Cook additionally said.

Apple Inc, the company behind the world’s most innovative smartphone and computer technology has now stepped in to help deal with the COVID-19 crisis. In a statement released yesterday, Apple’s Chief Executive Tim Cook said that the company would be making protective face shields for health workers.

Apple Inc, the company behind the world’s most innovative smartphone and computer technology has now stepped in to help deal with the COVID-19 crisis. In a statement released yesterday, Apple’s Chief Executive Tim Cook said that the company would be making protective face shields for health workers. Starting out in the United States, Apple plans to make more than one million shields every week. After fulfilling the needs of the US, the shields will then be shipped to different parts of the world. Besides amping up its own production, the company is sourcing over 20 million masks to help out with the global shortage of masks. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,200,000; death toll rises to 69,444 Most companies around the world that have pre existing production capabilities are helping out during the pandemic, be it Tata in India, or Tesla elsewhere. Apple is the newest addition to the list. Companies have undertaken building medical equipment like ventilators, as the world, in modest terms, was simply not prepared to deal with a pandemic on a scale as big as COVID-19. "This is a truly global effort, and we're working continuously and closely with governments at all levels to ensure these are donated to places of greatest need," Cook said in a Twitter video. Apple is dedicated to supporting the worldwide response to COVID-19. We’ve now sourced over 20M masks through our supply chain. Our design, engineering, operations and packaging teams are also working with suppliers to design, produce and ship face shields for medical workers. pic.twitter.com/3xRqNgMThX — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 5, 2020 × Apple has roped in engineers, suppliers, and designers to assist them with the face shield production. According to Cook, the shields take over two minutes to be assembled. The first shipment of the plastic shields was sent to hospitals in Silicon Valley last week, with the material coming from the US and China. "In both these efforts, our focus is on unique ways Apple can help, meeting essential needs of caregivers urgently and at a scale the circumstances require," Cook added. The pandemic has brought into question the viability and effectiveness of global healthcare systems and infrastructure, as countries, irrespective of whether they’re perceived as developed or developing, are facing major repercussions of the infection. Also read: Tiger in New York City tests positive for COVID-19; other cats around showing symptoms! As of today, more than 600,000 people globally have been tested positive for the virus. Additionally, over 60,000 people have lost their lives to the killer infection which can cause pneumonia and essentially attacks the lungs. From 3D-printing to makeshift production facilities, the world has woken up to the crisis call and is now responding to the demand with full force. "For Apple, this is a labour of love and gratitude, and we will share more of our efforts over time", Cook additionally said.

iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis

Apple&nbsp;more than doubled its donation to China's efforts to fight COVID-19 to over 50 million yuan ($7 million), CEO Tim Cook posted on Weibo on Wednesday, weeks after the iPhone maker said it had opened all its 42 stores in one of its largest markets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-anti-trust-regulators-fine-apple-123-billion-286882">French anti-trust regulators fine Apple $1.23 billion</a>

Cook said in a post on Twitter last week that&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;donated 10 million masks for health professionals in the United States and Europe, which it sourced through its supply networks.

Supplies and donations have come in from wealthy executives and corporates around the world to fight the coronavirus, which has killed more than 42,000 people globally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-clouds-apples-timeline-for-new-iphones-283117">Coronavirus clouds Apple's timeline for new iPhones</a>

Chinese billionaire and Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma has pledged similar medical supply donations including masks and testing kits, as have other Chinese tech giants such as Baidu, Tencent, Huawei and ByteDance, according to Chinese media reports.

Apple&nbsp;has already donated 20 million yuan of its promised amount through Beijing-based China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation to support six hospitals in Hubei, including the makeshift Leishenshan hospital in Wuhan, Cook said.

Apple&nbsp;will contribute the rest of the money to support longer-term public health recovery efforts, he said.

"China has shown incredible spirit and resilience during the COVID-19 outbreak and we are grateful to our teams, partners and customers for their support during these challenging times," Cook said in a message on China's Twitter equivalent Weibo.

COVID-19 is the name of the respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus.

Apple&nbsp;warned last month it was unlikely to meet its March-quarter sales guidance as the ramp-up of Chinese factories that produce iPhones was slower than expected after weeks of closures.

The flu-like virus originated in China last year and has since spread across 205 countries and territories. Globally it has infected more 850,000 people, according to a Reuters tally.

Apple more than doubled its donation to China's efforts to fight COVID-19 to over 50 million yuan ($7 million), CEO Tim Cook posted on Weibo on Wednesday, weeks after the iPhone maker said it had opened all its 42 stores in one of its largest markets.

Apple more than doubled its donation to China's efforts to fight COVID-19 to over 50 million yuan ($7 million), CEO Tim Cook posted on Weibo on Wednesday, weeks after the iPhone maker said it had opened all its 42 stores in one of its largest markets. Also read: French anti-trust regulators fine Apple $1.23 billion Cook said in a post on Twitter last week that Apple donated 10 million masks for health professionals in the United States and Europe, which it sourced through its supply networks. Supplies and donations have come in from wealthy executives and corporates around the world to fight the coronavirus, which has killed more than 42,000 people globally. Also read: Coronavirus clouds Apple's timeline for new iPhones Chinese billionaire and Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma has pledged similar medical supply donations including masks and testing kits, as have other Chinese tech giants such as Baidu, Tencent, Huawei and ByteDance, according to Chinese media reports. Apple has already donated 20 million yuan of its promised amount through Beijing-based China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation to support six hospitals in Hubei, including the makeshift Leishenshan hospital in Wuhan, Cook said. Apple will contribute the rest of the money to support longer-term public health recovery efforts, he said. "China has shown incredible spirit and resilience during the COVID-19 outbreak and we are grateful to our teams, partners and customers for their support during these challenging times," Cook said in a message on China's Twitter equivalent Weibo. COVID-19 is the name of the respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus. Apple warned last month it was unlikely to meet its March-quarter sales guidance as the ramp-up of Chinese factories that produce iPhones was slower than expected after weeks of closures. The flu-like virus originated in China last year and has since spread across 205 countries and territories. Globally it has infected more 850,000 people, according to a Reuters tally.

Apple doubles China donations for COVID-19 recovery efforts

Apple sold fewer than half a million smartphones in China in February, government data showed on Monday, as the coronavirus outbreak halved demand for all such devices.

China placed curbs on travel and asked residents to avoid public places in late January, just ahead of the Lunar New Year festival, a major gift-giving holiday. Those restrictions stayed largely in place through most of February.

In total, mobile phone brands shipped a total of 6.34 million devices in February, down 54.7% from 14 million in the same month last year, data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology showed (CAICT).

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shanghai-disneyland-resumes-some-resort-ops-as-coronavirus-infections-slow-285167">Shanghai Disneyland resumes some resort ops as coronavirus infections slow</a>

It was also the lowest level for February since at least 2012 when CAICT started publishing data.

Android brands, which include devices made by Huawei Technologies and Xiaomi, accounted for most of the drop, as they collectively saw shipments decline from 12.72 million units in February 2019 to 5.85 million, the data showed.

Shipments of Apple devices slumped to 494,000, from 1.27 million in February 2019. In January, its shipments had held steady at just over 2 million.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/slow-iphones-apple-agrees-to-pay-up-to-500-million-to-settle-lawsuit-283880">Slow iPhones: Apple agrees to pay up to $500 million to settle lawsuit</a>

Research firms IDC and Canalys previously forecast that overall smartphone shipments would drop by about 40% in the first quarter as the virus outbreak hit demand and brought supply-chain problems.

Apple's branded stores in China were shut for at least two weeks in February as fears over the coronavirus outbreak mounted.

The company's chief executive, Tim Cook, wrote a letter to investors that month warning it would not meet its initial revenue guidance for the current quarter due to demand issues.

Apple sold fewer than half a million smartphones in China in February, government data showed on Monday, as the coronavirus outbreak halved demand for all such devices.

Apple sold fewer than half a million smartphones in China in February, government data showed on Monday, as the coronavirus outbreak halved demand for all such devices. China placed curbs on travel and asked residents to avoid public places in late January, just ahead of the Lunar New Year festival, a major gift-giving holiday. Those restrictions stayed largely in place through most of February. In total, mobile phone brands shipped a total of 6.34 million devices in February, down 54.7% from 14 million in the same month last year, data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology showed (CAICT). Also read: Shanghai Disneyland resumes some resort ops as coronavirus infections slow It was also the lowest level for February since at least 2012 when CAICT started publishing data. Android brands, which include devices made by Huawei Technologies and Xiaomi, accounted for most of the drop, as they collectively saw shipments decline from 12.72 million units in February 2019 to 5.85 million, the data showed. Shipments of Apple devices slumped to 494,000, from 1.27 million in February 2019. In January, its shipments had held steady at just over 2 million. Also see: Slow iPhones: Apple agrees to pay up to $500 million to settle lawsuit Research firms IDC and Canalys previously forecast that overall smartphone shipments would drop by about 40% in the first quarter as the virus outbreak hit demand and brought supply-chain problems. Apple's branded stores in China were shut for at least two weeks in February as fears over the coronavirus outbreak mounted. The company's chief executive, Tim Cook, wrote a letter to investors that month warning it would not meet its initial revenue guidance for the current quarter due to demand issues.

Apple sells fewer than 500,000 smartphones in China in February amid coronavirus

Apple has been hit by another million dollar lawsuit as the company agreed to pay 500 million dollars to settle claims over 'intentionally' slowing down older iPhones to preserve older batteries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-clouds-apples-timeline-for-new-iphones-283117">Coronavirus clouds Apple's timeline for new iPhones</a>

Apple and lawyers representing iPhone consumers agreed to a deal stemming from apple's 2017 admission that it was slowing down phone performance in older models to avoid unexpected shutdowns related to battery fatigue.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-appeals-rejected-by-us-supreme-court-in-legal-battle-with-virnetx-282583">Apple appeals rejected by US Supreme Court in legal battle with VirnetX</a>

It calls for Apple to pay consumers $25 per iPhone, which may be adjusted up or down depending on how many iPhones are eligible.

That admission led to apple offering discounted battery replacements at $29, but many people claimed they had already spent hundreds of dollars to buy new phones because Apple didn't reveal the cause of the problem.

Some consumers have said if apple had known they could just buy new batteries, they might not have bought new phones.

Apple did not admit wrongdoing, As part of the settlement, the company will pay $310 million to 500 million&nbsp;including about $93 million&nbsp;to lawyers representing consumers.

iPhone users who were named in the class-action lawsuit will get up to $3,500 each. The rest of the settlement money will be distributed to owners of iPhone 6, 6s, 7 and SE models who meet eligibility requirements related to the operating system they had running. They must file claims to get the award. If too many people file, the $25&nbsp;amount could shrink.

Apple has been hit by another million dollar lawsuit as the company agreed to pay 500 million dollars to settle claims over 'intentionally' slowing down older iPhones to preserve older batteries.

Apple has been hit by another million dollar lawsuit as the company agreed to pay 500 million dollars to settle claims over 'intentionally' slowing down older iPhones to preserve older batteries. Also read: Coronavirus clouds Apple's timeline for new iPhones Apple and lawyers representing iPhone consumers agreed to a deal stemming from apple's 2017 admission that it was slowing down phone performance in older models to avoid unexpected shutdowns related to battery fatigue. Also read: Apple appeals rejected by US Supreme Court in legal battle with VirnetX It calls for Apple to pay consumers $25 per iPhone, which may be adjusted up or down depending on how many iPhones are eligible. That admission led to apple offering discounted battery replacements at $29, but many people claimed they had already spent hundreds of dollars to buy new phones because Apple didn't reveal the cause of the problem. Some consumers have said if apple had known they could just buy new batteries, they might not have bought new phones. Apple did not admit wrongdoing, As part of the settlement, the company will pay $310 million to 500 million including about $93 million to lawyers representing consumers. iPhone users who were named in the class-action lawsuit will get up to $3,500 each. The rest of the settlement money will be distributed to owners of iPhone 6, 6s, 7 and SE models who meet eligibility requirements related to the operating system they had running. They must file claims to get the award. If too many people file, the $25 amount could shrink.

Slow iPhones: Apple agrees to pay up to $500 million to settle lawsuit

WION Wallet: Apple to settle lawsuit for $500 Million | WION News | World News Apple will pay up to half a billion dollars to settle a class action lawsuit accusing it of slowing down older iPhone models to compel users to buy new ones.

WION Wallet: Apple to settle lawsuit for $500 Million

Apple is ready to open a retail store in India in 2021. Company said, Indian Market is very large and now we are focusing on that.

Apple sets eye on Indian Market

Travel restrictions to China because of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;have come just as Apple Inc's&nbsp;engineers usually jet off to Asia to perfect the production of this fall's new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">iPhones</a>, former employees and supply chain experts told Reuters.

High-volume manufacturing is not scheduled until summer, but the first months of the year are when Apple irons out assembly processes with partners such as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">Foxconn</a>, two former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">Apple</a>&nbsp;employees said.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">How coronavirus is affecting the global economy</a>

"They probably have one assembly line they're trying things out on," said one of the former employees who asked not to be named discussing production matters.

"Are Apple's engineers with the Foxconn engineers? If they are, they're probably making progress. But if they're not, if they're quarantined, that could be bad."

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">Apple</a>&nbsp;uses other contract manufacturers such as Wistron Corp to make some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">iPhones</a>, Taiwan's Foxconn tends to handle the introduction of new models because its capabilities are the most advanced, supply chain experts said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">Apple to launch first retail store in India next year</a>

Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics maker, delayed reopening key iPhone factories in Shenzhen and Zhengzhou after the Lunar New Year holiday but hopes to resume half of its Chinese production by the end of February.

Senior Foxconn officials who have been working remotely from Taipei since the holiday have not yet returned to China on a large scale, a person with knowledge of the matter told Reuters, speaking of company officials generally.

Apple declined to comment. Foxconn Technology Group said in an emailed statement on Tuesday that the company is following all legally required health and safety practices at its factories to protect employee welfare.

"Consistent with this, we are taking a cautious approach in the implementation of our post-holiday production schedules in each of our facilities in China," the company said.

Last week, Apple warned investors it was unlikely to meet revenue targets for the first three months of 2020 and that global iPhone supplies would be limited as manufacturing sites in China were not ramping up production as quickly as expected.

Foxconn said this month that the coronavirus outbreak would lower its revenue this year.

Earlier this month, United Airlines, which has disclosed that Apple is a major customer, said it was cancelling all fights to China until late April. Apple, meanwhile, said on January&nbsp;28 that it was restricting employee to travel to China to "business-critical" situations.

Travel restrictions to China because of the coronavirus have come just as Apple Inc's engineers usually jet off to Asia to perfect the production of this fall's new iPhones, former employees and supply chain experts told Reuters.

Travel restrictions to China because of the coronavirus have come just as Apple Inc's engineers usually jet off to Asia to perfect the production of this fall's new iPhones, former employees and supply chain experts told Reuters. High-volume manufacturing is not scheduled until summer, but the first months of the year are when Apple irons out assembly processes with partners such as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co's Foxconn, two former Apple employees said. Also see: How coronavirus is affecting the global economy "They probably have one assembly line they're trying things out on," said one of the former employees who asked not to be named discussing production matters. "Are Apple's engineers with the Foxconn engineers? If they are, they're probably making progress. But if they're not, if they're quarantined, that could be bad." While Apple uses other contract manufacturers such as Wistron Corp to make some iPhones, Taiwan's Foxconn tends to handle the introduction of new models because its capabilities are the most advanced, supply chain experts said. Also read: Apple to launch first retail store in India next year Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics maker, delayed reopening key iPhone factories in Shenzhen and Zhengzhou after the Lunar New Year holiday but hopes to resume half of its Chinese production by the end of February. Senior Foxconn officials who have been working remotely from Taipei since the holiday have not yet returned to China on a large scale, a person with knowledge of the matter told Reuters, speaking of company officials generally. Apple declined to comment. Foxconn Technology Group said in an emailed statement on Tuesday that the company is following all legally required health and safety practices at its factories to protect employee welfare. "Consistent with this, we are taking a cautious approach in the implementation of our post-holiday production schedules in each of our facilities in China," the company said. Last week, Apple warned investors it was unlikely to meet revenue targets for the first three months of 2020 and that global iPhone supplies would be limited as manufacturing sites in China were not ramping up production as quickly as expected. Foxconn said this month that the coronavirus outbreak would lower its revenue this year. Earlier this month, United Airlines, which has disclosed that Apple is a major customer, said it was cancelling all fights to China until late April. Apple, meanwhile, said on January 28 that it was restricting employee to travel to China to "business-critical" situations.

Coronavirus clouds Apple's timeline for new iPhones

Apple will open its maiden physical retail store in India in 2021, CEO Tim Cook said on Wednesday.

Replying to a question from a shareholder at Apple's annual shareholder meeting in Cupertino, California about the tech giant's plans for India, Cook said Apple would start this year selling its products online in the country. He also added that the first Apple-branded store will be opened next year.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-party-apps-to-get-more-screen-time-on-apple-products-after-criticism-281993">Third-party apps to get more screen time on Apple products after criticism</a>

"We needed to get approval from the government to go in there ourselves" rather than with a domestic partner, Cook said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-says-it-wont-be-able-to-meet-revenue-estimates-for-march-quarter-due-to-coronavirus-281242">Apple says it won't be able to meet revenue estimates for March quarter due to coronavirus&nbsp;</a>

"I don't want somebody else to run the brand for us."

Cook also said that the company has so far not got approval from the government, though he was hopeful that soon the government will give their nod.&nbsp;

Apple's announcement comes six months after the Indian government relaxed local sourcing norms for single-brand retailers in the country. These norms acted as a major obstruction for companies to set up stores in India.&nbsp;

The tech giant had earlier been in talks with the government for subsidies and cutting down import duties before launching its own stores in the country.&nbsp;

Earlier, Apple was expected to open its stores in India between January and March 2020, however, the company kept on delaying it citing logistic issues.&nbsp;

India has proved to be a key market for Cook, especially in the fourth quarter of 2019, when the tech giant witnessed 41 per cent year-on-year growth.

(with inputs from Reuters) 
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Apple will open its maiden physical retail store in India in 2021, CEO Tim Cook said on Wednesday. Replying to a question from a shareholder at Apple's annual shareholder meeting in Cupertino, California about the tech giant's plans for India, Cook said Apple would start this year selling its products online in the country.

Apple will open its maiden physical retail store in India in 2021, CEO Tim Cook said on Wednesday. Replying to a question from a shareholder at Apple's annual shareholder meeting in Cupertino, California about the tech giant's plans for India, Cook said Apple would start this year selling its products online in the country. He also added that the first Apple-branded store will be opened next year. Also read: Third-party apps to get more screen time on Apple products after criticism "We needed to get approval from the government to go in there ourselves" rather than with a domestic partner, Cook said. Also read: Apple says it won't be able to meet revenue estimates for March quarter due to coronavirus "I don't want somebody else to run the brand for us." Cook also said that the company has so far not got approval from the government, though he was hopeful that soon the government will give their nod. Apple's announcement comes six months after the Indian government relaxed local sourcing norms for single-brand retailers in the country. These norms acted as a major obstruction for companies to set up stores in India. The tech giant had earlier been in talks with the government for subsidies and cutting down import duties before launching its own stores in the country. Earlier, Apple was expected to open its stores in India between January and March 2020, however, the company kept on delaying it citing logistic issues. India has proved to be a key market for Cook, especially in the fourth quarter of 2019, when the tech giant witnessed 41 per cent year-on-year growth. (with inputs from Reuters)

Apple to launch first retail store in India next year

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