Loads of iPhone 17 leaks — the good and the bad… (CultCast #688)
Feb 27, 2025
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This week dives into the exciting leaks about the iPhone 17, including its hefty camera humps and new Wi-Fi chip for better connectivity. The hosts share playful anecdotes while pondering the future of video recording capabilities aimed at creators. There's speculations on the upcoming MacBook Air and what iOS 18.4 has in store, along with humorous banter about tech mishaps and even a cheeky discussion about potential James Bond actors. A blend of tech insights and light-hearted camaraderie makes for an entertaining show!
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Quick takeaways
The iPhone 17 Pro is set to feature a significantly larger camera hump, enhancing both aesthetics and stability for users.
Apple's shift to in-house Wi-Fi chips for the iPhone 17 promises improved inter-device connectivity and better integration across its ecosystem.
The upcoming iOS 18.4 update introduces features aimed at enhancing user accessibility and streamlining the overall experience on Apple devices.
Deep dives
Personal Preference for Technology
Growing up in a family where technology was often a source of frustration, a transition to using a Mac was a personal choice driven by the desire for reliability. The speaker emphasized the constant issues faced with their family's Windows computers, leading to a decision to invest summer earnings into purchasing a Mac for better performance. Interestingly, there are hints that this change might positively affect their dad’s perception of computers, as he’s seen experimenting with Mac features like iPhoto. This anecdote reflects a generational shift in comfort with technology, illustrating the nuances of family dynamics in technology adoption.
Insights into the iPhone 17 Pro
Recent CAD designs of the iPhone 17 Pro indicate a noticeable increase in the size of the camera hump, with the design extending across the width of the device. This expansion aims to enhance aesthetic appeal and stability, a change positively received by some users who prefer a more uniform look. Video capabilities are a focal point of Apple’s continued upgrades, targeting content creators who may be encouraged to rely on the iPhone rather than traditional filming equipment. The potential shift to aluminum edges from titanium is also part of this redesign, suggesting a move towards a more visually cohesive product.
Advancements in Apple’s Connectivity Technology
Apple plans to transition to in-house Wi-Fi chips for the iPhone 17, moving away from reliance on Broadcom for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules. The shift aims to enhance inter-device connectivity and enable better integration of features like AirDrop and CarPlay. This development is expected to improve not only power efficiency but also offer smoother functionality across Apple devices, although initial performance may not signify technological breakthroughs. The new chips will primarily support standard Wi-Fi 7, reflecting a step towards more streamlined device ecosystems.
New Features in iOS 18.4 Beta 1
The iOS 18.4 Beta 1 introduces several features, including the addition of Apple Intelligence support across various languages and regions, enhancing accessibility for users worldwide. Priority notifications will highlight important messages on the lock screen, while the Image Playground now includes a Sketch feature for creative visuals. Moreover, a clean design for a cooking section in Apple News+ aims to deliver less cluttered and more practical recipe options, enhancing the cooking experience. This version also emphasizes the aim to provide users with a seamless experience across both software and hardware.
Anticipation for the M4 MacBook Air
Speculation around the M4 MacBook Air suggests a release in early 2025, fueled by reports of dwindling inventory of M3 models and preparations at Apple for market debut. While it’s expected to be a spec bump rather than a groundbreaking overhaul, interest remains high among users looking for performance improvements. This anticipation also coincides with discussions about the importance of sufficient RAM, as many users have faced frustrations with the base model configurations in previous iterations. The M4 model promises to balance performance needs for both everyday users and professionals alike.
This week, we have a bunch of iPhone rumors: the ugly camera bump on the iPhone 17 Pro, its new Apple Wi-Fi chip and details on the folding iPhone coming next year! Also, when the heck are we getting iOS 18.4 and the new MacBook Air?
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