Apple updates, iCaur launch + Shark Ninja lands in SA
Tech Things #61
At Apple’s annual WWDC developer conference on 8 June, it announced updates on its ecosystem: like the ability to adjust Liquid Glass settings (much needed); iCloud Shared albums that work with Windows and Android; and Siri AI, powered by Google’s Gemini AI models. It will be a standalone app, just like Gemini on Android. For the first time, at a system level, AirPods users can custom control EQ settings (how did we survive this long?).
Unfortunately with watchOS27, it will drop support for the Apple Watch Series 8 and earlier, SE (2nd-gen) and Ultra 1st-gen. An easier way to put it, only Series 9/10/11; Ultra 2/3; and SE 3 will be compatible with watchOS27. There was a big focus on parental controls at WWDC; on the new child account setup parents can automatically apply age-appropriate restrictions, choose which apps are available, and control how access changes over time. More on TechCrunch.
In kitchen and lifestyle gadget news, I’m excited to see that the Shark and Ninja brands have arrived in South Africa. Shark carries a range of hair tools, vacuum cleaners and fans while Ninja offers ice-cream makers and blenders. I’ve got my eye on the 530ml Ninja Blast portable blender that uses USB-C to charge. I would absolutely take it on holiday!
If you’re following the FIFA World Cup, but let’s be honest, it doesn’t have the same vibe to it as when South Africa hosted (aside from the blatant racism being faced by teams traveling to the US), Kaspersky has shared tips on how to avoid falling victim to FIFA related scams, while Meta shares tools on how to stay safe from harassment online. Read more in our scam warning article:
If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s almost time for FNB’s annual price increase, alongside an update to eBucks, which kicks in on 1 July. Here are some of the changes highlighted, according to the bank in a recent video call with media. Catch up on Recharged.co.za
After spending some time in Toyota’s RAV4 plug-in hybrid, the vehicle has finally launched in South Africa. The next-gen RAV4 has been completely redesigned, offers various electrified powertrains, new safety technologies and a more connected digital experience. It is Toyota’s answer to the influx of Chinese HEVs and PHEVs hitting the market, for those seeking offerings from a legacy, trusted brand.
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Still on the topic of electrified powertrains, the iCaur brand has also landed, after months of sneak peeks of the 03T and V23 models. The retro-inspired iCaur V23 is customisable, packs in the latest tech and with its under 60kWh battery that promises 360km of range, it comes in at R520 000. All the deets on Recharged.
What are your thoughts on the fuel costs and impact it has on your household? A business owner friend recently shared they had spent R10 000 on fuel in a single month (R2500 per tank) and immediately purchased a BYD Dolphin Surf, within a day of viewing it. Are you any closer to switching to a new-energy vehicle?
Reads you may want to catch up on:
Till next time,
Nafisa