337 - Watch For an Apple Rosie the Robot Vacuum

The latest In Touch With iOS with Dave he is joined by guests Mike Potter, Chuck Joiner, and Marty Jencius. We discuss the newly released Vision OS 2.3 Beta 1. We also dive into the beta releases of iOS and iPadOS 18.3, including the intriguing integration of Chat GPT into Siri, and tackle the varying user reception of AI features like Genmoji. The discussion extends to the evolving capabilities of AirTags in tracking lost baggage, and the implications of recent Apple Mail updates. We reflect on Apple Maps' adoption in light of new features and explore the impact of AirPods following their eight-year anniversary, along with updates in Apple TV Plus programming.


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Summary


First on the agenda is the newly released Vision OS 2.3 Beta 1. We explore the lack of significant updates in this beta, with some initial snooping revealing nothing groundbreaking. However, we note an intriguing patent publication from Apple regarding design enhancements and features for the Vision Pro, including patents for patented light seals and cushions. As we speculate about the future of Vision OS, there's much excitement around the potential for an affordable next-generation headset expected by 2026.


We then shift gears to the beta releases of iOS and iPadOS 18.3, just shortly after the rollout of 18.2. The discussion touches on the latest features and improvements, including the incorporation of Chat GPT integration into Siri, which offers fascinating potential even as we consider user sentiment toward AI functionality. Our conversation reveals a varied reception to features like Genmoji, showcasing generational differences in engagement with AI technology.


Additionally, we reflect on recent advancements in the Apple ecosystem, including the increasingly integrated capabilities of AirTags, especially concerning airlines adopting tracking features for lost baggage. A noteworthy accessory for AirTags, the Time Capsule, promises ten years of battery life, highlighting user concerns about battery longevity.


Our dynamic panel contrasts user experiences with Apple Mail updates in iOS 18.2, revealing varied preferences and the impact of Gmail-inspired features. We also address the importance of Apple maintaining accessibility in their backups, especially after recent announcements regarding iCloud backup changes for older devices.


Another major topic is Apple Maps, now supporting Look Around on the web, which stimulates a broader conversation about user adoption of Apple's mapping services compared to Google Maps. We speculate about the future developments of AI functionalities, notably OpenAI's new initiative allowing voice interaction via a dedicated phone line, underscoring an effort to make AI more accessible.


To wrap up, we discuss the success and impact of the AirPods after eight years since their launch, reflecting on their evolution and market reception. We also cover some current events in Apple TV Plus programming, particularly the announcement of a second season for the series "Bad Monkey."


Topics and Links


In Touch With Vision Pro this week. 


visionOS 2.3 beta 1 now available, plus tvOS 18.3, watchOS 11.3  (https://9to5mac.com/2024/12/16/vision...)


Apple is already working on visionOS 3.0 and visionOS 2.4 (https://appleinsider.com/articles/24/...)


Today Apple won 36 patents covering Vision Pro, Embedded Optical Sensors in a Micro-led Display for a MacBook & more (https://www.patentlyapple.com/2024/12....