Digest

This podcast episode covers several key announcements and rumors in the Apple ecosystem. Firstly, it details the expansion of Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging support in iOS 18.4 to multiple US carriers, including Google Fi, Mint Mobile, and Boost Mobile. This significantly improves texting between iPhones and Android devices. Secondly, the episode discusses anticipated design changes for upcoming iPhones. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to be thicker than its predecessor to accommodate a larger battery, while the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be exceptionally thin. Both phones are expected to have similar dimensions, except for thickness. Finally, the podcast highlights a Brazilian court order compelling Apple to allow third-party app stores on iOS, echoing similar legislation in the European Union. Apple's opposition to this ruling, citing user privacy and security concerns, is also discussed. The ruling aims to increase competition within the app market.

Outlines

00:00:00

iOS 18.4 Updates & iPhone 17 Design Changes

iOS 18.4 expands RCS messaging to several US carriers (Google Fi, Mint Mobile, Boost Mobile, etc.). Rumors suggest a thicker iPhone 17 Pro Max (larger battery) and a thinner iPhone 17 Air. Brazil mandates Apple open its iOS ecosystem to third-party app stores, mirroring EU legislation.

Keywords

Q&A

• What new carriers now support RCS messaging through iOS 18.4?

  iOS 18.4 expands RCS support to include Google Fi, Mint Mobile, Boost Mobile, and other T-Mobile MVNOs.

• What are the rumored design changes for the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Air?

  The iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to be thicker for a larger battery, while the iPhone 17 Air will be Apple's thinnest iPhone.

• How is Brazil's ruling on Apple's App Store similar to the EU's?

  Both the EU and Brazil have mandated that Apple open its iOS ecosystem to third-party app stores to increase competition.

• What are the potential benefits of RCS messaging?

  Benefits include improved features like read receipts and high-quality image sharing.

Show Notes

Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players.

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Stories discussed in this episode:

• iOS 18.4 brings RCS messaging to some of the last big carrier holdouts





• Rumor: iPhone 17 Pro Max will be thicker to make room for a bigger battery





• Brazilian court gives Apple 90 days to allow sideloading on iOS

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