iPhone News

New ‘IP Box’ tool unlocks iPhone PINs via brute force attacks

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 30, 2018

A new device is causing commotion around the interwebs today, that has the ability to unlock PIN-protected iOS devices. The tool, first spotlighted by security firm MDSec, is being used in the phone repair markets to brute-force iPhone and iPad Lock screens.

According to MDSec, these 'IP Boxes' are about the size of an Apple TV, and you can acquire one for around $300. It works by simulating the PIN entry on a device over a USB connection, and is able to sequentially bruteforce every possible PIN combination.

Create your perfect Apple Watch with this web tool

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 30, 2018

Apple's Watch release is still at least a month away, but thanks to 'mix your watch,' you can start building one now. The interactive web tool allows you to create your perfect Apple Watch by customizing the case color, band color and band material.

It uses stock images from Apple's website, and an image-based UI that allows you to customize each element. So if you want to see what a dark aluminum case would look like with a black leather band, simply select them, and watch the colors change.

Apple enables two-step verification for FaceTime and iMessages

Cody Lee ∙ February 12, 2015

Apple has enabled two-step verification for its FaceTime and iMessage services, The Guardian reported on Thursday. The move will force users who have the authentication system enabled to input an app-specific password when logging into either of the two services.

For those unfamiliar with the term, two-step verification is an opt-in system that adds an additional layer of security to Apple ID accounts. It requires users to input authentication codes when logging into iCloud on new devices, the web, and now iMessage and FaceTime.

Unlocking your iPhone gets a little bit easier today

Cody Lee ∙ February 11, 2015

The process of unlocking your iPhone became a little bit easier today in the United States. Today marks the deadline for wireless carriers to adopt the unlocking standards of the late-2013 agreement set forth by the CTIA.

The agreement is industry-wide, and mandates that carriers adhere to 6 rules including clearly posting their unlocking policies online, and offering to unlock postpaid handsets once the customer's contract has expired.

Report: iPhone 6 Plus users consume twice the data of iPhone 6 users

Cody Lee ∙ Updated January 27, 2016

Owners of larger smartphones tend to use a lot more data than those with smaller screens, according to a new report from Citrix. The marketing research firm found that, on average, iPhone 6 Plus users consume twice the data of those with an iPhone 6.

While it makes sense that the 6 Plus would eat more data due to its larger display, Citrix thinks the difference has more to do with user behavior. People are treating the 6 Plus like they would a tablet, playing more games and streaming a lot more video.

Google Classroom app lands on iPhone and iPad

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 30, 2018

Google today launched mobile apps on iOS and Android for its Classroom initiative. The service, which has seen 30+ million assignments submitted since its debut last summer, aims to help teachers save time, paper, and improve communication with students.

The app adds even more efficiency, allowing teachers to issue and track assignments from their phone or tablet. Students will enjoy it as well, as it lets them view and work on homework, with the ability to import from other apps, and live chat with classmates.

ZAGG offering 20% off everything sitewide this week

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 8, 2017

Folks who picked up a new smartphone or tablet over the holidays, or are just in the market for some new accessories, will want to visit ZAGG's online store this week. From now through January 9th, the manufacturer is offering 20% off of everything sitewide.

ZAGG makes a wide variety of products for both iOS and Android devices, including headphones, cases and of course the InvisibleShield screen protectors. It also has a line of highly regarded tablet keyboards, which will see significant discounts during this promo.

Apple to begin selling SIM-free iPhone 6 and 6 Plus models in the US this week

Cody Lee ∙ January 5, 2015

Apple will begin selling fully unlocked, SIM-free iPhone 6 and 6 Plus models in the United States this week, according to a new report from 9to5Mac. Citing sources familiar with the launch, the site's Mark Gurman says that the unlocked iPhones will be available starting January 6th via Apple's online and retail stores.

New report claims Apple is considering return of 4-inch iPhone in 2015

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

A new report claims Apple is considering the return of the 4-inch iPhone in 2015. In a note to investors (via AppleInsider), analyst Timothy Arcuri of Cowen and Company said he believes Apple could launch three new versions of its handset next year.

Citing sources in the Asian supply chain, Arcuri calls the 4-inch device the "iPhone 6s mini," and says it will likely feature specs similar to the iPhone 5s. Additionally, the phone will sport improved internals, and a curved design akin to the iPhone 6.

Tempo Smart Calendar updated with widget, interactive notifications and more

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

Tempo Smart Calendar for iOS just received a big update, bringing the app to version 1.6. The update allows the app to take full advantage of the new functionality in iOS 8, adding a new Notification Center widget and support for interactive notifications.

With the new Tempo Widget, users can see their upcoming events, as well as information about their next immediate meeting. And with interactive notifications, users can get directions, dial-in to conference calls, and check on things like their flight status.

Facebook’s ‘Stickered for Messenger’ app now available on iOS

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

Facebook this evening released its odd 'Stickered for Messenger' app for iOS. First released on Android last week, Stickered allows users to add some fun stickers to their photos before sending them off to friends and family on Messenger.

More specifically, the app allows you to snap a photo, or pull one in from your camera roll, and pick from hundreds of stickers to apply. You can move the images around, resize them, and then pop into Messenger to send off your work.

Amazon Instant Video updated with support for iPhone 6 and 6 Plus

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

Amazon updated its Instant Video streaming app today, bringing it to version 2.9.5. As the build number indicates, it's a fairly small update, but it should make users happy with its improved support for the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus.

This means that streaming videos should look better on the larger, higher resolution displays of Apple's newer handsets, as should the app's menu system. You can now see more content in a single glance, making navigation easier.