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iOS 18.3 Fixes iMessage Spyware Vulnerability Related to Nickname Feature
Recent forensic evidence suggests that a rare iPhone crash linked to an iMessage bug may be indicative of targeted spyware attempts, although Apple remains skeptical. The iMessage vulnerability, discovered by the security firm iVerify, affected how iPhones handled nickname updates within the Messages app.
Apple has since patched the flaw, named “Nickname,” in the iOS 18.3 update. The issue was connected to the Share Name and Photo feature, which allows users to share their chosen name and profile picture when messaging.
The researchers found that a bug in the processing of these nickname updates could lead to a remote crash of the Messages app. By sending a specific sequence of nickname changes, attackers could exploit a memory error in a system process known as “imagent.”
This type of vulnerability requires no user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it only needs the target’s phone number and Apple ID. iVerify analyzed crash logs from nearly 50,000 devices between April 2024 and January 2025, discovering that the crashes linked to the Nickname bug were extremely rare and mostly found on phones used by individuals holding sensitive positions.
Notably, one high-ranking European Union official experienced a crash that aligned with the vulnerability and later received a threat alert from Apple. In response, Apple’s head of Security Engineering, Ivan Krstic, stated that the company does not support claims of a targeted attack and believes the issue was merely a software bug.
He pointed out that no credible evidence exists to suggest exploitation in real-world attacks. While Apple employs advanced security features to protect users, the incident underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and being cautious of unknown messages.
Users, especially those in sensitive fields, should consider enabling additional security measures such as Lockdown Mode and stay vigilant against potential threats.
Developers Seek App Store Advantages Without the Associated Costs
Developers now have the ability to direct users within their apps to make subscription payments outside of the App Store; however, this shift comes with several complications. In the United States, Apple is required to allow developers to link to their websites or third-party payment systems. While this could be viewed as an opportunity to circumvent the so-called “Apple tax,” some industry observers argue that many developers are simply looking for a way to avoid paying fees for services that benefit their business. For instance, Sam Liang, CEO of Otter, expressed frustration over losing 30% of subscription revenue to Apple, labeling the situation as “completely insane.”
Yet, it prompts the question of whether similar fees imposed by other companies—like Microsoft’s in the Xbox Store—are labeled as a “Microsoft tax” or whether retail partners impose a “retail tax.” Interestingly, developments like Cameo, which allows users to buy personalized messages from celebrities, had to work tirelessly on alternative payment options. This raises the question of how their business model would fare if there wasn’t Apple facilitating access to a large user base through the App Store. Furthermore, while Otter’s platform has grown thanks to Apple’s ecosystem, its CEO’s complaints about fees overlook the significant advantages provided by the App Store.
Apple has undeniably shaped today’s app marketplace, making it easier for developers to reach global audiences without bearing the costs associated with traditional retail. The feasibility of moving payments out of Apple’s ecosystem remains in question, with some developers considering discounts as incentives. For example, yoga app Down Dog has successfully transitioned a portion of its subscribers away from Apple while facing challenges typical of external payment options. Developers rely on Apple while simultaneously critiquing its fees, but both parties ultimately need each other to thrive.
Consequently, the future relationship between app developers and Apple will likely evolve as this landscape continues to change.
Beware: Fake iPhone Texts Claiming DMV Fines Are Circulating
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting iPhone users with fraudulent text messages that impersonate government authorities, warning of imaginary deadlines and overdue fines. Recently, a staff member received a message from the “Tennessee Department of Vehicles,” claiming that failure to pay for an alleged traffic ticket by June 8 could result in legal action, license suspension, and damage to their credit score. The text provided a link to a counterfeit payment site and encouraged recipients to reply with the letter “Y” to activate the link. These scams are not confined to Tennessee; similar messages have emerged in states such as Texas, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Despite slight variations in wording and agency names, the common thread is a threat of legal consequences accompanied by a deceptive payment link. This suggests a coordinated nationwide campaign designed to make the messages appear more localized and believable. The tactics employed in these scams are blatant phishing attempts. For instance, the text referenced a fictitious “North Tennessee State Administrative Code” while containing several red flags.
The link in the message was a spoofed domain unrelated to any legitimate government service, and it originated from a foreign number with a Philippine country code, (+63). As reported in March, scams involving unpaid tolls and tickets have become increasingly rampant, leveraging over 60,000 fake domains to extract sensitive financial information from users. The proliferation of these scams can be attributed to the low cost and ease of mass text messaging. Criminal organizations, including those suspected of operating from overseas, utilize bulk texting platforms to reach countless individuals.
Even a small percentage of favorable responses can yield significant financial returns. To protect yourself from such scams, avoid engaging with any suspicious text messages. Do not click links or reply, even with a simple “Y.” Such responses may confirm your number’s activity and lead to further targeting.
Instead, block the sender, report the scamming message, and verify any suspected debts through official channels. Look for common characteristics of scam texts, including unfamiliar agency names, strange domain suffixes, or threats urging immediate action. By staying vigilant, you can help safeguard your personal information.
Trump Administration Expected to Postpone TikTok Ban Once More
The Trump administration has once again suspended the TikTok ban, leaving its future in limbo. This ongoing situation is largely fueled by trade tensions between the U.S. and China, creating a backdrop of uncertainty.
Recent reports indicate that President Trump is likely to push back the ban date for a third time, as discussions for a potential sale are stalled, continuing to prolong the app’s status. This postponement comes earlier than previous delays, which often occurred just before or even after a deadline.
For instance, during his second term, Trump rolled back a ban just two days after it was enforced under the Biden administration. He had initially given TikTok two and a half months to secure a sale to an American company before facing a nationwide ban, which was set to go into effect on April 5.
However, he delayed this decision until April 4, granting the company a 75-day extension until June 18. ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has stated that no agreements are currently in place for the app’s future ownership.
Additionally, any potential agreement would require approval under Chinese law, highlighting the complexities involved. Since mid-2020, TikTok’s fate has fluctuated, particularly when the Trump administration first threatened a ban unless a sale to an American buyer occurred.
Although it appeared the ban was off the table during much of the Biden administration, new legislation signed in April 2024 required ByteDance to divest its ownership within nine months. Trump’s attitude toward TikTok has notably shifted since his first term.
Once an outspoken critic advocating for the app’s ban, he now acknowledges TikTok as a vital tool for connecting with younger voters. In late May, he expressed his desire to “save TikTok,” indicating a significant change in perspective.
While a proposal to create “TikTok America” was suggested, aiming to allocate ownership favorably to U.S. investors, it has gained little traction. As the ambiguity surrounding TikTok continues, it remains to be seen whether the Trump administration will maintain this pattern of extensions and what legal ramifications may arise.
Wacom Cintiq Update: Features Pro Pen 3 and a Sleeker, Quieter Design
Wacom is set to release a refreshed line of Cintiq pen displays in summer 2025, featuring the Cintiq 16, Cintiq 24, and Cintiq 24 Touch. The new models will boast a slimmer design, sharper visuals, and enhanced customization options, marking a significant shift in Wacom’s approach to its midrange offerings. Positioned between the entry-level One tablets and the high-end Cintiq Pro series, these models signal that professional-grade tools are becoming more accessible to a wider range of creators.
These displays are designed specifically for use with macOS and Windows computers, excluding compatibility with iPads or iPhones. Users will need to install Wacom drivers on a Mac to fully utilize features such as pressure sensitivity and customization. A key highlight of this launch is the introduction of Wacom’s Pro Pen 3, now available in the standard Cintiq line for the first time.
The pen offers improved sampling rates and advanced pressure sensitivity, enhancing precision for artists engaged in drawing, painting, and photo editing. Its ergonomic design caters to those requiring flexibility during extended sessions, and its availability, along with an optional wood grip accessory, may particularly appeal to animators and motion graphic artists. The Cintiq 16 features a 16.0-inch display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600, while the Cintiq 24 and 24 Touch present a 23.8-inch panel at 2560 x 1440. Notable advancements include anti-glare etched glass and a streamlined design, with the Cintiq 24 being nearly half the thickness of its predecessor.
As Wacom faces increased competition from brands like Huion and XP-Pen, which offer similar products at lower prices, the introduction of the Pro Pen 3 and touch functionality in the Cintiq 24 Touch seeks to reinforce Wacom’s position in the market. Pricing has been set to appeal to students and design professionals, with the Cintiq 16 priced at $699.95, the Cintiq 24 at $1,299.95, and the Cintiq 24 Touch at $1,499.95. These models will be available in summer 2025, aimed at those seeking a balance of portability, performance, and value.
Solutions to Resolve Crashes in iOS 18.5 Mail App
There have been reports from some users experiencing issues with the iPhone Mail app displaying a blank screen after upgrading to iOS 18.5. Luckily, this isn’t a widespread issue, and some users have discovered potential fixes. The latest version of iOS 18 was released on May 12, but reports of the Mail app freezing began to surface on Apple’s community support site starting June 4.
Numerous users have reported similar experiences, highlighting the same problem. One user expressed frustration, stating, “Since I did the 18.5 update, my phone freezes every time I open Mail.” This user and his wife both encountered the issue, each owning an iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro, respectively.
Another contributor mentioned that the problem arose only after June 4, noting that the Mail app worked seamlessly before that date. Others pointed out that this freezing issue is not exclusive to iPhone 13 models. Reports have also emerged on various forums, such as Reddit, which all point to the Mail app functioning correctly until June 4.
This timing suggests that Apple may have altered something on their Mail servers that day, possibly leading to the problem. To address the issue, some users reported that restarting the device temporarily resolved the problem. Others noted that disabling a VPN configuration helped, although not everyone using the Mail app had a VPN setup.
One user shared that Apple Support advised performing a force restart of their iPhone, while another was told to reset their network settings. A reset can be done by navigating to Settings, General, Transfer or Reset, then Reset, and finally selecting Reset Network Settings. Additionally, uninstalling and reinstalling the Mail app has worked for some users.
Notably, many haven’t experienced this issue since the 18.5 update. The issue seems more prevalent for users with Gmail accounts and affects all email accounts. It is anticipated that Apple will release an 18.5.1 version to address various bugs, potentially fixing the Mail app problem.
Users also remarked that alternative email applications function without similar issues.
Bill Atkinson, Mac Engineer, Passes Away at 74 After Battle with Pancreatic Cancer
William D. “Bill” Atkinson, a pioneering engineer integral to the early development of the Macintosh’s graphical user interfaces, passed away on June 5 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. His family shared this sad news via a Facebook post, revealing that he died at home in Portola Valley, surrounded by loved ones. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, stepson, stepdaughter, two brothers, four sisters, and his beloved dog, Poppy. Atkinson’s career at Apple spanned from 1978 to 1990, where he made significant contributions that still impact technology today.
Notably, he invented the menu bar, the selection lasso, and the iconic “marching ants” animation used for item selection. Additionally, he discovered a midpoint circle algorithm that facilitated the fast drawing of circles on-screen. Recruited as Apple Employee No. 51 by Steve Jobs, he contributed to the development of the first Macintosh and served as the principal designer of the Lisa’s graphical user interface—an innovative concept at the time.
One of Atkinson’s hallmark achievements was the creation of HyperCard, a groundbreaking hypermedia tool he likened to a “software erector set.” Introduced in 1987, HyperCard revolutionized Macintosh software development. After leaving Apple in 1990, Atkinson joined General Magic alongside other notable figures, including Andy Hertzfeld and Marc Porat. In 2007, he became involved with Numenta, a company focused on artificial intelligence.
Meanwhile, he pursued his passion for nature photography, with his works still available through a personal website. Colleagues and friends remember Atkinson fondly, particularly through Hertzfeld’s folklore.org, which documents his time at Apple. His family summed up his life by stating, “He was a remarkable person, and the world will be forever different because he lived in it.”
How to Stream WWDC 2025 for iPhone, Mac, and Apple TV Users
Apple’s most significant software event of the year, WWDC 2025, is set to commence on June 9 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. This keynote is expected to showcase the most substantial redesign of Apple’s software interfaces in over a decade. You can watch the event live on Apple’s official website, the Apple TV app, and YouTube. The upcoming keynote will introduce “Solarium,” a new system-wide design that aims to provide a consistent visual experience across several platforms, including iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.
Rumored updates may feature rounded corners, layered transparency, and a unified layout inspired by the aesthetics of visionOS. The livestream will begin at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time on June 9, translating to 6:00 p.m. in the United Kingdom and 7:00 p.m. in Central Europe. For viewers in Japan and Australia, the event can be accessed early the following morning at 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. local time, respectively. In addition to the keynote, Apple will host the Platforms State of the Union at 1:00 p.m. Pacific, offering developers insights into new tools, frameworks, and APIs relevant to iOS, macOS, watchOS, and more.
This session will stream on the Apple Developer app and the developer website, providing valuable information for developers looking to build apps across Apple’s platforms. This year’s WWDC is particularly crucial as it emphasizes a complete overhaul in design, aiming for better visual alignment across all devices. While AI features will likely be discussed, the primary focus remains on creating a cohesive user experience. The event will adhere to a hybrid format, allowing a small in-person audience at Apple Park, while the majority can tune in online.
Apple unlikely to introduce new hardware at WWDC 2025 event, speculation suggests.
Apple’s upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is anticipated to be a software-focused event, with no new hardware expected to be announced. Traditionally a significant occasion for developers, WWDC primarily showcases software advancements, even though hardware has occasionally been featured in the past. This year, according to Mark Gurman in his “Power On” newsletter for Bloomberg, Apple will not unveil any new devices during the keynote on Monday. While Apple does have new hardware on the horizon, including the iPhone 17, updated Apple Watch models, and refreshed Mac computers, these are set to debut at the usual fall events.
There have also been rumors about a new AirTag being in development, but Gurman suggests it is not noteworthy enough for a WWDC appearance. Historically, the conference has seen substantial announcements, such as the introduction of the Apple Vision Pro, but it seems this year will be different. Focusing on software, Apple seems committed to enhancing its existing offerings rather than branching out into new hardware categories. After facing criticism surrounding delays related to Apple Intelligence in 2024, it’s clear the company wants to prioritize fixing and improving its software lineup in 2025.
Among the expected software highlights, Apple plans to present a glass-like aesthetic for visionOS, which will extend to iOS 26 and other platforms to create visual consistency. Additionally, there will be changes to version numbering to alleviate future confusion. The anticipated updates for Apple Intelligence may be more subdued than initially expected due to the slow rollout of features, which suggests fewer significant changes will be introduced. However, there remains anticipation for foundational model access for third-party developers, improvements to the Translate app, and enhancements to Siri and AirPods.
Apple Trade-In: Get Cash for Your Used iPhone, iPad, and AirPods
Apple has an impressive range of products catering to various needs and preferences. Among the most popular are the Mac computers, which combine powerful performance with sleek designs, making them a favorite for both professionals and everyday users. Another standout product is the iPad.
This versatile device is ideal for both work and play, suitable for tasks ranging from taking notes to streaming movies. The Apple Watch also enhances productivity and wellness, offering features that monitor health metrics and keep users connected on the go. For audio enthusiasts, AirPods and Beats headphones provide high-quality sound and wireless convenience, allowing users to enjoy their favorite music or podcasts without any hassle.
Meanwhile, the iPhone remains a flagship product, renowned for its cutting-edge technology, exceptional camera capabilities, and user-friendly interface. In the realm of home entertainment, Apple offers Apple TV, which transforms any space into a multimedia hub. The Vision lineup further enriches user experiences, providing innovative solutions for viewing and interacting with media.
To complement its hardware offerings, Apple has an array of accessories to enhance device functionality and personalization. Additionally, for tech lovers, there’s the option to explore the world of drones, expanding the possibilities for photography and videography. For those looking to upgrade their devices, Apple’s Trade-In program offers a convenient way to exchange old products for credit towards new purchases.
Apple also regularly features enticing deals, with discounts that can range from 10% to 25% on various items. However, it’s important to note that alerts for product availability or sales are not issued via Amazon.