This digest compiles the latest from Apple Insider.
Today’s Apple Insider Roundup
Apple is distilling Google Gemini into smaller chunks for on-iPhone AI processing
Apple is cutting down Google Gemini’s massive models into smaller and more secure parts through distillation, to create elements that are more suited to on-device Apple Intelligence processing.
The deal Apple made with Google allows the iPhone maker to use Google’s Gemini AI models as a basis for its own updated AI. It now appears that the deal lets Apple use some techniques to make models that will work better for on-device processing than the mainly server-based Gemini itself.
It was previously known that Apple could adjust the Google Gemini model to respond to queries in specific ways. However, according to The Information on Wednesday, Apple has a lot more leeway in what it can do and access within the model.
Developers finally get more App Store data from Apple
Apple has revamped its App Store Connect service for developers, allowing for over 100 new metrics to help track in-app purchase trends and more.
App Store Connect was launched in 2018 as an improvement on, and a replacement for, the previously long-standing iTunes Connect service. It streamlined how developers could access what App Store data Apple made available, but Apple famously does not release as much as its rivals.
Now Apple has announced an expanded and refreshed App Store Connect, which it calls its “biggest update since its launch.” It includes the improved ability for developers to compare the performance of their app against those of competitors.
Ugreen NASync iDX6011 Pro NAS review: The right kind of overkill
The Ugreen NASync iDX6011 Pro AI NAS is overkill for average consumer and small business network storage needs, but its capabilities will be attractive to enthusiasts — even if the AI isn’t great yet.
Over the years, AppleInsider has seen network-attached storage options grow in scope. Effectively a cut-down computer that focused on storage above all else, the format has evolved to bring more utility.
Apps allowed users to do things like run Plex servers or other services on their home network. This was previously in a restrained manner, due to the limitations of the included hardware in most cases.
M4 iPad Air review: Middle of the road is the best place to be
Apple’s M4 iPad Air refresh is overkill for nearly every tablet task, and sits in a strange but welcome spot between the iPad and iPad Pro.
Recently, the iPad Air has been simultaneously a compromise and upgrade sitting in the middle of on the iPad roster. It provides users with more performance than they’d get on the base iPad, but without hitting the sometimes-nosebleed pricing of the premium iPad Pro.
This is why it’s been our recommended iPad for most users. It’s most of an iPad Pro, more than an entry-level iPad, at a solid price point.
There's an app for that – Iranians monitor air strikes with crowdsourced data
Iranian citizens are trying to keep themselves safe during the war with the U.S. with a crowdsourced iOS app, but most users are located outside of Iran’s borders, out of direct danger.
Warning citizens about airstrikes and troop maneuvers are critical during a war. However, sometimes that information isn’t being passed out by authorities to the public, simply because there’s no system to do that in the first place.
With no official warning system for incoming airstrikes in Iran, its citizens are fixing the problem for themselves.
Nine Apple TV shows nominated for UK's Bafta television awards
Apple TV has scored 15 nominations across the UK’s most prestigious awards, including multiple nods for “Slow Horses,” and “Severance.”
Nine of Apple TV’s most acclaimed series have been nominated in two further awards. Following its nominations for the Bafta Film Awards, Apple TV is now also recognized in both Bafta’s TV and TV Craft awards.
Across these two Bafta awards events, nine Apple TV series have received a total of 15 nominations:
Amazon's Big Spring Sale drops stainless steel Apple Watch S9 with cellular to $299
The GPS + Cellular Apple Watch Series 9 with a stainless steel case is on sale for $299 today only as Amazon kicks off its Big Spring Sale event.
Originally retailing for $699, the $400 discount on the blowout Apple Watch Series 9 is valid today only at Amazon. The 41mm S9 has GPS + Cellular capability, along with a Silver Stainless Steel Case and Storm Blue Sport Band.
End of today’s Apple Insider roundup.
