Apple released its new iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro smartphones with eSIM cards and Emergency SOS via satellite. Apple also released its new Watch Series 8, Watch SE, and Watch Ultra smartwatches.
iOS 16 is available on September 12, 2022 for download. This version makes the Fitness app all iPhone users, and includes messages and map changes. WatchOS 9 is also available on September 12 and has several new updates, including Compass and workout app changes.
Samsung has reported a cybersecurity incident that affected the data of some of its U.S. customers in September 2022. Samsung is in the process of contacting these customers by email. More information is at the Samsung FAQ page.
Google released ChromeOS Flex, a free cloud-based secure operating system for older PCs and Macs in July 2022. Potential users should check if their device is on Google’s list of computers models that are certified to work with ChromeOS Flex. Documentation is available at chromeenterprise.google/os/chromeosflex and at the Chrome OS Flex Help site.
Apple is hosting its free online Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) from June 6 to June 10. 2022. Session information and other details can be found at developer.apple.com/wwdc22/.
Google’s Self-Repair Program for Google Chromebooks has instructions and manuals for schools to help them make repairs locally. Additional help can be found at the Chromebook Help Center and Chrome Education and Enterprise Help Center.
Microsoft will hold its annual technology Build event from May 24 to May 26, 2022. Registration is free; more information is available at the event FAQ page.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a U.S. government benefit program designed to help low-income families pay for internet service. This is part of the government’s Internet For All initiative which has several programs to increase availability of high-speed internet services.
People who filed valid claims as part of the earlier Equifax data breach can request free credit monitoring. Equifax has emailed activation codes to these claimants and these codes must be used by June 27, 2022. More information about this legal settlement can be found at www.equifaxbreachsettlement.com.
Apple announced the release of several new products on March 8, 2022, including:
A.T.&T. has shut down its 3G wireless network as of February 22, 2022. T-Mobile will shut down its 3G network during the spring and summer of 2022, and Verizon has its 3G network shutdown date as December 31, 2022.
The FCC has more information and resources available at its 3G page. This transition may affect older smartphones, tablets, smart watches, vehicle GPS and road assistance devices, alarm systems, and medical devices. Some vehicles may also lose Automatic Crash Notification due to the 3G shutdown.