Welcome to our monthly Apple News Roundup. This column recaps the top 10 most significant Apple news announcements from each month, giving you a glance at all the headlines you need to know. This edition features the highlights from February 2023.
1. Apple announces first quarter results
On February 2, the company posted quarterly revenue of $117.2 billion, down 5 percent year over year. An all-time high was hit for all major product categories, and services set an all-time revenue record.
“As we all continue to navigate a challenging environment, we are proud to have our best lineup of products and services ever, and as always, we remain focused on the long term and are leading with our values in everything we do,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO.
2. Apple holds its ‘AI Summit’ in person
Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, it had been almost three years since Apple held an event in person. In February, the company held its annual in-house “AI Summit” at the Steve Jobs Theater once again. The summit, similar to Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), was private for employees only and live-streamed for those who were unable to attend. It has been reported that Apple is easing its COVID-19 policies, and employees are no longer required to test for COVID-19.
3. Apple names its first-ever ‘Chief People Officer’
Carol Surface joined Apple as its new Chief People Officer after nearly a decade at medical device company, Medtronic. Surface will officially start at Apple in March, reporting directly to Apple CEO Tim Cook. This addition to the leadership team includes realignment of the role of Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail + People — Surface will be taking over her human resources responsibilities.
4. Apple software update fixes a security issue
Apple issued its iOS 16.3.1 software update which provided bug and security fixes for the iPhone. The company stated that WebKit was impacted — a browser engine used in Apple’s Safari web browser. The update is available for iPhone 8 and later models, all models of the iPad Pro, the third-generation and fifth-generation iPad Air and later, and the fifth-generation iPad mini and later.
5. What’s in the cards for the next Apple event?
Apple typically holds several events per year — during the spring, summer, and fall. Recent information suggests that the reveal of the Reality Pro VR headset may be postponed from April until June at WWDC 2023. More than likely Apple will still hold an event in April to show off other new products. A 15-inch MacBook Air has been rumored and Apple is slated to unveil iOS 17, iPadOS 7, macOS14, and more at WWDC. Additionally, signs are pointing to an iPhone 15 launch in September 2023.
6. Apple releases macOS Ventura 13.2.1
The release of macOS Ventura 13.2.1 brought Mac users important bug fixes and security updates, including added support for physical security keys and the Rapid Security Response System for urgent security fixes. This new version coincides with the release of iOS 16.3.1 and HomePod Software 16.3.2. Head to System Settings > General > Software Update to see if it’s available on your Mac.
7. New advancements in heart health with Apple Watch
Apple Watch’s heart health features include high and low heart notifications, Cardio Fitness, irregular rhythm notifications, the ECG app, and AFib History. To improve overall health, Apple launched the Investigator Support Program and provided researchers with Apple Watch devices. This enabled them to break new ground in health research and scientifically understand the heart. A new study plans to monitor heart rate and rhythm, sleep, blood oxygen, activity data, and more.
8. Apple press event reveals advancements in gaming
Apple invited members of the press and influencers to take a closer look at games coming to iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Mac this year. Tom’s Guide reported that the event showed off Apple Arcade’s lineup on Apple TV, inventive fitness games from the Apple Entrepreneur Camp, and more. This list included Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile, Lego Starwars castaways, and The Medium, to name a few.
9. Breakthroughs in blood glucose monitoring for Apple Watch
Apple has reportedly been working on bringing blood glucose monitoring features to the Apple Watch over the years. According to a Bloomberg report, the company has had several major breakthroughs recently. Apple’s engineers are focused on developing a “prototype device roughly the size of an iPhone that can be strapped to a person’s bicep.” Apple’s system is still in the “proof-of-concept stage”, but the company now “believes the technology is viable.”
10. MLS Season Pass available on the Apple TV app
Starting February 1, fans signed up to enjoy a wide variety of Major League Soccer content in preparation for the 2023 season that kicked off on February 25. The MLS Season Pass is the home to all MLS and Leagues Cup matches and is available on the Apple TV app — in more than 100 countries and regions. The full 2023 MLS season schedule is available at mlssoccer.com/schedule.
