TouchArcade Goes Hands-On With Devolver Digital’s Upcoming iOS Game ‘Reigns: Game of Thrones’

Our sister site TouchArcade this week went hands-on with the just-announced iOS game “Reigns: Game of Thrones.” For those unaware, “Reigns” is a series of games created by Devolver Digital that tasks players with making important monarchical decisions using a simple left swipe and right swipe mechanic.

The first two games in the series [Direct Links: Reigns and Reigns: Her Majesty] focused on generic characters in medieval and renaissance eras. Now the developer has partnered with HBO to meld the “Reigns” gameplay mechanics with characters, events, and locations from “Game of Thrones” and George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series as a whole.

In “Reigns: Game of Thrones,” players take the viewpoint of a character gazing into the flames of the Red Priestess Melisandre, witnessing the potential outcome of events without those events specifically tying into plot points from the books and HBO series.

As TouchArcade points out, this enhances “Reigns: Game of Thrones,” since it gives fans of the fantasy series numerous “what if” scenarios to watch play out:

This allows them to utilize the Game of Thrones universe and its associated characters while having plot lines in the game that are best described as “zany,” in a good way- With many “what if” scenarios, like exploring what would happen if Sansa Stark married Jamie Lannister.

Unlike previous “Reigns” titles, the Game of Thrones spinoff tasks you with controlling numerous point-of-view characters instead of just one king or one queen. These include well-known Game of Thrones characters like Daenerys, Tyrion, Jon, Cersei, and more, with each character needing to manage relationships with the military, church, public, and all facing negative status effects and even potential death.

TouchArcade explains that watching your decisions play out leads to a fun gameplay experience, for both Game of Thrones fans and non-fans:

The interesting thing about the way this game is written is that if you know Game of Thrones, Reigns: Game of Thrones will be like main lining fan service. If you don’t know Game of Thrones, it’ll be just as enjoyable as any other Reigns games, you might just not understand some references (or the significance of some of the events).

For more coverage, be sure to read Eli Hodapp’s full hands on with “Reigns: Game of Thrones” over at TouchArcade. Those interested can pre-order the game on the iOS App Store [Direct Link] for $3.99, ahead of its launch on October 18. It’ll also be available on Android and Steam.

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How to set up the Nintendo Switch

Opening up your first Switch box can be equal parts exciting and confusing. This console may be small and designed for easy travel, but there are quite a few steps you’ll need to take to get everything up and running. The catch is, you can use the Nintendo Switch in one of two ways: mobile or in its docking station connected to a TV. Here’s how to set up the Nintendo Switch, whether you’re trying to squeeze in some game time on the commute to work or hosting a game night in your living room with some friends.

How to set up the Nintendo Switch for the first time

The first time you set up your Nintendo Switch, you’ll want to start without using the docking station. That’s because you’ll need to run through a few introductory prompts before you can actually use it. This is also great for people who prefer using their Switch as a mobile gaming device.

Start by picking up the AC adapter and plugging it into a nearby outlet. Connect the USB end to the port located on the bottom of the LCD screen. Turn on the console using the power button on top to confirm that it’s charging, then slide the right and left Joy-Cons into place on the sides of the screen. If you wish to use a Pro Controller, you have to wait until the initial set up is finished.

When attaching your Joy-Cons, there should be no resistance. If there is, it’s possible that your Switch is upside down or your Joy-Cons are backward. Never slam or force them into place because they may become stuck and could potentially cause irreversible damage to the console. If you’re having any problems, refer to the video by Nintendo below.

Once the Switch is on and the controllers are connected, you can start running through the prompts that appear on the screen. You’ll go through some questions that include selecting your language, region, and agreeing to an EULA. Select the internet network you want to connect to and allow the console to update. Picking your Time Zone will follow, along with a tutorial for connecting the console to a TV, but that can be skipped.

You will then be asked to create or connect your Nintendo profile, configure parental controls (also skippable), and then we’re happy to say that your Nintendo Switch setup will officially complete!

If you plan on using your console primarily as a mobile gaming device, this method of connecting directly to an AC Adapter is perfect for you. But, if you plan on doing some comfy home console gaming, then continue reading to learn how to set up the Nintendo Switch for the TV.

How to Set Up the Nintendo Switch for TV

Perfect for those days where you’re lounging around at home and itching to see one of your favorite Nintendo games on the big screen, the Switch’s home console capability is a godsend for those of us who like to enjoy the best of both worlds. Converting your Switch from mobile to home is simple and takes only a few additional steps.

You’ll want to begin by plugging the AC Adapter into an outlet near the TV. Set the docking station on a flat surface nearby and open the back compartment to connect the USB to a port labeled AC ADAPTER.

Next, take the HDMI cable and plug one end into an HDMI port on your TV. Plug the other end into the port labeled HDMI OUT in your docking station. Close the back compartment, making sure that the wires thread through the small opening, or else the back won’t close properly.

Before sliding your Nintendo Switch into the docking station, make sure the console is turned on. If it needs to be charged, simply leave it in the docking station for a bit before trying to power it on again.

Turn on your television and select the appropriate HDMI input. The screen of your Nintendo Switch should now be displayed on the TV. If it is, you’ve successfully set up your Nintendo Switch to the TV.

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Tennis on the International Space Station is as weird as it sounds

Well, it was hardly reminiscent of a brutal Federer/Nadal clash, and didn’t even come close to what you might witness down your local tennis club on a Sunday afternoon, but it was, at least, one of the weirdest tennis matches you’re ever likely to see.

Tennis in space. It’s never been tried before, and after watching how this week’s game went on the International Space Station (ISS), you’ll probably be thinking that maybe it should’ve stayed that way.

The event, organized by NASA and the U.S. Tennis Association, was designed to show how astronauts spend their leisure time and stay fit during their multi-month stays on the ISS, as well as to inspire young tennis players to take a greater interest in space exploration.

The unusual event was projected live onto a giant globe at Flushing Meadows, New York, where the annual U.S. Open tennis tourney takes place. A crowd of space and tennis fans, both young and old, turned up to enjoy the historic happening.

But before the first ball was hit, NASA astronaut and current ISS commander Drew Feustel talked about some of their preparations for the game. For example, they’d decided to use a soft, squishy tennis ball so that any erratic smashes by the players wouldn’t damage an important part of the space station’s machinery, rendering the entire satellite useless, or worse, sending it barreling off into oblivion. All because of a game of tennis.

As for the tennis racket, it looked about a quarter of the regular size. Either that or Feustel is a really massive guy with huge hands. We’re guessing it’s the former.

The ISS commander noted that the main difference when it comes to playing tennis in space is the lack of gravity. This meant the ball would maintain a straight trajectory after being struck, and therefore never dip as it would in a regular tennis match back on terra firma. Getting your feet in position before hitting the ball — an important part of Earth-based tennis — would also be pretty much impossible for the space athletes.

“Play!”

Using a net comprising a pole with some yellow stuff hanging off it, the world’s first tennis match in space was finally ready to begin. On the “court” with the commander were fellow crew members Serena Auñón-Chancellor, Ricky Arnold, and Alexander Gerst.

As you can see from the video above, the speed of play is rather on the slow side, making it look as if the picture is stuck in slo-mo. A dramatic soundtrack attempts to inject some much-needed tension into the sluggish rallies, while it soon becomes clear that this is more “badminton with a ball” than a proper game of tennis.

By far the most entertaining part is when one of the players is shown drifting nonchalantly upside down — a feat never even achieved by Boris Becker during his famously acrobatic on-court shenanigans way back when.

In his post-match analysis, Feustel commented that it’d been a “difficult” game and that “playing in microgravity is tough.”

As the livestream came to an end, the space commander closed with an upbeat message for any kids out there who were still wondering about what it was they’d just witnessed. “Stay fit and stay focused on your dreams and your goals, and shoot for the stars,” he said.

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Australia bans the use of Huawei 5G network technology

Huawei has been banned from supplying its 5G mobile network infrastructure equipment in Australia. The government issued order said regulations that previously only applied to carriers, would now apply to equipment, too. In a statement, representatives said using equipment sourced from companies that could be influenced by foreign governments may leave the “nation’s network vulnerable to unauthorized access or interference.”

An official told Reuters the new directive was aimed at Huawei, although the company was not mentioned by name in any of the official documentation. Huawei Australia responded to the news via its official Twitter account, saying it has been working on wireless technology on the continent for 15 years in a safe and secure manner, and called the decision an “extremely disappointing result for consumers.”

China’s foreign ministry spokesman is quoted as saying Australia should not use excuses to “artificially erect barriers,” and that the Chinese government has expressed “serious concern.” Australia has shut Huawei out of other communication deals already this year, previously ending projects related to fiber-optic connections and undersea cables.

Battle for 5G supremacy

Huawei calls itself a “world leader in 5G.” It announced an $800 million investment in 5G technology research and development in 2018, and has recruited more than 300 experts in the field over the past 10 years. It does have plenty of competition in the 5G world, with Ericsson, Nokia, ZTE, Qualcomm, Samsung, and Intel all vying to succeed in what’s considered the next major advancement in mobile technology. Research from network optimization company Viavi Solutions showed Ericsson is behind 30 percent of the world’s 5G trials, with Huawei in second position with 22 percent.

Vodafone Australia has commented on the ban, saying the decision, “creates uncertainty for carrier’s investment plans,” and is a “significant change which fundamentally undermines Australia’s 5G future.” The timing of the government’s announcement hasn’t helped either, as it comes before a crucial 5G spectrum auction that takes place in Australia during November. Vodafone will compete with local networks Optus and Telstra, which may have deals signed with Huawei’s competitors, based on a local news story.

Australia’s ban on Huawei’s 5G equipment comes after a similar ban in the United States, where Huawei has faced considerable resistance to its consumer products and its infrastructure hardware.

Editors’ Recommendations

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• Huawei MediaPad M5 Pro review

Best Asus Zenfone 5Z cases

Simon Hill/Digital Trends

It can be a challenge finding a decent case for a lesser known phone, but it’s not impossible. You do get a simple, flexible, transparent case in the box with your Asus Zenfone 5Z, which is pictured above. But if you’re after something a little more rugged, or you want a different style, then we’ve got you covered. Here are the best Asus Zenfone 5Z cases currently available.

Note: These cases will also fit the regular Zenfone 5.

RhinoShield SolidSuit Case ($35)

For some of the best drop protection around you need to look at RhinoShield’s SolidSuit case. The smooth, curved frame blends into a back section finished with a carbon fiber pattern, or in matte black or white. You can drop your Zenfone 5Z from up to 11 feet when it’s wearing this case and it won’t be damaged. The cutouts are accurate, a lip protects the screen, and there are button covers. The modular system allows you to change the button covers if you prefer a different color and there’s also an optional lens attachment with a choice of screw-on wide angle, fisheye, super wide, or macro lenses. This is the toughest and most versatile protection you’ll find for the 5Z.

Buy one now from:

RhinoShield  Amazon

Avidet TPU Case ($8)

Here’s a basic, flexible TPU case at a bargain price. Avidet has dressed it up a little with a brushed metal finish and a couple of mock carbon fiber panels top and bottom of the back. There are also gloss highlights around the recessed openings for the camera and fingerprint sensor on the back. Basic button covers, generous cutouts for the ports, and a raised lip around the screen complete this case and it’s available in four different colors. Don’t expect great quality at this price, but it should provide basic protection.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

Anccer Ultra-Thin Cover ($12)

If you prefer something slim and minimal, then this hard polycarbonate shell might suit you. It’s just 0.3mm thick and snaps onto your Zenfone 5Z to provide a protective layer that will ward off scratches and minor bumps, but little else. There are openings, not just for the camera, fingerprint sensor, and ports, but also for the buttons. This cover comes in a choice of six different colors.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

Starhemei Dual Layer Case ($8)

A lot of lesser-known case brands source their wares from the same factories, so you’ll find this exact same design under a few different names, but we think this is the cheapest incarnation. It comprises a flexible inner layer available in different colors and a hard polycarbonate shell that includes a pop-out kickstand for propping your Zenfone 5Z in landscape view to watch a movie. It’s textured for added grip and quite thick, so should survive a fall or two, but the quality and style are not likely to impress.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

CoverON FlexGuard Case ($8)

This slim case has extra padding where it’s needed the most – on the corners, which inevitably bear the brunt of any impact after a tumble. It’s a simple, slim TPU shell that comes in clear or black varieties and has the usual array of precision cutouts and button covers to offer uninterrupted access to all your Zenfone 5Z’s functions. It has a glossy finish and the clear version sports tiny dots that help to disguise finger smudges. It extends a tiny bit at the front to help protect the screen and the sides are textured for enhanced grip.

Buy one now from:

Amazon  Walmart

That’s all the options we have for now, but there are also some official Asus Zenfone 5Z cases out there, like this Folio Cover, which may be worth looking out for. We’ll add them, along with any other tempting new cases, when we can find online links to purchase them.

Editors’ Recommendations

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Google and Labster bring more than 30 virtual reality science labs to Daydream

Google’s Daydream may be a great platform for entertainment, but there are also plenty of educational purposes for the virtual reality platform. To that end, Google announced a new partnership with science education company Labster to create as many as 30 virtual labs on Daydream.

The virtual labs could become a handle tool for students aiming to pursue STEM fields. In those fields, according to Google, lab time can be as important, if not more important, than spending time in a library or in class. So much so that lab time is often a requirement for many STEM degrees. The problem with that is that it can often be hard to get access to a lab, whether it be for financial reasons, distance, or any other reason.

That is where the new partnership between Google and Labster comes in. According to Labster, students from Arizona State, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Texas, McMaster University, and more, have been using the virtual labs to do things like examine organisms under a microscope, sequence DNA, and more. Using VR, students can even see things on a deeper level. For example, Google describes being able to manipulate DNA at the molecular level, or visiting other planets and determining whether or not they could be a potential habitat for humans. Without a time limit, students can do things like review theories and techniques without the pressure of being on the clock.

Of course, it’s likely not everything about the new partnership will be perfect. We’ll have to wait and see exactly how useful the virtual labs really are. It’s likely that the virtual labs won’t be quite as versatile as a real lab, in that they’re limited by what Labster has built into them — but that doesn’t mean they won’t be extremely helpful for learning about certain aspects of science.

Still, it’s likely that the labs will only get better over time, and the fact that there is 30 of them available isn’t insignificant. It’s very likely that the number of labs will continue to grow, meaning that the helpfulness of these virtual labs will only expand further.

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Despite slowing tablet sales, Lenovo launches 5 budget-minded tablets

While Android tablets in general seem to be dying, a few companies still see value in launching new ones. Recently, Samsung took the wraps off of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4. Now, it’s Lenovo’s turn — with the new Lenovo Tab E7, Lenovo Tab E8, Lenovo Tab E10, Lenovo Tab M10, and Lenovo Tab P10.

The new series of tablets are really aimed at offering value for money — though we don’t yet know the pricing for the Lenovo Tab M10 and Lenovo Tab P10.

Here’s a rundown of the specs to expect in the new family of Lenovo tablets.

Lenovo E-series tablets

• 1.
  Lenovo Tab E7
• 2.
  Lenovo Tab E8
• 3.
  Lenovo Tab E10

As mentioned, there are three models in the Lenovo E series of tablets, and as you might expect they each have a different sized screen — though that is not the only difference between the devices.

For starters, the Tab E7 comes with a MediaTek MT8167 processor, coupled with 1GB of RAM and 16GB of storage — though thankfully there is a MicroSD card slot to expand on that storage. The battery on the device comes in at 2,750mAh, while the 7-inch display has a resolution of 1,024 x 600. The cameras on the device are 2 megapixels for the rear-facing camera, and 0.2 megapixels for the front-facing camera. Thankfully, those underwhelming specs translate into a low price — the tablet will be available for $70 starting in October, from Walmart. It only comes in black.

Next up is the Tab E8, which keeps the 1GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, and MicroSD card slot, but swaps out the processor for a slightly different MediaTek MT8163B. The resolution on the display is a little higher, too — coming in at 1,280 x 800 — and the battery sits in at 4,850mAh. The rear-facing camera on the device sits in at 5 megapixels, while the front-facing camera is 2 megapixels. The tablet isn’t quite as cheap as the Tab E7, but it’s still inexpensive — coming in at $100. You don’t have to wait to buy it either — it’s now available in-store at Walmart. The tablet comes in black.

Last but not least is the Lenovo Tab E10, which has a 10.1-inch display with a resolution of 1,280 x 800. Like the Tab E8, the camera comes in at 5 megapixels and 2 megapixels for the rear and front-facing cameras, respectively, but unlike the E7, the E8 boasts 2GB of RAM. it does have the same 16GB of storage, though there is still a MicroSD card slot. The processor is perhaps the biggest upgrade — it’s a Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 chip, which is still very much entry-level but should be slightly better than the chips in the E7 and E8. The Tab E10 will come at $130 and will be available from Walmart and other “select retailers” starting in October. The tablet comes in black.

Lenovo Tab M10

The Lenovo E-series is clearly an entry-level series, but the M-series steps things up a little. The Lenovo Tab M10 comes in with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 processor, coupled with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, along with a MicroSD card slot for expanded storage. The 10.1-inch display comes in with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200, making it much better for watching movies and TV shows.

Unfortunately, it looks like Lenovo has carried over the cameras from the E10 for this device — the Tab M10 comes with a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. Sure, not too many people use the cameras on their tablets except for video chatting, but it would still be nice to see slightly better cameras. The battery on the tablet sits in at 4,850mAh.

Pricing and availability for the Lenovo Tab M10 isn’t known just yet, beyond the fact that they’ll be available for pre-order “this winter.” Unlike the cheaper tablets, there are two color options here — the Lenovo Tab M10 comes in black and white.

Lenovo Tab P10

The Lenovo Tab P10 is the most high-powered of Lenovo’s new tablets — though it’s still not really a flagship device. The display on the device comes in at 10.1 inches, with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200. Under the hood, the device features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, though once again you will also get a MicroSD card slot in case you want it.

The cameras on the Tab P10 have been upgraded a little from the other tablets — and you’ll get an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera. The battery on the device sits in at 7,000mAh, which is by far the biggest battery of the bunch.

Like the Lenovo Tab M10, the Lenovo Tab P10 will be available for pre-order starting in the winter, and we don’t yet have pricing for the device. It will be available in both black and white.

Editors’ Recommendations

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Despite slowing tablet sales, Lenovo launches 5 budget-minded tablets

While Android tablets in general seem to be dying, a few companies still see value in launching new ones. Recently, Samsung took the wraps off of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4. Now, it’s Lenovo’s turn — with the new Lenovo Tab E7, Lenovo Tab E8, Lenovo Tab E10, Lenovo Tab M10, and Lenovo Tab P10.

The new series of tablets are really aimed at offering value for money — though we don’t yet know the pricing for the Lenovo Tab M10 and Lenovo Tab P10.

Here’s a rundown of the specs to expect in the new family of Lenovo tablets.

Lenovo E-series tablets

• 1.
  Lenovo Tab E7
• 2.
  Lenovo Tab E8
• 3.
  Lenovo Tab E10

As mentioned, there are three models in the Lenovo E series of tablets, and as you might expect they each have a different sized screen — though that is not the only difference between the devices.

For starters, the Tab E7 comes with a MediaTek MT8167 processor, coupled with 1GB of RAM and 16GB of storage — though thankfully there is a MicroSD card slot to expand on that storage. The battery on the device comes in at 2,750mAh, while the 7-inch display has a resolution of 1,024 x 600. The cameras on the device are 2 megapixels for the rear-facing camera, and 0.2 megapixels for the front-facing camera. Thankfully, those underwhelming specs translate into a low price — the tablet will be available for $70 starting in October, from Walmart. It only comes in black.

Next up is the Tab E8, which keeps the 1GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, and MicroSD card slot, but swaps out the processor for a slightly different MediaTek MT8163B. The resolution on the display is a little higher, too — coming in at 1,280 x 800 — and the battery sits in at 4,850mAh. The rear-facing camera on the device sits in at 5 megapixels, while the front-facing camera is 2 megapixels. The tablet isn’t quite as cheap as the Tab E7, but it’s still inexpensive — coming in at $100. You don’t have to wait to buy it either — it’s now available in-store at Walmart. The tablet comes in black.

Last but not least is the Lenovo Tab E10, which has a 10.1-inch display with a resolution of 1,280 x 800. Like the Tab E8, the camera comes in at 5 megapixels and 2 megapixels for the rear and front-facing cameras, respectively, but unlike the E7, the E8 boasts 2GB of RAM. it does have the same 16GB of storage, though there is still a MicroSD card slot. The processor is perhaps the biggest upgrade — it’s a Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 chip, which is still very much entry-level but should be slightly better than the chips in the E7 and E8. The Tab E10 will come at $130 and will be available from Walmart and other “select retailers” starting in October. The tablet comes in black.

Lenovo Tab M10

The Lenovo E-series is clearly an entry-level series, but the M-series steps things up a little. The Lenovo Tab M10 comes in with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 processor, coupled with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, along with a MicroSD card slot for expanded storage. The 10.1-inch display comes in with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200, making it much better for watching movies and TV shows.

Unfortunately, it looks like Lenovo has carried over the cameras from the E10 for this device — the Tab M10 comes with a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. Sure, not too many people use the cameras on their tablets except for video chatting, but it would still be nice to see slightly better cameras. The battery on the tablet sits in at 4,850mAh.

Pricing and availability for the Lenovo Tab M10 isn’t known just yet, beyond the fact that they’ll be available for pre-order “this winter.” Unlike the cheaper tablets, there are two color options here — the Lenovo Tab M10 comes in black and white.

Lenovo Tab P10

The Lenovo Tab P10 is the most high-powered of Lenovo’s new tablets — though it’s still not really a flagship device. The display on the device comes in at 10.1 inches, with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200. Under the hood, the device features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, though once again you will also get a MicroSD card slot in case you want it.

The cameras on the Tab P10 have been upgraded a little from the other tablets — and you’ll get an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera. The battery on the device sits in at 7,000mAh, which is by far the biggest battery of the bunch.

Like the Lenovo Tab M10, the Lenovo Tab P10 will be available for pre-order starting in the winter, and we don’t yet have pricing for the device. It will be available in both black and white.

Editors’ Recommendations

• The best tablets of 2018
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 vs. iPad Pro: Which high-end tablet takes the crown?
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 vs. Galaxy Tab S3: Android Tablet Showdown
• The Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 is a tablet and computer rolled into one
• You can use Chrome OS on a tablet, but it’s not an iPad competitor yet

TSMC Expected to Remain Exclusive Supplier of ‘A13’ Chip Orders for 2019 iPhones

Taiwanese manufacturer TSMC will likely remain Apple’s contract chipmaker next year, as the exclusive supplier of “A13” chips for 2019 iPhones, according to industry analysts cited in a report by the EE Times.

“As long as TSMC continues to offer something new at leading-edge every year and continues to execute well on yield, I could see Apple remaining sole source on foundry at TSMC for years to come,” Arete Research analyst Brett Simpson said in an interview with EE Times.

TSMC has been Apple’s exclusive supplier of A-series chips since 2016, fulfilling all orders for the A10 Fusion chip in the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, and the A11 Bionic chip in the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. Multiple reports indicate TSMC will also be the exclusive supplier of the “A12” chip in 2018 iPhones.

TSMC’s packaging offerings are widely considered to be superior to that of other chipmakers, including Samsung and Intel, so it won’t be surprising if that exclusivity continues with the “A13” chip in 2019.

TSMC has been gradually shrinking the size of its dies over the years as it continues to refine its manufacturing process: A10 Fusion is 16nm, A11 Bionic is 10nm, and this year’s “A12” is expected to be a 7nm chip. The “A13” will likely be a 7nm+ chip with extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV), with volume production expected to begin in the second quarter of 2019, in time for a fall iPhone launch next year.

Beyond that, TSMC recently confirmed that it plans to invest $25 billion towards volume production of 5nm chips by 2020, so there’s a good chance that Apple will rely on the Taiwanese chipmaker for the foreseeable future.

TSMC’s favor with Apple comes at the expense of Samsung, which was the exclusive manufacturer of iPhone processors for many years, starting with the ARM11 chip in the original iPhone through to the A7 chip in the iPhone 5s. TSMC manufactured the A8 chip in 2014, and TSMC and Samsung shared A9 chip orders in 2015.

Samsung isn’t backing down easily, however, as DigiTimes last month reported that the South Korean company is developing its own InFO packaging technology. Samsung claims to have outpaced TSMC in kicking off official production of 7nm+ with EUV, seeking to win back orders from Apple in 2019.

As far as how this all impacts customers, Apple’s industry-leading mobile chip designs and TSMC’s continued packaging advancements are beneficial for the performance, battery life, and thermal management of future iPhones.

Tag: TSMC
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Apple Supports National Parks With Apple Watch Activity Challenge and Apple Pay Donations

Apple today introduced an Apple Pay donation program and a new Activity Challenge on the Apple Watch in support of U.S. national parks.

From August 24 through August 31, Apple said it will donate $1 to the National Park Foundation, the official charity of the U.S. National Park Service, for every purchase made with Apple Pay at any Apple Store, on Apple.com, or through the Apple Store app for iPhone and iPad in the United States.

Proceeds will support the National Park Foundation’s mission to protect national parks through projects like habitat restoration and historic preservation, and support programs like Open OutDoors for Kids, according to Apple.

Apple CEO Tim Cook:

America’s national parks are treasures everyone should experience, and we’re proud to support them again this month by donating a dollar for every purchase made with Apple Pay at one of our stores. These awe-inspiring places are our national inheritance, and Apple is doing our part to pass them on to future generations — just as extraordinary, beautiful and wild as we found them.

On September 1, Apple Watch users around the world who complete a walk, run, or wheelchair workout of 50 minutes of more will earn an Activity app award and animated iMessage stickers, inspired by national parks. The challenge pays homage to Redwood National Park’s 50th anniversary celebration this year.

The App Store will also highlight a collection of some of the best apps to help users easily navigate and explore U.S. national parks.

Apple supported U.S. national parks in these same ways in July 2017.

Related Roundups: Apple Watch, watchOS 4, watchOS 5, Apple PayTag: Activity ChallengeBuyer’s Guide: Apple Watch (Caution)
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