iOS 16

Apple's iOS 16 mobile operating system is back in the spotlight, with users discussing the update and its features. The search interest appears concentrated in Russian-speaking regions, though the exact trigger for the renewed buzz is not specified. iPhone owners continue to weigh the update's changes, compatibility and performance on their devices.

A developer has released a project on GitHub called hackios-xnu-kernel, claiming it can run full iOS 16.5 firmware on Android devices. The announcement surfaced on Hacker News, where it drew modest engagement. If accurate, the work would involve porting Apple's XNU kernel-based firmware to non-Apple hardware, a technically ambitious claim that commenters are likely scrutinising for evidence it actually works.

Developers have managed to boot Apple's iOS 16 on a Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G, an Android phone, according to Gizchina. The port lets tinkerers experiment with the installation, though it is a hack rather than an official release and likely lacks full functionality. The project is drawing attention for its novelty, as running Apple's mobile operating system on non-Apple hardware is rare and technically challenging.

Meta has released Waddle World, an AI-powered virtual pet application available on iOS and Android in the Philippines. The app presents a 16-bit style pet that users can care for and entertain through mini-games. The launch was spotted and shared by social media consultant Matt Navarra, drawing attention to Meta's continued experimentation with consumer-facing AI products outside its core platforms.

A developer has reportedly got iOS 16.7.16 running natively on a Redmi Note 12 4G, without an emulator. Apple's XNU kernel boots on the Qualcomm-powered Android phone, with Wi-Fi said to be working, though the system clock resets to December 31 on every restart. The feat is drawing attention as a rare example of Apple's mobile OS running on non-Apple hardware.

Apple has released iOS 18.0.1, a software update that resolves a touch screen issue reported on the new iPhone 16. The bug affected responsiveness on some devices shortly after launch. The quick fix is being noted as Apple moving fast to address early complaints about its latest flagship phones.