Apple Teases Upcoming (And Expensive) iCar

Oct 3 2023

Apple has danced around iCar speculations for a decade, but the surge in Tesla’s popularity has reportedly urged the tech giant to push further for its development.

Even Elon Musk confirmed in 2016 that Apple’s vehicular endeavours were an industry-wide open secret, remarking to the BBC, “It’s pretty hard to hide if you hire a thousand engineers to do it.”

In that same year, Apple seemingly acknowledged this when they informed US transport regulators of their enthusiasm for automated systems, particularly in transportation.

The vehicle, informally dubbed the “iCar,” is internally referred to by Apple engineers as “Project Titan.” It is expected to operate on Apple’s proprietary iOS, a logical step given the prevalence of Apple CarPlay.

This integration will forge a close bond with the iPhone, likely featuring an integrated display for music, navigation, and potentially vehicle access. Positioned as a rival to Tesla, the iCar is projected to be electric, implying a focus on comfort and utility over high-speed performance.

Initial reports envisioned a fully autonomous iCar, sans steering wheel or pedals, allowing passengers to relax, watch TV, or play games while the vehicle handled the driving. Recent industry insights, however, indicate that this level of technology is not currently viable.

According to various sources, Apple is leaning towards a less ambitious model, possibly featuring both steering controls and pedals, and functioning in a semi-autonomous capacity. It may offer autonomous capabilities on highways, but prompt drivers to assume manual control on city streets or in adverse weather conditions.

The eagerly anticipated iCar has seen its projected release date delayed multiple times. The latest reports suggest Apple is aiming for a launch window between 2025 and 2027.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, known for accurate Apple product predictions, recently asserted that for a 2025 release, Apple may need significant acquisitions from existing EV and autonomous vehicle manufacturers, tweeting, “If Apple doesn’t pursue an acquisition strategy for entering the automotive market, I doubt the Apple Car can achieve mass production in the next few years.”

#MaltaDaily

Steve Zammit Lupi Kicks Off First Bicycle Bus To University

Oct 3 2023

Posting to social media, activist Steve Zammit Lupi shared how the first attempt at a bicycle bus as an alternative to other mainstream modes of transportation was a big success.

‘From Siġġiewi to the University of Malta in 40 minutes at a light pace,’ explained Zammit Lupi. ‘The main response upon arrival was how quick and comfortable the trip was.’

Writing in the comments, Steve revealed that the next one will take place next Monday and will go to Junior College and University.

The response to the concept seems to have been quite high, as many reached out to inquire for more information.

The activist had recommended the concept at the end of September as schools were preparing to reopen and worry about morning traffic skyrocketed.

#MaltaDaily

Locally Beloved DJ Ray Vincent Suda Passes Away

Oct 3 2023

DJ Ray Vincent Soda, a locally beloved artist, has unfortunately passed way following a battle with an aggressive cancer that spread to many parts of his body.

The DJ had shared updates about his fight against the disease on social media, explaining how he was going through a lot of pain and thanking everyone for their support throughout the years.

Many had taken to the comments sections of his videos to express their love and recount memories shared with the DJ.

Rest in peace Ray. On behalf of his loved ones, we would like to wish the sincerest of condolences.

#MaltaDaily

The Travellers & Ira Losco Release New Collaboration

Oct 3 2023

Local band ‘The Travellers’ have unveiled their newest single, and it’s a collaboration with the one and only Maltese queen of pop Ira Losco.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Travellers (@thetravellersmalta)

‘L-Imħabba Kelma Kbira Wisq’ is a love ballad about how difficult it is to define love and yet, somehow, it always finds its way into our lives unexpectedly.

‘Long time friends, long time coming! The Travellers’ first ever collaboration on a brand new single with Ira Losco. The artists join forces to deliver a message of love! Knowing each other for over 8 years, a collaboration between the artists was bound to happen, and finally, here it is.’

The video, directed by Steven Levi Vella, is a black-and-white depiction of all forms love manifests itself in our lives.

#MaltaDaily