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Public Beta 3 of macOS Tahoe 26.2 is Now Released

### Apple Introduces macOS Tahoe 26.2 Public Beta 3: What to Anticipate

In light of the recent arrival of the third round of developer betas, Apple has officially released macOS Tahoe 26.2 public beta 3. This update offers some intriguing advancements for users keen to dive into the newest features and enhancements.

#### Apple’s Public Betas Have Followed a Peculiar Timeline

The last few weeks have experienced a change in the timing of Apple’s public beta launches. Specifically, macOS Tahoe 26.2 public beta 2 made its debut at an odd hour—4:00 p.m. ET—signifying a break from the usual release rhythms. Additionally, during this timeframe, only macOS and tvOS saw public beta builds being issued, even though iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS also had developer builds made available shortly beforehand.

With the introduction of macOS Tahoe 26.2 public beta 3, Apple has synchronized this release with its other operating systems. The build number for this iteration is 25C5048a, which corresponds with the developer beta that was rolled out the previous day.

A notable new feature in macOS Tahoe 26.2 is the addition of the **Edge Light effect**, which improves video calls by providing a virtual ring light effect around the screen’s edges. However, aside from this enhancement, there have been few updates, both visible and in the background. Users can look forward to exploring the beta further to find any additional significant modifications.

#### How to Get Started with macOS Tahoe 26.2 Public Beta 3

For those keen on trying the new public beta, the installation steps are simple. Here’s how to begin:

1. Sign up for Apple’s public beta program at

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Apple Introduces iOS 26.2 Public Beta 2: Fresh Features and Enhancements

# iOS 26.2 Public Beta 2: New Features and Improvements

Apple has recently unveiled the iOS 26.2 public beta 2, which gives users a preview of the forthcoming features and upgrades. This update presents a range of enhancements designed to elevate the user experience across devices. Below is a comprehensive overview of what’s new in this beta version.

## AirDrop Codes

Among the most eagerly awaited features is the revamped AirDrop functionality, enabling users to exchange files between devices without the need to store contacts for 30 days. This capability is currently accessible in the AirDrop section of Settings in iOS 26.2.

[Read more about the upcoming AirDrop codes feature here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2s-new-airdrop-feature-upgrade-revealed-in-beta-3/)

## Liquid Glass Level

The Measure app has undergone a redesign influenced by Liquid Glass. This update enhances the design to ensure the numbers shown are clear in various scenarios, improving overall usability.

[Read more about the new design here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2-adds-a-cool-liquid-glass-effect-to-the-native-level-tool/)

## iPadOS Split View and Slide Over

iPadOS 26.2 enhances multitasking features by enabling users to drag an app icon out of the Dock to access Slide Over or Split View. This improvement builds on the reintroduction of Slide Over from iPadOS 26.1.

[Read more about the multitasking changes here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/slide-over-ipados-26-2-update-feature/)

## Default Voice Assistant Code

Leaked code suggests that Apple is developing a feature that will permit users in Japan to substitute Siri as the default voice assistant when pressing the side button. This modification is being implemented to meet regulatory standards.

[Read more about the leaked code references here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2-leak-shows-iphone-might-let-you-replace-siri-as-default-assistant/)

## Games App Navigation

The Games app has been enhanced with additional sorting and filtering options for the library, improved controller navigation, and live score updates during play.

[Read more about the improvements here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2s-apple-games-app-has-three-new-improvements/)

## Measure Redesign

The level feature of the Measure app now incorporates the Liquid Glass design, enhancing its visual attractiveness and utility.

[Read more about the Liquid Glass design here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2-adds-a-cool-liquid-glass-effect-to-the-native-level-tool/)

## Messages CarPlay Update

Users now have the option to disable pinned chats for Messages in CarPlay settings, allowing for greater customization while utilizing CarPlay.

[Read more about this feature here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2-lets-you-disable-new-carplay-feature-in-messages/)

## Additional Enhancements

– Animations when tapping buttons to access menus are considerably smoother now.

## Edge Light Feature on macOS 26 Tahoe

A new feature named Edge Light is being rolled out for Mac users, creating a virtual ring light effect utilizing the screen to enhance lighting during video calls.

[Read more about Edge Light on the Mac here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/macos-26-2-adds-new-edge-light-feature/)

## Sleep Score Changes

Apple is adjusting how the Sleep Score functions in sleep monitoring. The top category is now labeled “Very High,” and the thresholds for each category have been modified according to user feedback.

[Read more about the change here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/watchos-26-2-sleep-score-changes-apple-watch/)

## Apple Podcasts App Enhancements

The Apple Podcasts app is utilizing AI to enhance user experience by automatically generating chapters, connecting to referenced podcasts, and gathering show links.

[Read more about the updates here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/ios-26-2-includes-three-helpful-upgrades-to-apple-podcasts-app/)

## Apple News Design

The News app has been enhanced with quick links to trending sections, improving navigation and user interaction.

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iPadOS 26.2 Public Beta 2 Launched: Latest Features and Enhancements

**iPadOS 26.2 Public Beta 2: Major Updates and Features**

Apple has unveiled the second public beta of iPadOS 26.2, coming after developer beta 3. This release brings forth a variety of improvements, especially in multitasking functionalities and visual design.

### Improvements in Multitasking: Slide Over and Split View

A key enhancement in iPadOS 26.2 public beta 2 is the reinstatement of drag and drop support for starting Split View and Slide Over. This capability had been withdrawn in iPadOS 26 due to modifications in the windowing framework, but its revival has been embraced by users depending on multitasking. This feature enables users to efficiently handle several applications at once, boosting productivity on the iPad.

### Liquid Glass Enhancements

The update further refines the Liquid Glass feature, which was initially introduced in prior betas. The animations for the Lock Screen clock slider have been enhanced for greater fluidity and visual appeal. Moreover, the Lock Screen buttons in the Notification Center now feature Liquid Glass effects, which are more consistent with the design presented during Apple’s WWDC.

### New Features for Mac

Interestingly, despite the emphasis on iPadOS, a new capability dubbed ‘Edge Light’ has been launched for macOS, aimed at improving video call quality. This aspect may find its way to the iPad in future iterations, reflecting Apple’s ongoing dedication to enhancing user experience across its range of devices.

### How to Access the Public Beta

For those eager to experience the latest features, iPadOS 26.2 beta 2 can be accessed via the Settings app under General > Software Update for users already part of Apple’s public beta program. New users may register at beta.apple.com.

### Conclusion

The iPadOS 26.2 public beta 2 delivers significant advancements, particularly in multitasking and visual elements, enriching the overall user experience. As Apple progresses in refining its software, users can anticipate additional updates and features soon.

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Apple Unveils Public Beta 2 for watchOS 26.2 and Other Enhancements

### Public Beta 2 Now Released for watchOS 26.2 and More

Yesterday, Apple introduced developer beta 3 for its various 26.2 software upgrades, and now public beta 2 has been launched for watchOS 26.2. This update reflects Apple’s continuous effort to enhance user experience across its platforms.

If you are a participant in Apple’s public beta program, you can now download a variety of fresh software updates. Public beta 2 for watchOS 26.2 corresponds to the developer beta 3 issued the day before. Importantly, last week featured public betas solely for macOS and tvOS, which have also progressed to public beta 3 now.

Currently, after a day of evaluation, no major new features have been discovered in the recent updates. Nevertheless, users can anticipate bug fixes that may improve device performance.

Among the significant modifications in this batch of betas is the reinstatement of drag and drop functionality for initiating multitasking in iPadOS. Furthermore, a new user interface for Apple’s AirDrop upgrade has been introduced.

Apple persists in fine-tuning its software offerings, and any additional findings from the watchOS 26.2 public beta and other platforms will be updated as they emerge.

For users who have started utilizing the 26.2 public betas across Apple’s platforms, insights on performance and usability are appreciated in the comments section.

### Best Apple Watch Accessories

For individuals seeking to elevate their Apple Watch experience, examining the finest accessories available can offer enhanced functionality and style.

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Top 5 Electric Cars for Winter and Snow, Advised by Specialists

choosing the appropriate EV for usage in winter conditions involving snow necessitates careful consideration of certain technical and performance aspects. Cold temperatures affect driving behavior due to slippery surfaces, snow, and ice, but battery performance is just as crucial. Lithium-ion batteries show decreased chemical reactions in low temperatures, which leads to diminished energy availability and slower charging speeds. Moreover, heating the cabin in EVs directly utilizes battery power, further diminishing the effective driving range.

In addition to reduced range, winter driving requires excellent traction, either all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive capability, a well-designed stability control system, and tires suitable for snowy and icy conditions. When assessing EVs for use in winter, important factors should consist of: the extent of range reduction in cold weather (the durability of the battery and thermal systems), whether the vehicle incorporates a heat pump or other effective cabin and battery heating methods, the strength of the driveline and AWD systems in low-grip scenarios, as well as cold weather charging efficiency.

Research indicates that in freezing conditions, many EVs generally operate at 75% to 85% of their optimal temperature range. Vehicles featuring a heat pump generally experience less range loss. In snowy areas, vehicles with a lower center of gravity (due to ground-mounted battery packs), improved chassis stability, and specialized winter/traction models perform better. Let’s examine five EVs that excel in winter and snowy conditions, combining range durability and effective traction.

Audi e-tron (premium plus)

Guide to Keeping Your Steam Deck Touch Screen Clean

Steam Deck modifications and enhancements can further boost its capabilities. However, like any electronic gadget, it is crucial to maintain and clean your Steam Deck periodically to prevent the accumulation of oil and grime. This is particularly important for the Steam Deck’s touchscreen, which you’ll likely be engaging with frequently as you browse your library and games. Keeping the screen clean is essential to prevent scratches and ensure smoother interactions. Although it may be tempting to grab Windex or your usual lens cleaner for the touchscreen, this has been widely discouraged on various forums and websites.

Instead, Valve advises a straightforward approach to maintain the cleanliness of the Steam Deck’s touchscreen display. According to the official Steam Support Care and maintenance guidelines for the Steam Deck, Valve suggests that Steam Deck users utilize a dry microfiber cloth for display cleaning. Furthermore, if liquid is necessary, Valve recommends applying a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on the cloth before gently rubbing the screen. Directly applying alcohol to the screen can lead to damage, which Valve states will not be covered under the handheld’s warranty.

Reasons to avoid using cleaning products on your Steam Deck

How to Improve Your Exercise Routine Utilizing Your Treadmill’s USB Port: 4 Impactful Techniques

how you can leverage your TV’s USB ports to energize streaming devices — as well as the kinds of gadgets you can connect to your phone’s USB ports — but what can you really accomplish with the USB ports on a treadmill? Aside from charging a mobile phone or power bank, there are additional ways to transform the USBs on our fitness equipment into genuine workout allies and entertainment hubs

Whether you’re a frequent treadmill user or simply seeking the right inspiration to resume exercising, we’ve devised four methods to utilize your treadmill’s USB port to enhance your workout experience. From powering handy workout gadgets to downloading essential software updates for your equipment, these suggestions are intended to make each workout more fulfilling.

Stay refreshed with a USB-operated fan

Perspiration is a normal aspect of the exercise routine, but that doesn’t imply you have to enjoy it. If you think you could benefit from a gentle breeze to help cool off while using the treadmill, consider getting a compact USB-operated fan. There are various models designed to attach and clamp onto the arms and other parts of your treadmill, and one of our top picks is the Gaiatop Mini Portable Stroller Fan. Offered in six different colors, the fan features a 2,000-milliamp rechargeable battery built in. When fully charged, you will receive

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Cloudflare Service Interruption Impacts Online Platforms: ChatGPT, X, Spotify, and Many Prominent Websites Affected

You’re not alone — Cloudflare disrupts numerous major sites, here’s the explanation

(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia)

If you’ve not been miraculously exempt from the Internal Server Error 500, you are likely aware that many websites online aren’t functioning properly today. The cause behind this is a significant outage at Cloudflare, a major internet infrastructure provider that supports a multitude of large websites and platforms.

As one of the most dependable infrastructure providers, Cloudflare’s Content Delivery Network has consistently facilitated the replication of websites across various servers globally, ensuring swift loading times for users everywhere.

Nevertheless, its pivotal role in powering numerous popular apps, websites, and services also positions it as a crucial bottleneck when issues arise, like this morning. This is what occurred, the impacted websites, and Cloudflare’s somewhat inconsistent history regarding these particular attacks.

Guide for Configuring Safety and Emergency Functions on the Pixel Watch 4

It takes just a few moments to make sure that your loved ones are informed in the event of an emergency, and that responders have the ability to access your medical and insurance details.

The Google Pixel Watch 4 and earlier models encourage you to establish critical safety and emergency functions. Since you likely bypassed this step to dive into using your new smartwatch, assistance is needed now to activate these features, ensuring your Watch 4 can request help during an emergency, even when there’s no cellular signal.

You are able to update your emergency and medical information in two locations. On your Pixel Watch 4, swipe down from the primary watch face, tap the Settings gear icon, and scroll down to the Safety & Emergency section. Alternatively, in the Pixel Watch mobile application, if your smartwatch is connected via Bluetooth, you can locate the same Safety & Emergency section under Settings on the main app screen.

Certain functions of the Pixel Watch 4 are automated; others necessitate prior manual configuration, such as Safety Check. This guide walks you through the surprisingly extensive array of safety features on the Watch 4 that can provide you and your family reassurance — or possibly save your life.

Configure and personalize Emergency SOS on the Pixel Watch 4

1. On your Watch 4 (or previous Pixel Watch model), access Settings, scroll to Safety & Emergency, and select Emergency SOS. If it’s not enabled already, switch the feature on.
2. Tap on Ways to initiate SOS. By default, you have to press the crown five times, then press and hold the screen for three seconds. Alternatively, you can set the Watch 4 to Automatically call; after the five button presses, it’ll contact 911 after a five-second pause.
– If you opt for the latter, decide whether to toggle Play a sound on or off; it’s a loud alert to notify you that it’s about to make a call, with a cancellation option displayed.
3. Finally, select Who to call for assistance. By default, Emergency SOS connects you to Emergency services, but you can opt for a personal contact instead by tapping Manage contacts and selecting an option from your saved contacts.

Switching to a personal contact makes Emergency SOS feel less “official.” You can quickly reach out to family members for help, without incurring ambulance fees or involving law enforcement, but there’s no assurance they will answer promptly as 911 would.

I suggest keeping 911 as the default choice. You can depend on the Personal Safety app to inform family members.

Select what information is shared during an emergency

1. Press the crown and open the Personal Safety app.
2. Scroll down to Emergency info access.
3. Tap Share during emergency call to permit “Emergency Location Service” to share your GPS location and Medical Info with emergency responders.
4. Back in the main app view, tap Emergency contacts to manage your contacts; tap Add contact to include more or use the trash icon to delete contacts.
5. In the primary app view, select Medical Info and then Edit on phone.
6. On your paired device, you can input your date of birth, blood type, height, weight, allergies, pregnancy status, medications, address, organ donor status, and any other medical details. This information will be shared if you enabled “Share during emergency call” above.

Using the Personal Safety app for Safety Checks or Emergency Sharing

If you frequent the gym at night, return late from campus, or face any situation where you have concerns for your safety, the Pixel Watch’s Personal Safety app is a proactive solution to manage those worries.

1. Launch the Personal Safety app from the app drawer, then select Emergency Sharing.
2. Under “Share with,” toggle specific emergency contacts on or off, then tap Share real-time location.

Your contacts will receive an SMS reading, “You’re receiving this message because you’re an emergency contact for [Your name]. [Name] is sharing their real-time location with you: URL. Please call or text

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Best Buy Provides More than $140 Discounts on Meta Quest 3S Acquisition

The Black Friday offers are truly starting to ramp up at Best Buy.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

To be truthful, when I reported on the Black Friday Meta Quest offers yesterday, I had no clue that Best Buy was about to overshadow every other retailer with an amazing deal of its own. Live and learn, right?

As of this morning, if you purchase the Meta Quest 3S 128GB during the festive sale Best Buy will provide you with a $50 discount off the price

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