climate change, extensive reforms have significantly mitigated the threats posed by acid rain, particularly in Europe and North America. This outcome resulted from newly implemented policies that curtailed emissions, along with the identification of microbes capable of naturally decreasing the acidity levels in lakes.
Last week marked the certification of the inaugural next-gen wireless chargers, and the new standard has now been officially introduced as Qi2 25W. The updated name will help confirm that we are purchasing the more powerful versions.
The iPhone was the first device to adopt the standard, with Android smartphones now following suit, but anyone considering the purchase of an iPhone 17 might want to wait for the time being.
## A brief recap on Qi chargers
Initial wireless phone chargers were built on the original Qi standard, which was managed by the industry trade organization Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). This was a significant advancement, allowing consumers to buy any Qi-certified charger and be assured that it would be compatible with nearly every phone on the market – including iPhones. However, it was limited to a maximum output of 7.5W, making it not particularly fast.
The Qi2 standard represented a substantial enhancement, particularly since Apple played a role in its development by open-sourcing its MagSafe magnetic attachment system. Qi2 chargers also increased power output to 15W.
Qi 2 25W is the most recent update to the standard, further increasing power to 25W.
## Qi2 25W officially unveiled
Initially, the WPC referred to the new standard as Qi 2.2, but has since concluded that including the power rating in the name is clearer. It is now officially designated as **Qi2 25W**.
The WPC highlights that enhanced speed was the top demand from wireless charger users and assures consumers there will be ample options available.
> Users will be thrilled when they experience Qi2 25W as it provides nearly 70% more power than the original Qi2. The quantity of devices in the Qi2 25W certification queue for launch is unmatched, as is the quality and variety of our members’ product designs.
## But Apple may surpass it
As mentioned last week, however, there is at least a chance that Apple may exceed this with the iPhone 17.
A regulatory listing discovered last month suggested that Apple might be developing a MagSafe charger that supports 45W, as opposed to the 25W maximum of the Qi2 25W standard. Currently, no iPhone supports this speed, but it is possible that the iPhone 17 series will. If that is the case, Qi2 25W chargers won’t be able to support this speed – a new Apple charger would be necessary.
This development wouldn’t surprise me: Apple has been quite liberal in effectively permitting third-party charger brands access to MagSafe, yet it may still reserve an exclusive feature for its own chargers.
Read More**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**
In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, being informed about the latest happenings is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides a straightforward method to stay in the loop on the most significant narratives affecting the Apple ecosystem. This daily podcast presents listeners with a summary of the leading stories, making sure they are aware of the newest advancements in Apple products, software upgrades, and market trends.
**Podcast Accessibility**
Listeners can conveniently find 9to5Mac Daily across various platforms, including:
– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
– [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
– [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
– [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
– [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications.
New episodes are produced every weekday, making it simple for listeners to keep informed. Subscribing to the podcast ensures that new episodes are sent directly to you as they become available.
**Sponsorship and Features**
9to5Mac Daily is backed by Bitwarden, a password management tool that bolsters security with features such as Apple Watch authentication integration and secure autofill on Safari and iOS applications. Bitwarden delivers enterprise-level security solutions, empowering users to handle their credentials securely.
**Exclusive Content and Support**
For those seeking an enhanced experience, listeners have the option to subscribe to 9to5Mac Daily Plus. This subscription provides:
– Ad-free editions of each episode
– Additional content that explores the themes covered in more depth
**Engagement and Community Feedback**
Listeners are invited to provide their insights and opinions. They can connect via email at
Read More### iOS 18.6: Emphasis on Stability and Security
Apple is preparing to unveil iOS 18.6, the highly awaited final significant update prior to the major iOS 26 release this autumn. This update is part of Apple’s standard software development routine, which typically features major updates unveiled during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, succeeded by a fall release.
#### Objective of iOS 18.6
The main goal of iOS 18.6, along with other updates such as macOS 15.6 and watchOS 11.6, is to improve stability and security instead of rolling out new features. Apple is concentrating on maximizing performance and fixing security flaws to facilitate a seamless transition to the forthcoming major OS version.
#### Significant Updates in iOS 18.6
As per the official release notes, iOS 18.6 will include vital bug fixes and security improvements. Importantly, it resolves an issue in the Photos app that could inhibit users from sharing memory movies. These updates are essential for preserving the overall functionality and security of iPhones.
#### Modifications for EU Users
Users within the European Union will observe some modifications concerning the installation of third-party app marketplaces and web-based apps. This change signifies Apple’s continuous efforts to adhere to regional regulations.
#### Possible Features and Release Timeline
While there is conjecture that Apple Intelligence may debut in China alongside iOS 18.6, this remains unclear as the release notes mainly focus on U.S. users. The update is anticipated to roll out shortly, with early next week appearing to be a probable timeframe.
#### Final Thoughts
Even though iOS 18.6 might not present thrilling new features, the emphasis on bug fixes and security improvements is crucial for users. Those anticipating new features will need to hold off until iOS 26, which is projected to launch in just a few months.
Read MoreGoogle Photos and YouTube on Wednesday, followed by Google on Thursday, unveiled three new features designed to enhance your online shopping experience in the back-to-school season and upcoming shopping events.
These features may not be entirely new if you have been keeping a close eye on Google’s AI advancements. Some were introduced at Google I/O 2025 and underwent limited testing through Search Labs experiments. Google is now poised to provide a broader audience access to some of the new AI tools related to shopping that have been developed.
Shoppers in the U.S. will be the initial users of the “try it on” and “track price” functionalities. Both AI features will be accessible in Google Search this week. Later in the fall, Google plans to launch a “vision match” tool in AI Mode, which will first be available to American Google Search users. It remains uncertain when these new shopping-oriented AI features will be available internationally.
Hop in, Google, we’re heading out to shop!
Google is debuting two significant shopping features within Search, designed to enhance activities through AI.
In a statement, Google emphasized the rollout of its virtual AI initiative “Try On” for Search users after its preliminary phase in Labs. As of today (July 24), Google announces that users can “upload a selfie and utilize AI to virtually fit into clothing.” The announcement mentions that users can explore new styles through Search’s Shopping Graph, Google Shopping, and image results in Images.
Selecting a shirt or trousers that catch your eye should reveal Google’s new “try it on” option.
Ookla’s recent speed-test analysis has determined that T-Mobile is this year’s leading mobile network, delivering the fastest overall downloads and the quickest 5G. For home broadband services, AT&T Fiber claimed the top position.
Plans aimed at enhancing broadband speeds, however, have been cast into doubt by the Trump administration, which seeks to discard a goal for every American to access gigabit speeds.
If you have ever assessed your home or mobile broadband speed, there’s a strong likelihood you utilized Ookla’s Speedtest.net. Beyond showing you the speed, the company records all test outcomes – along with the networks used – to establish a thorough overview of the speeds provided by various fixed and mobile networks.
The findings from these millions of tests are then examined and shared in Ookla’s biannual Speedtest Connectivity Report. The company considers raw speeds while also evaluating streaming video performance and a variety of other indicators of actual performance.
### T-Mobile the top mobile network
In the first half of 2025, T-Mobile was recognized as the top mobile network overall, achieving the highest scores in five out of seven categories:
– Fastest
– Most reliable
– Highest 5G availability
– Best gaming performance
– Top customer satisfaction rating
T-Mobile maintained the best mobile network in the United States during 1H 2025 across all technologies, including specifically for 5G. It achieved a median download speed of 245.48 Mbps and a median 5G download speed of 299.36 Mbps.
The two categories it did not dominate were claimed by Verizon:
– Largest geographic coverage
– Best streaming video quality
### AT&T Fiber the leading broadband
Regarding fixed internet, AT&T Fiber was identified as providing the fastest broadband.
AT&T Fiber emerged as the quickest ISP in the United States during 1H 2025 with a median download speed of 363.54 Mbps and a median upload speed of 296.52 Mbps.
### Gigabit broadband objective in jeopardy
Among the responsibilities of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is informing broadband providers of the minimum acceptable speeds they must deliver to all customers.
The current requirement mandates 100Mbps downloads and 20Mbps uploads. A long-term goal was also established to ensure all Americans achieve gigabit speeds – specifically 1Gbps downloads and 500Mbps uploads.
However, Trump’s nominee for the FCC chair is against this long-term objective, and CNET indicates that a vote has been arranged to eliminate it.
One of the federal government’s most ambitious broadband goals could soon be abandoned. On August 7, the FCC will vote on a proposal to retract its aim of gig speeds for every American.
Furthermore, broadband providers will be permitted to take credit for speeds they are in the process of deploying, rather than the speeds they presently provide. Lastly, affordability criteria will also be discarded if the vote is approved.
Read More**Apple Unveils New Store in Osaka, Japan: Emphasis on Accessibility and Community Participation**
Apple has officially revealed the inauguration of its new store in Osaka, Japan, scheduled to open on Saturday. This location, Apple Umeda, is crafted with a notable focus on accessibility, showcasing the company’s dedication to inclusivity in retail spaces.
### Store Design and Accessibility Features
Apple Umeda’s design presents an eye-catching curved facade that is accessible through a covered pathway. Apple has prioritized accessibility in its configuration, guaranteeing that all customers can move through the area easily. The store features adjustable-height tables and seating, spacious pathways for wheelchair users, and portable hearing aids for individuals with hearing difficulties. These components align with Apple’s wider vision of universal design, intending to create environments that invite everyone.
Diadora Obra, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Retail and Human Resources, conveyed excitement about the new store, remarking, “I am thrilled to launch Apple Umeda, an amazing space that showcases the vibrancy of Osaka. This new store is a venue for collaboration with creative communities and local enterprises in Kansai.”
### Community Engagement and Workshops
Beyond its creative design, Apple Umeda will offer numerous workshops as part of its “Today at Apple” initiative. These sessions are intended to involve the local community and enhance customers’ familiarity with Apple offerings. Highlighted workshops include:
– **“Say Hello to Apple Intelligence”**: This session will offer strategies on using Apple Intelligence features to boost daily efficiency and enjoyment.
– **“Let’s Take More Attractive Photos with iPhone”**: Attendees will delve into photography techniques and the advanced camera capabilities of the iPhone 16 series.
### Celebrating Local Culture
True to its tradition, Apple has developed exclusive wallpaper designs to commemorate the opening of the Umeda store, encapsulating local culture and aesthetics. This campaign enables customers to download tailor-made versions of the Apple logo that resonate with the Osaka community.
### Conclusion
The launch of Apple Umeda signifies an important achievement for Apple in Japan, demonstrating the company’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. With its inventive design and interactive workshops, the store is poised to become a lively center for creativity and connection in Osaka. As the doors open at 10 AM on Saturday, it promises to provide an inclusive experience for all guests.
Read More 
Tea Talk/Shutterstock
We may receive a commission on purchases via our links.
Keeping all your devices charged nowadays requires coordination. For Apple Watch owners, this adds to the concern of managing battery life alongside your iPhone. As you integrate more devices, the challenge compounds, and maintaining optimal power levels can feel like an endless endeavor.
Although many users appreciate the battery longevity of the Apple Watch Series 10, you still need the appropriate connection when the charge finally diminishes. An Apple Watch requires a specific accessory for charging — either a cord with a magnetic charger or an alternative enabling wireless charging. After that, it’s simply about ensuring a proper link between the watch and charger to resume charging.
If you’re without your Apple charging device, the choices may appear minimal, but it ultimately revolves around accessing a charging puck or a source for wireless power. Thanks to third-party charging options, recharging your Apple Watch can be straightforward, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
Tea Talk/Shutterstock
**Apple Intelligence Notification Summaries: Modifications and Updates in iOS 26**
In a notable development, Apple has revived notification summaries for news and entertainment applications in the forthcoming iOS 26 update, after a brief halt in the iOS 18.3 update. This decision follows criticisms from numerous publications, including the BBC, concerning the validity of news headlines presented by Apple Intelligence.
### Background
Originally introduced as a premier feature of Apple Intelligence, notification summaries were intended to streamline user notifications by offering succinct overviews. Nevertheless, the feature encountered backlash for inaccurately representing news content, prompting Apple to deactivate it for news and entertainment applications in January 2025.
### Return of Notification Summaries
With the iOS 26 update, Apple has declared the reinstatement of these notification summaries, incorporating significant modifications aimed at improving user experience and addressing earlier issues. Users experimenting with the developer beta have noted that notifications from news applications now display distinct visual elements compared to summaries from other categories of applications.
### New Visual Treatment
A major update includes the addition of a subtitle in notification summaries for news applications, stating “Summarized by Apple Intelligence.” This subtitle, along with italicized summarized text, sets news notifications apart from those of other applications, which lack this extra context.
### User Interaction Enhancements
Apple has also enhanced user interaction concerning notification summaries. During the onboarding phase, users will be asked to opt-in for notification summarization from news applications. Additionally, the Notification Center will present a one-time prompt inquiring if users wish to “continue summarizing groups of notifications from
Read More
