AllYouCanTech

iOS 26 Improves CarPlay by Incorporating Recognizable iPhone Display Attributes

# iOS 26: A Significant Update for CarPlay Users

iOS 26 has rolled out a major update for CarPlay users, introducing a host of new features that improve the overall experience. Among these, the standout feature is the debut of widgets in CarPlay, representing a long-anticipated enhancement to the platform.

## The Significance of Widgets

Widgets have become integral to Apple’s software environment, prominently featured on the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Following the recent launch of spatial widgets in visionOS 26 for the Vision Pro, it was inevitable that CarPlay would also gain its own widget capabilities. This update fulfills a commitment from 2022 when widgets were initially introduced as part of the “next generation” of CarPlay, which has now transformed into what is referred to as CarPlay Ultra.

## How Widgets Operate in CarPlay

With iOS 26, CarPlay can now showcase widgets akin to those on your iPhone, presenting glanceable information tailored to your preferences. Users can personalize the widgets displayed in their vehicle via the iPhone’s Settings app.

### Widget Stacks and Personalization

CarPlay accommodates widget stacks, enabling users to pile up to five widgets and opt for ‘Smart Rotate.’ Native CarPlay applications can provide their unique widgets, but users have broader choices. iOS 26 permits any widget available on the iPhone to be integrated into CarPlay, regardless of whether the app is explicitly designed for CarPlay.

To set up widgets, users can go to Settings ⇾ General ⇾ CarPlay and select their vehicle to see an extensive list of apps with available widgets.

### Display Preferences

Depending on the CarPlay screen size in the vehicle, users can arrange one or two widget stacks for viewing. Some widgets feature customizable options, similar to their iPhone versions. For example, the Up Next widget from Calendar can either replicate the iPhone’s Calendar selection or allow users to pick specific calendars to show, as well as options to display or hide all-day events.

## Improving Safety and Usability

The incorporation of widgets into CarPlay is a sensible advancement, enriching the user experience while ensuring safety on the road. Glanceability is a fundamental aspect of effective widget design, aligning with the objective of preserving CarPlay as a secure and user-friendly platform.

## Conclusion

The rollout of widgets in iOS 26 is a valuable enhancement for CarPlay users, offering new methods to access information swiftly and effectively. With the capability to personalize and stack widgets, users can adapt their CarPlay experience to better meet their needs. As Apple continues to innovate, the integration of widgets into CarPlay is a noteworthy achievement that boosts both functionality and safety.

### Top CarPlay Accessories

For those aiming to further improve their CarPlay experience, investigating the finest CarPlay accessories can offer enhanced functionality and convenience.

iPhone 17: Expense of Do-It-Yourself Repairs for Damaged Parts

Apple has now made self-service repair components available for the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone Air. Here’s what it costs to fix damaged parts by yourself.

### Apple’s Costs for Self-Service iPhone 17 Repair Components

In recent years, Apple has stepped up its commitment to enhancing product repairability. A part of that drive is the accessibility of self-service components that can be purchased online.

Apple’s Self Service Repair Store provides parts for a broad range of products, and it has just incorporated the newest flagship iPhones.

iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air now have repair components available for sale.

Here’s a preview of prices for available components:

**iPhone 17**
– Back Glass: $159
– Battery: $99
– Display: $329
– Enclosure with Battery: $236
– Front Camera: $199

Prices rise a bit for specific components with higher-end models.

**iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max**
– Back Glass: $159
– Battery: $119
– Display: $329 for Pro, $379 for Pro Max
– Enclosure with Battery: $299
– Front Camera: $199

**iPhone Air**
– Back Glass: $159
– Battery: $119
– Display: $329
– Enclosure with Battery: $299
– Front Camera: $199

Have you utilized any of Apple’s self-service components for your own repair before? How did that go? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Essential Features Concealed in the Camera App of iOS 26: A Manual for Uncovering Them

# iOS 26: A Detailed Examination of the Revamped Camera App

iOS 26 has unveiled a major redesign of Apple’s Camera app, a vital feature for numerous iPhone users. Although the update offers a refreshed appearance and experience, some users might feel momentarily lost as recognizable features appear to be absent. This article seeks to clarify these modifications and assist users in navigating the new interface proficiently.

## Major Modifications in the Camera App

Upon launching the revamped Camera app in iOS 26, users may observe that merely two modes—Video and Photo—are prominently featured. This can cause confusion, particularly for those who regularly utilize other modes such as:

– Portrait
– Pano
– Slo-Mo
– Time-Lapse

Despite the noticeable lack of these features, they remain accessible. Apple has chosen to conceal these controls by default to streamline the interface and minimize visual clutter.

## Revealing Hidden Features

To access the extra camera modes, users can effortlessly swipe left or right within the app, just as they did in earlier versions. For example, swiping left from the Photo mode unveils the Portrait mode. This method of transitioning between modes stays the same, enabling users to employ their desired settings without substantial interruption.

## Updated Settings Interface

Another significant modification in iOS 26 is the addition of a new settings icon found in the top-right corner of the Camera app. This grid icon now aggregates various settings that adjust based on the chosen camera mode. For instance, in Photo mode, users can modify settings like:

– Flash
– Live Photos
– Timer
– Exposure
– Photographic Styles
– Aspect Ratio

When in Video mode, the available settings change to encompass options such as Action mode and Dual Capture, depending on the iPhone model.

## User Reactions and Considerations

While the redesign intends to improve the user experience by eliminating clutter from the interface, some users might find the absence of visual indicators for swiping to additional modes bothersome. Many users, including those who predominantly use Photo and Video modes, express a wish for a consistent visual cue that reminds them of the other accessible features.

## Summary

The revamp of the Camera app in iOS 26 marks a bold move towards a more streamlined user experience. Although the changes may perplex some users initially, the essential functionalities remain intact and can be accessed through familiar gestures. As users acclimate to the new layout, feedback will likely influence future updates to ensure that the Camera app continues to cater to the needs of its varied user base.

Threads Unveils Reply Approvals and Improved Activity Feed Filters

Meta is enhancing the user experience on Threads by launching two new features aimed at giving users more control over their posts and interactions. These updates are intended to enrich the management of conversations and interactions on the platform.

### Reply Approvals

Earlier this year, Threads introduced a function that enabled users to conceal replies from their profiles and automatically filter out inappropriate or spammy responses. Expanding on this, Threads is now implementing a reply approvals feature. This allows users to assess and authorize replies before they are visible to the public. If a user opts to disregard a reply, it will be transferred to an “Ignored” tab for possible approval later.

Meta portrays this feature as a means for users to curate the dialogue surrounding their posts, ensuring that discussions stay pertinent and focused. Users can activate reply approvals for specific posts, permitting them to manage interactions at their own pace.

### Activity Feed Filters

Alongside reply approvals, Threads is rolling out two additional filters in the Activity tab: Mentions and People You Follow. These filters are designed to assist users in quickly locating and engaging with the replies that are most significant to them, enhancing their overall experience on the platform. The new filters will complement the existing options, which include All, Follows, Conversations, Reposts, and Verified filters.

Meta underscores its commitment to enhancing Threads based on user input, and these new features exemplify that commitment. For further information on these updates, users can consult Meta’s official blog post.

Current Offers: $100 Discount on 24GB Mac mini, Almost $600 Discount on M4 MacBook Pro, $30 iPhone Air Bumper, and Additional Savings

### Thursday’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break Deals

This Thursday, 9to5Toys has gathered an enthralling selection of deals, particularly emphasizing Apple products. Key discounts feature a notable price reduction on the M4 Mac mini and open-box savings on the M4 Pro MacBook Pro. Here’s a detailed examination of the highlights.

#### 1. **M4 Mac Mini with 24GB RAM – $100 Off**

B&H is presenting the most budget-friendly M4 Mac mini setup with 24GB of RAM for **$699**, reduced from its standard price of **$799**. This transaction signifies a robust **$100 price drop** and aligns with previous mentions of this price. The model encompasses 256GB of storage and is an official configuration, not a customized build. For users who value RAM over storage, this is an outstanding choice, especially since external SSDs can provide extra storage.

#### 2. **Apple 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro – Up to $598 Off**

Best Buy has an attractive deal on the 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro, offering an **open-box discount of $545**, lowering the price to **$1,953.99**. This model includes 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. The unit is in “excellent” condition, confirmed by Geek Squad, and comes with a one-year Apple warranty. For those contemplating a brand-new model, Amazon has it priced at **$2,189**, which is also a significant discount but still above the open-box offer.

#### 3. **Apple iPhone Air Bumper Case – $30**

With the arrival of the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple’s official iPhone Air bumper case is now priced at **$29.99**, nearly **25% off** its usual price of **$39**. This case is engineered for edge protection while preserving the iPhone’s sleek aesthetics. It boasts a new button design for enhanced tactile feedback. Both the Black and Light Blue options are available at this price, making it a fantastic accessory for iPhone Air users.

#### 4. **Latest M4 MacBook Air – $200 Off**

The latest M4 MacBook Air models are experiencing a **$200 price reduction**, with deals accessible at both Amazon and Best Buy. These discounts pertain to various configurations, making it an opportune moment to buy if you’re in the market for a new MacBook Air. While greater discounts may materialize during the upcoming Black Friday sales, the current offers are robust for those aiming to upgrade now.

### Conclusion

These deals reflect some of the finest offers available this week for Apple products, especially for those seeking a new Mac mini or MacBook Pro. With substantial savings on accessories like the iPhone Air bumper case, it’s an ideal chance to enhance your tech setup. Remain vigilant on these deals, as they might not endure for long!

“Slow Horses Creator Talks About Leaving Apple TV Series”

**Slow Horses: A Change in Leadership as Season 5 Comes to an End**

“Slow Horses,” the celebrated spy drama on Apple TV, has just launched its season 5 finale, signaling an important shift for the series. This season not only concludes the present narrative but also represents the final chapter for creator and showrunner Will Smith, who has chosen to depart from the show despite its renewal for two more seasons.

### Showrunner Will Smith’s Exit

In a recent interview, Will Smith detailed the reasons for his exit. He pointed to the demanding production schedule as a major factor, indicating that the responsibilities of the role became progressively difficult. The tight deadlines for season 6, which overlapped with the editing of season 3 and the filming of season 4, made it clear to him that he would be unable to meet the obligations necessary for the forthcoming season.

Smith conveyed that his choice was not made lightly, stating, “It wasn’t a decision. It was a practical acceptance of reality.” He recognized the challenge of managing multiple seasons at once and ultimately concluded that he could not remain in his role without jeopardizing the quality of the show.

### Future of Slow Horses

Despite his exit, Smith is hopeful about the future of “Slow Horses.” Apple TV has appointed Gabby Chiappe and Ben Vanstone to assume the showrunner roles for seasons 6 and 7, respectively. Smith showed faith in the incoming leadership, commending the team and cast, and highlighted that the source material, based on Mick Herron’s novels, will continue to offer rich content for the series.

“It’s an incredible team. It’s an incredible cast. It’s an incredible production,” he stated, affirming that the show is in skilled hands and will keep flourishing.

### Upcoming Seasons

Season 6 of “Slow Horses” has already been shot, with a trailer featured at the conclusion of the season 5 finale. Fans can anticipate the new season to debut in summer or fall 2026. The series has cultivated a devoted fan base, and with the assurance of new leadership, viewers are keen to witness how the story evolves.

### Conclusion

As “Slow Horses” progresses without its original showrunner, the series finds itself at a crucial juncture. Will Smith’s exit denotes the closure of a significant chapter, but his trust in the new creative team indicates that the show will persist in providing the thrilling stories that fans cherish. With the upcoming seasons already in progress, “Slow Horses” is set for a bright future on Apple TV.

Recent Advancements: Touchscreen Mac Computers, OLED iPad Mini, and Ads in Apple Maps

### Apple’s Future Strategies: Insights from Bloomberg Reports

Recent insights from Bloomberg have ignited conversations regarding Apple’s bold future strategies, such as the launch of touchscreen Macs, advertising within Apple Maps, and a new OLED iPad mini. These advancements reflect Apple’s persistent dedication to innovation and responsiveness to market dynamics.

#### Touchscreen Macs

One of the most discussed prospective alterations is the addition of touchscreen capabilities in Macs. This initiative could connect traditional computing with the touch-focused experiences that have become standard in mobile gadgets. By incorporating touchscreen technology, Apple might improve user engagement and unlock new avenues for software applications, especially in creative industries.

#### Ads in Apple Maps

Another noteworthy report emphasizes Apple’s plan to integrate advertisements into Apple Maps. This approach could create a fresh revenue source for the company while enhancing user engagement through targeted promotions and increased visibility for local businesses. Nonetheless, striking a balance between user satisfaction and revenue generation will be vital, as users may respond unfavorably to disruptive ads.

#### OLED iPad Mini

The expected launch of an OLED iPad mini is also stirring anticipation. OLED technology is known for delivering enhanced display quality with superior contrast and color precision, making it a compelling choice for users who depend on their devices for entertainment and productivity. This enhancement could elevate the iPad mini to a top contender in the compact tablet arena.

### Podcast Insights

In the recent episode of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast, hosts Chance Miller and Benjamin Mayo explore these reports, sharing their insights on what these modifications might signify for Apple and its consumers. The dialogue offers listeners a richer understanding of the implications of these changes.

### Join the Conversation

Listeners are invited to connect with the hosts by sending questions or feedback through social media channels such as Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads, or by emailing [email protected].

### Subscribe for More

For those keen on exclusive content, the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription provides ad-free episodes, pre- and post-show material, and bonus episodes for a monthly fee. This subscription model directly supports the hosts and offers fans more insights into the technology landscape.

### Conclusion

As Apple persists in innovating and adjusting to evolving consumer demands, the outlook seems bright with these prospective advancements. The incorporation of touchscreen technology, advertising in Apple Maps, and the debut of an OLED iPad mini could transform user experiences and reinforce Apple’s status within the tech sector.

Affinity Unveils No-Cost Comprehensive Application Incorporating Native Canva Connectivity

Affinity has unveiled a comprehensive redesign of its design suite, merging all its tools into one app for vector, photo, and layout tasks, and making it permanently free.

### ‘Presenting the brand-new Affinity: professional design, now accessible to everyone”

Starting today, users can acquire the new Affinity app, which integrates vector, photo, and layout tools into a single platform. Affinity is now entirely free, indefinitely.

Ash Hewson, CEO of Affinity, remarked, “There’s no hidden agenda, no simplified version, and no surprises. The same accurate, high-performance tools that professionals depend on daily are now available to everyone, as creative freedom should not incur a cost.”

The all-new Affinity was reimagined to provide a fluid experience for transitioning between vector, photo, and layout tasks. It includes a fully adjustable interface, enabling users to tailor their workspace and tools for quick access.

“Creatives can mix and match tools from the Vector, Pixel, and Layout studios to create a workspace that accommodates their individual workflow. Rearrange panels, select the tools you require, eliminate the ones you don’t, and save various configurations for different projects or tasks. Custom studios can also be shared and downloaded, fostering new opportunities for teams and creative communities to share workflows and learn from each other,” Hewson added.

Affinity’s development was influenced by Canva’s Designer Advisory Board and carried out in partnership with creators. “This launch embodies what professionals have indicated is most important: performance, reliability, and creative freedom,” stated Hewson.

### Affinity + Canva

Following last year’s acquisition of Affinity by Canva, today’s announcement enhances integration between the two platforms. For Canva premium account holders, Canva AI’s tools are now accessible directly within Affinity through the new Canva AI Studio. This includes features like Generative Fill, Expand & Edit, and Remove Background, which improve efficiency while granting designers complete control over their projects.

The integration also provides a streamlined method for sharing Affinity projects to Canva, simplifying collaboration with colleagues or clients.

### Availability

The new Affinity is available today for Mac and Windows, with an iPad version expected to launch next year. Canva users can activate the new Affinity with their current account, while both existing Affinity customers and new users will need to create a free Canva account to download it.

iPad Mini 7 Review After Year One: An In-Depth Look at Its Flexibility and Capability

# The Flexibility of the iPad Mini 7: A Year in Review

The iPad mini 7 has made its mark as a favorite gadget among its users, particularly due to its flexibility and user-friendly nature. Although it may not rank as the most powerful tablet in Apple’s collection, it fulfills numerous roles, making it a preferred option for both families and individuals. This article delves into the device’s specifications, design, everyday functionality, and desired features for future models, assessing its influence over the past year.

## Specs

The iPad mini 7 features remarkable specifications that boost its performance and ease of use:

– **Chip**: A17 Pro (same as iPhone 15 Pro)
– **Display**: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina (326 ppi, 60Hz)
– **Camera**: 12MP rear, 12MP front
– **Charging & Port**: USB-C (USB2 speeds)
– **Biometrics**: Touch ID on the lock button
– **Audio**: Stereo speakers (top and bottom)
– **Accessories**: Apple Pencil Pro & Apple Pencil USB-C support

The transition to the A17 Pro chip has greatly enhanced performance, offering improved efficiency along with support for the latest iPadOS updates. This advancement has positioned the iPad mini 7 as a dependable tool for a variety of tasks.

## Design

The iPad mini 7’s design prioritizes portability and comfort. Its compact dimensions allow it to seamlessly fit into bags, purses, and even certain pockets, offering ease of access for users on the move. The device is comfortable to hold in either portrait or landscape modes, resembling a larger, sturdier iPhone.

A noteworthy design aspect is the volume rocker, which adjusts its orientation based on how the device is held. While Touch ID operates effectively, some might prefer Face ID for its greater convenience. Generally, the design stays true to Apple’s industrial design ethos, though there are aspirations for slimmer bezels in upcoming models.

## Everyday Use and Performance

The iPad mini 7 has showcased its reliability for a variety of daily tasks. Its performance remains robust, with quick responsiveness and impressive battery longevity. The display, while not as sophisticated as Pro models, still offers a pleasing viewing experience for the majority of users.

### 1. Casual Use

In terms of casual usage, the iPad mini 7 shines in content consumption. Whether it’s for streaming shows, watching movies, or scrolling through social media, its size makes it effortlessly manageable. Users often favor it over larger devices for its comfortable grip during prolonged viewing sessions.

### 2. Parental Use

As a household device, the iPad mini 7 proves valuable for children’s education. With an abundance of educational games and resources, it encourages interactive learning experiences. The Apple Pencil capability also assists in fostering writing and drawing skills. Furthermore, it can serve as a baby monitor when paired with compatible camera systems.

### 3. Family Home Hub

The iPad mini 7 operates as a hub for controlling smart home gadgets. Its size provides easy access to settings for lights, thermostats, and security cameras, making it a sensible choice for family use.

### 4. Workflow Integration

In professional environments, the iPad mini 7 can be employed for taking notes, editing photos, and even as a primary display during video shoots. The newly introduced windowing system in iPadOS permits multitasking, although some users may find it tricky on the smaller screen.

## iPad Mini 8 Wishlist

Looking to the future, several improvements are desired in the next version of the iPad mini:

– **OLED Display**: For enhanced color precision and contrast.
– **120Hz ProMotion**: To increase display fluidity.
– **Faster USB-C or Thunderbolt**: For speedier file transfers.
– **Face ID**: To simplify unlocking.
– **Smart Connector**: For accessory compatibility and charging options.

## Final Thoughts

After a year of experience, the iPad mini 7 has proven to be an indispensable device for a wide range of users, from casual consumers to families and professionals. Its versatility and user-friendliness make it a notable option within Apple’s offerings. Priced at $499, it frequently undergoes discounts, making it a compelling choice for those in search of a dependable tablet experience.

For those keen on discovering the iPad mini 7’s features, be sure to watch video reviews that highlight its various applications.

Upcoming Apple Launches for November 2023

October is nearing its end, and all indications suggest that Apple is set to unveil new hardware and software in November. Here’s what to anticipate.

## iOS 26.1 and additional software updates

Apple is likely to roll out its next significant batch of software updates within the upcoming week.

iOS 26.1 includes a wealth of new functionalities, such as:

iPadOS 26.1 also reintroduces Slide Over as a partner to the current windowing system. This feature allows you to select an app to hover over other windows, providing a fresh multitasking method that complements the robust enhancements in iPadOS 26.

Most of Apple’s other 26.1 changes are relatively trivial, apart from macOS Tahoe, which presents a similar Liquid Glass ‘Tinted’ option like iOS.

## Three or more new hardware items speculated

Traditionally, Apple usually announces its final major products of the year in October.

This year, we did see the M5 iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, and Vision Pro. However, there are still three more new products rumored for release this year, almost certainly debuting in November.

A new **Apple TV 4K** is expected, featuring an upgraded A17 Pro chip that should support Apple Intelligence. The N1 wireless chip will also be part of the package, and a built-in camera may also be a possibility.

**HomePod mini 2** is likewise rumored to launch alongside the Apple TV. Expect enhanced audio quality, updates to several internal components, and possibly new color options.

**AirTag 2** has been awaited for months but has yet to be released. When it arrives, it’s anticipated to feature an improved Ultra Wideband chip for enhanced Precision Finding, along with better security enhancements.

Apple might also surprise us with a budget-friendly 12.9-inch MacBook just prior to the holiday season, though timing rumors suggest early 2026 is more feasible.

## The initial iOS 26.2 betas

Following its typical routine, Apple is expected to issue the first iOS 26.2 betas soon after the public rollout of iOS 26.1.

This means beta testers may gain access to iOS 26.2 as soon as this coming week.

If not during the upcoming week, the new batch of 26.2 betas should be available by the second week of November.

Apple generally launches its x.2 software in mid-December just before the holiday season. This timeline pressure makes it crucial for Apple to begin the beta testing phase—and it’s already a bit behind, with iOS 26.1 debuting a week later than standard.

## Highly anticipated Pluribus series on Apple TV

Apple TV boasts a varied selection of shows and movies set to premiere in November, all of which can be found here.

The highlight, however, is undoubtedly **Pluribus**, debuting on **Friday, November 7**.

Pluribus is a new sci-fi drama from *Breaking Bad* and *Better Call Saul* creator Vince Gilligan.

Considering Gilligan’s involvement, the intriguing subject matter, and Apple’s enigmatic marketing, Pluribus has risen to the level of one of the platform’s most eagerly awaited launches of the year.

*The New York Times* recently referred to Pluribus as “as significant as modern TV gets,” fueling excitement for a potential Severance-level success for Apple.

What are you most eager to see Apple unveil in November? Share your thoughts in the comments.