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Improvements to Live Activities in iOS 26 for iPhone: Major Updates and Functionality

**Live Activities in iOS 26: Improvements and Fresh Features**

Live Activities have emerged as one of the most valued features on the iPhone, and with the latest advancements in iOS 26, their capabilities have broadened considerably. Here’s a comprehensive summary of what’s been added and refined.

### Fitness App Incorporates Live Activities for Workouts

Once limited to the Apple Watch, running workouts are now fully integrated into the Fitness app on the iPhone, particularly with the addition of heart rate tracking in AirPods Pro 3. A standout upgrade in iOS 26 is the automatic launch of Live Activities anytime a workout commences. Whether you start your workout on your iPhone or Apple Watch, a Live Activity will display on your Lock Screen and in the Dynamic Island, facilitating easy monitoring of your workout duration and the option to pause exercises as required.

### Scheduling Live Activities for Future Use

Building upon last year’s feature in the Sports app, iOS 26 introduces a new developer API that allows third-party applications to schedule Live Activities. This means that Live Activities can now automatically activate at predetermined times, such as the start of a game, opening opportunities for creative applications across different platforms.

### Live Activities for Wallet’s Revised Boarding Passes

The Wallet app has received major enhancements in iOS 26, including upgraded boarding pass functionalities. One of the main improvements is the addition of Live Activity support for boarding passes, permitting users to access vital flight information directly from their Lock Screen. Furthermore, these Live Activities can be shared, allowing users to transmit flight tracking details to friends or family.

### CarPlay in iOS 26 Introduces Live Activities

Apple has concentrated on enhancing Live Activities across various platforms, and with iOS 26, CarPlay now includes this functionality. Live Activities from your iPhone will smoothly sync with the CarPlay Home Screen, enabling users to keep track of a range of activities such as flight updates, food deliveries, and sports scores while driving.

### Mac and iPad Also Support Live Activities Now

In a notable development, Apple has brought Live Activities to Mac and iPad through macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26. Each platform offers a distinct experience:

– **Mac**: Live Activities from the iPhone will be available in macOS Tahoe as an extension of iPhone Mirroring. Users can access Live Activities in the menu bar and expand them for additional information.

– **iPad**: Live Activities are integrated into the new Background Tasks feature, which is especially beneficial for professionals engaged in demanding tasks like video exports. Users can monitor these activities without having to keep the app open.

### Conclusion

The updates to Live Activities in iOS 26 signify a major progression of this feature, enhancing its versatility and integration within Apple’s ecosystem. Whether for fitness tracking, event scheduling, travel monitoring, or multitasking on Mac and iPad, Live Activities are poised to significantly enrich user experience. Which new features are you looking forward to the most?

Apple TV Unveils Official Trailer for ‘Born to be Wild’

Apple has released the inaugural trailer for its eagerly awaited wildlife docuseries, “Born to be Wild,” which is scheduled to debut on December 19. This six-part series, narrated by Hugh Bonneville, enhances Apple TV’s expanding library of natural world programming.

“Born to be Wild” follows the journey of six at-risk young animals, such as cheetahs, penguins, and elephants, and showcases the partnership between humans and wildlife conservation initiatives. Shot over several years in five different countries, the series aims to offer a close-up view of the obstacles and victories experienced by these animals and the devoted people striving to safeguard them.

The series highlights the narratives of several animals, including an elephant calf, two young cheetahs, a ring-tailed lemur pup, a moon bear cub, Iberian lynx kittens, and rescued African penguins. It underscores the deep emotional bonds between these creatures and the humans dedicated to their recovery and return to the wild, ultimately working to preserve their species.

Audiences can view the trailer for “Born to be Wild” on Apple TV, where the series will be accessible for streaming. An Apple TV subscription is available for $12.99 per month, offering a wide selection of popular shows and films.

For additional details and to watch the trailer, visit

tvOS 26.2 Launches Updated Release Candidate for Apple TV 4K Before Official Debut

Apple has recently introduced an updated release candidate (RC) version for its forthcoming tvOS 26.2 software update, merely a day after the original RC version was provided to developers and public beta testers. This modified build, marked by the build number 23K53, aims to fix significant bugs found in the earlier version, 23K51, prior to the anticipated public launch as soon as next week.

The tvOS 26.2 update is poised to bring a variety of new features, especially focused on improving user profiles on the Apple TV 4K. Notably, users will now be able to establish new profiles without the necessity of an associated Apple Account. Moreover, the update will feature options for children’s profiles that limit content in Apple’s TV app to titles suitable for their age, fostering a safer viewing atmosphere for younger viewers.

In addition to these new functionalities, tvOS 26.2 will also deliver various bug fixes and enhancements in performance, which are essential for ensuring a seamless user experience. The specific alterations between the two RC builds have not been revealed, but the launch of a revised build typically suggests that Apple has implemented essential changes to rectify any urgent issues prior to the official launch.

As the release date nears, users currently testing the tvOS 26.2 update are encouraged to contribute their experiences and any new insights in the comments. This feedback is invaluable for both Apple and the community as they get ready for the official rollout of the software update.

Apple Reveals Exit of Two More Senior Executives

Apple’s executive transition continues as the company reveals the retirement of two significant leaders: Katherine Adams, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, and Lisa Jackson, Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives. The news was shared in a press release, indicating that Jackson will retire in late January 2026, with Adams following in late 2026.

Jennifer Newstead, an experienced attorney who has served as the legal adviser for the U.S. Department of State and most recently as Meta’s Chief Legal Officer, will step into the role of General Counsel at Apple on March 1, 2026.

Regarding organizational shifts, Lisa Jackson’s Government Affairs team will be reassigned to Katherine Adams, who will manage it until her retirement. Following Adams’ exit, Newstead will lead this team and take on the position of Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Government Affairs. Meanwhile, the Environment and Social Initiatives teams will report to Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, Sabih Khan.

Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, conveyed his appreciation for Adams’ contributions, emphasizing her commitment to customer privacy and strategic perspectives. He also recognized Jackson’s impact in lowering Apple’s global greenhouse emissions and her engagement with governments on various matters.

These retirements form part of a larger pattern of senior departures at Apple, which recently saw John Giannandrea, Senior Vice President for Machine Learning and AI Strategy, and Alan Dye, Vice President of Human Interface Design, leave. Other notable resignations include COO Jeff Williams and CFO Luca Maestri. There is speculation regarding Tim Cook’s future as CEO, with reports indicating he might resign as early as next year.

For further information, the complete announcement can be accessed on Apple’s official website.

9to5Mac Daily: December 4, 2025 – Apple Design VP Leaves for Meta

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, being informed about the latest developments is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily acts as a dependable resource for daily summaries of the most important news within the Apple universe. The podcast can be accessed on numerous platforms, such as iTunes, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, and through a specific RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast applications.

**Daily Episodes and Content**

Fresh episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday, guaranteeing that listeners receive prompt updates on the newest events in the tech sphere. The podcast addresses a variety of subjects, including product reveals, software upgrades, and industry movements, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about Apple products and services.

**Subscription Benefits**

Listeners have the option to subscribe to 9to5Mac Daily to obtain new episodes as soon as they are released. Additionally, those seeking a premium experience can subscribe to 9to5Mac Daily Plus, which offers various perks, including ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus material. This subscription approach not only backs the creators but also enhances the listening experience.

**Engagement and Feedback**

9to5Mac Daily fosters listener engagement. Followers are encouraged to express their opinions and comments via email, and they can also rate the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Overcast. This feedback helps the team gain a better understanding of their audience and refine the content provided.

**Sponsorship and Promotions**

The podcast frequently includes sponsorships and promotional offers, such as the recent Black Friday deals from Narwal, which provided substantial discounts on their product range. These promotions give listeners chances to discover new products at lower prices while supporting the podcast.

**Conclusion**

For anyone wanting to stay updated on Apple news, 9to5Mac Daily is an essential resource. With its succinct format, captivating content, and dedication to listener engagement, it distinguishes itself as a leading podcast in the tech arena. Whether you’re a casual user or a devoted Apple enthusiast, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily will ensure you stay informed in the continuously changing tech landscape.

Rivian Set to Launch Apple Wallet Car Keys Compatibility in Upcoming Software Update for R1T and R1S Models

Rivian’s Chief Software Officer Wassym Bensaid announced today that the .46 OTA update will introduce Digital Key support for the second-generation R1S and R1T. Here’s what this entails.

## Unlock using the iPhone and Apple Watch, even with a dead battery

With today’s announcement, Bensaid confirmed that later this month, the .46 OTA update will enable iPhone users to save their key for a Gen 2 Rivian in their Apple Wallet, and utilize their iPhone or Apple Watch to lock and unlock their vehicle.

The update will provide full Digital Key support, including UWB capabilities for high precision, and NFC support, which, as he stated, “unlocks (…) even if your phone battery dies” for up to 5 hours using Power Reserve on compatible devices.

Additionally, the update will allow for sending a digital key via text, permitting a friend or contact to approach the vehicle and lock, unlock, or start it.

Furthermore, the update will increase the maximum number of digital keys per vehicle from 4 to 8, “making it simpler than ever to manage access for family and friends,” as per Rivian.

Besides the iPhone and Apple Watch, the .46 update will also extend full Digital Key support to Google and Samsung digital wallets.

## But wasn’t this already available?

Not exactly. Until now, Rivian’s digital key on first-gen R1T and R1S models depended on their app via Bluetooth, instead of a native system-level key.

In simpler terms, there was no integration with Apple Wallet, no support for Google or Samsung Wallet, no UWB for precise proximity, and no method to unlock the vehicle with your phone when the battery was depleted.

With the Gen 2 hardware platform (particularly the new UWB modules), Rivian is transitioning to true OS-level digital keys in the Wallet app, which operate over UWB, can be shared via text, and continue to function even when the iPhone is out of battery.

iPhone 17e Design Enhancements and Intel’s Contribution to Mac Chip Advancement

### Apple Product Speculations: iPhone 17e Design Modifications, Intel’s Involvement in Chip Manufacturing, and ChatGPT’s Incorporation with Apple Health

**Introduction**

In the continuously changing realm of technology, Apple persists in leading the way in innovation. This week, a number of captivating speculations have surfaced regarding forthcoming products and features, such as the awaited iPhone 17e, possible collaboration with Intel for chip manufacturing, and the incorporation of ChatGPT with Apple Health. Here’s a detailed look at these advancements.

#### iPhone 17e’s Two Design Modifications

Recent insights indicate that the iPhone 17e will incorporate two major design modifications. Initially set to replace the conventional notch with a Dynamic Island, the upcoming model will also showcase thinner bezels in comparison to its predecessor. This design evolution implies that the front of the iPhone 17e will closely mirror that of the base iPhone 17, appealing to cost-conscious consumers desiring modern aesthetics without the higher price point.

The design approach of the iPhone 17e demonstrates Apple’s continuous endeavor to diversify its product range while sustaining a balance of features across various models. With the base iPhone 17 reportedly performing well in sales, the launch of the iPhone 17e is unlikely to disrupt its market but may attract a new demographic of buyers searching for a more economical choice with appealing design aspects.

#### Intel May Begin Producing Apple’s M-Class Chips

In an unexpected twist, Apple might re-establish a partnership with Intel as a production associate for its M-class chips, specifically focusing on lower-end models such as the M7. This potential collaboration signifies a considerable change from Apple’s earlier dependency on Intel for chip manufacturing prior to the unveiling of its own silicon in 2020.

Teaming up with Intel could provide Apple with enhanced flexibility and diminish its reliance on TSMC, its current chip producer. By broadening its production options, Apple seeks to strengthen its negotiating leverage and guarantee a more reliable supply chain for its chip manufacturing requirements.

#### ChatGPT App Receiving Apple Health Integration

In a thrilling advancement for health and fitness aficionados, OpenAI is reportedly developing an integration of Apple Health with its ChatGPT app. A recent code leak unveiled intentions for this feature, which is anticipated to debut early next year. This integration will enable users to utilize ChatGPT for personalized health guidance based on their Apple Health data.

Though some users might have privacy and data security concerns, the integration will likely be voluntary, permitting individuals to decide whether to share their health details. This initiative resonates with Apple’s broader strategy to elevate user experience through AI-enhanced services, particularly as rivals venture into similar integrations.

**Conclusion**

As Apple continues to innovate and broaden its product capabilities, these speculations underscore the company’s strategic choices in design, manufacturing, and user integration. The expected iPhone 17e, possible partnership with Intel, and ChatGPT’s incorporation with Apple Health all indicate a future where Apple remains a pivotal force in the technology sphere. As these developments progress, both consumers and industry observers will be eager to see how they influence the market and user experience.