Author: Richard

iOS 26.2 is the newest iPhone software upgrade, bringing various novel features that improve customization and usability. Here’s a summary of the main updates.

## 1: Enhanced Liquid Glass Slider for Lock Screen Clock

The Lock Screen is an essential element of making your iPhone personal. With iOS 26.2, Apple has improved the Liquid Glass aesthetic for the Lock Screen clock. Users can now modify the clock’s opacity with a wider slider, facilitating greater transparency or opacity than previously available. To utilize this feature, make sure your clock is set to the ‘Glass’ option and try out the slider to achieve your preferred appearance. This upgraded slider works with any font choice, although the clock size can only be modified with the default font.

## 2: New Screen Flash for Notifications

iOS 26.2 brings a fresh visual notification feature that complements the existing camera flash alert. Users can now activate a ‘Screen’ option under Settings ⇾ Accessibility ⇾ Audio & Visual ⇾ Flash for Alerts. When enabled, notifications will cause the iPhone’s screen to light up completely for a brief moment, improving visibility for incoming notifications. This feature can be used alongside the camera flash for a more significant notification impact, particularly advantageous for users who may experience hearing challenges.

## 3: Reminders Alarm Options

The Reminders app in iOS 26.2 features a new ‘Urgent’ toggle for time-sensitive reminders. This option allows users to create reminders that trigger an alarm on the Lock Screen when they are due. The alarm offers options to ‘Snooze’ or ‘Stop,’ much like a conventional alarm clock. Users can personalize this behavior in Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Reminders, where they can substitute the ‘Snooze’ option with a ‘Complete’ button. This button not only halts the alarm but also marks the reminder as done, simplifying task management for users who favor immediate action.

These enhancements in iOS 26.2 offer users improved customization opportunities and enhanced accessibility features, tailoring the iPhone experience more closely to individual preferences and requirements.

### M1 MacBook Air Continues to Function Well After Stopping Artillery Fragment

Apple devices are known for their resilience, and the latest proof of this is particularly astonishing. A soldier from Ukraine shared an account of how his M1 MacBook Air intercepted a fragment from an artillery shell while continuing to operate effectively.

#### An Incredible Survival Tale

Most of us are fortunate enough not to find ourselves in situations where artillery shell fragments are zipping through the air. However, a soldier from the Azov Brigade seems to be an exception. He recently shared compelling evidence showcasing the toughness of the MacBook Air design. His M1 MacBook Air blocked a fragment from an artillery shell and remains in remarkable working condition.

You can observe the damage in the post below:

> “@Apple MacBook Air 2020 M1 intercepted a fragment from an artillery shell 🤙” — Лаꑭевич (@lanevychs)

Another post features a video demonstrating macOS running smoothly, despite some apparent display issues.

#### Prior Examples of Resilience

In 2022, images circulated of an iPhone that reportedly protected a Ukrainian soldier from a bullet. While this recent MacBook Air incident may not be as dramatic, it further underscores the high quality of Apple products.

What’s your most unforgettable story about the durability of Apple hardware? Share with us in the comments.

**iPadOS 26: A Revolutionary Update for the iPad**

Since its redesign in 2018, the iPad Pro has progressed notably, especially with the launch of iPadOS 26 in 2025. This update represented a crucial turning point, converting the iPad into a more competent alternative to traditional computers, resolving many of the issues that had previously limited its capabilities.

### What iPadOS 26 Truly Delivered to the iPad

The iPadOS 26 update brought forth numerous quality-of-life enhancements that collectively transformed the iPad into what feels like an entirely new device. Here are the key modifications:

#### True Windowed Multitasking

One of the most important advancements is the launch of complete windowing mode, similar to that of macOS. This feature enables users to:

– Resize windows without restrictions.
– Use Mac-style window controls.
– Keep numerous apps open at the same time (up to 12 in a single view).
– Transition between tasks more intuitively.

This revamped multitasking experience eradicates the gimmicky aspects of earlier versions like Stage Manager, simplifying the management of multiple windows and boosting productivity.

#### Files App Overhaul

The Files app underwent a significant redesign, evolving into a more sophisticated file management utility. Noteworthy enhancements include:

– Customizable column views for superior organization.
– Simplified navigation and improved information display for files and folders.
– Features that resemble a desktop-class file manager.

The inclusion of dockable folders permits users to pin frequently accessed folders, greatly enhancing workflow efficiency.

#### Background Task and Audio Source Switching

These features improve the overall user experience by enabling background tasks to operate without disrupting other activities. For instance, users can now export video files while simultaneously engaging in other projects. Furthermore, the capability to switch audio sources directly from the control center eases the management of audio inputs.

### What’s Still Lacking?

Notwithstanding these advancements, certain limitations remain intrinsic to iPadOS:

– Absence of genuine terminal access.
– No full-fledged desktop-class coding environments.
– Restricted system-level control.
– Inability to support multiple simultaneous audio sources.

Additionally, the iPad’s dependence on the App Store for software can hinder users familiar with desktop environments where applications can be directly downloaded from the internet.

### Concluding Remarks

The introduction of iPadOS 26 signifies a substantial breakthrough for the iPad, uniting the functionalities of tablets and computers. Apple has seamlessly woven Mac-like features into the iPad’s touch-first framework. This update is not merely about rendering the iPad more akin to a Mac; it’s about establishing a distinct position for the iPad within the realm of computing.

For numerous users, iPadOS 26 may finally suffice for considering the iPad as their primary computing device. However, for others, certain limitations might still present challenges. Regardless, the update has rendered the iPad more flexible and user-friendly, offering a computer-like experience even on the standard A16 iPad model.

As users further investigate the potentials of iPadOS 26, discussions regarding its viability as a primary computer will undoubtedly progress. What remains to be observed is how Apple will continue to cater to its users’ needs in subsequent updates.

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To for Daily Apple Updates and Analysis**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the latest updates is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides an effortless way to stay informed about the most important stories impacting the Apple ecosystem. The podcast is recorded every weekday, offering listeners a summary of the leading stories, insights, and conversations regarding Apple products and services.

**Where to Access**

Listeners can catch 9to5Mac Daily on multiple platforms, guaranteeing accessibility no matter personal choices. The podcast can be found on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts application](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.

**Content Summary**

Each episode of 9to5Mac Daily explores the latest happenings in the Apple universe, delving into various subjects from product launches to software upgrades and industry updates. The discussions aim to be both educational and captivating, providing listeners with the information they need without feeling overloaded.

**Subscription Advantages**

For those seeking a premium listening experience, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus offers numerous advantages, such as:

– Ad-free editions of every episode
– Access to exclusive content

Listeners can subscribe directly through the [9to5Mac Daily site](https://9to5mac.com/join/) to gain access to these features.

**Community Interaction**

9to5Mac Daily promotes listener participation. Fans of the podcast can express their opinions and feedback by emailing [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Additionally, listeners are encouraged to rate the podcast on sites like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) or recommend it on [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) to help broaden its audience.

**Sponsorship and Advertising**

The podcast also includes sponsorships, featuring promotions for Roborock’s top vacuums, giving listeners chances to save on sought-after items. These sponsorships support the podcast while providing value to the listeners.

**Final Thoughts**

9to5Mac Daily emerges as a trustworthy source for Apple news, merging educational content with community participation. Whether you’re a seasoned Apple user or new to the ecosystem, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily guarantees you remain up-to-date with the latest changes in the Apple realm.

Apple introduced a completely new M5 Vision Pro update last autumn, but a recent report suggests it might not have significantly influenced the ailing Vision Pro sales.

### Vision Pro Sales in M5 Model’s Launch Quarter Estimated at Merely 45,000 Units

Apple has not disclosed sales figures for the Vision Pro, but a recent Financial Times article depicts a grim situation for the product as 2026 begins.

The article highlights a number of adverse trends for Vision Pro:

1. Low sales projections for Q4 2025
2. Marked decrease in digital advertising
3. General decline in VR devices

IDC is mentioned as indicating that only 45,000 new Vision Pro units were anticipated to be sold during the 2025 holiday quarter, coinciding with the launch of the M5 model.

Data from Sensor Tower indicates that Apple has slashed its Vision Pro digital marketing budget this year by more than 95% in both the US and UK.

Lastly, the report underscores an overall softening of the VR headset market. According to Counterpoint, the past year witnessed a 14% drop.

### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

Since Apple does not publish official sales figures, it is challenging to confirm the validity of these differing reports. While it is evident that Vision Pro has not achieved notable success, I am cautious about placing too much emphasis on these precise figures.

Apple has significant endeavors to undertake to turn Vision Pro into a consumer favorite, but I am optimistic about the advancements made in visionOS since its release. The M5 model’s enhancements in comfort, battery endurance, and performance exceeded expectations as well.

The glasses form factor still appears to be the direction Vision Pro is heading towards, and in that regard, 2026 could be a particularly thrilling year. However, I do not anticipate Vision Pro will unexpectedly transform into a surprise success in the interim.

What are your thoughts on this report regarding the condition of the Vision Pro? Share your views in the comments.

### Top Vision Pro Accessories

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.*

### January Could Start a Hectic Year of New Apple Offerings

As Apple prepares for 2026, the company is anticipated to unveil more than 20 new offerings, with January likely signaling the start of this thrilling launch. Here’s what to expect from Apple in the upcoming month.

#### M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro

Following the debut of the base model 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M5 chip in October, Apple is poised to release higher-end versions featuring the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. These upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are expected to improve performance without significant design alterations, as a more substantial redesign is projected for later in the year.

#### New Budget MacBook

In addition to the MacBook Pro updates, Apple is rumored to be developing a new, budget-friendly MacBook powered by the A18 Pro chip, the same processor utilized in the iPhone 16 Pro. This would mark a significant first, as Apple has never employed an iPhone-class chip in a Mac previously. The new MacBook is expected to showcase a 12.9-inch display and be priced well below $1,000, with potential casing colors such as silver, blue, pink, and yellow.

#### Further Hardware Enhancements

While the MacBook and MacBook Pro updates are likely to launch in January, other hardware enhancements are also on the horizon. These include the M5 MacBook Air, a new iPad Air, and a new entry-level iPad, which are anticipated to be announced in March. Furthermore, a new Mac mini and Mac Studio are expected by mid-2026, along with the iPhone 17e, likely slated for a February launch. Long-anticipated updates for the AirTag and Apple TV are also rumored, though their release dates remain unclear.

### New Software

In conjunction with hardware launches, Apple is gearing up for software updates that are expected to be revealed this month.

#### iOS 26.3

iOS 26.3 has commenced beta testing and is expected to go public in January. While it represents a minor update, it encompasses significant modifications such as:

– A new interoperability framework for data transfer between iPhone and Android devices.
– EU compliance adjustments for notification forwarding and proximity pairing for third-party accessories.

#### Other Software Updates

In addition to iOS, Apple is also developing updates for its other platforms, including:

– macOS 26.3
– tvOS 26.3
– iPadOS 26.3
– watchOS 26.3
– visionOS 26.3

These updates primarily target bug fixes and performance enhancements rather than introducing new features.

### Conclusion

With a bustling month in store, Apple fans have a lot to anticipate in January. Whether it’s fresh hardware or software updates, the excitement around Apple’s upcoming offerings is tangible. What are you most eager to witness from Apple this month?