Author: Richard

Apple Music and TikTok are joining forces to introduce two thrilling new features for the widely-used short-form video platform. The initial feature, now in beta testing, enables users to listen to a complete song directly within the TikTok app via Apple Music. This integration utilizes Apple’s MusicKit framework, allowing developers to effortlessly embed Apple Music into their applications.

The “Play Full Song” feature is designed to improve music discovery for TikTok users, allowing them to explore new tracks without exiting the app. However, an active Apple Music subscription is necessary to access this feature. Importantly, the music is obtained from Apple Music, with playback clearly identified as “From Apple Music,” ensuring that Apple Music maintains control over royalties and licensing for the tracks played.

Alongside the full song playback feature, TikTok and Apple are also experimenting with a new Listening Party feature. This creative option will allow fans to experience music collectively in a shared community setting, reminiscent of the now-defunct Turntable.fm service, which let users collaboratively stream music.

Both features are currently undergoing beta testing and are not yet accessible to all users. This collaboration is not unprecedented; in 2023, TikTok rolled out a feature that enabled users to swiftly save songs discovered within the app to their Apple Music library. In 2024, Apple Music introduced functionality that allowed users to share songs from the Music app directly to TikTok.

For those looking to try Apple Music, the platform is presently offering a complimentary three-month trial, available until February 24.

Apple is purportedly set to unveil five new Home products this year, which includes a video doorbell integrated with Face ID and smart lock features. Here’s why this new offering could be successful.

### Amazon’s Privacy Backlash with Ring Presents Unique Opportunity for Apple

Last week during the Super Bowl, Amazon aired a commercial that took many on an unexpected emotional experience. The advertisement for its new ‘Search Party’ feature for Ring doorbells demonstrated how Ring could assist in locating lost dogs through its network of connected video doorbells. Who wouldn’t want to help find lost pets? However, a message that initially seemed heartwarming quickly took a dystopian turn when reflecting on the privacy concerns involved.

The negative response to the advertisement has resulted in changes to policies at Ring. It has also, unintentionally, created a prime situation for Apple’s own video doorbell accessory to debut.

### Apple Home’s Video Doorbell Will Feature Privacy Advantage, Making Now the Ideal Time for its Launch

Speculation suggests that Apple may introduce a video doorbell product under the Apple Home branding this year. In late 2024, Bloomberg initially reported on the development of this new product:

> “There’s also another home device in the works that hasn’t been reported before: a smart doorbell with advanced facial recognition that wirelessly connects to a deadbolt lock. The idea is that the doorbell could automatically unlock the door for a home’s residents by scanning their face — just like Face ID lets them into their iPhone.”

That report points out how Apple has a distinct competitive edge concerning Home accessories that utilize cameras:

> “Apple believes it has an edge in this area because of its long-standing commitment to privacy. The thinking is that consumers will trust it more than competitors with in-home security footage. The service could also assist Apple in selling iCloud subscriptions, where customers would store the video.”

Privacy is a ‘feature’ that tends to fluctuate in relevance among consumers. At times, it may feel to the general public more like a luxury rather than a key differentiator. It’s common for privacy to be sacrificed in favor of convenience or even lower-priced products. Nonetheless, incidents like this Ring backlash open doors for Apple to emphasize the significance of its own privacy policies.

And who knows, if the Apple Home doorbell is released soon, it may help the company attract a large influx of Ring switchers. Are you considering purchasing an Apple Home video doorbell? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Best Apple Home Accessories

**macOS 26.4 Beta: Anticipations for Apple’s Newest Update**

Just a few days post the launch of macOS 26.3, Apple has commenced the distribution of the initial beta version of macOS 26.4 for developers. This forthcoming update is expected to introduce numerous improvements and functionalities, especially concerning artificial intelligence and user interface.

### Possibly Some New Siri Features

Whereas macOS 26.3 was a relatively minor update, there are rumors that macOS 26.4 will feature the preliminary outcomes of Apple’s partnership with Google, aimed at embedding Gemini as the core for a revamped, AI-enhanced Siri. This collaboration is predicted to significantly bolster Siri’s capabilities, making it more intuitive and quicker to respond to user commands.

Nonetheless, a recent article from Bloomberg suggested that Apple plans to stagger the introduction of these Gemini-empowered Siri features across subsequent versions, rather than rolling them all out in this upcoming update. Thus, while users might not experience the complete range of the new Siri functionalities in macOS 26.4, some improvements may still be on the horizon.

### New Emoji and Apple Intelligence Features

Alongside potential Siri upgrades, macOS 26.4 is set to unveil new emoji, in alignment with updates anticipated in iOS 26.4. Additionally, the update could also introduce new Apple Intelligence features not directly tied to Siri. One possibility involves deeper integration of Anthropic’s MCP (Multi-Modal Communication Protocol), which was originally launched in macOS 26.1.

MCP serves as an open protocol promoting interaction between AI tools and various applications and platforms. This integration is part of Apple’s wider strategy to improve its development ecosystem, as evidenced by Xcode 26.3, which incorporated new agentic functionalities. Future iterations of macOS may build on this support, equipping developers with more powerful tools for creating AI-enhanced applications.

### Conclusion

As the beta version of macOS 26.4 is examined, both developers and users are urged to share their insights and experiences. While the update may not present all the expected features right away, it signifies a meaningful advancement in Apple’s continuous pursuit of incorporating sophisticated AI capabilities into its operating systems. Stay alert for further updates as we dive deeper into the new beta and reveal any significant changes.

**Presidents Day 2026: Significant Price Cuts on Apple Items**

The Presidents Day promotions have officially kicked off, offering a myriad of price reductions on Apple items. This year, consumers can discover considerable savings on an array of devices, such as the newest iPhones, MacBooks, Apple Watches, and AirPods. Here’s a thorough overview of some of the top offers currently available.

### Apple Watch Price Cuts

Apple Watch Series 11 models are presently up for grabs at **$100 off**, beginning at **$299**. This presents a fantastic chance for anyone seeking to enhance their smartwatch. Moreover, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has seen a price reduction of **$250**, while the Ultra 3 boasts discounts of up to **$150**. These prices are among the lowest recorded since their launch, making it a prime opportunity for interested buyers.

### iPhone 16 Pro/Max Offers

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are also highlighted in the Presidents Day promotions, with discounts soaring up to **$630 off** original pricing. These deals fall under the Amazon Renewed Premium program, guaranteeing high-quality devices with a one-year warranty. A variety of colors and specifications are on hand, catering to every taste.

### AirPods Price Reductions

AirPods are included in the sale, with the AirPods Max marked down by **$150**, reducing the cost to **$449**. The newest USB-C AirPods Pro 3 are also available at lower prices, making this an ideal time to acquire top-notch audio gear.

### Mac Mini and MacBook Pro Discounts

The most budget-friendly 24GB Mac mini is currently **$100 off**, with a price of **$699**. This configuration is not being offered at major retailers like Amazon, making it a distinctive deal. For those interested in MacBook Pros, there are savings of up to **$300** on various models, including the most recent M5 versions. The 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro with 24GB of RAM and 512GB of storage is now priced at **$1,549**, down from **$1,799**.

### iPad Mini Price Cuts

The latest iPad mini is also experiencing a price reduction of **$100**, with deals starting at **$399**. All configurations and colors are included in this discount, making it a compelling choice for tablet enthusiasts.

### Conclusion

With the Presidents Day promotions in full effect, now is a perfect opportunity to capitalize on the substantial discounts on Apple items. Whether you’re in the market for a new iPhone, MacBook, Apple Watch, or AirPods, there are numerous offers to browse. Be sure to act swiftly, as these promotions are only available for a limited duration.

# Apple Unveils iPadOS 26.4 Beta 1 for Developers

Apple has officially introduced iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 for developers, shortly after launching iPadOS 26.3 to all users just a week ago. This fresh beta signals the start of the upcoming series of updates, with a public beta anticipated to arrive soon.

## Anticipations for iPadOS 26.4

Although the last update was rather minimal in terms of new features, excitement is growing for the improvements that iPadOS 26.4 might offer. One of the most talked-about potential enhancements has been a revamped Siri. However, insights from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg indicate that some of these Siri upgrades could be postponed until iOS 26.5 or even iOS 27. Still, there is a chance that a few new Siri functionalities might make their debut in this beta.

Beyond Siri enhancements, users are optimistic about the addition of nine new emoji that received approval last year. There are also hopes for improvements connected to RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging, which have been anticipated for quite some time.

As is the norm with beta releases, the capabilities within iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 are likely to be enhanced in future beta versions. Both developers and users are encouraged to delve into the new software and report any findings.

## Conclusion

The launch of iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 demonstrates Apple’s dedication to the ongoing enhancement of its software. As developers start testing the new features, the community looks forward to additional updates and enhancements that will ultimately serve all users.

# Apple Upgrades Podcasts App with Enhanced Video Features in iOS 26.4

With the release of the iOS 26.4 update, Apple is significantly improving its Podcasts app by adding enhanced video podcast features designed to elevate the experience for creators and listeners alike. This enhancement enables users to easily toggle between viewing a video podcast and listening to its audio version, signifying a trend towards greater video integration in the podcasting domain.

## A Streamlined Experience for Users

Apple’s move aims to bolster its standing in the intensely competitive podcasting field, where it competes with platforms such as Spotify, YouTube, and Netflix. The growing interest in video podcasts has led Apple to upgrade its services, building upon its existing support for video content.

The technological improvement utilizes Apple’s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology, which facilitates video playback while maintaining audio quality. HLS automatically adjusts video quality according to network conditions, ensuring a consistent viewing and listening experience. Furthermore, users will be able to download video podcasts for offline use, enhancing convenience.

## Empowering Creators

The updated video podcast features provide numerous benefits for content creators. Apple has highlighted how this enhancement allows creators to share their content via participating hosting services and ad networks while keeping full control over their content and monetization. Key partners at the launch include Acast, Amazon’s ART19, iHeartMedia’s Triton Digital, and SiriusXM, with intentions for more providers to come on board.

One of the notable aspects of this update is the inclusion of dynamically inserted video ads within Apple’s Podcasts app. For the first time, creators can seamlessly incorporate video advertisements, including host-read segments, into their podcasts. This opens up opportunities in the broader video advertising market while enabling creators to retain full creative control. The integration of video ads is crafted to be unobtrusive, ensuring it does not disrupt current follower engagement or downloads.

## Monetization and Distribution

While Apple does not charge fees to hosting providers or creators for podcast distribution via its Podcasts app, it will implement a fee for ad networks for the placement of dynamic ads in HLS video podcast episodes. This approach allows Apple to generate revenue from the new features while ensuring the distribution process remains accessible for creators.

Podcast hosting services and creators interested in activating HLS video on Apple Podcasts can find further details and resources on Apple’s dedicated podcaster site.

## Availability

The enhanced video podcast experience will be accessible on various Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and the web, allowing users to enjoy video podcasts anytime, anywhere.

The iOS 26.4 update is presently available as a developer beta, with additional information regarding the modifications to Apple Podcasts available through Apple’s newsroom.

In conclusion, Apple’s upgrades to its Podcasts app in iOS 26.4 signify a substantial advancement in the podcasting industry, offering users a more seamless experience while providing creators with new monetization options.

# New Fullscreen Interface Launches in Apple Music with iOS 26.4, Alongside Concert Details

Apple has rolled out iOS 26.4 beta 1, bringing various improvements to Apple Music, including a fresh fullscreen interface for albums and playlists, in addition to upgraded concert discovery features.

## Fullscreen Interface for Albums and Playlists

A standout modification in the revamped Music app is the introduction of the fullscreen interface for albums and playlists. When users open an album or playlist, the track listing now displays a background color that harmonizes with the artwork. This design element enriches the visual experience, as the background color may not be a perfect match but instead a shade that complements the album or playlist artwork.

## Concert Discovery Within the Application

Alongside the design updates, Apple Music now facilitates concert discovery directly within the application. The feature, termed “Concerts Near You,” allows users to find performances in their vicinity and view tour dates for their preferred artists, simplifying the process of staying connected with live music events.

## Updated Profile Screen

Additionally, there is a revamped Profile screen within the Music app, also mirrored in other system applications such as Podcasts and TV. This new profile layout offers shortcuts related to the user’s Apple Account, including options to add funds or redeem an Apple gift card or app code.

## Subscription Details

Apple Music is offered at $10.99 monthly for individuals, or as part of the Apple One bundle, which includes extra services.

With these enhancements, Apple Music seeks to improve user experience and interaction, making it more convenient for users to enjoy their favorite music and discover new concerts.