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The Elimination of Live Wallpapers on iPhone: Factors Influencing Apple’s Choice

When Apple initially launched live wallpapers years ago, the feature gained immense popularity among users. Its absence was felt on iPhones for a long time, and its implementation seemed like a necessary improvement. Live wallpapers animated static images through a long press. However, if you’ve attempted to set live wallpapers on more recent iPhones or iOS versions, you may have realized that the feature is absent. This is due to Apple’s elimination of live wallpapers from iPhones.

Though many users found the removal perplexing, it seems it was executed to enhance lock screen customization options. Given that the Apple Watch already employed the same long-press gesture for customizations that the iPhone used for live wallpapers, Apple decided to phase out the latter for a more seamless experience. So, while it might seem that Apple quietly took away a valuable feature, there is significantly more to the narrative, which is crucial to the overall user experience.

Apple emphasized lock screen customizations

Apple Launches macOS 26.5 Beta 1 for Evaluation

Apple is beginning to distribute the initial macOS 26.5 beta to developers, in conjunction with iOS 26.5 beta 1, iPadOS 26.5 beta 1, and updates for its various other operating systems. Here are the specifics.

### This is likely the final significant system update prior to WWDC26.

Less than a week after the launch of macOS 26.4, Apple is now distributing the first developer beta of macOS 26.5.

macOS 26.4 introduced numerous features that Apple had not previously disclosed, primarily the new Charge Limit feature. It also included eight new emoji, the initial consumer-facing warning about the discontinuation of Rosetta 2, and the reintroduction of the compact tab view in Safari.

This will probably be the last major macOS 26 update before WWDC26, where it is anticipated that Apple will unveil macOS 27. Last year, macOS 15.5 was released in May, while macOS 15.6 debuted in July, following WWDC25.

As is often true with first betas, it is currently unclear which, if any, changes or bug fixes Apple has planned. We are investigating the system and will update you with significant discoveries.

The release build for macOS 26.5 beta 1 is 25F5042g.

### How to install the new beta

Here’s how to install the macOS Tahoe 26.5 developer beta 1:

1. Backup your Mac
2. Open System Settings
3. Go to General ⇾ Software Update
4. Click the ‘i’ icon next to Beta Updates
5. From the dropdown menu in the upper-right, select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta
6. Hit ‘Done’

Did you notice any changes in today’s betas? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple Intelligence Currently in Deployment in China, Based on User Reports [Update: Service Withdrawn]

**Apple Intelligence Introduces Itself in China: A Long-Expected Unveiling**

Apple Intelligence, the tech behemoth’s suite of AI functionalities, made its entrance in the United States in October 2024. Following a prolonged wait of nearly 18 months, it seems that these sophisticated AI features are finally making their way to China. This event marks a noteworthy achievement, as China was the final significant market without access to Apple Intelligence.

### Regulatory Challenges and Local Collaborations

The postponement of Apple Intelligence’s launch in China can be linked to rigid stipulations set by the Chinese government. Apple was required to partner with local AI firms to enhance the essential features, which complicated the launch process. Despite the functionalities being prepared for months, Apple has been maneuvering through the intricate regulatory environment to gain permission for the launch.

### User Feedback Confirms Accessibility

Recent feedback from various users suggests that Apple Intelligence has become available to iPhone users in China. This information has been spreading across different social media platforms, indicating that the rollout may be extensive. Users have observed that the AI features could necessitate iOS 26.4 for activation, although Apple has not yet officially verified this information.

### A Potentially Unofficial Launch?

While the announcement of Apple Intelligence’s availability in China has sparked enthusiasm, there remains some ambiguity regarding the rollout. Notably, Mark Gurman, a prominent tech journalist, suggested that the launch might have happened by error and that the features were removed pending regulatory approval. This prompts questions about whether the rollout was intentional or simply meant as a testing phase.

### Upcoming Updates and Features

Currently, Apple has not issued any official statements concerning the advancement of Apple Intelligence into China. Users are advised to remain alert for updates from the company, which may offer more insights into the features available in the region. The excitement surrounding this launch underscores the increasing significance of AI technology in everyday devices and the rising consumer demand for such innovations.

### Conclusion

The introduction of Apple Intelligence in China signifies a major advancement in Apple’s global AI strategy. As users start to utilize these features, the tech community will be closely observing for any official updates from Apple regarding the launch and its potential repercussions for the Chinese market. For individuals in China, the emergence of Apple Intelligence could elevate their iPhone experience, delivering cutting-edge AI capabilities to their devices.

Stellan Skarsgård Joins Untitled Apple TV Thriller Series After Oscar Nomination

Swedish actor Stellan Skarsgård is poised to appear with Dakota Fanning in an upcoming unnamed international thriller series for Apple TV. This series, produced by Sony Pictures Television, has sparked considerable interest due to its star-studded cast and captivating concept.

Dakota Fanning, recognized for her diverse acting talents, will not only lead the series but also take on the role of executive producer alongside her sister, Elle Fanning. The series will be helmed by Kari Skogland, who has previously been involved in renowned projects like “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”

The plot centers on Fanning’s character, an undercover Treasury agent integrated within a multibillion-dollar international conglomerate. This conglomerate is portrayed as having widespread political and criminal ties. The narrative intensifies as she navigates her mission while developing emotions for her main target, who is the heir to the corrupt power structure she is probing.

Currently, there is no established release date for the series, and its title remains undisclosed. Nonetheless, given the high caliber of talent involved and the compelling storyline, it is eagerly awaited by audiences.

Apple TV continues to grow its content library, providing a subscription service that showcases a range of popular shows and films. The introduction of this thriller series is anticipated to further enhance its offerings, drawing in a larger viewership.