Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Fresh Arrivals on Apple TV+ for July
    Fresh Arrivals on Apple TV+ for July

    ### What’s New on Apple TV+ in July

    Apple TV+ continues to enhance its successful first semester of the year with an exciting assortment of new content in July. Two eagerly awaited returning series, alongside new premieres, are set to keep subscribers entertained.

    #### Foundation (Season 3)

    – **Release Date:** July 11
    – **Genre:** Sci-Fi Drama

    Adapted from Isaac Asimov’s renowned novels, *Foundation* chronicles a group of exiles on a grand mission to save humanity and reconstruct civilization as the Galactic Empire disintegrates. This season is expected to explore more deeply the intricacies of its characters and the expansive universe they inhabit.

    #### The Wild Ones

    – **Release Date:** July 11
    – **Genre:** Documentary

    Presented by former Royal Marines Commando Aldo Kane, *The Wild Ones* takes audiences on an adventurous expedition across six nations, featuring pioneering wildlife footage. The team utilizes cutting-edge camera technology to document rare species, such as the Malayan tiger and the Caucasian leopard, emphasizing the significance of conservation efforts.

    #### Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical

    – **Release Date:** July 18
    – **Genre:** Kids & Family

    This musical special honors the delights of summer camp through the perspectives of Charlie Brown and his companions. As they encounter the thrills and trials of camp life, Snoopy and Woodstock embark on a treasure hunt that leads to unanticipated escapades.

    #### Acapulco (Season 4)

    – **Release Date:** July 23
    – **Genre:** Comedy

    In the fourth season of *Acapulco*, Máximo toils to restore Las Colinas to its prior splendor while contending with competition from rival hotels. The series continues to meld humor with touching moments as it examines the nuances of the hospitality sector.

    #### Ongoing Episodes: Smoke, Stick, and The Buccaneers

    Although July presents fewer new premieres, several series that launched in June will keep releasing new episodes:

    – *Stick*: A golf comedy featuring Owen Wilson, airing new episodes until July 23.
    – *The Buccaneers*: A historical drama reminiscent of *Bridgerton*, continuing until August 6.
    – *Smoke*: A thrilling crime drama from the makers of *Black Bird*, with episodes airing until August 15.

    Apple TV+ continues to be accessible for $9.99 per month, providing a selection of popular shows and films, including *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, and *The Morning Show*. Subscribers can also look into options for free viewing.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Fitness+ Unveils F1-Inspired Workouts and New Time to Walk Episode
    Apple Fitness+ Unveils F1-Inspired Workouts and New Time to Walk Episode

    As Apple unveils its most significant film to date, [F1 The Movie](https://apple.co/4jFGPYe), it is simultaneously ramping up its promotional efforts throughout its ecosystem. The latest to participate in the campaign? Apple [Fitness+](https://fitness.apple.com/subscribe?itscg=10000&ct=fitness_a&at=1000l3cFK). Here’s what’s updated.

    ## F1 marketing is indeed… revving up

    This week, [Fitness+](https://fitness.apple.com/subscribe?itscg=10000&ct=fitness_a&at=1000l3cFK) introduced a collection of new workouts and a “Time to Walk” episode, all themed around the Apple Original Film featuring Brad Pitt ([Moneyball](https://apple.co/4ndU85b), [Inglourious Basterds](https://apple.co/4k8uPhY)). This is yet another instance of Apple leveraging its services portfolio as an expansion of its entertainment strategy, which also encompasses a [haptic trailer](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/11/apple-f1-movie-haptic-trailer/) and a [debated](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/24/apple-pushed-wallet-notifications-with-f1-offer-sparking-backlash/) Apple Wallet push notification.

    The new [Fitness+](https://fitness.apple.com/subscribe?itscg=10000&ct=fitness_a&at=1000l3cFK) features include:

    – **Time to Walk with Kerry Condon:** Actress Kerry Condon, who co-stars in the Apple Original Film “F1® The Movie,” has earned a BAFTA Award and received nominations for the Oscar, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award for her role in the film “The Banshees of Inisherin.” Kerry shares how a simple act of kindness had a significant effect and explains how establishing workplace boundaries enhanced her confidence.

    – **HIIT with Brian:** The focus on teamwork characterizes this workout inspired by the Apple Original Film “F1® The Movie.” The session begins with decreasing moves, starting with three and concluding with one. It includes two segments of three moves, repeated twice. The exercises consist of pop lunges, side shuffles, and tuck jumps, with challenges for core strength and reaction time between segments.

    – **Strength with Kyle:** Teamwork remains central to this full-body workout inspired by the Apple Original Film “F1® The Movie.” The routine involves a decreasing number of moves, starting with five and ending with one. Exercises feature lunges with bicep curls, squats with overhead presses, and lunges with chops, utilizing two medium dumbbells.

    – **Treadmill with Sherica:** This team-focused workout inspired by the Apple Original Film “F1® The Movie” comprises 10 high-intensity speed bursts lasting from 30 seconds to just over 65 seconds, without any hills.

    Similar to previous Time to Walk and [Fitness+](https://fitness.apple.com/subscribe?itscg=10000&ct=fitness_a&at=1000l3cFK) offerings, this content aims to be welcoming to everyone, whether seasoned gym-goers or newcomers. However, this collaboration taps into the F1 excitement, marking it as one of the more prominent [Fitness+](https://fitness.apple.com/subscribe?itscg=10000&ct=fitness_a&at=1000l3cFK) integrations Apple has executed thus far.

    This further indicates that Apple perceives [F1 The Movie](https://apple.co/4jFGPYe) as more than just a standalone release, presenting an intriguing experiment on the limits of its integrated blockbuster approach. Whether this converts into box office success remains to be seen.

    [F1 The Movie](https://apple.co/4jFGPYe) premieres internationally starting today, June 25, and in U.S. theaters and IMAX across the nation, on June 27.

    Apple TV+ is [offered for $9.99 per month](https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.4000?itscg=30200&itsct=tv%5C_box%5C_link&at=1000l3cvR) and features popular TV shows and films like

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Key Features Missing in iPadOS 26
    Key Features Missing in iPadOS 26

    Apple showcased iPadOS 26 during its WWDC 2025 keynote. Unlike in prior years, the company surpassed itself with the fresh features introduced in this software release. After all, utilizing the iPad as a computer alternative is set to be more straightforward than ever.

    Some of the new capabilities include:

    – **Enhanced windowing system:** Apple is replacing Split View and Slide Over with a novel windowing system. You are free to open as many windows as you like and manage them using a familiar menu bar and Mac-like controls.

    – **Background Tasks:** Apple finally permits tasks to operate in the background, such as exporting a video, downloading substantial files, and more. A simple yet crucial feature that finally allows users to leverage up to 16GB of RAM on the iPad.

    – **Preview app:** Apple developed a fresh app for iPad users to open, edit, and annotate PDFs and images effortlessly. Cupertino mentions that Preview was crafted with the Apple Pencil in mind, enabling users to sign documents and take notes quicker than before.

    Nevertheless, these aren’t the sole features iPadOS 26 provides that enhance its status as a substantial computer substitute. There’s also a turbocharged Files app and the option to add folders to the Dock. I still believe iPadOS 26 requires a few adjustments to become the sole computer I wish to use daily.

    ## iPadOS 26 needs to resemble the Mac a bit more

    Apple states that even though it has enhanced the multitasking capabilities on the iPad, it remains a touch-first experience. I fully concur with the distinctions between the iPad and the Mac. However, this doesn’t imply Apple can’t improve iPadOS 26 just a bit.

    Here are some modifications that could make iPadOS 26 truly excellent for iPad users:

    – **Multiple desktops:** Apple is not anticipated to significantly enlarge the display size of the iPad Pro (even though larger screens have been speculated). The optimal way to manage various open windows would be to provide different desktops. This would enable users to better organize their workflows.

    – **Always-visible dock:** As personal as it may feel, I believe keeping the dock visible at all times is the ideal approach. On macOS, you cannot overlay the dock with a window. I wish iPadOS 26 acted in the same manner.

    – **Files and photos on the Home Screen:** To further align the iPad with Mac functionality, allow users to save images and files on the Home Screen. Apple could enforce Stacks as mandatory to prevent documents from cluttering the experience. This would simplify dragging and dropping files into apps, Safari, and more.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on The Human Mind Interprets Preferred Perceptions Rather Than True Visual Input
    The Human Mind Interprets Preferred Perceptions Rather Than True Visual Input

    The human brain continues to astonish researchers. From its learning capabilities to the remarkable fact that our brains emit light, there remains much to uncover regarding the complexities of the human brain. One particularly astonishing aspect, however, is that the brain doesn’t seem to perceive exactly what you perceive. Instead, experts claim that the brain sees what it anticipates seeing.

    ## The brain decodes subsequent events

    As per researchers, the manner in which the brain decodes the information provided by our eyes is quite fascinating. Rather than waiting to witness precisely how a scenario unfolds, your brain proactively predicts what will occur. For example, if you observe a friend reaching for a pot, your brain interprets that their hand will extend toward the pot and grasp the handle.

    In most instances, it’s accurate. However, there can always be unexpected changes, which might cause the brain’s perception to not align with reality. This phenomenon is underpinned by what scientists refer to as the action observation network, or AON. This consists of a group of brain regions that activate whenever you observe someone else engaging with an object.

    Over the years, this configuration has been corroborated by scientists through analysis of data collected from various laboratory experiments. Nevertheless, those snippets, typically one- to two-second video clips, do not present the complete picture. That’s why a more recent study featured in *Cell Reports* is founded on research aimed at exploring further. Specifically, this new research sought to determine whether the flow of information alters when the viewer can already predict the subsequent step in the sequence.

    ## Evaluating the concept

    To examine this, and to investigate how the brain actually perceives, the researchers designed two distinct versions of regular scenes. In the natural scenario, the actions unfolded as anticipated. Conversely, in the second scene, they rearranged the clips and had participants view both while monitoring their brain activity. Some of the subjects had already been fitted with intracranial electrodes for medical observation, allowing for precise recording of electrical signals from deep within the cortex.

    The researchers discovered that the brain operated exactly as anticipated when the sequence of clips in the scene was logical. The data even indicated that when the brain could predict what was next, it actually utilized its visual areas less. Conversely, when the disordered cut was shown, the data revealed how changes in perception by the brain depended on its ability to effectively predict the next step.

    Given that the clips were shuffled and disorganized, the brain struggled to accurately ascertain the next phase in the process, resulting in increased activity in other brain regions. These findings also suggest that our motor memories might play a pivotal role in how our brain processes the information transmitted by our eyes. Essentially, our brains rely on memory to perceive.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on macOS Tahoe to Launch Three Fresh Apps for Mac Users: Find Out More Inside
    macOS Tahoe to Launch Three Fresh Apps for Mac Users: Find Out More Inside

    Apple’s forthcoming significant software update for the Mac is macOS Tahoe, also referred to as macOS 26. In addition to the fresh Liquid Glass design and substantial Spotlight enhancements, macOS Tahoe will introduce three new Apple applications to the Mac. Here’s what you can expect.

    ### Journal

    Apple’s Journal app made its debut on iPhone with iOS 17.2 in late 2023. It has remained exclusive to iOS since, but that will change this year. Journal is set to launch on the Mac in macOS Tahoe, as well as on the iPad in iPadOS 26.

    All your journal entries will automatically sync over iCloud, and Journal features a two-panel layout on the Mac that is optimized for larger displays. The app retains the existing feature set from iPhone and unveils new functionalities, including the option to create multiple distinct journals, view entries on a map according to their location, and more.

    ### Phone

    Continuity connections between the Mac and iPhone are expanding once more in macOS Tahoe. For years, the Mac has allowed users to answer calls from their iPhone. Last year, iPhone Mirroring provided complete access to the Phone app through your Mac. In macOS Tahoe, Apple is introducing a dedicated Phone app directly on the Mac.

    The Phone app on Mac includes familiar features from the iPhone, such as Recents, Favorites, and Voicemails, along with the latest enhancements like Call Screening and Hold Assist. Call Screening automatically responds to calls from unknown numbers, while Hold Assist permits users to keep their position in line while waiting for a live representative.

    ### Apple Games

    Apple boasts a robust ecosystem of cross-platform media applications, including Apple Music, Apple TV, and Apple Podcasts. This year, there’s an exciting new addition: Apple Games. The new Games app will launch concurrently across macOS Tahoe, iOS 26, and iPadOS 26 as a comprehensive hub for all gaming activities.

    Features encompass discovering new games, launching installed titles on your Mac, and connecting with friends via leaderboards and challenges.

    ### New macOS Tahoe apps: wrap-up

    Just a few years back, the Mac would often lag behind Apple’s other platforms in acquiring new cross-platform applications. Thankfully, there has been a shift in recent years, and macOS Tahoe’s three new apps serve as the latest proof of this progression.

    Which of macOS Tahoe’s new applications are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on The Prospects of Aging iPhones in 2025: Rising Sales Patterns as per CIRP
    The Prospects of Aging iPhones in 2025: Rising Sales Patterns as per CIRP

    ### The Pre-Owned iPhone Market is More Robust Than Ever

    A recent analysis by CIRP shows that almost half of iPhone purchasers (49%) over the last year have either traded in or sold their prior device. This represents a notable rise from 43% in 2020, showcasing a developing trend among users to part with their old phones. The surge in trade-ins can be linked to improved deals from carriers seeking to retain current customers and lure new ones, in addition to the evolution of third-party resale platforms that offer users greater opportunities to extract value from their past devices.

    Conversely, 37% of users chose to keep their old phones, either as spare devices or to pass them along to friends or family. This number has diminished from 44% in 2020, indicating a transformation in consumer behavior towards appreciating older devices as tradable items instead of simply backups. Moreover, 14% of old phones were reported as lost, stolen, or damaged, which has remained relatively stable compared to 13% in 2020.

    The results underscore a wider market trend where consumers are increasingly acknowledging the worth of their older devices, particularly in areas where iPhones have traditionally been costly in comparison to local incomes. As iPhone prices keep climbing in the U.S., more buyers are starting to perceive their older devices as valuable, tradable items rather than objects to be discarded or put away.

    In summary, the pre-owned iPhone market is flourishing, with a significant uptick in trade-ins and sales, reflecting a change in consumer perceptions towards older devices.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Ongoing Promotions for 512GB M4 Mac Mini, Desert Titanium iPhone 16 Pro, Black Apple Watch Ultra 2, and Additional Items
    Ongoing Promotions for 512GB M4 Mac Mini, Desert Titanium iPhone 16 Pro, Black Apple Watch Ultra 2, and Additional Items

    ### Today’s Apple Offers: Price Cuts on M4 Mac Mini, iPhone 16 Pro, and More

    Apple fans have a reason to rejoice as today’s offers showcase considerable price cuts on sought-after items, including the newest M4 Mac mini, iPhone 16 Pro, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Here’s an in-depth overview of the top deals accessible at the moment.

    #### M4 Mac Mini: $100 Price Reduction

    The **512GB M4 Mac mini** is presently priced at **$699**, showcasing a **$100 reduction** from its usual price of $799. This variant provides double the internal storage compared to the basic model, making it a wiser option for users needing extra space for apps and files. Although inventory is said to be limited, this bargain represents a fantastic chance for those wanting to enhance their setup with a more robust machine without overspending.

    #### Desert Titanium iPhone 16 Pro: New Lowest Price

    In another thrilling offer, the **256GB Desert Titanium iPhone 16 Pro** has reached a new lowest price of **$912.57** via Amazon’s Renewed Premium program. This unlocked smartphone, originally listed at $1,099, is now offered at a **$127 discount**. The renewed quality guarantees that the device has been thoroughly checked and tested to meet high benchmarks, making it a trustworthy choice for buyers aiming to save on a high-end gadget.

    #### Apple Watch Ultra 2: $70 Price Cut

    The **satin black Apple Watch Ultra 2** is now available for **$729.99**, reduced from its standard price of $799, representing a **$70 cut**. This offer includes the coordinating Black Ocean Band and Trail Loop, providing a chic and functional accessory for Apple users. Despite lower prices being available briefly at other stores, this current deal stands out as a strong choice for anyone in the market for a new smartwatch.

    #### M3 MacBook Air: $450 Discount

    For those in the market for a laptop, the **24GB M3 MacBook Air** is on sale for **$1,249**, equating to **$450 off** its retail price of $1,699. While this model isn’t the latest M4 variant, it offers noteworthy savings and serves as an excellent option for users who do not necessitate the newest technology. The M3 MacBook Air has been well-reviewed for its performance and affordability, making it a valuable consideration for budget-aware buyers.

    ### Conclusion

    These offers underscore the persistent trend of substantial markdowns on Apple products, creating a prime opportunity for consumers to invest in new tech. Whether you’re in search of a powerful desktop like the M4 Mac mini, a high-end smartphone such as the iPhone 16 Pro, or a fashionable smartwatch, there are numerous options available at lowered prices. Make sure to act swiftly, as inventory levels might fluctuate and these offers may not be around for long.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on ChatGPT Enhances Data Source Integration with Innovative Premium Functions
    ChatGPT Enhances Data Source Integration with Innovative Premium Functions

    A few weeks back, OpenAI launched a new capability for ChatGPT named Connectors. It serves as a method for the chatbot to engage with various third-party applications and data sources to gather additional information while responding to user inquiries.

    This capability is thrilling because it enables ChatGPT to interact with more third-party applications that hold some of our personal information. Picture asking ChatGPT to look through your Gmail for any content linked to a family trip you are organizing. That’s the type of functionality Gemini provides, given that Google is the owner of Gmail.

    Other chatbots will require comparable access to provide more personalized experiences. That’s essentially the main objective of allowing ChatGPT to extract data from other platforms. OpenAI aims to offer users a top-tier assistant experience with ChatGPT where the AI is well-informed about you. It’s exactly what I anticipate from the ChatGPT io hardware that OpenAI may unveil late next year.

    To achieve this, we need Connectors within ChatGPT. The positive aspect is that OpenAI is broadening access. The downside is that it will come at a higher price. The most recent expansion does not encompass ChatGPT Free or ChatGPT Plus users.

    OpenAI announced on X that Connectors for Google Drive, Dropbox, SharePoint, and Box are now accessible in ChatGPT outside of Deep Research. That’s advantageous if you wish for the AI to utilize cloud data you’ve saved with those services while replying to your inquiries.

    As OpenAI describes it, the feature is “ideal for incorporating your unique context for daily work.”

    The tweet also mentions that the aforementioned Connectors are open to ChatGPT Pro users ($200/month) globally, not including the EEA, Switzerland, and the UK. I’m a ChatGPT Plus user ($20/month) based in Europe, so I wouldn’t have access to these Connectors even if they were available here.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Nomad Introduces New Leather Mag Wallet with Find My Integration
    Nomad Introduces New Leather Mag Wallet with Find My Integration

    **Nomad Unveils New Leather Mag Wallet for iPhone: A Chic and Practical Accessory**

    Nomad has launched its latest offering, the Leather Mag Wallet for iPhone, aimed at improving your device’s utility while delivering an elegant and stylish look. This wallet incorporates MagSafe technology, ensuring it securely attaches to the back of any MagSafe-compatible iPhone or case.

    **Key Features and Specifications**

    The Leather Mag Wallet is made from premium Horween leather, celebrated for its resilience and luxurious texture. It features a polycarbonate frame, which helps it keep its shape and provides sufficient protection for your cards. The wallet accommodates up to four credit cards, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer to travel light.

    **Dimensions:**
    – Size: 96mm x 66mm x 9mm
    – Weight: 47 grams

    One of the standout attributes of the Leather Mag Wallet is its compatibility with Apple’s Find My network. This is enabled by an integrated tracking card that allows users to locate their wallet in real-time via the Find My app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The tracking card boasts an impressive battery life of five months on a full charge and can be effortlessly recharged using any Qi or MagSafe charger. Additionally, users will receive alerts if they happen to leave their wallet behind, providing an extra layer of protection.

    **User Experience**

    Initial feedback underscores the Leather Mag Wallet’s exceptional performance in comparison to Apple’s own MagSafe Wallet. Users value the Find My integration, which greatly boosts the wallet’s functionality and justifies its price tag of $79. The fusion of style, practicality, and advanced tracking features makes it an appealing accessory for iPhone users.

    **Availability**

    The Nomad Leather Mag Wallet is now available for purchase on Nomad’s official website for $79. With its combination of luxurious materials and state-of-the-art technology, it represents a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to simplify their daily carry.

    In summary, the Nomad Leather Mag Wallet for iPhone is a thoughtfully designed accessory that not only looks appealing but also provides practical features that enhance the user experience. Whether you’re a regular traveler or simply in search of a chic way to carry your essentials, this wallet is certainly worth considering.

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