Author: Richard

iPadOS 26.3 Beta 1 Launched: Main Features and Anticipations

### iPadOS 26.3 Beta 1 Released for Developers

Following last week’s debut of iPadOS 26.2, Apple has launched the initial beta of iPadOS 26.3 for developers. This update is noteworthy as it is expected to be the final software release from Apple prior to the holiday season.

#### Release Timing

Apple has developed a trend of issuing the first x.3 beta update in mid-December, just ahead of their holiday break. Traditionally, these first x.3 versions feature fewer new functionalities compared to other beta updates throughout the year. This approach is mainly to prevent significant bugs that could hinder user experience during the holiday period and disrupt the engineers’ time off.

#### Anticipations for iPadOS 26.3

In light of the timing and past patterns, the iPadOS 26.3 beta 1 is anticipated to have minimal new features. Apple often holds off more comprehensive updates and revisions for later beta releases. The priority for this initial beta is expected to be on stability and performance rather than adding major new functions.

On the iOS front, users should look forward to enhancements in switching from iPhone to Android, although information on additional features for iPadOS 26.3 is still vague.

#### Developer Feedback

As developers commence testing iPadOS 26.3 beta 1, feedback from users will be vital. Those who have installed the beta are encouraged to report their experiences regarding any new features or modifications they observe.

### Closing Thoughts

The launch of iPadOS 26.3 beta 1 represents a significant milestone in Apple’s software development timeline, offering developers an early glimpse at what to anticipate in the forthcoming update. With the holiday season looming, users can look forward to a stable experience while Apple gears up for further improvements in the upcoming year.

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iOS 26.3 Beta Showcases Apple’s Strategy for EU-Required Notification Forwarding

The initial iOS 26.3 beta unveils a redesigned user interface focused on adhering to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which requires that Apple permits third-party devices to access user notifications. This article explains the operation of the new Notification Forwarding function.

### One Accessory at a Time

A major dispute between Apple and the EU centers on the obligation for third-party devices to receive notifications from the iPhone. Apple has voiced apprehensions that this could lead to privacy and security vulnerabilities, as it would provide external companies with access to sensitive information such as messages, emails, and medical notifications.

Notwithstanding these worries, Apple has been gearing up to fulfill the requirement since the previous iOS 26.1 update. With the launch of iOS 26.3, a new **Notification Forwarding** feature has been integrated under **Settings > Notifications**, allowing users to choose a third-party device to receive notifications from their iPhone.

This capability is based on a new public framework called `AccessoryNotifications`, which is presently not documented on Apple’s Developer portal, as the iOS 26.3 SDK has yet to be launched. Upon its release, Notification Forwarding will enable users to control which apps are permitted to send notifications to their third-party devices, akin to the existing per-app notification configurations on the Apple Watch.

However, a crucial limitation of this feature is that Notification Forwarding can only function for one accessory at a time. As noted by Apple, “notifications will not appear on Apple Watch while Notification Forwarding is activated.” During the setup phase, users will be alerted that notifications will display the app name and all content within the notification, even though Apple does not categorize this feature as a privacy or security risk.

The rollout of Notification Forwarding signifies a notable transition in the interaction between Apple devices and third-party accessories, illustrating the ongoing regulatory demands from the EU.

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Apple Unveils More than 20 New Enhancements and Features in Recent iPhone Update

you can get it now. Although not everyone is keen to upgrade their devices immediately when a new iOS version is released due to possible bugs and various concerns, these updates are crucial for keeping your iPhone safeguarded against hackers.

This newest version is no exception, and Apple provided users with over 20 reasons to upgrade their devices at once, as bugs from the earlier version could render iPhone owners vulnerable in certain situations. While Apple claims the bugs were resolved before being exploited by malicious entities, it is now essential to install iOS 26.2 to implement these updates as soon as you’re able to.

For instance, one of the issues rectified in iOS 26 was linked to the App Store, where a permission flaw would allow an app to access sensitive payment tokens. This issue could impact any iPhone or iPad that is compatible with iOS 26, and it was identified by engineers at ByteDance.

iOS bugs may compromise sensitive data

How to Align Your YouTube Music Playlist with a Friend

Express your musical preferences and rejuvenate your playlist instantly.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Nothing surpasses enjoying a beloved playlist accompanied by another person. Or at the very least, sharing it with others. On the flip side, discovering what your friends are listening to and enjoying can be enriching. This may lead you to uncover new sounds, potentially revealing that your musical preferences align closely.

One of the newer features introduced with YouTube Music, in honor of the platform’s 10th anniversary, is called Taste Match. This feature provides the ability to share a playlist with a friend, or even a group of friends, enabling them to add tracks too. The playlist updates automatically with contributions from all participants, offering a delightful surprise during your next drive or commute, as you jam to fresh beats your friends are enjoying. Setting up the collaborative playlist is straightforward and takes just a few steps.

Steps to taste match your YouTube Music playlist with a friend

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Apple TV’s Android Application Unveils Google Cast Compatibility After Netflix’s Exit

You can now effortlessly broadcast content from the Apple TV Android app on your mobile device to televisions via Chromecast.

(Image credit: Android Central)

Essential Information

  • The Apple TV app on Android now provides Google Cast support, enabling users to easily stream films and series to larger screens.
  • The newly added Cast icon within the Apple TV app allows users to select Chromecast or Google TV devices for immediate playback.
  • This action by Apple stands in contrast to Netflix’s decision to remove Cast compatibility, as Apple permits casting on all suitable devices.

Notice

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Global Consumer Electronics Expo

What is CES and when is it?

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is a yearly assembly of the most prominent firms in the tech industry. It is recognized as the largest gathering that features companies across various sectors unveiling new products, concept items, and much more. The event is organized by the Consumer Technology Association. It’s where businesses display their newest gadgets, software, and all the remarkable innovations in between. Essentially, anything that helps you stay connected to your surroundings can be found here.

The event takes place every year during the initial week of January in Las Vegas. This year, it will occur from January 6 to 8.

Will Android Central be present — and what can we anticipate at CES 2026?

Indeed, Android Central will be there this year! Senior Editor Harish Jonnalagadda will attend CES and will explore all the exciting technology that companies plan to unveil.

We anticipate numerous announcements including several phone launches and possibly an in-depth look at the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold.

Here are a few of the organizations we expect to be in attendance at the event.

  • Major Confirmed Attendees
    • Samsung
    • Qualcomm
    • Arm
  • Very Likely Attendees
    • Meta
    • Xiaomi
    • Motorola
    • MediaTek
    • TCL
  • Possibly Attending (but not yet publicly confirmed)
    • Honor
    • Nothing
    • OPPO
    • ZTE / RedMagic
    • Huawei
    • TECNO
  • Unconfirmed / No public information available yet

Keep an eye on this page, and visit our home page for all the updates coming out of CES 2026.

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Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: Information on S Pen Support

An S Pen could be an excellent tool to take advantage of the Galaxy Z TriFold’s large inner display, but is it functional?

(Image credit: Samsung)

Is there S Pen compatibility with the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold?

official release date.

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GM Introduces Native Apple Music Application with Spatial Audio Capability

### GM’s Shift from CarPlay: The Arrival of Apple Music in Cadillac and Chevrolet Models

As General Motors (GM) nears the three-year milestone since initiating its shift away from Apple CarPlay, the automotive powerhouse has confirmed intentions to gradually remove the platform from more vehicles. This initiative, which first began with electric vehicles (EVs), has faced criticism from numerous consumers. Nevertheless, GM recently unveiled an encouraging update for its clientele: the launch of a new native Apple Music app for select Cadillac and Chevrolet models.

#### New Apple Music App Introduction

Starting Monday, the Apple Music app will be incorporated into the infotainment systems of selected 2025 and newer Cadillac and Chevrolet vehicles. While specifics about the models remain forthcoming, GM assures that the app will be integrated effortlessly, enriching the in-car entertainment experience for both drivers and passengers.

For Cadillac owners, the integration extends beyond basic functionality. The app will feature Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, developing an immersive three-dimensional sound landscape customized to the vehicle’s acoustics. This attribute intends to enhance the listening experience, making it akin to premium audio systems.

#### Standard Audio Streaming with OnStar Basics

Alongside the Apple Music app, GM is establishing audio streaming as a standard capability within its OnStar Basics service for all 2025 and newer vehicles. This indicates that customers will have the ability to stream popular services like Spotify and Apple Music at no additional cost for eight years post vehicle purchase. This initiative underscores GM’s dedication to increasing the value of its vehicles and aligning with consumer anticipations for in-car technology.

#### Industry Comparison and Consumer Responses

While the debut of the Apple Music app is a positive advancement, it may be viewed as a stopgap measure regarding GM’s overall exit from CarPlay. Analysts suggest that the transition could have been more fluid had GM’s infotainment system featured Apple Music support from the beginning.

In contrast, rivals such as Tesla have already integrated native apps for Apple Music and Apple Podcasts into their vehicles, and rumors indicate that Tesla may soon introduce CarPlay support as well. Rivian, another manufacturer that has opted out of CarPlay, has also rolled out a native Apple Music app complete with support for Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.

#### Conclusion

The introduction of the Apple Music app signifies an important advancement for GM as it strives to enhance its infotainment offerings amidst the ongoing transition away from CarPlay. While it may not completely resolve the concerns of customers yearning for the ease of CarPlay, the integration of widely used streaming services and advanced audio functionalities exemplifies GM’s commitment to refining the driving experience. The Apple Music app will be automatically provided to eligible vehicles through over-the-air software updates, with aspirations for broader availability across other GM brands in the future.

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Threads Improves Communities Functionality with Badges, Extra Interest Subjects, and Additional Features

**Meta Enhances Threads Communities: An In-Depth Look at the New Features**

In October 2025, Meta’s Threads platform launched a substantial update, introducing more than 100 communities in response to user trends where in-app groups were often labeled as “Books Threads,” “NBA Threads,” and similar names. This month, Meta has further broadened the communities feature to cover upwards of 200 interests, enriching the user experience with added functionalities.

### Grasping Threads Communities

The idea of communities on Threads combines two vital elements: topic tags and personalized feeds. This synergy enables users to find communities effortlessly using the Search tool or their timeline, with communities marked by blue topic tags. The initial rollout included popular categories such as AI Threads, F1 Threads, Kpop Threads, Design Threads, and TV Threads. The latest expansion adds even more specialized groups, addressing niche interests.

For instance, basketball fans can now participate in team-oriented communities such as Lakers Threads, Knicks Threads, or Spurs Threads, creating a more customized experience for supporters.

### Innovative Features in Beta Testing

In addition to broadening community topics, Threads is actively experimenting with two groundbreaking features designed to boost user engagement within these groups:

1. **Community Champion Badges**: This feature recognizes users who are notably active and influential within their communities. These “community champions” help foster vibrant discussions and motivate participation, distinguishing themselves with a unique badge.

2. **Community Flair**: This functionality allows users to express their distinct interests within a community. For example, participants in the “Book Threads” community can specify their favorite genres, offering a quick reference for others. Community champions will have the power to set flair options, enabling members to choose tags that will be displayed on all their contributions within that community.

### Final Thoughts

Meta’s growth of Threads communities signifies a crucial advancement in shaping a more immersive and customized social media environment. By launching over 200 interest-based groups and introducing innovative features like community champion badges and flair, Threads seeks to deepen connections among users with common interests. As these features evolve, they promise to improve the way users interact and share on the platform.

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