Author: Richard

Apple TV is poised to start 2026 with an exhilarating collection of returning shows in January. The platform will showcase a diverse array of genres, including espionage thrillers, comedies, and dramas. Here’s an in-depth preview of what Apple TV has in store for this month.

### Tehran (Season 3)
– **Release Date:** January 9
– **Genre:** Espionage Thriller

“Tehran” chronicles the journey of Tamar (Niv Sultan), a Mossad hacker-agent who embeds herself in Tehran using a false identity. After going off the grid at the conclusion of season two, Tamar must reinvent her persona and win back the Mossad’s favor to stay alive. This season will feature the return of familiar characters like Shaun Toub and Shila Ommi, alongside newcomers such as Hugh Laurie and Sasson Gabai.

[Watch Tehran’s first two seasons here](https://tv.apple.com/show/tehran/umc.cmc.337cdk1ou0bmn6frmzxwm7xqd?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.337cdk1ou0bmn6frmzxwm7xqd&at=1000l3cvR).

### Hijack (Season 2)
– **Release Date:** January 14
– **Genre:** Thriller

The second season of “Hijack” focuses on a hostage crisis on a Berlin underground train. Sam Nelson (Idris Elba) finds himself in the middle of the turmoil, where each choice could spell catastrophe.

[Watch Hijack’s first season here](https://tv.apple.com/show/hijack/umc.cmc.1dg08zn0g3zx52hs8npoj5qe3?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.1dg08zn0g3zx52hs8npoj5qe3&at=1000l3cvR).

### Drops of God (Season 2)
– **Release Date:** January 21
– **Genre:** Drama

In the second season of “Drops of God,” siblings Camille and Issei embark on a journey to uncover the secret behind the world’s finest wine, a mystery their father could never unravel. Their adventure will challenge their relationship and force them to face hidden rivalries and secrets.

[Watch Drops of God’s first season here](https://tv.apple.com/show/drops-of-god/umc.cmc.497ttx33nudgzywis3i2bnvuk?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.497ttx33nudgzywis3i2bnvuk&at=1000l3cvR).

### Shrinking (Season 3)
– **Release Date:** January 28
– **Genre:** Comedy

“Shrinking” depicts a grieving therapist who starts to defy the norm by being brutally honest with his clients. This season promises to introduce major changes in his life and the lives of those around him.

[Watch Shrinking’s first two seasons here](https://tv.apple.com/show/shrinking/umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs&at=1000l3cvR).

### Yo Gabba GabbaLand! (Season 2)
– **Release Date:** January 30
– **Genre:** Kids & Family

“Yo Gabba GabbaLand!” expands on the original series, blending early childhood milestones with fun and music. The program is designed to assist young kids in tackling preschool challenges in an entertaining and engaging manner.

[Watch the first season of Yo Gabba GabbaLand! here](https://tv.apple.com/show/yo-gabba-gabbaland/umc.cmc.6a8qdw6e76cba2l0rkgzfbocl?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.6a8qdw6e76cba2l0rkgzfbocl&at=1000l3cvR).

### New Episodes: Palm Royale
Alongside the returning series, “Palm Royale” will continue to release new episodes, wrapping up on January 14.

Apple TV is offered at $12.99 per month and includes a wide selection of popular shows and films. With this thrilling lineup, viewers have much to anticipate this January.

# Quick Charging for Apple Watch: Key Information

A notable enhancement in the recent Apple Watch generations is the launch of quick charging functionalities. This capability allows users to rapidly replenish their Apple Watch batteries, making it easier than ever to keep the device operational throughout the day. This feature is available in the newest Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, along with several former versions.

## Which Apple Watch Models Are Compatible with Quick Charging?

The following Apple Watch versions support quick charging:

– Apple Watch Series 7
– Apple Watch Series 8
– Apple Watch Series 9
– Apple Watch Series 10
– Apple Watch Series 11
– Apple Watch SE 3
– All Apple Watch Ultra iterations

For further details, Apple offers a support document that explains the specifics of quick charging for these versions.

## What Do You Require to Quick Charge Your Apple Watch?

To take advantage of quick charging, a few crucial components are necessary:

1. **Apple USB-C Magnetic Quick Charging Cable**: This cable, which comes with the Apple Watch starting from the Series 7 and Ultra models, has an aluminum casing surrounding the magnetic charger instead of plastic. It is 1 meter long and can be purchased separately for $29. When buying from third-party vendors, be sure to search for the model number A2515.

2. **USB-C Power Adapter**: Apple has stopped including a power adapter in the packaging, so you will need to use an existing one or buy a new one. Any USB-C power adapter that supports USB Power Delivery of 5W or more is suitable for Apple Watch quick charging. Established brands like Anker provide these adapters for under $20.

It is essential to be aware that older charging solutions, such as Apple’s MagSafe Duo or the Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Dock, do not offer quick charging, regardless of the cable or power adapter utilized.

## Additional Charging Alternatives

If you are searching for more charging solutions, various third-party options are available:

– **[Twelve South Butterfly 2-in-1 MagSafe Charger](https://geni.us/3iX4o3s)**
– **[Belkin Apple Watch Quick Charger Dock](https://geni.us/THnMQA)**
– **[Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charger – Quick Charging Stand](https://geni.us/SxEw)**
– **[Belkin MagSafe 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand](https://geni.us/DC46)**

These alternatives offer flexibility for charging your Apple Watch swiftly and effectively, whether at home or while traveling.

In summary, quick charging for Apple Watch improves the user experience by offering a fast and effective solution to keep your device energized. Ensure you possess the correct cable and power adapter to fully benefit from this feature.

**Robot Vacuums and HomeKit: A Revolutionary Approach to Smart Cleaning**

With the launch of iOS 18.4 earlier this year, Apple made considerable improvements to the Home app, enabling users to incorporate robot vacuums into HomeKit for the first time, thanks to the Matter smart home standard. This integration paves the way for exciting opportunities in smart home automation.

### What Can You Achieve with a Robot Vacuum in HomeKit?

By incorporating a compatible robot vacuum into the Home app, users can oversee their devices alongside other HomeKit accessories. This integration allows for numerous automations and scenes, permitting users to program cleaning sessions for specific times or as part of wider home routines. For example, you can automate cleaning tasks for certain rooms at set times.

Additionally, if your robot vacuum has both vacuuming and mopping capabilities, the Home app offers choices to switch between these functions. Users can also check the vacuum’s current state, such as if it is cleaning or recharging.

Integration with HomeKit allows users to control their robot vacuums via Siri. Commands like “Siri, clean the living room” or “Siri, mop the kitchen” enable hands-free management. However, for more advanced features like mapping, object avoidance settings, and custom paths, users will still need to use the manufacturer’s app.

### Which Robot Vacuums Are Compatible with HomeKit?

The embrace of the Matter smart home standard has resulted in an expanding roster of robot vacuums that support HomeKit integration. Prominent brands and their compatible models include:

– **Ecovacs**: Dedicated to HomeKit integration, Ecovacs has started deploying updates for several models.

– **Roborock**: This brand has assured HomeKit support for multiple models, including the Roborock Qrevo Slim, with additional models anticipated in the future.

– **SwitchBot**: The SwitchBot S20 Robot Vacuum and Mop is presently compatible with HomeKit, as is the SwitchBot K11+.

– **iRobot**: Recently, iRobot has initiated the rollout of Matter support for new models. However, the company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and will be taken over by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co.

– **Eufy**: The Eufy E28 Robot Vacuum supports HomeKit integration via the Matter standard.

– **DREAME**: Future Matter firmware updates are predicted to add HomeKit support to the X50 Ultra and X40 Ultra Robot Vacuums.

– **Tapo**: The Tapo LiDAR Smart Navigation Robot Vacuum now provides HomeKit support through Matter.

### Summary

The inclusion of robot vacuum support in the Home app is an appreciated enhancement for the HomeKit platform, which has frequently been viewed as underused. As more users embrace HomeKit-compatible robot vacuums, the possibilities for smart home automation keep growing. Whether you currently have a suitable robot vacuum or are contemplating acquiring one, the integration presents a simple and effective cleaning solution.

Apple has hinted at an exhilarating advancement for its Apple Fitness+ service, teasing “something significant” set to debut in 2026. This announcement was shared through an Instagram Reel on the Apple Fitness+ account, displaying various people perusing a fictional publication titled “Apple Fitness+ Times.” The newspaper boasts several striking headlines that indicate major changes and new content are forthcoming.

### Notable Points from the Teaser

1. **New Year Strategies**: One headline states, “WHAT’S APPLE FITNESS+ PLANNING FOR THE NEW YEAR? Trainers seen filming brand new material.” This suggests that Apple is preparing for new offerings as the new year draws near.

2. **Significant Changes Ahead**: Another headline proclaims, “SOMETHING BIG IS COMING TO APPLE FITNESS+,” indicating that important updates or features are anticipated in 2026.

3. **Launch Countdown**: The statement “THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS. APPLE FITNESS+ 2026 IS ALMOST HERE” underscores the excitement surrounding the forthcoming updates.

4. **Professional Insights**: The teaser also features a headline that notes, “EXCLUSIVE: 2026 PLANS STILL UNDER WRAPS – FOR NOW. Experts forecast January as a month to watch,” suggesting that additional details may emerge soon.

The teaser corresponds with recent findings indicating that Apple Fitness+ is undergoing an evaluation phase, as mentioned in a Bloomberg article. Nevertheless, the company seems dedicated to improving its service, underscored by its recent expansion into 28 new markets, aided by AI-driven voice dubbing.

### Expected Developments

While details are still limited, the teaser implies that the new content may tie in with New Year’s fitness goals, a period when many people aim to enhance their health and wellness. Furthermore, Apple is anticipated to roll out an AI-driven health service in 2026, although it remains uncertain if this will correlate with the imminent Fitness+ updates.

As the countdown to 2026 commences, fitness aficionados and Apple users are excited to discover what innovations and improvements Apple Fitness+ will present. The teaser has ignited interest and speculation within the community, encouraging users to express their opinions on prospective new features in the comments section of the post.

In summary, Apple Fitness+ is set for a thrilling transformation in 2026, featuring new content and functionalities expected to enrich the user experience. As the new year approaches, all attention will be on Apple to reveal how it intends to enhance its fitness service.

**CarPlay Ultra: The Future of In-Car Connectivity**

Earlier this year, Apple officially unveiled CarPlay Ultra, the next-gen iteration of its acclaimed in-car interface, which was first introduced at WWDC 2022. CarPlay Ultra began its rollout in May 2025, initially made available to Aston Martin owners in the U.S. and Canada. Nonetheless, many are eager to know when other automakers will embrace this innovative technology.

### Next-Gen CarPlay Brands

In December 2023, Apple announced that Porsche and Aston Martin would be the first manufacturers to implement CarPlay Ultra starting in 2024. Despite this revelation, the timeline has encountered setbacks, with Apple confirming in January 2025 that the rollout of next-generation CarPlay had been delayed but remained in progress. As of now, Apple has not shared a timeline for when CarPlay Ultra will reach other brands beyond Aston Martin, nor does it maintain a detailed list of manufacturers committed to the platform.

During the initial announcement in June 2022, Apple indicated that multiple brands had committed to support the next-generation CarPlay. By May 2025, three additional partners—Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis—were confirmed. However, various automakers have since retreated from their commitments. For example, Mercedes-Benz has cancelled its plans to adopt next-gen CarPlay, and reports suggest that Audi, Volvo, Polestar, and Renault have also withdrawn their support despite prior commitments.

As of December 2025, the following automakers are confirmed to support CarPlay Ultra:

– Acura
– Aston Martin
– Ford
– Genesis
– Honda
– Hyundai
– Infiniti
– Jaguar
– Kia
– Land Rover
– Lincoln
– Nissan
– Porsche

### Hyundai’s Plans

Recent speculation indicates that Hyundai’s forthcoming IONIQ 3 electric vehicle may include support for CarPlay Ultra. Expected to debut in early 2026, possibly at the Brussels Motor Show in January, the IONIQ 3 is projected to start at around £25,000 ($33,700), considerably more economical than the luxury Aston Martin.

### Ford’s Plans

Ford has also been identified as a collaborator for CarPlay Ultra, but the automaker has voiced concerns regarding the platform’s initial version. In a recent interview, Ford CEO Jim Farley acknowledged the company’s allegiance to Apple while also expressing discontent with the first iteration of CarPlay Ultra. This denotes a careful yet receptive stance on future collaboration.

### Wrap Up

As the CarPlay Ultra landscape continues to evolve, the pivotal question remains whether additional automakers will retract their plans to support the platform. Apple has yet to supply a thorough list of partners, leaving consumers and industry analysts eager for more information. For those interested in the features of CarPlay Ultra, additional details can be accessed in dedicated coverage.

### Conclusion

CarPlay Ultra signifies a major leap in in-car technology, offering improved connectivity and integration for drivers. As more manufacturers join the initiative, it will be fascinating to observe how this new platform influences the future of in-car experiences.

### Obstacles Encountered by Notebook Manufacturers in 2026: A TrendForce Analysis

A recent analysis from TrendForce underscores notable obstacles that notebook producers are projected to face in 2026, largely influenced by increasing memory costs. Nevertheless, Apple is expected to be less impacted than its rivals.

#### Apple Less Vulnerable to Broader Memory Supply Issues

TrendForce has updated its outlook for the worldwide notebook sector, forecasting a total of 173 million unit shipments in 2026. This signifies a 5.4% reduction from 2025. The analysis points to sluggish economic recovery and restrained consumer spending as contributing variables to this decline.

As per TrendForce, the surging prices of memory parts are constricting profit margins for notebook brands, restricting their pricing options. Consequently, manufacturers are taking a more cautious stance on inventory management and product promotions.

Should memory supply challenges persist, the drop in shipments could potentially reach 10.1%. Nonetheless, Apple is predicted to handle these obstacles more adeptly than other brands. The company’s integrated supply chain and robust pricing power afford it greater adaptability in modifying its product range. Furthermore, Apple’s stable procurement levels and reliable demand forecasting allow it to secure prioritized collaboration with memory suppliers.

#### Apple’s Strategic Edge

TrendForce posits that, despite the daunting market conditions, Apple is poised to gain from continuous supply chain efficiencies and scale benefits. The expected launch of an affordable MacBook in the spring of 2026 is likely to boost Apple’s market presence and sustain impressive shipment performance. Attractive pricing for this new offering could lure more customers, further reinforcing Apple’s standing in the market.

#### Shifts in Display Technology

The analysis also highlights a projected dip in LCD panel shipments, anticipated to decline by 7.9% year-on-year in 2026. Conversely, OLED shipments are expected to keep growing, albeit at a more gradual pace. This transition in display technology mirrors evolving consumer preferences and improvements in manufacturing techniques.

In conclusion, while the notebook industry braces for substantial challenges in 2026, Apple’s strategic strengths may enable it to endure the turbulence more effectively than its competitors. The company’s capability to adjust to rising memory costs and launch competitively priced products will be essential for sustaining its market position.