Author: sparta

Apple Arcade Grows Collection with Three New Titles: MySims and Toca Boca Jr Classics Included in Additions

After the launch of [Football Manager 26 Touch](https://apple.co/47Zkv97) a few days back, [Apple Arcade](https://apps.apple.com/arcade/subscribe?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_subscribe) introduced three more titles today. Here are the specifics.

Each month, and sometimes multiple times within a month, Apple enriches [Apple Arcade](https://apps.apple.com/arcade/subscribe?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_subscribe), its subscription platform that now features over 270 ad-free games from both independent and major developers.

Last Tuesday, [Apple Arcade](https://apps.apple.com/arcade/subscribe?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_subscribe) welcomed Football Manager 26 Touch, reviving the title after its 2024 edition. Today, they have added three additional titles:

### MySims

Discover a new universe with MySims™—it’s your realm to reshape in this nostalgic re-release with enhanced visuals! Relocate to a town that has been having difficulties recently. With some imagination and assistance from the locals, you can help this place prosper. Enhance the town to draw in characters, including Chef Gino Delicioso and DJ Candy Supergroove, along with arcade owner Vic Vector and Cap’n Ginny, the town pirate. Find out what the citizens desire and require, so you can make their lives enjoyable in your Sim’s new community. Create a hot tub or jukebox from the ground up, construct homes and businesses from roof to entrance. Reveal special decorations and designs as you navigate the expanding town. From the furniture and items to the buildings and the town as a whole—each of your inventions is distinct. In MySims™, your creations… are what truly matter!

[Play MySims on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/43NyAUI)

### MySims Kingdom

Set off on a quest of exploration to investigate and personalize the MySims™ Kingdom in this retro re-release with upgraded visuals! MySims™ Kingdom places you on a mission to assist King Roland and his subjects in breathing new life into the Kingdom. During this grand adventure, you will team up with friends, uncover intriguing landscapes, face challenges, and construct incredible inventions. And in classic MySims™ style, nearly everything is customizable, ensuring that every creation in your environment has a distinctive appearance! MySims™ Kingdom… start your own adventure of exploration and discovery!

[Play MySims Kingdom on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/4oCl7Yj)

### Toca Boca Jr Classics

Presenting 9 games in one app, Toca Boca Jr Classics offers “a compilation of Toca Boca Jr’s favorite games,” including:

– **KITCHEN 2:** Step into the shoes of a top chef and let your culinary creativity flow!
– **PET DOCTOR:** Assist your animal pals in feeling their best.
– **BUILDERS:** Bring your wildest imaginations to life with builder buddies!
– **MINI:** Dive into self-expression and craft your own characters.
– **HAIR SALON:** Cut, color, style, and experiment with hair!
– **KITCHEN SUSHI:** Prepare signature sushi dishes for your clientele.
– **DANCE:** Dress up, groove, and create music videos!
– **BLOCKS:** Build your own communities from scratch.
– **LAB: ELEMENTS:** Conduct experiments, play with tools, and make discoveries!

[Play Toca Boca Jr Classics on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/4qDxTXU)

Apple Arcade is offered as a

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Apple Showcases Third-Party Applications Leveraging Liquid Glass in iOS 26 and Future Versions

# Apple Unveils iOS 26 with Liquid Glass Aesthetic

In September, Apple debuted iOS 26, presenting its groundbreaking Liquid Glass aesthetic. This fresh design philosophy has motivated third-party developers to upgrade their applications, aligning with Apple’s newest design principles.

## New Visual Showcase for Developers

To assist with this transition, Apple has launched a new section on the [Apple Developer website](https://developer.apple.com/design/new-design-gallery/). This visual showcase acts as a guide for developers, demonstrating how various-sized teams are utilizing the Liquid Glass design to craft engaging and adaptive experiences across Apple’s platforms.

The showcase includes side-by-side displays of popular applications before and after their redesign for iOS 26. This initiative not only underscores the aesthetic enhancements but also highlights the functional improvements that accompany the new design language.

## Highlighted Applications

Among the applications featured in the showcase are:

– Crumbl
– Tide Guide
– GrowPal
– Lumy
– Sky Guide
– Linearity
– LTK
– CardPointers
– American Airlines
– Lowe’s
– Photoroom
– OmniFocus 4
– CNN
– Essayist
– Lucid Motors

### Case Studies

**Linearity**: This vector-graphics design tool has been harmonized across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, enriching the iPad experience with a new two-column Inspector that enables users to browse and modify designs side-by-side. The app adjusts fluidly to window sizes, making intricate designs more approachable. On iPhone, enhancements in touch targets and gestures enable smoother interactions, even with one hand.

**Crumbl**: The Crumbl app employs the Liquid Glass design to highlight its brand photography. The recognizable pink branding has been woven into the content layer, allowing the visuals to dominate while preserving user-friendly controls.

## Discover the Showcase

Even for those who aren’t developers, the

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Apple Celebrated in Forbes’ 2025 Compilation of America’s Top Employers for Veterans

Every year, *Forbes* and *Statista* survey almost 20,000 veterans employed by major U.S. companies to evaluate their employers. The rankings for 2025 were disclosed today, showing a notable rise for Apple in comparison to last year.

## Apple secures 18th place, significantly better than previous years

As per *Forbes*:

> “Veterans of our nation are recognized as some of the most capable and adaptable personnel in the United States. With their leadership abilities, proficiency in high-pressure environments, and skill in innovative problem-solving, U.S. veterans are generally essential assets to any organization. However, veterans may face challenges when transitioning into civilian careers. Aligning their distinct capabilities with corporate roles can often be tough. Additionally, veterans might need to navigate the stigma that can sometimes accompany service-related injuries or disabilities.”

This is why, for the last six years, *Forbes* and *Statista* have analyzed companies that successfully attract and retain veterans, with programs focused on skills advancement, health care benefits, housing support, and more.

Upon gathering insights from veterans, *Forbes* and *Statista* evaluate current and previous data to compile the final rankings, which comprise “the 150 companies that received the highest ratings.”

Last year, Apple was placed 36th, a significant jump from its 68th position in 2022.

In the 2025 rankings, Apple achieved 18th place, surpassing IBM (27th), Meta (28th), and Amazon (82nd), but trailing behind Google (2nd) and Microsoft (5th).

Apple provides a Veterans and Military Purchase Program, granting a 10% discount to “current and Veteran members of the US Military, National Guard and Reserve” and their immediate family. Additional details can be found [here](https://www.apple.com/shop/browse/home/veterans_military).

For this year’s Forbes’ America’s Best Employers For Veterans list,

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Apple TV Unveils Trailers for Two Upcoming Series Launches

Apple TV is nearing the conclusion of its most prosperous year to date, and today the platform unveiled trailers for two of its concluding premieres of 2025: the docuseries *Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age* and the thriller *The Hunt*.

## Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age

*Prehistoric Planet* is a documentary-style series that previously focused on dinosaurs, but with its latest ‘Ice Age’ edition, it is branching out in an innovative direction. As in prior seasons, Apple employs CGI to present a docuseries featuring ancient creatures that once inhabited the earth. This new version is narrated by Tom Hiddleston and is being promoted by Apple as a fresh series given its altered focus.

*Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age* will debut on **Wednesday, November 26** on Apple TV, featuring the complete five-episode season.

Here’s Apple’s description of the show:

> “Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age” marks a grand new chapter of the acclaimed natural history series from executive producers Jon Favreau and Mike Gunton, crafted by BBC Studios Natural History Unit (“Planet Earth”), and narrated by Golden Globe and Olivier Award recipient Tom Hiddleston (“Earthsounds”), with an original soundtrack by Hans Zimmer, Anže Rozman, and Kara Talve from Bleeding Fingers Music. The five-part docuseries transports viewers into a striking new era of prehistoric existence, millions of years following the dinosaurs’ extinction — an epoch defined by ice, the fierce struggle for survival, and the emergence of a fresh assembly of giants: the legendary megafauna.

## The Hunt

*The Hunt* is an ‘intense’ new thriller debuting on Apple TV on **Wednesday, December 3**. Apple’s latest series is the newest addition to a burgeoning collection of French-language content.

Here’s Apple’s official description of *The Hunt*:

> Franck (Benoît Magimel) and his lifelong friends relish their weekends spent hunting together, yet one Sunday, they encounter another group of hunters who begin targeting them for no apparent reason. When one member of their group is shot, Franck’s friends retaliate, taking down an assailant. Just managing to flee, the four friends decide to keep the incident under wraps. Franck attempts to return to his normal life with his wife Krystel (Mélanie Laurent), but in the following days, he begins to feel as though he and his friends are being monitored, or worse, pursued by hunters who are now determined to exact vengeance.

Apple TV is accessible for $12.99 a month and showcases hit TV series and films like *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, *Silo*, and *Shrinking*.

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9to5Mac Daily: November 6, 2025 – News on iPhone Air 2 Speculations and Additional Updates

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the newest news is essential, particularly for Apple aficionados. 9to5Mac Daily constitutes a vital resource, delivering listeners a summary of the most prominent stories within the Apple ecosystem each weekday. This podcast is tailored for those eager to stay attuned to Apple-related advancements, ranging from product releases to software enhancements.

### What is 9to5Mac Daily?

9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that presents a succinct overview of the most important news stories influencing Apple and its users. Each episode is meticulously curated to spotlight significant subjects, ensuring that listeners remain updated on the latest trends and announcements in the technology sector. The podcast is accessible on multiple platforms, including [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), and through a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for those who prefer alternative podcast players.

### Daily Episodes and Subscription Advantages

New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are produced every weekday, facilitating consistent updates for listeners. By subscribing to the podcast, users can guarantee they receive new episodes immediately upon release. For individuals seeking to elevate their listening experience, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus provides added perks such as ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus material.

### Sponsored Content

The podcast is backed by sponsors like Backblaze, which offers cloud backup solutions. Listeners can capitalize on promotional deals, including a discount code for first-time users, ensuring the safety of their critical files.

### Engaging with the Community

Listeners are invited to express their opinions and feedback. They can contact via email at

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Apple Bolsters Environmental Efforts in Australia and New Zealand

Apple has broadened its renewable energy projects with a fresh investment in New Zealand as part of its Restore Fund, which is designed to facilitate nature-based carbon removal initiatives across the globe. The firm revealed this expansion alongside updates regarding its ongoing actions in Australia.

The Restore Fund, initiated in 2021, concentrates on premium environmental endeavors. In New Zealand, Apple, in collaboration with Climate Asset Management, is investing in the safeguarding and rehabilitation of 8,600 hectares of forestland across multiple locations. This initiative complies with Forest Stewardship Council guidelines and seeks to boost biodiversity, enhance carbon sequestration, and yield financial returns through the sustainable management of redwood forests while preserving 3,000 hectares of indigenous forest.

In Australia, Apple is converting 1,700 hectares of compromised sugarcane farmland into a macadamia orchard, planting upwards of 800,000 trees. This project, situated south of Bundaberg, aims to reintroduce native species, enhance soil quality, improve water efficiency, and establish a biodiversity corridor that connects two national parks in partnership with the Indigenous conservation group W.Y.L.D.

Furthermore, Apple is enlarging its renewable energy portfolio in Australia with a new solar initiative in Lancaster, Victoria, anticipated to produce more than 1 million megawatt-hours of clean electricity each year before 2030.

These announcements follow Apple’s recent investments in Europe and China, reflecting the company’s dedication to reaching its Apple 2030 objectives through global environmental initiatives.

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Samsung Unveils AI Enhancement for Galaxy S26, Elevating Camera Performance

Details were disclosed by Samsung’s VP of the Mobile Experience Division during the Q3 earnings call.

(Image credit: Android Headlines)

Essential information

  • Samsung hints at Galaxy S26 featuring advanced AI and enhanced chipset.
  • New camera sensors anticipated to boost image clarity and performance in low light.
  • APV codec for video recording is speculated to provide two modes for optimized storage while recording.
Disclaimer

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Meta Reveals Schedule for the Introduction of WhatsApp Username Support

Beginning next year, WhatsApp will start to support usernames, moving away from its exclusive use of phone numbers. This upgrade, communicated to businesses, details the implementation timetable and technical transition strategy.

### Business-Scoped User IDs

Recently, Meta has been gearing up for the introduction of username support on WhatsApp. This includes a system for reserving usernames that will be accessible prior to the complete feature rollout. In a document shared with business partners, Meta highlighted the rollout strategies and technical prerequisites for this new functionality.

The rollout will present a Business-Scoped User ID (BSUID), a distinct identifier allocated to each WhatsApp user. This enables businesses to message users even if their phone number is not available. The BSUID will be connected to the user_id parameter and incorporated into all message webhooks, guaranteeing that businesses can securely engage with users while complying with privacy and data protection regulations.

The BSUID aims to deliver a reliable and privacy-focused method for businesses to identify and assist customers who choose usernames over phone numbers. This identifier will feature in WhatsApp’s webhook alerts and be supported in both existing and forthcoming API versions. Developers must update their systems to ensure smooth message routing, customer records, and automated replies.

Meta envisions a future where businesses can communicate with customers purely through usernames, removing the necessity for personal contact information.

### Timeline Details

Meta has released a schedule for the launch of username support. Businesses have until June 2026 to implement the necessary technical changes to adopt BSUIDs. This implies that the rollout may take place shortly after this deadline, with the username reservation system probably launching in the first half of the year, enabling users to secure their preferred usernames.

In conclusion, the introduction of usernames on WhatsApp signifies a considerable change in how users can engage with the platform, improving privacy and offering businesses innovative ways to connect with customers.

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Spotify Launches Functionality to Recognize Top-Played Tracks by Android Users

Indeed… that’s how often you played that same tune this week (no criticism).

(Image credit: Android Central)

Essential information

  • Spotify revealed “listening stats,” a weekly summary of the music users have enjoyed repeatedly.
  • Listening stats will showcase a user’s favorite artists from the last “four weeks,” featuring highlights, milestones, and more, which can be shared with friends.
  • Recent updates from Spotify include offering text-based song requests to Premium subscribers for its AI DJ along with additional features for ChatGPT users.

Notice

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