AllYouCanTech

Apple Unveils Public Beta 2 for watchOS 26.2 and Other Enhancements

### Public Beta 2 Now Released for watchOS 26.2 and More

Yesterday, Apple introduced developer beta 3 for its various 26.2 software upgrades, and now public beta 2 has been launched for watchOS 26.2. This update reflects Apple’s continuous effort to enhance user experience across its platforms.

If you are a participant in Apple’s public beta program, you can now download a variety of fresh software updates. Public beta 2 for watchOS 26.2 corresponds to the developer beta 3 issued the day before. Importantly, last week featured public betas solely for macOS and tvOS, which have also progressed to public beta 3 now.

Currently, after a day of evaluation, no major new features have been discovered in the recent updates. Nevertheless, users can anticipate bug fixes that may improve device performance.

Among the significant modifications in this batch of betas is the reinstatement of drag and drop functionality for initiating multitasking in iPadOS. Furthermore, a new user interface for Apple’s AirDrop upgrade has been introduced.

Apple persists in fine-tuning its software offerings, and any additional findings from the watchOS 26.2 public beta and other platforms will be updated as they emerge.

For users who have started utilizing the 26.2 public betas across Apple’s platforms, insights on performance and usability are appreciated in the comments section.

### Best Apple Watch Accessories

For individuals seeking to elevate their Apple Watch experience, examining the finest accessories available can offer enhanced functionality and style.

Potential Benefit Exposed by Disclosed Battery Dimensions of iPhone Fold

### Apple Analyzing Largest iPhone Battery Ever for iPhone Fold

Speculation hints that Apple is preparing to unveil its inaugural foldable iPhone, provisionally titled the iPhone Fold, next year. Recent disclosures have shed light on the anticipated battery capacity of this groundbreaking device.

As per leak aggregator yeux1122, the battery capacity presently undergoing testing for the iPhone Fold is considerably greater than that of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Reports suggest that the battery for the iPhone Fold is being evaluated within the 5400-5800 mAh range. For reference, the iPhone 17 Pro Max boasts a battery capacity slightly above 5000 mAh, making the potential for the iPhone Fold to reach or possibly exceed 6000 mAh significant.

The iPhone Air, for example, was initially assessed with a peak battery capacity of 3000 mAh, ultimately achieving 3149 mAh in its finalized version. This indicates that Apple is striving for a major enhancement in battery life with the iPhone Fold, particularly given the complications posed by its expanded display.

The iPhone Fold is rumored to possess an internal display approximately 7.58 inches in size, a considerable rise from the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s 6.9 inches. This increased screen size might result in higher battery usage during intensive operations. However, the device will also feature a smaller external display of around 5.38 inches, which is anticipated to use significantly less energy.

### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

While it’s still unclear if the iPhone Fold will attain battery life that matches or surpasses that of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the current testing outcomes are encouraging. There are also suggestions that Apple intends to equip the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max with an even bigger battery, potentially establishing a new benchmark for battery efficiency across its lineup.

Considering the high price point expected for the iPhone Fold—likely exceeding $2,000—Apple is probably going to prioritize battery longevity to fulfill consumer demands. After dealing with battery-related issues with the iPhone Air, the company will aim to ensure that the iPhone Fold provides exceptional performance.

In summary, the leaked details about the iPhone Fold’s battery capacity are a positive indication for prospective users. As Apple continues to evolve in the smartphone arena, an emphasis on battery life will be vital for maintaining its competitive advantage.

Beginning Tomorrow, Additional iPhone Users Will Be Able to Integrate Their Driver’s License into Apple Wallet

Apple Wallet’s support for digital driver’s licenses and state IDs is on the rise, with Illinois officially announcing that as of tomorrow, iPhone users will have the capability to include their driver’s license or state ID in the Apple Wallet app for digital usage. With this update, this feature is now accessible in 13 states, plus Puerto Rico.

### Apple Wallet Driver’s License Capability in Illinois

Today, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias shared the news. Starting tomorrow, residents of Illinois can access the Wallet app on their iPhones and quickly add their driver’s license through a few simple steps. Users will be required to take a picture of their license and perform a Face ID-style scan, followed by a short waiting period for identity confirmation.

After the license is integrated into Apple Wallet, it can be utilized in-person, online, and in-app at selected establishments. This includes TSA checkpoints at more than 250 airports nationwide, like O’Hare, Midway, and Lambert. Although Apple has not released a complete list of establishments that recognize mobile driver’s licenses, further information on where Apple Wallet digital driver’s licenses can be used is available through various channels.

Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, conveyed her excitement regarding the launch, asserting, “Driver’s licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet bring users one step closer to supplanting the physical wallet with a convenient, secure, and private digital wallet… The introduction of Illinois driver’s licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet enhances everyday experiences further.”

The rollout of mobile ID support in the Wallet app to Illinois comes after Apple’s earlier launch of Digital ID in Wallet. Both features are present in the Wallet app:

– **Digital ID**: Accessible to anyone in the United States possessing a passport.
– **Mobile driver’s license or state ID**: Offered in specific states and Japan.

Both can be employed at TSA checkpoints throughout the U.S., and mobile driver’s licenses might be recognized at additional businesses and organizations. Apple has signaled that “more Digital ID acceptance scenarios” will be forthcoming.

As residents of Illinois get ready to incorporate their driver’s licenses into Apple Wallet, the ease and security of digital identification persist in transforming how individuals engage with their identification in routine scenarios.

Thieves in London Return Stolen Mobiles When They Aren’t iPhones

### The Change in Smartphone Theft: Why Criminals Favor iPhones Over Androids

No one wishes for their smartphone to be stolen, but a recent article from the local journalism outlet London Centric indicates that non-iPhones are becoming less appealing to thieves.

#### London Centric Highlights Multiple Android Users Whose Phones Were Declined by Thieves

Though it may appear that phone thieves in London will take any device within reach, an increasing number of signs suggest that many are primarily drawn to Apple iPhones. Numerous Android users residing in the capital, who shared their experiences with London Centric, mentioned they underwent an emotional rollercoaster after they were robbed — only to have their device returned.

The article conveys accounts from a few of these Android users in London, some of whom possessed Samsung Galaxy devices. For instance, there’s the account of Sam, who was robbed by a group of eight men in January. The thieves seized Sam’s phone, his camera, and even the beanie hat he was wearing. After ensuring Sam had no further belongings, they began to flee. What transpired next was unexpected. With most of the gang already heading down the Old Kent Road, one individual turned back and handed Sam his Android phone, bluntly declaring, “Don’t want no Samsung.”

In a similar vein, Galaxy owner Mark had his device snatched by a thief on an e-bike. Mark recalls, “I saw him stop, glance at my phone, then toss it on the pavement. He pedaled away and I picked my phone up.” Another amusing tale features Simon, who encountered an unusually affable stranger (and potential thief) who lost all interest upon Simon revealing his phone. This made Simon realize that his fortuitous meeting was related to a possible mugging. He overheard the would-be thief explaining to his supposed accomplice their reason for backing off: “Phone’s dead, innit.”

As highlighted by John Gruber at Daring Fireball, iPhone versus Android ownership in the UK is roughly split down the middle. However, it’s evident that, particularly due to high resale values, the iPhone continues to be significantly more sought after.

Have you ever experienced or heard a tale similar to this, where an Android phone was rejected by thieves? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Steve Jobs Talks About Pixar’s Initial Triumph in Recently Released Interview

### The Steve Jobs Archive: A Wealth of Insights

Three years ago, the Steve Jobs Archive was established as “the definitive home for Steve’s narrative and a resource for new generations eager to leave their own imprint.” This project, led by Laurene Powell Jobs, Jony Ive, Tim Cook, and others, seeks to preserve and disseminate the legacy of one of the most significant figures in technology and design.

#### A Repository of Knowledge

Since its launch, the Steve Jobs Archive has gradually unveiled a trove of captivating insights about Jobs. Among these is the hardcover book titled *Make Something Wonderful*, which distills his philosophy and approach to innovation. The archive functions not only as a historical document but also as a source of inspiration for budding creators and entrepreneurs.

#### Honoring Pixar’s Legacy

In a recent feature, the Steve Jobs Archive published an unseen interview with Jobs from 1999, marking the 30th anniversary of *Toy Story*. This interview, conducted on November 22, 1996, just a year after the film’s release, offers a unique viewpoint on Pixar’s revolutionary success.

In the interview, Jobs expands on Pixar’s inventive business model, which empowers artists and engineers by allowing them a stake in their creations. He reflects on the insights gained from Disney about focus and discipline, highlighting the significance of storytelling and cultural impact.

#### Insights from the Interview

The footage showcases Jobs discussing the long-range vision fueling Pixar’s success, challenging the perception of it as an overnight triumph. He confronts the difficulties of guiding a team of exceptionally talented individuals and the incentives that motivate them to stay with the company. Central to his message is the idea of a more profound purpose: to craft stories that resonate and deliver lasting value to culture.

#### Accessing the Interview

For those keen on delving into this enlightening interview, it is accessible for viewing on the Steve Jobs Archive website. This resource remains an essential platform for grasping Jobs’ contributions and the principles that guided his endeavors.

The Steve Jobs Archive not only celebrates the legacy of its namesake but also acts as a guiding light for future innovators, inspiring them to leave their mark on the world.