Author: sparta

Two Expected Shortcomings of the Coming iPhone Air Seem to Be Advantages

# iPhone Air: Durability and Battery Performance Surpass Anticipations

Apple’s latest iPhone Air has been in the hands of users for several days, and even longer for reviewers. So far, there’s been a surprisingly favorable agreement on two critical aspects expected to be shortcomings for the iPhone Air: durability and battery performance.

## iPhone Air’s Durability and Battery Performance Have Stunned

I’ve been utilizing my iPhone Air since early Friday morning, and up to this point, I am thoroughly enjoying it. However, despite reports of high interest in the standard iPhone 17 and 17 Pro lines, sales for the iPhone Air appear to be underwhelming. This might, perhaps, relate to misconceptions surrounding the Air’s anticipated weaknesses.

For instance, it makes sense that users on TikTok would take one glance at the sleek design and presume the iPhone Air will:

1. Bend easily
2. Have poor battery performance

Yet among users who have actually tested Apple’s new sleek model, the agreement has been notably different. iPhone Air’s durability has continually astonished even the most bend-focused YouTubers. JerryRigEverything was unable to induce bending through pure physical force and eventually had to rely on machine assistance.

Battery performance, on the other hand, has been another point of strength. iPhone Air’s battery performance has shown, across various assessments, to be quite similar to that of the base iPhone 17 and last year’s iPhone 16 Pro—just as Apple’s predictions indicated. My own experiences have certainly mirrored this. The iPhone Air lasts me just as long as my iPhone 16 Pro did on iOS 26, and surprisingly, even longer on some days.

Would I achieve even superior battery performance with an iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max? Certainly. However, the Air’s slim design has somehow not led to reduced battery performance. It’s about as effective as the 16 Pro, which users generally regarded as having excellent battery performance last year.

If you’re worried about having fewer rear cameras or inferior built-in speakers, then the iPhone Air may not suit you. But if your decision against the iPhone Air was primarily based on concerns about bending or subpar battery performance, it could be time to reevaluate that decision.

If you own an iPhone Air, how’s it performing for you? If not, what led you to choose against it? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top iPhone Accessories

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More.*

Read More
iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra Drop Test Outcomes: Both Gadgets Shatter at the Same Rate

**iPhone 17 Pro Max vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra Drop Test: They Shatter Just As Quickly**

The iPhone 17 and iPhone Air have unveiled design improvements focused on enhancing durability, with Apple emphasizing these attributes during their latest launch event. The iPhone 17 Pros feature aluminum unibody designs, with metal extending over the camera area to improve heat dissipation. Both the front and rear of the iPhone 17 Pro Max are safeguarded by Ceramic Shield 2, which is three times more scratch-resistant compared to earlier versions. The iPhone Air also utilizes Ceramic Shield 2 on the front, while the back is fully shielded by Ceramic Shield glass.

Recent real-time durability evaluations shared on social media have illustrated that the new iPhones exhibit greater strength than their forerunners. The initial drop test of the iPhone 17 Pro Max indicated that the device endured various drops without damage to its glass surfaces. In spite of its slim profile, the iPhone Air demonstrated resistance to bending. Nonetheless, these evaluations also indicated that the aluminum may scuff readily upon impact, and the iPhone 17 Pros have been criticized for susceptibility to scratches.

A methodical drop test conducted by PhoneBuff, a YouTube channel, pitted Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max against Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra. PhoneBuff uses a robot to ensure uniform drop conditions, employing a sandpaper surface to mimic concrete. In the experiment, both devices were dropped from a height of 1 meter (3.3 feet) across three scenarios: back, corner, and front. The rear glass fractured on both smartphones, with the Galaxy S25 Ultra also suffering damage to its camera glass. The corner drop resulted in notable scuffing and denting on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, although its display remained undamaged. However, both screens cracked when dropped face down, with the crack in the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s display causing lens flaring on the front camera.

Repeating the test from 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) exacerbated the damage, leading to further shattering of both phones’ glass covers. Importantly, the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s primary camera focus was compromised by the second corner drop. The verdict is evident: protective accessories, such as screen protectors and cases, are vital for the iPhone 17 Pro Max to reduce the chances of incidental damage.

Read More
New Entries to Apple Arcade for October

Apple Arcade keeps expanding its collection by adding fresh titles every month, and October 2025 is no different. The service has revealed four thrilling new games, with the standout being NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition, set to debut on October 16.

### Four New Apple Arcade Games in October

Recently, Apple Arcade subscribers have welcomed the launch of two new titles: [NFL Retro Bowl ’26](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nfl-retro-bowl-26/id6476767864?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_details&app=arcade&mttnsubad=6476767864) and [Jeopardy! Daily](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jeopardy-daily/id6475484821?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_details&app=arcade&mttnsubad=6475484821). Nevertheless, the forthcoming releases are set to elevate the excitement even further.

On **October 2**, Apple Arcade will unveil three additional games, broadening its extensive lineup.

The key highlight for the month, though, is the launch of [NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nba-2k26-arcade-edition/id6746148175?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_details&app=arcade&mttnsubad=6746148175) on **October 16**. This edition introduces a new NBA Eras feature, enabling players to relive iconic moments from basketball history.

Rebecca Chan, Visual Concepts’ general manager, shared her excitement about the new feature: “Creating NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition has been an incredible experience, and we’re excited to introduce our latest feature, NBA Eras. Beginning with the iconic Larry Bird vs. Magic Johnson era, players can revisit decades of drafts, championships, and create amazing highlight reels with the GOATs.”

### The Shift Towards Big IP Titles

Although Apple Arcade has historically focused on indie games, there has been a clear transition towards titles that are based on significant intellectual properties (IP). This shift signifies the service’s approach to draw a wider audience by integrating renowned franchises with its indie game selections.

For those keen on learning more about this trend, further details can be found

Read More
M5 Mac Launch Timeline: Anticipated Release Dates for Upcoming Macs

Apple’s M5 Chip: Upcoming Release and Fresh Mac Variants

With great anticipation, the tech world looks forward to the introduction of Apple’s M5 chip, with speculation indicating that the inaugural M5 Macs, including the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, are imminent. Here’s a detailed summary of what to anticipate regarding the M5 chip and its related offerings.

### M5 Chip Launch Expected Shortly

It is expected that Apple will reveal its next-generation M5 chip in October. This unveiling might take place during a special event or through a series of product announcements over several days. Notably, the M5 chip might not first appear in a Mac product; instead, it is rumored that the refreshed iPad Pro will be the initial device to showcase the M5 chip, continuing the pattern established by the M4 chip.

Moreover, there are hints that the new Vision Pro headset could also feature the M5 chip, which would broaden its usage beyond conventional computing devices.

### Early 2026 Releases for M5 MacBook Pro and MacBook Air

Traditionally, Apple unveils new MacBook Pro models in the fall, keeping expectations high for the announcement of the M5 MacBook Pro this year. However, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has suggested that the M5 MacBook Pro might not be available until early 2026. When it eventually launches, it is predicted to uphold the existing industrial design in both 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, alongside three chip versions: M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max.

Simultaneously, the M5 MacBook Air is also anticipated to be revealed in early 2026, likely around February or March, paralleling the release schedule of the M4 model. The M5 MacBook Air is expected to retain the same design as its predecessor, providing 13-inch and 15-inch options.

While the spotlight has largely been on the MacBook series, there is a possibility of other M5 Macs, such as the Mac mini and iMac, making their debut in late 2025 or early 2026.

### Conclusion

As the release of the M5 chip nears, enthusiasm grows regarding the possible improvements and new functionalities that will accompany the next generation of Macs. The tech community is eager to observe how Apple will advance its innovation with the M5 chip and what novel features will be integrated into the upcoming MacBook Pro and MacBook Air variants.

Read More
A One-Step Apple Shortcut That Might Turn Into Your Next Preferred Tool

# Harnessing the Potential of Apple’s Shortcuts App: A Revolutionary Tool for Accessing App Settings

The Shortcuts app from Apple has emerged as a significant resource for iPhone users, particularly with the latest updates in iOS 26. While numerous users delve into intricate automations, some of the most impactful shortcuts are surprisingly straightforward. One such shortcut, recently unveiled by tech aficionado Quinn Nelson, simplifies the method of reaching an app’s settings, enhancing speed and efficiency.

## The Difficulty of Reaching App Settings

Last year, Apple redesigned the iPhone’s Settings app, which, although visually appealing, complicated the navigation to specific app settings. Users frequently found themselves taking several steps: opening the Settings app, scrolling to the Apps section, and identifying the desired app. This procedure can be tedious and irritating, especially for those who often tweak app settings.

## Presenting the ‘App Settings’ Shortcut

Quinn Nelson’s shortcut tackles this problem directly. By adhering to a few uncomplicated steps, users can establish a shortcut that enables them to access an app’s settings without the trouble of sifting through the entire Settings menu. Here’s how to set it up:

1. **Download the ‘App Settings’ Shortcut**: Retrieve the single-step shortcut from

Read More
Overview of New Enhancements and Modifications in iOS 26.1 Beta 1 for iPhone

a handful of postponed features that we may begin to observe in this beta edition. For instance, the key enhancement rolled out in iOS 26.1 is the broadened capabilities of Apple Intelligence to additional languages, such as Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Swedish, Turkish, Vietnamese, Chinese (Traditional), and Portuguese (Portugal).

In addition, the anticipated expansion of Live Translation languages is already underway with iOS 26.1 beta 1, as the company has included Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Italian, Japanese, and Korean as accessible languages. It remains uncertain whether the newly added languages for Apple Intelligence will have Live Translation support in iOS 26.1 or if Apple intends to reserve that for a later update.

iOS 26.1 beta 1 enhances the Liquid Glass functionality

“Revamped Paint Functionality Boosts Windows Application as a Credible Photoshop Substitute”

One of the most recent updates for Windows Insiders has provided us with a fresh perspective on forthcoming features for Paint that may enhance Microsoft’s default Windows application as a stronger rival to Photoshop. As per a release announcement outlining the updates set to arrive for Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels for Windows 11, Microsoft is introducing a feature to save Paint projects as a unique new .paint file. This project file will function similarly to Photoshop’s own project files, which enable users to swiftly return to an ongoing project without needing to begin anew.

In addition to these new project files, Microsoft is also adding more capabilities to Paint in the form of opacity sliders, allowing you to modify the transparency of the brush and pencil tools available in Paint. These new sliders will be displayed on the left side of the application when choosing a new brush or pencil.

It seems evident that Microsoft is positioning Paint to be a more creative application similar to Photoshop than it has ever been before. The company has previously integrated features such as background removal into Paint, alongside other Copilot-related enhancements. Now, with the launch of .paint files, there might be more incentive than ever to explore Paint.

Paint isn’t the sole application receiving additional features

Like anything, not everyone is pleased with these changes, and there has been an ongoing discussion regarding Microsoft’s intent to incorporate AI features into Paint after Copilot has become such a significant aspect of its future business strategy. While there is certainly some utility to be discovered in this new feature — along with other updated functionalities Microsoft is adding to Paint in this release — some individuals are not particularly thrilled that Microsoft continues to interfere with its older, reliable applications. A user even remarked that the company ought to leave applications like Paint and Notepad alone rather than overloading them with new features, especially those related to Copilot.

Beyond simply adding new features to Paint, Microsoft has also pointed out several other modifications that have come with this latest Insiders build. The Snipping Tool has undergone another enhancement, with the application now featuring Quick markup, a “quicker method to annotate your screenshots and optimize your workflow.” Alternatives like ShareX have traditionally offered more capabilities, but the addition of Quick markup in the Snipping Tool may finally establish it as a significant competitor for those who prefer not to use third-party applications for taking screenshots on Windows.

Read More
Apple Ginza Store Reopens Following 22 Years with a Fresh Design on Friday

**Apple Ginza: A Fresh Era in Retail Architecture**

Apple Ginza, the first retail outlet of the company outside the United States, initially welcomed visitors in 2003. Following a major redesign, it will be reopening on September 26, 2025, at its original site, presenting an “all-new design” that embodies both contemporary style and Japanese aesthetics.

### Cutting-Edge Design Elements

The recently reimagined Apple Ginza boasts a stunning double-skin glass facade fitted with integrated adaptive louvers. These features collaborate to control light and temperature throughout the day, improving the store’s eco-friendliness. The layout is crafted to optimize natural light, fostering a luminous and welcoming environment. Furthermore, the interior includes warm wooden paneling, honoring traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

### Enhancements for Accessibility

In accordance with current retail trends, Apple has implemented significant accessibility upgrades to the store. The new layout encompasses seating and tables at various heights, catering to customers with differing needs and ensuring a more inclusive shopping experience.

### A Significant Milestone

Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted the importance of this reopening, sharing, “Apple Ginza is dear to us as our very first retail outlet outside the U.S. This reopening marks yet another remarkable milestone on our journey in Japan.” Cook underscored the store’s significance in connecting with customers and communities nationwide.

### Distinct Experiences

To commemorate the reopening, Apple Ginza will feature a unique “Today at Apple Spotlight” event in partnership with the Japanese supergroup Number_i. This session will delve into Spatial Audio and spatial video via their single, “U.M.A.” The event will debut exclusively at Apple Ginza before extending to other locations across Japan on October 11. Additionally, enthusiasts will have the chance to reserve one-on-one demonstrations of the Apple Vision Pro, providing an immersive experience of the “U.M.A.” music video through the Spatial Gallery app.

### Conclusion

With its innovative design, focus on accessibility, and exceptional customer experiences, the reopening of Apple Ginza signifies an important chapter in the company’s narrative. It not only showcases Apple’s commitment to sustainability and contemporary design but also strengthens its deep connections to the Japanese market and its clientele.

Read More
“Summary of ‘Pluribus’: Information on the Apple TV+ Show by the Creator of Breaking Bad”

**Pluribus: An Upcoming Sci-Fi Series by Vince Gilligan Coming to Apple TV+**

‘Pluribus’ is a forthcoming sci-fi series conceived by Vince Gilligan, famous for his contributions to *Breaking Bad* and *Better Call Saul*. The series is scheduled to debut on **November 7, 2025**, with the initial two episodes accessible on Apple TV+, followed by weekly installments until December 26.

### Synopsis of Pluribus

The series has been in the works since Apple revealed it in 2022. Gilligan, known for weaving engaging stories, teams up once again with Rhea Seehorn, who stars as the main character, portrayed as “the most miserable person on Earth” burdened with the mission to save the world from joy.

Apple has devised a distinctive marketing approach for *Pluribus*, featuring a phone number for fans to receive updates, including messages aimed at Seehorn’s character, Carol.

### Genre and Location

*Pluribus* is identified as a sci-fi drama but also encompasses aspects of psychological sci-fi. Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Gilligan has pointed out that the series will exclude crime or methamphetamine, representing a shift from his past projects. He hinted at a major change in the world during the first episode, leading to intense repercussions that will develop throughout the series.

Seehorn categorizes the genre as skewing toward psychological sci-fi, with themes that mirror modern life through a speculative perspective, akin to *The Twilight Zone*.

### Cast and Roles

Alongside Rhea Seehorn, the cast features:
– Karolina Wydra (*Sneaky Pete*)
– Carlos Manuel Vesga (*The Hijacking of Flight 601*)
– Miriam Shor (*American Fiction*)
– Samba Schutte (*Our Flag Means Death*)

Gilligan has shared his enthusiasm for audiences to witness Seehorn in a distinct role, depicting a flawed hero aiming for goodness.

### Season 2 Announcement

In an atypical decision, Apple has preemptively confirmed a second season for *Pluribus*, as part of the original agreement with Gilligan. This early declaration reflects confidence in the series’ likelihood of success, aiming to eliminate long gaps for viewers between seasons.

### Final Thoughts

*Pluribus* is poised to become one of the most captivating new series on Apple TV+, merging Gilligan’s storytelling expertise with an innovative concept and a skilled cast. With its launch impending, excitement is mounting for what may serve as a noteworthy enhancement to the sci-fi genre.

Apple TV+ subscriptions are priced at **$12.99 per month**, offering a variety of popular shows and films.

Read More