Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple to Improve Sleep Monitoring Capabilities on Apple Watch
    Apple to Improve Sleep Monitoring Capabilities on Apple Watch

    For several years, Apple has provided Apple Watch users with a sleep tracking feature. By activating the Sleep Focus mode, the device monitors your sleep data, such as sleep stages, heart rate, and respiratory rate. However, for many, this information isn’t particularly helpful, as the most they may receive is “You achieved your sleep goal,” or they may find they’re not meeting the necessary amount of sleep. With watchOS 11, Apple launched the Vitals app, offering a more user-friendly way to interpret this data and even integrate it with Training Loads.

    Nonetheless, the company has remained quite cautious with this feature, only indicating whether your metrics fall below, exceed, or align with your usual patterns based on the previous week. However, watchOS 26 could bring changes, as the latest beta disclosed that Apple is developing a core sleep feature for Apple Watch users.

    The Apple Watch may introduce a sleep score feature. Code discovered in iOS 26 by MacRumors reveals that the Health app includes a reference to an Apple Watch displaying an “84,” alongside three bars that may signify time awake, REM sleep, and core or deep sleep. While this code also contains several other icons associated with Sleep mode, the publication identified the name of this image as “Watch Focus Score.” Currently, it remains uncertain whether Apple intends to unveil this functionality with watchOS 26 this fall or if it could be part of an update in watchOS 26.1 or later.

    In contrast to previous years, Apple is concentrating on announcing features intended for launch alongside the initial official release of its software. Given this focus, we remain unsure of what the company may be concealing for iOS 26.1 and subsequent versions. However, for those seeking a compelling reason to wear their Apple Watch while sleeping, Gentler Streak is worth trying. BGR’s favorite app, Gentler Streak utilizes your sleep data to gauge your readiness for the upcoming day and assesses how exercise might affect your body (whether you should pursue a more strenuous workout or opt for rest).

    This new Sleep Score feature could potentially improve further depending on the sensors Apple plans to enhance or introduce in the Apple Watch Series 11, although the much-speculated Apple Ring would be the ideal Apple sleep tracker. Unfortunately, there are no indications that Apple has any intentions to launch a smart ring in the foreseeable future.

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    • Comments Off on AppleCare+ Pricing Information for iPad and Apple Watch Theft and Loss Protection Unveiled
    AppleCare+ Pricing Information for iPad and Apple Watch Theft and Loss Protection Unveiled

    the recently introduced AppleCare One subscription revealed by Apple on Wednesday also includes an extension of AppleCare+ Theft and Loss coverage for users of iPad and Apple Watch. With this updated plan, should you leave your iPad at a cafeteria or forget your Apple Watch in a hotel, you are able to utilize the AppleCare+ coverage to obtain a new device.

    The newly added AppleCare+ Theft and Loss coverage is offered for all iPad and Apple Watch models that Apple currently provides. The coverage is available in both monthly and annual subscription options, with pricing determined by the specific device. Below are the costs for AppleCare+ Theft and Loss for Apple Watch:

    • Apple Watch SE: $2.99/month or $29.99/year
    • Apple Watch Series 10: $4.99/month or $49.99/year
    • Apple Watch Ultra: $5.99/month or $59.99/year
    • Apple Watch Series 10 Hermes: $5.99/month or $59.99/year
    • Apple Watch Ultra Hermes: $5.99/month or $59.99/year

    Here are the prices for AppleCare+ Theft and Loss for iPad:

    • iPad: $4.99/month or $49.99/year
    • iPad mini: $4.99/month or $49.99/year
    • iPad Air 11″: $5.99/month or $59.99/year
    • iPad Air 13″: $6.99/month or $69.99/year
    • iPad Pro 11″: $9.99/month or $99.99/year
    • iPad Pro 13″: $10.99/month or $109.99/year

    It’s essential to remember that there is also a charge for obtaining a replacement — $119 for a new Apple Watch and $129 for a new iPad.

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    • Comments Off on Automaker Verifies Absence of Intent to Endorse Apple’s CarPlay Ultra
    Automaker Verifies Absence of Intent to Endorse Apple’s CarPlay Ultra

    **CarPlay Ultra: A New Chapter of Integration and BMW’s Position**

    After a considerable wait, CarPlay Ultra was released a few months back, providing the much-awaited enhanced integration between the iPhone and automotive systems that was promised during WWDC 2022. This innovative feature seeks to improve the user experience by enabling a more profound connectivity and functionality between Apple devices and cars.

    Although Apple initially formed partnerships with various automakers to endorse CarPlay Ultra, some manufacturers have since chosen to withdraw. Particularly, BMW has reiterated its choice to abstain from integrating with CarPlay Ultra.

    ### BMW’s Dedication to iDrive

    In a recent communication to BMW Blog, a representative from BMW AG stated, “BMW currently has no plans to incorporate Apple CarPlay Ultra.” Instead, the German manufacturer is concentrating on its own system, iDrive, which has received a substantial overhaul announced earlier this year at CES. The redesigned iDrive system is anticipated to launch with the iX3 model, with intentions for a wider introduction across all Neue Klasse vehicles.

    Although these new models will still support standard CarPlay functionality, BMW is reducing its integration. The application of CarPlay will be restricted to the central display, rather than extending to additional surfaces like the panoramic or heads-up displays, which were part of the initial vision for CarPlay Ultra.

    ### The Change in Automaker Support

    BMW’s decision underscores a broader trend within the automotive sector concerning CarPlay Ultra. Since its introduction, around 20 brands, such as Fiat, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, and Volkswagen, have either declared their intention to bypass the feature or have not committed to endorsing it. This shift raises concerns about the future of CarPlay Ultra and its potential influence on user experiences in vehicles.

    For those curious about the current status of CarPlay Ultra alliances, a complete list of confirmed automakers is available online, featuring three new partners revealed last May.

    ### Conclusion

    As CarPlay Ultra progresses, the decisions made by key automakers like BMW will significantly influence its adoption and capabilities. While the incorporation of Apple’s technology into cars offers exciting prospects, the reluctance of certain manufacturers may impede its widespread acceptance.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on AI Agent Unintentionally Erases Complete Database Owing to Fright
    AI Agent Unintentionally Erases Complete Database Owing to Fright

    As reported in posts on X, Lemkin attempted to access his project on the ninth day of a database coding initiative and discovered that Replit had entirely erased his database, including the production database. Therefore, while some may worry about AI seizing control over humanity, such errors illustrate that it still has a considerable journey ahead before global domination becomes an issue.

    Any tool can encounter malfunctions

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/ai-vibe-coding-agent-deleted-an-entire-database-because-it-panicked/any-tool-can-experience-glitches-175330344

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Arcade Provides Complimentary Trial During Exclusive Crossover Event
    Apple Arcade Provides Complimentary Trial During Exclusive Crossover Event

    ### Apple Arcade: An Opportunity to Play for Free

    If you haven’t experienced [Apple Arcade](https://apps.apple.com/arcade/subscribe?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_subscribe) yet, now is your moment. Halfbrick Studios is offering a limited quantity of 2-month free trials for Apple’s ad-free gaming service, but availability is restricted. Here’s how you can secure yours.

    #### Bluey Meets Fruit Ninja

    Among the most legendary iOS games ever, Fruit Ninja, features prominently in [Apple Arcade](https://apps.apple.com/arcade/subscribe?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_subscribe) with an ad-free version named [Fruit Ninja Classic+](https://apple.co/4lCJXG9). At present, there’s a Bluey [crossover event](https://www.bluey.tv/blog/bluey-is-taking-over-fruit-ninja/) taking place until September 19:

    > “The Bluey event introduces four exciting activities – Featherwand, Sticky Gecko, Asparagus, and Fruit Salad – being released from June through August. Whether you’re engaging with Bingo and her Featherwand or aiding Bluey in catching Gecky off the ceiling, each activity offers plenty of thrills and special rewards for players of every age.”

    To support the [event](https://www.halfbrick.com/applearcade/bluey-x-fruit-ninja-classic-apple-arcade-promotion), Halfbrick is providing up to 2 months of [Apple Arcade](https://apps.apple.com/arcade/subscribe?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_subscribe) for free. This offer is accessible to users in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, the U.S., and the U.K.

    Simply navigate to [Halfbrick’s special page](https://www.halfbrick.com/applearcade/bluey-x-fruit-ninja-classic-apple-arcade-promotion), enter your name and email, and you should receive a code within 10 to 15 minutes. If you’ve previously subscribed to Apple Arcade, you will still receive 1 complimentary month instead of 2.

    Apple Arcade

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How the Galaxy S26 Edge Might Tackle the iPhone 17 Air’s Significant Challenge
    How the Galaxy S26 Edge Might Tackle the iPhone 17 Air’s Significant Challenge

    iPhone 17 series is expected to introduce Apple’s inaugural ultra-slim iPhone model, a device we’re referring to as the iPhone 17 Air. Leaks suggest that this phone will be just 5.5 mm in thickness, making it slimmer than Samsung’s newly launched Galaxy S25 Edge, which is 5.8 mm.

    Apple is likely to make several trade-offs to produce an ultra-thin iPhone 17 this year. This includes reducing the number of camera lenses to one on the rear, eliminating the physical SIM tray in favor of eSIM functionality, and incorporating a significantly smaller battery pack within the iPhone 17 Air compared to its counterparts. While these drawbacks are not all confirmed, the battery size reduction seems plausible. Many iPhone customers eager to buy an ultra-thin model are already concerned about battery performance.

    Recent information from China suggests that the iPhone 17 Air will be equipped with a 2,800 mAh battery, which is considerably less than the Galaxy S25 Edge’s 3,900 mAh battery. Apple will need to take measures to ensure the device still provides satisfactory battery life. The Air will include more efficient components than the iPhone 16 series, and Apple plans to utilize AI capabilities in iOS 26 to minimize battery consumption. We will need to wait for practical evaluations to determine the battery longevity of the iPhone 17 Air, but concerns regarding battery life are justified for this design.

    Nonetheless, major battery enhancements might be on the horizon if a prominent Samsung insider’s claims are accurate. As per @UniverseIce on X, the Galaxy S26 Edge will feature an even slimmer design alongside a new battery technology.

    Concerns about battery life for Galaxy S26 Edge and iPhone 17 Air

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/1920293/galaxy-s26-edge-vs-iphone-17-air-b

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 16 Brings Improved Functionality in Messages to Address Phishing Scams
    iOS 16 Brings Improved Functionality in Messages to Address Phishing Scams

    ### Improvements in iOS 26 Messages Application: Emphasis on Phishing Defense

    Phishing schemes remain a considerable risk to users, especially those who may lack technological knowledge. Acknowledging this weakness, Apple has rolled out remarkable features in the Messages application with the launch of iOS 26, designed to bolster user protection against such threats.

    #### New Message Organization

    The Messages application now divides discussions into four unique categories: Messages, Unknown Senders, Spam, and Recently Deleted. This classification is available via a filter button situated in the upper right corner of the application.

    – **Messages**: This category encompasses standard chats with known contacts, along with significant alerts such as verification codes and booking confirmations.
    – **Unknown Senders**: This filter holds messages from contacts not stored in the user’s address book, and these messages do not activate notifications.
    – **Spam**: This folder includes messages marked as likely spam, also devoid of notifications.
    – **Recently Deleted**: A section for messages that have been erased but remain recoverable.

    Users can independently manage filtering for Unknown Senders and Spam through the ‘Manage Filtering’ feature.

    #### Enhanced Safety Features Against Phishing

    Apple has established two essential limitations for messages classified as Spam, significantly minimizing the chance of succumbing to phishing efforts:

    1. **Disabled Links**: Any hyperlinks or phone numbers within spam messages are rendered non-tappable. This feature blocks users from unintentionally visiting harmful websites or calling fraudulent numbers with a simple tap.

    2. **No Replies Permitted**: Users are unable to respond to messages in the Spam folder, dissuading interaction with potential scammers. While users can transfer messages back to the main view, this additional step creates a barrier that may aid in preventing inadvertent engagement.

    #### Additional Features in iOS 26 Messages

    Aside from phishing defense, the Messages application in iOS 26 brings several new capabilities:

    – **Polls**: Users can initiate polls within discussions, with Apple Intelligence providing suggestions based on the chat’s context.
    – **Typing Indicators**: Group conversations now include typing indicators, improving the communication experience.
    – **Custom Chat Backgrounds**: Users have the option to customize their chat backgrounds by choosing images from their photo library or creating new ones using the Image Playground feature.

    ### Conclusion

    The enhancements in the iOS 26 Messages application demonstrate Apple’s dedication to user protection, particularly in the fight against phishing schemes. By organizing messages and enforcing limitations on spam communications, Apple seeks to establish a more secure messaging landscape for all users, regardless of their technical proficiency.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on New Updates in iOS 26 Beta 4: A Sneak Peek Ahead of the Initial Public Beta
    New Updates in iOS 26 Beta 4: A Sneak Peek Ahead of the Initial Public Beta

    With the launch of iOS 26 beta 4, Apple persists in implementing significant modifications to its upcoming software upgrade. As we approach the release of the first iOS 26 public beta, the company aims to ensure that users enjoy the experience it has planned for the most crucial iOS update since iOS 7.

    That said, there are several key alterations in iOS 26 beta 4, alongside the usual bug fixes, general stability enhancements, and battery optimizations. Following multiple bugs in iOS 18 and the prolonged rollout of Apple Intelligence features during the last update cycle, it’s natural for the company to strive for iOS 26 to be as refined and comprehensive as possible.

    With an official launch still anticipated later this autumn, here are the crucial updates Apple has introduced in iOS 26 developer beta 4, and what iPhone users can expect when they experience the public beta upon its eventual release.

    Liquid Glass enhancements: Apple has continued its exploration of Liquid Glass in the latest beta. Now, the menu bars in the company’s default apps exhibit increased transparency. To enhance readability, the Lock Screen becomes darker whenever a notification is received. It remains uncertain if this will be Apple’s final major adjustment to the aesthetic of Liquid Glass.

    Notification Summaries: Apple is reinstating the contentious Notification Summaries feature. Still in beta, the company eliminated it in January due to inaccuracies in summarizing headlines. Now, if you opt to summarize news, Apple cautions that the feature “may alter the meaning of the original headlines” and advises users to verify the information.

    Call Screening: The Screen Unknown Callers feature now provides additional options, including the ability to deactivate it, inquire unknown callers about their reason for calling, mute unknown numbers, or redirect unknown callers to voicemail.

    Dynamic wallpapers: The new wallpapers in iOS 26 are now dynamic and shift colors throughout the day, enhancing their vibrancy.

    Overall adjustments: iOS 26 beta 4 also brings a variety of other modifications to the software, including updated Camera and Mail app icons, a new action for sliding back and forth in the Camera app, and several changes in the Settings app.

    BGR will continue to report on the latest features of iOS 26 as we uncover more details.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on tvOS 26 May Address Significant Problems for Apple TV 4K
    tvOS 26 May Address Significant Problems for Apple TV 4K

    **tvOS 26: Transforming the Streaming Landscape on Apple TV 4K**

    Linear television is witnessing a swift decline, a trend anticipated by Tim Cook when he remarked that the future of TV resides in applications. Nonetheless, Apple TV applications have encountered a major obstacle: the tedious process of logging into streaming accounts. With the launch of tvOS 26, Apple seeks to enhance this experience for Apple TV 4K users.

    ### The Hurdle of Adapting to Streaming Applications

    For individuals who are used to traditional linear TV, adapting to an Apple TV 4K outfitted with streaming applications can prove to be challenging. The necessity to manage several accounts, applications, and credentials, combined with the difficulty of inputting this information using a TV remote, results in a frustrating experience even for those well-versed in technology.

    Over the years, tvOS has introduced a variety of features to mitigate these challenges. Users are now able to leverage a nearby iPhone’s keyboard for simplified text entry and authenticate purchases through other Apple gadgets. Furthermore, the Channels initiative within the Apple TV app was designed to make streaming easier but encountered obstacles in forming partnerships with key content distributors.

    ### Automatic Sign-In: A Revolutionary Advancement

    tvOS 26 unveils a major innovation: the Automatic Sign-In API. This new capability is set to transform how users engage with streaming applications on Apple devices. Once a streaming application incorporates this API, users will only need to log in a single time on any Apple device to gain access across all devices, including the Apple TV 4K.

    The Automatic Sign-In API allows users to log into their preferred streaming applications, such as Netflix and Disney+, on one device, removing the necessity to repeatedly input usernames and passwords. This seamless integration fosters a more streamlined and enjoyable streaming experience.

    ### Advantages for Users and Streaming Providers

    The implementation of the Automatic Sign-In API by leading streaming services could greatly boost user interaction. By simplifying the login process, users are more inclined to access content across their devices, resulting in heightened viewership and engagement with the platforms.

    While there is no assurance that all third-party applications will embrace this new API, the benefits it presents for both users and streaming services are significant. As engagement remains a primary objective for streaming platforms, the accessibility provided by tvOS 26 could signify a turning point in how users engage with their favorite content.

    ### Conclusion

    With tvOS 26, Apple is tackling one of the most prominent pain points for Apple TV 4K users: the cumbersome process of logging into streaming applications. As the industry progresses towards app-centric viewing, the Automatic Sign-In feature could lead to a more user-friendly and engaging streaming atmosphere. As users anticipate this update, they might soon discover that the era of repetitive logins is behind them, heralding a new age of effortless streaming.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Launch Date: Coming Soon Insights for the Latest iPhone Update
    iOS 26 Launch Date: Coming Soon Insights for the Latest iPhone Update

    Apple’s forthcoming significant iPhone update, iOS 26, is anticipated to unveil a Liquid Glass makeover alongside a multitude of innovative features. While beta testers currently engage with iOS 26, the public rollout is forecasted for this autumn, probably around mid-September.

    ### iOS 26 Set to Debut This Autumn, Probably in Mid-September

    Apple has verified that iOS 26 will be launched for all users this autumn. Examining previous release trends offers a clearer indication of when to expect the debut. The last three major iOS versions were launched as follows:

    – **iOS 18**: Monday, September 16, 2024
    – **iOS 17**: Monday, September 18, 2023
    – **iOS 16**: Monday, September 12, 2022

    All these launches took place within a week of Apple’s significant iPhone event, which generally occurs in early September. Following this pattern, iOS 26 is projected to be available to users shortly after the reveal of the iPhone 17 series, with mid-September being the probable timeframe for the official launch.

    Users with compatible iPhones will be able to download iOS 26 and enjoy the new Liquid Glass design, along with important updates to the Messages app, Apple Music, Wallet, CarPlay, and more.

    ### Public Beta for iOS 26 Set to Release This Month

    For those excited to experience iOS 26 ahead of its official launch, Apple will offer a public beta version. This public beta is expected to be released before the end of July and will be open to anyone willing to sign up at beta.apple.com.

    Apple generally releases the public beta in mid-July, but this year has experienced a slight postponement. Following the recent launch of beta 4 for developers, the public beta is expected to be available shortly. As with any pre-release software, users should be mindful that the public beta might have bugs and performance hiccups.

    Engaging in the public beta allows users to access iOS 26’s new features early, while also providing Apple with essential feedback to refine the final version.

    In conclusion, iOS 26 promises to deliver thrilling enhancements to iPhone users, with a public beta on the horizon and a full release predicted for mid-September.

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