Author: sparta

iOS 26.2 Brings Fresh Functionalities to Six iPhone Apps: Future Improvements Detailed

iOS 26.2 is set to be released soon, bringing along a variety of new features. Many of these enhancements pertain to Apple’s native iPhone applications. Here’s a rundown of all the new additions across six Apple apps in iOS 26.2.

## Reminders

Reminders began as a basic list app, but through years of enhancements, Apple has transformed it into a comprehensive task manager. iOS 26.2 introduces a new option for users to flag a reminder as ‘Urgent’ when it has a specified due time. Designating it as ‘urgent’ triggers an alarm on your iPhone when that reminder reaches its due time. This new alarm can be snoozed for 9 minutes, allowing users to temporarily silence the alarm without losing track of the task. Furthermore, it utilizes Live Activities for a visual cue to assist users in recalling their tasks.

## Apple Podcasts

Apple Podcasts is among the numerous popular podcast applications available on iPhone. In iOS 26.2, three new features enhance the appeal of Apple’s Podcasts app:
1. Automatic chapters
2. Podcast mentions
3. ’From this episode’

Automatic chapters leverage podcast transcripts to automatically generate chapters for all podcasts, improving user experience. The additional features facilitate easier access to links for other podcast episodes referenced by hosts, along with recommendations for TV shows, music, books, and more.

## Freeform

Freeform is enhanced with a robust new feature in iOS 26.2: table support. Freeform serves as Apple’s open canvas whiteboard/playground app where users can craft ‘boards’ filled with text, images, charts, files, links, and more. The integration of tables broadens its functionality, simplifying the visual organization of information.

## Apple Games

Apple Games is a newly introduced app that debuted in iOS 26. With user feedback considered, Apple has rolled out three improvements in iOS 26.2:
1. Library Filters: Sort your game library by titles that present challenges or those your friends are engaging with.
2. Controller Support: Enhanced navigation using Bluetooth controllers for dedicated gaming.
3. Real-time challenge updates: Challenge scores will now remain up-to-date in real-time during gameplay, thanks to live updates.

These modifications are designed to elevate the overall gaming experience for users.

## Apple Music

Apple Music enjoys a beneficial update in iOS 26.2 with the addition of offline lyrics support. This feature enables users to view lyrics even when there is no internet connection, making it practical for users in various scenarios, such as during flights or in remote locations.

## Apple News

Apple News features multiple updates in iOS 26.2 aimed at streamlining access to the app’s growing array of features. The update includes design modifications that bring previously less visible features to the forefront. New quick links at the top of the Today screen provide easy access to sections like Puzzles, Sports, Politics, and Food. Moreover, the navigation tab bar has been refreshed to improve the user experience.

Which new features of iOS 26.2 are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Black Friday Week Sales: Enjoy a $149 discount on AirPods Max, $230 off M5 MacBook Pro, Series 11, Official Cables from $5, and additional offers

### Black Friday Week Offers: Unmatched Savings on Apple Products and More

As Black Friday nears, consumers are met with an extraordinary influx of deals that have kick-started early. This year, pre-event discounts aren’t merely an introduction to the main spectacle; they are noteworthy and diverse, especially in the category of Apple products.

#### Amazing Savings on AirPods

Among the highlighted offers are the AirPods, which have experienced considerable price reductions. The AirPods Pro 3 are now priced at just **$220**, while the AirPods 4 can be acquired for **$69**. For those interested in the AirPods 4 featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), the cost is set at **$100**. Furthermore, the AirPods Max have also seen a price decrease, currently available for **$399.99**, reflecting a **$149** reduction from the original retail price. This offer is one of the best we’ve recorded, presenting a fantastic chance for those eager to purchase premium audio gear.

#### M5 MacBook Pro: Unmatched Price Cuts

The M5 MacBook Pro collection is also benefiting from extraordinary discounts this Black Friday. Amazon has reduced **$200 off** all models, with the 24GB RAM version now at **$1,799**. However, B&H is providing an even more favorable deal on the 24GB/512GB variant for **$1,569**, a **$230** discount, establishing it as the best available price online for this specification. This is a significant opportunity for anyone seeking a robust laptop.

#### Apple Watch Series 11: Prices Heading Lower

The Apple Watch Series 11 has experienced a price decline across almost all models and configurations. Starting from **$339**, these watches are now more affordable than ever. The price reductions have impacted various case colors and sizes, with discounts reaching up to **$60** off the original prices. This encompasses both GPS-only and GPS + Cellular variations, making it an ideal time to acquire a smartwatch.

#### Featured Roborock and Aqara Offers

Beyond Apple products, Roborock is providing major discounts on its robotic vacuums, with savings of up to **$1,300** on leading models. Likewise, Aqara smart home devices are discounted by up to **48%**, making it a wonderful time to upgrade your home automation system.

#### iPhone 16 Offers: Unlocked and Budget-Friendly

Black Friday has also introduced noteworthy deals on the iPhone 16, with prices beginning at **$588** and discounts up to **$130** on several models. The Pro variants are experiencing even greater reductions, with savings reaching up to **$800**. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone aiming to upgrade their smartphones.

#### Accessories and More Offers

The accessory landscape is not overlooked, with various promotions on iPhone cases, charging stations, and other gadgets. Brands such as TORRAS and Anker are offering reductions of up to **60%**, in addition to free gifts on select orders.

### Conclusion

This Black Friday Week is set to be one of the most rewarding for tech lovers and casual shoppers alike. With considerable discounts across a broad array of products, particularly from Apple, it’s an opportune moment to seize these offers before they vanish. Whether you’re on the hunt for audio equipment, a new laptop, or smart home devices, the choices are abundant, and the savings are significant.

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Anticipated Launch of Popular Apple TV Suspense Show Stars Idris Elba Addressing Feedback in Fresh Video

**Idris Elba Featured in Apple TV’s Popular Thriller “Hijack”**

Idris Elba is set to reprise his role as the protagonist in the celebrated Apple TV thriller “Hijack,” with a new season approaching its premiere. The series has attracted considerable interest since its launch in 2023, engaging viewers with its distinctive real-time narrative format, wherein the story progresses alongside actual time.

**Synopsis of “Hijack”**

The inaugural season of “Hijack” has received accolades, noted for its gripping storyline and Elba’s captivating portrayal. The show depicts a high-stakes hijacking of a commercial airline, merging tension with detailed character exploration. As the plot unfolds, audiences are immersed in the psychological and emotional challenges encountered by the passengers and crew.

**Forthcoming Season and Marketing Material**

In advance of the eagerly awaited second season, slated to debut on January 14, Apple has shared a light-hearted clip featuring Idris Elba. In this clip, Elba amusingly critiques various reviews of the first season, offering fans a delightful glimpse into the series’ reception and his reflections on the feedback.

**Watch-Worthy Suggestions**

For those wishing to familiarize themselves before the new season, the entire first season of “Hijack” is accessible for streaming on Apple TV. Moreover, viewers interested in more exhilarating content can check out other series on the platform, such as “The Last Frontier,” which chronicles a U.S. Marshal on a quest to capture dangerous fugitives, and “Down Cemetery Road,” with Emma Thompson portraying a detective inspired by a novel by Mick Herron.

**Subscription Details**

Apple TV is currently providing a promotional subscription price of $5.99 monthly, granting access to a wide array of popular shows and movies, including hits like “Ted Lasso” and “Severance.” Fans can also choose the Apple One bundle for extra services.

As excitement mounts for the comeback of “Hijack,” viewers are encouraged to share their opinions and critiques, promoting a community of fans eager to discuss the thrilling developments of the series.

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TerraMaster’s Ultimate M.2 SSD Enclosure Now Offered at Cyber Monday Savings

The TerraMaster D4 SSD serves as a multifunctional SSD enclosure that can accommodate up to four 8TB M.2 2280 drives, delivering a total storage capability of 32TB. Featuring a 40Gbps bandwidth, it enables rapid data transfer, positioning itself as a perfect choice for enhancing the storage of Windows or macOS laptops. The D4 SSD connects through USB-C and is compatible with multiple USB standards, such as USB 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, USB 4, and Thunderbolt 3/4/5, ensuring it works seamlessly with a variety of devices.

While the D4 SSD necessitates external power and lacks portability, it shines in offering solid storage options for fixed setups. It boasts an active cooling system with a built-in fan, which guarantees effective heat management while in use. This enclosure is especially ideal for users who require fast external storage for activities such as video editing, where swift data transfer is essential.

At present, the D4 SSD is offered at a reduced price of $239, down from its regular price of $299, making it a compelling choice for those in search of a high-capacity, high-performance SSD enclosure.

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M5 iPad Pro Evaluation: Examining Its Future-Proof Features After a Month of Usage

### Apple’s M5 iPad Pro: A Month of Impressions

Apple’s M5 iPad Pro was released last month, and I transitioned from an M4 iPad Pro. My initial impressions of the updated model were favorable, but here’s how my 13-inch M5 iPad Pro has performed after a complete month of usage.

#### M5 iPad Pro: The Minor Details Count

Examining a side-by-side comparison of the M5 iPad Pro versus the M4 model, the improvements might appear somewhat minor. There’s no significant external redesign, and not many flashy enhancements apart from the M5 chip. However, after a month with my 13-inch model, I’ve discovered that all the smaller tweaks indeed accumulate.

Here’s a comprehensive list of what’s genuinely new:
1. M5 chip
2. Enhanced RAM, and increased capacity
3. C1X 5G modem
4. N1 wireless chip
5. Rapid charging
6. Cellular battery improvements
7. 120Hz support for external displays

Nothing in this list echoes a “must have,” particularly if you already possess an M4 model. But as someone who relies on the M5 iPad Pro for work day in and day out, I’ve been quite pleasantly surprised by the upgraded model.

#### New M5 and C1X Chips Deliver Performance and Efficiency Boosts

Apple incorporated its new C1X modem into the iPad Pro, which has provided stellar performance thus far. I usually work on cellular for hours each day, and while I haven’t conducted formal assessments, my cellular connectivity has been better than ever. While I had no issues with the M4 model, the M5 connection has proven even more dependable for me.

I’ve also significantly noticed improvements in battery life due to C1X’s enhanced efficiency. While part of the enhancement can be attributed to having a new battery, I am convinced that it does not explain all the gains I’m experiencing. The M5 iPad Pro’s battery life has been a considerable enhancement for my particular usage.

Although Apple doesn’t officially promote increased battery life on the M5 iPad Pro’s specifications page, its announcement press release states that C1X provides active cellular users “up to 30 percent less power consumption than the iPad Pro with M4.”

In addition to C1X, the new M5 chip and RAM enhancements have certainly made iPadOS 26 feel more responsive and fluid than before. The stutters and performance lags I occasionally faced on my M4 have vanished. This iPad feels better optimized for Apple’s iPadOS updates compared to last year’s model.

Lastly, I’d like to highlight fast charging as another appreciated enhancement. Even though battery life has been significantly less of a concern than on my M4 model, the M5 iPad Pro’s fast charging capability has been advantageous during many brief moments when I was home before heading back out to work remotely.

#### Future Ready, But Not Like Previous iPad Pro Models

A recurring theme in reviews of earlier iPad Pro models was that the hardware outpaced the software, rendering it “future proof.” This description applies to the M5 iPad Pro as well, though in a more positive and distinct manner. iPadOS 26 finally aligns with the power of the iPad Pro’s hardware, and forthcoming updates will elevate things even further.

For the first time, the iPad Pro hardware and software are in perfect harmony. The new M5 chip, RAM enhancements, and cutting-edge C1X and N1 chips also position the M5 iPad Pro for a promising future. Regardless of what new features and upgrades Apple plans for iPadOS, this iPad is prepared for them. It possesses computing capacity that prior models arguably lack with the latest OS.

If you’re transitioning from an older iPad, the M5 iPad Pro is an excellent upgrade. If you already have the M4, you might want to skip the M5 to maximize value from your current model. However, for my specific requirements, the M5 iPad Pro has proven to be a surprisingly effective upgrade.

Have you been using the M5 iPad Pro? What’s your assessment of the product? Share your thoughts in the comments.

#### Best iPad Pro Accessories

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iOS 26.1 Brings Subtle Animation Enhancement to Clock Icon

### Apple Revamps Clock App Icon in iOS 26.1

With the launch of iOS 26.1, Apple has unveiled a significant alteration to the Clock app icon, bringing it in closer alignment with the functionality of the Apple Watch. This update signifies a major advancement in how the app icon signifies time on the home screen.

#### Dynamic Clock Icon

Since iOS 7 debuted, the Clock app icon has displayed an animated representation of the current time. This animation features a sweeping seconds hand that moves fluidly, imitating the action of a classic mechanical clock. This functionality has become a hallmark of the Clock app, offering users a lively visual depiction of time.

#### Adjustments in Low Power Mode

In this recent update, Apple has changed the performance of the seconds hand when the device enters low power mode. Rather than the uninterrupted sweeping action, the seconds hand now ticks with each second that passes, resembling the functioning of a quartz clock. This subtle yet ingenious modification improves the user experience by presenting a more authentic representation of time under low power conditions.

#### Parallels with Apple Watch

The design choice mirrors characteristics of the Apple Watch’s functionality. When the watch face is active, the Apple Watch showcases a continuously moving seconds hand. However, in always-on mode, the seconds hand usually becomes inactive. This behavior has progressed with the latest Apple Watch Series 10/11 and Ultra 3, where the seconds hand stays visible even in always-on mode, but it ticks instead of sweeping.

#### User Preference

Numerous users, including several Apple fans, have voiced a preference for the ticking seconds hand rather than the continuous motion. The ticking motion can instill a sense of calmness, rendering it a more appealing choice for those who favor a more serene depiction of time.

#### Conclusion

The updated behavior of the Clock app icon in iOS 26.1 showcases Apple’s enduring dedication to improving user experience. With this enhancement, users can revel in a more polished and considerate portrayal of time on their devices. The modifications are part of a wider array of updates featured in iOS 26.1, which was released earlier this month. Users can investigate these new amenities and appreciate the understated yet considerable changes made to the Clock app icon.

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Orion: A Fresh Mac Browser Focusing on Speed, Privacy, and WebKit Inspired by Apple

**Orion Browser: A Fresh Competitor in the Mac Ecosystem**

The digital realm is in a state of perpetual change, with new web browsers frequently surfacing, often revolving around artificial intelligence. Nevertheless, the Orion browser, crafted by the creators of the Kagi search engine, adopts a unique strategy. Constructed on WebKit, Orion highlights speed and user privacy, focusing mainly on Apple aficionados. Following an extensive beta testing phase, the Orion Mac application has officially debuted, joining its iPhone and iPad siblings.

### Introduction of Orion for Mac

Kagi has revealed the official release of Orion for Mac as a version 1.0 application, available for download from their website. In contrast to many contemporary browsers that significantly emphasize AI features, Orion is committed to providing a swift browsing experience while keeping user privacy a top priority.

### Main Features of Orion

Orion aims to enhance the browsing journey on Apple devices with several distinctive attributes:

– **Focus Mode**: This functionality enables users to convert any website into a distraction-free web app, making it perfect for activities like documentation or writing.

– **Link Preview**: Users can preview content from various applications—such as email or chat—without completely opening a new tab, assisting in maintaining an organized workspace.

– **Mini Toolbar, Overflow Menu, and Page Tweak**: Orion furnishes tools to personalize each page’s look and controls, allowing web experiences to align with user preferences.

– **Profiles as Apps**: Users can establish individual profiles for work, personal, and leisure browsing, each with its own extensions, cookies, and configurations.

The browser is available at no cost, including 200 free Kagi searches without necessitating account registration.

### Subscription Model and Extra Features

Kagi provides an optional subscription service, Orion+, at a cost of $5 per month, which unlocks extra features:

– **Floating Windows**: This feature permits users to keep a video or window on top of other applications.

– **Customization Options**: Users have the ability to program buttons and alter application icons for a tailored experience.

– **Early Access**: Subscribers gain entry to new features exclusive to supporters, currently under development for the upcoming year.

### Prospective Developments

Kagi’s roadmap for Orion entails plans for more profound customization options, improved stability, enhanced performance for complex web applications, new features for Orion+, and tighter integrations with Kagi’s smart tools.

### Final Thoughts

Orion offers a novel alternative in the browser landscape, especially for Apple users in search of speed and privacy. The combination of innovative features and a dedication to user experience positions Orion as a significant competitor among web browsers. Users can download Orion for Mac, iPhone, and iPad from the official website. For additional insights, Kagi’s CEO has shared opinions in an interview on the Apple @ Work podcast, available for listening online.

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Apple challenges potential $38 billion antitrust fine in India

Apple is presently challenging a recently introduced antitrust penalty framework in India that could greatly affect its financial responsibilities. The corporation has initiated a constitutional lawsuit in the Delhi High Court opposing the 2024 regulations that empower the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to determine fines based on a company’s worldwide income rather than its domestic earnings. This legal move stems from an ongoing inquiry that began in 2022, triggered by grievances from Match Group and regional startups, which claim that Apple has exploited its dominant status in the iOS application marketplace.

Reports indicate that the potential penalties could amount to as much as $38 billion, calculated at 10% of Apple’s average worldwide revenue from its services over the three fiscal years leading up to 2024. Apple asserts that this penalty framework is “manifestly arbitrary, unconstitutional, grossly disproportionate, unjust,” and is seeking a declaration that the law is illegal. The company argues that utilizing a global revenue basis for penalties is excessive and does not accurately represent its operations in India.

The CCI has yet to deliver a final decision or impose any fines, but Apple is striving to proactively challenge the updated formula before it is enforced. The case is scheduled to be heard soon, and legal analysts suggest that Apple may encounter challenges in convincing the court to overturn a clearly established legislative policy that allows the CCI to factor in global turnover in its assessments.

Conversely, Match Group endorses the new penalty system, contending that it may act as a considerable deterrent against future infractions by large corporations. The resolution of this case could have extensive ramifications for the manner in which antitrust penalties are evaluated in India and possibly shape global benchmarks for corporate accountability.

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Opera’s AI Browser Unveils ‘1-Minute Deep Research’ Feature and Gemini 3 Pro Integration

Opera has refreshed its AI-driven Neon browser, unveiling a range of new integrations and usability improvements intended to enhance user experience. Here’s a comprehensive summary of the most recent features.

### Neon Do Agent Links Up with Google Docs

Since its debut a few months back, Opera Neon has been steadily developing with advancements to its user experience (UX), user interface (UI), and core technology to stay relevant in the AI browser arena. A key improvement in this release is the connection of the Neon Do agent with Google Docs, a capability that users have often requested.

Opera has rolled out a ‘1-minute Deep Research’ mode as part of the Opera Deep Research Agent (ODRA). This feature allows users to decompose research tasks into smaller parts, enabling several AI researchers to tackle the same query at the same time. This functionality is designed to deliver a swift yet comprehensive answer to user questions without necessitating exhaustive research each time.

### New Features in Neon Chat

The update also features a model selector within Neon Chat, permitting users to pick from various AI models, including Google’s Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana Pro. A significant enhancement is the capability to switch models during a conversation, improving the flexibility and responsiveness of the chat interaction.

### Google Docs Features

The connection with Google Docs enables users to create and modify documents directly via the Neon Do agent. To start a new document, users just need to select the ‘Do’ agent in the browser’s omnibox and outline their request. The agent can also aid in editing current documents by adding or deleting content, and it can search the internet for pertinent information as required. Furthermore, users can ask for adjustments to the document’s title.

### Subscription Information

Opera Neon is accessible through a subscription plan, costing $19.99 per month. Interested individuals can head to the Opera Neon website to join the waitlist for access.

This update establishes Opera Neon as a powerful resource for users looking for an AI-enhanced browsing and document management solution, underscoring the company’s dedication to innovation in the competitive browser landscape.

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9to5Mac Daily: November 26, 2025 – Highlights on macOS Tahoe Corrections and Modifications to Apple News

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly changing realm of technology, keeping up with the most recent news is essential, particularly for Apple fans. The **9to5Mac Daily** podcast acts as a trusted source for daily summaries of noteworthy stories connected to Apple and its ecosystem. 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), this podcast is essential for anyone eager to stay attuned to Apple news.

### Daily Episodes

Fresh episodes of **9to5Mac Daily** are recorded on weekdays, ensuring that listeners receive prompt updates regarding the latest developments in the Apple sphere. The podcast addresses a variety of subjects, including product unveils and software releases, as well as industry trends and behind-the-scenes insights. By subscribing, listeners can ensure that new episodes arrive immediately upon their release.

### Special Offers and Sponsorships

Listeners can benefit from special deals, such as discounts on items from sponsors like **Roborock**, which recently provided up to 50% off on their leading vacuums during a Black Friday sale. These sponsorships not only deliver value to listeners but also bolster the podcast’s production.

### Subscription Benefits

For those wishing to elevate their listening experience, **9to5Mac Daily Plus** provides a subscription alternative. By subscribing, listeners gain access to ad-free episode versions and exclusive bonus content. This premium offering enables devoted fans to savor the podcast without interruptions while obtaining richer insights into the topics covered.

### Community Engagement

The podcast promotes listener interaction through feedback and reviews. Fans can convey their opinions by emailing [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or by rating the podcast on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and

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