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9to5Mac Daily: February 19, 2026 – Summary of New CarPlay Enhancements and Modifications

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

In the rapidly evolving realm of technology, keeping abreast of the latest news and trends is crucial, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily presents a streamlined way to stay updated on the most important stories impacting Apple and its ecosystem. This daily podcast delivers listeners a summary of the top news, insights, and discussions related to Apple products, software updates, and industry changes.

**Podcast Accessibility**

Listeners can enjoy 9to5Mac Daily across a variety of platforms, ensuring they can listen from anywhere. The podcast can be found on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](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)
– [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast players.

New episodes are produced each weekday, allowing subscribers to receive the latest updates as soon as they become available.

**Sponsorship and Promotions**

9to5Mac Daily is backed by various sponsors, including Stuff, which offers a system to help users structure their thoughts and alleviate mental stress. Listeners may utilize the code “9TO5” at checkout for a 50% discount on their first year.

**Subscription Advantages**

For those seeking to elevate their listening experience, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus presents several advantages, such as:

– Ad-free versions of every episode
– Access to exclusive content

This subscription not only supports the podcast but also enhances the listener’s experience with additional insights and discussions.

**Engagement and Input**

Listeners are invited to express their thoughts and feedback. They can connect via email at [email protected] or rate the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Overcast. This engagement contributes to the podcast’s growth and helps reach more Apple enthusiasts.

**Final Thoughts**

9to5Mac Daily distinguishes itself as a trustworthy source for Apple news, offering listeners concise and informative episodes that explore the latest advancements in the tech industry. Whether you’re a loyal Apple user or just curious about technology, this podcast is an essential resource for staying informed.

The Pitt Offers Insightful Perspectives on AI

Each episode of HBO’s The Pitt features some degree of medical trauma that almost makes the hospital drama feel like a horror series. Some patients are dealing with gnarly lacerations while others are fighting off vicious blood infections that could rob them of their limbs, and the chaos of working in an emergency room often […]

Reimagining of George A. Romero’s Cult Classic ’70s Horror Film Exceeds the Original

reimagined by Zack Snyder. In addition to establishing the benchmark for pivotal zombie films, other directors have followed in his staggering wake, offering their interpretations that have proven successful in their own respects. Nevertheless, there’s one film in Romero’s filmography from 1973 that didn’t maintain quite the same acclaim as his other works, yet received a remarkable revival in 2010.

“The Crazies” was a low-budget horror film focused on another deadly virus that, instead of resurrecting the deceased as seen in other zombie pictures, transformed those who contracted the virus into murderous fiends. Lacking the level of focus and innovative influence that his other movies possessed, director Breck Eisner recognized sufficient potential in Romero’s underestimated film to develop a remake of his own, and the result remains a chilling experience more than a decade later. It also proved to be an excellent launching pad for an emerging talent.

The Crazies is an overlooked horror remake

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Android 17 Beta 1 Brings Subtle but Helpful Pixel Launcher UI Improvements

Pixel users can now take advantage of improved customization features with the new Android 17 beta 1 update. This update brings subtle yet impactful adjustments to the Pixel Launcher, enabling users to personalize their home screen like never before.

A major update is the capability to modify the search bar shortcut. In the past, the search bar had thick colored edges, but Android 17 has shifted back to a sleeker design that echoes earlier styles. The search bar shortcut, which now sits within the search bar, can be customized. Users have the option to replace the default AI Mode shortcut with alternatives like Gemini Live, Translate, Song Search, Weather, and Dictionary, among others. This adaptability allows users to configure their search bar to better meet their preferences.

Furthermore, Pixel users can now eliminate the At a Glance widget from their home screens. This option, which was previously trialed with a limited group in the Android 16 QPR3 betas, is now broadly accessible. Users can remove the widget by long-pressing it and choosing the remove option in the Pixel Launcher settings.

Additional minor UI adjustments include an updated brightness icon in Quick Settings and more straightforward access to volume panel settings. While these modifications are subtle, they enhance a more efficient and user-friendly interface.

In conclusion, these updates provide Pixel users with increased control over their home screen design and functionality, elevating the overall user experience.

Active Promotions: $250 Discount on AirTag 2, M4 MacBook Air (32GB/1TB), M5 MacBook Pro, and 46% Savings on Thunderbolt Pro Cable

**Amazon Offers After Presidents Day: An Overview of Current Savings on Apple Products**

As Presidents Day becomes a memory, Amazon maintains impressive markdowns on a range of Apple products. Shoppers can discover discounts on sought-after items like AirPods, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models, as well as on accessories like Thunderbolt cables and charging stations.

### AirPods Pro 3 Price Reduction

A prominent deal features a price reduction on the AirPods Pro 3, which can now be purchased for merely $10 above their holiday low. This represents a fantastic opportunity for anyone aiming to acquire premium wireless earbuds.

### Prime Offer on AirTag 2

Amazon is presently providing one of the finest prices on the original AirTag 4-pack, now selling for $64, reflecting a 35% discount from the original price. There’s also the option to save on the latest AirTag 2, with a 4-pack priced at Best Buy for $87.99, yielding nearly 15% savings against its list price of $99.

### Uncommon Discounts on MacBook Models

For those seeking a new laptop, there are remarkable discounts on MacBook models. The 32GB M4 MacBook Air with 1TB storage is now $250 off, bringing the cost down to $1,549. This model is especially attractive for individuals requiring a robust machine with substantial storage.

Similarly, the 24GB M5 MacBook Pro is offered with a $250 discount, priced at $1,549. This model strikes a balance between performance and cost, making it an excellent selection for both professionals and students.

### Apple Thunderbolt Pro Cable Savings

In accessory deals, the black braided Thunderbolt Pro Cable from Apple is reduced to $37, a 46% discount from its regular price of $69. This cable allows for high-speed data transfer and charging, making it an essential addition to any tech ensemble.

### Anker 25W Foldable 3-in-1 Charger

Anker’s latest 25W foldable 3-in-1 charging station is also discounted, now offered at $119.99. This adaptable charger is suitable for travel and desktop use, featuring a compact design that supports multiple devices, including iPhones and Apple Watches.

### Conclusion

With these continuing discounts, Amazon presents a fantastic chance for consumers to save on popular Apple products and accessories. Whether you’re in the market for earbuds, laptops, or charging options, numerous choices are available at reduced prices.

Apple Accelerates Advancement of Three Innovative AI Wearable Gadgets, As Per Report

According to a recent report from Bloomberg, Apple is “expediting” its work on three upcoming wearable devices, which include smart glasses, an AI pendant, and AirPods with cameras. These devices are being developed with the Siri digital assistant in mind.

### AI Pendant, Glasses, and Camera-Equipped AirPods

The smart glasses are anticipated to come with a high-resolution camera for taking photos and videos, aimed at rivaling Meta’s smart glasses. Apple has allegedly made notable strides in the development of these glasses recently. Importantly, the glasses will lack a display and will instead feature speakers, microphones, and cameras.

Prototypes of the glasses are equipped with two camera lenses: one for capturing high-resolution visuals and another for “computer vision” to offer contextual information about the environment. This contextual awareness could improve functionalities akin to Visual Intelligence on the iPhone, facilitating more accurate navigation within Apple Maps and better integration with Reminders. The objective is for the glasses to function as a continuous AI companion, capable of comprehending a user’s environment and actions in real-time.

Apple is creating its own frames for the glasses in a variety of sizes and colors, choosing to handle the design internally after evaluating collaborations with other firms. Initial prototypes connected via a cable to a separate battery pack and an iPhone, but recent iterations have incorporated components into the frame, utilizing high-quality materials for a luxurious feel. Apple is also contemplating releasing the device in additional styles over time.

Furthermore, Apple is developing an AI pendant device described as a thin, circular disc made of aluminum and glass, which includes two cameras, a speaker, and three microphones. This device is thought to be reminiscent of the unsuccessful Humane AI pin but will not feature a display or projection system. Instead, it will depend heavily on an iPhone for processing power.

The AI pendant is intended to function as a constant camera for the smartphone, complete with a microphone for Siri commands. Some Apple staff refer to it as the “eyes and ears” of the phone. There is ongoing discussion about the possibility of incorporating a speaker for direct dialogue with the device, allowing users to interact without having to reach for their iPhone or wear AirPods.

Apple envisions that users will wear the AI pin clipped to their attire or as a necklace. Nevertheless, the product is still in the early phases of development and might ultimately be canceled, although there are prospects for a launch as soon as next year.

Finally, Apple is also advancing its efforts on AirPods equipped with cameras, which may be introduced as early as this year.

### Conclusion

Apple’s venture into wearable technology with smart glasses, an AI pendant, and camera-equipped AirPods marks a significant effort to augment user engagement through AI and contextual awareness. While the smart glasses seem promising, the practicality of the AI pendant remains in question. The success of these products will significantly hinge on improvements in Siri’s capabilities and seamless incorporation within Apple’s ecosystem.

iPadOS 26.4 Public Beta Launched: Summary of New Features

# iPadOS 26.4 Public Beta: Installation Instructions and Overview of New Features

The public beta for iPadOS 26.4 has been released for all iPad users. Here’s how to set it up and a summary of every new feature.

## Steps to Install iPadOS 26.4 Public Beta

Apple provides a public beta program for its devices for anyone interested in enrolling. You can register at [beta.apple.com](http://beta.apple.com) to add your device, then download the newest update through your iPad’s Settings application.

The advantage of the public beta program is that you gain early access to future software features. The drawback is that pre-release updates often contain more bugs and performance-related issues.

## iPadOS 26.4: All the New Features Introduced So Far

After a relatively minor update with iPadOS 26.3, Apple has included many more new features in the inaugural iPadOS 26.4 beta. Here’s a summary of the new features introduced so far:

– **Improved Multitasking**: Enhanced multitasking functions promote more effective app management and split-screen use.
– **Additional Widgets**: New widgets for quick access to information and app capabilities directly from the home screen.
– **Enhanced Safari Features**: Upgraded privacy options and better tab organization for an improved browsing experience.
– **Revamped Notes App**: New organizational tools and improved drawing features for a more flexible note-taking experience.
– **Accessibility Improvements**: New choices to enhance accessibility for users with disabilities.

As this is just the first public beta, it’s expected that iPadOS 26.4 will introduce even more new features in the coming weeks.

Have you set up the iPadOS 26.4 beta, and if so, have you uncovered anything new? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Claude Sonnet 4.6 Model Improves Coding Skills and Brings New Enhanced Free Tier

**Anthropic Introduces Claude Sonnet 4.6: A Major Enhancement in AI Abilities**

This month, Anthropic has released the second upgrade to its Claude model series, launching Claude Sonnet 4.6. This version signifies the first improvement to the medium-sized AI model since the release of version 4.5 in September 2025.

Claude Sonnet 4.6 features an impressive “1M token context window,” enabling a broader understanding and processing of information. According to Anthropic, this upgrade constitutes a significant enhancement of the model’s abilities across multiple areas, such as programming, computer interaction, long-context reasoning, agent planning, knowledge tasks, and design.

A key highlight of Sonnet 4.6 is its enhanced programming capabilities. Developers who accessed the model early have expressed a strong preference for Sonnet 4.6 over its predecessor, noting improvements in reliability and adherence to instructions. Several users have even shown a preference for Sonnet 4.6 when compared to the more advanced Claude Opus 4.5 model released in November 2025. The performance of Sonnet 4.6 now aligns with the standards that once required an Opus-class model, especially for practical office tasks that provide economic benefits. Furthermore, there has been a noticeable enhancement in computer operation skills relative to earlier Sonnet versions.

For users on the free tier of Claude, Anthropic has set Sonnet 4.6 as the default model, incorporating functionalities such as file creation, connectors, capabilities, and compaction.

Earlier this month, Anthropic also rolled out Claude Opus 4.6, which features increased autonomy and concentration. In a related move, Apple has integrated support for agentic coding in Xcode via Claude Agent, highlighting the expanding partnership between Anthropic and major technology firms.

For further information regarding Anthropic’s latest hybrid model, you can check their official announcement [here](https://www.anthropic.com/news/claude-sonnet-4-6).