Author: sparta

Apple Unveils macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 1 for Developer Evaluation

**macOS Tahoe 26.2 Developer Beta 1: What to Anticipate and How to Install**

Shortly after its counterparts, Apple has unveiled the macOS Tahoe 26.2 developer beta 1. This update comes on the heels of the official launch of macOS Tahoe 26.1 and brings several new features and enhancements that developers are eager to explore.

### What to Anticipate from macOS Tahoe 26.2

The macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta is designed to improve Apple’s continued integration of Anthropic’s MCP support across its platforms. Furthermore, it broadens the functionalities of Image Playground, facilitating integration with additional third-party models beyond ChatGPT. This marks a notable advancement in offering developers increased flexibility and capability in their applications.

The build number for this beta is 25C5031i, and developers are urged to delve into the new features and report their observations.

### How to Install the Latest Beta

To set up the macOS Tahoe 26.2 developer beta 1, adhere to these instructions:

1. **Backup your Mac**: Make sure all your data is securely backed up prior to continuing.
2. **Open System Settings**: Access your Mac’s System Settings.
3. **Go to General ⇾ Software Update**: Locate the Software Update section within General settings.
4. **Click the ‘i’ icon next to Beta Updates**: This will grant you access to beta options.
5. **Select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**: From the dropdown menu in the upper-right corner, pick the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta.
6. **Hit ‘Done’**: Confirm your choice to begin the update process.

Developers are encouraged to share their experiences and any modifications they observe in this beta version in the comments section.

### Accessory Deals on Amazon

For those aiming to enhance their Mac experience, explore accessory deals available on Amazon.

*FTC: We utilize income earning auto affiliate links.*

Read More
Updates in iOS 26.2, Online Access to App Store, and Verification of Gemini Siri Collaboration

# iOS 26.2: New Features and Enhancements

The recent update to Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 26.2, has unveiled a variety of new features that are creating excitement among users and technology aficionados. In a recent conversation, hosts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller delved into these updates, emphasizing several notable changes and newly added functionalities.

## Key Features of iOS 26.2

### Podcast AI Improvements

A highlight of iOS 26.2 is the introduction of enhanced AI functions for the Podcasts app. These improvements are designed to elevate user experience by offering personalized suggestions and smarter search options, enabling users to more easily find new content.

### Elimination of Apple Watch Wi-Fi Sync in the EU

In an unexpected decision, Apple has chosen to eliminate the Wi-Fi syncing feature for Apple Watch users within the European Union. This choice has prompted concerns from users and industry experts, given its effect on the ease of syncing data without needing a direct connection to an iPhone.

### Web-Based App Store Browsing

Another noteworthy update is the debut of a browsable App Store on the web. This feature enables users to search for and discover apps straight from their web browsers, improving accessibility and convenience for those who wish to avoid navigating through their devices.

### Siri’s New Foundation with Google’s Gemini Models

In a strategic alliance, Apple is poised to invest $1 billion annually to Google for access to Gemini models, which will underpin new Siri features. This partnership aims to bolster Siri’s abilities, making it more competitive in the voice assistant arena.

## Happy Hour Plus Observations

In the most recent episode of 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus, Benjamin and Chance also shared their reactions to the unveiling of the new Apple TV and expressed enthusiasm for the launch of Vince Gilligan’s latest series, *Pluribus*. Their conversations offer insights into the changing landscape of Apple’s offerings and the entertainment sector.

## Hosts

– **Chance Miller**
– **Benjamin Mayo**

## Subscribe, Rate, and Review

Listeners are urged to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to support the hosts and keep up with the latest technology discussions.

## 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus

For those interested in exclusive content, the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription provides ad-free episodes, pre- and post-show material, and bonus episodes for $5 per month or $50 annually. Additional details can be found at

Read More
Vital Affordable Devices for Every Passionate Reader’s Household

Android applications tailored for enthusiastic readers. It may also include physical devices that enhance your comfort and pleasure.

A quick search online reveals a wide array of reading accessories that meet your needs, ranging from lighting options to text magnifiers. They are all user-friendly, and the best part is that they are budget-friendly as well. To provide some insight, here are five affordable yet valuable gadgets that every passionate reader should think about acquiring for their reading experiences.

DATAFY Remote Control Page Turner

Although e-readers tend to be lightweight, holding one for extended periods can become exhausting quite quickly. It would be far more practical if you could simply set your e-reader a few feet away as if viewing a TV and control it from a distance. Fortunately, you can make such an arrangement possible with a device like the DATAFY Remote Control Page Turner.

This page turner, priced under $20, is quite simple to use. Just pair the screen sensor clip with the remote control and place the clip exactly where you usually press to turn the page. Once the clip is fixed in place, press the remote, and you’re all set to begin reading. The page turner functions effectively within a maximum distance of 33 feet.

Read More
Novel Functionality in the Passwords App of iOS 26 Boosts User Comfort

# Apple’s Passwords App: A Revolutionary Update in iOS 26

Apple’s Passwords app, introduced in iOS 18, has revolutionized how users handle their passwords across devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. As a pre-installed password manager, it has rapidly become an essential tool for numerous users. With the launch of iOS 26, one major improvement has been added: the capability to save login version history.

## The Development of Apple’s Password Management

Prior to the arrival of the Passwords app, Apple provided password management features that were frequently hidden within the Settings app. With the introduction of the Passwords app in iOS 18, users received a more accessible and intuitive interface for managing their passwords. Nonetheless, some users, myself included, faced challenges, especially with passwords being inadvertently overwritten.

## The Problem of Overwritten Passwords

Throughout the past year, I encountered a persistent issue where my passwords would occasionally be unintentionally replaced by new ones. This typically happened when I created a new password but had trouble completing the change on the specific website. As a result, I would have the new login recorded in the Passwords app, while the website still required the old password. This scenario compelled me to endure the cumbersome “Forgot your password?” routine.

## The Resolution in iOS 26

Luckily, iOS 26 resolves this issue effectively. The Passwords app now features a function that keeps a complete version history for all logins. This improvement is especially advantageous for users who have faced similar troubles with overwritten passwords.

When you select a login within the app, a new ‘View History’ button appears, given that there are multiple versions of a password stored. This feature permits users to:

– Review each unique password version
– Check when each password was created
– Delete the history if necessary

This enhancement greatly boosts the functionality of the Passwords app, ensuring that users can effortlessly revert to prior passwords without the inconvenience of resetting them on the website.

## Conclusion

In summary, my experience with Apple’s Passwords app has been favorable since its inception. The new version history feature in iOS 26 augments its efficiency, rendering it an even more dependable tool for password management. For those who have encountered similar obstacles, this update is a much-appreciated improvement that streamlines password management. Have you found the version history feature beneficial in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Read More
Walmart’s Initial Black Friday Event Provides $380 Reduction on High-End Garmin Watch

This exceptional Garmin smartwatch is aptly named “Epix”.

(Image credit: Garmin)

Ready for your next upscale smartwatch discount? If you’re aiming to cut costs on a typically expensive fitness smartwatch, Walmart has reduced the price of the Garmin Epix Pro by $380, which usually costs $1,000. Priced at only $619, this second-generation variant of the high-tech training smartwatch is particularly attractive, especially to fitness aficionados who require precise GNSS tracking, various sports modes, and an extensive array of health monitoring sensors.

The Epix Pro boasts a robust design with a steel bezel, a 1.4-inch always-on AMOLED screen, and a plethora of advanced training data that one could anticipate from a $1,000 smartwatch. From HRV status and Pulse Ox measurements to morning summaries, sleep analysis, and training readiness evaluations, this watch offers numerous features for optimal fitness and health tracking. Additionally, it includes a built-in LED flashlight, detailed topographical map information, and activity profiles for a broad spectrum of sports such as soccer, baseball,

Read More
Enhancements in Frequent AirPods Pro 3 Problems: Contribute Your Feedback [Poll]

# AirPods Pro 3: An In-Depth Review of Comfort and User Experience

The AirPods Pro 3 have been presented as a notable advancement over their predecessor, the AirPods Pro 2. While numerous users have commended the upgrades, some, including myself, have found the design alterations to be less than comfortable. Nevertheless, my experience has improved over time, leading to a more refined viewpoint on these wireless earbuds.

## Comfort Enhancements Over Time

At first, my experience with the AirPods Pro 3 was somewhat mixed. The AirPods Pro 2 had established a high benchmark for comfort, making them one of my preferred Apple products. Initial impressions indicated that the AirPods Pro 3 would elevate this experience, but I discovered the contrary to be true. Despite Apple’s assertions of an “enhanced fit,” I faced discomfort that was surprising.

After experimenting with different ear tip sizes, I opted for the medium (M) tips, which offered the best acoustic seal without inducing pain. The large (L) tips provided a satisfactory seal but were uncomfortable, while smaller sizes failed to deliver proper sealing. This discomfort lingered for a while, causing me to reconsider the overall fit of the new model.

However, following a few weeks of use, I observed a notable change. The discomfort that had marred my initial experience started to lessen. While I still favored the fit of the AirPods Pro 2, the AirPods Pro 3 no longer felt overly invasive. They had become more bearable, indicating that an adjustment period might be essential for certain users.

## User Experiences and Anecdotal Insights

Interestingly, I learned from other users that their comfort levels improved over time with the AirPods Pro 3. Despite my early doubts, it seems I might have required a longer adjustment phase than expected. This insight has ignited curiosity regarding the experiences of others with the latest model.

To collect additional insights, a survey was conducted to evaluate whether users found the AirPods Pro 3 comfortable and if their views evolved over time. The findings could offer valuable information for prospective buyers and those contemplating an upgrade.

## Conclusion

In summary, while the AirPods Pro 3 may not have initially fulfilled my comfort expectations, my experience has significantly improved with ongoing use. The shift from the AirPods Pro 2 to the new model may necessitate an adjustment period for some users. As more feedback is compiled, it will be intriguing to observe how others assess the comfort and overall experience of the AirPods Pro 3.

Read More
iOS 26.2 to End a Key Functionality for Apple Watch Users in Europe

Numerama reports that iOS 26.2 will eliminate the automatic syncing of Wi-Fi networks between iPhone and Apple Watch in the region. The report indicates that Apple is addressing the interoperability mandates set by the European Commission, which urges the American firm to keep its iPhone ecosystem and functionalities accessible to third-party developers.

In light of this, Apple has opted to remove the functionality that allows the Apple Watch to automatically connect to the same network as the iPhone in iOS 26.2. While this change is unlikely to impact the networks that the Apple Watch has already saved, users will need to log in independently on each device from now on. Although Apple has not specifically addressed this situation, the company has previously stated that it would not hesitate to eliminate features in Europe in order to safeguard its users’ data from “data hungry companies.”

European Commission continues to anticipate Apple’s commitment to additional essential modifications

New Apple Podcasts Functionality in iOS 26.2 Boosts App Attractiveness

### iOS 26.2 Upgrades to Apple Podcasts: Automatic Chapter Generation

Apple Podcasts has been a fundamental part of the podcast industry for some time, but as competitors such as YouTube and Spotify have emerged, it has encountered notable challenges in retaining its audience. Nevertheless, the recent iOS 26.2 update brings features that enhance the built-in podcast application, especially for users who value the ease of well-structured content.

#### Automatic Chapter Generation

One of the exceptional upgrades in iOS 26.2 is the automatic creation of podcast chapters. This improvement utilizes artificial intelligence to examine episode content and generate chapter markers without any contribution from podcast creators. This is particularly advantageous as many podcasts traditionally lack chapter markers, aiding listeners in navigating episodes more effectively.

Chapters offer a structured summary of a podcast episode, enabling users to jump to the segments that capture their interest most. This feature not only enriches the listening experience but also simplifies the process for users seeking specific content in longer episodes.

#### The Contribution of AI and Transcripts

The automatic chapter implementation is possible due to Apple’s previous introduction of a transcript feature. By merging transcripts with AI summarization capabilities, Apple can efficiently produce relevant chapter markers based on the spoken material of each episode. This advancement allows listeners to now benefit from chapters in podcasts that previously did not offer this functionality, enhancing their overall engagement.

#### User Experience and Reactions

Numerous users have shown enthusiasm for the new chapter feature, highlighting that it greatly enhances the usability of Apple Podcasts. The capability to navigate episodes effortlessly without depending on creators to supply chapter markers is revolutionary. This feature, paired with the transcript function, positions Apple Podcasts as a formidable competitor against alternative podcast applications such as Overcast and Castro.

Despite some persistent dissatisfaction with the app’s interface and features such as Up Next, the rollout of automatic chapter creation and transcripts has increasingly made it challenging for users to transition to other podcast platforms.

#### Conclusion

The advancements in iOS 26.2, especially the automatic chapter generation feature, represent a notable advancement for Apple Podcasts. By harnessing AI technology, Apple is not only enhancing the functionality of its podcast application but also addressing user requests for a more organized and user-friendly listening environment. As the podcast industry continues to change, these updates could assist Apple in reclaiming some of its lost market presence and reinforcing its status as a premier platform for podcast consumption.

Read More
Google Play Now Provides Direct Transmission of Starbucks and Disney Gift Cards

Currently, it’s accessible in just three countries.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Users of the Play Store can now purchase and send gift cards not only for Play credits but also for renowned brands such as Starbucks, Disney, Adidas, AMC, and Athleta.
  • This feature is currently available in the U.S., UK, and Mexico, accessible through your Play profile by selecting Gift Cards or searching for “gift cards” within the app.
  • Nonetheless, these cards cannot be redeemed outside the country where they were purchased, resold, or utilized for business purposes or to acquire other cards.

Notice

Read More

“Galaxy XR Seeks to Transform Entertainment through Improved Immersion, Awaiting Google’s Progress in Spatial Video”

**Spatial Photo and Video Capture Needs to Become a Norm on Every Android Device**

In the fast-changing tech landscape, the capability to take spatial photos and videos is becoming ever more essential. With Apple’s Vision Pro debut in 2024, the tech leader has established a new benchmark by incorporating spatial photo and video capturing into its iPhone lineup. This functionality enables users to record immersive, 3D-like memories directly from their devices, improving how we document and revisit our moments.

Conversely, the scenario on the Android front is different. At present, capturing spatial photos or videos on Android gadgets necessitates supplementary hardware, like the Xreal Beam Pro along with compatible eyewear. Although this arrangement is effective, it is impractical for daily use because of the reliance on extra devices and the hassles of transporting and charging them.

The recent rollout of the Android XR operating system by Google and Samsung, in conjunction with the Samsung Galaxy XR headset, signifies a crucial advancement in the area of virtual reality. This new operating system enables users to operate all Android applications within a VR environment, positioning it as a frontrunner in the XR operating system domain. Nevertheless, the absence of built-in spatial photo and video capture on Android smartphones remains a notable deficit.

Google has worked to address this shortcoming utilizing AI to transform 2D photos and videos into 3D, but the outcomes do not match the quality of native captures. Likewise, Meta has rolled out features to convert Instagram content into 3D, yet these still fall short compared to native spatial material.

For Android users to maximize the potential of devices like the Samsung Galaxy XR, a unified strategy for spatial capture is crucial. Samsung has progressed by introducing an obscure feature in its Camera Assistant application for capturing 3D content, but this should be an accessible feature across all devices rather than a hidden treasure.

Furthermore, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra has already outpaced Apple’s offerings by allowing for 4K spatial video capture, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max is restricted to 1080p. This capability should be highlighted and made available to all users instead of being concealed.

In summary, for Android to maintain stride with Apple’s advancements and offer users a seamless, high-quality spatial experience, incorporating spatial photo and video capture as a standard feature on all Android devices is vital. This initiative would not only enhance user experience but also reinforce Android’s standing in the competitive tech arena.

Read More