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macOS Tahoe Icons Contradict Apple’s Design Principles

### The Debate Over macOS Tahoe App Icons

In late 2023, the app icons launched in macOS Tahoe encountered substantial criticism from both users and reviewers. Numerous commenters labeled the icons as “awful” and “objectively poor,” which resulted in a divided reaction in a poll by 9to5Mac, where readers reflected highly varied opinions on the new design.

#### Background and Design Guidelines

Software engineer Nikita Prokopov brought attention to a significant flaw with the Tahoe icons, noting that they conflict with the principles set forth in Apple’s own Macintosh Human Interface Guidelines from 1992. These guidelines cautioned against the clutter that arises from having individual icons for each menu item, deeming such designs “unattractive.” Instead, Apple promoted a minimalist design, proposing that a reduced number of icons would improve usability.

Prokopov demonstrated this argument by sharing an image from the guidelines, juxtaposing the “unattractive” menu filled with icons against a sleeker, more efficient design. He contends that although screen resolution and clarity have improved, the primary function of icons—assisting users in quickly finding functions—has not changed. He argues that overloading menus with icons reduces their effectiveness, making it difficult for any single icon to be prominent.

#### Discrepancies and Ambiguities

The criticism goes beyond the number of icons themselves. Prokopov also pointed out variations in icon use across different applications. For example, the same function, like “New,” is represented by five different icons in various apps, causing confusion among users. Additionally, he highlighted cases where identical icons represent completely different functions, such as the icon for creating a new note in the Notes app being the same as the “edit address” icon in the Contacts app.

#### Recommended Strategies

In his blog post, Prokopov proposes that a more effective method would resemble the initial design strategies employed by Microsoft, wherein icons were designated for the most commonly used functions. He recommends decreasing the quantity of icons, combined with the application of color coding to improve clarity and usability. His post is abundant with examples and possible enhancements, making a strong argument for a reassessment of the current icon design in macOS Tahoe.

#### Summary

The conversation surrounding the macOS Tahoe app icons underscores a crucial intersection of design ideology and user experience. As Apple progresses with its software, the input from users and experts like Prokopov will be vital in influencing future versions of macOS. For those keen on a thorough analysis and proposed enhancements, Prokopov’s blog post presents a plethora of insights worth examining.

Five Monitor Configurations That Might Be Harmful to Your Screen

affordable computer displays. However, that’s not always the experience you receive. What happens if you connect your new display and the colors appear distorted, the text looks unclear, and the motion seems sluggish? Some users believe this is simply the nature of monitors, concluding that their only option is to invest in a higher-quality one. Yet, the real issue often lies within the settings.

Contemporary operating systems and displays come equipped with numerous options, features, and configurations. Navigating these can be challenging, particularly for those unfamiliar with HDR settings, aggressive response-time adjustments, color calibration, scaling settings, or frame syncing. Each feature is intended to address a unique problem, and while it might seem wise to keep them “on” constantly, they can actually detract from your monitor’s performance. Even worse, these settings can make your monitor seem merely unsatisfactory rather than actually faulty.

The silver lining is that no setting is fixed, and you can easily enable or disable them as necessary. A few minor tweaks in the settings can elevate your subpar monitor into a sharp and responsive display that you truly appreciate.

Disable HDR

“Reasons Marvel Enthusiasts Must Not Overlook Aubrey Plaza’s Overlooked X-Men Spin-Off”

The Guardian has reported that she has “a few friends who can’t bear to watch it because they’re quite unsettled by it.” Thus, although “Legion” enjoys strong ratings, be mindful that it might deviate from what one might usually anticipate from a Marvel property. Additionally, it carries an “Mature” rating, so consider this before introducing younger Marvel enthusiasts.

Aubrey Plaza shines in Legion

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Regarding anything Marvel-related, you can never truly predict who might appear in a show or film. <a href="https://www.bgr.com/2055294/robert-downey-jr-marvel-avengers-doomsday-condition/" target="_

Samsung Reveals Foldable Display Innovation at CES 2026, Possibly Improving Galaxy Z Fold 8

Samsung Display is on the cusp of transforming the foldable smartphone landscape with its newest creation: a completely creaseless panel. This revolutionary technology was presented at CES 2026, where Samsung Display illustrated the panel’s advantages by contrasting it with a current-generation foldable device. The new panel exhibits no noticeable creases, even from various angles, without sacrificing image quality.

The rollout of this creaseless panel signifies a major leap in foldable display technology. Although Samsung has yet to officially announce that this panel will be included in the forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8, the likelihood remains substantial. Traditionally, Samsung has brought pioneering display technologies to its flagship foldable devices, like the tri-folding panels revealed at MWC, which subsequently made their way into the Galaxy Z TriFold.

The lack of a visible crease would give Samsung a competitive advantage in the foldable market, where companies are seeking subtle enhancements to make their offerings stand out. As the foremost foldable manufacturer, Samsung’s vertical integration enables it to utilize such innovations successfully.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 has already reduced crease visibility, but a fully creaseless display would represent a significant milestone, establishing a new benchmark for foldable devices. With the Galaxy Z Fold 8 anticipated to launch later this year, excitement is mounting regarding the prospective inclusion of this advanced panel. As the foldable segment evolves, Samsung’s relentless innovation keeps it at the leading edge of the industry, providing consumers with state-of-the-art technology and design.

Apple @ Work Podcast: Examining Apple’s Perspectives on Local AI and IT Readiness

### Apple @ Work: The Future of AI with Apple Silicon

In the swiftly changing realm of technology, Apple has established itself as a frontrunner, especially with the launch of Apple Silicon. This groundbreaking architecture represents not only a significant enhancement in hardware performance but is also set to be a fundamental element in the creation of local artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. A recent episode of Apple @ Work delved into the ramifications of Apple Silicon for the future of AI, emphasizing the obstacles presented by current IT tools in managing this emerging technology.

#### The Power of Apple Silicon

Apple Silicon signifies a considerable leap in computing capability, allowing devices to carry out complex tasks more efficiently and effectively. This capacity is especially vital for local AI applications, which demand considerable processing power to assess data and make instantaneous decisions. Unlike conventional cloud-based AI solutions, local AI capitalizes on the device’s hardware to execute computations, minimizing latency and improving privacy by retaining data on the device itself.

#### Challenges for IT Management

Though Apple Silicon provides extraordinary potential for local AI, it simultaneously introduces challenges for IT departments. Existing IT tools and management systems are often not designed to meet the specific requirements of these novel devices. Organizations must evolve their strategies to guarantee they can successfully deploy, oversee, and secure Apple devices that incorporate Apple Silicon.

#### Mosyle: The Solution for Apple Device Management

As enterprises maneuver through the intricacies of incorporating Apple Silicon into their operations, Mosyle stands out as a crucial ally. Mosyle is the sole Apple Unified Platform that integrates all essential solutions to effortlessly deploy, manage, and safeguard Apple devices. With more than 45,000 organizations depending on Mosyle, it has demonstrated itself as a reliable solution for preparing millions of Apple devices for use with minimal effort and at a competitive price.

Mosyle’s platform is tailored to meet the particular needs of businesses employing Apple technology, ensuring they can fully leverage the capabilities of Apple Silicon while maintaining comprehensive management and security measures.

#### Conclusion

The future of AI is local, and Apple Silicon is leading this shift. Nonetheless, to completely benefit from this technology, organizations need to arm themselves with the appropriate tools and approaches. With Mosyle, companies can confidently harness the potential of Apple Silicon, ensuring they are ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead in the sphere of local AI.

For those keen on discovering how Mosyle can improve their Apple device management, an extended trial is available to experience firsthand the comprehensive solutions provided.

[Request your EXTENDED TRIAL today](https://mosyle.net/3RDn) and uncover why Mosyle is everything you need to work with Apple.

New Capabilities Unveiled in iOS 26.3 Beta 2 Launch

A few weeks following the launch of the initial iOS 26.3 Beta, Apple has introduced the second version — iOS 26.3 Beta 2. While the specifics of this build remain uncertain (Apple still hasn’t released comprehensive changelogs), it’s probable that the company has enhanced features included in prior releases, along with rectifying bugs. If Apple adheres to trends seen in previous years, iOS 26.3 will likely have fewer beta iterations compared to iOS 26.1 or iOS 26.2, given that the final version is anticipated to be available in late January. Furthermore, among the new features, the company is working on several exclusive options for users in Europe.

For instance, Apple is preparing an updated notification system that will enable third-party smartwatches to receive alerts from an iPhone. Although this functionality has been confined to Apple Watch models until now, the company will allow users the option to select a third-party smartwatch for notifications instead. Additionally, specific to Europe, there is a new NFC capability with enhanced data sharing functionality over a Wi-Fi connection. While Apple has not clarified how these features will operate, they are among the list of enhancements the company needed to implement for users in the EU.

iOS 26.3 is set to bring other features as well. For everyone else, migrating data from Android to iPhone will become simpler during the setup phase. While both companies possess proprietary applications for transferring data, starting with iOS 26.3 and Android 16, Apple is incorporating a built-in feature to facilitate the migration of apps, messages, and photos more efficiently. The companies indicate that additional data will be made readily transferable in the future.

In addition, a new wallpaper is also anticipated, mirroring the black unity wallpaper of 2025. Although Apple typically reserves these for the Release Candidate version, new wallpapers have featured in previous iOS iterations of version X.3, as the company commemorates Black History Month in February. As always, we will keep you informed once more details about the updates in iOS 26.3 Beta 2 emerge. Apple is also releasing the second testing versions of iPadOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3.

Enhance Your Mobile Sound with This Budget-Friendly $22 USB Device

connect a wired headphone set straight to your smartphone rather than opting for wireless options, a portable DAC can remedy both issues. Even more advantageous, portable DACs are easily obtainable on Amazon for a modest price of about $22. These gadgets not only simplify the process of connecting your headphones directly to your device but also provide considerably enhanced control over your music and sound, featuring options like PEQ tuning and high-resolution audio support.

A portable DAC offers a practical means to enhance your phone’s audio

Let’s briefly clarify the distinction between digital and analog signals. An analog signal represents audio that is being heard continuously through your ears. Whether you’re

“Presenting ‘Foldy Bird’: An Innovative Game That Tests Your Foldable Device”

Did you imagine Flappy Bird could become even more exasperating? It certainly can, thanks to this exclusive foldable game.

What you need to know

– Foldy Bird is a clone of Flappy Bird that utilizes the hinge of a folding phone as a mobile game controller.
– To start, play, and retry, you must fold your phone.
– Each fold keeps your Foldy Bird in flight, introducing a fresh twist to a classic and captivating mobile game.

Foldable phones offer enhanced functionality compared to a standard flat phone, as when you unfold them, you encounter a display that’s twice the size. But what if the hinge mechanism itself turned into a feature?

With a new web game created by user Rebane on X (formerly Twitter), it has. “Foldy Bird,” a Flappy Bird replica, employs the hinge on your foldable phone as a mobile game controller. You continually fold your phone to make the Foldy Bird fly, steering clear of the green pipes to achieve a high score. It transforms an already addictive and compulsive game concept into something even more engaging—rather than just tapping the screen, players must physically fold their display to keep their bird alive.

This game is a clever project, and Rebane claims it was developed in an hour without any AI assistance. You can view the complete source code for the game here, and try it out for yourself here. However, a foldable phone is necessary to play, and it only functions in the Chrome browser for Android. The game doesn’t require any tapping — users must fold their device to commence, play, and retry.

The instructions for the game caution to “play this game at your own risk and only on your own devices.” This is because, despite the enjoyment that this creation brings, it might put you on a swift path to damaging your phone. Foldables are rated to endure a few hundred thousand folds, but they’re not built for vigorous and rapid folds in quick succession. If your foldable doesn’t sustain damage from playing the game, it might break from frustration when you inevitably crash your bird into a pipe.

If you own a foldable, Foldy Bird is definitely worth a shot. It’s difficult to think of a more inventive use of a folding display mechanism than as a mobile game controller.

CES 2026: Fresh Whoop Rival Provides Full-Day Health Monitoring Without Subscription

The Luna Band, introduced at CES 2026, signifies a major transformation in the wearable fitness industry by emphasizing actionable insights rather than just data display. In contrast to conventional fitness trackers that concentrate on showing raw statistics, the Luna Band provides real-time, voice-guided health advice, enabling hands-free user interaction with the device. This groundbreaking method is supported by the incorporation of Siri-enabled interactions on iOS, allowing users to log meals, emotional states, and request health advice without the necessity of launching an app.

Fitted with research-grade sensors and a 6-axis IMU, the Luna Band is crafted to monitor micro-recovery intervals, circadian shifts, and stress indicators, equipping users with an all-encompassing comprehension of their physiological condition. The device runs on Luna’s exclusive LifeOS, which analyzes thousands of physiological signals each minute to offer context-sensitive recommendations daily.

The Luna Band’s focus on actionable insights marks a shift from the data-centric strategies of many wearables, striving to provide users with relevant guidance that can enhance their health and wellness. Despite its sophisticated features, the Luna Band will debut without any subscription costs, although details on pricing and availability have yet to be revealed. This commitment to user-friendly, actionable health insights positions the Luna Band as an attractive option compared to existing fitness wearables such as the Whoop 5.0 and Amazfit’s Helio Strap.

Asus and Xreal Partner to Create Enhanced Display Glasses for Gaming Handhelds

These eyewear devices provide a 171-inch display and a refresh rate reaching 240Hz. Asus and Xreal are introducing the ROG Xreal R1 AR gaming glasses, tailored for gaming handhelds, PCs, and consoles. These eyewear support a plug-and-play USB-C connection with the ROG Ally and are widely compatible with HDMI and DisplayPort devices through the ROG Control Dock. They can deliver a 171-inch virtual display at refresh rates of up to 240Hz, featuring a 2ms motion-to-photon latency. The ROG Xreal R1 AR incorporates 240Hz micro-OLED 1080p screens, making them the first gaming eyewear to achieve these standards. They can create a 171-inch virtual screen from approximately 13 feet away, boasting a 57-degree field-of-view. The glasses include an ROG Control Dock for compatibility with a range of devices, such as gaming PCs, handhelds, consoles, and Android smartphones. Optimized for Asus’ products, the eyewear utilizes USB-C for a direct connection to mobile devices like the Asus ROG Ally, providing a “plug-and-play” experience with “no setup necessary.” The ROG Xreal R1 weighs 91 grams and has electrochromatic lenses. Bose delivers “precision-tuned spatial sound” for audio output. The ROG Xreal R1 is projected to be available worldwide in the first half of the year, with pricing and availability details still to be disclosed.