Apple Unveils Additional Features in iOS 18.6

**iOS 18.6: New Features and Modifications for EU Users**

iOS 18.6 is in beta testing, with an official release anticipated next month. Unlike the major iOS 26 update scheduled for this fall, iOS 18.6 will mainly concentrate on bug fixes and stability enhancements. Nevertheless, Apple has announced two notable features specifically aimed at users in the European Union (EU).

### Simplified Installation of Apps and Marketplaces from the Internet

Apple has unveiled significant updates to its App Store policies that will influence both users and developers in the EU. These modifications are intended to improve the user experience when installing third-party applications and marketplaces directly from the internet.

#### Major Changes:

1. **Third-Party App Marketplaces**: Users will have an easier time installing third-party app marketplaces from the internet.
2. **Third-Party Apps**: The methodology for installing third-party apps directly from the web will also be made more efficient.

At present, iOS requires users to go through warning screens when trying to install apps or marketplaces outside of the official App Store. EU regulators have voiced concerns regarding these warnings, leading Apple to adopt a more user-friendly strategy.

#### Updated Installation Process:

– **Initial Installations**: When a user first attempts to install an app from a particular developer, they will go through a comprehensive disclosure process.
– **Subsequent Installations**: For later installations from the same developer, the process will be streamlined, making it as hassle-free as downloading apps from the App Store.

These modifications aim to reduce user anxiety and provide a more seamless installation experience for third-party applications.

### Additional Features and Upcoming Updates

Although no additional features for iOS 18.6 have been verified at this time, there is speculation that this update may bring Apple Intelligence support to China for the first time.

As the beta testing stage progresses, EU users are encouraged to share their feedback on the new features and changes associated with iOS 18.6.

In summary, iOS 18.6 marks an important advancement in how users in the EU can engage with third-party applications and marketplaces, conforming to regulatory expectations and enhancing user experience.

iOS 26 Launch Date: Anticipated Release Information for the Latest iPhone Update

Apple’s forthcoming major iPhone update, iOS 26, is geared to unveil a Liquid Glass redesign alongside a multitude of novel features. While beta testers have the opportunity to try out iOS 26 now, the expected public release date is projected for mid-September.

### iOS 26 Set to Debut This Fall, Most Likely in Mid-September

Apple has announced that iOS 26 will be launched for all users this fall. Reviewing the historical patterns of past iOS releases aids in pinpointing the anticipated launch timing. The last three major iOS updates were rolled out on these specific dates:

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

Each of these releases aligned closely with Apple’s annual iPhone event, typically held in early September. In light of this pattern, iOS 26 is likely to be made public in mid-September, shortly following the reveal of the iPhone 17 series.

During this mid-September period, users with compatible iPhones will have the opportunity to install iOS 26 and take advantage of the new Liquid Glass design, alongside major updates to the Messages app, Apple Music, Wallet, CarPlay, and more.

### Public Beta for iOS 26 Launches This July

For those enthusiastic about experiencing iOS 26 ahead of its official launch, Apple will provide a public beta version. This public beta is set to be released in July and will be open to anyone interested through registration at beta.apple.com.

As with any beta software, the public beta of iOS 26 may feature bugs and performance challenges that can impact device functionality. Apple gathers insights from public beta users to identify and rectify issues prior to the full rollout in the fall. Users ready to embrace potential risks can gain early access to the innovative features of iOS 26.

### Conclusion

With the upcoming release of iOS 26 in mid-September and the public beta set for July, Apple users can anticipate exciting new updates. The Liquid Glass redesign and improvements across various applications are poised to significantly enhance the overall user experience.

New Functionality: Suppress Certain Words in Threads with a 30-Day Timer Feature

Meta’s Threads App: Liberation from Instagram and Fresh Features

Meta is advancing its Threads app, shifting it from a basic auxiliary to Instagram into an independent platform. Recent enhancements have rolled out a specialized direct messaging (DM) system, autonomous mute lists, and a novel feature that enables users to establish temporary filters that will automatically lapse.

### Freedom from Instagram Constraints

In a recent update, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri disclosed a major improvement to Threads’ “Hidden Words” capability. In the past, silencing a word on Threads would also silence it on Instagram, leading to a cumbersome experience for users seeking to control their preferences separately. With the new update, Threads users can now exclude certain words, phrases, and emojis without impacting their Instagram configurations.

Moreover, Threads has added the functionality to mute words on a temporary basis. Users can create filters that expire after 30 days, complete with a countdown feature showing the remaining time. This allows users to steer clear of spoilers or popular topics without permanently silencing them, offering a more adaptable method for content management.

To oversee mute filters, users can go to **Settings > Content preferences > Hidden Words**.

These updates signify a vital advancement in Threads’ evolution, highlighting its role as a distinct entity from Instagram and improving user governance over their experience.

Apple Purchases Office Campus It Had Been Leasing for US$350 Million

**Apple’s Latest Property Purchases in South Bay: A $516 Million Commitment**

Apple Inc. has garnered attention this week with major property purchases in California’s South Bay region, amounting to over $516 million. This strategic initiative highlights the company’s dedication to broadening its presence in an area that has been essential to its activities for many years.

### Latest Purchases

Just days after completing a $166.9 million transaction for the Cupertino Gate office complex, Apple revealed the acquisition of Mathilda Commons, a dual-building office complex in Sunnyvale, for $350 million. This campus covers 382,500 square feet and is situated roughly seven miles north of Apple Park, the company’s main office. The facility is intended to host up to 1,900 employees, showcasing Apple’s continuous growth and the escalating demand for office space within the tech industry.

### Strategic Significance

Apple’s willingness to pay nearly 20% above the assessed value of Mathilda Commons as of January signifies the site’s strategic relevance and the competitive nature of the local real estate market. Kristina Raspe, Apple’s Vice President of Global Real Estate and Facilities, highlighted the company’s deep-rooted connection to the Santa Clara Valley, stating, “The Santa Clara Valley has been home to Apple for more than 40 years, and we’re proud to continue investing in world-class facilities for our teams here.”

### Wider Trends in Real Estate

This acquisition is in line with Apple’s recent pattern of transforming long-held leases into outright ownership of properties in the South Bay. Over the past few years, the company has executed several significant purchases, including a $450 million agreement in 2021 for a five-building office complex and a ten-building campus known as Apple Results Way in 2023, as well as a $70 million office building acquisition within the same year.

### Summary

Apple’s proactive expansion in the South Bay property market not only underscores its growth path but also its dedication to establishing a strong presence in a region that has been crucial to its achievements. As the technology sector continues to progress, Apple’s real estate investments are likely to be vital in addressing its workforce and operational requirements.

Apple TV+ Reveals Premiere Date for Acclaimed Animated Series ‘Stillwater’

**Stillwater Comes Back for Season 4 on August 1**

*Stillwater* ranks among the top-rated Apple TV+ series for children, having received numerous accolades since its debut in 2020. Following a two-year break, Apple has officially announced the return date for Season 4.

For those who are not aware, *Stillwater* is an animated show centered on mindfulness, based on Jon J Muth’s acclaimed Zen book series. The narrative follows three siblings—Karl, Addy, and Michael—as they face childhood obstacles with the assistance of their serene and wise next-door neighbor, a panda named Stillwater.

Every episode merges relatable childhood issues with mindfulness teachings, breathing exercises, and serene storytelling moments. This distinctive format has brought the series both a Peabody Award and a Daytime Emmy.

Apple describes the series as follows:

> “Through breathing exercises, mindful moments, and simple everyday practices, this uplifting, Peabody and Daytime Emmy Award-winning series invites you and your family to discover your own Zen through each episode.”

*Stillwater* is included in Apple’s “Changemakers” content initiative, with mindfulness advocate Mallika Chopra acting as a consulting producer. Season 4 is anticipated to carry on the heartwarming formula that has struck a chord with viewers. For anyone wanting to catch up, the initial three seasons are now available for streaming on Apple TV+.

Apple TV+ is offered at $9.99 per month and showcases popular series and films, including *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Studio*, *The Morning Show*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo*.