Spotify Launches AI-Powered Audiobook Summaries on iOS and Improves Playlist Shuffle Capabilities

Spotify is launching a beta feature on its iOS application that improves the audiobook listening experience by offering users a summary of the narrative up to their last listening point. This feature, named Recap, is aimed at assisting users in easily reengaging with audiobooks without needing to replay earlier sections.

### Previously on…

As of today, a select range of English audiobooks on the Spotify iOS app will come equipped with the Recap functionality. This AI-driven summary provides listeners with a succinct overview of the plot up to the last point they listened to. Spotify equates Recaps to a “previously on” segment from TV shows, designed to minimize interruptions and sustain engagement in the narrative.

Spotify has partnered with its publishing associates to create this feature, which forms part of a larger effort to make audiobook consumption more intuitive and user-friendly. The Recap button will appear above the audiobook’s Chapters list after users have listened for the initial 15-20 minutes. It will be routinely updated to mirror the listener’s progress, enabling them to reenter the story without facing spoilers or needing a complete summary.

Notably, Spotify assures users that the content from the audiobooks will not be employed for large language model (LLM) training, and the Recap feature is not meant to substitute for the genuine experience of listening to the book.

### Expanded Shuffle Controls

Alongside the Recap feature, Spotify has unveiled a new shuffle option for Premium subscribers known as “Fewer Repeats.” This feature diminishes the chances of recently played tracks recurring during playlist shuffles. Users still have the option to revert to the “Standard” shuffle mode if they prefer the earlier randomization approach.

To modify the Shuffle settings, Premium users can execute the following steps:

1. Access your Spotify Settings.
2. Choose Playback.
3. Select either Fewer Repeats or Standard Shuffle.

Spotify highlights that choosing increased randomness might result in hearing the same songs more often, so users aiming to limit repetitions should adhere to the default “Fewer Repeats” setting.

For additional details about the new Shuffle controls, users can refer to Spotify’s official announcement. More information regarding the Recaps feature can also be located in Spotify’s newsroom.

### Conclusion

With the rollout of the Recap feature and improved shuffle controls, Spotify continues to innovate in the audiobook and music streaming sector, striving to offer a more seamless and enjoyable experience for its users.

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro Could Address Two Major User Demands

# Envisioning the iPhone 18 Pro: Modifications in Design and Improved Battery Performance

Despite the recent launch of the iPhone 17 Pro, Apple is already wrapping up significant details for next year’s iPhone 18 Pro. Recent leaks indicate that two major user requests may be fulfilled in the upcoming iteration.

## 1. Addressing the Two-Tone Rear Color Design

Among the latest speculations concerning the iPhone 18 Pro, a prominent alteration is a revision of the device’s rear design. The iPhone 17 Pro sports a two-tone color palette, where the aluminum surface contrasts with the glass section. While some users like this distinctive appearance, others find it less attractive.

Leak source Instant Digital has revealed that Apple is developing a fix for this design flaw. As per the leak, the iPhone 18 Pro will include new back glass that reduces the color disparity between the glass and the aluminum rear panel, resulting in a more cohesive and harmonious look. This echoes a prior leak from Digital Chat Station, which indicated alterations to the glass segment on the iPhone 18 Pro.

Although it’s still unclear how closely Apple can harmonize the aluminum and glass hues, there is hope that the design will enhance in the iPhone 18 Pro.

## 2. Enhancing Battery Life Even Further

Another intriguing leak from Instant Digital implies that the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be bulkier and heavier than its predecessor, the 17 Pro Max. Apple has underscored the ‘Pro’ aspect of its devices, refining their design to achieve the best battery performance yet. This modification has been favorably received by users, as demonstrated by robust sales figures for the iPhone 17 Pro.

While the leak specifically references the iPhone 18 Pro Max, it’s probable that similar enhancements will be rolled out to the iPhone 18 Pro. For example, prior to the iPhone 17’s release, there were expectations for a thicker, heavier Pro Max variant, but Apple chose to apply these modifications to both Pro models.

Even with apprehensions regarding how thick and heavy the iPhone Pro could become, Apple seems to be catering to user preferences for devices that emphasize battery longevity over slim design. The iPhone 18 Pro Max could act as a standard for measuring user preferences concerning device weight and thickness.

In summary, the speculated design updates and enhanced battery life for the iPhone 18 Pro reveal Apple’s attentiveness to user feedback. As excitement grows for the next generation of the iPhone, it will be fascinating to observe how these adjustments are embraced by the public.

MLS Matches to Watch on Apple TV Next Season at No Additional Subscription Cost

The core Apple TV service is poised to elevate its live sports offerings beginning next season, according to The Athletic. The MLS Season Pass, which now necessitates an extra annual payment of $79 for Apple TV users, will be included in the regular Apple TV subscription. This modification is projected to enhance the overall value of the subscription, priced at $12.99 per month in the U.S. or part of the Apple One bundle.

In the past, only a select number of games were available without the MLS Season Pass, with recent playoff matches being an exception. Most of the season’s matches required the additional subscription, which analysts argue has limited the growth and visibility of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the U.S., especially among younger audiences. By removing the paywall for the Season Pass, Apple seeks to boost viewership and engagement with MLS.

Current projections indicate that the MLS Season Pass has roughly 1-2 million subscribers worldwide, a sharp contrast to the more than 50 million Apple TV subscribers. The forthcoming adjustment is set to greatly expand the live sports offerings on Apple TV in 2026, which will encompass not just MLS but also MLB Friday Night Baseball and Formula 1 as part of the core service. This strategic initiative is anticipated to draw in more viewers and strengthen Apple TV’s standing in the competitive streaming market.