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Apple’s Shares Hit All-Time High Fueled by Boom in iPhone 17 Sales

Apple’s stock price has recently achieved a record peak, now hovering around $263 per share. This increase can be linked to various factors, most notably the impressive sales of the iPhone 17.

As Apple gets ready to announce its upcoming quarterly earnings, which will offer the first official glimpses into iPhone 17 sales, external reports are already suggesting that the newest iPhone series is performing remarkably well. In particular, a report from Counterpoint Research points to solid sales numbers, and the recent debut of the iPhone Air in China has reportedly sold out almost immediately, further emphasizing the demand for Apple’s offerings.

This encouraging trend has swayed financial analysts, prompting Loop Capital to elevate its rating for Apple stock from ‘Hold’ to ‘Buy.’ Analyst Ananda Baruah mentioned that while the market has likely included some level of overperformance from the iPhone 17 series, there still exists substantial upside potential through the conclusion of 2027.

At present, Apple’s stock is oscillating around $263, exceeding its previous closing peak of $258.10 from last December. The overall stock market is also witnessing a strong performance, with hopes that a potential US government shutdown may soon be resolved, boosting the positive outlook.

Despite ongoing worries about Apple’s capacity to improve its Siri assistant, investor faith remains strong, primarily fueled by robust iPhone sales. As the market continues to respond to these changes, many are left questioning whether Apple’s stock success will endure in the upcoming months.

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Current Promotions: M4 iPad Pro $406 Discount, 512GB M3 iPad Air $279 Discount, iPhone 16 Pro Max $510 Discount, and Additional Offers

### Significant Savings on iPad and iPhone Models

Your **9to5toys Lunch Break** emphasizes considerable price drops on an array of Apple products, especially the iPad and iPhone. Following the recent release of the M5 iPad Pro, Amazon has also decreased prices on previous models, presenting a great chance for buyers to think about upgrading their gadgets.

#### 512GB M3 iPad Air at Best Price Ever

Amazon has revealed a major discount on the **512GB M3 iPad Air**, now priced at **$969.98**, down nearly **$280** from its original cost of **$1,249**. This offer sets a new record low for this model, particularly in the Starlight color. While other hues are priced higher, this deal delivers an enticing choice for those in search of a powerful tablet without the expense of the latest models.

The M3 iPad Air is categorized as a multifunctional device appealing to users who don’t necessarily require the new M5 chip but want a high-performance tablet nonetheless. Its cellular capability and generous storage make it a reliable alternative to both M2 and M5 models.

#### Discounted M4 iPad Pro

Alongside the M3 iPad Air, Amazon has lowered the price of the **11-inch M4 iPad Pro** featuring a **2TB storage** option. This model is now offered at **$1,892.43**, representing a reduction of over **$406** from its earlier price of **$2,299**. This promotion is particularly enticing for those seeking a high-end tablet, as it merges robust performance with a notable price cut.

Despite the recent launch of the M5 iPad Pro, the M4 model continues to be an attractive selection for individuals wanting a premium tablet experience at a more affordable price. The M4’s features, including the nano-texture glass and cellular capabilities, make it a formidable option in the tablet sphere.

#### Discounts on iPhone 16 Pro Max and Pro

Amazon is also presenting impressive deals on the **iPhone 16 Pro Max**, with reductions reaching up to **$510** on selected configurations. The **1TB model** is currently priced at **$1,089**, resulting in substantial savings from its original price. This model includes a one-year warranty from Amazon, ensuring it’s a dependable option for anyone seeking a renewed device.

For those interested in the **iPhone 16 Pro**, savings of up to **$550** are available on various configurations, making it an ideal moment to acquire one of Apple’s new smartphones.

#### Conclusion

With these significant price reductions on the M3 iPad Air, M4 iPad Pro, and iPhone 16 models, consumers have a rare chance to obtain high-quality Apple products at lower prices. Whether upgrading for personal use or considering a gift, these deals are definitely worth looking into before they disappear.

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Key Messages Enhancements Not Present in iOS 26

**End-to-End Encryption and RCS Enhancements on iPhone: What to Anticipate**

Earlier this year, Apple announced intentions to integrate end-to-end encryption with Rich Communication Services (RCS) in a forthcoming software update. At that point, iOS 18 was the most recent version, suggesting that this pivotal upgrade would probably be featured in iOS 26.

As of now, end-to-end encryption has yet to be enacted. This upgrade is essential not just for improving privacy but also for bringing other vital enhancements to the RCS protocol. Currently, in the iOS 26.1 beta, these upgrades are still missing.

### Comprehending End-to-End Encryption

Apple initially rolled out a foundational version of the RCS protocol with iOS 18, employing version 2.4, which encompassed features like read receipts, better quality images, and typing indicators. However, it did not provide end-to-end encryption upon release, as the open RCS standard did not incorporate this feature until version 3.0.

In March, Apple declared their pledge to support end-to-end encryption for RCS, coinciding with the launch of RCS version 3.0. This was underscored in a statement from Apple, highlighting their role in a cross-industry initiative to bolster privacy and security in messaging.

### RCS 2.7 Enhancements

At present, iOS utilizes RCS version 2.4, but the arrival of RCS version 2.7 introduces several significant upgrades, aligning it more closely with contemporary messaging platforms like iMessage. Key features anticipated with RCS 2.7 include:

– In-line responses
– Adequate support for reactions
– Custom reactions
– Option to modify messages
– Option to erase or recall messages

Currently, although RCS on iPhone does allow for reactions, the execution is not entirely operational. Users presently receive a text alert indicating a reaction instead of seeing the actual emoji.

The capacity to modify, erase, and respond inline to messages between iPhone and Android users would greatly enhance the messaging experience. However, there is no confirmed schedule for when these upgrades will be released, although they are expected to be part of the iOS 26 release cycle.

Considering that these features are not yet supported in the iOS 26.1 beta, the next possible release timeframe for RCS version 3.0 is likely with iOS 26.2, anticipated around December. Until then, users will need to wait for additional updates regarding the launch of these enhancements.

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TSA Rules Regarding Carry-On Bags Featuring Integrated USB Ports

TSA has issued a caution to iPhone users against utilizing public USB ports when a specific setting is activated. The great feature of luggage equipped with ports is that you can charge your devices directly from the bag — there’s no need to remove a plugged-in power bank and handle tangled wires all over the place. There are some attractive bag selections that provide this capability as well. Certain backpacks include USB ports, but you need to bring your own power bank, while other bags come with one pre-installed. Considering the TSA’s stance on electronics, how does this affect the security screening process? Is the agency actually permitted to accept luggage with integrated USB ports and power packs?

These are valid inquiries, and they have clear answers. Indeed, the TSA permits them, with some conditions. Yes, it’s akin to carrying a standalone battery or power bank. There’s a size limit that cannot be exceeded — lithium ion batteries must be under 100 watt-hours each, and lithium metal must be restricted to no more than 8 grams — and it should be in your carry-on. Checked luggage containing a built-in power bank is not allowed as it must remain in a carry-on. If the bag has only USB ports without any connections made, you are likely in the clear, but be prepared to show agents that nothing is linked. Moreover, the FAA stipulates that “battery terminals must be safeguarded against short circuit,” and even though USB ports are not technically battery terminals, similar regulations are expected to be enforced — with a flap, cap, or sleeve to shield the port.

What can you realistically anticipate when employing a bag featuring a power bank and built-in USB ports?

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iOS 26.1 Improves AirPods Pro with Additional Features: Important Updates Discussed

**iOS 26.1: Improvements for AirPods with Live Translation**

iOS 26.1 is approaching, promising notable updates not only for iPhones but also for AirPods. A standout feature of this update is the broadened scope of Live Translation, which will now encompass five more languages.

### AirPods Live Translation Broadens Language Availability

Apple’s latest update for AirPods brought forth Live Translation, a function that facilitates communication among various languages. First introduced with the AirPods Pro 3, Live Translation is also functional with:

– AirPods Pro 2
– AirPods 4 featuring Active Noise Cancellation

Upon its launch, Live Translation accommodated the following languages:

– English (US and UK)
– French
– German
– Portuguese (Brazil)
– Spanish (Spain)

With the imminent iOS 26.1 update, the feature will incorporate five additional languages:

– Chinese (Mandarin, simplified)
– Chinese (Mandarin, traditional)
– Italian
– Japanese
– Korean

This growth almost doubles the overall number of languages supported by Live Translation, elevating the total to eleven.

### How to Activate Live Translation

To activate a specific language for Live Translation, users must head to the Settings app on their iPhone operating iOS 26.1. From there, they can enter their AirPods’ settings screen and find the ‘Languages’ menu within the ‘Translation (Beta)’ section. Users will be able to download any of the available languages they wish to utilize.

### Compatibility Prerequisites

To employ Live Translation with AirPods, a compatible Apple Intelligence iPhone model is required. The supported models include:

– iPhone 17 and 17 Pro
– iPhone Air
– iPhone 16 and 16 Pro
– iPhone 15 Pro

For a detailed list of requirements for AirPods Live Translation, users can consult Apple’s official support website.

### Conclusion

The advancements in iOS 26.1, especially the extension of Live Translation for AirPods, signify a major leap in overcoming language obstacles. Users are invited to delve into this feature and share their experiences as it rolls out.

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New Engine Innovation Promises Mars Journey in Only 30 Days

In the unyielding pursuit to shorten and enhance the safety of journeys to Mars, Russian researchers have recently sparked interest with a daring assertion: A plasma-based propulsion system could decrease the Earth-Mars transit time to merely 30 to 60 days. This represents a significant reduction from the usual estimate of around 9 months to reach the Red Planet, potentially extending up to a year for crewed missions.

Plasma, or electric propulsion, is not a novel concept. For many years, spacecraft have utilized variations such as ion thrusters and Hall-effect thrusters for tasks like station-keeping, orbital maneuvers, and deep-space explorations. NASA’s Dawn mission implemented ion propulsion to investigate the asteroid belt, while several commercial communication satellites leverage electric thrusters to sustain their orbits. All these systems function by accelerating charged particles (ions) with electric or magnetic fields, providing remarkable fuel efficiency, though they produce comparatively low thrust. What distinguishes the Russian initiative is its potential to advance plasma propulsion far beyond current applications. If it proves successful, it could herald a new era in interplanetary travel, transforming plasma engines from mere orbital stabilizers into primary propulsion systems capable of traversing vast distances within the solar system.

Functionality of the new plasma engine

The researchers from the state-owned Rosatom developed a laboratory prototype of a plasma electric rocket, utilizing a magnetic plasma accelerator. Essentially, rather than combusting chemical fuel and oxidizer to generate hot gas for thrust, this engine ionizes a working fluid (hydrogen, in Rosatom’s example) into plasma (charged particles). It then harnesses electromagnetic fields to accelerate these charged particles to extremely high speeds and expel them, thereby propelling the spacecraft forward.

This configuration enables the exhaust velocity of particles to reach approximately 100 km/s (about 62 miles per second), significantly exceeding the 2 to 4.5 km/s exhaust speeds typical of chemical rockets. The prototype reportedly operates in a pulse-periodic manner with an average power of around 300 kW. The thrust is currently modest (approximately 6 newtons), which is lower than that of chemical rockets, but in plasma propulsion, the goal is to provide continuous acceleration over extended periods to gradually achieve high velocities. The Rosatom team asserts that the prototype could function for over 2,400 hours, which they consider adequate for a Mars mission according to their theoretical framework. They aim to create a flight-ready version of the engine by 2030.

In comparison to chemical rocket engines, the primary consideration is the balance between thrust and efficiency. Chemical rockets can produce exceptionally high thrust, which is essential for launch and swift maneuvers. However, they utilize propellant inefficiently and face limitations related to the chemical energy constraints of fuel-oxidizer reactions. Plasma engines, in contrast, deliver significantly greater propellant efficiency and higher exhaust velocities, making them more appropriate for prolonged, sustained acceleration in space. The Russian design will depend on conventional rockets to elevate the spacecraft into orbit, subsequently transitioning to the plasma engine for the Mars journey phase.

Traveling to Mars now and in the future

Achieving Mars in 30 to 60 days would necessitate average speeds much higher than what current spacecraft can manage. Presently, missions to Mars require up to 9 months on average, depending on planetary alignment, fuel limitations, and orbital transfer tactics. Key challenges include limited thrust, the inefficiencies linked with chemical propulsion, and the hazards faced by astronauts from cosmic radiation during prolonged exposure.

NASA’s Deep Space 1 mission, launched in 1998, utilized ion propulsion to attain a specific impulse (a gauge of thrust efficiency) of 3,100 seconds. This is roughly ten times greater than that of chemical rockets. This efficiency emphasizes the significance of plasma engines for the future of deep-space exploration. In 2023, NASA employed Hall-effect thrusters to travel to the metal-rich asteroid Psyche. This mission is projected to arrive at its target in 2029, demonstrating the viability of electric propulsion for extended space travel.

Building on this progress, a new Russian plasma engine promises even greater efficiency and sustained thrust, potentially facilitating much shorter travel durations to Mars and beyond. If successful, such technology could signify a pivotal moment in deep-space propulsion, enabling faster, more ambitious missions throughout our solar system.

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Retroid Unveils Future Gaming Handheld with ‘The Future is Now’ Tagline

Will the Retroid Pocket 6 Shape the Future? Or Is It Something Different?

Retroid has ignited enthusiasm within the gaming community with a teaser for its forthcoming device, believed to be the Retroid Pocket 6. The teaser, which guarantees further information on October 27, has left fans pondering the trajectory of handheld gaming.

The market for gaming handhelds is booming, with Retroid ready to launch its next flagship product. The Retroid Pocket 6 is anticipated to include significant enhancements, potentially driven by the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2, delivering improved CPU and GPU capabilities. This aligns with Retroid’s announcement at GDC 2025, where it collaborated with Qualcomm to promise state-of-the-art technology.

Although the design of the Retroid Pocket 6 is still under wraps, possibilities vary from a classic horizontal configuration to a clamshell format, mirroring current trends. Retroid may even surprise us with both designs, appealing to varied preferences in the competitive sub-$300 segment.

The rivalry is intense, with AYANEO and AYN unveiling groundbreaking devices like the Pocket FIT and Odin 3, respectively. Anbernic’s forthcoming RG DS, available for under $100, enhances the competitive scene. Retroid needs to present an attractive product to uphold its status.

The gaming community is keenly anticipating Retroid’s announcement, eager to discover if the Retroid Pocket 6 will transform handheld gaming or if another competitor will rise as the future of the sector.

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Apple Unveils Video Starring Jane Goodall Highlighting Mac’s Contribution to Nurturing Innovation: ‘Excellent Concepts Begin Here’

Apple has released a new video today promoting the Mac, which includes the voice of the late Jane Goodall.

### New Mac Video Features Late Jane Goodall’s Voice

Apple has consistently emphasized the Mac as the platform where creativity can thrive. Its newest advertising campaign embodies that same idea. Accompanied by the voiceover of the late Jane Goodall, the video—‘Great ideas start on Mac’—explores the concept of creative thoughts beginning from scratch, but often taking shape on a Mac. Goodall does not mention the Mac specifically, but instead hints at the “flicker on a screen” as a prompt to create something innovative.

While the video does not endorse any particular Mac models, it coincides with the week that Apple’s new M5 MacBook Pro will hit retail stores.

Here’s a statement from Apple regarding the new advertising campaign, shared with Ad Age:

> “This campaign honors the most challenging and enigmatic aspect of a great idea—its beginning: how something is forged from nothing, from a blank canvas,” Tor Myhren, Apple’s VP of marketing communications, informed Ad Age. “It’s astonishing how many of the world’s significant ideas originated on a Mac. This work pays tribute to these ideas, and to everyone who strives to create more of them.”

What are your thoughts on the new Apple advertisement? Share with us in the comments.

### Top Mac Accessories

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.*

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iOS 26.1 Launch Date: Anticipated Schedule for the Upcoming iPhone Upgrade

# iOS 26.1: What to Anticipate from the Coming Update

The forthcoming major update for iPhone users, iOS 26.1, is presently undergoing beta testing, with a public release expected imminently. Although Apple has yet to officially confirm the launch date, past trends indicate that iOS 26.1 should be available in the final week of October.

## Anticipated Release Date

Apple has established a pattern of predictable software release schedules. The launch dates for former x.1 updates offer a definitive timeline:

– **iOS 18.1**: Monday, October 28
– **iOS 17.1**: Wednesday, October 25
– **iOS 16.1**: Monday, October 24

Following this trend, iOS 26.1 is likely to debut around **October 27**, with Monday, October 27, as the most probable option. Should the update not arrive that week, early November will be the next likely window.

## New Features in iOS 26.1

While iOS 26.0.1 recently tackled various bugs, the x.1 updates generally deliver more significant enhancements and corrections. iOS 26.1 is anticipated to concentrate on improving user experience through new functionalities and broadened capabilities.

### Major Features

1. **Expansion of Apple Intelligence**: iOS 26.1 will unveil Apple Intelligence features in eight additional languages, greatly increasing accessibility for users worldwide.

2. **Live Translation for AirPods**: This feature will gain support for five extra languages, improving real-time interaction for users with AirPods.

3. **Enhancements to Apple Music**: A novel swipe gesture will enable users to seamlessly switch between tracks, enhancing the overall music experience.

4. **Revised Alarms and Timers**: The update will change the one-tap stop button to a ‘Slide to stop’ gesture, facilitating a more intuitive management of alarms and timers.

5. **User Interface Improvements**: Enhancements will be made to the Photos app’s video playback scrubber and the Phone app, delivering a more refined interface.

As users anticipate the iOS 26.1 update, many are deliberating whether to transition from earlier versions. The improvements and new features may render the wait worthwhile for those currently using iOS 18.

## Conclusion

With the looming launch of iOS 26.1, Apple persistently builds on its tradition of innovation and user-focused design. The anticipated features and advancements promise to elevate the overall iPhone experience, ushering in an exciting update for users. Stay tuned for the official launch announcement as we near the end of October.

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