AllYouCanTech

The newest WhatsApp beta version on TestFlight brings a native CarPlay app, enhancing the app’s functionality beyond the existing voice-controlled interface. Here are the specifics.

### Feature Anticipated to Launch in the Upcoming Weeks

WhatsApp users engaging with the app via CarPlay will likely tell you that the current integration is quite limited. Tapping the WhatsApp icon on CarPlay presently activates Siri, offering options to request it to draft a new message or make a voice call.

However, as reported by WABetaInfo, Meta is developing a thoroughly redesigned WhatsApp experience that transcends the present Siri commands. It unveils a native CarPlay interface enabling users to browse recent chats, access contact details, and start messages or calls without solely depending on voice commands.

From WABetaInfo:

> When users launch WhatsApp from the system launcher, they are greeted with a dedicated chat list screen. This serves as the primary tab of the app, allowing users to view their recent interactions, typically covering conversations from the past 20 to 25 days. Keep in mind that it is not possible to open a particular chat to read its history. This is sensible, as drivers should not be reading full conversations while driving. When not on the road, users can easily retrieve the full chat history on their smartphones.

The updated CarPlay experience is presently accessible to a select group of users testing the app via TestFlight.

It encompasses:
– A new **contact info** interface that allows users to view profile information for each contact;
– A **call history** interface displaying recent calls, including whether they were incoming, outgoing, or missed;
– Support for **favorite contacts** through a dedicated tab.

As typical with any beta feature, there’s currently no information regarding when WhatsApp will officially release it, nor if features will be added or removed ahead of launch.

To find out more about CarPlay support in the WhatsApp beta, follow this link.

# iOS 26.5 Beta 1: Summary and New Features

Apple has officially launched the initial beta version of iOS 26.5 for developers, identified by the build number 23F5043g. This update accompanies similar launches for iPadOS, macOS, visionOS, and watchOS, with a public beta anticipated soon. While this iteration does not introduce the highly anticipated new Siri functionalities, it does feature several noteworthy modifications and improvements.

## What’s New in iOS 26.5 Beta 1?

### Suggested Places in Apple Maps

A key enhancement in iOS 26.5 is the “Suggested Places” feature in Apple Maps. This functionality will offer users recommendations based on popular local spots, recent queries, and other pertinent information. Users can view these suggestions by tapping within the search box in the Apple Maps application.

### Foundation for Ads in Apple Maps

While advertisements are not yet active in Apple Maps, Apple is gearing up for their rollout. The groundwork has been established for local ads that may display based on users’ locations and search queries, bolstering the app’s monetization approach.

### RCS End-to-End Encryption

Apple continues to bolster messaging security with the introduction of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages in iOS 26.5. This feature was initially trialed in the previous beta but did not debut with that version. The current release notes indicate that this feature is on track for public availability.

### App Store Purchase Options

Developers will notice new purchase alternatives in the App Store, featuring a monthly billing model with a 12-month commitment. This adjustment aims to provide greater flexibility in subscription frameworks, although additional details are awaited.

### EU Changes

iOS 26.5 also brings features tailored for users in the European Union, such as support for Live Activities in third-party accessories. This capability will enable accessories to showcase Live Activities from an iPhone, though specific information about compatible accessories is still forthcoming.

## Additional Changes in iOS 26.5

In addition to the major features, iOS 26.5 encompasses several minor updates:

– **Accessory Pairing**: Improved Bluetooth connectivity for Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, or Magic Trackpad when linked to an iPhone.
– **New Inuktitut Keyboard Layout**: A new keyboard layout designed to accommodate the Inuktitut language.
– **Apple Books Updates**: Teasers of new features for a “Year In Review for 2026,” showcasing various reader accomplishments.
– **Data Transfer Options**: Enhanced capabilities for sharing message attachments during data transfer from iPhone to Android.

## Conclusion

iOS 26.5 beta 1 introduces a blend of new features and improvements, particularly in Apple Maps and messaging security. As the beta testing phase continues, more features may emerge, and users are encouraged to report their discoveries. Stay tuned for the public beta release, expected soon.

### Apple Subsidiary Violated Sanctions Against Russia

The UK has levied a fine of £390,000 (around $516,000) on Apple Distribution International Ltd. (ADI), a branch of Apple, for breaching sanctions imposed on Russia. This measure follows the nation’s invasion of Ukraine and underscores the significance of adherence to global sanctions.

As per a Bloomberg report, the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) discovered that ADI executed payments amounting to £635,618 to Okko LLC, a Russian streaming service, during June and July of 2022. At the moment of these transactions, Okko was under UK sanctions due to the ongoing geopolitical crisis.

#### Breach Details

The payments were processed through UK banks, and ADI proactively informed OFSI about the transactions after recognizing that Okko had recently come under sanctions. The OFSI pointed out that although ADI depended on its affiliates for managing payment operations and performing sanctions checks, the company itself bears legal responsibility for the violation, as it authorized the payments.

In its formal notice, the OFSI remarked that “the duty of ensuring compliance with sanctions legislation lies with the entity directly accountable for the breach.” This indicates that even if a business entrusts compliance responsibilities to outside parties, it remains responsible for any transgressions.

#### Compliance and Settlement

The matter was settled through an agreement, which the OFSI characterized as a means to secure timely enforcement results. As part of the settlement, ADI accepted the fine and relinquished its rights to a ministerial review and appeal.

This occurrence acts as a reminder for businesses functioning in international markets to uphold strict compliance protocols to prevent sanction violations, particularly in today’s geopolitical landscape.

### Apple Unveils AlarmKit in iOS 26: Updates in Fantastical

Apple has launched a new developer resource named AlarmKit in iOS 26, which has been incorporated into the latest iteration of Fantastical for iPhone and iPad. This major enhancement improves user interaction by enabling tasks and events within Fantastical to present more noticeable alerts, making it easier for users to recognize important notifications.

#### Main Features of the New Fantastical Update

The latest update to Fantastical brings several significant features:

– **Alarm Integration**: Users can now set off alarms directly from tasks and events, ensuring that reminders stand out more.
– **Enhanced Month View**: The month view has been reimagined to better distinguish months and emphasize the chosen month more effectively.
– **Recurring Events Adaptability**: Users can now utilize both timed and all-day events in a recurring series, allowing for increased scheduling flexibility.
– **Event Management**: A new menu bar item has been introduced to let users easily hide and unhide events, located under Edit > Hide.
– **Google Tasks Integration**: Tasks assigned from Google Docs will now integrate seamlessly into Fantastical, boosting productivity for users of both platforms.

Furthermore, the Mac version of Fantastical has also embraced the new menu bar customization feature, facilitating smoother event management.

#### Additional Improvements and Resources

For those keen on delving into the recent updates to Fantastical, further information is available on the [official website](https://flexibits.com/blog/2026/03/new-feature-roundup-volume-3/). The update also offers configurable Apple Watch complications, providing users with the ability to personalize their experience further.

Apple has likewise implemented AlarmKit into its Reminders app in iOS 26.2, highlighting a broader commitment to upgrading task management across its ecosystem.

In summary, the rollout of AlarmKit in iOS 26 signifies a noteworthy progression in how users can oversee their tasks and events, especially through the Fantastical app, which continues to adapt to fulfill user demands.

AT&T has introduced a new ‘OneConnect’ plan that merges wireless services across multiple devices with home internet, with the goal of simplifying connectivity for users.

### AT&T’s New ‘OneConnect’ Plan Provides One Subscription for Unlimited Connectivity

In a time when juggling various subscriptions can be daunting, AT&T’s OneConnect plan aims to enhance the experience. The plan includes “one subscription, one flat monthly rate, and coverage for your wireless and home internet across your devices.”

#### Pricing and Features

The OneConnect plan is crafted to be consumer-friendly, allowing new users to enroll in AT&T wireless and 1 Gig fiber internet in less than five minutes. Major features comprise:

– **First and Only**: AT&T asserts that it is the first and only provider to integrate fast, dependable home internet and wireless service into a single subscription with a unified price.

– **Fast and Simple**: The enrollment process is swift, making it accessible for users seeking a seamless experience.

– **Connected to Everything**: The service runs on America’s most extensive wireless and fiber networks, ensuring a strong connectivity experience.

The ease of flat pricing and the convenience of a single bill for all internet services render OneConnect a significant addition to the market. While not every wireless carrier provides home internet, this plan could motivate similar offerings from other companies.

For further details and to verify availability, visit [att.com/oneconnect](http://att.com/oneconnect).

### Conclusion

AT&T’s OneConnect plan signifies a major move toward simplifying connectivity for users. With its all-in-one model, it may set the stage for more streamlined offerings in the telecommunications sector.