AllYouCanTech

# Adjusting Your CarPlay App Layout

Have you ever wanted to rearrange or remove apps from CarPlay? Fortunately, you can, though the process differs from changing your iPhone Home screen arrangement. The key is found in the Settings app on your iPhone. Just be sure not to attempt this while driving. You can also make these changes without being connected to CarPlay.

## Adjusting Your CarPlay App Layout

If you’ve connected your iPhone to CarPlay at any point, you can adjust the app layout without being next to your car. Note that the custom app layout is unique to each vehicle, so you’ll have to repeat the process if you want the same configuration across different vehicles.

### Steps to Adjust Your CarPlay Apps

1. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and select General.
2. Choose CarPlay; it should appear as the eighth entry on the list.
3. Pick your vehicle from the list of connected cars, then tap Customize.

Once you’re in this section, you can rearrange apps to your liking by dragging them vertically. The interface operates a bit differently, as sorting app names on a list isn’t the usual way we rearrange iPhone apps. This design choice might be influenced by the diverse layouts of various CarPlay screens.

### Familiarizing Yourself with CarPlay Screen Layouts

You’ll want to know how many apps can fit on one page of your CarPlay screen. A typical configuration is 2×4 (two rows and four columns). If this matches your setup, reference the following guide for sorting order:

1. Top left icon
2. Second from top left icon
3. Second from top right icon
4. Top right icon
5. Bottom left icon
6. Second from bottom left icon
7. Second from bottom right icon
8. Bottom right icon

Continue this sorting for every eight slots to arrange page by page.

Some CarPlay screens may have a different layout, like 2×5 or 4×4. If so, remember to consider the differences in sorting order when organizing by page.

### Concealing CarPlay Apps

The app arrangement interface also lets you conceal or reveal CarPlay apps. Hiding a CarPlay app permits you to eliminate it from CarPlay without removing it from your iPhone.

For additional information regarding CarPlay apps, check out the ongoing lists of [top CarPlay apps](https://9to5mac.com/best-carplay-apps/) and [top EV apps for CarPlay](https://9to5mac.com/these-are-the-best-carplay-apps-for-ev-owners/).

Xcode 26.3 has been unveiled, bringing support for agentic coding, which empowers developers to integrate AI tools such as OpenAI’s Codex and Anthropic’s Claude Agent directly into the Xcode environment. This integration streamlines various tasks, including generating boilerplate code and updating projects in accordance with existing documentation and file structures.

Apple highlights that these AI agents can improve the entire development lifecycle, allowing developers to optimize workflows, iterate quicker, and realize their ideas more effectively. The agents are capable of searching documentation, navigating file structures, modifying project settings, and visually confirming their work through Xcode Previews.

Moreover, Xcode 26.3 exposes its agent interface via Anthropic’s Model Context Protocol (MCP), enabling other compatible tools to connect with Xcode, thereby expanding the range of available AI assistance.

While these tools provide substantial support in development, Apple emphasizes that a solid grasp of one’s code remains crucial, especially for applications aimed for public distribution. The initial feedback regarding this integration has been favorable, with developers sharing their insights on platforms like Mastodon, demonstrating the functionalities of the new features.

YouTube has featured various showcases of the integration, including a session conducted by Ken Orr, the head of the Xcode team at Apple, and discussions by Jerome Bouvard, a senior product manager for developer tools at Apple.

In summary, Xcode 26.3 reduces the entry threshold for newcomers to iOS development while equipping experienced developers with resources to accelerate repetitive tasks. For those keen on exploring iOS development, now is an ideal moment to engage with Xcode 26.3. Additional information can be found on the [official Apple developer website](https://developer.apple.com/xcode/).

# Investigating the Apple Ecosystem: iPad and MacBook Synergy

As a passionate iPad user for almost ten years, I’ve witnessed the device’s transformation and its significance in my everyday computing activities. A prevalent misunderstanding is that the iPad competes with the MacBook; nonetheless, they are engineered to enhance one another within the Apple ecosystem. Features such as Universal Control, Sidecar, Handoff, and continuity tools facilitate smooth interactions that boost productivity. Below, I emphasize some of the most impressive experiences that occur when utilizing iPadOS and macOS together.

## Sidecar

One of the remarkable aspects of the Apple ecosystem is Sidecar, which turns your iPad into a portable external monitor for your MacBook. This feature permits you to either extend your Mac’s display or mirror it on your iPad. Moreover, it allows the application of the Apple Pencil in a macOS setting, rendering it a multifunctional tool for creative endeavors. To activate Sidecar, adhere to these steps:

1. Confirm that both devices are signed in with the identical Apple ID, connected to the same Wi-Fi network, Bluetooth is activated, and Handoff is turned on.
2. On your Mac, go to System Settings > Displays > Add Display > Mirror or Extend to iPad.
3. Position the iPad display by tapping the Arrange button.

Using an iPad as a monitor is a budget-friendly substitute for acquiring a separate portable screen, particularly for tasks such as video editing in Final Cut Pro.

## Universal Control

Universal Control advances integration further by enabling users to manage both their Mac and iPad with a single keyboard and mouse or trackpad. This feature allows flawless navigation between devices, making it feel as though you are operating on one uninterrupted screen. You can also drag and drop files between the two devices with ease. To configure Universal Control:

1. Make sure both devices are under the same Apple ID, connected to the identical Wi-Fi network, Bluetooth is enabled, and Handoff is active.
2. On your Mac, navigate to System Settings > Displays > Add Display > Link keyboard and mouse to iPad.
3. Adjust the iPad display position as necessary.

This feature is especially beneficial for tasks like image editing, where you can create on the iPad and seamlessly transfer files to your Mac.

## Screenshot Edits

An often-overlooked yet highly beneficial feature is the capability to annotate screenshots captured on your Mac using your iPad and Apple Pencil. This method employs continuity to elevate your editing skills:

1. Capture a screenshot on your Mac.
2. Tap the pencil icon on the screenshot.
3. Select your iPad from the dropdown menu.
4. Make your modifications on the iPad.
5. Tap done, and the modified screenshot will appear on your Mac desktop.

This feature simplifies the editing procedure, enabling more accurate annotations.

## Universal Clipboard

Universal Clipboard empowers users to copy content from one Apple device and paste it onto another almost instantaneously. To utilize this feature:

1. Ensure both devices are logged in with the same Apple ID.
2. Activate Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Handoff.
3. Copy content on one device.
4. Paste it on the other device within moments.

This feature is perfect for swiftly transferring links, text, and images between devices.

## Handoff

Handoff enables a seamless switch between devices, allowing you to start a task on one device and carry it over to another. Supported applications include Safari, Notes, and Mail. To implement Handoff:

1. Activate Handoff on both devices.
2. Open a supported application on one device.
3. Look for the app icon in the Dock or app switcher on the other device.
4. Tap to continue where you left off.

For example, if you’re working in Notes on your Mac, the app icon will show up on your iPad, allowing you to resume right from where you stopped.

## Final Thoughts

The synergy of iPad and MacBook through features like Universal Control, Sidecar, and Handoff fosters a unified working atmosphere that enhances productivity. Even entry-level versions of both devices unlock the majority of functionalities, rendering this ecosystem accessible to a broad array of users.

What are your preferred moments within the Apple ecosystem? Do you make use of any of the features discussed above?

The Formula 1 season is set to begin next weekend, heralding the launch of Apple’s exclusive broadcasting agreement in the United States. Every race will be available for live and on-demand streaming on Apple TV, with Apple boosting F1’s visibility across its various platforms.

Viewers can look forward to a specific Formula 1 section within the Apple TV app, featuring live streams of all practice, qualifying rounds, sprints, and Grand Prix races for the 2026 season. On race days, this section will provide quick access to broadcasts and Multiview options, allowing enthusiasts to see both drivers’ viewpoints in a split-screen format. A dedicated camera angle will switch to the onboard perspective of the lead driver. Live race promotions will also appear on the Home tab, facilitating smooth transitions to full-screen streams.

Apple is collaborating with Netflix to introduce the hit docuseries “Drive to Survive” to Apple TV subscribers for the first time.

On race days, Apple Music will offer complimentary audio commentary via Apple Music Radio, enabling fans to experience the race while on the move. A customized F1 hub will showcase curated playlists from drivers and a ‘Sounds of the Circuit’ editorial collection that captures the essence of the race venue.

Apple Podcasts will feature a hub that highlights popular racing and Formula 1 podcasts.

Apple News will have dedicated sections for Formula 1, providing written content from various publishers, including standings for drivers and constructors, interviews, and highlights. Each Grand Prix will have its own page with live updating scorecards and, later in the season, real-time video previews of broadcasts.

Apple Sports will deliver real-time leaderboards, quick links to Apple TV for live viewing, Live Activities during races, and an F1 standings widget for iPhone home screens.

The Melbourne Grand Prix is scheduled for Sunday, March 7, with coverage on Apple TV commencing with the first practice session on Friday at 8:30 AM ET. All practice sessions will be streamed for free, requiring no subscription.

**Apple’s iPhone and iPad Obtain NATO Certification: A Landmark in Mobile Security**

Today, Apple revealed a major leap in mobile security: the iPhone and iPad have become the inaugural consumer devices authorized for use on classified NATO networks. This remarkable accomplishment enables an off-the-shelf iPhone operating on iOS 26 to connect to restricted NATO information without requiring specialized security software or tailored hardware alterations.

In a comment to *9to5Mac*, Ivan Krstić, Apple’s vice president of Security Engineering and Architecture, highlighted the significance of this certification. He remarked, “This milestone acknowledges that Apple has revolutionized the way security is conventionally provided. Before the iPhone, secure devices were accessible only to advanced government and corporate entities following substantial investment in customized security solutions. Rather, Apple has created the most secure devices globally for all its users, and those same safeguards are now officially certified under assurance standards for NATO countries, setting them apart from any other device in the market.”

### How Apple Secured NATO Certification

Obtaining NATO certification is no easy feat; it is the outcome of a lengthy and thorough process. The iPhone and iPad had earlier received consent to manage classified German government information, due to the intrinsic security features of iOS and iPadOS. This approval came after comprehensive evaluations and technical reviews carried out by the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI). Building upon this groundwork, Apple has now attained formal certification for its devices using iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 throughout all NATO nations.

Following this achievement, Apple’s devices are now officially featured in the NATO Information Assurance Product Catalogue. This certification depends on the strong security attributes embedded in every contemporary iPhone and iPad, which include:

– Industry-leading encryption
– Biometric authentication utilizing Face ID and Touch ID
– Memory Integrity Enforcement integrated into Apple Silicon

Claudia Plattner, BSI’s president, stated, “Successful secure digital transformation can only occur if information security is integrated from the outset in the development of mobile products. Building on BSI’s thorough audit of iOS and iPadOS platform and device security for use in classified German information contexts, we are delighted to affirm the compliance under NATO nations’ assurance standards.”

### Consequences of NATO Certification

Though most users may never require access to NATO-restricted information, this certification carries substantial implications. It authenticates the security framework of the iPhone and iPad, offering enterprise and commercial clients heightened confidence in Apple’s security strategy. Similar to obtaining a FedRAMP Authorization to Operate (ATO) for U.S. government agreements, this certification emphasizes the efficacy of Apple’s comprehensive security initiative, all while preserving an exceptional user experience.

In summary, Apple’s success in attaining NATO certification for the iPhone and iPad represents a significant milestone in mobile security, demonstrating the company’s dedication to delivering secure, user-friendly devices for everyone.