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AI Mode Discovers and Secures Dinner Bookings in Search Labs Trial

**Inform the AI About Your Cravings and Your Companions**

In a thrilling announcement, Google has unveiled a fresh feature for its AI Mode that enables users to secure dinner reservations customized to their individual tastes. This functionality is currently accessible to Google AI Ultra subscribers in the U.S. as part of a Labs initiative. By merely informing the AI of your cravings, the number of guests in your group, and your desired dining time, the AI will seek out available reservations that align with your preferences.

This enhancement is part of Google’s continuous commitment to improving its AI features, with the latest update introducing a link-sharing capability for AI Mode chats and broadening the Search feature to 180 additional countries in English. The AI Mode utilizes Google’s Project Mariner software to offer real-time reservation status, guaranteeing precision.

The AI Mode is equipped to handle specific requests, such as securing a reservation for three at 6:30 PM on a Friday, while also taking into account the preferred type of cuisine. This functionality is intended to streamline the dining experience and make it more tailored.

Google’s collaborations with services such as OpenTable, Resy, Tock, Ticketmaster, and StubHub empower the AI Mode to deliver customized results based on user inclinations. Initially centered on dining, Google aims to broaden AI Mode’s functionality to encompass appointments and events.

Alongside the U.S. launch, AI Mode is rolling out in over 180 countries, including Canada. Canadian users will gain access to complex topics and multimodal experiences, including leveraging their phone cameras to engage with AI Mode.

Furthermore, a new link-sharing functionality allows users to distribute their AI Mode search discussions, permitting others to continue the dialogue and pose follow-up inquiries. Users can monitor and eliminate shared links as necessary.

This update builds upon a significant AI Mode enhancement from July, which added personal assistant features, such as making calls to businesses for appointment specifics and pricing details. With these upgrades, Google’s AI Mode is advancing, providing users with a more interactive and tailored experience.

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Summary of Latest iPhone 17 Case Materials and Apple Watch Chip Revelations from Ask9to5Mac

# TechWoven Cases and Apple Updates: An In-Depth Exploration

In the most recent episode of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast, hosts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller explore various thrilling advancements related to Apple, including the much-anticipated TechWoven cases for the iPhone 17 series, the company’s retreat from the MLB streaming collaboration, and details from the iOS 26 beta 7, which signals an imminent launch for Apple’s forthcoming major product cycle. They also interact with listener queries in their recurring segment, Ask9to5Mac.

## TechWoven Cases for iPhone 17

Reports suggest that Apple is poised to unveil a fresh range of cases termed TechWoven for the soon-to-be-released iPhone 17. These cases are anticipated to utilize cutting-edge materials and designs that improve both appearance and functionality. The TechWoven cases aim to offer users a combination of style and protection, addressing the increasing demand for customized and sturdy accessories in the smartphone arena.

## Exit from MLB Streaming Partnership

In a noteworthy change, Apple has chosen to withdraw from its streaming collaboration with Major League Baseball (MLB). This decision brings up concerns about the future of Apple’s sports streaming approach and its consequences for subscribers who valued MLB programming on Apple TV+. The choice underscores a wider trend of tech firms reevaluating their commitments to live sports broadcasting.

## Insights from iOS 26 Beta 7

The rollout of iOS 26 beta 7 signifies that Apple is approaching the introduction of its next major product cycle. This beta release showcases numerous new features and enhancements that users can look forward to in the final version. As developers and beta testers assess the latest changes, excitement grows for the official launch, which is anticipated to align with the presentation of new hardware.

## Listener Engagement: Ask9to5Mac

In this episode, Benjamin and Chance also tackle a variety of listener questions, offering insights and perspectives on an array of topics related to Apple products and services. This engaging segment cultivates a sense of community among listeners and allows them to directly interact with the hosts.

## Happy Hour Plus Subscription

For those wishing to support the podcast while gaining access to premium content, the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription is an option. Subscribers benefit from ad-free episodes, exclusive pre- and post-show content, and additional bonus episodes for a monthly cost of $5 or an annual charge of $50. This subscription framework enhances the listening experience and delivers further insights into the tech landscape.

## Feedback and Community Interaction

Listeners are invited to send in their questions and feedback through various channels, including Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads. They can also email their queries to [email protected], promoting an interactive dialogue between the hosts and their audience.

## Conclusion

As Apple persists in its innovation and evolution, the conversations surrounding its products and strategies remain vibrant and intriguing. The launch of TechWoven cases, the exit from the MLB streaming collaboration, and the advancements in iOS 26 beta 7 emphasize the company’s ongoing dedication to enhancing user experience and adapting to market dynamics. For more insights and updates, listeners can tune into the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast and join in the discussion.

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“Severance Cast Participates in Exciting Trivia Game Show – View Here”

### Severance Trivia Show Showcases Series Cast and Creators

If you’re finding the wait for [Severance season 3](https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/18/severance-season-3-heres-everything-we-know-so-far/) to be challenging, Apple has just rolled out an ideal way to alleviate your anticipation. A [new video episode](https://youtu.be/iH9L6bBEwgI?si=wgMAbQVBx9_hXRKV) of the Severance podcast is now live, featuring the cast engaging in a trivia competition in a game show called “Tournament of Fripperies.”

The [official Severance podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-severance-podcast-with-ben-stiller-adam-scott/id1788381175?itscg=30200&itsct=podcast_box&ls=1&mttnsubad=1788381175&at=1000l3cvR) has traditionally been an audio-centric program. Led by Ben Stiller and main actor Adam Scott, the podcast began as a means to summarize Severance episodes but has managed to persist beyond season 2’s conclusion. Recent installments have included guest spots from other creators and actors who delve into discussions about Severance with Stiller and Scott. Nonetheless, [the newest episode this week](https://youtu.be/iH9L6bBEwgI?si=wgMAbQVBx9_hXRKV) may very well be the most enjoyable so far.

Here’s the YouTube video description:

> On August 16, 2025, Ben Stiller and Adam Scott gathered Severance’s Emmy-nominated cast and creators for a live recording of The Severance Podcast. They invited the talented actor and comedian Patton Oswalt to take on the role of host for the first-ever Tournament of Fripperies, a Severance-themed quiz show that challenges contestants’ understanding of Severance and one another. The star-studded lineup features Britt Lower, John Turturro, Zach Cherry, Patricia Arquette, Tramell Tillman, and Severance creator Dan Erickson as the Tournament Judge. Only one can be crowned the Frippery Champion and earn the title of a true child of Kier. Who will come out on top?

What were your standout moments from the Severance game show? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple TV+ is [available for $12.99 per month](https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.4000?itscg=30200&itsct=tv%5C_box%5C_link&at=1000l3cvR) and boasts popular TV shows and films such as [Ted Lasso](https://tv.apple.com/show/ted-lasso/umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy&at=1000l3cvR), [Severance](https://tv.apple.com/show/severance/umc.cmc.1srk2goyh2q2zdxcx605w8vtx?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.1srk2goyh2q2zdxcx605w8vtx&at=1000l3cvR), [The Morning Show](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-morning-show/umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m&at=1000l3cvR), [Silo](https://tv.apple.com/show/silo/umc.cmc.3yksgc857px0k0rqe5zd4jice?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.3yksgc857px0k0rqe5zd4jice&at=1000l3cvR), and

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Public Beta Launch of Updated Firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4

### iOS 26 Features for AirPods Receive Another Firmware Update

Apple is deploying a fresh public beta firmware update for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, aligning with the imminent iOS 26 software release. This update brings a variety of new features tailored for models featuring the H2 chip.

The newest AirPods firmware is designated by build number **8A5343a**, which corresponds to the developer firmware made available earlier this week. Although users are unable to manually trigger an update, Apple supplies a series of instructions to facilitate automatic firmware updates in the background.

#### Steps to Update AirPods Firmware

1. Make sure your AirPods are within Bluetooth reach of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac connected to Wi-Fi.
2. Place your AirPods in their charging case and shut the lid.
3. Plug the charging case into a power outlet using a charging cable.
4. Keep the lid closed for a minimum of 30 minutes to enable the firmware to update.
5. Open the lid of the charging case to reconnect your AirPods to your device.
6. Verify the firmware version to confirm the update.

For those interested in participating in the AirPods public beta program, registration can be done at

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Apple One Elevates Worth with New Capabilities and Forthcoming Enhancements

# The Expanding Influence of Bundles in the Streaming Age

Bundling is rapidly emerging as one of the major success tales for streaming platforms, and Apple appears to be aware of this, making Apple One even more enticing with its recent price hike for Apple TV+ and the upcoming update to Apple Music with iOS 26.

Introduced in 2019, Apple One has seen bundling evolve into an even more effective tactic. Amazon Prime serves as a classic illustration, but numerous streaming services have recently demonstrated the strategy’s effectiveness as well. Disney offers its bundle featuring Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN. HBO Max achieved significant success by collaborating with Disney. Now, ESPN and FOX are also combining their new streaming services.

Since its debut, Apple One has consistently improved, but two recent moves indicate Apple’s increased commitment to expanding its bundle subscriber base:

1. The Apple TV+ price increase
2. Apple Music’s significant update in iOS 26

## Apple TV+ Price Hike Does Not Affect Apple One

This year, Apple TV+ has truly come into its own, earning the moniker of ‘the new HBO’ with a consistent lineup of high-quality TV shows. It also boasts its most impressive fall content lineup ever right around the corner. Consequently, it’s not surprising that Apple chose this moment to raise the price for TV+.

Apple TV+ is now priced at $12.99/month in the US and several international markets. You can save by opting for an annual subscription. Alternatively, you can subscribe to Apple One, which, despite the TV+ price hike, maintains its current pricing.

With Apple TV+ now at $12.99, the $19.99 price tag for Apple One becomes immediately more appealing. For just $7 more, you also gain access to Apple Music, iCloud+, and Apple Arcade. Apple TV+ and Apple Music stand as the main attractions of every Apple One plan, serving as the primary incentives for subscribers.

With Apple TV+ effectively discounted via Apple One, along with significant enhancements coming to Apple Music in iOS 26, the bundle becomes even more enticing.

## Apple Music in iOS 26 Receives Its Largest Update in Years

Apple Music continually evolves in subtle ways, such as introducing new live radio stations or features like Replay All Time and Sound Therapy playlists. However, iOS 26 introduces a substantial update for users that enhances the overall experience.

If you’re a Spotify user, these changes alone may not sway you. Nevertheless, the prospective savings from subscribing to Apple One while gaining access to Apple Music, Apple TV+, and more could alter your perspective.

The impact of bundles is not a novel concept, but as more streaming services increasingly succeed with bundling, Apple seems poised to make Apple One more attractive than ever.

Are you currently a subscriber to Apple One? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Apple TV+ Subscription Cost Increases to $12.99 Each Month

the monthly subscription has risen to $9.99. Now, almost two years later, it has been adjusted to $12.99.

Per Apple, new subscribers will incur the elevated price starting today. On the other hand, current subscribers will notice the updated subscription rate take effect a month after their following billing date.

Apple’s price hike is justifiable

Possible Reactivation of Inactive Fault Line at Canadian Boundary

Geophysical Research Letters. Within it, the researchers contend that the Tintina fault, which extends approximately 600 miles into Alaska from the northeastern area of British Columbia, has displayed indications of emerging from its inactive period. The fault line is believed to have last exhibited activity nearly 40 million years ago.

The primary worry here is that if the fault line is indeed becoming active, it could potentially trigger an earthquake with a minimum magnitude of 7.5, according to the research. Consequently, the Tintina fault “presents a significant, hitherto unacknowledged, seismic risk,” the authors of the study state.

A quake that could cause extensive destruction

Sydney Sweeney’s 2025 suspense film leads the Apple TV+ streaming rankings.

“Echo Valley” certainly isn’t having trouble attracting viewers on Apple TV+. This family mystery thriller, featuring Sydney Sweeney and Julianne Moore, has ascended into the app’s Top 10 movies list, currently occupying the #4 position. Such popularity is occurring despite lukewarm criticism since its June debut — particularly, the film is maintaining a 52% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes (from 89 reviews) and a nearly identical 51% audience score from over 250 ratings. The official Rotten Tomatoes critics’ consensus succinctly encapsulates the dual nature of this Apple original:

“Julianne Moore’s dedicated performance and the relatable concept of how far a parent is willing to go for their child provide ‘Echo Valley’ with some noteworthy moments, but tedious storytelling pushes it back down to commonplace levels.” In simpler terms: Even if the narrative isn’t resonating with everyone, it appears that audiences are still tuning in for the unique combination of one of Hollywood’s hottest up-and-coming talents and an accomplished Oscar winner.

Echo Valley’s impressive Apple TV+ performance

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Verizon Presents Irresistible Offer on Google Pixel 10 Pro

Obtain the new flagship for FREE, without needing a trade-in.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

The Google Pixel 10 lineup is set to launch on August 28th, but you don’t have to wait to grab an excellent offer on these flagship devices. Preorder the Google Pixel 10 Pro from Verizon, and you might receive the device for FREE when you add a line or upgrade to the Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate plan. 

You’ll still be required to pay the $40 activation fee, but this is still an outstanding opportunity for those who are tired of all the Pixel 10 promotions necessitating a trade-in. That being said, if you do have a device to trade in, Verizon is providing up to $1,000 in promotional credits across 36 months. 

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Best Screen Protectors for Google Pixel Watch 4 in 2025

The top screen protectors for the Google Pixel Watch 4 provide complete coverage. They are primarily made of plastic, as only these adaptable films can conform to the contours of the watch face for thorough protection. Of course, glass cannot bend like plastic.

Unsure of where to start? No need to fret, as all the finest screen protectors for the Pixel Watch 4 are compiled here, including models for both the 41mm and 45mm sizes of the smartwatch.

These screen protectors for the Pixel Watch 4 truly excel

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