Apple Tackles Significant Passkey Problems in iOS 26 Update

Apple’s forthcoming OS updates are poised to unveil a much-anticipated functionality designed to improve the usability of passkeys across various platforms and applications. This innovative feature will enable users to effortlessly and securely export and import passkeys, tackling a major limitation that has impeded the uptake of this security solution.

Traditionally, passkeys generated on Apple devices such as Macs, iPhones, and iPads were restricted to the Apple ecosystem. Although they could sync between iCloud-connected devices, moving them to other platforms like Windows or Android, or to third-party credential managers, was not possible. This limitation sparked worries about vendor lock-in, as users faced challenges in accessing their passkeys if they changed devices or lost connection to their Apple hardware.

The issue of portability is not exclusive to Apple; it has been a common challenge within the tech industry. The FIDO Alliance, which comprises key stakeholders like Google, Microsoft, and various password management services, has been striving to create secure methods for diverse platforms and applications to interact while maintaining the security that passkeys offer.

With the backing of the FIDO Alliance, Apple is now implementing native support for passkey import and export. This functionality will be part of the upcoming iOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, iPadOS 26, and visionOS 26 updates. Notably, this new system will not only ease the transfer of passkeys but will also permit the secure movement of passwords and verification codes.

A major enhancement in this feature is the transfer method. In contrast to conventional password exports that frequently involve unencrypted files, the new approach aims to be end-to-end encrypted. Transfers will take place directly between credential manager apps or from the system keychain to an application, needing local authentication, such as Face ID or Touch ID, to kick off the process. This method mitigates the risks associated with keeping sensitive data in export files.

Apple’s demonstration highlighted that this feature enables users by giving them increased control over their data and the option to select their preferred credential manager. This signifies a significant transformation in Apple’s strategy, moving away from the closely integrated Keychain ecosystem that has defined its services.

The launch of this feature later this year is anticipated to ease concerns about ecosystem lock-in, motivating more users to embrace passkeys as a secure alternative to conventional passwords. For those curious about the technical details, comprehensive information is available in Apple’s “What’s new in passkeys” session on the Apple Developer website.

Guide to Viewing the Latest Apple TV+ Film Starring Sydney Sweeney and Julianne Moore

**Echo Valley: A Fresh Thriller on Apple TV+**

Echo Valley is a fresh film streaming globally on Apple TV+ starting today. This R-rated thriller showcases Sydney Sweeney and Julianne Moore in captivating mother-daughter roles. If you are new to Apple’s streaming platform, here’s how to begin.

**Getting Access to Echo Valley**

Echo Valley is exclusively available via the Apple TV app, which acts as the home for the Apple TV+ streaming service. Along with films available for purchase or rental, the TV+ tab features a selection of nearly 300 original TV shows and movies.

The Apple TV app can be downloaded on multiple platforms, including Apple devices, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and Android phones and tablets. You can also view it in a web browser at tv.apple.com.

While the Apple TV app is free to download, a subscription is necessary to view the movie. Apple TV+ generally costs $9.99 per month in the US, but new users can register for a seven-day free trial.

Apple TV+ is also accessible as part of the Apple One bundle, via selected carrier mobile plans, and as a complimentary benefit for Apple Music Student subscribers. One subscription can be shared with up to six individuals via Family Sharing.

To view Echo Valley, launch the Apple TV app, tap on the Apple TV+ tab at the bottom, and scroll down to the New Releases section. Echo Valley will be prominently displayed as the newest entry. You can begin watching right away or add it to your Continue Watching list.

**What’s the Story of Echo Valley?**

Echo Valley is a gripping thriller that delves into the troubled relationship between mother Kate (Julianne Moore) and daughter Claire (Sydney Sweeney). The situation intensifies when Claire appears at her mother’s home drenched in blood. In spite of their conflicts, Kate is resolute in unraveling the mystery and safeguarding her daughter, revealing the lengths she will go to for her family.

iPhone XS Classified as Vintage: Consequences for Repair and Support Services

Apple has officially categorized the iPhone XS as a vintage product, signifying an important moment in the lifecycle of this device. The iPhone XS, which debuted in September 2018, acted as the successor to the iPhone X and represented a progressive upgrade instead of a complete overhaul. With the iPhone XS now in the vintage category, users of this device should take note of the ramifications concerning support and repair alternatives.

A device is designated as “vintage” five years after it has stopped being available through official retail channels. The iPhone XS has now crossed this line, following the iPhone XS Max, which was included on the vintage list in November 2023. The iPhone XS introduced improvements such as the A12 Bionic chip, enhanced camera functions, and dual SIM support via eSIM, while keeping the design of its predecessor intact.

Being recognized as vintage indicates that although repairs might still be accessible through Apple Stores and Authorized Service Providers, this is dependent on the availability of replacement parts. Users should understand that in two years, the iPhone XS will move to an “obsolete” classification, at which time Apple will no longer extend any hardware support for the device.

Alongside the iPhone XS, Apple has also designated the fifth-generation iPad as obsolete. Moreover, the status of the 2018 Mac mini remains ambiguous, as Apple has advised owners to check with authorized service channels regarding its servicing status.

For those still utilizing the iPhone XS, it is recommended to explore repair solutions sooner rather than later, as the supply of parts may decrease over time. The progression of these devices into vintage and obsolete classifications highlights the swift pace of technological evolution and the lifecycle of consumer electronics.

iOS 26 Design Improvements Boost Appeal for iPhone 17 Air

After months of speculation, Apple has officially presented its major iOS 26 ‘Liquid Glass’ redesign, already generating excitement for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air. Here’s the reason why.

### Liquid Glass Integrates iPhone Hardware and Software More Cohesively Than Ever

The new Liquid Glass design of iOS 26 and Apple’s other platforms signifies a long-term transformation. As Craig Federighi mentioned in the keynote, this represents a once-in-a-decade transition for Apple, laying the groundwork for years of future hardware advancements.

The more one reflects on the new design of iOS 26, the more enthusiasm grows for the iPhone 17 Air. By the time iOS 26 launches this fall, Apple will have just introduced its new ultra-slim iPhone model, which was certainly crafted with Liquid Glass in mind.

Designer Sebastiaan de With effectively expressed the idea well before WWDC, noting that Apple’s interface finally reflects the stunning material qualities of its devices. With all device surfaces featuring glass screens, this fresh interface provides a corresponding material, allowing users to feel the glass itself coming to life.

With Liquid Glass, iOS 26 looks to harmoniously combine the iPhone’s hardware and software, establishing a closer relationship than ever before. This combination is anticipated to excel on the ultra-sleek new iPhone 17 Air.

### Why iPhone 17 Air Might Be the Ideal Match for iOS 26

During the WWDC keynote, as Federighi demonstrated iOS 26 on his iPhone, it became clear that the current iPhone design appeared antiquated for the new software. The thick, cumbersome design of existing models does not appear to align well with Liquid Glass.

Liquid Glass seems to be designed for devices where the display serves as the primary design feature, embodying the envisioned “single slab of glass” design that Jony Ive has pursued for years. This dream is anticipated to be fully manifested in 2027 with a unique 20th anniversary ‘all-screen’ iPhone, but for this year, the iPhone 17 Air appears to be the best realization of this concept.

Liquid Glass will undoubtedly represent a refreshing change for all iPhone models, yet the iPhone 17 Air, with its dramatically sleek design, could reflect a glimpse of the future today. The design of iOS 26 and Liquid Glass is tailored for slimmer, lighter iPhones, which is precisely what the iPhone 17 Air aims to offer.

### Conclusion

The excitement around iOS 26’s Liquid Glass design and its synergy with the iPhone 17 Air underscores a significant shift in Apple’s design approach. The seamless integration of hardware and software promises to elevate user experience, making the forthcoming iPhone model more enticing than ever.

London Pair Employs AirTag to Retrieve Stolen Vehicle Following Police Inactivity

### London Couple Reclaims Stolen Jaguar E-Pace Using Apple AirTag

A pair from Brook Green, Hammersmith, London, managed to find and reclaim their stolen Jaguar E-Pace this week, aided by an Apple AirTag concealed within the vehicle. This occurrence showcases the capabilities of tracking technology in retrieving stolen goods, particularly when law enforcement may not act swiftly.

#### The Incident

On June 3, the couple’s £46,000 Jaguar E-Pace was taken from in front of their residence. Upon discovering that their vehicle was gone, they activated the AirTag, which supplied them with real-time location information. The tracking guided them to a nearby area in Chiswick.

Even with accurate location details, the couple encountered obstacles when they reached out to the Metropolitan Police. They mentioned receiving an unclear response, prompting them to handle the situation themselves, intending to visit the location on their own.

#### Recovery Efforts

In a comment to BBC News, one of the owners voiced worry that the AirTag could be removed along with the car, which spurred their swift actions. Upon reaching the site indicated by the AirTag, they discovered their vehicle parked on a residential street. After encountering some complications with the car’s remote security features, they succeeded in unlocking and retrieving the car.

The Metropolitan Police later noted that an investigation was underway, stating that officers met with the victims as a part of their inquiries.

#### Cautionary Note

Although this story had a happy ending, it acts as a warning. Experts recommend against confronting car thieves or trying to retrieve stolen property without police involvement. Apple also states that the AirTag is not advertised as an anti-theft gadget.

This situation contributes to a rising number of instances where AirTags have played a crucial role in finding stolen items, occasionally more effectively than law enforcement agencies.

#### Conclusion

The effective recovery of the Jaguar E-Pace highlights the power of tracking technology in fighting vehicle theft. However, it also prompts significant questions regarding the role of law enforcement in addressing such situations and the safety of individuals who take recovery actions on their own.

Apple Unveils Worldwide In-Person Meetings to Delve into WWDC25 Enhancements Thoroughly

Apple is taking WWDC25 on the go. After concluding its week-long developer conference, the company has arranged a global series of in-person events and online meetings to provide developers, designers, and product managers with an in-depth look at what’s new. Here’s how you can sign up.

Labeled as “Discover the major updates from WWDC25,” these sessions are intended to showcase key technologies revealed during the conference, including enhancements to Apple Intelligence, visionOS, developer tools, and cross-platform app design.

The in-person events are accessible to members of the Apple Developer Program and will be held in English, while the online sessions will take place in local languages, such as Mandarin, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese.

These sessions go beyond mere technical summaries. They are crafted to encourage dialogue about how the new features can influence the future of apps and games. Participants can look forward to a combination of presentations, live demonstrations, and Q&A sessions with Apple experts.

### A worldwide journey

The in-person tour begins on June 19 with simultaneous events in Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, and Jakarta, before moving on to London on June 23.

After that, Apple will keep hosting sessions in cities like Paris, Stockholm, Toronto, Tokyo, Berlin, New York City, Madrid, Warsaw, São Paulo, and more.

Extra events will take place throughout July in locations such as Bengaluru, Gurugram, Mexico City, Istanbul, Vancouver, and Miami.

Numerous countries will also feature online sessions and one-on-one consultations, covering in-depth looks into Apple Vision Pro, App Review guidance, and localized tech onboarding, with special availability for teams based in Shanghai, Seoul, Cupertino, and Tokyo.

You can check