Nintendo Store App Launched Worldwide, Showcasing Games, Consoles, Merchandise, and Additional Offerings

After several years of exclusivity in Japan, the official Nintendo Store app is now accessible in various countries, including the US. Here’s what you can accomplish with it.

## Purchase Switch games, merchandise, and more

In 2020, Nintendo introduced the “My Nintendo” app in Japan, enabling iOS and Android users to view content, such as Nintendo Direct streams, and acquire software, hardware, and services.

Now, as reported by *The Verge*, the company is broadening the app’s reach under the Nintendo Store title, launching it in areas like Brazil, Canada, Mexico, the UK, the US, and much of Europe.

As per the app’s current description in the App Store, users can browse and buy consoles and accessories, in addition to digital games and merchandise. They can also check in at official Nintendo stores and events to collect rewards.

Nintendo mentions that hardware availability might differ by region and that users can log in with their Nintendo Accounts for a more customized experience, including access to their gaming activity.

Here’s Nintendo’s complete description of what users can look forward to doing in the app:

– **Shop at My Nintendo Store:** This app allows you to browse Nintendo Switch™ 2 / Nintendo Switch systems and accessories, both physical and digital games, as well as other Nintendo products and merchandise—and then head straight to My Nintendo™ Store to make purchases. Note: Physical products may not be offered in all countries/regions.

– **Get the newest updates on games:** Keep informed with the latest news regarding Nintendo games, events, and additional content!

– **Receive alerts about sales:** Enable push notifications for when items on your Wish List are on sale.

– **Review your gaming activity:** Log in with your Nintendo Account to check your Nintendo Switch 2 / Nintendo Switch gaming activity. If you owned a Nintendo 3DS™ or Wii U™ system, you can see your gaming activity recorded before February 2020. Note: To access your Nintendo 3DS and Wii U gaming activity, you must link your Nintendo Network ID (NNID) to your Nintendo Account.

– **Check in at events:** Utilize the app to check in at official Nintendo stores and events and earn related rewards! Your check-in activity will also be available within the app.

The Nintendo Store app is available for iPhone and iPad.

iOS 26.2 to Remove Essential iPhone and Apple Watch Functionality in EU, Based on Report

Apple’s continuous attempts to adhere to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) may soon result in the elimination of a crucial feature for users in Europe. A recent report suggests that with the launch of iOS 26.2, iPhones will no longer have the capability to synchronize Wi-Fi networks to Apple Watches within the EU.

### Wi-Fi Network Synchronization Between iPhone and Apple Watch May Be Turned Off with iOS 26.2 in the EU

Apple has recently revealed that the AirPods Live Translation feature will debut in the EU concurrently with iOS 26.2. This functionality was previously accessible in the US and other areas with iOS 26, but its introduction in Europe was postponed due to further engineering adjustments needed for DMA compliance.

Nevertheless, along with this new feature, it seems that iOS 26.2 will also bring a setback for EU users. Apple has communicated to the French outlet Numerama that the capability to sync Wi-Fi information between an iPhone and an Apple Watch will be disabled in Europe due to the stipulations of the DMA.

Apple’s choice arises from the European Commission’s demand to make the iPhone’s Wi-Fi accessible to third-party accessories by the end of 2025. If Apple does not turn off Wi-Fi syncing, it would have to permit third-party devices access to Wi-Fi networks, which the company regards as a potential threat to user privacy.

### Privacy Issues and Adherence to DMA

Apple has raised concerns about the European Commission’s request, stating that permitting the sharing of Wi-Fi connection histories with external parties could jeopardize user security. For instance, a rival like Meta could possibly monitor users’ whereabouts and behaviors via their Wi-Fi connections, resulting in targeted ads based on their location.

The European Commission’s mandate would require Apple to replicate the connectivity features of the Apple Watch with third-party devices. After thorough evaluation, Apple decided to deactivate the Wi-Fi syncing capability on the Apple Watch in Europe to comply with the DMA while upholding its privacy principles.

### User Experience Effects

The specific ramifications for Apple Watch users after the iOS 26.2 update are still uncertain. Reports indicate that the feature might remain functioning when the paired iPhone is in range, but complications could emerge when the iPhone is outside of range. However, Apple has not yet offered comprehensive details on how this modification will affect user experience.

### Conclusion

As Apple maneuvers through the intricacies of adhering to the EU’s DMA, the choice to disable Wi-Fi syncing between iPhones and Apple Watches in Europe underscores the ongoing conflict between regulatory demands and user privacy. The impending changes in iOS 26.2 will signify a notable transformation for users in the EU, raising concerns about the future of device compatibility and user experience in the region.

Apple Pursues Compensation of $540,000 Following Dismissal of Successful Lawsuit

**Apple and Amazon Pursue Reimbursement for Legal Fees After Price-Fixing Lawsuit Dismissal**

In September 2023, Apple and Amazon were exonerated from accusations in a price-fixing lawsuit linked to iPhones and iPads. The lawsuit, filed in 2022 by the law firm Hagens Berman on behalf of plaintiff Steven Floyd, alleged that the companies engaged in anticompetitive conduct aimed at reducing the number of resellers for these devices on Amazon’s platform. U.S. District Judge Kymberly Evanson dismissed the case, noting that Floyd’s departure from the case was marred by miscommunication from his legal representatives about his availability.

In the wake of the dismissal, Apple and Amazon submitted a petition to Judge Evanson, requesting reimbursement for legal fees resulting from what they term “well-documented misrepresentations” by Hagens Berman. The companies contend that these misrepresentations not only squandered court resources but also incurred unnecessary costs for them. Their filing cites Supreme Court precedents that permit the awarding of fees when attorneys behave in bad faith.

Specifically, Apple is asking for $540,000 in fees, while Amazon is requesting $1.4 million. A representative for Hagens Berman, Steve Berman, has indicated that the firms will “vigorously” oppose the fee request, claiming that the companies are not entitled to such reimbursements.

This legal dispute underscores ongoing tensions within the tech sector regarding competition and pricing strategies, as well as the intricacies involved in class action lawsuits. As the case unfolds, it will be imperative to track the developments and consequences for both companies and the wider market.

New AirPods Configuration in iOS 26 Tackles Frequent Bluetooth Problems

### iOS 26 Unveils ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ Functionality

iOS 26 comes loaded with fresh features, but one that captures the attention of numerous users is the launch of the ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ option. This newly introduced feature enables users to stop their AirPods’ audio from being automatically redirected to other Bluetooth speakers, such as in-car entertainment systems.

#### Management of Audio Streaming

If you often utilize AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones, you might have faced the annoyance of your iPhone’s audio unexpectedly shifting to a nearby Bluetooth speaker. This can be especially disruptive while enjoying music or podcasts, as the sound abruptly erupts from a speaker instead of your headphones.

Luckily, iOS 26 tackles this problem with a new setting that can be activated effortlessly. Although it defaults to off, users can turn it on to retain control over their audio output.

#### Steps to Activate ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’

To enable this feature on your iPhone running iOS 26, follow these easy instructions:

1. Launch the **Settings** app.
2. Tap on **General**.
3. Choose **AirPlay & Continuity**.
4. Switch on **Keep Audio with Headphones**.

This setting guarantees that when utilizing AirPods or other wireless headphones, your audio will stay with the headphones even if other devices, like speakers or vehicles, connect to your iPhone.

#### Apple’s Explanation of the Feature

Apple defines this feature as a means to maintain audio with headphones when other devices pair with your iPhone. This simple yet effective solution resolves a long-standing problem for many users seeking uninterrupted listening experiences.

#### User Preferences and Considerations

While some users might enjoy the prior automatic switching behavior, many are likely to embrace this new option. The rollout of ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ may also align well with the new support for automatic CarPlay switching, offering users greater control over their audio preferences.

#### Summary

The ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ feature in iOS 26 is a significant enhancement for AirPods users, granting them the ability to preserve their audio experience without unforeseen disruptions. This setting gives users the power to decide how their iPhones interact with surrounding devices, improving overall usability and satisfaction. Will you turn on this new feature for your AirPods?

iOS 26.2 Launch Date and New iPhone Features on the Horizon

Apple is developing new iPhone functionalities for iOS 26.2, the forthcoming major software upgrade currently undergoing beta testing. Here’s the anticipated launch date for iOS 26.2.

## iOS 26.2 is expected in December, probably around mid-month

iOS 26.1 has just been released with enhancements to AirPods Live Translation, Apple Music, additional customization options, and more. However, iOS 26.2 is already in beta testing with a release date approaching.

Apple has confirmed that iOS 26.2 will be available **in December** for all users. By examining the timing of the company’s past x.2 releases, we can better predict when the update will be rolled out.

– iOS 18.2: Wednesday, December 11
– iOS 17.2: Monday, December 11
– iOS 16.2: Tuesday, December 13
– iOS 15.2: Monday, December 13

As demonstrated, Apple regularly delivers iOS x.2 in mid-December before taking a break for the holidays. This year, iOS 26.2 may launch around Wednesday, December 10. It’s also possible that it might be released the following week, on or around Monday, December 15.

The beta phase for iOS 26.2 began a bit later than typical, starting on November 4 instead of last year’s October 23 introduction. Therefore, a launch by December 10 may be overly optimistic. Regardless of the specific week it is released, iOS 26.2 will be made available to all users no later than mid-December.

## New features in iOS 26.2

So far in the beta testing phase, iOS 26.2 is appearing to be a robust release filled with new functionalities. Here’s a summary of what to expect:

In general, it’s a feature-rich update that presents more user-facing changes compared to iOS 26.1. Additional features may also be included as the beta cycle progresses leading up to the December launch of iOS 26.2.

Which new features in iOS 26.2 are you most eager to see? Share your thoughts in the comments.