Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Aqara Presence Multi-Sensor FP300 Unveils Motion Automation and Thread Capabilities for HomeKit Smart Homes

### Aqara FP300: The Next Generation Presence Sensor for HomeKit Users

Aqara has introduced the FP300, a state-of-the-art presence sensor specifically engineered for HomeKit users desiring dependable automation without relying on cameras. This groundbreaking device merges mmWave presence sensing technology with a conventional PIR sensor, while also delivering measurements for light, temperature, and humidity. Notable features for Apple users include compatibility with Thread and Matter, facilitating smooth integration with the Home app for effective, room-aware automations.

#### What Makes FP300 Interesting for HomeKit

Presence detection is fundamentally different from simple motion detection. Conventional PIR sensors sense motion and cease operation once that movement stops. In contrast, mmWave technology can detect whether an individual is present in a room, even if they are stationary, such as working at a desk. The FP300 utilizes both technologies, enabling the PIR sensor to trigger quick wake-ups while the mmWave technology keeps automations active when someone remains in the room.

This integration boosts the consistency of automations linked to lighting and temperature management. The FP300 guarantees that lights do not switch off while someone is still in the room, only directing HomeKit to turn off once the room is truly vacant.

Moreover, the FP300 communicates light, temperature, and humidity levels, functioning effectively as a small brain for a room. This functionality enables smarter automations, as a single accessory can notify you of presence, brightness, and air quality.

#### HomeKit Automations You Can Build

Though the FP300 has yet to undergo testing, its features hint at various beneficial automations:

– **Smart Room Lighting**: Instantly illuminate lights upon detecting presence, dim them after a brief period of inactivity, and only switch them off once the room is vacant.

– **Bedroom Comfort Control**: If an individual is present and the temperature increases, activate a fan or decrease the thermostat. The fan will automatically shut off once the room cools down.

– **Office Lighting**: When presence is recognized and light levels dip, illuminate a desk lamp with a cooler white tone. Shift to warmer lighting in the evening if someone remains in the room.

– **Humidity-Based Automations**: If humidity levels surge while presence is identified, engage a HomeKit exhaust fan. The fan will turn off once humidity declines and the room is unoccupied.

– **Nighttime Hallways**: From sunset to sunrise, activate soft night lights in hallways or children’s rooms based on presence detection.

#### Thread and Matter Support

Thread support is a vital component of the FP300’s attractiveness. Presence sensors demand responsiveness, speed, and reliability, and Thread offers low-power, low-latency communication that isn’t reliant on Wi-Fi range. If you possess a modern Apple TV or HomePod, your HomeKit configuration likely already supports Thread.

Matter support is equally crucial. The FP300 appears in the Home app like any native accessory, removing the necessity for an extra bridge or hub (beyond an Apple TV or HomePod). Users can integrate it into scenes and automations, rename it, assign it to rooms, and utilize its data without depending solely on the Aqara app.

#### Where FP300 Fits in a HomeKit Setup

The FP300 is flexible enough to be employed in multiple rooms, including:

– **Living Room**: Maintain lamps on while individuals are present.

– **Kids’ Rooms**: Track motion, temperature, and humidity.

– **Entryway**: Take advantage of quick PIR wake-up to activate lights and mmWave technology for timely shutdown once the room is empty.

Presence sensors like the Aqara FP300 offer a beneficial solution for identifying people without the requirement for indoor cameras. The integration of mmWave and PIR technologies allows for efficient presence detection without infringing on privacy. This sensor enhances the smart home experience by enabling responsive lighting, effective fan management, and thoughtful automations.

#### Aqara FP300 Specs

Key specifications for Apple enthusiasts include:

– mmWave and PIR presence detection
– Built-in light, temperature, and humidity sensors
– Matter support over Thread
– Battery-operated design with a multi-year lifespan
– Compatibility with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and more
– Installable on walls, corners, or ceilings with included bracket

#### Wrap Up on Aqara FP300

The Aqara Presence Multi Sensor FP300 is set to be a great addition for HomeKit users seeking innovative motion sensing functionalities. With Thread support ensuring rapid and stable performance, alongside additional environmental sensors, the FP300 unlocks numerous possibilities for tracking and automations. On paper, it distinguishes itself as one of the most feature-packed presence sensors available for HomeKit users.

You can acquire the FP300 from

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Uncover the Ease of Apple Gift Cards for Utilizing Apple’s Premier Services

# Grasping Apple Gift Cards and Services

If you’re a supporter of Apple, it’s likely you received at least one Apple Gift Card during the holiday season. These gift cards are applicable for purchases in the App Store, Apple Store, and various Apple services such as Apple Music and Apple TV.

## Overview of Apple Services

Apple presents a range of services that can be utilized with Apple Gift Cards. Here’s a brief overview of the services currently offered:

– **[Apple Music](https://apple.co/48lJx2o)**: A music streaming service that provides access to over 100 million tracks.
– Cost: $10.99 per month

– **[Apple TV](https://apple.co/4qXELj0)**: Provides access to popular television series and films like *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, and *Pluribus*.
– Cost: $12.99 per month

– **[Apple Fitness+](https://apple.co/4pm7D34)**: A digital fitness platform featuring video workouts in 12 distinct workout categories.
– Cost: $9.99 per month

– **[Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/3XAbEEZ)**: A gaming subscription service with over 200 games, completely free of in-app purchases or advertisements.
– Cost: $6.99 per month

– **[Apple News+](https://apple.co/4i7bY7v)**: Offers access to leading stories and publications, daily puzzles, and comprehensive recipes.
– Cost: $12.99 per month

– **

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Apple Wallet Gets Two Key Feature Enhancements in iOS 26

Apple Wallet has rolled out a variety of new features in iOS 26, tackling earlier limitations and improving user engagement. Key among these enhancements are the inclusion of Digital ID and AI-enhanced order tracking.

### AI-Enhanced Order Tracking

First introduced in iOS 16, the order tracking functionality in Apple Wallet faced challenges in gaining popularity due to its dependence on external services. This reliance limited its efficiency, as numerous merchants opted to keep direct control over customer engagement. However, with improvements in iOS 26, Apple has overhauled this feature using Apple Intelligence.

Now, Wallet is capable of automatically pulling order information straight from confirmation emails sent by merchants and delivery providers. This advancement allows users to check their order status, receive progress notifications, and access other pertinent information all in one location without needing external cooperation. To utilize this feature, users can click the three-dot icon in the upper-right corner of Wallet and choose ‘Orders,’ where they can also set up push alerts for updates.

### Digital ID Without State Implementation Required

Apple’s goal to establish Wallet as a primary platform for digital identification has encountered obstacles, with just 12 states and Puerto Rico presently offering digital driver’s licenses. To bypass the sluggish rollout, Apple has launched the Digital ID feature in iOS 26.1.

Although Digital ID does not serve as a direct substitute for a driver’s license, it acts as a beneficial option for identity verification. Users can present their Digital ID at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights and at selected establishments for age confirmation. This feature is already accepted at over 250 airports across the US, with intentions for wider adoption. By promoting Digital ID, Apple aspires to motivate additional states to implement digital driver’s licenses in the future.

In summary, the updates to Apple Wallet in iOS 26, especially the launch of AI-driven order tracking and Digital ID, signify major advancements in transforming the app into a more all-encompassing tool for managing personal data and transactions.

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Crucial Applications for Your New Mac: Five Essentials

### Important Applications for Your New Mac

Whether you’ve recently bought your first Mac or upgraded to a more advanced model, installing the right tools is vital for optimizing productivity. Here’s a compilation of important applications that can elevate your Mac experience right from the start.

#### 1. Time Management: Toggl and Timery

Monitoring your time can greatly enhance your efficiency. For years, I have depended on [Toggl](https://toggl.com) for time tracking. To enhance Toggl, I utilize [Timery](https://timeryapp.com), which integrates smoothly with my Toggl account. Timery’s menu bar and widgets provide quick access to favorites, timers, and real-time task tracking. It also offers comprehensive reports that help illustrate time allocated to various projects. The synchronization between the Mac and iOS versions allows me to track my time wherever I am.

#### 2. Text Expansion: TextExpander

While macOS includes standard keyboard shortcuts, I consider [TextExpander](https://textexpander.com) invaluable. Its capacity to create tailored snippets and support for variables makes it perfect for replying to emails, completing forms, and quickly preparing documents. For those seeking more than the built-in functionalities, TextExpander is a worthwhile investment.

#### 3. Bluetooth Management: AirBuddy

[AirBuddy](https://v2.airbuddy.app) improves the experience of using Bluetooth devices with your Mac. Originally created for AirPods, it now accommodates various Bluetooth accessories, including non-Apple devices like my Logitech MX Master mouse. AirBuddy offers low battery notifications, keyboard shortcuts for tweaking settings, and other automations that simplify device management.

#### 4. Automation: Keyboard Maestro

One of the first applications I install on a new Mac is [Keyboard Maestro](https://www.keyboardmaestro.com/main/). This robust automation tool enables me to establish custom macros for different tasks, such as initiating a QuickTime recording when a designated microphone connects or managing clipboard history. Although it may appear challenging initially, resources like David Sparks’ [Keyboard Maestro Field Guide](https://learn.macsparky.com/p/km) and the active community forum can assist users in maximizing this tool’s potential.

#### 5. Writing: Ulysses

After experimenting with several writing applications,

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Leaker Confirms: iPhone Air 2 Anticipated to Debut in 2026, Contradicting Earlier speculations

**The Prospective Launch of the iPhone Air 2: Current Speculations and Prospects**

The buzz surrounding the iPhone Air 2 has been characterized by a barrage of contradictory information, with conjecture ranging from possible delays to early launches. Fresh rumors have ignited renewed curiosity, indicating that the second-generation model might arrive sooner than anticipated.

### Recent Revelations from Insiders

In a recent update by leaker Fixed Focus Digital on Weibo, it appears that Apple is ready to present the iPhone Air 2 at its upcoming autumn event, commonly held in early September. This statement sharply contradicts previous reports from *The Information*, which suggested that Apple had taken the iPhone Air 2 off its launch schedule without offering a replacement timeline. Additionally, a follow-up report from the same source hinted at a revamped version of the iPhone Air 2 featuring an additional camera lens, potentially set to debut in spring 2027 alongside the standard iPhone 18 models.

Alongside the iPhone Air 2, Fixed Focus Digital also indicated that the iPhone 17e is anticipated to debut at Apple’s spring event, usually scheduled for March. Their post highlighted the certainty of the iPhone Air’s successor, declaring, “Trust my words: The iPhone Air’s successor is confirmed to be on the way, premiering at the autumn launch event.”

### Responding to Consumer Feedback

The iPhone Air 2 is expected to address several significant criticisms that affected its predecessor. Reports indicate that Apple is re-evaluating the design, with considerations for an additional camera and a possible price drop. This redesign aims to boost the device’s attractiveness and functionality, responding to user feedback seeking enhancements in camera features and cost-effectiveness.

### Anticipating the iPhone 17e

As for the iPhone 17e, it is projected to be a minor upgrade compared to the iPhone 16e. *The Information* has revealed that the new variant will incorporate a C1X modem and a glass back that enables magnetic wireless charging—an improvement that many users found lacking in the former version.

### Summary

As the tech world keenly waits for more validation from Apple, the rumors surrounding the iPhone Air 2 continue to build anticipation. Whether the device will indeed launch in the fall still remains uncertain, but the prospects for notable upgrades and enhancements could make it a significant entry in Apple’s offerings. As always, users are invited to express their opinions on the expected release in the comments.

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Tim Cook Purchases 50,000 Shares of Nike, Drawing Investor Interest

**Tim Cook Reinforces Commitment to Nike: A Vote of Assurance Amidst Difficulties**

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook, a longstanding board member of Nike, has recently captured attention by increasing his investment in the athletic apparel behemoth. This tactical decision follows Nike’s lackluster quarterly results, which caused the company’s shares to decline by 13%. Cook’s financial commitment is seen as an expression of trust in Nike’s management and future opportunities.

### Tim Cook’s Enduring Association with Nike

Tim Cook has been linked to Nike since 2005, having served on its board for nearly twenty years. In 2016, he became the lead independent director after Nike co-founder Phil Knight retired. Cook’s enthusiasm for the brand is apparent in his public appearances, often showcasing stylish Nike footwear, further cementing his affiliation with the company.

### Recent Share Acquisition

On December 22, Cook procured 50,000 shares of Nike at a price of $58.97 each, raising his total holdings to 105,480 shares. This acquisition was particularly well-timed given the sharp fall in Nike’s stock following the release of its quarterly earnings on December 18. The report fell short of investor expectations, resulting in a significant drop in share value.

However, in the wake of Cook’s stock purchase announcement, Nike’s shares climbed back by around 5% at the market’s opening. This rise was additionally bolstered by another noteworthy investment from Bob Swan, the former CEO of Intel, who purchased 8,791 shares.

### Analyst Insights

Market analysts consider Cook’s investment a robust endorsement of Nike’s current CEO, Elliott Hill, especially during a testing phase for the company. Jonathan Komp, an analyst at Baird Equity Research, pointed out that Cook’s purchase marks the largest open market stock buy by a Nike director or executive in over ten years. He underlined that this action indicates positive momentum under Hill’s guidance and Nike’s strategic efforts to rejuvenate the brand.

### Conclusion

Tim Cook’s choice to bolster his investment in Nike acts as a significant indicator to both investors and the broader market. It suggests not only his personal faith in the brand but also a greater confidence in the company’s potential for recovery and expansion under its present leadership. As Nike tackles its obstacles, Cook’s investment may foster renewed hope among stakeholders and investors alike.

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iPhone 18 Pro Camera Sensors Anticipated to Be Produced in the USA

At least a portion of the camera sensors for the iPhone 18 Pro are slated to be produced in the USA, specifically at a Samsung facility located in Austin, Texas. The fabrication of these cutting-edge image sensors is expected to begin around March, signaling that they will be aimed at the iPhone 18 Pro.

The Samsung facility in Austin is not unfamiliar; however, it has not engaged in the manufacturing of camera sensors before. A recent report from The Elec indicates that Samsung is gearing up to install production machinery for iPhone image sensors at this site. Additionally, the company has advertised job vacancies for mechanical and electrical project managers to supervise the setup at the fab.

The report highlights a method referred to as “wafer-to-wafer hybrid bonding where three wafers are stacked,” which corresponds with prior conversations regarding a three-layer stacked camera sensor. This state-of-the-art technology has reportedly allowed Samsung to obtain part of Apple’s camera sensor business, which has historically been led by Sony.

A stacked sensor arrangement involves placing the processing electronics directly onto the rear of the sensor. A three-layer variant would incorporate additional circuitry with the sensor, potentially boosting signal processing speeds and enhancing camera responsiveness. Moreover, stacked sensors might minimize specific sources of noise, thus improving image quality.

Considering the advanced characteristics of this sensor and the anticipated timelines, it is probable that it will make its debut in the two iPhone 18 Pro models. The regular iPhone 18 is projected to be released in the spring, suggesting that the manufacturing of this sensor would be too late for it to be included in that model. Apple is expected to prioritize the launch of its most sophisticated sensor in the Pro variants first.

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Vince Gilligan Discloses the Title of Pluribus to the Primary Cast

### Behind the Scenes of “Pluribus” Season One

Apple TV has recently presented an intriguing behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creation of its new series, “Pluribus.” This informative video showcases interviews with the cast and crew, offering viewers a more profound comprehension of the show’s concept and production journey.

#### The Significance of “Pluribus”

As the inaugural season of “Pluribus” wrapped up, Apple TV published a video on its YouTube channel that features interviews and behind-the-scenes clips. The term “Pluribus,” which means “of many,” embodies the show’s themes and narrative intricacy. The video captures the moment when creator Vince Gilligan disclosed the show’s title and its importance to the cast, including Rhea Seehorn (Carol), Karolyna Wydra (Zosia), and Carlos-Manuel Vesga (Manousos).

#### Production Insights

The behind-the-scenes footage illustrates various facets of production, including the creation of significant sets like Carol’s neighborhood and Air Force One. It also emphasizes the careful location scouting undertaken to depict the various countries featured throughout the series. The choreography aimed at establishing the right ambiance with the “Others” is another key topic of conversation.

#### Spoiler Alert

Viewers should be aware that the video includes spoilers from the first season. It is advisable to watch all nine episodes of “Pluribus” prior to viewing the behind-the-scenes material to prevent any plot disclosures.

#### Availability

“Pluribus” is available for streaming on Apple TV, which provides a subscription service for $12.99 per month. The platform includes a variety of well-known shows and films, such as “Severance,” “The Morning Show,” and “Silo.”

For those keen on delving into the creative process behind “Pluribus,” the behind-the-scenes video can be located on Apple TV’s YouTube channel, offering fans an enriching viewpoint on the series.

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Challenging the Efficacy of the $20,000 Apple Developer Academy Training Initiative

The Apple Developer Academy in Detroit has become a central topic of conversation concerning its effectiveness and the financial support that maintains it. Introduced as a component of Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, the academy seeks to offer training in software development and app design, specifically targeting communities of color.

Spanning a duration of ten months, the program encompasses key skills such as the Swift programming language, interface prototyping, and business knowledge. While Apple serves as the main sponsor, a recent report indicates that Michigan taxpayers play a significant role in funding the academy. In fact, Apple has financed around 40% of the total $29.6 million expense over four years, with taxpayers contributing close to half of that total.

In spite of the considerable investment, concerns have been raised regarding the program’s effectiveness in helping graduates secure employment. Although 71% of graduates from the past two years found full-time positions, this rate is regarded as average when compared to other coding schools. Critics highlight that numerous students feel ill-equipped for the job market, pointing to vague project goals set by small businesses as an obstacle to garnering pertinent experience.

Apple advocates for the program, arguing that the skills learned are applicable beyond coding positions and can lead to a variety of career opportunities. The discussion continues as stakeholders evaluate whether the academy fulfills its intended objectives and provides value for the resources invested by both Apple and taxpayers.

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