Next Year’s MacBook Pro Redesign Anticipated: Five Expected Improvements

**Apple’s Future MacBook Pro Overhaul: Anticipations for 2026**

Speculations are circulating regarding a major overhaul of the MacBook Pro, expected to launch in 2026, marking five years since its last substantial update. Here are five primary features anticipated in this fresh version.

### OLED Screen

Apple is poised to implement OLED screen technology in the MacBook Pro for the first time. Following its successful introduction in the iPad Pro in 2024, the OLED displays are anticipated to offer increased brightness, better contrast ratios, and more vibrant colors. Reports indicate that Apple will employ Tandem OLED technology, which comprises two layers of RGB, boosting both brightness and durability compared to conventional displays.

Furthermore, the redesign might remove the existing notch in favor of a smaller camera hole cutout, potentially giving the display a more streamlined look.

### Sleeker Design

The forthcoming MacBook Pro is believed to feature a new, sleeker design. Although specific details are limited, this modification is expected to enhance portability without sacrificing performance. The redesign aims to incorporate the latest technological innovations while upholding the elegant aesthetic Apple is recognized for.

### Touchscreen Functionality

Experts foresee that the 2026 MacBook Pro will include touchscreen functionality, marking a notable change for Apple’s laptop range. This advancement aligns with increasing consumer demand for more interactive gadgets and could boost productivity and usability for creative users.

### Cellular Connectivity

For the first time, Apple may implement cellular connectivity in the MacBook Pro. Reports suggest that the company is developing an in-house modem, enabling users to link to mobile networks directly from their laptops. This feature would offer enhanced flexibility and convenience for users on the move.

### State-of-the-Art M6 Chip

The new MacBook Pro is set to launch with Apple’s M6 chip lineup, utilizing TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm technology. This new generation of chips is expected to provide considerable performance enhancements. While the M6 Pro and M6 Max versions are confirmed, there is some doubt regarding the availability of a base model featuring the M6 chip at the time of launch.

### Launch Timeline

The revamped MacBook Pro is anticipated to be revealed between late 2026 and early 2027, with speculation suggesting an announcement in October. However, limited availability may follow the initial release, echoing previous product launch trends.

### Final Thoughts

The 2026 MacBook Pro overhaul is gearing up to be a groundbreaking update, especially with the incorporation of OLED technology. While awaiting the new model, consumers can benefit from discounts on the existing M4 Pro and M5 models, which are currently offered at reduced prices. As excitement grows, the next generation of MacBook Pro is expected to introduce cutting-edge features that address the changing needs of users.

Evaluation of MagSafe Battery Pack: An Answer to Substitute Various Chargers [Video]

Kuxiu S3 10,000mAh Battery Pack: An In-Depth Review

I have evaluated numerous MagSafe battery packs throughout the years, ranging from sleek designs to bulkier options, as well as low-capacity chargers and substantial power banks intended to replace everything at once. Most of the battery packs I assess perform adequately; they fulfill their purpose. However, the Kuxiu S3 10,000mAh battery pack achieves an excellent equilibrium of simplicity, multifunctionality, and, above all, dependability. Here’s what you need to know about their new solid-state battery pack.

Solid-state Batteries

Before diving into the review, it’s essential to address solid-state batteries. Gradually, we are observing brands and manufacturers transitioning to solid-state batteries for several reasons. They offer:

• Enhanced efficiency
• Greater safety
• Reduced heat generation during charging
• Significantly lighter than older battery technologies with equivalent capacity

I liken this shift in batteries to that of storage solutions. We moved away from spinning disk hard drives, which had multiple failure points due to the disk, moving components, and unreliable performance, towards SSDs (Solid State Drives). SSD storage operates silently, has no moving parts, and has proven to be far more reliable over time. The same principle applies to solid-state batteries. They simply excel in nearly every aspect.

Now that we understand the benefits of solid-state batteries, let’s discuss this new MagSafe battery pack.

Versatile Features

I am quite fond of tech accessories that offer a variety of functions, giving the impression of enhanced value from a single item. This battery can accomplish an array of tasks. First, let’s take a look at the specifications:

• 10,000mAh capacity
• Qi2.2 25W wireless charging (for iPhone 16 or newer)
• Qi2 15W wireless charging (for iPhone 15 and older)
• Up to 35W wired charging via built-in USB-C cable
• Simultaneous wired + MagSafe charging
• Real-time LED display showing percentage (0–100%)
• Kickstand for viewing

As demonstrated above, this adaptability is particularly advantageous for someone like me, who relies on their iPad Pro as their main computer.

My Use Cases

To start, this is a Qi2.2 25W charger. It will power up your iPhone 16 or newer (running iOS 16) at optimal speeds. This is fantastic for when you need a quick charge for your iPhone. Being a large battery, it also has the capability to charge your iPhone 17 Pro Max at least two times without any problems. I like to use this with my iPhone Air while I’m out and about or making a quick food stop. I can charge at maximum speed while also propping it up with the kickstand to watch some content as I eat.

On the other hand, my second use case involves the integrated braided cable and wired charging. The cable is exceptionally well constructed and of high caliber. The most impressive feature is its support for 35W charging speeds, allowing me to nearly charge my iPad at full speed with the built-in wired cable. This is incredibly useful when I’m on the go. I can simultaneously charge my iPad without issues using the same battery for my iPhone. If desired, I could charge an iPhone through MagSafe and my iPad while plugged in. It may slightly reduce the charging speed, but it remains feasible! The icing on the cake is the built-in display that indicates the remaining battery percentage.

Pricing & Availability

The Kuxiu S3 is currently available on Kuxiu’s website for just under $70. They are also running holiday specials, so you might find it at a lower price!

Final Thoughts

This battery fulfills all the criteria I desire in a portable battery pack. I can utilize it in various ways with any of my devices. If I wanted to, I could even charge my MacBook Air with this battery! If you’re in search of a new MagSafe battery pack to bring along when you’re out, I consider the Kuxiu S3 to be a worthwhile option.

Discovering ‘AnywAIr’: An Independent Application for Utilizing Local AI Models on Your iPhone

# Indie App Spotlight: AnywAIr – Local AI at Your Fingertips

Welcome to Indie App Spotlight, a weekly series that highlights the newest advancements in the indie app sphere. This week, we focus on **AnywAIr**, an exciting iOS application that enables users to engage with AI models without requiring an internet connection.

## Top Features

AnywAIr, a clever twist on the term “anywhere,” utilizes the strengths of Apple silicon to deliver local AI functionality directly to your iPhone. Here are some of its key features:

1. **Support for Various AI Models**: The app supports both MLX and Llama models, offering users a range of choices. Notable models available include Qwen 2.5, Gemma 3, and Llama 3.2, among others.

2. **Privacy-Centric**: A major benefit of utilizing local AI models is enhanced privacy. With AnywAIr, your discussions and interactions stay on your device, reducing the risk of data exposure to AI firms.

3. **Fun Games**: AnywAIr features several engaging, LLM-powered games like “guess the word,” “story scramble,” and “spin the bottle,” transforming it into not just a tool, but also a source of enjoyment.

4. **Offline Translation Tool**: The app offers a translation tool, which can be especially beneficial when you’re without an internet connection.

## Download the App

AnywAIr is free to download from the App Store, offering a basic experience that lets users explore its features. For those looking to unlock additional games, models, and themes, a one-time fee of $9.99 provides lifetime access, or you can choose a $14.99 version to provide further support to the developer.

Discover the potential of local AI with AnywAIr and relish the mix of utility and enjoyment it brings to your iOS device.

Incogni Provides Solutions to Eliminate Your Social Security Number and Additional Sensitive Data from the Web

### The Concealed Dangers of Personal Data Exposure and How to Safeguard Yourself

In the contemporary digital landscape, safeguarding personal data has emerged as a critical issue. Many people might be taken aback to find that their Social Security numbers, contact numbers, addresses, and birth dates are frequently available for acquisition. This troubling situation is primarily due to the presence of data brokers—entities that gather, purchase, and trade personal information from multiple sources, including websites and app creators.

#### Comprehending Data Brokers

Data brokers function within a clandestine marketplace, accumulating extensive volumes of personal information that can be sold to advertisers, marketers, and even malicious actors. When users sign up on websites or install apps, they often consent to privacy agreements that allow these firms to distribute their data. Regrettably, most users overlook these extensive documents, which typically feature ambiguous language regarding data sharing.

While several companies utilize this information to customize advertisements, the direst scenario involves hackers acquiring this data, resulting in identity theft and fraudulent activities. A straightforward Google inquiry can reveal how much personal information is accessible online, encompassing sensitive details about relatives and employment backgrounds.

#### The Difficulty of Data Elimination

Individuals worried about their privacy might attempt to submit requests for data removal to data brokers. Nevertheless, this endeavor can be tedious and disheartening. Numerous brokers conceal the required links or impose intricate criteria for data elimination. Even if successful, individuals frequently discover their information resurfacing as fresh data is perpetually generated.

#### An Easier Solution: Incogni

To address these obstacles, services like Incogni provide a more streamlined solution. Incogni is dedicated to erasing personal data from the internet by actively challenging hundreds of data brokers on behalf of users. This service is not merely a one-off remedy; it persistently works to ensure that sensitive data is erased from various platforms, including genealogy websites and social media networks.

With Incogni’s Unlimited plan, users can also submit links they uncover themselves, enabling the service to manage the removal procedure. This proactive method significantly alleviates the load on individuals seeking to safeguard their privacy.

#### Real-World Consequences

The threats associated with personal data exposure are not just hypothetical. Numerous individuals have faced the repercussions directly. For example, one Reddit user shared that a scammer gained access to their phone number, home address, and the identities of their family members, resulting in unsolicited calls and harassment.

#### Conclusion

As personal data increasingly turns into a commodity, vigilance and proactive strategies are crucial for protecting privacy. Utilizing services like Incogni can empower individuals to regain control over their personal information and lessen the risks linked with data brokers. For those interested, a limited-time promotional offer currently provides a 55% discount for readers of 9to5Mac, creating an opportunity to enhance personal data security affordably.

2025 Gift Guide for Apple Enthusiasts: Professionally Evaluated and Endorsed Items

# 2025 Technology Gift Guide for Apple Users

With the festive season on the horizon, it’s time to start crossing off gifts for the Apple aficionados in your circle. This guide highlights tech products that have demonstrated their utility over the year, making them ideal presents for Apple users.

## Nomad Tracking Card

For anyone who has misplaced their wallet, a dependable tracker is vital. The **Nomad Tracking Card** works effortlessly with Apple’s Find My network, enabling users to track down lost belongings, get alerts when they forget something, and monitor luggage during trips. Unlike other trackers, the Nomad card is rechargeable via MagSafe and lasts around five months on a single charge. Priced at $29.99, it’s currently discounted by 25% for Prime members during Cyber Monday.

## BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller

For parents or anyone aiming to elevate their mobile gaming experience, the **BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller** is revolutionary. Compatible with iPhone 15 and later models, along with Android devices featuring USB-C, this controller turns your phone into a console-like gaming system. Selling for $99.99, it’s offered at 20% off during Cyber Monday.

## Mophie Powerstation Wireless Slim

Battery longevity is vital for heavy iPhone users, and the **Mophie Powerstation Wireless Slim** is an essential accessory. This 10,000 mAh power bank supports 15W MagSafe wireless charging and 30W USB-C PD fast charging. Ideal for on-the-go charging, it can even power devices like iPads. The standard version retails for $79.95, with options for a stand or a more streamlined model available.

## Aurzen BOOM Air Projector

The **Aurzen BOOM Air projector** is a cutting-edge device for film lovers. With integrated Google TV software, it lets users stream content directly from Apple TV or other sources through HDMI. Currently priced at $179.99, reduced from $299, it includes an adjustable stand, automatic focus, and can be powered by a USB-C power bank, making it adaptable for any environment.

## OWC Ultra Fast External SSD

For those in need of additional storage, the **OWC Ultra Fast External SSD** ranks as a premium option. This SSD provides contemporary Thunderbolt speeds, operates silently, and preserves performance with large files. The 2TB version is priced at $349.99, currently on sale for $279.99. It’s a superb investment for anyone aiming to enhance their storage capabilities.

## Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station

The **Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station** is great for those owning multiple Apple devices. It allows for the concurrent charging of an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. The latest version, featuring faster charging options, retails for $119.99 but is priced at $77.75 during Cyber Monday.

## OtterBox 2-in-1 Crossbody Strap

The **OtterBox 2-in-1 Crossbody Strap** is a handy accessory for iPhone owners. It facilitates easy transport of the device, decreasing the likelihood of forgetting it. Priced at $54.99, it’s currently available for $26.39, making it a budget-friendly gift choice.

## Mixx Analog System 5 Hi-Fi Vinyl Record Player

For vinyl lovers, the **Mixx Analog System 5** provides a chic way to enjoy music. This record player comes equipped with wireless speakers and supports both optical and Bluetooth connections. Priced at $299.99, it’s a fantastic gift for those who value both sound and design.

## Level Lock Pro

The **Level Lock Pro** is a smart door lock that merges functionality with style. It enables users to unlock their doors with their iPhone or Apple Watch and integrates with Apple’s Home app for automation. This lock makes a thoughtful gift for anyone aiming to boost their home security.

## Conclusion

This tech gift guide presents an array of products that meet the needs of Apple users, ensuring you discover the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Whether it’s a practical accessory or an entertaining gadget, these suggestions are bound to leave a mark.

Apple @ Work: The Significance of ABM Warranty and New Business Manager APIs for IT Teams

**Apple Business Manager API and ABM Warranty: A New Chapter for IT Administration of Apple Devices**

The administration of Apple devices within enterprise settings has consistently presented distinct challenges, especially in tracking warranties and device statuses. Nevertheless, with the advent of the Apple Business Manager API, IT teams now have the ability to access device data in a secure and streamlined way, enhancing the management of extensive fleets of Apple devices.

**Grasping the Apple Business Manager API**

The Apple Business Manager API grants third-party tools secure access to device data directly from Apple. This functionality is vital for IT departments tasked with efficiently managing a multitude of devices. By unveiling more device details and management features through official APIs, Apple is empowering developers to craft applications that fulfill enduring requirements within the IT sector.

**Presenting ABM Warranty**

One pivotal application is ABM Warranty, designed to supply IT teams with a simplified method to access Apple device warranty details. This tool extracts warranty data embedded in Apple Business Manager and displays it in a user-friendly format. With capabilities such as color coding to signify warranty status—whether devices are under warranty, out of warranty, or nearing expiration—ABM Warranty streamlines the decision-making process regarding device repairs and replacements.

**Essential Features of ABM Warranty**

– **Thorough Warranty Overview**: ABM Warranty provides a transparent display of warranty statuses for all devices, enabling IT teams to promptly identify which devices need attention.
– **Filtering and Exporting**: Users can filter devices by platform and export data to CSV files, facilitating integration with other IT management systems.
– **In-depth Device Insights**: The application delivers historical coverage details for individual devices, including any AppleCare Plus incidents, ensuring that IT teams have all relevant information readily available.
– **Upcoming Enhancements**: The future roadmap for ABM Warranty includes features like keychain-based certificate selection and integration with Apple School Manager, promising enhanced functionality.

**The Influence of Apple’s API on IT Administration**

The launch of the Apple Business Manager API signifies a noteworthy transformation in how IT teams interact with Apple devices. For years, there has been a need for increased visibility into warranty statuses and repair records, and the API addresses this by offering structured data access. This transformation not only boosts the capabilities of tools like ABM Warranty but also sets the stage for further advancements in IT management solutions.

**Final Thoughts**

For organizations overseeing Apple devices in large quantities, tools like ABM Warranty are becoming indispensable elements of their operational procedures. With the groundwork laid by Apple’s API access, IT teams can finally achieve the visibility they have long desired, leading to more educated decision-making concerning device management. By utilizing applications like ABM Warranty, organizations can optimize their processes and guarantee that their Apple devices remain well-supported and efficient.

For those keen on exploring ABM Warranty, it is available for download on the Mac App Store, enabling organizations to commence managing their warranty data effectively with minimal setup.

SwitchBot Wallet Tracker: A Handy Tool for Locating Your Wallet Using iPhone’s Find My Function

### SwitchBot Wallet Finder: An In-Depth Analysis

#### Overview
For individuals who frequently lose their wallets, the SwitchBot Wallet Finder provides a practical remedy. Unlike larger tracking gadgets such as the AirTag, the Wallet Finder is crafted to blend effortlessly into your wallet, offering an effective means to monitor your possessions.

#### Installation
The process of setting up the SwitchBot Wallet Finder is simple. Users can link it directly with the Apple Find My app without the necessity of downloading the SwitchBot app. The steps involve launching the Find My app, choosing “Add Item,” and pressing the button on the Wallet Finder card. After assigning a name to the device and selecting an emoji for easy recognition, it can be stashed in a wallet pocket.

#### Tracking Method
The Wallet Finder employs Bluetooth technology instead of GPS. It sends out a low-energy Bluetooth signal that can be detected by nearby Apple devices. This signal is then transmitted to the Find My network, allowing users to find their wallet even from a distance, as long as there are Apple devices in the vicinity. The system incurs no ongoing subscription costs, making it a budget-friendly choice.

The efficiency of the Find My network is apparent, as location updates happen swiftly when the wallet is stationary and in proximity to other iOS devices. In cases where the wallet is in motion, updates might trail slightly behind the real-time situation.

Users have the option to mark their wallet as lost, enabling those who come across it to obtain the owner’s contact details via the Identify Found Item feature in Find My. The forthcoming iOS 18.2 update is set to further enhance this capability.

#### Locating Nearby with the Speaker
Although the Wallet Finder does not include the ultra-wideband technology present in the AirTag, it makes up for this by having a built-in speaker that emits a loud sound when activated. This is particularly beneficial for finding a misplaced wallet at home. Users can effortlessly trigger the sound using the Find My app or through Siri, ensuring quick retrieval of the wallet.

#### Safety and Tracking
The SwitchBot Wallet Finder is primarily intended for recovering lost items rather than tracking people. If the card becomes detached from its owner, it produces a noise to alert nearby individuals and sends notifications to nearby iPhones. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that someone else can turn off the Find My connection by executing a specific shutdown procedure.

#### Summary
The SwitchBot Wallet Finder represents a practical and economical solution for those wanting to keep tabs on their wallets. Its compact design enables easy placement within a wallet, and it even features a hole for lanyard or keychain attachment if preferred.

A potential drawback is that the Wallet Finder is a single-use device with an approximate battery lifespan of three years, after which it cannot be replaced. Nevertheless, considering the worth of the items generally held in a wallet, acquiring a new Wallet Finder when the battery expires may be a sensible choice for numerous users.

Apple Shuts Down ‘The Last Frontier’ Following Its Inaugural Season

Apple has opted to cancel “The Last Frontier” following its inaugural season. Here are the specifics.

## No Season 2 for ‘The Last Frontier’

Despite Apple’s attempts to market “The Last Frontier” and what initially appeared to be a promising launch, Apple has chosen to terminate the series after merely one season, as noted by *Variety*.

The Jason Clarke-starring series debuted last October to largely favorable reviews, but it seemingly struggled to keep its early success as it moved toward its season conclusion on December 5th.

On IMDb, episode scores varied from 7.7 for the pilot to the lowest-rated episode being the finale, which received a score of 6.2.

“The Last Frontier” narrates the tale of U.S. Marshal Frank Remnick, portrayed by Jason Clarke, who becomes engaged in a manhunt for numerous violent convicts after a prison transport aircraft inexplicably crashes near a rough Alaskan town.

Apple approved “The Last Frontier” in February 2023 with a direct-to-series decision, indicating it committed to producing the full season without initially filming a pilot episode.

“The Last Frontier” now joins other series such as “Mr. Corman,” “Constellation,” “City On Fire,” “Suspicion,” “Shantaram,” “High Desert,” “Sunny,” “Time Bandits,” “Still Up,” “Dear Edward,” and “Amber Brown,” all of which were cancelled after just one season.

Apple TV is offered for $12.99 monthly and showcases popular TV shows and films like “Severance,” “The Studio,” “The Morning Show,” “Shrinking,” and “Silo.”

ChatGPT Includes a Festive Easter Surprise Driven by Sora

As Sam Altman hinted on X, you can prompt ChatGPT with a single emoji and receive a customized Christmas-themed video created by Sora in return. Here’s how to do it.

## Prompt ChatGPT with 🎁, Get a Customized Video

Earlier this evening, Sam Altman shared a teaser on X, as he often does. It wasn’t long before users discovered that sending 🎁 as a prompt to ChatGPT will lead it to request you to either upload or take a selfie.

Subsequently, it will transfer the task to Sora to produce a humorous, personalized Christmas video, based on ChatGPT’s knowledge about you from previous interactions.

You have no influence over what Sora generates, meaning you can’t select the aesthetics, theme, or events in the video. Here’s what it created for me:

Here’s what Sora generated for an X user who uploaded Altman’s selfie instead of their own:

Currently, you cannot create multiple videos, so if you initiate a new chat session and send 🎁 again, it will simply return the same video.

What do you think about ChatGPT’s holiday easter egg? If you choose to try this out, please share the results with us in the comments.

Apple TV’s Newest Nature Docuseries Now Ready for Streaming

### Born to be Wild: An In-Depth Exploration of Animal Conservation

‘[Born to be Wild](https://apple.co/3Y5NVwG)’ is a freshly launched wildlife docuseries on Apple TV, narrated by Hugh Bonneville, recognized for his performances in ‘[Notting Hill](https://apple.co/4pPdApi)’ and ‘[Paddington](https://apple.co/3IobADT)’. This series adds to Apple TV’s growing collection of natural world programming, illustrating the complex interactions between humans and animals.

#### Series Overview

All six episodes of ‘[Born to be Wild](https://apple.co/3Y5NVwG)’ are currently available for streaming. The series was filmed over several years across five continents, centering on the lives of six endangered young animals as they journey through their developmental stages. The docuseries emphasizes the obstacles and achievements faced by these creatures and the passionate individuals committed to safeguarding them.

#### Themes and Subject Matter

The series offers an emotional and personal view of the strong connections established between animals and humans. Each episode follows the story of animals such as an elephant calf, two young cheetahs, a ring-tailed lemur pup, a moon bear cub, Iberian lynx kittens, and rescued African penguins.

Apple defines the show as follows:

> “From their first moments to their transition into the wild, the series showcases the difficulties, victories, and resilience that characterize their survival — for both the animals and the extraordinary people dedicated to nurturing and protecting them.”

This narrative framework highlights the crucial role of conservation efforts and the significance of human involvement in rehabbing and rewilding these species to secure their future.

#### Access and Subscription Details

Viewers can check out the trailer for ‘[Born to be Wild](https://apple.co/3Y5NVwG)’ on Apple TV. The service is offered at a subscription rate of $12.99 per month, featuring a range of popular films and shows, including titles like ‘[Severance](https://apple.co/4mI15ey)’, ‘[The Studio](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-studio/umc.cmc.7518algxc4lsoobtsx30dqb52?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.7518algxc4lsoobtsx30dqb52&at=1000l3cFK)’, ‘[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=1000l3cFK)’, ‘[Shrinking](https://tv.apple.com/show/shrinking/umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs&at=1000l3cFK)’, and ‘[Silo](https://tv.apple.com/show/silo/umc.cmc.3yksgc857px0k0rqe5zd4jice?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.3yksgc857px0k0rqe5zd4jice&at=1000l3cFK)’.

#### Final Thoughts

‘