AllYouCanTech

Apple Unveils Significant App Store and iPhone Enhancements in Japan

Apple has revealed considerable modifications to the App Store and iPhone in Japan to adhere to the Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA). These modifications provide new app distribution avenues for developers and alternative payment regulations for the App Store.

In a recent statement, Apple indicated that the MSCA requirements in Japan for alternative app marketplaces and app payments might pose risks like malware, fraud, and privacy issues. Nevertheless, Apple collaborated with Japanese authorities to strike a balance that fulfills the law while safeguarding users.

### App Distribution in Japan

Developers in Japan are now able to distribute their applications through alternative app marketplaces apart from the App Store. Apple will perform a Notarization review on all applications, including automated checks and human evaluations to ensure their functionality and security.

### New Payment Options

The update brings modifications to the payment methods on the App Store:

– Developers can continue utilizing Apple In-App Purchase (IAP) as is.
– Alternative payment methods for digital goods/services within iOS applications are now allowed. Developers can:
– Provide digital goods and services via an alternative payment processor.
– Direct users to external offers/promotions through clickable links that open in a web browser.

If an application employs an alternative payment method, it must also offer Apple IAP as an option at the same time.

### New Business Terms

Apple is launching new business terms concerning App Store payments and distribution:

– **App Store Commission**: A lower commission of 10% for specific programs and 21% on transactions involving digital goods/services.
– **Apple Payment Processing Fee**: An extra 5% fee for utilizing Apple IAP.
– **Store Services Commission**: A 15% commission on transactions connected to websites, with a reduced rate for particular programs.
– **Core Technology Commission**: A 5% commission on sales of digital goods and services distributed outside the App Store.

### Kids’ Safety

Apple has instituted measures to ensure the protection of children with the new app distribution and payment methods:

– Applications categorized under Kids will not include links to external websites for transactions.
– Applications accessed by users under 18 must have a parental gate for purchases made through alternative payment processing.
– Applications aimed at users under 13 cannot link to websites for transactions.
– Apple is creating a new API for developers to facilitate parental oversight of purchases made outside of Apple IAP.

### iOS Platform Changes

With the update to iOS 26.2, iPhone users in Japan will experience new features, including:

– Default controls for navigation applications and app marketplaces can be adjusted in the Settings app.
– A new screen for selecting a browser and a search engine choice screen will be introduced.
– Developers will receive new tools, including options for utilizing alternative browser engines and an API for voice-based conversational applications to replace Siri as the default assistant.

These modifications take effect immediately with the launch of iOS 26.2. Developers can find additional information on the Apple Developer Support page and in Apple’s complete press release.

Apple to Launch More Advertisements in App Store Search Outcomes

Apple is increasing the quantity of advertisements displayed in App Store search outcomes. In an update on its Apple Ads webpage, the firm stated that it will roll out additional ads “to enhance opportunities in search results” commencing next year.

### New App Store Search Ads Placements

At present, there is one ad slot at the top of search results in the App Store. For instance, when searching for “Facebook,” you might notice an ad for TikTok at the top of the results. This occurs because TikTok is targeting certain search keywords and has secured the auction for that position.

In its communication, Apple clarifies that it is introducing “more ads throughout search queries” in the App Store. These new advertisements will show up lower down in App Store search results.

Apple asserts:

> “Search is the method most individuals use to discover and download apps on the App Store, with nearly 65 percent of downloads occurring immediately after a search. To provide advertisers with greater opportunities to enhance downloads from search results, Apple Ads will launch additional ads across search queries. You don’t need to modify your campaign to qualify for any new positions. Your ad will either run in the existing spot — at the top of search results — or farther down in search results.”

Advertisers and developers won’t have the ability to choose or bid for a specific position. Rather, an ad may appear in any of the available ad locations based on factors such as the bid amount and its ranking in the auction. Furthermore, the ad’s position could differ even within the same campaign.

Billing for advertisers and developers will continue to be based on cost per tap or cost per install. When the new ad units debut in 2026, current search ad campaigns will be automatically eligible for the new spaces.

Apple elaborates that the ad format will remain consistent in any position:

> “The ad format will be the same in any position, utilizing a default product page or custom product page, along with an optional deep link. You’ll be billed as usual based on your pricing model: cost per tap or cost per install.”

Apple indicates that over 800 million users access the App Store weekly, and more than 85% of users downloaded at least one app during their last visit. The company also highlights a 60% conversion rate for ads at the top of search results and notes that nearly 65% of downloads happen immediately after a user conducts a search.

Advertisers and developers can gather more information on the Apple Ads website. The new advertisements will be available to advertisers beginning in 2026 and will be compatible with iOS and iPadOS 26.2 and later.

Apple TV Unveils Spin-Off Show ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’

In the wake of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’ triumph, Apple has announced the expansion of Legendary’s Monsterverse with a forthcoming spin-off series for Apple TV. The new prequel series, currently untitled, will center on Colonel Lee Shaw, played by Wyatt Russell, and will delve into a covert operation in 1984 aimed at thwarting the Soviets from unleashing a catastrophic Titan during the Cold War.

The series will be executive produced by Russell and directed by Joby Harold, who is also managing the Monsterverse on Apple TV. Harold shared his enthusiasm for broadening this legendary universe, highlighting the collaboration between Apple and Legendary.

Morgan Wandell, head of international content development for Apple TV, noted the audience’s excitement for Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and the eagerness for new narratives that will enhance the bond with cherished Titans through character-focused storytelling.

Legendary’s Monsterverse is portrayed as a cross-platform narrative world where humanity faces the truth of legendary monsters. The franchise encompasses titles such as Godzilla, Kong: Skull Island, and Godzilla vs. Kong, among others. Although Apple has yet to reveal a release date for the new spin-off, it assures fans that it will bring them closer to their beloved Titans.

Apple TV is priced at $12.99 per month, offering a range of popular shows and films.

Apple Music Introduces App on ChatGPT: A User Guide for Accessing It

Following the announcement made yesterday regarding the impending availability of Apple Music on ChatGPT, the application is now operational. Here’s what is possible with it.

## What this is, and what this isn’t

Although many might think that this integration allows users to stream music on ChatGPT from Apple Music, that is not true; however, you can listen to samples from the tracks as they show up on ChatGPT.

This integration signifies that Apple Music subscribers will now have the capability to request ChatGPT to assemble playlists for them or search for songs, albums, and artists on Apple Music, all based on natural language exchanges with OpenAI’s LLM.

In practice, this allows Apple Music subscribers to request something along the lines of, “Make a 30-song rock and roll Christmas playlist on Apple Music, but steer clear of clichés,” or “Create Barney’s Get Psyched Mix from How I Met Your Mother,” and ChatGPT will take care of locating the songs and compiling them into a playlist, instead of the user needing to do it themselves.

You can also utilize natural language to search for songs, albums, and artists that you may not precisely know how to locate. Essentially, this means that you can prompt it to play “that Alice song from Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” or “that duuuum duuuum duuuuuuuuum DU-DUUUUUM song from that classic space film.”

From enhanced discoverability to more intelligent curation, there are countless ways to make use of this integration. If you have any good ideas, please share them in the comments below.

## But how do I use it?

Here’s how to access the Apple Music app on ChatGPT:

1. Visit

Apple Introduces Open-Source Framework for Transforming 2D Images into 3D Perspectives

### SHARP: Transforming 3D Scene Reconstruction from Individual Images

Apple has unveiled a groundbreaking model known as SHARP, which stands for Sharp Monocular View Synthesis. This model can reconstruct a lifelike 3D scene from a single 2D image in less than a second, representing a major breakthrough in computer vision and graphics.

#### Overview of SHARP

In the research paper titled [Sharp Monocular View Synthesis in Less Than a Second](https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.10685), Apple’s researchers detail how SHARP was trained to generate a 3D representation of a scene while preserving real-world distances and scales. The model employs a single feedforward pass through a neural network to regress the parameters of a 3D Gaussian representation of the scene, achieving this in under a second using standard GPU hardware.

The 3D Gaussian representation created by SHARP can be rendered in real-time, enabling the production of high-resolution lifelike images from nearby perspectives. This metric representation supports absolute scale and metric camera movements, which is essential for realistic scene reconstruction.

#### Technical Insights

SHARP functions by predicting a 3D representation of the scene, which can subsequently be rendered from various viewpoints. A 3D Gaussian is effectively a small, indistinct blob of color and light in space. When combined, these blobs can form a scene that appears real from a particular angle. Unlike conventional Gaussian splatting techniques that necessitate multiple images from varying perspectives, SHARP can generate a complete 3D Gaussian representation from just one snapshot.

To attain this functionality, SHARP was trained on vast datasets that included both synthetic and real-world images. This training equips the model to recognize common patterns of depth and geometry, allowing it to estimate depth and refine it based on accumulated knowledge when given a new image. As a result, SHARP can forecast the location and appearance of millions of 3D Gaussians in a single pass, enabling speedy scene reconstruction without the necessity for multiple images or lengthy optimization processes.

#### Limitations and Trade-offs

While SHARP excels at rendering nearby viewpoints with remarkable speed and precision, it is not without limitations. The model is primarily designed to generate realistic renderings from angles close to the perspective of the original image. This implies that users cannot examine entirely unseen sections of the scene, as the model does not generate these areas. This design choice contributes to the model’s speed, allowing it to yield results in under a second while ensuring stability and realism in the output.

#### Community Engagement and Future Directions

Apple has made SHARP accessible on

Morgan Stanley Increases Apple Stock Price Target While Maintaining Overweight Rating

### Morgan Stanley Adjusts Apple Stock Price Target Amid Improved Revenue Forecast

The financial environment for Apple Inc. has experienced a significant change as Morgan Stanley recently raised its price target for the tech behemoth’s stock by 3%, increasing it from $305 to $315. This revision occurs despite the context of climbing memory costs, reflecting a more positive revenue outlook for the firm.

#### Price Target and Rating

Morgan Stanley’s choice to raise the price target signifies a consistent use of a 32x multiple applied to its updated earnings per share (EPS) projection for fiscal year 2027, which has been revised to $9.83 from an earlier estimate of $9.55. The investment firm has retained an “Overweight” classification on Apple, implying their belief that the stock will exceed market performance.

#### iPhone Shipments and Replacement Cycle

In its revised forecast, Morgan Stanley predicts a modest rise in iPhone shipments. Nevertheless, they also foresee an extension in the replacement cycle for iPhones, suggesting users will keep their devices for about one month longer than previously expected. This trend may affect overall sales figures in the near term but signifies a larger shift in consumer behavior.

#### Gross Margin and Revenue Forecast

The report indicates a projected reduction of 130 basis points in Apple’s gross margin, mainly due to higher memory input costs. However, this decline is anticipated to be counteracted by a 5% increase in revenue, which takes into account price increases resulting from commodity cost inflation. This combination of escalating costs and rising revenue highlights the intricacies of Apple’s present market standing.

#### Investment in AI and Operating Expenses

Morgan Stanley emphasized that Apple’s continuous investments in artificial intelligence (AI) are likely to result in elevated operating expenses relative to past trends. This strategic emphasis on AI is regarded as crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the swiftly changing tech landscape.

#### Market Implications

If Morgan Stanley’s updated price target comes to fruition, it would represent a 15.8% upside from Apple’s recent closing price of $271.84, which followed a 1.01% decrease in the stock. Earlier this month, Apple shares attained a new 52-week peak of $288.61, driven by optimism regarding the iPhone 17 upgrade cycle and other favorable market signals.

### Conclusion

Morgan Stanley’s adjusted price target for Apple reflects a sophisticated comprehension of the company’s existing hurdles and opportunities. While increasing memory costs present a margin risk, the overall revenue forecast remains encouraging, supported by strategic investments and anticipated growth in iPhone shipments. As Apple navigates these shifts, investor sentiment will likely stay closely linked to the company’s performance in the upcoming quarters.

Thorough Handbook to Locate My Accessories for Improved Item Monitoring

# The Definitive Guide to Discover My Accessories: Ideal Stocking Stuffers for the Festive Season

In today’s technology-driven society, monitoring our possessions has become simpler, thanks to the comprehensive range of Discover My accessories. These devices not only boost our capacity to pinpoint significant items but also serve as considerate gifts this festive season.

## Grasping Discover My Accessories

Discover My accessories employ a low-energy Bluetooth signal that interacts with nearby Apple devices, avoiding reliance on GPS technology. This cutting-edge system securely transmits location information to the Discover My network, enabling users to find their belongings even from great distances, provided another Apple device is within reach.

Apple perpetually upgrades the Discover My network with novel features, including a mechanism for sharing item locations, increasing the value of these accessories.

## Premier Discover My Accessories

### AirTag

No catalogue of Discover My accessories would be complete without referencing Apple’s AirTag. Featuring a U1 chip for Precision Finding, a built-in speaker, and numerous other functionalities, AirTags are perfect for monitoring luggage, backpacks, keys, and beyond. Since their launch in April 2021, AirTags have undergone notable enhancements, incorporating new anti-stalking measures and improved notification alerts. They now can even be utilized with airlines for tracking luggage.

**Purchase AirTags:** [Apple Store](https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-airtag)

**Top AirTags Accessories:**
– Various cases and holders are accessible for personalizing and safeguarding AirTags.

### Chipolo’s Discover My Ecosystem

Chipolo offers a variety of trackers compatible with Apple’s Discover My ecosystem, enabling users to monitor them alongside their Apple devices. These tools use the Discover My network for real-time location tracking.

– **Chipolo LOOP:** A rechargeable tracker featuring a built-in loop holder for simple attachment to keys and bags.
– **Chipolo One Spot:** An AirTag-shaped tracker with an integrated keyring hole, eliminating the requirement for additional attachments.

### SwitchBot Wallet Finder

The SwitchBot Wallet Finder is crafted to fit seamlessly into your wallet, including a built-in keyring holder for added flexibility. It allows users to effortlessly track their wallets using the Discover My ecosystem.

**Purchase the SwitchBot Wallet Finder:** [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com)

### Pebblebee’s Discover My Ecosystem

Pebblebee offers multiple Discover My-compatible trackers, including:

– **Pebblebee Clip:** A compact tracker featuring a built-in keyring holder with up to 12 months of battery life, rechargeable via USB-C.
– **Pebblebee Tracker Universal Tag:** An ultra-small tracker providing up to 8 months of battery life with USB-C charging.

### Backpacks with Discover My Integration

For those seeking a comprehensive solution, select backpacks come equipped with integrated Discover My functionalities. Swissdigital offers a variety of backpacks that connect seamlessly to the Discover My network.

### Twelve South PlugBug

The Twelve South PlugBug is a USB-C fast-charging adapter that connects with Discover My, guaranteeing you’ll never misplace your charger again. It’s a useful addition to any traveler’s kit.

**Purchase the Twelve South PlugBug:** [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com)

### Nomad Discover My Tracking Card Pro

Nomad’s Discover My Tracking Card Pro showcases a sleek metallic design resembling a credit card. It integrates with Discover My, facilitating discreet tracking of wallets. The card wirelessly recharges via Qi or MagSafe chargers and lasts up to 16 months on a single charge.

**Purchase the Nomad Tracking Card Pro:**

iOS 26.2 Brings New Features to Apple Podcasts, Responding to Long-Awaited Request for Apple Music

**Improvements in Apple Music Radio: An Exploration of Integration and Discovery**

Five years back, an Apple Music Radio program customized for personal preferences greatly improved music discovery for numerous users. Nonetheless, the challenge of finding new episodes continued until three years later, when Apple Podcasts merged Apple Music Radio programs. This merger simplified keeping track of new episodes, yet the experience was missing vital Apple Music features.

With the launch of iOS 26.2, Apple has effectively filled these voids in an unexpected and impactful way. The assimilation of Apple Music Radio programs into Apple Podcasts has now been enhanced, offering a more fluid listening experience.

In early 2021, crucial features such as notifications for programs, offline episode playback, and a straightforward method to follow preferred shows were recognized as vital enhancements for Apple Music Radio programs. For fans of particular genres, such as the pop-punk scene surrounding bands like blink-182, programs like “After School Radio,” hosted by Mark Hoppus, became standout weekly highlights. These programs not only offered entertainment but also aided in discovering new artists and albums, enriching the overall musical journey.

Despite the convenience of live listening, accessing on-demand content necessitated navigating through the Music app, which often resulted in frustration. Users devised alternatives, like using share sheets to capture URLs for easier access.

In 2023, Apple rolled out a series of features, encompassing notifications, offline playback, and the capacity to follow shows, in addition to playback synchronization with Apple Music Radio programs in Apple Podcasts. However, these advancements came with compromises: listeners found themselves missing track details and the quick ability to add songs to their libraries.

With the advent of iOS 26.2, Apple Podcasts has now integrated links to songs featured during episodes, permitting users to jump straight to tracks in the Music app. This feature not only allows users to save songs and delve into artists’ catalogs but also enhances the listening experience by providing context through auto-generated transcripts.

The incorporation of these features has revolutionized how users engage with Apple Music Radio programs, simplifying the process of discovering and enjoying music. However, concerns persist about the activity status of certain shows, such as “After School Radio,” which has not released new episodes in recent times.

In summary, the progression of Apple Music Radio programs, especially with the enhancements introduced in iOS 26.2, signifies a substantial advancement in music discovery and user experience, promising a more cohesive and enjoyable platform for music enthusiasts.

Elements to Weigh When Choosing to Buy a Cellular Apple Watch

# The Apple Watch: Should You Get Cellular or Not?

The Apple Watch range provides numerous options and configurations, encompassing various case materials, colors, sizes, and connectivity alternatives. A major factor when buying an Apple Watch is the decision to choose a model with cellular connectivity.

## What Benefits Does Cellular Connectivity Provide?

An Apple Watch equipped with cellular functionality enables users to remain linked while leaving their iPhone behind. This capability allows for making calls, sending messages, streaming music, and using apps without needing the iPhone close by. However, this convenience entails extra costs.

## Which Apple Watch Variants Come with Cellular Options?

At present, Apple presents several models featuring cellular capabilities, such as the Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch Ultra. The Apple Watch SE commences at $249 for GPS and $299 for GPS + Cellular. The Apple Watch Series 11 starts at $399 for GPS and $499 for GPS + Cellular. Notably, the Apple Watch Series 11 in titanium, the Hermès variant, and the Apple Watch Ultra are available solely with GPS + Cellular.

## Costs Related to Cellular

Monthly fees for cellular connectivity generally fall between $10 and $15, often more economical than many iPhone plans. Acquiring the watch directly from a carrier may provide additional savings. It’s crucial to understand that if you purchase a standard Apple Watch with GPS, you cannot upgrade to a cellular plan later; you must buy a GPS + Cellular model from the beginning.

## The Liberty of Leaving Your iPhone at Home

For those who like to leave their iPhone at home, particularly during activities like jogging or strolling, a cellular Apple Watch is an efficient choice. It enables effortless access to calls, texts, and music without the heft of a phone. When used with AirPods, users can relish hands-free communication and entertainment.

On the other hand, if you often carry your iPhone, the extra cost of cellular connectivity might not be warranted. Assessing your iPhone usage can assist in deciding whether a cellular Apple Watch is essential.

## Emergency SOS on Apple Watch

Even in the absence of a cellular plan, users can reach emergency services from their Apple Watch if it’s connected to a recognized Wi-Fi network. However, if the iPhone is not close, the watch must be configured for Wi-Fi calling. This feature is vital for those who may find themselves without their iPhone, providing reassurance during emergencies.

## Family Setup

The Family Setup feature is especially advantageous for parents wishing to keep in contact with their children without necessitating their own iPhone. This allows parents to configure a cellular Apple Watch for their child, permitting them to call, text, and access other features independently. This option is often more economical than acquiring a smartphone and includes parental controls for managing usage.

## Final Thoughts

For numerous users, selecting an Apple Watch with cellular connectivity is a valuable investment. Although it involves a higher initial expense, it unlocks vital features that enhance the watch’s autonomy from the iPhone. Furthermore, users can buy a cellular model without activating it right away, allowing for future adaptability.

In summary, while the discussion over cellular connectivity persists, the benefits it provides—particularly for active users—render it an attractive option for many. Whether you deem it essential or not, the choice ultimately hinges on your lifestyle and how you plan to utilize your Apple Watch.

9to5Mac Daily: December 17, 2025 – Summary of Apple’s iPhone Strategy

### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple Updates

In the current swift-moving digital landscape, keeping up with the most recent technology news is essential. **9to5Mac Daily** provides a practical answer for Apple fans, delivering a daily summary of the most important stories within the Apple ecosystem. This podcast is accessible on various platforms, including [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), and [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), ensuring listeners can tune in wherever they choose.

#### Daily Episodes and Content

New installments of **9to5Mac Daily** are recorded each weekday, simplifying the process for listeners to stay updated on the latest happenings in the Apple domain. The podcast explores a range of subjects, spanning product launches, software updates, industry analysis, and rumors. Subscribers can look forward to receiving episodes promptly, so they are always informed of critical news.

#### Exclusive Offers and Sponsorships

The podcast is backed by **Backblaze**, a cloud backup service that ensures data security. For a limited period, listeners can benefit from a special offer, gaining **30% off** with the code **9to5Xmas**. This collaboration not only delivers valuable savings but also aids in supporting the podcast’s production.

#### Subscription Benefits

Listeners can amplify their experience by subscribing to **9to5Mac Daily Plus**, which provides several perks:
– **Ad-free versions** of each episode
– **Bonus content** that explores the topics in greater depth

This subscription approach enables fans to directly support the podcast while relishing an uninterrupted listening experience.

#### Engage with the Community

**9to5Mac Daily** promotes listener interaction. Enthusiasts can express their thoughts by contacting the team at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Moreover, listeners are encouraged to review the podcast on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and