Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Season 2 Overview**

Apple TV’s renowned sci-fi series, *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters*, is poised to make its return for a second season on **February 27, 2026**. Following the triumph of its inaugural season, which enthralled viewers with its fusion of human drama and monstrous action, the series continues to delve into the intricate realm of Titans, featuring legendary figures like Godzilla and King Kong.

**New Titan Unveiled**

The freshly released trailer for season 2 reveals a new entity, termed ‘Titan X,’ amplifying the excitement surrounding the series. This new Titan is anticipated to play a crucial role in the evolving narrative, which promises to investigate further into the mythology of the Monarch organization and its relationship with these gigantic beings.

**Plot Summary**

The initial season of *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters* centered on two siblings exploring their family’s connections to the secret organization Monarch. Their adventure plunged them into a realm filled with monsters and the intricate history of Army officer Lee Shaw, depicted by the father-son pair Kurt Russell and Wyatt Russell. The tale traversed the 1950s and the contemporary era, uncovering the organization’s concealed truths.

As season 2 commences, the fate of Monarch and the world is uncertain. The plot will uncover hidden secrets that unite heroes and villains on Kong’s Skull Island and within a mysterious village where a new Titan surfaces. The series will persist in blurring the distinctions between family, friends, and adversaries, all while a titan event approaches on the horizon.

**Release Schedule**

*Monarch: Legacy of Monsters* season 2 is set to debut on February 27, 2026, with new episodes airing weekly until May 1, 2026.

**Viewing Options**

Viewers can catch up on the first season of *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters* on Apple TV, available for **$12.99 per month** or via the discounted Apple One bundle.

As excitement heightens for the new season, fans are invited to share their opinions on the series and their intentions to watch the forthcoming episodes.

Apple acquired the team responsible for developing the app at Pixelmator in late 2024, with the acquisition concluding nearly a year ago. Now, in the first significant update since the acquisition, Pixelmator Pro is set to launch on iPad in conjunction with the debut of Apple Creator Studio.

### Pixelmator Pro Arrives January 28 on iPad Alongside Apple Creator Studio

From Apple’s press announcement regarding the upcoming Apple Creator Studio:

> For the first time, Pixelmator Pro is making its way to iPad, featuring a completely new touch-optimized workspace, comprehensive Apple Pencil support, the capability to work seamlessly between iPad and Mac, and all the robust editing tools that users have come to value on Mac. Pixelmator Pro for iPad delivers fast and effective image editing, harnessing the high-speed capabilities of Apple silicon and designed from the ground up for the latest iPadOS.

User-friendly touch controls enhance the ability to create desktop-level designs wherever users take their iPad. The comprehensive Layers sidebar enables creators to assemble designs using a variety of distinctive elements like images, shapes, text, and even video. Intelligent selection tools assist users in isolating and modifying specific sections of images with ease, and with advanced bitmap and vector masks, they can conceal or display specific areas of their designs. The profound integration of hardware, software, and Apple silicon activates features such as Super Resolution for intelligently enlarging photos, Deband for eliminating compression artifacts, and automatic composition prompts with Auto Crop. With complete Apple Pencil support, digital artists can enjoy a natural painting experience with a stunning array of pressure-sensitive brushes. The unparalleled precision of Apple Pencil—combined with features like hover, squeeze, and double-tap—equips creators to produce pixel-perfect designs.

In other words, the complete functionality of the Pixelmator Pro application for Mac seems to be incorporated into the new iPad app. The updated iPad version of Pixelmator Pro will be available **Wednesday, January 28**. It necessitates hardware with an A16, A17 Pro, or M1 chip or newer running iPadOS 26 or above.

According to the press release, it remains somewhat unclear if Apple Creator Studio is needed to access the new iPad app. The Mac version will be obtainable as a one-time purchase of $49.99, but Apple doesn’t specifically indicate a comparable purchase option for iPad.

Pixelmator Pro has consistently been exclusive to Mac, despite the original Pixelmator app being accessible for both iPhone and iPad as well. However, that application has seen minimal updates in recent years. Even prior to the Apple acquisition, the team behind Pixelmator primarily concentrated on Pixelmator Pro for Mac.

Interestingly, even if you acquire the Mac version through a one-time purchase, Apple is restricting at least one Pixelmator Pro feature to subscribers of the new Apple Creator Studio.

> Moreover, for subscribers of Apple Creator Studio, both Pixelmator Pro for Mac and iPad introduce a powerful new Warp tool for twisting and shaping layers in countless creative ways, accompanied by a stunning collection of Warp-powered product mockups.

Certain unique features are also offered in the Apple Creator Studio subscription for other applications, such as Pages, Keynote, and Numbers.

Are you eager to utilize Pixelmator Pro on iPad? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple has revealed a notable modification to its suite of productivity applications, which includes Pages, Numbers, Keynote, and Freeform. Historically, these applications have been free for users on Apple devices; however, the launch of the Apple Creator Studio will introduce new AI functionalities and premium content that will demand a subscription.

The fundamental capabilities of these applications will continue to be free, enabling users to create, edit, and collaborate without any subscription fees. Yet, those who subscribe will unlock advanced features, such as exclusive templates and themes, along with access to a new high-quality media library via the Content Hub. This initiative aims to empower creators from various fields while ensuring user privacy.

Apple has yet to share all specifics, but the subscription service is crafted to enhance the familiar experiences of other creative tools like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro. Users can anticipate uninterrupted access to existing functionalities, with the subscription mainly aimed at individuals looking to take advantage of the new visual-centric content.

Moreover, users will retain the option to buy the Mac versions of these creative applications outright, rather than subscribing. This flexibility enables users to select the most suitable approach for their requirements, whether they favor the classic one-time purchase model or the new subscription model for premium features.

Apple has recently garnered attention by collaborating with Google to improve its AI capabilities, particularly regarding Siri. This partnership is aligned with Apple’s ambitions to create its own AI server chips, as disclosed by industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. These moves indicate a strategic initiative by Apple to strengthen its presence in the swiftly changing AI arena.

### Proprietary AI Server Chips Could Provide Apple a New Edge

According to Kuo, Apple’s own AI server chips are projected to begin mass production in the latter half of 2026. Moreover, Apple intends to build and manage its own data centers by 2027, highlighting a substantial commitment to AI infrastructure. This timetable implies that Apple expects a marked increase in demand for on-device AI functionalities starting in 2027.

For years, rumors have circulated about Apple’s plans to create its own AI-targeted server-class chips. The validation of these intentions signifies a crucial juncture for the company, particularly in light of its established strengths in silicon engineering. Apple’s silicon team has continuously enhanced the performance of its devices, including the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. The rollout of proprietary cellular modems and wireless chips further emphasizes the company’s prowess in hardware innovation.

Kuo’s analysis points out that while the new AI server chips are scheduled for mass production in 2026, they might also be utilized in current data centers on a limited scale prior to the full-scale launch. This gradual implementation enables Apple to seamlessly incorporate its new technology while fine-tuning its AI capabilities.

### Consequences for Apple’s Future

The creation of proprietary AI server chips could offer Apple a distinctive competitive advantage. By having control over its hardware, Apple can enhance performance and efficiency for its AI solutions, which may result in improved user experiences throughout its ecosystem. As the need for AI-driven functionalities continues to rise, Apple’s commitment to this sector could place it in a favorable position against its rivals.

The excitement around these developments raises inquiries about the future of Apple’s AI advances and the implications for products like Siri. As Apple persists in its innovation and expands its technological foundations, the incorporation of sophisticated AI features could transform user interaction with its devices.

In summary, Apple’s initiative to develop its own AI server chips marks a significant milestone in its continuous evolution within the technology sector. With a solid base in silicon engineering and a strategic alliance with Google, Apple is well-positioned to enhance its AI capabilities and potentially alter the artificial intelligence landscape in consumer technology.

### The Resizing Challenge in macOS 26: Recognizing the Design Flaw

Following the upgrade to macOS 26, numerous users have faced a vexing problem while trying to resize windows. The typical scenario entails attempting to grab a corner of a window, only to discover that the action does not succeed. This issue stems not from user mishaps, but from a design flaw by Apple concerning the window corners.

Traditionally, Mac windows had a visual cue in the lower right corner that distinctly indicated the capability to resize, offering a clear grab handle. This design feature was emphasized by John Siracusa in his review of Mac OS X Lion back in 2011. However, with the arrival of macOS 26, the enlarged corner radii have posed a new obstacle.

Developer Norbert Heger remarked that the natural inclination to click to resize a window often occurs in a region that does not yield the anticipated response. The functional area for resizing is a 19 × 19 pixel box situated near the window corner. In earlier versions of macOS, a substantial part of this area resided within the window. Nevertheless, due to the extended corner radius in macOS 26, around 75% of this area now extends outside the window, resulting in frequent unsuccessful attempts to resize.

Heger demonstrated this inconsistency with visual representations, illustrating where users generally click (green shading) in contrast to the actual functional area (red shading). This discrepancy between visual expectation and functional design is the fundamental reason for the resizing difficulties.

Additionally, John Gruber highlighted the extra visual confusion caused by this design oversight. For example, scrollbars are programmed to function within a rectangle with square corners, which further complicates the user interaction.

As conversations concerning the design of macOS 26 progress, it is evident that the resizing problem is a crucial area of concern for users. The visual and logical inconsistencies in window corners underscore the challenges that may emerge when aesthetic modifications do not coincide with functional design tenets.

**Apple Creator Studio: A Fresh Chapter in Creative Capability**

Apple has officially unveiled the introduction of Apple Creator Studio, an innovative collection of creative applications aimed at equipping users with professional-level tools. Scheduled to launch on the App Store on January 28, this service will come with a subscription price of $12.99 monthly or $129 annually, including a one-month complimentary trial for new users.

**Highlights of Apple Creator Studio**

Apple Creator Studio offers a wide array of applications, addressing various creative requirements:

– **Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Pixelmator Pro**: Offered on both Mac and iPad, these top-tier applications enable users to edit videos, compose music, and produce breathtaking graphics.

– **Motion, Compressor, and MainStage**: Exclusive to Mac users, these instruments augment video production and live performance potential.

– **Smart Features for Productivity Applications**: Keynote, Pages, and Numbers will gain premium content and smart features, improving the overall experience for users.

– **Freeform**: This collaborative tool will be available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, though its launch is set for a later date.

A prominent highlight is the arrival of Pixelmator Pro on iPad, which promises an experience optimized for touch, specifically designed for Apple Pencil users.

**Latest Features and Improvements**

Alongside the Apple Creator Studio launch, every application in the suite will feature new elements, enhancing both their functionality and user experience. These updates are designed to simplify workflows and provide users with cutting-edge tools to advance their creative endeavors.

Apple Creator Studio marks a major step towards making high-quality creative tools available to everyone, regardless of their skill level. With its extensive suite of applications and features, Apple is ready to motivate a new generation of creators.

**Apple’s Engagement in the Car Connectivity Consortium’s Plugfest Event**

Apple is actively participating in a week-long event hosted by the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) designed to assess the practical performance of the digital key standard, which supports its Car Key feature. This effort is part of a larger initiative to improve vehicle access technology, facilitating smooth integration between smart devices and automobiles.

### Summary of the Plugfest Event

The Plugfest event unites prominent automotive manufacturers and technology firms to perform interoperability testing of the CCC Digital Key, a worldwide standard for secure, smart device-based vehicle entry. Key participants include significant automakers such as BMW, General Motors, Hyundai, Mercedes, Rivian, and Volkswagen, as well as tech leaders like Google and Motorola Mobility.

This year’s evaluations concentrate on version 4 of the digital key standard while also reviewing compatibility with version 3. The CCC noted that last year, 115 vehicles and products received certification, demonstrating an increasing adoption of this technology within the industry.

### Significance of Digital Keys

The CCC asserts that the automotive sector has achieved a critical mass concerning digital keys, anticipating that 2025 will signify a major milestone as these technologies progress from early innovations to standard expectations among consumers. According to the CCC’s 2025 Future of Vehicle Connectivity Report, 97% of its member companies regard vehicle access as extremely or very important to their business, emphasizing the rising demand for consistent and interoperable digital key experiences.

### Testing Focus Areas

The testing at the Plugfest covers various crucial areas, including security, privacy, and reliability. A key aspect of the event is the assessment of passive entry systems, which enable compatible vehicles to unlock automatically as a user approaches with their iPhone or Apple Watch using the Car Key feature. This capability seeks to improve user convenience and security, facilitating smoother vehicle access.

### Final Thoughts

Apple’s participation in the CCC’s Plugfest highlights its dedication to advancing digital key technology and ensuring interoperability across different platforms and devices. As the automotive industry progresses, the demand for secure and effective vehicle access solutions becomes increasingly essential, paving the way for a future in which digital keys are a fundamental component of the driving experience.

Apple has recently announced its collaboration with Google’s Gemini to boost the functionalities of Siri and various AI features. This partnership signifies a major change in Apple’s stance on artificial intelligence, shifting from crafting its own AI models to utilizing Google’s superior technologies.

The declaration was strategically communicated via CNBC’s “Mad Money” host Jim Cramer, highlighting a priority on investors rather than on consumers. This move comes in response to increasing demands for Apple to enhance its AI capabilities, particularly following previous setbacks in delivering expected functionalities for Siri.

The inclusion of Google Gemini into Siri is perceived as a beneficial advancement for Apple users. By adopting Google’s AI models, Apple plans to deliver improved features while upholding its strict privacy policies. The alliance permits Apple to execute AI tasks on its devices and Private Cloud Compute, guaranteeing that user information remains protected.

Crucially, the arrangement does not limit Apple from creating its own AI models in the future. The multi-year agreement offers flexibility, empowering Apple to transition to its own technologies if it outperforms Google’s capabilities in particular domains.

This collaboration is anticipated to bring substantial enhancements to Siri, addressing previous critiques about its effectiveness. With both Apple and Google committed to the success of this partnership, there is hope that new features will be introduced shortly, improving the overall user experience.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Apple and Google’s Gemini signifies a strategic maneuver to strengthen Siri’s functionalities while maintaining Apple’s dedication to user privacy. This development is expected to advantage both users and investors, as it positions Apple to more effectively compete in the swiftly changing AI arena.

### Apple @ Work: Insights from Weldon Dodd on Kandji’s Evolution to Iru

In the sector of enterprise technology, the incorporation and management of Apple devices have become ever more essential. Mosyle, a prominent supplier of Apple Unified Platform solutions, holds a vital position in this domain by providing a comprehensive array of tools aimed at deploying, managing, and safeguarding Apple devices effortlessly. With more than 45,000 organizations depending on Mosyle, it is clear that their strategy for making Apple devices operational is both efficient and cost-effective.

In a recent episode of the Apple @ Work podcast, host [Weldon Dodd](https://www.linkedin.com/in/weldondodd/) examined the evolution of Kandji into Iru. This transition signifies a notable advancement in the company’s services and reflects the continuous progress in Apple device management. Dodd offered his perspectives on what he expects from Apple in the year ahead, alongside the “dream” features that IT administrators yearn to see brought to fruition.

The dialogue explores the hurdles and prospects that IT teams encounter when overseeing Apple devices in a corporate setting. As businesses persist in embracing Apple technology, the demand for strong management solutions becomes vital. Dodd’s insights illuminate the significance of innovation and flexibility in fulfilling the requirements of contemporary workplaces.

For those keen on delving deeper into the full conversation, the episode includes an audio segment that can be accessed [here](https://9to5mac.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/01/Iru-leveled.mp3).

### Key Takeaways from the Episode

– **Kandji’s Evolution to Iru**: Grasping the ramifications of this transition for IT management and device deployment.
– **Anticipated Innovations from Apple**: Insights into which features and enhancements IT administrators are eager for.
– **Ideal Features for IT Admins**: A discussion on the perfect functionalities that could improve the management of Apple devices in the workplace.

### Additional Resources

For those looking to further investigate the domain of Apple device management, previous episodes of the Apple @ Work podcast are available for listening and subscription. This ongoing series delivers invaluable insights into the latest trends, tools, and strategies for effectively managing Apple technology in professional environments.

For more details on Mosyle and to request an extended trial, visit their website [here](https://mosyle.net/3RDn).

Apple is poised to improve its messaging features by bringing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) to Rich Communication Services (RCS) messages, in line with the GSM Association’s standardization of this option. This was announced in March, and the latest beta updates suggest that Apple is advancing towards the deployment of this capability.

The most recent iOS 26.3 beta 2 has uncovered a new carrier bundle option permitting mobile carriers to toggle E2EE for RCS messages on or off. Impressively, this option has been spotted exclusively with the four main French carriers: Bouygues, Orange, SFR, and Free, indicating a localized testing or rollout effort.

As per the GSMA’s guidelines, RCS clients must have E2EE enabled by default, although this can be subject to local laws. The regulations state that E2EE should be accessible to all users in a given market, and if it is not, users must be notified of its absence. Furthermore, when E2EE is enabled, users ought to be able to view the encryption status of their messages.

Although the inclusion of this code in the beta version does not assure that E2EE will debut with iOS 26.3, it suggests that Apple is gearing up for its eventual release. The rollout of E2EE for RCS messaging would greatly bolster user privacy and security, aligning with rising expectations for enhanced secure communication methods in the digital era.