Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple Set to Introduce Two Fresh Macs Next Year, Possibly Indicating a New Epoch

Apple is poised to unveil an impressive array of new Macs next year, with two particular models for 2026 that appear prepared to usher in a transformative chapter for the Mac.

## Early 2026: Completely New ‘MacBook’

At the beginning of next year, Apple is believed to introduce a completely new ‘MacBook’ product that will be the most budget-friendly option in its lineup. This upcoming Mac is anticipated to feature a 12.9-inch display, come in vibrant hues such as blue, pink, and yellow, incorporate an iPhone-tier A18 Pro chip, and be priced around $599 or $699.

Apple has traditionally hesitated to release an affordable MacBook that could effectively compete against cost-effective Chromebooks and PCs. However, it now appears that the company is prepared to contend for a larger share of the Mac market. Recent macOS updates have centered on enhancing compatibility with the iPhone. A substantial number of iPhone users choose not to adopt the Mac for personal or work computing—budget considerations likely playing a crucial role. With this economical MacBook, Apple may have the opportunity to convert those who have been reluctant to switch.

## Late 2026: M6 MacBook Pro

Towards the end of next year, Apple is in the process of a significant overhaul of the MacBook Pro. While the affordable MacBook renders the Mac more approachable for consumers, the M6 MacBook Pro could elevate the platform in a different manner: by introducing essential enhancements such as touchscreens and possibly a cellular connectivity option.

The M6 MacBook Pro is set to undergo a comprehensive hardware redesign, resulting in a thinner and lighter model than its predecessors. It is expected to feature an OLED display, likely without a notch, and will be the inaugural Mac to support touch. Reports suggest that Apple might also provide a 5G cellular option with its upcoming C2 in-house modem. Even if the cellular capability does not materialize, the inclusion of touch alone will represent a substantial turning point for the Mac.

Apple has consistently rejected the notion of integrating touch into the Mac. Nonetheless, the new MacBook Pro appears poised to initiate a new era for the platform.

What are your thoughts on the future of the Mac at Apple in 2026 and beyond? Share your opinions in the comments.

### Top Mac Accessories

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Apple’s Sneaky Sasquatch Set for Expansion and Partnerships with Apple Store

**Sneaky Sasquatch: Fresh Updates and Experiences from Apple**

Sneaky Sasquatch has positioned itself as one of the premier titles on Apple Arcade, enchanting players with its distinctive gameplay and delightful visuals. Recently, Apple announced thrilling updates and exclusive experiences related to the game, aimed at enriching the player experience this festive season.

### Upcoming Sneaky Sasquatch Experiences This Month

Apple has introduced new features associated with Sneaky Sasquatch, aligning with the launch of its forthcoming game lineup for Apple Arcade. This title is especially significant as it is entirely owned by Apple, following the acquisition of the studio responsible for it earlier this year. This takeover has facilitated the ongoing development and expansion of the Sneaky Sasquatch brand.

In the past few months, players have encountered a range of updates, including a fresh iMessage sticker pack. The latest additions are set to launch shortly, comprising two primary elements:

1. An updated expansion focusing on farming features.
2. Exclusive experiences in Apple Stores.

The anticipated update, planned for **Tuesday, December 16**, will unveil the “Harvest to Harbor” expansion. This update will enable players to cultivate and gather mushrooms and interact with an engaging new Crop Market, where they can track prices and sell their produce strategically.

### Interactive Installations and Events

Apple is also elevating the Sneaky Sasquatch experience with interactive displays at selected Apple Store locations. For example, The Grove in Los Angeles will host an interactive event on December 12-13, where participants can take photos with Sasquatch, hunt for hidden treasures to win prizes, and indulge in campfire snacks.

Moreover, select Apple Stores globally will launch a new “Today at Apple” session named **Kids: Draw with Sneaky Sasquatch**. These sessions will feature themed dance parties, further captivating fans of the game.

### Download and Subscription Details

Players can access Sneaky Sasquatch through the App Store. Apple Arcade is offered as a standalone service for **$6.99/month** or included in the Apple One bundle, granting access to over 200 games without advertisements or in-app purchases.

With these latest updates and experiences, Sneaky Sasquatch continues to flourish as a cherished title on Apple Arcade, promising to keep players engaged throughout the holiday season and thereafter.

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Current Offers: $130 Discount on 512GB Mac mini, Apple Sport Loop for $34, Magic Mouse and AirPods Back in Stock, and Additional Items

### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break: Significant Apple Sales and Offers

In this edition of 9to5Toys Lunch Break, we spotlight multiple noteworthy sales on Apple merchandise, featuring the return of the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) at an attractive price point. Furthermore, we delve into savings on the M4 Mac mini, Apple Watch accessories, along with various iPad and MacBook variants.

#### AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 with ANC

The AirPods Pro 3 have returned at a discounted price, making them a compelling choice for individuals seeking superior audio quality with noise cancellation capabilities. Meanwhile, the AirPods 4 with ANC are offered for merely $99, an opportunity that is difficult to resist for both audiophiles and casual listeners.

#### M4 Mac Mini Discounts

Amazon has brought back an impressive deal on the M4 Mac mini, presenting the base model for $479. Additionally, the mid-tier model, which includes 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, is now priced at $669.99, reflecting a $129 reduction from its usual price of $799. This setup is perfect for users in need of a powerful yet compact desktop solution.

#### Apple Watch Sport Loop

A fresh offer has appeared for the 2025 Anchor Blue Apple Watch Sport Loop, now available for $34, which is 30% off its standard price. This band is compatible with 46mm Apple Watch models and crafted from a soft, breathable nylon weave, making it a comfortable selection for everyday use.

#### Apple Watch Ultra 2 Models

As we approach the holiday season, Apple Watch Ultra 2 models have seen significant price reductions, with up to $250 off on various configurations. The models finished in Natural Titanium now retail for $549, down from the initial $799. This promotion includes multiple band choices, accommodating diverse styles and preferences.

#### iPad Pro Discounts

The newest M5 iPad Pro models are also experiencing price cuts, with both the 11-inch and 13-inch sizes available at $100 off. The 13-inch M5 iPad Pro begins at $1,199 for the 256GB version, positioning it as a compelling option for professionals and creatives alike.

#### M5 MacBook Pro Deals

All variations of the M5 MacBook Pro are presently $250 off at Amazon. This includes the 24GB/1TB configuration, which is now priced at $1,749. These promotions showcase some of the best prices observed since Black Friday, making it a prime time for those seeking a new laptop.

### Conclusion

With a range of discounts on sought-after Apple products, such as AirPods, Mac minis, Apple Watches, iPads, and MacBook Pros, now presents an excellent opportunity to contemplate upgrading your technology. Whether your interest lies in high-quality audio, a powerful desktop, or a versatile tablet, these deals provide significant savings and value.

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Review of the GAMEBABY Case: Converting Your iPhone into a Classic Handheld Console with Authentic Buttons

### The GAMEBABY Case: A Retro Gaming Transformation for iPhone Users

Previously, playing classic Game Boy Color games on an iPhone necessitated jailbreaking the device to install emulators like GBA4iOS. However, with Apple’s latest move to welcome emulator developers into the App Store, users can now indulge in these beloved games without the inconveniences of jailbreaking. A standout accessory that amplifies this experience is the GAMEBABY case, tailored specifically for the iPhone 17 series.

#### Design and Functionality

The GAMEBABY case showcases a two-part structure that clicks together effortlessly. It includes a standard protective casing with a cutout for the camera and a flip-to-play button interface at the bottom. As a conventional case, it is sleek, lightweight, and surprisingly resilient, crafted from high-quality plastic. The design is whimsical and inspired by retro aesthetics, featuring all necessary cutouts for speaker grills, USB-C ports, and camera controls.

The functionality aligns with previous iterations, yet this model features improved button responses, enhancing gameplay enjoyment. The buttons are tactile and accurate, minimizing accidental presses during operation. Notably, the case remains lightweight as it has no batteries or Bluetooth technology, instead utilizing capacitive button caps that imitate finger touches.

#### How It Works

The GAMEBABY case functions via capacitive button caps, akin to those used on styluses. Each button on the case contains a material that mimics a finger touch when pressed, allowing the iPhone to recognize the input. This clever design enables players to experience tactile feedback without the necessity for electronic elements.

To switch between a protective case and a gaming controller, users simply detach the bottom section of the case, flip it around, and reattach it. There’s no requirement for switches or intricate setups; it’s crafted for convenience and user-friendliness.

#### Compatibility with Emulators

To engage in gaming, users must have an emulator, and the GAMEBABY case integrates flawlessly with Delta, a widely-used emulator recognized for its classic controller layout. Users can upload personalized controller layouts and skins to guarantee that the physical buttons correspond perfectly with the digital buttons on the emulator. The packaging includes a QR code to assist users with the installation process for the GAMEBABY controller skin.

However, it’s essential to mention that the case does not support MagSafe because of its button configuration. Therefore, users who depend on MagSafe accessories will need to remove the case while using those features.

#### Pricing and Availability

The GAMEBABY case is offered in two color variants: the classic beige and yellow combination, and a new retro edition in white and grey, reminiscent of the Super Nintendo. It is compatible with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, retailing for $39.99.

#### Final Thoughts

The GAMEBABY case is essential for retro gaming fans. Its straightforward, user-friendly design, paired with its affordability, makes it a superb gift for anyone passionate about classic games. While there are alternative Bluetooth-enabled options on the market, the GAMEBABY’s simplicity and functionality distinguish it in a competitive space.

For those seeking to revisit their childhood gaming adventures on their iPhones, the GAMEBABY case is an ideal answer.

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How to Configure Apple Maps in iOS 26 to Bypass Traffic

# Apple Maps in iOS 26: Understanding Your Patterns and Delivering Proactive Delay Notifications

iOS 26 rolled out numerous key enhancements to Apple Maps, improving the user experience with functionalities centered around daily travel behaviors. A highlight of these updates is its capacity to recognize your common routes and generate proactive alerts regarding possible traffic delays.

## Apple Maps Can Recognize Your Patterns

At the launch event for iOS 26, Apple unveiled a new feature for Apple Maps focused on comprehending users’ everyday travel routines. As stated on Apple’s official site, this capability permits Maps to grasp the paths you often use and alert you to major delays prior to starting your trip. The system adjusts to shifts in your routine, making sure you remain updated on your commute.

With this capability, users receive notifications about delays affecting their regular routes, which is especially useful for steering clear of unanticipated traffic complications. Moreover, relevant route information is provided through the Maps ‘Suggestions’ widget.

## How to Activate Maps’ New Capability in iOS 26

To utilize this new capability, users must opt-in via a permission prompt due to the delicate nature of location information. The prompt underscores Apple’s commitment to privacy, indicating that preferred routes and anticipated destinations are stored privately on the device and not associated with the user’s Apple Account.

To activate this feature, users should select the ‘Continue’ and ‘Allow’ options when prompted. If the prompt is overlooked, the feature can be enabled by going to the Settings app, then to Apps, choosing Maps, and adjusting the toggle for ‘Preferred Routes & Predicted Destinations.’

## Conclusion

The new preferred routes functionality in Apple Maps aims to improve the commuting experience by delivering timely notifications about possible delays. Users are encouraged to opt-in to take advantage of this feature, which emphasizes privacy while providing practical support for daily travel.

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Reddit Enacts Worldwide Modifications to Improve Child Safety After Social Media Prohibition

**Australia’s Pioneering Social Media Prohibition for Youth: A Global Milestone**

Australia is poised to become the first democratic country to enforce a prohibition on social media use for individuals under the age of 16. This revolutionary legislation, which takes effect tomorrow, signifies escalating global apprehensions about the mental health effects of social media on adolescents. With lawmakers in numerous nations voicing analogous concerns, Australia’s action may set a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide.

This decision arises amidst heightened scrutiny of platforms like Instagram, which have been associated with various challenges faced by young people, such as issues with body image, cyberbullying, and exposure to sexual predators. An internal document from Meta, the parent company of Instagram, disclosed disturbing statistics: 32% of teenage girls indicated that Instagram worsened their negative perceptions of their bodies, which contributed to increased anxiety and depression among youth.

In reaction to these issues, numerous cities and states across the U.S. have started to enact or suggest legislation designed to protect children from the harmful effects of social media. Public sentiment shows robust backing for such initiatives; a recent survey revealed that more than two-thirds of participants believe the U.S. should take a cue from Australia in banning social media for minors.

**Reddit’s Preventative Measures for Adolescent Safety**

In response to Australia’s latest law, Reddit is proactively implementing worldwide safety features for adolescents. The platform will introduce enhanced protections for users under 18, which include stricter chat regulations, the elimination of personalized advertisements, and limited access to adult content. While Reddit acknowledges that certain changes are legally required, the company is also willingly adopting measures to bolster user safety and privacy.

This effort by Reddit underscores a rising trend among social media companies to focus on the safety of younger users. As the social media climate continues to change, it is essential for businesses to adjust and incorporate strategies that shield vulnerable groups.

**Conclusion**

Australia’s groundbreaking ban on social media for minors signifies a key transformation in how governments are tackling the difficulties posed by digital platforms. As worries about the mental health ramifications of social media intensify, other nations may emulate this move, resulting in a more regulated framework for social media engagement among youth. The proactive strategies being adopted by platforms like Reddit could act as a benchmark for others, highlighting the importance of user safety in the digital era.

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Apple TV Set to Premiere New Series Based on Beloved Novel with an A-List Cast

### ‘Margo’s Got Financial Issues’ Sets Apple TV Premiere Date

Apple TV has revealed the premiere date for its eagerly awaited series, ‘Margo’s Got Financial Issues,’ inspired by the bestselling book by Rufi Thorpe. The series, created by A24 and David E. Kelley, is set to launch on **Wednesday, April 15, 2026**, with the initial three episodes accessible at the start, followed by new episodes released weekly until May 20.

The show features Elle Fanning in the role of Margo, a recent university dropout with aspirations of becoming a writer, alongside a skilled ensemble that includes Michelle Pfeiffer, Nicole Kidman, Nick Offerman, and Marcia Gay Harden. The plot centers around Margo as she deals with the trials of new motherhood, financial difficulties, and her vibrant family history, which includes her mother, a former Hooter’s waitress, and her father, an ex-professional wrestler.

Apple TV is steadily enhancing its collection of original offerings, and ‘Margo’s Got Financial Issues’ is anticipated to appeal to viewers seeking a mix of touching and humorous family storytelling.

For those looking to tune in, Apple TV is offered at $12.99 monthly, showcasing a range of popular shows and films.

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Google Maps Launches Automatic Parking Spot Saving and Personalized Icons for iOS Users

**Google Maps Unveils Automatic Parking Spot Detection on iOS**

Google Maps has recently upgraded its features for iOS users by launching an automatic parking spot detection function. This latest update enables the app to identify when users have parked their vehicles, automatically saving the location with a unique icon, thus simplifying the process of locating your car later.

### Background on Parking Location Features

The capability to record parking spots in Google Maps is not entirely revolutionary. It has developed over the years through various phases, such as a button on Android Auto that prompts users upon reaching their destination and a manual saving feature present in the mobile app for almost ten years. Nevertheless, automating this procedure marks a notable improvement.

### Functionality of the New Feature

As detailed by Rio Akasaka, Senior Product Manager for Maps at Google, the new function activates when users link their iOS devices to their vehicles via USB, Bluetooth, or CarPlay. Once the app senses that the car is parked, it saves the location automatically. This saved spot will be retained for 48 hours unless the user manually deletes it or resumes driving.

### Existing Drawbacks

Although this feature is a positive enhancement for iOS users, Android users must still manually save their parking positions. There is currently no indication of when the automatic feature will be implemented for Android devices.

### Personalized Icons for Parking Spots

Alongside automatic detection, Google Maps has rolled out a feature enabling users to display their personalized car icons as parking icons. Previously, the parking icon was a universal “P,” but it now highlights the custom vehicle icon designated by the user. This customization feature has been available since 2020, and the recent update underscores its integration into the parking functionality.

### Summary

The automatic parking spot detection feature in Google Maps for iOS signifies a major advancement in user convenience. By removing the necessity for manual entries, Google Maps improves the driving experience, enabling users to concentrate on their journey without the stress of recalling where they parked. As Google continues to innovate, users can anticipate additional improvements to their navigation and location-based services.

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9to5Mac Daily: December 9, 2025 – News on Fitness+ Growth and Apple-Google Partnership

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Hub for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the latest news and trends is vital, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily acts as a key resource for listeners who wish to remain informed about Apple developments. This enlightening podcast summarizes the day’s top stories, ensuring you stay updated on significant news.

**Where to Listen**

9to5Mac Daily is available on multiple platforms, making it simple for listeners to catch up at their convenience. The podcast can be found on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
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**Episodes and Subscription Choices**

New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are produced every weekday, offering fresh content to listeners consistently. Subscribing to the podcast ensures that you receive new episodes promptly. For those seeking an upgraded experience, listeners can opt for 9to5Mac Daily Plus, which provides:

– Ad-free versions of every episode
– Additional bonus content

**Listener Engagement and Feedback**

Listeners are invited to interact with the podcast by sharing their opinions and feedback. You can connect via email at

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Four New iPhone Games Scheduled to Debut on Apple Arcade Next Month

Apple has revealed its selection of four new games debuting on Apple Arcade in January, scheduled to release on Thursday, January 8. The latest titles consist of:

1. **Cozy Caravan**: This mobile-exclusive game welcomes players to embark on a solo adventure that merges crafting, trading, and exploration within a beautifully inviting world. Players will journey with their caravan through scenic vistas, aiding communities, encountering various characters, and spreading goodwill.

2. **Sago Mini Jinja’s Garden**: Targeted at children aged 3-6, this fresh 3D open-world title enables players to cultivate gardens, gather ingredients, help friendly neighbors, and discover the environment at their leisure.

3. **True Skate+**: A superior edition of the ultimate skateboarding simulator, delivering a true-to-life skateboarding experience.

4. **Potion Punch 2+**: A unique Arcade adaptation of the acclaimed fast-paced time-management game, enhanced with a magical flair.

These new games will complement the current collection of over 200 titles available on Apple Arcade. The service is provided as a standalone subscription for $6.99 per month or as a part of the Apple One bundle, granting access to an extensive variety of games without advertisements or in-app purchases.

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