Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**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.

**Musk Critiques ‘Excessive Power Concentration for Google’ Following Apple Alliance**

In a notable turn of events in the tech landscape, Apple has revealed a multi-year collaboration with Google, whereby Google’s Gemini will enhance new capabilities for Siri and the Apple Foundation Model. This partnership has elicited responses, notably from Elon Musk, who utilized the social media platform X to voice his apprehensions.

Musk’s Response

In the wake of the announcement, Musk denounced the alliance, describing it as “an excessive concentration of power” for Google. He pointed out the ramifications of Google’s supremacy, emphasizing that the tech giant already dominates significant platforms such as Android and Chrome. His remarks echo wider anxieties over the accumulation of power within a handful of tech powerhouses and its potential repercussions on competition.

Legal Complications

Musk’s condemnation arises as his company, xAI, is caught up in legal disputes with Apple and OpenAI. The lawsuit claims that the collaboration between Apple and OpenAI to incorporate ChatGPT into Siri and Apple Intelligence features undermines competition. Musk argues that this alliance hampers other AI firms, including his own Grok, from establishing a fair presence in the App Store.

Although the claims have largely been dismissed, the lawsuit is poised to continue after withstanding attempts to dismiss it by both Apple and OpenAI. Musk has previously asserted that Apple’s actions amount to an antitrust breach, claiming that the company is making it exceedingly difficult for any AI application other than OpenAI’s to ascend to the top of the App Store rankings.

Future Considerations

Musk’s remarks have incited speculation regarding possible future actions from xAI, including the idea of launching a mobile device, a notion Musk has alluded to previously. Some analysts interpret his comments as a cautionary signal, insinuating that he might attempt to challenge the Apple-Google alliance through legal avenues, akin to his current lawsuit against Apple and OpenAI.

Controversies Involving xAI

Compounding the intricacies of the situation, xAI has encountered international backlash and regulatory investigation due to the inappropriate use of its Grok chatbot, which has been linked to producing non-consensual and unsuitable material. This has resulted in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia prohibiting the app, instigating inquiries and demands for its removal from the App Store.

Conclusion

As the tech environment continues to transform, Musk’s response to the Apple-Google collaboration raises crucial inquiries regarding competition, power structure, and regulatory scrutiny in the AI domain. The results of Musk’s legal disputes and the future trajectory of xAI will be closely monitored as the industry grapples with these intricate matters.

The newest WhatsApp TestFlight build has brought a major improvement to the user experience with the incorporation of sticker suggestions. This feature simplifies the task of finding and sending stickers, making it easier for users to convey their thoughts in chats.

According to WABetaInfo, the WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.1.10.72 features a sticker suggestion tool akin to the one previously launched for Android users. This functionality is intended to propose relevant stickers as users draft their messages, thus minimizing the necessity to sift through the sticker panel by hand.

This feature operates alongside the message composer. When a user inputs an emoji linked to specific stickers, a small sticker icon pops up next to the send button in the input area. Tapping this icon allows users to browse a collection of stickers and GIFs relevant to the emoji just typed. Moreover, a “Show more results” button enables users to expand their choices without exiting the chat, enriching the overall messaging experience.

WABetaInfo mentions that the sticker suggestions are founded on preset emoji associations tied to stickers when they are created. Thus, the feature’s effectiveness hinges on the metadata provided by sticker makers. Stickers with these associations qualify to be suggested, ensuring that the results are both pertinent and contextually fitting. This system is especially advantageous for users possessing multiple sticker packs, helping WhatsApp curate suggestions efficiently.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that the feature does not currently accommodate stickers created using WhatsApp’s built-in sticker creator, as this tool does not facilitate emoji associations. This limitation could be adjusted before the feature’s formal launch, possibly expanding the array of stickers available for suggestions.

In conclusion, the implementation of sticker suggestions in the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS signifies a significant enhancement in the app’s capabilities, enabling a smoother and more interactive messaging experience. As users keep expressing themselves through stickers, this feature is set to improve communication by offering timely and relevant visual replies.

The Chrome Platform Status blog has verified that Chrome 150 will be the final version that supports macOS 12. Here’s the implication of that.

## This signifies no security updates, as well

From [Chrome Platform Status](https://chromestatus.com/feature/5077742779498496):

> Chrome 150 will be the final version compatible with macOS 12; Chrome 151 and later versions will not support macOS 12, which is beyond its support period with Apple. Operating on a supported OS is critical for maintaining security.

The article clarifies that while Chrome 150 will still function on Macs utilizing macOS 12 Monterey, it will show a warning infobar, as it “will not receive any further updates.”

This indicates that, apart from lacking new features, these Macs will also be devoid of bug fixes, performance enhancements, and, most crucially, security updates for [Google Chrome](https://9to5mac.com/guides/google-chrome/), putting users at increased risk of attacks.

Therefore, if you are a Chrome user still on macOS 12 Monterey, take heed: later this year, you will need to either upgrade to macOS 13 Ventura or a later version, or change browsers.

As for when this will take place, it remains uncertain.

Google has not provided a definitive timeline, but Chrome generally receives updates every 4 weeks for major releases. With the current stable version at 143, version 151 is likely to be released in roughly 32 weeks, around mid-to-late August.

Are you still on macOS 12 Monterey? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple and Google have formally declared a partnership to enhance Siri through Google’s Gemini AI models. This collaboration seeks to harness cutting-edge AI technology to elevate Apple’s voice assistant and other intelligent functionalities across its devices.

### Details of the Partnership

Last autumn, reports emerged suggesting that Apple was on the verge of finalizing a deal with Google to incorporate Gemini into Siri. The recent joint announcement from both firms affirmed this multi-year partnership, indicating that the upcoming generation of Apple Foundation Models will employ Google’s Gemini models and cloud technology. This integration is set to offer a more tailored Siri experience and improve various Apple Intelligence features on devices like iPhones, iPads, Macs, Vision Pro, and Apple Watches.

### Privacy Protections

A critical element of this agreement is the commitment to upholding Apple’s rigorous privacy standards. The contract guarantees that no user data will be accessible to Google, as the technology will be deployed with Apple’s established safeguards. This emphasis on privacy is vital for Apple, which has built its reputation on the protection of user data.

### Implications of the Public Announcement

The public nature of this alliance is viewed as advantageous for both firms. By making their collaboration known, Apple and Google share the accountability for the new AI features’ successes or failures. This openness could reduce the pressure on Apple, as any deficiencies in Siri’s performance will not rest solely with them. Furthermore, if the partnership succeeds, it may set the stage for future collaborations while enabling Apple to keep advancing its in-house AI models.

### Conclusion

The partnership between Apple and Google marks a significant advancement for Siri and Apple’s AI capabilities. With the incorporation of Google’s sophisticated AI technology, users can look forward to enhanced features and improved performance. As the collaboration progresses, it will be intriguing to observe how these developments influence the user experience throughout Apple’s ecosystem.

# iOS 26: Thrilling New Group Chat Features in Messages

iOS 26 brings a variety of upgrades for iPhone users, especially within the Messages app. Below are five significant new features that improve group chat interactions.

## 1. Typing Indicators

Typing indicators have been a fundamental part of iMessage for individual conversations. With iOS 26, this capability is now extended to group chats. Users can observe when others are composing messages, making discussions more dynamic and engaging.

## 2. Polls

The new Polls feature enables users to swiftly collect feedback from group members. Available through the ‘+’ button in the lower-left section of Messages, users can create polls to assess availability, meal choices, and more. For those utilizing Apple Intelligence, poll suggestions will pop up above the keyboard, simplifying the process.

## 3. Apple Cash for Groups

Apple Cash, which facilitates secure payments among Apple users, is now integrated into group chats. Once exclusive to one-on-one messaging, this feature allows users to conveniently send and request payments in group situations, such as sharing costs after outings or during group travels.

## 4. Backgrounds

To personalize group chats, iOS 26 offers customizable backgrounds. Users can press the group icon at the top of the chat to access the Backgrounds area, where they can select from pre-existing options or upload their own photos. Any chosen background will be visible to all group participants, enhancing the aesthetic of the chat.

## 5. Adding Contacts from Groups

iOS 26 streamlines the way users can add unknown numbers from group chats to their personal contacts. By selecting the group icon, users can see all current members and can easily add anyone not already in their contacts with the new ‘Add to Contacts’ feature, making it simple to keep new connections.

These fresh features in iOS 26 are designed to boost communication and interaction within group chats, making them more enjoyable and effective for users.

### OpenAI’s GPT-Image 1.5 Now Accessible on Adobe Firefly

Adobe has made notable advancements in incorporating AI-driven functionalities across its array of products, enriching the creative experience for users. Recently, Adobe declared the launch of OpenAI’s GPT-Image 1.5 model within Adobe Firefly, a step that highlights the company’s dedication to utilizing advanced technology in its offerings.

To commemorate this integration, Firefly Pro and Premium subscribers can create unlimited images using the GPT-Image 1.5 model until January 15. This promotion enables users to delve into the model’s capabilities without the limitations of generative credits, which are usually necessary for image creation.

Adobe Firefly is crafted to equip users with a powerful platform for generating images, audio, video, and design components. It incorporates various models from top AI laboratories, including OpenAI, Runway, and Google, along with Adobe’s proprietary models. This flexibility renders Firefly a crucial tool for creatives engaging across various mediums.

Firefly is integrated into numerous Adobe applications, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe Express, Substance 3D, InDesign, Lightroom, and Adobe Stock. The platform functions on a subscription model, providing several tiers of access to generative credits. While the Firefly Free plan offers limited credits, the Standard plan ($9.99/month) grants 2,000 credits, the Pro plan ($19.99/month) provides 4,000 credits, and the Premium plan ($199.99/month) includes a generous 50,000 credits.

Generative credits serve as tokens that users can use to produce high-quality outputs across various Creative Cloud applications. Each time a user generates an image or other content using Firefly or partner models, credits are utilized accordingly. This system facilitates a flexible and scalable method for content creation, accommodating both casual users and professional creatives.

For further details regarding Adobe Firefly and its features, users can explore the official Adobe website. The incorporation of OpenAI’s GPT-Image 1.5 model not only amplifies Firefly’s capabilities but also exemplifies Adobe’s ongoing initiatives to innovate within the creative sector.