Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

# Personalizing CarPlay in iOS 26: Five New Features

CarPlay has undergone a major enhancement with iOS 26, bringing a variety of novel features that expand user customization possibilities. Here are five methods to tailor your CarPlay experience.

## 1. Intelligent Display Zoom

Intelligent Display Zoom is a recent addition aimed at optimizing your CarPlay arrangement depending on the dimensions and form of your in-car display. The Intelligent Display Zoom toggle can be located in CarPlay’s Settings app under Display. This feature is disabled by default and might not be present in all vehicles, but it should be available in most contemporary cars.

## 2. Widgets

Widgets have finally arrived in CarPlay with iOS 26. They are placed to the left of your CarPlay Home Screen, allowing you to see anywhere from one to three widget stacks, based on your screen size. To modify your widgets, head to Settings on your iPhone, then General > CarPlay > Your Car > Widgets. You can add or delete widgets, with a limit of five per stack, and decide whether to enable Smart Rotate.

## 3. New Backgrounds

iOS 26 presents a variety of new backgrounds for CarPlay, providing a refreshed appearance for the interface. Six color variants are available, all adaptations of the new default iPhone wallpaper. Each background adjusts dynamically based on whether you are utilizing light mode or dark mode. You can alter your CarPlay background through the in-car Settings app under Wallpaper.

## 4. Text Resizing

For the first time, iOS 26 permits users to adjust text size within CarPlay, akin to the accessibility settings found on the iPhone. To modify the text size system-wide across CarPlay, follow these steps:
1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Select Accessibility, then Text Size.
3. Choose your desired text size, and CarPlay will provide a preview of the size.

## 5. Modify App Icon Styles

CarPlay now includes customization choices for app icon styles, reminiscent of the iPhone’s Home Screen. In CarPlay’s Settings app, you can select from Default, Dark, or Clear styles for app icons, which can be adjusted for light or dark mode. The clear style offers a transparent Liquid Glass appearance to your icons.

These new features in iOS 26 enable a more tailored and user-centric CarPlay experience. What are your preferred methods to personalize your CarPlay setup?

### Mayday: A Fresh Ryan Reynolds Film Arriving on Apple TV This September

Apple TV is preparing to unveil a much-awaited new movie named **Mayday**, featuring Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh. This film is characterized as a “genre-bending, action-packed buddy comedy that turns the spy thriller upside down.”

#### Release Date and Synopsis

**Mayday** is set to debut on **Friday, September 4** on Apple TV. The narrative centers on U.S. Navy pilot Lieutenant Troy “Assassin” Kelly, played by Reynolds, who embarks on a classified mission into Russian territory during the peak of the Cold War. The operation goes off course, leaving him trapped behind enemy lines. He is stumbled upon by Nikolai Ustinov, a tough ex-KGB operative portrayed by Branagh, who possesses an unexpected appreciation for American culture. The story unfolds around the unanticipated partnership that evolves between the two men, which might facilitate Troy’s rescue and foster an unforeseen camaraderie.

#### Official Storyline Description

Apple’s official storyline description offers insight into the film’s plot:

> “When ace U.S. Navy pilot Lieutenant Troy “Assassin” Kelly (Reynolds) is dispatched on a confidential mission into Russian territory during the peak of the Cold War, the initiative collapses, leaving him isolated behind enemy lines. Found by Nikolai Ustinov (Branagh), a stern ex-KGB operative with a liking for American culture, Troy believes he’s finished — but could an unexpected partnership between the two lead to Troy’s rescue and a relationship neither anticipated?”

#### Context and Anticipations

This film signifies Ryan Reynolds’ second leading role on Apple TV, following his appearance in the festive film **Spirited** alongside Will Ferrell. Although **Mayday** has the capacity for a theatrical release, Apple has chosen to launch it directly on its streaming service. In light of the success of earlier films like **F1: The Movie**, which excelled at the box office, Apple currently has no theatrical release plans scheduled for 2026.

#### Subscription Details

For those eager to view **Mayday** at its launch, Apple TV is priced at **$12.99 per month**, with savings available through the **Apple One package**.

As the launch day nears, excitement grows for what is expected to be a thrilling addition to Apple TV’s collection of original films.

### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Hub for Apple News and Insights

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the latest happenings is vital, particularly for Apple fans. **9to5Mac Daily** acts as a key resource, offering daily summaries of the most impactful stories within the Apple ecosystem. This enlightening podcast is crafted to keep listeners apprised of the newest developments, product unveilings, software revisions, and industry dynamics.

#### Subscribe and Tune In

Audiences can conveniently access **9to5Mac Daily** via multiple 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). For those who enjoy a more customized experience, a specific [RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) is provided for Overcast and other podcast applications.

#### Daily Shows

Fresh episodes of **9to5Mac Daily** are produced every weekday, guaranteeing that subscribers receive prompt updates on the latest events in the Apple sphere. Each episode includes discussions on diverse subjects, such as product evaluations, software enhancements, and insights into Apple’s corporate strategies.

#### Support and Advantages

Listeners can bolster the podcast by subscribing to **9to5Mac Daily Plus**, which presents numerous perks, such as ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus material. This subscription arrangement not only enriches the listening experience but also aids in maintaining the production of high-quality content.

#### Connect with the Community

**9to5Mac Daily** promotes listener interaction. Enthusiasts are welcome to express their opinions and feedback via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Moreover, fans can assist the podcast in expanding its reach by rating it on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808).

#### Sponsored Content

**9to5Mac Daily** receives support from sponsors such as **Bitwarden**, a secure, open-source password manager that provides end-to-end encryption and effortless autofill across devices. This collaboration not only aids in sustaining the podcast but also equips listeners with crucial tools to bolster their digital safety.

#### Conclusion

For anyone keen on Apple news and technology, **9to5Mac Daily** is an essential podcast to tune into. With its dedication to providing timely and pertinent content, it distinguishes itself as a trustworthy source for Apple enthusiasts eager to stay updated. Subscribe now and become part of the community of listeners who are passionate about everything Apple.

**Lepro STV1: Budget-Friendly Reactive Backlighting for Your Apple TV Configuration**

Reactive backlighting greatly improves the viewing experience by extending on-screen hues into the surrounding area. Nonetheless, conventional options often come with steep costs, particularly those that require HDMI sync boxes. Lepro seeks to alter this with the debut of the Lepro STV1, a more budget-conscious option that delivers immersive backlighting without the necessity for costly equipment.

### Cutting-Edge Camera Innovation

The key highlight of the Lepro STV1 is its incorporation of an ultra-wide camera. Unlike conventional systems that depend on expensive HDMI sync boxes, the STV1 utilizes a single camera outfitted with a fisheye ultra-wide-angle lens. This lens features a field of view exceeding 180 degrees, enabling it to capture colors from the entirety of a TV screen, accommodating sizes of up to 85 inches.

Lepro’s sophisticated Lens Correction technology performs distortion correction and zone mapping on the captured image, ensuring that the fisheye perspective is converted into an accurate display of the screen. This accuracy permits the STV1 to effectively recognize color zones, aligning the backlighting to the corresponding sections of the TV image.

### AI-Driven Lighting Features

Beyond screen synchronization, the Lepro STV1 integrates AI lighting functions through its LightGPM™ 4 AI Lighting Designer. This characteristic allows users to devise personalized lighting scenes using text, voice, or image cues. Whether it’s setting the ambiance for movie night, enhancing the vibe for game day, or customizing the room for various events, the STV1 provides flexibility in lighting design.

Additionally, the system is engineered to save energy; it automatically shuts off when the camera detects a blank screen, ensuring that the lighting is only operational when required.

### Product Options and Pricing

The Lepro STV1 comes in two lengths to suit different TV sizes. The 11.8-foot version is appropriate for 55- to 65-inch TVs and is priced at $89.99, while the 16.4-foot version is tailored for 75- to 85-inch TVs, costing $109.99.

### Conclusion

The Lepro STV1 offers a convincing and economical solution for anyone aiming to elevate their Apple TV setup with reactive backlighting. By utilizing groundbreaking camera technology and AI features, it provides a distinctive method to create an immersive home entertainment experience. The Lepro STV1 is now available for purchase, making it an appealing choice for tech enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

**SwitchBot Introduces New Smart Locks: Lock Vision and Lock Vision Pro**

SwitchBot has presented its newest advancements in smart home security with the launch of the SwitchBot Lock Vision and Lock Vision Pro. Tailored for Apple Home enthusiasts, these locks utilize Matter over Wi-Fi, allowing for connection without a dedicated hub; an Apple TV or HomePod is all that’s required. This article explores the functionalities and specifications of these cutting-edge smart locks.

### Biometrics and Facial Authentication

A key highlight of the Lock Vision series is its sophisticated 3D facial recognition technology. The system emits over 20,000 infrared dots to generate a precise 3D depth map of the user’s face, effectively thwarting unauthorized entry through images or videos. SwitchBot asserts that the lock can operate in less than one second and identifies users outfitted with glasses, hats, wigs, or heavy makeup. All biometric information is securely stored locally and safeguarded with AES-128 encryption for improved privacy.

The Lock Vision Pro variant broadens unlocking methods by integrating semiconductor fingerprint recognition and contactless palm scanning. The palm vein scanner leverages near-infrared technology to detect the distinct vascular patterns in the user’s hand without any physical contact with the device.

### A Dual Battery Configuration and mmWave Radar

To ensure dependable functionality, the SwitchBot Lock Vision incorporates a dual battery configuration. A 10,000mAh rechargeable battery is intended for everyday use, offering a lifespan of up to 12 months on a complete charge under typical conditions. Moreover, an auxiliary CR123A battery acts as a fallback, delivering up to 500 emergency unlocks if the primary battery depletes. Should both batteries run out while the user is away, a USB-C port on the outside facilitates a temporary power connection using a power bank.

To enhance battery performance, the Lock Vision utilizes mmWave radar technology, activating biometric scanning solely when an individual approaches the door, thereby saving power.

### Matter over Wi-Fi Compatibility

Both the Lock Vision and Lock Vision Pro support Matter over Wi-Fi, a notable benefit for Apple Home users. This compatibility enables effortless connectivity without the need for an additional hub. Aside from facial recognition, the locks provide alternate unlocking methods, including NFC cards, passcodes, auto-unlock through geo-fencing, and a conventional physical key.

### Lock Vision vs. Lock Vision Pro

When deliberating on which model to acquire, it’s crucial to recognize that both the Lock Vision and Lock Vision Pro encompass fundamental features such as a sizable battery, Matter over Wi-Fi compatibility, and 3D facial recognition. The Pro model validates its higher cost by presenting extra biometric capabilities.

– **SwitchBot Lock Vision ($169.99)**: Offers 3D facial recognition, passcodes, NFC card support, and Apple Home compatibility.

– **SwitchBot Lock Vision Pro ($229.99)**: Contains all the features of the standard model, in addition to semiconductor fingerprint recognition and contactless palm scanning.

### Conclusion

SwitchBot has effectively tackled numerous elements of contemporary smart home security with the Lock Vision series. Nonetheless, the lack of Apple Home Key support is a significant shortcoming. The SwitchBot Lock Vision is priced at $169.99, while the Lock Vision Pro retails for $229.99. Both models are now available for purchase on Amazon, with launch day promotions currently active.

**Mactracker Marks 25 Years with Significant Update**

Mactracker has become an essential tool for Apple aficionados, offering detailed information on every Apple hardware and software launch over the past 25 years. To celebrate this important milestone, the app has released a significant update for iPhone and iPad, unveiling a myriad of new features aimed at improving user experience.

**Unveiling Mactracker 5**

The newest version, Mactracker 5, introduces several thrilling features. Developer Ian Page shared that the update contains a new Compare feature, which enables users to spot differences between various Apple devices. This tool is particularly beneficial for individuals wanting to compare the specifications and attributes of different models, such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the original iPhone.

Moreover, Mactracker 5 rolls out a “My Models” feature, allowing users to monitor details about their personal Apple collections. This capability is backed by iCloud Drive support, facilitating effortless syncing of collection information across all devices.

**Highlights of Mactracker 5**

The update encompasses the following enhancements:

– Inclusion of the iPhone Air MagSafe Battery.
– Compare feature to showcase differences between models.
– “My Models” functionality to monitor details about personal Apple collections.
– iCloud Drive support for synchronizing “My Models” across devices.
– Summary view for insights on the “My Models” collection.
– Option to log the physical condition of entries in “My Models.”
– Various enhancements to user interface and performance.
– Startup Chimes can now be heard in Silent Mode.
– Updated information on the latest OS releases.
– A number of minor modifications and additions.

**Availability**

Mactracker 5 is offered for free on the App Store for both iPhone and iPad users. Furthermore, Mactracker for Mac can be obtained for free, either directly or through the Mac App Store.

For additional information about Mactracker and ways to support the app, visit the official website.

**Conclusion**

As it celebrates its 25th anniversary, Mactracker continues to progress, providing Apple enthusiasts with a powerful tool to keep track of their favorite devices and software. The new features in Mactracker 5 are set to enhance the user experience, simplifying the exploration of the extensive history of Apple products.

### Revolutionizing Task Organization: Utilizing a Calendar as Your To-Do List

A to-do list is a widely used instrument for task organization, whether it’s in the form of a handwritten note or a digital application. Yet, an alternative method that has gained popularity is employing a calendar as a to-do list. This technique provides several benefits that can boost productivity and offer a clearer picture of one’s obligations.

#### The Idea

Rather than keeping a conventional to-do list, the concept is to arrange tasks directly on a calendar. This strategy arose from the insight that merely listing tasks can result in feelings of overwhelm and unrealistic expectations regarding achievable goals. By designating specific time slots for every task, individuals can prioritize effectively and handle their time more realistically.

#### Advantages of Using a Calendar for Task Organization

1. **Critical and High-Priority Tasks Are Completed Promptly**: By allotting urgent tasks to early slots, they are more likely to be accomplished quickly without relying on additional indicators like color coding or priority tags.

2. **Consistent Completion of Other Tasks**: Less urgent tasks are still assigned dedicated time slots, ensuring they aren’t neglected. Calendar notifications act as reminders, prompting actions at the specified time.

3. **Keeping a Practical To-Do List**: This method helps avoid overcommitting. Since tasks can only be added if there’s time available, it becomes simpler to manage expectations and prevent burnout.

4. **Assessing Life Balance**: A calendar offers a visual depiction of time allocated to various activities, assisting individuals in evaluating their work-life balance and making sure they set aside time for personal interests, growth, and rest.

5. **Integration with Reminder Tools**: Leveraging applications like Reminders can enhance this method. For example, if a task comes up unexpectedly, a quick voice command can input it into the calendar, ensuring it is not missed.

#### Final Thoughts

Embracing a calendar as a to-do list can simplify task organization, enhance productivity, and nurture a better comprehension of one’s time commitments. By visualizing tasks within a structured plan, individuals can attain a more balanced and realistic approach to their daily duties.

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple Updates and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the newest trends is essential, particularly for Apple aficionados. 9to5Mac Daily provides a streamlined way to review the day’s most important headlines, giving listeners a summary of impactful news related to Apple and its ecosystem.

**Podcast Accessibility**

Listeners can conveniently tune into 9to5Mac Daily on multiple platforms, including [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](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/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), or through a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications. Fresh episodes are produced every weekday, guaranteeing that subscribers receive prompt updates on the latest Apple news.

**Sponsorship and Support**

The podcast is backed by [Bitwarden](https://bit.ly/48staRo), a secure, open-source password management tool that features end-to-end encryption and seamless autofill options across devices. This collaboration underscores the significance of security in today’s digital world, enabling users to manage their passwords with ease.

**Subscription Benefits**

Listeners can elevate their experience by subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus. This subscription provides ad-free versions of each episode and additional content, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of the topics that matter most to Apple enthusiasts.

**Engagement and Feedback**

9to5Mac Daily invites listener participation. Fans are encouraged to share their feedback by emailing [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) and are welcome to rate the podcast on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) to assist others in discovering the show.

**Conclusion**

For anyone interested in Apple updates, 9to5Mac Daily is an essential resource. With its straightforward accessibility, engaging content, and avenues for listener interaction, it distinguishes itself as a leading podcast for tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re a casual user or a devoted Apple supporter, listening to 9to5Mac Daily will keep you informed and connected to the latest in the Apple realm.

The group responsible for the initial public macOS kernel memory corruption exploit on M5 silicon has revealed new insights on how Mythos Preview facilitated the evasion of a five-year Apple security initiative in just five days.

## A touch of technical context

Last year, Apple launched Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE), a hardware-augmented memory safety framework aimed at significantly complicating memory corruption exploits. MIE is founded on Arm’s Memory Tagging Extension (MTE), a specification that serves as a mechanism for hardware to aid in detecting memory corruption flaws.

At its essence, MTE is a system for tagging memory and checking tags, where each memory allocation is assigned a secret tag; the hardware ensures that subsequent memory access requests are honored only if they contain the matching tag. When the tags do not correspond, the application fails, and the occurrence is logged. This enables developers to promptly detect memory corruption issues as they arise.

Nonetheless, Apple determined that MTE was insufficient in certain scenarios, prompting the creation of MIE, which is embedded in Apple hardware and software across all models of iPhone 17 and iPhone Air. MIE utilizes the chip itself to assist in identifying and preventing specific memory corruption attacks prior to their exploitation.

## Introducing the Calif team

Recently, security analysts at Calif employed Anthropic’s Mythos Preview model to unveil a new macOS security flaw by intertwining two bugs with several techniques to compromise the Mac’s memory and access areas of the device that should remain off-limits.

The team has provided further insights on how they carried out the exploit, including a 20-second video showcasing the kernel memory corruption exploit in effect. They observed that while Apple dedicated most of its MIE efforts towards iOS, it has recently extended it to MacBooks with the M5 chip.

According to the Calif team, Apple invested five years in developing MIE, likely allocating billions of dollars. Their research suggested that MIE thwarts every public exploit chain targeting modern iOS, including the recently disclosed Coruna and Darksword exploit kits.

The Calif team compromised MIE on the M5 in merely five days. Their macOS attack vector was an unintentional finding, with the initial bugs uncovered on April 25th and a functional exploit ready by May 1st. The exploit constitutes a data-only kernel local privilege escalation chain directed at macOS 26.4.1 (25E253), initiating from a non-privileged local user and culminating in a root shell.

They possess a 55-page technical document detailing the hack, which they will withhold until Apple releases a remedy for the exploit. Nonetheless, they indicated that Mythos Preview was instrumental in pinpointing the bugs and aiding throughout the exploit development phase.

Mythos Preview is highly effective; once it acquires knowledge of how to tackle a category of issues, it generalizes to virtually any challenge within that category. The bugs were identified swiftly because they align with known bug categories, but circumventing MIE, a new premier mitigation, necessitated human skill.

The Calif team aimed to evaluate the synergy between sophisticated AI models and human knowledge. Accomplishing a kernel memory corruption exploit against leading protections in a mere week is noteworthy and underscores the potential of this collaboration.

Their finding led to a visit to Apple Park, where they presented their vulnerability research report directly to Apple. They noted that Apple’s MIE, akin to the majority of security mitigations, was formulated in an era preceding Mythos Preview, implying that as small teams harness AI, the realm of security vulnerabilities may undergo dramatic transformations.

For more information, you can read the complete post by the Calif team.

OpenAI has introduced a novel method to engage with its Codex application via your smartphone. An update to the ChatGPT mobile application enables remote access to Codex for Mac on iPhone, iPad, and Android devices.

## Accessing Codex on mobile through the ChatGPT app

Though Codex exists as a separate application on Mac, OpenAI is incorporating remote access functionalities within the ChatGPT mobile app.

“Codex is now integrated into the ChatGPT mobile app, allowing you to remain updated from anywhere while Codex efficiently carries out tasks across your laptops, devboxes, or remote settings,” OpenAI stated today.

OpenAI highlights scenarios involving the approval of Codex tasks and initiating new prompts for the system via your phone while you’re away from your desktop.

> As agents engage in lengthy tasks, a new collaborative dynamic is taking shape. To maintain workflow, you must be able to swiftly respond to inquiries, evaluate what Codex has processed, adjust course, endorse the next steps, or introduce a new concept.

“Codex within the ChatGPT mobile app offers a comprehensive mobile interface for accomplishing tasks with Codex,” claims the company.

“When you link to any machine running Codex (be it your laptop, a dedicated Mac mini, or a managed remote setup), the app retrieves the live status from that setup, enabling you to work seamlessly across ongoing threads, approvals, plugins, and project contexts.”

Here’s how the configuration process appears on the Mac application:

Upon initiation, Codex for Mac displays a QR code that you can scan using the iPhone, iPad, or Android version of ChatGPT.

## OpenAI asserts that ChatGPT’s new Codex functionalities provide more than just remote access

OpenAI describes the Codex features embedded in the ChatGPT mobile app as exceeding mere remote control.

> This extends beyond remote management of a solitary task or assigning new tasks to your computer. From your mobile device, you can navigate through all your threads, assess outputs, authorize commands, switch models, or launch something fresh. Your files, credentials, permissions, and local configurations remain on the machine where Codex operates, while updates are sent back to your mobile in real-time, encompassing screenshots, terminal outputs, diffs, test results, and authorizations.

Remote access to Codex via the ChatGPT mobile application is available now. The latest versions of Codex for Mac and ChatGPT for iOS and Android are necessary to get started.

OpenAI has indicated that support for remote management of Codex for Windows will be forthcoming.

You can discover more about the latest update [here](https://openai.com/index/work-with-codex-from-anywhere/).

Last month, Codex on the Mac acquired the ability to operate applications on your computer without taking control of the cursor. This means you can utilize Codex to execute tasks on your Mac while retaining the capability to use your machine simultaneously.

In addition to improving the Codex desktop app, OpenAI has recently launched a subscription tailored for Codex users. OpenAI also rolled out GPT-5.5, enhancing the functions of ChatGPT and Codex, along with Images 2 for image generation.

Codex made its debut on Mac in February after initially launching as a command line interface tool.

> Launching today as a preview on iOS and Android in all supported regions. Support for linking your mobile device to the Codex app on Windows is on the way. — OpenAI (@OpenAI) May 14, 2026