Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple TV+ Unveils Four Successive Weeks of Significant Debuts

Apple TV+ is experiencing its best year yet, and this momentum is expected to carry on into the fall with an impressive array of new shows and films. The upcoming four weeks will showcase this, highlighted by significant new premieres each week.

### September 17: The Morning Show

The Morning Show season 4 somehow succeeds in assembling an even more impressive cast than in previous seasons. It also presents a more somber narrative that addresses the influence of AI on journalism, infused with plenty of high-stakes drama.

Here’s Apple’s season overview:

> “The Morning Show” season four commences in spring 2024, nearly two years after season three’s events. With the UBA-NBN merger finalized, the newsroom faces new responsibilities, ulterior motives, and the difficult concept of truth in a polarized America. In a landscape filled with deepfakes, conspiracy theories, and corporate cover-ups — who can you rely on? And how can you discern what is genuinely real?

### September 24 & 26: Slow Horses and The Savant

Slow Horses season 5 reunites Jackson Lamb and his eclectic group of MI5 misfits for what promises to be yet another thrilling installment.

Gary Oldman leads the familiar stellar cast from earlier seasons, now accompanied by Ted Lasso’s Nick Mohammed. A testament to Slow Horses’ enduring quality, Apple TV+ has already granted the show a renewal for two additional seasons.

Here’s what to look forward to in season 5:

> In season five of “Slow Horses,” suspicions arise when resident tech whiz Roddy Ho lands a glamorous new girlfriend, but after a series of increasingly strange incidents unfold in the city, it falls to the Slow Horses to uncover the connections. After all, Lamb knows that in the realm of espionage, the London Rules — always have your back — are paramount.

The Savant premieres just two days after Slow Horses, offering viewers a different flavor of crime thriller.

This limited series draws inspiration from a 2019 Cosmopolitan article titled, “Is It Possible to Stop a Mass Shooting Before It Happens?” Jessica Chastain stars as the titular ‘Savant,’ who essentially deceives potential domestic extremists prior to their actions.

Here’s Apple’s synopsis:

> The gripping series centers around an undercover investigator known as “The Savant” (Chastain) as she infiltrates online hate groups to prevent domestic extremists from acting. The cast of “The Savant” also includes Nnamdi Asomugha, Cole Doman, Jordana Spiro, Trinity Lee Shirley, Toussaint Francois Battiste, and guest star Pablo Schreiber.

### October 3: The Lost Bus

The Lost Bus is the sole film on this list. Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera star in this intense, high-stakes movie directed by Paul Greengrass, which certainly appears poised for awards recognition.

Here’s Apple’s outline:

> From director Paul Greengrass and inspired by actual events, “The Lost Bus” is a thrilling journey through one of America’s most catastrophic wildfires as a wayward school bus driver (Matthew McConaughey) and a devoted teacher (America Ferrera) strive to rescue 22 children from the devastating blaze.

### October 10: The Last Frontier

The Last Frontier is a new Apple TV+ crime thriller that unleashes numerous violent inmates in rural Alaska following a plane crash, putting the local U.S. marshal (played by Jason Clarke) in a precarious position.

Here’s Apple’s series synopsis:

> “The Last Frontier” follows Frank Remnick (Clarke), the sole U.S. marshal overseeing the remote, rugged territories of Alaska. Remnick’s area of oversight is disrupted when a prison transport plane crashes in the secluded wilderness, releasing dozens of violent offenders. Charged with safeguarding the community he is sworn to protect, he begins to suspect that the crash was not fortuitous, but the initial phase of a meticulously devised plan with extensive and catastrophic ramifications.

Apple TV+ is available for $12.99 per month and features popular shows and films like Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Silo, and Shrinking.

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Apple’s Music Application in iOS 26 Unveils Favorite Functionality from Mac Edition

# Playlist Folders Now Available in Music App for iPhone and iPad

A significant trend in Apple’s software this year is integration, reflected in the new Liquid Glass design and enhanced feature consistency across platforms. In the pursuit of enhancing app feature consistency, there’s an exciting new option in the Music app of iOS 26 that was once exclusive to the Mac: the ability to create playlist folders.

Unlike many Apple applications, the Music app has a complicated history of offering unique functions on the Mac compared to the iPhone and iPad. This difference can be largely attributed to the fact that the Mac version of Music used to be iTunes. Apple revamped and rebranded it years back, yet a lot of the legacy iTunes features remained—without ever making it to the iOS Music app.

One notable feature that users have wished for on their iPhones and iPads is the creation of playlist folders. The Music app on the Mac has long provided the option to arrange playlists within folders. These folders would sync to other devices, but users were unable to create or modify them outside of macOS.

Thankfully, iOS and iPadOS 26 have addressed this constraint. Users can now create playlist folders and move playlists between them directly from their iPhone or iPad. This is a major upgrade for those who like to organize their music collections on mobile devices.

Folder creation has been around on macOS for quite some time, and Apple has repeatedly overlooked adding this feature to its other platforms. Many users feared that it might eventually be eliminated, even from the Mac. The addition of this functionality in iOS 26 is a delightful revelation, particularly for those who don’t frequently utilize a Mac. Playlist folders offer an excellent means of keeping an expanding music library well-organized.

Alongside playlist folders, iOS 26 has unveiled another highly anticipated feature: pinned music. This upgrade further underscores Apple’s dedication to enhancing the Music app across all devices.

Were you aware that playlist folders were present in Apple’s Music app? Do you think you’ll make use of them in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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9to5Mac Daily: September 12, 2025 – Summary of iPhone 17 Pre-Orders and Other News

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Essential Source for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the latest news and trends is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides a seamless way to catch up on the day’s leading stories, offering listeners thoughtful analysis and commentary on Apple products, software advancements, and market trends.

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New installments of 9to5Mac Daily are produced each weekday, ensuring that listeners receive prompt updates on the latest events within the Apple ecosystem. Subscribing to the podcast ensures new episodes are sent right to you as they are released.

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Every episode features a mix of topics important to Apple users, including product launches, software updates, and perspectives on the tech industry. This makes it indispensable for anyone wanting to stay updated on Apple.

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Ex-Apple Intelligence Head, Accountable for Postponed Features, Leaving the Firm

### The Future of Siri: Obstacles and Progress in Apple’s AI Assistant

In June 2024, Apple unveiled a notably enhanced version of Siri, driven by sophisticated artificial intelligence features. However, by May 2025, the release of this updated version encountered setbacks, leading to an inspiring address from Robby Walker, the then-senior director of the Siri initiative. Walker’s comments illuminated the difficulties the team faced in producing a product that satisfied Apple’s stringent criteria.

During a team gathering, Walker employed a striking analogy, likening the undertaking to a failed effort to swim to Hawaii. He stressed that although the team put forth significant effort—similar to setting a Guinness World Record for swimming distance—the ultimate objective had not been attained. This comparison highlighted the pressure the Siri team experienced, as they were critiqued not for their dedication but for failing to arrive at their target.

Walker also framed the scenario within the competitive environment, pointing out that while some competitors had launched subpar versions of comparable features, Apple remained steadfast in upholding its quality standards. Following this, Walker moved to a different team, concentrating on an AI search project known as Answers. Apple has since turned to OpenAI’s ChatGPT to elevate Siri’s functionalities.

As of September 2025, reports have suggested that Walker plans to depart from Apple at the end of October, even though the Answers project he contributed to is anticipated to persist and debut in 2026. After the delay in the Siri project, leadership transitioned from AI chief John Giannandrea to Mike Rockwell, recognized for his contributions to Apple Vision Pro and visionOS.

Looking forward, Apple intends to launch the refreshed version of Siri by spring 2026. Speculation indicates that the company may leverage Google’s Gemini model to boost Siri’s capabilities. Despite ongoing legal issues surrounding its search agreement with Google, which continues to be a crucial revenue stream for Apple, the company is considering multiple avenues to ensure the upgraded Siri satisfies user demands.

In conclusion, while Apple confronts challenges in the advancement of its AI assistant, the company remains dedicated to providing a high-quality product that resonates with its brand identity. The future of Siri, strengthened by innovations in AI and prospective partnerships, appears promising as Apple maneuvers through the intricacies of the tech landscape.

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HomeKit Weekly: SwitchBot’s Evaporative Humidifier Boosts Features with Matter 1.4 Compatibility

### SwitchBot Evaporative Humidifier: Upgraded with Matter 1.4 Compatibility

SwitchBot launched its Evaporative Humidifier the previous year, and it has recently undergone an enhancement with new firmware that now supports Matter 1.4. This upgrade improves the device’s setup speed and interoperability, converting it from a standard “dumb appliance” into a valuable smart home component.

#### Distinct Cold Evaporation Method

Unlike numerous humidifiers that emit mist, the SwitchBot Evaporative Humidifier utilizes cold evaporation. A fan moves air over a saturated wick filter, raising humidity levels without producing mist or white residue. With a peak output of 750 mL per hour and a running time of up to 22.5 hours, it is perfect for homes with small kids, allergy sufferers, or anyone looking for purer moisture in the atmosphere.

#### Improved Capability with Matter 1.4

The arrival of Matter 1.4 introduces various new functionalities, such as enhanced multi-platform access, streamlined setup, and compatibility with more device types. When connected to the SwitchBot Hub 2, users can operate the humidifier through HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home without needing to connect it to each platform individually. This integration facilitates voice control via Siri and enables the creation of automation in tandem with other HomeKit devices.

#### Silent Performance

The humidifier is equipped with a 4.5-liter tank that is simple to refill, and the wick filter can last up to four years depending on the quality of water used. A transparent water level indicator allows users to monitor the status without needing to take out the tank. Operating at a noise level below 18 dB, it functions quietly, making it ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, or offices. Its compact design and included wheels make it easy to move throughout the home, allowing it to effectively address dry areas in various rooms.

#### Seamless Integration with the S10 Vacuum

The SwitchBot Evaporative Humidifier can connect with the SwitchBot Floor Cleaning Robot S10. When both devices are on the same system, the S10 can automatically refill the humidifier using its common water supply. This feature minimizes the frequency of manual tank refills and helps sustain consistent humidity levels, although it does not function through Matter.

#### Summary

For those who acquired the SwitchBot Evaporative Humidifier last year, the enhanced Matter 1.4 support greatly improves its capabilities. With quicker setup, better cross-platform control, and enhanced automation features, it integrates effortlessly into smart home settings. This quiet, low-maintenance unit has become even more advantageous without requiring additional purchases, thanks to complimentary firmware updates.

You can buy the SwitchBot Evaporative Humidifier from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4mmA3IJ) or directly from

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Apple’s Revamped Product Timeline Indicates Imminent October Event

Apple’s September event took place earlier this week, signaling the introduction of new models for iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. As preorders have commenced, focus now turns to the possibility of an October event, a month historically reserved for further product unveilings.

### Apple’s October Event and Launch History

Though September is generally Apple’s most crucial launch month, the company frequently follows up with more announcements in October. In recent years, various product launches have occurred:

– **2024**: M4 MacBook Pro, M4 iMac, M4 Mac mini, iPad mini
– **2023**: M3 MacBook Pro, M3 iMac
– **2022**: Apple TV 4K, M2 iPad Pro, base model iPad
– **2021**: M1 MacBook Pro, AirPods 3, HomePod mini colors featuring Apple Music Voice

In both 2023 and 2021, Apple conducted October events, whereas in 2022, it preferred press release announcements. The distinct method in 2024 involved announcing the iPad mini through a press release, while the M4 Macs debuted over three consecutive days. If last year’s introduction of M4 Macs was successful, a similar multi-day launch could be anticipated this year.

### Apple Has Numerous New Products for a Potential October Event

Speculation indicates that at least five new products are scheduled for release this fall. While Apple usually introduces new Macs in October, the expected M5 MacBook Pro has reportedly been postponed until early 2026. Another possible product is an economical 12.9-inch MacBook featuring an A18 Pro chip, although its release might also be deferred to early 2026.

Even in the absence of new Macs, Apple possesses several items that could easily fill an October event or be divided into multiple announcements:

– **AirTag 2**: This popular tracking gadget may receive notable upgrades, meriting its own showcase.
– **M5 iPad Pro and Vision Pro 2**: These devices could be presented together to demonstrate the capabilities of the M5 chip, as significant advancements beyond the chip are not anticipated.
– **Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini**: These products could be highlighted in a presentation concentrated on Apple Home, paving the way for next year’s more extensive smart home initiatives.

Furthermore, Apple might showcase its services, such as advertising new shows on Apple TV+ or enhancements in Apple Music, possibly resulting in an updated Apple One bundle.

These forthcoming announcements could warrant an hour-long October event or a series of shorter unveilings spread over several days. Unlike the more predictable launches in September, Apple usually keeps its October strategies under wraps, leaving fans in suspense.

Do you believe Apple will host an October event? Share your opinions in the comments.

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Totallee Unveils Ultra-Thin Cases for iPhone 17 Pro Max, 17 Pro, 17, and Air

**Totallee’s Sleek iPhone Cases: An In-Depth Look**

Totallee, a brand celebrated for its premium, ultra-slim iPhone cases, has been a key player in the mobile accessories industry since 2013. Dedicated to delivering daily protection without added bulk, Totallee has recently broadened its selection to feature cases for the newest iPhone models.

### Product Lineup

Totallee’s cases come in a variety of colors and three unique styles, catering to various preferences and requirements.

#### 1. The Scarf – Slim iPhone Case ($35-$39)

The Scarf is Totallee’s flagship case, recognized for its minimalist aesthetic. At just 0.02 inches in thickness and a light 0.01 ounces, it offers a protective layer while retaining the iPhone’s original feel. This case is especially ideal for iPhone Air users, as it maintains the phone’s shape. Offered with or without built-in MagSafe, the Scarf is available in ten different finishes.

#### 2. The Spy – Transparent Case ($35-$39)

For users who want to display their new iPhone while ensuring safety, the Spy case is a fantastic option. This almost invisible case is crafted from a soft, grippy TPU material that absorbs impact and is tested to withstand drops from up to 6 feet. Unlike many transparent cases, the Spy is designed to prevent yellowing over time, backed by Totallee’s two-year warranty. Its branding-free approach ensures attention stays on the iPhone itself.

#### 3. The Doberman – Durable iPhone Case ($39)

The Doberman case is tailored for those seeking robust protection without losing elegance. This durable, shock-absorbing case is drop-tested for up to 10 feet and comes with raised edges to safeguard the screen and camera. Its rubbery finish and subtle texture improve grip, making it a dependable choice for everyday use. The Doberman merges toughness with a slim design, allowing users to enjoy optimal protection in a sleek form.

### Warranty and Availability

All Totallee cases begin at $35 and include a two-year warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction and reassurance. With cases readily available, customers can place their orders now to get their Totallee case in time for their new iPhone’s arrival.

### Conclusion

Totallee presents a varied selection of cases for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17, and iPhone Air, alongside options for older models. Beyond cases, Totallee also offers accessories such as seamless edge-to-edge screen protectors. For those eager to explore Totallee’s complete product range, visit their website to discover the ideal case that blends style, protection, and functionality.

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tvOS 26 Brings a Fresh Home Screen Icon That Isn’t a New Application

**Apple Music Sing Receives a Dedicated App Icon in tvOS 26, Yet Remains the Same Music App**

tvOS 26 is poised for release next week, introducing an updated app icon on the Home Screen: Sing. However, users may want to manage their anticipation.

Apple Music Sing has been around for years, enabling users to partake in karaoke with the vast Apple Music library. This feature functions across multiple Apple devices, but the Apple TV 4K is particularly well-suited due to its large screen, ideal for karaoke gatherings.

With the arrival of tvOS 26 and iOS 26, Apple has rolled out improvements to this feature, including the capability to utilize an iPhone as a karaoke microphone. This enhancement aims to boost the karaoke experience for users.

After updating to tvOS 26, users will observe a new Sing app icon on the Apple TV Home Screen, contingent on their hardware being compatible with the update. At first glance, it might appear that Apple has developed a standalone app for Sing, which would have been noteworthy. However, the truth is that the Sing icon serves simply as a shortcut to the pre-existing Music app.

When users tap on the Sing icon, it opens the same Apple Music app as the original Music icon. The sole difference is that the new Sing icon takes users directly to the Sing tab within the Music app. Although this feature is handy, it does not provide a distinct Apple Music Sing app experience.

In summary, while the new Sing icon in tvOS 26 allows for more straightforward access to karaoke functionalities, it does not signify the launch of a separate application. Users can continue to enjoy Apple Music Sing on their Apple TV, particularly with the new iPhone microphone feature, but should not anticipate a standalone app.

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Deals on Technology: $200 Off 1TB M4 Pro Mac Mini, $300 Off 32GB MacBook Pro, AirPods Pro 3, iPhone 17 Cases, and Additional Items

**Pre-Order Discounts and Savings on Apple Products**

As the tech industry prepares for the latest announcements from Apple, customers are offered a variety of pre-order discount opportunities. Key products include the Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and AirPods Pro 3, all of which feature enticing pre-order promotions. In addition, recent price cuts on the M4 Pro Mac mini and M4 MacBook Pro models have gained the interest of tech enthusiasts and prospective buyers.

### M4 Pro Mac mini from Apple: $200 Off

B&H has recently revealed a notable price reduction on the M4 Pro Mac mini, equipped with 24GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. This model is now priced at **$1,399**, reduced from the standard price of **$1,599**, reflecting a **$200 savings**. This configuration is especially appealing for those in search of a robust machine without stepping into the pricier Mac Studio territory.

While there are alternative choices, such as the 512GB model listed on Amazon for just above **$1,300**, the M4 Pro Mac mini provides double the storage capacity, rendering it a more desirable option for users needing more space for applications and files. The M4 Pro Mac mini is tailored for users who require enhanced performance and storage, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals and creatives.

### Economical 32GB M4 MacBook Pro: $300 Off

Alongside the Mac mini, B&H has rolled out a **$300 price cut** on the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro with 32GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, lowering the price to **$1,699** from **$1,999**. This model stands out as it is currently the most cost-effective configuration with 32GB of RAM available, since similar alternatives are not found on Amazon.

The MacBook Pro series is recognized for its exceptional performance, and this model achieves a balance between power and portability, making it ideal for a range of tasks. For users who value RAM over storage, this configuration presents superb value, particularly when considering potential future costs of RAM and storage upgrades.

### Extra Discounts on Accessories

In addition to these remarkable deals on Apple’s latest devices, a variety of accessories are also being discounted. Noteworthy items include Satechi’s Mac mini Stand & Hub with SSD Enclosure, which is currently **25% off**, as well as a selection of iPhone 17 cases and screen protectors. Brands like Totallee and Dbrand are providing ultra-slim cases designed to offer protection without added bulk, appealing to consumers who favor a minimalist design.

### Conclusion

With the introduction of new Apple products and corresponding discounts, now presents a prime opportunity for consumers to think about upgrading their devices. The M4 Pro Mac mini and M4 MacBook Pro offer enticing options for those in need of powerful computing solutions, while the additional accessory discounts boost the overall value of these acquisitions. As these promotions are likely to draw interest, prospective buyers should act swiftly to secure optimal savings before they lapse.

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Decision Against Upgrading My iPhone Following Numerous Years

# The Choice to Delay Upgrading to the iPhone 17 Pro Max

As the yearly iPhone unveiling draws near, numerous tech aficionados look forward to the chance to enhance their devices. Traditionally, this season finds buyers ready on the Apple website and the Apple Store app, prepared to complete their purchases for the latest iterations. Nevertheless, this year introduces a distinct scenario for some, as the attraction of the iPhone 17 Pro Max may not be as enticing as in prior years.

## A Change in Upgrade Perspective

Traditionally, many users have felt the necessity to refresh their iPhones every year, motivated by notable technological leaps, especially in camera functionalities. The iPhone has transformed into a primary imaging device for numerous individuals, providing features that elevate photography and videography. Yet, for some, the choice to upgrade has shifted to a more philosophical level.

For instance, one user contemplates their transition from being a minimalist to reassessing their consumption tendencies. The choice to upgrade often depends on whether the new device meets a personal criterion: if it doesn’t spark a “hell, yes!” reaction, it might not justify the expense. This year, the iPhone 17 Pro Max has not achieved that benchmark for several users.

## Camera Enhancements: Pertinent or Not?

Apple’s newest iPhone models generally feature remarkable camera improvements. The iPhone 17 Pro Max brings forth characteristics like a Fusion 4x/8x telephoto lens, an upgraded Center Stage selfie camera, and ProRes RAW video capabilities. While these innovations may thrill content creators and professional videographers, they may not resonate with every individual.

For numerous users, particularly those who primarily utilize their iPhones for informal photography or videography, these enhancements may not be essential. Most users might find themselves favoring standard and wide-angle lenses more frequently than telephoto options. Furthermore, for those who seldom take selfies, the new Center Stage functionality may offer little allure.

## The Advantage of Retaining Current Models

For users in a comparable situation, the choice to keep their existing iPhone model can be warranted. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, for instance, continues to deliver excellent performance and fulfills the requirements of many users without necessitating an upgrade. The idea of selling an older model to mitigate the cost of a new one can also lose appeal when the new features do not align with individual usage trends.

## Looking Forward: The iPhone Fold

While the iPhone 17 Pro Max may not suit everyone this year, the future promises excitement with the expected iPhone Fold. This device offers a distinctive blend of portability and a larger display, attracting those who desire a balance of functionality and convenience. As users consider potential price and design trade-offs, the iPhone Fold could indeed pass the “hell, yes!” evaluation for numerous individuals.

## Conclusion

The decision to transition to the newest iPhone model is becoming increasingly intricate, shaped by personal principles, usage patterns, and the relevance of new enhancements. For some, the iPhone 17 Pro Max may lack sufficient motivation to make the switch, allowing them to retain their current devices for another year. As technology continues to progress, the decisions consumers make will mirror their unique needs and preferences, leading to a more customized approach to smartphone ownership.

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