Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple is confronted with baseless claims about deceiving users concerning the privacy aspects of App Tracking Transparency features.

**Apple’s Continuous Conflict with EU Regulators: Misinterpretations and Allegations**

A competition regulator has accused Apple of deceiving users about the privacy level offered by its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature. This claim, though made sincerely, arises from a misinterpretation of Apple’s execution of its privacy policies.

### Apple’s Continuous Conflict with EU Regulators

This recent occurrence is part of a wider dispute between Apple’s privacy practices and European regulations designed to prevent abuse of market dominance by large corporations. EU legislation mandates that Apple must create a level playing field for third-party businesses competing with its offerings. Should Apple have access to data that improves its product functionality, it is also required to share that data with rivals. Nevertheless, Apple asserts that its data access practices honor user privacy, and it cannot rely on third-party firms to maintain equivalent standards.

A recent case brought to light by the EU pertains to the Apple Watch’s capability to access the Wi-Fi history of a connected iPhone, a function that rival smartwatches do not possess. In light of regulatory pressure, Apple has chosen to eliminate this feature from EU Apple Watches rather than sharing the data with other companies.

### App Tracking Transparency

App Tracking Transparency is a feature that assigns a unique identifier to each device, allowing Apple to monitor user behavior without disclosing personal information. This system allows advertisers to target users based on their interests, such as promoting gadgets to those visiting technology sites.

Under ATT, app developers are required to seek user consent to track their activities across various apps and websites. The majority of users choose to opt out of such tracking, limiting apps’ ability to leverage the tracking system.

### Apple Accused of Deceiving Users

The Polish competition regulator, UOKiK, has initiated an inquiry into Apple, suspecting that the company may be limiting competition in the mobile advertising sector through its privacy policies. UOKiK President Tomasz Chrostny expressed concerns that the ATT policy might mislead users regarding their privacy protection while at the same time strengthening Apple’s competitive position against independent publishers.

Apple has refuted these claims and cautioned that it might need to withdraw the privacy feature from users in the EU.

In a statement, Apple reaffirmed its dedication to privacy, claiming that ATT was created to give users control over their data. The company acknowledged that while the tracking industry opposes its privacy measures, it is committed to collaborating with the Polish competition authority to preserve this crucial privacy tool for users.

### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

The allegations against Apple seem to stem from a misapprehension. While it is accurate that Apple does not display the tracking consent dialogue for its own applications, this is not the result of any clandestine data access. Rather, Apple has made the decision not to permit its own apps to access this data, thus negating the necessity for a permission prompt.

Apple has confirmed that it does not monitor its users. Given the recurring nature of this misunderstanding, it may be advantageous for Apple to incorporate the consent dialogue for its own applications, even if it does not plan to use the data if permission is obtained.

### Conclusion

As Apple navigates its ongoing conflict with EU regulators, the intricacies of privacy policies and competition laws continue to emerge. The allegations against Apple underscore the difficulties of reconciling user privacy with regulatory adherence and market competition.

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Roughly 100 iPhone Folds Manufactured After Progress in Crease Removal Technology

The iPhone Fold has progressed to the subsequent stage of its production following what is described as a “breakthrough” in removing the crease typically found in folding phones when positioned flat. While the display is being manufactured by Samsung, various components are reportedly designed by Apple and will be distinctive to this device.

### Eradicating the Crease

Folding smartphones have existed for seven years, yet they have faced numerous challenges. Issues include the display’s susceptibility to damage when dust becomes lodged in the device while folded, along with an unsightly crease that appears at the center of the screen when unfolded. A report earlier this year suggested that this issue has been resolved, and Apple expressed satisfaction with the samples received from display partner Samsung, after declining earlier versions presented by the South Korean firm.

### Apple Deeply Engaged in Addressing the Issue

Sources indicate that Apple was deeply engaged in the redesign of both the display panel and the folding mechanism to eliminate the crease. It is speculated that Apple has made notable advances in the development of the folding iPhone, achieving a “crease-free design.” The inner display is exclusively supplied by Samsung, yet the design of the panel structure, material processing, and laminated pressing technique are all the work of Apple. Critical component bearings are shared by Apple along with two suppliers, New Rixing and Amfeno, facilitating the integration of the panel and bearing to prevent the persistent creases that are typical in standard folding devices.

### iPhone Fold Advances to the Next Phase of Production

The initiative has now transitioned into the second phase of production, recognized as engineering validation or verification testing (EVT). Reports suggest that Honghai Group has set up an exclusive production line for the folding iPhone, signaling its shift from the experimental phase to the engineering verification and pre-production stage. This phase generally involves producing approximately one hundred units for testing, merging the functionality of the final product with a design that mirrors that of a real device.

The iPhone Fold, which the company might opt to label as the iPhone Ultra, is expected to carry a hefty price tag, with recent reports hinting at a cost as high as $2,400. The device is anticipated to be available for purchase sometime next year.

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Pocket Casts App Introduces Intelligent Playlists Functionality for Podcast Management

**Organizing Your Podcasts with Pocket Casts’ Updated Playlist Feature**

Pocket Casts, a widely-used podcast application, has recently unveiled a new playlist feature available on both its mobile and desktop platforms. This upgrade aims to assist users in better categorizing their preferred podcasts, facilitating the curation of listening experiences tailored to personal tastes.

### Manual and Smart Playlists

Users have the option to create playlists by hand or take advantage of the Smart Playlists feature, which automatically assembles episodes based on rules specified by the user. This combination allows for versatility in how listeners organize their podcast libraries.

#### Manual Playlists

Setting up a manual playlist is quite simple. Users can pick particular episodes from any podcast, even those they are not subscribed to, to add to their custom playlists. This feature is especially beneficial for sorting episodes based on specific themes, events, or areas of interest.

#### Smart Playlists

The Smart Playlists feature enhances organization further by automatically collecting episodes according to the user’s established criteria. For example, a “Quick Listen” Smart Playlist can be designed to include only episodes shorter than 25 minutes, making it perfect for users with a busy schedule.

### How to Create a Playlist

Creating a playlist in Pocket Casts is an easy task:

1. Go to the Playlists tab from the main screen.
2. Tap the “+” icon on mobile or click “New playlist” on the web.
3. Enter a name for your playlist and tap “Create playlist.”

After the playlist is created, users have the option to transform it into a Smart Playlist by selecting the option below the playlist name. This will bring up a menu for setting the rules that will dictate the Smart Playlist.

### Conclusion

The newly introduced playlist feature in Pocket Casts improves the user experience by offering powerful tools for organizing podcast material. Whether through manual curation or automatic Smart Playlists, users can now experience a more tailored listening journey. For more information about this feature, users can check the official Pocket Casts blog.

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Comparison between Apple MagSafe Battery and Anker Nano: The Top Power Banks for iPhone Air

**Comparative Analysis: Apple MagSafe Battery vs. Anker Nano Power Bank for iPhone Air**

**Update**: The Anker Nano is currently available at a 30% discount on Amazon for Black Friday.

The iPhone Air features remarkable battery longevity for users with moderate daily usage. However, for individuals who often find themselves away from a charging station for long durations, like when traveling, an external power supply is crucial. Apple has its own answer with the MagSafe Battery, designed to attach effortlessly to the back of the iPhone Air. Conversely, Anker offers a compelling alternative with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which promises increased capacity at a lower cost. This article delves into the design, efficiency, and performance of both battery solutions.

### Apple MagSafe Battery Design

The Apple MagSafe Battery is made from soft-touch plastic, with a cushioned rubbery front that adheres seamlessly to the iPhone Air. Measuring only 6.5mm thick, it encompasses the full width and height of the device, fitting snugly even with a bumper case. The design omits visible buttons or indicators; it features a single LED that briefly illuminates to show charging status when plugged into a power source. Users can check the battery percentage through the iOS Batteries widget, which also has a distinctive MagSafe lock screen animation.

### Anker Nano Design

The Anker Nano, while marginally thicker at 8.6mm, is constructed from a similar plastic material and is offered in black, white, or green. It includes one button that activates a row of four LEDs, reflecting the battery’s charge status in 25% increments. Although it is shorter than the Apple MagSafe Battery, it remains straightforward to attach to the iPhone Air, with a slight inset at the bottom.

### Charging Efficiency

Both power banks use magnetic connections for convenience, but wireless charging is not as efficient as wired methods. Energy losses of around 30% are typical with wireless charging. The Anker Nano boasts a capacity of 5,000 mAh, whereas the Apple MagSafe Battery has a capacity of approximately 3,149 mAh, similar to the battery within the iPhone Air. Apple asserts that its MagSafe Battery can yield roughly 65% extra charge to the iPhone Air.

In practical trials, the Apple MagSafe Battery charged the iPhone from 20% to 84% in approximately 75 minutes. In contrast, the Anker Nano fully charged the iPhone from 20% to 100% before depleting, offering an additional 16% charge beyond what Apple provides. This performance suggests that while the Apple battery is efficient, the Anker Nano’s greater capacity ultimately supplies more power.

### Conclusion

Ultimately, the Anker Nano Power Bank stands out as the better option for users seeking extended battery life for their iPhone Air. Although the Apple MagSafe Battery presents a more luxurious feel and seamless integration with iOS, it comes at a much higher price without matching performance. The Anker Nano, with its enhanced capacity and more economical price point, is perfect for travel and daily use, making it a sensible accessory for iPhone Air users.

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Major Black Friday Savings on iPad, iPad Air, and Additional Products Beginning at $274

### Black Friday Offers on Apple’s iPad Range

With Black Friday on the horizon, both Apple fans and casual users can seize substantial savings throughout the entire iPad range. Whether you’re seeking a device to enjoy your favorite series or a robust tablet for work, there are attractive choices available at lowered prices.

#### iPad Air: The Top All-Rounder

The M3 iPad Air emerges as the top pick for the majority of users, delivering an optimal blend of performance and cost. With a price reduction of $150 during Black Friday Week, this model offers sufficient power for those wanting an M-series Apple tablet without the inflated expense of the M5 Pro. It’s an outstanding selection for users requiring a proficient device without overspending.

#### Entry-Level iPad: Ideal for Everyday Use

For those requiring a simpler tablet, the newest entry-level iPad boasts an 11-inch screen and is offered for less than $280 this Black Friday. This model is perfect for families or younger users, providing a dependable device for daily activities without concerns about wear and tear.

#### iPad Mini: Sleek and Stylish

The iPad mini 7, recognized for its portability and charming design, is another choice available this Black Friday. While it may not match the power of the iPad Air, it presents a distinctive size that attracts users in search of a compact device. All models are currently $100 off, making it the most budget-friendly current-generation iPad able to support Apple Intelligence features.

#### iPad Pro: The Pinnacle of Power

For those desiring elite performance, the 2025 iPad Pro equipped with the M5 chip represents the most sophisticated tablet available. Although it carries a premium price, all models are currently $100 off for Black Friday. The iPad Pro is ideal for users aiming to replace a laptop with a high-powered tablet.

**Current Pricing for iPad Pro Models:**
– 13-inch M5 iPad Pro 256GB: **$1,199** (Reg. $1,299)
– 13-inch M5 iPad Pro 512GB: **$1,399** (Reg. $1,499)
– 13-inch M5 iPad Pro 1TB: **$1,769** (Reg. $1,899)
– 13-inch M5 iPad Pro nano-texture 1TB: **$1,899** (Reg. $1,999)
– 13-inch M5 iPad Pro 2TB: **$2,155** (Reg. $2,299)

#### Accessories to Boost Your iPad Experience

To enhance your iPad Pro, think about the Magic Keyboard, which converts the tablet into a fully functional computer, perfect for typing and productivity tasks. Furthermore, the Apple Pencil is a great accessory for creative users. This Black Friday, the Apple Pencil Pro is priced under $99, while the latest Apple Pencil (USB-C) is at a record low of $49.

In conclusion, Black Friday presents a fantastic chance to acquire an iPad or its accessories at discounted prices, addressing a diverse array of user requirements and tastes.

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IKEA Unveils Colorful New Speakers Featuring Remarkable Sound Excellence

IKEA has been at the forefront of merging technology with home decor by incorporating speakers into lighting solutions for quite some time. Their newest product range showcases updated versions of these integrated devices, featuring round speakers embellished with eye-catching graphics crafted by local artist Teklan. This partnership aims to elevate the visual appeal of living spaces while delivering superior sound quality.

The recently unveiled models are tailored to inject color and personality into any room. Teklan’s vivid designs are marked by striking patterns and surprising color blends, turning ordinary electronics into artistic statements that harmoniously blend with home settings. This collaboration highlights individual flair and whimsical design, fusing Teklan’s distinctive color palette with IKEA’s design acumen.

### Lamp Speakers

Among the notable offerings are the KULGLASS lamp speakers, influenced by the playful form of soft-serve ice cream. Offered in a spectrum of green, red, and brown with pink highlights, these speakers seek to contrast their technical elegance with a cozy and welcoming exterior. Teklan notes that the design aims to evoke nostalgic sentiments, with hues inspired by childhood recollections, including a particular shade of mint green reminiscent of an old bar of soap from her grandparents’ house.

### Round Speakers

The product collection also introduces three new round speakers, two of which function as freestanding units or can be wall-mounted, while the third is intended solely for wall installation. The SOLSKYDD series, which additionally includes a pristine white variant outside of the Teklan collaboration, is designed by Ola Wilborg, emphasizing both aesthetics and acoustics.

The speakers come in various sizes and characters: a compact portable model in bright orange with an eye-catching design, a medium-sized option in green embellished with beige and brown diagonal stripes, and a larger wall-mounted version featuring a textured orange finish. Each speaker is crafted to produce optical effects that express movement and liveliness, allowing them to interconnect with each other and with other compatible IKEA Bluetooth speakers for a multi-speaker setup.

### Pricing and Availability

The prices for these cutting-edge speakers range from $79.99 to $139.99. The worldwide launch of the new products is scheduled to commence in December, with availability in the United States set for January 1. Furthermore, IKEA has recently revealed 21 new Matter-compatible smart home devices, broadening their range in the smart home sector.

In conclusion, IKEA’s recent partnership with Teklan illustrates a creative fusion of technology and design, providing consumers with chic audio solutions that enhance both sound performance and home aesthetics.

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AirTag Unveils Upgraded Functionality for Better Travel Experience

**Apple Upgrades AirTag Luggage Monitoring with Delta Collaboration**

One of the primary applications for Apple’s AirTag is luggage monitoring, a capability that has received considerable attention, particularly among travelers. Recently, Apple unveiled a new upgrade to this feature, specifically in partnership with Delta Air Lines, intended to enhance the retrieval of misplaced luggage.

### Enhanced Integration with Airlines

Apple has created a novel integration tool that enables AirTag location data to be sent directly into Delta’s baggage management systems. This enhancement builds upon the “Share Item Location” capability introduced last year, which allowed users to share their AirTag’s position with certain airlines to aid in finding lost bags. The new API simplifies the process by minimizing the number of manual steps previously necessary for airline personnel to obtain AirTag location data.

As reported by travel magazine *Skift*, this integration does not substitute existing airline baggage systems but instead complements them, boosting their operational efficiency. Delta’s Ramsey Hammad mentioned that Apple carried out extensive testing at some of the busiest airports to verify the tool’s effectiveness.

### How the Location Sharing Function Operates

To use the AirTag’s location sharing function, users must explicitly communicate their AirTag’s position to the airline. The procedure remains the same, but the collaboration with Delta’s systems allows for a more fluid exchange of information, potentially hastening the baggage recovery process.

For travelers flying with Delta, here are the steps to share an AirTag’s location:

1. Launch the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
2. Navigate to the Items tab.
3. Select the AirTag or lost item.
4. Scroll down to find ‘Share Item Location.’
5. Follow the instructions to enable sharing.
6. Distribute the provided URL to your airline.

This optimized process aims to guarantee that if a bag is lost, Delta can swiftly access the location information, enhancing the likelihood of a quick recovery.

### Future Outlook

While the current integration is with Delta, Apple intends to broaden this feature to other major airlines in the future. This expansion could greatly improve the travel experience for many, offering reassurance to travelers worried about lost luggage.

In summary, Apple’s continuous enhancements to AirTag’s capabilities, particularly in collaboration with airlines, signify a major advancement in luggage tracking technology, making travel more convenient and less daunting for passengers.

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India Requires Pre-Installation of Non-Removable State Security Application on iPhones

The Indian authorities have instructed smartphone producers, including Apple, to pre-install a government-owned security app known as “Sanchar Saathi” on all mobile devices prior to their sale. This order, released by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), is designed to help users in retrieving lost or stolen phones. Nevertheless, it raises major privacy issues since users are unable to uninstall the app, potentially allowing for government surveillance of all devices.

Reports indicate that manufacturers have a 90-day timeframe to adhere to this directive, which also applies to currently existing devices via software updates. This action follows a prior requirement for end-to-end encrypted messaging applications to connect to the unique electronic serial number of SIM cards, enabling the government to trace users based on their SIM details.

While the government frames this initiative as a step towards user safety, critics contend that it violates individual privacy rights. The consequences of such tracking capabilities are significant, as they could allow the government to oversee citizens’ communications and movements without their approval.

Under pressure to comply, Apple may seek to negotiate conditions that permit users to voluntarily choose to install the app during device initialization instead of enforcing compulsory installation. The company has previously dealt with similar situations in other markets, such as China, where it has made compromises concerning user data privacy to sustain its market foothold.

As India emerges as an important market and production center for Apple, the company is positioned in a challenging scenario where it has to reconcile adherence to local laws with its promise to uphold user privacy. The ramifications of this mandate could establish a benchmark for how tech companies function in areas with strict governmental oversight.

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“Forthcoming ChatGPT Promotions: Methods for iPhone Users to Exclude Themselves”

**The Possible Arrival of Ads in ChatGPT: Anticipations**

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has previously conveyed his unease regarding the concept of integrating ads within the ChatGPT interface, describing it as “unsettling” and a “final resort.” Nevertheless, recent news implies that the incorporation of advertisements into the AI chatbot could soon be realized, particularly for users on the free plan.

### The Rise of ChatGPT Ads

Reports have emerged indicating that OpenAI is considering adding ads to ChatGPT, particularly for those utilizing the free version. Code fragments found in the latest beta version of the ChatGPT Android application provide compelling proof of this potential move. These fragments refer to features such as “ads feature,” “search ad,” and “bazaar content,” suggesting that preparations for ad integration are in progress.

During a Harvard Business School event last year, Altman acknowledged the difficulties of merging ads with AI, expressing that it is a model he would prefer to sidestep. Despite his hesitations, he did not entirely rule out the possibility, emphasizing the challenge of balancing business interests with user satisfaction.

### Consequences for iPhone Users

As the implementation of ads seems imminent, it is expected that both the iOS and Android versions of ChatGPT will be influenced. However, iPhone users might have a means to evade ads. By engaging Siri, users can pose questions that Siri cannot answer, leading the assistant to revert to ChatGPT. This process is governed by a partnership between Apple and OpenAI, which ensures that these interactions are excluded from AI training, and it is likely that ads will also not be included in these sessions.

### Final Thoughts

The potential arrival of ads in ChatGPT signifies a notable change in OpenAI’s monetization strategy. While Altman has raised alarms about this approach, the evidence indicates that the organization is proceeding with plans that could alter the user experience for free-tier subscribers. As events develop, users will need to remain updated on how these changes might influence their interactions with the AI chatbot.

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Overview of the iPhone 17 Pro Max Running on iPadOS 26

**iPadOS 26 and Its Effects on iOS 27: An Examination of Multitasking on the iPhone 17 Pro Max**

iPadOS 26 has unveiled an innovative windowing system that might act as a foreshadowing of the features expected in the upcoming foldable iPhone, projected to launch alongside iOS 27 next year. This new multitasking capability has garnered the interest of tech aficionados, especially after a user successfully loaded iPadOS onto an iPhone 17 Pro Max, offering insights into how this system could operate on Apple’s next-generation smartphone.

### User Interaction with iPadOS on iPhone 17 Pro Max

The enthusiasm surrounding the possibilities of iPadOS on iPhones was heightened when a user named Duy Tran posted a video on X, exhibiting the iPadOS 26 interface functioning on an iPhone 17 Pro Max. This showcase not only underscored the potential of the new multitasking features but also ignited conversations about how these abilities might be adapted for the forthcoming foldable iPhone.

### The Prospects of iOS 27 and the Foldable iPhone

Reports suggest that iOS 27 will emphasize improvements designed for Apple’s inaugural foldable device, commonly referred to as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra. Scheduled for release in the fall, the iPhone Fold is anticipated to have an internal display similar in dimensions to the iPad mini, indicating that an enhanced version of multitasking will be essential to optimize user interaction on this unique device.

The recent revamp of iPad multitasking in iPadOS 26 raises inquiries about whether these innovations will be incorporated into the iPhone Fold. Although it remains unclear, the prospect of modifying iPadOS features for the foldable’s unique design is captivating.

### Installation and Constraints

Duy Tran’s successful implementation of iPadOS on the iPhone 17 Pro Max was realized through an exploit, which has since been corrected in the latest iOS and iPadOS updates. This signifies that while the experiment yielded valuable insights, it may not serve as a sustainable long-term method for users desiring to utilize iPadOS on their iPhones.

As Apple gears up for the introduction of the iPhone Fold, it is improbable that the new multitasking features will be accessible on other iPhone models. However, there is a possibility that some innovations crafted for the foldable could eventually be adapted for the larger iOS ecosystem.

### Conclusion

The arrival of iPadOS 26 has paved the way for thrilling advancements in Apple’s software ecosystem, especially with the imminent iPhone Fold. As users speculate about the potential for multitasking capabilities on their devices, the excitement for iOS 27 continues to mount. Whether or not iPadOS features will be fully realized on the foldable is yet to be determined, but the recent trials with the iPhone 17 Pro Max offer a captivating glimpse of what may be possible in the near future.

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