Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

The realm of smart homes is consistently progressing towards Matter, with Aqara being one of the key players propelling this evolution forward at a consistent rate with its new offerings this year. Their newest hub, the Aqara Hub M200, supersedes previous models and boasts a sleeker design, including Matter support. For HomeKit enthusiasts, this indicates a significant stride toward a future where additional Aqara accessories can effortlessly integrate with the Home app, while still capitalizing on Zigbee’s advantages under the hood.

### What the Aqara Hub M200 provides for HomeKit

The Aqara Hub M200 acts as the fresh gateway into the Aqara ecosystem, unlocking a variety of affordable accessory options. Fundamentally, it is a Zigbee 3.0 hub that endorses Matter and consequently HomeKit. This implies that accessories linked to the M200 can be shared with HomeKit via Matter, offering Apple users a straightforward route to incorporate switches, sensors, buttons, and other Aqara devices into the Home app. This process is quite similar to the functionality of the Hub M3, but features a more compact design.

Matter is the aspect that Apple and HomeKit supporters will find significant; for users relying on HomeKit as their primary smart home system, the M200 operates as a hub that effortlessly integrates supported Aqara accessories into HomeKit. There is no necessity to oversee multiple ecosystems. As the Matter specification evolves, incorporating new functionalities, a greater number of Aqara products will harmonize with the M200 and automatically be recognized in HomeKit, functioning seamlessly with your existing gear.

### Why Aqara remains pivotal in a Matter environment

Despite Matter’s deployment across the sector, Zigbee continues to be a robust protocol with budget-friendly devices that consumers appreciate. Aqara sensors are recognized for their speed, energy efficiency, and dependability. The Aqara Hub M200 enables you to take advantage of all the benefits provided by Zigbee while also engaging with the Matter ecosystem. For Apple users, this signifies the ability to expand your smart home utilizing Aqara sensors that are considerably less expensive than Wi-Fi-only alternatives, all while enjoying full HomeKit compatibility via Matter. A beneficial feature of the Wi-Fi is its dual-band support for both 2.4 and 5 GHz connections.

The Hub M200 also introduces the new Aqara Mobile Scenes feature, which allows you to activate multi-device scenes by long-pressing your iPhone or iPad. While not a HomeKit function, it serves as a handy add-on for quick access to routines without needing to open the Home app. Its usefulness will largely depend on how much interaction you have with the Aqara ecosystem beyond HomeKit support.

### Aqara Hub M200 standout characteristics

– Matter compatibility for integrating Aqara devices into HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and more
– Zigbee 3.0 hub that connects with Aqara equipment
– Local automation engine that ensures rules operate even without an internet connection
– Compact design featuring a gentle status light that can also function as a night light
– Compatible with the Aqara app for advanced scenes and Mobile Scenes shortcuts
– 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi

If you already own an Apple TV or HomePod serving as your HomeKit hub, the M200 becomes your link for Aqara devices. It gathers sensors, buttons, and switches and makes them accessible to HomeKit via Matter. From there, you can incorporate them into scenes or automations as you would with native HomeKit devices from other brands.

### Reasons to choose the Hub M200 over other Aqara hubs

Aqara has several hubs available currently, but the M200 occupies a favorable position. It is smaller and more cost-effective than the M3 and does not necessitate an Ethernet connection if not desired. It also fully supports Matter right from the start. For a setup focused on HomeKit, you don’t require all the advanced features offered by the M3. All you need is a reliable bridge that introduces devices into Apple Home without complications.

For those who already own an older Aqara hub, the M200 represents a compelling upgrade choice as it employs a newer implementation of Matter. It might emerge as the superior option moving forward as more Aqara products embrace Matter via Thread or Zigbee.

### Conclusion

At first glance, the Aqara Hub M200 may seem like a straightforward device, but it plays a vital role in HomeKit. With Matter establishing itself as the common language for smart home devices, hubs like the M200 contribute to prolonging the functionality of existing Zigbee accessories while making them compatible with HomeKit. If you desire the reliability of Aqara sensors and the convenience of the Home app, the Aqara Hub M200 is an effortless recommendation. Aqara offers a plethora of incredibly affordable accessories as well.

You can purchase the Aqara Hub M200 from either Aqara or Amazon.

### Edge Light: An Ingenious Method to Improve Video Calls on macOS 26.2

While the launch of iOS 26.2 took center stage, Apple unveiled macOS 26.2, featuring a groundbreaking video calling enhancement called Edge Light. This new capability is designed to elevate the video call experience by mimicking the effects of a conventional ring light using the Mac’s screen.

#### How Edge Light Functions

Edge Light works by generating a virtual ring light around the border of the Mac’s screen, brightening the user’s face during video calls. The technology supporting this feature is highly advanced. It employs the Neural Engine to identify the user’s face, dimensions, and placement within the frame, ensuring the best lighting conditions.

The Image Signal Processor fine-tunes the brightness of the Edge Light in accordance with the ambient environment, and users can adjust the light’s color temperature. All settings for Edge Light are readily available in the menu bar when the Mac’s camera is operational, alongside other options like Portrait Mode.

#### Compatibility and Features

Edge Light is compatible with all leading video conferencing platforms, including FaceTime, Zoom, WebEx, and Google Meet. Apple oversees the integration, which means developers do not have to implement extra features for compatibility. This smooth operation is a stark contrast to the manual adjustments necessary when using traditional ring lights.

Users have noticed a significant enhancement in video quality with Edge Light, even in brightly lit spaces. The feature alleviates the burden of achieving perfect lighting for every call, enabling users to join meetings with ease.

#### Edge Light Compatibility

Edge Light is available on all Mac models featuring Apple Silicon. For Macs released in 2024 or later, the feature can automatically engage in low-light situations. Older Mac models need to be manually activated through the menu bar. Moreover, Edge Light works with the Studio Display when linked to an Apple Silicon Mac and is also compatible with external cameras.

In summary, Edge Light in macOS 26.2 marks a notable leap in video calling technology, offering users a simple and efficient method to enhance their appearance during virtual meetings.

# Underrated Features of the Messages App: Essential Elements to Discover

Apple’s Messages app has developed considerably over time, integrating a multitude of features that improve user interaction and functionality. While numerous users rely on basic texting functions, there are various concealed features that can significantly enhance your communication. Here’s an overview of some of the top features you might not be utilizing yet.

## 1. Schedule Messages

The “Schedule Messages” feature enables users to designate texts for future sending. This is particularly advantageous for dispatching birthday greetings or reminders without needing to recall them at the perfect time.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Launch a conversation in the Messages app.
– Compose your message.
– Tap the **+** icon beside the text field.
– Select “Schedule Messages.”
– Pick the desired date and time.
– Tap “Send.”

Your message will show up in the thread with a dotted outline until it gets dispatched.

## 2. Safety Check-In

The “Safety Check-In” feature serves as a security tool that alerts a chosen contact upon your arrival at a particular place. It can also notify them if you face difficulties during your journey, making it an excellent option for parents or anyone wishing to confirm that their loved ones reach safely.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Open a conversation with the contact you wish to inform.
– Tap the **+** icon adjacent to the text box.
– Select “Safety Check-In.”
– Choose “When I arrive” or “After a timer.”
– Define your destination or time constraint.
– Review the information shared (location, battery status, signal).
– Tap “Start Safety Check-In.”

## 3. Voice Messages and Text Conversions

Sending voice messages is practical, but the text conversion option elevates it further. iOS automatically converts your audio messages into text, allowing you to read them instead of listening.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Open a chat.
– Tap the **+** icon adjacent to the text box.
– Select “Voice.”
– Record your message and tap the stop button.
– Tap “Send.”

The text conversion will appear immediately, allowing for reading or copying.

## 4. Direct Replies and Emoji Reactions

In group discussions, direct replies enable you to respond specifically to a message, clarifying conversations. Emoji reactions allow you to acknowledge messages without texting.

### Steps to Use Direct Replies:
– Long-press on the message you wish to respond to or swipe right.
– Type your reply.

### Steps to Use Emoji Reactions:
– Long-press or double-tap on the message.
– Select your emoji reaction from the available options.

You can now react using any emoji, broadening your choices beyond the previous six.

## 5. Favorited Conversations

Favoriting conversations ensures your most crucial chats are readily available. This feature is particularly beneficial for frequently contacted people.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Open the Messages app.
– Locate the conversation you want to favorite.
– Long-press on the conversation.
– Tap “Favorite” or swipe right and tap the star icon.

Keep in mind that you can only favorite up to nine conversations.

## Conclusion

The Messages app has evolved into a comprehensive messaging platform, competing with other popular apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. With functionalities like scheduling messages, safety check-ins, audio transcriptions, direct replies, and favorited conversations, it provides a rich communication experience. Discover these functionalities to elevate your messaging and maximize your iPhone’s features.

Building a smart home ecosystem can be challenging. With numerous product categories, figuring out which ones to focus on can be difficult. Here are some essential smart home suggestions for equipping your smart home — all of which would make excellent gifts this holiday season.

## Lutron Caséta

For smart lighting systems, the [Lutron Caséta system](https://geni.us/w1jn2) is unparalleled. Lutron’s smart lighting switches can replace your existing wall switches, allowing them to operate through smart control solutions, enabling you to easily turn the lights on and off.

## Smart Bulbs

If Lutron Caséta switches aren’t feasible for you, like in a rental situation, there are alternatives. Smart bulbs are a fundamental part of the HomeKit ecosystem, with more choices available now than ever. They are also extremely beneficial for use in lamps.

## Lutron Aurora

The Lutron Aurora is an excellent addition that addresses one of the most irritating limitations with Philips Hue smart bulbs. These smart lights become unresponsive when a wall switch is turned off since Hue bulbs need the lights to remain in the “on” position to be managed via the Hue app or HomeKit. The Lutron Aurora is designed to fit over your physical wall switches. After setting up the hardware, you integrate the Aurora with the Philips Hue app. The Lutron Aurora is [available on Amazon for just under $40](https://geni.us/DJIZHGx). If you use Philips Hue, this is a simple way to enhance your smart home experience.

## Home Key Smart Locks

A favorite feature of mine within HomeKit is Home Key. It allows you to lock and unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch. The pricing for Home Key-compatible smart locks can vary significantly. My preferred choice is the [Aqara Smart Lock U50](https://geni.us/JPN6), but other options are available as well.

## Smart Plugs

Smart plugs that work with HomeKit make fantastic stocking stuffers. They can convert nearly anything into a smart-enabled device, including lamps, light strips, Christmas trees, and more. I’m particularly fond of the [Meross Smart Plug Mini](https://geni.us/Q5XeMHG), which can be purchased in a [set of four on Amazon](https://geni.us/Q5XeMHG).

## Door and Window Sensors

Having recently moved from the suburbs to the city, ensuring my doors are securely latched and windows are closed has become increasingly important. Fortunately, there’s a HomeKit solution for that.

## Smart Thermostat

Upgrading to a smart thermostat is one of the best quality-of-life enhancements you can invest in. My top choice in this category is the [Ecobee Smart Thermostat](https://geni.us/8mp2), which seamlessly integrates with HomeKit and Siri and features a stylish, easy-to-install design. It sets the standard for smart thermostats.

## Water Sensor

For homeowners, water poses a significant threat to your property. A HomeKit water leak sensor will immediately alert you to any leaks. I suggest acquiring several of these to distribute around your home.

## Smart Light Strips

Smart light strips are a timeless option for accent lighting. Whether you apply them under cabinets, behind a TV, or anywhere else, they significantly enhance your space. I have smart light strips positioned behind my desk and TV, and they are my preferred method for adding accent lighting to my setups.

## Eve Flare

One of my favorite accessories for HomeKit is the [Eve Flare for accent lighting](https://geni.us/iT8WE). Its portable design and wireless charging feature allow for easy relocation around your home for added illumination.

## HomePod or Apple TV

If you’re launching a HomeKit setup from the ground up, you’ll require a home hub to manage your devices remotely. Both Apple TV and HomePod can serve as your hub. Through my experience, I find Apple TV to be the most dependable option.

## Wrap Up

These are just some of my favorite accessories for HomeKit. Many more options are available, and I will highlight a few below. What are your preferred HomeKit products? Share them with us in the comments.

### Current Apple Product Offers: AirPods Pro 3, iPad 11, MacBook Pro, and More

As the festive season nears, leading retailers are unleashing considerable markdowns on sought-after Apple products. Here’s a summary of the freshest deals that both tech aficionados and casual users should take into account.

#### AirPods Pro 3 at Historic Low Price

Amazon has once again reduced the price of the **AirPods Pro 3** to **$199**, reflecting a $50 reduction from its standard price of $249. This offer is particularly enticing as it matches the historic low price previously encountered during Black Friday. Shoppers can anticipate delivery before Christmas in most regions, making it a timely gifting option.

#### Best Buy’s iPad 11 Deal

Best Buy is presently providing the **current-generation iPad 11** for **$274**, reverting to its Black Friday pricing. This base model includes 128GB of storage and comes in silver, blue, and pink. The iPad typically sells for $349, resulting in a significant discount. While it may not suit power users, it performs well for casual browsing, streaming, and day-to-day activities.

#### Apple Watch Ultra 2 Price Cuts

The **Apple Watch Ultra 2** is experiencing a price reduction of **$250** across different configurations, with the black model featuring a Black Titanium Milanese Loop now accessible for **$649**. This model generally sells for $899, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a premium smartwatch at a lower cost.

#### MacBook Pro Discounts

For those looking to acquire a new laptop, B&H is providing a **24GB M5 MacBook Pro** at a **$250 discount**, lowering the price to **$1,549**. This configuration includes a 512GB SSD and is a fantastic deal compared to Amazon’s prices for equivalent models. The entry-level 16GB/1TB version is also up for grabs on Amazon for **$1,349**, but this B&H offer features a more robust setup at a competitive price.

#### M4 MacBook Air Models Discounted

Amazon has reinstated a **$250 discount** on all **M4 MacBook Air** models, encompassing both 13-inch and 15-inch versions. This promotion mirrors the Black Friday pricing and is available in multiple colors. As inventory levels vary, this is a timely chance for anyone looking to buy a new MacBook Air.

### Conclusion

With these ongoing promotions, now is an ideal moment to contemplate upgrading your Apple devices or acquiring gifts for friends and family. From the AirPods Pro 3 to the latest iPad and MacBook models, these reductions offer significant savings on top-tier technology. Be sure to respond swiftly, as these deals might not be available for long.

While Apple is actively opposing the imposition of legal responsibility for age verification in relation to app downloads, many of its users would gain from the company adopting this responsibility. Given Apple’s history of finding privacy-conscious methods for handling personal data, there is a compelling argument for the company to enhance its efforts beyond the current proposals.

### The Age Verification Narrative Thus Far

Certain US states and countries enforce minimum age requirements for specific categories of apps. A notable instance is Australia, which prohibits anyone under 16 from using social media applications. Likewise, there are increasing demands for age verification across various US states. Presently, individual developers, rather than Apple and Google, bear the responsibility for confirming the ages of users downloading their apps. However, federal lawmakers are contemplating a shift with the introduction of a new proposed legislation, the App Store Accountability Act. This law would permit users to verify their age once with either Apple or Google, allowing these companies to age-gate apps accordingly, instead of necessitating age verification for each app downloaded.

### I Trust Apple More Than Developers

There are persuasive reasons to support this method. Requiring users to submit government-issued photo IDs and video selfies to multiple developers presents a considerable privacy threat. Many would rather trust Apple to conduct identity and age verification once, subsequently blocking access to apps deemed inappropriate for certain ages. This initiative would also improve user experience since individuals would only need to confirm their age one time rather than each time they install a new age-restricted app.

For example, users might opt to validate their identity with Apple instead of Meta to gain access to Instagram, with Meta only receiving an age verification confirmation. This option highlights a preference for Apple, which is viewed as having a greater dedication to privacy. Even if the law necessitates photo ID, it is anticipated that Apple would manage such data securely, ensuring its immediate destruction post-verification.

### It Isn’t Limited to Apps

Age verification extends beyond apps; it is rapidly becoming a prominent concern for websites. The UK has recently enacted a law mandating adult websites to confirm the age of visitors, but the ambiguous wording raises fears it could inadvertently impact educational sites. Furthermore, there are calls for gambling platforms to incorporate photo ID verification to prevent minors from accessing services through parental credit cards. Detractors contend that the core motive behind these regulations may be an inclination towards enhanced government oversight online.

### Apple Could Seamlessly Be the Answer

Should Apple assume the role of age verifier, the process could be made significantly more efficient. When users authenticate their identity with Apple, the company could link that verification to Safari on their devices. Thus, when accessing a website requiring age confirmation, the site would only receive validation from Apple that the user is of legal age, without any personal data being disclosed.

This framework is already operational with Apple Pay, where retailers do not see identity proof but receive assurance that biometric verification has taken place. Similarly, a “verified adult” marker could be incorporated into the information Apple shares with websites, safeguarding privacy while fulfilling regulatory obligations.

### Would You Care to See This?

While some may contest the necessity for age verification for apps or websites, positing that it should fall under parental duties, the fact remains that such measures are being put in place irrespective of individual viewpoints. The crucial question is not if age verification will take place, but who ought to take responsibility for it.

This conversation encourages users to reflect on their preferences surrounding age verification and which entities they trust to manage such sensitive data.

### macOS Tahoe Presents an Exasperating Display Issue for Certain Users

If you’ve observed peculiar screen flickers following the installation of macOS Tahoe, you’re not the only one. An increasing number of users are reporting brief yet bothersome display flickering, especially when utilizing Apple’s Studio Display.

In a recent Mastodon post, Dan Moren recounted his troubles with screen flickering on his Mac mini and MacBook Air while connected to the Studio Display. MacRumors has recently drawn attention to this issue, noting that flickering typically arises when switching between applications featuring bright white backgrounds or when scrolling through websites with light backgrounds. The flickering can occur sporadically and is usually brief, though it can sometimes last several seconds, particularly when moving from dark to light content.

Moren tried to fix the problem by disabling features like True Tone, Night Shift, and automatic brightness. He mentioned that while turning off Night Shift appeared to offer some relief, the flickering continues to be an intermittent and exasperating issue.

Regrettably, the most recent macOS updates (26.1 and 26.2) have not remedied the situation for the majority of users. In fact, some have claimed that macOS 26.2 may have intensified the flickering. Apple has yet to acknowledge the problem, leaving many users in search of solutions.

It is still uncertain whether this issue is limited to the Studio Display or if it impacts additional displays as well. Anecdotal reports indicate that some users, including those with the Pro Display XDR, have not encountered any flickering problems with macOS Tahoe.

If you are facing screen flickering concerns after updating to macOS Tahoe, please share your insights in the comments.

Apple launched iOS 26.2 last week, bringing important security updates along with iOS 18.7.3 for those who have not yet made the jump to the latest version. However, reports suggest that some iPhone users are not receiving the iOS 18 update and are instead being guided toward iOS 26. This scenario raises issues regarding user options and safety.

### iOS 26.2 and iOS 18.7.3 Updates

The iOS 26.2 update features noteworthy security improvements, tackling two WebKit vulnerabilities that might have been leveraged in targeted assaults against certain individuals utilizing earlier iOS versions. The iOS 18.7.3 update also addresses the same WebKit vulnerabilities as well as additional security weaknesses for those who continue to use iOS 18.

The problem lies for users who have chosen to remain on iOS 18, as they are not given the choice to upgrade to iOS 18.7.3. Instead, the only option available is iOS 26.2, effectively forcing users to switch to the newest operating system to gain critical security protections.

### User Concerns

Numerous users might opt to postpone upgrading to iOS 26 for various reasons, such as worries about new features, app compatibility, or an overall desire for stability. This predicament creates a conflict for users who want to keep their existing operating system while still obtaining essential security updates.

### Workaround for Users

For those reluctant to transition to iOS 26, a possible workaround is to enroll in Apple’s public beta program and select the iOS 18 public beta track, which grants access to the 18.7.3 update. Nevertheless, this workaround may appear inconvenient for users merely looking for security remedies.

### Conclusion

It is still unclear whether the unavailability of iOS 18.7.3 is an error or an intentional policy shift by Apple. Historically, Apple has supplied security updates for older iOS versions to maintain user safety. The current scenario might indicate a glitch, as users should ideally have access to all available updates, including the security-centric iOS 18.7.3.

**Pluribus Season One Finale: Early Release Announcement**

Apple TV+ subscribers have something to look forward to as the eagerly awaited finale of the inaugural season of *Pluribus* is set to debut sooner than anticipated. Initially planned for December 26, the ninth episode will now be accessible on December 24, just in time for the holiday festivities.

This is not the first occasion Apple TV+ has delighted its viewers with an earlier release. Last month, episode five was released two days prior to its scheduled airing during the Thanksgiving/Black Friday week. This pattern of early releases appears to be a tactical decision by Apple to boost viewer interaction during holiday times, with Christmas Day and Kwanzaa affecting the choice this time.

Fans can anticipate watching the new episode on the evening of December 23, as Apple generally releases new episodes at 9 p.m. ET the night before the official debut date. This advanced access allows devoted viewers to savor the finale before the holiday celebrations begin.

Episode nine, which has a runtime of 57 minutes, is noteworthy for being the third longest episode in the series. The premiere episode has the second longest duration at 59 minutes, while episode two is the longest, running for 1 hour and 5 minutes. As the season finale, this episode is anticipated to provide a gripping conclusion to the narratives established throughout the season.

*Pluribus* has attracted considerable attention, marking itself as the most-viewed show on Apple TV+ thus far. Apple had earlier disclosed that two seasons of the series were commissioned in 2022, guaranteeing fans that the story will continue beyond this initial season.

For those looking to view *Pluribus*, Apple TV+ can be subscribed to at a rate of $12.99 per month. Additionally, viewers have the option of a bundled subscription that features Apple TV+, iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple Arcade for $19.95 per month via Apple One.

As the finale nears, anticipation mounts among fans eager to find out how the first season wraps up and what awaits in the next installment of *Pluribus*.

Following the reversal of her own class action certification by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in a case alleging that Apple holds a monopoly over the iPhone app market, the situation has been revived today. Here are the specifics.

### A Brief Overview

In 2022, after a complex series of motions, appeals, and the merging of overlapping antitrust claims, the case In re Apple iPhone Antitrust Litigation was assigned to U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers.

At first, she chose not to certify it as a class action. Two years later, she changed her mind, approving it under a more limited scope, covering “only Apple account holders who spent $10 or more on app or in-app content,” as noted by Reuters.

Last October, after Apple contested the plaintiffs’ damages model, Judge Rogers once again reversed her ruling and decertified the class action, determining that the plaintiffs did not provide a model “capable of reliably showing classwide injury and damages in one stroke.”

At that point, the plaintiffs’ legal team indicated they would evaluate their next actions. Shortly thereafter, they submitted a petition requesting permission to appeal, which leads us to the current situation.

### Antitrust Case Revived

As reported by Reuters, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals approved the plaintiffs’ petition for permission to appeal.

In practical terms, this indicates that the appeals court will now assess Judge Rogers’ decision to decertify the class action, which could either restore the lawsuit as a class action, return it to her for additional scrutiny, or affirm her ruling.

According to today’s ruling, the appeal will advance under Rule 23(f), meaning the Ninth Circuit will only consider the class certification ruling (not the underlying antitrust claims against Apple). The plaintiffs now have 14 days to formally advance the appeal.

In a statement to Reuters, Mark Rifkin, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, expressed that they “look forward to briefing and arguing the merits of the appeal in the Ninth Circuit.” Conversely, Apple did not respond to Reuters’ request for a statement.