AllYouCanTech

Apple Unveils New Holiday Advertisement ‘A Critter Carol’ Highlighting iPhone 17 Pro

### Apple Launches Festive Ad: “A Critter Carol”

Apple has introduced its latest holiday commercial entitled “A Critter Carol,” featuring the imaginative use of the iPhone 17 Pro in a playful storyline with forest creatures. The advertisement captures the essence of the holiday season through an engaging tale in which animals unite to put on a musical show.

#### The Narrative

In the ad, two adventurers accidentally drop their blue iPhone 17 Pro in a woodland area. The forest animals find the phone and choose to record themselves performing a version of “Friends” by Flight of the Conchords. This cheerful scene embodies the spirit of camaraderie and imagination among the creatures as they partake in a joyous musical project.

The merriment, however, is cut short when the phone’s owner employs the Ping feature on his Apple Watch to find his misplaced device, introducing a comedic twist to the plot. This smart integration of Apple products highlights the effortless connectivity and usability of their ecosystem.

#### Behind the Production

Alongside the advertisement, Apple published a behind-the-scenes video that unveils the detailed process behind the film’s creation. The video illustrates how the company employed iPhones not just for the narrative but also during the filmmaking itself. It emphasizes the skill involved in crafting the hand-operated puppets that animated the animal characters.

The production crew utilized a distinctive setup with the forest stage raised three feet above the ground. This arrangement enabled animators, clad in blue outfits, to control the puppets from below the stage. The blue attire was subsequently digitally erased in post-production, producing the effect of animated animals engaging with their surroundings.

#### Closing Thoughts

“A Critter Carol” transcends a mere holiday commercial; it is a tribute to imagination, technology, and the joy of unity. By highlighting the features of the iPhone 17 Pro and the artistry of its creation, Apple continues to affirm its dedication to innovation and storytelling. To enjoy the enchantment of this holiday film, you can view it on

iOS 27 Functionalities, iPhone Fold Costs, and Anticipated Releases in 2026

# Rumor Replay: Apple Product Speculations for 2026

This is Rumor Replay, a weekly segment at 9to5Mac providing a brief overview of the latest Apple product speculations, alongside analysis and insights. Today: the ‘Snow Leopard’ update for iOS 27, pricing for the iPhone Fold, anticipated product launches for 2026, and additional Apple rumors.

## iOS 27 Could Be Similar to a Snow Leopard Release

Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reported this week that Apple’s upcoming iOS 27, macOS 27, and other software updates could resemble Snow Leopard-like releases. This suggests that Apple is focusing on performance enhancements and bug fixes more than usual. Gurman highlights:

>In an effort to enhance the software, engineering teams are currently exploring Apple’s operating systems, searching for bloat to remove, bugs to resolve, and any chances to significantly enhance performance and overall quality. Just as Snow Leopard established the foundation for future revamps and new classes of Macs, iOS 27 will set the stage for foldable iPhones and other innovative hardware.

The report indicates that while some substantial AI features are still set to debut in iOS 27, it may otherwise be a less feature-rich update.

### My Observations

I fully support this direction, and I believe the timing is optimal. The new Liquid Glass design introduced in iOS 26 was a considerable advancement in preparing for the future of Apple devices. However, it also brought along various bugs and performance drawbacks that need addressing. While I believe Apple should continue to advance AI features, the iPhone would gain from making “it just works” a more accurate statement than ever.

## iPhone Fold Expected to Cost $2,399

Fubon Research disclosed its pricing prediction for next fall’s foldable iPhone, estimating that the iPhone Fold might retail for around $2,399. This price point is double that of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Their estimate is grounded in supply chain insights and typical profit margins for Apple.

### My Observations

As previously noted earlier this week, this price range leads me to believe Apple intends to name its foldable the ‘iPhone Ultra.’ It seems difficult to justify an ‘iPhone Fold’ warranting a 2x price increase compared to the currently priciest iPhone. However, if Apple adopts the ‘Ultra’ branding, it becomes more justifiable.

## iPhone 17e Camera Enhancement

This week, Jeff Pu issued a research note discussing a notable enhancement coming to the iPhone 17e in early 2026. The new Center Stage front-facing 18MP camera from the iPhone 17 is reportedly set to feature in the budget iPhone 17e as well.

### My Observations

I’m taken aback that the innovative Center Stage front camera, which was a standout feature of the iPhone 17 lineup, is being made available for the lower-cost ‘e’ variant so soon. As Apple extends its iPhone range from four annual models to five or six, creating appropriate feature distinctions will pose a challenge. Nevertheless, the new camera could serve as a compelling attraction.

## Launch Timing for 12.9-inch MacBook and OLED iPad Mini

This week, we received updates regarding the launch timing of two eagerly awaited new products for 2026. Apple’s anticipated 12.9-inch MacBook featuring an A19 chip is allegedly slated for a mid-Q1 2026 release. Concurrently, the upcoming OLED iPad mini refresh won’t debut until at least Q3 2026, coinciding with the October and September release dates of the last two iPad mini models.

### My Observations

I don’t have much to add other than my keen interest in the final specifications of the 12.9-inch MacBook. Apple has typically ceded the budget laptop segment to Chromebook and PC rivals. If the company can release an appealing low-cost new MacBook, it could encourage a surge of iPhone users to purchase their first Mac in the forthcoming years.

What are your thoughts regarding this week’s Apple rumors for 2026 products, iOS 27, and more? Share with us in the comments.

Vital Presents for a Perfect Mac Arrangement: An All-Inclusive Manual

# My Top Gift Selections to Enhance Any Desk Arrangement!

Establishing a productive and visually appealing desk arrangement can greatly boost efficiency and comfort. Below are some of my top gift selections that can upgrade any desk atmosphere, especially for Apple fans.

## 1. Laptop Riser

A laptop riser is vital for any MacBook-focused setup. I strongly suggest the [Twelve South Curve SE](https://amzn.to/48xfEMK). This variant is a budget-friendly option of the original Curve, crafted in three segments for straightforward assembly. It’s not only excellent for your desk but also handy in other spots, like my kitchen table when watching shows. It’s currently priced at just [**$9.99 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/48xfEMK).

## 2. Meeros Lamp

The [Meeros lamp](https://amazon.com/Anker-Compatible-Charging-Certified-Wireless/dp/B0F9L1PPPJ/) is a chic enhancement to any Apple arrangement. Featuring a sleek, glass-like appearance and complete HomeKit compatibility, it offers both functional and decorative illumination. You can get it for [**$33.99 on Amazon**](https://amazon.com/Anker-Compatible-Charging-Certified-Wireless/dp/B0F9L1PPPJ/).

## 3. MagSafe Stand

After testing numerous MagSafe stands, I found [this one](https://amzn.to/3KrzMXo) to be my preferred choice. It has a compact layout, supports Qi2 for 15W charging, and includes a 5W charging pad for AirPods together with a USB-C port. It costs [**$31.91 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/3KrzMXo). For a lower-cost alternative, take a look at the [7.5W version](https://amzn.to/4p73FLV) priced at [**$23.99 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4p73FLV).

## 4. Anker Prime 3-in-1 Stand

For anyone needing to charge various devices, the [Anker Prime 3-in-1 stand](https://amzn.to/4reKfpI) is an outstanding option. It provides full-speed 25W MagSafe charging, an Apple Watch holder, and a charging pad for AirPods. With integrated cooling and a touch-controlled status display, its price is [**$149.49 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4reKfpI).

## 5. BenQ ScreenBar Pro

The [ScreenBar Pro](https://amzn.to/4ocxk4Q) by BenQ has greatly improved my work area. It surpasses conventional lamps and features adjustable brightness and color temperature. Here’s a brief comparison of the alternatives:

– **ScreenBar**: [**$98.10 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4oUgHft)
– Manual and automatic brightness control
– Fixed 18° angle

– **ScreenBar Pro**: [**$118.15 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4ocxk4Q)
– Motion sensor activation/deactivation
– Adjustable angle

– **ScreenBar Halo 2**: [**$152.15 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4ahKYQO)
– Wireless controller featuring LED display
– Back-mounted bias illumination

## 6. Magnetic iPad Stand

The [Magnetic iPad Stand](https://amzn.to/48iJseP) from elago is ideal for Apple enthusiasts. It resembles the design of the iMac stand, providing a floating magnetic structure. It works with any iPad or tablet, available for [**$79.99 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/48iJseP).

## 7. Docking Station

For those with elaborate setups, the [Baseus 12-in-1 dock](https://amzn.to/48nLri4) is revolutionary. It supports dual monitors, provides 100W passthrough USB-C PD, and has several USB ports. You can find it at [**$119.99 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/3XPpvaC).

## Power Strips and Additional Accessories

Proper power management is essential for any desk arrangement. Here are some of my favorite selections:

– [Anker 11-port power block with flat plug: $19.99 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/48z1A5j)
–

EU Updates Position on CSAM Scanning; Apple Continues to Encounter Obstacles

Apple has encountered considerable obstacles regarding its initiatives to scan devices for child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Initially revealed in 2021, the company’s goal was to establish a privacy-conscious scanning system. Nonetheless, the proposal rapidly attracted criticism, underscoring potential shortcomings in its strategy. In reaction, Apple opted to halt its plans for further evaluation.

By 2022, Apple formally discarded its CSAM detection system, despite persistent discussions about the relevance of such actions. The situation progressed in 2023 when Apple recognized the program’s existence, and by 2024, the company altered its previous position, embracing arguments it had once rejected.

At the same time, the European Union was pursuing legislation that could necessitate tech companies, including Apple, to scan for CSAM. This proposed regulation sparked worries about the possible requirement to compromise end-to-end encryption to enable such scanning. However, recent updates suggest that the EU has eased its stance, eliminating obligatory detection directives while still stressing the importance of platforms adopting risk mitigation strategies.

Despite this reduction of the legislation’s severity, concerns persist that ambiguous legal stipulations could result in companies being pressured to scan messages. Individual EU nations maintain the authority to implement stricter laws, indicating that the discussion surrounding CSAM scanning is far from concluded.

Black Friday Deals Offered on Genuine iPhone 17 Cases, Apple Watch Straps, AirTag, and Additional Products

### Black Friday Offers on Apple Accessories: A Detailed Overview

With the holiday season nearing, Apple fans have the chance to benefit from considerable savings on a diverse array of accessories for their devices. This Black Friday, both Apple’s official accessories and those from third-party brands are experiencing significant markdowns, making it a prime moment to upgrade your Apple equipment.

#### iPhone Accessories

Apple’s iPhone 17 series is enjoying marked discounts, presenting a superb opportunity to acquire cases and other add-ons. Although Apple’s cases tend to be on the higher end, the Black Friday offers are allowing for worthwhile savings. Particularly, the Beats Kickstand case for iPhone 17 has received favorable reviews for its versatility and is offered at lowered prices this season.

#### Apple Watch Bands

The Apple Watch Ultra, celebrated for its robust design, pairs beautifully with Apple’s fashionable and resilient bands. With the latest trendy color options now available, it’s an excellent time to broaden your selection. Discounts on these bands simplify the personalization of your Apple Watch.

#### AirTags

For those who might have overlooked a prior offer, Amazon is featuring the individual AirTag at a record low of just below $18. This serves as an ideal stocking stuffer for Apple aficionados, as well as a convenient gift for those needing assistance in keeping track of their possessions.

#### Charging Accessories

Apple’s newest 240W USB-C to USB-C Woven Charge Cable is selling for $18, a notable reduction from its standard price. For fans of older models, Woot is providing the 60W variants at even more affordable prices with a coupon code.

For users wanting to refresh their charging setup, the Beats USB-C cables come in various colors and lengths, offering a chic alternative to traditional Apple cables.

#### Unique Gifts

The Light Blue Apple Crossbody Strap is now available for $48.38, yielding almost a 20% discount. Moreover, the Apple Pencil (USB-C) version is experiencing price cuts, making it a superb gift for iPad users.

#### Notable Brands and Products

Nomad, a renowned name among Apple accessory manufacturers, has reduced prices on many of its sought-after products. Keep an eye out for their Deals of the Day for extra savings.

– **Apple Watch Titanium Band**: 15% discount
– **Passport Wallet**: 20% discount
– **ChargeKey 240W Keychain Accessory**: 25% discount

#### Anker and Twelve South Discounts

Anker’s 25W Qi2.2 3-in-1 charging stand is priced at $149.99, equipped with advanced cooling technology and designated spaces for your Apple devices.

Twelve South is also presenting considerable discounts on their offerings, including the PlugBug, which incorporates Find My technology, ensuring that you never misplace your charger again.

#### Satechi Accessories

Satechi is recognized for its affordable charging accessories and Mac products. This Black Friday, they have a selection of items on promotion, making it an opportune time to shop for essential tech supplies.

### Conclusion

This Black Friday offers a remarkable chance for Apple users to save on accessories that elevate their devices. From fashionable cases and bands to functional charging options, the discounts available this season simplify the process of outfitting your Apple gear or discovering the ideal gift for someone special.

Thanksgiving Offers: Get $150 off the 24GB M4 Mac mini, Apple Pencil for $49, Apple Watch Priced from $120, and Additional Deals

**Thanksgiving Black Friday Offers: What to Anticipate and Noteworthy Points**

As Thanksgiving nears, retailers are preparing for one of the year’s most significant shopping occasions: Black Friday. This year, Amazon has kicked off its Thanksgiving sale, featuring a multitude of offers that will last throughout the holiday weekend. From gadgets to household items, consumers can discover substantial price reductions on a wide array of products.

### Noteworthy Points of the Thanksgiving Sale

1. **Mac Mini Offers**: A highlight is the 24GB Mac mini, currently available at an unprecedented discount of $150 off, reducing the price to $479. This offer is particularly attractive for those in search of a powerful yet reasonably priced desktop solution.

2. **Apple Pencil (USB-C)**: The latest generation Apple Pencil is experiencing a significant price reduction, now listed at $49, translating to nearly 40% off its usual cost. This is a fantastic chance for iPad users wanting to boost their efficiency.

3. **Apple Watch Discounts**: The Apple Watch Series 11 is offered at its lowest prices ever, starting at just $129 for the SE models. This presents a superb opportunity for anyone in the market for a smartwatch to enjoy considerable savings.

4. **M4 MacBook Air**: The 2025 M4 MacBook Air series is seeing reductions of up to $250, beginning at just $749. This positions it as one of the most budget-friendly choices for those in pursuit of a new laptop.

5. **Roborock Robotic Vacuums**: For home cleaning fans, Roborock is providing discounts of up to $1,300 on its premium robotic vacuums, with savings reaching 50%. This is an ideal moment to invest in smart home innovations.

6. **Aqara Smart Home Items**: Aqara’s smart home products are also discounted, with reductions of up to 48%. This encompasses smart locks, camera systems, and various sensors, making it an excellent opportunity to enhance your home automation.

7. **TORRAS iPhone Accessories**: TORRAS is offering discounts of up to 60% on iPhone cases and accessories, along with complimentary gifts with qualified purchases. This is a fantastic chance for iPhone owners to safeguard their devices while economizing.

### Accessory and Charging Offers

Along with the major product discounts, numerous deals are available on accessories and charging options. Key highlights include:

– Anker’s 25W Qi2 MagSafe Car Charger Mount and charging stands at record low prices.
– Elevation Lab’s under-desk headphone hanger for a mere $8.
– Various storage options from Lexar, with discounts hitting up to 48%.

### Summary

The Thanksgiving Black Friday promotions are in full effect, providing consumers with an extensive selection of discounts on favored products. With notable savings on electronics, smart home gadgets, and accessories, shoppers have an exceptional chance to make the most of these offers. Whether you’re in the market for a new Mac mini, an Apple Pencil, or smart home enhancements, now is the moment to shop and capitalize on these savings.

Black Friday Offers: MacBook Air, Mac mini, and Additional Options Starting at $479

# Black Friday Specials on Apple Macs: Essential Information

As Black Friday nears, Apple fans are in for a delight with remarkable reductions on the newest range of Macs. This year, buyers can discover appealing bargains on the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini, catering to a wide range of requirements and preferences. Whether the sleek design of the Mac mini catches your eye, the portability of the MacBook Air is what you need, or the robust performance of the MacBook Pro is your priority, there are numerous options.

## MacBook Air Specials

The highlight this Black Friday is the 13-inch M4 MacBook Air, now offered at its lowest price ever at **$738** (regular price $999). This price signifies a considerable **$262 savings**, making it one of the most enticing deals of the year. All configurations and color choices are available at this rate, ensuring customers can select their desired style without straining their budget.

Moreover, B&H is providing additional savings on select 15-inch MacBook Air configurations, making it an ideal moment to upgrade for those seeking a larger screen.

## MacBook Pro Offers

Apple’s launch of the next-gen M5 chip has introduced thrilling improvements to the MacBook Pro lineup. The 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro is currently priced at an unprecedented low of **$1,399** (down from $1,599), offering a **$200 reduction**. This model is perfect for professionals in need of top performance for demanding tasks.

For those who require enhanced power, the M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro variants are also experiencing notable discounts. These models, despite being labeled with the “M4” designation, rank among Apple’s most potent offerings, presenting competitive pricing across different configurations.

## Mac mini Discounts

The Mac mini remains a favored choice among Apple users, and this Black Friday, it starts at **$479**. This pricing allows customers to obtain a current-generation Mac at a reasonable cost. Significantly, the 24GB M4 configuration is also discounted to **$649**, presenting an impressive deal for those seeking greater performance in a compact package.

While the Mac mini might not enjoy the same popularity as the MacBook Air, it delivers exceptional value, particularly for users who emphasize desktop computing power without the necessity for portability.

## Summary

Black Friday 2025 is set to be an extraordinary opportunity for Apple enthusiasts aiming to acquire new Macs. With substantial discounts on the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini, there are choices for every user. Whether you require a lightweight laptop for travel or a powerful desktop for demanding tasks, this is the ideal moment to capitalize on these offers before they vanish.

Report: iPhone Played a Major Role in Boosting Phone Sales During the Singles’ Day Event in China

A recent analysis from Counterpoint Research reveals that the resurgence of the iPhone in China continues to flourish.

### iPhone 17 Series Rescued the Smartphone Market from a Year-over-Year Drop

Recent findings from China have underscored Apple’s triumphant turnaround, as the tech giant has successfully reversed a sustained sales downturn and is witnessing strong demand for its iPhones. This positive momentum commenced even prior to the launch of the iPhone 17 series, and since these new devices hit the market, Apple has regularly surpassed the overall smartphone market performance.

As reported by Counterpoint Research, the iPhone emerged as the top performer during China’s Singles Day sales festival, which ended on November 11. The iPhone 17 represented 26% of all smartphones sold during this event, an impressive feat when considering that overall smartphone sales only rose by 3% year-over-year. In the absence of the iPhone 17 series, the smartphone market would have encountered a 5% decline rather than this slight increase.

The report further highlighted that Huawei faced the most substantial drop among major brands, with its market share decreasing from 17% to 13%. The company’s premier Mate 80, introduced shortly before the sales event, did not manage to leverage the occasion. In contrast, Xiaomi secured the second-largest sales share at 17%, although its sales also declined in comparison to the previous year due to the earlier rollout of its Xiaomi 17 series.

These insights correspond with Apple’s forecasts outlined in its most recent quarterly report, where the company signaled that it was entering what could be its most prosperous holiday quarter to date. With a significant portion of the holiday season still to come, Apple seems poised to realize this optimistic outlook.

Causes of the Apple Store Downtime in the United States

Users in the U.S. attempting to access Apple’s online store are currently seeing a “be right back” message, signifying a temporary outage. This scenario reflects a similar incident earlier today in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and much of Europe. The outage is part of Apple’s preparations for its Black Friday sales event, which continues until December 1.

Throughout this event, Apple is providing gift cards valued up to $250 with the purchase of qualifying products, such as Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. For instance, purchasing an iPad Air, iPad (A16), or iPad mini makes customers eligible for a gift card of up to $100, whereas an eligible Apple Watch purchase will earn a $50 gift card.

Although the gift card offer is attractive, it’s crucial to remember that it necessitates an additional purchase to redeem its value, which might not represent the most advantageous deal available. For instance, Apple’s official Amazon store currently has discounts on various items, such as AirPods Pro 3 for $30 off, AirPods 4 for $60 off, and AirPods Max for $150 off. Moreover, several MacBooks and iPads are priced such that they could exceed the value of Apple’s gift cards.

For shoppers seeking the best bargains this season, it is recommended to explore platforms like 9to5Toys for thorough listings and comparisons of available offers.

Snowy Provides Complimentary Christmas Lights, Snow Effects, and Water-Themed Wallpaper for Mac Users

### Infuse Your Mac with Holiday Spirit Using Snowy

As the festive season draws near, numerous users seek ways to infuse their devices with seasonal cheer. For Mac enthusiasts, **Snowy** is a delightful and complimentary app found on the Mac App Store that brings a whimsical flair to your desktop. This application showcases Christmas lights, an enchanting snow effect, and a one-of-a-kind Aqua-inspired wallpaper, making it a perfect companion for the holidays.

#### Snowy’s Features

**Accessibility from the Menu Bar**
Snowy runs directly from your Mac’s Menu Bar, ensuring convenient access and management. Users can easily activate or deactivate the snow and holiday lights with a single click. You also have the choice to keep the snow consistently visible or conceal it behind open app windows. For those who desire a personalized touch, the app allows adjustment of the snowfall intensity, providing a spectrum from a gentle flurry to a robust snowstorm.

**Customization of Holiday Lights**
The holiday lights feature within the app is notably captivating, presenting two primary settings: pattern and color. Users can select from various patterns, such as twinkle, wave, steady, and classic. The classic mode, reminiscent of vintage 16-bit graphics, remains a favorite among many users. Regarding color, Snowy offers multiple selections: multicolor, warm white, candy cane, blue, and rainbow, enabling you to craft a festive ambiance that reflects your taste.

#### Aqua Winterscape Wallpaper

Beyond its interactive functionalities, Snowy offers a free desktop wallpaper named **Aqua Winterscape**. This wallpaper displays a beautifully adorned Christmas tree decorated with Aqua-design Mac window controls as ornaments. Should you wish to revert to your former wallpaper, Snowy simplifies the process with just a click from the Menu Bar.

#### How to Obtain Snowy

Snowy is a newly launched application available for complimentary download from the [Mac App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/snowy-by-pingie/id6755752326?mt=12) or directly from the developer’s website at