Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### InnerPulse: An All-Inclusive Mood Monitoring Application

Mood monitoring applications are essential in fostering mindfulness and helping individuals manage their mental well-being. Among the numerous choices available, InnerPulse distinguishes itself by emphasizing user confidentiality while providing an extensive array of features without the inconvenience of subscriptions or advertisements.

#### Key Features

InnerPulse adopts the Liquid Glass design language of iOS 26, delivering a user interface that feels native. Users can monitor their mood on a scale from 0 to 10 and select from more than 85 mood factors to pinpoint what affects their emotional condition. These factors cover a wide range of life aspects, including sleep, nutrition, work, exercise, social interactions, digital engagement, self-care, health, environment, and finances. Furthermore, users can add personal notes for additional context.

The app extends beyond everyday mood tracking by offering thorough questionnaires for users facing anxiety or depression. It features recognized screening tools such as the PHQ-9, GAD-7, K10, and PHQ-4 assessments. While these evaluations are not conclusive diagnoses, they are useful tools for self-assessment.

With the information gathered, users can examine their mood patterns over time, gaining valuable insights into their emotional trends. This data can also be shared with healthcare providers for additional assistance.

#### Obtain the App

InnerPulse can be purchased for a one-time fee of $4.99 on the App Store. There are no advertisements or subscription charges, making it a viable choice for those aiming to improve their mental health. The app necessitates an iPhone or iPad operating on iOS 18.6 or newer.

In conclusion, InnerPulse offers a comprehensive and user-friendly platform for mood monitoring, making it a superb option for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of their emotional well-being.

# Apple Vision Pro: A New Horizon or an Overlooked Chance?

Apple Vision Pro has become one of the most captivating yet confusing product introductions in Apple’s timeline. Marketed as the inception of a fresh product category and the next evolution of computing, the Vision Pro headset has generated both enthusiasm and doubt among consumers and industry professionals alike.

## Jack of All Trades, Master of None

The Vision Pro features a variety of impressive functionalities, but many seem underdeveloped. For example, the Mac Virtual Display function stands out, yet the headset’s weight can make extended use unpleasant. Although watching films and programs with the headset can be a delightful experience, the absence of native applications from several streaming services restricts its practicality. Moreover, while the multitasking capabilities show promise, typing remains awkward, and dictation features trail behind expectations.

Having acquired a pre-owned Vision Pro six months ago, the experience has not been particularly engaging. Even at a reasonable price, the discomfort and various trade-offs associated with the device have not encouraged a longing for long-term use. Many challenges arise from hardware restrictions, but a considerable part pertains to the necessity for more polished software and clearer application scenarios. With effective leadership and a dedication to enhancement, there is a chance for the Vision Pro to progress.

## The Elephant(s) in the Room

A significant element influencing the Vision Pro’s current situation is a perceived lack of conviction from Apple’s leadership. Tim Cook has long been an advocate for augmented reality (AR), yet the Vision Pro seems to be just a stepping stone towards a grander vision. Reports indicate that Cook has often been hesitant to make firm product decisions, frequently deferring to his executives. This reluctance may clarify why the Vision Pro appears underdeveloped and lacks fervor.

John Ternus, who reportedly has concerns about the Vision Pro in its present state, is now stepping into a leadership position with the potential to redirect the product’s path. His initial doubts may not necessarily signal a pessimistic view; instead, they could represent a wish to refine the platform for improved results. Ternus has communicated optimism about the Vision Pro’s future, indicating that the product is still in its nascent phase and possesses significant room for advancement.

## Wrap Up

While major alterations to the Vision Pro might not happen right away, the shift to Ternus as CEO could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the product. With visionOS 27 already under construction and reports of a lighter, more budget-friendly headset being postponed, any possible revival for the Vision Pro may not come to fruition until at least 2028.

The idea of shared experiences via the Vision Pro carries immense potential, especially for engaging with friends and family over distances. Nonetheless, the success of this vision depends on strong leadership and a resolve to make the headset appealing and accessible to a wider audience. If Apple can tap into the potential of the Vision Pro, it may still transform into a groundbreaking product in the domain of augmented reality and computing.

### The Upcoming iPad: What’s in a Title?

Apple’s basic iPad has undergone considerable improvements through the years, with the latest version featuring the A16 chipset launched over a year ago. As excitement grows for the upcoming model, expected to be equipped with the A18 chip, a pivotal question emerges: what title will Apple assign to it?

#### A Brief Overview of iPad Naming Patterns

Traditionally, Apple has implemented a generation numbering system for its standard model iPads, finishing with the 10th generation iPad featuring the A14 chip. Nonetheless, the following model strayed from this routine, simply naming it the iPad (A16). This change aimed to enhance consumer understanding of performance while also spotlighting a persistent naming conundrum for the standard iPad.

Conversely, Apple has adopted a more decisive method with its other product families, such as the MacBook Neo. There was speculation regarding the potential name of this model, with many anticipating a return to the more straightforward ‘MacBook’ title. However, Apple selected a name that reflected identity and creativity, with “Neo” representing freshness and reinvention.

#### Perspectives from Apple Leaders

In a recent conversation with Tom’s Guide, Apple leaders John Ternus and Greg Joswiak elaborated on the reasoning behind the naming of the MacBook Neo. Joswiak highlighted the significance of providing the product with a unique identity instead of leaving it unnamed, which could foster confusion about its place in the range. The choice of “Neo” signifies a dedication to clarity and innovation, in line with Apple’s branding goals.

#### Predictions for the Next iPad

Considering Apple’s recent naming decisions, it’s probable that the company will persist in moving away from vague naming conventions for its basic products. The launch of the MacBook Neo and the possibility of an iPhone 16e indicate a trend toward clearer, more explicative names. This opens the door for the next iPad to be titled the iPad Neo, heralding a new chapter for the standard model.

However, there is an important consideration regarding this theory. The forthcoming iPad will not showcase a dramatically new design; it will mainly carry forward the look introduced in 2022. This continuity might lead Apple to adhere to the existing naming convention for now, particularly if the next model does not signify a meaningful upgrade.

#### Closing Thoughts

As Apple gears up to unveil its next entry-level iPad, the decision on its name will be closely monitored by consumers and industry experts alike. Whether it embraces the “Neo” title or retains its current naming structure, the decision will mirror Apple’s ongoing endeavors to clarify its product range and improve consumer comprehension. The transformation of the iPad title may very well influence future developments within the Apple ecosystem.

**The Significance of Browser Management in Apple IT Settings**

In the dynamic realm of IT oversight, the role of web browsers as potential security threats is essential. A recent analysis by Omdia, commissioned by Parallels, emphasizes a troubling trend: 68% of organizations are experiencing a rise in browser-related security breaches. This concern is particularly pertinent for companies that are heavily dependent on browser-based SaaS solutions.

**The Safari Oversight**

A remarkable discovery from the Omdia analysis shows that while Google Chrome is officially endorsed by 88% of organizations and Microsoft Edge by 84%, Safari falls considerably short at just 46%. Worryingly, 27% of organizations mention that Safari is being used but lacks formal support. Considering that numerous Mac users favor Safari for its speed and seamless integration with macOS, this results in a significant oversight for IT departments. If Safari is not proactively managed utilizing device management solutions, organizations face the risk of exposing themselves to security threats.

**The Browser as an Emerging Endpoint**

The consequences of unregulated browsers are significant. The Omdia analysis reveals that 55% of the organizations surveyed have been victims of a browser-related attack in the previous year, with 22% suffering multiple successful breaches. Phishing attacks are the most frequent, impacting 40% of organizations, followed by data loss or leakage at 38% and harmful browser extensions at 34%.

To tackle these issues, solutions like Island, a Chromium-based browser tailored for enterprise security, are becoming popular. Island provides a familiar user interface while integrating smoothly with current IT and security frameworks, thereby enhancing the overall security stance.

**Summary**

IT teams cannot disregard the necessity of web browser management within their organizations. It is essential to actively oversee the browser experience from both user and security angles. Whether through careful management of Safari, implementing dedicated enterprise browsers, or making use of secure cross-platform extensions, IT departments should approach browser security with the same rigor as they do macOS itself. By doing so, organizations can reduce risks and safeguard their digital landscapes more efficiently.

**MLB Friday Doubleheader on Apple TV: How to Subscribe and Watch**

Major League Baseball (MLB) returns to Apple TV this season, and fans can anticipate an exhilarating Friday night doubleheader. On April 24, Apple TV will broadcast two captivating matchups:

– **7:15 p.m. ET** – Philadelphia Phillies at Atlanta Braves
– **10:15 p.m. ET** – Chicago Cubs at Los Angeles Dodgers

To view these games, you can sign up for Apple TV [here](https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.4000?itscg=30200&itsct=tv%5C_box%5C_link&at=1000l3cvR). The subscription fee is **$12.99/month** and provides access to all MLB Friday Night Baseball games, along with other sports such as Formula 1 and Major League Soccer. Subscribers also benefit from a range of popular TV shows and films, including *F1: The Movie* and *Ted Lasso*.

The Apple TV app is compatible with a multitude of platforms, allowing you to enjoy the content without needing an Apple device. You can watch on:

– Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL, etc.)
– Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices
– Chromecast with Google TV
– PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles
– Any iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV 4K device, Vision Pro
– By accessing tv.apple.com

Furthermore, Apple TV subscribers can acquire Peacock for just **$2/month**, which grants access to numerous additional MLB games and various other sports.

For a detailed schedule of forthcoming MLB games on Apple TV, explore the overview [here](https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/11/major-league-baseball-on-apple-tv-returns-soon-heres-whats-coming/).

Apple TV is priced at **$12.99 per month**, or you may choose a reduced rate via the [Apple One bundle](http://one.apple.com/?at=1000l3cvR&itscg=30200).

Apple TV currently boasts an impressive array of top-tier programs, but May will introduce a number of brand new series, in addition to the first film helmed by John Travolta, among other offerings. Here’s a rundown of all that’s new on Apple TV this May.

## Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix

– **When:** *May 3*
– **What:** *Grand Prix Race*
– **Genre:** *Sports*

The F1 2026 season is in full swing, but May 3 holds particular significance for Apple viewers as it marks the first US-based race: the Miami Grand Prix. Apple TV subscribers in the US have complete access to all F1 races along with bonus coverage—all at no extra cost.

## Unconditional

– **When:** *May 8*
– **What:** *TV Show*
– **Genre:** *Thriller*

“Unconditional” tracks a mother-daughter holiday that spirals into a nightmare when 25-year-old Gali (Talia Lynne Ronn) is detained for drug trafficking in Moscow. Her mother, Orna (Liraz Chamami), refuses to believe the charges — but her battle for Gali’s freedom drags her into a treacherous web of crime and deceit.

## Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed

– **When:** *May 20*
– **What:** *TV Show*
– **Genre:** *Thriller-Comedy*

“Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed” depicts newly divorced mom Paula (Maslany) as she tumbles down a perilous path of blackmail, homicide, and youth soccer. Convinced she witnessed a crime — while concurrently dealing with a custody battle and an identity crisis — Paula embarks on her own investigation, one that could expose a larger conspiracy while potentially offering her family and sense of self a chance to be restored.

## Propeller One-Way Night Coach

– **When:** *May 29*
– **What:** *Movie*
– **Genre:** *Adventure*

“Propeller One-Way Night Coach” marks John Travolta’s directorial debut. Set in the glorious era of aviation, a young aviation enthusiast, Jeff (portrayed by newcomer Clark Shotwell), and his mother (Kelly Eviston-Quinnett) embark on a one-way journey across the country to Hollywood, turning a routine flight into an extraordinary adventure. The experience unfolds with moments both magical and unforeseen, shaping the boy’s future.

## Star City

– **When:** *May 29*
– **What:** *TV Show*
– **Genre:** *Sci-Fi*

Inspired by the space-race narrative For All Mankind, “Star City” serves as a gripping paranoid thriller that revisits a pivotal moment in the alternate history retelling of the space race — when the Soviet Union first sent a man to the moon. This time, the story is explored from behind the Iron Curtain, revealing the experiences of cosmonauts, engineers, and intelligence agents intertwined in the Soviet space program.

## New episodes: Your Friends & Neighbors, Criminal Record, and more

May will also see the release of new episodes for various currently airing Apple TV shows.

Apple TV is offered at $12.99 per month, or you can acquire it at a reduced rate through the Apple One bundle.

The United States District Court for the Northern District of California has approved iyO’s request for a preliminary injunction, stopping OpenAI and Jony Ive’s new hardware initiative from utilizing the io branding. Here are the specifics.

### A Bit of Background

Last year, Sam Altman and Jony Ive revealed that their companies would collaborate under a new enterprise named io to create AI-driven products. Shortly thereafter, a company known as iyO initiated a lawsuit, claiming trademark violation. iyO obtained a temporary restraining order, leading OpenAI to remove references to the newly established venture from online sources.

In the subsequent weeks, iyO and OpenAI submitted several documents indicating that the companies had communicated before the io announcement, including product demonstrations. OpenAI contended that some of this outreach included unsolicited information and investment proposals from iyO, while iyO recently revised its lawsuit to claim trade secret theft.

Meanwhile, iyO also presented the findings of a consumer survey to the court, arguing that the brands were sufficiently similar to likely create confusion among consumers if OpenAI were to launch products too similar to its own, such as connected headphones.

OpenAI, for its part, asserted that its initial product would not be an AI-enabled wearable and mentioned earlier this year that it no longer intended to use the io branding at all, requesting the court to dismiss the lawsuit.

### Court Sides with iyO

In a ruling made yesterday, U.S. District Judge Trina Thompson granted iyO’s request for a preliminary injunction, effectively prohibiting OpenAI from utilizing the io branding. Judge Thompson was not persuaded by OpenAI’s choice to voluntarily discontinue the use of the io branding and raised concerns about whether the company might revert to using the mark in the future.

She noted that if OpenAI indeed does not intend to use the mark, an injunction should not pose an issue, but if it does, it offers protection to iyO. She also concluded that iyO “is likely to succeed on the merits of its Trademark Claim” and acknowledged that iyO could continue to experience “irreparable harm (…), including an inability to attract new investors, the depletion of its funding, and the appropriation of its brand equity.”

Following the injunction, the case is progressing further into discovery. In another ruling also issued yesterday, Judge Peter H. Kang instructed attorneys for both parties to meet and discuss ongoing discovery disagreements and report back to the court “no later than May 29, 2026.”

# Aqara Doorbell Camera G400: An In-Depth Look

Upon the unveiling of the Doorbell Camera G400 featuring Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality, Aqara captured considerable interest. Although PoE may not entice all users, those who prioritize it frequently disregard alternatives that do not offer this capability. Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 acts as an auxiliary option, yet nothing eclipses the dependability of a wired connection. The Aqara Doorbell Camera G400 ensures this dependability, coupled with on-site AI detection and an elongated aspect ratio intended for package visibility. This article delves into the features and advantages of the Aqara Doorbell Camera G400 tailored for Apple Home users.

## HomeKit Secure Video and Technical Considerations

A noteworthy attribute of the G400 is its compatibility with HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV). This feature enables encrypted recording, facial recognition linked to your Apple Photos library, and adjustable activity zones within the Home app. However, users should be cognizant of specific hardware constraints. Despite the G400 being equipped with a 2K camera, Apple limits HKSV functionality to 1080p resolution. If both the Aqara app and Apple Home are utilized simultaneously, this lower resolution is applied across both services.

To fully exploit the G400’s capabilities in Apple Home, an iCloud+ subscription and a HomeKit hub (like a HomePod mini or Apple TV) are required. While the resolution restriction can be annoying, the smooth integration into the Apple ecosystem offers a considerable benefit. Users receive comprehensive notifications on their iPhone and Apple Watch and can access live streams on their Apple TV whenever the doorbell is pressed.

For those who consider the HKSV restrictions cumbersome, Aqara has integrated support for RTSP and ONVIF, permitting users to stream high-definition video to a Synology NAS while still enjoying the ease of the Home app for regular tasks.

## Comprehensive Video and Local AI

In addition to its Apple Home integration, the G400’s camera hardware is tailored for monitoring front entrances. The Aqara Doorbell Camera G400 boasts a 165-degree ultra-wide viewing angle with a 3:4 aspect ratio, which proves more effective for observing packages left right at the door compared to the conventional 16:9 widescreen format. Furthermore, the camera incorporates 940nm infrared LEDs to deliver efficient night vision.

The G400 conducts person identification and zone intrusion detection locally, negating the requirement for a cloud connection. Users have the option for continuous 24/7 recording straight to a microSD card (up to 512GB) and can automatically back up local footage to a Synology or any SMB-compatible NAS.

## Key Specifications of the Aqara Doorbell Camera G400

Here’s a summary of the principal hardware specifications:

– **Resolution and Field of View:** 2K HD resolution with a 165-degree ultra-wide viewing angle; 3:4 aspect ratio provides a vertical, head-to-toe perspective perfect for detecting packages.
– **Power and Connectivity:** Compatible with PoE, existing 8-24V AC/DC doorbell wiring, and dual-band Wi-Fi 6.
– **Night Vision:** Employs 940nm infrared LEDs for clear video capture in low-light settings.
– **Weather Resistance:** IP65 rated to ensure resilience against wind, rain, and dust.
– **Storage Solutions:** Enabled for local microSD cards up to 512GB for continuous recording, with automatic backups to a NAS.

## Final Thoughts on the Aqara Doorbell Camera G400

Locating a HomeKit Secure Video doorbell that fulfills all criteria can be difficult, but the Aqara Doorbell Camera G400 comes impressively close at a competitive price point. By integrating Power over Ethernet, Aqara tackles one of the key hurdles of smart doorbells: sustaining a robust Wi-Fi signal outdoors. This is especially advantageous for residences with thick walls, like brick structures.

While there is optimism for Apple to improve the features of HomeKit Secure Video in the future, users must currently navigate certain trade-offs. As manufacturers keep innovating, the appeal of local NAS solutions may expand, particularly as compatibility with existing features becomes a priority.

The Aqara Doorbell Camera G400 is available for purchase on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4ts6ngu) or can be further explored on the [Aqara website](https://www.aqara.com/en/product/doorbell-camera-g400-wired/).

### XChat has officially debuted on iPhone and iPad

As of Friday, April 24th, the XChat application has officially debuted, offering a standalone messaging solution from X. This new app is now accessible for download on the App Store for both iPhone and iPad users.

XChat sets itself apart from the official X app by adopting the iOS 26 design, featuring the updated iOS 26 keyboard, while the X app continues to use the older iOS 18 keyboard. Users who have depended on X or Twitter for direct messaging will discover XChat to be a considerable enhancement, elevating their communication experience.

The app includes a range of fun icons, facilitating personalization and a more captivating user interface. Users can adjust settings such as light/dark mode, message permissions, and tailor the left swipe interaction to either like a message or retrieve more information.

XChat is crafted for privacy and security, providing end-to-end encryption for all messages, and it is free from ads or tracking. The app enables users to engage in private conversations with anyone on X in a concentrated environment.

Key features of XChat encompass the ability to block screenshots, send disappearing messages, conduct group chats, and initiate video calls. Furthermore, the app supports joinable links for group chats, allowing users to generate public links that can be shared directly on their timelines, accommodating up to 350 members per chat.

XChat has been under testing since last year, and it is now ready for download from the App Store. This launch signifies the start of what X aspires to create for messaging, prioritizing speed and privacy in communication.

Apple’s Digital ID: A New Chapter in Age Verification

Last autumn, Apple introduced a new Digital ID feature within the Wallet app, enabling users to leverage it as a means of age verification on iPhones. This advancement marks a notable progression in digital identification, particularly as it achieves broader acceptance in diverse contexts.

Apple’s Digital ID was first implemented with TSA checkpoint approval, allowing users to display their IDs at more than 250 US airports for domestic flights. This functionality permits iPhone users to generate a Digital ID using data from their U.S. passports, offering a secure and private method to present identification.

In its efforts to broaden its use, Apple has now facilitated the application of Digital ID for age verification in Apple Accounts and services. This is especially pertinent given the ongoing debates regarding age verification legislation in the US and internationally. Users might be asked to verify their age when setting up new Apple Accounts, updating software, modifying safety settings, or buying apps with age limitations.

Digital ID acts as an accepted means for age verification, enabling users to validate their adult status without disclosing more sensitive forms of identification. This feature is anticipated to gain momentum as a larger number of users become informed of its existence and as age verification regulations progress.

In conclusion, Apple’s Digital ID is leading the way towards a more secure and user-friendly approach to age verification, aligning with the increasing demand for digital solutions in identity management.