Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**Pluribus Season 2 Update: Filming Set to Commence This Fall**

Apple TV’s celebrated sci-fi series, *Pluribus*, is poised to make a comeback with its second season, and enthusiasts are keen for news. Recently, actress Karolina Wydra, who plays Zosia, shared important information about the timeline for the show’s production.

### Filming Schedule

In a conversation with *Screen Rant*, Wydra disclosed that *Pluribus* Season 2 is slated to begin filming “sometime in the fall.” Although a specific date hasn’t been established, the production team is targeting a kickoff in fall 2026. This update signifies a change from earlier announcements, which had been general and asked for the audience’s patience.

### Expected Premiere Date

If filming starts as intended in the coming months, there is a chance that *Pluribus* Season 2 might debut in fall 2027, two years following the initial season’s release. Nevertheless, a more cautious estimate indicates that viewers may have to wait until 2028 for the new season to air. The buzz surrounding *Pluribus*’s return is intense, particularly with the simultaneous production of other Apple TV programs, including *Severance* Season 3, which is also anticipated to begin filming shortly.

### Conclusion

As the enthusiasm mounts for *Pluribus* Season 2, fans can anticipate more definite updates as filming advances. The union of a devoted cast and a creative team focused on providing high-quality content ensures an exciting continuation of the series. For those looking to catch up on the first season or discover more Apple TV offerings, subscriptions are available for $12.99 monthly, with savings offered through the Apple One bundle.

### 2026 M5 Pro MacBook Pro and MacBook Air Offers: Essential Information

In the most recent wave of promotions, the 2026 M5 Pro MacBook Pro is priced at an impressive $150 off, establishing it as the most budget-friendly choice currently available. This offer coincides with ongoing reductions across the M5 MacBook Air series, which also features $150 cutbacks on various models.

#### M5 Pro MacBook Pro Offers

The M5 Pro MacBook Pro, equipped with a 15-Core CPU and 16-Core GPU, comes in two variations:
– **24GB RAM with 1TB SSD** in Silver for **$2,048**
– **Space Black version** for **$2,049**

Both options include free shipping. The initial retail price for this model is $2,199, making this discount the lowest recorded thus far. While different configurations of the 2026 MacBook Pro have faced price hikes, this specific variant continues to be an exceptional bargain.

#### M5 MacBook Air Reductions

Alongside the discounts on the MacBook Pro, Amazon provides $150 off all 2026 M5 MacBook Air models, with prices beginning at **$949**. Below is a summary of the configurations available:
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB**: $949 (Regular $1,099)
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: $1,149 (Regular $1,299)
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 24GB/1TB**: $1,349 (Regular $1,499)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB**: $1,149 (Regular $1,299)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: $1,349 (Regular $1,499)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 24GB/1TB**: $1,549 (Regular $1,699)

These prices represent the best deals currently available, with the possibility of additional discounts during major sales events occurring later this year.

#### Current-Generation Apple Watch Offers

This week, significant discounts are also being offered on current-generation Apple Watch models. Prices start at **$219** for the Apple Watch SE 3, which is $100 off its regular price. The Series 11 models are likewise available with savings of up to $100, with prices beginning at **$299**.

#### Accessories and Additional Offers

In addition to the laptop and watch offers, the Apple 2026 Studio Display XDR is experiencing price cuts as well. The model featuring the Tilt/Height Stand is presently priced at **$3,199**, reduced from its original $3,299. The VESA mount variant has also dropped to **$2,899**, which is $150 off its launch price.

### Final Thoughts

With ongoing discounts on the 2026 M5 Pro MacBook Pro, M5 MacBook Air, and Apple Watch models, it is a prime opportunity for consumers to think about upgrading their technology. These offers are likely to be available throughout the weekend, but due to fluctuating prices, it’s wise to move quickly if you’re interested in these deals.

### iOS 26.4 App Store Modifications: Understanding the Adjustments

iOS 26.4 brought about several changes to the App Store, particularly influencing how users retrieve app updates. Although these modifications might not be of great concern to casual users, individuals who often check for updates may find the new navigation a bit cumbersome. This article delves into the modifications and provides a shortcut to enhance the experience.

#### Modifications in Retrieving App Updates

In earlier iterations of iOS 26, users could effortlessly check for app updates by launching the App Store and tapping their profile picture situated in the top-right corner. However, with the introduction of iOS 26.4, this procedure now entails an extra step. Users still navigate to the same profile picture but must now choose the new ‘Updates’ menu option to view the available updates list.

Though an additional tap might appear trivial, it can become bothersome for individuals who frequently monitor updates. Fortunately, a straightforward workaround enables users to avoid this extra step.

#### Shortcut to Retrieve Updates

iOS has consistently offered a shortcut that remains applicable in iOS 26.4. Users can swiftly reach the Updates screen by long-pressing the App Store icon on their iPhone or iPad. This gesture brings up a popup menu that features an ‘Updates’ option. By selecting this option, users are directly taken to the Updates screen, thus removing the need for the additional navigation step.

This shortcut is not only quick but also increases convenience for users who focus on staying informed about their apps. Incorporating this habit can considerably enhance the user experience when handling app updates.

#### Conclusion

While iOS 26.4 has rendered the process of accessing app updates somewhat more laborious, the long-press shortcut offers a rapid and effective solution. Users who regularly check for updates should contemplate integrating this technique into their routine to optimize their App Store experience. Have you tried this shortcut before? Share your insights in the comments.

Google’s Gemini AI application has achieved considerable acclaim, consistently ranking within the top three iPhone applications in the App Store. As of now, Gemini has launched as a dedicated Mac application, making macOS the inaugural platform to feature a desktop version of Gemini AI.

### Gemini Mac App Features Instant Access

In the past, users were limited to accessing Gemini through the Chrome browser or online. The newly released Mac app offers a significantly enhanced experience, beginning with immediate access via the keyboard shortcut Option + Space. Additional features include screen sharing for better context, customizable menu bar and Dock integration, and more.

Notable features encompass:

– **Customizable Shortcuts:** Users can utilize Option + Space for the mini chat or Option + Shift + Space for the full chat experience, with the option to modify these shortcuts in Settings.
– **Menu Bar Access:** The Gemini icon in the menu bar enables rapid access to the app.
– **Dock Launching:** Users can open the app straight from the Dock.

### A Native Swift Application

Gemini for Mac is a “100% native Swift” application, crafted specifically for Apple’s ecosystem. This design allows for various customization options, such as the ability to initiate new chats in either mini chat or the main window, reset mini chat based on time duration, and select from multiple voices for voice mode.

Google emphasizes various key functions of Gemini for Mac:

– **Quick Answers:** Users can pose questions and obtain information instantly without needing to access a browser.
– **Content Drafting:** The app can produce ideas, compose emails, draft documents, or create social media posts.
– **Information Summarization:** Gemini can swiftly extract the main points from extensive articles or documents.
– **Brainstorming Ideas:** Users can leverage Gemini as a creative collaborator to investigate new ideas.
– **Coding Assistance:** The app can aid in writing code, debugging, or grasping complex programming concepts.
– **Image Analysis:** Users can upload images and inquire about them with Gemini.

The Gemini Mac app is available free of charge and requires macOS 15 Sequoia or later.

### Future Integration with Siri and Apple Intelligence

In addition to the Mac app, Google’s Gemini is poised to enhance Siri and Apple Intelligence features, starting with iOS 27 and macOS 27 later this year. This initiative was announced following Apple’s initial presentation of Apple Intelligence in iOS 18 at WWDC 2024.

Apple and Google have established a multi-year partnership to create the next generation of Apple Foundation Models based on Google’s Gemini technology. This collaboration aims to offer a more personalized Siri experience while upholding Apple’s privacy standards.

In conclusion, the launch of the Gemini Mac app not only improves user experience on macOS but also lays the groundwork for future enhancements in Apple’s AI functionalities, promising a more cohesive and intelligent user experience across devices.

The Wayback Machine from the Internet Archive serves as an essential tool for maintaining the web’s history, enabling users to view earlier iterations of websites and pages. This resource is vital for protecting information that could otherwise vanish when sites go offline, assisting in monitoring alterations made to web content over the years.

Lately, the Internet Archive has encountered significant obstacles as many media organizations have started to restrict access to its web crawler, which is fundamental for updating the Wayback Machine. Reports indicate that 23 prominent news websites, including USA Today, have enacted prohibitions against the web crawler, even though these same entities frequently depend on the Wayback Machine for their own journalism.

For example, USA Today released an important article outlining how U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) postponed disseminating crucial details regarding its detention practices. The creators of this article relied on the Wayback Machine to compile and scrutinize ICE’s detention figures and monitor changes during the Trump era. Ironically, despite deriving benefits from the archive’s offerings, USA Today has opted to prevent the Wayback Machine from storing its materials. Mark Graham, the Wayback Machine’s director, pointed out this inconsistency, noting that the outlet is availing itself of the tool for research while simultaneously limiting its access.

The restriction of the Internet Archive’s web crawler carries wider ramifications for journalism. A group of journalists has voiced alarm over this trend, amassing over 100 endorsements in favor of the Wayback Machine. Noteworthy supporters include influential personalities such as Rachel Maddow and independent journalists like Kat Tenbarge and Taylor Lorenz. They contend that the Wayback Machine is crucial for maintaining the historical narrative of journalism, particularly as numerous local newspapers shut down and community libraries grapple with managing digital archives.

In correspondence with the Internet Archive, the coalition underscored the significance of the Wayback Machine in granting access to historical journalism, which is becoming increasingly necessary in a digital era where conventional archival resources are fading. They highlighted that the task of preserving journalism’s legacy is increasingly being assumed by the Internet Archive.

While USA Today asserts that its measures are intended to block scraping bots in general rather than specifically singling out the Internet Archive, the consequences of such limitations could obstruct journalists and researchers’ access to essential historical information.

This scenario illustrates the necessity for a balance between content protection and the preservation of historical access, as the Wayback Machine remains a vital resource for the future of journalism and the conservation of digital heritage.

**The Next-Gen MacBook Neo: Anticipations for the A19 Pro Chip**

Last week, a report showcased the remarkable success of the MacBook Neo, unveiling Apple’s intentions for its successor. The forthcoming MacBook Neo is expected to incorporate the new A19 Pro chip, which is set to offer substantial improvements over its predecessor.

### MacBook Neo’s Triumph

While Apple has not disclosed official sales data, CEO Tim Cook affirmed that the Mac experienced its most successful launch week ever among new customers with the Neo. Recent reports suggest that the popularity of the MacBook Neo has resulted in a shortage of A18 Pro chips, prompting Apple to expedite its plans for the next-gen model.

### Principal Advantages of the A19 Pro Chip

The A19 Pro chip is anticipated to introduce three significant advantages to the new MacBook Neo:

1. **Expanded RAM**: The upcoming model will boast 12GB of RAM, an enhancement from the current 8GB. This upgrade addresses one of the most frequent grievances about the existing model, boosting performance for users involved in more resource-intensive tasks beyond basic functions like web browsing and email.

2. **Elevated CPU and GPU Performance**: Although the CPU enhancements are moderate, the GPU will receive considerable upgrades. The incorporation of Neural Accelerators in each GPU core will deliver up to three times the performance for AI-related tasks, benefiting applications such as Apple Intelligence features and gaming.

3. **Greater Efficiency**: The A19 Pro chip is crafted to be more efficient than its predecessor, potentially resulting in enhanced battery performance. While the effect on battery life may not be significant, any improvement is appreciated.

### Conclusion

The expected enhancements in the upcoming MacBook Neo, specifically the A19 Pro chip, position it as an attractive choice for users contemplating an upgrade. With expanded RAM, improved performance, and greater efficiency, the new MacBook Neo aims to cater to both casual and power users alike.

### Customizing Your MacBook Neo: A Personalization Guide

The MacBook Neo has drawn the interest of many with its lively color selections, but for those wanting a distinct appearance, there are numerous methods to tailor this device. From skins and cases to silicone key caps, users can elevate their MacBook’s visual appeal. However, one of the more fascinating approaches involves utilizing official Apple components to alter the color palette of your MacBook Neo.

#### Cost-Effective Replacement Components

As reported in a recent piece by Macworld, the prices for replacement components for the MacBook Neo are surprisingly reasonable. For example, a new bottom case costs around $34.32, while a full keyboard replacement is approximately $113.52. This affordability grants users the chance to customize their devices without overspending.

#### Keycap Swaps for Customization

One of the most effective methods of customization is changing out the keyboard keycaps. With replacement keycaps priced as low as $39, users can effortlessly modify the color of their keyboard to fit their aesthetic. The variety in part selection allows users to combine colors, such as matching a citrus bottom case with indigo key caps, independent of the original hue of their MacBook Neo.

#### Purchasing and Installation

Users wanting to change their keycaps can order them directly from Apple’s self-service repair portal, where all four color variations are offered. Before making a purchase, it is essential to download a complimentary repair guide to receive the necessary code from Apple, which ensures that users understand the installation process. The specific user guide ID required for this is ZFXBHN.

#### Advanced Customization: Upgrading the SSD

For those aiming to elevate their customization, there’s also the possibility of swapping the SSD for a larger 1TB variant, using parts from iPhones. This upgrade not only boosts storage capacity but also provides a more tailored computing experience.

#### Closing Thoughts

Customizing your MacBook Neo can be an enjoyable and fulfilling endeavor. Whether through straightforward keycap changes or more extensive upgrades, there are numerous avenues for users to showcase their uniqueness. If you choose to personalize your MacBook Neo, think about sharing your experiences and images with the community.

**John Giannandrea’s Exit from Apple: A Fresh Era in AI Leadership**

John Giannandrea, a key player in the technology sector, is officially wrapping up his time at Apple this week. After joining the firm in 2018 following an extensive eight-year spell at Google, Giannandrea took charge of Apple’s machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives. His input was crucial in molding the company’s direction regarding AI technologies.

In December of last year, Apple disclosed that Giannandrea would be resigning from his leadership position but would remain an advisor until his complete exit in spring 2026. This transition is coordinated with Apple’s stock vesting timetable, enabling Giannandrea to take advantage of his stock awards prior to his exit.

Mark Gurman, in the latest edition of the *Power On* newsletter, revealed that Giannandrea’s advisory position wraps up this week, timed with Apple’s stock vesting date of April 15. After his exit, Giannandrea intends to participate with various company boards and offer advisory services within the startup landscape.

Giannandrea’s exit occurs amidst considerable shifts within Apple’s AI teams and organizational framework, especially after the debut of Apple Intelligence. Alongside Giannandrea’s departure, Apple appointed Amar Subramanya as the new Vice President of AI, reporting directly to Craig Federighi. Subramanya comes with extensive experience from his prior positions at Google and Microsoft.

Giannandrea’s supervision of the Siri team underwent notable changes in March 2025, as Tim Cook allegedly lost faith in his capacity to effectively drive product development. Currently, Siri’s leadership has shifted to Mike Rockwell, while Giannandrea’s additional duties have been reassigned to Craig Federighi, Eddy Cue, and Sabih Khan.

Looking forward, Apple is set to introduce major new AI and Siri functionalities as part of iOS 27 at the upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in just two months. These functionalities will signify a new chapter for Siri, especially following Apple’s recent collaboration with Google to incorporate Gemini models into its AI offerings.

As Giannandrea steps into his next chapter, the tech community keenly observes how Apple’s AI strategy adapts under new leadership and what innovations will surface in the fields of machine learning and artificial intelligence.

### Deep Red iPhone 18 Pro Report

In February, Bloomberg revealed that Apple is considering a new deep red hue for the iPhone 18 Pro, which some have referred to as crimson. This potential addition to Apple’s color spectrum has sparked interest among technology fans and industry analysts as well.

Per Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, it remains unclear if this new shade will take the place of the current Cosmic Orange or act as an alternative option. Gurman theorized that due to the popularity of the orange tint, Apple might choose to keep it while introducing the red as a new standout color. Nonetheless, he mentioned that the closeness of red and orange on the color wheel could complicate the decision-making process.

In the past, there were discussions about a possible purple color choice for the iPhone 18 Pro, but Gurman hinted that these might in fact be variants of the red tone under consideration.

### Leaker Backs Report in an Odd Way

Adding to the conjecture, leaker Digital Chat Station has suggested a strong likelihood that the iPhone 18 Pro will showcase a crimson shade. However, the leaker’s proof is somewhat indirect, claiming that rivals in the Android sector have been preparing their own takes on this color, implying they foresee its demand.

This suggests that competing brands may have caught wind of leaked details about Apple’s intentions for the red iPhone 18 Pro and are adapting their strategies in response. The leaker’s observations underline a pattern where competitors typically emulate Apple’s design choices, including color selections.

### 9to5Mac’s Take

The trend of rivals replicating iPhone designs, especially colors, has been noted before, as seen with the Cosmic Orange. Various Android manufacturers have been known to hasten to release comparable products upon learning of Apple’s designs. However, it remains uncertain whether the Android companies’ aims for deep red versions arise from new leaks or simply from the existing Bloomberg report.

Despite the uncertainty, there is a conviction that Apple’s experience with Cosmic Orange has shown the financial advantages of launching vibrant colors in its iPhone Pro series. This lends support to the initial report concerning the deep red color option for the iPhone 18 Pro.

**The Expected Introduction of the Folding iPhone: Innovations and Solutions to the Crease Issue**

Apple is believed to be gearing up for the debut of its inaugural folding iPhone, possibly referred to as the iPhone Ultra, later this year. This eagerly awaited gadget has been under development for several years, with Apple reportedly postponing its launch due to worries about the noticeable crease observed in initial competitor models.

### Addressing the Noticeable Crease Issue

The crease problem has posed a considerable obstacle for foldable smartphones. Initial models, including those from rivals like Samsung, displayed a prominent crease that Apple deemed unacceptable for its leading device. To tackle this, Apple has been vigorously engaged in rethinking the folding mechanism, working closely with its display partners to attain a more seamless look.

Recent updates suggest that Apple has adopted various methods to lessen crease visibility. According to supply-chain market analysis firm TrendForce, the company is employing advanced techniques to control stress distribution and the placement of the neutral layer within the multilayer composition of the display. This includes the incorporation of ultra-thin glass (UTG) that is crafted with varying thickness, enabling better flexibility at the bending axis while preserving durability in non-folding sections.

### The Importance of Advanced Adhesive

One of the most pivotal breakthroughs in the creation of the folding iPhone is the implementation of an intricate type of adhesive. This state-of-the-art glue remains adequately liquid to fill in microscopic irregularities that could result in visible creases. TrendForce emphasizes that this optically clear adhesive (OCA) has advanced beyond its conventional bonding function, now displaying viscoelastic traits that improve the toughness and performance of foldable displays.

The optimized structure of the OCA enables it to adapt flexibly to stress. It stays soft during gradual bending, lessening fatigue stress, while temporarily boosting its modulus under sudden pressure to offer structural support. This feature helps stabilize the neutral layer of the display, significantly alleviating stress concentration during the folding process. Furthermore, the adhesive’s micro-flow capabilities allow it to fill in any irregularities that may arise over time, further reducing the visibility of creases.

### Market Influence

With these advancements, Apple is anticipated to secure around 20% of the foldable smartphone market share upon the launch of the iPhone Ultra. The blend of cutting-edge materials and engineering solutions positions Apple to establish a new benchmark in the foldable smartphone segment, addressing one of the most pressing issues that have impacted this technology.

In summary, as Apple readies to reveal its first folding iPhone, the company’s dedication to overcoming the visible crease challenge through inventive design and materials underscores its commitment to excellence and user satisfaction. The awaited introduction signifies a major milestone in the progression of smartphones, potentially transforming consumer expectations for foldable devices.