Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple TV+ Renowned Sci-Fi Show Renewed for Another Season

The Foundation series on Apple TV+ has been increasingly recognized as one of the platform’s finest offerings. Despite considerable ambiguity regarding the show’s future, Apple has just revealed uplifting news: Foundation will be renewed for a fourth season.

## Foundation officially confirmed for season 4 on Apple TV+

Foundation is on the brink of its season 3 finale, concluding what’s been dubbed “one of the top shows of the year and an essential watch for every sci-fi enthusiast.” Until today, there were numerous queries about the show’s continuation. However, Apple has now confirmed that Foundation season 4 is underway.

“*There is no series quite like ‘Foundation,’ and we feel privileged and honored to be moving forward as co-showrunners into season four,*” state co-showrunners and executive producers Ian Goldberg and David Kob. “*We are eager to continue the grand, emotional storytelling that characterized the first three seasons of the series and to collaborate with some of the most talented, passionate creative partners in the industry.*”

One significant factor contributing to season 4’s unpredictability—aside from the show’s allegedly high production costs—was the exit of former showrunner David S. Goyer after season 3. Thankfully, Goyer remains involved as an executive producer, and the introduction of new showrunners might bring a revitalizing wave of creativity for the upcoming season.

Here’s what Apple’s head of programming shared about the renewal: “*It’s been remarkable to witness ‘Foundation’ grow into such a global sensation, with fans tuning in from every part of the globe,*” stated Matt Cherniss, head of programming, Apple TV+. “*With each new season, the anticipation surrounding this groundbreaking sci-fi epic continues to escalate, thanks to the daring storytelling and collective artistry of this exceptionally talented cast and creative team. We’re thrilled to keep exploring this universe together in season four.*”

Apple notes that production for season 4 will commence in early 2026. It is uncommon for the company to indicate such precise timing in its Apple TV+ renewal announcements. Perhaps Apple aims to convey that viewers may not face an extended wait for new episodes this time. Season 3 debuted this summer after a lengthy two-year gap. We might get to witness Foundation season 4 as early as late 2026—even a release in early 2027 would be an improvement.

In related Apple TV+ updates, the medical drama Berlin ER has also been renewed today, with season 2 now in development.

Apple TV+ is priced at $12.99 per month and features popular TV shows and films such as Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Silo, and Shrinking.

Read More
Main Distinctions Between iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air

# iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone Air: An In-Depth Comparison

iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone Air? This year, many iPhone purchasers face a tougher choice than ever before. Here’s a thorough comparison of Apple’s latest premium models, emphasizing the critical differences.

## Displays

For the first time, Apple has provided ProMotion support to non-Pro iPhone models. Both iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro models come with the same ProMotion features, such as a 120Hz variable refresh rate and an always-on display. The Super Retina XDR displays share identical specifications, with the sole distinction being their screen size:

– **iPhone Air**: 6.5 inches
– **iPhone 17 Pro**: 6.3 inches
– **iPhone 17 Pro Max**: 6.9 inches

All models also enable the option to disable PWM if it induces any discomfort.

## Size and Weight

Size and weight represent key distinctions between the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro models:

| Feature | iPhone Air | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max |
|—————-|———————|———————|———————|
| Height | 6.15 in (156.2 mm) | 5.91 in (150.0 mm) | 6.43 in (163.4 mm) |
| Width | 2.94 in (74.7 mm) | 2.83 in (71.9 mm) | 3.07 in (78.0 mm) |
| Depth | 0.22 in (5.64 mm) | 0.34 in (8.75 mm) | 0.34 in (8.75 mm) |
| Weight | 5.82 oz (165 g) | 7.27 oz (206 g) | 8.22 oz (233 g) |

The iPhone Air features a newly designed ultra-slim and lightweight aesthetic, while the 17 Pro line has seen an increase in size and heft compared to past models.

## Battery Life

The variations in size and weight have a notable effect on battery life:

– **iPhone Air**: Up to 27 hours of video playback
– **iPhone 17 Pro**: Up to 33 hours of video playback
– **iPhone 17 Pro Max**: Up to 39 hours of video playback

The iPhone Air’s 27 hours of playback equals that of the iPhone 16 Pro and exceeds the entry-level iPhone 16’s 22 hours, yet it lags behind the 17 Pro models.

## Camera Systems

Camera systems could be a decisive factor for prospective buyers. The iPhone 17 Pro showcases three rear cameras, whereas the iPhone Air includes just one. Both boast a 48MP Fusion Main camera, but the Air lacks the Telephoto and Ultra Wide cameras, leading to the following absent features:

– No Macro photos or video
– No Spatial photos or video
– No ProRAW photos or video
– No Cinematic Mode for video
– No studio-quality four-mic array
– No LiDAR Scanner
– No Pro-focused video functions like Genlock or Apple Log 2

Additional camera features include:

| Feature | iPhone Air | iPhone 17 Pro |
|———————–|——————–|———————|
| Optical zoom | 1x, 2x | 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x |
| 4K Dolby Vision | 60 fps | 120 fps |
| Slow-mo video | 1080p | 4K Dolby Vision |
| Flash | True Tone | Adaptive True Tone |
| OIS | Sensor-shift OIS | 2nd gen sensor-shift OIS |

The new Center Stage front camera is featured on both devices.

## Performance

Both iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air come equipped with the A19 Pro chip and 12GB of RAM. Nonetheless, the 17 Pro models surpass the iPhone Air due to:

1. A 6-core GPU versus the 5-core in the iPhone Air.
2. The incorporation of a newly designed Apple vapor chamber for cooling in the Pro models, enabling enhanced sustained performance.

## Design and Colors

The iPhone 17 Pro showcases a fresh aluminum unibody design, which has received varied responses. Available colors include:

– Cosmic Orange
– Deep Blue
– Silver

In contrast, the iPhone Air maintains a titanium chassis, providing a refined look. Available colors include:

– Sky Blue
– Light Gold
– Cloud White

Read More
Mosyle Uncovers New Cross-Platform Malware That Bypasses Antivirus Detection

### ModStealer: A Novel Cross-Platform Infostealer Endangering macOS, Windows, and Linux

Recent discoveries by Mosyle, a prominent entity in Apple device management and security, have exposed a new and advanced infostealer malware referred to as ModStealer. This malware has been noted for circumventing detection by major antivirus systems and presents a serious threat to users across various operating systems, including macOS, Windows, and Linux.

#### Delivery Mechanism and Targeting

ModStealer is chiefly disseminated through fraudulent job recruiter ads aimed at developers. This tactic exploits the trust associated with job postings, rendering it a particularly deceptive threat. The malware employs a heavily obfuscated JavaScript file crafted in NodeJS, enabling it to evade signature-based defenses commonly used by numerous antivirus products.

#### Data Exfiltration Abilities

The main goal of ModStealer is data exfiltration. It specifically seeks out sensitive information such as cryptocurrency wallets, credential files, configuration details, and certificates. Mosyle’s evaluation uncovered that the malware contains pre-installed code aimed at targeting 56 distinct browser wallet extensions, including those found in Safari, with the goal of retrieving private keys and sensitive account details.

In addition to data theft, ModStealer possesses advanced functionalities like clipboard capture, screen capture, and remote code execution. The latter capability is particularly alarming, as it provides attackers nearly complete dominion over compromised devices.

#### Evasion and Persistence

One of the most troubling features of ModStealer is its covert operation. On macOS, it secures persistence by exploiting Apple’s launchctl tool, embedding itself as a LaunchAgent. This enables it to sustain a long-lasting undetectable presence on the victim’s device, perpetually surveilling activities and exfiltrating confidential data to a remote server. Mosyle researchers have determined that the server facilitating the stolen data appears to be situated in Finland but connects to infrastructure in Germany, likely to conceal the operators’ genuine location.

#### Malware-as-a-Service Structure

Mosyle posits that ModStealer embodies the characteristics of Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS), where malware creators develop and sell malicious packages to affiliates with limited technical expertise. This business model has surged in popularity among cybercriminal organizations, especially in the dissemination of infostealers like ModStealer. Earlier this year, Jamf noted a 28% rise in infostealer malware, marking it as the predominant type of malware impacting Mac users in 2025.

#### Significance of Comprehensive Security Strategies

The rise of ModStealer serves as a grave reminder for security experts, developers, and end users that reliance solely on signature-based defenses is inadequate. Ongoing monitoring, behavior-oriented defenses, and awareness of emerging threats are crucial to staying ahead of adversaries.

#### Signs of Compromise

For those wary of potential infections, Mosyle has shared the following signs of compromise:

– **SHA256 hash**: 8195148d1f697539e206a3db1018d3f2d6daf61a207c71a93ec659697d219e84
– **Filename**: .sysupdater[.]dat
– **C2 server IP address**: 95.217.121

Read More
Apple’s Reply to Issues Regarding iPhone Air Bending Concerns

### Apple’s iPhone Air: Is Bending a Concern?

Apple’s sleek iPhone Air has sparked considerable buzz since its release, yet a key inquiry lingers for prospective buyers: will it bend? In a recent interview, Apple officials tackled this worry head-on.

#### Apple Executives Challenge Reporters to Test Flexibility

After the announcement of the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air, Tom’s Guide and Tech Radar held a discussion with Apple’s John Ternus and Greg Joswiak. During their conversation, the issue of the iPhone Air’s flexibility came up.

Ternus asserted confidently, “It surpasses our internal standards for bend strength,” while Joswiak noted that these standards are “quite high.” To illustrate their confidence, Joswiak invited the interviewers to try bending the iPhone Air themselves. In a bold gesture, he tossed the device to Lance Ulanoff, who, together with the interviewer, attempted to bend it. Their efforts proved fruitless, as the iPhone Air remained unscathed.

This invitation for a hands-on test showcased a daring marketing approach by Apple, reflecting their faith in the iPhone Air’s robustness.

#### Concerns About Durability

Although Apple’s assurances regarding the iPhone Air’s bend strength are reassuring, the real assessment of its durability will unfold over time. Users who keep the device in their back pockets and frequently sit down may still ponder the long-term implications for the iPhone Air’s titanium-reinforced structure.

As with any emerging technology, only time will tell how well the iPhone Air endures everyday usage.

#### Conclusion

The durability of the iPhone Air is a significant concern for many potential customers. While Apple’s executives have offered some comfort regarding its bend strength, the actual performance of the device in real-world scenarios will ultimately dictate its lifespan. Users are invited to voice their opinions and concerns about the iPhone Air’s durability in the comments section.

Read More
Perspectives from Apple TV+ Talent Regarding Their Experience Collaborating with Apple

Apple TV+ is anticipated to achieve significant success at the Emmy’s this weekend, and prior to the awards ceremony, Reuters has shared new remarks from numerous Apple TV+ stars and creative individuals regarding their experiences collaborating with Apple. Here’s what they expressed.

### Apple is not the ‘corporate overlord’ that some creatives anticipated

Today at Reuters, Lisa Richwine and Dawn Chmielewski released a collection of quotes from stars and creators who have worked on Apple TV+ shows and films.

Here’s a selection of (highly positive) celebrity remarks:

– **Seth Rogen**, star of *The Studio* and *Platonic*: “I was quite concerned that they might be restrictive. And then there’s a scene in ‘Platonic’ where we snort cocaine and ketamine off of an iPhone…They were not as corporate overlord-ish as I had feared they would be.”

– **Ben Stiller** mentioned that no other studio was interested in producing *Severance*, and he found Apple “very respectful to creatives, but also with insightful ideas.”

– **Jessica Chastain**, star of the upcoming thriller *The Savant*: “All of the notes that were provided were very specific and advanced the story.”

– **Jason Segel**, co-creator and star of *Shrinking*: “This is quite risky territory for a feel-good comedy. But from the very start, there was trust, like these people can pull this off.”

– **Jerry Bruckheimer**, producer of *F1 The Movie*: “They understood that presenting it in a very accurate manner would be the best way to showcase this film as something from Apple. It’s exceptionally well crafted and beautifully executed.”

Moreover, Jessica Chastain informed Reuters that her experience working with Apple was so rewarding, she now has two additional projects in development at Apple TV+.

The article also highlights praise from **Vince Gilligan**, creator of Apple’s enigmatic *Pluribus* show debuting in November:

> “Breaking Bad” creator Vince Gilligan shared that he brought his upcoming sci-fi series, “Pluribus,” to Apple TV+ partly due to their “very generous offer” among several bidders. Gilligan indicated that other aspects mattered more than the financial amount, which he opted not to disclose. A significant advantage, he noted, was the chance to reunite with Erlicht and Van Amburg, who led Sony Pictures Television during the production of “Breaking Bad” and its spin-off “Better Call Saul.” He praised Apple for backing an ambitious project.

Prior to the official launch of Apple TV+ in 2019, there were speculations suggesting Apple executives were exceptionally hands-on, micro-managing and censoring its various TV shows in development. That assertion has since been categorically denied, with today’s quotes serving as the latest proof.

Apple TV+ is offered at $12.99 per month and showcases popular TV shows and films like *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, *Silo*, and *Shrinking*.

Read More
Apple Creates Cutting-Edge Design for Slimmer USB-C Port in iPhone Air

**iPhone Air Features 3D-Printed Titanium USB-C Port That Is Lighter and More Robust**

Last year, amid speculation regarding Apple’s designs for an ultra-slim new iPhone, many believed that the USB-C charging port would impede the device’s slim profile. Nevertheless, Apple unveiled a groundbreaking solution for the iPhone Air’s USB-C port by employing 3D-printed titanium.

Apple has recently released its slimmest product so far with the M4 iPad Pro. Users promptly recognized that the device’s slimness posed challenges to the traditional design of USB-C ports. Earlier insights suggested that Apple’s USB-C chargers were marginally thicker than the devices they were paired with, raising questions about how slender the forthcoming iPhone Air might be.

Even though the iPhone Air is bulkier than the iPad Pro, Apple endeavored to devise a thinner USB-C port, resulting in a major technological leap. As stated in Apple’s press release, the new titanium USB-C port is 3D-printed, enabling it to be thinner and more durable while utilizing 33% less material compared to conventional forging techniques.

This manufacturing innovation allows the iPhone Air’s USB-C port to be more streamlined than typical designs without sacrificing strength, mitigating potential bending concerns. Importantly, there has been no suggestion that this method will be incorporated in the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, or iPhone 17 Pro Max, which are projected to utilize standard USB-C ports.

The slimmer USB-C port on the iPhone Air does not impede the functionality of charging cables or accessories; rather, it is the internal components that have been fine-tuned for a more condensed design. This progress illustrates Apple’s dedication to advancing smartphone design in the quest for the thinnest iPhone to date.

Read More
Cutoff Time for Quick iPhone 17 Pre-Order Access

Pre-orders for the iPhone 17 series and iPhone Air are set to kick off tomorrow at 5:00 a.m. PT. To facilitate a seamless and effective pre-order experience, Apple has rolled out a ‘Get Ready’ feature that enables customers to get ready in advance.

### Final Opportunity to Prepare for iPhone 17 or iPhone Air Pre-orders

Apple has been striving to improve the iPhone pre-ordering system throughout the years. With numerous customers keen to obtain their new devices at the same time, pre-selecting your iPhone model can offer a considerable advantage. This pre-selection feature is available solely through the online Apple Store and the Apple Store app.

Nonetheless, there is a cutoff for securing your pre-selections. As per Apple’s latest update, customers can finalize their preferred model, accessories, carrier, payment method, and trade-in options until **9 p.m. PDT** this evening. After these selections are saved, customers will be merely one click away from finalizing their pre-order when it opens tomorrow morning.

If you intend to buy an iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, or iPhone Air, it is strongly advised to take advantage of the ‘Get Ready’ feature in the Apple Store app or on Apple.com.

The cutoff for saving your pre-order selections is **9:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. CT / 12:00 a.m. ET** tonight, September 11.

For individuals still pondering which model to select, Apple has offered suggestions to help make the correct decision.

By saving your iPhone 17 or iPhone Air pre-order preferences before the deadline, you can guarantee a swift and efficient checkout process tomorrow morning.

Read More
Ongoing Promotions for Apple Watch Ultra 3, M4 MacBook Air with $200 Savings, and $750 Reduction on iPhone 16/15 Pro Max

# Pre-Order Offers and Savings on Apple’s Latest Devices

As the tech community eagerly awaits the debut of Apple’s newest gadgets, a variety of pre-order offers have surfaced, providing considerable discounts on sought-after items. This article showcases the top pre-order deals for the new Apple Watch Ultra 3, along with savings on other Apple products, including the AirPods Pro 3 and the M4 MacBook Air.

## Apple Watch Ultra 3 Pre-Order Promotions

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is ready for pre-order, with numerous retailers presenting enticing discounts. Best Buy is offering a $50 price cut for its Plus and Total members, reducing the price from $799 to $749.99. This deal is straightforward and requires no store credit or enhanced trade-in values, making it a compelling choice for members.

Moreover, Best Buy’s trade-in program enables customers to earn up to $250 in credit for trading in an Apple Watch Ultra 2, $185 for an Apple Watch 1, and $180 for an Apple Watch Series 10. However, Apple’s trade-in program might provide better valuations, potentially granting credits up to $335 for an Ultra 2 trade-in.

## Savings on M4 MacBook Air

Beyond the Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple’s 15-inch M4 MacBook Air variants are also experiencing noteworthy price reductions. B&H is presently offering a $200 discount on various configurations, including 16GB, 24GB, and 32GB variants. This makes the M4 MacBook Air an attractive choice for those in search of a powerful laptop without upgrading to the pricier M4 MacBook Pro series.

The pricing for these models is competitive, particularly when juxtaposed with the forthcoming M5 MacBook Pro models anticipated later this year. For example, the 16GB/512GB Pro model is tagged at $1,429, which is $230 higher than the equivalent MacBook Air configurations.

## Featured Accessories

In conjunction with these device offers, several accessory brands are launching new items designed for the latest iPhone series. Totallee has unveiled ultra-thin cases for the iPhone 17 lineup, aimed at delivering protection without bulk. Dbrand has also introduced its fresh collection of iPhone 17 cases, utilizing scratch-resistant materials and customizable skins.

TORRAS has launched its Ostand Q3 Silicone and Ostand Q3 Air cases, which provide military-grade protection and built-in stands, available at promotional prices during the initial launch phase.

## Conclusion

With the introduction of new Apple devices, consumers have numerous pre-order deals and discounts to benefit from. Whether your interest lies in the Apple Watch Ultra 3, M4 MacBook Air, or accessories for the iPhone 17, now is an ideal time to explore these savings prospects. As always, it’s wise to compare pricing across various retailers to ensure you’re securing the best deal available.

Read More
iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16: Main Distinctions and Fresh Features

On Tuesday, Apple unveiled the latest iPhone 17, along with the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air. Here’s a rundown of all the new features in the iPhone 17!

## New Colors

The iPhone 17 is available in **Lavender, Sage, Mist Blue, White, and Black**, moving away from the iPhone 16’s Pink, Teal, Ultramarine, White, and Black. The Black variant is lighter, and the White variant is brighter than its predecessor.

## ProMotion Display

For the first instance in a non-Pro iPhone, the iPhone 17 incorporates ProMotion, which includes:

– Adaptive refresh rates ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz for a smoother display and enhanced battery longevity.
– Always-On display for showing time, Widgets, and notifications while the device is asleep.

The display size has expanded to 6.3″, increased from 6.1″, due to slimmer bezels.

## Ceramic Shield 2

The iPhone 17 introduces Ceramic Shield 2, which provides:

– 3x improved scratch resistance.
– A new 7-layer anti-reflective coating to minimize glare.

All new models offer a peak brightness of 3000 nits outdoors, enhanced from 2000 nits, delivering 2x better contrast.

## A19 Chip

The A19 chip boosts performance, emphasizing AI capabilities with new Neural Accelerators for enhanced machine learning tasks. It offers “MacBook Pro-levels” of power and a 20% performance increase in GPU compared to A18.

## Improved Battery Life and Charging

The iPhone 17 features notable battery life enhancements:

– Up to 30 hours of downloaded video playback (an increase from 22 hours).
– Up to 27 hours of streamed video playback (up from 18 hours).

It supports Qi2.2 with fast charging at up to 25W and 40W fast charging, achieving a 50% charge in just 20 minutes.

## New 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide Camera

The iPhone 17 incorporates a 48MP ultra wide “Fusion” camera, a 4x upgrade from the previous model. It enables full-resolution 12MP Macro photos and 24MP ultra wide photos by default.

## All-New Center Stage Front Camera

The upgraded front camera utilizes a square image sensor, allowing smooth transitions between portrait and landscape photos. It boasts an 18MP resolution and features Center Stage for video calls, automatically adjusting the frame. A dual capture mode permits simultaneous recording from both front and back cameras.

## New N1 Wireless Networking Chip

The iPhone 17 marks the introduction of Apple’s inaugural in-house wireless chip, enhancing overall wireless performance. It now supports Bluetooth 6 and precision dual-frequency GPS, along with NavIC support in India.

## Physical Size and Thickness

The iPhone 17 is marginally heavier and thicker:

– 7.95 mm thick (up from 7.80 mm).
– 177 g (up from 170 g).

It is also slightly taller and narrower:

– 5.89 in tall (increased from 5.81 in).
– 2.81 in wide (decreased from 2.82 in).

## Pricing and Availability

The iPhone 17 begins at 256 GB of storage for $799, down from $899. The 512 GB version is now priced at $999 instead of $1099. There is no iPhone 17 Plus for this year.

Preorders will commence at 5:00 AM PT on September 12, with in-store availability on September 19.

Read More
Apple’s A19 iPhone Range Unveils Unmatched Capabilities

### A19 Chip is Available in Three Variants for iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and iPhone 17 Pro

Each year, one of the standout features of Apple’s latest iPhones is the introduction of a new A-series chip. This year, with the launch of the A19, Apple is implementing a major shift in its iPhone variety by providing three unique variants of the chip across several models.

#### A Fresh Take on Chip Variants

In contrast to recent years, when iPhone upgrades seemed more evolutionary, Apple has unveiled an intriguing set of announcements with its newest iPhones. The inclusion of the iPhone Air has redirected attention, yet the A19 chip continues to be a vital part of the updated range.

For the first time, Apple is offering three distinct versions of its A-series chip for the iPhone range:

– **iPhone 17:** A19 chip
– **iPhone Air:** A19 Pro chip featuring a 5-core GPU
– **iPhone 17 Pro:** A19 Pro chip equipped with a 6-core GPU

This signifies a break from earlier models, where normally only two variants were on offer. The only exception was seen with iPad variations that were released subsequently.

#### Performance and Efficiency

Apple asserts that the A19 Pro chip is superior in both speed and efficiency when compared to the standard A19 chip. Moreover, it is anticipated that the A19 Pro will incorporate 12GB of RAM, unlike the 8GB present in the non-Pro variant. Although Apple has not officially verified this, it is thought that the chip in the iPhone Air is a binned variant of the one used in the iPhone 17 Pro.

The disparity in GPU cores between the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro—5 cores compared to 6 cores—might not greatly affect most users. However, for those pursuing maximum performance, the iPhone 17 Pro, with its complete 6-core GPU and sophisticated vapor chamber cooling technology, emerges as the standout option.

#### Future Implications

The launch of three A-series chips is expected to establish a benchmark for upcoming iPhone iterations. As Apple persists in its innovations, the subsequent generation, the A20 chip, may also feature multiple variants, particularly with the anticipated debut of the iPhone Fold and modifications to the iPhone 18 lineup.

In summary, while the variations among the A19 chips may not be significant for every user, they signify a major shift in Apple’s strategy regarding its iPhone range, paving the way for more diverse and powerful devices ahead.

Read More