A Handbook for Selecting the Appropriate New iPhone Model Per Apple

Apple has recently launched four new iPhone variants: the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the iPhone Air. The emergence of the iPhone Air adds another layer of complexity for prospective buyers, leading Apple to produce a video called “The Can’t Decide Guide” to help consumers select the most suitable model for their preferences.

### Unsure About Which New iPhone Model to Choose? Apple is Here to Assist

The video, released following the iPhone 17 launch event, gives insights into the primary audience for each model. Here are the key points:

– **iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max**: These models are deemed the most powerful choices on the market, showcasing a wide range of features. Apple positions them as the perfect option for those in pursuit of top-tier performance and features in an iPhone.

– **iPhone Air**: Branded as the slimmest iPhone yet at merely 5.6mm, the iPhone Air is marketed as a high-performance device that marries elegant design with remarkable capability. Apple promotes it without targeting a particular demographic, highlighting its distinctive characteristics.

– **iPhone 17**: This model is described as an all-around superb phone, available in a spectrum of appealing colors, making it ideal for users in search of a versatile device.

### Insights from 9to5Mac

The iPhone Air is notable as the singular model lacking a defined comparative advantage. Rather than focusing on a specific user group, Apple underscores the Air’s ultra-slim profile and robust performance, implying it might signify the future of iPhone design. The blend of thinness and capability could establish a new benchmark for forthcoming models, while the Pro variants will maintain their appeal to users who prioritize features and battery longevity.

As buyers contemplate their choices, they may find the iPhone Air appealing due to its cutting-edge design, while others might opt for the extensive features of the Pro models or the balanced performance of the iPhone 17.

For those facing challenges in deciding on which new iPhone to buy, Apple’s guide and the opinions from tech experts like 9to5Mac can offer significant guidance in navigating the newest offerings.

Comparison of Dimensions: iPhone Air versus iPhone 17 Pro

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

Apple has unveiled the iPhone Air, a fresh addition that distinguishes itself in the lineup with its more extensive display compared to the iPhone 17 Pro. This article offers a thorough analysis of the dimensions and features of these two models, assisting potential purchasers in making a well-informed choice.

## Product Dimensions: iPhone Air vs. iPhone 17 Pro

The iPhone series this year presents a spectrum of choices, making it crucial for users to comprehend the distinctions among models. For enthusiasts of larger displays, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is an evident pick. Nevertheless, the choice between the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro is not as clear-cut.

### Specifications

**iPhone Air**
– Height: 6.15 inches
– Width: 2.94 inches
– Display: 6.5 inches (diagonal)

**iPhone 17 Pro**
– Height: 5.91 inches
– Width: 2.83 inches
– Display: 6.3 inches (diagonal)

Although the iPhone Air has a larger size, it is also slimmer, which may attract users who want a sizable display without compromising on portability.

## Size Comparison

For those moving up from the iPhone 16 Pro, the iPhone 17 Pro’s size remains almost unchanged, facilitating a comparison of the new models against known dimensions.

### Depth and Weight

An additional crucial factor to contemplate is the depth of the devices:
– iPhone Air: 0.22 inches
– iPhone 17 Pro: 0.34 inches

This variation in depth affects how each model feels in hand, with the iPhone Air likely providing a more pleasant grip. Furthermore, the weight comparison reveals:
– iPhone Air: 5.82 ounces
– iPhone 17 Pro: 7.27 ounces

The lighter weight of the iPhone Air may also attract users who seek a device that is easier to handle.

## Conclusion

The size variances between the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro are not extremely pronounced, which could relieve concerns for those who generally prefer more compact phones. The iPhone Air offers a more expansive display while retaining a sleek design, making it an appealing option for users desiring a large screen without added heft.

As individuals evaluate their choices between the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro, it’s vital to take into account personal preferences regarding dimensions, weight, and overall feel. What elements matter the most to you when selecting your next iPhone?

Spotify Gradually Unveils Lossless Audio Streaming, Four Years Following Apple Music’s Library Enhancement

**Spotify Unveils Lossless Audio for Premium Users**

In a noteworthy initiative that echoes Apple Music’s previous upgrade, Spotify has commenced the rollout of lossless audio support specifically for its Premium users. This advancement represents an important stride in improving the listening experience for those who emphasize sound excellence.

**The Announcement**

Spotify’s Vice President of Subscriptions, Gustav Gyllenhammar, shared his enthusiasm regarding the new feature, stating, “The wait is finally over; we’re thrilled that lossless sound is being made available to Premium users.” He highlighted that the rollout was crafted with an emphasis on quality, usability, and transparency, ensuring that users are aware of the audio quality settings.

**Manual Activation Required**

Although the launch of lossless audio is a favorable enhancement, users will have to manually activate this feature on each of their devices. A Lossless indicator will appear in the Now Playing view or through the Connect Picker, enabling users to verify that they are enjoying enhanced sound quality.

**Gradual Rollout**

The lossless audio feature is progressively being launched across more than 50 markets throughout October. Premium users in nations like Australia, Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, the US, and the UK have already started gaining access.

**How to Enable Lossless Audio**

For Premium users eager to dive into lossless audio, follow these steps to activate the feature:

1. Tap your profile icon located in the top left.
2. Go to Settings & Privacy → Media Quality.
3. Select where to turn on lossless audio: Wi-Fi, cellular, or downloads.

It’s essential to make sure that you have the most recent version of the Spotify app, which was launched concurrently with the announcement.

**Conclusion**

The launch of lossless audio on Spotify is a remarkable improvement for users who appreciate top-notch sound quality. As the rollout progresses, subscribers can anticipate a richer and more intricate listening experience, bringing Spotify more in line with its competition in the streaming music industry.

The iPhone Air: A Sleeker Option, But Surpassed by Rivals

**The iPhone Air: Apple’s Most Slender Smartphone to Date**

Apple has reached an impressive landmark with the introduction of the iPhone Air, which is now the slimmest iPhone ever made, breaking the previous record set by the iPhone 6 since 2014. With an elegant thickness of only 5.6mm, the iPhone Air not just establishes a new benchmark for Apple but also outperforms its present Android rivals in terms of thinness.

### A New Standard in Slimness

The iPhone Air’s remarkable thickness of 5.6mm makes it more slender than any current Android smartphone, with the nearest competitor being the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge at 5.8mm. Significantly, Google’s models have lagged behind, as their thinnest variant, the Pixel 2, hails from 2017 and measures 7.8mm.

Nonetheless, while the iPhone Air is the slimmest iPhone so far, it does not claim the title of the slimmest smartphone ever released. Several older models continue to hold that accolade, highlighting the ongoing progress of smartphone design.

### Historical Rivals

As per research conducted by Macworld’s David Price, three prominent smartphones are thinner than the iPhone Air:

1. **Motorola Moto Z** – At a mere 5.2mm, this device debuted in 2016 and remains a noteworthy example of extreme slimness.

2. **Oppo R5** – With a thickness of 4.9mm, this smartphone was launched in 2014, the same year as the iPhone 6, and has since been lauded for its slender design.

3. **vivo X5Max** – The slimmest non-folding phone on record, the vivo X5Max features a stunning thickness of 4.8mm, also released in 2014, marking it as a pivotal year for slim devices.

### The Folding Phone Discussion

Price’s assessment overlooks folding phones, which can achieve thinner dimensions when unfolded. If considered, the Honor Magic V5 and the Oppo Find N5 would jointly hold the title of the slimmest phone, each at 4.2mm. However, the practicality of thickness tends to be more relevant when the device is stored in a pocket rather than when being actively used.

### Conclusion

The iPhone Air signifies a major milestone in smartphone design, reflecting Apple’s dedication to innovation and aesthetics. While it may not be the thinnest phone ever, its status as the thinnest iPhone is a showcase of the brand’s continual progression in the competitive smartphone landscape. As technology improves, it will be captivating to observe how manufacturers rise to the challenge of developing even slimmer devices without sacrificing functionality.

Current Offers: Enjoy savings of up to $65 on AirPods Pro 3, $180 discount on Apple Watch Series 11 with trade-in, $400 reduction on M4 Pro MacBook Pro, and additional deals.

**Pre-Orders Now Available for Apple’s Newest Devices: AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and More**

Pre-orders for the latest AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch SE 3, and Apple Watch Ultra 3 have officially begun. As buyers prepare to secure these new releases from Apple, a range of promotions and deals are in place to improve the shopping experience.

### AirPods Pro 3: Promotions and Offers

The AirPods Pro 3 are currently up for pre-order, with multiple retailers providing incentives to promote sales. Specifically, Best Buy is offering a **FREE $20 store voucher** to members who pre-order the new AirPods Pro 3. This voucher will be issued around 15 days following the fulfillment of the order, making it a great incentive for those looking to save on future purchases.

Along with the store voucher, Best Buy is also presenting trade-in options that can further lessen the price of the new AirPods Pro 3. Shoppers can benefit from up to **$45 off** by trading in an older model, like the AirPods 3rd Generation, or **$35 off** for trading in an AirPods Pro 2. This means that with the combined discounts from the store voucher and trade-in, customers could save as much as **$65** on their new AirPods Pro 3.

### Apple Watch Series 11: Improved Trade-In Offers

The Apple Watch Series 11 is also available for pre-order, featuring similar trade-in promotions. Customers can take advantage of elevated trade-in values that could provide them with up to **$180 off** the retail price of the new smartwatch. This makes upgrading to the latest version more attainable for current Apple Watch owners.

### New Accessories for iPhone 17

Alongside the new AirPods and Apple Watches, there are also exciting accessories available for the newly launched iPhone 17. Totallee has released ultra-slim cases designed for protection without adding weight. The thinnest choice, “The Scarf,” is just 0.02 inches thick and is drop-tested for up to 3 feet, while “The Spy” provides extra protection at 0.04 inches and is drop-tested for 6 feet.

Dbrand has also unveiled its iPhone 17 case collection, featuring the ultra-transparent Ghost Case, which is scratch-resistant and compatible with MagSafe. Their Grip Case provides customizable skins and responsive buttons, appealing to users seeking both style and practicality.

### Conclusion

With pre-orders now available for the AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and other devices, consumers have a special chance to take advantage of various promotions and trade-in options. Whether upgrading current devices or acquiring new accessories for the iPhone 17, there are substantial savings to be made. As these products come to market, savvy customers can capitalize on these offers to enhance their Apple experience.

AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2: Main Distinctions and Newly Introduced Features Clarified

**AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2: A Detailed Comparison**

The AirPods Pro 3 have launched three years after the AirPods Pro 2. With major enhancements in audio capabilities, aesthetics, health monitoring, and battery performance, many consumers are contemplating whether the new version is a worthwhile purchase. Here’s an in-depth comparison of both models.

### Audio Feature Enhancements

The AirPods Pro 3 bring significant advancements in sound quality. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) has been refined, reportedly blocking out up to twice as much noise when compared to AirPods Pro 2 and four times more than the initial model. Apple asserts that these headphones possess the finest ANC technology found in any in-ear wireless headphones.

The internal structure has also undergone a redesign, incorporating a new multiport acoustic architecture that optimizes Adaptive EQ and Transparency mode. This setup allows for improved airflow regulation, resulting in better bass response and a broader soundstage, ensuring that vocals and instruments are clear.

### Design and Comfort

Though the overall look of AirPods Pro 3 is similar to that of the AirPods Pro 2, there are distinct variations. The newer version is more compact and offers five sizes of ear tips, now including an XXS option. Furthermore, all ear tips are now infused with foam, delivering a snugger and more comfortable fit.

### Health Monitoring and Robustness

AirPods Pro 3 enhance health tracking capabilities by adding a heart rate sensor. This feature enables users to monitor their heart rate during workouts without the need for an Apple Watch. The new photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor assesses blood circulation by emitting infrared light and works in conjunction with the device’s accelerometers and gyroscope.

Regarding durability, the AirPods Pro 3 possess superior water and dust resistance, featuring an IP57 rating compared to the IP54 rating of the AirPods Pro 2.

### Improved Battery Longevity

Apple has emphasized that the AirPods Pro 3 deliver enhanced battery longevity. They provide 8 hours of listening time with ANC active, a 33% boost over the prior model’s 6 hours. In Transparency mode, users can experience up to 10 hours of listening time, a 67% enhancement.

Nonetheless, the charging case for AirPods Pro 3 has a lower total battery capacity, allowing for 24 hours of listening time in contrast to the 30 hours obtainable with AirPods Pro 2.

### Enhanced Find My Capability with U2 Chip

The charging case for AirPods Pro 3 comes equipped with a new U2 chip, improving the Find My feature. This second-generation Ultra Wideband chip enables more accurate tracking of misplaced AirPods cases when compared to the first-generation U1 chip in AirPods Pro 2.

### Conclusion

In summary, the AirPods Pro 3 signify a notable advancement over the AirPods Pro 2, especially concerning audio performance, comfort, health capabilities, and durability. While the overall battery life with the charging case is somewhat diminished, the advancements in ANC and the introduction of a heart rate sensor render the new model attractive for those in search of superior performance. Users seeking enhanced sound quality and a more secure fit will discover the AirPods Pro 3 to be a valuable investment.

Announcement: New Sleep Score Functionality Compatible with External Devices

Grasping the New Sleep Score Functionality for Apple Watch

The recent launch of the Sleep Score functionality signifies a major improvement in how individuals can observe their sleep habits, especially for those using older Apple Watch versions. This functionality not only delivers insights into sleep quality but also cooperates flawlessly with external accessories that provide sleep tracking features.

Sleep Score is Not Exclusively Linked to Apple Watch

One of the most remarkable features of the Sleep Score functionality is its availability. Users are not required to possess an Apple Watch to see their sleep score; it can be accessed via the Health app on iOS 26. This indicates that even if you lack the newest Apple Watch, you can still derive benefits from the insights offered by the Sleep Score.

Additionally, the feature does not necessitate watchOS 26 to be installed on your Apple Watch. It employs sleep data gathered by the Apple Watch and compatible external devices, enabling users to retrospectively examine their sleep scores using historical data. Once iOS 26 is installed, individuals can scrutinize their sleep patterns from the very first instance their device captured sleep data.

For those who wish to receive this information straight on their wrist, an Apple Watch running watchOS 26 is essential. This encompasses models such as the Apple Watch Series 6 and later, Apple Watch SE 2 and subsequent versions, and any Apple Watch Ultra model.

How Sleep Score Functions

The Sleep Score functionality assesses sleep quality based on several vital factors, including:

• Duration of Sleep: The entire time spent sleeping.
• Bedtime Consistency: Regularity in sleep routines.
• Awakenings: Occurrence and length of disruptions during the night.
• Sleep Stages: Duration spent in different sleep phases, such as deep sleep, core sleep, and REM sleep.

After the score is determined, Apple categorizes the findings and contrasts them with the user’s average data. This analysis assists users in pinpointing specific areas needing enhancement in their sleep habits.

The creation of the Sleep Score functionality is supported by extensive research, leveraging data from over 5 million nights of sleep documented in the Apple Heart and Movement Study. It also integrates recommendations from respected organizations like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the National Sleep Foundation, and the World Sleep Society.

Conclusion

The Sleep Score functionality serves as a crucial resource for users aiming to improve their sleep quality, regardless of whether they own the latest Apple Watch model. By utilizing both built-in and external sleep tracking data, Apple delivers a thorough overview of sleep behaviors, enabling users to make well-informed decisions regarding their sleep health.

Apple Unveils Two Thrilling New Features in iOS 26

### iOS 26 Debuts with Exciting New Facility: Auto-Tinting App Icons

iOS 26 is scheduled to be released for all users on September 15, 2025. Following months of beta trials, Apple has unveiled several surprise features that have rapidly garnered user enthusiasm. One of the most prominent new features is the capability for app icons to automatically tint according to the color of your iPhone or its case.

#### App Icons Can Now Be Tinted to Correspond with Your iPhone Color or Case in iOS 26

Last year, iOS 18 introduced an array of new customization opportunities for iPhone users. However, the unexpected additions in iOS 26 have the potential to eclipse earlier updates with their enjoyable and useful customization options.

As disclosed in the iOS 26 Release Candidate (RC), Apple has incorporated two new choices under the Customize menu for tinted app icons. To utilize these features, users can adhere to these straightforward steps:

1. Long-press on an empty area of your Home Screen.
2. Tap the Edit button that appears in the upper-left corner.
3. Select ‘Customize’.
4. Select ‘Tinted’.

Previously, this menu permitted users to manually configure color tints for their app icons. Now, iOS 26 introduces two new tint options that can automatically modify the colors of your app icons based on:

– The color of your iPhone
– The color of your iPhone case

For example, if your iPhone 16 Pro is in the Desert Titanium finish, selecting the corresponding option will instantly update all app icons to align with that hue.

This functionality also applies to iPhone cases. While one option alters the app icons to correspond with the iPhone itself, the other modifies the icons to reflect the color of the iPhone’s case. Although the current case-less setup may result in transparent icons, this feature is anticipated to be especially advantageous for the majority of iPhone users who use cases.

It is speculated that auto-tinting may necessitate an official MagSafe case from Apple, although some third-party MagSafe-compatible cases might also function appropriately.

While app tinting is not an entirely new idea, these enhancements increase the charm of iOS’s app customization features. Users no longer have to invest time seeking the ideal color match, and for those utilizing a case, this feature provides a handy method for achieving a cohesive look with just a tap.

Will you make use of the new app auto-tinting features in iOS 26? Share your opinions in the comments.

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iOS 26 Launches New Camera Functionality for iPhone 16 Users

### New ‘Bright’ Photography Style Arriving for iPhone 16

Yesterday, during the launch of the iPhone 17, Apple revealed an exciting new ‘Bright’ Photography Style for its users. Notably, this feature will also be accessible for select iPhone 16 models via the upcoming iOS 26 update.

A highlight of the iPhone 16 was its state-of-the-art Photography Styles. Although they may seem like ordinary filters, Apple’s approach is notably different. Rather than making adjustments after the shot is taken, the selected Photography Style affects the image processing chain at the moment the picture is captured. This allows users to observe the impact of their chosen style in the Camera app’s viewfinder before taking a photo.

The newly launched ‘Bright’ style enhances skin tones and infuses pictures with vibrancy, resulting in more dynamic and attractive images.

Initially introduced as a feature exclusive to the iPhone 17, the ‘Bright’ style will also be made available for the following iPhone 16 models:

– iPhone 16
– iPhone 16 Plus
– iPhone 16 Pro
– iPhone 16 Pro Max

These devices will gain access to the new style through the iOS 26 update. Users currently testing the iOS 26 Release Candidate can experience the ‘Bright’ style now, while the official rollout of iOS 26 is set for Monday, September 15.

Having explored Photography Styles when the iPhone 16 launched, many users, including myself, initially selected the Default option. However, the arrival of the ‘Bright’ style might inspire a reassessment of these preferences.

As the release date nears, users are urged to reflect on which Photography Style they are using and whether they would like to try out the new Bright option.

Updated Attributes Boost HomePod’s Intelligent Speaker Functions

### HomePod Software Update: Features and Enhancements

At Apple’s recent event, the spotlight on the HomePod series was minimal, leaving many fans eager for the expected announcement of the HomePod mini 2. Nonetheless, a software update scheduled for next week is set to upgrade the HomePod experience with two significant new features.

#### Software Version 26 Update

The forthcoming software version 26 brings enhancements designed to improve music playback and make WiFi management simpler within the Home app settings.

#### Apple Music Crossfade

A highlight of this update is the introduction of Crossfade for Apple Music on HomePod. This feature facilitates a smooth transition between tracks, where the conclusion of one song fades out while the next fades in, delivering an uninterrupted listening experience. Users can activate Crossfade by going to Home Settings in the Home app and setting the duration anywhere from 1 to 12 seconds. However, it’s important to note that the AutoMix feature is absent in this update, leaving users optimistic for its future addition.

#### Multi-Room Audio Enhancements

The second upgrade emphasizes multi-room audio features. HomePod users who own multiple devices can now experience synchronized music playback across various rooms. Previously, this capability was confined to Apple Music, but the updated version extends the voice command functionality to all AirPlay streams. For example, users can now instruct their HomePod to play music in different rooms while streaming from services like Spotify.

Here are several voice commands that can be employed for controlling multi-room audio:

– “Play music in the living room.”
– “Play music in the living room and the kitchen.”
– “Play music everywhere.”
– “Add the kitchen.” (when music is already active)
– “Play music from the kitchen here.” (when music is ongoing in another room)
– “Move music to the