Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**tvOS 26.4: Upgrades and the New “Continuous Audio Connection” Option**

Apple’s latest tvOS update, version 26.4, has introduced considerable modifications, notably the elimination of the iTunes Movies and TV Shows applications from the Apple TV ecosystem. Nonetheless, one of the most prominent new features is the “Continuous Audio Connection” option, aimed at improving audio playback experiences for users, particularly those using Sonos speakers along with AV receivers.

### Comprehending the “Continuous Audio Connection” Option

Apple defines the “Continuous Audio Connection” option as a capability that employs a Dolby MAT (Metadata-enhanced Audio Transmission) connection. This connection is intended to deliver seamless audio playback across different formats. Although older receivers might display an Atmos connection, the original audio mixes will remain intact, allowing users to enjoy the content as it was meant to be experienced by the creators.

### Responding to User Feedback

The launch of this option seems to be a direct reaction to feedback from Apple TV users who have encountered audio problems, especially with Sonos speakers. Numerous users reported hearing popping sounds or facing low volume levels while playing specific channels, particularly with 5.1-channel content.

Feedback from the Sonos subreddit suggests that activating the “Continuous Audio Connection” option has fixed these problems for many users. One user mentioned, “I can confirm that this function resolved my issues with 5.1 multichannel PCM content being significantly quieter than Atmos content. My 5.1 content sounds just as impressive as Atmos now.” Another user supported this view, emphasizing the enhancement in audio quality.

Previously, users had to turn off eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) and permit their televisions to recode audio to Dolby Digital Plus or enforce Dolby Digital within the Apple TV settings to alleviate these audio concerns. With the new option, these workarounds are no longer required.

### Possible New Challenges

In spite of the advantages, some users have indicated that the “Continuous Audio Connection” option might introduce new difficulties, particularly with stereo content. Conversations in various forums suggest that while the option fixes problems related to multichannel audio, it could complicate playback of stereo audio formats.

### Final Thoughts

To sum up, the “Continuous Audio Connection” option in tvOS 26.4 provides a promising remedy for users facing audio issues with Sonos speakers and Apple TV. While it has effectively tackled many complaints regarding 5.1-channel content, it may also result in new challenges for stereo playback. As the update is now available to developer and public beta users, further adjustments are anticipated as Apple continues to collect feedback throughout the testing phase.

**iOS 27: Expected Interface Adjustments and Fresh Design Leadership**

iOS 27 is poised to bring modifications to the iPhone’s interface, though these alterations are unlikely to be as comprehensive as those introduced in iOS 26. As reported by Mark Gurman’s *Power On* newsletter, Apple is focusing on artificial intelligence and bug resolutions in this forthcoming release, while also planning some interface adjustments.

### Interface Adjustments in iOS 27

Gurman indicates that while major UI revisions similar to last year’s Liquid Glass debut are not expected, the occurrence of any interface alterations is significant. Traditionally, iOS experiences subtle visual and functional updates each year, and iOS 27 will follow suit. Notably, these modifications will represent the first significant changes since a major shift in Apple’s design leadership.

### A New Chapter in Design Leadership

In December, Alan Dye, Apple’s previous VP of Human Interface Design, left for Meta, resulting in the promotion of Steve Lemay, a 26-year Apple veteran, to take his place. CEO Tim Cook commended Lemay’s vast expertise and his impact on Apple’s design philosophy. This leadership change has sparked enthusiasm within the company, and iOS 27 will be the inaugural platform to highlight Lemay’s influence.

### User Experience Improvements

As an advocate of Liquid Glass, users are anticipating specific enhancements in iOS 27. For example, issues like tab bars vanishing during scrolling and playback controls in Music and Podcasts interfering with critical functions are areas where improvements could greatly enhance user experience.

### Conclusion

The interface modifications in iOS 27 are likely to embody Steve Lemay’s design priorities and style, setting them apart from his predecessor’s vision. As excitement grows for the new updates, users are urged to contribute their desired changes for Liquid Glass and other interface features in the comments. The upcoming release is set to be an exhilarating phase in Apple’s design journey.

### Toyota Introducing Apple Car Key Functionality in Wallet App

Apple has been actively enhancing the features of its Wallet app, especially with the addition of car keys. Recently, Toyota has become one of the automakers embracing this functionality, representing a significant milestone for both Apple users and Toyota drivers.

#### Growth of Apple Car Key Functionality

In the last year, Apple Wallet and CarPlay have undergone numerous updates, with Apple hinting at further enhancements. At the previous Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple revealed that 13 new automotive brands would soon incorporate car keys into the Wallet app. However, Toyota, a prominent name in the car industry, was not included in that initial announcement.

Recent information confirms that Toyota is launching support for Apple car keys on select models. An owner of a 2026 RAV4 posted on Reddit, revealing that this feature is now accessible for their vehicle. This news comes after a December report stating that Toyota had been added to Apple’s backend system of car brands eligible for car key functionality.

#### Information on Support

Although it’s still uncertain how many Toyota vehicles will feature car key functionality, the inclusion of the 2026 RAV4 as a compatible option indicates that additional models may soon be available. It is expected that an official list outlining which specific models and production years will receive support will be issued by either Apple or Toyota shortly.

For those curious about the current selection of vehicles with car key functionality, an extensive guide is available on the internet.

#### Conclusion

The incorporation of Apple car keys into Toyota vehicles signifies a major leap forward in automotive innovation, improving convenience for motorists. As additional automakers embrace this capability, it is anticipated to reshape the way users engage with their cars, allowing them to unlock and start their vehicles directly from their iPhones. Toyota owners are advised to verify their vehicle’s compatibility and share their insights as this feature becomes more widely available.

**YouTube Outage: Essential Information**

YouTube is presently undergoing a major outage impacting users on multiple platforms. Reports of difficulties started emerging just after 8 p.m. PT (5 p.m. ET), with numerous users unable to access the site or facing sluggish performance.

### Extent of the Outage

As per outage tracker Downdetector, the issues mainly affect the YouTube homepage and subscriptions feed. Although some users can reach certain channels or videos directly, they are experiencing slower loading times and choppy video playback. The YouTube Shorts feature is also unavailable for many users, with the outage affecting both the website and mobile apps on devices like iPhones, iPads, and Android phones.

### User Feedback

Social media channels are alive with grievances from users who have been “kicked off” videos mid-broadcast. Furthermore, several users have indicated that they were logged out of their accounts in the YouTube app. The extensive scope of the outage implies that a significant number of viewers are impacted.

### Official Statement

TeamYouTube has recognized the issue through social media, mentioning, “We can confirm that we’re aware of the issue & our team is currently working on a fix. We appreciate your patience while we get this sorted.” However, Google does not provide a public status page for YouTube, creating challenges for users trying to monitor the resolution’s progress.

### Final Thoughts

As per the most recent update at 9:21 p.m. ET, YouTube seems to be gradually coming back online for the majority of users, though some issues may continue. If you are still facing difficulties, sharing your experience in the comments could assist others in grasping the severity of the outage. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds.

**Meta’s Pivotal Court Case: Consequences for Social Media and Child Protection**

This week, Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg provided testimony in a pivotal court case that investigates the effects of social media on mental health, especially concerning children and adolescents. Initiated by New Mexico, the trial alleges that Meta has neglected to safeguard younger users on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram from online threats. The lawsuit contends that Meta’s offerings have enabled the exploitation of minors and contributed to grave issues like human trafficking.

Zuckerberg’s statements disclosed that he had contacted Apple CEO Tim Cook to address the welfare of young users. This communication, which traces back to February 2018, highlights the persistent discord between the two technology leaders, mainly regarding their strategies concerning user safety and privacy. Although the specifics of their discussion remain private, it emphasizes the rising apprehension among tech executives about the effects their platforms have on at-risk groups.

The accusations leveled against Meta are serious. The lawsuit claims the company has designed a “hazardous product” that not only targets children but also facilitates their exploitation in both digital and physical realms. This legal action is part of a larger pattern of lawsuits facing Meta, reminiscent of the legal battles against tobacco companies during the 1990s, which aimed to hold them accountable for the detrimental effects of their products.

During the trial, defense lawyers probed Zuckerberg about his exchanges with Cook, highlighting the necessity of addressing the mental health epidemic linked to social media use. Zuckerberg conveyed his worries for the welfare of adolescents and children utilizing Meta’s platforms, indicating a readiness to partner with Apple on safety initiatives.

The dynamic between Meta and Apple has been fraught, particularly following privacy controversies surrounding Facebook. Cook has openly criticized Facebook’s management of user data, which has exacerbated their relationship. Notably, prior communications have shown Zuckerberg proposing that Meta should limit research into the negative impacts of its platforms, referencing Apple as a model for reducing such investigations.

A central disagreement between the two corporations is their distinct perspectives on age verification for application users. Meta asserts that the duty for age verification should rest with platform providers like Apple and Google, while Apple maintains that developers should assume responsibility for ensuring user safety on an application-by-application basis.

As this significant trial progresses, its results may have extensive repercussions for Meta, the social media sector, and the ongoing dialogue about online child safety. The case not only prompts inquiries about corporate accountability but also underscores the urgent necessity for effective strategies to shield young users from the potential hazards of social media.

**Major League Soccer (MLS) Season Launches with Apple TV Streaming**

Major League Soccer (MLS) is gearing up to launch its new season this Saturday, heralding a major shift in how supporters can watch the games. For the first time ever, each and every match will be accessible for free to Apple TV subscribers, removing the requirement for a separate MLS Season Pass subscription.

### All Matches Accessible on Apple TV

This season, MLS supporters can relish every match without any blackouts, courtesy of Apple’s collaboration with the league. Apple TV subscribers across more than 100 nations will have access not only to regular season matches but also to extra content like the Leagues Cup, Michelob ULTRA Campeones Cup, MLS All-Star Game, and the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. This all-encompassing coverage aims to enrich the viewing experience for soccer fans.

### Accessing MLS Content

Subscribers can locate all MLS-related content directly within the Apple TV app, which supports various devices including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV 4K, Vision Pro, Android, and smart TVs. The Apple TV subscription is priced at $12.99 per month, and it can also be wrapped together with other Apple services through the Apple One package.

### Additional Features and Promotions

Beyond streaming matches, Apple is enhancing MLS visibility via several other platforms:

– **Apple Music** will showcase playlists curated by teams and players.
– **Apple Maps** will feature Matchday Guides developed by MLS clubs and city guides from players.
– **Apple News** will present scores, schedules, standings, and key stories associated with MLS.
– **Apple Podcasts** will offer an MLS hub containing selected podcast episodes and collections.

For those wishing to follow scores and updates throughout the season, the Apple Sports app is deemed the optimal resource.

### Conclusion

With the upcoming MLS season and all matches available on Apple TV, fans are presented with a distinctive chance to connect with the sport like never before. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or new to soccer, this season is set to provide thrilling content and a smooth viewing experience.

WhatsApp has recently launched a highly awaited feature known as Group Message History, designed to improve the experience for new participants joining group chats. This feature tackles the frequent issue of feeling disoriented in discussions due to insufficient context from earlier messages.

### Overview of Group Message History

When a new user joins a group chat, WhatsApp now offers the ability to share recent messages with them. This may encompass between 25 to 100 of the most pertinent messages, enabling newcomers to swiftly get up to speed on vital conversations without perusing an excessive amount of information. The feature guarantees that the shared message history is visually distinct from regular messages, clearly indicating what has been sent specifically for the new member’s advantage.

### Transparency and Control

A crucial component of this feature is transparency. When message history is shared, all members of the group are notified with timestamps and sender details, ensuring that everyone is informed about what has been conveyed. This method promotes a sense of openness within the group.

Furthermore, group administrators have the option to deactivate the Group Message History feature if they choose not to share previous messages, which is particularly beneficial for sensitive discussions where privacy is paramount.

### Contextual Background

This launch follows a range of updates aimed at enhancing group chat functionalities, including member tags, text stickers, and event reminders, which were rolled out last month. These upgrades demonstrate WhatsApp’s dedication to evolving its platform based on user feedback and requirements.

### Conclusion

WhatsApp’s Group Message History feature represents a notable advancement in making group chats more user-friendly, especially for newcomers. By enabling new members to quickly access pertinent past messages while ensuring transparency and control for existing members, WhatsApp continues to enhance its messaging platform. Users are encouraged to share their opinions on this new feature, contributing to the ongoing conversation regarding improvements in group communication.

**Apple’s Upcoming Exclusive Experience on March 4: What to Anticipate**

On February 16, 2026, Apple formally revealed a “special experience” planned for March 4 at 9 a.m. ET, inviting media members to join events in New York, London, and Shanghai. This announcement has generated intrigue regarding the format and characteristics of the product launches set to occur during this time.

### Expected Format of the Event

Tech analyst John Gruber speculated that the March 4 event might not adhere to the conventional keynote structure. Instead, he suggested that Apple might favor a staggered announcement model, disseminating product details through press releases throughout the week. For example, Gruber suggested that Apple could introduce the iPhone 17e on Monday, new iPads on Tuesday, and new MacBooks on Wednesday. The “experience” could then provide a chance for media personnel to interact with the new products through hands-on demonstrations, negating the necessity for a traditional keynote presentation.

Mark Gurman from Bloomberg supported Gruber’s views, indicating that he anticipates a similar format based on his observations. He also verified that there will not be a standard keynote presentation, noting that while Apple may create brief standalone videos for select announcements, there will be no live stream available for the general public.

### Speculated Product Announcements

As the date draws nearer, anticipation surrounding the products that Apple might unveil is building. Although specific information remains confidential, several items are rumored to be forthcoming. These include:

– iPhone 17e
– New iPad variations
– Updated MacBooks

### Coverage and Anticipations

Regardless of the format and substance of the announcements, 9to5Mac will offer extensive coverage of the events from New York City. As the tech community eagerly awaits further details, it is evident that Apple is adopting a distinctive strategy for its product announcements this March.

Stay tuned for updates and insights as the event progresses, and keep watching for the latest happenings in Apple’s product offerings.

**Summary of Apple’s and Qualcomm’s Legal Dispute: Overview of ‘Double-Dipping’ Accusations and Class Action Lawsuit Withdrawal**

The legal confrontation between Qualcomm and Apple marks a pivotal episode in the technology sector, largely focusing on the licensing and pricing strategies for radio chips utilized in iPhones. Central to Apple’s claims against Qualcomm was the concept of “double-dipping,” wherein Qualcomm purportedly charged Apple twice for the identical technology.

### Qualcomm ‘Double-Dipping’ Allegations

The controversy initiated when Apple charged Qualcomm with compelling them to pay for both the chips and an additional patent license. This practice, referred to in the industry as “no license, no chips,” necessitated Apple’s acquiescence to Qualcomm’s licensing prerequisites to secure the vital modem chips for their products. Apple contended that this approach escalated iPhone prices, as Qualcomm demanded a percentage of the total selling price instead of imposing a fixed cost per chip.

Over the years, the legal conflict intensified, with Apple striving to contest Qualcomm’s commercial practices. In the end, the matter was resolved outside of court; however, the ramifications of this dispute underscored critical concerns about patent licensing and pricing methodologies within the semiconductor sector.

### Withdrawal of Independent Class Action Lawsuit

While Apple concluded its claims against Qualcomm, a separate class action lawsuit was launched in the UK. This action aimed to advocate for iPhone and Samsung users, claiming that Qualcomm’s behaviors resulted in elevated prices for smartphones and sought redress for consumers impacted by these pricing tactics.

Nevertheless, recent updates reveal that this class action lawsuit has been retracted. The British consumer advocacy group, Which?, had initiated the case on behalf of around 29 million purchasers of iPhones or Samsung devices since 2015, seeking compensation totaling approximately £480 million (close to $652 million). Qualcomm declared that the lawsuit would be withdrawn, indicating that the chances of a successful claim were low.

### Conclusion

The legal disputes between Qualcomm and Apple highlight the intricacies of technology licensing and the competitive landscape within the semiconductor industry. As Apple progresses towards creating its own tailored radio chips, the ramifications of this conflict may shape future business approaches and regulatory examination in the tech sector.

### The Upcoming Affordable MacBook

Apple’s expected affordable MacBook is scheduled to launch in the first week of March, with a special event on March 4. Although initial reports indicate that this gathering may lack a keynote presentation, it is likely to feature a range of press releases unveiling various new products, including the economical MacBook utilizing the A18 Pro chip.

At present, the least expensive MacBook available directly from Apple is the 13-inch MacBook Air, starting at $999. The new budget model is projected to considerably lower the starting price, with estimates around $699.

#### Anticipated Specifications

The new affordable MacBook is believed to include the following specifications:

– **Display**: A 12.9-inch screen, marginally smaller than the 13.6-inch display of the MacBook Air.
– **Processor**: An A18 Pro chip, differing from the M series chips utilized in higher-end variants.
– **Color Options**: Fresh vibrant colors, potentially including blue, pink, and yellow, reminiscent of the colorful designs of the iBook.
– **Pricing**: Expected starting price around $699.

There is speculation about whether Apple will provide traditional silver as an option or if the bright colors will differentiate this model from the premium MacBook Air.

### Launch Schedule

The March 4 event will reportedly not feature a live-streamed keynote. Instead, Apple is expected to unveil several new products via press releases throughout the first three days of that week, culminating in a hands-on session for selected tech journalists on Wednesday.

While Apple typically utilizes press releases for standard updates, the launch of a new affordable MacBook is viewed as important enough that it may justify a more extensive presentation. This might take the form of a pre-recorded video similar to that used during the October 2024 product announcements, which combined press releases with a focused video presentation.

### Conclusion

The introduction of the affordable MacBook signifies a strategic effort by Apple to attract a wider audience by providing a more budget-friendly option in its laptop range. As excitement builds for the March event, many are eager to see how Apple will position this new model regarding pricing, features, and marketing. The blend of a lower price point and attractive design could make this MacBook a favored option among consumers seeking quality without the premium cost.