Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### Apple Product Promotions: Unmatched Savings on iPads, MacBooks, and iPhones

As 2026 progresses, shoppers are experiencing incredible reductions in prices on an array of Apple products, including the M5 iPad Pro, M4 MacBook Air, and iPhone 15 Pro. These promotions offer a fantastic chance for individuals seeking to upgrade their gadgets without overspending.

#### Apple M5 iPad Pro Variants at Historical Lows

The new M5 iPad Pro series has undergone considerable price cuts, with the 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB versions now offered at almost $200 off their standard prices. The 11-inch M5 iPad Pro featuring 512GB of storage is currently listed at **$999.99**, reduced from its normal price of **$1,199**. This indicates a **$199** discount and represents the lowest price ever noted for this variant.

For those desiring even greater savings, the 256GB variant is also on sale at a **$199** discount for the first time, making it a compelling choice for cost-conscious buyers.

#### Unique Offer on the 1TB Midnight M4 MacBook Air

Alongside the iPad bargains, a unique chance has arisen for the 1TB Midnight M4 MacBook Air, now priced at **$1,199**, down from **$1,399**. This **$200** decrease is particularly significant as discounted 1TB models are rare. The unit comes with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB internal SSD, making it an excellent pick for users requiring substantial storage.

While Amazon has different configurations at lower costs, they presently lack 1TB options, making this B&H offer exceptional for those needing more storage capacity.

#### Major Price Cuts on iPhone 15 Pro

For consumers looking to acquire a new smartphone, the iPhone 15 Pro is currently available with an impressive **$460** off its initial price, with the 128GB variant priced at **$539**. This offer is part of Amazon’s Renewed Premium initiative, which provides refurbished gadgets with a one-year warranty.

In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro are considerably more expensive, with the 16 Pro starting at **$719** and the 17 Pro at **$1,099**. This positions the iPhone 15 Pro as an appealing selection for those in search of a contemporary device at a reduced price.

#### Discounts on Accessories and Charging Solutions

In addition to the prominent product discounts, a variety of accessories and charging solutions are also available at lowered prices. Notably, the official Apple 40W Dynamic Power Adapter is currently listed at **$27**, serving as an economical charging option for Apple device users.

#### Refurbished Apple Watch Ultra Offers

For fans of smartwatches, refurbished Apple Watch Ultra units are obtainable at significant markdowns, with prices dropping by as much as **$499** from original costs. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is presently available for **$399.99**, while the original Ultra model can be purchased for **$299.99** in Grade A refurbished condition. These units have been tested to guarantee functionality and minor cosmetic blemishes, offering a viable choice for users seeking premium wearables at reduced prices.

### Conclusion

With these unmatched savings on Apple products, 2026 is set to be a remarkable year for consumers looking to acquire or upgrade their devices. From the M5 iPad Pro to the M4 MacBook Air and the iPhone 15 Pro, plenty of opportunities exist to save substantially on high-caliber technology. Whether you’re in pursuit of a tablet, laptop, smartphone, or smartwatch, now is the moment to seize these promotions.

**Perplexity’s Comet: The AI-Enhanced Browser for iPhone Set to Debut**

Last summer, Perplexity stirred the tech community by introducing Comet, one of the pioneering AI-centric web browsers, exclusively for Mac users. Following this initial achievement, the company is now gearing up to unveil the long-anticipated iOS version of Comet, tailored specifically for iPhone users. The app is currently up for pre-order in the App Store and is expected to go live on March 11.

### Features of Comet for iPhone

The iPhone edition of Comet aims to offer a smooth browsing experience, akin to its Mac version. It will harness Perplexity’s cutting-edge AI capabilities to enhance search and chat features. As stated in the App Store description, Comet is built to function as a personal assistant and thinking ally, striving to improve productivity and optimize workflows.

Key features emphasized in the pre-order announcement include:

– **Integrated AI Search**: Users can look forward to a robust search experience that combines AI to deliver immediate context and pertinent information across different websites.
– **Automation**: The browser will allow users to summarize content, shop, set appointments, and perform research directly within the browser environment.
– **Tailored Experience**: Comet adjusts to individual user behaviors, learning how they think and operate to keep them organized and efficient. This customization ensures that users never misplace their tabs or sources of inspiration.

### Availability and Compatibility

Currently, Comet is accessible for Mac, Windows, and Android platforms. However, there is no indication of an iPad version being launched alongside the iPhone app in March. Users interested in the iPhone version can pre-order it now, guaranteeing that it will automatically download to their devices upon its launch.

### Conclusion

Perplexity’s Comet for iPhone signifies a notable advancement in the incorporation of AI technology within web browsing. By concentrating on user experience and productivity, it seeks to revolutionize how individuals engage with the web. As the launch date nears, many are excited to observe how Comet will fare in the competitive arena of mobile browsers.

### Improvements in Subtitles and Captions with iOS 26.4

The rising popularity of subtitles and captions in television series and films showcases an increasing need for accessibility and inclusiveness, particularly with the expansion of foreign language material and the difficulties of audio clarity in certain productions. Acknowledging this shift, Apple has rolled out notable enhancements to the subtitle experience in its built-in video player with the launch of iOS 26.4 for iPhone and iPad, alongside a comparable update for Apple TV via tvOS 26.4.

#### Revamped Subtitles Menu Design

A key highlight of the iOS 26.4 upgrade is the reimagined Subtitles menu within the built-in video player. In the past, users were restricted to turning subtitles on or off and choosing their desired language. The latest update presents a specific section for styling subtitles, enabling users to personalize their viewing experience in real-time while consuming content.

#### Personalization Options

This update brings various preset style choices for subtitles, including:
– **Classic**
– **Large Text**
– **Outline Text**
– **Transparent Background**

Besides these options, users now have the ability to craft custom styles by selecting their favorite font, size, and color. This adaptability not only boosts the visual charm of subtitles but also accommodates personal preferences and requirements, facilitating greater viewer engagement with the content.

#### Accessibility and Ease of Use

Prior to this update, these styling options were hidden within the Accessibility Settings, making them harder to access during typical viewing. With the new changes, users can conveniently modify subtitle styles on demand, raising awareness of the feature and offering a more user-friendly method to customize the viewing experience without disrupting the narrative flow of the show or film.

#### Cross-Platform Compatibility

The advancements made in iOS 26.4 are not confined to the native video player; they also apply to applications like Apple TV and Safari. Any third-party app that uses the native player will automatically receive these enhancements, ensuring a uniform experience across multiple platforms.

#### Launch Timeline

Currently, iOS 26.4 is in developer beta, with a public rollout expected in March or April. While Apple has yet to confirm a definitive schedule, the forthcoming update is set to greatly improve how users engage with subtitles and captions, making content more accessible and pleasurable for all.

To summarize, the upgrades in subtitle and caption capabilities in iOS 26.4 signify a meaningful advancement in enriching the viewing experience. By emphasizing personalization and accessibility, Apple is serving a varied audience and responding to the escalating demand for inclusive media consumption.

**The TP-Link Router Security Warning: An Increasing Issue in the US**

Branded versions of TP-Link routers are provided to US consumers by more than 300 Internet Service Providers (ISPs), establishing them as the most commonly used Wi-Fi routers nationwide, present in millions of residences. This widespread use raises considerable security issues, especially after security experts at Microsoft uncovered that a hacking collective from China was taking advantage of vulnerabilities in these devices to carry out cyber offenses within the US.

### The TP-Link Router Security Warning

TP-Link routers account for roughly 65% of the US market. Numerous users may not even be aware they possess one in their household, as these routers frequently feature ISP branding. The concerning discoveries by security researchers suggested that a Chinese hacking organization was employing these routers as part of a broader network of compromised devices, believed to be functioning on behalf of the Chinese government.

A study released by Microsoft indicated that this hacking organization operated an extensive network primarily made up of TP-Link routers. This network has been utilized by various Chinese groups to target Western entities, including think tanks, government bodies, NGOs, and defense contractors. There were worries that these devices might have been sold at a loss to more effectively infiltrate the US market.

In light of these revelations, investigations were initiated by the Departments of Commerce, Defense, and Justice, leading to expectations that the devices would be prohibited from sale within the US. However, political factors reportedly caused the White House to delay these plans before a summit between former President Trump and China’s Xi Jinping.

### Texas Continues the Battle

In spite of the federal government’s lack of action, Texas has taken a position against TP-Link. The state’s Attorney General, Ken Paxton, declared a lawsuit against the router manufacturer for allegedly deceiving consumers regarding the security of its offerings and permitting access to American devices by Chinese hacking collectives. The inquiry into TP-Link commenced in October 2025, and in January of the following year, Texas Governor Greg Abbott forbade state employees from using TP-Link products.

TP-Link has refuted these accusations, emphasizing that the company is now US-owned and its products are assembled in Vietnam. Nevertheless, Texas officials contend that since many components are sourced from China, suppliers might be compelled to adhere to requests from Chinese intelligence agencies, potentially jeopardizing the security of the devices.

### Conclusion

The scenario revolving around TP-Link routers underscores significant apprehensions about cybersecurity and national security in the US. While some users might persist in depending on these devices because of their extensive availability, the potential dangers linked with their use cannot be ignored. For those seeking alternatives, substituting a TP-Link router with another model may offer a more secure solution.

**Apple Unveils Video Playback in CarPlay with iOS 26.4**

With the latest beta version of iOS 26.4, Apple is poised to officially roll out video playback through CarPlay, a feature that has been eagerly awaited by users. This update signifies a major change in how drivers can engage with media while driving, although it is subject to certain conditions.

### Key Features and Conditions

Apple first revealed the addition of video playback functionality in CarPlay at the developer conference in June 2025. The company specified that this feature would be accessible only when the vehicle is not in motion, stressing safety as a key factor. Automobile manufacturers will also need to agree to support this capability, ensuring it fits within their vehicle designs and safety standards.

### Developer Insights

The arrival of the iOS 26.4 beta has provided developers with the opportunity to delve into the new features of CarPlay. Developer Thomas Dye has demonstrated a simulation of how the TV app will operate within CarPlay, showcasing user interface components that have previously not been observed. This simulation reveals a video-focused CarPlay app, suggesting a user-friendly layout that could enhance the in-car entertainment experience.

### User Interface Enhancements

Dye’s examination shows that the TV app will be tailored for CarPlay, ensuring a smooth transition for users wishing to view content while parked. Furthermore, a fresh user interface element has been recognized that permits users to transfer video playback between their iPhone and the CarPlay screen, boosting the adaptability of media consumption.

### Future Developments

As the beta version evolves, a new Video section is anticipated to be included in the Settings app, further underscoring Apple’s dedication to embedding video playback within the CarPlay framework. This development bodes well for drivers keen to take advantage of video features in their vehicles.

### Conclusion

The rollout of video playback in CarPlay signifies a noteworthy progress in in-car technology. With iOS 26.4 laying the groundwork for this feature, it is expected that automakers will quickly begin to adopt the necessary support. As Apple continues to enhance this capability, users can anticipate a more interactive and versatile media experience while maintaining safety as a primary concern.

Apple is facing legal action from the state of West Virginia for allegedly inadequately safeguarding against the storage and distribution of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) via its iCloud services, which encompass iMessage and Photos. The lawsuit, initiated by West Virginia’s attorney general, John “JB” McCuskey, asserts that Apple favors its privacy branding and business objectives over the safety of children, contrasting its initiatives with those of other technology firms like Google, Microsoft, and Dropbox, which have taken more proactive steps such as implementing PhotoDNA to address CSAM.

In 2021, Apple unveiled a range of initiatives designed to limit the spread of CSAM on its devices. However, a crucial component—a CSAM detection system for the Photos app—was eventually scrapped following privacy concerns highlighted by researchers. Detractors worried that this type of system could result in government overreach and unauthorized access to private user information.

Nonetheless, Apple has rolled out additional child safety features, including parental controls and a Communication Safety feature that intervenes when nudity is identified in messages, shared photos, AirDrop, and live FaceTime calls. Apple asserts that safeguarding user safety and privacy, especially for children, is fundamental to its mission.

The lawsuit highlights the ongoing conflict between privacy advocacy and the necessity for child protection in today’s digital environment. As the case progresses, further updates will be diligently observed.

Apple TV has revealed the inclusion of a new show in its March release lineup: the postponed thriller “The Hunt,” which will debut following a plagiarism inquiry.

### The Hunt is Arriving on Apple TV After a Three-Month Delay

Last November, merely two weeks ahead of the French-language thriller series “The Hunt” set to launch on Apple TV, it was unexpectedly taken off the release schedule. Unlike the also-delayed series “The Savant,” which is still listed as part of Apple’s upcoming offerings, “The Hunt” was completely removed from Apple’s press site and YouTube.

The motive behind this abrupt removal was soon disclosed. Apple and its production associate Gaumont reportedly became aware of a plagiarism allegation related to the series. Fortunately, this matter has since been resolved. According to Deadline, Gaumont issued a statement clarifying that “The Hunt’s” launch was put on hold after it was found that the project, originally presented as an original piece, was rooted in an existing work, Douglas Fairbairn’s “Shoot.” Upon this discovery, Gaumont promptly took steps to identify the rights holders and secure the necessary permissions.

“The Hunt” is now scheduled to premiere on Apple TV on **Wednesday, March 4**, three months following its initial release date.

### Plot Summary

Apple has released an official summary for the series:

Franck (Benoît Magimel) and his close friends relish their weekends spent hunting together, but one Sunday, they encounter another group of hunters who inexplicably start targeting them. When one of Franck’s friends gets shot, they strike back but narrowly escape. As they attempt to return to their everyday lives, Franck begins to sense that he and his friends are being monitored, or worse, pursued by those seeking revenge.

### Availability

Are you eager to watch “The Hunt” when it debuts on Apple TV? Apple TV is available for **$12.99 per month**, or you can subscribe at a reduced rate through the Apple One bundle.

# What’s New in iOS 26.4 Beta 1?

The latest installment of *iOS Decoded* delves into the enhancements and modifications brought by iOS 26.4 beta 1, showcasing important updates that improve user experience. Here are five notable features present in this beta release.

## Notification Forwarding

Among the most eagerly awaited functions in iOS 26.4 beta 1 is the launch of notification forwarding for third-party smartwatches and devices, particularly for users located in the EU. The configuration process is crafted to be intuitive, akin to the pairing of AirPods. Users can seamlessly link compatible Bluetooth devices, initiate notification forwarding, and choose which notifications to send. Nonetheless, this capability is presently restricted to one device at a time, meaning users cannot receive notifications on both an Apple Watch and a third-party smartwatch concurrently.

## Allow Search on iCloud.com

iOS 26.4 beta 1 brings a fresh setting that empowers users to search for Photos and iCloud Drive files directly on iCloud.com. This function necessitates users to activate search access on their trusted devices. Once set up, users can conduct searches in both the Photos and iCloud Drive areas of the iCloud Beta site, improving access to stored content.

## Migrate Data Between Browsers

With the latest update, Apple simplifies the data migration process between browsers. Users can now import or export data straight from compatible web browsers, rather than relying solely on the Files app. This feature facilitates smoother transitions between various web browsers, making it easier for users to oversee their data.

## New Ambient Music Widgets

iOS 26.4 beta 1 unveils two new ambient music widgets that enable users to play suggested or personalized playlists directly from the Home screen. Offered in small and medium dimensions, these widgets allow for one-tap playback, enhancing the ease of accessing music without having to navigate through various menus.

## More HomePad Evidence

The update also presents additional clues regarding Apple’s forthcoming HomePad smart home device. A new application called *CompanionSetup* emerges in the beta, presumably designed for pairing with the HomePad. This app also includes a new chime, indicating ongoing advancements within Apple’s smart home ecosystem.

These features are merely a snapshot of what iOS 26.4 beta 1 encompasses. For an exhaustive review of all the new updates, don’t miss the complete video walkthrough.

iOS 26.4 is filled with fresh features and modifications, including five updates for the Music app. Here’s all that’s new for Apple Music in iOS 26.4.

## #1: Playlist Playground

iOS 26.4 leverages Apple Intelligence to introduce a new Playlist Playground feature in Apple Music. When you create a new playlist in the Music app, you’ll now find the option to submit a prompt for AI to automatically generate a playlist. The Music app also offers suggested prompts to help you begin. You can always manually add or remove songs as you wish and make subsequent requests, but Playlist Playground delivers a convenient launchpad for new playlists.

## #2: Redesigned albums and playlists

Apple has revamped the design of albums and playlists to a new, fullscreen layout in iOS 26.4. Now, the artwork for an album or playlist will dictate the styling of the entire background of the track list and other user interface elements. If an album features a dominant blue hue in its artwork, a matching shade of blue will probably cover the entire screen. Complementary colors are sometimes utilized as well, like a black background when the artwork includes shades of white and gray.

Last year, Apple debuted a new Ambient Music feature for Control Center. It allows you to quickly and easily start playing music tailored to one of four moods:
– Chill
– Productivity
– Sleep
– Wellbeing

Now, in iOS 26.4, the same Ambient Music feature can be accessed through a new Home Screen widget. Small and Medium widget sizes are available.

## #4: Add songs to several playlists simultaneously

iOS 26.4 allows you to effortlessly add a song to multiple playlists at once. When adding to a playlist, there’s a new selection button in the bottom-right corner. Tap it, and you’ll be able to choose several playlists at the same time. It’s a minor change, but very useful for instances when you want to quickly add to different playlists.

## #5: Concert details

Apple has integrated concert details directly into the Music app in iOS 26.4. Artist profiles in the app will now display ‘Upcoming Concerts’ when concert information is accessible. You can scroll down further to review all upcoming performances. Tap on a specific concert, and the app will provide a link to purchase tickets, along with details on the venue, start time, and more.

Which iOS 26.4 features in Apple Music are your favorites? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

Apple Music is priced at $10.99/month, or you can subscribe to it as part of the Apple One bundle.

In recent SEC filings submitted this week, Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway has once again reduced its investment in Apple. Concurrently, the firm revealed a new $350 million investment in the New York Times.

These transactions occurred in the last quarter of 2025, which also marked the conclusion of Buffett’s tenure at Berkshire. At 95, Buffett announced his retirement last year. As of January 1, Greg Abel has taken over as CEO of Berkshire.

“There’s never been anyone like Warren, and many individuals, myself included, have drawn inspiration from his insight,” Tim Cook stated when Buffett declared his retirement plans. “Knowing him has been one of the greatest honors of my life. And there’s no doubt that Warren is leaving Berkshire in capable hands with Greg.”

As pointed out by Reuters, Berkshire divested 4% of its Apple shares during Q4 2025. Nevertheless, Apple remains Berkshire’s largest investment at $62 billion. “Berkshire’s filing does not specify whether the investments were made under the direction of Buffett, Abel, or portfolio manager Ted Weschler,” the report indicates.

Berkshire commenced its acquisition of Apple stock in 2016. At its zenith in 2023, Berkshire Hathaway held over 915 million shares of Apple, comprising more than 50% of the firm’s portfolio and valued at approximately $174 billion.

Buffett has diminished his holdings on several occasions over the past few years as part of a broader strategy to accumulate cash.

In an interview last year, Buffett quipped that “Tim Cook has generated more profits for Berkshire than I’ve ever done.”

Aside from decreasing its Apple investment, Berkshire reentered the newspaper sector and purchased 5.07 million shares of the New York Times. It also lowered its position in Amazon.