Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### Current Promotions on Apple Merchandise: An In-Depth Summary

As of now, Amazon is featuring a variety of notable reductions on different Apple items, making this a prime moment for shoppers to think about upgrading their gadgets. This article outlines some of the top offers available, including the freshly launched MacBook Neo, the M5 MacBook Pro, iPhone 16e, and more.

#### MacBook Neo Offers

Amazon has rolled out attractive pricing on the MacBook Neo, with multiple configurations available at lowered rates:

– **MacBook Neo Citrus 256GB**: $590 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Citrus 512GB**: $690 (Delivery by Friday)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 256GB**: $590 (Delivery by Friday)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 512GB**: $690 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 256GB**: $590 (Delivery by tomorrow)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 512GB**: $690 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 256GB**: $590 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 512GB**: $690 (Delivery by tomorrow)

These prices indicate a $10 reduction on each variant, making them a compelling choice for anyone seeking a new laptop.

#### M5 MacBook Pro

The cheapest M5 MacBook Pro is now up for grabs at $1,499, reflecting a $300 discount from its launch price. This model boasts a 14-inch display, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. This price matches the lowest documented on Amazon, significantly less than its initial catalog price of $1,799.

Moreover, there are price cuts on additional M5 Pro models, including:

– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro**: $249 off
– **48GB M5 Pro MacBook Pro**: $300 off

These offers present fantastic value for anyone aiming to invest in high-performance laptops.

#### iPhone 16e Discount

For those in search of a cost-effective smartphone, Amazon has a promotion on the **iPhone 16e**, starting at **$449**. This refurbished model features 256GB of storage and is sold directly by Amazon, guaranteeing quality and dependability. The iPhone 16e is a great option for casual users or as a secondary phone.

#### iPad Pro Magic Keyboard

Apple’s **13-inch iPad Pro Magic Keyboard** is also discounted, with a 25% reduction lowering the price to **$262.50**. This keyboard is compatible with both M4 and M5 iPad Pro models and is recognized for its stylish design and functionality, making it a valuable investment for iPad owners.

#### Apple Watch Series 11

The **Apple Watch Series 11** is experiencing a price cut as well, with the 46mm GPS + Cell model priced at **$399**, a decrease of $130. This offer stands as one of the best prices noted for this model, representing a fantastic opportunity for those looking to buy a smartwatch.

#### Accessories and Charging Offers

In addition to the aforementioned items, Amazon is offering the **Apple iPhone Air MagSafe Battery** at a notable discount, now available for **$59.99**, nearly 40% off its standard price. This accessory is engineered to enhance the iPhone Air’s sleek look while extending battery life.

### Conclusion

With these considerable discounts on various Apple merchandise, now is an ideal time for consumers to contemplate making a purchase. Whether you’re searching for a new laptop, smartphone, tablet accessory, or smartwatch, these deals offer exceptional value and quality from a trusted vendor.

# iPhone 18 Pro: New Features That May Encourage Upgrades

The iPhone 18 Pro is scheduled for release this fall, featuring a range of thrilling attributes that may persuade users to upgrade. Here are three significant enhancements that are stirring excitement among Apple fans.

## 1. Enhanced Camera Features

Mark Gurman reports that the iPhone 18 Pro will incorporate “some of the most substantial camera hardware enhancements in the history of the lineup.” Expected improvements consist of:

– **Adjustable Aperture Main Camera**: This capability will permit users to modify the depth of field, accommodating different photography techniques. Users can opt for a shallow depth of field to isolate subjects, a medium depth for recognizable backgrounds, or a deep depth for capturing everything in focus.

– **Telephoto Camera with a Broader Aperture**: This upgrade will enhance low-light performance, particularly with the iPhone’s 4x and 8x zoom functionalities.

– **Revamped Camera Control Button**: This alteration aims to enhance user experience by making it more intuitive.

## 2. Unmatched Battery Life

The iPhone 18 Pro is projected to offer the greatest battery life ever seen in an iPhone, due to numerous enhancements:

– **Bigger Battery**: A physically larger battery will deliver increased power.

– **A20 Pro Chip**: This newly developed chip, constructed on a 2nm process, is optimized for improved efficiency.

– **C2 Modem**: Apple’s latest modem is expected to be more energy-efficient than its Qualcomm predecessor.

These upgrades collectively promise to significantly extend battery life, making the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max the most long-lasting models to date.

## 3. Design Enhancements, Featuring New Premium Color

Although the iPhone 18 Pro will likely maintain a similar look to its predecessor, it will include several noteworthy design updates:

– **New Premium Color**: Following the success of the Cosmic Orange finish, a new color is anticipated, possibly a mix of burgundy, coffee, and deep purple, or referred to as deep red or dark cherry.

– **Color-Matched Back Glass**: The back glass will be designed to closely align with the aluminum frame, creating a unified appearance.

– **Reduced Dynamic Island Size**: The Dynamic Island is anticipated to decrease by approximately 35%, offering more usable screen real estate.

These design modifications, alongside the expected camera and battery enhancements, position the iPhone 18 Pro as an attractive upgrade option for Apple users.

**Harrison Ford Confirms Production for Shrinking Season 4 Kicks Off Soon**

The beloved Apple TV series *Shrinking* has just wrapped its third season, but viewers can anticipate more episodes sooner than anticipated. Harrison Ford, one of the lead actors, declared that production for the fourth season is set to begin next week, hinting at a possible premiere in early 2027.

### The Evolution of Television Production

In the age of streaming services, the wait for new seasons can often feel extended compared to traditional broadcast television, where programs usually returned at the same time each year with more episodes. Streaming platforms frequently offer fewer episodes per season, typically between 6 and 10, which can prolong the duration between seasons.

Nevertheless, *Shrinking* appears to be breaking this pattern. Ford indicated that the new season will feature 12 episodes, and considering the show’s minimal dependence on special effects, the post-production phase is anticipated to be quite swift. This efficiency boosts the chances of an early 2027 debut.

### Comparisons with Other Apple TV Series

Apple TV has demonstrated a commitment to shortening the intervals between seasons for its key shows. Another series, *Your Friends & Neighbors*, successfully returned for a new season within a year. This approach may suggest that Apple executives are eager to sustain viewer interest by reducing wait times for popular series.

Conversely, other programs like *Severance* have faced more extended breaks, with its second season debuting in early 2025, a year following *Shrinking*’s third season, and a third season not anticipated until mid-to-late 2027.

### Conclusion

As excitement grows for *Shrinking* Season 4, fans can find solace in knowing that fresh episodes are on the horizon. With Harrison Ford’s confirmation of filming commencing soon, the series is poised to continue its captivating storytelling and character arcs, likely returning to screens in early 2027.

For those looking to catch up on *Shrinking*, Apple TV is available for $12.99 a month, with opportunities for savings through the Apple One bundle.

### Leading Three US Carrier Rivals Join Forces for Satellite-Enhanced Cellular Coverage

The leading three mobile service carriers in the United States—AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile—are joining efforts to address the challenge of coverage gaps through a new collaborative initiative that will employ satellite technology. This project is designed to improve cellular services, especially in rural and underserved regions, although detailed information regarding the initiative is still limited.

AT&T has indicated that this joint venture (JV) will “accelerate American leadership in next-generation direct-to-device (D2D) communications” by utilizing satellite technology to fill current coverage voids. The partnership is projected to increase customer options by integrating Internet Protocol (IP) and terrestrial spectrum, thereby establishing industry standards that promote a more seamless experience for both customers and satellite service providers.

The main objective of this initiative is to enhance connectivity in rural and less-served areas of the nation. However, it should be noted that the three companies have not yet reached a finalized agreement to collaborate. The press release highlights that the joint venture is still contingent on the negotiation of definitive agreements and the satisfaction of typical closing conditions.

Furthermore, the announcement specifies that existing agreements between carriers and satellites will not be impacted by this new partnership. For additional information, the full announcement can be viewed [here](https://about.att.com/story/2026/new-joint-venture.html).

In related news, T-Mobile has made progress in satellite connectivity by collaborating with SpaceX to provide Starlink-powered T-Satellite service, which is also accessible to AT&T and Verizon customers. Starlink offers direct-to-cell service, broadening the options for customers in search of dependable connectivity.

Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently authorized a notable $40 billion sale of EchoStar spectrum to AT&T and SpaceX, further cementing the importance of satellite technology in improving cellular coverage throughout the United States.

### The iPhone 17 Pro: Pioneering Smartphone Charging Speeds

Recent evaluations by CNET across 33 contemporary smartphones have shown that the iPhone 17 Pro emerges as the fastest charging device overall, integrating both wired and wireless charging speeds. This evaluation underscores Apple’s ongoing innovation and accuracy in the realm of smartphone technology.

#### Charging Speed Rankings

In the detailed analysis, the iPhone 17 Pro attained the top average charging speed when assessing both wired and wireless charging durations. This recognition places it ahead of rivals from prominent brands such as Samsung, Google, and Motorola. The testing approach involved measuring how much battery each phone could secure in a 30-minute window from a low charge state of 10%.

#### Wired Charging Performance

Regarding wired charging, the iPhone 17 Pro captured the second place. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra took the lead, achieving an impressive 76% charge in just 30 minutes. The iPhone 17 Pro, along with Motorola’s Moto G Stylus (2025), both realized a 74% enhancement in battery capacity within the same timeframe. Other significant mentions include the OnePlus 15 at 72% and the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, each at 69%.

#### Wireless Charging Superiority

Apple’s lead is even more evident in the wireless charging sector, where the iPhone 17 Pro garnered the distinction of the fastest charging smartphone. In the wireless charging trial, it accumulated 55% charge in 30 minutes. Following closely was the iPhone 17 Pro Max with 53%, and the iPhone 17 at 49%. The iPhone Air also made it into the rankings with 47%, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra completed the top five with 39%.

The effectiveness of Apple’s MagSafe technology is considered a key contributor to its exceptional wireless charging capabilities. MagSafe ensures that the devices are accurately aligned with the charging coils, optimizing the charging process. While competitors have the option to use the same Qi2 technology, Apple’s execution seems to retain a unique edge.

#### Optimal Charging Setup

To obtain the best charging outcomes with the iPhone 17 Pro, users are recommended to use a power adapter rated at 30W or higher, paired with a MagSafe charger that facilitates fast charging functionalities. This combination guarantees that users can fully leverage the device’s rapid charging attributes.

### Conclusion

The acknowledgment of the iPhone 17 Pro as the fastest charging smartphone highlights Apple’s dedication to improving user experience through cutting-edge technology. With its remarkable performance in both wired and wireless charging domains, the iPhone 17 Pro establishes a lofty benchmark for competitors in the smartphone landscape.

### Apple’s Liquid Glass Design in iOS 26: A Distinguished Acknowledgment

Apple has recently been celebrated with several awards for its groundbreaking Liquid Glass design showcased in iOS 26. This acknowledgment emphasizes the company’s dedication to excellence in user experience and design aesthetics.

#### Liquid Glass Celebrated at ADC Awards

The Art Directors Club (ADC) Annual Awards has honored iOS 26’s Liquid Glass design with four prestigious awards, including a Gold Cube in the Interactive / UX / UI category. This recognition showcases the outstanding artistry and craftsmanship that Apple has incorporated into its mobile operating system.

In addition to the Gold Cube, Apple garnered a Silver Cube for Experiential Design / Digital Experiences, alongside Bronze Cubes for Experiential Design / Consumer Experience and Innovation. These awards reflect the diverse approach Apple has embraced in enhancing user interaction and experience through its design philosophy.

#### About the Art Directors Club

The ADC boasts a rich legacy, being the longest continuously running industry award event globally, founded in 1921. It honors excellence across a range of design fields, including advertising, digital media, product design, and beyond. The ADC’s commitment to acknowledging exceptional artistry and craftsmanship has established it as a prestigious platform for designers around the globe.

#### Future of Liquid Glass

While iOS 27 is anticipated to bring some updates to the Liquid Glass design, significant changes are not expected. This stability indicates that Apple is confident in the course it has taken with its design overhaul, which has garnered positive responses from both users and industry professionals.

As Apple continues to innovate, the Liquid Glass design serves as a testament to the company’s commitment to crafting visually impressive and user-friendly interfaces. The recognition from the ADC further strengthens Apple’s standing as a leader in design excellence.

#### Conclusion

With the honors received for the Liquid Glass design, Apple not only enhances its reputation for superior design but also paves the way for future advancements in its iOS platform. As the design progresses, it will be fascinating to observe how Apple continues to expand the limits of user experience and aesthetic allure.

### Elevate Your Drive with These Two CarPlay Audio Applications

As Apple keeps improving the CarPlay experience, iOS 26 rolls out thrilling new features like widgets and enhanced Music and Messages apps. Moreover, the platform frequently incorporates new third-party applications that further enhance the in-car experience. This week, two groundbreaking audio applications have launched for CarPlay, ideal for your upcoming summer road adventures.

#### Suno: AI Music Creation at Your Fingertips

First on the list is [Suno](https://apps.apple.com/app/id6480136315), now fully compatible with Apple CarPlay. Suno is an advanced AI music creation app enabling users to produce original tracks without any previous musical training, merely by using tailored text prompts.

With the fresh CarPlay integration, users can seamlessly access and listen to their generated music straight from their vehicle’s interface. The Suno CarPlay app comprises two primary sections: **Library** and **Explore**.

– **Library**: This part lets you play tracks from your personal library, including My Songs, Playlists, and Liked Songs.
– **Explore**: In this section, you can find enjoyable playlists and tracks created by fellow Suno users.

#### Zeno Radio: A Universe of Streaming Audio

The second app launching on CarPlay is [Zeno Radio](https://apps.apple.com/app/id1207197757). This application provides a wide array of streaming traditional radio stations and podcasts.

Zeno Radio boasts an extensive selection of content, such as:

– Children’s programming
– College and university stations
– Comedy shows
– Music channels
– News and talk radio
– Religious broadcasts

Both Suno and Zeno Radio are now accessible for Apple CarPlay, broadening your audio choices while traveling. For additional CarPlay applications, feel free to browse our continuously updated collection [here](https://9to5mac.com/best-carplay-apps/).

With these new offerings, your commute has the potential to become a more enjoyable and tailored experience.

# The Surge of iPhone Robbery: An Escalating Crisis

In recent times, a concerning pattern has surfaced in metropolitan regions: the pilfering of iPhones by individuals utilizing scooters and electric bicycles. This technique of thievery has become more widespread, enabling robbers to snatch gadgets from oblivious owners as they stroll along the sidewalk. The temptation of unlocked iPhones, which can command considerably higher prices in the black market, has rendered this crime particularly attractive for criminals.

## Large-Scale Phone Theft

Reports suggest that the issue of phone larceny via scooters and electric bikes has escalated to an “industrial scale.” A significant enforcement operation by the Metropolitan Police in London led to the detention of 230 suspects and the retrieval of more than a thousand stolen phones in merely one week. Initially, concerns for safety caused law enforcement to refrain from pursuing thieves on bicycles, but this approach has now changed, permitting officers to use “tactical contact” to apprehend offenders.

## The Worth of Unlocked iPhones

Unlocked iPhones can be valued at up to $800 more than their locked versions. As per a report by Wired, the premium associated with unlocked devices arises from their capacity to grant access to sensitive information and financial accounts. Despite the existence of security features such as Face ID and passcodes, criminals frequently resort to phishing methods to infiltrate victims’ accounts.

Will Lyne, the head of economic and cybercrime at the Metropolitan Police, underscores that phone thieves seek not just the devices themselves but also the personal data and financial entry they facilitate. In one instance, a group of four men was discovered to have dealt with over 5,000 stolen phones and used them to access financial accounts.

Dan Guido, CEO of the cybersecurity firm Trail of Bits, points out that a locked phone may only be valued between $50 and $200, but once unlocked, its worth can escalate to between $500 and $1,000. This stark contrast in value drives thieves to focus on unlocked devices.

## Phishing: A Resource for Criminals

The theft of iPhones is frequently followed by complex phishing schemes. Victims might receive communications that imitate legitimate services, such as the Apple Find My page, soliciting their phone’s passcode. If a victim falls victim to this deceit, it allows the thief to eliminate the Activation Lock and sell the device as fully operational.

The illicit trade of stolen iPhones is further supported by sophisticated phishing software available on a pay-per-use basis. Tools known as “Find My iPhone Off” can be used to access accounts, while scripts and AI voice calling software are utilized to conduct phishing activities. Researchers have uncovered software like iRealm, which produces phishing links and pages that closely mimic Apple services, making it simpler for thieves to trick victims.

Many of these phishing services are promoted via Telegram channels, leading some platforms to take measures by eliminating groups that facilitate such illegal actions.

## Conclusion

The increase in iPhone thefts via scooters and e-bikes presents a considerable challenge for law enforcement and consumers alike. As the allure of unlocked devices continues to entrap criminals, it is essential for individuals to stay alert and adopt necessary measures to safeguard their gadgets and personal data. Awareness of the strategies employed by thieves and the significance of securing devices can assist in alleviating the dangers connected with this escalating crisis.

**Mandatory Security Update for ChatGPT Desktop Application on Mac**

For users of the ChatGPT desktop application on Mac, it is vital to note an impending necessary update that will occur between now and June 12. This update is in response to a security incident impacting two devices owned by OpenAI employees.

### Background of the Security Concern

The security issue stems from a breach of TanStack, a commonly used open-source library, linked to a larger software supply chain attack referred to as Mini Shai-Hulud. OpenAI has assured that although the attack affected two employee devices, there is no indication that user data was compromised or that OpenAI’s systems were breached.

In their official communication, OpenAI highlighted their prompt action regarding the incident, which involved collaboration with a third-party digital forensics and incident response agency. They observed that the malware demonstrated actions typical of unauthorized access and credential theft activities within a limited range of internal source code repositories.

### Consequences of the Breach

The main concern arising from this breach pertains to the code’s capability to sign certificates for OpenAI products. As a precautionary step, OpenAI will revoke current certificates and prevent the execution of applications that were signed with these compromised certificates. Consequently, a mandatory update of the ChatGPT desktop app will be required for Mac users.

### User Instructions

OpenAI has indicated that further instructions will be shared with Mac users regarding the update procedure. At this moment, users do not need to take any immediate steps but should be ready to update the app when prompted.

It’s essential to understand that users of the ChatGPT app on iOS or Windows systems are not impacted by this issue and do not need to take any action.

### Summary

To conclude, if you are utilizing the ChatGPT desktop app on Mac, remain vigilant for an update notification prior to June 12. This update is crucial for preserving the security and integrity of the application following the recent security breach. Keep yourself informed and ensure your app is updated promptly to prevent any service interruptions.

Spotify is making noteworthy progress in the realm of video podcasting, especially with its recent decision to implement Apple’s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology. This initiative follows Apple’s latest upgrades to its video podcast capabilities, which were introduced earlier this year, enabling enhanced delivery and viewing of video content on its platform.

### Adopting Apple’s HLS Technology

Apple’s enhancements to its podcasting service incorporated HLS technology, which improves the streaming quality and effectiveness of video podcasts. This upgrade has been rolled out on various Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and the web, with plans for further integration into macOS and Apple TV in the upcoming future.

In response, Spotify has declared its intentions to integrate Apple’s HLS technology into its own video podcast offerings. This integration will allow creators to distribute their video podcasts effortlessly across both Spotify and Apple Podcasts without the need to modify their current setups. Spotify’s initiative seeks to promote a more platform-neutral approach to video distribution, enabling creators to engage with larger audiences.

### Monetization and Distribution Insights

Spotify has also disclosed plans to facilitate monetization for video content shared on Apple Podcasts. This implies that creators will not have to make a choice between growing their audience and earning revenue from their content. The company is collaborating closely with Apple to finalize the integration and will share updates on the timeline for this feature.

Additionally, Spotify has clarified the distinctions in distribution methods between its service and others. To capitalize on Spotify’s unique streaming capabilities, content must be directly uploaded to Spotify instead of using conventional methods like RSS feeds. This method allows creators to take advantage of Spotify’s advanced tools for monetization based on user engagement and up-to-the-minute analytics while retaining the option to distribute their content via RSS elsewhere.

### Growth of Video Support

Beyond incorporating Apple’s HLS technology, Spotify is improving its video podcast functionalities by partnering with prominent podcast hosting providers. Companies such as Libsyn, Podigee, Audioboom, Audiomeans, and Podspace are now connected with Spotify’s Distribution API, enabling creators utilizing these platforms to distribute video content directly to Spotify and monetize qualifying content through the Spotify Partner Program. Upcoming updates will bring additional monetization opportunities, including direct sales.

### Closing Thoughts

Spotify’s pledge to support Apple’s refined video podcast technology represents a positive development for both listeners and creators within the podcasting community. By making the distribution and monetization of video podcasts easier, Spotify is establishing itself as a frontrunner in the changing podcasting landscape. As these updates are implemented, the potential for creators to reach larger audiences while maximizing revenue prospects will likely reshape the podcasting experience for many.