Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

iPhone 17 Fuels 22% Surge in iPhone Sales in China During First Month, Based on Report

**Apple’s iPhone 17 Triumph in China: An In-Depth Analysis**

In the recent Q4 2025 earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook conveyed strong enthusiasm regarding the reception of the iPhone 17 series in China, stating that the company “couldn’t be more satisfied.” This perspective follows a difficult stretch of dwindling sales in the area, rendering the favorable feedback on the iPhone 17 especially important.

**Sales Metrics and Market Reaction**

Counterpoint Research has delivered insights that underscore the effect of the iPhone 17 launch. As per their analysis, nearly 80% of the devices sold to Chinese customers following the September 19 launch were from the iPhone 17 lineup. This increase in sales is remarkable, particularly in light of the fact that the overall smartphone market in China saw a 2.7% downturn year-over-year during the same period.

In the first month subsequent to the launch, iPhone sales in China grew by 22% compared to the previous year. This is a sharp contrast to the 5% drop in sales recorded after the debut of the iPhone 16 last year. Such a rebound signifies not only a revival for Apple but also an escalating consumer interest in the latest iPhone models.

**Tim Cook’s Perspectives**

During the earnings call, Cook responded to inquiries about the iPhone’s performance in China. He recognized that although there had been a subdued performance in the past quarter, it was not because of a lack of interest but rather due to supply limitations. He voiced confidence that the iPhone 17 range would assist Apple in regaining growth in the next quarter, highlighting the positive reception and heightened foot traffic in Apple stores.

Cook also mentioned that recent government incentives had played a role in the sales increase, although he clarified that many of Apple’s items were not eligible for these incentives, indicating that the demand for the new iPhones was strong on its own.

**Conclusion**

The early success of the iPhone 17 in China signifies a notable recovery for Apple in a crucial market. With solid sales figures and favorable consumer responses, the company seems prepared for growth as it transitions into the next quarter. The data from Counterpoint Research not only bolsters Cook’s positive outlook but also emphasizes the strength of Apple’s brand in a tough economic environment. As Apple continues to navigate the intricacies of the Chinese market, the iPhone 17’s performance may forecast a bright future for the tech giant in the region.

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Former Apple COO Jeff Williams Has Officially Retired

**Jeff Williams Retires: Reflecting on His Influence at Apple**

In July of last year, Apple revealed that its longtime Chief Operating Officer, Jeff Williams, would retire “late in the year.” It has recently been confirmed that Williams has clocked out for the final time, signaling the conclusion of an era for the tech powerhouse.

### Williams’ Final Day at Apple

Having overseen Apple’s operations for ten years, Williams had already stepped down as de facto COO earlier this year, transferring the duties to Sabih Khan, who now serves as Apple’s Senior Vice President of Operations. Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, conveyed immense appreciation for Williams’ efforts, stating, “Apple wouldn’t be what it is without him.” He emphasized Williams’ involvement in crafting a reputable global supply chain, introducing the Apple Watch, and formulating the company’s health strategy.

### Contributions and Duties

Beyond his role as COO, Williams directed customer service and support, the design team, and the engineering for both software and hardware related to the Apple Watch. He played a key role in establishing Apple’s overall health initiatives, which have become a crucial aspect of the company’s ecosystem.

As Williams made his exit, reports indicated that various aspects of his responsibilities would be reallocated. The health and fitness teams will now come under Eddy Cue, Senior Vice President of Services, while Craig Federighi will manage watchOS, and John Ternus will oversee the engineering of Apple Watch hardware.

### Leadership Shifts on the Horizon

Williams’ retirement heralds a broader shift in leadership at Apple, with several executives expected to step down in the near future, including Tim Cook. Presently, Ternus is regarded as a leading candidate for the CEO role, though a timeline for this transition remains uncertain.

### Conclusion

Jeff Williams departs leaving a legacy of innovation and excellence at Apple. His contributions have forged the company into a leader in technology and design, and his exit signifies a pivotal moment in Apple’s history as it gears up for new leadership and forthcoming challenges.

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Firefox Unveils AI Window for Improved AI-Enhanced Browsing Experience

**Mozilla Unveils AI Window: A New Chapter in AI-Powered Browsing for Firefox**

Yesterday, Mozilla revealed an intriguing new experimental function for its Firefox browser named AI Window. This project is designed to consolidate the browser’s forthcoming AI features, offering users an inventive method to elevate their browsing journey.

### What is AI Window?

In a post on Mozilla’s Distilled blog, Ajit Varma, the VP of Product at Mozilla, characterized AI Window as “a novel, intelligent and user-governed area” within Firefox. This feature enables users to engage with an AI assistant during their browsing experience, providing assistance customized to their preferences. Notably, the feature is entirely optional, meaning users retain complete control over its functionality. If they deem it unhelpful, they can swiftly turn it off.

### User-Focused Strategy

Varma highlighted that although AI can deliver significant support, it may not attract every user consistently. Unlike other browsers that compel users to pick between universal AI integration or none at all, Mozilla is pursuing an alternative approach. The firm is encouraging users to take part in shaping the AI Window, making certain that the development process is guided by genuine user insights.

This “build in the open” tactic is a notable advantage for Mozilla. By involving users from the beginning, the company can sidestep errors and unnecessary duplication of features that have failed in competing browsers.

### How to Participate

Users keen on discovering the possibilities of AI Window can sign up for a waitlist by following [this link](https://www.firefox.com/en-US/ai/). For those wishing to delve further into the specifics, Varma’s complete blog post is accessible

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Revised Manual to My Preferred Discover My Accessories

# The Expanding Ecosystem of Find My Accessories

There is a thriving variety of Find My accessories available today. Each of these tools can enhance your daily life. After all, what could be a better investment than a means to monitor your most valuable belongings?

**Last updated November 14, 2025**: New products from Nomad and Chipolo have been added, and pricing and availability have been updated.

To recap, Find My accessories emit a low-energy Bluetooth signal that can be detected by nearby Apple devices. They do not depend on GPS technology. Instead, the location is transmitted securely and privately to the Find My network. This means that your Find My-enabled item can be located even if you’re far away, as long as there’s someone with an Apple device nearby.

Apple has continually introduced new features to the [Find My network](https://9to5mac.com/2024/11/11/ios-18-2-share-item-location-airtags-feature/), including a new system for sharing item locations.

## AirTag

No list of the best Find My accessories would be complete without mentioning Apple’s AirTags. Equipped with a U1 chip for Precision Finding support, a built-in speaker, and more, AirTags are essential for attaching to your luggage, backpack, keys, and various accessories.

AirTags have also seen significant enhancements since their launch in April 2021. Apple has introduced [new anti-stalking measures](https://9to5mac.com/2022/02/10/apple-announces-airtag-stalking-and-find-my-changes), [improved notification features](https://9to5mac.com/2022/04/29/airtag-firmware-update-enhances-unwanted-tracking-alert/), and other upgrades. You can now even utilize AirTags with your airline to [monitor your luggage](https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/03/airtags-newest-feature-is-perfect-for-travel-heres-how-it-works/).

While AirTags are not without flaws—offering only one form factor, lacking an integrated attachment system, and being nearly four years old—they still serve as an excellent entry point into the Find My ecosystem.

**Purchase AirTags:**

**Top AirTags accessories:**

## Chipolo’s Find My Ecosystem

Though Apple’s AirTag comes in just one design, Chipolo offers a range of trackers that fully integrate with Apple’s Find My ecosystem. This allows you to add them to the Find My app and monitor them alongside your Apple devices.

They also utilize Apple’s Find My network and AirTags to provide the most current location data.

– [Chipolo LOOP](https://geni.us/lF1oJev): An item tracker with an integrated loop holder and a rechargeable battery. The flexible silicone loop makes it easy to attach to keys, backpacks, luggage, and more.

– **[Chipolo One Spot](https://geni.us/uU6XQ)**: An AirTag-like tracker with Find My compatibility, featuring a built-in keyring hole so no additional case or attachment is needed.

## SwitchBot Wallet Finder

My [colleague Benjamin Mayo reviewed](https://9to5mac.com/2025/10/25/review-switchbot-wallet-finder-is-an-incredibly-useful-accessory-to-track-your-wallet-with-iphone-find-my/) the SwitchBot Wallet Finder, describing it as an “incredibly useful accessory for tracking your wallet” using your iPhone and the Find My ecosystem. Designed to fit into your wallet as a credit card, it also has a built-in keyring holder for easy attachment to a lanyard or backpack.

**Purchase the SwitchBot Wallet Finder:**

## Pebblebee’s Find My Ecosystem

Another favored brand for Find My accessories is Pebblebee.

– [The Pebblebee Clip](https://geni.us/hIwB2P2) is a compact tracker resembling the AirTag form but equipped with a keyring holder. It offers up to 12 months of battery life and can be recharged via a USB-C cable.

– Lastly, there’s the

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iOS 26.2: Summary of New Features for iPhone Users

# iOS 26.2: Fresh Features and Improvements

iOS 26.2 is now accessible for beta testing, bringing a variety of fresh features and enhancements for iPhone users. This update aims to improve user experience across numerous applications, such as Apple Podcasts, Reminders, and more. Below is a detailed summary of the new features found in the latest beta version.

## New Features in iOS 26.2

### Reminders
A highlighted addition in iOS 26.2 is the new “Urgent” option in the Reminders app. This functionality enables users to set alarms for tasks designated as urgent, ensuring that crucial tasks aren’t missed.

### Apple Music
The Apple Music app has undergone considerable improvements, especially regarding its lyrics feature. Users can now view lyrics for songs in their library without requiring a Wi-Fi or cellular connection. This encompasses complete lyrics, translations, and beat-by-beat syncing.

### Apple Podcasts
iOS 26.2 brings three significant features to Apple Podcasts:
1. **AI-Generated Chapters**: The app will automatically generate chapters for podcast episodes using AI, while producers can still submit their own chapters.
2. **Podcast Mentions**: When a podcast mentions another show, users can easily access it via a link included in the episode description.

### Sleep Score
The Sleep Score functionality on the Apple Watch has been improved based on user feedback. The classification criteria have been refined, making it more difficult to achieve higher scores. The new levels are:
– Very Low: 0-40 points
– Low: 41-60 points
– OK: 61-80 points
– High: 81-95 points
– Very High: 96-100 points

### Apple News
The Apple News app has experienced design modifications to enhance navigation. Users will discover dedicated buttons for quick access to Sports, Puzzles, Politics, and Food sections. Moreover, a new “Following” tab has been introduced to better manage favorites and saved articles.

### iOS 26.2 EU Changes
For users within the European Union, iOS 26.2 extends the Live Translation feature with AirPods, which had been previously delayed. Nonetheless, it also removes Wi-Fi network syncing between iPhones and Apple Watches due to regulatory standards.

### Liquid Glass
iOS 26.2 upgrades the Liquid Glass feature, allowing users to modify the transparency of the clock on their Lock Screen. The Measure app also received a Liquid Glass design enhancement for its Level tool, accompanied by new animations across the system.

### CarPlay Updates
CarPlay users will enjoy two important updates:
1. The option to disable Pinned Conversations in the Messages app.
2. An increase in widget stacks available for certain vehicles, providing more customization.

### Additional Changes
Other minor modifications in iOS 26.2 include:
– A new “Enhanced Safety Alerts” menu for toggling alerts for earthquakes and imminent dangers.
– Support for tables in the Freeform app.
– An “Excluded Websites” menu in the Passwords app.
– A new Accessibility option for “Flash to Alerts.”
– Upgrades to the Games app, including sorting and filtering capabilities.

## Conclusion
iOS 26.2 is presently in beta testing for developers and public beta users, with a complete release anticipated around mid-December. As testing progresses, more features may be included, and users are encouraged to share feedback about their favorite updates. This release aims to enhance the overall functionality and user experience of iOS devices, marking an exciting advancement for iPhone users.

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Apple’s MLS Agreement Adjusted to End in 2029, Three Years Earlier Than Planned: Report

**Apple-MLS Agreement Undergoing Major Transformations Amid Apple TV Reveal**

Yesterday, Apple unveiled that all matches of Major League Soccer (MLS) would be accessible through an Apple TV subscription without any extra charge. This announcement signifies a major realignment in the relationship between Apple and MLS, which is poised to see several transformations, including an earlier conclusion to their agreement.

As reported by Eben Novy-Williams and Jacob Feldman at Sportico, the streaming collaboration between MLS and Apple will now wrap up three-and-a-half years sooner than the initially anticipated decade-long duration. The adjusted contract arrives as MLS gears up to transition to Apple TV in 2026 and modify its league calendar in the subsequent year.

In line with the updated terms, MLS is set to acquire $200 million for the 2026 season, marking the final one under the existing calendar. For the condensed “sprint” season in 2027, MLS will receive $107.5 million. Following that, the league will garner $275 million for both the 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons. These particulars were revealed by sources familiar with the agreement, who asked to remain unnamed due to the confidential nature of the information.

Initially, the partnership was intended to span from 2023 to 2032, but the revised contract will now conclude in 2029. The deal encompasses further modifications beyond the adjusted timeline:

– Apple has given up its right to terminate the agreement after the 2027 season.
– The updated terms represent an approximate $50 million increase compared to what MLS would have received under the prior arrangement through June 2029.

Sportico mentions that while MLS could possibly renegotiate a new agreement with Apple in the future, the existing changes provide both organizations with enhanced flexibility. With the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, an upswing in North American interest in MLS is expected, allowing the league to assess its options with more extensive data following the World Cup.

In conclusion, the developing partnership between Apple and MLS showcases a strategic initiative to boost viewership and adapt to the evolving realm of sports broadcasting. The choice to provide all MLS matches free of charge to Apple TV subscribers is likely to enhance engagement, while the modification of the league’s annual schedule may further foster its expansion. As both parties navigate these changes, the prospect for future collaboration remains viable, with 2029 still a considerable time away in the swiftly changing streaming landscape.

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iPhone Progression: Advancing Past Steve Jobs’ Product Approach and Foreseeing Upcoming Developments

Apple’s Expanding iPhone Portfolio: Addressing Early Challenges

Apple Inc. has experienced considerable change since the death of its co-founder, Steve Jobs. The company has broadened its iPhone portfolio to cater to a varied and expanding user demographic, yet this diversification has resulted in some initial difficulties.

### Recent Changes to Apple’s iPhone Offerings

Over the past year, Apple has implemented significant modifications to its iPhone lineup:

– The iPhone SE has been phased out and succeeded by the iPhone 16e, which is positioned at a higher price tier with expectations for yearly updates.
– The iPhone Plus has been discontinued as well, paving the path for the new iPhone Air, which offers a distinct set of features and benefits.
– The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max have been upgraded with a more distinguished ‘Pro’ identity, featuring sturdier designs and enhanced camera capabilities.

Even with the rollout of these new models, the response has been varied. The iPhone 17 Pro seems to be performing well in terms of sales, while both the iPhone Air and iPhone 16e are reportedly encountering difficulties in the marketplace.

### Reflecting on Steve Jobs’ Product Philosophy

Steve Jobs was recognized for his focus on simplicity within product lines. Upon returning to Apple, he established a 2×2 product matrix to streamline the company’s offerings. This framework sorted products into consumer and professional categories, which aided in maintaining clarity for customers.

Traditionally, the iPhone lineup adhered to a similar format, including two consumer models (iPhone and iPhone Plus) and two professional models (iPhone Pro and Pro Max), with the iPhone SE acting as an affordable alternative. However, the recent adjustments have added complexity that strays from this usual structure.

### The Prospective Future of Apple’s iPhone Lineup

Looking forward, Apple is poised to launch six flagship iPhones within the next 18 months:

– iPhone 18e
– iPhone 18
– iPhone Air 2
– iPhone 18 Pro
– iPhone 18 Pro Max
– iPhone Fold

This broadened lineup offers both possibilities and hurdles for Apple. While it strives to meet the diverse needs of its user base, the intricacy of the offerings may bewilder consumers.

### Conclusion

Apple’s efforts to diversify its iPhone lineup illustrate its growth and the necessity to appeal to a wider audience. Nonetheless, the early challenges faced by the iPhone Air and iPhone 16e indicate that the company might need to refine its approach. As Apple navigates these initial hurdles, the emphasis will be on effectively distinguishing each product while preserving the simplicity that defined Jobs’ vision. The future of the iPhone lineup may call for patience and flexibility as Apple continues to progress in a competitive landscape.

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SwitchBot Unveils New Matter Lighting Collection with Integrated HomeKit Support, Hub-Free

SwitchBot is expanding its collection of smart home products, introducing an exciting new lighting series that operates with Matter over Wi-Fi. This allows you to link lights straight to HomeKit without the need for a hub or bridge (aside from an Apple TV or HomePod). The latest offerings from SwitchBot feature new RGBIC lights, a versatile neon rope light, and even a candle warmer lamp that can harmonize with your existing HomeKit scenes and automation. SwitchBot has had a successful run in 2025, launching several new products that integrate seamlessly with HomeKit.

### SwitchBot RGBIC Light Series

The RGBIC series consists of a floor lamp, strip light, and a neon rope light. Each device allows for complete color control through HomeKit once onboarded via Matter over Wi-Fi. The RGBIC lights can showcase multiple colors simultaneously, ideal for mood lighting, TV backlighting, or festive displays. SwitchBot has introduced support for both RGB colors and adjustable warm and cool white shades, giving you the ability to switch from vibrant scenes to standard lighting as desired. The strip light has an IP44 rating for light outdoor use, making it appropriate for covered outdoor spaces.

### SwitchBot RGB Light Series

For those seeking more straightforward lighting, the RGB series features the Floor Lamp 3 and LED Strip Light 3. These models forego segmented color control but offer adjustable brightness, 16 preset modes, and five dynamic effects. They function similarly to the RGBIC variants in HomeKit, allowing automation, Siri control, and color adjustments directly from the Home app.

### SwitchBot Neon Rope Light

Currently available only in North America, the neon rope light stands out as one of the more imaginative options in the range. You can shape it around furniture, shelves, or signage to provide personalized accent lighting. With its Matter support, you can adjust color and brightness straight from the Home app or incorporate it into your HomeKit scenes/automations. It’s flexible, simple to set up, and brings a playful touch to any space.

### SwitchBot Candle Warmer Lamp

The candle warmer lamp is the most distinctive item in the new collection and among the first of its type to support Matter over Wi-Fi. Rather than using a flame, it warms your candle with light, creating the same cozy ambiance without fire or smoke. Thanks to its Matter compatibility, you can manage it via the Home app and include it in your HomeKit scenes/automations. Picture saying, “Hey Siri, set the evening scene,” and having your lights dim and the candle warmer illuminate.

### Matter and HomeKit Support

What sets this lighting series apart is that all products connect directly to HomeKit via Matter over Wi-Fi. No need for a SwitchBot Hub or extra bridge. Simply plug them in, launch the Home app, scan the Matter code, and you’re good to go. Within moments, you can assign them to rooms, rename them, and add them to your existing HomeKit scenes or automations.

Since these lights utilize Wi-Fi instead of Thread, they don’t depend on a mesh network or require a separate border router. For many users, this is a significant advantage, as Wi-Fi coverage is readily available in most households. Matter offers the same benefits of privacy, local control, and support for multiple platforms.

For HomeKit users, daily interaction feels just like using any other native accessory. You can alter colors, fine-tune brightness, and incorporate the lights into automations, such as turning everything on at sunset or off when you leave your home.

### Wrap Up

SwitchBot continues to demonstrate its understanding of what smart home users truly seek: products that integrate with Matter and need no complicated setup. This new Matter over Wi-Fi lighting series satisfies both criteria. You receive native HomeKit control and adaptable options suitable for almost any environment or style. It’s encouraging to see SwitchBot consistently enhance its ecosystem with additional Matter support. Each new release makes the platform feel increasingly open and a lot more enjoyable to use.

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Key Aspects of macOS Tahoe That I Have Employed Following Two Months of Usage

### Discovering the New Functionalities of macOS Tahoe: What Resonated in My Workflow

macOS Tahoe has launched numerous productivity and continuity enhancements that promise to improve user experience. After a couple of months of usage, I’ve realized that merely a handful of these functionalities have blended seamlessly into my daily workflow. This article emphasizes the features that have left a lasting impression.

#### Live Activities Mirroring

Among the most notable features for me has been Live Activities mirroring. This addition has been a wonderful surprise, particularly for food orders. Even though I didn’t actively seek out iPhone Live Activity mirroring, it has become a consistent reminder of the updates in macOS this year.

As someone who prefers a tidy menu bar—utilizing applications like Bartender to conceal most icons—it’s easy to miss features like this. Nonetheless, Live Activities mirroring has shown to be practical, surfacing when required and enabling swift access to the app via iPhone Mirroring.

#### World Clock and List Calendar Widgets

With my global work responsibilities, the World Clock desktop widget has proven to be an essential asset. It aids me in managing time zones across Brazil, Pacific Time, Eastern Time, Mexico City, and Barcelona. Moreover, the List Calendar widget has turned out to be crucial for organizing my podcast schedules.

Both widgets can be accessed effortlessly with a swipe or a trackpad gesture, integrating so smoothly into my workflow that I often prefer using my Mac for quick checks over my iPhone. Despite my initial hesitance regarding desktop clutter, these widgets have become vital.

#### Honorable Mentions

– **Spotlight**: The inclusion of clipboard history, keyboard shortcuts, and automations in Spotlight is praiseworthy. However, as a seasoned user of Keyboard Maestro and TextExpander, I feel adequately equipped. For newcomers to automation, the enhanced Spotlight serves as an excellent introduction.

– **Control Center**: Initially, I believed that the ability to add Control Center items to the menu bar would not interest me, but it has turned out to be a genuinely beneficial feature. The introduction of Control Center was a highly awaited enhancement at WWDC, even if I don’t utilize it as often as others may.

– **Liquid Glass**: I admired the Liquid Glass redesign from its inception, although its influence on macOS feels less significant than on iOS. As a Dark Mode user, the updated transparency settings are subtle and less apparent, rendering it feel less impactful on macOS.

### Conclusion

Although macOS Tahoe has rolled out a range of features, not every one has struck a chord with every user. The Live Activities mirroring, World Clock, and List Calendar widgets have become integral to my workflow, while other functionalities, although impressive, have not made a considerable impression. What features have you found most beneficial in macOS Tahoe? Share your insights in the comments.

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iPhone 17 Pro Reaches Enhanced Charging Rates: Insights on the Upgrades

# iPhone 17 Pro Max: Improved Charging Speeds and Battery Efficacy

The iPhone 17 Pro Max has captured attention with its remarkable battery capacity and charging speeds, representing a notable enhancement over its predecessor. ChargerLAB recently performed assessments on the charging performance of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, uncovering that it can reach charging speeds of up to 36W, an increase of 20% compared to the iPhone 16 Pro.

## Charging Speeds for iPhone 17 Pro Max Reach 36W

Last year, the iPhone 16 Pro established a standard with charging speeds near 30W, already a significant upgrade over the iPhone 15 Pro. Yet, Apple has continued to break new ground with the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which was evaluated with 15 different Apple chargers. The findings revealed that users can achieve a peak charging speed of 36W, highlighting another year of notable progress in charging technology.

To reach this peak speed, users can employ various Apple chargers, including the new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter, which is optimized for fast charging. Furthermore, Apple’s MagSafe charger also excelled, providing charging speeds of 32W. However, for those aiming for the quickest charging experience, a wired connection with an Apple 40W charger or greater is suggested.

## The Significance of Charging Speed

While increased battery capacities are always appreciated, the correlated rise in charging speeds is just as vital. A larger battery that charges at a slower rate can lead to perceptions of inefficiency, even with an enhanced overall capacity. Hence, Apple’s focus on boosting charging speeds along with battery enhancements is a strategic decision to guarantee user satisfaction.

## Conclusion

The iPhone 17 Pro Max not only features a greater battery but also considerably enhanced charging speeds, making it an attractive option for users who emphasize performance and efficiency. As technology continues to progress, Apple’s improvements in charging capabilities demonstrate its commitment to elevating the user experience. Whether through wired or wireless charging methods, the iPhone 17 Pro Max shines as a frontrunner in smartphone charging technology.

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