Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Roborock is introducing a time-limited sale on its newest F25 series floor cleaners, featuring considerable price cuts on both the flagship F25 Ultra and the more budget-friendly F25 GT. This offer is valid from January 10 to January 23, making Roborock’s state-of-the-art wet and dry cleaning technology more accessible to a larger audience.

The F25 Ultra is priced at $499.99, reflecting a $300 reduction from its standard price of $799.99. The F25 GT is offered at $189.99, reduced from $299, and this promotion lasts until January 18.

### Roborock F25 Ultra: The Pinnacle of Floor Cleaning

The F25 Ultra stands as Roborock’s premier floor cleaner, engineered to handle various cleaning tasks with efficiency. It utilizes VaporFlow and WaveFlow technology for steam and hot water cleaning, effectively addressing tough stains while facilitating simultaneous wet and dry cleaning.

Key specifications include:
– Suction power reaching up to 22,000 Pa
– Downward pressure of 33 newtons
– 33 cm cleaning width
– Edge-to-edge coverage complemented by blue light illumination to reveal fine dust

Maintenance is made easier with the JawScrapers anti-tangle roller, which reduces hair tangles and streaking. The F25 Ultra also provides self-cleaning features using high-temperature steam and hot water, with the ability to self-dry in just 5 minutes.

Smart functionalities improve the user experience, including automatic dirt detection, an automatic detergent dispenser, app control, voice notifications, and an enhanced LED display that features a progress bar. Its design encourages effortless maneuvering, equipped with automated wheels and a 180-degree lay-flat capability for cleaning beneath low furniture.

### Roborock F25 GT: Essential Features at a Budget-Friendly Rate

The F25 GT presents a budget-friendly choice, emphasizing essential cleaning performance. It offers suction power of up to 20,000 Pa and downward pressure of 20 newtons, making it adept at handling everyday messes.

Like the Ultra, the F25 GT includes:
– 180-degree lay-flat cleaning
– Edge-to-edge cleaning efficiency
– A tangle-free roller for simpler upkeep

It allows for hot water self-cleaning at 90°C, with a drying duration of around 30 minutes. However, it does not include some of the advanced features such as dirt detection, app control, and an automatic detergent dispenser.

The F25 GT provides two cleaning modes (Eco and Sponge), with a maximum runtime of 35 minutes in Eco mode, making it a sensible selection for those wanting efficient cleaning without the extra features of the Ultra.

### Selecting the Appropriate F25 Model

A comparison of the specifications underscores the distinctions between the F25 Ultra and F25 GT:

| Category | F25 Ultra | F25 GT |
|————————–|————————-|————————-|
| Suction Power | 22,000 Pa | 20,000 Pa |
| Downward Pressure | 33 N | 20 N |
| Steam Self-Cleaning | Yes | No |
| Hot Water Self-Cleaning | 95°C | 90°C |
| Self-Drying Temperature | 95°C | 90°C |
| Drying Time | 5-15 min | 30 min |
| Dirt Detection | Yes | No |
| App Control | Yes | No |
| Cleaning Modes | Steam, hot water, auto, sponge | Eco, sponge |

### Time-Limited Exclusive Offer

The F25 Ultra is perfect for those seeking the ultimate cleaning experience, priced at $499.99 until January 23. The F25 GT appeals to customers looking for robust cleaning efficacy at a lower price point, available for $189.99 until January 18.

This promotion presents a fantastic opportunity to enhance your floor cleaning technology according to your budget and cleaning requirements.

### The Future of IT Management: An API for Apple Knowledge

In the swiftly changing domain of IT management, especially in settings that make use of Apple devices, the incorporation of cutting-edge AI tools has become crucial. As we approach 2026, IT Directors confront the task of navigating a multitude of AI solutions that claim to optimize support and troubleshooting workflows. Nevertheless, numerous tools frequently depend on unreliable data sources, resulting in generic and sometimes unproductive resolutions.

#### The Need for Accurate Troubleshooting

Present-day AI tools generally deliver answers derived from publicly accessible information, which is often outdated or irrelevant. For example, when a configuration profile fails to install on an iPad, the error messages emitted are usually ambiguous, and AI models may propose typical solutions like rebooting the device or verifying certificates. These recommendations might not consider recent updates in Apple’s software or specific bugs that necessitate unique remedies.

The essence of the problem lies in the absence of access to real-time, authoritative troubleshooting information from Apple. This gap can cause frustration for IT professionals charged with managing and resolving issues efficiently.

#### A Vision for an IT Knowledge API

To tackle these obstacles, a proposed remedy is the creation of an IT Knowledge API within Apple Business/School Manager. This API would act as a central hub for Apple’s official documentation, encompassing support articles, developer release notes, and known issues. By incorporating this API into device management systems, IT teams could obtain precise, real-time information concurrently with the issues they are addressing.

Envision an AI tool that not only delivers context-specific solutions but also suggests workarounds for bugs in beta software ahead of their public documentation. This functionality would greatly boost the efficiency of IT teams, enabling them to resolve issues without resorting to multiple sources or opening additional tabs.

#### Practical Applications for IT Teams

The practical uses of such an API are extensive. For instance, if an IT professional faces a complicated file permission issue, the API could produce the exact terminal command necessary to resolve it. Whether handling Time Machine snapshots or VPN connection troubles, having access to accurate, Apple-sanctioned guidance would simplify the troubleshooting procedure.

Additionally, the API could assist in gathering logs from macOS devices, providing deeper insights into particular problems and allowing for more effective resolutions.

#### The Value of Apple’s Knowledge

Apple holds a vast reservoir of knowledge surrounding its ecosystem, comprising internal engineering documentation, user feedback, and public support resources. By democratizing access to this knowledge through an API, Apple could enable device management vendors to significantly enhance their tools. This would allow IT professionals to devote less time to seeking solutions and more time to executing effective fixes.

In a landscape where data reigns supreme, the organization that leverages the best information will take the lead. By offering an API that integrates real-time troubleshooting information, Apple could transform the IT management field, streamlining daily operations for IT admins.

#### Conclusion

The establishment of an IT Knowledge API would signify a major breakthrough in the management of Apple devices across organizations. By utilizing Apple’s vast knowledge base, IT teams could improve their troubleshooting proficiency, minimize downtime, and ultimately enhance the overall user experience. As we advance, the emphasis should be on developing tools that provide accurate, context-rich information, equipping IT professionals to adeptly maneuver the complexities of Apple device management with confidence.

**Abidur Chowdhury Joins AI Startup Hark: A New Era in Human-Centric Design**

Following his announcement to leave Apple two months ago, industrial designer Abidur Chowdhury has officially become a part of Hark, an AI startup led by Brett Adcock, who also serves as the CEO of Figure AI. Chowdhury is known for his contribution to the launch of the iPhone Air at Apple, and his move to Hark signifies a pivotal transition in his career as he explores the expansive realm of artificial intelligence.

### Hark: A Fresh Contender in AI

Hark is a newly formed startup that has attracted significant attention due to its ambitious aspirations and considerable funding. Reports reveal that the company commenced operations with $100 million sourced from Adcock’s personal funds. The startup aims to create “human-centric” AI technologies that are engineered to think proactively, enhance recursively, and prioritize user welfare. This dedication to human-focused design resonates with the ongoing trends in technology, where user experience and ethical implications are gaining heightened importance.

### Talent Acquisition Strategy

Hark has already captured headlines by bringing on board top talent from leading tech firms. Reports suggest that the startup has successfully hired approximately 30 engineers from major corporations such as Google, Meta, and Amazon, with intentions to grow its workforce to 100 within the initial half of the year. This assertive recruitment approach highlights Hark’s determination to position itself as a significant contender in the AI sector.

### The Vision for Human-Centric AI

While the idea of “human-centric” AI is compelling, specific insights into the products or technologies that Chowdhury will contribute to at Hark remain ambiguous. The startup’s vision implies a commitment to producing AI systems that not only fulfill functional roles but also enhance the human experience. This could entail crafting AI interfaces that are intuitive and empathetic, fostering a stronger connection between technology and its users.

### Challenges in AI Hardware

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding AI, the market for AI-driven hardware has encountered obstacles. Various firms, including Humane and Rabbit, have faced difficulties in sustaining visibility and relevance, often overshadowed by larger tech entities. Conversely, Meta has achieved success with its Ray-Ban-branded connected eyewear, leveraging the momentum of the AI surge. This underscores the significance of strategic positioning and flexibility in the swiftly shifting tech environment.

### Future Outlook

As Hark begins its journey, the industry will closely observe how it tackles the hurdles of AI development and market rivalry. The success of its human-centered strategy will hinge on its capacity to innovate and connect with consumers meaningfully. With Chowdhury’s design acumen and Hark’s ambitious objectives, the startup may well lead the charge into a new epoch of AI that prioritizes human needs and experiences.

In summary, Abidur Chowdhury’s transition to Hark marks a significant change in the tech space, where the convergence of design and artificial intelligence is becoming ever more pertinent. As Hark strives to redefine the dynamics between humans and technology, it will be crucial to follow its advancement and the effect of its innovations on the overall landscape of AI.

**OmniOutliner 6: An In-Depth Look at Features and Upgrades**

After a brief beta testing phase, The Omni Group has officially released OmniOutliner 6, a major update that brings robust improvements and new capabilities designed to elevate the outlining experience for both experienced users and newcomers.

### Introduction of Omni Links

A notable feature of OmniOutliner 6 is the addition of Omni Links, enabling users to establish connections to documents through user-defined Connected Folders. These folders can be located locally or remotely, utilizing services like Dropbox, iCloud Drive, and Google Drive. This capability also permits linking to specific content within documents, simplifying navigation and information organization across various devices. The links can be shared with other users of OmniOutliner 6, enhancing collaboration.

### Enhanced User Interface and Customization

OmniOutliner 6 has received a visual update, embracing the Liquid Glass design elements consistent with other Omni Group applications. The application now delivers a unified experience across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, allowing users to benefit from an identical UI and feature set. The update resolves earlier Dark Mode inconsistencies, empowering users to tailor their appearance settings and apply Dynamic Themes that adjust to light or dark modes. Fully customizable templates with cross-platform compatibility further enrich the user experience.

### Improved Usability Features

The latest version brings significant usability advancements, including:
– Notes that can span across multiple columns.
– Customizable grid lines for enhanced organization.
– Unlimited outline hierarchy levels.
– Ability to open multiple windows of the same project, allowing users to seamlessly drag and drop items between instances.

These features facilitate the outlining process, easing the management of complex projects.

### AI Tools Integration

Building on the innovations introduced in OmniFocus 4.8, OmniOutliner 6 integrates AI Tools, which utilize Apple’s on-device AI framework. This feature enables users to extract text from different sources and obtain outline summaries based on specific queries. Users can create comprehensive outlines for tasks, boosting productivity and fostering creativity.

### Additional Features

OmniOutliner 6 also brings several appreciated enhancements:
– **Attachment Enhancements**: Users can now resize image attachments, with attachment support available in the Essentials edition.
– **Saved Filters**: Enhanced filtering options now accommodate nested rules and extended date-based rules.
– **Pasting Options**: New pasting settings for styled text provide increased formatting flexibility.
– **Essentials Mode**: Pro users can experience the Essentials functionality by disabling Pro features.

### Conclusion

OmniOutliner 6 marks a significant advancement in outlining software, combining an intuitive interface with powerful features that address a broad spectrum of productivity demands. Whether you are just starting with outlining or are an experienced user, OmniOutliner 6 equips you with the tools needed to refine your workflow and creativity. With its universal purchase model, users can enjoy the application across various Apple devices, making it an adaptable complement to any productivity toolbox.

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly changing tech landscape, keeping up with the latest news and trends is crucial, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides an easy way to stay informed about the key stories that impact the Apple ecosystem. This podcast caters to individuals who wish to remain updated while on the move.

**What is 9to5Mac Daily?**

9to5Mac Daily is a daily podcast that offers listeners a summary of the leading stories concerning Apple and its products. Each episode is recorded during the weekdays, ensuring that subscribers receive new content consistently. The podcast addresses a broad spectrum of subjects, including product releases, software updates, industry developments, and insights from professionals in the sector.

**How to Listen**

Listeners can tune into 9to5Mac Daily on various platforms, allowing for easy incorporation into their daily schedules. The podcast can be found on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
– [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
– [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
– [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
– [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications

**Exclusive Content with 9to5Mac Daily Plus**

For those seeking a premium listening experience, 9to5Mac Daily Plus provides an ad-free edition of every episode, along with additional content. Subscribers can directly support the podcast by visiting [9to5mac.com/join](http://9to5mac.com/join).

**Engaging with the Community**

Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback. You can contact via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Moreover, ratings and reviews on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) assist others in discovering the show.

**Conclusion**

9to5Mac Daily is an essential resource for anyone interested in Apple news and updates. With its accessibility and captivating content, it acts as an ideal companion for those who wish to stay informed in the continuously changing tech world. Whether you are commuting, exercising, or just unwinding at home, listening to 9to5Mac Daily ensures you stay updated on the latest from Apple.

# Apple Games in iOS 26: A Fresh Center for All iPhone Gaming

iOS 26 brings two entirely new applications for iPhone users, one of which is named ‘Apple Games.’ This application acts as a specialized center for gaming, offering a customized space for games and playing alongside friends. The iPhone has emerged as a widely favored platform for gaming, presenting an extensive array of titles ranging from casual games to AAA hits. With the Apple Games app, gamers can effortlessly access their preferred games across iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

## Features of the Apple Games App

When users launch the Apple Games app in iOS 26, they will find five primary sections:

– **Home**: This area provides a quick route to recently played games, suggestions for new titles, and insights into friends’ gaming activities.

– **Arcade**: Centered on Apple Arcade, this section grants access to over 200 games without advertisements or in-app purchases. Users can subscribe to Apple Arcade via the Apple One bundle or as an independent service for $6.99/month.

– **Friends**: This section showcases a summary of Game Center activities from friends and allows users to start gaming challenges.

– **Library**: Users can explore all installed games on their device, with filtering options to organize extensive game libraries. This area also features game achievements and events.

– **Search**: The search function permits users to find games and explore various categories such as Multiplayer, Action, Family, and Puzzle.

With the latest updates in iOS 26.2, the Games app has enhanced controller support, allowing smooth navigation without the need to alternate between the controller and touch input.

## Conclusion

The Apple Games app in iOS 26 elevates the gaming experience on iPhones by offering distinct features like filtering options for extensive game libraries and social gaming capabilities. While some attributes may align with the existing App Store app, the Games app distinguishes itself by emphasizing community and tailored gaming experiences. Users are encouraged to delve into the app and share their favorite features.

### The Significance of Physical Controls in a Smart Home

In the age of smart homes, automation is frequently praised for its ease and effectiveness. Nevertheless, there remains a crucial necessity for physical controls that enable users to engage with their devices without depending solely on voice commands or mobile applications. This article examines the importance of physical buttons in smart home configurations, with emphasis on the Flic Hub LR and the Flic Duo as useful solutions for managing Apple Home scenes and devices.

#### Why Physical Buttons Remain Relevant

Although voice control provides a hands-free experience, it is not always the most pragmatic option. For example, when departing home, numerous users prefer to simply press a button to trigger their “Goodbye” scene, ensuring that doors are secured and lights are turned off without needing verbal interaction with a virtual assistant. This inclination for physical controls is notably significant for visitors or family members who might not be acquainted with the smart home setup. A simple button can eliminate the requirement for app installations and complex instructions.

Furthermore, physical buttons offer speed and ease. Navigating through a smartphone interface can be cumbersome, particularly when immediate actions are required. Having a button easily accessible on a coffee table or nightstand allows for prompt control over lights and other devices, enhancing the overall smart home experience.

#### What You Need to Begin

To employ Flic buttons in your smart home, you require a bridge to connect them to your Wi-Fi network and incorporate them into Apple HomeKit. The Flic Hub LR is the suggested option for HomeKit users, as it officially supports Apple’s smart home framework. This hub utilizes Bluetooth 5.1 LE for long-range connectivity, enabling it to manage up to 63 buttons, making it ideal for larger residences. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm port for an optional IR blaster, allowing control of older devices.

#### Utilizing the Flic Duo

The Flic Duo signifies an inventive addition to the Flic range, merging the simplicity of a button with sophisticated gesture controls. When affixed to a wall, it operates as a conventional smart switch, making it intuitive for guests. When held in hand, it activates gesture controls such as swiping and tilting, which can modify volume or skip tracks.

However, users should be aware that Apple’s HomeKit framework has restrictions regarding complex gestures. While the Flic app can take advantage of these features for other platforms, HomeKit integration is mainly constrained to basic actions like single, double, and long presses. A notable feature of the Flic Duo is its built-in speaker, which assists users in locating the device easily if it gets lost.

#### Conclusion

The Flic Duo and Flic Hub LR offer outstanding choices for those in search of physical access controls within their smart home environments. While the Flic Duo presents cutting-edge features, users focused exclusively on HomeKit may also consider the more straightforward Smart Button from Flic. Overall, these devices enhance the smart home experience by delivering intuitive and immediate control over lighting and other scenes, thus making them valuable additions to any automated home arrangement.

– You can purchase the Flic Hub LR from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/49dF9D7).
– You can buy the Flic Duo from [Flic](https://flic.io/duo).
– You can acquire the Smart Button in a 3-pack from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/48DBi24).

# 9to5Mac Forums: A Fresh Community Hub for Apple Fans

We’re thrilled to unveil a new method for the 9to5Mac community to interact: [9to5Mac Forums](https://9to5mac.com/forums/). Here’s how it functions and all the essential information you need.

## Accessing the 9to5Mac Forums

You can reach the 9to5Mac Forums at this link: [9to5mac.com/forums/](https://9to5mac.com/forums/). The platform is crafted to be intuitive, featuring categories for diverse Apple-related topics, such as hardware, software, and services. Users can initiate their own threads, join discussions, and interact with others by upvoting and downvoting comments.

## Smooth Integration with Current Accounts

A standout feature of the 9to5Mac Forums is its utilization of the same system as the existing 9to5Mac commenting platform. This means there’s no need to set up a new account; you can participate in both comments and forums with a single account.

## A Space for Connection and Conversation

The aim of the 9to5Mac Forums is to foster a lively and engaging atmosphere for readers and Apple enthusiasts to interact. Whether it’s discussing the latest Apple updates, delving into Apple history, or sharing tips and tricks, the forums strive to offer a venue for all interests related to Apple.

The hope is that this initiative evolves 9to5Mac from just a news outlet into a dynamic community where users can connect. Over time, the forums are anticipated to become a primary resource for finding solutions, uncovering useful advice, and connecting with fellow Apple aficionados, all while enjoying daily updates on Apple news.

## Input and Enhancements

The 9to5Mac team is eager to receive feedback from users. They are dedicated to implementing enhancements based on community suggestions. If you have any feedback, inquiries, or issues, the team encourages you to get in touch.

**Join the conversation: [9to5mac.com/forums/](https://9to5mac.com/forums/)**

**Support for Older Version of Apple Home Will Conclude February 10**

Apple’s HomeKit and the Home app have been essential to smart home management for more than ten years. In 2022, Apple rolled out a new framework for the Home app designed to improve the efficiency and dependability of controlling home devices. Although the upgrade was originally voluntary, Apple has established a definitive deadline for users who have not yet made the switch to the new system.

Initially planned for Fall 2025, the deadline for transitioning to the new Home app framework has been updated to February 10, 2026. Apple has started reaching out to users through email to remind them of this looming deadline, encouraging those who have not yet made the update to act swiftly.

The update procedure is simple:

1. Open the Home app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
2. Tap or click the More button.
3. Choose Home Settings.
4. Select Software Update.
5. Tap or click Update Now and follow the instructions.

It’s crucial to understand that devices operating on earlier versions of iOS will need to be updated to access the new Home app. Any device connected to an upgraded home that does not utilize iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, macOS 13.1, tvOS 16.2, or watchOS 9.2 or higher will lose access until it is updated.

Looking forward, speculation indicates that Apple might be preparing a considerable expansion of its smart home product range, with possible new hardware announcements anticipated around March.

For users who have not yet upgraded, now is the moment to ensure compatibility and benefit from the new features provided by the revised Apple Home app.

# Apple’s Anticipated iPhone Collection for 2026

Apple is preparing for an exhilarating year in 2026, with more than 20 new products projected to debut, including four fresh iPhone models. Among these, the iPhone 17e is expected to be the first to arrive, succeeded by the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable variant rumored to be named the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra.

## iPhone 17e

The iPhone 17e is scheduled for release in the next month or two, acting as the successor to the iPhone 16e and rounding out the iPhone 17 series. This model is speculated to boast multiple upgrades, such as:

– A19 chip, an enhancement over the A18
– Dynamic Island replacing the notch
– Center Stage front camera
– Slimmer bezels for a contemporary look
– MagSafe compatibility

Nonetheless, it will maintain a single rear camera, with the display foregoing ProMotion and always-on functionality, along with Camera Control. Priced at around $599, the iPhone 17e aims to attract budget-aware consumers seeking an upgrade.

## iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max

Projected to launch in the autumn, likely in September, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will expand upon the achievements of the iPhone 17 Pro. While major alterations may not be foreseen, the improvements from the earlier model could render these flagship devices highly desirable.

## iPhone Fold / iPhone Ultra

Following years of conjecture, Apple is poised to unveil its inaugural foldable iPhone, rumored to be designated either the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra. This groundbreaking device is anticipated to debut in the fall with a starting price of roughly $2,000.

The iPhone Fold is expected to showcase a stylish titanium chassis, featuring an inner display of approximately 7.6 inches and an outer display around 5.4 inches. It will adopt a book-style folding design, reportedly free of a screen crease. Furthermore, it may contain the largest iPhone battery to date, although the new form factor raises concerns regarding overall battery endurance.

The device is likely to incorporate the A20 Pro chip from the iPhone 18 Pro, alongside two rear cameras and two front-facing cameras—one for each display. Due to size limitations, Apple may choose to use Touch ID as opposed to Face ID.

## 2026 iPhones Conclusion: No iPhone 18?

Significantly, the base model iPhone 18 is not anticipated to launch this year. Typically, a base model is introduced concurrently with the Pro models in the fall, but reports indicate that the iPhone 18 will be postponed until early 2027. Premium iPhone 18 versions are still expected to debut in fall 2026, with the budget-friendly base iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and possibly the iPhone Air 2 following in spring 2027.

As Apple gears up to introduce its new iPhone collection, consumers are left pondering the features and innovations that will characterize the forthcoming generation of iPhones.