Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### iPhone 18 Pro: Enhancements in Satellite Connectivity

The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to bring major improvements to satellite connectivity, possibly transforming a function usually designated for emergencies into a regular feature for users. This enhancement is likely to utilize Apple’s new C2 chip, which will not only accommodate 5G cellular connectivity but also facilitate seamless 5G satellite connections.

#### Progression of Satellite Connectivity in iPhones

Satellite connectivity first appeared with the iPhone 14 in 2022, and Apple has steadily improved its satellite features over time. Notably, the launch of “Messages via Satellite” in 2024 enabled users to communicate even in regions without cellular coverage. Nonetheless, the imminent iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra are expected to elevate these functionalities significantly.

#### The C2 Chip: A Transformative Innovation

The C2 modem is intended to replace Qualcomm modems in Apple’s flagship products, providing the ability to support 5G via satellite through a technology referred to as 5G NR-NTN (New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks). This integration aims to streamline the user experience by enabling the iPhone 18 Pro to automatically switch to a satellite connection when cellular service is insufficient, removing the necessity for users to manually direct their devices toward satellites.

#### Advantages of Improved Connectivity

The potential for automatic satellite connectivity could transform how users engage with their devices in low-coverage regions. Reports indicate that Apple is striving to ensure that users can stay connected even when their iPhones are in pockets, vehicles, or indoors. If realized, this feature could transition satellite connectivity from a specialized emergency tool to a regular resource for everyday scenarios.

At present, Apple’s satellite functionalities are mainly beneficial in life-threatening situations, but with the C2 chip, the iPhone 18 Pro might offer dependable connectivity in typical circumstances where cellular signals are feeble.

#### Conclusion

The iPhone 18 Pro’s improvements in satellite connectivity, driven by the groundbreaking C2 chip, promise to significantly enhance the user experience. By rendering satellite connectivity more accessible and automatic, Apple may reshape the purpose of this technology, making it a vital component of everyday communication for users worldwide.

**Shortcuts Playground: An Innovative Tool for Apple’s Shortcuts App**

Federico Viticci, recognized for his insightful work at MacStories, has introduced a groundbreaking tool known as Shortcuts Playground. This plugin for Claude Code and Codex enables users to craft any shortcut for Apple’s Shortcuts app using natural language, making the shortcut creation process much simpler.

### What is Shortcuts Playground?

Shortcuts Playground is crafted to allow users to generate shortcuts with ease. By merely prompting Claude Code or Codex with a natural language request, users can get a fully functional shortcut that is ready to be imported into the Shortcuts app. Federico highlights the tool as the result of six months of development, underscoring its user-friendly nature.

### Getting Started with Shortcuts Playground

Users should begin with straightforward requests. Examples could include generating a “humorous and chaotic Hello World shortcut,” a shortcut that shares the five most recent screenshots with a contact via iMessage, or one that shows the time left until the next calendar event. The tool handles these requests and produces a validated shortcut in just minutes, depending on the complexity.

### Open Source and Community Participation

Shortcuts Playground is available for free and is open source, with detailed documentation accessible on GitHub. This openness allows users to grasp the tool’s underlying mechanics and promotes community involvement.

### Advanced Features for Club MacStories Members

For Club MacStories members, Federico has rolled out an advanced feature: “Shortcuts Playground as a generative shortcut.” This meta-functionality lets users create more shortcuts directly on their devices after installing the primary plugin on a Mac. This feature enhances the tool’s flexibility, making it simpler to manage shortcuts across various Apple devices.

### Conclusion

Shortcuts Playground signifies a major improvement in the accessibility of Apple’s Shortcuts app, empowering users to leverage the power of automation without requiring extensive programming skills. To further explore this innovative tool and download it, visit MacStories. Federico’s efforts continue to motivate and enable users to boost their productivity through inventive automation solutions.

**Silo Season 3: A Fresh Chapter for Juliette Nichols**

The eagerly awaited return of Silo season 3 is imminent, and a new clip has unveiled a major change for Rebecca Ferguson’s character, Juliette Nichols.

### Rebecca Ferguson’s Juliette Embraces a Key New Role in Silo Season 3

For those who prefer to steer clear of spoilers regarding Silo season 3, it’s advisable to stop reading now.

Apple initially announced the upcoming arrival of Silo with a teaser trailer that presented a snapshot of what to anticipate. This teaser hinted that season 3 would delve into the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind the multitude of silos being established. However, a more recent teaser gives a better insight into the transformation of Juliette Nichols.

In the freshly released clip, shared by Apple TV through Rotten Tomatoes, audiences witness Rebecca Ferguson’s character taking on the role of the new mayor of the silo. This public role signifies a remarkable shift from her origins in the series. Originally introduced as a mechanic who preferred staying away from the limelight, Juliette was pushed into the sheriff position. Throughout two seasons, her engagement with the community has expanded, and this mayorship solidifies a leadership role that has been gradually forming throughout the series.

Silo season 3 is scheduled to launch on **Friday, July 3**, with its debut episode, followed by weekly episodes until September 4. For fans eager to find out what the future holds, Silo is adapted from a trilogy of well-known novels by Hugh Howey, with seasons 3 and 4 encompassing elements from the second and third books.

Viewers can catch up on the first two seasons of Silo on Apple TV. Apple TV is priced at **$12.99 per month**, with promotional offers accessible through the Apple One bundle.

# BBEdit 16: A Detailed Insight into New Features

Bare Bones Software has launched BBEdit 16, a major update to its acclaimed text and code editor for macOS. This recent version brings a multitude of new features and enhancements designed to elevate user experience and productivity. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what BBEdit 16 provides.

## Notable Features of BBEdit 16

### In-Image Text Search

A prominent feature in BBEdit 16 is the capability to search for text embedded in images. This function supports grep patterns, enabling users to perform advanced searches for specific text structures or variants within screenshots and other image files. This feature broadens BBEdit’s applicability, allowing users to discover text in innovative contexts.

### Upgraded Notebooks Feature

BBEdit 16 enhances the Notebooks functionality by integrating built-in indexing for quicker searches. This is especially advantageous for users overseeing substantial amounts of text. Furthermore, users can now implement various color themes to Notebooks and projects, aiding in easier workspace distinction.

### Performance Enhancements

The update includes numerous backend improvements that enhance overall performance. BBEdit 16 operates more effectively, utilizing less processing power and energy. Significantly, SFTP file transfers are now much quicker, and emoji handling has been optimized for seamless interactions with complex emoji characters.

### Expanded Shortcuts Support

BBEdit 16 extends the Shortcuts support introduced in version 15, offering greater integration with macOS App Intents. Users can now execute text transformations directly from Shortcuts, including sorting text, processing duplicates, and executing grep-supported Replace All tasks. Certain actions can even be carried out without BBEdit being open, enhancing workflow automation.

### Updated Chat Experience

For users employing the LLM integration within Worksheets, BBEdit 16 upgrades the chat experience by accommodating streaming APIs. This feature allows responses to appear in real time as data is received from the server, enhancing overall interaction with AI tools.

### Enhanced Model Selection

The model selection process has been revised to enable users to request an up-to-date list of available models from supported providers through their APIs. This removes the need for users to manually keep track of model names, simplifying the workflow.

### HTML Syntax Checker Update

BBEdit 16 refreshes its built-in HTML syntax checker to leverage the W3C API for validation. Users also have the option to run the checker locally, providing flexibility for those apprehensive about sending HTML to outside services.

### Enhancements to Site Tools

The site tools have been revised to facilitate separate test and production deployment locations, streamlining user management of server settings during transitions between staging and live environments. Additionally, BBEdit 16 introduces VI keyboard emulation for users shifting from VI.

## Pricing and Availability

BBEdit 16 is available for purchase at the same pricing as earlier versions: $60 for new users, $30 for upgrades from BBEdit 15, and $40 for upgrades from previous versions. Customers who acquired a BBEdit 15 license on or after November 1, 2025, can upgrade at no cost. The app’s Free Mode continues to be available, and the new release resets the 30-day fully functional trial period.

For a full list of features and updates, users can check the [official release notes](https://www.barebones.com/products/bbedit/bbedit16.html).

BBEdit 16 illustrates Bare Bones Software’s dedication to boosting productivity and efficiency for its users, establishing it as an invaluable tool for anyone engaged with text and code on macOS.

**OpenAI Upgrades Codex in ChatGPT for iPhone and iPad**

Last week, OpenAI launched an update for ChatGPT on iPhone and iPad, incorporating access to Codex, its sophisticated coding tool tailored for Mac users. This update has provided several enhancements to the Codex experience on iOS, resolving prior issues and improving functionality.

### Important Updates to Codex in ChatGPT

One of the most notable enhancements is the resolution of a glitch that impacted users who logged in with Apple. Initially, these individuals faced challenges in setting up Codex due to an erroneous display of a Google sign-in form. OpenAI has rectified this problem, permitting those who use Sign in with Apple to successfully connect Codex.

Furthermore, the latest update adds support for push notifications linked to task completion. Users can now receive alerts on their iPhone or iPad when a task in Codex for Mac is finished or needs input, removing the necessity to constantly check on progress.

OpenAI has also broadened the command features within Codex, commencing with the launch of the /fork command, with additional commands such as /side anticipated soon. This improvement is designed to enhance user interactions and boost overall efficiency.

Looking forward, OpenAI intends to keep releasing new features and capabilities for the Codex desktop app, with routine updates expected on Thursdays.

### Codex: The Power User Edition of ChatGPT

Codex is swiftly affirming itself as the power user edition of ChatGPT. Last month, it acquired the capability to interact with applications on the Mac without taking over the cursor, enabling users to execute tasks while retaining full control of their devices. This feature greatly amplifies productivity by promoting multitasking.

OpenAI has also rolled out a subscription plan explicitly crafted for Codex users, reflecting the increasing demand for advanced functionalities. Additionally, the recent introduction of GPT-5.5 has enhanced both ChatGPT and Codex, boosting their capabilities and performance.

Initially launched as a command line interface tool, Codex made its entrance on Mac in February. Since then, it has transformed into a comprehensive application that serves the needs of developers and tech aficionados alike.

### Conclusion

The recent enhancements to Codex in ChatGPT for iPhone and iPad represent a significant advancement in improving user experience and functionality. With refined sign-in processes, push notifications, and extended command support, Codex is set to become a vital tool for power users aiming to harness AI in their coding tasks. As OpenAI continues to innovate and expand Codex’s features, users can anticipate a more integrated and efficient coding experience.

### Perplexity’s Comet AI Browser Update for iOS: Eight Key Enhancements

Two months prior, Perplexity expanded its Comet AI browser from Mac to iPhone and iPad, representing a pivotal advancement in its evolution. Recently, Perplexity introduced a significant update for the Comet app on iOS, presenting eight key enhancements focused on enriching user experience.

#### Overview of Comet

Perplexity’s Comet app empowers users to navigate the web while engaging with AI chatbots, leveraging the internet for contextual assistance. Initially debuted on Mac in July, Comet transitioned to iOS in March, followed by an upgrade for iPad users in April that improved multitasking functionality.

#### New Features in the Latest Update

The most recent update for Comet on iPhone and iPad features the following enhancements:

1. **Phone Number Actions**: Users can now initiate calls, FaceTime, message, or save contacts directly from any page with a single tap.

2. **Refined iPad Sidebar**: The sidebar has been enhanced with a smoother slide animation, a more organized layout, and size adjustments for better window fit.

3. **Finance Deep Dive in a Tab**: Comprehensive financial analyses now open as dedicated browser tabs for more accessible reading.

4. **Search Results Remember Their Place**: Users can navigate away from search results and return without losing their context.

5. **Drag Images into the Assistant**: Users can drag and drop images from any tab directly into the assistant.

6. **Omni-box Adapts to the Page**: The omni-box now adjusts seamlessly to light and dark themes without flickering.

7. **Recently Closed Stays Cleared**: The “Clear All” feature for recently closed tabs now maintains its settings across app restarts.

8. **Deleted Threads Stay Deleted**: Previously deleted threads will not reappear when accessing old links.

Alongside these features, the update includes various crash fixes related to data removal and tab closure, sharper and more stable favicons, cleaner bottom controls on iPhone, and other improvements for a more fluid experience.

#### Availability

Users can download the updated Comet app for iOS from the [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/comet-ai-browser-assistant/id6748622471?uo=4).

This update showcases Perplexity’s dedication to enhancing the functionality and user experience of its AI-driven browsing solution, establishing it as a valuable resource for those wishing to merge AI with everyday web surfing.

**2026 Memorial Day Sales: Incredible Offers on Apple Devices and More**

As Memorial Day nears, prominent retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy are unveiling substantial reductions on sought-after electronics, especially Apple devices. This year’s promotions showcase some of the most remarkable prices we’ve encountered, making it a prime moment for shoppers to upgrade their technology.

### Apple’s 15-inch M5 MacBook Air at Its Lowest Ever

One of the highlighted bargains this Memorial Day is the **15-inch M5 MacBook Air**, which has dropped to an all-time low price of **$1,099.99**, down from its standard price of **$1,299**. This variant, equipped with **16GB of RAM** and **512GB of storage**, is experiencing a discount of nearly **$200** for the first time since its launch in March 2026. This deal is particularly significant as it represents the best available price on Amazon, making it a compelling choice for anyone in search of a new laptop.

### Clearance Deals on the 13-inch M3 iPad Air

Alongside the MacBook Air, the **13-inch 1TB M3 iPad Air** is also offered at a remarkable clearance price of **$1,049**, showcasing a **$400** reduction. This model has been aggressively discounted as Amazon clears its inventory for the forthcoming M4 version. With limited stock remaining, this offer is an outstanding chance for consumers seeking a high-performance tablet without the newest chip.

### Price Cuts on iPhone 17 Pro Max

For smartphone enthusiasts, the **iPhone 17 Pro Max** is currently benefiting from a rare price reduction of **$99**. Offered through Woot, these devices are identified as “pristine” and have never been utilized by customers. While the savings might not be enormous compared to brand new units, it’s a significant opportunity for those aiming to save on Apple’s latest flagship smartphone.

### Affordable 512GB 13-inch M5 iPad Pro

The **13-inch M5 iPad Pro** with **512GB of storage** is also discounted to **$1,349.99**, down from **$1,499**. This price cut signifies nearly **$150 off** and is among the best prices currently available for this model. With its robust M5 processor, this iPad Pro is perfect for professionals and creatives alike.

### New Nintendo Switch 2 Bundle

In the gaming arena, the latest **Nintendo Switch 2: Choose Your Game Bundle** is priced at **$500**, offering up to **$580** in value. This bundle is an excellent option for gamers intending to upgrade their gaming console.

### Sonos Memorial Day Offers

Sonos is also joining the Memorial Day festivities with discounts on various products, including the new **Era 100 SL Speaker**. This marks the first price reduction we’ve seen on this model, making it a fantastic time to improve your home audio experience.

### Accessory and Charging Promotions

Moreover, an array of accessory deals are available, such as Anker’s **Qi2 15W MagSafe power bank** for **$46** and a **Lenovo 5-in-1 USB-C hub** for just **$22**. These accessories can enhance your new devices wonderfully.

### Conclusion

With Memorial Day sales in progress, consumers have a special chance to capitalize on substantial savings on high-demand electronics. Whether you’re in the market for a new MacBook, iPad, or gaming console, now is the ideal moment to explore and enjoy discounts.

As Spotify enthusiasts globally anticipate the return of their classic app icon, the company has unveiled a series of thrilling new functionalities. These comprise AI-driven remix tools, concert ticket reservations, and more.

### Spotify Secures Agreement with Major Label to Authorize Fan-Made Covers and Remixes

Spotify has finalized a groundbreaking licensing deal with Universal Music Group, permitting fan-created music covers and remixes on the platform. This innovative tool will allow fans to produce covers and remixes of their beloved tracks from participating artists and songwriters, utilizing generative AI technology. The effort is aimed at unlocking new revenue channels and improving music exploration.

Spotify characterizes this AI-enabled remix and cover creation tool as a premium add-on for Spotify Premium subscribers. This initiative marks Spotify’s most ambitious AI venture to date, following the launch of an AI DJ feature and a unique Claude connector for music and podcast integration.

### Concert Tickets Are Being Enhanced with Reserved Feature

Besides music creation tools, Spotify is upgrading its concert ticket services with a new function named Reserved. This feature will secure up to two concert tickets for purchase solely for Premium subscribers in the United States. Reserved is tailored for devoted fans, utilizing artist listening history to ascertain eligibility, rather than appealing to casual concert attendees or ticket resellers.

While there are aspects to contemplate regarding the implementation of Reserved, the feature is set to link genuine fans with concert events. Additional details about Reserved can be accessed through Spotify’s official channels.

Spotify has also revealed updates for podcasts and audiobooks, which are part of the comprehensive announcements made during Spotify’s Investor Day 2026.

As users keep an eye on the situation concerning Spotify’s temporary disco ball app icon, these new features indicate the company’s dedication to innovation and improving the user experience on the platform.

### You Are the Product: Comprehending App Tracking Transparency on iOS

As technology progresses, so too do the techniques utilized by businesses to monitor user activity across applications and websites. Apple’s App Tracking Transparency (ATT) system, launched in iOS 14.5, has dramatically transformed the realm of user privacy and data gathering. This article delves into the functioning of ATT, its consequences for user privacy, and how to automatically reject tracking requests on your iPhone.

#### The Effects of App Tracking Transparency

Prior to the adoption of ATT, applications enjoyed unrestricted access to user information, including age, gender, location, and browsing patterns. This data was extremely valuable for advertisers and data brokers, enabling them to construct comprehensive profiles for targeted marketing. However, the advent of ATT mandated that apps seek permission from users before utilizing their device’s advertising identifier (IDFA), a unique marker employed for tracking purposes.

This shift proved particularly harmful to companies like Facebook and Instagram, which depended heavily on user tracking for their advertising frameworks. In 2022 alone, Facebook allegedly incurred a loss of about $12.8 billion due to the constraints imposed by ATT.

#### The Transition to Alternative Tracking Techniques

In reaction to ATT, numerous companies have embraced alternative tracking techniques, such as device fingerprinting and contextual advertising. Device fingerprinting gathers various device-specific data, including screen dimensions, operating system version, and time zone, to establish a unique identifier for tracking. Meanwhile, contextual advertising concentrates on user activity within a single application rather than across several platforms.

Although these techniques are less intrusive than acquiring a user’s IDFA, they still raise privacy issues. Users continue to be at risk from data collection practices that endanger their anonymity.

#### How to Automatically Reject Tracking Requests

For those looking to boost their privacy and eliminate the nuisance of continual tracking notifications, a straightforward solution exists. By modifying a specific setting on your iPhone, you can automatically refuse tracking requests from apps without needing to engage with any prompts.

To accomplish this, adhere to the following steps:

1. Launch the **Settings** app on your iPhone.
2. Go to **Privacy & Security**.
3. Choose **Tracking**.
4. Switch off the option labeled **Allow Apps to Request to Track**.

By deactivating this setting, your iPhone will automatically reply with a “no” to any app that tries to solicit tracking permission. This not only simplifies your experience but also bolsters your privacy by preventing apps from even inquiring for permission.

#### Conclusion

Apple’s App Tracking Transparency framework signifies a major advancement in user privacy, empowering individuals to take charge of their data. By grasping the mechanics of ATT and leveraging the available configurations on your iPhone, you can safeguard your anonymity and enjoy a more private experience while utilizing apps. As the digital environment continues to change, remaining aware of privacy measures is essential for protecting personal information.

Apple TV is poised to transform the sports broadcasting arena by leveraging the iPhone 17 Pro to capture live events. This weekend, the platform will air a Major League Soccer match between LA Galaxy and Houston Dynamo FC, marking the inaugural occasion a major professional sporting event will be filmed entirely on an iPhone.

Apple’s venture into live sports production commenced last autumn with a trial during Friday Night Baseball, where the iPhone 17 Pro was utilized to film a game featuring the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox. Building on this experience, the forthcoming MLS match will highlight the capabilities of the iPhone 17 Pro in a live sports context.

As per Apple’s press release, the match will include a variety of camera perspectives and angles, featuring team warmups, player introductions, and distinctive in-net goal views. The sleek design of the iPhone enables inventive filming techniques that traditional, larger cameras cannot replicate, ensuring a novel viewing experience for fans.

The live broadcast is set for Saturday, May 23, at 7:30 p.m. PT. Viewers can stream the match through an Apple TV subscription, which also provides access to a range of original shows and movies, in addition to sports content without any extra charges. Apple TV is offered for $12.99 per month, with discounts accessible through the Apple One bundle.

This event signifies a notable milestone in sports broadcasting, as Apple continues to delve into the convergence of technology and entertainment.