Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### High-end AirPods Pro 3 Model Anticipated to Retail Around $299

Apple is preparing to broaden its AirPods range with a new, premium edition of the AirPods Pro 3 this year. This expected model is rumored to include major enhancements, such as infrared (IR) cameras aimed at supporting new Apple Intelligence features.

A standout element anticipated with this new iteration is the incorporation of a more sophisticated version of Siri, potentially enabling users to interact with the device hands-free by inquiring about their environment. This function could improve the overall user experience, making it more intuitive and fluid.

Leaker Instant Digital has previously disclosed that Apple intends to introduce two distinct models of the AirPods Pro 3—one featuring cameras and one lacking them. This distinction is anticipated to address varying consumer demands and preferences.

According to Instant Digital, the cost for the AirPods Pro 3 with cameras is expected to be “over 2000 yuan,” which presently equates to roughly $286 in U.S. dollars. Given that the price is likely to surpass this figure, an estimated cost of around $299 appears plausible, reflecting a $50 hike from the standard AirPods Pro 3 model.

Apple currently presents two variants of its AirPods 4 at different price levels: the basic model without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) priced at $129, and the enhanced ANC version at $179. It seems that Apple may adopt a similar pricing approach for the AirPods Pro 3, maintaining a $50 difference between the two variants.

As consumers look forward to the formal announcement, the question lingers: would you consider paying $299 for new AirPods Pro equipped with cameras and advanced AI features?

### Aqara Smart Lock U400: An Advancement in Smart Home Innovations

The Aqara Smart Lock U400 has officially launched at CES, presenting a new dimension of ease with its incorporation of the Home key functionality in Apple Wallet. This cutting-edge technology allows for automatic door unlocking as users approach, removing the necessity for manual engagement.

#### Ultra-Wideband Technology

Central to the U400 is ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, which improves the accuracy of location tracking. This enables the lock to identify when an authorized user, holding an iPhone or wearing an Apple Watch, is in proximity. Cathy You, Aqara’s Senior Vice President of Global Business and Strategy, highlighted the importance of this development, indicating that it signifies a move towards a more intuitive and fluid smart home environment.

#### Improved Security and Convenience

UWB technology outperforms conventional Bluetooth by employing Time of Flight (ToF) and Angle of Arrival (AoA) metrics to effectively monitor user movements. This guarantees that the lock engages only when an authorized user is approaching from outside, minimizing the chances of unintentional unlocks when users are indoors or merely walking by.

#### Various Unlocking Methods

The U400 provides a range of unlocking options, including:
– **Physical Key**: For standard access.
– **Fingerprint Recognition**: Fast and secure entry for registered users.
– **Passcodes**: Choices for recurring or one-time use, perfect for granting guest access.

In the event of a power outage, the lock can be temporarily powered by an external power bank, making sure access is maintained.

#### Compatibility and Requirements

To make use of the U400, users must have a Thread-compatible hub, such as the Apple TV 4K, second-generation HomePod, or HomePod Mini. The lock works with iPhone models starting from the iPhone 11 and later, operating on iOS 18.5 or newer, in addition to Apple Watch Series 6 and later. It’s important to note that the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) and iPhone 16e do not have the required UWB chip for compatibility.

#### Availability and Pricing

The Aqara Smart Lock U400 is available for purchase in the USA for $270. It can be found on Amazon US, Amazon Canada, and select Apple stores in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, with plans to arrive at US Apple stores later this month.

In conclusion, the Aqara Smart Lock U400 signifies a noteworthy progression in smart home access technology, merging convenience, security, and advanced features to transform user interaction with home security systems.

### iPhone 17e: A Cost-Effective Option on the Horizon

The iPhone 17e is in the works as a more economical variant of the iPhone 17. Recent leaks indicate that its release might coincide closely with last year’s iPhone 16e, which launched on February 28.

#### Production Timeline

As per a post by leaker Smart Pikachu on Weibo, the iPhone 17e is anticipated to commence production shortly after CES concludes this week. If Apple initiates mass production in mid-January, a launch in late February could be expected, paralleling the iPhone 16e’s release schedule.

#### Key Features

The iPhone 17e is believed to showcase several significant features:

– **6.1-inch Display with Dynamic Island**: This feature enriches the user interface by delivering a more engaging experience.
– **A19 Chip**: The addition of this chip implies enhanced performance and efficiency.
– **No ProMotion Support**: Unlike its premium counterparts, the iPhone 17e may lack ProMotion technology for smoother scrolling.

Further rumors suggest that the iPhone 17e will also support MagSafe, incorporate a new Center Stage front camera, and boast slimmer bezels compared to the iPhone 16e.

#### Conclusion

The iPhone 17e appears to be a promising entry-level option, particularly given the appeal of the iPhone 17 series. As production intensifies, it will be intriguing to observe how the market reacts to this more budget-friendly choice.

### Steve Jobs Memorabilia Auction: An Extraordinary Chance for Collectors

A major auction showcasing memorabilia from Steve Jobs’ life has now commenced online, providing a rare insight into Apple’s formative years and the personal belongings of its co-founder. The auction, organized by RR Auction, is scheduled to end on January 30, 2024, and features an assorted collection of items that underscore the history and impact of one of technology’s most pivotal figures.

#### Featured Items

Among the prominent items up for bids is the original desk from the garage where Apple was established, a meaningful artifact of tech heritage. Bidders can also vie for the very first check signed by Jobs and his partner Steve Wozniak, along with personal relics like Jobs’ high school bow ties. The auction includes various Apple-related memorabilia, with opening bids starting at $100, appealing to a broad spectrum of collectors.

Noteworthy items consist of:

– **Apple 1 Prototype**: The earliest known version of the Apple 1, with a starting price of $50,000 and an estimated worth exceeding $500,000.
– **First Apple Check**: The inaugural check issued by Apple, beginning at $25,000, also believed to be valued at around $500,000.
– **Apple 1 Byte Shop Wooden Case**: Once owned by Jobs, this piece starts at just $500, with an approximation of $5,000.
– **Steve Jobs’ Desk**: Opening bids at $5,000, with projected worth of $25,000 or more.
– **Personal Posters**: Several posters belonging to Jobs are available starting at $200.

The auction also features lesser-known items, such as an Apple 1 heatsink and a ribbon cable, both prized due to their association with Jobs.

#### Background and Significance

Numerous items in this auction are being offered by John Chovanec, Jobs’ stepbrother, who received much of the belongings from Jobs’ childhood space. Chovanec reminisces about a touching moment when Jobs recounted the story behind the early Macintosh development in that very location, emphasizing the emotional ties these artifacts possess.

One particularly intriguing item is a $500 check made out to circuit board designer Howard Cantin, who contributed to the Apple 1 board. Cantin chose a cash payment instead of stock options, a choice that, in retrospect, could have resulted in considerable financial outcomes.

#### Conclusion

This auction offers a distinctive chance for collectors and enthusiasts of Apple and Steve Jobs to acquire a fragment of tech history. With a collection ranging from the iconic to the personal, the auction encapsulates not just Jobs’ legacy, but also the origins of a company that revolutionized the technology industry. As the auction date draws near, increased interest is anticipated, marking it as a significant occurrence in the realm of memorabilia collecting.

Samsung has introduced a prototype of an innovative folding display that is expected to be featured in the forthcoming iPhone Fold. This advancement arises as Apple strives to develop a folding device characterized by a display that does not exhibit a visible crease, a challenge that this new technology has reportedly succeeded in overcoming.

### Apple’s Pursuit of a Creaseless Display

Apple has a long-standing practice of monitoring market trends and debuting its products only after confirming they adhere to its high standards. The much-anticipated iPhone Fold has been under development for several years, with Apple allegedly awaiting a display devoid of a visible crease. This choice has led to an extended wait, potentially stretching to six or seven years following the launch of the initial folding Android smartphone.

The primary cause of this delay is Apple’s stringent requirement for an impeccable display. The company assigned its display collaborator, Samsung, the task of creating a panel that would remain crease-free when opened. This presented a major challenge, as Samsung had not yet accomplished this feat with its own folding devices.

Reports suggest that Samsung successfully developed a creaseless display to meet Apple’s approval last year. This achievement was so intricate that Apple had to engage its own design engineers to aid in the development process.

### This is Possibly the iPhone Fold Display

At the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Samsung Display exhibited the new folding screen, asserting that it showcases no visible crease. The prototype display is quite striking, as even upon close inspection, there are no indications of a crease. In contrast, a juxtaposed image with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 emphasizes the notable differences between the two displays.

Although a video shared by SamMobile reveals a minor crease, the overall look of the new display corresponds with the anticipated aspect ratio of the iPhone Fold. The display was momentarily displayed at Samsung’s booth before being taken down, indicating it was not meant for public exposure yet.

### How Interested Are You?

With the prospect of this new display being incorporated into the iPhone Fold, consumer enthusiasm is likely to surge, even if the device carries a steep price. The excitement surrounding the iPhone Fold continues to escalate as Apple prepares to delve into the folding smartphone arena with a product that fulfills its stringent criteria.

In summary, the creation of a creaseless folding display signifies a noteworthy achievement for both Apple and Samsung, potentially establishing a new benchmark for future smartphones.

### The Debate Over macOS Tahoe App Icons

In late 2023, the app icons launched in macOS Tahoe encountered substantial criticism from both users and reviewers. Numerous commenters labeled the icons as “awful” and “objectively poor,” which resulted in a divided reaction in a poll by 9to5Mac, where readers reflected highly varied opinions on the new design.

#### Background and Design Guidelines

Software engineer Nikita Prokopov brought attention to a significant flaw with the Tahoe icons, noting that they conflict with the principles set forth in Apple’s own Macintosh Human Interface Guidelines from 1992. These guidelines cautioned against the clutter that arises from having individual icons for each menu item, deeming such designs “unattractive.” Instead, Apple promoted a minimalist design, proposing that a reduced number of icons would improve usability.

Prokopov demonstrated this argument by sharing an image from the guidelines, juxtaposing the “unattractive” menu filled with icons against a sleeker, more efficient design. He contends that although screen resolution and clarity have improved, the primary function of icons—assisting users in quickly finding functions—has not changed. He argues that overloading menus with icons reduces their effectiveness, making it difficult for any single icon to be prominent.

#### Discrepancies and Ambiguities

The criticism goes beyond the number of icons themselves. Prokopov also pointed out variations in icon use across different applications. For example, the same function, like “New,” is represented by five different icons in various apps, causing confusion among users. Additionally, he highlighted cases where identical icons represent completely different functions, such as the icon for creating a new note in the Notes app being the same as the “edit address” icon in the Contacts app.

#### Recommended Strategies

In his blog post, Prokopov proposes that a more effective method would resemble the initial design strategies employed by Microsoft, wherein icons were designated for the most commonly used functions. He recommends decreasing the quantity of icons, combined with the application of color coding to improve clarity and usability. His post is abundant with examples and possible enhancements, making a strong argument for a reassessment of the current icon design in macOS Tahoe.

#### Summary

The conversation surrounding the macOS Tahoe app icons underscores a crucial intersection of design ideology and user experience. As Apple progresses with its software, the input from users and experts like Prokopov will be vital in influencing future versions of macOS. For those keen on a thorough analysis and proposed enhancements, Prokopov’s blog post presents a plethora of insights worth examining.

### Apple @ Work: The Future of AI with Apple Silicon

In the swiftly changing realm of technology, Apple has established itself as a frontrunner, especially with the launch of Apple Silicon. This groundbreaking architecture represents not only a significant enhancement in hardware performance but is also set to be a fundamental element in the creation of local artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. A recent episode of Apple @ Work delved into the ramifications of Apple Silicon for the future of AI, emphasizing the obstacles presented by current IT tools in managing this emerging technology.

#### The Power of Apple Silicon

Apple Silicon signifies a considerable leap in computing capability, allowing devices to carry out complex tasks more efficiently and effectively. This capacity is especially vital for local AI applications, which demand considerable processing power to assess data and make instantaneous decisions. Unlike conventional cloud-based AI solutions, local AI capitalizes on the device’s hardware to execute computations, minimizing latency and improving privacy by retaining data on the device itself.

#### Challenges for IT Management

Though Apple Silicon provides extraordinary potential for local AI, it simultaneously introduces challenges for IT departments. Existing IT tools and management systems are often not designed to meet the specific requirements of these novel devices. Organizations must evolve their strategies to guarantee they can successfully deploy, oversee, and secure Apple devices that incorporate Apple Silicon.

#### Mosyle: The Solution for Apple Device Management

As enterprises maneuver through the intricacies of incorporating Apple Silicon into their operations, Mosyle stands out as a crucial ally. Mosyle is the sole Apple Unified Platform that integrates all essential solutions to effortlessly deploy, manage, and safeguard Apple devices. With more than 45,000 organizations depending on Mosyle, it has demonstrated itself as a reliable solution for preparing millions of Apple devices for use with minimal effort and at a competitive price.

Mosyle’s platform is tailored to meet the particular needs of businesses employing Apple technology, ensuring they can fully leverage the capabilities of Apple Silicon while maintaining comprehensive management and security measures.

#### Conclusion

The future of AI is local, and Apple Silicon is leading this shift. Nonetheless, to completely benefit from this technology, organizations need to arm themselves with the appropriate tools and approaches. With Mosyle, companies can confidently harness the potential of Apple Silicon, ensuring they are ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead in the sphere of local AI.

For those keen on discovering how Mosyle can improve their Apple device management, an extended trial is available to experience firsthand the comprehensive solutions provided.

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### Snapseed Camera: A Revival of Creativity for iOS Users

In June, Google made an unexpected comeback in the photography app market by re-launching Snapseed, but solely for iOS users. The new version, 3.11, includes an exciting feature: the Snapseed Camera, crafted to boost creativity and individual style for iPhone photographers.

#### Highlights of the Snapseed Camera

The Snapseed Camera centers around the ideas of creativity and precision, enabling users to capture photos using a range of preset film filters. These filters draw inspiration from vintage film stocks, adding a nostalgic feel to digital photography. The filters on offer include:

– **KP1**: Inspired by Kodak Portra 400
– **KP2**: Inspired by Kodak Portra 160
– **KG1**: Inspired by Kodak Gold 200
– **KE1**: Inspired by Kodak E200
– **FS1**: Inspired by Fuji Superia 200
– **FS2**: Inspired by Fuji Superia 800
– **FP1**: Inspired by Fuji Pro 400h
– **AG1**: Inspired by Agfa Optima 200
– **AS1**: Inspired by Agfa Scala 200
– **PD1**: Inspired by Polaroid 600
– **TC1**: Inspired by Technicolor

Alongside these filters, users can access their saved Looks and Edits, infusing a personal element into their photography.

#### Interface and User Experience

The camera viewfinder in Snapseed showcases a skeuomorphic design, including a rewind button animation that triggers when users switch between film styles. Users can further tailor their experience by choosing from six color themes: Editor, Dusk, Negative, Steel, Haze, and Depth. Flash controls are conveniently positioned on one side of the viewfinder, while the bottom row features options to return home and switch between front and rear cameras.

A key feature of the Snapseed Camera is that while the viewfinder presents the chosen style and intensity, grain effects are applied only after the photo is captured, ensuring a clear preview during shooting.

#### Availability and Updates

The Snapseed Camera is accessible through a Control Center shortcut or via Camera Control settings on newer iPhone models. Since its re-launch, Snapseed for iOS has undergone frequent updates, improving its capabilities and user experience. However, an updated version for Android users is currently absent, which has disappointed many.

The Snapseed Camera provides a delightful and completely free way to dive into photography, reminiscent of the early days of Instagram and Hipstamatic, making it an attractive choice for both novice and experienced photographers.

In summary, the Snapseed Camera represents an important advancement in the progression of mobile photography apps, offering users creative instruments that honor the art of photography while integrating modern technology.

Apple launched iPadOS 26.2 and macOS Tahoe 26.2 last month, bringing notable enhancements to Wi-Fi performance for certain devices. Users with compatible Macs and iPads might notice improved Wi-Fi speeds and better file transfer options.

MacRumors initially reported these upgrades, emphasizing changes in Apple’s platform deployment guide. With the updated systems, devices that are Wi-Fi 6E compatible can now take advantage of a maximum channel bandwidth of 160MHz on 5GHz networks, up from the former 80MHz limit. This advancement enables Wi-Fi 6E devices to reach throughput near peak 6GHz speeds without needing to connect to a 6GHz network. However, it’s crucial to understand that Macs will not gain from this enhancement if they’re linked to 5GHz routers constrained to 80MHz.

These upgrades result in quicker Wi-Fi speeds and higher throughput, which is especially useful for activities like large file uploads and downloads.

Devices that support Wi-Fi 6E comprise:

– MacBook Air released in 2024 or later
– MacBook Pro released in 2023 or later
– iMac released in 2023 or later
– Mac mini released in 2023 or later
– Mac Studio released in 2023 or later
– Mac Pro released in 2023 or later
– iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation), or later
– iPad Air 11-inch (M2), iPad Air 13-inch (M2), or later
– iPad mini (A17 Pro) or later

For comprehensive details on Wi-Fi specifications and supported bandwidth, users may consult Apple’s support article on its website.

For the first time in five years, the MacBook Pro is said to be getting a major redesign later this year, bringing substantial feature enhancements. This expected transformation has sparked enthusiasm among users, though certain elements may not resonate with everyone.

### M6 MacBook Pro Will Become Thinner as Part of ‘Complete Redesign’

Since 2021, the MacBook Pro has maintained a solid reputation, primarily due to the introduction of Apple silicon and the reinstatement of pro-oriented ports. Nevertheless, veteran Mac users remember the issues brought forth by the earlier design, which debuted in 2016 under Jony Ive’s direction. This version favored style over practicality, leading to a thinner and lighter device but with significant downsides:

1. The new butterfly keyboard suffered from reliability problems, such as sticky keys.
2. The elimination of all ports apart from USB-C constrained connectivity options to achieve a slim design.

This contentious design endured until 2021, much to the frustration of many users.

Currently, rumors indicate that Apple is gearing up to unveil a sleeker MacBook Pro in 2026 as part of a thorough redesign. The upcoming M6 MacBook Pro is projected to be not only lighter but also include an OLED display without a notch, touch capabilities, and possibly a C2 cellular modem. Such upgrades could mark one of the most significant evolutions for the MacBook series in years.

However, the idea of a thinner design raises concerns for some users. The triumph of the M6 model will depend on how effectively Apple balances the quest for a more elegant profile with the necessity to preserve key features. If the new design compromises ports, performance, or battery longevity, it might alienate professional users reliant on these elements.

There is optimism that Apple will steer clear of repeating the errors of the 2016 model, but only time will tell the success of this redesign.

Are you worried about the rumored adjustments to the MacBook Pro? Express your opinions in the comments.