Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

iPadOS 26.2 Public Beta Now Released: Important New Features and Enhancements

# iPadOS 26.2 Public Beta 1: New Features and Updates

Apple has introduced the first public beta of iPadOS 26.2, following the launch of developer betas. This update features a range of new capabilities and improvements designed to enhance the overall experience for iPad users.

## New Features in iPadOS 26.2 Public Beta 1

The public beta version of iPadOS 26.2 reflects the build that was shared with developers earlier this week, enabling users to discover the latest changes and updates. Here are the key features highlighted in this beta:

1. **Refined User Interface**: The beta offers minor enhancements to the user interface, facilitating smoother and more intuitive navigation.

2. **Improved Performance**: Users can look forward to quicker app startups and enhanced responsiveness, leading to a more fluid experience.

3. **Slide Over Capability**: While Slide Over remains restricted to one app at a time, its reintroduction in iPadOS 26.1 has proven useful for numerous users. There is optimism that upcoming updates may bring multi-app support for better multitasking.

4. **Additional Widgets and Customization Features**: The beta adds more widgets and customization options, enabling users to personalize their home screens to align with their preferences.

5. **Bug Corrections and Stability Improvements**: Like most beta versions, this release addresses various bugs and includes stability enhancements to boost overall performance.

Since this is merely the first beta release, it is expected that Apple will continue to unveil more features and adjustments in future updates. Users are encouraged to remain vigilant for new insights and improvements as the beta program moves forward.

## Conclusion

The iPadOS 26.2 public beta 1 presents a promising preview of the future of iPad capabilities, featuring several new functionalities designed to elevate user experience. As users begin to navigate this beta, feedback and findings will be essential in shaping the final version. For those who have installed the beta, sharing their experiences and insights can aid in the ongoing development process.

Read More
Public Beta Launch for tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, and Other Updates

### tvOS 26.2 and More Launching for Public Beta Testers

Participants in Apple’s public beta program have thrilling updates to check out today, as Apple has unveiled public beta 1 for tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, along with several other major updates including iOS, iPadOS, and macOS 26.2. This rollout allows users the chance to experiment with new features and enhancements before their official launch.

If you wish to experience Apple’s software updates prior to their general availability, the public beta program presents a great opportunity. Users can register for free at

Read More
Apple Unveils Initial Public Beta of iOS 26.2: Main Features and Enhancements

# iOS 26.2 Public Beta: Overview of New Features

Apple has launched the initial public beta of iOS 26.2, providing users with a look at the forthcoming features. This update brings substantial improvements across various apps and functionalities. Here’s an in-depth examination of what’s new.

## Modifications to Sleep Score

Apple has overhauled the Sleep Score feature within sleep monitoring. The top tier, formerly known as Excellent, has been updated to Very High. Furthermore, the standards for each category have been adjusted based on user input indicating that the previous scoring range was excessively broad and inaccurately positive.

[Read more about the change here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/watchos-26-2-sleep-score-changes-apple-watch/)

## Upgrades to Apple Podcasts App

The Apple Podcasts app has undergone a notable upgrade with the addition of AI. With the arrival of iOS 26.2, the app can now automatically create chapters, link to cited podcasts, and gather show links, thereby enhancing the entire listening experience.

[Read more about the updates here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/ios-26-2-includes-three-helpful-upgrades-to-apple-podcasts-app/)

## Redesign of Apple News

Following the substantial redesign of iOS 26, iOS 26.2 enhances the Apple News app further. Users will now discover quick links to popular sections within the app, making navigation more user-friendly.

[Read more about the design change here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/ios-26-2s-apple-news-app-has-a-new-and-improved-design/)

## Live Translation for AirPods in EU

Apple has revealed that the Live Translation feature for AirPods will roll out in European Union countries starting in December, aligning with the anticipated official launch of iOS 26.2.

[Read more about the rollout plans here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/airpods-live-translation-feature-coming-to-the-eu-next-month/)

## Slider for Liquid Glass Lock Screen

A new Liquid Glass slider has been introduced, enabling users to modify the translucency level of the Lock Screen clock. This feature now accommodates various font styles, adding a customized feel to the device’s look.

[Read more about the Lock Screen customization option here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/ios-26-2-adds-liquid-glass-slider-to-customize-your-lock-screen/)

## Alarms and Timers Added to Reminders

iOS 26.2 enhances the Reminders app by adding the capability to trigger alarms for urgent reminders. This functionality provides a more effective notification method compared to standard alerts, ensuring that crucial reminders are not missed. Alarms and timers can also bypass Focus modes, granting users increased flexibility.

Read More
Apple Unveils macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 1 for Developer Evaluation

**macOS Tahoe 26.2 Developer Beta 1: What to Anticipate and How to Install**

Shortly after its counterparts, Apple has unveiled the macOS Tahoe 26.2 developer beta 1. This update comes on the heels of the official launch of macOS Tahoe 26.1 and brings several new features and enhancements that developers are eager to explore.

### What to Anticipate from macOS Tahoe 26.2

The macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta is designed to improve Apple’s continued integration of Anthropic’s MCP support across its platforms. Furthermore, it broadens the functionalities of Image Playground, facilitating integration with additional third-party models beyond ChatGPT. This marks a notable advancement in offering developers increased flexibility and capability in their applications.

The build number for this beta is 25C5031i, and developers are urged to delve into the new features and report their observations.

### How to Install the Latest Beta

To set up the macOS Tahoe 26.2 developer beta 1, adhere to these instructions:

1. **Backup your Mac**: Make sure all your data is securely backed up prior to continuing.
2. **Open System Settings**: Access your Mac’s System Settings.
3. **Go to General ⇾ Software Update**: Locate the Software Update section within General settings.
4. **Click the ‘i’ icon next to Beta Updates**: This will grant you access to beta options.
5. **Select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**: From the dropdown menu in the upper-right corner, pick the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta.
6. **Hit ‘Done’**: Confirm your choice to begin the update process.

Developers are encouraged to share their experiences and any modifications they observe in this beta version in the comments section.

### Accessory Deals on Amazon

For those aiming to enhance their Mac experience, explore accessory deals available on Amazon.

*FTC: We utilize income earning auto affiliate links.*

Read More
Updates in iOS 26.2, Online Access to App Store, and Verification of Gemini Siri Collaboration

# iOS 26.2: New Features and Enhancements

The recent update to Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 26.2, has unveiled a variety of new features that are creating excitement among users and technology aficionados. In a recent conversation, hosts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller delved into these updates, emphasizing several notable changes and newly added functionalities.

## Key Features of iOS 26.2

### Podcast AI Improvements

A highlight of iOS 26.2 is the introduction of enhanced AI functions for the Podcasts app. These improvements are designed to elevate user experience by offering personalized suggestions and smarter search options, enabling users to more easily find new content.

### Elimination of Apple Watch Wi-Fi Sync in the EU

In an unexpected decision, Apple has chosen to eliminate the Wi-Fi syncing feature for Apple Watch users within the European Union. This choice has prompted concerns from users and industry experts, given its effect on the ease of syncing data without needing a direct connection to an iPhone.

### Web-Based App Store Browsing

Another noteworthy update is the debut of a browsable App Store on the web. This feature enables users to search for and discover apps straight from their web browsers, improving accessibility and convenience for those who wish to avoid navigating through their devices.

### Siri’s New Foundation with Google’s Gemini Models

In a strategic alliance, Apple is poised to invest $1 billion annually to Google for access to Gemini models, which will underpin new Siri features. This partnership aims to bolster Siri’s abilities, making it more competitive in the voice assistant arena.

## Happy Hour Plus Observations

In the most recent episode of 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus, Benjamin and Chance also shared their reactions to the unveiling of the new Apple TV and expressed enthusiasm for the launch of Vince Gilligan’s latest series, *Pluribus*. Their conversations offer insights into the changing landscape of Apple’s offerings and the entertainment sector.

## Hosts

– **Chance Miller**
– **Benjamin Mayo**

## Subscribe, Rate, and Review

Listeners are urged to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to support the hosts and keep up with the latest technology discussions.

## 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus

For those interested in exclusive content, the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription provides ad-free episodes, pre- and post-show material, and bonus episodes for $5 per month or $50 annually. Additional details can be found at

Read More
Novel Functionality in the Passwords App of iOS 26 Boosts User Comfort

# Apple’s Passwords App: A Revolutionary Update in iOS 26

Apple’s Passwords app, introduced in iOS 18, has revolutionized how users handle their passwords across devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. As a pre-installed password manager, it has rapidly become an essential tool for numerous users. With the launch of iOS 26, one major improvement has been added: the capability to save login version history.

## The Development of Apple’s Password Management

Prior to the arrival of the Passwords app, Apple provided password management features that were frequently hidden within the Settings app. With the introduction of the Passwords app in iOS 18, users received a more accessible and intuitive interface for managing their passwords. Nonetheless, some users, myself included, faced challenges, especially with passwords being inadvertently overwritten.

## The Problem of Overwritten Passwords

Throughout the past year, I encountered a persistent issue where my passwords would occasionally be unintentionally replaced by new ones. This typically happened when I created a new password but had trouble completing the change on the specific website. As a result, I would have the new login recorded in the Passwords app, while the website still required the old password. This scenario compelled me to endure the cumbersome “Forgot your password?” routine.

## The Resolution in iOS 26

Luckily, iOS 26 resolves this issue effectively. The Passwords app now features a function that keeps a complete version history for all logins. This improvement is especially advantageous for users who have faced similar troubles with overwritten passwords.

When you select a login within the app, a new ‘View History’ button appears, given that there are multiple versions of a password stored. This feature permits users to:

– Review each unique password version
– Check when each password was created
– Delete the history if necessary

This enhancement greatly boosts the functionality of the Passwords app, ensuring that users can effortlessly revert to prior passwords without the inconvenience of resetting them on the website.

## Conclusion

In summary, my experience with Apple’s Passwords app has been favorable since its inception. The new version history feature in iOS 26 augments its efficiency, rendering it an even more dependable tool for password management. For those who have encountered similar obstacles, this update is a much-appreciated improvement that streamlines password management. Have you found the version history feature beneficial in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Read More
Enhancements in Frequent AirPods Pro 3 Problems: Contribute Your Feedback [Poll]

# AirPods Pro 3: An In-Depth Review of Comfort and User Experience

The AirPods Pro 3 have been presented as a notable advancement over their predecessor, the AirPods Pro 2. While numerous users have commended the upgrades, some, including myself, have found the design alterations to be less than comfortable. Nevertheless, my experience has improved over time, leading to a more refined viewpoint on these wireless earbuds.

## Comfort Enhancements Over Time

At first, my experience with the AirPods Pro 3 was somewhat mixed. The AirPods Pro 2 had established a high benchmark for comfort, making them one of my preferred Apple products. Initial impressions indicated that the AirPods Pro 3 would elevate this experience, but I discovered the contrary to be true. Despite Apple’s assertions of an “enhanced fit,” I faced discomfort that was surprising.

After experimenting with different ear tip sizes, I opted for the medium (M) tips, which offered the best acoustic seal without inducing pain. The large (L) tips provided a satisfactory seal but were uncomfortable, while smaller sizes failed to deliver proper sealing. This discomfort lingered for a while, causing me to reconsider the overall fit of the new model.

However, following a few weeks of use, I observed a notable change. The discomfort that had marred my initial experience started to lessen. While I still favored the fit of the AirPods Pro 2, the AirPods Pro 3 no longer felt overly invasive. They had become more bearable, indicating that an adjustment period might be essential for certain users.

## User Experiences and Anecdotal Insights

Interestingly, I learned from other users that their comfort levels improved over time with the AirPods Pro 3. Despite my early doubts, it seems I might have required a longer adjustment phase than expected. This insight has ignited curiosity regarding the experiences of others with the latest model.

To collect additional insights, a survey was conducted to evaluate whether users found the AirPods Pro 3 comfortable and if their views evolved over time. The findings could offer valuable information for prospective buyers and those contemplating an upgrade.

## Conclusion

In summary, while the AirPods Pro 3 may not have initially fulfilled my comfort expectations, my experience has significantly improved with ongoing use. The shift from the AirPods Pro 2 to the new model may necessitate an adjustment period for some users. As more feedback is compiled, it will be intriguing to observe how others assess the comfort and overall experience of the AirPods Pro 3.

Read More
Current Offers: M4 MacBook Air for $750 (Best Price Ever), Apple Pencil Pro Beginning at $67, Beats USB-C Cables from $9, and Additional Options

**Black Friday 2025: Unmatched Savings on Apple Products**

With Black Friday on the horizon, retailers are unleashing remarkable discounts, led by Amazon, which is providing record low prices on various sought-after Apple products. In particular, the M4 MacBook Air series has experienced incredible price reductions, presenting an excellent chance for shoppers to invest in premium technology.

### M4 MacBook Air Series: Unrivaled Discounts

Amazon has unveiled generous price cuts on the M4 MacBook Air models, with prices beginning at just **$750**. The entry-level variant, boasting 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, is currently listed at **$749.99**, reflecting a **$250 price drop** from its usual cost of **$999**. This marks the lowest pricing ever noted for this model, making it a compelling choice for anyone in search of a new laptop.

The price reductions also apply to the 13-inch and 15-inch configurations, which have experienced similar markdowns. The 15-inch M4 MacBook Air is now available for **$949.99**, also showing a **$250 discount**. A variety of colors, including Midnight, Silver, and Starlight, are up for grabs, though some shades may be out of stock.

### Apple Pencil Pro: A Unique Chance

Alongside the MacBook Air offers, the Apple Pencil Pro is currently priced at **$67**, a **48% discount** from its typical price of **$129**. This deal is part of Amazon’s Resale program, where items are listed as “Used: Like New.” This pricing stands as one of the lowest ever seen for this accessory, which works with multiple iPad models, including the latest M5 iPad Pro.

### Apple Watch Series 10: Prime Day Discounts Return

Amazon has reinstated Prime Day pricing for the Apple Watch Series 10, with markdowns approaching **$120**. The 46mm version is presently available for **$309.99**, down from its initial price of **$429**. The smaller 42mm model is also discounted, providing an excellent opportunity for those wishing to upgrade their wearable devices.

### Accessory and Charging Offers

In tandem with the major product savings, Amazon is featuring a variety of accessories and charging solutions at lowered rates. This encompasses noteworthy savings on Beats USB-C cables, with discounts reaching as high as **50%**.

### M4 Mac Mini: Pre-Black Friday Offers

The M4 Mac mini is experiencing price drops as well, with models available for as little as **$499**. Discounts of up to **$150** are available on premium configurations, making it an opportune time for customers looking to purchase a desktop setup.

### Conclusion

With Black Friday 2025 fast approaching, the current offerings on Apple products are exceptional. From the M4 MacBook Air to the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Watch Series 10, consumers have a rare opportunity to acquire high-quality technology at drastically slashed prices. As these promotions are anticipated to persist throughout the holiday season, now is the moment to seize these deals before they’re gone.

Read More
New Apple Podcasts Functionality in iOS 26.2 Boosts App Attractiveness

### iOS 26.2 Upgrades to Apple Podcasts: Automatic Chapter Generation

Apple Podcasts has been a fundamental part of the podcast industry for some time, but as competitors such as YouTube and Spotify have emerged, it has encountered notable challenges in retaining its audience. Nevertheless, the recent iOS 26.2 update brings features that enhance the built-in podcast application, especially for users who value the ease of well-structured content.

#### Automatic Chapter Generation

One of the exceptional upgrades in iOS 26.2 is the automatic creation of podcast chapters. This improvement utilizes artificial intelligence to examine episode content and generate chapter markers without any contribution from podcast creators. This is particularly advantageous as many podcasts traditionally lack chapter markers, aiding listeners in navigating episodes more effectively.

Chapters offer a structured summary of a podcast episode, enabling users to jump to the segments that capture their interest most. This feature not only enriches the listening experience but also simplifies the process for users seeking specific content in longer episodes.

#### The Contribution of AI and Transcripts

The automatic chapter implementation is possible due to Apple’s previous introduction of a transcript feature. By merging transcripts with AI summarization capabilities, Apple can efficiently produce relevant chapter markers based on the spoken material of each episode. This advancement allows listeners to now benefit from chapters in podcasts that previously did not offer this functionality, enhancing their overall engagement.

#### User Experience and Reactions

Numerous users have shown enthusiasm for the new chapter feature, highlighting that it greatly enhances the usability of Apple Podcasts. The capability to navigate episodes effortlessly without depending on creators to supply chapter markers is revolutionary. This feature, paired with the transcript function, positions Apple Podcasts as a formidable competitor against alternative podcast applications such as Overcast and Castro.

Despite some persistent dissatisfaction with the app’s interface and features such as Up Next, the rollout of automatic chapter creation and transcripts has increasingly made it challenging for users to transition to other podcast platforms.

#### Conclusion

The advancements in iOS 26.2, especially the automatic chapter generation feature, represent a notable advancement for Apple Podcasts. By harnessing AI technology, Apple is not only enhancing the functionality of its podcast application but also addressing user requests for a more organized and user-friendly listening environment. As the podcast industry continues to change, these updates could assist Apple in reclaiming some of its lost market presence and reinforcing its status as a premier platform for podcast consumption.

Read More
Apple Highlights Four Applications Created by Acclaimed Students

Apple has revealed the reinstatement of its yearly Swift Student Challenge, which is set to begin on February 6 for a span of three weeks. This program motivates students to delve into app development, offering new resources such as the “Develop in Swift” tutorials and “Meet with Apple” code-along sessions designed to assist participants in their challenge preparations. Alongside this announcement, Apple has showcased four groundbreaking apps developed by three previous winners of the Swift Student Challenge.

### Four Apps from Three Former Swift Student Challenge Winners

Apple Newsroom has applauded the accomplishments of Brayden Gogis, Adrit Rao, and Sofia Sandoval, motivating students to join the forthcoming challenge.

**Brayden Gogis** possesses a keen passion for game development and has created two remarkable apps:

1. **[Solisquare](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/solisquare/id1449713068)**: This application provides a contemporary take on the traditional card game, featuring swift gestures and a user-friendly interface.

2. **[Joybox](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/joybox-positive-social-media/id6450216759/)**: A social networking platform enabling users to form groups and collectively add photos, stories, and songs to a shared “Joybox,” which can be unveiled together at a specified time.

**Adrit Rao** concentrates on accessibility through technological means. He crafted the app **[Signer](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/signer-fingerspelling/id6736890263?l=ru)**, employing Core ML, Apple’s machine learning platform, to convert sign language gestures into spoken language. This app seeks to improve communication for members of the Deaf community, especially in day-to-day situations where acquiring sign language may not be practical.

**Sofia Sandoval**, a recent recipient of the Swift Student Challenge, developed **[Cariño](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cari%C3%B1o/id6744262639?uo=2)**. This app encapsulates the charm of sending handmade cards, allowing users to design digital cards utilizing templates she created in Procreate on the iPad with an Apple Pencil, nurturing connections with loved ones over distances.

For additional details regarding the experiences of Gogis, Rao, and Sandoval, you can explore the complete stories in the

Read More