AllYouCanTech

watchOS 26 Brings Three Key Enhancements for Apple Watch Faces

The watch face ranks as one of the key features of Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 brings significant enhancements to watch faces in three primary areas. Here’s what’s fresh.

## #1: Brand new watch faces

As is common with major updates to watchOS, Apple’s latest version introduces a collection of [brand new watch faces](https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/09/watchos-26-adds-four-brand-new-watch-faces-including-an-ultra-exclusive/).

watchOS 26 presents four new faces in total. According to Apple’s release notes:

– **Exactograph** is a contemporary reinterpretation of a classic regulator watch that differentiates hours, minutes, and seconds for improved time accuracy.
– **Flow** features Liquid Glass numerals that bend a liquid orb of color in response to the movements of your wrist.
– **Waypoint** serves as a real-time compass, showing your position relative to saved locations in Maps or points of interest (Available on Apple Watch Ultra).
– **Hermès Faubourg Party** comprises animated shorts that emerge based on the time of day or motions featuring various characters (Available on Apple Watch Hermès).

It’s always exciting to have additional watch face selections available, and I’m particularly fond of the new Flow and Waypoint faces introduced this year.

## #2: Enhancements to existing faces

Several watch faces you’re already familiar with received updates in watchOS 26 as well.

The Photos face, regarded by Apple as its most popular choice, [received two enhancements this year](https://9to5mac.com/2025/10/29/watchos-26-upgrades-apple-watchs-most-popular-face-in-two-ways/):

1. Liquid Glass time
2. Featured photos option

In keeping with the system-wide Liquid Glass aesthetic, there’s a new ‘Glass’ color option for the face’s clock that allows more of your photo to shine through. Selecting ‘Featured’ as your image source guarantees that many of the best photos in your library will be displayed.

In addition to the Photos face upgrades, Apple has also incorporated ticking seconds functionality with the always-on display into [many more faces](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/09/watchos-26-more-apple-watch-faces-using-series-10s-upgraded-display/).

Always-on seconds functionality was introduced last year with Apple Watch Series 10, but only a limited number of watch faces supported it at the time. Now, it has expanded to a wider range of hardware and software.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11 both support ticking seconds in always-on mode, and the roster of compatible faces [has significantly increased](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/09/watchos-26-more-apple-watch-faces-using-series-10s-upgraded-display/).

## #3: Watch face ‘hints’

Upon installing watchOS 26 on your Apple Watch, you may start to notice a distinctive UI element on your watch face.

A new feature called ‘hints’ will show up at the bottom of your screen, resembling a Liquid Glass complication.

Hints provide recommended apps and actions, linking them to the Smart Stack.

Here’s how they function, [according to Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/06/watchos-26-delivers-more-personalized-ways-to-stay-active-and-connected/):

> In watchOS 26, the Smart Stack refines its prediction algorithms by integrating additional contextual data, sensor data, and user routine data to generate Smart Stack hints, which serve as proactive prompts for useful actionable suggestions. Crafted from Liquid Glass, Smart Stack hints will appear on the display as soft visual signals. For instance, a hint for Backtrack might pop up when a user is in a secluded area without connectivity, or a hint for a Pilates session may surface when a user arrives at a studio at the usual hour.

The Smart Stack has previously provided suggested data and actionable prompts, but you would need to scroll through your Apple Watch’s Digital Crown to access them manually.

By placing these suggestions directly on the watch face, Apple aims to make them more visible and, hopefully, more useful.

Which new watch face features from watchOS 26 have you been enjoying on your Apple Watch? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Best Apple Watch accessories

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.

Apple TV is anticipated to launch a new series featuring Jason Momoa, as per reports.

**‘Nomad’ Poised to Become Jason Momoa’s Next Significant Apple TV Series**

Jason Momoa is reinforcing his position as a key player on Apple TV, with the revelation of a new series named *Nomad*. This signifies Momoa’s third major endeavor with the streaming platform, succeeding his performances in *See* and *Chief of War*.

When Apple TV debuted in 2019, one of its cornerstone series was *See*, which featured Momoa in a dystopian environment. Despite not reaching the projected success, the show cultivated a loyal following and improved with each successive season. The series wrapped up with its third season in 2022.

Following a short break, Momoa made his comeback to Apple TV with *Chief of War*, which launched earlier this year. The series received praise from critics, achieving a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes and consistently ranking high among content on Apple TV.

At this moment, Apple is crafting *Nomad*, a drama co-developed by Kurt Sutter, famed for *Sons of Anarchy*, alongside Chris Collins. The series will delve into the brutal underbelly of New Zealand’s outlaw biker scene, concentrating on a warrior torn between two fates and lives. Collins, who boasts an impressive background including *John Wick Chapter 3* and *The Wire*, will take on the role of showrunner.

Although no formal announcement has been made about the series, it remains in its developmental infancy. Nevertheless, with a robust creative team and Momoa’s involvement, *Nomad* is anticipated to be a prominent addition to Apple TV’s roster.

Apple TV is offered for $12.99 per month and features popular shows like *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, *Silo*, and *Shrinking*.

9to5Mac Daily: November 12, 2025 – Launch of Digital IDs in Apple Wallet

### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Daily Apple News Hub

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping up with the newest news and trends is essential, particularly for Apple fans. **9to5Mac Daily** functions as a vital podcast that provides daily summaries of the most important happenings within the Apple community. With fresh episodes recorded each weekday, listeners can effortlessly stay informed about advancements in the tech scene.

#### How to Access the Podcast

Listeners are able to access **9to5Mac Daily** on multiple platforms, including:
– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts application](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 additional podcast apps.

#### Sponsorship and Deals

The podcast is brought to you by **Backblaze**, a cloud storage solution that guarantees users won’t lose their data. Listeners can apply the code “**9to5daily**” during checkout for a 20% discount or can explore the service for free.

#### Highlights from Episodes

Every episode of **9to5Mac Daily** touches on a variety of subjects important to Apple users, including product updates, software launches, and news from the industry. The podcast not only educates but also captivates listeners with conversations about the significance of these changes.

#### Benefits of Subscribing

By subscribing to **9to5Mac Daily Plus**, listeners can gain:
– Ad-free episodes
– Access to exclusive content

This subscription model improves the listening experience, enabling fans to delve deeper into the issues that interest them the most.

#### Engaging with the Community

Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback. They can connect via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or rate the podcast on services like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and

Apple Store Unveils Lengthened Holiday Return Policy for Every Item

Apple is preparing for the holiday season, which includes rolling out a yearly change: an expanded holiday return window for products purchased at the Apple Store.

### Starting today, returns for product purchases are available until early January

Today, Apple is introducing holiday decorations in retail locations and the online Apple Store.

In addition to these festive updates, the company has launched its holiday return policy.

According to Apple’s website:

> Products eligible for return at the Apple Store Online that are received between November 12, 2025, and December 25, 2025, may be returned until January 8, 2026. Please be aware that all other terms and conditions stated in the Apple Store Online Sales and Refunds Policy remain applicable to these products. iPhone purchases financed through carriers like T-Mobile or Verizon do not qualify and follow the standard return policy. All purchases made after December 25, 2025, are subject to the Standard Return Policy.

Typically, Apple Store purchases allow for a 14-day return window. However, during the holiday season, Apple extends this return period.

Purchasing a new product at the Apple Store today means, with the new January 8 cutoff, you will have almost two full months for a return.

The aim is to enable holiday shoppers to start gift buying without concerns about the recipients’ ability to return items if needed.

As always, Apple Store returns feature the following limited exceptions, many of which have become largely obsolete in 2025 except for gift cards:

– Apple Gift Cards (includes previous generation Apple Store Gift Cards and App Store & iTunes Gift Cards)
– Opened software
– Electronic Software Downloads
– Software Up-to-Date Program Products (software upgrades)
– Apple Developer products (membership, technical support incidents, WWDC tickets)

If you’re looking for a new Apple product, make sure to explore our detailed 2025 gift guide for the best bargains.

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Apple Unveils Digital ID Function in Wallet Using US Passport

Apple has officially introduced the eagerly awaited new Digital ID feature in Apple Wallet, initially revealed at WWDC and now being made available to users throughout the United States. This cutting-edge feature utilizes users’ U.S. passports, offering a secure and convenient method for creating and presenting identification.

### How to Establish Digital ID in Wallet Using Your Passport

Setting up the Digital ID is akin to adding a driver’s license to the Wallet application. Here are the steps:

1. Launch the Wallet app on your iPhone.
2. Select the Add (+) button in the upper-right corner.
3. Pick “Driver’s License or ID Cards” from the available options.
4. Tap “Digital ID” and adhere to the on-screen prompts.

During the setup, users will be asked to capture a photo of their passport and read the embedded chip on the back of the passport using their iPhone. A selfie will also be necessary for confirmation, alongside a series of facial and head movements to validate identity. The complete verification process is designed to be finalized within a few minutes, and once verified, the Digital ID will show up in the Apple Wallet app.

Apple stresses that the entire procedure is secure and private. Digital ID data is encrypted, and all passport information is stored on the device, ensuring that Apple cannot access users’ details or monitor when and where IDs are utilized. Biometric authentication through Face ID or Touch ID ensures that only the owner can present their Digital ID, and only the essential information is shared during transactions.

### Where Can You Utilize Digital ID in Apple Wallet?

The initial rollout of Digital ID acceptance is taking place at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports across the United States, although it is restricted to domestic travel. Users will still need to carry their physical identification for international flights.

To present the Digital ID, users can double-click the side or Home button to access Apple Wallet, select Digital ID, and position their device near an identity reader. They can then review the requested information and authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID.

Apple plans to broaden the acceptance of Digital ID to encompass select businesses and organizations, enabling users to verify age and identity online and within apps. For example, users will be able to utilize their Digital ID to confirm age for alcohol purchases on platforms like Uber Eats.

Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, expressed enthusiasm about the launch, underscoring the security and convenience it provides to users.

### Conclusion

The introduction of Digital ID in Apple Wallet signifies a notable progression in digital identification solutions in the United States. By enabling anyone with a passport to create a Digital ID, Apple is bypassing the sluggish adoption of mobile driver’s licenses by states. Users can start the process of adding their Digital ID in the Wallet app today, paving the way for a more secure and efficient method of managing identification.

Apple Retail Locations Initiate Holiday Decoration Deployment to Celebrate the Beginning of the Season

Apple is officially welcoming the holiday season by introducing a longer product return period and festive decorations throughout its online and retail spaces. This year’s holiday theme showcases lively orange and blue highlights, echoing the iPhone 17 Pro’s Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue color choices.

The online Apple Store has been refreshed to capture this seasonal ambiance, while brick-and-mortar locations are also embellished with holiday decor. This early November launch indicates Apple’s preparedness for the holiday shopping surge.

Despite rumors regarding possible new product introductions aligning with the holiday season, it seems that Apple might not reveal any new items today. Nonetheless, there are hopes for the debut of new models, including the Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini 2, and AirTag 2, before the year’s end. Traditionally, Apple has unveiled products in December, although such instances are uncommon.

As the holiday season unfolds, shoppers are left contemplating whether Apple will showcase any new products this year or if they will need to wait until 2026 for the next major announcement.

Current Offers: Enjoy Savings of Up to $550 on M4 Pro MacBook Pro, $540 on iPhone 16 Pro Max, Along with Discounts on Nomad Find My Cards and Mac mini

### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break Deals

The newest offers from 9to5Toys are here, showcasing substantial savings on a range of Apple products as part of the current Singles’ Day promotions. Below are some of the highlighted bargains:

#### 1. **M4 Pro MacBook Pro – More than $550 Off**
Best Buy is presenting an outstanding deal on the **14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro**, now priced at **$1,446.99 shipped**. This open-box item is in superb condition and comes with a complete 1-year Apple warranty. The original retail value for this model is $1,999, making this savings of over **$550** particularly impressive.

#### 2. **M4 iPad Pro – $250 Price Reduction**
Costco has reduced the price of the **11-inch 256GB M4 iPad Pro** to **$749.99 shipped**, reflecting a nearly **$250 discount** from its initial price of $999. This offer is mainly for Costco members, although non-members can still buy it with a nominal fee. This is among the best prices seen for this model, which has hardly dropped below $150 off since its release.

#### 3. **1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max – $540 Off**
Amazon is selling the **1TB Black Titanium iPhone 16 Pro Max** at a record-low price of **$1,059**, thus marking **$540 off** the standard price of $1,599. This renewed premium model is backed by a 1-year warranty and a 90-day return policy, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a high-quality refurbished device.

#### 4. **M4 Mac Mini – Up to $110 Off**
The **M4 Mac Mini** is also experiencing discounts of up to **$110 off**, presenting an affordable option for users in search of a compact yet powerful desktop solution.

#### 5. **Nomad Find My Tracking Card Pro – $39**
Nomad has introduced its new **Find My Tracking Card Pro**, now available for **$39**. This gadget is designed to assist users in tracking their belongings effortlessly.

### Additional Deals on Accessories and Charging
– **Anker 140W 4-Port USB-C Laptop Charger**: Now available for **$66** (Reg. $100).
– **Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)**: Early Black Friday price reduction.
– **Dbrand’s 2025 Black Friday Sale**: Up to **50% off** on skins and accessories.

These deals showcase some of the most competitive prices on sought-after Apple products and accessories, making it an excellent time for consumers to benefit from these specials.

Evaluation of Even Realities G2: Intelligent Eyewear with an Authentic Appearance and Sensation

### Even Realities G2 Smart Glasses: An In-Depth Look

Amid the hustle of CES 2025, the Even Realities G1 glasses piqued my interest, combining aesthetics with practicality that I found attractive. Fast forward to the present, Even Realities has launched their G2 glasses alongside the R1 smart ring, aiming to significantly improve the user experience. Here’s everything you should know about these groundbreaking products.

#### Updated Design and Battery Performance

The G2 glasses maintain the stylish look of their predecessor while being lighter, coming in at just 36 grams compared to the 50 grams of the Meta Ray-Bans. The upper part of the lens frame has been subtly flattened, and the user interaction has transitioned from a touch nub to an advanced touch pad control system situated on each temple tip. This upgraded system enables users to swipe, slide, scroll, tap, double-tap, and long-press for UI interaction, all while remaining unobtrusive.

The battery life is outstanding, providing up to two days from a single charge, with the case offering an extra 6-7 charges, allowing users up to two weeks without needing a recharge.

#### Display Technology Insights

The G2 glasses come equipped with a display on each lens that delivers notifications, teleprompter features, live translations, and stock updates. The display employs a green matrix font and has been enhanced with HAO 2.0 (Holistic Adaptive Optics) technology, which sharpens and brightens images, rendering them more lifelike even during motion. The new 3D spatial display organizes information into layers, ensuring a seamless user interface.

#### Smart Functionalities

The G2 glasses operate similarly to an Apple Watch for your eyes, providing discreet notifications without breaking your concentration. Notable features include:

– **Teleprompt**: Upload scripts or notes to view directly on the lenses.
– **Maps**: Navigate without needing to check your mobile device.
– **Conversate**: An AI-driven assistant for real-time conversations.
– **Translate**: Supports 29 languages for immediate communication.
– **QuickList and Dashboard**: Keep tasks and calendar entries in sight.

All processing is handled through the related app on your smartphone, keeping the glasses sleek and lightweight.

#### The R1 Smart Ring

To address the G1’s limitations in intuitive interaction, the R1 ring serves as a remote controller for the G2 glasses. Constructed from zirconia ceramic and stainless steel, it includes a touch-sensitive panel allowing users to swipe and tap. Additionally, the ring monitors wellness metrics and offers a Productivity Score to help maintain balance throughout the day.

#### Concluding Thoughts

The Even Realities G2 glasses mark a considerable improvement over the G1, taking into account user feedback while boosting functionality and retaining an elegant design. They provide a passive wearable experience, enabling users to gain from notifications and tools without active involvement.

#### Pricing & Availability

The Even G2 Smart Glasses and R1 Smart Ring are currently available on the Even Realities website. For a limited period, purchasers can enjoy a 50% discount on the R1 and additional accessories with their G2 purchase. The G2 starts at $599, while the R1 is available for $249, offered in grey, brown, and green.

What do you think about the current landscape of wearables? Have you experimented with smart glasses? Let’s have a conversation!

PowerWash Simulator and Other Titles Debuting on Apple Arcade Next Month

### New Titles Arriving on Apple Arcade on December 4

Apple has revealed an enticing selection of new titles scheduled for release on Apple Arcade on December 4. This reveal features beloved games like **PowerWash Simulator**, **SpongeBob Patty Pursuit 2**, and more, broadening the platform’s eclectic gaming selection.

#### Upcoming Titles

The following games will be available on Apple Arcade:

– **PowerWash Simulator**
– **SpongeBob Patty Pursuit 2**
– **Cult of the Lamb Arcade Edition**
– **Subway Surfers+**
– **NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja STORM+**
– **Glassbreakers: Champions of Moss**

**PowerWash Simulator** stands out as a prominent entry. Originally a hit on other systems, its arrival on Apple Arcade is eagerly awaited by enthusiasts. The game provides a unique and rewarding experience of cleaning various surfaces using a power washer, optimized for mobile play with touch controls and gyroscope functionality.

#### Features of PowerWash Simulator

Apple describes PowerWash Simulator as follows:

> “PowerWash Simulator delivers the gratifying experience of erasing dirt and grime to mobile, available exclusively through Apple Arcade. Enhanced with touch controls and gyroscope functionality, players can wash away their concerns with the calming sounds of high-pressure water. Arcade users will also have access to popular packs and tasks at launch, including the SpongeBob SquarePants special pack and bonus tasks, with more special packs to follow after launch at no extra charge.”

#### Subscription Details

Apple Arcade is offered for **$6.99 per month**, granting access to a diverse range of games across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. All titles on the platform are free of advertisements and do not have in-app purchases. Moreover, Apple Arcade is included in the Apple One bundle, providing additional value to subscribers.

#### Conclusion

With the introduction of these new titles, Apple Arcade continues to enrich its gaming catalog, catering to a wide range of interests and tastes. Whether you enjoy simulation games, action-packed adventures, or nostalgic characters, there’s something for everyone in this upcoming release. Which new title are you most eager to try?

iOS 26.2 Brings Improved Notification Capabilities for iPhone Users

### iOS 26.2: Fresh Features and Notification Upgrades

iOS 26.2 is scheduled for launch next month, introducing several changes and enhancements to Apple’s system applications, along with a prominent new notification feature designed to improve user experience.

#### iPhone Screen Flash for Notifications

The rollout of iOS 26.2 brings an intriguing new function that makes the iPhone screen flash brightly when a notification arrives. This feature complements the existing option that activates the camera flash for notifications, which has proven to be a helpful accessibility tool for those who are hard of hearing.

To utilize this new capability, users can head to the Settings app, then navigate to Accessibility > Audio & Visual > Flash for Alerts. This section will present options to enable both the LED Flash and the new ‘Screen’ flash feature. When the ‘Screen’ flash setting is turned on, the iPhone’s display will illuminate fully for a quick moment upon receiving a notification, providing a clear signal, particularly when the always-on display is inactive.

This feature could be a significant alternative for users who do not possess an Apple Watch and depend on visual notifications for alerts.

#### Additional Significant Features in iOS 26.2

Beyond the new notification functionality, iOS 26.2 brings several improvements across different applications:

– **Reminders**: The app now features ‘Urgent’ alarms, helping users prioritize important tasks more efficiently.
– **Podcasts**: AI-generated chapters have been incorporated, simplifying navigation through episodes for users.
– **Apple News**: The app has seen design updates for a more smooth user experience.
– **Apple Music**: Users can now access offline lyrics, enriching the music listening experience.

These enhancements showcase Apple’s dedication to boosting user accessibility and overall utility within its ecosystem.

As the launch date nears, users are encouraged to investigate these new features and ponder how they may improve their everyday engagement with their devices.