Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Tech Updates**

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### AirPods Pro 3: Improved Features and Enhanced Findability

AirPods Pro 3, available now for a limited period at $199, bring forth several notable enhancements compared to their predecessor, the AirPods Pro 2. One of the key advancements is the superior ability to find lost earbuds, a frequent issue for users.

#### Second-Gen Ultra Wideband Chip

The AirPods Pro 3 come with Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, a significant upgrade from the U1 chip utilized in the AirPods Pro 2. This new chip enables Precision Finding via the Find My app, allowing users to track their AirPods from greater distances.

Precision Finding is a feature that offers step-by-step directions to the precise location of your AirPods Pro 3. With the second-gen UWB chip, the effective range for locating misplaced AirPods has expanded by 1.5 times compared to the earlier model. While the U1 chip supported Precision Finding from approximately 35-50 feet, practical tests have indicated that the new UWB chip can function effectively from distances of 150-200 feet.

#### Compatibility Requirements

It’s crucial to understand that the enhanced Precision Finding features of the AirPods Pro 3 necessitate an iPhone 15 or later. This requirement arises because these newer iPhone models also feature the upgraded UWB chip, essential for the extended range capability.

#### Real-World Performance

Users have shared favorable feedback with the Find My app when attempting to locate their AirPods Pro 3. For example, one user successfully utilized the app to track down their AirPods, which were concealed in a backpack on the other side of the house. The app delivered precise directions, successfully leading them directly to the misplaced earbuds.

#### Conclusion

The upgraded Ultra Wideband chip in the AirPods Pro 3 is just one of the numerous motivations to consider upgrading from older models. With enhanced Precision Finding features, users can experience increased reassurance knowing their AirPods are easier to find if they become lost.

### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break: Discounts and Offers on Apple Products

In this edition of 9to5Toys Lunch Break, we showcase remarkable savings on in-demand Apple items, such as the AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and M4 MacBook Air versions. These offers create a perfect chance for shoppers seeking to enhance their technology at lower costs.

#### AirPods Pro 3 Savings

The AirPods Pro 3 are currently priced at **$199.99**, reduced from the standard price of **$249**. This is among the lowest prices noted since the holiday period, making it a compelling choice for those after a premium audio experience. The deal originated in Target’s weekly advertisement and is also part of Best Buy’s current promotions. Due to the popularity of these earbuds, it’s wise to move quickly, as prices may change during the week.

#### Discounts on Apple Watch Series 11

Amazon has introduced a **$100 discount** on all Jet Black Apple Watch Series 11 variants, with prices beginning at **$299**. This offer follows the recent AirPods Pro 3 discount and highlights Amazon’s dedication to maintaining competitive pricing on Apple’s newest wearables. The Apple Watch Series 11 is recognized for its cutting-edge health monitoring capabilities and smooth integration with iOS devices, making it a highly desired accessory.

#### M4 MacBook Air Clearance Sales

For individuals seeking a laptop, Amazon has replenished M4 MacBook Air models with discounts reaching **$300 off** the initial prices for some 15-inch varieties. The M4 MacBook Air continues to be a robust option for users who do not need the latest M5 model but still desire an efficient device. The clearance prices include a range of configurations and colors, offering a flexible selection for various user preferences.

#### Extra Accessories and iPad Offers

Beyond the featured products, Apple’s current-generation iPad has returned to **$299**, presenting a budget-friendly choice for families or casual users. This iPad is perfect for light browsing, streaming, and daily tasks without the high cost associated with premium models.

#### Apple Watch Ultra 3 Savings

Finally, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is now available at a **$99 discount**, with both standard and Milanese Loop models presented at lower prices. This is one of the best chances to acquire Apple’s high-end smartwatch since its release, appealing to those interested in advanced features in a smartwatch.

### Conclusion

With these notable price reductions on sought-after Apple products, it’s an ideal moment for consumers to think about upgrading their technology. Whether it’s the AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, or M4 MacBook Air, these offers provide considerable savings and enhance the overall user experience across various applications.

### Apple Frames 4: A Significant Enhancement for Framing Screenshots with Apple Product Bezels

Federico Viticci at *MacStories* has rolled out a notable upgrade to his Apple Frames shortcut, enabling users to frame their screenshots using authentic Apple product bezels. This latest iteration, Apple Frames 4, is characterized by Federico as a “complete reimagining” of the shortcut, featuring enhanced speed, compatibility with the newest Apple devices, and improved customization options.

#### Streamlined Functionality

A key transformation in Apple Frames 4 is the simplification of its process. The shortcut has been condensed from over 800 steps to around 300, leading to a quicker and more dependable experience. This enhancement is due to a more sophisticated logic that adapts to the growing array of Apple screen sizes and display resolutions.

#### New Features

Apple Frames 4 brings forth several thrilling features:

1. **Support for Frame Colors**: Users are no longer confined to standard frame colors. This update enables customization of frame colors based on device and orientation, allowing users to choose from all the colored bezels officially available from Apple.

2. **Device Variants**: The shortcut now supports various device models, granting users the option to select between models like the iPhone 16 Pro or iPhone 17 Pro for particular frames.

3. **Proportional Scaling**: A major improvement is the proportional scaling feature, which resolves a common problem where screenshots from differing devices would merge without maintaining their physical proportions. Apple Frames 4 now preserves the correct proportions when combining screenshots from devices such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPad Pro.

#### Command-Line Interface (CLI)

Alongside the revamped shortcut, Federico has created a command-line interface (CLI) for Apple Frames. This CLI is tailored for developers and marketers who regularly handle screenshots, optimizing their workflow. The CLI can be incorporated into app development routines, enabling users to generate framed screenshots straight from the Terminal on their Mac.

#### Conclusion

Apple Frames 4 signifies a major progress in how users can frame their screenshots, making it an indispensable tool for both everyday users and professionals. The update not only improves functionality but also introduces new customization options that suit individual tastes. Users can download the new Apple Frames 4 shortcut and discover more about the CLI on the *MacStories* website. This tool is integral to numerous workflows, including those at *9to5Mac*, and its latest update is eagerly awaited by the community.

Apple has recently refreshed its iWork suite for Mac users by eliminating the previous versions of its productivity apps—Pages, Keynote, and Numbers—from the App Store. This adjustment results in the availability of only the latest versions that work with Apple Creator Studio, a newly introduced package of professional applications targeted at creatives.

### iWork Apps Now Exclusively Offered in Creator Studio Versions on the Mac

Earlier this year, Apple rolled out Creator Studio, featuring a selection of professional-grade applications such as Final Cut Pro, Pixelmator Pro, and Logic Pro. In conjunction with these, Apple has integrated unique features into its complimentary iWork apps—Pages, Keynote, and Numbers—boosting their utility for users.

While the enhancements to the iWork applications were implemented on iPhone and iPad as upgrades to the existing App Store editions, the scenario on the Mac was more intricate. Initially, Apple continued to offer the legacy iWork applications alongside the new versions that included Creator Studio features. However, this has recently evolved.

As of today, Apple has officially eliminated the previous versions of Pages, Keynote, and Numbers from the App Store. Users who had previously downloaded these applications can still retrieve them via their download history, but newcomers will only see the Creator Studio-compatible versions for download.

It is crucial to mention that Pages, Keynote, and Numbers are still free to download on the Mac. Users are not required to have a Creator Studio subscription to access most functionalities. Nevertheless, the latest versions do feature prompts that encourage users to subscribe to Creator Studio in order to unlock further features.

This shift raises an inquiry for users: Are you still using the old iWork applications, or have you moved to the new versions? The change highlights Apple’s dedication to merging its productivity tools with its extensive array of creative applications, potentially improving the user experience for those involved in creative tasks.

### iPhone Fold: Production Setbacks and Launch Outlook

A recent report from Digitimes reveals that the production of Apple’s eagerly awaited iPhone Fold has faced setbacks, with mass production now anticipated to commence in August instead of the initially scheduled July. Nevertheless, Apple is still dedicated to launching the iPhone Fold in 2026, as confirmed by Bloomberg.

#### Production Obstructions

The schedule for the iPhone Fold’s production has been a subject of considerable speculation. Reports from Nikkei Asia indicated that Apple confronted significant engineering obstacles that could delay the device’s first shipment by multiple months. However, Bloomberg countered these assertions, claiming that the foldable iPhone remains on course for a release during Apple’s customary iPhone launch period in September.

Digitimes’ most recent report verifies that while Apple is indeed encountering production challenges, these difficulties are not substantial enough to indicate a major delay in the iPhone Fold’s launch. Typically, new iPhones enter mass production in June, enabling Apple to assemble inventory prior to the September release. The rescheduling of the iPhone Fold’s mass production to August implies that Apple will have a shorter timeframe to ready itself for initial demand, potentially complicating consumer purchases of the device at launch.

#### Consequences of the Delay

The postponement in mass production raises apprehensions about Apple’s capacity to fulfill initial demand for the iPhone Fold. With an abbreviated production timeline, the device still needs to pass several essential testing phases, including Design Validation Testing (DVT) and Production Validation Testing (PVT), before commencing full-scale manufacturing. The recent delays in the Engineering Validation Testing (EVT) phase could further strain the schedule.

Insiders within the supply chain have suggested that while mass production has been postponed, Apple is still targeting a 2026 unveiling. This indicates that the company is operating under a more constrained timeline, which may pose additional risks as the launch date approaches.

#### Market Predictions

9to5Mac’s assessment indicates that Apple plans to unveil the iPhone Fold alongside the iPhone 18 Pro in September. However, the expected supply of the iPhone Fold at launch is projected to be quite limited due to the production holdups. Although Apple has encountered various hurdles in the iPhone Fold’s development, many analysts agree that these problems will not lead to a major delay in the launch.

The ongoing ambiguity surrounding the iPhone Fold’s release has ignited conversations among consumers and industry observers alike. Many are left questioning whether Apple will manage to deliver the device on schedule or if additional delays might be forthcoming.

#### Conclusion

As the launch of the iPhone Fold draws near, the situation remains dynamic. While Apple is intent on debuting the device in 2026, the recent production delays have brought forth uncertainties regarding availability and consumer access at launch. The upcoming months will be critical for Apple as it tackles these obstacles and readies itself for one of its most groundbreaking product launches to date.

# iOS 26.5 Beta 2: Features and Modifications

Apple has recently launched the second beta version of iOS 26.5 intended for developers, subsequent to two versions of the original beta. This update signifies the conversion of the second beta into the initial public beta for iOS 26.5.

## Major Features and Modifications in iOS 26.5

Although this update does not bring any AI capabilities powered by Gemini, it does feature a number of significant adjustments:

### 1. Enhancements to Apple Maps
A key new functionality is the introduction of the “Suggested Places” feature in Apple Maps. This upgrade is designed to elevate user experience by offering recommendations during searches.

### 2. RCS End-to-End Encryption
Apple is advancing its initiative to implement end-to-end encryption for Rich Communication Services (RCS) within the Messages app, which is presently undergoing beta testing.

### 3. Live Activities for Third-Party Accessories
In Europe, Apple is exploring the ability to send Live Activities notifications to third-party accessories, bolstering device integration within the Apple ecosystem.

### 4. Subscription Payment Alternatives
iOS 26.5 may unveil new subscription options, permitting users to execute monthly payments for annual subscriptions at a reduced rate in exchange for a commitment.

For a detailed summary of further features and minor updates in iOS 26.5, users can check out 9to5Mac’s thorough roundup.

## Conclusion

The rollout of iOS 26.5 beta 2 highlights Apple’s dedication to enhancing user experience through novel features and improved performance. As beta testing proceeds, users can anticipate additional updates and enhancements in the forthcoming public release.

Apple is deploying the second batch of developer betas for macOS 26.5 and its related systems. Below are the specifics.

## Initial developer beta was sparse on new features

A fortnight ago, Apple launched macOS 26.5 beta 1, along with iOS 26.5 beta 1, iPadOS 26.5 beta 1, and its other operating platforms.

Unlike macOS 26.4, which reintroduced the compact tab view in Safari and added the Charge Limit feature, it appears that the updates in macOS 26.5 will be confined to features across the ecosystem.

This encompasses suggested locations in Apple Maps, new purchasing options in the App Store, and additional enhancements.

Apple released the initial public beta of macOS 26.5 later that week, featuring the same build as the first developer beta.

We’re already exploring the system to discover if Apple has reserved any new functionalities for this update.

## Instructions to install the new beta

Here’s how to install the macOS Tahoe 26.5 developer beta 2:

1. Backup your Mac
2. Open System Settings
3. Navigate to General ⇾ Software Update
4. Click the ‘i’ icon adjacent to Beta Updates
5. From the dropdown menu in the upper right, choose the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta
6. Press ‘Done’

Have you noticed any alterations in today’s betas? Share your observations in the comments.

# Apple Unveils iPadOS 26.5 Beta 2 and More

Apple has recently rolled out new beta iterations of its forthcoming 26.5 software updates, indicating a notable advancement in the evolution of its operating systems. The latest version features beta 2 for iPadOS 26.5, along with other platforms such as iOS 26.5, macOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and HomePod 26.5.

## Summary of the New Beta Releases

At present, these beta versions are accessible solely to developers, with public beta releases anticipated soon. The initial wave of 26.5 betas brought several intriguing features, including:

– **RCS End-to-End Encrypted Messaging**: Updates to the Messages app now incorporate RCS (Rich Communication Services) for secure communications.
– **Recommended Locations in Apple Maps**: A fresh feature offering suggestions for popular destinations.
– **Minor Tweaks**: Various minor adjustments and enhancements throughout the operating systems.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to highlight that the expected improvements for Siri’s AI functions were absent in the first beta release. Sources indicate that major changes to Siri may be planned for the upcoming iOS 27.

## Anticipations for Upcoming Releases

Drawing from Apple’s past release trends, the public debut of iPadOS 26.5 and the other 26.5 updates is projected for around mid-May. Users who have installed iPadOS 26.5 beta 2 or any other 26.5 version are invited to share their feedback and any new features they encounter.

As Apple continues to enhance its software, both developers and users are keen to observe how these updates will improve the functionality and user experience of their devices.

As part of iOS 26, Apple introduced an upgraded experience for airline boarding passes in Apple Wallet. This enhancement improves the design and functionality of boarding passes, offering users a more interactive and informative experience.

Leading airlines such as United and Southwest were among the first to implement this new boarding pass feature, and now American Airlines has officially followed suit. The recent update to the American Airlines app for iPhone showcases the new features available to users. According to the release notes, the boarding pass now boasts a modern look with additional functionalities including integration with Apple Maps, destination guides, and quick access shortcuts to the app. Users can also track their luggage and directly access the Find My app from their boarding pass.

The updated boarding pass experience in Apple Wallet shows all crucial flight information, including detailed airport data through Apple Maps, the ability to share flight details with others, and quick access to track AirTag-equipped luggage via the Find My app. This launch with American Airlines signifies a major achievement, as it is the largest airline in the US by annual passenger volume.

Currently, the updated boarding passes in Apple Wallet are supported by:

– American Airlines
– United Airlines
– Southwest Airlines
– Air Canada

Apple has also suggested that other airlines like Delta, JetBlue, Jetstar, Lufthansa Group, Qantas, and Virgin Australia are anticipated to adopt this feature down the line.

In contrast, Delta initially rolled out support for the new iOS 26 boarding passes but subsequently reverted to the previous implementation due to bugs and performance challenges, leaving uncertainty about when or if they will bring back the feature.

With the new improvements, travelers can anticipate a more visually engaging and functional boarding pass experience, enhancing their journey through the airport to be smoother and more enjoyable.