Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

iPhone 17 Pro Disassembly: Examination of Vapor Chamber Architecture and Scratch Resistance Attributes

Following the iPhone Air disassembly, iFixit has performed an in-depth analysis of the iPhone 17 Pro, uncovering a combination of enhancements and a significant drawback regarding repairability. This article outlines the main discoveries from the disassembly.

### Inside the Vapor Chamber

The disassembly reveals that Apple has structured the internals of the iPhone 17 Pro predominantly in the upper third of the device, leaving the lower section for the battery, USB-C port, and Taptic Engine. A major point of interest is the newly implemented vapor chamber cooling system, which iFixit examined thoroughly. The vapor chamber incorporates a metal lattice and copper indentations that support a constant cycle of boiling, evaporating, and condensing liquid, effectively managing heat dissipation.

### Repairability Setbacks

One of the primary issues noted in the iPhone 17 Pro is the lack of a dual-entry design, hindering access to components like the battery from the rear glass. Nonetheless, a positive aspect is the addition of a removable battery tray, fastened with Torx screws for the first time. Although the battery utilizes Apple’s electrically de-bonding adhesive, the new metal casing improves safety and handling compared to earlier models.

### Is Scratchgate Real?

Soon after the release of the iPhone 17 Pro, users began reporting problems with scratches and scuffs, raising questions about the device’s resilience. iFixit looked into these reports and validated that the anodization process has some technical shortcomings, especially around the camera bump, rendering it more prone to scratches. Their investigation showed that the anodized coating can chip off under a hardness assessment, revealing the aluminum underneath.

### Repairability Score: 7/10

Despite the scratch concerns, the iPhone 17 Pro garnered a repairability score of 7/10, aligning with the iPhone Air. The addition of a removable battery tray somewhat counterbalances the constraints of the front-access-only design.

For a thorough examination of the disassembly, you can watch iFixit’s complete video breakdown.

For further information, check out the full teardown

Read More
iPhone 17 Users Encounter Problems with Wi-Fi and CarPlay Connectivity

A number of iPhone 17 and iPhone Air users have taken to Reddit and various support forums to express their frustrations regarding Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity issues. This has also resulted in stability challenges with CarPlay for some users. Here’s the current information we have.

On Reddit, those affected report that their iPhone 17 disconnects from Wi-Fi temporarily and then reconnects immediately upon unlocking their device or viewing the Lock Screen. These users also mention connectivity troubles with CarPlay, which depends on a Wi-Fi link, such as sluggish performance and audio interruptions.

The connectivity issues also affect Bluetooth for some iPhone users, who indicate they are dealing with sporadic connectivity issues with their AirPods and other devices.

While numerous complaints about this issue are visible on Reddit and other platforms, it’s challenging to determine the exact extent of the problem considering the vast iPhone user population.

“This is the entire WiFi crashing.. it doesn’t matter which network, or even if you’re linked to a network, it still drops. It’s just that if you’re not connected to a network, you won’t notice the drop. However, if you delve into settings and replicate the issue, you’ll observe that the WiFi goes to ‘off’ for a brief moment, then reconnects.”

Interestingly, many iPhone 17 and iPhone Air users claim that these issues arise only when they are wearing an Apple Watch.

“I am facing the identical issue when the watch is on my wrist and unlocked. It also impacts wireless CarPlay. When the watch is worn, and I unlock my iPhone, CarPlay disconnects and reconnects. This makes sense as wireless CarPlay is also reliant on Wi-Fi. I also possess a Vision Pro, and interestingly, when I unlock that with my iPhone close by, it also disconnects the Wi-Fi.”

The issue seems to be related to software rather than a hardware defect in the new iPhone 17 models. All four newly launched iPhone versions incorporate Apple’s new N1 wireless connectivity chip, but this can be resolved through software and is not indicative of any hardware issue. Initial reports suggest that performance improves significantly with iOS 26.1, which began beta testing with developers earlier this week.

“I upgraded just my iPhone to the 26.1 B1. It’s only been 20 minutes, but under the same conditions that led to my WiFi and Bluetooth being switched off and on, it has not occurred. This suggests that Apple, either on purpose or by accident, resolved the problem. It also indicates that this is very likely a software issue that can be fixed.”

“I have now also updated my watch to 26.1 B1. Still cannot replicate the issue. Furthermore, I utilize the ‘unlock with iPhone’ feature. Everything functioned well! Additionally, my AirPods aren’t disconnecting and Bluetooth performance has been stable.”

Apple is also anticipated to soon release iOS 26.0.1 with bug fixes for iPhone users. Ideally, this update will resolve the Wi-Fi connectivity issues for iPhone 17 and iPhone Air users.

Have you encountered any issues with your iPhone 17 or iPhone Air? In all my evaluations of the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air series, I haven’t succeeded in reproducing any of these issues. Share your experiences in the comments.

Read More
Three Essential Insights from Apple’s Latest Seminar on Natural Language Processing

### Highlights from Apple’s Workshop on Natural Language and Interactive Systems 2025

Several months prior, Apple organized a two-day gathering focused on the most recent developments in natural language processing (NLP). The Workshop on Natural Language and Interactive Systems 2025, which took place on May 15-16, included a variety of presentations and publications centered on three primary research domains: Spoken Language Interactive Systems, LLM Training and Alignment, and Language Agents. Scholars from esteemed institutions and corporations showcased their newest research, illustrating the cooperative efforts between academia and industry.

#### Key Research Areas

1. **Spoken Language Interactive Systems**
2. **LLM Training and Alignment**
3. **Language Agents**

### Notable Presentations

#### 1. AI Model Collapse & Detecting LLM Hallucinations
Yarin Gal from the University of Oxford led a presentation addressing the dangers linked to training large language models (LLMs) on synthetic data sourced from the web. Gal underlined the necessity for innovative tools to distinguish between AI-generated and human-generated material to reduce the chances of model collapse. In his follow-up study, he suggested a technique for identifying LLM hallucinations by generating multiple responses and grouping them based on semantic meaning to evaluate the model’s certainty in its answers.

#### 2. Reinforcement Learning for Long-Horizon Interactive LLM Agents
Kevin Chen from Apple showcased an agent trained through Leave-one-out proximal policy optimization (LOOP). This agent was tailored to manage complex tasks, enhancing its precision via iterative learning from prior actions. Chen pointed out the agent’s training across varied scenarios, though it encountered challenges in handling multi-turn user engagements.

#### 3. Speculative Streaming: Fast LLM Inference Without Auxiliary Models
Irina Belousova, an Engineering Manager at Apple, introduced a technique named speculative decoding. This method enables smaller models to produce high-quality responses by creating candidate sequences that are subsequently validated by larger models. The approach decreases memory requirements and streamlines deployment by reducing the intricacy of managing several models during inference.

### Conclusion

The Workshop on Natural Language and Interactive Systems 2025 highlighted notable progress in NLP, emphasizing the collaborative endeavors of researchers from diverse institutions and organizations. For those keen on delving into the complete array of studies and presentations from the event, a detailed list of videos and papers can be found on Apple’s machine learning website.

Read More
Significant Enhancement to iPhone Mirroring on Mac in macOS Tahoe

**iPhone Mirroring in macOS Tahoe: Improved with Live Activities Support**

iPhone Mirroring, a functionality introduced on the Mac last year, has undergone substantial improvements in macOS Tahoe, especially with the launch of Live Activities support. This feature showcases Apple’s dedication to unifying its hardware ecosystem through flawless Continuity features.

**Live Activities Integration**

Following the update in macOS Tahoe, users can now view Live Activities from their iPhone straight on their Mac. This integration is intended to be automatic and user-friendly. Live Activities will show up in the Mac’s menu bar, enabling users to track real-time updates without having to switch devices.

Depending on the space available in the menu bar, users will either notice a small Live Activity icon or a streamlined view of the Live Activity itself. Clicking this icon expands the view to reveal complete details, mirroring the iPhone experience.

**Interactivity with Live Activities**

Beyond simply observing Live Activities, users can engage with them directly from their Mac. A double-click on the Live Activity will launch the relevant app on the iPhone, effectively mimicking the tap function found on the iPhone’s interface. This feature boosts the usability of iPhone Mirroring, making it a more essential component of the Mac experience.

**Continuity Features and Ecosystem Integration**

The incorporation of Live Activities into iPhone Mirroring highlights Apple’s continuous efforts to enhance the synergy between its devices. By refining Continuity features, Apple ensures that users can transition effortlessly between their iPhone and Mac, optimizing multitasking efficiency.

For those keen on managing Live Activities settings for iPhone Mirroring, Apple offers an extensive support document. Moreover, updates on additional enhancements to Live Activities can be accessed through various tech news sources.

In summary, the advancements in iPhone Mirroring in macOS Tahoe, particularly with Live Activities support, mark a significant progression in how Apple devices interact with each other, strengthening the company’s emphasis on a unified user experience.

Read More
The Advantages of Craft: The Productivity Application Apple Aficionados Have Been Looking Forward To

# Craft: The Ultimate Productivity Tool for Apple Users

If you cherish your Apple devices, you anticipate that your applications will have the same level of refinement. The reality? Many productivity tools still fall short. Some are robust but cumbersome, while others appear sleek but lack functionality. Craft fills this void with its innovative Liquid Glass update, enhancing usability across iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Each interaction feels swift, fluid, and organic — as though the app was specifically tailored for the hardware it operates on.

## Designed for Apple. Updated for Liquid Glass on Day 1.

Craft isn’t merely functional on Apple platforms; it exudes the feeling of being crafted specifically for them. Whether you’re using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, every version of Craft is fine-tuned to harness the unique capabilities of the device in your hand. The seamless experience is deliberate, evident in how cohesive and fluid it feels across your Apple ecosystem.

With the new Liquid Glass design update, Craft unveils a lighter, more streamlined visual language that imparts a contemporary, premium aesthetic to every platform:

– **On iPhone:** Streamlined navigation and quick actions allow for capturing ideas and organizing your day with just a tap.
– **On iPad:** Touch gestures, Apple Pencil support, and a larger workspace provide an immersive, distraction-free environment for writing and organizing.
– **On Mac:** A focus on keyboard use and high performance creates a natural and seamless experience for intensive tasks and long-form writing.

The Liquid Glass design is operational across all platforms, ensuring a consistent, sophisticated interface wherever you work. Regardless of the device, the experience feels integrated — and distinctly Apple.

## Offline, On-Device AI

In contrast to most AI tools, Craft’s assistant operates offline, directly on your device — powered by Apple’s Foundation Models. This allows you to write, summarize, rephrase, and translate without needing to send your content to the cloud. It’s swift, secure, and perpetually accessible — even when flying or in areas without signal.

You can opt for either Apple’s on-device models or cloud-based alternatives based on your preferences. Regardless, Craft allows you to maintain complete control over your content — a rarity in today’s productivity environment. This is AI that honors your privacy and workflow.

## A True Alternative to Apple Notes and Notion

If Apple Notes feels restrictive and Notion overly intricate, Craft occupies the perfect middle ground. It’s quick, organized, and refined. Craft consolidates your ideas, plans, and tasks into one cohesive system:

– **Notes that evolve into structured documents**
– **Tasks embedded within your writing**
– **Collections to arrange multi-step projects or research**
– **Tags for organized simplicity without the clutter**

Everything interconnects. You can brainstorm, plan, write, and arrange — all without toggling between apps or windows. The team introduced tags over the summer, and the September updates made them quicker to navigate and simpler to implement as you compose. Once tagging becomes second nature, you focus less on categorization and effortlessly find what you need.

## Collections: Powerful, Structured Documents

Craft’s Collections simplify the organization of complex projects — from project briefs and editorial schedules to event organization and research databases. The latest update introduces new field types such as percentages, currency, email, and phone, allowing you to customize each Collection for the specific task at hand. These are not merely documents; they are intelligent, structured environments that adapt to your workflow.

## Tasks: Integrated Directly into Your Writing

Craft’s Tasks are situated directly within your notes, ensuring your to-dos remain connected to their relevant context. With the new Tasks tab, the team has added useful filters that reflect how individuals plan their week: Inbox for quick notes, Today for immediate actions, Upcoming for a preview, and All Tasks for overall visibility. Combined with Collections and tags, you can handle ideas and execution in one location — eliminating the need to switch between a task manager and your notes app.

## Craft on iPad Demonstrates What Modern Software Should Feel Like

The most striking aspect of Craft’s Liquid Glass update is how naturally it integrates with the iPad. Craft’s update exemplifies what a contemporary iPad app can accomplish. It utilizes the tablet as the primary workspace and employs the platform’s latest design system judiciously. It introduces private, offline intelligence to writing and planning, while also connecting notes, tasks, tags, and structured Collections into a workflow that spans from academic use to professional settings. If you’ve been seeking software that transforms the iPad into a premier productivity tool, Craft’s Liquid Glass update deserves a prominent place on your iPad.

## Get Started with Craft

Download Craft on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Begin a new document, jot down a few ideas, convert one into a task, and include a couple of tags. Observe how effortlessly it all falls into place. As the project expands, transition it into a Collection and select fields that align with your workflow. Need a summary or translation?

Read More
Apple Wallet Will Soon Allow US Passports on iPhone

# Apple Wallet Set to Include US Passports by Year-End

The Wallet application from Apple has recently been updated with numerous new functionalities alongside the launch of iOS 26, but an intriguing enhancement is forthcoming: the incorporation of US passports. This capability is anticipated to be available by the close of the year, greatly improving the app’s utility for iPhone users.

## Digital IDs in Wallet

The Wallet app has offered digital IDs for a while now, yet their access has been somewhat restricted. At present, only 11 states and territories in the US provide digital IDs, like state driver’s licenses, due to the necessity for state collaboration with Apple. The impending inclusion of US passports will expand the range of digital identification accessible to users, facilitating wider use among a broader audience.

## Expected Release Timeline

The latest update on Apple’s website reveals that US passport support is set to be launched later this year. The potential timeline indicates that this feature may be part of the forthcoming iOS 26.1 update, anticipated in late October, or possibly in iOS 26.2, which could debut in early to mid-December. There is also a chance that Apple might activate this feature via a server-side update, negating the requirement for a new software rollout.

## Conclusion

With the upcoming integration of US passport support, iPhone users will shortly have the capability to digitally store their passports within the Wallet app, simplifying travel and identification tasks. As this feature draws near, users are urged to reflect on how it could enhance their interaction with digital identification.

Read More
Apple Abandons Launch of New Apple TV+ Series Planned for This Friday

### Apple Cancels Release of “The Savant” on Apple TV+

Apple has taken the surprising step to call off the release of “The Savant,” an eagerly awaited series featuring Jessica Chastain, which was slated to debut on Apple TV+ on September 26. Currently, the show lacks a confirmed release date, and Apple has erased all references to the launch from its social media channels. The TV app now shows that the series is “coming at a later date,” leaving fans in uncertainty about its prospects.

#### Reasons for Cancellation Remain Unclear

The specific reasons for the cancellation of “The Savant” have not been revealed by Apple. The company has yet to provide an official statement on the issue, resulting in speculation among viewers and industry experts alike.

#### Plot Overview and Controversies

While particular plot elements remain mostly under wraps, it is thought that “The Savant” centers on Chastain’s character as she delves into extremist online groups to prevent potential acts of terrorism. This premise has drawn scrutiny, especially in light of recent real-world incidents, such as the contentious Charlie Kirk assassination, which might have affected the decision to postpone the show’s release.

The trailer for “The Savant,” unveiled in August, encountered considerable backlash for its depiction of political themes. Critics suggested that the series could portray a skewed perspective on extremism and misrepresent right-wing ideologies. Furthermore, some criticism was aimed at the show’s concept, with opponents questioning the likelihood of a woman successfully infiltrating ‘incel’ groups without being detected, reflecting broader societal views on gender roles in such storylines.

#### A Pattern of Delays on Apple TV+

“The Savant” is not the first show on Apple TV+ to experience an indefinite delay. The third season of the acclaimed international thriller “Tehran” has also been deferred since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict, despite having completed filming in 2023. Although the season aired in its entirety on the Israel Kan 11 network in December 2024, Apple has not shared any news regarding its availability for worldwide streaming.

#### Conclusion

The cancellation of “The Savant” has certainly disheartened fans who were looking forward to its release. With no defined timeline for when—or if—the series will premiere, viewers are left to contemplate the ramifications of its contentious themes and the larger context of media representation in today’s environment. As Apple TV+ continues to address these challenges, the future of its original content remains ambiguous.

Read More
Apple Invitations Unveil Two Fresh Features and Liquid Glass Aesthetic

### Apple Invites 1.5: New Features and Improvements

Apple Invites, the invitation and event organization application that was launched earlier this year, has undergone a substantial update with the rollout of version 1.5. This enhancement brings forth a variety of new functionalities, such as Liquid Glass improvements, calendar integration, and video playback for shared albums, elevating the app’s usability and visual charm.

#### Key Features of Apple Invites 1.5

1. **Calendar Integration**: A standout feature in this update is the calendar integration capability. When activated, this function seamlessly tracks all your Invites events in your chosen Apple Calendar, ensuring you never overlook an important occasion.

2. **Liquid Glass Improvements**: The app now includes Liquid Glass enhancements, delivering a richer and more enjoyable user experience. The redesigned app icon, made from Liquid Glass, adds a hint of sophistication to the Home Screen.

3. **Video Playback for Shared Albums**: Users can now experience video playback directly within the Invites application for shared albums. This functionality boosts the app’s effectiveness as a central location for all event-related media, facilitating easier sharing and viewing of content for both hosts and attendees.

#### Ongoing Development

Since its introduction, Apple has remained dedicated to advancing the Invites app, progressively rolling out features like a Home Screen widget and link tile support. The 1.5 update signifies the most considerable alterations to the app since its debut, showcasing Apple’s commitment to enhancing user satisfaction.

#### Conclusion

With the rollout of calendar integration, Liquid Glass aesthetics, and video playback features, Apple Invites 1.5 establishes itself as a more powerful resource for event organization and management. Users can download the updated version from the App Store and discover the new features that improve the experience of hosting and attending events.

For those who have utilized Apple Invites since its inception, the latest update is set to enhance the app’s value. Users are invited to share their thoughts and propose additional features they would like to see in future iterations.

Read More
Disney+ Unveils Price Hike Impacting HBO Max and Hulu Package Deals

**Price Hikes for Disney+ and Bundles: Essential Information**

Increases in streaming service prices are not unprecedented, but Disney+ has often been highlighted as one of the platforms that regularly elevates its rates. Starting October 21, substantial price hikes will impact both standalone Disney+ subscriptions and popular bundles that include Hulu, ESPN, and HBO Max.

### Upcoming Price Adjustments

A recently revised support document on Disney’s website details the forthcoming price adjustments. Below is a summary of the existing and new rates for various Disney+ plans and bundles:

#### Disney+ Plans

– **With Ads**
– Current: $9.99/month
– Effective 10/21: $11.99/month

– **Without Ads**
– Current: $15.99/month
– Effective 10/21: $18.99/month

#### Disney+ and Hulu Bundle (With Ads)

– Current: $10.99/month
– Effective 10/21: $12.99/month

#### Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle (With Ads)

– Current: $16.99/month
– Effective 10/21: $19.99/month

#### Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium (No Ads on Disney/Hulu)

– Current: $26.99/month
– Effective 10/21: $29.99/month

#### Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (With Ads)

– Current: $16.99/month
– Effective 10/21: $19.99/month

#### Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (No Ads)

– Current: $29.99/month
– Effective 10/21: $32.99/month

These price increases signify notable hikes for Disney+ subscriptions and bundles, mirroring trends seen with other streaming platforms like Peacock and Apple TV+.

### Plans That Remain the Same

Surprisingly, some plans have managed to avoid price increases. The ad-free Disney+ and Hulu bundle stays at $19.99, just $1 more than the upcoming cost for Disney+ without ads. Furthermore, the recently introduced Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited bundles will keep their existing pricing.

### Conclusion

As Disney+ and its related bundles gear up for these price hikes, subscribers might need to reassess their streaming choices. Will these adjustments influence your decision to subscribe to Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, or ESPN? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments.

Read More
Apple Music 5.0 Upgrade Brings iOS 26 Functionality to Android Users

**Apple Music 5.0 Update: Essential Features for Android Users**

Apple Music has officially launched version 5.0 for Android users, following a successful beta period. This update aligns with the recent launch of iOS 26 and brings numerous new features aimed at improving user experience.

### Essential Features of Apple Music 5.0

1. **Pinning Capability**:
A notable feature in this update is the option to pin songs, albums, playlists, and artists right in the Library tab. Users can take advantage of a new “Pin” button found at the top of various three-dot overflow menus across the application. Pinned items are shown in a grid layout, and users can effortlessly unpin or modify the Tap Action (options range from going to Album/Playlist, Play, or Shuffle) via a long-press. Notably, these pins synchronize across all Apple devices, guaranteeing a fluid experience. Users also have the ability to enable pins for automatic downloads, which can be managed in the app’s settings.

2. **Lyrics Translation & Pronunciation**:
Apple Music 5.0 rolls out a feature that significantly improves user interaction with lyrics. This functionality empowers users to comprehend lyrics and sing along in various languages. By going to the Display Options in Settings, users can select how they want the Lyrics of Pronunciation to be presented. Apple utilizes machine learning, complemented by insights from language specialists, to guarantee that translated lyrics retain their emotional and cultural essence.

3. **Improved Replay Experience**:
The update also enhances the Replay feature, enabling users to conveniently view their monthly and year-end listening statistics directly within the app. This feature provides insights into listening habits, simplifying the process for users to monitor their musical preferences over time.

### Design and Usability

While the main design of the app remains the same, featuring the familiar five-tab bottom bar and miniplayer, there are minor updates to button shapes. For example, buttons such as shuffle, repeat, and autoplay have evolved from rounded rectangles to pill-shaped styles, providing a contemporary appearance.

### Significant Omissions

Despite these advancements, the update does not include the AutoMix feature, which employs AI to facilitate seamless transitions between tracks. Additionally, the Liquid Glass design element is absent from this release.

### Availability

Apple Music 5.0 is now available for download through the Play Store. Users who took part in the beta testing will automatically receive the stable version, ensuring they can benefit from the latest features promptly.

In summary, Apple Music 5.0 for Android delivers substantial enhancements that improve user engagement with the app, making it simpler to access preferred content and enjoy music across languages.

Read More