AllYouCanTech

9to5Mac Daily Briefing: September 23, 2025 – Summary of iOS 26.1 Beta and Battery Longevity Assessments

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple News and Analysis**

In the rapidly changing realm of technology, keeping up with the latest updates is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily acts as a vital resource for anyone wanting to stay abreast of Apple news, providing daily summaries of the most important stories that influence the Apple ecosystem.

### What is 9to5Mac Daily?

9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that offers a brief overview of the leading Apple-related news each weekday. It is tailored for listeners who wish to remain informed without wading through numerous articles or news outlets. Each episode includes discussions on the newest product launches, software upgrades, industry shifts, and more, making it a must-listen for both Apple enthusiasts and professionals.

### Where to Listen

Listeners can find 9to5Mac Daily on multiple platforms, ensuring everyone can discover a suitable way to listen. The podcast is accessible on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
– [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
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### Sponsorship and Promotions

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### Subscription Benefits

For those wishing to improve their listening experience, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus provides a number of perks:

– Access to ad-free versions of each episode
– Exclusive bonus content

Subscribing not only aids the creators but also enhances the listener’s experience with extra insights and discussions.

### Engaging with the Community

Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback. They can connect via email at

Apple Watch Ultra 3 Reduced by $65, Ultra 2 by $150, M3 iPad Air by $150, Alongside Clear iPhone 17/Pro Cases and Additional Offers

### Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Other Recent Releases: An In-Depth Review

This month, Apple has introduced a range of thrilling products, including the **AirPods Pro 3**, **Apple Watch Series 11**, and the **Apple Watch Ultra 3**. Each device exemplifies Apple’s dedication to innovation and excellence, positioning them as highly anticipated entries in the tech industry.

#### Apple Watch Ultra 3: Specifications and Pricing

The **Apple Watch Ultra 3** is marketed as a premium smartwatch, priced starting at **$799**. It features several upgrades compared to its predecessor, the Ultra 2, such as:

– **Larger Display**: A broader screen for enhanced visibility.
– **Always-On Display**: Enhanced functionality for quick access to information.
– **Improved Connectivity**: Compatibility with satellite and 5G, ensuring superior communication capabilities.
– **Extended Battery Life**: Lasting up to 42 hours, compared to the 36 hours of the Ultra 2.

For bargain hunters, open-box options for the Ultra 3 are available, providing savings of **$65 off** the retail price. The **black Apple Watch Ultra 2** stands out as a great alternative, currently offered at **$649**, which is **$150 less** than the Ultra 3.

#### Apple Watch Series 11: Features and Costs

The **Apple Watch Series 11** is available in two sizes, priced as follows:

– **42mm**: **$399**
– **46mm**: **$429**

This series maintains strong health tracking features and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, making it an excellent option for fitness buffs and casual users alike.

#### M3 iPad Air: The Budget-Friendly Full-Size Tablet

In addition to wearables, Apple has launched the **M3 iPad Air**, now offered at its lowest price ever of **$649** for the 13-inch model, reflecting a **$150 discount**. This model is crafted to deliver powerful performance in a lightweight design, perfect for both professional use and leisure.

The **11-inch M3 iPad Air** is also available for **$449**, matching its lowest price to date. Both models come equipped with the new M3 chip, ensuring they manage demanding applications and multitasking effortlessly.

#### Accessories and Charging Promotions

Along with these major product announcements, Apple has also rolled out a selection of accessories, including fresh cases for the iPhone 17 series. These accessories are intended to enhance the latest devices while offering protection and style.

### Conclusion

With the debut of the Apple Watch Ultra 3, Series 11, and the M3 iPad Air, Apple continues to expand the horizons of technology and design. Whether in search of a premium smartwatch or a multifunctional tablet, these new releases furnish excellent choices for consumers. Watch for ongoing deals and discounts to optimize your purchase.

Two Expected Shortcomings of the Coming iPhone Air Seem to Be Advantages

# iPhone Air: Durability and Battery Performance Surpass Anticipations

Apple’s latest iPhone Air has been in the hands of users for several days, and even longer for reviewers. So far, there’s been a surprisingly favorable agreement on two critical aspects expected to be shortcomings for the iPhone Air: durability and battery performance.

## iPhone Air’s Durability and Battery Performance Have Stunned

I’ve been utilizing my iPhone Air since early Friday morning, and up to this point, I am thoroughly enjoying it. However, despite reports of high interest in the standard iPhone 17 and 17 Pro lines, sales for the iPhone Air appear to be underwhelming. This might, perhaps, relate to misconceptions surrounding the Air’s anticipated weaknesses.

For instance, it makes sense that users on TikTok would take one glance at the sleek design and presume the iPhone Air will:

1. Bend easily
2. Have poor battery performance

Yet among users who have actually tested Apple’s new sleek model, the agreement has been notably different. iPhone Air’s durability has continually astonished even the most bend-focused YouTubers. JerryRigEverything was unable to induce bending through pure physical force and eventually had to rely on machine assistance.

Battery performance, on the other hand, has been another point of strength. iPhone Air’s battery performance has shown, across various assessments, to be quite similar to that of the base iPhone 17 and last year’s iPhone 16 Pro—just as Apple’s predictions indicated. My own experiences have certainly mirrored this. The iPhone Air lasts me just as long as my iPhone 16 Pro did on iOS 26, and surprisingly, even longer on some days.

Would I achieve even superior battery performance with an iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max? Certainly. However, the Air’s slim design has somehow not led to reduced battery performance. It’s about as effective as the 16 Pro, which users generally regarded as having excellent battery performance last year.

If you’re worried about having fewer rear cameras or inferior built-in speakers, then the iPhone Air may not suit you. But if your decision against the iPhone Air was primarily based on concerns about bending or subpar battery performance, it could be time to reevaluate that decision.

If you own an iPhone Air, how’s it performing for you? If not, what led you to choose against it? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top iPhone Accessories

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

New Entries to Apple Arcade for October

Apple Arcade keeps expanding its collection by adding fresh titles every month, and October 2025 is no different. The service has revealed four thrilling new games, with the standout being NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition, set to debut on October 16.

### Four New Apple Arcade Games in October

Recently, Apple Arcade subscribers have welcomed the launch of two new titles: [NFL Retro Bowl ’26](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nfl-retro-bowl-26/id6476767864?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_details&app=arcade&mttnsubad=6476767864) and [Jeopardy! Daily](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jeopardy-daily/id6475484821?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_details&app=arcade&mttnsubad=6475484821). Nevertheless, the forthcoming releases are set to elevate the excitement even further.

On **October 2**, Apple Arcade will unveil three additional games, broadening its extensive lineup.

The key highlight for the month, though, is the launch of [NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nba-2k26-arcade-edition/id6746148175?itscg=30200&itsct=arcade_box_details&app=arcade&mttnsubad=6746148175) on **October 16**. This edition introduces a new NBA Eras feature, enabling players to relive iconic moments from basketball history.

Rebecca Chan, Visual Concepts’ general manager, shared her excitement about the new feature: “Creating NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition has been an incredible experience, and we’re excited to introduce our latest feature, NBA Eras. Beginning with the iconic Larry Bird vs. Magic Johnson era, players can revisit decades of drafts, championships, and create amazing highlight reels with the GOATs.”

### The Shift Towards Big IP Titles

Although Apple Arcade has historically focused on indie games, there has been a clear transition towards titles that are based on significant intellectual properties (IP). This shift signifies the service’s approach to draw a wider audience by integrating renowned franchises with its indie game selections.

For those keen on learning more about this trend, further details can be found

M5 Mac Launch Timeline: Anticipated Release Dates for Upcoming Macs

Apple’s M5 Chip: Upcoming Release and Fresh Mac Variants

With great anticipation, the tech world looks forward to the introduction of Apple’s M5 chip, with speculation indicating that the inaugural M5 Macs, including the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, are imminent. Here’s a detailed summary of what to anticipate regarding the M5 chip and its related offerings.

### M5 Chip Launch Expected Shortly

It is expected that Apple will reveal its next-generation M5 chip in October. This unveiling might take place during a special event or through a series of product announcements over several days. Notably, the M5 chip might not first appear in a Mac product; instead, it is rumored that the refreshed iPad Pro will be the initial device to showcase the M5 chip, continuing the pattern established by the M4 chip.

Moreover, there are hints that the new Vision Pro headset could also feature the M5 chip, which would broaden its usage beyond conventional computing devices.

### Early 2026 Releases for M5 MacBook Pro and MacBook Air

Traditionally, Apple unveils new MacBook Pro models in the fall, keeping expectations high for the announcement of the M5 MacBook Pro this year. However, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has suggested that the M5 MacBook Pro might not be available until early 2026. When it eventually launches, it is predicted to uphold the existing industrial design in both 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, alongside three chip versions: M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max.

Simultaneously, the M5 MacBook Air is also anticipated to be revealed in early 2026, likely around February or March, paralleling the release schedule of the M4 model. The M5 MacBook Air is expected to retain the same design as its predecessor, providing 13-inch and 15-inch options.

While the spotlight has largely been on the MacBook series, there is a possibility of other M5 Macs, such as the Mac mini and iMac, making their debut in late 2025 or early 2026.

### Conclusion

As the release of the M5 chip nears, enthusiasm grows regarding the possible improvements and new functionalities that will accompany the next generation of Macs. The tech community is eager to observe how Apple will advance its innovation with the M5 chip and what novel features will be integrated into the upcoming MacBook Pro and MacBook Air variants.

Apple Undergoes Legal Inquiry in the EU Concerning Fraudulent Apps

Apple has often referenced insecure and fraudulent apps as a rationale for its desire to sell all iPhone applications exclusively through the company’s own App Store. Nonetheless, various reports have indicated that there is a significant presence of scam apps that make it past Apple’s app review process, and the company is currently facing renewed legal scrutiny in the EU regarding this matter.

### The App Store Dispute

Apple has faced legal challenges in multiple countries globally due to its monopolistic domination over the sale of iPhone applications. It has been compelled to allow third-party app stores within the EU and to ease some of its regulations in the US. The company has frequently contended that its stringent control over the App Store is the sole method to ensure that iPhones remain protected from fraudulent applications and similar threats. However, this argument loses strength when considering the considerable number of deceitful apps that have gained entry into the store.

A 2021 investigation uncovered that scam applications constitute nearly 2% of the top-grossing apps in this store, and the company has recently permitted a dating application into the App Store that was discovered to have compromised the private conversations and personal information of tens of thousands of women.

### Apple Faces Legal Examination Over Fraudulent Apps

The Financial Times indicates that the EU is now poised to investigate whether Apple and three other major tech companies are implementing adequate measures to safeguard consumers from fraudulent applications and various forms of financial scams. The EU is set to review if Apple, Google, and Microsoft are not effectively monitoring financial fraud online, as it intensifies efforts to regulate the operations of Big Tech on the internet.

EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen remarked that the bloc will examine how Apple and Google are managing counterfeit applications in their app stores, including phony banking apps. The commission will also assess whether Google and Microsoft provide enough protection against scam listings in their search engines, while Booking.com faces criticism for permitting fraudulent accommodation advertisements. Numerous travelers have arrived at properties only to discover that they either do not exist or have legitimate owners who are unaware of their alleged reservations.

The EU has recently been concentrating on issues related to child safeguarding and electoral integrity, and addressing financial scams is now being prioritized. If any of the companies are found to be negligent in their legal responsibilities to prevent illegal content, they could incur penalties of up to 6% of their yearly global revenue.

A One-Step Apple Shortcut That Might Turn Into Your Next Preferred Tool

# Harnessing the Potential of Apple’s Shortcuts App: A Revolutionary Tool for Accessing App Settings

The Shortcuts app from Apple has emerged as a significant resource for iPhone users, particularly with the latest updates in iOS 26. While numerous users delve into intricate automations, some of the most impactful shortcuts are surprisingly straightforward. One such shortcut, recently unveiled by tech aficionado Quinn Nelson, simplifies the method of reaching an app’s settings, enhancing speed and efficiency.

## The Difficulty of Reaching App Settings

Last year, Apple redesigned the iPhone’s Settings app, which, although visually appealing, complicated the navigation to specific app settings. Users frequently found themselves taking several steps: opening the Settings app, scrolling to the Apps section, and identifying the desired app. This procedure can be tedious and irritating, especially for those who often tweak app settings.

## Presenting the ‘App Settings’ Shortcut

Quinn Nelson’s shortcut tackles this problem directly. By adhering to a few uncomplicated steps, users can establish a shortcut that enables them to access an app’s settings without the trouble of sifting through the entire Settings menu. Here’s how to set it up:

1. **Download the ‘App Settings’ Shortcut**: Retrieve the single-step shortcut from

Apple Ginza Store Reopens Following 22 Years with a Fresh Design on Friday

**Apple Ginza: A Fresh Era in Retail Architecture**

Apple Ginza, the first retail outlet of the company outside the United States, initially welcomed visitors in 2003. Following a major redesign, it will be reopening on September 26, 2025, at its original site, presenting an “all-new design” that embodies both contemporary style and Japanese aesthetics.

### Cutting-Edge Design Elements

The recently reimagined Apple Ginza boasts a stunning double-skin glass facade fitted with integrated adaptive louvers. These features collaborate to control light and temperature throughout the day, improving the store’s eco-friendliness. The layout is crafted to optimize natural light, fostering a luminous and welcoming environment. Furthermore, the interior includes warm wooden paneling, honoring traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

### Enhancements for Accessibility

In accordance with current retail trends, Apple has implemented significant accessibility upgrades to the store. The new layout encompasses seating and tables at various heights, catering to customers with differing needs and ensuring a more inclusive shopping experience.

### A Significant Milestone

Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted the importance of this reopening, sharing, “Apple Ginza is dear to us as our very first retail outlet outside the U.S. This reopening marks yet another remarkable milestone on our journey in Japan.” Cook underscored the store’s significance in connecting with customers and communities nationwide.

### Distinct Experiences

To commemorate the reopening, Apple Ginza will feature a unique “Today at Apple Spotlight” event in partnership with the Japanese supergroup Number_i. This session will delve into Spatial Audio and spatial video via their single, “U.M.A.” The event will debut exclusively at Apple Ginza before extending to other locations across Japan on October 11. Additionally, enthusiasts will have the chance to reserve one-on-one demonstrations of the Apple Vision Pro, providing an immersive experience of the “U.M.A.” music video through the Spatial Gallery app.

### Conclusion

With its innovative design, focus on accessibility, and exceptional customer experiences, the reopening of Apple Ginza signifies an important chapter in the company’s narrative. It not only showcases Apple’s commitment to sustainability and contemporary design but also strengthens its deep connections to the Japanese market and its clientele.

“Summary of ‘Pluribus’: Information on the Apple TV+ Show by the Creator of Breaking Bad”

**Pluribus: An Upcoming Sci-Fi Series by Vince Gilligan Coming to Apple TV+**

‘Pluribus’ is a forthcoming sci-fi series conceived by Vince Gilligan, famous for his contributions to *Breaking Bad* and *Better Call Saul*. The series is scheduled to debut on **November 7, 2025**, with the initial two episodes accessible on Apple TV+, followed by weekly installments until December 26.

### Synopsis of Pluribus

The series has been in the works since Apple revealed it in 2022. Gilligan, known for weaving engaging stories, teams up once again with Rhea Seehorn, who stars as the main character, portrayed as “the most miserable person on Earth” burdened with the mission to save the world from joy.

Apple has devised a distinctive marketing approach for *Pluribus*, featuring a phone number for fans to receive updates, including messages aimed at Seehorn’s character, Carol.

### Genre and Location

*Pluribus* is identified as a sci-fi drama but also encompasses aspects of psychological sci-fi. Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Gilligan has pointed out that the series will exclude crime or methamphetamine, representing a shift from his past projects. He hinted at a major change in the world during the first episode, leading to intense repercussions that will develop throughout the series.

Seehorn categorizes the genre as skewing toward psychological sci-fi, with themes that mirror modern life through a speculative perspective, akin to *The Twilight Zone*.

### Cast and Roles

Alongside Rhea Seehorn, the cast features:
– Karolina Wydra (*Sneaky Pete*)
– Carlos Manuel Vesga (*The Hijacking of Flight 601*)
– Miriam Shor (*American Fiction*)
– Samba Schutte (*Our Flag Means Death*)

Gilligan has shared his enthusiasm for audiences to witness Seehorn in a distinct role, depicting a flawed hero aiming for goodness.

### Season 2 Announcement

In an atypical decision, Apple has preemptively confirmed a second season for *Pluribus*, as part of the original agreement with Gilligan. This early declaration reflects confidence in the series’ likelihood of success, aiming to eliminate long gaps for viewers between seasons.

### Final Thoughts

*Pluribus* is poised to become one of the most captivating new series on Apple TV+, merging Gilligan’s storytelling expertise with an innovative concept and a skilled cast. With its launch impending, excitement is mounting for what may serve as a noteworthy enhancement to the sci-fi genre.

Apple TV+ subscriptions are priced at **$12.99 per month**, offering a variety of popular shows and films.

Apple Launches New Investment Program As Part of Its Restore Fund

Apple has declared a new investment in the rehabilitation and sustainable management of an operational redwood forest in California, collaborating with The Conservation Fund. This effort is a component of Apple’s augmented Restore Fund, which currently backs two dozen conservation and regenerative agriculture initiatives across six continents.

The primary focus of this investment is the Gualala River Forest located in Mendocino County, California. This forest plays a crucial role in the coastal redwood ecosystem, serving as a habitat for various wildlife species and being essential for the economic prosperity of many communities along California’s northern coast. Through this collaboration, The Conservation Fund will oversee the sustainable management of the forest, while Apple will obtain carbon credits generated from the forest’s development.

This investment is in line with the Restore Fund’s objective to boost global investment in nature-based carbon removal, supporting the company’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality across its entire operations by the decade’s close.

Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, shared her excitement for the initiative, underscoring the significance of forests in carbon removal and their contribution to local economies and biodiversity.

For further information, you can view Apple’s complete press release on its website.