Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

AirPods Pro 3 Launch Foam-Infused Ear Tips Offered in Five Sizes

### AirPods Pro 3: Improved Comfort and Personalization Features

The latest updates concerning the AirPods Pro 3 have redirected attention from performance upgrades to user comfort and personalization capabilities. Here are the primary enhancements that are noteworthy.

#### Foam-Infused Ear Tips and Extra Sizes

Apple has at last responded to a persistent demand from users by launching foam-infused ear tips for the AirPods Pro 3. These novel ear tips not only improve comfort but also act as an additional insulator, leading to a noticeable enhancement in active noise cancellation, which is now twice as potent.

During the Awe Dropping event, Apple showcased the cutting-edge design of these ear tips. The company remarked, “Employing advanced computational audio to eliminate more noise around you than ever, AirPods Pro 3 allow you to immerse yourself (or disengage) when you wish. And five brand-new ear tips — featuring an XXS option — bond a thin layer of soft foam to the silicone exterior to deliver even superior acoustic performance.”

The AirPods Pro 3 are now equipped with five distinct ear tip sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, and L, in contrast to the three sizes offered with the original version. This broadened range is designed to provide a superior fit for a larger variety of users, ensuring that all can discover their optimal ear tip size for maximum comfort and audio quality.

For those looking to buy the new ear tips, Apple presents a 5-pair pack for $14.99. However, it is essential to highlight that these new tips are incompatible with earlier AirPods Pro models. Additionally, Apple offers two sets of the XXS ear tips for $9.99, which are also exclusively for the AirPods Pro 3.

For further information and updates, be sure to explore the complete coverage of the “Awe Dropping” event.

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Xcode 26 Release Candidate Beta Now Available for Developers

Following the event that took place today, Apple is beginning to deploy the initial Release Candidate version of the operating systems unveiled during WWDC25, in addition to Xcode 26. Here are the specifics.

## Apple Intelligence, Anthropic and OpenAI Collaboration

This year’s standout feature of Xcode is its integrated support for large language models, which includes native compatibility with OpenAI and Anthropic. Additionally, users have the ability to connect with local LLMs and external services through API keys.

Support for Anthropic was introduced later in the beta phase. The intelligence functionality, initially revealed with ChatGPT and Apple’s proprietary models, serves as a renewed attempt at the Swift Assist concept that was introduced during WWDC24 but ultimately went live.

It’s also important to note that Xcode 26 now provides two distinct builds: one tailored for Apple silicon Macs, and a Universal version suitable for all Macs, regardless of the processor type.

For a complete overview of all the new features in Xcode 26, along with the download link for the Release Candidate beta, please follow this link.

And don’t forget to explore our news hub for comprehensive coverage of the “Awe Dropping” event.

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Live Translation Functionality Now Supported by AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4

### Apple AirPods Pro 3: Live Translation Feature Detailed

Apple has recently launched the AirPods Pro 3, which include an intriguing new feature: Live Translation. Nevertheless, users of earlier versions, like the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, can also enable this feature via a software update.

#### Compatibility Requirements

To take advantage of the Live Translation feature, users must have appropriate AirPods. However, it is crucial to understand that the feature does not function natively on the AirPods themselves. Instead, it depends on a connected iPhone for execution. Specifically, an iPhone 15 Pro or newer, operating on iOS 26, is necessary, as Apple Intelligence powers the translation features.

Even those with the latest AirPods Pro 3 will need a relatively current iPhone for the Live Translation feature to operate effectively.

#### Supported Languages

At its debut, Live Translation offers support for a select range of languages, which includes English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. Apple has revealed intentions to broaden language capabilities later this year, adding Italian, Japanese, Korean, and simplified Chinese.

#### How Live Translation Functions

To enable Live Translation, users can activate a dedicated mode by pressing the stems of both AirPods at the same time. The microphones will listen for dialogue in a different language during conversations. The device then translates the spoken language into the user’s language and relays it through the AirPods.

While this feature mainly supports one-sided conversations unless both parties possess compatible AirPods, Apple has supplied an alternative solution. Users can present a transcript of their translated remarks on their iPhone, allowing the other individual to read the reply in their native language while listening to the translation via the AirPods.

In conclusion, Apple’s Live Translation feature improves communication across language barriers, making it available not just to new AirPods Pro 3 users, but also to those with earlier models, as long as they have the appropriate iPhone.

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Apple Unveils Dynamic Power Adapter for Quick iPhone Charging

Following the wrap-up of today’s iPhone 17 presentation, Apple has rolled out a selection of new accessories on the online Apple Store. Among the surprises not highlighted during the keynote is the launch of a new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter aimed at fast charging iPhones.

### 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max Now Offered by Apple Store

If you’re in the market for new iPhone accessories, the online Apple Store has what you need. Alongside the new Crossbody Strap, TechWoven cases, and MagSafe Battery pack, there’s an exciting new power adapter.

Apple’s **40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max** is now offered for $39 and seems to be specifically crafted for fast charging iPhones.

Here’s the official product description:

> The 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max is specially engineered to dynamically deliver up to 60W of output, offering a significant improvement in charging speeds.
> With Dynamic Power, you gain many of the advantages of higher-wattage chargers in a compact, pocket-friendly design, making charging at home, in the office, or on the move quicker and more convenient than before. For fast charging, pair the Dynamic Power Adapter with iPhone 17 models (50 percent battery in about 20 minutes) or iPhone Air (50 percent battery in roughly 30 minutes).

Interestingly, the list of compatible devices solely includes iPhones back to the iPhone 15 series, whereas nearly all previous Apple Watch and AirPods models are listed as compatible. The specific charging speeds for each device are not detailed, aside from the mentioned fast charging capabilities for iPhone 17 models and iPhone Air.

You can acquire the new Dynamic Power Adapter from the online Apple Store.

Are you considering getting the new Dynamic Power Adapter? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top iPhone Accessories

The launch of the 40W Dynamic Power Adapter contributes to the expanding array of accessories designed to improve the iPhone experience, making it simpler for users to charge their devices swiftly and effectively.

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Apple Unveils ‘Dear Apple’ Segment from Today’s Event

### The Influence of Apple Watch on Users’ Lives

In recent times, Apple has showcased authentic stories of users whose lives have been profoundly influenced by the Apple Watch. At the recent “Awe Dropping” event, Apple presented a touching segment named “Dear Apple,” which was subsequently shared on their YouTube channel. This segment includes testimonials from different users who have encountered life-altering moments due to the health monitoring features of the Apple Watch.

#### Critical Alerts

The Apple Watch comes with state-of-the-art health monitoring capabilities, including notifications for heart rate and alerts for atrial fibrillation. Numerous users have reported receiving warnings about potential health concerns, enabling them to seek medical assistance before matters worsened. One user recounted their story of getting an atrial fibrillation alert, which led them to consult a doctor and prevent a more severe health emergency. These individual narratives are powerful reminders of the watch’s ability to save lives.

#### Encouragement for a Healthier Lifestyle

In addition to emergency alerts, the Apple Watch has motivated users to embrace healthier lifestyles. Many people have discovered inspiration through the watch’s activity tracking features, which promote regular exercise and better habits. Users have recounted how the watch assisted them in setting and accomplishing fitness targets, resulting in enhanced overall wellness.

#### Sense of Community

The segment not only emphasizes personal experiences but also cultivates a sense of community among Apple Watch users. Viewers are urged to share their own narratives in the comments, creating a space for users to connect over their common experiences and the beneficial effects of technology on their health.

#### Closing Thoughts

The “Dear Apple” segment is a testament to the significant ways in which the Apple Watch has transformed lives. From crucial alerts to inspiring users to remain active, the watch has evolved into more than just a wearable gadget; it is a companion in health and wellness. For those curious about the event and the stories shared, further coverage is accessible through Apple’s news hub.

#### Apple Watch Promotions

For those wishing to become part of the Apple Watch user community, various promotions are offered on platforms like Amazon, facilitating access to this life-enhancing technology.

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New Backgrounds Released for iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro

You understand the routine: fresh iPhones, fresh wallpapers. If you enjoyed what was showcased during the “Awe Dropping” event, we have you sorted. Download the latest wallpapers below.

iOS now generates its default wallpapers dynamically, responding to movements and interactions on the device. Consequently, the images below are static representations of those wallpapers. And here’s a fun fact: the wallpapers can be adjusted to match either the device’s color or the shade of the iPhone case.

## iPhone Air

The new iPhone Air wallpaper presents what looks like an abstract nod to the camera plateau located on the back of the device:

![iPhone Air Wallpaper 1](image-url-1)
![iPhone Air Wallpaper 2](image-url-2)
![iPhone Air Wallpaper 3](image-url-3)
![iPhone Air Wallpaper 4](image-url-4)
![iPhone Air Wallpaper 5](image-url-5)
![iPhone Air Wallpaper 6](image-url-6)

## iPhone 17 Pro

Similarly to the iPad Pro, the latest iPhone 17 Pro wallpaper also showcases the word “PRO” in a vertical, stylized format:

![iPhone 17 Pro Wallpaper 1](image-url-7)
![iPhone 17 Pro Wallpaper 2](image-url-8)
![iPhone 17 Pro Wallpaper 3](image-url-9)
![iPhone 17 Pro Wallpaper 4](image-url-10)
![iPhone 17 Pro Wallpaper 5](image-url-11)
![iPhone 17 Pro Wallpaper 6](image-url-12)

Make sure to click or tap on the images to save the high-resolution wallpaper. After that, set it as your background image via the Photos app or Settings app on your iOS device.

Do you have a preferred choice? Share it with us in the comments.

Don’t forget to explore our [news hub](https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/09/iphone-17-looms-apple-event-live-blog-and-news-hub/) for complete coverage of the “Awe Dropping” event.

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macOS Tahoe 26 Introduces Innovative Repair Assistant Functionality for Mac Users

**Apple Unveils Repair Assistant for Mac Featuring macOS Tahoe**

Last year, Apple made a major advancement in improving the repair process for its products by launching Repair Assistant for iPhone and iPad. This groundbreaking tool placed first-party calibration software into the hands of repair experts, optimizing the repair workflow for various parts. Now, with the anticipated release of macOS Tahoe 26, Apple plans to broaden the functionalities of Repair Assistant to Mac computers.

**What is Repair Assistant?**

Repair Assistant is a calibration utility that aids in the repair of vital components within Apple devices. For iPhones and iPads, it facilitates repairs concerning the back glass, battery, display, TrueDepth camera, and rear camera. With the arrival of Repair Assistant for Mac, users can look forward to comparable features customized for Mac repairs.

**Key Features of Repair Assistant for Mac**

The forthcoming macOS Tahoe will be the inaugural version that supports Repair Assistant for Mac. This upgrade will enable technicians to install the calibration data essential for completing repairs. To take advantage of Repair Assistant, users must have macOS Tahoe 26 or newer installed on a Mac with Apple silicon.

This improvement is especially advantageous for individuals engaged in self-service repairs. It allows the calibration of used components and previously replaced parts that lacked calibration, ensuring repairs adhere to Apple’s reliability and security standards.

**Expanded Capabilities**

A standout feature of the updated Repair Assistant is its capacity to permit the reuse of Touch ID and Lid Angle sensors after repairs involving the Display or Logic Board for specific Mac models. Furthermore, Touch ID sensors will feature Activation Lock for enhanced security, safeguarding user information and device integrity.

**Availability of Genuine Parts**

In an effort to assist independent repair technicians, Genuine Parts Distributors will soon provide authentic Mac parts through platforms like MobileSentrix in the US and Europe, in addition to Mobileparts.shop in Europe. This initiative will guarantee that repair professionals have access to genuine components, further improving the quality of repairs.

**Accessing Repair Assistant**

Users can access Repair Assistant on macOS Tahoe or later by going to System Settings > General > About. If a repair has been identified by the system, a section labeled “Parts & Service” will show up. Users can then choose “Restart & Finish Repair with Repair Assistant” to start the calibration procedure and complete the repair process.

**Launch Date**

macOS Tahoe will be released starting September 15, marking a significant leap in Apple’s dedication to enhancing the repairability of its products. With the rollout of Repair Assistant for Mac, Apple continues to empower both users and repair professionals, ensuring that repairs are effective, dependable, and secure.

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Spigen Unveils New iPhone 17 Cases Merging Design and Safety

### The Newest iPhone 17 Cases from Spigen: Where Style Meets Safety

As September approaches, Apple fans eagerly await the arrival of the latest iPhone models. This year’s selection includes the iPhone Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. To accompany these new smartphones, Spigen has launched an array of cutting-edge cases that not only provide protection but also enhance the visual appeal of the iPhones.

#### A Legacy of Style and Defense

Spigen distinguishes itself in the competitive phone accessory market through its dedication to design and practicality. The brand strives to deliver cases that protect your iPhone from potential damage while also emphasizing its elegant design.

#### Ultra Hybrid T Series: A Fusion of Style and Utility

The Ultra Hybrid T Series is a prominent addition to Spigen’s offerings. It showcases a semi-transparent design that complements the iPhone’s color variants: Silver, Deep Blue, and Cosmic Orange. For those who prefer a classic black look, Spigen has introduced a matte black variant of the 17 Pro case. This case features elevated edges to shield the screen and camera from scratches and impacts while cleverly hiding the new logo placement, all without interfering with MagSafe functionality.

#### Tough Armor: Maximum Impact Defense

For individuals searching for optimal protection, the Tough Armor case is an excellent option. It merges shock-absorbing TPU with fortified XRD Foam for excellent defense against falls. This year’s version includes refined camera cutouts for enhanced safety and a smoothly incorporated kickstand for hands-free viewing. The Tough Armor case is crafted to improve both the usability and style of your device.

#### Zero One: A Bold Design Statement

The Zero One case caters to tech fans who enjoy distinctive design features. Completely revamped, it boasts blueprint-style graphics that reveal the internal workings of the device. The dual-layer printing technique creates a captivating 3D effect, making it a genuine conversation starter.

#### Liquid Air: Sleek Protection

For those who favor a minimalist style, the Liquid Air case presents a thin and lightweight design that doesn’t compromise protection. Constructed from flexible TPU material, it absorbs shocks while maintaining a sophisticated appearance. The geometric anti-slip grip pattern not only boosts aesthetics but also assists in preventing accidental drops.

#### Simplified Screen Protection

A screen protector is crucial for every iPhone user, yet traditional installation can be tedious. Spigen’s glass screen protectors remove the risk of air bubbles and misalignment. The EZ Fit system makes the installation process easy, ensuring a flawless fit each time. The new EZ Fit AluminaCore Screen Protector combines strengthened glass with improved clarity, offering ten times greater protection than standard tempered glass.

#### Now Available

Spigen’s range of iPhone 17 cases allows users to embrace both style and security. With a broad assortment of designs available, there’s a case that suits every taste. Spigen’s iPhone 17 collection is currently on

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iPhone 17 Pro versus iPhone 16 Pro: Major Distinctions and Newly Introduced Features Clarified

Apple presented its flagship iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max earlier today during the ‘Awe dropping’ event alongside new AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and more. Here’s a comparison of the new iPhone 17 Pro with last year’s 16 Pro models.

## Displays and Durability: More Brightness and Scratch Resistance

iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max maintain the same 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch sizes as their predecessors. One advantage of this year’s models is their enhanced outdoor brightness, featuring 2x better outdoor contrast.

– **iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max:** 3000 nits peak brightness outdoors
– **iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max:** 2000 nits peak brightness outdoors

Strength is enhanced with the new Ceramic Shield 2, boasting 3x better scratch resistance. Moreover, there’s now a Ceramic Shield on the back of the iPhone, which was missing in the 16 Pro.

## Performance Enhancements: A19 Pro, Increased RAM

iPhone 17 Pro is equipped with the new A19 Pro chip, upgraded with an Apple-designed vapor chamber for superior heat management and performance. Apple asserts that the A19 Pro provides “up to 40 percent better sustained performance compared to the previous generation,” making it perfect for gaming, video editing, and running extensive local language models.

Both the iPhone 17 Pro and 16 Pro contain:
– 6-core CPU
– 6-core GPU
– 16-core Neural Engine

The A19 Pro’s GPU integrates Neural Accelerators, which were missing in the A18 Pro. The iPhone 17 Pro also features approximately 50% more RAM, reportedly 12GB compared to 8GB in the 16 Pro.

## Cameras: Center Stage Front Camera, 48MP Fusion Trio, 4x and 8x Optical Zoom

Cameras take center stage for this year’s iPhone 17 Pro series. The front camera boasts a new Center Stage 18MP lens, an improvement over the 12MP selfie camera on the 16 Pro. The Center Stage camera can automatically widen its field of view when more individuals enter the shot.

The back comprises a set of three 48MP Fusion cameras: Main, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto. The Telephoto lens has been upgraded from 12MP to 48MP, incorporating a tetraprism design with 4x and 8x optical zoom options, replacing the 5x zoom found in the 16 Pro. Digital zoom can extend to 40x.

New video capabilities feature:
– ProRes RAW support
– Log 2 support
– Genlock for synchronizing video across multiple cameras

Additionally, Dual Capture enables simultaneous video recording with both front and rear cameras.

## Design and Colors: Rear ‘Plateau,’ Aluminum, but No Black

iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max boast a new aluminum design, replacing the titanium used in the 16 Pro. The rear camera bump has evolved into a full-width camera ‘plateau.’

Apple describes the design as:
> “The new brushed aluminum unibody design is crafted with a lightweight aerospace-grade 7000-series aluminum alloy to deliver the best-ever thermal performance in an iPhone.”

Available colors for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max include:
– Cosmic Orange
– Deep Blue
– Silver

Notably, there is no Black or Space Gray option available this year, which may disappoint certain users.

## Battery Life: Achieving New Heights

Apple has made notable improvements in battery life. The smaller iPhone 17 Pro provides better battery performance than last year’s larger Pro Max model, while the 17 Pro Max reaches even greater performance.

Battery comparisons:
– **iPhone 17 Pro:** Up to 33 hours video playback, or 30 hours streamed
– **iPhone 16 Pro:** Up to 27 hours video playback, or 22 hours streamed

For the Pro Max:
– **iPhone 17 Pro Max:** Up to 39 hours video playback, or 35 hours streamed
– **iPhone 16 Pro Max:** Up to 33 hours video playback, or 29 hours streamed

## Storage and Pricing: Unexpectedly Good News

All iPhone 17 models now commence with 256GB of storage. Previously, the smaller version started at 128GB, while only the Pro Max began at 256GB. The 17 Pro Max also offers a 2TB storage option.

Pricing specifics:
– **iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099:** This reflects a $100 increase from the iPhone 16 Pro, but due to higher starting storage, it equates to the same cost as a 256GB 16 Pro.
– **iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,199:** The same price as the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

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iPhone 17 Pro Max Emerges as Apple’s Initial $2,000 Variant Featuring 2TB Storage Choice

Apple’s premier iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max have officially been released, unveiling major features, including a revolutionary 2TB storage option available for the Pro Max variant. However, prospective buyers should brace themselves for the accompanying price.

### The Top Storage Option for iPhone 17 Pro Max Comes at a Price

In the lead-up to the recent ‘Awe dropping’ event, there were prevalent speculations about possible price hikes for the iPhone 17 range. While Apple did make some price adjustments, they may not be as drastic as expected.

The iPhone 17 Pro now starts at $1,099, up from last year’s launch price of $999. Importantly, this model now features 256GB of storage, removing the earlier 128GB choice. Thus, when comparing equivalent storage sizes, the pricing of the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro stays steady.

The recently introduced iPhone Air has a starting price of $999, which is higher than the $899 initial price of the iPhone Plus model. Nevertheless, due to its closer connection to Apple’s Pro lineup, this pricing change might not be viewed as a conventional price increase.

For those apprehensive about iPhone pricing, the highest storage option for the iPhone 17 Pro Max is especially significant. The iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at 256GB for $1,199, reflecting the same starting price as last year’s 16 Pro Max. However, the launch of a new 2TB storage variant has established a new pricing standard.

As stated on Apple’s website, the 2TB Pro Max variant is listed at $1,999. This represents a considerable rise from the $1,599 cost of the 1TB variant. Initially, many anticipated that the first $2,000 iPhone would be next year’s iPhone Fold, but Apple has exceeded expectations by reaching this price threshold sooner.

With the iPhone 17 Pro Max featuring 2TB storage now available, consumers must weigh whether the expenditure is justified.

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