AllYouCanTech

macOS 26 Beta 1 Eliminates Compatibility with 400/800 FireWire Standards

**macOS 26 Tahoe Beta Eliminates FireWire Support: A Major Transition for Legacy Users**

The latest launch of the first developer beta for macOS 26 Tahoe has raised alarms among those who still depend on FireWire technology. Reports suggest that the beta version has stripped support for both FireWire 400 and FireWire 800 standards, representing a major departure from this once-favored interface.

Users on platforms such as Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) have recounted their experiences following the upgrade to macOS Tahoe 26 developer beta 1. Numerous individuals have observed that their FireWire devices, including older iPods, MiniDV camcorders, and external drives, are no longer recognized. This alteration impacts a range of legacy hardware that has been utilized for years, with some users expressing a sense of nostalgia for devices that have been essential to their digital lives since the early 2000s.

One user, @NekoMichiUBC, emphasized the effect on first-generation iPods, remarking, “macOS 26 Tahoe dev. beta 1 is no longer compatible with the iPod 1st generation due to FireWire support being deprecated.” Another user, mowd8574, verified that their FireWire 800 external drive disappeared after the update, stating, “I went to System Info, and there should be a FireWire, but it no longer exists.” Additional feedback from users indicated that FireWire 400 peripherals and DV capture capabilities are also affected.

It is crucial to recognize that this is merely the beginning of the beta cycle. Historically, Apple has made modifications based on user feedback during beta testing, which means there is a chance that FireWire support might be restored in upcoming builds prior to the final release later this fall. Currently, Apple has yet to offer any official statements regarding this alteration, but updates may be forthcoming as the beta evolves.

For those who continue to rely on FireWire technology, this development prompts inquiries about the future of their devices and the possible necessity for upgrades. As technology progresses, the cessation of support for older standards like FireWire may compel users to transition to newer interfaces and storage solutions.

In summary, the withdrawal of FireWire support in macOS 26 Tahoe beta marks a significant shift away from legacy technology, urging users to rethink their dependence on older hardware. As the beta testing advances, it remains uncertain whether Apple will respond to these concerns in subsequent updates. Users are encouraged to share their experiences and feedback as the community navigates this crucial change.

Gemini App Launches Video Upload Capability for Android, iPhone, and Web Users

### Google Gemini App Unveils Video Upload and Analysis Capability

The Google Gemini app has rolled out an intriguing new feature that enables users to upload and analyze video clips directly within the application. This improvement is part of a more extensive update, which includes a revamped navigation drawer and the stable launch of Gemini 2.5 Pro.

#### Video Upload and Analysis

As of June 19, the video upload capability has been made available to all users, covering both free and paid accounts. To make use of this feature, users must confirm that they have the latest version of the Gemini app installed on their devices. For iPhone and iPad users, the app can be updated through the App Store, while Android users can update via the Google Play Store. After updating, users can reach the video upload option by tapping the ‘plus’ menu and selecting a video from their “Gallery” or “Files.”

This functionality is not restricted to mobile devices; it is also accessible on the Gemini web platform. Users can effortlessly drag and drop video files into the prompt bar for analysis.

#### How It Operates

The Gemini app allows users to upload their own video files, in addition to the ability to ask questions about YouTube content by pasting links. Once a video is uploaded, Gemini examines the content, enabling users to ask specific questions regarding the clip. For example, users can inquire about details visible in the video, such as the time shown on a smart device or descriptions of scenes.

In a demonstration, a user uploaded a video featuring a Nest Hub and asked what time was shown. The app provided a complete player interface for the video and generated a detailed description of a serene autumn forest scene from another video, illustrating its analytical capabilities.

#### Uploading Videos

To upload a video, users should access the plus menu within the app and select either Gallery or Files. If the feature is activated for their account, they will be able to select videos for upload. However, if the feature is not available yet, the video option will be grayed out, indicating that an upload cannot occur at that time.

Currently, the video upload capability is still being rolled out, and its availability may differ across various accounts and devices. Users have reported functionality on both Android (Google app version 16.23 beta) and iOS, as well as on the Gemini 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro versions. However, it is presently unavailable on the web version, which shows a “File type unsupported” message when users try to upload videos.

#### Future Updates

While the video upload feature is a substantial enhancement to the Gemini app, Google has not yet updated the integrated camera functionality to permit video capture directly within the app. As the app continues to evolve, users can anticipate additional upgrades and features that will enhance their experience.

#### Conclusion

The launch of video upload and analysis in the Google Gemini app signifies a significant advancement in how users can interact with multimedia content. This feature not only boosts user engagement but also broadens the app’s functionality for various applications, from educational endeavors to creative projects. As Google progresses in refining and expanding the capabilities of the Gemini app, users can look forward to a more adaptable and robust tool for their requirements.

Current Offers: M4 Mac mini available for $469 (Record Low), M4 Max Mac Studio Reduced by $200, M4 MacBook Air Listed at $829, plus Additional Deals

# Current Apple Promotions: Price Cuts on iPhones, Macs, and Accessories

As of today, Apple fans can benefit from considerable discounts on a range of products, especially the newest iPhone and Mac models. This piece outlines the top offers available, featuring price reductions on the iPhone 15, iPhone 16, M4 Mac mini, MacBook Air, and more.

## iPhone Promotions

### Unlocked iPhone 15 Offers
Woot has just introduced a fresh listing for unlocked iPhone 15 devices, providing “pristine” units that have never been used by customers. The starting price is **$549.99 shipped** for the 128GB variant, which is a notable drop from the original cost of **$799**. The 256GB and 512GB versions are also up for grabs at **$579.99** and **$649.99**, respectively. These prices represent discounts of up to **$349 off** the regular retail cost.

## Mac Promotions

### M4 Mac Mini
The entry-level model of the **M4 Mac mini** has reached a record low price of **$469 shipped**, reduced from its usual price of **$599**, indicating a **$130 discount**. This offer can be found on Amazon and is among the best prices noted for this model.

### M4 MacBook Air
The **16GB M4 MacBook Air** in Sky Blue is now available for **$829 shipped**, a decrease from **$999**, resulting in a **$170 discount**. This is the lowest price currently available online for this model. Moreover, the enhanced **16GB/512GB variant** is now selling for **$999**, down from **$1,199**.

### M4 MacBook Pro
The **14-inch M4 MacBook Pro** has also experienced a price reduction, now retailing for **$1,399**, down from **$1,599**. This $200 discount makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a robust, portable Mac.

## Accessories and Additional Promotions

### AirPods Price Cuts
The **AirPods Pro 2** are presently priced at **$169**, reduced from **$249**, while the standard **AirPods 4** begin at **$99.99**. These promotions highlight some of the best prices seen this year for these sought-after accessories.

### iPad Air Price Cuts
All variants of the **M3 iPad Air** are now at least **$100 off**, with the 11-inch model starting at **$499**. This reduction applies to all colors and storage options, making it an ideal moment to acquire an iPad Air.

## Conclusion
With these impressive discounts on iPhones, Macs, and accessories, now is the perfect time for consumers to think about upgrading their Apple devices. Whether you’re hunting for a new phone, a powerful Mac, or essential accessories, the current offers provide meaningful savings across all categories.

Apple Explores Cutting-Edge Approach to Improve AI’s Compatibility with Users’ Writing Preferences

As increasing numbers of users depend on AI for tasks such as drafting emails and summarizing documents, one prevalent issue persists: the results often come off as overly generic. Even when advanced models like ChatGPT or Gemini receive comprehensive prompts, they seldom capture a user’s specific tone or voice without substantial manual adjustments. Apple is now introducing a potential fix.

In a new research publication set to be presented at the International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2025) next month, Apple researchers introduce PROSE, a method aimed at assisting large language models in more effectively discerning and adopting a user’s unique writing preferences by directly learning from their previous writing samples.

### How PROSE operates

The fundamental concept of PROSE (Preference Reasoning by Observing and Synthesizing Examples) is to advance beyond the standard alignment techniques of today, such as prompt engineering or reinforcement learning based on human feedback. Instead, the AI formulates an internal and interpretable profile of the user’s genuine writing style.

Rather than necessitating the user to manually supply style guides or modify numerous AI drafts, PROSE functions in two phases:

1. **Iterative Refinement**: The AI systematically compares its generated responses with actual examples from the user, fine-tuning its internal “preference description” until it yields an output that closely resembles the user’s writing.

2. **Consistency Verification**: To prevent fixation on a single example, which may not accurately reflect the user’s overall writing style, the AI verifies that any inferred preference (e.g., “use concise sentences” or “begin with humor”) remains consistent across various writing samples.

Essentially, PROSE creates a self-evolving style profile, tests it against multiple user examples, and uses that as a foundation for future outputs.

### Why this is significant for Apple Intelligence

Though the paper does not specifically name Apple products or services, the link is clear. As Apple delves further into personalized assistant functionalities, methods like PROSE could significantly impact Apple Intelligence’s ability to create texts that resonate more closely with each individual user.

With Apple also enabling developers to access its local models through the recently announced Foundation Models framework, envisioning a future where any application could utilize a system-wide, highly personalized writing assistant to enhance its writing capabilities is feasible.

### A new benchmark has emerged

In the research, Apple additionally presents a new benchmark dataset called PLUME (Preference Learning from User Emails and Memos) for assessing writing-style alignment techniques such as PROSE.

This supersedes an earlier dataset (PRELUDE) and aims to address common problems with LLM personalization assessments, such as superficial preference definitions or unrepresentative tasks.

Utilizing PLUME, the researchers juxtaposed PROSE with prior methodologies, including another preference-learning approach known as CIPHER and conventional in-context learning (ICL) techniques.

The outcome? PROSE surpassed CIPHER by 33% on crucial metrics and even outperformed ICL when paired with advanced models like GPT-4o.

Notably, the paper also indicates that merging PROSE with ICL offers the advantages of both approaches, resulting in up to a 9% enhancement over ICL alone.

### The overarching trend: AI that adapts to you and encourages ongoing engagement

The PROSE initiative aligns with a larger trend in AI research: enhancing assistants to be not only smarter but also more personalized. Whether it’s through on-device fine-tuning, preference modeling, or context-aware prompts, the race is on to bridge the gap between generic LLM outputs and the distinct voice of each user.

Naturally, genuine personalization carries substantial business incentives, as it lays the groundwork for ultimate platform lock-in. However, that is a topic for another discussion.

Siri AI Enhancements, Foldable iPhone Unveiling, and AirPods Pro 3 Release Schedule: Recent Speculations Clarified

### Apple Product Speculations: Weekly Briefing

This week’s installment of **Rumor Replay** at *9to5Mac* showcases several captivating updates concerning forthcoming Apple devices, including news on Siri’s AI improvements, the expected iPhone Fold, delays for AirPods Pro 3, and indications of a new Apple TV 4K.

#### Siri’s AI Developments Confirmed for 2026

In the latest WWDC presentation, Apple confirmed the postponement of Siri’s AI enhancements but offered no further specifics. Nonetheless, it has now been established that these updates are planned for a 2026 launch, particularly focusing on iOS 26.4 in the spring. Apple’s initiative to revamp Siri’s framework aims to guarantee the quality of these improvements, raising hopes for a notable enhancement in performance.

#### iPhone Fold Manufacturing Update

Ming-Chi Kuo has provided insights on the much-anticipated ‘iPhone Fold.’ Apple has completed the display components, which will feature a 7.8-inch inner screen and a 5.5-inch outer screen. While initial product assembly is expected to start later this year, critical specifications, especially concerning the device’s hinge, remain in the finalization stage. This development suggests that a 2026 debut for the foldable iPhone is increasingly plausible.

#### AirPods Pro 3 Postponement

The release of AirPods Pro 3, initially expected this fall, is now anticipated to be delayed until 2026. Analyst Jeff Pu has verified previous reports that significant new hardware for AirPods will not materialize this year. This alteration in schedule implies that consumers might have to wait longer than expected for the next generation of AirPods.

#### Upcoming Apple TV 4K with Integrated Camera

Recent software updates have pointed towards a new Apple TV 4K, likely incorporating a built-in camera. Reports indicate that the forthcoming tvOS 26 will support new FaceTime functionalities, suggesting that Apple may be gearing up to embed a camera into the Apple TV 4K. This addition could enhance the device’s capabilities and align with Apple’s broader ambitions in visual technology.

### Conclusion

This week’s speculations illustrate a blend of excitement and delays for various Apple devices. With substantial Siri upgrades postponed to 2026, promising advancements for the iPhone Fold, and the AirPods Pro 3 facing setbacks, Apple fans have much to anticipate, though some patience will be necessary. The indications of a new Apple TV 4K also point to thrilling progress in Apple’s home entertainment strategy.

Class Action Lawsuit Initiated Against Apple for Supposed App Store Cryptocurrency Fraud

### Apple Confronts Class Action Lawsuit Over Cryptocurrency Fraud App

In a new turn of events regarding the ongoing examination of Apple’s App Store operations, a class action lawsuit has been initiated against the technology giant in the Northern District of California. The lawsuit focuses on an application called Swiftcrypt, which allegedly pretended to be a genuine cryptocurrency trading platform but was, in reality, part of a larger scam referred to as “pig butchering.” This kind of scam tricks users into depositing escalating sums of money before locking them out and vanishing with their investments.

#### The Claims

The lead plaintiff, Danyell Shin, asserts that she installed Swiftcrypt in late 2024 after being introduced to it via an online investment group. Believing in the app due to its availability on the Apple App Store, she reportedly deposited over $80,000 into the platform, only to lose all her money when the app became unavailable. The lawsuit claims that Apple’s promotions and messaging regarding the App Store significantly contributed to users’ trust in the app. The complaint underlines Apple’s statements that the App Store is a “safe and trusted place” and focuses on the company’s assertions about its stringent app evaluation processes and fraud detection systems.

#### Deceptive Claims

The lawsuit argues that Apple’s claims about the safety and security of applications on its platform were untrue and misleading. It references the company’s own guidelines for cryptocurrency apps, which necessitate licensing, regulatory adherence, and developer validation, arguing that these standards were not applied in the case of Swiftcrypt. The plaintiffs contend that the app should never have been permitted on the App Store and that users like Shin were deceived into thinking they were acquiring a secure product.

#### Consumer Safety Issues

Apart from the monetary losses experienced by users, the lawsuit raises broader concerns about Apple’s App Store security narrative under California consumer protection statutes. The plaintiffs contend that users “overpaid” for their iPhones, as part of the assumed value was associated with the safety and security assurances linked to the App Store. The complaint implies that Apple’s profits are not solely generated from app sales or in-app transactions but also from the extra value that the perceived safety of the App Store grants to its devices.

#### Demands from the Complainants

Alongside requesting financial restitution for the losses incurred, the plaintiffs are urging Apple to initiate a corrective advertising campaign aimed at confronting what they call a widespread public misconception regarding App Store safety. They argue that such a campaign is essential to rebuild trust in the platform and illuminate the true state of app security.

### Conclusion

This lawsuit contributes to the ongoing discussion concerning Apple’s App Store practices and the obligations of tech companies in safeguarding user safety. As the case progresses, it will be vital to watch how Apple addresses these accusations and whether it will take measures to improve its app evaluation processes to avert similar occurrences in the future.

DuckDuckGo Scam Blocker Discovers Deceptive E-Commerce Sites, Cryptocurrency Platforms, Malware Notifications, and Additional Threats

**DuckDuckGo Improves Anti-Scam Functionality with New Scam Blocker**

The privacy-centric web browser DuckDuckGo has recently enhanced its anti-scam functionality by launching a feature aimed at identifying and blocking fraudulent ecommerce platforms, cryptocurrency websites, virus alerts, and more. This upgrade is available at no cost to all users on both Mac and iOS platforms, removing the necessity for a Privacy Pro subscription.

Historically, DuckDuckGo provided defenses against typical phishing and malware threats, in addition to harmful advertisements. However, these features have now been unified and rebranded under the new Scam Blocker designation.

### New Safeguards Provided by Scam Blocker

The Scam Blocker brings two main protective measures:

1. **Fraudulent Investment Websites and Surveys**: This aspect focuses on sites that seek to trick users into divulging personal information or making unwise financial choices. These scams can include a range of deceptive offers, such as investment programs, cryptocurrency trading, discounted medications, and cash incentive surveys. Frequently, these sites seem credible, but their offers are usually “too good to be true.”

2. **Scareware**: These misleading sites falsely assert that a user’s device is plagued by spyware or viruses. Scareware fosters a sense of urgency, deceiving users into pursuing fake tech support or acquiring unnecessary antivirus solutions.

Alongside these new protections, the Scam Blocker maintains previously established defenses against:

– **Phishing Websites**: These sites impersonate official businesses to steal login information or sensitive data. Cybercriminals frequently construct fake websites that resemble well-known brands or use link rerouting to mislead users.

– **Malware Websites**: Downloading files from such sites can result in malware infections, potentially harming devices or stealing personal data. Some malware sites automatically initiate downloads without user consent.

– **Tracker-Based Malicious Advertisements**: Referred to as “malvertising,” this method incorporates malware-infested ads within legitimate websites. Certain harmful ads can compromise systems without any user clicks.

### Shielding Users from Identity Theft and Fraud

DuckDuckGo’s goal is to protect users from the rising dangers of identity theft and fraud, specifically scams that mislead individuals into spending money on non-existent goods and services. When a user clicks on a link leading to a recognized scam, DuckDuckGo will prevent the page from loading and show an alert.

In contrast to Safari, which relies on Google’s Safe Browsing Service to notify users about phishing sites—thus transmitting data regarding visited sites to Google—DuckDuckGo’s mechanism is entirely anonymized and does not share information with external parties.

While the Scam Blocker feature is available for free to DuckDuckGo browser users, a Privacy Pro subscription is necessary to utilize the VPN, which extends protection to browsers like Safari and Chrome.

### Conclusion

DuckDuckGo’s upgrades to its anti-scam features demonstrate its dedication to user privacy and safety. With the launch of the Scam Blocker, users can explore the internet with enhanced assurance, knowing they are shielded from a diverse range of online dangers.

Apple Explores Generative AI to Improve Chip Development, Claims Hardware Chief

**Apple’s Investigation of Generative AI in Chip Development**

Recently, Johny Srouji, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies, disclosed at an event organized by the Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre (imec) in Belgium that Apple is examining the application of generative AI to improve its custom silicon design process. This inquiry aims to utilize AI’s capabilities to boost productivity and efficiency in chip creation.

### Increased Design Output in Shorter Timeframe

In his address, Srouji highlighted the “significant potential” of AI-supported tools in Apple’s chip design process. He mentioned that these tools could deliver a considerable increase in productivity, allowing the company to achieve “greater design work accomplished in shorter time.” This strategy reflects the industry’s escalating trend of embedding AI into Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools, which are essential for managing the intricacies of chip creation.

Apple presently employs EDA tools from leading vendors such as Cadence and Synopsys. These firms are proactively integrating generative AI functionalities into their systems, which assist in automating and accelerating layout and verification processes that conventionally require extensive manual engineering work. Srouji recognized the crucial role these EDA companies have in facilitating Apple’s chip design challenges.

### Perspectives on Apple Silicon Transition

Alongside discussing AI’s possibilities, Srouji offered insights into Apple’s shift from Intel-based Macs to Apple Silicon, which commenced in 2020. He portrayed this transition as a “substantial gamble” without a contingency plan, asserting, “There was no backup plan, no split-the-lineup plan. So we went all in, encompassing a monumental software initiative.” This frank commentary underscores the risks and commitments intrinsic to Apple’s strategic pivot towards its silicon architecture.

### Industry Background and Future Consequences

Srouji’s comments are not unexpected, as numerous companies are investigating generative AI to hasten silicon design processes. Nevertheless, Apple’s prior reluctance to adopt generative AI in consumer-facing applications makes its current exploration of the technology for internal engineering processes especially remarkable. This transition suggests a potential change in how Apple addresses chip design, potentially resulting in more innovative and efficient products in the future.

As the field of chip design progresses with AI advancements, Apple’s dedication to integrating these technologies could strategically position the company in the competitive semiconductor market. The collaboration with EDA vendors and the exploration of generative AI tools might ultimately enhance Apple’s ability to produce state-of-the-art silicon for its devices.

Anker Announces Recall for PowerCore 10000 Power Bank Because of Fire Safety Risk

### Anker PowerCore 10000 Recall: Key Safety Details

Anker, in partnership with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, has declared a recall of the Anker PowerCore 10000 power bank due to a possible fire safety concern linked to its lithium-ion battery. This recall pertains to units produced between January 1, 2016, and October 30, 2019, and sold in the United States from June 1, 2016, to December 31, 2022.

#### Recall Information

The model specifically affected by this recall is the Anker PowerCore 10000 (Model: A1263). The problem identified is that some power banks may overheat, resulting in the melting of plastic parts and presenting a risk of smoke and fire hazards.

If you possess an Anker PowerCore 10000, it is vital to verify the product information found on the bottom of the unit. Look for these identifiers:

– PowerCore 10000
– A1263

If either of these identifiers is found, you should cease using the power bank immediately and make sure it is disconnected from any electrical source.

#### Replacement and Claim Steps

Anker is providing two options for customers to address this situation:

1. A replacement unit with the same capacity.
2. A $30 Amazon gift card.

To start the claim, there is no need to return the recalled unit. Instead, you must take two pictures of the power bank:
– One photo displaying the model number and serial number (SN) found on the bottom of the device.
– Another photo of the power bank with the submission date and the word “recall” or “recalled” written on it in permanent marker.

You may then fill out the claim form available on Anker’s website.

#### Instructions for Disposal

Before disposing of the recalled power bank, await confirmation from Anker that your unit is affected. Extra caution should be exercised when discarding lithium-ion batteries, as they must not be placed in standard e-waste recycling bins.

Municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection facilities may accept these recalled batteries; however, it is recommended to contact them in advance to verify their policies regarding recalled lithium-ion batteries. If they do not accept them, consult your local municipality for further instructions.

#### Final Thoughts

Anker is a well-respected brand, and this recall highlights its dedication to consumer safety. Users must remain alert about the products they buy, especially those involving lithium-ion batteries, and steer clear of unknown brands that may not provide sufficient safety features. For additional information regarding the recall and the claims process, please visit Anker’s official recall page.

9to5Mac Overtime Episode 050: Unveiling a True Computer

### Jeff: Head of Video Content Production at 9to5

Jeff has made a name for himself as a key player in technology content creation, particularly as the leader of video content production for 9to5. His path began in 2016 when he became part of 9to5Mac, a premier source for Apple news and insights. Since that time, he has played a crucial role in creating a diverse range of video content, such as walkthroughs, how-tos, written guides, and reviews tailored for both tech aficionados and everyday users.

#### Expertise in Simplifying Technology

One of Jeff’s most remarkable traits is his knack for breaking down complicated technological ideas into straightforward, clear, and concise explanations. This talent has rendered his videos accessible to a wide audience, enabling viewers to understand intricate details without feeling daunted. His method is especially advantageous for those without a technical background who are eager to learn about the latest technological advancements.

#### Impact and Reach

Jeff’s input at 9to5Mac has led to videos that have accumulated hundreds of millions of views. This notable reach highlights the appetite for premium tech content and showcases Jeff’s proficiency in connecting with viewers. His videos not only educate but also empower audiences to make well-informed choices regarding their tech purchases and applications.

#### Content Variety

The diversity of content that Jeff creates is another essential aspect of his role. From thorough product reviews that evaluate the newest gadgets to useful how-to tutorials that assist users in overcoming software and hardware obstacles, Jeff guarantees that there is content available for everyone. His walkthroughs are particularly favored, as they offer step-by-step guidance that clarifies processes and improves user experience.

#### Subscribe for More

For those keen on keeping abreast of the latest in technology, subscribing to 9to5Mac on YouTube is highly advisable. Jeff’s newest videos deliver insights into new products, software upgrades, and tips that can improve user interactions with technology. His commitment to quality content continues to significantly impact the tech community.

In summary, Jeff’s position as the head of video content production at 9to5 has revolutionized how technology is showcased and comprehended. His commitment to clarity and accessibility has established him as a reliable source for millions of viewers looking to navigate the constantly changing tech landscape.