Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Official macOS Tahoe 26 Backgrounds Now Ready for Download

### macOS Tahoe 26 Wallpaper Collection

Having wrapped up the WWDC 2025 keynote, Apple has introduced the first developer beta of macOS Tahoe 26. This latest system features both light and dark default wallpapers crafted to align with the modern design language of the OS.

#### Key Features of macOS Tahoe 26

In conjunction with the launch of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and the updated suite of operating systems, macOS 26 introduces a range of thrilling features:

– **Liquid Glass Aesthetic**: A revitalized look that boosts the visual charm of the user interface.
– **Continuity Functions**: Fresh integrations with the Phone app and Live Activities, facilitating smooth interactions across different devices.
– **Enhanced Spotlight**: Improved search functions for faster access to files and applications.
– **New Games Application**: A focused area for gaming, catering to the increasing demand for mobile and desktop gaming experiences.

#### Accessing the Wallpapers

The latest wallpapers can be downloaded, offering users a refreshed appearance for their desktops. Whether you lean towards the light or dark mode, these wallpapers are created to harmonize with the overall design of macOS Tahoe 26.

For updates and complete coverage of WWDC 2025, check out the

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iOS 26 Brings New Capabilities to Minimize Spam Calls and Messages on iPhones

# iOS 26: Enhanced Features to Address Spam Calls and Messages

iOS 26 is poised to be the upcoming major update for iPhone users, featuring a Liquid Glass redesign along with various improvements. Among the most awaited updates are fresh tools specifically crafted to confront the widespread problem of spam calls and messages that numerous users face on a daily basis.

## Objective of the New Features

Apple has acknowledged the annoyance caused by unwanted communications and has created multiple features within the Phone and Messages applications focused on granting users enhanced control over their incoming communications.

### Handle Unwanted Calls

One of the prominent features is **Call Screening**, which automatically picks up calls from unidentified numbers without disrupting the user. The caller is asked to state their name and the reason for the call. Once this information is given, the phone will ring, enabling the user to choose whether to take the call or not.

### Evaluate New Senders

Another notable enhancement is the capability to **Screen New Senders**. This feature rolls out new screening tools that can identify spam messages, empowering users to accept or decline unknown numbers. This will aid in keeping a neater conversation list in the Messages app and a more pertinent recent calls list in the Phone and FaceTime apps.

### Allow the Phone App to Wait on Hold for You

Beyond spam handling, iOS 26 presents **Hold Assist**, a feature that permits the Phone app to stay on hold for the user while they seek help from a live representative. This feature preserves the user’s position in line and sends a notification when an agent becomes available, improving the overall user experience.

## Expected Impact

If iOS 26 effectively tackles the spam issue, it could significantly improve user satisfaction. The amalgamation of these features aims to ensure that users receive only the communications they truly desire, minimizing the irritation of spam calls and messages.

As the public rollout of iOS 26 nears this fall, users are keen to discover how well these new tools function in real-life situations. The expectation is that the Phone and Messages apps will soon be free from unsolicited interruptions.

For continual updates from WWDC and further details about iOS 26, users can check the dedicated news hub.

## Conclusion

The new features in iOS 26 mark a noteworthy progression in managing unwanted communications. With tools such as Call Screening, new sender screening, and Hold Assist, Apple is proactively working to improve user experience and minimize spam. As the release date draws near, users are encouraged to express their opinions on these advancements.

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iOS 26 Developer Beta 1 Now Available for iPhone Users

### iOS 26 Beta 1 for iPhone: An In-Depth Look

Apple has officially released iOS 26 beta 1 for developers, heralding the start of a new chapter in iPhone software. Unveiled during the WWDC 2025 keynote presentation, this update indicates a transition from the previous incremental versioning model to an annual reference, following the rollout of iOS 18.

#### Availability and Installation

Developers can obtain iOS 26 beta 1 as an over-the-air software update through the Settings application on their devices, as long as they have activated the developer beta software option. This preliminary access enables developers to begin modifying their applications to incorporate the new features and design aspects that iOS 26 will offer.

#### Major Redesign: Liquid Glass

A key feature of iOS 26 is its major redesign, which replaces the long-established look that debuted with iOS 7. The fresh design language, named “Liquid Glass,” intends to create a more contemporary and visually striking interface. This update will be compatible with iPhone 11 and later devices, with a complete launch anticipated in the fall.

#### Caution for Users

As is the case with any beta software, iOS 26 beta 1 carries certain warnings. It is a pre-release version, meaning numerous features may be unfinished, unstable, or entirely missing. Users might encounter unexpected issues with third-party applications, and Apple strongly recommends utilizing this beta version solely on devices designated for testing.

#### Public Beta Program

In addition to the developer beta, Apple provides a public beta program for early adopters eager to test the new software and share their insights. Although these public beta releases generally offer greater stability than developer versions, users should still remain mindful of the possibility of bugs and incomplete functionalities.

#### Conclusion

iOS 26 beta 1 signifies an exhilarating advancement for both iPhone users and developers. With its innovative design and features, it lays the groundwork for an enhanced user experience. For continuous updates and information related to iOS 26, users can check out 9to5Mac’s WWDC 2025 News Hub.

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Important Announcement: iPadOS 26 Removes Multitasking Features of Split View and Slide Over

# iPadOS 26: A New Chapter in Multitasking

Apple’s iPadOS 26 brings notable transformations to the multitasking functionality on iPads, spotlighting a new windowing system aimed at boosting productivity. However, this enhancement entails the discontinuation of two long-standing features: Split View and Slide Over.

## The Transformation of Multitasking Features

In the past, Apple has introduced multiple multitasking options within iPadOS, enabling users to operate several applications at once. Split View allowed users to position two apps next to each other, either in a 50-50 or 66-33 layout, while Slide Over facilitated a floating app that could be activated from the screen’s edge. These features offered a versatile multitasking setting that many users relied upon.

With the launch of iPadOS 26, Apple has chosen to remove both Split View and Slide Over in favor of a more sophisticated windowing approach. This adjustment signifies a notable shift from earlier versions of iPadOS, where various multitasking capabilities existed together.

## The Innovative Windowing System

The updated windowing capabilities in iPadOS 26 aim to deliver a more robust and adaptable multitasking experience. Although users can mimic certain aspects of Split View and Slide Over, the overall functionality of multitasking in iPadOS 26 is considerably different. The new system permits more varied app configurations and interactions, though the specific utility of Slide Over is particularly hard to replicate.

## Stage Manager’s Ongoing Role

Curiously, even with the discontinuation of Split View and Slide Over, Stage Manager retains its position in the multitasking framework of iPadOS 26. This feature enables users to handle numerous open windows more efficiently, allowing for seamless app switching. The choice to keep Stage Manager indicates that Apple is concentrating on enhancing this feature while distancing itself from older multitasking strategies.

## Anticipated Updates and User Input

As the first beta of iPadOS 26 has been launched, there remains an opportunity for modifications to the multitasking features prior to the official release in the fall. Apple might take into account user feedback and implement changes to refine the overall experience.

## Conclusion

The unveiling of a new multitasking framework in iPadOS 26 marks a daring move by Apple, emphasizing improved functionality over familiar features. While the removal of Split View and Slide Over may catch some users off guard, the emphasis on a more efficient windowing solution could result in a more productive workflow for iPad users. As the software progresses, it will be intriguing to observe the reception of these modifications and whether Apple will implement additional changes based on user feedback.

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Apple to Cease Support for Intel Macs in 2024; macOS 27 Will Be Exclusively Compatible with Apple Silicon

**Apple’s Shift to Apple Silicon: The Conclusion of Intel Support with macOS 26 Tahoe**

At the recent Platforms State of the Union during WWDC, Apple revealed a major alteration in its macOS approach: macOS 26 Tahoe will be the final release of the operating system that supports Intel-based Macs. This represents a crucial moment in Apple’s transition to its own Apple Silicon architecture, which started with the launch of the M1 chip in 2020.

### The Consequences of macOS 26 Tahoe

Beginning next year, significant updates to macOS will be exclusively available for Apple Silicon Macs, particularly those released in 2020 and beyond. Consequently, users with Intel Macs will be unable to utilize new features or upgrades that arrive with macOS 27 and subsequent iterations. While Apple will persist in providing essential security updates for Intel Macs for a limited duration, users should not anticipate any new functionalities.

### Existing Compatibility with macOS 26 Tahoe

Even though macOS Tahoe is the final version to cater to Intel Macs, not every Intel model is compatible. Specifically, macOS Tahoe does not support certain older models, including the Intel MacBook Air and Mac mini. However, it does accommodate particular Intel Macs, such as:

– 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro
– 2020 Intel 13-inch MacBook Pro
– 2020 iMac
– 2019 Mac Pro

As indicated by Apple, it is probable that macOS 27 will eliminate support for these older devices completely, rendering macOS 26 Tahoe the last compatible version for them. Owners of these models can expect to receive security updates for an extra three years, ensuring some degree of safeguarding even as they forgo new features.

### The Outlook for macOS

Looking ahead, Apple will concentrate on supporting hardware from 2020 onward, coinciding with the commencement of its Apple Silicon transition. The introduction of the M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBook Pros in 2021 further reinforced this transition, as Apple continues to innovate and refine its operating systems tailored for its own chip architecture.

In summary, the announcement regarding macOS 26 Tahoe marks a significant juncture for Apple and its user community. As the company fully adopts its Apple Silicon technology, Intel Mac users will need to adjust to the reality of restricted future support and consider upgrading to newer models to remain aligned with macOS developments.

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iOS 26 Brings Major Updates to the Camera Interface: Essential Features and Enhancements

# Apple Revamps Camera App in iOS 26: A Simplified Interface

With the launch of iOS 26, Apple plans to overhaul the Camera app, concentrating on a more simplified and intuitive interface. This revamp seeks to elevate the photography experience by emphasizing vital functions while reducing visual clutter.

## Photos and Videos in the Spotlight

One of the key alterations in the revamped Camera app is the focus on the Photo and Video modes. After years of adding multiple modes, toggles, and gestures, Apple has opted to streamline the primary camera display. Users will notice that the main options for capturing photos and videos are now at the forefront, making access to these essential features more straightforward.

Additional capture options, such as Cinematic, Portrait, and Slo-Mo modes, are still available but can now be accessed with a simple swipe left or right. This modification enables users to swiftly switch between modes without inundating the interface with excessive visible options.

## Improved Access to Settings

The new design also enhances how users access pertinent settings. By swiping up within a chosen mode, users can uncover important settings like Exposure, Timer, and Aperture. This gesture-based interaction keeps the interface tidy while ensuring that advanced tools remain easily reachable.

Moreover, controls for resolution and frame rate have been moved to the top of the display, alongside toggles for Flash and Night Mode. Users can long-press these icons to access extended configuration menus, offering a more intuitive way to modify settings on the move.

## Minimizing Visual Clutter

Apple’s objective with this redesign is to minimize visual clutter while preserving access to sophisticated photography tools. By streamlining the interface, the company aims to foster a more targeted experience for users, enabling them to focus on capturing the ideal shot without interruptions.

The reimagined Camera app is currently featured in the iOS 26 developer beta and is anticipated to be fully launched in September.

For continuous updates and thorough coverage of WWDC25, users can check the dedicated news hub.

## Conclusion

The newly designed Camera app in iOS 26 signifies Apple’s dedication to enhancing user experience through simplicity and efficiency. With the most frequently utilized functions highlighted and advanced settings readily accessible, users can anticipate a more pleasurable photography experience. User feedback regarding the new interface is welcomed, as Apple works on refining its software offerings.

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visionOS 26 Developer Beta 1 Launched

# Apple Introduces visionOS 26: Developer Beta Now Accessible

Apple has formally revealed the rollout of visionOS 26 during its recent WWDC25 keynote address. This latest operating system is part of Apple’s revamped collection, which also features iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and additional offerings. The developer beta for visionOS 26 is now accessible, enabling developers to delve into its new functionalities and improvements.

## Notable Features of visionOS 26

visionOS 26 brings forth a variety of thrilling features aimed at enhancing user interaction and compatibility. Key additions comprise:

– **PlayStation VR2 Sense Compatibility**: This integration allows users to enjoy immersive gaming and applications, broadening the horizons for entertainment on the Apple Vision Pro.
– **Spatial Widgets**: These innovative widgets offer a more engaging and dynamic method for accessing information and applications, capitalizing on the spatial computing features of the device.
– **Look to Scroll**: This groundbreaking feature permits users to navigate through content simply by gazing at it, improving accessibility and user-friendliness.
– **Performance Enhancements**: Behind-the-scenes improvements focus on boosting the overall stability and efficiency of the operating system.

## How to Download the visionOS Developer Beta

Developers eager to explore the new features can sign up for the developer beta program by adhering to these steps:

1. Open the **Settings** app on your device.
2. Select **General**.
3. Choose **Software Update**.
4. Tap on **Beta Updates**.
5. Select **visionOS Developer Beta**.

It’s essential to recognize that Apple has not yet issued the complete set of release notes for visionOS 26, but they will be available [here](https://developer.apple.com/go/?id=visionos-26_0-rn).

## Warning for Beta Users

As with any preliminary beta release, users must be mindful of possible instability. Applications may not operate correctly, features might show unpredictable behavior, and overall performance may fluctuate. It is recommended to proceed with caution, particularly when installing the beta on a primary device.

For ongoing updates and detailed coverage of WWDC25, visit the

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Latest Additions in the Messages Application with iOS 26

# iOS 26 Upgrades Messages with Revamped Design, Group Chat Enhancements, and More

Apple announced iOS 26 today, revealing a wealth of new functionalities for the Messages app that improve user interaction and capability. Here’s an in-depth overview of what’s coming to iPhones later this year.

## New ‘Liquid Glass’ Redesign

A highlight of iOS 26 is the innovative **‘Liquid Glass’ redesign** for the Messages app. This redesign introduces a refreshing look for the app, updating buttons and user interface elements to fit with the overall aesthetics of iOS 26. The modifications strive to offer a familiar yet contemporary experience for users.

## Enhancements for Group Chats

Apple has significantly focused on enhancing the group chat experience in iOS 26. Notable upgrades include:

– **Typing Indicators**: Users will now see real-time indicators displaying who is typing in both individual and group chat threads, making conversations more engaging.

– **Polls**: The addition of polls lets users efficiently gather feedback from group members, simplifying decision-making processes.

– **Apple Cash Integration**: Group chats will now feature Apple Cash support, allowing users to send and receive payments directly within the chat.

Moreover, users can personalize conversations with **background images**, including the ability to generate AI-created backgrounds through a simple request in the Image Playground.

## Live Translation Feature

iOS 26 also features a **live translation** capability driven by Apple Intelligence, enhancing communication with friends or family who speak various languages. This innovation intends to eliminate language obstacles and foster better connections.

## Spam Prevention Measures

To fight against spam, iOS 26 incorporates **message screening** for unfamiliar senders. Users will gain enhanced control over their conversation lists, as messages from unknown senders will be rerouted to a separate folder. Here, users can opt to mark the sender as known, seek additional information, or discard the message. Until permitted, these messages will remain muted, ensuring a tidier messaging experience.

## RCS Enhancements

Though not officially confirmed, iOS 26 is anticipated to incorporate **RCS enhancements**, including support for end-to-end encryption, further bolstering the security and privacy of messages.

## Cross-Platform Availability

The new functionalities in iOS 26’s Messages app will also extend to Apple’s other platforms, such as Mac and iPad, via companion software updates like macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26.

## Conclusion

The forthcoming features in iOS 26 are set to greatly improve the Messages app, enhancing its user-friendliness and richness in features. With advancements in group chats, customization choices, and spam prevention, Apple continues to push boundaries in the messaging domain. What are your opinions on the new Messages features in iOS 26?

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iOS 26 Launches Liquid Glass Lock Screen Functionality, Spatial Wallpapers, Live Now Playing, and Extra Improvements

Apple has revamped the iOS 26 Lock Screen to fully utilize Liquid Glass, its innovative unifying UI concept that spans all of its operating systems. Featuring dynamic fonts, 3D effects, and an animated Now Playing interface, Apple truly excelled with this iteration. Here’s what’s fresh.

### Dynamic Clock

Let’s begin with the most noticeable alteration: the Lock Screen clock. Apple has substituted the previous static arrangement with one that feels much more dynamic. The digits now subtly change in weight, width, and height based on your photo, cleverly positioning themselves around subjects using what Apple describes as a tailored version of the San Francisco typeface.

### Parallax Effect

Apple is also employing on-device computer vision to create spatial depth maps from your images. The outcome: an almost 3D-like parallax effect that responds as you shift your iPhone.

### Animated Now Playing Widget

As 9to5Mac reported exclusively last week, music enthusiasts now enjoy a full-screen Now Playing widget, which delicately animates in harmony with the playback UI. It’s a minor detail, but it enhances the Lock Screen’s liveliness and personalization.

For the latest updates and comprehensive coverage of WWDC25, visit our news hub.

What are your thoughts on the new iOS 26 lock screen? Share your feedback in the comments.

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Apple Music Unveils Much Awaited Feature in iOS 26

# Pinned Music: A Crucial New Feature in iOS 26 for Apple Music

iOS 26 is a comprehensive update for iPhone users, with one standout feature being the new addition to Apple Music: pinned music.

## Pinned Music in Apple Music

Apple Music in iOS 26 unveils a new Liquid Glass design that improves the visual appeal of the platform. Nevertheless, the most thrilling update is the capability to pin albums, playlists, and artists for easy access.

Users can quickly pin their preferred music by long-pressing on the selected item and choosing the ‘Pin Playlist,’ ‘Pin Album,’ or ‘Pin Artist’ options. Once pinned, these items will be displayed at the top of the Library tab in the Music app.

Currently, in the iOS 26 beta 1, users can pin a maximum of six items at once, although this limit may change prior to the public release later this fall. The pinned items can include a variety, such as one artist, several playlists, and a few albums.

## Reasons to Be Excited for Pinned Music

While iOS 26 is still in its initial beta phase, the launch of pinned music is a beneficial addition. Here are two main reasons to anticipate this feature:

1. **Simplified Access to Favorite Music**: Pinned music enables users to reach their favorite tracks more effortlessly than before.

2. **Prompt for Music to Discover**: In the current streaming age, certain artists, albums, or playlists can easily be overlooked. The pinning feature acts as a prompt, assisting users in remembering music they wish to listen to each time they access the Music app.

With this new capability, users can elevate their music experience by keeping their favorite tracks easily accessible and rediscovering music they may have missed.

As iOS 26 continues to evolve, the pinned music feature is set to become an essential asset for Apple Music users.

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