Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Insights on Two Upcoming iPhone Designs for Next Year’s Models Unveiled by Leaker

### iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 17e Design Insights: What to Anticipate

Today, we shared news regarding camera enhancements for the iPhone 18 Pro. Now, the same source has outlined what to anticipate regarding the designs of two upcoming iPhone models slated for next year.

The leaker known as Digital Chat Station (DCS), who initially mentioned the iPhone 18 Pro adopting a variable aperture lens, has now provided insights into the anticipated designs for two new models: the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone 17e.

In the comments to his initial post, the Weibo leaker elaborated further on the 18 Pro and also highlighted features coming to the iPhone 17e.

As for the iPhone 18 Pro, he asserts that the new model will maintain the same fundamental rear camera design as the current 17 Pro model. This indicates that the full-width camera ‘plateau’ will be the same as what was introduced in this year’s Pro models. It remains uncertain whether this will affect the appearance of the glass cutout beneath the plateau. Earlier, DCS mentioned that the cutout would have a slightly different transparent appearance on the 18 Pro. So aside from speculated new colors, there may still be an alteration to the lower half of the device.

Concerning the iPhone 17e, anticipated for early next year, DCS notes that the display will incorporate a Dynamic Island. The existing iPhone 16e utilizes a conventional notch design. This aligns with previous information DCS has shared about the 17e, but this time he includes a new detail: the display will be limited to 60Hz. This isn’t a significant revelation, as Apple has only recently introduced ProMotion support to the base model iPhone for the first time with the iPhone 17. We may need to wait at least another year before ProMotion appears in the budget ‘e’ model.

Finally, in response to inquiries regarding the basic model iPhone 18, DCS stated that he has not yet encountered specifications for that particular design, only for the iPhone 18 Pro.

What design modifications would you like to see in the upcoming iPhone? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Neato Cloud Closure Emphasizes Difficulties Encountered by Businesses in Backing Smart Devices

The Neato cloud server essential for operating the shuttered company’s robotic vacuum cleaners is set to be terminated three years ahead of the original schedule, effectively transforming the smart devices into non-functional ones.

The parent firm had originally assured that the MyNeato app would remain operational until 2028, but it has now reversed this commitment and will discontinue support before the end of this year. This serves as a further reminder of the significance of choosing smart products that feature either HomeKit or Matter compatibility.

## Smart products rendered useless or downgraded

Regrettably, it’s not unusual for a company’s demise to lead to smart products being entirely rendered unusable or, at best, downgraded to basic functionality. Numerous applications necessitate server access, so when a company collapses or halts operations and the server goes offline, the smart capabilities can be forfeited. In extreme scenarios, a product may become wholly inoperable.

We first drew attention to this problem back in 2023 when the electric bike manufacturer VanMoof went bankrupt, leaving users facing the possibility of being unable to unlock their bicycles.

> While unlocking is enabled via Bluetooth when the phone approaches the bike, it depends on a rolling key code – and that feature in turn depends on access to a VanMoof server. If the company fails, then with no server, there’s no key code generation, hence no unlock.

Fortunately, in that instance, a third-party entity stepped forward with a solution, and the company was eventually saved.

A similar situation arose last year with smart home firm Brilliant.

> If the company’s servers become unavailable, Brilliant light switches will continue to function, but you will be unable to modify existing scenes, create new ones, or incorporate additional devices. This would be a significant setback for customers who have invested heavily in devices marketed as semi-professional equipment, with each switch priced between $399 and $549.

## Neato robovacs will operate only manually

Neato Robotics ceased operations in 2023, but the parent company had vowed that the MyNeato app would stay functional for an additional five years. However, The Verge has reported today that the company has notified customers, retracting this assurance.

> Users are receiving messages informing them that their Neato robovacs will lose access to cloud services, meaning they can no longer be managed through the robots’ MyNeato app.

In a correspondence obtained by The Verge, Neato Robotics clarified the reasoning behind the decision, stating, “Since Neato ceased operations in 2023, Vorwerk has continued to support the Neato cloud platform to fulfill the original five-year service commitment. However, advancements in cybersecurity standards, compliance requirements, and regulations have made it impractical to securely and sustainably operate these legacy systems.”

As a result, the only method to utilize the vacuums will be by manually pressing the start button, and it will not be feasible to adjust the cleaning schedules or select options for targeted cleaning in specific rooms or areas.

## The significance of HomeKit or Matter compatibility

As previously mentioned, such occurrences emphasize the necessity of purchasing only smart home products that are compatible with either HomeKit or Matter.

> There isn’t a flawless solution since some features may be limited to the company’s proprietary app or require access to the company’s server. However, opting for devices that are either HomeKit or Matter compliant will at least guarantee that they cannot be rendered inoperable if a company ceases to exist. It will always be feasible to retain access to at least core functionalities – including modifying and creating new scenes – via Apple’s Home app.

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Apple Pay VP Talks About New Wallet Capabilities, Digital Identifications, and Further Improvements

### Apple Pay and Apple Wallet: Innovations and Impact

At the recent Money20/20 USA conference, Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, provided important updates regarding the company’s payment solutions, emphasizing their progress in fraud mitigation and the increasing features of Apple Wallet.

#### Fraud Prevention Success

Bailey disclosed that Apple Pay has successfully thwarted over $1 billion in fraudulent activities in the previous year. This remarkable statistic highlights the efficiency of Apple Pay’s security protocols, which reportedly diminish fraud incidences by more than 60% when contrasted with traditional credit and debit card methods. In certain instances, this drop can soar to 90%, showcasing the formidable fraud prevention capabilities of Apple Pay.

#### Widespread Acceptance

The adoption of Apple Pay has surged dramatically since its inception in 2014. Presently, it is accepted by 90% of retailers across the United States, a substantial rise from a mere 3% at the start. Apple Pay is now operational in 89 markets worldwide, collaborating with 11,000 banks and payment networks, rendering it a broadly endorsed payment option.

#### Expanding Apple Wallet Features

Apple Wallet’s capabilities have progressed beyond merely Apple Pay. It now encompasses a range of functions such as transit cards, hotel keys, automobile keys, and digital IDs. Although these offerings have experienced slower uptake compared to Apple Pay, their utilization is gradually rising.

– **Transit Features**: Accessible in 250 regions and 800 cities globally.
– **Hotel Room Keys**: More than 2 million hotel room keys have been issued through Apple Wallet, backed by over 65,000 hotel rooms.
– **Car Keys**: Compatible with 29 automotive manufacturers, permitting users to unlock and start their vehicles with their iPhones.

One of the prominent features of Apple Wallet is its capability to store IDs and driver’s licenses. This feature, which commenced rollout in 2021, is presently supported in 12 states and Puerto Rico, as well as Japan’s My Number Card. Recently, West Virginia became the latest state to implement this feature.

#### Upcoming Features

Bailey also stated that Apple intends to introduce support for US passports in Apple Wallet by year’s end. This functionality will enable users to present their IDs at select TSA checkpoints during domestic flights, enhancing air travel convenience.

#### Tap to Pay Expansion

Another notable development is the broadening of the Tap to Pay on iPhone feature, permitting businesses to accept payments using solely an iPhone. This capability is presently available in 48 markets and employed by 15 million merchants, further reinforcing Apple’s standing in the payment processing arena.

#### Conclusion

The progress in Apple Pay and Apple Wallet signifies Apple’s dedication to improving user experience and security in digital transactions. With the increasing endorsement of Apple Pay and the growing features of Apple Wallet, users are progressively able to depend on their devices for a wide array of transactions and identification requirements. As these technologies continue to advance, they are set to transform the manner in which consumers engage with payment systems and digital identity.

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Spotify Unveils Upgraded Apple TV 4K Application with Major Feature Enhancements

**Updated Spotify Application for Apple TV: An Enhanced Experience**

New Apple TV 4K hardware is anticipated to launch shortly, and today Spotify revealed an updated tvOS application that aims to enhance the Spotify experience for Apple TV users like never before.

### Spotify for Apple TV Offers Improvements in Many Aspects

Today, Spotify is introducing a completely new, redesigned Apple TV app. Accessible through the tvOS App Store, the revamped app has been “rebuilt from the ground up to provide a quicker, more intelligent, and visually appealing experience based on user insights,” according to a Spotify representative.

Key features of the new Spotify app consist of:

– Fresh, updated design tailored for tvOS
– Enhanced video options for viewing podcasts or music videos
– Remote control functionality through Connect
– Newly available lyrics
– Spotify DJ suggestions
– Management of the queue
– Ability to modify podcast or video playback speed

The disparity between Apple Music and Spotify’s tvOS applications has historically been quite large. However, with this new update, it is hoped that Apple TV users will no longer feel like they are missing out on a premium big-screen experience with Spotify.

The advancements in video are particularly noteworthy as video podcasts have emerged as a significant growth sector for Spotify. Recently, Spotify secured a deal for select podcasts to be streamed exclusively via Netflix, and today’s Apple TV update represents another vital move toward enhancing Spotify content in the living room.

Will you be utilizing the new Spotify application for Apple TV 4K? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top Accessories for Apple TV 4K

*FTC: We employ revenue-generating auto affiliate links.*

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iPhone 18 Pro Could Introduce Variable Aperture Lens, Possibly Reserved for Pro Max Version, As per Leaker

A reputable leaker in the field of iPhone camera innovations has validated previous claims that the iPhone 18 Pro will incorporate a variable aperture lens, marking a first for the iPhone series. It’s still uncertain whether this feature will be present on both the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max or if it will solely belong to the Pro Max model.

### Variable Aperture Lenses

Variable aperture lenses enable improved control over depth of field (DoF) in photography. This capability allows for different effects: a shallow DoF for subject isolation, a moderate DoF for some background context, and a deep DoF for ensuring everything remains in focus. Currently, iPhone models utilize portrait mode for simulating a shallow DoF and the telephoto lens for certain optical effects; however, a variable aperture lens would lend greater versatility across a range of shooting situations. Furthermore, reducing the aperture could assist filmmakers working in bright environments, allowing them to achieve cinematic effects.

### Latest Leak from Digital Chat Station

Ming-Chi Kuo was the first to disclose the addition of this feature in the iPhone 18, a statement backed by a recent supply chain report. The leaker Digital Chat Station (DCS) has confirmed these insights, indicating that the iPhone 18 series will elevate the Pro models, with expectations that the Pro Max will feature variable aperture technology alongside a wider aperture for its 48MP telephoto lens.

### Unclear Whether It’s One Model or Two

Kuo’s initial announcement was somewhat vague, referring to a premium iPhone 18 without clarifying which models would include the new technology. Nonetheless, a recent supply chain report indicates that both the Pro and Pro Max models will encompass the variable aperture feature, with DCS specifically highlighting the Pro Max.

### 9to5Mac’s Take

While the arrival of a variable aperture lens is encouraging, it is crucial to manage expectations. Current iPhone cameras already possess wide apertures, but the small sensor size limits DoF control in comparison to traditional DSLRs. The main benefit of a variable aperture lens may be in its capacity to narrow the aperture for increased focus throughout a scene, especially in landscape photography.

This advancement could also indicate future improvements, such as larger sensor sizes in coming iPhone models. Even though a variable aperture lens introduces complexity and expense, it may demonstrate Apple’s dedication to enhancing photographic capabilities. The Pro Max model, with more room for a bigger sensor, is expected to be the first to exhibit this technology.

In summary, the possible advent of variable aperture lenses in the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max signifies a major advancement in mobile photography, offering users greater creative control and enhanced image quality.

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X Reveals Retirement of Twitter.com Domain; Action Needed by November 10

The social networking site previously known as Twitter has revealed the discontinuation of the twitter.com domain, triggering major adjustments for its users. As part of this evolution, the platform mandates that users who use hardware security keys or passkeys for two-factor authentication (2FA) must re-enroll their devices within a two-week period. If this is not done, the keys will stop functioning.

Initially, X’s Safety account conveyed the necessity for re-enrollment without offering detailed explanations. However, the company subsequently clarified that this requirement is not a result of any security breach but rather a technical enhancement related to the domain transition. Security keys currently linked to the twitter.com domain need to be re-enrolled to associate them with the new x.com domain.

The re-enrollment deadline is established for November 10. Users who fail to comply will find their accounts locked until they either re-enroll their security key, choose an alternative 2FA method, or decide to opt out of 2FA entirely—although the latter option is not advised for safeguarding accounts.

The announcement has ignited speculation concerning possible security weaknesses, prompting the company to reassure users that the alteration is purely technical. The automatic substitution of twitter.com with x.com in tweets has also caused confusion, resulting in nonsensical content from even official accounts.

As the transition unfolds, users are encouraged to act swiftly to keep their accounts secure and accessible. The ramifications of retiring such a widely recognized domain are considerable, and while the company claims that comprehensive testing will minimize issues, the change is expected to disturb various functionalities throughout the platform.

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T-Mobile to Remove AutoPay Discount for Transactions via Apple Pay and Credit Cards

**T-Mobile’s AutoPay Discount Modifications: Essential Information**

Two years back, T-Mobile attracted attention by eliminating its AutoPay discount for customers using credit card payments and Apple Pay. The reason for this choice was mainly financial, as the company pointed out increased processing fees tied to credit card transactions. Consequently, T-Mobile limited AutoPay discounts solely to debit and bank payments.

Recently, T-Mobile has implemented additional measures to strengthen its payment policies by abolishing a workaround that numerous customers had relied on to keep their AutoPay discount while still using credit cards or Apple Pay. This workaround entailed manually settling the T-Mobile statement balance before the AutoPay date with a credit card or Apple Pay, while having AutoPay configured with a debit card or bank payment method. As long as customers remembered to execute this manual pre-payment, the AutoPay payment method would not incur charges, enabling them to enjoy the discount.

Nevertheless, as reported by The Mobile Report, this workaround was officially terminated on October 24. Customers attempting to make an early payment with an ineligible payment method, such as a credit card, will now lose their monthly AutoPay discount. This discount usually amounts to approximately $5 per month for each line, resulting in a considerable loss for many users.

The dissatisfaction regarding this adjustment is exacerbated by the fact that several credit cards offer noteworthy benefits, including phone insurance, as long as the cardholder pays their phone bill with that credit card. Moreover, some credit cards provide statement credits for cell phone bills and offer protection against unauthorized transactions. Conversely, debit and bank transfer payments do not afford the same degree of security and benefits.

While T-Mobile’s decision is in line with practices observed among various other U.S. carriers, it signifies a departure from the company’s earlier image as the “Uncarrier,” recognized for its customer-centric policies. This shift may affect customer loyalty and satisfaction as users evaluate their options in a competitive telecommunications landscape.

In conclusion, T-Mobile’s recent alterations to its AutoPay discount policies underscore the ongoing conflict between customer convenience and corporate cost control. Customers will need to adjust to these changes and thoughtfully consider their payment methods to optimize their savings and benefits.

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iPad Pro M6 Version to Incorporate Vapor Chamber Cooling Technology

### Vapor Chamber Cooling in the New M6 iPad Pro

The forthcoming iteration of the iPad Pro is set to incorporate a major enhancement with the addition of vapor chamber cooling technology. This upgrade is intended to sustain high performance while ensuring the device remains fanless and ultra-slim. As reported by Bloomberg’s Power On newsletter, this development is likely to feature in the M6 iPad Pro, expected to be announced around spring 2027.

#### Overview of Cooling Solutions in Apple Gadgets

Apple has been steadily advancing the cooling mechanisms in its gadgets. The M4 iPad Pro, launched last year, was equipped with a copper heatsink that effectively dispersed heat via the Apple logo on the back of the device. Nevertheless, as performance requirements grow, Apple aims to adopt vapor chamber technology to optimize thermal management further.

The vapor chamber cooling system was first unveiled in the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. This system efficiently alleviates overheating during standard use, especially during demanding activities like gaming. The success of this technology in smartphones has inspired Apple to explore its use within the iPad Pro series.

#### The Necessity for Enhanced Thermal Management

In spite of the improvements in cooling technology, some users of the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M5 chip have experienced thermal throttling issues, which can impair performance. As devices grow more powerful, the necessity for effective cooling solutions becomes increasingly important. The vapor chamber is engineered to tackle these issues by facilitating exceptional heat dissipation.

#### Prospective Developments

Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has noted that Apple is diligently working to integrate vapor chamber technology into the iPad Pro. The company adheres to an 18-month refresh cycle for its iPad Pro variants, implying that the M6 iPad Pro could launch with this feature in early 2027. While this enhancement is not on the immediate horizon, it demonstrates a strategic vision for performance and user experience.

#### Conclusion

The inclusion of vapor chamber cooling in the M6 iPad Pro signifies a crucial advancement in Apple’s dedication to enhancing device performance while preserving sleek aesthetics. For users who are concerned about thermal management, waiting for the early 2027 model may prove worthwhile. As Apple continues to innovate, the possibility of implementing vapor chamber technology in other product lines, like the MacBook Air, remains an intriguing prospect for the future.

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Apple Anticipated to Introduce Search Ads in Apple Maps Next Year, Based on Report

Apple is said to be gearing up to launch advertising within Apple Maps by 2026, as noted in the Power On newsletter by Mark Gurman. This move is part of a wider strategy to bolster advertising across iOS platforms.

The internal advertising endeavor is reportedly gaining traction, with Apple preparing to enable businesses to pay for enhanced visibility in Apple Maps search results. This advertising approach is anticipated to mirror the current system on the App Store, where developers can bid on keywords to elevate their app’s visibility. However, unlike the App Store, there are no plans at this time to feature ads on the main page of Apple Maps.

To guarantee the relevance and utility of the ads, Apple plans to leverage artificial intelligence, striving to provide a better user experience compared to competitors like Google Maps.

Despite the potential advantages, there are worries about possible consumer backlash. Many users are already frustrated with what they perceive as the commercialization of the iPhone, which has been labeled a “digital billboard” for various Apple services. The addition of ads in Apple Maps might intensify these feelings, especially considering the high price of iPhones, which can go up to $2,000.

As Apple prepares to unveil this feature, it is expected that ads in Apple Maps could make their debut in the spring of 2026, potentially coinciding with the launch of iOS 26.4 or 26.5. The precise timeline is still unclear, but this move indicates a considerable change in how Apple approaches advertising within its ecosystem.

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Limited-Time Apple Card Offer: Receive $75 in Daily Cash

### Apple Card Exclusive Edition Promotion: Receive $75 in Bonus Daily Cash

Apple has unveiled a limited-time opportunity for new customers eager to enroll in the Apple Card. This offer stands out as the Apple Card usually does not include sign-up bonuses, rendering this promotion especially enticing.

#### Promotion Information

Until November 17th, new Apple Card holders can acquire **$75 in Bonus Daily Cash** after spending **$75** within the initial 30 days of account activation. This effectively allows users to reclaim their first $75 spent as cash rewards.

#### Historical Perspective

Traditionally, Apple has rarely offered public sign-up bonuses for the Apple Card. Nevertheless, in 2025, the company introduced several covert promotions, often uncovered via targeted emails or social media ads. While this current deal may not be the most lucrative seen previously, it remains an appealing incentive for those contemplating the Apple Card.

#### Cash Back Benefits

The Apple Card is structured to provide rewards with cash back on purchases:
– **3% cash back** on transactions made at Apple and select retail partners.
– **2% cash back** on all purchases conducted via Apple Pay.
– **1% cash back** on transactions made with the physical titanium card.

Some of the featured retail partners include well-known names like Uber/Uber Eats, Walgreens, Nike, and Exxon/Mobil. A detailed list of partners is accessible through various online resources.

#### Future of the Apple Card Collaboration

Recent reports indicate that Goldman Sachs might be stepping away from its collaboration with Apple concerning the Apple Card. Speculation hints that JPMorgan Chase could possibly take over as the next issuer of the Apple Card, signaling a notable change in the card’s management.

#### Final Thoughts

For anyone pondering the Apple Card, this limited-time offer introduces a wonderful chance to earn cash back right from the beginning. With the added advantages of cash back rewards on purchases, it’s a persuasive choice for both Apple enthusiasts and everyday users.

For further information on the offer, you can check the official Apple Card page

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