Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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

Read More
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?

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
iOS 26 Launches Icon Tinting for Light Mode and Improved Customization Features for iPhone Home Screen Icons

# iOS 26: An In-Depth Examination of the Latest Home Screen Personalization Features

The iPhone home screen has experienced a remarkable change with the launch of iOS 26, unveiling a visually stunning redesign that features a new collection of icons for all of Apple’s applications, enhanced by glass and reflection effects. This upgrade not only improves appearances but also provides users with unmatched personalization choices for their app icons.

## Improved Icon Personalization

In the past, users had limited options for icon personalization, including Default, Dark, Automatic, or Tinted styles. The Tinted mode offered a gradient highlight against a dark background, but with iOS 26, Apple has broadened these options extensively, unveiling new modes and controls that facilitate greater customization of icon designs.

### Fresh Tinted Light Mode Feature

One of the key highlights of iOS 26 is the launch of the Light Tinted style. This fresh option presents a bright and spacious aesthetic, enabling users to perceive elements of their wallpaper through the icons, enhancing the entire visual experience. To enable this mode, users can long-press on the Home Screen, select Edit, then Customize, and finally opt for Tinted with the Light option from the selector at the bottom of the screen. Users can also choose Dark or Auto modes, where Auto aligns the icon theme with the device’s system appearance.

### Transparent Mode

Alongside the new Tinted options, iOS 26 unveils an entirely new icon mode termed Clear. This mode employs Apple’s Liquid Glass UI theme to generate highly transparent icons that emphasize the visibility of the wallpaper behind them. Clear icons are mainly monochromatic, allowing the backdrop to be prominent. Users can select between Clear Light and Clear Dark modes, with the former offering a livelier appearance and the latter providing a nearly black layer for contrast. An Auto option is also present, alternating between Light and Dark depending on the system appearance.

### Dynamic Dark Mode

For users who enjoy the standard Dark mode, iOS 26 refines this experience with the choice between “Always” or “Auto” settings. The Always option guarantees that icons are permanently displayed in dark style, while Auto permits dynamic changes in line with the device’s system appearance. This new toggle supersedes the former Automatic mode, ensuring a fluid experience that integrates icon themes with the overall device aesthetic.

## Harmonization Across Devices

A significant introduction in iOS 26 is the accessibility of all new icon tinting options on the Mac for the first time. This feature allows users to personalize app icons in their Mac dock, ensuring a consistent appearance across iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices. This harmonization enhances user experience by delivering a uniform visual style across all Apple gadgets.

## Conclusion

With iOS 26, Apple has greatly improved the customization options for the iPhone home screen, presenting new icon styles and modes that cater to a diverse array of user tastes. The introduction of Light Tinted and Clear modes, along with enhanced Dark mode options, empowers users to craft a personalized and aesthetically pleasing home screen experience. Moreover, the synchronization of these features across Apple devices guarantees a cohesive look and feel, reinforcing Apple’s dedication to user-focused design.

Read More
Apple Unveils iPadOS 26 Beta Showcasing Improved Windowing and Liquid Glass Aesthetics

### iPadOS 26 Beta 1 Now Released with Major Improvements

iPadOS 26 marks the forthcoming significant upgrade to iPad software, bringing a range of robust modifications aimed at boosting productivity and multitasking functions. Unveiled during the WWDC 2025 keynote, Apple has rolled out the initial beta version of iPadOS 26 for developers, enabling them to delve into the new features prior to the public launch.

#### Key Features and Upgrades

iPadOS 26 aims to deliver a more adaptable and capable iPad experience. While it does not completely include macOS functionalities, it brings noteworthy enhancements that improve the iPad’s usability. Users can anticipate a revamped design alongside an array of new features that enhance the overall device experience.

#### Access and Installation

Developers can obtain iPadOS 26 beta 1 via Settings > General > Software Update. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that early beta releases frequently have bugs and performance concerns. Therefore, it is recommended for developers to install the beta on secondary devices instead of their main ones to prevent possible interruptions.

The official release of iPadOS 26 for all users is projected for this fall, with a public beta accessible during the summer. While these later releases may still have some bugs, they typically offer greater stability compared to the initial developer beta.

#### User Input

As developers start evaluating iPadOS 26 beta 1, feedback on its performance and features is welcomed. Users are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments section, aiding in a wider comprehension of the new software’s potential.

For those excited to discover the latest innovations in iPadOS, now is the perfect opportunity to dive in and experience the new design and features up close.

For ongoing updates from WWDC 2025, check out the dedicated news hub for the most recent information on iPadOS and other announcements.

Read More
tvOS 26 Beta 1 Launched for Apple TV 4K

Apple has just rolled out tvOS 26 developer beta 1, offering initial access to the latest Apple TV functionalities revealed at WWDC earlier today.

## New tvOS 26 software update debuts in developer beta

Earlier today, Apple announced its significant new software updates set to arrive on all its platforms. Among these was tvOS 26, the newest update for Apple TV hardware. Users can now explore at least some of the new features through the freshly released developer beta 1.

As with all of Apple’s major software announcements today, it’s probable that certain features are missing from this initial beta. Subsequent beta versions following WWDC typically include numerous changes and extra functionalities. Apple may also hold back some of tvOS 26’s new features for later software updates, such as the anticipated tvOS 26.1 and 26.2.

For the time being, this initial preview of tvOS 26 can be downloaded via the Software Update screen on your Apple TV device. All beta software carries a chance of performance issues due to bugs, particularly true for the first beta of a significant new update. Therefore, if you’re installing the tvOS 26 beta, your Apple TV 4K might show a range of issues because of the software’s early state.

For all the latest updates from WWDC, visit our dedicated WWDC 2025 news hub.

Have you installed the tvOS 26 beta? How is it performing for you? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Best Apple TV 4K accessories

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

Read More