Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Google Keep Application for Apple Watch No Longer Supported

**Google Keep Removed from Apple Watch: A Summary**

In a recent announcement, Google has disclosed the discontinuation of the Google Keep application for Apple Watch, effective from version 2.2025.26200. This move coincides with the introduction of a new Google Calendar app for watchOS, indicating a significant transformation in Google’s strategy for its applications on Apple’s smartwatch platform.

### The Conclusion of Google Keep on Apple Watch

Google Keep, launched for Apple Watch in 2019, has not undergone any significant updates in recent years. The application was devoid of vital features such as complications and compatibility with the latest watchOS capabilities, which hindered its functionality for many users. Despite its limitations, it offered a handy method for users to access their notes directly from their wrist, proving especially beneficial for tasks like shopping or urgent reminders.

The app’s removal may disrupt the routines of users who depended on it for swift note-taking or reminders while out and about. With watchOS 26 set to launch a native Notes app this fall, users may discover an alternative within Apple’s ecosystem, but the elimination of Google Keep represents a notable loss for those who favored Google’s offerings.

### Ongoing Support for Google Keep on Other Devices

Though Google Keep is no longer available on Apple Watch, it remains functional on Wear OS devices. This suggests that Google is dedicated to maintaining its services on its own smartwatch platform, even while withdrawing support from Apple devices. The recent launch of the Google Calendar app for watchOS implies that Google is concentrating on enhancing its more favored applications, rather than sustaining lesser-used ones like Keep.

### Other Google Applications on watchOS

Alongside the changes concerning Google Keep, various other Google applications on watchOS have also experienced limited updates. YouTube Music continues to function mainly as a remote control for the mobile app without offline download options, and Google Maps provides basic features without the advanced functionalities present on Wear OS. This inconsistency underlines a wider trend in which Google favors its own platforms over Apple’s, potentially resulting in a less cohesive experience for Apple users.

### Final Thoughts

The removal of Google Keep from Apple Watch marks a shift in Google’s approach to its applications on Apple’s platform. While users may experience the effects of this change, particularly in situations needing quick access to notes, the introduction of Apple’s Notes app in watchOS 26 may offer a viable substitute. As Google progresses with its offerings, users will have to adjust to the evolving landscape of app availability and functionality across various devices.

Read More
Apple Performs Survey of Vision Pro Users About Meta’s Ray-Ban Items

Apple is conducting a survey among Vision Pro users, with some inquiries extending beyond the device’s comfort and resolution. Alongside features like Guest Mode and the actual usage of accessories, Apple is eager to learn what its users think about competing products, even in categories where it has not yet entered the market.

### Apple is already assessing strategies to enter the smart glasses arena

As reported by MacRumors, Apple is querying Vision Pro owners on whether they possess devices such as the Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, PlayStation VR, Valve Index, and ByteDance’s Pico, all of which compete within the same broad category to some degree.

However, Apple’s questioning does not end there; reportedly, it is also probing users regarding smart glasses, including Meta Ray-Bans, Amazon Echo Frames, and Snapchat Spectacles. While these items are not direct rivals to the Vision Pro, they might eventually find themselves competing against Apple’s own smart glasses, anticipated to debut in 2027.

Notably, it seems that not all Vision Pro users are experiencing the same version of the survey. As user jimmypopjr posted on Reddit:

> “huh, I received an AVP survey today, but there was no reference to other Vision products. It focused on how I would enhance the current version.”

### Product surveys are typical, but this one stood out

Apple frequently conducts product surveys, including one that was distributed to Vision Pro users as recently as last October, concentrating on satisfaction and general usability.

That session featured questions such as:
– How often do you utilize your Apple Vision Pro while connected to a power source?
– What has been your favorite feature or aspect of Apple Vision Pro up to now?
– What single element, if any, would you like to add to or alter about Apple Vision Pro?

Nevertheless, the timing of this latest survey is difficult to overlook.

Just yesterday, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo detailed Apple’s headset roadmap, which highlights a spec-enhanced Vision Pro with an M5 chip arriving in 2025, lightweight smart glasses and a more budget-friendly Vision model in 2027, along with a second-generation Vision Pro by 2028.

Kuo further mentions two additional XR products and a display accessory device, although development of the latter is currently paused.

Do you own any of Apple’s competitor devices? What has your experience been like? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Headset promotions on Amazon

FTC: We employ income-generating auto affiliate links. More.

Read More
Wispr Flow: AI Transcription Straight from Your iPhone Keyboard

# Wispr Flow: An Innovative Dictation Keyboard

This article delves into the groundbreaking features and capabilities of Wispr Flow, a dictation keyboard that employs sophisticated Speech-to-Text AI technology. The experience of utilizing this tool, including its advantages and possible limitations, is thoroughly analyzed.

## Overview of Wispr Flow

Wispr Flow is a dictation keyboard crafted to improve the transcription experience by harnessing AI technology. The application enables users to dictate text effortlessly, capturing spoken words and translating them into written format without any manual typing. This article serves as a demonstration of its functionality, as the content was entirely dictated using Wispr Flow.

## Functionality

Wispr Flow functions through what the developers term “Flow Sessions.” Users can set these sessions to grant the app permission to access the microphone for specified time frames, from 5 minutes to 1 hour, or without time constraints.

To commence a Flow Session, users simply press the “Start Flow” button on the keyboard, redirecting them to the Wispr Flow app. Once initiated, users can begin dictating by pressing the microphone button. After finishing their dictation, they can conclude the session by pressing the check mark button or manually stop it using the menu button.

### Application Features

Within the Wispr Flow application, users can take advantage of several beneficial features:

– **Dictation History**: Users can review their entire dictation history for quick access.
– **Quick Notes**: A feature designed for recording quick thoughts or reminders.
– **Custom Dictionary**: Users can develop a custom dictionary to assist the app in recognizing particular words or phrases that are commonly used.

Furthermore, users can select their preferred languages, enabling multilingual dictation functionality.

## Privacy Issues

Privacy concerns are prevalent with AI applications. Wispr Flow tackles these issues by employing a mix of Meta’s Llama and OpenAI’s Whisper models. The company maintains a strict zero data retention policy, guaranteeing that personal typing data is neither stored nor shared with third parties unless users opt in.

The developers are also investigating new APIs to improve the app’s capabilities, with the possibility of integrating features such as shortcuts and action buttons in future updates.

## Efficiency and Accessibility

Wispr Flow has shown remarkable accuracy in converting spoken words into text. This positions it as an exceptional tool for individuals who depend on voice notes or need accessibility features. The app is compatible with MacOS and Windows, with future plans to extend compatibility to Android, Linux, and web platforms.

The app provides a free plan that permits up to 2000 words weekly, alongside Pro and Teams plans offering discounts for annual subscriptions. Custom enterprise plans are also on offer, accommodating different user requirements.

## Summary

Wispr Flow emerges as a notable dictation tool that merges AI technology with user-friendly features. Its capacity to produce precise transcriptions while emphasizing user privacy makes it a significant resource for individuals seeking to enhance their writing process. Whether for personal or professional use, Wispr Flow has the potential to revolutionize our interaction with text input. For more information, users can visit the

Read More
9to5Mac Daily: June 30, 2025 – Anticipated Features in iOS 26 and MacBook Speculations

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving realm of technology, staying informed about the latest developments is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily acts as a dependable source for daily summaries of key stories associated with Apple and its environment. This podcast is tailored for those keen on staying connected to Apple news, product unveilings, software revisions, and industry perspectives.

### Podcast Access

9to5Mac Daily is available on multiple platforms, allowing listeners to engage from their chosen podcast application. You can locate it on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts application](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
– [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
– [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
– [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
– [RSS feed for Overcast and other players](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily)

### Daily Broadcasts

New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are produced every weekday, offering listeners timely news and discussions on the most recent events in the Apple universe. Subscribing guarantees that you receive new episodes instantly, ensuring you remain updated without any lag.

### Highlighted Topics

Each episode delves into a variety of subjects, including:

– Recent product unveilings
– Software updates and functionalities
– Insights into Apple’s corporate strategies
– Market trends and competitor assessments

Listeners can anticipate a blend of news, analysis, and commentary that appeals to both casual listeners and ardent Apple supporters.

### Support and Subscription

For those interested in supporting the podcast, 9to5Mac Daily provides a subscription plan known as 9to5Mac Daily Plus. Subscribers enjoy:

– Ad-free versions of each episode
– Exclusive content that explores particular topics in greater detail

### Engaging with the Audience

Listeners are invited to express their opinions and feedback. You can connect via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or rate the podcast on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and

Read More
Microsoft Authenticator to Cease Password Autofill Functionality in July

**Microsoft Authenticator Retiring Password Autofill: Important Information You Should Have**

A quick alert for those utilizing Microsoft Authenticator as a password manager: the app is discontinuing support for password autofill, and all stored passwords will be erased by August. Here’s what you need to know.

These adjustments are part of Microsoft’s strategy to streamline its credential management tools under the Edge browser. Moving forward, password autofill will exclusively be accessible through Edge, not Authenticator.

### What’s Changing, and When

– **Beginning June 2025**: You will be unable to **Add** or **Import** new passwords in the Authenticator App. However, you can keep saving passwords via autofill until July.

– **Throughout July 2025**: Autofill will no longer function with Authenticator.

– **Starting August 2025**: Your saved passwords will be inaccessible in Authenticator.

Microsoft indicates that passwords and addresses already stored within the app will automatically sync to your Microsoft account and will be available through Edge. Nevertheless, if you don’t intend to use Edge, you must export your passwords to another service prior to August 1.

### How to Maintain Access to Your Passwords

If you plan to remain within Microsoft’s ecosystem, after downloading Edge and designating it as your default autofill provider, simply sign in with your Microsoft account to synchronize your credentials. You can retrieve them via Settings > Passwords in the Edge application.

If you are shifting to another service such as iCloud Keychain or Bitwarden, follow these steps:

1.

Read More
All that We Understand About Season 2 of Your Friends & Neighbors

Apple TV+ has experienced an impressive year, with “Severance” playing a crucial role in its achievements alongside multiple other successful series. A highlight is Jon Hamm’s “Your Friends & Neighbors,” which has emerged as Apple’s most-watched new drama, prompting the announcement of a second season.

### Season 2 was approved before Your Friends & Neighbors even debuted

In a distinct move for Apple, “Your Friends & Neighbors” was granted a second season before its inaugural season aired. This choice, made in November 2024—six months ahead of the show’s launch—reflected Apple’s belief in the series, which has been proven justified.

### What’s ahead for Jon Hamm’s ‘Coop’ and more

Jonathan Tropper, the mastermind behind “Your Friends & Neighbors,” has shared details about the future of Jon Hamm’s character, Coop, and the ensemble cast. In a discussion with *Variety*, Tropper stressed that Coop will not take on the role of a conventional criminal genius, declaring, “Coop is never gonna become a criminal kingpin.” Instead, the focus will be on Coop’s personal battles and his journey for self-discovery.

Tropper also teased significant changes for two major female characters, Sam and Mel. He mentioned that Season 2 will offer a more profound exploration of Sam’s character, presenting her with fresh challenges and a path of self-reinvention in the face of public judgment. At the same time, Mel’s narrative will explore her unresolved fury and the emotional reckoning she faces.

### Season 2 to utilize the ‘Empire Strikes Back’ approach

Tropper has compared his strategy for the second season to that of “The Empire Strikes Back,” indicating that the stakes will elevate, and the story will grow darker and more intricate. This thematic transition aims to enhance the audience’s connection with the characters and their arcs.

### When to anticipate Your Friends & Neighbors season 2 on Apple TV+

The first season of “Your Friends & Neighbors” wrapped up in late May 2025, with filming for Season 2 beginning while the first season was still airing. Considering the early renewal and prompt commencement of production, fans can expect the second season to debut in spring 2026, resulting in a relatively brief wait of about a year between seasons.

Apple TV+ is priced at $9.99 per month and offers a selection of award-winning shows and films, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” “The Morning Show,” “Silo,” and “Shrinking.”

Read More
Apple’s Effort to Reject DOJ Antitrust Lawsuit Concerning iPhone Market Supremacy Fails

**Apple’s Antitrust Case: A Synopsis of Recent Updates**

Apple’s persistent legal confrontation with the U.S. government regarding antitrust claims has taken a notable turn. The corporation recently encountered a hurdle when U.S. District Judge Julien Neals dismissed its request to quash a lawsuit initiated by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in March 2024. This lawsuit alleges that Apple maintains an unlawful monopoly within the U.S. smartphone sector, especially through restrictive measures that inhibit competition.

### Case Background

The DOJ, along with 16 state attorneys general and Washington, D.C., launched the lawsuit to contest Apple’s activities that purportedly restrict third-party applications, services, and accessories. The essence of the case is that Apple has developed an ecosystem that complicates users’ ability to transition to rival platforms and hampers competitors’ effectiveness. The lawsuit raises issues in domains like messaging, smartwatches, digital wallets, and cloud services, which directly challenge Apple’s iPhone functionalities.

In its initial submission, the DOJ declared, “For many years, Apple has constructed a prevailing iPhone platform and ecosystem that has propelled the company’s immense valuation.” The lawsuit contends that rather than addressing competitive challenges with better pricing or enhanced developer monetization, Apple has established a succession of evolving regulations and restrictions that ultimately favor its profits at the cost of innovation and user experience.

### Apple’s Response

In light of the accusations, Apple has defended its policies by asserting that its developer guidelines primarily aim to ensure user safety and uphold platform integrity. The company argues that relaxing these restrictions could hinder innovation throughout the technology sector. Nonetheless, Judge Neals deemed these defenses inadequate to dismiss the case, permitting it to advance to additional litigation.

### Wider Context

This lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of heightened examination of Big Tech firms in the United States. Other technology behemoths, such as Meta and Google, are also confronting substantial legal obstacles. Meta is anticipating a decision that could compel it to divest its acquisitions of WhatsApp and Instagram, while Google finds itself embroiled in various antitrust actions regarding its supremacy in search and advertising.

### Apple’s Remarks

In the wake of the court’s ruling, Apple released a statement articulating its disagreement with the lawsuit. An Apple representative stated, “We believe this lawsuit is incorrect in both fact and law, and we will persistently contest it in court.” This statement highlights Apple’s resolve to uphold its business practices as the case advances.

### Conclusion

As the antitrust case unfolds, it is set to evolve into a protracted legal skirmish that could have substantial ramifications for Apple’s business framework and the overarching tech sector. The result may redefine how major technology firms conduct themselves and engage with rivals, developers, and consumers moving forward.

Read More
iPhone 17 Pro Max versus Pro: Main Distinctions in Apple’s Model Segmentation

Apple’s iPhone 17 series is set to be revealed in early September, a little over two months away. Each year, a frequent question among shoppers pertains to the Pro models: what distinguishes them from each other? Here’s how Apple intends to highlight the differences between the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone 17 Pro this time around.

## Expectations from iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Pro

Occasionally, Apple sets apart its Pro models by introducing a unique camera feature. The Pro Max version sometimes receives a new camera function a year or more before its smaller counterpart. For instance, the iPhone 15 Pro Max had a 5x telephoto zoom, whereas the smaller Pro variant only had 3x until Apple updated it the following year with the iPhone 16 Pro.

As of now, there are no leaks suggesting an exclusive camera feature for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Initial speculations about a reduced Dynamic Island on the Pro Max seem to be less reliable. However, a major modification is on the horizon that will give the Pro Max a significant advantage in one crucial aspect: battery longevity.

## iPhone 17 Pro Max will enhance its dominance in providing superior battery life

In a distinctive move, this year the iPhone 17 Pro Max is alleged to become thicker to accommodate additional battery capacity. Leaked product measurements have validated this increase in thickness, which has been showcased in hands-on videos.

Here’s the comparison from year to year:
– **iPhone 16 Pro Max**: 8.25mm thickness
– **iPhone 17 Pro Max**: 8.725mm thickness

Conversely, the iPhone 17 Pro will maintain its current size. Aside from a larger camera ‘island’ layout on the rear, the updated Pro model will mirror the basic dimensions of last year’s iPhone 16 Pro. This means the Pro Max’s battery life lead—which was already considerable—is set to expand further.

Here are the latest Apple benchmarks:
– **iPhone 16 Pro Max**
– Up to **33 hours** of video playback
– Up to **29 hours** of streamed video playback
– Up to **105 hours** of audio playback

– **iPhone 16 Pro**
– Up to **27 hours** of video playback
– Up to **22 hours** of streamed video playback
– Up to **85 hours** of audio playback

Anticipate the iPhone 17 Pro Max to showcase even higher battery life estimates than any iPhone has achieved before. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro is likely to deliver roughly the same runtime as its predecessor. On a positive note, the iPhone 17 Pro should maintain significantly better battery performance than what is available in the sleek new iPhone 17 Air.

Will the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s battery advantage over the 17 Pro impact your choice? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top iPhone accessories

Read More
Proton Mail Developer Initiates Antitrust Lawsuit Against Apple Regarding App Store Practices in the United States.

**Proton Files Lawsuit Against Apple Regarding App Store Practices: A Class Action for Developers**

Swiss technology firm Proton, which focuses on privacy and is famous for its encrypted email service Proton Mail, has launched a lawsuit against Apple in the United States, representing “millions” of developers from around the world. The class action, initiated in California, accuses Apple of limiting competition and extracting excessive profits from app developers through exclusionary methods.

The lawsuit filed by Proton contends that Apple’s dominance over app distribution and payment processing on iOS creates a “stranglehold” that restricts opportunities and innovation for developers. The complaint emphasizes that Apple’s market power fosters an environment that stifles competition and robs consumers of choices in privacy-respecting technologies.

### Key Areas of Focus in the Case

The lawsuit concentrates on two significant markets: iOS app distribution and the processing of in-app payments on iOS. Proton asserts that Apple’s rules, such as the obligatory use of its in-app purchase system, the ban on alternative app stores, and commission rates that can reach 30%, are in violation of U.S. antitrust laws.

Proton aims to force Apple to allow alternative app stores and payment processors on iOS, as well as seek monetary compensation for the financial hardships that developers have faced due to Apple’s purported monopolistic conduct. The goal of the lawsuit is to rejuvenate competition within the app distribution and payment processing sectors, enabling developers to innovate and thrive without exorbitant fees.

### Background of the Lawsuit

This legal move comes on the heels of Apple’s recent announcements regarding significant changes to its App Store policies in the European Union, which incorporate support for various external links and third-party payment systems. However, these modifications do not apply to the U.S. App Store, and Apple has voiced dissatisfaction with the European Commission’s requirements, signaling intentions to appeal the decision.

The lawsuit is officially designated as Proton AG v. Apple Inc., No. 4:25-cv-05450. Proton’s legal action signifies the increasing apprehension among developers about the power imbalance in app marketplaces and the necessity for more equitable practices.

As the legal cases progress, the ramifications of this lawsuit could significantly impact how apps are distributed and monetized on iOS, potentially transforming the environment for both developers and consumers.

Read More
Apple Contemplates Delegating AI Development for Siri Overhaul to OpenAI or Anthropic

Apple is presently in talks with Anthropic and OpenAI to potentially boost Siri’s capabilities by integrating advanced large language models (LLMs). This development could signify a notable change in Apple’s strategy towards artificial intelligence, as the firm contemplates setting aside its proprietary AI models.

As per a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has asked both OpenAI and Anthropic to create tailored versions of their LLMs that would run on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute infrastructure. This strategy is intended to minimize dependence on outside cloud services like AWS or Azure, enabling Apple to have enhanced control over user privacy by leveraging its own servers powered by Apple silicon.

### Ongoing Negotiations

The initiative to overhaul Siri is led by Apple executives Mike Rockwell and Craig Federighi, following a decline in trust in prior leadership. While a comprehensive roadmap for a fully Apple-driven LLM Siri by 2026 is still in place, testing has suggested that Anthropic’s technology might currently align better with Siri’s needs than Apple’s existing models. Corporate development VP Adrian Perica is overseeing negotiations with Anthropic.

Despite the consideration of third-party models, no definitive decision has been finalized. Within the company, Apple continues to advance its competing initiative, known as LLM Siri, which employs in-house models.

### Financial Considerations and Internal Morale

Reports indicate that negotiations between Apple and Anthropic have faced hurdles, particularly concerning financial conditions. Anthropic is pursuing a multibillion-dollar annual fee that rises substantially each year, which has led Apple to explore alternatives, including OpenAI, if a consensus cannot be achieved.

Moreover, the potential shift towards external models has influenced morale within Apple’s Foundation Models team. Some team members believe they are being held accountable for the company’s gradual advancements in generative AI, leading to exits from the team. Compensation concerns have surfaced, with rivals like Meta and OpenAI offering significantly higher salary packages, at times reaching $40 million per year. This pay gap has compelled Apple to issue counteroffers to keep crucial talent.

In conclusion, Apple’s discussions with Anthropic and OpenAI represent a key moment for Siri’s future, as the company weighs the advantages of external AI models against its internal development pursuits. The results of these talks will likely influence the course of Apple’s AI strategy in the near future.

Read More