Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple Watch Series 11 Set to Launch Three New Features Next Month

A fresh lineup of Apple Watch models is set to debut soon. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 will undoubtedly capture significant attention, but the new Apple Watch Series 11 is also on the horizon—here are the speculated new features.

## #1: Enhanced S11 SiP

While the iPhone incorporates A-class chips like A18 and Macs and iPads frequently use M-class chips such as M4, the Apple Watch utilizes an S-class SiP (“System in Package”). Last year, the Apple Watch Series 10 introduced a new S10 SiP. Although Apple doesn’t consistently present new SiPs every year, recent leaks have suggested that S11 is definitely arriving this year. The S11 SiP in the Apple Watch Series 11 should bring performance enhancements that are particularly important for new AI functionalities arriving with watchOS 26. It may also allow for new exclusive features, as SiP upgrades sometimes can.

## #2: High Blood Pressure Monitoring

Health and fitness are vital reasons many individuals opt for an Apple Watch. This year, a significant new health feature is anticipated. High blood pressure monitoring is reportedly coming with the Apple Watch Series 11. This feature will utilize new sensors included in the Watch, alerting users to possible hypertension. Mark Gurman clarifies:

>The blood-pressure functionality…is intended to operate similarly to Apple’s sleep apnea monitor. While it won’t provide users with specific measurements—like diastolic or systolic readings—it will notify them that they might be experiencing hypertension.

Hypertension monitoring could greatly influence how users are informed about a crucial medical condition. This aligns well with many existing health features of the Apple Watch.

## #3: 5G Cellular Capability

Longtime fans of Apple may recall that when 5G was introduced to the iPhone in 2020, Apple made a considerable fuss about it. Five years on, the company has deployed 5G on both iPhone and iPad, yet the Apple Watch still only operates on 4G LTE. According to Bloomberg, that is set to change this year. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 will support 5G cellular, and the Apple Watch Series 11 is expected to do the same. 5G will be incorporated through a specialized ‘5G RedCap’ service designed for low power consumption devices like wearables. This change comes as Apple transitions away from Intel for its Apple Watch modem supplier, opting for MediaTek’s cellular modems instead.

## Apple Watch Series 11 Features: Conclusion

In summary, last year’s Series 10 introduced a broader range of enhancements than what we anticipate from the Apple Watch Series 11. The new, larger LTPO3 OLED screen, a slimmer case, quicker charging, and the enhanced speaker were all robust upgrades. Even though features such as screen and case size are expected to remain unchanged, Apple may still introduce an appealing new material finish or a trendy new color. Speculation around features has generally been less pronounced this year. This could indicate either that not many changes are on the way, or Apple has some surprises ready to unveil.

What new features do you wish to see in an Apple Watch Series 11? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Aqua Voice Showcases the Possibilities of Improved Mac Dictation Functions

# The Progression of Dictation: An In-Depth Look at Aqua Voice

Dictation and voice commands have become essential tools for numerous users, especially those who handle smart homes or favor hands-free communication. Apple’s native dictation features have undergone substantial enhancements over the years, yet they still lag behind third-party applications such as Aqua Voice. This article delves into the functionalities of Aqua Voice, its benefits over Apple’s dictation, and its effects on accessibility.

## The Emergence of Dictation

For many, dictation acts as a primary means of interacting with their devices. Users dictate messages across diverse platforms, including iMessage and WhatsApp, establishing it as a favored communication method. While initial versions of dictation and Siri’s understanding were frequently critiqued for their inaccuracies, progress has been achieved. Nonetheless, the divergence between Apple’s offerings and the capabilities of third-party applications is still apparent.

## Aqua Voice: A Revolutionary Tool

Aqua Voice is a software designed for Mac users that significantly enhances dictation functionalities. By remapping the regular function key to launch Aqua Voice, users can enjoy a more streamlined dictation experience. A comparative evaluation of Aqua Voice and standard Mac dictation uncovers notable contrasts in accuracy and performance.

### Accuracy Assessment

In a direct comparison, Aqua Voice yielded just one error, while standard Mac dictation produced seventeen errors when transcribing a segment of Steve Jobs’ commencement speech. This difference underscores Aqua Voice’s superior capability in interpreting natural speech and punctuation, in addition to its skill in formatting text into coherent paragraphs without requiring user input.

## User Engagement

After extensive use, numerous users, including the author, have found Aqua Voice to be exceptionally effective. Dictating nearly 20,000 words in two weeks, the app has demonstrated its reliability for composing articles and messages. Unlike other dictation applications, Aqua Voice needs no extensive training, making it accessible for users who desire immediate outcomes.

### Natural Speech Modification

Aqua Voice shines in voice-based editing, allowing users to rectify and alter their dictated text effortlessly. The app comprehends natural language commands, empowering users to edit sentences without switching modes or employing specific phrases. This feature enhances the overall user experience, making dictation feel more instinctual.

## Standing Instructions and Personalization

One of Aqua Voice’s exceptional features is the option to set standing instructions for dictation. Users can personalize how numbers, punctuation, and formatting are processed, ensuring that the output matches their preferences. This level of personalization is particularly advantageous for those needing specific formatting for professional writing.

## Accessibility Advantages

For individuals with disabilities that hinder typing, Aqua Voice offers substantial benefits. The app’s high accuracy and natural language processing abilities make it a vital tool for boosting productivity and mitigating cognitive load. However, it is worth mentioning that Aqua Voice currently lacks navigation control, which limits its usefulness for certain users.

## Challenges and Considerations

Despite its benefits, Aqua Voice does face some difficulties. Privacy concerns arise from the app’s dependence on server-based transcription, which may dissuade users from dictating sensitive information. Moreover, the subscription model, pricing at $8 per month or $96 per year, may not be practical for casual users who only need dictation sporadically.

## The Future of Dictation

The capabilities exhibited by Aqua Voice prompt inquiries about Apple’s dictation technology. If a smaller developer can attain such precision and functionality, there is a possibility for Apple to significantly improve its own dictation features. By investing in comparable technology, Apple could revolutionize its dictation tools into reliable, user-friendly applications that address a broader audience, including those with accessibility requirements.

## Conclusion

Aqua Voice signifies a substantial leap in dictation technology, providing users with a robust tool for hands-free communication and writing. Its accuracy, simplicity, and customization options render it an attractive choice for anyone aiming to enhance their dictation experience. As the demand for voice recognition technology escalates, it is imperative for major companies like Apple to take notice and innovate in this area.

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iPhone 17 Pro Max Anticipated to Showcase Enhanced Camera Features in Comparison to iPhone 17 Pro

**Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max: Expected Telephoto Camera Edge**

Apple’s eagerly awaited iPhone reveal is mere weeks away, and recent leaks indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro Max might possess a notable edge in its camera system over the iPhone 17 Pro. This distinction is typical, as Apple frequently includes special features in its larger Pro variant.

### Distinct Telephoto Camera Attributes

Traditionally, Apple has altered the specifications across its iPhone Pro series. In earlier models, such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max, users benefited from a 5x optical zoom with the telephoto lens, whereas the iPhone 15 Pro was restricted to a 3x optical zoom. Last year, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models aligned in capabilities, but signs indicate that the iPhone 17 series could once again exhibit a split in functionalities.

A recent disclosure from a Weibo leaker, Instant Digital, suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature a telephoto camera that may be the most sophisticated to date. While concrete details are lacking, the focus on the Pro Max variant hints at potential enhancements absent in the Pro version.

### Possible Enhancements

Rumors suggest that both iPhone 17 Pro models might undergo a significant upgrade to a 48MP telephoto lens, matching the 48MP specifications of the other rear cameras. However, it’s improbable that Apple would limit this improvement solely to the Pro Max. Instead, additional features could distinguish the Pro Max, such as an anticipated 8x optical zoom that might be exclusive to this variant.

### Conclusion

As the iPhone event nears, anticipation grows regarding the potential attributes of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, especially its telephoto camera functionalities. With the prospect of unique enhancements, Apple enthusiasts and photography aficionados are eager to find out how the new models will set themselves apart in camera technology. The forthcoming unveiling will soon clarify these assumptions and showcase the innovations Apple has planned.

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Savings on 24GB M4 MacBook Pro and M4 Max Mac Studio: $300 Off, Along with Discounts on MacBook Air, iPad Air, and Additional Items

### Weekend Apple Offers: Significant Savings on M3 iPad Air, M4 MacBook Pro, and More

As we approach the weekend, a variety of alluring Apple offers have surfaced, providing major savings on sought-after products. This week’s highlights feature unprecedented low prices on the M3 iPad Air collection, M4 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and additional items, creating a prime opportunity for consumers to enhance their devices.

#### M4 MacBook Pro: $300 Discount

For those seeking a new MacBook Pro, the newest M4 series models are presently experiencing considerable price cuts. The most economical choice, the M4 MacBook Pro with 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, is currently priced at **$1,499**, reduced from its typical cost of **$1,799**. This offer is exclusive to the Space Black variant and is provided by B&H, an authorized Apple retailer.

This setup is especially attractive as it delivers a notable increase in RAM without requiring higher storage options, making it a unique discovery in today’s market. Additional configurations of the M4 MacBook Pro are also enjoying similar $300 reductions, such as:

– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/512GB for **$1,299** (Regular $1,599)
– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/1TB for **$1,499** (Regular $1,799)
– 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/512GB for **$1,699** (Regular $1,999)

#### M4 Max Mac Studio: Up to $300 Off

Beyond the MacBook deals, B&H is likewise providing noteworthy discounts on M4 Max Mac Studio configurations. The highlight offer is on the 14-Core/32-Core version with 36GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD, priced at **$2,299**, representing a $300 savings. Other configurations are available with diverse specs and price reductions, making this an excellent opportunity for professionals in need of powerful computing solutions.

#### M3 iPad Air: $150 Discount

The M3 iPad Air series is also enjoying impressive discounts, with prices beginning as low as **$449** for the 11-inch model. Both Amazon and Target are presenting **$150 price reductions** across different colors and storage options, marking the lowest prices we’ve encountered all year. The 13-inch models are now starting at **$649**, rendering these devices more attainable than ever.

#### M4 MacBook Air: Uncommon Discounts

The M4 MacBook Air is likewise encountering an unusual price cut of **$200** on several configurations. Significantly, the 15-inch model with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD is now available for **$1,799**, a configuration that generally costs close to $2,000 when purchased directly from Apple. This offer is particularly appealing for users needing extra memory for multitasking and resource-intensive applications.

### Conclusion

This weekend’s Apple offers provide an outstanding chance for consumers to invest in high-quality technology at lower prices. Whether you’re in the market for a powerful MacBook Pro, a versatile iPad Air, or a robust Mac Studio, the current discounts make it an ideal time to shop. Be sure to verify the specific configurations and availability, as these offers are subject to modification.

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iOS 26 Launches Improved Task Management Capabilities in Reminders App

Apple’s Reminders app is among the many system applications receiving enhancements in iOS 26. Included in the updates for Reminders is a robust new tool designed to help you arrange your tasks.

## Reminders app in iOS 26 can now automatically sort your tasks into categories

In the realm of task management, applications can occasionally overwhelm users with an abundance of features and settings. While having a feature-rich application is beneficial, task managers may falter by demanding excessive time to sort your to-dos, thereby consuming valuable minutes that could otherwise be spent accomplishing tasks.

With iOS 26, Apple’s Reminders app takes a different approach. A new feature is on the horizon that alleviates the burden of organization from your shoulders. In iOS 26, Apple Intelligence is now capable of **automatically categorizing your Reminders lists**.

On all devices equipped with AI capabilities, Reminders introduces a new ‘Auto-Categorize’ option for lists. Pressing this button will transform a list of disorganized tasks into relevant categories. The feature refrains from altering any specific details regarding the tasks themselves. Instead, it leverages the current ‘Sections’ feature, allowing you to arrange tasks under various subheadings. While you can always establish your own Sections to organize, with Reminders in iOS 26, it’s remarkably simple to let Apple Intelligence handle the organization for you.

## My experience using Auto-Categorize in Reminders

For one of my frequently used Reminders lists, I employed Auto-Categorize, which generated new sections such as:

– Work
– Home
– Health
– Financial Tasks
– Household and Maintenance
– Miscellaneous and Other
– Travel and Leisure

The AI performed admirably, creating the sections and then automatically sorting my tasks into their appropriate places. In earlier iterations of Reminders, I primarily relied on the Today or Scheduled smart lists. My other lists were a tangled jumble of disorganized tasks, providing little incentive for me to access them. However, in iOS 26, I’ve discovered that I am spending more time in those other Reminders lists, as proper organization makes them significantly more useful than ever before.

Have you utilized the Auto-Categorize feature in iOS 26 for your Reminders lists? How has it functioned for you? Share your experiences in the comments.

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Berkshire Hathaway Offloads More Shares of Apple Inc.

Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway has once again decreased its ownership in Apple Inc., as indicated in a recent regulatory disclosure. During the June quarter, Berkshire sold 20 million shares of Apple, yet the tech behemoth continues to be the largest investment in Berkshire’s portfolio, holding 280 million shares valued at over $64 billion.

Berkshire Hathaway began purchasing Apple stock in 2016. At its zenith in 2023, the firm owned more than 915 million shares, which accounted for over 50% of its overall holdings. Over the past two years, Buffett has slowly reduced these holdings as part of a plan to boost cash reserves, which currently surpass $344 billion as of the close of Q2 2025.

Buffett has repeatedly praised Apple and its CEO, Tim Cook. He recognized Cook’s substantial contributions to Berkshire’s achievements, saying, “I’m somewhat embarrassed to say that Tim Cook has made Berkshire a lot more money than I’ve ever made.” Buffett highlighted the distinctive talents of both Steve Jobs, who established Apple, and Cook, who has expertly steered the company since Jobs’ demise.

As Buffett, now 94, gears up for retirement at the conclusion of 2025 after more than sixty years at the helm of Berkshire Hathaway, he has appointed 62-year-old Greg Abel as his successor. Following this announcement, Tim Cook conveyed his respect for Buffett, underlining the significant influence he has had on many, including himself.

Alongside its modifications in Apple shares, Berkshire Hathaway has also executed a remarkable investment in UnitedHealth Group, securing over 5 million shares for the first time.

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iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Pro: Main Distinctions in Apple’s Model Variation

Apple’s iPhone 17 series is set to be revealed in a matter of weeks. A common query among consumers each year concerns the Pro variants: what distinguishes the two? Here’s how Apple intends to set apart the iPhone 17 Pro Max from the iPhone 17 Pro this time around.

## What’s in store for iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Pro

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max this year will retain the same screen dimensions as last year: 6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max.

Aside from the size, Apple occasionally distinguishes its Pro models with a unique camera feature. The Pro Max version often receives a new camera functionality a year or more ahead of its smaller counterpart. For instance, the iPhone 15 Pro Max provided 5x telephoto zoom, while the smaller Pro model was limited to 3x until it was updated a year later on the iPhone 16 Pro.

Up to this point, there have been no speculations regarding the iPhone 17 Pro Max acquiring a unique camera feature. Initial speculations about a smaller Dynamic Island on the Pro Max now appear improbable. However, there is a significant change on the horizon that will grant the Pro Max a substantial advantage in one crucial aspect: battery performance.

## iPhone 17 Pro Max will enhance its advantage in delivering superior battery life

In an unusual development, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to be getting thicker this year to accommodate a larger battery. Confidential product measurements have verified the increase in size, which hands-on videos have displayed.

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 remains the same size. Other than a larger camera bump design on the rear, the new Pro model will have the identical fundamental dimensions as last year’s iPhone 16 Pro. This means that the Pro Max’s battery life edge—which was already considerable—is increasing.

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 that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will showcase higher battery life estimates than any iPhone has previously. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to provide roughly the same runtime as last year. On the bright side, the iPhone 17 Pro should still deliver significantly better battery life than what’s available in the ultra-slim new iPhone 17 Air.

Will the battery advantage of the iPhone 17 Pro Max over the 17 Pro matter to you? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Huge Discount Event on Apple Items This Weekend: Price Cuts on MacBooks, iPads, AirPods, and Beyond

### Apple Weekend Promotions: Incredible Savings on Popular Items

As the weekend draws near, a new wave of Apple promotions is catching attention. Following last week’s impressive discounts from key retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H, many of these offers remain available, along with fresh price reductions on a range of Apple products. This article showcases some of the top deals you can find right now, featuring substantial savings on the M4 MacBook Pro and M4 MacBook Air, in addition to price cuts on the Apple Watch Series 10, AirPods, and iPhone 16 Pro.

#### AirPods Savings

The AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 are currently priced lower than ever since the recent Prime Day sales. Shoppers can grab AirPods 4 for just $10 above the lowest historical price, while AirPods Pro 2 are accessible for $20 below their best-ever price.

#### M4 MacBook Air and Pro Offers

The M4 MacBook Air series remains a standout, with discounts available on multiple configurations. From the entry-level model with 16GB of RAM to the larger 15-inch versions sporting 24GB, these offers are rare and should be considered by anyone in need of a new laptop.

Moreover, B&H is presenting substantial savings on M4 MacBook Pro models, with discounts of up to $300 available. This includes:

– **14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/512GB**: Now **$1,299** (Was $1,599)
– **14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/1TB**: Now **$1,499** (Was $1,799)
– **14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: Now **$1,699** (Was $1,999)
– **14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/512GB**: Now **$1,699** (Was $1,999)
– **14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: Now **$2,099** (Was $2,399)
– **14-inch M4 Max MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: Now **$2,899** (Was $3,199)

These prices represent some of the most competitive seen in several months, making it an ideal time to buy.

#### iPad Air Deals

The M3 iPad Air series is also experiencing significant discounts, with up to $150 off across almost every model. This is a fantastic chance for those wanting to upgrade their tablet.

#### Apple Watch Series 10

The Apple Watch Series 10 is now discounted by **$149**, marking one of the best prices for this model to date. This comes shortly after the launch of a new Blood Oxygen feature in the U.S., making it a timely acquisition for health-focused buyers.

#### Conclusion

With various Apple products discounted this weekend, including the M4 MacBook Air and Pro, AirPods, iPads, and the Apple Watch Series 10, shoppers have a special opportunity to enjoy significant savings. Whether you’re aiming to upgrade your gadgets or present a gift, these offers are not to be overlooked. Make sure to explore listings at retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H for the latest deals.

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Apple TV+ Unveils First Snoopy Musical Special in 37 Years

**Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical – A Tribute to Peanuts and Summer Camp**

Apple TV+ has introduced its newest original special, *Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical*, as part of its exclusive collaboration with Peanuts. This represents a landmark achievement in the cherished franchise’s timeline, being the first new musical episode in more than 37 years. The special is a colorful homage to summer camp, featuring a plot where Charlie Brown aims to make his last year at camp unforgettable, while Snoopy and Woodstock set out on a thrilling treasure quest.

The debut of this musical special aligns with the 75th anniversary of Charlie Brown, adding another layer of importance to the launch. The storyline is enhanced with original music, as the Peanuts crew orchestrates a concert to salvage their camp, highlighting a range of new songs. The musical includes tracks like “When We Were Light,” “Look Up, Charlie Brown,” “Leave It Better,” “Best Time Ever,” and “A Place Like This.” Fans can relish a specially curated playlist of these tracks available on Apple Music.

With a duration of 40 minutes, *Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical* provides a charming mix of nostalgia and new material, enticing both devoted fans and newcomers. The partnership between Apple and producer WildBrain guarantees that Apple TV+ stays the exclusive streaming hub for everything Peanuts, encompassing classic specials and new series.

In addition to this musical, Apple is currently developing a feature-length Snoopy film, which is set to take the iconic character on an exciting journey in the big city, although a release date has yet to be revealed.

For those eager to delve into the entire collection of Snoopy content, an Apple TV+ subscription grants access to a vast array of classic specials, new series, original specials, documentaries, and more.

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Apple Creates LLM to Autonomous Understand Efficient Interface Design in SwiftUI

In a recent investigation, Apple researchers unveil a groundbreaking method to enhance open-source models’ abilities in producing user interface (UI) code with SwiftUI. The study, presented in the paper titled “UICoder: Finetuning Large Language Models to Generate User Interface Code through Automated Feedback,” underscores the difficulties that large language models (LLMs) encounter in generating syntactically correct and aesthetically pleasing UI code.

The researchers pinpointed a major concern: even within curated datasets, instances of UI code are alarmingly scarce, often making up less than one percent of all code samples. To tackle this, they employed StarChat-Beta, an open-source LLM geared towards coding, and supplied it with a compilation of UI descriptions. The model was instructed to create a vast synthetic dataset of SwiftUI programs based on these descriptions.

Every generated code segment underwent a stringent validation process, where it was compiled using a Swift compiler to verify its functionality. After compilation, the results were scrutinized by GPT-4V, a vision-language model, which contrasted the generated interfaces with the original descriptions. Outputs that failed to compile, seemed unrelated, or were duplicates were eliminated, resulting in a high-caliber training set for refining the model.

This iterative process was conducted numerous times, producing ongoing enhancements in the model’s capacity to generate SwiftUI code. After five cycles, the researchers compiled nearly one million SwiftUI programs and developed a model called UICoder, which showed a significant enhancement in generating interfaces that closely aligned with the prompts compared to the original model.

Evaluations revealed that UICoder significantly surpassed the base StarChat-Beta model in both automated metrics and human assessments. Importantly, UICoder reached a quality level near that of GPT-4 while exceeding it in successful compilation rates.

A fascinating element of the study was the discovery that the original dataset employed to train StarChat-Beta unintentionally excluded SwiftUI code. The training data mainly comprised three sources: TheStack, a substantial dataset of permissively licensed code repositories; crawled web pages; and OpenAssistant-Guanaco, a smaller instruction-tuning dataset. The researchers determined that Swift code repositories were inadvertently left out of TheStack, and the OpenAssistant-Guanaco dataset included merely one example of Swift code amidst thousands.

This oversight implied that UICoder’s advancements were not based on existing SwiftUI instances but rather stemmed from the self-generated, curated datasets produced through the automated feedback loop established by the researchers. They proposed that this effective strategy for implementing UIs using SwiftUI could potentially generalize to other programming languages and UI frameworks.

The complete study, “UICoder: Finetuning Large Language Models to Generate User Interface Code through Automated Feedback,” is accessible on arXiv for further exploration.

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