AllYouCanTech

9to5Mac Daily: August 14, 2025 – Comeback of Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Functionality and More Enhancements

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly moving realm of technology, being in the loop with the newest news and advancements is vital, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that offers a handy way to stay updated on the main stories of the day related to Apple and its ecosystem.

**What is 9to5Mac Daily?**

9to5Mac Daily is a daily podcast that highlights the most important news in the Apple world. Each episode is recorded during weekdays, guaranteeing that listeners get timely news on product releases, software updates, and industry developments. The podcast is hosted by Chance, who shares insights and commentary on the latest events in the tech industry.

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Listeners can tune into 9to5Mac Daily on a variety of platforms, making it simple to listen from anywhere. The podcast can be found on:

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Apple TV+ Contesting for MLB Sunday Night Baseball and Postseason Game Broadcast Privileges

Apple TV+ presently provides baseball enthusiasts with Friday night matches, but it seems that Apple might soon enhance its MLB offerings for subscribers.

### The Athletic reports MLB rights are down to either Apple or Peacock

Andrew Marchand writes in *The Athletic*:

> Apple and NBC/Peacock seem to be the final candidates for the “Sunday Night Baseball” package and, likely,

Uber Assesses Insurance Reimbursements for Hold-ups, Cancelled Trips, and Overlooked Flights

Uber is investigating new insurance alternatives for certain customers in Brazil, intended to offer coverage for various inconveniences tied to ride-hailing services. This initiative emerges as the company aims to boost customer satisfaction and tackle prevalent concerns encountered by riders.

### Insurance May Address Delays and Even Missed Flights

Uber riders frequently find themselves in situations where they incur cancellation fees upon canceling a ride, which serves to compensate drivers for their time and fuel. On the other hand, riders have traditionally had no options when drivers cancel or when rides surpass expected durations. Nevertheless, Uber is contemplating the introduction of a variety of paid insurance alternatives that could alter this scenario.

As per reports from the Brazilian site Tecnoblog, Uber is polling selected customers to gauge interest in these novel insurance offerings. Although the company has yet to confirm when or if these initiatives will come to fruition, the prospective advantages are significant.

### Potential Insurance Offerings

The suggested insurance options consist of:

– **Compensation for Trip Delays:** A predetermined payout for delays instigated by the driver that postpone the commencement of a ride.

– **Compensation for Canceled Trips:** Coverage for instances where a driver’s cancellation interferes with a rider’s plans or commitments.

– **Compensation for Missed Flights:** Insurance for rides to the airport that result in a missed flight, akin to a policy currently enacted in Mumbai, which compensates riders for missed flights due to delays.

– **Reimbursement for Personal Items:** Coverage for lost belongings during a ride.

Should these insurance options be launched in Brazil, initial research indicates that the cost could hover around R$0.20 (roughly $0.04) per trip, although pricing could fluctuate.

### Future Prospects

While the current emphasis is on Brazil, there is yet to be any indication that Uber intends to broaden these insurance offerings to other markets, including the United States. The introduction of such services could profoundly improve the user experience by providing riders with peace of mind and financial safeguarding against common ride-related complications.

As Uber continues collecting insights from customers, the possibility of ride insurance might transform the ride-hailing service landscape, rendering it more dependable and centered around customer needs.

Apple Card Secures Third Position in J.D. Power’s U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Rankings

### J.D. Power’s 2025 U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study: Apple Card’s Fall

J.D. Power’s 2025 U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study has uncovered a major change in customer satisfaction concerning credit cards, signaling the conclusion of Apple Card’s four-year dominance. This year, the Hilton Honors American Express card has risen to the forefront among co-branded credit cards that do not charge an annual fee, earning a score of 641 points out of a maximum of 1,000. The Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi secured the second position with a score of 629, while Apple’s credit card, provided by Goldman Sachs, finished third with 624 points.

#### Apple’s Score Drop

Apple’s score has decreased by 30 points from the previous year’s survey, reflecting a significant drop in customer satisfaction. The study, which engaged nearly 40,000 credit card users between June 2024 and July 2025, evaluated satisfaction across seven essential factors: account oversight, benefits, customer service, new account procedures, rewards accumulation, rewards redemption, and terms.

Overall satisfaction for all credit cards within the study increased slightly by one point to 611. Noteworthy is the nine-point rise in satisfaction among financially healthy customers, whereas those deemed financially unhealthy saw a one-point decrease, mainly due to dissatisfaction with credit limits, account management, and balance transfers.

#### Consequences for Apple Card

The decrease in Apple Card’s satisfaction score reflects broader difficulties the company encounters with its credit card program. Recent reports indicate that Apple might be approaching a partnership with JPMorgan Chase to take over the Apple Card association, as Goldman Sachs aims to exit its agreement after significant financial setbacks and a reevaluation of its consumer finance approach.

This change in partnerships could herald a new path for Apple Card, potentially bolstering customer satisfaction in the future. The company’s capacity to adjust and improve its credit card services will be vital in reclaiming its position within the competitive credit card landscape.

#### Conclusion

The findings of the 2025 J.D. Power U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study underscore the changing dynamics of credit card offerings and customer expectations. As Apple addresses its hurdles with the Apple Card, attention will be directed toward enhancing customer satisfaction and redefining its credit card strategy to compete effectively in the marketplace.

US Government Engaged in Talks to Obtain Share in Intel, Resulting in Spike in Stock Values

**Intel’s Stock Climb Amid Government Stake Discussions**

Intel’s shares saw a notable rise in late trading today, propelled by reports that the Trump administration is engaging in talks to secure a stake in the firm. This news follows President Trump’s recent demand for the resignation of Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, which was succeeded by a meeting between the two.

**Government’s Interest in Intel**

As stated in a Bloomberg report, the Trump administration’s interest in Intel is part of a larger initiative to strengthen the company’s proposed factory hub in Ohio. This site was originally expected to be the largest chip manufacturing facility in the world, but has encountered multiple delays, extending its completion date into the 2030s. The discussions regarding the potential stake are still in the early stages, with details about the size of the stake still undetermined.

Intel’s shares, which had previously grown by 7.38% throughout the day, experienced an added boost of 3.2% in after-hours trading following the news.

**Background of the Discussions**

The discussions seem to be a direct result of a recent meeting between President Trump and CEO Lip-Bu Tan. This meeting occurred after Trump’s public disparagement of Tan, referring to him as “highly CONFLICTED.” This comment arose from Tan’s past leadership position at Cadence Design, a company that recently admitted guilt to charges tied to selling chip-design products to a Chinese military university.

While Intel has opted not to comment on the potential arrangement, the company did convey its dedication to aiding the Trump administration’s initiatives to enhance U.S. technology and manufacturing prowess. The White House has yet to issue any remarks regarding the discussions.

**Conclusion**

As the situation progresses, the ramifications of a government stake in Intel could significantly influence the company’s trajectory and the semiconductor sector at large. Investors and market watchers will closely monitor for more updates on this unfolding narrative.

iPhone 17 Launch Date: Expected Schedule for Apple’s Next Smartphone

**iPhone 17 Launch Date: What to Anticipate**

Nearly a year has passed since Apple unveiled its premier iPhone 16 collection, and excitement is growing for the iPhone 17 launch. Here’s what we can look forward to regarding the release of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

### September is the Launch Month for the iPhone 17 Series

Apple has set a regular release schedule for its devices, especially for the iPhone, which generally debuts around the same period every year. Traditionally, new iPhones are revealed during a significant media event and become available for purchase approximately a week and a half later.

Recent iPhone announcement dates are as follows:
– **2024**: Monday, September 9
– **2023**: Tuesday, September 12
– **2022**: Wednesday, September 7
– **2021**: Tuesday, September 14

Following this trend, we anticipate Apple to announce the upcoming iPhone 17 series during the week of September 8, most likely on Monday the 8th or Tuesday the 9th.

### Anticipated Official Release Date for the iPhone 17

Although the specific announcement day may vary slightly, the official launch day for new iPhones generally falls on a Friday, occurring the week after the announcement. Hence, the iPhone 17 release date is anticipated to be Friday, September 19.

Recent timelines for iPhone launches support this pattern:
– **2024: iPhone 16**
– Announced: Monday, September 9
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 13
– Release date: Friday, September 20
– **2023: iPhone 15**
– Announced: Tuesday, September 12
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 15
– Release date: Friday, September 22
– **2022: iPhone 14**
– Announced: Wednesday, September 7
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 9
– Release date: Friday, September 16

Regardless of the exact announcement date, pre-orders for the iPhone 17 are expected to begin that Friday, with the official launch the following Friday.

### iPhone 17 Release Date: Conclusion

In conclusion, Apple adheres to a consistent strategy for its flagship iPhone releases. For the forthcoming iPhone 17 series, we can anticipate:
– **2025: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max**
– Announced: Week of September 8
– Pre-orders: Friday, September 12
– Release date: Friday, September 19

Which new iPhone 17 variant do you intend to purchase? Share your thoughts in the comments.

New Solution for Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Capability Unveiled Promptly

**Apple Brings Back Blood Oxygen Monitoring for Certain Apple Watch Models with watchOS 11.6.1**

With the latest launch of watchOS 11.6.1 and the accompanying iOS 18.6.1, Apple has reinstated blood oxygen measurements for U.S. users of the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2. This update follows the complete removal of the feature in late 2023, addressing worries among users who were reluctant to transition to newer models due to the absence of this health monitoring function.

However, the return of blood oxygen monitoring comes with a stipulation. The procedure now necessitates the iPhone to manage data processing and present results, making it a bit less user-friendly than it once was. In spite of this change, the reinstatement of the feature represents a major advancement for Apple, particularly as it gears up for the expected debut of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 this fall.

For current owners of the Apple Watch Series 8, Ultra 1, and prior models, the new workaround mitigates some hesitation regarding an upgrade. Numerous users had reservations about potentially losing the blood oxygen functionality, which is vital to the Apple Watch’s standing as a health and fitness tracker. This workaround reflects Apple’s dedication to ensuring critical health features remain intact without sacrificing user experience, even amidst ongoing legal disputes with Masimo, a company that has raised issues regarding the blood oxygen monitoring technology.

Apple’s wearables division has encountered obstacles recently, with industry statistics revealing a 19 percent decrease in Apple Watch shipments year over year in 2024, as per Counterpoint Research. This decline follows the release of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in 2023, which received mixed feedback, and minimal significant updates in 2024, except for a new color alternative.

The blood oxygen monitoring concern has primarily impacted U.S. consumers, yet the worry about losing a feature during an upgrade has been prevalent. The timing of the workaround is strategic, occurring just a month prior to the anticipated introduction of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3, possibly motivating users to upgrade without the anxiety of forfeiting valuable health tracking features.

In conclusion, Apple’s reestablishment of blood oxygen monitoring through watchOS 11.6.1 is a timely reaction to user concerns, emphasizing the significance of health monitoring in its wearable devices and positioning the company advantageously ahead of its forthcoming product releases.

Blood Oxygen Functionality Makes a Comeback on Apple Watch in iOS 26 Beta 5 Together with Apple Tabletop Robots

### Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Makes a Comeback

In an unexpected development, Apple has declared that the Blood Oxygen feature for the Apple Watch will be returning for users in the United States. This revival comes via a phone relay workaround, enabling users to again track their blood oxygen levels right from their wrist. This functionality, which was formerly offered, had been temporarily suspended, resulting in speculation and disappointment among users. The reinstatement of this feature underscores Apple’s dedication to health and wellness technology, further solidifying the Apple Watch’s status as a premier health monitoring gadget.

### iOS 26 Beta Launch

In tandem with the announcement about the Blood Oxygen feature, Apple has also launched the most recent beta version of iOS 26. This update brings forth a variety of thrilling new animations and additional enhancements to the Liquid Glass interface, set to improve user experience and visual appeal. Participants in the beta program will have the chance to explore these new features prior to the official roll-out, contributing valuable insights to Apple as they finalize the software.

### Speculation on Affordable MacBook

Along with the updates on the Apple Watch and iOS, there is increasing speculation about a possible affordable MacBook. Industry experts and enthusiasts are eagerly debating the implications of such a device, which could make Apple’s computing technology more attainable to a wider audience. This initiative could indicate Apple’s strategy to capture a larger market share, particularly among students and cost-conscious consumers.

### Future Aspirations in Home Robotics

Apple’s ambitions transcend personal devices, with new information surfacing about the company’s forthcoming ventures into home robotics. While details remain limited, the potential for Apple to enter the home automation and robotics sector has generated significant interest. This aligns with the rising trend of smart home technology, and Apple’s prowess in software and hardware integration could position it favorably in this emerging arena.

### Happy Hour Plus

For those seeking more comprehensive discussions, Benjamin and Chance host the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus, where they explore recent TV shows and movies they appreciated over the summer. Subscribers can benefit from ad-free episodes, pre- and post-show content, and exclusive bonus episodes by joining for $5 per month or $50 per year at

Recent Speculations: Forthcoming Apple TV 4K, Cellular MacBook Pro, Home Camera, and Beyond

# Rumor Replay: Latest Apple Product Speculations

This week’s installment of Rumor Replay at 9to5Mac highlights thrilling news in Apple’s product range, including updates on the upcoming Apple TV 4K chip, the expected Studio Display 2, the M5 MacBook Pro with cellular features, and more.

## Apple TV 4K to Feature A17 Pro, Along with Additional Chip Leaks

Recent revelations from Apple code, brought to light by Aaron Perris and reported by MacRumors, indicate major updates concerning chips for forthcoming Apple products. Particularly, the new Apple TV 4K is anticipated to include either an A17 Pro or A18 chip, boosting its capabilities for Apple Intelligence support. Furthermore, the Studio Display 2 is rumored to come with an A19 Pro chip, which corresponds with earlier claims of a new Mac monitor that acts as a smart home display.

## M5 MacBook Pro Might Introduce 5G Cellular in Early 2026

The M5 MacBook Pro is stirring excitement with claims that it may feature 5G cellular functionality, possibly launching in early 2026. This marks a departure from earlier expectations that cellular features would appear with the M6 MacBook Pro later in the year. The potential testing of a C1 modem in the M5 model suggests Apple is advancing towards incorporating cellular technology into its Mac products.

## Apple Home Surveillance Cameras

Apple is reportedly stepping into the home security domain, intending to unveil a variety of cameras and security solutions. A battery-operated security camera is anticipated to debut in 2026, equipped with facial recognition and infrared sensors. This initiative could improve home automation, enabling features such as automatic lighting and music playback based on room occupants.

## Fresh Siri Design Incoming

Mark Gurman has suggested that Siri will experience a notable visual overhaul as soon as next year. The revamped look may take cues from the Mac’s Finder icon, coinciding with robust enhancements in iOS 26.4. While this update is expected to improve Siri’s conversational skills, the precise timeline for the redesign remains unclear.

## Conclusion

This week’s speculations underscore Apple’s continuous innovation across its product lineup, ranging from upgraded chips in the Apple TV and MacBook Pro to new pursuits in home security and a revitalized Siri interface. As these advancements progress, they promise to transform the user experience within the Apple ecosystem.

Philips Hue ‘Bridge Pro’ Offers Enhanced Capacity and Motion Sensor Integration

Philips Hue is said to be preparing for the debut of a new “Bridge Pro,” which aims to elevate its smart lighting ecosystem by adding advanced features and an expanded device capacity. The existing Philips Hue bridge has been fundamental to the Hue system, linking numerous smart lighting devices to a home network. Yet, it has received criticism for its limitation of accommodating only 50 devices at the same time, highlighting the necessity for an upgrade.

The forthcoming “Bridge Pro” is being promoted as Philips Hue’s “most sophisticated smart home hub,” assuring quicker performance and increased capacity, although specific details about the enhanced device support have not yet been revealed. This upgrade seeks to overcome the constraints of the current bridge while offering innovative functionalities.

One of the standout features of the Bridge Pro is “MotionAware” technology, which enables Hue lighting products to operate as motion detectors. This feature could significantly improve home automation by allowing lights to react to movement, providing an extra layer of convenience and security. While the precise details on how this will integrate with existing bulbs are still uncertain, it opens up exciting possibilities for users aiming to enhance their smart home functionality.

Alongside the new bridge, the leaked information also discloses additional forthcoming products, such as a wired Philips Hue video doorbell, adaptable “Festavia” lights suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings, new gradient light strips, and a new A19 bulb. Moreover, the integration with Sonos voice controls is also anticipated, enriching the overall smart home experience.

The information concerning the Bridge Pro and these new offerings was initially located on a now-removed webpage, but a PDF version remains available, suggesting that these announcements could be on the horizon. As the smart home market continues to progress, the launch of the Bridge Pro could reinforce Philips Hue’s status as a frontrunner in the smart lighting industry, meeting the increasing demand for more advanced home automation solutions.