Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Next Year’s iPhone Air Anticipated to Thrive Thanks to Two Major Benefits

# The iPhone Air 2: Expected Benefits and Market Standing

The iPhone Air received a blend of responses since its release, with numerous users cautious about adopting Apple’s newest model. However, as speculations about the forthcoming iPhone Air 2 intensify, two key benefits may set it up for enhanced success within the marketplace.

## 1. The Entry-Level Model Benefit

Apple is said to be preparing a noteworthy overhaul for its autumn iPhone collection next year. Significantly, in a first, there will be no fresh base model launched alongside the iPhone 18. Instead, the debut of the base model has been deferred to spring 2027, enabling Apple to refine its autumn selections.

This tactical decision implies that the iPhone Air 2 will essentially serve as the new entry-level model in Apple’s premier lineup. As the most economical new choice available amid the year-end marketing excitement, the iPhone Air 2 is expected to draw in consumers who normally choose the base model due to its affordability. This transition could result in heightened sales and appeal for the Air 2, as it is positioned as the entry-level option for individuals seeking an upgrade.

## 2. Overcoming ‘New Model’ Anxieties

The initial release of the iPhone Air faced doubt, as several prospective buyers were worried about its functionality and robustness. Products from early adopters often carry a degree of risk, which can dissuade average consumers. Nevertheless, with a year of positive reviews and user experiences, the iPhone Air 2 will gain from a more positive outlook.

As more users grow accustomed to the iPhone Air and share their favorable experiences, the reluctance associated with early adoption is likely to lessen. Moreover, Apple typically integrates user feedback into the next iteration of its products, indicating that the iPhone Air 2 may include upgrades that tackle initial issues.

In summary, the iPhone Air 2 is well-positioned to leverage its new status as the entry-level model in Apple’s lineup and the favorable buzz created by the existing iPhone Air. With these advantages, it has a solid opportunity to emerge as a more successful option in the competitive smartphone arena.

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iOS 26.1: Summary of New Features and Enhancements

# iOS 26.1: What’s New and Enhanced

Following a summer of beta trials, Apple launched iOS 26 to the public last month. The focus has now turned to iOS 26.1, which is accessible to developers and public beta testers, with a complete launch anticipated later this month. Here’s all you need to know regarding the new features and enhancements in iOS 26.1.

## What’s Updated in iOS 26.1?

iOS 26 brought significant features, including the new Liquid Glass aesthetic. iOS 26.1 enhances this with numerous important updates.

### Liquid Glass Switch

One of the most prominent adjustments in iOS 26.1 is the addition of a switch in the Settings app that enables users to modify the transparency of the Liquid Glass aesthetic.

1. Access Settings
2. Select “Display & Brightness”
3. Tap on “Liquid Glass”

Users can choose between two alternatives: **Clear**, which retains the original transparency, and **Tinted**, which provides a more pronounced appearance, enhancing contrast and lessening transparency. This responds to user suggestions while maintaining the design for those who favor it.

### Disable Camera Swipe on the Lock Screen

For users who inadvertently launch the Camera app from the Lock Screen, iOS 26.1 offers a new switch to turn off this option.

1. Access Settings
2. Select “Camera”
3. Find “Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera”

### Redesigned Alarm Feature

The alarm display has been revamped to avoid unintentional dismissals. Users must now “slide to stop” their alarms rather than simply tapping a large “dismiss” button, decreasing the likelihood of oversleeping.

## New Apple TV Application Icon

Apple has rebranded Apple TV+ to just Apple TV, and iOS 26.1 includes a new, more vibrant application icon as part of this rebranding initiative, showcasing a lively new identity for the streaming platform.

### Additional Minor User Interface Adjustments

iOS 26.1 also encompasses various smaller user interface refinements:

– The Phone app now features a Liquid Glass aesthetic for the numpad.
– The Photos app has enhanced clarity with frosted backgrounds for the video scrubber and navigation bar.
– Application folder titles and headers in the Settings app are now aligned to the left.

### Enhancements to the Music Application

The Music app received a notable redesign in iOS 26, and iOS 26.1 improves this with a new function allowing users to swipe left and right on the Now Playing bar to switch between tracks, enhancing navigation.

### Expansion of Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence has broadened its language capabilities with iOS 26.1, now encompassing:

– Chinese (traditional)
– Danish
– Dutch
– Norwegian
– Portuguese (Portugal)
– Swedish
– Turkish
– Vietnamese

## Local Capture Settings

iOS 26.1 introduces the option to modify gain levels when recording local audio using a connected microphone. Users can also adjust the save path for Local Capture files and enable the feature to solely include audio.

### AirPods Live Translation Update

Live Translation for AirPods has expanded to incorporate support for five additional languages:

– Chinese (Mandarin, simplified)
– Chinese (Mandarin, traditional)
– Italian
– Japanese
– Korean

### And More

The code for iOS 26.1 suggests two significant changes forthcoming for the iPhone, although specifics are still under wraps.

## Conclusion

iOS 26.1 signifies a major update for iPhone users. Those who haven’t yet upgraded to iOS 26 will find iOS 26.1 to be a more stable and polished experience. The complete release is expected by the end of October.

Have you upgraded to iOS 26 yet? Are you anticipating iOS 26.1 or a subsequent update?

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Capabilities and Constraints of the Initial Spatial Stylus for Apple Vision Pro

# The Logitech Muse Spatial Stylus for Apple Vision Pro

The newly unveiled M5 Apple Vision Pro has arrived, paired with the Logitech Muse spatial stylus, crafted to elevate user engagement within the visionOS ecosystem. This groundbreaking accessory is designed to foster a more instinctive and immersive experience for both creators and collaborators.

## Features of the Logitech Muse

The Logitech Muse is meticulously designed to operate flawlessly with the Apple Vision Pro, delivering accurate motion tracking and haptic feedback. This stylus features six degrees of freedom, allowing for smooth and low-latency movement, enabling users to create, annotate, and interact in a three-dimensional environment.

Notable features include:
– **Real-time Haptic Feedback**: The Muse generates tactile responses that enrich virtual interactions, boosting user connection with digital materials.
– **Pressure-sensitive Tip and Force-sensing Button**: These functionalities enable users to adjust line thickness, whether they are drawing on a surface or in midair.
– **Multiple Grip Styles**: The design supports various user preferences, promoting comfort during prolonged usage.
– **Interchangeable Tips**: Users can change tips for varying tactile experiences, catering to personal preferences and specific tasks.
– **Quick Charging**: The device tops up via USB-C, ensuring minimal interruption.

Apple and Logitech have positioned the Muse as a synthesis of familiar aesthetics and cutting-edge spatial technology, aimed at enhancing the Vision Pro workflow.

## Real-world Experience

While firsthand evaluation of the Logitech Muse is still awaited, Phil Traut has shared insightful observations from his experience with the stylus. Notably, the Muse debuted without native visionOS support, which was surprising given its intended design for this ecosystem. Although Apple introduced the Muse in June along with a significant software update for the Vision Pro, crucial applications like Freeform and Notes currently do not facilitate stylus input.

Traut tested the Muse using an app named Crayon for Apple Vision Pro, showcasing its potential in crafting both simple illustrations and intricate 3D models. The stylus seems to greatly enhance the creative workflow, presenting an exciting tool for users.

An update for Crayon that includes compatibility for the Logitech Muse is expected to launch on November 7. While Crayon also supports hand-based interaction, the spatial stylus is anticipated to significantly improve the overall user experience.

The Logitech Muse is available for purchase at $129.95 from Apple, presenting a viable choice for those looking to enrich their interaction with the Apple Vision Pro.

To see the Logitech Muse in action, you can check out Phil Traut’s hands-on video

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Apple Conducts Developer Gathering Highlighting Engaging Media Experiences for Vision Pro

### Apple’s “Encounter with Apple” Event: An In-Depth Exploration of visionOS

Aligning with the debut of the Apple Vision Pro (M5), Apple organized a unique “Encounter with Apple” event at its Developer Center in Cupertino, targeting developers keen on the visionOS platform. This multi-day event was crafted to highlight best practices for developing engaging experiences within the scope of spatial computing.

#### Event Summary

The event welcomed developers to participate on-site, complemented by a live broadcast on YouTube. This dual format enabled a wider audience to connect with the material, which featured comprehensive presentations on generating captivating interactive experiences for visionOS and producing immersive video.

#### Notable Highlights

The schedule included a range of sessions, such as:

– **Day 1**: Emphasized how visionOS 26 can enable powerful storytelling through immersive and interactive media. Developers received guidance on shaping their creative concepts for mediums such as Apple Immersive Video and were introduced to the design of spatial interactions. The day also covered using SharePlay and spatial Personas to strengthen audience engagement.

– **Day 2**: Explored in greater detail Apple Immersive Video and Apple Spatial Audio, examining innovative media experiences and production processes. Attendees had the chance to review past Apple Immersive projects, gaining insightful knowledge on successful content creation.

Besides the presentations, the event included individual consultations with Apple staff and a community networking session, encouraging collaboration and connections among developers.

#### Accessing Event Resources

For those who could not be present, recordings of the sessions are accessible on Apple’s developer YouTube channel, enabling developers to revisit the knowledge shared throughout the event.

#### Final Thoughts

Apple’s dedication to the Vision Pro platform is clear through the abundant resources and support offered to developers during this event. The emphasis on visionOS and immersive storytelling underscores Apple’s commitment to pushing forward spatial computing innovations. For more comprehensive insights, readers may also refer to an extensive review of the Apple Vision Pro (M5).

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Current Offers: Save Up to $100 on the M5 iPad Pro, $140 on the iPad Pro Magic Keyboard, $750 on the 24GB M3 MacBook Air, and More

### Amazon Savings on New M5 iPad Pro and Other Apple Offerings

Today signals the onset of considerable savings on the newly unveiled M5 iPad Pro at Amazon, with the entry-level 13-inch model now discounted by **$50**. Moreover, a premium 2TB variant is available with a **$100 reduction**. These promotions are paired with considerable discounts on additional Apple offerings, such as the Magic Keyboard and MacBook Air.

#### 13-inch M5 iPad Pro Price Cut

The 13-inch M5 iPad Pro is currently priced at **$1,249**, offered in Space Black with 256GB of storage. This price indicates a **$50 price drop** from its initial listing of **$1,299**. Although the discount might not appear significant, it marks the lowest price recorded since the device’s release last week, rendering it a compelling choice for early consumers.

For those seeking advanced features, Amazon is also featuring the 13-inch 2TB M5 iPad Pro with a nano-texture glass upgrade at **$100 off**, broadening options for potential purchasers.

#### MacBook Air Offers at Best Buy

Best Buy presently showcases notable discounts on the 24GB M3 MacBook Air. The 15-inch variant is being offered in open-box condition for **$947.99**, down from its original price of **$1,699**. This offer includes a one-year Apple warranty, ensuring customers receive a product that “functions and appears like new.”

In contrast, brand new 15-inch M3 MacBook Airs are priced higher, making this open-box deal a desirable alternative for those aiming to save.

#### Accessories and Further Savings

Alongside the iPad Pro and MacBook Air discounts, Amazon has the Magic Keyboard discounted by up to **$140**. Additionally, Apple’s 4-pack of AirTags can be purchased at a lowered price of **$16 each**, reflecting Prime Day offers.

#### M4 Pro MacBook Pro Price Reduction

Amazon also features a deal on the 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro, with a discount of **$310** from the list price. The Space Black edition with 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD is now available for **$2,189.13**, reduced from **$2,499**. This represents the best price noted in several months, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a powerful laptop.

### Conclusion

With the release of the M5 iPad Pro, Amazon has rolled out significant discounts, making it an excellent opportunity for consumers to contemplate upgrading their Apple devices. Whether choosing the latest iPad Pro, a MacBook Air, or accessories, these offers provide substantial savings for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.

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Latest Enhancements to Apple One: Summary of Four New Functions

Apple One is a value-packed bundle that merges several Apple services, including Apple Music, Apple TV, and others, based on the selected plan. Recently, Apple One has upgraded its offering with four notable enhancements across various services.

### Apple TV Now Provides Peacock Add-On Discount

Starting this week, standalone Apple TV subscriptions can be paired with Peacock at a special reduced rate. Apple One subscribers, who already have Apple TV as part of their package, can now access Peacock Premium Plus for $10.99 per month, translating to roughly 35% off the standard price of $16.99.

### Apple News+ Welcomed The Washington Post

Over the past year, Apple News+ has notably broadened its content, bringing in new elements like food and recipe features and daily puzzle games. Recently, it incorporated The Washington Post at no additional charge, joining other prominent publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The Athletic.

### iCloud+ Received Multiple Apple Invites Enhancements

Earlier this year, Apple Invites was launched as a tool for event organization, restricted to iCloud+ subscribers for event creation. In the last month, the app unveiled three new functionalities: Home Screen widgets that count down to events, calendar synchronization for automatic event inclusion, and festive themes for holiday events. iCloud+ is progressing beyond mere storage, providing a more extensive range of features.

### Apple Fitness+ Launched Custom Plans

In the recent iOS update, Apple Fitness+ rolled out Custom Plans, designed to assist users in crafting tailored workout routines centered on their preferred activities. The service automatically generates predefined plans to support users in maintaining regularity and challenging their fitness levels. This feature boosts the attractiveness of Fitness+ as a strong contender against other fitness services.

These latest enhancements to Apple One increase its worth and offer subscribers a more all-encompassing array of services.

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Verizon Launches Budget-Friendly ‘Lite’ Home Internet Package

Verizon has recently launched a new ‘Lite’ home internet plan targeting affordable internet access for customers in regions with limited choices. This plan is tailored for those who may not need high-speed internet but still seek a dependable connection for essential online tasks.

### Overview of Verizon’s ‘Home Internet Lite’ Plan

The ‘Home Internet Lite’ plan provides 5G home internet with a maximum download speed of up to 25 Mbps, which is considered relatively modest compared to other market offerings. Nevertheless, it is marketed as a budget-friendly solution for customers lacking access to superior internet services.

#### Plan Key Features:

1. **Cost-Effectiveness**: The plan begins at a base price of $60 per month, but various promotions can lower the monthly fee to as little as $25 for a limited period. Discounts comprise:
– $10 discount for selecting paperless billing.
– $15 off for current Verizon mobile subscribers.
– An additional $10 discount for committing to a three-year price lock.

2. **Reliable Connection**: Although the maximum download speed is limited to 25 Mbps, Verizon indicates that typical speeds will fluctuate between 10-25 Mbps, which may be adequate for basic browsing, streaming, and online activities for smaller households.

3. **Easy Installation**: The plan comes with a complimentary router, facilitating a straightforward self-setup without the necessity of professional installation.

### Intended Audience

This plan specifically targets individuals or small households primarily involved in light internet usage, such as web browsing and streaming on a few devices. It is not crafted for heavy users who need higher speeds for activities like gaming or downloading large files.

### Market Competition

The launch of the ‘Lite’ plan occurs during a period when competitors, like AT&T, have recently hiked prices on their home internet plans. This strategic initiative by Verizon could attract customers searching for more affordable alternatives amid escalating costs in the market.

### Summary

Verizon’s ‘Home Internet Lite’ plan offers a feasible solution for customers in underserved areas pursuing economical internet options. While the speed may not accommodate the needs of every user, it presents a competitive price and straightforward setup, rendering it a sensible choice for individuals with fundamental internet demands.

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Most Suggested Third-Party Applications for iPhone and Mac

# Premier Third-Party Applications for iPhone and Mac

In the rapidly changing realm of technology, third-party applications have become vital resources that boost productivity and simplify everyday tasks. Below is a selective list of some top third-party apps for both iPhone and Mac that meet diverse needs, from navigation to writing.

## iPhone Applications

### CityMapper
CityMapper is an all-encompassing navigation application that excels in metropolitan areas. Unlike conventional mapping services, it merges various public transit options, cycling, and pedestrian paths. Its intuitive interface and real-time information on delays and closures make it an excellent choice for urban residents and travelers. [Discover CityMapper](https://citymapper.com).

### Beeline
For cycling aficionados, Beeline is a premier application that leverages crowdsourced information to suggest the best cycling paths. Its distinctive compass mode enables users to head towards their destination without strict turn-by-turn instructions, encouraging discovery and adventure. [Learn about Beeline](https://9to5mac.com/2024/07/17/beeline-favourite-cycling-navigation-app/).

### Blackmagic Camera
The Blackmagic Camera application is tailored for videographers who wish to utilize their iPhone for high-resolution video capturing. It provides extensive manual controls while featuring a clean interface that resembles Blackmagic hardware, ensuring usability for all. [Find out more about Blackmagic Camera](https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/19/why-the-iphone-is-my-favorite-video-camera-for-b-roll-footage/).

### Libby
Libby is a remarkable application for reading enthusiasts, enabling users to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from their local library. While in-demand titles may involve a wait, the app offers an economical way to indulge in literature without the expense of buying books. [Explore Libby](https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/libby-the-library-app/id1076402606).

### Awesome Habits
For individuals aiming to establish new routines, Awesome Habits is a practical tracking tool. Users can set daily objectives and receive notifications, helping them maintain accountability and enthusiasm in their journey of self-improvement. [Check out Awesome Habits](https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/awesome-habits-habit-tracker/id1514915737).

## Mac Applications

### Aqua Voice
Aqua Voice is a robust voice dictation software that has revolutionized how users engage with their Macs. Its impressive accuracy and simple interface make it an invaluable asset for writers and professionals who favor dictation over typing. [Read more about Aqua Voice](https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/15/aqua-voice-shows-just-how-good-mac-dictation-could-be-if-apple-just-tried/).

### PhraseExpress
PhraseExpress is a text expansion application that enables users to create macros for commonly used text segments. It serves as an excellent substitute for subscription services like TextExpander, offering strong capabilities despite its less refined interface. [Discover PhraseExpress](https://9to5mac.com/2020/08/17/review-phraseexpress-is-textexpander-without-the-subscription/).

### NordVPN
NordVPN is a dependable virtual private network service that improves online privacy and security. It is particularly effective for accessing region-blocked content and ensuring a safe connection when utilizing public Wi-Fi. Its dedication to user privacy and reliable performance makes it a preferred option. [Learn more about NordVPN](https://nordvpn.com/9to5mac).

### Scrivener
Scrivener is frequently regarded as the finest writing application available, presenting a comprehensive suite of resources for writers. Its organizational features allow users to manage research, notes, and drafts all in one location, making it perfect for authors tackling intricate projects.

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Upcoming Enhancements in Sora for iOS: Three New Features to Anticipate

Sora’s newly launched iOS application has experienced a surge in popularity since its debut by OpenAI. Bill Peebles, the leader of Sora at OpenAI, recently revealed thrilling updates concerning future functionalities for the app. Below are three key enhancements users can look forward to shortly.

### Three Upcoming Features for Sora App

#### 1. Character Cameos
Among the most eagerly awaited features is the addition of character cameos. Users will have the option to add cameos of their pets, beloved toys, or even characters generated from their Sora videos. This functionality is designed to boost personalization and creativity in video production. The user interface for generation will also see updates to display trending cameos in real-time.

#### 2. Video Editing Features
Sora is set to introduce fundamental video editing features, beginning with the capability to seamlessly combine multiple clips. This feature is expected to develop further, with Peebles suggesting more sophisticated editing tools on the horizon, which could greatly enhance the user experience.

#### 3. Channels/Groups
To create a more social atmosphere, Sora will roll out channels or groups that enable users to engage with smaller communities. These channels may focus on specific interests, such as sports teams, universities, or organizations, allowing users to share and view content pertinent to their affiliations.

Alongside these features, Peebles noted enhancements in app performance and a decrease in moderation requirements. This strategy appears to be in contrast to OpenAI’s recent agreements aimed at governing deepfakes, leading to questions regarding the equilibrium between creative expression and responsible content oversight.

An Android version of the app is also under development, promising to expand accessibility for users on various platforms.

For those keen on trying Sora, it can be downloaded from the App Store. As the app progresses, user input will be vital in influencing its future advancements.

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CarPlay in iOS 16 Unveils ‘Video in the Car’ Functionality, Missing Support

Apple has implemented a major update concerning CarPlay, allowing for video playback for the first time since its launch. This new capability, rolled out with iOS 26, allows apps to showcase video on the CarPlay screen, but exclusively while the vehicle is stationary. This represents a significant change in Apple’s stance after ten years of prohibiting video playback in cars.

The feature, known as “video in the car,” is emphasized on Apple’s developer site. It permits users to view videos from their iPhone directly on the CarPlay interface, as long as they are not operating the vehicle. Developers looking to incorporate this functionality into their apps are invited to utilize the resources offered through Apple’s MFi Program.

However, even with this progress, video playback support is not yet commonplace. Each car manufacturer has the authority to permit or deny AirPlay video options in their vehicles, which indicates that the application of this feature will differ among various car brands. Consequently, while the functionality is available, it remains unclear when or if video playback will become a widespread feature in cars equipped with CarPlay.

In April 2025, a third-party app managed to provide a CarPlay web browser with video playback for a short time, but this feature was later withdrawn after an App Store review. This occurrence highlights the difficulties developers encounter when navigating Apple’s regulations and the policies of automakers.

Besides the video playback feature, iOS 26 has introduced numerous enhancements to CarPlay, including redesigned icons, improved appearance options, widget support, and updates to crucial applications like Music and Messages. Nonetheless, at this time, no car manufacturers have publicly stated their intentions to support video playback in CarPlay, leaving users and developers eagerly awaiting future updates.

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