Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Maya Rudolph’s ‘Loot’ Comes Back for Season 3 on Apple TV+

**Apple TV’s “Loot” Makes a Comeback for Season 3: What to Anticipate**

Apple TV’s celebrated comedy series “Loot” has returned with a much-anticipated two-episode launch for its third season. The series, which premiered in 2022, revolves around the life of Molly Novak, played by Maya Rudolph, a billionaire learning to navigate the intricacies of wealth and charity following her divorce from tech tycoon John Novak, portrayed by Adam Scott.

**Synopsis of “Loot”**

The inaugural season of “Loot” received positive reviews, paving the way for a successful second season that delved deeper into its characters and plots. Season 3 is set to reintroduce familiar characters while also bringing fresh comedic aspects, including guest spots from well-known actors like D’Arcy Carden, recognized for her character Janet in “The Good Place,” a show that also starred Rudolph and Scott.

**What to Expect in Season 3**

As hinted by Apple, the forthcoming season resumes with Molly Novak having landed her private jet after a thrilling season two conclusion. Audiences will observe her attempts to distance herself from the criticism she endured from other billionaires regarding her charitable work. The season will keep examining the interactions within the Wells Foundation, where Molly and her eclectic team, including her assistant Nicholas (Joel Kim Booster) and colleague Arthur (Nat Faxon), collaborate to ensure she delivers on her vow of donating her wealth.

The returning ensemble cast alongside Rudolph features Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Nat Faxon, Ron Funches, and Joel Kim Booster, promising a combination of laughter and touching moments as they confront the trials of wealth and duty.

**Check Out the Trailer**

Fans can preview the new season by viewing the trailer available on Apple TV.

**Availability**

“Loot” is included in Apple TV’s subscription service, priced at $12.99 per month. The platform boasts a range of popular shows and films, including “Severance,” “The Studio,” “The Morning Show,” “Shrinking,” and “Silo.”

For those eager to experience the comedic adventures of Molly Novak and her colleagues, “Loot” is currently available for streaming on Apple TV.

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Apple Leads Interbrand’s 2025 Best Global Brands List Despite Drop in Brand Value

For the 13th consecutive year, Apple has claimed the top spot in Interbrand’s Best Global Brands ranking, which assesses companies by their value, influence, and brand strength. Here are some key highlights from this year’s list.

### Nvidia Experiences the Largest Annual Increase

Although it is a subjective ranking, Interbrand’s annual Best Global Brands report has provided fascinating revelations about how brand perception and market value change over time. It has also monitored the rise and fall of significant market trends, and, predictably, this year’s list has an AI influence. Interbrand’s Global CEO, Gonzalo Brujó, noted:

> “Digitally enabled services and the emergence of AI are generating winners more rapidly than ever. Disruption is a critical force shaping global brands. Brands that are innovating across sectors, establishing cultural relevance, and investing in long-term brand strategy are prevailing. Those that depend solely on legacy strength are encountering obstacles to their growth.”

In this year’s ranking, Nvidia achieved the most significant increase in brand value, soaring 116% to $43.2 billion, advancing to 15th place. Qualcomm (39th, $20.1B), Dell (51st, $16.3B), and Shopify (99th, $6.9B) were among the 12 new entrants, while Electronic Arts, HP, LG, and WhatsApp were highlighted in the “Brands to Watch” section.

### Technology Leads the Top 5

As it has since 2013, Apple secured the number one position, although it experienced a 4% decline in brand valuation, dropping to $460.9 billion. Microsoft followed in second place with a 10% increase ($388.5B), trailed by Amazon (+7%, $219.9B), Google (+9%, $317.1B), and Samsung (-10%, $90.5B).

Notably, ChatGPT is referenced three times in the report, yet it has not made it onto the list. Overall, Interbrand reported that the combined brand value of the Top 100 brands reached $3.6 trillion, marking a $150 billion rise compared to 2024.

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M5 iPad Pro: Key Characteristics That Improve the Update Journey

# The M5 iPad Pro: An In-Depth Analysis of Its Features and Enhancements

The M5 iPad Pro has officially been released, revealing substantial advancements over its predecessor, the M4 model. Although early speculations suggested few modifications, the new device has surpassed expectations with an array of unexpected features that improve both performance and user experience.

## More Than Just Speculations: Essential Features of the M5 iPad Pro

Prior to the announcement, the conjecture regarding the M5 iPad Pro was scarce. Apart from the expected M5 chip, one of the few forecasts was regarding a second front-facing camera, which ultimately did not come to fruition. Nevertheless, the updates introduced by Apple are remarkable.

### Significant Enhancements Include:

– **Memory Bandwidth**: The M5 iPad Pro features a unified memory bandwidth of 153GB/s, nearly 30% higher than the M4, promoting seamless multitasking.

– **C1X Modem**: This new modem delivers cellular performance that is up to 50% faster and uses up to 30% less energy compared to the M4’s 5G modem, boosting battery longevity during cellular activities.

– **Rapid Charging**: Users can reach up to 50% charge in just 35 minutes, a notable advancement for those who depend on their devices throughout the day.

– **N1 Wireless Chip**: The addition of Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 standards guarantees superior connectivity and dependability for features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot.

– **120Hz External Display Compatibility**: Enhanced support for external displays provides a smoother visual experience, which is especially advantageous for creative professionals.

In summary, the M5 iPad Pro presents more significant advancements than Apple’s recent MacBook Pro and Vision Pro models, rendering it an appealing option for users seeking upgraded performance.

## Why the M5 iPad Pro is an Enticing Upgrade

For many users, particularly those who rely on their iPad Pro as their main computer, the M5 model offers numerous benefits:

– **Increased RAM**: The base model now features 12GB of RAM, up from the 8GB in the M4, with the 1TB model providing an even larger upgrade to 16GB. This enhancement facilitates improved multitasking, particularly with the new iPadOS 26.

– **Enhanced Cellular Performance**: With the C1X modem, users can anticipate quicker performance and decreased power usage, making it an ideal choice for those who frequently utilize cellular data.

– **Rapid Charging Capability**: The introduction of fast charging is especially beneficial for heavy users who might find their battery depleting throughout the day.

– **Enhanced Continuity Features**: The N1 chip is designed to bolster the reliability of functionalities such as AirDrop and Personal Hotspot, which are crucial for uninterrupted device connectivity.

– **Future-Proofing with Display Support**: The expected launch of a new Studio Display, which may include higher refresh rates, pairs well with the M5 iPad Pro’s 120Hz support, making it a wise investment for the future.

These features together render the M5 iPad Pro a meaningful upgrade for users aspiring to enhance their productivity and overall user experience.

## Conclusion

The M5 iPad Pro has demonstrated itself to be a substantial upgrade, providing a multitude of new features that address the needs of contemporary users. With enhanced performance, improved connectivity, and well-considered design upgrades, it emerges as a compelling option for anyone contemplating an iPad Pro. As Apple continues its innovations, the M5 iPad Pro establishes a new benchmark for user expectations in tablet technology.

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Apple Intelligence Unveils More Than 20 Newly Added Features in iOS 26: Full List Accessible

# New Apple Intelligence Capabilities Now in iOS 26

While Apple Intelligence may not yet present the significant Siri enhancements that were anticipated, a plethora of additional features has just been introduced in iOS 26. Here’s everything you need to know.

In iOS 18, Apple Intelligence featured slightly over 20 functionalities. However, iOS 26 brings forth an additional 20+ features and enhancements—all within a single software update.

Here’s the comprehensive list of new AI functionalities divided into four categories:

## Communication

Communication takes center stage with Apple Intelligence in iOS 26, offering enhancements to the Messages, FaceTime, and Phone applications.

## Expanding into More Applications and Languages

Apple has broadened the scope of Apple Intelligence to include new system and third-party applications in iOS 26, along with additional supported languages.

– **Apple Maps Enhanced Search**: Improved, more efficient search capabilities in Maps thanks to AI.
– **Shortcuts AI Actions**: Utilize actions that leverage Apple’s AI models, Writing Tools, or image generation features.
– **Auto-Categorizing Reminders**: Effortlessly convert a messy list into a well-organized and categorized one.
– **Reminders Suggestions**: Generate new reminders based on information from emails, websites, or notes.
– **Apple Wallet Order Tracking**: AI will extract order tracking details directly from your email inbox, including Amazon orders.
– **AI Models for Third-Party Applications**: Applications can utilize Apple’s Foundation Models to implement new AI functionalities.
– **New Supported Languages**: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese.

## Image Creation Enhancements

Apple’s Genmoji and Image Playground features have received several improvements in iOS 26.

## Miscellaneous

Completing Apple Intelligence’s iOS 26 update, there’s a new battery mode, significant visual intelligence updates, and expanded notification summaries.

Additionally, Apple has numerous watchOS 26 Apple Intelligence features that necessitate iOS 26 to operate the AI models, potentially qualifying them as iOS features as well.

## iPhone Compatibility for Apple Intelligence in iOS 26

When Apple Intelligence was launched last year, it supported a limited number of very recent iPhone models.

There’s some good news and bad news regarding iOS 26:

– The good news is, if your iPhone supported last year’s AI capabilities, all of Apple Intelligence’s new features will function as well.
– The bad news is, Apple has not extended AI support to any earlier devices.

This means you will require an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, or any iPhone 16, iPhone 17, or iPhone Air model to access the new features.

Which new Apple Intelligence capabilities in iOS 26 do you enjoy the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Apple Unveils Fix for Ongoing ‘Not Delivered’ iMessage Problem

Apple has recently revised a support document that deals with frequent problems users might face with iMessages, specifically the “Not Delivered” notification, messages showing as SMS/RCS in green bubbles, or messages sent from an email address instead of a phone number.

As stated by Apple, these problems can occur if users fail to activate their eSIM during the initial setup of a new iPhone running iOS 26. When users choose to configure their eSIM later through the Settings app, iMessage does not activate automatically, which can lead to potential messaging difficulties.

To fix this, Apple advises users to manually activate iMessage after setting up their eSIM. The following steps outline the process:

1. Launch the Settings app and tap on Apps.
2. Choose Messages.
3. Switch iMessage off and then back on.

This advice is especially pertinent for users who bypass the eSIM setup during the initial configuration of their new iPhone, as well as for those who change carriers and set up a new eSIM later on.

This isn’t the first iMessage-related issue reported since the launch of iOS 26. Earlier this month, Apple addressed another situation affecting users who were unable to activate iMessage with their phone numbers, providing further troubleshooting steps.

Users encountering difficulties with iMessage since updating to iOS 26 or acquiring a new iPhone are encouraged to follow the mentioned steps to ensure proper activation and functionality.

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Steve Jobs to Be Honored on the 2026 American Innovation $1 Coin

The US Mint has declared that Steve Jobs, Apple’s co-founder, will appear on one of the coins in the forthcoming American Innovation $1 Coin Program for 2026. This program, which started in 2018, is designed to honor American innovation by releasing $1 coins that symbolize significant contributions from individuals or groups throughout the United States, encompassing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories.

In earlier years, the initiative has recognized remarkable inventions and personalities, including the lightbulb from New Jersey, the Hubble Space Telescope from Maryland, and George Washington Carver from Missouri. For 2026, the Mint has unveiled four new designs, with Jobs representing California.

The coin depicting Steve Jobs was crafted by Elana Hagler and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill. The design features a young Jobs in a contemplative stance against the backdrop of northern California’s oak-dotted rolling hills, symbolizing how his surroundings shaped his vision to create complex technology that is more intuitive and accessible. The inscriptions on the coin encompass “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “CALIFORNIA,” “STEVE JOBS,” and the phrase “MAKE SOMETHING WONDERFUL.”

Besides Steve Jobs, the other coins in the 2026 collection will pay tribute to Dr. Norman Borlaug from Iowa, the Cray-1 Supercomputer from Wisconsin, and mobile refrigeration from Minnesota.

For further details regarding the American Innovation $1 Coin Program, you can visit the US Mint’s official website.

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Comparison between M5 MacBook Pro and M4 MacBook Air: Assessing the Top Entry-Level Mac Acquisition

**Apple Reveals New 14-Inch MacBook Pro Featuring M5 Chip: An In-Depth Review**

Today, Apple launched its newest entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro, equipped with the M5 chip, retailing at $1599. This version comes in close proximity to the MacBook Air, particularly when similarly equipped. As the MacBook Air is released with older Apple Silicon, those considering a purchase might question its ongoing relevance.

### M5 vs M4 Chip

For many, the chip choice is paramount. The M5 chip presents numerous upgrades over the M4:

– **15% improved multithreaded CPU capabilities**
– **45% enhanced GPU performance**
– **30% boost in unified memory bandwidth**
– **4x peak GPU compute capability for AI**

These upgrades signify a notable advancement in GPU performance, which could be vital as Apple emphasizes local AI systems. Nevertheless, the M4 chip still provides sufficient performance for typical users, and selections shouldn’t be based exclusively on impending AI advancements.

### Air vs Pro: Is the Extra Cost Justified?

The 14-inch MacBook Pro brings forth various benefits over the MacBook Air, justifying its elevated price. Key advantages include:

– **Extra Ports**: The MacBook Pro offers three Thunderbolt/USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and an SD card slot, while the Air has only two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports.
– **Cooling Mechanism**: The Pro is equipped with an active cooling system, vital for demanding CPU/GPU operations, whereas the Air depends on passive cooling that may result in thermal throttling under sustained heavy use.
– **Display Excellence**: The MacBook Pro’s miniLED display accommodates HDR content, providing superior color fidelity and brightness (1000 nits) compared to the Air’s conventional display (500 nits).

### Conclusion

Generally, the price disparity between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro is approximately $400 when similarly configured. The Air begins at $1199 with 256GB of storage, while the Pro comes with 512GB. Considering this price difference, potential purchasers should deliberate their choices thoroughly.

While the new 14-inch MacBook Pro is attractive, it may be prudent to hold off for potential deals, as new MacBooks frequently experience price drops soon after launch. The M4 MacBook Air is often discounted, with current deals making it substantially less expensive than the new Pro variant.

Ultimately, the choice should depend on whether the user requires the Pro’s superior thermal management, display quality, or extra ports instead of merely the M5 chip’s features.

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EU Regulations Do Not Prevent Apple from Bundling a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro

### The Latest M5 14-Inch MacBook Pro: Unpacking the Charger Debate

The recent launch of the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro has ignited significant dialogue and misunderstanding, especially regarding its packaging in the UK and EU. Notably, the gadget does not come with a power adapter included, prompting many to assume this choice is driven by European Union regulations. Nevertheless, the situation is more intricate.

#### What EU Regulations Indicate and Their Implications

The European Union has taken a proactive stance on tackling the escalating problem of electronic waste (e-waste). Two central issues led to this emphasis, motivating the EU to introduce fresh regulations.

1. **Variety of Charging Standards**: Traditionally, several manufacturers have employed different charging port standards for their devices, such as MicroUSB, MiniUSB, USB-C, and coaxial connectors. This lack of uniformity meant that consumers frequently ended up with obsolete chargers when upgrading their devices.

2. **Excessive Charging Adapters**: Numerous consumers gather multiple chargers over time, contributing to waste. To address this, the EU’s **Common Charger Directive** requires that new devices standardize on USB-C charging ports. Furthermore, manufacturers must provide consumers the option to acquire devices with or without a charger, thus minimizing unnecessary waste.

#### Implications for Apple

It is essential to clarify what the EU regulations do not dictate:

– **Support for Multiple Charging Standards**: The regulations do not prohibit companies from adopting more than one charging standard. It merely mandates that devices must be chargeable using USB-C. This latitude allows Apple to provide the MacBook Pro with both MagSafe and USB-C charging options.

– **Provision of Chargers**: The regulations do not forbid companies from including chargers at no additional cost. Instead, they stress that consumers should have the choice. Apple’s decision to omit the charger from the MacBook Pro packaging is a tactical approach to sidestep the challenges of manufacturing two versions of the product in Europe.

Apple could readily provide customers the option to add a charger to their purchase. The decision to charge for the charger is a business choice rather than a legal obligation.

#### Summary

The absence of a power adapter in the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro is not a direct consequence of EU law disallowing such items, but rather a manifestation of Apple’s strategy to conform with the EU’s emphasis on minimizing e-waste. As consumers become increasingly environmentally aware, the option regarding the inclusion of a charger may be well-received, fostering a more sustainable approach to technology usage.

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Tim Cook Pledges to Boost Investments in China During Trip

**Apple’s Dedication to China during Trade Strains: Observations from Tim Cook’s Latest Trip**

After several months of alterations in supply chains and diversification tactics due to rising US–China trade strains, Apple CEO Tim Cook has reiterated the company’s dedication to investing in China. This pledge comes during a pivotal moment as numerous U.S. firms take a more cautious approach to their operations in the area.

During his latest trip to China, Cook was notably gifted a personalized Labubu doll, a moment that rapidly became viral. His itinerary included a visit to an Apple Store where the company revealed that preorders for the new iPhone Air would begin soon. Moreover, Apple launched a new environmental project in partnership with Tsinghua University, emphasizing its persistent commitment to sustainability in the region.

Cook’s discussions with Chinese government representatives, including industry minister Li Lecheng, were important. Reports indicate that he conveyed Apple’s resolve to keep investing in China, although details about the investment figures were not revealed. This announcement is particularly significant in light of the increased trade tensions and tariffs between the U.S. and China, which have prompted many American firms to rethink their approaches in the Chinese market.

Understanding the context of Cook’s statements is essential. There has been a minor upturn in iPhone sales in China following an extended phase of reduced demand, which could have contributed to his positive perspective. However, Cook’s role as CEO is becoming increasingly complicated by the ongoing trade conflict, creating a challenging landscape for multinational companies like Apple.

While the U.S. government has not yet reacted to Cook’s commitments, historical trends indicate that scrutiny or backlash could arise soon as the tensions between the two economic powers continue to shift. Cook’s effort to maintain robust connections with China while managing U.S. political pressures will likely shape his leadership in the years ahead.

In conclusion, Tim Cook’s recent visit to China underscores Apple’s unwavering commitment to the area amidst intricate geopolitical landscapes. As the company persists in innovating and growing its footprint, the ramifications of U.S.–China relations will stay a vital consideration in its strategic choices.

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Spotify DJ Unveils Text-Based Requests and Expands Language Options to Spanish

**Spotify Enhances AI DJ Features with Text Requests and Spanish Language Support**

In May, Spotify launched an interactive iteration of its AI-driven DJ, enabling users to request music in real-time. Initially limited to voice commands, the feature has now been upgraded to incorporate typed requests, along with other enhancements.

### New Features of the AI DJ

Spotify’s AI DJ interactivity was introduced as a beta feature, and the company has been collecting user feedback to improve the user experience. The latest updates feature:

– **Text Requests**: This was the top request from users on social platforms. Now, users can not only use voice commands but also type their music requests, providing greater convenience in busy, noisy, or quiet settings.

– **Spanish Language Support**: First rolled out in 2024 for Spanish-speaking audiences, DJ Livi can now handle both typed and spoken requests, ensuring it matches the functionality of the English-speaking DJ.

Furthermore, the AI DJ will suggest three personalized prompts, aiding users in finding songs and playlists tailored to their listening preferences while demonstrating the DJ’s capabilities.

For more information regarding these updates, check out Spotify’s official announcement.

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