Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

YouTube Introduces ‘Recap’ Feature akin to Spotify Wrapped for Videos, Accessible Beginning Today

YouTube has officially introduced a fresh feature named “Recap,” inspired by Spotify’s well-known Wrapped. This feature is designed to offer users a customized overview of their viewing patterns over the past year. Beginning today, YouTube Recap will be accessible to users in North America, with a worldwide launch anticipated within the week.

The Recap feature leverages users’ watch history to create as many as 12 cards that emphasize different elements of their viewing journey, including favorite channels, topics, and overall viewing trends. This effort has received backing from notable members of the YouTube community, such as Hank Green and Marques Brownlee, who have promoted the idea of a comparable feature for video content.

As per YouTube, Recap will distinctly highlight users’ interests and the moments they have explored throughout the year, providing insights into their top channels and even categorizing them according to their viewing habits. Moreover, if users have significantly interacted with music content, the Recap will feature music-related highlights.

The feature is intended to be accessible on mobile applications through the “Home” or “You” tabs, while desktop users can locate it at youtube.com/recap once it is available on their accounts. For mobile access, users must have YouTube version 18.43 or higher on both Android and iOS devices.

YouTube’s Recap is part of a larger trend of platforms delivering personalized content overviews, boosting user engagement and satisfaction. As this feature gradually expands, it is anticipated to become a favored tool for users to contemplate their viewing experiences over the year.

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Apple Unveils Captivating Music Video Highlighting Improved Accessibility Functions for University Students

### Apple’s Short Film Emphasizing Accessibility: A Tribute to Inclusion

Apple has unveiled an inspiring short film that also acts as a music video for “I’m Not Remarkable” by Kittyy & The Class. This creative work not only captivates but also serves as a significant demonstration of Apple’s dedication to accessibility. The film showcases the wide array of accessibility features incorporated into Apple devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, which can greatly improve the college experience for all students, especially those with disabilities.

#### Accessibility Features Tailored for Every Student

Apple underscores that its products are crafted with the needs of every student in mind. The company declares, “Accessibility features like Magnifier on Mac, Accessibility Reader, Braille Access, VoiceOver, Sound & Name Recognition, and Live Captions can enhance access, enrich learning, and create new avenues for individuals with disabilities to study, connect, and thrive in college.” These features are not mere tools; they are vital resources that enable students to navigate their academic paths more efficiently.

#### An Entertaining and Educational Showcase

The short film is characterized as one of the most delightful ways to experience Apple’s accessibility features in action. It imaginatively depicts how these tools can be employed in daily life, making it engaging and informative for viewers. The fusion of music and visual narrative effectively conveys the message of inclusivity and support for all students.

#### Additional Resources

To bolster its accessibility efforts, Apple has introduced a specialized website that complements the ad campaign. The site, found at

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Apple Overhauls AI Projects as OpenAI Sends ‘Code Red’ Warning

As Apple undergoes a shift in its AI leadership and initiates a restructuring, OpenAI is intensifying its efforts by announcing a “code red.”

With concerns of being surpassed by Google’s Gemini, CEO Sam Altman has stated that the company’s focus will solely be on enhancing the quality of ChatGPT.

### Apple Restructures Its AI Initiatives

Apple has revealed that its (now former) AI lead John Giannandrea will retire next year and is stepping down immediately. He will be succeeded by Amar Subramanya, a seasoned professional with experience at Google and Microsoft.

The iPhone manufacturer also indicated that it is reorganizing its AI projects.

Subramanya will take charge of essential sectors, such as Apple Foundation Models, ML research, and AI Safety and Evaluation. The remainder of Giannandrea’s team will be transferred to Sabih Khan and Eddy Cue to align more closely with related divisions.

He faces a significant challenge ahead, managing a team that’s currently understaffed and at a low morale. It’s reasonable to conclude that he will need to enlist additional support swiftly if he intends to recover from the continuous losses Apple has experienced, especially over the last year.

### OpenAI Increases Pressure with “Code Red”

A recent report from the Wall Street Journal indicates that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is worried that ChatGPT has fallen behind Google’s Gemini. He is addressing this by stating that all company resources must be focused on enhancing the chatbot’s quality.

Altman informed staff that the company is initiating a “code red” effort to elevate ChatGPT’s quality, leading to the postponement of other products. He noted that OpenAI had additional tasks to complete regarding the daily user experience of its chatbot, including enhancing personalization features, boosting speed and reliability, and enabling it to respond to a broader array of inquiries.

As OpenAI and Google compete for superiority, this will further heighten the expectations of what Apple must accomplish to remain competitive by the time the revamped Siri is expected to launch next year.

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Tap to Pay on iPhone Grows to 50 Nations with Rollout in Singapore

### Apple’s Tap to Pay on iPhone: Transforming Contactless Payments for Small Enterprises

Apple’s Tap to Pay on iPhone represents a revolutionary capability intended to improve convenience and cost-effectiveness for small enterprises looking to facilitate contactless payments. This cutting-edge service enables vendors to handle transactions directly via their iPhones, removing the necessity for conventional payment terminals or card readers.

#### Worldwide Launch and Availability

Currently, Tap to Pay is progressing with its global rollout, with Singapore being the most recent nation to embrace this innovation. This feature is especially attractive to small businesses, as it greatly diminishes expenses linked to payment processing hardware while simplifying the payment process for customers.

#### Operational Mechanism

With Tap to Pay on iPhone, vendors can receive contactless payments utilizing an iPhone XS or newer, operating on the most updated iOS version. The procedure is simple: at the time of payment, the vendor requests the customer to place their contactless credit or debit card, iPhone, Apple Watch, or any digital wallet close to the vendor’s iPhone. The transaction is then securely finalized using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, without requiring extra hardware. This adaptability allows businesses to accept payments from nearly any location.

#### Safety and Confidentiality

Apple prioritizes safety and confidentiality within its payment functionalities. Tap to Pay on iPhone is crafted to safeguard customers’ payment information using the same technology that secures Apple Pay. All transactions are encrypted and managed through the Secure Element, guaranteeing that Apple does not access purchase specifics or customer identities. Moreover, Apple does not retain card numbers or transaction data, offering reassurance to both vendors and customers regarding data privacy.

#### Compatible Payment Systems

In Singapore, Tap to Pay is compatible with several leading payment systems, including Adyen, Fiuu, HitPay, Revolut, Stripe, and Zoho. Furthermore, Grab plans to introduce Tap to Pay on iPhone starting early next year. The service accommodates a range of card types such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay.

#### Summary

With its latest expansion, Tap to Pay on iPhone is now operational in 50 nations and regions globally, representing a crucial advancement in the development of contactless payment methods. By allowing small businesses to receive payments simply and securely, Apple is not only improving the customer experience but also empowering merchants to succeed in an ever-increasingly digital economy.

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Apple @ Work Podcast: Examining the Elements Contributing to 1Password’s $400 Million Yearly Recurring Revenue Increase

### The Ascendancy of 1Password: Perspectives from CEO David Faugno

In the constantly shifting terrain of digital security, 1Password has positioned itself as a frontrunner, achieving significant growth and creativity. Recently, David Faugno, the CEO of 1Password, imparted perspectives on the company’s path to achieving an impressive $400 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR). This article explores the essential highlights from his conversation, including the idea of agentic browsers and the future of password management.

#### 1. Elevation to $400 Million ARR

1Password’s rise to a $400 million ARR is indicative of the growing need for robust security solutions in a realm where data breaches and cyber threats abound. The company’s emphasis on user-centric design and all-encompassing security features has struck a chord with both individual users and organizations. Faugno stressed the significance of cultivating trust with customers, which has been a fundamental aspect of 1Password’s strategy.

#### 2. The Idea of Agentic Browsers

A major topic of debate was the advent of agentic browsers. These browsers prioritize user agency and security, enabling individuals to exert more control over their online experiences. Faugno elucidated how 1Password is collaborating with these browsers to fortify security measures, simplifying the process for users to handle their passwords and sensitive data fluidly.

#### 3. The Future of Password Management

As the digital realm continues to progress, so does the strategy for password management. Faugno highlighted the necessity of evolving with new technologies and user habits. With the increasing prevalence of biometric authentication and passwordless solutions, 1Password is dedicated to remaining ahead of these trends, ensuring that users can access their accounts securely and conveniently.

#### 4. The Role of Mosyle in Apple @ Work

The discussion was part of the Apple @ Work series, backed by Mosyle, a unified platform for managing Apple devices in workplace settings. Mosyle’s offerings are relied upon by over 45,000 organizations, providing a seamless method to deploy and secure Apple devices. This collaboration underscores the necessity of integrating security measures within organizational frameworks, particularly as remote work gains more traction.

#### Conclusion

The perspectives shared by David Faugno offer a glimpse into the forthcoming landscape of digital security and password management. As 1Password persists in innovating and adapting to the evolving environment, it remains a crucial entity in assuring that users can traverse the digital realm safely. For those keen on learning more about 1Password and its services, tuning in to the full episode of Apple @ Work is strongly advised.

For additional details on how Mosyle can enhance your organization’s management of Apple devices, consider requesting an extended trial to experience their comprehensive solutions firsthand.

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Apple Rebuffs Indian Government’s Appeal to Pre-Load State Security Application on iPhones

The Indian government has required that smartphone manufacturers, including significant entities like Apple and Samsung, preinstall a government-operated security application called ‘Sanchar Saathi’ on devices sold in the country. This requirement provides companies with a 90-day period to comply, during which they must incorporate the app into their operating systems.

The Sanchar Saathi app aims to improve user safety by enabling users to report lost or stolen phones and facilitating requests to block the device’s IMEI number. Furthermore, it offers a way for individuals to report fraudulent or scam calls. The government’s goal with this initiative is to counteract crime, especially since criminals frequently clone or spoof IMEI numbers from stolen devices.

Nevertheless, Apple has shown its intent to oppose this mandate. Reports suggest that the company intends to inform the Indian government of its stance against adhering to such orders in any market, highlighting concerns over security and privacy risks tied to preinstalled, non-removable applications. This position is notable, as it signifies Apple’s readiness to contest the directive instead of merely complying.

The debate surrounding the Sanchar Saathi app has also drawn political scrutiny, with the main opposition party deeming the mandate unconstitutional. This adds a layer of complexity to the scenario, as the government attempts to balance enhancing security measures with addressing concerns related to user privacy and rights.

As the compliance deadline draws near, the ramifications of this situation remain unclear. Apple’s resistance may prompt further discussions with the Indian government, and the effects of this mandate could establish a precedent for how technology companies engage with governmental regulations in the future.

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Inexpensive $50 Case Changes M4 Mac Mini Look to Mirror Mac Pro

### Upgrade Your M4 Mac Mini with the Ulanzi QT01 Case

In today’s Apple product ecosystem, selecting a Mac Pro may not be the most practical option. The Mac Studio delivers better performance at a much more affordable price. Nonetheless, for individuals who still appreciate the Mac Pro look, the Ulanzi QT01 Mac Mini Case offers an attractive substitute. With a price tag of approximately $50, this case enables your M4 Mac Mini to take on the appearance of a compact Mac Pro while delivering functional advantages.

#### Visual Attraction and Practicality

The Ulanzi QT01 Mac Mini Case has received recognition for its design, mimicking the recognizable cheese-grater facade of the Mac Pro. It includes rear-facing ports and diminutive feet, although it noticeably does not have wheels. Constructed from durable aluminum, it provides a premium touch that elevates the overall appearance of your setup. The magnetic front plate is a clever feature, facilitating convenient access to front-facing USB-C ports without requiring the removal of the entire case.

#### Feedback and Insights from Users

Users have shared their contentment with the Ulanzi QT01, noting its capability to conserve desk space and enhance airflow around the Mac Mini. Many find the power button’s accessibility convenient, negating the need to lift the Mac Mini to power it down. Reviews highlight the case’s robust build and chic design, with one user commenting, “The quality and craftsmanship of this case was astonishingly good. I anticipated something somewhat cheap yet decent. This was far better than I anticipated.”

Another user pointed out the case’s usefulness for home server configurations, mentioning that it positions the device vertically, which is perfect for cabinet storage. In summary, the Ulanzi QT01 has received acclaim for its fusion of style and practicality, making it a valuable investment for M4 Mac Mini users.

#### Where to Purchase

The Ulanzi QT01 Mac Mini Case can be acquired from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/441a0zW). If you haven’t yet purchased an M4 Mac Mini, it’s available at Apple’s

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Substantial Savings on iPad, iPad Air, and Additional Items Offered for Cyber Monday Beginning at $274

### Cyber Monday Offers on Apple iPads: An In-Depth Review

The eagerly awaited Cyber Monday offers for Apple’s complete range of iPads have officially launched, showcasing substantial savings on a variety of models. Whether you need a device for streaming your preferred shows or a robust tablet for work, there’s an iPad suited for everyone. This piece emphasizes the top Cyber Monday deals on the standard iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini, and iPad Pro.

#### iPad Air: The Optimal All-Purpose Selection

For the majority of users, the **M3 iPad Air** is still the premier selection in the iPad range. It achieves an excellent equilibrium between performance and cost, making it perfect for those desiring an M series Apple tablet without the high expense of the M5 Pro variant. This Cyber Monday, every model of the iPad Air has a price cut of **$150 off**, presenting an appealing choice for those seeking capability without overspending.

#### Base iPad: Ideal for Casual Usage

Apple’s latest **base iPad** comes with an 11-inch display and caters to casual users. It’s a flexible gadget that the entire family can relish, making it fitting for both adults and kids. This version is currently priced at under **$280 shipped**, offering a budget-conscious option for anyone needing a dependable tablet without the sophisticated features of more premium models.

#### iPad Mini: Small and Cute

The **iPad mini 7** represents Apple’s most portable tablet, perfect for those who value mobility. Although it targets a specific segment, it provides an excellent price-to-performance balance. This model is also being sold at a discount of **$150 for Cyber Monday**, making it the most economical current-generation iPad capable of utilizing Apple Intelligence capabilities.

#### iPad Pro: The Ultimate Power Device

For those in search of the most formidable tablet on the market, the **2025 iPad Pro** with the M5 chip stands as the crown jewel of Apple’s line. Although it requires a significant financial commitment, it is built for users aiming to substitute a conventional laptop with a tablet. The iPad Pro models are currently priced **$100 less**, starting at the following rates:

– **13-inch M5 iPad Pro 256GB**: $1,199 (Regular Price $1,299)
– **13-inch M5 iPad Pro 512GB**: $1,399 (Regular Price $1,499)
– **13-inch M5 iPad Pro 1TB**: $1,769 (Regular Price $1,899)
– **13-inch M5 iPad Pro nano-texture 1TB**: $1,899 (Regular Price $1,999)
– **13-inch M5 iPad Pro 2TB**: $2,142 (Regular Price $2,299)

#### Accessories to Elevate Your iPad Experience

To enhance your iPad Pro, think about the **Magic Keyboard**, which converts your tablet into a full-fledged computer, simplifying typing and administrative tasks. Moreover, the **Apple Pencil** is a must-have accessory for improving your iPad experience. Presently, the premier Apple Pencil Pro is priced under **$99**, while the latest Apple Pencil (USB-C) is at a record low of **$49**.

#### Summary

This Cyber Monday offers an outstanding chance to acquire an iPad at a discounted rate, regardless of whether you’re in search of a casual device or a high-performance tablet. With reductions throughout the entire lineup, now is the ideal moment to invest in an Apple iPad that meets your requirements. For continuous updates on the finest Apple Cyber Monday deals, make sure to explore dedicated lists and summaries.

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Key Obstacles Confronting Apple’s New AI Leader from the Start

Amar Subramanya is poised to become one of the most scrutinized appointments Apple has made in recent years. Here’s his initial course of action.

### Apple’s Newly Appointed VP of AI Brings Some Relevant Background

After John Giannandrea’s retirement announcement, Apple announced that Amar Subramanya would join the firm following under six months as the Corporate Vice President of AI at the recently established Microsoft AI division. Prior to this, he dedicated 16 years at Google, starting as a Staff Research Scientist and advancing to Principal Engineer, ultimately being appointed Vice President of Engineering in 2019. He also contributed to two prominent publications related to high-profile releases: Gemini in December 2023 and Imagen 3 in August 2024.

Interestingly, Google has faced a similar challenge in recent years as Apple. Like many in the industry, Google fell behind when ChatGPT was launched and hurriedly sought to find its footing, which was particularly challenging for them as Google was the creator of the Transformer architecture (the T in GPT). However, as anyone closely following the AI domain can attest, Google is undeniably back and competitively challenging OpenAI. Following the latest Gemini model release, OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman warned his team to brace for some “rough vibes” and “temporary economic headwinds,” meaning: “they have caught up to us, this situation is persistent, and investors recognize it too.”

Google’s journey toward not-quite-AGI-but-near-equivalent intelligence compared to OpenAI was filled with hurdles. Remember when Bard was the company’s projection for AI’s future? Fond memories. It took them almost three years (close to the exact date of ChatGPT’s launch) to implement a significant course correction, yet they accomplished it. While it’s too soon to determine if they can consistently outperform OpenAI, that isn’t even the crux of the matter. The crucial point is that they not only possess a state-of-the-art model but also have every Google-owned platform available for deployment, a resource unmatched by others. And even though Subramanya departed Google in June, he was evidently heavily involved in the majority of the development of these new Gemini models during his time as the company’s VP of Engineering.

### And What Is On Apple’s Agenda?

From the outset, Subramanya will undoubtedly encounter significant expectations to rectify the perceived missteps of his predecessor. On the positive side, this provides him a degree of goodwill and, to some extent, some time to first organize the situation and then to rectify it. However, he faces a tough challenge ahead with a severely understaffed team at an all-time low morale. While it’s impossible to predict definitively from the outside, it seems reasonable to conclude that he will need to quickly bring in additional talent if he hopes to recover from the constant series of setbacks Apple has endured, especially in the last year.

The encouraging news is that with new leadership in position and all the elements of a somewhat fresh start, Apple may be able to draw in talent that, until very recently, viewed a career in machine learning at the company as lacking promise. Some of these individuals may very well be former colleagues of Subramanya. Moreover, there’s the external expectation, which isn’t entirely his responsibility. His role is to enhance Apple’s underlying AI technology, while marketing and product teams will dictate how to convey that narrative. Nonetheless, that narrative will solely depend on what he can genuinely achieve, carefully balancing the need to act swiftly to demonstrate his value while ensuring that Apple can genuinely fulfill its AI aspirations, even if it entails initiating parts of its work from the ground up.

Lastly, there’s the long-term perspective. While rebuilding trust (both internally and externally) will form the bulk of his initiatives, this will merely be the starting point. In recent years, we’ve become accustomed to considering Apple’s role in machine learning as merely catching up to its rivals. However, that’s not the entire picture. The responsibility of any company aiming for significant advancements in AI is to cultivate an ecosystem where research and application can mutually enhance one another, which, ironically, is what John Giannandrea sought to establish prior to ChatGPT revolutionizing the industry.

While it might seem unjust that, despite his substantial contributions, Giannandrea will likely be remembered as the individual who faltered in AI at Apple, his tenure should also act as a cautionary lesson for Subramanya: repairing what is currently broken is just one aspect of the role. Equally vital will be laying the groundwork for the technological advancements of the coming decades that will not

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iOS 26 Brings Five Fresh Features for Group Messaging in the Messages Application

# iOS 26: New Group Chat Enhancements in the Messages App

iOS 26 brings a plethora of improvements for iPhone users, especially within the Messages app, now featuring five groundbreaking group chat capabilities. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the new additions.

## 1. Typing Notifications

Typing notifications have been a fundamental element of iMessage for individual chats, and with iOS 26, this functionality is now applicable to group conversations. Users can observe when others are typing in the group, enriching the interaction experience and allowing for more dynamic dialogues.

## 2. Surveys

Collecting feedback from a group has never been simpler with the new Surveys feature. Available through the ‘+’ icon in the bottom-left corner of the Messages app, users can generate surveys to quickly gauge availability, preferences, or any other questions. For those with Apple Intelligence, recommended surveys might even appear above the keyboard, further facilitating the process.

## 3. Apple Cash for Groups

Once restricted to individual chats, Apple Cash now accommodates group conversations in iOS 26. This feature makes it easier to send and request funds among group members, ideal for dividing costs after outings or shared experiences. Users can handle transactions effortlessly within the Messages app.

## 4. Custom Backgrounds

To personalize group chats, iOS 26 introduces the ability to choose custom backgrounds. By clicking the group icon at the top of the chat, users can enter the Backgrounds section, where they can select from default options or upload personal images. This feature creates a more visually stimulating chat atmosphere, with the chosen background visible to all group participants.

## 5. Adding Contacts from Group Chats

iOS 26 simplifies contact management within group conversations. Users can now quickly include unknown numbers in their personal contacts by tapping the group icon and viewing the participant list. An ‘Add to Contacts’ button will display next to unsaved numbers, streamlining the process of connecting with new contacts.

With these new capabilities, iOS 26 enriches the group chat experience in the Messages app, enhancing communication to be more interactive, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing. Which of these enhancements do you find the most valuable?

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