Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Official Apple Merchandise Showcases Vintage Designs for WWDC 2025 Exclusive Edition Launch

### Apple Introduces Exclusive Merchandise for WWDC 2025

As excitement grows for the forthcoming iOS makeover, Apple is also honoring its legacy with a nostalgic touch in its newest exclusive merchandise. To celebrate WWDC 2025, the Apple Park store is presenting a range of clothing featuring the renowned rainbow Apple logo and the timeless Garamond typeface, stirring feelings of nostalgia among fans and collectors similarly.

#### A Tribute to the Past

The merchandise consists of t-shirts and hoodies embellished with Apple’s original rainbow emblem, a design that has become emblematic of the brand’s narrative. Offered in both black and white, these items accentuate the vivid hues of the logo, making them eye-catching. Furthermore, the incorporation of the Apple Garamond font lends an additional layer of appeal, attracting not just Apple aficionados but also those who value typography.

#### Exclusive Availability

The Apple Park store has a cherished history of providing distinctive Apple-branded attire and memorabilia, particularly during WWDC. This year’s limited-edition products are available solely at the Apple Park venue, rendering them essential for attendees and visitors. Considering the popularity of such items, it’s probable that resellers will soon emerge on platforms like eBay, eager to seize the opportunity.

#### Visual Appeal

CNET has gathered visuals highlighting this year’s collection, which showcase impressive designs that honor Apple’s legacy. The mix of contemporary apparel styles with vintage branding creates a distinctive blend that resonates with both loyal fans and new patrons.

#### Conclusion

For those wishing to commemorate WWDC 2025 with a piece of Apple heritage, the limited-edition merchandise at Apple Park offers an ideal chance. With its combination of nostalgia and modern fashion, these items are bound to be treasured by collectors and Apple enthusiasts alike.

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Apple Might Bring Back a Product That Was Discontinued: Here’s the Procedure Involved

In 2020, Apple astonished many by making a comeback in the small smartphone realm with the iPhone 12 mini, a device that incorporated the same technology as the iPhone 12 into a sleek 5.4-inch design. Despite its groundbreaking initiative, the iPhone mini had a brief market presence, only lasting two years with the debut of the iPhone 13 mini before it was supplanted by the larger iPhone 14 Plus.

The iPhone mini targeted a specific segment of users who favored smaller phones, a preference that Apple had previously recognized with the inaugural iPhone SE in 2016. Nonetheless, the iPhone mini faced challenges in gaining popularity, mainly because of its pricing. At $699, many buyers chose the larger alternatives that provided superior battery longevity for just an additional $100. This sensitivity to pricing likely played a role in the differing levels of success between the iPhone mini and the original iPhone SE.

In early 2023, Apple launched the iPhone 16e, a 6.1-inch gadget offered at $599, which ignited conversations about the possibility of a new iPhone mini within the ‘e’ series. A speculative iPhone 16e mini priced at $499 could attract consumers in search of a compact phone without the premium associated with larger models. The ongoing research and development for the mini design might ease the process of re-entering the market.

Moreover, reports indicate that Apple could implement a staggered launch schedule beginning in 2026, potentially providing better opportunities for a forthcoming iPhone 18e mini. This approach could boost awareness and interest in a smaller device, rendering it a more feasible choice for consumers.

While the chance of a new iPhone mini is still unclear, the appetite for compact smartphones remains strong. For those looking for smaller devices, refurbished iPhone 13 mini models are obtainable at reasonable prices, presenting an appealing option for consumers who prefer a more compact form.

In summary, Apple has the chance to once again cater to the small smartphone market, particularly as standard iPhones continue to expand in size. The possible return of the iPhone mini could serve a devoted customer base, making it a compelling addition to the iPhone family.

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Three Possible Benefits of Apple’s Alleged AI Smart Glasses Compared to Meta Ray-Bans

Apple is said to be unveiling its own AI smart glasses next year, based on a recent Bloomberg article. Although Apple is stepping into the arena after its rivals, there are several possible benefits the company might deliver with its new offering.

The forthcoming AI smart glasses are anticipated to include cameras, microphones, and speakers, akin to Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses. These glasses will connect with Siri, feature Visual Intelligence capabilities, facilitate phone calls, play music, translate conversations, and provide turn-by-turn navigation. Furthermore, Apple is working on custom silicon to boost the performance of these smart glasses.

Three main feature propositions could elevate Apple’s product beyond the current market options:

1. **In-Depth Integration with Siri**: Unlike Meta’s AI, which lacks personalized comprehension, Apple’s glasses could take advantage of a more sophisticated version of Siri that grasps user context. This would facilitate smooth interactions without the need to reach for an iPhone.

2. **Superior Camera Quality**: While size limitations persist, enhancing camera quality is crucial. Current models, like Meta’s Ray-Bans, have faced criticism for delivering soft and unrealistic image quality. Apple could significantly improve this feature.

3. **Enhanced Notification Management**: While Meta’s glasses provide restricted notification handling on Android, Apple could design a more cohesive experience. Synchronizing with the iPhone’s Focus mode would enable users to receive notifications solely from chosen apps, improving the functionality of the glasses.

With these attributes, Apple AI smart glasses could turn into an attractive offering, particularly for iPhone owners. The synergy with existing Apple devices may deliver considerable value, assuming the pricing is kept reasonable.

Meanwhile, Meta Ray-Bans can be found at a reduced price, making them an appealing choice for those interested in smart glasses.

What are your views on the possibilities of Apple AI smart glasses?

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Father’s Day Gift Guide: Five Best Apple Products for Dad

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re thinking about an Apple present for your dad this year, there are numerous fantastic choices that are wallet-friendly. Even though it’s not Black Friday, there are still remarkable offers available that include Prime delivery, guaranteeing prompt arrival.

### AirPods Pro 2

[AirPods Pro 2](https://amzn.to/4jDvt6U) are a premium selection. With a battery life of 6 hours, outstanding active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and remarkable sound quality, they are among the finest headphones on the market. If your dad hasn’t switched to wireless earbuds or is using an older model, the AirPods Pro 2 are a considerable enhancement.

For a more budget-conscious alternative, consider [AirPods 4 for $99](https://amzn.to/3SGLOwM).

### Powerbeats Pro 2

For the sporty dad, [Powerbeats Pro 2](https://amzn.to/4jJdNa2) are an ideal choice. Released earlier this year, these headphones are available in four lively colors, boast impressive battery life, and feature a heart rate monitor. They also ensure smooth iOS integration and a secure ear hook design that prevents them from slipping out during exercise.

Alternatively, you might want to check out [Beats Solo Buds](https://amzn.to/4dUdNmq) or [Beats Studio Buds+](https://amzn.to/4kzKA2F) for more affordable Beats alternatives.

### AirTag

To assist your dad in keeping track of his items, [AirTags](https://amzn.to/4kWzvIJ) are a useful gift. With a new model expected to launch soon, the current-generation AirTags are available at substantial discounts. They leverage Apple’s extensive Find My network to help locate misplaced items, and with Precision Finding, you can identify the exact location of an item when you are nearby. Usually priced at $29 each, a 4-pack is being offered for just under $19 each during this promotion.

For extra convenience, consider [Belkin’s key rings](https://amzn.to/45f6uTY) for the AirTags, or [Elevation Lab’s custom battery](https://amzn.to/3SFYB2w) for a 10-year battery life.

### iPad 11

The [iPad 11](https://amzn.to/4l1kZ2x) stands out as one of the most affordable tablets on the market. It comes with a minimum of 128GB of storage, an A16 chip, a gorgeous Liquid Retina display, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera with Center Stage. It charges through USB-C and is available in four attractive colors. Although it ranks among the pricier options on this list, it’s currently discounted to $299, down from its typical price of $349.

### Apple Watch Series 10

The Apple Watch serves as a versatile gift for any dad, whether he wishes to track his health, manage notifications, or partly substitute his phone with a cellular variant. The [Apple Watch Series 10](https://amzn.to/4mTkppc) boasts a new, slimmer design and comes in a chic Jet Black hue. It features health functionalities like an ECG scanner and heart rate monitoring. However, it currently doesn’t offer blood oxygen detection in the US due to a patent conflict.

For a more economical choice, look into the

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Apple Unveils Initial Teaser for ‘The Lost Bus’ Starring Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera

Apple TV+ has just unveiled the initial teaser trailer for *The Lost Bus*, its forthcoming survival thriller featuring Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera. Directed by Paul Greengrass, the film is drawn from the true story of a school bus driver and teacher who played a crucial role in rescuing a group of children during California’s catastrophic 2018 Camp Fire.

Apple characterizes the film as a “heart-pounding journey through one of America’s most lethal wildfires.” The narrative is adapted from *Paradise: One Town’s Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire* authored by Lizzie Johnson, who additionally serves as an executive producer. Greengrass collaborated with Brad Ingelsby on the screenplay, highlighting the theme of quiet bravery and community solidarity in times of crisis.

The film is produced by Ingelsby, Gregory Goodman, and Jason Blum, with Jamie Lee Curtis also participating through her Comet Pictures production company. This signifies McConaughey’s comeback to live-action after a six-year hiatus, joined by a cast that includes Yul Vazquez, Ashlie Atkinson, and Spencer Watson.

*The Lost Bus* is scheduled to debut in select theaters and on Apple TV+ this fall. Apple TV+ is offered at a rate of $9.99 per month and showcases a diverse range of popular shows and films.

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iOS 26 Brings Three Significant Enhancements to Siri: Important Features Unveiled

Siri has been experiencing chaos, but improvements are on the horizon. Apple’s assistant is now under new management that is implementing significant changes, and reports suggest that we can expect substantial Siri enhancements this fall with iOS 26. Here’s what lies ahead.

## #1: Tailored Siri assistance in iOS 26

One of iOS 26’s potential advantages for Siri over its AI rivals is its understanding of you and your personal information. As part of Apple’s ecosystem, Siri has the ability to access your other Apple data in a manner that respects your privacy. In iOS 26, this will allow it to offer assistance customized to your personal life.

Apple provides two compelling examples:
– A user might say, “Play that podcast Jamie suggested,” and Siri will find and play the episode, sparing the user from recalling whether it was noted in a text message or an email.
– They could inquire, “When is Mom’s flight arriving?” and Siri will retrieve the flight information and cross-check it with real-time tracking to provide an arrival time.

The potential for Siri’s utility to expand like never before in iOS 26 with these new capabilities is substantial.

## #2: True hands-free functionality with Siri

For quite some time, it seems Siri’s range of supported actions has remained quite static. The assistant is adequate for simple tasks like setting timers, reminders, or playing music, but real hands-free functionality has largely remained a distant aspiration.

That will change dramatically with iOS 26, as it introduces hundreds of new actions—including multi-app requests. Siri’s enhanced ability to perform a wider range of tasks is impressive. However, the multi-app feature appears particularly attractive.

For instance, you will be able to say, “Add the photos from this morning to my Birding note,” and Siri will handle it. No need to open the Photos app or Notes; just utter the command, and it’s accomplished.

## #3: Onscreen awareness

Years ago, Siri incorporated support for a very limited set of onscreen-related functions. For instance, presently in iOS 18, you can say, “Remind me about this” while viewing an email, and Siri will set a reminder with a link to the message.

However, genuine onscreen awareness has never been part of Siri’s skill set—not until iOS 26. With the upcoming upgrades, Siri will gain an understanding of specific content displayed on your screen, allowing you to reference it naturally as you would with a human assistant.

Apple clarifies:
> With onscreen awareness, Siri will be able to comprehend and act on users’ content in more applications over time. For instance, if a friend messages a user their new address, the recipient can say, “Add this address to his contact card.”

This feature should be beneficial on the iPhone, but it could be particularly crucial on Vision Pro when this capability becomes available.

## Siri’s iOS 26 upgrades: conclusion

It’s become unmistakably clear that Apple should never have unveiled the aforementioned three features at WWDC last year. They weren’t remotely ready. However, with Siri’s new leadership, it seems these upgrades will finally launch this fall with iOS 26. If Apple can realize the vast potential of these features, Siri should operate significantly more intelligently than it ever has.

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Tim Cook Pays Tribute to Iconic Apple Engineer Bill Atkinson

# Honoring Bill Atkinson: A Pioneer of Apple’s Heritage

Apple CEO Tim Cook has publicly commemorated the legacy of Bill Atkinson, a crucial figure in Apple’s journey, following his passing on June 5 at the age of 74 after fighting pancreatic cancer. Cook shared his sympathies and respect through a touching message on social media, highlighting Atkinson’s innovative contributions to the company.

## A Salute from Tim Cook

In a post on X, Tim Cook remarked, “We are profoundly saddened by the loss of Bill Atkinson. He was a true visionary whose imagination, compassion, and groundbreaking efforts on the Mac will eternally inspire us. Our thoughts are with his family.” This accolade mirrors the significant influence Atkinson had on Apple and the technology sector at large.

## The Heritage of a Programming Innovator

Bill Atkinson was not merely an outstanding programmer but also a creative dynamo behind several of Apple’s most legendary inventions. As a key member of the original Macintosh team, Atkinson played a vital role in creating MacPaint and the QuickDraw graphics library while also innovating HyperCard. His contributions have shaped innumerable aspects of user interface design, from the ease of clicking a link to the visual charm of rounded rectangles.

Joining Apple in 1978 as employee #51, Atkinson swiftly became one of Steve Jobs’ most reliable partners. His meticulous attention to detail and belief that technology should mirror the real world were pivotal in defining the Macintosh’s design philosophy. A memorable story from his career captures this: when Jobs required QuickDraw to accommodate rounded rectangles, he famously took Atkinson on a walk around the block to help him see their ubiquity in everyday life.

## Recognition from the Tech Sphere

The technology community has honored Atkinson’s contributions with immense respect. Steven Levy of *Wired* wrote a touching tribute, emphasizing Atkinson’s role in crafting Apple’s story. John Gruber, a well-known tech analyst, noted, “I say this with no exaggeration: Bill Atkinson might very well have been the greatest computer programmer of all time. Undoubtedly, he’s on the short list. What a man, what a mind, what remarkable gifts he bestowed upon the world.” Such commendations highlight the substantial impact Atkinson made on both Apple and the wider technology arena.

## A Reminder to Reflect

As the tech universe contemplates Atkinson’s legacy, it serves as a reminder of the significance of innovation and creativity in technology. For those who may not be aware of Atkinson’s contributions and the early history of Apple, now is an ideal moment to delve into this rich past, particularly with upcoming events such as the WWDC keynote.

Bill Atkinson’s legacy is not merely a segment in Apple’s narrative; it is a testament to the strength of creativity and vision in shaping the future of technology. His contributions continue to motivate and influence generations of programmers, designers, and technology enthusiasts worldwide.

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Apple’s Yearly ‘Back to School’ Campaign Anticipated to Begin on June 17 in the U.S.

Apple is gearing up to roll out its yearly back-to-school promotion in the U.S. and likely Canada next week, as per Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This promotion is a much-awaited occasion for students, parents, and educators aiming to acquire new devices for the coming school year.

### Excellent Chance to Accumulate Savings

For those who have been holding off on purchasing a new Mac or iPad, the wait is nearly over. According to Gurman’s Power On newsletter, this year’s initiative is slated to commence on June 17, adhering to a consistent trend Apple has followed in previous years.

In past promotions, Apple has provided complimentary accessories like AirPods or Apple Pencil in certain countries. However, the U.S. promotion generally emphasizes offering gift cards with the acquisition of eligible devices, along with standard educational discounts. Last year, Apple offered gift cards worth up to $150 with Mac purchases and up to $100 with iPads, indicating similar incentives may be expected this year.

The back-to-school offer is typically accessible through Apple’s Education Store, both online and at physical locations, and generally lasts until the end of September, with occasional extensions into early October. Prospective buyers can verify their eligibility for the promotion via the Apple website.

### Top iPad and Mac Offers Currently Available on Amazon

While anticipating the back-to-school promotion, here are some ongoing deals on iPads and Macs available on Amazon:

– [11th-gen iPad, 128GB, Wi-Fi, Blue](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-iPad-11-inch-Display-All-Day/dp/B0DZ75TN5F/?tag=marcmendes-20): 14% off at $299
– [11th-gen iPad, 128GB, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Pink](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-iPad-11-inch-Display-Cellular/dp/B0DZ75CLXB/?tag=marcmendes-20): 10% off at $449
– [iPad Air 13-inch 128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-13-inch-Intelligence-Display-All-Day/dp/B0DZ76QBLQ/?tag=marcmendes-20): 13% off at $699
– [iPad Pro 11-inch 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Black](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-iPad-Pro-11-Inch-Intelligence/dp/B0D3J9XDMQ/?tag=marcmendes-20): 15% off at $849
– [MacBook Air 13-inch, M4, 16GB/256GB, Sky Blue](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-2025-MacBook-13-inch-Laptop/dp/B0DZDC3WW5/?tag=marcmendes-20): 15% off at $849

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Essential Feature Improves Usability of the Renpho Lynx Smart Ring [In-Depth Assessment]

# Renpho Lynx Smart Ring: An In-Depth Analysis

I have now experienced four distinct smart rings from different brands, and the latest Renpho Lynx smart ring stands out from the crowd. It fulfills all the essential functions expected from a smart ring, including sleep tracking and comprehensive health monitoring, while also maintaining a subtle look. Most crucially, it doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. After using the Lynx smart ring for a few weeks, here’s everything you should know and why it might be worth your consideration.

## Complete Specification Overview

Before diving into the analysis, let’s review the specifications.

– **Colors**: Titanium Silver and Carbon Black
– **Size Range**: 6 to 13 (I wear a size 10)
– **Weight**: 4 to 5 grams depending on size
– **Water Resistance**: Waterproof up to 50 meters
– **Compatibility**: Compatible with iOS and Android
– **Battery Life**: Up to 12 days of usage and an additional 7 days with the charging case
– **Tracks**:
– Heart rate & heart rate variability
– SpO₂ (blood oxygen)
– Stress levels
– Sleep phases and score
– Activity monitoring for walking, running, hiking, and swimming

The Lynx smart ring has numerous features, but one specification distinguishes it from others.

## Hardware & Application Experience

The design of the Lynx Smart Ring, which I own in carbon black, is unexpectedly sleek. I usually don’t wear rings aside from my wedding band, but this ring has a matte and minimalist finish with a slim glossy strip that adds flair without being flashy. The internal sensors slightly protrude into your finger for enhanced accuracy, which I initially found uncomfortable, but I soon got used to it.

### The Charging Case & Battery

The battery life is the standout feature for me. The ring claims to offer 12 days of continuous use. While I have not hit that exact figure, I consistently achieve 9-10 days of usage. Furthermore, the AirPods-like carrying case provides an extra 7 days of charge. This is a major advancement over other smart rings, which frequently require charging every 3 to 4 days. The extended battery life makes the ring practical and easy to recommend.

### The App

The Lynx Ring is integrated into the Renpho ecosystem, which I already know from using Renpho scales. The app is intuitive and syncs effortlessly with the ring. However, it does not sync in the background, so you’ll need to open the app to check your data. The app offers insights such as:

– Overall health score out of 100
– Activity statistics
– Sleep score and details
– Heart rate and HRV
– SpO₂ (blood oxygen)
– Stress levels

One feature that would be beneficial is a push notification for low battery levels, as the only method to check the battery status is through the app.

## My Experience & Usage

I primarily utilize smart rings for passive health monitoring, concentrating on sleep and recovery, particularly on workout days. The sleep data is surprisingly comprehensive for a sub-$200 ring, detailing sleep cycles, efficiency, and latency. I also keep track of my stress levels throughout the day, which the app illustrates in a timeline format. The ring syncs automatically when I access the app, providing a “set it and forget it” experience.

The remarkable battery life means I seldom think about recharging. I generally place it on the charging case every 5 or 6 days, even though it often retains over 35% battery at that time.

While I do not use the ring for active workouts, especially weight training, it performs well for running. My aim with smart rings is to monitor my health data without the constraints posed by traditional watches.

## Pricing & Availability

The RENPHO Lynx Smart Ring is priced at **$179** on Renpho’s website. You can select between Carbon Black or Titanium Silver finishes, both of which include a battery case and USB-C cable. Importantly, there are no upselling, subscription fees, or in-app purchases; it’s a one-time payment for indefinite use. Additionally, you can request a complimentary sizing kit to ensure a perfect fit.

What are your thoughts on this? Do you own smart rings? Which models have you previously tried? Would you consider giving one a try? Do you think Apple would ever create one? Let’s discuss below!

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“Unveiling ‘Liquid Glass’ UI Components for iPhone OS Revamp”

### Apple’s Anticipated iOS 26: A New Design Era

Tomorrow at 10 AM Pacific Time, Apple is poised to reveal the next-generation iterations of its operating systems, including what is likely to be called iOS 26 for iPhone. This upgrade is set to introduce a substantial visual overhaul spanning all of Apple’s platforms, ensuring a unified aesthetic experience across devices.

#### Liquid Glass User Interface Components

As reported in Mark Gurman’s latest issue of the Power On newsletter, one of the standout features of iOS 26 will be the launch of “Liquid Glass” UI components. This cutting-edge design strategy will integrate translucent, glass-like materials along with visual enhancements such as specular highlights, crafting a more dynamic and attractive interface.

Users can expect these reflective and glass-like materials to be incorporated into standard iPhone UI controls such as buttons, toolbars, and tab bars. This transition towards a more contemporary design is anticipated to enhance the overall user experience.

#### Revamped Home Screen Icons

In addition to the new UI components, there are suggestions that home screen app icons will undergo a redesign. The icons are believed to take on a rounder shape, adorned with shiny reflective highlights along their edges. This redesign seeks to improve the visual allure of the home screen, making it more captivating for users.

#### Uniformity Across Platforms

Apple’s dedication to a cohesive design language will extend beyond iOS 26, as macOS, watchOS, iPadOS, and tvOS will also incorporate the new Liquid Glass UI components and updated icons. Although the overall layouts, navigation, and interactions will stay customized to each device’s form factor, this transformation will promote a more uniform software experience throughout the Apple ecosystem.

#### Harmony with Future Hardware

The new glass-like aesthetics are anticipated to align with the expected hardware redesigns of future iPhone models, including the rumored 2027 version, which is said to feature an all-display design with rounded edges and minimal bezels. This alignment between software and hardware design is likely to elevate the overall visual appeal of Apple devices.

#### Conclusion

Apple will officially announce its significant OS redesign during the WWDC keynote tomorrow. As the tech community eagerly awaits these updates, 9to5Mac will provide live coverage of the event, ensuring users are well-informed about all the new features and improvements Apple has planned. The launch of iOS 26 signifies a major advancement in Apple’s design philosophy, promising a fresh and modern experience for users across all devices.

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