Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Discover and Disseminate Your Apple Music Replay 2025 Customized Listening Summary

### Apple Music Replay 2025: A Year in Summary for Subscribers

Apple Music subscribers can now immerse themselves in their customized year in music with the introduction of Apple Music Replay 2025. This yearly feature provides a detailed overview of listening patterns, highlighting the distinctive musical journey each user has experienced in the last year.

#### Main Features of Apple Music Replay 2025

Apple Music Replay is well-regarded for its captivating insights, which include:

– **Total Listening Duration**: Find out how many minutes you dedicated to music over the year.
– **Leading Artists**: Discover which artists were the most prominent in your playlists.
– **Preferred Genres**: Investigate the genres that resonated deeply with you.
– **Longest Artist Streak**: Identify which artist was your most continuously listened-to over time.

In addition to these highlights, Apple Music Replay 2025 rolls out three new features:

1. **Discovery**: Showcases new artists that captured the interest of listeners throughout the year.
2. **Loyalty**: Spotlights artists that users have consistently returned to annually.
3. **Comebacks**: Highlights artists who made a significant return to playlists.

#### Ongoing Updates and Accessibility

Apple Music Replay playlists receive updates throughout the year, but the release in December is especially thrilling for users who love to share their musical experiences with friends and family. Subscribers can access their Replay insights directly from the Home tab within the Apple Music app.

#### Insights for Musicians

Simultaneously, Apple Music has refreshed Replay 2025 for Artists, offering musicians and their teams valuable analytics, which include:

– Overall listener and engagement statistics.
– Geographic information regarding where listeners are tuning in from.
– Insights into the most streamed songs and Shazam mentions.
– Data on radio plays, chart positions, and playlist placements.

This year, the artist version also features metrics on listener growth and year-over-year performance summaries.

#### The Replay Gallery at Miami Art Week

To mark the debut of Replay 2025, Apple Music is presenting The Replay Gallery at Miami Art Week. This exhibition displays multi-format artwork inspired by the year’s pivotal musical moments, created by prominent artists such as Angel Otero, Calida Rawles, and Jeremy Deller. The gallery seeks to connect digital and human experiences, inviting visitors to explore themes of listening, reflection, and connection.

#### Subscription Details

Apple Music is priced at $10.99 for individuals, $16.99 for families, and is included in the Apple One bundle. Subscribers can access their Apple Music Replay insights starting today.

For additional information, visit

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Apple Music Unveils the Year’s Top 5 Most Frequently Played Tracks Along with Extra Insights

### Apple Music Replay 2025: A Year in Review

Apple Music has officially rolled out its yearly recap for 2025, giving users a tailored overview of their listening habits from the past twelve months. This edition not only emphasizes unique listening behaviors but also presents the most played tracks globally, offering a glimpse into the musical trends that characterized the year.

#### Global Top Songs of 2025

As part of the Apple Music Replay 2025 announcement, Apple has revealed the top five most adored songs on its platform worldwide:

1. **ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.”**
2. **Kendrick Lamar & SZA – “luther”**
3. **Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With A Smile”**
4. **Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”**
5. **Billie Eilish – “BIRDS OF A FEATHER”**

For those keen on further exploration, a full list of the top 100 tracks is available in a dedicated playlist on Apple Music.

#### Understanding the Charts

Apple’s year-end charts monitor plays from November 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025. This timeframe means songs released late in the year, such as Taylor Swift’s “The Life of a Showgirl,” had a limited opportunity to gather plays.

Alongside the global top songs, Apple Music has compiled top 100 playlists for different regions, including the USA, as well as popular Shazam tracks and the most searched lyrics of the year.

#### Notable Highlights from 2025

Apple Music also reported some intriguing statistics from the year:

– **KPop Demon Hunters**’s song “Golden” achieved an impressive milestone by holding the #1 spot on the Daily Top 100 for 70 consecutive days, setting the record for the longest run in the top position.
– **Morgan Wallen** made a significant mark with 12 tracks in the Top 100, more than any other artist, with “I’m The Problem” landing at #18 overall and #4 on the USA charts.

#### Subscription Information

Apple Music is priced at $10.99 each month for individual users, with options to include it as part of the Apple One subscription package.

#### Conclusion

The launch of Apple Music Replay 2025 not only enables users to contemplate their personal music journeys but also underscores the wider trends influencing the music landscape. Whether the top tunes of the year match your preferences or surprise you, Apple Music remains a significant force in the streaming sector.

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Apple Lowers Security Bounty Incentives Due to Escalating Mac Malware Risks

### Apple Security Bounties Reduced: Consequences for macOS Vulnerability Reporting

A recent article from a well-known security researcher has drawn attention to a marked decrease in Apple’s bounties for identifying vulnerabilities in macOS. Numerous bounties have been halved, with certain rewards, such as those for full Transparency, Consent, and Control (TCC) bypasses, dropping from over $30,000 to merely $5,000. This action occurs amid a noticeable increase in malware aimed at Mac users.

#### Summary of the Adjustments

Csaba Fitzl, a leading macOS security researcher at Iru, has expressed concerns about Apple’s dedication to macOS security. He proposes that the lowered bounty amounts reflect Apple’s diminished regard for the security of their platform. Fitzl’s remarks, made on LinkedIn, highlight that individual TCC category bounties have also seen a significant decline, shrinking from between $5,000 to $10,000 to as little as $1,000.

This drop prompts inquiries about Apple’s priorities, especially considering the company’s public position on privacy and security. Fitzl’s insights suggest that these modifications might result in fewer security researchers concentrating on macOS, as the financial motivations to report vulnerabilities fade.

#### Comprehending TCC and Its Significance

The Transparency, Consent, and Control (TCC) framework is essential for protecting user privacy on macOS. It guarantees that applications can only access sensitive personal information with the user’s explicit consent. A complete TCC bypass would enable malicious programs to obtain private data without authorization, representing a serious danger to users.

TCC safeguards several sensitive domains, including:
– User files and directories
– Contents of Apple applications, like Contacts, Calendars, and Health
– Access to webcams, microphones, and screen recording functions

In the past, severe vulnerabilities within the TCC framework have been uncovered, involving techniques that allow attackers to manipulate the consent database or take advantage of permissions assigned to legitimate applications.

#### The Danger of Black Market Exploits

Fitzl’s worries encompass the potential ramifications of these lowered bounties. With fewer researchers motivated to report vulnerabilities, there is a heightened chance that those who find exploits might opt to sell them on the black market rather than inform Apple. This transition could amplify security threats for macOS users, particularly as malware targeting the platform continues to escalate.

#### Final Thoughts

The choice to reduce security bounties raises substantial issues regarding Apple’s commitment to macOS security and user privacy. As the landscape of malware dangers shifts, it remains uncertain how these modifications will influence the overall security of the macOS platform. The decline in financial incentives for security researchers might result in a drop in vulnerability reporting, potentially leaving users more susceptible to attacks. Apple has yet to address these concerns, and further updates will be carefully observed.

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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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