Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

# Apple Maps in iOS 26: Understanding Your Patterns and Providing Proactive Delay Notifications

iOS 26 brought several improvements to Apple Maps, including a function aimed at learning users’ frequent routes and behaviors, potentially helping them avoid unanticipated traffic holdups.

## Understanding Your Patterns

With the release of iOS 26, Apple introduced a fresh feature for Apple Maps that emphasizes grasping users’ daily travel habits. Per Apple’s official site, the feature operates as follows:

> “Maps understands the routes you frequently take and can notify you of major delays, even before you leave. If your routine shifts, iPhone adjusts to it, enabling you to master your commute.”

This indicates that Apple Maps can dispatch push notifications about delays on your regular routes, ensuring you’re aware of potential problems prior to setting off. Moreover, the app can share timely route-related updates via the Maps ‘Suggestions’ widget.

## Activating the New Feature

To take advantage of this new functionality, users must agree through a permission prompt, demonstrating Apple’s dedication to privacy concerning location information. The prompt specifies that:

– Regular routes and anticipated destinations are learned and kept secure on the device.
– Only the applications selected by the user can access this data.
– These data points are not associated with the user’s Apple Account.

To agree, users must click the ‘Continue’ and ‘Allow’ buttons when prompted. If the prompt is overlooked, it can be activated by going to the Settings app, then selecting Apps > Maps > Location, where the option for ‘Preferred Routes & Predicted Destinations’ is available.

## User Experience

As users start to utilize this new feature in Apple Maps, feedback on its functionality and ease of use is encouraged. The proactive nature of the notifications aims to improve commuting experiences by delivering timely information that can aid in avoiding delays.

In conclusion, the new features in Apple Maps with iOS 26 strive to render navigation more intelligent and user-friendly by learning personal travel habits and supplying alerts that can assist users in better planning their travels.

### Steve Jobs in Exile: The Untold Narrative of His Wilderness Period

In the forthcoming book “Steve Jobs in Exile,” author Geoffrey Cain investigates the transformative years leading up to Steve Jobs’ momentous comeback to Apple. Scheduled for release on May 19, this volume aims to illuminate the lesser-known facets of Jobs’ path during his time distant from the tech powerhouse.

#### Reflecting on Steve Jobs’ Legacy

As we celebrate what would have marked Steve Jobs’ 71st birthday and draw near to Apple’s 50th anniversary, the tech world is alive with narratives and tributes honoring Jobs’ immense influence on technology and innovation. Events like the Computer History Museum’s Apple@50 celebration underscore the company’s impact on personal computing, while journalist David Pogue is poised to launch a book detailing Apple’s initial five decades.

#### The Wilderness Era at NeXT

“Steve Jobs in Exile – The Untold Story of Steve Jobs’s Wilderness Years—and the Making of a Legend” centers on the “wilderness years” at NeXT, the enterprise Jobs initiated following his removal from Apple. Cain examines the obstacles Jobs encountered, including “spectacular setbacks, near-bankruptcy, and severe humiliation” during his twelve years away from Apple. These trials ultimately redefined Jobs, allowing him to return and spearhead the creation of groundbreaking products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad, which transformed Apple into the most valuable corporation in the world.

#### Insights and Discoveries

With unique access to unreleased footage of NeXT meetings, confidential company documents, and conversations with Jobs’ closest associates, Cain seeks to present a definitive narrative of how failure can pave the way for success. The book reveals how Jobs mastered leadership, recognized the significance of discipline, and how his considerable failures established the foundation for one of the most remarkable comebacks in business history. This account is framed as a vital missing element in the saga of Steve Jobs.

#### Contributions from Prominent Individuals

The book’s foreword is penned by Dan’l Lewin, cofounder of NeXT and former CEO of the Computer History Museum, while the afterword is provided by Ed Catmull, who co-founded Pixar with Jobs. Their perspectives enrich the narrative, offering context and insight into Jobs’ journey.

#### Availability

“Steve Jobs in Exile” includes previously unpublished content and fresh interviews with significant figures from Jobs’ life and career. The book is currently available for preorder and is scheduled to launch on May 19.

This investigation into Steve Jobs’ wilderness years promises to give readers a new viewpoint on the individual behind one of the most influential enterprises in contemporary history.

## BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor for MacBook: The Ideal Partner for Your Mac

In an exciting partnership, BenQ is offering Apple’s newest MacBook Pro alongside their latest BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor for MacBook. This giveaway marks the debut of BenQ’s MA series of monitors crafted especially for Mac users. The MA series is designed to deliver a seamless experience that complements the MacBook’s display, making it a perfect option for creatives and professionals alike.

### Features of the BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor

The BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor is meticulously designed to closely replicate the color and quality of MacBook displays. A key feature is BenQ’s **Mac Color-Tuning Technology**, which guarantees that colors are displayed accurately, ensuring a uniform visual experience across devices. Furthermore, the monitor is equipped with Mac software that enables users to modify the brightness, automatically synchronizing with other connected displays for a unified setup.

This monitor also acts as a robust hub for Mac users. With a single-cable connection to your MacBook, it provides not only a high-resolution display but also a 90W charging capability for your MacBook. It features two HDMI ports along with an additional USB-C port, facilitating straightforward connections to other Apple devices and peripherals.

### How to Join the Giveaway

For a chance to win the newest MacBook Pro and the BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor, participants are encouraged to submit their name and email address. Each entry must be distinct per email, and participants are urged to subscribe to newsletters from both BenQ and 9to5Mac. To enhance your chances, sharing the giveaway on social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) is advisable.

Submissions for the giveaway are open until March 20, 2026, and are restricted to residents of the United States and Canada. It’s essential to note that no purchase is required to participate, and entrants must be 18 years or older.

### Conclusion

The BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor is more than just a display; it’s a comprehensive solution for Mac users aiming to heighten their productivity and visual experience. With its cutting-edge features and the thrilling chance to win a MacBook Pro, this giveaway perfectly celebrates the harmony between BenQ’s innovative technology and Apple’s premium products. For additional information and to enter the giveaway, visit the official BenQ page.

Apple has officially announced that it will start launching new products beginning on Monday, March 2. This rollout consists of updates to its iPhone, iPad, and Mac ranges, signifying a major upgrade to its hardware offerings by retiring older technology choices.

### All iPhones Will Feature MagSafe for the First Time

Last year, Apple substituted the iPhone SE with the more contemporary iPhone 16e, which notably did not have MagSafe. If the forthcoming iPhone 17e incorporates MagSafe and the iPhone 16e is phased out, it will mean that every iPhone sold by Apple will include MagSafe for the first time. Launched with the iPhone 12 in October 2020, MagSafe allows for a robust magnetic connection on the back of the iPhone, facilitating the attachment of various accessories such as wallets, stands, and battery packs. It also improves wireless charging by ensuring proper coil alignment. Nearly six years later, Apple will be able to showcase MagSafe support as a standard feature across its iPhone lineup.

### Apple Intelligence for Each New iPad

While Apple introduced Apple Intelligence to every iPhone last year, it launched a new iPad without this capability. Nonetheless, there is speculation that the upcoming iPad 12 may come equipped with an A18 chip and Apple Intelligence support. If so, it would mean that every new iPhone, iPad, and Mac, along with the Apple Vision Pro, will support Apple Intelligence for the first time. The addition of features like Image Playground on every iPad, particularly the base model, marks a significant improvement, alongside expected Siri enhancements driven by Google Gemini.

### All Mac Laptops May Also Include MagSafe

Even though Apple has not sold a Mac laptop without MagSafe for several years, the M1 MacBook Air has remained available through retailers like Walmart. This model seems to be out of stock ahead of its anticipated replacement. A new MacBook powered by an A18 Pro chip is expected to join the range, likely priced below the current $999 MacBook Air. It would be atypical for Apple to introduce this new MacBook without MagSafe charging, which would indicate a complete shift away from the no-MagSafe era for all new Mac laptops.

As the rollout commences on Monday morning, followed by a media experience in New York City on Wednesday, March 4, anticipation grows around these updates. The prospect of having MagSafe on every iPhone is particularly significant, while the introduction of a more budget-friendly MacBook also generates interest. Stay tuned for hands-on coverage from 9to5Mac’s Chance Miller, who will be present for the event.

In a discussion with the Brazilian newspaper *Folha de S. Paulo*, Apple SVP of Services Eddy Cue talked about Brazil’s growing importance in Apple TV’s worldwide operations, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to theatrical releases, and commented on Netflix’s attempts to acquire Warner Bros.

### Apple’s Dedication to Theatrical Releases

At a recent Apple TV media event, Apple unveiled a lineup of new original programming and films intended to debut on its streaming platform through 2026. In the conversation, Cue pointed out Brazil as Apple TV’s second-largest and quickest-growing subscriber market. He recognized the slow progress of suggested streaming regulations in Brazil, which may necessitate national content quotas, while expressing hope about the prospects for high-quality content development in the nation.

Cue underscored Apple’s steadfast dedication to theatrical releases, asserting that even with the mounting challenges of drawing audiences to theaters, the communal viewing experience is irreplaceable. He stated, “There’s no alternative to that experience, watching a film together, going on a date at the movies, spending the evening with friends or your kids seeing a film. It’s something genuinely unique, and I believe it will grow in value over time.”

### Netflix and Warner Bros. Acquisition Discussions

Cue also shared his thoughts on the potential ramifications of a Netflix-Warner Bros. agreement for Apple. He remarked on the robust relationships Apple holds with both Netflix and Warner Bros., emphasizing their collaborative efforts on projects like *F1: The Movie*. Cue conveyed assurance that these alliances would persist, irrespective of the results of Netflix’s acquisition pursuits.

### Recent Partnerships and Offerings

In a significant update, Apple has recently revealed a collaboration with Netflix in the U.S. to make the upcoming season of *Formula 1: Drive to Survive* accessible on Apple TV. Apple TV is currently offered at $12.99 per month and showcases a range of popular series and movies, including *F1 The Movie*, *Pluribus*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo*.

In summary, Cue’s observations highlight Apple’s strategic emphasis on amplifying its content offerings while sustaining strong industry relationships, especially in pivotal markets like Brazil.

Apple is poised to unveil its newest MacBook Pro variants next week, showcasing the upgraded M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. This launch will feature both 14-inch and 16-inch models, retaining the recognizable design from the earlier M5 MacBook Pro released in October. Although the outer appearance, ports, and overall feel will be consistent, the internal enhancements are expected to deliver improved performance, making these versions attractive for anyone looking for a premium laptop.

Nonetheless, for those who can delay their purchase, a more substantial upgrade is projected for later this year with the arrival of the M6 MacBook Pro. This model is said to feature a complete redesign that incorporates a sleeker and lighter construction, an OLED display equipped with Dynamic Island technology, touchscreen functionality, and significant performance upgrades with the M6 chip. There is also conjecture regarding the possible inclusion of a C2 modem for cellular capabilities.

Historically, Apple has encountered difficulties in their pursuit to create a thinner and lighter MacBook Pro, especially with the problematic Butterfly keyboard design and diminished port options. Despite this, there are high hopes that the forthcoming design revisions will not sacrifice usability.

In conclusion, the swift launch of the M5 Pro and M5 Max variants will serve those in search of robust performance within a familiar framework. Meanwhile, the M6 MacBook Pro promises a more avant-garde experience for consumers willing to wait for a significant hardware redesign.

For the first time since 2022, Apple recorded year-over-year growth in Apple Watch shipments in 2025, according to recent data from Counterpoint Research. Here are the specifics.

### Apple Watch Trends Trending Upward

The report indicates that Apple experienced an 8% year-over-year increase in Apple Watch shipments, surpassing the overall market, which saw a 4% rise.

Conversely, Apple’s growth lagged behind Huawei’s 30%, Xiaomi’s 18%, and Imoo’s 9%. The report mentions that “China emerged as the fastest growing market, bolstered by strong performances from domestic brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi, and Imoo.”

Regarding Apple’s performance, Senior Research Analyst Anshika Jain remarked:

> “Apple experienced its initial YoY shipment growth since 2022. This growth was fueled by a comprehensive refresh of its lineup with the launch of the Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3. With these introductions, Apple provided options that appealed to a broad consumer audience, ranging from the more budget-friendly Watch SE 3 to the ultra-premium Watch Ultra 3.”

She further stated that the addition of features like “5G Redcap support, hypertension notification, and satellite connectivity in the Watch Ultra 3” contributed to upgrades from consumers “who had postponed their purchases in expectation of a considerably enhanced smartwatch.” The report additionally points out that “shipments of smartwatches supporting cellular connectivity rose by 6% YoY,” reinforcing her observation.

In general, the average selling price of smartwatches reportedly increased by 5% in 2025 compared to 2024, continuing what Jain described as the segment’s “premiumization trajectory.” Meanwhile, devices priced at $200 or lower experienced a 9% decline.

Finally, when examining the global shipment market share in 2025 relative to 2024, Apple gained 1 percentage point to reach 23%, further extending its lead among the top five brands. Huawei followed with a 4-point increase to 17%, while Xiaomi rose 1 point to 9%. Samsung fell 2 points to 7%, tying with Imoo, which gained 1 point year over year.

To view Counterpoint Research’s complete report, follow this link.

**Apple Hardware Unveilings and Software Enhancements: A Preview**

As the tech industry prepares for a week packed with thrilling Apple hardware unveilings, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller present the latest updates in their newest episode. The excitement is tangible as Apple supporters look forward to new product revelations, but before venturing into the hardware, there are several significant updates within the software domain.

**iOS 26.4 Beta Launch**

The newest beta iteration of iOS, 26.4, has debuted, granting developers and users a sneak peek of future developments. This update is anticipated to bring forth numerous improvements and features designed to enhance user experience and system efficiency. As is customary, beta versions facilitate testing and feedback, setting the stage for a more refined final version.

**Speculated iPhone 18 Pro Hue**

In the hardware sector, buzz is circulating about a captivating deep red hue option for the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro. This daring color selection could attract users seeking a distinctive look for their devices, amplifying the excitement around the upcoming model’s debut.

**macOS Touch Interface Feature**

Bloomberg has revealed significant software advancements headed to macOS, primarily designed to support the expected touch screen MacBook Pro. This progress signifies a major transition in Apple’s strategy regarding its laptop lineup, potentially boosting usability and engagement for those who favor touch interfaces.

**Samsung’s Innovative Privacy Screen**

In an unexpected development, Samsung has introduced an ingenious dynamic privacy screen feature on their latest flagship smartphones. This innovation seeks to improve user privacy by modifying the screen’s visibility based on the user’s location, ensuring that private information stays secure even in crowded situations.

**Acme Weather: A Fresh App for Weather Aficionados**

In other developments, the makers of the well-known weather app Dark Sky have left Apple to initiate a new project called Acme Weather. This application is tailored specifically for weather aficionados, promising a variety of features that appeal to those who are serious about monitoring the weather. Interested users can subscribe to 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus for special content and updates regarding this new offering.

**Participation and Feedback**

Listeners are invited to connect with the show by sending questions and feedback through Twitter, Mastodon, or email. The hosts are eager to receive input from their audience and include their questions in upcoming episodes.

**Final Thoughts**

As the week unfolds, both Apple devotees and tech aficionados will be keenly observing the progress in hardware and software. With the anticipation of new devices and innovative features, the thrill surrounding Apple’s announcements keeps escalating. Stay tuned for further updates as the launch week advances.

# Adjusting Your CarPlay App Layout

Have you ever wanted to rearrange or remove apps from CarPlay? Fortunately, you can, though the process differs from changing your iPhone Home screen arrangement. The key is found in the Settings app on your iPhone. Just be sure not to attempt this while driving. You can also make these changes without being connected to CarPlay.

## Adjusting Your CarPlay App Layout

If you’ve connected your iPhone to CarPlay at any point, you can adjust the app layout without being next to your car. Note that the custom app layout is unique to each vehicle, so you’ll have to repeat the process if you want the same configuration across different vehicles.

### Steps to Adjust Your CarPlay Apps

1. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and select General.
2. Choose CarPlay; it should appear as the eighth entry on the list.
3. Pick your vehicle from the list of connected cars, then tap Customize.

Once you’re in this section, you can rearrange apps to your liking by dragging them vertically. The interface operates a bit differently, as sorting app names on a list isn’t the usual way we rearrange iPhone apps. This design choice might be influenced by the diverse layouts of various CarPlay screens.

### Familiarizing Yourself with CarPlay Screen Layouts

You’ll want to know how many apps can fit on one page of your CarPlay screen. A typical configuration is 2×4 (two rows and four columns). If this matches your setup, reference the following guide for sorting order:

1. Top left icon
2. Second from top left icon
3. Second from top right icon
4. Top right icon
5. Bottom left icon
6. Second from bottom left icon
7. Second from bottom right icon
8. Bottom right icon

Continue this sorting for every eight slots to arrange page by page.

Some CarPlay screens may have a different layout, like 2×5 or 4×4. If so, remember to consider the differences in sorting order when organizing by page.

### Concealing CarPlay Apps

The app arrangement interface also lets you conceal or reveal CarPlay apps. Hiding a CarPlay app permits you to eliminate it from CarPlay without removing it from your iPhone.

For additional information regarding CarPlay apps, check out the ongoing lists of [top CarPlay apps](https://9to5mac.com/best-carplay-apps/) and [top EV apps for CarPlay](https://9to5mac.com/these-are-the-best-carplay-apps-for-ev-owners/).

Xcode 26.3 has been unveiled, bringing support for agentic coding, which empowers developers to integrate AI tools such as OpenAI’s Codex and Anthropic’s Claude Agent directly into the Xcode environment. This integration streamlines various tasks, including generating boilerplate code and updating projects in accordance with existing documentation and file structures.

Apple highlights that these AI agents can improve the entire development lifecycle, allowing developers to optimize workflows, iterate quicker, and realize their ideas more effectively. The agents are capable of searching documentation, navigating file structures, modifying project settings, and visually confirming their work through Xcode Previews.

Moreover, Xcode 26.3 exposes its agent interface via Anthropic’s Model Context Protocol (MCP), enabling other compatible tools to connect with Xcode, thereby expanding the range of available AI assistance.

While these tools provide substantial support in development, Apple emphasizes that a solid grasp of one’s code remains crucial, especially for applications aimed for public distribution. The initial feedback regarding this integration has been favorable, with developers sharing their insights on platforms like Mastodon, demonstrating the functionalities of the new features.

YouTube has featured various showcases of the integration, including a session conducted by Ken Orr, the head of the Xcode team at Apple, and discussions by Jerome Bouvard, a senior product manager for developer tools at Apple.

In summary, Xcode 26.3 reduces the entry threshold for newcomers to iOS development while equipping experienced developers with resources to accelerate repetitive tasks. For those keen on exploring iOS development, now is an ideal moment to engage with Xcode 26.3. Additional information can be found on the [official Apple developer website](https://developer.apple.com/xcode/).