Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Recent News on iPhone 17, 18, and Fold Speculations

### Apple Rumor Replay: Updates on iPhone 17, 18, and M5 iPad Pro

This week’s installment of Rumor Replay from 9to5Mac emphasizes the newest speculations regarding Apple’s forthcoming products, concentrating on the iPhone 17, iPhone 18, and the M5 iPad Pro. Here’s an in-depth summary of what to anticipate.

#### Latest Insights on iPhone 17

New information has surfaced about the imminent iPhone 17 lineup, uncovering various fascinating updates:

– **iPhone 17**: Leaker Majin Bu has stated that Apple is evaluating new color possibilities, particularly purple and green, for the standard iPhone 17 model.
– **iPhone 17 Air**: Jeff from 9to5Mac noted that the iOS 26 beta 2 contains code that indicates a display resolution of 1260 x 2736 for the iPhone 17 Air.
– **iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max**: Majin Bu also disclosed a pre-production image that suggests a vapor chamber cooling system will be incorporated into the Pro models to improve thermal regulation.

#### My Insights

Although none of the rumors are revolutionary, they correspond with expectations as Apple nears the introduction of the iPhone 17 lineup in the next few months. Most current rumors reinforce previously leaked data, painting a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

#### iPhone 18 Pro, Fold, and More

The speculation continues regarding the iPhone 18 Pro and the much-anticipated iPhone Fold:

– **iPhone 18 Pro**: Digital Chat Station confirmed that Face ID components might be repositioned beneath the display, leaving only a minimal camera cutout visible.
– **Display Developments**: Display analyst Ross Young offered a contrasting prediction for iPhone display alterations, indicating a timeline where the Dynamic Island feature will gradually fade until a completely bezel-less design is realized by 2030.
– **iPhone Fold**: New information regarding the iPhone Fold has come to light, which is projected to have a slightly smaller inner display than originally expected, along with dual 48MP rear cameras.

#### My Insights

The variations between sources about the iPhone 18 Pro’s design suggest possible changes in Apple’s strategies. The ongoing conversation about display features implies that Apple may encounter difficulties in achieving its ambitious design objectives.

#### M5 iPad Pro Production Update

Looking forward to the iPad Pro, there are high expectations for the new model featuring Apple’s M5 chip. Recent supply chain reports indicate that mass production of OLED panels by Samsung and LG has begun, aligning with a planned fall launch.

#### My Insights

The commencement of production for the M5 iPad Pro’s OLED panels is encouraging and should ensure a timely release. This launch is set to coincide with the introduction of iPadOS 26, highlighting the iPad’s improved functionalities.

### Conclusion

As Apple gears up to introduce its latest products, the speculations surrounding the iPhone 17, iPhone 18, and M5 iPad Pro offer a preview of the company’s future trajectory. Anticipation grows as we look forward to further confirmations and details in the upcoming months.

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iPhone to Unveil Ultra-Luxury Variants in Fall 2024 Collection

**Apple’s Future iPhone Collection: A Move Towards Luxury Models**

Lately, Apple has released the same four iPhone models annually, but that will soon change. This autumn, a sleeker iPhone 17 Air will disrupt the routine, and next year, an even more significant transformation is in store, as Apple prepares to unveil its most luxurious fall lineup to date.

### Apple’s Most Luxurious iPhone 18 Models Set to Debut Next Autumn

We are just under three months from the iPhone 17 reveal, and anticipation is growing for the remarkably slim iPhone 17 Air. The iPhone 17 Air will signify a substantial alteration in Apple’s conventional lineup, as it will replace the Plus model with a novel design. However, the excitement builds for the following year.

According to reports from several credible sources, Apple’s autumn 2026 collection will undergo a premium revamp. Here’s what we can expect:

– iPhone 18 Air
– iPhone 18 Pro
– iPhone 18 Pro Max
– iPhone 18 Fold

Notice anything absent? There’s no basic model iPhone 18. This is because Apple intends to move its budget-friendly iPhone version to a spring launch instead.

### Autumn is Reserved for Upscale iPhones Only, Beginning Next Year

Approximately six months after the debut of the high-end iPhone 18 models, two additional budget-conscious choices will be released:

– iPhone 18
– iPhone 18e

This adjustment implies that we will have a greater number of new iPhones each year than ever before. It also indicates that the fall lineup will be more refined than in the past. The iPhone 18 Air will be the least expensive fall model, expected to be priced around ~$999, or perhaps a bit lower. Costs will only escalate from there, with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max comfortably exceeding the $1,000 threshold. The newly introduced iPhone 18 Fold will complete the range. While it’s too soon to ascertain precise pricing, estimates range from $2,000 to $2,500.

In essence, Apple’s flagship iPhones will see increased starting prices beginning next year. If you seek a more economical alternative, you will need to wait for the subsequent spring.

What are your thoughts on Apple transitioning its fall iPhone lineup towards a more luxurious offering? Share your opinions in the comments.

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Hardware Specifications for Apple Intelligence in watchOS 26

# watchOS 26: The Next Major Hardware Enhancement for Apple Watch

watchOS 26 represents a substantial leap forward for the Apple Watch, unveiling a host of features driven by Apple Intelligence. This update not only bolsters the device’s capabilities but also imposes specific hardware prerequisites for users to unlock these novel functionalities.

## Distinct AI Features on Apple Watch Each Have Specific Requirements

Apple Intelligence was first introduced on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, with the Vision Pro being the most recent addition. With the rollout of watchOS 26, Apple is extending these AI features to the Apple Watch, yet the hardware compatibility landscape is intricate. Various features demand different hardware, as some are powered by on-device models while others rely on large language models (LLMs) operating on an associated iPhone.

### Hardware Specifications for AI-Enhanced Features

Here is an overview of the hardware specifications required for the diverse AI features offered in watchOS 26:

#### Live Translation in Messages
– **Availability**: Necessitates Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, or Apple Watch Ultra 2, paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone.

#### Smart Replies
– **Availability**: Accessible on Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2, without the necessity for a particular iPhone model.

#### Workout Buddy
– **Availability**: Usable on any Apple Watch with Bluetooth headphones, but requires an Apple Intelligence-compatible iPhone within proximity.

The prerequisites for these features highlight the diverse compatibility demands. For example, Live Translation requires both a recent Apple Watch model and an AI-compatible iPhone, while Smart Replies only necessitate a sufficiently updated Apple Watch. On the other hand, Workout Buddy is operable with any Apple Watch, as long as the paired iPhone offers AI support.

### Conclusion

As Apple progresses in incorporating AI functionalities into its devices, the launch of watchOS 26 marks an essential juncture for the Apple Watch. Users must assess their existing hardware to fully leverage these new features. Whether it’s the improved communication via Live Translation or the ease of Smart Replies and Workout Buddy, the update is set to greatly enhance the user experience.

What features in watchOS 26 catch your attention, and how crucial is Apple Intelligence support for your usage?

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Apple Podcasts Celebrates 20 Years by Highlighting 20 Pivotal Shows

**Apple Podcasts Marks 20 Years of Podcasting**

Apple Podcasts is celebrating twenty years of podcasting, highlighting the launch of the initial podcasts in iTunes in 2005. In recognition of this achievement, Apple has assembled a collection of 20 programs that have notably shaped the podcasting sphere throughout the years.

### 20 Podcasts Chosen by Apple for Podcasting’s 20th Anniversary

Apple’s editorial teams have a longstanding tradition of creating favorite lists, and now it’s the moment for Apple Podcasts to take center stage. The company has brought attention to 20 exceptional shows that illustrate the progress of podcasting.

As per Apple, the criteria for selection centered on shows that have made a significant impression and remain relevant to audiences. The editorial note linked to each program highlights their significance in shaping the podcasting format and their capacity to engage listeners.

Some remarkable podcasts featured in the selection include:

– [Serial](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/serial/id917918570?itscg=30200&itsct=podcast_box&ls=1&mttnsubad=917918570&at=1000l3cvR)
– [This American Life](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-american-life/id201671138?itscg=30200&itsct=podcast_box&ls=1&mttnsubad=201671138&at=1000l3cvR)
– [The Daily](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daily/id1200361736?itscg=30200&itsct=podcast_box&ls=1&mttnsubad=1200361736&at=1000l3cvR)
– [Therapuss with Jake Shane](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/therapuss-with-jake-shane/id1723626781?itscg=30200&itsct=podcast_box&ls=1&mttnsubad=1723626781&at=1000l3cvR) (launched in 2024)

Listeners can view the complete list of chosen podcasts on

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Limited-Time Promotions: $200 Off on 1TB M4 MacBook Air, $15 Apple Solo Loops, 20% Discount on All-Black Ocean Band, and Additional Deals

### Current Apple Product Promotions: M4 MacBook Air, Apple Watch Bands, and More

As the technology landscape keeps changing, Apple items continue to capture consumer attention, especially with the latest promotions on a range of devices. Here’s a summary of some of the top deals currently accessible, featuring noteworthy discounts on the M4 MacBook Air, Apple Watch bands, and beyond.

#### M4 MacBook Air Offer

One of the key promotions is on the **13-inch M4 MacBook Air**, which is currently priced at **$1,399**, showing a **$200 reduction** from its standard price. This variant boasts **24GB of RAM** and a **1TB SSD**, rendering it a robust choice for both leisure users and professionals. While Amazon has a comparable model with 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD for **$1,249**, the 1TB version at B&H presents a superior option for those needing extra storage.

The price evaluation indicates that ordering the same configuration directly from Apple would set you back **$1,599**, making the current B&H deal particularly appealing. This offer is part of a larger movement, as we’ve observed numerous configurations of the MacBook Air on markdown, with starting prices of **$849** at Amazon.

#### Apple Watch Band Discounts

Alongside the laptop deals, Apple Watch accessories are also experiencing significant markdowns. The **official all-black Apple Ocean Band**, usually selling for **$99**, is currently offered at **$78.99** in great condition, which comes with a one-year Apple warranty. This is a unique chance, as discounts on this specific band type are rare.

Additionally, the **Apple Watch Solo and Braided Loop bands** are discounted, with prices beginning as low as **$15**. These bands, which were originally priced up to **$99**, come in various colors, offering an excellent time to upgrade your Apple Watch accessories.

#### M4 iPad Pro Price Reduction

The **1TB 11-inch M4 iPad Pro** has also been marked down, now sold for **$1,439**, reduced from **$1,599**. This **$160 discount** makes it one of the top deals available for this model, particularly given the rarity of substantial price cuts on the M4 iPad Pro series this year.

#### More Accessory Deals

In addition to the major devices, there are various accessory bargains, including charging solutions and other peripherals. The **512GB M4 Mac mini** is currently listed at **$699**, showing a **$100 discount**. This model is especially attractive for users needing a compact desktop option without compromising on performance.

#### Conclusion

With these ongoing specials, now is an ideal time for consumers to consider upgrading their Apple devices or accessories. Whether you’re in the market for a powerful laptop, sleek watch bands, or a high-performance tablet, the present deals offer considerable savings across the spectrum. Be sure to act promptly, as many of these promotions are limited-time offers and may not remain available for long.

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Apple Contemplates Major Shift to Showcase Dedication to Theatrical Movies

Apple’s largest theatrical venture to date, the $250 million “F1 The Movie,” debuts in US cinemas tonight. Following its release, a new report indicates that the company is considering a significant move that would demonstrate its commitment to theatrical distribution.

### Apple Could Launch Its Own Theatrical Distribution Division, According to WSJ

Ben Fritz and Joe Flint report in *The Wall Street Journal*:

Apple has not developed the infrastructure to release and promote its own films, unlike Amazon, which acquired MGM. Warner Bros. is distributing “F1” on behalf of Apple and receives a share of box-office earnings that escalates with ticket sales, according to a source familiar with the deal.

This strategy reduces Apple’s overhead expenses but leaves it reliant on partners who may favor their own projects. Warner Bros. is set to release “Superman,” its most significant film of the year, just two weeks after “F1.”

A representative from Warner stated that it is providing “F1” with a “robust global marketing campaign that befits a film of its size.”

Discussions among Apple executives about establishing their own theatrical distribution unit have occurred, sources familiar with the situation noted.

That last detail is mentioned with minimal commentary at the conclusion of the article. However, it would indeed be substantial news if Apple decides to pursue this direction.

Apple’s track record with theatrical ventures has been inconsistent.

Initially, Apple TV+ concentrated on indie, Oscar contender films and attained success with this strategy. *CODA* became the first film from a streaming service to win the Oscar for Best Picture.

For these films, Apple only offered a limited theatrical run for awards consideration.

Then, the company pivoted to releasing big-budget, wide theatrical projects. Notable examples include *Killers of the Flower Moon*, *Napoleon*, and *Argylle*.

This method proved to be less successful. After a series of underwhelming releases, Apple abruptly scrapped the wide theatrical release plan for *Wolfs* at the last moment, focusing instead on straight-to-TV+ films.

*F1 The Movie* stands out as the primary exception.

Given Apple’s complicated relationship with movie theaters, Hollywood is understandably cautious.

This is likely why Eddy Cue emphasized to *Bloomberg*, “This concept that theaters are going away, it’s not true…Theatrical experiences are great, and I’m a huge fan.”

Should Apple establish its own theatrical distribution unit, it would clearly indicate that movie theaters are included in the company’s long-term content strategy.

Do you believe Apple should strengthen its commitment to theatrical releases, or continue to scale back? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple TV+ is offered at $9.99 per month and includes popular shows and films such as *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, *Silo*, and *Shrinking*.

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AI Bots Overrun Reddit: A Study of Reddit’s Involvement in the Spam Dilemma

**Reddit’s Struggle Against AI Bots: A Continuous Arms Race**

Reddit, the well-known social media platform, is currently encountering a considerable obstacle as it deals with a surge of AI-generated spam posts. CEO Steve Huffman has openly recognized this predicament, noting that the platform is in “an arms race” to identify and obstruct these fraudulent submissions. The scenario has become especially ironic, considering that Reddit has monetized user-generated content by profiting from its access for AI training purposes.

**The Origin of the Issue**

The dispute began in early 2023 when Reddit secured a $60 million contract that permitted a third party, later revealed to be Google, to collect user posts for AI training. In an effort to safeguard this profitable agreement, Reddit limited access to its content, blocking not only AI training bots from competing firms but also web crawlers. This choice effectively restricted the indexing of Reddit content to Google solely.

**The Rise in Spam**

As a result of this arrangement, companies have started employing AI bots to generate fake posts on Reddit. The rationale behind this strategy is clear: by flooding the platform with content, companies aim to enhance the chances that their products and brands will appear in the responses generated by AI chatbots. Huffman confirmed to the Financial Times that this phenomenon is indeed taking place, with businesses utilizing AI to manipulate Reddit’s content to their benefit.

Huffman further explained the situation, stating, “For 20 years, we’ve been combating individuals who have wanted to be popular on Reddit. We index very well into the search engines. If you wish to appear in the search engines, you strive to perform well on Reddit, and now the LLMs, it’s the same concept. If you want to be in the LLMs, you can achieve that through Reddit.” This underscores the dual function Reddit fulfills as both a content platform and a target for exploitation by parties seeking visibility in AI outputs.

**Reddit’s Reaction**

In response to the intensifying spam issue, Reddit is actively investigating multiple strategies to tackle AI-generated content. Huffman stressed the significance of ensuring that posts are “written by humans and voted on by humans,” indicating that the platform is dedicated to preserving the authenticity of its content. Nonetheless, he recognized the ongoing nature of this conflict, characterizing it as a “never-ending” battle.

One of the more contentious solutions under consideration involves the implementation of biometric verification technologies, such as the World ID eyeball-scanning device suggested by OpenAI’s Sam Altman. This strategy raises concerns regarding user privacy and the extent to which Reddit may go to uphold the integrity of its platform.

**User Reactions and Future Consequences**

The revelation that Reddit’s monetization strategy has unintentionally fueled the spam bot issue has not sat well with its user community. Numerous Redditors were already displeased with the notion of their posts being sold for AI training, and the emergence of spam bots has only exacerbated their annoyance. This situation highlights a considerable challenge for Reddit: balancing the monetization of user content while maintaining the quality and authenticity of the platform.

As Reddit navigates this intricate landscape, it faces the dual challenge of safeguarding its business interests while upholding user trust. The result of this ongoing arms race will likely influence the future of Reddit and its place in the larger ecosystem of social media and AI.

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Information on Screen Dimensions, Cameras, and Additional Features Uncovered in Recent iPhone Fold Leak

### iPhone Fold: Latest Specifications and Anticipations

As Apple prepares for the highly awaited unveiling of the iPhone 17 this September, focus is already turning to the brand’s forthcoming innovations, notably the eagerly awaited iPhone Fold, projected to launch in the autumn of 2026. Recent leaks have shed light on the device’s specs, encompassing its display, camera features, and construction materials.

#### Current Specifications of the iPhone Fold

Per insights from Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station, the iPhone Fold remains in the prototype stage, with numerous specifications not yet finalized. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also observed that Apple is diligently working to enhance the device’s features. The most recent updates indicate the following specifications:

– **Display Size**: The iPhone Fold will boast a 7.58-inch inner display, slightly smaller than previous estimates which suggested closer to 7.8 inches.

– **Cameras**: The device is anticipated to incorporate dual 48MP rear lenses, in line with Apple’s ongoing trend of boosting camera specifications across its range, particularly with the forthcoming iPhone 17 Pro models.

– **Hinge Design**: The hinge is set to be fabricated from a composite material that merges robust yet amorphous metallic glass, aimed at improving the device’s durability and practicality.

– **Body Material**: The iPhone Fold’s body will consist of titanium, recognized for its strength and lightweight characteristics.

The design of the iPhone Fold, when opened, is reported to resemble a smaller variant of the iPad mini, offering a compact but functional experience for users.

#### Camera Features

The dual 48MP camera configuration is expected to include wide and ultra-wide lenses, akin to those available in the base iPhone models. However, there are rumors that Apple might opt for a telephoto lens rather than an ultra-wide lens, though no conclusive details have emerged about the precise camera setups.

#### Community Involvement

As excitement grows around the iPhone Fold, Apple fans are invited to voice their opinions on the device. Are you considering purchasing an iPhone Fold? What features excite you the most? Community feedback can yield valuable insights into consumer desires and expectations for this groundbreaking device.

### Conclusion

The iPhone Fold signifies a major advancement in Apple’s product offerings, illustrating the company’s dedication to innovation and user experience. With its distinctive design and cutting-edge specifications, the iPhone Fold is set to make a noteworthy impact in the smartphone arena upon its launch.

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Important Notice: Users of Apple Watch Hermès Are Recommended to Avoid Installing the Latest Beta Versions

### Apple Watch Hermès and watchOS 26 Beta 2: A Cautionary Note

Individuals utilizing a beta variant of any software should anticipate challenges, however, if you possess an [Apple Watch Hermès](https://9to5mac.com/guides/hermes-watch/), it is recommended to steer clear of the beta 2 editions of both watchOS 26 and iOS 26 completely.

Apple has issued a notice regarding a compatibility problem between watchOS 26 beta 2 and the Hermès timepiece, believed to arise from issues with the distinctive watch faces linked to that model. This caution is elaborated in the [release notes](https://developer.apple.com/documentation/watchos-release-notes/watchos-26-release-notes) provided by Apple.

> “Apple Watch Hermès experiences constant crashes when updated to watchOS 26 beta 2. It is recommended that these users refrain from updating to beta 2.” (152604139)

Besides the complications with watchOS, users from [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/06/25/watchos-26-hermes-crash-issue/) have reported major difficulties with the iPhone beta as well.

> “Feedback from MacRumors users indicates that transitioning to iOS 26 beta 2 leads to issues with the Hermès Apple Watches. Users have discovered that the Apple Watch app on iPhone remains inaccessible post-installation of iOS 26 beta 2 if a Hermès watch is linked to the iPhone.”

Though unpairing the watch may temporarily alleviate the problem, users have reported an inability to re-pair the watch afterwards.

With Apple acknowledging these complications, a resolution is anticipated in the forthcoming beta release.

The Hermès watch debuted in 2015 as a partnership between Apple and the French luxury brand, showcasing exclusive watch faces and bands that elevate the premium experience of the Apple Watch.

#### Highlighted Accessories

![Apple Watch Hermès](https://www.apple.com/uk/apple-watch-hermes/)

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.

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Data Brokers Possibly Involved in Unlawful Sale of Personal Information

### The Shadowy Realm of Data Brokerage: Grasping the Dangers and Guidelines

In a time when personal information has become a lucrative asset, the activities of data brokers have attracted attention. These organizations gather, analyze, and market personal details, frequently without the awareness or approval of the affected individuals. Recent inquiries have exposed that certain data brokers might be acting unlawfully, obstructing individuals from accessing their data and opting out of its accumulation and resale.

#### The Privacy Emergency

Privacy advocates have sounded the alarm regarding a troubling pattern among firms that gather and trade personal data. Reports suggest that numerous such companies may be failing to comply with state regulations aimed at safeguarding consumer privacy. While Europe has enacted strict privacy laws, the United States is missing a comprehensive federal statute. Nevertheless, four states—California, Oregon, Texas, and Vermont—have initiated measures to regulate data brokers by mandating them to:

– Register with state officials
– Reveal the types of personal data they gather and sell
– Offer residents an opt-out option to stop their data from being sold

In spite of these regulations, investigations by groups like the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and Privacy Rights Clearinghouse (PRC) have found that many data brokers have neglected to register in all states where they function. This non-compliance raises serious issues regarding transparency and consumer rights.

#### The Demand for Examination

The EFF and various privacy rights organizations have called on state consumer protection agencies to look into why hundreds of data brokers have not fulfilled their registration obligations. Their analysis indicates that the situation could be even worse than previously understood, as it only considered brokers registered in at least one state. There may be many others that have failed to register in any states with relevant laws.

#### The Dangers of Unregulated Data Brokerage

The consequences of unregulated data brokerage are grave. The data amassed can encompass sensitive details such as location data, which can be misused for targeted marketing, bias, and even governmental surveillance. The ease of accessing this data amplifies the risk of data breaches, permitting malicious entities to engage in phishing, harassment, or stalking.

The EFF underscores the necessity of probing these practices due to the potential for misuse and the sensitivity of the involved information. The absence of accountability among data brokers not only endangers individual privacy but also presents wider societal threats.

#### Conclusion

As the digital environment continues to progress, the demand for strong privacy protections becomes more crucial. While some states have taken measures to regulate data brokers, the many who fail to comply with these regulations expose a significant deficiency in consumer protection. Ongoing investigations and advocacy actions are vital to ensure that individuals can regain control over their personal information and defend their privacy in an increasingly data-centered society.

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