AllYouCanTech

Volvo Improves Integration with Apple’s Car Key Functionality

# Volvo Enhances Support for Apple’s Car Key Platform with EX30 Update

Volvo is making notable progress in merging technology with its vehicles by broadening support for Apple’s Car Key platform. The newest software update for the Volvo EX30 now facilitates drivers in storing their car keys in the Apple Wallet app on their iPhones, allowing them to effortlessly lock, unlock, and start their vehicles.

## The Volvo EX30: An Overview

Debuting in Europe last year and recently arriving in the United States, the Volvo EX30 has swiftly become popular in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. It was named the third best-selling EV in Europe in 2022, coming in behind only Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3. The EX30 acts as a compact alternative to the larger Volvo EX90, catering to consumers seeking a smaller, efficient electric vehicle without sacrificing technology and features.

## Software Update and Car Key Integration

Users have reported on platforms like Reddit that software version 1.5.2 began its rollout this month, introducing the long-awaited support for Apple’s Car Key platform. This integration allows users to employ their iPhones as digital keys, easily stored in the Wallet app.

### Key Features of the Digital Key

The digital key functionality brings several benefits:

– **Convenience**: Drivers can lock, unlock, and start their cars using their smartphones, removing the necessity of a physical key.
– **Simple Pairing**: To connect the car to the phone, users merely open the mobile app for their vehicle and follow the instructions. If successful, the digital key will show up in the phone’s Wallet app.
– **Accessibility**: The digital key is currently only available for Apple devices, making it a distinctive feature for iPhone users.

The Volvo release notes indicate that to start the car using the digital key, the phone must either be brought into the vehicle or placed on the card reader, ensuring a secure and user-friendly experience.

## Broader Adoption of Apple’s Car Key

Although the Volvo EX90 has included Apple’s Car Key integration since its debut last year, the adoption of this technology throughout the automotive sector has been slow since its announcement at WWDC in 2020. Beyond Volvo, numerous other automakers, such as Rivian, Kia, and BMW, have adopted the Car Key capability, broadening its reach to a wider variety of vehicles. Recently, Audi also declared support for the Car Key feature in its A6 Avant E-Tron, with hints that Porsche EVs might follow suit shortly.

Apple maintains a detailed list of vehicles supporting the Car Key feature on its website, although it has not yet been updated with the newest models from Volvo and Audi.

## Conclusion

The integration of Apple’s Car Key platform in the Volvo EX30 marks a significant leap in automotive technology, improving convenience and security for drivers. As more automakers embrace this cutting-edge feature, the future of vehicle access and control is expected to become more digital, paving the way for a more connected driving experience.

Have you tried Apple’s Car Key platform? Share your experiences in the comments below!

### Explore More

For those eager to enhance their iPhone experience, consider exploring some of the latest accessories that complement the Apple ecosystem.

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Apple’s Antitrust Appeal Denied in Germany, Resulting in Updated App Store Rules

# Apple Under Antitrust Investigation in Germany: A New Phase of Regulatory Oversight

Apple Inc., a giant in the tech industry, is currently dealing with challenging circumstances in Germany as it faces increased antitrust investigation. This investigation has ramped up following the introduction of a new law that allows regulatory authorities to enforce stricter regulations on firms considered to have substantial market power. Recently, Apple was unsuccessful in its appeal against the Federal Cartel Office (Bundeskartellamt), which has given the agency the power to demand alterations in how Apple manages its App Store.

## The Legal Context: US vs. Europe

A key component of this scenario is the differing legal frameworks that govern antitrust matters in the United States and Europe. In the US, authorities must prove that a company’s actions have resulted in real harm to consumers, such as higher prices. This prerequisite often results in protracted legal disputes and an emphasis on after-the-fact solutions.

In contrast, European legislation takes a more anticipatory approach. Regulators need only demonstrate that a company’s conduct may pose a potential threat to competition, enabling earlier intervention. This proactive strategy aims to prevent anti-competitive behavior before it can adversely affect consumers.

The Bundeskartellamt’s evaluation concluded that Apple’s administration of the App Store creates a likelihood of consumer detriment, thus validating its power to enforce modifications in Apple’s policies. Apple challenged this decision, claiming that it does not possess a dominant stance in the app market and should not be subjected to such regulations.

## The Court’s Ruling: A Blow to Apple

On March 18, 2023, Apple encountered a notable setback when the Federal Court of Justice affirmed the Bundeskartellamt’s designation of the company as a “firm of paramount cross-market significance for competition.” This ruling paves the way for the German regulatory agency to set forth new regulations regarding the distribution of iPhone apps.

The court’s ruling highlights the ongoing discussion surrounding Apple’s market standing. While Apple asserts that it does not dominate the mobile app market overall, European regulators contend that its oversight of iPhone apps constitutes a monopoly, necessitating regulatory action.

## Consequences for Apple’s App Store Guidelines

The ramifications of this ruling are significant. With the Bundeskartellamt now equipped to enforce changes, Apple might be compelled to considerably revise its App Store policies. This could entail permitting third-party app stores, a requirement already outlined by European Union regulations. However, the particulars of any forthcoming regulations remain unclear.

Apple’s App Store has historically been a source of criticism, with developers and regulators questioning its commission rates and policies concerning app approvals. As the regulatory landscape shifts, Apple may be required to navigate a complicated network of compliance obligations that could transform its business model.

## Conclusion: A New Age of Regulatory Vigilance

The recent court ruling in Germany signifies a crucial juncture in the ongoing narrative of antitrust scrutiny that Apple contends with. As the company confronts regulatory hurdles, it must also reflect on the broader consequences for its business practices and relationships with developers. The outcome of this situation could establish a blueprint for how technology behemoths are regulated in Europe and beyond, potentially reforming the competitive dynamics of the app market.

As developments unfold, stakeholders will be keenly observing the Bundeskartellamt’s subsequent actions and the potential effects on Apple’s operations. The intersection of technology and regulation continues to advance, and firms like Apple must adjust to this evolving landscape to succeed in the future.

Roku Trials Auto-Playing Video Advertisements Before Home Screen Loads

### Roku’s Controversial Advertising Experiment: User Feedback and Consequences

Roku, a prominent entity in the streaming device industry, has recently ignited controversy by trialing auto-playing video advertisements that display before users are able to access the home screen of their Roku-enabled smart TVs. This initiative has faced considerable backlash from users who have voiced their grievances on social media and forums.

#### The User Experience

Reports of these disruptive ads started to emerge on platforms such as Reddit, where users recounted their experiences of encountering unskippable video advertisements immediately upon powering on their Roku devices. Frustrated users shared comments that captured their discontent, such as:

– “I powered on my Roku and immediately got hit with an unskippable ad for a movie, before I reached the usual Roku home screen. Has anyone else had this happen?”
– “If this continues, my Roku devices are going in the garbage.”

These remarks highlight an escalating dissatisfaction among Roku users who believe that their viewing experience is being hampered by mandatory advertisements.

#### Roku’s Response

In light of the increasing complaints, Roku stated that the auto-playing ads are part of a testing initiative. A company spokesperson clarified that this feature is not intended to be a permanent part of the Roku operating system but rather an investigation into new advertising options. The spokesperson stressed that Roku’s business model is based on ongoing testing and innovation across multiple areas of their service, including advertising.

The company assured users that the ads are meant to be skippable, although numerous users have reported inconsistency in this feature’s availability.

#### User Backlash

The unfavorable feedback has been widespread, as many users have voiced their annoyance on Roku’s official forums. Examples of user comments include:

– “I hope this was just a glitch. If this doesn’t change, my Rokus will be next to go.”
– “How can you make me, on a device that I ALREADY paid for, watch a streaming ad before I can select an app to view another service?”

This backlash underscores a significant worry among consumers regarding the monetization practices of streaming platforms, particularly when they feel their user experience is being sacrificed for financial gain.

#### Alternatives and Future Implications

As dissatisfaction grows, many users are contemplating alternatives to Roku. Some have indicated a desire to switch to devices like Chromecast or Apple TV, which they believe might provide a more consumer-friendly experience without invasive advertisements. This scenario raises important questions about the future of Roku’s business model and whether the company can retain its user base if it pursues this approach.

#### Conclusion

Roku’s experimentation with auto-playing video ads has ignited a fervent discussion among its users, many of whom are displeased with the apparent direction the company is heading. While Roku claims this is solely a test, the strong negative feedback indicates that the company must proceed cautiously as it seeks to balance advertising revenue with user satisfaction. As streaming services continue to develop, the challenge of sustaining a positive user experience while exploring new monetization methods will be vital for Roku and its rivals.

Apple Reveals Major Growth of Tap to Pay Functionality on iPhone

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

In a time when speed and convenience are essential, Apple’s **Tap to Pay on iPhone** functionality is revolutionizing how small enterprises accept payments. This groundbreaking technology enables retailers to handle contactless payments straight through their iPhones, removing the necessity for extra hardware like card readers or mobile terminals. As of now, this feature has broadened its availability to nine additional countries, further improving its accessibility for small business proprietors globally.

## What is Tap to Pay on iPhone?

Launched in 2022, **Tap to Pay on iPhone** signifies a major advancement in payment technologies for small enterprises. It represents the fourth generation of card payment solutions, progressing from conventional wired terminals to modern wireless systems. Here’s a concise summary of the evolution:

1. **Wired Card Payment Terminals**: These incurred rental costs and were frequently unwieldy.
2. **Wireless Versions**: Although more user-friendly, they still required rental agreements.
3. **Standalone Bluetooth Devices**: These units connected to an iPhone and involved a one-time purchase price.
4. **Tap to Pay on iPhone**: The most recent version necessitates no extra hardware, permitting businesses to accept payments directly via their iPhones.

With this feature, customers can easily tap their contactless cards, iPhones, or Apple Watches against the merchant’s iPhone to finalize a transaction. However, it’s crucial to remember that the service is confined to contactless payments, which may have differing transaction limits that could impact certain businesses.

## Recent Expansion to Nine New Countries

Apple has been progressively introducing **Tap to Pay on iPhone** to various nations, and today signifies one of the largest expansions. The feature is now enabled in the following nine countries:

– **Bulgaria**: Supported by Adyen, myPOS, Revolut, and Viva; SumUp is anticipated to be added soon.
– **Finland**: Compatible with Adyen, Mollie, Nets, Revolut, Stripe, SumUp, and Viva; Surfboard Payments is forthcoming.
– **Hungary**: Accessible through Adyen, Global Payments, myPOS, Revolut, SumUp, Viva, and Worldline.
– **Liechtenstein**: Backed by Adyen.
– **Poland**: Functions with Adyen, eService with PKO Bank, Mollie, Stripe, SumUp, Viva, and Worldline; Planet Pay, Revolut, and PeP (part of Nexi) are on the way.
– **Portugal**: Supported by Adyen, Mollie, myPOS, Revolut, Stripe, SumUp, and Viva.
– **Slovakia**: Available through Adyen, Global Payments Slovenská Sporitel’ňa, Revolut, and Worldline; SumUp is expected to join shortly.
– **Slovenia**: Supported by Adyen, Revolut, and Worldline; SumUp and hobex are anticipated soon.
– **Switzerland**: Operates with Adyen, Mollie, myPOS, Nexi, Stripe, SumUp, and Worldline; hobex is expected shortly.

This expansion not only enhances the availability of **Tap to Pay on iPhone** but also enriches the payment methods accessible to consumers in these regions.

## Integration with Accounting Software

In the United States, the integration of **Tap to Pay on iPhone** with accounting software has also emerged as a recent advancement. Intuit announced a QuickBooks integration that enables businesses to seamlessly incorporate contactless payments into their accounting application. This integration simplifies financial management for small business owners, facilitating easier tracking of sales and finances.

## Conclusion

**Tap to Pay on iPhone** is establishing a new benchmark for contactless payments, particularly for small businesses aiming for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. With its recent launch into nine additional countries, Apple is not only enhancing the payment journey for consumers but also empowering small business owners to succeed in a competitive environment. As technology continues to advance, features like these will certainly play an instrumental role in shaping the future of commerce.

For further details on how to utilize this technology for your business, check out the

“Spike Jonze Unveils Short Film Starring Pedro Pascal for AirPods 4”

### Apple Introduces New Short Film by Spike Jonze Starring Pedro Pascal to Highlight AirPods 4

In a clever marketing strategy, Apple has recently hinted at a new short film directed by renowned filmmaker Spike Jonze, featuring the skilled Pedro Pascal. This film, named *Someday*, serves as a distinctive medium to emphasize the Active Noise Cancellation feature of Apple’s newest audio device, the AirPods 4.

#### The Film: *Someday*

The short film, with a runtime of just over five and a half minutes, is now accessible for viewing. While the film’s storyline and artistic aspects have yet to be thoroughly examined by viewers, the partnership between Jonze and Pascal has already sparked considerable excitement. The film seeks to illustrate how the AirPods 4 can improve the listening experience by effectively eliminating background noise, enabling users to fully engage with their audio content.

#### Spike Jonze: A Creative Filmmaker

Spike Jonze, born Adam Spiegel, is a distinguished filmmaker celebrated for his inventive storytelling and visual approach. He initially gained fame in the 1990s through his work in BMX and skateboarding photography and films. Jonze’s filmography includes critically acclaimed titles such as *Being John Malkovich*, *Adaptation*, *Where the Wild Things Are*, and *Her*. His film *Her* garnered him an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a Writers Guild of America Award for Best Original Screenplay, reinforcing his position as one of the most impactful directors of his era.

#### Previous Collaborations with Apple

This marks Jonze’s second collaboration with Apple. In 2018, he directed a short film called “Welcome Home,” which featured the HomePod and starred dancer FKA Twigs. This visually captivating advertisement won the Advertising Excellence/Single Commercial category at the AICP Awards, highlighting Jonze’s skill in seamlessly merging art with advertising.

#### The Benefits of Active Noise Cancellation

The Active Noise Cancellation feature in the AirPods 4 is crafted to offer users an immersive listening experience by obstructing unwanted outside sounds. This technology is especially advantageous in loud environments, enabling users to concentrate on their music, podcasts, or calls without interruptions. By incorporating this technology into a creative storyline, Apple aims to showcase its practical advantages in a relatable and engaging way.

#### Conclusion

Apple’s collaboration with Spike Jonze and Pedro Pascal for the short film *Someday* exemplifies the company’s dedication to innovative marketing techniques that resonate with audiences. By utilizing Jonze’s artistic skills and Pascal’s star appeal, Apple not only promotes its products but also enriches the cultural scene with enchanting storytelling. As viewers engage with the film, they will likely develop a deeper understanding of the capabilities of the AirPods 4 and the creative efforts behind its promotion.

For those eager to see the film, it is now available for viewing, promising an engaging exploration of sound and silence in contemporary life.

Investigating Homebrew for Corporate Administration on macOS: Perspectives from the Apple @ Work Podcast

# Managing Homebrew at Scale on macOS: Insights from Workbrew

In the dynamic realm of technology, efficient software installation management is vital for organizations utilizing macOS devices. Homebrew stands out as one of the most favored package managers for macOS, streamlining the software installation and management process. In a recent episode of the Apple @ Work podcast, host Bradley conversed with John Britton from Workbrew, a firm dedicated to managing Homebrew at scale. This article explores the essential insights shared during their dialogue and emphasizes the significance of proficient package management within a corporate setting.

## Understanding Homebrew

Homebrew serves as an open-source package manager tailored for macOS, enabling users to effortlessly install, update, and oversee software packages. It offers a command-line interface that facilitates the installation of applications and libraries absent from the Mac App Store. Homebrew enjoys particular favor among developers and IT professionals, attributed to its adaptability and user-friendliness.

## The Challenge of Scaling Homebrew

Though Homebrew proves to be an effective tool for individual users, scaling its management presents distinct challenges for organizations. As businesses expand and their technological requirements grow more intricate, IT departments must guarantee that software installations remain consistent, secure, and up-to-date across all devices. This is where Workbrew steps in.

### Key Challenges Discussed:

1. **Consistency**: Ensuring uniform software versions across all users can be challenging, especially in larger organizations where different teams may have diverse requirements.

2. **Security**: Keeping software updated is vital for maintaining security. Outdated software can create vulnerabilities that malicious entities could exploit.

3. **Automation**: Manual software installations and updates can be tedious and subject to human error. Automating these processes can conserve time and minimize the risk of errors.

4. **User Experience**: Striking a balance between maintaining oversight of software installations and providing a smooth user experience is an ongoing challenge for IT departments.

## Workbrew’s Approach

John Britton offered insights on how Workbrew tackles these challenges by delivering a solution that integrates smoothly with Homebrew. Their methodology prioritizes automation, consistency, and security, enabling organizations to effectively manage software installations.

### Key Features of Workbrew:

– **Centralized Management**: Workbrew provides a centralized platform for overseeing Homebrew installations across numerous devices, ensuring all users have access to the same tools and versions.

– **Automated Updates**: The platform automates software update processes, alleviating the workload on IT teams and guaranteeing that all devices operate with the latest versions.

– **Security Monitoring**: Workbrew incorporates features for tracking software vulnerabilities, assisting organizations in staying ahead of potential security risks.

– **User-Friendly Interface**: With a user-friendly interface, Workbrew simplifies the management of software installations for IT departments while minimizing disruptions for end-users.

## Conclusion

As organizations increasingly depend on macOS devices, effective package management becomes paramount. Homebrew is a powerful instrument for software installation management, yet scaling its application across an organization can be formidable. Workbrew presents a comprehensive response to these challenges, empowering IT departments to manage Homebrew proficiently while ensuring security and uniformity.

For those interested in delving deeper into managing Homebrew at scale, the complete discussion with John Britton can be accessed in the latest episode of the Apple @ Work podcast. Furthermore, organizations seeking a solid solution to manage their Apple devices should contemplate exploring Mosyle, the exclusive Apple Unified Platform that consolidates all essential solutions for deploying, managing, and safeguarding Apple devices in the workplace.

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For additional insights and dialogues about managing Apple devices in the office, don’t forget to subscribe to the Apple @ Work podcast and keep informed of the latest trends and solutions within the Apple ecosystem.

Fresh Speculations Indicate iPhone 17 May Feature 24-Megapixel Front Camera Along with Extra Capabilities

# Recent Speculations on the iPhone 17 Series: What to Anticipate

As excitement grows for Apple’s forthcoming flagship device, the iPhone 17, new reports have illuminated some thrilling features and specifications anticipated in the next iteration. Analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities has offered insights indicating substantial enhancements, especially in camera technology and processing capabilities.

## Notable Features of the iPhone 17 Series

Per Pu’s analysis, the iPhone 17 lineup will comprise four models, each featuring a 24-megapixel front camera. This represents a significant upgrade from the existing 12-megapixel front camera that has been standard since the launch of the iPhone 11 in 2019. The increase in front camera resolution is expected to enhance selfies and video calls, responding to the increasing demand for high-quality front-facing cameras.

### Pro Models with Superior Camera Functionality

The Pro versions of the iPhone 17 are anticipated to showcase a new 48-megapixel telephoto sensor, a major advancement compared to the current 12-megapixel zoom camera. This upgrade is particularly significant as it aligns with Apple’s continuous efforts to improve the photographic capabilities of its devices. Last year, it was reported that Apple was testing 8K video recording capabilities for the iPhone 16 Pro, although this feature was ultimately delayed due to constraints of the current telephoto lens.

Regarding performance, the iPhone 17 Pro models are set to be driven by the A19 Pro chip and will come with 12GB of RAM. This blend is expected to enable advanced functionalities, including enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities. Moreover, every model in the iPhone 17 lineup will support Wi-Fi 7, a feature currently exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro models. However, it is important to note that only the iPhone 17 Air will incorporate Apple’s C1 modem, although there is speculation that this might change.

## Unveiling the iPhone 17 Air

The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be an ultra-slim variant, featuring a 6.6-inch display and an impressive thickness of just 5.5 millimeters, making it the slimmest iPhone so far. Yet, analysts believe that the iPhone 17 Air may not attract consumers as much due to its inferior specifications compared to the Pro models. It is expected to sport a single 48-megapixel rear camera, akin to the iPhone 16e, and will be equipped with the standard A19 chip instead of the more sophisticated Pro variant.

Interestingly, the iPhone 17 Air is forecasted to be made of titanium, while the Pro models are likely to be constructed from aluminum. This material choice could influence the overall weight and robustness of the devices.

## The Prospects of Foldable Devices

Alongside the iPhone 17 series, Pu has also hinted at Apple’s ambitions for foldable devices. He forecasts that the company will launch its first foldable iPhone by late 2026, followed by a foldable iPad or Mac in 2027. These innovative devices are expected to significantly boost Apple’s average selling price (ASP), reflecting a shift in consumer inclination towards groundbreaking form factors.

## Conclusion

As Apple prepares for the eagerly awaited unveiling of the iPhone 17 in September, the latest rumors indicate an emphasis on elevating camera technology and processing capabilities across the series. With the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air and the prospect of foldable devices in the future, Apple continues to innovate and respond to the changing smartphone landscape. While some analysts voice concerns regarding possible postponements of new features, the enthusiasm surrounding the iPhone 17 remains strong among tech aficionados and consumers alike.

Stay tuned for additional updates as we near the official announcement of the iPhone 17 lineup.

Apple Ready to Launch Enhanced 5G Modem in iPhone 18 Pro Variants

# Apple’s Journey with 5G Modems: C1 to C2 and Further

Apple has made remarkable advancements in the telecom industry with the launch of its inaugural in-house 5G modem, the C1 chip, which appears in the newly released iPhone 16e. This development signifies a crucial turning point for Apple as it seeks to lessen its dependence on Qualcomm, a longstanding provider of mobile modems. Moreover, the firm’s ambitions for its modem technology go further than the current iteration, with anticipation building for the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro models.

## Apple’s Vision for the 5G Modem in the iPhone 18 Pro

As per analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities, Apple is already in the process of developing a new iteration of its modem, provisionally called the C2 chip, which is set to launch in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max by 2026. This timeframe coincides with a recent Bloomberg report suggesting that the C2 chip would be rolled out in premium iPhones the following year.

The C1 chip, which merges 4-nanometer baseband technology with 7-nanometer transceiver technology, has demonstrated encouraging results regarding efficiency and power usage. Assessments have shown that the C1 modem in the iPhone 16e competes admirably with Qualcomm’s products in numerous situations, although it presently does not support the elevated 5G mmWave speeds that some users might anticipate.

## The Prospects of Apple’s Modem Technology

As Apple strives to enhance its modem technology, uncertainties linger about the deployment of the C1 chip in forthcoming iPhone models. Although there are signs that the C1 chip could be featured in the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air later this year, speculation surrounds a potential delay in this rollout. It remains ambiguous whether the basic iPhone 18 version will integrate the C1 chip or if it will continue utilizing Qualcomm modems for an additional year.

Given the pivotal role that modems play in smartphone functionality, Apple is expected to move forward with caution, ensuring that its modem technology aligns with the elevated standards anticipated by customers. The company’s aim is to develop a modem capable of competing strongly against Qualcomm’s offerings, granting users stable connectivity and high-speed data access.

## Wider Implications for Apple’s Product Range

Aside from the iPhone, there is a possibility for the C1 chip to find applications in other Apple devices, including cellular variants of the iPad and Apple Watch. This expansion could further cement Apple’s standing in the market and lessen its reliance on external vendors.

As Apple continues to innovate and enhance its modem technology, the tech community will attentively monitor the performance and functionality of the C1 and forthcoming C2 chips. The success of these modems could profoundly impact the company’s future product releases and its overall strategy within the telecommunications sector.

## Conclusion

Apple’s venture into developing its own 5G modems signifies a notable transformation in its mobile technology strategy. With the introduction of the C1 chip in the iPhone 16e and the plans for the C2 chip in the iPhone 18 Pro models, Apple is gearing up to compete more vigorously in the smartphone arena. As the company refining its modem technology, consumers can anticipate innovations that will improve connectivity and enhance device performance in the years ahead.

YouTube Music Launches AI-Enhanced Radio Generator for iPhone Users

### YouTube Music Unveils New AI-Driven “Ask Music” Feature for iOS

In a major enhancement for music lovers, YouTube Music has introduced its AI-driven “Ask Music” radio generator for users on iPhone and iPad. Initially rolled out for Android devices in September 2024, this feature is now available to iOS users, transforming how audiences discover and enjoy music.

#### What is “Ask Music”?

The “Ask Music” feature enables users to create tailored radio stations based on specific requests. Once the update is complete, users will encounter an “Ask for music” section prominently featured in the Home tab of the app. This section includes a carousel of ten suggested prompts, allowing users to initiate a custom radio station with a simple tap.

Beyond the preset prompts, users can also take advantage of the “Ask any way you like” input field. This option includes a voice input feature, permitting users to convey their preferred listening experience, mood, or activity. YouTube Music’s AI is crafted to understand both concise and elaborate prompts, catering to diverse user preferences.

#### How Does It Function?

When a user provides a prompt, YouTube Music requires a few seconds to craft a personalized radio station. The app utilizes existing station cards to assemble a distinct listening journey. Users will observe the first three tracks from their new station, with autoplay activated. Moreover, there’s an “Add to library” feature, enabling users to save their freshly created station for later enjoyment. Each station also includes a brief and engaging description, adding an enjoyable aspect to the experience.

This feature works alongside the existing Music Tuner functionality, which lets users choose artists and specify options like artist variety, music exploration, and filters. Users can access this functionality through the Library tab by tapping the New FAB (floating action button) and selecting Radio.

#### Subscription Requirements and Availability

To access the “Ask Music” feature, users need to have a YouTube Music or Music Premium subscription. As of December 2024, the feature is accessible in various countries, including the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Google has indicated intentions to broaden its availability to additional countries, and iOS support has just been activated with the launch of version 8.10+ of the app.

#### Conclusion

YouTube Music’s “Ask Music” feature marks a notable leap forward in personalized music exploration. By leveraging AI capabilities, the app enriches the user experience, simplifying the process for listeners to find tracks that suit their mood or activity. As the feature continues to expand worldwide, it holds the promise of reshaping how users engage with music streaming services.

For more updates regarding YouTube Music and its offerings, keep an eye on tech news outlets and the official YouTube Music blog.

Google Unveils ‘Severance’ Easter Egg Ahead of Season Two Finale This Week

# The Thrilling Severance Easter Egg on Google

As enthusiasts eagerly await the season two conclusion of *Severance*, an innovative sci-fi series on Apple TV+, Google has rolled out a charming Easter egg that is bound to delight viewers. This entertaining addition showcases the show’s rising popularity and the inventive ways in which the tech industry interacts with its audience.

## What is the Severance Easter Egg?

In a fun reference to the series, Google has launched a feature that triggers when users look up “Severance.” As mentioned by the show’s director, Ben Stiller, a torrent of blue balloons dances across the screen. This playful animation alludes to the blue Lumon balloons that Mr. Milchick gives to Mark S., a key character, upon his reentry into the office. These balloons have become iconic motifs within the series, especially noted in the premiere episode of the second season.

To experience this enjoyable Easter egg, simply navigate to Google on your computer or mobile device and search for “Severance.” Once the search results populate, click on the confetti button to view the balloon animation in action.

## Apple’s Engaging Promotion

Beyond Google’s Easter egg, Apple has also adopted the *Severance* theme with an interactive website. The site, available at