Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**iPhone Security: The Significance of Lockdown Mode and Recent Developments**

The security of iPhones has attracted considerable focus lately as Apple tackles weaknesses within its software. The company has issued updates for known vulnerabilities, urging users with outdated iOS versions to upgrade their devices without delay. Along with these updates, Apple has underscored the efficacy of its Lockdown Mode in thwarting hacking attempts.

### iPhones in Lockdown Mode Have Yet to Be Hacked

Launched in 2022, Lockdown Mode is a feature aimed at shielding iPhone, iPad, and Mac users from “exceptionally rare and highly sophisticated cyber threats.” Apple highlights that this mode is meant for those who might be targeted due to their identity or occupation, rendering it an essential tool for individuals at risk.

Lockdown Mode substantially modifies the device’s functionality to reduce possible attack surfaces. Users need to understand that activating this mode will limit certain apps, websites, and features, which could result in a less familiar user interface.

#### Notable Changes in Lockdown Mode

1. **Messages**: The majority of message attachments are restricted, permitting only particular images, videos, and audio. Features like hyperlinks and link previews are also turned off.

2. **Web Browsing**: Elaborate web technologies are limited, which may result in slower loading times for websites or operational problems. Moreover, web fonts might not render, and images could be substituted with missing image icons.

3. **Wireless Connectivity**: The device will refrain from automatically connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks and will sever connections when Lockdown Mode is engaged. Support for 2G and 3G cellular networks is also turned off.

While Lockdown Mode may appear extreme, it acts as a potent safeguard for users prone to advanced hacking efforts. Apple has affirmed that, thus far, there have been no successful mercenary spyware attacks against devices in Lockdown Mode. This guarantee illustrates the feature’s dependability for those in need of heightened security.

### Significance of Regular Updates

Apart from Lockdown Mode, Apple is proactively informing users with obsolete iOS versions about essential security updates. For devices that are unable to update for any reason, Lockdown Mode offers a crucial layer of defense against possible threats.

In summary, as cyber threats continue to change, the significance of strong security strategies like Lockdown Mode and timely software updates is undeniable. Users are urged to utilize these features to protect their devices from progressively sophisticated attacks.

**Apple TV Welcomes Back Friday Night Baseball: Subscription and Viewing Guide**

Major League Baseball (MLB) has officially commenced its 2026 season, and Apple TV is ready to deliver thrilling baseball excitement through its Friday Night Baseball series. The inaugural doubleheader of the season is scheduled for tonight, March 27, showcasing two exhilarating matchups: the Los Angeles Angels taking on the Houston Astros at 8:15 p.m. ET, followed by the Cleveland Guardians squaring off against the Seattle Mariners at 9:45 p.m. ET.

To experience all the action, fans can sign up for Apple TV, which provides a monthly subscription priced at $12.99. This subscription grants access not only to all MLB Friday Night Baseball games but also includes additional sports programming like Formula 1 and Major League Soccer, as well as a diverse selection of TV shows and movies, featuring popular titles such as “F1: The Movie” and “Ted Lasso.”

Subscribers can access all Apple TV offerings through the Apple TV app, which is compatible with numerous platforms. Importantly, you don’t need an Apple device to subscribe or view Friday Night Baseball. The Apple TV app is available on:

– Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL, and more)
– Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices
– Chromecast with Google TV
– PlayStation and Xbox gaming systems
– Any iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV 4K device, Vision Pro
– By visiting tv.apple.com

In addition to baseball content, Apple TV subscribers can also benefit from a limited-time offer to access Peacock for just $2/month, allowing for even more MLB games and sports content.

For those keen on viewing the complete schedule of forthcoming MLB games on Apple TV, further information can be found in various online resources. Apple TV is available for $12.99 monthly, with promotional discounts through the Apple One bundle.

With the revival of Friday Night Baseball, fans can anticipate an exhilarating season filled with exciting matchups and the ease of streaming via Apple TV.

Reports have been suggesting for some time that the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will include various design enhancements. A recent leak indicates that one of these alterations—a more compact Dynamic Island—will also be applied to additional models within the iPhone 18 range.

### Dynamic Island May Reduce in Size for iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2, Not Exclusively the iPhone 18 Pro

Weibo leaker Ice Universe recently shared information about the Dynamic Island and bezels of the iPhone 18 series. The translated post suggests that for the iPhone 18 series, the black bezels will remain the same, while the Dynamic Island will be diminished in size. This indicates that the bezels will be similar to those of the iPhone 17 series.

The reference to a smaller Dynamic Island for “the iPhone 18 series” implies that this characteristic may extend beyond just the iPhone 18 Pro. Historically, reports regarding design modifications have largely concentrated on the Pro models, but this leak suggests a more extensive rollout.

In a significant departure from prior years, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to launch this fall, while the standard iPhone 18 is not projected to be available until early 2027. This shift in timeline may clarify why earlier reports focused on the Pro models in relation to the Dynamic Island.

### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

There is doubt regarding whether Apple will swiftly introduce the updated Dynamic Island across more iPhone variations. Typically, design innovations debut with the premium models before gradually reaching the lower-end variants. If the standard iPhone 18 does obtain the more compact Dynamic Island, it would be a welcome surprise.

Should the iPhone Air 2 release this fall, as some anticipate, it might stand a better chance of incorporating the new Dynamic Island. Apple is likely looking to enhance the Air 2’s attractiveness, particularly since it could take a further generation before a second rear camera is incorporated.

It’s conceivable that all models launching this fall will feature the updated design, while the standard iPhone 18 may not include it upon its release in spring.

Which new models do you think will receive Apple’s new, smaller Dynamic Island? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Managing Video Storage on iPhone: A Guide to Filtering and Sorting

Apple’s Photos application is designed for ease of use, but this simplicity has resulted in some significant drawbacks, particularly regarding the handling of video files. A key limitation is the lack of options to sort or filter videos by duration or file size, which can be an essential feature for users aiming to clear up space on their iPhones.

#### The Challenge of Video Storage

With the advent of high-resolution video recording capabilities on iPhones, users frequently end up with an abundance of videos that may only be pertinent for a limited period. These lengthy videos can swiftly take up storage, making it vital to pinpoint and eliminate unwanted files. Regrettably, iOS does not offer a direct method to filter videos based on size or duration, which can complicate storage management.

#### A Solution via Shortcuts

Fortunately, a workaround exists. A Reddit user named FrozenMaize has developed a handy Shortcut that enables iPhone users to gather all of their lengthier videos into a specific album. This Shortcut can be tailored to indicate the desired video length in minutes and the title of the album in which the videos will be saved.

The Shortcut functions effectively, even when handling thousands of video files. Once the videos are sorted into one album, users can conveniently browse through them to locate and discard those that are no longer necessary.

#### How to Use the Shortcut

1. **Download the Shortcut**: Access the Shortcut made by FrozenMaize [here](https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/4c205edbe352428dbe2f9afb25bb1f07).
2. **Customize Settings**: Modify the Shortcut to establish your preferred video length and album title.
3. **Run the Shortcut**: Activate the Shortcut to collect all videos that fit your criteria into a single album.
4. **Review and Delete**: Examine the album to decide which videos can be eliminated to create more storage space.

#### Conclusion

Although Apple’s Photos app may be missing certain functionalities, user-generated Shortcuts offer valuable solutions for organizing video content. If you have discovered other beneficial Shortcuts that improve the utility of Apple’s native apps, sharing them can assist others in overcoming similar issues with video management.

**iyO Broadens Legal Action Against OpenAI: Claims of Trade Secret Theft**

In a recent turn of events, iyO, a startup focused on hearing devices, has expanded its lawsuit against OpenAI, claiming that private designs were accessed by Tang Tan, a former Apple designer and co-founder of io. This development introduces a new aspect to the existing lawsuit that initially centered on trademark issues.

**Case Background**

The dispute originated from OpenAI’s acquisition of io, an AI firm launched by the acclaimed designer Jony Ive, nearly a year prior. Following this acquisition, iyO initiated a trademark lawsuit, asserting that OpenAI’s similar branding would create confusion for consumers and undermine iyO’s brand equity, especially since both are active in the same market segment. iyO specializes in AI-driven earpieces and had earlier discussed their technology with OpenAI.

In reply, OpenAI argued that iyO’s CEO, Jason Rugolo, had willingly disclosed sensitive information regarding his company’s technology and even suggested selling iyO for $200 million after OpenAI opted against investing. OpenAI further clarified that its initial product would not be an AI-focused wearable, contrary to earlier assumptions.

Despite OpenAI’s efforts to separate itself from the io branding, the lawsuit continued, resulting in procedural hearings and appeals.

**New Claims from iyO**

On March 13, iyO submitted an amended complaint, significantly escalating the lawsuit by alleging trade secret misappropriation. The filing alleges that Dan Sargent, a former iyO engineer, downloaded confidential documents and shared them with Tang Tan. This breach reportedly involved CAD files, physical prototypes, and detailed design information, which iyO believes expedited io’s product development by nearly ten years.

The amended complaint describes the alleged breach, mentioning that Sargent accessed internal directories, downloaded multiple files, and disguised them with nonsensical titles before exporting the CAD data. This activity is said to have taken place just days before a dinner in San Francisco where Tan evaluated internal documents and product samples alongside an engineer from LoveFrom, Jony Ive’s design firm.

**Prospective Outcomes**

The court’s ruling on whether to allow these amended claims to move forward is still pending, as is OpenAI’s upcoming response. As the legal case progresses, further documents pertaining to this amendment are anticipated to be released shortly.

For those seeking comprehensive details regarding the new filing, it is accessible for review [here](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.cand.450913/gov.uscourts.cand.450913.119.0.pdf).

Apple Original Films is preparing to broaden its science fiction portfolio with a new project named “Liminal,” which is inspired by the acclaimed graphic novel “Telepaths” authored by J. Michael Straczynski. The film will be helmed by Louis Leterrier, noted for his direction in “Lupin,” and will feature Vanessa Kirby, acclaimed for her performance in “Pieces of a Woman,” alongside Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, well-known for his role in “Watchmen.”

The narrative of “Liminal” centers on an electromagnetic anomaly that activates telepathic powers in a tenth of the Earth’s inhabitants. As society comes to terms with this newfound reality, a contingent of police officers from Boston, now possessing telepathic skills, face a wrongly imprisoned individual who rises as a leader for fellow telepaths. The plot delves into themes of bravery and reliability, as both the officers and the inmate navigate a realm where their gifts render them targets.

J. Michael Straczynski, the mind behind the legendary sci-fi series “Babylon 5” and co-creator of Netflix’s “Sense8,” boasts an extensive background in both television and film, having contributed to titles like “Changeling,” “Ninja Assassin,” and “Underworld: Awakening.”

Although Apple has yet to reveal further specifics regarding casting or a premiere date, it is expected that the film will require some time for completion before it becomes accessible on Apple TV. Presently, Apple TV provides a subscription service priced at $12.99 monthly, offering a range of popular films and series.

As excitement mounts for “Liminal,” enthusiasts of science fiction and graphic novels are keen to witness how this adaptation materializes on screen.

### For All Mankind Season Five: A New Chapter in Space Drama

The fifth installment of *For All Mankind* is currently streaming on Apple TV, signifying an important moment for admirers of the celebrated space drama. New episodes will drop weekly every Friday, leading to the series’ second-to-last season. Filming for the sixth and concluding season is already underway, and a spin-off entitled *Star City* is scheduled to debut at the end of May.

#### An Uncommon Narrative Voyage

*For All Mankind* is recognized for its fascinating time shifts at the beginning of each season. The series delves into an alternate timeline where the Soviet Union was the first to land on the Moon, changing the trajectory of space exploration. Season five transports viewers to the 2010s, where a bustling base on Mars sustains a population of thousands. However, conflicts emerge as Earth-dwelling governments pursue increased control over the activities of the Martian settlement. The storyline intensifies with an unforeseen death that provokes a discourse on Martian law and governance.

#### Familiar Faces and Fresh Developments

Joel Kinnaman returns to his role as astronaut Ed Baldwin, who is now portrayed as an 80-year-old character, demonstrating the impacts of aging through elaborate makeup and prosthetics. Other cherished characters, such as Margo (Wrenn Schmidt), Miles (Toby Kebbell), and Kelly Baldwin (Cynthy Wu), are anticipated to have substantial storylines this season. Fans can expect dramatic twists and turns throughout the ten episodes, as the series progresses towards its finale in the sixth season.

#### How to Stream

*For All Mankind* is solely accessible on the Apple TV streaming platform. Subscriptions are available at $12.99 per month, or viewers can gain access through the Apple One bundle. A single subscription permits sharing with up to six individuals via Family Sharing. The Apple TV app is compatible with a range of devices, including Apple products, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, smart TVs, PlayStation, Xbox, and is also reachable through a web browser at tv.apple.com.

#### Upcoming Releases on Apple TV

Besides the new season of *For All Mankind*, Apple TV presents an exhilarating roster of content set for release, featuring the second season of *Your Friends & Neighbors*, a fresh film titled *Outcome* starring Keanu Reeves, and the high-profile drama series *Margo’s Got Money Troubles* launching on April 15. The mystery horror series *Widow’s Bay* will premiere on April 29, among other awaited titles.

As *For All Mankind* enters its fifth season, audiences can anticipate an exhilarating examination of space, politics, and human interactions, all framed within the context of an alternate history that continues to enthrall viewers.

Starting today, certain App Store applications are required to state whether they are classified as regulated medical devices in the US, UK, and Europe. Here are the specifics.

### Developers have until early 2027 to adhere

As stated in a recent post on Apple’s Developer blog, “the App Store will now indicate if an app is a regulated medical device on its product page in the European Economic Area (EEA), United Kingdom, or United States.”

This obligation pertains to apps that fulfill at least one of the following criteria:

– Its main or secondary category is Health & Fitness or Medical
– It’s identified as having frequent references to Medical or Treatment Information in the Age Rating questionnaire in App Store Connect

In such instances, developers will be required to “submit a regulated medical device status in App Store Connect, along with pertinent regulatory details, such as contact information and safety information.”

Apple mentions that while this new rule begins today for new apps uploaded to the App Store, developers will have until “early 2027” to indicate the medical device status for existing applications.

After the deadline (which remains unspecified beyond “early 2027”), however, they will be unable to submit updates for those applications.

To find out more about the announcement, follow this link.

### Apple Exposed Hide My Email User After Threat

Apple’s terms of service explicitly indicate that the company may reveal user information to law enforcement under certain conditions. This policy reflects Apple’s dedication to transparency, which encompasses the publication of biannual reports that outline requests for user data from authorities.

A significant case expected to feature in Apple’s forthcoming transparency report involves Alden Ruml, who employed iCloud+’s Hide My Email functionality to send a menacing email to Alexis Wilkins, the partner of FBI Director Kash Patel. The Hide My Email feature is intended to assist users in managing spam by enabling them to create distinct email aliases.

After the threat was received, Wilkins reached out to law enforcement, prompting them to seek records from Apple concerning the iCloud alias utilized in the email. Apple fulfilled the request, disclosing Ruml’s real identity and his genuine iCloud email address. Notably, this was merely one of 134 email aliases he had established.

In the aftermath of this revelation, law enforcement interrogated Ruml, who admitted to sending the threatening communication. This resulted in a grand jury accusing him of transmitting a threat in interstate commerce. The FBI is now pursuing access to data stored on Ruml’s devices, requesting warrants to search his phones, including authorization to bypass security measures.

For additional information regarding this matter, consult the complete report by 404 Media.

VSCO is enhancing its AI Lab with five new AI-driven editing tools for photographers, increasing the total to eight. Here’s an overview of the updates.

Since the introduction of AI Lab last year, VSCO has been consistently incorporating filters designed for both hobbyist and professional photographers seeking to simplify their editing workflow.

In January, AI Lab received a prompt-based image editing interface, which complemented the Upscale tool that enlarges images up to four times their original resolution, as well as the Remove tool, which allows users to effortlessly eliminate unwanted items from their photos.

Now, VSCO has introduced five additional features to AI Lab, which include:

– **Dehaze:** Revive contrast and color depth in dull, cloudy, or foggy outdoor photos.
– **Denoise:** Automatically eliminate unwanted grain, dust, scratches, and high-ISO distortions while safeguarding your photo’s natural texture.
– **Hairstyle:** Smartly reshape and enhance hair—boosting form, volume, and definition while maintaining a natural look.
– **Restore:** Revive and improve old photos by brightening faded colors, sharpening lost details, and minimizing visible damage such as scratches and dust.
– **Simplify:** Minimize background distractions and visual noise with a single click. Simplify ensures your subject stands out—particularly in crowded urban, travel, or event images.

To discover more about VSCO AI Labs and how to access it for free, follow this link.