Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple’s Head of Design Alan Dye Departs for Meta

**Alan Dye Exits Apple for Meta: A Change in Design Leadership**

Alan Dye, who has been the vice president of Human Interface Design at Apple since 2015, is preparing to leave the company to join Meta. This transition aligns with Meta’s approach to strengthening its portfolio of AI-enabled consumer devices, according to Bloomberg. Dye’s official start at Meta is set for December 31, 2025.

Steping into Dye’s position at Apple will be Stephen Lemay, a veteran in design with 26 years of experience at the company. Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, voiced his confidence in Lemay’s skills, emphasizing his substantial contributions to Apple’s design heritage since 1999. Cook remarked, “Design is essential to our identity at Apple, and today, we have an exceptional design team working on the most groundbreaking product lineup in our history.”

Dye’s exit occurs as Apple’s executive leadership had been expecting modifications in its design leadership. At Meta, he will lead a new design studio concentrating on the amalgamation of hardware, software, and AI within the company’s product spectrum. Moreover, Billy Sorrentino, a design executive at Apple, is also departing to join Meta, reflecting a wider trend of talent transitioning from Apple to rival companies.

Throughout his time at Apple, Dye was crucial in several major projects, especially following the departure of famed designer Jony Ive in 2019. His latest accomplishments include overseeing the significant Liquid Glass redesign in iOS 26 and introducing a new design language at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. He also played a key role in the design of the Apple Vision Pro and visionOS.

This leadership change at Apple is part of a broader series of shifts within the organization. Recently, John Giannandrea, the senior vice president for Machine Learning and AI Strategy, declared his retirement, effective spring 2026. Other significant exits include COO Jeff Williams and CFO Luca Maestri, further indicating a transitional period for Apple. There is also speculation regarding Tim Cook’s possible departure as CEO, which may happen as early as next year.

The departure of crucial personnel isn’t confined to Apple alone; Jony Ive’s design agency, LoveFrom, and OpenAI have also recruited former Apple designers, collaborating on AI-driven hardware projects under the brand io.

As Apple experiences this transition phase, the effects of these leadership changes on its design ideology and product advancement remain to be observed.

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Apple Broadens Health Capabilities of Apple Watch and AirPods to More Regions

### Apple’s Global Deployment of Health and Assistive Features Proceeds

Apple is broadening its health and assistive capabilities worldwide, as noted by MacRumors. The newest enhancements consist of hypertension alerts for Apple Watch users in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam. This functionality employs 30-day heart data gathered by the Apple Watch to notify users regarding possible hypertension concerns. Although it might not capture every case of hypertension, Apple projects that more than 1 million users will gain from this feature during its inaugural year of release.

Alongside hypertension alerts, Apple is launching Sleep Apnea notifications in Colombia. This functionality observes breathing irregularities during sleep and alerts users if there are recurrent indications of moderate to severe sleep apnea.

Additionally, Apple is unveiling numerous assistive features for AirPods in various European nations, including the UK, Germany, Austria, Poland, Switzerland, Finland, Norway, Ireland, and Denmark. These features include a Hearing Test and a Hearing Aid with automatic Conversation Boost, designed to assist users in recognizing hearing challenges and refining their AirPods settings to suit personal requirements.

For further details about these features, you can visit Apple’s support page.

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ExpressVPN Introduces Native App for Mac Users

### ExpressVPN Announcement: Upgraded Mac App and New iOS Feature

ExpressVPN has recently unveiled major updates, featuring a native Mac application alongside a new connectivity feature for iOS users. This update signifies a considerable enhancement in user experience on both platforms.

#### Improved on the Mac, Quicker on iOS

For years, the Mac application of ExpressVPN was mainly a modified iteration of its iOS version. However, the recent update has introduced a fully native Mac app crafted using Apple’s Catalyst framework. This shift allows for enhanced integration with macOS, leading to multiple upgrades:

– **Enhanced Visuals**: The updated app provides smoother graphics and a more appealing interface.
– **Fluid Multitasking**: Users will experience more fluidity in window resizing and multitasking, facilitating easier task switching.
– **Refined Experience**: Minor tweaks lead to a more polished and user-friendly experience, whether users are changing servers or operating the app in the background.

Alongside the Mac app, ExpressVPN has updated its iOS application with a feature named “Fastest Location.” This new capability enables users to connect to the optimal server with just a tap, based on real-time evaluations of speed, latency, and server proximity.

The Fastest Location feature is introduced with a redesign of the app’s Home Screen, improving usability and accessibility for users. By assessing various criteria, the app identifies the best server option at any time, ensuring a smooth and effective connection.

For further insights on these updates, users can refer to the official ExpressVPN blog or look at coverage from MacMagazine.

#### Accessory Offers on Amazon

Alongside the software enhancements, users might also discover various accessory offers on Amazon, enriching their overall VPN service experience.

For more information and to explore the newest features, check out the ExpressVPN blog.

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Summary of the Four Latest Features in watchOS 26.2 for Apple Watch

# watchOS 26.2: New Features and Updates for Apple Watch

watchOS 26.2 is poised to deliver substantial updates and enhancements to the Apple Watch, as indicated by Apple’s official release notes. This article highlights the primary changes and improvements featured in this update.

## Key Updates in watchOS 26.2

### Refined Sleep Score

One of the standout updates in watchOS 26.2 is the enhancement of the Sleep Score feature. Apple has revised how sleep scores are categorized and how notifications function. These modifications aim to present users with a more precise representation of their sleep quality. Users can anticipate a revamped grading system that aligns more closely with their individual sleep patterns.

### Improved Safety Alerts

Another significant addition is the Improved Safety Alerts feature. This functionality will alert users to impending dangers such as floods, natural disasters, and various emergencies. The alerts will contain comprehensive information, including maps of affected regions and links to further safety instructions, although this feature is presently available solely in the United States.

### Music App Bug Resolution

The update also resolves a specific issue in the Music app where it failed to proceed to the next track. This correction is anticipated to enhance the overall experience for those who enjoy listening to music on their Apple Watch.

## Adherence to EU Regulations

In line with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple is adjusting how Wi-Fi networks are shared between iPhone and Apple Watch for users in the EU. This alteration is part of broader compliance initiatives and will take effect with the launch of iOS 26.2 and watchOS 26.2.

## Conclusion

The forthcoming watchOS 26.2 update promises to enrich the Apple Watch experience with better sleep tracking, essential safety alerts, and crucial bug fixes. Users can eagerly anticipate these enhancements, which are designed to make the Apple Watch an even more valuable resource for health and safety.

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9to5Mac Daily: December 3, 2025 – iOS 26.1 Made Available to All Users Along with Other Updates

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapid-moving realm of technology, keeping abreast of the latest updates is vital, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides an easy way to stay informed on the day’s key news, offering listeners thoughtful commentary and analysis on Apple-related subjects.

**Podcast Accessibility**

Listeners can tune into 9to5Mac Daily on multiple platforms, such as [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), Apple’s Podcasts app, [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), and through a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications. New episodes are recorded each weekday, guaranteeing that subscribers receive prompt updates.

**Sponsorship and Deals**

The podcast frequently highlights sponsorships and special offers. For example, Narwal has introduced discounts for Black Friday, featuring up to 49% off their complete product range. These promotions offer listeners chances to save on popular tech items.

**Subscription Perks**

Listeners can elevate their experience by subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus. This subscription grants access to ad-free episodes and additional content, making it a compelling choice for loyal listeners.

**Engagement and Input**

9to5Mac Daily promotes listener interaction. Fans can express their opinions by emailing

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Apple Unveils Release Candidate for iOS 26.2 for iPhone

**Apple Unveils iOS 26.2 Release Candidate for iPhone**

Apple has officially released the release candidate (RC) of iOS 26.2 for iPhone users, now accessible as an over-the-air update starting today. This update brings a range of new features and improvements designed to enhance user experience across multiple applications.

A key modification in iOS 26.2 is the update to the Sleep Score system. The highest rating has been changed from “Excellent” to “Very High,” accompanied by recalibrated thresholds for all categories. This change is in response to user feedback suggesting that the earlier scoring system was too lenient.

Alongside the updates to the Sleep Score, the Apple Podcasts app has seen substantial enhancements through artificial intelligence. The app now autonomously generates chapters, offers links to referenced podcasts, and organizes related content, facilitating easier navigation for users to enjoy their beloved shows.

The Apple News app has also experienced a redesign, showcasing a more polished layout that features quick links to favored sections. This upgrade is part of Apple’s persistent endeavors to enhance the design and functionality of its applications.

Another thrilling addition is the expansion of AirPods Live Translation, which will soon be accessible in European Union countries. This feature aims to improve communication across language differences, making conversations easier.

iOS 26.2 introduces a new Liquid Glass Lock Screen slider, enabling users to personalize the opacity of the clock with different fonts. This feature offers enhanced customization options for those wishing to elevate their lock screen visuals.

The Reminders app has acquired a new function to set off alarms and timers for urgent tasks, ensuring that critical notifications can cut through Focus modes for maximum visibility. This enhancement is intended to assist users in staying organized and managing their responsibilities effectively.

For CarPlay users, the update also brings the option to disable pinned conversations in the Messages app, delivering a more seamless experience while driving. Furthermore, the Measure app presents a redesigned level tool inspired by Liquid Glass, boosting its visual attractiveness.

Apple anticipates officially launching iOS 26.2 later this month, and ongoing updates will be shared concerning any modifications in the release candidate version. Users can expect these enhancements aimed at improving functionality and user interaction across Apple’s ecosystem.

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macOS Tahoe 26.2 Release Candidate Now Accessible for Developers and Public Beta Test Participants

### macOS Tahoe 26.2 Release Candidate Now Accessible for Developers and Public Beta

The macOS Tahoe 26.2 Release Candidate has been launched for developers and public beta users in advance of its official debut. This update mainly emphasizes bug resolutions and performance improvements, while also bringing a noteworthy new feature.

#### New Edge Light Feature and Behind-the-Scenes Enhancements

A key highlight in macOS Tahoe 26.2 is the **new Edge Light effect**, which provides a virtual ring light to boost the display quality of Mac computers. This function is designed to enhance the visual experience during video conferencing and content creation.

Alongside the Edge Light effect, Apple is focusing on various behind-the-scenes enhancements. Importantly, a **low-latency feature** is being added to support the establishment of Thunderbolt 5-enabled Mac clusters. Additionally, the Reminders app will see the introduction of an “Urgent” option, akin to the one being deployed in iOS 26.2.

Developers currently have access to the release build, labeled as version 25C56, and additional feedback from beta testing will be provided as it becomes available.

#### How to Install the New Developer Beta

For developers aiming to install the macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta RC, follow these steps:

1. [Backup](https://9to5mac.com/2023/03/31/how-to-backup-iphone-ipad-mac/) your Mac.
2. Open **System Settings**.
3. Proceed to **General** ⇾ **Software Update**.
4. Click the ‘i’ icon located next to **Beta Updates**.
5. From the dropdown menu in the top-right corner, choose **macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**.
6. Press ‘Done’.

#### How to Install macOS Tahoe 26.2 Public Beta

To install the public beta, you must first enroll in Apple’s public beta program at [Apple Beta Software Program](https://beta.apple.com/). After enrolling, proceed with the following steps:

1. Open **System Settings**.
2. Navigate to **General** ⇾ **Software Update**.
3. Click the ‘i’ icon next to **Beta Updates**.
4. From the dropdown menu in the top-right corner, select **macOS Tahoe 26 Public Beta**.
5. Press ‘Done’.

Users are encouraged to report any significant changes or features they find in the beta version in the comments section.

#### Accessory Deals on Amazon

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

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iPadOS 26.2 Release Candidate and Extra Updates Now Available Ahead of Soon-to-Be-Launched Version

Apple has recently launched the release candidate (RC) versions of its software updates, including iPadOS 26.2, as it nears the public launch phase. This article delves into what users can anticipate from these updates.

### Anticipations for iPadOS 26.2 RC and Beyond

The release candidates represent the last builds prior to the public deployment, unless any significant bugs arise that may require additional updates. The excitement surrounding iPadOS 26.2 is amplified by the enhancements observed in earlier beta versions, especially the reinstatement of drag and drop support for Split View and Slide Over multitasking, which had been removed with the advent of the new windowing system in iPadOS 26.0.

While the RC versions are not envisioned to unveil major new features, Apple is likely focusing on fine-tuning the software through bug resolutions and performance improvements as the launch date draws nearer. In addition to iPadOS 26.2, updates for watchOS 26.2, tvOS 26.2, and visionOS 26.2 are also expected to be available to users within the coming week.

Though substantial new features may not be imminent, minor enhancements could still arise. Users are invited to share their experiences and any new discoveries from the RC updates in the comments.

### Top iPad Accessories

For those aiming to enhance their iPad experience, exploring the finest accessories on offer can be advantageous. From protective cases to productivity tools, the right accessories can greatly boost usability and functionality.

In conclusion, as Apple gears up for the public release of iPadOS 26.2 and its associated updates, users can anticipate a more refined experience with potential minor enhancements. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the launch date approaches.

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MLB: The Show Debuts on iPhone, Providing Top-Tier Baseball Gaming Experience

**MLB: The Show Mobile – A New Epoch for Baseball Gaming on iPhone**

Attention, baseball aficionados! The cherished MLB: The Show series is heading to mobile platforms, with the game having officially soft launched in the Philippines. This represents a crucial milestone as it readies for a worldwide release soon.

As the 20th anniversary of the game’s initial launch nears, MLB: The Show is poised to make its debut on iPhone, providing fans the opportunity to interact with their favorite MLB teams in an innovative format. The game developers shared, “We’re bringing MLB The Show Mobile live in the Philippines. Authentic baseball gameplay on iOS and Android. This is just the beginning. We’re testing, learning, and working towards wider availability.”

The mobile adaptation is characterized as a “brand new independent experience developed from scratch to provide authentic baseball gameplay on mobile devices.” While it is currently downloadable only in the Philippines, a sample of the gameplay is accessible on the App Store.

The developers have yet to give a precise schedule for when the game will reach other areas or have its official launch. Nonetheless, it is crucial to highlight that there will be no cross-platform support between the mobile and console editions, and an iPad version is not currently in the pipeline.

MLB: The Show Mobile will necessitate iOS 26 for compatibility. Although previous iPhones running iOS 26 can play the game, users with iPhone 16 and more recent models will benefit from improved graphics, higher frame rates, and better resolutions.

For those eager to remain informed about the game’s release, registrations can be completed on the official website. The excitement for MLB: The Show Mobile is on the rise, and fans are keen to delve into baseball gaming in this new and portable format.

Stay alert for additional updates as the game prepares for its global launch!

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Apple Books Unveils Year in Review Highlighting Bestsellers of 2025

### Apple Books Introduces Year-End Highlights and Top Selections

As the year draws to a conclusion, numerous platforms are taking time to reflect on the last twelve months, and Apple Books follows suit. In conjunction with the recent debut of Apple Music Replay, Apple Books has rolled out its Year in Review feature for 2025, offering users a thorough recap of their reading tendencies throughout the year.

#### Summary of the Year in Review

Over the last few years, Apple Books has launched a Year in Review feature akin to those provided by Apple Music and Spotify. This functionality enables users to view a comprehensive summary of their reading engagements, such as:

– The overall count of books read
– Leading genres and authors
– Monthly analyses of reading habits

The 2025 Year in Review is now available within the Apple Books app, easily accessible on the Home tab for swift retrieval.

#### Top Books and Audiobooks of 2025

Alongside the Year in Review, Apple’s editorial staff has compiled collections of the top books and audiobooks for 2025. These picks underscore exceptional titles across a variety of genres, featuring both popular and critically acclaimed selections.

**Top Books of 2025** showcase a broad spectrum of titles that cater to diverse preferences and interests.

**Top Audiobooks of 2025** offer captivating narrations that enrich the listening experience, making them an excellent option for those who favor audio formats.

#### The Path Ahead for Apple Books

While the Year in Review and curated selections are thrilling features, there is ongoing speculation regarding the possibility of a subscription service similar to Audible or Kindle Unlimited. Many users express a wish for a Books+ subscription model that would provide more flexible access to a wide array of titles, aligning with current trends in media consumption.

Nonetheless, Apple Books continues to be a favored platform for numerous readers, delivering an intuitive interface and a vast repository of content.

#### Community Participation

Apple Books users are invited to share their opinions and experiences in the comments section. Whether you’re a long-time user or just starting with the platform, your contributions can enhance the ongoing dialogue about reading habits and preferences in the digital era.

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