AllYouCanTech

9to5Mac Daily: December 4, 2025 – Apple Design VP Leaves for Meta

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, being informed about the latest developments is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily acts as a dependable resource for daily summaries of the most important news within the Apple universe. The podcast can be accessed on numerous platforms, such as iTunes, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, and through a specific RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast applications.

**Daily Episodes and Content**

Fresh episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday, guaranteeing that listeners receive prompt updates on the newest events in the tech sphere. The podcast addresses a variety of subjects, including product reveals, software upgrades, and industry movements, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about Apple products and services.

**Subscription Benefits**

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**Engagement and Feedback**

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**Sponsorship and Promotions**

The podcast frequently includes sponsorships and promotional offers, such as the recent Black Friday deals from Narwal, which provided substantial discounts on their product range. These promotions give listeners chances to discover new products at lower prices while supporting the podcast.

**Conclusion**

For anyone wanting to stay updated on Apple news, 9to5Mac Daily is an essential resource. With its succinct format, captivating content, and dedication to listener engagement, it distinguishes itself as a leading podcast in the tech arena. Whether you’re a casual user or a devoted Apple enthusiast, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily will ensure you stay informed in the continuously changing tech landscape.

Rivian Set to Launch Apple Wallet Car Keys Compatibility in Upcoming Software Update for R1T and R1S Models

Rivian’s Chief Software Officer Wassym Bensaid announced today that the .46 OTA update will introduce Digital Key support for the second-generation R1S and R1T. Here’s what this entails.

## Unlock using the iPhone and Apple Watch, even with a dead battery

With today’s announcement, Bensaid confirmed that later this month, the .46 OTA update will enable iPhone users to save their key for a Gen 2 Rivian in their Apple Wallet, and utilize their iPhone or Apple Watch to lock and unlock their vehicle.

The update will provide full Digital Key support, including UWB capabilities for high precision, and NFC support, which, as he stated, “unlocks (…) even if your phone battery dies” for up to 5 hours using Power Reserve on compatible devices.

Additionally, the update will allow for sending a digital key via text, permitting a friend or contact to approach the vehicle and lock, unlock, or start it.

Furthermore, the update will increase the maximum number of digital keys per vehicle from 4 to 8, “making it simpler than ever to manage access for family and friends,” as per Rivian.

Besides the iPhone and Apple Watch, the .46 update will also extend full Digital Key support to Google and Samsung digital wallets.

## But wasn’t this already available?

Not exactly. Until now, Rivian’s digital key on first-gen R1T and R1S models depended on their app via Bluetooth, instead of a native system-level key.

In simpler terms, there was no integration with Apple Wallet, no support for Google or Samsung Wallet, no UWB for precise proximity, and no method to unlock the vehicle with your phone when the battery was depleted.

With the Gen 2 hardware platform (particularly the new UWB modules), Rivian is transitioning to true OS-level digital keys in the Wallet app, which operate over UWB, can be shared via text, and continue to function even when the iPhone is out of battery.

iPhone 17e Design Enhancements and Intel’s Contribution to Mac Chip Advancement

### Apple Product Speculations: iPhone 17e Design Modifications, Intel’s Involvement in Chip Manufacturing, and ChatGPT’s Incorporation with Apple Health

**Introduction**

In the continuously changing realm of technology, Apple persists in leading the way in innovation. This week, a number of captivating speculations have surfaced regarding forthcoming products and features, such as the awaited iPhone 17e, possible collaboration with Intel for chip manufacturing, and the incorporation of ChatGPT with Apple Health. Here’s a detailed look at these advancements.

#### iPhone 17e’s Two Design Modifications

Recent insights indicate that the iPhone 17e will incorporate two major design modifications. Initially set to replace the conventional notch with a Dynamic Island, the upcoming model will also showcase thinner bezels in comparison to its predecessor. This design evolution implies that the front of the iPhone 17e will closely mirror that of the base iPhone 17, appealing to cost-conscious consumers desiring modern aesthetics without the higher price point.

The design approach of the iPhone 17e demonstrates Apple’s continuous endeavor to diversify its product range while sustaining a balance of features across various models. With the base iPhone 17 reportedly performing well in sales, the launch of the iPhone 17e is unlikely to disrupt its market but may attract a new demographic of buyers searching for a more economical choice with appealing design aspects.

#### Intel May Begin Producing Apple’s M-Class Chips

In an unexpected twist, Apple might re-establish a partnership with Intel as a production associate for its M-class chips, specifically focusing on lower-end models such as the M7. This potential collaboration signifies a considerable change from Apple’s earlier dependency on Intel for chip manufacturing prior to the unveiling of its own silicon in 2020.

Teaming up with Intel could provide Apple with enhanced flexibility and diminish its reliance on TSMC, its current chip producer. By broadening its production options, Apple seeks to strengthen its negotiating leverage and guarantee a more reliable supply chain for its chip manufacturing requirements.

#### ChatGPT App Receiving Apple Health Integration

In a thrilling advancement for health and fitness aficionados, OpenAI is reportedly developing an integration of Apple Health with its ChatGPT app. A recent code leak unveiled intentions for this feature, which is anticipated to debut early next year. This integration will enable users to utilize ChatGPT for personalized health guidance based on their Apple Health data.

Though some users might have privacy and data security concerns, the integration will likely be voluntary, permitting individuals to decide whether to share their health details. This initiative resonates with Apple’s broader strategy to elevate user experience through AI-enhanced services, particularly as rivals venture into similar integrations.

**Conclusion**

As Apple continues to innovate and broaden its product capabilities, these speculations underscore the company’s strategic choices in design, manufacturing, and user integration. The expected iPhone 17e, possible partnership with Intel, and ChatGPT’s incorporation with Apple Health all indicate a future where Apple remains a pivotal force in the technology sphere. As these developments progress, both consumers and industry observers will be eager to see how they influence the market and user experience.

A Revamp in Design May Prove Advantageous for Apple

# The Future of Apple’s Design Division: A New Era Under Stephen Lemay

With Alan Dye’s exit to join Meta, Apple finds itself at a crucial juncture in its design legacy. His successor, Stephen Lemay, is entering a role that not only demands the preservation of Apple’s design legacy but also the reconstruction of a culture that has experienced considerable upheaval in recent times.

## A Bit of Context

Jony Ive’s era at Apple is frequently lauded for its legendary designs, but his influence goes beyond mere product visuals. He nurtured a close-knit design team and a robust culture that flourished under his stewardship. Following his takeover of human interface duties from Scott Forstall, Ive’s team maintained stability, with little turnover, promoting a creative and innovative atmosphere.

However, Ive’s departure in 2019 signaled the onset of a chaotic chapter for Apple’s design division. At first, the transition appeared seamless, with Dye and Evans Hankey leading the charge. Yet, as time passed, the stability began to deteriorate, beginning with Hankey’s exit in 2022. This triggered a major restructure, with design responsibilities being placed directly under the Chief Operating Officer, a shift that many perceived as a weakening of the design team’s power.

The departure of key talents persisted, as designers ventured to rival firms, including OpenAI, indicative of a troubling trend within Apple’s design environment. The once unified team started to splinter, igniting concerns about the future trajectory of Apple’s design philosophy.

## The State of Software Design

While hardware design has encountered significant departures, software design under Dye has largely remained stable, though not without its own hurdles. The absence of prominent designers in recent years has fostered a sense of stagnation in Apple’s software interface design. Critics have highlighted issues such as the debated System Settings overhaul and discrepancies across platforms as indicators of a decline in design quality.

Dye’s tenure has been characterized by a rising sense of dissatisfaction among users, many of whom believe the user interface has regressed compared to earlier benchmarks. The recent modifications have not been well-received by the Apple community, sparking a broader dialogue about the company’s design philosophy.

## The Arrival of Stephen Lemay

Stephen Lemay’s designation as the new head of design at Apple signifies a notable transition. Having been part of the company since 1999, Lemay is acquainted with Apple’s design tenets but is faced with the formidable challenge of revitalizing a division that has lost its direction. Anticipations for swift, decisive changes may be overly optimistic, considering the present state of design culture at Apple.

Lemay’s task will be to connect the gap between hardware and software design, encouraging collaboration and innovation within the team. The necessity for a reset is apparent, as Apple wrestles with upholding its reputation for design excellence in a progressively competitive environment.

## Conclusion

As Apple enters this new phase under Stephen Lemay, the emphasis will be on reconstructing a design culture that has become fragmented in recent years. While it may require time to witness substantial changes, Lemay’s guidance could signal a revival of the fundamental values that once characterized Apple’s design philosophy. The industry will be closely observing how this transition unfolds and whether Apple can reclaim its position as a pioneer in design innovation.

Current Offers: $90 Discount on AirPods 4 with AppleCare+, 49% Discount on Apple iPhone 17 Cases, Discover My SmartLock, Black Alpine Loop, and More

**Apple Accessory Offers: AirPods 4, iPhone 17 Cases, and More**

In the most recent issue of 9to5Toys Lunch Break, numerous noteworthy accessory offers have surfaced, featuring substantial markdowns on Apple products. The ongoing sale for AirPods 4, currently marked down to a record low of 45% off, stands out prominently. Furthermore, consumers can now acquire AirPods 4 together with a 2-year AppleCare+ plan at a reduced price.

### Apple’s ANC AirPods 4 with 2 Years of AppleCare+ for $118

At this moment, Amazon is providing Apple’s AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for merely $99, an impressive 45% reduction. For those in need of additional coverage, a package that includes the AirPods 4 and a 2-year AppleCare+ plan is available for $118, down from a standard price of $208. This offer results in a savings of $90 compared to buying the items individually. AppleCare+ covers accidental damage, hardware, and battery concerns, alongside 24/7 tech assistance.

### iPhone 17 Silicone MagSafe Case for $25

Alongside the AirPods deal, all color options of Apple’s official iPhone 17 Silicone MagSafe cases are now selling at $25, which reflects a 49% discount from the regular $49 price. This deal is perfect for anyone aiming to safeguard their new iPhone 17, making it a fantastic stocking stuffer for the holiday season.

### Black Alpine Loop for Apple Watch Ultra 2/3

For Apple Watch aficionados, Amazon has slashed the price of the black Alpine Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and 3 to $81.18, reduced from the regular $99 price. This chic accessory is tailored specifically for the Natural titanium finish and serves as an excellent enhancement for those looking to elevate their Apple Watch experience.

### Discounts on Apple Watch Series 11

The Apple Watch Series 11 is also experiencing considerable discounts, with prices commencing at $329. Following the Cyber Monday promotions, multiple configurations remain available at these reduced prices, but they are predicted to increase soon, so prompt action is advisable for interested buyers.

### Overview of Accessory Offers

– **AirPods 4 with AppleCare+**: $118 (Reg. $208)
– **iPhone 17 Silicone Case**: $25 (Reg. $49)
– **Black Alpine Loop for Apple Watch**: $81.18 (Reg. $99)
– **Apple Watch Series 11**: Starting from $329

These offers provide an exceptional chance for Apple fans to save on sought-after accessories and gadgets, particularly as the holiday season draws near.

Departures of Apple Executives, Advancements in the App Store, and Perspectives on Apple Music Replay 2025

**Apple’s Executive Departures and Industry Developments: A Week in Review**

This week has brought notable shifts at Apple with the announcement of the departure of two vital executives: John Giannandrea, Senior Vice President of AI, and Alan Dye, Vice President of Design. Giannandrea’s retirement follows a distinguished career where he was integral in developing Apple’s artificial intelligence strategy. His exit raises uncertainties about the future of AI projects at Apple, especially as competition within the tech sector escalates.

Alan Dye, recognized for his impact on Apple’s design ethos, is moving on to pursue a new role at Meta. His departure signals a transformation in Apple’s design governance, which has been key in shaping the user experience across Apple’s array of products. The departure of both Giannandrea and Dye may affect Apple’s innovation strategies looking ahead.

In other developments, Apple has come to a consensus with Tencent regarding commissions for mini apps within WeChat. This agreement is noteworthy as it emphasizes Apple’s continual attempts to maneuver through the complexities of the Chinese market, where WeChat reigns supreme. The deal might facilitate greater collaboration between Apple and Tencent, potentially benefiting developers and consumers alike.

Moreover, India is making news with its plan to pre-install a state security app on iPhones. This strategy raises worries regarding privacy and user independence as it mirrors broader governmental attempts to supervise digital communications. The consequences of such a policy could impact Apple’s operations in India, a crucial market for the company.

On a more upbeat note, Apple Music has introduced its new Replay feature, enabling users to revisit their preferred songs and playlists from the preceding year. This enhancement is anticipated to boost user engagement and offer a customized listening experience.

In sports, an analytics report indicates that baseball games are attracting more subscribers to Apple TV than the platform’s original programming. This finding highlights the increasing significance of live sports content in drawing and retaining subscribers in a fiercely competitive streaming environment.

For those looking for more in-depth discussions and insights, the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus presents ad-free episodes, bonus content, and exclusive dialogues. Subscriptions are offered at $5 per month or $50 per year.

As usual, feedback and inquiries are welcomed through various channels, including Twitter and email. The tech community is closely observing as Apple navigates these transformations and industry dynamics.

Apple Podcasts Chooses ‘The Rest Is History’ as Show of the Year

Apple Podcasts has revealed its 2025 Show of the Year, the UK-originated podcast *The Rest Is History*. This accolade is awarded to a show that embodies excellence and cultural relevance within the podcasting realm.

Presented by historians Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, *The Rest Is History* has attained significant acclaim by vividly recounting historical narratives, ranging from the ascent and decline of the Roman Empire to the sinking of the Titanic. The hosts merge their knowledge with captivating storytelling and wit, rendering intricate historical subjects approachable for a wide audience.

Co-host Sandbrook credits their achievement to a non-critical perspective on history, highlighting enjoyment and passion for the topic. Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of Podcasts, commended the show for its educational merits, humor, and community engagement, underscoring its outstanding contribution to the podcasting field.

Audiences can find *The Rest Is History* on Apple Podcasts or through several podcast services. Furthermore, Apple has assembled collections of books and music associated with the show, accessible on Apple Books and Apple Music Classical.

Severance Season 3 Release Schedule Update Revealed

**Severance Season 3: Production Update and Anticipated Premiere**

The celebrated series *Severance* has recently attracted substantial attention, making it onto various ‘Best TV of 2025’ rankings. As excitement mounts for its third season, Apple has issued an important update concerning its production schedule.

### Production Schedule

*Severance* Season 3 is scheduled to begin filming from **April 2026 through December 2026**. This detail comes from the latest edition of Production Weekly, confirming the production timeline that enthusiasts have been eagerly looking forward to. Previously, there were hints from star Patricia Arquette regarding a possible spring 2026 filming start, but the official timeline has now been formally set.

### Expected Premiere Date

Considering the post-production durations noted in previous seasons, *Severance* is anticipated to make its return around **mid-2027**. The standard post-production phase for the series is estimated to take between 6 to 9 months. This implies that the premiere might happen as early as **June 2027**, although it is also likely that the show might launch in September, a month when Apple typically debuts its major series.

### Comparison to Previous Seasons

This timeline indicates that *Severance* will be back sooner than for its second season, which premiered three years after the first. Nevertheless, it still does not meet the expectations many fans had for a faster comeback.

### Streaming Availability

For those wishing to catch up on *Severance* or discover other content, Apple TV+ is offered for **$12.99 per month**. The platform includes a range of popular series and films, such as *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, and *Pluribus*. Furthermore, it is accessible through the Apple One bundle.

As production progresses, fans of *Severance* can anticipate more updates and the eventual return of the series in 2027.

Russia Limits FaceTime Access, Claiming Its Involvement in Terrorism

**FaceTime Prohibited in Russia Amidst Growing Communication Censorship**

A new article from *Reuters* reveals that Russia has officially barred access to Apple’s FaceTime, rendering users unable to connect through the platform starting today. This move is part of a larger pattern of heightened limitations on foreign tech services in the nation.

As reported by the state communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, the restriction on FaceTime is defended by assertions from law enforcement agencies claiming the app is being used for coordinating and carrying out terrorist operations, recruiting individuals for such endeavors, and perpetrating fraud against Russian citizens. Nonetheless, the regulator did not provide any proof to back these claims.

Reports from Moscow show that users trying to access FaceTime are encountering notifications indicating “User unavailable.” In certain cases, users have noted seeing incoming calls on their devices, yet the calls do not connect when answered.

The prohibition of FaceTime is not an isolated case. This action comes in the wake of recent limitations placed on other widely-used communication platforms, such as Google’s YouTube, Meta’s WhatsApp, and the Telegram messaging service. Furthermore, merely a day before the FaceTime prohibition, Russia also limited access to the popular game Roblox, citing its use for disseminating extremist material and “LGBT propaganda.”

As the scenario progresses, further information will be shared regarding the consequences of these communication restrictions in Russia.

AirTag Accessory Extends Battery Duration to More Than 5 Years

### TimeCapsule for AirTag Now Offered in More Compact Size

A standout recent release in the accessory market is Elevation Lab’s TimeCapsule for AirTag, which greatly prolongs the battery life of Apple’s AirTag. Initially, the TimeCapsule boasted an impressive battery duration of 10 years, but the company has recently launched a more compact version that provides 5 years of battery life while offering a smaller profile.

#### The Dilemma of AirTag Battery Duration

While Apple’s AirTag is groundbreaking, it does have a limitation: its battery lifespan. With a typical usage period of around a year, managing several AirTags can turn into a hassle, especially when low battery alerts start accumulating. This concern for users fueled the creation of the TimeCapsule accessory, which received positive feedback for its prolonged battery life.

#### Sleek Design with Prolonged Battery Life

The updated TimeCapsule version tackles the size concern of its predecessor. Although the original TimeCapsule was effective, its size made it less ideal for scenarios where space is restricted. The recently introduced 5-year battery case is crafted to be sleeker, with dimensions of 2.6 inches by 1.6 inches by 0.8 inches, in contrast to the 10-year model’s measurements of 4.45 inches by 1.57 inches by 0.75 inches.

This new accessory functions with two AAA batteries, with Elevation Lab suggesting the use of Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries for the best results. Users just need to insert their AirTag into the case, add the batteries, and experience extended battery life without frequent changes.

#### Extra Features

The small TimeCapsule case is not only functional but also comes with a waterproof design, ensuring it can endure various environmental conditions. Notably, the case does not reveal that it contains an AirTag, offering a discreet option for tracking belongings.

#### Availability

The new TimeCapsule AirTag 5-year battery case can be purchased in both single and multipack selections, catering to diverse user preferences.

#### Conclusion

The launch of the compact TimeCapsule for AirTag marks a significant improvement in accessory design for Apple’s tracking device. By addressing concerns related to battery life and size, Elevation Lab has offered users a practical solution that boosts the capability of AirTags. Whether a seasoned user of the TimeCapsule or exploring it for the first time, this new model provides an attractive choice for anyone aiming to streamline their tracking experience.