Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Ongoing Promotions: Save as much as $357 on M4 iPad Pro, $350 on M2 iPad Air, along with discounts on AirPods Pro 2, Apple Watch, Magic Keyboards, and additional items

**Father’s Day Savings on Apple Products: What to Consider**

As Father’s Day nears, many seek the ideal present for their dads. This year, tech lovers can seize remarkable savings on a variety of Apple products. Here’s a summary of the top offers available, ensuring you can present dad with something special without overspending.

### 1. M4 iPad Pro Offers

A highlight this season is the **M4 iPad Pro**. The 256GB variant, usually listed at $1,299, is presently available for **$1,099** on Amazon, providing a discount of **$200**. For those open to exploring open-box choices, Best Buy has the same model priced at **$941.99**, which is an impressive **$357 off** the standard price. These open-box products are certified by Geek Squad, guaranteeing they function like new and come with a complete Apple warranty.

### 2. M2 iPad Air Price Reduction

Another significant bargain is on the **512GB 11-inch M2 iPad Air**, now retailing for **$699**, which is **$350 less** than its initial cost. This model includes cellular capabilities and serves as an exceptional option for those seeking a robust tablet at a more accessible price than the newer M3 versions.

### 3. AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 Offers

Music lovers can also discover fantastic savings on **AirPods**. The **AirPods Pro 2** are currently priced at **$169**, down from $249, while the **AirPods 4** begin at **$99.99**. These prices represent some of the top deals observed this year, making it an ideal time to enhance dad’s audio experience.

### 4. Apple Watch Series 10 Offers

For anyone contemplating a smartwatch, the **Apple Watch Series 10** is on sale with a **$100 reduction**, starting at **$299**. This smartwatch not only assists in tracking fitness but also keeps dad connected, rendering it a sensible gift.

### 5. Sony XM6 Headphones Special

In addition to Apple devices, there’s a special offer on the **Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise Canceling Headphones**. Priced at **$448**, this promotion includes a **FREE $30 Amazon gift card**, making it an attractive deal for anyone aiming to enhance their audio experience.

### 6. MacBook Air Savings

Finally, the **15-inch M4 MacBook Air** with 24GB of RAM is up for grabs at **$1,419**, which is **$180 off** its usual price. This model is perfect for those requiring a powerful laptop for both work and leisure.

### Conclusion

With these remarkable reductions on Apple products, locating the perfect Father’s Day present has never been simpler. Whether it’s a new iPad, AirPods, or an Apple Watch, there’s something for every dad this season. Be sure to act swiftly, as these offers may change as Father’s Day draws closer.

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Fresh Snooze Choices for iPhone Alarms in iOS 26

### Alarms Can Feature Custom Snooze Durations in iOS 26

Every day, millions awaken to their iPhone’s alarm, depending on the standard 9-minute snooze duration. However, with the forthcoming iOS 26, Apple is rolling out a long-anticipated feature: the option to establish custom snooze durations for alarms.

For the majority of iPhone users, Apple’s built-in Clock app is the primary choice for setting daily alarms. Even though it’s widely used, it has been unable to provide the flexibility of custom snooze durations for years, confining users to snoozing alarms in 9-minute blocks. Many have adjusted to this constraint, frequently setting several alarms to fit their snooze preferences.

In iOS 26, users will at last have control over snooze durations. Each alarm can now feature its own custom snooze interval, varying from 1 minute to 15 minutes. While the default remains at 9 minutes, modifying it is simple. Users can customize the snooze duration according to the significance of the alarm, permitting shorter or longer snooze periods as desired.

Although this update may appear small, it could greatly improve the user experience for those who have long sought greater flexibility in their morning routines. iOS 26 is currently in a developer beta phase and is expected to launch for all users this autumn.

As users gear up for this update, many may ponder how they will apply the new snooze duration features. Will you make use of this capability in iOS 26?

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tvOS 26 Indicates Major Hardware Enhancements for Future Apple TV 4K

**New Apple TV 4K Hardware Anticipated This Autumn**

Excitement is mounting for the upcoming generation of Apple TV 4K, as Apple is said to be preparing to unveil a new model this autumn. The previous update to the Apple TV 4K occurred in 2022, heightening anticipation for this imminent release among tech aficionados and Apple supporters alike.

**Speculated Features of the New Apple TV 4K**

The forthcoming Apple TV 4K is anticipated to feature a variety of thrilling capabilities, such as:

– A more robust A18 or A17 Pro chip
– Integration with Apple Intelligence
– Apple’s inaugural in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modem
– An optional built-in camera

The prospect of a built-in camera is particularly captivating, as it may facilitate new functionalities like FaceTime videoconferencing and gesture-based navigation. This feature would work harmoniously with other Apple gadgets, including the iPhone and Vision Pro.

**tvOS 26 Suggests New Hardware Features**

In tandem with the much-awaited hardware upgrade, Apple has introduced tvOS 26, which presents an array of new features indicating that the new Apple TV 4K may indeed include a built-in camera. The update delivers a fresh design with Liquid Glass, an overhauled TV app, and improvements to FaceTime.

Significantly, tvOS 26 will refine the FaceTime experience on Apple TV, rendering it more tailored and in sync with iOS. Highlights include:

– Contact Posters displaying a contact’s image and name during FaceTime calls
– Broadened Live Captions in various languages
– On-screen alerts for FaceTime audio and phone calls

These enhancements suggest that Apple is gearing up for a more cohesive FaceTime experience on Apple TV, which would be greatly augmented by a built-in camera.

**Conclusion**

The forthcoming Apple TV 4K is poised to be a notable enhancement, particularly with the possible incorporation of a built-in camera. As Apple steadily enhances its software and hardware capabilities, the integration of FaceTime directly into the Apple TV experience could transform it into a more widely adopted feature. With the launch anticipated this autumn, consumers are keen to discover how these innovations will enrich their home entertainment experience.

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Apple Unveils Fresh Spam Features in iOS 26 to Tackle Scammers

### New Spam Protection Tools in iOS 26: A Transformative Development for Users

Earlier this week, at its annual WWDC keynote, Apple revealed a variety of new features for iOS 26, showcasing notable improvements in spam protection tools. Although the announcement did not feature new security or privacy functionalities, the advancements designed to tackle spam calls and messages are set to enhance the user experience for those dealing with unsolicited communications.

#### Call Screening: An Innovative Method for Unknown Calls

One of the prominent features launched in iOS 26 is Call Screening, which boosts the capabilities of the Phone app. When users receive a call from an unfamiliar number, the iPhone will answer it silently in the background. The caller is then prompted by an automated voice to provide their name and the reason behind their call. This information is transcribed in real-time and shown on the Lock Screen, enabling users to choose whether to ignore the call, pick it up, or send a typed reply that is conveyed aloud to the caller.

Moreover, iOS 26 brings the capability to report voicemails as spam, a feature that was missing before. Users can now flag unwanted voicemails, which Apple may utilize to enhance its spam detection algorithms, akin to the “Report Junk” function in Messages.

While the current Call Screening feature demands user action to verify the authenticity of a call, forthcoming updates may integrate AI to automate this task, making it even more proficient in filtering out spam.

#### Improved Messaging Experience

Apple has also redesigned the Messages app in iOS 26, implementing a categorization system that sorts incoming text messages into separate folders: Messages, Unknown Senders, Spam, and Recently Deleted. This new format resembles an email inbox, promoting more efficient message filtering.

Texts from recognized contacts will appear on the main Messages page, while communications from unknown senders will be moved to a distinct folder. This adjustment is particularly advantageous for users who frequently receive scam texts, as it helps maintain their primary messaging interface uncluttered.

The addition of the Spam folder intends to further address unwelcome messages. Although the spam detection algorithms might still need improvement, the potential of this feature to shield users from scams is considerable. In 2024, U.S. consumers reportedly lost $470 million to scams initiated through text messages, underlining the pressing need for effective spam protection.

#### Conclusion

The new spam protection tools in iOS 26, such as Call Screening and the revamped Messages app, signify a proactive effort by Apple to tackle the escalating problem of unwanted communications. While these features may not equate to a major revamp of security and privacy protocols, they are a much-appreciated enhancement for users aiming to reduce distractions and safeguard themselves from scams. As Apple continues to improve these tools, the prospect for enhanced spam detection and user experience looks promising.

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WWDC25 Wraps Up Today: Did It Meet Anticipations?

**WWDC25: A Summary of Apple’s Recent Innovations**

Today signifies the end of WWDC25, Apple’s yearly Worldwide Developers Conference, where the technology leader revealed a range of updates and new functionalities. As the keynote speeches and sessions conclude, the community is left to contemplate the announcements and their significance for the future of Apple products and services.

### The Most Challenging WWDC in Recent History

This year’s WWDC received a blend of excitement and doubt. Many participants and viewers approached the conference with worries arising from Apple’s recent difficulties, particularly related to its AI efforts and the ongoing strains with the developer community. The possibility of a major cross-platform UI overhaul and a brand name update contributed to the enthusiasm, but the real question was whether Apple would confront its recent errors and the increasing dissatisfaction among developers.

Some analysts feared that Apple might keep its typical quietness on controversial topics, while others aspired to a more reconciliatory stance, including possible adjustments to App Store regulations or recognition of developer grievances.

### Advantages and Disadvantages

Ultimately, Apple provided only a brief acknowledgment of its issues with Siri, yet it lacked a thorough response to the wider challenges at play. The familiar storyline of Apple’s affection for developers was noticeably missing, with many feeling it was supplanted by a more defensive narrative regarding its contributions to the developer ecosystem.

Regardless of these inadequacies, WWDC25 presented some encouraging developments. The debut of Liquid Glass technology holds potential for future uses, and the iPad finally addressed several long-awaited user demands, representing a major advance in its progression. Moreover, the revelation of the Foundation Models framework could become a crucial element in Apple’s strategy going forward.

The overall atmosphere of the conference remained positive, marked by Apple’s signature humor and a strong emphasis on its technical plans, leaving many to consider the ramifications of these announcements.

As the aftermath of WWDC25 settles, the community is keen to express their opinions. Were the new features and updates sufficient to thrill users, or did the conference’s tone leave something wanting? The dialogue continues as Apple fans and developers alike reflect on what this year’s conference signifies for the future of the Apple ecosystem.

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Steam Introduces Native Compatibility for Apple Silicon: An Introductory Guide to Begin

### Steam for Mac: A Genuine Apple Silicon Experience

After a long-awaited duration, Steam for Mac is finally evolving into a genuine Apple Silicon application. Valve has launched this updated version as part of a beta release, permitting users to experience the new enhancements right away.

#### Shift from Rosetta 2

In the past, Steam depended on Rosetta 2 for operation on Apple Silicon Macs. This reliance frequently led to decreased performance and a subpar user experience, especially within the Chromium-based interface that drives much of the Steam client. With Rosetta 2’s end on the horizon, the transition to a native application is well-timed.

### Speedier, Smoother, and Truly Native

The newly released beta version of Steam is now a completely optimized Universal app. Users can anticipate markedly quicker launch times, enhanced responsiveness in scrolling and navigation, and more fluid access to Store and Community sections.

The main enhancement stems from shifting the Chromium Embedded Framework from Intel-only to Apple Silicon, removing one of the significant performance hindrances in the app. Users are likely to perceive a noticeable improvement in fluidity when executing basic tasks, such as accessing their Library or switching between tabs.

### Steps to Activate the Beta

To experience the native version of Steam, follow these instructions:

1. Launch the Steam app on your Mac.
2. In the menu bar, navigate to Steam > Settings > Interface.
3. Locate the Beta Participation section and choose Steam Beta Update from the dropdown menu.
4. Restart Steam to download the updated version (around 230MB).
5. Verify that you are utilizing the native version by checking Activity Monitor—Steam should appear as “Kind: Apple”.

### Perfect Timing

This update comes at a pivotal juncture, as Apple has recently announced that Rosetta 2 will be phased out in a forthcoming macOS release. Without updates, Intel-only applications like Steam would ultimately stop functioning. While Apple has indicated that Rosetta 2 will remain accessible to support older or unsupported games, the outlook for app launchers like Steam appears uncertain, especially with Apple’s emphasis on its Game Porting Toolkit 2.

Apple’s official announcement emphasizes the transition:

> “macOS Tahoe will be the final release for Intel-based Mac computers. Those devices will continue to receive security updates for three years. Rosetta was created to facilitate the transition to Apple silicon, and we plan to make it available for the next two major macOS releases – through macOS 27 – as a general-purpose utility for Intel apps to assist developers in completing their app migration. Beyond this period, we will maintain a portion of Rosetta functionality aimed at supporting older unmaintained gaming titles that rely on Intel-based frameworks.”

### Final Thoughts

The transition of Steam to a native Apple Silicon application signifies a considerable enhancement for Mac users, improving both performance and user experience. As the beta becomes accessible, users are invited to explore the new features and share feedback regarding their experiences.

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Official Statement on iOS 26, Liquid Glass Redesign Attributes, and In-Depth Responses to WWDC 2025

### WWDC 2025 Keynote Highlights: iOS 26 and Liquid Glass Redesign

Benjamin and Chance are back with a thorough recap of the 2025 WWDC keynote, exploring the newest announcements from Apple. This year’s event highlighted substantial updates, especially in iOS 26 and a comprehensive redesign of Liquid Glass, signaling a crucial moment for Apple fans and developers alike.

#### Key Features of iOS 26

The latest iOS 26 introduces a range of features designed to enhance the user experience and functionality. Prominent features include:

– **Enhanced Privacy Controls**: iOS 26 strongly prioritizes user privacy, providing more detailed controls over app permissions and data sharing.
– **Revamped User Interface**: The interface has been refreshed, rendering navigation more intuitive and aesthetically pleasing.
– **Improved Multitasking Capabilities**: Users can now effortlessly switch between apps and handle multiple tasks more effectively.
– **New Widgets and Customization Options**: The update includes a variety of new widgets that can be customized to meet users’ preferences and requirements.

#### Liquid Glass Redesign

Alongside iOS 26, Apple revealed a thorough redesign of Liquid Glass, its cutting-edge material incorporated in various products. The redesign aims to enhance durability while preserving the sleek appearance that users adore. Key features of the redesign consist of:

– **Increased Scratch Resistance**: The new formulation boosts the material’s resistance to scratches and everyday wear.
– **Sustainable Production Methods**: Apple is dedicated to sustainability, and the new Liquid Glass is produced with eco-friendly techniques.
– **Enhanced Transparency and Clarity**: The redesign also emphasizes improving the material’s clarity, ensuring devices look stunning while offering solid protection.

#### On-the-Ground Insights

Chance shares his direct experiences from Apple Park, giving listeners a distinctive viewpoint on the event. His insights enhance the understanding of the atmosphere and enthusiasm surrounding the announcements.

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iOS 26 Incorporates Apple Music Replay Directly Into the App

### Apple Music Replay Transitions to a Native Experience in iOS 26

Apple Music has recently seen substantial updates with the launch of iOS 26, improving its features and overall user experience. One of the most prominent changes is the shift of Apple Music Replay from a web-based interface to a completely native in-app experience.

#### What is Apple Music Replay?

Apple Music Replay acts as the platform’s equivalent to Spotify’s well-known Wrapped feature, enabling users to look back at their most-listened-to songs and albums from the previous year. Unlike Spotify Wrapped, which is only accessible at the year’s end, Apple Music Replay provides users with their listening statistics all year round.

#### The Evolution of Apple Music Replay

In the past, Apple Music Replay was constrained by its web-only access, necessitating users to exit the Music app to check their listening data. Although progress was made last year by incorporating Replay into the Music app, it still operated as a web view within the app, diminishing the user experience overall.

With the rollout of iOS 26, Apple Music Replay has transformed into a fully native feature. This indicates that users can obtain their Replay data directly within the Music app without any interruptions from web views. The updated interface offers a seamless experience, allowing users to easily check their monthly listening statistics and, at year-end, their comprehensive Replay data.

#### Benefits of the Native Experience

The shift to a native experience provides various benefits:

1. **Enhanced User Experience**: Users can explore their Replay data without the interruptions of a web view, resulting in a more integrated experience within the app.

2. **Boosted Performance**: A native interface generally leads to quicker loading times and smoother interactions, facilitating easier engagement with their music data.

3. **Competitive Advantage**: By upgrading the Replay feature, Apple Music bolsters its standing in the competitive streaming sector, especially against Spotify, which has been recognized for its captivating end-of-year recap features.

#### Conclusion

The transition to a fully native Apple Music Replay in iOS 26 signifies a marked improvement in how users engage with their music data. While some users may not perceive the difference, for many, this upgrade enriches the overall experience of utilizing Apple Music. As the platform continues to grow, features like Replay will be vital in attracting and retaining subscribers in the fiercely competitive music streaming arena.

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Google Reintroduces Snapseed for iPhone with Major 3.0 Enhancement

**Snapseed 3.0: A Significant Upgrade for Photo Editing on iOS**

Google has just introduced a substantial update to its well-liked photo editing application, Snapseed, with the launch of version 3.0. This update signifies the first major redesign of the app in a number of years, rejuvenating its interface and capabilities for iPhone and iPad users.

### A Much-Needed Refresh

For many users, the absence of significant updates in recent years had led to worries that Google might be discontinuing Snapseed. The last major update for iOS occurred in 2021, followed by minor adjustments in 2023 and 2024. However, the launch of version 3.0 indicates a renewed dedication to the app, which functions entirely offline, without any server-side dependencies.

### Updated Interface and Features

The most striking alteration in Snapseed 3.0 is its fully redesigned interface. The app now presents edited images in a grid layout, facilitating easier navigation for users through their edits. To start editing, users can tap the new circular ‘plus’ floating action button (FAB) positioned at the bottom of the screen.

The editor is now structured into three primary tabs:

1. **Looks**: A selection of preset filters.
2. **Faves**: A new addition that enables users to bookmark their favorite tools for swift access.
3. **Tools**: Includes all editing instruments available in the app.

The export feature has been moved to the top-right corner for improved accessibility.

### Improved Editing Tools

Snapseed 3.0 provides a diverse range of editing tools, organized as follows:

– **Adjust & Correct**: Comprises tools like Adjust, Details, Tonality, Curves, White Balance, Lens Blur, and Vignette.
– **Retouch & Transform**: Includes Selective, Brush, Healing, Portrait, Crop, Perspective, Expand, and Head Pose.
– **Style**: Brings new styles such as Film, alongside existing options like Glow, Retrolux, Vintage, Black & White, HDR Scape, Drama, Noir, and Grunge.
– **Creative**: Enables Double Exposure, Frames, and Text.

Users can continue to swipe left and right to modify values, and an arc-based controller at the bottom offers a more intuitive method for adjustments. Moreover, swiping up and down within certain tools provides access to additional options.

### Upcoming Updates

Google has hinted that there is “more to come,” sparking curiosity among users about possible future improvements. Currently, it is uncertain whether this significant update will also apply to the Android version of Snapseed.

### Conclusion

With the introduction of Snapseed 3.0, Google has revitalized this cherished photo editing application, providing users with a new interface and a comprehensive suite of tools to elevate their photography endeavors. Whether you’re a casual user or a photography aficionado, the fresh features and streamlined design make Snapseed an attractive option for photo editing on iOS devices.

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iPadOS 26 Refined for Future Bigger iPad Version

# iPadOS 26: A Revolutionary Update for iPad Owners

iPadOS 26 represents a major overhaul for iPad owners, unveiling the most significant enhancements to productivity ever observed on the platform. The updated window management system aims to improve multitasking functions, simplifying the process for users to operate several applications at once. This update not only aids existing iPads but also paves the way for a new, bigger iPad model that Apple is speculated to be working on.

## The Expected ‘iPad Fold’ Featuring an 18.8-Inch Display

Since the debut of the original iPad Pro in 2015, boasting a 12.9-inch screen, users have expressed the desire for a more expansive iPad. Although the Mac range incorporates laptops and desktops with displays reaching 16 inches and more, the largest iPad has remained restricted to 13 inches. With the new features of iPadOS 26, the demand for a larger iPad has surged.

Speculation indicates that Apple is developing a foldable iPad model with a spectacular 18.8-inch screen. Analysts anticipate that this device could hit the market as soon as 2026, aligning with the expected release of Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone, although some predictions push the timeline to 2028.

## Boosting Productivity with a More Spacious Display

The rollout of iPadOS 26 empowers users to resize apps freely, akin to macOS, enriching the multitasking capabilities. Yet, within the confines of current iPad display dimensions, users frequently encounter restrictions due to limited screen area, hampering the effective use of multiple applications without interference.

An 18.8-inch foldable iPad would offer generous display space, enabling users to engage with various applications at once without compromising visibility. This feature holds particular appeal for professionals who depend on multitasking to enhance their productivity.

## Conclusion

As iPadOS 26 becomes available, excitement for a more extensive iPad model escalates. The new window management system aligns perfectly with a foldable iPad, presenting an exhilarating opportunity for users aiming for improved efficiency. With the upcoming potential of the ‘iPad Fold’ on the horizon, many are curious to see how these innovations will reshape their iPad experience.

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