Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Three Creative Approaches to Customize Your macOS Tahoe 26

**macOS Tahoe 26: An In-Depth Guide to Personalization Features**

macOS Tahoe 26 presents a major overhaul for Mac users, showcasing the cutting-edge Liquid Glass design language. This upgrade not only boosts the visual attractiveness of the operating system but also presents users with an array of new personalization choices to enhance their experience. Below, we delve into the primary features of macOS Tahoe 26 that facilitate increased customization.

### Icon Tinting

A highlight of macOS Tahoe 26 is the launch of icon tinting, originally introduced in iOS 18. Users can now alter the coloration of their app icons, adding a personal flair to their desktop setting.

**How to Alter Icon Colors:**
1. Access **System Settings**.
2. Select **Appearance** from the sidebar.
3. Find the **Icon & widget style** segment.

In this area, users can select from standard, dark, and clear tinting choices, or pick a custom hue for their icons. Furthermore, users can opt for light or dark icon styles to refine their interface even more.

### Menu Bar Customization

The menu bar has been transformed with a completely transparent design. However, in response to mixed reactions, Apple has integrated a toggle feature enabling users to choose their preferred style for the menu bar.

**How to Modify Menu Bar Settings:**
1. Access **System Settings**.
2. Select **Menu Bar** from the sidebar.
3. Toggle the setting for **Show menu bar background** on or off.

This feature grants flexibility, allowing users to choose either a transparent menu bar or one with a defined background, accommodating personal preferences.

### Folder Customization

macOS Tahoe 26 has revamped folder customization, allowing users to incorporate emojis or symbols and modify the default color of their folders effortlessly.

**Steps to Personalize Folders:**
1. Launch **Finder**.
2. Go to the folder you wish to customize.
3. Right-click on the folder icon and choose **Customize**.

Users can personalize their folders with any symbol, emoji, or color of their choice and can also adjust the system-wide folder color through the **Appearance** menu within System Settings.

### Additional Customization Options

In addition to icon and folder customization, macOS Tahoe 26 presents numerous other features that elevate user experience:

– **Pinning Collections in Photos**: Users can pin their favorite collections for easy access.
– **Pinning in Music**: A similar feature allows for albums, artists, songs, and playlists in the Music app.
– **Customizable Control Center**: The Control Center layout is now entirely customizable.
– **Spotlight Enhancements**: New viewing options and layout customization for application results in Spotlight.
– **Terminal Themes**: Users can select from new themes to personalize the Terminal interface.
– **Messages Custom Backgrounds**: The capability to set custom backgrounds for chats in the Messages app.

### Conclusion

macOS Tahoe 26 introduces a plethora of customization opportunities that enable users to shape their Mac experience to their preferences. From icon tinting to folder customization and beyond, these features enhance both functionality and visual appeal. Whether you favor a minimalist design or a vivid, personalized interface, macOS Tahoe 26 equips you with the tools to forge a workspace that mirrors your style. What features do you enjoy most in macOS Tahoe? Share your opinions in the comments!

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Effect of Apple’s F1 Movie on Revenue Increase for Formula One Group

The F1 film is not only a success for Apple. The Formula One Group attributes part of its recent revenue increase to Apple.

The Hollywood Reporter has the details:

The entity, owned by Liberty Media, experienced a one-time revenue boost from the film’s release in late June, which played a role in the group’s 40 percent revenue increase year-over-year, reaching $1 billion. Executives estimated the film’s effect on revenue to be “a mid-teens number for the quarter,” while other contributors included ongoing growth in F1 TV subscriptions, as well as a calendar variation that resulted in a higher percentage of season-based revenue recognized in the second quarter.

After generating more than $500 million globally so far, Apple’s F1 movie was highlighted in Liberty Media’s latest earnings call.

“I would suggest that the impact of the film is not solely about the financial contribution, but the sport will have a tremendous opportunity to enhance its visibility and create a circular economy around it,” Domenicali remarked.

He mentioned that he anticipates that interest and future revenue prospects will persist as the film is subsequently available on Apple’s streaming service.

Prior to the release of the F1 movie, Netflix’s Drive to Survive docuseries had similarly heightened interest in the sport.

What could further enhance public enthusiasm for Formula One? Apple is negotiating to obtain U.S. streaming rights for Formula One.

While there’s no confirmed date for the F1 movie’s debut on Apple TV+, the film is being re-released in IMAX theaters, with tickets now available for purchase.

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DaVinci Resolve Unveils New Features for Improved Spatial Video Editing

**Blackmagic Design Reveals Significant Update to DaVinci Resolve Studio for Immersive Video Editing**

Today, Blackmagic Design revealed an important update to its acclaimed video editing software, DaVinci Resolve Studio, improving its functionality for editing spatial videos recorded with the URSA Cine Immersive camera. This update, version 20.1, brings a collection of new features focused on optimizing the editing workflow for immersive content.

**Overview of URSA Cine Immersive Camera**

Last year, Blackmagic Design introduced the URSA Cine Immersive camera, described as “the world’s first commercial camera system intended to capture Apple Immersive Video.” This groundbreaking camera incorporates a dual-lens system that captures stereoscopic 3D videos, offering a distinct perspective for filmmakers and content developers. The launch coincided with an updated version of DaVinci Resolve, which enabled editors to adjust clips for display on standard 2D monitors or the Apple Vision Pro, enhancing the editing process.

**New Features in DaVinci Resolve 20.1**

The newest update broadens the editing capabilities available for immersive video. Notable features include:

– **Enhanced Masking Tools**: Editors can now eliminate unwanted elements from immersive scenes, boosting the overall standard of the final output.
– **Optimized Workflow**: The update eases the task of converting immersive visuals into flat compositions, facilitating smoother patching, painting, and the integration of graphics or text.
– **Export Presets for Apple Immersive Video Utility**: Users can conveniently drag and drop final renders directly into the Vision Pro, streamlining the workflow.
– **ProRes Bundle Feature**: This addition supports workflows using Apple Compressor, improving compatibility and productivity.
– **Native Support for Apple’s Spatial Audio Format (ASAF)**: This enhancement permits immersive sound mixing using Fairlight’s complete 3D panner system, enriching the auditory experience of immersive videos.

**Additional Features**

The update further encompasses:

– Monitoring of immersive video in Apple Vision Pro from the timeline.
– Binaural monitoring of Apple Spatial Audio with head tracking for AirPods.
– Editing features for Blackmagic RAW Immersive video recorded on the URSA Cine Immersive.
– An immersive video viewer for 2D displays that supports image pan, tilt, and roll.
– Automatic detection of Apple Immersive Video for dual-file stereoscopic 3D content.
– An option to skip transitions generally rendered by Apple Vision Pro.
– Native file export for playback on Apple Vision Pro.

**Availability**

DaVinci Resolve 20.1 is available as a complimentary update for current DaVinci Resolve Studio users. Additionally, Blackmagic Design provides sample immersive clips for download on their website, enabling users to experience the new features firsthand.

This update elevates DaVinci Resolve Studio as a premier tool for immersive video editing, addressing the increasing demand for high-quality spatial content within the shifting digital media landscape.

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Lotus Improves CarPlay Connectivity in Newest Vehicle Models

**Lotus Enhances CarPlay Experience with Spatial Audio Update**

The British sports car manufacturer Lotus has revealed a major enhancement to the CarPlay experience for iPhone users, introducing Spatial Audio features via a complimentary software upgrade. This improvement is available for the electric Eletre and Emeya models, signifying a significant leap in in-car audio technology.

The update enables Apple Music users to experience immersive Dolby Atmos sound, made possible by KEF’s high-quality in-car audio systems. This partnership aims to redefine the in-vehicle listening experience, offering drivers and passengers high-fidelity sound that transforms every trip into an auditory journey.

**Immersive Audio Experience**

The Eletre and Emeya models incorporate state-of-the-art audio technology from KEF, a celebrated British audio manufacturer. With as many as 23 speakers strategically positioned throughout the cabin, these vehicles provide an immersive 3D surround sound experience. Spatial Audio in CarPlay enhances the listening experience, allowing music to shift dynamically within the car, resulting in a sensory-rich atmosphere filled with depth, clarity, and detail.

Apple Music’s growing library features a plethora of tracks available in Spatial Audio, showcasing contributions from some of the world’s most acclaimed artists across a multitude of genres. Curated playlists further enrich the experience, ensuring that listeners can savor music in a manner that feels more vivid and engaging than ever before.

**The Evolution of CarPlay and Spatial Audio**

Spatial Audio in CarPlay has been progressively adopted by various automobile brands, including Rivian, Polestar, and Lucid. Importantly, CarPlay is not a requirement for utilizing Spatial Audio; some vehicles employ a built-in Apple Music application to access this feature.

As the demand for premium audio experiences in automobiles continues to rise, Lotus’s incorporation of Spatial Audio represents a crucial advancement in enhancing the overall driving experience. This update not only exemplifies the brand’s dedication to innovation but also emphasizes the significance of high-quality audio in contemporary vehicles.

In summary, Lotus’s most recent software update for the Eletre and Emeya models enhances the in-car audio experience, enabling drivers and passengers to appreciate music in an immersive and dynamic manner. By combining Spatial Audio with KEF’s audio technology, Lotus is establishing a new benchmark for luxury sports cars.

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Dia Browser Launches $20/Month Subscription Option

### Dia Now Introduces a Dia Pro Subscription Plan

The Browser Company has recently unveiled a subscription plan for its innovative AI-driven browser, Dia. This initiative comes after the company’s choice to phase out the Arc browser, which had built a loyal user community thanks to its groundbreaking design and features.

#### Overview of Dia

Debuted a few months ago, Dia is designed to offer a more conventional browsing experience while incorporating sophisticated AI functionalities. The browser includes a sidebar featuring an AI assistant that improves user interaction by comprehending the content being viewed, retaining browsing history, and aiding with various tasks. Presently, Dia is still in its beta stage, allowing users to navigate its features and provide feedback.

#### Subscription Details

The newly launched Dia Pro subscription plan is set at $20 monthly. This plan grants users unrestricted access to the AI assistant, marking a considerable improvement over the complimentary version. Free users will continue to have access to all browser features but might face usage constraints depending on their activity levels.

#### Usage Limits for Free Users

Currently, specific information regarding the restrictions for free users has not been revealed. However, CEO Josh Miller noted in a recent interview that the browser will remain free for those who use the AI tool infrequently, particularly for individuals who interact with it merely a few times weekly.

#### Community Feedback

The shift from Arc to Dia has generated mixed responses among users. While some are enthusiastic about the new features and AI integration, others show disappointment over Arc’s discontinuation. The Browser Company invites users to express their experiences and opinions in the comments section.

#### Conclusion

With the rollout of the Dia Pro subscription plan, The Browser Company is positioning Dia as a formidable contender in the AI-enhanced browser landscape. Users now have the opportunity to elevate their browsing experience with advanced AI tools, while still having access to a free version of the browser for casual use.

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Apple Maps Launches Bicycle Routing Capability in Hong Kong and Taiwan

### Apple Maps Enhances Cycling Directions: A Global Overview

When Apple initially launched cycling directions on Apple Maps, this functionality was initially accessible in select urban areas such as New York and Beijing. Since its limited launch in 2020, Apple has progressively broadened its scope, now incorporating cycling directions in locations like Hong Kong and Taiwan.

For cyclists, obtaining comprehensive information is essential for efficient route planning. Important factors include the presence of bike paths and lanes, their extent along the route, and the elevation changes that could influence the journey. Apple Maps endeavors to meet these requirements by offering optimized routes specifically tailored for cyclists, prioritizing bike-friendly paths rather than those intended for pedestrians or motor vehicles.

The expansion of cycling directions has reached several bike-friendly nations, including the Netherlands, renowned for its vast cycling infrastructure. Currently, the feature is also being introduced in Hong Kong and Taiwan, providing alternatives to bypass hills and congested roads, thereby improving the overall cycling experience.

Despite this growth, Apple has not yet refreshed its official list of regions offering cycling directions to encompass Hong Kong and Taiwan. At present, the supported regions stated on Apple’s website consist of:

– Australia
– Austria
– Belgium
– Canada
– China mainland
– Denmark
– Finland
– France
– Germany
– Greece
– Ireland
– Italy
– Japan
– Monaco
– Netherlands
– New Zealand
– Norway
– Portugal
– San Marino
– Singapore
– Spain
– Sweden
– Switzerland
– Thailand
– United Kingdom
– United States
– Vatican City

As Apple continues to enhance its mapping features, users can look forward to additional updates concerning the inclusion of more areas for cycling directions.

For individuals who take advantage of cycling directions in Apple Maps, sharing experiences and feedback can yield valuable insights into the feature’s efficacy and potential areas for enhancement.

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Apple Arcade Introduces Four New Titles, Including Play-Doh World

As anticipated last month, Apple has unveiled four new titles for Apple Arcade today, enhancing its collection of over 200 ad-free games for subscribers. Here’s what’s new.

## Play-Doh World

Play-Doh casts its spell in the digital realm with Play-Doh World, enabling players to create their own characters and see them come to life. From designing quirky zoo creatures to crafting wild salon hairstyles, each part of this vibrant universe responds to the player’s inventive desires. With numerous interactive areas, collectible exclusive Play-Doh, and consistent content updates, Play-Doh World presents creative endeavors and limitless, imagination-driven play — all within a secure, ad-free setting.

[Play Play-Doh World on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/4mmK6xo)

## Worms Across Worlds

Worms Across Worlds represents the next chapter of the acclaimed series. When Professor Worminkle’s experiments jeopardize reality, the beloved worm warriors find themselves racing through five uniquely different dimensions. Players will pursue the mad scientist across worlds in this strategic turn-based action title. Whether engaging solo or coordinating epic four-team multiplayer chaos, each challenge and dimension brings players closer to halting the professor’s trail of chaos.

[Play Worms Across Worlds on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/3Uh19ot)

## Let’s Go Mightycat!

An ordinary cat transforms into an unexpected cosmic champion when a powerful entity turns it into the universe’s cutest conqueror. In this derivative of the popular tower defense game The Battle Cats, players can personalize their heroic feline with fashionable capes, save intergalactic companions, and propel Mightycat through vibrant planetary levels. With a range of challenging puzzle stages, every tap draws players nearer to the ultimate objective: to bring every planet in the universe under the Cat Empire’s charming yet powerful paw.

[Play Let’s Go Mightycat! on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/4opcaBW)

## Everybody Shogi

Everybody Shogi is a wonderfully reimagined version of the classic Japanese strategic board game. Combining vibrant graphics, user-friendly controls, and captivating puzzle-like levels, the game presents shogi in a relaxed yet tactical manner. Players can partake in daily challenges, unlock exclusive piece designs, and create personalized decks. With real-time matches against global players and smooth crossplay across devices, Everybody Shogi welcomes everyone to delve into the intricacies of shogi through fast-paced gameplay in a lively and inviting environment.

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Apple Watch Ultra 3 Display Size Information and iPhone 17 Event Date Uncovered

# Apple Rumor Replay: Fresh Insights on Upcoming Products

This is **Rumor Replay**, a weekly feature at *9to5Mac* providing a brief summary of the latest Apple product speculations, along with analysis and commentary. Today: Apple Watch Ultra 3’s screen enhancement, iPhone 17 event date, intriguing case leaks, an OLED MacBook Pro, and more. Here are this week’s Apple rumors.

## Apple Watch Ultra 3 Featuring Bigger Display

Following the release of iOS 26 beta 5 earlier this week, Aaron Perris found that it contains an Apple Watch image with a resolution not corresponding to any current models. All indicators suggest this is a new screen size for the Apple Watch Ultra 3. The increased resolution is 422 x 514, slightly higher than the 410 x 502 resolution of Apple Watch Ultra screens.

### My Observations

Last year, the Apple Watch Series 10 launched with numerous significant enhancements. Conversely, the Apple Watch Ultra received no major updates apart from a satin black finish. It’s exciting to see that this year’s Apple Watch Ultra 3 seems poised to compensate for the two-year hiatus. It always seemed peculiar that the 46mm Series 10 had a technically larger display than the Ultra. Even if the size enlargement this year isn’t dramatic, it should still suffice to reclaim the size title for the Ultra. My main question is: will the case size also increase, and if it does, can Apple incorporate a bigger battery? Or is the screen enhancement merely a result of thinner bezels?

## iPhone 17: Apple Event Date, Batteries, and Cases

With a month left until Apple’s anticipated iPhone 17 reveal, a trio of fresh rumors emerged this week.

– The iPhone 17 event is reportedly scheduled for **Tuesday, September 9**, as per internal documents from German carriers.
– Leaked photos showed side-by-side comparisons of batteries for the iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro.
– Images allegedly depicting Apple’s official iPhone 17 silicone cases revealed a hole for lanyard attachments and a distinctive “liquid silicone” design option.

### My Observations

September 9 has always appeared to be the ideal date for the iPhone event based on historical trends, so this is not surprising. The significant disparity in battery sizes between the iPhone 17 Air and Pro also doesn’t come as a shock. The iPhone 17 cases shared represent a particularly intriguing rumor. The addition of lanyard holes to the case is an interesting innovation. I’m curious whether we’ll see both wrist and neck-length lanyards as new options. I also ponder if there’s more to the “Liquid Silicone” cases than what is evident now.

## OLED MacBook Pro Still Anticipated in 2026

A report from Omdia indicates that Samsung will provide OLED displays for a new MacBook Pro model expected to launch in 2026. This transition will also reportedly involve a shift from the existing notch design to a pill-shaped cutout, potentially accommodating the Dynamic Island.

### My Observations

We’ve encountered previous reports regarding the MacBook Pro receiving OLED in 2026 and moving away from the notch. Although some speculated that a possible delay in the M5 MacBook Pro could postpone the anticipated M6 OLED model, it appears that shouldn’t be the case. The Dynamic Island has proven to be a valuable addition to the iPhone, but I’m uncertain about its effectiveness on a Mac. Apple has indeed prepared the ground this year by introducing Live Activities to macOS Tahoe.

## New Apple TV 4K Could Debut as Soon as Next Month

Referencing an unnamed source, *MacRumors* reported this week that a new Apple TV 4K is still projected to launch before year-end. This assertion aligns with prior information from Mark Gurman at *Bloomberg* regarding an imminent release.

### My Observations

Traditionally, Apple has occasionally unveiled Apple TV products during its September event and sometimes later in the autumn. My guess is on a September launch this year. Apple TV+ boasts a robust fall lineup that Apple will surely want to showcase during its iPhone 17 event. Consequently, it would make considerable sense to introduce the new Apple TV 4K concurrently—even if it doesn’t ship immediately.

What are your insights from this week’s Apple rumors? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Latest Enhancements and Modifications for Apple Wallet in iOS 26

# Apple Wallet in iOS 26: New Features and Enhancements

Apple Wallet, an essential application for iOS users, is set to undergo major updates in iOS 26, featuring a redesigned Liquid Glass interface and a variety of new functionalities designed to enhance user interaction. Here’s an in-depth overview of what’s coming to Apple Wallet.

## Boarding Pass Upgrades

Digital boarding passes have established themselves as a fundamental element of the Wallet app, and iOS 26 brings forth numerous improvements:

– **Live Activities**: Users now have the ability to share their Live Activity with friends or family, making it simpler to keep others updated on flight information.
– **Airport Maps**: Improved navigation within airports will assist users in finding their way more effectively.
– **Luggage Tracking with Find My**: This feature enables travelers to monitor their luggage in real-time, offering reassurance throughout their journey.

With these enhancements, Apple aims to optimize the travel experience for users.

## US Passport Support

In a notable advancement, iOS 26 will incorporate support for US passports in Apple Wallet. This addition enables users to use their digital passport as a form of identification at TSA checkpoints, within applications, and during in-person interactions. However, it is advisable for users to check specific airport regulations regarding digital IDs prior to their travels.

## Order Tracking Powered by Apple Intelligence

The order tracking capability of Apple Wallet, which debuted in iOS 16, is receiving a significant upgrade in iOS 26. Through the incorporation of Apple Intelligence, the app can now automatically recognize and summarize order tracking information from emails received from merchants or delivery services. This improvement allows users to view their order particulars and progress updates all in one location, without needing external support.

## Saved Credit Card Details

iOS 26 presents the option to store complete credit card information directly within the Wallet app. While users will still only see the last four digits of their Apple Pay identifier by default, they now have the option to save the entire card number, expiration date, and additional details. This feature aims to make online shopping and payment processes more straightforward.

## Apple Pay Installments and Rewards In-Store

With iOS 26, Apple Pay users can benefit from installment payment alternatives through partners such as Affirm when making purchases in-store. Moreover, users can access rewards associated with their selected Apple Pay card, enriching the overall shopping experience.

## Notification Control for Offers and Promotions

In response to user requests, iOS 26 introduces a fresh notification category within the Wallet app that enables users to turn off promotional alerts. This feature offers enhanced control over the types of notifications users receive, creating a more tailored experience.

## Conclusion

The updates in iOS 26 demonstrate Apple’s dedication to improving the Apple Wallet experience, making it an even more vital component of the iPhone ecosystem. With new features aimed at enhancing travel, order tracking, payment methods, and user authority, Apple Wallet is set to become an essential tool for its users. Which new feature excites you the most?

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xAI Unveils Complimentary Access to Grok Imagine Video Creator for Every User

### Elon Musk’s xAI Unveils Grok Imagine Tool Amid OpenAI’s GPT-5 Update

Elon Musk’s xAI has launched a groundbreaking tool named Grok Imagine, enabling users to transform images into brief videos. This release serves as a tactical response to OpenAI’s latest upgrade of ChatGPT to GPT-5, demonstrating xAI’s dedication to delivering distinct generative AI features.

#### What is Grok Imagine?

Grok Imagine is a generative AI application that is recognized as one of the few free image-to-video converters accessible to the public. Users can create a new image or upload an existing one via the Grok app, which is available on both iOS and Android devices. After choosing an image, the app presents an intuitive interface with a button that facilitates the transformation of the image into a video format.

#### Accessibility and User Experience

The Grok Imagine tool aims to be easy to use, making it available for anyone keen on discovering the possibilities of AI-generated content. The process starts with selecting an image, followed by a seamless conversion to video, allowing users to rapidly produce captivating multimedia content.

#### Community Engagement

In a recent post on social media, xAI invited users to experiment with Grok Imagine and share their creations, suggesting the possibility for community interaction and engagement. This initiative not only promotes the tool but also nurtures a creative atmosphere where users can display their artistic works.

#### Conclusion

With the debut of Grok Imagine, xAI is establishing itself as a notable competitor in the generative AI arena, especially in multimedia content creation. This tool not only offers an alternative to OpenAI’s products but also broadens access to sophisticated AI technologies for a wider audience. As competition in the AI field escalates, innovations like Grok Imagine are poised to influence the future of how we produce and engage with digital content.

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