AllYouCanTech

watchOS 26.2 Has Been Launched for Apple Watch: Fresh Features and Enhancements

**watchOS 26.2: Improvements to Sleep Score and New Safety Features**

Apple has officially rolled out watchOS 26.2, coinciding with the launch of iOS 26.2. This latest version introduces several significant upgrades, especially in the Sleep Score functionality and the addition of Enhanced Safety Alerts.

### Key Updates in watchOS 26.2

**1. Improved Sleep Score System**

One of the most notable alterations in watchOS 26.2 is the reworking of the Sleep Score evaluation system. The highest rating has been changed from ‘Excellent’ to ‘Very High,’ and the scoring ranges have been modified. Below is a comparison of the updated grading system against the previous one:

| Grade | iOS 26.2 | iOS 26 |
|—————|———-|———|
| Very High | 96-100 | 90-100 |
| High | 81-95 | 70-89 |
| OK | 61-80 | 50-69 |
| Low | 41-60 | 30-49 |
| Very Low | 0-40 | 0-29 |

Despite the alteration in terminology and scoring ranges, the fundamental metrics for the Sleep Score continue to focus on Duration, Bedtime, and Interruptions.

**2. Enhanced Safety Alerts**

Another key feature introduced in watchOS 26.2 is the Enhanced Safety Alerts. This feature is designed to keep users informed about potential hazards such as floods and other natural disasters. It delivers detailed information, including maps of affected zones and links to further safety resources, currently available in the United States.

**3. Bug Fixes and Regulatory Changes**

In addition to these new features, the update resolves a bug in Apple Music that could hinder tracks from progressing. Additionally, due to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), there are modifications affecting how iPhone and Apple Watch share Wi-Fi network information, which will impact users in the EU.

### How to Update

To download watchOS 26.2, users must first upgrade their iPhones to iOS 26.2. The update can be found through the Watch app on the iPhone under General ⇾ Software Update.

### Conclusion

The introduction of watchOS 26.2 brings valuable enhancements, particularly in sleep monitoring and user safety. As Apple works to improve its ecosystem, users can anticipate more updates that emphasize health and safety.

Apple Unveils macOS Sequoia 15.7.3 Update

### Significant Security Updates in macOS Sequoia 15.7.3

With the recent launch of iOS 26.2, Apple has also rolled out major updates for macOS Sequoia 15.7.3, concentrating on essential security improvements. This article details the main updates and emphasizes the necessity of preserving your system’s security.

#### Summary of Recent Updates

In recent weeks, while macOS Tahoe 26.2 betas received most of the focus, Apple has been developing several beta versions of macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.3. At this moment, only macOS Sequoia 15.7.3 has been officially launched, with macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 anticipated to become available soon.

#### Security Improvements

Throughout the beta testing stage, Apple underscored the importance of the updates in their release notes, mentioning:

>This update includes essential security improvements and is advised for all users.

For comprehensive details regarding the security aspects of Apple software updates, users are encouraged to access

iOS 26.2 Launches Innovative ‘AirDrop Codes’ Function: Understanding Its Operation

### iOS 26.2 Launches AirDrop Codes: A Fresh Approach to Secure Sharing

iOS 26.2 has been officially released, introducing a variety of new features, including a noteworthy upgrade to AirDrop called “AirDrop codes.” This innovative feature is designed to enhance the security and ease of sharing files, images, and more with others.

#### What Are AirDrop Codes?

AirDrop has long been a fundamental feature for iPhone users, facilitating quick and convenient sharing between devices. With the rollout of AirDrop codes in iOS 26.2, Apple introduces an additional layer of verification for users connecting with unfamiliar contacts. Per Apple’s release notes, AirDrop codes generate a unique code on the recipient’s device that the sender is required to input to finalize the transfer. This guarantees that only legitimate users can share files, boosting the overall security of the function.

#### Setting Up AirDrop

When configuring AirDrop on your iPhone, users have typically encountered three choices:

1. **Receiving Off**
2. **Contacts Only**
3. **Everyone for 10 Minutes**

The introduction of AirDrop codes effectively adds a fourth choice. If you wish to exchange files with someone not listed in your contacts, you can grant temporary access to each other using a one-time code. Once the sender inputs this code, both devices will recognize each other as AirDrop options for the following 30 days.

#### Managing AirDrop Connections

Users can handle their AirDrop connections via the Settings menu by going to **Settings ⇾ General ⇾ AirDrop**. Apple mentions that users will automatically be visible to each other for 30 days post sharing a one-time code. This capability is particularly beneficial for those who often share files with acquaintances without intending to permanently store them in their contacts.

#### Benefits of AirDrop Codes

The launch of AirDrop codes addresses certain limitations of the existing settings. The “Everyone for 10 Minutes” option significantly compromises security, while “Contacts Only” can be inconvenient due to the effort involved in creating a new contact. AirDrop codes offer a swift, simple, and secure method of sharing files, making it a more effective choice for users needing to transfer files without the complications of contact management.

#### Conclusion

With the debut of iOS 26.2, AirDrop codes signify a major advancement in the secure and convenient sharing of files by users. This new feature not only improves the user experience but also mitigates security issues related to sharing files with unknown contacts. As users become accustomed to this new capability, it will be intriguing to observe how often they take advantage of AirDrop codes for their sharing requirements.

Apple Releases iOS 18.7.3 Update for iPhone: Enhancements and New Features

Apple today has introduced two fresh software updates for the iPhone. In addition to the rollout of iOS 26.2, the firm has also delivered iOS 18.7.3 for those who have not yet transitioned to iOS 26.

### iOS 18.7.3 Arrives with ‘Significant Security Updates’ That Are Advised for Everyone

Recently, Apple designated iOS 26.1 as the standard update for iPhone users. Consequently, when users access the Software Update area in Settings, iOS 26 is the version prominently displayed. Nonetheless, users do have the choice to remain on iOS 18, and for those opting to do so, Apple has issued a new update today.

iOS 18.7.3 is now accessible for iPhone, alongside iPadOS 18.7.3 for iPad. Below are the release notes:

> This update offers significant security updates and is recommended for all users.

For details on the security features of Apple software updates, please check [Apple’s security notes website](https://support.apple.com/100100).

At the time of this article’s publication, the particular security updates have not been posted on Apple’s security notes website. However, they are expected to be available there shortly.

Since the release notes from Apple indicate no additional modifications, it is probable that iOS 18 users won’t observe any other changes in this update. Nevertheless, it is still advised for prompt installation to reap the security advantages.

Generally, when Apple identifies security weaknesses and resolves them, updates are provided not only in the latest OS iteration but also in the previous year’s release. This occurred with iOS 18.7.2 last month, and the same trend is evident in iOS 18.7.3.

Are you still utilizing iOS 18 on your iPhone? What is preventing you from moving to iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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macOS Tahoe 26.2 Launch: Major New Features and Enhancements

After several weeks of beta testing, macOS Tahoe 26.2 is now being distributed to the general public. Here’s a summary of the new features.

## New Edge Light Feature

macOS Tahoe 26.2 includes an innovative Edge Light feature, which introduces a virtual ring light on the Mac’s display during video calls. It is also compatible with online streaming platforms, enabling users to adjust the light’s intensity, width, and temperature.

When the cursor is hovered over the ring light, that area of the effect is dimmed, allowing users to quickly see what lies beneath it. This feature is exclusive to Mac models powered by Apple Silicon, and it includes an auto-enable option for Macs released after 2024 when in dim lighting conditions.

## New Low-Latency Cluster Feature

This update brings a new low-latency capability allowing users to link multiple Macs via Thunderbolt 5. Additionally, full MLX access is now available for M5 Macs, streamlining AI development and usage.

Many perceive this as another sign of the decline of the Mac Pro. Regardless, macOS Tahoe 26.2 enhances the Mac’s capabilities for professional users, although the feature might be too specialized for a significant portion of them.

## General Improvements

As is customary, Apple is addressing bugs and enhancing performance issues from the last version, along with implementing cross-platform upgrades, including the “Urgent” reminders feature, which is also being introduced today on iOS 26.2.

This feature allows users to activate an “Urgent” toggle when creating a reminder, which subsequently triggers the standard system alarm.

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Poll: Would You Concur with This Settlement for the 20th Anniversary iPhone?

There have been ongoing speculations that Apple will be going all out for the 20th anniversary iPhone in 2027. It is anticipated that this year will mark the moment when the company finally realizes its long-desired goal of transforming the iPhone into “a single slab of glass.”

What this implies is that there will be no apparent bezels and no Dynamic Island or any cutouts of any type on the screen. Although this is already feasible from a technical standpoint, it would require one significant trade-off.

### The ‘single slab of glass’ concept

Former Apple design head Jony Ive was the first to articulate this notion to define what he envisioned as the ideal iPhone – where the only visible aspect when looking at the iPhone from the front is glass and solely glass.

No bezels, no Dynamic Island, not even a camera hole. All front-facing technology would be concealed beneath the display. While Ive is no longer with the company, it is widely accepted that Apple still embraces that vision.

The iPhone X was, naturally, the initial significant step towards it, removing the chin with its Home button. The notch for the selfie camera and Face ID feature was subsequently succeeded by a more compact Dynamic Island, and it has been speculated that next year’s iPhone 18 will incorporate the Face ID module under the display, leaving only a minimal punch hole for the selfie camera.

### The 20th anniversary iPhone

Typically, we would anticipate the flagship 2027 iPhone to be designated as the iPhone 19 Pro, yet there have been hints that Apple might leap directly to iPhone 20 nomenclature to celebrate the 20th anniversary – or perhaps utilize a standalone title similar to the approach taken with the iPhone X and iPhone Air.

Should Apple choose a name instead of a number, the most frequently discussed option has been the iPhone Ultra. While this seems plausible, I personally believe that Apple might consolidate hardware and software branding by naming it the iPhone Glass.

With the iPhone 18, the remaining visible disruption to the display will be the front-facing camera. Eliminating this would imply embedding the camera beneath the display alongside the Face ID technology.

This is technically achievable at this point. At least two Android prototypes have been developed featuring cameras concealed beneath the screen. However, a challenge exists.

### The trade-off of an embedded selfie camera

The problem observed with Android prototypes is a considerable decline in image quality for an embedded selfie camera. This has manifested as low contrast and detail levels as light passes through the display layers.

Certainly, technology will have advanced by 2027, and it is probable that any compromise in image quality by then will be relatively minimal. Nevertheless, I would anticipate that photos would experience at least some level of degradation compared to a standard smartphone selfie camera.

The critical question, then, is whether accepting some degree of compromise here would be a beneficial exchange? Let’s envision something akin to the comparison shown below. Nothing overly significant, just slightly less contrast and a touch more blur from the embedded camera.

Would you be willing to accept this level of compromise from the selfie camera in exchange for an all-glass display? Please take our poll and share your opinions in the comments.

Leaked Code Reveals Characteristics of iOS 26.4 and iOS 27

Leaked code from a not-yet-released version of iOS 26 allegedly includes indications of multiple new functionalities being developed for iOS 26.4 and iOS 27 in the upcoming year. Here’s what the code discloses.

### Anticipated Features for iOS 26.4, iOS 27, and iOS 28

Recent disclosures have emerged concerning leaks from an unreleased internal version of iOS 26. The code has revealed an array of features anticipated for future updates.

#### Features for iOS 26.4:

– Long-anticipated AI improvements for Siri
– The ability to save credit cards from third-party applications to iCloud Keychain
– Introduction of folders in Freeform
– “Sports Tier” feature flag for the Apple TV application
– Enhanced security protocols to verify device integrity prior to signing into Apple Account/iCloud

#### Features for iOS 27 and iOS 28:

In iOS 27, new feature flags are associated with enhanced collections within the Photos app. This update will also bring a new pairing methodology for AirPods, likely featuring backend enhancements for quicker and more dependable pairing.

For iOS 28, plans are underway to incorporate new metrics into sleep tracking with the Apple Watch, including time spent in bed. Furthermore, there are indications that the Health app will debut on the Mac with macOS 28.

Several additional features are noted that are not explicitly linked to a particular iOS version but are expected to appear in one of the updates. These features encompass improved Find My functionality for AirPods with a “Precise Outdoor Location” option, possibly unique to AirPods Pro 3, along with a revamped Health app boasting a new categories arrangement and easier metric logging.

It’s unclear how current the code is, and Apple often alters its feature release strategies, so all details should be viewed as provisional.

Which forthcoming features in iOS 26.4, iOS 27, and beyond capture your attention the most?

New Season of Popular Apple TV Thriller by Slow Horses Writer Revealed

**Down Cemetery Road: Season 2 Update and What’s Ahead**

The Apple TV thriller “Down Cemetery Road” has just wrapped up its inaugural season, and fans are set for some exciting news as the series has been officially renewed for a second season. This announcement followed closely after the season finale, affirming that the cherished show will move forward with its captivating storyline and vibrant characters.

### Returning Cast and Crew

The series features renowned actresses Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson, who have received acclaim for their performances. Thompson, who also holds the role of executive producer, conveyed her enthusiasm regarding the renewal, emphasizing her eagerness to collaborate with the talented team once more, especially writer Morwenna Banks. The dynamic between Thompson and Wilson has been a major attraction for audiences, making their return a highly awaited element of the forthcoming season.

### Source Material and Plot Summary

“Down Cemetery Road” draws inspiration from a collection of novels featuring private investigator Zoë Boehm, penned by Mick Herron, also known for the popular series “Slow Horses.” The second season will take cues from Herron’s novel “The Last Voice You Hear,” assuring yet another complex and thrilling enigma.

In season 2, viewers will witness Zoë Boehm (Thompson) and Sarah Trafford (Wilson) reuniting to address a new case that starts with an apparently simple incident—a woman falling in front of a train. However, as they dig deeper, the inquiry leads them into the perilous realm of black market antiques, where they confront a ruthless serial killer intent on hiding his atrocities.

### Anticipated Release

While fans are keen on the return of “Down Cemetery Road,” Apple has not yet disclosed a precise release date for the second season. Considering the show’s popularity and the typical production schedules of other Apple TV series, there is optimism that the wait won’t be prolonged.

### Where to Watch

For those who haven’t yet experienced the first season, all episodes of “Down Cemetery Road” are available for streaming on Apple TV. The platform provides a subscription service at $12.99 per month, featuring a diverse collection of acclaimed shows and films, including other hits like “Ted Lasso” and “Severance.”

As excitement builds for the upcoming season, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates and get ready for another exhilarating journey with Zoë Boehm and Sarah Trafford.

“Four Daily Highlights of iOS 26.2 That Improve User Experience”

# iOS 26.2: Major Features and Upgrades

iOS 26.2 is poised to be the upcoming major update for iPhone users, with its release seeming imminent. This update introduces a multitude of new features that improve user experience and functionality. Here are four significant modifications that have proven particularly beneficial.

## 1. Apple News Navigation Overhaul

Apple’s News app has transitioned from simply showcasing articles to providing a range of content, especially for Apple News+ and Apple One subscribers. The newest update presents an overhauled navigation system that facilitates access to daily puzzles, recipes, and specific sections dedicated to sports and politics. The redesigned layout positions quick links to these features at the top of the Today tab, streamlining access and enhancing usability.

## 2. Apple Podcasts Automatic Chapter Creation

Podcasts become more enjoyable with chapters, enabling listeners to jump to particular segments of interest. In iOS 26.2, Apple employs AI to instantly create chapters for all podcasts, including those that previously did not have them. This feature has been widely appreciated, with numerous users remarking that the AI-generated chapters match the quality of those crafted by podcast creators.

## 3. Updated Sleep Score Ratings

For users monitoring their sleep with Apple Watch, the updated Sleep Score rating system in iOS 26.2 offers a more precise reflection of sleep quality. In the past, the rating could be vague and misleading, but the new system delivers clearer insights into sleep patterns, assisting users in comprehending their rest quality better.

## 4. Liquid Glass Refinements

Apple continues to enhance its Liquid Glass design style in iOS 26.2. Improvements include a wider slider for personalizing the Lock Screen clock and fresh animations for menus and buttons. These updates bring the interface closer to the vision demonstrated at WWDC, enriching the overall visual appeal of the operating system.

As iOS 26.2 is released, users can anticipate these advancements that boost functionality and user experience across a range of applications.

M4 MacBook Air $250 Price Cut Along with Complimentary $25 Gift Card; Special 20% Discount at Twelve South; Leather and Nomad Apple Watch Bands in Stock

### Unbeatable Offer of the Year on M4 MacBook Air – 13-Inch Now $250 Off plus FREE $25 Gift Card

The festive shopping period has unveiled substantial reductions on sought-after Apple items, with the M4 MacBook Air taking the lead. At present, Best Buy is providing the 13-inch M4 MacBook Air at an impressive $250 discount, reducing the price to $749. This promotion also includes a free $25 gift card, making it one of the most attractive deals this year.

#### Key Attributes of the M4 MacBook Air

– **Processor**: M4 chip for improved performance and efficiency.
– **Memory**: 16GB RAM, ensuring sufficient power for multitasking.
– **Storage**: 256GB SSD, with the option for additional external storage.
– **Display**: 13-inch Retina display, delivering vibrant colors and crisp visuals.

This price matches the Black Friday offer and marks a considerable drop from the usual price of $999. The addition of the gift card effectively raises the total savings to $275, making it a compelling choice for anyone in search of a new laptop.

#### Other Deals

Best Buy’s Holiday Doorbuster sale also showcases the 16GB/512GB edition of the M4 MacBook Air at a comparable discount, catering to varied storage preferences. Moreover, members of Best Buy’s rewards program can receive extra bonuses, boosting the overall value of the buy.

### Most Economical M4 Mac Mini Remains at the $479 Black Friday Price

Alongside the MacBook Air, the M4 Mac Mini is experiencing a price reduction as well. The base version, which usually sells for $599, is currently priced at $479 on Amazon. This model features:

– **Processor**: M4 chip.
– **Memory**: 16GB RAM.
– **Storage**: 256GB SSD.

This offer represents one of the lowest prices ever for the Mac Mini, providing an excellent option for users in need of a compact yet powerful desktop solution.

### Apple Watch Series 11 Reaches All-Time Low Today with $100 Off

The Apple Watch Series 11 has also become part of the lineup of reduced Apple products, now available at a $100 discount. The 42mm model starts at $299, while the 46mm variant is priced at $329. These prices apply to a variety of case colors and configurations, making it a versatile gift choice for the holiday season.

### Accessories and Charging Promotions

In addition to the major product discounts, various accessories and charging promotions are available, making it the perfect time to stock up on essential gear for your devices.

### Final Thoughts

With significant reductions on the M4 MacBook Air, Mac Mini, and Apple Watch Series 11, this holiday season presents an excellent chance for consumers to invest in high-quality Apple products. These deals are likely to be in high demand, so interested buyers should act swiftly to secure their purchases before the offers end.