Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**Mactracker Marks 25 Years with Significant Update**

Mactracker has become an essential tool for Apple aficionados, offering detailed information on every Apple hardware and software launch over the past 25 years. To celebrate this important milestone, the app has released a significant update for iPhone and iPad, unveiling a myriad of new features aimed at improving user experience.

**Unveiling Mactracker 5**

The newest version, Mactracker 5, introduces several thrilling features. Developer Ian Page shared that the update contains a new Compare feature, which enables users to spot differences between various Apple devices. This tool is particularly beneficial for individuals wanting to compare the specifications and attributes of different models, such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the original iPhone.

Moreover, Mactracker 5 rolls out a “My Models” feature, allowing users to monitor details about their personal Apple collections. This capability is backed by iCloud Drive support, facilitating effortless syncing of collection information across all devices.

**Highlights of Mactracker 5**

The update encompasses the following enhancements:

– Inclusion of the iPhone Air MagSafe Battery.
– Compare feature to showcase differences between models.
– “My Models” functionality to monitor details about personal Apple collections.
– iCloud Drive support for synchronizing “My Models” across devices.
– Summary view for insights on the “My Models” collection.
– Option to log the physical condition of entries in “My Models.”
– Various enhancements to user interface and performance.
– Startup Chimes can now be heard in Silent Mode.
– Updated information on the latest OS releases.
– A number of minor modifications and additions.

**Availability**

Mactracker 5 is offered for free on the App Store for both iPhone and iPad users. Furthermore, Mactracker for Mac can be obtained for free, either directly or through the Mac App Store.

For additional information about Mactracker and ways to support the app, visit the official website.

**Conclusion**

As it celebrates its 25th anniversary, Mactracker continues to progress, providing Apple enthusiasts with a powerful tool to keep track of their favorite devices and software. The new features in Mactracker 5 are set to enhance the user experience, simplifying the exploration of the extensive history of Apple products.

### Revolutionizing Task Organization: Utilizing a Calendar as Your To-Do List

A to-do list is a widely used instrument for task organization, whether it’s in the form of a handwritten note or a digital application. Yet, an alternative method that has gained popularity is employing a calendar as a to-do list. This technique provides several benefits that can boost productivity and offer a clearer picture of one’s obligations.

#### The Idea

Rather than keeping a conventional to-do list, the concept is to arrange tasks directly on a calendar. This strategy arose from the insight that merely listing tasks can result in feelings of overwhelm and unrealistic expectations regarding achievable goals. By designating specific time slots for every task, individuals can prioritize effectively and handle their time more realistically.

#### Advantages of Using a Calendar for Task Organization

1. **Critical and High-Priority Tasks Are Completed Promptly**: By allotting urgent tasks to early slots, they are more likely to be accomplished quickly without relying on additional indicators like color coding or priority tags.

2. **Consistent Completion of Other Tasks**: Less urgent tasks are still assigned dedicated time slots, ensuring they aren’t neglected. Calendar notifications act as reminders, prompting actions at the specified time.

3. **Keeping a Practical To-Do List**: This method helps avoid overcommitting. Since tasks can only be added if there’s time available, it becomes simpler to manage expectations and prevent burnout.

4. **Assessing Life Balance**: A calendar offers a visual depiction of time allocated to various activities, assisting individuals in evaluating their work-life balance and making sure they set aside time for personal interests, growth, and rest.

5. **Integration with Reminder Tools**: Leveraging applications like Reminders can enhance this method. For example, if a task comes up unexpectedly, a quick voice command can input it into the calendar, ensuring it is not missed.

#### Final Thoughts

Embracing a calendar as a to-do list can simplify task organization, enhance productivity, and nurture a better comprehension of one’s time commitments. By visualizing tasks within a structured plan, individuals can attain a more balanced and realistic approach to their daily duties.

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

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the newest trends is essential, particularly for Apple aficionados. 9to5Mac Daily provides a streamlined way to review the day’s most important headlines, giving listeners a summary of impactful news related to Apple and its ecosystem.

**Podcast Accessibility**

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

**Sponsorship and Support**

The podcast is backed by [Bitwarden](https://bit.ly/48staRo), a secure, open-source password management tool that features end-to-end encryption and seamless autofill options across devices. This collaboration underscores the significance of security in today’s digital world, enabling users to manage their passwords with ease.

**Subscription Benefits**

Listeners can elevate their experience by subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus. This subscription provides ad-free versions of each episode and additional content, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of the topics that matter most to Apple enthusiasts.

**Engagement and Feedback**

9to5Mac Daily invites listener participation. Fans are encouraged to share their feedback by emailing [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) and are welcome to rate the podcast on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) to assist others in discovering the show.

**Conclusion**

For anyone interested in Apple updates, 9to5Mac Daily is an essential resource. With its straightforward accessibility, engaging content, and avenues for listener interaction, it distinguishes itself as a leading podcast for tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re a casual user or a devoted Apple supporter, listening to 9to5Mac Daily will keep you informed and connected to the latest in the Apple realm.

The group responsible for the initial public macOS kernel memory corruption exploit on M5 silicon has revealed new insights on how Mythos Preview facilitated the evasion of a five-year Apple security initiative in just five days.

## A touch of technical context

Last year, Apple launched Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE), a hardware-augmented memory safety framework aimed at significantly complicating memory corruption exploits. MIE is founded on Arm’s Memory Tagging Extension (MTE), a specification that serves as a mechanism for hardware to aid in detecting memory corruption flaws.

At its essence, MTE is a system for tagging memory and checking tags, where each memory allocation is assigned a secret tag; the hardware ensures that subsequent memory access requests are honored only if they contain the matching tag. When the tags do not correspond, the application fails, and the occurrence is logged. This enables developers to promptly detect memory corruption issues as they arise.

Nonetheless, Apple determined that MTE was insufficient in certain scenarios, prompting the creation of MIE, which is embedded in Apple hardware and software across all models of iPhone 17 and iPhone Air. MIE utilizes the chip itself to assist in identifying and preventing specific memory corruption attacks prior to their exploitation.

## Introducing the Calif team

Recently, security analysts at Calif employed Anthropic’s Mythos Preview model to unveil a new macOS security flaw by intertwining two bugs with several techniques to compromise the Mac’s memory and access areas of the device that should remain off-limits.

The team has provided further insights on how they carried out the exploit, including a 20-second video showcasing the kernel memory corruption exploit in effect. They observed that while Apple dedicated most of its MIE efforts towards iOS, it has recently extended it to MacBooks with the M5 chip.

According to the Calif team, Apple invested five years in developing MIE, likely allocating billions of dollars. Their research suggested that MIE thwarts every public exploit chain targeting modern iOS, including the recently disclosed Coruna and Darksword exploit kits.

The Calif team compromised MIE on the M5 in merely five days. Their macOS attack vector was an unintentional finding, with the initial bugs uncovered on April 25th and a functional exploit ready by May 1st. The exploit constitutes a data-only kernel local privilege escalation chain directed at macOS 26.4.1 (25E253), initiating from a non-privileged local user and culminating in a root shell.

They possess a 55-page technical document detailing the hack, which they will withhold until Apple releases a remedy for the exploit. Nonetheless, they indicated that Mythos Preview was instrumental in pinpointing the bugs and aiding throughout the exploit development phase.

Mythos Preview is highly effective; once it acquires knowledge of how to tackle a category of issues, it generalizes to virtually any challenge within that category. The bugs were identified swiftly because they align with known bug categories, but circumventing MIE, a new premier mitigation, necessitated human skill.

The Calif team aimed to evaluate the synergy between sophisticated AI models and human knowledge. Accomplishing a kernel memory corruption exploit against leading protections in a mere week is noteworthy and underscores the potential of this collaboration.

Their finding led to a visit to Apple Park, where they presented their vulnerability research report directly to Apple. They noted that Apple’s MIE, akin to the majority of security mitigations, was formulated in an era preceding Mythos Preview, implying that as small teams harness AI, the realm of security vulnerabilities may undergo dramatic transformations.

For more information, you can read the complete post by the Calif team.

OpenAI has introduced a novel method to engage with its Codex application via your smartphone. An update to the ChatGPT mobile application enables remote access to Codex for Mac on iPhone, iPad, and Android devices.

## Accessing Codex on mobile through the ChatGPT app

Though Codex exists as a separate application on Mac, OpenAI is incorporating remote access functionalities within the ChatGPT mobile app.

“Codex is now integrated into the ChatGPT mobile app, allowing you to remain updated from anywhere while Codex efficiently carries out tasks across your laptops, devboxes, or remote settings,” OpenAI stated today.

OpenAI highlights scenarios involving the approval of Codex tasks and initiating new prompts for the system via your phone while you’re away from your desktop.

> As agents engage in lengthy tasks, a new collaborative dynamic is taking shape. To maintain workflow, you must be able to swiftly respond to inquiries, evaluate what Codex has processed, adjust course, endorse the next steps, or introduce a new concept.

“Codex within the ChatGPT mobile app offers a comprehensive mobile interface for accomplishing tasks with Codex,” claims the company.

“When you link to any machine running Codex (be it your laptop, a dedicated Mac mini, or a managed remote setup), the app retrieves the live status from that setup, enabling you to work seamlessly across ongoing threads, approvals, plugins, and project contexts.”

Here’s how the configuration process appears on the Mac application:

Upon initiation, Codex for Mac displays a QR code that you can scan using the iPhone, iPad, or Android version of ChatGPT.

## OpenAI asserts that ChatGPT’s new Codex functionalities provide more than just remote access

OpenAI describes the Codex features embedded in the ChatGPT mobile app as exceeding mere remote control.

> This extends beyond remote management of a solitary task or assigning new tasks to your computer. From your mobile device, you can navigate through all your threads, assess outputs, authorize commands, switch models, or launch something fresh. Your files, credentials, permissions, and local configurations remain on the machine where Codex operates, while updates are sent back to your mobile in real-time, encompassing screenshots, terminal outputs, diffs, test results, and authorizations.

Remote access to Codex via the ChatGPT mobile application is available now. The latest versions of Codex for Mac and ChatGPT for iOS and Android are necessary to get started.

OpenAI has indicated that support for remote management of Codex for Windows will be forthcoming.

You can discover more about the latest update [here](https://openai.com/index/work-with-codex-from-anywhere/).

Last month, Codex on the Mac acquired the ability to operate applications on your computer without taking control of the cursor. This means you can utilize Codex to execute tasks on your Mac while retaining the capability to use your machine simultaneously.

In addition to improving the Codex desktop app, OpenAI has recently launched a subscription tailored for Codex users. OpenAI also rolled out GPT-5.5, enhancing the functions of ChatGPT and Codex, along with Images 2 for image generation.

Codex made its debut on Mac in February after initially launching as a command line interface tool.

> Launching today as a preview on iOS and Android in all supported regions. Support for linking your mobile device to the Codex app on Windows is on the way. — OpenAI (@OpenAI) May 14, 2026

Apple Card is officially moving from Goldman Sachs to Chase, with the change anticipated to occur in the coming one to two years. Apple has shared information regarding what users can expect throughout this shift, highlighting elements that will stay the same and some unknowns.

### What Will Remain the Same for Apple Card Users After the Chase Transition

Apple has established a specific page named ‘Apple Card Issuer Transition’ to keep users updated on the forthcoming changes. Although some details remain vague, several essential features of the Apple Card will continue to be in effect:

– **Daily Cash Rewards**: Users will keep earning up to 3% unlimited Daily Cash back on all purchases.
– **No Fees**: The Apple Card will uphold its fee-free model, which includes no annual fees, late fees, or foreign transaction fees.
– **Payment Network**: Mastercard will keep functioning as the payment network for Apple Card transactions.
– **Privacy and Data Security**: Apple’s dedication to user privacy and data protection will persist unchanged, emphasizing a smooth transition of account information from Goldman Sachs to Chase.

### Uncertainties During the Transition

While numerous features will stay consistent, there are uncertainties regarding specific facets of the Apple Card:

– **Card Numbers**: It is not clear if card numbers will be modified. Apple has noted that specifics will be shared with users as the transition date draws nearer.
– **Physical Card Changes**: Updates about any alterations to the physical Apple Card will also be communicated as the transition approaches.
– **Apple Card Savings Account**: The effects on the Apple Card Savings Account remain unclear.

### Interest-Free Monthly Installments for Apple Products

A prominent feature of the Apple Card is the capability to acquire Apple products through interest-free monthly payments. Apple has confirmed that users can still employ Apple Card Monthly Installments when checking out at Apple Store locations, on apple.com, and via the Apple Store app. Nevertheless, the language used in the announcement introduces some uncertainty regarding the future of this feature.

### Conclusion

As Apple transitions the Apple Card to Chase, users can anticipate that many of the card’s fundamental features will remain unchanged. However, there are lingering questions about particular details which will be clarified as the transition date approaches. Users are encouraged to stay updated through Apple’s official communications during this time.

Apple has released the enterprise release notes for macOS 26.5, outlining numerous fixes for problems affecting managed Macs.

### macOS 26.5 resolves black screen issues on enterprise Macs

With the launch of macOS 26.5 earlier this week, Apple also shared its release notes and the comprehensive list of security fixes included in the update. The company has refreshed its “What’s new for enterprise in macOS Tahoe 26” page, incorporating the enterprise bug fixes found in macOS 26.5.

This update rectifies issues related to device management service enrollments and unpredicted restarts impacting the MacBook Air with M5, as well as the MacBook Pro featuring M5 Pro or M5 Max Apple silicon.

#### Key Fixes in macOS Tahoe 26.5

– Fixed an issue where some Mac computers could boot to a black screen following a software update.
– Root and intermediate certificates are properly updated upon renewing enrollment in a device management service.
– Fixed an issue where Mac computers restarted unexpectedly while connecting to SMB shares.
– Fixed an issue where MacBook Air with M5 and MacBook Pro with M5 Pro or M5 Max unexpectedly restarted when utilizing specific content filter extensions.
– Fixed an issue where successful smart card logins resulted in incorrect password attempts.
– When autofill is turned off for Safari via device management, Autofill Passwords and Passkeys can still be activated for other applications in System Settings.
– X11 applications using XQuartz now display properly after the application window is resized.
– When the Mac is not connected to Active Directory, the SMB client now conducts DNS SRV lookups for `_ldap._tcp.` and `_gc._tcp.` specified in `nsmb.conf` to identify domain controllers. If domain controllers are detected, the client attempts to connect to each sequentially. Should all attempts to connect to domain controllers fail, the client reverts to the initial server name.

For further information on how organizations can carry out software updates on managed Macs, please follow [this link](https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/deployment/depafd2fad80/web).

**Modifications to the Apple Education Store and Anticipated Features in iOS and macOS**

In a recent conversation, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller explored several thrilling subjects related to Apple, including revisions to the Apple Education Store, the launch of a new Apple Developer icon, and expected design adjustments for iOS 27 and macOS 27. They also examined creative applications for AirPods equipped with cameras.

### Apple Education Store Revisions

The Apple Education Store has experienced major transformations intended to improve the user experience for learners and educators. These enhancements are crafted to offer improved access to Apple’s educational tools and products, simplifying the process for institutions to equip their students with cutting-edge technology.

### New Apple Developer Icon

The reveal of a new Apple Developer icon has stirred excitement within the developer community. This updated design is anticipated to symbolize Apple’s continuous dedication to innovation and support for developers, cultivating a more vibrant atmosphere for app development and collaboration.

### Speculations of iOS 27 and macOS 27 Design Adjustments

As excitement builds for the forthcoming versions of iOS and macOS, rumors indicate that Apple might implement significant design alterations in iOS 27 and macOS 27. While specific information remains undisclosed, speculation includes an emphasis on user interface improvements and enhanced functionality that aligns with changing user requirements.

### AirPods with Cameras: Potential Applications

The conversation also touched on the intriguing idea of AirPods incorporating built-in cameras. While this notion may appear unconventional, Benjamin and Chance contemplated possible uses, such as augmented reality experiences, improved communication features, and inventive methods to capture and share moments effortlessly.

### iOS Keyboard Autocorrect and Dictation Performance

In the extended portion of their podcast, “Happy Hour Plus,” the hosts evaluated the current status of iOS keyboard autocorrect and dictation performance. They discussed user feedback and the continuous advancements Apple is making to improve these features, which are vital for effective communication on mobile devices.

### Conclusion

As Apple progresses with its products and services, discussions like those between Benjamin and Chance offer valuable perspectives on what users can anticipate in the near future. From educational tools to groundbreaking hardware features, Apple continues to lead in technology, influencing how we engage with our devices.

For those seeking more in-depth discussions and exclusive content, subscribing to “9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus” provides ad-free episodes, extra content, and more. Feedback and inquiries can be directed through social media or email, nurturing an active community around Apple’s innovations.

**Apple’s Creator Studio: A Fresh Horizon for Creative Expression**

Recently, Apple unveiled its groundbreaking platform, Creator Studio, designed to empower creators across a range of artistic fields. This initiative illustrates how Apple’s array of creative tools can be utilized for a variety of projects, such as cooking demonstrations, poetry, and music production.

**Overview of Creator Studio**

Debuting in late January, Creator Studio has been crafted to grant users access to a vast assortment of creative applications for Mac and iPad. Apple has branded this subscription service as a crucial asset for both novice and seasoned creators, enabling them to unleash their creativity without the bounds of conventional software restrictions.

**Creative Campaigns and Highlights**

To promote Creator Studio, Apple has commissioned a collection of brief creative works that showcase its features. These pieces highlight various creators, showing how they leverage the platform to actualize their artistic dreams.

On YouTube, Apple introduced three Shorts that illustrate the adaptability of Creator Studio:
1. **Ellie Dixon**: The artist shares her experience of crafting a debut album in her bedroom using Logic Pro.
2. **Molly Baz**: The chef turns a new recipe into a visually appealing video with the help of Pages and Final Cut Pro.
3. **Samba Films**: This collective animates poetry through a unique combination of Pages, Keynote, and Final Cut Pro.

These videos not only demonstrate the capabilities of Creator Studio but also encourage other creators to pursue their own projects.

**Instagram Interaction**

Beyond YouTube, Apple has utilized its newly established Instagram account, @AppleCreatorStudio, to deepen its connection with the creative community. The account displays longer videos that highlight the outcomes of the commissioned projects, along with behind-the-scenes insights into the creative workflows of the featured artists.

A standout piece showcased on Instagram is an animation named “After Hours,” produced by Annie Choi (Ancho), which adds an extra dimension of artistic expression to the campaign. This suggests that Apple intends to continue its promotional activities with more content, including interviews and additional behind-the-scenes features.

**Final Thoughts**

Apple’s Creator Studio marks a significant advancement in equipping creators with the resources necessary to convey their artistic intentions. By spotlighting the work of various artists and fostering engagement through platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, Apple enhances its brand while nurturing a lively creative community. As the campaign progresses, it will be fascinating to observe how Creator Studio continues to motivate and assist creators in their projects.

The car key feature in Apple Wallet has recently broadened its scope to encompass several prominent vehicle brands, with Porsche being the latest entrant. This functionality enables users to lock and unlock their cars using an iPhone or Apple Watch, often automatically via Ultra Wideband technology.

Last year, Apple disclosed that 13 new vehicle brands would soon integrate car keys in Apple Wallet. Among the significant launches to date are Toyota and Rivian. However, General Motors has not yet met its pledge for Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC vehicles.

At present, Porsche offers car keys in Apple Wallet with its 2026 Macan EV, as verified by users on Reddit. This feature will soon extend to another model, the 2026 Cayenne EV, which is now open for orders, with deliveries anticipated to commence in August.

Porsche had previously indicated that both the Macan and Cayenne would feature Apple car key capabilities. With the Macan now widely available, Porsche is poised to have two vehicles facilitating this feature in the upcoming months, with aspirations for more brands to join later this year.

For additional details on Porsche’s digital key capabilities, users can check the automaker’s support page. To determine if your vehicle is compatible with car keys in Apple Wallet, a detailed guide is accessible online.