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Forthcoming Vision Pro 2 to Include Three Expected Enhancements

# Apple Vision Pro 2: Expected Enhancements and Features

Apple Vision Pro, introduced in early 2024, has established a high benchmark for augmented reality technology. As speculation surrounding the forthcoming Vision Pro 2 increases, several major upgrades are anticipated to boost user experience. Here are three key enhancements expected with the new version.

## 1. M4 or M5 Chip

The existing Vision Pro is equipped with the M2 chip, supported by the R1 chip for processing functions. For the Vision Pro 2, reports indicate it will include either the M4 or M5 chip, both promising significant performance upgrades. Analysts Ming-Chi Kuo and Mark Gurman have shared insights regarding these changes, suggesting that the new chip will be at least two generations beyond the M2. The details of the M5 chip remain confidential but are anticipated to be revealed alongside the new M5 iPad Pro later this year.

## 2. Redesigned, More Comfortable Head Strap

User feedback has emphasized comfort concerns with the current Vision Pro, particularly related to its weight. Although a lighter version is not expected until 2027, Apple is addressing this issue with a revamped head strap for the Vision Pro 2. As reported by Bloomberg, the new strap seeks to alleviate neck strain and head discomfort, making the gadget more pleasant for prolonged use. Although specifics on the design alterations are scarce, this upgrade is regarded as a necessary enhancement for users.

## 3. Enhanced Neural Engine for AI and Beyond

Regardless of whether the Vision Pro 2 features the M4 or M5 chip, it is reported that Apple will implement a custom configuration that enhances the neural engine. The current Vision Pro’s neural engine comprises 16 cores, essential for executing artificial intelligence functions. The new version is anticipated to boost the number of cores, thereby augmenting its ability to manage intricate virtual environments and real-time image analysis. This upgrade is crucial for advancing the overall performance of the device.

## Vision Pro 2 Features: Summary

The Vision Pro 2 is projected to mainly be a spec enhancement update, but the rollout of a new head strap could greatly elevate user comfort. Current Vision Pro owners might also have the chance to buy this strap independently, improving their devices without needing a complete upgrade. While the price of $3,499 for the new model might dissuade some users, the combination of a more comfortable strap and the improvements offered by visionOS 26 could lead to a more enjoyable experience with the present hardware.

As the release date draws near, users are keen to discover what extra features and enhancements will be announced. What upgrades are you most excited to see in the Vision Pro 2?

HBO Max Aims to Enforce Stringent Policies to Limit Password Sharing

The era of sharing passwords for streaming services appears to be coming to a rapid close. HBO Max has indicated that it’s preparing to initiate an “aggressive” campaign aimed at eradicating password sharing among its users. Here’s what that entails.

### HBO Max Set to Stop Password Sharing Soon

Last autumn, HBO Max—which was then known simply as Max—unveiled plans to inform those sharing passwords that they would have to incur additional charges for that privilege. However, it appears that effort didn’t have a significant impact.

JB Perrette, the streaming head for HBO Max, shared during the recent quarterly earnings call that the company intends to adopt a “much more aggressive” stance toward stopping password sharing.

As reported by Dade Hayes at Deadline, several months of testing have allowed Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) to identify “who’s a legitimate user who may not be a legitimate user.” After this identification, the next phase is to “activate the more aggressive language regarding necessary actions.” By the fourth quarter, the implementation will be carried out “in a much more aggressive manner.”

Perrette mentioned that the existing messaging has been rather gentle and cancelable. It will soon shift to a more rigid approach, compelling users to take action instead of depending on a voluntary method.

HBO Max provides subscribers with an option to pay extra for additional viewers outside their household. However, this isn’t necessarily a fantastic offer for users, considering HBO Max is frequently available at discounted prices or bundled with other streaming services for less.

Consequently, if you are currently sharing an HBO Max account with someone who isn’t in the same household, it seems you will soon need to either pay up or seek another streaming service.

How to Observe OpenAI’s Extended GPT-5 Announcement Suggested by a Death Star Graphic

**OpenAI Hints at GPT-5 with Mysterious Death Star Teaser**

In a recent post on social media, OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman ignited enthusiasm with a mysterious mention of the Death Star from *Star Wars*, suggesting notable advancements are on the way. This speculation is largely thought to pertain to the imminent release of GPT-5, the newest version of OpenAI’s language model aimed at boosting ChatGPT’s functions.

Altman subsequently made a clearer announcement on X, stating that the forthcoming OpenAI livestream will be “longer than typical,” with an expected duration of around one hour. He shared his excitement about the material to be presented during the event, urging viewers to tune in.

For those keen on viewing the livestream, it is set for today at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET. Audiences can save the OpenAI YouTube channel at

The Economic Influence of iOS 26 on Political Fundraising: Demystifying Misunderstandings

**Political Fundraisers and iOS 26: A Misinterpretation of Message Filtering**

Political fundraisers have recently voiced worries regarding a new feature in iOS 26, apprehensive that it would greatly hinder their capacity to raise funds through text communications. The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) forecasted potential losses surpassing $500 million owing to alterations in the management of text messages from unknown contacts. However, Apple has clarified that the feature, which filters messages from unidentified senders, remains unchanged by default and is not as harmful as initially feared.

### The $500 Million Dilemma

The alert was sounded in July when the NRSC commenced planning on how to mitigate the effects of iOS 26. They asserted that the update would have “significant consequences for our ability to fundraise, engage voters, and execute digital campaigns.” The NRSC anticipated that they could encounter a revenue shortfall of over $25 million, and with 70% of small-dollar contributions being sent via text, the overall effect on GOP funding could surpass $500 million.

### …Isn’t Actually a Concern

In spite of the early alarm, the truth is that iOS 26 does not fundamentally change the processing of text messages from unidentified senders. Apple has highlighted that the feature to filter these messages has always been an option but was disabled by default. Users are required to activate this filtering to access a distinct inbox for unknown senders.

The update in iOS 26 does enhance accessibility by repositioning the unknown sender inbox to a more noticeable area within the messaging application. Users can now find messages from unknown senders via a filter button located at the top right corner of the main message list, instead of having to shift away from the primary view.

### It May Assist, Not Hinder, Fundraisers

Moreover, iOS 26 distinguishes between spam messages and those from unknown senders. This modification could turn out to be advantageous for political fundraisers, as users who choose to engage in message filtering will be able to view genuine messages without being inundated by spam.

The essential point is that the message filtering feature is only automatically activated for users upgrading from iOS 18 who had previously employed message filtering. For the majority of users, the feature remains disabled by default, implying that the worries expressed by political fundraisers may be misplaced. In fact, individuals who elect to enable the feature are more inclined to receive crucial messages from fundraisers, as unrelated spam will be filtered out separately.

For additional information on how iOS 26 governs message filtering, you can read further

Apple’s Initial OLED MacBook Anticipated to Include Essential iPhone Attribute

**Samsung Display Secures OLED Panel Purchase for MacBook Pro: A Landmark Moment for Apple’s Laptop Range**

Samsung Display has achieved notable progress in the technology sector by reportedly obtaining Apple’s inaugural order for OLED panels tailored for the MacBook Pro. This advancement signifies a vital transition for Apple into OLED technology within its Mac lineup, set to kick off in 2026.

### Shift to OLED: Anticipated Changes

Insights from Omdia suggest that Apple will embrace OLED technology for the MacBook Pro as soon as next year. Samsung Display is poised to be the main supplier of these panels, which could also enable a design transition towards a pill-shaped camera cutout, echoing the Dynamic Island feature first introduced with the iPhone. This modification is likely to be positively received by MacBook Pro users anticipating the elimination of the conventional “notch.”

### Competitive Landscape in Display Tech

As Samsung concentrates on fulfilling its MacBook Pro orders, China’s BOE is taking steps to infiltrate the iPad supply chain. Reports indicate that BOE is pouring resources into 8.6-generation OLED production using LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology, positioning itself as a potential provider for upcoming iPad models. This technology is already being utilized for iPad Pro displays, matching BOE’s production capabilities.

BOE’s entry into the OLED arena may stimulate heightened competition within Apple’s supply chain, potentially exerting pricing pressure on current suppliers like Samsung and LG Display. It’s worth noting that LG has not yet committed to 8.6-generation OLED production, and its market share could diminish as Apple diversifies its panel sources.

### Challenges Facing BOE

Despite BOE’s aspirations, there are technical hurdles to overcome. While Samsung and LG started delivering OLED panels for iPads in 2024 using 6th-generation lines, BOE has not yet satisfied Apple’s rigorous quality benchmarks. Reports indicate that Apple is working alongside BOE to support its growth, but any production agreements may be restricted to iPad Pro models due to specific LTPO requirements. Other models, such as the iPad Air and Mini, are not expected to integrate this technology.

Should BOE manage to meet Apple’s quality standards, it could drastically shift the landscape of OLED panel supply, potentially reducing costs and weakening South Korea’s near-monopoly on premium OLED technology.

### Prospective Developments

Apple is expected to unveil the M5-generation MacBook Pro soon, with a revamped MacBook Pro anticipated as early as 2026. The shift to OLED panels marks a significant advancement in Apple’s laptop lineup, promising improved display quality and user experience.

In conclusion, the partnership between Samsung Display and Apple marks a crucial juncture for the MacBook Pro, while BOE’s attempts to penetrate the iPad market may redefine the competitive dynamics for display technology within Apple’s ecosystem.

Apple Deal Week Event Now Active: M3 iPad Air at Record Low Price, AirPods on Sale, M4 MacBooks $300 Reduced, and Additional Offers

As we near the conclusion of the week, an extensive array of Apple offers across its latest generation lineup is now accessible. This encompasses reductions on the iPad Air, mini 7, and Pro models, in addition to the M4 MacBook Air, assorted accessories, and more. Numerous bargains represent some of the lowest prices of the year, with many products achieving new all-time lows that exceed the discounts witnessed during Prime Day.

### Apple Deal Week Sale Currently Ongoing

Many of the promotions available now were previously featured on Amazon, but with the new shopping event at Best Buy and impressive deals from authorized retailer B&H, consumers can discover a broad selection of price cuts. This article compiles all the top offers for your ease.

Although the savings may not be as drastic as those observed during Prime Day, there are still noteworthy discounts on AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, with pricing within $10 to $20 of their historic lows.

The M4 MacBook Air series is also presenting its most competitive prices to date, with $200 price reductions across the entire range. Current promotions begin at $799, alongside special configurations that are unavailable on Amazon.

B&H is showcasing especially remarkable offers on the Mac mini, featuring M4 and M4 Pro variants that include configurations not available on Amazon.

This morning, fresh all-time lows were established for the M3 iPad Air series at various vendors, including Amazon and Target. Prices have decreased by up to $150, with numerous models now on offer at significant discounts.

The iPad mini 7, which earlier experienced a $120 reduction during Prime Day, is once again available with deals nearly as enticing, as most of the lineup is now $100 off the retail prices at Apple.

### MacBook Pro Price Reductions

In addition to the Air models, substantial discounts are available on the MacBook Pro lineup, with savings reaching up to $300 on the most budget-friendly M4 models. Higher-tier configurations are also experiencing deep price cuts, resulting in new all-time lows and some of the best prices seen in months. Here are some of the key deals:

– **14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/512GB**: $1,299 (Reg. $1,599)
– **14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/1TB**: $1,499 (Reg. $1,799)
– **14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: $1,699 (Reg. $1,999)
– **14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/512GB**: $1,764 (Reg. $1,999)
– **14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: $2,112 (Reg. $2,399)
– **14-inch M4 Max MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: $2,899 (Reg. $3,199)

These offers provide an outstanding opportunity for buyers aiming to enhance their Apple gadgets at a fraction of the normal cost. With a variety of selections available, shoppers are urged to capitalize on these limited-time promotions before they lapse.

TSMC, the chip manufacturer for Apple, Announces Exemption from US Tariffs

**Apple’s Exclusion from New Chip Tariffs: Consequences and Observations**

In a pivotal development for the technology sector, Apple has obtained an exemption from the suggested 100% tariff on chips and semiconductors, a verdict revealed by former President Trump. This exemption follows Apple’s vow to invest an extra $100 billion in U.S. manufacturing, a promise that emphasizes the firm’s commitment to domestic production and job creation.

### The Context of the Tariff Announcement

Trump’s declaration of the import tariff was intended to enhance U.S. manufacturing by introducing substantial duties on imported chips. This decision was presented as a tactic to safeguard American jobs and motivate firms to establish their manufacturing capabilities within the United States. The proposed tariff provoked apprehension among technology businesses that depend on imported components, as it posed a significant risk of escalating production expenses.

### Apple’s Tactical Advantage

Apple’s exemption from the tariff was primarily linked to its forward-thinking approach in committing to U.S. manufacturing. By gifting Trump a symbolic token—a U.S.-made piece of glass on a 24k gold base—Apple not only received favorable media attention but also reinforced its role as a significant contributor to the U.S. manufacturing arena. Trump’s comments underscored that firms like Apple, which have pledged to manufacture in the U.S., would be exempt from the forthcoming tariff fees.

### TSMC’s Exemption and the Wider Industry Effects

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), a key supplier for Apple, also declared that it would be free from tariffs due to its investment in chip manufacturing facilities in Arizona. TSMC’s exemption highlights the increasing trend of foreign companies establishing operations in the U.S. to alleviate the effects of tariffs and fortify their supply chains. This news resulted in a favorable reaction in the stock market, with TSMC’s stock price and the Taiwan dollar experiencing gains.

### Consequences for the Tech Sector

The exemptions given to Apple and TSMC could have extensive consequences for the tech sector. By motivating companies to invest in U.S. manufacturing, the government seeks to generate jobs and foster economic growth. However, the currency of such tariffs in realizing these objectives remains uncertain, particularly as firms navigate the intricacies of global supply chains.

### Conclusion

Apple’s exemption from the new chip tariffs signifies a strategic win for the company and highlights the significance of domestic manufacturing promises in today’s economic environment. As the tech sector continues to transform, the interaction between government regulations and corporate strategies will be vital in influencing the future of manufacturing in the United States.

Senior AI Researchers Depart Apple Over Diminished Trust

There have been several reports regarding senior AI researchers departing from Apple, and the most recent one suggests the issue may be larger than initially thought.

An AI recruitment firm has indicated that there is a lack of confidence within Apple, with tech competitors now viewing it as an opportunity to attract the company’s engineers.

We were informed a month ago that Apple’s leading AI executive, Ruoming Pang, had departed the company to join Meta. Pang transitioned to Apple from Google in 2021 and was in charge of the approximately 100-member team responsible for the models that enable Apple Intelligence features such as Genmoji, Priority Notifications, and on-device text summarization. His departure represents yet another setback for Apple’s initiatives to develop competitive AI models internally.

Bloomberg mentioned at that time that others on his team might follow suit. This indeed turned out to be true less than two weeks later. Just days after hiring Ruoming Pang, who spearheaded Apple’s foundation model initiatives, Meta is reuniting him with two previous colleagues from Cupertino. Mark Lee and Tom Gunter, both significant figures in Apple’s Foundation Models (AFM) group, are joining Meta’s Superintelligence Labs team.

The Financial Times reports today that Apple has now lost about a dozen members of its AI team, including several leading researchers. Apple has witnessed the departure of nearly a dozen of its artificial intelligence personnel, including top researchers, to competitors as the iPhone manufacturer battles to maintain relevance in Silicon Valley’s cutthroat AI talent competition. OpenAI has recruited Brandon McKinzie and Dian Ang Yap, two research engineers from Apple’s foundation models team.

AI recruiting agency Razoroo notes that the exit of Ruoming Pang was a significant setback and has triggered a wave of additional poaching. “Ruoming Pang leaving is monumental: it signals a crisis of confidence regarding future prospects,” stated Aaron Sines, director of AI recruiting at Razoroo. “Many of our client companies are expressing ‘hey, look at Apple: it’s open season’.”

The WSJ indicates that major AI players are collectively gaining more engineers and researchers.

The biggest risk for Apple is that this becomes a self-perpetuating issue. If leading AI talent departs because they perceive the Cupertino company as lagging behind, then Apple forfeits the crucial expertise it requires to close the gap with industry leaders.

The indicated crisis of confidence is likely why CEO Tim Cook convened a company-wide meeting in an effort to reassure the staff.

Six People Detained for Trying to Steal Trade Secrets Pertaining to iPhone 18 Chip Production Process

**Six Individuals Detained for Attempted Theft of TSMC Trade Secrets**

Six persons have been detained following claims that they endeavored to misappropriate trade secrets from TSMC, a prominent chip producer for Apple. The firm indicated that numerous former staff members participated in attempts to acquire confidential details related to its sophisticated 2-nanometer chip technology. TSMC has since dismissed these employees and is undertaking legal proceedings against them.

**The 2-Nanometer Chip Technology and Its Significance**

TSMC is acknowledged worldwide for its innovative chip fabrication techniques. The 2nm technology is expected to be employed in the forthcoming A20 chips for Apple’s iPhone 18 series. Analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo, have noted that this new chip will be incorporated in all iPhone 18 versions, not solely the Pro models.

**Details of the Claims**

As per reports from Nikkei Asia, TSMC charged the former employees with trying to gain access to proprietary data related to the development and manufacturing of its 2nm chips. The company identified “unauthorized activities” via routine surveillance, which uncovered unusual access patterns by one of the implicated employees.

In response to these revelations, TSMC has enforced stringent disciplinary actions and commenced legal actions. The Taiwanese government is also engaged, as safeguarding advanced technology poses a crucial national security issue. Prosecutors are actively examining the situation, and TSMC has indicated its commitment to pursue prosecution to the fullest extent permitted by law.

**Possible Motive Behind the Theft**

Initially, the rationale for the attempted theft was ambiguous. However, a later report by Bloomberg indicated that the individuals might have aimed to sell the purloined information to a Japanese company associated with TSMC. Tokyo Electron, a Japanese chip equipment producer, confirmed that it had terminated an employee at its Taipei branch in relation to the investigation.

**Conclusion**

This incident emphasizes the vital need to protect intellectual property in the technology sector, especially in the fiercely competitive arena of semiconductor manufacturing. As TSMC maintains its leadership in advanced chip technology, the repercussions of this attempted theft could have extensive implications for both the company and the overall industry environment.

Apple’s U.S. Manufacturing Initiative Grows with Fresh Chip Collaboration with Samsung

# Apple and Samsung’s New Chip Manufacturing Alliance

Apple has recently unveiled a significant advancement in its production strategy with a new $100 billion American Manufacturing Initiative. A particularly captivating element of this endeavor is Apple’s collaboration with Samsung to create a chip manufacturing facility in Austin, Texas. This partnership seeks to introduce an unprecedented chip-making technology that has not been utilized anywhere else globally.

## Cutting-Edge Chip Technology

Although specific information regarding the new technology remains confidential, Apple has stressed that the Austin facility will manufacture chips aimed at boosting the power and performance of its products, especially the iPhone. The press release underscores the significance of this facility in delivering chips that will be essential for Apple devices distributed worldwide.

Apple’s announcement highlights the pioneering character of this collaboration with Samsung:

> “Apple is also collaborating with Samsung at its fabrication plant in Austin, Texas, to roll out a groundbreaking new technology for chip production, which has never been applied anywhere in the world. By introducing this technology to the U.S. first, this facility will produce chips that enhance power and efficiency of Apple products, including iPhone devices sent around the globe.”

## Rumors About Future Products

There is speculation that Samsung might also supply Apple with next-gen ISOCELL camera sensors made at the Austin facility. While camera sensors are not generally classified as components that improve power and performance, the framing of this partnership might align with the current U.S. administration’s emphasis on domestic manufacturing and technological progress.

This partnership signifies a notable transition for Apple, which has historically depended on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) for its chip production. The choice to collaborate with Samsung may suggest a strategic diversification of Apple’s supply chain, particularly as TSMC has also revealed intentions to amplify its investments in the U.S. to $165 billion, including new fabrication plants and research centers.

## Industry Consequences

The effects of this partnership reach beyond Apple and Samsung. It mirrors a larger trend in the tech sector towards reshoring manufacturing capabilities to the United States. As companies aim to lessen supply chain risks and address geopolitical tensions, investments in domestic manufacturing are becoming increasingly vital.

As the tech environment shifts, the rollout of this new chip technology could significantly influence the performance and capabilities of upcoming Apple products. The industry will be keenly observing the progress stemming from this partnership, especially as Apple persists in innovating and expanding the frontiers of technology.

In summary, Apple’s collaboration with Samsung in chip manufacturing signifies a crucial juncture in the tech sector, promising advancements that could transform the performance of consumer electronics. As more information unfolds, the enthusiasm surrounding this partnership is likely to escalate, inviting speculation regarding the future of Apple’s product offerings.