Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### Sales Coach Takes Over SEED on the App Store

In light of recent announcements, Apple has officially introduced its new application, Sales Coach, which takes the place of the previous SEED app. This change was not a total discontinuation but rather an enhancement of the current SEED app, evolving it into Sales Coach.

The revamped app aims to provide crucial sales and technical resources to Apple sales partners worldwide. Per the app’s description, Apple Sales Coach offers users the essential tools for various customer engagements, including product launches, program updates, and sales strategies.

Among the remarkable features of the new Sales Coach app is its contemporary Liquid Glass design. Moreover, it includes an AI-driven chatbot that can be accessed through a new “Ask” tab. This chatbot is capable of answering questions based on Apple’s official documents and materials, improving user experience and assistance.

While the Sales Coach app is available to the public on the App Store, it is crucial to underline that access is limited to Apple employees and approved sales partners. New users are required to acquire a partner code to finalize their registration.

Alongside the app, Apple has unveiled a new Sales Coach platform that can be accessed through their dedicated website, further aiding their sales partners with resources and tools.

For those who are interested, the enhanced Sales Coach app is available on the App Store, and more details can be found on the official Sales Coach website.

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the ever-evolving realm of technology, keeping up with the latest news is vital, especially for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides a simple way to stay informed on the day’s leading stories, offering listeners thoughtful commentary and analysis on Apple-centric topics.

**Podcast Availability**

9to5Mac Daily is available on multiple platforms, ensuring you can listen anytime, anywhere. The podcast can be found on [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), and via a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast apps. New episodes are produced every weekday, ensuring you remain updated on the latest happenings.

**Sponsored Content**

The podcast is backed by BenQ, which provides innovative displays tailored for Mac users. This collaboration underscores the synergy between technology and productivity, helping users discover tools to improve their workflow.

**Subscription Options**

For those wishing to directly support the podcast, there is a possibility to subscribe to 9to5Mac Daily Plus. This subscription grants access to ad-free episodes and bonus content, enhancing the listening journey.

**Engagement and Feedback**

Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback. You can get in touch via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or provide ratings on [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and recommend it in [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808). This interaction aids the podcast in reaching a broader audience, allowing more individuals to stay connected with Apple news.

**Conclusion**

9to5Mac Daily is an indispensable resource for anyone keen on Apple news and technology. With its daily episodes, a variety of listening platforms, and avenues for listener interaction, it emerges as a preferred podcast for Apple enthusiasts eager to stay updated.

### Comprehending the Updated AirTag: A Guide to Recognizing Generations

Apple has unveiled a new iteration of its well-known tracking device, the AirTag. Although the company labels it as “the new AirTag” or “AirTag (2nd Generation),” recognizing the differences between the original and the current model is easy if you know what to observe.

#### Recognizing Your AirTag Generation

The simplest method to identify which generation of AirTag you possess is by checking the engravings on the back of the device. Apple has emphasized that the rear design is a crucial element of the product, and this information is also clearly presented on the packaging.

– **AirTag (1st Generation)**: If your AirTag is the initial version, the back will show the following wording:
– **AirTag / Designed by Apple in California / Assembled in China / Bluetooth LE / Ultra Wideband**

– **AirTag (2nd Generation)**: For the latest model, the back will state:
– **AirTag / FIND MY / NFC / BLUETOOTH LE / ULTRA WIDEBAND / IP67 / APPLE INC**

A significant difference is the use of capital letters. If the text is in **ALL CAPS**, you have the latest generation. If it isn’t, then you are viewing the original version.

#### Purchasing AirTags

When buying an AirTag, it’s crucial to confirm which model you are acquiring, particularly if you desire the newest features. The retail cost for the updated model is set at **$29**. If you encounter an AirTag being offered for less, it is likely the first-generation version.

In conclusion, examining the engravings on the back of the AirTag is a straightforward and effective way to recognize its generation, ensuring you make a well-informed purchasing choice.

# iOS 26.4 Beta 2: New Features and Improvements

One week following the launch of the initial beta, iOS 26.4 beta 2 is now accessible for developers, with a public beta anticipated shortly. This update continues to polish features and unveils multiple improvements for iPhone users, including advancements in RCS encryption, the Games app, and more.

## iOS 26.4 Beta 2 Information

iOS 26.4 beta 2 is presently available for developer testing, featuring a build number of 23E5218e. A public beta is projected to be released soon.

As noted earlier, iOS 26.4 encompasses over 40 modifications for iPhone users, introducing new capabilities for Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, and a variety of other applications.

## New Additions in iOS 26.4 Beta 2

### RCS Encryption

The prior beta brought forth support for testing RCS encryption for communication from iPhone to iPhone. With beta 2, Apple has broadened this testing to encompass messaging between iPhone and Android devices.

Apple indicates:
> “In this beta, RCS end-to-end encryption will become accessible for testing between Apple and Android devices. This feature is not yet released in this version and will be offered to users in future iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS 26 editions. End-to-end encryption is still in beta and is not available on all devices or carriers. Conversations marked as encrypted are securely encrypted end-to-end, meaning messages cannot be intercepted during transmission between devices.”

### Reduce Highlighting Effects

A new option has been incorporated into the Accessibility menu under Display & Text Size: “Reduce Highlighting Effects.” This feature is designed to lessen the visual effects surrounding buttons and sliders, improving user experience for those desiring a more understated interface.

### Games App Improvements

In iOS 26.4 beta 1, the App Store interface was refreshed to shift the Search bar to the top of the Search tab. This adjustment has now been implemented in the Games app in beta 2, enhancing navigation and accessibility for users.

### Additional UI Adjustments

Numerous minor user interface adjustments have been made, including:
– Enhancements to Dark Mode, where menu pop-ups in Control Center now feature a dark background.
– Slight modifications to the Account Hub interface in the App Store.

## Conclusion

As additional features are uncovered in iOS 26.4 beta 2, updates will follow. Users are invited to share any new discoveries in the comments section.

**Apple: The Initial 50 Years – An In-Depth Exploration of Apple’s Heritage**

Acclaimed journalist David Pogue is poised to unveil his eagerly awaited book, *Apple: The Initial 50 Years*, on March 10. This 600-page work is set to guide readers through Apple’s extensive legacy, merging fresh perspectives with familiar stories.

Pogue’s thorough research, which took two years and involved 150 discussions with pivotal figures from both Apple’s history and present, is the foundation of the book. Prominent contributors include co-founder Steve Wozniak, former CEO John Sculley, and design icon Jony Ive. The book seeks to dispel enduring myths about the company while showcasing its significant achievements—such as the sale of 450 million iPods, 700 million iPads, and 2.2 billion iPhones—and its notable setbacks, including the Apple Lisa and MobileMe.

The book has already garnered attention, having clinched the number one position in Amazon’s History of Technology category ahead of its launch. Pogue’s work is characterized as “meticulously researched and richly illustrated in color,” ensuring a visually appealing experience for readers.

Alongside the book’s debut, Pogue will initiate a press tour, with 11 planned events across 10 cities, where he will promote the book and delve into its themes. This release aligns with the 50th anniversary of Apple’s establishment on April 1, 1976, a milestone that will also be celebrated by the Computer History Museum and Apple itself, although details regarding Apple’s commemoration are limited.

Readers can preorder *Apple: The Initial 50 Years* on Amazon, where it is anticipated to achieve a high ranking on the overall Best Seller list upon its release. This book is set to provide a conclusive account of Apple’s journey, delivering insights into the dynamics that have influenced the tech giant and the hurdles it encounters as it steps into its upcoming phase.

Apple is said to have multiple AI wearable products under development, with a new AirPods Pro 3 model featuring IR cameras anticipated to be the first to launch. Here’s why AirPods emerging as Apple’s initial AI wearable is quite logical.

### Apple has three AI products being developed, with new AirPods expected to debut this year

While we wait for Apple’s upgraded Siri powered by AI, it is rumored that the company is working on various wearable products that leverage new AI functionalities.

Last week, Mark Gurman detailed three AI products at Bloomberg:

– AirPods equipped with cameras
– Apple Glasses
– Pendant featuring a built-in camera

According to reports from Gurman, Ming-Chi Kuo, and other sources, the release timeline for these products is as follows: AirPods this year, Glasses next year, and Pendant to be determined.

Speculation suggests that a new AirPods Pro 3 model will be introduced this year with one significant enhancement: integrated IR cameras. These cameras are expected to enable visual intelligence features, including some of the ‘AI companion’-type functionalities that will later be available in Apple Glasses.

The more I consider it, the more AirPods appear to be the ideal AI wearable to debut first.

### Why AirPods Pro may be the top choice for the first AI wearable launch

AI wearables are an emerging market, with examples of both successes and failures. Meta’s AI glasses exemplify the former, while the Humane AI pin clearly falls into the latter.

Despite Meta’s triumph, AI glasses have yet to achieve mainstream popularity. They remain an early adopter product that could evolve into something significant.

In contrast, AirPods illustrate why Apple could gain from positioning AirPods Pro as its first AI wearable.

AirPods have immense popularity. It’s challenging to be in public places without encountering them. This is because users are quite at ease with the concept of wearing wireless earbuds in social environments.

Wearing AirPods in contemporary society is not considered unusual. Moreover, Apple doesn’t need to persuade anyone that AirPods with cameras will be an exceptional product.

Why is that? Because AirPods already represent an appealing product category without AI functionalities. The new model doesn’t need to validate its existence as a category in the same way AI smart glasses do.

Instead, Apple can market higher-end AirPods that retain all the typical features of AirPods—while enhancing value with the integrated cameras.

It’s a form factor that everyone is familiar with. And after Apple collects sufficient data on how individuals are utilizing its new AI-enabled AirPods, those insights should aid in refining the development of Apple Glasses.

AirPods with cameras might lack the excitement of a completely new product category like Glasses. However, they can assist users in discovering value in an all-day AI companion, thereby beginning to make a case for additional AI wearables in the future.

Are you interested in purchasing AirPods featuring integrated IR cameras? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple is presently beta testing iOS 26.4 as its forthcoming significant iPhone update, but it seems that a smaller software release, iOS 26.3.1, is poised to be launched first. Information from visitor logs at 9to5Mac suggests that iOS 26.3.1 is under active development at Apple, succeeding the earlier release of iOS 26.3, which emphasized bug fixes and security enhancements while unveiling a few new features.

The testing phase of iOS 26.3.1 implies that it will bring further bug fixes and optimizations. Traditionally, when indications of a minor iOS build surface in internal logs, the update generally becomes available within a week or two. For example, iOS 26.2.1 was confirmed on January 12 and was subsequently released on January 26, introducing AirTag 2 support and various bug fixes.

With new products anticipated to be launched soon, including a new iPhone model, it is probable that iOS 26.3.1 will be unveiled around the same period. This update might also offer compatibility for upcoming devices, in addition to the regular enhancements in security and bug fixes.

Information regarding iOS 26.3.1 will be disclosed once the update is live. Users are invited to share their feedback on iOS 26.3 in the comments.

# Apple Unveils iOS 26.4 Beta 2: Fresh Features and Improvements

Apple has just debuted the second beta iteration of iOS 26.4 for iPhone users, unveiling a host of thrilling features and enhancements. This update prioritizes elevating user experience, especially with AI-infused upgrades for Apple Music.

## Significant Changes in iOS 26.4 Beta 2

Here are some of the prominent changes and features found in the iOS 26.4 beta 2:

– **Revamped Apple Music Layout**: The views for albums and playlists in Apple Music have undergone a transformation, offering a more user-friendly and visually engaging experience. [Discover more here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/apple-music-in-ios-26-4-has-new-design-for-albums-playlists-and-more/)

– **AI-Enhanced “Playlist Playground”**: This groundbreaking feature leverages artificial intelligence to boost music discovery, enabling users to find new playlists customized to their listening preferences. [Learn more about this feature.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-will-activate-key-theft-prevention-feature-on-all-iphones/)

– **Personal Hotspot Data Monitoring Reports**: Users can now effortlessly track the data consumption of devices linked to their personal hotspot, allowing for improved data management. [Find out more here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/17/ios-26-4-makes-it-easy-to-see-whos-using-your-personal-hotspot/)

– **Additional Enhancements**: The beta version consists of a variety of other upgrades and features that enhance overall performance. [Explore all new features.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-beta-1-heres-everything-new/)

## Other Important Updates

Alongside the aforementioned changes, Apple is trialing multiple new capabilities in iOS 26.4:

– **End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging**: This feature focuses on boosting privacy and security in messaging. [Learn more about it here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-beta-adds-support-for-testing-end-to-end-encrypted-rcs-messaging/)

– **Upgraded Video Podcast Functionality**: The Podcasts app will undergo enhancements to improve the experience of viewing video podcasts. [Read more about this enhancement.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/apple-podcasts-app-gaining-enhanced-video-podcast-experience-in-ios-26-4/)

– **Detection of Stolen Devices**: This feature will be enabled by default on all iPhones, strengthening protection against theft. [More details available here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-will-activate-key-theft-prevention-feature-on-all-iphones/)

– **CarPlay Video Functionality**: Progress is underway for integrating video support into CarPlay, broadening its capabilities. [Find out more here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/17/ios-26-4-preps-for-carplay-video-feature-code-reveals/)

## Conclusion

As Apple fine-tunes iOS 26.4, users can anticipate a variety of new features that enrich their iPhone experience. The addition of AI-driven capabilities in Apple Music and bolstered security measures emphasize Apple’s dedication to innovation and user contentment. Keep an eye out for more updates as we delve into the functionalities of iOS 26.4 beta 2.

Meta is at last rolling out scheduled messages for WhatsApp, addressing a long-awaited demand from users. This capability is presently in the works, as shown by insights from WABetaInfo in a recent TestFlight beta release of the application. While the feature is not available for beta testing just yet, a screenshot unveiled a new “Scheduled Messages” option in the Group Info section.

Scheduled messaging has become typical in numerous messaging platforms, such as Telegram and iMessage, whereas WhatsApp has previously been without this option. Users have turned to alternatives, like utilizing the Shortcuts app, to reach comparable outcomes.

It remains unclear whether WhatsApp’s scheduled messages will incorporate advanced functionalities like Telegram’s “Repeat” feature, which permits users to dispatch messages at predefined intervals. Regardless, the launch of this feature is an encouraging advancement for WhatsApp users, despite its inaccessibility for testing at this time.

After the development is completed, the feature will be introduced to a select group of beta testers for preliminary feedback before its official release.

# iPadOS 26.4 Beta 2: Latest Features and Changes

Apple has recently launched iPadOS 26.4 beta 2 for developers, available through the Software Update section in the Settings app. This update comes after the initial beta release and brings numerous new features and improvements for iPad users.

## New Features in iPadOS 26.4 Beta So Far

The first beta of iPadOS 26.4 introduced a range of enhancements and features, with beta 2 expected to enhance this groundwork. Although specific details about the new functionalities in beta 2 are still coming to light, here are some key aspects from the previous beta:

1. **New Emoji**: Code from the initial beta suggested that Apple intends to roll out new emoji characters as part of the 26.4 software update. Users can look forward to these emoji arriving in the latest beta.

2. **Improvements and Modifications**: As is typical with most beta releases, users can anticipate additional enhancements and tweaks to the operating system. Apple generally utilizes beta versions to test and refine features ahead of the final public version.

3. **Siri AI Enhancements**: Notably, there appear to be no indications of major improvements to Siri’s AI functionalities in this beta. Reports indicate that these upgrades might be saved for the forthcoming iOS and iPadOS 26.5 releases.

As the beta testing phase progresses, users are encouraged to share feedback regarding any alterations or new features they experience. The input from the community is crucial in refining the final release.

## Conclusion

The launch of iPadOS 26.4 beta 2 signifies another advancement in Apple’s continuous development of its iPad operating system. With new emoji and various enhancements, users can anticipate an improved experience. As always, Apple will keep gathering feedback from developers and users to guarantee optimal performance in the final version. Stay tuned for further updates as we explore more features of iPadOS 26.4.