Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Concealed Design Feature in iPhone Alarm Time Selector Uncovered

### The iPhone Alarm Time Selector: An Unseen Intricacy

The iPhone’s interface is frequently praised for its ease of use and accessibility, yet one element that has generated both intrigue and perplexity is the time selector found in the alarm feature. Recent insights have uncovered that the construction of this apparently simple function is more intricate than many users might anticipate.

#### The Time Selector’s Layout

A tweet emphasized by Macworld brought attention to a fascinating aspect of the iPhone’s time selector: instead of being a continuous loop for hours and minutes, both are displayed as extensive lists with clear endpoints. When the hour shifts from 23 (or 11 PM) back to 00, it does not merely revert to zero; it advances to a fresh cycle. The same is true for the minutes, which transition from 59 to 00.

#### User Experience Observations

One user experimented with this function and validated the discoveries. They observed that the hours list starts at 01 and concludes at 16, while the minutes span from 00 to 39, featuring numerous cycles in between. This design decision led to roughly 30 swipes needed to navigate from the beginning to the end of each list, highlighting a lack of fluid looping that users might foresee.

#### Theories on Design Decisions

The reasoning for this design could be related to programming efficiency, although the precise rationale remains conjectural. Users are invited to share their ideas in the comments, as the community seeks to comprehend the reasoning behind this interface design.

#### Additional Investigations in Apple’s Design

The time selector is merely one of many components within Apple’s interface that invites investigation. Another captivating question arises regarding the calendar’s extent within the iPhone. Reports indicate that while some users have ventured as far back as the year 6888, others have stretched the limits to 10005, yet no one has definitively reached the conclusion of the calendar’s listings.

#### The Search for Clarity

As users persist in exploring these functionalities, the search for clarity regarding the time selector and calendar is ongoing. Is there a final entry in the calendar? What other concealed complexities exist within Apple’s user interface? The community awaits a brave explorer to reveal the truths behind these design decisions.

In closing, the iPhone alarm time selector serves as a reminder that even the most basic features can contain unforeseen complexities, encouraging users to dive deeper into the technology they engage with daily.

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FTC Supports Apple’s Stance on Robust Encryption in Light of US Privacy Policy Changes

Apple’s Dedication to Robust Encryption: A Change in the US Administration’s Position

Apple has consistently been a fervent supporter of user confidentiality, especially through its dedication to end-to-end encryption (E2EE). This dedication was recently brought to light when the corporation opted to retract a crucial privacy feature from the UK market rather than compromise its encryption protocols worldwide. This choice was made in response to mounting pressure from the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which aims to oversee online content and safeguard users but has raised alarms regarding potential backdoors into encrypted communications.

In a significant development, the White House has voiced its endorsement of strong encryption, with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) urging Apple and other technology firms to uphold their position on this vital matter. This signals a notable shift from prior administrations, especially during the Trump presidency, when Apple was under immense scrutiny and pressure from law enforcement entities, including the FBI, to unlock iPhones for criminal investigations.

The Evolving Discourse on Strong Encryption

Traditionally, the discourse surrounding strong encryption in the United States has been fraught with contention. Just a year prior, former President Trump openly lambasted Apple, asserting that the FBI should possess the power to compel the company to unlock devices belonging to suspects. This viewpoint echoed earlier remarks made in 2020, when the FBI labeled E2EE as a barrier to law enforcement endeavors.

However, the current administration has adopted a different stance. The US government has recently opposed the notion of creating iCloud backdoors, which would permit unauthorized access to user data. Trump’s administration even threatened to annul a trade agreement with the UK unless it retracted its demands for such backdoors, resulting in a recent concession from British authorities.

FTC’s Endorsement of Encryption

Alongside international pressures, Apple has encountered difficulties within the EU concerning the DSA, which mandates that technology companies implement measures to thwart the spread of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Some interpretations of this legislation indicate that compliance would require the establishment of backdoors in E2EE systems.

The FTC has intervened by contacting Apple and other technology giants, seeking commitments that they will not adhere to any international regulatory demands that may undermine E2EE. The FTC’s correspondence underscores that the DSA cannot be enforced if it threatens freedom of expression and the security of US citizens. It cautions that organizations that do not honor their security and encryption assurances could be in violation of US laws against deceptive practices.

Conclusion

The shifting terrain of encryption policy in the United States showcases a complex interaction among privacy, security, and regulatory demands. The current administration’s backing of strong encryption signifies a considerable change from past positions, fostering a more conducive atmosphere for privacy advocates. As Apple continues to navigate these issues, the ramifications for user privacy and data security remain critical, stressing the necessity of preserving rigorous encryption standards in an increasingly digital landscape.

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MLS Season Pass Price Lowered to $29 for the Rest of the 2025 Season

### Apple Lowers MLS Season Pass Price for 2025

Apple has revealed a price cut for the MLS Season Pass service as the 2025 season advances. The yearly subscription is now priced at only $29 for the rest of the season, with an even lower rate of $25 available for Apple TV+ subscribers.

#### Pricing Information

This adjustment in pricing pertains exclusively to the 2025 season pass, while the monthly subscription rate remains the same. After the 2025 season wraps up, the price will revert to its regular amount of $99 at the beginning of the 2026 season.

Subscribers should note that the MLS Season Pass will automatically renew at the standard price in the upcoming year. Nonetheless, interested users can sign up now to take advantage of the lower price and can cancel immediately to avoid automatic renewal when the 2026 season begins.

#### MLS Season Pass Features

The MLS Season Pass provides complete streaming and on-demand access to all Major League Soccer regular season and playoff matches. Subscribers can enjoy distinct live broadcasts in both English and Spanish, along with live game commentary, pre-match coverage, and post-match analysis.

Moreover, a live whip-around program named MLS 360 is available on match days, highlighting action from all ongoing games. This season also launches a featured match of the week on Sundays, branded as ‘Sunday Night Soccer.’

#### How to Access MLS Season Pass

The MLS Season Pass can be accessed via the Apple TV app, which works on a range of devices including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Android smartphones and tablets, Windows PCs, Xbox, PlayStation, smart TVs, and more. Users can also view it through a web browser at

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Last 11-Inch MacBook Air Labeled Obsolete, Signifying the Conclusion of an Era

### The Legacy of the 11-Inch MacBook Air: Honoring Apple’s Outdated Icon

The 11-inch MacBook Air, once integral to Apple’s offerings, has officially been deemed obsolete by the corporation, nearly nine years following its final sale. This declaration signifies the conclusion of a chapter for a device that amassed a committed fanbase due to its exceptional blend of cost-effectiveness and portability.

#### A Favored Option for New Mac Users

Launched in 2008, the MacBook Air was crafted to be the lightest and slimmest laptop in Apple’s collection. The 11-inch version made its entrance in 2010 and promptly became the most economical choice for consumers wishing to join the Mac ecosystem. Numerous first-time purchasers selected this model because of its lower price relative to other MacBooks, rendering it an appealing option for students and casual users.

#### Ultra-Portability: A Defining Attribute

In addition to its affordability, the 11-inch MacBook Air was praised for its ultra-portable design. Weighing just over two pounds and under an inch thick, it was the ideal companion for individuals on the move. Travelers, commuters, and minimalists valued its lightweight structure, which enabled them to transport a powerful computing device without the bulk of conventional laptops.

#### A Change in Apple’s Offerings

The 11-inch MacBook Air remained available until 2015, when it was phased out in favor of newer models, such as the 12-inch MacBook, which provided a more contemporary aesthetic and improved features. Despite its discontinuation, the 11-inch version retained a devoted fanbase who appreciated its distinctive qualities.

#### Nostalgia and the Conclusion of an Era

With Apple’s official announcement of the 11-inch MacBook Air’s obsolescence, numerous users reminisce about the cherished memories tied to the device. The model’s unique wedge shape and design may appear outdated by today’s standards, but it occupies a special place in the hearts of those who valued its portability and performance.

The personal accounts of users underscore the emotional bond many share with this device. For example, one user remembers moving from the 11-inch MacBook Air to the M1 MacBook Air, signifying a notable transition in Apple’s design philosophy and technology.

#### Conclusion

The 11-inch MacBook Air will be remembered not merely as a laptop, but as an emblem of Apple’s dedication to innovation and user-centric design. Although it is now officially outdated, its legacy will persist with those who cherished its combination of affordability and portability. As technology progresses, the recollections of this beloved device will endure as a testament to its influence on personal computing.

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Kuo Verifies Touch ID in iPhone Fold; In-Display Option Unlikely

### The Much-Awaited Release of the iPhone Fold

Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone sector has generated considerable excitement, with industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo shedding light on the forthcoming iPhone Fold. Scheduled for launch next year, this gadget is poised to transform the smartphone landscape with its groundbreaking design and capabilities.

#### Design and Specifications

The iPhone Fold is speculated to showcase a 5.5-inch external screen and a larger 7.8-inch internal display when fully opened. This design cleverly combines the features of both an iPhone and an iPad mini, appealing to users who desire flexibility in their devices. The projected price tag for this flagship model is approximately $2,000, reflecting its sophisticated technology and craftsmanship.

Apple has adopted a careful stance in crafting the iPhone Fold, following its “best-not-first” mantra. This policy has permitted Apple to gain insights from the experiences of rivals, notably Samsung, which introduced its initial foldable phone seven years ago. Apple’s postponement is attributed to the ambition to eradicate visible creases in the display, a hurdle that has reportedly been tackled by its display partner, Samsung.

#### Touch ID Integration

A key component of the iPhone Fold’s design is the inclusion of Touch ID. Kuo has suggested that the gadget will employ a side-button Touch ID sensor rather than Face ID. This choice is influenced by the device’s slender profile, anticipated to be around 4.5mm thick when opened. The TrueDepth scanning module necessary for Face ID would surpass this thickness, making it unfeasible for the iPhone Fold.

Despite speculation regarding the potential for an in-display ultrasonic Touch ID sensor, Kuo believes this is improbable. The cost-efficiency of a single Touch ID sensor located on the side button, in contrast to the complexity and expense of installing dual Face ID scanners for both the external and internal displays, reinforces this choice.

#### Camera Features

The iPhone Fold is projected to include dual selfie cameras—one for the external display and another for the internal display—along with two rear cameras that will operate in both folded and unfolded positions. This configuration aims to elevate the photography experience, catering to users who emphasize camera performance in their devices.

#### Conclusion

As Apple gears up to step into the foldable smartphone arena, the iPhone Fold signifies a notable advancement in mobile technology. With its cutting-edge design, strategic Touch ID integration, and enhanced camera capabilities, the iPhone Fold is set to attract the interest of consumers seeking a versatile and high-performance gadget. As the launch timeline nears, additional information is anticipated to surface, reinforcing the iPhone Fold’s position in Apple’s product offerings.

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Labor Day Promotions on Apple Items: Reduced Prices on M4 MacBook Air/Pro, iPads, AirPods, Accessories, and Additional Products

### Labor Day Apple Promotions: Enjoy Massive Savings on MacBooks, iPads, and More

Labor Day has become a hallmark of extensive sales and markdowns, and this year is no different, particularly for Apple fans. A wide array of impressive discounts is available throughout Apple’s latest lineup and earlier-generation devices, making it the perfect moment to acquire new tech.

#### Current Offers on Apple Products

This year’s Labor Day promotions have been unfolding for over a week, with numerous offers still up for grabs as the holiday nears. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top deals:

1. **MacBook Savings**:
– **M4 MacBook Pro Variants**: Up to **$300 off** on sought-after configurations.
– 14-inch M4 Max MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB) for **$2,899** (Regular $3,199)
– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB) for **$1,299** (Regular $1,599)
– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB) for **$1,499** (Regular $1,799)
– **M4 MacBook Air**: Now offered at **$200 off**, making it an excellent choice for users seeking performance without awaiting next year’s releases.

2. **iPad Promotions**:
– **M3 iPad Air**: Currently **$150 off** across the board, aligning with the lowest prices recently recorded.
– **M4 iPad Pro**: Significant savings are on offer, alongside exclusive deals for 9to5 readers.

3. **AirPods Discounts**:
– **AirPods 4**: The base model is now only **$1 off** the all-time low price, while the ANC version is also seeing noteworthy markdowns.

4. **iPhone Discounts**:
– With the upcoming iPhone 17 launch, noteworthy discounts on prior models are available. Up to **$720 off** on iPhone 15 Pro Max and notable savings on the iPhone 15 and 16 Pro models can be found.

#### Accessory Deals and More

In addition to the primary product discounts, there are also offers on accessories, HomeKit devices, e-bikes, and power stations, ensuring a thorough shopping experience for tech aficionados.

#### Conclusion

Labor Day offers an outstanding chance for shoppers to capitalize on exceptional discounts on Apple products. Whether you’re aiming to upgrade your MacBook, purchase a new iPad, or obtain the latest AirPods, this is the ideal moment to buy. With markdowns reaching up to $300 off on MacBooks and significant savings on iPads and iPhones, buyers can discover fantastic deals that will extend well past the holiday.

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Apple Store Unveils New Layout Showcasing Merged Genius Bar and Pickup Counter

### The Advancement of Apple’s Pickup Counter: Improving Customer Experience

A specialized Pickup counter has surfaced as a vital innovation in the design of Apple stores in recent years, simplifying the process for customers choosing in-store pickup of their online purchases. This initiative, launched in 2021, marks a transition towards a more effective retail experience.

#### Express Counters Leading to Pickup

Apple’s progression towards swift pickup initiated over ten years ago with the launch of Express Counters. These counters showcased a variety of sought-after products, including iPhones and iPads, and found particular success in markets like China. The COVID-19 pandemic further propelled the rise of curbside pickup for pre-ordered goods, underscoring the need for a faster collection method. This prompted the creation of the Pickup counter, enabling customers to collect their orders in just minutes, drastically cutting down wait times compared to conventional approaches.

#### Merging Genius Bar and Pickup Counter

Recently, Apple has unified the Pickup counter with the Genius Bar in its modern store layouts, including the new Apple Hebbal store in Bengaluru, India. This integration acts as an efficient space-saving solution in smaller retail settings while ensuring a straightforward and effective pickup process for customers. The configuration allows for quick order collection with minimal hassle, even though it may slightly increase foot traffic at the Genius Bar. Nevertheless, the short duration of pickup visits is not expected to create substantial congestion.

#### Apple Hebbal Store

The Apple Hebbal store exemplifies this innovative design concept, with no significant alterations reported in its configuration. For those curious, a collection of images from the store’s grand opening is available in Apple’s official announcement. Furthermore, customers can acquire exclusive wallpapers from the new store, deepening their connection to the brand.

#### Featured Accessories

Apple persistently highlights the role of accessories in enriching the user experience. The amalgamation of the Pickup counter with the Genius Bar not only maximizes space but also reinforces Apple’s dedication to delivering a seamless shopping experience. As the company evolves its retail approach, the emphasis continues to be on customer convenience and satisfaction.

In summary, Apple’s Pickup counter signifies a noteworthy progression in retail design, reflecting the company’s ability to adapt to shifting consumer demands and preferences. By merging essential services such as product pickup and technical support, Apple is establishing new benchmarks in customer service within the technology retail sector.

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CarPlay Ultra Anticipated to Debut on Budget Electric Vehicles After Luxury Car Rollout

### The Launch of CarPlay Ultra: A Revolutionary Shift for In-Car Technology

Apple CarPlay has solidified its place in contemporary automobiles, enriching the driving journey by merging iPhone features with automotive systems. This year, Apple has unveiled CarPlay Ultra, a noteworthy enhancement that guarantees more profound integration with a car’s user interface. Initially limited to luxury vehicles costing approximately $200,000, the market is anticipated to shift with the arrival of budget-friendly alternatives.

#### What is CarPlay Ultra?

CarPlay Ultra signifies a significant progression in Apple’s in-vehicle technology. Unlike its earlier version, which largely duplicated iPhone applications onto the automobile’s screen, CarPlay Ultra supersedes the entire user interface of the car. This implies that not only do drivers gain access to their preferred applications, but they can also manage critical features such as climate control and navigation directly via an Apple-crafted interface. The system is showcased on both the main infotainment display and the digital instrument cluster positioned behind the steering wheel, fostering a seamless user experience.

#### Current Availability and Future Outlook

Presently, Aston Martin is the sole car manufacturer to have integrated CarPlay Ultra into its vehicles. Nonetheless, various other brands are investigating the incorporation of this sophisticated system into their forthcoming models. Particularly, Hyundai is ready to make a noteworthy entry in this domain with its forthcoming Ioniq 3 electric vehicle.

#### The Hyundai Ioniq 3: A Possible Revolutionary Product

As per insights from Top Gear, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is slated to support CarPlay Ultra, potentially making it the first budget electric vehicle to feature this advanced integration. With an approximate price of $35,000, the Ioniq 3 is anticipated to offer a range of about 365 miles on a single charge, presenting an appealing choice for buyers seeking both affordability and state-of-the-art technology.

The Ioniq 3 will come equipped with a digitally-centric interface that not only incorporates CarPlay Ultra but also permits extensive personalization. This includes innovative synthesized sound effects that elevate the driving experience, further resonating with the contemporary digital lifestyle.

#### Conclusion

The debut of CarPlay Ultra signifies a notable advancement in the amalgamation of technology within vehicles. With the Hyundai Ioniq 3 poised to introduce this sophisticated system at a more attainable price point, it could lead the way for a wider acceptance of CarPlay Ultra in the automotive sector. As manufacturers persist in innovating and adopting new technologies, consumers can anticipate a more interconnected and intuitive driving experience. The Hyundai Ioniq 3 will be highlighted at the Munich Motor Show from September 9 to September 14, providing an initial glimpse of this thrilling new vehicle.

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Apple Ought to Think About Bringing Back This Previously Eliminated iMac Feature

### Target Display Mode: A Retrospective and Its Potential Comeback

Some time ago, Apple incorporated a software function within macOS on previous iMac models referred to as Target Display Mode. This function enabled users to utilize their iMac as an external display, offering an additional screen option when the iMac became too obsolete to operate effectively as a computer. Nevertheless, with the launch of the 5K iMac in 2015, Apple phased out this feature due to technical constraints that existed at that time.

#### Technical Constraints and Phasing Out

The main factor behind the phasing out of Target Display Mode was Thunderbolt 2’s inability to support the high display bandwidth necessary for 5K resolution. Consequently, the final iMac models that could utilize this feature were those released in 2014, which had displays of lower resolution. Apple commenced phasing out the functionality with the introduction of macOS Mojave, meaning that users with 2014 iMacs or earlier could not upgrade to Mojave and employ their machines as external displays. The feature was entirely eliminated with the advent of macOS Big Sur, making older iMacs unrecognized as possible display outputs.

#### Present Technology Landscape

Currently, advancements in technology, especially with Thunderbolt 4 and Apple Silicon, have significantly enhanced bandwidth capacities. This prompts the inquiry: Could Apple bring back Target Display Mode? Many believe that Apple might be reluctant, as it could affect sales of their Studio Display, which is priced higher than an iMac yet lacks computational abilities. Critics contend that reintroducing Target Display Mode could deter potential customers from selecting the Studio Display.

#### Arguments for Reintroduction

Although the Studio Display caters to a niche market, there are strong arguments for considering the return of Target Display Mode. While the iMac remains a viable choice, it has drawbacks like a smaller display size and lower brightness compared to newer options. Reinstating this feature would enable current iMac owners to prolong the life of their devices, preventing these high-quality displays from being wasted as users transition to newer models.

#### Sustainability and Future Implications

Apple has made sustainability a fundamental aspect of its product design ethos. Thus, it appears contradictory to eliminate a function that could extend the useful life of the iMac, especially when it could be achieved through a simple software update. Moreover, there are rumors that the next iteration of the Studio Display may incorporate a 120Hz miniLED panel, making it a more appealing choice for consumers evaluating display specifications.

#### Conclusion

To sum up, the possible reintroduction of Target Display Mode could benefit both Apple and its users. It would offer a pragmatic solution for current iMac users while aligning with Apple’s sustainability objectives. As technology progresses, it may be prudent for Apple to reconsider this feature, enabling users to optimize the functionality of their devices.

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Future Iterations of Apple Vision Pro: Anticipated Advancements and Timeline

There have been numerous distinct speculations regarding Apple’s forthcoming spatial computer. Is Apple focusing on a budget-friendly model, or is it going all in with a second generation Pro version? Today, we will encapsulate all the rumors surrounding the Vision headset.

## Next-gen Vision Pro

In the approaching months, Apple is set to unveil an upgrade for the Apple Vision Pro. Speculations have varied regarding whether it will feature an M4 chip or an M5 chip, although current indications suggest a preference for the forthcoming M5 chip. This will provide a significant performance enhancement over the existing M2 chip.

Reports suggest that Apple is also ‘prototyping’ new head straps aimed at making the headset feel lighter on the wearer’s head, despite the overall headset design remaining largely the same.

Aside from that, it will be a slight refresh. Apple might introduce a variant with an enhanced neural engine compared to a standard M4 or M5 chip.

## Vision Pro: Mac edition

Looking further ahead, Apple is contemplating a more Mac-dependent iteration of the Vision Pro. This headset would cater to users who utilize the Vision Pro for specialized applications, such as surgical overlays and flight simulators. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman:

> Instead, it’s now developing a Vision Pro that connects to a Mac. The distinction between the two concepts is the degree of immersion. The previously shelved device featured transparent lenses; the ongoing project will employ a similar method as the Vision Pro.

The intention is to establish an ultra-low-latency system for streaming a user’s Mac display or linking to high-end enterprise software.

Apple was earlier engaged in creating a variant of augmented reality glasses that would sync with a Mac, and it appears that Apple is attempting to revive that now-shelved concept in the form of a headset.

## Long-rumored Vision Air

Since the launch of the product, rumors about a more affordable Vision Pro have surfaced, possibly even before its initial release. We’ve been hearing about a so-called Vision Air model that promises to reduce both weight and cost for quite some time.

In recent months, there has been an increased amount of information, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman confirms that Apple is, in fact, working on a lighter and less expensive Vision Pro. However, he does mention that tariffs might complicate efforts to achieve price reductions.

Gurman provides limited details on how Apple plans to make it lighter and more affordable, but he does mention that Apple aims to address neck strain issues. Design efforts are expected to be completed ‘next year’, with a release anticipated within the following year. Thus, by 2027, we should finally see a lighter Vision Pro.

## Glasses

Although AR glasses aren’t expected to arrive immediately, Apple CEO Tim Cook is reportedly “hell bent” on outpacing Meta in launching a pair of industry-leading AR glasses.

In the meantime, we are aware that Apple is developing a set of smart glasses. Envision Meta Ray-Bans, but with Apple’s touch. These glasses will be lightweight equipped with cameras, speakers, mics, but without displays – making them ideal for engaging with AI. According to Gurman, such a product is set to debut in 2026.

Hopefully, Siri and Apple Intelligence will be ready by then.

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