Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

The activity-tracking platform Strava is introducing a fresh set of activity categories, encompassing several that have been highly requested by its user community. Here’s what’s updated.

Strava is incorporating five new activity types into its platform, which include:

– Basketball
– Cricket
– Dance
– Padel
– Volleyball

This enhancement is designed to offer its “180M+ global users more precise methods to document the activities they already enjoy.” Until now, users engaged in any of these five activities had to categorize them under the all-encompassing “Workout” option, but they will now be able to monitor their performance with greater accuracy, in addition to the more than 50 sports types that are already available.

Strava emphasizes that padel is a particularly significant inclusion due to its swift worldwide expansion, boasting around 30 million amateur players. The company also mentioned that it intends to introduce more sports and activities in the future, though specific information regarding which or the timeline for their release has not been disclosed.

Are you a Strava user? Did you notice any of the new categories? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple TV’s newest film, [Eternity](https://tv.apple.com/movie/eternity/umc.cmc.4dlymcfscta2oo4u1whkzaqpl?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.4dlymcfscta2oo4u1whkzaqpl&at=1000l3cvR), has emerged as a significant success shortly after its release, and the impressive array of films scheduled for the rest of the year is likely to sustain Apple’s cinematic achievements.

## Eternity has topped F1: The Movie for a complete week on Apple TV’s charts

The fresh Apple TV film, [Eternity](https://tv.apple.com/movie/eternity/umc.cmc.4dlymcfscta2oo4u1whkzaqpl?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.4dlymcfscta2oo4u1whkzaqpl&at=1000l3cvR), debuted just in time for Valentine’s Day last week and has accumulated significant viewership thus far.

Eternity quickly took over the top position from F1: The Movie on Apple TV’s film rankings.

I was not taken aback when this occurred at first. An A24 romantic comedy featuring Elizabeth Olsen, Miles Teller, and Callum Turner launching on Valentine’s weekend? Achieving the #1 spot seemed unavoidable.

What has astonished me is how robust its success has remained.

I anticipated that following the weekend surge, Eternity would fall behind Apple’s highest-grossing film ever—F1—on the top charts. Yet even now, a full week post-release, it continues to hold the #1 position in the US.

In summary, it’s another success for Apple—the latest in a series of prosperous film releases.

And the slate of movies set to debut throughout 2026 appears poised to maintain that momentum.

## New Apple TV films scheduled for 2026

Earlier this month, Apple [conducted a star-studded media event](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/03/apple-hosts-apple-tv-media-event-heres-everything-thats-been-announced/) where it revealed some of the most anticipated TV shows and films coming to Apple TV in 2026.

Five future movies were showcased in the presentation, all of which show promise for strong performance.

The dark comedy *[Outcome](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/03/apple-tv-has-new-comedy-coming-soon-starring-keanu-reeves/)* is first on the slate, set to release on April 10, featuring stars such as Keanu Reeves, Cameron Diaz, and Jonah Hill, along with a distinctive storyline.

This summer, pickleball-themed comedy *[The Dink](https://tv.apple.com/movie/the-dink/umc.cmc.5tugaz9vt498ajn7q64ypaqxn?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.5tugaz9vt498ajn7q64ypaqxn&at=1000l3cvR)* will premiere on July 24 as a “hilarious underdog story” featuring Jake Johnson, Mary Steenburgen, and Ed Harris.

Additionally, this fall, Apple spotlighted three major premieres:

– *[Mayday](https://tv.apple.com/movie/mayday/umc.cmc.shin43vzfoz3h4ggx41z8rf?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.shin43vzfoz3h4ggx41z8rf&at=1000l3cvR)*, a buddy comedy/action thriller with Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh, arrives on September 4
– *[Matchbox The Movie](https://tv.apple.com/movie/matchbox-the-movie/umc.cmc.31qa8j1tn2cnpyk3fx43w928d?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.31qa8j1tn2cnpyk3fx43w928d&at=1000l3cvR)*, an action-adventure piece starring John Cena and Jessica Biel, is set for release on October 9
– *[Way of the Warrior Kid](https://tv.apple.com/movie/way-of-the-warrior-kid/umc.cmc.21vzhs44oeejdkoxenkcdmre0?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.21vzhs44oeejdkoxenkcdmre0&at=1000l3cvR)*, set to debut later this year, is generating considerable buzz.

### Xcode 26.3 Receives a Second Release Candidate

Apple is deploying the second Release Candidate (RC) of Xcode 26.3, which will include agentic coding functionalities. This update holds significance as it incorporates AI coding instruments like Anthropic’s Claude Agent and OpenAI’s Codex, improving the development experience for coders.

Earlier this month, Apple revealed that Xcode 26.3 would acquire these cutting-edge coding features, intending to optimize the coding workflow and boost productivity. The initial Release Candidate of Xcode 26.3 was launched around the same period as RC versions of iOS 26.3, macOS 26.3, and other platforms. Nevertheless, when these operating systems officially debuted on February 11, Xcode 26.3 was noticeably missing, suggesting that further enhancements were required.

The introduction of Xcode 26.3 Release Candidate 2 indicates that Apple is still fine-tuning the software to ensure it adheres to the high standards anticipated by developers. Although the specific modifications between RC 1 and RC 2 have not been disclosed, the extra release signifies a dedication to quality and performance.

Developers who have had the chance to experiment with Xcode 26.3’s agentic coding functionalities have shared favorable feedback, emphasizing the potential of these AI integrations to boost coding efficiency. With the arrival of RC 2, it is expected that the final version of Xcode 26.3 might be ready for developers as soon as next week, assuming no unexpected complications arise.

As the development community eagerly looks forward to the official launch, input on the agentic coding aspects remains encouraged.

# The Aqara UWB Smart Lock U400: A New Benchmark in Smart Lock Innovation

Smart locks have transformed home security by removing the reliance on conventional keys. Nonetheless, many still lack convenience, particularly during instances when your hands are occupied. The advent of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology aims to resolve these problems, with the Aqara UWB Smart Lock U400 leading this advancement.

## What is UWB, and Why Is it Important?

Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology is a short-distance wireless communication standard that delivers accurate location tracking. It is the same technology utilized by Apple for Precision Finding in AirTags. The Aqara U400 harnesses UWB to ascertain not only your closeness to the lock but also your precise direction, improving the auto-unlock feature that numerous smart locks currently offer. Unlike traditional Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, UWB ensures a more dependable and seamless experience, positioning itself as a likely standard for future smart locks.

## Matter over Thread with Aqara U400

The Aqara U400 operates on the Matter over Thread protocol, significantly boosting its functionality. Thread is quicker than Bluetooth and does not congest your Wi-Fi network, enabling rapid responses in the Home app. This capability is especially advantageous for households with diverse ecosystems, allowing Android users to manage the lock via Google Home or Amazon Alexa, while Apple users benefit from complete integration with HomeKit.

### Key Attributes

– **Home Key**: Users can tap their iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door, offering an alternative to auto-unlock.
– **Fingerprint Scanner**: A biometric scanner is embedded in the keypad for enhanced security.
– **Passcode**: A concealed touchscreen keypad illuminates for guests, with passcodes overseen through the Home app.
– **Physical Key**: The lock features a rekeyable keyway, compatible with existing house keys.

## Power

The Aqara U400 uses a rechargeable lithium battery, rated for about six months per charge. While some users may prefer standard AA batteries for easy replacement, the addition of a USB-C port allows for convenient charging without the need to detach the lock from the door. This feature is particularly handy for those who might have a portable power bank available.

## Conclusion on Aqara U400

The Aqara U400, alongside the Level Lock Pro, signifies the apex of smart lock technology currently on the market. With its integration of Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Matter over Thread, and user-centric features like PIN code management in the Home app, it establishes itself as a top choice for smart home aficionados. The synergy of these technologies makes administering a smart lock through Apple Home more effective than ever.

For those looking to enhance their home security, the Aqara U400 is available for purchase on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4tbtPzC).

**OpenAI’s Hardware Aspirations: The Smart Speaker and More**

OpenAI is stepping into the hardware realm, partnering with acclaimed designer Jony Ive to create a new series of devices. A recent article from *The Information* indicates that the first product set to debut is a smart speaker, expected to arrive on the market early next year.

### Smart Speaker: The Initial OpenAI Offering

The smart speaker, projected to be priced between $200 and $300, will showcase cutting-edge features, including a camera that can collect data about its users and the environment. This capability might enable the device to identify objects and even partake in discussions occurring nearby. Furthermore, the speaker will utilize facial recognition technology akin to Apple’s Face ID, allowing users to make purchases simply by recognizing items.

### Additional Products in Progress

Aside from the smart speaker, OpenAI is allegedly developing two other groundbreaking products: smart glasses and a smart lamp. These gadgets are part of a wider strategy to weave AI into everyday items, enhancing user engagement and experience.

### Collaboration Dynamics

The collaboration between Jony Ive and OpenAI is intricate. While Ive continues to manage his design firm, LoveFrom, which is tasked with crafting potential designs for OpenAI devices, the actual development of hardware and software is overseen by OpenAI’s internal team. This split of responsibilities has led to some friction, with reports of delays in design updates and communication challenges between the teams.

Additionally, merging members from the Io team, acquired by OpenAI, with the current hardware team has posed further challenges, complicating the development process.

### Competitive Environment

As OpenAI gears up to release its smart speaker, the competitive environment is intensifying. Apple is also pushing its own AI initiatives, which include a lineup of wearables and new HomePod products. The competition between these two technology behemoths will be closely monitored as they both strive to innovate within the AI-focused hardware sector.

### Conclusion

OpenAI’s entry into hardware, commencing with a smart speaker designed by Jony Ive, signifies a notable advancement in the integration of AI into consumer products. With sophisticated functionalities and an emphasis on user interaction, the forthcoming products may transform how consumers interact with technology in their everyday routines. As the launch nears, excitement for these devices is anticipated to increase, sparking discussions regarding their possible influence on the market.

### Current Offers on Apple Products: An In-Depth Look

At this moment, there are numerous noteworthy discounts on well-liked Apple products, presenting an excellent opportunity for consumers to think about refreshing their devices. This article showcases the most recent offers on the 1TB M4 MacBook Air, 16GB/1TB M5 MacBook Pro, and the 11-inch 1TB M5 iPad Pro, along with their accessories.

#### 1TB M4 MacBook Air Price Reduction

At present, the 1TB M4 MacBook Air is undergoing an uncommon price reduction. This model is celebrated for its elegant design and strong performance, making it a favored selection among users looking for a dependable laptop for both personal and professional purposes. The current discount renders it an enticing choice for anyone shopping for a new MacBook.

#### 16GB/1TB M5 MacBook Pro Price Cut

The 16GB/1TB M5 MacBook Pro is currently offered with a $200 reduction, reducing its cost to $1,649. This model is perfect for professionals who need strong performance for activities like video editing, graphic design, and software engineering. The Space Black version is slightly more expensive at $1,692, while the silver model is available for $1,599 at B&H, making it a competitive option against other sellers.

#### 11-inch 1TB M5 iPad Pro at Amazon

In a surprising development, Amazon has listed the 11-inch 1TB M5 iPad Pro at its most affordable price ever, with a discount nearing $200, lowering the price to $1,399.99. This model is especially attractive for users requiring a portable yet powerful tablet for creative endeavors, productivity, or entertainment. The iPad Pro comes in both Silver and Space Black shades, catering to various aesthetic preferences.

#### Accessory Discounts

Alongside the notable discounts on Apple gadgets, there are also remarkable deals on accessories. Apple’s black USB-C cables can be found for as little as $10 with Prime shipping, while the black braided Thunderbolt Pro Cable is priced at $31, indicating a 55% discount. These accessories are vital for users aiming to improve their connectivity and charging options.

#### Conclusion

With these ongoing deals, now is an ideal moment for consumers to invest in Apple products. Whether upgrading to a new MacBook, iPad, or simply expanding your accessory collection, the current discounts offer considerable savings. Be sure to verify the specific retailers for availability and additional incentives to optimize your purchase.

# iPhone 18 Pro: Three Upgrades Are Set to Enhance Battery Life Even More

The iPhone 17 Pro has achieved notable success, particularly recognized for its excellent battery longevity. However, excitement is rising for the iPhone 18 Pro, which is speculated to incorporate significant battery enhancements via three main upgrades.

## Main Upgrades for Superior Battery Life

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro has experienced exceptional customer demand, as emphasized by CEO Tim Cook, and its recent quarterly performance showcases this success. The blend of a novel design, the debut of Cosmic Orange, camera improvements, and remarkable battery efficiency has led to its widespread favor.

Looking forward, the iPhone 18 Pro is predicted to boost battery performance even more with the following upgrades:

1. **Larger Battery Size**
2. **Upgraded C2 Modem**
3. **A20 Pro Processor**

### Larger Battery Size

The most evident upgrade is the addition of a physically larger battery. Speculations indicate that Apple will extend the thickness of its Pro models to support a bigger battery. While it’s possible that this enhancement may be limited to the Pro Max, it is likely that both models will gain from it.

### Upgraded C2 Modem

Beyond battery size, Apple is preparing to swap out Qualcomm’s 5G modems for its proprietary C2 modem. Previous iterations, C1 and C1X, have already shown marked improvements in power efficiency, and the C2 is anticipated to continue this trend, further bolstering battery life.

### A20 Pro Processor

The forthcoming A20 Pro processor, constructed with a 2nm process and WMCM packaging, is expected to deliver enhanced power efficiency. These advancements in chip design are foreseen to play a crucial role in overall battery performance.

### Conclusion

The combination of a larger battery, a more efficient modem, and an advanced processor could lead to impressive improvements to the already stellar battery life of the iPhone 17 Pro. As anticipation grows for the iPhone 18 Pro, users look forward to observing how these upgrades will manifest in practical use.

**The Clash of Cloud Storage: Dropbox vs. iCloud**

In the cloud storage landscape, users frequently face the decision of selecting between various services, each boasting distinct advantages and disadvantages. Among the leading contenders are Dropbox and iCloud, both providing 2TB of storage yet differing markedly in their performance and user experience.

**Synchronization Speed: A Crucial Factor**

One of the main reasons numerous users, including myself, favor Dropbox over iCloud is due to its rapid synchronization speed. Dropbox is recognized for its almost instantaneous syncing capabilities. It allows users to update files across devices with remarkable immediacy. Conversely, iCloud has faced criticism for its erratic synchronization speed, which can take anywhere from minutes to hours, and even days in some instances. This lag can be particularly vexing when handling critical documents that require access on multiple devices.

For example, I encountered a considerable delay while editing a Scrivener document on my MacBook Air. Although I saved my edits, the document didn’t sync with iCloud until the next morning. Such occurrences are not uncommon; they highlight a persistent issue that many users have reported over time.

**Addressing Sync Issues in Dropbox**

Though Dropbox experiences its share of occasional syncing challenges, it provides a simple solution within its Mac application. Users can right-click on a file or folder and choose “Sync Next” or “Sync Now” to resolve syncing problems. This feature proves especially handy when uploading large files, like video clips from a camera, enabling users to determine which files should sync first.

In contrast, iCloud does not offer a comparable option. Users dealing with syncing delays often resort to cumbersome methods, such as signing out and back into iCloud, force-quitting applications, or rebooting their devices. These workarounds can be tedious and exasperating, particularly when immediate access to updated files is crucial.

**The Need for Enhancement**

The ideal situation would involve Apple improving iCloud’s responsiveness to rival that of Dropbox. However, if such upgrades are unattainable, a straightforward “sync now” feature would significantly ease user frustrations. This would permit users to select which files should sync first, especially when managing multiple uploads or pressing document updates.

**User Experience and Feedback**

Countless users resonate with similar frustrations regarding iCloud’s syncing functionalities. The absence of control over synchronization can impede productivity, especially for those who depend on cloud storage for their tasks. A survey or feedback system could be instrumental in measuring user sentiment on this concern, offering valuable insights for service providers.

In summary, while both Dropbox and iCloud provide ample storage solutions, Dropbox currently excels in synchronization speed and user control. As cloud storage technology evolves, addressing these challenges will be vital for sustaining user satisfaction and improving overall functionality.

### CarPlay Receives Major New Features in iOS 26.4, Following Recent Patterns

The past year has been thrilling for CarPlay, with the debut of CarPlay Ultra and the launch of iOS 26, which brought about meaningful transformations to the platform. Now, with iOS 26.4 approaching, it seems that CarPlay’s finest moments may still lie ahead.

CarPlay has consistently been a favorite among consumers, as shown by driver surveys that reflect its widespread appeal. However, for a time, Apple appeared to let CarPlay remain stagnant. After unveiling the “next generation of CarPlay” in 2022, the standard version saw only a few minor updates. Recently, though, Apple’s strategy has noticeably shifted.

The rollout of CarPlay Ultra was a pivotal achievement, followed by iOS 26, which introduced a variety of upgrades such as widgets, Live Activities, and a Liquid Glass aesthetic. Now, as we near iOS 26.4, beta releases unveil two significant new features aimed at further enriching the user experience.

These updates are considerable and are being implemented in a point release just months after the last major launch, indicating a renewed commitment to CarPlay from Apple.

#### Reasons CarPlay Might Be Receiving More Updates

Several reasons may clarify why CarPlay is once again attracting more focus from Apple after years of relative indifference.

1. **Project Titan**: Apple’s ambitious long-term project to create an electric vehicle, known as Project Titan, was ultimately shelved in early 2024. This choice likely redirected Apple’s efforts back to enhancing CarPlay.

2. **CarPlay Ultra**: The years-long development of CarPlay Ultra, which debuted in 2025, may have also rekindled interest in the platform.

Aside from these factors, there are further incentives for Apple to prioritize CarPlay. Automakers that previously adopted CarPlay are starting to shift towards creating their own infotainment solutions. Moreover, progress in technology, especially in artificial intelligence, brings new challenges to the iPhone’s supremacy in users’ daily lives.

By upgrading CarPlay, Apple seeks to deter additional automakers from drifting away from the platform and to bolster the overall Apple ecosystem, keeping the iPhone at its center.

With these distractions addressed and new motivations emerging, there is optimism that the latest enhancements to CarPlay are not simply a fleeting trend.

### M2 MacBook Air Redesign Evaluated in Lively Colors for New ‘MacBook’

Apple’s latest major redesign of the MacBook Air was marked by the launch of the M2 version. Recent leaks from supply chain insiders indicate that the new MacBook Air was initially evaluated in a range of lively colors, a trend that is predicted to persist with the forthcoming ‘MacBook.’

#### Expected Release of New MacBook

A unique press event is set for March 4, where Apple is anticipated to reveal various new products, including a completely new ‘MacBook’ devoid of any suffix, signifying the resurgence of the MacBook brand after the cessation of the 12-inch model. This new MacBook is expected to be priced approximately at $699 and will showcase a selection of “fun colors.”

As reported by Bloomberg, Apple has experimented with multiple color choices over the last year, such as light yellow, light green, blue, pink, classic silver, and dark gray, though not all these colors are likely to be available at the launch.

#### Color Selections and Prior Testing

Ming Chi-Kuo had previously mentioned that the new MacBook could be offered in blue, pink, silver, and yellow. Notably, leaker Instant Digital from Weibo disclosed that comparable color palettes were also contemplated during the creation of the MacBook Air M2, although they did not make it into the final design.

The translated announcement from Instant Digital highlighted that during the M2 MacBook Air’s development stage, Apple had ambitions for a refreshing color palette, but it ultimately did not make it to the market.

#### The Transformation of the MacBook Air

The M2 MacBook Air signifies the latest significant hardware redesign for the Air line, with ensuing models preserving the same design aesthetics. Nonetheless, Apple did introduce some color variation last year with the Sky Blue M4 model.

It remains ambiguous whether Apple had intentions for a budget-friendly MacBook several years prior, which could elucidate the choice to shift color themes for the Air series. Regardless, the foray into lively hues for the MacBook Air and the imminent MacBook suggests a potential change in Apple’s methodology regarding product aesthetics.

### Conclusion

As Apple gears up for its March 4 event, the excitement surrounding the new MacBook and its lively color choices continues to escalate. The exploration of playful colors for the MacBook Air during its development phase adds an intriguing dimension to Apple’s design philosophy, hinting at a readiness to adopt more whimsical aesthetics in its product offerings.