Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**John Ternus: The Innovator Behind iPadOS and Apple’s Tomorrow**

This past weekend, Bloomberg released a comprehensive profile of John Ternus from Apple, viewed by many as a leading candidate for the company’s next CEO. The article provides intriguing insights into Ternus’ contributions to the development of the iPad.

### John Ternus Advocated for the Development of iPadOS

During the initial phases of the iPad, Ternus contended that the device’s hardware potential was not being fully leveraged due to its software platform—identical to the iPhone’s—not exploiting the tablet’s superior processor and larger display. He advocated internally for a dedicated operating system and ultimately convinced Craig Federighi, Apple’s software head, to create it. This initiative culminated in the launch of iPadOS, which introduced features like desktop-like multitasking, enhancing the iPad’s appeal for productivity tasks.

Ternus also played a crucial role in the creation of iPad accessories, including the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, along with their magnetic charging and pairing mechanisms. His expertise in hardware made it expected that he would influence the innovation of these accessories.

The introduction of iPadOS represented a pivotal software evolution in the lifespan of the product. For a considerable duration, the iPad operated on iOS, which mirrored its initial design as a larger iPhone. Nevertheless, the rollout of iPadOS triggered a plethora of new software functionalities that progressively aligned the iPad’s software with its hardware capabilities, particularly with the latest enhancements in iPadOS 26.

Ternus’ capability to connect hardware and software illustrates Apple’s collaborative culture, where a hardware leader can significantly affect software innovation. As a long-standing iPad user, it is thrilling to witness that Apple’s prospective next CEO holds high expectations for one of the firm’s most cherished devices.

### Conclusion

John Ternus’s impact on the iPad and his vision for its software highlight his potential as a future leader at Apple. His advocacy for iPadOS not only improved the iPad’s capabilities but also established a benchmark for the integration of hardware and software, fostering an exceptional user experience. As Apple advances, Ternus’s leadership is poised to be crucial in guiding the company’s future.

**Amazon Offers on Apple Products: Unmatched Savings on Apple Watch, MacBook Air, and iPad Air**

In the most recent set of promotions, Amazon has unveiled substantial price reductions on a range of Apple products, featuring the Apple Watch Series 11 Titanium models, MacBook Air, and iPad Air. These offers showcase some of the best prices encountered thus far, presenting an ideal chance for shoppers to get premium tech.

### Apple Watch Series 11 Titanium Models with $150 Off

Amazon is currently listing the Apple Watch Series 11 Titanium models at a record-low cost of $649, representing a $150 reduction from the standard pricing of $799. This discount is applicable to all three color options: Slate, Natural, and Gold. Every model is equipped with a coordinating Milanese Loop, enhancing both aesthetics and utility.

– **46mm Apple Watch Series 11 Slate Titanium**: $649 (Reg. $799)
– **46mm Apple Watch Series 11 Natural Titanium**: $649 (Reg. $799)
– **46mm Apple Watch Series 11 Gold Titanium**: $649 (Reg. $799)

Besides these models, additional configurations are on sale at $100 off, presenting a fantastic opportunity for anyone aiming to upgrade their smartwatch.

### Clearance Offers on M4 MacBook Air

Amazon is also liquidating M4 MacBook Air models, providing discounts of up to $300. Following the recent release of the M5 range, the M4 models are now offered at significantly lower prices.

– **15-inch M4 MacBook Air**: Up to $300 off
– **13-inch M4 MacBook Air**: Up to $250 off

These promotions offer a terrific opportunity for customers to acquire a high-performance laptop at a reduced price, particularly as inventory begins to deplete.

### Nearly $200 Off on 11-inch M3 iPad Air Cell Models

As Amazon prepares for the new M4 iPad Air, the earlier M3 models are experiencing noteworthy discounts. Most 11-inch M3 iPad Air cell versions are currently nearly $200 off, rendering them an appealing choice for purchasers.

This price reduction is particularly significant as the M3 iPad Air models were previously marked down by only $150 at the maximum. With the new M4 variants now in stock, consumers can opt for a broader selection of storage options and colors at lower prices.

### Deals on Accessories and Charging Options

Alongside the main product discounts, Amazon is also showcasing deals on accessories and charging solutions, including Apple’s latest Studio Display models. The 2026 Studio Display is now priced at $1,499, down from its initial cost of $1,599, representing a $100 discount.

### Conclusion

With these substantial discounts on various Apple products, this is an opportune moment for shoppers to seize these offers. Whether in search of a smartwatch, laptop, or tablet, the ongoing sales at Amazon enable the acquisition of top-tier technology at reduced prices.

Meta’s Change on End-to-End Encryption: A Regretful Step Back for Privacy

Meta Platforms, Inc. has been under intense scrutiny concerning the safety and privacy of its messaging platforms, particularly Facebook Messenger and Instagram Direct Messages (DMs). For years, the organization asserted that executing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) was a notable challenge. Nonetheless, in 2023, Meta declared that it had addressed these technical hurdles, resulting in the deployment of E2EE for Facebook Messenger by year’s end.

Despite this advancement, Meta’s recent choice to discontinue E2EE for Instagram DMs has sparked substantial apprehension among users and privacy defenders. Initially, the corporation had vowed to provide E2EE for Instagram DMs, but this functionality was hidden within the app’s settings, making it arduous for users to locate and enable. As a result, very few users engaged with it, leading Meta to eliminate the feature entirely, citing minimal engagement as the rationale.

This action has faced criticism as insincere and callous, as the feature was crafted in a manner that rendered it nearly undetectable to users. Davi Ottenheimer, a security professional, pointed out the irony in Meta’s choice, indicating that the company constructed a scenario where the feature’s lack of popularity was unavoidable.

The repercussions of Meta’s reversal on E2EE are troubling. By removing this vital privacy function, Meta not only threatens the security of user messages but also establishes a disturbing precedent for other technology firms. The choice reflects a wider tendency where companies may favor conformity with governmental demands over user privacy, potentially leading to heightened surveillance and data exposure.

In contrast, Apple has shown a commitment to user privacy, even indicating a willingness to pull iMessage from the UK market rather than compromise security. This position emphasizes the significance of companies resisting governmental pressures that could erode user privacy.

As messaging applications continue to multiply, users frequently discover themselves maneuvering through numerous platforms due to the preferences of friends. The elimination of E2EE from Instagram DMs endangers users’ privacy and brings forth concerns regarding the future of secure communications in an increasingly connected world. The scenario demands vigilance and advocacy for enhanced privacy safeguards across all messaging services.

Apple has launched a refreshed version of its Sports app for iPhone, unveiling two major features that will improve the experience for MLB and NASCAR enthusiasts.

### MLB Probable Pitcher

The recent update, version 3.9, now introduces a new data point for Major League Baseball: the anticipated starting pitcher for each matchup. This feature enables MLB fans to know which pitcher is set to begin the games ahead of time. The 2026 MLB season commences with an Opening Night game featuring the San Francisco Giants against the New York Yankees at Oracle Park in San Francisco, with Netflix exclusively streaming the event.

### NASCAR Leaderboard Update

Alongside the MLB enhancement, the Sports app has refined its NASCAR leaderboard by incorporating car numbers. This upgrade simplifies the process for fans to monitor their favorite drivers during the races. The ongoing NASCAR season, which started in February, will run through November, offering plenty of opportunities for new fans to connect with the sport.

### Apple Sports Availability

Recently, Apple introduced March Madness brackets to the Sports app, which has experienced unprecedented downloads following its inaugural Formula 1 race weekend. Apple TV is now the exclusive provider of F1 streaming in the United States, with all race coverage available through the subscription. Furthermore, Apple TV continues to showcase Friday Night Baseball, with the initial MLB games of the season slated for March 27.

The Apple Sports app is available for free on the App Store, enabling sports fans to remain informed about the latest updates in their preferred leagues.

**Season Five of “For All Mankind”: An In-Depth Look at the Alternative History Sci-Fi Series**

The fifth season of “For All Mankind” is set to debut on Apple TV this Friday, offering an enticing continuation for series enthusiasts. The show has progressed significantly beyond its starting point, interweaving emotional narratives and cinematic thrill that keeps audiences captivated.

**Concept and Themes of Season Five**

Per Apple, the fifth season resumes following the Goldilocks asteroid heist, with Happy Valley evolving into a thriving colony on Mars. As friction escalates between Martian inhabitants and Earth, the story delves into themes of legacy, family, and the moral dilemmas of conflict. This season’s storyline, though becoming more fantastical, remains connected to real-world social issues through a sci-fi perspective.

**Character Evolution and Narrative Structure**

“For All Mankind” utilizes an innovative narrative framework, propelling its story forward with major time leaps between seasons. This method necessitates that the series keeps viewers engaged in its created world, ties together the arcs of long-standing characters, and adeptly presents new ones. Season five adeptly addresses these hurdles, rekindling the emotional resonance that captivated audiences in previous seasons.

**Emotional Impact and Viewer Connection**

The emotional intensity of season five is striking, featuring moments that have brought viewers to tears, reminiscent of the profound storytelling from the initial two seasons. Ed Baldwin’s character, played by Joel Kinnaman, continues to grow, enriching the narrative despite some visual disparities caused by aging makeup.

**Navigating Nostalgia and New Paths**

The season adeptly balances revisiting previous themes while unveiling new storylines. Although the premiere may have left some viewers questioning the path, subsequent episodes reaffirm the show’s fundamental essence. The emotional resolutions and character journeys are crafted to deeply resonate, prompting viewers to contemplate the series in its entirety.

**Future Opportunities and Spin-Offs**

With the conclusion of season five, it aligns with the launch of the spin-off series “Star City,” which investigates the space race from a Soviet viewpoint. While the two series may not directly connect, “Star City” aims to broaden the universe created in “For All Mankind,” giving fans additional content to enjoy.

**Access**

“For All Mankind” season five will debut on Apple TV starting March 27, with new episodes releasing weekly through May 29. The first four seasons are currently available for streaming, allowing viewers to catch up or revisit the series.

In conclusion, season five of “For All Mankind” is poised to offer an engaging blend of emotional storytelling, character growth, and thematic complexity, making it an essential watch for series fans.

# The Development of Folding Phones: Apple’s Strategy for Display Resilience

Initial folding phones encountered considerable obstacles, chiefly concerning the fragility of their internal displays. The initial Samsung Galaxy Fold stands as a warning example, having faced serious problems that resulted in the cancellation of all pre-orders shortly after it was announced.

## The Samsung Galaxy Fold Fiasco

The introduction of the Galaxy Fold swiftly turned into a lesson in product development missteps. Just days following the distribution of review units, reports of display malfunctions began to emerge. Samsung reacted by postponing the launch for at least a month and recalling the review units. In the end, the company canceled all pre-orders due to these significant issues, emphasizing the challenges of launching new technology in the market.

## A Resolution to the Noticeable Crease

Apple’s delay in entering the folding phone arena has been linked to worries about the visible crease that afflicts many foldable devices. Reports suggest that Apple dismissed several prototypes from its display partner, Samsung, before opting to engage its own design team to tackle this challenge. The partnership also extended to the hinge mechanism, seeking to improve screen safeguarding.

## Safeguarding the Display

To lessen the chance of damage, Apple is rumored to be introducing new button placements that decrease the chances of injury to ribbon cables during folding. Moreover, a more robust built-in screen protector is anticipated to be integrated into the design.

Recent leaks indicate that Apple’s initial foldable device will feature sophisticated protective enhancements. The device is expected to sport self-repairing glass, an unbroken hinge design, and a dual-layer framework that combines ultra-thin glass (UTG) and ultra-flexible glass (UFG). This groundbreaking setup positions the display panel between two glass layers, reducing direct contact with the hinge and boosting durability while possibly improving crease management.

The Oppo Find N6 recently highlighted features that may coincide with what consumers can expect from the forthcoming iPhone Fold. Speculation indicates that the iPhone Fold might debut a few months post the iPhone 18 Pro, further enhancing anticipation for Apple’s foray into the foldable sector.

In conclusion, as Apple gets ready to reveal its foldable device, it is undertaking substantial measures to tackle the durability issues that have affected prior models, particularly concentrating on display protection and crease visibility.

The technology sector is presently experiencing a major security evolution, moving away from conventional usernames and passwords to a more sophisticated authentication method termed passkeys. This transformation is designed to bolster online safety by removing the necessity for services to retain sensitive login credentials.

Passkeys provide a more secure choice since they employ biometric verification techniques, like Face ID and Touch ID, to authenticate individuals. When a website seeks identity validation, the user’s device activates these biometric functionalities, verifying the user’s identity without transmitting any login information to the website itself. This method drastically lowers the likelihood of data breaches and unauthorized access.

Reddit CEO Steve Huffman has pointed out another benefit of using passkeys: they verify the existence of a human during the authentication process. In contrast to traditional methods, which can be manipulated by bots, passkeys necessitate a physical action, like a fingerprint scan or facial recognition, ensuring that a genuine person is operating the account.

This aspect is particularly vital for Reddit, which has been facing a rise in bot activity on its platform. Huffman underscored the company’s dedication to user privacy, asserting, “Part of our promise for our users is we don’t know your name but we do want to know you’re a person.” This strategy enables Reddit to uphold user anonymity while efficiently addressing bot-related challenges.

Nonetheless, there has been some confusion concerning the execution of biometric technology. Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian voiced worries about marketing face-scanning technology to users. It is essential to elucidate that the utilization of Face ID does not entail sharing biometric data with the application or service. Rather, the service merely obtains confirmation that the user’s identity has been validated through biometric methods.

As the tech industry progresses, the shift towards passkeys signifies a critical advancement in enhancing online security and user verification, while also tackling privacy issues.

**iPhone Air: A Triumph in a Competitive Landscape**

Based on cellular network statistics from Ookla, the iPhone Air has positioned itself as a major contender in the smartphone arena, exhibiting nearly double the popularity of the iPhone 16 Plus during the release period of the iPhone 17. Although it ranks as the least favored model in the iPhone 17 series, the Air’s sales figures have exceeded those of its predecessor, the Plus variant.

The data provided by Ookla stems from crowdsourced cellular network evaluations, particularly through the Speedtest application utilized on iPhones. The comparison of sales figures for the iPhone Air and iPhone Plus relies on the quantity of Speedtest samples collected for each device. In the launch window of the iPhone 16 in late 2024, the iPhone 16 Plus made up less than 3% of usage, significantly falling behind the base iPhone 16 at 5.9% and the Pro and Pro Max versions, which claimed 34% and 56% respectively.

During the corresponding period of 2026, the shares of the base iPhone 17 and Pro Max remained consistent compared to their iPhone 16 equivalents. In contrast, the iPhone Air experienced a significant upsurge, reaching 6.8% of usage—nearly threefold that of the Plus model. This increase seems to be at the cost of the 17 Pro, which saw its share drop from 34.9% to 30.6%.

The iPhone Air’s performance positions it near the base iPhone 17, although it is probable that early adopters and tech enthusiasts constitute a substantial segment of Air purchasers, possibly expanding the divide between the Air and the base model over time.

The iPhone Air’s achievements are noteworthy, especially in light of Apple’s earlier efforts to establish a distinct fourth model with the Mini and Plus, which ultimately did not meet expectations. The Air appears to have effectively established a niche in the market.

Regionally, demand for the iPhone Air exhibits considerable variance. While the percentages noted pertain specifically to the U.S. market, the Air has secured higher shares in other nations, such as 11.2% in South Korea, and has also gained traction in Japan, Sweden, and Singapore.

In a competitive market, the iPhone Air has surpassed the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, recording over three times the usage samples domestically.

From a technological standpoint, the iPhone Air is equipped with Apple’s C1X modem, representing a significant upgrade over the original C1. The Air’s download rates on 5G are comparable to those attained by Qualcomm modems in the iPhone 17 Pro models, while still falling slightly short in upload speeds. For additional details, further charts and data can be accessed on Ookla’s blog.

In summary, the iPhone Air’s achievements in sales and technology underscore its success as a model that resonates with consumers, signaling a positive progression for Apple in the competitive smartphone market.

### The Future of Apple: Potential Successor to Tim Cook

Although Tim Cook, Apple’s present CEO, is not anticipated to retire in the near future, discussions about his successor have grown more intense. John Ternus, the head of Apple’s hardware division, has surfaced as the primary contender to succeed Cook when he eventually steps down.

#### Mixed Signals on Tim Cook’s Retirement

In the past year, there have been varying signals concerning the timeline for Cook’s retirement. Initially, reports indicated that there were no immediate intentions for a change in leadership, suggesting that Cook could hold onto his position for an extended period. However, as Cook neared his 65th birthday, speculation surrounding his successor intensified. By November, Ternus was recognized as the leading choice, though contrasting reports appeared regarding the timing of a possible leadership shift.

Recently, Cook indicated a desire to remain in his role for the foreseeable future, although he did not dismiss the option of moving into a chairman position.

#### John Ternus: The Likely Successor

A recent profile from Bloomberg underscores Ternus as the preferred successor, referencing both internal and external indications of his growing stature within the organization. Ternus notably represented the launch of the MacBook Neo, a significant new offering for Apple, marking a change in the company’s public representation.

Internally, Ternus’s influence has notably increased. He has assumed responsibility for various sectors, such as hardware engineering, product design, and product testing. His management approach reportedly mirrors Cook’s, emphasizing risk management and strategic decision-making.

Ternus has also played a role in groundbreaking projects, including a confidential team developing advanced robotics for FaceTime calls. His involvement in product marketing and environmental sustainability efforts further highlights his significance within Apple.

#### Conclusion

While Tim Cook’s retirement may not be on the horizon, the foundation for a leadership transition seems to be in place, with John Ternus set as a robust candidate for succession. As Apple continues to advance and broaden its product range, the course established by Ternus will be vital in determining the company’s future.

# The Budget-Friendly MacBook Era: An Overview of Apple’s Newest Products

In the age of Apple Silicon, MacBooks are more affordable than ever. The launch of the M1 and M2 processors has greatly decreased prices, enabling customers to acquire high-quality laptops at attractive costs. For example, you can now purchase a [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/4rRKcPU) featuring 512GB of storage and 16GB of RAM for $1099 straight from Apple, a setup that would have been priced at $1599 only a few years back. Additionally, the new [MacBook Neo](https://amzn.to/3Przulx) has lowered the starting price for Apple’s laptop offerings even further.

Despite these price cuts, discerning shoppers can still uncover many bargains if they invest time in their search.

## MacBook Air

Prior to the debut of the [MacBook Neo](https://amzn.to/3Przulx), the [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/4rRKcPU) served as the entry-level model in Apple’s laptop lineup. While the arrival of the Neo has slightly diminished its appeal, the MacBook Air continues to be an outstanding option for those desiring a quality laptop without extravagant amenities.

Notable features of the MacBook Air encompass MagSafe charging, a P3 color screen, Center Stage for the camera, and extended battery performance. It is offered in a 15-inch version, unlike the MacBook Neo, which is limited to a 13-inch variety.

Current promotions on the MacBook Air range include:

– M4 MacBook Air 13-inch: 256GB storage, 16GB memory – [**$899 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4uMgFcT) ($100 off)
– M4 MacBook Air 15-inch: 256GB storage, 16GB memory – [**$949 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/40O4gHJ) ($250 off!)
– M5 MacBook Air 13-inch: 512GB storage, 16GB memory – [**$1049 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4rRKcPU) ($50 off)
– M5 MacBook Air 15-inch: 512GB storage, 16GB memory – [**$1249 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/3PU50bW) ($50 off)

These reductions render the MacBook Air a compelling selection, particularly with the significant savings on the previous generation M4 15-inch model.

## MacBook Neo

The [MacBook Neo](https://amzn.to/3Przulx) marks Apple’s inaugural budget-friendly MacBook, available for only $599. Though it presents some compromises relative to the MacBook Air, it still provides remarkable value for its cost. The construction quality, display clarity, and overall macOS experience remain excellent, making it a reliable choice for cost-conscious buyers.

The MacBook Neo is equipped with a slower A18 Pro chip, fewer ports, and 8GB of RAM, yet these sacrifices are justifiable considering the price. It comes in lively colors such as [Citrus](https://amzn.to/3Przulx), [Blush](https://amzn.to/4d3NAn2), and [Indigo](https://amzn.to/3Phq3VU). Although there are no retail discounts currently, students can enjoy [**$100 off from Apple**](https://www.apple.com/us-edu/store).

## MacBook Pro

At the pinnacle of Apple’s laptop selection sits the [MacBook Pro](https://amzn.to/40Nf1u2), which showcases the highest performance and features. Nevertheless, a major redesign is reportedly on the horizon, featuring OLED displays, touch screens, and slimmer designs, anticipated to launch later this year with the M6 Pro and M6 Max chips.

For those thinking of making a purchase now, the entry model with the M5 chip remains a superb choice, along with the M5 Pro and M5 Max, which continue to offer outstanding performance.

### Current Offers on MacBook Pro

**14-inch MacBook Pro:**
– MacBook Pro with M5: 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory – [**$1799 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/40Nf1u2) ($200 off!)
– MacBook Pro with M4 Pro: 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory – [**$1799 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4lHF92O) ($200 off!)
– MacBook Pro with M5 Pro: 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory – [**$2149 on Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4bqmtkR) ($50 off)