Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

9to5Mac Daily Update: December 8, 2025 – Apple Chip Leader Considers Leaving in Light of iPhone Rumors

### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple Updates

In the dynamic realm of technology, staying informed with current news is vital, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily offers a straightforward way to get up to speed on the major stories concerning Apple and its ecosystem. This daily podcast caters to listeners who wish to remain updated without having to browse through numerous articles.

#### What is 9to5Mac Daily?

9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that provides a summary of the most important Apple-related news each weekday. Hosted by experienced tech journalists, the podcast encompasses a broad array of subjects, including product announcements, software enhancements, and market trends. Each episode is crafted to be brief and insightful, making it simple for listeners to stay informed.

#### Where to Listen

Listeners can find 9to5Mac Daily on a variety of platforms, allowing you to listen in wherever you may be. The podcast is available on:

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#### Subscription Benefits

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– Ad-free versions of every episode
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Subscribing directly contributes to the podcast and guarantees that you receive the newest episodes as soon as they are available.

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Apple Significantly Enhances Fitness+ Service with AI Integration

Apple has revealed that its Fitness+ digital workout platform will extend its presence to over two dozen new locations on December 15, greatly enhancing its international footprint. This growth encompasses nations like Chile, Hong Kong, India, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Taiwan, while Japan is set to join the offerings in early 2026.

To improve accessibility, Apple plans to launch digitally dubbed versions of workouts and meditations in Spanish and German, with Japanese dubbing anticipated in the future. This feature employs a synthesized voice inspired by the actual voices of Fitness+ trainers, enabling users to choose their desired audio language during workouts. New dubbed episodes will be available weekly, alongside the original English versions.

The service is also introducing K-Pop as a music genre for workouts, addressing varied musical tastes. Jay Blahnik, Apple’s VP of Fitness Technologies, highlighted the smooth integration of Fitness+ across Apple devices, offering users real-time metrics and encouragement to maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Despite the expansion, there are indications that the future of Fitness+ is under evaluation at Apple amid organizational changes. In the U.S., Fitness+ is available for $9.99 monthly or $79.99 annually, with Family Sharing options. It is also part of the Apple One Premiere subscription, which combines several Apple services.

Fitness+ is optimized for use with an Apple Watch, enabling users to monitor personal metrics during workouts, although it can also be accessed on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV 4K. Users can also stream content via AirPlay to compatible devices. For further information, the complete announcement can be found in Apple’s official newsroom.

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iPhone 18 Leak Suggests Face ID Will Shift to Under-Display Configuration Next Year

**Apple’s iPhone 18 Line: The Arrival of Under-Display Face ID**

As the design details for next year’s flagship iPhones are nearing completion, recent leaks indicate that Apple is prepared to launch under-display Face ID technology within the iPhone 18 series. This news has been backed by a post from leaker Smart Pikachu on Weibo, reinforcing earlier speculations about this cutting-edge feature.

### Micro-Transparent Glass Panels

Per the leak, Apple intends to realize under-display Face ID by using “micro-transparent glass panels.” This evolution signifies a notable change in the incorporation of Face ID technology into the device, potentially enabling a more cohesive design devoid of a visible notch or cutout.

While the leak does not clarify which models will include this technology, it is commonly thought that the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable variant will feature under-display Face ID. Nonetheless, it is still unclear whether the standard iPhone 18 or the awaited iPhone Air 2 will also gain this enhancement.

### Implications for Design

The embedding of Face ID technology beneath the display could contribute to a reduction in the size of the Dynamic Island, a feature that has been suggested previously. This alteration would not only augment the visual appeal of the devices but also enhance the overall user experience by optimizing screen space.

### Expected Model Launch Timeline

Reports suggest that the iPhone 18 series will initially comprise three models: the premium iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable option. The standard iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 are anticipated to follow several months later, likely in early 2027. This staggered launch timeline may offer Apple extra time to perfect the materials and technology utilized in the forthcoming models.

### Supply Chain Considerations

The postponement of the base models’ launch could also be a calculated strategy to tackle potential supply issues linked to the new materials necessary for under-display Face ID. By spreading out the rollouts, Apple may enhance the chances of widespread integration of this technology throughout the entire iPhone 18 range.

### Conclusion

The rollout of under-display Face ID in the iPhone 18 series represents a remarkable technological leap for Apple, boosting both functionality and aesthetics. As excitement rises for the next generation of iPhones, consumers and tech aficionados are keen to observe how these advancements will influence the future of mobile devices.

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Apple Manufacturing Academy Launches Complimentary Online Courses

**Apple Manufacturing Academy: Enabling U.S. Businesses via Virtual Training**

Earlier this year, Apple debuted its inaugural Apple Manufacturing Academy in Detroit, focusing on delivering complimentary training in “smart manufacturing” to small and medium businesses throughout the United States. This initiative, created in collaboration with Michigan State University, reflects Apple’s extensive pledge to invest $600 billion in the U.S. economy.

In a recent update, Apple unveiled its first-ever virtual programming as part of the Apple Manufacturing Academy. This new online offering aims to enhance accessibility to advanced manufacturing training for businesses and employees nationwide.

The virtual courses, which are accessible starting today, encompass a range of topics crucial for contemporary manufacturing. These topics include automation, predictive maintenance, quality control optimization, and machine learning with vision. Furthermore, the program offers professional development training in communication and presentation abilities, providing participants with the essential resources needed to excel in today’s competitive environment. This initial batch of online materials marks the first phase of the Apple Manufacturing Academy curriculum, with intentions for ongoing expansion as the program progresses.

Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, Sabih Khan, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “At Apple, we believe in the potential of American ingenuity, and we’re excited to offer additional options to assist small- and medium-sized enterprises nationwide. By transitioning the Apple Manufacturing Academy curriculum online, we’re paving the way for more businesses and workers to acquire advanced expertise, which contributes to U.S. competitiveness and bolsters the growth of advanced manufacturing across the country.”

For those eager to explore the virtual courses, they are available at no cost on the Michigan State University website. This initiative not only marks a major advancement in boosting workforce skills but also highlights Apple’s dedication to nurturing innovation and competitiveness within the manufacturing industry across the United States.

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AirPods Pro 3 Now Offered at Record Low Price, Plus Extra Holiday AirPods Savings Beginning at $80

# AirPods Pro 3: Unmatched Discounts and Features

The AirPods Pro 3 have made a remarkable comeback in the market, now offered at their best price ever of $219.99 on Amazon, reduced from the usual price of $249. This offer matches the lowest price ever previously recorded during Black Friday, presenting a fantastic chance for those in search of top-notch truly wireless earbuds.

## Features and Enhancements

The AirPods Pro 3 showcase numerous upgrades compared to previous versions, including:

– **Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)**: The new model delivers 2x enhanced ANC efficiency, enabling users to fully engage in their audio experience without interruptions from the outside world.
– **Built-in Heart-Rate Sensors**: These sensors enable health monitoring functions, providing capabilities beyond mere audio listening.
– **Improved Fit and Integration**: Users can anticipate a more comfortable design and flawless integration within the Apple ecosystem, enriching the overall user journey.

Thorough testing has verified that these earbuds offer significant advancements in sound quality and comfort, establishing them as a premium choice for audio lovers.

## Current Offers on Other AirPods Models

Alongside the AirPods Pro 3, other models are also seeing notable discounts:

– **AirPods 4**: Currently listed for $80, this model offers an affordable alternative for those who do not need ANC.
– **AirPods 4 with ANC**: Available at $100, this version features noise cancellation for an extra $30, making it a tempting option for users who value sound isolation.
– **AirPods Max**: The high-end over-ear model is marked down by nearly $120, now priced at $429, a rare discount for this premium product.

## Conclusion

The ongoing offers on AirPods and other Apple audio items are remarkable, especially for the AirPods Pro 3, which present advanced features and improvements at a competitive price. Whether you seek budget-friendly options or luxury audio experiences, now is the perfect time to purchase Apple’s audio technology.

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Apple TV Unveils New F1 Streaming Agreement Highlighting Driver Onboard Cameras

**Apple Assumes Command: Transition of F1 Broadcasting in the U.S.**

The end of the 2025 Formula 1 championship signifies a major change in the broadcasting scene for motorsport enthusiasts in the United States. Starting next year, Apple will become the sole broadcaster for F1, concluding ESPN’s lengthy coverage. This change is part of a five-year alliance revealed by Apple, which will see every race streamed via an Apple TV subscription beginning with the 2026 season.

### Novel Streaming Experience

Apple’s entry into F1 broadcasting is set to improve the viewing pleasure for fans. A recent advertisement on social media introduced the new F1 channel within the Apple TV app, highlighting a modern interface designed for straightforward navigation. The inaugural race weekend is planned for March 6-8, 2026, yet fans can anticipate the service to launch earlier, potentially featuring preseason material.

Subscribers to Apple TV will access all Formula 1 offerings at no extra cost. This encompasses not only the Grand Prix races but also practice sessions, qualifying, and sprint races throughout the season. The integration of onboard driver cameras and a Multiview function will allow fans to experience multiple angles during races, a feature previously exclusive to F1.TV.

### Improved Features and Access

Apple’s dedication to enhancing the F1 watching experience goes beyond simple race coverage. The platform is anticipated to roll out further features and production upgrades in the upcoming months, guaranteeing that fans access the latest technology and content. For those especially devoted to F1, Apple TV subscribers will also be able to sign into the F1.TV website or applications, retaining access to the vast content previously available to F1.TV subscribers without needing a separate subscription.

### Subscription Information

At present, an Apple TV subscription is priced at $12.99 per month or $99 per year. Fans may also choose the Apple One bundle, which provides Apple TV at a reduced rate along with other Apple services, including iCloud storage. This tactical approach not only streamlines access to F1 content but also positions Apple as a prominent player in the sports broadcasting field.

### Conclusion

As the 2025 F1 championship wraps up, the shift to Apple as the exclusive U.S. broadcaster signals a new chapter for motorsport fans. With cutting-edge features and a comprehensive streaming service, Apple seeks to enhance the F1 viewing experience, rendering it more accessible and engaging for fans nationwide. As the 2026 season draws near, excitement mounts for what is expected to be an exhilarating new phase in Formula 1 broadcasting.

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iPadOS 26.2 Poised to Tackle Significant Problems with Apple’s Existing iPad Software

# iPadOS 26.2: A Return to Well-Known Multi-Tasking Features

With the launch of iPadOS 26.2, Apple has introduced notable improvements to the iPad experience, especially for users who depend on multi-tasking capabilities. This update reinstates the cherished Split View feature and brings in a new gesture for Slide Over, enabling users to drag and drop applications straight from the dock, which will automatically adjust without requiring manual resizing.

## The Initial Removal of Slide Over in iPadOS 26

When Apple unveiled iPadOS 26 at WWDC25, it presented a new windowing system that nudged the iPad closer to a Mac-like experience. This update featured resizable app windows and overlapping windows, appealing to advanced users. However, this change came at the cost of the classic multi-tasking system, leaving some users dissatisfied. Many, especially those who favored a straightforward interface, found themselves returning to the use of apps in full-screen mode.

The Slide Over feature, which enabled users to swiftly access secondary applications without interrupting their primary task, was notably missed. Even though Apple tried to reinstate Slide Over functionality in iPadOS 26.1, it required users to interact with traffic light controls to enable the feature, instead of the intuitive drag-and-drop method users were familiar with.

## iPadOS 26.2: Restoring Ease in Multi-Tasking

The launch of iPadOS 26.2 signifies a welcome comeback to the uncomplicated multi-tasking experience that many users valued. This update reaffirms the familiar gestures for launching apps in Split View and Slide Over, streamlining the management of workflows without the intricacies imposed in earlier versions. While the upgraded system still functions within the framework of the revised windowing system, it closely mirrors the capabilities of past iPadOS versions.

For users who found the switch to iPadOS 26 difficult, this update serves as a breath of fresh air. The capability to quickly open apps like Messages or Notes without the cumbersome windowing method revitalizes the iPad’s status as a versatile device for both work and leisure.

Despite the advancements, some features from prior versions, such as stacking multiple apps in Slide Over, have yet to make a comeback. Nonetheless, the overall improvements in iPadOS 26.2 have been well-received by users who appreciate simplicity and efficiency in their iPad experience.

## Conclusion

The updates in iPadOS 26.2 demonstrate Apple’s attentiveness to user feedback, especially concerning the multi-tasking functionalities that are crucial to the iPad’s performance. By reintroducing Split View and simplifying the Slide Over experience, Apple has made significant progress in addressing the needs of both casual and advanced users. As the iPad continues to develop, it remains a robust tool for productivity and creativity, now featuring a more user-friendly approach to multi-tasking.

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Indie App Highlight: ‘Vector’ – An Intelligent and Resourceful Spotlight Substitute for Mac

### Indie App Spotlight: Vector – A Robust Alternative to Spotlight

Welcome to the Indie App Spotlight, a weekly series where we showcase the newest innovations in the indie app scene. This week, our attention is on **Vector**, a powerful application crafted to improve your Mac experience by offering a fast and effective substitute for Spotlight.

#### Key Features of Vector

Vector emphasizes speed, privacy, and smooth integration, allowing users to swiftly locate what they are searching for. In contrast to Spotlight, which frequently encounters accuracy issues, Vector assures that when you input an app name and press enter, you will get the precise result you desire.

Here are some of the prominent features that render Vector a compelling option:

– **Semantic Search for Messages and Files**: Utilizing an on-device model tailored for Apple Silicon, Vector harnesses the Neural Engine to provide precise search outcomes for messages and files. You can search using keywords or broad phrases, simplifying the process of finding pertinent texts and documents.

– **Clipboard Manager**: Effortlessly keep track of your copied items.

– **Emoji Picker**: Quickly access and embed emojis into your messages and documents.

– **Weather and Calendar Widgets**: Stay updated on approaching meetings and weather conditions at a glance.

– **Wikipedia Search**: Conveniently access information from Wikipedia without leaving the app.

– **Maps Integration**: Retrieve directions and location data directly from your search outcomes.

Additionally, Vector incorporates a calculator and currency conversion feature, all reachable from a handy search bar positioned in the bottom right corner of your Mac, which can be adjusted as necessary.

#### Getting Vector

Vector is available for all Apple Silicon Macs operating on macOS Tahoe. You can acquire it on

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Report: Johny Srouji Assesses Possible Exit from Apple for New Career Prospects

**Apple’s Leadership Changes: The Possible Exit of Johny Srouji**

As per a recent Bloomberg report, Johny Srouji, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies, is seriously considering leaving the organization. Srouji is well-known for his crucial contribution to the development of Apple Silicon, which has revolutionized the hardware landscape of the company. Should he choose to depart, it is expected that he will seek opportunities elsewhere.

In recent years, Apple has achieved considerable progress with its Apple Silicon project. This encompasses the successful transition of the Mac lineup to Apple Silicon, along with the development of proprietary cellular modems and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chips, highlighted by the release of the C1 and N1 chips in various products this year. These accomplishments are primarily credited to Srouji’s guidance and foresight.

The Bloomberg report indicates that Srouji has informed CEO Tim Cook of his serious contemplation of leaving, with plans to join another organization if he ultimately makes that decision. Importantly, Srouji is not aiming for retirement; instead, he is looking for a new professional path.

To retain him, Apple has reportedly put forward generous compensation packages and greater responsibilities. Consideration is being given to elevating him to Chief Technology Officer, which would establish him as one of the most powerful executives at Apple. Nevertheless, Srouji has voiced a desire not to operate beneath a different CEO, emphasizing his allegiance to Cook.

If Srouji does depart, he would mark the fifth prominent executive to leave Apple within a short timeframe. Other significant exits include design lead Alan Dye, AI head John Giannandrea, general counsel Kate Adams, and environment/policy VP Lisa Jackson, all of whom have recently announced their transitions. This series of executive changes appears to be part of a larger restructuring at Apple, likely in preparation for Tim Cook’s eventual retirement.

Furthermore, the report implies that additional senior executives, such as retail chief Dierdre O’Brien and marketing SVP Greg Joswiak, may also consider retirement soon, given their extensive tenures of 35-40 years with the company.

As Apple goes through this transitional phase, the potential departure of Johny Srouji could have profound effects on the company’s future in hardware innovation and technological leadership.

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Apple Unveils Integrated Recovery Intelligence in macOS 26 to Improve Work Productivity

**Comprehending Recovery Assistant in macOS 26: A Transformative Tool for IT Management**

Within the sphere of enterprise IT, overseeing Apple devices has consistently presented distinct challenges, especially regarding system stability. Although macOS is famous for its dependability, software update complications can sometimes hinder operations. With the launch of macOS 26, Apple has made a noteworthy progress in tackling these issues via the Recovery Assistant—a built-in tool intended to automatically diagnose and resolve boot problems.

### What does Recovery Assistant do?

Recovery Assistant is a function that activates when a Mac cannot boot correctly. Rather than requiring users to enter recovery mode and troubleshoot manually, this tool streamlines the process by automatically identifying the issue. It connects to Apple’s servers to fetch the most up-to-date recovery information, assesses the macOS system, and endeavors to fix the problem without requiring extensive user engagement.

### Advantages for IT Teams

For companies with remote workers, Recovery Assistant signifies a crucial leap forward in managing Macs, resonating with the zero-touch deployment principle. While hardware repairs will always demand physical action, issues related to software can now be handled more effectively. This innovation lessens the requirement for users to go to an Apple Store or wait for IT to send replacement devices, thus reducing downtime.

From an IT standpoint, the ramifications of Recovery Assistant are substantial. It boosts the assurance of support teams, knowing that devices hold the capacity to rectify themselves from software troubles. This is exceptionally advantageous in settings where users are scattered across different locations, as it conserves time, shipping costs, and alleviates employee downtime.

### Functionality

When Recovery Assistant is activated, it methodically hunts for known software problems hindering the Mac from starting. If it detects an issue, it tries to remedy it automatically. Once finished, the Mac either restarts successfully or provides the user with straightforward instructions for next steps, such as reinstalling macOS or fixing the startup disk.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to point out that certain network setups, including captive portals and 802.1X authentication, are not compatible with Recovery Assistant. In situations when users are traveling and depending on hotel Wi-Fi, they may need to connect to an iPhone to resolve issues.

### Progressing Towards Effortless IT Management

Apple has invested years into refining the management and deployment procedures for Macs within businesses. With features such as Declarative Device Management and Managed Apple Accounts, the introduction of Recovery Assistant further lightens the load on IT departments. The main objective is to establish a support experience that reduces the necessity for help desk tickets, ensuring that only hardware repairs interrupt employee efficiency.

In summary, Recovery Assistant in macOS 26 marks a considerable progression for IT management, offering a strong solution for software-related challenges. By allowing Macs to self-correct, Apple is not only enhancing user experience but also enabling IT teams to oversee devices more efficiently, ultimately enhancing operational productivity in the workplace.

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