Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple Confirms Ongoing Dedication to China in Meeting with Ministry of Commerce

### Apple Commits to Long-Term Development in China

In a recent discussion with Li Chenggang, China’s International Trade Negotiator and Vice Minister of Commerce, Apple Chief Operating Officer Sabih Khan underscored the firm’s dedication to sustained development and investment in China. This declaration follows a series of assurances from Apple leaders about their commitment to the Chinese market, especially considering the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics and the company’s initiatives to diversify its supply chain.

#### Background

Earlier this year, Apple CEO Tim Cook traveled to China, where he reassured Chinese officials of Apple’s continued commitment to investing in the area. His statements coincided with a resurgence in iPhone sales in China, emphasizing the significance of the Chinese market for Apple’s overarching business strategy.

#### Recent Developments

During his conversation with Chinese officials, Sabih Khan reaffirmed Apple’s enduring relationship with its Chinese partners. Per a report from the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, Khan remarked that Apple appreciates the capabilities and potential of China’s supply chain. He outlined the firm’s intentions to keep boosting investments across various sectors, such as supply chain development, research and development, and social welfare projects within China. Khan stressed an emphasis on intelligence, sustainability, and integration to realize shared benefits and win-win scenarios.

#### Economic Impact

In the previous fiscal quarter, Greater China represented 14% of Apple’s overall revenue, highlighting the area’s importance to the company’s financial stability. Despite Apple’s ongoing endeavors to diversify its production, particularly for devices aimed at the U.S. market, China continues to be a crucial center for manufacturing and assembly.

Apple’s reaffirmation of its commitment to China embodies a strategic choice to sustain robust connections with one of its largest markets while navigating the intricacies of international trade affairs. As the company persists in investing in the region, it intends to cultivate a collaborative setting that advantages both Apple and its Chinese partners.

### Conclusion

Apple’s ongoing investments and commitment to China indicate its awareness of the country’s essential role in its global operations. As the company adjusts to evolving market conditions and geopolitical obstacles, its emphasis on long-term development in China is likely to remain an integral part of its strategy moving ahead.

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New Functionality in iOS 26 Reminders Application Takes Cues from Calendar

Apple’s Reminders application has undergone noteworthy improvements, especially with the launch of time zone support in iOS 26. This feature is particularly advantageous for those traveling, as it facilitates better task management across varying time zones.

### Reminders Introduces Time Zone Features in iOS 26

With the holiday season on the horizon, the necessity for efficient task management rises. The newly added time zone support in the Reminders app meets this demand by providing two essential functionalities:

1. **Specific Time Zone Assignment**: Users now have the option to specify a time zone for each reminder.
2. **Default Time Zone Selection**: Users can select a default time zone applicable to all reminders.

This enhancement is inspired by the Apple Calendar app, which has consistently offered extensive time zone features.

#### How to Access Time Zone Settings

In iOS 26, users can access the updated time zone settings through a few methods:

– **Per-Reminder Time Zone**: During the creation of a new reminder, users will see a “Time Zone” option below the time setting. This enables changes on a reminder-specific basis.

– **Overall Time Zone Preference**: For frequent travelers, a global time zone preference can be modified in the Settings app. Go to Settings > Apps > Reminders, and look for the Time Zone menu to change the default location-based setting.

Once the ‘Set Manually’ option is enabled, a time zone icon will show at the top of the Reminders app interface, allowing for quick visibility and adjustments of the default time zone without returning to the Settings.

### Conclusion

The time zone functionalities in iOS 26 considerably improve the Reminders app’s usability, making it an essential tool for anyone traveling, whether for leisure or business. Users can now handle their tasks with increased accuracy, ensuring they remain organized regardless of their whereabouts.

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WhatsApp Creates Interaction Features Based on Quizzes for Channels

The most recent WhatsApp beta for iOS unveils an exciting new functionality named Channel Quiz, designed to boost engagement within channels. This feature permits channel administrators to create and distribute quizzes to their followers, promoting a more lively user experience.

### Crafted to Introduce a More Interactive Element to Channels

As reported by WABetaInfo, the Channel Quiz feature allows admins to create questions and offer multiple answer choices, which can also include images for each option. This versatility supports a broad array of content types, from visual tests to educational queries. In contrast to standard polls, quizzes necessitate that admins identify one answer as the correct one prior to publication, ensuring that the interaction focuses on knowledge rather than personal belief. This straightforwardness aids participants in grasping the purpose of the quiz, as they can quickly determine if their response is accurate.

When users choose the right answer, they are celebrated with a confetti animation, introducing a playful aspect to the experience. Admins gain insights into participant involvement, as they can analyze a summary of answers. Nonetheless, there are privacy measures in place: if participants are not among the admin’s contacts, their involvement is visible but with restricted information. Depending on privacy preferences, only a profile image may be shown, while personal information such as phone numbers and names remain confidential, ensuring user privacy while still offering useful participation metrics.

The introduction of the quiz feature on the WhatsApp beta for iOS follows a comparable launch on the Android beta, indicating that a broader release could be on the horizon.

This new functionality is anticipated to greatly enhance user interaction within WhatsApp channels, rendering engagements more informative and enjoyable for users.

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Apple Alerts Staff Regarding Potential Risks of Departing the U.S. Amidst Return Delays

### Visa Travel Alerts for Apple Staff: Grasping the Present Situation

According to *Business Insider*, a legal firm representing Apple has issued a precautionary message to certain employees with visas concerning international travel. This notice underscores the likelihood of prolonged and unpredictable delays upon re-entering the United States, leading several tech firms, including Microsoft and Google, to advise employees against traveling abroad.

#### The Caution from Apple’s Legal Team

A memorandum from Fragomen, the law firm advising Apple, cautioned employees lacking a current H-1B visa stamp to avoid trips outside the country. The memorandum highlighted the dangers linked to international travel, stating, “In light of the latest updates and the chance of unpredictable, prolonged delays upon returning to the U.S., we strongly advise that employees without a valid H-1B visa stamp refrain from international travel at this time.” Employees were also urged to seek guidance from Apple Immigration and Fragomen if travel cannot be sidestepped.

#### Visa Processing Hold-Ups

The urgency surrounding this advisory arises from substantial delays in visa processing, worsened by a recently implemented social media screening requirement. In the fiscal year 2024, Apple submitted 3,880 H-1B visa applications, illustrating the company’s dependence on global talent. However, these submissions are experiencing processing delays of up to 12 months, with countless appointments at U.S. embassies around the globe being deferred.

The new requirement stipulates that H-1B visa candidates, along with their dependents and various visa categories, must reveal all social media usernames used in the last five years on the DS-160 visa application form. Furthermore, applicants are required to make their social media profiles public, enabling consular officers to examine their online activities.

#### Worldwide Effect of Delays

The delays are not confined to one area; American consulates and embassies worldwide are facing significant backlogs in standard visa appointments. Nations such as Ireland and Vietnam have indicated considerable delays, impacting many visa holders and their travel capabilities.

#### Final Thoughts

The recommendations from Apple and other tech companies highlight the intricacies and difficulties confronted by visa holders in the current immigration environment. As employees deal with these unpredictable circumstances, it remains essential for them to stay informed and engaged with their company’s immigration support to minimize risks linked to international travel.

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Zens USB-C Pro 3 Cable: Charge Your MacBook and Complete Apple Setup at the Same Time

### Streamlining Travel Charging for Apple Users

When journeying with several Apple devices like a Mac, iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, it can quickly become a hassle to manage chargers. Conventional multi-device chargers often miss the Mac, requiring additional gear such as a laptop brick, MagSafe stand, separate Apple Watch charger, and cables for AirPods. This can result in a disorganized packing scenario.

#### Creative Solution: Zens USB-C Pro 3 Cable

Zens has come up with a solution through their USB-C Pro 3 cable, crafted to simplify the charging experience for Apple users. This cable enables you to charge a MacBook while concurrently charging other devices wirelessly. By utilizing a single high-watt USB-C brick alongside this cable, you can keep all your Apple devices powered during your travels or even while at your desk.

#### Operational Mechanism

The Zens cable redefines the charging arrangement by treating the Mac as the central unit. By attaching the USB-C end to your Mac charger, the cable regulates the power distribution. It supplies up to 140 watts to a MacBook Pro/Air or iPad, while also incorporating two magnetic charging spots along the cable. One spot serves as a Qi2 pad that offers up to 15 watts for your iPhone or AirPods, and the other is an Apple Watch puck that provides 5 watts, enabling fast charging for newer models.

With the Qi2 standard, the iPhone easily snaps into position, assuring a secure connection without the need for exact alignment. The cable remains flat, and the robust magnets ensure it remains connected even in a hectic environment, making it an optimal choice for travel or office settings.

#### General Assessment

The design of the Zens USB-C Pro 3 cable is stylish and functional. It skillfully daisy-chains the charging process, presenting itself as a versatile multi-device charger. Even if you don’t require charging for your Mac, it remains efficient for other devices. The cable is lightweight, folds neatly, and prevents snags in your bag, tackling common issues encountered with traditional multi-device charging stations.

One slight downside is that you cannot simultaneously charge an iPhone and AirPods, but this is an acceptable compromise for many users who seldom need to charge both at once.

#### Final Thoughts

The Zens USB-C Pro 3 cable serves as a practical answer for individuals wanting to simplify their travel charging setup. It replaces the standard Mac charging cable while offering inline charging for an iPhone and an Apple Watch. This minimalist approach allows travelers to reduce their gear to just one charging brick and this cable, ensuring all devices stay powered without the inconvenience of multiple cables.

For anyone who travels often, this cable is a valuable investment, delivering an effortless charging experience without the mess. The Zens USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable Pro 3 is available for purchase from [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/product/hsb82zm/a/zens-usb-c-to-usb-c-charging-cable-pro-3?fnode=7a6560db8171550fc732993a9a731b432fa14ad8be5e52f13ab435a1fccef9c4887736334bccce0ed51d870521cd0e2bad27cffdb537724cf8fd9e7b965c0b9b6d00df6e9e45afd03c364431f3bbcad442156a8b5346b75f513de116f87ab2c0) or directly from

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Italian Antitrust Authority Levies Penalty on Apple for Breaching App Tracking Transparency Rules

Italy’s competition regulatory body, Autorità Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (AGCM), has imposed a fine of € 98.6 million ($ 116 million) on Apple due to its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature. This article delves into the context surrounding the issue, specifics of the penalty, and the consequences for Apple.

### A Brief Overview

Since the launch of App Tracking Transparency in April 2021, Apple has encountered backlash from numerous companies and media organizations concerning the execution of this feature. Detractors claim that although ATT enforces stringent restrictions on third-party applications regarding data gathering and tracking, Apple’s own services are not subject to equivalent limitations.

Apple justifies its stance by asserting that it has structured its offerings—such as Siri, Maps, FaceTime, and iMessage—in a manner that prevents the association of user data across these platforms. Nevertheless, the company has been under the spotlight from various antitrust probes, notably regarding whether ATT yields anticompetitive outcomes.

Recently, Apple has made moves to counter antitrust apprehensions in several nations, including Germany, France, and Brazil, where it has encountered similar probes and penalties.

### The Italian Penalty

The AGCM’s penalty against Apple arises from what it refers to as the “exploitation of a dominant market position.” The authority carried out a thorough investigation in cooperation with the European Commission and other national competition bodies, along with the Italian Data Protection Authority.

The investigation found that the ATT policy is limiting from a competition-law viewpoint. In particular, third-party app developers are required to get explicit consent for data collection and linking for advertising purposes via Apple’s ATT prompt. However, this prompt does not meet the requirements of privacy legislation, compelling developers to apply a secondary consent request for the same objectives.

The AGCM indicated that Apple’s ATT policies are imposed unilaterally and adversely affect the interests of its business partners. The authority described the feature as excessive compared to the data protection aims Apple professes to follow.

While recognizing that Apple might have valid reasons for instituting privacy protections, the AGCM criticized the policies as overly burdensome for developers and disproportionate to the privacy protection intentions.

Additionally, the present execution of ATT mandates that developers seek consent twice for identical purposes, as the ATT prompt fails to satisfy the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) consent stipulations, requiring developers to incorporate additional consent methods.

Apple has expressed its plan to contest the fine. For more information, the complete decision is available on the AGCM’s official site.

### Conclusion

The penalty levied by Italy’s AGCM underscores the persistent conflicts between privacy initiatives and competition in the technology sector. As Apple tackles these issues, the ramifications of the ATT feature and its implementation will remain under careful examination by regulators and developers alike.

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Tim Cook’s Major Product Initiative Anticipated to Unfold Next Year

### Apple Glasses: A Crucial Milestone for Tim Cook’s Vision of AR Wearables

In the coming year, Apple plans to introduce a remarkable array of more than 20 new products, with the much-awaited Apple Glasses, potentially branded as ‘Apple Vision,’ taking the spotlight. Anticipated for reveal in late 2026, these glasses are seen as a pivotal step towards Tim Cook’s enduring aspiration of crafting genuine augmented reality (AR) wearables.

As per insights from Bloomberg, although the Apple Glasses might not launch until 2027, Apple frequently previews products in new categories several months prior to their official launch. This strategy was previously observed with the Apple Watch and Apple Vision Pro, offering consumers a sneak peek into what the future technology holds.

When the Apple Glasses are finally revealed, they will shed light on a device deemed critically important to CEO Tim Cook. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has noted Cook’s steadfast dedication to creating lightweight AR glasses designed for all-day wear, projecting data and visuals onto the physical environment. This goal has emerged as a major focus for Cook, who aims to spearhead the AR technology sector ahead of competitors like Meta.

It’s crucial to understand that the first iteration of the Apple Glasses will not provide full AR functionalities. Instead, it will emphasize integration with Siri, AI features, and function as a companion to the iPhone, akin to how the Apple Watch is utilized today. Nevertheless, this initial offering will establish the groundwork for future models set to integrate authentic augmented reality capabilities.

The Apple Vision Pro has already paved the way for Apple’s vision of AR software, referred to as “spatial computing.” Despite not achieving noteworthy sales success, visionOS has showcased impressive functionalities and advantages. The introduction of the Apple Glasses will clarify both the software and hardware designs for forthcoming AR eyewear.

As Apple refines the initial Glasses design, it will create a basis for the ultimate AR version. While the timeline for the technology associated with true AR glasses remains unclear, the anticipated advancements by the end of next year will provide significant insights into Tim Cook’s most prioritized product.

In summation, the excitement around the Apple Glasses underscores the company’s dedication to pioneering innovation in augmented reality. As consumers eagerly await the formal announcement, enthusiasm grows for what might become a groundbreaking product in the field of wearable technology.

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Ongoing Promotions: Level Lock+ Matter Apple Home Key Lock, 2025 Orange Alpine Loop, M4 Pro MacBook Pro Savings Up to $700, and Additional Offers

### Ongoing Promotions on Apple Products: An In-Depth Look

With the holiday season on the horizon, notable price cuts on Apple products have surfaced, making it an ideal moment for shoppers to think about upgrading their devices or buying gifts. This article showcases some of the top offers currently accessible, such as the M4 MacBook Air, AirPods Pro 3, and various accessories.

#### M4 MacBook Air Offers

Amazon has brought back its Black Friday pricing for the M4 MacBook Air series, presenting a **$250 discount** on all models. This includes configurations in both 13-inch and 15-inch sizes and a variety of colors. The M4 MacBook Air is celebrated for its elegant design, robust performance, and remarkable battery longevity, rendering it a favored selection among students and professionals.

#### AirPods Pro 3 Discount

Alongside the MacBook offers, the **AirPods Pro 3** are on sale for **$199** on Amazon. These wireless earbuds boast active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and a snug fit, making them a perfect gift for music enthusiasts or anyone who regularly uses their devices for calls and media.

#### Level Lock+ (Matter) Smart Lock

One of the standout offers is the **Level Lock+ (Matter) Smart Lock** with Apple Home Key, currently available for **$249**, reduced from $329. This smart lock integrates flawlessly with Apple HomeKit, allowing users to secure and access their doors using their iPhone or Apple Watch. The installation is simple, needing just a screwdriver, and it accommodates most standard American doors.

#### Apple Watch Ultra Bands

For those interested in enhancing their Apple Watch, there are new low prices on two variants of the **Apple Watch Ultra bands**: the orange Alpine Loop and the black Trail Loop. These bands are crafted for resilience and comfort, making them perfect for a variety of activities.

#### Refurbished 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro

For users in search of a more high-powered device, a refurbished **16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro** is now **$700 off**, bringing the total to **$1,799**. This model boasts 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, delivering substantial capability for demanding tasks. Even though it is a refurbished unit, it provides considerable savings compared to the new model, which is priced around $2,499.

#### Apple USB-C Magic Mouse

Finally, the **Apple USB-C Magic Mouse** is priced at **$68**, reflecting a 15% discount. This mouse is recognized for its streamlined design and multi-touch surface, allowing users to execute gestures and navigate smoothly. Despite varying opinions on its ergonomics, it continues to be a sought-after choice among Mac users.

### Summary

With these notable discounts across a range of Apple products, now represents a timely opportunity to seize the holiday sales. Whether you are looking for a new laptop, smart home gadget, or accessories, these offers deliver excellent value and elevate the overall Apple experience.

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Apple Set to Launch More Than 20 New Items in the Coming Year: A Sneak Peek at What’s in Store

The upcoming year is fast approaching, and Apple has an extensive lineup of products slated for 2026. Speculations suggest that as many as 25 new items will be released; here’s a summary of what’s on Apple’s agenda.

## Winter and Spring 2026: Affordable MacBook, iPhone 17e, Home devices, and more

Apple is expected to unveil a significantly larger array of products early in the year than usual. Notable mentions include fresh Apple Home devices, a new economical MacBook, the iPhone 17e, and additional offerings.

– **iPhone 17e**: A19 chip, Center Stage front-facing camera, Dynamic Island
– **Base iPad**: Enhanced chip, probably featuring Apple Intelligence support
– **M4 iPad Air**: Spec upgrades to M4 chip
– **AirTag 2**: New Ultra Wideband chip with superior range, security enhancements
– **MacBook**: A-series iPhone chip, vibrant colors, low price
– **M5 MacBook Air**: Same form factor, but upgraded to M5 chip and likely new color options
– **MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and Max**: 14-inch and 16-inch models with premium M5 chips
– **Apple Studio Display 2**: 120Hz ProMotion support, HDR compatibility
– **Second Mac Display**: Two Mac displays on the way, possibly a new Pro Display XDR
– **Apple TV 4K with A17 Pro**: Improved chip for Apple Intelligence support, possibly with a built-in camera
– **HomePod Touch**: Completely new product with a 7-inch touch screen, focused on AI Siri
– **HomePod mini 2**: Upgraded chip, enhanced audio quality, and more

## Summer 2026: iOS 27 is the main attraction, but new Macs are anticipated as well

The summer typically sees fewer product launches from Apple. Instead, the spotlight is on new software. At WWDC in June, Apple will introduce iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, and more. However, two new Macs are expected to be revealed around mid-2026.

– **M5 Mac mini**: M5 and M5 Pro options with few other alterations
– **M5 Mac Studio**: M5 Max option plus an entirely new M5 Ultra chip

## Fall 2026: iPhone 18 Pro, foldable design, revamped MacBook Pro, and additional products

The most significant Apple launches of the year occur in the fall, highlighted by new iPhones. This year includes a wholly new foldable iPhone debut, along with more offerings.

– **iPhone 18 Pro**: A20 Pro chip, under-display Face ID for a more compact Dynamic Island, C2 modem
– **iPhone 18 Pro Max**: Larger battery, adaptable aperture camera, and more
– **iPhone Fold / Ultra**: Book-style wide format, titanium finish, crease-free screen
– **AirPods Pro 3 with cameras**: Integrated cameras for powering AI features such as visual intelligence
– **Apple Watch Series 12**: New S-class chip, possibly with more health sensors and Touch ID
– **Apple Watch Ultra 4**: Potential new health sensors, Touch ID, and additional features
– **iPad mini with OLED**: New A20 Pro chip, OLED display
– **M6 MacBook Pro**: Major redesign, slimmer and lighter, OLED touch-display

## TBD 2026: Apple Glasses, new Home accessories

These products are anticipated to arrive in 2026, though the exact timing remains uncertain. Regarding Apple Glasses, rumors suggest that Apple could reveal the product this year, but the actual release may not occur until 2027.

## Summary of Apple’s new products for 2026

Overall, it appears to be shaping up to be another significant year for Apple product introductions. In addition to the usual new iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch variants, there will also be a variety of Home products, new Mac displays, and potentially our first look at Apple Glasses.

Ultimately, 25 new products are rumored to be on the horizon for the upcoming year. While not every item listed may launch, 2026 is sure to offer Apple users plenty of excitement.

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Key Display Advancement for iPhone Fold Allegedly Doubtful, Based on Leak

### Apple Continues to Explore Solutions for ‘Crease-Free’ Display on iPhone Fold

Next autumn, Apple is anticipated to unveil its first foldable iPhone, sparking considerable excitement among technology aficionados. Recent leaks suggest that a vital aspect of the iPhone Fold—the crease-free display—is still in the works.

As per Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station, Apple intends to create a “crease-free visual experience” and is presently experimenting with ultra-thin flexible glass (UFG) in various thicknesses. Despite encountering technical hurdles, Apple has the opportunity to enhance the design prior to the expected launch in September of next year.

Furthermore, two Chinese manufacturers are delving into UFG technology and carrying out similar extensive folding tests. Should these companies successfully manage their supply chain technology, they might introduce rival products next year.

Reports indicate that Apple has postponed the introduction of a foldable iPhone due to the requirement for a display that aligns with its stringent standards. The company has been prudent, particularly as rivals like Samsung have been providing foldable devices for several years. The quest for a crease-free display underscores Apple’s dedication to quality.

While Digital Chat Station remains hopeful about the design of the display, the ongoing modifications could affect production capacity, possibly resulting in limited availability at launch.

As the release date draws nearer, the significance of a crease-free display is generating discussion among consumers. Would this characteristic sway your decision to buy the iPhone Fold?

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