Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

**Collaboration Between Apple and Intel: A Transformative Phase in Chip Manufacturing**

In a noteworthy advancement within the technology sector, Apple and Intel have formally joined forces to create chips, as reported by *The Wall Street Journal*. This union signifies a crucial juncture for both organizations, particularly as they manage the intricacies of semiconductor production and supply chain operations.

### Production Phase Begins

Prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shares that the initial production of iPhone processors and various chips has already kicked off at Intel. Kuo, who has been keenly observing the dynamics between Apple and Intel, had earlier suggested that the two firms were contemplating a refreshed partnership. His most recent findings indicate that Apple has started manufacturing low-end and legacy processors for iPhones, iPads, and Macs utilizing Intel’s 18A-P series technology, which features Foveros packaging.

### Production Insights

Kuo’s findings highlight several important details regarding the production and strategic trajectory of this collaboration:

1. **Types of Processors**: Apple is concentrating on low-end and legacy processors, implying that Intel is responsible for producing chips for older generations of iPhones, iPads, and Macs that still see market demand.

2. **Production Ratio**: The composition of the orders is around 80% for iPhones, correlating with Apple’s distribution of sales across its product lines.

3. **Technology Evolution**: The production roadmap for the 18A-P series reveals a stepwise strategy: initial testing is anticipated in 2026, followed by increased production in 2027, ongoing expansion through 2028, and a forecasted decline by 2029.

4. **Assessment of Cutting-edge Technologies**: Apple is also considering Intel’s advanced-node technologies, which could pave the way for further partnership opportunities down the line.

### Strategic Consequences

The alliance with Intel is viewed as a strategic initiative by Apple to broaden its chip supply network and minimize dependence on TSMC, its main chip fabricator. Nonetheless, Kuo points out that TSMC is projected to retain a significant share, maintaining over 90% of Apple’s supply even as Intel scales up its production efforts.

This partnership may afford Apple enhanced flexibility in its manufacturing capabilities, enabling the company to address risks linked to supply chain interruptions and production bottlenecks. As the demand for chips continues to rise, establishing multiple suppliers could prove essential for sustaining production efficiency and fulfilling consumer demands.

### Final Thoughts

The collaboration between Apple and Intel signifies a meaningful change in the semiconductor sphere, with both companies set to gain from this partnership. As production initiates, the tech industry will be closely monitoring the evolution of this relationship and its implications for Apple’s product range and overarching market strategy.

# Unveiling the Overlooked Features of Apple Wallet

For many years, the Apple Wallet app has stood out as one of Apple’s most undervalued offerings. While numerous users mostly connect it with Apple Pay, its capabilities go well beyond that, providing a complete solution for handling payments, access, and identity. Here are five functionalities of Apple Wallet that can greatly improve your everyday routine.

## 1. Apple Cash and iMessage Payment

A distinguishing feature of Apple Wallet is the ability to generate a digital Apple Cash card at no cost, given that you possess an Apple ID. This card operates like a debit card, permitting you to load funds from your bank and utilize it through Apple Pay. A major benefit is the peer-to-peer payment feature via iMessage, which can serve as a substitute for other payment applications like Venmo and Cash App. The Apple Cash card is FDIC-insured, ensuring security, although it is not usable for ATM withdrawals.

## 2. Tap to Pay on iPhone

The Tap to Pay feature enables users to execute payments directly from one iPhone to another without requiring extra hardware. This is especially handy for small purchases and removes the middleman, providing a fee-free solution. To access this feature, just open the Wallet app, select your Apple Cash card, and follow the instructions to send money by tapping your device against the recipient’s phone.

## 3. Express Transit Cards

For those who often utilize public transportation, the Express Transit feature is revolutionary. It permits users to choose a specific card for transit payments, facilitating the transaction process. Instead of scrambling with your phone to pick a card, you can simply tap your device on the terminal, skipping the need for Face ID or extra steps. Setting this up is straightforward and significantly shortens wait times at crowded stations.

## 4. Physical Credit Card Information in Apple Wallet

In the past, Apple Wallet displayed only encrypted virtual card numbers, making it challenging to access physical card details when necessary. However, a recent update enables users to safely store their actual credit card information within the app. This feature is particularly advantageous for individuals who prefer to keep their physical cards at home, as it allows for manual transactions if Apple Pay is not accessible.

## 5. Digital Car and Home Keys

Apple Wallet has advanced into a digital keychain, enabling users to keep their car and home keys digitally. With compatible smart locks and vehicles, users can unlock their doors simply by tapping their iPhone. This feature boosts convenience and security, as it removes the necessity of carrying physical keys entirely.

## Final Thoughts

Apple Wallet has become an integral part of the Apple ecosystem, transforming from a basic payment application to an all-encompassing digital wallet. Its features improve everyday convenience, simplifying the management of payments, access, and identity. With continuous updates and enhancements, Apple Wallet is set to redefine our interactions with both financial and physical settings.

For those aiming to optimize their credit card rewards, tools like Cardpointers can assist in organizing and maximizing credit points and usage. Have you integrated Apple Wallet into your daily routine? Share your experiences and insights below.

Apple and OpenAI have forged a collaboration to incorporate ChatGPT with Siri as a feature of iOS 18, expected to be released in 2024. Nonetheless, recent sources reveal that OpenAI is unhappy with the partnership and is considering legal measures against Apple. As reported by Bloomberg, OpenAI’s legal representatives are assessing different avenues, such as notifying Apple of a potential breach of contract without pursuing a lawsuit immediately.

OpenAI had substantial hopes for the collaboration, confident that embedding ChatGPT within Apple’s ecosystem would draw more subscribers to their service. They envisioned a more profound integration across Apple applications and a prominent role within Siri. However, an unnamed executive from OpenAI conveyed disappointment, stating that while OpenAI upheld its product commitments, Apple has failed to honor its commitments.

A notable feature of the integration was the option for users to subscribe to ChatGPT via the iPhone’s Settings app, with OpenAI estimating this could lead to considerable revenue. Regrettably, this forecast has not come to fruition, resulting in discontent within the organization.

The executive remarked that Apple has not offered clarity on the product specifics, necessitating that OpenAI depend on them without guaranteed success. The collaboration has not been financially rewarding for OpenAI, as Apple does not compensate for the use of ChatGPT technology, only receiving a portion of the subscription income.

As Apple gears up for its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), where a new version of Siri powered by Google Gemini is anticipated, OpenAI’s discontent is evident. Reports indicate that iOS 27 will facilitate integration with additional AI models, which has not triggered legal proceedings from OpenAI, since the original partnership was not exclusive.

OpenAI’s hesitation to partner with Apple on new models originates from a feeling of betrayal in their initial association. The executive pointed out Apple’s market leverage, enabling them to set the terms, causing OpenAI to be cautious about future engagement.

In light of these frictions, OpenAI is also developing its hardware and has hired several former Apple engineers, including prominent individuals like Jony Ive. This has reportedly led to irritation among Apple’s executives.

At present, ChatGPT is incorporated into iOS, acting as a backup for Siri and offering functionalities like image generation. OpenAI is hoping to amicably settle its differences with Apple, with no definitive decisions made regarding litigation.

**Anthropic’s Mythos AI Model and Its Contribution to Discovering macOS Security Weaknesses**

Anthropic’s Mythos AI model has attracted attention for its robust abilities and the confidentiality surrounding its creation, largely because of the possible dangers it poses to software infrastructures around the world. Recent reports suggest that Mythos has played a crucial role in revealing security weaknesses within macOS, leading to an inquiry by Apple.

### Researchers Employ Mythos to Detect Security Weaknesses

As reported by Robert McMillan of *The Wall Street Journal*, cybersecurity researchers have uncovered an innovative approach to circumventing Apple’s sophisticated security protocols, utilizing techniques recognized during assessments of an early version of the Mythos AI software in April. The research team from Calif, a security firm based in Palo Alto, stated that they created software that connects two vulnerabilities along with various methods to manipulate the Mac’s memory, ultimately allowing access to secured portions of the device.

This attack is categorized as a privilege escalation exploit, which, if coupled with additional malicious activities, could permit a hacker to seize control of the compromised computer. Apple is currently evaluating the findings shared by Calif to confirm their accuracy. An Apple representative reiterated the company’s dedication to security, asserting, “Security is our foremost priority, and we regard reports of possible vulnerabilities with utmost seriousness.”

### Comprehensive Findings and Future Consequences

Calif assembled an extensive 55-page report outlining their discoveries, which they presented directly to Apple in Cupertino. Thai Dong, the CEO of Calif, remarked that the successful execution of the attack necessitated not just Mythos but also the vast cybersecurity knowledge of Calif’s team. The particulars of the vulnerabilities found will be revealed by Calif once Apple resolves the core issues. Dong expressed hope that the bugs would be addressed promptly.

### Conclusion

The partnership between Anthropic’s Mythos AI model and the cybersecurity proficiency of companies like Calif highlights the shifting landscape of cybersecurity threats and protections. As Apple probes these vulnerabilities, the situation emphasizes the significant role of advanced AI in both recognizing and possibly exploiting security flaws in commonly utilized operating systems.

### Current Promotions on Apple Merchandise: An In-Depth Summary

As of now, Amazon is featuring a variety of notable reductions on different Apple items, making this a prime moment for shoppers to think about upgrading their gadgets. This article outlines some of the top offers available, including the freshly launched MacBook Neo, the M5 MacBook Pro, iPhone 16e, and more.

#### MacBook Neo Offers

Amazon has rolled out attractive pricing on the MacBook Neo, with multiple configurations available at lowered rates:

– **MacBook Neo Citrus 256GB**: $590 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Citrus 512GB**: $690 (Delivery by Friday)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 256GB**: $590 (Delivery by Friday)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 512GB**: $690 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 256GB**: $590 (Delivery by tomorrow)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 512GB**: $690 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 256GB**: $590 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 512GB**: $690 (Delivery by tomorrow)

These prices indicate a $10 reduction on each variant, making them a compelling choice for anyone seeking a new laptop.

#### M5 MacBook Pro

The cheapest M5 MacBook Pro is now up for grabs at $1,499, reflecting a $300 discount from its launch price. This model boasts a 14-inch display, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. This price matches the lowest documented on Amazon, significantly less than its initial catalog price of $1,799.

Moreover, there are price cuts on additional M5 Pro models, including:

– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro**: $249 off
– **48GB M5 Pro MacBook Pro**: $300 off

These offers present fantastic value for anyone aiming to invest in high-performance laptops.

#### iPhone 16e Discount

For those in search of a cost-effective smartphone, Amazon has a promotion on the **iPhone 16e**, starting at **$449**. This refurbished model features 256GB of storage and is sold directly by Amazon, guaranteeing quality and dependability. The iPhone 16e is a great option for casual users or as a secondary phone.

#### iPad Pro Magic Keyboard

Apple’s **13-inch iPad Pro Magic Keyboard** is also discounted, with a 25% reduction lowering the price to **$262.50**. This keyboard is compatible with both M4 and M5 iPad Pro models and is recognized for its stylish design and functionality, making it a valuable investment for iPad owners.

#### Apple Watch Series 11

The **Apple Watch Series 11** is experiencing a price cut as well, with the 46mm GPS + Cell model priced at **$399**, a decrease of $130. This offer stands as one of the best prices noted for this model, representing a fantastic opportunity for those looking to buy a smartwatch.

#### Accessories and Charging Offers

In addition to the aforementioned items, Amazon is offering the **Apple iPhone Air MagSafe Battery** at a notable discount, now available for **$59.99**, nearly 40% off its standard price. This accessory is engineered to enhance the iPhone Air’s sleek look while extending battery life.

### Conclusion

With these considerable discounts on various Apple merchandise, now is an ideal time for consumers to contemplate making a purchase. Whether you’re searching for a new laptop, smartphone, tablet accessory, or smartwatch, these deals offer exceptional value and quality from a trusted vendor.

# iPhone 18 Pro: New Features That May Encourage Upgrades

The iPhone 18 Pro is scheduled for release this fall, featuring a range of thrilling attributes that may persuade users to upgrade. Here are three significant enhancements that are stirring excitement among Apple fans.

## 1. Enhanced Camera Features

Mark Gurman reports that the iPhone 18 Pro will incorporate “some of the most substantial camera hardware enhancements in the history of the lineup.” Expected improvements consist of:

– **Adjustable Aperture Main Camera**: This capability will permit users to modify the depth of field, accommodating different photography techniques. Users can opt for a shallow depth of field to isolate subjects, a medium depth for recognizable backgrounds, or a deep depth for capturing everything in focus.

– **Telephoto Camera with a Broader Aperture**: This upgrade will enhance low-light performance, particularly with the iPhone’s 4x and 8x zoom functionalities.

– **Revamped Camera Control Button**: This alteration aims to enhance user experience by making it more intuitive.

## 2. Unmatched Battery Life

The iPhone 18 Pro is projected to offer the greatest battery life ever seen in an iPhone, due to numerous enhancements:

– **Bigger Battery**: A physically larger battery will deliver increased power.

– **A20 Pro Chip**: This newly developed chip, constructed on a 2nm process, is optimized for improved efficiency.

– **C2 Modem**: Apple’s latest modem is expected to be more energy-efficient than its Qualcomm predecessor.

These upgrades collectively promise to significantly extend battery life, making the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max the most long-lasting models to date.

## 3. Design Enhancements, Featuring New Premium Color

Although the iPhone 18 Pro will likely maintain a similar look to its predecessor, it will include several noteworthy design updates:

– **New Premium Color**: Following the success of the Cosmic Orange finish, a new color is anticipated, possibly a mix of burgundy, coffee, and deep purple, or referred to as deep red or dark cherry.

– **Color-Matched Back Glass**: The back glass will be designed to closely align with the aluminum frame, creating a unified appearance.

– **Reduced Dynamic Island Size**: The Dynamic Island is anticipated to decrease by approximately 35%, offering more usable screen real estate.

These design modifications, alongside the expected camera and battery enhancements, position the iPhone 18 Pro as an attractive upgrade option for Apple users.

**Harrison Ford Confirms Production for Shrinking Season 4 Kicks Off Soon**

The beloved Apple TV series *Shrinking* has just wrapped its third season, but viewers can anticipate more episodes sooner than anticipated. Harrison Ford, one of the lead actors, declared that production for the fourth season is set to begin next week, hinting at a possible premiere in early 2027.

### The Evolution of Television Production

In the age of streaming services, the wait for new seasons can often feel extended compared to traditional broadcast television, where programs usually returned at the same time each year with more episodes. Streaming platforms frequently offer fewer episodes per season, typically between 6 and 10, which can prolong the duration between seasons.

Nevertheless, *Shrinking* appears to be breaking this pattern. Ford indicated that the new season will feature 12 episodes, and considering the show’s minimal dependence on special effects, the post-production phase is anticipated to be quite swift. This efficiency boosts the chances of an early 2027 debut.

### Comparisons with Other Apple TV Series

Apple TV has demonstrated a commitment to shortening the intervals between seasons for its key shows. Another series, *Your Friends & Neighbors*, successfully returned for a new season within a year. This approach may suggest that Apple executives are eager to sustain viewer interest by reducing wait times for popular series.

Conversely, other programs like *Severance* have faced more extended breaks, with its second season debuting in early 2025, a year following *Shrinking*’s third season, and a third season not anticipated until mid-to-late 2027.

### Conclusion

As excitement grows for *Shrinking* Season 4, fans can find solace in knowing that fresh episodes are on the horizon. With Harrison Ford’s confirmation of filming commencing soon, the series is poised to continue its captivating storytelling and character arcs, likely returning to screens in early 2027.

For those looking to catch up on *Shrinking*, Apple TV is available for $12.99 a month, with opportunities for savings through the Apple One bundle.

### Leading Three US Carrier Rivals Join Forces for Satellite-Enhanced Cellular Coverage

The leading three mobile service carriers in the United States—AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile—are joining efforts to address the challenge of coverage gaps through a new collaborative initiative that will employ satellite technology. This project is designed to improve cellular services, especially in rural and underserved regions, although detailed information regarding the initiative is still limited.

AT&T has indicated that this joint venture (JV) will “accelerate American leadership in next-generation direct-to-device (D2D) communications” by utilizing satellite technology to fill current coverage voids. The partnership is projected to increase customer options by integrating Internet Protocol (IP) and terrestrial spectrum, thereby establishing industry standards that promote a more seamless experience for both customers and satellite service providers.

The main objective of this initiative is to enhance connectivity in rural and less-served areas of the nation. However, it should be noted that the three companies have not yet reached a finalized agreement to collaborate. The press release highlights that the joint venture is still contingent on the negotiation of definitive agreements and the satisfaction of typical closing conditions.

Furthermore, the announcement specifies that existing agreements between carriers and satellites will not be impacted by this new partnership. For additional information, the full announcement can be viewed [here](https://about.att.com/story/2026/new-joint-venture.html).

In related news, T-Mobile has made progress in satellite connectivity by collaborating with SpaceX to provide Starlink-powered T-Satellite service, which is also accessible to AT&T and Verizon customers. Starlink offers direct-to-cell service, broadening the options for customers in search of dependable connectivity.

Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently authorized a notable $40 billion sale of EchoStar spectrum to AT&T and SpaceX, further cementing the importance of satellite technology in improving cellular coverage throughout the United States.

### The iPhone 17 Pro: Pioneering Smartphone Charging Speeds

Recent evaluations by CNET across 33 contemporary smartphones have shown that the iPhone 17 Pro emerges as the fastest charging device overall, integrating both wired and wireless charging speeds. This evaluation underscores Apple’s ongoing innovation and accuracy in the realm of smartphone technology.

#### Charging Speed Rankings

In the detailed analysis, the iPhone 17 Pro attained the top average charging speed when assessing both wired and wireless charging durations. This recognition places it ahead of rivals from prominent brands such as Samsung, Google, and Motorola. The testing approach involved measuring how much battery each phone could secure in a 30-minute window from a low charge state of 10%.

#### Wired Charging Performance

Regarding wired charging, the iPhone 17 Pro captured the second place. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra took the lead, achieving an impressive 76% charge in just 30 minutes. The iPhone 17 Pro, along with Motorola’s Moto G Stylus (2025), both realized a 74% enhancement in battery capacity within the same timeframe. Other significant mentions include the OnePlus 15 at 72% and the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, each at 69%.

#### Wireless Charging Superiority

Apple’s lead is even more evident in the wireless charging sector, where the iPhone 17 Pro garnered the distinction of the fastest charging smartphone. In the wireless charging trial, it accumulated 55% charge in 30 minutes. Following closely was the iPhone 17 Pro Max with 53%, and the iPhone 17 at 49%. The iPhone Air also made it into the rankings with 47%, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra completed the top five with 39%.

The effectiveness of Apple’s MagSafe technology is considered a key contributor to its exceptional wireless charging capabilities. MagSafe ensures that the devices are accurately aligned with the charging coils, optimizing the charging process. While competitors have the option to use the same Qi2 technology, Apple’s execution seems to retain a unique edge.

#### Optimal Charging Setup

To obtain the best charging outcomes with the iPhone 17 Pro, users are recommended to use a power adapter rated at 30W or higher, paired with a MagSafe charger that facilitates fast charging functionalities. This combination guarantees that users can fully leverage the device’s rapid charging attributes.

### Conclusion

The acknowledgment of the iPhone 17 Pro as the fastest charging smartphone highlights Apple’s dedication to improving user experience through cutting-edge technology. With its remarkable performance in both wired and wireless charging domains, the iPhone 17 Pro establishes a lofty benchmark for competitors in the smartphone landscape.

### Apple’s Liquid Glass Design in iOS 26: A Distinguished Acknowledgment

Apple has recently been celebrated with several awards for its groundbreaking Liquid Glass design showcased in iOS 26. This acknowledgment emphasizes the company’s dedication to excellence in user experience and design aesthetics.

#### Liquid Glass Celebrated at ADC Awards

The Art Directors Club (ADC) Annual Awards has honored iOS 26’s Liquid Glass design with four prestigious awards, including a Gold Cube in the Interactive / UX / UI category. This recognition showcases the outstanding artistry and craftsmanship that Apple has incorporated into its mobile operating system.

In addition to the Gold Cube, Apple garnered a Silver Cube for Experiential Design / Digital Experiences, alongside Bronze Cubes for Experiential Design / Consumer Experience and Innovation. These awards reflect the diverse approach Apple has embraced in enhancing user interaction and experience through its design philosophy.

#### About the Art Directors Club

The ADC boasts a rich legacy, being the longest continuously running industry award event globally, founded in 1921. It honors excellence across a range of design fields, including advertising, digital media, product design, and beyond. The ADC’s commitment to acknowledging exceptional artistry and craftsmanship has established it as a prestigious platform for designers around the globe.

#### Future of Liquid Glass

While iOS 27 is anticipated to bring some updates to the Liquid Glass design, significant changes are not expected. This stability indicates that Apple is confident in the course it has taken with its design overhaul, which has garnered positive responses from both users and industry professionals.

As Apple continues to innovate, the Liquid Glass design serves as a testament to the company’s commitment to crafting visually impressive and user-friendly interfaces. The recognition from the ADC further strengthens Apple’s standing as a leader in design excellence.

#### Conclusion

With the honors received for the Liquid Glass design, Apple not only enhances its reputation for superior design but also paves the way for future advancements in its iOS platform. As the design progresses, it will be fascinating to observe how Apple continues to expand the limits of user experience and aesthetic allure.