AllYouCanTech

Summary of Latest iPhone 17 Case Materials and Apple Watch Chip Revelations from Ask9to5Mac

# TechWoven Cases and Apple Updates: An In-Depth Exploration

In the most recent episode of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast, hosts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller explore various thrilling advancements related to Apple, including the much-anticipated TechWoven cases for the iPhone 17 series, the company’s retreat from the MLB streaming collaboration, and details from the iOS 26 beta 7, which signals an imminent launch for Apple’s forthcoming major product cycle. They also interact with listener queries in their recurring segment, Ask9to5Mac.

## TechWoven Cases for iPhone 17

Reports suggest that Apple is poised to unveil a fresh range of cases termed TechWoven for the soon-to-be-released iPhone 17. These cases are anticipated to utilize cutting-edge materials and designs that improve both appearance and functionality. The TechWoven cases aim to offer users a combination of style and protection, addressing the increasing demand for customized and sturdy accessories in the smartphone arena.

## Exit from MLB Streaming Partnership

In a noteworthy change, Apple has chosen to withdraw from its streaming collaboration with Major League Baseball (MLB). This decision brings up concerns about the future of Apple’s sports streaming approach and its consequences for subscribers who valued MLB programming on Apple TV+. The choice underscores a wider trend of tech firms reevaluating their commitments to live sports broadcasting.

## Insights from iOS 26 Beta 7

The rollout of iOS 26 beta 7 signifies that Apple is approaching the introduction of its next major product cycle. This beta release showcases numerous new features and enhancements that users can look forward to in the final version. As developers and beta testers assess the latest changes, excitement grows for the official launch, which is anticipated to align with the presentation of new hardware.

## Listener Engagement: Ask9to5Mac

In this episode, Benjamin and Chance also tackle a variety of listener questions, offering insights and perspectives on an array of topics related to Apple products and services. This engaging segment cultivates a sense of community among listeners and allows them to directly interact with the hosts.

## Happy Hour Plus Subscription

For those wishing to support the podcast while gaining access to premium content, the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription is an option. Subscribers benefit from ad-free episodes, exclusive pre- and post-show content, and additional bonus episodes for a monthly cost of $5 or an annual charge of $50. This subscription framework enhances the listening experience and delivers further insights into the tech landscape.

## Feedback and Community Interaction

Listeners are invited to send in their questions and feedback through various channels, including Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads. They can also email their queries to [email protected], promoting an interactive dialogue between the hosts and their audience.

## Conclusion

As Apple persists in its innovation and evolution, the conversations surrounding its products and strategies remain vibrant and intriguing. The launch of TechWoven cases, the exit from the MLB streaming collaboration, and the advancements in iOS 26 beta 7 emphasize the company’s ongoing dedication to enhancing user experience and adapting to market dynamics. For more insights and updates, listeners can tune into the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast and join in the discussion.

“Severance Cast Participates in Exciting Trivia Game Show – View Here”

### Severance Trivia Show Showcases Series Cast and Creators

If you’re finding the wait for [Severance season 3](https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/18/severance-season-3-heres-everything-we-know-so-far/) to be challenging, Apple has just rolled out an ideal way to alleviate your anticipation. A [new video episode](https://youtu.be/iH9L6bBEwgI?si=wgMAbQVBx9_hXRKV) of the Severance podcast is now live, featuring the cast engaging in a trivia competition in a game show called “Tournament of Fripperies.”

The [official Severance podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-severance-podcast-with-ben-stiller-adam-scott/id1788381175?itscg=30200&itsct=podcast_box&ls=1&mttnsubad=1788381175&at=1000l3cvR) has traditionally been an audio-centric program. Led by Ben Stiller and main actor Adam Scott, the podcast began as a means to summarize Severance episodes but has managed to persist beyond season 2’s conclusion. Recent installments have included guest spots from other creators and actors who delve into discussions about Severance with Stiller and Scott. Nonetheless, [the newest episode this week](https://youtu.be/iH9L6bBEwgI?si=wgMAbQVBx9_hXRKV) may very well be the most enjoyable so far.

Here’s the YouTube video description:

> On August 16, 2025, Ben Stiller and Adam Scott gathered Severance’s Emmy-nominated cast and creators for a live recording of The Severance Podcast. They invited the talented actor and comedian Patton Oswalt to take on the role of host for the first-ever Tournament of Fripperies, a Severance-themed quiz show that challenges contestants’ understanding of Severance and one another. The star-studded lineup features Britt Lower, John Turturro, Zach Cherry, Patricia Arquette, Tramell Tillman, and Severance creator Dan Erickson as the Tournament Judge. Only one can be crowned the Frippery Champion and earn the title of a true child of Kier. Who will come out on top?

What were your standout moments from the Severance game show? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple TV+ is [available for $12.99 per month](https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.4000?itscg=30200&itsct=tv%5C_box%5C_link&at=1000l3cvR) and boasts popular TV shows and films such as [Ted Lasso](https://tv.apple.com/show/ted-lasso/umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy&at=1000l3cvR), [Severance](https://tv.apple.com/show/severance/umc.cmc.1srk2goyh2q2zdxcx605w8vtx?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.1srk2goyh2q2zdxcx605w8vtx&at=1000l3cvR), [The Morning Show](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-morning-show/umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m&at=1000l3cvR), [Silo](https://tv.apple.com/show/silo/umc.cmc.3yksgc857px0k0rqe5zd4jice?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.3yksgc857px0k0rqe5zd4jice&at=1000l3cvR), and

Public Beta Launch of Updated Firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4

### iOS 26 Features for AirPods Receive Another Firmware Update

Apple is deploying a fresh public beta firmware update for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, aligning with the imminent iOS 26 software release. This update brings a variety of new features tailored for models featuring the H2 chip.

The newest AirPods firmware is designated by build number **8A5343a**, which corresponds to the developer firmware made available earlier this week. Although users are unable to manually trigger an update, Apple supplies a series of instructions to facilitate automatic firmware updates in the background.

#### Steps to Update AirPods Firmware

1. Make sure your AirPods are within Bluetooth reach of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac connected to Wi-Fi.
2. Place your AirPods in their charging case and shut the lid.
3. Plug the charging case into a power outlet using a charging cable.
4. Keep the lid closed for a minimum of 30 minutes to enable the firmware to update.
5. Open the lid of the charging case to reconnect your AirPods to your device.
6. Verify the firmware version to confirm the update.

For those interested in participating in the AirPods public beta program, registration can be done at

Apple One Elevates Worth with New Capabilities and Forthcoming Enhancements

# The Expanding Influence of Bundles in the Streaming Age

Bundling is rapidly emerging as one of the major success tales for streaming platforms, and Apple appears to be aware of this, making Apple One even more enticing with its recent price hike for Apple TV+ and the upcoming update to Apple Music with iOS 26.

Introduced in 2019, Apple One has seen bundling evolve into an even more effective tactic. Amazon Prime serves as a classic illustration, but numerous streaming services have recently demonstrated the strategy’s effectiveness as well. Disney offers its bundle featuring Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN. HBO Max achieved significant success by collaborating with Disney. Now, ESPN and FOX are also combining their new streaming services.

Since its debut, Apple One has consistently improved, but two recent moves indicate Apple’s increased commitment to expanding its bundle subscriber base:

1. The Apple TV+ price increase
2. Apple Music’s significant update in iOS 26

## Apple TV+ Price Hike Does Not Affect Apple One

This year, Apple TV+ has truly come into its own, earning the moniker of ‘the new HBO’ with a consistent lineup of high-quality TV shows. It also boasts its most impressive fall content lineup ever right around the corner. Consequently, it’s not surprising that Apple chose this moment to raise the price for TV+.

Apple TV+ is now priced at $12.99/month in the US and several international markets. You can save by opting for an annual subscription. Alternatively, you can subscribe to Apple One, which, despite the TV+ price hike, maintains its current pricing.

With Apple TV+ now at $12.99, the $19.99 price tag for Apple One becomes immediately more appealing. For just $7 more, you also gain access to Apple Music, iCloud+, and Apple Arcade. Apple TV+ and Apple Music stand as the main attractions of every Apple One plan, serving as the primary incentives for subscribers.

With Apple TV+ effectively discounted via Apple One, along with significant enhancements coming to Apple Music in iOS 26, the bundle becomes even more enticing.

## Apple Music in iOS 26 Receives Its Largest Update in Years

Apple Music continually evolves in subtle ways, such as introducing new live radio stations or features like Replay All Time and Sound Therapy playlists. However, iOS 26 introduces a substantial update for users that enhances the overall experience.

If you’re a Spotify user, these changes alone may not sway you. Nevertheless, the prospective savings from subscribing to Apple One while gaining access to Apple Music, Apple TV+, and more could alter your perspective.

The impact of bundles is not a novel concept, but as more streaming services increasingly succeed with bundling, Apple seems poised to make Apple One more attractive than ever.

Are you currently a subscriber to Apple One? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments.

9to5Mac Daily: August 21, 2025 – News on iOS 18.6.2 and Apple TV+ Price Hike

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving realm of technology, remaining informed about the newest updates is crucial, particularly for Apple aficionados. The **9to5Mac Daily** podcast offers an easy way to stay abreast of the day’s top stories. Accessible on various platforms, including [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), and [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), listeners can conveniently tune in for new episodes throughout the week.

### What You Can Anticipate from 9to5Mac Daily

Every episode of **9to5Mac Daily** includes conversations about the latest Apple news, product launches, software upgrades, and insights into the technology landscape. The podcast aims to keep listeners updated and engaged, providing essential listening for anyone curious about Apple’s offerings.

### Benefits of Subscribing

By subscribing to the podcast, you not only guarantee receipt of the latest episodes promptly upon release but also gain access to unique content. Joining [9to5Mac Daily Plus](https://9to5mac.com/join/) allows subscribers to revel in ad-free listening and additional content, enhancing their overall experience.

### Connect with the Community

Listeners are invited to express their opinions and feedback. You can contact us via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or leave a review on [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) or

New Enhancements and Improvements for FaceTime in iOS 26

# iOS 26: Innovative Enhancements in FaceTime

iOS 26 presents a reimagined FaceTime app, elevating user experience with a novel design, cutting-edge features, and enhanced functionality. Here’s an in-depth look at what’s new in FaceTime.

## Revamped Home Screen

When users open FaceTime, they will see a thoroughly overhauled home screen. The former layout of recent calls and contacts has been substituted with a card-style interface. Each card prominently features contact photos of recent FaceTime users or recommendations for possible calls.

These cards showcase the contact photo, the date of the last call, the call type (audio or video), and a button to start a new call. For contacts with a complete display card set, the presentation is visually striking. If a contact does not have a full set, their photo is shown as a circle. Moreover, if a video message has been received, it will auto-play while scrolling. A green ‘New Call’ button is positioned at the bottom, complemented by filtering tools in the top-right corner.

## Liquid Glass Aesthetic

The newly designed Liquid Glass aesthetic represents a major visual enhancement in FaceTime. Menus and buttons throughout the app embrace this contemporary style, boosting visual attractiveness. During calls, buttons automatically recede, ensuring they do not obstruct the video feed and allowing for a more immersive experience.

## Real-Time Translation

iOS 26 introduces the ingenious Real-Time Translation feature to FaceTime, facilitating live captioning for discussions. Users with an AI-equipped iPhone can access automatically translated captions, letting them listen to the speaker while viewing the translated text on-screen. Initially, this feature is available for one-on-one calls in English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

## Mute Unknown Callers

To address spam calls, iOS 26 offers an option to mute FaceTime calls from unknown callers. This feature can be activated to ensure that incoming calls from unrecognized numbers remain silent and are listed separately within the filters menu.

## Nudity Recognition Warning

Apple enhances its Communication Safety tools with a new nudity recognition feature, primarily targeting child accounts but also accessible for adult accounts as an optional setting. When activated, if nudity is detected during a FaceTime call, the call will freeze, presenting a warning. Users can opt to continue or terminate the call. This feature employs on-device machine learning to analyze content without transmitting any data to Apple.

## Summary

The updates in FaceTime with iOS 26 markedly improve user experience through a contemporary interface, groundbreaking features like Real-Time Translation, and additional safety measures. As Apple further develops its communication tools, users can anticipate more enhancements in forthcoming updates. What extra features would you like to see in FaceTime in the future?

Spotify Unveils Audio Previews and Instant Music Sharing Capabilities for Instagram Stories and Notes

Spotify is elevating how users share their music on Instagram with the launch of two new global features. These enhancements are designed to foster a more engaging and interactive experience for those who love to share their musical preferences with friends.

### Audio Previews in Stories

One of the key features is the addition of audio previews when users share tracks in their Instagram Stories. This implies that when a user posts a song, a brief audio snippet will automatically accompany the post. Friends viewing the Story can listen to this preview instantly and have the choice to tap on the music sticker, which will lead them to the complete track on Spotify. Moreover, tapping the song title will direct users to Instagram’s audio page, where they can discover related Reels or save the track to their Spotify “Liked Songs.”

### Real-time Music Sharing in Notes

Another noteworthy update is the real-time music sharing capability in Instagram Notes. This feature enables Notes to automatically display the currently playing track or the subsequent track within a 30-minute timeframe. Friends can react to these updates or save the song directly to their library. Additionally, Spotify has unveiled a new sharing option that streamlines the posting of any track directly to Notes, improving the connection between the two platforms.

These features not only simplify how users share their music choices but also stimulate interaction among friends, nurturing a community of music enthusiasts.

In conjunction with these updates, Instagram is also introducing a new opportunity for creators to link multiple Reels in a sequence. This adjustment aims to facilitate viewer engagement with related content, enriching the overall user experience on the platform.

As Spotify continues to evolve, it recently revealed a new feature similar to Apple Music’s AutoFix, which is anticipated to debut with iOS 26. This initiative underscores the ongoing rivalry between music streaming services to enhance their integration with social media platforms. Additionally, Spotify has recently raised prices for paid subscribers globally, signaling a shift in its business strategy as it seeks to improve its service offerings.

For further details about these new features from Spotify, you can read the complete announcement

FOX Unveils New Streaming Platform, Augmenting Apple’s TV App Features

**Brand New FOX One Streaming Service Completely Integrates with Apple’s TV App**

The debut of FOX One signifies a major advancement in the streaming arena, particularly for enthusiasts of live sports and news. As one of two significant new streaming platforms launching today, FOX One fills a persistent void in the market, especially for those who have missed FOX content in the age of streaming.

Traditionally, leading networks such as CBS, NBC, and Disney have leveraged streaming through services like Paramount+, Peacock, and Disney+. However, FOX has notably been absent, leaving NFL fans and other viewers who seek live content at a disadvantage. The release of FOX One, available for $19.99 each month, seeks to amend this by delivering an all-inclusive package that features sports, news, and entertainment, with a strong focus on live broadcasts.

A standout aspect of FOX One is its complete integration with Apple’s TV app. This integration enables users to effortlessly browse content, save shows to their watchlist, and enjoy a more unified viewing experience directly from the Apple TV app. This presents a significant benefit for Apple users, as it improves the app’s functionality and offers a centralized hub for accessing various streaming platforms.

Alongside the rollout of FOX One, ESPN has introduced its own streaming service, which also integrates with the Apple TV app. This development further enriches the landscape of supported streaming services, which already encompasses popular platforms such as Disney+, HBO Max, Paramount+, and Peacock. Nonetheless, Netflix remains a prominent outlier, as it persists in prioritizing its own app development and has yet to collaborate with Apple for integration.

As streaming services continue to advance, the introduction of FOX One and its compatibility with the Apple TV app signifies a favorable trend for consumers in search of varied content options. With an increasing focus on live programming and user-friendly access, FOX One is set to become an essential resource for viewers eager to stay connected with their preferred sports and news broadcasts.

AirPods Aid Traveler in Retrieving Stolen Wallet, Operating Like AirTags

### AirPods Assist in Locating Stolen Purse in Italy

Karis McElroy narrated an incredible incident on TikTok regarding how her mother and stepfather became victims of pickpocketing during their visit to Venice, Italy. The couple found themselves surrounded by three individuals on the street, and when they returned to their Airbnb, McElroy’s mother found her backpack had been unzipped. Inside the bag were missing her water bottle, wallet, and purse, which held her passport, credit cards, and cash.

Luckily, her AirPods were also in the bag. In a desperate effort to retrieve the stolen belongings, McElroy’s mother and stepfather activated the ‘Find My Friends’ feature to trace the AirPods’ location. This led them back to the three potential thieves.

While they awaited the arrival of the police, McElroy’s mother confronted the group. Although one suspect escaped with the purse, it was later discarded. With help from law enforcement in both Italy and the United States, the stolen belongings were ultimately returned to an airport liaison office before being reunited with their rightful owner.

### How AirPods Integrate with the Find My Network

Although AirTags are specifically engineered for tracking items, a number of Apple products, including certain AirPods models, can offer similar capabilities via the Find My network. Supported AirPods can emit a Bluetooth signal that nearby Apple devices pick up, sending the location back to the owner’s Find My app. This enables users to track their AirPods even when they aren’t actively connected to an iPhone or iPad.

When the Find My network is enabled, supported AirPods can show up in the Find My app for as long as 24 hours after they were last paired with a device, even if they are out of range. This feature is available for AirPods 3, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, all AirPods Pro versions, and AirPods Max.

While AirPods can aid in recovering misplaced items, AirTags remain the most dependable choice for tracking. Unlike AirPods, AirTags are specifically tailored for this task, featuring a user-replaceable battery, a built-in speaker for locating them, and ultra-wideband precision tracking on compatible iPhones. Moreover, AirTags remain visible in the Find My app for a longer period than the 24-hour timeframe provided by AirPods. However, in cases of a misplaced bag, AirPods can serve as a useful resource, particularly within the initial 24-hour window.

Google Playfully Mocks Apple During the Pixel 10 Launch Event

**Google Pixel 10 Launch Event: A Bold Leap Forward**

The recent Made by Google event revealed the eagerly awaited Pixel 10, demonstrating a significant show of confidence from the tech giant. Led by Jimmy Fallon, the event was infused with humor, mainly aimed at Apple, as Google showcased the fresh features and enhancements of the Pixel 10.

From the very beginning, Google’s confidence was evident. The company adopted a daring stance, openly mocking Apple, which has become a consistent aspect of their marketing approach. Rick Osterloh, Google’s SVP, commenced the event with a nod to “broken promises,” referencing delays in Apple’s AI progress. He underscored that Google’s Gemini AI is a revolutionary tool, claiming it delivers unmatched assistance on smartphones.

Osterloh also reminded attendees that the Pixel first introduced Car Crash Detection back in 2019, well ahead of Apple. This claim was part of a larger narrative that cast Google as a pioneer in the smartphone arena, contrasting with Apple’s more reserved tactics.

The event proceeded with Fallon and SVP Adrienne Lofton conversing about Google’s product array. Lofton made a subtle dig at Apple’s restrictive ecosystem, asserting that Android is “the most open platform that’s built for genuine freedom of choice.” This notion resonated with many in attendance, especially those who prioritize flexibility in their tech selections.

A key highlight was the debut of Pixelsnap, a feature that enables the Pixel 10 series to seamlessly work with Apple’s MagSafe accessories. Lofton confidently expressed that Google embraces “everybody in the game,” implying that they are undeterred in competing directly with Apple. She also tackled the “green bubble” controversy, dismissing it as an outdated topic in the era of RCS (Rich Communication Services), which both platforms now endorse.

Lofton expressed the significance of communication in today’s mobile environment, emphasizing that RCS offers a unified text standard, improving the messaging experience across platforms. Her comments were aimed at reassuring potential switchers from iPhone to Pixel that they would maintain connectivity with friends and family.

The event, while sprinkled with humor and light-hearted digs at Apple, also centered on the remarkable software capabilities of the Pixel 10. The overall vibe was one of enthusiasm and innovation, a refreshing change from the often-overlooked launches of Android devices in the past.

In summary, the Pixel 10 launch event represented a notable occasion for Google, exemplifying a confident and assertive stance in the competitive smartphone landscape. With its combination of humor and innovation, Google is unmistakably positioning itself as a serious contender, eager to disrupt the status quo and transform the user experience in mobile technology.