Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Neon App Declares Comeback After Major Security Incident Impacting Audio Call Revenue

### Neon: The Disputed App Compensating Users for Sharing Audio Recordings

Neon, a mobile app that rewards users for sharing their audio recordings with an AI platform, has recently gained attention owing to its swift increase in popularity and a major security incident. The application asserts it can pay users hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year for permitting their discussions to be employed in training AI chatbots.

#### The Neon Application

Neon has surged in prominence within the App Store, rapidly ascending to become the second most favored social application and the sixth overall. Its primary function lies in recording calls, promising to capture only the user’s voice unless both users are utilizing the app. Nevertheless, doubts surround this assertion, as privacy specialists have expressed alarm regarding potential invasions of recording practices.

As per Neon, when a call is initiated via the app, it records the user’s side unless both participants are Neon users. In circumstances where both are utilizing the app, it captures both sides, as long as one initiates the call through Neon. The company guarantees that its technology sifts out personal details such as names and numbers.

#### The Major Security Incident

Despite its groundbreaking concept, Neon encountered a serious security flaw that revealed sensitive user information. Reports suggested that a vulnerability permitted unauthorized access to phone numbers, call recordings, and transcripts of other users. This incident led Neon to temporarily take the app offline while it remained available for download in the App Store.

The situation deteriorated as investigations uncovered that some users sought to misuse the app by clandestinely recording conversations without the other party’s consent. This sparked considerable ethical and legal issues surrounding privacy and consent.

#### Neon Vows to Come Back

In the wake of the security incident, Neon’s founder, Alex Kiam, reached out to users, reassuring them that their payments would remain unaffected despite the app’s brief suspension. Kiam indicated that Neon would return “soon” and expressed regret over the situation, although he did not offer additional information.

Legal authorities have warned that the app may breach laws in states requiring consent from both parties for audio recordings. Users might encounter both criminal charges and civil lawsuits for unauthorized recordings.

#### Conclusion

Neon’s contentious method of monetizing audio recordings has ignited a discussion regarding privacy, consent, and the ethical ramifications of utilizing personal conversations to train AI systems. As the app gears up for a return, users and legal analysts are closely monitoring to see how Neon tackles these significant concerns and guarantees adherence to privacy regulations.

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How to Protect Yourself from Scams After the Integration of Venmo and PayPal

**Direct Transfers Between Venmo and PayPal: Essential Information**

Beginning in November, users will at last have the ability to execute direct transfers between Venmo and PayPal, a feature that has been eagerly awaited since PayPal’s acquisition of Venmo in 2014. This integration signifies a major advancement in the landscape of digital payment platforms, permitting smooth transactions between both services.

Although this development offers convenience to users, it also brings to light issues concerning privacy and security. Venmo has been criticized previously for its standard privacy settings, which rendered all transactions public. This openness permitted anyone to access transaction information, such as payment dates and associated messages, which Venmo justified as a social aspect.

With the forthcoming integration, there is an increased risk of scams and spam. CNET has pointed out that the capability for PayPal users to locate Venmo users using their phone numbers could enable deceptive practices. Thus, it is vital for users to be mindful of their privacy settings.

Once the integration is implemented, users will be able to modify their privacy settings within the Venmo app. To bolster security, users should go to Settings, choose Privacy, and then adjust the Find Me options to limit who can track them down on PayPal. This modification is crucial to reduce the dangers linked to the new feature.

In conclusion, while the direct transfer function between Venmo and PayPal will improve the user experience, it is important to stay alert regarding privacy settings to safeguard against possible scams. Users are advised to assess and revise their privacy options once the integration launches in November.

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9to5Mac Daily: October 1, 2025 – Extensive Information on M5 iPad Pro Revelations

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple Updates and Insights**

In the rapid-moving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the newest advancements is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily presents a handy way to stay informed on the key stories of the day, offering listeners thoughtful commentary and analysis on Apple-related topics.

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Fresh episodes are produced every weekday, ensuring that listeners get timely news on the latest Apple happenings. By subscribing to the podcast, you can receive new episodes immediately upon release, making it easy to stay updated.

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Apple Vision Air Development Halted Because of Rivalry with Meta’s AI Glasses

Apple has recently executed a major strategic transformation concerning its augmented reality (AR) product lineup. According to Bloomberg, the technology giant has opted to halt plans for a lighter and more budget-friendly version of the Apple Vision Pro headset. Instead, Apple is reallocating its resources to expedite the creation of smart glasses that can rival Meta’s products.

Traditionally, Apple has been developing a lighter model of the Vision Pro, which was anticipated to debut in 2027 at a reduced price. However, the company is now focusing on the advancement of smart glasses, with intentions for several head-mounted devices in development. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has detailed various forthcoming products, including:

– An M5 Apple Vision Pro expected in 2025.
– A second-generation Apple Vision Pro anticipated for the latter half of 2028.
– The first-generation Apple Glasses, scheduled for a Q2 2027 launch.
– Two XT smart glasses expected to begin mass production in 2028.
– A “display accessory,” specifics of which are still limited.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has reportedly prioritized the creation of the first-generation Apple glasses, despite the expected 2027 release. In contrast, Meta has already enjoyed significant success with its smart glasses, selling over 2 million units in partnership with Luxottica and recently unveiling the Meta Ray-Ban Display, its inaugural display-enabled AI glasses.

The choice to set aside the Vision Pro variant is a strategic decision aimed at concentrating on the development of competitive smart glasses. Bloomberg’s report suggests that Apple is working on at least two varieties of smart glasses. The initial model, referred to as N50, will link to an iPhone and will lack its own display. This model is set to be revealed as soon as next year, with a release earmarked for 2027.

Furthermore, Apple is crafting display-powered glasses, which are scheduled for 2028, with a focus on hastening their development. These glasses are expected to utilize voice interaction and artificial intelligence, akin to Meta’s offerings, and will incorporate a new chip, diverse styles, and possible health features.

As Apple shifts its strategy, the technology community is left to speculate whether this alteration in plans is the correct approach in the competitive arena of augmented reality and smart glasses.

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First Teaser Unveiled for Apple TV+ Docuseries Featuring Martin Scorsese

**Mr. Scorsese: An In-Depth Exploration of Martin Scorsese’s Life and Career**

For fans of Martin Scorsese, the excitement is tangible as the docuseries “Mr. Scorsese” gears up for its premiere on October 17 on Apple TV+. Helmed by Rebecca Miller, this five-episode documentary promises an up-close examination of the iconic filmmaker’s life and career, featuring comprehensive interviews with his longtime associates, including Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio.

The docuseries will reveal rare and hitherto unseen footage from behind-the-scenes as well as family archives, offering perspectives on Scorsese’s creative method and personal reflections. The recently unveiled trailer weaves together clips from Scorsese’s vast film catalog, emphasizing memorable moments from classics like “Raging Bull,” “Taxi Driver,” “Goodfellas,” “Casino,” “The Wolf of Wall Street,” “Shutter Island,” “The Departed,” “The Last Temptation of Christ,” “Gangs of New York,” and “Mean Streets.”

“Mr. Scorsese” will first screen at the New York Film Festival prior to its official debut on Apple TV+, generating buzz among fans and film enthusiasts. The series not only honors Scorsese’s influence on cinema but also explores his personal journey, encapsulated in his statement, “I knew I could express myself with movies, but I had to find my own way.”

For those keen to delve into Scorsese’s oeuvre and legacy, “Mr. Scorsese” presents a distinctive chance to gain a deeper understanding of one of the most significant filmmakers in contemporary cinema.

Apple TV+ is accessible for $12.99 a month, offering a wide array of acclaimed shows and films, including “Severance,” “The Studio,” “The Morning Show,” “Shrinking,” and “Silo.”

Seize the opportunity to watch “Mr. Scorsese” and dive into the realm of a cinematic icon.

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The iPhone 17 Pro’s Discreet Enhancement That Could Have Major Consequences

### Vapor Chamber in iPhone 17 Pro: A Method of Future Proofing

When contemplating the acquisition of an iPhone 17 Pro, numerous consumers prioritize battery longevity, camera performance, and aesthetics. Nevertheless, a noteworthy feature that might not garner as much focus is the newly introduced vapor chamber cooling system, which could become essential as technology progresses.

#### Comprehending the Vapor Chamber

The vapor chamber in the iPhone 17 Pro is engineered to improve heat dissipation and overall efficiency. As per Apple, the vapor chamber encloses deionized water within a laser-welded aluminum frame. This groundbreaking design facilitates the efficient transfer of heat produced by the robust A19 Pro chip away from the processor, permitting it to function at elevated performance levels without overheating. Subsequently, the heat is evenly distributed through the forged aluminum unibody, ensuring that the device remains pleasant to hold while delivering remarkable performance.

This cooling technology empowers the iPhone 17 Pro to sustain higher performance levels consistently, even amidst demanding activities. Consequently, it positions the device as more future-ready, especially given the increasing dependence on artificial intelligence (AI) in mobile technology.

#### The Expanding Role of AI in Smartphones

AI is increasingly becoming a fundamental component of smartphone functionality, affecting everything from basic operations to sophisticated features. With every new iOS iteration, Apple continually enhances its AI capabilities, illustrated by iOS 26, which rolled out over 20 new Apple Intelligence features. Two prominent trends have arisen from Apple’s strategy towards AI:

1. **Local Processing**: Apple emphasizes executing AI tasks directly on the device, necessitating substantial processing power.

2. **Improved Daily Activities**: AI is utilized to optimize routine functions, enhancing device capabilities but also raising power demands.

As the workload on the iPhone intensifies due to these AI breakthroughs, the vapor chamber in the iPhone 17 Pro gains increasing importance. It is tailored to manage the heat produced by heavy AI functions, guaranteeing that the device can operate effectively without overheating or lagging.

#### Future Considerations

As an increasing number of features and applications depend on AI, the performance benefits of the iPhone 17 Pro’s vapor chamber may become increasingly evident. Users of earlier models, such as the iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro, have encountered slowdowns during resource-intensive AI tasks. In contrast, the iPhone 17 Pro’s cooling system is anticipated to alleviate these challenges, promoting smoother functionality as AI capabilities develop.

With expected enhancements to Siri and other AI-driven features on the horizon, the need for processing power will undoubtedly grow. Users might discover that devices featuring vapor chambers, like the iPhone 17 Pro, will outperform previous models as these new functionalities are introduced.

#### Conclusion

Although the vapor chamber cooling mechanism may not be the initial attribute that draws consumers to the iPhone 17 Pro, its importance in future-proofing the device should not be underestimated. As AI continues to influence the smartphone environment, the capacity to regulate heat and uphold performance will be crucial. The iPhone 17 Pro distinguishes itself as a model adeptly prepared to meet the demands of future technology, making it an appealing option for those seeking to invest in a device that will retain its relevance for years ahead.

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Judge Determines Section 230 Is Inapplicable, Permitting App Store Gambling Lawsuit to Move Forward

Apple could not persuade a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit that alleges it promotes, hosts, and profits from illegal casino-style apps in the App Store. Here are the details.

### Case Judge Indicates Section 230 Is Not Applicable

In recent years, Apple, Alphabet, and Meta have faced a proposed class action lawsuit claiming they violated various state consumer protection laws by distributing gaming applications (“apps”) that function as social casinos and enable illegal gambling.

The plaintiffs assert that “simulated social casino apps” are equally addictive as actual in-person gambling, and that Apple, Alphabet, and Meta benefit from the “gamblers’ losses, which are gathered and controlled by the Platforms themselves.” Their allegation extends to accusing them of being involved “in a pattern of racketeering activity,” which the companies refute.

Indeed, the companies have turned to Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act, which protects online platforms from liability for third-party content:

> “No provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider.”

Section 230 was designed to foster the early expansion of the internet by shielding online platforms from lawsuits regarding user-generated content, and by permitting them to moderate objectionable material without the risk of liability. However, in recent times, it has emerged as one of the most debated laws in technology, critiqued as a protection that enables large tech firms to avoid accountability for damaging content.

In this instance, as reported by *Reuters*, U.S. District Judge Edward Davila denied the companies’ motion to dismiss the lawsuit based on Section 230:

> “In a 37-page ruling, Davila concluded that Apple, Google, and Meta did not function as ‘publishers’ when handling payments, undermining their claims for Section 230 immunity. He stated that it was irrelevant that the companies offered ‘neutral tools’ to support the apps, and dismissed the notion that the plaintiffs’ failure to term them ‘bookies’ absolved them of liability.”

Judge Davila mentioned that the companies could appeal his ruling, and he did dismiss some of the plaintiffs’ claims. Nevertheless, as it currently stands, the companies will still need to confront the central allegations.

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Vibe Coding App: Convert Your Concepts into SwiftUI Applications Straight on Your iPhone

### Vibe Coding: The Future of App Development with Bitrig

A collective of former Apple staff who helped develop SwiftUI has introduced a groundbreaking iPhone application named Bitrig, which employs a concept termed “vibe coding.” This app enables users to input voice or text commands to generate SwiftUI applications in just seconds, along with the option to distribute these applications via TestFlight. The introduction of vibe coding signifies a major transformation in our coding approach, making it more user-friendly for those without a development background.

#### Understanding Vibe Coding

Vibe coding, a phrase introduced by OpenAI co-founder Andrej Karpathy, signifies a novel method of coding wherein users can concentrate on their visions and ideas rather than the intricacies of programming. This approach utilizes sophisticated language models (LLMs) to interpret user inputs and produce code effortlessly. Although it may not currently empower users to create intricate applications like those of Fortune 500 entities, it provides effective solutions for simpler projects.

#### Bitrig: Simplifying App Creation

Bitrig is crafted to support users who lack a coding background yet possess ideas for straightforward applications. The app permits users to send a limited number of messages each day—five for free users and additional messages for Pro subscribers—to produce app code reflective of their requests. Users can select from predefined templates such as a Tip Calculator, Metronome, or Stock Chart, or they can articulate their individual app concept in simple terms.

Throughout the coding journey, Bitrig offers transparency by showcasing its reasoning, which helps users comprehend how the app formulates the final code. Once the application is created, users have the option to review and amend the code as they see fit.

#### Features and Framework Support

Bitrig accommodates various frameworks, including AVFoundation, ContactsUI, MapKit, PhotosUI, and WidgetKit. For users with compatible devices operating on iOS 26, the app also synchronizes with Apple’s foundational models. Upcoming updates are anticipated to broaden support to more frameworks such as SensorKit and VisualIntelligence.

When users are content with their app, they can share it via TestFlight if they hold a Pro subscription and an Apple Developer Account. This functionality enables users to showcase their creations to others for testing and feedback.

#### Conclusion

Though Bitrig may not substitute traditional coding for seasoned developers, it acts as a potent resource for regular users eager to manifest their app ideas without extensive programming expertise. The app illustrates how vibe coding can make app development more democratic, thereby enhancing its accessibility and efficiency. For those keen to delve into this innovative technique, Bitrig can be downloaded from the App Store.

For further details, visit the [Bitrig website](https://www.bitrig.app) or download the app directly from the

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Apple Launches Updates for App Store Connect Compatible with iOS 26 and Liquid Glass

### Apple App Store Connect Version 3.1: Important Updates and Features

Apple has launched an update for App Store Connect, upgrading the app to version 3.1. This latest version offers compatibility with iOS 26, featuring a new icon and implementing Apple’s cutting-edge Liquid Glass design throughout the application.

#### Overview of App Store Connect

App Store Connect serves as an essential resource for developers, enabling them to effectively manage their app listings on the App Store. This platform is crucial for app creators to track performance, modify app details, and engage with users via ratings and reviews.

#### New Features in Version 3.1

The recent update includes numerous enhancements aimed at improving user experience and functionality:

– **Updated Appearance**: The app now showcases a refreshed interface with Liquid Glass design and new icons, delivering a more attractive visual experience.

– **Age Rating Accessibility**: Developers can now access their app’s age rating for all countries and regions, ensuring adherence to local regulations and guidelines.

– **Enhanced Ratings and Reviews Filtering**: The update provides better filtering capabilities for ratings and reviews, simplifying the process for developers to evaluate feedback and implement necessary changes.

– **Performance Enhancements**: Version 3.1 incorporates a variety of bug fixes and stability upgrades, ensuring smoother functionality of the app.

#### Availability

App Store Connect version 3.1 is currently available for download in the App Store. For those keen on learning more about the Liquid Glass design and its application across different apps, further details can be found in a thorough roundup

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Apple Maps Gets Major Improvement in iOS 16 for Essential Feature Boost

Apple Maps has recently rolled out a variety of new features in iOS 26, significantly enhancing its search capabilities thanks to Apple Intelligence. This update is designed to elevate user experience by enabling natural language searches, simplifying the process of locating places and services.

### Maps Now Provides Natural Language Search with Apple Intelligence

The incorporation of Apple Intelligence into Maps signifies a major evolution in how users engage with the application. Previously, Apple Intelligence had already improved search functionalities in other apps such as Photos, Apple Music, and the TV app. Now, Maps takes advantage of this AI-driven innovation, aiming to render search queries more intuitive and effective.

With this latest update, users can enter search queries in a conversational style. For example, a prompt appears while using Maps that invites users to “Search the Way You Talk,” proposing phrases like “Locate cafes with free Wi-Fi.” This feature facilitates more complex and specific searches that were once difficult for the app to interpret.

The AI functionalities empower Maps to grasp and handle intricate queries. For instance, during the beta testing of iOS 26, a search for “Coffee shops close to Disney World that offer Wi-Fi” was performed. Unlike previous iterations, which found such detailed requests challenging, the updated Maps effortlessly understood the query and delivered relevant results.

This improvement not only simplifies the search process but also underscores Apple’s dedication to enhancing user engagement through advanced technology. The natural language search capability is anticipated to have a substantial impact on how users navigate and utilize the Maps app, transforming it into a more effective tool for locating places and services.

As users start to utilize the new AI search features in iOS 26, feedback regarding its performance will likely influence forthcoming updates and enhancements. The integration of natural language processing within Apple Maps signifies progress towards a more user-friendly navigation experience.

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