Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple’s AI Strategy: A Prudent Path Amid Criticism

Apple has encountered significant criticism regarding its artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, especially after the postponement of several major updates to Siri earlier this year. Nonetheless, a recent report highlights the reasoning behind Apple’s unique stance on AI, which departs from that of its competitors.

### Apple’s Prudent AI Expenditure

Despite the backlash, there is an increasing sense of hope surrounding Apple’s AI strategy as it approaches the new year. Wall Street analysts have started to propose that Apple’s prudent expenditure on AI could ultimately become an asset. A report from *The Information* supports this idea, suggesting that Apple’s leadership possesses a distinct viewpoint on the future of large language models (LLMs).

The report notes that some Apple executives are of the opinion that LLMs will eventually become standardized. This perspective might clarify why Apple has chosen to take a more conservative approach in funding its own AI models compared to competitors like OpenAI, Meta, and Google, which have invested heavily in LLM development.

### The Prospects of LLMs and Apple’s Stance

The notion that LLMs will transition into commodities indicates that Apple is setting itself up to harness existing technologies rather than heavily invest in creating proprietary models. This approach suggests that Apple’s success in AI will depend less on crafting custom models and more on its capability to integrate AI efficiently across its hardware, software, and services.

At present, Apple excels in these domains, which could lay a robust groundwork for its AI projects in the future. By concentrating on enhancing the ecosystem where AI operates, Apple may be able to take advantage of developments in AI technology without facing the substantial costs linked to developing proprietary models.

### Conclusion

While Apple’s AI strategy has faced criticism, the company’s cautious approach might ultimately turn out to be a strategic benefit. As the AI landscape continues to transform, Apple’s emphasis on integration and enhancement could place it in a favorable position in a future where LLMs are broadly available and commoditized. The ongoing trends in this field will be closely monitored by industry analysts and consumers alike.

# iOS 26 Unveils the Preview App: A Fresh Tool for Document Oversight

Apple’s iOS 26 has introduced thrilling enhancements to its platform, among which are two entirely new applications: Preview and Apple Games. Notably, the Preview app stands out as a significant upgrade for users who regularly work with PDFs and images. This article delves into the features and advantages of the Preview app, which is now accessible on both iPhone and iPad.

## Preview App: A Specialized Center for PDFs and Images

The Preview app draws inspiration from its Mac version, offering a dedicated environment for viewing, editing, and annotating PDFs and images. With iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, users can launch this app straight from their Home Screen, simplifying their document handling.

Apple characterizes the Preview app as a utility that empowers users to sketch quickly, view and modify PDFs and images, and make use of Apple Pencil or touch for annotating documents. Users can swiftly access their files from the Files app, create blank pages for notes, and leverage AutoFill to expedite PDF form completion.

## Improved Document Management

Prior to the release of iOS 26, PDFs and images were mainly managed through the Files app, which could be restrictive for users managing numerous documents. The Preview app transforms this situation by offering a more effective means to oversee and engage with these files.

A major benefit of the Preview app is its capacity to support multitasking. Users can open multiple documents at once, facilitating easier switching between them. For example, during a recent home purchasing experience, handling various PDFs became simpler with Preview. Users can have one PDF displayed in Preview while accessing another in the Files app via the Quick Look feature, enabling seamless document navigation.

## Tailored for iPadOS 26

The Preview app is especially advantageous for iPad users, particularly when paired with the new window management system launched in iPadOS 26. Users can organize their workspace by keeping Preview in a larger window on one side of the display while exploring the Files app in a narrower window on the opposite side. This arrangement boosts productivity by allowing quick access to various documents without the need for constant app switching.

Furthermore, Preview provides a comprehensive suite of editing tools that align it more closely with the capabilities found on the Mac. Users can insert and delete pages from PDFs, sign documents using Markup, and effortlessly fill out forms. This expanded toolkit makes Preview a formidable addition to the iOS and iPadOS landscape.

## Summary

The launch of the Preview app in iOS 26 represents a major advancement in document management for iPhone and iPad users. With its specialized features for viewing and editing PDFs and images, as well as improved multitasking abilities, Preview has rapidly become an indispensable resource for those who frequently manage documents. As users continue to discover its features, the Preview app is poised to transform how documents are handled on mobile devices.

What has your experience been with the Preview app in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

The watch face stands out as one of the most significant features of the Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 introduces substantial enhancements to watch faces in three key areas. Here’s what’s new.

## #1: Completely new watch faces

As is often the case with significant new versions of watchOS, Apple’s latest update brings a selection of entirely new watch faces.

watchOS 26 contributes a total of four new faces. According to Apple’s release notes:

– **Exactograph** reinterprets a classic regulator watch, distinguishing hours, minutes, and seconds for enhanced time accuracy.
– **Flow** features Liquid Glass numerals that refract a flowing orb of color responsive to wrist movement.
– **Waypoint** serves as a dynamic compass that indicates your position relative to saved locations in Maps or points of interest (Available on Apple Watch Ultra).
– **Hermès Faubourg Party** showcases animated shorts that emerge in accordance with the time of day or specific gestures featuring a range of characters (Available on Apple Watch Hermès).

It’s always exciting to have additional watch face choices, and I am particularly fond of the new Flow and Waypoint faces this year.

## #2: Enhancements to existing faces

Several watch faces that you are already familiar with received updates in watchOS 26 as well.

The Photos face, which Apple identifies as its most favored option, saw two enhancements this year:

1. Liquid Glass time
2. Featured photos option

In line with the systemwide Liquid Glass aesthetic, there’s now a ‘Glass’ color option for the clock on the face that allows more of your photo to be visible. Choosing ‘Featured’ for your image source guarantees you’ll view many of the top photos in your library.

In addition to the improvements for the Photos face, Apple has expanded support for ticking seconds with the always-on display to a broader range of faces.

Always-on seconds support was introduced last year with Apple Watch Series 10, but initially, only a handful of watch faces featured the capability. It has now extended to more devices and software.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11 now provide ticking seconds in always-on mode, and the roster of supported faces has significantly increased.

## #3: Watch face ‘hints’

Upon installing watchOS 26 on your Apple Watch, you might spot a distinctive UI element on your watch face.

A new feature called ‘hints’ will materialize at the bottom of your display, resembling a Liquid Glass complication.

Hints suggest apps and actions linked to the Smart Stack.

Here’s how it operates, according to Apple:

> In watchOS 26, the Smart Stack enhances its prediction algorithms by utilizing more contextual data, sensor data, and insights from a user’s routine to deliver Smart Stack hints, a proactive prompt for actionable suggestions that are instantly useful. Crafted from Liquid Glass, Smart Stack hints will show on the display as a subtle visual cue. For instance, a hint for Backtrack may pop up when a user finds themselves in a remote area lacking connectivity, or a hint for a Pilates workout might appear when a user arrives at a studio around their typical time.

The Smart Stack has traditionally offered suggested data and actionable prompts, but users previously had to scroll the Digital Crown of their Apple Watch to manually access Smart Stack and locate them.

By bringing these suggestions directly onto the watch face, Apple aims to enhance their visibility and usefulness.

Which features of the new watch face options in watchOS 26 have you been enjoying on your Apple Watch? Share your thoughts in the comments.

**Shrinking Season 3: What to Anticipate from Apple TV’s Beloved Comedy**

Apple TV’s celebrated comedy series, *Shrinking*, is scheduled to make its return for the much-anticipated third season on January 28. Following the triumph of its earlier seasons, the show continues to win over audiences with its distinct blend of humor and heartfelt moments.

### Premiere Information

*Shrinking* Season 3 will begin with a unique hour-long episode, succeeded by weekly installments that will run until April 8. This structure enables fans to enjoy each episode while heightening excitement for the evolving plotlines.

### The Creative Forces Behind *Shrinking*

The series is co-created by Bill Lawrence, also recognized for his contributions to the cherished show *Ted Lasso*. Alongside Lawrence, *Shrinking* showcases the skills of Brett Goldstein and Jason Segel, both of whom enrich the show’s captivating storytelling and character arcs.

### Cast and Special Guests

The diverse cast of *Shrinking* is a key element of its charm. Season 3 is set to reintroduce familiar faces, such as Goldstein, Damon Wayans Jr., Wendie Malick, and Cobie Smulders. Furthermore, the new season will welcome prominent guest stars like Jeff Daniels and the multi-award-winning advocate Michael J. Fox, enhancing the storyline’s allure.

### Trailer Launch

The recently unveiled trailer for Season 3 highlights the show’s distinctive humor and poignant moments, teasing the obstacles and development the characters will experience. Fans can watch the trailer for an early glimpse of what lies ahead.

### Where to Stream

For anyone wishing to catch up on the initial two seasons of *Shrinking*, they can be streamed on Apple TV. The platform provides a subscription service priced at $12.99 monthly, featuring a range of popular shows and films, including *Ted Lasso* and *Severance*.

### Final Thoughts

As *Shrinking* gears up to make its comeback, fans are excited to witness the characters’ growth and the new hurdles they will face. With its strong creative team, talented cast, and compelling narratives, Season 3 is set to be another remarkable chapter in this cherished series.

# Features Coming in iOS 27: What to Anticipate

The forthcoming significant iPhone software update, iOS 27, is scheduled to be revealed at WWDC in June, with various thrilling features rumored to be part of the launch. Below is a glance at seven expected upgrades that could enhance the iPhone experience.

## 1. Apple Health+

Apple is said to be developing an AI-driven health service known as Apple Health+. This new addition is designed to improve the current Health app by integrating features such as coaching, food tracking, and educational content. The objective is to offer users tailored advice to assist them in reaching their health and wellness goals. There is conjecture that Health+ may connect with Apple Fitness+, possibly unifying the two services into a holistic health ecosystem.

## 2. Multitasking Features for iPhone Fold

With the anticipated debut of the first iPhone Fold in September, iOS 27 is expected to introduce multitasking capabilities specifically for this new device. Users might experience a windowing system akin to that of iPadOS, facilitating a more adaptable and efficient use of the foldable screen, resembling an iPad mini when opened.

## 3. Siri Visual Overhaul

Siri is poised for substantial changes, including a visual overhaul in iOS 27. Following the major AI upgrades anticipated in iOS 26.4, the redesign seeks to modernize Siri and align it with the latest developments in AI technology. This two-stage rollout allows Apple to refine Siri’s features before presenting a complete visual update.

## 4. AI-Enhanced Web Search Functionality

Apple is reportedly crafting an AI-augmented web search tool for iOS 27. While information remains sparse, this feature is likely to expand on the current Spotlight search function, potentially incorporating AI capabilities to enhance search outcomes and user experience.

## 5. Upgraded Collections in Photos App

Enhancements are expected for the Photos app in iOS 27, particularly regarding collections. Leaked codes indicate advancements that could improve how users manage and share their images. A revamped Shared Albums feature is among the desired improvements, following significant revisions made in earlier iOS updates.

## 6. Innovative AirPods Pairing System

A novel pairing system for AirPods is also rumored to be part of iOS 27. This update, found in early internal builds, aims to bolster the already robust pairing features of AirPods, streamlining the connection process for users.

## 7. Overhaul of the Calendar App

Apple is reportedly focusing on a major redesign of the Calendar app, which has not received significant updates in recent times. Although specific details are limited, this revamp is expected to modernize the application and enhance its functionality across Apple’s devices.

## Bonus: Snow Leopard-Style Update

In addition to new features, iOS 27 is anticipated to prioritize bug fixes and performance upgrades, echoing the “Snow Leopard” update for Mac. This strategy aims to bolster overall software quality, guaranteeing a smoother and more dependable user experience.

As the launch of iOS 27 draws near, users are keen to discover which features will be finalized. The mix of groundbreaking new tools and a dedication to performance enhancements promises to render this update one of the most exhilarating yet.

# Enhancing Your Mac Setup: Key Accessories for Improved Productivity

Improving and perfecting your Mac setup can greatly boost your productivity and overall user experience. Whether you’ve just unboxed a new Mac or are eager to upgrade your current setup, there are a variety of accessories that can elevate your workflow. Below are some of the finest accessories that can transform your workspace into a productivity hub.

## Table of Contents
1. Logitech MX Master 4
2. Satechi Desk Mat
3. OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock
4. Satechi USB-C 165W Charger
5. Laptop Stands from Twelve South
6. Beats Pill
7. iPhone Stand
8. Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
9. Apple Magic Trackpad
10. Satechi Headphone Stand
11. HomeKit Light Strips
12. Philips Hue Play Light Bar
13. HomeKit Desk Lamp
14. Under-desk Storage Shelf
15. Cleaning Solutions

### Logitech MX Master 4
The Logitech MX Master 4 is an improved model of its predecessor, boasting haptic feedback and enhanced build quality. This mouse prioritizes comfort and efficiency, making it essential for any Mac user. Its stain-resistant surface and textured plastic enhance its durability.

[Buy on Amazon](https://geni.us/eOqdGUp)

### Satechi Desk Mat
An elegant desk mat can elevate the look of your workspace. The Satechi eco-leather desk mat comes in various colors and features a dual-sided design, making it both durable and versatile.

[Buy on Satechi](https://geni.us/Hp5TfdA)

### OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock
The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock streamlines connectivity with a single cable that links your MacBook Pro to multiple devices. It includes four Thunderbolt 5 ports and a USB-A port, ensuring all your connections are easily accessible.

[Learn more](https://geni.us/iyTS)

### Satechi USB-C 165W Charger
Featuring four USB-C ports, the Satechi USB-C 165W Charger enables you to power multiple devices simultaneously at full speed. This charger is a valuable investment for anyone aiming to keep their devices charged.

[Buy on Satechi](https://geni.us/7m7unb)

### Laptop Stands from Twelve South
For users who prefer a tidy desk, the Twelve South BookArc allows you to store your MacBook Pro in clamshell mode. Alternatively, the Twelve South Curve is ideal for using your laptop with the lid open.

[Explore Twelve South](https://geni.us/jgu6i)

### Beats Pill
The Beats Pill is a mobile speaker that provides remarkable sound quality. Available in various colors, it’s great for both office use and listening on the go.

### iPhone Stand
The Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe functions as a vertical charging stand for your iPhone and includes a wireless charging pad for AirPods and a built-in charging puck for the Apple Watch.

[Buy on Twelve South](https://geni.us/AqA8o)

### Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
The Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID integrates effortlessly with your Mac, enabling you to unlock your device and make payments with ease. Its familiar typing experience improves the transition between your laptop and desktop setups.

[Buy on Apple](https://geni.us/URhDW)

### Apple Magic Trackpad
Alongside the Logitech MX Master, the Apple Magic Trackpad offers gesture support for tasks requiring precision, making it an essential component of your setup.

[Buy on Apple](https://geni.us/fuBey8)

### Satechi Headphone Stand
The Satechi 2-in-1 Headphone Stand not only organizes your headphones but also includes a Qi charger for your iPhone or AirPods, rendering it a functional accessory for any desk.

[Buy on Satechi](https://geni.us/KkAHTc)

### HomeKit Light Strips
HomeKit light strips can enhance your workspace’s ambiance, allowing you to adjust brightness and color from your iPhone or via Siri. They are an economical way to personalize your setup.

[Buy on Amazon](https://geni.us/V5LA44j)

### Philips Hue Play Light Bar
For a more luxurious lighting option, the Philips Hue Play Light Bar provides stunning accent lighting, perfect for establishing a warm atmosphere in your office.

[Learn more](https://geni.us/x5B1NWI)

### HomeKit Desk Lamp
A modern HomeKit-compatible desk lamp offers customizable lighting, making it particularly useful in bright settings.

[Buy on Amazon](https://geni.us/Gd6BWJP)

### Under-desk Storage Shelf
The HumanCentric Under Desk Storage Shelf is a practical solution for decluttering your workspace while maximizing organizational space.

### The Future of Apple IT: Predictions for 2026

As we anticipate 2026, the realm of Apple IT is set for substantial change. With the swift evolution of technology and the growing presence of Apple devices within workplaces, numerous trends are expected to influence IT management and deployment in the coming years.

#### 1. Advanced Device Management Solutions

The challenges associated with overseeing a wide range of Apple devices will demand more advanced management solutions. Platforms like Mosyle are at the forefront by providing unified solutions that simplify the deployment, management, and safeguarding of Apple devices. This integration will alleviate the strain on IT departments, enabling organizations to concentrate on strategic goals rather than routine device management.

#### 2. Heightened Emphasis on Security

As cyber threats continue to advance, securing Apple devices will become a paramount concern for organizations. Anticipate improvements in security measures, including stronger encryption techniques and enhanced user authentication processes. Businesses will need to embrace a proactive stance on security, utilizing tools that offer real-time monitoring and threat identification.

#### 3. Increased Implementation of Automation

Automation will be essential in the future of Apple IT. By automating repetitive tasks such as software updates, device provisioning, and compliance assessments, organizations can enhance efficiency and minimize human mistakes. This transition will allow IT teams to redirect resources to more pressing areas, such as user assistance and strategic planning.

#### 4. Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) will progressively shape the management and utilization of Apple devices in professional settings. AI-driven analytics will yield insights into device usage trends, assisting organizations in making informed decisions regarding resource management and device lifecycle. Moreover, AI can elevate user experiences through tailored support and automated troubleshooting.

#### 5. Remote Work and Hybrid Models

The emergence of remote and hybrid work models will continue to influence how Apple devices are deployed and managed. Organizations will be required to ensure employees have seamless access to essential tools and resources, irrespective of their location. This will necessitate robust remote management solutions that can effectively support a dispersed workforce.

#### 6. Commitment to Sustainability

With growing environmental concerns, organizations will increasingly focus on sustainability within their IT strategies. This could encompass the adoption of energy-efficient devices, implementing recycling initiatives for outdated hardware, and selecting vendors that uphold eco-friendly practices. Apple’s dedication to sustainability is likely to affect how companies strategize their IT initiatives.

#### Conclusion

The landscape of Apple IT in 2026 is expected to be vibrant and transformative. By adopting advanced management solutions, emphasizing security, harnessing automation and AI, adjusting to new work models, and pledging to sustainability, organizations can ensure readiness for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As we traverse this changing environment, platforms like Mosyle will be critical in assisting organizations in maximizing the potential of their Apple devices.

For further insights and discussions regarding the future of Apple IT, tune in to the latest episodes of Apple @ Work.

**App Tracking Transparency: Examining Its Effect and Influence in 2025**

When Apple launched App Tracking Transparency (ATT) in iOS 14.5, it represented a major transformation in user privacy in third-party applications. This functionality enabled iPhone users to decide if their data within apps could be collected and shared with third parties for advertising and other reasons.

### How It Operates

Within the ATT system, developers are required to secure user consent before sharing any data. Users see prompts upon installing new apps, inquiring, “Permit [app name] to monitor your activity across other companies’ apps and websites?” Users can opt for “Allow” or “Ask App Not to Track.”

Selecting “Allow” permits the app to gather various information, including age, gender, location, usage patterns, and browsing behaviors. This data is crucial for advertisers looking to build comprehensive user profiles for targeted marketing.

Conversely, choosing “Ask App Not to Track” blocks the app from accessing the Identifier for Advertisers (IDFA), a unique identifier given to iOS devices. Without the IDFA, advertisers are unable to associate user activities across various apps, complicating the tracking of shopping behaviors alongside social media interactions. This choice effectively restricts access at the system API level, hindering companies from discovering workarounds.

Nonetheless, developers can still monitor users through alternative methods such as IP addresses or personal details supplied within the app. This nuance explains why Apple uses the term “Ask” instead of a straightforward “Deny,” acknowledging the enforcement limitations.

### Is It Still Impactful?

The efficacy of ATT can be assessed from two angles. On one side, tracking has drastically diminished; before ATT, around 73% of U.S. users were trackable by advertisers, and that figure has dropped to about 18%. Major firms, particularly Meta, have experienced repercussions, with losses estimated at $12.8 billion in 2022 alone.

On the flip side, advertisers have adapted to these new circumstances. With the reduction in IDFA usage, methods like device fingerprinting have gained traction. This approach gathers data such as screen size, operating system version, and time zone, enabling advertisers to develop profiles without depending on IDFA. Additionally, numerous apps have pivoted towards contextual advertising, concentrating on user behavior within their specific applications rather than across several platforms.

While ATT has successfully curtailed cross-app tracking, it has not completely eliminated tracking. Advertisers have merely discovered alternative approaches, making it more challenging and expensive to collect user data, aligning with Apple’s goals to strengthen user privacy.

### Conclusion

App Tracking Transparency has significantly transformed the user privacy landscape on iOS devices. While it has been effective in diminishing cross-app tracking, the progression of tracking methods illustrates that the struggle for user privacy is far from over. As advertisers adjust to these developments, it remains essential for users to remain aware of their data privacy and the consequences of their choices within applications.

### Additional Roomba Models Now Compatible with HomeKit

The recent firmware upgrade for Roomba vacuums has broadened compatibility with the Matter smart home standard, allowing users to connect their devices with Apple’s HomeKit through the Home app on iOS 18.4 or later. This upgrade is crucial for those seeking to enhance their smart home functionality.

#### Roomba Models That Are Compatible

Thanks to this upgrade, the following Roomba models are now officially acknowledged as Matter-compatible:

– Roomba® Plus 500 Combo
– Roomba® Max 700 Vac
– Roomba® Max 700 Combo
– Roomba Combo® 10 Max

This improvement enables users to conveniently schedule cleaning tasks or activate their Roomba via Siri or the Home app, thus making smart home administration more streamlined.

#### Update Context

The timing of this upgrade is significant, as iRobot has recently sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. This decision follows obstacles faced by the company, including a thwarted acquisition attempt by Amazon. After the bankruptcy, iRobot is poised to be acquired by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co, which has previously partnered with the firm.

#### How to Update Your Roomba

To verify that your Roomba is up to date, iRobot offers a comprehensive guide. A Roomba connected to Wi-Fi will automatically update its system software when it is connected to the internet and on its Home Base. Users can check for software updates through the iRobot® HOME App or Roomba® Home App by navigating to More > Settings > About (robot name).

#### Incorporating Roomba into Apple Home via Matter

To integrate a compatible Roomba into a Matter ecosystem, users can adhere to these instructions within the Roomba® Home mobile app:

1. Tap the My Home button located at the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap the user account icon positioned at the top of the screen.
3. Tap “Connected Services.”
4. Tap “Apple Home.”
5. Follow the instructions in the app.

For users utilizing the iRobot® Home (Classic) mobile app, the steps are quite similar:

1. Tap the hamburger menu button.
2. Tap “Smart Home.”
3. Tap “Connected Services.”
4. Tap “Apple Home.”
5. Follow the instructions in the app.

Once incorporated, users can manage their Roomba’s connection through the Apple Home app.

#### Final Thoughts

The extension of Matter compatibility to additional Roomba models improves the incorporation of these devices into smart home frameworks, especially for Apple users. As iRobot deals with its recent difficulties, this update could serve as a timely enhancement in user involvement and satisfaction.

Ford has reiterated its dedication to backing Apple CarPlay, underscoring the significance of offering drivers options for in-car technology. At the 2025 Barclays Global Auto and Mobility Tech Conference, Ford CFO Sherry House conveyed the company’s enthusiasm for CarPlay, noting that it is a feature appreciated by customers and will remain a part of Ford vehicles.

House emphasized Ford’s approach of merging external technologies like CarPlay with their own proprietary apps, which have experienced considerable engagement enhancements. The company intends to launch Gemini in 2026, while also continuing the development of native applications aimed at improving customer connectivity.

This dedication to CarPlay is especially remarkable given General Motors’ recent choice to eliminate the platform from its vehicles, positioning Ford’s position as a refreshing contrast in the automotive sector. Nevertheless, it is still unclear if Ford will endorse the forthcoming CarPlay Ultra, as CEO Jim Farley has voiced concerns regarding its initial implementation, despite ongoing dialogues with Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Moreover, there are speculations that Tesla might soon roll out CarPlay support, representing a notable shift for the electric vehicle producer, which has been a prominent holdout against the platform.

As consumers increasingly emphasize technological features in their vehicle selections, the question lingers: Is CarPlay still an essential “must-have” for car buyers?