Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

“Weather Up 3 Unveils All-Inclusive Super Widget Featuring New iOS 18 Functionalities – 9to5Mac”

# Delving into the Interactive Aspects of Weather Up 3: A Revolutionary Tool for iOS 17 and Beyond

With iOS 17’s launch, Apple unveiled a variety of interactive widgets that fundamentally altered user interaction with home screens. Among the prominent apps fully utilizing these new functionalities is **Weather Up 3**, which not only enriches the user experience but also enhances home screen customization with the newest theming features introduced in iOS 18.

## The Strength of Interactive Widgets

Weather Up 3 is an innovative weather application that merges several widgets into a unified, interactive experience. Unlike conventional widgets that simply present information, Weather Up enables users to engage with the widget in diverse ways based on their touchpoints. This groundbreaking method shifts the widget from being a mere data visualizer to a lively instrument that delivers up-to-the-minute weather updates and predictions.

### Notable Features of Weather Up 3.0 (January 2024)

The most recent iteration of Weather Up, launched in January 2024, boasts a super widget that supplies extensive weather information for the coming days while also offering instant weather updates. Users can quickly check their home screen to access a wealth of data without having to open the app.

In addition, Weather Up 3 is compatible not just with iPhones; it also offers its features for the Apple Watch. Tailored for watchOS 10, the app features a contemporary interface that utilizes the watch’s display optimally. Users can conveniently add Weather Up to their watch face, ensuring they are always informed about current weather conditions. The app also facilitates smooth transitions between data sources like Apple, Aeris, and AccuWeather, making it an adaptable option for weather aficionados.

## Upgrades in Weather Up 3.1 (September 2024)

As we near the launch of iOS 18, Weather Up has seen further enhancements with the arrival of version 3.1 in September 2024. This update introduces support for light, dark, and tinted app icons, empowering users to tailor their home screen according to their mood or aesthetic desires. The interactive widget has also been refined for color tinting, enriching the overall visual appeal.

### Subscription and Trial Options

Weather Up runs on a subscription basis, costing $5 per month. Nevertheless, users can opt for an annual plan that provides 12 months for the price of 8, making it a budget-friendly choice for those wanting to keep updated on weather conditions throughout the year. For those wary of making a long-term commitment, Weather Up offers a week-long free trial, giving potential users the opportunity to explore the full range of the app’s capabilities before deciding on a payment.

## Conclusion

Weather Up 3 transcends the notion of a typical weather app; it serves as an all-encompassing tool that harnesses the latest iOS advancements to deliver an interactive and tailored user experience. Featuring its cutting-edge widget design, compatibility with Apple Watch, and customizable attributes, Weather Up emerges as an essential application for anyone eager to enhance their weather-monitoring skills. Whether you’re a weather enthusiast or just wish to stay informed, Weather Up 3 is definitely worth checking out.

To discover the next generation of weather applications,

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WhatsApp Launches Channel Exploration Based on Categories for Users

# WhatsApp Channels: Fresh Features and Improvements

WhatsApp, the widely-used messaging platform owned by Meta, has been consistently advancing to cater to its users’ demands. Among the major updates launched last year was **WhatsApp Channels**, a function tailored for one-way communication that enables users to share text, photos, videos, and stickers with numerous people at once. This feature has recently been upgraded, boosting its capabilities and simplifying the process for users to find and engage with Channels that pique their interest.

## What are WhatsApp Channels?

WhatsApp Channels act as a broadcasting mechanism, allowing organizations, public figures, and businesses to disseminate updates and content to their followers. Unlike standard group chats, Channels facilitate one-way communication, where only the channel admins can send messages, while followers can merely view the shared content. This arrangement is especially beneficial for relaying information to large audiences without the distractions of interactive discussions.

## New Features Heading to WhatsApp Channels

With this recent update, WhatsApp has unveiled an **enhanced search feature by category**. Users can now explore new Channels to follow based on their interests, classified into several categories:

– **People**
– **Organizations**
– **Lifestyle**
– **Sports**
– **Entertainment**
– **Businesses**
– **News & Information**

This classification aims to simplify the exploration process, enabling users to easily traverse Channels that resonate with their preferences.

## Increasing Popularity of WhatsApp Channels

Currently, more than **500 million individuals** globally engage with WhatsApp Channels on a monthly basis. Some of the most popular Channels are:

– [Billie Eilish Home](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VadBaDqHgZWZF4nzt60V)
– [Rosalia](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaGxAeRG3R3fYgVYUi2d)
– [UNICEF Official](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VZytpyRG8l5MJRwg811f)
– [NFL](https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaO7rI3WHTfjLq9u80T)
– [Inter Miami CF Official](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaXhetw7tkj7nHeKGw1L)
– [Netflix](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5nZToFSAt56yKM0C1f)

These Channels have emerged as essential sources of information and entertainment for users, highlighting the wide variety of content accessible on the platform.

## Recent Upgrades

In January, WhatsApp launched the capability to send **voice messages and polls** within Channels, further enriching the communication experience. Meta indicated that around **7 million audio messages** are dispatched daily on WhatsApp, underscoring the popularity of voice communication among users. Additionally, the number of administrators for a Channel has been raised to **16**, enabling improved management and content creation.

Recently, WhatsApp has also introduced support for **animated stickers** from GIPHY, adding an enjoyable and lively dimension to the messaging experience. Furthermore, the platform is developing an **AirDrop-like feature** for sharing files, which promises to simplify file transfers among users.

## Availability

The new features for WhatsApp Channels are currently being deployed worldwide and are anticipated to be accessible to all users shortly. For those eager to explore WhatsApp Channels, the app is available for free on the

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Apple Unveils Four New Collaborators for Wallet IDs as California Backing Begins

### Apple Wallet Grows ID Capabilities: A New Chapter for Digital IDs

In a noteworthy advancement in personal identification digitization, Apple has officially started implementing support for the addition of driver’s licenses and state IDs to Apple Wallet in California. This initiative, revealed last month, symbolizes a crucial step in the company’s continual endeavor to refine and improve the user experience for managing personal documents.

#### Growth Beyond California

Following California’s example, Apple has also received commitments from Montana, New Mexico, and West Virginia to enable ID support in Wallet. Remarkably, Japan has joined the venture, intending to incorporate its “My Number Card” into Apple Wallet, representing the first international extension of this feature. This worldwide initiative demonstrates Apple’s goal to transform how individuals handle their identification across different jurisdictions.

#### California’s Mobile Driver’s License Test Program

The rollout of California’s digital ID feature is part of an extensive mobile driver’s license (mDL) test program, which currently includes 1.5 million participants. Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, highlighted the importance of this development, stating, “Allowing California residents to effortlessly add and display their IDs using their iPhone or Apple Watch signifies a major advancement in replacing physical wallets with a more secure and private digital alternative.”

#### Availability Across States

With the launch in California, the ID feature of Apple Wallet is now available in seven states, including:

– Ohio
– Maryland
– Arizona
– Georgia
– Colorado
– California
– Hawaii

This growth enables users in these regions to incorporate their IDs into Apple Wallet, enhancing both convenience and security.

#### Steps to Add Your ID to Apple Wallet

For iPhone users in states that are participating, the process of adding an ID to Apple Wallet is uncomplicated:

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap the **+ icon** in the upper right corner.
2. Select **Driver’s License** or **State ID**.
3. Tap **Add to iPhone and Apple Watch** or **Add to iPhone**.
4. You may need to log into your state’s DMV/MVD website to authorize the inclusion of your ID into Apple Wallet.

#### Utilizing Your Digital ID

Once added, users can use their digital IDs for a variety of purposes. Apple states that having your ID in Wallet eliminates the need to present your physical ID. Users can provide proof of age or identity at specific businesses and locations, as well as travel with it at approved TSA checkpoints. This feature aims to streamline the ID presentation process, making it more convenient for daily use.

For those wishing to find out where their digital IDs are accepted, a complete mapping of airports that acknowledge digital IDs is available on the

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“Public Beta 1 Launched for iPadOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1”

# Apple Unveils Public Beta 1 for iPadOS 18.1, macOS Sequoia 15.1, and More: Discover New Features

Today, Apple has formally introduced the inaugural public beta for its forthcoming operating system updates, which encompass iPadOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1. This rollout allows a wider audience to investigate the latest functionalities and upgrades that Apple has planned. Significantly, users with M1 devices or newer can benefit from the new **Apple Intelligence** support, which aims to enhance the user experience through sophisticated AI functionalities. Below, we explore what users can anticipate from this preliminary beta release.

## A Glimpse at AI Features Launching in October

This week has marked a pivotal moment for Apple, as the company has launched essential updates across its platforms. On Monday, Apple rolled out:

– **iOS 18**
– **iPadOS 18**
– **macOS Sequoia**
– **visionOS 2**
– **watchOS 11**
– **tvOS 18**

For those keen to preview the next versions of these operating systems, the public beta program offers an outstanding chance to experience upcoming features without delay. Interested users can participate in the program at no cost via

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iOS 18.1 Public Beta 1 Launched with Enhanced Apple Intelligence Capabilities – 9to5Mac

# Apple Unveils First Public Beta of iOS 18.1: An Exploration of New Features and Apple Intelligence

Today, Apple has launched the initial public beta of iOS 18.1, the most recent software upgrade aimed at bringing revolutionary Apple Intelligence features to supported devices. Following the recent debut of iOS 18, Apple has been actively enhancing and adding functionalities, and this public beta provides a wider audience the chance to experience these advancements prior to the official release.

## Public Beta Delivers Apple Intelligence to More Users

With the first release of iOS 18 being accessible to millions worldwide, Apple has directed its attention to iOS 18.1, which has been under development for several months. Previously, only developers could access the beta version, but now anyone can download and install iOS 18.1 to preview the new features for iPhone users.

For those already participating in Apple’s public beta program, the update is conveniently available in the software update section of their iPhones. New users eager to experience beta features can join the program via

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Current Promotions: Get $500 Off MacBook Pro, Special Offers on M2 iPad Air, Apple Pencil, and Additional Items at 9to5Mac

# The Latest Offers on Apple Products: Essential Information

As the technology sector prepares for the debut of the iPhone 16, savvy consumers are searching for the most advantageous deals on Apple items. With impressive markdowns across a variety of devices, this is a prime opportunity to elevate your tech. Here’s a summary of some of the top current promotions, featuring laptops, tablets, accessories, and more.

## iPhone 16 Accessories: Cases and Chargers

Before the iPhone 16 arrives in stores, it’s important to think about protective accessories. A selection of **iPhone 16 cases** can be found at reduced prices, with choices like silicone and transparent cases that include Camera Control, starting now at **$41.99**. Furthermore, if you’re in need of a wall charger, take a look at the assortment of **45W USB-C chargers** designed to optimize your charging efficiency.

## Significant Savings on MacBooks

### M3 Pro MacBook Pro

For anyone seeking a high-performance laptop, the **16-inch M3 Pro MacBook Pro** is now offered at **$1,999**, which represents a considerable **$500 rebate** from its typical price of $2,499. This model features **18GB of RAM**, making it perfect for both professionals and creatives. If you prefer a more portable option, the **14-inch M3 Pro MacBook Pro** is also discounted to **$1,649**, down from $1,999.

## iPad Air Discounts

Apple’s **M2 iPad Air** is another sought-after product, with the **256GB version** currently listed at **$629.99**. This promotion signifies one of the best prices observed for this mid-range tablet, which is ideal for casual users as well as professionals in need of a dependable device for work or leisure.

## Apple Pencil Pro

The **Apple Pencil Pro** is on sale again for **$114.99**, reduced from its standard price of $129. This tool is fantastic for artists and note-takers, delivering precision and functionality that elevates the iPad experience.

## Apple Watch Discounts

### Original Apple Watch Ultra

If you’re in the market for a premium smartwatch, the original **Apple Watch Ultra** is currently available for **$449** (Amazon Renewed Premium), which is **$350 less** than the cost of the newer Ultra 2 model. While it might not boast all the newest features, it still provides remarkable performance and durability.

### Apple Watch Ultra 2

For those desiring the latest iteration, the **Apple Watch Ultra 2** can be found for **$689**, a **$110 discount** off its standard price of $799. This model includes advanced health monitoring and a robust design, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

## AirPods Pro 2

The **AirPods Pro 2** are also experiencing a price reduction, now priced at **$189.99**, down from $249. These earbuds deliver exceptional active noise cancellation and new hearing health features, making them a worthy investment for music aficionados and frequent travelers.

## Conclusion

With the launch of the iPhone 16 approaching rapidly, this is an ideal moment to capitalize on these deals for Apple products. Whether you’re in the market for a new laptop, tablet, or accessories, there are significant discounts to explore. Be sure to take advantage of these offers before they expire, and prepare for the most recent advancements in Apple technology.

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Comparison of Battery Capacities: iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15

### iPhone 16: Superior Battery Capacities and Enhanced Performance

With excitement rising for the launch of the iPhone 16, scheduled to debut tomorrow, fresh details regarding the device’s battery capacities have surfaced from Brazil’s National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel). These discoveries reveal a notable boost in battery capacity for all models of the iPhone 16 series, with the iPhone 16 Pro seeing the most significant improvement.

#### Overview of Battery Capacity

Apple generally refrains from revealing precise battery capacities for its products, preferring to focus on battery life performance. However, the latest insights from Anatel shed light on the battery specifications of the iPhone 16. Below is a comparative analysis of the battery capacities between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models:

| Model | iPhone 15 Battery Capacity (mAh) | iPhone 16 Battery Capacity (mAh) | Percentage Difference (%) |
|————-|———————————–|———————————–|—————————|
| Standard | 3,349 | 3,561 | 6.34% |
| Plus | 4,383 | 4,674 | 6.64% |
| Pro | 3,274 | 3,582 | 9.40% |
| Pro Max | 4,422 | 4,685 | 5.95% |

The information indicates that every model has experienced an increase in battery capacity, with the iPhone 16 Pro’s capacity increasing by 9.4%, marking the highest percentage growth among the lineup.

#### Enhancements in Performance

Initial evaluations of the iPhone 16 Pro suggest that these battery capacity increases lead to remarkable improvements in battery longevity. These enhancements result not only from the larger physical battery sizes but also from the efficiency advancements brought by the new A18 chip. Apple has also highlighted the improved thermal management in the iPhone 16 models, which aids in extending battery life.

For example, a review by *Tom’s Guide* showcased impressive results in a 5G browsing test. The iPhone 16 Pro managed a runtime of 14 hours and 7 minutes, a considerable rise from last year’s 10 hours and 53 minutes. Likewise, the iPhone 16 Pro Max clocked in at a runtime of 18 hours and 6 minutes, up from 14 hours and 2 minutes seen in the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

#### Conclusion

As the iPhone 16 series approaches its official launch, the insights imply that users can anticipate considerable enhancements in battery life and performance. The combination of boosted battery capacities and improved efficiency from the A18 chip positions the iPhone 16 as an attractive upgrade for those looking for enhanced mobile performance.

Stay tuned for further comprehensive testing and reviews as the devices enter the market, set to provide a remarkable experience for Apple fans.

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Report: Anticipated New Apple Wi-Fi Chip in iPad by 2025; iPhone SE Set to Include 5G Modem

# Apple’s Own 5G and Wi-Fi Chips: What Awaits in 2025

Apple has been diligently developing its proprietary 5G and Wi-Fi chips for several years, with these innovations set to launch in 2025. Recent news suggests that Apple intends to unveil its custom Wi-Fi chip in at least one iPad, while the 5G modem is anticipated to arrive with the iPhone SE 4. This represents a notable change in Apple’s approach, as the company seeks to reduce its dependence on external chip suppliers, especially Qualcomm.

## 2025: A Year of Fresh Starts

Per a report from Digitimes, Apple is preparing for a crucial year in 2025, marked by the introduction of two long-anticipated products: its in-house Wi-Fi chip and 5G modem. The article, written by Jay Liu and Eifeh Strom, details Apple’s aspirations for its forthcoming iPads and iPhones.

### The In-House Wi-Fi Chip

Sources within Apple’s supply chain imply that the company might launch its in-house Wi-Fi chip in new iPads in 2025. Alternatively, it may also be unveiled in select iPhone 18 models in 2026. This advancement could herald a new age for Apple’s connectivity technologies, enabling improved performance and integration across its devices.

### The 5G Modem

Apple is also believed to outfit its iPhones with a self-manufactured 5G modem by 2025. The iPhone SE 4 is expected to be the first model to use this new modem, likely arriving in the first half of the year. Subsequently, certain models of the iPhone 17 series may incorporate the new technology in the latter part of 2025. This aligns with earlier forecasts from industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who suggested that both the iPhone SE 4 and iPhone 17 Air would leverage Apple’s new modem.

The overarching aim appears to be a complete substitution of Qualcomm’s chips in Apple devices, potentially before their existing contract expires in 2027. This transition not only signifies Apple’s quest for enhanced control over its hardware but also seeks to elevate the user experience.

## The Advantages of Apple’s Custom Chips

Although the immediate gains from Apple’s proprietary chips may encompass cost efficiencies and diminished reliance on outside suppliers, the ramifications could be much broader. Here are some potential benefits:

### Improved Integration

By crafting its own Wi-Fi and 5G chips, Apple can attain superior integration between hardware and software. This could yield enhanced performance and dependability, as Apple fine-tunes its devices to operate flawlessly with its custom chips.

### New Product Possibilities

The rollout of Apple-designed chips could open avenues for new hardware products, such as sophisticated Wi-Fi routers. This may signify a return to the networking realm for Apple, which once provided AirPort devices before they were phased out.

### Innovative Features

With proprietary technology, Apple may unveil groundbreaking features that enrich the user experience. For example, advanced Continuity-like features could facilitate more robust and seamless interactions among devices, further reinforcing Apple’s ecosystem.

## Looking Forward

As 2025 approaches, excitement grows around Apple’s in-house 5G and Wi-Fi chips. The potential for enhanced performance, superior integration, and fresh product lines could significantly transform how users engage with their devices.

Are you looking forward to the possibility of Apple-designed 5G and Wi-Fi chips? What advantages do you foresee from them? Share your insights in the comments below.

*Wallpaper credit: Basic Apple Guy*

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“Apple Watch watchOS 11 Update Removes Four Watch Faces”

# The Elimination of Iconic Watch Faces in watchOS 11: An In-Depth Analysis

Apple’s watchOS 11 has ushered in numerous modifications to the Apple Watch landscape, yet not every change has been positively embraced. One of the most notable updates is the removal of several cherished watch faces, including the Siri face, Chronograph, Explorer, and Numerals. This article examines the repercussions of these omissions and the feedback from the Apple Watch community.

## Chronograph: An Enduring Classic

The Chronograph watch face boasts a storied past, having been included in the initial Apple Watch collection. It remained a fixture alongside the Chronograph Pro from watchOS 7 to watchOS 10. The design of the Chronograph face is rooted in the idea of a racing stopwatch, presenting a classic aesthetic that many users have treasured.

![Chronograph Watch Face](https://9to5mac.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2020/09/watchOS-7-Chronograph-Pro.jpg?quality=82&strip=all)

The later-introduced Chronograph Pro offered a contemporary revision of this traditional design, yet the original Chronograph face held a unique significance for many users. Its absence in watchOS 11 has created a noticeable void for those who appreciated its elegance and practicality.

## Explorer: The LTE Trailblazer

The Explorer watch face was launched with the Apple Watch Series 3, specifically crafted for LTE-enabled models. This analog face showcased distinctive red and white hand options and was the sole watch face to include a cellular signal indicator for years.

![Explorer Watch Face](https://9to5mac.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2020/12/watchOS-7-recap-review-Chronograph-Pro-Watch-Face.jpg?quality=82&strip=all)

The unique aesthetic and utility of the Explorer face made it a beloved choice among users valuing both visual appeal and practicality. Its removal prompts inquiries about Apple’s trajectory in serving users who prefer classic analog designs.

## Numerals: A Contemporary Spin on Tradition

The Numerals watch face, launched with watchOS 6, presented a novel interpretation of analog timekeeping. It featured numerical hour indicators behind traditional hands, offering a customizable appearance that resonated with many users. The option to modify colors and styles added a personal flair to the watch face.

!

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Apple TV’s Oprah Winfrey Documentary Called Off Following Star’s Involvement

### The Revelation of Oprah Winfrey’s Biographical Documentary: A Shift in the Story

In an unexpected turn of events, the much-awaited biographical documentary about Oprah Winfrey, slated for release on Apple TV+, will not be broadcast after all. Although filming was completed by Oscar-winning director Kevin Macdonald, reports suggest that Winfrey has decided to reimburse Apple for the project, thereby halting its release.

#### A Collaboration with Apple

Apple’s partnership with Oprah Winfrey commenced in 2019, marking a pivotal moment in the tech giant’s foray into original programming. This alliance resulted in the development of various successful shows, including *The Me You Can’t See*, *The Oprah Conversation*, *Oprah’s Book Club*, and *Oprah Talks COVID-19*. The collaboration was favorably received, culminating in a high-profile interview featuring Prince Harry, which further cemented Winfrey’s impact in the media sphere.

Nevertheless, the partnership concluded in September 2022, leaving a two-part biographical documentary commissioned by Apple in a state of uncertainty. The documentary was to be produced by Macdonald and Lisa Erspamer, who had previously worked together on the acclaimed Whitney Houston documentary, *Whitney*. Winfrey had expressed admiration for their efforts, which heightened expectations surrounding her own biopic.

#### The Choice to Withdraw the Documentary

Recent reports from *Page Six* indicate that Winfrey took the initiative to repurchase the rights to her documentary, a decision that has stirred speculation in the entertainment sector. A representative for Winfrey confirmed that as the Apple TV+ agreement was drawing to a close, she chose to pause the documentary after reacquiring the rights.

The financial repercussions of this choice remain ambiguous, with speculation suggesting that Winfrey may have disbursed a significant amount—potentially in the millions—to regain control over the project. However, Apple has not made any statements regarding the situation, leaving many inquiries unanswered.

#### Divergent Accounts Regarding the Rationale

The motivations behind Winfrey’s choice to halt the documentary’s release are enveloped in conflicting accounts. One source reports that Winfrey was unhappy with the final cut of the film, claiming, “Kevin made the film, but Oprah didn’t like it and he refused to change it.” This viewpoint indicates a creative disagreement between the director and the documentary’s subject.

In contrast, another insider from Winfrey’s team insists that Macdonald did not decline to implement changes and that Winfrey simply believed it was “not the right time to do a documentary.” This assertion hints at a more calculated decision rather than a response to the film’s quality.

#### The Prospects for the Documentary

At this moment, the destiny of Oprah Winfrey’s biographical documentary hangs in the balance. The conflicting accounts surrounding its cancellation have left fans and industry professionals pondering the true motivations behind the choice. While Winfrey’s impact and legacy are undeniable, the decision to withdraw the documentary prompts inquiries into the intricacies of storytelling, creative oversight, and the timing of personal narratives.

In a landscape where autobiographical storytelling is steadily increasing, Winfrey’s decision highlights the fragile equilibrium between public image and private existence. Whether the documentary will ever come to fruition remains uncertain, but for the time being, it stands as a reminder of the challenges faced by even the most prominent figures in shaping their own stories.

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