Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### Family Sharing Receives a Much-Needed Billing Update in iOS 26.4

With the launch of iOS 26.4 RC, Apple has tackled one of the major drawbacks of its Family Sharing feature, which has been operational since its debut in June 2014. This upgrade presents a new billing structure that enables adult family members to use their own payment methods for transactions instead of depending solely on the family organizer’s credit card.

#### The Development of Family Sharing

From its beginning, Family Sharing has experienced numerous improvements, incorporating features like Apple Cash Family and Apple Credit Card Family. Nevertheless, the fundamental billing model stayed the same, with all purchases made by family members being charged to the organizer’s credit card when purchase sharing was activated. This limitation frequently caused frustration among users desiring more leeway in handling their purchases.

#### New Purchase Sharing Functionality

The most significant alteration in iOS 26.4 RC is the rollout of a new Purchase Sharing feature. As per the release notes, adult members of Family Sharing groups can now leverage their own payment methods for transactions, removing the necessity to rely on the family organizer. This modification is anticipated to enhance the overall user experience by granting greater independence to family members.

#### Revised Support Documentation

Alongside the software update, Apple has also updated its support documentation related to Family Sharing. The revised text clarifies that while the family organizer covers all purchases when Purchase Sharing is enabled, adult family members have the option to utilize their own payment methods for their transactions. This change highlights the newly found flexibility and authority that adult members now possess within the Family Sharing system.

#### Conclusion

The iOS 26.4 RC update signifies a major advancement in the Family Sharing experience, addressing a long-standing issue among users. By empowering adult family members to manage their own purchases, Apple is improving the capabilities of Family Sharing, rendering it more user-friendly and suitable to the needs of families. For further information on the additional enhancements included in iOS 26.4, users can consult the official release notes.

**Apple Involved in AI Lawsuit by Chicken Soup for the Soul**

In a notable legal development, Chicken Soup for the Soul, a prominent book publisher, has initiated legal proceedings against various leading technology firms, including Apple, accusing them of unauthorized utilization of its copyrighted material to train artificial intelligence systems. The lawsuit was lodged in a federal court in California and underscores concerns regarding copyright violations in the swiftly advancing domain of AI.

As reported by Reuters, the lawsuit implicates not just Apple but also other tech behemoths such as Google, Nvidia, Meta Platforms, OpenAI, Anthropic, Perplexity AI, and Elon Musk’s xAI. Chicken Soup for the Soul alleges these companies exploited pirated versions of its publications to bolster the functionality of their AI chatbots, thus infringing upon the rights of innumerable authors whose works were allegedly appropriated.

The lawsuit contends that the defendants partook in a “deliberate act of theft” by unlawfully reproducing extensive amounts of copyrighted material without securing the requisite permissions. This content was reportedly utilized to develop and refine commercial large language models (LLMs) and improve various AI offerings. The complaint stresses that the actions of these corporations not only breach copyright statutes but also diminish the creative endeavors of authors, comprising bestselling writers and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists.

A particular issue in the lawsuit is the mention of “The Pile,” a dataset that Chicken Soup for the Soul claims was employed to train Apple’s Foundation Models. The lawsuit asserts that the defendants downloaded pirated editions of the publisher’s books from shadow-library websites, including The Pile, LibGen, Z-Library, and Anna’s Archive, and integrated these works into their AI frameworks without appropriate licensing.

This legal case is not the first instance of Apple being scrutinized for its AI training methodologies. Earlier in 2024, Apple was accused of leveraging YouTube videos in a comparable scenario. At that time, the company asserted that the dataset in question was used exclusively for research purposes and not in any models fueling Apple Intelligence or its machine learning capabilities.

As the lawsuit unfolds, it remains uncertain how Apple’s prior claims regarding its dataset usage will influence the case. The outcome could bear significant repercussions for the tech sector, especially concerning the ethical and legal limits of employing copyrighted materials in AI development.

The complete lawsuit can be accessed [here](https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/legaldocs/movaolmqqva/CHICKEN%20SOUP%20AI%20COPYRIGHT%20LAWSUIT%20complaint.pdf).

Apple revamped the Workout app in watchOS 26, but the new Apple Watch exercise tracking experience hasn’t been universally embraced. It appears Apple has been attentive, as watchOS 26.4 tackles a significant issue with the updated design.

## watchOS 26.4 enhances Workout app user experience

A prevalent dissatisfaction with the Workout app on watchOS 26 is its sluggishness and the need for increased interactions to commence a workout. The redesign marks a substantial shift after a decade of using the Apple Watch Workout app in a particular manner. The current design also feels somewhat less intuitive. The issue lies in what used to function like a tappable button in the former design now being merely a decorative element that disregards your tap.

However, with watchOS 26.4, Apple is modifying the existing design of the Workout app to meet user expectations. According to the release notes: **Workout type icon in the Workout app allows you to initiate a workout with one tap.** Voilà, that’s the solution people have been seeking. Now, the workout icon/label and the play button perform the same precise action: begin tracking your workout.

Tapping the icon from the list view still necessitates the full workout view to load. If you tap the workout icon quickly while the list is still visible, your tap will still be ignored. That’s another area where improvements can be made, but the watchOS 26.4 update represents a significant user experience enhancement from the behavior seen in watchOS 26.0 to 26.3.

## What went wrong and how Apple rectified it

Before watchOS 26.4, the Workout app displayed a scrollable list of workout type icons and labels. Naturally, users would expect that tapping the workout icon from the list would initiate the process. Instead, the complete workout layout had to load, and tapping the central workout type icon had no effect.

The design seemed more focused on preventing accidental workout starts. It may also encourage users to pause and examine the new layout while prompting them to tap the buttons in the four corners before beginning their workout. These are intended for adjusting Workout Views, Goals and Targets, Media, and Workout Buddy and Alerts. It wasn’t exactly tailored for speed or previously developed muscle memory.

Rather, a “Play” icon was the sole means of starting the workout. This already creates a confusing mix of metaphors since you’re logging a workout and not playing a session. Regardless, watchOS 26.4 resolves this tangled situation with the straightforward adjustment mentioned above.

Personally, I had become accustomed to the new behavior after transitioning from watchOS 26.0 to watchOS 26.3 since June. Still, I appreciate that Apple is responding to feedback and enhancing user experience. The new design still felt slower in the back of my mind. There was something about the placement of the bottom center play icon that made me want to scroll up, especially given that the center icon had no function.

Regardless, the aim should be to ensure a fantastic first run experience, rather than to adjust to a less intuitive system after repeated use. It’s encouraging to see this addressed in watchOS 26.4.

## Apple Watch update availability

watchOS 26.4 is currently available in beta as a release candidate. The final version is expected to be released next week.

### iPadOS 26.4 RC Launches for Pre-Release Testing

Apple has formally introduced the Release Candidate (RC) version of iPadOS 26.4 for evaluation, signaling that the public release is close. This RC build is meant to be the final iteration of the software set to be accessible to all users, implying it should be the most reliable and bug-free version to date.

#### Anticipations for iPadOS 26.4 RC

The release of the iPadOS 26.4 RC signifies that users can look forward to a polished experience, as Apple generally utilizes this phase to finalize the software. Although the RC is crafted to offer stability, there may still be certain user-facing alterations or features that remain under the radar. Observers and testers are encouraged to report any new findings.

Traditionally, the public release of the software occurs soon after the RC launch, typically within a week. Hence, users can expect the official deployment of iPadOS 26.4 by early next week, unless unforeseen complications necessitate an additional RC build.

#### Possibility of Further RC Releases

It is not unusual for Apple to release a subsequent RC build should any unforeseen bugs emerge during the testing process. Despite rigorous internal testing, specific problems might only surface when the software is operated on real devices. If an additional RC becomes essential, it may be released later this week or early next week, with the public launch to follow shortly thereafter.

#### Main Features of iPadOS 26.4

iPadOS 26.4 is set to be a major upgrade for iPad users, bringing several significant enhancements:

– **Apple Music Updates**: Users can anticipate various enhancements to the Apple Music app.
– **Enhanced Video Experience in Apple Podcasts**: The Podcasts app will include improvements aimed at delivering a superior video podcast experience.
– **Reintroduction of the Compact Tab Bar in Safari**: This feature will restore a more streamlined browsing experience.
– **More Features**: Additional improvements and modifications are expected, further enhancing the iPadOS experience.

#### Community Involvement

As users start to install the iPadOS 26.4 RC, feedback is welcomed. Users are encouraged to share their experiences and any new features they encounter in the comments section, promoting a community of shared knowledge and discoveries.

### Summary

The release of the iPadOS 26.4 RC signifies an exhilarating moment for iPad users, with numerous new features and enhancements on the way. As the public launch nears, excitement grows for the improvements that will soon be accessible to everyone.

### iOS 26.4 Release Candidate: Thrilling New Features and Upgrades

The initial release candidate for iOS 26.4 has been launched, bringing a wealth of new features and enhancements that elevate the user experience on iPhones. This update rolls out new emoji, AI-enhanced improvements in Apple Music, and assorted functionalities designed to boost usability and security.

#### Key Features in iOS 26.4

1. **Revamped Apple Music Interface**: The album and playlist displays in Apple Music have undergone a revitalized design, facilitating easier navigation and music discovery that is more intuitive and visually striking.

2. **AI-Driven “Playlist Playground”**: This groundbreaking feature harnesses artificial intelligence to craft personalized playlists tailored to user preferences and listening patterns, enriching the overall music journey.

3. **Personal Hotspot Data Tracking**: Users can now conveniently monitor data usage for each device linked to their personal hotspot, granting enhanced control over data consumption.

4. **Fresh Emoji Characters**: iOS 26.4 debuts eight new emoji characters, enabling users to articulate themselves in more varied and imaginative ways.

5. **Upgraded Security Features**: The update enables the Stolen Device Detection feature by default, assisting users in safeguarding their devices against theft.

6. **End-to-End Secured RCS Messaging**: Apple is piloting support for RCS messaging with end-to-end encryption, offering improved privacy for communications.

7. **Enhanced Video Podcast Functionality**: The Podcasts app will soon provide an upgraded experience for video podcasts, making it simpler for users to enjoy multimedia content.

8. **CarPlay Video Capability**: Development is underway for CarPlay video support, allowing users to view video content while utilizing CarPlay.

#### Additional Enhancements

Apple has showcased a total of 13 enhancements in the iOS 26.4 release notes, concentrating on boosting functionality and user experience across an array of applications and services.

#### Conclusion

The iOS 26.4 release candidate is filled with features that not only uplift the aesthetic and functional dimensions of the iPhone but also emphasize user security and personalization. As Apple persists in its innovation, users can anticipate a more cohesive and pleasurable experience with their devices.

Apple has launched the iOS 26.4 Release Candidate (RC) for developers and public beta testers, setting the stage for an official rollout anticipated later this month. This update introduces substantial upgrades, particularly aimed at enhancing the keyboard functionality on iPhones.

### iOS 26.4: Enhancements for iPhone Keyboards

A key aspect of iOS 26.4 is the resolution of a bug that created the illusion of keyboard characters being tapped without actually being added. This problem has affected Apple’s Auto-Correction capabilities, resulting in inaccuracies in text suggestions, notably when users type rapidly.

Numerous iPhone users have voiced their concerns about this keyboard issue across various online platforms, with a prominent discussion thread on Reddit. The malfunction mainly occurs during quick typing sessions, where the keyboard does not recognize specific keystrokes.

Apple had earlier implemented this keyboard remedy in a prior beta iteration of iOS 26.4, and initial user feedback has indicated significant enhancements. As the official launch nears, it will be intriguing to observe the broader community’s reaction to these improvements.

It is essential to note that the modifications in iOS 26.4 are unrelated to a viral video from last year, which depicted what some users thought to be a faulty keyboard. In that scenario, the user was not using Auto-Correction but instead the QuickPath (swipe-to-type) feature, which deliberately hides keyboard animations.

As users start to transition to iOS 26.4, input regarding the keyboard’s precision will be crucial in evaluating the success of these improvements.

# iOS 26.4: Anticipations for the Upcoming Update

iOS 26.4 is poised to be a major upgrade for iPhone users, introducing a variety of new features and improvements across multiple applications, such as Apple Music, Podcasts, and CarPlay. The public release is expected to happen next week, possibly as soon as March 23.

## Anticipated Release Date

Traditionally, Apple has launched its x.4 updates in March. Below are the release dates for prior versions:

– **iOS 18.4**: Monday, March 31
– **iOS 17.4**: Tuesday, March 5
– **iOS 16.4**: Monday, March 27

Based on this trend, iOS 26.4 is likely to be released in mid-to-late March. The release candidate (RC) for iOS 26.4 has already been provided to beta testers, suggesting that the final edition is nearing readiness for public distribution. If no further issues emerge, the public version could be launched soon after the RC, probably on March 23.

## New Features in iOS 26.4

In contrast to its forerunner, iOS 26.3, which had few new features, iOS 26.4 is brimming with enhancements that users can anticipate:

– **Apple Music**: Brings five new features, including the AI Playlist Playground tool, an updated design for albums and playlists, and concert details.

– **Apple Podcasts**: Features a revamped video experience, improving user interaction with video podcasts.

– **CarPlay**: Now accommodates AI chatbot applications and video playback, broadening its utility for drivers.

– **Health App**: Introduces new Sleep and Vitals data, offering users more detailed health monitoring.

– **Freeform**: Receives unique features specifically for Apple Creator Studio users.

– **Reminders**: Launches a new ‘Urgent’ smart list to aid in task prioritization.

– **Wallpaper Gallery**: Experiences a redesign, providing a more user-friendly interface.

Moreover, the iOS 26.4 beta has enabled users to test end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging, although this feature will not be accessible to all users until a subsequent update.

## Conclusion

As the launch of iOS 26.4 approaches, iPhone users can look forward to an abundance of new features aimed at enhancing their experience across various applications. With the release date on the horizon, anticipation grows around the advancements and innovations that will soon be accessible. Which features are you eagerly anticipating?

### macOS 26.4 Release Candidate: What to Anticipate

Following the recent launch of beta 4, Apple has now rolled out the macOS 26.4 Release Candidate. This update introduces a variety of new features and enhancements that users can anticipate.

#### Here’s Everything Fresh So Far

One of the most important modifications in macOS 26.4 is the introduction of a notification system for applications that depend on the Rosetta 2 framework to function on Apple Silicon. Users will be alerted that Rosetta 2 will soon be phased out, prompting developers to get ready for this change. Apple has previously announced that macOS 27 will be the final major version to support Rosetta 2.

Moreover, macOS 26.4 resolves the longstanding issue with the window resize pointer, ensuring that the cursor accurately depicts the window’s corner shape. The update also reinstates Safari’s compact tab view, which was eliminated in the previous version.

Another significant addition is the new Charge Limit option, enabling users to establish a limit on their Mac’s battery charge between 80% and 100%. This feature, which has seen popularity in third-party applications, is now available natively.

For creators, macOS 26.4 unveils exclusive features for Creator Studio subscribers within the Freeform app. These features include access to premium images in the Content Hub, the capability to upscale low-resolution images, and compatibility with OpenAI’s image-generating model.

Finally, the update incorporates new emoji choices, such as ballet dancers, distorted faces, and fight clouds.

#### How to Install the Latest Beta

To install the macOS Tahoe 26.4 Release Candidate, follow these instructions:

1. **Backup your Mac**.
2. Open **System Settings**.
3. Go to **General ⇾ Software Update**.
4. Click the ‘i’ icon next to **Beta Updates**.
5. From the dropdown menu in the top-right, select the **macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**.
6. Hit **Done**.

Stay tuned as we continue to investigate the code for more features and improvements in this beta release.

**Spotify Service Disruption: Users Face Account Downgrades and Access Problems**

On Wednesday, Spotify users experienced major difficulties with the streaming platform, starting around 12 p.m. PT. Numerous listeners encountered unanticipated downgrades to their accounts, with some subscribers of the Spotify Family plan being reverted to Spotify Basic. Individual Premium members also faced comparable downgrades, while Basic users found their accounts changed to Free, leading to ads disrupting their listening experience.

Spotify recognized the issues via a social media update, declaring, “We’re aware of some issues right now and are checking them out.” The company further detailed on its website that they had received reports of Basic plan users encountering advertisements and observing their accounts marked as Free on the mobile application, even though their account overview showed they remained Premium subscribers.

The extent of the outage seems to reach beyond just Basic plan users, impacting a wider array of subscribers. While Spotify endeavored to fix these problems, users became frustrated and began to explore other options for their music streaming requirements. For those thinking about making a switch, alternatives such as Apple Music are offered at $10.99 per month, along with possible free trial choices.

As of 1:30 p.m. ET, Spotify reported that the issues had been addressed, enabling users to regain access to their accounts and restore their original subscription statuses.

**Beta Testers: Release Candidate Versions of tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, and More Now Available**

The beta testing phase for Apple’s forthcoming software updates, encompassing tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and HomePod 26.4, is approaching its end. Apple has recently made available Release Candidate (RC) versions for these platforms, indicating that the final public release is close at hand.

### What to Expect from the RC Versions

The current beta testing phase has largely concentrated on rectifying bugs and enhancing performance, with only a few new features added in the latest updates. The RC versions are anticipated to maintain this focus, emphasizing internal refinements to ensure that the software is stable and prepared for a wide release.

While beta testers are on the lookout for new features, it is not unusual for certain modifications to remain unnoticed until Apple issues official release notes. These notes may uncover concealed updates or improvements that were not immediately visible during testing.

### Potential for Further Updates

There is a chance that Apple could issue revised RC builds later this week should any new issues arise in the current versions. Nevertheless, unless significant problems surface, the public launches for tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, and related platforms are expected within the upcoming week.

### Community Engagement

Beta testers are invited to share their observations regarding any new features or modifications present in the RC versions of watchOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, or tvOS 26.4. Community input can play a crucial role in pinpointing issues or enhancements that may not have been recorded.

### Conclusion

As the release of tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4 nears, users can anticipate greater performance and stability. Excitement mounts as the beta testing period comes to a close, setting the stage for the official launch of these updates.