Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

The iPhone 18 Pro has entered the test production phase ahead of its expected rollout in September, according to a trusted source. This progress signifies that Apple is edging closer to finalizing its design and gearing up for large-scale production.

As reported in a post from Fixed Focus Digital on Weibo, production for the iPhone 18 Pro has started, and the materials utilized in the device remain largely unchanged from earlier models. Test production is a vital stage where Apple’s assembly partners strive to pinpoint any possible issues before mass production kicks off. This phase usually takes place once all design choices are locked in.

However, a recent update from Bloomberg hints that Apple might still be weighing one element: the color selections for the iPhone 18 Pro. There are signs that Apple is contemplating the introduction of a deep red hue to its array, potentially alongside the previously favored orange variant. The choice of color is important, as it could influence the marketing and attractiveness of the device at its release.

If Apple plans to include the red color option at launch, a decision would normally need to be reached by this time. Still, there are a few ways to align the differing reports. One possibility is that Apple is evaluating the performance of the red color through the production stages. Another avenue could be the company’s intention to roll out the red option at a later date, similar to past occasions when Apple has introduced new colors to existing models.

As the launch date nears, the anticipation surrounding the iPhone 18 Pro continues to rise, with consumers eagerly awaiting the unveiling of new features and design aspects by Apple. The potential inclusion of a red color option could further boost the device’s attractiveness, making it a point of discussion among fans and technology aficionados alike.

**Acme Weather: A Fresh Take on Weather Prediction**

The developers of the popular Dark Sky weather app have introduced a new iPhone application named Acme Weather, designed to confront the inherent unpredictability of weather forecasting. In contrast to conventional weather apps that deliver a singular forecast, Acme Weather embraces the variability of weather by providing several forecast scenarios.

### Background: The Legacy of Dark Sky

Dark Sky was celebrated for its highly localized, immediate weather updates and cultivated a devoted user base before being purchased by Apple in March 2020. After its acquisition, Dark Sky was merged into Apple’s native Weather app, resulting in its eventual termination in January 2023. The Dark Sky team, however, aimed to develop a new platform that would confront the drawbacks they noted in existing weather applications.

### Key Features of Acme Weather

**Alternative Forecasts**
The unique feature of Acme Weather is its “Alternative Forecasts.” This idea arises from the recognition that weather predictions are seldom 100% precise. Co-creator Adam Grossman highlights that the app not only supplies a primary forecast but also offers alternate outcomes that illustrate the spectrum of possible weather scenarios. This methodology enables users to grasp the reliability of the forecast and equips them for varying weather conditions.

**Community Reporting**
Acme Weather integrates a community reporting element, allowing users to report real-time weather conditions from their areas. This crowdsourced information boosts the accuracy of the app and offers a wider view of current weather occurrences.

**Comprehensive Weather Maps**
The app features intricate maps for various weather phenomena, including radar, lightning, precipitation totals, and temperature differences. This visual representation helps users comprehend intricate weather patterns.

**Robust Notifications**
Acme Weather provides extensive notification features, informing users about upcoming weather shifts, severe weather alerts, and even local occurrences like rain or rainbow appearances. This functionality ensures that users stay updated on essential weather changes.

### User Experience and Accessibility

Acme Weather is crafted to present intricate weather data in a straightforward and user-friendly manner. The app condenses vast amounts of information into a digestible interface, facilitating users in interpreting multiple forecasts at once. This stands in contrast to numerous apps that deliver a single forecast, which can frequently be daunting.

### Availability and Pricing

Acme Weather is presently available for iPhone users, with plans for a future Android version. The app is offered at $25 annually, with a two-week free trial accessible for new users. It can be acquired from the App Store.

### Conclusion

Acme Weather signifies a major advancement in weather forecasting applications, emphasizing transparency and user empowerment through its novel approach to uncertainty. By delivering multiple forecasts and community-sourced insights, it seeks to enrich users’ comprehension of weather patterns and enhance their readiness for shifting conditions.

**Microsoft’s OneDrive for Mac: A Thorough Overhaul for a Genuine Experience**

Microsoft has frequently faced scrutiny regarding its strategy for transferring Windows applications to macOS, which often leads to applications that feel out of place and do not integrate smoothly with the native Mac environment. OneDrive, the cloud storage platform, has been a notable instance of this predicament. Nevertheless, Microsoft has recently recognized these deficiencies and has embarked on a substantial redesign of the OneDrive app for Mac, aiming to establish a more genuine experience for its users.

### The Urgency for Transformation

Traditionally, Microsoft’s Mac application team has been seen as performing only the essentials when modifying Windows applications for macOS. This has resulted in user interfaces that do not align with Mac’s aesthetic and a lack of compatibility with macOS features. User feedback emphasized the necessity for a more unified and visually engaging design that reflects the Mac user experience.

### The Liquid Glass Transformation

In response to user input, Microsoft has entirely reconstructed the OneDrive app for Mac. The latest version unveils a “Liquid Glass” aesthetic, which resonates with the visual style of macOS 26 and later. This redesign goes beyond mere appearance; it also improves functionality and user-friendliness.

The refreshed OneDrive Activity Center, which appears when users interact with the OneDrive icon in the menu bar, features a sleek interface that adopts the Swift UI design language. This alteration simplifies the process for users to monitor sync status and manage their files, offering a more instinctive experience.

### Notable Features of the Revamped OneDrive App

1. **Mac-First Interaction**: The redesigned OneDrive Activity Center is tailored specifically for Mac users, providing a neat and contemporary interface that integrates perfectly within the macOS framework.

2. **Native Dialogs**: The application now incorporates Mac-native dialogs that reflect the recognizable aesthetic of macOS 26, ensuring uniformity across applications.

3. **Accessibility Enhancements**: The upgraded OneDrive app accommodates Mac accessibility features, such as VoiceOver and Full Keyboard Access, making it more accommodating for all users.

4. **Seamless Updates**: The new version is currently being introduced in beta and will automatically update for all users shortly, guaranteeing that everyone gains from the improvements.

### Final Thoughts

Microsoft’s dedication to enhancing OneDrive for Mac signifies a crucial move toward developing a more cohesive and user-centric experience for Mac users. By addressing earlier criticisms and concentrating on a design that feels intrinsic to macOS, Microsoft is not only augmenting the functionality of OneDrive but also reinforcing its commitment to user satisfaction. As the rollout progresses, users can anticipate a more refined and effective cloud storage solution that meets their expectations of a Mac application.

### Deciding Between the New Budget MacBook and MacBook Air

With the upcoming release of the new budget MacBook, consumers seeking a portable Mac will soon have three choices: the MacBook, the MacBook Air, and the MacBook Pro. This article is intended to assist prospective buyers who find themselves at a crossroads regarding performance needs, particularly those who seek more than just basic functionality but do not require the extensive capabilities offered by a MacBook Pro.

#### Evaluating User Requirements

For numerous users, especially those involved in light activities such as emailing, web surfing, and document creation, the new MacBook will likely be adequate. The choice for these users typically hinges on aesthetic considerations, including the colors on offer. However, for users with more intense demands—such as budding photographers, occasional 4K video editors, or musicians working with multitrack audio—selecting between the MacBook and MacBook Air requires a more refined analysis.

#### Performance Evaluation: M1 vs. A18 Pro

The new MacBook will be driven by the A18 Pro chip, which has been likened to the M1 chip found in previous MacBook Air models. The M1 chip has garnered acclaim for its performance and energy efficiency, setting a lofty benchmark for Apple’s silicon.

– **Single-Core Performance**:
– M1: 2,369
– A18 Pro: 3,409

The A18 Pro surpasses the M1 in single-core tasks, which is advantageous for applications that depend on single-thread performance.

– **Multi-Core Performance**:
– M1: 8,576
– A18 Pro: 8,492

In terms of multi-core performance, both chips are quite similar, suggesting that for multi-threaded applications, users are unlikely to perceive a meaningful difference.

Overall, benchmark results indicate that although the A18 Pro presents some benefits, particularly in single-core performance, the variances might not be significant enough to persuade all users.

#### Is M1 Performance Still Adequate?

Many users may question whether the M1 performance remains sufficient in 2026, especially with the emergence of newer chips. A personal case study demonstrates that the M1 MacBook Air can efficiently handle tasks such as photo editing and 4K video editing. The author, who evaluated an M1 MacBook Air, discovered it competent enough to substitute for a more robust MacBook Pro during travel, even with video editing anticipated.

#### RAM Factors

One significant difference between the forthcoming MacBook and the MacBook Air is RAM options. The new MacBook will feature 8GB of RAM due to the limitations posed by the A18 Pro chip, while the M1 MacBook Air can be configured with 16GB. While 8GB may be adequate for many users, those who operate multiple applications at once might find this restriction noteworthy.

#### Conclusion

As the new budget MacBook enters the marketplace, prospective buyers must consider their specific needs in relation to the capabilities of both the MacBook and MacBook Air. For users with basic demands, the MacBook is an appealing choice. However, for those engaged in more intensive tasks, the MacBook Air, with its extra RAM and established performance, may continue to offer an edge. In the end, the choice will rely on individual usage scenarios and preferences, but the arrival of the MacBook certainly adds complexity to the decision-making process regarding these three Mac models.

The US Supreme Court announced on Friday that the majority of the import tariffs imposed by the Trump administration last year were unlawful. Trump’s reaction to this development now puts Apple in a more difficult situation than it was previously.

While Apple’s lobbying had led to nearly all its products being exempted from the earlier tariffs, Trump has introduced new ones that will once again include them.

### A Brief Summary

Last year featured a tariff narrative that seemed almost fictional. It began on February 1 when Trump enacted sweeping 10% tariffs on all goods brought in from China, in addition to the product-specific tariffs already established. This encompassed most of Apple’s offerings, resulting in either the company or its customers dealing with billions of dollars annually in extra expenses.

In the following two months, there was a swift escalation of reciprocal tariffs between the US and China, culminating in an astonishing peak rate of 145%. Following advocacy from Apple CEO Tim Cook, Trump subsequently exempted several product categories that encompassed all of the company’s items. Negotiations between the US and China eventually led to a reduction of the additional tariff rate down to 10%.

Although this seemed to wrap up the narrative from Apple’s standpoint, the situation has now shifted.

### Supreme Court Overturns Tariffs

Trump had asserted that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act granted him the authority to impose tariffs without congressional consent. Several major corporations contested this and took the case to court.

On Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court decided that this law did not empower Trump to impose new taxes, rendering the tariffs illegal.

### Apple Impacted by New Tariffs

Nonetheless, the White House remains persistent. Just a day following the ruling, Trump referenced an alternative statute claiming it provides him with the authority to impose tariffs. He declared a blanket 10% tariff on all imports from every country, and later that same day stated that he would be raising these to 15%.

Since the latest announcement pertains to nearly all product categories, it will once again affect Apple products.

### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

This issue is not likely to remain permanent. Apple will once more advocate for its product categories to be exempt, and companies are likely to contest the legal foundation of Trump’s asserted new powers.

However, it will still generate unwanted uncertainty for US firms like Apple that have their products produced abroad. Once again, they will be unaware of their actual manufacturing costs until the matter is settled at an indeterminate future date.

**Apple Music 5.2 Beta: New Features and Improvements**

Following the initial iOS 26.4 preview, Apple Music 5.2 has launched its beta version, featuring several thrilling new attributes designed to enhance the user experience. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the new additions in this update.

### 1. Playlist Playground

A prominent feature in Apple Music 5.2 is the launch of the **Playlist Playground**, which employs generative AI to generate playlists based on user inputs. This feature is accessible from the upper right corner of the Library tab, enabling users to create a playlist in moments by merely providing a concept.

The interface is user-friendly, with the top section enabling users to manually create playlists, while the lower section presents prompts for “New Playlist Ideas” and “Suggested Songs.” This dual feature serves both individuals who enjoy a hands-on method and those seeking quick, AI-generated suggestions.

### 2. Overhauled Albums and Playlists Interface

The update also introduces a major overhaul to the albums and playlists interface. The revamped layout showcases **full-page artwork**, enhancing the visual appeal by extending the themed background to include the track list and additional suggestions.

Notable changes in the interface consist of:
– A **centered Play button** for improved accessibility.
– The **Shuffle button** has transitioned from a pill shape to a circular icon, now situated on the left side.
– The **Download button** is found on the opposite side, accompanied by a **Share menu** in the corner.

These adjustments particularly enhance one-handed usage, making navigation more intuitive.

### 3. Upcoming Concerts Feature

Another significant addition is the **“Upcoming Concerts” badge** on artist pages. This feature simplifies the process of finding concert information, with a dedicated section for “All Upcoming Concerts” placed below the Top Videos carousel. This enhancement ensures that users stay informed about their favorite artists and promotes engagement with live music events.

### Availability

Apple Music 5.2 is now in beta, with users able to enroll in the beta program via the Google Play Store. The stable release of this update is anticipated to coincide with the rollout of iOS 26.4.

### Conclusion

With features like Playlist Playground, a revamped interface, and the Upcoming Concerts badge, Apple Music 5.2 aims to deliver a more interactive and user-centered experience. As the beta advances, users can anticipate additional improvements that will further enhance their music listening journey.

# Boosting Efficiency with Visual Intelligence in iOS 26 and Beyond

Apple’s Visual Intelligence has undergone substantial advancements, especially with the rollout of iOS 26. Originally confined to Camera Control, this functionality now encompasses screenshots, offering users improved capabilities that facilitate daily activities. Recent updates have rolled out three primary features: the capacity to swiftly create Calendar events, search for akin images, and engage with ChatGPT concerning screenshot content. These upgrades have already shown to be advantageous, yet the opportunity for additional enhancements exists, especially with the incorporation of Reminders.

## Fresh Features in iOS 26

With the introduction of iOS 26, Apple has made considerable progress in Visual Intelligence, particularly regarding how users manipulate screenshots. The capability to generate Calendar events straight from a screenshot has revolutionized the scheduling and appointment management for many users. Furthermore, the function allowing users to search for similar images is especially beneficial for shopping, aiding in the quick and efficient discovery of products. The addition of ChatGPT facilitates a conversational method to comprehend and utilize screenshot content, adding a dimension of interactivity that enriches user experience.

## The Argument for Reminders Integration

As we look towards iOS 27, there is a compelling argument for the integration of Reminders within Visual Intelligence. This feature could radically change how users handle tasks and information. For example, during research, users could capture a screenshot of pertinent information and transform it into a Reminder, acting as a digital bookmarking system. This would simplify the task of tracking crucial details and deadlines.

Additionally, users frequently receive text messages asking for reminders regarding various tasks. The capacity to screenshot these discussions and convert them into Reminders would reduce the burden of memorizing every detail, thereby making the process more streamlined. Nevertheless, the execution of this feature would necessitate advanced analytical abilities to accurately discern the context and content of the requested reminders.

## Possible Applications

The merging of Reminders with Visual Intelligence could also expand into Camera Control. Users could snap pictures of items or notes and create reminders based on these images. This capability would not only boost productivity but also provide a harmonious way to visually manage tasks and information.

## Summary

Apple’s Visual Intelligence has already achieved notable enhancements with iOS 26, and the prospects for future growth are vast. By embedding Reminders into this feature, Apple could offer users a robust tool for more effectively managing their daily tasks and information. As technology continues to advance, the opportunities for enhancing productivity through intelligent functionalities like Visual Intelligence are limitless.

**Apple’s Upcoming Special Experience Event on March 4th: What to Anticipate**

Recently, Apple revealed a distinctive experience scheduled to occur in multiple cities across the globe on March 4th. Although this event is not expected to adhere to the conventional structure of an Apple keynote, it is projected to introduce a minimum of five new products, as indicated by Bloomberg.

Mark Gurman of Bloomberg states that the event will take place over three days, starting on Monday, March 2nd, and culminating with the in-person experience on March 4th. This format hints at a series of press releases and potentially launch videos, deviating from the usual keynote format.

### Anticipated Launches

Even without a standard keynote, the event is set to be thrilling, with at least five products likely to make their debut, covering hardware, software, and chips. Possible announcements may include:

1. **Affordable MacBook**: Gurman suggests that a new affordable MacBook is highly probable, particularly since the rumored color options coincide with the visuals in Apple’s official invitation.

2. **Mac Studio and Studio Display**: Although these items are on the agenda, Gurman implies that unveiling both at this event might be excessive.

3. **iPhone 16e**: An update to the iPhone series is expected, with the iPhone 16e being a strong contender.

4. **M3 iPad Air**: The M3 iPad Air is also projected to receive an upgrade soon, especially given its limited availability at Apple Stores.

5. **M4 MacBook Air and M4 Pro/Max MacBook Pro**: Reports indicate that these models are experiencing low supply, suggesting that updates could be forthcoming.

In addition to hardware, Gurman mentions that software and chips might also be included in the announcements, indicating that the total count of new products could exceed five.

As the tech community eagerly looks forward to this event, it is evident that Apple’s March 4th experience will act as an exhilarating launchpad for 2026, highlighting the company’s latest advancements and upgrades.

# iPhone 18 Pro: Exciting New Color Speculations

The iPhone 18 Pro is still a few months away from its official launch, yet speculation surrounding its features and color selections is already creating excitement among Apple fans. One of the most fascinating possibilities is the reveal of a red version of the iPhone 18 Pro, a color that many have wished for years. Conversely, the forthcoming iPhone Fold is anticipated to feature a more muted color selection.

## iPhone 18 Pro in Red

As per Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is contemplating a new ‘deep red’ color choice for the iPhone 18 Pro. This comes after the company’s shift to an all-aluminum unibody design with the iPhone 17 Pro, enabling more flexibility in color selections. Gurman emphasizes the popularity of the current Cosmic Orange shade, especially in markets like China. He theorizes that Apple might opt to offer both colors, despite their closeness on the color spectrum.

> “Given the success of orange, I wouldn’t be shocked if the company maintains that option and simply adds the red as an extra selection,” Gurman remarked. “However, red and orange might be a bit too similar on the color spectrum to have both.”

For those who have been yearning for red iPhones ever since the iPhone 14 was phased out in 2022, this information is especially thrilling. Gurman also brought up other color rumors, including purple and brown, indicating they might be variations of the red theme.

## New iPhone Fold Colors

In contrast to the lively hues speculated for the iPhone 18 Pro, the iPhone Fold is expected to sport a more reserved color palette. Gurman states that Apple is likely to shy away from flashy colors for this device, instead favoring classic tones reminiscent of the early iPhone models, such as dark gray or black, along with shades of white or light silver.

> “That would imply reverting back to the options Apple utilized in the initial phases of the iPhone,” Gurman mentioned. “We’re set to see how this all unfolds in September.”

This strategy may stem from the challenges related to producing a foldable device, prompting Apple to simplify the color choices to ease manufacturing.

## Conclusion

As excitement grows for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Fold, the possible addition of a red color choice for the iPhone 18 Pro has ignited enthusiasm among fans. Meanwhile, the more conventional color selections for the iPhone Fold reflect Apple’s careful strategy regarding its inaugural foldable device. Whether consumers will be drawn to the striking new colors of the iPhone 18 Pro or the classic shades of the iPhone Fold remains to be determined.

**MOFT’s Latest MagSafe Wallet Featuring Find My Integration: An In-Depth Review**

Initially revealed at CES 2025, the MOFT MagSafe wallet with a kickstand has officially launched, introducing an exciting feature: Find My integration. After multiple delays, this groundbreaking product is now ready for purchase, providing users with enhanced usability and convenience.

### Main Attributes of the MOFT MagSafe Wallet

The MOFT MagSafe wallet has attracted interest for various reasons:

1. **Premium Material**: Made from vegan leather, the wallet not only boasts a luxurious feel but also retains a slim design, making it simple to carry.

2. **Kickstand Feature**: The integrated kickstand enables users to prop their phones for hands-free viewing, or to securely grip the device while holding it.

3. **Card Storage**: The wallet can accommodate up to three cards; however, depending on the cards’ thickness, it is likely to comfortably hold two.

### New Features with Find My Integration

The updated version of the MOFT wallet keeps all the cherished features of its earlier model while introducing Find My support. This feature enables users to track their wallet via Apple’s Find My network, simplifying its recovery if lost. The wallet is equipped with a built-in speaker that can reach volumes of up to 70dB, ensuring it is audible during searches.

A standout feature of this wallet is its charging capabilities. Unlike other Find My wallets that depend on specific cables, the MOFT wallet allows for wireless charging and integrates MagSafe, making the recharging process more straightforward.

### Battery Life and Aesthetics

As per MOFT, a complete charge of the wallet can last for six months. Despite containing a battery and a wireless charging coil, the wallet preserves its sleek and low-profile appearance, ensuring it remains suitable for daily use.

### Cost and Availability

The new Trackable Snap On wallet is priced at $49.99 and can be purchased from MOFT. It is offered in four attractive colors: Jet Black, Misty Cove, Blackberry, and Terracotta, with the latter likely to pair beautifully with the orange iPhone 17 Pro.

### Final Thoughts

The MOFT MagSafe wallet with Find My integration signifies a substantial leap in mobile accessory innovation. With its blend of style, functionality, and cutting-edge tracking features, it stands out as an excellent option for anyone seeking to elevate their mobile experience.