Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple has recently introduced its newest significant software updates, encompassing iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, macOS 26.4, and additional versions. In conjunction with these public launches, fresh builds of the 26.4 updates have been released for beta testers.

### New Builds for Beta Testers

For users operating the beta editions of iOS 26.4, macOS 26.4, or other associated updates, a new build is now ready for installation. The updates for beta testers feature:

– **iOS 26.4 (Build 23E246)**
– **iPadOS 26.4 (Build 23E246)**
– **macOS 26.4 (Build 25E246)**
– **watchOS 26.4 (Build 23T240)**
– **tvOS 26.4 (Build 23L243)**
– **visionOS 26.4 (Build 23O247)**

These builds align with the versions made available to the public, and any modifications from the earlier release candidate (RC) builds are projected to be slight. Beta testers may not perceive notable differences, but the public release versions are expected to have fewer bugs in total.

### User Feedback

Apple invites users to provide their insights regarding the new 26.4 releases, encouraging feedback on any modifications or enhancements noticed.

### Conclusion

With the rollout of iOS 26.4 and its respective versions, Apple continues to advance its software ecosystem, offering users new features and enhancements while also accommodating beta testers with refreshed builds.

### Withings BeamO: A Portable 4-in-1 Health Scanner

Two years back, Withings introduced BeamO, a multi-functional device crafted to sync smoothly with Apple Health. As of now, Apple has commenced the sale of this groundbreaking “portable 4-in-1 health scanner” for the first time. Withings refers to BeamO as a “mini-clinic” that delivers immediate, medical-grade insights into vital health indicators such as body temperature, heart activity, and lung performance.

#### Features of the Withings BeamO Health Scanner

Apple’s product page showcases seven primary features of the Withings BeamO health scanner:

1. **Contactless Thermometer**: The gadget employs cutting-edge technology to pinpoint the temporal artery, allowing for swift and precise temperature assessments suitable for individuals of all ages.

2. **Electrocardiogram (ECG)**: BeamO is capable of capturing a 30-second ECG to identify irregularities like Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib). Users can opt to have their ECG reviewed by a cardiologist within 24 hours.

3. **Integrated Stethoscope and Pulse Oximeter**: These functionalities enable users to track oxygen saturation levels and listen to lung sounds, making it especially beneficial for those with asthma, COPD, or managing respiratory illnesses.

4. **Portability**: The lightweight nature of BeamO guarantees it is always prepared for health evaluations, whether at home or during travel.

5. **Multi-User Capability**: The device can accommodate up to 8 users with automatic detection, making it perfect for families, caregivers, and kids.

6. **Health Reporting**: Users can conveniently create and dispatch health reports to their physicians with a single tap or stream real-time measurements during teleconsultations via HealthLink.

7. **Data Syncing**: BeamO connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to the Withings App and Apple Health, ensuring that all health information, trends, and medication reminders are securely archived and readily accessible.

#### Availability and Pricing

The Withings BeamO health scanner is offered exclusively online, meaning it will not be available in physical Apple Store locations. Currently, Amazon lists the Withings BeamO for $249.99, while Apple’s price stands at $299.95.

In closing, the Withings BeamO health scanner signifies a major leap in personal health monitoring, merging various diagnostic functionalities into one portable device that connects with established health platforms like Apple Health.

Apple has recently introduced iOS 26.4 along with associated updates for users on the newest operating systems. In addition to this primary release, Apple has also launched updates for its earlier software versions, such as iOS 18.7.7, macOS 15.7.5, macOS 14.8.5, iPadOS 18.7.7, watchOS 8.8.2, and watchOS 5.3.10.

### iOS 18.7.7 and Additional OS Updates Center on Security Enhancements

For Apple device users, new software updates are now accessible for installation. The main updates include iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS 26.4, which offer an array of enhancements and features. Nevertheless, even those with older operating systems can take advantage of the most recent updates.

Reports indicate that updates for versions prior to iOS 26 focus on security enhancements. Apple’s release notes highlight that these updates are vital for protecting devices against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Thus, users operating iOS or iPadOS 18, macOS Sonoma or Sequoia, or watchOS 8 or 5 are urged to apply these updates to secure their devices.

### Significance of Updating

Maintaining your device updated is crucial not just for accessing new features but also for ensuring security. The updates issued today are particularly aimed at resolving security weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. By upgrading to the latest versions, users can protect their personal data and boost the overall performance of their devices.

### Conclusion

If you are still utilizing any of the older software versions listed, it is recommended to contemplate updating to the latest OS 26. The updates not only bolster security but also enhance the user experience with fresh features and functionality. Users are advised to regularly check for updates and install them without delay to keep their devices secure and efficient.

**The iPhone’s Future: Obstacles for the All-Screen Concept**

With the 20th anniversary of the iPhone on the horizon, anticipation grows surrounding the expected debut of a unique ‘iPhone 20’ model. This iteration is rumored to showcase an innovative all-screen design, a concept long advocated by former Apple design head Jony Ive. Nevertheless, recent revelations from a credible insider hint that this bold design could encounter substantial challenges.

### The All-Screen Vision

The iPhone 20 is projected to dispense with all cutouts, presenting a unified display that envelops the device, reducing bezels to form a streamlined, continuous surface. This design aligns with the avant-garde aspirations that have been prevalent in the tech dialogue for years, embodying the zenith of smartphone design.

### Present Obstacles

In spite of the enthusiasm, leaker Fixed Focus Digital has conveyed that Apple is still “quite a distance away” from achieving a display devoid of cutouts. In a recent update on Weibo, the leaker highlighted that Apple has been facing difficulties in the advancement of under-display technology, which is essential for placing Face ID components and the front camera underneath the screen.

Consequently, it appears that Apple may redirect its focus towards more gradual enhancements, such as minimizing the size of the Dynamic Island—a feature that has already sparked debate among users.

### The Path Forward

Even though there remains time for Apple to innovate and possibly surmount these technological obstacles prior to the anticipated release of the iPhone 20 in roughly 18 months, the latest findings indicate that consumers should moderate their expectations regarding the all-screen concept. Rather, it may be more plausible to expect ongoing improvements to existing features instead of a total redesign.

### Conclusion

The iPhone 20 symbolizes a significant landmark in Apple’s journey, and while the aspiration for an all-screen device continues to thrive, the road to its realization is riddled with challenges. As advancements occur, the tech community will be keenly observing to determine if Apple can fulfill its bold vision or if users will need to wait longer for the genuine all-screen iPhone.

### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break: Thrilling Discounts on Apple Merchandise

In this edition of the 9to5Toys Lunch Break, we bring attention to notable price cuts on Apple merchandise, such as the latest M5 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro versions, along with the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Studio Display XDR.

#### Apple’s Latest 24GB 13-inch M5 MacBook Air with 1TB SSD

Amazon has unveiled an impressive price reduction on the 13-inch M5 MacBook Air, equipped with 24GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. This model is currently listed at **$1,415.50**, a savings of **$83.50** from its usual price of **$1,499**. This sets a new record low for this configuration, presenting a fantastic opportunity for anyone in search of a powerful yet portable laptop.

Various configurations of the M5 MacBook Air are also experiencing price drops:
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB**: $1,049 (Reg. $1,099)
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: $1,249 (Reg. $1,299)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB**: $1,249 (Reg. $1,299)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: $1,449 (Reg. $1,499)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 24GB/1TB**: $1,650 (Reg. $1,699)

#### 24GB/1TB M5 MacBook Pro Offer

For those desiring a more powerful choice, the **14-inch M5 MacBook Pro** with 24GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD is now available for **$1,799**, representing a **$200 reduction** from its initial launch price. This model comes in Space Black and is a fantastic option for users requiring additional power without the premium cost of the M5 Pro.

#### Discounts on Apple Watch Ultra 3

In addition to laptops, there are substantial discounts on the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Best Buy is providing open-box models of the **Apple Watch Ultra 3** featuring a black Titanium case and Milanese Loop for **$707.99**, which is **$191 less** than the retail price of **$899**. This offer is among the best we’ve encountered for this model, making it appealing for smartwatch fans.

#### Apple’s 2026 Studio Display XDR

Amazon has also rolled out discounts on the new **2026 Studio Display XDR** models. The standard version with a Tilt-adjustable stand is now priced at **$1,499**, showing a **$100 reduction**. The premium XDR variant with the VESA Mount Adapter is set at **$3,199**, also reflecting a **$100 decrease**.

#### Overview of Offers

– **Apple Studio Display**: $1,499 (Reg. $1,599)
– **Apple Studio Display XDR**: $3,199 (Reg. $3,299)
– **Apple Watch Series 11 Titanium models**: $649 (Reg. $799)

These offers showcase some of the most remarkable prices on sought-after Apple products, making it an excellent time for customers to invest in new technology.

**Flighty Introduces Significant Update with Enhanced Airport Intelligence Feature**

The widely-used flight tracking application Flighty has rolled out an important update, presenting a new ‘Airport Intelligence’ feature that improves the user experience in both the app and online. This update, found in Flighty version 4.8, is designed to give users a better insight into possible flight delays and airport conditions.

### Airport Intelligence: An In-Depth Snapshot

The Airport Intelligence feature utilizes sophisticated algorithms and real-time information to observe various elements that can influence flight schedules. As noted in the app’s release documentation, Flighty monitors disruptions like severe weather, traffic congestion, and staffing challenges. This data is analyzed with the help of artificial intelligence to provide live updates on airport conditions around the globe, extending beyond just the United States.

For those who are unfamiliar with Flighty, the newly launched web dashboard at [flighty.com/airports](https://flighty.com/airports) enables users to check the latest global airport statuses.

### Main Features of Airport Intelligence

1. **Airport Status Map**: Users can navigate a worldwide map showcasing airport delays, view the most affected airports, and obtain live statistics or daily delay counts.

2. **Airport Disruptions List**: Flighty offers comprehensive details regarding the status of airports relevant to users’ flights, including precise weather-related delay insights based on METAR and TAF reports.

3. **Meltdown Forecasting**: This feature enables users to anticipate when delays may commence and when they are expected to resolve, providing a Delay Trend for enhanced planning.

4. **Runway Regulars**: Users can keep track of how often they or their friends have frequented specific airports, adding a social dynamic to the app.

5. **Track Your Favorite Airports**: Users can highlight their preferred airports and receive notifications about significant disruptions.

6. **Additional Airport Features**:
– Flight boards for up-to-the-minute updates
– Departure and arrival performance metrics on an hourly basis
– Details on the most affected airlines and routes
– Official flight regulations and extensive airport statistics
– Access to official airport websites and navigational directions

### Conclusion

The introduction of Flighty’s Airport Intelligence feature marks a major leap forward in flight tracking technology, equipping users with the resources they require to effectively manage potential disruptions. Whether through the app or online, Flighty aims to improve the travel experience by providing timely and pertinent information.

For those eager to discover these new features, Flighty 4.8 is now available for download on the App Store.

**Apple Maps Launches Advertising: A New Chapter for Local Enterprises**

This summer, Apple plans to unveil a major update to Apple Maps in the US and Canada by integrating advertising features. This development is a part of the larger Apple Business platform, which seeks to equip local enterprises with tools to boost their presence and interaction within the Apple ecosystem.

### How the Advertisements Will Function and Privacy Issues

The advertising capability is crafted to help local enterprises connect with potential customers at key points during their search and exploration activities on Apple Maps. When users type in queries like “coffee shop” or “hardware store,” promoted results will surface at the top of the search responses, ensuring they remain pertinent to the user’s inquiry.

Moreover, a new Suggested Places feature will present recommendations based on trending destinations, recent searches, and contextual insights. Apple has highlighted that every advertisement will be distinctly labeled, enhancing transparency for users.

Privacy is a fundamental aspect of Apple’s advertising approach. The advertisements will not be associated with users’ Apple Accounts, and personal information will stay on the user’s device, with no data collection or storage by Apple. This strategy guarantees that user interactions with advertisements are not disclosed to advertisers or external parties.

### Brand Management Throughout the Apple Ecosystem

The Apple Business platform goes beyond advertising, encompassing brand management tools that were previously available in Apple Business Connect. This cohesive integration enables enterprises to maintain their brand presence effortlessly across Apple services.

Notable features include:

– **Brand Profiles and Place Cards**: Enterprises can personalize their brand name, logo, and key details to uphold uniform branding. Dynamic place cards allow for the addition of images, operating hours, and other pertinent information visible in Maps and Safari.

– **Showcases and Custom Actions**: Enterprises can promote offers, new products, or seasonal items directly on their Maps listings. Custom actions can guide customers to specific websites or apps for ordering or bookings.

– **Branded Communications**: Improved branding visibility in the Mail app’s sender icon and tracked orders in Apple Wallet helps to boost brand recognition.

– **Tap to Pay on iPhone**: Enterprises can showcase their logo and name on the payment screen during transactions made with Apple Pay, enhancing trust during the checkout experience.

– **Location Insights**: Apple will offer analytics on how customers find and engage with enterprises on Maps, encompassing search data, views, and interaction with custom actions.

To engage, enterprises need to claim their location on Maps via the new Apple Business portal, launching on April 14. Once the advertising platform is operational, businesses will gain access to an automated system for ad creation via Apple Business.

Current Apple Ads advertisers and agencies will have the opportunity to schedule ads through their existing accounts, providing for improved customization and targeting capabilities.

### Conclusion

The launch of advertising in Apple Maps marks a significant strategic change for Apple, establishing a new revenue source while boosting the visibility of local enterprises. By streamlining the advertising purchasing process and enforcing rigorous privacy measures, Apple seeks to offer a competitive advantage over rival platforms, allowing businesses to effectively connect with their target markets without sacrificing user privacy. This initiative reflects the successful advertising framework observed in Google Maps, potentially reshaping how users discover local enterprises.

**Apple Ventures into the Enterprise Email and Calendar Sector: A Fresh Competitor**

For more than ten years, the enterprise email and calendar sector has been primarily ruled by Microsoft and Google. Typically, emerging companies secure their domain and promptly subscribe to either Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace. Nevertheless, with the introduction of the new Apple Business platform, Apple is now entering this fierce competition, providing a complimentary business email service intended to rival the dominant players.

### Completely Hosted Email and Personalized Domains

Apple’s latest provision encompasses fully integrated email, calendar, and directory functions accessible via the Apple Business portal for as many as 500 users. Enterprises can use their own custom domain name or acquire a new one directly from Apple. Each user is allotted 5GB of complimentary iCloud storage, with opportunities for IT teams to upgrade storage to levels up to 2TB, commencing at just $0.99 per user each month.

These services aim to boost operational efficiency from the beginning. Apple incorporates vital scheduling features such as calendar delegation, which is essential for busy executives and their assistants, along with a built-in company directory. This directory simplifies connections between employees and provides customized contact cards available across devices.

Additionally, Apple’s new business email is compatible with any IMAP-supporting email client, while its calendar service accommodates any CalDAV-compliant calendar application. This compatibility guarantees smooth integration across Android and Windows systems.

### Aiming at New Ventures and Startups

From an IT standpoint, Apple is clearly concentrating on drawing in new companies and startups. For entrepreneurs acquiring Apple devices like MacBooks and iPhones, the company now provides a thorough suite of services, including device management software, custom domains, hosted email, and corporate calendars—all within one ecosystem.

While it is improbable that numerous established companies entrenched in Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 will make an immediate transition, Apple is ready to grow its offerings over time. A considerable benefit of Apple’s new service is that it is free. In contrast, Google eliminated its no-cost @yourdomain.com email service in 2022. As Google and Microsoft steadily raise their prices, Apple’s no-cost business email remains an attractive option featured within macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.

### Focus on Open Standards

A significant technical component of Apple’s announcement is its dedication to upholding open standards for email and calendar services. This strategy means that businesses do not need to completely revamp their systems, enabling users on Android or Windows to continue utilizing their preferred platforms without interruption.

In conclusion, Apple’s foray into the enterprise email and calendar sector marks a pivotal change in the landscape, offering a free and integrated solution that could entice new businesses while challenging the established dominance of Microsoft and Google. As Apple further develops its offerings, it may transform how companies manage email and calendars in the future.

**Apple’s Integrated Business Solution: A Revolutionary Shift for Companies**

On April 14, Apple will reveal a major change in its strategy towards the enterprise sector with the introduction of a comprehensive platform called Apple Business. This endeavor consolidates existing business tools into a singular, user-friendly interface, optimizing operations for businesses globally. Significantly, Apple will provide integrated mobile device management (MDM) capabilities at no charge to companies in more than 200 countries, signaling a crucial transition in the way Apple assists enterprise customers.

Traditionally, Apple’s business tools were scattered across several services, such as Apple Business Manager for application deployments, Apple Business Essentials for managing devices, and Apple Business Connect for brand recognition on Apple Maps. The new Apple Business platform will combine these features, enabling administrators to oversee device and personnel management, brand governance, and support from a unified dashboard.

### Device and Personnel Management

The incorporation of device management within the Apple Business platform highlights Apple’s dedication to ensuring effective management of business devices. The platform introduces “Blueprints,” which simplify the configuration of devices with pre-established settings right from the start.

IT teams will gain advantages from improved directory management capabilities, including a new array of custom roles that grant detailed control over device allocation and app oversight without the need for complete administrator privileges. Moreover, the Admin API will be enhanced to allow better custom reporting.

For end-users, Apple Business will streamline the creation of Managed Apple Accounts via identity providers such as Google Workspace and Microsoft Entra ID. A new accompanying application, expected to debut later this year, will allow employees to install workplace applications, access a corporate directory, and seek assistance, boosting mobility and productivity.

While the primary features of the platform are offered for free, Apple will present paid iCloud storage upgrades, beginning at $0.99 per user per month for extra storage beyond the initial 5GB. AppleCare+ for Business will also be available, offering device protection at competitive rates.

### Brand Governance

Apple Business aims to enable organizations to uphold a uniform brand presence throughout the Apple ecosystem. This encompasses personalized branding for Tap to Pay on iPhone and managed Maps place cards, ensuring that customer interactions reflect the company’s brand.

Collaboration between IT and marketing teams will be enhanced through the unified portal, fostering a seamless customer experience during purchases and searches. Additionally, Apple will offer location insights to assist businesses in understanding customer interaction with their brand.

### Conclusion

The launch of Apple Business signifies a major leap forward in Apple’s enterprise approach, making the management of business tools easier and removing the financial hurdle for essential device management. Although it may not substitute extensive device management systems for larger firms, it provides a straightforward, zero-touch option for smaller IT departments.

Beyond the core features, Apple has alluded to forthcoming functionalities, including fully hosted email services for corporate domains and a new advertising platform within Apple Maps, further increasing the value for enterprises.

As Apple continues to innovate and respond to the demands of businesses, the cohesive Apple Business platform is set to become a vital resource for organizations eager to streamline their operations and elevate their brand visibility in the digital realm.

Apple TV has recently achieved notable acclaim within the entertainment sector, marked by its Oscar victory for “F1 The Movie.” This triumph continues with the revelation of the 2026 BAFTA TV nominees, where Apple TV has made a striking impression, attaining nominations for three of its well-liked series.

The BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) TV awards represent a distinguished occasion in the UK, honoring excellence in television. Although Apple operates as an American entity, it has successfully participated in BAFTA’s ‘International’ TV series category, enabling its programs to shine on this world stage.

This year, the contenders for the best ‘International’ series include:

– The Bear
– The Diplomat
– Pluribus
– Severance
– The Studio
– The White Lotus

Significantly, three of these nominees are from Apple TV, highlighting the platform’s increasing influence and quality within the television arena. Conversely, “The Pitt,” a series that has previously surpassed Apple’s “Severance” and “Pluribus” in US awards, failed to secure any nominations in the International category.

The BAFTA ceremony is set for May 10, and Apple TV seems well-positioned to win the International award this year. With a subscription fee of $12.99 per month, Apple TV is available to a broad audience, and prospective subscribers can also benefit from discounts through the Apple One bundle.

As Apple TV consistently expands its catalog and earns recognition, it cements its role as a key player in the global entertainment landscape.