Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### The Xfinity Data Breach

In late 2023, a major cybersecurity event transpired involving Xfinity, impacting the personal information of around 36 million clients. The breach was attributed to a flaw in a product utilized by Xfinity, supplied by Citrix, a software vendor.

On October 10, 2023, Citrix disclosed the vulnerability and issued a patch to remedy the issue. However, it was later revealed that unauthorized entry to Xfinity’s internal systems occurred between October 16 and October 19, 2023, prior to the patch being applied. The investigation indicated that hackers likely obtained sensitive data, which included usernames, hashed passwords, names, contact information, the last four digits of social security numbers, dates of birth, and responses to security questions.

Post-breach, Comcast informed affected customers and a class action lawsuit was filed, culminating in a settlement of $117.5 million.

### How to Claim Your Payout

Customers impacted are eligible to claim their portion of the settlement. Comcast has reached out to all affected users, providing them with a unique settlement member ID number, which is required for the claims process. If customers cannot find the notification email, they may utilize a lookup form to retrieve their ID.

To file a claim, customers can opt for a flat cash amount, estimated at $50, or they may present evidence of any out-of-pocket expenses and time lost to potentially request a larger sum. The ultimate payout will be determined by the total number of claims received.

For additional information and to file a claim, affected individuals can visit the official claim submission page.

As Apple shifts from IPS LCD displays to OLED technology, the timeline for the iPad Air’s integration of OLED remains ambiguous. Initial predictions indicated a launch could happen this year, but later information pointed towards a potential release in 2027 or later. Nevertheless, recent insights from the supply chain suggest that production strategies are now in motion, with a possible unveiling in the spring of next year, perhaps as soon as March.

The upcoming OLED iPad is likely to follow the launch of a new iPad mini, which is also expected to incorporate OLED technology. Reports indicate that the iPad mini will be the first to adopt OLED, and Apple is simultaneously developing a new water-resistant design for this device.

While the OLED upgrade for the iPad mini seems more imminent, the timeline for the iPad Air remains less defined, with some sources speculating it may not debut until 2027. However, a recent report from ET News indicates that Samsung is gearing up to produce OLED display panels specifically for the new iPad Air model. Supply chain sources suggest that Samsung Display is poised to commence mass production of these panels by the end of this year or early next year, coinciding with an expected release in the first half of the year, likely between March and May.

It is crucial to highlight that while the iPad Air will come with an OLED display, it might not match the specifications of the more advanced iPad Pro models. The OLED panel for the iPad Air is expected to have lower specifications compared to those found in the Pro series.

Currently, the M4 iPad Air sits between the entry-level model and the iPad Pro. The addition of an OLED display may bring it closer to the Pro tier, but it is anticipated that Apple will withhold certain features, such as ProMotion support, solely for its high-end models.

A recent video from the Veritasium YouTube channel uncovers a specific loophole that may enable someone to steal $10,000 from a locked iPhone, though the risk remains minimal for most users.

### Veritasium Video Showcases Specific Security Flaw First Revealed in 2021

Apple frequently publishes security updates for the iPhone, publicly documenting these changes. Nevertheless, the new Veritasium video brings attention to a particular vulnerability that has lingered since 2021 without resolution.

Professors Ioana Boureanu and Tom Chothia found that a locked iPhone can be tricked into processing an NFC payment through a series of specialized hacks. This technique involves misleading the iPhone into thinking that a payment terminal is a mass transit terminal using Apple’s ‘Express Transit’ feature. The video explains how this method bypasses multiple security protocols established by Apple, allowing for the potential withdrawal of $10,000 from the device.

The vulnerability only applies when a Visa card is set as the iPhone’s ‘Express Transit’ option in the Settings, and does not apply to Mastercard or other card issuers. Apple has stated that the problem arises from an issue with Visa.

Visa has guaranteed that its cardholders are covered by a zero liability policy, which would compensate for any potential losses incurred from the exploitation of this vulnerability. Nonetheless, the company characterized the vulnerability as “very unlikely” to materialize in everyday situations, despite its feasibility in a controlled setting.

For more information, you can view the complete video on Veritasium’s channel.

### Best iPhone Accessories

[Check out the top accessories for your iPhone to boost its functionality and protection.]

The repercussions of MacBook Neo continue to resonate throughout the PC sector this week.

As noted by The Verge, Microsoft has launched a new initiative called the “Microsoft College Offer.” This program allows college students in the US to receive 12 months of complimentary Microsoft 365 Premium and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate with the acquisition of an eligible PC, along with a complimentary custom Xbox controller.

According to a blog post, Microsoft states that the leading PC manufacturers have agreed to join in, including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. Microsoft Surface laptops are also included in this offer.

Typically, a year of Microsoft 365 Premium is priced at $19.99/month or $199.99/year, while Xbox Game Pass Ultimate costs $29.99. However, the Microsoft College Offer promotion is only applicable for new subscribers. If you have previously subscribed to either service, you cannot take advantage of this deal.

“Microsoft generally offers back-to-school promotions on laptops during the summer, but it’s uncommon to see the company initiate deals this early,” Tom Warren remarks. “The timing seems like a preemptive response to the $599 MacBook Neo and the $100 discount that Apple provides eligible students in the US.”

College life is overflowing in every conceivable way. Full schedules, overflowing inboxes, and high expectations. The pressure to maintain pace, remain productive, and always be “on” is significant. Windows is simplifying preparations for all that college entails – from job hunting and exam studying to game nights and leisure with peers. Starting today, eligible U.S. students can enjoy fantastic deals on select Windows 11 PCs, in addition to the Microsoft College Offer, providing over $500 in added value for free.

MacBook Neo represents an excellent value at its retail price of $599 — but even better for educational purchasers, starting at $499.

I don’t believe this “Microsoft College Offer” will significantly impact the market. Even if you attribute full value to the Microsoft 365 Premium and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions, it does little to affect the distinctions between these PCs and the MacBook Neo — both concerning overall quality and cost.

Moreover, the offering of free Microsoft 365 Premium will be irrelevant for certain college students. Numerous universities in the United States provide “free” access to students (or free access to an equivalent service they are mandated to use instead).

**Update on Apple vs. Jon Prosser Trade Secrets Lawsuit**

**Case Update**

As of April 15, 2026, a collaborative status report has been submitted by legal representatives of Apple and Michael Ramacciotti concerning the ongoing trade secrets litigation related to the disclosure of iOS 26 design information. The report underscores the advancements made in the case since the previous update in February.

In the most recent updates, Apple and Ramacciotti have persistently engaged in limited discovery. Apple has performed a forensic examination of an extra device supplied by Ramacciotti, who has agreed to enhance his interrogatory responses and is prepared to partake in a subsequent deposition once Apple concludes its third-party discovery, which includes the deposition of Jon Prosser.

**Prosser Update**

The circumstances for Jon Prosser appear to be more complex. After failing to meet a deadline to respond to the lawsuit, the court granted Apple’s request for a default judgment against him, resulting in the loss of his right to formally challenge the claims. Despite this situation, Prosser asserted that he has maintained communication with Apple throughout the litigation.

In the latest joint status report, Apple recognized that, even though a default judgment was issued against Prosser, he has been served with subpoenas for documents and depositions. However, Prosser has only partially complied with these demands, indicating he is in the process of securing legal representation and plans to contest the default judgment.

Apple has expressed annoyance over Prosser’s incomplete answers and has signaled intentions to file a motion in federal court in Ohio to compel his full compliance with the subpoenas.

**Recent Developments**

On April 13, 2026, Prosser’s attorney lodged a separate status report confirming that Prosser has acquired legal counsel. His attorney has requested that Apple consent to vacate the default judgment to prevent further legal actions, mentioning that Prosser has started responding to subpoenas.

Furthermore, Prosser’s attorney remarked that he was not mentioned in the joint status report submitted by Apple and Ramacciotti and intends to argue that Prosser’s reporting is safeguarded under the First Amendment.

The case continues to progress as both parties navigate the intricacies of discovery and legal representation.

**The Recent Ban on Wireless Routers and Netgear’s Conditional Acceptance**

In the previous month, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) implemented an unexpected prohibition on nearly all new wireless routers designed for home use throughout the United States. This decision identifies routers produced abroad as a national security threat, causing considerable unease within the technology sector and among consumers.

### The Wireless Router Prohibition

The FCC’s prohibition, announced in late March, claims that nearly all new wireless routers manufactured outside the U.S. present “unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States or the safety and security of United States individuals.” This extensive action has caused many manufacturers to rush to comply with the new regulations. The FCC noted that router producers could seek exemptions by proving that their devices satisfy safety norms, with a major focus on relocating manufacturing to the U.S. as a vital criterion for approval.

### Netgear’s Conditional Acceptance

In a significant turn of events, Netgear has lately obtained conditional acceptance from the FCC for a broad array of its products, including its well-known Nighthawk and Orbi router series, along with cable gateways and modems. This approval distinguishes Netgear as the first retail consumer router company to be recognized by the FCC as a reliable manufacturer.

Netgear conveyed its contentment with the acceptance, underscoring its dedication to security and the crucial role of the FCC’s actions in protecting consumer devices. The company mentioned, “This aligns with our security-first approach, and we believe the steps the FCC is taking will help guarantee the security of your digital front door and home networking products.”

### Vague Reasons for Acceptance

Despite the positive result for Netgear, the rationale behind the FCC’s choice remains unclear. Neither the FCC nor Netgear has offered a transparent explanation for why Netgear received an exemption, especially since the company’s devices are largely produced in China and Taiwan, akin to its rivals.

The FCC has only referenced that the Pentagon made a “specific determination” that Netgear’s products do not pose threats to U.S. national security. This is perplexing, considering that the initial reasoning for the wireless router ban was that foreign routers inherently pose a security risk. Furthermore, the FCC’s Conditional Acceptance procedure necessitates manufacturers to present a thorough plan to establish or enhance U.S. manufacturing, yet Netgear has not publicly committed to such a shift.

### Conclusion

The recent FCC decision and Netgear’s conditional acceptance have spurred numerous inquiries regarding national security, manufacturing practices, and the future of wireless technology in the U.S. As the situation progresses, it will be essential to observe how other manufacturers react to the ban and whether they can successfully navigate the approval process. The ramifications of this ruling could significantly impact the wireless networking environment in the United States.

**Adobe Firefly AI Assistant: Transforming Creative Processes**

Adobe has revealed the forthcoming public beta of its Firefly AI Assistant, an innovative tool aimed at optimizing workflows within its Creative Cloud applications. This cutting-edge assistant will enable users to perform multi-step tasks effortlessly from a unified interface, boosting productivity and creativity.

### AI-Enhanced Workflows Across Creative Cloud Applications

Firefly AI Assistant seeks to ease the user journey by allowing creators to engage with a variety of Adobe applications—such as Photoshop, Premiere, Express, Lightroom, and Illustrator—without the need for extensive expertise in each platform. Users can simply issue prompts, and the assistant will coordinate the required actions across these applications to achieve the target result.

During the public beta, users will gain access to a repository of pre-configured Creative Skills, such as touching up portrait images or creating content for social media. Furthermore, users can develop personalized skills crafted to their individual workflows. The assistant is built to adapt to personal preferences over time, learning aesthetic inclinations and preferred tools to provide more customized outcomes.

Firefly AI Assistant will additionally present contextual suggestions and inquiries based on user commands, facilitating immediate adjustments and modifications. For example, if a user edits a product photograph situated in a forest, the assistant might offer a slider to modify the surrounding greenery, streamlining intricate edits.

In addition, the integration with Frame.io will allow users to arrange materials for presentations, collaborate with team members, and automate the application of feedback, improving teamwork.

### New Video and Image Editing Features

Along with the announcement of Firefly AI Assistant, Adobe unveiled new functionalities in its video and image editing tools that creators can start using right away.

**Firefly Video Editor Improvements:**
– **Audio Enhancements:** The “Enhance Speech” feature, which refines dialogue, is now accessible in Firefly Video Editor, alongside tools designed to minimize noise and balance audio components.
– **Color Tweaks:** Creators can adjust visual features such as exposure and saturation using user-friendly sliders and one-click presets for rapid modifications.
– **Adobe Stock Integration:** Access to over 800 million licensed assets straight within the Firefly Video Editor workflow.

**Image Editing Toolset Enhancements:**
– **Precision Flow:** This function allows creators to produce multiple image variations from a single prompt, facilitating swift exploration of diverse results.
– **AI Markup:** Users can execute edits directly on images through various tools, providing precise manipulation of object positioning and lighting modifications.

### Conclusion

Adobe Firefly AI Assistant signifies a major leap in creative technology, vowing to boost the efficiency and effectiveness of creative workflows. With its capability to learn user inclinations and offer contextual support, it is poised to revolutionize the way creators engage with Adobe’s suite of applications. As the public beta draws near, additional details and demonstrations will be presented at the forthcoming Adobe Summit in April.

### The Influence of MacBook Neo: Perspectives from Apple Leaders

A month following the introduction of the MacBook Neo, initial feedback indicates that it has proven to be a considerable triumph for Apple. In a recent discussion with *Tom’s Guide*, Apple leaders John Ternus and Greg Joswiak expressed their views on the MacBook Neo, the firm’s previous errors, and the outlook on technology.

#### What Distinguishes MacBook Neo

John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of hardware engineering, underscored the distinctive features of the MacBook Neo compared to rivals within the same price bracket. He pointed out that numerous competing models are constructed from plastic and lack resilience, asserting, “You can literally flex them. They’re so cheap.” Ternus contrasted this with Apple’s methodology, which prioritizes delivering high value without sacrificing quality. He stated, “We never wanna ship junk… We wanna ship great products that have that Apple experience, have that Apple quality.”

The creation of the MacBook Neo involved utilizing Apple’s cutting-edge technologies, including Apple Silicon, and the vast knowledge acquired from years of developing Macs, iPads, and iPhones.

#### The Prospects of Spatial Computing

Greg Joswiak also touched upon the prospects of spatial computing, suggesting the inevitability of blending the digital and physical realms. He remarked, “There’s some inevitability to combining the digital and physical world… I can’t provide you with a timeline for when spatial becomes anything else, but you know it’s an inevitability.” This view aligns with Apple’s persistent initiatives to innovate and lead in technology.

#### Revisiting Past Mistakes

On the occasion of Apple’s 50th anniversary, the executives reflected on the company’s major shortcomings. Joswiak referenced the original MacBook Air, which, despite its legendary design, “didn’t sell very well.” He recognized that errors are part of the journey, articulating, “What you try to do is, when something doesn’t go right, you pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and figure out what are you going to do to change it?”

Ternus noted the tumultuous launch of Apple Maps as another substantial blunder. He characterized the initial difficulties as “ambitious” and “bumpy,” but stressed the team’s determination to enhance the service over time. “Apple Maps today is absolutely amazing,” he concluded, illustrating the potential for development and improvement even after a challenging beginning.

#### Conclusion

The MacBook Neo seems to be a hopeful addition to Apple’s portfolio, mirroring the company’s dedication to quality and innovation. As Apple persists in probing new realms in technology, the insights from Ternus and Joswiak offer a glimpse into the company’s philosophy of learning from past challenges and striving for excellence. For those keen on the complete interview, it is accessible on the *Tom’s Guide* website.

Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone, rumored to carry the name iPhone Ultra, is poised for a release this autumn. Below are six expected features of this premium device.

### Design: Book-style fold with titanium, crease-free display

The iPhone Ultra will boast a distinctive design, setting it apart from usual foldables. When fully opened, it will be broader than it is tall, adopting a book-style fold. The outer display will appear shorter and wider than earlier iPhone screens, while the inner display will mimic the dimensions and form of an iPad mini. Remarkably, the inner display is anticipated to be crease-free, representing a notable leap in foldable technology. The device will also draw design inspiration from the iPhone Air, featuring a titanium edge and an ultra-slim profile when opened. Color selections are rumored to be restricted to black and white.

### Displays: Unique sizes and orientations

The iPhone Ultra will come with two displays: an external screen and an internal display revealed when unfolded. The expected specifications are:
– Outer display: 5.3 to 5.5 inches
– Inner display: 7.6 to 7.8 inches

The outer screen will feature a broader aspect ratio, resembling an iPhone mini, while the inner screen will offer a more extensive viewing area akin to that of an iPad mini.

### Cameras: Two rear lenses, plus two front-facing

The iPhone Ultra is expected to have two rear cameras: a 48MP Main and a 48MP Ultra Wide. Users opting for the Ultra will forgo the Telephoto lens available in Pro models. Additionally, the device will possess two front-facing cameras, one for each display, likely utilizing the 18MP Center Stage camera introduced with the iPhone 17, designed in a hole-punch format.

### Software: iOS 27 multitasking features

iOS 27 is anticipated to bring new software functionalities exclusive to the iPhone Ultra. Significant upgrades include:
– Side-by-side apps for multitasking
– iPad-like app interfaces

While the device will not accommodate full windowing capabilities of iPadOS, it will incorporate various components from iPad software to improve user experience.

### Apple Silicon: A20 Pro chip, C2 cellular modem

The iPhone Ultra will be driven by the upcoming A20 Pro chip and C2 cellular modem, both of which are also expected in the iPhone 18 Pro. The A20 Pro chip is rumored to be a major enhancement, leveraging a 2-nanometer process and WMCM technology for better efficiency. It will feature 12GB of RAM with quicker LPDDR5 for improved performance. The C2 modem will substitute Qualcomm’s 5G modems, providing multiple advantages.

### Touch ID

Notably, the iPhone Ultra will not come with Face ID. Instead, Apple is reintroducing Touch ID, integrated into the power button, similar to the method used in the iPad Air and iPad mini. This choice is likely due to the device’s slender design, which restricts the space for Face ID components.

### iPhone Ultra pricing and wrap-up

The starting price for the iPhone Ultra is anticipated to be around $1,999 for the 256GB model, making it the priciest iPhone to date. By combining the functionalities of an iPhone and an iPad into a single device, Apple seeks to rationalize the elevated price point.

The iPhone Ultra is sparking considerable interest, leaving potential customers to ponder whether this groundbreaking device or another model will best fit their requirements.

# Future Apple Products: Anticipations for 2026

Apple has experienced a dynamic year filled with numerous product unveilings, but the anticipation continues. As we progress through 2026, various new Apple gadgets are rumored to be on the way. Here’s a detailed look at what’s anticipated.

## iPhone 18 Series, Featuring the First Foldable Variant

The iPhone 18 series is poised to enhance Apple’s top-tier smartphone collection. This year will bring the debut of the ultra-premium iPhone 18 series, although the entry-level iPhone 18 is forecasted to arrive in early 2027. The eagerly awaited iPhone Air 2 is also believed to be in development, although its release timeline is still unclear.

## New AirPods Pro and Apple Watch Variants

Even though the AirPods Pro 3 were launched just a few months ago, Apple is speculated to be readying another new release of AirPods Pro this year. Moreover, new iterations of the Apple Watch and Apple Watch Ultra are anticipated to launch this fall, enhancing the wearable tech portfolio.

## M5 Mac Studio, Mac Mini, and More, Along with M6 MacBook Pro

The Mac series is undergoing significant upgrades as well. Following the recent debuts of the MacBook Neo, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air, Apple is preparing to refresh its desktop lineup. Upcoming launches consist of:

– **M5 Mac Mini**: Featuring M5 and M5 Pro variants with limited alterations.
– **M5 Mac Studio**: Expected to incorporate the latest M5 Max and M5 Ultra processors.
– **M5 iMac**: Anticipated to arrive with freshly enhanced color choices.
– **M6 MacBook Pro**: Scheduled for a complete industrial overhaul, featuring an OLED display and touch support.

## New iPad and iPad Mini

Earlier this year, Apple unveiled a new iPad Air, but additional iPads are on the way. A new iPad mini with OLED technology and an updated base-model iPad are projected to launch before the conclusion of 2026, broadening the iPad lineup.

## Apple Home Offerings

Apple is also aiming to expand its Home product range. The company has been reportedly awaiting an updated version of Siri to be ready before launching new items. The details regarding these forthcoming Home products remain confidential, but they are expected to enhance the smart home environment.

## Potential Launch of Apple Glasses

In addition to the earlier mentioned products, there is speculation regarding the potential launch of Apple Glasses, possibly branded as Apple Vision. Although these smart glasses are not anticipated to be released until 2027, discussions about a potential announcement in 2026 are underway. Similar to previous product unveilings like the Apple Watch and Vision Pro, Apple may opt to introduce the glasses several months ahead of their consumer availability.

The glasses are believed to offer integration with the iPhone, AI features focused on Siri, built-in cameras, and more, marking a notable advancement into augmented reality for Apple.

## Summary

With an exciting array of new products expected in the upcoming months, Apple fans have much to anticipate. From the iPhone 18 series to groundbreaking new Mac models and the possible announcement of Apple Glasses, the outlook appears promising for Apple enthusiasts. Which forthcoming product are you most thrilled about?