Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Amazon is said to be in talks to purchase Globalstar, a key player in the satellite connectivity capabilities of Apple’s iPhone and Apple Watch. This possible acquisition is made more complex by Apple’s notable 20% ownership in Globalstar, which was assessed at around $400 million upon its acquisition in November 2024. Additionally, Apple invested $1.1 billion in upfront payments to improve Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure.

Since Apple’s investment, Globalstar has experienced a noteworthy rise in valuation, potentially increasing the worth of Apple’s share to about $1.1 billion, corresponding with its prepayment for services. At present, Apple leverages Globalstar’s technology for the Emergency SOS via satellite functionality on iPhone 14 and newer models, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 3. This feature is vital for users requiring a connection to emergency services when traditional cellular networks are not available.

Amazon’s pursuit of Globalstar fits into its larger plan to create a competitive satellite internet service, named Amazon Leo, which was previously known as Project Kuiper. This venture seeks to compete with SpaceX’s Starlink, which has already made major advancements in offering satellite internet access.

The discussions between Amazon and Apple underscore the intricacies of corporate acquisitions, especially when there are existing alliances and investments in play. As the satellite communication sector continues to progress, the results of these negotiations could significantly impact both corporations and their respective technologies.

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Hub for Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving realm of technology, keeping abreast of the latest news is essential, particularly for Apple fans. The **9to5Mac Daily** podcast acts as a trustworthy outlet for daily summaries of the most important developments affecting the Apple community. Accessible on numerous platforms, including [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), and [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), listeners can conveniently tune into the newest episodes and remain knowledgeable.

### What to Anticipate from 9to5Mac Daily

New episodes of **9to5Mac Daily** are produced every weekday, guaranteeing that subscribers obtain prompt updates on the most recent Apple news, product launches, software enhancements, and market perspectives. The podcast includes conversations on a range of subjects, appealing to both casual listeners and devoted Apple supporters.

Listeners can subscribe to the podcast via their chosen podcast player or through the [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and alternative platforms. This adaptability allows fans to select their preferred method for accessing their daily Apple news.

### Premium Content and Support

For those seeking to elevate their listening experience, **9to5Mac Daily Plus** provides a subscription option that grants access to ad-free episodes and additional content. Subscribers can directly support the podcast while enjoying a more seamless experience.

### Connect with the Community

The **9to5Mac Daily** community fosters listener interaction. Enthusiasts can share their opinions and feedback by contacting via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Moreover, listeners are encouraged to rate the podcast on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) to assist others in discovering the show.

### Final Thoughts

Whether you are an Apple enthusiast or simply want to stay updated on the latest in technology, **9to5Mac Daily** is a vital resource. With its captivating format and dedication to providing timely news, the podcast remains a favorite among listeners eager to keep up with the Apple landscape.

Apple has enhanced the Apple Sports app to accommodate the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to commence on June 11 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Here’s how to stay updated on your favorite teams.

## How to keep track of your favorite teams on Apple Sports

[Apple Sports](https://apple.co/3YsbLUu) allows users to monitor live scores and statistics for their preferred teams and sports directly from Live Activities on the Lock Screen and Dynamic Island.

Spanning various sports from racing to tennis, soccer to basketball and baseball, the app now caters to multiple sports leagues across several regions, including the U.S., Mexico, Europe, and Brazil.

Given the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, it was inevitable that Apple would incorporate support for the event, which will unite 48 countries across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

As noted by [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/01/apple-sports-2026-fifa-world-cup/), the 2026 FIFA World Cup is currently featured on Apple Sports.

To keep track of the tournament, search for “FIFA World Cup 2026” in the Search area, then tap the star button to add it to your “My Leagues” section.

Alternatively, you can follow teams separately in the “My Teams” section. Lastly, you can manage both “My Leagues” and “My Teams” by tapping the “Edit” button located in the menu at the top right corner of the app.

As the matches begin on June 11, Apple Sports will automatically showcase a Live Activity with real-time details about the game. You’ll also have the ability to track the groups and playoffs as the tournament unfolds, culminating in the final match on July 19.

[Download Apple Sports on the App Store](https://apple.co/3YsbLUu)

Italy’s Agenzia Nazionale Stampa Associata (ANSA) reports that Meta has sent out warnings to around 200 users who were deceived into downloading a counterfeit version of WhatsApp. Here are the specifics.

As per the report, Meta alerted about 200 iPhone and Android users, the majority of whom are Italians, who fell victim to a social engineering scheme that led them to install a harmful fake version of WhatsApp.

WhatsApp stated to ANSA:

“Our security team detected approximately 200 users, mainly located in Italy, who we suspect might have downloaded this unofficial and malicious client. We have logged them out and cautioned them regarding the privacy and security hazards. […] We believe this was an attempt at social engineering aimed at a select group of users, intended to persuade them to install harmful software that imitated WhatsApp, likely to obtain access to their devices.”

WhatsApp further confirmed it has taken action against the Italian spyware company Asigint, which is governed by Sio Spa and is thought to be responsible for the attack.

Currently, there are no details regarding the identities of the victims or any data (if any) that might have been compromised. WhatsApp reported that users were logged out of their accounts once the malicious application was identified, and they were also notified.

It remains uncertain how the users were deceived into installing the fraudulent version of WhatsApp. According to la Repubblica, the app’s distribution occurred “not via official sources such as the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store, but through less regulated third-party channels.”

La Repubblica does not detail what those “third-party channels” were, making it impossible to ascertain whether this utilized older methods such as certificate-based installations or newer sideloading options introduced due to the DMA.

In conclusion, WhatsApp stressed that this was not linked to a vulnerability within its platform, but rather involved the utilization of an unofficial WhatsApp client.

# AirPods Max 2: An In-Depth Comparison with Earlier Versions

The highly anticipated AirPods Max 2 have launched, bringing an array of enhancements over the prior models. This article offers a thorough comparison of the distinctions between AirPods Max 2 and the earlier AirPods Max versions, including both the USB-C and Lightning iterations.

## H2 vs H1: Beyond a Simple ‘Chip Upgrade’

AirPods Max 2 and the previous iterations exhibit numerous similarities, such as design, weight, battery life (20 hours), and the Smart Case. Nevertheless, the arrival of the H2 chip signifies a major internal enhancement that improves the overall user experience.

While the H1 chip in older models largely concentrated on device speed, the H2 chip in AirPods Max 2 enables multiple upgrades, including superior audio quality, refined Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and new functionalities that were not present before.

**Note**: The earlier AirPods Max models with USB-C and Lightning are virtually the same, so comparisons will be relevant to both.

## AirPods Max 2 Audio Quality: Upgraded Amplifier, Enhanced ANC and Transparency

Sound quality is vital for headphones, and AirPods Max 2 ensures heightened audio excellence. As per Apple, the new high dynamic range amplifier yields purer audio while preserving the distinctive sound of AirPods Max. Users can anticipate improved instrument localization, more precise bass output, and natural mids and highs.

For ANC, AirPods Max 2 delivers up to 1.5 times stronger Active Noise Cancellation compared to previous versions, presenting a persuasive reason for many users to upgrade. The transparency mode has also seen enhancements, resulting in a more authentic listening experience through a new digital signal processing algorithm fine-tuned for the H2 chip.

## New H2 Features Exclusive to AirPods Max 2

With the H2 chip, AirPods Max 2 rolls out several new functionalities that weren’t accessible in past models:

– **Adaptive Audio**: Automatically adjusts ANC and Transparency levels based on surroundings.
– **Conversation Awareness**: Diminishes content volume and minimizes background noise when conversing with someone close.
– **Live Translation**: Eases communication across languages in real-time.
– **Voice Isolation**: Prioritizes voice during calls while eliminating ambient noise.
– **Camera Remote**: Permits users to take photos and videos remotely via the Digital Crown.
– **Studio-Quality Audio Recording**: Accommodates high-quality audio recording for creators.
– **Loud Sound Reduction**: Shields users from excessive environmental noise without compromising sound quality.
– **Personalized Volume**: Adjusts the listening experience based on user preferences over time.
– **Siri Interactions**: Users can reply to Siri announcements using head gestures.

These functionalities align with those available in other Apple devices that feature the H2 chip, rendering AirPods Max 2 a more flexible choice.

## AirPods Max 2 vs AirPods Max: Minor Details and Conclusion

A few additional distinctions are noteworthy:

– Upgrading from the original AirPods Max with Lightning to AirPods Max 2 introduces USB-C compatibility and 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio via a wired connection.
– AirPods Max 2 supports Bluetooth 5.3, while earlier models are restricted to Bluetooth 5.0.

In conclusion, AirPods Max 2 offers a variety of thrilling enhancements over both the original Lightning model and the USB-C variant. With improved audio quality, upgraded ANC and Transparency, and new features like Adaptive Audio and Live Translation, there are numerous incentives to contemplate an upgrade.

You can acquire AirPods Max 2 for a reduced price of $529, down from $549.

Will you upgrade to AirPods Max 2? If so, are you currently using the Lightning or USB-C version? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple has included the standard M5 MacBook Pro in its refurbished store at a reduced price. Nevertheless, the adjustment in base storage from last month signifies that the value against new discounted devices may not be as attractive as typical.

## Apple’s 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro refurb features a 512GB SSD

When Apple launched the M5 MacBook Pro in October, the 14-inch device was initially offered with 512GB of storage priced at $1599. Last month, Apple updated the hardware and increased the base price. The base storage was modified to 1TB, with the starting price rising to $1699. Although the starting price for the M5 MacBook Pro went up, the pricing for the 1TB version was lower than before when set as an upgrade.

Apple’s refurbished M5 MacBook Pro comes with 512GB of storage and is discounted from the original selling price of $1599 by $240, reducing the price to $1359. The new 1TB variant of the same device, sold brand new on Amazon, is currently listed for $1549. That price is still above the refurb price, but it offers significant savings compared to Apple’s new price, especially for having double the storage of the refurb model.

## A16 iPad refurbished pricing

Apple has similarly added the iPad (A16) to its refurbished store, applying a $50 discount to the base model, aligning it with the pricing of a brand new model on Amazon. Additionally, Apple’s refurbished iPad models come with options for storage and cellular upgrades.

# Commemorating 50 Years of Apple: Unique Wallpapers by Basic Apple Guy

This year, Apple Inc. marks a remarkable milestone, celebrating 50 years since its inception. In honor of this special occasion, Apple fans and product users can spruce up their devices with a distinctive collection of wallpapers featuring designs dedicated to Apple’s 50th anniversary, crafted by the skilled Basic Apple Guy.

## Wallpapers Featuring Apple’s 50th Anniversary Designs

For those seeking new Apple-themed wallpapers, Basic Apple Guy’s website serves as a haven for innovative designs. Recently, he attracted attention with his delightful Little Finder Guy wallpapers, but his portfolio also boasts a special collection inspired by the artwork commemorating Apple’s 50th anniversary.

You can conveniently access and download these wallpapers by visiting [Basic Apple Guy’s website](https://basicappleguy.com/basicappleblog/apple50). The wallpapers are thoughtfully categorized at the end of the blog post titled ‘50 Years of Thinking Different.’

### Characteristics of the Wallpapers

The anniversary wallpapers are offered in various sizes customized for different devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Users can pick from options with both dark and light backgrounds, ensuring there’s a design to fit every taste.

While many had anticipated official wallpaper releases from Apple to celebrate this significant occasion, Basic Apple Guy’s artistic contributions provide an equally enjoyable way to honor the legacy of the tech giant.

### Customizing Your Apple Device

If you’re looking to give your favorite Apple product a celebratory flair in recognition of this milestone, these elegantly designed wallpapers are an outstanding choice. They not only pay tribute to Apple’s inventive spirit but also enable users to personalize their devices in a significant manner.

Do you have any preferred Apple-related wallpapers for your iPhone, iPad, or Mac? Feel free to share your opinions and favorites in the comments section below.

### Final Thoughts

As Apple commemorates its 50th anniversary, the chance to adorn devices with special wallpapers from Basic Apple Guy is an ideal way to partake in the celebrations. Whether you’re a long-time Apple supporter or a recent adopter, these wallpapers offer a beautiful way to honor a company that has profoundly impacted technology and design over the last fifty years.

Apple is intensifying its promotion of the charming mini-Finder character developed for the MacBook Neo campaign. Catch the ads here.

## Apple intensifies focus on Little Finder Guy, internet celebrates

Observing Apple’s campaign for the latest MacBook Neo has been quite fascinating. Targeted primarily at younger audiences with limited exposure to Mac, it also stands out as one of Apple’s most entertaining campaigns in recent memory.

Among the amusingly distracting TikTok clips from the initial round of ads, Apple held a livestream showcasing a delightful character that quickly earned the nickname Little Finder Guy from online users.

In the ensuing days, a plethora of 3D models, 3D-printed versions (available for home printing), wallpapers, and other creative works featuring Little Finder Guy emerged.

Now, Apple has unveiled a fresh batch of videos on TikTok where Little Finder Guy either takes center stage or makes brief appearances, communicating to Gen Z audiences that its tools are, like, totally useful or something.

View them below:

### Get Festive!

### DND

### Garageband

### Talking to Yourself Has Never Been Better

### Glamour

### Stacks

Apple also appears to be curating a profile collage with new videos featuring Little Finder Guy, indicating that additional videos may be on the way.

What are your thoughts on Little Finder Guy? Share your opinions in the comments.

### Worth Checking Out on Amazon

### Apple’s 50th Anniversary Celebration: A Path Through Innovation

Apple Inc. is commemorating its 50th anniversary, signifying a half-century of creativity and impact in the technology industry. As part of the festivities, a compelling video has been unveiled by *The Wall Street Journal*, featuring a heartfelt exploration of Apple’s legacy with CEO Tim Cook.

In this video, Cook strolls down memory lane, revisiting uncommon prototypes and archival resources that even he had not seen before. “Much of this I’ve encountered for the first time while preparing for the 50th anniversary,” Cook noted, emphasizing the gravity of the event.

The video highlights a wide array of historical items, including a patent for the Apple II, early prototypes of landmark products like the iPod, iPhone, and Apple Watch. These snapshots from the past depict the transformation of Apple’s product design and technological progress throughout the years.

A key moment in the conversation is Cook’s reflection on the debut of the iPod. He recalls the groundbreaking effect it had, enabling users to carry a thousand songs in their pockets—a remarkable achievement for that era. “I thought that was quite significant back then, because I remember being in the car and thinking it was impressive to have a CD changer that could hold five CDs,” Cook said. He underscored the hurdles Apple encountered in expanding its supply chain to satisfy the rising demand, which skyrocketed to millions of units just months after the iPod’s introduction.

In a personal anecdote, Cook revealed that the first song he played on his iPod was “Hey Jude” by The Beatles, illustrating the cultural significance of music and technology fused together.

The video acts not just as a reflection of Apple’s journey but also as a tribute to the company’s lasting legacy in shaping the technology realm. It offers a refreshing perspective on interviews with Cook, giving viewers a mix of nostalgia and insight into the company’s pioneering essence.

For those keen to delve into this intriguing journey through Apple’s history, the complete video is accessible for viewing, granting a distinct outlook on the milestones that have characterized the company over the last fifty years.

**The Evolution of Aluminum: Apple’s Distinctive Material**

Aluminum, formerly viewed as an inexpensive commodity predominantly utilized in common items like beverage cans and kitchen wraps, experienced a significant transformation when Apple chose it as its distinctive material. This change commenced in 2003 with the launch of the 12” and 17” PowerBook G4s, signaling the start of a new chapter in consumer electronics where aluminum became linked with luxury and cutting-edge design.

### The Transition from Titanium to Aluminum

Prior to embracing aluminum, Apple had tested titanium as a high-end material, particularly in the PowerBook G4 Titanium released in 2001. However, due to the material’s drawbacks, such as a finish that wore off quickly, Apple pursued other options. In a crucial announcement, Steve Jobs revealed the PowerBook G4 models, declaring, “We built it out of a new material…an aircraft grade aluminum alloy.” This choice not only offered a sleek and robust finish but also enabled lightweight designs, facilitating the creation of larger laptops.

### Broadening the Aluminum Heritage

After the triumph of the PowerBook G4, Apple broadened its aluminum usage throughout its product range. The launch of the all-aluminum iMac in 2007 highlighted this commitment, with Jobs underscoring aluminum’s resilience and recyclability. By the year’s conclusion, the iPod Classic also incorporated aluminum, reinforcing its importance within Apple’s design philosophy.

In 2008, Apple unveiled the legendary unibody MacBook, a design that demonstrated the strength and adaptability of aluminum. This advancement led to the retirement of plastic MacBooks, solidifying aluminum’s role in Apple’s future.

### Aluminum in Style and Utility

With the debut of the Apple Watch, Apple reaffirmed aluminum’s premium qualities. The company showcased specific alloys to market the aluminum sport model as both stylish and robust. Jony Ive, in marketing materials, characterized aluminum as “naturally strong and lightweight,” enhancing its allure in the fashion accessory domain.

The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, introduced simultaneously with the Apple Watch, featured 6000 series aluminum; however, it was the later iPhone 6s and 6s Plus that highlighted the 7000 series aluminum to tackle durability issues, especially following the bendgate incident. Apple’s advertising stressed the aerospace-quality of the material, which has remained a distinguishing feature of their flagship products, including the latest iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

### Ecological Impact and Sustainability

Apple’s dedication to aluminum has also produced notable environmental gains. The company has increasingly prioritized sustainability, with numerous products now crafted from 100% recycled aluminum. This approach not only minimizes waste but also fosters a self-sustaining supply chain, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

### Conclusion

Apple’s thoughtful choice to adopt aluminum has reshaped public perceptions of the material, transforming it from a throwaway commodity into an emblem of excellence and innovation. This transition has not only improved the aesthetics and longevity of Apple products but has also made a positive impact on environmental sustainability. As Apple persists in its quest for innovation, aluminum will remain a fundamental aspect of its design philosophy, ensuring it will likely be a key characteristic of the brand for the foreseeable future.