Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

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Apple has unveiled the second iOS 26.5 beta for developers. The prior beta brought a fresh splash screen that hinted at the impending introduction of advertisements in Apple Maps.

### iOS 26.5 Features and Changes

Although there are no AI features powered by Gemini, the iOS 26.5 update presents several modifications. The most noticeable new addition in iOS 26.5 is found within Maps. The new “Suggested Places” function has now been integrated into the search feature in Apple Maps.

Additionally, Apple continues to experiment with end-to-end encryption for RCS in beta. Specifically in Europe, Apple is assessing the capability to deliver Live Activities to third-party devices.

iOS 26.5 may also enable monthly payments for annual subscriptions at a reduced rate with a commitment.

Take a look at 9to5Mac’s compilation of new features in iOS 26.5 to discover some of the lesser changes identified thus far.

**macOS 26.5 Developer Beta 3: What’s New and How to Install**

Apple has just released macOS 26.5 developer beta 3, bypassing the public beta 2 version. This update arrives in advance of the expected WWDC26 and maintains a relatively subdued update cycle for Apple’s operating systems.

### A Relatively Quiet Update Cycle Ahead of WWDC26

The prior beta, macOS 26.5 beta 2, debuted without major changes, reflecting the absence of significant updates in beta 1. The most noteworthy change across Apple’s platforms in the recent beta releases is a new popup in Apple Maps on iOS, paving the way for the introduction of advertisements on the platform. This is in stark contrast to the earlier macOS 26.4, which introduced several new features, such as a battery charge limit and a compact tab view in Safari.

The current macOS 26.5 public beta 3 is accessible with build version 25F5058e, and users are prompted to investigate the system for any pertinent updates.

### How to Install the New Beta

For those keen on testing out the macOS Tahoe 26.5 developer beta 3, adhere to these instructions:

1. **Backup your Mac**: Safeguard your data before moving forward.
2. **Open System Settings**: Access the settings on your Mac.
3. **Go to General ⇾ Software Update**: Navigate to the software update section.
4. **Click the ‘i’ icon next to Beta Updates**: This will enable you to manage beta updates.
5. **Select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**: Choose this option from the dropdown menu.
6. **Hit ‘Done’**: Confirm your selection to initiate the update process.

Users are encouraged to relay any changes or observations from the new beta in the comments section.

### Conclusion

As macOS 26.5 developer beta 3 becomes available, users can anticipate discovering its features and updates. While the current cycle has been less eventful compared to earlier versions, the excitement for WWDC26 continues to rise.

### Beta 3 Released for iPadOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and Additional Platforms

Apple has just launched developer beta 3 for its range of platforms, which includes iPadOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, among others. This update is part of Apple’s continuous development process, equipping developers with the newest tools and features to trial on their devices.

#### Updates Available

The most recent beta updates can be found for the following platforms:

– iOS 26.5
– iPadOS 26.5
– macOS Tahoe 26.5
– watchOS 26.5
– tvOS 26.5
– visionOS 26.5
– HomePod 26.5

These updates are anticipated to be made available to all users in the upcoming weeks, leading to the much-anticipated announcement of iOS 27 and its associated updates at the WWDC 2026 event set for June 8.

#### Enhancements and Modifications

Generally, Apple’s x.5 updates are not filled with numerous new features, as they act as a precursor to significant OS launches. Nonetheless, the 26.5 series has brought some notable improvements:

– **Apple Maps**: A newly introduced ‘Suggested Places’ feature enhances navigation and location recommendations.
– **Messages App**: The application now features end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, improving user privacy and security.

As developers delve into the beta 3 updates, any newly identified features or adjustments will be communicated with the community.

#### Feedback from the Community

Users and developers are invited to share their experiences and any new discoveries regarding iPadOS 26.5 or other beta 3 updates in the comments section, promoting a collaborative space for feedback and discussion.

Keep an eye out for more updates as Apple progresses in refining its software offerings in anticipation of the next major release.

OpenAI has verified that both ChatGPT and Codex are presently facing major challenges, impacting numerous users’ capability to access these services. Reports from Downdetector indicate that the issues commenced between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. ET, with users indicating struggles in logging in, searching, and using voice mode, among other features.

The official OpenAI system status page confirms these persistent problems, stating, “Users unable to load ChatGPT and Codex.” The organization is actively looking into the issue but has not yet offered a timeline for resolution or additional updates at this point.

The initial acknowledgment of the problem from OpenAI was made at 10:35 a.m., signaling that they were investigating the concern. A following update at 11:13 a.m. reiterated that the investigation was still in progress.

As users continue to encounter difficulties with both platforms, OpenAI has urged individuals facing issues to share their experiences in the comments. The situation is under close observation, and updates will be shared as they become available.

### Apple’s 2026 MacBook Pro and iPad Air Promotions: Unmatched Savings

The newest offers on Apple products are creating a buzz, especially with the 2026 collection of MacBook Pros and iPad Airs. As shoppers search for the best deals, notable price reductions have been noted across several models, making this the perfect moment for tech lovers and professionals to invest in top-tier devices.

#### 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro: Unprecedented Price

The **2026 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro** has recently experienced a discount of **$200**, lowering its price to **$2,499** from the standard price of **$2,699**. This version comes equipped with a powerful **18-core CPU** and **20-core GPU**, along with **24GB of RAM** and a **1TB SSD**. At present, this offer is available solely for the Space Black model, while the silver version remains at its original price.

This reduction marks the lowest price recorded since its launch last month, making it a tempting choice for anyone in need of a capable laptop for intensive tasks such as video editing, software development, or graphic design.

#### 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro: Year’s Top Offer

In tandem with the 16-inch variant, the **14-inch M5 MacBook Pro** featuring **24GB of RAM** and **1TB of storage** has fallen to **$1,759**, which is **$240 less** than its launch price. This markdown positions it as the year’s best offer for this model. The M5 MacBook Pro was originally priced at **$1,999**, but with the recent introduction of the M5 Pro lineup, its price has been revised, making it an enticing option for those seeking a blend of power and portability.

#### Clearance Offers on iPad Air

Alongside the MacBook offers, there are also notable savings on the **1TB M3 iPad Air**. Currently priced at **$1,249**, this model is **$200 less** than its initial price of **$1,450**. This clearance pricing is particularly important as the M4 iPad Air series has recently been released, leading to limited availability and substantial discounts on the prior generation.

The M3 iPad Air provides a flexible solution for users in search of a high-performance tablet for both work and leisure. With limited stock, this offer is expected to be short-lived, so interested shoppers should act promptly.

#### Overview of Current Offers

– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro**: $2,499 (Reg. $2,699) – $200 off
– **14-inch M5 MacBook Pro**: $1,759 (Reg. $1,999) – $240 off
– **1TB M3 iPad Air**: $1,249 (Reg. $1,450) – $200 off

These reductions showcase some of the best pricing available and highlight the competitive landscape of the tech market. Whether upgrading current devices or acquiring new ones, consumers have a distinct opportunity to obtain high-quality Apple products at lower costs.

**Apple Vision Pro: Revolutionizing Star Wars Filmmaking**

Apple and Star Wars share a rich history of partnership, which persists with the forthcoming film, *The Mandalorian & Grogu*, scheduled to debut in May. Jon Favreau, the film’s director, recently revealed how he employed the Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headset to enhance the filmmaking experience.

### Apple Vision Pro: A Mobile IMAX Experience

In a discussion at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Favreau talked about the groundbreaking consumer technology that was essential to crafting the latest Star Wars installment. He highlighted the benefits of utilizing consumer tech, especially in regard to the swift advancements compared to more niche technologies.

Favreau remarked, “There’s a lot of exceptional gaming technology being developed. There was minimal innovation in motion capture since only a few of us were using MotionBuilder. The floodgates opened with gaming.” He clarified that the production team utilized gaming hardware to establish a pre-production motion capture and pre-visualization pipeline, which has become more attainable due to improvements in consumer products.

### The Significance of Apple Vision Pro

The Apple Vision Pro headset became an indispensable tool for Favreau, enabling him to frame IMAX shots from the set. He described the experience of using the headset: “So I’m producing an IMAX movie and I’m viewing a TV screen. Regardless of your TV screen size, it can’t match an IMAX screen.” With the Vision Pro, he was able to fully immerse himself in an IMAX theater setting, observing the complete aspect ratio while aligning shots.

Favreau further explained, “I could view that take and know what the audience will experience. That’s a piece of technology that existed independently of us. We conducted a minor software build on top of it, but we’re utilizing consumer-facing tech in an industrial manner.”

### Conclusion

The incorporation of Apple Vision Pro into the filmmaking process marks a new chapter of innovation within the industry. As audiences get ready to witness *The Mandalorian & Grogu* on the big screen, they can value the cutting-edge technology that played a role in its making. The alliance between Apple and Star Wars continues to redefine the limits of storytelling and visual experiences in cinema.

**The Emergence of Foldable Smartphones: An Overview of Apple’s Upcoming iPhone Ultra**

Whether by chance or design, the newest Android foldable smartphones reflect the form factor anticipated for the iPhone Ultra, now thought to be Apple’s terminology for what was previously known as the iPhone Fold. The recent introduction of products like the Oppo Find N6 and the Huawei Pura X Max 5G has offered a preview of what users might expect from Apple’s venture into the foldable arena.

The Oppo Find N6 exhibited a display that nearly eliminates creases, a characteristic that Apple is rumored to be integrating into its foldable offering. Recent unboxing and hands-on evaluations of the Huawei Pura X Max 5G uncover a design that strikingly resembles the expected iPhone Ultra layout. This device, currently available in China, sports a broader aspect ratio for both its exterior and interior displays, a design strategy Apple is likely to embrace as well.

Apple has taken a measured approach in entering the foldable smartphone realm, with its first release projected to be around eight years post Samsung’s inaugural attempt. This postponement is mainly due to the durability of folding displays. Initial models from rivals like Samsung encountered difficulties with screen longevity, especially concerning harm from dirt and debris, along with visible creases that compromised the user experience. Nevertheless, Apple seems to have tackled these issues, reportedly achieving noteworthy improvements in display technology and hinge designs.

The display of the Oppo Find N6 is thought to be very similar to what Apple is working on, with an emphasis on reducing the crease effect. This development is vital for Apple, as it seeks to provide a high-end product that fulfills the substantial expectations of its clientele. The company is now poised for a prospective launch in September or soon after.

The design of the Huawei Pura X Max 5G includes an external display that is broader than that of standard smartphones, facilitating a more expansive internal display as well. This design philosophy resonates with Apple’s speculated intentions for the iPhone Ultra, indicating that the device will be both functional and visually appealing.

In summary, as the foldable smartphone segment continues to progress, Apple’s arrival with the iPhone Ultra is eagerly awaited. Through advancements in display technology and design, Apple aims to establish a new benchmark in the foldable category, potentially transforming user expectations for mobile devices. The forthcoming months will be crucial as consumers look forward to more information and the eventual debut of this groundbreaking device.

# Apple Watch Sleep Monitoring: Comprehending the Sleep Score Feature

The Apple Watch has transformed personal health tracking, and one of its most impressive features is the integrated sleep monitoring capability. Users can effortlessly wear their Apple Watch to sleep, and the device automatically records their sleep patterns without requiring extra apps or specialized modes.

## Improvements in watchOS 26: The Sleep Score Feature

With the rollout of watchOS 26, Apple has elevated sleep tracking by introducing a sleep score feature. This score offers users a visual depiction of their sleep quality from one night to the next, simplifying the understanding of sleep patterns and allowing for necessary modifications.

### Adjustable Sleep Score Alerts

One of the most advantageous elements of the sleep score feature is the option to receive alerts for particular score ranges. After its initial release, Apple enhanced the sleep score system based on user suggestions, improving its functionality and experience.

Each morning, users can get an alert that outlines their sleep score, aiding in the comprehension of their sleep quality. Initially, daily notifications were beneficial for users to get acquainted with the feature. However, many have discovered that personalizing notifications according to score ranges is more effective.

The sleep score falls into five categories:

– **Very Low:** 0-40
– **Low:** 41-60
– **OK:** 61-80
– **High:** 81-95
– **Very High:** 96+

For numerous users, myself included, receiving alerts for high and very high scores may not be required, as a restful night’s sleep should be the expected standard. Instead, concentrating on notifications for OK, Low, or Very Low scores can offer significant insights into sleep quality and prompt reflection on elements that may have led to a poor sleep experience.

To customize sleep score notifications, users can modify settings on either their iPhone or Apple Watch:

– **On iPhone:** Launch the Watch app, scroll to the Sleep section, and tap on Sleep Score Notifications to toggle alerts for specified ranges.
– **On Apple Watch:** Open the Settings app, scroll down to the Sleep section, and tap on Sleep Score Notifications to modify alerts.

## Grasping How Sleep Score is Determined

The sleep score is calculated based on three primary factors:

– **Sleep Duration (50 points):** The total time spent asleep.
– **Bedtime Consistency (30 points):** How consistently a user goes to bed at the same hour.
– **Interruptions (20 points):** Any disruptions that happen during sleep.

This scoring system provides a detailed overview of sleep quality, enabling users to monitor their progress over time.

### Compatibility and Accessibility

The sleep score feature necessitates watchOS 26, which works with Apple Watch Series 6 and newer, Apple Watch Ultra and newer, and Apple Watch SE 2 and newer. For those considering an upgrade, the Apple Watch Series 11 is currently offered at a reduced rate of $329 on Amazon, down from its standard price of $399.

For more in-depth information regarding sleep tracking with the Apple Watch, users can visit Apple’s official support page.

In summary, the sleep monitoring capability on the Apple Watch, especially with the improvements unveiled in watchOS 26, provides users with essential insights into their sleep quality. By leveraging the sleep score and customizable alerts, individuals can take proactive measures towards enhancing their overall health and wellness.

NASA’s Reid Wiseman, the commander of the latest Artemis II mission orbiting the Moon, has shared an incredible video taken with the iPhone 17 Pro Max that depicts ‘Earthset’—the Earth descending behind the Moon.

### Fresh Video Displays Earth Descending Behind the Moon, Captured at 8x on iPhone 17 Pro Max

We’ve witnessed numerous breathtaking images and videos from NASA’s Artemis II mission around the Moon. Some of these were even recorded on an iPhone. However, Reid Wiseman, astronaut and commander of the Artemis II mission, recently shared a new video that may just claim the title for the most remarkable one yet.

It was filmed with the iPhone 17 Pro Max using 8x zoom, revealing the Earth setting behind the Moon.

[Check out the video from Reid Wiseman on X](https://x.com/astro_reid/status/2046009031613907029?s=61&t=a-bloX1n-TZ50ofqhetO1A):

> Only one opportunity in this lifetime… Like experiencing a sunset at the beach from the most alien seat in the cosmos, I couldn’t resist capturing a cell phone video of Earthset. You can hear the shutter on the Nikon while @Astro_Christina is diligently taking 3-shot brackets and capturing those…  — Reid Wiseman (@astro_reid) April 19, 2026

From Wiseman’s message:

> I could barely make out the Moon through the docking hatch window, but the iPhone was just the right size to capture the view…this is unedited, uncut with 8x zoom, which is quite similar to the view of the human eye. Enjoy.

NASA’s astronaut team has already provided Apple with ample Artemis II content for future ‘Shot on iPhone’ marketing, but this particular piece is quite extraordinary in its own right.

To find out more about how NASA obtained approval to take iPhones on the Artemis II mission, [check our earlier article here](https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/04/heres-how-nasa-cleared-the-iphone-17-pro-max-for-astronauts-on-artemis-ii/).