Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

ChatGPT Unveils Group Chat Functionality in Four Areas

**OpenAI Unveils Group Chats with ChatGPT: A Revolutionary Shift in Interaction**

OpenAI is presently testing a groundbreaking feature for ChatGPT that enables users to partake in group chats, signifying a notable advancement in the application of chatbots. This option is being launched in specific regions, including Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan, with intentions for wider distribution contingent on user insights.

The advent of group chats signifies a shift from conventional chatbot exchanges, which usually feature one-on-one dialogues. This fresh capability coincides with similar developments by Microsoft in its Copilot tool, which also prioritizes cooperative communication.

The group chat functionality is powered by the newly introduced GPT-5.1 model, enhancing the chatbot’s capacity to engage in conversations more seamlessly. A significant enhancement is that rate limits are enforced only during ChatGPT’s responses, allowing users to communicate freely without the persistent necessity to prompt the bot after each input. This configuration promotes a more organic exchange of dialogue among group participants.

ChatGPT is designed to track the context of the dialogue, discerning when to engage and when to remain quiet. Users can effortlessly trigger the bot by mentioning “ChatGPT” within their messages. Moreover, the chatbot is now capable of responding to messages with emojis and referencing profile images, enabling it to generate tailored visuals within the group setting, thereby enriching the interactive experience.

As OpenAI continues to improve this feature, it is dedicated to modifying the group chat functionalities based on initial user feedback. The organization aims to broaden access to additional areas in the future, setting the stage for a more collaborative and immersive utilization of AI in daily conversations.

In conclusion, the launch of group chats in ChatGPT represents a significant leap in chatbot technology, promoting a more interactive and community-oriented method of AI communication.

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Significant Notification for Compressor Users

### Apple Resolves Remote Execution Vulnerability in Compressor 4.11.1

Apple has unveiled Compressor 4.11.1, which rectifies a notable security flaw. Compressor is a specialized application aimed at video and audio encoding, transcoding, and format conversion, seamlessly integrating with Final Cut Pro and Motion to optimize conversion processes.

#### Summary of the Update

The recent update, version 4.11, brought support for an array of features and video capture technologies linked to the iPhone 17 series. However, the subsequent release of version 4.11.1 is pivotal due to its emphasis on security improvements.

#### Insights into the Security Vulnerability

The security concern revolves around a remote code execution vulnerability that might be leveraged by an unauthorized user within the same network as a Compressor server. Specifically, this flaw could enable such a user to run arbitrary code, posing a potential threat to users who have activated network-based server functionalities in Compressor.

The vulnerability has been mitigated by adjusting the default settings to deny external connections, thus lessening the risk of exploitation. This issue has been documented under CVE-2025-43515, with acknowledgments to CodeColorist and Pedro Tôrres.

#### Significance of Upgrading

Although the vulnerability could only be exploited under particular circumstances, the issuance of the fix implies that attackers may attempt to target older versions of the application. Thus, it is strongly advised for Compressor users to upgrade to the latest version as promptly as possible to maintain system security.

For further details regarding the security update, users can refer to the official Apple support webpage.

### Final Thoughts

The launch of Compressor 4.11.1 highlights Apple’s dedication to user security, especially within professional tools that manage sensitive media content. Users are urged to remain vigilant and keep their software current to guard against possible vulnerabilities.

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Apple Maps Unveils Look Around and In-Depth City Experience Features in Kansas City

**Discovering Kansas City with Apple’s Comprehensive City Experience and Look Around Features**

Residents of Missouri and Kansas can now delve into the Kansas City metro area with remarkable intricacy, courtesy of Apple’s recent upgrades to Apple Maps. The launch of the Comprehensive City Experience (CCE) and the engaging Look Around feature enables users to traverse the city with heightened precision and insight.

### View Kansas City Up Close or From High Above

Apple has officially introduced support for the Comprehensive City Experience and Look Around in Kansas City. CCE, which has been accessible in chosen cities since 2021, offers users detailed insights into the city’s elevation, neighborhoods, structures, trees, and road attributes, including crosswalks and turn lanes. With Kansas City added to the list of 33 cities and regions worldwide that provide this feature, both locals and visitors can now relish a more detailed perspective of the area.

Alongside CCE, Apple Maps now includes Look Around in Kansas City. This functionality provides a three-dimensional, 360-degree street-level perspective, enabling users to virtually navigate the city. Whether observing local attractions or scouting venues, Look Around enriches the experience for tourists and locals alike.

### Highlighted Attractions to Discover

With the newly added features, organizing sightseeing adventures or virtually hovering over Kansas City’s renowned landmarks has never been simpler. Some of the key spots to visit include:

– Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue
– Children’s Mercy Park
– Country Club Plaza
– CPKC Stadium
– Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
– Kansas City Library Giant Bookshelf
– Kauffman Stadium
– KC Wheel
– National WWII Museum and Memorial
– Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
– Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
– One Park Place
– Starlight Theater
– Union Station
– Western Auto

To explore these features firsthand, simply search for Kansas City on Apple Maps.

### Accessory Offers on Amazon

For those keen on enhancing their Apple Maps experience, browse the accessory deals currently available on Amazon.

**FTC Disclaimer:** We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. Additional information can be found on our website.

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Opera Indicates 500% Growth in European iOS Users Due to DMA Efforts

**Opera’s Extraordinary Surge in iOS Users Post-Digital Markets Act**

Norway-based Opera has announced an impressive fivefold increase in its iOS user count throughout Europe since the Digital Markets Act (DMA) was put into effect in 2024. This surge is linked to various elements, including the DMA’s regulations that improve browser options for users.

In a recent press statement, Opera revealed an 88% jump in daily active iOS users in Europe over the last year, a remarkable increase that follows a 57% rise the prior year. The DMA requires a browser choice interface for European users during device setup, which has significantly contributed to Opera’s expansion. Notably, countries such as France have seen a fivefold rise in active users since the DMA’s rollout.

Jørgen Arnesen, Opera’s Executive Vice President of Mobile, remarked on the company’s growth path, stating, “Fifteen years ago, Opera unveiled the first alternative to Apple Safari for the iPhone. After over a decade of modest growth, we identified a chance to revitalize the browser two years ago, introducing several of our distinctive trademark Opera features such as free browser VPN to iOS users. (…) Since then, the blend of an unwavering emphasis on unique browser innovations, a fairer competitive landscape in Europe, and targeted marketing has fostered the highest growth product we have witnessed in years in our portfolio.”

Currently, Opera is present on the browser choice screen in all 27 countries where it is required, further aiding its growth in Europe. The company credits its success not only to the DMA but also to the launch of features like in-browser VPN and cutting-edge AI functionalities.

For further details, Opera’s complete press release is available on their official investor relations page.

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Apple Unveils Public Beta 2 of macOS Tahoe 26.2

**macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 2: New Features and Installation Instructions**

Public beta testers for macOS can now grab macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2, which brings an inventive feature for video conferencing. Here’s what’s new.

### New Edge Light Feature

Recently, Apple unveiled macOS Tahoe 26.2 developer beta 2, showcasing an innovative “Edge Light” feature that improves video calls by brightening the edges of the screen. This unique function empowers users to adjust both the thickness and color temperature of the edge light, with options available in blue, neutral, and amber shades. The outcome emulates the effect of a ring light, which has gained popularity for streaming and video conferencing.

In addition to the new Edge Light feature, beta 2 doesn’t seem to present any other user-facing updates. Still, further investigation might unveil additional noteworthy enhancements.

The current build version being released is 25C5037j, the same as the developer beta 2.

### How to Install macOS Tahoe 26.2 Public Beta 2

To set up macOS Tahoe 26.2 public beta 2, you must first join Apple’s public beta program at

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Apple Music Co-Head Examines AI and the Evolution of Music Production at Web Summit

### Tech, AI, and Music Production: Perspectives from Web Summit 2025

During the recent Web Summit held in Lisbon, Apple Music co-head Ole Obermann and acclaimed Dutch DJ and producer Armin van Buuren engaged in an insightful dialogue regarding the revolutionary influence of technology on the music sector. Their exchange underscored the dual nature of innovation and the human element in defining the future of music.

#### The Golden Age of Music

Obermann, who previously participated in the summit as a ByteDance executive, conveyed a hopeful outlook for the music industry’s future, stating, “there is a golden era ahead of us.” He highlighted that technological advancements are broadening music accessibility, improving discovery avenues, and nurturing stronger bonds between artists and their fans.

#### The Impact of AI on Music Production

A considerable segment of the discussion centered on the incorporation of artificial intelligence in music creation. Van Buuren recounted his own experiences with AI tools, demonstrating their practical uses. He described a particular situation where he effectively transformed the voice of a male vocalist into that of a female vocalist using AI technology. This illustration showcases the creative possibilities that AI introduces into the artistic workflow.

#### Harmonizing Technology and Human Connection

In spite of the excitement surrounding technological progress, Obermann reminded attendees of the crucial human aspect in music creation. He emphasized that while technology can enrich the musical experience, it must not overshadow the creativity and genuineness that artists contribute to their art. Van Buuren supported this idea, warning against excessive dependence on technology that might compromise the artistic essence of music.

#### Apple Music’s Spatial Audio Innovation

Van Buuren also lauded Apple Music’s Spatial Audio technology, acknowledging its noteworthy impact on the quality of his recent album, *Piano*. The album features tracks that were recorded in one take, and the Spatial Audio enhancement significantly enriched the listening experience, illustrating how technology can enhance artistic creativity.

#### Conclusion

The conversation between Obermann and van Buuren at the Web Summit serves as a reminder of the changing dynamics within the music industry. As technology progresses, the challenge lies in striking a balance between innovation and the human touch that characterizes music as an artistic endeavor. For those keen on exploring these developments, Apple Music presents a subscription service that provides access to state-of-the-art features such as Spatial Audio.

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Belkin Announces Recall for Three Items, Featuring Two USB-C Power Banks, Over Fire Risks

**Belkin Announces Product Safety Recall Due to Fire Risk**

Accessory manufacturer Belkin has revealed a product safety recall affecting three of its items due to a possible fire risk. The company has advised customers to take prompt action to ensure their safety.

### Products Affected

As per the [safety recall announcement](https://www.belkin.com/support-article/?articleNum=337290), the following items are part of the recall:

– **Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro (MMA008)**
– **Belkin BoostCharge USB-C PD Power Bank 20K (BPB002)**
– **Playa USB-C PD Power Bank 20K (PB0003)**

Belkin stresses that even if these items seem to operate normally, users must cease using them immediately, disconnect them from any power sources or other devices, and contact Belkin via the [Recall Claim form](https://belkin.my.site.com/supportforms/product-recall-form).

### Return and Refund Instructions

Customers are advised against disposing of the recalled items in regular waste or recycling bins. Belkin is providing affected customers with a choice between a complete refund or store credit for the full amount plus an extra 20% on Belkin.com.

### How to Check if Your Device is Affected

To determine if your device is included in the recall, follow these steps:

1. Find the model number located on the back or side of your Belkin device. If it is MMA008, BPB002, or PB0003, move to Step 2. If not, no action is necessary.
2. Locate your serial number and/or proof of purchase.
3. Fill out the Recall Claim form.

Should you have any inquiries or issues, you can [reach out to Belkin Customer Service](https://www.belkin.com/support-article?articleNum=55022) for help.

For additional information concerning the recall,

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Apple Revises App Review Guidelines to Tackle Imitation Applications

Apple has revised its App Review Guidelines, implementing a number of new rules designed to enhance the integrity of the App Store and tackle the issue of copycat applications. This revision encompasses a total of nine amendments, with a notable emphasis on deterring developers from misappropriating the branding of other developers.

### ‘Develop Your Own Concepts’

Apple routinely updates its App Review Guidelines to respond to market dynamics. The latest revision underscores the importance of originality and discourages developers from replicating successful applications. A significant addition is a new rule in section 4.1, entitled “Copycats,” which specifies:

> **4.1 Copycats**
> (c) You may not utilize another developer’s icon, brand, or product name in your app’s icon or title, without the developer’s authorization.

This rule supports existing guidelines that already warn against imitation and impersonation. The former rules comprise:

> (a) Develop your own concepts. We understand you have them, so bring yours to fruition. Avoid merely duplicating the latest trending app on the App Store, or making minor alterations to another app’s title or UI and presenting it as your own. Besides the risk of an intellectual property violation claim, it complicates App Store navigation and is unfair to other developers.

> (b) Submitting applications that impersonate other applications or services is deemed a breach of the Developer Code of Conduct and could lead to expulsion from the Apple Developer Program.

The recent rise in copycat applications, especially following OpenAI’s official app launch, has compelled Apple to act promptly. The company has endeavored to eliminate or rename these imitation applications, emphasizing the persistent challenge of preserving originality in the App Store.

### What Other Changes Occurred?

In addition to the newly introduced branding rule, several other amendments have been made to the App Review Guidelines:

– **1.2.1(a)**: Creator applications must offer a mechanism for users to identify content that surpasses the app’s age rating and enforce age restrictions based on verified or declared age.

– **2.5.10**: The guideline stipulating that apps should not be submitted with vacant ad banners or test ads has been annulled.

– **3.2.2(ix)**: Loan applications are specified to not impose a maximum APR exceeding 36%, inclusive of costs and fees, and must not mandate full repayment within 60 days or less.

– **4.7**: Clarifies that HTML5 and JavaScript mini apps and mini games are encompassed within the guidelines.

– **4.7.2**: Applications providing software not integrated into the binary may not extend or expose native platform APIs or technologies without prior consent from Apple.

– **4.7.5**: Similar to 1.2.1(a), this guideline mandates that applications offering non-embedded software provide a method for users to identify content that surpasses the app’s age rating.

– **5.1.1(ix)**: Cryptocurrency exchanges have been incorporated into the list of applications providing services in highly regulated sectors.

– **5.1.2(i)**: Developers must clearly reveal where personal data will be shared with external parties, including third-party AI, and secure explicit consent prior to doing so.

For additional information, the complete App Review Guidelines are available

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Apple Store App Currently Accommodates Liquid Glass Technology

### Liquid Glass Meets the Apple Store App

Gradually, Apple has been refreshing its own applications with the Liquid Glass aesthetic revealed at WWDC. Recently, the Apple Store app has undergone this visual transformation, improving its interface and user experience.

With the update released earlier today, the Apple Store app icon now showcases the Liquid Glass design. This update also brings a Liquid Glass bottom bar featuring tabs for For You, Products, Go Further, and Bag, in addition to a Search button.

The Liquid Glass visual refresh applies to buttons, menus, and various UI components throughout the app’s interface. While some users may feel Apple could have pushed the design changes further, this update marks a substantial advancement in modernizing the app’s look.

With this update, the Apple Store app aligns with other Apple-developed apps such as TestFlight and Shazam, which have similarly embraced the Liquid Glass style. This demonstrates Apple’s continuous dedication to harmonizing its application design across its entire portfolio.

The release notes for Apple Store version 6.6 indicate only “various improvements and performance enhancements.” Users can download the updated app now from the App Store.

Do you believe Apple is successfully implementing the Liquid Glass transformation in its applications? Share your opinions in the comments.

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Anticipated iPhone Launches: iPhone Air 2 and iPhone 18 Pro Speculations

# Apple Product Speculations: iPhone Air 2, iPhone 18 Pro, and Future Macs

This article encapsulates the most recent speculations about Apple products, concentrating on the iPhone Air 2, iPhone 18 Pro, and forthcoming Mac models, as highlighted by 9to5Mac.

## iPhone Air 2 Isn’t Abandoned, It Just Requires More Time

Recent disclosures from *The Information* suggest that the iPhone Air 2 has been postponed indefinitely due to the disappointing sales of its predecessor. Initially anticipated to debut in fall 2026, this delay has sparked worries regarding the future of the Air series. Nonetheless, a follow-up report indicated that the iPhone Air 2 remains under active development, with a projected launch in spring 2027. This postponement is ascribed to Apple’s choice to enhance the device by incorporating a second rear camera, addressing a notable user concern regarding the original version.

### Key Points

For iPhone Air users, the news of continued development is comforting. The decision to spend extra time improving the camera capabilities is a constructive move. However, this change in timeline creates a void in Apple’s flagship product line, particularly since the standard iPhone 18 is also likely to face delays.

## Fresh iPhone 18 Pro Speculations

This week has experienced a spike in rumors about the iPhone 18 Pro. Reports affirm that the new model will sport a hole-punch design for the front camera and a variable aperture camera. Additionally, a “steel-cased battery” is noted, indicating a commitment to durability and performance.

Moreover, it is reported that the debated two-tone rear design of the iPhone 17 Pro will be swapped for a more cohesive appearance in the iPhone 18 Pro. The redesigned look aims to reduce the color variance between the glass and aluminum back panel. Furthermore, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is predicted to be the heaviest iPhone ever, exceeding 240g and becoming thicker than its predecessor.

### Key Points

The iPhone 17 Pro’s distinctive design has resonated well with consumers, and it seems that Apple will continue this theme with the iPhone 18 Pro while also heeding user feedback. The varied iPhone lineup enables Apple to address different user preferences, enhancing the overall experience.

## M5 Mac Mini and Mac Studio Timeline, and M6 MacBook Pro

Mark Gurman from *Bloomberg* has reported that the M5 Mac mini and Mac Studio are expected to launch in the middle of 2026. The Mac Studio will feature an M5 Ultra variant. Additionally, the M6 MacBook Pro is anticipated to debut later in the year, with substantial redesigns possibly reserved for the upper-tier models.

### Key Points

Gurman’s earlier predictions regarding the M4 Mac Studio imply that Apple may once again surprise consumers with an earlier release. The arrival of new Mac displays early in the year raises the likelihood of concurrent launches with the new Mac desktops, representing a strategic maneuver for Apple.

## Conclusion

The latest speculations regarding Apple products point to significant advancements in the iPhone and Mac ranges. While the iPhone Air 2 endures delays, progress in camera technology exhibits potential. The iPhone 18 Pro is poised to unveil thrilling design modifications, and the forthcoming Macs are expected to deliver robust performance. As these speculations develop, Apple fans eagerly anticipate official announcements and product launches.

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