Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### The Viral iPhone Fold Unboxing Video: A Study of Its Veracity

Recently, an unboxing clip purporting to reveal the eagerly awaited iPhone Fold has gained significant attention online. Initially, the video seems authentic, devoid of the usual signs of being an AI-generated counterfeit. Nonetheless, upon closer examination, several hints indicate that the video may not be what it claims.

#### The Basis for Doubt

Indie developer Victor Saralev, who published the video, conveyed his belief that it is indeed a fabrication. He remarked, “I’m certain this video is fake, but this is the one that went viral throughout the internet.” This skepticism mirrors the opinions of many viewers who have pointed out discrepancies in the video.

#### How Fabricated Unboxing Videos Are Made

There are three main techniques through which fake unboxing videos can be created:

1. **3D-Printed Replica Devices**: Certain Chinese smartphone companies are infamous for imitating the designs of new iPhone models. Additionally, a niche industry exists in China focused on producing realistic replicas of forthcoming Apple devices. These 3D-printed replicas frequently boast high-quality finishes and packaging, making them appear genuine.

2. **Artificial Intelligence**: Although AI-generated content is becoming increasingly advanced, the quality of this particular video appears too high to be solely attributable to AI. It lacks the usual indicators typically associated with AI-generated content.

3. **Digital Creation by Designers**: A skilled designer could have utilized sophisticated 3D rendering software to make the video. This technique allows for a high level of realism and detail, which might account for the believable nature of the footage.

#### Principal Signs of Inauthenticity

The most evident sign that the video is not genuine lies in the inconsistency of the device’s screen layout. From the front, the screen seems seamless, while the rear view shows a noticeable gap between the sides. This discrepancy raises doubts about the device’s physicality, implying that it is likely a digital creation rather than a physical replica. Moreover, the video refrains from displaying the device being flipped over, which would typically occur during an unboxing.

#### Conclusion

Considering the discrepancies in the video and the potential for digital manipulation, it appears plausible that a proficient visual artist, probably with some AI support, is responsible for the creation of the iPhone Fold unboxing video. As the technology for generating realistic digital content progresses, distinguishing the authenticity of such videos becomes more challenging. The viral aspect of this video highlights the necessity of critical assessment in an era where visual media can be easily distorted.

For more insights, you can delve into the original conversation on platforms like CNET.

### The Advancement of AI Wearables: An In-Depth Examination of the Button

In recent times, the notion of AI hardware devices has attracted considerable interest, with numerous specialists drawing comparisons between these advancements and the progression of portable music players. Two former Apple engineers, Chris Nolet and Ryan Burgoyne, have launched a novel AI wearable named “Button,” which closely resembles the iPod Shuffle. This article delves into the ramifications of this innovative device, its design, and the wider context of AI wearables.

#### The Idea of AI Wearables

AI wearables have encountered doubt since their beginnings. Earlier endeavors, like the Humane AI pin and the Rabbit R1, received predominantly negative feedback, with critics deeming them as impractical and badly designed. Marques Brownlee, a well-known tech reviewer, referred to the Humane AI pin as the worst product he had ever assessed, summarizing the prevailing opinion surrounding these gadgets.

The central argument against specific AI hardware is that most users already possess powerful smartphones capable of running AI applications. The comparison to the iPod is fitting; while the iPod was groundbreaking in its era, the rise of smartphones made it unnecessary for many users. The same reasoning pertains to AI wearables today—if smartphones were nonexistent, these devices might be intriguing, but their necessity is doubtful in a realm where robust apps are easily accessible.

#### Presenting the Button

The Button, created by Nolet and Burgoyne, is a small device designed to enable interactions with a generative AI chatbot. The gadget is deliberately crafted to look like the iPod Shuffle, featuring a straightforward button interface. Users can press the button to engage the chatbot, which can listen, respond to queries, and perform commands. The device can deliver audio replies or connect to earbuds and smart glasses via Bluetooth, addressing some privacy issues linked with always-on devices.

In spite of its innovative stance on privacy, the Button prompts an essential question: why is it necessary as an independent device instead of an application on current smartphones? Nolet contends that while AI can be accessed on computers and phones, the Button presents a unique interaction that is “better.” However, he does not clarify what distinguishes the Button from current smartphone applications.

#### The Prospects of AI Wearables

As the Button makes its entry into the market, it signifies a larger trend in the tech sector towards dedicated AI hardware. While the device seeks to tackle privacy challenges and deliver a distinct user experience, it must surmount the doubt surrounding AI wearables. The hurdle lies in persuading consumers that a dedicated device is a worthwhile investment when powerful alternatives are available on their smartphones.

In summary, the Button illustrates the ongoing investigation of AI wearables and their potential impact on our lives. As technology continues to advance, the success of such devices will hinge on their capability to provide unique benefits over current solutions. The discussion surrounding AI hardware is far from concluded, and the Button might just mark the start of a new era in wearable technology.

Apple has verified that Stolen Device Protection will be activated by default for enterprise devices upgrading from iOS 26.4 to iOS 26.4.1, and from iPadOS 26.4 to iPadOS 26.4.1. This functionality is part of Apple’s ongoing initiative to bolster security across its devices.

### iOS 26.4 Had Previously Activated the Feature by Default on Non-Enterprise Devices

With the recent launch of iOS 26.4.1 and iPadOS 26.4.1, Apple has issued updates that encompass bug fixes and enhancements. Significantly, the release notes mentioned that the update addressed a CloudKit bug impacting iCloud data synchronization. Apple has also revised its support page to validate that Stolen Device Protection will be automatically activated for enterprise devices during this update.

### Apple Continues to Strengthen Security on Its Devices

This action follows Apple’s earlier choice to enable Stolen Device Protection by default for non-enterprise devices in iOS 26.4. Initially introduced in 2024, this feature provides extra security layers for sensitive operations when an iPhone is outside recognized locations, necessitating biometric authentication for accessing saved passwords or altering account settings. It also imposes a delay for high-risk actions to thwart unauthorized access.

#### How Stolen Device Protection Operates

Stolen Device Protection incorporates various security protocols:

– **Biometric Authentication**: Activities such as accessing stored passwords and payment methods require Face ID or Touch ID, with no alternative fallback, ensuring that solely the authorized user can utilize these features.

– **Security Delay**: Specific actions, such as altering an Apple Account password, require waiting an hour and executing additional biometric authentication.

The update follows Apple’s proactive measures to rectify security vulnerabilities, including those unveiled by the Coruna and DarkSword exploits. Recent updates have been rolled out to fix these vulnerabilities across both legacy and current versions of iOS and iPadOS.

Moreover, the timing of this update aligns with Anthropic’s declaration of its new AI model, Mythos, which is intended to detect security weaknesses in operating systems and browsers. While the choice to enable Stolen Device Protection by default for enterprise devices may not be directly associated with recent exploits or the influence of Mythos, it highlights Apple’s dedication to enhancing user security.

For additional details on Stolen Device Protection, users can check Apple’s support page.

Apple has sought to acquire internal data from Samsung in South Korea as part of its ongoing antitrust battle with the U.S. government regarding alleged monopolistic practices. Here are the specifics.

### Apple Requests Documents from Samsung in South Korea

In March 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice, along with a coalition of states, filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging that it leverages App Store policies, developer constraints, and control over crucial iPhone functionalities to restrict competition in the smartphone and related markets.

Following Apple’s unsuccessful effort to dismiss the case, it has entered the discovery phase, during which both parties exchange documentation, request records, and compile evidence to bolster their positions.

This context informs Apple’s recent submission, where it requests the court to issue a formal letter of request, enabling it to pursue documents from Samsung Electronics in South Korea, after Samsung’s U.S. subsidiary declined to provide records claimed to be solely maintained by the Korean parent company:

> Apple Inc. (“Apple”) respectfully requests that this Court issue the accompanying Letter of Request under the Hague Convention of 18 March 1970 on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters (“Hague Evidence Convention”) to Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (“Samsung Electronics”) in the Republic of Korea. Apple’s Letter of Request seeks internal business reports, market analyses, and data regarding Samsung’s smartphone, smartwatch, and app store businesses. Apple has already subpoenaed Samsung Electronics’ domestic subsidiary, Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (“Samsung America” or “SEA”), but Samsung America has objected to all of Apple’s document requests on the basis that it will not produce documents purportedly in the sole possession, custody, or control of Samsung Electronics.

Apple’s submission is based on the Hague Evidence Convention, providing a procedure for courts to gather evidence from international entities in civil or commercial matters.

Regular readers of 9to5Mac might recall that the Hague Convention was mentioned earlier this year in another case involving Apple.

This year, South Korea declined to fulfill xAI’s document request from superapp developer Kakao, indicating that the demands were excessively broad.

Apple is now utilizing the same framework, although with a more refined request centered on particular Samsung documents related to smartphones, smartwatches, and the Galaxy Store.

Indeed, Apple dedicates a significant portion of its filing to detailing the precise scope and justification behind it, presumably aiming to demonstrate to both the U.S. court and South Korean authorities that the request is specifically targeted and connected to critical issues in the case. In the filing, Apple contends that:

> A. The Requested Evidence Is Important To The Litigation
> B. The Letter Of Request Is Reasonably Specific And Tailored
> C. No Adequate Alternative Means Exist To Obtain The Information
> **D. Issuance Promotes U.S. Interests And Does Not Undermine Korea’s Interests**

It remains to be seen whether Apple’s request will yield positive results. Even if granted by the U.S. court, South Korean authorities must still decide on its execution, and Samsung could raise objections based on Korean law.

To access Apple’s full motion, follow this link.

**The Apple Museum: Commemorating 50 Years of Innovation in Utrecht**

The Apple Museum, situated in Utrecht, Netherlands, officially opened on April 2, 2026, aligning with the festivities of Apple’s 50th anniversary. This museum serves as a homage to the legendary technology firm and provides visitors an in-depth view of its legacy, products, and cultural significance.

### A Realm Where 50 Years of Apple Unfolds

Covering more than 21,000 square feet, the Apple Museum contains one of the largest assortments of Apple memorabilia globally. Guests can wander through various themed areas, including a replica of the renowned garage where Steve Jobs and his associates launched the company. The museum offers an immersive journey that highlights not only Apple’s revolutionary products but also the principles that have propelled the company since its beginning.

A notable feature of the museum is the “Think Different” hallway, which honors the inventive spirit that Apple represents. Furthermore, the museum explores Steve Jobs’s path during his absence from Apple and his subsequent tenure at NeXT, offering a comprehensive narrative of his impact on the tech landscape.

### Teamwork Behind the Museum

The creation of the Apple Museum is a product of a cooperative initiative spearheaded by Ed Bindels, the founder and chairman of the Apple Museum Foundation. Together with a committed group of over 50 volunteers, comprising technicians, collectors, and historians, the collection was carefully assembled. This initiative included securing a substantial collection from the previous Apple Museum in Westerbork, guaranteeing that visitors enjoy an outstanding presentation of Apple history.

### Visitor Details

For those wishing to visit, the Apple Museum welcomes guests from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on most days, excluding Tuesdays. Timed entry slots are available every 15 minutes, with the last entry at 4:00 p.m. The museum is conveniently located at Proostwetering 5d, 3543 AB, Utrecht, with parking accessible at the nearby P1 lot.

To discover more about the Apple Museum and plan your visit, you can follow this [link](https://applemuseum.nl).

### Conclusion

The Apple Museum in Utrecht stands as a monument to 50 years of innovation and creativity that has characterized Apple Inc. It presents a unique chance for enthusiasts and newcomers to delve into the legacy of one of the most significant companies in technological history. Whether you’re a dedicated Apple supporter or just intrigued by its global influence, the museum guarantees an engaging and enlightening experience.

### iPhone 18 Pro’s Camera Control: A Streamlined Approach

The iPhone 18 Pro is anticipated to debut this autumn, and one of its most discussed features is the redesigned Camera Control button. This latest version is rumored to eliminate the capacitive functions that were introduced with the iPhone 16, striving for a more direct and approachable user experience.

#### The Transition of Camera Control

When the iPhone 16 was launched featuring Camera Control, it received a varied response. Some users valued the sophisticated functionalities—such as the capacitive slider for managing zoom, exposure, and Photographic Styles—while others considered these features to be unwieldy and susceptible to unintentional activation. Numerous users, myself included, chose to turn off these extras to simplify the experience.

Despite early concerns, updates and manual tweaks led to a heightened appreciation for the Camera Control feature. However, nearly two years later, the consensus appears to indicate that the capacitive features were more of an obstacle than an advantage.

#### A Shift Towards Simplicity

Recent reports indicate that Apple is addressing user feedback by refining the Camera Control button for the iPhone 18 Pro. The new design will keep pressure sensitivity while discarding the capacitive features that many deemed excessive. This modification reflects a wider trend in technology: the belief that sometimes, less is truly more.

By zeroing in on the essential functionalities that users cherish, Apple intends to improve the Camera Control experience. The button is projected to act as a dedicated launcher for the Camera app, which many users find advantageous.

#### Possible Improvements

While the simplification is a welcome development, there is optimism that Apple will add minor enhancements to the Camera Control feature. One proposed idea is the capability to double-click the button to swiftly switch to a specific camera mode, like the selfie camera. Such a feature would give users enhanced flexibility and speed in capturing moments.

#### Conclusion

The iPhone 18 Pro’s Camera Control is set to deliver a more intuitive experience by eliminating unnecessary complexities. By centering on what users genuinely require, Apple is likely to provide a feature that boosts photography without inundating users with choices. As the release date nears, many are eager to witness how these adjustments will enhance their photography experience on the iPhone.

**iPadOS 26.4 Upgrades: A New Chapter for Multi-Window Management**

iPadOS 26 has ushered in a considerable transformation in the multitasking features of the iPad, presenting a more adaptable window system that permits users to launch and adjust multiple app windows. This change has been especially appreciated by power users who depend on multitasking for their efficiency. The latest update, iPadOS 26.4, has further improved this experience by introducing a function designed to enhance window management.

### New Feature: Hidden Windows Notification

A prominent improvement in iPadOS 26.4 is the rollout of a notification system that informs users when an app has hidden windows. Upon launching an app with several windows open, users will now encounter a popup that shows the number of hidden windows. This notification is displayed as “X Hidden Windows,” and selecting it will unveil all open windows related to that app.

This feature aims to simplify the user experience, facilitating the tracking of multiple windows and minimizing the likelihood of overlooking essential tasks. The popup is contextually relevant; it shows up near the app icon, making it noticeable yet unobtrusive.

### User Experience and Feedback

Early user responses indicate that the popup does not show up each time an app is initiated, likely a deliberate design decision by Apple. This selective notification helps avoid the popup becoming bothersome, particularly for users who frequently navigate between apps. While it may not be essential for every user, those who work with multiple windows for the same app will find this feature exceptionally advantageous.

### Conclusion

The enhancements in iPadOS 26.4 demonstrate Apple’s dedication to refining the multitasking experience for iPad users. By catering to the requirements of power users with features such as the hidden windows notification, Apple is progressing toward a more efficient and user-centric environment. As users adapt to these modifications, the new windowing system is set to boost productivity and streamline workflows on the iPad.

**iOS 26.4.1 Now Released: Major Fixes for iCloud Data Synchronization Problems**

Apple has unveiled iOS 26.4.1, which rectifies a major flaw impacting iCloud data synchronization for users. Although the official release notes were somewhat unclear, a discussion on the developer forums disclosed that this update is aimed specifically at issues concerning iCloud change notifications.

### The Issue and Its Consequences

iPhone users on iOS 26.4 faced difficulties where their devices ceased to receive notifications about changes made in iCloud. This interruption affected various applications utilizing the CloudKit framework, including Apple’s own Passwords app. The lack of data synchronization across devices meant that alterations made on one device were not mirrored on others, resulting in inconsistencies and confusion.

This problem raised particular concerns for developers of third-party applications, like Drafts, who felt helpless in resolving the issue except for submitting bug reports to Apple. The fix required an operating system update, which is now included in the release of iOS 26.4.1.

### Services Impacted

The iCloud synchronization problem was not confined to third-party applications; it also influenced some of Apple’s services that depend on CloudKit. For example, the shared passwords function in the Apple Passwords app was affected, complicating the user experience for those depending on seamless data synchronization.

### Instructions for Updating

If you have encountered synchronization issues on your iPhone and are currently using iOS 26.4.0, it is recommended to upgrade to iOS 26.4.1. The same bug exists on iPadOS 26.4.0, although macOS Tahoe 26.4 users were not influenced by this specific issue.

To update your device, go to **Settings -> General -> Software Update** and download the latest version. For individuals participating in the beta program, the problem has already been resolved in the most recent release of iOS 26.5.

### Summary

The launch of iOS 26.4.1 is an important update for users encountering iCloud data synchronization problems. By addressing this issue, Apple seeks to enhance the dependability of its cloud services and improve the overall user experience across its devices. If you have been dealing with these synchronization issues, updating your device is highly recommended.

Apple has recently refreshed its Self Service Repair Store, broadening the accessibility of individual repair components for its newest products, including the esteemed MacBook Neo. This initiative, which commenced in 2022, enables users in qualifying areas to buy or rent parts and tools to conduct their own repairs on compatible devices.

The Self Service Repair Store not only grants access to essential elements but also supplies official repair guides. These guides feature comprehensive, step-by-step instructions for replacing various serviceable components, simplifying the repair process for users looking to manage repairs on their own.

The latest update introduces new parts and tools for the MacBook Neo and the iPhone 17e, in addition to other newly launched products such as the iPad Air (M4), MacBook Air (M5), MacBook Pro (M5 Pro and M5 Max), new Studio Display, and Studio Display XDR. Users can now acquire parts including the back glass and bottom speaker of the iPhone 17e as well as the housing, fans, and logic board of the Studio Display XDR.

This advancement is especially advantageous for MacBook Neo users, as the laptop has been lauded for its repairability. The access to parts and tools empowers users to oversee their device upkeep, potentially prolonging the lifespan of their products.

For additional details, users can visit Apple’s Self Service Repair Store and find the official repair manuals via the provided links.

**Tubi is the First Streaming Video Service to Feature a ChatGPT App**

OpenAI’s ChatGPT applications showcase a transforming landscape where artificial intelligence is becoming a foundation for diverse applications. The latest advancement in this realm is Tubi, which has emerged as the inaugural streaming video service to incorporate a ChatGPT app. This collaboration aims to improve user experience by offering a unique method for viewers to explore and enjoy Tubi’s vast collection of more than 300,000 films and TV episodes.

**How It Operates**

The synergy between Tubi and ChatGPT enables users to connect with the streaming service via conversational inquiries. For example, users can ask for specific film recommendations, such as inquiring about movies centered on baseball. The Tubi ChatGPT app will subsequently create a list of corresponding films accessible on the platform. By choosing a film from the suggestions, users can effortlessly start viewing it on Tubi’s website.

Besides personalized film recommendations, the Tubi ChatGPT app provides standard AI-generated replies, including general top movie compilations and follow-up prompts for additional discoveries. This interactive element seeks to improve the decision-making journey for viewers, simplifying the process of locating content that aligns with their tastes.

As a representative of Tubi highlighted, the introduction of the ChatGPT app within their framework signifies a transition towards merging entertainment discovery into settings where users increasingly desire recommendations. Users can conveniently add the Tubi app from the ChatGPT app store and participate by typing “@Tubi” followed by their mood or specific queries, like “a thriller for tonight.” This leads to curated, interactive recommendations that can be viewed directly on Tubi.

While the incorporation of AI in video streaming is on the rise, it’s important to acknowledge that other AI initiatives, such as OpenAI’s Sora video creation application, have recently been shut down. This underscores the complexities and changing landscape of AI implementations within the entertainment sector.

In summary, Tubi’s partnership with ChatGPT represents a noteworthy advancement at the juncture of streaming services and artificial intelligence, offering users a more interactive and customized viewing experience.