Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

# Apple Incorporates Video Podcasts with Improved Experience in iOS 26.4

Apple Podcasts has unveiled a fresh video podcast experience with the launch of iOS 26.4. This upgrade enables iPhone users on the iOS 26.4 Release Candidate to enjoy video podcasts together with standard audio formats, simplifying the experience for creators and audiences.

## Improved Video Podcast Experience

The latest video podcast capability allows creators to publish video material that can be either streamed or listened to as audio, removing the necessity for separate feeds. This integration empowers creators by providing a platform to distribute their content via participating hosting services and ad networks while keeping control over their material and monetization approaches.

At launch, supported hosting providers include Acast, Amazon’s ART19, iHeartMedia’s Triton Digital, and SiriusXM, among others. This partnership guarantees that creators can implement dynamic ad insertion for video podcasts, enabling them to seamlessly integrate video ads within their programs. This functionality presents new monetization possibilities while preserving content integrity.

## Dynamic Ad Insertion

For the first time, creators can dynamically incorporate video ads, including host-read placements, into their podcasts. This feature not only enhances the advertising experience but also allows creators to access the larger video advertising market. The integration of video ads is conducted without disrupting current follower or download trends, enabling creators to capitalize on their content through sponsorships and dynamic advertising efficiently.

## Revenue Model and Hosting Support

Apple does not impose fees on hosting providers or creators for distributing podcasts on Apple Podcasts, regardless of whether it’s through traditional RSS/MP3 or HLS video. However, later this year, Apple will introduce a standard impression-based fee for participating ad networks delivering dynamic ads in HLS video on the platform.

It’s noteworthy that the new video experience will not automatically become available for all existing video podcasts. Each hosting provider is required to support Apple’s new video system, meaning users may need to verify updates from their chosen podcasts.

## Podcasts with Apple Podcasts Video Support

At present, two podcasts have successfully integrated the new video system: [Primary Technology](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/primary-technology/id1723943281) and [Movies on the Side](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/movies-on-the-side/id1373518864). Stephen Robles, the host of both programs, has announced their availability using the new Apple Podcasts Video feature, encouraging listeners to utilize the enhanced functionality.

## Compatibility and Future Prospects

The new video podcast experience is compatible with iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and the web. However, support for Mac or Apple TV is currently absent, which could further enhance the viewing experience. Apple is anticipated to roll out iOS 26.4 to the public later this week, representing a substantial advancement in the podcasting domain.

In summary, Apple’s new video podcast experience in iOS 26.4 signifies a significant leap forward for both creators and listeners, offering enhanced features and monetization avenues while streamlining the podcasting process.

**Anthropic Unveils Claude’s Mac Control Feature**

Anthropic has introduced a groundbreaking feature that enables its AI assistant, Claude, to manage Mac computers. This functionality is activated via prompts sent from an iPhone, allowing users to engage with their computers in a fresh and effective manner.

In a newly released unlisted YouTube video, Anthropic showcased Claude’s capabilities through two particular applications: Claude Cowork and Claude Code. These tools empower Claude to carry out various operations on the computer, emulating human behaviors such as pointing, clicking, and navigating. Users can direct Claude to open and modify files, as well as handle complex software tasks, all through a fluid interface.

As reported by Engadget, this feature will be accessible as a research preview for Claude Pro and Claude Max subscribers on macOS. This advancement signifies a notable progression in the development of AI agents, facilitating more direct interaction with personal computing devices.

The launch of this feature positions Anthropic as a significant contender in the AI agent domain, a sector that has witnessed heightened interest and rivalry. Importantly, the AI agent movement was initiated with Claude before evolving to OpenAI. Other firms, like Perplexity Computer and Meta with its Manus initiative, are also investigating similar functionalities, reflecting an expanding trend in AI-driven personal computing.

With the demand for AI agents continuously increasing, the Mac minis that originally facilitated these innovations are often out of stock, underscoring the appeal and potential of this technology. Anthropic’s Claude is poised to transform how users engage with their computers, streamlining everyday tasks through AI assistance.

Instagram is launching a highly-anticipated feature that allows users to rearrange photos and videos in a carousel after a post has gone live. This enhancement addresses a widespread annoyance among users who have uploaded a carousel only to find the content order was incorrect. Previously, the only way to rectify this was to delete the post and upload it again in the right sequence, which was both time-consuming and inconvenient.

With the newly introduced carousel reordering feature, users can effortlessly modify the arrangement of their photos and videos without the need to delete and repost. Here’s how to utilize this feature:

1. Tap on your profile, then choose the carousel post you wish to modify.
2. Tap the “…” menu in the upper right corner of the post.
3. Select “Edit” from the options provided in the menu.
4. Long-press on the photo or video you want to relocate, then drag it left or right to reorder it as you prefer.

As with many new features, the rollout might not be instantaneous for everyone. If the option is not visible to you yet, it is advisable to check back in a few days as Instagram continues to roll out the update across its platform.

**iOS 26.4: Enhancements to Liquid Glass Customization**

iOS 26.4 is poised for imminent release, bringing forth new features that refine the customization of the Liquid Glass aesthetic on iPhones. This update emphasizes offering users greater control over the visual dynamics linked to the Liquid Glass interface.

### New Customization Features

The recent update unveils two primary settings designed to enhance user experience:

1. **Reduce Bright Effects**: This newly introduced feature enables users to lessen the flashing effects that appear when engaging with particular Liquid Glass UI components. According to Apple, this setting is crafted to “minimize highlighting and flashing during interaction with onscreen elements, such as buttons or the keyboard.” Users can locate this toggle under Settings ⇾ Accessibility ⇾ Display & Text Size.

2. **Reduce Motion**: Although not a fresh addition in iOS 26.4, the Reduce Motion feature has been refined to deliver a more dependable decrease in animations for users sensitive to screen motion. Apple has underscored that this enhancement is intended to improve the experience for those who faced challenges with animations following the prior iOS 26 update. The updated toggle is available in Settings ⇾ Accessibility ⇾ Motion.

### Future Prospects

Speculation exists that iOS 27 might roll out a slider feature for modifying Liquid Glass effects directly, offering even greater customization possibilities for users. However, until that potential update arrives, iOS 26.4 significantly broadens the current customization tools.

### Conclusion

Through the introduction of Reduce Bright Effects and refinements to Reduce Motion, iOS 26.4 seeks to meet the needs of users desiring a more tailored and comfortable interaction with their iPhones. Users are encouraged to investigate these new settings and share their feedback.

**AI Requirements Positioned to Propel Memory Demand Amid Reduced Low-Storage NAND Availability**

A recent analysis by TrendForce suggests that in spite of escalating NAND Flash prices and limited availability, the typical storage capacity of smartphones is anticipated to see a modest increase in 2026. This trend stands in contrast to previous forecasts that smartphone makers would lower specifications to preserve profit margins, which might have resulted in a decrease in average storage capacity.

As per TrendForce, the typical smartphone storage capacity is projected to rise by 4.8% in 2026, primarily driven by the growing need for on-device AI processing. Premium brands, especially Apple and Huawei, are advancing their AI functionalities through systems such as Apple Intelligence 2.0 and Huawei’s HarmonyOS AI. These sophisticated AI frameworks necessitate considerable system storage—ranging from 40 to 60 GB—as cache for local processing tasks.

In a strategic decision, Apple phased out the base-level 128 GB iPhone last year, debuting the iPhone 17 series with a baseline storage of 256 GB. This choice was aimed at providing sufficient capacity for AI applications and user data. A comparable trend was noted with the recent launch of the iPhone 17e, which took the place of the iPhone 16e.

This alteration in storage capacity is not only due to AI requirements; it is also shaped by advances in the manufacturing processes of NAND Flash producers, leading to a gradual increase in smartphone storage capacities throughout the market.

The report underscores a disparity in storage capacity developments between iPhones and Android devices. TrendForce indicates that the average storage capacity for iPhones is projected to grow considerably quicker than that of Android devices, as premium smartphone manufacturers are more proficient at absorbing elevated memory expenses. These brands are augmenting storage capacities to accommodate higher device pricing and enrich AI functionalities.

For more information, you can view TrendForce’s full report [here](https://www.trendforce.com/presscenter/news/20260323-12983.html).

Apple TV has an exciting April in store, featuring both new and returning shows, a major movie launch, multiple sports events, and more. Here’s the complete list of what’s debuting on Apple TV this April.

## Your Friends & Neighbors (season 2)

– **When:** *April 3*
– **What:** *TV Show*
– **Genre:** *Drama*

In the second season of “Your Friends & Neighbors,” Andrew Cooper (Hamm) fully embraces his role as an unexpected suburban burglar, until a new neighbor arrives, threatening to reveal his secrets and jeopardize his family. This season introduces Emmy Award nominee James Marsden as the enigmatic new neighbor, along with returning cast members Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn, Hoon Lee, Mark Tallman, Lena Hall, Aimee Carrero, Eunice Bae, Isabel Gravitt, and Donovan Colan.

You can [watch Your Friends & Neighbors season 1 here](https://tv.apple.com/show/your-friends–neighbors/umc.cmc.74o37kzay0yuuub8iumddjsg?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.74o37kzay0yuuub8iumddjsg&at=1000l3cvR) on Apple TV.

## Outcome

– **When:** *April 10*
– **What:** *Movie*
– **Genre:** *Dark Comedy*

“Outcome” is a dark comedy that follows Reef Hawk (Keanu Reeves), a cherished Hollywood actor who is propelled into confronting his inner demons when he is blackmailed with a damaging video that threatens to ruin his reputation and terminate his career. With the help of his lifelong friends Kyle (Cameron Diaz) and Xander (Matt Bomer), along with his crisis attorney Ira (Jonah Hill), Reef sets off on a transformative quest to reconcile with those he may have offended while attempting to unveil the blackmailer. Co-writer and director Hill provides a distinct perspective on Reef’s exhilarating yet spiritually redemptive, reflective, and revealing journey through the past, where addressing his history might be his only chance at salvation for the future.

You can [add Outcome to your Apple TV Watchlist here](https://tv.apple.com/movie/outcome/umc.cmc.3uvjztuy2y8ve2rj6nvgyop89?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.3uvjztuy2y8ve2rj6nvgyop89&at=1000l3cvR).

## Margo’s Got Money Troubles

– **When:** *April 15*
– **What:** *TV Show*
– **Genre:** *Comedic Drama*

“Margo’s Got Money Troubles” is a vibrant, heartfelt, and humorous family drama centering on Margo (Elle Fanning), a recent college graduate and aspiring writer, the daughter of a former Hooters waitress (Michelle Pfeiffer) and an ex-professional wrestler (Nick Offerman), as she navigates her life with a newborn, rising bills, and fewer options to cover them.

You can [add Margo’s Got Money Troubles to your Apple TV Watchlist here](https://tv.apple.com/show/margos-got-money-troubles/umc.cmc.6wgw0u6vuwydp6obbzzccup3w?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.6wgw0u6vuwydp6obbzzccup3w&at=1000l3cvR).

## Criminal Record (season 2)

– **When:** *April 22*
– **What:** *TV Show*
– **Genre:** *Thriller*

“Criminal Record” presents a gripping, character-driven narrative set within modern London, examining the challenges of law enforcement when the truth is uncertain. In the second season, after a young man is fatally stabbed at a political gathering, rival cops June Lenker (Jumbo) and Daniel Hegarty (Capaldi) must reluctantly collaborate. However, the quest for the murderer transforms into a covert mission to thwart a far-right bombing scheme in central London.

You can [watch Criminal Record season 1 here](https://tv.apple.com/show/criminal-record/umc.cmc.1sbjeoma6tvxgda6l0h4bb0x3?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.1sbjeoma6tvxgda6l0h4bb0x3&at=1000l3cvR).

Apple is presently commemorating its 50th anniversary with a series of exclusive events taking place around the globe. The celebrations commenced at Apple Grand Central in New York, where the store was shut down for two days to facilitate the festivities. Prominent guests included artist Alicia Keys, who performed at the occasion, along with Apple CEO Tim Cook and various other executives.

After the New York festivity, Apple welcomed artist Chris Lee at Apple Taikoo Li Chengdu in China. These gatherings are recorded in Apple’s Newsroom, which underscores the company’s dedication to marking this important milestone. Apple plans to continue hosting events throughout March, leading up to its official anniversary on April 1.

The celebrations are designed to highlight human creativity and innovation, stressing the influence of Apple products on people’s lives. A possible hint regarding the next event is the revised hours announced for Apple Battersea in London, which will close three hours earlier on an upcoming Tuesday. This could suggest that another anniversary celebration is scheduled for that day, likely to take place after 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT.

As the month unfolds, Apple is anticipated to reveal additional information about its international celebrations, further connecting with its community and honoring its legacy in technology and innovation.

**The University of Texas to Launch Digital University IDs in 2027-2028**

The University of Texas (UT) has revealed an exciting plan to implement digital University IDs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year. This initiative is designed to boost student convenience and security by incorporating digital IDs with Apple Wallet, enabling students to effortlessly access various campus services.

As per a press release from UT, the digital IDs will permit students to enter buildings, make dining transactions, participate in events, utilize library services, and more, all through their smartphones. The initiative is spearheaded by the Student Government, which has been a consistent advocate for the adoption of digital IDs.

In a unified statement, Student Government representatives Thomas and Chu shared their enthusiasm, stating, “For years, students requested digital IDs, and together, we delivered. We are privileged to have collaborated with our exceptional University administrators to transform this long-held student vision into a shared reality.”

The digital IDs will be accessible via the MyUT portal, allowing students to effortlessly add them to both Apple Wallet and Android Wallet. This dual availability guarantees a smooth transition for the Longhorn community as they adjust to this new technology along with their physical IDs.

At present, the initiative is in the feedback and discovery stage, with design and development to follow. The university highlights that digital IDs will be more economical and secure compared to conventional physical IDs. Students will no longer face charges for lost IDs, while the university will lower costs related to card production. Digital credentials, being attached to personal devices, significantly minimize the chances of loaned or shared cards and can be refreshed in nearly real-time, improving both convenience and security.

For further details, UT students can check the Enterprise Technology website. This important advancement of the Apple Wallet student ID platform is especially significant, as UT Austin supports over 55,000 students, representing a major step forward in digital campus services.

In summary, the University of Texas is set to pioneer the modernization of student identification with the rollout of digital IDs, reflecting a growing trend among educational institutions towards leveraging technology for enhanced student experiences.

Apple has already introduced numerous new products this year, but there are six additional product launches speculated to occur in the upcoming weeks and months.

## HomePod mini 2 and HomePod 3

Apple’s long-awaited ‘HomePad’ or ‘HomePod Touch’ device is likely not to debut until September. However, speculation suggests we may witness other HomePod models sooner. Mark Gurman mentioned in his newsletter that HomePod mini and HomePod inventories are low at Apple Stores, hinting that hardware updates might be on the horizon. HomePod mini 2 has apparently been ready for a while but was delayed due to issues with Siri. There are rumors that iOS 26.5 could introduce some of Siri’s AI enhancements, allowing Apple to finally release the product. Despite sparse rumors regarding a new full-sized HomePod, it would be logical for Apple to upgrade it in conjunction with the HomePod mini to prevent the larger model from feeling outdated.

## New Apple TV 4K

In addition to indications of new HomePods, Gurman notes that the Apple TV 4K stock is also dwindling. A revamped Apple TV 4K featuring an A17 Pro or A18 chip for Apple Intelligence support has been highly anticipated. If Siri’s enhancements roll out with the iOS 26.5 update, the timing could be just right for an Apple TV 4K refresh. Along with the new A-series chip, it is expected that the Apple TV 4K will also incorporate an N1 wireless chip, and a built-in camera may be a possibility.

## M5 Mac Studio and Mac mini

Apple recently unveiled new M5 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models, but rumors hint that two additional M5 Macs will soon debut: a new Mac Studio and Mac mini. The forthcoming Mac Studio is anticipated to feature both M5 Max and M5 Ultra chip variants, representing the first ‘Ultra’ chip since the M3 Ultra. The Mac mini will come equipped with M5 and M5 Pro chips. There are no design changes rumored for either product, but the existing Mac Studio models are already facing supply constraints, indicating an impending update. Nonetheless, worldwide storage and memory shortages might postpone these launches.

## Base iPad with A18 chip

The new M4 iPad Air has just been released, and rumors suggest that the base model iPad will see an update soon. The current entry-level iPad uses an A16 chip, while the new version is expected to incorporate an upgraded A18 chip. The A18 is important as it will introduce Apple Intelligence support to the base iPad for the first time. With Apple hinting at “AI advancements” for WWDC this year, the timing is perfect for a new base iPad.

## Apple’s rumored new products: wrap-up

Whether these six products are released soon or not, it is evident that Apple has had a busy first half of the year. The momentum is forecasted to continue this fall with the upcoming anticipated iPhone 18 Pro, new AirPods Pro, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and more on the way.

### Apple Maps Set to Roll Out Advertising: A New Income Source

Apple Maps, the navigation and mapping service crafted by Apple Inc., is said to be on the brink of incorporating advertising into its platform. This initiative is part of Apple’s larger plan to boost its services revenue, which has become progressively vital for the firm’s financial advancement.

#### Upcoming Advertising Features

As reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple is poised to unveil the launch of ads within the Apple Maps application, likely this month. The advertising format is anticipated to mirror the search ads currently found in the App Store, albeit instead of promoting app downloads, the ads will display sponsored businesses relevant to users’ search queries.

The advertising mechanism will enable retailers and brands to compete for ad spots based on particular search terms, akin to the model used by Google Maps. This strategy aims to enhance visibility for businesses while concurrently generating extra revenue for Apple.

#### Timeline for Implementation

Gurman suggests that the advertising features in Apple Maps may start showing up as soon as this summer across a range of devices, including iPhones and the web version of the application. This schedule aligns with Apple’s continuous efforts to enhance its services and broaden its income streams.

#### Recent Upgrades to Apple Maps

Alongside the expected advertising features, Apple Maps has recently experienced notable enhancements as part of the iOS 26 update. Key new features include:

– **Preferred Routes for Navigation**: Users can now choose preferred routes, improving their navigation experience.
– **Visited Places Feature**: This feature automatically records locations users have been to, offering a convenient method to track travel history.
– **Natural Language Search**: Improved search capabilities driven by Apple Intelligence allow users to look for locations using more conversational language.

These updates showcase Apple’s dedication to enhancing user experience and functionality within Apple Maps, establishing it as a more competitive option in the mapping service landscape.

#### Conclusion

The introduction of advertising in Apple Maps signifies a major transformation for the platform, potentially altering how users engage with the app while providing businesses with new avenues for visibility. As Apple persists in innovating and broadening its services, the incorporation of ads may serve a vital role in the company’s ongoing growth strategy.