Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Starting today, Strava users can log their workouts and make use of the newest AirPods Pro 3 workout capability. Strava has revealed that this feature operates as an independent experience with AirPods or in tandem with the Apple Watch.

### Strava for iPhone Now Supports Heart Rate Data from Both AirPods and Apple Watch

The latest iteration of Strava showcases compatibility with AirPods Pro 3 during workouts. Users with these headphones can broadcast their heart rate live to Mobile Record directly from their ears. The AirPods Pro 3 are the first in the AirPods series to provide integrated heart rate monitoring without the necessity for an Apple Watch.

For those who possess an Apple Watch, Strava will determine the optimal heart rate data available, improving the precision of workout tracking. Strava mentions, “Pair them with the Apple Watch and both devices collaborate, automatically selecting the strongest signal so you receive the most precise reading whether you’re running, cycling, or weightlifting. No additional setup, no extra equipment, just hit record.” This feature requires iOS 18 or higher along with AirPods Pro 3.

### You Can Also Monitor Physical Therapy Exercises with Strava

Alongside the new AirPods feature, Strava has rolled out a category for logging physical therapy exercises. This enables users to keep their streak with physical therapy routines, track the frequency of exercises such as calf raises, and monitor the cumulative time spent on physical therapy weekly and monthly.

With the addition of physical therapy exercise tracking and support for AirPods Pro 3, Strava has made noteworthy enhancements. Earlier this year, Strava also introduced offline maps for Apple Watch and included new workout categories.

The Strava iPhone application is available for free on the App Store, and AirPods Pro 3 can be purchased for $229 (previously $249) on Amazon.

**Apple TV’s Global Division Experiences Its Second Exit in a Month**

Just a few weeks after Oliver Jones departed Apple TV for Amazon, another leader concentrating on international content is leaving the organization.

A short while ago, *THR* disclosed that Oliver Jones, an Apple TV executive involved in productions such as *Masters of the Air*, *Disclaimer*, and *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters* over the past six years, was moving to Amazon MGM Studios, where he would spearhead U.K. scripted content.

Now, *Deadline* reveals that Morgan Wandell, Apple TV’s Head of International Development, is also exiting. Instead of joining a rival, Wandell is establishing his own production firm, named Kismet.

Located in Los Angeles, Kismet will be focused on creating and producing high-quality scripted series intended for the global market by discovering and cultivating projects and voices that can resonate through premium culturally rooted storytelling.

Interestingly, Wandell became part of Apple in 2017, after driving the development of original content for international viewers at Amazon Studios, and ABC Studios before that.

Since then, he has contributed to various Apple TV series, including *Tehran*, *Acapulco*, *Masters of the Air*, *Disclaimer*, *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters*, and *The New Look*.

*Deadline* reports that following Wandell’s exit, Apple TV’s Head of Programming and Domestic Development, Matt Cherniss, will assume responsibility for the shows previously managed by Wandell. Cherniss already oversees series such as *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Studio*, and *Pluribus*.

Meanwhile, Apple TV’s Creative Director for Europe, Jay Hunt, will broaden her role to manage international and local-language originals. Hunt is currently responsible for shows like *Slow Horses* and *Hijack*.

Apple TV is accessible for $12.99 per month and includes popular TV shows and films like *Severance*, *The Studio*, *The Morning Show*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo*.

Netflix’s Transition to Advertising: Broadening Ad-Tier and New Income Sources

Netflix, the premier streaming platform worldwide, has experienced a notable shift in its business strategy, especially with the launch of an ad-supported tier. Once opposed to the concept of featuring advertisements, Netflix has now adopted this approach in light of increasing subscription fees and market oversaturation. Consequently, more users are choosing the budget-friendly ad-supported option.

Recent updates reveal that Netflix’s ad tier has achieved impressive growth, with over 250 million global users utilizing this feature each month, a significant rise from 94 million only a year earlier. This increase in ad-tier subscriptions signifies a wider trend as consumers look for economical choices amid ongoing price increases.

In a recent showcase, Netflix outlined its intentions to further enhance its advertising initiatives in the forthcoming year. Two main strategies were underscored:

1. **Advertisements in the Vertical Video Feed**: Netflix will start incorporating advertisements into its newly revamped vertical video feed within the application. This strategy aims to boost user interaction and generate more advertising opportunities.

2. **Podcast Advertising**: The organization intends to add ads to more of its podcast content, leveraging the surging popularity of audio media and diversifying its revenue avenues.

These alterations are part of Netflix’s strategy to increase ad income, particularly as subscriber growth has decelerated due to market saturation. The company still stands as the leading streaming service, but industry dynamics are evolving, making it essential to focus on alternative revenue channels.

While Netflix shifts towards advertising, rivals such as Apple TV have not yet launched an ad-supported tier. Although Apple executives have not dismissed the notion of introducing ads in the future, any modifications seem likely to occur alongside forthcoming subscription price changes.

As Netflix continues to adjust to the changing streaming environment, its emphasis on advertising may transform its connection with consumers and alter the competitive landscape within the industry.

Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone, speculated to be called the iPhone Ultra, is anticipated to debut this fall. Here are six notable features predicted for this premium gadget.

### Design: Book-style fold with titanium, crease-less display

The iPhone Ultra will showcase a distinctive design, setting it apart from standard foldables by being broader than it is tall when open. It will utilize a book-style fold, featuring an outer display that is shorter and wider than earlier iPhone screens, while the inner display will mirror the dimensions and shape of an iPad mini. A significant leap for foldable technology, the inner display is expected to be free of creases. The design will include a titanium frame, making it ultra-slim when opened and resembling two stacked iPhone Airs when closed. Color choices are rumored to be confined to black and white.

### Displays: Distinct sizes and orientations

The iPhone Ultra will feature two screens: an outer display measuring between 5.3 to 5.5 inches and an inner display ranging from 7.6 to 7.8 inches. The outer screen will present a broader aspect ratio, resembling an iPhone mini, while the inner display will offer a more expansive viewing experience similar to holding an iPad mini.

### Cameras: Two rear lenses, plus two front-facing

Fitted with two rear cameras—48MP Main and 48MP Ultra Wide—the iPhone Ultra will not include a Telephoto lens that is available in the Pro variants. Furthermore, it will have two front-facing cameras, one for each display, likely utilizing the 18MP Center Stage camera introduced with the iPhone 17, designed in a hole-punch configuration.

### Software: iOS 27 multitasking features

The iPhone Ultra will operate on iOS 27, which is expected to bring multitasking functionalities unique to this model. Users can look forward to side-by-side app capabilities and iPad-like app layouts, though it will not support the complete windowing functionalities of iPadOS.

### Apple Silicon: A20 Pro chip, C2 cellular modem

The device will be fueled by the new A20 Pro chip and C2 cellular modem, both also anticipated in the iPhone 18 Pro. The A20 Pro chip will employ a 2-nanometer process for improved efficiency and will include 12GB of RAM with quicker LPDDR5 technology. The C2 modem will substitute Qualcomm’s 5G solutions with an Apple-designed alternative, promising numerous new advantages.

### Touch ID

Notably, the iPhone Ultra will not come with Face ID; instead, it will bring back Touch ID, integrated into the power button. This choice is due to the device’s slim design, which does not accommodate the necessary Face ID components.

### Pricing and Wrap-Up

Speculated pricing for the iPhone Ultra starts at about $1,999 for a 256GB version, potentially making it the priciest iPhone to date. This pricing reflects its dual role as both an iPhone and an iPad, justifying the elevated cost.

The iPhone Ultra is sparking considerable interest, and prospective buyers are left to ponder whether this groundbreaking device aligns with their needs compared to other models.

WhatsApp and the Meta AI application now enable users to switch on incognito mode for private discussions with Meta AI. This recently introduced feature, unveiled by Mark Zuckerberg, turns conversations into transient exchanges that vanish when the user leaves the session. It’s akin to functionalities provided by other chatbots such as ChatGPT and Claude.

The Incognito Chat functionality aims to bolster privacy, employing Private Processing technology that guarantees Meta cannot access the dialogue’s content. This system handles AI queries within a secure setting, swiftly erasing data post-processing, in contrast to other services that might keep conversation records for lengthy durations.

Alongside safeguarding chat content, Incognito Chat also protects online searches made during the discussion. Meta AI is able to conduct searches based on chat keywords without associating them with the user, further enhancing privacy.

The feature is currently being deployed, and users can obtain more details about it on WhatsApp’s official blog.

**Apple is Overhauling iOS 27’s Liquid Glass Tab Bars, Possibly Addressing My Main Concern**

Yesterday, Mark Gurman at *Bloomberg* released a detailed report discussing design modifications for iOS 27 as a whole, with particular focus on the new Siri and enhanced Camera app. One of the most striking aspects is the revamp of Liquid Glass tab bars, which might tackle major user grievances.

The launch of iOS 27 is mere weeks away, and rumors regarding new features and modifications keep surfacing. Gurman covered several design alterations, emphasizing significant updates across multiple sections, including Siri, system search, and applications like Safari, Image Playground, and Weather. He pointed out that Apple is intending sweeping changes, including fresh animations and revamped tab bars.

The extensive modifications have drawn particular interest. For example, a fresh animation will debut when the on-screen keyboard appears, showing keys gliding up from the bottom of the iPhone’s screen. Concerning tab bars, Apple is adjusting them to merge the search tab with the remaining tabs of an application.

This reshape of tab bars is particularly thrilling for many users, as the existing version in iOS 26 has become a source of annoyance. In iOS 26, Apple made tab bars more see-through and isolated the search function into a separate button. Furthermore, tab bars in various applications reduce to a single icon when scrolling, requiring an extra tap to access them.

This additional tap, essential for changing tabs, seems regressive when compared to earlier iterations. Users often find it necessary to tap the minimized tab bar to bring it back into view, which can be inconvenient in applications such as Photos, Music, and Podcasts. While some apps keep a visible tab bar during scrolling, the lack of consistency only heightens the frustration.

The hope is that reintroducing search into the tab bar will also lead to the removal of the collapsing feature. If Apple opts to keep the minimized tab bar in iOS 27, it could result in search being concealed as well, which would be a step backward. However, according to Gurman’s insights, it appears likely that tab bars will stay visible across all applications, addressing a significant issue regarding the current Liquid Glass layout.

As iOS 27 nears its release, users are keen to discover what revisions will be implemented and how they will enhance the overall experience. User feedback is essential, and Apple is known for refining designs based on this feedback. The forthcoming update holds the potential to rectify long-standing problems and improve usability for iPhone users.

### Claude for Small Business: A Revolutionary Tool for Mac Users

If you operate a small business on your Mac, you should take note of Anthropic’s newest Claude release. Anthropic is simplifying the process for small business proprietors to harness cutting-edge AI tools with its innovative Claude for Small Business offering.

#### Claude for Small Business Functions on Desktop

Claude for Small Business is characterized as “a collection of connectors and pre-configured workflows that embed Claude into the tools small businesses rely on.” This new suite of AI tools operates on the Claude desktop application, enabling Mac users to effortlessly incorporate these functionalities into their everyday tasks.

The setup procedure is simple; Claude for Small Business features a toggle install that integrates flawlessly with applications that small business operators already utilize, such as Intuit QuickBooks, PayPal, HubSpot, Canva, DocuSign, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365. Through these integrations, Claude can aid with diverse activities, including payroll planning, month-end closes, sales campaign management, and invoice follow-ups.

For a thorough list of all connectors compatible with Claude for Small Business, Anthropic offers extensive details on its solutions page. Furthermore, the company provides a complimentary AI fluency course for small business owners, comprising 14 lectures with over an hour of video content, designed to assist users in effectively leveraging AI.

To discover more about the new Claude for Small Business package, check out Anthropic’s official announcement. This initiative seems to be an outstanding starting point for small business owners aiming to boost their operations with AI technology on their Mac.

Apple’s major developer conference, WWDC, is just weeks away. A recent report suggests that an announcement may be forthcoming regarding Apple’s initiatives to enhance the integration of AI agents within the App Store.

### Apple is said to be ‘developing a system’ for AI agents to comply with App Store privacy and security requirements

Aaron Tilley, in an article for The Information, reveals that Apple is searching for methods to better integrate AI agents into its App Store to capitalize on the tech sector’s most popular trend, while ensuring that the software in its marketplace adheres to its policies. AI agents, which can perform complex tasks on behalf of users, pose challenges for Apple’s stringent regulations designed to thwart malware, bypass App Store fees, and deter other forms of abuse. For example, certain agents can generate smaller applications on demand to complete various functions, which could lead to complications if such actions are taken after Apple has already sanctioned the applications.

Apple’s initiatives to integrate AI agents are aimed at addressing these discrepancies. While specific information remains confidential, it is reported that Apple employees are designing a system to meet its privacy and security benchmarks, thwarting the unpredictable behavior observed in some agent systems, like OpenClaw, where agents may malfunction and erase user data.

The report indicates that Apple could announce updates concerning AI agents within the App Store during WWDC next month, though it is also possible that the company may not be fully prepared for this revelation.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has acknowledged the growing presence of AI agents, especially amid Mac supply shortages. Numerous users are turning to the Mac mini and Mac Studio to facilitate the operation of these agents.

Apple is determined to safeguard its profitable App Store business from disruption brought on by the emerging agent trend. However, the intention is not merely to protect revenue; if Apple can discover a means to support AI agents while ensuring crucial privacy and security assurances through the App Store, it would benefit users as well.

What do you anticipate Apple will introduce on the App Store concerning AI agents? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple is preparing to launch a significant redesign of Siri on June 8, with sources suggesting that the firm is currently engaging developers to merge their applications with Siri’s enhanced functionalities in iOS 27. However, worries have surfaced about possible future commission charges that Apple might levy on developers.

As per a report by The Information, Apple is aiming to improve the integration of AI agents on the App Store, with an announcement anticipated at the forthcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The company is particularly keen on motivating developers, notably in China, to leverage the new Siri features. Prominent firms such as Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent are among those being solicited for integration.

Although Apple has assured that there will be no commission costs in the initial phases of collaboration, some developers are still cautious. They fear that Apple might impose fees in the future, which could impact their app’s profitability. The details of any potential fee arrangement are still ambiguous, but it is indicated that the integration under discussion pertains to the app intents feature, which would enable Siri to execute various tasks across multiple apps without the necessity of launching them.

The scenario underscores the fragile equilibrium Apple needs to strike as it strives to enhance Siri’s capabilities while also ensuring developers feel comfortable in their partnerships. With WWDC on the horizon, the developments of these discussions and the future of Siri’s collaboration with third-party applications will be closely monitored by both developers and users.

**Latest Amazon Offers on MacBooks, iPhones, and Apple Watches**

Amazon has recently revealed that it will have all MacBook Neo models shipped by Friday, featuring exciting price cuts on various Apple items. The standout of the ongoing deals includes notable reductions on MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models, in addition to the authentic Apple iPhone Air MagSafe Battery.

### MacBook Neo Models

Amazon is presenting the following MacBook Neo models at reduced rates, all eligible for delivery by Friday:

– **MacBook Neo Citrus 256GB**: $590 (reduced by $10)
– **MacBook Neo Citrus 512GB**: $690 (reduced by $10)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 256GB**: $590 (reduced by $10)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 512GB**: $690 (reduced by $10)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 256GB**: $590 (reduced by $10, delivery by tomorrow)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 512GB**: $690 (reduced by $10)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 256GB**: $590 (reduced by $10)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 512GB**: $690 (reduced by $10, delivery by tomorrow)

### 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro

The 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro has achieved its lowest price to date, with a $400 drop from the retail price. Currently priced at **$2,899**, this model boasts 48GB of RAM and a 1TB internal SSD. B&H is selling it for **$2,799**, providing a competitive offer.

### M5 MacBook Air Discounts

For those interested in the M5 MacBook Air, Amazon features the 13-inch variant with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage for **$1,149**, down from its usual price of $1,299, showcasing a $150 saving. This model is currently the best offer available for the 1TB version.

### Apple Watch Series 11 Offers

One of the prominent bargains includes the 46mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + Cellular model, now offered at **$399**, reflecting a $130 price reduction. This is the lowest price recorded for this version, making it an appealing choice for those in the market for a new smartwatch.

### Accessories and Charging Discounts

In addition to the aforementioned deals, Amazon is also highlighting discounts on accessories, such as the official Apple iPhone Air MagSafe Battery, which is now at an unprecedented low price of nearly 40% off.

### Conclusion

With these discounts on MacBooks, iPhones, and Apple Watches, Amazon is creating fantastic opportunities for customers to acquire premium Apple products at lowered prices. Whether you are in search of a new laptop, smartphone accessory, or smartwatch, now is an excellent time to seize these offers.