Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

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.

**Meta Unveils Instants: A New Chapter in Temporary Photo Sharing**

Meta has launched a fresh iPhone application known as Instants, tailored for temporary photo sharing. This groundbreaking app also acts as a function within Instagram, with the goal of boosting organic social sharing among users.

### Instants: Independent App and Instagram Integration

Meta portrays Instants as “a novel method to share in the moment – through spontaneous, unfiltered photos– with friends.” The application enables users to post casual, everyday images that vanish after being seen, fostering a more genuine sharing experience free from the burden of edits.

As per Meta, Instants are temporary for viewers but stored in the user’s archive for up to a year. Users may reshare these images as recaps in their Stories. Friends can respond and react directly through DMs, and the app includes safeguards for teen accounts and features for family oversight.

### Rationale Behind Instants

Meta’s reasoning for unveiling Instants is to simplify sharing amongst friends. The firm aims to inspire users to share spontaneous moments without the necessity for significant editing or preparation. Instants can be accessed effortlessly from the Instagram inbox, providing a seamless addition to the existing platform.

### How to Utilize Instants on Instagram

The new Instants feature can be operated in five straightforward steps:

1. Go to your Instagram inbox and click on the mini stack of photos situated at the bottom right corner.
2. Include a caption prior to sharing, as edits are prohibited after the initial share.
3. Choose your audience, either Close Friends or followers you reciprocate. Friends can also react and share Instants.
4. Press the white button beneath the camera to share multiple Instants. An undo option will appear right after sharing, allowing for immediate retraction if necessary.
5. Instants will show up as a stack of photos in your friends’ inboxes and will vanish after they are viewed.

### The Independent Instants App

Although Instants mainly operates as a feature within Instagram, Meta has observed that early users expressed a wish for quicker access. Consequently, a standalone app is being tested to provide instant camera access. Users can log in using their existing Instagram credentials, and any Instants shared via the app will be visible to friends on Instagram and the other way around.

### Accessibility

The Instants app for iPhone is currently accessible in the App Store, and the new feature is being launched worldwide on Instagram. For further details on how to use Instants, users can visit Meta’s official announcement page.

With Instants, Meta seeks to transform how users document their daily experiences, emphasizing authenticity and spontaneity in social media engagements.

### Limit Exact Location: Apple’s Updated Privacy Feature Broadens Support

Earlier this year, Apple introduced its latest iPhone privacy capability—Limit Exact Location—but initially gained support from only a handful of carriers. Following the rollout of iOS 26.5, Apple has revealed that the feature is now accessible to a wider range of users.

#### What is ‘Limit Exact Location’?

A key enhancement in iOS this year is the ‘Limit Exact Location’ capability. When activated, this feature limits the volume of location information shared with carriers, complicating their ability to identify a user’s precise location. Instead of disclosing pinpoint details like a street address, carriers might only obtain broad information, such as the community where the device is situated.

#### Device Compatibility

The Limit Exact Location feature necessitates an Apple-designed cellular modem, specifically the C1 or C1X. Presently, this means compatibility with devices such as the iPhone Air, iPhone 17e, and iPhone 16e, along with the M5 iPad Pro. Anticipated devices, including the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra, are likely to feature the new C2 modem, which will also accommodate this privacy enhancement.

#### Broadened Carrier Support

At its inception, the Limit Exact Location feature was backed by only six carriers. With the recent update, this number has risen to ten. The revised list of carriers now encompasses:

– Austria: A1
– Denmark: YouSee
– Germany: Telekom
– Ireland: Sky
– Thailand: AIS and True
– United Kingdom: EE, BT, and Sky
– United States: Boost Mobile

Additionally, Apple has indicated that users in the European Union or the United Kingdom can activate this feature with a SIM (physical or eSIM) from a carrier in those territories.

#### How to Activate the Feature

Users can turn on the Limit Exact Location feature by going to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Limit Exact Location.

#### Conclusion

The broadening of the Limit Exact Location feature marks a crucial advancement in enhancing user privacy on iPhones and iPads. As additional carriers embrace this feature and new devices become available, it is expected that user privacy will be further safeguarded, particularly in anticipation of the iPhone 18 Pro’s release.

### The Ascendancy of AI Video Creation Applications After the Termination of Sora

In March 2023, OpenAI took the pivotal step to terminate its Sora video application, primarily driven by the substantial operational expenses linked to maintaining the AI video generation service. Sora was a resource-demanding platform that provided users the opportunity to produce videos utilizing AI technology at no cost. Following its closure, OpenAI redirected its efforts towards improving productivity tools like ChatGPT and Codex, which are more viable regarding resource management and monetization.

### The Landscape of AI Video Generation Competition

In the wake of Sora’s departure from the marketplace, alternative AI applications commenced to promote their video generation capabilities. Notably, applications such as Gemini and Grok surfaced, enabling users to transform text prompts and images into AI-generated videos. Nonetheless, these functionalities were merely elements of the wider features provided by these general AI chatbot applications.

Recently, two specialized AI video generation applications have gained traction on the App Store, signifying a revitalized interest in this technology among users.

### Leading AI Video Creation Applications on the App Store

1. **Kling AI**
– Debuted only three months ago, Kling AI has rapidly risen to the #5 spot on the App Store’s Most Downloaded free apps chart. It has also secured the leading position in the Graphics & Design category, demonstrating its attractiveness to users interested in both video and graphic creation.

2. **AI Video**
– Created by HUBX, which has a portfolio of 15 AI-centric applications, AI Video has achieved the #6 position overall and ranks #1 in the Photo & Video category. This application particularly caters to users aiming to produce viral AI videos, tapping into the burgeoning trend of short-form video content.

These applications have succeeded in capturing user interest, contending against established entities such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, and Meta, all of which have applications currently dominating the charts.

### The Prospects of AI Video Generation

The early achievements of Kling AI and AI Video indicate a possible revival in the demand for AI video generation tools. While Sora initially led the App Store following its debut, its diminished performance after several months prompts inquiries regarding the sustainability of such applications. The existing enthusiasm for Kling AI and AI Video may signify a new trend in the market, yet whether this attraction will evolve into long-term engagement remains uncertain.

As the arena of AI technology continues to progress, the rivalry among video generation apps is likely to escalate, providing users with increasingly advanced tools for content creation.