AllYouCanTech

watchOS 26.2 Brings Major Enhancements to Sleep Score: Important Modifications Explained

### Grasping the New Sleep Score Feature in watchOS 26.2

One of the key attributes of watchOS 26 is the Sleep Score, which offers users a nightly rating and categorization of their sleep quality on the Apple Watch. With the latest release of the initial betas of watchOS 26.2, Apple has implemented multiple modifications to improve this feature.

#### What is Sleep Score?

The Sleep Score functionality on the Apple Watch evaluates how restorative your sleep is for both the mind and the body. The score is determined based on three primary criteria, with a total of 100 points available:

– **Duration**: Up to 50 points
– **Bedtime**: Up to 30 points
– **Interruptions**: Up to 20 points

These scores are then aggregated to yield an overall Sleep Score, which is categorized into five levels:

– **Very Low**: 0-29 points
– **Low**: 30-49 points
– **OK**: 50-69 points
– **High**: 70-89 points
– **Excellent**: 90-100 points

#### Modifications in watchOS 26.2

With the launch of watchOS 26.2, Apple has updated the classification levels of the Sleep Score. The top classification level has been changed from “Excellent” to “Very High,” and the thresholds for each category have been modified:

– **Very Low**: 0-40 points
– **Low**: 41-60 points
– **OK**: 61-80 points
– **High**: 81-95 points
– **Very High**: 96-100 points

This change implies that a score of 70/100 will no longer meet the criteria for the “High” category, as the cutoff has been increased to 81/100. Apple seeks to deliver a more objective metric with the designation “Very High,” aimed at minimizing confusion regarding users’ feelings based on their Sleep Score.

#### Data-Informed Enhancements

The modifications to the Sleep Score feature are guided by data gathered through the Apple Heart and Movement Study. As Apple has collected more insights and feedback from users, it has fine-tuned the Sleep Score to better adhere to the most recent guidelines from esteemed organizations such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the National Sleep Foundation, and the World Sleep Society.

#### User Feedback

The changes in watchOS 26.2 appear to respond to concerns expressed by users on platforms like Reddit, where some have critiqued the Sleep Score for being excessively lenient. The renaming of the highest score category to “Very High” aligns more closely with the other classifications and provides a more accurate portrayal of sleep quality.

#### Conclusion

The Sleep Score feature is accessible on all Apple Watch models that support watchOS 26, and it also functions with third-party devices. As Apple continues to fine-tune this feature, users can anticipate a more accurate evaluation of their sleep quality. The feedback from the community has been instrumental in these improvements, showcasing Apple’s dedication to enhancing user experience based on actual data and insights.

Reductions on M4 Mac mini (up to $150 reduction), M3 MacBook Air ($500 reduction), AirTags (beginning at $16 each), Qi2 chargers, and more deals

### Early Black Friday Offers on Apple Items

As the festive shopping season nears, retailers are unveiling early Black Friday offers, especially on sought-after Apple items. This article showcases some of the top deals currently on the market, featuring considerable price cuts on Mac mini configurations, MacBook Air variants, AirTags, and various accessories.

#### M4 Mac Mini Configurations: Savings Up to $150

Apple’s M4 Mac mini is experiencing significant price reductions prior to Black Friday. The entry-level model is now listed at **$499**, down from its standard price. Multiple configurations are discounted, with reductions hitting up to **$150 off** on higher-end options, including the 24GB/1TB model. These offers align with pricing seen during Prime Day, marking them as some of the best deals available this season.

While there’s a chance for further discounts as Black Friday approaches, the existing prices are already advantageous, indicating that the M4 Mac mini might not be subject to deeper reductions. Traditionally, Apple products retain consistent pricing during the holiday period, and these offers reflect that pattern.

#### Apple’s 13-inch 24GB M3 MacBook Air: $500 Off

In addition to the M4 versions, the prior-generation **M3 MacBook Air** is also on sale, boasting a generous discount of **$500 off** the original price. Currently retailing at **$999**, this model comes with 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. Initially priced at $1,699, this deal offers substantial savings for those who might not require the latest tech.

When compared to the new M4 models, the M3 MacBook Air is priced **$300 less**, making it a compelling choice for budget-savvy shoppers. Despite being an older version, the M3 still delivers impressive performance and value, especially at this reduced price.

#### Apple AirTags: 4-Pack for $64.99

Another remarkable offer is on Apple’s **4-pack of AirTags**, currently available for **$64.99**, which breaks down to just above **$16 per AirTag**. This pricing is well below the retail cost of $99, providing about **35% savings**. The AirTags are perfect for tracking personal belongings and serve as fantastic gifts during the holiday season.

#### Accessories and Charging Discounts

Alongside the major product reductions, several accessories are also enjoying price cuts. Apple’s official **iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max silicone cases** are now priced starting at **$37**, representing a **25% discount**. These cases are nearing their all-time low prices, making them an excellent buy for anyone looking to safeguard their devices.

### Conclusion

With early Black Friday promotions now available, shoppers have the chance to enjoy considerable savings on Apple items. Whether you’re seeking a new Mac mini, a MacBook Air, or accessories like AirTags and silicone cases, these offers present great value ahead of the holiday shopping season. Ensure to act swiftly, as these deals may not be available for long.

macOS Tahoe 26.1 Brings Improved Tools for Spotlight’s Clipboard Function

Apple unveiled macOS Tahoe 26.1 yesterday for all users, bringing fresh privacy features for Spotlight’s clipboard history function that had previously escaped attention.

### Spotlight’s Clipboard History Feature Now Includes Privacy-Conscious Options

Spotlight in macOS Tahoe has gained substantial strength, showcasing upgrades like Quick Keys, new supported actions, and more pertinent results. A significant enhancement in macOS Tahoe was the launch of clipboard history.

Within the System Settings under Spotlight, users can now opt to enable or disable Clipboard History according to their privacy preferences. With the release of macOS Tahoe 26.1, Apple has broadened these privacy features, offering users enhanced control over their clipboard history.

In the past, users were confined to basic ‘On’ and ‘Off’ toggles for clipboard history. The latest update empowers users to determine the duration for which they want their clipboard history saved, with options including:

– 30 minutes
– 8 hours
– 7 days

For those mindful of privacy but still wishing to utilize clipboard history in Spotlight, the 30-minute option is perfect. The 8-hour setting was the default before this update, although it wasn’t explicitly stated in Tahoe. For users requiring additional time, the new 7-day option is available.

Furthermore, macOS Tahoe 26.1 introduces a ‘Clear Clipboard History’ button for the first time. This feature is found within the same Spotlight settings panel, enabling users to erase their clipboard history with a single click, regardless of the chosen expiration time.

With these updated privacy features, users can more effectively oversee their clipboard history while taking advantage of Spotlight’s enhanced capabilities.

Nomad’s Qi2 25W 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Dock Compatible with Pixel 10 and iPhone 17

Nomad has unveiled an enhancement to its well-known “Stand One” charging series, now incorporating Qi2 support. This upgrade is especially advantageous for Pixel 10 and iPhone 17 users, as it introduces a Qi2 25W charging feature that comes with a secondary charger tailored for earbuds like Pixel Buds or AirPods.

The Qi2 25W charging functionality adheres to the new Qi 2.2.1 standard, which improves charging speeds to 25W. Although the charging rate may taper off as the battery approaches capacity, it offers a considerable advantage for devices running low on battery. The iPhone 17 series and the iPhone 16 series (with iOS 26) are compatible with this new charging standard.

The revamped “Stand One” charger showcases a primary 25W charger on the front for smartphones and an additional Qi charger on the back for charging earbud cases. For users seeking more features, the “Stand One Max” version delivers the same charging speeds and includes an integrated Apple Watch charger.

To harness the full potential of both chargers, a 40W adapter is required, which is not part of the purchase package. Nomad provides compatible 40W adapters starting at $25, though any USB-C PD charger rated at 40W or more will work.

This new range is particularly thrilling for Android aficionados, notably those with the Pixel 10 series. The earlier “Stand One” version was mainly tailored for MagSafe, offering only 5W-7.5W charging speeds to Android devices. The addition of Qi2 support signifies a considerable enhancement, enabling quicker and more efficient charging.

The “Stand One” charger is crafted from high-quality materials, weighing over 1lb, which aids in keeping it steady as users detach their phones. Its rubber base and metal build enhance both its durability and visual charm. The Qi2 25W “Stand One” charging stand can now be purchased for $119 for the 2-in-1 version and $159 for the 3-in-1 version that includes the Apple Watch charger.

In conclusion, Nomad’s upgraded “Stand One” series with Qi2 support presents a flexible and effective charging solution for both Pixel 10 and iPhone 17 users, making it a valuable investment for anyone in search of a dependable and stylish charging stand.

Report: M5 Ultra Processor Anticipated to Debut for Mac Next Year

Apple’s forthcoming M5 chip will have various high-end variants launching next year, and a recent report indicates that an M5 Ultra will be included among them.

### The Upcoming Mac Studio is Expected to Feature M5 Max and M5 Ultra Chip Choices

To the surprise of many professional users, the M4 chip series did not introduce a high-end Ultra variant. Instead, when Apple launched its newest Mac Studio, it provided two alternatives:

– M4 Max
– M3 Ultra

The combination of chips from different generations led some users to face a tough choice. Should they opt for the most powerful chip overall, the M3 Ultra, or save some money with an M4 Max that might perform better in select workflows?

It appears that Apple intends to avoid recreating that situation in the near future. A recent Bloomberg report, which mainly discusses a new affordable MacBook model, also references the development of an M5 Ultra chip.

Mark Gurman states that the coming year will see:

> new M5 and M5 Pro Mac mini models along with M5 Max and M5 Ultra updates for Mac Studio

According to Gurman, the next Mac Studio will come equipped with M5 Max and M5 Ultra options for consumers. He does not mention any other Macs receiving the M5 Ultra. However, previously, Gurman anticipated a new Mac Pro to be released around 2025.

There hasn’t been mention of a new Mac Pro in rumors for a while. If it remains in the works, it could realistically debut in 2026 featuring an M5 Ultra option as well.

Do you welcome the news of Apple providing an Ultra version of the M5 chip? Or do you see Apple using different chip generations as a non-issue? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top Mac Accessories

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.*

iOS 26.1 Unveils New Functionality for Apple Music Application

Apple Music patrons were greeted with numerous new features upon the launch of iOS 26, and the latest update to iOS 26.1 has brought even further enhancements. A major highlight of this update is the capability to swipe on the MiniPlayer to switch tracks, greatly enhancing the user experience.

### iOS 26.1: Swipe Gesture for Track Changes

The Music application saw a makeover in iOS 26, especially at the bottom of the display where the MiniPlayer resides. The tab bar has been optimized, consolidating into a single row that features the MiniPlayer and search options. Although the MiniPlayer appears smaller in this configuration, it has acquired a new feature with the iOS 26.1 update.

Users can now effortlessly swipe left and right on the MiniPlayer to move through their music collection. This gesture functions flawlessly whether the MiniPlayer is fully expanded or minimized next to the tab bar. The experience is further enhanced with Liquid Glass effects and haptic feedback, delivering a tactile sensation when tracks are shifted.

Swiping left will move to the subsequent song in the lineup, while swiping right will revert to the last track. Numerous users have discovered that this new gesture quickly becomes second nature, providing a more convenient option compared to the conventional seek controls present in the Now Playing screen.

### Conclusion

The addition of the swipe gesture in iOS 26.1 has been positively welcomed by Apple Music users, augmenting the overall capability of the app. As users acclimate to this new feature, it is anticipated to become a fundamental part of their music listening habits. Community feedback continues to influence the development of Apple Music, and users are urged to share their thoughts on the new swipe gesture.

WhatsApp Launches New Apple Watch Application with Improved Features

**WhatsApp for Apple Watch: An In-Depth Look**

The speculations have been validated: WhatsApp has officially rolled out a specialized app for the Apple Watch. Following a recent leak from TestFlight, Meta has revealed the launch of a fully functional watchOS version of WhatsApp, improving the user experience for Apple Watch users.

### Improved watchOS Support

Meta’s engagement with Apple Watch applications has been varied, alternating between strong support and the discontinuation of several apps. Nevertheless, the latest update represents a considerable enhancement in WhatsApp’s capabilities on watchOS. Previously, users had access to WhatsApp only through basic notifications, which enabled message reading and replying but lacked a complete set of features. The new app revolutionizes this experience by providing a variety of functionalities directly accessible on the Apple Watch.

### Notable Features of WhatsApp on Apple Watch

The new WhatsApp application for Apple Watch features several impressive capabilities:

– **Incoming Call Alerts**: Users can receive notifications for incoming calls directly on their Apple Watch, removing the necessity to glance at their iPhone.

– **Complete Message Access**: The app enables users to view entire WhatsApp messages, including lengthy texts, right from their wrist.

– **Voice Note Capability**: Users are now able to record and transmit voice messages, making their communication more engaging and personal.

– **Emoji Reactions**: An option to send rapid emoji responses to incoming messages has been incorporated, increasing interactivity.

– **Enhanced Media Display**: The app delivers clearer images and stickers, enriching the visual experience on the Apple Watch.

– **Access to Chat History**: Users can view a greater portion of their chat history on the display, making message management simpler.

Meta assures users that all personal messages and calls remain confidential, safeguarded by end-to-end encryption, even while utilizing the Apple Watch. Additionally, there are intentions for new features in forthcoming updates to further enhance the watchOS experience.

### Compatibility Requirements

To utilize the WhatsApp app on Apple Watch, users must have watchOS 10 or newer and an Apple Watch Series 4 or above.

### Conclusion

The introduction of WhatsApp for Apple Watch marks a significant advancement for users in search of a more integrated messaging experience on their wearable devices. With its innovative features and enhanced functionality, WhatsApp aims to improve communication on the move. Are you excited about using WhatsApp on your Apple Watch? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Amazon Launches Alexa+ within Its iOS Music Application as Users Look Forward to Improved Siri Capabilities

**The Advancement of Music Interaction: Amazon’s Alexa+ in the Music Streaming Sphere**

A key development in music streaming technology is the emergence of smart assistants that improve user engagement with music applications. A notable instance of this is Amazon’s Alexa+, which pledges to transform how individuals connect with music through its sophisticated conversational abilities. This article delves into the functionalities of Alexa+ and its repercussions for music streaming.

### What is Alexa+?

Alexa+, commonly known as Alexa Plus, signifies Amazon’s next-gen intelligent assistant, crafted to offer a more engaging and tailored experience for users. Introduced in March 2023, Alexa+ endeavors to exceed the functionalities of conventional voice assistants by delivering a more conversational method for music exploration and interaction.

### Primary Features of Alexa+

Alexa+ is created to be more than merely a voice-activated device; it serves as an informed companion capable of engaging users in meaningful discussions about music. Several of its exceptional features encompass:

– **Conversational Engagement**: Users can partake in natural conversations, requesting music recommendations based on moods, genres, or particular artists. For example, a user could say, “I feel like listening to some electronic music, can you suggest a few tracks?” and continue the dialogue to refine their choices.

– **Comprehensive Music Knowledge**: Alexa+ is able to provide details about artist influences, discographies, and even the narratives behind distinct songs. This level of insight permits users to navigate music in a more enriching manner.

– **Playlist Generation**: The assistant can create playlists from both general and highly specific requests, such as “make a playlist for driving along the Pacific Coast Highway at sunset” or “I need concentration music that fuses ambient electronic with light classical piano—no lyrics, please.”

### Alexa+ in the Amazon Music App

The incorporation of Alexa+ into the Amazon Music app signifies a notable improvement in how users can engage with their music. Released in beta for iOS and Android, this feature grants users access to Alexa+ across all subscription levels. The launch is part of Amazon’s initiative to enhance user interaction with music streaming services.

### User Interaction and Popularity

Initial trials of Alexa+ have presented encouraging outcomes, with users discovering music three times more than with the original Alexa. Those looking for music suggestions have claimed to listen to nearly 70% more music, showcasing that the interactive features of Alexa+ greatly enhance the user experience.

### How to Utilize Alexa+

To experience Alexa+, users must enroll in the Alexa+ Early Access program. Following the beta phase, the service will be priced at $19.99 per month, although it will be complimentary for Amazon Prime members, presenting an appealing option for current subscribers.

### Conclusion

Amazon’s Alexa+ is establishing a new benchmark for music interaction via intelligent assistants. By facilitating more conversational and personalized experiences, Alexa+ not only improves music discovery but also nurtures a stronger bond between users and their favorite songs. As the realm of music streaming continues to develop, innovations like Alexa+ will be pivotal in molding how we engage with music in the digital era.

iPadOS 26.1 Improves iPad Pro Functionality with Additional Feature

The most recent iPad software upgrade, iPadOS 26.1, has been launched with a noteworthy boost for productivity: the reinstatement of Slide Over. This capability enables users to keep one application in view above others, thereby enhancing the multitasking experience.

### iPadOS 26’s Revamped Windowing System and the Reintroduction of Slide Over

For the past ten years, the iPad Pro has been a fundamental computing device for numerous users. With the rollout of iPadOS 26, Apple intended to advance productivity by introducing a new window management system. Nevertheless, the first version saw the elimination of Slide Over and Split View, which had been crucial for effective multitasking. While users could recreate some elements of Split View, the lack of Slide Over was particularly prominent.

Slide Over offers users the ability to keep one window on top of other applications, enabling quick access to secondary tasks without overwhelming the primary workspace. This feature was especially beneficial for activities like checking social media or controlling music playback while concentrating on main tasks, such as writing or doing research.

### How to Activate Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1

To activate Slide Over, users can press and hold the green window control button located at the top of the screen and choose ‘Enter Slide Over.’ Although the feature has been restored, it currently only supports a single application at a time, which is a limitation when compared to earlier versions where multiple apps could be layered.

Despite this limitation, many users have discovered Slide Over to be an indispensable tool. For example, keeping Slack as a Slide Over application enables uninterrupted communication while other tasks are being performed. In the past, users needed to resize windows to fit Slack, which frequently resulted in a loss of screen space. With Slide Over, Slack remains readily available without interrupting workflow.

### Conclusion

The reinstatement of Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1 has greatly improved multitasking functions on the iPad Pro. Although there are still opportunities for enhancement, such as allowing multiple apps to be stacked, the feature has simplified task management for users. As iPadOS progresses, there is optimism that Slide Over will receive further improvements to boost productivity. For more comprehensive guidance on using Slide Over, users can consult Apple’s support documentation.

OmniOutliner 6: Significant Update Now Accessible for Trial

**OmniOutliner 6: The Next Stage in Outlining Software**

OmniGroup’s OmniOutliner, an effective outlining application initially launched in 2000, is about to undergo major enhancements with the arrival of OmniOutliner 6. This software has consistently been a preferred choice among experts in diverse areas, including developers, designers, and authors, for its capability to assist users in capturing, organizing, and arranging their ideas in a hierarchical design.

### Key Features of OmniOutliner 6

OmniOutliner 6 strives to improve user engagement across all Apple platforms, including Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro. The updated version will boast a uniform user interface and functionality, ensuring that users can effortlessly transition between devices while retaining access to advanced capabilities.

#### Omni Links

One of the key attributes in OmniOutliner 6 is **Omni Links**, which permits users to connect to both local and remote files, alongside web links. This feature employs user-created “Connected Folders,” simplifying the process of accessing files from various locations such as iCloud Drive, Dropbox, Google Drive, and local servers.

#### AI Tools

Another remarkable addition is the **AI Tools** feature, which harnesses Omni Automation plugins along with Apple’s on-device AI framework. This capability empowers users to gather information from emails, web pages, or local documents, transform that data into outlines, and export it in different formats, including Keynote presentations and blog entries.

### Additional Enhancements

OmniOutliner 6 will further provide complete support for AppleScript, refined dark mode, the capability to open multiple windows on Mac (including for the same project), shareable custom styles, resizable inline attachments, and sophisticated filtering options. These improvements are intended to optimize workflows and boost productivity for users.

### Conclusion

As OmniGroup gears up to launch OmniOutliner 6, users are invited to engage in the testing phase through TestFlight, with limited access. The new features and enhancements promise to make OmniOutliner an even more essential tool for anyone who incorporates outlining into their workflow. For further details, users can consult the release notes or join the TestFlight program to experience the forthcoming features firsthand.