Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### The Debate Over macOS Tahoe App Icons

In late 2023, the app icons launched in macOS Tahoe encountered substantial criticism from both users and reviewers. Numerous commenters labeled the icons as “awful” and “objectively poor,” which resulted in a divided reaction in a poll by 9to5Mac, where readers reflected highly varied opinions on the new design.

#### Background and Design Guidelines

Software engineer Nikita Prokopov brought attention to a significant flaw with the Tahoe icons, noting that they conflict with the principles set forth in Apple’s own Macintosh Human Interface Guidelines from 1992. These guidelines cautioned against the clutter that arises from having individual icons for each menu item, deeming such designs “unattractive.” Instead, Apple promoted a minimalist design, proposing that a reduced number of icons would improve usability.

Prokopov demonstrated this argument by sharing an image from the guidelines, juxtaposing the “unattractive” menu filled with icons against a sleeker, more efficient design. He contends that although screen resolution and clarity have improved, the primary function of icons—assisting users in quickly finding functions—has not changed. He argues that overloading menus with icons reduces their effectiveness, making it difficult for any single icon to be prominent.

#### Discrepancies and Ambiguities

The criticism goes beyond the number of icons themselves. Prokopov also pointed out variations in icon use across different applications. For example, the same function, like “New,” is represented by five different icons in various apps, causing confusion among users. Additionally, he highlighted cases where identical icons represent completely different functions, such as the icon for creating a new note in the Notes app being the same as the “edit address” icon in the Contacts app.

#### Recommended Strategies

In his blog post, Prokopov proposes that a more effective method would resemble the initial design strategies employed by Microsoft, wherein icons were designated for the most commonly used functions. He recommends decreasing the quantity of icons, combined with the application of color coding to improve clarity and usability. His post is abundant with examples and possible enhancements, making a strong argument for a reassessment of the current icon design in macOS Tahoe.

#### Summary

The conversation surrounding the macOS Tahoe app icons underscores a crucial intersection of design ideology and user experience. As Apple progresses with its software, the input from users and experts like Prokopov will be vital in influencing future versions of macOS. For those keen on a thorough analysis and proposed enhancements, Prokopov’s blog post presents a plethora of insights worth examining.

### Apple @ Work: The Future of AI with Apple Silicon

In the swiftly changing realm of technology, Apple has established itself as a frontrunner, especially with the launch of Apple Silicon. This groundbreaking architecture represents not only a significant enhancement in hardware performance but is also set to be a fundamental element in the creation of local artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. A recent episode of Apple @ Work delved into the ramifications of Apple Silicon for the future of AI, emphasizing the obstacles presented by current IT tools in managing this emerging technology.

#### The Power of Apple Silicon

Apple Silicon signifies a considerable leap in computing capability, allowing devices to carry out complex tasks more efficiently and effectively. This capacity is especially vital for local AI applications, which demand considerable processing power to assess data and make instantaneous decisions. Unlike conventional cloud-based AI solutions, local AI capitalizes on the device’s hardware to execute computations, minimizing latency and improving privacy by retaining data on the device itself.

#### Challenges for IT Management

Though Apple Silicon provides extraordinary potential for local AI, it simultaneously introduces challenges for IT departments. Existing IT tools and management systems are often not designed to meet the specific requirements of these novel devices. Organizations must evolve their strategies to guarantee they can successfully deploy, oversee, and secure Apple devices that incorporate Apple Silicon.

#### Mosyle: The Solution for Apple Device Management

As enterprises maneuver through the intricacies of incorporating Apple Silicon into their operations, Mosyle stands out as a crucial ally. Mosyle is the sole Apple Unified Platform that integrates all essential solutions to effortlessly deploy, manage, and safeguard Apple devices. With more than 45,000 organizations depending on Mosyle, it has demonstrated itself as a reliable solution for preparing millions of Apple devices for use with minimal effort and at a competitive price.

Mosyle’s platform is tailored to meet the particular needs of businesses employing Apple technology, ensuring they can fully leverage the capabilities of Apple Silicon while maintaining comprehensive management and security measures.

#### Conclusion

The future of AI is local, and Apple Silicon is leading this shift. Nonetheless, to completely benefit from this technology, organizations need to arm themselves with the appropriate tools and approaches. With Mosyle, companies can confidently harness the potential of Apple Silicon, ensuring they are ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead in the sphere of local AI.

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### Snapseed Camera: A Revival of Creativity for iOS Users

In June, Google made an unexpected comeback in the photography app market by re-launching Snapseed, but solely for iOS users. The new version, 3.11, includes an exciting feature: the Snapseed Camera, crafted to boost creativity and individual style for iPhone photographers.

#### Highlights of the Snapseed Camera

The Snapseed Camera centers around the ideas of creativity and precision, enabling users to capture photos using a range of preset film filters. These filters draw inspiration from vintage film stocks, adding a nostalgic feel to digital photography. The filters on offer include:

– **KP1**: Inspired by Kodak Portra 400
– **KP2**: Inspired by Kodak Portra 160
– **KG1**: Inspired by Kodak Gold 200
– **KE1**: Inspired by Kodak E200
– **FS1**: Inspired by Fuji Superia 200
– **FS2**: Inspired by Fuji Superia 800
– **FP1**: Inspired by Fuji Pro 400h
– **AG1**: Inspired by Agfa Optima 200
– **AS1**: Inspired by Agfa Scala 200
– **PD1**: Inspired by Polaroid 600
– **TC1**: Inspired by Technicolor

Alongside these filters, users can access their saved Looks and Edits, infusing a personal element into their photography.

#### Interface and User Experience

The camera viewfinder in Snapseed showcases a skeuomorphic design, including a rewind button animation that triggers when users switch between film styles. Users can further tailor their experience by choosing from six color themes: Editor, Dusk, Negative, Steel, Haze, and Depth. Flash controls are conveniently positioned on one side of the viewfinder, while the bottom row features options to return home and switch between front and rear cameras.

A key feature of the Snapseed Camera is that while the viewfinder presents the chosen style and intensity, grain effects are applied only after the photo is captured, ensuring a clear preview during shooting.

#### Availability and Updates

The Snapseed Camera is accessible through a Control Center shortcut or via Camera Control settings on newer iPhone models. Since its re-launch, Snapseed for iOS has undergone frequent updates, improving its capabilities and user experience. However, an updated version for Android users is currently absent, which has disappointed many.

The Snapseed Camera provides a delightful and completely free way to dive into photography, reminiscent of the early days of Instagram and Hipstamatic, making it an attractive choice for both novice and experienced photographers.

In summary, the Snapseed Camera represents an important advancement in the progression of mobile photography apps, offering users creative instruments that honor the art of photography while integrating modern technology.

Apple launched iPadOS 26.2 and macOS Tahoe 26.2 last month, bringing notable enhancements to Wi-Fi performance for certain devices. Users with compatible Macs and iPads might notice improved Wi-Fi speeds and better file transfer options.

MacRumors initially reported these upgrades, emphasizing changes in Apple’s platform deployment guide. With the updated systems, devices that are Wi-Fi 6E compatible can now take advantage of a maximum channel bandwidth of 160MHz on 5GHz networks, up from the former 80MHz limit. This advancement enables Wi-Fi 6E devices to reach throughput near peak 6GHz speeds without needing to connect to a 6GHz network. However, it’s crucial to understand that Macs will not gain from this enhancement if they’re linked to 5GHz routers constrained to 80MHz.

These upgrades result in quicker Wi-Fi speeds and higher throughput, which is especially useful for activities like large file uploads and downloads.

Devices that support Wi-Fi 6E comprise:

– MacBook Air released in 2024 or later
– MacBook Pro released in 2023 or later
– iMac released in 2023 or later
– Mac mini released in 2023 or later
– Mac Studio released in 2023 or later
– Mac Pro released in 2023 or later
– iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation), or later
– iPad Air 11-inch (M2), iPad Air 13-inch (M2), or later
– iPad mini (A17 Pro) or later

For comprehensive details on Wi-Fi specifications and supported bandwidth, users may consult Apple’s support article on its website.

For the first time in five years, the MacBook Pro is said to be getting a major redesign later this year, bringing substantial feature enhancements. This expected transformation has sparked enthusiasm among users, though certain elements may not resonate with everyone.

### M6 MacBook Pro Will Become Thinner as Part of ‘Complete Redesign’

Since 2021, the MacBook Pro has maintained a solid reputation, primarily due to the introduction of Apple silicon and the reinstatement of pro-oriented ports. Nevertheless, veteran Mac users remember the issues brought forth by the earlier design, which debuted in 2016 under Jony Ive’s direction. This version favored style over practicality, leading to a thinner and lighter device but with significant downsides:

1. The new butterfly keyboard suffered from reliability problems, such as sticky keys.
2. The elimination of all ports apart from USB-C constrained connectivity options to achieve a slim design.

This contentious design endured until 2021, much to the frustration of many users.

Currently, rumors indicate that Apple is gearing up to unveil a sleeker MacBook Pro in 2026 as part of a thorough redesign. The upcoming M6 MacBook Pro is projected to be not only lighter but also include an OLED display without a notch, touch capabilities, and possibly a C2 cellular modem. Such upgrades could mark one of the most significant evolutions for the MacBook series in years.

However, the idea of a thinner design raises concerns for some users. The triumph of the M6 model will depend on how effectively Apple balances the quest for a more elegant profile with the necessity to preserve key features. If the new design compromises ports, performance, or battery longevity, it might alienate professional users reliant on these elements.

There is optimism that Apple will steer clear of repeating the errors of the 2016 model, but only time will tell the success of this redesign.

Are you worried about the rumored adjustments to the MacBook Pro? Express your opinions in the comments.

### Apple Unveils Limited-Edition AirPods Pro 3 for Lunar New Year

Apple has formally initiated its Lunar New Year promotion, showcasing an exciting highlight: a special edition of the AirPods Pro 3 featuring a unique Year of the Horse emoji on the case. This launch follows the company’s yearly New Year Sale in Japan, which offered various products, including a distinctive AirTag.

#### The Importance of the Year of the Horse

In the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Horse is esteemed for its connection to qualities such as vitality, freedom, and autonomy. This year marks the reoccurrence of the zodiac sign, allowing Apple to embrace this cultural relevance with a themed offering.

#### Availability and Features

The limited-edition AirPods Pro 3 are up for grabs in several locations, including China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia. While the case boasts the exclusive horse emoji design, the AirPods themselves are identical to the standard edition. Customers can anticipate the same exceptional audio performance and features that define the AirPods Pro 3.

Those interested in acquiring the Year of the Horse Special Edition AirPods Pro 3 can locate them at both Apple Retail Stores and the Apple Online Store, although stocks are limited. Each customer is allowed a maximum of two units to guarantee availability for a wider audience. It’s vital to mention that exceeding this limit may result in order cancellations. In instances where replacement or repairs are necessary, standard edition AirPods Pro 3 may be issued, subject to availability.

#### Additional Offerings

In addition to the limited-edition AirPods, Apple is presenting a range of accessories featuring Year of the Horse designs. This enhances the festive atmosphere and offers fans more choices to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

#### Conclusion

The introduction of the Year of the Horse Special Edition AirPods Pro 3 illustrates Apple’s capability to merge technology with cultural festivities. With their distinctive design and commitment to quality, these AirPods are poised to become highly desirable for both Apple fans and those celebrating the Lunar New Year.

### LISEN 3-in-1 Charger: An In-Depth Look

LISEN has established itself as a prominent name in the tech accessories realm, especially with its cutting-edge offerings tailored for Apple products. One of its notable releases is the new 3-in-1 charger, which has gained recognition for its distinctive features and functional design.

#### What’s Included in the Package

Upon acquiring the LISEN 3-in-1 charger, consumers can look forward to a complete set that consists of:

– **Foldable 3-in-1 Charging Station**: Able to charge an iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch at the same time.
– **USB-C to USB-C Cable**: Guarantees compatibility with contemporary devices.
– **30-Watt USB-C Power Adapter**: Critical for reaching the maximum 15-watt fast charging speeds for Qi2. This addition is particularly valued, as numerous manufacturers typically leave out the power brick, compelling users to buy one separately.

The charger for the Apple Watch is ingeniously crafted to be stowed on the underside when not in operation, improving the product’s portability.

#### Why the Foldable Feature is Impressive

The foldable aspect of the LISEN 3-in-1 charger is among its most attractive qualities. It collapses into a compact cuboid, facilitating convenient transport without occupying significant space in a bag. This adaptability permits users to employ it as a stand for their devices while working at a desk or lay it flat for charging purposes.

The charger is also constructed with stability in focus; it is not excessively tall, which aids in preventing it from toppling over on smaller surfaces like hotel bedside tables. Moreover, the presence of an extra USB-C port on the side allows users to charge another gadget, such as a Kindle Paperwhite, without the need to locate an additional wall socket.

#### Conclusion on LISEN 3-in-1

The LISEN 3-in-1 charger is a formidable contender in the saturated arena of multi-device chargers. It successfully strikes a balance between price and functionality while guaranteeing that users receive all necessary items right from the start. Important features encompass:

– **Qi2 Support**: Provides full 15-watt wireless charging speed for compatible devices.
– **Complete Package**: Includes a 30-watt adapter, thus negating the need for further purchases.
– **Stable Build**: A weighted base stops sliding on surfaces.
– **Compact Form**: Folds down for convenient portability, with the Apple Watch charger conveniently concealed when not in operation.

For individuals keen on acquiring the LISEN 3-in-1 charger, it is accessible on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/49fCYPu) and directly from [LISEN’s website](https://lisen.com/products/lisen-3-in-1-charging-station-for-apple).

# iPadOS 26: An Important Upgrade Featuring Apple’s Journal App

iPadOS 26 represents a noteworthy upgrade designed to boost user productivity, introducing a range of new applications, including the eagerly awaited Apple Journal app.

## Apple’s Journal App Arrives on iPad with iPadOS 26

The Journal app first appeared on the iPhone in 2023 and has since been updated, but its access was restricted to iPhone users until now. With the rollout of iPadOS 26, the app is now accessible on both iPad and Mac, enabling users to experience a broader journaling journey.

For many, particularly passionate journalers, moving to a larger display with a physical keyboard is transformative. The capabilities of the iPad render it an optimal platform for journaling, offering a more enjoyable and efficient writing environment.

## New and Distinctive Features of Apple’s Journal App

A key highlight of the Journal app is its suggestions feature, which assists users in starting entries by proposing recent events, photographs, or activities. The suggestion categories include:

– **Activity**: Workouts and exercise routines.
– **Media**: Podcasts, music, videos, and more.
– **Contacts**: Individuals you often message or call.
– **Photos**: Access to your photo library, memories, and shared images.
– **Significant Locations**: Places where you spend time.
– **State of Mind**: Moods and emotions captured over time.

Furthermore, the app is compatible with Apple Pencil, enabling the inclusion of handwriting, sketches, and illustrations within journal entries.

Two prominent features introduced in iPadOS 26 are the Map View and the support for multiple journals. The Map View allows users to visualize their past entries on a map, making it simple to revisit memories linked to specific locations. At the same time, the option to create multiple journals aids users in sorting their entries by themes or periods, thereby enhancing the overall journaling experience.

For anyone considering starting a new journaling routine or exploring new apps, Apple Journal is an intriguing option that merits attention.

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, staying abreast of the most recent news and advancements is vital, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily offers a handy platform for listeners to get the top stories of the day concerning Apple and its ecosystem. This enlightening podcast is tailored for those who wish to remain aware without having to wade through numerous articles.

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9to5Mac Daily is a daily podcast that highlights the most important news stories within the Apple realm. Each episode is recorded on weekdays, guaranteeing that listeners obtain timely updates on the latest events. The podcast is available on various platforms, including [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), and via a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications.

**Content Overview**

Each episode of 9to5Mac Daily encompasses discussions on a variety of topics, including product launches, software updates, industry trends, and beyond. The podcast aims to deliver listeners a brief yet thorough summary of the day’s most significant news.

Listeners can also opt for 9to5Mac Daily Plus, which provides ad-free episodes and additional content, enhancing the listening experience. This subscription service can be accessed at [9to5mac.com/join](http://9to5mac.com/join).

**Engagement and Feedback**

9to5Mac Daily promotes listener interaction and feedback. Audiences can convey their opinions via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Furthermore, ratings and recommendations on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) assist in enhancing the show’s visibility and reach.

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For those intrigued by Apple news, 9to5Mac Daily stands as a crucial resource. With its daily updates and engaging material, it guarantees that listeners are consistently informed about the latest advancements in the Apple ecosystem. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech aficionado, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily is an excellent way to stay updated.

Apple’s long-awaited AI enhancements for Siri are finally set to be released this year. Here’s the anticipated release date for the revamped Siri.

## Major AI Revamp for Siri Anticipated in March with iOS 26.4

Bloomberg has long reported that iOS 26.4 will introduce Apple’s refreshed AI Siri. This timeframe has also been supported by code leaks from iOS 26.

At present, iOS 26.3 is undergoing beta testing, but given Apple’s historical software release patterns, we can estimate when iOS 26.4 might launch.

Here are the release dates for the prior iOS x.4 updates:

– iOS 18.4: Monday, March 31
– iOS 17.4: Tuesday, March 5
– iOS 16.4: Monday, March 27

Following this trend, the debut of iOS 26.4 and the revamped Siri **is anticipated in March**—most likely towards the end of the month.

A late March release would align with the timelines of 2025 and 2023. However, 2024 witnessed an earlier March launch for iOS 17.4, so it remains possible that Apple could unveil iOS 26.4 sooner than projected.

Ultimately, the launch timing will likely be swayed by the release of the initial beta.

iOS 18.4 and iOS 16.4 saw their first betas in mid-February, while the beta 1 for iOS 17.4 was rolled out a few weeks earlier in late January.

If we receive iOS 26.4 beta 1 in January, it could lead to an early March public launch. Conversely, if it gets postponed until mid-February, a late March release becomes more probable.

## Upcoming Features for Siri

Siri is poised for a significant renovation in iOS 26.4. Its outdated underlying framework is being updated with an LLM-based system.

In some instances, changes to the underlying code for software features might not be readily apparent to users. However, the advantages of Siri’s transition are expected to be quite noticeable.

The new LLM-powered Siri should be capable of intelligently assisting users much like chatbots such as ChatGPT and Gemini.

Additionally, it will facilitate a range of robust features that were initially planned for iOS 18 but were postponed. These encompass:

1. App Intents for hands-free operation
2. Personal contextual awareness
3. On-screen recognition

Apple has committed to ensuring that its new Siri will deliver all of this and more, rooted in the upcoming underlying framework.

Given how long it has been since the announcement of Siri’s upgrades, there will be significant anticipation for the new features. Here’s hoping that the additional time Apple is taking results in a Siri that users truly deserve.

Which upgrades for Siri in iOS 26.4 are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments.