AllYouCanTech

Spotify Unveils Audio Previews and Instant Music Sharing Capabilities for Instagram Stories and Notes

Spotify is elevating how users share their music on Instagram with the launch of two new global features. These enhancements are designed to foster a more engaging and interactive experience for those who love to share their musical preferences with friends.

### Audio Previews in Stories

One of the key features is the addition of audio previews when users share tracks in their Instagram Stories. This implies that when a user posts a song, a brief audio snippet will automatically accompany the post. Friends viewing the Story can listen to this preview instantly and have the choice to tap on the music sticker, which will lead them to the complete track on Spotify. Moreover, tapping the song title will direct users to Instagram’s audio page, where they can discover related Reels or save the track to their Spotify “Liked Songs.”

### Real-time Music Sharing in Notes

Another noteworthy update is the real-time music sharing capability in Instagram Notes. This feature enables Notes to automatically display the currently playing track or the subsequent track within a 30-minute timeframe. Friends can react to these updates or save the song directly to their library. Additionally, Spotify has unveiled a new sharing option that streamlines the posting of any track directly to Notes, improving the connection between the two platforms.

These features not only simplify how users share their music choices but also stimulate interaction among friends, nurturing a community of music enthusiasts.

In conjunction with these updates, Instagram is also introducing a new opportunity for creators to link multiple Reels in a sequence. This adjustment aims to facilitate viewer engagement with related content, enriching the overall user experience on the platform.

As Spotify continues to evolve, it recently revealed a new feature similar to Apple Music’s AutoFix, which is anticipated to debut with iOS 26. This initiative underscores the ongoing rivalry between music streaming services to enhance their integration with social media platforms. Additionally, Spotify has recently raised prices for paid subscribers globally, signaling a shift in its business strategy as it seeks to improve its service offerings.

For further details about these new features from Spotify, you can read the complete announcement

FOX Unveils New Streaming Platform, Augmenting Apple’s TV App Features

**Brand New FOX One Streaming Service Completely Integrates with Apple’s TV App**

The debut of FOX One signifies a major advancement in the streaming arena, particularly for enthusiasts of live sports and news. As one of two significant new streaming platforms launching today, FOX One fills a persistent void in the market, especially for those who have missed FOX content in the age of streaming.

Traditionally, leading networks such as CBS, NBC, and Disney have leveraged streaming through services like Paramount+, Peacock, and Disney+. However, FOX has notably been absent, leaving NFL fans and other viewers who seek live content at a disadvantage. The release of FOX One, available for $19.99 each month, seeks to amend this by delivering an all-inclusive package that features sports, news, and entertainment, with a strong focus on live broadcasts.

A standout aspect of FOX One is its complete integration with Apple’s TV app. This integration enables users to effortlessly browse content, save shows to their watchlist, and enjoy a more unified viewing experience directly from the Apple TV app. This presents a significant benefit for Apple users, as it improves the app’s functionality and offers a centralized hub for accessing various streaming platforms.

Alongside the rollout of FOX One, ESPN has introduced its own streaming service, which also integrates with the Apple TV app. This development further enriches the landscape of supported streaming services, which already encompasses popular platforms such as Disney+, HBO Max, Paramount+, and Peacock. Nonetheless, Netflix remains a prominent outlier, as it persists in prioritizing its own app development and has yet to collaborate with Apple for integration.

As streaming services continue to advance, the introduction of FOX One and its compatibility with the Apple TV app signifies a favorable trend for consumers in search of varied content options. With an increasing focus on live programming and user-friendly access, FOX One is set to become an essential resource for viewers eager to stay connected with their preferred sports and news broadcasts.

AirPods Aid Traveler in Retrieving Stolen Wallet, Operating Like AirTags

### AirPods Assist in Locating Stolen Purse in Italy

Karis McElroy narrated an incredible incident on TikTok regarding how her mother and stepfather became victims of pickpocketing during their visit to Venice, Italy. The couple found themselves surrounded by three individuals on the street, and when they returned to their Airbnb, McElroy’s mother found her backpack had been unzipped. Inside the bag were missing her water bottle, wallet, and purse, which held her passport, credit cards, and cash.

Luckily, her AirPods were also in the bag. In a desperate effort to retrieve the stolen belongings, McElroy’s mother and stepfather activated the ‘Find My Friends’ feature to trace the AirPods’ location. This led them back to the three potential thieves.

While they awaited the arrival of the police, McElroy’s mother confronted the group. Although one suspect escaped with the purse, it was later discarded. With help from law enforcement in both Italy and the United States, the stolen belongings were ultimately returned to an airport liaison office before being reunited with their rightful owner.

### How AirPods Integrate with the Find My Network

Although AirTags are specifically engineered for tracking items, a number of Apple products, including certain AirPods models, can offer similar capabilities via the Find My network. Supported AirPods can emit a Bluetooth signal that nearby Apple devices pick up, sending the location back to the owner’s Find My app. This enables users to track their AirPods even when they aren’t actively connected to an iPhone or iPad.

When the Find My network is enabled, supported AirPods can show up in the Find My app for as long as 24 hours after they were last paired with a device, even if they are out of range. This feature is available for AirPods 3, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, all AirPods Pro versions, and AirPods Max.

While AirPods can aid in recovering misplaced items, AirTags remain the most dependable choice for tracking. Unlike AirPods, AirTags are specifically tailored for this task, featuring a user-replaceable battery, a built-in speaker for locating them, and ultra-wideband precision tracking on compatible iPhones. Moreover, AirTags remain visible in the Find My app for a longer period than the 24-hour timeframe provided by AirPods. However, in cases of a misplaced bag, AirPods can serve as a useful resource, particularly within the initial 24-hour window.

Google Playfully Mocks Apple During the Pixel 10 Launch Event

**Google Pixel 10 Launch Event: A Bold Leap Forward**

The recent Made by Google event revealed the eagerly awaited Pixel 10, demonstrating a significant show of confidence from the tech giant. Led by Jimmy Fallon, the event was infused with humor, mainly aimed at Apple, as Google showcased the fresh features and enhancements of the Pixel 10.

From the very beginning, Google’s confidence was evident. The company adopted a daring stance, openly mocking Apple, which has become a consistent aspect of their marketing approach. Rick Osterloh, Google’s SVP, commenced the event with a nod to “broken promises,” referencing delays in Apple’s AI progress. He underscored that Google’s Gemini AI is a revolutionary tool, claiming it delivers unmatched assistance on smartphones.

Osterloh also reminded attendees that the Pixel first introduced Car Crash Detection back in 2019, well ahead of Apple. This claim was part of a larger narrative that cast Google as a pioneer in the smartphone arena, contrasting with Apple’s more reserved tactics.

The event proceeded with Fallon and SVP Adrienne Lofton conversing about Google’s product array. Lofton made a subtle dig at Apple’s restrictive ecosystem, asserting that Android is “the most open platform that’s built for genuine freedom of choice.” This notion resonated with many in attendance, especially those who prioritize flexibility in their tech selections.

A key highlight was the debut of Pixelsnap, a feature that enables the Pixel 10 series to seamlessly work with Apple’s MagSafe accessories. Lofton confidently expressed that Google embraces “everybody in the game,” implying that they are undeterred in competing directly with Apple. She also tackled the “green bubble” controversy, dismissing it as an outdated topic in the era of RCS (Rich Communication Services), which both platforms now endorse.

Lofton expressed the significance of communication in today’s mobile environment, emphasizing that RCS offers a unified text standard, improving the messaging experience across platforms. Her comments were aimed at reassuring potential switchers from iPhone to Pixel that they would maintain connectivity with friends and family.

The event, while sprinkled with humor and light-hearted digs at Apple, also centered on the remarkable software capabilities of the Pixel 10. The overall vibe was one of enthusiasm and innovation, a refreshing change from the often-overlooked launches of Android devices in the past.

In summary, the Pixel 10 launch event represented a notable occasion for Google, exemplifying a confident and assertive stance in the competitive smartphone landscape. With its combination of humor and innovation, Google is unmistakably positioning itself as a serious contender, eager to disrupt the status quo and transform the user experience in mobile technology.

Present Offers: 32GB M4 Mac Mini Price Reduction, $900 Savings on M2 Max Mac Studio, Up to $674 Savings on iPhone 15/16 Pro, and Additional Deals

**9to5Toys Lunch Break: Thrilling Offers on Apple Goods and Accessories**

The newest installment of the 9to5Toys Lunch Break presents a selection of captivating offers on Apple goods, featuring the M4 Mac mini, M2 Max Mac Studio, and iPhones, along with notable markdowns on accessories.

### Uncommon Offer on M4 Mac Mini

Amazon has reduced prices on the M4 Mac mini, with options beginning at just **$499**. Noteworthy is an uncommon deal on a unit with **32GB of RAM** and a **512GB SSD**, priced at **$1,099**, which represents a **$100 discount** from its usual price of **$1,199**. This offer is especially attractive as discounts on 32GB configurations are rare. The base model, fitted with **16GB of RAM** and **256GB of storage**, is also available for **$499**, offering superb value for those in search of a powerful yet budget-friendly desktop option.

### Amazon’s $900 Price Reduction on M2 Max Mac Studio

Another feature is the **M2 Max Mac Studio**, currently available for **$899** in Renewed Premium condition, showcasing a substantial **$900 discount** off its initial price of **$1,799**. This variant boasts a 12-Core CPU and a 30-Core GPU, rendering it an excellent choice for professionals needing high performance. This deal has gained popularity, selling out rapidly in the past, so potential buyers should move quickly.

### Price Cuts on iPhones

For anyone looking for a new smartphone, the **black 1TB iPhone 16 Pro** is now offered at **$1,029**, which is **$470 off** the normal retail price. This model has experienced price variations, but this ongoing deal is among the best available. Other color options, such as Natural, White, and Desert Titanium, are also accessible at comparable discounts.

### Accessory and Charging Offers

Alongside Apple products, there are noteworthy savings on accessories. A remarkable offer includes the **1TB 11-inch M3 iPad Air**, now priced at **$889.70**, a reduction of **$360** from its listed price of **$1,249**. This price drop signifies the lowest ever recorded for this configuration, presenting an excellent chance for those looking to enhance their tablet.

### Sony Headphone Discounts

Finally, Sony is hosting a back-to-school headphone sale, offering discounts on sought-after models starting at **$45**. This sale features various in-ear and over-ear headphones, with added savings available via promo codes on selected items.

### Conclusion

With these thrilling deals on Apple goods and accessories, now is an ideal moment for consumers to capitalize on significant savings. Whether upgrading a desktop, smartphone, or headphones, the current offers provide plenty of opportunities for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.

Apple TV+ Raises Monthly Subscription Fee to $12.99 Starting Today

Apple has revealed a rise in the monthly subscription fee for Apple TV+ within the United States and certain international regions. Starting immediately, the subscription will be priced at $12.99, an increase from the former cost of $9.99. Current subscribers will see this price adjustment 30 days after their next renewal date, while prices for annual subscriptions and the Apple One services bundle will stay the same.

In a press release, Apple noted the growth of its original content library since the inception of Apple TV+. The company underscored that Apple One provides a streamlined approach to access all of Apple’s subscription services in a single plan at a competitive price. Subscribers can share their plan with up to six individuals through Family Sharing.

Although Apple has not released specific viewing statistics for Apple TV+, there are signs of an uptick in its popularity. For instance, the viewership for the series “Severance” soared after the launch of its second season, attaining the fifth position on the Nielsen US streaming chart. In its recent earnings report, Apple noted that overall viewership for TV+ rose by strong double digits compared to the previous year.

Apple TV+ has also received accolades within the awards arena, with “Severance” and “The Studio” garnering numerous Emmy nominations this year. The outcomes of these nominations are set to be disclosed on September 15.

Apple TV+ sets itself apart from competing streaming services by providing a single subscription level that encompasses 4K HDR and Spatial Audio quality, all provided without advertisements.

Looking to the future, Apple has an impressive array of new releases lined up for the remainder of 2025, including the fourth season of “The Morning Show” on September 17 and “Slow Horses” on September 24. Moreover, the highly-anticipated series “Pluribus,” from the creator of “Breaking Bad,” will premiere on November 7, along with new films such as “Highest 2 Lowest” and “The Lost Bus.”

For an in-depth schedule of forthcoming content, Apple TV+ users can consult the detailed release schedule guide available online.

HBO Unveils Fresh Harry Potter Immersive Adventure on Apple Vision Pro

HBO Max has consistently supported Apple Vision Pro since the beginning, providing a comprehensive native app for visionOS that includes an immersive Game of Thrones environment. Recently, HBO revealed an enhancement to the visionOS app, introducing a new immersive setting: the Hogwarts Great Hall.

The Hogwarts Great Hall environment will appeal to Harry Potter enthusiasts, as it stands as one of the most recognizable sites within the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The immersive experience on Apple Vision Pro offers distinct modes for Day and Night, enabling users to fully enjoy the magnificence of the Great Hall, complete with its stunning architecture, floating candles, and lengthy tables. While exploring the HBO Max app in this setting, users will also experience ambient sound effects typical of the Hogwarts Great Hall.

To access this new environment, users should download the latest version of the HBO Max app on their Apple Vision Pro. It is essential to have visionOS 2.6 and HBO Max 6.2.0 or newer to experience the Hogwarts Great Hall.

iOS 26 Brings Highly Anticipated Functionality for Simplified Credit Card Access

# Making Payments on Your iPhone: The Updated AutoFill Feature for Credit Cards in iOS 26

Making payments on your iPhone is straightforward with Apple Pay. However, there are occasions when you must enter credit card information on a website or in a form, which can be tedious. Thankfully, iOS 26 presents a fix with enhanced AutoFill support for credit cards.

## The Challenge with Accessing Saved Credit Cards

iOS 26 delivers considerable advancements to Apple Wallet, including a capability that lets users manually store complete credit card information for their Apple Pay cards. However, Apple has historically operated a distinct system within Safari that retains all credit card details.

This Safari function uses AutoFill to suggest saved credit cards when inputting payment information on a website. Unfortunately, users frequently discover that these suggestions are absent when they are most needed. This problem may stem from websites not following Apple’s guidelines for designating payment fields.

Consequently, many users often face scenarios where they require credit card information for online forms and must manually find and enter it. Luckily, iOS 26 resolves this issue.

## The Fix: Improved AutoFill Menu in iOS 26

In iOS 26, Apple has introduced a new feature to the systemwide AutoFill menu. Regardless of the application in use or the type of field being filled, users can now retrieve all saved Safari credit cards via this menu.

This menu appears when tapping inside a text field and has historically been known as the ‘copy/paste menu’ or ‘contextual menu.’ Previously, AutoFill provided options for Contacts, Passwords, and Scan Text. Now, Credit Cards has been added as a fourth option, enabling users to access saved credit card information whenever necessary—removing the need for manual entry.

Are you thrilled to see the AutoFill menu now accommodating credit cards in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Vivo Unveils Vision Pro Replica Available for $1,400 and Weighing 398g

Apple’s Vision Pro is an impressive piece of technology, but its $3,400 price tag indicates that even CEO Tim Cook recognizes it as a specialized product, and the over 600g weight leads many to find it uncomfortable to wear for more than an hour.

Chinese manufacturer Vivo has sought to remedy both concerns with a design that closely resembles Apple’s spatial computer.

## Vision Pro Price and Comfort

The primary grievances users have regarding Vision Pro have been its price and comfort. Cook acknowledged last year that the product was not likely to appeal to a broad audience at its current cost, labeling it as “tomorrow’s technology today.” Those who opted to purchase one often report discomfort, feeling too hot and heavy after wearing it for more than thirty to sixty minutes. This was certainly my own perspective after trying it.

## Vivo Vision

Today, Vivo has introduced what it refers to as the discovery edition of the Vivo Vision, a near-exact replica of Vision Pro. Not only does the device closely resemble Apple’s headset in design, but it seems to mimic much of the user interface and high-resolution graphics.

> The Vivo Vision Discovery Edition operates on OriginOS Vision, facilitating natural and intuitive interactions. Information is presented seamlessly in the surrounding environment, allowing users to transition from traditional “tap-through-screen” interactions to “move-and-pinch” gestures. With high-precision eye-tracking at 1.5°, 26 degrees of freedom for fingertip gesture recognition, and a vertical tracking range of 175°, users can enjoy intuitive and responsive controls. Moreover, its Dual Micro-OLED screens offer 8K binocular resolution, 94% DCI-P3 color coverage, and DeltaE At just 398g, with a height of 83 mm and a thickness of 40 mm, it is 26% smaller than the industry average, enhancing overall comfort.

While the company has not officially disclosed a price for the device, Gizmochina reports that company representatives have suggested it will be priced around 10,000 yuan ($1,400).

## It’s Not Real Competition

What Vivo Vision evidently lacks is integration within the Apple ecosystem. It also seems that it may only be available for sale in China. The company has announced that there will be demo sessions conducted in 12 authorized stores throughout major Chinese cities, encouraging potential buyers to test it before making a purchase.

Meta Charged with Bypassing Apple Privacy Protocols and Dismissing Employee Who Notified It

**Meta’s Reported Evasion of Apple’s Privacy Safeguards: A Contentious Matter**

A previous product manager at Meta, Samujjal Purkayastha, has unveiled serious accusations against the social media behemoth, alleging that the firm bypassed Apple’s privacy safeguards and deceived advertisers. This disclosure follows Apple’s launch of App Tracking Transparency (ATT) in 2021, which necessitates user approval for tracking across applications.

### Overview of App Tracking Transparency

Apple’s ATT initiative was established to bolster user privacy by permitting users to refuse tracking. Before this, Meta depended significantly on targeted advertising, which necessitated monitoring users across different apps to effectively aim at certain demographic groups. After the enactment of ATT, a notable portion of users chose to opt out of tracking, resulting in forecasts of considerable revenue declines for companies such as Meta.

### Accusations Against Meta

Purkayastha contends that, notwithstanding the rollout of ATT, Meta devised methods to identify Apple users who had rejected consent for app tracking. This purported evasion was allegedly aimed at diminishing an estimated $10 billion revenue shortfall that the company encountered due to diminished tracking capabilities.

According to Purkayastha’s submissions, a “covert and secretive” team within Meta participated in “deterministic matching,” which involved associating user information with other identifiable data to monitor users’ actions across the internet without their consent. He claims this practice directly contravenes Apple’s privacy regulations.

### Internal Issues and Termination

Purkayastha maintains that he raised these issues internally several times, only to be terminated from his role. He has subsequently brought his case to an employment tribunal, alleging wrongful dismissal for exposing these actions. However, Meta refutes any misconduct, asserting that Purkayastha was dismissed for unrelated matters.

### Consequences for Advertising and Legal Fallout

The ramifications of these accusations surpass internal company policies. Meta’s dependence on personalized advertising indicates that any breach of privacy laws could result in significant legal consequences, including class action lawsuits. Following the initial claims of employing workarounds to monitor users, a class action lawsuit was lodged against Meta, further complicating the company’s legal situation.

### Summary

As the tribunal gets ready for a comprehensive hearing later this year, the resolution of Purkayastha’s case could have extensive implications for Meta and its advertising strategies. The convergence of privacy, user consent, and corporate accountability remains a debated topic in the technology sector, especially as companies navigate the changing terrain of digital privacy regulations.