Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple Introduces iOS 26.2 Beta 3 for iPhone Users

Apple has unveiled the third beta iteration of iOS 26.2 for iPhone users, accessible as an over-the-air update starting today. This update brings forth various new features and improvements aimed at enhancing the user experience.

One significant modification is the rework of the Sleep Score system. The top rating has been changed from “Excellent” to “Very High,” with readjusted thresholds for all categories. This change comes after user feedback suggested that the former scoring was seen as too lenient.

Moreover, the Apple Podcasts app has undergone substantial upgrades via AI integration. The app now automatically creates chapters, links to mentioned podcasts, and organizes related content, simplifying navigation and enjoyment of users’ favorite shows.

The Apple News app has also received a makeover, boasting a more refined layout that features quick links to popular sections, in line with Apple’s continuous efforts to enhance the user interface across its applications.

Another exciting enhancement is the extension of the AirPods Live Translation feature to countries in the European Union, increasing its accessibility and utility for users.

iOS 26.2 presents a new Liquid Glass Lock Screen slider, enabling users to tailor the translucency of the clock across various fonts, delivering a more customized aesthetic.

The Reminders app has been upgraded to include the capability to trigger alarms and timers for urgent tasks, ensuring that notifications can bypass Focus modes for maximum visibility, thereby boosting productivity.

CarPlay has introduced a feature that allows users to disable pinned conversations in the Messages app, while the Measure app has been refreshed with a new design for its level tool, inspired by the Liquid Glass look.

The official release of iOS 26.2 is anticipated in December, with continuous updates to be provided as new modifications arise in the beta versions.

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Apple Introduces macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 3 Release

**macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 3: Essential Information**

Shortly after launching macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2 for developers, Apple has now made beta 3 available. This article aims to outline what to anticipate from this new beta iteration.

### Innovations in Beta 2

In the earlier beta release, Apple unveiled a feature known as the **Edge Light effect**. This function generates a simulated light around the display’s edges during video calls, enriching the user’s visual experience. Nonetheless, apart from this enhancement, beta 2 did not present many major modifications, indicating a quieter release in terms of new functionalities.

### Installation Instructions for Beta 3

For developers keen on experimenting with macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 3, here’s the installation procedure:

1. **Backup your Mac**: Always ensure your data is protected prior to installing beta software.
2. Open **System Settings**.
3. Go to **General ⇾ Software Update**.
4. Click the ‘i’ icon adjacent to **Beta Updates**.
5. From the menu, choose **macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**.
6. Press **Done** to finalize the setup.

### Summary

As the beta testing phase progresses, developers are urged to explore the new features and offer feedback. If you observe any alterations or upgrades in beta 3, sharing your insights can aid in improving the final version. Stay tuned for more updates as we investigate the code for any significant alterations.

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Beta 3 Launched for iPadOS 26.2, tvOS 26.2, and Other Platforms

Apple has just unveiled its newest set of beta software, with developer beta 3 launching for iPadOS 26.2, tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, and more. This update reflects Apple’s persistent dedication to improving user experience across its platforms.

### New Features in Apple’s 26.2 Updates So Far

Apple has announced that iOS 26.2 along with its corresponding updates will be available in a few weeks, and the latest beta versions have been introduced. Beta 3 is being rolled out for various platforms, introducing new features that enhance both functionality and usability.

#### iPadOS 26.2

iPadOS 26.2 has brought several major features, greatly benefiting from its close integration with iOS updates. Important additions include:

– **Reminders Alarm Option**: A new capability that lets users establish alarms for reminders, improving task management.
– **AI-Generated Chapters for Apple Podcasts**: This feature automatically produces chapters for podcasts, simplifying navigation for users.
– **Offline Lyrics in Apple Music**: Users can now access lyrics even without an internet connection, enhancing the music-listening experience.

#### watchOS 26.2

The watchOS 26.2 update features upgrades to the Sleep Score feature, which now includes a revamped grading system. This enhancement aims to deliver users more precise insights into their sleep behaviors.

#### tvOS 26.2

tvOS 26.2 presents two exciting features for Apple TV 4K users:

– **User Profiles Without an Apple Account**: Users can establish profiles without the requirement of linking an Apple Account, streamlining the setup process.
– **Kids Mode in the TV App**: A dedicated mode designed for kids, ensuring a safer and more suitable viewing experience.

### Future Updates and Focus

With the rollout of beta 3, users can anticipate additional changes across Apple’s platforms. Following this beta, Apple will likely concentrate on bug fixes and performance enhancements. Typically, significant releases like iOS 26.0 go through lengthy beta cycles, while smaller updates like 26.2 usually have about four betas before reaching the Release Candidate stage. As a result, user-facing new features may be restricted in forthcoming releases.

### Community Feedback

Apple encourages users to provide feedback on their experiences with beta 3 for iPadOS 26.2, tvOS 26.2, or any other updates. Community insights are crucial for refining these updates.

In summary, Apple’s beta 3 for its 26.2 updates features a variety of new functionalities aimed at enhancing user experience across its devices. As the official release draws near, users can anticipate a more refined and feature-rich environment.

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Possible Increase in Cost for Next Year’s AirPods Pro: Justifications for Backing

### Premium AirPods Pro 3 May Arrive Next Year for Almost $299

Since their release in 2019, AirPods Pro have been beloved by Apple users, consistently priced at $249 over the last six years. Nonetheless, rumors indicate that Apple is set to unveil a more upscale version of the AirPods Pro 3 in 2026, likely costing $280 or more, with some estimates suggesting a price tag of $299. This upcoming variant is anticipated to incorporate infrared cameras, boosting its functionalities with AI features.

### Enhancing One of Apple’s Top Products Further

The AirPods Pro 3 have established themselves as an essential element of everyday life for numerous users, offering ease of use and superior sound quality. The expected high-end model generates excitement among regular users of these earbuds, as it intends to expand the product’s capabilities. Although the exact functionalities provided by the IR cameras are not yet specified, the assumption is that Apple will deliver intriguing AI or visual intelligence features that warrant the higher pricing.

The launch of a premium model in addition to the regular AirPods Pro 3 could appeal to a broader audience, permitting those interested in advanced features to choose the pricier option while keeping the original model available at its existing price. This approach could benefit both Apple and its users, as it paves the way for new innovation in a product that is already well-loved and valued.

### Conclusion

The anticipated debut of a premium AirPods Pro 3 model underscores Apple’s dedication to enhancing user satisfaction and product capabilities. As the market for wireless audio devices progresses, introducing sophisticated features may reinforce the AirPods Pro’s status as a top pick for consumers seeking high-quality audio solutions.

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Current Promotions: $150 Discount on M5 MacBook Pro, $50 Discount on Apple Watch Series 11, Savings on Powerbeats Pro 2, Trail Loop, Apple Pencil Pro, and Additional Items

The official Week 3 Black Friday promotions are in effect, featuring noteworthy price reductions on a range of Apple products. Key deals consist of discounts of up to $400 on MacBook models, the first major markdown for the Apple Watch Series 11, and AirPods 4 offered at a record low of $85. The M4 MacBook Air has experienced a price cut of $250, while the M5 MacBook Pro boasts a discount of nearly $150 from its retail price. Furthermore, Powerbeats Pro 2 are now reduced by up to $138, and select Apple Watch Ultra models are also available at their lowest prices.

### Discounts on Apple Watch Series 11
Amazon has rolled out considerable savings on the Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + Cellular variants, with discounts approaching $50 available for both the 42mm and 46mm sizes. This represents the first major price slash since the watch’s debut, making it an appealing choice for buyers. Previous markdowns on the Apple Watch SE 3 and Ultra 3 were observed, but the Series 11 offers are especially noteworthy.

### Apple Pencil Pro Price Reduction
The Apple Pencil Pro is now offered at one of its lowest prices on record, with Amazon Resale listing it for $62.65. This signifies a substantial drop from its usual price of $129, presenting an attractive option for those seeking a premium stylus for their iPads. The item is protected by Amazon’s 30-day return policy, allowing for a worry-free purchase.

### Savings on M5 MacBook Pro
The M5 MacBook Pro configurations are showcasing unprecedented price cuts, with savings nearing $150 on the entry-level models. These deals rank among the most favorable prices recorded for Apple’s latest laptops, particularly as Black Friday draws closer. Although additional discounts may be forthcoming, the current offers are significant for those intending to shop prior to the holiday season.

### Apple Watch SE 3 at Record Low
The new Midnight Apple Watch SE 3 is presently available at its cheapest price of $199.99, marking a notable decrease from its standard price of $249. This variant is especially attractive for those in search of an economical smartwatch that still encompasses numerous features found in premium models, such as health monitoring and connectivity capabilities.

### Key Attributes of the Apple Watch SE 3
– **Health Essentials**: Features temperature sensing and sleep tracking functionalities.
– **Battery Life**: Delivers an 18-hour battery lifespan with rapid charging options.
– **Always-On Display**: Permits users to view the time and watch face without the need to raise their wrist.
– **Fitness Tracking**: Offers various workout tracking features and real-time data.
– **Connectivity**: Facilitates texting, calling, and notifications via GPS or Wi-Fi.

In summary, Week 3 of Black Friday is offering shoppers outstanding chances to save on beloved Apple products. With significant discounts on MacBooks, Apple Watches, and accessories, consumers are urged to capitalize on these deals before inventory depletes.

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Apple Introduces iMessage Sticker Collection for Newly Acquired Game

### Sneaky Sasquatch Introduces iMessage App by Apple

The market for third-party iMessage applications has mostly dwindled, yet Apple appears eager to keep it alive. Recently, the company launched a new iMessage sticker collection for its Arcade game, Sneaky Sasquatch.

This past weekend, the Sneaky Sasquatch Sticker Pack was released on the App Store as a complimentary download. Drawing inspiration from the popular Apple Arcade game, this sticker collection features more than 50 iMessage stickers themed around the game, showcasing the main character, Sneaky Sasquatch, displaying a range of typical emoji-like emotions.

What prompted Apple to create and launch a sticker collection for an Arcade game? The answer is rooted in Apple’s recent purchase of RAC7, the two-person development team that created Sneaky Sasquatch. Earlier this year, Apple suggested that it recognized a distinctive chance to assist the team in expanding its game further on Apple Arcade.

With Sneaky Sasquatch now officially under Apple’s wing, it is probable that we will witness more expansions of the game, thanks to the extra resources Apple is able to offer.

Apple Arcade is accessible as an independent service for $6.99/month or as part of the Apple One package. It provides access to over 200 games without ads or in-app purchases.

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Ulysses Unveils Innovative Liquid Glass Style and Extra Functions

### Ulysses App Update: Adopting Liquid Glass Aesthetics

Today, a major update has been launched for the widely-used writing application Ulysses, featuring a new Liquid Glass aesthetic that improves user interaction across Mac, iPhone, and iPad devices. The Ulysses team refers to this update as a “huge” enhancement, asserting, “It’s still the same app, just enhanced and even more stunning than previously.”

#### Key Features of the Liquid Glass Aesthetic

The updated Liquid Glass aesthetic is seamlessly integrated throughout various elements of the app, including:

– **Thorough Updates**: Updates have been applied to the library, dashboard, Quick Open, toolbars, buttons, and image, link, and annotation popovers.
– **Adjustable Dashboard**: Users now have the capability to resize the dashboard on both Mac and iPad.
– **Split Interface on iPad**: The app enables users to display both the sheet list and dashboard at the same time on iPad.
– **Improved Editor Functionality**: The editor incorporates a large bottom inset (Overscroll), providing smoother transitions between reading and editing, particularly when utilizing the on-screen keyboard.
– **New Sheet Initiation on iPhone**: Users can generate new sheets directly from the Library on iPhone, which will be organized into the main Inbox or “Project › Extras › Pending.”
– **More Visible Close Button**: The on-screen keyboard on iPhone now features a more prominent close button.
– **Revamped App Icon**: The app icon has been reimagined to match the updated design.

#### Further Enhancements

In addition to the Liquid Glass aesthetic, the update brings a variety of improvements such as:

– **Navigation Enhancements**: Users will notice numerous navigation improvements and new swipe gestures.
– **Organized Menus**: Menus have been rearranged for improved accessibility.
– **Spotlight and Shortcuts Integration**: New links with Spotlight and Shortcuts facilitate easier automation and faster access to key Ulysses features.

For a detailed overview of today’s Ulysses update release notes, users can check the [Ulysses website](https://ulysses.app/release-notes/). The app can be downloaded from the [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ulysses-writing-app/id1225570693) or via

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How to Convert an Aged iMac into a Studio Display

### Turning Your iMac into a Studio Display: A Detailed Guide

In 2009, Apple launched a feature known as Target Display Mode, which enabled iMacs to serve as external monitors for other Macs, especially MacBooks. This feature was a fantastic option for users wanting to optimize their display functionality. However, with the advent of the late 2014 iMac, Apple phased out this feature, leaving many users looking for alternatives.

For owners of newer iMacs, there are applications that can provide similar capabilities. Nonetheless, tech enthusiast Quinn Nelson from Snazzy Labs has embraced a more ambitious challenge: transforming an old iMac into a fully operational studio display. This article delineates the steps, the required components, and the expertise needed for this endeavor.

#### The Conversion Process

Transforming an iMac into a studio display isn’t for the timid. It necessitates a blend of technical abilities and a readiness to invest in various components. Here’s what you should be aware of:

1. **Essential Components**:
– **Display Driver**: Crucial for connecting the iMac’s display with external devices.
– **Audio Board**: To ensure audio output from the display.
– **Power Supply Unit**: Required to power the display’s components.
– **Fan Controller**: To regulate the cooling system of the display.
– **Transformer**: For voltage control and energy management.
– **Adhesives**: For securing parts during assembly.

2. **Necessary Skills**:
– **Electronics Knowledge**: Understanding how to disassemble devices, solder, crimp, and splice wires is essential.
– **Testing and Troubleshooting**: Capability to identify and resolve problems that may occur throughout the conversion.

3. **Cost-Effectiveness**:
– Although the conversion entails an initial investment in parts and tools, it can yield a high-quality display for a fraction of the price of a new Apple Studio Display. Even if the resolution may not be equivalent to that of the Studio Display, numerous users indicate that the quality exceeds that of monitors in a similar price range.

#### Resources and Instructions

For those eager to take on this project, extensive resources are accessible. Quinn Nelson has assembled illustrated instructions and guides that can be viewed

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Leaked details indicate forthcoming improvements in Apple’s iPhone accessories.

# Future iPhone Cases Might Feature ‘Touch Interfaces’

This autumn, Apple revealed an unusually extensive range of official iPhone accessories, indicating a notable shift in its strategy for accessory design. Among the latest releases, the company launched the iPhone Air and a significant redesign for the iPhone 17 Pro, along with a diverse selection of accessories. Importantly, Apple has broadened its accessory portfolio beyond the typical few case choices, offering various innovative products, including the recently introduced iPhone Pocket special-edition accessory.

## A New Direction for iPhone Accessories

Apple’s commitment to iPhone accessories seems to be increasing, with a recent leak hinting that the company might have even larger ambitions ahead. Leaker Instant Digital recently relayed information suggesting that Apple is poised to transform protective cases from simple decorative elements into “second touch interfaces” for the iPhone. This advancement could boost the functionality of the iPhone Pro models, making them even more desirable for consumers.

## The Potential of Touch Interfaces

The concept of embedding touch interfaces into iPhone cases is captivating. If Apple successfully realizes this technology, it could change the way users engage with their devices. Touch-sensitive cases could enable extra controls, shortcuts, and features that improve the overall user experience. This would not only give Apple a competitive advantage over third-party accessory makers but also foster a more unified ecosystem for Apple users.

## The Market Opportunity

With millions of iPhones sold annually, a substantial number of devices are shielded by protective cases. This creates a lucrative opportunity for Apple to capture a larger segment of the accessory market, which has historically been led by third-party firms. By incorporating innovative features into its cases, Apple could not only elevate revenue but also enhance the user experience, further reinforcing its brand loyalty.

## Conclusion

As Apple continues to investigate new opportunities for iPhone accessories, the possibility of touch interfaces in cases signifies an exhilarating advancement. If implemented effectively, this innovation could enhance iPhone functionality and reshape user interaction. The tech community is keenly anticipating further updates from Apple regarding these prospective advancements in accessory technology. Are you interested in a smart iPhone case featuring touch interfaces?

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X Chat Debuts on iPhone with End-to-End Encryption, Voice and Video Calling, Editing Features, and More Enhancements

### X Chat: A New Chapter in Secure Messaging on X

The shift from Twitter to X signifies a major advancement in the messaging features of the platform. The launch of X Chat brings not only a rebranding but also an improvement in user privacy and security through the adoption of end-to-end encryption (E2EE).

#### Improved Security with End-to-End Encryption

In the past, Twitter’s direct messages (DMs) were encrypted, but they did not offer genuine end-to-end encryption. This indicated that although messages were protected during their journey, they were still accessible by the company or possibly by malicious entities who breached its servers. X Chat resolves this issue by guaranteeing that only the sender and receiver have access to the messages, making it considerably more secure.

#### New Features of X Chat

X Chat is being introduced on iPhone and the web, with an Android version planned for the future. The innovative messaging feature includes:

– **Voice and Video Calls**: Users are now able to participate in real-time dialogues beyond mere text.
– **Document Sharing**: Conveniently share files and media within conversations.
– **Message Control**: Users can modify, remove, or designate messages to vanish after a specified duration.
– **Notifications for Screenshots**: Users can opt to receive alerts if someone captures a screenshot of their chat or prevent them from doing so.

Despite these improvements, the rollout has encountered delays, especially regarding the implementation of E2EE for group messages.

#### Group Messaging and Metadata Issues

As stated in X’s help section, group messages and media are now encrypted, boosting the security of discussions among several users. Nevertheless, it is essential to highlight that related metadata, such as details regarding the recipients, remains unencrypted. This poses potential privacy issues, as metadata can disclose critical information about communication behaviors.

#### Possible Vulnerabilities

Interestingly, X has recognized that a malicious insider could still access an encrypted chat. This situation showcases a limitation of E2EE, which is intended to guard against external threats but may not entirely protect against internal dangers. The reference to the “Ghost proposal” by UK security agencies further underlines the challenges of ensuring comprehensive security in digital communications.

#### Conclusion

X Chat signifies a significant move toward bolstering user privacy and security on the platform. With its comprehensive features and dedication to encryption, it seeks to offer a more secure messaging experience. However, users should stay informed about the limitations and possible vulnerabilities related to the new system. As X advances, it will be vital for the platform to tackle these issues to uphold user confidence and safety.

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