Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

# Indie App Spotlight: Backlot – Your Premier Movie Companion

In the ever-growing realm of streaming platforms, figuring out what to watch can often seem daunting. Enter **Backlot**, an inventive app crafted to enhance your viewing journey by merging discovery, watchlists, and streaming data into one ad-free hub.

## Key Features of Backlot

### Discover Feed
At the core of Backlot is its **Discover feed**, which highlights trending films, TV series, and actors. This feature removes the inconvenience of toggling between various streaming services, allowing users to delve into content within a singular interface.

### Universal Search
Backlot also boasts a **universal search** capability, empowering users to locate specific shows and find out where they are available for streaming. This is especially handy given the constant shifts in streaming rights and accessibility.

### Watchlists
Users can curate tailored **watchlists** to bookmark content they intend to watch later. This list syncs effortlessly across all iCloud devices, ensuring that your viewing aspirations are always within reach.

### Reaction Notes
For those who relish reviewing or discussing shows, Backlot provides a feature to record reactions and notes directly within the app. This can be tremendously useful for reviewers and podcasters wanting to capture their insights promptly.

## Download the App
Backlot is accessible for free on the App Store, offering users fundamental features like the Discover feed. For those desiring the complete experience, **Backlot Pro** can be acquired for $2.99 per month, $19.99 per year, or a one-time payment of $75 for lifetime access. The app is compatible with both iPhone and iPad.

In a landscape where streaming alternatives are plentiful yet disorganized, Backlot emerges as a holistic solution for movie and TV show aficionados, simplifying the process of finding and enjoying your next favorite title.

**The Prospects of Apple Card: A Synopsis of Goldman Sachs’ Obstacles and Possible Modifications**

Since its introduction more than six years ago, Apple Card has encountered considerable difficulties for its partner bank, Goldman Sachs. As reports indicate that Goldman Sachs is contemplating an exit from the collaboration, the future of Apple Card hangs in the balance. This article summarizes the current landscape surrounding Apple Card, the financial setbacks faced by Goldman Sachs, and the prospects for a new partner.

### Goldman Sachs Financial Setbacks

Goldman Sachs is reportedly aiming to divest its Apple Card partnership, with JPMorgan Chase positioned as the primary candidate for acquisition. Other potential players, including American Express, Capital One, and Synchrony, have been noted, yet their chances of assuming control seem minimal. American Express CEO Stephen Squeri has conveyed hesitation regarding the partnership, pointing out that the existing customer demographic includes a substantial proportion of subprime borrowers.

So far, the Apple Card partnership has set Goldman Sachs back by at least $1 billion, contributing to overall consumer product losses nearing $6 billion. These setbacks are attributed not only to credit delinquencies but also to the appealing features of the Apple Card, which include no foreign transaction fees, no late fees, up to 3% cash back on partner merchants, and 0% APR financing on Apple products.

### JPMorgan Chase Acquisition

At present, JPMorgan Chase is viewed as the “preferred option” for acquiring the Apple Card partnership. However, a formal agreement has yet to be finalized. One of the main obstacles for any prospective new lender is the elevated percentage of subprime customers linked to Apple Card. The subprime rate for Chase is approximately 15%, whereas Capital One’s stands at about 31%. In contrast, Apple Card’s subprime rate is 34%, indicating a significant risk for any financial entity contemplating the partnership.

Moreover, Apple Card’s delinquency rate is around 4%, surpassing the industry average of 3.05%. For a transaction to occur, a new lender would likely need to negotiate a “substantial discount” given the current liabilities of over $20 billion.

### Apple Card Savings Account

Another facet of the conversation is the Apple Card Savings Account, which is also backed by Goldman Sachs. Although it necessitates customers to possess an Apple Card, it lacks a strong affiliation with the card itself. Customers can choose to have their Apple Card cash back directed into the savings account, but aside from that, the two offerings are not significantly linked.

Currently, Goldman Sachs continues to provide its Marcus by Goldman Sachs savings account to consumers, despite a wider withdrawal from the consumer finance sector. It is conceivable that Goldman Sachs will retain the savings account even if the credit card partnership shifts to another financial institution.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, it seems highly probable that the Apple Card partnership with Goldman Sachs will come to an end by 2026, following years of discussions with various lenders. Although the precise outcomes for Apple Card remain uncertain, the substantial number of subprime customers and the considerable financial losses indicate that changes are on the horizon. Potential modifications could involve the implementation of late fees and a reduction in the card’s generous benefits.

Should JPMorgan Chase decide against the acquisition, Capital One could emerge as a formidable alternative, especially considering its recent acquisition of Discover, which positions it favorably as both a card issuer and payment network. The future of Apple Card will hinge on how these negotiations progress in the upcoming months.

**The Advancement of Apple IT Management: Findings from the Mac Admin Survey 2026**

As we celebrate the five-year milestone of the inaugural Apple Silicon Mac, the shift to M-series chips has profoundly influenced both Apple and IT teams overseeing Apple hardware. The latest MacPaw Mac Admin Survey for 2026 uncovers significant trends in the IT domain, emphasizing the durability of Macs, the growing dependence on automation, and the incorporation of AI into everyday tasks.

### The Mac’s Longevity is Unprecedented

One of the most notable revelations from the survey is the prolonged lifespan of Macs in business settings. Almost half of those surveyed indicated that their Macs are utilized for three to five years. This durability can be linked to the efficiency of the M1 chip and its successors, which surpass past Intel hardware in terms of performance and resilience. Consequently, IT teams are pivoting their emphasis from frequent replacement cycles to sustaining productivity and reducing downtime. This transformation not only allows companies to use their budgets more strategically but also provides the opportunity to invest in advanced features and management tools.

### Achieving More with Fewer Resources

The survey shows that IT teams face the challenge of managing larger numbers of devices with limited resources. Approximately one-third of Mac administrators stated that they employ AI tools in their workflows, motivated more by necessity than by desire. As the need for support escalates, IT teams are relying on community expertise and automation to fill the resource void. Channels such as the Mac Admins Slack and Apple’s support forums are becoming crucial for troubleshooting and knowledge exchange, as teams adjust to heightened expectations amid constrained staffing.

### Security and Apple Device Management

Security continues to be a top priority for IT teams, with an 8% rise in the number of administrators seeking more straightforward patching and software update processes. As hardware reliability improves, the emphasis shifts toward maintaining a strong software environment. IT teams must navigate the intricacies of remote work, SaaS proliferation, and AI-driven threats while ensuring that Macs stay secure and updated without requiring direct user input.

### Conclusion

The MacPaw survey paints a picture of a swiftly evolving platform where Macs are enduring longer, automation is becoming vital, and AI is gradually becoming part of IT operations. Nonetheless, the issues of workforce shortages and increasing complexities remain, demanding a forward-thinking approach to IT management. As the ecosystem surrounding Apple devices transforms, IT teams must keep adjusting to fulfill the requirements of a dynamic work atmosphere.

For businesses aiming to optimize their Apple device management, Mosyle delivers a comprehensive platform that consolidates all essential solutions for the efficient and cost-effective deployment, management, and protection of Apple devices.

**The Effect of Apple Watch on New Year’s Fitness Goals**

In a recent announcement, Apple shared intriguing information on how the Apple Watch supports users in improving their workout routines during January and maintaining them for the rest of the year. This data comes from the Apple Heart and Movement Study, which included approximately 100,000 participants over four years.

Many people give up on their New Year’s fitness goals by the second Friday of January, a day known as Quitter’s Day. However, Apple Watch users show a considerably greater chance of sticking to their fitness objectives. As reported by Apple, there is a significant trend where the average daily exercise minutes for Apple Watch users not only recover in January after a holiday dip but continue to increase into the spring months.

In the first two weeks of January, more than 60% of Apple Watch users raised their daily exercise minutes by over 10% compared to their December averages. Notably, almost 80% of those who enhanced their exercise levels maintained this improvement through the latter part of January, with 90% of that group keeping elevated activity levels into February and March.

Apple also emphasized new features for Apple Fitness+ designed to encourage consistency in workout habits. These consist of multi-week programs aimed at generating momentum for users at the start of the year. Furthermore, Apple is promoting its annual “Ring in the New Year” challenge, which takes place from January 7 to January 31, urging users to close all three Activity rings for seven consecutive days.

For users utilizing Strava with an Apple Watch, a “Quit Quitting” challenge is also available within the Strava app, designed to keep participants motivated throughout January.

The findings and efforts put forth by Apple highlight the beneficial impact of the Apple Watch and Apple Fitness+ in aiding users to adhere to their New Year’s fitness goals, fostering a healthier lifestyle far beyond the initial weeks of the year.

Apple TV is poised to amplify its content in February with the launch of the film “Eternity,” featuring Elizabeth Olsen. This A24 project hit theaters in late November and has received favorable reviews from both critics and audiences for its captivating narrative and compelling performances.

“Eternity” offers a distinctive concept: in an afterlife where souls have a week to decide their eternal fate, the main character, Joan (portrayed by Olsen), faces the choice between her lifelong companion (Miles Teller) and her first love (Callum Turner), who has been patiently waiting for her for many years. This high-concept romantic comedy is predicted to strike a chord with audiences, especially with its expected release close to Valentine’s Day.

Although Apple TV has yet to specify an exact release date, it has suggested a mid-February launch, coinciding with the winter season. The film was recently featured in a roundup of forthcoming Apple TV content, showcasing the company’s dedication to broadening its cinematic range.

Alongside “Eternity,” Apple TV continues to offer a varied selection of shows and films, including well-known series like “Ted Lasso” and “Severance.” Subscriptions are offered at $12.99 monthly, with options to bundle via Apple One.

As excitement mounts for “Eternity,” viewers are invited to express their enthusiasm and plans to view the film when it debuts on Apple TV.

iOS 26.2 is the newest iPhone software upgrade, bringing various novel features that improve customization and usability. Here’s a summary of the main updates.

## 1: Enhanced Liquid Glass Slider for Lock Screen Clock

The Lock Screen is an essential element of making your iPhone personal. With iOS 26.2, Apple has improved the Liquid Glass aesthetic for the Lock Screen clock. Users can now modify the clock’s opacity with a wider slider, facilitating greater transparency or opacity than previously available. To utilize this feature, make sure your clock is set to the ‘Glass’ option and try out the slider to achieve your preferred appearance. This upgraded slider works with any font choice, although the clock size can only be modified with the default font.

## 2: New Screen Flash for Notifications

iOS 26.2 brings a fresh visual notification feature that complements the existing camera flash alert. Users can now activate a ‘Screen’ option under Settings ⇾ Accessibility ⇾ Audio & Visual ⇾ Flash for Alerts. When enabled, notifications will cause the iPhone’s screen to light up completely for a brief moment, improving visibility for incoming notifications. This feature can be used alongside the camera flash for a more significant notification impact, particularly advantageous for users who may experience hearing challenges.

## 3: Reminders Alarm Options

The Reminders app in iOS 26.2 features a new ‘Urgent’ toggle for time-sensitive reminders. This option allows users to create reminders that trigger an alarm on the Lock Screen when they are due. The alarm offers options to ‘Snooze’ or ‘Stop,’ much like a conventional alarm clock. Users can personalize this behavior in Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Reminders, where they can substitute the ‘Snooze’ option with a ‘Complete’ button. This button not only halts the alarm but also marks the reminder as done, simplifying task management for users who favor immediate action.

These enhancements in iOS 26.2 offer users improved customization opportunities and enhanced accessibility features, tailoring the iPhone experience more closely to individual preferences and requirements.

### Premium AirPods Pro 3 Introducing Cameras for Apple Intelligence Features and More

AirPods Pro 3 debuted merely a few months prior, yet speculations suggest a secondary model is on the horizon this year featuring a significant upgrade: infrared (IR) cameras. This possible enhancement is part of Apple’s aim to incorporate more artificial intelligence functionalities into their devices.

Following mixed first impressions of the AirPods Pro 3, numerous users have shared a favorable experience as they adapt to the fitting and features. The upcoming model promises advancements in sound quality and enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, meeting the desires of many users.

The expected upgrade featuring IR cameras is likely to facilitate an array of new functionalities. Insights indicate that these external cameras, in conjunction with artificial intelligence, will assist users in better comprehending their environment and offering pertinent information. Visual Intelligence is underscored as a fundamental aspect of the camera-integrated AirPods, potentially improving user engagement with their surroundings.

Moreover, there are speculations that the new model might remove the pressure-sensitive buttons on the ear stems in favor of gesture controls, although it is feasible for both features to be present. This modification could be advantageous given the rising number of features that depend on the stem buttons.

In summary, the forthcoming AirPods Pro 3 are expected to largely preserve the design and attributes of the existing model, but they will probably come with a higher price tag. This is consistent with Apple’s strategy of providing various iterations of their products, akin to the AirPods 4, which are available both with and without Active Noise Cancellation.

As the launch of the camera-integrated AirPods Pro 3 draws near, consumer curiosity is likely to intensify. Are you interested in AirPods Pro 3 with cameras? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### M1 MacBook Air Continues to Function Well After Stopping Artillery Fragment

Apple devices are known for their resilience, and the latest proof of this is particularly astonishing. A soldier from Ukraine shared an account of how his M1 MacBook Air intercepted a fragment from an artillery shell while continuing to operate effectively.

#### An Incredible Survival Tale

Most of us are fortunate enough not to find ourselves in situations where artillery shell fragments are zipping through the air. However, a soldier from the Azov Brigade seems to be an exception. He recently shared compelling evidence showcasing the toughness of the MacBook Air design. His M1 MacBook Air blocked a fragment from an artillery shell and remains in remarkable working condition.

You can observe the damage in the post below:

> “@Apple MacBook Air 2020 M1 intercepted a fragment from an artillery shell 🤙” — Лаꑭевич (@lanevychs)

Another post features a video demonstrating macOS running smoothly, despite some apparent display issues.

#### Prior Examples of Resilience

In 2022, images circulated of an iPhone that reportedly protected a Ukrainian soldier from a bullet. While this recent MacBook Air incident may not be as dramatic, it further underscores the high quality of Apple products.

What’s your most unforgettable story about the durability of Apple hardware? Share with us in the comments.

**iPadOS 26: A Revolutionary Update for the iPad**

Since its redesign in 2018, the iPad Pro has progressed notably, especially with the launch of iPadOS 26 in 2025. This update represented a crucial turning point, converting the iPad into a more competent alternative to traditional computers, resolving many of the issues that had previously limited its capabilities.

### What iPadOS 26 Truly Delivered to the iPad

The iPadOS 26 update brought forth numerous quality-of-life enhancements that collectively transformed the iPad into what feels like an entirely new device. Here are the key modifications:

#### True Windowed Multitasking

One of the most important advancements is the launch of complete windowing mode, similar to that of macOS. This feature enables users to:

– Resize windows without restrictions.
– Use Mac-style window controls.
– Keep numerous apps open at the same time (up to 12 in a single view).
– Transition between tasks more intuitively.

This revamped multitasking experience eradicates the gimmicky aspects of earlier versions like Stage Manager, simplifying the management of multiple windows and boosting productivity.

#### Files App Overhaul

The Files app underwent a significant redesign, evolving into a more sophisticated file management utility. Noteworthy enhancements include:

– Customizable column views for superior organization.
– Simplified navigation and improved information display for files and folders.
– Features that resemble a desktop-class file manager.

The inclusion of dockable folders permits users to pin frequently accessed folders, greatly enhancing workflow efficiency.

#### Background Task and Audio Source Switching

These features improve the overall user experience by enabling background tasks to operate without disrupting other activities. For instance, users can now export video files while simultaneously engaging in other projects. Furthermore, the capability to switch audio sources directly from the control center eases the management of audio inputs.

### What’s Still Lacking?

Notwithstanding these advancements, certain limitations remain intrinsic to iPadOS:

– Absence of genuine terminal access.
– No full-fledged desktop-class coding environments.
– Restricted system-level control.
– Inability to support multiple simultaneous audio sources.

Additionally, the iPad’s dependence on the App Store for software can hinder users familiar with desktop environments where applications can be directly downloaded from the internet.

### Concluding Remarks

The introduction of iPadOS 26 signifies a substantial breakthrough for the iPad, uniting the functionalities of tablets and computers. Apple has seamlessly woven Mac-like features into the iPad’s touch-first framework. This update is not merely about rendering the iPad more akin to a Mac; it’s about establishing a distinct position for the iPad within the realm of computing.

For numerous users, iPadOS 26 may finally suffice for considering the iPad as their primary computing device. However, for others, certain limitations might still present challenges. Regardless, the update has rendered the iPad more flexible and user-friendly, offering a computer-like experience even on the standard A16 iPad model.

As users further investigate the potentials of iPadOS 26, discussions regarding its viability as a primary computer will undoubtedly progress. What remains to be observed is how Apple will continue to cater to its users’ needs in subsequent updates.

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To for Daily Apple Updates and Analysis**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the latest updates is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides an effortless way to stay informed about the most important stories impacting the Apple ecosystem. The podcast is recorded every weekday, offering listeners a summary of the leading stories, insights, and conversations regarding Apple products and services.

**Where to Access**

Listeners can catch 9to5Mac Daily on multiple platforms, guaranteeing accessibility no matter personal choices. The podcast can be found on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts application](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)
– [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications.

**Content Summary**

Each episode of 9to5Mac Daily explores the latest happenings in the Apple universe, delving into various subjects from product launches to software upgrades and industry updates. The discussions aim to be both educational and captivating, providing listeners with the information they need without feeling overloaded.

**Subscription Advantages**

For those seeking a premium listening experience, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus offers numerous advantages, such as:

– Ad-free editions of every episode
– Access to exclusive content

Listeners can subscribe directly through the [9to5Mac Daily site](https://9to5mac.com/join/) to gain access to these features.

**Community Interaction**

9to5Mac Daily promotes listener participation. Fans of the podcast can express their opinions and feedback by emailing [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Additionally, listeners are encouraged to rate the podcast on sites like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) or recommend it on [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) to help broaden its audience.

**Sponsorship and Advertising**

The podcast also includes sponsorships, featuring promotions for Roborock’s top vacuums, giving listeners chances to save on sought-after items. These sponsorships support the podcast while providing value to the listeners.

**Final Thoughts**

9to5Mac Daily emerges as a trustworthy source for Apple news, merging educational content with community participation. Whether you’re a seasoned Apple user or new to the ecosystem, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily guarantees you remain up-to-date with the latest changes in the Apple realm.