Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### Apple Overtakes Samsung in Smartphone Market Share by 2025

Following a competitive two-year span where Apple and Samsung were almost even in smartphone market share, recent statistics suggest that Apple has gained the upper hand. A market intelligence report reveals that by the conclusion of 2025, Apple attained a 20% share of the global smartphone market, outpacing Samsung, which retained an 18% share.

#### Year-on-Year Growth

Apple’s rise in smartphone shipments was particularly remarkable, exhibiting a year-on-year increase of 10%, double that of Samsung. This surge was attributed to Apple’s growing footprint in emerging and mid-tier markets, coupled with a more robust product lineup. Senior Analyst Varun Mishra noted that the demand for Apple devices was fueled by the successful rollout of the iPhone 17 series, alongside the sustained popularity of the iPhone 16, especially in markets such as Japan, India, and Southeast Asia.

#### Impact of the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16

The iPhone 17 series was instrumental in Apple’s market triumph, gaining substantial momentum in the fourth quarter post-launch. At the same time, the iPhone 16 continued to perform well, contributing to Apple’s overall achievements. The synergy between these two product offerings, along with a shift in consumer patterns as numerous users aimed to upgrade post-COVID-19 pandemic, fostered a favorable climate for Apple.

#### Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

Despite Apple’s flourishing growth, the smartphone market is anticipated to encounter hurdles in the upcoming year due to an increase in memory costs, which could result in an overall market contraction. Nonetheless, both Apple and Samsung are strategically positioned to tackle these challenges. Samsung’s capability to manufacture its own memory components and Apple’s strong market influence to secure competitive pricing and supply ahead of time are considerable strengths.

To summarize, Apple’s targeted product launches and market expansion strategies have enabled it to regain its status at the leading edge of the smartphone sector, while Samsung remains a tough competitor. As the market progresses, both firms will need to adjust to shifting consumer preferences and economic realities to uphold their respective standings.

Apple is presently encountering considerable obstacles due to a set of 83 suggested security requirements from the Indian authorities. Among these suggestions is a contentious request for smartphone makers to grant access to their source code, particularly for iOS. This stipulation has generated apprehension regarding corporate confidentiality and security threats, as revealing source code could potentially uncover vulnerabilities to malicious entities.

As reported by Reuters, the Indian government defends this requirement by claiming it needs to examine the source code of smartphones to spot and address possible security weaknesses. This initiative has encountered resistance from major tech firms, including Apple, Samsung, Google, and Xiaomi, represented by the industry association MAIT. They contend that such disclosure is impractical due to the ramifications for corporate secrecy and adherence to international privacy regulations.

Aside from the source code stipulation, the Indian government has suggested additional measures, such as requiring manufacturers to notify the government prior to launching significant updates or security fixes. This could impede the prompt deployment of essential updates, ultimately endangering user security.

The scenario has been further complicated by conflicting messages from the Indian government. While certain government documents allegedly endorse the source code disclosure, the IT department has publicly denied that it is actively pursuing source code from smartphone manufacturers, without providing additional details.

Apple has a precedent of resisting similar requests from other governments, including an unwillingness to share source code with the Chinese government and to create backdoors for law enforcement agencies such as the FBI. Given this history, analysts believe that Apple is unlikely to acquiesce to the Indian government’s demands.

As the situation unfolds, the Indian government has signaled that it remains in the consultation stage with tech companies, allowing for possible adjustments to the proposed requirements. Nonetheless, the outcome remains unpredictable as both parties navigate the intricate intersection of security, privacy, and corporate interests.

# Future Enhancements for Apple Health App: A Thorough Summary

In the past year, Apple has taken a leading role in health technology conversations, with CEO Tim Cook asserting that one of the company’s most crucial contributions to society will be in the realm of health. As part of this vision, a set of updates to the Apple Health app is imminent, scheduled to launch with the upcoming iOS 26.4. This article will delve into the expected features and improvements that aim to enhance user experience and health management.

## Streamlined App Layout

As reported by Macworld, the Health app is set to receive a major redesign in iOS 26.4. This redesign intends to simplify the user interface, presenting a new organization for categories and easier metric recording. With the Health app becoming increasingly central to Apple’s mission, these adjustments are projected to make navigation and data entry more user-friendly. The beta version of iOS 26.4 is expected to be released shortly, with a complete launch anticipated in the spring.

## Nutrition Tracking Functionality

One of the most thrilling new features for the Health app is the implementation of a meal tracking function. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this functionality will enable users to record their food consumption, monitor calorie intake, and assist with weight management. While the existing Health app allows users to enter data for specific nutrients, this new emphasis on holistic food tracking positions Apple to rival established platforms like MyFitnessPal and weight-loss applications such as Noom. Development of this feature is said to be advancing swiftly.

## Health+ Video Service

Alongside food tracking, Apple intends to introduce a fresh video service similar to Apple Fitness+. This service, provisionally named Health+, will offer users educational videos from health specialists, including physicians, dietitians, and mental health practitioners. These videos will act as resources for users to gain insights into health topics and receive advice based on their health data. For example, if the Health app identifies a troubling trend in a user’s information, it might suggest a video providing recommendations on how to tackle the concern.

## AI Health Advisor

Apple is also working on an AI health advisor that will scrutinize user data from the Health app and deliver tailored health recommendations. This capability aims to provide nutritional guidance and could potentially leverage the iPhone’s rear camera to offer real-time feedback on exercise performance, assisting users in refining their workout techniques. This integration could enhance the overall fitness journey and may link with other Apple services, such as Apple Fitness+.

## Summary

The forthcoming adjustments to the Apple Health app in iOS 26.4 signify a major transformation that could change how users engage with their health data. With a revamped interface, meal tracking features, educational health videos, and an AI health advisor, Apple is set to make a notable impact in the health technology sector. Although these features might face delays, the current trajectory indicates a bright future for the Health app. Users are invited to share their opinions on these updates and how they foresee employing the new capabilities.

### Jeff: Leader of Video Content Production at 9to5Mac

Jeff has made a name for himself as a key player in the sphere of technology content creation, acting as the leader of video content production for 9to5Mac. Since he joined the team in 2016, he has been instrumental in transforming how technology is delivered to audiences, emphasizing clarity and ease of understanding.

#### Background and Contributions

With a diverse background that includes many content formats, Jeff has created an impressive collection of videos, walkthroughs, how-tos, written guides, and reviews. His talent for breaking down complex technological ideas into easily digestible material has struck a chord with viewers, establishing him as a reliable source for both tech enthusiasts and beginners.

#### Impact on Viewership

Jeff’s videos have amassed hundreds of millions of views, showcasing his effectiveness in attracting a wide audience keen to discover the latest innovations in technology. His method prioritizes clear explanations, ensuring that even the most complex subjects are understandable to everyone. This dedication to clarity has not only improved viewer comprehension but has also played a significant role in the overall expansion of 9to5Mac’s online influence.

#### Engaging with the Audience

To stay updated on Jeff’s newest content, viewers are invited to subscribe to the 9to5Mac YouTube channel. Here, they can access a plethora of resources aimed at helping them navigate the constantly changing tech environment. From product evaluations to useful tutorials, Jeff’s efforts continue to equip viewers with the insights they need to make informed choices in their tech-related pursuits.

#### Conclusion

Jeff’s commitment to delivering top-notch, educational video content has positioned him as an invaluable asset to 9to5Mac. His skill in effective communication and audience engagement has not only elevated the platform’s standing but has also nurtured a community of tech-savvy individuals eager to learn and expand their knowledge. As technology progresses, Jeff remains at the leading edge, prepared to assist viewers in navigating the intricacies of the digital landscape.

### Discovering the Fresh Screenshot Features in iOS 26

It’s been six months since the introduction of iOS 26 in beta, offering users the chance to delve into its comprehensive redesign and new capabilities. Among the numerous enhancements, one key upgrade is the revamp of the screenshot functionality, now featuring three groundbreaking elements powered by Apple Intelligence: generating calendar events from screenshots, conducting image searches for web information, and the option to inquire about screenshots via ChatGPT.

#### Visual Intelligence for Calendar Events

A highlight of iOS 26 is the capability to generate calendar events straight from a screenshot. This feature has shown to be especially advantageous for users who might not frequently engage with their calendars. For many, including those who lean towards using to-do applications or depend on recollection, this functionality streamlines the event scheduling process.

The integration of this capability is flawless. Users can capture a screenshot of anything—whether it’s an Instagram story, an email, or a webpage—and with a simple tap on the “add to calendar” button that appears at the bottom, they can effortlessly extract relevant information to set up a calendar event. This has proven particularly handy during hectic times, like events such as CES, where juggling numerous appointments can become daunting.

The efficiency of this feature is remarkable; it consistently retrieves relevant details from screenshots, enabling users to swiftly and accurately incorporate events into their calendars. This convenience promotes more regular use of calendar tools, reshaping how individuals organize their schedules.

In conclusion, the screenshot upgrades in iOS 26, especially the function to create calendar events, mark a substantial leap forward in user experience. This feature not only simplifies scheduling but also motivates users to fully utilize their calendar applications, making it a significant enhancement to the iOS environment.

# iPhone 17e: Anticipations Regarding Apple’s Upcoming Affordable Model

Last year, Apple unveiled the iPhone 16e, a fresh entry-level addition to its iPhone series. Now, merely a year later, speculation is rife about its successor, the iPhone 17e. Here’s an in-depth look at what we might expect from this much-anticipated device.

## A19 Chip

One of the most notable enhancements expected in the iPhone 17e is the integration of the A19 chip. This new chipset is predicted to utilize the third-generation 3nm process, known as N3P, and is forecasted to provide a CPU performance boost of around 5-10% over the A18 chip available in the iPhone 16e. This advancement will likely lead to improved efficiency and speed for daily tasks and applications.

## Sleeker Bezels

Sources indicate that the iPhone 17e will sport sleeker bezels compared to its predecessor while preserving the same 6.1-inch display size. However, it is crucial to emphasize that this model is not expected to feature new display technologies like ProMotion or always-on capabilities, which are designated for higher-tier models. The design alteration will align the iPhone 17e more closely with the entire iPhone 17 series, known for its ultra-slim bezels.

## Dynamic Island

Another thrilling speculation is that the iPhone 17e may incorporate the Dynamic Island feature, which was initially launched with the iPhone 14 Pro. The current iPhone 16e continues to utilize the older notch design. If the iPhone 17e indeed includes Dynamic Island, it will signify the conclusion of the notch in Apple’s iPhone series, offering a more contemporary and cohesive user experience.

## Center Stage

The iPhone 17 series is rumored to feature a new selfie camera with Center Stage functionality. This 18MP square sensor can adapt to either a portrait or landscape rectangle, enabling users to capture selfies in both orientations without having to rotate the device. Furthermore, the camera is engineered to track faces and automatically modify the frame when a second individual enters the scene. This functionality is expected to be a substantial enhancement for the iPhone 17e, improving the quality of selfies and video calls.

## MagSafe Compatibility

The iPhone 17e is also speculated to support MagSafe, a feature currently missing in the iPhone 16e, which only supports standard Qi wireless charging at a maximum of 7.5W. With MagSafe, the iPhone 17e could facilitate faster wireless charging at 15W and compatibility with a variety of accessories such as stands, wallets, and battery packs. This addition would considerably elevate the device’s functionality and convenience for users.

## Pricing and Launch Date

The iPhone 17e is anticipated to debut as early as February, mirroring the release timeline of the iPhone 16e last year, although a spring launch is also feasible. The price is expected to remain around the $599 range, positioning it as an appealing option for budget-conscious buyers. There is speculation that the iPhone 17e might also begin with 256GB of storage, a feature previously exclusive to the Pro Max model, which would further bolster its value proposition.

## Conclusion

The iPhone 17e is poised to be a compelling enhancement over its predecessor, with substantial upgrades in processing power, design, camera features, and accessory compatibility. As Apple continues to innovate within its product offerings, the iPhone 17e could provide an excellent balance of features and affordability. Whether it will be worth the expenditure compared to last year’s model remains to be determined, but the initial signs are encouraging.

**Groundbreaking Gadgets Revealed at CES 2026**

Every January, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is hosted in Las Vegas, presenting the newest advancements in technology. Although Apple does not take part in this exhibition, it presents a vital opportunity to discover products that enhance Apple’s ecosystem. This article showcases some of the remarkable products featured at CES 2026 that aim to improve user experience.

### Clicks Power Keyboard

Among the most anticipated products before CES was the Clicks Power Keyboard. This cutting-edge Bluetooth keyboard incorporates MagSafe compatibility and comes with a built-in battery bank for charging your iPhone. In contrast to the earlier Clicks phone case, which was restricted to certain phone models, the Power Keyboard is crafted for compatibility with various iPhone and Android devices, enabling Qi2/MagSafe charging.

The keyboard provides improved functionality via Bluetooth connectivity, making it a valuable accessory for devices like the Apple Vision Pro. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable typing experience, especially with smaller iPhone models. The Clicks Power Keyboard is available for pre-order at $79.99, with shipping anticipated in the spring.

### Keychron Q Ultra Keyboards

Keychron, famous for its mechanical keyboards designed for Mac users, launched the Q Ultra series at CES. These keyboards feature an exceptional 8K polling rate in wireless mode and offer up to 660 hours of battery life. The new Silk POM switches improve the typing experience, while the aluminum casing adds sturdiness. The Q Ultra lineup consists of three configurations: Q1 Ultra (75%), Q3 Ultra (TKL), and Q6 Ultra (100%), starting at $229.

### HyperDrive Next

HyperDrive Next is an advanced solution for connecting high-performance NVMe SSDs. It supports Thunderbolt 4 and USB4, providing transfer speeds of up to 64Gbps for large files. This modular enclosure works with various M.2 modules, including AI accelerators and network cards, making it a fantastic option for users in search of speedy storage solutions. The HyperDrive Next retails for $199.99 and is available for purchase now.

### New Anker Nano 45W

Anker launched a new 45W charging brick equipped with a smart display at CES 2026. This charger enables users to track the connected device, charging speed, and even manually modify the charge speed. The prongs can rotate 180 degrees for convenient wall socket access. Offered in four colors (with the orange variant debuting later), the charger is priced at $39.99, currently featuring a $10 pre-order discount.

### Belkin Custom Screen Protectors

Belkin introduced a distinctive range of customizable screen protectors in partnership with ScreenSkinz. These protectors let users engrave artwork that remains visible only when the screen is off. This innovative aspect merges personalization with practicality, though the product is not available for purchase yet. Customization options will be available on Belkin’s website in the forthcoming weeks.

### Conclusion

The innovations revealed at CES 2026 emphasize a rising trend of enhancing user experience through thoughtful design and functionality. While the event showcased a broad range of products, the emphasis on accessories that complement existing technology, especially for Apple users, was invigorating. As these products launch, additional hands-on impressions and reviews will offer deeper insights into their performance and ease of use.

In addition to these accessories, Nvidia’s introduction of a self-driving software stack at CES signifies an exciting advancement in autonomous vehicle technology, indicating increased competition in the sector.

Stay tuned for more updates and detailed reviews as these products become available.

### Indie App Spotlight: Zephy – An Exceptional Plane Tracking Application

Welcome to the Indie App Spotlight, a weekly segment by 9to5Mac showcasing the newest and most creative applications from the indie development scene. This week, we highlight an intriguing app called **Zephy**, crafted for aviation lovers and the inquisitive.

#### What is Zephy?

Zephy is an interactive plane tracking application that leverages your iPhone’s gyroscope to deliver real-time data about aircraft soaring above. Whether you’re a devoted aviation follower or simply someone who enjoys observing planes, this app provides a distinctive and engaging way to navigate the skies.

#### Top Features

Zephy differentiates itself from conventional flight radar apps by presenting a simplified, compass-like radar interface. Here are some of its standout features:

– **Real-Time Tracking**: The app showcases planes within a customizable radius, enabling users to see aircraft flying within a predetermined distance. By default, it displays planes within 20 kilometers, but users can modify this range to suit their liking.

– **In-Depth Information**: Tapping on a specific plane icon reveals detailed information, such as altitude, speed, tail number, destination, and model of the aircraft. Users can also see an example image of the particular aircraft model.

– **Adjustable Field of View**: Users can alter the field of view to either broaden or narrow, enriching the tracking experience according to individual preferences.

#### Download the App

Zephy can be downloaded for free from the App Store for iPhone users with iOS 13 or newer. The app is free of ads, with no in-app purchases or subscriptions required, making it an inviting choice for anyone interested in aviation.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, Zephy is a charming app that blends a user-friendly design with valuable functionality for aircraft tracking. While it may not be indispensable for everyone, it undeniably infuses a playful aspect into sky observation, catering to the curiosity of those who frequently look up.

For additional information and to download the app, visit the [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/zephy/id6749452267).

In just a few brief months, we should be optimistic about getting our initial glimpse of a completely revamped AI-enhanced Siri. After introducing it over a year and a half ago, Apple’s concept for a fresh Siri has encountered numerous engineering obstacles – yet it has not yet reached users’ devices. However, that is expected to change soon.

### Upcoming Siri Enhancements

At WWDC 2024, Apple presented three significant enhancements for Siri with Apple Intelligence:

– **Personal Context**: When conversing with Siri, it will understand the context of the information on your device, so you won’t need to know exactly where to locate something.
– **On-Screen Awareness**: Siri will be able to view your screen while you make a request, allowing you to provide less detail.
– **Executing Tasks in Apps**: Instead of having to launch an app for every trivial action, you’ll be able to instruct Siri to perform tasks for you.

Initially, these new Siri enhancements were expected to launch with iOS 18.4. However, Apple encountered technical challenges with the Siri engineering framework and decided to postpone it while they rebuilt Siri from scratch on a new LLM-based platform.

Currently, Apple is contemplating utilizing Google Gemini to support these features, rather than relying on on-device models. If they proceed with Gemini, it will use Private Cloud Compute, ensuring that Google still does not receive data from these queries.

Macworld’s Filipe Esposito recently indicated that the new Siri functionalities are expected to be released alongside iOS 26.4, according to revealed Apple code.

### AI Search Engine

In addition to the previously announced Siri features, Apple is developing a new capability: its own generative AI search engine. This initiative was first mentioned in August. According to a recent update from Mark Gurman, it could launch as early as March, coinciding with the release of iOS 26.4:

> Apple has seized this chance to revamp the assistant to introduce a new search product — internally referred to as World Knowledge Answers, or WKA — in order to compete with services like Perplexity and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This feature is also slated for March as part of the enhanced Siri, and it may ultimately be integrated into the Safari browser and Spotlight search tool as well.

### Release Date

Although we cannot say for certain when iOS 26.4 will be released, if past patterns are any indication, it will likely arrive in March or April. This also suggests that we may see the first beta launch as early as next month. We could potentially catch our first glimpse of the all-new Siri in less than 6 weeks.

Roborock is introducing a time-limited sale on its newest F25 series floor cleaners, featuring considerable price cuts on both the flagship F25 Ultra and the more budget-friendly F25 GT. This offer is valid from January 10 to January 23, making Roborock’s state-of-the-art wet and dry cleaning technology more accessible to a larger audience.

The F25 Ultra is priced at $499.99, reflecting a $300 reduction from its standard price of $799.99. The F25 GT is offered at $189.99, reduced from $299, and this promotion lasts until January 18.

### Roborock F25 Ultra: The Pinnacle of Floor Cleaning

The F25 Ultra stands as Roborock’s premier floor cleaner, engineered to handle various cleaning tasks with efficiency. It utilizes VaporFlow and WaveFlow technology for steam and hot water cleaning, effectively addressing tough stains while facilitating simultaneous wet and dry cleaning.

Key specifications include:
– Suction power reaching up to 22,000 Pa
– Downward pressure of 33 newtons
– 33 cm cleaning width
– Edge-to-edge coverage complemented by blue light illumination to reveal fine dust

Maintenance is made easier with the JawScrapers anti-tangle roller, which reduces hair tangles and streaking. The F25 Ultra also provides self-cleaning features using high-temperature steam and hot water, with the ability to self-dry in just 5 minutes.

Smart functionalities improve the user experience, including automatic dirt detection, an automatic detergent dispenser, app control, voice notifications, and an enhanced LED display that features a progress bar. Its design encourages effortless maneuvering, equipped with automated wheels and a 180-degree lay-flat capability for cleaning beneath low furniture.

### Roborock F25 GT: Essential Features at a Budget-Friendly Rate

The F25 GT presents a budget-friendly choice, emphasizing essential cleaning performance. It offers suction power of up to 20,000 Pa and downward pressure of 20 newtons, making it adept at handling everyday messes.

Like the Ultra, the F25 GT includes:
– 180-degree lay-flat cleaning
– Edge-to-edge cleaning efficiency
– A tangle-free roller for simpler upkeep

It allows for hot water self-cleaning at 90°C, with a drying duration of around 30 minutes. However, it does not include some of the advanced features such as dirt detection, app control, and an automatic detergent dispenser.

The F25 GT provides two cleaning modes (Eco and Sponge), with a maximum runtime of 35 minutes in Eco mode, making it a sensible selection for those wanting efficient cleaning without the extra features of the Ultra.

### Selecting the Appropriate F25 Model

A comparison of the specifications underscores the distinctions between the F25 Ultra and F25 GT:

| Category | F25 Ultra | F25 GT |
|————————–|————————-|————————-|
| Suction Power | 22,000 Pa | 20,000 Pa |
| Downward Pressure | 33 N | 20 N |
| Steam Self-Cleaning | Yes | No |
| Hot Water Self-Cleaning | 95°C | 90°C |
| Self-Drying Temperature | 95°C | 90°C |
| Drying Time | 5-15 min | 30 min |
| Dirt Detection | Yes | No |
| App Control | Yes | No |
| Cleaning Modes | Steam, hot water, auto, sponge | Eco, sponge |

### Time-Limited Exclusive Offer

The F25 Ultra is perfect for those seeking the ultimate cleaning experience, priced at $499.99 until January 23. The F25 GT appeals to customers looking for robust cleaning efficacy at a lower price point, available for $189.99 until January 18.

This promotion presents a fantastic opportunity to enhance your floor cleaning technology according to your budget and cleaning requirements.