Apple Reveals Exit of Veteran COO Jeff Williams
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Read MoreUp to three out of every 1,000 newborns is born experiencing hearing loss in one or both ears. Although cochlear implants have been a transformative option for a long time, they require surgery and cannot completely mimic the nuances of natural hearing. However, researchers may have finally discovered an alternative approach.
Recent studies indicate that scientists have effectively utilized gene therapy to revive hearing in adults with congenital deafness, representing a significant milestone in the effort to restore hearing across various age groups.
A genuine champion in hearing recovery
It is well acknowledged that gene therapy can be remarkably potent. Not only has gene editing opened avenues for numerous potential therapies, but it has also set the stage for revolutionary research, such as hypoallergenic cats, among others.
This innovative treatment can restore hearing in adults by addressing a rare type of genetic hearing loss termed OTOF-related deafness. This condition arises from mutations in the OTOF gene, which is responsible for producing a protein called otoferlin. Otoferlin is essential for transmitting sound signals from the inner ear to the brain.
In patients with this mutation, that signal chain is disrupted. This results in hearing impairment from birth onwards. However, since the inner ear structures remain intact, the condition is particularly amenable to gene therapy interventions. To insert a functional copy of the OTOF gene, researchers employed a safe, modified virus that was introduced directly into the sensory cells of the inner ear. This virus served as a messenger, delivering the corrected gene into the cells, enabling them to start producing otoferlin and potentially restore sound signaling.
Swift advancements
Preliminary tests in children indicated encouraging outcomes, yet a larger question persisted: Could gene therapy be effective in older patients? To investigate, the team initiated a clinical trial with 10 participants aged between 1 and 24, all diagnosed with OTOF-related deafness. The outcomes were positive across the board—and particularly remarkable in older participants.
The enhancements in hearing were both quick and substantial. On average, participants exhibited a 62% improvement in brainstem response evaluations and a 78% increase in behavioral hearing assessments. Some individuals were able to perceive speech sounds within just a few weeks. This research signifies the first instance in which gene therapy has been demonstrated to restore hearing in both adolescents and adults.
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Read MoreMore than a month following the record-setting debut of the Nintendo Switch 2, the gaming system is now available for purchase on Amazon in the US. However, there’s still an additional step you’ll need to take if you wish to buy one from Amazon.
As highlighted by Wario64 on X, listings for the Nintendo Switch 2 and the Switch 2 bundle including Mario Kart World showed up on Amazon.com this week. Unfortunately, you can’t just add one to your cart, as Amazon is providing Switch 2 consoles by invitation only. If you desire one, you’ll need to hit the “Request invite” button and keep your fingers crossed.
“To ensure that as many legitimate customers as possible can buy this in-demand item, we sell it by invitation,” Amazon elaborates on its website. “If you’re invited to purchase, you’ll receive an email when the item is available. Not all requests will be approved.”
Upon clicking the button, you should see a confirmation indicating that you will receive an email with a link that’s valid for 22 hours if you are chosen.
Amazon and Nintendo mend fences
You may remember that before the release of the Switch 2 last month, we pointed out that there were no indications that Amazon intended to sell Nintendo’s console in the US. There was also no clear reason provided for this situation, but GameSpot had reported that the online giant and Nintendo had experienced a disagreement at some point that resulted in a divide.
Weeks later, Bloomberg released its own comprehensive report, asserting that Nintendo had “stopped selling on Amazon after realizing that third-party sellers were offering games for sale in the US at prices that significantly undercut Nintendo’s listed rates.”
Nintendo and Amazon quickly rejected the report’s assertions, according to Tom’s Hardware. Nintendo stated that there was “no such fact,” while Amazon described it as “inaccurate.”
Read MoreFollowing the introduction of the iPhone 16e, experts projected that Apple would maintain an annual release of an “e” model. Despite some speculation casting doubt on these forecasts, it appears that Apple is indeed gearing up to unveil an iPhone 17e early next year.
Nevertheless, if you are holding out for a fresh version before making a change, we have unfortunate news. As reported by the Korean news source The Elec, Apple is set to use the identical panel found in the iPhone 16e for the upcoming iPhone 17e. This means that Apple will stick with the iPhone 14 display, first introduced in 2022, in an attempt to utilize more economical components.
Consequently, the notch will persist for at least another year. Given that there are rumors suggesting Apple might reduce the size of the Dynamic Island within a year or two, it’s intriguing that the company doesn’t seem more determined to eliminate the notch anytime soon if it compromises low-cost components for the budget-friendly iPhone.
That being said, the iPhone 17e will not lack enhancements. For example, it is anticipated to include an upgraded camera, as Apple plans to enhance the lenses for the iPhone 17 series, along with a newer A19 chip (noting fewer GPU cores for the iPhone 17e, of course).
Speculations suggest that Apple will launch a new C2 modem next year, which would bring enhanced 5G capabilities, including mmWave technology. However, it remains uncertain whether the C2 will debut with the iPhone 17e or if Apple intends to introduce the chip alongside the iPhone 18 in late 2026.
Even more intriguing about the timing of the iPhone 17e is that in the coming years, Apple is reportedly planning to adjust its iPhone release schedule. In late 2026, the company is expected to debut the iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, and the inaugural iPhone Fold. The iPhone 18 and the iPhone 18e would then be released in early 2027.
Moving forward, the company will concentrate on launching higher-end models towards the end of the year while introducing more budget-friendly options at the start of the subsequent year.
Read MoreThere’s an abundance of new television to stream this month — however, if you prefer to bypass the speculation and dive directly into the best selections, three remarkable shows are premiering new seasons this month, all boasting an exceptional distinction: a flawless 100% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes.
From Hulu, Apple TV+, and Prime Video, these series arguably showcase some of the finest writing and most captivating storytelling available on television today. Each one presents something entirely unique, ranging from sharp British humor to an epic space saga, as well as a spinoff from a well-known crime drama. Below, we provide the details on all three television series.
Such Brave Girls: Season 2 (Hulu, now streaming)
This quirky, emotionally charged comedy from the UK centers around Josie, her sister Billie, and their mother Deb as they navigate existence within a tumultuous household — essentially, their lives are in disarray, they’re financially struggling, and they’re perpetually seeking love.
The show embraces its unfiltered humor, delivering sharp insights into family dysfunction, mental health, and contemporary womanhood. With exceptional performances from Kat Sadler (also the creator), Lizzie Davidson, and Louise Brealey, the new season is already receiving widespread praise. If you enjoy series like Fleabag, this is one you shouldn’t miss.
Foundation: Season 3 (Apple TV+, July 11)
Apple’s expansive sci-fi series Foundation makes its return for a third season, taking place over a century after the conclusion of Season 2.
Inspired by Isaac Asimov’s renowned novels, the show is grand in every respect — with vast timelines, galaxy-scale stakes, and a cast led by Jared Harris, Lee Pace, and Lou Llobell. This season, a new antagonist known as The Mule is poised to create chaos, as the show’s various factions deal with issues from politics to mind control. Anticipate stunning visuals, profound drama, and a narrative that aims high with each episode. There’s a reason this is one of the most significant series on Apple TV+.
Ballard: Season 1 (Prime Video, July 9)
A spinoff from Prime Video’s long-established Bosch franchise, Ballard introduces Maggie Q as Detective Renée Ballard, head of the LAPD’s cold case division. She’s a resilient, compassionate lead investigating the city’s overlooked murders — but when she uncovers a potential conspiracy within the department, things spiral downward quickly.
Titus Welliver returns to his role as Harry Bosch, assisting Ballard in confronting systemic decay while solving cases that others abandoned long ago. This series is essential viewing for enthusiasts of noir and character-driven crime dramas.
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Read MoreFollowing the launch of iOS 26 beta 3 this Monday, Apple is still making adjustments to its forthcoming significant software update in anticipation of its fall release. Notably, this beta marks the first experience for many iPhone users, as Apple typically provides the beta 3 build for its initial public testing phase. Consequently, the modifications in this new beta showcase the initial interaction many users will have with the new Liquid Glass UI and additional features.
In light of this, here are the key updates Apple implemented with iOS 26 beta 3.
**Liquid Glass doesn’t appear as liquid:** In response to feedback on social media following the first beta, Apple has refined the Liquid Glass UI to appear more understated in future betas. Within Control Center, Apple Music, App Store, and Apple Podcasts, the navigation bars are now less translucent. While Apple may still modify them in subsequent betas, it appears we are moving toward a Frosty Glass aesthetic rather than the original Liquid Glass concept.
**New Wallpapers:** With iOS 26 beta 3, Apple has updated the main wallpaper and now provides four distinct choices. These options are also more pronounced in Dark Mode.
**Commute Delays in Maps:** In beta 3, Apple introduces a new feature in Apple Maps that can notify you if you may face delays on your daily commute due to heavier traffic. The company has also implemented fog advisories, even when utilizing offline maps.
Beyond the aforementioned changes in iOS 26 beta 3, Apple has also enhanced several of its other operating systems:
– **Safari improves in macOS Tahoe:** Apple resolved the frustrating problem where unopened tabs were highlighted instead of the active one.
– **Liquid Glass extends to watchOS 26:** The passcode entry screen now features the same Liquid Glass buttons found in other UI sections.
– **iPadOS 26 adopts Mac-like cursor:** If you’re struggling to see the cursor on your iPad, simply shake it back and forth quickly to temporarily enlarge it.
## iOS 26 beta 3 code unveils additional features in development
With the introduction of iOS 26 beta 3, BGR reported on two potential new features headed to Apple Maps in the future.
– **Natural-language search for Apple Maps:** Apple is in the process of incorporating natural-language search functionality into Apple Maps. This capability is already available in the App Store and other applications, and now it’s set to be introduced in Maps. Rather than searching for “trattorias,” users will be able to inquire for something along the lines of “Best trattorias with good Wi-Fi.”
– **Apple Maps behavior modification:** With a forthcoming iOS 26 update, Apple Maps will eliminate the feature that keeps your screen on to allow your iPhone to cool down.
For more information on these features, click here. Below, you can find further details about iOS 26.
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Read MoreApple has just launched iOS 26 beta 3, the most recent version in its series of developer-exclusive betas, ahead of the expected public beta rollout. This release upholds Apple’s commitment to enhancing its operating system by adding new functionalities and resolving current issues. A primary emphasis of this update is the ongoing evolution of the Liquid Glass design, which has received more modifications since beta 2.
The Liquid Glass design, a striking new visual style introduced in iOS 26, has stirred debate among users. Initially lauded for its fresh take on transparency in several UI components, such as buttons and text, user feedback from the previous betas revealed that the extreme transparency rendered certain menus, including the Control Center and Notifications, hard to read, especially for those with visual challenges.
In light of this feedback, Apple implemented changes in beta 2 to enhance readability by improving contrast and lessening transparency. These modifications were mostly well-received as they enhanced the user-friendliness of Notifications and the Control Center.
With beta 3, Apple has persisted in refining the Liquid Glass design, choosing a more opaque look. This alteration has elicited mixed responses, with some users voicing disappointment, believing the design now resembles frosted glass instead of the originally envisioned transparency.
Regardless of these critiques, the beta testing phase is essential for Apple to collect user insights and implement required changes before the public launch. The company has included a “Reduce transparency” option in the Accessibility settings for users favoring less transparency.
As Apple approaches the public beta release, it will be intriguing to observe how the Liquid Glass design progresses and whether additional adjustments will be made to strike a balance between aesthetics and usability. The continuous input from beta testers will undoubtedly be pivotal in influencing the final iteration of iOS 26.
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