Search results for: “Messages”

  • visionOS 26 and iOS 26: New features for Gaming, Messages, and CarPlay

    visionOS 26 and iOS 26: New features for Gaming, Messages, and CarPlay

    With iOS and visionOS 26, Apple’s operating systems will support gaming controllers by PlayStation, Xbox, and special spatial controllers. People can have more fun during gaming with Apple’s Vision Pro, since they can use their favorite controllers.

    Also, Messages and CarPlay are getting major improvements in this update to iOS 26. New tools in Messages will make chatting easier and closer connections possible. CarPlay is also receiving some updates, however, the exact changes have not been revealed completely. These upgrades will let you use your iPhone in the car and for messaging more comfortably.

    Both operating systems indicate that Apple wants its products to play well with widely used devices. Because PlayStation and Xbox controllers work with visionOS 26, gamers can use whichever controller feels best to them. iOS 26 updates to Messages and CarPlay give people even more daily benefits from their iPhones.

    The software updates from Apple bring all these changes, and users can expect them soon. The goal is to keep improving the devices and apps so that people who like games, chat, or driving benefit. They are created to help users have a more solid and continuous connection throughout all Apple’s products.

  • Apple updates Safari for smoother web alerts, fixes Messages bug, and offers new Nike deal for Card users

    Apple updates Safari for smoother web alerts, fixes Messages bug, and offers new Nike deal for Card users

    Apple has rolled out a few useful updates recently. First, macOS 15.5 is bringing better web push notifications to Safari. Now, websites can send you alerts even if Safari is closed. This works for apps added to the dock as well. It’s especially helpful for developers building websites that act like apps, letting users stay updated in real time. This update makes Safari work more like browsers on Windows and Android, where push notifications have already been common.

    In another fix, Apple has addressed a strange bug in the Messages app. Some users had trouble sending messages that included an ampersand (&) in the contact name. Messages would fail and never reach the other person. This problem started with iOS 17.4, but the issue is now being resolved in iOS 17.5. If you’ve been dealing with this, updating your device should fix it.

    Lastly, Apple Card users can now get a special offer. If you spend $50 or more at Nike using Apple Card through Apple Pay, you’ll receive $10 back in Daily Cash. This offer is available until May 22 and can be used in Nike stores, on Nike.com, or through the Nike app. It’s a good time for Apple Card users to take advantage of this limited-time reward.

    These updates show Apple’s push to fix annoying bugs, improve Safari, and reward users with simple perks.

  • New look for Messages app in iOS 19

    New look for Messages app in iOS 19

    Apple is working on a fresh update for its Messages app with iOS 19, and a sneak peek has already popped up online. The early design, shared by a tech enthusiast on X, shows some cool changes that could make texting more fun and personal.

    The biggest tweak is a new way to customize chat bubbles. Users might get to pick colors or styles for their messages, making every conversation look unique. There’s also talk of better tools for organizing chats, like pinning important chats or grouping them more smartly. This could help keep things tidy, especially for people who text a lot.

    Another exciting hint is about improved effects. The mockup suggests Apple might add more lively animations or reactions to spice up replies. Think of it like sending a mini celebration with every “LOL” or “Wow!” Plus, the design looks cleaner, with a simpler layout that’s easy on the eyes.

    This isn’t the final version—Apple could still tweak things before iOS 19 lands, likely in late 2025. The company hasn’t said anything official yet, but fans are already buzzing about these ideas. If the update rolls out like this, it could make texting feel fresh and exciting again. For now, it’s just a teaser, but it’s got people curious about what’s next for iPhone messaging!

  • Apple Watch requirements for AI features in watchOS 26

    Apple Watch requirements for AI features in watchOS 26

    The new watchOS 26 update brings exciting AI-powered features to the Apple Watch, but not all devices can use them. These features, called Apple Intelligence, have specific hardware needs. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to use them.

    Live Translation: This feature lets your Apple Watch translate conversations in real time. It requires a newer model like the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2. You also need an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 model. Both devices must run watchOS 26 and iOS 26.

    Smart Replies: This helps you respond to messages quickly with suggested replies. It works on any Apple Watch that supports watchOS 26, like Series 6 or later, as long as it has the on-device language model. Your iPhone doesn’t need to be AI-compatible for this.

    Workout Buddy: This feature gives you personalized pep talks during workouts. It works on any Apple Watch running watchOS 26, but your paired iPhone must support Apple Intelligence. It uses workout data to motivate you, like tracking your heart rate or distance.

    Each feature has different needs because some run on the Watch itself, while others rely on the iPhone’s power. If you’re excited about these AI tools, check if your devices meet the requirements. Which watchOS 26 feature do you like most? Share your thoughts

  • Apple releases second test version of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26

    Apple releases second test version of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26

    Apple has rolled out the second developer beta for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, two weeks after the first test version debuted at WWDC 2025. This update focuses on refining the new Liquid Glass design, a sleek, translucent look that transforms the iPhone and iPad interface with shimmering icons and dynamic visuals. It also boosts Apple Intelligence, enhancing apps like Messages, Phone, and Safari with smarter features.

    The second beta fixes a key issue with the Control Center, addressing user complaints about its design. Other tweaks include better battery management through Adaptive Power Mode, which slightly dims the screen or slows tasks to save power. New Wi-Fi tools, like Captive Assist, are in the works but not yet active. Developers can grab the update via the Settings app on supported devices, like the iPhone 15 and 16.

    iOS 26 brings fresh touches, such as a hidden ringtone variation of Reflection and new call features like Hold Assist. iPadOS 26 adds a Phone app, improved multitasking, and a Games app. These betas are for developers now, but a public beta will launch in July, with the full release set for September alongside new iPhones. Apple is streamlining its software numbering, so “26” marks the 2025-2026 season, matching macOS 26, watchOS 26, and more. Stay tuned for hands-on reviews as testing continues.

  • What’s new for CarPlay in iOS 26

    What’s new for CarPlay in iOS 26

    Apple’s iOS 26 brings a fresh and exciting update to CarPlay, making it the biggest change in years. Here’s what you can look forward to this fall when you update your iPhone.
    CarPlay gets a sleek new design called “Liquid Glass” look. This gives app icons and menus a modern, smooth appearance.

    You can pick from Light, Dark, or Clear styles to match your vibe, with the Clear option offering a few extra tweaks. Want to see the designs? Check out the gallery on Apple’s website. Widgets are finally coming to standard CarPlay, not just the premium CarPlay Ultra.

    These handy tools let you see quick info at a glance. Plus, you can now use Live Activities to track updates like food deliveries without leaving your map. Your favorite apps are getting car-friendly improvements. In Messages, you can use Tapbacks to reply with a quick emoji and pin important chats.

    The Phone app now shows calls in a small pop-up, so your navigation stays clear. If your car has a touchscreen, Apple Maps lets you zoom and move around with pinch gestures for the first time. A cool feature called “Smart Display Zoom” adjusts your screen’s use of pace, fitting more on the display or keeping things big and easy to tap.

    You can also make the text size larger for better readability. This iOS 26 makes CarPlay more stylish, safer, and easier to use. Which feature are you most excited about? Let us know your thoughts!

  • Safari and CarPlay updates make iPhone easier to use

    Safari and CarPlay updates make iPhone easier to use

    Apple is making some helpful changes to Safari and CarPlay with the new iOS 26 update. These updates are designed to make browsing and messaging smoother for iPhone users.

    Safari gets a new look and better features

    Safari on iOS 26 will have a cleaner design. The address bar is now at the bottom of the screen, making it easier to reach with your thumb. Tabs are easier to organize, and you can group them to keep things tidy. There’s also a new way to search, with smarter suggestions that help you find what you need faster. Safari will also block more trackers, so your browsing stays private.

    CarPlay fixes a big messaging problem

    If you use CarPlay in your car, you’ll notice a big improvement with messages. Before, CarPlay would only show the most recent message in a conversation, which made it hard to keep up if you missed something. With iOS 26, CarPlay will now show the whole conversation, so you can easily read all your messages while driving. This makes it much simpler to stay connected and not miss important information.

    What does this mean for you

    These updates aim to make your iPhone experience better, whether you’re browsing the web or driving. Safari is now easier to use and more private, while CarPlay helps you keep up with messages safely on the road. Both changes show that Apple is listening to what users want and working to make their devices more helpful and user-friendly.

  • Google says iOS 26 borrows key Android features

    Google says iOS 26 borrows key Android features

    Apple recently announced iOS 26, and Google has pointed out that some of its new features are very similar to ones Android has had for a while. Here are the three main features that Google says Apple has borrowed:

    1. Improved Call Recording

    Apple is adding call recording to iPhones with iOS 26. This feature lets users record phone calls and even get a summary of the conversation. Google notes that Android phones have offered call recording for years, and some models even provide automatic summaries.

    2. Smarter Messaging with RCS

    iOS 26 will support RCS (Rich Communication Services) in the Messages app. This means iPhone users can now send high-quality photos and videos, see typing indicators, and enjoy better group chats with Android users. Google has supported RCS on Android for a long time, making texting between different phones easier and more modern.

    3. Customizable Home Screen

    Apple is allowing users to place app icons and widgets anywhere on the home screen, not just in a fixed grid. Android users have enjoyed this flexibility for many years, letting them organize their home screens however they like.

    Google commented on social media, welcoming Apple to these features and playfully reminding everyone that Android has had them first. While Apple fans are excited about these changes, it’s clear that iOS 26 is catching up to some things Android users already know and love.

  • Apple Music gets a fresh lock screen look in iOS 26

    Apple Music gets a fresh lock screen look in iOS 26

    Apple Music is getting a big update with iOS 26, making your iPhone’s lock screen more lively and fun when you play music. Now, when you listen to a song, the lock screen will show a colorful, moving background that matches the album art. This new look makes listening to music feel more exciting and personal.

    The update brings smooth animations and bright colors that change depending on what you’re listening to. If you pause the music, the animation stops, and when you play it again, the motion returns. You can also swipe up to see more controls, like shuffle, repeat, and lyrics, without unlocking your phone.

    Apple is making sure this new design works well with other lock screen features, like notifications and widgets. The music player stays easy to use, and you can still check your messages or see the time while enjoying the new visuals.

    This update is part of Apple’s plan to make the iPhone experience more enjoyable and modern. The new Apple Music lock screen will be available to everyone when iOS 26 comes out later this year. If you love music, this change will make your daily listening even better.

  • Apple’s new software updates: iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and more

    Apple’s new software updates: iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and more

    Apple just kicked off WWDC 2025 with exciting news about its latest software updates: iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. These updates bring a fresh look and cool new features to Apple devices, and developers can try the first beta versions now.

    The updates introduce a sleek “Liquid Glass” design, with see-through menus and glossy buttons, inspired by visionOS. This makes navigating your iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, or Vision Pro feel smoother and more connected across devices. Apple also changed its naming system, using “26” to mark the 2025-2026 release season, like how car models are named.

    For iPadOS 26, multitasking gets a big upgrade, acting more like a Mac with better window controls. iOS 26 adds fun tweaks to the Messages app, like polls and custom backgrounds. macOS Tahoe 26 offers a new Phone app and smarter search tools. watchOS 26 brings the Notes app to your wrist, while tvOS 26 improves Apple Music Sing. visionOS 26 enhances the Vision Pro experience with sharper visuals.

    These beta versions are for developers to test, but public betas will arrive in July, with the full release in September. Be cautious with betas, as they may have bugs. Stay tuned for more details as Apple refines these updates!