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  • 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’s Foldable iPhone camera details revealed

    Apple’s Foldable iPhone camera details revealed

    A new rumor about Apple’s upcoming Foldable iPhone, expected to launch next year, focuses on its camera setup. The device, designed to fold like a book, will likely feature two 48-megapixel rear cameras, similar to the iPhone 16 Pro’s main and ultra-wide lenses.

    This choice makes sense, as Apple aims to keep the foldable iPhone’s quality on par with its high-end models, especially with its rumored $2,000 price tag. While specific camera details are still unclear, the main camera might have a 24mm lens with a wide aperture and improved stabilization for sharper photos.

    The foldable iPhone is said to have a 7.6-inch inner display, slightly smaller than the previously reported 7.8 inches, but with the same resolution. However, changing the screen size at this stage seems unlikely, as the device is already in an advanced development phase with Foxconn.

    Production is expected to start between September and October this year, aiming for a release in late 2026. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman both predict a launch next year, though an exact date remains unconfirmed. This premium foldable iPhone promises cutting-edge features to justify its high cost.

  • Apple’s new C1 Modem: Where it’s headed next

    Apple’s new C1 Modem: Where it’s headed next

    Apple introduced its C1 modem with the iPhone 16e, bringing two big perks: better battery life and improved performance. This new tech is a step away from Qualcomm’s 5G modems, which Apple used before. The C1 saves power and works closely with iOS to make your phone feel faster by prioritizing important data.

    Apple made this modem to control more of its tech and cut costs, leading to a smoother experience for users. However, not all Apple devices are getting the C1 yet. Recent products like the M3 iPad Air, A16 iPad, and M4 MacBook Air don’t have it, sticking with Qualcomm’s modems.

    This fall, only one new device will feature the C1: the iPhone 17 Air. This super-thin iPhone, replacing the Plus model, will use the C1 to stay slim while keeping good battery life. Other models, like the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, will still use Qualcomm modems.

    Why is Apple rolling out the C1 slowly? It might be due to deals with Qualcomm, caution about possible connection issues, or just careful planning. For now, if you want the C1’s benefits, you’ll need an iPhone 16e or the upcoming iPhone 17 Air. Looking ahead, Apple’s full iPhone 18 lineup in 2026 is expected to use a new C2 modem.

  • New bill aims to limit Google and Apple’s App Store control

    New bill aims to limit Google and Apple’s App Store control

    A group of U.S. senators from both parties has brought back a bill to reduce the control Apple and Google have over mobile app stores. The Open App Markets Act, first introduced in 2021, wants to make the app market fairer for developers and users.

    The bill is led by Senators Marsha Blackburn, Richard Blumenthal, Mike Lee, Amy Klobuchar, and Dick Durbin. The proposed law would force Apple and Google to allow apps to be installed from other sources, not just their stores.

    It would also let developers use different payment systems and stop companies from punishing developers who offer better prices elsewhere. Senator Blumenthal said, “Apple and Google have built walls to block competition and raise prices for users.” The goal is to encourage more choices and lower costs.

    The bill has support from companies like Spotify and Epic Games, who say it will help small businesses and spark new ideas. However, Apple and Google argue that their rules protect user safety. The bill still needs to pass Congress and get the President’s approval to become law. It faces challenges, as tech companies spent millions to block it last time. With growing concerns about tech giants, this bill could change how app stores work.

  • New apps coming to iPadOS 26 and a watchOS 26 warning

    New apps coming to iPadOS 26 and a watchOS 26 warning

    Apple’s upcoming iPadOS 26 update will bring four new apps to all supported iPads: Phone, Preview, Journal, and Games. The Phone app lets you make and receive calls directly on your iPad, a feature many users have long wanted.

    Preview makes it easy to view and edit images or PDFs, similar to its Mac counterpart, making it perfect for quick tasks like cropping photos. The Journal app offers a simple way to write down thoughts and memories, while the Games app pulls together App Store and Apple Arcade titles with features like leaderboards and achievements.

    These additions make iPads more versatile, though some users feel the simplified iPad mode could use more multitasking options like split view. On the other hand, if you own a Hermès Apple Watch, be cautious with watchOS 26 beta 2.

    Apple warns that this update causes Hermès watches to overheat, crash repeatedly, and fail to charge, likely due to issues with the Hermès watch face. The problem also affects iOS 26 beta 2, where the Apple Watch app on iPhones won’t open if paired with a Hermès model.

    Unpairing the watch fixes the app issue, but re-pairing doesn’t work. Apple advises avoiding these betas until the next update, expected soon, resolves the crashes. Both updates are part of Apple’s 2025 software overhaul, with iPadOS 26 set to launch in September. Stay tuned for more details as public betas roll out in July.

  • New AirTag expected in September or later

    New AirTag expected in September or later

    Apple’s next AirTag, dubbed AirTag 2, might hit shelves in September or later this year, according to a recent 9to5Mac report citing trusted sources. The updated tracker could be revealed alongside the iPhone 17 during Apple’s big fall event, which is less than three months away.

    The report also mentions that iOS 18.6 beta code suggests compatibility with the new AirTag, hinting at its upcoming release. One key upgrade for the AirTag 2 is better battery alerts. The current model shows when the battery is low in the Find My app, but the new version will notify users at two levels: low and very low.

    There’s speculation from 9to5Mac that this could mean a rechargeable battery, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple will likely stick with a replaceable one, as noted in his November 2024 newsletter. Originally, Gurman predicted a mid-2025 launch, around June or July, but the timeline has shifted to later this year.

    The AirTag 2 is expected to track items up to three times farther than the current model, thanks to a new chip. It’ll also have a tougher-to-remove speaker to prevent misuse, like stalking, while keeping a similar look to the original, released in April 2021. That first AirTag launched with products like the M1 iMac and iPhone 12 in purple. With these upgrades, the AirTag 2 promises better tracking and safety features, making it a handy tool for keeping tabs on your belongings.

  • Apple Sports app gets a fresh update with version 3.0

    Apple Sports app gets a fresh update with version 3.0

    The Apple Sports app just got a big upgrade with version 3.0, bringing three exciting changes to make following your favorite sports even better. First, there’s a new “Home” section where you can see all your favorite leagues in one spot and arrange them however you like.

    This makes it easier to keep track of everything you care about, unlike the older “My Leagues” section. Next, the app now includes men’s and women’s professional tennis, just in time for the Wimbledon tournament. You can check live scores for individual matches and look back at past game results.

    Whether it’s a Grand Slam or a major showdown, you’ll stay updated on tennis action all year long. Finally, baseball fans will love this: the app now shows pitcher and batter matchups right at the top of every game’s scoreboard. This gives you quick insights into the key players in each match.

    Launched in February 2024, the Apple Sports app keeps you in the loop with scores, stats, standings, and upcoming games for various leagues. This update makes it more user-friendly and packed with features to enhance your sports experience. Whether you’re a tennis enthusiast or a baseball lover, version 3.0 has something for you to enjoy.

  • New iPad Pro with M5 chip set for fall release

    New iPad Pro with M5 chip set for fall release

    Apple is gearing up to launch new iPad Pro models with its latest M5 chip later this year. According to reports, Samsung Display and LG Display have started mass-producing OLED screens for these devices. Last year, Samsung supplied the 11-inch OLED panels, while LG handled the 13-inch ones for the iPad Pro.

    This time, both companies will share production for both sizes, as Apple aims to strengthen its supply chain and expand OLED use. Plans are in place to bring OLED displays to the iPad mini in 2026 and the iPad Air in 2027. The upcoming iPad Pro won’t see big changes beyond the M5 chip, which will use TSMC’s advanced 3-nanometer technology for better performance and efficiency.

    One small tweak might be the Apple logo on the back, switching to a landscape orientation to look upright when used with a keyboard. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that these new iPad Pro models could hit stores around October, following the timeline of previous releases in 2018 and 2022.

    For comparison, the M4 iPad Pro models, which introduced OLED displays, a slimmer design, and Apple Pencil Pro support, launched in May 2024. This update focuses on performance rather than a major redesign, making it a solid but modest upgrade for iPad Pro fans.

  • What the iPhone 18 Pro screen might look like

    What the iPhone 18 Pro screen might look like

    Apple is working on big changes for the iPhone 18 Pro’s screen, expected to launch in September 2026. Two trusted sources have shared different ideas about how Apple might improve the display. One rumor suggests the iPhone 18 Pro will have Face ID hidden under the screen, leaving just a small hole for the front camera.

    This would make the screen look cleaner, with a tiny Dynamic Island or possibly none at all. Another source, however, thinks the Dynamic Island will stay but get smaller, keeping its familiar look while giving more screen space. Both ideas point to Apple’s goal of creating a nearly all-screen iPhone.

    The company has been moving toward this for years, starting with the iPhone X’s notch in 2017 and the Dynamic Island in 2022’s iPhone 14 Pro. A fully edge-to-edge display might not happen until 2027, but the iPhone 18 Pro could be a big step closer. These changes would make the phone look modern and give users more room for apps, videos, and games.

    The iPhone 18 Pro is also expected to keep its 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch screen sizes, so it won’t feel bigger in your hand. Fans are excited about a sleeker design, but some worry about losing the Dynamic Island’s unique style. Either way, Apple’s focus on a smoother, more open screen promises an exciting update for iPhone lovers.

  • New features in iOS 26 and AirTag 2 clues

    New features in iOS 26 and AirTag 2 clues

    Apple’s iOS 26 brings exciting updates, especially for its Image Playground app and hints of a new AirTag. The Image Playground app, first launched with iOS 18, now creates more lifelike cartoon-style images. Faces look more natural, with better eyes and hair that flows realistically.

    You can type simple phrases to make images in three styles: Animation, Sketch, or Illustration. iOS 26 improves details like facial expressions, hair variety, and backgrounds, making images feel more real. You can also add friends or family from your Photos app or use new styles like anime, powered by ChatGPT, for fun, creative results.

    When sharing, images are marked as AI-generated for clarity. Meanwhile, iOS 18.6 code reveals Apple is preparing for AirTag 2. The new tracker will work with iOS 18.6, not requiring iOS 26, which is great for users. It’s expected to have a tamper-proof speaker to prevent misuse, like stalking, and a stronger Ultra Wideband chip for tracking up to three times farther.

    There’s also talk of better battery alerts, possibly hinting at a rechargeable battery instead of the current coin cell. Apple might announce AirTag 2 in September 2025, likely alongside the iPhone event. These updates show Apple’s focus on creativity and safety, keeping users excited for what’s next.