Tag: Apple

  • 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.

  • Apple fights court’s tough App Store ruling in Epic Games dispute

    Apple fights court’s tough App Store ruling in Epic Games dispute

    Apple is pushing back against a court’s strict order in its ongoing legal clash with Epic Games, the creators of Fortnite. The company filed an appeal on June 24, 2025, asking the Ninth Circuit Court to overturn a decision that stops Apple from charging fees on in-app purchases made outside its App Store.

    Apple also wants a new judge if the case returns to the lower court, arguing the current judge, Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, might not be fair due to past rulings. The fight started in 2021 when Epic won a court order allowing developers to guide users to other payment options.

    However, in April 2025, Judge Rogers found Apple didn’t follow this order and was acting unfairly by still charging a 27% fee on outside payments. She issued a stronger rule, banning Apple from collecting any fees on these transactions, calling it a punishment for not obeying the court.

    Apple says this new rule goes too far, hurts its business, and isn’t fair under California law or the U.S. Constitution. The company argues it has spent years building a safe and trusted App Store, and this order could harm users and developers.

    Epic Games, meanwhile, stayed quiet on the latest appeal. Apple’s appeal aims to protect its control over the App Store while keeping the platform secure. The outcome could shape how app stores work and affect developers and users alike.

  • What’s coming for Apple TV 4K and iPhone 17 Pro in 2025

    What’s coming for Apple TV 4K and iPhone 17 Pro in 2025

    Apple is gearing up for exciting updates to its Apple TV 4K and iPhone 17 Pro, set to launch later in 2025. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect from these new devices.
    For the Apple TV 4K, it’s been almost three years since the last update in 2022, and a new model is coming soon.

    According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the device is planned for a late 2025 release, likely in October or November. It will feature a faster chip, possibly the A17 Pro or A18, to support better gaming and Apple Intelligence features like an improved Siri. There’s also talk of a built-in camera for FaceTime calls and gesture controls, plus a new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip for smoother connections. Some hope for a lower price, maybe under $100, to compete with other streaming devices.

    The iPhone 17 Pro is also getting a fresh look. It will swap the usual camera bump for a sleek “camera bar” that stretches across the back, creating a cleaner design. Dummy units shared by Majin Bu show this in black.

    The phone will boast a 48MP telephoto lens, multi-camera video recording, and a 24MP front camera for sharper selfies. These upgrades aim to enhance photography and video, launching alongside other iPhones in September. Both devices show Apple’s focus on smarter tech and better user experiences, making them 2025 must-haves.

  • Apple’s iCloud hiccup and Invites App update

    Apple’s iCloud hiccup and Invites App update

    Apple faced a hiccup with its iCloud services, causing trouble for some users. According to Apple’s System Status page, services like iCloud Mail, Photos, iWork, and account sign-ins were affected, starting around 2:36 p.m. Eastern Time. Users reported issues like being unable to access files or photos or facing slow syncing.

    The Find My service was briefly down but fixed by 6:41 p.m. Eastern Time. However, other services continued to have problems, leaving some users frustrated as they couldn’t access their data smoothly. Apple is working to resolve these issues, but no clear reason for the outage has been shared yet.

    In brighter news, Apple updated its Invites app to version 1.3, adding a bunch of new background options for event planning. The app, launched earlier in 2025, helps users organize events like pool parties or game nights with custom invitations.

    The new backgrounds make invites more fun and fitting for different occasions, from casual hangouts to big celebrations. While the app supports creating AI-generated backgrounds with Image Playground, these new built-in options are especially helpful for users with older iPhones that don’t support Apple Intelligence.

    You need an iCloud+ subscription, starting at $0.99 per month, to create events, but anyone can RSVP, even without an iPhone, using a web browser. The update makes event planning more colorful and user-friendly.

  • New iOS 26 tool hints at AirPods Pro 3 with cameras

    New iOS 26 tool hints at AirPods Pro 3 with cameras

    Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update brings a cool feature that might show AirPods Pro 3 could have cameras. The new tool, called Camera Remote, allows you to use AirPods to take photos or record videos on your iPhone. You just tap or hold the AirPods stem to control the camera, much like the Apple Watch’s camera app.

    This feature stands out because it’s tucked into a new iOS 26 settings menu labeled “Camera Control,” with no other options yet. This makes it seem like Apple is planning something big, possibly for AirPods Pro 3. Rumors suggest these earbuds, expected in 2025 or 2026, might include cameras. Analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo say they could have infrared cameras, while Mark Gurman hints at AI-powered features to understand your surroundings.

    With cameras, AirPods Pro 3 could let you capture your environment by tapping the stem, then use AI to give you info through your earbuds. If Apple adds full photo features, tapping once might take a picture, while holding could activate smart visual tools, similar to the iPhone’s Camera Control button. The Camera Remote tool in iOS 26 feels like a clue that Apple is getting ready for AirPods Pro 3 with cameras.