Category: Apple

Apple has released a revised version of the first iOS 26 beta tailored specifically for developers. This new update is exclusively available for iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models, meaning that users of iPhone 14 or earlier versions will not have access to this beta. Registered developers can download the updated beta software directly through the Settings app on their devices. This revision addresses a notable issue that affected some iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 users, where a low battery symbol could prevent the device from starting after updating to the initial iOS 26 beta.

The latest iOS 26 includes several new features first showcased at Apple’s recent keynote event, including a fresh Liquid Glass design that is integrated throughout the update. In addition to the aesthetic changes, iOS 26 boasts a plethora of enhancements across various applications, including Messages, Phone, Safari, Music, and Photos. While the current beta is designed for developers to familiarize themselves with the new features and make adjustments to their apps, Apple plans to roll out a public beta in July. The full public release of iOS 26, along with updates for iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, watchOS 26, and visionOS 26, is scheduled for September.

As interest in new Apple products grows, analysts are speculating about upcoming releases, including the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and iPhone 17 lineup. Meanwhile, residents in a few U.S. states can now store their driver’s licenses or state IDs in the Wallet app on their iPhones or Apple Watches, but the rollout for this feature has been gradual since its announcement in 2021.

Foxconn, a key supplier for Apple, is predicted to commence production of Apple’s foldable iPhone towards the end of the third quarter of 2025, likely in September or early October. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared that the launch of this device is anticipated as part of the iPhone 18 lineup in the fall of 2026. Despite being close to the production start date, many specifications for the phone’s components remain undecided.

However, the foldable display, manufactured by Samsung Display, is ready. Reports indicate that when closed, the foldable iPhone’s display will measure around 5.5 inches and expand to approximately 7.8 inches when opened. This design will allow it to fold like a book, similar to the Galaxy Fold, rather than the Galaxy Flip.

The device promises remarkable thinness, measuring as slim as 4.5mm when unfolded and 9 to 9.5mm when closed. Apple has invested significantly in developing the hinge design, aiming to ensure minimal visible creases on the device’s screen. Instead of Face ID, the foldable iPhone might incorporate an under-display Touch ID functionality due to spatial limitations.

The pricing for this advanced smartphone is expected to range between $2,000 and $2,500, a projection made even before Apple had to deal with significant tariffs in China. Kuo estimates that Samsung Display will manufacture between seven to eight million foldable panels for Apple in 2026, alongside an order for a total of 15 to 20 million foldable iPhones. He believes that this inventory would serve Apple for two to three years, though demand may be limited due to the high cost.

While Apple envisions a fall 2026 release, Kuo cautions that these plans are still subject to change as production approaches.

Apple has released the first public beta versions of iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 for public beta testers, just days after making the updates available to developers. Those who are enrolled in Apple’s beta program can easily download the updates on compatible devices by navigating to the Settings app, then General, and selecting Software Update. Currently, there are no significant new features identified in these beta versions.

Although Apple had initially planned to introduce the Apple Intelligence feature in the iOS 18.6 beta for China, regulatory challenges may have delayed this rollout. As of now, the updates appear to primarily focus on minor enhancements and bug fixes. In addition to iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, Apple is also in the process of beta testing the upcoming iOS 26 and iPadOS 26.

While these more advanced versions are only available to developers at this stage, a public beta is expected to be released in July. In other news, analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities Hong Kong has reported that Apple is projected to unveil the Apple Watch Ultra 3 sometime this year. Both the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 are anticipated to be announced alongside the iPhone 17 lineup, based on previous product launch patterns.

Rumors regarding the iPhone 17 Pro models are also circulating, indicating changes such as a potential switch to an aluminum frame rather than the titanium frame used in its predecessors. Meanwhile, select U.S. states have allowed their residents to add driver’s licenses or state IDs to the Wallet app on their iPhones, although this feature’s rollout has been relatively slow since its announcement in 2021.

Federico Vittici from *MacStories*, known for his emphasis on the iPad as a primary computing device, recently interviewed Craig Federighi, Apple’s software engineering chief. They explored the iPad and the upcoming changes to iPadOS this fall. Federighi discussed the years of experimentation that have been essential to developing multitasking for the iPad.

He emphasized the need for a nuanced approach to creating a multitasking experience that suits the unique nature of the device. “Figuring out what the right multitasking experience is for this device has deserved careful exploration,” he stated, noting that he uses an iPad daily. Apple aimed to create a seamless user experience by minimizing the complexities of app management, which led to the initial, limited versions of Slide Over and Split View multitasking.

Maintaining the iPad’s simplicity and interactivity has always been paramount for Apple. According to Federighi, the touch-first approach is “non-negotiable.” With the introduction of Stage Manager in 2022, Federighi explained that Apple’s understanding of the iPad’s distinctiveness allowed them to provide more flexibility in multitasking options for developers.

He conveyed concerns that adding Mac-like features to the iPad could deter developers from creating innovative apps tailored to the iPad’s simpler interface. Over time, Apple has recognized that users have varying needs, with some preferring a straightforward, immersive interface while others seek more robust functionality. Federighi pointed out that it’s been a journey to identify the appropriate interface for the iPad in collaboration with its users.

Apple remains cautious about merging iPadOS and macOS; Federighi likened the approach to a spork—combining the two wouldn’t result in an optimal tool for either. Instead, he believes the iPad should be inspired by Mac elements without adopting macOS itself.

Apple has announced the release of the first beta versions of iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 for developers as testing begins. This update follows the earlier release of iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5 over a month ago. Developers can download iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 through the Settings app on compatible devices by navigating to General > Software Update.

One of the anticipated features of the iOS 18.6 update may include the introduction of Apple Intelligence in China, which could involve partnerships with Alibaba and Baidu for AI functionality. However, the rollout might face delays due to regulatory challenges Apple is currently navigating within China. As of now, specific new features for iOS 18.6 remain largely undisclosed.

Apple is progressively shifting its focus from iOS 18 to iOS 26, the latter of which is currently in beta testing and is expected to be released in September. In related news, the much-anticipated iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are set to launch in three months, with numerous rumors surrounding their design and features. Notably, the new models may feature an aluminum frame, contrasting with the titanium frame of the previous Pro series.

Furthermore, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to be released later this year, following two years after its predecessor. While no significant design changes are anticipated for the third-generation model, it is expected to come with various internal enhancements. Additional reports indicate a visual refresh for the Terminal app in macOS Tahoe, marking its first notable redesign since its debut.

Ultimately, Apple’s update strategy suggests a dynamic roadmap ahead, with ongoing developments across its product line.

Apple has released the first developer betas of its new operating systems, including iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. These betas are now available for registered developers to download through the Settings app on their devices.

The updates showcase several new features revealed during the recent keynote event, along with a refreshing Liquid Glass design aesthetic across all operating systems. Notably, Apple has revamped the numbering system for its updates, promoting greater consistency across its software lineup.

Developers can explore the new features in depth as they prepare their applications for the upcoming changes. Public beta testing is anticipated to begin in July, offering a wider audience a chance to experience the new software.

The official public release for all mentioned operating systems is expected in September. In addition, rumors surrounding the iPhone 17 Pro models suggest several key design changes, including a shift from titanium to an aluminum frame.

These models are slated to launch in three months, coinciding with the introduction of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 will presumably arrive later this year, two years after its predecessor, featuring internal upgrades while maintaining a similar design.

Another notable update is the visual refresh of Apple’s Terminal app in macOS Tahoe, its first significant design change since its inception. Enhanced support for 24-bit color and Powerline fonts will accompany the new Liquid Glass aesthetic in this version of macOS.

Additionally, iOS 26 has been confirmed to support devices starting from the iPhone 11 series onward, phasing out the iPhone XS and XR while continuing security updates for those models. Lastly, iOS 26 aims to enhance the Lock Screen’s customizability, with new features expected to be available by the time the software launches to the public.

Apple’s Terminal app is set to receive a significant visual update in macOS Tahoe, marking its first notable redesign since the application was introduced. This update, highlighted during Apple’s State of the Platforms presentation at WWDC25, aims to modernize the user experience for this essential command-line tool.

The revamped Terminal will support 24-bit color and incorporate Powerline fonts, enhancing the aesthetic quality of the app. Additionally, it will feature the new Liquid Glass design, which aligns with the broader visual enhancements being introduced in macOS 26.

While the Terminal has traditionally offered a range of color profiles, the updated version promises improved customization options, allowing users to present system information in more visually engaging formats. This modernization comes as a welcome change for developers and power users who rely on the Terminal for various tasks.

For over twenty years, the app has largely maintained its original look and functionality, making this refresh a significant leap forward in usability and design. macOS Tahoe is expected to launch this fall, with the developer beta already available.

The first public beta is anticipated to be released in July, exciting users eager to explore the new features and improvements. Overall, this update signifies a strategic move by Apple to enhance user experience in an area that plays a crucial role in software development and advanced system management.

Recently, I’ve taken a renewed interest in Apple’s productivity apps: Pages, Numbers, and Keynote. After ignoring them for quite some time, I’ve found that I really appreciate their features and design. However, I can’t help but wonder why these applications aren’t more popular, especially given their availability on Mac.

It seems that despite their user-friendly interface and unique functionalities, most people still prefer to use Microsoft Office, even on Mac computers. The dominance of Microsoft Office is evident in many workplaces and educational institutions. This raises questions about the reasons behind the widespread loyalty to Office, even though alternatives like Apple’s suite exist.

Personally, I’ve been using OnlyOffice for the past few years. One of the key reasons for this choice is its seamless integration with my Nextcloud instance. This combination allows me to manage my documents effectively while maintaining a level of privacy and control over my data.

OnlyOffice’s compatibility with Microsoft formats also makes it a convenient option for collaborating with others who may still rely on Office products. While Pages, Numbers, and Keynote may not have the same level of recognition as Microsoft Office, they certainly provide a robust set of tools for users looking for simplicity and elegance. Perhaps it’s a matter of familiarity and compatibility that keeps users tethered to Microsoft.

Nonetheless, I think there’s a lot to explore in Apple’s offering, and I look forward to delving deeper into their capabilities.

This week’s special episode of The MacRumors Show features a recap of Apple’s significant announcements from WWDC 2025. Recorded live at Apple Park, the episode highlights several key updates across Apple’s platforms.

Apple has introduced a uniform naming scheme for its operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and macOS, with versioning now based on calendar years. The release of macOS 26, also known as “Tahoe,” will be the final version to support Intel-based Macs.

The new Liquid Glass design language, inspired by visionOS, brings a dynamic and immersive home screen experience, marking Apple’s most extensive visual refresh since iOS 7. Many features in iOS 26 carry over to other platforms.

Notable updates include group chat enhancements in Messages, a new Games app that consolidates event feeds and social features, and a redesigned Phone app extended to iPad and Mac. The Photos app adopts a tabbed interface, while Apple Music introduces various new features, including animated album art and lyric translations.

Maps now incorporates a “Visited Places” feature that leverages on-device intelligence. In watchOS 26, the Workout app gets an updated layout, and users can benefit from an AI fitness coach called Workout Buddy.

VisionOS 26 enables users to place widgets in their physical space, and improved customization options are introduced. Furthermore, iPadOS 26 embraces a macOS-style windowing system, which enhances multitasking.

The new applications and tools improve developer access to Apple’s generative AI features. In this episode, we’re joined by YouTuber Kevin Nether, known as “Kevin the Tech Ninja,” to discuss these exciting announcements.

I have a 27″ iMac that has been protected by AppleCare+ for several years. Recently, I’ve noticed some burn-in developing around the edges of the screen, particularly when displaying white pages or applications. This issue has become more pronounced over time, and it’s concerning since I’ve relied on this machine for quite a while. I plan to reach out to AppleCare this weekend to discuss my situation.

However, I’m aware that there’s no way to predict what their response will be until I speak with them. Given the age of my iMac, my preference would be to receive some form of credit toward purchasing a new machine instead of going through the hassle of a lengthy repair process. I’m also curious if anyone else has faced a similar issue and what their resolution was. It would be helpful to hear about others’ experiences, particularly regarding how Apple handled their cases and whether they were able to get a credit or a replacement.

This information could provide useful insights as I prepare for my conversation with AppleCare. I hope to navigate this process smoothly and find a satisfactory solution for my aging iMac.