Category: Apple

Apple has released the third public betas for iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, following closely on the heels of the developer betas. Additionally, the company has introduced the third beta of macOS Sequoia 15.6 and a new beta of watchOS 11.6. These updates offer public beta testers the chance to experience the latest features and fixes before the official release. Those who have registered for beta updates can conveniently download iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 through the Settings app by navigating to General > Software Update.

For Mac users, the update is available via the System Settings app. While no significant new features have been identified in the developer betas, the iOS 18.6 update is expected to introduce changes to the App Store for customers in the European Union. The upgrades are anticipated to primarily focus on minor enhancements and bug fixes. Similarly, no groundbreaking features were discovered in macOS Sequoia 15.6.

Looking ahead, Apple is also beta testing iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, which are currently limited to developers. A public beta for these updates is expected to be released soon. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has indicated that the public beta for iOS 26 will launch around July 23, allowing users to experiment with the upcoming features within the week. In other news, anticipation is building for the iPhone 17 series, expected to launch in September.

Reports have surfaced regarding color options for the devices, as well as features anticipated for the new Apple Watch Ultra 3. Apple is also expected to unveil a new Apple TV, which will include various enhancements.

Hello! I’m reaching out to those of you who own the Apple Watch Ultra 2. I’m curious about how the Find My feature compares to that of the iPhone, particularly regarding tracking an AirTag. Does the Apple Watch provide accurate guidance when you’re close to an AirTag, effectively pointing you in the right direction?

Additionally, are there functionalities that your iPhone can perform with an AirTag that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 cannot? My interest stems from my experience with an iPhone 12 and using AirTags to keep track of my cats, which has been quite effective. With the new AirTags released, I hope to locate my cats more efficiently at night and from greater distances. I am considering purchasing the Apple Watch Ultra 3 later this year but prefer to hold off on getting a new iPhone for another year.

However, if the Find My app on the Apple Watch Ultra lacks essential features that the iPhone provides, I might reconsider and opt for the next iPhone instead of the watch. Thank you for your insights!

Hello,

I have been charging my Apple Watch AW4 using its original charger cable. Recently, I acquired a new fast charger, the Ugreen Nexode 100W, which has four USB-C and one USB-A ports. However, I’ve started noticing a peculiar issue with the watch. When it is on the charger, the device lights up and pings roughly every 20 seconds, and this continues indefinitely.

Interestingly, this doesn’t occur consistently. In my attempts to diagnose this behavior, I have developed three theories. First, it may stem from the Power Delivery specification, which renegotiates the wattage allocated to each active port when another device is connected. Second, there might be a problem with the Nexode charger itself.

Lastly, the issue could originate from the Apple charger cable. I found it odd that the watch continues to ping and light up even when other devices are connected. For instance, when I attached a small power bank that was at 34%, the watch behaved similarly. However, when the power bank was nearly fully charged, the AW4 did not exhibit this lighting and pinging behavior.

Considering theory two seems credible, I also tried connecting an old iPhone 8 with a USB-A to Lightning cable. In this scenario, the watch did not show any irregular behavior, regardless of whether the iPhone’s battery level was low or high. Thus, I am inclined to believe that the issue might be related to the charging cable itself. I would appreciate any insights or experiences anyone may have with this issue, particularly regarding the compatibility of the Apple Watch charger cable with a higher wattage charging brick.

Thank you in advance for your assistance. Philip

When setting up and using an iPad without an Apple ID, there are certain security risks to consider. While the device will still receive necessary security and software updates, lacking an Apple Account limits access to some features that enhance security and privacy. Without an Apple ID, users cannot utilize Advanced Data Protection, which provides additional layers of security for personal data.

This absence can expose any sensitive information stored on the iPad, particularly if the device is lost or accessed by someone else. If someone gains physical access to the iPad, they may easily view or extract personal data unless third-party applications are individually secured. Moreover, without an Apple ID, users miss out on features like Find My iPad, which can help locate a lost device.

Losing the iPad could result in a total loss of data since there would be no way to track or remotely wipe the device. Overall, while it’s possible to use an iPad without an Apple Account, doing so increases vulnerability to data breaches and unauthorized access. Users must take extra precautions, such as setting strong passcodes and ensuring any third-party applications are individually protected to minimize risks.

Ultimately, having an Apple ID enhances security, providing essential features that help safeguard personal information and ensure a more secure user experience.

Apple has recently announced a substantial investment of $500 billion in the United States over the next four years. This initiative includes a noteworthy expansion of the company’s domestic manufacturing and research capabilities. The commitment follows a meeting between CEO Tim Cook and President Donald Trump, emphasizing Apple’s focus on enhancing its presence in the U.S.

Among the significant developments is the construction of a new server manufacturing facility in Houston, which Apple will build in collaboration with Foxconn. This facility, spanning 250,000 square feet, is set to open next year and will be responsible for producing servers intended for Apple’s Private Cloud Compute system. Additionally, Apple plans to establish a supplier academy in Michigan aimed at training the next generation of American manufacturers.

The company will also broaden its data center operations in several states, including Arizona, Oregon, Iowa, Nevada, and North Carolina. Chip production has already commenced at TSMC’s Arizona facility, which is manufacturing components for various Apple products. Apple anticipates creating 20,000 new jobs primarily concentrated in research and development, silicon engineering, and artificial intelligence.

This aligns with the company’s previous five-year hiring effort, which added an equivalent number of R&D positions. In Detroit, Apple intends to bolster manufacturing education by launching a dedicated academy to support smaller firms. Furthermore, the company plans to double its U.S. manufacturing fund to $10 billion.

In a statement, Cook expressed optimism for American innovation, stating that Apple is proud to enhance its long-standing commitments with this investment. The timing of this announcement is likely strategic, considering Trump’s threats of an additional 10% tax on Chinese imports, reminding observers of how Cook previously advocated against tariffs that would disadvantage Apple.

Hearing Health features vary by region, and not all options may be accessible everywhere. Specifically, the Hearing Test and Hearing Aid functionalities are subject to regulation; thus, they require proper authorization before they can be made available to users. To determine if these features are supported in your area, please refer to the relevant sections.

Both the Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features are compatible with AirPods Pro 2, provided they are updated to the latest firmware. Additionally, users need to pair these devices with a compatible iPhone or iPad running iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 or later. These features are designed for individuals aged 18 and older, ensuring they cater to adult users effectively.

Moreover, the Hearing Aid feature is also accessible on certain compatible Mac computers that operate on macOS Sequoia or later. This aspect allows users to benefit from enhanced auditory support, specifically tailored for those experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss. It is crucial for users to have the appropriate devices and software versions to take full advantage of these health features.

Certain features of watchOS may not be accessible in all regions or for every language. To determine whether a specific feature is supported in your location and preferred language, you can explore the available options provided below. It’s important to recognize that the availability of some watchOS functionalities can vary significantly depending on geographical and linguistic factors. Therefore, checking the compatibility of these features with your setup is advisable.

Feel free to navigate through the list of features to confirm their accessibility in your area and language preferences. This will help ensure you can fully utilize your device’s capabilities.

Visit our Apple stores to experience the best of what we offer. Here, you can shop for a variety of products while receiving expert advice from our knowledgeable staff in person. One of the most exciting ways to save is through our incredible carrier deals.

Take advantage of special offers on new iPhones with providers like AT&T, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile, or Verizon. These deals make it easier than ever to own the latest technology. If you have an eligible device, consider taking advantage of our trade-in program.

Bring in your old device, and we’ll provide you with instant credit towards your next purchase. This is a great way to save money while upgrading to a new device. For added convenience, we offer the option to pay monthly with 0% APR when you select Apple Card Monthly Installments.

This makes it easier to manage your budget while enjoying your new purchases. Additionally, if you prefer to shop online, we have a streamlined process for you to buy products online and have them ready for pickup at your nearest store. Whether you choose to visit us in person or shop from home, we are here to assist you in finding the best Apple products for your needs.

Come take a look at what we have available today!

Apple has announced the permanent closure of its retail store located at the Northbrook Court shopping mall in the Chicago area. This decision was confirmed in a statement from the company, although a specific closing date has not yet been provided. Opened in 2005, the Apple Northbrook store relocated to a larger space within the mall in 2017. In its statement, Apple addressed the impact on employees, assuring that they will retain their positions within the company.

“At Apple, we’re always focused on providing an exceptional experience for all of our customers,” the statement read. It went on to explain that the decision to close was influenced by the evolving redevelopment plans at Northbrook Court Mall and the departure of several other retailers. Apple expressed gratitude for having served the Northbrook community for nearly two decades and indicated that its team members would be available in one of the eight other Chicagoland locations, as well as online. The closure adds to a growing list of challenges for Northbrook Court, which is struggling to retain its tenants and is considered to be a declining shopping destination.

In recent years, several major retailers, including Lululemon, have exited the mall. While Apple has closed some locations, it has also expanded its global footprint with new store openings, including recent additions in Miami, Malaysia, and plans for a new store in Downtown Detroit. Overall, despite the setbacks, Apple remains focused on providing its services and products to customers through its various platforms, ensuring that dedicated employees continue to play a role in the company’s retail operations.

Discover the best of Apple products at our stores. Experience personalized shopping and receive expert advice directly from our knowledgeable staff. When it comes to savings, Apple has you covered. Explore fantastic carrier deals on iPhones, featuring offers from AT&T, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

There’s something for everyone, and you’ll be amazed at the value available. Additionally, consider our Trade-In program. If you have an eligible device, you can bring it in and receive instant credit towards your purchase. This is a great way to reduce costs while upgrading to the latest technology.

For added convenience, take advantage of Apple Card Monthly Installments. With this option, you can pay monthly at 0% APR and enjoy your new device without breaking the bank. Prefer to get your new device right away? Shop online and we’ll prepare it for pickup at your chosen location.

Enjoy the streamlined experience of being able to buy online while still having the option to pick up in-store. Visit us today to explore all these amazing offers and see why Apple is your go-to destination for gadget needs.