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  • 5 Compelling Reasons to Pass on the iPhone 17 Pro This Year

    Apple is set to unveil its new iPhone 17 series in two months, with the iPhone 17 Pro models anticipated to introduce a redesigned rear casing and camera area. However, substantial changes to the iPhone lineup are not expected until next year, when the iPhone 18 models are released. For those considering trading in their current iPhone for the latest version, it’s worth looking ahead to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.

    These models are rumored to feature several significant upgrades, including under-display Face ID that will place the TrueDepth camera beneath the screen, while the front-facing camera will still be visible. There is some debate among sources about whether the Dynamic Island will remain, particularly in its current form. Another exciting addition is the new C2 modem, which aims to improve speed and efficiency, while also supporting mmWave 5G in the United States—something the current C1 modem lacks.

    This investment reflects Apple’s broader objective to minimize its dependence on Qualcomm by developing its own cellular chips. Performance-wise, the upcoming A20 Pro chip is likely to be built on TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process and may offer modest year-over-year gains. A new camera image sensor from Samsung, designed to enhance responsiveness and dynamic range, is also expected to debut in the 2026 iPhone models.

    Looking further ahead, Apple is rumored to be working on its first foldable iPhone, aimed for release in fall 2026. This innovation is expected to feature a display that folds like a book and boasts a thinner profile than previous models. As the iPhone 18 series approaches, it’s clear that Apple is gearing up for a transformative shift in its smartphone offerings.

  • How to Remove Contact Photos from the Mail App on Your iPhone – MacRumors

    With the release of iOS 18.2, Apple made significant updates to the Mail app, introducing new features like Categories and priority messages. The Categories feature automatically organizes emails into four sections: Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions. Additionally, the update includes contact photos and business logos alongside emails to help users identify senders more easily.

    However, some users might find these visual elements unappealing and may want to remove them. Contact photos aim to enhance sender recognition in the Mail app. Yet, if Apple’s system cannot identify a business or if a contact lacks a photo, the appearance of the inbox can become cluttered.

    Thankfully, users can choose to turn off these visual features without much hassle. For those looking to disable contact photos, here’s a simple guide:

    1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

    2. Scroll to the bottom and select **Apps**. 3.

    Locate **Mail** in the list of applications. 4. Under the “Message List” section, toggle off the switch next to **Show Contact Photos**.

    This straightforward process will remove the contact pictures from your inbox. If you wish to restore them later, you can simply revisit the same settings and toggle the option back on. In case you are also dissatisfied with the new Categories system in the Mail app, you can disable it as well.

    The process is easy to follow, although details are available in external resources for step-by-step guidance. Overall, these updates to the Mail app aim to enhance user experience, but individual preferences for interface design can vary significantly.

  • iOS 26.4 Introduces 9 Exciting New Emojis for Your iPhone – MacRumors

    In honor of World Emoji Day on July 17, the Unicode Consortium showcased a preview of the upcoming emojis tied to Unicode 17.0. Among the exciting additions are a trombone, treasure chest, distorted face, hairy creature (Bigfoot/Sasquatch), fight cloud, apple core, orca, ballet dancers, and a landslide.

    The distorted face emoji, in particular, has gained popularity in Discord communities as a quirky variation of the embarrassed face emoji, also known as the flushed face. Unicode 17.0 is set to roll out later this year; however, it typically takes Apple several months to design these new emojis in their distinct style.

    Consequently, users can expect to see these new emojis on various Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro, with the anticipated update coming in iOS 26.4 and its counterparts for other platforms next March or April. Recently, Apple introduced new emojis in the iOS 18.4 update released in late March, following similar updates in previous versions.

    Meanwhile, rumors about the upcoming iPhone 17 models have intensified as the release approaches. Speculation suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro models may feature an aluminum frame, differing from the titanium frame seen in earlier models.

    Key changes and features are expected as Apple prepares for the annual iPhone announcement event, tentatively scheduled for the week of September 8, 2025. Additionally, discussions surrounding a foldable iPhone have surfaced, with analysts estimating a starting price between $1,800 and $2,000, making it potentially the most expensive iPhone to date.

    As we look forward to these developments, Apple’s public betas for iOS 26 are expected to be available next week, enhancing anticipation for the future of Apple devices and software.

  • Apple Announces Automakers Set to Feature CarPlay Ultra – MacRumors

    A few months ago, Apple introduced CarPlay Ultra, marking the long-anticipated next-generation version of its in-car software. Currently, CarPlay Ultra is available exclusively in newer Aston Martin vehicles in the U.S. and Canada. However, for those who cannot afford luxury cars priced at around $250,000, Apple plans to extend the software to more affordable vehicles in the future. Apple has mentioned that multiple automakers worldwide are expected to adopt CarPlay Ultra over the next year.

    Notable mentions include several Korean brands such as Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Porsche has also confirmed its commitment to integrating CarPlay Ultra into its vehicles. The preview of this next-generation software was first showcased at WWDC 2022, accompanied by a list of automakers committed to implementing the system. This list included manufacturers like Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, and Mercedes-Benz, but it has since become outdated.

    According to a recent report from the Financial Times, at least five of these automakers, namely Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Polestar, Renault, and Volvo, have since announced they will not support CarPlay Ultra. As it stands now, Aston Martin currently supports CarPlay Ultra, while Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, and Porsche are set to implement it soon. In contrast, brands like Audi, BMW, and General Motors—who have phased out regular CarPlay in their electric vehicles—are unlikely to adopt the ultra version. There are still several automakers whose plans remain uncertain, including Toyota, Lexus, and Volkswagen.

    Meanwhile, brands like Honda, Acura, and Nissan fall into a “maybe” category, indicating potential but unconfirmed support for the new system.

  • MacRumors Forums for Wine and Beer Lovers: Share Your Passions and Discover New Favorites!

    The Russian River Valley is gaining a reputation for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Recently, I’ve also delved into Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne, exploring both their individual expressions and blends. I’ve had the privilege of tasting exquisite wines from regions like Pauillac and Margaux.

    Chateau Margaux stands out as a dream wine for me, and I would love the opportunity to savor a glass one day. While I have yet to experience any Premiers Crus—except for a delightful Sauternes—I fondly remember enjoying a 1982 Château Rauzan-Ségla, which is a Deuxièmes Crus. It was quite some time ago, but sharing that bottle with my father left a lasting impression.

    Although I primarily drink wine casually, I always appreciate a well-crafted cabernet sauvignon. Although my primary preferences lie with whiskey, scotch, and beer, there are two standout beers that come to mind: Chimay Grande Reserve (Blue) and Aventinus Eisbock. I enjoy IPAs and Ambers, while I tend to shy away from dark porters.

    When it comes to wine, I have a particular fondness for Bas-Médoc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling from Rheinhessen. Living close to Belgium means I never lack for excellent brews. Over the last decade, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the rise of American Craft Beer, which has transformed significantly since the 1980s.

    I appreciate a wide range of styles, including Belgian, English, and American ales, though fruit beers are not my preference. One of my favorites is Stone’s Arrogant Bastard Ale. As for food pairings, my approach tends to depend on the dish.

    Traditional pairing rules are a helpful guideline, but I’ve enjoyed red wine with poultry on occasion. I often wonder how red wine might complement fish or sushi.

  • Comparing Display Quality: Macbook Pro 13 M1 vs Macbook Air 13 M4

    I own a 2020 MacBook 13″ M1, not the Pro version, and I’ve encountered a frustrating issue. After just 3.5 years of use, the touch bar has started flickering and emitting a bright white light, which is incredibly distracting. Unfortunately, I did not purchase AppleCare, and repairing it will likely cost over $500. This issue seems to be quite common, so it’s disappointing that Apple doesn’t address it more readily.

    My previous Mac lasted me nine years, so I had some concerns about the reliability of the touch bar. Given this situation, I am preparing for the possibility of needing to buy a new Mac, ideally one without the touch bar. The M4 Air appears to fit my needs, particularly since I primarily use my computer for everyday tasks rather than demanding work. However, I have some reservations about how the M4 Air might compare to my current 2020 M1 model.

    Specifically, I am interested in understanding any potential downsides of the M4 Air. My main concern is whether the display quality will meet or exceed what I am currently experiencing. I’ve heard that the newer model may have less battery life and cooling efficiency, which is something I’m also keeping in mind as I weigh my options. Overall, I want to ensure that I make a well-informed decision should I need to make a purchase soon.

    Thank you for any insights you can provide.

  • Reasons Behind Subscription-Based Pricing for IPTV Apps

    I’ve observed a trend on Apple TV where the majority of services operate on a monthly subscription model instead of a one-time purchase option. It seems that almost all available content requires a recurring fee rather than a straightforward buy-once-for-lifetime-access scenario.

    This raises the question: are there any apps on the App Store that offer a fixed fee upon purchase? It would be interesting to find alternatives that do not bind users to ongoing subscription payments.

    Many people prefer the simplicity and transparency of a one-time fee as it avoids continuous billing and provides a sense of ownership over the content they purchase. If anyone has insights or suggestions regarding such applications, please share them.

    It’s always beneficial to know about interesting options that allow for individual purchases without the weight of monthly commitments.

  • Ever wake up and feel like you’re clawing at your watch?

    I’ve experienced this situation multiple times, and it happened again last night. I suspect it’s because I haven’t been wearing my watch to bed lately, and my body is simply unaccustomed to the change.

    This morning, I took a close look at it, and fortunately, there doesn’t appear to be any damage. It’s quite a strange occurrence!

    Having relied on my watch for sleep tracking, any disruption in that routine can be unsettling. I find it fascinating how our bodies adapt to certain habits, and when those habits change, we can have odd experiences as a result.

    Despite the confusion, it’s a relief to know that my watch is still in good condition. I’ll be more mindful of my nighttime routine moving forward, perhaps incorporating the watch back into my sleep schedule.

    After all, small changes can make a big difference in how we feel and function daily. It’s interesting to think about how the absence of a familiar object can throw off our senses.

    I’ll keep an eye out for any further odd incidents, hoping that this was just a one-time occurrence. Here’s to a more consistent night’s sleep ahead!

  • Still Loving My Apple Watch Ultra 2—Join the Discussion!

    After nearly a year of using my Ultra 2, I just have to say it’s fantastic! I truly cannot think of a single aspect that I dislike about it. Remarkably, it still looks brand new with no marks or scratches, despite my daily use.

    I wear it for around 23 hours each day, only taking it off when I wake up in the morning to charge it while I have breakfast and shower. My Ultra 2 accompanies me on my delivery job every day. It’s a physical job that involves a lot of movement, yet the watch holds up perfectly.

    Additionally, I take it swimming with me at the local beach throughout the year, and it remains resilient. I’ve had no issues whatsoever apart from perhaps the cost of the bands. However, every single band I’ve purchased from Ali Express is still going strong, so the investment has been worth it.

    Overall, I’m incredibly pleased with my Ultra 2. It has exceeded my expectations in both durability and functionality. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish smartwatch that can handle daily wear and tear while still looking great.

    In summary, the Ultra 2 has proven to be an excellent companion for my lifestyle, providing all the features I need without any drawbacks. It has certainly enhanced my daily experience, whether at work or during my leisure activities. I can’t imagine using anything else!

  • What watch face do you currently have set?

    I’m currently utilizing the Infograph watch face on my Apple Watch, which allows me to make use of all eight available complications. I find them all quite beneficial and have opted for a black background to create a more professional appearance. I’ve also been rotating through various straps to complement this sophisticated look. As for email management, I’m using Outlook as my mail client on both my iPhone and Apple Watch.

    I’ve found that emails are significantly more readable on the Apple Watch with this application. In contrast, using Apple’s mail complication is quite cumbersome; I feel like I need a telescope to make out the text. This change has greatly reduced the number of times I need to reach for my phone throughout the day. How about you?

    What watch face and complications do you prefer?