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  • Access Your Favorite Messages Chat Directly from Your iPhone Lock Screen – MacRumors

    In iOS 18.4, Apple introduced a new Shortcuts action that allows users to open a specific conversation in the Messages app directly. This feature enables you to access important chat threads from your Lock Screen, making it convenient for quick communication. For those who often reach out to a specific contact, utilizing this new shortcut can significantly reduce the time it takes to initiate a conversation.

    By placing a shortcut to a spouse or family member’s chat thread on your Lock Screen, you can engage with them swiftly without navigating through the app. This is particularly useful for urgent updates or daily check-ins. Moreover, the shortcut minimizes distractions, allowing you to bypass the full Messages interface and avoid the temptation to scroll through other messages or notifications, making it ideal for emergencies or business communications.

    Creating your shortcut is simple. Start by opening the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. Tap the plus (+) button in the top-right corner, type “Open Conversation” in the Search Actions field, and select it from the results.

    Next, tap “Conversation” to choose the specific Messages conversation you want to open. Finally, tap done to save your shortcut. Once your shortcut is set up, you can add it to your Lock Screen.

    Long press the Lock Screen, select “Customize,” then choose the Lock Screen you want to modify. Remove any existing controls by tapping the minus sign and replace it with the plus sign. Choose “Shortcut” from the Controls menu and select your “Open Conversation” shortcut before tapping “Done” to finalize.

    This feature opens up various possibilities. You can use it to create shortcuts not just on your Lock Screen, but also on your Home Screen or even in your Control Center. Experiment with it to find what works best for your communication habits.

  • 10 Exciting New Features in CarPlay with iOS 26 Update – MacRumors

    iOS 26 introduces a host of new features and updates for CarPlay in vehicles. Those interested in experiencing these changes can do so by using an iPhone running the latest iOS 26 developer beta, currently available for testing. The full version is expected to be released to the public in September.

    One of the standout features is the new Liquid Glass design for CarPlay. This update mirrors the revamped interface found on the iPhone, featuring shimmering app icons and translucent elements, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience while using CarPlay. Updates to the Messages app are also notable.

    Users will now have the ability to respond to messages with standard Tapbacks like hearts or thumbs up directly through CarPlay, making interactions more fluid. Additionally, the introduction of pinned conversations will allow users to quickly access their most important chats. For phone calls, CarPlay now offers a compact view that minimizes distractions.

    This means users can receive incoming calls while still viewing critical on-screen information, such as navigation directions. The Dashboard screen has also been improved with the addition of Live Activities, allowing users to monitor real-time updates, such as flight arrival times, seamlessly. Another exciting enhancement is the widgets screen now available in CarPlay, offering users easy access to calendar appointments and HomeKit controls.

    Previously exclusive to CarPlay Ultra, this feature makes daily management more efficient. Moreover, CarPlay users can utilize multi-touch gestures to interact with mapping apps. This familiar functionality allows for smoother navigation, similar to what is experienced on an iPhone.

    Video streaming via AirPlay while parked is also on the menu, although this feature will only work when vehicles are stationed to promote safety. Finally, iOS 26 introduces a Smart Display Zoom setting, allowing CarPlay’s interface to adjust size based on the dimensions of a vehicle’s dashboard screen. Accessibility enhancements, including support for Larger Text and Sound Recognition for detecting sounds like crying, further ensure that users with diverse needs can navigate CarPlay effectively.

  • iPhone 17e Expected in Early 2026 Featuring A19 Chip as Apple Introduces Annual ‘e’ Model Cycle

    Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 17e in early 2026, according to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. This new model will succeed the iPhone 16e, which was launched in February, marking Apple’s transition to an annual update cycle for its entry-level iPhones. Reports indicate that the iPhone 17e will bear a resemblance to the iPhone 16e, yet will be powered by the new A19 processor, aligning it with the current iPhone 17 lineup, which features the A18 chip. The price for the iPhone 16e starts at $599.

    Additionally, it is expected that the iPhone 17e will utilize the same OLED panel as its predecessor, aiming to reduce costs by using established production lines. Gurman’s insights support earlier claims by industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who also predicted a launch for the second-generation iPhone 17e in the first half of 2026. Additionally, an April rumor suggested that the device may have been approaching trial production; however, this claim indicated a release date for May 2026. Looking ahead, Kuo has mentioned that a third-generation “e” model would likely debut alongside the standard iPhone 18 in early 2027.

    This change would reflect Apple’s strategic shift to releasing standard and “e” models half a year apart, a notable shift from previous release schedules. As Apple shifts towards an annual update strategy, it diverges from earlier practices regarding its “e” series, which lacked a consistent release timeline. This change suggests an intention to streamline and predict the product lineup for consumers, making it easier to anticipate upcoming releases. In addition to the iPhone 17e, various product updates and features are expected across the Apple ecosystem, underscoring the company’s continued innovation in mobile technology.

  • iPhone 17 Pro Launching Soon: Discover 16 Exciting New Features – MacRumors

    The release of Apple’s next-generation iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max is anticipated in just two months, and there are numerous rumors regarding their features and specifications. One of the most notable changes might be a redesigned Dynamic Island interface, which is expected to be smaller across all iPhone 17 models. In addition, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to exceed a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh, signaling a significant upgrade in battery life. Another substantial alteration could be the repositioning of the Apple logo on the back of the devices, potentially affecting the layout of the MagSafe magnets.

    Faster MagSafe charging is also on the horizon for the iPhone 17 Pro models, possibly with a new version of Apple’s MagSafe Charger, which could offer improved performance. Previously rumored features include a shift to an aluminum frame for the Pro models, as opposed to the titanium frame of the iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro models. The design of the back might combine aluminum and glass, with a larger rectangular camera bump that maintains the existing triangular camera lens arrangement. Additionally, it has been suggested that the iPhone 17 Pro will be available in a new Sky Blue color.

    The upcoming models are also expected to feature Apple’s A19 Pro chip, improving performance and power efficiency, as well as an Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip for enhanced connectivity. Other anticipated enhancements include a 24-megapixel front camera, a 48-megapixel rear telephoto camera, and features like dual video recording and 8K video capabilities. With these exciting developments, the iPhone 17 series aims to push the boundaries of smartphone technology.

  • iPhone 17 Pro Reverts iPhone X Design Choices – MacRumors

    The upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models are rumored to mark a significant shift in Apple’s design strategy. Since the introduction of the iPhone X in 2017, Apple’s flagship devices have predominantly utilized stainless steel or titanium frames.

    However, reports suggest that Apple may revert to an aluminum frame for the iPhone 17 Pro later this year. According to a post from the Chinese social media platform Weibo by the account Instant Digital, the iPhone 17 Pro models will feature an aluminum frame complemented by a glass back to maintain support for MagSafe and Qi wireless charging.

    This partial aluminum and glass design builds on earlier speculations about the iPhone 17’s aesthetic. While lower-end iPhone models have consistently used aluminum frames, the Pro series has favored titanium, making a switch back to aluminum a noteworthy change.

    Aluminum is known for being both lighter and more cost-effective than titanium, yet the specific reasons for this potential shift in materials remain unclear. The account that made the prediction, Instant Digital, boasts over 1.4 million followers on Weibo and has previously shared accurate information on Apple product releases.

    Nevertheless, like all sources, it does not guarantee absolute reliability. As Apple prepares to unveil the iPhone 17 series in September, it is expected that the Pro models will feature redesigned rear casings and camera sections.

    However, major updates to the lineup may not emerge until next year’s iPhone 18 models. Rumors suggest enhancements such as increased RAM across several iPhone 17 models and new features for Apple’s devices, from iPhones to Apple TVs.

  • Ads Disrupt Functionality of Read More Button on MacRumors Forums

    An AppleShull macrumors newbie reported an issue on October 8, 2024. The user expressed frustration about advertisements that completely overlay the articles on their screen. This problem prevents the user from clicking the “read more” button, as doing so inadvertently opens a new window with the advertisement instead. The device in question is an iPhone 14 Pro, running the latest version of iOS at the time.

    Interestingly, the issue appears to be most prevalent when the user is not logged in. The specific ads causing the disruption seem to be related to myob, indicating that this particular advertisement might be a key contributor to the problem. This situation has raised concerns among users, as it diminishes the reading experience and makes accessing articles more challenging. As advertisements become more prevalent on websites, ensuring that they do not interfere with user navigation is crucial for maintaining a satisfying experience.

    The original poster included a screenshot attachment to illustrate the issue, demonstrating how the overlay of ads obstructs content. Given the importance of user experience in web design, feedback like this is valuable for improving site functionality. It is hoped that the site moderators will take note of these concerns and implement necessary changes to resolve the problem, benefiting all users who encounter similar issues.

  • The Apple Nanny State: Discussion on Restrictions and Policies

    Recently, there’s been a growing sentiment among users that Apple is becoming overly restrictive with its approach to user protections. While larger issues like sideloading stir much debate, it’s the smaller changes that seem to be causing frustration. Take family sharing as an example.

    Many parents, myself included, appreciate the need to prevent children from making impulsive purchases on the App Store—nobody wants to end up in those headlines about outrageous in-app spending. However, Apple has tightened control over the family library. Kids now require permission to simply redownload apps that parents have previously purchased.

    This added step feels excessive, especially when it disrupts the convenience of sharing. Another issue pertains to the customization options for app icons. Apple introduced the ability to reposition icons freely, but in practice, you’re limited by a strict 2×2 grid.

    This means placing a widget alongside app icons is impossible; it must align in a specific manner. Many users are left wondering why Apple doesn’t trust its users to have more freedom in organization. Furthermore, there’s the perplexity surrounding basic features, such as manual focusing in the camera app.

    It seems inconceivable that Apple thinks users cannot handle such a fundamental tool. In conclusion, these minor restrictions are adding up to a frustrating experience for many. If Apple continues down this path, it risks alienating its user base.

    A more flexible and user-friendly approach would certainly be appreciated. Come on, Apple, let us have a bit more freedom!

  • Can Malware Spread Between Macs on the Same Network?

    I’m unsure where this topic would best fit, so I’d appreciate it if the moderators could move it if necessary. Consider a scenario where a Mac becomes infected with malware.

    While it’s relatively rare, it’s certainly not out of the question. One concern that arises is whether this malware could potentially spread to other Macs connected to the same network or even to nearby devices through Bluetooth, even if those Macs are using separate iCloud accounts.

    In general, malware requires specific vectors to propagate from one device to another. On a local network, certain types of malware might exploit vulnerabilities in network protocols or services that are running on connected devices.

    However, this would typically require the malware to have certain capabilities or access levels that could allow it to discover and exploit other systems. Regarding Bluetooth, while it is technically possible for malware to spread this way, it usually depends on certain conditions being met, such as having a device set to be discoverable and the right exploits to carry out the attack.

    When devices are using separate iCloud accounts, this might limit the extent to which the malware can control or access shared resources but does not completely eliminate the risk of contribution or interaction. In summary, while the spread of malware from one Mac to another on the same network or via Bluetooth is theoretically possible, it would generally depend on specific circumstances.

    Keeping systems updated and exercising caution with downloads can significantly reduce such risks.

  • Strange Keyboard Problem on 2019 MacBook Air

    I own a 2019 MacBook Air where the keyboard has suddenly stopped functioning. It does not respond to input at all. Upon restarting the device, the keyboard may work temporarily but ultimately becomes unresponsive again. What strikes me as odd is that when I connect an external keyboard through a USB-C hub, two out of three keyboards have issues as well.

    Although they can type to an extent, several keys fail to register, while others input completely different characters. Notably, the third keyboard operates without any problems. All external keyboards are third-party, and I have the US keyboard layout installed. Interestingly, the power button works perfectly, which raises questions about whether this is a hardware or software issue.

    If it is hardware-related, I wonder why two of the external keyboards are malfunctioning in a different manner. I’m curious to know if there are any troubleshooting steps I can take aside from opening the case to check if the connector cable is properly connected. I have a hunch that it might be a hardware problem, but the inconsistency with the external keyboards confuses me. While getting it professionally repaired may not be cost-effective, I dislike the thought of discarding a device that could potentially be fixed — it was functioning well just before these issues arose.

    Any suggestions on how to resolve this situation would be greatly appreciated.

  • Can I access a filesystem?

    I rely on IPTV for my Apple TV and have recorded a number of shows. Recently, I encountered an issue where all my settings were wiped, forcing me to reconfigure my connection.

    Unfortunately, this reset resulted in the disappearance of all my recordings. Despite this, I’ve noticed that the available space on my Apple TV still indicates the amount of storage used when my recordings were accessible.

    This observation leads me to believe that the recordings may still exist somewhere within the system. I’m curious whether there’s any method to browse the files on my Apple TV to verify if the recordings are indeed still present.

    Is there a way for me to access these files to check for their existence? Any guidance on how to navigate this situation would be greatly appreciated, as I would love to recover the shows I recorded.

    Thank you.