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Apple has announced new beta firmware for the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, designated as version 8A5279d. Currently, this firmware is exclusively available for developers, requiring a device running iOS 26, iPadOS 26, or macOS 26 to install the update.

This latest firmware introduces a variety of features coinciding with the launch of iOS 26 and its related systems. Notably, both the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 will benefit from enhancements to audio quality during phone and video calls.

In addition to this, the firmware supports studio-quality audio recording, making it ideal for interviews, podcasts, and videos. Another exciting feature is the capability to use the AirPods as a camera remote with the Camera app, enabling users to easily snap photos or start video recordings from a distance.

Furthermore, Apple now provides an option within the AirPods settings interface to facilitate firmware updates when connected to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. As for other developments, rumors are circling around the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models, which are expected to be released in about three months.

Recent reports suggest that these models may feature an aluminum frame, marking a departure from the titanium frame of previous versions. In software updates, the recent beta of iOS 26 has brought changes that aim to improve user experience.

One highlight is the introduction of an opt-in Adaptive Power Mode, designed to make minor performance adjustments to maximize battery life. Apple is also anticipated to release new models for Apple Watch, including the Apple Watch Ultra 3, later this year, aligning with prior product launch timelines.

With these advancements, Apple continues to refine its offerings and enhance the user experience across its devices.

Apple is set to introduce public beta versions of AirPods firmware updates for the first time, allowing users to experience upcoming features before their official release. This initiative will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program at no cost, eliminating the need for a developer account. The announcement reveals that new public betas across various platforms, including iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and now AirPods firmware, will be rolled out soon.

According to Apple, the first public beta for the AirPods firmware is anticipated to be available in July. Previously, a developer beta for the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 was made available, showcasing enhancements such as improved audio quality for calls and studio-quality recording capabilities for various media production tasks. Among the new features is the ability to utilize AirPods as a camera remote for taking photos or recording videos.

Additionally, these AirPods models will have a functionality to pause playback automatically if the user appears to be asleep. In other news, rumors surrounding the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max suggest potential design changes, including a return to an aluminum frame instead of titanium. The introduction of an opt-in Adaptive Power Mode in iOS 26 aims to enhance battery life through minor performance adjustments.

Apple continues its journey towards a consolidated iPhone design by potentially refining features like the Dynamic Island in forthcoming models. Developers have recently received updates for iOS 26, aimed at refining user experience and addressing existing complaints. Lastly, the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to debut later this year, alongside Apple’s anticipated product launches.

As always, improvement and innovation remain at the forefront of Apple’s strategy, keeping users engaged and excited for what’s next.

Apple has recently joined China’s national subsidy program in an effort to enhance its sales amidst escalating competition from local brands and economic challenges. This initiative offers consumers in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai discounts of up to 2,000 yuan (approximately US$278) on selected Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and MacBook.

To benefit from these subsidies, customers in Shanghai must purchase their devices from one of the eight physical Apple Stores in the city. Meanwhile, buyers in Beijing can take advantage of the subsidies when placing orders through Apple’s online retail platform, provided they have a shipping address within the city.

The discounts apply to specific models of the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch priced below 6,000 yuan, offering savings of up to 500 yuan. Additionally, certain Mac models are eligible for discounts as high as 2,000 yuan.

While Apple products sold through local e-commerce platforms such as JD.com and Alibaba’s Taobao have previously qualified for subsidies, this marks the first instance of Apple offering discounts through its own retail channels under the government scheme. The participation in this program highlights Apple’s strategy to stay competitive in a challenging market, particularly as forecasts predict a decline in iPhone shipments in China by 1.9 percent in 2025.

This decline is largely attributed to stiff competition from leading Chinese smartphone manufacturers, including Huawei Technologies, coupled with the broader economic slowdown affecting consumer spending in the country. Ultimately, Apple’s engagement in the subsidy program aims to secure a stronger foothold in the rapidly evolving mobile device landscape in China.

Apple has recently sparked controversy by sending promotional push notifications to iPhone users through the Wallet app. This notification advertised a limited-time discount on movie tickets for Apple’s upcoming film, “F1: The Movie,” available through the ticket vendor Fandango.

The move has not been well received by many users. A considerable number of people across various online platforms, including the MacRumors Forums and social media, have voiced their frustration about these unsolicited advertisements.

One user expressed their discontent, stating that Apple has begun sending ads as notifications, which they find particularly intrusive. Many users rely on the Wallet app for essential financial management, making it difficult to disable notifications without losing access to crucial information.

Critics also highlight that Apple’s approach appears to violate established guidelines regarding push notifications. According to Apple’s App Store policies, such notifications should not serve promotional purposes unless users have explicitly opted in to receive them.

This has raised concerns about user consent and the integrity of app notifications. Despite the backlash, Apple continues to promote “F1: The Movie,” which is set to release in theaters on June 25 in Europe and June 27 in the U.S. and Canada.

However, as users express their disappointment, it seems that the promotional strategy might have crossed a line. There is a slight silver lining, as the recent iOS 26 beta introduces a new “Offers & Promotions” toggle within the Wallet app.

This feature allows users to manage whether they want to receive special offers and discounts from Apple and its partners. Unfortunately, this option does not extend to users on iOS 18, leading many to feel that they did not consent to receive the push notification ads.

The mixed reactions highlight a significant disconnect between Apple’s marketing strategies and user expectations.

Apple has released a second trailer for its highly anticipated racing film, titled “F1,” featuring Brad Pitt. This film will be presented in theaters by Warner Bros. Pictures and marks a significant addition to Apple’s cinematic offerings. In “F1,” Pitt portrays an F1 driver who once had great promise in the 1990s, but his career was nearly derailed by a serious track incident.

Now, after thirty years away from the sport, he is given a chance to revive not only his professional life but also a struggling F1 team led by a former teammate. The movie is directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for his work in action films like “Tron: Legacy” and “Top Gun: Maverick.” The film is set to be released in theaters on Friday, June 27, positioning it as a potential summer blockbuster.

Following its theatrical run, “F1” will be available for streaming on Apple TV+. Currently, Apple TV+ subscriptions are priced at $9.99 per month or $99 annually, accessible through the Apple TV app on various devices. In tech-related news, Apple has recently enhanced its Sports app to include F1 racing coverage, showcasing the company’s growing interest in motorsport.

Shifting focus to other Apple product developments, rumors surrounding the upcoming iPhone 17 series have surfaced, suggesting new features and a potential shift in design. Analysts expect significant updates this year, with new releases likely timed alongside the launch of the iPhone 17 models. Additionally, updates for iOS 26 and watchOS 26 have been spotted in beta versions, hinting at upcoming enhancements including user interface tweaks and new features aimed at improving device functionality and user experience.

As Apple continues to innovate, enthusiasts can look forward to a range of exciting developments in both film and technology.

Apple has partnered with Fandango to offer a special discount for Apple Pay users purchasing tickets for the upcoming Apple TV+ movie F1. Moviegoers can take advantage of a $10 discount when they buy two or more tickets through Fandango using Apple Pay. To redeem this offer, users need to enter the promo code APPLEPAYTEN during checkout.

However, the discounted tickets are only available until June 29, and quantities are limited, making it a first-come, first-served offer. F1, set to be released on June 27, is based on the Formula One World Championship and features Brad Pitt in the lead role as Sonny Hayes, a once-famed driver who returns to the racing scene as a mentor after a life-altering crash. The film includes appearances from notable 2023 Formula One teams and drivers, including Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, enhancing its authenticity.

Promotion for F1 has been particularly significant, with Apple and distribution partner Warner Bros. Pictures pushing it more than any other Apple TV+ film. The marketing campaign includes ads on platforms like YouTube and social media, including appearances by CEO Tim Cook and Brad Pitt at Apple’s flagship store in New York. Additional promotional efforts have involved unique events and products related to the movie, from special screening events to limited-edition merchandise like a luxury car and themed drinkware.

In an innovative twist, Apple used the iPhone to help film F1, creating a custom camera module that could withstand the extreme conditions of Formula 1 racing. Given that F1 is a sponsor-heavy sport, the film will also showcase various brand placements, featuring notable companies such as KFC and Heineken. This combination of promotional strategies reflects Apple’s significant investment in making F1 a standout release.

Apple has recently introduced a new app called “Invites,” aimed at helping users organize events such as birthday parties, graduations, vacations, and baby showers. This innovative tool is intended to make event planning seamless and enjoyable for users. Brent Chiu-Watson, Apple’s senior director of Worldwide Product Marketing for Apps and iCloud, expressed that “With Apple Invites, an event comes to life from the moment the invitation is created, and users can share lasting memories even after they get together.”

The app integrates features familiar to Apple users, leveraging the capabilities of iPhone, iCloud, and Apple Music for easy event organization. Invites allows users to create custom invitations that can be sent to guests. Users can choose backgrounds from their Photos app, select preloaded images, or even use emoji designs.

Additionally, font customization options are available. The app enhances the planning experience by incorporating information from the Maps and Weather apps, providing invitees with important details like directions and weather forecasts. The app also harnesses Apple Intelligence, offering features such as Image Playground for generating original images based on text descriptions and Writing Tools to assist with crafting invitations.

Recipients of invites can RSVP, and senders can track responses easily. Once the event unfolds, users have the option to create a collaborative soundtrack where attendees can share their favorite music. A shared album is also available, allowing guests to view and contribute photos and videos from the event.

Apple Invites is an iCloud+ service, meaning that the creation of invites is exclusive to iCloud+ subscribers, while anyone can respond. It is compatible with all iPhone models running iOS 18 or later and can be downloaded for free from the App Store. iCloud+ subscriptions start at $0.99 per month, offering additional storage beyond the standard 5GB.