Chinese smartphone maker Vivo on Thursday unveiled its first mixed reality headset, the "Vivo Vision," and the photocopiers in Dongguan appear to have been working overtime.


The device "launched" as an in-store experience across mainland China today, featuring design elements that clearly ape Apple's Vision Pro. It's got a curved glass front visor, downward-pointing cameras, removable fabric light seals in four sizes, eight foam padding options, a knitted rear strap, and an aluminum external battery pack connected via a braided cable. The Vivo Vision "Explorer Edition" even offers support for 1.5-degree eye tracking and 26 degrees depth of field for gesture-based navigation.

To its credit, Vivo's clone has some competitive specifications. The dual 8K micro-LED displays provide 3,840 × 3,552 pixels per eye – slightly higher than the Vision Pro's resolution – and offers 180-degree panoramic field of view. At 398 grams, it's significantly lighter than Apple's 650-gram device. Vivo also claims its headset is 26 percent smaller than the "industry average."

As for software, the headset runs on OriginOS Vision, Vivo's in-house mixed reality operating system, which is said to offer ultra-low latency of just 13ms. As you'd expect, it supports recording 3D videos, spatial photos, and spatial audio. Users can also immerse themselves in a 120-inch cinema screen.

Pricing is expected at around 10,000 yuan (roughly $1,395), which is well below Apple's Vision Pro $3,499 starting price. Pre-orders are now open for the device, although Vivo has yet to confirm availability details, giving Apple plenty of time to consider its legal options. Joking aside, this isn't the first Chinese Apple knock-off that we've seen by a long stretch, plus there's no indication that Vivo's headset is coming to international markets beyond China. The Vision Pro has sold poorly anyway, so the impact on Apple's bottom line is likely to be minimal.


Apple is currently working on a next-generation version of the Vision Pro with an M5 chip, based on code discovered by MacRumors. The refreshed Vision Pro isn't expected to feature any design changes or hardware updates aside from the new chip, but it could get a new strap that will make it more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. The Vision Pro 2 with M5 chip could launch as soon as late 2025.
This article, "Vivo's $1,400 Apple Vision Pro Clone Launches Across China" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Medical technology company Masimo on Wednesday filed a lawsuit against U.S. Customs and Border Protection in which it challenged the agency's decision to allow Apple to restore blood oxygen monitoring to its Apple Watch models (via Bloomberg Law).


In a complaint filed Wednesday in the US District Court for the District of Columbia, Masimo said that Customs acted unlawfully when it ruled on August 1 that Apple can import watches with pulse oximetry technology – a reversal of the agency's decision from last year – without notifying Masimo. Masimo said it only discovered the ruling on August 14, when Apple publicly announced it would be reintroducing the pulse oximetry functionality through a software update.

The medical device maker claims Customs and Border Protection exceeded its authority when it issued the ruling permitting Apple's redesigned approach. Apple's workaround offloads blood oxygen calculations from the Apple Watch to a paired iPhone, where it performs similar functionality to what the ITC originally judged to have infringed Masimo's patents.

Masimo is seeking a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to block the Customs decision. "CBP's function is to enforce ITC exclusion orders, not to create loopholes that render them ineffective," Masimo said.

The dispute originates from an International Trade Commission ruling in December 2023 that found Apple's blood oxygen sensors infringed Masimo's patents, leading to an import ban on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models that have the feature enabled.

Apple paused sales in the U.S. for several days before resuming them on January 18, 2024. The Series 9 and Ultra 2 models then went back on the market without blood oxygen monitoring, up until Apple's release of iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 last week, which shifted the feature's calculations to paired iPhones.
This article, "Apple Blood Oxygen Feature Workaround Sparks Fresh Masimo Lawsuit" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple today released a new update for Safari Technology Preview, the experimental browser that was first introduced in March 2016. Apple designed ‌Safari Technology Preview‌ to allow users to test features that are planned for future release versions of the Safari browser.


‌Safari Technology Preview‌ 226 includes fixes and updates for CSS, Canvas, JavaScript, Media, Rendering, Deprecations, SVG, Storage, Web API, Web Extensions, and Web Inspector.

The current ‌Safari Technology Preview‌ release is compatible with machines running macOS Sequoia and macOS Tahoe, the newest version of macOS that's set to launch this later this year.

The ‌Safari Technology Preview‌ update is available through the Software Update mechanism in System Preferences or System Settings to anyone who has downloaded the browser from Apple’s website. Complete release notes for the update are available on the Safari Technology Preview website.

Apple’s aim with ‌Safari Technology Preview‌ is to gather feedback from developers and users on its browser development process. ‌Safari Technology Preview‌ can run side-by-side with the existing Safari browser and while it is designed for developers, it does not require a developer account to download and use.
This article, "Apple Releases Safari Technology Preview 226 With Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Google introduced its next-generation Pixel 10 smartphones today, and while there are multiple hardware improvements, Google focused heavily on new AI features. The Pixel 10 devices offer quite a few new AI-powered capabilities, in addition to prior AI features that have come out over the last couple of years.


We've rounded up the new features, some of which the iPhone already supports, and some of which the ‌iPhone‌ can't do yet.

• Magic Cue - Magic Cue proactively surfaces relevant info and suggests actions, similar to how Apple's personalized Siri features were supposed to work. It can display flight information when you call an airline, or cue up a photo if a friend asks for an image.


• Daily Hub - Daily Hub uses Magic Cue to surface a personalized daily digest of upcoming calendar events, topics to explore, recommended playlists, and more.


• Call Transcripts - The Take a Message feature in the Phone app provides real-time transcripts for missed or declined calls. Apple already provides real-time transcripts for incoming voicemails.


• Pixel Journal - Pixel Journal provides AI writing prompts to help users process their thoughts, and it provides insights into patterns and progress over time. Apple has a similar Journal app that offers journaling suggestions.


• Voice Translate - Voice Translate translates calls in real-time in what sounds like each speaker's voice. It's similar to Apple's Live Translation features, but that doesn't mimic user voices. Voice Translate also supports more languages when translating to or from English, including Spanish, German, French, Japanese, Hindi, Italian, Portuguese, Swedish, Russian, and Indonesian.


• Camera Coach - Camera Coach can provide real-time guidance to help users capture better images. It suggests tips on lighting, composition, and more.


• Auto Best Take - Analyzes up to 150 frames in seconds to get the perfect group shot where everyone is looking at the camera.


• Add Me - The image feature that can add the photographer to a group shot using AI has been improved. It works with bigger groups and offers more creative composition options.


• AI Videos - The Pixel devices can generate a video based on short text descriptions.


• Visual Guidance for Gemini Live - Gemini Live allows for real-time conversations with Gemini AI. It's already able to converse and get context from the camera or screen sharing, but it now highlights things on the display to provide better visual guidance when responding to questions.


• More natural speech - Gemini Live is getting more human-like speech, with improvements to intonation, rhythm, and pitch for more expressive conversations. It will be able to speaker slower or faster when asked, and it can do accents.


• Gboard - The Google keyboard supports Writing Tools for spellchecking, plus it can rewrite in specific styles. Apple has a similar Writing Tools feature that supports grammar and spelling correction and rewrites in a specified style.


• Google Photos - Google Photos is getting conversation-based photo editing.


• NotebookLM - Google's AI research assistant integrates with Pixel Screenshots and Recorder. If Screenshots detects a picture that's useful for a notebook, it will suggest adding it for simpler tracking. Transcripts from Recorder can also be added.


• Gemini Nano - The Tensor G5 chip in the Pixel 10 smartphones runs the newest Gemini Nano model on-device.

Apple will be able to match some of these features when the updated version of ‌Siri‌ rolls out in 2026, but it is behind on image editing features and live AI capabilities since there is no dedicated Apple-designed LLM as of now.

Google's updated Pixel 10 devices are available for pre-order now, and will be launching later this month. Apple's iPhone 17 models will debut in September.
This article, "All the New AI Features Coming to Google's Pixel 10 Smartphones" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Nanoleaf this week announced the launch of the 4D V2, a product that's designed to provide ambient lighting that matches the colors on your TV set. The second version of the Screen Mirror and Lightstrip Kit offers more accurate screen mirroring for a more engaging viewing experience.


The Nanoleaf 4D V2 has a redesigned zigzag lightstrip that makes it easier to install on a TV set that's up to 65 inches. The lightstrip is able to wrap around the entire display, and there is no need for corner brackets due to the design. The lightstrip can be trimmed to fit any size screen.

The lightstrip pairs with a camera that analyzes the colors on the screen so the lightstrip can change colors to match instantly. Nanoleaf says that the 4D V2 offers improved color accuracy for vivid colors and bright whites that bring the screen to life with a glow. For music, there's a Rhythm feature that turns the 4D into a sound-reactive audio-visual experience where lights pulse to the beat of the music.

The 4D V2 kit is able to pair up with other Nanoleaf lamps for a unified lighting experience that mirrors what's on the TV, plus the product offers different levels of color variance. Nanoleaf's new product can be controlled with the Nanoleaf app, but it also integrates into HomeKit.

Nanoleaf's 4D V2 can be ordered from the Nanoleaf website for $100.
This article, "Nanoleaf's New 4D V2 Brings Zigzag Design and Better Colors to TV Backlighting" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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With the launch of the Pixel 10 smartphones, Google announced new AI functionality that's coming to its Google Photos app and service.


Users will be able to describe the edits that they want to make with text or voice in the Google ‌Photos‌ editing interface, and the changes will appear. Google says there will be no need to select tools or adjust sliders, with complex edits enabled through conversational AI.

Requests can be generic or specific, with Google suggesting the AI can understand even the most basic requests. Some of Google's examples:

• Restore this old photo


• Remove the cars in the background


• Remove the reflections and fix the washed out colors


• Make it better


• Remove the glare, brighten the photo, and add clouds to the sky


• Add fun items like a party hat or sunglasses


• Change the background

The AI supports multiple requests in a single prompt, along with follow-up requests.

The new Google ‌Photos‌ functionality will be available on the Pixel 10 to start with, but it will presumably expand to other devices in the future.

Google is also adding C2PA Content Credentials to Google ‌Photos‌, which will more clearly show how an image was captured or edited. C2PA Content Credentials will roll out to Google ‌Photos‌ on Android and iOS devices over the coming weeks.
This article, "Google Photos Gets Conversational Editing" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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In select U.S. states, residents can add their driver's license or state ID to the Wallet app on the iPhone and Apple Watch, providing a convenient and contactless way to display proof of identity or age at select airports and businesses, and in select apps.


This week, Apple announced the 10th U.S. state that has implemented the feature: Montana.

Below, we have recapped key details about the feature.

Supported States

The following states offer driver's licenses in the Wallet app:

• Arizona (since March 2022)


• Maryland (since May 2022)


• Colorado (since November 2022)


• Georgia (since May 2023)


• Ohio (since July 2024)


• Hawaii (since August 2024)


• California (since September 2024)


• Iowa (since October 2024)


• New Mexico (since December 2024)
• Montana (since August 2025)

The feature is also available in Puerto Rico.

Future States

Apple and state governments have previously announced that the following U.S. states have signed on to adopt the feature in the future:

• West Virginia


• Connecticut


• Kentucky


• Mississippi


• Oklahoma


• Utah


• Illinois

Participating Airports

Apple Wallet app IDs can be used at select TSA checkpoints within select U.S. airports:

• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)


• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)


• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)


• Denver International Airport (DEN)


• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)


• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG)


• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)


• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)


• San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC)


• Los Angeles International (LAX)


• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)


• Des Moines International Airport (DSM)


• Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)


• Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)


• Lea County Regional Airport (HOB)


• Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU)


• Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)


• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)


• Great Falls International Airport (GTF)


• Missoula International Airport (MSO)

Apple says travelers should refer to TSA checkpoint signage to confirm availability of the feature.

Apple Wallet IDs can also be used to show proof of age or identity at select businesses and venues in the U.S., but there is no list of locations.

Digital ID

In addition to driver's licenses and state IDs, iOS 26 is introducing a new Digital ID, which can be created based on a U.S. passport. Apple says iPhone users can present this Digital ID in person at select TSA checkpoints for identity verification purposes during domestic travel within the U.S., but it is not a replacement for a physical passport, and it cannot be used for international travel and border crossing in lieu of a U.S. passport.
This article, "iPhone Driver's Licenses in Apple Wallet Now Available in 10 U.S. States" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple today released new iOS 18.6.2, iPadOS 18.6.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.6.1 updates, and the software addresses a security vulnerability that is known to have been actively exploited.


According to Apple's security support documents, memory corruption could result from devices that were sent a malicious image file.

Apple says that it is aware of a report that the issue "may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals." This wording suggests that the average iPhone, iPad, and Mac user doesn't need to worry about being targeted with this attack, but it is still a good idea to update right away.

Apple addressed the issue with improved bounds checking, and the CVE credits Apple, indicating that Apple's internal teams found the bug and fixed it.

Along with iOS 18.6.2, iPadOS 18.6.2, and ‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.6.1 updates, Apple has also released security fixes with iPadOS 17.7.10, macOS 14.7.8, and macOS 13.7.8.
This article, "Update Now: iOS 18.6.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.6.1 Fix Actively Exploited Vulnerability" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple today released macOS Sequoia 15.6.1, a minor update to the ‌macOS Sequoia‌ operating system that launched last September. ‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.6.1 comes a few weeks after the launch of macOS Sequoia 15.6.


Mac users can download the ‌‌‌‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.6.1 update through the Software Update section of System Settings. It is available for free on all Macs able to run macOS 15. Apple has also released macOS 13.7.8 and macOS 14.7.8 for older Macs.

‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.6.1 doesn't include new outward-facing features. According to Apple's release notes, the update provides important security updates.

More information on the features in ‌macOS Sequoia‌ can be found in our macOS Sequoia roundup. Apple will soon replace ‌macOS Sequoia‌ with macOS Tahoe, an update that is being beta tested ahead of a fall launch.
This article, "Apple Releases macOS Sequoia 15.6.1 With Security Updates" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple today released iOS 18.6.2 and iPadOS 18.6.2, more minor updates for the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 operating systems. iOS 18.6.2 comes less than a week after the launch of iOS 18.6.1, an update that re-added blood oxygen monitoring support to the latest Apple Watch models.


iOS 18.6.2 and iPadOS 18.6.2 can be downloaded on eligible devices over-the-air by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Apple has also released iPadOS 17.7.10 for iPads that aren't able to run ‌iPadOS 18‌.

According to Apple's release notes, iOS 18.6.2 and iPadOS 18.6.2 provides important security fixes and the updates are recommended for all users.

We are less than a month away from the launch of iOS 26, the next-generation version of iOS that will replace ‌iOS 18‌, so this will likely be one of the last updates to ‌iOS 18‌ beyond security fixes.

This article, "Apple Releases iOS 18.6.2 With Security Fixes" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Along with new Pixel 10 smartphones, Google is debuting updated Pixel Buds 2a and a new Pixel Watch 4 with some unique features.


Google says that the Pixel Watch 4 is the biggest update to the Pixel Watch so far. The device has been redesigned with a domed 360 display, and Google beat Apple to a smartwatch with satellite connectivity.

The domed display is physically curved, a change that Google says provides a 10 percent larger active display area and 16 percent smaller bezels, plus 50 percent improved performance in sunlight. There's a stronger haptic engine for better physical feedback, and the battery is able to last for up to 30 hours on the 41mm watch and up to 40 hours on the 45mm watch. Google is using a Snapdragon W5 chip inside and an ML-powered co-processor.


Google says that the display and the battery can be replaced, significantly improving repairability. There's a custom Gorilla Glass display cover, and the watch itself is made from aluminum.

The LTE version of the Pixel Watch 4 offers emergency satellite support so users can get help even when there's no Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity available. Rumors suggest that Apple is planning to add this same functionality to the Apple Watch Ultra 3 that's coming in September.

Sleep tracking is more accurate, there's a better skin temperature sensor, and dual-frequency GPS allows for more accurate route tracking. Google even mimicked Apple's Workout Buddy, introducing a personal AI health coach that's powered by Gemini. It offers proactive fitness and sleep coaching, along with on-demand guidance. Pricing for the Pixel Watch 4 starts at $349.


At $129, Pixel Buds 2a are priced lower than Apple's ANC AirPods but they still offer premium features. These are the first earbuds in Google's A-series to feature Active Noise Cancellation, and Google says that sound quality has been improved with a custom-designed speaker driver and high-frequency chamber. Battery life has been extended, and Gemini AI is available when the earbuds are paired with a Pixel smartphone.


The Pixel Buds 2a are designed to be lighter and more comfortable than prior-generation models, with an in-ear fit and no protruding stem. Google added a twist-to-adjust stabilization feature for a tighter fit, and there's IP54 water and sweat resistance.

Google is also adding new features to its $229 Pixel Buds Pro 2, which launched last year. The earbuds are getting functionality that's directly copied from the AirPods, including Adaptive Audio and Loud Noise Protection. Adaptive Audio adjusts sound level to the wearer's surroundings to let key noises come through, while Loud Noise Protection protects hearing when there's a sudden loud sound.

The Pixel Buds 2a and the Pixel Watch 4 can be pre-ordered from Google's website.
This article, "Google Beats Apple to Satellite Connectivity With Pixel Watch 4" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Google today announced the launch of its next-generation Pixel 10 smartphones, including the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the Pixel 10 Pro XL, the Pixel 10 Pro, and the Pixel 10.


All of the new smartphones are equipped with the latest Tensor G5 Chip. Google's Tensor chips are the equivalent of Apple's A-series chips, and are designed in-house by Google. The G5 is built using 3-nanometer technology, and Google claims that it "unlocks the most advanced on-device AI on any phone." Gemini Nano runs 2.6x faster and it is 2x more efficient than the prior chip, plus CPU performance is up 34 percent.


Google's most expensive flagship device is the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, priced starting at $1,799. It's made from aluminum, has an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, and it uses a "gearless hinge" that's more durable than the hinge used in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Google says the display is more durable, built from two thin layers of glass and two layers of anti-impact film for drop protection.

The display is larger this year, measuring in at 8 inches when unfolded, and 6.4 inches when closed, with slimmed down bezels. The displays offer up to 3000 nits brightness for use in sunny conditions. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold's battery lasts for up to 30 hours, and it has a triple-lens rear camera system with a new 48-megapixel main lens, Super Res Zoom up to 20x, and macro focus.

Apple has no foldable iPhone to compare the Pixel 10 Pro Fold to right now, but Google's latest device will compete with Samsung's ultra thin Galaxy Z Fold7. Apple's first foldable smartphone is coming in 2026, and rumors suggest it will offer similar capabilities like a super durable hinge and a nearly crease-free display.

The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL are Google's standard devices that will compete with Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 series. The smartphones feature a newly refined camera bar at the back, a glass and metal build, and support for Google's new Material 3 Expressive design. Material 3 Expressive is almost a polar opposite of Apple's Liquid Glass, featuring a flat look with a modern aesthetic.


The Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro feature 6.3-inch displays, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL has a larger 6.8-inch display. The Pixel 10 has a three camera setup for the first time with a 5x telephoto lens that supports up to 10x optical zoom, while the Pro devices feature support for Pro Res Zoom at up to 100x with generative AI to recover and refine intricate details. Both the Pro models have 16GB RAM and faster wireless charging, with the Pixel 10 Pro supporting up to 25W wireless charging with Qi2.2 support. That matches the iPhone 16 line's 25W MagSafe charging functionality.


Google is unsurprisingly emphasizing AI, and Gemini Nano will power on-device generative AI features. Magic Cue is a new option that will "proactively offer the right information at the right time," and it sounds similar to the AI-powered Siri suggestions that Apple wanted to roll out in iOS 18. Camera Coach is a new feature that uses Gemini models to suggest ways to improve photos, like selecting different framing or composition, and Apple has no equivalent.

Google has a new line of Qi2 Pixelsnap accessories, that are similar to ‌MagSafe‌ accessories. There are chargers, stands, ring stands, cases, and more.


All of Google's new smartphones can be pre-ordered today. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is priced starting at $1,799, while the Pixel 10 is priced starting at $799. The Pixel 10 Pro starts at $999, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL starts at $1,199. The new devices will launch on August 28.
This article, "iPhone 17's Competition: Google Launches New Pixel 10 Smartphones" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Support for Apple Pay's Express Mode has this week been added to the Bee Network in Greater Manchester, enabling passengers to pay for bus and tram travel without unlocking their iPhone or Apple Watch.


The new functionality marks the first time a UK integrated public transport system outside London has implemented Express Mode. According to Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), the launch builds on the network's rollout of contactless "tap and go" earlier this year, which has already led to more than one million contactless journeys per week.

‌Apple Pay‌'s Express Mode was first introduced in London in 2019, allowing ‌iPhone‌ and Apple Watch owners to pass through Transport for London turnstiles with a single tap. The feature is designed primarily for public transit systems, enabling rapid contactless transactions that bypass the biometric or passcode requirement that normally accompanies ‌Apple Pay‌. The feature also supports ‌iPhone‌'s Power Reserve mode, meaning transactions can still be made for several hours even if the device battery is critically low.

Users can select a debit or credit card in the Apple Wallet app as their default transit card under "Express Travel Settings." Once enabled, payment requires only holding the device near a card reader. For most users, the default payment card already selected in Apple Wallet will automatically be assigned to Express Mode, though this can be changed at any time in Settings.

Express Mode is already supported in cities around the world, including London, New York, Beijing, Tokyo, and Sydney.
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Apple is planning to launch a new "TechWoven" line of cases for the iPhone 17 series, according to a leaker known as "Majin Bu."


Two years ago, Apple stopped selling leather iPhone cases, as part of the company's efforts to reduce its carbon emissions. As an alternative, Apple introduced a new "FineWoven" line of fabric iPhone cases made from 68% post-consumer recycled content, but they were prone to scratches and stains and ultimately discontinued. Now, it looks like Apple has gone back to the drawing board and come up with a new-and-improved solution.

TechWoven cases would be the spiritual successor to those much-maligned FineWoven cases, and it would be safe to assume that Apple took a lot of feedback into consideration. While still using fabric, the cases are said to offer "enhanced durability."

If the TechWoven branding is legitimate, perhaps the name is based on "technical textile."

In addition to a more durable design, the leaker reiterated that it will be possible to attach a lanyard to the cases, which appear to have tiny holes in the bottom-left and bottom-right corners for this purpose. While the boxes for the cases shown in the photos are said to be replicas, they are apparently representative of what Apple is actually planning.

If the replica box does prove to be representative, then it reveals that the cases will be compatible with a new "Crossbody Strap" option, which is presumably a large lanyard that can be worn around the neck. Wearing your iPhone has become a fashion trend in recent years, and a strap would also make it harder for a pickpocket to steal your iPhone.


The box also reveals that the cases are compatible with MagSafe and the Camera Control — no surprises there, but confirmation that those features continue to exist.

Color options will apparently include Black, Brown, Blue, Green, and Purple, although one box reveals that the colors will have more specific names like Sienna as usual.

While we cannot confirm if these cases are the real deal, the replica boxes would certainly pass as impressive fakes, even in the world of generative AI images. Nevertheless, some skepticism is always warranted with this type of rumor. Fortunately, Apple is expected to hold its iPhone 17 event in less than a month from now.
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Apple today shared the first trailer for the fourth season of Apple TV+ original "The Morning Show."


Season four begins set in spring 2024, nearly two years after season three's merger between UBA and NBN, now operating as UBN. The story confronts issues of truth and trust in an era of deepfakes, conspiracy theories, and cover-ups. Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston return, both starring and executive producing. Showrunner Charlotte Stoudt and director Mimi Leder remain at the helm.

The ensemble includes Billy Crudup, Mark Duplass, Nestor Carbonell, Karen Pittman, Greta Lee, Nicole Beharie, and Jon Hamm. New cast members are Aaron Pierre, William Jackson Harper, Boyd Holbrook, Marion Cotillard, and Jeremy Irons.

Season four's trailer highlights Bradley's pursuit of a cover-up story, Alex's clashes with podcaster Brodie, corporate tension within UBN, and an FBI raid. Subplots involve Cotillard's Celine Dumont, Greta Lee's Stella, and Pierre's Miles in tangled professional and personal dynamics.

Apple emphasized the series' awards pedigree: season three earned 16 Emmy nominations and a second win for Crudup. Across earlier seasons, Aniston won a SAG Award, Crudup secured Emmys and Critics Choice honors, and Leder received Emmy nominations for directing.

Seasons one through three are available now on ‌Apple TV‌+. ‌Apple TV‌+ costs $9.99/month with a 7-day free trial, or three months free with new Apple device activation.

The Morning Show season four premieres on September 17, 2025, with new episodes streaming weekly through November 19.
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Apple today shared a touching video that highlights how the iPhone's Action mode allows for people with Parkinson's disease to record stable videos.


Parkinson's disease can cause hand tremors, which could ordinarily result in a hand-held video recording appearing shaky, but the Camera app's Action mode automatically stabilizes video recordings so that footage appears smooth.

"The simple act of filming can be challenging for people with Parkinson's," says Apple.

"For Brett, Bette, and Ellen, every moment matters," adds Apple. "With Action mode on iPhone, they can capture smooth hand-held videos and reclaim the joy of filming their favorite moments — supported by accessibility features like Voice Control, which help them operate the camera and navigate their iPhone with ease."



"For someone like me, who's been using cameras for 30 years, it being an option again is kind of life-changing," said Brett.

Action mode is available on all iPhone 14 through iPhone 16 models, except for the iPhone 16e.
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Satechi and MacRumors have partnered up this week to offer our readers an exclusive 25 percent sitewide discount for a limited time. This sale is available only on Satechi's website and has no exclusions, and it will run through this Monday, August 25.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

To get the discount, add anything on Satechi's website to your cart and head to checkout. Once at checkout, you can enter the code MR25 to get 25 percent off your order for this week only. This discount code takes 25 percent off whatever is in your cart, so you can purchase multiple accessories at once.




Below we've rounded up some of Satechi's best wireless chargers and other accessories, including a few that are compatible with MagSafe. Some highlights of the sale are the Aluminum 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand and OntheGo 3-in-1 Charger. Of course, the MR25 code works sitewide at Satechi through next week, so be sure to browse throughout the company's products to take advantage of the sale.

• Qi2 Wireless Car Charger - $45.00, down from $59.99


• 2-in-1 Headphone Stand with Wireless Charger - $42.00, down from $79.99


• Slim X2 Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard - $60.00, down from $79.99


• OntheGo 3-in-1 Charger - $75.00, down from $99.99


• 3-in-1 Foldable Qi2 Wireless Charging Stand - $97.50, down from $129.99


• Qi2 Trio Wireless Charging Pad - $97.50, down from $129.99

If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.

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We're only weeks away from Apple's annual iPhone event – rumored to take place on September 9 – and along with the new iPhone 17 series, we're going to get a new version of the Apple Watch Ultra for the first time since 2023.


By the time the Ultra 3 is unveiled, it will have been two years since the previous model arrived. The intervening period has left plenty of room for enhancements, especially for users coming from a first-generation Apple Watch Ultra. Here are all of the major new features we're likely to see in the Apple Watch Ultra 3.

Larger Display

Evidence from a recent iOS 26 beta points to a slightly larger display for the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3. MacRumors uncovered an image with a resolution of 422 x 514 pixels – higher than the current Ultra 2's 410 x 502 panel.


No increase in case size has been rumored, but the larger resolution suggests Apple could be trimming bezel width to expand the viewing area without altering the watch’s overall dimensions. If accurate, this would give the Ultra 3 the biggest Apple Watch display yet, enhancing readability and making better use of the rugged design's expansive front surface.

Newer Processor

Given it's been two years since an update, it's highly likely the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will debut with a new chip.


The current model uses the S9, while the 2024 Apple Watch Series 10 introduced the S10. Although the S10 doesn't improve performance over the S9, its smaller design creates more internal space for other components. In the Ultra, that could allow for a larger battery, additional sensors, or new connectivity hardware.

On the other hand, leaked internal information suggests Apple could introduce an S11 chip this year, and while the underlying technology is the same as the S9 and S10 chips, Apple could make other tweaks. With the S10, for example, Apple redesigned the chip with a thinner profile so it would take up less space inside the watch. Major performance gains may not arrive until the S12 chip next year, however.

Faster Refresh Rate

By skipping a hardware refresh for the Apple Watch Ultra in 2024, Apple inadvertently allowed the Apple Watch Series 10 to leap ahead in display technology. This imbalance is unlikely to last long, with the next Ultra almost certain to catch up.


The Series 10 debuted with an LTPO3 OLED always-on Retina display, a step up from the Ultra's LTPO2 panel. The upgrade gives the Series 10 a faster refresh rate in always-on mode, making it possible for watch faces to feature a continuously ticking seconds hand.

Wide-Angle OLED

Apple also introduced a wide-angle OLED on the Series 10, which delivers up to 40% more brightness when viewed off-axis compared to the Ultra's OLED display. Taken together with the LPTO3 panel, these advancements make it seem all but inevitable that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will inherit the same improvements.

Satellite Connectivity

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to become the first Apple Watch with satellite connectivity, extending its reach far beyond cellular towers and Wi-Fi. Like the iPhone 14 and later, it will tap into satellite networks for off-grid texting, giving wearers a lifeline in remote areas.


Earlier this year, Bloomberg reported that Apple was working to bring the feature to the Ultra line. On iPhone, satellite support originally handled only emergency SOS messages, but iOS 18 expanded it to allow standard text conversations. If Apple follows the same model, Ultra 3 owners could message anyone, even when entirely off the grid.

On iPhone, two years of service come free, and it's likely the same arrangement will apply to the Ultra 3 when it launches.

Faster Charging

With the Series 10, Apple debuted a redesigned rear casing made of metal, complete with a larger charging coil and an integrated antenna. The change replaced the ceramic and sapphire crystal back seen on earlier models.


The Ultra still uses that older rear design, but the advantages of the Series 10's update make it probable that the Ultra 3 will adopt the same metal back. Beyond structural changes, the redesign improves cellular performance and significantly boosts charging speeds.

In practice, the difference is stark: the Series 10 can reach 80% charge in just 30 minutes, shaving 15 minutes off the Series 9's time. By contrast, the Ultra 2 – with its older back and larger battery – needs a full hour to hit the same mark. A switch to the new casing would close that gap, giving the Ultra 3 much faster top-up times alongside stronger connectivity.

5G Cellular

Reports from Bloomberg and The Information indicate that Apple intends to drop Qualcomm modems from the Apple Watch Ultra with the third-generation model. Instead of relying on Qualcomm hardware or on its own custom modem, Apple is expected to turn to MediaTek, one of the few companies developing 5G solutions for wearables.


The shift would mark a major connectivity upgrade. Current cellular Apple Watch models still depend on 4G LTE, despite the iPhone adopting 5G back in 2020. MediaTek's chip is designed for 5G RedCap, a streamlined version of 5G tailored for connected devices that don't require the full speed and bandwidth of standard 5G networks.

Blood Pressure Monitoring

Apple has been developing blood pressure monitoring for several years, and reports last year suggested it could debut as the flagship health upgrade for the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Whether it's ready in time remains uncertain, since accuracy and reliability are still major hurdles.


If the feature does arrive, it won't deliver exact systolic and diastolic readings like a medical-grade cuff. Instead, the watch would track upward trends and alert the wearer if hypertension is detected over time. Users could then share that alert with a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it frequently goes unnoticed until it causes serious damage. By flagging early warning signs, the Apple Watch could play a preventative role similar to its existing heart health features, such as atrial fibrillation detection, single-lead ECG, and recently re-enabled blood oxygen monitoring.
This article, "Apple Watch Ultra 3 Just Weeks Away: Eight Reasons to Upgrade" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple is apparently set to exit its partnership with Major League Baseball and discontinue its "Friday Night Baseball" package on Apple TV+.


Apple first entered Major League Baseball in March 2022 with a seven-year agreement valued at roughly $85 million per year, which granted it exclusive global streaming rights to two Friday night games each week on ‌Apple TV‌+. The deal was originally scheduled to run through 2029, but Yahoo Sports' Kendall Baker now says that Apple has exercised an early opt-out provision, allowing the company to end its involvement before the contract's planned expiration.

Apple's exit from baseball arrives less than three full seasons into its seven-year arrangement, marking a rare early termination of a major streaming sports contract. Baker described the new arrangement as "close to being done."

The shift would see Apple leave Major League Baseball coverage entirely. Baker reported that NBCUniversal, through its Peacock streaming service, is expected to assume the Friday night slot as well as gain rights to Sunday exclusive games and the Wild Card round. Disney's ESPN is said to be in advanced negotiations to acquire the MLB.TV direct-to-consumer service, while Netflix is reportedly set to secure the rights to stream the annual Home Run Derby.

The early termination would represent a significant retreat from one of Apple's highest-profile sports investments to date. When the partnership was announced in 2022, it was framed as an important part of Apple's video streaming strategy, intended to expand the ‌Apple TV‌+ offering beyond scripted entertainment into live sports. At the time, Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Services, described the deal as an opportunity to provide fans with "the best seat in the house."

Apple's most prominent remaining sports deal is the 10-year global agreement with Major League Soccer, signed in 2023 and valued at an estimated $2.5 billion. The MLS Season Pass package is available exclusively through ‌Apple TV‌+.

In addition to MLS, Apple has held discussions with other leagues and rights holders. The company was previously linked to negotiations for NFL Sunday Ticket, which ultimately went to YouTube, and explored packages with the English Premier League and the Pac-12 conference. Multiple reports suggest that Apple is currently in talks to acquire Formula 1 streaming rights in the United States.
This article, "Apple TV+ Reportedly Abandoning MLB Coverage" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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OWC has unveiled its new Express 1M2 80G portable SSD, bringing another fast Thunderbolt 5 external storage option to Mac users with the latest hardware.


Providing over 6,000 MB/s real-world speeds, the 1M2 approaches the performance level of an internal MacBook Pro drive, making it a compelling partner for Apple's latest M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro models, not to mention the M4 Pro Mac mini and the latest Mac Studio.

The aluminum enclosure features a finned heatsink design that means no fans are required to maintain performance. Bus-powered through its included USB4 cable, the drive also works across multiple platforms including PCs, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, and Surface devices.

OWC offers both DIY and ready-to-run configurations. Users can purchase the empty enclosure and install their own NVMe M.2 SSD, or select pre-built models. The design supports both 2280 and 2242 form factor drives, so future upgrades should be straightforward.

The Express 1M2 80G maintains backward compatibility with Thunderbolt 3 and 4 systems, and starts at $219 for the empty enclosure, with pre-configured models ranging from $349 for 1TB to $1,299 for 8TB. The drive is available to purchase now through the OWC website and Amazon.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
This article, "OWC's New 1M2 80G Portable SSD Brings 6,000MB/s Speeds to Thunderbolt 5 Macs" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple Music is getting a new Automix feature when iOS 26 is released next month, and in a strategic counter-punch, Spotify has now launched its own mixing feature, allowing Premium subscribers to create seamless transitions between playlist tracks.


Users can access the new functionality, which is still in beta, by opening any playlist and selecting "Mix" from the toolbar. An "Auto" option provides instant blending, or you can try manually customizing the mix to fit your style.

When customizing, you can select presets like "Fade" or "Rise," then adjust specific settings to fine-tune volume, EQ, and effect curves (the app displays waveform and beat data to help you identify the optimal transition points).

The key and beats per minute are also shown for each track whenever Mix is tapped. As you'd expect, the feature works best with music that shares similar tempos and keys, so expect lots of mixed house and techno playlists on the streaming platform.

Apple's upcoming Automix feature for the Music app differs slightly from Spotify's implementation – it creates DJ-style transitions automatically across the entire music library, whereas Spotify is focusing here on playlist-specific customization.

If you prefer more control over transitions, Spotify's approach is likely to be the more appealing option. Playlists you mix can also be shared with other Premium users and toggled on or off at any time. If you're a Premium subscriber and you're not seeing the option, make sure to update your Spotify app.
This article, "Spotify Debuts Playlist Mixing Tool Ahead of Apple Music AutoMix" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Tomorrow marks the sixth anniversary of the Apple Card becoming widely available in the U.S., following a more limited preview period.


Apple's credit card can be managed in the iPhone's Wallet app, with key benefits including color-coded spending summaries, no fees, and Daily Cash cash back paid out daily. Apple Card holders can also open a high-yield savings account.

The anniversary comes ahead of a big change planned for the Apple Card.

Specifically, The Wall Street Journal last month reported that Chase Bank parent company JPMorgan was in "advanced talks" with Apple about replacing Goldman Sachs as the Apple Card's financial partner. Goldman Sachs is in the process of winding down its consumer lending business, which has lost billions of dollars in recent years, and Apple is reportedly willing to let them out of their contract that is supposed to run until 2030.

If the Apple Card does eventually get a new financial partner, there could be updates to the card's features, policies, interest rates, and customer service processes, although exact changes if any remain to be seen. It is also worth noting that Chase Bank does not currently offer a high-yield savings account akin to Apple Card Savings.

Unfortunately, the Apple Card remains available in the U.S. only, and there is no indication that will change in the near future.

What do you think of the Apple Card after six years? Let us know in the comments section.
This article, "Apple Card Turns Six With Big Change Ahead" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple will host its annual National Parks Apple Watch activity challenge on Sunday, August 24. The event is designed to celebrate national parks across the United States.


Apple Watch owners can earn an Apple Watch activity award by doing a workout that lasts for 20 minutes or more on August 24, 2025.

Like all of the Apple Watch activity challenges, earning the award will provide users with animated stickers that can be used in the Messages app.








Along with a new Apple Watch challenge, Apple typically offers other national parks-themed content in August, including an Apple Pay donation program, Apple TV+ content, Apple Music songs, books, podcasts, and more.
This article, "National Parks Apple Watch Activity Challenge Launching August 24" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple today provided developers with updated beta firmware for the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, allowing them to test the new AirPods features in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe. The firmware is only available to developers at the current time, and a device running ‌iOS 26‌, ‌iPadOS 26‌, or macOS 26 is required to install the update. The firmware has a build number of 8A5343a, up from 8A5324b.


The firmware adds several features that Apple is debuting alongside ‌iOS 26‌, ‌iPadOS 26‌, and macOS Tahoe.

The ‌AirPods Pro‌ 2 and ‌AirPods 4‌ support improved audio quality for phone calls and video calls, plus studio-quality audio recording for interviews, podcasts, and videos. There's also an option to use the AirPods as a camera remote with the Camera app to take photos or start a video recording.

With ‌iOS 26‌, ‌iPadOS 26‌, and macOS Tahoe, Apple added a beta firmware update installation option that's available from the AirPods settings interface when the AirPods are connected to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, which facilitates the beta testing.
This article, "Apple Releases New Beta Firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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