Welcome to 9to5Mac’s top stories of the week, where we recap the biggest news in the Apple world every Saturday. This week, we have what to expect from Apple in the new year, iOS 27 rumors, and the latest on Apple TV. Plus, our usual slate of new podcast episodes, opinion pieces, and much more. Read on for all of this week’s top stories.

In a press release today, Apple shared fascinating data about how Apple Watch helps users increase their exercise levels in January and maintain them well into the new year.

The data comes from approximately 100,000 participants in the Apple Heart and Movement Study over the last four years.

As my colleague Ryan detailed last month, Apple has more than 20 products likely launching in 2026. The festivities could begin as soon as this month. Here’s everything to expect from Apple in January.

Apple released a ton of new hardware this year, ranging from new iPhones to iPads to Macs and more. Here’s a recap of all the new products Apple introduced this year.

The Apple Health app on iPhone is a powerful way to track all facets of your health. Whether it’s recording data from your Apple Watch, importing records straight from your doctor, or integration with third-party apps, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s how to get the most out of the Apple Health app, especially if you’re really trying to live healthier in 2026.

As 2025 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on Apple’s year and determine what stood out most. It was an exciting year for Apple fans, ranging from new hardware like the iPhone 17, AirPods Pro 3, and new Macs. One of those updates, however, sits above the rest.

Here’s why we decided to crown the iPhone 17 as this year’s 9to5Mac Product of the Year.

One of the more useful changes to recent Apple Watch models is support for fast charging. This allows you to quickly top off your Apple Watch battery at much faster speeds than before. This includes the latest Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, as well as several previous models.

There are a few things to remember, and you don’t get everything you need in the box…

When Apple released iOS 18.4 to everyone earlier this year, it came with a big upgrade to the Home app. Users can now add robot vacuums to HomeKit for the first time thanks to the Matter smart home standard.

Here are the robot vacuums compatible with HomeKit…

Earlier this year, Apple officially announced CarPlay Ultra, the next-generation version of CarPlay that it first teased way back at WWDC 2022.

CarPlay Ultra began rolling out in May to Aston Martin owners in the United States and Canada. What about other automakers? Here’s what we know.

Apple updated its entire lineup of Apple Watch models this year, introducing the Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Ultra 3. Here’s what you need to know about Apple Watch SE 3 vs Apple Watch Series 11.

Plus, you can currently save $100 on the Apple Watch Series 11.

Benjamin and Chance return from the holiday break with some classic stories of tech support from the trenches. Also, iOS 26 Hold Assist proves better in theory than in reality based on listener feedback, and we do some Ask9to5Mac to close out 2025. 

And in Happy Hour Plus, Benjamin and Chance debate what should be 9to5Mac’s Product of the Year. Subscribe at 9to5mac.com/join. 

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Optimizing and perfecting my Mac setup is one of my favorite things to do. I love my M4 MacBook Pro, and surrounding it with accessories that improve my productivity is key to my workflow. If you just unwrapped a new Mac, there are tons of ways to upgrade your experience even further.

In fact, almost all of these products are on my desk as I write this story.

Ford has once again signaled its continued commitment to supporting CarPlay. Speaking at a conference this month, Ford CFO Sherry House confirmed that the company is “passionate” about giving drivers the option to use CarPlay alongside other in-car systems.

Update December 29, 2025: Last chance! 9to5Mac readers can exclusively save 50% on CardPointers for holiday shopping. Plus, you’ll receive a $100 $200 Savings Card as a sign up bonus.

CardPointers is a powerful app for iPhone that helps you maximize your credit card points and rewards. The app has recently been updated to take full advantage of iOS 26, including a new Liquid Glass design, integration with new Apple Intelligence Foundation Models, and much more.

According to the code hidden in the latest version of the Tesla app, Tesla is working on expanded phone key support. This could include support for Apple’s first-party car key feature in Apple Wallet.

According to a report from Not A Tesla App, the initial implementation of the feature “appears to be targeting specifically the Chinese market, leveraging Huawei’s HarmonyOS ecosystem,” but native iPhone support could be next.

If you just unwrapped a new iPhone, it’s time to explore the world of accessories. In particular, I’m a huge fan of MagSafe, which lets you magnetically attach accessories to the back of your iPhone. There’s a robust ecosystem of MagSafe accessories for iPhone on the market, and these are some of my favorites.

Welcome to 9to5Mac’s top stories of the week, where we recap the biggest news in the Apple world every Saturday. This week, we have tips and tricks for your new Apple gear, updates on iOS 26 features, and the latest on iPhone Fold. Plus, our usual slate of new podcast episodes, opinion pieces, and much more. Read on for all of this week’s top stories.

If you’re an Apple fan, chances are you unwrapped at least one Apple Gift Card this holiday season. These gift cards can be used for App Store purchases, Apple Store purchases, and Apple services like Apple Music and Apple TV.