From 9to5Mac · 40 stories
Route 25 Launches as a Social App for Pokémon Collectors
Route 25, an all-in-one app for Pokémon card collectors, has launched, integrating social features and a trading marketplace. The app allows users to track their collections, share with others, and engage in trading with varying costs depending on subscription levels, enhancing the collection experience.
Apple Temporarily Resumes Signing Older iOS Versions Amid Brief Halt
Apple briefly stopped signing older iOS versions for certain legacy iPhone and iPad models, limiting the ability for devices to downgrade or restore. This action affected users who use these devices for testing or compatibility purposes. However, signing has since been resumed, allowing restorations.
iPhone 18 Pro Rumored to Increase Thickness and Weight Significantly
The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to be 2mm thicker and heavier than the iPhone 17 Pro. This increase in size is believed to accommodate a redesigned camera system with potentially a variable aperture. The changes follow a data breach at Apple's supplier Tata, which released design details online. The adjustments could affect consumer choice, particularly with the removal of black as a color option.
Apple TV releases first trailer for new Snoopy special
Apple TV has released the trailer for 'Snoopy Presents: There’s No Place Like Home, Snoopy,' scheduled to premiere on July 31. The special follows Snoopy's quest to find his doghouse after it is sold during a yard sale, highlighting themes of home and friendship alongside Charlie Brown.
Tim Cook and Eddy Cue Attend 2026 Sun Valley Conference
Apple CEO Tim Cook and SVP Eddy Cue have arrived at the Sun Valley Conference in Idaho, which runs until July 11. The annual conference gathers influential figures from media, technology, and finance for private discussions regarding industry trends and developments.
macOS 27 Golden Gate beta 3 introduces new wallpapers and screen savers
The beta 3 release of macOS 27 Golden Gate adds two new wallpapers and screen savers themed after the Golden Gate. These new options include animated features for the Lock Screen and screen saver settings. The public beta is set to be released later this month.
iPhone 17 Pro Max included in US time capsule for 250th anniversary
A time capsule buried to celebrate America's 250th anniversary includes an iPhone 17 Pro Max. Scheduled to be opened in 2276, its operational status at that time remains uncertain.
PulseKit App Launches for Easy Analytics Monitoring on iPhone
PulseKit, a new analytics app for iPhone, lets users track data from 30 platforms via widgets. It offers developers a centralized view for app performance metrics directly from their device homescreen.
Silo season three debuts on Apple TV today
The third season of Silo, a sci-fi series based on Hugh Howey's books, is now streaming on Apple TV. This season introduces a split timeline to reveal the show's mysteries, showing flashbacks about the silos' creation alongside Juliette's current struggles with amnesia.
Interactive timeline showcases every iPad released since 2010
Sheets.works released an interactive timeline cataloging all 45 iPad models with 131 colorways since 2010. This project includes pricing evolution, individual model specs, and key historical highlights for each iPad.
iFixit releases video documenting iPhone battery assembly process
iFixit published a video detailing the analog process of assembling an iPhone battery. It showcases the manual steps involved from battery cell to finished product, emphasizing quality control and programming.
2026 iPhone Photography Awards Winners Announced
The winners of the 2026 iPhone Photography Awards have been revealed, showcasing exceptional photography across diverse categories. Notably, a dramatic nighttime photo of a volcano taken with an iPhone 15 Pro received the top honor.
tvOS 27 Update May Prompt Apple TV 4K Upgrades Due to AI Features and Dropped Support
The upcoming tvOS 27 update, expected next month, could encourage Apple TV users to upgrade to newer Apple TV 4K models. This is due to new Siri AI features that may require new hardware and the update's lack of support for older models like the Apple TV HD and first-gen Apple TV 4K.
Rumors suggest MacBook Neo 2 will feature 12GB RAM and A19 Pro chip
Rumors indicate the upcoming MacBook Neo 2 will include 12GB of RAM, an increase from the current 8GB, and an A19 Pro chip. This memory upgrade is expected to improve performance for demanding tasks and support new AI features in macOS 27.
Experts Advise Parents to Adjust Screen Time Limits for Children Returning to School
Child development experts recommend that parents re-evaluate screen time limits for children as they transition from summer break back to the school year. The advice stems from research indicating that relaxed summer screen time habits can negatively affect academic performance and attention once school resumes.
iPhone 17 Expected to Set Record for Longest Flagship Run Since iPhone 4
The iPhone 17 is projected to remain Apple's top mainline iPhone for approximately 18 months, surpassing the 16-month record held by the iPhone 4. This extended cycle is due to the anticipated spring 2027 release of the iPhone 18, establishing a new benchmark for standard iPhone flagship longevity.
Apple considered pre-loading new iPhones with user data for Upgrade Program
Apple reportedly considered a "white-glove" feature for its Apple Upgrade program that would have shipped new iPhones pre-loaded with user data from iCloud backups. This feature was ultimately not implemented due to concerns about data freshness and user privacy. The concept aimed to simplify device setup for customers upgrading annually.
Ohsnap MCON Controller Transforms iPhone into Mobile Game Console
The Ohsnap MCON controller, first seen at CES, is a modular gaming accessory that attaches to iPhones via MagSafe and slides open to reveal controls. It offers a compact design and a secondary "Kickback mode" for wireless play, providing a Switch-like experience for mobile gaming. This device provides a new option for mobile gamers seeking a full-featured controller with ergonomic benefits.
Tesla, Rivian, and GM Continue to Withhold CarPlay Support from Vehicles
Tesla, Rivian, and GM do not offer Apple CarPlay integration in their vehicles, citing preferences for their proprietary infotainment systems. While Tesla has had rumors of potential CarPlay support, Rivian and GM have explicitly stated their intentions to maintain their current approach, with Rivian suggesting AI could make CarPlay obsolete.
Apple's Upcoming iPhone Launch Event Expected to Feature More Live Elements
Apple's next iPhone launch event is anticipated to incorporate more live elements, moving beyond the fully pre-recorded format adopted during the pandemic. This shift suggests a hybrid approach, combining pre-recorded segments with increased live interactions, potentially enhancing audience engagement.
Apple's Q3 Earnings Expected to Meet Projections; Focus on Apple Upgrade Program Impact
Apple is set to announce its fiscal Q3 earnings, with analysts expecting revenue growth between 14% and 17% year-on-year. The key focus for investors will be the company's outlook on the new Apple Upgrade program and its potential impact on sales.
OLED Burn-In Concerns for Macs Addressed as Apple Transitions Display Technology
Apple is transitioning its Mac lineup to OLED displays, following their introduction in Apple Watch, iPhone, and iPad models. This shift raises questions about potential OLED burn-in, a concern due to the technology's susceptibility to uneven pixel degradation over time.
Guide to Removing Your Personal Data from the Internet
Personal data is widely available for sale due to data brokers. This poses security risks and privacy concerns for individuals, as their information can be exploited in scams and harassment. Automated solutions like Incogni can aid in data removal efforts.
Turn any iPhone into a dumb phone using Assistive Access feature
Apple's Assistive Access feature allows parents to restrict app access on iPhones, creating a 'dumb phone' experience for kids. This method offers an alternative to waiting for iOS 27's parental controls update, providing control over allowed apps and communication features.
SANDISK Phone Drive for iPhone addresses storage limitations
SANDISK launched the Phone Drive for iPhone, providing an external storage solution to expand iPhone storage. It supports direct video saving and fast file transfers, enhancing user flexibility and accessibility.
NOCO XGrid XDS3 Premium MagSafe Charger Offers High-Quality Design and Functionality
The NOCO XGrid XDS3 is a premium 3-in-1 MagSafe charger, designed for iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. It features a die-cast metal chassis, Qi2 certification, fast charging, and includes a USB-C wall charger with international plugs, making it a versatile charging station for Apple devices.
Troubleshooting Apple CarPlay: Addressing Common Connection Issues and Radio Interference
Apple CarPlay users experiencing connection problems may find solutions through basic troubleshooting steps, such as checking cables, restarting devices, and ensuring Siri is enabled. Additionally, radio interference, particularly in the 2.4GHz band, can cause CarPlay and Android Auto connections to drop in specific locations, leading to navigation failures.
iOS 27 introduces new extra-large Home Screen widgets, including two for Apple Calendar
iOS 27 adds extra-large Home Screen widgets for several Apple applications, with Apple Calendar receiving two new options: 'List' and 'Up Next'. These larger widgets allow users to view more information directly from their Home Screen or Today view without opening the app.
iPhone app settings location causes user frustration due to inconsistent access methods
iPhone users experience frustration due to the inconsistent placement of app settings, requiring them to guess whether to find controls within the app or in the separate iOS Settings app. This design choice complicates basic tasks like adjusting camera focal lengths, leading to a clunky user experience.
Apple's Cinematic Mode for iPhone 13 appears neglected, unlike improved Portrait Mode
Apple introduced Cinematic Mode with the iPhone 13 in 2021, a video feature simulating shallow depth of field, but has not significantly improved it since its release. This contrasts with Portrait Mode, which has seen continuous enhancements and now offers realistic computational photography effects. The lack of development for Cinematic Mode is seen as a missed opportunity, as its initial implementation was considered a beta version despite being a headline feature.
iOS 27 introduces Call Context feature for Phone app
iOS 27 includes a new Call Context feature within the Phone app, which automatically displays relevant information when a user calls a business. This feature, powered by Apple Intelligence, aims to provide immediate access to data like confirmation codes from other apps during calls, improving user convenience.
iPad app "Dashboard for your home" turns HomeKit into a wall-mountable command center
The iPad app "Dashboard for your home" integrates HomeKit devices, cameras, weather, and calendars into a single interface for smart home management. It allows users to control lights, thermostats, and view live camera feeds, including a recently added 3D floor plan feature. This provides a dedicated control panel solution for Apple HomeKit users.
DIY iPhone Camera Mod Improves Outdoor Photography Experience
A user created a DIY camera modification for their iPhone to improve outdoor photography by adding a viewfinder. This modification addresses challenges like bright sunlight and reflections on the screen, making the iPhone more practical for certain shooting conditions.
Review of Mothca matte screen protector and Spigen Thin Fit case for iPhone 17 Pro
A user recommends the Mothca matte glass screen protector and the Spigen Thin Fit case for the iPhone 17 Pro. The screen protector offers a matte display experience, while the case provides MagSafe compatibility and camera protection.
macOS allows setting different default languages for individual applications
macOS includes a feature that enables users to set different default languages for individual applications, which can be useful for bilingual users or those who switch between language variations. This functionality is located within the System Settings under Language & Region, specifically in the Applications section. The feature only works with applications that support macOS's localization APIs.
Notepad.exe is a new lightweight code editor for Mac with multi-language support
Notepad.exe, a new code editor for Mac, offers a lightweight interface for writing code in Swift, Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, and Go. It aims to simplify the initial coding process by starting with a blank file and includes features like a Notes library, an agentic coding assistant, and simulator integration for iOS developers.
Customizing Apple Watch Sleep Score Notifications for Specific Ranges
Apple Watch's sleep tracking feature, introduced in watchOS 26, includes a sleep score that can notify users about their sleep quality. Users can now customize these notifications to only receive alerts for "OK," "Low," or "Very Low" sleep scores, rather than all scores, to focus on actionable insights.
Apple Announces 2026 Sales Tax Holidays for Select Products in 10 U.S. States
Apple shared its 2026 sales tax holiday schedule, allowing tax-free purchases of specific products in 10 U.S. states between July and August. The initiative will include popular devices such as Macs and iPads, with varying dates and price limits depending on the state. This move provides financial relief for consumers amidst rising product prices.
Banking App Setting for Recurring Card Payments May Not Notify Users by Default
A user discovered that their banking app did not provide immediate notifications for recurring card payments, unlike other transactions. This was due to a default setting that needed to be manually enabled to receive alerts for these types of payments. This highlights a potential blind spot in financial oversight for users relying on real-time notifications.
Ways to Discreetly Attach AirTags to Cameras
Different methods to discreetly attach AirTags to cameras include camera strap mounts, quick-release plates, tripod adapters, and cages. These options help prevent easy detection by thieves, maximizing tracking efficiency before alerts are triggered.