From 9to5Mac · 40 stories
Disney+ Explores Free Ad-Supported Tier to Expand Reach and Ad Revenue
Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro confirmed the company is exploring a free, ad-supported streaming option for Disney+. This initiative aims to expand the service's reach to price-sensitive consumers, increase advertising revenue, and drive awareness for paid subscriptions amidst competition from free platforms like YouTube.
Spotify Reaches 300 Million Premium Subscribers, Reports €4.8 Billion in Q2 Revenue
Spotify announced it has surpassed 300 million Premium subscribers, a 9% increase year-over-year, and reached 777 million monthly active users in the second quarter. The company reported €4.8 billion ($5.5 billion) in revenue and a 33.4% gross margin, driven by subscriber growth and diversification of content offerings.
Apple to Enable iPhone-to-Windows Clipboard Sharing by Fall 2027 in EU
Apple plans to introduce a solution allowing users to copy and paste content between iPhones and Windows PCs, with a target completion date of Fall 2027. This development responds to a March 2026 interoperability request from Microsoft under the European Union's Digital Markets Act, aiming to bridge a gap in cross-device content transfer.
Google Health 5.05 Adds Two-Way Apple Health Syncing for Fitbit Data
Google Health version 5.05 for iOS now supports two-way synchronization with Apple Health, allowing Fitbit data such as exercise records, sleep, vitals, and steps to be written to HealthKit. This update addresses a long-standing limitation where Google Health could only read data from Apple Health, making Fitbit data accessible to other HealthKit-compatible applications.
Apple CEO hints at paid iCloud+ tiers for increased Siri AI usage
Apple CEO Tim Cook indicated that the company may introduce paid upgrade options within iCloud Plus to allow users to increase their usage limits for Siri AI. This suggests a monetization strategy for Apple's upcoming AI features, which rely on server models and have daily usage limits. The new Siri AI, launching with iOS 27, will offer features like on-screen interaction and a standalone AI app.
Apple Aims for Late 2027 Smart Glasses Launch, Prioritizing Privacy and Developer Tools
Apple is reportedly planning to unveil its first smart glasses at WWDC in June 2027, with a public release by the end of that year. The company is focusing on privacy features, including on-device processing and the absence of facial recognition, and will likely provide developers with tools to create third-party applications for the device.
Apple Reclaims Most Valuable Company Title, Surpassing Nvidia
Apple has overtaken Nvidia as the world's most valuable company with a market cap of $4.88 trillion during Friday's trading. This shift in ranking reflects changing investor sentiment towards AI and product innovation. Apple's stock rise follows a growth of 22% this year.
Apple Sued for $1.8M After Fake Crypto Wallet App Appears on App Store
Three individuals are suing Apple, alleging that a fraudulent Sparrow Wallet application downloaded from the App Store led to the theft of approximately $1.8 million in Bitcoin. The lawsuit, filed on July 24 in California, claims Apple failed to adequately review and monitor applications, despite promoting the App Store as a secure source for software.
Apple TV+ Announces 'Neuromancer' Premiere Date and New Trailers at Comic-Con
Apple TV+ announced that its adaptation of William Gibson's novel "Neuromancer" will premiere on January 22, 2027, with the first two episodes, followed by weekly releases for a total of ten episodes. The announcement was made at San Diego Comic-Con, where a teaser trailer was also released. Additionally, trailers for "Dark Matter" season two and the movie "Matchbox" were debuted.
Geekbench 7 Released with New Media Workloads and Redesigned Multi-Core Testing
Primate Labs has released Geekbench 7, an update to its cross-platform benchmarking tool, featuring new video and audio encoding/decoding tests, larger datasets, and a redesigned multi-core test that mirrors real-world application behavior. This update aims to provide more accurate performance measurements for modern CPUs and GPUs across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
OpenAI Sued Over ChatGPT's Allegedly Dangerous Health Advice
OpenAI faces a lawsuit from a pastor who alleges ChatGPT provided dangerous medical advice regarding a pulmonary embolism, leading to delayed treatment. The suit claims negligence and the unauthorized practice of medicine, seeking financial damages and stricter guardrails for AI health recommendations.
WhatsApp Introduces Multitude of New Features Including iPad Sign-Up and CarPlay Integration
WhatsApp has released several updates, allowing iPad users to sign up without a phone number, enhancing integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and enabling music sharing from Apple Music and Spotify. These changes improve multi-device usability and align WhatsApp more closely with social media features.
TSMC to Invest Additional $100 Billion for 2nm Chip Fabs in Arizona
TSMC is set to expand its U.S. operations by investing an additional $100 billion in building at least four new advanced chip fabs in Arizona. This move aims to increase domestic production capacity amid rising U.S. demand and government support. However, challenges remain regarding the production of advanced chips and the economic impact on TSMC's margins.
Apple iPad Mini's October Release Promises OLED Upgrade Amid Price Concerns
Apple plans to launch an OLED iPad mini by October, featuring a fixed 60Hz refresh rate. Despite missing ProMotion, the upgrade emphasizes display quality and follows recent price increases, influenced by supply chain issues.
EU Exempts Smartwatches from User-Replaceable Battery Rule
The European Commission has exempted smartwatches, fitness trackers, and certain other wearables from the EU regulation requiring user-replaceable batteries. This decision responds to safety and design concerns, particularly for devices with compact, sealed designs. The exemption must be reviewed by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU.
Apple Raises Prices for Apple Music and Apple One Subscriptions Amid Licensing Cost Concerns
Apple has increased subscription prices for Apple Music and Apple One in response to rising licensing costs. The individual Apple Music plan now costs $11.99 per month, while the Apple One Family plan has risen to $27.95. This marks the first price hike for these services in nearly four years.
Meta Launches AI Alert System for Teens' Self-Harm Conversations
Meta has introduced an AI-driven alert system to notify parents if their teens discuss self-harm or suicide with its chatbot on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. This measure addresses regulatory concerns and aims to enhance safety for young users. The system includes manual review of flagged conversations to minimize unnecessary alerts.
Spotify Expands Free Child Accounts with Parental Controls to More Countries
Spotify has expanded its free child-friendly managed accounts to more countries, allowing parents to create and manage accounts with personalized content and controls, even without a Premium subscription. Initially available only to Premium Family subscribers, the service now extends to free tier users in the US, UK, Australia, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The expansion highlights Spotify's focus on offering safer listening experiences for children under 13.
TV Time App to Shut Down in July 2026, New App Bingers Announced
TV Time, a popular TV and movie-tracking app, is set to shut down on July 15, 2026, citing unsustainable operating costs. The app's co-founder, Antonio Pinto, is launching a new app named Bingers to serve the old community. The transition reflects a shift towards AI-focused business models.
Letterboxd Valued at $250 Million Amid Acquisition Talks with Netflix, Sony, Paramount
Letterboxd, a social media app for movie enthusiasts, is in early-stage acquisition talks with companies like Netflix, Paramount, and Sony Pictures. The platform is currently valued at $250 million, despite limited revenue, and is majority-owned by Tiny. Letterboxd’s membership surged during COVID-19, reaching 26-30 million users.
Supreme Court Upholds Texas App Store Age Verification Law
The US Supreme Court denied requests from trade groups, including Apple and Google, to block the enforcement of Texas's App Store Accountability Act, a law requiring age verification for app users. The law mandates that app stores verify users' ages and obtain parental consent for minors, amid constitutional debates. This development impacts how app companies handle user compliance in Texas.
FCC Proposed Rule Change May Obscure Broadband Costs
The FCC is set to vote on a proposed rule change that would let ISPs list all passthrough fees as a single 'up to' amount rather than itemizing them. This change could reduce transparency in broadband costs, affecting consumers' ability to understand the true cost of services. ISPs often use these passthrough fees to elevate monthly bills above advertised rates.
Apple loses $634 million patent case against Masimo; new trial request denied
Apple's attempt to overturn a $634 million patent verdict in favor of Masimo has been denied, as a judge upheld the jury's ruling that the Apple Watch infringed on Masimo's patent. This decision follows a long legal battle concerning technology used in health monitoring devices, highlighting the ongoing risks of patent infringement in the tech industry.
AI-generated fake books proliferate on Apple Books and Amazon
Numerous fake AI-generated books have emerged on platforms like Apple Books and Amazon, often mimicking bestsellers and their authors. This surge raises concerns regarding intellectual property protection for authors and small publishers.
Investigation finds disguised gambling apps on Brazil's App Store
An investigation by 9to5Mac revealed over 60 apps disguising gambling platforms as simple games on Brazil's App Store. Many of these so-called jacket apps display different content when accessed from Brazil, violating App Store guidelines and exploiting loopholes.
Apple dominates Edge AI smartwatch market with 90% share in Q1 2026
In Q1 2026, Apple accounted for approximately 90% of global Edge AI smartwatch shipments, amidst a 70% year-over-year growth in this segment. The prominence of Apple in this market highlights the accelerating shift towards local AI processing in wearable devices, which enhances functionality and user experience.
Apple's iOS 27 introduces Trust Insights to combat real-time scams
Apple has unveiled the Trust Insights framework in iOS 27, designed to help apps detect social engineering scams in real-time. By analyzing user behavior during interactions, it can flag potential scams and notify users through apps, addressing the growing prevalence of such scams, particularly with the rise of AI deepfakes.
Apple Accused of Collaborating with Trump Administration to Remove ICE-Tracking Apps
US Representative Jamie Raskin accused Apple of removing ICE-tracking apps from its App Store at the behest of the Trump administration, despite a lack of evidence that these apps endangered officers. Raskin stated that Apple is working with the government to violate customers' First Amendment rights to record government activity. This action follows Apple's explanation that the apps were removed after a fatal shooting at a Dallas ICE office, though Raskin disputes any connection between the shooter and the apps.
Audible Introduces AI-Powered Character Interaction and Enhanced Listening Features
Audible launched three new features: an AI-powered interactive character experience, a real-time character guide, and bonus imagery/information for audiobooks. These additions aim to differentiate Audible in the competitive audiobook market by offering more immersive and informative listening experiences.
Judge certifies class-action lawsuit against Apple over Apple Pay fees
A U.S. District Judge has certified a class-action lawsuit accusing Apple of charging payment card issuers inflated fees for Apple Pay transactions. This allows U.S. payment card issuers to collectively pursue claims against Apple, potentially impacting Apple's revenue from Apple Pay and its mobile wallet policies.
Beats Launches 360 Headphones with Modular Design and Apple Ecosystem Integration
Beats has released its new Beats 360 over-ear headphones, positioned as a premium alternative to the Beats Studio Pro. These headphones feature a modular design with interchangeable ear cushions and headbands, offering customization and dual-material options for general listening and gym use. The Beats 360 also integrate with Apple features like quick pairing, auto-device switching, and Find My, and are priced at $349.99.
Apple Details Usage Limits and Paid Access for Apple Intelligence Features
Apple has released a support article outlining usage limits for Apple Intelligence features that rely on server-side models, confirming that increased access will be available for a fee. This clarifies previous announcements about certain AI functionalities having usage restrictions, impacting how users will interact with these new capabilities.
SK hynix Discusses US Memory Chip Manufacturing with Intel, Considering Ohio Plant
SK hynix is in talks with Intel to establish memory chip manufacturing in the United States, potentially at Intel's Ohio One site or through a joint venture with Intel and other AI hyperscalers. This initiative could address memory shortages and complements SK hynix's existing HBM packaging plant expansion in Indiana. The move could also lead to US-made memory chips for Apple devices, though the South Korean government might object due to its own $520 billion chipmaking investment plan.
Apple's Siri Architecture Supports Third-Party AI Model Integration, Code Reveals
Code analysis of iOS 27 and macOS Golden Gate private frameworks indicates Apple has designed Siri's new architecture to integrate third-party AI models like Claude and ChatGPT. This integration allows external AI models to handle requests and interact with Apple's system features, potentially expanding Siri's capabilities and offering users more choice.
Siri AI Expands to Five New Languages in October, English Rollout in September
Apple's redesigned Siri AI will launch in English with the official release of iOS 27 on September 14, following beta testing. In October, Siri AI will expand to French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish, broadening its availability to a larger global user base. This expansion was announced during Apple's fall iPhone event.
Stryker completes first surgical procedure using Apple Vision Pro with SportSuite Vision app
Stryker announced the completion of the first hip arthroscopy performed using Apple Vision Pro with its SportSuite Vision app, which integrates critical digital content into a surgeon's virtual space. This marks the first FDA-authorized app for intraoperative use with Vision Pro, demonstrating a new application of spatial computing in surgical workflows.
Apple faces new £2 billion UK lawsuit over App Tracking Transparency rules
Apple is facing a new £2 billion ($2.7 billion) lawsuit in London from app developers regarding its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) rules. The lawsuit alleges Apple abuses its market power by unfairly imposing restrictions on third-party apps while its own apps are exempt, impacting developer revenue.
Dropbox users affected by security breach due to SSO authentication flaw
Dropbox notified users of unauthorized account access between August 4 and August 21, 2026, stemming from a vulnerability in its single sign-on (SSO) integration with Lenovo IDs. Attackers exploited a missing email verification step in Lenovo's process to create rogue Lenovo IDs, which Dropbox then implicitly linked to existing user accounts without further authentication. This incident highlights critical flaws in federated identity management and the need for robust verification during SSO setup.
Apple Maps Opens Ad Booking for Businesses in US and Canada
Apple has launched ad booking for businesses in Apple Maps for the US and Canada, allowing companies to reserve ad placements before ads go live to users. This initiative introduces a new advertising channel within Apple's ecosystem, impacting local businesses and the digital advertising landscape.
Apple Releases Sixth RCs for macOS Sonoma 14.8.8 and Sequoia 15.7.8 with Security Updates
Apple has released the sixth set of Release Candidates for macOS Sonoma 14.8.8 and Sequoia 15.7.8, focusing on security improvements. These follow a series of RCs prompted by AI-related security risks.