From 9to5Mac · 40 stories
SwitchBot RGBICWW ceiling light integrates native Matter support with Apple Home
SwitchBot has launched the RGBICWW ceiling light, which supports Matter and connects directly to Apple Home without a hub. Available in two sizes, it features dynamic RGBIC color display and adjustable white temperature, aiming to enhance smart home lighting options.
Apple raises iPhone prices in Japan by up to 11%
Apple has increased prices for the iPhone 17 lineup, iPhone Air, and iPhone 16e in Japan by up to 11%. The rise is likely influenced by currency fluctuations, specifically the weak yen, which impacts the dollar value of sales in the region.
Apple TV, Music for Android receive widgets and WhatsApp sharing updates
Apple TV and Apple Music for Android have launched version updates introducing homescreen widgets and WhatsApp sharing capabilities. Apple TV 2.5 adds three widget sizes for easy access to content, while Apple Music 6.5 introduces new widgets and allows users to share music on WhatsApp, enhancing user engagement and accessibility.
Satechi launches color-matched accessories for MacBook Neo
Satechi has introduced a trio of color-matched accessories for the MacBook Neo, enhancing its functionality without compromising aesthetics. The new accessories include a multiport hub and a Snap hub, both designed to expand connectivity options for users.
WhatsApp introduces in-call mic mode settings for iPhone users
WhatsApp has added in-call controls for iPhone users to switch between Apple’s microphone modes, improving audio management during calls. This feature allows users to choose settings like Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum directly from the call interface, enhancing call quality and user experience.
Brazil demands clearer age safeguards from Apple for betting apps
Brazilian officials have issued Apple a five-day deadline for detailed responses on age restrictions for betting apps. The requirement arises after concerns that existing measures fail to prevent minors from accessing gambling platforms.
Apple introduces 36-month financing for cellular iPads via AT&T and Verizon
Apple now offers 36-month financing options for cellular iPad purchases through AT&T and Verizon. Previously, buyers could only access a 12-month interest-free plan with Apple Card, making the new option more affordable for customers following a recent price increase across the iPad lineup.
Apple TV announces return date and first look at 'Where's Wanda?' season two
Apple TV has confirmed that season two of 'Where’s Wanda?' will premiere on October 21, 2024. The show, a dark comedy about a family's quest to find their missing daughter, will resume with the Klatt family facing new challenges culminating in a murder investigation.
Apple restricts unlocked iPhone purchases via carrier financing
Apple has closed a workaround that allowed customers to buy unlocked iPhones through carrier financing from T-Mobile and Verizon. This change locks iPhones to the specific carrier until fully paid off, affecting purchasing flexibility for customers.
Opera's iOS browser users grow significantly in US and UK
Opera reports a 93% increase in monthly active users in the UK and 50% in the US for Q2 2026. This growth follows regulatory changes that enhanced browser visibility on iOS and is attributed to user retention driven by new features.
iOS 27 public beta now available; compatible iPhone models listed
iOS 27 public beta is available for iPhone users, supporting the same models as iOS 26. This includes new features like enhanced Siri functionalities and app updates across compatible devices.
Apple Rises in China’s Shrinking Smartphone Market Amid Global Shipment Growth
In Q2 2026, Apple captured 20% of the global smartphone market and rose to second place in China. Despite a 13% drop in smartphone sales during China's 618 shopping festival, Apple's iPhone 17 discounts drew significant local attention. Apple and Huawei were the only companies to experience shipment growth in China during this period.
WhatsApp developing iCloud alternative for chat backups on iPhone
WhatsApp is creating its own backup service for iPhone users, providing an alternative to iCloud. The service includes end-to-end encryption by default, 2GB of free storage, and potential paid plans up to 1TB.
iPhone 20 may feature 'single slab of glass' design with glass back
Apple is reportedly working on a design for the 20th anniversary iPhone that could feature a curved display and a glass back, moving closer to the 'single slab of glass' vision proposed by former design chief Jony Ive. This design includes embedding Face ID and the front camera underneath the display, creating a nearly bezel-less look.
Twelve South PowerBug: Cable-free Qi2 Charger for MagSafe
Twelve South launched the PowerBug, a Qi2 charger that plugs directly into wall outlets without cables. It supports 15-watt wireless charging and includes a USB-C port for additional device charging, addressing common clutter issues.
Meta disputes Apple on EU interoperability for third-party device pairing
Meta has raised concerns with Apple regarding the implementation of EU-mandated interoperability for third-party devices. The disagreement centers around the automatic pairing of Meta devices across multiple Apple devices, which Apple has yet to implement despite the requirements of the Digital Markets Act.
WordPress launches new Apple TV app for viewing educational video content
WordPress has released a new app, WordPress TV, for Apple TV that enables users to watch thousands of educational videos. The app features talks, tutorials, and session recordings from WordPress events, enhancing access to resources for users and developers.
Apple Sues OpenAI Over Alleged Trade Secret Theft by Former Employees
Apple is suing OpenAI, claiming trade secret theft by ex-Apple employees now at OpenAI, including former VP of product design, Tang Tan. The lawsuit notes concern over more than 400 former Apple employees at OpenAI, escalating tensions about proprietary knowledge in tech.
Apple acquires observability startup SigScalr
Apple has acquired select assets and employees from SigScalr, which develops the observability app SigLens. This move may enhance Apple's capabilities in data log management and observability tools against competitors like Splunk and Datadog.
Apple Avoids Semiconductor Tariffs via Intel Chip Agreement
Apple secured a tariff exemption on semiconductor imports by agreeing to use Intel for Mac and iPhone chips. This move prevented potential price increases for Apple products, crucial in maintaining profit margins amid supply chain challenges.
US eases AI chip export restrictions for Apple in the UAE
The U.S. Department of Commerce has relaxed export restrictions for advanced computing technology, allowing Apple and seven other companies to import AI chips and servers into the UAE license-free. This change may enhance operational capabilities for these companies within the region as they focus on AI developments.
LNDU HK01W Smart Lock Offers Affordable Apple Home Key and Wi-Fi Features
The LNDU HK01W smart lock now offers Apple Home Key support for approximately $100, providing a budget-friendly option for Apple users. This lock features multiple unlocking methods, including biometric, keypad, fob, and traditional key access, while offering Wi-Fi connectivity.
Walkie-Talkie app removed from Apple Watch in watchOS 27 update
Apple has announced the removal of its Walkie-Talkie app in the upcoming watchOS 27 update, although no reason has been provided for its discontinuation. The feature, which allowed real-time voice communication between Apple Watches, was considered complicated and may not have gained widespread use.
iOS 27 enables GymKit for iPhone and AirPods, enhancing gym workout tracking
iOS 27 expands GymKit, allowing iPhone and AirPods Pro 3 to track workouts without Apple Watch. This integration provides heart-rate data from AirPods while gym equipment sends metrics to the iPhone, appealing to users without an Apple Watch.
Apple TV announces August schedule for Friday Night Baseball
Apple TV and Major League Baseball revealed the August schedule for Friday Night Baseball, featuring weekly doubleheaders across 60 regions. Key matchups include the Yankees vs. Red Sox and other notable games, enhancing the platform's sports streaming offerings.
Apple updates App Store Connect age rating questionnaire for social media features
Apple introduced new age rating questions in App Store Connect specifically for apps with social media capabilities. This change affects how apps are categorized in the upcoming Time Allowances feature aimed at child safety and parental controls.
Netflix Considers Live TV and Bundles Amid Declining Engagement
Netflix is exploring options to combat declining subscriber engagement by potentially adding live TV channels and bundling with other streaming services. This shift could enhance user experience by providing continuous viewing options and improve retention rates, crucial for Netflix's subscription model.
iVANKY Launches FusionDock Ultra for High-Performance Mac Workflows
iVANKY has introduced the FusionDock Ultra, a Thunderbolt 5 dock designed for Apple Silicon MacBook users. It features a dual-chip architecture to optimize bandwidth and support for multiple high-resolution displays, making it particularly useful for demanding professional workflows.
Strava introduces Events tab for local races and group activities
Strava has launched a new Events sub-tab within its Groups feature, allowing users to find and participate in local races and group activities. The integration with the Runna training app enhances user experience, promoting community engagement through tailored event recommendations.
Apple TV announces Comic-Con 2023 lineup with star-studded panels and sneak peeks
Apple TV will host events at San Diego Comic-Con for the first time, including panels for several series and films. The two-hour Hall H panel on July 25 features appearances from stars of its major productions, like 'Widow's Bay' and 'Dark Matter'. This marks a significant push by Apple TV to increase its visibility in the entertainment industry.
iPhone 18 Pro Max component costs may rise nearly $300, report finds
Counterpoint Research estimates that the component costs for the iPhone 18 Pro Max could increase significantly, primarily due to rising NAND and DRAM prices. This rise is likely to impact Apple's profit margins and retail pricing strategy for different storage variants.
India removes tariffs on smartphone manufacturing parts to boost local production
India has eliminated 7.5% and 5% tariffs on key components for smartphones, aiming to enhance local manufacturing. This policy supports India’s goal of growing its electronics sector to $500 billion by 2026 and may accelerate Apple's iPhone production in the country.
iOS 27 introduces nine new languages and accents to Apple Translate
iOS 27 will expand Apple Translate's language support from 21 to 30 languages and accents, including new additions like Hebrew and several others. The update aims to enhance multilingual support within Apple's ecosystem, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity.
Halide 3.1 Introduces Perspective Correction, RAW-Only Capture, and New Look
Halide 3.1: Scarlet Edition launches on July 10, featuring a perspective correction tool and a new visual style. The app will also add a RAW-only capture mode and several user-driven enhancements.
Apple TV achieves record 87 nominations for 2026 Emmy Awards
Apple TV received an unprecedented 87 nominations for the upcoming 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards, highlighting its growing influence in television. This follows last year's success of 25 wins out of 81 nominations, showcasing its rising prominence among streaming services.
Apple's Upcoming AirPods Will Feature Cameras with Delayed Release Until 2027
Apple plans to release a new version of AirPods featuring built-in cameras, now expected in late 2027 due to delays. The cameras will be integrated with Siri, providing context to users but are not intended for capturing photos or videos.
Apple scraps lower-cost Vision Pro component development with Samsung Display
Apple has discontinued the development of a lower-cost panel for its Vision Pro headset, known as G-VR. This decision follows a strategic shift towards AI smart glasses, signaling a potential delay in the release of more affordable XR devices.
Apple sees Mac shipment growth while PC market declines in Q2 2026
IDC reports that Apple was the only major PC vendor with significant shipment growth in Q2 2026, as the global PC market contracted 4.9%. The increase in Apple's Mac shipments is attributed to successful product launches and a strategic pricing position amid broader market challenges.
Spotify increases pinned item limit from 4 to 20 after user feedback
Spotify has expanded the number of items users can pin in their library from 4 to 20, responding to long-standing user requests. This change applies to both free and paid accounts, enhancing user experience and library organization.
macOS 28 will no longer support encrypted Mac OS Extended volumes
Apple has announced that macOS 28 will not support encrypted Mac OS Extended volumes. Users must decrypt or reformat these volumes to maintain compatibility with future macOS versions, indicating a shift toward the APFS file system, which supports built-in encryption.