iOS 26.4 Lays Groundwork for CarPlay Video, Including Apple TV Back at WWDC 2025, Apple revealed that it was planning to allow CarPlay users to watch video via AirPlay in their vehicles while they are not driving, and the first beta of iOS 26.4 suggests the feature may be nearing availability.
The original mention of the feature appeared on Apple's CarPlay page for developers within a section specific to automakers, indicating that CarPlay with AirPlay video is something automakers will need to implement with on their end. Presumably, this is because there needs to be integration with vehicle systems to ensure that the feature can only be used while the vehicle is parked so as to hinder the potential for distracted driving.
The first iOS 26.4 beta seeded to developers today includes a number of new references to CarPlay video playback, including features like onboarding flows, notifications, and more.
Unsurprisingly, it appears that Apple TV will likely support the CarPlay video feature when it launches, as there are additional references to interacting with the TV app while using CarPlay, such as a message that would pop up informing users that they will need to subscribe to Apple TV on their iPhone while not driving if they attempt to access subscription content.
While the new code in iOS 26.4 provides evidence that Apple is moving toward launching the feature, there are no guarantees that it will ultimately become available with the public release of the update, as Apple sometimes removes code found in early betas or continues building on it in subsequent updates before the features go live. And with car manufacturers needing to add support for it on their end, it's unclear how quickly CarPlay video will roll out across various makes and models once the feature does launch.Related Roundup: CarPlayRelated Forum: HomePod, HomeKit, CarPlay, Home & Auto TechnologyThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
A code snippet in iOS 26.4 shows Apple TV is coming to CarPlay A code snippet discovered in iOS 26.4 shows that CarPlay could gain an Apple TV app for playback while parked, though the implementation details aren't available.Apple TV is coming to CarPlayApple has quietly been adding video playback to CarPlay in iOS 26, but the feature requires the vehicle to be parked. Code discovered in the iOS 26.4 beta suggests that the Apple TV could be coming to the platform.According to the code shared by user Aaronp613 on X, users will be asked to log in to Apple TV via their iPhone for access to the app on CarPlay. It seems that this could mean that media playback is possible, but there will be obvious restrictions. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Twelve South Valet review: A bespoke catchall MagSafe charger that could be faster Twelve South's latest accessory is a bespoke, leather-laden valet that will charge your iPhone with an elevated MagSafe-compatible perch and is impressively customizable.Twelve South Valet review: A sleek leather catchall with MagSafe chargingLike it or not, chargers are a necessary evil in our lives. Realistically, they will likely remain so for the foreseeable future.When examining the available models on the market, which are numerous, several factors must be considered, including design and performance. Twelve South has mostly focused on the former with its new wireless charger. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Streaming VR games, experiences, & applications made easier in visionOS 26.4 Apple Vision Pro users could see more apps and games come to the platform thanks to NVIDIA CloudXR and the Foveated Streaming framework made available in visionOS 26.4.Apple Vision Pro game streaming will improve with new visionOS 26.4 frameworkIt has been two years since Apple Vision Pro debuted, but Apple is still working to get more developer support. The latest update found in visionOS 26.4 could mean more apps, games, and experiences for the platform in the near future.According to Apple's developer documentation, a new feature called Foveated Streaming is available with visionOS 26.4. It helps ensure processing power is saved by only rendering what the user is looking at in the highest resolution and limiting detail in the periphery. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
macOS Tahoe 26.4 adds a charge limit slider to preserve your MacBook battery The Mac just got an iPhone and iPad feature, as macOS Tahoe 26.4 includes a dedicated slider to adjust the battery charging limit.macOS 26.4 features a battery charge limit slider, like iOS 26.With the debut of the iPhone 15 range, Apple introduced an opt-in setting that limited battery charging to just 80%. The goal of the feature was to help preserve battery lifespan over time. iOS 18 gave iPhone users an additional option to limit battery charging anywhere from 80% to 100%.Now, macOS has gained the same battery-preserving capability, thanks to the first macOS 26.4 developer beta, released on Monday. The macOS Tahoe version of the feature works the same way it does on iOS, featuring a slider that lets users select a specific battery charging limit. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Apple Announces Unusual Multi-City “Apple Experience” for March 4 Apple has invited select media outlets to a “special Apple Experience” on March 4 in New York, London, and Shanghai—an unusual approach that has sparked speculation about rumored new MacBooks, the iPhone 17e, and more. We’ll know soon enough.
Formula 1 channel pops up in Apple TV, can't be removed Ahead of the season starting, the Formula 1 channel has popped up in the Apple TV app — and you can't edit, move, or delete it.A new Formula 1 element is available in the Apple TV app.Apple's push for sports-related content continues. Following the success of the "F1" movie and talk of a possible sequel, the iPhone maker has now updated the Apple TV application in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season.As part of Apple's partnership with Formula 1, all races will be available at no extra cost to Apple TV subscribers in the United States. Apple acquired the rights to Formula 1 content back in October 2025, and now there's a Formula 1 channel in the Apple TV app. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
macOS 26.4 brings battery Charge Limit to the Mac and Shortcuts The Charge Limit feature, which lets you set a maximum charge to help extend battery health, was previously only available on iPhone and iPad.
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9to5Mac Daily: February 16, 2026 – New Apple hardware is imminent Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players.
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Everything New in iOS 26.4 Beta 1 Apple today provided developers with the first beta of an upcoming iOS 26.4 update, which adds quite a few new features to the iPhone. There's a video podcasts feature, updates to Stolen Device Protection, end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, an Apple Music tool for generating playlists, and much more.
We've rounded up everything we've found that's new in the first beta of iOS 26.4. The beta is limited to developers right now, but Apple should release a public beta in the next couple of weeks. iOS 26.4 is expected to launch this spring.
Playlist Playground
Apple Music has a new Playlist Playground feature that lets users create a playlist with a text-based prompt.
In the Apple Music app, there's an option to type in an idea and get automatic song suggestions for a playlist. Apple has some pre-set suggestions that include "morning coffee music," "hip-hop party songs," and "disco songs that defined the 1970s," but you can type in any idea, mood, or feeling.
From there, the Playlist Playground feature will automatically generate a list of 25 songs, along with a custom title. Playlists that you create can be customized further with additional text prompts, and you can select a cover and a description.
Apple Music
Apple Music features a "Concerts Near You" feature that helps you find shows in your area and tour dates for artists that you're a fan of.
Apple has redesigned albums and playlists, adding full-page artwork.
Apple Podcasts
With iOS 26.4, Apple is adding video podcast capabilities to the Apple Podcasts app. The feature uses HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) to provide podcast creators with "unprecedented control and monetization opportunities" while also providing a high-quality viewing experience.
The iOS 26.4 Podcasts app will let users switch between watching and listening to shows, with videos able to be downloaded for offline viewing. HLS ensures smooth playback regardless of network connection, so videos will work on Wi-Fi or cellular. Apple says that the new video episodes will integrate with existing Apple Podcasts features, including personalized recommendations and editorial suggestions in the New and Category sections.
Stolen Device Protection
Stolen Device Protection is now enabled by default for all iPhone users, rather than being an opt-in feature.
Apple implemented Stolen Device Protection back in 2023 after reports about a new iPhone theft method. Thieves would spy on an intended victim to learn their passcode, then steal the target's iPhone. With the passcode, criminals were able to empty bank accounts, access passwords, and turn off Find My.
Stolen Device Protection requires additional authentication through Face ID or Touch ID to access certain iPhone features like the Passwords app, Lost mode in Find My, Safari purchases, and more. Some features are disabled entirely without authentication, while others have a one-hour security delay.
End-to-End RCS Encryption for Messages
With iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4, Apple is testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages, a security feature that is not currently available for cross-platform messaging.
Apple has been working with the GSM Association to implement E2EE for RCS messages. iMessage, the messaging protocol for sending texts between iPhones, has long supported end-to-end encryption. RCS messages between Android devices have also featured E2EE, but there was no full encryption for Android to iPhone (or vice versa) communications. With the addition of E2EE for RCS, messages between iPhone users and Android users will eventually be just as secure as iMessage.
Messages sent by RCS that have end-to-end encryption will feature a lock icon in the conversation interface. As of right now, Apple is testing iPhone-to-iPhone RCS encryption, with the feature set to roll out for iPhone and Android conversations in a future iOS 26 update.
Messages that feature E2EE will feature a lock icon in the conversation UI, both for iMessages and RCS Messages.
Messages App
There are new animations in the Messages app for actions like launching a new conversation.
Apple Account Unified Design
In the App Store, Apple Music, and other apps that have user settings, there is a new unified Apple Account hub that replaces the existing profile feature.
It offers largely the same functionality as the prior profile settings for each app, but there is a new unified design.
The App Store merges apps and purchase history, and has a dedicated section for app updates. It now takes two taps to get to app updates rather than having them available at the bottom of the profile page.
The App Store's navigation bar also no longer features Search as a separate button, and the search bar itself is at the top when tapped rather than the bottom.
Ambient Music Widget
There is a new Ambient Music widget for the Home and Lock Screen. It supports playing different built-in ambient music options for sleep, productivity, wellbeing, and more.
Wallpaper and Watch Face Gallery
The Wallpaper Gallery has an updated design that allows Wallpapers from each category like Weather, Astronomy, Emoji, Colors and More to be downloaded to the iPhone.
The Watch Face Gallery in the Apple Watch app also features the same design change.
Freeform Creator Studio
Freeform Creator Studio is live in iOS 26.4, allowing Creator Studio subscribers to access new Freeform features. Creator Studio for Freeform adds a dedicated Content Hub that houses the Freeform shape options.
Creator Studio users will be able to access free, high-quality content like graphics, photos, and illustrations that are not available to non-subscribers, plus there are AI capabilities for creating and editing images.
When Creator Studio launched, Apple said the premium content and features in Freeform would be coming to the Apple Creator Studio subscription later this year.
Freeform also has a new icon.
Reminders
The Reminders app has a new "Urgent" section. Reminders that have Urgent toggled on during creation will show up here. Urgent ensures that reminders have an accompanying alarm so you get a clear warning when a reminder is due.
iCloud Web Settings
In the iCloud section of the Settings app, there's now an "iCloud.com" option if you scroll all the way to the bottom of the interface. It replaces the simple "Access iCloud Data on the Web" toggle that was previously available.
The setting includes a new "Allow Search" toggle that lets trusted Apple devices provide search results to iCloud.com.
New Emoji
There aren't new emoji in iOS 26.4, but code suggests that new characters will be introduced in a future beta. There are references to new emoji, and we are expecting several new emoji options.
Emoji characters that are coming include trombone, treasure chest, distorted face, hairy creature (aka Bigfoot or Sasquatch), fight cloud, apple core, orca, landslide, and ballet dancers.
Notification Forwarding for Third-Party Devices (EU)
In the iOS 26.3 beta, Apple tested a new "Notification Forwarding" setting that allows incoming notifications on an iPhone to be forwarded to a third-party wearable device like an Android smartwatch, but it was not included in the launch version of the software. It is back in the iOS 26.4 beta.
Notifications can only be forwarded to a single device at a time, so if Notification Forwarding is enabled with a third-party wearable, the Apple Watch won't be able to receive and display notifications.
Apple is adding notification forwarding to address antitrust complaints suggesting that third-party wearables should have the same access to notifications and other features as the Apple Watch. It is limited to the European Union.
Proximity Pairing - EU Only
In the iOS 26.3 beta, Apple also tested other Europe-only changes for third-party wearables, which were shared by the European Commission, such as Proximity Pairing.
Proximity pairing allows third-party devices to pair with an iOS device in an AirPods-like one-tap way by bringing an accessory close to an iPhone or an iPad. Proximity Pairing was not enabled in iOS 26.3, and it too may come in iOS 26.4.This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple Brings iPhone-Style Battery Charge Limits to the Mac in macOS Tahoe 26.4 The macOS Tahoe 26.4 beta that Apple released today includes a Charge Limit feature for the Mac. There is a new slider bar that lets Mac users select a charge level from 80 percent to 100 percent.
The Charge Limit is a setting that's available in addition to Optimized Battery Charging, and it can prevent a Mac from ever charging to 100 percent.
Apple's existing Optimized Battery Charging feature keeps a Mac from charging to 100 percent until it's needed for use, with the option using your daily charging routine to determine when to charge to full. While Optimized Battery Charging can help preserve battery life, it still regularly allows a Mac to charge to 100 percent.
The new Charge Limit feature is a hard restriction that keeps a Mac's battery at 80 percent, 85 percent, 90 percent, 95 percent, or 100 percent, giving users more control over the Mac's maximum charging level. Keeping a Mac's battery at 80 percent could increase battery longevity by preserving battery health over time.
Charge Limit can be enabled by opening up the System Settings app, going to Battery, and clicking on the "i" button next to Charging.
Apple's iPhones have had a charge limit feature since the iPhone 15 lineup launched in 2023.Related Roundup: macOS TahoeRelated Forum: macOS TahoeThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple Music Playlist Playground could be among first new AI features in iOS 26.4 A new Apple Intelligence feature could be coming to iOS 26.4 called Playlist Playground, which will allow users to generate playlists using selected songs or text prompts.Apple Music is going to get a new Apple Intelligence featureApple released the first beta for iOS 26.4 on Monday, but it didn't include the rumored Apple Intelligence improvements. Instead, it seems to contain a range of user-facing features, including HLS video podcast support in Apple Podcasts and other updates.Among the Apple Music updates was unused code discovered by Macworld, which highlights a potential incoming feature that could release along with iOS 26.4. It is for something called Playlist Playground, which could be tied to Apple's new Apple Intelligence push. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
The new F1 channel has appeared in the Apple TV app ahead of first race The new dedicated channel for Formula 1 has appeared in the Apple TV app, starting today. Users in the United States can now see a dedicated Formula 1 item in the sidebar, alongside the existing Apple TV originals and MLS tabs.
This channel is where Apple TV app subscribers will be able to stream all of the races, starting with the Melbourne Grand Prix on March 8. As a reminder, F1 is now included in the base Apple TV subscription in the United States ($12.99 per month or $99 per year).
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New in iOS 26.4 beta 1: Videos in Podcasts, Playlist Playground, RCS, more The first developer beta of iOS 26.4 is here, offering a new video experience for Apple Podcasts, support for testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, and much more.iOS 26.4 beta 1 includes a new video experience for Apple Podcasts, and support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging.On Monday, less than a week after iOS 26.3 made its way to the general public, Apple started the iOS 26.4 beta testing cycle. The iPhone software update has the build number 23E5207q, up from 23D127 on the public release of iOS 26.3.As a whole, iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 introduced a variety of changes, the most visible of which is Apple's controversial "Liquid Glass" design language. The following update, iOS 26.1, included new toggles for existing system features and additional customization options for Liquid Glass. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Compact Safari Tab Bar Returns in macOS Tahoe 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 The macOS Tahoe 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 betas that Apple released today reintroduce a compact Safari Tab Bar option for those who prefer that view option.
Apple removed the compact tab bar option with the launch of macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26.4, but there were Mac and iPad users who missed it.
The Safari app on Mac and the Safari section of the Settings app on iPad both now feature an option to toggle on the Compact Tab Bar as an alternative to the standard Separate Tab Bar.
macOS Tahoe 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 are limited to developers right now, but Apple should release public betas soon. The software is expected to launch in the spring.Related Roundup: macOS TahoeRelated Forum: macOS TahoeThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple's upgraded Siri is late but not lost — the real story is timing Apple's next-generation Siri still hasn't surfaced in shipping software, but the delay aligns more with staged rollout planning and strict reliability standards than with a stalled AI strategy.Apple is still teaching Siri to be a better assistantApple's long-promised Apple Intelligence overhaul of Siri still hasn't appeared in public builds, but the delay reflects deliberate pacing rather than a product in trouble.The company reset expectations in 2025, announcing that a more personalized Siri with deeper app integration would come in 2026. Since then, reports have suggested that the original spring target faced some testing challenges. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
macOS Tahoe 26.4 warns if your apps won't work when Rosetta 2 dies Beta testers of the new macOS Tahoe 26.4 are getting warned that their favorite Intel-only apps won't work in macOS 28, because Rosetta 2 is getting killed.Apple wants all apps to run on Apple Silicon natively by macOS 28 - Image source: AppleRosetta 2 was introduced as a way to allow apps made for Intel chips to continue working on Apple Silicon. Over five years after its introduction in November 2020, Apple's warning users that it is going away.As part of Monday's first developer beta build of macOS Tahoe 26.4, Apple has included a warning that tells users that some apps on their Mac will eventually stop working. In cases where users launch an app that relies on Rosetta 2, a warning will appear, advising that the app won't work when it pulls support for the translation layer. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
visionOS 26.4 unlocks new ‘foveated streaming’ feature for apps and games visionOS 26.4 beta 1 debuted today, and in addition to supporting Apple Podcasts’ new video features, the update also unlocks ‘foveated streaming’ for apps and games.
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Apple Music 'Playlist Playground' in iOS 26.4 Creates Playlists From Text Prompts The iOS 26.4 update that Apple is beta testing includes a new "Playlist Playground" feature in the Apple Music app that's designed to let users create a playlist with a text-based prompt.
In the Apple Music app, there's an option to type in an idea and get automatic song suggestions for a playlist. Apple has some pre-set suggestions that include "morning coffee music," "hip-hop party songs," and "disco songs that defined the 1970s," but you can type in any idea, mood, or feeling.
From there, the Playlist Playground feature will automatically generate a list of 25 songs, along with a custom title. Playlists that you create can be customized further with additional text prompts, and you can select a cover and a description.
The Playlist Playground is available in the iOS 26.4 beta, and you can get to it by opening up Apple Music, tapping into the Library, and tapping on the "+" button to create a new playlist. If it doesn't show up, you may need to restart your device or the Apple Music app.
Playlists can be shared and displayed on your profile, similar to standard playlists.
iOS 26.4 is limited to developers right now, but Apple will likely release a public beta in the near future. The software will launch in the spring.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Tag: Apple MusicRelated Forum: iOS 26This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
macOS Tahoe 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 add compact tab bar in Safari When macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26 launched last fall, they removed support for an optional Safari layout: the compact tab bar. Now, the feature is back in macOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 beta 1.
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Get ready for new Macs and iPads: Apple announces “Special Experience” on March 4 Apple has not confirmed whether you'll be able to watch live, but Ars will bring you the news.
iOS 26.4 beta 1: Here’s everything new iOS 26.4 beta 1 is now available in beta for developers. The update includes a ton of new features and changes for iPhone users. There are new changes to the Music app, Messages, Apple Podcasts, and much more. Head below for the full roundup of all the new features in iOS 26.4 beta 1.
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iOS 26.4 beta code teases ‘AI playlists’ for Apple Music Macworld
On Monday, Apple released the first beta of iOS 26.4 for developers. Unfortunately, today’s beta still doesn’t include the long-awaited AI-powered Siri, but it does come with another interesting AI-related new feature, especially if you’re an Apple Music subscriber.
The iOS 26.4 update not only brings a new interface for albums and playlists, but it also hints at a new AI playlist feature, which should become available soon. Read on as we detail what’s new in Apple Music with iOS 26.4 beta.
Updated interface for albums and playlists
The Apple Music app is getting another interface tweak following the major redesign introduced with iOS 26 last year. Now, when users are viewing an album or playlist, the background will follow the color of the artwork instead of solid white.
It’s not exactly a huge change, but it brings a breath of fresh air to Apple Music, making the experience a little more fluid and immersive.
Apple Music has new colorful backgrounds for albums and playlists in iOS 26.4.Foundry
Concerts near you
Here’s another small but interesting detail about Apple Music in iOS 26.4 beta. When you open the app for the first time after installing the update, a message says that Apple Music can now show upcoming concerts near you.
It’s unclear exactly how the feature works within Apple Music, but it’s likely be based on the same feature that already exists in the Shazam app (which is owned by Apple). With Shazam, users can view and save upcoming performances and ticket details as well as set reminders to be notified of tour dates.
You’ll be able to get tour information for your favorite artists in Apple Music’s iOS 26.4 update.Foundry
AI-generated playlists
But what really stands out in this update is a potential AI playlist feature. The feature is included in the iOS 26.4 beta code, but doesn’t seem to be enabled for users yet.
Based on the code discovered by Macworld, Apple Music subscribers will have access to “a new way to make playlists” using Apple Intelligence. The feature, called “Playlist Playground,” will generate playlists based on text prompts or even on the selection of at least 10 different songs.
Users can describe what kind of songs they want in a playlist, which artists they want to listen to, or simply what vibe they like best. The code suggests that Playlist Playground is also capable of editing old playlists.
Whether Playlist Playground will use Apple Intelligence or a third-party AI provider is unclear. For instance, Apple has already partnered with OpenAI to provide playlist generation on Apple Music through ChatGPT.
Given that the feature is hidden in the iOS 26.4 beta code, it seems very likely that the feature will be officially unveiled in an upcoming beta.
When to expect iOS 26.4?
iOS 26.4 beta also adds other new features, including encrypted RCS messages and video episodes on Apple Podcasts. Apple says the update will be released to the public this spring.
iOS 26.4 beta adds new ‘Playlist Playground’ AI feature for Apple Music Apple released the first beta of iOS 26.4 for developers today, and it includes a new Apple Intelligence feature for Apple Music.
Dubbed “Playlist Playground,” this feature lets you create playlists based on text descriptions.
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iOS 26.4 has iPhone Stolen Device Protection on by default Three years after the feature rolled out, Apple is automatically enabling Stolen Device Protection in iOS 26.4, expanding safeguards against an ever-expanding epidemic of iPhone theft.How to use Stolen Device ProtectionIn 2023, Apple rolled out a new feature called Stolen Device Protection. The feature is designed to prevent iPhones from being accessed if a thief manages to both learn a user's passcode and steal their iPhone.This was a crucial change, as more and more reports rolled in, showing that this type of theft was on the rise. An experienced thief could easily access a user's list of passwords, access bank accounts, and disable safety features such as Find My and Trusted Devices. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Microsoft Office for Mac 16.106 Brings updates to Excel and Outlook. ($179.99 new for one-time purchase, $99.99/$129.99 annual subscription options, free update, macOS 13+)
SoundSource 6.0.4 Updates the audio control utility to be more responsive during launch and changes to the system output device. ($49 new, free update, 52.3 MB, macOS 15+)
macOS Tahoe 26.4 Displays Warnings for Apps That Won't Work After Rosetta 2 Support Ends macOS Tahoe will be the last version of macOS that supports Intel-based Macs, with Apple planning to phase out Intel Macs entirely following its transition to Apple silicon.
Apple today reminded developers and users that future versions of macOS will not support Intel machines, and Rosetta 2 support for apps will end after macOS 27.
Starting with macOS Tahoe 26.4, when users launch an app that uses Rosetta 2, there will be a popup letting them know that the app will no longer work when support for Rosetta 2 ends.
Apple says that it will continue to support older, unmaintained gaming titles with Rosetta along with software running Intel binaries in Linux VMs beyond macOS 27. There could also be future security fixes.
Apple first announced plans to stop supporting Intel Macs with new versions of macOS back in June 2025 when it debuted macOS Tahoe at WWDC.
Apple started its transition to Apple silicon with the 2020 launch of the M1 Mac machines, and three years ago, the company completed the transition to Apple silicon with the Apple silicon Mac Pro.
macOS 27 will launch in September 2026, so the end of support for Intel-based Macs is approaching.This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Fantastical 4.1.8 and Cardhop 2.4.5 Now prefers Microsoft Graph over Exchange Web Services for newly-added Microsoft 365 accounts. ($56.99 annual subscription, free update, various sizes, macOS 12+)
macOS 26.4 will notify users of Rosetta 2 discontinuation Last June at WWDC25, Apple announced that Rosetta 2, the software that translates Intel apps for Apple silicon, would be discontinued starting after macOS 27. Now, Apple will begin notifying users of apps that will soon be incompatible.
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iOS 26.4 will activate key theft prevention feature on all iPhones iOS 26.4 is the next big iPhone software release, and Apple plans to enable a key security feature by default in the update.
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Apple Releases New Public Beta Firmware for AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 Apple today released new public beta firmware for the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4. The firmware is limited to developers and public beta testers at the current time, and it has a build number of 8B5034f. Apple first provided this firmware last week, but it was only available to developers at the time.
Apple today started testing iOS 26.4, so it's possible the new firmware includes features related to the iOS 26.4 beta.
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 beta testing.
Developers and public beta testers can use the beta option to turn on beta downloads.This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Video won't kill the Apple Podcasts star, but will make them more engaging Apple Podcasts is no longer just an audio app, as native adaptive video and dynamic video ads will be available soon for creators to really show their stuff.Apple Podcasts is getting more video contentApple is introducing native video playback powered by HTTP Live Streaming, or HLS. The update brings adaptive streaming and dynamic video ad insertion directly into the app.You can watch video episodes inside Apple Podcasts and switch easily between listening and viewing. The app supports a horizontal full-screen view, and you can download episodes for offline playback. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Mimic – real-time insider & congressional trade tracker for iOS. Looking for 100 beta testers. Hey All I've been building Mimic, an iOS app that tracks insider trading (SEC Form 4 filings) and congressional trading (STOCK Act disclosures) in a single, clean feed. Quick rundown: Real-time data from 40+ major stocks Tracks 430+ insiders and politicians 7,900+ trades in the database and growing Cluster buy alerts when multiple insiders converge […]
Apple just gave AirPods Pro 3 and more new beta firmware [U] Apple has new beta firmware available today for AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4. Here are the details.
Update 2/16/26: The firmware shipped to developers on February 12, but now today on February 16, public beta testers received the same AirPods update.
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MagSafe Monday: Hands-on with The Ridge’s 5-in-1 Magnetic Power Bank Ridge is best known for its minimalist wallets, but it’s now taking a crack at the MagSafe industry as well. I came across this battery through a social media ad and purchased it right away. The Ridge 5-in-1 Magnetic Power Bank aims to be the best all-around battery with great colors, built-in cables, and more.
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iOS 26.4 beta is out with no sign of the new Siri Macworld
After Apple released iOS 26.3 last week, we were anticipating the first beta release of iOS 26.4 with bated breath. That’s because rumors for the better part of a year have pointed to this update as the one to bring the revamped Siri that has been expected since 2024. However, after a rumor last week dampened those expectations considerably, it looks like iOS 26.4 will be another minor update as Apple continues to polish Siri.
iOS 26.4 beta: New features
We won’t know all of the new features and changes to expect in iOS 26.4 until the final version is released to users sometime in late March or Aoril. We’ll update this section with new features as we discover them.
New video podcast experience: Apple has announced that iOS 26.4 will enable HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology in the Podcast app to “switch seamlessly between watching and listening to shows.”
RCS end-to-end encryption: It’s taken about a year, but Apple will finally encrypt RCS messages to and from Android phones in iOS 26.4.
Stolen Device Protection: The feature introduced in iOS 17.3 will now be enabled by default starting with iOS 26.4.
Freeform: Apple’s whiteboarding app has gotten its Creator Studio update with new features and a new icon.
iOS 26.4 beta: How to install the public beta
If you want to test the iOS 26 beta releases but are not a registered developer, follow these steps:
Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID.
Log in to the Beta Software Program.
Click Enroll your iOS device.
Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update.
In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta.
It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update.
iOS 26.4 beta: How to install the developer beta
You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:
Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store.
Open the app.
Tap on Account.
Sign in using your usual Apple ID.
Find out everything you need to know about iOS 26 in our iOS 26 superguide.
RCS encryption surfaces in iOS 26.4 developer beta, but testing is extremely limited Apple has taken a small step toward securing cross-platform messaging, with early RCS encryption support now appearing in the iOS 26.4 beta. Just don't expect to get that much testing done right now.RCS support will be extended to include end-to-end encryptionWay back in March 2025, Apple announced that it would add support for end-to-end encryption to RCS messaging on iPhone. At the time, there were very few details about when the feature would be implemented.We got our first hint that the feature was, at the very least, being worked on in January. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Apple Music in iOS 26.4 has new design for albums, playlists, and more iOS 26.4 beta 1 launched today, and among its various changes, Apple Music introduces a new fullscreen design for albums and playlists, plus concert info and more.
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iOS 26.4 Enables Stolen Device Protection by Default for All iPhones Starting with iOS 26.4, Stolen Device Protection will be enabled by default and turned on for all iPhone users. Stolen Device Protection adds extra security in case of physical iPhone theft.
Apple implemented Stolen Device Protection back in 2023 after reports about a new iPhone theft method. Thieves would spy on an intended victim to learn their passcode, then steal the target's iPhone. With the passcode, criminals were able to empty bank accounts, access passwords, and turn off Find My.
Stolen Device Protection requires additional authentication through Face ID or Touch ID to access certain iPhone features like the Passwords app, Lost mode in Find My, Safari purchases, and more. Some features are disabled entirely without authentication, while others have a one-hour security delay.
Actions requiring Face ID or Touch ID to complete:
Viewing/using passwords or passkeys saved in iCloud Keychain
Applying for a new Apple Card
Viewing an Apple Card virtual card
Turning off Lost Mode
Erasing all content and settings
Taking certain Apple Cash and Savings actions in Wallet
Using payment methods saved in Safari
Using your iPhone to set up a new device
These actions do not have a passcode backup, so you can't use a passcode to avoid using Face ID or Touch ID.
Actions that have a 1-hour security delay, and require two biometric authentications:
Changing your Apple ID password
Updating select Apple ID account security settings, including adding or removing a trusted device, trusted phone number, Recovery Key, or Recovery Contact
Changing your iPhone passcode
Adding or removing Face ID or Touch ID
Turning off Find My
Turning off Stolen Device Protection
Prior to iOS 26.4, Stolen Device Protection had to be enabled manually in the Face ID and Passcode section of the Settings app. There is an option to remove security delays when the iPhone is in a familiar location, which allows full functionality at home but protection when out and about.
iOS 26.4 is limited to developers at the current time, but a public beta will be coming in the near future. Apple plans to release the update in the spring.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Related Forum: iOS 26This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
SwiftUI iOS 26 keyboard toolbar: how to get true native liquid-glass look + keyboard follow + small gap (like Journal/Reminders/Notes)? I’m building a journal editor clone in SwiftUI for iOS 26+ and I’m stuck on one UI detail: I want the bottom insert toolbar to look and behave like Apple’s own apps (Journal, Notes, Reminders): exact native liquid-glass styling (same as other native toolbar elements in the screen), follows the software keyboard, has the small […]
iOS 26.4 redesigns Wallpaper Gallery Apple just released the first iOS 26.4 beta, and it seems to feature a number of under-the-hood improvements. One change includes an overhauled Wallpaper Gallery system.
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BOG (Bogota) on 2026-02-18 THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Feb 18, 07:00 - 11:00 UTCFeb 16, 18:32 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in BOG (Bogota) datacenter on 2026-02-18 between 07:00 and 11:00 UTC.Traffic might be re-routed from this location, hence there is a possibility of a slight increase in latency during this maintenance window for end-users in the affected region. For PNI / CNI customers connecting with us in this location, please make sure you are expecting this traffic to fail over elsewhere during this maintenance window as network interfaces in this datacentre may become temporarily unavailable.You can now subscribe to these notifications via Cloudflare dashboard and receive these updates directly via email, PagerDuty and webhooks (based on your plan): https://developers.cloudflare.com/notifications/notification-available/#cloudflare-status.
Mac gamers are about to get a great new way to play PC games GameSir GameHub promises to revolutionize Mac gaming, granting access to a vast library of titles previously unavailable.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Apple Begins Testing End-to-End Encryption for RCS Messages in iOS 26.4 Beta Apple is testing secure messaging between Android and iOS devices with iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4. The updates introduce end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages, a security feature that is not currently available for cross-platform messaging.
Apple has been working with the GSM Association to implement E2EE for RCS messages. iMessage, the messaging protocol for sending texts between iPhones, has long supported end-to-end encryption. RCS messages between Android devices have also featured E2EE, but there was no full encryption for Android to iPhone (or vice versa) communications. With the addition of E2EE for RCS, messages between iPhone users and Android users will eventually be just as secure as iMessage.
Messages sent by RCS that have end-to-end encryption will feature a lock icon in the conversation interface. Carriers will need to add support for encryption, so it may take some time for E2EE to roll out to all iPhone and Android users. In iOS 26.4, Apple is testing iPhone-to-iPhone RCS encryption, and users will see a toggle for the feature in the Messages section of the Settings app. RCS encryption is on by default.
iMessages will also display a lock icon for feature parity in iOS 26.4.
E2EE for RCS will require Apple to update to RCS Universal Profile 3.0, which the GSMA published with Apple's input. Apple currently supports RCS Universal Profile 2.4.
RCS Universal Profile 3.0 will also add features for editing text messages, deleting text messages, and replying to specific messages inline during cross-platform conversations.
Apple released the first betas of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4 today, with the updates available for developers. Apple plans to launch the updates in the spring, but while E2EE is in testing, the full functionality is not expected until a later iOS 26 update.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Tag: RCSRelated Forum: iOS 26This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple Podcasts Getting Video Episodes in iOS 26.4 With iOS 26.4, Apple is adding video podcast capabilities to the Apple Podcasts app. The feature uses HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) to provide podcast creators with "unprecedented control and monetization opportunities" while also providing a high-quality viewing experience.
"Twenty years ago, Apple helped take podcasting mainstream by adding podcasts to iTunes, and more than a decade ago, we introduced the dedicated Apple Podcasts app," said Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Services. "Today marks a defining milestone in that journey. By bringing a category-leading video experience to Apple Podcasts, we're putting creators in full control of their content and how they build their businesses, while making it easier than ever for audiences to listen to or watch podcasts."
The iOS 26.4 Podcasts app will let users switch between watching and listening to shows, with videos able to be downloaded for offline viewing. HLS ensures smooth playback regardless of network connection, so videos will work on Wi-Fi or cellular.
Apple says that the new video episodes will integrate with existing Apple Podcasts features, including personalized recommendations and editorial suggestions in the New and Category sections.
Creators are able to distribute through participating hosting providers and ad networks, with Acast, ART19, Omny Studio, and SiriusXM brands supporting HLS video at launch. Creators will be able to dynamically insert video ads for broader video advertising opportunities.
Podcasters can find more information on the new video feature through Apple's podcasts website. HLS video is available for testing today in the beta versions of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4. iOS 26.4 will be released in the spring.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Tag: Apple PodcastsRelated Forum: iOS 26This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
First iOS 26.4, macOS Tahoe developer betas surface as new Siri waits in the wings Apple has started a brand new generation of developer betas, with iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4 expected to include a Siri update.Apple's hardware that works with the 26-generation operating systems - Image Credit: AppleFollowing the release of the 26.3 generation of updates, Apple has moved on to the version 26.4 updates. That means a brand new collection of developer beta builds it is sharing for testing.The developer betas for iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4 arrive after the previous generation, which consisted of three developer betas and release candidates, which Apple handed out on February 4. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Apple introduces a new video podcast experience on Apple Podcasts Apple today announced a transformative update coming to Apple Podcasts this spring that will bring advanced video podcast capabilities to the app.
Apple Podcasts app gaining ‘enhanced video podcast experience’ in iOS 26.4 As part of iOS 26.4, Apple is upgrading its Podcasts app to “bring advanced video podcast capabilities” to creators and listeners, Apple says. The new “enhanced video podcast experience” will allow users to seamlessly switch between viewing a video podcast and listening to the audio.
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iOS 26.4 beta adds support for testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging Apple added RCS support to iPhone with iOS 18.1, enabling richer cross-platform messaging between iPhone and Android users. This included things like typing indicators, read receipts, and high-resolution photo and video attachments.
Last March, Apple announced its plans to add support for end-to-end encryption for RCS messages.
Now, iOS 26.4 beta 1, which is rolling out today, adds an early way to test end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging on iPhone.
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Apple releases beta 1 for watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4 A new wave of Apple beta releases has just kicked off. Developer beta 1 is rolling out for tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and more.
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Apple releases macOS 26.4 beta 1, here’s what to expect Just days after releasing macOS 26.3, Apple is now rolling out the first beta version of macOS 26.4 for developers. Here’s what to expect.
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Apple Seeds First Betas of iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 to Developers Apple today seeded the first betas of upcoming iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 updates to developers for testing purposes, with the software coming less than a week after Apple released iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3.
Registered developers can download the betas from the Settings app on the iPhone or iPad by going to the General section and selecting Software Update.
iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 could be significant updates that will introduce several new features. We were counting on the betas to include the smarter, more personalized version of Siri that Apple first debuted at WWDC 2024, but Apple has apparently run into issues that could see some or all Siri features delayed until iOS 26.5 or iOS 27.
We could still get some new Siri capabilities, such as tools for generating images and searching the web.
The update is also expected to include new emoji characters, such as trombone, treasure chest, orca, landslide, and Bigfoot.
iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 are limited to developers at the current time, but Apple will likely release a public beta in the next week or two.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Related Forum: iOS 26This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
First macOS Tahoe 26.4 Beta Now Available for Developers Apple today provided the first beta of an upcoming macOS Tahoe 26.4 update to developers for testing purposes, with the update coming just a few days after Apple launched macOS Tahoe 26.3.
Developers can download the macOS Tahoe 26.4 update by opening up the System Settings app, selecting the General category, and then choosing Software Update. Beta Updates will need to be enabled, and a free developer account is required.
macOS Tahoe 26.4 could introduce some new Siri features, though at least some of the capabilities that we were expecting have been delayed. The update is also expected to introduce new emoji characters.
The beta is available to developers right now, but a public beta is expected in the next week or two.Related Roundup: macOS TahoeRelated Forum: macOS TahoeThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 is available now, here’s what to expect Apple has released iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 for developers, here’s what we’re expecting from the new beta software.
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Apple releases iOS 26.4 beta 1 for iPhone Apple has released the first iOS 26.4 beta for iPhone. While we originally expected iOS 26.4 to include upgraded Siri, it sounds like we won’t see those changes just yet.
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Apple Releases First watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4 and visionOS 26.4 Betas Apple today provided developers with the first betas of upcoming watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4 betas for testing purposes. The software comes a few days after Apple launched the 26.3 versions of each platform.
The software updates are available through the Settings app on each device, and because these are developer betas, a free developer account is required.
The updates are expected to introduce new emoji characters, plus there could be new Siri capabilities, but we don't know exactly what's in the software as of yet.
Apple will likely provide public beta testers with access to the tvOS 26.4 and watchOS 26.4 betas later this month, but visionOS 26.4 will remain limited to developers. The software updates will probably launch in mid-to-late March.This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
I gave Claude Code eyes — it can now see the SwiftUI previews it builds in 3 seconds I've been using Claude Code for SwiftUI work for a while now, and the biggest pain point has always been: the AI writes code it literally cannot see. It can't tell if your padding is off, if a color is wrong, or if a list is rendering blank. You end up being the feedback loop […]
iPad Pro rumored to not get major design changes for many years A new rumor claims Apple has no major redesign imminent for the iPad Pro, potentially leaving the flagship tablet in an extended cycle of incremental updates.iPad Pro might not see updates for a whileOn February 16, Instant Digital posted that Apple won't be redesigning the iPad Pro significantly for a while. The report indicates that Apple will stick to routine chip updates without making major changes to the device's design.The post states that the iPad Pro won't receive a major upgrade for years. The leaker attributes the pause to the high cost of OLED panels and limited sales growth following the last redesign.Instant Digital has had a mixed track record with Apple leaks on Weibo. Sometimes they share accurate details like the iPhone 16 camera control button, but other times they promote claims that aren't supported by the facts or what actually happens. Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Samsung’s cool new display feature might end up in a MacBook Macworld
Samsung is about to unveil its new lineup of flagship Galaxy S26 smartphones on February 25, and the most interesting and innovative feature appears to have caught Apple’s eye. According to a new report, Apple is looking to bring Samsung’s new Privacy Display tech to a future MacBook.
According to research firm Omdia (via Ice Universe), Samsung’s latest display tech isn’t expected to arrive in a MacBook until 2029, which is longer than the typical Apple rumor. Typically, reports like this target products launching within two years, but 2029 is probably more realistic given Apple’s development cycle.
#id6993588f57415 .jw-wrapper::before { content: "Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra privacy screen teaser" !important; }
Samsung announced the new feature on January 28, ahead of the launch of the next Galaxy line of phones. While privacy screens aren’t new, this next-gen tech allows users to “protect specific parts of your experience, such as notification pop-ups. It’s a tailored approach that you can fine-tune or switch off entirely, rather than a blanket one.”
The Korean tech giant has teased Privacy Screen as one of the flagship features of the Galaxy S26, noting that it took “five years of engineering, testing, and refining” to develop. A series of short videos shows things like a user’s PIN and notifications being hidden from someone trying to see the screen from an angle, and suggests it will be one of the phone’s main selling points. Ice Universe previously showed how the display will be used in practice.
Exclusive!The privacy screen on the Samsung S26 Ultra goes far beyond a global privacy mode. It also supports partial, localized privacy control.Here is how it works.You can apply privacy protection to only a specific part of the screen, for example a message notification… pic.twitter.com/RWJPtR0qc8— Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) January 28, 2026
It’s not hard to see how this could be even more useful on a laptop. While phones can easily be covered or moved out of someone’s line of sight, stopping someone from glancing at a MacBook screen is much more difficult, which is why Apple sells a third-party privacy screen from Kensington in its online store. For anyone using a MacBook in a cafe, on a train, or even in an office where you don’t want strangers or colleagues to see sensitive information, it could be a game-changer.
iPads, MacBook Air, and Apple TV — everything Apple has ever launched in March Historically, Apple's March has been oddly busy in recent years, but as the company teases its newest "special Apple experience" happening on March 4, 2026, here's a look back at what we've seen before, and what we might see this time.Apple used to deck out conference halls for its launches —- this time for the iPad 3That March 4, 2026 event is invitation-only one in New York, London, and Shanghai, and won't be streamed. It's being called an Apple Experience, too, which is the term the company used for the January 2026 event around the Apple Creator Studio .If this a product announcement, though, then there is a precedent for it. And while there weren't even any Apple March events at all until 2008, since then they have been wide-ranging. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Out of the park: The March 4 event may not be all that special Apple's next event is happening on March 4, it's not at Apple Park. In Apple's marketing world, location definitely matters.Apple Park, where most Apple events take placeWhenever Apple announces a new event and sends out invitations, the immediate thought is that it is for the launch of a new product. The rumor mill is then immediately scoured for potential items to launch at the event.What many industry observers don't immediately consider is where the event is taking place. The problem is, that historically has bearing on what Apple is about to say. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
EWR (Newark) on 2026-02-19 THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Feb 19, 09:00 - 17:00 UTCFeb 16, 16:30 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in EWR (Newark) datacenter on 2026-02-19 between 09:00 and 17:00 UTC.Traffic might be re-routed from this location, hence there is a possibility of a slight increase in latency during this maintenance window for end-users in the affected region. For PNI / CNI customers connecting with us in this location, please make sure you are expecting this traffic to fail over elsewhere during this maintenance window as network interfaces in this datacentre may become temporarily unavailable.You can now subscribe to these notifications via Cloudflare dashboard and receive these updates directly via email, PagerDuty and webhooks (based on your plan): https://developers.cloudflare.com/notifications/notification-available/#cloudflare-status.
JAX (Jacksonville) on 2026-02-18 THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Feb 18, 07:00 - 11:00 UTCFeb 16, 16:44 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in JAX (Jacksonville) datacenter on 2026-02-18 between 07:00 and 11:00 UTC.Traffic might be re-routed from this location, hence there is a possibility of a slight increase in latency during this maintenance window for end-users in the affected region. For PNI / CNI customers connecting with us in this location, please make sure you are expecting this traffic to fail over elsewhere during this maintenance window as network interfaces in this datacentre may become temporarily unavailable.You can now subscribe to these notifications via Cloudflare dashboard and receive these updates directly via email, PagerDuty and webhooks (based on your plan): https://developers.cloudflare.com/notifications/notification-available/#cloudflare-status.
Best Apple Presidents Day deals: AirPods, Apple Watch, MacBook, Watch bands, more The official Presidents Day sales are now live through today and we have now added even more Apple deals to the collection. Alongside Apple Watch Series 11 models at $100 off starting from $299 (prices are starting to jump, get in there while you can), we are also tracking $150 off AirPods Max, deals on AirPods Pro 3, and a host of discounts on official Apple Watch bands. From there, we have $100 off the most affordable Mac mini with 24GB of RAM, iPhone 16 Pro/Max units at up to $630 off, loads of accessories, and more waiting below.
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Apple May Leave iPad Pro Without Major Upgrades for Years Apple's iPad Pro is likely to be left for years without a major update, according to a reliable leaker.
The Weibo-based leaker, known as "Instant Digital," says that the iPad Pro will not have a major update for a prolonged period of time. The cost of the OLED panel now used in the device is unlikely to come down in price and the last major redesign apparently did not significantly stimulate sales growth.
While Apple may maintain a regular iteration cycle with the device, it apparently has no intention of pursuing significant upgrades such as ultra-slim borders around the display, the likes of which are available on rival high-end tablets.
In 2024, Apple introduced the first major redesign of the device since 2018. Apple added the M5 chip to it in October 2025, along with some minor connectivity upgrades.
The iPad Pro is likely to gain the M6 chip and iPhone 17 Pro-style vapor chamber cooling at some point toward the end of 2026 or in 2027, but there have been no other rumors about the future of the product line. Related Roundup: iPad ProTag: Instant DigitalBuyer's Guide: iPad Pro (Buy Now)This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple’s new Face ID smart doorbell could be a hit for one reason Apple is rumored to have five new Home products launching this year, one of which is a video doorbell with Face ID and smart lock integration. Here’s why the new product could prove a hit.
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Today in Apple history: Pismo PowerBook is a multimedia powerhouse On February 16, 2000, Apple unveiled the Pismo PowerBook. FireWire and expandability made it one of Apple's best laptops ever.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Apple Music and TikTok team up on new ‘Listening Party’ feature, more Apple Music and TikTok are teaming up two new features for the short-form video app. First, the companies are beta testing the ability to play a full song in the TikTok app using Apple Music. The two are also working on a Listening Party feature, allowing fans to listen to their favorite music together.
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Reboot: Apple TV, Ive style, and quantified cat poop Kicking off the weekly "Reboot" column here on AppleInsider, Apple TV got a bunch of high-profile show updates, Jony Ive's Ferrari design was previewed and landed with a mixed reception, and Malcolm deals with the weirdness of app-controlled cat toilets.Tom Hanks, a Jony Ive Ferrari design, and a robot cat toiletReboot is a new weekly column (editor's note, that will run on Sundays going forward) covering some of the lighter stories within the Apple reality distortion field from the past seven days.Let's get your week off to a good start, shall we? Enjoy your day off if you get one since I don't, and surely the mattress, car, and furniture sales associated with Presidents' Day can save you a few bucks. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Apple to hold ‘special Apple Experience’ media event on March 4th Apple has officially announced a "special Apple Experience" scheduled for March 4, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. ET. This in-person event will…
The post Apple to hold ‘special Apple Experience’ media event on March 4th appeared first on MacDailyNews.
AirTag 1 Gets Major Amazon Discount With 4-Pack at $64 Apple's first-generation AirTag 4-Pack has dropped to $64.00 this week on Amazon, down from the original price of $99.00. Free shipping options have a delivery estimate around February 21, while Prime members should be able to get it delivered a few days sooner.
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.
Overall, this is a solid second-best price on the AirTag 4-pack that's within $1 of the Amazon all-time low price. Amazon's stock on the first generation AirTag 1-Pack has begun dwindling now that the new second generation models are here, so anyone interested in this low price on the first gen 4-Pack should pick it up while it's still around.
$35 OFFAirTag 4-Pack for $64.00
Apple just debuted the all-new AirTag, featuring longer range for tracking items and a louder speaker. We haven't tracked any discounts on the new second generation models as of yet, so anyone who wants to save money should keep looking into the original models.
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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Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season!
Related Roundup: Apple DealsThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Seven new Macs will launch this year, here’s everything coming Apple has a packed lineup of 20+ new products launching this year, including a larger-than-usual batch of new Mac laptops and desktops. Here’s every new Mac rumored to be coming.
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Apple books special ‘experiences’ around the globe on March 4 Macworld
It might seem like there’s a new rumor every week about when Apple’s first major product launch will arrive (sorry, AirTag 2), and it looks like we may finally have a firm date. This morning, Apple sent out invitations to a “special Apple experience” on March 4 at 9am ET.
Apple generally holds product launches at 1pm ET at its headquarters in Cupertino, so this is definitely a unique event. So far, at least three events will take place in New York, London, and Shanghai, all coordinated to occur at the same time. There does not appear to be a keynote attached to it, but Apple is known to launch new products online at around that time.
The invitation includes a stylized Apple logo with three colors: yellow, green, and a bit of blue at the bottom. Just this week, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reported on a new low-cost MacBook in “fun colors,” so this could be a reference to that. The new machine is expected to use an iPhone processor and cost significantly less than $1,000.
Along with the new Macs, several products are rumored to be launching soon, including the iPhone 17e, iPad Air, entry-level iPad, M5 MacBook Air, and M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pro. Some of those products could arrive in the weeks leading up to the event.
The use of the word “experience” implies that the event will be an extended hands-on session with new products rather than a keynote. Apple recently held a similar “experience” in Los Angeles to show off its new Creator Studio, and has held similar events over the years to promote new products. It’s possible this event will showcase several new products that have released in the days and weeks leading up to March 4.
It’s unclear why Apple would choose to showcase new products in this way, but it’s possible there are just too many 2026 announcements to hold events for all of them. Among the products expected to arrive in early March, Apple also has a new smart home hub, a folding iPhone, and a touch-screen MacBook in the works, all rumored to arrive this year.
Russia SMS Carrier Maintenance – MegaFon THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Feb 18, 12:00 - 16:00 PSTFeb 16, 07:07 PSTScheduled - The MegaFon network in Russia is conducting a planned maintenance from 18 February 2026 at 12:00 PST until 18 February 2026 at 16:00 PST. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent delays delivering SMS to MegaFon Russia handsets.
After Ring privacy backlash, company abandons plans for police partnership Amazon’s plan to turn Ring doorbells into a neighborhood-wide surveillance system was roundly denounced as dystopian even when it was just searching for lost dogs.
The company does at least seem to have learned from the privacy backlash, announcing that it has now abandoned plans for a partnership with police …
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Get ready with the latest beta releases The beta versions of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, macOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and watchOS 26.4 are now available. Get your apps ready by confirming they work as expected on these releases. And make sure to build and test with Xcode 26.4 beta to take advantage of the advancements in the latest SDKs.View downloads and release notesLearn about testing a beta OSLearn about sending feedback
Madagascar SMS Carrier Partner Maintenance THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Feb 17, 22:00 PST - Feb 18, 00:00 PSTFeb 16, 06:37 PSTScheduled - Our SMS carrier partner in Madagascar is conducting a planned maintenance from 17 February 2026 at 22:00 PST until 18 February 2026 at 00:00 PST. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent delays delivering SMS to Telma Mobile Madagascar handsets.
Apple just announced its March event — here’s what could be coming Get ready for the Apple March event! We're looking forward to new MacBooks, iPads, an iPhone and possibly more announcements.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Security Bite: Russia completes block of Western social media and VPNs to push state-backed ‘Max’ super-app 9to5Mac Security Bite is exclusively brought to you by Mosyle, the only Apple Unified Platform. Making Apple devices work-ready and enterprise-safe is all we do. Our unique integrated approach to management and security combines state-of-the-art Apple-specific security solutions for fully automated Hardening & Compliance, Next Generation EDR, AI-powered Zero Trust, and exclusive Privilege Management with the most powerful and modern Apple MDM on the market. The result is a totally automated Apple Unified Platform currently trusted by over 45,000 organizations to make millions of Apple devices work-ready with no effort and at an affordable cost. Request your EXTENDED TRIAL today and understand why Mosyle is everything you need to work with Apple.
Amid the heap of regulatory crackdowns and digital media bans in recent years, it’s hard not to get further fatigued by the level of censorship underway in Russia. If the day ends in “y,” there’s seemingly something happening on this front. But last week, Russian authorities moved to complete the blocking of all major U.S.-based social media networks, in addition to restricting access to Telegram, to push the country’s own state-backed alternative.
There’s a dangerous, not-so-hot-take reason for that…
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iCloud tiers aren’t getting cheaper — 1TB of cloud storage 84%-off OnlineDrive lets you pay once and keep your storage for the long haul. The entry-level plan includes 1TB of cloud storage, with larger options available.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
iCloud tiers aren’t getting cheaper — get 1TB of cloud storage at 84% off Pay once and keep your storage for the long haul. The entry-level OnlineDrive plan includes 1TB of cloud storage (larger options available).
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Apple is having an event on March 4, maybe for iPhone 17e & M5 MacBook Pro It's not clear yet what this is for, but Apple is having an invite-only event not at Apple Park, but instead in New York City, on March 4. It might be time for all those M5 MacBook Pro, iPad, and iPhone 17e rumors to come true.Apple invite to New York CityWe're curious what this is about. Apple doesn't typically have big product releases in New York City. They want to show something off, that's for sure.As usual for an Apple Event announcement of any kind, the name and logo provide minimal clues for what Apple will actually unveil, and it's not clear what this is for. Whatever it does launch, you can expect the release dates to be within the weeks after the event itself. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Top 10 MacBook Air setups Our collection of the top 10 MacBook Air setups really shows why the sleek machine is the world's best-selling laptop.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Apple announces special event for March 4 in NYC Apple has announced a special event for next month, inviting members of the press to New York on March 4, 2026 at 9 a.m. ET. Apple is branding this as a “special Apple Experience” rather than your typical Apple event.
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'Tehran' producer Dana Eden dies during filming Dana Eden, a producer working on the Apple TV espionage drama "Tehran," has been found dead while filming for the show in Greece.Dana Eden at the second-season premiere of 'Tehran' - Image Credit: AppleFilming of the fourth season of spy thriller Tehran was underway when Eden was discovered in an Athens hotel on Sunday. Discovered by her brother, Eden's death is being treated as a suicide initially, with an investigation underway to determine what happened to her.Israeli public broadcaster Kan, which produces the show along with Apple TV, called Eden a senior figure in Israel's television industry, reports Deadline. She played a central role in creating some of Kan's major productions in her career. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Could the low-cost MacBook be the new iBook? The long-awaited low-cost MacBook powered by an A18 Pro chip is now expected to launch on March 4. It will reportedly be priced somewhere around $700, making it significantly cheaper than an entry-level MacBook Air.
Given that the upcoming machine is likely to meet the needs of a great many of those who currently opt for the MacBook Air, it could cannibalize a lot of sales. One possible solution to this is to use the strategy Apple once adopted with the iBook and Powerbook lineups …
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Apple Announces Special Event in New York on March 4 Apple today announced a "special Apple Experience" in New York, taking place on March 4, 2026 at 9:00am ET.
Apple invited select members of the media to the event. It is simply described as a "special Apple Experience," and there is no further information about what it may entail.
It is notable that Apple is specifically using the word "experience," rather than "event." Unlike a full live-streamed event from Apple Park, the March 4 event in New York is likely to be smaller in scale.
The announcement of several new Apple products is believed to be imminent, including the iPhone 17e, MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, eighth-generation, iPad Air, 12th-generation iPad, and more.
More to follow...This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
You shipped your iOS app. Now nobody can find it. Spent months building. Shipped to the App Store. Got like 10 downloads from friends and family. Sound familiar? I went through this with my own apps and realized I knew nothing about ASO (App Store Optimization). Here's what actually moved the needle: Your title is searchable real estate. You get 30 characters. "MyApp" wastes 24 […]
Publishing TestFlight builds without notifying testers Hi everyone, Is there a way to publish new builds without sending email or push notifications to testers? submitted by /u/barbq [link] [comments]
Government overreach must be fought said Apple, ten years ago today On February 16, 2016, Apple published a statement it knew would be criticized, and laid out the reasons it would not bow to unfair government pressure. We're apparently in a very different world today.The White House is dominating Apple Park — image credits: Apple and the White HouseTen years ago on February 16, 2016, Apple drew a line in the sand. The FBI had cleverly and even callously timed an attack on the firm to take advantage of public outrage over the San Bernardino shootings.Fourteen people had been murdered in a terrorist attack in California's San Bernardino in December 2015. By February 2016, then FBI director James Comey told senators that they had one of the killers' phones that they hadn't been able to open. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Dev Workspaces: Artem Novichkov This week in ! Some of us may have a beard, but he’s the only true Bearded Developer here. Don’t let your OpenClaw agent skip this one 😅. Since many Mac Minis are now running on most of them, take a look at the inspiring workspace — the apps and devices that […]
An AI Survival Guide for Curating Your Digital Inner Circle Rob Enderle explains how curating a small “inner circle” of specialized AI agents can boost productivity at home and in business, with a look at LG’s CLOiD home robot. The post appeared first on TechNewsWorld.
Future MacBooks may borrow a Samsung feature to solve an ironic privacy problem Samsung has introduced a new privacy feature to its Galaxy S26 Ultra smartphone, and a new report suggests that future MacBooks may adopt the same technology.
If so, it will be rather ironic as MacBooks were among the earliest laptops to benefit from a feature which can now sometimes be considered a bug …
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iOS 27 'Rave' Update to Clean Up Code, Could Boost Battery Life Apple's iOS 27 update will prioritize cleaning up the operating system's internals, with engineers making changes that could result in better battery life, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
The effort is said to be similar to what Apple did with its Snow Leopard Mac update years ago, and will involve removing old code, rewriting existing features, and subtly upgrading apps to improve their performance.
The result should hopefully be a "snappier, more responsive" OS, says Gurman. Apple is also reportedly planning some interface tweaks, but nothing as dramatic as the Liquid Glass overhaul introduced with iOS 26, which will likely comfort some users.
Code-named "Rave" internally, iOS 27 will also include efficiency improvements that Apple hopes will translate into tangible battery gains for users, says Gurman. However, it's unclear whether Apple would market those improvements or simply let users discover them on their own.
Gurman says getting the software into good shape is especially important as Apple prepares to launch new device categories, including a touchscreen MacBook Pro and its first foldable iPhone, both of which are expected in the second half of 2026.
The cleanup effort comes alongside Apple's other major iOS 27 priority of improving its AI capabilities. The revamped, chatbot-style Siri that Apple announced in June 2024 has been repeatedly delayed, and some of its features are now expected to arrive in iOS 27 rather than iOS 26, reports Gurman.
Tag: Mark GurmanThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Gurman: iPhone 18 Pro Could Be Underwhelming Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models "won't be a big update," according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
In the latest edition of his "Power On" newsletter, Gurman said that the iPhone 18 Pro models will "represent minor tweaks from last year's iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max." He compared the upgrade to Apple's past practice of appending the letter "S" to its more minor generational iPhone releases.
There will still apparently be several important internal changes, such as a new camera system with a variable aperture, the A20 chip, and the custom C2 modem. Nevertheless, the new Pro models likely won't be "the star of Apple's iPhone launch this fall," with the company's first foldable claiming the spotlight instead.
Related Roundup: iPhone 18Tags: Bloomberg, Mark GurmanRelated Forum: iPhoneThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Low-cost MacBook in ‘fun colors’ leads flurry of upcoming Mac releases Macworld
As we wait for new M5 MacBook Pros, Apple is reportedly prepping a brand new laptop that could launch within weeks. According to Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter, Apple’s long-rumored low-cost MacBook is expected to arrive “as early as March,” with a design that defies its price tag.
Gurman reports that the new laptop will cost “well under $1,000,” but won’t have a cheap plastic design. The new MacBook, according to the report, will have an aluminum chassis that introduces a new manufacturing process “designed to be both faster and more cost-effective than the one used with Apple’s current laptops.”
Along with the aluminum shell, Gurman reports that the new MacBook will be available in “playful colors,” a stark contrast from the silver, gold, and space gray hues offered for years on MacBook Air. Gurman floats several options, including yellow, light green, blue, and pink, but doesn’t expect all of them to ship. He doesn’t offer any details as to whether these colors will be bright or similar to the very light sky blue color offered for the M4 MacBook Air.
Back in 2021, Apple was rumored to be developing a MacBook in a variety of colors, but that machine never materialized. It’s unclear if this new low-cost MacBook is related to that rumor or a different project altogether.
Additionally, he reiterates the expectation that the new machine will run an iPhone chip and have a display that’s slightly smaller than the MacBook Air at “just under 13 inches.” The laptop has been tipped to cost as low as $699.
Along with the low-cost MacBook, Gurman reports that several other Macs are also due for release over the coming weeks, including the M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pro, M5 MacBook Air, and an M5 Max/M5 Ultra Mac Studio.
For the latest information on the low-cost MacBook, stay tuned to our superguide of rumors.
Which is more appealing to you – an iPhone Fold or an iPhone Flip? [Poll] When the first rumors of a folding iPhone emerged, we didn’t know which of the two possible formats Apple was planning: an iPhone Fold or an iPhone Flip.
It later became clear that what we’re expecting to be launched first is a book-style iPhone Fold. However, there are signs that we may get both …
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