Speechify launches Voice AI Assistant on iOS
After launching Voice Typing Dictation on the Mac last month, Speechify is continuing its push to become more than an AI text-to-speech platform. The company today released its Voice AI Assistant on iOS, after previously offering it only on Chrome and the web. Here are the details. more…

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Boring Pluribus merch doesn’t do brainy Apple TV show justice
Let's just say Sony Pictures' new "Pluribus" TV show apparel was not conceived and designed by Vince Gilligan. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Second developer betas for iOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3 have arrived
Following the year-end festivities, Apple is continuing its developer beta process, providing new second builds of iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, visionOS 26.3, and macOS Tahoe 26.3.Apple's hardware that works with the 26-generation operating systems - Image Credit: AppleThe second round for iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, visionOS 26.3, and macOS Tahoe 26.3 follows after the first, which landed on December 15, 2025.Unusually, since the first beta, Apple has issued background security updates for them, outside the usual update flow. It remains to be seen whether this will continue with future builds, or if it is just a test. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Google-parent Alphabet hits $4 trillion milestone, surpassing Apple in market value
Google-parent Alphabet Inc. has officially joined the elite $4 trillion club, becoming the newest tech giant to achieve this historic market… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Smart home at CES 2026 and HomeKit architecture deadline on the latest HomeKit Insider
On this week's episode of the HomeKit Insider podcast, we go through every Matter and Apple Home announcement from the show from many of the major brands — and there's a big HomeKit deadline coming up.HomeKit Insider PodcastHistorically, the CES episode is one of the most popular of the year for HomeKit Insider. It's a long episode, diving into all the major announcements and giving our opinions and first impressions on the devices we got to see in person.Before getting into the CES news, we went through the couple of new items that managed to eke out that weren't directly related to the annual tech show. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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tvOS 26.3 and watchOS 26.3 beta 2 now available, plus more
Apple has just released developer beta 2 for tvOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, HomePod 26.3, and more. more…

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macOS Tahoe 26.3 beta 2 now available, here’s what to expect
Kicking off the 2026 beta period, Apple is rolling out today macOS 26.3 beta 2 for developers, alongside beta 2 releases for iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and more. Here’s what’s new. more…

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Apple releases iPadOS 26.3 beta 2 for iPad
iPadOS 26.3 is the next iPad software update, and Apple has just released developer beta 2 of the forthcoming release. Here’s what to expect. more…

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Apple releases second iOS 26.3 beta for iPhone
Apple has released the second iOS 26.3 beta for iPhone. The first beta introduced an easier way to switch between Android and iPhone, tweaks to the Astronomy and Weather wallpaper gallery, and more. more…

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Speed up your Mac workflow with Hot Corners, the feature pro users swear by [Pro Tip]
Hot Corners on the Mac work like shortcuts for your mouse. Just throw your mouse cursor to the corner of the screen to trigger a shortcut. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Apple chooses Google’s Gemini over OpenAI’s ChatGPT to power next-gen Siri
Apple goes with Google's tech despite using OpenAI's ChatGPT elsewhere in iOS.

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Apple Podcasts is officially more popular than it’s ever been
Today Apple published updates on a variety of services’ 2025 performance, and one of the most surprising details for me involved Apple Podcasts. more…

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A case maker might have leaked the iPhone Fold design
Macworld This year’s biggest Apple launch is likely to be the iPhone Fold, the company’s first ever foldable smartphone. And we’re starting to get a good idea of what to expect: last week we got our first glimpse of the device’s screen, and now you can look at its entire design. Allegedly. A Turkish manufacturer has posted to Instagram imagery of what it claims is the mold for the iPhone Fold. This means the metal cast of a device that case makers use to make sure their cases fit the final design. Apple notoriously doesn’t share dimensions of new iPhones with third-party case makers, but manufacturers have their ways of getting their hands on the exact specs to make sure they’re available on day one. View this post on Instagram Based on the post, the iPhone Fold will be roughly the size of an iPhone mini when closed, and roughly the size of an iPad mini when unfolded. It appears to have two rear-facing camera lenses (a major improvement on the iPhone Air, which the Fold is expected to follow, design-wise) in a straight rather than diagonal configuration. Interestingly, when viewed from the side, the mold doesn’t give any indication of a Plateau, just a normal protruding camera module as on the 16-series generation of iPhones. There’s also a circular element on the back that appears to indicate the inclusion of MagSafe. Needless to say, companies who are trusted with Apple’s secrets and then plaster those secrets all over social media won’t remain trusted very long, and having access to pre-launch details is a huge competitive advantage. So this sort of thing is relatively rare, and usually the result of a mistake or the actions of a disgruntled employee. Partly because of the language barrier, and partly because all we get is a brief video, it’s unclear how this particular unit is alleged to have escaped into the wild (the caption of the video, via Google Translate, reads only “iPhone Fold is the first and only in the world together with its case”), but it would be deeply odd for an accessories maker to receive an official mold from Apple and then publicize that online. Which suggests either the company obtained it from elsewhere or it’s a convincing fake. Either way, we’d advise skepticism. For all the latest news and rumors as we head to the big launch, bookmark our regularly updated iPhone Fold superguide.

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'SnowRunner' on Mac crashes, not getting any new updates or content
It's the end of the road for "SnowRunner" on Mac — it remains playable for Apple gamers but it is no longer receiving updates or expansions."SnowRunner" game on MacSnowRunner is an off-road vehicle simulation game centered on hauling cargo through mud, snow, and extreme terrain using heavy trucks. The game prioritizes physics-driven driving, route planning, and cooperative multiplayer over speed or racing.For Apple users, the game remains on sale even though active development on macOS has ended. Saber Interactive hasn't issued a formal end-of-life announcement for the platform. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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HomePod rumors: All we know about HomePod mini 2, HomePod+screen & HomePad hub
Macworld Apple’s HomePod lineup may be on the verge of its biggest shake-up since launch. A long-awaited HomePod mini 2 is rumored to be in development, potentially bringing updated internals and new colors, but it may only be the first step in a broader smart-home push. Alongside a refreshed HomePod mini, Apple is widely believed to be working on a full-size HomePod with a built-in display, designed to address long-standing usability issues by offering a touchscreen alternative to Siri. Beyond that, reports suggest Apple could introduce an entirely new category of device: a HomePod-based smart hub, sometimes referred to as the HomePad or HomeHub, combining a speaker, display, and advanced home-control features. In this article, we round up all the latest rumors and reports surrounding Apple’s upcoming HomePod products, from expected release timelines and hardware upgrades to Apple Intelligence features and potential pricing, covering everything Apple may have planned for the future of its smart speakers and home hubs. HomePod mini 2: Rumors & release date Rumored release: Spring 2026 Possible changes: New red color, major processor upgrade, improved connectivity Apple introduced the original HomePod mini in November 2020, making it long overdue for an update. In a January 2025 report, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested that a new HomePod mini could arrive toward the end of 2025. He later reiterated this expectation in an August 2025 newsletter, referencing Apple code that briefly appeared, and was then withdrawn, which included identifiers for unreleased devices, reportedly including a new HomePod mini. Gurman wrote: “The findings corroborate a lot of what I’ve reported, including that fresh Apple TV and HomePod mini models will arrive this fall.” As of now, however, no new HomePod mini has launched. Current rumors point to a 2026 release instead, with delays attributed to ongoing software development challenges related to Siri and Apple Intelligence. Foundry HomePod mini 2: Design, features & specs In September 2025, Gurman reported that Apple had tested a new red color option for the HomePod mini 2. Beyond cosmetic changes, the update is expected to focus primarily on internal improvements. The overall design is likely to remain largely unchanged, but the internal hardware is expected to receive a meaningful refresh. The HomePod mini has not seen a hardware update since its debut, and Apple is reportedly keen to modernize it to support upcoming software features. The most consistent rumors point to a faster processor and improved connectivity. As Gurman noted in August 2025: “We don’t know what, if anything, will be new with the speaker other than a faster chip, though Apple will likely keep the same design.” Additional rumored upgrades include: Apple Intelligence Support: The new model is expected to feature a chip capable of supporting Apple Intelligence, which would allow it to benefit from Apple’s upcoming AI-enhanced Siri. Improved Connectivity: Possible inclusion of Apple’s in-house N1 networking chip, potential Wi-Fi 6E support, and an upgraded U2 Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip for more seamless Handoff functionality. Audio Enhancements: Some reports indicate the speaker could receive upgraded drivers for better sound quality and potentially official support for spatial audio/Dolby Atmos, a feature currently restricted to the full-sized HomePod. See: Five upgrades the HomePod mini needs. Hardware Refinements: There is also speculation that Apple might introduce a removable power cable, similar to the 2nd-gen HomePod, to improve repairability. HomePod 3 with screen: Rumors & release date Possible launch: Spring 2026 Display size: Between 6 and 7-inches Software: Custom touchscreen operating system The HomePod mini has a larger sibling and even bigger things are rumored for that model. Foundry and Apple One of the HomePod’s biggest limitations is its reliance on Siri, which still struggles with complex commands. Many users end up controlling the speaker via their iPhone instead, which can be inconvenient and drain battery life. A built-in screen could provide a more direct and reliable way to interact with the device. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple has been working redesigning the HomePod to include a display for some time. In March 2023, Kuo claimed Apple would “unveil a redesigned HomePod featuring a 7-inch panel.” That would put it not far off the 8.3-inch iPad mini, and would allow the HomePod to compete more directly with devices like the Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub. The screen would reportedly support multitouch and enable richer interactions. Kuo initially expected this product to arrive in the first half of 2024, but that timeline slipped. In December 2024, he reported further delays, pushing the launch to after WWDC 2025, citing software development challenges. In March 2025, Kuo suggested the device had been delayed again, partly due to Apple Intelligence setbacks and the need to align the launch with other new Apple products. Current speculation suggests a possible release in the first half of 2026, potentially around March or April, alongside major updates to Siri and Apple’s AI platform. HomePod with display incoming?Foundry HomePod with screen: Design, features & specs Unlike current HomePods, which rely on a small LED surface for controls and animations, this model is expected to feature a full display capable of showing useful information and acting as a touchscreen control interface. As noted in Odd iOS 26 phrasing hints at new HomePod with screen, the wording in recent software suggests Apple is planning a HomePod “with a proper screen” that could compensate for Siri’s current limitations. As with the HomePod mini 2, the display-equipped HomePod is expected to feature a chip capable of supporting the AI-enhanced Siri, but it will also need to support a custom touchscreen operating system, possibly derived from tvOS. Given the demands of such a touchscreen interface and advanced software, this would likely mean A-series or even M-series silicon, possibly an A17 Pro. Other expected features include: Specs: Apple’s N1 networking chip, Wi-Fi 6E support, and an upgraded U2 Ultra Wideband chip for improved device handoff. Modular design: Some rumors point to a modular design, where a screen-based hub could magnetically dock onto a full-size HomePod speaker. This could allow the device to function as a stationary high-fidelity speaker while also supporting FaceTime calls and smart home management. Display: The display is widely rumored to measure around 7-inches, putting it in direct competition with smart displays from Amazon and Google. Amazon Echo Show beside the HomePod mini, Ben Patterson/Foundry Some time ago Swiss website Handy Abovergleich and designer Eric Huismann created a series of concept illustrations of how this new generation of HomePod could look. Here’s how they imagine the HomePod Show—a speaker with a camera and a small touchscreen—could look. Foundry However, this updated HomePod could offer a lot more than a screen to tap when you want to choose a playlist or skip a track. There are rumors that suggest putting a screen on HomePod could transform it into a new device entirely. HomePad smart hub rumors & release date Possible launch: Late 2026 Strategy: Brand new category of products Apple has reportedly been exploring a broader smart home strategy for years, and the HomePad could be its most ambitious step yet. As far back as April 2021, Mark Gurman described a high-end device combining a HomePod speaker, a touchscreen, and a camera mounted on a robotic arm that could follow the user around the room during video calls. Gurman has made various references to this over the years. Reports suggest Apple may be planning multiple smart home hub products, potentially split into two tiers: Low-end smart display (J490): A stationary device with an approximately 7-inch screen, designed for wall mounting or docking. It would focus on HomeKit control and FaceTime calls. High-end robotic hub (J595): A more advanced version featuring a display mounted on a robotic arm. This “Luxo Jr.-like” device could function as a videoconferencing system and home security tool, though it may not arrive until late 2026 or even 2027. A revamped, AI-powered Siri is expected to be central to the experience – and its ongoing development is widely believed to be the main reason these products have yet to launch. Imagen 3 (Gemini) HomePad smart hub: Design, features & specs Speculation regarding the HomePad’s internal specifications and software capabilities includes: Processing Power: Internal code suggests the device, codenamed J490, may be powered by the A18 chip, which is capable of supporting advanced Apple Intelligence features. Operating System: The hub will likely run a version of TVos that incorporates iOS-like features. For instance, the inclusion of the “ChatKit” framework in recent software betas suggests the HomePad may support iMessage and texting, features not currently available on Apple TV or standard HomePods. Kitchen Integration: A new “CookingKit” framework and expanded food sections in Apple News indicate that kitchen assistance, such as searching for recipes by ingredient, could be a primary selling point. Entertainment: Beyond home control, the device is expected to function as an entertainment hub for streaming music and video, as well as making FaceTime calls via a built-in camera. Advanced Home Control: Code found in the iOS 26 Home app describes an “Adaptive Temperature” feature, which could allow the HomePad to offer more granular control over smart thermostats, including energy-saving optimizations based on local electricity rates. Camera: There are suggestions that the device could combines a HomePod with a camera, or place a camera on a robot arm. This camera could also be used to recognize gestures. Some years ago a patent was filed that related to a future HomePod that could interpret 3D hand gestures. That patent describes a HomePod that can “interpret three-dimensional hand gestures as a means of controlling the device so as to execute an action or function.” New HomePod prices The current prices for the HomePods are as follows: HomePod: $299/£299 HomePod mini: $99/£99 We don’t expect prices to change for the existing configurations. The HomePod mini is likely to remain at the sub-$100 price point. However, a HomePod with a built-in screen could command a higher price. It may launch as a separate product altogether, potentially starting around $399 / £399, or higher, depending on features.

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Google confirms that it won't get Apple user data in new Siri deal
While Siri will soon use Google Gemini tech for its Apple Intelligence features, Google itself has confirmed that it will operate under Private Cloud Compute and Apple's rules.Google Gemini on an iPhoneThe news that Apple and Google have signed a deal for the latter's Gemini AI technology to be used in Apple Intelligence, has been a long time coming. But it's also being immediately misreported as Apple ceding to Google Gemini instead of continuing with its own Siri.Initial reports did quote Apple as saying that Gemini would be used with its Apple Foundation Models. However, Google has now publicly confirmed that, and also gone further. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Anker’s adorably portable UFO-styled triple-charging pad is half off today
Macworld I don’t know about you, but I love having a way to charge all my gear in one place, especially if it doesn’t take up a ton of space. This Anker MagSafe UFO 3-in-1 charging pad is the perfect solution, esecially now that it’s half off right now. Over at Amazon’s Woot, you can get one for just $45, the best price we’ve ever seen. In one pocketable package, you get a 15W charging pad for super-fast wireless power, a fast-charging pad for your Apple Watch, and space for your AirPods case too. The iPhone charger will get your phone from 0 to 20 percent in just 15 minutes, great for quick on-the-go fill-ups. Whether you’re charging at your desk, keeping it on your nightstand, or throwing it in your bag to charge on the go, Anker’s UFO charger is ready for it. For $45, this Woot deal for the Anker MagGo UFO charging pad is unmissable, so hurry up before it expires. Plus, since Woot is an Amazon company, your Prime delivery perks will cover 2-day shipping. So go grab one before the sale ends. Buy now at Woot

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Why It Is Difficult To Resize Windows on MacOS 26
The dramatically larger corner radius Apple introduced in macOS 26 Tahoe has pushed the invisible resize hit target for windows mostly outside the window itself -- roughly 75% of the 19Ã--19 pixel clickable area now lies beyond the visible boundary. In previous macOS versions, about 62% of that resize target would fall inside the window corner. Apple removed the visible resize grippy-strip from window corners in Mac OS X 10.7 Lion in July 2011. The visual indicator had served two purposes: showing users where to click and signaling whether a window could be resized at all. Users since then have relied on muscle memory and the reasonable assumption that clicking near the inside corner would initiate a resize. DaringFireball's John Gruber advice: don't upgrade to macOS 26, or downgrade if you already have. he wrote Monday: "Why suffer willingly with a user interface that presents you with absurdities like window resizing affordances that are 75 percent outside the window?" Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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Apple and Google confirm Siri will be based on Gemini, but it’s bigger than that
Macworld What has long been rumored has finally been confirmed: Google and Apple have issued a join statement to say that the new Siri will indeed be built on Google’s Gemini technology. But it’s not just about Siri–the partnership is bigger than that. The statement in full reads as follows: Apple and Google have entered into a multi-year collaboration under which the next generation of Apple Foundation Models will be based on Google’s Gemini models and cloud technology. These models will help power future Apple Intelligence features, including a more personalized Siri coming this year. After careful evaluation, Apple determined that Google’s Al technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models and is excited about the innovative new experiences it will unlock for Apple users. Apple Intelligence will continue to run on Apple devices and Private Cloud Compute, while maintaining Apple’s industry-leading privacy standards. What does this mean for you? First, the upcoming Siri overhaul will indeed be based on Google’s Gemini models and cloud technology. That doesn’t mean Siri will be just like Gemini, just that Apple will build the new Siri using the underlying foundation of Gemini. This new Siri is widely expected to arrive in the OS 26.4 updates in March or April, though this statement only says “this year.” But it’s more than just the new Siri. This is a multi-year deal to power “future Apple Intelligence features” as well. There’s no hint about what these are or when they’re coming—Apple is expected to introduce additional AI features, and improve existing ones, in the OS 27 updates it will introduce at WWDC this summer. Of note, the statement assures users that Apple Intelligence features will not run on Google’s servers, but on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute architecture, as well as directly on Apple devices.

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Will Apple-Google AI deal impact user privacy? Here’s what Apple says
Today Apple confirmed a new partnership with Google to power future AI features, including the upcoming Siri overhaul. But how will that impact user privacy? Here’s what Apple says. more…

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Apple confirms Google Gemini will power Apple Intelligence, next-generation Siri later this year
Alphabet subsidiary Google confirmed that it has entered a multiyear deal with Apple to power the company’s "Apple Intelligence" artificial… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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It’s official — Google Gemini will power Siri’s major AI overhaul
Learn how a new partnership between Apple and Google's Gemini will reshape Siri with cutting-edge AI. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Today in Apple history: iPod drives profits to new heights
On January 12, 2005, Apple reported record earnings, with iPod sales giving the company a whopping 4x increase in profits. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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iOS 26.2.1 could launch soon as next iPhone update
iOS 26.2 was released last month with a bunch of great features, and now it appears that a new iOS 26.2.1 update is coming soon for iPhone users. more…

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Deals: Mac mini $110 off, Apple Watch Ultra 2 up to $360 off, Alpine Loop-style band $20, Best Buy Winter sale, more
Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break features the ongoing $100 price drops on Apple Watch Series 11, but we also have some offers on Ultra as well. You’ll find the black Apple Watch Ultra 2 with the gorgeous matching Milanese Loop at $200 off or this Amazon “excellent” refurbished unit down at $439 (that’s $360 off). Those offers join Spigen’s Alpine Loop-style band down at $20 alongside the ongoing deals on the official Milanese Loops, just be sure to scope out the M4 Mac mini offers that landed today with up to $110 in savings. The new Best Buy Winter Sale is now in full swing and you’ll find even more down below.  more…

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Why It Is Difficult to Resize Windows on MacOS 26 Dyehoe
https://noheger.at/blog/2026/01/11/the-struggle-of-resizing-windows-on-macos-tahoe/

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Google Gemini tech will be used in the all-new Siri after major Apple AI deal
Apple will be leaning on Google Gemini technologies Siri overhaul later in 2026, but it won't mean that iPhone user queries will be handed over and absorbed into Google's systems.Apple Intelligence is set to be boosted by Google's Gemini modelsApple and its AI strategy, Apple Intelligence, hasn't quite kept up with the rest of the industry, resulting in speculation that it would seek some outside assistance. On Monday, Apple finally struck a deal to do just that.A multi-year deal between Apple and Google will see Apple use Google's Gemini models and cloud technology for Apple's foundational models. A statement received by CNBC, but not yet made public by Apple itself, reportedly confirms the deal has taken place. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple TV “Pluribus” is stepping off the screen and into the real world with merch
After a very popular debut, Sony Pictures has rolled out the series' first official merchandise collection. It's aggressively average.'Pluribus' merch is finally hereThere's no doubt about it:Pluribusis a major hit for Apple TV. As expected, the sci-fi psychological thriller has finally debuted its first official merchandise drop.Sony Pictures has launched a brand-new "Pluribus" collection on its official store. Fans can snag a new shirt, hoodie, or hat to show their love for their favorite show. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple iPhone leads global smartphone market with 20% share – Counterpoint
Apple's iPhone led as the global smartphone market posted modest growth in 2025, with shipments increasing 2% year-over-year (YoY)… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple Partners With Google on Siri Upgrade, Declares Gemini 'Most Capable Foundation'
Apple has struck a multi-year partnership with Google to power a more capable version of Siri using Gemini AI models, ending months of speculation about which company would help the iPhone maker catch up in the generative AI race. In a statement, Apple said it had determined after "careful evaluation" that "Google's technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models." The deal comes after Apple delayed its planned Siri AI upgrade last March, acknowledging that the project was taking "longer than we thought." Bloomberg had reported in August that Apple was in early talks with Google about using a custom Gemini model. Apple also explored potential partnerships with OpenAI, Anthropic and Perplexity, and CEO Tim Cook has said the company plans to integrate with more AI companies over time. The upgraded Siri is expected to perform actions on users' behalf and understand personal context. Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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