Elon Musk: Apple’s deal with Alphabet for Gemini AI ‘an unreasonable concentration of power for Google’
Following the deal between Alphabet and Apple to use Google Gemini to power Apple Intelligence and the forthcoming LLM Siri, Elon Musk… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Adobe Firefly gets GPT-Image 1.5 support and temporary unlimited image generation
To celebrate the integration between Firefly and OpenAI’s GPT-Image 1.5 model, Firefly Pro and Premium subscribers can generate unlimited images with this model until January 15. Here are the details. more…

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iOS 26 adoption isn't record-breaking, but reports of extremely low rates are flawed
Recent reports about low iOS 26 adoption failed to pick up on a crucial mistake with the source data. It's a reminder to be careful about third-party sources for Apple statistics.Safari user agent data caused inaccuracies in iOS 26 adoption reportsAn early January report claimed that Apple is struggling to get people to upgrade their devices to iOS 26. It's a story that seemed to have come from a reputable source of data, and it quickly spread across the Apple news sites.However, it seems that there was a major flaw in the original data that wasn't taken into account by any of the publications. All told, it was an event that serves as a reminder that third-party data sources making claims about Apple are not necessarily going to be entirely accurate. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple's Mac mini dips to $499, plus save $150 on M4 Pro desktop with coupon
Today's top Mac mini deals include online prices from $499, along with a hidden discount on Apple's M4 Pro model.Grab a Mac mini for as low as $499.99 today.If you're looking for the lowest online M4 Mac mini price, Amazon has the standard 10-core M4/16GB/256GB spec on sale for $499.99 today, reflecting a $100 discount off retail.Buy M4 Mac mini for $499.99 Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple dethrones Samsung: iPhone claims world’s top smartphone spot
Explore the fierce competition between Apple and Samsung in the smartphone market, and why iPhone is currently winning. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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MagSafe Monday: ESR OmniLock delivers Qi2.2 charging in the car with built-in heat management
The appeal of MagSafe is undeniable in the car. The magnetic snap that perfectly aligns the charging coils ensures you are getting the most efficient power transfer possible while also never worrying about a cable. Frankly, once you use MagSafe in the car, there is no going back. Even prior to MagSafe, people loved mounts, but they also needed to charge as well. MagSafe mounts combine both! Today, I am taking a look at the ESR OmniLock with Qi2.2. more…

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9to5Mac Daily: January 12, 2026 – Apple’s Google Gemini deal is official
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. Sponsored by Stuff: Stuff helps you get everything out of your head and into a simple, elegant system—closing open loops and reducing mental stress. Use code 9TO5 at checkout for 50% off your first year. more…

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Gmail to End POP Fetching and Gmailify Features
Gmail is dropping support for POP fetching from other accounts and the Gmailify feature. Most users won't notice, but those with complex email setups should start planning a migration.Read original article

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macOS 26 Tahoe Beta: Latest beta and how to get it
Macworld Every year, Apple updates the Mac operating system. The current version of macOS is macOS 15.5, but development of macOS 26 (not macOS 16) is well underway. Apple runs a beta program, which means developers and registered public testers can try out new features before they are released to the general public later in the year. The beta process doesn’t stop with the full release of macOS in the fall. After macOS 15 Sequoia arrived on Macs in September 2024, development continued with new features rolled out every couple of months. The same will be true of the macOS 26 development cycle. In this article, we’ll explain what you need to do to get your hands on a copy of the new beta of macOS 26, how to install it, and what you should bear in mind if you want to avoid problems. (If you would prefer to use the latest official release of macOS, here’s how to update macOS on your Mac.) Update January 12, 2026: Apple released the macOS 26.3 beta 2. macOS beta: Latest version The most recent version of the macOS 26 Tahoe developer beta is version 26.3. It was released on December 15, 2025. Following WWDC 2025 on June 9, the macOS 26 developer beta is now available to download for those signed up to the program. The “macOS 26” name is part of a coherent annual naming system along with iOS 26 and iPadOS 26. Foundry macOS beta: Next beta update New betas tend to arrive every one to two weeks, and more frequently as the full release data approaches. The beta testing program will continue to run after the new macOS 26 software launches in September or October 2025, with Apple continuing to roll out new features. How to get the macOS beta To get the developer version of the macOS 26 beta, you need to be running macOS Sequoia and be registered for Apple’s developer program, either having paid $99/£79 to enroll in Apple’s Developer program (here) or with a free developer account (follow the instructions below for how to register for that). Alternatively, if it’s the public beta you are after, you just need to sign up for the Public Beta program on Apple’s beta webpage, sign the NDA, and enroll your Mac. Details of how to do that are below. As long as you are a registered developer or enrolled in the public beta program, when the relevant macOS Beta becomes available, it will also show up on your Mac. Before you download the beta, a few warnings: We strongly advise that if you aren’t a developer, you don’t download the developer beta. We also strongly recommend that you back up your Mac before you upgrade to the macOS beta. We recommend that you do not run the macOS beta on your primary Mac; ideally, run it in a separate volume. This should minimize any risks to you. How to get a free Apple developer account If you just want a free Apple Developer account so you can access the beta, you can get this via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app on an iPhone: Get the Apple Developer App from the App Store.  Open the app on your iPhone.  Tap on Account.  Tap on Sign In.  Sign in using your usual Apple ID.  If you wish to actually publish applications to the App Store or receive support, you’ll need to pay $99/£79 per year for a paid account. You can compare the free and paid accounts here. How to register for the macOS public beta The macOS public beta is accessible to anyone with a valid Apple ID. To register, go to the Apple Beta Software Program page. Select the “Sign Up” option. Sign in using your Apple ID. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the registration process. Enrol the Mac you wish to run the beta on via this Apple page. How to download macOS beta Open Software Updates on your Mac. (System Settings > General > Software Updates.) You should see two options: Automatic Updates and Beta Updates. Click on the (i) beside Beta Updates. You can now turn on Beta Updates (if they weren’t already on). Choose the beta you want to download: public or developer. If your account is tied to a different Apple ID than your usual one, you can change that here. Click Done. Now your Mac will check for updates and eventually show the latest macOS Beta as an upgrade. Click on Upgrade Now. Foundry Do I need the macOS Beta Access Utility? Only if you are running macOS Ventura 13.3 or earlier. Apple changed the way it delivers betas in Ventura 13.4. If you aren’t yet running that version of macOS you will need to download the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility or macOS Public Beta Access Utility in order to download betas. If you were already running an earlier macOS Public Beta you’ll find the new macOS beta as an upgrade via Software Update. Just click on Upgrade Now. You may have to update to the latest version of your current beta before you can do so, if not follow the steps below to get the beta access utility. If you are enrolled in the Developer Program, go to Apple’s beta download page. Click on Install Profile to download the new macOS Developer Beta Access Utility to your Mac. If you are enrolled as a public beta tester, download the macOS Public Beta Access Utility. Go to Downloads on your Mac and click on the macOS Beta Access Utility to open it. Double-click on the dmg file and the installer will run. Once the new macOS beta is installed Software Update will check to see if there are any updates. Click Update and the latest version will download. You’ll see a prompt to install the latest macOS beta, click on Continue. Agree to the Ts&Cs (more on them below). Click Install. Once you are running the beta, the updates will come through to your Mac automatically; you just need to click to install. You will receive a notification when the next update to the beta is available. Updates will be available via Software Update (in System Settings/System Preferences) FAQ 1. Who can run the macOS beta? Anyone can run the macOS beta, but to do so, you do need to register for either the developer beta, the pubic beta, or both. Apple offers both developer and public beta programs for macOS, enabling all interested users to test pre-release versions of the operating system. While both betas provide early access to new features, they cater to different user profiles based on technical expertise and risk tolerance. Beta software tends to be buggy so the more stable public beta version may be preferable, but even that will not be bug-free. In the past, the developer beta was only available to developers who had paid to join Apple’s Developer Program (which costs $99/£79). However, for a couple of years now, Apple has opened up the developer beta to registered developers with free developer accounts. We explain how to get a free developer account below. If you decide you no longer want to run the beta version of macOS read this: How to remove the macOS beta. 2. macOS public beta vs developer beta Since 2023, the Developer Beta has been available to anyone who registers as a developer, even if they aren’t a paid-up member of Apple’s Developer Program. As a result, people with a basic free developer account can download the new macOS developer beta (we show you how to register below). Whether you should download the developer beta if you aren’t a developer is another question. We don’t recommend you install the developer beta if you aren’t a developer. Instead, our recommendation is to use the public beta (the first version of which usually arrives in July). There are a few differences between the public and developer betas. The public beta is not the same as the beta that is released through the developer program. The public beta typically launches after the developer beta has undergone initial testing and refinement Developers get updates to their beta first, and possibly more frequently. But you should keep in mind that betas are by nature not stable, and because the public beta comes after the developer beta it could be a little safer to install. The most significant difference is probably the motive of the testers: Developers usually have the aim of ensuring their apps work when the updated macOS is released to the general public, while public beta testers are essentially helping Apple detect bugs and offering feedback on the features. Because of this, developers may get to test new features not available in the public beta.  If you want to get the public beta the first thing you need to do, if you haven’t already, is join Apple’s beta programs read this for more information: How to become an Apple beta tester. 3. Is the macOS beta stable? By its nature, a beta has the potential to be unstable. Therefore, it’s not advised that you install it on a Mac that you rely on. If you have a second Mac that isn’t mission-critical, then install it there. We strongly recommend that you don’t risk all by putting the macOS beta on your primary macOS, especially not in the early days of the beta development.  If you don’t have a second Mac, there are a couple of ways you could run macOS beta on your Mac without running the risk of losing data or finding your Mac stops working: We recommend installing it on a partition, which these days is really a volume (and is much easier to create than a partition was). Read about how to do that here: How to dual-boot Mac: Run two versions of macOS on a Mac. Alternatively, you could install the macOS beta on an external drive and run it on that. We discuss the safety of the macOS beta and the risks you might be taking in more detail in a separate article. If the stability of the beta worries you, then you are probably better off waiting until the final version is out, or at least waiting until testing has been happening for a few months before getting the beta. 4. How to prepare your Mac for the beta Update your software: We recommend you have the latest full version of macOS installed, although Apple says that the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility requires macOS 10.8 or later. Make space: We’d recommend at least 15GB of available space because the macOS betas tend to be very large. If you end up requiring more space, read: How to free up space on Mac. Note that we always recommend that you have at least 10% space free on your Mac at any time, so if you don’t have that, expect problems! Back up: Before you install a beta on your Mac, you should make a backup of your data and files. You can find out how to use Time Machine to back up your Mac. We also have a round-up of suitable backup solutions. 5. How to send feedback to Apple Should you come across an error or a bug, you should use the Feedback Assistant app to provide feedback to Apple. Launch the app and follow the appropriate steps, selecting the area about which you’re providing feedback and then any specific sub-area. Then describe your issue in a single sentence, before providing a more detailed description, including any specific steps that reproduce the issue. You’ll also be able to attach other files. You’ll also have to give permission for the Feedback Assistant app to collect diagnostic information from your Mac. It won’t always be obvious whether something is a bug or just not as easy to use as you might have hoped. Either way, if your feedback is that something appears to work in an illogical way, Apple will want to know that. If you are having trouble with a third-party app, you can let Apple know by reporting it through the 3rd-party Application Compatibility category in the Feedback Assistant. However, we’d suggest that you also provide feedback to the app’s developer, who will no doubt be grateful. 6. Will I be able to update from macOS beta to the final version? Beta users will be able to install the final build of the OS on release day without needing to reformat or reinstall. 7. Can I talk about the beta publicly? According to Apple and the license agreement all beta testers must agree to, the beta is “Apple confidential information”. By accepting those terms, you agree not to discuss your use of the software with anyone who isn’t also in the Beta Software Program. That means you can’t “blog, post screenshots, tweet, or publicly post information about the public beta software.” However, you can discuss any information that Apple has publicly disclosed; the company says that information is no longer considered confidential. 8. How to downgrade from the macOS beta You can always revert to an earlier version of macOS, though depending on how you back up, it’s not necessarily a painless process. Start by making sure the data on your drive is backed up, then erase the drive and install the latest public version of macOS. When you first start up your Mac, you can use the Migration Assistant to import your data from the backup. Here’s a more detailed tutorial on downgrading from the macOS beta and we also have a tutorial on downgrading to an older version of the Mac OS. macOS Sonoma beta timeline To get an idea of what to expect for the macOS 26 beta timeline, here’s how the macOS Sequoia beta rolled out in 2024. The first version of the macOS 15 Sequoia developer beta arrived after the WWDC keynote on June 10, 2024. Beta 2 arrived on June 24. The first public beta of Sequoia arrived on July 15, 2024. Developer beta 4 was released on July 23. The second public beta also arrived on July 23, 2024. Developer beta 5 arrived on August 5 followed by the third public beta. Apple released the macOS Sequoia 15 developer beta 6 on August 12. The fourth public beta of Sequoia arrived on August 13, 2024. Developer beta 7 and the fifth public beta of Sequoia were released on August 20. On August 28, Apple released the macOS Sequoia 15 beta 8 and the sixth public beta of Sequoia. The release candidate of Sequoia arrived on September 9. The full version of Sequoia arrived on compatible Macs on September 16. There were actually two versions of the developer beta running concurrently. The macOS Sequoia 15.1 beta included Apple Intelligence features that are only available on M-series Macs (a iOS 18.1 beta was also in development separately with Apple Intelligence features for compatible iPhones). Apple started work on the macOS Sequoia 15.1 Beta on July 29. macOS Sequoia 15.1 Beta 2 arrived on August 12. macOS Sequoia 15.1 Beta 3 was released to developers on August 28. Initially, this beta was only for developers, but Apple released a macOS Sequoia 15.1 pubic beta on September 19, 2024, following the release of Sequoia to the general public. Eventually, the macOS Sequoia 15.1 release candidate was released on October 21, and a second release candidate 2 was released on October 24. The final version of macOS Sequoia 15.1 arrived on compatible Macs on October 28. After the macOS Sequoia full release, the beta continued: macOS Sequoia 15.1 beta – arrived September 19, 2024 macOS Sequoia 15.2 beta- arrived October 23, 2024. Including a second set of Apple Intelligence features. The official release of 15.2 was on December 11. macOS Sequoia 15.3 beta – arrived December 16, 2024. Including the ability to create Gemoji. Release Candidate available on January 2. macOS Sequoia 15.4 beta – arrived on February 19, 2025. Included Mail updates and Proximity Pairing with the iPhone. Release Candidate available on March 28. macOS Sequoia 15.5 beta – arrived April 2, 2025. Apple released the Sequoia 15.5 beta 1 to developers. Out May 12, 2024.

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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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Alleged Jabber Zeus Coder ‘MrICQ’ in U.S. Custody
A Ukrainian man indicted in 2012 for conspiring with a prolific hacking group to steal tens of millions of dollars from U.S. businesses was arrested in Italy and is now in custody in the United States, KrebsOnSecurity has learned. Sources close to the investigation say Yuriy Igorevich Rybtsov, a 41-year-old from the Russia-controlled city of Donetsk, Ukraine, was previously referenced in U.S. federal charging documents only by his online handle "MrICQ." According to a 13-year-old indictment filed by prosecutors in Nebraska, MrICQ was a developer for a cybercrime group known as "Jabber Zeus."

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Aisuru Botnet Shifts from DDoS to Residential Proxies
Aisuru, the botnet responsible for a series of record-smashing distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks this year, recently was overhauled to support a more low-key, lucrative and sustainable business: Renting hundreds of thousands of infected Internet of Things (IoT) devices to proxy services that help cybercriminals anonymize their traffic. Experts says a glut of proxies from Aisuru and other sources is fueling large-scale data harvesting efforts tied to various artificial intelligence (AI) projects, helping content scrapers evade detection by routing their traffic through residential connections that appear to be regular Internet users.

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Canada Fines Cybercrime Friendly Cryptomus $176M
Financial regulators in Canada this week levied $176 million in fines against Cryptomus, a digital payments platform that supports dozens of Russian cryptocurrency exchanges and websites hawking cybercrime services. The penalties for violating Canada's anti money-laundering laws come ten months after KrebsOnSecurity noted that Cryptomus's Vancouver street address was home to dozens of foreign currency dealers, money transfer businesses, and cryptocurrency exchanges — none of which were physically located there.

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Email Bombs Exploit Lax Authentication in Zendesk
Cybercriminals are abusing a widespread lack of authentication in the customer service platform Zendesk to flood targeted email inboxes with menacing messages that come from hundreds of Zendesk corporate customers simultaneously.

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After-Christmas Sale: M4 Mac minis on sale for up to $120 off MSRP
Amazon has M4 and M4 Pro Mac minis on sale starting at only $479 and ranging up to $120 off MSRP. Shipping is free: - Mac mini M4 (16GB/256GB): $479, $120 off MSRP - Mac mini M4 (16GB/512GB): $736.07, $63 off MSRP - Mac mini M4 (24GB/512GB): $909, $90 off MSRP - Mac mini M4 Pro (24GB/512GB): $1279, $120 off MSRP These are the lowest After-Christmas sale prices currently available for Mac minis. For the latest prices and sales, keep an eye on our Mac mini Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Best Apple Holiday Sale: Take $250 off all 13-inch and 15-inch M4 MacBook Airs
Amazon has all 13" M4 MacBook Airs and 15" M4 MacBook Airs on Holiday sale for $250 off Apple's MSRP, starting at only $749. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party: - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $749, $250 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $949, $250 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB): $1149, $250 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $949, $250 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $1149, $250 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB/): $1349, $250 off Their prices are the lowest available for new M4 MacBook Airs anywhere and the best Holiday deal on Apple products available right now. For the latest sales & prices, see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker and 15" MacBook Air Price Tracker, both updated daily.

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Holiday Sale: Get an 11-inch A16 iPad today for $75 off MSRP, only $274
Walmart is offering a $75 Holiday discount on Apple's 11" A16 WiFi iPads, now priced at only $274. Sale price for online orders only, in-store price may vary. Order online and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available): - 11" 128GB WiFi A16 iPad: $274, $75 off MSRP - 11" 256GB WiFi A16 iPad: $374, $75 off MSRP - 11" 512GB WiFi A16 iPad: $574, $75 off MSRP These are the lowest Holiday sale prices currently available for Apple iPads. Note that not all colors are in stock at the time of this post (see their site for details). For the latest prices & deals, keep an eye on our iPad Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Walmart has AirPods on Holiday sale right now starting at only $74
Walmart has Apple AirPods on Holiday sale on their online store for up to $55 off MSRP. Order online and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available): - AirPods 4: $74, $55 off - AirPods 4 with ANC: $139.99, $40 off - AirPods Pro 3: $199, $50 off These are the lowest Holiday sale prices available right now for Apple AirPods. Keep an eye on our AirPods Price Tracker for the latest prices and deals, updated daily.

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Walmart has clearance 13-inch M1 MacBook Airs on sale for only $599
Walmart has clearance, but new, Apple 13" M1 MacBook Airs (8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) available online for $599, $400 off original MSRP, in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold colors. These are new MacBooks for sale by Walmart directly, not a third-party seller. These sale prices are available for online orders only. Order online, and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available). Delivery is available as soon as December 23rd. Note that stock status may vary, check Walmart's site for availability. For the latest sales & prices, see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Mac Studio with M4 Max CPU on Holiday sale for $1799, $200 off Apple’s MSRP
B&H Photo has the standard-configuration Mac Studio model with Apple's M4 Max CPU in stock today and on Holiday sale for $200 off MSRP, now $1799 (10-Core CPU and 32GB RAM/512GB SSD). B&H also offers free 1-2 day shipping to most US addresses. Their price is the lowest available for this model. For the latest prices and sales, see our Mac Studio Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Apple’s new 14-inch M5 MacBook Pros remain on Holiday sale for $250 off MSRP, prices start at $1349
Amazon is offering $250 discounts on new 14" M5 MacBook Pros as part of their Holiday sales, each including free shipping: - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB/Black): $1349.99, MSRP $1599 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB/Silver): $1349, MSRP $1599 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Black): $1549, MSRP $1799 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Silver): $1729, MSRP $1799 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB/Black): $1849, MSRP $1999 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB/Silver): $1799, MSRP $1999 These are the lowest prices available for new M5 MacBook Pros right now. For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Holiday Deal: Apple AirPods 4 for only $74, normally $129
Walmart has Apple AirPods 4 now on Holiday sale on their online store for $55 off MSRP, only $74. Order online and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available). This is the lowest price currently available for new AirPods among Apple's retailers: - AirPods 4: $74, $55 off Keep an eye on our AirPods Price Tracker for the latest prices and deals, updated daily.

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Apple’s 15-inch M4 MacBook Airs are back on Holiday sale again for $250 off MSRP, prices start at $949
Amazon has all 15" M4 MacBook Airs on Holiday sale again for $250 off Apple's MSRP, starting at only $949. Delivery is still available in time for Christmas. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party: - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $949, $250 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $1149, $250 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB/): $1349, $250 off These are the best Holiday sale prices currently available for 15" M4 MacBook Airs. For the latest sales & prices, see our 15" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Holiday Sale: $70 off Apple’s 11-inch A16 iPad, now only $279
Walmart is offering a $70 Holiday discount on Apple's 11" A16 WiFi 128GB iPad, now priced at only $279. Sale price for online orders only, in-store price may vary. Order online and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available): - 11" 128GB WiFi A16 iPad: $279, $70 off MSRP For the latest prices & deals, keep an eye on our iPad Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Take $440 off Apple’s 16-inch MacBook Pros with the latest Holiday sale prices
Amazon has 16-inch M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pros (Silver and Black colors) on sale for up to $440 off Apple's MSRP as part of their Holiday sales. Shipping is free. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party seller: - 16" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/512GB/Black): $2199, $300 off MSRP - 16" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/512GB/Silver): $2190.08, $309 off MSRP - 16" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (48GB/512GB/Black): $2529, $370 off MSRP - 16" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (48GB/512GB/Silver): $2549, $350 off MSRP - 16" M4 Max MacBook Pro (36GB/1TB/Black): $3063.84, $436 off MSRP - 16" M4 Max MacBook Pro (36GB/1TB/Silver): $3059.76, $440 off MSRP - 16" M4 Max MacBook Pro (48GB/1TB/Black): $3599, $400 off MSRP - 16" M4 Max MacBook Pro (48GB/1TB/Silver): $3599, $400 off MSRP These are the lowest Holiday sale prices on new 16" Apple MacBook Pros right now. For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 16-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Sunday Holiday Sale: Take $200-$250 off M4 MacBook Airs, prices start at only $749
Amazon has all 13" M4 MacBook Airs and 15" M4 MacBook Airs on Holiday sale for $200-$250 off Apple's MSRP, starting at only $749. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party: - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $749, $250 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $949, $250 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB): $1149, $250 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $999, $200 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $1199, $200 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB/): $1399, $200 off Their prices are the lowest available for new M4 MacBook Airs anywhere and represent one of the best Holiday deals on Apple products available right now. For the latest sales & prices, see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker and 15" MacBook Air Price Tracker, both updated daily.

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