Ikea Matter-over-Thread review: Amazing smart home tech, when they work
Ikea has an impressive new lineup of Matter-over-Thread devices works with Apple Home, but after months of testing, we think that lingering connection issues with bulbs, controls, and sensors are the main problem.Ikea Matter-over-Thread lineup review: Part of Ikea's new smart home lineup with Matter-over-ThreadUnlike Tradfri, Ikea's last smart home push, the fresh batch of smart home wares doesn't have a unifying name. Instead, it is made up of over 20 individual products.The launch made big waves as the Swedish brand was putting all of its weight behind both Matter and Thread. With such affordable prices and a large array of choices, I went in thinking this was going to be a slam dunk. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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iPhone might be swarming with AI agents soon
Apple’s plans for AI agents could reshape the way the App Store and how apps work on the iPhone. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Calif team details how Anthropic Mythos helped build a working macOS exploit in five days
The team behind the first public macOS kernel memory corruption exploit on M5 silicon has shared fresh details on how Mythos Preview helped bypass a five-year Apple security effort in five days. more…

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9to5Mac Daily: May 14, 2026 – AI on the App Store, more
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 Bitwarden: Make your life easier with Bitwarden, featuring a secure, open source password manager with end-to-end encryption and seamless autofill across all your devices. more…

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Apple stock keeps surging to new highs — it’s more than just the iPhone
Apple stock continues to hit new record highs, extending this year’s impressive rebound. Evercore ISI sees the momentum continuing… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple details important enterprise fixes included in macOS 26.5
Apple has published the enterprise release notes for macOS 26.5, detailing several fixes for issues affecting managed Macs. Here are the details. more…

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Apple Card’s transition to Chase: Here’s what’s not changing (and might be)
Apple Card is officially moving to Chase, with Apple’s current partner Goldman Sachs transitioning out over the next year or two. Apple has published details on what to expect during the transition, here’s everything the company says won’t change once Chase takes over—and a few things that might. more…

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OpenAI brings Codex control to ChatGPT for iPhone and Android
OpenAI has announced a new way to interact with its Codex system from your smartphone. An update to ChatGPT for iOS is bringing remote access to Codex for Mac to the iPhone. more…

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Apple promotes Creator Studio with three commissioned pieces
Apple has commissioned a few short creative pieces that show how Creator Studio can be used across different kinds of creative work, including cooking videos, poetry, and music creation. You can watch them below. more…

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Apple Silicon production testing begins at Intel with 2027 mass shipment target
Intel and Apple chip-producing agreement has reportedly started with a test run of select older chipsets made on Intel's newest process, launching a testing roadmap extending well into 2029.Apple's budget lines need older chipsets, which is perfect fodder for IntelThe relationship between Apple and Intel goes back over 40 years. It seemed to have ended with the advent of Apple Silicon, but the political climate may have tilted things back into Intel's favor.According to a report from supply chain analyst and leaker Ming-Chi Kuo, Intel has begun the testing process for building Apple chips on its 18A-P process. This is seemingly the equivalent process used by TSMC for modern Apple chipsets like the A18 Pro. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple TV renews globally acclaimed comedy ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles’
Apple TV on Wednesday announced a season two renewal for “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” the critically acclaimed comedy starring and… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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iOS 27 design changes, AirPods with cameras, Apple education store changes
Benjamin and Chance discuss changes to the Apple education store, the cool new Apple Developer icon, rumors about some design changes for iOS 27 and macOS 27, and whether we can think of anything compelling AirPods with cameras could be used for.  And in Happy Hour Plus, we discuss the state of iOS keyboard autocorrect and dictation accuracy.. Subscribe at 9to5mac.com/join. Sponsored by Copilot Money: Get two months free with code 9TO5MAC at copilot.money/9to5mac. Sponsored by Framer: The only free design tool that brings your ideas to the web. Visit framer.com/happyhour for 30% off a Framer Pro annual plan. Sponsored by Quince: Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Visit quince.com/happyhour for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. more…

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Evercore ISI boosts Apple’s price target to $365 from $330, reinforcing bullish outlook
In a notable upgrade, investment firm Evercore ISI has increased its price target on Apple to $365 from $330 while maintaining its… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Five Apple Wallet features that helped replace my physical wallet [Video]
For years, I have said that the Apple Wallet app is one of Apple’s most underrated services. Most people think of Apple Pay when they hear about Apple Wallet, but it is so much more. It stores everything from my credit cards and transit cards, has replaced my keys, helps me send money, and has honestly replaced the need to carry both a physical wallet and keys. Most of these features have been quietly added over the years, and most people just are not aware of them. Here are five Apple Wallet features I use all the time that most people don’t know about. more…

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Apple and OpenAI might be headed for a messy breakup
Tensions are reportedly rising in the Apple/OpenAI partnership. Here's how their collaboration turned into possible confrontation. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Intel is now making iPhone chips for Apple, per report
Last week The Wall Street Journal reported that Apple and Intel had struck a deal to produce chips, and now a new report from Ming-Chi Kuo says Intel has already kicked off initial production on iPhone processors and more. more…

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Amazon slashes $200 off 1TB M5 MacBook Pro, dropping price to $1,499
The $200 discount applies to the M5 model with 1TB of storage, matching the lowest price on record. Plus, grab an even larger markdown on an upgraded spec.Amazon has dropped Apple's 1TB M5 MacBook Pro to $1,499 - Image credit: AppleThe $1,499.99 special is available on the 14-inch MacBook Pro with a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. It also has 16GB of memory and 1TB of storage, with the $200 discount available in your choice of Space Black or Silver.Buy M5/16GB/1TB MacBook Pro for $1,499.99 Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Car Keys in Apple Wallet now available for a major new vehicle brand
Apple Wallet’s car key feature has expanded to several notable vehicle brands recently, with the latest being Porsche. Here are the details. more…

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OpenAI considering suing Apple because ChatGPT integrations weren't a money fountain
OpenAI is exploring possible legal action after users did what they wanted with Apple's ChatGPT integrations and didn't sign up for enough paid accounts, instead of doing what CEO Sam Altman expected.ChatGPT can plug into Apple IntelligenceA May 14 Bloomberg report says OpenAI has enlisted outside legal counsel and discussed options that could include sending Apple a breach-of-contract notice. OpenAI reportedly expected deeper ChatGPT integration across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS to drive large subscription growth through Apple's ecosystem.Executives at OpenAI now believe the partnership has been financially disappointing and far more limited than anticipated. Apple and OpenAI entered the agreement with distinct priorities.Apple needed a recognizable AI partner while major Siri upgrades and Apple Intelligence features were still under development. OpenAI sought access to hundreds of millions of Apple users, believing the iPhone could become a significant source of recurring ChatGPT subscriptions worth billions annually. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple-OpenAI partnership frays amid disappointing results, setting stage for potential legal battle
In a development that could send shockwaves through the tech industry, Apple’s stopgap partnership with OpenAI has reportedly… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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This $20 app turns IQ tests into actual career insights for life
This platform combines IQ testing, personality profiling and real-world job matching. Get lifetime access to IQ Career Lab for just $19.99. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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How to Face Swap on macOS (2026 Guide)
Macworld Face swap on Mac with VidMage Try It Now (function () { document.querySelector("#sticky-promo-block a").addEventListener("click", function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest("#sticky-promo-block").querySelector("p.promo-title").textContent; const data = { event: "stickyConversionUnitClick", eventCategory: "Sticky Conversion", eventAction: "Click", eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log("Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: ", data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); On paper, face swapping is no longer a technical challenge. The underlying AI has matured quickly, and results have improved across the board. But for Mac users, the experience of actually using these tools hasn’t always kept pace. Yet Mac users have historically faced a familiar problem: many AI-powered tools either prioritize Windows ecosystems or rely heavily on cloud workflows that compromise speed, privacy, or quality. That’s where newer platforms like VidMage aim to shift the balance, offering a more optimized experience for Mac users seeking reliable, high-quality face-swap solutions. But how does a tool like this actually fit into the broader landscape of AI media editing? And, more importantly, does it meet the expectations of Mac users accustomed to refined, performance-conscious software? Let’s break it down. The Growing Demand for Face Swap on Mac Search interest in “face swap for Mac” has grown steadily over the past two years, driven by three observable shifts in content creation: The dominance of short-form video platforms (TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts) Wider accessibility of AI‑generated content tools A creator economy that increasingly values speed and differentiation However, for macOS users, most face‑swap solutions come with friction: Open‑source tools often require manual setup—Python environments, dependency management, and GPU configuration. Browser‑based services struggle with large video files and impose upload limits. Professional editing suites like Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro lack built‑in AI face‑swap features. The result is a clear gap between what users want—fast, clean, realistic face swaps—and what existing tools actually deliver on Mac. VidMage positions itself directly within that gap. A Mac‑First Approach to AI Face Swapping VidMage Where many AI tools treat macOS as an afterthought, VidMage adopts a workflow clearly optimized for Mac users. It runs natively on Apple Silicon (M1 or later) and processes all files locally—no internet connection required, no file size limits, and no uploads to external servers. The tool supports batch processing for multiple files, 4K export resolution, and automatic face detection and enhancement. Core capabilities: Face swap in videos, photos, and GIFs Local processing (files never leave the device) No file size or upload restrictions Batch processing for multiple files 4K export support Automatic face detection and enhancement Instead of requiring command‑line input, GPU tuning, or third‑party libraries, VidMage streamlines the process into a four‑step pipeline: Step 1: Import source media. Open the VidMage Mac app and import the video, photo, or GIF to be edited. The tool supports all common media formats and, because processing happens locally, imposes no file size caps. VidMage Step 2: Add the target face image. Upload a clear, well‑lit photo of the face to swap in (JPG or PNG recommended). For best results, the source face image should have good lighting and a fully visible face. VidMage Step 3. Choose the facial feature mask to swap only the lips, mouth, or nose. Step 4. Export with minimal manual adjustment This workflow mirrors what Mac users expect from tools like iMovie or Pixelmator: focused, efficient, and visually guided. The software does not require a native Apple Silicon build to feel at home on macOS—though performance benefits are noticeable on M‑series chips. Evaluating Output Quality: Alignment, Lighting, and Motion Face‑swap tools typically fall into two camps: Quick but low‑quality: obvious artifacts, poor edge blending, and inconsistent lighting. High‑quality but technically demanding:  requiring model training, manual keyframing, or GPU clusters. VidMage attempts to bridge that divide by prioritizing output realism without demanding technical expertise. In practice, that translates into three areas: Facial Alignment Precision The AI model emphasizes consistent facial structure mapping, reducing common issues such as misaligned eyes, warped proportions, or unnatural expressions. Lighting & Skin Tone Adaptation Mismatched lighting is one of the quickest giveaways in face‑swap content. VidMage’s processing adjusts tone and exposure to better match the target scene—particularly noticeable in video outputs where lighting changes across frames. Motion Consistency in Video For video swaps, frame‑to‑frame temporal consistency is critical. Many tools break down here, producing flicker or distortion. VidMage reduces these artifacts, delivering smoother results suitable for social media and light professional use. The outcome is not Hollywood‑grade VFX, but it is a clear step above novelty filters. Conclusion That’s the complete how‑to for face swap on macOS using VidMage. No terminal, no cloud uploads, no file size anxiety. Just a local Mac app, a few clicks, and a swapped face that never leaves your drive. The key takeaways are simple: use well‑lit, front‑facing source footage for best results; keep low‑light or fast‑motion clips under 15 seconds per render; and remember that the free tier caps at roughly 20‑30 seconds of video daily. If you need longer clips, batch processing, or 4K export, the paid plan removes those limits. For Mac users who value privacy over convenience‑at‑any‑cost, this workflow offers a rare combination: local processing without the usual open‑source setup headaches. Now go test it with your own footage—you’ll see exactly where it shines and where a quick lighting fix makes all the difference.

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macOS 26.5 has a new way to turn on your Mac
Macworld Apple released macOS 26.5 earlier this week, and it’s mostly filled with security updates, to go along with Maps’ Suggested Places and RCS end-to-end encryption. However, Apple added a new option for desktop Mac owners who think it’s too difficult to reach their Mac’s power button. In the Energy section of System Settings for the Mac mini, iMac, and Mac Studio, there’s a new option labeled “Start up when power is connected.” According to an Apple support document, “Your Mac will now automatically turn on whenever you connect it to power, such as when plugging it into a power outlet or restoring power using an external power switch.” Foundry This new option is meant to address complaints about the Mac mini’s power button, which is located under the computer. You have to lift the computer slightly to access the button, which is awkward and a problem when the Mac mini is placed in a chassis or mounted in a specific way, as is somewhat common with the Mac mini due to its small size. This option also allows users to use switches and other assistive accessories to control the power. Unsupported Macs will see the old option to “Start up automatically after a power failure.” To install the macOS 26.5 update, go to System Settings > General > Software Update. The Mac will need to restart, and the installation takes several minutes.

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OpenAI preparing ‘legal action’ against Apple over Siri partnership: report
Apple and OpenAI inked a deal to integrate ChatGPT with Siri as part of iOS 18 in 2024. According to a new report today, however, OpenAI is displeased with how the partnership has played out and is considering taking legal action against Apple. more…

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Anthropic’s Mythos helped find bugs in Apple’s macOS
In a striking example of how advanced AI is reshaping cybersecurity, researchers inspired by Anthropic’s unreleased Mythos AI mode… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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iPhone 17 Pro beats 32 smartphones in charging speed test
Apple's flagship iPhone 17 Pro wins charging speed test, topping 32 others from the likes of Samsung and Google. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Anthropic's Mythos AI outsmarted Apple's Mac security systems
Security researchers have admitted that Anthropic's Mythos AI model has been able to hack macOS, bypassing Apple's security systems in a way never previously achieved.The Mac's increasing popularity is a blessing and a curseMythos is an early version of a new, more powerful Claude AI model software that is yet to be made public. Anthropic's engineers have warned that it is too good at finding security exploits to allow it into the wild.Now, proof of its abilities has come in the form of an escalation exploit. If used correctly, the exploit could potentially allow a hacker to gain control of a Mac despite Apple's security measures. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Get an extra 2TB for your Mac for just $210 with this rare sale
Macworld 2TB Lexar SL500 Portable SSD View Deal (function () { document.querySelector("#sticky-promo-block a").addEventListener("click", function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest("#sticky-promo-block").querySelector("p.promo-title").textContent; const data = { event: "stickyConversionUnitClick", eventCategory: "Sticky Conversion", eventAction: "Click", eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log("Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: ", data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); With memory and storage shortages impacting everyone, it’s rare to see any type of deals on portable SSDs these days. Well, we’ve got one today: This 2TB Lexar SL500 model is on sale for a record-low at B&H Photo, shaving off $190 off the $400 price tag when you click the on-page coupon. The Lexar SL500 is tiny enough to fit into your palm and light enough that you won’t hate carrying it with you; in fact, you might just forget you have it with you. With a USB-C 3.2 interface, this portable SSD can hit read speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 1,800 MB/s. That means that if you connect it to your phone, you can use it to record 4K vids at 60fps without filling up precious storage space. Getting an extra 2TB for your laptop, phone, or tablet is absolutely fantastic, especially if you’ve got a 256GB MacBook Air or Neo. Having a place to store all those pics and vids will also save you on those monthly iCloud fees. Lexar’s DataShield 256-bit AES encryption will protect your data from snooping eyes, while the IP53 dust and water rating will keep the device safe from the elements (and your clumsiness when spilling water on your desk). Our friends at PCWorld gave this drive 4.5 stars when they reviewed it, praising its performance, profile, and 5-year warranty. In a world where storage deals are so rare they make the news, it’s time to take advantage of this $190 discount and get 2TB of extra storage space for $210.

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Nitrogen ransomware gang claims major data theft from Apple’s key supplier Foxconn
Foxconn, the Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant best known as Apple's primary contract manufacturer for iPhones and other… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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New macOS vulnerabilities were exposed by Anthropic’s Mythos: report
Anthropic’s Mythos AI model has famously been kept fairly secret due to its apparent risk to software systems around the world. And today a new report says Mythos was used to expose macOS security vulnerabilities that Apple is investigating now. more…

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