Apple Maps could be next in line to get an Apple Intelligence infusion
Macworld Since Apple Intelligence was announced in 2024, we’ve only seen the rollout of a few basic features, including Writing Tools and Genmoji, while more advanced features, such as the new Siri with deeper integration with apps, have been delayed without a clear schedule. Still, Apple has been working to expand support for Apple Intelligence, and Apple Maps may be the next app to gain some AI features. Following the release of the first beta of iOS 26.2 on Tuesday, Macworld found evidence of Apple’s plans to bring its AI tools to Apple Maps. More specifically, the company aims to make searching within Maps more natural and accurate. The update reveals a new framework called “MapsIntelligence,” which was already referenced in iOS 26.1. But code added with iOS 26.2 reveals a bit more about what Apple has been planning and what we can expect from this AI integration. Smart Maps may be on the way Essentially, Apple appears to be laying the groundwork for making the search experience in the Maps app much smarter through a new “SearchPersonalization” bundle, which is deeply integrated with AI models. The company has been using AI internally in the Maps app to enable things like faster autocomplete in search, better directions, and review summaries for businesses.  The AI models seem to analyze different aspects to provide smarter results, such as user location, real-time traffic, and specific details about a business, such as current menus. These AI models are also expected to integrate with Siri and Spotlight, so that users can find places on the map using natural language in their search. Apple added a feature in iOS 26 to see recently visited places, but Apple Intelligence could upgrade the experience even more.Apple Interestingly, the bundle also contains references to “Gemini,” which could be a hint at Apple exploring other large language model options beyond its own to power Apple Intelligence. It’s also been reported that Apple has partnered with Google to “lean on” Gemini in the new Siri coming next year. The feature seems to be quite early in development, as code snippets reveal an internal system that tests and scores different machine learning models so engineers can decide which ML model performs best. This likely means that Apple engineers are still deciding what works best for this feature. Once implemented, smarter search in the Maps app should make it much easier to explore the maps and find new places to go. Interestingly, the code also references a “Spatial Lookup” feature. The term “Spatial” in Apple’s code usually refers to Vision Pro, so perhaps the company is also working on a more immersive Maps app for its headset. Currently, visionOS uses the iPad version of Apple Maps without any immersive features. iOS 26.2 is expected to be released to the public by the end of the year.

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The brand-new Apple Watch SE 3 is already a steal at under $200
Macworld If yesterday’s $100 discount on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 was still a little more than you wanted to spend on a smartwatch, today’s deal might be for you. The brand new Apple Watch SE 3 is on sale for $200 right now, a savings of $50 and the first time it’s dropped this low. Whether you’re new to Apple Watch or upgrading from an older model, we absolutely love this watch. In fact, when we reviewed the Watch SE 3, we gave it a 4.5-star rating and our Editors’ Choice award, as we found it super comfortable to wear. We also appreciated the always-on display and the fantastic battery life, as well as the healthy array of sensors and features. The Apple Watch SE 3 tracks your workouts, brings you a ton of safety features, detects falls and car crashes and connects you to emergency services or your contacts. You can even set up this model for your kids, even without an iPhone in their pocket; they can still call, text, and, more importantly, share their location. It also features the new Sleep Score and sleep apnea notifications, as well as double-tap and wrist-flick gestures The Apple Watch SE 3 is a great value at its $249 MSRP, but is an absolute steal for $50 off. It’s hard to believe we’ll see a better price for this, even during the upcoming Black Friday sales, so grabbing it now for $200 makes perfect sense. Snag a $50 discount for the Apple Watch SE3 Buy now at Amazon

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Apple TV’s hit thriller with Jennifer Garner is coming back soon
Apple has announced the season 2 premiere date for The Last Thing He Told Me, the Jennifer Garner-starring series based on a hit book. Here are the details. more…

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Wokyis M5 dock review: Mac Plus looks, M4 Mac mini performance
The Wokyis M5 gives your M4 Mac mini a cute retro Mac form factor, storage, a five-inch screen, and USB-A ports. What's not to like?Wokyis M5 Mac mini Dock review: Powered on, it's a retro marvel. AppleInsider has looked at a lot of docks over the years. They get dull after a while, since they're all based on designs from one or two Chinese manufacturers.We've never tried one as interesting as the Wokyis M5. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Today in Apple history: Fortune names Steve Jobs ‘CEO of the decade’
On November 5, 2009, the businees magazine named Steve Jobs CEO of the decade after a brilliant 10 years at Apple and Pixar. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Anticipating the M5 MacBook Air: Significant speed increase is on the horizon
As Apple's silicon evolution accelerates, the M5 chip is poised to invigorate its desktop and laptop lineup, with the MacBook Air emerging… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Sleek Nomad Stand One chargers for iPhone and more just got a lot faster
Known for sleek design, newly updated Nomad Stand One Qi2.2 chargers now bring fast, 25-watt Qi2.2 charging for iPhone. (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 hints new ‘Apple Creator Studio’ could be coming
iOS 26.2 beta 1 arrived yesterday with a bunch of exciting new features, but hidden in the release’s code, there’s also reference to a new ‘Apple Creator Studio’ in the works. more…

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Mac Studio may get a surprise M5 Ultra upgrade in 2026
Macworld Following the launch of Apple’s M5 in new iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, and Vision Pro models last month, analysts are already making predictions about the higher-end versions of the chip still to come. Specifically, we can expect a Mac Studio equipped with an extremely powerful M5 Ultra at some point in 2026. In an article mostly focusing on Apple’s plans to enter the low-cost laptop market, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman briefly mentions a swathe of other Mac launch plans, ranging from Mac mini models with the M5 and M5 Pro chips to Mac Studios with the M5 Max and M5 Ultra. The M5 Pro, Max, and Ultra don’t yet officially exist; Apple has so far released the plain M5 only. This might seem like an obvious progression—for the first three M-class chips, after all, Apple dutifully followed the base model with Pro, Max, and Ultra variants for higher performance in its premium Macs and other products—but that system has recently been thrown in doubt. With the M5 cycle underway, we still haven’t had an M4 Ultra, just the standard, Pro, and Max variants of that chip. And while it still could arrive (the M3 Ultra came out as late as this spring, long after the baseline M4), there are a variety of reasons why it probably won’t. Gurman says the M5 Ultra will make its debut in the Mac Studio, but the chip has a good chance of appearing later in an updated Mac Pro. The current Mac Pro comes with a surprisingly outdated M2 Ultra despite its $6,999 price tag. We’ve assumed for some time that the next Mac Pro would jump two generations to the M4 Ultra, but with that chip now looking unlikely to ever appear, Apple may decide to wait slightly longer and go all the way to an M5 Ultra for the sake of future-proofing. The precise timing of all this is unclear, but we can make some educated guesses. At present, we’re still on the standard M5, and we can expect the M5 Pro and Max to arrive in the MacBook Pro before the Ultra. We could get those in the spring of 2026, leaving the M5 Ultra to appear in the summer (potentially at WWDC) or fall.

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This is how you can play the real native Fortnite on an Apple Silicon Mac
There are official ways to play Fortnite on a Mac, using one of three cloud gaming services. But you can also visit GitHub to install the real native mobile Fortnite on any Apple Silicon Mac … more…

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Hidden iOS 26.2 code points to mystery Apple smart home accessory
Macworld Apple’s smart-home lineup is currently limited to Apple TV and HomePod, but according to rumors, the company plans to explore this segment even further with a new iPad-like hub and an array of accessories. While Apple itself hasn’t confirmed the news, the first beta of iOS 26.2 gives a clue as to what’s next when it comes to Apple’s smart home accessories. iOS 26.2 beta code discovered by Macworld corroborates that Apple does indeed have plans to introduce a new product category relatively soon – or at least that the company has been exploring the idea. Code strings related to the Home app, which is used to manage HomeKit devices, now include references to a new system flag labeled “isFirstPartyAccessory.” For reference, current home accessories that can also be considered first-party already have their own flag in the Home app. These are “isApple TV” and “isHomePod.” Other HomeKit devices are internally identified as third-party accessories. Rumors are swirling that Apple will release a new HomePod with a built-in screen. However, the “isFirstPartyAccessory” flag suggests that Apple is working on support for new types of accessories designed by Apple that don’t fit into either the Apple TV or HomePod categories, such as cameras and doorbells. Apple’s own security camera In recent months, multiple reliable sources, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, have reported Apple’s plans to further explore the smart home segment, starting with the launch of a home security camera. There are not many details about the design or features, except that it would integrate deeply with the Apple ecosystem. If true, this camera would surely fit as a first-party accessory in the Home app. Bloomberg previously reported that this new camera is expected to be announced sometime in 2026. The fact that iOS 26.2 beta includes references to this new type of home accessory suggests that Apple is indeed preparing the ecosystem for new hardware coming soon. While Apple’s plans may change and an internal system flag doesn’t guarantee that the company will actually launch new products, the discovery is in line with all the latest rumors about Apple’s next moves in the smart home segment. iOS 26.2 is expected to be released to the public in December, but we don’t expect this new accessory to arrive until at least spring 2026.

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Get a first-gen Apple Pencil for just $45 (half off!)
Grade-A refurbished Apple Pencil (1st Gen) adds powerful drawing, writing and productivity features to your iPad without the fat price tag. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Proton VPN's Black Friday sale slashes plans by up to 75%
Proton VPN plans start at just $2.49 per month during the company's biggest sale of the year.Save up to 75% with Proton VPN Black Friday deals - Image credit: ProtonBlack Friday VPN deals are ramping up, with several service providers launching official BF sales well ahead of the November 28 shopping event. Proton VPN is no exception, with discounts of up to 75% off in effect now.Save up to 75% on Proton VPN Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple tests customizable power button controls in iOS 26.2 beta
Macworld With the release of the first iOS 26.2 beta, we have already learned some of Apple’s plans for the future of its iPhone software. And it seems there’s more to come. Code discovered in today’s beta reveals that Apple has been experimenting with the ability to customize the side (Power) button, a feature that could work similarly to the Action Button introduced with iPhone 15 Pro. Currently, pressing and holding the side button on the iPhone activates Siri, while a double-press brings up the Apple Wallet interface for contactless readers. Both actions are tied to Apple’s own services. For the first time, it seems that Apple may be considering letting users choose alternative behaviors for this button. This change could be particularly significant in light of recent European regulations that push for greater user choice and interoperability. Apple has already made several adjustments to comply with EU requirements, including opening the iPhone to third-party app stores and allowing users to choose default browsers and payment systems. Allowing customization of the side button might be another step in that direction. In the EU, users can already set an alternative payment app to open with a double-click. While the feature isn’t functional yet in iOS 26.2 beta 1, internal code references suggest Apple is laying the groundwork. It’s unclear whether the company plans to release this option publicly. Some of the features that Apple tests internally never see the light of day. Based on the code, the implementation seems strictly focused on letting users choose which app they want to open with the button as opposed to the shortcuts and settings available with the Action button. We’ll be watching closely as Apple continues to develop and test iOS 26.2 over the coming weeks to see whether this Side Button customization makes its way into future betas. The update is expected to be released to the public in December.

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Apple gives Shazam for iOS a Liquid Glass makeover
Apple is rolling out a Liquid Glass redesign to another one of its apps. A new version of Shazam is now available on the App Store with a “sleek, new Liquid Glass look.” The update also makes it easier to quickly glance at the recent songs you’ve identified with Shazam right on the Home tab. more…

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5 Apple products I wish I never bought
Not every Apple product is a home run. Some are just plain bad. These are the worst Apple devices I've ever owned. (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 beta testers in Japan can install third party app stores
Japanese iPhone owners are able to start using alternative app storefronts on their devices, as the first iOS 26.2 developer beta grants permission for them to be installed.An Apple Store in Japan - Image credit: AppleThe Japan Fair Trade Commission will start to enforce the country's new Smartphone Act rules in December, forcing Apple to make changes to its software policies. It now appears that Apple is publicly testing one key change in preparation for rule enforcement.iOS 26.2 Beta 1 Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple supplier Skyworks forecasts upbeat quarterly results on strong mobile chip demand
Apple supplier Skyworks Solutions forecasted first-quarter revenue and profit exceeding Wall Street estimates on Tuesday, highlighting… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Xlr8yourmac goes offline, ending an era of DIY tinkering
If you know the site xlr8yourmac.com then this is a bad day. After close to three decades of Mac hardware reviews and support, the site appears to have shut down for good.xlr8yourmac has closed downI've probably only cracked open one Mac in my life, maybe added a video card twice, and haven't touched external SCSI since using a Macintosh IIfx with the funky active terminator. Mike Wuerthele, my co-author on this piece, on the other hand has done things like "shove in more hard drives into a Mac Pro than was thermally and electrically wise" and is our Thunderbolt and external storage guy.The site that helped us do this, the very hardware-focused xlr8yourmac.com has now gone offline, very recently. We reached out both to ask what has happened, and to express regret that such a long-standing and so very useful site is gone. And yesterday we found out that the email for the site is not taking emails either. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Peak Design Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 review: A minimalist charging solution
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros High charging speed Very long USB-C cable included High-quality workmanship Secure stand Cons No carrying case included Restrictions possible with protective cover for iPhone 17 Pro Our Verdict If you are looking for a slim, elegant and high-quality charging station, this Qi2 wireless charging stand combines minimalist design with modern technology. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed$79.95 Best Prices Today: Peak Design Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 Retailer Price $78.45 View Deal Peak Design $79.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Unpack and pause – that’s exactly what you do when you hold the charging station from Peak Design in your hands. Elegant and high quality – that’s the first impression. Made from solid aluminium and stainless steel, the Magsafe and Qi2-compatible Peak Design Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 is impressive across the board. The relatively high weight of 276 grams is also positive for such a slim charging station, as it is designed to stand reliably. Not only the high-quality choice of materials, but also the infinitely adjustable inclination, the rubberised base and the coated charging surface contribute to the positive image. Compatible with all Magsafe iPhones and the Qi2 charging standard, the Qi2 wireless charging stand supports charging at 15, 10, 7.5 and 5 watts. The scope of delivery includes a USB-C cable almost two metres long and clips to secure the cable when laying. Practice with surprises The Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 looks stylish with its dimensions of 14.1 × 6.9 × 1.6 centimetres. But how does it perform in practice? For practical use, you need a power supply unit with at least 20 watts of power. The iPhone – in our case an iPhone 15 and an iPhone 17 Pro – holds very well, both in portrait and landscape format. Power supply connected and measured: What percentage is the iPhone charged to after 30 minutes? First the tried and tested with an iPhone 15 – here we measured a value of 39 per cent, putting it in the top group. Then the iPhone 17 Pro – surprise: 44 per cent! Also a very good value, although the Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 does not support 25-watt charging. And another surprise: The Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 can also charge headphone charging cases, although Peak Design does not officially state this. Should you buy the Peak Design Wireless Charging Stand Qi2? The Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 from Peak Design is an elegant and high-quality charging station. When folded up, it can be stowed away to save space or easily taken with you when travelling. When unfolded, it offers a very stable stand – a rarity for this type of design. Typing lightly on the iPhone display is no problem, only with stronger pressure can the comparatively heavy construction slip. The hinge can withstand this without any problems. However, some iPhone 17 Pro cases can cause problems with the Magsafe contact surface, as protruding protective edges of the case protect the camera plateau and interfere with the contact. The long USB-C cable included in the scope of delivery is a very positive feature. However, anyone taking the charging station with them when travelling would appreciate a carrying case. You should definitely get a suitable bag to keep the Qi2 wireless charging stand looking good for a long time. We recommend the Tech Pouch Small, which also offers space for the power supply unit and the AirPods. In addition to the excellent workmanship, the high charging speed is particularly impressive. All of this justifies the top-end price of just under $80. View Peak Design Wireless Charging Stand Qi2 at Amazon

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