Apple today released watchOS 26, the newest version of the watchOS operating system that runs on the Apple Watch. ‌watchOS 26‌ is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6, all Apple Watch Ultra models, and the Apple Watch SE 2 and later. You'll also need an iPhone 11 or later with iOS 26.


‌watchOS 26‌ can be downloaded for free on an ‌iPhone‌ running ‌iOS 26‌ by opening up the Apple Watch app and going to General > Software Update, or initiating an update in the Settings app on the watch. To install the new software, the Apple Watch needs to have at least 50 percent battery and it needs to be placed on a charger.

‌watchOS 26‌ uses Apple's Liquid Glass design language that is also available across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. It brings Hypertension alerts to the Series 9 and later and the Ultra 2 and later, plus it introduces a new Sleep Score feature that's designed to help you better understand your sleep quality.

Workout Buddy provides a personalized workout experience that motivates you during exercise. There's also a new layout for the workout app and better integration with music. The Smart Stack features configurable widgets, and the Control Center is more customizable so you can add third-party app controls. Notes is available on the Apple Watch, and Messages supports Live Translation.

Apple added new watch faces, including Exactograph, Flow, and Waypoint (Ultra only), with new features also available for the Photos face. There's also a new Wrist Flick gesture to dismiss notifications one-handed, and it works on the Series 9 and later and the Ultra 2 and later. Apple's release notes for ‌watchOS 26‌ are below:

Liquid Glass
- A new design delivers a more expressive and seamless experience while maintaining the instant familiarity of watchOS and bringing more focus to your content
- Liquid Glass introduces more vitality to interactions across watchOS, refracts and reflects content in real time, and brings even more clarity to Smart Stack, Control Center, navigation, in-app controls, and more

Hypertension Notifications
- Hypertension notifications can alert you if consistent signs of chronic high blood pressure are observed over 30 day periods (Available on Apple Watch Series 9 and later, Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later)
- Hypertension notifications feature is intended for users 22 years or older, without a previous diagnosis of hypertension, and who are not pregnant

Sleep Score
- Sleep score provides a nightly score and classification of your sleep, based on sleep duration, bedtime consistency, and sleep interruptions to help you better understand the quality of your sleep and how to make it more restorative
- Sleep score can be viewed in the Sleep app, in the Smart Stack or as a watch face complication

Workout Buddy
- Personalized fitness experience with Apple Intelligence incorporates your workout data and fitness history for generative audible motivational insights during your workout
- Personalized insights are generated during key moments - like a pep talk to kick it off, your workout for splits and major milestones, and a summary of your effort once you finish - by rapidly analyzing and comparing your fitness history to your current workout
- Choose from three voices developed using a text-to-speech model with voice data from Apple Fitness+ trainers
- Your fitness data is processed privately and securely using your nearby Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone and Private Cloud Compute

Smart Stack
- Smart Stack has an improved prediction algorithm that deploys a Smart Stack hint when there is a suggestion that is immediately useful - for example, if you are in a remote location, you'll see a hint to start recording Backtrack
- Configurable widgets let you customize how widgets appear in the Smart Stack so you can see what's most important for you - for example, select a home accessory you'd like quick access to in the Home widget

Messages
- Live Translation in Messages uses Apple Intelligence and automatically translates incoming texts, including group messages, and sends a response in your preferred language -- it'll be translated when it's delivered (Available on Apple Watch Series 9 and later and Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later when paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone)
- Smart actions will be suggested in Messages using the context of a conversation, like starting a Check In when a friend asks a user to share when they arrive home
- Smart Replies get even more precise with an improved on-device language model that can generate relevant responses based on the content of a conversation

Watch Faces
- Exactograph is a modern re-imagination of a traditional regulator watch which separates out hours, minutes and seconds for more precise time keeping
- Flow uses Liquid Glass numerals that refract a fluid orb of color that responds to your wrist movements
- Waypoint acts as a live compass that will show where you are in relation to places you've saved in Maps or points of interest (Available on Apple Watch Ultra)
- Hermès Faubourg Party features animated shorts that appear based on the time of day or movements with a series of characters (Available on Apple Watch Hermès)
- The Photos face is enhanced by the new design with Liquid Glass, elevating numerals so you can see even more of your photos
- The Photos face will now shuffle images based on Featured content from Photos, so you can see images of your most meaningful moments every time you raise your wrist or tap the display
- Explore and discover watch faces more easily with the redesigned watch face gallery, with faces grouped into collections

Other features
- New layout of the Workout app makes it easier to use your favorite features - tap the icons in the four corners for quick access to metrics and views, experiences like Custom Workout and Pacer, media, Workout Buddy, and alerts
- Media experience in the Workout app is more integrated and intelligent, as Apple Music can now select the best playlist based on the workout type and your personal tastes, or you can see suggestions for playlists or podcasts based on what you've recently listened to during that particular workout type
- Notes app comes to Apple Watch, allowing you to access your notes right on your wrist, pin and unlock notes, complete checklist items, and create new notes with Siri, dictation, and the keyboard
- Wrist Flick is a new one-handed gesture you can use to dismiss a notification, mute incoming calls, silence timers and alarms, or return to your watch face (Available on Apple Watch Series 9 and later and Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later)
- Over 20 watch faces including Exactograph, Activity Digital, Reflections as well as Stopwatch and Timer apps, get 1Hz support that show seconds ticking in always-on mode (Available on Apple Watch Series 10 and later)
- Apple Watch can automatically adjust the volume of your notifications, incoming calls, timers, alarms, and Siri, based on the ambient noise in your environment
- Hold Assist and Call Screening come to the Phone app, when an iPhone is nearby. Hold Assist keeps your spot in line while you wait to speak to a live agent, and rings you to return to the call when the live agent is there. Call Screening lets you screen incoming calls from unknown numbers, getting you the caller's name and reason for the call before the phone rings

More information on all of the new features available in ‌watchOS 26‌ can be found in our watchOS 26 roundup.
This article, "Apple Releases watchOS 26 With Sleep Score, Workout Buddy, Hypertension Alerts, New Watch Faces and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple today released iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, the latest operating system updates designed for the iPhone and iPad. ‌iOS 26‌ and ‌iPadOS 26‌ are available for free on all compatible devices. You can download Apple's new software over-the-air by going to Settings > General > Software Update. It can take a few minutes for the updates to propagate to all users due to high demand on launch day.


‌iOS 26‌ is compatible with the ‌iPhone‌ 11 series and later, as well as the second-generation ‌iPhone‌ SE. If you have an ‌iPhone‌ XR, XS, or XS Max, iOS 18 is your last iOS update. As for the ‌iPad‌, ‌iPadOS 26‌ runs on all iPads that support iPadOS 18, with the exception of the 7th-generation ‌iPad‌. Apple has also released iOS 18.7 for those unable to upgrade to ‌iOS 26‌.

Apple's new updates introduce Liquid Glass, the new design language that features a translucent, glass-like look for icons, buttons, menus, and other interface elements across iOS and iPadOS. Liquid Glass is designed to behave like glass does in the real world, dynamically reflecting light and allowing bits of the background to show through.

Safari, Photos, and the Camera app have simplified navigation, and many apps feature new Apple Intelligence options. Messages, FaceTime, and Phone all support Live Translation, for example. Messages includes backgrounds and new group chat features, the Phone app can screen calls for you and take over holding when you need to wait for someone.

Visual Intelligence can now understand what's on your screen and answer questions about what you're looking at, and Apple has improved Genmoji and Image Playground with new features. The Wallet app is smarter than before and can track all of your orders, and Apple Music includes a useful new AutoMix feature for song transitions.

On the ‌iPad‌, Apple overhauled multitasking and windowing for a more Mac-like experience. ‌iPad‌ apps can be placed anywhere and they have menu bars. The Phone app is now available on the ‌iPad‌, as is a new Games app. The ‌iPad‌ also has almost all of the ‌iOS 26‌ features. Apple's full release notes for ‌iOS 26‌ are below.

Design

• Liquid Glass makes interactions across iOS more delightful, refracts and reflects content in real time, and brings even more focus to what you're viewing on your screen


• Adaptive time on the Lock Screen fluidly resizes to the available space on your Lock Screen, complementing the subjects of your photos and adapting as notifications and Live Activities appear


• Spatial scenes let you add a new 3D effect to your photo wallpapers, bringing them to life when you move your iPhone


• App icons get a fresh new look with Liquid Glass, and there are more ways to customize them with updated light or dark appearances, new color-tinted icons, and a new clear look


• Animated album art makes music playback more immersive, with full screen artist-designed animations on supported albums

Visual Intelligence

• Learn more about the content in any app by pressing the same buttons you use to take a screenshot


• Highlight to search for something specific on your screen


• Jump into Google search results based on the content on your screen, find related items from your most-used third-party apps, or ask ChatGPT about what you're looking at

Live Translation

• In Messages, automatically translate incoming texts, including group messages, and send a response in your preferred language - it'll be translated when it's delivered


• In FaceTime, live translated captions appear on screen during the call


• In Phone, audio is translated and spoken out loud in real time, and you can follow along with a transcription when the call is on speaker


• With AirPods, hear a translation hands-free when someone nearby speaks to you in a different language

Shortcuts

• Intelligent actions let you take advantage of Writing Tools, Image Playground, and other Apple Intelligence features within your shortcut


• "Use model" is a new action that lets you tap directly into Apple Intelligence models to get responses that feed into the rest of your shortcut, or use ChatGPT if you want to tap into its broad world knowledge and expertise

Genmoji & Image Playground

• Make Genmoji by mixing two emoji together, or by combining an emoji with a description to create what you have in mind


• Choose expressions for your Genmoji of people, making characters look happy, shocked, and more


• Personal attributes like hairstyle and facial hair can be modified for the Genmoji that are inspired by people from your Photos library


• More styles with ChatGPT lets you explore additional styles like Oil Painting and Anime, or you can tap Any Style to describe the image and style you want

Camera

• Streamlined design makes it even easier to access the Photo and Video capture modes, with other modes still just a swipe away


• Lens cleaning hints alert you when your lens is smudged so you can capture the clearest possible photo (iPhone 15 and later)


• New AirPods gesture lets you take a photo or start recording video just by pressing the stem on AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 and later

Photos

• Separate tabs for Library and Collections offers easier navigation, and you can access Search in every view


• Collections view can be customized with three different layout options, and it's easy to collapse and reorder the collections


• Recognition for events like concerts and sports lets you see the details of an event and access related content

Phone

• New unified layout option brings together your Favorites, Recents, and Voicemails


• Call Screening lets you screen incoming calls from unknown numbers, getting you the caller's name and reason for the call before the phone rings


• Screened calls from unknown numbers can be placed in a new area of your call list so they're out of your way


• Hold Assist keeps your spot in line while you wait to speak to a live agent, and rings you to return to the call when the live agent is there

Messages

• Screening for unknown senders helps you to stay in control of who can reach you, and puts screened messages in a new area of your conversation list so they're out of your way


• Backgrounds can be added to conversations to make them more personal, with the option to use built-in backgrounds, your own photos, or images made with Image Playground


• Polls can help you find out everyone's availability for an upcoming dinner plan or decide on a group gift


• Typing indicators in groups make it easy to know exactly who is about to chime in

CarPlay

• A new design with Liquid Glass helps make each interaction area of the Dashboard distinct, and provides a new tab bar design for easy navigation in apps


• Compact design for incoming calls makes it easy to keep your eyes on the upcoming turn in your favorite navigation app


• Tapbacks in Messages gives you a simple way to react to messages while driving, like with a thumbs up or a heart


• Pinned conversations appear at the top of Messages, making it easy to get to your most frequent conversations


• Widgets stacks can be found to the left of the Dashboard, so you can stay on top of your favorite apps at a glance


• Live Activities appear automatically on the Dashboard, making it easy to keep track of real time events on the go

Maps

• Visited Places gives you the option to allow your iPhone to detect the places you visit, like a restaurant or shop, so you can easily find them again in the Maps library and share them easily


• Preferred routes improve your frequent drives by learning the routes you take between places you regularly visit, like your commute from home to work

Music

• Lyrics Translation and Pronunciation help you understand the meaning behind your favorite songs and makes it easy to sing along, even if you don't know the language


• AutoMix transitions one song into the next like a DJ does, time stretching and beatmatching to deliver a continuous playback experience


• Pin songs, albums, playlists, and more at the top of Library for quick, easy playback

Wallet

• Updated boarding passes give you more access to timely and relevant information about your flights and airports, as well as quick access to airline app features


• Order tracking (beta) uses Apple Intelligence to find emails sent by either merchants or delivery carriers and brings your full order details, progress notifications, and more into one place in the Wallet app


• Installment financing options from your bank or card provider for your credit and debit card purchases are accessible when you pay with Apple Pay in-store on iPhone

Apple Games

• New app is the all-in-one destination for gaming on your iPhone, helping you jump back into the games you love, discover new favorites, and play with friends in new ways


• Challenge friends, track scores in real time, and see what else your friends are playing


• Access your entire game library, including new and past downloads from the App Store and Apple Arcade, and launch when you are ready to play


• Recommendations for new games are based on the games you love to play

Protecting Kids Online

• Communication Requests give kids the ability to send requests to their parents when there are new phone numbers they want to be able to communicate with


• Convert existing accounts to Child Accounts easily to take full advantage of all available child safety protections


• Age-appropriate experiences in apps gives parents the option to enable kids to share their age range with third-party apps, so they can access content and features suited to their age group


• Communication Safety expands to intervene when nudity is detected on live FaceTime calls, and to blur out nudity in Shared Albums in Photos

Accessibility

• Accessibility Nutrition Labels in App Store product pages tell you if accessibility features like VoiceOver, Voice Control, and Captions are available within apps and games before you download them


• Accessibility Reader makes text in any app easier to read by giving you new ways to customize text with extensive options for font, color, and spacing, as well as support for Spoken Content


• Braille Access helps you take notes, read documents, access Live Captions, launch apps, and perform various other tasks effortlessly with your connected braille display

Other

• Preview is a new app on iPhone dedicated to viewing and editing PDFs, with powerful features like AutoFill, a document scanner, and export options


• FaceTime has a reimagined landing page that features personalized Contact Posters for your recent callers and video messages that play as you scroll


• Reminder Suggestions use Apple Intelligence to identify relevant tasks when you share an email, website, note, or other text to the Reminders app


• Local capture records the high-quality audio and video from your iPhone while on any video conferencing call, letting you produce an interview or podcast with the clearest recordings


• Audio input picker in Control Center makes it easy to choose the right microphone for each app, including on the web


• Estimated time to charge lets you know how long it will take for your iPhone to charge


• Adaptive power learns your typical battery usage and, on higher usage days, makes automatic adjustments to help you extend your battery life throughout the day (iPhone 15 Pro and later)


• Blood pressure logging experience in the Health app can send you reminders to measure your blood pressure using a third-party cuff and create a PDF report for your healthcare provider


• New Workout tab in the Fitness app brings workout tracking, so you can track metrics like pace and distance, and even more if you have a compatible heart rate monitor like AirPods Pro 3. If you have an Apple Watch, you can take advantage of the larger screen while using features like building a Custom Workout


• Adaptive Temperature automatically adjusts your thermostat to your preferred temperature when you're on your way home, and adjusts to save energy when you leave for the day or go on vacation


• Custom snooze options let you adjust how long you can snooze when your alarm goes off, with options between 1 and 15 minutes


• Password History provides a timeline of changes you've made to an account in Passwords, including a history of past passwords and generated strong passwords


• Notes lets you import and export Markdown formatted files

And Apple's iPad-specific notes:

Windowing

• Powerful new windowing system allows you to fluidly resize apps and place windows exactly where you want


• Window controls makes it easier to close, minimize, and make apps full screen


• Window tiling lets you arrange apps side by side, in thirds, or in quarters so you can work across more apps at once


• Exposé lets you see all your open windows at a glance


• Menu bar offers easy access to all of an app's commands, or you can use search to quickly find a specific command

Files

• Updated list view with resizable columns and collapsible folders displays even more of your files and their details


• Open with allows you to choose the app you open a file in and you can set the default app for a file or file type


• Folders in the Dock let you access your files and folders from anywhere

Audio & Video Recording

• Audio input picker in Control Center makes it easy to choose the right microphone for each app, including on the web


• Local capture records the high-quality audio and video from your iPad while on any video conferencing call, letting you produce an interview or podcast


• Background tasks allow for long running tasks to continue when you switch apps and are displayed as Live Activities so you always know what's running

New Apps on iPadOS

• Preview is a dedicated app to view and edit PDFs that offers full support for Apple Pencil and powerful features like AutoFill, a document scanner, image editing, and various options for export


• Journal is an app where you can jot down your thoughts, illustrate, and capture moments using photos, videos, audio recordings, places, and more. Journal with your keyboard, or create entries in your own handwriting using Apple Pencil. Multiple journals let you keep entries for different aspects of your life separate, flexible layouts make entries feel beautiful and personal, and a beautiful map view makes it easy to find entries based on their location


• Apple Games is the all-in-one destination for gaming on your iPad. Access your entire game library, including new and past downloads from the App Store and Apple Arcade, and find recommendations for new games based on ones you love. Plus, challenge friends, track scores in real time, and see what else your friends are playing


• Phone app lets you make and take calls from your iPhone and use new features like Call Screening, Hold Assist, and Live Translation

More Information and Discussion

You can find a full list of what's new in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 in our comprehensive feature roundups. You can also chat about all of the new features in our iOS 26 forum and our iPadOS 26 forum.
This article, "Apple Releases iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 With New Liquid Glass Design" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple today released macOS Tahoe 26, the newest version of the macOS operating system designed to run on the Mac. macOS Tahoe is a free update that can be downloaded today on compatible Macs. macOS Tahoe can run on all Apple silicon Macs, as well as the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro, the 2020 13-inch ‌MacBook Pro‌, the 2020 and later iMac, and the 2019 and later Mac Pro.


Mac users can download the macOS Tahoe update by using the Software Update section of System Settings. While you're installing macOS Tahoe, take a look at our macOS Tahoe roundup to get an in-depth overview of all of the new features.

macOS Tahoe adopts Apple's Liquid Glass design, and the translucent, glass-like look extends to desktop icons, folders, the Dock, in-app navigation, menus, toolbars, the Control Center, and more. The menu bar and Control Center are more customizable and folders can use custom colors and emoji.

Spotlight got a major update with improved search and the ability to execute hundreds of actions without ever having to open a Mac app. Safari has an updated Tab design, Live Activities now sync over from the iPhone, the Phone app has expanded to the Mac, and there's a new Games app. Apple's release notes for macOS Tahoe are below.

New design featuring Liquid Glass
The new design makes the iconic elements of macOS fresh yet familiar. A transparent menubar makes your display feel larger. Apps with Liquid Glass sidebars and toolbars reflect and refract what you're viewing, drawing more focus to your content. And you can personalize icons and widgets, giving them a light, dark, tinted, or new clear look to match your style.

Customize the look of folders
To make folders easy to recognize, you can give them a distinctive appearance. You can now choose a unique color and add emoji or symbol

Personalize Control Center
Enjoy more ways to customize which controls appear in Control Center, and how they're laid out. Add new controls from Mac and even iPhone apps, including from your favorite third-party apps. Arrange them however you like, and even create pages of controls. You can also place controls right into the menu bar for easier access.

Communicate seamlessly across languages with Live Translation
With Apple Intelligence, Live Translation helps you automatically translate text in Messages, follow along with live-translated captions in FaceTime calls, or listen to a real-time audio transcription spoken aloud in the Phone app. It works entirely on-device so your personal conversations stay private.

Create incredibly powerful shortcuts
The Shortcuts app is supercharged with Apple Intelligence. Intelligent actions can summarize text, create images, or tap directly into Apple Intelligence models. And with automations on Mac, you can make shortcuts run automatically based on conditions, such as the time of day, file or folder updates, connecting to an external monitor, and more.

New options for making Genmoji
Mix your favorite emoji together with descriptions to make something brand new. And get more control over Genmoji inspired by family and friends, with new options like hairstyle customization to help you match their latest look.

More ways to create the perfect image in Image Playground
Get more control over images inspired by people from your photo library, with new options to change their expressions or hairstyle to match their latest look. You can also access new ChatGPT styles, like Watercolor or Oil Painting, and use Any Style to describe what you want.

See Live Activities from iPhone on Mac
Continuity gets even better with Live Activities. Easily stay on top of activities that you started on iPhone, like tracking the progress of your order from Uber Eats, right from the menu bar on Mac. You can even click on the Live Activity to open the app in iPhone Mirroring.

All-new Phone app
Powered by Continuity, the new Phone app for Mac lets you relay cellular calls from your nearby iPhone. Call Screening can help you manage unwanted calls by finding out who's calling and why, without interrupting you. You can also access familiar features--including Recents, Contacts, and Voicemails--and new ones like Hold Assist and Live Translation.

Focus your Messages conversations
To help you focus on what matters, new screening tools filter out unknown numbers from your conversation list until you mark them as known, and on-device spam detection helps filter out spam. You can also add a background to your conversation to give it a distinctive look. And send polls to friends and family over iMessage and watch the votes come in live.

Discover new ways to browse in Spotlight
Spotlight makes it easy to see all your apps, locate recent or suggested files, discover actions you can take, and view your clipboard history. Just launch Spotlight from the menu bar and select the Applications, Files, Actions, or Clipboard button, which will appear next to the search field.

Take actions directly from Spotlight
You can now take hundreds of new system and app actions right from Spotlight, such as sending messages, creating an event, and running shortcuts, all without lifting your hands off the keyboard. And to get things done faster, Spotlight automatically assigns quick keys to actions you take, so you can execute them in just a few characters.

Experience the new Apple Games app
The Apple Games app is your one-stop gaming destination. Discover the latest updates across your games, such as in-game events, major updates, and games your friends are playing. Access your entire game library. And compete with friends in challenges.

Get More Info

For a deeper look at all of the new features in macOS Tahoe, we have a dedicated macOS Tahoe roundup, plus a macOS Tahoe forum for discussing the changes.
This article, "macOS Tahoe Now Available With Liquid Glass Design, Phone App, Spotlight Actions and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Along with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, Apple today released new HomePod 26 software for the ‌HomePod‌ and HomePod mini.


‌HomePod‌ Software 26 adds support for crossfade, a feature that's designed to more smoothly transition between songs. It also includes AirPlay improvements, with Apple's release notes available below.

Software version 26 includes support for crossfade with Apple Music and AirPlay improvements. This update also includes bug fixes and stability improvements.

- Crossfade on HomePod smoothly transitions between songs by fading out the currently playing song while fading in the next so the music never stops.
- When using AirPlay to play audio on HomePod, you can now ask Siri on HomePod to play to another HomePod speaker in your home.

‌‌HomePod‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌ software is installed automatically on the ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌HomePod‌‌‌‌ unless the feature is disabled‌‌‌‌, but the ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌HomePod‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌ can also be manually updated in the Home app on iPhone, iPad, or Mac by tapping on the More button, choosing Home Settings, and then selecting the Software Update option.
This article, "Apple Releases HomePod Software 26 With Crossfade and AirPlay Improvements" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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We're tracking record low prices across the entire M3 iPad Air lineup today, with discounts available at both Amazon and Best Buy. This sale includes savings on both Wi-Fi and cellular models of the tablet, and it's been a few weeks since we last saw these all-time low prices.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Prices start at $449.00 for the 128GB Wi-Fi 11-inch M3 iPad Air, down from $599.00. Across the board these are all $150 discounts on the M3 iPad Air, and each one is a match for the best-ever price seen on these tablets.




Our list below focuses on Wi-Fi models, but you'll also find many cellular models on sale at $150 off right now. The 128GB cellular 11-inch iPad Air is available for $599.00 and the 128GB cellular 13-inch iPad Air is available for $799.00, both representing record low prices.

11-inch M3 iPad Air

• 128GB Wi-Fi - $449.00, down from $599.00


• 256GB Wi-Fi - $549.00, down from $699.00


• 512GB Wi-Fi - $749.00, down from $899.00


• 1TB Wi-Fi - $949.00, down from $1,099.00

13-inch M3 iPad Air

• 128GB Wi-Fi - $649.00, down from $799.00


• 256GB Wi-Fi - $749.00, down from $899.00


• 512GB Wi-Fi - $949.00, down from $1,099.00


• 1TB Wi-Fi - $1,149.00, down from $1,299.00

If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.

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This article, "M3 iPad Air Gets Massive $150 Discounts Across Entire Lineup" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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The iPhone 17 launches this week with Apple's biggest display upgrade to a non-Pro model in years, some major camera improvements, faster performance, and big battery life gains.


Beyond these headline features, how much of an improvement does the ‌‌iPhone 17‌‌ really offer? This guide breaks down the differences between the iPhone 16 and ‌‌iPhone 17‌ to help you understand all of the changes and determine whether these enhancements are enough to justify making the switch‌.

This guide focuses on the ‌‌iPhone 17‌ versus the ‌iPhone 16‌‌, but to learn about how it compares to the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro, see our other comparison guide.

‌iPhone 16‌ (2024)	‌iPhone 17‌ (2025)
6.1-inch display	6.3-inch display
	Slimmer bezels
60Hz display	ProMotion for refresh rates up to 120Hz
	Always-On display
2,000 nits peak brightness (outdoor)	3,000 nits peak brightness (outdoor)
Ceramic Shield front	Ceramic Shield 2 front (3x better scratch resistance)
A18 chip (N3E)	A19 chip (N3P)
5-core GPU	5-core GPU with Neural Accelerators
Up to 22-hour battery life	Up to 30-hour battery life
12-megapixel front-facing camera	18-megapixel front-facing camera
Tap to zoom on front-facing camera	Tap to zoom and rotate on front-facing camera
	Center Stage front-facing camera
	Ultra-stabilized video on front-facing camera
	Dual Capture (up to 4K Dolby Vision at 30 fps)
12-megapixel Ultra Wide	48-megapixel Ultra Wide
MagSafe wireless charging up to 22W with 30W adapter or higher	‌MagSafe‌ wireless charging up to 25W with 30W adapter or higher
Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes with 20W adapter or higher	Up to 50% charge in 20 minutes with 40W adapter or higher
	Apple N1 chip for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity	Bluetooth 6 connectivity
Available in Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, and Black	Available in Lavender, Sage, Mist Blue, White, and Black

The ‌iPhone 17‌ is a fairly substantial year-over-year update. The jump to a larger 6.3-inch display with ProMotion, 48-megapixel Ultra Wide camera, longer battery life, and new A19 chip makes it the most significant base-model iPhone upgrade in recent years. It offers great value for money at $799, with many of the new features that come to the other more expensive models this year.

Most ‌iPhone 16‌ owners will notice meaningful differences, but naturally those with an ‌iPhone‌ 14 or older will see a more dramatic dramatic leap. Buyers who want a modern ‌iPhone‌ with a Pro-level display and excellent cameras at a lower price should strongly consider the upgrade, but ‌iPhone 16‌ owners satisfied with their device may find less urgency to switch. Nevertheless, the upgrade is relatively substantial.
This article, "iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 17 Buyer's Guide: 20 Upgrades Compared" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Woot this week is back with a massive sale on Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop bands for Apple Watch, and we're also tracking the first ever discounts on Beats' new iPhone 17 cases.

Beats iPhone 17 Cases

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Woot. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Amazon today has some of the first discounts on the new Beats iPhone 17 cases, with up to 32 percent off select accessories. This also includes a discount on the Beats USB-C to USB-C Woven Cable on Amazon.

• Beats iPhone 17 Rugged Case - $60.16, down from $79.00


• Beats iPhone 17 Pro Rugged Case - $60.16, down from $79.00


• Beats iPhone 17 Pro Max Rugged Case - $60.20, down from $79.00


• Beats iPhone 17 Pro Kickstand Case - $48.06, down from $59.00


• Beats USB-C to USB-C Woven Cable - $12.99, down from $18.99

Apple Watch Bands

You can get the Solo Loop for just $14.99 ($34 off) and the Braided Solo Loop for $29.99 ($69 off). All bands in this sale are in brand new condition and come with a one-year Apple limited warranty, and they will all be compatible with the new Apple Watch Series 11.



Shoppers should note that this sale is focused on colors of the Braided Solo Loop and Solo Loop that Apple has stopped selling, and it doesn't include any of the new band colors. That being said, all of the bands in this sale are in new condition.

The entire sale is focused on Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop Apple Watch bands, so you'll need to know the size that works best for you before you buy. Apple has a measurement tool on its website that you can use to determine your exact size.

Solo Loop

• Black/White Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00


• Blue Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00


• Green Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00


• Purple Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00


• Red/Orange/Yellow Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00

Braided Solo Loop

• Black/White Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00


• Blue Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00


• Green Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00


• Purple Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00


• Red/Orange/Yellow Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00


• Pride - $29.99, down from $99.00

If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.

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This article, "Woot Takes 70% Off Solo/Braided Loops for Your New Apple Watch Series 11, Plus First Deals on Beats iPhone 17 Cases" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Ahead of watchOS 26 being released today, Apple has enabled the new Hypertension Notifications feature on compatible Apple Watch models in the U.S. and many other countries.


The feature received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last week, and it is now functional on the watchOS 26 and iOS 26 Release Candidate versions, just hours before the software updates are set to be released to the general public.

Apple said the feature will be available in more than 150 countries and regions this month, pending regulatory clearance. Today, it confirmed that it has received marketing authorization from "other global health authorities," including in the EU. MacRumors forum members said the feature has gone live in places such as the UK, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Poland, the Netherlands, Hong Kong, and others.

The feature can alert users if signs of chronic high blood pressure/hypertension are detected, according to Apple. Based on data from the Apple Watch's optical heart sensor, the feature can analyze how a user's blood vessels respond to the beats of the heart. The algorithm works passively in the background, reviewing data over 30-day periods, and it will notify users if it detects consistent signs of hypertension.

Apple said the feature underwent "rigorous scientific validation." According to the company, it was developed with advanced machine learning and training data from multiple studies totaling more than 100,000 participants, and its performance was then validated in a clinical study of more than 2,000 participants.
This article, "Apple Watch's New Hypertension Notifications Feature is Now Available" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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In the review video below, our own Dan Barbera shares his thoughts on the AirPods Pro 3, after testing them for nearly a week.


AirPods Pro 3 upgrades are more noticeable than you might think. Everything from sound quality to Active Noise Cancellation to Transparency mode are improved, and the new foam-infused silicone ear tips make for the best fit yet.

Dan said the AirPods Pro 3 deliver a more dynamic sound profile, and he found that the ear buds stay in his ears much better compared to previous AirPods Pro.

He tested the new heart rate monitoring feature on the AirPods Pro 3, and he said the results are surprisingly accurate for such a small in-ear sensor. You can wear the AirPods Pro 3 and the Apple Watch together to receive an even more accurate heart rate reading during your workouts. On your iPhone, you can also start many types of workouts in the Fitness app while wearing just your AirPods Pro 3, with no Apple Watch necessary.

Dan said Active Noise Cancellation is noticeably better compared to the AirPods Pro 2, through a combination of improved microphones and computational audio improvements. In addition, the new foam-infused ear tips provide greater passive noise isolation.

Transparency mode has also been refined, with Dan saying his voice and others sound more natural now during in-person conversations and phone calls.

Apple says AirPods Pro 3 offer up to 8 hours of listening time on a single charge, with Active Noise Cancellation enabled. That is up from 6 hours with the AirPods Pro 2. Dan tested the AirPods Pro 3 on his 5-hour flight home from Apple Park last week, and he said they lasted the entire flight, and he appreciated the improved Active Noise Cancellation. More time is needed for thorough testing of battery life, but he has no complaints so far.

Here is our recap of eight new AirPods Pro 3 features and changes:

1. 2× more active noise cancellation: Apple says the AirPods Pro 3 offer up to 2× more active noise cancellation than the AirPods Pro 2, and up to 4× more than the original AirPods Pro. In fact, the AirPods Pro 3 offer the best active noise cancellation of any in-ear wireless headphones, according to Apple.


2. Improved sound quality: AirPods Pro 3 feature a new acoustic architecture, with next-generation Adaptive EQ, that "transforms the bass response, widens the soundstage so users hear every instrument, and brings vivid vocal clarity to higher frequencies across music, shows, and calls," according to Apple.


3. Longer battery life per charge: Apple says AirPods Pro 3 offer up to 8 hours of listening time on a single charge, with Active Noise Cancellation enabled. That is up from 6 hours with the AirPods Pro 2. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 3 charging case offers up to 24 hours of total listening time with Active Noise Cancellation enabled, whereas the AirPods Pro 2 case provides up to 30 hours of total listening time with Active Noise Cancellation enabled.


4. Heart rate monitoring during workouts: Like the Powerbeats Pro 2, the AirPods Pro 3 feature a heart rate sensor that shines pulsating infrared light to measure light absorption in blood flow. AirPods Pro 3 users can track their heart rate and calories burned, close their Move ring, and earn awards for 50 different workout types in the Fitness app on an iPhone, with no Apple Watch required.


5. Improved fit: Apple says AirPods Pro 3 are the "most secure and best-fitting AirPods ever." The earbuds are slightly smaller, and the external design of each ear tip was "aligned to the center of the body for increased stability."


6. Improved water resistance: AirPods Pro 3 have IP57-rated sweat and water resistance, up from IP54 for the AirPods Pro 2. By definition, an IP57 rating means the AirPods Pro 3 could withstand temporary immersion in up to one meter of water, but Apple's marketing only promises that they "can handle the sweatiest workouts and even a sudden downpour."


7. U2 chip: The AirPods Pro 3 charging case is equipped with Apple's second-generation U2 chip for Ultra Wideband, allowing the Precision Finding feature to work at longer distances in the Find My app.


8. XXS ear tip option: AirPods Pro 3 come with new XXS silicone ear tips, along with the same XS, S, M, L sizes included with the AirPods Pro 2. Apple says the tips are now infused with foam for greater passive noise isolation.

AirPods Pro 3 are available to pre-order now, and they launch on Friday, September 19.

Some other media outlets and YouTube channels have shared AirPods Pro 3 reviews too.






This article, "AirPods Pro 3 Video Review: Is It Worth Upgrading Your AirPods Pro 2?" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Following three months of beta testing, iOS 26 will be released today, September 15. The update is compatible with the iPhone 11 series and newer, and it will be available to install via the Settings app, under General → Software Update.


Below, we have highlighted eight new features included in iOS 26. Even more new features and changes are outlined in Apple's release notes for the update.

Some of the features are only available on newer iPhone models.

Liquid Glass

iOS 26 introduces an all-new Liquid Glass design with translucent menus, buttons, and icons.

Apple describes Liquid Glass as "a new translucent material that reflects and refracts its surroundings, bringing greater focus to content, and delivering a new level of vitality across controls, navigation, app icons, widgets, and more."

Lock Screen Enhancements

On iOS 26, the Lock Screen's clock automatically adapts to fill the empty space, and you can view full-screen animated album art for supported Apple Music songs.

New iMessage Features

Here are some of the key new features and changes in the Messages app on iOS 26:

• Backgrounds: You can now add a background to any conversation, and all participants will see it. You can choose from Apple's selection of backgrounds, or you can set any of your own photos as a background. You can turn off conversation backgrounds in the Settings app if desired.


• Polls: You can now create polls in group chats, allowing people to vote on topics or questions, such as which restaurant to go to. Apple Intelligence can detect when a poll might come in handy and suggest one.


• Apple Cash in group chats: You can now send and receive Apple Cash in group chats.


• Typing indicators in group chats: You can now see who is typing in group chats.


• "Add Contact" button in group chats: This button makes it easier to add people to the Contacts app in group chats.


• "Select" option: When you tap and hold on a message bubble, a new "Select" option appears. Tapping on it allows you to select a portion of text in a message, whereas you could previously only copy an entire message.


• Unknown sender screening: When turned on, this setting automatically moves messages from unknown senders to the Unknown Senders folder, and hides notifications for them until you accept them.

Call Screening and Hold Assist

iOS 26 adds a couple of useful features to the Phone app: Call Screening and Hold Assist.

Call Screening is an opt-in setting that asks unknown callers for their name, and the reason why they are calling. And with Hold Assist, your iPhone can automatically wait on hold for you during a call, and notify you when the agent on the other line is ready.

Adaptive Power Mode

iOS 26 introduces an Adaptive Power Mode on the iPhone, alongside the existing Low Power Mode.

Apple says Adaptive Power Mode can make "performance adjustments" when necessary to extend an iPhone's battery life, including slightly lowering the display brightness, allowing some activities to "take longer," and automatically turning on Low Power Mode when the iPhone's remaining battery life reaches the 20% mark.

Adaptive Power Mode is only available on the iPhone 15 Pro models and newer. The setting can be turned on in the Settings app, under Battery → Power Mode.

AutoMix

A new AutoMix feature in the Apple Music app can seamlessly transition from one song to the next, like a DJ would. AutoMix replaces the previous Crossfade feature.

Preview App

iOS 26 extends a version of the Apple's Preview app from the Mac to the iPhone, providing you with a built-in app to edit and mark up PDFs and images.

CarPlay Upgrades

When you are using CarPlay with an iPhone running iOS 26, the new Liquid Glass design extends to the CarPlay interface. Like on the iPhone, the new look includes more shimmery app icons and translucent user interface elements.

Starting with iOS 26, you can respond to messages with standard Tapbacks like a heart, thumbs up, or exclamation marks directly through CarPlay.



You can now view your pinned conversations in the Messages app on CarPlay.


CarPlay has a new compact view for incoming phone calls, so that you can still see other information on the screen, such as turn-by-turn directions.

CarPlay's Dashboard screen can now show Live Activities, letting you keep track of things like a flight's arrival time at a glance.


The regular version of CarPlay now has a widgets screen, for things like calendar appointments and HomeKit accessory controls.


iPhone users will be able to wirelessly stream videos to the CarPlay screen using AirPlay, according to Apple. For safety reasons, video playback will only be available when the vehicle is parked, to prevent distracted driving. The connected iPhone will be able to detect when the vehicle is in motion and end playback.

Automakers need to add support for this feature, so it might be limited to newer vehicles and take some time to roll out.

More

Read our iOS 26 roundup linked below to learn more about the update.
This article, "iOS 26 Available Today With These 8 New Features" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple's new iPhone 17 models are proving to be more popular than their predecessors over the first pre-order weekend, both in terms of production and delivery times, but major questions remain about the success of the iPhone Air, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.


In a new post on X, Kuo said that preorder demand for the ‌iPhone 17‌ lineup has outpaced last year's iPhone 16 models. ‌iPhone 17‌, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max production for the third quarter of this year is approximately 25% higher than their predecessors last year, alongside stronger pre-order demand across all three models. The iPhone 17 Pro Max remains the most in-demand model; production is approximately 60% higher than that of the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

The ‌iPhone Air‌ is the only model of the four new devices that is readily available at launch. While this superficially suggests even weaker demand than the ‌iPhone 16‌ Plus saw last year, Kuo noted that production of the ‌iPhone Air‌ is set to be approximately 3x higher than that of the ‌iPhone 16‌ Plus.

He added that there is no direct historical comparator for its positioning in the lineup, making it hard to assess how it will perform at this early stage. Kuo speculates that while the ‌iPhone Air‌ "doesn't look compelling on paper," the in-store hands-on experience could succeed in convincing customers to buy the device.
This article, "Kuo: High Demand for iPhone 17 Models, But Questions Remain About iPhone Air" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Update 10:06 a.m.: iOS 26 is rolling out now, though it may take a bit for all users to see it so keep checking!


Today's the day! Apple is about to release iOS 26, which will deliver the biggest redesign since iOS 7 and bring a range of new features and improvements to iPhones worldwide. It's Apple's biggest software update of the year, and Apple announced at last week's iPhone event that it will be releasing iOS 26 sometime today – Monday, September 15.


Based on past releases, the update is likely to drop at around 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time/1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Apple's own websites for countries around the world also suggest a 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time release, with Apple's site for India listing a September 15 launch while the company's Indonesian page lists a September 16 release, pointing to a narrow window around 10:00 a.m. Pacific to line up with time zone differences.

To give iPhone users globally an idea of when iOS 26 should become available as an over-the-air update, we've compiled the below list of time zone conversions for several countries. This list isn't exhaustive, so please verify the exact time for your specific location, and bear in mind that there could always be a delay as Apple prepares its servers for rollout.

Be Prepared to Wait

When iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 become available as an over-the-air update, make sure your device is fully charged before you start the process over Wi-Fi, as it may take some time to complete. To check that the update is available, go to Settings ➝ General ➝ Software Update, and wait a moment for your device to contact Apple's servers. If you're in no rush, you can wait for iOS 26 to be delivered to your iPhone when you next plug it into your computer.

• iOS 26 Available Today With These 8 New Features


• Does My iPhone Support iOS 26?


• How to Get Your iPhone Ready for iOS 26

On that note, a word of caution: During the initial rollout of major software updates like iOS 26, Apple users may experience slower download speeds and sluggish performance when trying to update their devices. This is largely due to the high demand on Apple's servers, as millions of users worldwide attempt to download the update simultaneously.

The surge in traffic can overwhelm network capacity, leading to delays in downloading or installing the update. To avoid these potential issues, you may want to wait a day or two before installing the update, allowing server congestion to subside and ensuring a smoother upgrade experience.
This article, "Here's When iOS 26 Rolls Out Today in Every Time Zone [Update: Out Now!]" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple TV+ is having a big night at the 77th Emmy Awards, with drama series Severance and comedy series The Studio picking up multiple wins.


Severance revolves around the mysterious company Lumon Industries. The company's employees cannot recall any memories about their personal lives while they are at work, and they cannot remember anything about the workplace when they leave the office. The series has an ensemble cast that has included Adam Scott, Britt Lower, Zach Cherry, John Turturro, Tramell Tillman, Patricia Arquette, Christopher Walken, and others.

The Studio is a satirical series about Hollywood's film industry. Seth Rogen stars as Matt Remick, the newly-appointed head of the embattled Continental Studios, with other cast members including Catherine O'Hara, Kathryn Hahn, Ike Barinholtz, and Chase Sui Wonders. Guest stars include Bryan Cranston, Zoë Kravitz, Ron Howard, Olivia Wilde, Dave Franco, Martin Scorsese, Anthony Mackie, Steve Buscemi, and many others.

Here are some of the key awards that Apple TV+ shows and their cast members won:

• The Studio — Outstanding Comedy Series


• Tramell Tillman (as Seth Milchick) — Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series (Severance)


• Britt Lower (as Helly Riggs) — Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series (Severance)


• Merritt Wever (as Gretchen George) — Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series (Severance)


• Seth Rogen (as Matt Remick) — Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series (The Studio)


• Seth Rogen and Ryan Goldberg — Outstanding Directing For A Comedy Series (The Studio episode "The Oner")


• Seth Rogen, Ryan Goldberg, Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory, and Frida Perez — Outstanding Writing For A Comedy Series (The Studio episode "The Promotion")


• Bryan Cranston (as Griffin Mill) — Outstanding Guest Actor In A Comedy Series (The Studio)


• Adam Randall — Outstanding Directing For A Drama Series (Slow Horses episode "Hello Goodbye")

It was not a perfect night for Apple TV+, though. Notably, Severance was nominated for Outstanding Drama Series, but The Pitt won. Adam Scott missed out on Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series, which went to The Pitt's Noah Wyle.






This article, "Apple TV+ Shows 'Severance' and 'The Studio' Win Big at 77th Emmys" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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T-Mobile President Jon Freier today shared real-world photos of Apple's boxes for the iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 models, which launch on Friday.


Apple has typically included iPhone box renders in its product environmental reports, but it did not do so for the latest models. However, Apple's iPhone Upgrade Program page does offer some images of the boxes, which we have shared below.


Are you the type of person who collects Apple boxes, or do you get rid of them right away?
This article, "iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro Boxes Revealed" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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A little more than three months ago, MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris discovered references to an unreleased "Weather via satellite" feature in the code for the first iOS 26 developer beta. However, just one day before iOS 26 is set to be widely released, the feature has yet to be released or even announced by Apple.


The references have not been removed from the code, as of the iOS 26 Release Candidate, so it is possible that Apple will introduce the feature eventually. Perhaps the feature will be added in a follow-up update, such as iOS 26.1 or iOS 26.2.

The feature would let you view the forecast and other weather information in the Weather app, in supported areas without Wi-Fi and cellular range. Apple's other satellite features include Emergency SOS via satellite, Messages via satellite, Find My via satellite, and Roadside Assistance via satellite, with availability varying by country.

Apple has yet to charge a fee for any of its satellite features. Last week, the company announced it is providing existing iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 users with an additional year of free access to the entire suite of satellite features on those devices.
This article, "Apple's Weather via Satellite Feature in iOS 26 Beta Code is Still Missing" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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iOS 26 will be widely released tomorrow, but the new feature that lets you add a digital version of your U.S. passport to Apple's Wallet app is still not available.


The "Digital ID" feature is not functional in the iOS 26 Release Candidate, which is typically the final beta version, despite being listed on the iOS 26 features page in the present tense. Hopefully, it is either enabled with a server-side update when iOS 26 is released tomorrow, or Apple provides an update on when it will be available.

Apple did not immediately respond to our request for comment.

After creating a Digital ID in the Wallet app, you will be able to present it in person at TSA checkpoints in select U.S. airports for identity verification purposes during domestic travel. However, Apple says it is not a replacement for a physical passport, and it cannot be used for international travel and border crossing purposes.

Apple says the Digital ID feature is secure, private, and compliant with REAL ID.

The passport-based Digital ID can also be used for age and identity verification in apps, online, and in stores, according to Apple.

Apple said the feature would also be available on the Apple Watch, starting with watchOS 26.
This article, "iOS 26's New U.S. Passport Feature is Still Not Available" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Last week, we listed eight new AirPods Pro 3 features, including a U2 chip in the charging case. The addition of the U2 chip has been receiving a lot of attention since then, so we wanted to single out its inclusion and discuss it in more detail.


Until now, Apple only referred to the U2 chip as a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, but it is no longer shying away from using a name that might remind Apple fans of the free U2 album that was infamously added to everyone's iTunes account in 2014.

Apple's second-generation Ultra Wideband chip debuted a few years ago, in all iPhone 15 models and the Apple Watch Ultra 2. The chip enables a location-tracking range of up to 200 feet/60 meters, which is up to 3× longer range compared to Apple's first-generation U1 chip in the AirPods Pro 2 charging case, AirTag, and more.

Accordingly, the main benefit of the U2 chip in the AirPods Pro 3 case is up to 3× longer range compared to the U1 chip in the AirPods Pro 2 case, so you can locate the case with the Find My app's Precision Finding feature at longer distances, in the unfortunate event that you lose or misplace your AirPods Pro 3 somewhere around you.


The long-rumored AirTag 2 is also expected to be equipped with the U2 chip.

AirPods Pro 3 are available to pre-order now, and they launch on Friday.
This article, "AirPods Pro 3 Case Features U2 Chip With Improved 'Find My' Range" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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It's iPhone pre-order week, and you can already find offers and discounts on the latest iPhone 17 and iPhone Air models at many carriers in the United States. Additionally, we're tracking great deals on HomePod mini, Beats headphones, and charging accessories to pair with your new iPhone.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Apple's New Products

• What's the deal? Get first-ever offers on AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and more


• Where can I get it? Best Buy, AT&T, and more


• Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Apple this week announced a huge collection of new products, and we're already tracking a few notable offers you can get when pre-ordering select devices. Highlights include $20 in Best Buy credit for members when pre-ordering the AirPods Pro 3, big trade-in values when purchasing the new Apple Watch Series 11, and special trade-in offers on iPhone 17/Air models at select carriers.

• AirPods Pro 3 - $249.00 [Best Buy/Amazon]


• Apple Watch Series 11 - $399.00 [Best Buy/Amazon]


• Apple Watch SE 3 - $249.00 [Best Buy/Amazon]


• Apple Watch Ultra 3 - $799.00 [Best Buy/Amazon]

Amazon Sale

• What's the deal? Save on popular brands like Jackery and Anker


• Where can I get it? Amazon


• Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Amazon this week has a few notable sales from popular brands like Satechi, Jackery, Anker, and Ecovacs. These include discounts on everything from MagSafe-compatible car chargers to portable power stations, Find My compatible wallets, and robot vacuums. You can find every deal in our original post.

• 10,000 mAh Magnetic Power Bank - $34.99, down from $49.99


• Nano Magnetic Car Charger - $39.99, down from $59.99


• MagGo 3-in-1 Foldable Charging Station - $69.99, down from $89.99


• 10,000 mAh MagGo Qi2 Power Bank - $71.99, down from $89.99


• 140W 4-Port USB-C Charger - $79.99 with coupon, down from $99.99


• Power Station with Lantern - $109.99, down from $149.99

HomePod Mini

• What's the deal? Take $15 off HomePod mini


• Where can I get it? Verizon


• Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Verizon today has Apple's HomePod mini for $84.99 in three colors, down from $99.99. As with all Verizon discounts, you don't need to be a Verizon Wireless customer to get this sale, and the retailer is offering free two day shipping.

Beats

• What's the deal? Take up to 43% off Beats


• Where can I get it? Amazon


• Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Amazon this week is discounting a collection of Beats headphones and speakers, including a solid second-best price on the Powerbeats Pro 2. You can get this new 2025 model for $199.95 in four colors, down from $249.99.

If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.

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This article, "Best Apple Deals of the Week: Shop Big Discounts on Popular Charging Accessories to Pair With Your New iPhone 17" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Following three months of beta testing, iOS 26 will be released this Monday, September 15. The update is compatible with the iPhone 11 series and newer, and it will be available to install via the Settings app, under General → Software Update.


Below, we have highlighted eight new features included in iOS 26. Even more new features and changes are outlined in Apple's release notes for the update.

Some of the features are only available on newer iPhone models.

Liquid Glass

iOS 26 introduces an all-new Liquid Glass design with translucent menus, buttons, and icons.

Apple describes Liquid Glass as "a new translucent material that reflects and refracts its surroundings, bringing greater focus to content, and delivering a new level of vitality across controls, navigation, app icons, widgets, and more."

Lock Screen Enhancements

On iOS 26, the Lock Screen's clock automatically adapts to fill the empty space, and you can view full-screen animated album art for supported Apple Music songs.

New iMessage Features

Here are some of the key new features and changes in the Messages app on iOS 26:

• Backgrounds: You can now add a background to any conversation, and all participants will see it. You can choose from Apple's selection of backgrounds, or you can set any of your own photos as a background. You can turn off conversation backgrounds in the Settings app if desired.


• Polls: You can now create polls in group chats, allowing people to vote on topics or questions, such as which restaurant to go to. Apple Intelligence can detect when a poll might come in handy and suggest one.


• Apple Cash in group chats: You can now send and receive Apple Cash in group chats.


• Typing indicators in group chats: You can now see who is typing in group chats.


• "Add Contact" button in group chats: This button makes it easier to add people to the Contacts app in group chats.


• "Select" option: When you tap and hold on a message bubble, a new "Select" option appears. Tapping on it allows you to select a portion of text in a message, whereas you could previously only copy an entire message.


• Unknown sender screening: When turned on, this setting automatically moves messages from unknown senders to the Unknown Senders folder, and hides notifications for them until you accept them.

Call Screening and Hold Assist

iOS 26 adds a couple of useful features to the Phone app: Call Screening and Hold Assist.

Call Screening is an opt-in setting that asks unknown callers for their name, and the reason why they are calling. And with Hold Assist, your iPhone can automatically wait on hold for you during a call, and notify you when the agent on the other line is ready.

Adaptive Power Mode

iOS 26 introduces an Adaptive Power Mode on the iPhone, alongside the existing Low Power Mode.

Apple says Adaptive Power Mode can make "performance adjustments" when necessary to extend an iPhone's battery life, including slightly lowering the display brightness, allowing some activities to "take longer," and automatically turning on Low Power Mode when the iPhone's remaining battery life reaches the 20% mark.

Adaptive Power Mode is only available on the iPhone 15 Pro models and newer. The setting can be turned on in the Settings app, under Battery → Power Mode.

AutoMix

A new AutoMix feature in the Apple Music app can seamlessly transition from one song to the next, like a DJ would. AutoMix replaces the previous Crossfade feature.

Preview App

iOS 26 extends a version of the Apple's Preview app from the Mac to the iPhone, providing you with a built-in app to edit and mark up PDFs and images.

CarPlay Upgrades

When you are using CarPlay with an iPhone running iOS 26, the new Liquid Glass design extends to the CarPlay interface. Like on the iPhone, the new look includes more shimmery app icons and translucent user interface elements.

Starting with iOS 26, you can respond to messages with standard Tapbacks like a heart, thumbs up, or exclamation marks directly through CarPlay.



You can now view your pinned conversations in the Messages app on CarPlay.


CarPlay has a new compact view for incoming phone calls, so that you can still see other information on the screen, such as turn-by-turn directions.

CarPlay's Dashboard screen can now show Live Activities, letting you keep track of things like a flight's arrival time at a glance.


The regular version of CarPlay now has a widgets screen, for things like calendar appointments and HomeKit accessory controls.


iPhone users will be able to wirelessly stream videos to the CarPlay screen using AirPlay, according to Apple. For safety reasons, video playback will only be available when the vehicle is parked, to prevent distracted driving. The connected iPhone will be able to detect when the vehicle is in motion and end playback.

Automakers need to add support for this feature, so it might be limited to newer vehicles and take some time to roll out.

More

Read our iOS 26 roundup linked below to learn more about the update.
This article, "iOS 26 Available Tomorrow With These 8 New Features" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple's annual September event is now in the rearview mirror, with the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch SE 3, and AirPods Pro 3 set to launch this Friday, September 19.


As always, there is more to come. In his Power On newsletter today, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said Apple plans to release many products in the "coming months."

In late 2025 to early 2026, Gurman expects Apple to release 10 products, including an iPad Pro with an M5 chip "as early as October":

• Apple TV: A faster A17 Pro chip that will support next year's revamped version of Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, and likely Apple's N1 chip with Wi-Fi 7 support. A built-in FaceTime camera has been rumored for a future Apple TV, but it is unclear if that will arrive with the next model specifically.


• HomePod mini: S9 chip or newer with support for next year's revamped version of Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, likely Apple's N1 chip with Wi-Fi 7 support, improved sound quality, a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip for proximity features, and potentially new color options like Red.


• AirTag: Up to 3× longer item tracking range vs. current AirTag, a more tamper-proof speaker, and "very low" battery life alerts.


• iPad Pro: M5 chip and two front cameras, allowing for photos and video calls in both portrait and landscape orientations.


• Vision Pro: A faster M4 chip or M5 chip, a new head strap that improves comfort, and potentially a Space Black color option.


• iPhone 17e: The successor to the iPhone 16e is expected to launch around March with the same A19 chip as in the iPhone 17.


• MacBook Pro: Multiple sources, including Gurman, have indicated that MacBook Pro models with the M5 series of chips might not launch until early 2026, and it is unclear if any other Macs with M5 chips like an iMac or Mac mini would debut this year as a result. Perhaps we will see another MacBook Pro announcement in January.


• MacBook Air: New models with the M5 chip are expected in the first quarter of 2026.


• Studio Display: A new version of the Studio Display with mini-LED backlighting is expected to launch in late 2025 or early 2026. If no new Macs launch this year, then early 2026 is the more likely timeframe.


• Apple Home Hub: Apple's long-rumored smart home hub is expected to be announced around March next year.

Gurman's list did not mention the rumored lower-priced MacBook with an A18 Pro chip, which will launch in late 2025 to early 2026, according to previous reports.

It is not yet known if Apple plans to host another special event this year, or if these products would be announced with press releases on the Apple Newsroom website only. If the M5 chip debuts in 2025, then it is likely that Apple would host an event, as the M1 chip through to the M4 chip were all unveiled during events.


This article, "Apple Reportedly Plans to Launch These 10 Products in 'Coming Months'" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple's all-new, ultra-thin iPhone Air launches on Friday, and there are some smaller details about the device that you might have missed.


Below, we outline five things to know about the iPhone Air:

• As rumored, the iPhone Air only has a single speaker. The earpiece at the top of the device doubles as a speaker, but there is no speaker on the bottom of the device. The holes to the left and right of the USB-C port are for microphones. For stereo audio, use AirPods or a capable external speaker.


• On the iPhone Air, the Dynamic Island is positioned slightly lower on the screen compared to the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models. This was likely necessary due to the device's ultra-thin frame necessitating internal design changes.


• While the iPhone 17 Pro models support USB 3.2 Gen 2, for data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps, the iPhone Air is limited to USB 2 speeds of up to 480 Mbps.


• Apple says the iPhone Air can be charged to 50% in approximately 30 minutes, whereas the iPhone 17 Pro models can be charged to 50% in approximately 20 minutes. A higher-wattage charger and cable is required to achieve these speeds. In addition, MagSafe wireless charging on the iPhone Air is limited to up to 20W, compared to 25W for the iPhone 17 Pro models.


• In the iPhone 17 Pro models, the A19 Pro chip has a 6-core GPU. In the iPhone Air, it has a 5-core GPU, so graphics performance will take a slight hit.

Be sure to watch our iPhone Air hands-on video from earlier this week.
This article, "Here Are 5 Smaller iPhone Air Details You Might Have Missed, Including Only a Single Speaker" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Apple's next-generation iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro Max models will be equipped with a slightly smaller Dynamic Island, but the devices will not feature under-screen Face ID, according to the Weibo account Instant Digital.


There were conflicting rumors about whether the iPhone 17 Pro models would have a smaller Dynamic Island, but its size did not change. Now, the rumor is back on the table for the iPhone 18 series, and there is a decent chance it will be true this time around, as it would be a stepping stone towards the rumored 20th-anniversary all-glass iPhone.

Under-screen Face ID has been rumored for the iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro models, so it feels like one of those features that is always a year or two away. Indeed, if the latest information shared by Instant Digital is accurate, under-screen Face ID will not debut until the iPhone 19 Pro models or later. The cycle repeats.

None of the iPhone 18 models will feature an under-screen front camera, the account added. Instead, the devices will have a smaller Dynamic Island and a visible front camera, according to the information they shared on Weibo today.

Instant Digital has around 1.5 million followers on Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform. The account has accurately leaked information about future Apple products in the past, such as the iPhone 17 Pro models featuring a vapor chamber cooling system, the Yellow finish for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2's Titanium Milanese Loop. However, the account does not have a perfect track record, and some of the other iPhone 17 rumors it shared in recent months did not materialize.

We are still a year away from the iPhone 18 series, so buckle up, as there will be plenty more rumors about the devices to come.
This article, "New iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro Rumors: Smaller Dynamic Island, No Under-Screen Face ID" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air pre-orders began on Friday in the U.S. and many other countries. iPhone 17 Pro Max delivery estimates quickly slipped beyond the Friday, September 19 launch day for those who had yet to place an order, and now the rest of the new models have started to follow suit.


As of shortly after 11:30 a.m. Pacific Time today, select iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air configurations on Apple's online store in the U.S. are facing an additional 1-3 week shipping delay beyond launch day, with delivery estimates pushing into late September to mid-October. However, for some configurations, delivery or in-store pickup at select Apple Store locations on launch day is still an option at the time of writing.

We do not know how much supply Apple has for each new iPhone configuration, but if extended delivery estimates generally align with strong demand, then Cosmic Orange for the Pro models and Cloud White for the iPhone Air are proving to be especially popular color options so far. For the regular iPhone 17, Sage and Black are in demand.

On a related note, there is some good news for customers who placed a pre-order as soon as possible on Friday, as some customers who initially received a September 25 delivery estimate have now seen their orders bumped up to September 19.

Need help with making your pre-order decision? Check out our helpful buyer's guide below:

• Buyer's Guide: iPhone 17, Air, Pro, or Pro Max? 40 Differences Compared

This article, "iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro Now Facing Extended Delivery Estimates" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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In case you missed it, Apple's event this week included another heartwarming video about the Apple Watch's genuine life-saving potential.


The video is titled "Dear Apple," in reference to the emails the company receives from Apple Watch customers who were alerted to health conditions, or were helped by features like Emergency SOS and Crash Detection at critical moments.


"Real people share how Apple Watch has changed and even helped save their lives—a fitness story in New York, a teen's struggle with mental health in the UK and powerful health and safety stories from the U.S., Japan, and Canada," said Apple.

Who is cutting onions?
This article, "'Dear Apple'" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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