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Anker today launched its latest charger for the iPhone, the Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station. It's a 3-in-1 charger that can charge an ‌iPhone‌ at up to 25W, fast charge an ‌iPhone‌, and charge AirPods, too. The Prime Wireless Charging Station features Qi2.2 support, which lets a compatible MagSafe ‌iPhone‌ charge at up to 25W. It's the same speed as Apple's ‌MagSafe‌ charger, and it is 10W faster than the standard Qi2 ‌MagSafe‌ chargers. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 models are able to fast charge with the Prime Wireless Charging Station, and can get up to a 50 percent charge within 30 minutes. We were able to test the Prime Wireless Charging Station ahead of launch, and it did indeed charge an iPhone 17 Pro Max from dead to 46 percent in a 30-minute period as promised. Wireless charging speeds can vary based on charge level, temperature, and other factors, but the Prime Wireless Charging Station is able to match Apple's native ‌iPhone 17‌ ‌MagSafe‌ charging options. Charging speeds are steady thanks to an active "AirCool" feature that keeps the ‌iPhone‌ cool while it's charging. It's meant to ensure the ‌iPhone‌ is below 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit while it's on the charger, and the ‌iPhone 17 Pro‌ Max did feel slightly cooler than when charging with a standard ‌MagSafe‌ charger. The included cooling system is close to inaudible with a tiny fan embedded at the back and a vent at the top, so it's suitable for use on a nightstand or desktop. It's not clear if the active cooling makes a major difference in all circumstances since we have also been able to get a similar charge in a similar time period with Apple's ‌MagSafe‌ charger, but it could be a useful feature in hotter conditions. The room we tested in was around 68F, while Anker's testing conditions were at 77F. Anker's site suggests the active cooling allows an ‌iPhone 17‌ to charge 24 percent faster with 30 percent less heat buildup. Anker says the cooling option is also meant to preserve battery health and maintain safety, which is worth considering. Apple Watches that support fast charging are able to charge at maximum speed, and there is enough power for the AirPods or AirPods Pro. There is a tappable LED for controlling the AirCool feature, which you can tap to turn it on or off. The LED turns blue when the AirCool feature is on, or white when it's off. It'll also turn orange if you connect an incompatible adapter that's below 45W, which is helpful. If you're wanting to use the Prime Wireless Charging Station on your nightstand, you'll be glad to hear that the LEDs turn off after a few seconds so there is no annoying light at night. The Prime Wireless Charging Station takes up minimal space, thanks to a folding design. The ‌iPhone‌ charges in an upright position with support for StandBy mode, while the pop-up Apple Watch charger is positioned behind with the AirPods charging platform underneath. The Apple Watch charger folds down into the ‌iPhone‌ charger with a hinge that feels durable, and you can press to pop it out. For charging the AirPods, there is an anti-slip pad that has a little AirPods icon for ideal alignment. The whole thing folds down into a small, palm-sized package that's ideal for travel, measuring in at 3.8 inches by 2.4 inches by 1.2 inches. It's surprisingly light for what it is, similar in weight to the ‌iPhone 17 Pro‌ Max that we tested it with. You can use the ‌iPhone‌ charger with the Charging Station folded up, but you'll need to open it all the way to get to the Apple Watch and AirPods chargers. The ‌iPhone‌ charging portion works as a stand, and you can change the angle from 0 to 60 degrees without the weight of the ‌iPhone‌ collapsing it down. It works well for watching videos or for FaceTime calls. Anker includes a 45W power adapter that's needed to get the maximum charging speeds, along with a standard 5-foot USB-C to USB-C cable, which means the charger is ready to go out of the box. It would have been nice to have an integrated cable of some kind to really boost the travel-friendly design, but it's still a compact design that's easy to tuck into a backpack or suitcase. It also looks slick with a gray aluminum design, black magnetic charging surface for the ‌iPhone‌ and AirPods, and matching stabilizing feet at the bottom. The Apple Watch charger is a Made for Apple Watch design, so it's in white. Anker's charger is designed for the latest ‌iPhone 16‌ and ‌iPhone 17‌ models, but it is backwards compatible with all ‌iPhone‌ models, and it also works with all Apple Watch models and all AirPods models. As with all magnetic chargers, if you want to use the charging station with an ‌iPhone‌ case, you'll need a MagSafe-compatible case. The Prime Wireless Charging Station can be purchased from Amazon or from the Anker website for $120 thanks to a 20 percent launch discount. The price will go up to $150 after the launch promotion.Tag: Anker This article, "Anker's New 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger With 25W Qi2.2 Fast Charging is Now Available for $120" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's impressive Passeig de Gràcia store in the heart of Barcelona, Spain will be temporarily closed for unspecified improvements starting Saturday, February 14 at 8 p.m. local time, according to the store's official page. Apple Passeig de Gràcia The extent of renovations that will be completed remains to be seen, and Apple has not indicated when the store will reopen to the public. Apple Passeig de Gràcia first opened in 2012, and it is one of the company's flagship retail locations. The store is on one of the most popular avenues in Barcelona, inside a historic former bank building with a stunning stone facade. Apple has another store in Barcelona at the Westfield La Maquinista shopping mall. Thanks, Filip Chudzinski!Tag: Apple Store This article, "Apple's Beautiful Store in Barcelona Will Be Temporarily Closed Soon" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today released iOS 16.7.14 to address an iOS 16.7.13 issue that caused some older iPhones in Australia to be unable to connect to emergency services. The update is available for the iPhone 8, ‌iPhone‌ 8 Plus, and ‌iPhone‌ X models, and it will allow these devices to place calls to emergency services in Australia. Apple's release notes say that iOS 16.7.14 fixes a mobile network problem that prevented emergency calls. After Apple released iOS 16.7.13 last week, it became clear that the software interfered with the emergency call situation in Australia, which has been a problem since December. Apple pulled the update, but not until some people had already downloaded it. Last Thursday, Apple released a carrier settings update for Telstra customers in Australia that temporarily fixed the issue by adjusting network-related settings. Australian mobile network operators have been improving support for emergency calling on their networks, which has led to some older iPhones being unable to connect to emergency services in some situations. Apple has been pushing new software to address the issue, including the recent iOS 26.2.1 update. iOS 16.7.4 can be downloaded by opening up the Settings app on the ‌iPhone‌ and going to Settings > General > Software Update. There is also an iPadOS 16.7.14 update available for older iPads.Tag: Australia This article, "Apple Releases iOS 16.7.14 to Address iPhone X and iPhone 8 Emergency Call Issue in Australia" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today released macOS 11.7.11, watchOS 10.6.2, and watchOS 9.6.4 for older Macs and Apple Watches that are not able to run the current watchOS and macOS 26. According to Apple's release notes, the updates extend the certificate that features like device activation, iMessage, and FaceTime use. The certificate update ensures that these functions will continue to work after January 2027. On the Mac, the update can be installed through the Settings app, while on the Apple Watch, the updates can be installed through the Apple Watch app on iPhone. watchOS 9.6.4 and the update that preceded it are the final versions of watchOS that support devices like the ‌iPhone‌ 8, ‌iPhone‌ 8 Plus, and ‌iPhone‌ X, which are limited to iOS 16 and cannot be updated to iOS 17. watchOS 10.6.2 is available for the Apple Watch Series 4, Apple Watch Series 5, and the original Apple Watch SE. This article, "Apple Releases macOS 11, watchOS 10, and watchOS 9 Updates to Keep iMessage and FaceTime Working on Older Devices" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

There has been a lot of discussion lately about skyrocketing memory chip prices, and how that might impact the iPhone and other Apple devices. For those who are not caught up to speed, prices for both DRAM and NAND storage chips have been surging lately due to increased demand from companies building out AI servers. Nvidia has reportedly surpassed Apple as chipmaker TSMC's biggest customer as a result of this boom, despite record-breaking iPhone sales last quarter. The demand for memory chips for AI servers is so high right now that reports have indicated that chipmakers such as TSMC, Samsung, and SK Hynix cannot keep up with supply despite operating at or near full capacity. This supply-demand imbalance is allowing for chipmakers to raise prices for memory chips, with Taiwanese research firm TrendForce today estimating that conventional DRAM and NAND contract prices could rise up to 90–95% and up to 55-60% this quarter, respectively, compared to last quarter. Apple surely still has plenty of leverage as one of the world's largest consumer electronics makers, but it is not entirely immune to the pricing situation. On an earnings call last week, Apple CEO Tim Cook acknowledged that the rising chip prices will have a "bit more of an impact" on the company's gross margin in the current quarter. Nevertheless, Apple forecasted that its revenue will rise 13% to 16% in the quarter on a year-over-year basis, so the company still expects growth. Cook said Apple "will look at a range of options to deal with" the rising prices, if necessary, but he did not mention any specific plans. While the situation is rapidly evolving, it seems unlikely for now that one of those measures would be raising iPhone prices, for a few reasons. First, Apple forecasted that its overall gross margin will remain strong at 48% to 49% in the current quarter, so the company is managing for now. Second, Taiwanese supply chain publication DigiTimes today reported that some suppliers expect Apple to intensify its cost-cutting demands going forward. It is unclear if this refers to DRAM and NAND chip suppliers, or if Apple will try to negotiate more favorable deals with suppliers of other components to offset the impact. Apple has historically been extremely sensitive about passing on price increases to customers, and it is known to have excellent supply chain management. In line with that, supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently said that Apple's current plan for the iPhone 18 Pro models later this year is to "avoid raising prices as much as possible." He predicted that Apple will "at least keep the starting price flat," suggesting that iPhone 18 Pro models will not cost more than iPhone 17 Pro models. Related Reading: Apple May Break a 10-Year Chip StrategyTags: DigiTimes, TrendForce This article, "Will Apple Raise iPhone Prices Due to Skyrocketing Memory Chip Prices?" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Sonos this week kicked off a new home theater equipment sale, with big discounts aimed at anyone preparing for a Super Bowl party. This sale includes deals on Sonos smart speakers, sound bars, subwoofers, and more. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Sonos. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. One highlight of the event is the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar at $899, down from $1,099, which matches the all-time low price we saw over last holiday season. For a cheaper soundbar, you can get the second generation Beam for $369, down from $499. UP TO 20% OFFSonos Super Bowl Sale Additionally, the new Sonos sale has a few bundle deals, which combine a few different home audio devices at one discounted price. This includes the 2 Room Set with Era 100 for $358 ($80 off), Premium Entertainment Set with Arc Ultra for $1,599 ($399 off), and more. Arc Ultra Soundbar - $899, down from $1,099 Beam (Gen 2) Soundbar - $369, down from $499 Era 100 Speaker - $179, down from $219 Era 300 Speaker - $379, down from $479 Sub Mini - $399, down from $499 Sub 4 - $759, down from $899 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. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Sonos Super Bowl Sale Offering Up to 20% Off Select Audio Devices" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's first foldable iPhone will feature relocated volume buttons, an all-black camera plateau, a smaller Dynamic Island, and more, according to design leaks from a known Weibo leaker. The user known as "Instant Digital" today claimed to share several key details about the design of the foldable ‌iPhone‌: The volume buttons will be located on the top edge of the device, aligned to the right, similar to the iPad mini. The Touch ID power button and Camera Control continue to be located on the right edge of the device, just like other recent iPhones. The left side of the device is smooth and does not have any buttons. The front-facing cameras feature a single punch-hole design, resulting in a smaller ‌Dynamic Island‌. The back left of the device features an ‌iPhone‌ Air-style camera plateau, containing two horizontally arranged cameras, the microphone, and the flash. Unlike the iPhone Air, the camera plateau appears to be completely black and not match the color of the device's body. The only "confirmed" color option is said to be white, but a single additional color is expected to be available upon launch, giving customers just two choices. The motherboard is apparently located on the right side of the device. As to not run cables across the screen to the left side for the volume buttons (where they are located on all other ‌iPhone‌ models), Apple is said to have decided to run them directly upwards, which maximizes internal space. The internal structure purportedly features an innovative stacked design, with the space being almost entirely dedicated to the display and battery. It is also said to feature the biggest battery ever used in an ‌iPhone‌. Instant Digital has a good track record for Apple rumors and has provided some strikingly accurate information, such as the imminent launch of 2023's Yellow iPhone 14, the frosted back glass of the ‌iPhone‌ 15 and ‌iPhone‌ 15 Plus, the Apple Watch Series 9 as a minor refresh, spatial video capture on the ‌iPhone‌ 15 Pro, the iPad Air and iPad Pro's move to a landscape front-facing camera, the M4 ‌iPad Pro‌'s nano-texture display option, the iPhone 16 Pro's battery capacities, and continued Apple Watch band compatibility through the Apple Watch Series 10. For the iPhone 17 Pro alone, the leaker reported the device's 256GB base storage configuration and its improved telephoto camera, as well as its improved battery life, thermal design, and display brightness. As a result, their reports are worth taking seriously. Other rumors suggest that Apple's first foldable ‌iPhone‌ will feature a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display, a 5.5-inch cover display, ‌Touch ID‌, two rear cameras, the A20 chip, and the "C2" modem. It is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and ‌iPhone 18‌ Pro Max later this year.Tags: Foldable iPhone, Instant Digital This article, "First Foldable iPhone Design Details Revealed" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Amazon today has brought back a few $99 discounts on the iPad mini 7, starting at $399.99 for the 128GB Wi-Fi tablet, down from $499.00. This is only the second time in 2026 that we've seen prices this low on the iPad mini 7 on Amazon. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. Additionally, you can get the 256GB Wi-Fi iPad mini 7 for $499.99 and the 512GB Wi-Fi iPad mini 7 for $699.99, both $100 discounts and available in multiple colors. These sales are all solid second-best prices on the iPad mini 7. $99 OFF128GB Wi-Fi iPad mini 7 for $399.99 $99 OFF256GB Wi-Fi iPad mini 7 for $499.99 $99 OFF512GB Wi-Fi iPad mini 7 for $699.99 Additionally, you can pair a new iPad mini with the Apple Pencil Pro for $94.99 on sale right now on Amazon, down from $129.00. If you're shopping for a cellular model of the iPad mini, only Best Buy has $100 discounts on these models at this time. $34 OFFApple Pencil Pro for $94.99 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. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Get $99 Off iPad Mini 7 on Amazon, Starting at $399.99" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's original Vision Pro spatial computing headset launched two years ago today. Apple's work on a head-mounted device was the subject of rumors for many years before the Vision Pro's announcement. By the early 2020s, those reports had converged around the idea that Apple was preparing a high-end mixed-reality headset positioned as a new form of general-purpose computer. Apple finally revealed the Apple Vision Pro in June 2023 during its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), marking the company's first major new hardware platform announcement since the Apple Watch. In its initial announcement, Apple described Vision Pro as its first "spatial computer," introducing visionOS, a new operating system designed around three-dimensional app windows controlled by eye tracking, hand gestures, and voice input. The device combined dual micro-OLED displays with a total of roughly 23 million pixels, advanced sensor arrays, and custom silicon, including the M2 chip and a dedicated R1 chip for real-time sensor processing. Apple also announced a starting price of $3,499 in the United States and said the product would launch in early 2024. The Vision Pro launched in the United States on February 2, 2024. Initial reviews broadly praised the visual quality, eye- and hand-tracking accuracy, and technical ambition of the product, while also noting its high price, physical weight, limited battery life, and a comparatively small library of software designed specifically for spatial computing. Following the launch, Apple gradually expanded Vision Pro availability to additional countries and continued to update visionOS with new features in 2024 and 2025. The headset was never expected to be mass-market from day one, according to Apple. Even so, enthusiasm reportedly cooled far faster than anticipated. The latest report on the matter was published earlier this month by the Financial Times, claiming that the Vision Pro is still failing to catch on. Roughly a year and a half after the initial release, Apple introduced an updated Vision Pro model featuring the M5 chip, representing the first hardware revision of the device. The M5 chip enabled 10% more rendered pixels, a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, better responsiveness, and up to an extra hour of battery life. Apple also introduced a counterweighted Dual Knit Band designed to improve comfort. Reports suggest that there are now no Apple Vision headsets in active development, with the company's focus pivoting decisively to smart glasses. Soon after launch, Apple was believed to have shifted focus to a lower-cost "Vision Air," designed to bring spatial computing to a wider audience through a lighter and cheaper headset, while also planning a redesigned Vision Pro 2 for later in the decade. By mid-2024, that plan appeared to change and the company's once-ambitious multi-year roadmap for the Vision Pro is said to have unraveled. A report from The Information said Apple had suspended development of the redesigned Vision Pro, redirecting resources toward the cheaper model, which itself later slipped amid cost and design challenges. Supply-chain reports suggested Apple was winding down production of the first-generation Vision Pro due to weak demand and excess inventory, with the company pivoting to a chip refresh to use up stockpiled components. A year later, Bloomberg reported that Apple also paused work on the lower-cost headset, shifting its focus toward smart glasses, potentially leaving no next-generation headset hardware in active development.Related Roundup: Apple Vision ProBuyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: Apple Vision Pro This article, "Apple Vision Pro Launched Two Years Ago Today" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's rumored plan to enter the smart glasses market by late 2026 is already reshaping the global AR optics supply chain, according to DigiTimes. According to the paywalled report, demand for smart glasses from the likes of Meta is rising steadily, but the industry now expects Apple's equivalent product to act as the primary catalyst for large-scale commercialization. Multiple suppliers across Taiwan's optical sector have apparently increased capital expenditure to expand capacity and shift research priorities toward AR technologies, citing Apple's expected requirements. For example, Kinko Optical has positioned itself as a key supplier by opening a new AR, VR, and MR research center, backed by an investment of about $5.6 million. Kinko is currently the only Taiwanese company developing both nanoimprint optical waveguides and optical engines at the same time, technologies that are essential to modern AR glasses designs. Joint development projects with clients are expected to begin in 2026, aligning with the rumored launch timelines of major new products from brands like Apple. Other Taiwanese suppliers are moving in the same direction. Asia Optical is accelerating development of AR, VR, and metalens products and has partnered with Singapore-based MetaOptics to co-develop metalens technology. JMO Corp. has already entered AR glasses supply chains, while Aiimax Innovation has completed metalens samples now undergoing brand certification. Samsung has already announced plans to launch AR glasses in 2026, while Apple is expected to introduce its first smart glasses by the end of the year. Apple's entry is expected to increase volumes, stabilize supply chains, and lower component costs, prompting Taiwanese suppliers to position themselves more aggressively as the market for smart glasses expands.Tags: Apple Glasses, Apple Smart Glasses, DigiTimes This article, "Apple's Smart Glasses Plans Already Triggering Industry Changes" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

TSMC has been the exclusive supplier of Apple's systems-on-a-chip since 2014, but that 12-year streak could be nearing its end. According to The Wall Street Journal, Apple is exploring whether some of its lower-end processors could be manufactured by a company other than TSMC. "Now that TSMC is doing more business with Nvidia and other AI companies, people with knowledge of the chip supply chain said Apple was exploring whether some lower-end processors could be made by someone other than TSMC," the report said. The report did not mention any candidates, but previous rumors have indicated that Intel could begin supplying some lower-end Apple processors in 2027 or 2028. A few months ago, GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu said that he expected Intel to reach a chip supply deal with Apple for at least some non-pro iPhone models starting in 2028. Based on that timeframe, Intel could supply Apple with at least a portion of A21 or A22 chips for future iPhone models, if the companies agree to a partnership. Apple's return to Intel might also involve some Mac and iPad chips. Last year, Tianfeng Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said he expected Intel to begin shipping Apple's lowest-end M-series chip for select Mac and iPad models as early as mid-2027. For this, Kuo said Apple planned to utilize Intel's 18A process. He did not mention the iPhone. There is no indication that Intel would play a role in designing the iPhone chips, with its involvement expected to be strictly limited to fabrication. That would differ from the era of Intel Macs, which used Intel-designed processors with x86 architecture. Apple began transitioning away from Intel processors in Macs in 2020. Intel would help Apple diversify its supply chain, which could come at a pivotal time, as Nvidia has reportedly surpassed Apple as TSMC's largest customer amid rising competition for NAND memory and RAM chip supply for AI servers. TSMC is not the only chip supplier seeing increased demand amid the AI server boom, as Samsung and SK Hynix have both gained enough leverage to demand Apple pay more for RAM chips, according to The Wall Street Journal's supply chain sources. On an earnings call last week, Apple CEO Tim Cook said that rising memory chip prices had a "minimal impact" on Apple's gross margin last quarter, but he does expect a "bit more of an impact" on the company's gross margin in the current quarter. He said Apple "will look at a range of options to deal with that" as necessary. Apple reported record-breaking revenue of $143.8 billion last quarter, up 16% year-over-year, and it is predicting similar 13% to 16% year-over-year growth and gross margin of 48% to 49% in the current quarter, so the company is still reporting impressive earnings results despite concerns surrounding memory chip prices. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo does not expect price increases for the iPhone 18 lineup.Tags: The Wall Street Journal, TSMC This article, "Apple May Break a 12-Year Chip Strategy" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Last year, Apple launched CarPlay Ultra, the long-awaited next-generation version of its CarPlay software system for vehicles. Nearly nine months later, CarPlay Ultra is still limited to Aston Martin's latest luxury vehicles, but that should change fairly soon. In May 2025, Apple said many other vehicle brands planned to offer CarPlay Ultra, including Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. At the time, it said CarPlay Ultra would begin expanding to more vehicles around the world "in the next 12 months." In his Power On newsletter today, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said he was told that CarPlay Ultra will come to at least one major new Hyundai or Kia vehicle model "in the second half of this year." It is unclear if he is referring to Hyundai's upcoming IONIQ 3, as previously reported, or if it will be a different model. CarPlay Ultra features deeper integration with a vehicle's instrument cluster and systems, built-in apps for radio and climate controls, rear-view camera feed support, and more. The connected iPhone provides app-related data, while the vehicle provides information like the current speed, fuel level, tire pressure, engine temperature, and more. The interface is tailored to each vehicle model and automaker's identity, and drivers can choose from various preset design options. BMW, Ford, and Rivian are among the brands that have publicly downplayed CarPlay Ultra, while General Motors controversially ditched the regular version of CarPlay in its new electric vehicles, so it is likely to pass on CarPlay Ultra too. That means vehicles from brands like Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC are likely out of the running. It is improbable that Tesla would offer CarPlay Ultra either, but it is reportedly working on offering the regular version of CarPlay in a major pivot. Related Roundup: CarPlayTags: CarPlay Ultra, Mark GurmanRelated Forum: HomePod, HomeKit, CarPlay, Home & Auto Technology This article, "Apple's CarPlay Ultra to Expand to These Vehicle Brands Later This Year" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's first foldable could feature the biggest ever iPhone battery and eclipse rival devices, according to a known leaker. In a new post, the Weibo user known as "Fixed Focus Digital" says that the foldable's battery could be over 5,500 mAh in size, which would make it the largest capacity of any current or previous ‌iPhone‌. The iPhone 17 Pro Max has the biggest ‌iPhone‌ battery to date at 5,088 mAh. Competing foldables already on the market feature a noticeably smaller battery than the rumored size. The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold has a battery capacity of 5,015 mAh, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has a 4,400 mAh battery. As a result, any foldable smartphone from Apple with a battery over 5,500 mAh in size would be class-leading. Last year, the leaker known as "yeux1122" said that Apple was testing a battery for the device in the 5,400–5,800 mAh range, citing supply chain sources. A March report from the same Korean account claimed that Apple has placed a heavy focus on improving power efficiency while slimming down key components of its foldable ‌iPhone‌, with battery life said to be a key priority for the company. Separately, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the device will use high-density cells to deliver superior battery life. Apple's first foldable ‌iPhone‌ is rumored to feature a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display, a 5.5-inch cover display, Touch ID, two rear cameras, the A20 chip, and the "C2" modem. It is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and ‌iPhone 18‌ Pro Max later this year. Tags: Battery Life, Fixed Focus Digital, Foldable iPhone This article, "Apple's Foldable iPhone Rumored to Feature Unrivaled Battery Life" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple is "exploring" the idea of a foldable iPhone with a "square, clamshell-style" design, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. A so-called "iPhone Flip" — unlikely to be the real name — would compete with devices such as Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the modern-day Motorola Razr. The clamshell iPhone would be released at some point after Apple's first foldable iPhone, which is expected to launch in September this year. The first foldable iPhone is expected to open up like a book, similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7. "Apple is betting that its first foldable iPhone will be successful enough to generate real demand for the category and that customers will want additional shapes and sizes, much as they have with traditional slab-style iPhones," said Gurman. Nevertheless, he said a clamshell iPhone is "far from guaranteed to reach the market." The book-like foldable iPhone will reportedly be equipped with a 7.7-inch inner display, and a 5.3-inch outer display. The device is also rumored to feature two rear cameras, one front camera, and a Touch ID button instead of Face ID. Tag: Mark Gurman This article, "Apple is Exploring an 'iPhone Flip' as Follow-Up to Foldable iPhone" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Amazon this weekend has all-time low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11, with $100 discounts across numerous models of the smartwatch. This is only the second time so far in 2026 that we've tracked $100 markdowns on the Series 11, and nearly every aluminum model is on sale right now. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. You can get the 42mm GPS Apple Watch Series 11 for $299.00, down from $399.00, and the 46mm GPS model for $329.00, down from $429.00. On Amazon, you'll find four of the 42mm GPS models on sale at this all-time low price, and four of the 46mm GPS models on sale as well. $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (42mm GPS) for $299.00 $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (46mm GPS) for $329.00 If you're shopping for cellular models, you can find record low prices on multiple models this week on Amazon. The 42mm cellular Apple Watch Series 11 has hit $399.00, down from $499.00, and the 46mm cellular model has hit $429.00, down from $529.00. $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (42mm Cell) for $399.00 $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (46mm Cell) for $429.00 Head to our full Deals Roundup to get caught up with all of the latest deals and discounts that we've been tracking over the past week. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Apple Watch Series 11 Hits $299 Low Price on Amazon, Get $100 Off Nearly Every Aluminum Model" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple is planning to launch new MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips alongside macOS 26.3, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. "A new MacBook Pro is planned for the macOS 26.3 release cycle," wrote Gurman, in the intro to his Power On newsletter today. We are still waiting for the full newsletter, so this post will be updated when more details are available. macOS 26.3 remains in beta testing, but the update is coming soon, with a release to the general public expected in February. That means the MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips should launch this month, if Gurman is accurate. In October, AppleInsider's Marko Zivkovic was first to report that the MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips were "expected to ship with macOS 26.3," so this rumor has now been shared by multiple sources. More details to follow… Related Roundups: MacBook Pro, macOS TahoeTag: Mark GurmanBuyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Caution)Related Forums: MacBook Pro, macOS Tahoe This article, "New MacBook Pros Reportedly Launching Alongside macOS 26.3" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple recently updated its online store with a new ordering process for Macs, including the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro. There used to be a handful of standard configurations available for each Mac, but now you must configure a Mac entirely from scratch on a feature-by-feature basis. In other words, ordering a new Mac now works much like ordering an iPad. This change was first spotted by such as Macworld and the French blog Consomac. On the MacBook Pro ordering page, for example, you start by choosing a 14-inch or 16-inch display and a color. Next, you have the option to upgrade to a nano-texture display. Then, you choose from the list of M-series chips that are available for the MacBook Pro size that you selected. Finally, you can customize the amount of RAM and SSD storage, choose a power adapter, and choose a keyboard language. Unfortunately, the MacBook Pro still cannot be configured with an M5 Pro or M5 Max chip, as the wait continues for new models. Hopefully that changes soon!Tag: Apple Store This article, "Apple Changes How You Order a Mac" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Amazon is offering discounts across the M5 iPad Pro lineup this weekend, including both 11-inch and 13-inch models. The highlight this time around is a return of a low price on the 256GB Wi-Fi 11-inch M5 iPad Pro, which is on sale for $899.00, down from $999.00. 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. Many of the deals in this sale match — or beat — the record low prices we tracked during the holiday season. Amazon provides an estimated delivery date around February 5 for free delivery, but Prime members should see earlier delivery dates in many cases. $100 OFF11-inch M5 iPad Pro (256GB Wi-Fi) for $899.00 $149 OFF13-inch M5 iPad Pro (256GB Wi-Fi) for $1,149.99 There are fewer 13-inch M5 iPad Pro models on sale this time around, but the ones that are on sale have reached record low prices. You'll find $149 off three Wi-Fi models, with prices starting at $1,149.99 for the 256GB Wi-Fi 13-inch M5 iPad Pro, down from $1,299.00. 11-Inch M5 iPad Pro 256GB Wi-Fi - $899.00 ($100 off) 512GB Wi-Fi - $1,099.00 ($100 off) 1TB Wi-Fi - $1,499.99 ($99 off) 1TB Nano-Texture Glass Wi-Fi - $1,576.00 ($123 off) 2TB Wi-Fi - $1,851.00 ($148 off) 2TB Nano-Texture Glass Wi-Fi - $1,999.00 ($100 off) 13-Inch M5 iPad Pro 256GB Wi-Fi - $1,149.99 ($149 off) 512GB Wi-Fi - $1,349.99 ($149 off) 1TB Wi-Fi - $1,749.99 ($149 off) 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. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Get Up to $149 Off M5 iPad Pro on Amazon This Weekend" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

RR Auction has announced that an Apple check signed by the company's co-founders Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak fetched a whopping $2.4 million at auction this week. The check was for $500, meaning that it sold for 4,800× its original value. According to RR Auction, the $500 check was issued to printed circuit board designer Howard Cantin, shortly after Jobs and Wozniak opened Apple's first bank account. Cantin was responsible for translating Wozniak's Apple-1 schematic into a manufacturable printed circuit board, leading to Apple's first commercial product. Dated March 16, 1976, the Wells Fargo check is marked "No. 1." It was issued a few weeks before Apple Computer was officially founded on April 1, 1976. “This is the most important financial document in Apple history," said Bobby Livingston, executive vice president at RR Auction. "It captures Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak's first true business transaction, and the final result shows that collectors recognized its significance above any other Apple material ever brought to market."Tag: Steve Jobs This article, "Apple Check Signed by Steve Jobs Sells for 4,800× Its Original Value" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

It was a busy week with Apple's first real launches of 2026, led by the release of the Creator Studio app bundle and the second-generation AirTag. We also got some rumors about Apple's plans for Mac updates in 2026, timing on the more personalized Siri finally arriving, and a significant acquisition by Apple, so read on below for all the details! Top Stories Apple's 'Creator Studio' App Bundle Now Available for $12.99 Per Month Apple this week launched the new Creator Studio bundle that was initially unveiled earlier this month, providing content creators with access to six Apple apps for $12.99 per month or $129 per year. Creator Studio includes Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Pixelmator Pro on Mac and iPad, along with Motion, Compressor, and MainStage on the Mac. Final Cut Pro is Apple's video editing software, Logic Pro is for audio editing and creation, and Pixelmator Pro is an image editing app that Apple purchased in 2024. The Creator Studio bundle unlocks AI features that are not otherwise accessible in these apps, plus it adds new features to free apps like Keynote, Pages, and Numbers, with Freeform coming later. Be sure to check out our initial hands-on overview if you're thinking about subscribing to the bundle. Apple Unveils New AirTag With Longer Range, Louder Speaker, and More Apple this week introduced the second-generation AirTag, with key features including longer range for tracking items and a louder speaker. The new AirTag is equipped with a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, enabling the Precision Finding feature to work up to 50% farther away from an item compared to the previous-generation model, according to Apple. The new AirTag also has an upgraded Bluetooth chip for improved overall range outside of Precision Finding mode. Apple also introduced this year's Black Unity band for Apple Watch, a Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop featuring the red, green, and black colors of the Pan-African flag. iPhone 5s Gets New Software Update 13 Years After Launch Apple released iOS 26.2.1 this week to support the new second-generation AirTag, but the company also released a slew of other iOS updates for older devices that can't run iOS 26. That includes an iOS 12.5.8 update for the iPhone 5s and 6, which is remarkable considering the iPhone 5s will turn 13 years old later this year. The iOS updates released this week for older devices extend a certificate required for device activation, iMessage, and FaceTime, allowing these aging devices to remain functional for those who are still using them. Apple Reportedly Aiming to Upgrade the MacBook Pro Twice This Year Apple plans to release new MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Studio Display models in the first half of this year, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his Power On newsletter this week, Gurman added that redesigned MacBook Pro models with an OLED touch screen "should be hitting toward the end of 2026," meaning that the MacBook Pro line would be upgraded twice this year. It would be a rare but not unprecedented move for Apple to update the MacBook Pro twice in a year, but while previous rumors had indicated the M6 generation could arrive in either late 2026 or early 2027, Gurman now seems to be leaning more heavily toward the update arriving before the end of this year. Meanwhile, the wait for the M5 Pro and M5 Max models continues. Here's When Apple Plans to Unveil a New Siri Powered by Google Gemini A more personalized version of Siri powered by Google Gemini is expected to be introduced next month, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. "The company has been planning an announcement of the new Siri in the second half of February, when it will give demonstrations of the functionality," he wrote, in the latest edition of his weekly Power On newsletter. The interim improvements to Siri will come ahead of a much bigger upgrade to include chatbot functionality and significantly more capabilities in iOS 27, which will be introduced at WWDC in June. Apple Just Made Its Second-Biggest Acquisition Ever After Beats Apple has been criticized by some observers for slow-rolling its entry into AI technology, with some suggesting the company needs to make a major acquisition to try to catch up to rivals already establishing themselves in the space. Apple made a bit of a splash this week with its acquisition of Q.ai, which uses AI to analyze facial expressions to understand "silent speech." It's not nearly a deal on the scale of acquiring one of the major chatbot players, but at a valuation of nearly $2 billion, according to reports, it appears to stand as Apple's second-biggest acquisition ever behind Beats in 2014. MacRumors Newsletter Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view. So if you want to have top stories like the above recap delivered to your email inbox each week, subscribe to our newsletter!Tag: Top Stories This article, "Top Stories: Apple Creator Studio, AirTag 2, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Introduction In today’s fast-paced tech environment, managing DevOps processes effectively is crucial to an organization’s success. DevOps managers play a vital role in ensuring smooth collaboration between development and operations teams, driving automation, and improving software delivery pipelines. However, with the rise of cloud computing, agile practices, and continuous integration, there is a growing demand for professionals who can lead this transformation and drive organizational efficiency. The Certified DevOps Manager (CDM) certification equips professionals with the knowledge and skills required to navigate this complex landscape. This certification ensures that DevOps managers can implement change management, performance tracking, and continuous improvement processes in their teams. Why this matters: Organizations are increasingly recognizing the need for DevOps managers to bridge the gap between development and operations, improving productivity and efficiency in software delivery. What Is a DevOps Manager? A DevOps Manager is a professional who leads the implementation of DevOps practices in an organization. They focus on optimizing the software development lifecycle, driving automation, and fostering collaboration between developers and IT operations. In practical terms, DevOps managers oversee the integration of development and operations teams to improve the flow of software from development to production. DevOps Managers are responsible for managing cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and implementing strategies that enhance productivity, quality, and efficiency. Their role is essential in driving the transformation towards a more agile and collaborative environment in organizations adopting DevOps practices. Why this matters: As the demand for continuous delivery increases, having a qualified DevOps Manager is crucial for driving efficiency and ensuring smooth operations across the software lifecycle. Why DevOps Manager Is Important in Modern DevOps & Software Delivery DevOps is now a core part of modern software delivery processes. It aligns development and operations teams, helping them collaborate and automate tasks that traditionally slowed down the workflow. The role of a DevOps Manager is crucial to this shift, as they not only implement tools and practices but also foster the culture of collaboration required for successful DevOps practices. DevOps Managers help overcome challenges such as long software delivery times, operational inefficiencies, and poor quality control. They ensure that DevOps tools are effectively implemented, and agile methodologies are adopted, which enhances productivity and software delivery speed. Why this matters: The role of DevOps Managers is vital in today’s tech industry, where agility and speed are critical to staying competitive. Core Concepts & Key Components Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) Purpose: CI/CD ensures that code changes are automatically integrated into a shared repository and then automatically deployed, improving the speed and reliability of software delivery. How it works: Developers push code changes, which are then automatically tested, integrated, and deployed using CI/CD tools like Jenkins or GitLab. Where it is used: Commonly used in software development to automate testing and deployment pipelines. Automation Purpose: Automation in DevOps aims to reduce manual intervention in software testing, integration, and deployment processes. How it works: Automation tools such as Ansible, Puppet, and Chef are used to configure and manage infrastructure, ensuring consistency across environments. Where it is used: Automation is widely adopted in cloud environments and large-scale deployments. Collaboration and Communication Purpose: DevOps emphasizes a culture of collaboration between development, operations, and other teams. How it works: Tools like Slack, Jira, and Microsoft Teams facilitate communication between cross-functional teams. Where it is used: DevOps culture thrives in agile and cloud-based environments where speed and flexibility are essential. Continuous Monitoring and Feedback Purpose: Continuous monitoring ensures that systems are performing well and issues are addressed before they impact users. How it works: Tools such as Nagios, Prometheus, and New Relic monitor application performance and infrastructure health. Where it is used: Monitoring is used in all stages of the DevOps lifecycle, particularly during production. Why this matters: The key components of DevOps, such as CI/CD and automation, ensure faster, more reliable software delivery, making the role of a DevOps Manager essential for implementing these practices. How DevOps Manager Works (Step-by-Step Workflow) Assessment of Current Processes: The DevOps Manager begins by assessing the current workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and determining areas for improvement. Tool Selection and Integration: After identifying gaps, the DevOps Manager selects and integrates the right DevOps tools for CI/CD, version control, and testing. Team Collaboration: They facilitate collaboration between developers, operations teams, and other stakeholders, ensuring alignment with project goals. Implementation of Automation: DevOps Managers drive automation efforts across testing, deployment, and monitoring to ensure consistency and reliability. Continuous Improvement: After initial implementation, the DevOps Manager focuses on monitoring and refining processes to improve performance continually. Why this matters: The step-by-step workflow of a DevOps Manager ensures that the entire DevOps lifecycle is optimized, which directly contributes to faster and more efficient software delivery. Real-World Use Cases & Scenarios DevOps Managers play a key role in various industries, especially in tech companies, where their influence can be seen in smoother product releases and enhanced team collaboration. For example, in a large software company, the DevOps Manager oversees the integration of development and operations teams, leading to a 30% reduction in deployment times. In cloud-native organizations, DevOps Managers are responsible for the full deployment lifecycle, ensuring high availability, scalability, and security. These professionals work closely with teams across different functions to ensure that all aspects of the software delivery process are automated and optimized. Why this matters: Real-world use cases demonstrate how DevOps Managers contribute to improving operational efficiency and delivering high-quality software at a faster pace. Benefits of Using a DevOps Manager Increased Productivity: Streamlined workflows, faster release cycles, and automation increase the overall productivity of teams. Improved Reliability: Continuous monitoring and automated testing reduce downtime and improve system stability. Scalability: DevOps Managers ensure that infrastructure and applications can scale efficiently, accommodating growth. Enhanced Collaboration: With a focus on communication, DevOps Managers foster better collaboration between development, operations, and other teams. Why this matters: The benefits of having a skilled DevOps Manager extend beyond technical improvements—they help boost productivity, reliability, and collaboration. Challenges, Risks & Common Mistakes One common mistake in DevOps management is failing to establish a clear DevOps culture, which leads to friction between teams. Another risk is relying too heavily on automation without considering the human element, such as the collaboration needed between teams. Additionally, some organizations may overlook the need for continuous training and skill development, which can hinder long-term success. Mitigation strategies include fostering strong communication, setting clear expectations, and ensuring that teams are equipped with the necessary tools and training to succeed. Why this matters: Addressing these challenges ensures a smoother transition to DevOps practices and better long-term outcomes for organizations. Comparison Table FeatureTraditional DevelopmentDevOps DevelopmentSpeed of DeliverySlowFastCollaborationSiloedCross-functionalAutomationLowHighCI/CD IntegrationManualAutomatedTestingManualContinuous IntegrationRisk ManagementReactiveProactiveInfrastructure ManagementManualAutomatedMonitoringLimitedContinuousChange ManagementComplexSimplifiedScalabilityLimitedSeamless Why this matters: This table clearly compares the differences between traditional software development and modern DevOps practices, highlighting the value of having a DevOps Manager in place. Best Practices & Expert Recommendations Focus on Automation: Automate as much as possible, including testing, deployments, and infrastructure management. Foster a Collaborative Culture: Encourage cross-functional team collaboration to improve problem-solving and innovation. Continuous Monitoring and Feedback: Implement continuous monitoring to identify issues early and refine processes. Invest in Training: Ensure that teams are continuously learning and improving their DevOps skills. Why this matters: Following best practices ensures that DevOps Managers can maximize the benefits of DevOps practices and drive long-term success. Who Should Learn or Use a DevOps Manager? This certification is ideal for professionals in roles such as DevOps Engineers, IT Operations Managers, and Cloud Architects. Experience in software development, infrastructure management, or project management is beneficial but not mandatory. Whether you are looking to lead a DevOps team or integrate DevOps practices into your organization, this certification provides the skills and knowledge required to succeed. Why this matters: As organizations continue to adopt DevOps, professionals in relevant roles need the skills to manage and lead these transformations. FAQs – People Also Ask What is a DevOps Manager? A DevOps Manager leads the implementation of DevOps practices, optimizing the development and operations processes. Why this matters: Their leadership ensures faster, more reliable software delivery. Why is DevOps Manager used? They help bridge the gap between development and operations, driving automation and continuous improvement. Why this matters: DevOps Managers enhance productivity and collaboration within teams. Is DevOps Manager suitable for beginners? This role is better suited for those with experience in DevOps, software development, or IT operations. Why this matters: DevOps Managers need a solid understanding of both development and operations processes. How does DevOps Manager compare with alternatives? Unlike traditional IT managers, DevOps Managers focus on automation, collaboration, and continuous delivery. Why this matters: This ensures faster, more efficient software development and delivery. Is DevOps Manager relevant for DevOps roles? Yes, DevOps Managers play a critical role in implementing and managing DevOps practices. Why this matters: Their expertise is essential for leading DevOps teams and ensuring successful transformation. Branding & Authority DevOpsSchool is a globally recognized platform, offering industry-leading certification programs in DevOps, SRE, and related fields. With over 20 years of experience, DevOpsSchool has helped thousands of professionals enhance their skills and advance their careers. Rajesh Kumar, a co-founder of DevOpsSchool, is a renowned expert in DevOps, SRE, and Cloud technologies. With over two decades of hands-on experience, Rajesh brings unparalleled insights into the practical applications of DevOps and its transformative impact on modern organizations. Why this matters: Trust in DevOpsSchool and Rajesh Kumar to provide expert training and certification programs that ensure career growth and industry success. Call to Action & Contact Information For more information or to enroll in the Certified DevOps Manager certification program, contact us: Email: [email protected] Phone & WhatsApp (India): +91 84094 92687 Phone & WhatsApp (USA): +1 (469) 756-6329 Certified DevOps Manager Course Link View the full article

In a new report about Apple losing at least four more AI researchers in recent weeks, in addition to a high-ranking Siri executive, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reiterated that the company is preparing to release two new versions of Siri. First, Apple announced that it plans to release a more personalized version of Siri powered by Google Gemini this year. It is expected to be part of iOS 26.4, which should enter beta testing in February and be released to the general public in March or April. Back in June 2024, Apple said the revamped Siri will have understanding of personal context, on-screen awareness, deeper in-app controls, and more. Second, Siri will reportedly get even better on iOS 27, as Apple is said to be planning to turn the assistant into a full-out chatbot, allowing users to have sustained, back-and-forth conversations with the assistant. This will essentially turn Siri into ChatGPT or Gemini, except it will be built right into the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, with no app required. Gurman said the Siri chatbot will be "competitive with Gemini 3," and "significantly more capable" than the more personalized Siri coming with iOS 26.4. The high-ranking Siri executive who left Apple was Stuart Bowers, according to the report, which described him as "one of the company's most senior executives working on Siri." He joined Google's artificial intelligence research laboratory DeepMind. The four researchers who left are Yinfei Yang, Haoxuan You, Bailin Wang, and Zirui Wang. Tags: Apple Intelligence, Mark Gurman, Siri This article, "Apple Still Preparing Two New Versions of Siri as Some Employees Leave" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

In a recent interview with the tech podcast TBPN, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman revealed that Apple was initially "going to rebuild Siri around Claude," the large language model and chatbot developed by the company Anthropic. In the end, though, Apple announced that it had decided to use Google's Gemini platform instead. According to Gurman, Apple went with Google due at least in part to money. "Anthropic was holding them over a barrel," said Gurman, in a podcast clip shared by TBPN. "They wanted a ton of money from them, several billion dollars a year, and at a price that doubled on an annual basis for the next three years." Nevertheless, Gurman said Apple currently "runs on Anthropic" internally. "Anthropic is powering a lot of the stuff Apple's doing internally in terms of product development and a lot of their internal tools," he explained. "They have custom versions of Claude running on their own servers internally, too." Apple was "not going to use Google" for the revamped Siri until "a few months ago," he said. Apple announced that it plans to release a more personalized version of Siri powered by Google Gemini this year. It is expected to be part of iOS 26.4, which should enter beta testing in February and be released to the general public in March or April. The new-and-improved Siri likely requires an iPhone 15 Pro or newer. Back in June 2024, Apple said the revamped Siri will have understanding of personal context, on-screen awareness, deeper in-app controls, and more. At the time, Apple showed an iPhone user asking Siri about their mother's flight and lunch reservation plans based on info retrieved from the Mail and Messages apps. Bloomberg's @markgurman says that even though Apple partnered with Google Gemini for Siri, they actually run their business on Anthropic. "Apple runs on Anthropic at this point. Anthropic is powering a lot of the stuff Apple's doing internally in terms of product development and… pic.twitter.com/NpW0Pyj03J — TBPN (@tbpn) January 29, 2026 Tags: Anthropic, Mark Gurman, Siri This article, "New Siri: Apple Almost Chose a Different Partner Before Google Gemini" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Following a January that saw Apple release a new AirTag and the Creator Studio bundle of creative apps, it is now time to shift our attention to February. Below, we have outlined some key items to expect from Apple in February. Of course, these are only the things that are known, so stay tuned for even more. iOS 26.3 iOS 26.3 remains in beta testing, but the update should be released soon. We expect the iOS 26.3 Release Candidate to be seeded as early as next week, and the update should be released to the general public in the first half of February. iOS 26.3 is a relatively minor update, with only a handful of notable new features, including a new iOS-to-Android transfer tool, notification forwarding and AirPods-like proximity pairing for third-party accessories like smartwatches, and a carrier-related limit precise location setting. Apple also appears to be laying the groundwork for carriers to begin supporting end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging, which it has promised to implement. Personalized Siri (Beta) Apple plans to announce a more personalized version of Siri powered by Google Gemini in the second half of February, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The more personalized Siri will be part of iOS 26.4, which will be available in beta in February and released to the general public in March or early April, according to Gurman. Based on that timeframe, the new-and-improved Siri should be available to all customers with an iPhone 15 Pro or newer in just a few more months. As previewed by Apple, the assistant "should be able to tap into personal data and on-screen content to fulfill tasks," according to Gurman. Apple first announced the more personalized version of Siri all the way back at WWDC 2024, but it was eventually delayed. At the time, Apple showed an iPhone user asking Siri about their mother's flight and lunch reservation plans based on info retrieved from the Mail and Messages apps, as one example of a new capability. The revamped Siri reportedly experienced issues inside Apple, leading the company to turn to Google Gemini. As part of the partnership, the revamped Siri will still run on a new Apple Intelligence model that has Gemini's technology baked in. Other Known DatesThursday, February 5: Another four games are coming to Apple Arcade, including Retrocade, an app that lets you play classic arcade games like Asteroids, PAC-MAN, Breakout, Galaga, and Space Invaders. One of the other additions will be an arcade version of the popular PC game Sid Meier's Civilization VII. Friday, February 6: Apple will accept submissions for the 2026 Swift Student Challenge from Friday, February 6 through Saturday, February 28. Some of the winners will be invited to spend three days at Apple Park during WWDC 2026 in June. Sunday, February 8: Apple Music is the official sponsor of the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, set to be held on Sunday, February 8. This year's performer is Puerto Rican rapper and singer Bad Bunny. Tuesday, February 10: A few years ago, Apple's Home app was rearchitected, and the company will be ending support for the original architecture on this day. If you do not update, Apple warns you might experience issues. Tuesday, February 24: Apple will be holding its annual shareholders meeting at 8 a.m. Pacific Time, and it will once again be held virtually. Apple shareholders of record as of January 2, 2026 can vote to re-elect the company's board of directors, ask questions, and more. Apple rarely answers any questions about future plans, so the meetings are often unremarkable from a news perspective. Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Tag: SiriRelated Forum: iOS 26 This article, "What to Expect From Apple in February, Including Revamped Siri in Beta" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

A newly surfaced resale operation is seemingly offering Apple Store–exclusive display accessories to the public for the first time, potentially giving consumers access to Apple-designed hardware that the company has historically kept confined to its retail environments. Apple designs a range of premium MagSafe charging stands, display trays, and hardware systems exclusively for displays in its global retail stores. They have never been made available through Apple's online store or physical retail locations. "AppleUnsold" surfaced this week as an Australia-based seller that has begun offering ‌Apple Store‌ display hardware for sale through both an independent website and an eBay storefront. From company's website: AppleUnsold exists because too many people were asking the same question: "Where can I buy that?" The store display stands, retail accessories, Genius Bar tools and employee gear, and until now, the answer was always the same: you can't. Despite large demand, Apple simply won't sell them. That's where we come in. Display models, store exclusives and Apple-only equipment are exactly what we specialise in. We give you access to products you simply can't find anywhere else. Every item is genuine Apple, carefully inspected and graded before listing. Items currently offered or previously listed for sale include iPhone ‌MagSafe‌ demo chargers, Apple Watch charging docks, AirPods Max display stands, Apple Pencil trays, iPad ring stands, and display trays designed for Apple Vision Pro. The catalog also extends beyond presentation hardware to include diagnostic cables and service-related accessories, such as Apple Watch restore docks and HomePod debugging cables, which are typically reserved for ‌Apple Store‌ back-of-house use or authorized service environments. AppleUnsold says on its website that all items are genuine Apple products and that inventory consists of both new and used hardware. The company also notes that supply is limited and dependent on availability, with many items frequently selling out. The seller originally operated exclusively through eBay and continues to maintain a presence there alongside its standalone storefront. The AppleUnsold eBay account shows a 100% positive feedback rating based on a limited number of completed transactions. Customer feedback on specific listings includes confirmations that purchased items appear to be authentic Apple hardware. Apple's retail fixtures and internal tools are not authorized for consumer resale, and the company treats such hardware as proprietary retail property. Historically, Apple has taken action to restrict unauthorized sales of internal-use products, and it is not clear where AppleUnsold is sourcing stock from or how its business model works. Tag: Retail This article, "Retail Accessories Apple Won't Sell You Now Available via New Site" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article