If you've been using Meta AI in Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, or Messenger, you might want to stop. Starting later this year, Meta plans to use your generative AI conversations to personalize content and tailor ad recommendations.
Text exchanges and voice conversations with Meta AI will be used to personalize posts, reels, ads, and more. Meta says that incorporating AI conversations will help the company improve its recommendations so that people are "more likely to see content they're actually interested in."
Meta likens using AI conversations to tailoring recommendations based on the content that people interact with on Facebook and Instagram. If you converse with AI about hiking, for example, Meta will show ads for hiking boots, as it would if you liked a hiking-related page.
There is no way to opt out of Meta's AI-based ad targeting, but Meta claims that users can adjust the content and ads they're seeing with Ad Preferences and feed controls. With Ad Preferences, you can limit ads from specific topics or block advertisers one by one, but you can't choose not to let Meta access your AI conversations. Interactions with Meta AI are used across Meta products that have been added to the same Accounts Center.
With no opt-out feature, the only way to prevent Meta from using your AI conversations for content and ad targeting purposes is not to use the AI in the first place.
Meta says that sensitive topics like sexual orientation, political views, health, racial or ethnic origin, philosophical beliefs, or trade union membership are not used for ad targeting purposes. Conversations that take place before December 16 won't be used.
Meta plans to start using AI for personalization on December 16, 2025, and customers will receive in-product notifications and emails before it happens. Data will be used for personalization in most countries around the world, though not in the EU, UK, and South Korea for the time being.
Logitech this week announced the MX Master 4, the latest version of its popular mouse for Macs and PCs. The new model offers haptic feedback for certain actions, includes a new Actions Ring for quick access to on-screen shortcuts next to the cursor, has a harder plastic finish that is less prone to stains, and more. In the U.S., the MX Master 4 for Mac is priced at $119.99, with shipments beginning this month.
Given the MX Master has now received an update, you may be wondering when Apple plans to release a new Magic Mouse. Below, we outline rumors about the so-called Magic Mouse 3, which is expected to be released in 2026 at the earliest.
The two key rumors for the Magic Mouse 3 so far include a relocated charging port, along with a more ergonomic design.
Rumored Features
Relocated Charging Port
While the Magic Mouse switched from Lightning to USB-C last year, the charging port is still located on the bottom of the mouse, which prevents it from being used while charging. This is only a minor inconvenience, as charging the mouse is a quick and infrequent process, but it sounds like Apple will finally relocate the port.
In December 2024, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said Apple was working on a redesigned Magic Mouse with a relocated charging port.
More Ergonomic Design
In addition to having a relocated charging port, Gurman said the next Magic Mouse would be more ergonomic and comfortable to use.
While no specific design details about the next Magic Mouse were shared, perhaps Apple will take some inspiration from popular alternatives for the Mac, like the MX Master series. That mouse features an ergonomic design with a thumb rest, a front-facing USB-C charging port, precision tracking, two scroll wheels, and more.
The overall look of the Magic Mouse has not changed much since 2009, so a redesign has been a long time coming. Notable changes over the years include the mouse switching from AA batteries to a built-in rechargeable battery in 2015, new color-matching options with the iMac in 2021, and the switch from Lightning to USB-C last year. Overall, the Magic Mouse has not received much attention from Apple over the past decade.
Magic Mouse vs. MX Master 4
A key selling point of the Magic Mouse is multi-touch gesture support, for actions such as swiping between web pages, scrolling through documents, and zooming. However, unlike the MX Master 4, the existing Magic Mouse lacks haptic feedback.
Overall, the MX Master 4 is a far more sophisticated mouse than the Magic Mouse for power users, as it offers multiple programmable buttons, an option for ultra-fast scrolling, and more. With haptic feedback, the MX Master 4 gets even better.
Fortunately, the rumors about the Magic Mouse 3 featuring a relocated USB-C charging port and a more ergonomic design should help it to better compete with the MX Master 3 and MX Master 4, but Logitech's mouse will likely remain more advanced.
Release Timing and Pricing
The new Magic Mouse will be released in 2026 at the earliest, according to Gurman's report last year. However, he has not commented on the mouse in many months.
The current Magic Mouse is priced at $79 in the U.S., on a standalone basis, and it is included at no additional cost with the purchase of an iMac or a Mac Pro.
There is no word yet on how much the Magic Mouse 3 will cost.
Apple released iOS 26 in mid-September, bringing a range of new features and changes to iPhones across the globe. But not all of the included improvements have been showcased with Apple's typical fanfare, and many are likely to have been overlooked.
Below, we've highlighted 26 lesser known additions and enhancements that could potentially change how you use your iPhone on a daily basis. Got any favorite iOS 26 tips we haven't covered here? Let us know in the comments section at the end of this article.
1. New Background Sounds
Apple has added eight new Background Sounds in iOS 26, including Babble, Steam, Airplane, Boat, Bus, Train, Rain On Roof, and Quiet Night. Add the Background Sounds control to Control Center to try them out, or go to Settings ➝ Accessibility ➝ Audio & Visual ➝ Background Sounds.
2. Tint Icons to Match iPhone Color
Apple's Home screen customization options can match the color of your app icons with the physical color of your iPhone. Long press a space on your Home screen and tap Edit ➝ Customize. Then Choose Tinted and tap the far-left iPhone button under the two horizontal color sliders.
3. Reduce Loud Sounds
A new "Reduce Loud Sounds" option in Settings ➝ Sounds & Haptics compresses your iPhone speaker's volume range, making loud sounds softer while preserving quieter details. If you frequently switch between apps with wildly different volume levels or watch videos with inconsistent audio mixing, it could be worth enabling the toggle to improve your listening experience.
4. Selectively Copy Messages Text
When you tap and hold on any message bubble, a new "Select" option now appears alongside the familiar copy and reaction choices, finally solving one of Messages' most persistent frustrations. It allows you to highlight specific portions of text within a message rather than copying the entire message.
5. Send Photos Faster
Apple quietly added a neat new option that lets you send smaller-sized previews of images over Messages so that recipients get them right away, before the full-resolution images arrive. Find the option in Settings ➝ Apps ➝ Messages ➝ Send Low-Quality Photo Previews. If you're traveling with limited cellular data or using a metered data connection, the recipient only gets a compressed preview version – ensuring the original high resolution image doesn't hoover up your data.
6. Ask ChatGPT About Onscreen Content
Start by taking a screenshot: Quickly press and release the iPhone's Side button and the Volume Up button at the same time. Then tap Ask to open a text box where you can pose a question to ChatGPT about the screenshot's contents. For example, you can ask for an explanation of a term or details about an object.
7. Get a Callback Reminder for a Missed Call
Keeping track of missed calls can be challenging if you're juggling several tasks during the day. In iOS 26, you can set callback reminders directly from the Phone app, making it less likely that you'll forget to return important calls. Tap the Calls tab, scroll down to Recents, then swipe left across a missed call and tap the blue clock icon. Choose one of the following: Remind Me in 1 hour, Remind Me Tonight, Remind Me Tomorrow, Remind Me Later...
8. Screen Messages From Unknown Senders
Apple in iOS 26 provides more control over unwanted texts, separating spam messages from unknown senders into distinct categories. In the Messages app, tap the filter menu icon in the top-right corner and Select Manage Filtering, then toggle on Screen Unknown Senders in Messages' settings. Once filtering is active, messages from contacts not saved in your address book automatically go to the Unknown Senders section. You'll see a number in brackets next to Unknown Senders in the filter menu indicating new messages, but you won't receive disruptive alerts.
9. Set a Custom Ringtone
Setting custom ringtones on your iPhone is dramatically easier in iOS 26. Open the Files app, long press an MP3 or M4A audio file that's less than 30 seconds long, tap Share, then choose Use as Ringtone. The change will be made immediately.
10. See Your Gaming Achievements
The new Games app is split into four tabs, including Home, Arcade, Play Together, and Library. The Library tab includes all of the games that you have played across all of your devices. The Library lets you see all of your achievements in one place separated by game, with filters to separate them by platform.
11. Move Widgets to Bottom of Lock Screen
In iOS 18, the row of widgets on your Lock Screen was literally locked in place right below the clock. In iOS 26, however, Customize mode lets you drag them down to the bottom of the screen. The new optional positioning makes tapping a widget during one-handed use a lot easier.
12. Use AirPods as Microphone When Shooting Video
You can use AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, or AirPods Pro 3 as a wireless microphone in the Camera app. With your AirPods in your ears, open the Camera app, switch to Video mode, and open Control Center. Tap Camera Controls at the top, tap Input, then select your AirPods from the pop-up menu. When you're ready, press the stem on your AirPods to begin recording video. When you're done, press your AirPods stem again to end the shoot.
13. Restore Safari's Old Layout
iOS 26 introduces a new "Compact" Safari design as the default, but Apple has included two additional layout options that essentially restore the iOS 18 experience. Go to Settings ➝ Apps ➝ Safari, scroll down to the "Tabs" section, then select either Bottom or Top instead of Compact. Both the Bottom and Top options function exactly like the Safari tab bar layouts from iOS 18, so you don't need to relearn how to navigate between tabs or access your bookmarks.
14. Add a Reminder With Action Button
A "New Reminder" control lets you create tasks without opening the Reminders app. If you have an iPhone 15 Pro or newer, you can assign it to the Action button: Open Settings ➝ Action Button, then swipe to Controls and choose New Reminder from the list of available actions. When you activate the New Reminder control, the Reminders app isn't actually opened. Instead, iOS 26 displays a compact popup panel that includes everything you need to create a task: you can select the Reminders List, add a note, the date, location, and a flag.
15. Keep iPhone Camera Lens Clean
Apple has a helpful new feature that notifies you when your iPhone's camera lens needs cleaning – something Android devices have offered for years. Go to Settings ➝ Camera and toggle on Lens Cleaning Hints. Now whenever your iPhone's camera is active, it will monitor the incoming light for signs of reduced clarity or smudging that could indicate a dirty lens. When triggered, you'll see a discrete alert suggesting you clean your camera lens to improve image quality.
16. Control Game Settings
When you start a game, Game Mode is activated. If you tap into Control Center within Game Mode, you'll see an "Overlay" option. Tap that and you can see leaderboards, invite friends to play, and control game settings like sound level, display brightness, and controller parameters.
17. Save Physical Card Details in Wallet
Apple's Wallet app now lets you store physical card information alongside your digital payment cards. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone, then tap one of your stored cards. Alternatively, add a new card using the + button, then select it in Wallet. Tap the "123" card symbol at the top, then authenticate with Face ID or your passcode. Select Add Physical Card Information, and fill in your card details including name, number, expiry date (optional), and security code. It's a simple addition in iOS 26, but it brings the Wallet app closer to being a comprehensive card management tool, filling the gap that third-party apps like 1Password typically fill.
18. Check Remaining iPhone Charge Time
Instead of waiting around or checking your battery percentage every few minutes, you can now see exactly how much time remains until your device reaches 100% when charging. Open Settings ➝ Battery, and look for the time estimate displayed next to the charging indicator. The estimate appears as a simple readout like "18m" or "45m," giving you an immediate answer to how long you'll need to wait for a full charge.
19. Make Your Favorite Podcasts Easier to Hear
Apple has finally caught up with rival podcast apps like Overcast by adding an Enhance Dialogue feature to the Podcasts app. The new audio processing option isolates voices and makes them sound clearer, which should prove ideal for any mumbled true crime episodes or echo-heavy interview shows you listen to. In the Podcasts app, open the fullscreen playback controls, tap the playback speed button (1x) in the bottom left, then tap the Enhance Dialogue toggle. The Podcasts app remembers your preference for each individual podcast, so you won't need to toggle it on and off every time you switch between shows with different audio quality standards.
20. Use Folders to Manage Music Playlists
Apple Music now has playlist folders, bringing the same organizational power that's long been available for photos and notes to your music collection. In the Playlist section, tap the + icon at the top, choose New Folder... from the popup menu, give your folder a name, then tap Create. To move playlists into the folder, simply long press one, choose Move to... from the popup menu, thence the folder from All Playlists, then tap the red Move button.
21. Remix the Classic iPhone Ringtone
The iconic "Reflection" ringtone – introduced in 2017 alongside the iPhone X – now has multiple alternate versions in iOS 26. While the original tone retains its familiar pellucid xylophone melody, there are six new variants that bring new energy to the classic, including Buoyant, Dreamer, Pond, Pop, Reflected, and Surge. You can find and select the new ringtones in Settings ➝ Sound & Haptics ➝ Ringtone. Tap the chevron next to Reflection to expand the list and reveal the new versions. In an extra Easter egg, Apple also added a new ringtone called Little Bird, which is distinct from the new Reflection options.
22. Control iPhone Camera With AirPods
In iOS 26, AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 come with the ability to control iPhone photo and video capture using AirPods stem gestures. To enable the feature, connect your AirPods to your iPhone, open Settings, and tap your AirPods name. Scroll down to "Camera Control," then tap Camera Remote and choose your preferred gesture: Press Once or Press and Hold. Once enabled, the feature works seamlessly with the built-in Camera app. Wearing at least one paired AirPod, simply open the Camera app and select either Photo or Video mode, then frame your shot as you normally would. When you're ready to capture, use your chosen AirPods gesture to trigger the camera remotely.
23. Block Sensitive Content in FaceTime
In iOS 26, the Sensitive Content Warning and Communication Safety features are available for FaceTime video calls. When nudity is detected, the FaceTime video will pause and a warning about nude content will be displayed. To enable the feature, go to the Privacy & Security section of the Settings app and toggle on Sensitive Content Warning. Adults can also opt to turn on Communication Safety in the Screen Time section of the Settings app.
24. Choose Time Zone for a Reminder
The Reminders app now lets you choose time zones. To set one for all reminders, go to Settings ➝ Apps ➝ Reminders ➝ Time Zone, turn on Set Manually, then tap Time Zone and search for your preferred location. You can also assign a different time zone to individual reminders. When creating a new reminder, tap Time, then select the desired time zone for that reminder.
25. Ask Reason for Calling
Apple has expanded call screening functionality in iOS 26, and there is an option to ask unknown callers (aka people who you don't have saved in your Contacts list) for their name and reason for calling. Your iPhone can intercept an incoming call, request the person's name and a short reason for calling. The information is transcribed to text and relayed to you, and you can decide whether to ask for more information, accept the call, or decline the call. To enable the feature, go to Settings ➝ Apps ➝ Phone, then toggle on Ask Reason for Calling.
26. Stop Maps Tracking Your Visited Places
Apple Maps is able to keep track of the places that you've visited, either in your hometown or while traveling. It can track the restaurants, shops, parks, and landmarks that you go to, so you can look back and remember where you've been. You can see your Visited Places by opening up the Maps app, tapping on your profile picture, tapping on Places, and then tapping into Visited Places. After you upgrade to iOS 26, the Maps app pops up an alert letting you know about the new feature, so that you can opt in or opt out. If you opted in but now find it creepy, turn it off by going to Settings ➝ Apps ➝ Maps ➝ Location, and toggling off Visited Places.
iFixit today disassembled the AirPods Pro 3, giving us a look at what's inside and how the AirPods Pro 3 have changed in comparison to the AirPods Pro 2.
Apple designed the AirPods Pro 3 with a new foam-infused tip, and the design change is mainly visible under a microscope. You can see a small layer of foam at the top of the earbud where it meets the ear.
The AirPods have a 0.221 Wh battery cell inside, while the case has a single 1.334 Wh battery. The AirPods Pro 2 had two battery cells inside the case, and the change explains why we're down to 24 hours of battery life from the case instead of 30 hours like the AirPods Pro 2.
The case has fewer rare earth magnets inside, but they've been placed in different locations to ensure that MagSafe and Qi 2 charging still works as expected.
To get a look at other components inside the AirPods Pro 3, iFixit essentially had to destroy them because Apple didn't design them to be repaired.
Since the first version of the AirPods launched, they've included a battery that is sealed shut with glue, and that hasn't changed with the AirPods Pro 3. iFixit says battery replacements are so difficult that many repair shops won't even attempt to do it. The AirPods Pro Charging Case has the same glued-in battery.
There's no way to attempt a battery repair without causing blemishes on the plastic of the earbuds and the casing, because they have to be pried open. Heat needs to be used to melt the adhesive, and there's no easy way to disconnect the flex cable that's inside each earbud.
With the need for specialized equipment and the inability to repair the earbuds and the case without causing damage, the AirPods Pro 3 earned a 0 out of 10 repairability score from iFixit.
The all-new iPhone Air comes in four distinct color options, so which should you choose?
With its ultra-thin titanium frame, large display, and glass back, the iPhone Air takes a different aesthetic direction from the rest of the iPhone lineup. This year's finishes emphasize lightness and subtle sophistication, reflecting the phone's positioning as Apple's thinnest and most design-focused device.
Both Apple's frosted and bumper cases noticeably show the device's color. The Air's full-width camera plateau draws attention to the device's color even with a case, making it all the more important to choose wisely.
Sky Blue
Sky Blue is the most expressive iPhone Air color choice, offering the most noticeable personality. Under bright daylight, it appears light and airy, in keeping with the device's name and design ethos. Indoors, the shade deepens somewhat, giving the phone more presence and contrast. It is the most dynamic finish, changing character with the light around it.
It is not a neutral choice, but for many, that's the point. That being said, it still pairs well with cases. It is similar to the iPhone 13 Pro's Sierra Blue finish.
Choose Sky Blue if you want a bold, fresh color that's unique to the iPhone Air.
Cloud White
Cloud White is the purest and most forgiving finish in the lineup. Its reflective edges and light back makes the iPhone Air feel brighter, thinner, and even more delicate in hand. The neutrality of this color means it complements nearly any case, wallpaper, or environment. It is also the finish most in keeping with Apple's traditional choices.
From a practical standpoint, Cloud White hides imperfections well. Scratches or chips fade into the background. It will likely look newer for longer, making it the most pragmatic choice for users who care about maintaining a clean appearance. The trade-off is that Cloud White lacks the boldness or distinction of the other options.
Choose Cloud White if you want the most classic, versatile, and long-lasting finish.
Space Black
Space Black is the most severe of the options; it absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Both the sides and the back are a very similar color, turning the Air into a more seamless monolith of glass and metal. This finish may resonate with users who prefer a professional, low-profile aesthetic that pairs neatly with dark outfits or accessories. However, it is the least effective finish at emphasizing the device's thin profile.
While the iPhone Air is a surprisingly durable device, the Space Black color option is the most vulnerable to damage. The finish creates sharp contrast when it chips or scratches, making wear more obvious than on other models. Fingerprints are also more visible, especially on the polished edges. For users who go caseless, Space Black will likely show its age the fastest.
Choose Space Black if you want a stark, minimalist finish that feels modern and discreet, knowing it may show wear over time and be the least effective at conveying the device's thin design.
Light Gold
Light Gold sits somewhere in between tradition and flair. Its champagne tone carries a sense of luxury without being ostentatious. In bright light, it looks almost white. At other times it glows warmly and, in dim conditions, it becomes more muted. While subtle, the finish is distinct enough to stand apart from the monochromatic options.
Some users may also find pairing cases with the warmth of Light Gold tricky, since it leans best toward neutral or complementary warm tones. For users who want a device that signals a more sophisticated, luxurious look that compliments the thin design, this may be the best option.
Choose Light Gold if you want a distinctive, sophisticated finish with a little more character than Cloud White.
The leaked products include an iPad Pro with an M5 chip, as well as updated MacBook Pro and Apple Vision Pro models. All of these devices had already been rumored previously, and only minor spec bumps are expected for each of them, so the leaks did not reveal any major new details. Still, the leaks provide additional evidence that the products are in Apple's pipeline, with at least some likely to be announced this October.
It is unclear if Apple plans to host an event this October, or if the company will announce its latest products with a series of press releases and product videos. However, an October event seems likely if the M5 chip debuts this month, as the standard version of the M1 through M4 chips were allunveiledduringevents. There is no guarantee that pattern will continue, of course, but an October event seems more likely than not at this point.
According to the Geekbench 6 benchmark result shown in one of the videos, the 9-core M5 chip offers up to 12% faster multi-core CPU performance compared to the 9-core M4 chip in the current iPad Pro. As for graphics performance, the M5 chip appears to have up to a 36% faster GPU than the M4 chip, per the Metal score shown.
The benchmark result also showed the iPad Pro with 256GB of storage will have 12GB of RAM, just like the iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. iPad Pro models with the M4 chip have only 8GB of RAM when equipped with 256GB of storage.
Based on the videos, the next iPad Pro models will not have any obvious external design changes, aside from "iPad Pro" no longer being inscribed on the back of the device. A spec bump from the M4 chip to the M5 chip is the key change expected.
It was previously rumored that the next iPad Pro models will have two front cameras, instead of one, making it easy to have video calls in both portrait and landscape orientations. One of the unboxing videos seems to indicate that this rumor is true, but it is not entirely clear, so we shall see what Apple's eventual announcement says.
MacBook Pro
FCC documents that were accidentally released to the public, despite Apple's confidentiality requests, revealed a regulatory label for an unreleased MacBook Pro with a model identifier of A3434. This is likely one of the updated 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips that are rumored to launch in late 2025 or early 2026. No other major changes are expected beyond the faster chip options.
Not much can be gleaned from the documents, aside from there being no references to Wi-Fi 7 support in them. Instead, the documents suggest the next MacBook Pro models will remain limited to Wi-Fi 6E, based on the tests that were completed. Wi-Fi 7 support is not entirely ruled out yet, but keep your expectations low for now.
If you can wait, rumors suggest bigger changes are planned for the two-generations-away MacBook Pro models in late 2026 or early 2027.
Finally, FCC documents also revealed an updated version of the Apple Vision Pro headset, with a model identifier of A3416. According to the documents, it appears the headset will continue to support Wi-Fi 6, instead of Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7.
Amazon is discounting the second generation 40mm GPS Apple Watch SE to $179.00 today, down from $249.00. This is just $10 higher when compared to the all-time low price on this 2022 Apple Watch SE model, and the lowest we've tracked in a few weeks.
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The model on sale at this price is the Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band, and you'll also find a few more color options at a slightly higher price of $189.00 this week on Amazon. The Midnight Apple Watch SE is in stock and can be delivered by October 6 for free delivery, or same day for Prime members.
Additionally, you can get the 44mm GPS Apple Watch SE at the low price of $199.00 today on Amazon, down from $279.00. This one is available in Midnight and Starlight Aluminum colors, and in both Sport Loop and Sport Band options.
Amazon also has big discounts on cellular models of the second generation Apple Watch SE. You can get the 40mm cellular model for $189.00 and the 44mm cellular model for $219.00, both of which are $110 discounts and all-time low prices.
If you're looking for the newest Apple Watch SE, there are some launch deals on these models, but don't expect any big discounts. You can get the 40mm GPS model for $239.99 and the 44mm GPS model for $269.99, both of which are $9 discounts on the brand new device.
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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The UK government has issued a new request for Apple to provide access to encrypted iCloud user data, the Financial Times reports.
The report reveals that, in early September, the UK Home Office demanded that Apple creates a way for officials to access encrypted iCloud backups. Unlike its previous order, the latest request focuses on the iCloud data of British citizens specifically. The demand is designed to aid law enforcement with investigations into terrorism and child sexual abuse.
The Home Office's previous request from January sought access to encrypted user data worldwide, which triggered a diplomatic clash between the UK and U.S. governments. The Trump administration pressured the UK to discard the order and, in August, director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said that the UK had "agreed to drop" its demand, at least with regards to the encrypted data of American citizens.
In February, Apple withdrew iCloud's Advanced Data Protection feature in the UK and raised public objections to the request. It also registered a complaint with the Investigatory Powers Tribunal and supported a legal challenge from the campaign group Privacy International and Liberty.
Questions remain around whether the Trump administration has relaxed its view of the issue, and whether building a backdoor into encrypted iCloud data for the British government would jeopardize the security of global user data.
Note: Due to the political or social nature of the discussion regarding this topic, the discussion thread is located in our Political News forum. All forum members and site visitors are welcome to read and follow the thread, but posting is limited to forum members with at least 100 posts.
Apple is expected to launch a new foldable iPhone next year, based on multiple rumors and credible sources. The long-awaited device has been rumored for years now, but signs increasingly suggest that 2026 could indeed be the year that Apple releases its first foldable device.
Below, we've collated an updated set of key details that have been leaked about Apple's foldable iPhone so far.
Overall Design
Book-Style
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple's foldable iPhone is similar in style to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold, which uses a book-style folding mechanism, rather than the clamshell design of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip. Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects the foldable iPhone to measure between 9 and 9.5 mm when folded, and around 4.5 to 4.8 mm when unfolded. More recently, Weibo-based leaker Instant Digital has said that the foldable iPhone will have a thickness of at least 4.8mm.
Display Sizes
Dual Screens
When folded, users will interact with a 5.5-inch outer display that is similar to a typical iPhone screen, while unfolding it will reveal a larger 7.8-inch iPad-style screen. The inner display is said to be virtually crease-free, thanks to Apple's use of a metal plate that can disperse and control the stress generated by bending the display. These dimensions have been corroborated by two reputable sources. According to one rumor, the inner folding display will have a 4:3 aspect ratio and use a 2,713 x 1,920 resolution, while the outer display will use a 2,088 x 1,422 resolution.
Chassis and Hinge
Durable Materials
The foldable iPhone reportedly has a titanium chassis, with the hinge constructed from a combination of titanium and stainless steel, according to Kuo. Apple is said to be using liquid metal in the hinges to improve durability and help eliminate screen creasing. Liquid metal, manufactured using a die-casting process, has been chosen by Apple to address these two common issues with foldable devices, according to the analyst.
Cameras
Front and Rear
The foldable iPhone is expected to include a dual-lens rear camera, with a front-facing camera for both folded and unfolded states, according to Kuo. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman recently corroborated reports that the device will have four cameras consisting of one front camera, one inner camera, and two rear cameras. Prolific Weibo-based leaker Digital Chat Station claims that the rear dual lenses will be 48 megapixels each. Other sources have claimed that the inner display features an under-screen camera (USC), while the outer display – in the device's folded state – will have a punch-hole camera.
Authentication
Touch ID
Kuo believes the phone will forgo Face ID authentication, and instead use a Touch ID side button as a means to save precious internal space, and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman recently corroborated the rumor. Apple has previously integrated Touch ID into the side button of the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad mini.
Cellular Connectivity
C1 Modem
The foldable iPhone will use Apple's second-generation C2 modem for cellular connectivity, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Apple debuted its custom-designed C1 modem in the iPhone 16e earlier this year, as part of a multi-year plan to transition away from Qualcomm modems. Gurman says the foldable device will not have a physical SIM slot.
Battery Life
High-Density Cells
Apple is putting a heavy focus on improving power efficiency by slimming down key components like the display driver to make room for more battery cells, according to a Korean blog that has leaked accurate details about unreleased products before. The phone will reportedly use high-density battery cells – the same ones that Kuo believes will be used in Apple's upcoming ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air. Expect the C2 modem to be faster overall, and for it to gain mmWave support in the United States. Further power efficiency improvements are likely too.
Color Options
Black and White
Apple is currently only testing variations of black and white for the folding phone with suppliers, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, although he says that Apple's plans could evolve before the device launches.
Pricing
Premium Segment
Multiplereports suggest the foldable iPhone will be priced between $2,000 and $2,500 in the United States, which could make it the most expensive iPhone ever. More recently, analysts at investment banking firm UBS believe the phone will be between $1,800 and $2,000. Regardless of the price, the foldable is expected to tap into Apple's loyal fanbase, some of whom will view it as a "must-have device" if its quality meets expectations.
Launch Date
Late 2026
According to industry analyst Jeff Pu, the device entered the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn in March. Foxconn is expected to officially start producing Apple's foldable iPhone late in the third quarter of 2025 (late September), or early in the fourth quarter (October). An exact launch date is currently unknown, but both Kuo and Pu say mass production is planned for the second half of 2026. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman has said he expects the device to be launched next year in the fall season.
Epic Games has claimed that Apple's revised installation process for third-party app marketplaces in the EU demonstrates that the company was deliberately undermining competition through "deceptive design."
In a blog post published Wednesday, the Fortnite developer revealed that user drop-offs during Epic Games Store installations plummeted from 65% to 25% after Apple streamlined the process in iOS 18.6. Apple reduced the installation flow from 15 steps to six and eliminated what Epic called "scare screens" that warned users about potential dangers of installing apps outside the App Store.
"For the first time, we are starting to see iOS users install the Epic Games Store with a success rate approaching Windows users and Apple's own Mac users," Epic said.
The changes came after the European Commission raised concerns in April that Apple made it "overly burdensome and confusing" for users to install alternative app distribution channels under the Digital Markets Act.
Image: Epic
Despite the improvements, Epic said Apple's policies remain anti-competitive, citing "junk fees" such as the Core Technology Fee, "discriminatory policies" against developers who support competing stores, and an approval and notarization process that "dictate[s] product design decisions to competing app developers and store developers."
Epic also criticized Google's 12-step installation process on Android, which remains in place, claiming it sabotages Epic Games Store installations more than 50% of the time.
Apple has filed a court motion to dismiss Elon Musk's lawsuit alleging the company conspired with OpenAI to stifle competition in the AI market, arguing the antitrust claims are based on "speculation on top of speculation."
In a Texas filing Tuesday, Apple's lawyers defended the company's decision to integrate ChatGPT into iOS, claiming it did nothing wrong in selecting OpenAI as its initial generative AI partner. The filing says it is "widely known that Apple intends to partner with other generative AI chatbots" beyond OpenAI in the future.
The motion likely refers to reports that Apple is working to integrate other chatbots like Gemini into Siri. Indeed, Google CEO Sundar Pichai earlier this year commented about talks with Apple on this very subject.
Apple argued that xAI's lawsuit essentially demands the company partner with "every other generative AI chatbot – regardless of quality, privacy or safety considerations, technical feasibility, stage of development, or commercial terms." Apple's lawyers noted that antitrust laws do not require such an approach.
Musk's xAI and X (Twitter) sued Apple and OpenAI in August, seeking billions in damages over claims that Apple's partnership with OpenAI stifled AI industry innovation and limited consumer choice. The lawsuit specifically cited X and Grok's absence from the App Store's "Must Have" section and ChatGPT's exclusive integration with Siri.
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Amazon today announced the launch of new Echo Dot Max, Echo Studio, Echo Show 8, and Echo Show 11 smart speakers, all of which are designed to work with Amazon's Alexa+ AI assistant.
The new speakers have faster chips with AI acceleration, and a custom sensor platform called Omnisense. Omnisense was created for ambient AI, and it leverages sensors and signals to act on events that are happening in the home. Amazon says it can do things like provide a reminder when a specific person walks in a room, or send an alert that the garage door is unlocked and it's after 10 p.m.
Amazon's updated Echo Dot Max and Echo Studio look like a cross between a HomePod mini and an older Echo device, featuring 3D knit fabric and a front-facing light ring with on-device controls. The Echo Dot Max has two speakers and a rearchitected sound system with fuller bass, while the Echo Studio offers spatial audio, Dolby Atmos, and immersive bass in a compact package. The Echo Show devices have an improved viewing experience, an integrated 13-megapixel camera, and an Alexa+ Home app for controlling all smart devices at once.
Amazon's Echo Dot and Echo Studio are relevant because the products compete directly with Apple's HomePod and HomePod mini. Apple doesn't have an Echo Show-like product yet, but a smart home hub with a screen is in the works and slated to launch next year.
Amazon plans to launch an Alexa+ Store in the near future, and it will offer access to thousands of devices and services that integrate with Amazon AI. Amazon is working with Bose, Sonos, LG, Samsung, BMW, and more to add Alexa+ into their products.
The Echo devices are available for pre-order starting today, and customers will get early access to Alexa+ with purchase. The Echo Dot Max is $100, the Echo Studio is $220, the Echo Show 8 is $180, and the Echo Show 11 is $220.
The United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has seemingly confirmed Apple's work on an updated version of the Vision Pro headset.
One of several documents the FCC shared today references an Apple-designed "Head Mounted Device" with a model number of A3416. An included image confirms the device is a Vision Pro.
The FCC's uploads are transmission tests, SAR test reports, and WLAN test reports, so there's not a lot of additional product information available. We do know that the next Vision Pro will continue to have Wi-Fi 6, as there's no sign of 6GHz Wi-Fi in the testing that the FCC did.
According to rumors, Apple is working on a refreshed version of the Vision Pro that has a faster M5 chip. The headset isn't expected to feature design updates, with Apple simply updating the M2 chip to a newer, more capable M-series chip. The updated Vision Pro could launch before the end of the year, and it will likely continue to be priced at $3,499.
The FCC's files include a confidentiality request from Apple, but the documents were published anyway. The FCC also shared documents that hint at future MacBook Pro and iPad Pro models.
A slimmed-down "Vision Air" is in development too, but we aren't expecting that until 2027.
The United States Federal Communications Commission has confirmed Apple's work on a new version of the MacBook Pro and several other products, leaking details on the devices ahead of launch.
The FCC published documents that reference model numbers that do not correspond with existing devices. A3434, for example, references an unreleased MacBook Pro, while other numbers are likely for upcoming M5 iPad Pro models. The FCC doesn't include product names in the documents that it shared, but we can guess based on the model numbers of current devices, and we do already know that the A3360 model number is an M5 iPad Pro.
A3434 - Unknown MacBook Pro, likely one of the M5 models that Apple has in the works.
A3357 - 11-inch Wi-Fi iPad Pro.
A3358/A3359 - 11-inch Cellular iPad Pro models.
A3360 - 13-inch Wi-Fi iPad Pro.
A3361/A3362 - 13-inch Cellular iPad Pro models.
With just model numbers, there are few specifications that can be gleaned from the FCC's leak, but it does confirm Apple's work on new devices. It also potentially gives us some insight into a launch timeline, as these kinds of documents are typically filed in the weeks ahead of a product's debut. We do know that the new M5 iPad Pro models appear to support Wi-Fi 7, while the M5 MacBook Pro model listed does not.
Just today, an unboxing video featuring the M5 iPad Pro showed up on YouTube, and rumors suggest that we'll be getting new iPad Pro models before the end of the year.
Apple is also wrapping up work on M5 versions of the MacBook Pro, and mass production is set to begin soon. Refreshed MacBook Pro models with M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips could launch sometime between late 2025 and early 2026.
Earlier this week, the FCC also published a 163-page document featuring full schematics of the iPhone 16e, which presumably Apple did not want shared with the public.
The feature is already available in more than 150 countries and regions, including the U.S. and many European countries, but it has yet to launch in Canada. That should soon change, now that the feature has received a license from Health Canada.
Hypertension Notifications are available on the Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, with watchOS 26 installed.
The feature can alert users if signs of chronic hypertension (high blood pressure) 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 users are notified if consistent signs of hypertension are detected.
Apple:
The feature works passively in the background during waking hours, analyzing data over discrete 30-day intervals to detect signs of hypertension. It does not require calibration, it does not measure blood pressure directly, and does not surface a blood pressure reading to users. Instead, the Hypertension Notification Feature notifies users if optical heart sensor data shows signs of hypertension after 30 days.
Apple said the feature underwent "rigorous scientific validation," as outlined in a 12-page document. 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.
Apple says the feature is "not intended for use by people under 22 years old, those who have been previously diagnosed with hypertension, or during pregnancy."
OpenAI today announced the launch of Sora, an invite-only AI video app and social network. Sora lets you create realistic AI videos of yourself, friends, and other people.
Sora uses the Sora 2 video generation model, which OpenAI says is more physically accurate, realistic, and controllable than prior systems. It is able to generate complex movements while better obeying the laws of physics, and OpenAI says it excels at realistic, cinematic, and anime styles.
Sora 2 supports generating video that also includes audio, such as real-sounding speech, background soundscapes, and sound effects.
The AI model is able to observe a video of a person and then insert them into a Sora-generated environment while accurately portraying their appearance and voice, which is the basis for the new Sora app.
With the Sora app, you can create a video of yourself that can then be inserted into "cameos," which are short videos that are shared with others on the Sora social network. You can opt to allow other people to create cameos with your likeness as well. You can choose who can use your cameo, and you will see all videos that include cameos with your likeness, even drafts before they are published to the network.
OpenAI designed Sora to show you content based on people you follow or interact with, and the app will poll you regularly on your wellbeing. There are controls to modify what's displayed in a feed, and OpenAI says that it is meant to be used with friends. For that reason, Sora is invite only, ensuring people join the app alongside people they know.
The Sora app for iOS is available to download now, and it can be used in the United States and Canada. Those invited to the app will be able to use Sora 2 on the Sora website.
Sora 2 is free for now, and ChatGPT Pro users have access to the Sora 2 Pro model on Sora.com.
In the test, the iPhone Air reached a peak charging speed of around 18W to 19W.
For comparison, ChargerLAB found the standard iPhone 17 reached a peak of 27W to 28W, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max reached a peak of around 36W.
Like the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, Apple says the iPhone Air can be charged up to 50% in 30 minutes with a compatible 20W or higher charger. For comparison, Apple says the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max can charge up to 50% in 20 minutes, so the iPhone Air charges a bit slower. However, slower charging also means less heat will be generated, which is good for long-term battery health.
The iPhone Air features the first redesigned form factor that Apple has come out with in several years, but it's not without compromises because of its thin design. MacRumors videographer Dan Barbera has been using the iPhone Air as his main device for the last two weeks to see if those compromises are worth dealing with day-to-day.
The "awe" feeling of using a lightweight, compact iPhone doesn't go away over time, and it's still a delight to use such a thin device. 6.5 inches is an ideal screen size, and even though it's a large phone, it's not heavy. If you've ever had hand strain from using a brick-like iPhone Pro or Pro Max, the Air will be a relief. It's just all-around easier to hold than Apple's heavier iPhones.
Unfortunately, the matte black iPhone Air accumulates fingerprints and smudges, which is a problem when you're using it without a case. The lighter colors like white, gold, and blue look less grimy over time. In practice, Apple's new sky blue color is such a light shade that it's almost white with just a hint of blue.
The iPhone Air's strong titanium frame isn't going to bend, based on multiple tests. The Ceramic Shield 2 at the front is more resistant to scratches, and the Ceramic Shield at the back also holds up better to drops. It's more durable, which is a good thing for a device you might not want to put a case on.
Apple swapped titanium for aluminum in the iPhone 17 Pro models because aluminum is better at dissipating heat, but the iPhone Air still uses titanium for durability. Like the titanium iPhone 16 models, the iPhone Air can get warm to the touch. There is a noticeable difference between the A19 Pro in the iPhone 17 Pro and the A19 Pro in the iPhone Air when it is under heavy load, and there is occasionally some throttling on the Air.
The iPhone Air has the smallest battery of the 2025 iPhone lineup, but some people may be able to get through the day without needing to recharge. The battery lasts longer than the iPhone 16 battery, but it doesn't come close to the battery life you can get with the iPhone 17 Pro Max or even the 17 Pro.
Another major compromise is the camera. The iPhone Air has a single-lens Fusion camera, which is basically the same as the main wide-angle camera in the other iPhone 17 models. You don't get ultra-wide images, Telephoto images, or macro photos, plus there's no option to capture spatial photos and videos for the Vision Pro. If you're someone that uses more than the wide-angle lens, you might miss the versatility you get with other iPhones.
At $999, the iPhone Air is $200 more than the iPhone 17 and $100 less than the iPhone 17 Pro, so it's an expensive device that does cause you to lose out on some features. It's the iPhone to get if you want to prioritize thin and light over everything else, but you can get more functionality by spending $200 less or $100 more.
