Tag: Apple Music

  • Apple tvOS 26 Transforms Apple TVs into Karaoke Machines

    Apple tvOS 26 Transforms Apple TVs into Karaoke Machines

    Key Takeaways

    1. Karaoke Feature: tvOS 26 allows Apple TVs to function as karaoke machines using iPhones as microphones, with music, lighting effects, and real-time translations.

    2. Expanded Language Support: Enhanced Live Captions during FaceTime calls now available in multiple languages, including French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish.

    3. Interface Redesign: The new Liquid Glass design features semi-transparent elements and updated poster art, aiming to reduce distractions while watching content.

    4. User Profiles and Recommendations: Personalized suggestions linked to user profiles for easier access; new APIs simplify app and watchlist transfers to new Apple TV devices.

    5. Stunning Screen Savers: Users can enjoy beautiful aerial photographs of various landscapes as screen savers when their Apple TVs are on.

    Apple has introduced tvOS 26 for its streaming media devices, Apple TV. This update brings a variety of new features and a redesigned interface. Developers can start using the OS right away, while the general public will get access to a beta version next month.

    Karaoke Feature

    One of the standout features of tvOS 26 is its capability to transform Apple TVs (2nd generation or later, like the one available on Amazon) into karaoke machines when used with iPhones (11 or newer) as microphones. The Apple Music app will provide music alongside lighting effects, real-time translations, and pronunciation of lyrics for songs in supported languages. Viewers can cheer on singers by sending emojis that appear on screen. Users have the option to choose any AirPlay-compatible speaker (for instance, this HomePod on Amazon) as the main output speaker for their Apple TVs.

    Expanded Language Support

    Apple TV users will benefit from enhanced language support for Live Captions during FaceTime calls, now available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish. Users can also personalize their contacts with photos, making it easier to recognize them at a glance.

    Interface Redesign

    The interface has been updated with a Liquid Glass design, showcasing movies and shows with new poster art. The design features buttons and GUI elements that are semi-transparent, allowing for lighting effects from the images beneath them.

    These subtle interface elements aim to avoid distractions while watching content, but they could present challenges for users with limited vision. It still needs to be determined if a high-contrast version of the user interface can be activated in tvOS 26.

    User Profiles and Recommendations

    Personalized suggestions and watchlists are linked to user profiles, which appear on the screen when the Apple TV is woken up for quick login options. Developers will find it easier to transfer watchlists and apps to new Apple TV devices, thanks to new APIs that connect app logins to user accounts, simplifying the transition from older models to the latest ones.

    For users who keep their Apple TVs on, they can enjoy stunning aerial photographs of cityscapes, earth, landscapes, or underwater scenes as screen savers.

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    Apple tvOS 26 Transforms Apple TVs into Karaoke Machines
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  • iOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features Revealed

    iOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has renamed all software updates to a unified version number, now at 26, including iOS 26.
    2. iOS 26 introduces significant lock screen enhancements with 3D wallpapers and dynamic elements, plus a revamped Phone app with AI call screening.
    3. The update features Live Translation across all apps and real-time text translation during phone calls and music playback.
    4. iMessage receives new updates, including themes, typing indicators, an automatic spam filter, and the ability to create polls.
    5. The iOS 26 developer beta is available for iPhone 11 and newer, with specific features exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro and newer models; a public beta will launch in July.

    As mentioned by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has made a significant change in how it names its software updates. Everything is now numbered 26, including iOS 26. This update introduces a major visual change that aligns with Apple’s new Liquid Glass style. There’s a lot to anticipate in this update, although some may justifiably claim that many of these features have already been seen on Android for some time.

    Exciting Lock Screen Enhancements

    The first noticeable upgrades with iOS 26 pertain to the lock screen, which now offers 3D wallpapers and elements that change dynamically based on what’s shown on the screen. The Phone app has also undergone a much-needed makeover and has added some new functionalities. With Call Screening, AI technology can now answer calls for you. This feature has been available on Google Pixel phones for a while, so it’s nice to see iOS finally catch up.

    Live Translation and More

    Another impressive feature in iOS 26 is Live Translation. It operates across all apps, including iMessage, and can even translate text in real-time during phone calls. Additionally, song lyrics in the Music app can be translated as they play. Apple Music now includes a mixer-like feature that allows for smooth transitions between songs. iMessage has finally updated to compete with giants like WhatsApp and Telegram, offering themes for individual conversations and ‘typing’ indicators.

    Moreover, iMessage now includes an automatic spam text filter. Messages from unknown contacts will remain hidden in your notifications unless you choose otherwise. Users can also create polls. Apple Maps now remembers places you’ve visited, similar to Google Maps. Apple has taken another cue from Google with Apple Games, a centralized hub for all your games.

    Availability and Compatibility

    The iOS 26 developer beta is currently available for download on the iPhone 11 and newer devices. Features that utilize Apple Intelligence will only function on the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and newer models. A public beta for iOS 26 is set to launch in July, with a stable version expected to follow shortly after.

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    iOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features Revealed

     

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  • Apple Music and UMG Launch New Lo-Fi Beats Playlists

    Apple Music and UMG Launch New Lo-Fi Beats Playlists

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple Music and Universal Music Group (UMG) are collaborating on a Sound Therapy project to help listeners relax, concentrate, and improve sleep quality.

    2. The project features well-known songs from UMG’s library enhanced with “special sound waves” like delta waves and pink noise for sleep, and gamma waves with white noise for focus.

    3. There are three curated playlists: Focus (for productivity), Relax (for stress relief), and Sleep (for deep sleep), featuring remixed versions of popular tracks.

    4. The collection was curated by Sollos, a music wellness branch within UMG, and includes artists like Imagine Dragons, Katy Perry, and Chelsea Cutler.

    5. The Sound Therapy collection will also be available on Apple Music’s new Chill radio station, promoting the use of music for wellness.

    Apple Music and Universal Music Group (UMG) are now collaborating on a fresh Sound Therapy project, an audio compilation aimed at helping listeners to relax, concentrate, or improve their sleep quality.

    Enhancing Your Experience

    This initiative takes well-known songs from the extensive UMG library and incorporates “special sound waves” that the companies assert will aid in “enhancing users’ daily routines.” For instance, introducing delta waves and pink noise, which are akin to sounds of rain or wind, might assist in better sleep. On the other hand, using gamma waves along with white noise can enhance focus.

    Curated Playlists for Every Mood

    The new collection consists of specially curated playlists for three distinct categories: Focus, Relax, and Sleep. The Focus playlist aims to boost concentration and productivity, the Relax playlist is designed for unwinding and reducing stress, while the Sleep playlist promotes deep sleep, a state of relaxation and restoration.

    These playlists are made by remixing existing songs from UMG’s library, adding those extra sound waves. For instance, listeners can enjoy a soothing chill version of Katy Perry’s “Double Rainbow” or a Relax remix of Chelsea Cutler’s “The Stars.”

    Behind the Scenes

    The entire collection was thoughtfully curated and remixed by a group at Sollos, a music wellness branch located within UMG’s London offices. It showcases “extended, instrumental, and reimagined versions of popular tracks from well-regarded artists like Imagine Dragons, Katy Perry, Kacey Musgraves, Ludovico Einaudi, AURORA, Jhené Aiko, Chelsea Cutler, and Jeremy Zucker.”

    “Sound Therapy is a significant endorsement of our innovative, science-driven Sollos initiative,” commented Michael Nash, UMG’s executive vice president and chief digital officer. “We’re excited to closely partner with the Apple team to broaden the ways music can be utilized to enhance wellness for users.”

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  • Home Assistant Launches Music Assistant 2.4 with New Features

    Home Assistant Launches Music Assistant 2.4 with New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Music Assistant version 2.4 enhances streaming from Assist devices and supports voice commands for song selection.
    2. The update introduces native support for podcasts and audiobooks from platforms like Subsonic, YouTube, and Audible.
    3. Spotify Connect is supported, requiring a Spotify Premium account for use.
    4. A new Digital Signal Processor (DSP) feature allows users to customize their listening experience with adjustable input/output gain and a Parametric Equalizer.
    5. Plans for future updates include an Apple AirPlay plugin for additional audio source compatibility.

    Home Assistant has shared the launch of Music Assistant version 2.4. This application is a free, open-source media library manager that allows users of Home Assistant to stream music from a variety of sources using their smart home speakers.

    Improvements in Version 2.4

    The latest version introduces enhancements for streaming from Assist devices, including the newly released Home Assistant Voice Preview Edition. Users can also employ Assist voice commands to pick a song or an artist to listen to. Furthermore, it supports external audio sources, making it compatible with Spotify Connect, although it’s important to note that a Spotify Premium account is necessary for this feature. The company has mentioned plans to add an Apple AirPlay plugin in the future.

    New Features for Audio Content

    Another significant improvement is the native support for podcasts and audiobooks through platforms such as Subsonic, YouTube, and Audible. When enjoying an audiobook, users can monitor their progress with a bar that shows dots marking the start of each chapter. Since the previous update, Music Assistant has also incorporated support for Apple Music, iBroadcast, and SiriusXM.

    Customization Options for Users

    Additionally, a new configurable Digital Signal Processor (DSP) has been introduced, which allows you to tailor your listening experience by modifying the input and output gain or utilizing the Parametric Equalizer (PEQ) tool. The full change log is accessible on GitHub. Music Assistant version 2.4 is now ready for all users, and this add-on can be installed directly from your Home Assistant.

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  • Spotify Music Pro: Get Exclusive Benefits with 50% Surcharge

    Spotify Music Pro: Get Exclusive Benefits with 50% Surcharge

    Key Takeaways

    1. Spotify HiFi was announced in February 2021 but has not yet launched, unlike competitors offering high-fidelity audio.
    2. Spotify Music Pro is expected to introduce a new pricing tier, adding about $6 to the existing $12 for Spotify Premium users.
    3. New features for Spotify Music Pro may include personalized AI-generated playlists and exclusive concert ticket access.
    4. The introduction of this premium tier is seen as essential for Spotify to increase revenue as the music streaming market becomes saturated.
    5. Spotify aims to enhance its service with exclusive content like podcasts and audiobooks while improving audio quality to attract more subscribers.

    Spotify HiFi was first revealed in February 2021, with plans to provide music in CD-quality soon after. However, while other services like Amazon Music, Tidal, and Apple Music have been offering high-fidelity audio for quite some time, there has been no indication of the much-anticipated Spotify upgrade. Recent reports from Bloomberg suggest that changes are on the horizon this year, leading to the introduction of Spotify Music Pro.

    Pricing and New Features

    Unlike Apple Music, which includes Hi-Fi quality for all its users at no additional cost, Spotify is rumored to impose an extra charge of about $6 on top of the existing $12 for Spotify Premium. This would allow listeners to enjoy superior audio quality, although the specific pricing and timeline for the global rollout are still being determined. Alongside enhanced audio quality, Spotify Music Pro is expected to offer various new features, such as personalized AI-generated playlists and exclusive concert ticket access. Subscribers may have the advantage of purchasing tickets before regular customers or gaining access to premium seating options reserved just for them.

    Market Positioning

    Spotify seems to consider this pricier subscription tier crucial for boosting its revenues, especially as the music streaming market nears saturation. In 2024, Spotify saw an 11% increase, reaching 263 million paying subscribers. The standard subscription, priced at $11.99 per month, is only $1 less than Apple Music’s offering. Currently, Spotify provides notably lower audio quality at this price point, but it aims to enhance its appeal with exclusive podcasts and audiobooks, among other content.

    Bloomberg’s insights paint a picture of Spotify’s future direction, suggesting that they are gearing up for a significant transformation in how they deliver music and engage with their audience.

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  • Apple Music Spatial Audio on LG Smart TVs: Exclusive Trial Offer

    Apple Music Spatial Audio on LG Smart TVs: Exclusive Trial Offer

    LG Electronics recently updated its Smart TV lineup, which includes OLED and QNED models, to incorporate support for Apple Music with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos, marking a significant advancement in TV technology.

    Apple Music Integration

    Users can now seamlessly access the vast Apple Music library, boasting a collection of over 100 million songs, 30,000 playlists without interruptions from ads, exclusive live content, and interviews.

    Free Trial Offer

    LG is introducing a generous three-month free trial of Apple Music, starting this week, for users of compatible Smart TVs dating back to 2018 that are powered by webOS 4.0 or later. This offer extends to unique models like StanbyME, StanbyME Go, and MyView Smart Monitor.

    Enhanced Sound Quality

    The incorporation of Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos on these TVs brings a notable enhancement to the sound quality. When paired with compatible LG soundbars, the TVs effortlessly deliver music in immersive high-quality surround sound.

    LG has made it possible for TVs that do not directly support Dolby Atmos to still deliver the Spatial Audio experience when connected to a compatible Dolby Atmos LG soundbar. The company has confirmed compatibility with various soundbar models from 2022 to 2024, including the latest SxxTR and SxxTY series, ensuring a seamless experience for users seeking top-notch audio quality.

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  • Apple Music Could Provide Incentives for Artists and Record Labels to Embrace High-Quality Audio Format

    Apple Music Could Provide Incentives for Artists and Record Labels to Embrace High-Quality Audio Format

    Apple Music to Offer Dolby Atmos Streams for Enhanced Audio Experience

    Apple Music introduced spatial audio for the first time in 2021, utilizing Dolby Atmos technology to provide a more immersive and realistic sound experience for listeners. This format allows music to emanate from different directions around the listener’s head, replicating a lifelike and three-dimensional effect.

    According to a recent Bloomberg article, Apple Music plans to expand its offering by providing streams of songs in Dolby Atmos format, in addition to the standard stereo version. This move aims to make Dolby Atmos music more widely available and provide artists with larger royalties.

    Enhancing the Listening Experience with Spatial Audio

    With this development, Apple Music users can expect to hear more spatial audio tracks that offer a truly immersive listening experience. By using audio technology to create versions with spatial sound, musicians and record labels will receive higher royalties.

    Apple Music’s new approach also benefits artists and record labels as listeners do not necessarily need to engage with the Atmos version for the artists to be compensated. This means that even if users choose to listen to the standard stereo version, artists will still receive their fair share.

    Incentivizing High-End Audio Format Adoption

    The introduction of Dolby Atmos in Apple Music presents an opportunity for well-known musicians and record companies to participate and potentially increase their royalties. Atmos technology makes music mixing more cost-effective, making it an attractive option for artists and labels.

    However, Apple has yet to officially disclose the guidelines and rewards for using the new audio format. Currently, Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, iMacs, and AirPods support Dolby Atmos, allowing users to enjoy the enhanced audio experience.

    Expanding the Availability of Spatial Audio

    In addition to Apple Music, users of Amazon Inc.’s Music app can also enjoy free Dolby Atmos-compatible spatial audio as part of their subscriptions. This move by Apple Music could be a significant step, as Spotify has not yet enabled spatial audio on its platform.

    As Apple Music continues to innovate and enhance the listening experience, the introduction of Dolby Atmos streams demonstrates their commitment to providing high-quality audio and rewarding artists and record labels for their contributions.

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