Tag: iOS 26

  • iPhone 17 Air Display Details Leaked in iOS 26 Code

    iPhone 17 Air Display Details Leaked in iOS 26 Code

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple often keeps product details secret, but leaks can occur through software code.
    2. The iPhone 17 Air has been linked to a new wallpaper resolution found in the iOS 26 beta.
    3. The leaked resolution suggests the iPhone 17 Air will have a 6.6-inch display.
    4. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a single-camera setup and an A19 SoC.
    5. There are concerns about achieving good battery life in the slim design of the iPhone 17 Air.


    Apple is well-known for keeping its upcoming product details under wraps. Even with the Cupertino giant’s best attempts, information tends to leak out occasionally, often through hidden code references in its software.

    Curious Internet Users

    Apple might think that no one would look closely enough to find clues about future products. However, the inquisitive internet folks have consistently shown otherwise. Recently, the iPhone 17 Air has become the subject of a leak that reveals information about its screen size.

    Hidden Discoveries

    In the iOS 26 beta, MacWorld found a wallpaper measuring 1260 x 2736. At first, this might not appear significant, but the situation becomes more intriguing when we consider that no iPhone currently available has that precise resolution. MacRumors highlighted that well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had mentioned earlier that the mysterious iPhone 17 Air will feature nearly the same resolution, give or take a few pixels.

    This suggests that the iPhone 17 Air will indeed have a 6.6-inch display, positioning it between the iPhone 17 and the 17 Plus/Pro Max models. This new smartphone is also anticipated to include a single-camera setup, A19 SoC, and a remarkably thin design measuring only 5.5 mm.

    Battery Life Concerns

    It remains uncertain if Apple can achieve a satisfactory battery life with such a sleek smartphone. Nonetheless, considering the benefits that Apple Silicon has offered in recent years, the challenge does seem manageable.

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  • New iPhone Reflection Ringtone in iOS 16: Nokia Remix Vibe

    New iPhone Reflection Ringtone in iOS 16: Nokia Remix Vibe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is introducing a new ringtone called Reflection Encore in the upcoming iOS 26 update.
    2. Reflection Encore resembles the original Reflection tune and has a calming vibe, appealing to users.
    3. The availability of the new ringtone for older iPhone models remains uncertain.
    4. The iOS 26 design, Liquid Glass, features subtle visuals, which may enhance the ringtone experience.
    5. Despite a trend towards using silent modes and messaging apps, Reflection Encore provides a fresh option for those who still prefer ringtones.


    Apple might introduce a new iPhone ringtone alongside the revamped Liquid Glass interface in the upcoming iOS 26 update.

    New Ringtone Unveiled

    This new ringtone, named Reflection Encore, has been found within the iOS 26 code. It resembles the original Reflection tune that Apple launched with the first iPhone X, featuring a nostalgic twist reminiscent of classic Nokia ringtones. The overall vibe of Reflection Encore is quite calm and relaxing, suggesting it could easily become a favorite among users. Plus, you can preview it right away without having to wait for the full iOS 26 rollout in the fall.

    Availability of Reflection Encore

    It’s still unclear whether the new ringtone will be limited to the iPhone 17 series, which might be named iPhone 26 to align with the changes in the iOS naming system. There’s also a chance that the iPhone 16 Pro Max and older models will be able to access this freshly remixed version when the iOS 26 update becomes available.

    Apple’s latest iOS design, dubbed Liquid Glass, focuses on subtle and clear visuals. This means that the Reflection Encore ringtone might be crafted to harmonize with the new light and airy user interface, potentially becoming the default ringtone for all iPhones.

    Changing Trends in Ringtone Usage

    However, it seems that fewer people are using ringtones nowadays, often opting to keep their iPhones on silent. Many individuals prefer communicating through messaging apps rather than making calls. Despite this trend, Reflection Encore offers a soothing option for those who want a fresh twist on their typical iPhone ringtone.

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  • Google Clarifies Samsung’s Comments on iOS 16’s Familiar Features

    Google Clarifies Samsung’s Comments on iOS 16’s Familiar Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple launched iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, introducing features like Live Translation for messages and Call Screening.
    2. Google responded with a humorous ad, highlighting that many of these features have been available on Pixel phones for years.
    3. The playful exchange between an iPhone and Pixel in the ad suggests that Apple often takes inspiration from Google’s innovations.
    4. Samsung also joined the teasing, contrasting its own features with those of iOS 26, further fueling the competition.
    5. Reactions on social media are mixed, with some enjoying the rivalry while others point out that both Apple and Android borrow from each other.


    Apple’s recent launch of iOS 26 at WWDC 2025 has sparked some light-hearted competition, with Google joining in on the fun. The tech giant has just rolled out a new advertisement as part of its #BestPhonesForever campaign, playfully teasing Apple for unveiling features that Pixel users have enjoyed for years.

    A Playful Exchange

    The brief video, shared on June 17, portrays a humorous chat between a Pixel 9 Pro and an iPhone. As the iPhone eagerly touts the new capabilities of iOS 26—such as Live Translation for messages, Hold Assist, and Call Screening—the Pixel responds with a relaxed chuckle, reminding it that these features have been available for quite a while. For instance, Live Translate was introduced with the Pixel 6 in 2021, Hold for Me debuted on the Pixel 5 in 2020, and Call Screen has been around since the Pixel 3, launched back in 2018.

    A Cheeky Suggestion

    The playful banter concludes with a clever hint: the iPhone inquires about what’s next for the Pixel 10, subtly implying that Apple might find inspiration once again for its future iPhone 17. Although the tone is light-hearted, the underlying message is evident—Google is keen to remind everyone that some of Apple’s recent features aren’t particularly new within the broader smartphone ecosystem. Samsung has also joined the fray, recently teasing iOS 26’s new Liquid Glass design and its limited AI features, contrasting them with its One UI 7 style and Galaxy AI.

    Mixed Reactions Online

    Responses on social media have been varied. Some users are enjoying the cheeky rivalry, observing how Apple’s updates often reflect features already present in Pixel or Galaxy devices. Others argue that inspiration flows both directions, with Android sometimes borrowing design elements from iOS as well.

    As the anticipation grows for the expected launch of the Pixel 10 series in August, rumors suggest it might come with a telephoto camera even on the basic model and enhanced wireless charging capabilities.

    In the end, this playful rivalry adds excitement to the tech world. It serves as a reminder that in technology, no single company holds exclusive rights to innovation.

  • iOS 26: New Apple Games App for All Your Gaming Needs Coming Soon

    iOS 26: New Apple Games App for All Your Gaming Needs Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is launching a new dedicated gaming app called Games for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users this fall.
    2. The Games app will combine Game Center and the gaming section of the App Store, enhancing user experience.
    3. The app is currently in developer beta, with a public beta set to start next month.
    4. Users will enjoy social features like friend lists and chat options without interrupting gameplay.
    5. Upcoming game titles for the app include Crimson Desert, InZOI, Cyberpunk 2077, Lies of P: Overture, and Hitman: World of Assassination.


    Apple is taking a significant step in the gaming world by introducing a new dedicated gaming app this fall for its iPhone, iPad, and Mac users. The app, named Games, is designed to combine the existing Game Center with the gaming section of the App Store.

    New Features Coming This Fall

    Currently, the app is in developer beta and is expected to officially launch this fall on systems running iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26. As per the Apple Newsroom, a public beta for the Games app will kick off next month. This app will enable users to access friend lists, chat options, and other social features without pausing their gameplay. Exciting titles like Crimson Desert and InZOI, which is similar to Sims, will be available on Mac later this year, in addition to other games such as Cyberpunk 2077, Lies of P: Overture, and Hitman: World of Assassination. Apple’s efforts to create a more inviting environment for gamers have been noticeable over the past few years, and Games may eventually rival Microsoft’s Xbox apps that are pre-installed with every Windows 10 and Windows 11 system.

    Join the Public Beta

    You can enroll in the public betas for Apple’s upcoming operating systems and get the chance to experience the new Games app firsthand by visiting beta.apple.com.

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  • New CarPlay Feature in iOS 26 Brings Video Playback Support

    New CarPlay Feature in iOS 26 Brings Video Playback Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Video playback on CarPlay screens will be allowed in iOS 26, but only when vehicles are parked.
    2. This is the first official allowance for video playback on CarPlay since its launch in 2014.
    3. Car manufacturers can choose whether to enable the new AirPlay video feature for specific models.
    4. iOS 26 will also include updates like new icon designs, appearance options, widget support, and improvements to Music and Messages.
    5. The availability of the AirPlay video option may vary by location, and car manufacturers need to integrate support before it becomes accessible.


    Apple is preparing to let apps show videos on connected CarPlay screens in iOS 26, but only when the vehicle is parked. This significant update to CarPlay comes after a prolonged period where Apple limited video playback. The new feature will be accessible through the “video in the car” menu, as mentioned on Apple’s developer site for CarPlay.

    First Time for Video Playback

    For the first time since CarPlay was introduced in 2014, video playback will be officially permitted. Each car manufacturer will have the choice to enable the AirPlay video feature on specific car models or not. Alongside this, Apple is making substantial changes to CarPlay in iOS 26, including new icon designs, appearance options, widget support, and enhancements to Music and Messages.

    Enhanced Entertainment Experience

    Cars with CarPlay provide drivers and passengers with entertainment options that can be better than what standard infotainment systems offer. However, some electric vehicle manufacturers have competing features; for instance, Tesla has a Theater app that allows users to watch videos from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and Twitch on the dashboard display when parked.

    Apple hasn’t released more specifics or images regarding the new AirPlay video option, and it won’t be available right away since car manufacturers need to integrate support for it first, according to Apple. Users of both regular CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra should eventually get access to it. It’s important to keep in mind that the availability of this feature may vary based on your location.

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  • iOS 26: Third-Party Apps like Spotify Access New Apple Music Features

    iOS 26: Third-Party Apps like Spotify Access New Apple Music Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26 introduces animated artwork on the lock screen when playing songs through Apple Music and third-party apps.
    2. The feature is currently in beta and still under development by Apple.
    3. The new API, MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork, enables the animated visuals.
    4. Animated artwork requires both a video asset and a preview image for display.
    5. iOS 26 includes other enhancements like a Liquid Glass UI, a revamped Dynamic Clock, and built-in generative AI features.


    The new update iOS 26 brings an exciting feature that adds animated artwork to the lock screen when a song is played through Apple Music. It is noteworthy that this functionality will also be available for third-party music streaming apps, not just exclusive to Apple Music.

    Development Status

    Currently, this feature is still being developed by Apple and is available in beta. There’s no guarantee that popular streaming services like Spotify, YouTube Music, Prime Music, Deezer, and Tidal will implement this feature, but the prospects seem quite promising.

    Technical Details

    The new API, called MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork, is responsible for showing these animated visuals. To make this work, two important elements are required: an animated video asset for the artwork and a preview image that represents the first frame. As the video loads, the preview image will serve as a temporary substitute.

    Other Features

    iOS 26 is packed with a variety of new features and enhancements in visual experience, including a fresh Liquid Glass UI, a revamped Dynamic Clock, and effects that create a three-dimensional feel. Additionally, it introduces built-in generative AI among other advancements.

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  • iPhones Boost Battery Life with iOS 26, Performance Takes Hit

    iPhones Boost Battery Life with iOS 26, Performance Takes Hit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has launched iOS 26 with a new “Liquid Glass” design and improved battery life features.
    2. The new “Adaptive Power” feature uses AI to manage resources but may reduce system performance to conserve battery.
    3. The iPhone 17 series is expected to maintain similar battery sizes as the iPhone 16, with the iPhone 17 Air having a notably smaller 2,800mAh battery.
    4. Compared to competitors like the Galaxy S25 Edge, which has a larger 3,900mAh battery, Apple’s battery sizes may still lag behind.
    5. The effectiveness of the AI-driven battery management will need real-world testing to determine its impact on device performance and battery life.


    Apple has just launched iOS 26, showcasing a new “Liquid Glass” design along with several new features. One notable feature is aimed at improving battery life by managing resources intelligently. However, this may have a downside: users might experience a decrease in performance as the system attempts to conserve power. Previously, there were rumors about Apple developing an AI-driven battery management tool, which seems to be the “Adaptive Power” feature now included.

    Meaningful Upgrade?

    Unlike some of the past controversial user interface changes, this could be a significant improvement for the iPhone 17 series—assuming it’s implemented correctly. The iPhone 16 comes equipped with a 3,561mAh battery, and the upcoming iPhone 17 is not widely thought to have a notably larger battery. In fact, the 5.5mm-thin iPhone 17 Air is said to have a battery as small as 2,800mAh.

    Battery Comparisons

    For comparison, the 5.8mm Galaxy S25 Edge, which features the latest, highly efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, boasts a bigger 3,900mAh battery. This “razor-thin” Android device, unlike other models in the S25 series, offers pretty average battery life at best. You can find more about the battery performance of the S25 Edge in their specs.

    Although Apple benefits from a tight integration of software and hardware, resulting in better power efficiency, the battery size in the Air model will probably still be behind the standard variant. This is where the new AI-driven Adaptive Power feature could be crucial for the iPhone 17 Air.

    Competing with Chinese Brands

    This feature might also assist other iPhone 17 models in keeping up their battery life advantage, especially since many Chinese smartphone companies are already offering batteries exceeding 6,000mAh, thanks to advancements in silicon-carbon battery technology—something Apple has yet to incorporate.

    However, the actual performance of this AI-based resource management will need to be assessed in everyday situations, and we are eager to see how it performs.

  • iOS 26 Liquid Glass UI Criticized for Poor Readability Issues

    iOS 26 Liquid Glass UI Criticized for Poor Readability Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. User Feedback on Readability: Many users, including a notable response on X, criticize the new Liquid Glass UI design for negatively impacting readability, suggesting it may not meet user needs.

    2. Apple’s Vision: Apple aims to create a visually appealing and dynamic UI with Liquid Glass that enhances user focus on content, as highlighted during the WWDC25 keynote.

    3. Achievements in Design: The updated iOS 26 UI showcases impressive animations and sleek design, but the visual effects are causing readability challenges, particularly in the Lock Screen.

    4. Proposed Solutions: Suggestions for improvement include using a more intense background blur, adding color tints to UI elements, and incorporating features like drop shadows to enhance visibility.

    5. Opportunity for Improvement: With iOS 26 still in Beta, Apple has time to address user feedback and make necessary adjustments to enhance the user experience before the full release.


    “Steve Jobs would have fired everyone” was the response of a user on X after witnessing Apple’s innovative “Liquid Glass” software design in use. This post has racked up over 18.5 million views on X, pointing out that the iOS Control Center with the new user interface (UI) design reveals how the transparent quality and gentle blur can negatively impact readability.

    Apple’s Vision for Liquid Glass

    During the WWDC25 keynote, Apple highlighted that the UI components made from Liquid Glass are designed to be “more expressive and delightful,” and they “dynamically transform to help enhance focus on content.” It’s evident that Apple’s goal with this new UI, which spans its ecosystem from macOS 26 to TVOS 26, is to create a modern, visually appealing UI redesign that doesn’t sacrifice functionality.

    Achievements and Challenges

    Overall, Apple has made significant strides. For example, the updated iOS 26 UI is impressively sleek, featuring some of the industry’s finest animation techniques. The individual UI elements seem to come alive with a gentle bounce and responsive interactions. Yet, the visual aspects of the Liquid Glass design appear to be the source of most issues.

    Consider the iOS Lock Screen, where our own Vaidyanathan S. demonstrates on X that the iOS 26 Lock Screen looks much clearer and simpler to read when transparency is disabled.

    Readability Issues

    Readability takes a hit when the UI is set to the new “Clear Light” mode. Thanks to the translucent effects of Liquid Glass, iOS 26 is more visually appealing when displayed in “Clear Dark” mode.

    One straightforward solution would be for Apple to apply a more intense background blur, allowing the foreground UI elements to pop. Right now, the background blur is somewhat too soft, making information-dense elements like the Control Center harder to read.

    Another potential solution could be to add a color tint to the Liquid Glass material, which would help clear UI elements stand out against a bright background.

    Additionally, @XorDev, a graphics programmer, proposes enhancements like Drop Shadows, Tone Mapping, and more as possible improvements.

    Looking Ahead

    Fortunately, iOS 26 remains in Beta and won’t be fully released for several more months. This gives Apple ample time to consider this feedback and make necessary adjustments.

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  • iOS 26 Boosts iPhone Battery Life but Reduces Performance

    iOS 26 Boosts iPhone Battery Life but Reduces Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26 will be available in the fall for iPhone models from 11 to 16, featuring design changes and new AI capabilities.
    2. The new “Adaptive Power” feature slows down the processor and dims the screen to extend battery life, in addition to the existing Low Power Mode.
    3. A warning in settings indicates that certain tasks may take longer when Adaptive Power is active.
    4. iOS 26 will automatically switch to Low Power Mode when the battery level drops to 20%.
    5. The update may support future iPhone models like the rumored iPhone 17 Air, which could benefit from energy-saving features.


    Apple revealed iOS 26 on Monday, marking the next significant upgrade for the iPhone. This new operating system will be available in the fall for all models ranging from the iPhone 11 to the iPhone 16. The update brings a variety of design changes, innovative AI features, an overhauled camera app, and the introduction of a new gaming app. One noteworthy addition is the “Adaptive Power” feature, which users can turn on alongside the existing “Low Power Mode” found in the system settings.

    Understanding Adaptive Power

    While Low Power Mode mainly limits background tasks, like fetching new emails, Adaptive Power takes a different approach. It slows down the iPhone’s processor and dims the screen brightness. By focusing on these two energy-hungry elements, this feature aims to prolong battery life. It’s important to note that a message in the system settings warns users that certain tasks might take longer when Adaptive Power is in use. Additionally, when the battery level falls to 20%, iOS 26 will automatically switch to Low Power Mode.

    Future Prospects

    This feature seems particularly designed for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, which is rumored to have a 6.6-inch display while housing a small 3,000 mAh battery. Therefore, users might rely heavily on features like Adaptive Power to make it through the day without needing to recharge. Speculations have also emerged that iOS 26 might utilize AI to monitor user habits and intelligently lower power usage. However, there’s no evidence of this feature in the initial beta version of iOS 26, at least not yet.

    Apple | The Verge | MacRumors

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  • Apple’s Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This Year

    Apple’s Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple introduced iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and watchOS 26 featuring a new “Liquid Glass” design with enhanced transparency and light effects.
    2. Public beta testing for all new operating systems will start in July, with final versions available in the fall.
    3. iOS 26 is not compatible with all iPhones currently running iOS 18; specific compatible models were listed.
    4. iPadOS 26 introduces desktop-like multitasking and an improved file manager, available on select iPad models.
    5. watchOS 26 features a redesigned interface and AI capabilities like “Workout Buddy,” but these features require pairing with iPhone 15 Pro (Max) or iPhone 16 series devices.


    During the keynote event at WWDC yesterday, Apple unveiled iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and watchOS 26, among others. These new operating systems showcase Apple’s “Liquid Glass” design, which incorporates a variety of transparency effects and light reflections. This design approach makes widgets, app icons, menu bars, and pop-up windows appear much more contemporary than in previous versions.

    Public Beta and Release Timeline

    All the new operating systems will begin public beta testing in July, with the final versions expected to be available as a free update in the fall. iOS 26 boasts a plethora of new features but is not supported on all iPhones that are currently running iOS 18. The compatible iPhone models for iOS 26 include:

    The iPad is finally receiving desktop-like multitasking capabilities, along with an enhanced file manager, a sharper mouse cursor instead of a rounded one, and Apple’s fresh aesthetic. The new iPadOS runs on the following iPad models:

    Updates in macOS and Gaming Features

    A significant portion of macOS 26 centers around Apple’s comprehensive design overhaul. Surprisingly, this update also highlights numerous new gaming functionalities. However, support for older Intel-based Macs is somewhat restricted, as the system is compatible with the following Mac models:

    The Apple Watch is set to receive not only a revamped design through watchOS 26 but also innovative AI capabilities. One such feature is “Workout Buddy,” which aims to encourage users during their exercise routines. However, these AI features are only accessible when the Apple Watch is paired with an iPhone 15 Pro (Max) or an iPhone 16 series device. The watchOS 26 operates on the following smartwatch models:

    Apple.

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