Tech Brief

Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

9to5Mac

Gemini app for macOS adding send and read iMessage integration

Google's Gemini app for macOS has been updated to include integration with Apple's iMessage service, allowing users to read, search, and send messages. The integration is available in the latest version of the app, 1.116.5.889. However, a server-side component is currently missing, preventing the integration from working as intended.

Why it matters: This update enables users to access and manage their iMessage conversations directly within the Gemini app on their Mac.

MacRumors

iPhone 18 Pro Max Requires 'Prepare to Ship' Battery Drain Before Shipping

The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a battery capacity over 20 watt-hours, requiring a 'Prepare to Ship' feature to limit its battery capacity before shipping. This feature discharges the battery to below 20Wh and sets a charge limit to meet shipping requirements. The feature can be accessed through the Settings app and can be undone after shipping.

Why it matters: This feature is necessary for shipping the iPhone 18 Pro Max due to its battery capacity exceeding the 20Wh threshold.

9to5Mac

The Quantified Scientist tests the Apple Watch Series 12’s new heart rate sensor

The Quantified Scientist compared the Apple Watch Series 12's new heart rate sensor to a Polar H10 ECG chest strap during various activities. The Apple Watch Series 12 performed well, with nearly identical readings to the chest strap during indoor cycling. The watch's heart rate accuracy was also good during running and weightlifting, but with some minor deviations at higher heart rates.

Why it matters: This comparison provides insight into the accuracy of the Apple Watch Series 12's new heart rate sensor, which can be useful for users who rely on the feature for fitness tracking.

MacRumors

Hands-On With the Apple Watch Series 12

The Apple Watch Series 12 has been released with updated internal components and health sensors, but no major design changes. The device features a new Ceramic Shield 2 material on aluminum models and an S11 chip for improved performance. The Series 12 also includes a Health Sensing System for more accurate heart rate sensing and a readiness score.

Why it matters: The Apple Watch Series 12 offers improved health features and faster charging, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those with older models.

Daring Fireball

Just Me or Does This Argument Not Add Up?

Miriam Pawel wrote an op-ed in The New York Times arguing against reinstating the SAT requirement for University of California admissions, citing the institution's commitment to access and excellence. She claims that students on UC campuses are graduating at record rates despite struggling with basic math. Pawel suggests that increasing math skills is a more meaningful success metric than simply awarding degrees.

Why it matters: The debate highlights the trade-offs between access and academic rigor in university admissions.

Daring Fireball

Will Oremus Is a Duo Doubter

Apple announced a $2,000 foldable iPhone called the iPhone Duo, new Apple Watch models with advanced features, and updated AirPods with improved noise cancellation. The company also revealed new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models with longer battery life and advanced cameras. Apple did not announce the base iPhone 18 or other less expensive models. The company's new CEO, John Ternus, emphasized the iPhone's potential as an 'intelligent personal assistant'.

Why it matters: The announcement highlights Apple's focus on premium products and its shift towards a subscription-based business model.

9to5Mac

iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 expand language support for Dictionary, QuickType Keyboard, more

Apple has updated its iOS and iPadOS 27 Feature Availability page to reflect the addition of over 30 new languages and language variants for various features, including Dictionary, QuickType Keyboard, and Visual Look Up. The new languages and variants are supported across features such as language support, autocorrection, predictive typing, and Siri wake-word support. The full list of supported languages is available on Apple's website.

Why it matters: This update expands the accessibility and usability of Apple devices for users who speak non-English languages.

MacRumors

iPhone 18 Pro Max in U.S. Has Qualcomm's Snapdragon X80 Modem

A teardown of the iPhone 18 Pro Max in the U.S. has confirmed the presence of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X80 modem, which is used in the device's 5G connectivity. This is a unique configuration, as the smaller iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in other countries use Apple's custom-designed C2 modem. The U.S. version also features a newly-identified mmWave 5G antenna module from Apple.

Why it matters: This development may impact the performance and power efficiency of the iPhone 18 Pro Max in the U.S.

9to5Mac

Download the iPhone Duo’s official light and dark wallpapers here

Apple released Xcode 27.1 beta, which includes the iPhone Duo's wallpapers in its iPhone Simulator. The wallpapers depict dunes against a mountain range and are available in light and dark mode. The wallpapers were not included in iOS 27.0, but are now downloadable.

Why it matters: Users can now download the official iPhone Duo wallpapers for their devices.

Daring Fireball

Apple Releases Xcode 27.1, First SDK With Support for iPhone Duo

Apple has released Xcode 27.1, a software development kit (SDK) update that includes support for the iPhone Duo. The new SDK is available for download, along with release notes. Design kits for Figma and Sketch are also available for iPhone Duo development.

Why it matters: Developers can now create apps optimized for the iPhone Duo's unique screen sizes and features.

MacRumors

M5 Ultra and M6 Chip Benchmark Results Reveal Graphics Performance

Benchmark results for Apple's M5 Ultra and M6 chips have been released, showing improved graphics performance compared to previous models. The M5 Ultra achieved a 59% higher Metal score than the M3 Ultra, while the M6 chip scored 34% higher than the M5 chip. The M5 Ultra's OpenCL score is comparable to NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 4080. Real-world performance may vary.

Why it matters: These results provide insight into the graphics capabilities of Apple's upcoming Mac Studio and Mac mini models.

9to5Mac

AirPods Pro 3 keep getting better, here’s what’s new in iOS 27

iOS 27 adds new features to AirPods Pro 3, including Custom EQ, expanded GymKit support, and Siri AI integration. Custom EQ allows users to set their own sound profile, while GymKit now supports iPhone and AirPods Pro 3's heart rate sensor. Siri AI is also available on AirPods, enabling more features and functionality. Apple has redesigned and reorganized AirPods settings in iOS 27 for easier navigation. Precision Finding is now available on AirPods Pro 3 with iOS 27 and watchOS 27.

Why it matters: These updates enhance the AirPods Pro 3 experience, offering users more control over their audio and workout tracking.

Daring Fireball

Warren Buffett, at 96, Steps Down as Chairman at Berkshire Hathaway

Warren Buffett has stepped down as Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, with his son Howard taking over the role. Buffett will remain a Director and become Chairman Emeritus. The transition is effective immediately.

Why it matters: This change marks a significant shift in leadership at one of the world's most influential companies.

Daring Fireball

Trump Says He’s Banning MS NOW, CNN, and Politico From White House

US President Donald Trump has announced that he is banning CNN, MSNBC (referred to as MSNOW), and Politico from the White House, citing their reporting as 'fake news'. The ban is effective immediately. The reasons for the ban are not specified beyond the outlets' reporting being deemed 'fake news'.

Why it matters: This move may set a precedent for future restrictions on press access to the White House.

AppleInsider

Apple Watch Series 12 has slightly larger bezels, stuck out Digital Crown

The Apple Watch Series 12 has slightly larger bezels and a Digital Crown that protrudes more than the Apple Watch Series 11. The design change is likely due to the need for more internal space for the new Health Sensing system. The change is only noticeable when comparing the two models side-by-side.

Why it matters: This design change may be a consideration for customers deciding whether to upgrade to the Apple Watch Series 12.

AppleInsider

Developers finally get Xcode tools to prepare apps for iPhone Duo

Apple has released the first Xcode 27.1 beta, which includes tools for developers to prepare their apps for the iPhone Duo. The beta provides a Display group in Xcode's canvas to preview content on the foldable iPhone's alternative display. Developers have about a month to test their apps across the iPhone Duo's various layouts and screen sizes.

Why it matters: Developers need to update their apps to take advantage of the iPhone Duo's new features and screen configurations, which will be available to customers on October 23.

9to5Mac

HomeKit Weekly: Homey’s new Device Updates feature shows what Matter was supposed to be all along

Homey has introduced a Device Updates feature that allows users to update Matter, Z-Wave, and Zigbee devices directly from the Homey Mobile App or Web App. The feature handles updates, progress tracking, and notifications. The launch list of supported vendors includes IKEA, Aeotec, and others.

Why it matters: This feature simplifies the process of updating smart home devices, making it more practical for users and developers.

AppleInsider

A US NAND factory could reshape storage supply, but not yet for Apple

SK Hynix-owned Solidigm is considering building a NAND factory in the US, specifically in upstate New York, to reduce its dependence on China. The proposed factory would be separate from SK Hynix's discussions about producing memory chips at Intel's planned Ohio facility. No agreement has been reached and the location, investment, capacity, and construction schedule remain undecided.

Why it matters: This development could reduce Solidigm's reliance on Chinese manufacturing and limit its exposure to potential tariffs and restrictions on chipmaking equipment exports.

MacRumors

Apple Watch Series 12 vs. Ultra 4 Buyer's Guide

The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 have similar features, but the Series 12 is a better choice for everyday use due to its lower price and thinner design. The Ultra 4 offers longer battery life and additional features for specific activities like diving and exploration. The decision between the two models depends on individual needs and priorities.

Why it matters: This comparison helps readers decide which Apple Watch model is best suited for their lifestyle and budget.

9to5Mac

Apple VP of hardware talks iPhone Duo durability, crease, hinge, and more

Apple's Vice President of Hardware Engineering, Tom Marieb, discussed iPhone Duo's durability, hinge, and display crease in an interview with TechRadar. He highlighted the use of nano-texture to minimize the visible crease and a matte finish to reduce glare. Marieb also praised Ceramic Shield 2, saying it makes third-party screen protectors unnecessary.

Why it matters: The interview provides insight into Apple's design decisions and engineering efforts behind iPhone Duo's hardware features.

9to5Mac

Apple releases Xcode 27.1 beta, enabling iPhone Duo app development

Apple has released Xcode 27.1 beta 1 for developers, enabling app development for the upcoming foldable iPhone Duo. The release allows developers to prepare for the device's launch in October. The beta version is available for download from Apple's developer webpage.

Why it matters: Developers can now start preparing their apps for the iPhone Duo's larger display and foldable design.

MacRumors

MacRumors Giveaway: Win an iPhone Duo From iMazing

iMazing software offers a range of features for managing iPhone data, including backups, file transfers, and diagnostic tools. The software can be used on Mac and PC and supports older devices like the iPod. iMazing has been updated with a new user interface and improved data export features.

Why it matters: This giveaway offers readers a chance to win an iPhone and a copy of the iMazing software, which can be useful for managing iPhone data and backups.

9to5Mac

Meta’s new Muse AI agent app overtakes ChatGPT as top iPhone app

Meta's Muse AI agent app has taken the top spot on the US App Store, displacing ChatGPT. The app was launched this month and has seen a surge in new installs. The app is available on iPhone and has recently been made available on Mac.

Why it matters: This shift in popularity highlights the growing interest in AI-powered chatbots and their potential applications.

MacRumors

'Shop Different': Apple Retail Pioneer Ron Johnson Shares the Inside Story

Ron Johnson, former Apple retail pioneer, has written a book about his experience leading the development of Apple's retail stores, which opened in 2001. Johnson worked with Steve Jobs to create the first two stores and shares details about the challenges and successes of the early years. The book, 'Shop Different', covers Johnson's time at Apple and his later tenure as CEO of JCPenney.

Why it matters: The book provides insight into the early days of Apple retail and the vision behind the company's iconic stores.

AppleInsider

Apple's latest iPhone 18 Pro ad is a micro music video

Apple released a 35-second music video for K-Pop artist Rose, shot entirely on the iPhone 18 Pro. The video showcases the phone's new camera capabilities, particularly its variable aperture lens. The video is part of Apple's 'Shot on iPhone' ad campaign.

Why it matters: The video demonstrates the iPhone 18 Pro's camera capabilities and may appeal to potential buyers considering the device.

Daring Fireball

Hollywood Wants the Duo

Apple CEO John Ternus attended the Emmys and showed off the unreleased foldable iPhone Duo on the red carpet, sparking interest from Hollywood stars. He also attended a private party the night before, where he was approached by talent for the phone. Apple's streaming service, Apple TV, won a record-breaking 28 awards at the Emmys.

Why it matters: The success of Apple TV at the Emmys suggests that the company's streaming service is gaining traction in the industry.

Daring Fireball

Gauging Interest in the iPhone Duo

A four-year-old iPhone Xs Max review's footnote mentioned that MKBHD's top 20 videos had seven iPhone-specific videos with 84 million views. The top 20 has changed, with a one-week-old iPhone Duo video entering the top three. The iPhone Duo has seven videos in the top 20, with five of them from the last four years, totaling 118 million views, a 40% increase from four years ago.

Why it matters: The data suggests that the iPhone Duo is generating significant interest and attention on YouTube, which could translate to strong sales and market performance.

AppleInsider

iPhone Duo is Steve Jobs's intersection of technology and liberal arts, says Ternus

Apple's iPhone Duo was inspired by paper notebooks, with a focus on compactness and usability. The phone's design was influenced by the A-series paper system, with proportions similar to A5. The iPhone Duo's hinge is designed for smooth opening and holding open.

Why it matters: The iPhone Duo's design and functionality may set a new standard for foldable phones.