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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Two years later, Apple Intelligence makes its way to China

Apple Intelligence will be available in China in open beta from November 4, offering features such as photo editing, natural language search, and smart emoji generation. The initial features will be available on iOS 27.3, which is set to launch in December. Apple had to seek out local partners to comply with Chinese regulations.

Why it matters: This update will provide Chinese iPhone users with access to AI-based features that were previously unavailable in the country.

'Pluribus' Season 2 Reportedly Starts Production Today

Filming for the second season of Apple TV's 'Pluribus' is reportedly starting today in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The show is a sci-fi drama starring Rhea Seehorn and created by Vince Gilligan. The first season premiered on November 7, 2025, and a second season was already commissioned.

Why it matters: This development provides an update on the production status of the show, which has a dedicated fan base.

iPhone 18 Pro Sales Surge in China, Offsetting Decline in U.S. and Japan

iPhone 18 Pro sales increased by 29% in China, offsetting declines in the US and Japan. Global sales of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max rose 3.1% compared to the same period last year. The US and Japan saw declines of 4% and 27%, respectively.

Why it matters: The strong sales in China are a positive sign for Apple's iPhone 18 Pro, but the declines in other regions may indicate a mixed market reception.

Download all 20 Apple HomeView wallpapers in light and dark mode here

Apple released the HomeView 27.2 system update, which includes 20 default wallpapers in light and dark mode, available for download. The update is for the upcoming smart home hub, which is available for preorder ahead of its November 13 launch. The update also includes a look at the device's face customization interface and a hidden graphic from a previous software version.

Why it matters: Readers can download the wallpapers for their own devices, and the update provides an early look at the HomeView's features.

WhatsApp announces four new features to make group chats easier to manage

WhatsApp is rolling out four new features to improve group chat management: a 'Mentions and replies' button, indefinite pinning of messages, the ability to send recent messages retroactively, and group status sharing. The features are designed to make it easier to track conversations and share updates within groups. The new features may take some time to become available to all users.

Why it matters: These features aim to enhance the overall group chat experience, making it easier for users to manage and participate in conversations.

9to5Mac Daily: October 30, 2026 – New HomePod features, more

The 9to5Mac Daily podcast is available on various platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and Google Play, and new episodes are recorded every weekday. The podcast is sponsored by Backblaze and listeners can subscribe to 9to5Mac Daily Plus for exclusive content. The podcast's email address is happyhour@9to5mac.com and listeners can rate and recommend it in Apple Podcasts and Overcast.

Why it matters: This podcast provides a daily summary of top Apple news stories for listeners.

HomeView Software 27.2: Wallpapers, Control Center, and More

Apple released HomeView Software 27.2, which includes features like wallpapers, Control Center, and face editing interface. The software is for the upcoming HomeView device, set to launch on November 13. The software includes 20 default wallpapers and allows users to set their own photo wallpaper.

Why it matters: This release provides insight into the features and functionality of the HomeView device before its launch.

Apple confirms iOS 27.3 beta is coming next week with Apple Intelligence in China

Apple confirmed that the next iOS developer beta, iOS 27.3, will arrive next week, with Apple Intelligence in China to be tested starting November 4. Apple Intelligence will initially be available on iPhone models from iPhone 15 Pro and later, with features including improved Siri experience, Qwen integration, and Live Translation. The features will become publicly available in December with the official release of iOS 27.3.

Why it matters: This update is significant for Chinese users who will gain access to improved Siri features and Qwen integration, but not Siri AI, as part of the Apple Intelligence rollout.

Apple Alerts Stores to iPhone Duo's Display Cracking Issue

Apple has issued an internal memo to its stores and authorized service providers to address the iPhone Duo's display cracking issue, which affects a small number of units. The issue causes the inner display to crack, resulting in lines appearing on the screen. Apple advises customers to contact AppleCare for a replacement if they experience the issue.

Why it matters: This issue may affect iPhone Duo owners who have recently purchased the device and are experiencing display problems.

★ MacBook Pro Pricing and Configurations for M6, M5 Pro, and M5 Max

Apple has released pricing and configuration details for the M6, M5 Pro, and M5 Max MacBook Pros. The new PROLED XDR models cost $400 more than their mini-LED counterparts. The 16-inch MacBook Pro starts with the 18-core CPU / 20-core GPU M5 Pro chip, with no 16-inch models available for the plain M6 or chip-binned fewer-core M5 Pro configurations.

Why it matters: This information is useful for readers who are considering purchasing a new MacBook Pro and want to compare prices and configurations.

iOS 27.3 Will Enable These Apple Intelligence Features in China

iOS 27.3 will enable several Apple Intelligence features in China, including Writing Tools and Live Translation with AirPods, but will not include Siri AI and Image Playground. The features will be limited to iPhone 15 Pro and newer devices. The first iOS 27.3 beta will be available next week.

Why it matters: This update will provide users in China with access to new features on their iPhones.

Apple Says iOS 27.3 Beta Coming Next Week With Apple Intelligence on iPhone in China

Apple announced that the first iOS 27.3 developer beta will be released next week, enabling some Apple Intelligence features in China. The beta will be released on November 3, and the public version will be available in December. The features include Writing Tools, Genmoji, Clean Up, and others.

Why it matters: This update will provide iPhone users in China with access to new features that can enhance their user experience.

‘Pluribus’ season 2 reportedly begins filming tomorrow

The second season of Apple TV's 'Pluribus' is reportedly set to begin filming on October 31 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The show's creator, Vince Gilligan, had previously announced that the writers had mapped out the entire second season and completed the first two scripts. The release date for the second season has not been announced.

Why it matters: This news is significant for fans of the show, who will be eager to see the continuation of the story.

Apple's Flash Storage Suppliers Are Finally 'Getting Their Revenge'

Apple's suppliers, including Kioxia and Sandisk, have been able to negotiate better prices and terms due to a memory chip shortage caused by AI companies' increased demand for flash storage. The shortage has led to Apple raising prices on over a dozen products. Apple's former head of procurement, Tony Blevins, used hardball tactics to negotiate with suppliers in the past.

Why it matters: The shift in power dynamics between Apple and its suppliers may lead to higher prices for consumers in the short term, but could also result in more favorable terms for suppliers in the long term.

‘Knives Out’ director launches iPhone camera app that shoots like his movies

Director Rian Johnson launched an iPhone camera app called Chromagraph Camera, which uses image processing techniques from his film 'Knives Out'. The app is available for $12.99 and supports the iPhone Duo. It allows users to shoot photos and see the final look after processing, with intuitive tools for color, tone, and texture.

Why it matters: The app offers a unique approach to image processing and editing for iPhone users.

iPhone demand sees Apple topple Nvidia as most valuable company, again

Apple's stock rose due to multiple iPhone and hardware releases, allowing it to surpass Nvidia as the most valuable company in the world. Apple's valuation is now $5.03 trillion, while Nvidia's is $4.93 trillion. The company's stock closed at $344.63 per share on October 30.

Why it matters: This shift in valuation highlights the ongoing competition between Apple and Nvidia in the tech industry.

14 New Things Your iPhone Can Do in iOS 27.2

Apple released iOS 27.2, which includes enhancements to Siri AI, adding Suggestions in Messages, and various smaller additions across multiple apps. Siri AI can now recall past conversations and draw from more sources. The update is available to download now.

Why it matters: This update brings improved functionality to Siri and other features, which may enhance user experience for iPhone users.

iOS 27.2 adds two FaceTime features, including a personal favorite

iOS 27.2 adds Dual Capture to all FaceTime calls, including group calls, and introduces third-party sign language interpreters and live captioning. The new features are available to users with iOS 27, iPadOS 27, or macOS 27. The Edge Light feature is also introduced for iPhone Duo users. Dual Capture allows users to show both front and rear camera views simultaneously on video calls. Third-party sign language interpreters and live captioning are also available on FaceTime calls. The Edge Light feature adds a ring of light around the iPhone Duo display to better illuminate the user's face on calls.

Why it matters: These features enhance the FaceTime experience, making it more accessible and convenient for users, especially those with disabilities.

iPhone Duo Review: One Week Later

A reviewer has used the iPhone Duo for a week and shares their experience with the device's features and potential issues. The reviewer finds the outer display useful for notifications and multitasking, but notes that the cameras are just average. The device's battery life is comparable to other iPhone models. Some users have reported a display defect, but it appears to be a rare issue.

Why it matters: This review provides insight into the iPhone Duo's performance and potential drawbacks, helping readers make informed decisions about purchasing the device.

Security Bite: This iOS 27.2 camera bug still isn’t enough to make me buy a camera cover

Apple released iOS 27.2, which patches over 160 vulnerabilities, including a bug that allowed malicious apps to access the camera without permission. The bug, tracked as CVE-2026-86990, was fixed in the CoreMedia framework. The update also includes patches for other vulnerabilities in iOS and macOS.

Why it matters: Users should update to the latest iOS and macOS versions to ensure their devices are secure and protected from potential camera access vulnerabilities.

I rely on this Apple Maps feature tons of people don't know exists

A user shares their experience with the Apple Maps 'Share ETA' feature, which allows users to share their estimated time of arrival and location with others, and finds it to be a useful tool for keeping family members informed of their whereabouts. The feature is available on Apple Maps and has been available on Google Maps for some time. The user credits the feature with helping them to stay organized and reduce anxiety when traveling with family members.

Why it matters: This feature can be a useful tool for people who frequently travel with others and want to keep them informed of their estimated arrival time and location.

HomeKit Weekly: SwitchBot’s K11+ Pro packs strong suction and Apple Home support into a tiny robo vacuum

The SwitchBot K11+ Pro is a compact robot vacuum that supports Apple Home and has strong suction power, allowing it to navigate through tight spaces and corners. It has a small dock for self-emptying and can store up to five maps for navigation. The vacuum has multiple cleaning modes and supports Matter over Wi-Fi for seamless integration with Apple Home.

Why it matters: This compact robot vacuum is suitable for smaller homes and apartments, providing a convenient and efficient cleaning solution.

The Only Good Easter Eggs Are Whole-Assed Easter Eggs

Apple Music's 404 page features a functioning iPod recreation that can be interacted with on mobile devices, allowing users to experience what it's like to use an iPod.

Why it matters: This Easter egg provides a nostalgic experience for those who used iPods and allows new users to understand the device's interface.

Apple TV has three shows with finales next week, here’s what’s ending

Apple TV has three shows ending next week: Small Prophets, Stick, and an unnamed show. Small Prophets has a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score and was already renewed for season 2 by the BBC. The fate of the other two shows is unknown.

Why it matters: This is a rare instance of Apple TV cycling out multiple shows in a single week, which may indicate changes in the platform's content strategy.

Apple Music 7.0 for Android rolls out with Liquid Glass redesign

Apple Music 7.0 for Android has rolled out with a Liquid Glass redesign, featuring a new icon, updated navigation, and modernized design elements. The update includes a floating bottom bar, translucent elements, and a revamped Library tab. The redesign aligns with the iOS version 27.

Why it matters: This update brings a more consistent and modern design to the Apple Music app on Android, improving the user experience.

Samsung Mocks iPhone Duo Display Cracks in New Ad Campaign

Samsung launched an ad campaign on Instagram mocking display issues with the iPhone Duo, showing a bright line through the display where cracks have been reported. The campaign is part of a growing rivalry between Samsung and Apple in the foldable phone market. The ad campaign includes three images with different text, highlighting the issue with the iPhone Duo's display.

Why it matters: The ad campaign highlights the ongoing competition between Samsung and Apple in the foldable phone market, which may influence consumer purchasing decisions.

GM to Pay $220 Million After Betraying Their Own Drivers’ Privacy

General Motors will pay $220 million to settle allegations it illegally sold drivers' private behavior and location data to brokers. The data was collected through the Smart Driver program, which enrolled millions of drivers between 2016 and 2024. The settlement resolves claims by 35 US states and the District of Columbia.

Why it matters: This settlement highlights the importance of transparency and consent in the collection and use of personal data by companies.

App Report: Picture perfect

Three camera-focused apps for iPhone have been reviewed: SplitLens, PhotoSynthesis, and 36Frames. SplitLens allows simultaneous capture of multiple camera angles, while PhotoSynthesis produces detailed images with a wider surrounding area. 36Frames simulates a film camera experience with delayed photo development.

Why it matters: These apps can enhance the capabilities of iPhone cameras, offering new creative possibilities for users.

Patrick Stewart Dies at 86

Patrick Stewart, a British actor known for his Shakespearean roles, has died at 86. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. Stewart's death was announced by his spokesperson, Kelly Bush Novak.

Why it matters: The news of Patrick Stewart's passing is significant for fans of his iconic roles in Star Trek and X-Men.

The MacRumors Show: OLED MacBook Pro, iPad Mini 8, and More

Apple announced new MacBook Pro models with OLED displays, iPad mini with an OLED display, and updated iMac and MacBook Pro models with M6 chips. The new MacBook Pro models feature a 10,000,000:1 contrast ratio and up to 2,000 nits of peak HDR brightness. The iPad mini with OLED display has a 60Hz display and supports up to 1,200 nits of peak HDR brightness.

Why it matters: These updates bring improved display and performance capabilities to Apple's lineup of laptops and tablets.