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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Tim Cook meets EU chief Ursula von der Leyen as bloc pushes new child safety rules

Tim Cook, Apple's executive chairman, met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to discuss the EU Kids Act, a proposed legislation that restricts social media access for minors and requires stronger protections for young users. The meeting took place in Manhattan during the United Nations General Assembly. Cook has been meeting with world leaders since taking on the role of executive chairman.

Why it matters: The meeting highlights Apple's commitment to child safety and online protection, as well as the company's engagement with policymakers on global regulations.

Apple retires the Apple Park Visitor Center’s unique AR experience

Apple has removed the augmented reality experience from the Apple Park Visitor Center, replacing it with a traditional Apple Store layout. The AR experience allowed visitors to explore Apple Park using custom iPads. The rest of the center, including the cafe, remains unchanged.

Why it matters: The change may indicate a shift in Apple's approach to showcasing its products and spaces.

Apple TV: ‘The Sisters Grimm’ gets season 2 trailer ahead of October premiere

Apple TV released a trailer for the second season of 'The Sisters Grimm', an animated series based on the NYT best-selling book series. The show follows two sisters as they navigate a town of fairy tale characters and investigate their missing parents. The second season is set to premiere on Apple TV on October 2.

Why it matters: The trailer provides a glimpse into the upcoming season of the popular animated series.

Apple Park Visitor Center Just Lost an Attraction Offered Since 2017

The Apple Park Visitor Center in Cupertino, California has undergone renovations, removing the 3D augmented reality model of the Apple Park campus from the Exhibition Space. The space now features wall-mounted shelves and new tables for product displays. The remodeling process began in July and was completed recently.

Why it matters: The changes may impact visitors who were interested in seeing a 3D model of the Apple Park campus.

Shazam App for iPhone Updated With New Icon and iMessage Stickers

Apple has updated the Shazam app for iOS with a new icon and iMessage stickers. The stickers can be sent in Messages, FaceTime, and other apps with an emoji keyboard. The update is available for iPhone users.

Why it matters: This update adds a new way for iPhone users to express themselves in messaging and video calls.

Apple Photos in iOS 27 gets camera roll feature it’s long needed

iOS 27 introduces a 'Captured by Me' feature in the Photos app, which collects photos and videos taken with the iPhone's Camera app, and adds a filter to the main Photos library.

Why it matters: This feature allows users to easily access and view their own captured media without clutter from other types of content.

Anthropic Launches Claude Opus 5.5 With Fable-Level Performance at a Lower Price

Anthropic launched Claude Opus 5.5, a new AI model that performs at the level of Claude Fable 5.1 but costs 40% less to run. Opus 5.5 has improved performance and safety compared to Opus 5, and generates output 30% faster. The model is available on all platforms as of today.

Why it matters: This update may be beneficial for users who need a high-performance AI model at a lower cost.

These were the best Apple accessories I found at IFA Berlin 2026

The author attended IFA Berlin 2026 and showcased several Apple-related accessories, including the Lexar Muse SSD, the Belkin Toy Story accessories, and the Wokyis i5 Docking Station. The Lexar Muse SSD is a thin SSD with a pogo pin connection that attaches to the rear of an iPhone with a Magsafe accessory. The Belkin Toy Story accessories include a LilyPad case, an iPhone case, a MagSafe power bank, and a larger power bank. The Wokyis i5 Docking Station is a standalone dock with pro-level ports and a display. All of these products are available for purchase, with prices ranging from $35 to $179.

Why it matters: These products showcase innovative designs and features that may appeal to Apple users looking for unique and functional accessories.

Apple has reportedly ‘postponed’ AI pendant product

Apple has reportedly put its AI pendant project on hold, focusing on infusing AI into the Apple Watch and other products. The pendant was designed to be a wearable camera and microphone for Siri AI. The project's status is unclear, but it is no longer a priority for the company.

Why it matters: This news may be of interest to those following Apple's AI and wearable technology developments.

Apple's pendant project is on hold despite its AI push

Apple's rumored AI pendant project has been postponed, with the reason for the delay not specified. The project was intended to allow users to ask Siri questions about their surroundings using a camera on the pendant. The delay is likely due to the Apple Watch taking on similar AI functionality.

Why it matters: This delay may impact the development of AI-powered wearables, but Apple's other products, such as the Apple Watch and AirPods, are still on track to bring AI capabilities to users.

Amicus briefs show strong support of Apple's arguments ahead of Epic Supreme Court judgement

The US Solicitor General and several other organizations have filed amicus briefs in support of Apple's arguments in the Epic v. Apple lawsuit, echoing concerns about the 'spirit of the injunction' and fair notice. The briefs argue that Apple's actions were not in clear violation of the injunction. The Supreme Court is set to weigh in on the matter in October. Apple was found in contempt for violating the injunction, but the company argues that the lower courts erred in their decision.

Why it matters: The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the tech industry and the interpretation of court orders.

M5 Pro Mac mini vs. M4 Pro Mac mini compared: Specs, hardware, price

The M5 Pro Mac mini has been released with the M5 Pro chip, offering a 30% faster CPU performance and up to 20% faster graphics performance compared to the M4 Pro Mac mini. The new chip features Neural Accelerators in each GPU core and supports third-generation hardware-accelerated ray tracing. The M5 Pro Mac mini maintains the same design and price as the M4 Pro Mac mini. The M5 Pro chip is suitable for AI-focused projects and delivers better performance in AI-related workflows and machine learning tasks.

Why it matters: This upgrade is significant for users who require improved performance for AI-related tasks and workflows.

Apple Maps & Apple Podcasts join forces for Hidden Histories guides & episodes

Apple Podcasts has launched Hidden Histories guides in Apple Maps, connecting podcast episodes to landmarks and lesser-known locations in five major US cities. The guides are available in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. Listeners can browse the full collection or find individual city guides by searching for 'Apple Podcasts' in Maps.

Why it matters: This integration allows listeners to discover new podcast episodes related to specific locations, enhancing their experience with Apple Maps and Apple Podcasts.

Apple Releases Firmware Update for Beats 360

Apple has released a firmware update for the Beats 360 over-ear headphones, with a version number of 4A262. The update is available for customers who have ordered the headphones, which will receive the new software when they arrive. The article does not specify what changes are included in the update.

Why it matters: This update ensures that customers who have ordered the Beats 360 headphones will have the latest software available when they receive their product.

OpenAI upgrading ChatGPT and Codex with two more GPT-6 models

OpenAI has released two new GPT-6 models, Sol and Luna, which are more efficient and cost-effective than their predecessors. The new models will be available in the ChatGPT desktop app and Codex, with Sol suited for complex coding and Luna for high-volume tasks. The models are rolling out to various user tiers, with free and Go users gaining access to Luna in the desktop app.

Why it matters: The new models offer more affordable and efficient AI capabilities, making advanced AI practical for everyday tasks and applications at scale.

Beats 360 Pre-Orders Open at Amazon With Cushion Kits on Sale, Plus More Beats Deals

Beats 360 headphones are available for pre-order on Amazon, with a bundle option featuring interchangeable ear cushions and headbands. The Cushion Kits for the Beats 360 are on sale for $9.99, down from $49.99. Amazon is also offering deals on other Beats accessories.

Why it matters: This news is relevant for readers who are interested in purchasing the new Beats 360 headphones or Beats accessories.

iPhone 18 Pro’s best Dynamic Island feature is one Apple barely mentioned

The iPhone 18 Pro's Dynamic Island feature has been improved with a smaller size and increased screen real estate, allowing for more Live Activity information to be displayed. This includes the ability to show additional information for the second Live Activity, such as remaining time for a timer. The change is a result of moving Face ID components under the display.

Why it matters: This upgrade can make the Dynamic Island more useful for users who run multiple Live Activities simultaneously.

Apple Puts AirTag-Sized AI Pin on Hold

Apple has paused development on a camera-equipped AI wearable, a pin or pendant that could be attached to clothing or worn around the neck. The device, similar in size to an AirTag, was described as a thin, circular disc made from aluminum and glass. The AI pin was expected to have Visual Intelligence features and answer questions about the wearer's surroundings.

Why it matters: This development pause may impact Apple's plans to introduce the AI wearable as soon as 2027, as previously rumored.

Beats 360 Ear Cushion Kits Just $9.99 Each Until the End of October

Apple is offering discounted ear cushion kits for its Beats 360 over-ear headphones. The kits include Performance Knit and UltraPlush ear cushions with matching headbands in various colors. The discounted pricing is available until October 31.

Why it matters: This offer allows customers to purchase extra ear cushions at a lower price, potentially extending the lifespan of their headphones.

Future Apple Watch could be screen-less Whoop competitor, says rumor

Apple is reportedly developing a new fitness and health tracker that resembles Whoop's device, with a focus on simplicity and no screen. The device is still in the prototype stage and has not been committed to production. The project is said to be in a research phase, with no expected release date before 2028.

Why it matters: This development could impact the wearable technology market, particularly in the fitness and health tracking space.

Apple Testing Prototypes of Whoop-Like Screenless Fitness Band

Apple is testing prototypes of a screenless fitness band similar to Whoop's line of bands, which track activity and health metrics without a display. The device is said to be in the early stages of development, with no decision yet on whether it will move forward. Prototypes have a fabric band attached to a computing module that tracks heart rate and other metrics.

Why it matters: This development could provide an alternative to traditional wearables with screens, potentially appealing to users who prefer a more minimalist approach to tracking their health and fitness.

Apple working on Whoop-style screenless fitness tracker, per report

Apple is reportedly developing a screenless fitness tracker, similar to Whoop, with a thin fabric band and sensor-equipped computing module. The project is still in the technology investigation phase and may not be released before 2028. The product is being developed by Apple's health team, led by Eddy Cue.

Why it matters: This development could provide an alternative to the Apple Watch for users who want a simpler, more focused fitness tracking experience.

Anthropic upgrades Claude with new Opus 5.5 model, details here

Anthropic has released Claude Opus 5.5, an upgraded version of its AI model, with improved performance and efficiency compared to the previous Opus 5 model. The new model is 30% faster and 40% cheaper per task than Opus 5. It has been tested by external evaluators and achieves the strongest score to date on alignment tests.

Why it matters: The upgrade provides users with a more efficient and cost-effective AI model for tasks such as coding and software development.

Apple government liaison Tim Cook talked child safety at the UN General Assembly

Apple Executive Chairman Tim Cook met with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the UN General Assembly to discuss child safety, specifically the EU Kids Act. The discussion focused on the importance of privacy, safety, and security of children. The meeting was mentioned in a social media post by von der Leyen.

Why it matters: The discussion highlights the growing concern for child safety in the EU and the need for tech companies to prioritize protections for young users.

Apple Will Soon Announce an All-New Operating System

Apple is developing a new operating system, reportedly a mix of tvOS, watchOS, and iOS, for a smart home hub with a 6-inch or 7-inch display. The hub will feature a grid of app icons, widgets, and customizable clock faces. The operating system will include facial recognition and multi-user support.

Why it matters: This new operating system and smart home hub could potentially integrate various Apple services and devices in a single platform.

Apple Watch Series 10 vs. Series 12 Buyer's Guide: Should You Upgrade?

The Apple Watch Series 12 is a significant upgrade over the Series 10, with new features like a faster chip, more RAM, and improved health sensors. The Series 12 also offers 5G connectivity, tougher cover glass, and new case materials. The Series 10 has been discontinued, but remaining units may still be available from third-party retailers and on the refurbished market. The Series 12 starts at the same price as the Series 10 did in 2024, $399. The Series 12's health features and improved performance make it a worthwhile upgrade for those who prioritize fitness tracking. The Series 10 remains a capable and modern Apple Watch, but its battery life and health features are not as advanced as the Series 12's.

Why it matters: For those who prioritize health and fitness tracking, the Apple Watch Series 12 offers significant improvements over the Series 10.

When your Mac just won’t let go of the Wi-Fi connection

A Mac user discovered that macOS prioritizes Wi-Fi connections over Ethernet connections, causing slow file transfers. Disabling auto-join for local Wi-Fi networks can resolve the issue. A workaround is to manually disconnect from Wi-Fi when using Ethernet connections.

Why it matters: This issue affects Mac users who rely on Ethernet connections for file transfers and videoconferencing, and may experience slow speeds or dropped connections.

Apple's Smart Glasses to Enter a Rapidly Growing Market

Apple's smart glasses are expected to enter a rapidly growing market, with worldwide AI glasses shipments increasing 263% year-over-year. The market is currently dominated by Meta, which accounted for 94% of total AI glasses shipments. Apple's initial smart glasses will focus on audio, cameras, Siri, and connectivity with the iPhone and Apple's ecosystem.

Why it matters: This development is significant for Apple users who may be interested in a smart glasses option that integrates with their existing Apple devices.

Apple Event This October? These 7 New Products Expected Next Month

Apple is expected to release several new products in October, including a new iPad mini, Apple TV, HomePod mini, and iMac. The company may hold an event to announce some of these products, while others might be introduced through press releases. The exact timing and details of the releases are not yet confirmed.

Why it matters: This news is relevant to Apple fans and tech enthusiasts who are interested in staying up-to-date on the latest product releases.