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Apple TV unveils trailer for sci-fi thriller ‘Dark Matter’ season two

Tue, 2026-07-28 05:30
The second season of “Dark Matter” premieres Friday, August 28 on Apple TV.

On Saturday, in San Diego Comic-Con’s Hall H, the stars and creative team behind Apple TV’s critically acclaimed sci-fi thriller “Dark Matter” unveiled the trailer for the upcoming second season. Based on the blockbuster novel by bestselling author Blake Crouch — who also created the series and serves as showrunner — “Dark Matter” stars and is executive produced by Golden Globe nominee Joel Edgerton and Academy Award winner Jennifer Connelly. The 10-episode second season premieres globally on Friday, August 28, 2026 on Apple TV with the first episode, followed by one new episode every Friday through October 30, 2026.

Hailed as one of the best sci-fi novels and celebrating the 10th anniversary of its release this year, “Dark Matter” is a story about the road not taken. In season one, the series followed Jason Dessen (Edgerton), a physicist, professor and family man who — one night while walking home on the streets of Chicago — is abducted into an alternate version of his life. Wonder quickly turns to nightmare when he tries to return to his reality amid the mind-bending landscape of lives he could have lived. Season two picks up with the Dessens as they settle into a quiet life in a world that finally seems safe, until the unimaginable forces them to run once again. As Jason’s obsession with the Box deepens, Daniela’s (Connelly) growing paranoia pushes her to the brink, and their son Charlie (Oakes Fegley) starves for a sense of stability as their family is threatened. Elsewhere, Amanda (Alice Braga) and Ryan (Jimmi Simpson) join forces in a desperate attempt to find their way home. With Blair (Amanda Brugel) determined to stop him, Leighton (Dayo Okeniyi) relentlessly chases his grand vision of creating a perfect world.

In addition to Edgerton and Connelly, the ensemble cast returning for season two includes Braga, Simpson, Okeniyi, Fegley and Brugel.

Alongside the season two premiere, the “Dark Matter” universe expands with the launch of “Dark Matter: The Official Podcast.” Hosted by “Dark Matter” author and showrunner Crouch and executive producer Jacquelyn Ben-Zekry, the podcast takes listeners deeper into the series with a robust roster of cast members, key creatives and industry experts. Together, they explore the show’s biggest moments, the science behind the multiverse, the creative process and how the series expands beyond Crouch’s original novel.

New podcast episodes will be released alongside each episode throughout the season, beginning with a special catch-up episode ahead of the season two premiere that recaps the key moments from season one and invites fans back into the many worlds of “Dark Matter.” Each episode will feature an extensive lineup of cast and creative guests, including Edgerton, Connelly, Braga, Simpson, Brugel, Okeniyi, Margo Martindale, Fegley, Chris Diamantopoulos, Matt Tolmach and some surprise guests, including content creators and authors who are superfans of the show.

“Dark Matter” is produced for Apple TV by Sony Pictures Television. Crouch serves as creator, executive producer, showrunner and writer alongside executive producers Tolmach, Richard Lederer and Ben-Zekry, who co-wrote every episode of season two with Crouch. In addition to starring, Edgerton and Connelly also serve as executive producers.

“Dark Matter: The Official Podcast,” produced by Sony Pictures Television, will be available to watch and listen on Apple Podcasts, the Sony Pictures Television YouTube channel and the Apple TV YouTube channel.

Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 850 wins and 3,800 award nominations and counting including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” global cultural phenomenon “Severance,” Apple’s most-viewed drama “Pluribus,” Academy Award Best Picture winner “CODA” and Academy Award winner “F1,” the highest-grossing sports feature of all time.

MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.


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Apple releases macOS Tahoe 26.6

Tue, 2026-07-28 04:28
macOS Tahoe 26.6

Apple today released macOS Tahoe 26.6, a minor point update to the current macOS operating system that launched in September 2025. The update arrives roughly a month after macOS Tahoe 26.5.2 and follows an extended period of developer and public beta testing.

macOS Tahoe (version 26) is the twenty-second major release of Apple’s desktop operating system and the successor to macOS Sequoia. It introduced a refreshed Liquid Glass design language, enhanced Continuity features (including a Phone app and Live Activities from iPhone), a significantly improved Spotlight search experience, and expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities. Tahoe is also notable as the final major macOS version to support certain Intel-based Macs, including the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro, 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro (four Thunderbolt 3 ports), 2020 iMac, and 2019 Mac Pro. Its successor, macOS Golden Gate (expected later in 2026), will require Apple silicon.

What’s in the 26.6 Update

According to Apple’s release notes, macOS Tahoe 26.6 primarily delivers security fixes for the Mac. It also optimizes the Spotlight index in preparation for the upcoming macOS 27 release. No major new user-facing features have been highlighted, consistent with the typical focus of mid-cycle point updates on stability, performance, and security as Apple shifts engineering resources toward the next major OS cycle.

Earlier betas in the 26.6 series addressed various resolved issues, including incorrect macOS deprecation notifications for certain apps (related to Intel-only identification when loading system plugins), HealthKit statistics query problems, and visual glitches with HDR screenshots in Messages. A deprecation notice also indicated that Encrypted HFS+ (CoreStorage) will not be supported in macOS 28, recommending a shift to encrypted APFS for external backups.

How to Get the Update

Compatible Mac owners can download and install macOS Tahoe 26.6 through the Software Update section in System Settings (System Settings > General > Software Update). As with any system update, Apple recommends backing up your Mac first — ideally with Time Machine — before proceeding.

The update is available for all Macs that support macOS Tahoe, which generally includes Apple silicon models from 2020 onward plus the specific Intel models noted above. Some features may vary by hardware, region, or language.

MacDailyNews Take: With the 26.x cycle winding down, attention is turning to macOS Golden Gate and the broader 27-series operating systems expected later this year. The Spotlight optimizations in 26.6 appear designed to smooth the transition for users who will upgrade when the next major release arrives.

macOS Tahoe 26.6 is a straightforward, recommended update focused on keeping Macs secure and prepared for what’s next. Users should install it when convenient to benefit from the latest security patches.


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Apple brings AppleCare One to the UK, streamlining coverage

Tue, 2026-07-28 04:00
Apple brings AppleCare One to the UK, giving customers a new way to cover multiple Apple products with one simple plan.

Apple on Monday announced AppleCare One — a new way for customers to protect multiple Apple devices under one simple plan — is available in the UK. Starting at £16.99 per month, AppleCare One covers up to three products, with the flexibility to add more at any time for £4.99 per month per device.

With AppleCare One, customers receive comprehensive, one-stop service and support from Apple experts across every product in their plan — delivering affordable peace of mind. Beginning August 4th, customers in the UK can sign up for AppleCare One at apple.com or their nearest Apple Store. Those who already have an AppleCare+ plan can also sign up directly on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

“At Apple, we’re focused on creating and delivering exceptional experiences,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, in a statement. “With AppleCare One, customers in the UK can now enjoy the trusted protection of AppleCare+ in a way that’s simpler and more flexible than ever before — one plan, one price, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing all their eligible products can be covered.”

One Plan, Incredible Value

AppleCare One includes all the benefits of AppleCare+, including fast and unlimited repairs for accidental damage, battery replacement service, and 24/7 priority access to Apple experts. All repairs are performed using genuine Apple parts at Apple Store locations and the vast network of Apple Authorised Service Providers.

Customers can enroll their eligible Apple products in the plan for the same great price, meaning a customer protecting their iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch together can save up to £11.48 per month compared to maintaining separate AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss plans for each device.

Protect Already-Owned Eligible Devices

AppleCare One gives customers greater flexibility to protect the devices they already have. Eligible products that are up to four years old can be added to a plan, provided they are in good condition, opening up coverage well beyond the current 60-day window to purchase AppleCare+.

Coverage That Evolves with Users

AppleCare One is built to keep pace with customers’ changing needs. When customers upgrade by trading in a covered product and purchasing a new product directly from Apple, the old product is automatically removed from the plan and replaced with the new device — so customers never have to think twice about staying protected. And as a monthly subscription, AppleCare One makes it simple to maintain coverage across as many products as customers want, for as long as they want, with the ability to add or remove devices from their plan at any time.

AppleCare+ Plans Add Theft and Loss Coverage for iPad and Apple Watch

Alongside the launch of AppleCare One, Apple is also bringing AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss to iPad and Apple Watch in the UK. The single-device plan option is now available for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, protecting customers against up to two incidents of theft or loss per year on top of battery replacement service, priority support from Apple experts, and unlimited repairs for accidental damage.

MacDailyNews Take: Learn more about AppleCare One and sign up by visiting apple.com/uk/applecare.


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Apple Original Films unveils trailer for ‘Matchbox The Movie,’ starring John Cena

Tue, 2026-07-28 03:00
John Cena stars in “Matchbox The Movie,” premiering October 9 on Apple TV.

This weekend in Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con, Apple Original Films unveiled the trailer for the upcoming action feature “Matchbox The Movie” starring John Cena, premiering globally on Apple TV on Friday, October 9th.

Inspired by the iconic Mattel toys, “Matchbox The Movie” is an action-packed, globe-trotting adventure about a group of friends since childhood who have their lives upended when undercover CIA agent Sean (Cena), their long-absent former leader, returns to their small town and unwittingly gets them embroiled in a frantic international pursuit to save the world.

An Apple Original Film hailing from Skydance Media and Mattel Studios, “Matchbox The Movie” is directed and executive produced by Sam Hargrave and written by David Coggeshall. David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Don Granger produce for Skydance, and Robbie Brenner and Ynon Kreiz produce for Mattel Studios. Jules Daly also serves as producer. Patrick Newall and Elizabeth Bassin serve as executive producers.

Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 850 wins and 3,800 award nominations and counting including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” global cultural phenomenon “Severance,” Apple’s most-viewed drama “Pluribus,” Academy Award Best Picture winner “CODA” and Academy Award winner “F1,” the highest-grossing sports feature of all time.

MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.


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Options prices currently imply an almost 4% move for Apple after July 30 earnings report

Tue, 2026-07-28 02:00

The U.S. stock market has been stuck in a two-month rut amid rising bond yields and disappointing earnings from Alphabet and Tesla, leaving bulls searching for a catalyst. Apple stands out as the only stock among the ten largest in the S&P 500 trading near an all-time high, CNBC reports.

After months of stagnation, Apple shares have climbed about 20% from their late-June low and recently traded less than two dollars below a fresh record set just over a week earlier. The company is scheduled to report earnings after the closing bell on Thursday.

Options activity reflects traders positioning for continued strength. Big-money participants have been buying in-the-money calls, while speculative interest has focused on a potential move to new highs by Friday, according to trades observed before the market close on Friday and elevated open interest built up over the summer.

Of the roughly $590 million in options premium that changed hands in Apple on Friday, about $442 million was linked to calls, per SpotGamma data. Traders purchased nearly 560,000 calls versus just 332,000 puts, according to ThinkOrSwim figures. Options prices currently imply an almost 4% move for Apple after earnings—an unusually large expected swing compared with the roughly 1% average historical move over the past year, based on Cboe LiveVol data.

“I think the probability is fairly high that Apple could help stabilize the market this week,” Nigam Arora, founder and author of The Arora Report newsletter, told CNBC. “Investors are viewing Apple as a defensive stock because, unlike several of its peers, it isn’t spending hundreds of billions on AI capex.”

The largest single trade Friday involved a new position of $2.6 million in 280-strike calls expiring in mid-August—a bullish, near stock-replacement trade given its high delta.

Among options expiring this Friday, the $320 strike holds the largest open interest, with about 13,000 calls and 5,000 puts outstanding, according to BarChart data. That positioning suggests confidence that last week’s lows will hold even if the reaction to earnings is muted.

By volume on Friday, the most actively traded contract was the 300-strike put (about 7,500 contracts for roughly $374,000 in premium). The second-most popular was the 340-strike call (5,000 contracts totaling about $2.3 million in premium), SpotGamma data show. That call closed at $4.25, meaning buyers would need Apple to rally roughly 3.4% this week to push beyond its all-time high of $335.

MacDailyNews Note: As usual, we’ll have Apple’s earnings results for you as soon as they are released on Thursday, Thursday, July 30th right around 4:30pm EDT / 1:30pm PDT. We’ll follow that with live notes from Apple’s conference call with analysts starting at 5:00pm EDT / 2:00pm PDT.


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Apple TV releases first teaser for cyberpunk series ‘Neuromancer’

Tue, 2026-07-28 01:00
Callum Turner makes a surprise virtual appearance during Apple TV’s San Diego Comic-Con panel to debut the first teaser for the highly anticipated science fiction series “Neuromancer,” premiering globally on Apple TV on January 22, 2027.

Saturday at Apple TV’s San Diego Comic-Con panel, Callum Turner made a surprise virtual appearance to unveil the first teaser for the highly anticipated new science fiction series “Neuromancer,” based on the award-winning novel of the same name by William Gibson. The 10-episode series stars Turner, Briana Middleton, Mark Strong, Joseph Lee, Peter Sarsgaard, and Clémence Poésy, and premieres globally on Apple TV on Friday, January 22, 2027, with two episodes, followed by one new episode every Friday through March 19, 2027.

“Neuromancer” follows a damaged, top-rung super-hacker named Case (Turner) who is thrust into a web of digital espionage and high-stakes crime with his partner Molly (Middleton), a razor-girl assassin, as they pull off a heist on a corporate dynasty with untold secrets. The ensemble cast also includes Max Irons, Dane DeHaan, Junia Rees, Jordan Kouamé, Emma Laird, Marc Menchaca, André De Shields and Isabella Pappas.

Produced by Paramount Television Studios and Anonymous Content, the series is created for television by Graham Roland and JD Dillard. Roland also serves as showrunner and executive producer alongside Dillard, David Levine, Garrett Kemble and Zack Hayden for Anonymous Content; Aubrey “Drake” Graham, Adel “Future” Nur and Jason Shrier for DreamCrew Entertainment; and Jennifer Haley and William Gibson, who also executive produce. Dillard serves as director of the first three episodes.

The debut novel by Gibson, “Neuromancer” has been praised as one of the first and most respected works in the cyberpunk genre and has received numerous accolades, including the Nebula Award, the Philip K. Dick Award and the Hugo Award. The novel served as the first book in the “Sprawl” trilogy and was followed by “Count Zero” and “Mona Lisa Overdrive.”

Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 850 wins and 3,800 award nominations, including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” global cultural phenomenon “Severance,” Apple’s most-viewed drama, “Pluribus,” Academy Award Best Picture winner “CODA” and Academy Award winner “F1,” the highest-grossing sports feature of all time.

MacDailyNews Take: “Neuromancer” fans, what do you think?


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Apple preps major Apple Watch refresh, full Mac overhaul, new device leasing program, and Ford Maps partnership

Tue, 2026-07-28 00:00
Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3.

Apple is advancing several key product and service initiatives beyond its smart glasses efforts, according to details shared in Bloomberg News’ Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter. These include refreshed Apple Watch models heading into late-stage testing, a comprehensive update across its entire Mac lineup to meet AI-driven demand, a new leasing program with Klarna, and a navigation partnership with Ford.

Three New Apple Watch Models in Late-Stage Testing

Apple is currently testing three new Apple Watch models expected this fall: the Series 12 in both Wi-Fi-only and cellular versions (internally codenamed N237 and N238) and the Ultra 4 (N240). No new Apple Watch SE is planned for 2026, following the prior year’s refresh of that model.

These updates will retain the existing design language rather than introducing a visual overhaul. Focus areas include performance improvements via new processors and enhancements to health and fitness tracking capabilities. A more significant redesign of the Apple Watch is in the works but is not expected for another year or two. Work also continues on a blood-sugar monitoring feature, a long-term project originally conceived during the Steve Jobs era, with availability targeted later this decade.

Full Mac Lineup Overhaul for AI Demand

Apple is preparing new versions of every Mac it currently sells, timed across this fall and into next year, to capitalize on demand for powerful machines suited to artificial intelligence workloads.

The initial wave this fall is expected to include a refreshed entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M6 chip and updated iMac models (the first significant desktop refresh in some time). Later in late 2026 or early 2027, higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring OLED displays and touchscreen capabilities are planned (using M5 Pro and M5 Max chips in the first generation of the redesigned versions). Updated MacBook Air models (13- and 15-inch), a refreshed MacBook Neo with an A19 Pro chip and increased memory plus potential new colors, plus new Mac mini (M6 and M5 Pro) and Mac Studio (M5 Max and M5 Ultra) configurations are also in development. Timing for some desktop models may depend on memory chip supply availability amid broader industry constraints. Further redesigns and chip updates (including M7 variants) are mapped into 2027 and beyond.

Apple Upgrade Device Leasing Program with Klarna

Apple plans to launch “Apple Upgrade,” a leasing program in partnership with Klarna, on July 28th. It will cover most iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch models and represents one of the largest shifts in how the company sells devices.

Lease terms are expected to run 24 months for iPhones and Apple Watches and 36 months for Macs and iPads. Customers can make monthly payments, pay off the device early, upgrade to a newer model before the term ends, keep the device, or return it at the end of the period (with some options potentially involving additional fees). The program requires a soft credit check, will be available online and in U.S. Apple Stores, and will not bundle AppleCare.

A soft credit check (also called a soft inquiry or soft pull) is a review of your credit report that does not affect your credit score. Lenders or companies use it to pre-qualify you, check eligibility, or review an existing account, without the temporary score dip that comes from a hard inquiry (which is used for actual loan/credit applications). Soft checks still appear on your own credit report but are not visible to other lenders.

Certain entry-level models (such as the Apple Watch SE, base iPad, iPhone 16, and MacBook Neo) and business/education purchases are excluded. It is intended to replace or wind down new enrollments in existing iPhone Upgrade and standard financing options, with marketing emphasizing lower monthly payments.

Apple Maps Integration with Ford’s Universal Electric Vehicle Platform

Apple and Ford have announced that Apple Maps will be integrated directly into Ford’s upcoming Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) Platform, starting in 2027, via Apple’s new MapKit for Automotive SDK. This will deliver native navigation on vehicle displays—including turn-by-turn directions with natural language, real-time traffic and incident information, detailed place cards, intelligent EV routing with battery preconditioning—without requiring a paired iPhone (though CarPlay remains available as an option).

Road-level Maps data will also support Ford’s Latitude AI team in developing enhanced hands-free driving experiences, including next-generation BlueCruise capabilities for a more seamless on-ramp-to-off-ramp experience. The UEV Platform underpins Ford’s planned affordable electric vehicles, beginning with a midsize electric truck targeted around the $30,000 price point.

These developments reflect Apple’s broader hardware refresh cycle and service expansions amid rising component costs and growing demand for AI-capable devices and integrated experiences. As always, details remain subject to change as the company finalizes plans ahead of expected fall announcements.

MacDailyNews Take: These developments reflect Apple’s broader hardware refresh cycle and service expansions amid rising component costs and growing demand for AI-capable devices and integrated experiences. As always, details remain subject to change as the company finalizes plans ahead of expected fall announcements.


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After Meta Ray-Bans ‘Pervert Glasses,’ Apple’s smart glasses must focus on privacy

Mon, 2026-07-27 23:00
Ray-Ban Meta glasses

Apple’s long-rumored smart glasses face a steep uphill battle that has little to do with hardware specs or AI capabilities. The real obstacle is the privacy stigma attached to the entire category — one largely created by Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, which critics have derisively labeled “pervert glasses.”

According to Bloomberg News’ Mark Gurman in the Power On newsletter, Apple is now targeting a public debut for its first smart glasses at WWDC in June 2027, with a consumer launch expected later that year. Internally codenamed N50, the device had previously been eyed for a late-2026 introduction and early-2027 release. The delay stems in significant part from Apple’s deliberate effort to refine both the product and its privacy messaging.

Meta’s Ray-Ban Meta glasses have sold millions of pairs and demonstrated commercial viability for camera-equipped eyewear that can capture photos and video, play music, handle calls, and leverage AI. But that success has come with heavy baggage. Reports of users discreetly recording people without consent, online hacks that disable or hide the recording indicator light, and investigations revealing that contractors reviewed intimate footage (including bathroom visits and sexual activity) for AI training have fueled public distrust. Protests have occurred, some jurisdictions have restricted the devices, and the “pervert glasses” nickname has stuck in online discourse.

Apple, which has spent more than a decade positioning privacy as a core brand pillar, is acutely aware of the risk. Simply entering the same product category threatens to undermine that carefully cultivated reputation, regardless of how differently the company approaches the technology. Teams in Apple’s Vision hardware group and elsewhere treat privacy as “priority No. 1,” Gurman reports.

The company has explored multiple approaches to cameras. One option under debate would include full camera hardware, but disable photo and video recording entirely, limiting the sensors to feeding visual data into on-device AI for object recognition, navigation, or environmental awareness. Another prototype eliminates cameras altogether while retaining audio features, Siri access, music playback, and calls. The most likely path, however, appears to retain conventional cameras paired with substantially stronger privacy protections than those offered by Meta.

Expected safeguards include heavy reliance on on-device processing, avoidance of facial recognition, rejection of continuous “super-sensing” modes that analyze surroundings without clear indicators, and a firm policy against using customer recordings to train AI models or sending footage to third-party contractors for review. Hardware indicators are also expected to be more prominent and harder to defeat than Meta’s small LED. Price is anticipated in the $200–$500 range, with multiple frame styles, oval-shaped cameras, and no in-lens AR display in the first generation. The glasses would primarily serve as an iPhone companion for hands-free Siri, Visual Intelligence features, and media.

Apple’s strategy is clear: lean hard into privacy differentiation. Whether that will be enough to overcome bystander discomfort remains an open question. Even users who trust Apple more than Meta may still feel uneasy around anyone wearing outward-facing cameras. Success will depend not only on technical features but on convincing the public that these glasses respect the privacy of everyone in view—not just the wearer.

MacDailyNews Take: Disabling photo and video recording entirely would be a deal-breaker. No sale.

However, if Apple gets this right, privacy could become the product’s strongest selling point. If not, the company may discover that even its brand equity cannot fully erase the cultural resistance Meta’s glasses helped create. The delayed timeline gives Apple time to get the balance right before the world puts its smart glasses to the ultimate test.


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Apple stock surges over 3% on analyst upgrades, China AI approval, and pre-earnings optimism

Sat, 2026-07-25 07:30

Apple shares surged roughly 3.53% on Friday, closing at $333.02 after closing the prior day at $321.66. This moved the stock closer to recent record highs and pushed its market cap at $4.891 trillion.

Main drivers

Several factors appear to have fueled the move amid a mixed-to-weaker broader market (with pressure on some chip and other tech stocks):

• Analyst support and price target increases: Multiple firms issued positive notes. Robert W. Baird raised its target to $330 from $310 (Outperform). Morgan Stanley lifted its target to $364 from $360 (Overweight), citing expectations that fiscal Q3 results (due July 30) could modestly beat consensus. HSBC upgraded to Buy with a $366 target. These reinforced confidence in Apple’s fundamentals ahead of earnings.

• Apple Intelligence progress in China: Reports of successful regulatory registration/approval for Apple’s generative AI features in China (partnering with local firms such as Alibaba’s Tongyi Qianwen as a core model and Baidu secondarily) boosted sentiment. China remains a key market, and clearer access for on-device AI features is viewed as a meaningful long-term positive for services and hardware demand.

• AI strategy and pre-earnings optimism: Investors continue to favor Apple’s relatively capital-efficient, on-device AI approach (lower data-center spending than many peers). This has helped the stock outperform in recent weeks even as other big tech names face higher capex scrutiny. Anticipation of the July 30 earnings report (consensus roughly around $1.88–$1.89 EPS and ~$109 billion revenue, with solid year-over-year growth expected) added to the buying interest.

Recent product-cycle optimism (including the broader Mac refresh pipeline reported earlier in the week) and Apple’s overall ecosystem strength have provided a supportive backdrop, but today’s jump was more directly tied to the analyst actions, China AI milestone, and earnings positioning.

MacDailyNews Take: Stock moves can reverse quickly, and no single factor is ever the sole cause. Apple has not issued company-specific news today that appears to be the primary catalyst. Earnings on July 30th, whcih we will, as usual cover with live notes, will be Apple’s next major test.


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Apple preps next-gen MacBook Neo with A19 Pro chip, more memory, and new colors amid broader Mac overhaul

Sat, 2026-07-25 07:00
Apple’s MacBook Neo in Citrus

Apple is developing an updated MacBook Neo featuring more memory, an upgraded A19 Pro chip, and additional color options as part of a wide-ranging refresh of its entire Mac lineup, according to a Bloomberg News report by Mark Gurman.

The original MacBook Neo, Apple’s budget-friendly entry-level laptop launched in March 2026, quickly became a huge hit. It debuted at $599 (as low as $499 with education pricing) before rising to a $699 starting price amid industry-wide memory cost pressures. Powered by the A18 Pro chip (the first Mac to use an A-series processor typically found in iPhones and iPads), it offered 8GB of unified memory, a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, and vibrant finishes including Silver, Blush, Citrus, and Indigo. Strong demand led to initial sell-outs, and it has been praised for bringing accessible Mac performance and Apple Intelligence features to a lower price point.

The next-generation Neo will address some of the original’s constraints by increasing unified memory — reports indicate a jump to 12GB — and switching to the A19 Pro chip (already used in recent iPhone models). Extra color options will expand on the fun, marketing-friendly palette that helped the first Neo stand out. These upgrades could help offset the recent price increase by delivering better performance and longevity, particularly for AI-related tasks.

This Neo update forms part of a much larger Mac pipeline. Gurman’s reporting indicates Apple plans new versions of nearly every Mac it sells over the next couple of years, driven by surging demand for AI-capable machines. Key elements include:

• An entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with the new M6 chip expected this fall (2026).

• Long-awaited iMac refreshes also targeted for fall 2026.

• High-end 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros featuring OLED displays and touchscreens, powered by M5 Pro and Max chips, eyed for late 2026 or early 2027.

• A MacBook Air refresh that could include its first major redesign in over four years.

• Updated Mac mini models testing M5 Pro and M6 chips, plus Mac Studio variants with M5 Max and Ultra (or later M7 chips), though memory supply constraints tied to the broader AI boom may affect timing.

Industry observers note that ongoing global memory shortages exacerbated by AI server demand have already driven price increases across Apple’s lineup and could influence both availability and pricing of the new models. Apple has also been exploring ways to sustain sales momentum, including a new leasing program.

MacDailyNews Take: The MacBook Neo’s success showed Apple’s willingness to expand downward in the laptop market while defending premium margins higher up. An improved Neo with more memory and a newer chip would further strengthen that position, especially if it retains a competitive price relative to crappy Windows alternatives. Exact release timing for the updated Neo remains unspecified in the reports, but it fits into Apple’s broader push to modernize the Mac range for an AI-driven era.


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Apple’s foldable iPhone to grab 25% of foldable smartphone sales this year – Counterpoint Research

Sat, 2026-07-25 05:30
3D render claiming to depict Apple’s first foldable iPhone (image: Jon Prosser)

Apple is poised to make one of the most impressive debuts in recent smartphone history. According to Counterpoint Research’s latest forecast, the company’s first foldable iPhone is expected to capture a remarkable 25% share of global foldable smartphone shipments in 2026 — its very first year (really, quarter) in the category — while helping propel the overall market to robust 21% year-over-year growth.

This is no ordinary product launch. In a segment long dominated by a handful of Android players, Apple is projected to debut in a clear second place, ahead of Huawei (24%) and closing the gap dramatically on market leader Samsung, whose share is forecast to decline from 40% in 2025 to 32%. Motorola and HONOR are expected to see further erosion of their positions, underscoring how Apple’s entry is poised to reshape the competitive landscape overnight.

Global Foldable Smartphone Shipment Share by OEM, 2025 vs 2026F
Source: Counterpoint Foldable Smartphone Market Forecast

What makes this projection especially powerful is the nature of the demand Apple is expected to unlock. Counterpoint notes that Apple’s arrival will intensify competition specifically in the premium book-type foldable segment—the form factor that prioritizes productivity, multitasking, and expansive screen real estate over pure novelty. As AI features evolve beyond simple chat into everyday workflows such as document summarization, content editing, schedule management, and seamless cross-app information movement, a wider, more flexible canvas becomes essential. Apple’s anticipated design approach aligns perfectly with this shift, positioning the foldable iPhone as a natural extension of the company’s longstanding focus on refined user experience, seamless ecosystem integration, and premium craftsmanship.

Samsung is set to retain the overall lead for now, but the narrowing of its advantage to just seven percentage points over Apple highlights the disruptive force of Cupertino’s entry. Other brands that once held meaningful shares are projected to lose ground, illustrating how a single, highly anticipated Apple product can redefine market dynamics and accelerate category maturation.

The 21% growth forecast for the global foldable market in 2026 is itself a vote of confidence in the category’s future, and Counterpoint explicitly ties much of that expansion to Apple’s influence. By bringing its massive, loyal customer base, rigorous attention to durability and software optimization, and unmatched brand prestige into the foldable arena, Apple is expected to expand the total addressable market rather than merely redistribute existing demand. Premium book-style devices stand to benefit most, moving foldables further from experimental gadgets toward mainstream productivity tools.

For years, observers have waited for Apple’s carefully timed move into foldables. The Counterpoint numbers suggest that timing was deliberate and strategic. Rather than rushing to market, Apple appears positioned to enter with a product that not only claims a quarter of all foldable shipments in its first quarter, but also elevates the entire segment—raising expectations for design excellence, software polish, and real-world utility.

In short, 2026 is shaping up as the year the foldable smartphone market comes of age, and Apple is set to be one of its primary architects. Capturing 25% share on debut is more than a strong start; it is a clear signal that when Apple decides a category is ready, the industry—and consumers — take notice.

MacDailyNews Take: And, in 2027, if they don’t actually exceed Counterpoint’s projection and claim the crown straight off in Q226, after a mere three months on the market, Apple’s iPhone will be No.1 in foldable smartphones. Apple’s well-heeled customer base guarantees it.

As with fingerprint and facial recognition, when Apple debuts a foldable iPhone, then foldable smartphones will have been done right.MacDailyNews, January 17, 2019


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$250 million Siri delay settlement approved: Apple to pay select iPhone buyers

Sat, 2026-07-25 03:26
Still from an iPhone 16 ad touting Apple Intelligence Siri features

A U.S. judge has given preliminary approval to Apple’s $250 million settlement of a class action lawsuit over the delayed launch of advanced, personalized Siri features that the company had heavily advertised. Eligible U.S. owners of the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models purchased between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025 may eventually receive $25–$95 per device, though a claims website is not yet live and no action is needed right now.

Joe Rossignol for MacRumors:

In June 2024, Apple previewed new Siri capabilities powered by Apple Intelligence, including understanding of a user’s personal context, on-screen awareness, and deeper per-app controls. For example, Apple showed an iPhone user asking Siri about their mother’s flight and lunch reservation plans based on info from the Mail and Messages apps.

Apple advertised those Siri features in product presentations, on its website, in a TV commercial starring actor Bella Ramsey, and elsewhere.

In March 2025, Apple delayed the launch of the personalized version of Siri, leading to the company being hit with a class action lawsuit alleging false advertising…

It is unlikely that individuals who submit a claim will still need to have physical possession of an eligible iPhone model. However, there is a possibility that proof of purchase or other information will be required, such as the device’s serial number. Exact requirements will be outlined on the settlement website, which is still not live.


MacDailyNews Note: To be eligible to submit a claim, you must reside in the U.S. and have purchased any iPhone 15 Pro or any iPhone 16 model between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025.

MacDailyNews Take: Apple got off easy. It ended up being effective advertising, albeit false. $250 million is just part of the marketing budget and, to Apple, it’s pocket change.

As usual, we called it correctly very early on:

When you're caught flat-footed like Tim Cook's Apple, you pop into scramble mode to try to catch up. Early on, you hit it with a big marketing flourish (WWDC24) in order to buy some more time. Then you dribble out features as they get finished & actually exist. Classic vaporware. https://t.co/I1J4y3aDNy pic.twitter.com/fLKvxGj4G3

— MacDailyNews (@MacDailyNews) July 31, 2024

The Apple Intelligence vaporware [is] false advertising, fraud, and lies. Those will be the basis for class action lawsuits from iPhone, iPad, and Mac customers soon enough. And Apple will deserve them all.MacDailyNews, March 14, 2025

See also: Apple pulls iPhone 16 ad touting nonexistent Apple Intelligence-powered Siri features – March 10, 2025


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Apple leans on component suppliers to keep down prices of next-gen iPhones

Sat, 2026-07-25 02:00

Apple is pressing its OLED panel suppliers for a substantial price reduction on displays destined for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max, as soaring memory chip costs force the company to seek savings elsewhere in its bill of materials.

According to a report from Korean outlet The Elec, Apple has proposed paying around $70 per OLED panel for the iPhone 18 Pro Max. Industry estimates indicate the final supply price from Samsung Display and LG Display could settle even lower — at approximately $66.50. That represents a roughly 20% drop compared with the panels used in the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

While Apple has historically negotiated lower OLED prices with each successive iPhone generation, this year’s cut is unusually steep. The reduction comes despite increased manufacturing complexity: the iPhone 18 series is expected to incorporate Samsung Display’s latest M16 OLED material set, which improves luminous efficiency, lifespan, and color performance. Panel makers must refine processes and stabilize yields for the new materials, raising production difficulty even as prices fall.

The aggressive push for lower display costs is driven by “chipflation”—sharp increases in memory semiconductor prices. Smartphone makers across the industry are attempting to offset higher memory expenses by cutting procurement costs for other components, including displays and camera modules.

Samsung Display President Lee Cheong recently highlighted the pressure, stating at K-Display 2026 that “this year is extremely difficult because of chipflation” and that “very strong pressure is coming in to lower component and display prices.” LG Display’s president noted the company is feeling the effects but described them as manageable through ongoing cost innovation.

Market research firm UBI Research projects Samsung Display will supply 46 million OLED panels for Apple’s bar-type iPhone 18 lineup this year (2 million for the standard model, 18 million for the Pro, and 26 million for the Pro Max). LG Display is expected to provide about 41 million panels (roughly 1 million for the standard model, 19 million for the Pro, and 21 million for the Pro Max).

Apple is anticipated to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in September 2026 alongside its first foldable iPhone, with the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e following in spring 2027. Analysts have suggested the Pro models could see starting prices of $1,299 and $1,399 respectively — up $200 from their predecessors — largely due to elevated memory and storage costs.Whether the OLED savings will help limit further price increases for consumers remains to be seen, but the negotiations underscore the intense cost pressures currently facing the smartphone supply chain.

MacDailyNews Take: In the high-stakes world of smartphone component supply, the message from Cupertino is clear and uncompromising: If you want to keep Apple’s gargantuan business, you will help them preserve their margins.


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How Apple TV became an awards magnet

Sat, 2026-07-25 01:00
Apple TV

Apple TV has come a long way since its uneven 2019 launch, transforming into a prestige powerhouse with 89 Emmy nominations this year — trailing only HBO Max and Netflix. From early misfires to critical darlings like “Widow’s Bay,” “Pluribus,” “Shrinking,” “Slow Horses,” and “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” the streamer has refined its approach by betting on bold, idiosyncratic storytelling.

Rebecca Ford for Vanity Fair:

When it debuted, Apple TV (which back then had a plus sign at the end of its name) trotted out a ton of stars who would be featured in its new shows and films, like Jennifer Aniston, Jason Momoa, and Oprah Winfrey. But many of the shows, other than The Morning Show, fell flat with audiences. Over the years, the streamer has instead been focusing on working with creatives who have boundary-pushing concepts, like Ben Stiller’s Severance or Seth Rogen’s The Studio. The shows may seem like bigger gambles on paper, but when they work, they earn acclaim.

“These are all shows that are incredibly idiosyncratic and have a really, really strong vision,” says Vanity Fair special correspondent Joy Press. “They have actors that we recognize, but they’re not the biggest stars in the universe. But they have a very strong voice behind them.”


MacDailyNews Take: Listen below to hear about how Apple TV has pulled off this feat — and what challenges may still lie ahead for Cupertino’s oft-lauded streaming service.


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Digital driver’s licenses and IDs in Apple Wallet may soon arrive in Utah

Sat, 2026-07-25 00:00
In U.S. states such as California, driver’s licenses and state IDs can be added to Apple Wallet, enabling residents to seamlessly and securely add and present their IDs using iPhone or Apple Watch.

Utah residents may soon be able to store their driver’s licenses and IDs in Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch. MacRumors has uncovered references to a Utah ID in Apple’s backend systems, indicating the company is actively working on support. While the state already offers a mobile driver’s license through a standalone app, that solution currently lacks Apple Wallet integration.

Juli Clover for MacRumors:

Utah’s mobile driver’s license FAQ page still says that it is still in the initial planning process of adding Utah IDs to Apple Wallet, but it may not be up to date.

The site also says that when Apple Wallet integration launches, iPhone users who already use the mobile app for their Utah ID will be able to download it to Apple Wallet.

Apple announced plans to add Utah driver’s licenses and IDs to the Apple Wallet app way back in 2021, but no integration has materialized. Utah was one of the first states Apple mentioned when rolling out the feature.

Other states planning to add support for driver’s licenses in Apple Wallet include Connecticut, Kentucky, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Virginia.


MacDailyNews Note: Multiple states and Puerto Rico have already implemented support for users to store their driver’s licenses and IDs in Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch, including:

Arkansas*
Arizona
California
Colorado
Georgia
Hawaii
Illinois
Iowa
Maryland
Montana
New Mexico
North Dakota
Ohio
West Virginia

*some users in specific jurisdictions in Arkansas may still see staggered access depending on whether their state agency has finalized all local database integrations.


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Intel’s AI chip boom sparks rally; Apple deal rumors add extra buzz

Fri, 2026-07-24 23:00

Intel forecast stronger-than-expected third-quarter revenue and profit on Thursday, fueled by surging demand for its data-center CPUs amid the agentic AI boom. Shares jumped more than 5% after hours as the company also raised its 2026 capital-spending plans, while lingering hopes of a high-profile manufacturing partnership with Apple continue to intrigue investors.

Reuters:

Intel expects third-quarter revenue between $15.8 billion and $16.8 billion, compared with analysts’ average estimate of $15.1 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG. Adjusted profit is expected to be 38 cents per share, compared with analyst estimates of 27 cents.

On a conference call with analysts, [CEO Lip-Bu] Tan said second-quarter developments prompted Intel to become “fully committed” to high-volume production of ​chips made with its forthcoming 14A manufacturing technology in 2028. Last year, Intel had warned it might be forced to abandon 14A if it could not find a major customer, which would have effectively ​put the U.S. out of the race to make the world’s fastest chips.

“I’m pleased to see the increasing momentum on customer engagements for Intel 14A, and I’m increasingly confident that the 14A will be a highly competitive process,” Tan said.

For the second quarter ended June 27, Intel said sales rose 25.4% to $16.13 billion and adjusted profit was 42 cents per share, compared with estimates of $14.42 billion and 21 cents per share. Adjusted gross margin came in at ​41.8%, versus estimates of 38.8%…

Intel’s foundry business had $5.77 billion in second-quarter sales, compared with analyst estimates of $5.55 billion.

The unit secured Elon Musk’s Tesla as a customer for its next-generation 14A process for ⁠the “Terafab” AI chip ​project. Expectations of another high-profile win rose in April after President Donald Trump announced that Apple AAPL.O had agreed to make ​processors with Intel. Neither company has confirmed the deal.


MacDailyNews Take: Reported possibilities for Intel’s 14A node in regard to Apple Silicon (based on preliminary agreements and analyst/rumor commentary, none of which have been officially confirmed by Apple or Intel) include:

• Future iPhone A-series SoCs (e.g., successors around the A21/A22 generation) on 14A, potentially entering production toward the end of 2028.

• Certain M-series chips for Macs and iPads, though some reports lean toward earlier nodes like 18A-P for nearer-term Mac chips (around 2027) and 14A for later or higher-end parts.

The 14A node’s density and efficiency gains would suit Apple’s priorities: packing more transistors for stronger CPU/GPU/Neural Engine performance while keeping power consumption low enough for battery-powered devices. Mobile SoCs (especially iPhone chips) are often mentioned among analysts as a strong fit for new advanced nodes because of their volume and efficiency focus.

Important caveats: No official confirmation exists of which specific Apple Silicon products (if any) would use 14A, the exact mix of chips, or volume. Production is still years out, dependent on Intel successfully ramping the process and meeting Apple’s stringent yield, quality, and capacity requirements. Diversifying away from TSMC is the main strategic motive for Apple reigniting business with Intel.


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Apple’s wafer-thin iPhone Air MagSafe Battery is 40 percent off

Fri, 2026-07-24 07:30
The new iPhone Air MagSafe Battery has a thin and light design that magnetically attaches to the back of iPhone Air to extend battery life during busier days.

Apple’s wafer-thin iPhone Air MagSafe Battery is currently available at a significant discount — 40% off, dropping from its regular $99 price to $59 at Amazon.

This official Apple accessory is designed as a slim, seamless power extension specifically for the iPhone Air. It magnetically attaches to the back of the phone and is thin enough to slip into a pocket while still attached, making it feel more like a permanent battery upgrade than a traditional bulky power bank.

Key Features and Benefits

Apple engineered the MagSafe Battery exclusively for the iPhone Air. It adds up to 65% additional charge, helping extend battery life beyond that of other iPhones in the lineup under tested conditions.

Highlights include:

• Ultra-thin and lightweight design — Reviews and product details note its slim profile (around 6.5 mm in some comparisons), rounded edges for comfortable handling, and a soft-touch finish that integrates cleanly with the phone.

• Up to 12W wireless charging on the go when snapped on. For faster results, attach it and plug the phone into a higher-wattage adapter (20W+ or 25–30W recommended in some guidance) at the same time.

• Smart charging behavior — The system intelligently manages power between the phone and the battery pack to maximize overall runtime. It can also charge smaller accessories via its USB-C port.

• Seamless MagSafe attachment — It aligns magnetically and works with compatible MagSafe cases (remove cards or other items from wallets first).

Capacity is relatively modest (teardowns and reports point to roughly 3,149 mAh, similar to the iPhone Air’s own battery), so it prioritizes slimness and integration over maximum capacity. It typically provides a meaningful top-up (enough for a full day of moderate use in many scenarios) rather than a complete full recharge in one go.

Who It’s Best For

This is ideal for iPhone Air owners who want extra battery without adding noticeable bulk or changing the phone’s sleek feel. It can serve as a near-permanent companion for all-day use. While primarily optimized for the iPhone Air, some users have noted broader MagSafe compatibility benefits with other recent iPhones, though Apple positions it as exclusive to the Air.

MacDailyNews Take: The $59 price (40% off the $99 MSRP) represents a solid discount on an official Apple accessory. Deals like this can sell out or change quickly — Amazon stock and pricing fluctuate — so check the current listing directly. Apple’s own store continues to list it at the full $99.


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Benicio Del Toro to star in Apple TV’s Mike Judge-Ben Stiller comedy series ‘Protective Custody’

Fri, 2026-07-24 06:30

Benicio Del Toro is heading to Apple TV for his first-ever starring role in a comedy series.

The Oscar winner will lead “Protective Custody,” a new comedy from Mike Judge, Ben Stiller (who also stars and executive produces), Steve Hely, and Dave King.

It’s a reunion for Del Toro and Stiller after their acclaimed limited series “Escape at Dannemora.” The series is currently in development at Apple Studios.

Tony Maglio for The Hollywood Reporter:

“Protective Custody” will follow “a disgraced financier accused of massive fraud who is thrown into protective custody, where he must navigate prison politics, salvage his reputation and confront the consequences of his actions while awaiting trial,” according to the synopsis.

Apple will not say if Del Toro or Stiller (or someone else!) is that disgraced financier.

Judge will direct the series, which hails from Apple Studios, Stiller’s Red Hour, Propagate Content, and 3 Arts Entertainment.

Stiller is one of Apple TV’s most prolific producers. He executive produces and often directs episodes of “Severance,” and Stiller’s documentary about his parents, “Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost,” is also on the platform. Stiller produces and stars in the upcoming feature-length comedy movie “The Dink” for Apple TV, and is in production for its limited series “The Off Weeks,” which he stars in and executive produces opposite Jessica Chastain.


MacDailyNews Take: Shut up. Just shut up. You had us at Mike Judge. You had us at Mike Judge.


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Crank up Apple’s Liquid Glass to maximum transparency and you’ll enjoy every warped second

Fri, 2026-07-24 05:30
Apple’s Liquid Glass

Apple’s Liquid Glass interface has always been a bold, polarizing experiment in translucency. With the iOS 27 public beta, the company is now letting users push it even further — into “More Clear” territory. One writer cranked the new slider all the way to maximum transparency and spent a full week living with the most warped, glassy, and delightfully distorted iPhone experience yet.

From notifications that ripple and refract app icons like light through actual glass, to menu bars that turn text into momentary abstract art, the clearest Liquid Glass setting revives the playful dimensionality Apple first chased more than a decade ago. It’s not the most practical choice for everyone, but for those willing to embrace the whimsy, it turns the phone into something closer to living, breathing art.

Wired‘s Reece Rogers dove in headfirst. Here’s what it felt like to go full transparent.

Reece Rogers for Wired:

Fear not — if you don’t feel the same way as I do about transparency — you can drag that same slider to the right and boost the overall opacity of Liquid Glass. There’s still the option to Reduce Transparency and Increase Contrast as well.

I immediately cranked my settings to maximum clarity after I downloaded the public beta and left the setting on for a week to get the full experience. I understand why some prefer the heavily tinted version or need to switch it for accessibility reasons, yet I reveled in the warped colors and characters as I experienced Liquid Glass in its clearest glory.

The “more clear” option also added an increased depth to my device — reminiscent of an Apple update from more than a decade ago, in iOS 7, that you likely haven’t thought about in a minute: 3D apps. Apple added a parallax wallpaper effect during the iPhone 5’s heyday that used the smartphone’s gyroscope to make it appear as if app icons on your home screen floated slightly above the background, visibly shifting to the phone’s tilt.

Both Liquid Glass and 3D app icons gave the iPhone a more tactile sense of dimensionality…

Halfway through my week of testing, this option started to look so normal to me that I worried I had accidentally reset my phone to the default and checked my settings to ensure “more clear” was still enabled. It was. Which was a relief, and a sign I’d adjusted to this clearer version of Liquid Glass even faster than anticipated…

[T]his clear-minded update was delightful to try, and I’m keeping up with my transparent lifestyle even after the weeklong experiment ended.


MacDailyNews Take: You might even say that Apple’s Liquid Glass cranked up to maximum transparency makes the buttons on the screen look so good you’ll want to lick them.


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John C. Dvorak, bloated gasbag, dead at 80

Fri, 2026-07-24 04:10
John C. Dvorak, bloated gasbag

Today – and, admittedly, always – we refer fondly to John C. Dvorak as a “bloated gasbag” on the occasion of his passing at the age of 80.

John wrote and said things, seemingly at random, basically in order to get a rise out of people, not so much because he deeply believed them. Long before the rise of social media, Dvorak was an exemplary engagement farmer, a master of outrage bait, a troll king.

He certainly prompted us to spill reams of digital ink all over our pages for many years and we’ll miss him.

Here are just a few examples:

Here are some of the bloated gasbag’s greatest emissions:

• The Macintosh uses an experimental pointing device called a “mouse.” There is no evidence that people want to use these things. — John C. Dvorak, 1984

• Apple should pull the plug on the iPhone… What Apple risks here is its reputation as a hot company that can do no wrong. If it’s smart it will call the iPhone a ‘reference design’ and pass it to some suckers to build with someone else’s marketing budget. Then it can wash its hands of any marketplace failures… Otherwise I’d advise people to cover their eyes. You are not going to like what you’ll see. — John C. Dvorak, 2007

• iPhone which doesn’t look, I mean to me, I’m looking at this thing and I think it’s kind of trending against, you know, what’s really going, what people are really liking on, in these phones nowadays, which are those little keypads. I mean, the Blackjack from Samsung, the Blackberry, obviously, you know kind of pushes this thing, the Palm, all these… And I guess some of these stocks went down on the Apple announcement, thinking that Apple could do no wrong, but I think Apple can do wrong and I think this is it. — John C. Dvorak, 2007

• The Apple iPad is not going to be the company’s next runaway best seller. — John C. Dvorak, 2010

• Within the decade, Microsoft should have a minimum of 300 stores. They should do as well as the Apple Stores. — John C. Dvorak, 2012

MacDailyNews Take: John, you bloated gasbag, you will be missed! R.I.P.


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