Apple News
Apple releases iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, and watchOS 26.5
Apple today pushed out the latest point updates across its mobile platforms: iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, and watchOS 26.5. While not a massive feature-packed release like the initial iOS 26 launch last September, today’s updates deliver meaningful refinements, security improvements, new customization options, and several under-the-hood enhancements that users will notice in daily use.
What’s New in iOS 26.5 & iPadOS 26.5
The updates focus on polish rather than revolution, but several additions stand out:
• End-to-end encrypted RCS messaging support: Apple has expanded advanced messaging capabilities with full end-to-end encryption for RCS conversations when communicating with Android users. This brings cross-platform chats closer to the security level of iMessage.
• Smarter Maps suggestions and Ads in Maps: Apple Maps now offers more intelligent, context-aware route and place suggestions. The company has also begun rolling out (opt-in) advertising within Maps, a new revenue stream that promises highly relevant local business promotions.
• Pride Harmony wallpaper with extensive customization: A vibrant new Pride-themed wallpaper arrives with deep personalization options for colors, patterns, and animations—perfect for celebrating diversity throughout the year.
• Performance and battery tweaks: Users report snappier animations, faster app launching, and slightly improved battery life on both iPhone and iPad models, especially older supported devices like the iPhone 11 series and iPad Pro (3rd gen) and later.
Bug fixes and security updates: As usual, Apple addressed dozens of vulnerabilities and minor issues carried over from iOS 26.4.2. The company strongly encourages everyone to update promptly.
Additional smaller changes include refined Apple Intelligence behaviors, better handling of notifications in Focus modes, and continued expansion of the Liquid Glass design language introduced in iOS 26.
watchOS 26.5 Highlights
The Apple Watch update mirrors many of the system-level improvements while adding watch-specific touches:
• Wrist flick to dismiss notifications — A convenient new gesture lets you quickly clear alerts with a simple flick of the wrist.
• Enhanced Workout Buddy features — Smarter real-time coaching and motivational prompts during runs, lifts, and other activities.
• Performance optimizations — Better power efficiency and smoother interface responsiveness across Series 6 and newer models (including the latest Ultra 3 and Series 11).
How to Update
The new software is available now over-the-air. Simply go to:
• Settings > General > Software Update on iPhone or iPad
• Watch app > General > Software Update on your paired iPhone for the Watch
Apple recommends backing up your devices before installing, and the updates are compatible with all devices that already run iOS 26 / iPadOS 26 / watchOS 26.
MacDailyNews Take: iOS 26.5 is a classic “spring cleaning” release—nothing flashy, but the kind of update that makes your devices feel fresher and more reliable. With iOS 27 likely on the horizon later this year, today’s release keeps the current generation in excellent shape while quietly laying groundwork for future features.
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Apple releases tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and HomePod 26.5
Apple just dropped a fresh round of updates for its less headline-grabbing platforms: tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and HomePod software 26.5. If you’re hoping for flashy new features, you might want to temper your expectations — this one is all about refinement.
What’s Actually New?
According to Apple’s release notes, these updates contain “performance and stability improvements.” That’s code for: no major user-facing changes. The 26.5 betas have been out for over a month, and even the most dedicated testers haven’t uncovered significant additions. Apple is clearly saving its creative energy for the next major cycle.
Why This Update Still Matters
Even without new bells and whistles, these releases are worth installing. Minor updates like this often include important security patches, bug fixes, and under-the-hood optimizations that keep your devices running smoothly — especially critical for always-on hardware like Apple TV and HomePod.
• Apple TV 4K owners get a more stable experience for streaming, gaming, and AirPlay.
• Apple Vision Pro users benefit from better reliability in what remains Apple’s most ambitious (and demanding) platform.
• HomePod and HomePod mini users should see improved audio performance, Siri responsiveness, and smart home stability.
Apple continues to stress the importance of keeping all your devices updated for the best security and compatibility across the ecosystem.
Eyes on WWDC and the 27 Releases
The real excitement is already building for tvOS 27, visionOS 27, and the next HomePod update. Apple will unveil those features at WWDC 2026 next month (starting June 8th). If history is any guide, we’ll see bigger leaps in Apple Intelligence integration, spatial computing, and smarter home entertainment experiences.
MacDailyNews Take: Today’s 26.5 updates are the software equivalent of a mid-season tune-up—nothing revolutionary, but essential maintenance that keeps the machine running at peak performance. Go ahead and update when you’re prompted.
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Apple unveils new Mac ad targeting college students: ‘Great Ideas Start Here’
Apple continues its strong push to highlight the Mac as the ultimate creative and productive tool, this time with a fresh video aimed squarely at students heading into or already navigating college life.
Titled “Mac Students: The journey to great ideas in college,” the video showcases how MacBooks empower students to brainstorm, problem-solve, and bring ambitious projects to life. It emphasizes the Mac’s role in turning raw ideas into reality — perfect timing amid surging demand for Apple’s latest hardware, including the MacBook Neo and high-end Mac mini/Mac Studio models driven by AI capabilities.
The ad captures real-world student scenarios: late-night study sessions, collaborative group projects, and creative workflows where the Mac’s performance, battery life, and seamless ecosystem make all the difference. It’s part of Apple’s broader “Great Ideas Start Here” campaign, which positions the Mac as the starting point for innovation, whether in education, professional work, or personal creativity.
MacDailyNews Take: This student-focused spot arrives as Apple reports record interest in its Mac lineup. With Apple Silicon powering impressive AI features and unmatched efficiency, the Mac is attracting both longtime fans and first-time switchers.
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Behind the Lens: The cutting-edge camera gear powering Apple TV’s ‘Widow’s Bay’ and its cinematic peers
Apple TV’s “Widow’s Bay,” the eerie horror-comedy series created by Katie Dippold and starring Matthew Rhys, has captivated audiences with its atmospheric New England island visuals — rich, inky blacks, painterly coastal mist, and a hauntingly detailed look that blends charm with dread. Much of that visual magic comes down to the sophisticated equipment chosen by cinematographer Christian Sprenger, ASC (known for his work on “Atlanta”).
The Gear That Defines “Widow’s Bay”
The production relied on high-end digital cinema tools provided by Keslow Camera. Industry discussions and early technical breakdowns confirm that Sprenger paired the Sony VENICE (likely a VENICE 2) camera system with vintage Canon K35 prime lenses. These classic 1970s lenses are renowned for their fast apertures (typically T/1.3 or T/1.5), beautiful organic rendering, and creamy fall-off that delivers a soft, painterly quality with exceptional character in highlights and skin tones.
The combination of the Sony VENICE’s outstanding dynamic range and color science with the K35s’ vintage optics helped create the series’ signature moody, textured, and filmic aesthetic—perfect for the show’s blend of coastal beauty and creeping horror—without heavy reliance on post-production effects. The fast primes also excelled in the challenging handheld, splash-bag, and rugged location work in Massachusetts.
Similar High-End Gear in Apple TV’s “Silo”
Apple TV’s acclaimed dystopian series “Silo” also embraced premium large-format tools to achieve its claustrophobic yet epic underground world. Cinematographers including David Luther, Kiesha, and Laurie Rose (among others) captured the show primarily on the ARRI Alexa Mini LF paired with Caldwell Chameleon anamorphic lenses.
These Chameleons — custom-developed by Caldwell based on Panavision anamorphic glass — provided a distinctive cinematic compression, characterful fall-off, beautiful flares, and organic edge distortion. The anamorphic look enhanced the series’ sense of confinement and scale on the massive silo sets while maintaining the sharp, high-dynamic-range imaging the Alexa LF family is known for.
Other Productions Using Similar or the Same Equipment
Apple TV and other premium streamers frequently invest in top-tier gear for a cinematic edge. Here are notable examples sharing similar large-format or high-end setups:
• Sony VENICE (often with vintage or specialized lenses like the Canon K35s) appears in many prestige TV productions for its color science and modularity. It’s a go-to for narrative work needing flexibility on location, much like the coastal shoots in “Widow’s Bay.”
• ARRI Alexa Mini LF and its large-format siblings deliver expansive resolution and shallow depth of field for epic scope, as seen in Silo and other ambitious Apple projects.
• Vintage Canon K35s and Caldwell Chameleons (both from specialist rental houses like Keslow and ARRI Rental) reflect a growing trend toward character-driven optics that give premium television a timeless, organic aesthetic.
“Widow’s Bay” and “Silo” prove that thoughtful gear choices (especially pairing modern digital cinema bodies with vintage or custom lenses) can elevate storytelling, whether it’s misty coastal horror or buried dystopian tension. If you’re a cinephile or filmmaker, these Apple TV productions highlight how far premium television cinematography has come.
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 TV’s ‘The Dynasty: UConn Huskies’ set to premiere globally August 21st
Apple TV announced that the new three-part docuseries, “The Dynasty: UConn Huskies,” featuring the legendary University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball team, will premiere globally on Friday, August 21, 2026. Spanning 40 years of the program’s historic run under Hall of Fame head coach Geno Auriemma, “The Dynasty: UConn Huskies” is directed by Emmy Award winner Matthew Hamachek under his first-look deal with Apple, and Emmy Award nominee Erica Sashin. The series is produced for Apple TV by Skydance Sports, the award-winning premium content studio housed under Paramount Sports Entertainment.
Featuring exclusive interviews with the 2025 National Championship team — No. 1 2025 WNBA Draft pick Paige Bueckers, No. 1 2026 WNBA Draft pick Azzi Fudd, 2026 collegiate National Player of the Year Sarah Strong, KK Arnold, and Jana El Alfy — alongside voices from across generations of UConn basketball, the series offers a rare, inside look at the players carrying the program forward while reflecting on the legacy that built it.
In 1985, the UConn women’s basketball program had just one winning season. What followed was a transformation led by Auriemma and defined by an iconic lineage of players — from Rebecca Lobo and Swin Cash to Sue Bird, Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, and Breanna Stewart — establishing the Huskies as the gold standard of college basketball. In total, UConn has won 12 national championships, more than any other team, men or women, in the history of NCAA Division I basketball.
Under the leadership of the iconic, and at times polarizing, Auriemma, whose vision and intensity helped define the program’s identity, UConn built a culture rooted in discipline, accountability and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. That culture has produced generations of elite athletes and sustained a level of dominance rarely seen in sports, while also revealing the demands, tensions and personal costs that come with maintaining such an exacting standard.
“The Dynasty: UConn Huskies” traces that journey in full — blending never-before-seen archival footage, incisive interviews and intimate access to players, coaches, alumni and more — revealing how a program built over decades continues to define the standard today.
“The Dynasty: UConn Huskies” is a Skydance Sports production, with Learfield Studios and Revue Studios executive producing. Executive producers are Jesse Sisgold, Jason T. Reed, Jon Weinbach, Lauren Gaffney, Sashin, Hamachek, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, Grant Jones, Jon Liebman, and Zoe Rogovin.
“The Dynasty: UConn Huskies” joins Apple’s expanding offering of nonfiction programming featuring the biggest stories in sports, including “Fight for Glory: 2024 World Series,” featuring the revival of MLB’s most iconic playoff rivalry between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers; “Onside: Major League Soccer,” going beyond the pitch with unprecedented access to players, coaches and clubs during the 2024 season; “Messi’s World Cup: The Rise of a Legend,” the first official and definitive account of Messi’s sensational career with the Argentina national team and his five FIFA World Cup appearances, including his 2022 win; and “Stephen Curry: Underrated,” the remarkable coming-of-age story of one of the most influential, dynamic and unexpected players in the history of basketball, Stephen Curry, among many others.
Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, live sports, 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 earned 816 wins and 3,498 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 pushes back against Canada’s encryption bill
In a move that underscores the growing friction between Silicon Valley and governments worldwide, Apple and Meta have formally opposed Canada’s proposed Bill C-22. The legislation would give law enforcement expanded powers to access digital communications and respond more quickly to perceived security threats. The tech giants argue that the bill risks undermining the very encryption standards that protect hundreds of millions of users.
According to a report published today by Yahoo Finance, both companies have submitted detailed objections, warning that the bill could force them to weaken or bypass encryption in their core products.
What Is Bill C-22 and Why Does It Matter?
Bill C-22 is designed to modernize Canada’s approach to online security and law enforcement. It aims to streamline how authorities obtain data from tech platforms during investigations involving child exploitation, terrorism, or other serious crimes. Proponents say faster access to encrypted messages is essential in an era of sophisticated online threats.Apple and Meta see it differently. Apple warned that broad implementation of the bill could compromise the privacy protections built into iMessage and iCloud. The company emphasized it would “never intentionally introduce flaws” into its products to enable surveillance.
Meta raised similar alarms about WhatsApp, arguing that the bill grants authorities sweeping powers with minimal oversight and could effectively require carriers or platforms to weaken end-to-end encryption.
In short, both companies fear the legislation would create backdoors — intentional weaknesses in encryption that could be exploited not only by Canadian authorities but potentially by malicious actors worldwide.
Canada’s Response: “No Systemic Vulnerabilities”
Canadian officials have pushed back against the criticism. They maintain that the bill does not require companies to introduce systemic vulnerabilities into their technology. Instead, they argue that tech firms remain fully responsible for keeping their systems secure while still being required to assist law enforcement when legally compelled.
This back-and-forth mirrors a global pattern. Similar debates have played out in the UK (with the Online Safety Act), Australia, and the European Union. Governments want surveillance tools, ostensibly to fight crime; tech companies insist that weakening encryption for anyone ultimately weakens it for everyone.
The Bigger Picture for Users and Investors
For everyday users, the stakes are personal:
• Strong encryption protects everything from private family chats to financial data and medical records.
• If governments can mandate access, the “end-to-end” promise that many messaging apps advertise could become conditional.
For investors, the story is equally important. Apple and Meta are already navigating complex regulatory landscapes in the EU (Digital Markets Act), the U.S., and elsewhere. Another high-profile fight in Canada could signal further legal and compliance costs ahead — or, conversely, set a precedent that strengthens the companies’ long-standing public stance on privacy.
A Familiar Standoff
This isn’t the first time Apple and Meta have taken a firm stand. Apple famously resisted the FBI’s demands in the San Bernardino case in 2015. Meta has repeatedly defended WhatsApp’s encryption against pressure from multiple countries. Today’s opposition to Bill C-22 fits squarely into that tradition: tech giants positioning themselves as defenders of user privacy against state overreach.
Whether Canada’s lawmakers will amend the bill, force compliance, or reach some middle-ground compromise remains to be seen. What is clear is that the tension between national security and digital privacy shows no sign of easing.
MacDailyNews Take: In February 2022, during the “Freedom Convoy” protests against draconian and ineffectual COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions, Canada invoked the “Emergencies Act” giving banks and financial institutions the power to freeze personal and business bank accounts of protesters, organizers, and people suspected of supporting the blockades — without needing a court order.
No backdoors!
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Apple TV releases trailer for ‘Cape Fear’ limited series starring Amy Adams, Javier Bardem, and Patrick Wilson
Apple TV has unveiled the trailer for “Cape Fear,” the new psychological horror thriller showrun and executive produced by Nick Antosca, executive produced by Academy Award winners Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg, with Academy Award winner Javier Bardem and Academy Award nominee Amy Adams starring and executive producing. Fear will take hold this summer when the 10-episode limited series makes its global debut on Friday, June 5, 2026 with the first two episodes, followed by new episodes every Friday through July 31, 2026 on Apple TV.
Inspired by the 1991 remake directed by Scorsese and produced by Spielberg, a storm is coming for happily married attorneys Anna (Adams) and Tom Bowden (Patrick Wilson) when Max Cady (Bardem), the notorious killer they are responsible for putting behind bars, is let out of prison — and he wants vengeance. Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominee Patrick Wilson, Joe Anders, Lily Collias, and Malia Pyles round out the ensemble cast. The supporting cast includes CCH Pounder, Jamie Hector, and Anna Baryshnikov.
Hailing from UCP (a division of Universal Studio Group) and Amblin Television, “Cape Fear” is based on both the novel “The Executioners,” which inspired Gregory Peck’s Universal Pictures feature, “Cape Fear” (1962), as well as the acclaimed 1991 remake directed by Scorsese. The series is executive produced by Spielberg, who produced the 1991 film, alongside Scorsese. Creator Antosca showruns and produces alongside Alex Hedlund for Eat the Cat, and Darryl Frank, and Justin Falvey produce alongside Spielberg for Amblin Television. Academy Award nominee Morten Tyldum directs the pilot and serve as executive producer. The series is developed and produced through Antosca’s overall deal at UCP, where he’s been based since 2017.
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 816 wins and 3,498 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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Wedbush raises Apple price target to $400
Apple stock rose about 0.8% on Friday after Wedbush Securities delivered a strong bullish note, lifting its price target from $350 to a new Street-high of $400. The move underscores growing Wall Street confidence in Apple’s ability to capitalize on artificial intelligence as a major growth driver.
Wedbush analysts, led by veteran tech watcher Daniel Ives, believe Apple is uniquely positioned to become a dominant consumer hub for AI technology. With its massive installed base of devices, the firm estimates that nearly 20% of the global population could eventually access AI tools through Apple products.
In their note, the analysts highlighted several key opportunities:
• AI Services and Storage Monetization: Apple could generate an additional $15 billion in annual services revenue by charging for advanced AI features and expanded cloud storage. This would further boost the company’s already high-margin services business.
• China Strategy: Despite regulatory scrutiny, Apple’s partnership with Alibaba on AI is expected to help it tap into its large and growing user base in China.
• The 2027 iPhone Moment: Wedbush points to significant iPhone redesigns expected in 2027 — coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone — as a major catalyst for an “AI-enabled” device that could drive a new upgrade supercycle.
“We believe over the next few years Apple will be able to monetize the AI Services and storage features… as it starts to become the ‘consumer hub of AI’ technology for its global user base.” — Wedbush analysts
Broader Context for Investors
Apple has faced questions in recent quarters about iPhone sales growth and competition in AI from players like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. However, the company has been steadily integrating Apple Intelligence features across its ecosystem, and investors appear encouraged by the potential for meaningful revenue upside from these tools.
The new $400 target represents substantial upside from recent trading levels and reflects optimism that AI will not only defend Apple’s premium positioning but actively expand its services empire.
What This Means for Apple Stock
• Positive Catalyst: Analyst upgrades to Street-high targets often help sentiment and can attract momentum buyers.
• Valuation: At $400, the stock would trade at a premium multiple, but Wedbush’s thesis hinges on durable services growth rather than just hardware.
• Risks: Execution on AI features, regulatory hurdles (especially in China and the EU), and broader macroeconomic pressures on consumer spending remain watchpoints.
MacDailyNews Take: As we wrote last spring:
“Sub-$170 AAPL seems like an absolute gift to us.” — MacDailyNews, April 8, 2025
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President Trump invites CEOs of Apple, Exxon, Nvidia on diplomatic trip to China
U.S. President Trump is inviting CEOs from Apple, Nvidia, Exxon, Boeing, and other major companies to accompany him on his trip to China next week, Semafor reported on Thursday.
Executives from Qualcomm, Blackstone, Citigroup, and Visa are also on the invitation list, according to the report.
Reuters:
A person familiar with the matter confirmed that Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser was invited. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon will attend as long as the trip goes ahead as planned, said a source with knowledge of the matter.
Reuters was not able to confirm the full list of companies invited, but a different source said several CEOs received invitations on Wednesday evening.
In an interview with CNBC’s Jim Cramer, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said, “We should let the president announce whatever he decides to announce… If invited, it would be a privilege, it would be a great honor to represent the United States.”
The reporting comes as expectations swirl about possible deals during President Donald Trump’s visit next week to Beijing to meet with China’s leader Xi Jinping.
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg told Reuters in April the company was counting on the Trump administration to help unlock a long-awaited major order from China… that industry sources say could include 500 737 MAX jets, plus dozens of wide-body jets.
MacDailyNews Take: Hopes are high for a solid U.S.-China trade deal that delivers genuinely reciprocal trade.
America’s economy is already raring to go — resilient, innovative, and powered by AI-driven productivity gains, strong business investment, and years of pent-up demand. American ingenuity is locked and loaded. A smart agreement that opens markets, protects intellectual property, and levels the playing field would be pure rocket fuel.
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Apple’s camera-equipped AirPods enter advanced testing: A major leap toward AI-powered wearables
Apple is pushing deeper into the AI era with its most ambitious AirPods update yet. According to a new report from Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman, the company has reached late-stage development for new AirPods featuring built-in cameras, marking a significant milestone for what could become its first true AI-focused wearable device.
What’s Known So Far
Prototypes of these camera-equipped AirPods (likely positioned as a premium “AirPods Pro” or even “AirPods Ultra” model) have entered design validation testing (DVT) — the phase where internal testers use near-final hardware in real-world conditions. The earbuds feature cameras in both stems that are designed specifically for AI functionality, not for capturing photos or videos.
These low-resolution sensors will act as “eyes” for Apple’s enhanced Siri, feeding visual context about the user’s surroundings.
Potential capabilities include:
• Object and landmark recognition — Ask Siri what’s in front of you or for directions based on what the AirPods can see.
• Context-aware assistance — Real-time information about people, places, or items around you.
• Gesture and spatial awareness — Improved interaction and environmental understanding.
• Health and activity insights — Possibly enhanced sleep tracking or movement detection.
A small LED indicator is expected to light up when the cameras stream data to the cloud for processing, addressing some privacy considerations around always-on vision capabilities.
Why This Matters
This project represents Apple’s broader strategy to move beyond audio and into ambient computing. While the company is also reportedly working on smart glasses and even a wearable pendant, camera-equipped AirPods could serve as an earlier, more accessible entry point into AI wearables. They build on existing AirPods strengths — seamless integration with iOS, spatial audio, and health features — while adding the visual intelligence needed for next-generation Siri.
Originally eyed for a potential launch in the first half of 2026, the timeline now appears tied to advancements in Apple Intelligence and Siri upgrades expected later this year.
Privacy and Practical Concerns
Not everyone is excited. The idea of cameras in your ears raises understandable questions about always-listening, always-watching devices. Apple will likely emphasize on-device processing where possible and clear user controls, but this will be a key area to watch as the product nears release.
The Bigger Picture
Apple has long dominated the wireless earbuds market. Adding vision capabilities could widen the gap even further — turning everyday earbuds into intelligent companions that don’t just play music or take calls, but actually see and understand the world alongside you.
MacDailyNews Take: This feels like the next logical step after AirPods Pro’s health sensors and noise cancellation. We’re moving from passive audio devices to active AI assistants you wear all day.
What do you think? Would you wear camera-equipped AirPods for smarter Siri assistance, or does the privacy trade-off feel like a step too far?
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Attention investors: Apple’s MacBook Neo is bigger than you think
Apple unveiled its new budget-friendly laptop, the MacBook Neo, in March — welcome news for investors. Starting at $599 with a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, the device aims to make the Mac experience “even more accessible to millions of people around the world.”
The MacBook Neo could be the best reason yet to buy Apple stock.
Ben Gran for The Motley Fool:
For years, many Apple observers questioned whether the company could design a low-cost laptop that fit the brand’s premium standards. MacBook Neo seems to fit the bill — and overall Mac sales are up because of it.
According to the company’s most recent earnings report on April 30… the Mac category is showing strong growth, with sales up about 6% year over year.
On the April 30 earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook said that “the customer response to MacBook Neo has just been off the charts, with higher-than-expected demand.” The low-cost laptop seems to be achieving the strategic goal of attracting new customers who might have been reluctant to pay for higher-priced laptops. Cook also said that the company “set a March record for customers new to the Mac, partly due to the Neo.”
But this low-cost laptop isn’t the only reason to buy Apple stock. The company’s most recent quarterly revenue reached $111.2 billion, up 17% year over year, and its diluted earnings per share were up 22% year over year. Apple’s new product launches seem to be hitting the mark.
MacDailyNews Take: Plus, Apple just doubled MacBook Neo production!
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Rave sues Apple in five countries over App Store removal
Rave Inc., the developer of the popular cross-platform co-viewing app Rave, has filed antitrust lawsuits against Apple in the United States, Canada, Brazil, the Netherlands, and Russia. The company claims Apple improperly removed its app from the App Store to stifle competition with Apple’s own SharePlay feature.
The lawsuits, announced Thursday, challenge what Rave describes as Apple’s “unilateral and anticompetitive decision” to boot the app, which has surpassed 225 million downloads. Rave allows users on iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS devices to synchronously watch videos, movies, and TV shows together in real time while chatting or using voice communication.
According to the complaints, Apple’s action harms consumers by limiting choice in co-viewing services and raising switching costs between iPhone and rival smartphones. Rave alleges that its cross-platform functionality threatened Apple’s closed iOS ecosystem, prompting the removal to protect Apple’s dominance in smartphone co-viewing through its iPhone-only SharePlay service.
“Apple’s pretextual removal of Rave from the App Store has harmed consumers significantly by limiting choice and effectively preventing Apple customers from co-viewing and connecting with non-Apple customers,” said Michael Pazaratz, CEO of Rave, in a statement. “Apple’s actions denied users access to a product they enjoy, disrupted the communities built on Rave and impaired Rave’s ability to compete fairly based on the strength of its product.”
Pazaratz added that the case extends beyond Rave, warning that unchecked gatekeeper power by platforms like Apple discourages innovation among app developers. “As long as Apple’s ‘gatekeeper’ power remains unchecked, no developer operating within Apple’s ecosystem can ever be secure,” he said.
The move comes amid broader global scrutiny of Apple’s App Store policies, including ongoing disputes with developers and regulators over alleged monopolistic practices. Apple has not yet publicly commented on the new lawsuits.
Rave is seeking restoration of its app to the App Store in the relevant jurisdictions and remedies to promote fair competition for developers and greater choice for consumers.
MacDailyNews Take: Apple has not publicly commented on the removal or the new lawsuits. However, the company routinely enforces App Store guidelines on:
• Fraud or deceptive practices.
• Inadequate content moderation (especially for user-generated or shared content that could include explicit material, scams, or illegal content).
• User safety and privacy risks.
Independent reports and user discussions around the time of removal highlighted potential issues with Rave, including:
• Unmoderated public chat rooms.
• Reports of pornography, scams, and even child sexual abuse material (CSAM) concerns.
• Malware detections or security flags on other platforms (e.g., Windows Defender, Google Play Protect, Kaspersky, Bitdefender).
Apple’s Developer Program License Agreement gives it broad discretion to remove apps “with or without cause” to protect the ecosystem.
This is the same predictable playbook we’ve seen time and again: Developers flock to the App Store for its massive, high-spending user base, rock-solid security, and curated experience. Then, when Apple enforces rules — often for very good reasons — the rejected parties run to regulators and courts screaming monopoly. It’s not competition they want; it’s a free ride on Apple’s dime while demanding special treatment.
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Apple doubles MacBook Neo production, orders fresh batch of A18 Pro chips
Apple has been facing a welcome dilemma: surging demand for the MacBook Neo has far exceeded expectations. Hence, the company faced a pressing decision: (1) ramp up production or (2) allow its stock of A18 Pro chips to run out.
Wisely, Apple has chosen the former.
Apple has doubled its MacBook Neo production plans after the laptop’s runaway success, my sources tell me…
MacBook Neo is now seen as a legitimate alternative to Chromebooks, powered by Google’s ChromeOS, as well as low-end Windows laptops. The cheapest member of the MacBook series is likely to lure more companies and students into adopting the MacOS ecosystem, broadening Apple’s user base.
This unprecedented popularity left Apple with an important decision to make: It could sell out of the Neo, thus forgoing sales but preserving profit margins. Or order up a new batch and face a severe cut in gross margins amid escalating DRAM prices and a higher cost-base for the core processor.
Apple recently made its decision and opted to put more units of the Neo in customer hands.
As a result, it’s now asking suppliers to prepare capacity for 10 million units of the debut version of the Neo, up from an initial estimate of 5 million to 6 million, my sources tell me.
MacDailyNews Take: Smart move.
Take the margin hit (there’s certainly enough headroom built-in to absorb more expensive chips) and keep selling Macs like hotcakes, Apple! The company would be smart to play the long game in which more Mac users not only benefits Apple services in recurring fashion, but also creates halo sales of high-margin iPhones, iPads, AirPods, HomePods, Apple TVs, etcetera…
Resorting to just saying “sold out” of MacBook Neo units until the next model would be a huge mistake. – MacDailyNews, April 7, 2026
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Some iPhone owners could get up to $95 after Apple agrees to settle Apple Intelligence false advertising lawsuit
Owners of certain iPhones could receive cash payments of up to $95 from Apple following the company’s $250 million settlement of a class-action lawsuit over false advertising of its artificial intelligence features.
Apple heavily promoted new AI capabilities for Siri when it launched the iPhone 16 in 2024 as part of software updates it marketed as “Apple Intelligence,” but failed to deliver.
Kelvin Chan for Associated Press:
The company has been scrambling to keep up with tech rivals amid the AI boom but still hasn’t delivered on the Siri revamp two years later.
The lawsuit, filed on behalf of U.S. consumers in the San Francisco federal court for the Northern District of California, alleged that Apple deceived consumers with a marketing campaign that promoted features that did not yet exist and misled them into buying the devices.
Lawyers for the iPhone buyers asked a court for preliminary approval of the proposed $250 million settlement, according to a court filling. If approved by a judge, it would be one of the biggest ever for Apple.
The settlement covers about 37 million devices bought in the United States between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025, including all iPhone 16 models and the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Owners are eligible for a payment of at least $25 for each device, and that amount could go up to $95 depending on how many other claims are filed “and other factors,” the filing said.
Apple, based in Cupertino, California, was caught off-guard by the intense consumer interest in the Siri AI features. Buyers were angered after finding out that the new features would be released later than expected, the filing said.
They “would not have purchased the Eligible Devices or would have paid significantly less, had they known Enhanced Siri features were not available,” the filling said.
MacDailyNews Take: Again, Apple got off easy. It ends up being effective advertising, albeit false. $250 million is 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’s watchOS 26.5 will fix two frustrating Apple Watch bugs
Apple has seeded the Release Candidate for watchOS 26.5, and the update brings welcome relief for Apple Watch users dealing with two notable issues.
According to Apple’s release notes, watchOS 26.5 directly addresses the following bugs:
• Messages app fix: Resolves an issue where Messages on the Apple Watch could incorrectly fall back to SMS instead of using iMessage when paired with a dual-SIM iPhone. This should restore proper blue-bubble behavior and better integration for users with multiple phone lines.
• Workout app fix: Fixes a problem where audio alerts in the Workout app would fail to play if the paired iPhone wasn’t nearby. Runners, cyclists, and gym-goers relying on those motivational cues or pace alerts will appreciate the reliability boost.
The update is expected to arrive alongside iOS 26.5
When Can You Expect It?
With the Release Candidate now available to developers and public beta testers, Apple typically pushes the final public version to all compatible Apple Watch models within days to a week. Keep an eye on your Watch app for the over-the-air update notification.
Background and User Impact
These fixes target pain points that have annoyed segments of the Apple Watch user base — particularly dual-SIM professionals and those who frequently train without their iPhone close at hand. While not groundbreaking new features, addressing core reliability issues like messaging and workout feedback helps maintain the seamless ecosystem experience for which Apple is known.
MacDailyNews Take: Users have been vocal about various watchOS quirks in recent months, so this point release should provide some stability before attention turns fully to watchOS 27, expected to be unveiled at WWDC in June.
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Apple releases new AirPods Max 2 firmware
Apple this week rolled out a fresh firmware update for its premium over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max 2. The new build, version 8E258, follows closely on the heels of the 8E251 firmware that shipped just before the headphones’ April 1, 2026 launch.
What’s New?
As is typical with AirPods firmware updates, Apple has not provided detailed release notes. The company’s support documentation simply lists the update under “Bug fixes and other improvements.” While the exact changes are unknown, these incremental updates often address minor stability issues, refine audio performance, tweak noise cancellation or transparency modes, or improve battery efficiency and connectivity.
The AirPods Max 2, powered by Apple’s H2 chip (an upgrade from the original H1), already deliver impressive features including Adaptive Audio, Loud Sound Reduction, Voice Isolation, and enhanced noise cancellation. This firmware could further polish those experiences.
How to Update Your AirPods Max 2
Firmware updates for AirPods Max 2 happen automatically when the following conditions are met:
• Keep your AirPods Max 2 within Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
• Connect that device to Wi-Fi.
• Plug the AirPods Max 2 into power using a USB-C cable.
• Leave them connected for at least 30 minutes.
After the update completes, reconnect the headphones and check the firmware version in Settings > [Your AirPods Max 2] on your iOS device. If the update doesn’t apply, try restarting the headphones and repeating the process. Some users have reported faster updates when connecting directly to a Mac via USB-C.
Should You Update?
Yes. These updates are generally recommended for the best performance, reliability, and any under-the-hood optimizations Apple has prepared. If you’ve noticed any quirks with your AirPods Max 2 — such as occasional connectivity hiccups, battery drain, or audio glitches — this could be the fix.
MacDailyNews Note: The original AirPods Max (especially the USB-C version) remains on an older firmware branch, highlighting that this update is specific to the second-generation model with its H2 hardware.
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Apple removes additional Mac Studio and Mac mini memory configs as shortage worsens
Apple has removed additional desktop Mac models from its online store amid the ongoing global memory shortage. Mac mini configurations with 32GB and 64GB of RAM are no longer available, and the M3 Ultra Mac Studio with 256GB of memory has also been pulled from sale.
The M3 Ultra Mac Studio is now only offered in a 96GB memory configuration, with all higher-tier options eliminated. Both the M3 Mac Studio and M4 Max Mac Studio currently show delivery estimates of 9 to 10 weeks.
On the Mac mini side, the M4 Pro model is now capped at 48GB of memory after the 64GB option was removed. The base M4 Mac mini is limited to 16GB or 24GB configurations, with the 32GB option discontinued.
Last week, Apple removed the Mac mini with 256GB of SSD storage, leaving the 512GB model as the minimum option. That effectively raised the price of the Mac mini from $599 to $799. Apple also stopped accepting orders for some Mac Studio and Mac mini machines with higher amounts of RAM in March and April.
Apple CEO Tim Cook recently said that… Apple underestimated the demand for the Mac mini and the Mac Studio from customers looking for a machine to run AI and agentic tools locally. He said Apple also expects significantly higher memory costs in the months to come, so Apple is likely conserving supply by eliminating some configuration options. Global supply constraints caused by AI server demand have impacted the pricing of memory chips, leading to high prices and memory shortages.
MacDailyNews Take: Supply chain reality check in full effect.
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Apple seeks U.S. Supreme Court stay in ongoing Epic Games App Store commission battle
In the latest chapter of the long-running legal saga between Apple and Epic Games, the iPhone maker has filed an emergency application with the U.S. Supreme Court requesting a pause on proceedings that could force it to justify and potentially set a new commission rate on purchases made outside the App Store.
Background on the Dispute
The case stems from the landmark 2020-2021 Epic Games v. Apple trial. In 2021, a district court issued an injunction requiring Apple to allow developers to include links or buttons directing users to external purchasing options, bypassing the App Store’s in-app purchase system. Apple complied by updating its rules but continued to impose commissions (initially up to 27%) on those external transactions.
This led to a 2025 contempt ruling against Apple by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, which argued that charging fees violated the “spirit” of the injunction — even though the original order did not explicitly prohibit commissions. Apple has maintained compliance by implementing zero commissions on such link-outs while appealing.
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals later reversed the strict zero-commission requirement and remanded the case back to the district court to determine a “reasonable” commission rate Apple could charge. Apple is now challenging the contempt finding itself, arguing it was improper and prejudicial.
Apple’s Arguments to the Supreme Court
In its filing on May 4, 2026, Apple requests a stay of the Ninth Circuit’s mandate to prevent the remand proceedings from moving forward immediately. Key points include:
• The contempt designation is unwarranted because the 2021 injunction made no mention of commissions or fees.
• Proceeding under a “taint” of contempt would cause irreparable harm, including forcing Apple to disclose sensitive business information and litigate its core business model under a false premise.
• The injunction improperly applies worldwide to all U.S. App Store developers, not just Epic Games.
• Global regulators are closely watching the outcome, which could influence commission policies in other markets.
Apple has emphasized that it will continue operating under the current zero-commission structure for external purchases during any review, meaning no immediate harm to Epic or developers. The company has also indicated it plans a full petition for certiorari and suggested the current application could serve as that request if needed.
Epic’s Response and Next Steps
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney responded to the filing, highlighting Apple’s own admission in the documents that regulators worldwide are monitoring the case for potential precedent on commission rates.
The mandate sending the case back for fee calculations was set to take effect on May 5, 2026. If the Supreme Court grants the stay, the zero-fee status quo remains while the high court considers whether to hear the appeal. If denied, the district court will proceed to evaluate an appropriate commission rate.
This marks another escalation in a dispute that has already spanned years and multiple court levels. The outcome could have significant implications not only for Apple’s App Store revenue model but for app distribution and developer policies across the mobile ecosystem.
MacDailyNews Note: The Supreme Court is expected to act relatively quickly on the emergency stay request.
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Apple settles shareholder lawsuit over Siri AI vaporware for $250 million
Apple has reached a $250 million settlement to resolve a shareholder lawsuit stemming from the delayed rollout of key artificial intelligence upgrades to its Siri voice assistant.
The lawsuit, filed in 2024 by shareholder Peter Landsheft in U.S. federal court in California, accused Apple of misleading investors. It followed Apple’s high-profile announcements and advertising campaign at its 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference, where the company promised a suite of AI enhancements for Siri that would arrive with new iPhones that fall.
When the new iPhones launched without those features, plaintiffs claimed it harmed shareholders. Apple later pushed the major Siri AI overhaul to 2026. Executives have now confirmed the new capabilities will be unveiled at Apple’s developer conference next month.
Apple did not admit any wrongdoing in the settlement, which still requires court approval. In a statement, the company emphasized its progress on other AI features since launching Apple Intelligence in 2024:
“Apple has reached a settlement to resolve claims related to the availability of two additional features. We resolved this matter to stay focused on doing what we do best, delivering the most innovative products and services to our users.”
This settlement comes as Apple continues to play catch-up in the generative AI race while emphasizing a more privacy-focused, on-device approach with its Apple Intelligence suite. The company has rolled out numerous AI capabilities over the past year, even as the full Siri overhaul remains one of the most anticipated updates.
MacDailyNews Take: A slap on the wrist, Apple got off easy.
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 lands first-ever honors from the Tony Awards with a record 12 nominations
Apple this week received its first-ever nominations for the prestigious Tony Awards, leading with a record 12 nominations, including Best Musical for “Schmigadoon!,” and tying for the most-nominated musical of 2026. Co-produced by Apple TV, “Schimgadoon!” is inspired by the Apple TV series of the same name. The 2026 Tony Awards are presented by the Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing, and this year’s winners will be announced at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on Sunday, June 7.
In addition to Best Musical, “Schmigadoon!” landed Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical — Sara Chase; Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical — Ana Gasteyer; Best Direction of a Musical — Christopher Gattelli; Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre — Music & Lyrics, Cinco Paul; Best Book of a Musical — Cinco Paul; Best Orchestrations — Doug Besterman and Mike Morris; Best Choreography — Christopher Gattelli; Best Sound Design of a Musical — Walter Trarbach; Best Lighting Design of a Musical — Donald Holder; Best Costume Design of a Musical — Linda Cho; and Best Scenic Design of a Musical — Scott Pask.
These accolades are the latest honors for “Schmigadoon!”, including series wins at the Emmy Awards, recognition as an AFI Award TV Program of the Year, and honors from the Dorian TV Awards and ReFrame Stamp Awards. The series has also earned nominations from the Critics Choice Awards, Grammy Awards, Art Directors Guild Awards, American Society of Cinematographers Awards, Motion Picture Sound Editors Awards, Imagen Awards and many more. In addition to the Tony Award nods today, “Schmigadoon!” the musical has also been honored with nominations from the Drama Desk Awards, the Drama League Awards, the Outer Critics Circle Awards and the Chita Rivera Awards, among others.
From “Saturday Night Live’s” Lorne Michaels and based on the award-winning Apple Original series, the delightfully hilarious musical is directed by Tony Award winner Christopher Gattelli (“Death Becomes Her,” “Newsies”) with a book and Emmy Award-winning score by Cinco Paul (“Despicable Me,” “The Secret Life of Pets”). “Schmigadoon!” the musical is produced by Michaels, Micah Frank and Caroline Maroney on behalf of Broadway Video, and Christine Schwarzman and Megan O’Keefe on behalf of No Guarantees Productions. It made its Broadway debut at the Nederlander Theatre in April 2026, and is currently set to run through September 2026.
To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 816 wins and 3,498 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.
Apple landed 12 nominations for the 2026 Tony Awards, including:
“Schmigadoon!”
• Best Musical
• Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical — Sara Chase
• Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical — Ana Gasteyer
• Best Direction of a Musical — Christopher Gattelli
• Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre — Music & Lyrics, Cinco Paul
• Best Book of a Musical — Cinco Paul
• Best Orchestrations — Doug Besterman and Mike Morris
• Best Choreography — Christopher Gattelli
• Best Sound Design of a Musical — Walter Trarbach
• Best Lighting Design of a Musical — Donald Holder
• Best Costume Design of a Musical — Linda Cho
• Best Scenic Design of a Musical — Scott Pask
All episodes of the Emmy Award-winning series “Schmigadoon!” are now streaming on Apple TV.
“Schmigadoon!”
Welcome to Schmigadoon — the magical town where every day is a musical. Everybody has a song for everything and the only bridge out of town leads nowhere. When one couple accidentally wanders in, they discover the only escape is finding true love — which may or may not be with each other.
“Schmigadoon!” is a New York Times Critic’s Pick and an “uproarious, high-energy, delicious sundae.” Entertainment Weekly cheers, “Grade A! Rapturous Laughter! Two and a half hours of constant smiles!” Time Out raves, “Good Gosh! It’s big, joyous musical fun!” And Variety declares, “this irresistible musical turns the most skeptical curmudgeon into a walking heart-eye emoji.”
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.
MacDailyNews Take: Congrats to the cast and crew of “Schmigadoon!”
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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