Apple News

Apple has introduced a new AI-powered feature to Apple Music with the beta release of iOS 26.4: “Playlist Playground.” This tool allows users to generate custom playlists instantly using simple text prompts, marking a significant step forward in how subscribers discover and curate music on Apple’s streaming service.

Playlist Playground leverages Apple Intelligence to interpret natural language descriptions and automatically build tailored playlists. Instead of manually searching for songs or relying solely on algorithmic recommendations, users can describe exactly what they want — whether it’s a specific mood, activity, genre, era, or creative concept — and let the system do the work.

Apple provides several pre-set prompt examples to get users started, such as:
• “morning coffee music”
• “hip-hop party songs”
• “disco songs that defined the 1970s”

However, the real power lies in custom inputs. Users can enter virtually any idea, vibe, or scenario, and Apple Music will respond by generating a ready-to-play playlist of 25 songs, complete with an automatically created custom title.

How to Use Playlist Playground

Accessing the feature is straightforward in the Apple Music app on iOS 26.4:

1. Open the Apple Music app.
2. Navigate to the Library tab.
3. Tap the + button (or the new playlist creation icon, often in the upper-right corner) to start a new playlist.

If the Playlist Playground option doesn’t appear immediately, try restarting the app or your device, as some users have reported this helps load the feature (particularly since it ties into Apple Intelligence downloads after the beta update).

Once activated, enter your text prompt. The system quickly generates the playlist. From there, you can:

• Refine it further by adding more text prompts (e.g., “make it more upbeat” or “add more 80s synth”).
• Customize the playlist with your choice of cover art.
• Add or edit a description.
• Save, share, or add it to your profile just like any standard playlist.

The generated playlists integrate seamlessly into your library and can be enjoyed across devices.

This feature arrives as part of the iOS 26.4 beta, initially available to developers as of February 16, 2026, with a public beta following shortly after. The full release is expected in spring 2026. Playlist Playground is one of several enhancements coming to Apple Music in this update, including redesigned full-page animated artwork for albums and playlists, highlights for upcoming concerts near you, and other refinements.

It represents Apple’s push to bring more generative AI capabilities directly into its core apps, building on the Apple Intelligence framework introduced in previous updates. While rivals like Spotify have offered AI-driven playlist tools for some time, Playlist Playground gives Apple Music users a native, integrated experience without needing third-party workarounds (such as generating lists via ChatGPT and importing them).

In an era where personalized music discovery is key to retaining subscribers, Playlist Playground makes curation faster, more intuitive, and fun. Whether you’re looking for background tunes for work, a party vibe, nostalgic throwbacks, or something entirely unique, the feature promises to spark new listening experiences with minimal effort.

As the beta rolls out and feedback comes in, expect refinements before the spring launch. For now, developers and public beta participants can try it out and see how Apple Intelligence transforms playlist creation in Apple Music.

MacDailyNews Take: Beats Music is finally made whole.

Beats Music (launched in January 2014) featured a standout tool called “The Sentence”, which allowed users to generate custom playlists by constructing descriptive phrases in a Mad Libs-style format. Users would fill in blanks for elements like location, mood/feeling, who they were with (or a person/group vibe), and music genre or era — for example:

• “I’m at my computer & feel like going back in time with my inner child to vintage soul & funk”
• “I’m in the shower & feel like taking a selfie with my BFF to sounds of the 70s”

This would trigger an algorithm (powered by human-curated content and filters) to create a tailored, shuffle-style playlist. It combined mood/context-based track selection with Pandora-like streaming discovery, and it was widely praised as a fun, innovative way to find music without manual searching.

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In Apple’s upcoming tvOS 26.4 update the dedicated iTunes Movies and iTunes TV Shows apps will be fully removed from Apple TV devices, marking the final chapter in the long phase-out of legacy iTunes branding for video content.

The change, first spotted in the tvOS 26.4 developer beta released on February 16, 2026, consolidates all movie and TV show purchasing, renting, and viewing exclusively within the unified Apple TV app. Apple has been gradually migrating users to this single hub since late 2023, when the apps began redirecting purchases to the Apple TV app on tvOS 17.2, iOS 17.2, and iPadOS 17.2.

“Apple has been working to consolidate all movie and TV show viewing and buying to the TV app, so it’s all in one place,” the company stated in explaining the shift.

No Loss of Access to Purchased Content

Importantly, the removal does not affect users’ ability to access or play previously purchased or rented movies and TV shows. All owned content remains fully available and playable directly in the Apple TV app, with libraries intact and no migration required for existing purchases.

The standalone iTunes apps had lingered on Apple TV devices primarily to guide users during the transition and to provide continued access to iTunes Wish Lists for movies and TV shows. However, Apple recently began winding down wish lists entirely, sending emails to affected users warning that the feature would soon disappear and providing links to migrate individual items to the Apple TV app’s Watchlist feature.

Some users with extensive wish lists have expressed frustration over the need to manually migrate each item one by one via the emailed links.

Additional Changes in tvOS 26.4

Beyond the app removals, tvOS 26.4 introduces enhancements to audio handling:

• The Dolby Atmos immersive audio option in settings has been replaced with Spatial Audio.
• New audio output choices include converting to Dolby Digital 5.1, Stereo Only, or enabling Auto mode.
• A new Continuous Audio Connection option for HDMI output aims to address intermittent audio dropouts reported by some users with external sound systems, such as Sonos or AV receivers.

These audio improvements appear designed to deliver a more reliable and flexible listening experience across home theater setups.

The tvOS 26.4 beta is currently available to developers and public beta testers. Apple has indicated a full public release is planned for spring 2026, likely in March or April, following the typical beta testing cycle.

MacDailyNews Take: This update with the removal of the iTunes Movies and TV apps represents the latest step in Apple’s years-long effort to retire the iTunes brand for video content (following music in 2019), streamlining the experience for Apple TV users while reinforcing the central role of the Apple TV app in the ecosystem.

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Apple’s Car Key feature with a BMW (Image: BMW)

Toyota is rolling out support for Apple Wallet car keys, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to lock, unlock, and start select vehicles without a traditional key fob. The feature, first introduced by Apple in 2020, is now available on certain trims of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 in the United States, marking Toyota’s entry into Apple’s digital car key ecosystem.

The rollout was initially spotted by owners on social media platforms like Reddit, where a 2026 RAV4 owner confirmed the functionality in the Apple Wallet app. Reports from tech outlets such as MacRumors, 9to5Mac, and AppleInsider have verified the development, noting that Toyota’s implementation leverages Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology. This enables passive entry: users can approach the vehicle with their iPhone in their pocket or Apple Watch on their wrist, open the door, and start the engine seamlessly.

Apple’s Car Key feature, accessible via the Wallet app on compatible devices, supports secure sharing of keys with family or friends and includes conveniences like remote locking/unlocking in some cases. For Toyota vehicles, the system also benefits from Power Reserve, allowing access even if the iPhone battery dies (via a low-power NFC mode).

To use the feature, owners need:

• An iPhone 11 or newer (excluding iPhone SE models for full UWB passive entry) or an Apple Watch Series 6 or later.
• The latest iOS or watchOS versions.
• A Toyota Remote Connect subscription, priced at $15 per month after an included one-year free trial with new vehicle purchases.

Currently, support appears limited to select trims of the 2026 Toyota RAV4, with no confirmation yet on expansion to other 2026 Toyota models like the Camry, Corolla, or Highlander. Toyota’s official website lists the capability in the RAV4 specifications, suggesting broader availability may follow.

This move aligns with Apple’s ongoing efforts to expand Car Key compatibility, which already includes brands such as Audi, BMW, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and others. Toyota’s addition broadens options for the millions of iPhone users who own or are considering Toyota vehicles, particularly the popular RAV4 SUV.

The development follows earlier indications late last year that Toyota had been added to Apple’s backend support database, paving the way for this launch. Owners of eligible 2026 RAV4 models can check compatibility directly in the Wallet app or contact their dealership for setup instructions.

As automakers continue integrating with smartphone ecosystems, features like digital car keys are becoming a standard convenience, blending security, ease of use, and reduced reliance on physical fobs. Toyota’s rollout represents a significant step for the brand in embracing Apple-centric connectivity for its U.S. customers.

MacDailyNews Take: Welcome, Toyota!

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Joel Kinnaman and Kate Mara in “Imperfect Women,” premiering March 18th on Apple TV.

Apple TV on Wednesday released the trailer for “Imperfect Women,” a new psychological thriller starring and executive produced by Kerry Washington and Elisabeth Moss, and created for television by Annie Weisman, who also serves as showrunner. The eight-episode series will make its global debut on Apple TV with the first two episodes on Wednesday, March 18th, followed by new episodes every Wednesday through April 29th.

Based on Araminta Hall’s novel of the same name, “Imperfect Women” examines a crime that shatters the lives of a decades-long friendship of three women. The unconventional thriller explores guilt and retribution, love and betrayal, and the compromises we make that alter our lives irrevocably. As the investigation unfolds, so does the truth about how even the closest friendships may not be what they seem.

The ensemble cast starring alongside Emmy Award winners Washington and Moss also includes Kate Mara, Joel Kinnaman, Corey Stoll, Leslie Odom Jr., Audrey Zahn, Jill Wagner, Rome Flynn, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Violette Linnz, Indiana Elle, Jackson Kelly, Keith Carradine, Ana Ortiz, Wilson Bethel and Sherri Saum.

“Imperfect Women” is a co-production between 20th Television and Apple Studios. The series is created, showrun and executive produced by Weisman, marking her latest collaboration with Apple TV following the critically acclaimed dramedy “Physical.” The limited series is executive produced by Moss and Lindsey McManus, who initially optioned the book, via their production company Love & Squalor Pictures. Washington executive produces for her Simpson Street banner alongside Pilar Savone. Author Hall serves as executive producer along with writer Kay Oyegun. Lesli Linka Glatter (“Homeland,” “Love & Death”) serves as director and executive producer of episodes one, four and five.

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 704 wins and 3,259 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” and Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”

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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Berkshire Hathaway revealed on Tuesday a new stake in The New York Times, signaling a return to the media sector that Warren Buffett exited in 2020 after divesting the conglomerate’s newspaper holdings.

In its latest 13F filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Berkshire disclosed ownership of approximately 5.07 million New York Times shares, valued at $351.7 million as of December 31, 2025. The filing details the Omaha, Nebraska-based company’s U.S.-listed equity holdings at year-end, which represent the bulk of its stock portfolio.

During the fourth quarter of 2025, Berkshire also reduced its position in Apple — its largest equity holding — by about 4%, trimming roughly 10.3 million shares while keeping the stake valued around $62 billion. Additionally, it sold 77% of its Amazon.com shares (about 7.7 million shares).

The quarter represented the close of Warren Buffett’s 60-year tenure as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. Greg Abel assumed the chief executive role on January 1, 2026, with Buffett continuing as chairman.

The filing does not specify which team member — Buffett, Abel, or portfolio manager Ted Weschler — directed the investments. Portfolio manager Todd Combs departed in December 2025 to join JPMorgan Chase.

MacDailyNews Take: Holding $62 billion of Apple while taking a trim off the top for whatever purposes, signals continued confidence in Cupertino.

Apple and, indeed, the entire U.S. economy, are primed to roar in 2026! – MacDailyNews, January 27, 2026

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Starting in 2026, all Major League Soccer matches will stream on Apple TV.

All 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) matches will be available to stream for all Apple TV subscribers at no additional cost.

This season, fans can watch every regular-season match, the annual Leagues Cup tournament, the MLS All-Star Game, the Campeones Cup, the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, and more — all included with an Apple TV subscription. (The standalone MLS Season Pass subscription on the Apple TV app concluded at the end of the 2025 season.)

This season is too good to miss. Watch every MLS match on Apple TV. pic.twitter.com/0I4ESfCsuC

— Apple TV (@AppleTV) February 17, 2026

This new chapter of the Apple and MLS partnership builds on the momentum established over the past three seasons, and will continue to deliver MLS matches, studio shows, and VOD content in more than 100 countries and regions, offering fans a single destination to watch every MLS match — with no blackouts. The evolution further streamlines access to MLS for fans at a pivotal moment for soccer in North America, including as anticipation grows for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The move enhances value for fans and brings MLS alongside Apple TV’s acclaimed original series, films, documentaries, “Friday Night Baseball” doubleheaders, Formula 1 races in the U.S., and more. As part of the transition, an Apple TV subscription will be included as part of 2026 full-season ticket packages with MLS clubs. In addition to every live match, Apple TV subscribers will have access to studio programming along with a wide range of complementary on-demand content.

“We’re thrilled to bring MLS to more fans around the world next season on Apple TV,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, in a statement announcing the change. “Every match, all in one place, alongside incredible Apple Originals — it’s a win for fans everywhere.”

“Our partnership with Apple has always been about innovating for our fans,” said Don Garber, Major League Soccer’s commissioner, in a statement. “Bringing every MLS match to Apple TV takes that vision to the next level by making it easier than ever for fans everywhere to watch, connect, and be part of the game.”

2025 marked Major League Soccer’s 30th season, underscoring continued expansion and sustained growth across the league. Strong performance across viewership, attendance, and digital and social platforms highlights MLS’s growing presence throughout North America and beyond. Fueled by passionate supporters and the global appeal of stars such as Lionel Messi and Son Heung-Min, the league is deepening fan engagement and solidifying its position as a leading sports property on the world stage.

Apple TV offers subscribers an array of thrilling dramas, epic sci-fi, feel-good comedies, groundbreaking documentaries, kids and family entertainment, as well as live sports. Apple TV is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. Since launching in 2019, Apple TV has expanded its deep library of hundreds of exclusive Apple Originals, with thousands of hours of premium programming across genres and brand-new releases weekly. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have earned 640 wins and 2,872 award nominations and counting.

The 2026 MLS regular season starts this weekend on February 21, 2026 (with “MLS is Back” opening matches spanning February 21-22). The season runs through November 7 (Decision Day), followed by playoffs.For the most up-to-date details or to subscribe, check the Apple TV app or tv.apple.com/mls. Enjoy the season!
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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 stock (AAPL) is on the rise. The stock closed up significantly from the previous close. It opened around $258 and reached a high of $266.29, closing at $263.88, marking a gain of 3.17% (or +$8.10) from the prior close of $255.78.

In after-hours trading, it hovered around $264 with minor additional gains.

This rebound follows recent sell-offs tied to concerns over AI feature delays (like Siri upgrades) and U.S. FTC scrutiny over Apple News’ leftward slant.

Key coverage highlights:

• Analysts like Wedbush’s Dan Ives called the prior selloff “unwarranted,” reiterating an outperform rating and $350 price target, emphasizing Apple’s AI potential and upcoming products.

• Reports note the stock recovering amid broader market volatility, with positive sentiment from bullish calls offsetting worries about rising memory costs and AI timelines.

• Broader headlines mention Apple’s push into AI-powered hardware (e.g., smart glasses, pendants, enhanced AirPods), which may be contributing to renewed investor interest.

Overall, today’s performance shows a strong intraday and closing gain, positioning Apple stock as a leader in the tech rebound.

MacDailyNews Take: What’s not to love about the profitability of the tag-team combo of Gurman seeding doubt vs. Ives boosterism of Apple stock? Churn that thing like butter and rinse, lather, and repeat!

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“Apple Glasses” concept designed by Martin Hajek for iDrop News

Apple is speeding up development of three new AI-focused wearable devices, including smart glasses, as part of its push into artificial intelligence-powered hardware.

The company is intensifying efforts on smart glasses, a compact AI pendant that can clip onto clothing or be worn as a necklace, and AirPods enhanced with advanced AI features, Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman reports Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the initiatives. Each of these products centers on a revamped LLM Siri digital assistant, which will leverage visual context from built-in cameras to perform tasks and provide more intelligent responses.

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The AirPods and pendant are envisioned as simpler offerings, equipped with lower-resolution cameras designed to help the AI work rather than for taking photos or videos. The glasses, meanwhile, will be more upscale and feature-rich.

The company is preparing a version of the assistant for iOS 27, due later this year, that will feature a chatbot-like interface. Apple will rely on underlying models co-developed with Alphabet Inc.’s Google.

The smart glasses are planned to be positioned as an advanced offering in the company’s AI hardware lineup, intended to compete with Meta’s camera-equipped eyewear. They would include a high-resolution camera capable of capturing photos and video.

Apple has made significant progress in recent months on its glasses, code-named N50, and has recently distributed a broader set of prototypes within its hardware engineering division. The company is targeting the start of production as early as December, ahead of a public release in 2027.

Like most of Meta’s current offerings, the glasses won’t include a display. Instead, the interface will rely on speakers, microphones and cameras — letting users make phone calls, access Siri, take actions based on surroundings, play music and take photos. Apple aims to differentiate the product in two key areas: build quality and camera technology… Apple decided to develop its own frames in-house in a variety of sizes and colors.

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MacDailyNews Take: While we’re most interested in Apple’s future-gen smart glasses with augmented reality displays, but this first step will be important. Everything that’s coming hinges on Siri – precariously, given the long-neglected state of Siri currently. We do continue to hear good things – Very Good Things – about LLM Siri from our little birdies.

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Apple’s rumored Face ID-powered video doorbell continues to spark excitement among smart home enthusiasts, with fresh reports highlighting why privacy-focused automatic unlocking could make it a standout hit in 2026.

Recent coverage from 9to5Mac emphasizes that this device — part of Apple’s broader 2026 Home product lineup — promises hands-free entry by scanning residents’ faces and wirelessly triggering compatible smart locks, much like unlocking an iPhone. The key advantage? Apple’s emphasis on privacy: biometric data processed locally via the Secure Enclave chip, end-to-end encryption through HomeKit Secure Video, and no cloud sharing of sensitive face data—positioning it as a compelling alternative amid ongoing scrutiny of competitors like Ring and Nest.

Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman first detailed the concept in late 2024, describing a smart doorbell with advanced facial recognition that connects to deadbolt locks for seamless resident access. Updates in early 2026 suggest it’s advancing alongside other Apple Home items, including a refreshed HomePod mini, a dedicated Face ID-equipped home hub with Apple Intelligence support, and indoor security cameras.

The doorbell would likely include core features such as HD video, motion detection, two-way audio, night vision, and deep HomeKit integration for scenes, automations, and familiar face recognition alerts. It could work with existing third-party HomeKit locks (from brands like Yale, Schlage, or Level) or potentially launch bundled with a partner for plug-and-play simplicity.

As Apple ramps up its smart home ambitions this year, the Face ID doorbell stands out for blending effortless convenience with top-tier security — turning “welcome home” into a truly biometric experience.

While Apple has yet to confirm details or a firm launch date (likely mid-to-late 2026), the buzz is building. For Apple ecosystem users tired of codes, keys, or privacy trade-offs, this could redefine front-door intelligence.

MacDailyNews Take: We’ve been holding off on things like video doorbells due to privacy concerns, so we’re hoping Apple is going to release one sooner than later!

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Apple is poised to launch its most affordable MacBook yet, potentially starting at just $599. This long-rumored device, aimed at students, families, and budget-conscious users, could disrupt the dominance of Chromebooks and low-end Windows craptops with its blend of Apple design, ecosystem integration, and competitive pricing.

According to multiple reports, the entry-level MacBook—internally codenamed J700 — is expected to debut at an Apple event as early as March 4, 2026.

This timeline aligns with Apple’s traditional spring announcements, where it often unveils updates to its iPad and Mac lines. The laptop’s launch comes at a time when rising component costs, particularly for RAM and storage, have pushed prices higher across the industry, making Apple’s ability to hit a sub-$800 price point all the more impressive.

At the heart of this budget MacBook is the A18 Pro chip, the same powerful processor that debuted in the iPhone 16 Pro models.

This would mark the first time Apple has used an A-series chip in a Mac, a strategic choice that allows for impressive single-core performance comparable to higher-end M3 and M4 chips, while keeping costs down.

Users can expect solid capabilities from the A18 Pro for everyday tasks like web browsing, research, document editing, and light creative work, though it would likely lag in intensive multi-core operations such as video rendering.

The device will most certainly support Apple Intelligence features, ensuring access to AI-driven tools without needing a premium model.

The base configuration is rumored to include 8GB of unified RAM and 256GB of storage, which should suffice for basic needs but reflects the compromises made to achieve the low price.

Battery life is another highlight, with estimates suggesting 24 hours or more of usage on a single charge, thanks to the efficiency of the A18 Pro silicon.

On the display front, Apple is reportedly opting for a 12.9-inch LCD panel. This screen will offer sharp visuals but with reduced brightness (around 500 nits or less) and without the wide P3 color gamut, prioritizing affordability over top-tier quality.

Key compromises on the display to keep costs low include:

• Standard LCD technology — No mini-LED backlighting, no OLED (which is reserved for future high-end MacBook Pros), and no ProMotion adaptive refresh rate (sticking to a traditional 60Hz).

• Lower brightness — Expected around 500 nits or less (compared to 500+ nits on MacBook Air with better sustained performance and anti-reflective coatings).

• No wide P3 color gamut — Colors will be accurate but narrower than the vibrant, cinema-grade gamut on premium Macs, aligning more closely with entry-level iPads.

• Resolution and pixel density — While exact figures aren’t confirmed in leaks, it should deliver sharp Retina-level clarity (likely in the 2560×1600 range or similar) suitable for macOS scaling, but without the extra sharpness or HDR support found on higher-tier models.

The overall design is expected to maintain Apple’s premium aesthetic, featuring an aluminum chassis crafted via a new, faster manufacturing process that helps cut production costs without sacrificing durability. Adding a fun twist to the lineup, the MacBook is expected to come in vibrant colors including possibilities such as light yellow, light green, blue, and pink, alongside classic options like silver and space gray.

This colorful approach echoes the playful designs of past iMacs and could appeal to younger users and schools looking for engaging tech.

Ports and connectivity details remain speculative, but expectations point to limited options — possibly a couple of USB-C ports and a headphone jack — to keep the form factor slim and costs low. The laptop’s size is described as slightly under 13 inches, making it portable and ideal for on-the-go use.

Industry analysts’ consensus predicts strong demand, with the device potentially accounting for up to 25% of Apple’s total Mac sales in 2026, shipping between 5.5 million and 8 million units annually.

This Mac sales surge could help Apple counter the growing popularity of Chromebooks in education, where affordability and simplicity reign supreme.

While these details are based on leaks and supply chain reports, Apple’s track record suggests the final product could exceed expectations. If the rumors hold true, this MacBook represents a significant shift for Apple, broadening access to the superior macOS, and potentially expanding its user base in emerging markets.

MacDailyNews Take: Hopefully, well see it as soon as March 4th!

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Wedbush analysts, led by Dan Ives, describe Apple’s recent share-price drop as “unwarranted.” They contend that investor fears about possible delays in the company’s AI rollout — particularly for the long-promised and oft-delayed LLM Siri — are overblown.

In a Tuesday research note, Ives told clients that the stock’s recent weakness stems from concerns that highly anticipated AI capabilities tied to Siri could face postponements. This comes after what he termed a year-long “soap opera” surrounding perceptions of Apple’s missing and/or unclear AI strategy.

Sam Boughedda for Investing.com:
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Wedbush believes the focus should be on Apple “getting its AI strategy right,” adding that advanced features targeted for this summer “still appear on target.”

Ives stressed that the current situation is “way different” from last year’s missteps, citing Apple’s Google Gemini partnership, new external AI leadership and a recognition inside the company that its revamped Siri architecture is one of the most consequential technology rollouts in its history.

“The time is now for Apple to accelerate its AI efforts,” Wedbush wrote.

Wedbush estimates AI monetisation could add $75 to $100 per share over the coming years.

Ives also said developers and consumers are “waiting patiently” for the enhanced Siri release targeted for spring, calling it “Apple’s answer to ChatGPT and Perplexity.” He added that an AI-driven subscription service is expected by the autumn.

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MacDailyNews Take: Ives reiterated his “Outperform” (Buy) rating and $350 twelve-month price target on Apple.

Apple stock (AAPL) is worth the same today as it was on Christmas Day 2024. It's a leadership issue, or rather, a lack thereof."#DeerInTheHeadlights #TimCook pic.twitter.com/d4mHJJgYFk

— MacDailyNews (@MacDailyNews) February 17, 2026

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A new video podcast experience enabled by HLS technology lets users switch between watching and listening, move to a horizontal full display, as well as download videos for offline viewing.

Apple today announced a transformative update coming to Apple Podcasts this spring that will bring advanced video podcast capabilities to the app. This enhanced video podcast experience uses Apple’s industry-leading HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology to set a new standard that empowers podcast creators with unprecedented control and monetization opportunities while delivering the highest-quality viewing experience for users.

“Twenty years ago, Apple helped take podcasting mainstream by adding podcasts to iTunes, and more than a decade ago, we introduced the dedicated Apple Podcasts app,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, in a statement. “Today marks a defining milestone in that journey. By bringing a category-leading video experience to Apple Podcasts, we’re putting creators in full control of their content and how they build their businesses, while making it easier than ever for audiences to listen to or watch podcasts.”

In the Apple Podcasts app, users will be able to switch seamlessly between watching and listening to shows, making the experience of discovering and viewing video podcasts as simple and enjoyable as listening to audio podcasts has always been. Users can watch video from within the app and move to horizontal full display, as well as download videos to watch offline. And automatic quality adjustment powered by HLS technology ensures smooth playback across network conditions, delivering the best possible experience whether listeners are on Wi-Fi or a cellular connection. Video episodes will integrate with existing features Apple Podcasts users already love, including personalized recommendations and editorial curation on the New tab and in Category pages.

The app’s enhanced video podcast capabilities give creators more control over their content and deliver the highest-quality video experience for users.

The new video podcast experience empowers creators. Creators distribute through participating hosting providers and ad networks, maintaining complete control of their content and monetization. Acast; ART19, an Amazon company; Triton’s Omny Studio; and SiriusXM, inclusive of SiriusXM Media, AdsWizz, and Simplecast, are supporting HLS video at launch, with additional providers to join in the future. For the first time, creators can dynamically insert video ads — including host-read spots — unlocking access to the broader video advertising market while maintaining full creative control. Video integrates seamlessly into existing shows without disrupting followers or downloads, and creators can monetize through sponsorships and dynamic advertising. Apple does not charge hosting providers or creators to distribute podcasts on Apple Podcasts, whether via traditional RSS/MP3 or HLS video. Apple will charge participating ad networks an impression-based fee for the delivery of dynamic ads in HLS video on Apple Podcasts starting later this year.

“Apple Podcasts is synonymous with podcasting itself. Bringing video to the platform is a defining moment — expanding what’s possible for creators, advertisers, and the medium as a whole,” said Greg Glenday, Acast’s CEO, in a statement. “We are proud to help lead this evolution, unlocking new audiences and revenue for Acast creators and a premium new canvas for brand storytelling. This integration reinforces our position as a vital growth engine for modern podcast businesses. We’re ensuring that no creator or advertiser leaves revenue or reach on the table.”

“Video is the next chapter for podcasting. Simplifying audio distribution and empowering creators with flexible monetization solutions are what ART19 was built on, and now video deserves that same experience,” said Geoff Mattei, ART19’s CEO, in a statement. “Working with Apple Podcasts to bring video distribution to publishers is a significant moment for creators who’ve been waiting for this.”

“Podcasting has evolved leaps and bounds over the past decade, and this innovation from Apple helps to keep the integrity of what makes the medium so special, while enhancing video and audio with new capabilities as the two formats continue to converge,” said Scott Walker, SiriusXM’s chief advertising revenue officer, in a statement. “For publishers, marketers, and creators, HLS video on Apple Podcasts brings a fresh opportunity to grow their businesses. As a leader in podcasting that has championed an open ecosystem approach, we’re thrilled to see a major player like Apple continue to advance the podcasting industry and support the advertising community.”

“Video is becoming an increasingly important way audiences engage with audio content, and Apple’s move into this space marks a meaningful step forward,” said Sharon Taylor, Triton Digital’s chief revenue officer, in a statement. “An open approach that enables publishers to retain control over their audiences, advertising, and measurement — while expanding access to content across formats — supports long-term growth and greater choice for listeners.”

Podcast hosting providers and podcast creators can learn more about how to enable HLS video on Apple Podcasts, as well as how to use Apple products and tools to capture, produce, and share exceptional video podcast episodes at podcasters.apple.com.

The addition of HLS video podcasts builds on the incredible experience Apple Podcasts already offers in more than 170 countries and regions. As a dedicated app designed specifically for podcasts, Apple Podcasts allows users to explore millions of shows across hundreds of categories and customize their listening and viewing experience with features like Enhance Dialogue mode, playback speeds from 0.5x to 3x, automatically created chapters, timed links, and transcripts across over 125 million episodes in 13 languages. Listeners can also directly support creators through premium subscriptions with benefits like exclusive content and ad-free listening.

MacDailyNews Note: Starting today, HLS video is available for testing in beta versions of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4. The functionality will come to iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro users, as well as via Apple Podcasts on the web this spring. Apple’s podcast catalog is available across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, CarPlay, Vision Pro, and on the web, at podcasts.apple.com.

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In a blockbuster deal announced on February 17, 2026, industrial conglomerate Danaher Corp has agreed to acquire medical technology firm Masimo Corp for $9.9 billion, including debt. The transaction, which values Masimo at $180 per share — a hefty 38.3% premium over its recent closing price — could have far-reaching implications beyond the diagnostics sector, particularly for Apple, which has been locked in a protracted legal feud with Masimo over pulse oximetry patents.

Masimo, known for its innovative pulse oximeters that measure blood oxygen levels non-invasively, has been a thorn in Apple’s side since 2020. The Irvine, California-based company accused Apple of infringing on its patents related to health monitoring technology integrated into the Apple Watch. This dispute escalated to the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), which in late 2023 ruled in Masimo’s favor, leading to a temporary import ban on certain Apple Watch models equipped with blood oxygen sensors. Apple was forced to disable the feature in new U.S. sales to comply, while appealing the decision and exploring workarounds. The legal wrangling has cost Apple millions in legal fees and disrupted its wearable strategy, with ongoing appeals and countersuits adding uncertainty to one of its fastest-growing product lines.

Enter Danaher, a Washington, D.C.-based powerhouse with a market cap exceeding $150 billion, far dwarfing Masimo’s roughly $7 billion valuation. Danaher, which specializes in life sciences, diagnostics, and environmental technologies, views the acquisition as a strategic bolt-on to bolster its diagnostics portfolio amid broader industry headwinds like U.S. drug pricing reforms and potential tariffs. By absorbing Masimo, Danaher gains access to cutting-edge sensor technologies that could integrate with its existing tools for hospital and clinical settings.

For Apple, this shift in Masimo’s ownership could prove transformative. Under Danaher’s umbrella, Masimo’s aggressive litigation stance might soften. Large conglomerates like Danaher often prioritize cross-industry partnerships and licensing deals over prolonged courtroom battles, especially when they involve non-core consumer tech applications. Analysts speculate that Danaher could negotiate a settlement or licensing agreement with Apple, allowing the Cupertino company to reinstate the blood oxygen feature without further infringement claims. This would not only resolve the ITC ban but also free up Apple’s resources to innovate in health tech, a key differentiator for the Apple Watch against competitors like Samsung and Fitbit.

Moreover, Danaher’s scale and diversified operations — spanning from water purification to biotech — might de-emphasize Masimo’s consumer-facing patent enforcement, focusing instead on enterprise healthcare solutions. If the deal closes as expected later in 2026, pending regulatory approvals, it could mark the end of an era of hostility, paving the way for collaborative advancements in wearable health monitoring.

While the acquisition’s primary driver is Danaher’s growth ambitions, its ripple effects on Apple’s legal landscape underscore how mergers in medtech can reshape tech rivalries. Apple shares ticked up slightly in early trading following the news, reflecting investor optimism about a potential detente. As the deal progresses, all eyes will be on whether this $9.9 billion move finally pulses new life into Apple’s smartwatch ambitions.
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MacDailyNews Take: Could be great news for Apple and Apple Watch owners who use its blood oxygen monitoring capability!

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