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Apple TV 4K Second Generation Introduces New Liquid Glass Feature

On Monday, Apple unveiled tvOS 26, the latest version of its operating system for Apple TV. However, it’s important to note that this update will only be available on newer models of the device. The new tvOS 26 introduces a fresh user interface inspired by Apple’s “Liquid Glass” design philosophy. This innovative design utilizes real-time rendering to produce a translucent appearance that adjusts based on its environment.

While the update is compatible with hardware that has supported previous versions, such as the Apple TV HD and all generations of Apple TV 4K, only those using the second-generation Apple TV 4K, released in 2021, will experience the full benefits of the redesigned app. Apple has not clarified why earlier models will miss out on these features, but it seems likely that the advanced processing capabilities needed for the Liquid Glass design limit its functionality on older devices. Beyond the aesthetic upgrades, tvOS 26 will enhance user experience with improved profile switching, updates to FaceTime and Contact Posters, and an enriched Apple Music Sing experience that allows iPhone microphone support. Developers can begin testing the beta version of tvOS 26 starting on June 9.

However, both Apple and industry sources, such as AppleInsider, strongly advise against installing beta software on primary devices or any hardware that is considered essential. This caution is due to the potential risk of software incompatibility and the possibility of data loss. Testers are encouraged to use secondary or non-critical devices for beta installations and to ensure they back up important data before proceeding with any updates.

iPadOS 26 Makes File Management Efficient and User-Friendly

Apple’s WWDC 2025 introduced significant enhancements to the Files app in iPadOS 26, transforming it into a far more functional tool. Previously, while the Files app served as a means to manage documents and folders, it was not particularly user-friendly and felt quite basic in its capabilities.

One of the notable shortcomings of the earlier version was the List view, which lacked flexibility. Users couldn’t adjust the column sizes, making it difficult to view essential information alongside document names.

Additionally, navigating through different folders was cumbersome, as users could only access the contents of a single folder at a time. Thankfully, these issues are set to improve.

With the updates in iPadOS 26, the List view now features adjustable, sortable columns for key details such as Date Modified, Kind, and Size. Users can resize these columns according to their preferences, making it easier to find specific information without clutter.

This enhancement aligns the Files app more closely with the experience Mac users enjoy in Finder. Another impactful change is the new collapsible folders feature.

Users will now be able to navigate through nested folders while keeping the contents of the parent folder in view. This improvement significantly streamlines navigation and enhances usability.

Moreover, the Files app introduces new customization options that can sync across devices. Users can personalize their folders with custom colors, icons, and even emojis.

Additionally, dragging any folder from Files into the Dock allows for quicker access, catering to power users. These updates arrive alongside other productivity enhancements in iPadOS 26, including a revamped window management system that brings iPad closer in functionality to macOS.

Every Mac Game Apple Teased During WWDC 25 Event

Apple’s latest Games app was a highlight of this year’s WWDC, marking a strong initiative towards enhancing gaming on Mac. The app features impressive graphics upgrades and promises a selection of new titles, some of which may actually arrive as scheduled. During the keynote on Monday, Apple showcased the new app, Apple Games, designed to serve as a comprehensive hub for gaming across its devices.

It will include titles from Apple Arcade as well as third-party games. Additionally, the app introduces a new Play Together feature and boasts a dedicated Library tab for easier navigation. Another significant announcement was made regarding macOS Tahoe, which will include Metal 4.

This upgrade aims to enhance the gaming experience with advanced graphics capabilities and improved rendering technologies, such as MetalFX Frame Interpolation and MetalFX Denoising. These advancements promise smoother visuals and quicker frame rates, catering to gamers’ desire for high-quality performance. Apple also revealed a lineup of games slated for macOS Tahoe, including noteworthy titles such as Crimson Desert, Cyberpunk 2077, and HITMAN World of Assassination.

However, this list does not encompass all upcoming games. Notably, *Sniper Elite 5* is expected to debut on Mac, iPhone, and iPad in early 2026. Interestingly, *Dead Island 2* made another appearance in the WWDC Games hype graphic for the second consecutive year, yet it still lacks a confirmed release date.

Meanwhile, *Cyberpunk 2077* remains absent from announcements. Additionally, the extraction looter-shooter game *Escape from Duckov* is also on its way to both the Mac App Store and Steam, though its release date has yet to be specified.

William Gallagher: Expert Insights and Analysis on Current Trends and Events

Apple has recently launched the initial developer beta versions of iOS 26, macOS 26, and other software. While the excitement surrounding new features is palpable, it is crucial to approach these beta versions with caution. Despite the allure of exploring the latest advancements, using beta software can lead to significant issues, including device malfunctions and potential data loss. Opting to install beta software can put your devices at risk.

Users may encounter various bugs, instability, and performance problems that are often innate to early testing versions. As such, it is wise to think carefully before committing to these new updates, especially if you rely on your devices for daily tasks. Instead of rushing into the beta testing realm, consider letting others take on that risk. Many users will certainly be enthusiastic about trying out the beta versions and could provide valuable feedback about any issues.

You can benefit indirectly from their experiences while waiting for the stable release, which is generally more reliable and user-friendly. In the tech world, patience is a virtue. By holding off on installing developer betas, you preserve both your device’s functionality and your personal data. Once the public version of the software releases, it’s typically better refined and comes without the dangers associated with unstable beta versions.

Embracing a wait-and-see approach can protect your devices and ensure a smoother experience when the full release is made available to everyone. Take a moment to reflect before diving in; sometimes, the best choice is to simply wait.

Warning: Beta Versions of iOS 26, macOS 26, and iPadOS 26 May Cause Device Malfunctions

Apple has recently launched the first developer beta versions of iOS 26, macOS 26, and several other updates. While there’s a lot of excitement surrounding these new releases, it’s crucial to recognize that they can cause issues with devices, including potential data loss. Fortunately, you can avoid these risks. Currently, it seems that every application developer is eager to download and install iOS 26 and other beta versions for testing.

Developers often utilize separate devices solely for this purpose to prevent interruptions in their daily operations. Although a test device might face setbacks during the beta phase, which can be inconvenient, it usually isn’t critical. In contrast, if your primary iPhone, Mac, or iPad fails, it becomes essential, as you could lose important data unless you’ve maintained regular backups. At *AppleInsider*, we regularly test new software, but we’ve had our share of misfortunes.

One writer experienced a near-permanent failure of their iPad while experimenting with the beta. Although they eventually managed to restore it, the process took several days and numerous resets. Similarly, problems with macOS can arise from updates, particularly with RAID driver installations. Betas, especially early ones, can be unstable.

While bricking a device is uncommon, it does happen, and losing access to vital hardware or data can be disastrous. On Macs, the situation has become complex compared to previous versions; you now need to prepare an external drive beforehand to troubleshoot issues effectively. This message isn’t just for developers; it’s also for those who may not fully understand the risks. Friends or acquaintances might face issues with apps after installing beta software, as the new operating system can create compatibility problems that affect various applications.

Developers are advised to test their software ahead of the public release, but many may not make the necessary adjustments in time. Ultimately, the new features promised by Apple’s updates are enticing, but the risks associated with beta installations outweigh the benefits for most users. It’s wise to wait for the official release to enjoy these enhancements without the associated stress.

macOS 26 Tahoe App Enables iPhone Calling Directly from Your Mac Device

Apple has introduced the Phone app to macOS 26 Tahoe, facilitating the ability to make phone calls using your Mac while connected to your iPhone. This addition is part of Apple’s effort to enhance Continuity features, which were expanded in 2024 with iPhone Mirroring in iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia.

Prior to this update, users could not place calls on their iPhone through their Mac, which often meant needing to have the mobile device close by to manage calls. This limitation was inconvenient for users who rely on their Macs for various tasks and found it frustrating to switch between devices to make or receive phone calls.

With the arrival of macOS 26 Tahoe, the integration between iPhone and Mac has improved, allowing users to stay focused on their work without constantly reaching for their iPhones. The Phone app will enable call placement directly from the Mac using the iPhone’s connection.

It’s important to note that this feature pertains to standard phone calls made through the iPhone and not FaceTime calls, which were already supported on the Mac. The Phone app in macOS 26 Tahoe mirrors the features of the iOS counterpart, including a new unified view that displays Recents, Favorites, and Voicemails.

Additionally, the app includes innovative functionalities such as Call Screening for managing unknown callers and Hold Assist to avoid listening to hold music. Users can also directly enter specific phone numbers to make calls rather than relying on contacts or recent calls.

When receiving calls, users will see a notification pop up in the top right corner of their Mac displays, with options to answer or hang up, along with Contact Posters for the other participants if available. Furthermore, the integration extends to Live Activities, which are displayed in the Mac’s menu bar, allowing users to easily track deliveries or orders via iPhone Mirroring, enhancing convenience without needing to check the iPhone physically.

Overall, these updates significantly improve the synergy between the iPhone and Mac, promoting a more efficient workflow for users.

macOS Tahoe: The Final Major Update for Intel-Based Macs

At the recent WWDC keynote, Apple quietly confirmed that macOS Tahoe will mark the end of support for Intel-based Macs. Many, including myself, initially speculated that support would last until September 2025.

However, the reality shifted when Marko Zivkovic uncovered an early compatibility list revealing that many Intel hardware models would no longer be supported. It has become increasingly evident that the era of Intel-powered Macs is drawing to a close.

While Apple may continue to provide security updates for several more years, the timeline for support is shrinking. Most users will likely move on to newer hardware within the next few years, even if some retain their Intel Macs for longer than expected.

During the recent State of the Platform discussion, reactions on social media ranged from shock to sadness as the announcement settled in. The last Intel Mac models were released in 2020, meaning full support for those devices will continue through September 2026.

There are some older models still in use, but they are far fewer in number. Intel Macs that have been cut off from official support, particularly the original cheese grater Mac Pro towers, have historically managed to run modern operating systems through OpenCore.

However, with the upcoming release of macOS 26 in September 2025, challenges are anticipated for these users. This is primarily due to every remaining supported Intel Mac including a T2 chip, which complicates the process of running the new OS on older machines.

As the transition to all Apple Silicon code approaches with macOS 27 in September 2026, the operating system will likely shed Intel code entirely, potentially even eliminating Rosetta 2. The swift removal of PowerPC support from Mac OS X serves as a reminder that change is often rapid within Apple’s ecosystem.

The future seems poised for a new era without Intel Macs.

Apple Introduces Clear Icons Featuring Innovative Liquid Glass Design

Apple’s approach to icon design has evolved significantly, recently culminating in the introduction of a new aesthetic called Liquid Glass. This was highlighted during the 2025 WWDC keynote, where the term was frequently mentioned. Liquid Glass represents Apple’s latest design language, aiming for a cohesive look across all its operating systems—including macOS, watchOS, visionOS, tvOS, iPadOS, and iOS. While the design may vary slightly across platforms, the introduction of Liquid Glass creates a more unified experience.

Users will first encounter this new design on their iPhones when iOS 26 launches in Fall 2025. But what exactly is Liquid Glass? According to Apple, it is a “translucent material” that reflects and refracts its surroundings, adapting dynamically to enhance focus on content. Essentially, much of the interface is designed to be transparent.

This approach also signifies a broader integration of software and hardware, creating an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing environment. Menus become contextual, and buttons are designed to fade away when not in use. Users can opt for completely translucent icons, a feature that has received mixed reactions. While some embrace the sleek look, others might find it reminiscent of the shift from iOS 6 to iOS 7, a change that caused divisive opinions among users.

However, many anticipate that the transition to Liquid Glass will feel less jarring than previous updates. Accessibility remains a concern with this new design. Despite having good eyesight, I recognize that millions of Americans—approximately 8.3 million—identify as blind or have low vision. They often rely on features like text size adjustments and contrast settings to navigate their devices.

Thankfully, Apple is likely to maintain accessibility options, allowing users to choose from light mode, dark mode, or tinted icons, ensuring that the new design does not alienate those with visual impairments. Overall, while Liquid Glass may not appeal to everyone, it seems Apple is mindful of inclusivity in its latest design venture.

Metal 4 and Game Porting Toolkit 3 Empower Developers to Create Superior Gaming Experiences

At WWDC 2025, Apple introduced enhanced tools for game developers aimed at improving gaming performance, including higher resolutions, faster frame rates, and enhanced ray tracing capabilities, while using fewer resources. Although there was less focus on games during the keynote, emerging details about the upgraded gaming APIs, namely Metal 4 and Game Porting Toolkit 3, indicate significant advancements in game development.

Metal 4 is a low-level, hardware-accelerated API that enables developers to create intricate graphical interfaces and games efficiently. Game Porting Toolkit 3 assists developers in testing and transitioning games from other platforms, such as Windows, to Apple’s ecosystem.

These updates simplify the process for developers, whether they are starting from the ground up or porting existing games. One notable feature of Game Porting Toolkit 3 is its customizable Metal Performance HUD, which provides on-screen insights to help developers optimize performance.

Additionally, it supports features like sparse buffers and textures and includes tools for performance analysis on Windows games. This toolkit aims to streamline the porting process, facilitating a smoother transition for more games to Apple platforms.

Metal 4 includes various enhancements that optimize performance on Apple Silicon, reducing overhead command encoding and improving resource management. It introduces machine learning support, specifically for tensors, in both the API and shading language.

New MetalFX functions, such as Frame Interpolation and Denoising, enhance gameplay performance and graphical quality. Frame Interpolation generates smoother transitions by creating intermediate frames, while Denoising allows for real-time ray tracing, enhancing realism with accurate lighting effects.

These developments bodes well for gamers, as improved performance on Apple devices translates to better gaming experiences. The advancements in the Game Porting Toolkit suggest an increase in game titles available on platforms like Mac, iPhone, and iPad.

Metal 4’s efficiency improvements also indicate that even older processors, such as the M2, will benefit from these enhancements. As developers begin integrating these new APIs, the landscape of gaming on Apple devices is set for transformation.

The developer betas will be available through the summer, leading to new apps and games that utilize these features when macOS Tahoe is released in the fall.

Apple Vision Pro Spatial Widgets Integrate Applications Seamlessly into Your Physical Environment

Apple Vision Pro’s Spatial Widgets represent a significant shift in how users interact with their environments. Announced at the WWDC 2025 event and introduced in visionOS 26, these widgets bring familiar features such as clocks, music controls, weather updates, and photo galleries directly into the user’s physical space. Rather than relying on screens, users can now position these interactive elements throughout their surroundings, where they remain in place and reappear each time the headset is worn.

These widgets are not only functional but also customizable, allowing users to adjust their size, color, depth, and layout. Vision Pro’s ability to remember widget placements signals a leap toward persistent spatial computing, enabling a more integrated experience with one’s environment. For instance, the Photos widget can create a panoramic display, while the Clock widget offers various styles that can gracefully adorn a virtual wall.

Similarly, the Weather widget adapts automatically to location conditions, and the Music widget provides quick access to content in a spatially aware format. Despite the innovative potential of spatial widgets, they also prompt reflection on the evolving relationship between digital and physical environments. Watching the WWDC demo may evoke memories of a stark, minimalist living space enhanced only by augmented reality, where it felt animated solely through the headset.

Although Apple envisions a cozy setting for its users, the blending of digital and tangible elements raises considerations about the future of our spaces. Currently, visionOS 26 is in developer beta, with a public release anticipated in fall 2025. As more developers create spatial widgets, the Vision Pro could become increasingly practical for daily tasks.

However, the darker possibility of these widgets devolving into mere advertisements looms large. While Apple maintains a generally positive corporate reputation, the potential misuse of technology remains a pertinent concern in the realm of augmented reality.