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Compatibility of Apple Watches with the Upcoming watchOS 26 Release

As Apple prepares to unveil the latest version of watchOS, a leak has surfaced detailing which Apple Watch models will be compatible with this new software. There is speculation that Apple plans to align all its operating systems with a new numbering system that ends with 26, correlating to the year of release. Currently, users can enjoy watchOS 11 on the Apple Watch Series 10, but by September 2025, an updated version known as watchOS 26 could be running on an Apple Watch Series 11. One certainty is that the Apple Watch Series 11 will indeed support the most current version of watchOS.

However, there has been uncertainty regarding the compatibility of older models. A recent leak reported by MacRumors provides clarity on this matter, listing the older models that will support the upcoming watchOS 26:

– Apple Watch Series 6
– Apple Watch Series 7
– Apple Watch Series 8
– Apple Watch Series 9
– Apple Watch Series 10
– Apple Watch Ultra
– Apple Watch Ultra 2
– Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)

This list mirrors the models currently supporting watchOS 11, and it’s unsurprising, considering the Apple Watch Series 6 debuted in 2020. Apple has a history of maintaining lengthy support for its devices, as evidenced by its iOS 18 adoption rate that accommodates iPhones up to seven years old. However, the transition to watchOS 11 saw a significant reduction in support for older models; both the Apple Watch Series 4 and Series 5, alongside the original Apple Watch SE, were dropped from compatibility in a single update.

Full details about the new watchOS will be revealed during the WWDC opening keynote on June 9.

HomePod Compatibility List: Updated for June 2025

As WWDC approaches, compatibility lists often emerge prematurely. This time, a leak concerning HomePod Software 26 has created some buzz, especially with unexpected revelations about device compatibility. Prior to this leak, there had been minimal speculation about the upcoming September 2025 revision to HomePod software, aside from its anticipated designation. Before the leak surfaced, it was generally presumed that all past HomePods would remain compatible.

However, many anticipated that the original HomePod, launched in 2018, might be excluded from the compatibility list. This assumption stemmed from its use of the A8 processor, which is notably found only in the Apple TV HD, as well as the fact that it was announced at WWDC 2017 and released in February 2018. In 2020, Apple shifted its attention towards the HomePod mini, which significantly contributed to the original HomePod’s discontinuation in retail by March 2021. By 2024, the original device was classified as vintage, coinciding with the introduction of the second generation of the larger HomePod.

Regarding the reliability of the leak, it seems plausible due to the leaker’s established track record. They have consistently shared accurate build numbers and details about beta releases prior to official announcements. Mark your calendars for Monday, June 9, as Apple will reveal more information during its 2025 WWDC keynote, set to commence at 1 PM ET. The anticipation surrounding the updates is certainly building, and it remains to be seen which devices will ultimately support the new HomePod Software 26.

London TikTok Prankster Arrested by Police for Apple Pay Shenanigans

A TikTok creator recently attempted to prank people by pretending to take cash from their iPhones using the Tap to Pay feature. Unfortunately for the prankster, the situation escalated and did not end well. The prank involves the creator holding their iPhone near a stranger’s device, playing the distinct sound associated with transactions, and then expressing gratitude for a supposed donation.

This setup is typically filmed for a comedic TikTok video, but often, a police presence is not far behind. In an incident reported by the UK’s Daily Mail, a TikTok user in London claimed to have taken £10,000 (approximately $13,500) from a passerby along the River Thames, though he later revised this figure to £1,000. The situation quickly turned chaotic when the man confronted the prankster.

As tensions rose, the TikTok user’s friend continued filming, asking if they should keep recording the unfolding events. Two plainclothes police officers soon intervened and, after the TikTok user resisted arrest, they proceeded to handcuff him. The officers informed him that he would be searched for items related to suspected fraud.

While the outcome for the TikTok duo remains unclear, the incident highlights the risks of such pranks. Contrary to the prank’s premise, actual funds cannot be transferred using Apple Pay without user confirmation. In the UK, the similar Tap to Pay feature only facilitates transactions with merchants.

The concept of transferring money via the prank relies on misinformation since the functionalities required, like Apple Cash, aren’t available in the region. Users in the US must follow several steps to execute a transaction, making this prank even more improbable and amusingly misguided.

All Apple TV Models Are Compatible with Upcoming tvOS 26 Update

A recent leak has revealed the complete list of Apple TV models compatible with the upcoming tvOS 26 upgrade, which is expected to be announced at WWDC 2025. This leak follows previous disclosures regarding compatibility for other Apple products, including the Apple Watch and HomePod. According to this latest information, the following Apple TV models will support tvOS 26:

– Apple TV HD (2015)
– Apple TV 4K (1st generation, 2017)
– Apple TV 4K (2nd generation, 2021)
– Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 2022)

Although the leak does not provide specific details, it is assumed that both variants of the Apple TV 4K 3rd generation will be included in this list.

The distinction between the two models lies in their connectivity options, with one featuring only Wi-Fi and the other offering both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections. Notably, this update indicates that no new Apple TV models will be excluded this year, as was the case with the Apple Watch and its watchOS 26 compatibility. However, it is important to note that the models that will not receive support include the original first, second, and third-generation Apple TVs.

Apple began phasing out support for the first-generation model in 2018, and more recently, Netflix announced it would cease support for the second and third generations. Furthermore, there are ongoing rumors suggesting that a new Apple TV might be unveiled in 2025. While the confirmation of tvOS 26 launching at WWDC 2025 is secure, it remains uncertain, though not impossible, that it could coincide with a hardware announcement.

Grab ‘Borderlands 2’ for free on Steam until June 8—don’t miss out!

To generate excitement for the forthcoming release of “Borderlands 4,” Gearbox, 2K, and Take-Two Interactive are offering “Borderlands 2” for free to PC and Mac users. However, players need to act fast to secure this offer permanently. Download the game from Steam before June 8 at 1:00 pm ET, and you’ll keep it forever—essentially receiving a $20 game at no cost. For those unfamiliar, “Borderlands 2” is a popular first-person shooter integrated with role-playing elements, set amid a post-apocalyptic backdrop.

The game is celebrated for its distinctive artistic style and dark humor. Players can choose from an array of characters as they complete missions, all while collecting more potent weapons and gear. While the game emphasizes cooperative multiplayer gameplay, it is also enjoyable as a solo experience. Originally launched in 2012, “Borderlands 2” garnered favorable reviews from critics and fans alike, particularly for its gameplay and customization features.

Some reviewers, however, pointed out minor discrepancies in class functionality. Despite its age, the game remains playable on modern Mac systems utilizing Rosetta 2, ensuring compatibility with Apple Silicon. For those interested, head to Steam to claim your free copy before the deadline. Failing to do so means you’ll have to pay the regular price of $20.

“Borderlands 4” is set to launch in September 2025. Recently, Take-Two announced updates to its end-user licensing agreements (EULA), including provisions applicable to “Borderlands 2.” One YouTuber shared a critical interpretation of these changes, sparking controversy. The claims suggest the EULA allows the game to access personal information and restricts modding capabilities.

However, these interpretations may be misrepresentative and generally reflect broader practices in software licensing. As a result, “Borderlands 2” found itself facing a review bomb on Steam, prompting Gearbox’s CEO, Randy Pitchford, to clarify the situation. He reassured players that no changes have been made to the software itself, emphasizing that while EULA adjustments are made at the publisher level, no spyware is included in the game. If you’re new to “Borderlands 2,” understanding these circumstances helps explain the recent “overwhelmingly negative” reviews.

AirPods Enable Live Translation; Exciting New Genmoji Unveiled at WWDC

Apple is set to focus its upcoming announcements on Apple Intelligence during WWDC 2025, primarily targeting developer tools and enhanced translation features. Among these features is live translation through AirPods. This development was hinted at in various pre-WWDC leaks, despite initial expectations that there would be limited news on Apple Intelligence following last year’s launch. According to reports from Bloomberg, Apple has identified two major priorities for Apple Intelligence this year, along with two additional minor focuses.

The first major emphasis will be on translation capabilities, which are expected to expand across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS platforms. This includes automatic translation of Messages and live call translations, enhancing user communication. Additionally, Apple is reportedly working on providing live conversation translation through AirPods. Earlier discussions suggested that this feature would automatically detect the spoken language, streamlining multilingual interactions for users.

For developers, a significant enhancement is on the horizon, granting access to Apple Intelligence tools similar to those used for Genmoji and Writing Tools. This access will enable developers to create applications leveraging the same advanced AI functionalities that Apple utilizes. Genmoji, one of the smaller areas of focus, is anticipated to receive a minor upgrade, allowing users to combine existing emojis into new images. Alongside these specific features, Apple is expected to refresh its Shortcuts app to simplify the automation process across Macs, iPhones, and iPads.

All these features are poised for unveiling during the WWDC opening keynote on June 9, which will also include an extensive redesign of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, making this event a significant milestone in Apple’s development journey.

iOS 18.3 Fixes iMessage Spyware Vulnerability Related to Nickname Feature

Recent forensic evidence suggests that a rare iPhone crash linked to an iMessage bug may be indicative of targeted spyware attempts, although Apple remains skeptical. The iMessage vulnerability, discovered by the security firm iVerify, affected how iPhones handled nickname updates within the Messages app.

Apple has since patched the flaw, named “Nickname,” in the iOS 18.3 update. The issue was connected to the Share Name and Photo feature, which allows users to share their chosen name and profile picture when messaging.

The researchers found that a bug in the processing of these nickname updates could lead to a remote crash of the Messages app. By sending a specific sequence of nickname changes, attackers could exploit a memory error in a system process known as “imagent.”

This type of vulnerability requires no user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it only needs the target’s phone number and Apple ID. iVerify analyzed crash logs from nearly 50,000 devices between April 2024 and January 2025, discovering that the crashes linked to the Nickname bug were extremely rare and mostly found on phones used by individuals holding sensitive positions.

Notably, one high-ranking European Union official experienced a crash that aligned with the vulnerability and later received a threat alert from Apple. In response, Apple’s head of Security Engineering, Ivan Krstic, stated that the company does not support claims of a targeted attack and believes the issue was merely a software bug.

He pointed out that no credible evidence exists to suggest exploitation in real-world attacks. While Apple employs advanced security features to protect users, the incident underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and being cautious of unknown messages.

Users, especially those in sensitive fields, should consider enabling additional security measures such as Lockdown Mode and stay vigilant against potential threats.

Developers Seek App Store Advantages Without the Associated Costs

Developers now have the ability to direct users within their apps to make subscription payments outside of the App Store; however, this shift comes with several complications. In the United States, Apple is required to allow developers to link to their websites or third-party payment systems. While this could be viewed as an opportunity to circumvent the so-called “Apple tax,” some industry observers argue that many developers are simply looking for a way to avoid paying fees for services that benefit their business. For instance, Sam Liang, CEO of Otter, expressed frustration over losing 30% of subscription revenue to Apple, labeling the situation as “completely insane.”

Yet, it prompts the question of whether similar fees imposed by other companies—like Microsoft’s in the Xbox Store—are labeled as a “Microsoft tax” or whether retail partners impose a “retail tax.” Interestingly, developments like Cameo, which allows users to buy personalized messages from celebrities, had to work tirelessly on alternative payment options. This raises the question of how their business model would fare if there wasn’t Apple facilitating access to a large user base through the App Store. Furthermore, while Otter’s platform has grown thanks to Apple’s ecosystem, its CEO’s complaints about fees overlook the significant advantages provided by the App Store.

Apple has undeniably shaped today’s app marketplace, making it easier for developers to reach global audiences without bearing the costs associated with traditional retail. The feasibility of moving payments out of Apple’s ecosystem remains in question, with some developers considering discounts as incentives. For example, yoga app Down Dog has successfully transitioned a portion of its subscribers away from Apple while facing challenges typical of external payment options. Developers rely on Apple while simultaneously critiquing its fees, but both parties ultimately need each other to thrive.

Consequently, the future relationship between app developers and Apple will likely evolve as this landscape continues to change.

Beware: Fake iPhone Texts Claiming DMV Fines Are Circulating

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting iPhone users with fraudulent text messages that impersonate government authorities, warning of imaginary deadlines and overdue fines. Recently, a staff member received a message from the “Tennessee Department of Vehicles,” claiming that failure to pay for an alleged traffic ticket by June 8 could result in legal action, license suspension, and damage to their credit score. The text provided a link to a counterfeit payment site and encouraged recipients to reply with the letter “Y” to activate the link. These scams are not confined to Tennessee; similar messages have emerged in states such as Texas, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

Despite slight variations in wording and agency names, the common thread is a threat of legal consequences accompanied by a deceptive payment link. This suggests a coordinated nationwide campaign designed to make the messages appear more localized and believable. The tactics employed in these scams are blatant phishing attempts. For instance, the text referenced a fictitious “North Tennessee State Administrative Code” while containing several red flags.

The link in the message was a spoofed domain unrelated to any legitimate government service, and it originated from a foreign number with a Philippine country code, (+63). As reported in March, scams involving unpaid tolls and tickets have become increasingly rampant, leveraging over 60,000 fake domains to extract sensitive financial information from users. The proliferation of these scams can be attributed to the low cost and ease of mass text messaging. Criminal organizations, including those suspected of operating from overseas, utilize bulk texting platforms to reach countless individuals.

Even a small percentage of favorable responses can yield significant financial returns. To protect yourself from such scams, avoid engaging with any suspicious text messages. Do not click links or reply, even with a simple “Y.” Such responses may confirm your number’s activity and lead to further targeting.

Instead, block the sender, report the scamming message, and verify any suspected debts through official channels. Look for common characteristics of scam texts, including unfamiliar agency names, strange domain suffixes, or threats urging immediate action. By staying vigilant, you can help safeguard your personal information.

Trump Administration Expected to Postpone TikTok Ban Once More

The Trump administration has once again suspended the TikTok ban, leaving its future in limbo. This ongoing situation is largely fueled by trade tensions between the U.S. and China, creating a backdrop of uncertainty.

Recent reports indicate that President Trump is likely to push back the ban date for a third time, as discussions for a potential sale are stalled, continuing to prolong the app’s status. This postponement comes earlier than previous delays, which often occurred just before or even after a deadline.

For instance, during his second term, Trump rolled back a ban just two days after it was enforced under the Biden administration. He had initially given TikTok two and a half months to secure a sale to an American company before facing a nationwide ban, which was set to go into effect on April 5.

However, he delayed this decision until April 4, granting the company a 75-day extension until June 18. ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has stated that no agreements are currently in place for the app’s future ownership.

Additionally, any potential agreement would require approval under Chinese law, highlighting the complexities involved. Since mid-2020, TikTok’s fate has fluctuated, particularly when the Trump administration first threatened a ban unless a sale to an American buyer occurred.

Although it appeared the ban was off the table during much of the Biden administration, new legislation signed in April 2024 required ByteDance to divest its ownership within nine months. Trump’s attitude toward TikTok has notably shifted since his first term.

Once an outspoken critic advocating for the app’s ban, he now acknowledges TikTok as a vital tool for connecting with younger voters. In late May, he expressed his desire to “save TikTok,” indicating a significant change in perspective.

While a proposal to create “TikTok America” was suggested, aiming to allocate ownership favorably to U.S. investors, it has gained little traction. As the ambiguity surrounding TikTok continues, it remains to be seen whether the Trump administration will maintain this pattern of extensions and what legal ramifications may arise.