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iOS 26 Introduces Voicemail Spam Reporting and Enhanced Screening Features

Apple is enhancing its measures against unwanted calls and messages in iOS 26, introducing smarter voicemail reporting features. One of the most notable additions is a new option in the Phone app that allows users to report spam voicemails directly to Apple. When receiving a voicemail from an unknown number, users can now tap on the message to reveal a “Report Spam” button. This feature gives users the choice to report the voicemail while keeping it or report and delete it.

Regardless of the choice, the message is flagged and sent to Apple for evaluation. It’s important to note that reporting a voicemail does not automatically block the caller. Users still need to manually block the number, maintaining the current process. However, the data from these reports could help enhance Apple’s filtering algorithms, especially if a significant number of users flag similar messages.

In conjunction with these voicemail enhancements, iOS 26 also improves spam handling in the Messages app. A dedicated Spam folder has been introduced, which isolates scam messages from legitimate alerts, such as two-factor codes. If a message is incorrectly categorized, users have the option to manually mark it as spam. While notifications for unknown senders and detected spam messages remain off by default, these settings can be adjusted.

Additionally, a Call Screening feature has been rolled out. When an unknown number calls, the iPhone prompts the caller to provide their name and reason for calling. This information is then relayed to the user, who can decide whether or not to answer, thus helping filter interruptions without denying legitimate calls. Currently, spam voicemail reporting is only accessible in the developer beta of iOS 26, with a public beta anticipated in July 2025, and a full release expected in September alongside the iPhone 17 lineup.

While the fate of flagged voicemails post-reporting remains unclear, they likely contribute to machine learning models aimed at enhancing future spam filtering. Overall, these updates reflect a shift towards preventive measures, emphasizing user input and real-time filtering to minimize spam occurrences.

iOS 26: Experience Stretchy and 3D Lock Screen Customization Like Never Before!

The iOS 26 Lock Screen introduces exciting features like Spatial Photos for wallpapers and a unique clock modification using Liquid Glass, marking a significant upgrade in customization. Apple has gradually enhanced its Lock Screen personalization capabilities, and iOS 26 furthers this trend, offering a variety of new elements.

One of the most noteworthy aspects is the wallpaper customization. While previous iterations primarily allowed for static images, iOS 26 enables a more dynamic, 3D experience.

Users can utilize the Spatial Photo conversion feature from the Photos app to transform 2D images from their library into 3D visuals through machine learning. This allows for an engaging parallax effect that enhances the depth of the images when tilting the iPhone.

To set a wallpaper, users simply hold down on the Lock Screen, tap “Customize,” and then proceed to choose a photo from their library. They can opt for premade Spatial Scenes or convert standard images into 3D.

Additionally, users can employ the Photo Shuffle feature, which allows for a rotating selection of images, each with the Spatial Photos effect for added visual flair. Alongside wallpaper changes, the new Liquid Glass appearance complements the entire user interface, though its application on the Lock Screen is somewhat limited.

The effect primarily applies to the clock and Haptic Touch buttons. Users can choose from six different fonts for the clock, each with adjustable weights and color options.

The “Glass” colors create a 3D aesthetic with edges illuminated as if made from glass, introducing an appealing translucency that interacts with the background. Furthermore, one specific font allows for height adjustment, enabling users to stretch the clock significantly.

However, this feature influences the arrangement of widgets that reside below the clock, as they adjust their position dynamically but do not retract until the clock returns to its original size. Overall, the customization options in iOS 26 build on Apple’s existing features, making devices more personal than ever.

While wallpaper options are a notable enhancement, the Liquid Glass feature’s limited scope suggests potential for future expansions, making this an exciting area to watch for updates.

Adding Custom Ringtones in iOS 26 is Now Simpler and More Convenient

Apple is introducing a slight improvement for iPhone users looking to add custom ringtones in iOS 26, but the changes are modest compared to what was available in iOS 18. Historically, adding ringtones to an iPhone has required either a financial investment or significant time to create your own. Apple encourages users to purchase ringtones from the Tone Store, which features snippets of music from popular artists.

Creating custom ringtones previously involved a cumbersome process. Users had to make audio files lasting up to 30 seconds in GarageBand, export them as ringtones, and then add them to their device’s ringtone list. This procedure is often daunting for many users.

However, iOS 26 introduces a somewhat simpler option for adding custom ringtones, although it remains a relatively minimal improvement. In the first developer beta, users can add a custom ringtone more directly by selecting the file in an app and using the Share option. From the Share menu, users can find “Use as Ringtone.”

If it is not immediately visible, it may be located under an extra option in the More button. Once utilized, the new ringtone will appear at the top of the ringtone list in Settings. While this feature ideally works with compatible audio files, users have reported mixed results.

For instance, a custom MP3 file created on a Mac worked when shared via AirDrop, but similar attempts with other applications, like Notes, have not been successful. Additionally, this Share option does not convert Apple Music tracks into ringtones, so users must still create their own audio files or purchase tones from Apple. Despite being a modest enhancement, this update signals progress for Apple.

Users no longer need to rely solely on GarageBand, as alternative audio tools can be utilized. This feature is accessible throughout the iOS ecosystem, offering a more versatile way to personalize ringtones, even if it’s not as straightforward as buying them directly from Apple.

London Couple Tracks Stolen Car Using AirTag Technology

When a couple in London found their $57,000 Jaguar E-Pace stolen, they turned to the police for help. Despite having an AirTag in the vehicle that enabled them to track its location, the Metropolitan Police provided only a vague response, suggesting they might send a patrol car but indicating they would follow up if anything was found. Frustrated by the lack of assistance, Mia Forbes Pirie and her husband, Mark Simpson, decided to retrieve their vehicle themselves.

The couple was fortunate that the car was only nine minutes away. Concerned that the car might be discarded without a trace, Forbes Pirie expressed her urgency and informed the police of their plan to head to the car’s location. However, the police suggested they call back if they needed help at the scene.

Feeling a mix of excitement and adventure, the couple set out to find their car, believing that car thieves would prioritize escaping rather than causing harm. Upon arrival in Chiswick, they located the stolen vehicle parked without any sign of the thieves. Despite the thieves having bypassed the car’s built-in immobilizer, the couple had installed an additional immobilizer, which ultimately foiled the thieves’ plans.

To reclaim their vehicle, Forbes Pirie and Simpson had to prove ownership to the car company, as they could not simply start it due to the immobilizer. Reflecting on their experience, Forbes Pirie noted her expectation that the police would act more quickly given the available location but acknowledged the strain on law enforcement resources. As a result of incidents like this, many car owners now equip their vehicles with AirTags to aid in tracking.

However, experts, including Apple and various law enforcement agencies, recommend caution, citing potential safety concerns, with the exception of London’s Metropolitan Police.

Valve’s Steam Client Receives Long-Awaited Native Upgrade for Apple Silicon Macs

Years after Apple transitioned to Apple Silicon, Valve has finally released a beta version of the Steam client, ending a prolonged effort to adapt to Apple’s technology. With games for Apple Silicon already available on Steam, this marks a significant milestone—five years since Apple Silicon’s debut—by introducing a native client. The beta version, released late Thursday, has made both the Steam Client and Steam Helper Universal apps. Participating in the beta is straightforward and does not require special permissions.

Users can simply navigate to the Settings menu, select the Interface option, opt into beta updates, and restart the client to access the new version. Initial testing on an M1 Ultra Mac Studio indicates that the client performs as expected, with no notable user interface changes apart from its status as a Universal app. However, this development signals a looming shift for Intel Macs. Apple announced at the 2025 WWDC that macOS Tahoe will be the final version to fully support Intel-based Macs, although security updates will continue for some time.

For gamers, the future appears concerning. During the State of the Platform presentation, Apple revealed that Rosetta 2 support will conclude in the fall of 2027, with only reduced support for unmigrated games. The specifics of what “scaled back” support entails remain unclear, with Apple promising to maintain a subset of Rosetta functionality for older, unmaintained gaming titles reliant on Intel frameworks. More information regarding these changes is not expected until the 2026 WWDC, leaving many questions unanswered for gamers and developers alike.

Configuring Quick Keys and Spotlight in macOS Tahoe on Your Mac

Apple has introduced impressive features in macOS Tahoe, particularly the Quick Keys functionality, which allows users to streamline tasks like adding reminders. While these features enhance the experience, setting them up requires a few straightforward steps. The refreshed Spotlight in macOS Tahoe bears similarities to apps like Raycast and Alfred, yet the new functionalities offer considerable utility.

Quick Keys is particularly noteworthy, enabling users to perform frequently repeated tasks by inputting just a couple of letters. For instance, typing “ar” adds a Reminder, while “sm” sends a Message. However, Apple didn’t detail the setup process for these keys, aiming to prioritize speed while minimizing confusion.

To use Quick Keys effectively, it’s important to navigate to the correct part of Spotlight. Typing a few letters in standard Spotlight mode won’t trigger a Quick Key action. Instead, it will search for a matching application.

For example, entering “sm” on a test Mac opened the HP Smart app. To utilize the default Quick Keys, users must follow these steps: Open Spotlight with Command-Space, then press Command-3, type an existing Quick Key like “sm,” and hit Return. This method allows users to fill out the necessary forms for messages, emails, or calendar events without having to leave Spotlight, which enhances productivity.

Creating Quick Keys starts with performing a common task. For instance, to add a calendar event, activate Spotlight with Command-Space, press Command-3, type “calendar,” and after a brief pause, select “New Event.” From there, users can assign a memorable two-character Quick Key.

Although macOS permits up to 12 characters, sticking to two for efficiency is advisable. Overall, Quick Keys significantly enhance task efficiency by allowing immediate access to actions without diverting to separate applications. With the right setup, users can further integrate third-party tools like Keyboard Maestro and physical devices such as Stream Deck to optimize their workflow.

Steps to Safeguard Your Personal Information Online and Remove It from the Internet

Everything you post online carries the risk of being tracked, whether by a potential stalker or a digital advertising agency. Your data is constantly up for grabs, but you can take steps to minimize your digital footprint.

In today’s world, engaging with the internet is unavoidable. However, you don’t need to surrender to data brokers and scammers who seek out every detail of your life.

There are effective methods for reducing your digital footprint, and it starts with practicing good internet hygiene. Digital hygiene is essential for enhancing your online privacy.

Numerous tools are available, particularly for Apple users, such as app tracking transparency and Safari’s tracking blockers. While you need to share personal information in various situations, such as for online transactions, much of your data—like your name, phone number, and email—is accessible to data brokers and people search sites.

This data is often bought and sold because it’s readily available on the open web. Sensitive information can also be leaked during hacks, exposing you to risks like identity theft or stalking.

To counter this risk, it’s wise to reduce the amount of data you make available. Use alternative email addresses for accounts, provide inaccurate personal details when possible, and shop only on trusted websites.

Consistent practice of these habits, along with strong, unique passwords, can significantly lower your chances of falling victim to online threats. However, if you’ve been online for a while, it’s likely that a significant amount of your personal data is already out there.

While you can attempt to delete old social media posts and account histories yourself, removing data collected by brokers is a tedious and time-consuming process. Fortunately, you have the option to leverage services like Incogni, which specialize in handling data removal requests.

Incogni simplifies the personal information deletion process. Once you grant permission, they scan their database for your data and submit removal requests.

They even monitor for any re-entries of your data, handling any appeals on your behalf. This allows you to maintain your privacy without dedicating countless hours to the task.

Taking control of your online presence will decrease the likelihood of identity theft and minimize disruptions from spammers and targeted ads. With attempts to maintain privacy online not needing to be a full-time job, services like Incogni can help you navigate the complexities of data removal efficiently.

Exploring CarPlay Features in iOS 26: A Deep Dive into Liquid Metal Integration

Apple is set to introduce a range of exciting new features for CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra with iOS 26, scheduled for launch this fall. This update brings a refreshed user interface, referred to as the Liquid Glass UI, which adds a sophisticated touch to the overall appearance of CarPlay. The updated design enhances the visual appeal by aligning elements with those found in iOS 26, featuring a glass-like depth, albeit without the dynamic highlights.

Users can expect a new background option that reflects the standard iOS 26 backdrop. Additionally, the introduction of left and right arrows at the bottom corners of the screens facilitates easier navigation between different screens. Moreover, Apple has broadened customization options for icons, now offering both light and dark modes.

A significant addition to CarPlay this year is the inclusion of widgets and Live Activities. Built using Apple’s WidgetKit framework, these widgets mirror those available on iPhones, allowing real-time updates on various metrics like blood sugar levels and weather forecasts. Users can customize widget stacks according to their car’s display size and control smart home devices directly from CarPlay.

Live Activities also arrive in iOS 26, letting users track real-time events right from the CarPlay interface. Important updates such as weather forecasts and flight information will be accessible, contributing to a more connected driving experience. The Maps app has seen enhancements as well, utilizing on-device intelligence to improve route predictions and keep users informed about potential delays.

Users can also revisit previously visited locations with ease. Other updates include a restructured Music app layout and improved message management via the Messages app. With these significant upgrades to CarPlay, users can enjoy an enhanced, intuitive experience without needing to invest in new vehicles.

iOS 26 is currently in beta, and features may evolve before the official release.

Apple Expands AI Vision Beyond Siri with Introduction of Always-On Copilot Feature

Apple executives remain tight-lipped about future plans for Apple Intelligence. However, recent rumors indicate that 2026 could mark the launch of a more contextual Siri, which is viewed as a stepping stone towards the development of chatbots and always-on assistants. Despite a challenging year that has seen Apple’s reputation take a hit due to delays and perceived shortcomings in AI features, the company insists it is not lagging behind in the AI landscape. Delays in Apple Intelligence have also led to postponed product launches, including the anticipated Home Hub.

While there have been setbacks, Apple is committed to enhancing its AI capabilities. Reports from sources suggest several key projects are in the pipeline, though disagreements within the company about their timing and execution remain. The first project is a revamped, more contextual Siri that will leverage app intents to provide user data. Initially intended for iOS 18, this feature has been pushed to early 2026 due to complications with existing legacy systems.

This new version of Siri, powered by a large language model (LLM), aims to deliver more proactive and relevant actions. Another project under consideration is a chatbot called “Knowledge” that could potentially serve as a source of web-based information. There is uncertainty regarding its link to Siri or whether it will function independently. Former Siri chief Robby Walker is reportedly leading this effort, despite pushback from executives who envision Apple Intelligence as a subtle, behind-the-scenes tool rather than a standalone application.

Finally, Apple is exploring the idea of a Siri copilot — an always-on assistant capable of engaging in conversations and performing tasks autonomously. This initiative resembles concepts pursued by other tech companies but may have a distinct advantage given Apple’s existing ecosystem, particularly the iPhone. Overall, while there is a long way to go before these initiatives materialize, Apple appears to be gearing up for a significant shift in its AI strategy, navigating the challenges ahead with a long-term perspective.

PNY Duo Link V3: Experience High-Speed Transfers with USB-C and USB-A Compatibility

PNY’s Duo Link V3 flash drive is designed to offer fast and reliable storage for users who need to work across a variety of devices equipped with USB-C and USB-A ports. This dual-interface flash drive is built to handle high-speed transfers and provides broad compatibility, making it an excellent choice for content creators, professionals, and mobile users alike.

Equipped with both USB Type-C and Type-A connectors, the Duo Link V3 allows for seamless file transfers between mobile devices, such as iPhones and iPads, and computers, including both Mac and PC systems. Thanks to its support for USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology, the drive boasts impressive read speeds of up to 1000MB/s and write speeds that can reach up to 800MB/s, significantly outpacing traditional USB 3 drives.

Storage options for the Duo Link V3 range from 256GB to a massive 2TB, catering to individuals with extensive media libraries or demanding file management requirements. The drive is compatible with a diverse range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux, and also supports On-The-Go (OTG) functionality for Type-C mobile devices.

With a robust metal swivel housing, the Duo Link V3 is designed to be both compact and durable, ensuring that it can withstand regular use. PNY also backs this product with a two-year limited warranty, providing additional peace of mind for users.

Pricing for the Duo Link V3 starts at $34.99 for the 256GB variant and goes up to $159.99 for the 2TB version, making it a versatile and affordable option for those in need of high-quality storage solutions.