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Introducing the New AirTag 2: Extended Range and Enhanced Battery Life Features Await

The anticipated second generation of Apple’s AirTags seems to be on the horizon, with hints of new features appearing in the code snippets of iOS 26. The original AirTags, launched in April 2021, have gained widespread popularity, proving essential for various uses, including locating lost luggage and even rescuing pets in emergencies. Since their release, there have been persistent whispers about an updated version possibly debuting in 2025, sparking interest in what enhancements might be on the way.

According to reports, the iOS 26 code does not explicitly mention AirTags 2 but indicates updates related to how AirTags are managed. This includes improvements in Bluetooth communication between AirTags and Apple devices. There are also implications about battery life, though specific references to new AirTags are not made.

Expected upgrades could include enhanced battery performance and more precise location tracking. Apple is likely to incorporate an upgraded Ultra Wideband processor that could significantly extend the range of Precision Finding. Currently, this feature works within a distance of around 98 feet.

With the anticipated enhancements, this range might increase to approximately 295 feet, offering users greater flexibility in locating their belongings. While the compact design of AirTags limits the extent of potential changes, there are rumors of a louder speaker, which could improve tracking sound alerts. Currently, it seems Apple will maintain the traditional round button form factor and is not expected to change it for the new model.

It’s worth noting that third-party alternatives exist that utilize Apple’s Find My network, providing different shapes and designs, albeit they do not have the same iconic look.

Improved iPhone Battery Life in iOS 26: Trends and Adaptive Power Features Explained

Apple has introduced significant updates to iPhone battery management with iOS 26, focusing on a new feature called Adaptive Power and enhancing user experience. This latest version improves how users can monitor and manage their battery, aiming to extend its lifespan.

Over the years, the iPhone’s approach to battery management has evolved, providing users with essential information about battery health and charging options. Although rumors suggested the arrival of AI-based battery management in iOS 26, those features may be postponed until the release of the iPhone 17 Air.

Regardless, the current updates in battery settings are still quite beneficial. One of the most noticeable changes is the redesign of the Battery section in the Settings app.

Users will now encounter an informative screen rather than the previous, more utilitarian layout. The updated interface includes a prominent battery percentage bar that displays the remaining charge in both numerical and graphical formats.

Additionally, it informs users how long it would take to fully recharge the device and indicates if a slow charger is in use. The new Daily Usage section aggregates trend data regarding battery consumption and identifies power-hungry applications.

Users can view this alongside the Battery Level graph, providing insight into their overall battery usage. Another exciting development is the introduction of the Power Mode page, which replaces the Low Power Mode toggle.

With Adaptive Power, users can activate a more proactive battery management system that allows the iPhone to make minor performance adjustments to prolong battery life. For instance, this may include slightly dimming the display or allowing non-essential tasks to take longer.

Overall, Adaptive Power operates alongside Low Power Mode, working to sustain iPhone performance while extending battery longevity. Although there may be a slight reduction in processing speed, the goal remains to keep users connected for as long as possible.

Apple Intelligence Shortcuts Coming to macOS 26 and iOS 26

Apple has introduced Intelligent Actions, enabling users to automate their experience with Apple Intelligence features. This update integrates Writing Tools and image creation into the Shortcuts app, allowing users to combine various options seamlessly.

With the release of iOS 18 in 2024, creating Shortcuts has become more user-friendly, thanks to the app’s redesign. However, in iOS 26, Apple has enhanced the capabilities further by introducing significant new features.

All available Apple Intelligence tools can now be accessed through Intelligent Actions. The main actions included in the current developer beta are diverse and beneficial.

They encompass changing the tone of text, creating lists and tables from text, proofreading, rewriting, summarizing text, and employing specific models. The ability to choose which AI model to use is particularly noteworthy.

Options available include Private Cloud Compute, On-Device, Extension, and Ask Each Time. “Ask Each Time” allows users to select the model during Shortcut execution, while the other options pertain to the mode and location of query processing.

The “On-Device” option uses the Apple Intelligence LLM on the user’s device, whether it is an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. In contrast, “Private Cloud Compute” utilizes Apple’s extensive cloud resources while maintaining privacy.

The “Extension” option currently features ChatGPT, with expectations of future integration with Google’s Gemini AI tool. These enhancements to Shortcuts not only bolster its capabilities but also improve the overall functionality of Apple Intelligence.

Rather than executing multiple writing tasks manually, users can automate these processes through Shortcuts, optimizing efficiency. For example, a student might combine their notes and an audio recording of a lecture into a Shortcut, which then transcribes the audio and compares it to the notes.

Although creating such Shortcuts requires initial effort, their value grows for tasks that are performed frequently. As a result, Shortcuts has become increasingly valuable in iOS 26 and macOS 26.

Passthrough Audio Feature Coming Soon to Apple TV: What You Need to Know

At WWDC, Apple announced that tvOS 26 will include passthrough audio, which offers the potential for a superior listening experience. This feature will eliminate audio preprocessing on the Apple TV, allowing the raw audio stream to be directly handed off to external sound systems. Historically, while Apple TV has been a powerful set-top box, its handling of audio has raised concerns due to the lack of passthrough audio features. This is set to change with the new update.

According to the Apple Developer documentation for AVFAudio, there’s a case for “passthrough” within the AVAudioContentSource enumeration, indicating that the feature is in development. Passthrough audio allows devices or operating systems to transmit audio from an application without altering it. Typically, applications like Netflix send audio through the Apple TV for processing before playback. Many high-quality home cinema systems can handle and process audio themselves; however, this often leads to a situation where users miss out on the benefits of their sophisticated audio equipment due to the intermediate processing by the Apple TV.

Apple has confirmed that enabling passthrough audio—when supported by a streaming app—will allow the original audio to bypass the Apple TV’s processing, giving external hardware the opportunity to enhance audio quality. While the primary focus for passthrough audio is Apple TV, the feature is not limited to tvOS 26. The documentation indicates that passthrough capabilities will also extend to iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, visionOS 26, and watchOS 26. Although passthrough may be less relevant for Apple Watch, it holds promise for Macs, which can connect to TVs and home theater systems in ways similar to Apple TV.

The introduction of the passthrough case signifies progress in audio functionality, but it requires developers to implement it within their applications. Additionally, Apple may need to introduce a specific setting to enable this new feature, as the initial beta of tvOS 26 does not currently include such an option in the audio settings.

Preventing Automatic Switching of Audio Between AirPods and Speakers

CarPlay can sometimes be overly eager, turning on your audio before you’ve even removed your AirPods or entered your car. A new feature in iOS 26 aims to resolve this issue permanently.

Apple has developed impressive technology in two main areas, though both have their shortcomings. The first is Siri, which attempts to determine which device you want to interact with when called.

The second revolves around a feature across iOS, macOS, and iPadOS that allows your AirPods to switch between devices seamlessly. While it generally operates well, it has had a significant drawback—until now, with the introduction of iOS 26.

To take advantage of this new setting, you simply need to go to your iPhone’s Settings. Navigate to General, select AirPlay & Continuity, and enable “Keep Audio in Headphones.”

Though this might seem like a minor addition, it significantly enhances the user experience. According to Apple, this feature ensures that when using AirPods or other connected headphones, audio remains in your headphones even when other playback devices, such as cars or speakers, connect to your iPhone.

Previously, you may have found your audio abruptly shifting from AirPods to your car’s speakers as soon as you started your vehicle, often even before you entered the car. Some users reported this occurring right after unlocking their car with Apple’s CarKey.

This specific scenario predominantly affects users who utilize wireless CarPlay, especially during quiet exits from gatherings. While issues still exist with the connection stability between AirPods and playback devices, the update in iOS 26 demonstrates Apple’s commitment to refining user experience, particularly as it seeks to encourage more car manufacturers to adopt CarPlay Ultra technology.

iOS 26 Introduces Satellite Weather Updates for Offline Use on iPhone Devices

Apple is reportedly developing a satellite-powered weather update feature for iPhones, as indicated by findings in the iOS 26 developer beta. While not highlighted during the 2025 WWDC keynote, this feature has been uncovered in the iOS 26 code and is designed for users in remote areas. Once iOS 26 is officially released later in 2025, supported iPhones will have the capability to receive “Weather Updates via Satellite” when standard network access is unavailable.

This process is akin to the existing Emergency SOS feature, requiring users to aim their devices skyward to establish a satellite connection. Upon connecting, users will receive real-time weather data and alerts relevant to their specific locations. This feature promises to be beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers and campers, who often face challenges in areas with poor cellular reception.

Until now, Apple’s satellite functionalities were primarily focused on emergencies and messaging, but this integration signifies a shift toward more practical, everyday applications. Apple first introduced satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14 in 2022, starting with the Emergency SOS capability, which has been instrumental in helping rescue individuals in critical situations. The company has incrementally expanded its services to include iMessage and location sharing via satellite.

However, it remains unclear whether the satellite weather updates will be offered at no cost or as part of a paid plan. Pricing details for long-term access have yet to be disclosed, and it is speculative whether it will be bundled with services like iCloud+. Coverage for satellite services is still geographically limited, predominantly available in the US, Canada, and select European regions.

The new weather functionality could be crucial in disaster scenarios where traditional infrastructure fails, enabling iPhones to deliver vital weather updates when conventional communication methods are out of service. Apple plans to launch iOS 26 publicly in the fall of 2025, with a beta version available in July. As the company enhances its satellite capabilities, the distinction between emergency tools and everyday features continues to diminish, marking a meaningful advancement for iPhone users.

iPadOS 26’s Mac-like UI Enhancements: A Significant Boost in Productivity

Apple’s introduction of window control dots and a Menu Bar in iPadOS 26 brings a significant leap in multitasking capabilities, making the iPad feel more like a Mac in terms of productivity. These features were unveiled during the WWDC 2025 keynote, along with new window management options that enhance the user experience for both Mac users and current tablet users alike. One notable feature is the addition of window control dots, similar to those found in macOS.

Located in the top-left corner of app windows, these dots offer users quick access to close, minimize, or maximize their apps. By tapping a small oval in the corner, the dots enlarge, making them easier to interact with. The left red dot closes the app, the middle yellow dot hides it, and the green dot toggles fullscreen mode or restores it.

A long press on the green dot reveals options for resizing windows, facilitating better multitasking by allowing users to fit multiple apps on screen. The new Menu Bar is another important enhancement, resembling the macOS interface. Though initially hidden at the top of the screen, it can be displayed by swiping down.

The Menu Bar provides app-specific options and includes drop-down menus for further navigation. However, not all applications support a Menu Bar; its availability depends on app development. For instance, certain fullscreen apps may not display the Menu Bar but still show the window control dots when not in that mode.

While these features greatly improve multitasking efficiency, they’re not always accessible. In the Multitasking & Gestures settings, users can choose from modes like Full-Screen Apps, Windowed Apps, and Stage Manager. Full-Screen mode lacks window controls and the Menu Bar, necessitating a swiping action to return to the home screen.

Meanwhile, both Windowed Apps and Stage Manager modes support resizing and include all new management options.

How to Determine if Mac Apps are Compatible with Intel or Apple Silicon Processors

The time is running out for Intel apps on Mac, with only two more versions of macOS set to provide full support for Intel-only apps via Rosetta 2. As we look toward Fall 2027, it becomes essential to identify which of your applications may soon lose support.

In 2020, Apple launched Apple Silicon, which generated excitement but also posed challenges for users relying on Intel-based applications. To facilitate the shift from Intel to Silicon, Apple introduced Rosetta 2, a translation software designed to allow many Intel applications to work on new hardware.

However, Apple always intended for this to be a temporary solution and clarified at WWDC that macOS 27, the version coming in Fall 2026, would be the last to fully support Rosetta 2. Now is the ideal time to assess which of your frequently used applications run on Intel versus those that are Universal or natively supported.

This proactive approach can help you plan your transition and avoid potential surprises in Fall 2027. To find out which applications are Intel-based, you can take a straightforward approach:

1.

Click the Apple menu icon at the top left of your screen. 2.

Choose “About this Mac.” 3.

In the pop-up window, click “More Info.” 4.

From there, select “System Report.” 5.

Scroll down to “Software” and click “Applications.” You will see a comprehensive list of applications.

Sorting by the “Kind” column makes it easy to identify Intel apps. If you prefer a more efficient method, a free tool named Silicon by iMazing can quickly scan your system to identify which applications are Intel-based.

After gathering this information, consider your next steps. You might want to seek out alternatives that are natively supported on Apple Silicon, especially if some of your Intel apps appear outdated.

Reaching out to developers to encourage them to support their Intel-based applications natively on macOS can also be beneficial. Utilize official websites, social media, or platforms like Reddit to establish communication.

If you do contact developers, remember to be courteous; many smaller developers are passionate about their work and appreciate the human touch.

Apple Expands Car Key Support by Adding 13 New Car Brands to Its List

At the recent WWDC keynote, Apple announced that its Car Key feature will expand to include thirteen new car brands, although the exact timeline for this rollout remains unspecified. Car Key has allowed iPhone users to unlock and start their vehicles using their mobile devices for some time, showcasing Apple’s ongoing effort to integrate technology into everyday life. During the WWDC 2025 keynote, in addition to a multi-platform user interface overhaul, Apple highlighted several car-related features that will soon be available.

Among those updates for CarPlay were a new “Liquid Glass” design, Widgets, and Live Activities on the dashboard, which promise to enhance the user experience in vehicles. Amid these announcements, Apple briefly mentioned the extension of Car Key support to an additional 13 car brands. Although specifics on the rollout timeline were not provided, this expansion signifies a substantial increase in the number of vehicles compatible with Apple’s technology.

The brands set to gain support for Car Key include Acura, Cadillac, Chery, Chevrolet, GMC, Hongqi, Lucid, Porsche, Rivian, Smart, Tata, Voyah, and WEY. It’s worth noting that many of these brands do not have a presence in the U.S. market. Once the new brands are officially added, a total of 33 car manufacturers will support Apple Wallet integration.

This development marks a significant step forward for Apple as it continues to build its ecosystem and strengthen its presence in the automotive sector. Users can look forward to a more seamless experience as Apple expands its support network for Car Key.

Time Machine’s Time Capsule Support Concludes with the Launch of macOS 27

Time Capsule’s days are numbered as Apple phases out support for Time Machine backups utilizing this hardware in the upcoming macOS 27. After a period where the Time Capsule, which was once a staple for Mac users, seemed obsolete, its relevance is fading completely. Launched as a network storage solution, Time Capsules allowed users to back up their Macs and other devices over a home network.

However, the end of its usability for Mac users is drawing near. User @StellaFudge, previously known as leaker @Choco_bit, recently shared a screenshot highlighting changes in Time Machine settings in macOS 26. This update indicates that AirPort Disk, employed for Time Machine backups, is now discouraged.

A clear message has emerged stating that macOS 27 “will no longer support AirPort Disk or other Time Capsule disks for Time Machine backups.” The specific reason behind this transition has yet to be articulated by Apple, but it is likely linked to the depreciation of the technologies that Time Capsule relies upon. According to release notes for macOS Sequoia 15, Apple announced the deprecation of the Apple Filing Protocol (AFP), which Time Capsule uses for connectivity alongside the older SMBv1 protocol.

More recent versions of macOS favor newer SMB versions for security, even though SMBv1 remains available as a deprecated option for legacy systems. As of now, Mac users testing the developer beta of macOS 26 can still utilize Time Machine with a Time Capsule. However, they need to begin exploring alternative backup solutions as support is set to lapse.

Importantly, this change should not impact external drives used for backups—assuming HFS+ support continues in macOS 27, though its future remains uncertain.