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F1, Finder, iPadOS 26 Files, and macOS Tahoe: Innovations in Apple Software Update
Apple is making a strong push for its new film “F1: The Movie,” and during the latest episode of the AppleInsider Podcast, there’s also a deep dive into the company’s first betas of macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26. This movie promotion is unlike anything Apple has done before, culminating in a new immersive experience that allows users to engage with the Apple Vision Pro. One host had the opportunity to experience this while the other enjoyed the distant sounds of racing cars. As the hosts discuss the beta releases, they highlight their experiences with macOS Tahoe.
Engaging with an operating system on a daily basis reveals much more than simply what’s officially advertised. It’s in the use that all the nuances and features come to light. The conversation also shifts to iPadOS 26, where significant improvements have been made to the Files app. Initially, the app faced criticism for its lack of functionality, but it has evolved to function almost as effectively as the Mac’s Finder.
The effectiveness of these changes raises questions about whether the iPad will continue to be viewed as a distinct device, separate from the Mac and iPhone. In a bonus segment available through a subscription, the hosts discuss their experiences with the beta software, warning listeners not to install it while sharing their regrets and anecdotes about navigating the early stages of macOS 26 and other software. This episode captures the excitement surrounding Apple’s latest innovations and the challenges users face when engaging with pre-launch software.
Is Apple One a Good Investment in 2025?
Apple One is a subscription service launched by Apple in late 2020, offering access to its premium online services for a single monthly fee. As it approaches its fifth anniversary, potential subscribers may wonder if it still represents a valuable offering. The Apple One service includes three distinct plans: Individual, Family, and Premier. The Individual plan is priced at $19.95 per month, providing access to Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and 50GB of iCloud+.
While this package can save money compared to purchasing each service separately, the limited iCloud+ storage may not meet everyone’s needs. If you’re already a subscriber to Apple Music and Apple TV+, the Individual plan could be worth considering. The Family plan, costing $25.95 per month, allows sharing among up to five members. It increases the iCloud+ allowance to 200GB, making it a reasonable choice for families utilizing multiple Apple services.
This plan can save a collective $11 per month compared to buying services separately, making it a beneficial option for larger households. The Premier plan, priced at $37.95 per month, offers the most features, including 2TB of iCloud+ storage, Apple Fitness+, and Apple News+. Aiming at families or groups who benefit from using multiple additional services, Premier can potentially save subscribers $29 per month compared to individual subscriptions. However, it’s crucial to determine if the added elements align with your interests before committing.
Looking ahead, Apple One continues to enhance its offerings, with improvements in Apple Music and Apple TV+ content. Future expansions may include innovative features like an AI health companion, making the subscription even more appealing for dedicated Apple users. Overall, Apple One remains a thoughtful choice for those invested in the Apple ecosystem, while catering to varying needs across its plans.
Apple Moves On: FireWire Discontinued in macOS 26, No Turning Back
FireWire may be on the verge of being phased out entirely as Apple has removed all support for it in the first developer beta of macOS 26, also known as Tahoe. This significant change has led to the complete elimination of the FireWire section from the System Information app, and developers have noted that FireWire devices no longer appear in Disk Utility or Finder. There is no indication that Apple intends to reinstate FireWire support. Notably, legacy devices such as the first-generation iPod will no longer be compatible with macOS 26 due to this removal, and even Thunderbolt adapters or docks fail to recognize any FireWire hardware.
Originally introduced in 1999, FireWire, officially named IEEE 1394, was Apple’s response to the sluggish USB 1.0 standard, offering impressive speeds of 400 megabits per second at the time. This technology became essential for digital video editing, external drives, and professional audio equipment. FireWire played a pivotal role in the early 2000s with devices like the original iPod, which relied on it for syncing and charging. In 2003, FireWire 800 was introduced to double transfer speeds, yet Apple drifted towards USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt, neglecting the later versions of FireWire altogether.
The decline of FireWire was gradual, as USB 2.0 became more popular due to its speed and easier licensing. By the late 2000s, Apple began phasing it out, and the last Mac with a native FireWire port was released over a decade ago. While Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4 now dominate modern workflows, those who require FireWire will need to stick to older macOS versions or maintain aging hardware. Though its relevance has diminished, FireWire significantly impacted the industry by making digital creativity accessible to many.
It played a key role in Apple’s transformation during the rise of the iPod and iPhone era. Despite its impending fade into history, FireWire leaves behind a notable legacy in digital technology.
Grab the 2025 M4 MacBook Air for just $829 until June 19!
B&H is currently running a significant Apple sale in conjunction with its Bild Expo event, showcasing some of the lowest prices yet on M4 MacBook Air models across various configurations. The standout deal features the 2025 13-inch MacBook Air in Sky Blue, equipped with Apple’s M4 chip, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage for just $829. This models usually retails for $999, marking a $170 discount, which is the most substantial price drop available among major Apple resellers.
For those seeking enhanced storage or RAM, there are several high-end models available with attractive discounts as well. Additionally, the Mac mini is also on sale, now priced at $469 after a $120 instant rebate during the Bild Expo event. Here are some of the top MacBook Air offers currently available:
– 13″ M4 8C GPU, 16GB, 256GB, Sky Blue: $829 (Regular price: $999)
– 13″ M4 10C GPU, 16GB, 512GB, Sky Blue: $999 ($200 off)
– 13″ M4 10C GPU, 24GB, 1TB, Sky Blue or Midnight: $1,399 ($200 off)
– 13″ M4 10C GPU, 32GB, 1TB, Sky Blue: $1,599 ($200 off)
– 13″ M4 10C GPU, 32GB, 2TB, Sky Blue: $1,999 ($200 off)
Additionally, here are some more noteworthy Mac discounts:
– Mac mini M4, 16GB, 256GB: $469 ($130 off)
– 14″ MacBook Pro M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD: $1,399 ($200 off)
– 14″ MacBook Pro M4, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD: $1,549 ($250 off)
Stay tuned for more end-of-quarter deals and upcoming discounts, including those leading up to Prime Day 2025, to help you save on your next Apple purchase.
iPhone 19 Display Technology Enhances Energy Efficiency for Improved Performance
Apple is considering a change in display technology for the upcoming iPhone 19 that aims to reduce power consumption and extend battery life for users. The display is one of the major components that drain battery power, making it a critical area for improvement. Apple’s focus on maximizing energy efficiency is evident in its ongoing efforts to enhance display technologies. Currently, the iPhone 16 Pro models feature a low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) OLED display, which is designed to conserve energy.
However, reports suggest that Apple is exploring further optimizations to this display design in order to decrease its power consumption even more. According to reports from *The Elec*, the company is looking to apply new oxide materials to the driving thin-film transistor (TFT), potentially leading to significant energy savings. This new oxide application could be expanded to several driving and switching TFTs in the display. It’s expected that upcoming iPhone 17 models, set to be released in late 2025, will incorporate this technology, initially applying it to just two switching TFTs.
The driving TFT could be next on the list for the upgrade. While *The Elec* is generally reliable with supply chain information, it may not always be accurate regarding specific product features. Nonetheless, the reported changes align with Apple’s commitment to reducing battery usage. In the current lineup, iPhone 16 Pro models utilize LTPO TFT technology, while the base iPhone 16 uses a low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) method, which has a higher power draw.
The forthcoming iPhone 17 series is expected to feature LTPO TFT across all models, but the advanced design may not be seen until 2027. The iPhone Air is anticipated to benefit the most from these display changes due to its slim design and potentially smaller battery capacity. Similar considerations may apply to the forthcoming iPhone Fold, which will likely demand significant power due to its large flexible display. To implement these changes, Apple’s suppliers will need to invest in new production technologies, including a recent OLED investment by LG Display.
Mass production of iPhone Fold anticipated to begin in summer 2026.
In the most recent updates regarding Apple’s unfolding saga, the iPhone Fold is projected to enter mass production in 2026, with pre-production activities commencing in late 2025. The design and manufacturing timeline for Apple devices is notably extensive, and the iPhone Fold is no exception.
An analyst suggests it might take close to a year to finalize the manufacturing process. On Wednesday, Ming-Chi Kuo from TF Securities posted on social media, indicating that Foxconn is set to start the production of Apple’s first foldable smartphone in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025.
This coincides with the anticipated launch of the iPhone 17, marking an exciting period for Apple’s product lineup. However, the final design for the iPhone Fold remains uncertain, as Kuo reported that crucial specifications, particularly the hinge mechanism, have not yet been determined.
Despite the uncertainties, Kuo confirmed that the folding display has been finalized. Samsung Display is expected to produce between 7 to 8 million foldable panels specifically for the iPhone Fold.
Historically, Kuo is known for his accurate forecasts; however, the iPhone Fold has proven to be a challenging worth. There have been numerous claims over the years about its development and impending manufacturing milestones.
Initially, Kuo anticipated manufacturing would begin by 2023, which was later revised to 2024. Nowadays, the prevailing opinion suggests that the actual rollout of the iPhone Fold could extend to 2027, though this timeline is not set in stone.
Current expectations indicate that the iPhone Fold will feature dual displays: a 7.8-inch internal folding screen accompanied by a 5.5-inch external display. Speculations also suggest the inclusion of an under-display camera system and potential plans for Touch ID, with a price tag estimated around $2,300 upon release.
Apple’s HomeOS Launch Expected in Early 2026 Alongside New Device Releases
Apple’s anticipated launch of the homeOS platform, designed for managing smart home devices and services, has been postponed until spring 2026. This delay coincides with the expected introduction of new home hardware, which Apple has reportedly pushed back due to setbacks with Siri upgrades. Initial expectations had suggested that the homeOS and accompanying smart home hub would debut during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). However, recent reports from Bloomberg indicate that the rollout is likely to happen after the updated Siri is released, making a spring 2026 timeframe the most realistic scenario.
Apple’s plans for early 2026 include significant upgrades to Siri, enhancing its contextual understanding and integrating chatbot capabilities. The company also aims to introduce a conversational, always-on interface that will assist users by announcing tasks. Among the new hardware is an iPad-like home hub designed to manage various in-home systems such as climate control and security, as well as other innovative products like a robotic arm that may feature a swiveling display. The success of Apple’s smart home initiative relies on the synchronization of multiple factors.
The upgraded Siri will facilitate voice commands, while new hardware is expected to be showcased at a March event prior to WWDC. Home devices will connect through a mesh network using Thread control, and existing Apple products like the iPhone and HomePod are already equipped with the necessary technology to support homeOS. Moreover, the continuing development of Apple Intelligence is anticipated to significantly shape the future of Apple’s home technologies. The company is making strides to open its technology to developers, enhancing Siri’s capabilities further.
Overall, Apple aims to promote homeOS and associated products to offer a cohesive home control system across various brands, potentially giving it a competitive edge in the smart home market.
Foxconn Reports Majority of Indian iPhones Heading to the US Market
Foxconn, the manufacturer for Apple, has seen a remarkable shift in its iPhone exports to the United States, rising from 50% of its Indian production to an astonishing 97%. This change is part of Apple’s strategy to lessen the impact of tariffs imposed during Trump’s administration.
In May 2025, Foxconn’s exports of iPhones from India had already doubled, despite Trump’s insistence that Tim Cook cease operations in India. However, manufacturing iPhones in the US remains unfeasible due to a lack of skilled labor and facilities.
The tariffs imposed by Trump have fluctuated, but he has ultimately charged less for imports from India compared to those from China. Apple has consequently adjusted its supply chain to reduce the impact of these tariffs.
Recent reports indicate that between March and May 2025, 97% of Foxconn’s iPhones made in India were directed toward the US market. While specific production numbers weren’t disclosed, Foxconn’s shipments to the US were valued at $3.7 billion for the entirety of 2024 and have surged to an estimated $4.4 billion for just the first five months of 2025.
Notably, March 2025 alone saw record shipments worth $1.3 billion, but this figure decreased to just under $1 billion in May. The remaining 3% of production likely catered to domestic resellers in India.
Although Apple is expanding its production in India, it is unlikely to relocate iPhone manufacturing to the US as there simply aren’t the necessary resources. Looking ahead, Apple plans to continue expanding its operations in India.
During a recent earnings call, Tim Cook predicted $900 million in tariff expenses for the quarter ending June 2025, assuming no further changes. However, subsequent tariff announcements suggest that future increases are almost certain.
The volatility of the current administration also raises concerns about the likelihood of additional tariffs, particularly in light of an ongoing national security investigation that may lead to new levies.
Ways to Obtain Free Repairs for M2 Mac Mini Power Failure Issues
Apple has introduced a free repair program for Mac minis equipped with M2 chips that have stopped functioning. If you own one of these devices, here’s how to determine your eligibility.
According to a recent repair notice from Apple, a “very small percentage” of Mac minis manufactured between June 16 and November 23, 2024, may experience power issues. Users facing this problem can check if their device qualifies for the repair program by using the Serial Number checker available on Apple’s website.
If eligible, the repair will be conducted at no cost. To find the serial number, you can check the underside of the device, refer to the original product packaging, or look in the “About This Mac” section of the Apple menu.
However, this last option may not be feasible for those whose devices are non-operational. If your Mac mini qualifies for the program, you can schedule an appointment with any Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) or visit an Apple Retail Store.
For users without a nearby AASP, it is advisable to contact Apple Support to explore other repair options. This new repair initiative is available for qualifying Mac mini models for three years from the date of the unit’s first retail sale.
However, it is essential to note that this program does not extend the standard warranty coverage associated with your Mac mini. Recently, the Mac mini celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of innovation in the computing world.
Apple Music Sing Introduces Karaoke Mode and New Visualizer Features
Apple Music Sing introduced in tvOS 26 offers an exciting karaoke experience directly through your iPhone, alongside a classic visualizer effect. This feature was officially unveiled during the WWDC 2025 keynote, and while it may seem simple at first glance, testing it reveals a wealth of options for music lovers.
Upon updating to tvOS 26, you’ll see a new app icon labeled “Sing” on your Home Screen. This icon essentially directs you to the new Sing tab within Apple Music.
If you prefer not to have this separate icon, you can easily hide it via your Settings. To fully utilize the mic mode, your Apple TV 4K must be set up properly.
The mic feature only works with TV speakers or a wired audio system. Therefore, if your Apple TV 4K is connected to a receiver or a wired audio setup, you’re good to go.
However, if you rely on HomePods or an AirPlay speaker as your audio output, you’ll need to disconnect those to activate mic mode. Once your setup is complete, open Apple Music, select a song, and the Now Playing screen will appear.
Here, you’ll find multiple icons, including a microphone with a “+” sign. Tapping this icon will halt the current track and display a QR code for your iPhone.
Some users may receive a notification allowing them to connect without scanning the QR code. Once connected, a “Continuity Microphone” App Clip will launch on the iPhone of each participant.
Fans will find tools for managing reactions, adding songs to the queue, and adjusting vocal volume and mic effects. Any song with lyrics can be sung, making for an inclusive karaoke experience.
In addition to singing, Apple Music Sing features a hidden classic visualizer that activates only during mic mode. Access this by selecting “Visual Effects” in the ellipsis menu and choosing from options like Stellar, Neon, and Sparkle.
The visualizer remains active as long as mic mode is engaged. An exciting addition is the Live Translation feature that provides pronunciation guides for select foreign lyrics, enriching the karaoke experience.
Introduced in 2022, Apple Music Sing has evolved to incorporate these microphone capabilities, making it a preferred choice for users seeking an affordable karaoke alternative. Let’s hope Apple continues to enhance this engaging feature.