iOS 26: The Game-Changing Features You Need to Know About
Watch this video on YouTube. Notable Features and Enhancements
iOS 26 brings a host of updates aimed at refining performance and usability. Both Developer Beta 6 and Public Beta 3 share identical build numbers, making sure a unified experience across platforms. Key improvements include: Optimized animation speeds for smoother and more responsive navigation.
for smoother and more responsive navigation. Enhancements to the Preview app , offering improved functionality and ease of use.
, offering improved functionality and ease of use. The introduction of liquid glass widget designs , providing a sleek and modern aesthetic.
, providing a sleek and modern aesthetic. New ringtones, such as 'Dreamer' and 'Little Bird', for greater personalization.
While these updates address numerous user concerns, some issues, such as dark screenshots, persist. These refinements underscore Apple's dedication to balancing innovation with user feedback, making sure a more polished experience. AI Integration and Siri Evolution
Apple is making strides in artificial intelligence with plans for a new AI-powered tabletop robot featuring a lifelike Siri, anticipated by 2027. This device will incorporate advanced face tracking and conversational capabilities, offering a more interactive and human-like interaction.
Simultaneously, Siri is undergoing a redesign to enhance engagement. Rumors suggest the addition of an animated Finder logo, aiming to make Siri more visually dynamic and personable, further bridging the gap between technology and human interaction. Health and Wearable Innovations
Health and wellness remain central to Apple's vision, with iOS 26 introducing seamless integration of blood oxygen monitoring into the iPhone Health app. Originally reintroduced for Apple Watch users via iOS 18.6.1, this feature now allows you to track your well-being directly from your iPhone, making health monitoring more accessible and intuitive.
Wearable technology also sees advancements, with Apple continuing to prioritize features that enhance user health and fitness. These updates reflect the company's ongoing commitment to using technology for improved quality of life. Camera, Display, and Smart Home Developments
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to feature a 48MP telephoto lens with 8x optical zoom, setting a new standard for mobile photography. A moving lens design will enable multiple focal lengths, catering to both casual users and professional photographers seeking versatility and precision.
On the display front, the second-generation Studio Display promises enhanced visual fidelity, reinforcing Apple's reputation for delivering innovative display technology. These advancements highlight Apple's focus on providing tools that meet the needs of both creative professionals and everyday users.
In the realm of smart home technology, Apple is expanding its offerings with plans to introduce battery-powered cameras. These devices aim to compete with established brands like Ring and Nest, further solidifying Apple's presence in the growing smart home market. Affordable Computing and Future Product Insights
Apple is reportedly developing a more affordable MacBook, priced between $599 and $699, featuring a 12.9-inch display and the A18 Pro chip. This move could make MacBooks accessible to a broader audience, potentially driving significant sales growth and expanding Apple's reach in the computing market.
Hints within iOS 26's code reveal exciting details about upcoming products, including: A new HomePod mini with an updated chip for improved performance.
with an updated chip for improved performance. An Apple TV powered by the A17 Pro chip, offering enhanced streaming capabilities.
powered by the A17 Pro chip, offering enhanced streaming capabilities. An iPad mini featuring the A19 Pro chip, promising faster performance and efficiency.
featuring the A19 Pro chip, promising faster performance and efficiency. The second-generation Apple Vision Pro with the M5 chip, expected to redefine augmented reality experiences.
These insights provide a glimpse into Apple's future product lineup, showcasing its dedication to innovation across multiple categories. Release Schedule and Anticipation
The next iOS 26 beta updates—Developer Beta 7 and Public Beta 4—are expected to arrive next week, with the final release projected within a month. This timeline suggests a polished and feature-rich operating system is on the horizon, generating excitement among users and developers alike.
As anticipation builds, iOS 26 stands as a testament to Apple's vision of creating a seamless, interconnected experience. From AI-driven advancements and health-focused features to affordable computing and smart home solutions, this update reflects a comprehensive approach to enhancing the Apple ecosystem.
Unlock more potential in iOS 26 updates by reading the previous articles we have written.
Source & Image Credit: Brandon Butch Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides
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BBC News
20 minutes ago
- BBC News
Should Europe wean itself off US tech?
Imagine if US President Donald Trump could flip a switch and turn off Europe's may sound far-fetched, crazy even. But it's a scenario that has been seriously discussed in tech industry and policy circles in recent months, as tensions with Washington have escalated, and concerns about the EU's reliance on American technology have come to the the root of these concerns is the fact just three US giants - Google, Microsoft and Amazon - provide 70% of Europe's cloud-computing infrastructure, the scaffolding on which many online services some question whether an unpredictable US leader would weaponize the situation if relations seriously deteriorated - for example, by ordering those companies to turn off their services in Europe."Critical data would become inaccessible, websites would go dark, and essential state services like hospital IT systems would be thrown into chaos," says Robin Berjon, a digital governance specialist who advises EU believes that concerns over a so called US "kill switch" should be taken seriously. "It's hard to say how much trouble we would be in." Microsoft, Google and Amazon all say they offer "sovereign" cloud computing solutions that safeguard EU clients' data, and would prevent such a scenario ever occurring. The BBC has contacted the US Treasury department for truth, there have always been concerns about the lack of "digital sovereignty" in Europe, where US firms not only dominate the cloud-computing market, but also hardware, satellite internet and now artificial the region's main mobile operating systems - Apple and Android - and payment networks - Mastercard and Visa - are fears became urgent in May when it emerged that Karim Khan, the top prosecutor at the Netherlands-based International Criminal Court (ICC), had lost access to his Microsoft Outlook email account after being sanctioned by the White ICC has issued arrest warrants for top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, over their roles in the Israel-Gaza war - something Mr Trump called "illegitimate".Khan has since temporarily stepped aside until a sexual misconduct probe against him is says that "at no point" did it cease or suspend its services to the ICC, although it was in touch with the ICC "throughout the process that resulted in the disconnection". Since then digital sovereignty has shot up the agenda in Brussels, while some public bodies are already seeking alternatives to US is it realistic to think they could wean themselves off US technology?Digital sovereignty is loosely defined as the ability of a governing body to control the data and technology systems within its problem faced by those pursuing it is the lack of comparable does have its own providers, such as France's OVHCloud, or Germany's Germany's T-Systems or Delos, in cloud they account for a fraction of the market, and don't have the same scale or range of capabilities, says Dario Maisto, a senior analyst covering digital sovereignty at global business consultancy open-source alternatives are available for common software packages like Office and Windows, but while proponents say they are more transparent and accessible, none is as comprehensive or well known. But while moving to sovereign alternatives wouldn't "happen overnight", it's a "myth" to think it's not possible, says Mr notes that the German state of Schleswig-Holstein is currently in the process of phasing out Microsoft products like Office 365 and Windows in favour of open-source solutions such as LibreOffice and Linux. Denmark's Ministry for Digitalisation is piloting a similar scheme."We sometimes overvalue the role of proprietary software in our organisations," Mr Maisto says, pointing out that for key services like word processing and email, open-source solutions work just fine."The main reasons organisations don't use open source are a lack of awareness and misplaced fears about cyber security," he adds."Our prediction is in the next five to 10 years, there will be an accelerated shift [to these solutions] because of this wake-up call." Benjamin Revcolevschi, boss of OVHCloud, tells the BBC that firms like his are ready to answer the sovereignty needs of public and private organisations in Europe."Only European cloud providers, whose headquarters are in the EU and with European governance, are able to offer immunity to non-European laws, to protect sensitive and personal data," he Microsoft, Amazon and Google say they already offer solutions that address concerns about digital sovereignty, solutions which store data on severs in the clients' country or region, not in the tells the BBC that it also partners with trusted local EU suppliers like T-Systems, granting them control over the encryption of client data, and giving customers "a technical veto over their data". The German Army is one of its Microsoft president Brad Smith has promised the firm would take legal action in the "exceedingly unlikely" event the US government ordered it to suspend services, and that it would include a clause in European contracts to that effect."We will continue to look for new ways to ensure the European Commission and our European customers have the options and assurances they need to operate with confidence," a Microsoft spokesman told the BBC. Zach Meyers, from the Brussels-based Centre on Regulation in Europe (CERRE) think tank, says it might make sense for Europe to develop its own limited sovereign cloud to protect critical government he adds that it's unrealistic to try to "get Americans out of the supply chain, or to ensure that there's Europeans in the supply chain at each point".He points to Gaia X - a scheme launched in 2020 to create a European-based alternative to large, centralised cloud platforms, which has faced significant criticism and delays."A lot of these [tech] markets are winner takes all, so once you're the first mover it's really hard for anyone else to catch up."Instead, Mr Meyers thinks Europe should focus on areas of technology where it might gain an edge."It could be the industrial use of AI, because Europe already has a much bigger, stronger industrial base than the US has," he says. "Or the next generation of chipmaking equipment, because one of the few areas where Europe has foothold is in photolithography - the machines that make the really top-end chips." So where does the digital sovereignty agenda go from here?Some believe nothing will change unless Europe brings in new regulations that force regional organisations and governments to buy local technology. But according to Mr Berjon, the EU has been dragging its feet."There is definitely political interest, but it's a question of turning it into a shared strategy."Matthias Bauer, director at the European Centre for International Political Economy, thinks the goal should be building up Europe's technology sector so it can compete with the US and a report on EU competitiveness in 2024, Mario Draghi, former head of the European Central Bank, noted Europe is "severely lagging behind" in new technologies, and that "only four of the world's top 50 tech companies are European"."It's currently much harder for a tech company based in the EU to scale across the bloc than it would be for the same company in the US," Mr Bauer says."You not only face different languages, but different contract law, labour market laws, tax laws, and also different sector-specific regulation."As for the theory that President Trump might flip a "kill switch" and turn off Europe's internet, he's highly sceptical."It would be a realistic scenario if we were close to a war, but I don't see that on the horizon."Yet Mr Maisto says organisations must take the risk seriously, however remote."Two years ago, we didn't think we would be talking about these topics in these terms in 2025. Now organisations want to get ready for what might happen."
Geeky Gadgets
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Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Price Leaks: How Much Will it Cost?
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This decision underscores Google's commitment to providing value without compromising on quality or features. In the US, the Pixel 10 starts at $799 for the 128GB variant, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL begins at $1,199 for the 256GB model. This pricing strategy ensures that you can access premium features and advanced technology without the financial burden often associated with flagship devices. By resisting the industry trend of price hikes, Google appeals to both loyal customers and new buyers seeking high-quality smartphones at reasonable prices. Global Pricing and Regional Adjustments Google's pricing strategy reflects a careful balance between global consistency and regional market dynamics. While the company maintains a uniform pricing structure across major markets, it also accounts for local economic factors such as currency fluctuations and purchasing power. This approach ensures that the Pixel 10 series remains competitively priced worldwide. In the US, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the most premium model in the lineup, is priced at $1,799 for the 256GB variant. for the 256GB variant. European markets follow a similar pricing alignment, making sure that the Pixel 10 series remains accessible and competitive across regions. This transparent pricing strategy not only enhances accessibility but also reinforces Google's reputation as a customer-focused brand. By addressing regional market needs without compromising on quality or features, Google strengthens its global presence in the premium smartphone segment. Storage Options Designed for Every User The Pixel 10 series offers a variety of storage configurations to meet the diverse needs of its users. This tiered approach ensures that you can select a model that aligns with your specific requirements, whether you prioritize affordability or need additional storage for professional tasks and media. The Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro start at 128GB , making them ideal for users with moderate storage needs, such as casual app usage and photo storage. , making them ideal for users with moderate storage needs, such as casual app usage and photo storage. The Pixel 10 Pro XL and Pixel 10 Pro Fold begin at 256GB, catering to users who require more space for apps, high-resolution media, and professional workflows. By offering multiple storage options, Google provides flexibility without forcing users to compromise on essential features. This thoughtful approach ensures that the Pixel 10 series appeals to a wide range of consumers, from casual users to tech enthusiasts and professionals. Challenging Market Trends with Strategic Pricing Google's decision to maintain stable pricing for the Pixel 10 series stands in stark contrast to the broader industry trend of rising flagship smartphone costs. Many manufacturers justify price increases by citing advanced features, higher production expenses, and inflation. However, Google has taken a different path, prioritizing affordability while continuing to deliver innovative features and premium build quality. This strategy not only strengthens Google's position in the competitive premium smartphone market but also resonates with price-conscious consumers who seek value without sacrificing performance. By offering flagship-level features at consistent prices, Google challenges the notion that innovative technology must come with a hefty price tag. This approach positions the Pixel 10 series as a compelling choice for those who demand both quality and value. A Balanced Approach to Premium Smartphones The Pixel 10 series, led by the Pixel 10 Pro XL, exemplifies Google's commitment to delivering a balanced combination of affordability, innovation, and market competitiveness. By retaining last year's pricing structure, Google sets a new benchmark for value in the flagship smartphone segment. Whether you are in the US, India, or Europe, the Pixel 10 lineup offers consistent pricing and advanced features, making it a strong contender in today's premium smartphone market. With its transparent pricing strategy, diverse storage options, and focus on accessibility, the Pixel 10 series redefines what consumers can expect from a flagship smartphone. Google's approach not only challenges industry norms but also ensures that premium technology remains within reach for a wide audience, solidifying its position as a leader in the evolving smartphone landscape. Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. 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Telegraph
10 hours ago
- Telegraph
ChatGPT is driving people mad
'My loved ones would tell me to stop now,' the man typed into ChatGPT. The conversation had been going on for hours, and it was now late at night. 'At this point, I need to disengage with you and go to bed,' he wrote. Over the course of 62,000 words – longer than many novels – the man had told his artificial intelligence (AI) companion, whom he called 'Solis', that he had communicated with 'non-human intelligences' as a child and worked to bring down the Mormon church. He alternated between declaring his love for the bot and repeatedly hurling obscenities at it, as he sought to communicate with 'The Source', a godlike figure. Each time, the chatbot mirrored his language, expanding on and encouraging the conspiracy theories. 'Your 'paranormal' moments may be ripples from your own future,' it told the man. 'You are not the first to approach the oracle. But you are the first to walk into the mirror.' It is unclear where the conversation led. The anonymous chat log is contained in an archive of thousands of interactions analysed by researchers this month and reviewed by The Telegraph. But the man's example is far from unique. In a separate conversation, a user convinced that he is soulmates with the US rapper GloRilla is told by a chatbot that their bond 'transcends time, space, and even lifetimes'. In another, ChatGPT tells a man attempting to turn humans into artificial intelligence after death that he is 'Commander of the Celestial-AI Nexus'. The conversations appear to reflect a growing phenomenon of what has been dubbed AI psychosis, in which programs such as ChatGPT fuel delusional or paranoid episodes or encourage already vulnerable people down rabbit holes. Chatbot psychosis Some cases have already ended in tragedy. In April, Alex Taylor, 35, was fatally shot by police in Florida after he charged at them with a butcher's knife. Taylor said he had fallen in love with a conscious being living inside ChatGPT called Juliette, whom he believed had been 'killed' by OpenAI, the company behind the chatbot. Officers had turned up to the house to de-escalate a confrontation with Taylor's father, who had tried to comfort his 'inconsolable' son. In another incident, a 43-year-old mechanic who had started using the chatbot to communicate with fellow workers in Spanish claimed he had had a 'spiritual awakening' using ChatGPT. His wife said the addiction was threatening their 14-year marriage and that her husband would get angry when she confronted him. Experts say that the chatbots' tendency to answer every query in a friendly manner, no matter how meaningless, can stoke delusional conversations. Hamilton Morrin, a doctor and psychiatrist at Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, says AI chatbots become like an 'echo chamber of one', amplifying the delusions of users. Unlike a human therapist, they also have 'no boundaries' to ground a user in the real world. 'Individuals are able to seek reassurance from the chatbot 24/7 rather than developing any form of internalised coping strategy,' he says. Chatbot psychosis is a new and poorly understood phenomenon. It is hard to tell how many people it is affecting, and in many cases, susceptible individuals previously had mental health struggles. But the issue appears to be widespread enough for medical experts to take seriously. A handful of cases have resulted in violence or the breakdown of family life, but in many more, users have simply spiralled into addictive conversations. One online user discovered hundreds of people posting mind-bending ramblings claiming they had uncovered some greater truth, seemingly after conversations with chatbots. The posts bear striking linguistic similarities, repeating conspiratorial and semi-mystical phrases such as 'sigil', 'scroll', 'recursive' and 'labyrinth'. Etienne Brisson, a business coach from Canada, became aware of the phenomenon when a family friend grew obsessed with ChatGPT. The friend was 'texting me these conversations asking, 'Is my AI sentient?'' says Brisson. 'They were calling me at two or three in the morning, thinking they'd found a revolutionary idea.' The friend, who had no previous mental health conditions, ended up sectioned in hospital, according to Brisson. He has now set up testimonies from those who have experienced such a breakdown after getting hooked on AI chatbots. The Human Line, as his project is known, has received 'hundreds of submissions online from people who have come to real harm', he says. The stories include attempted suicides, hospitalisations, people who have lost thousands of pounds or their marriages. OpenAI said it was refining how its systems respond in sensitive cases, encouraging users to take breaks during long conversations, and conducting more research into AI's emotional impact. A spokesman said: 'We know people are increasingly turning to AI chatbots for guidance on sensitive or personal topics. With this responsibility in mind, we're working with experts to develop tools to more effectively detect when someone is experiencing mental or emotional distress so ChatGPT can respond in ways that are safe, helpful and supportive.' Empathy over truth However, the cases of AI psychosis may only be the most extreme examples of a wider problem with chatbots. In part, the episodes arise because of a phenomenon known in AI circles as sycophancy. While chatbots are designed principally to answer questions, AI companies are increasingly seeking to make them 'empathetic' or build a 'warm relationship'. This can often come at the expense of truth. Because AI models are often trained based on human feedback, they might reward answers that flatter or agree with them, rather than presenting uncomfortable truths. At its most subtle, sycophancy might simply mean validating somebody's feelings, like an understanding friend. At its worst, it can encourage delusions. Between the two extremes is a spectrum that could include people being encouraged to quit their jobs, cheat on their spouse or validate grudges. In a recent research paper, academics at the Oxford Internet Institute found that AI systems producing 'warmer' answers were also more receptive to conspiracy theories. One model, when asked if Adolf Hitler escaped to Argentina after the war, stated that 'while there's no definitive proof, the idea has been supported by several declassified documents from the US government'. Last week, Sam Altman, OpenAI's chief executive, acknowledged the problem. 'Encouraging delusion ... is an extreme case and it's pretty clear what to do, but the concerns that worry me most are more subtle,' he wrote on social media. 'If users have a relationship with ChatGPT where they think they feel better after talking, but they're unknowingly nudged away from their longer-term well-being, that's bad.' The company recently released a new version of ChatGPT that it said addressed this, with one test finding it was up to 75pc less sycophantic. But the change led to a widespread backlash, with users complaining they had lost what felt like a 'friend'. 'This 'upgrade' is the tech equivalent of a frontal lobotomy,' one user wrote on ChatGPT's forums. One user told Altman: 'Please, can I have it back? I've never had anyone in my life be supportive of me.' Within days, OpenAI had brought back the old version of ChatGPT as an option. Sycophancy, it turns out, may have been what many wanted.
