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Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 Public Beta New AirPods Update With Features You NEED to Know
The iOS 26 public beta introduces a variety of updates designed to enhance your AirPods experience, focusing on usability, integration, and convenience. These features are available for the second-generation AirPods Pro (both USB-C and Lightning models) and AirPods 4, but notably, AirPods Max users are excluded from this update. With additions such as camera controls, automatic media pausing, and Apple Music Automix, this release aims to refine how you interact with Apple's ecosystem, making it more seamless and user-friendly. The video below from HotshotTek gives us more details on the new AirPods features in iOS 26 Public Beta. Watch this video on YouTube. Who Can Use These Features? The new features in iOS 26 are specifically tailored for the second-generation AirPods Pro and AirPods 4, supporting both USB-C and Lightning versions. Unfortunately, AirPods Max users are not included in this update, regardless of the model. This exclusion may disappoint those who rely on AirPods Max for their audio needs, but Apple's focus appears to be on enhancing smaller, portable, and versatile devices. This strategic decision aligns with the growing demand for compact, on-the-go audio solutions that integrate effortlessly into daily life. What's New? Key Features Explained The iOS 26 public beta introduces several innovative features that enhance the functionality and integration of AirPods within Apple's ecosystem. Here's a closer look at what's included: Camera Controls: AirPods now allow you to control your iPhone or iPad camera using simple stem gestures. This feature enables hands-free photo-taking or video recording, making it particularly useful for content creators, group photos, or casual photography. AirPods now allow you to control your iPhone or iPad camera using simple stem gestures. This feature enables hands-free photo-taking or video recording, making it particularly useful for content creators, group photos, or casual photography. Automatic Media Pausing: Media playback will automatically pause if no head movement is detected for 10 minutes. This is especially beneficial for users who fall asleep while listening to music or podcasts, making sure that playback doesn't continue unnecessarily. Media playback will automatically pause if no head movement is detected for 10 minutes. This is especially beneficial for users who fall asleep while listening to music or podcasts, making sure that playback doesn't continue unnecessarily. Charging Notifications: Notifications will now alert you when your AirPods are fully charged. This helps you better manage battery life and avoid overcharging, which can prolong the lifespan of your device. Notifications will now alert you when your AirPods are fully charged. This helps you better manage battery life and avoid overcharging, which can prolong the lifespan of your device. Apple Music Automix: This feature introduces smooth, DJ-style transitions between tracks, creating a seamless listening experience for Apple Music users. It's particularly appealing for those who enjoy curated playlists or uninterrupted music sessions. These updates demonstrate Apple's commitment to improving the practicality and enjoyment of using AirPods, making them more than just audio devices. How to Access the Update To explore these new features, you'll need to enroll in Apple's developer program and enable beta updates in your AirPods settings. Follow these steps to access the update: Ensure your AirPods are paired with a device running iOS 26. Charge your AirPods for at least 30 minutes while connected to the device. Enable beta updates in the AirPods settings menu. If you encounter any issues during the update process or wish to revert to a previous firmware version, you'll need to contact Apple Support for assistance. Keep in mind that beta software may have bugs or limitations, so proceed with caution if you rely on your AirPods for critical tasks. Improved Usability and Settings Navigation The iOS 26 update also introduces a redesigned layout for AirPods settings, making it easier to navigate and customize your device's functionality. The new interface is more intuitive, allowing you to quickly adjust settings such as noise cancellation, transparency mode, and gesture controls. Whether you use AirPods for media consumption, sleep, or daily tasks, these changes aim to simplify your experience and give you greater control over your device. Audio and Microphone Performance While the update doesn't bring significant changes to audio or microphone quality, minor improvements may enhance the overall experience. Subtle adjustments to sound clarity and call performance contribute to a more polished user experience, particularly for those who prioritize audio fidelity and communication quality. These refinements, though understated, reflect Apple's ongoing efforts to fine-tune its products for optimal performance. What This Means for You The iOS 26 public beta represents a meaningful step forward in enhancing AirPods functionality. Features like camera controls, automatic media pausing, and Apple Music Automix highlight Apple's dedication to refining its ecosystem and improving usability. While the exclusion of AirPods Max may leave some users disappointed, the focus on second-generation AirPods Pro and AirPods 4 underscores Apple's commitment to portable and versatile audio solutions. If you're already invested in the Apple ecosystem, these updates provide a compelling reason to explore the iOS 26 public beta. By integrating new features that prioritize convenience, efficiency, and entertainment, Apple continues to elevate the AirPods experience, making it an essential part of your daily routine. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on iOS 26 public beta that you might find useful. Source & Image Credit: HotshotTek Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Gadgets News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
tvOS 26 Public Beta: You Won't Believe These NEW Features!
Apple has unveiled the public beta of tvOS 26, bringing a range of updates designed to enhance the Apple TV experience. This release focuses on improving usability, refining design elements, and expanding entertainment options. Several features are specifically optimized for 4K Apple TV models, ensuring a premium experience for users. Below is a detailed look at the most significant updates and enhancements. The video below from HotshotTek gives us a detailed look at the new features in Apple's tvOS 26 Public Beta. Watch this video on YouTube. Enhanced Multi-User Profiles for Personalized Viewing Managing multiple users on Apple TV has become more intuitive with tvOS 26. The update introduces improved multi-user profile synchronization, allowing seamless switching between profiles. Each user now benefits from a dedicated lock page, making sure that apps, accounts, and settings remain personalized and synchronized. This feature is particularly beneficial for households with diverse viewing habits, as it enables each user to enjoy a tailored experience without interference. By streamlining profile management, Apple has made it easier than ever to cater to individual preferences. Liquid Glass Design: A Modern Interface Upgrade tvOS 26 introduces the Liquid Glass design, a visually striking update exclusive to 4K Apple TV models. This design refresh enhances the interface with polished, modern aesthetics, including revamped first-party app icons and an updated control center. The sleek, reflective visuals align with Apple's broader design philosophy, creating a more immersive and engaging user experience. This update not only improves the look of the interface but also reinforces Apple's commitment to delivering a premium, cohesive design across its ecosystem. Karaoke with the Sing App: A New Entertainment Feature Music enthusiasts can now enjoy karaoke on Apple TV with the introduction of the Sing app, seamlessly integrated with Apple Music. This feature supports iPhone microphones and allows multiple mic connections, making it perfect for group performances. Designed exclusively for 4K Apple TV models, the app ensures high-quality audio and visuals, delivering an engaging and interactive karaoke experience. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a solo session, the Sing app adds a fun, dynamic element to your Apple TV. Dynamic Visuals with Cinematic Thumbnails The Apple TV app has been updated with cinematic movie poster thumbnails, offering a more dynamic and visually engaging browsing experience. These thumbnails are paired with a redesigned interface that simplifies content discovery while maintaining a polished and intuitive feel. By enhancing the visual appeal of the browsing experience, Apple has made it easier for users to find and enjoy their favorite content. Expanded Screen Saver Customization Options tvOS 26 introduces greater control over screen savers, allowing users to preview and hide specific aerial screen savers. While no new screen savers have been added, this customization feature enables users to tailor the visual ambiance of their Apple TV to suit their preferences. This update enhances personalization, giving users more flexibility in how they interact with their device. Advanced Audio Output Features Audio settings receive a significant boost in tvOS 26, with persistent AirPlay output configurations making sure that preferred audio settings are retained even after a restart. Additionally, the update supports multiple third-party speaker systems, allowing a more immersive and flexible audio setup. These enhancements cater to users seeking high-quality sound and seamless integration with their existing audio equipment. FaceTime Live Translation for Seamless Communication FaceTime on Apple TV now includes a live translation feature, supporting select languages for real-time translation during video calls. This functionality is particularly useful for multilingual households or international conversations, making communication more accessible and inclusive. By integrating this feature, Apple has expanded the utility of FaceTime, making sure it remains a valuable tool for global connectivity. Refinements to the Apple TV Remote The digital Apple TV remote on iPhone has received usability tweaks in tvOS 26, enhancing navigation and making the remote more intuitive. The 'Find My Remote' feature remains available, providing a convenient solution for locating misplaced remotes. These refinements demonstrate Apple's attention to detail and commitment to improving the overall user experience. Performance and Stability Enhancements The tvOS 26 beta showcases strong performance stability, with minimal bugs reported during testing. While some users have noted occasional issues with the Sing app, the overall experience is smooth and reliable. These improvements reflect Apple's focus on delivering a robust and dependable platform, making sure that users can enjoy their Apple TV without interruptions. Why tvOS 26 Stands Out tvOS 26 introduces a variety of updates that enhance personalization, usability, and entertainment on Apple TV. From improved multi-user profiles to the sleek Liquid Glass design and the addition of the Sing app, this update caters to a wide range of user needs. While certain features, such as the Liquid Glass design and karaoke functionality, are exclusive to 4K Apple TV models, the overall improvements make this release a significant step forward. Whether you're a casual viewer or a tech enthusiast, tvOS 26 offers meaningful enhancements that elevate the Apple TV experience. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on tvOS 26 features that you might find useful. Source & Image Credit: HotshotTek Filed Under: Apple, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 CarPlay Public Beta Is Here – Top New Features & Changes You Need to Know
The iOS 26 public beta introduces a comprehensive set of updates to Apple CarPlay, focusing on enhancing customization, functionality, and the overall user experience. These improvements are designed to make in-car interactions more seamless, intuitive, and tailored to individual preferences. Below is an in-depth look at the most notable changes and how they can elevate your driving experience. The video below from HotshotTek gives us a look at Apple CarPlay in iOS 26 Public Beta. Watch this video on YouTube. Enhanced Widget Integration Widgets have become a central feature in CarPlay, offering quick access to essential information directly from the dashboard. With iOS 26, you can add widgets for weather updates, media controls, and even third-party apps. Customization is straightforward and managed through your iPhone settings, allowing you to create a personalized interface. For instance, productivity tools or AI-powered apps can now be integrated, allowing you to stay organized and informed while on the road. This enhanced widget functionality ensures that critical information is always within reach, minimizing distractions. Upgraded Apple Maps Apple Maps has undergone significant enhancements to improve both navigation and safety. The addition of pinch-to-zoom functionality—available in select vehicles—makes interacting with maps more intuitive and user-friendly. Expanded incident reporting allows drivers to report road closures, hazards, or accidents with ease, contributing to a safer driving environment. These updates ensure that navigation is not only more precise but also more responsive to real-time conditions, helping you reach your destination efficiently and safely. Revamped Apple Music Experience Music lovers will appreciate the new features introduced in Apple Music for CarPlay. The Automix feature creates seamless transitions between tracks, making it ideal for long drives or road trips. Enhanced filtering options for playlists and favorites simplify the process of finding your preferred music. Additionally, the ability to pin albums, playlists, or songs for quick access ensures that your favorite tunes are always just a tap away. These updates make managing and enjoying your music library more convenient than ever. Personalized Wallpapers and Icons CarPlay now offers expanded options for personalization, allowing users to choose from a variety of wallpapers and icon styles. You can select color themes that match your preferences and switch between clear, dark, or default icon styles. These updates provide a visually appealing and customized interface, allowing you to tailor CarPlay's appearance to suit your style. This level of personalization enhances the overall aesthetic and usability of the platform. Streamlined Notifications Notification management has been refined to reduce distractions while driving. Incoming calls no longer take over the entire screen, allowing you to stay focused on the road. Additionally, tap reactions for messages and expanded call response options make communication more efficient and less intrusive. These changes ensure that you can stay connected without compromising safety or convenience. Improved Live Activities and Siri Suggestions Live Activities now provide enhanced real-time tracking for tasks such as monitoring flights, deliveries, or other ongoing events. Improved animations and dismiss options make these features more user-friendly. Siri Suggestions have also been upgraded, offering proactive recommendations based on your habits and preferences. Whether it's suggesting a playlist for your commute or reminding you of upcoming appointments, these updates make your driving experience more intuitive and personalized. Updated Podcast App The Podcast app has received a subtle yet impactful update, featuring a redesigned interface for adjusting playback speed. This makes it easier to control how you listen to your favorite shows, whether you're catching up on episodes during a commute or enjoying a long-form discussion on a road trip. These improvements enhance the overall usability of the app, ensuring a smoother listening experience. New Screenshot Functionality Capturing and sharing your CarPlay interface is now more convenient with the introduction of a screenshot feature. This functionality can be enabled through your iPhone settings, allowing you to take CarPlay-specific screenshots effortlessly. Whether you want to share your customized dashboard or troubleshoot an issue, this feature adds a new layer of convenience. Future Features and Subtle UI Tweaks Looking ahead, AirPlay support is expected to enable media streaming to the CarPlay display while parked, expanding the platform's versatility. Additionally, subtle UI adjustments, such as a cleaner CarPlay logo and refined text, contribute to a more polished and modern appearance. These minor changes, while not new, enhance the overall look and feel of the interface, making sure it remains visually appealing and functional. The iOS 26 public beta delivers a robust set of updates to Apple CarPlay, focusing on customization, functionality, and user interface enhancements. From improved widgets and Apple Maps updates to enhanced music features and streamlined notifications, these changes are designed to make your in-car experience more intuitive and enjoyable. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional driver, these updates ensure that CarPlay continues to be a reliable and user-friendly platform for all your driving needs. Enhance your knowledge on iOS 26 CarPlay by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Source & Image Credit: HotshotTek Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
23-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 Beta 4: Apple CarPlay Changes You Need to See
The iOS 26 Beta 4 update brings a series of significant improvements to Apple CarPlay, focusing on enhancing usability, customization, and functionality. This release is designed to refine the in-car experience with a more intuitive interface, personalized options, and streamlined tools. While some features remain in development, the update introduces several noteworthy enhancements that elevate the overall driving experience. The video below from HotshotTek gives us more details on the new features in Apple CarPlay in iOS 26 beta 4. Watch this video on YouTube. Refined User Interface and Visual Enhancements Apple CarPlay's interface has received several updates aimed at improving visual appeal and functionality. Animations for live activities and Siri suggestions have been refined, delivering a smoother and more fluid user experience. The liquid glass design has been enhanced, offering improved translucency that adapts seamlessly to different backgrounds, creating a polished and modern aesthetic. Additionally, a long-standing issue with the calendar icon displaying incorrect dates has been resolved, making sure that users can rely on accurate information at a glance. These updates collectively enhance the interface, making it more visually cohesive and user-friendly, especially during on-the-go interactions. Expanded Customization and Personalization Features Customization takes a prominent role in iOS 26 Beta 4, offering users more ways to personalize their CarPlay experience. A broader selection of wallpapers is now available, including new color options that allow you to tailor the interface to your preferences. However, some older wallpaper designs have been removed to streamline the options. The Music app has also received a notable update. The 'Now Playing' tab now features dynamic bounce animations, adding a visually engaging element to your listening experience. These enhancements not only improve aesthetics but also provide users with greater control over how CarPlay looks and feels, ensuring a more personalized and enjoyable interface. Enhanced Music Library and Widget Functionality Managing your music library has become more efficient with the introduction of a pinning feature. This allows you to quickly pin or unpin albums, playlists, and songs for instant access. Changes made on your iPhone are reflected in real time on CarPlay, making sure that your library remains organized and up to date. This feature is particularly useful for drivers who frequently update their playlists or want quick access to their favorite tracks. Widget functionality has also been expanded, offering greater flexibility in how you access essential information. New clock widgets and third-party app widgets can now be added to your CarPlay dashboard, allowing you to customize the display to better suit your needs. These updates improve both usability and accessibility, making it easier to stay informed while keeping your focus on the road. Navigation and Driving Tools Navigation tools have seen incremental improvements in this beta. Pinch-to-zoom functionality has been extended to more vehicles, making it easier to adjust map views while driving. However, this feature remains unsupported by certain automakers, limiting its availability depending on your vehicle model. While Apple Maps itself hasn't received major updates in this release, the improved interaction tools enhance the overall navigation experience. The Smart Zoom feature has also been optimized for various vehicle display sizes, ensuring better readability and usability across different screen configurations. These updates aim to make navigation more intuitive and adaptable, regardless of the car you drive. Streamlined Podcast Playback and Future Features The Podcast app has been updated to simplify playback controls. Adjusting playback speeds now requires fewer steps, reducing distractions while driving. This improvement is particularly beneficial for commuters and long-distance drivers who frequently listen to podcasts during their journeys. Looking ahead, one of the most anticipated features is YouTube streaming support via CarPlay. This functionality, expected in future updates, will allow users to stream YouTube content while the vehicle is stationary. Motion sensors on your iPhone will ensure that this feature is used safely. However, as of Beta 4, this feature remains unavailable, leaving users to anticipate its official release. Considerations and Current Limitations Despite the numerous enhancements, some limitations persist in this beta release. Dual-widget functionality has been removed for certain vehicle displays, reducing multitasking options for users who rely on this feature. Additionally, while pinch-to-zoom functionality has been expanded, it remains unsupported by some automakers, limiting its accessibility. The highly anticipated YouTube streaming feature is still under development, and its absence in Beta 4 highlights an area where further updates are needed. These limitations underscore the ongoing evolution of CarPlay and the areas where future improvements could enhance its functionality. Advancing the Apple CarPlay Experience iOS 26 Beta 4 represents a meaningful progression for Apple CarPlay, delivering updates that enhance its interface, customization options, and core functionalities. From smoother animations and expanded widget support to streamlined music and podcast controls, these changes aim to make your time on the road more enjoyable and efficient. While some features, such as YouTube streaming, are still in development, the update reflects Apple's commitment to refining the in-car experience and addressing user needs. As CarPlay continues to evolve, these updates lay the groundwork for a more seamless and personalized driving experience. Find more information on Apple CarPlay User Interface Enhancements by browsing our extensive range of articles, guides and tutorials. Source & Image Credit: HotshotTek Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
18-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26's Game-Changing Impact on the M4 iPad Pro
The M4 iPad Pro, in tandem with iPadOS 26, has redefined what an iPad can achieve, offering a harmonious blend of innovative hardware and refined software. This combination positions it as a versatile tool for creators, students, and professionals. However, while it excels in many areas, the device still struggles to fully replace a MacBook due to the absence of comprehensive desktop application support. The video below from HotshotTek gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. Hardware Advancements: Power Meets Precision The M4 iPad Pro is powered by the M4 chip, a technological marvel designed to handle demanding tasks with remarkable efficiency. With its 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, the chip delivers exceptional performance in areas such as AI-driven tasks, image recognition, and natural language processing. The inclusion of ray tracing technology further improves its graphics capabilities, making it a strong choice for gaming, 3D modeling, and other graphics-intensive applications. The display is another standout feature of the M4 iPad Pro. Its OLED Ultra Retina XDR screen offers unparalleled clarity and vibrancy, boasting 1,000 nits of HDR brightness, a peak of 1,600 nits, and DCI-P3 color accuracy. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsiveness, which is particularly beneficial for content creators and media consumers. Additionally, the device's durable build quality and excellent battery health after a year of use highlight its reliability and long-term value. iPadOS 26: A Leap in Usability The introduction of iPadOS 26 has significantly enhanced the functionality of the M4 iPad Pro, particularly in terms of multitasking. Features such as floating and overlay windows allow users to manage multiple tasks with greater ease, while Mac-style shortcuts streamline navigation and productivity. These improvements make the device more intuitive and adaptable to a variety of workflows. The customizable control center adds another layer of flexibility, allowing users to tailor the interface to their specific needs. Meanwhile, the upgraded Spotlight search delivers richer previews and smarter results, making it faster and more efficient to locate files, apps, or information. The freestyle drag-and-drop feature further simplifies workflows by allowing seamless movement of content between apps, enhancing productivity for both casual users and professionals. User Experience: Bridging the Gap to a Laptop The M4 iPad Pro, when paired with the Magic Keyboard, offers a near-laptop experience. The keyboard's premium build, backlit keys, and responsive trackpad make typing and navigation both comfortable and efficient. Combined with iPadOS 26's multitasking features, the device becomes a powerful tool for productivity, content creation, and editing tasks. The OLED display plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall user experience. With its improved contrast, reduced ghosting, and superior clarity, the display is particularly appealing to creators who demand high-quality visuals and precision. These features make the M4 iPad Pro a compelling option for those who prioritize portability without compromising on performance. Limitations: Where It Falls Short Despite its many strengths, the M4 iPad Pro is not without its limitations. For users upgrading from an M1-powered iPad Pro, the performance gains offered by the M4 chip may feel incremental rather than fantastic. This makes the upgrade less compelling for those who already own a recent model. The most significant drawback, however, is the lack of support for full desktop applications. This limitation prevents the M4 iPad Pro from fully replacing a MacBook for workflows that rely on professional-grade software. For tasks requiring advanced tools like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, or other desktop-exclusive applications, the iPad Pro remains a secondary device rather than a primary workstation. Who Should Consider the M4 iPad Pro? The M4 iPad Pro is best suited for users who prioritize portability, versatility, and innovative features. It is an excellent choice for creators, students, and professionals who need a powerful yet compact device. Key benefits include: Advanced multitasking capabilities enabled by iPadOS 26. A stunning OLED display with exceptional brightness and color accuracy. Durable build quality and reliable battery performance. However, for users whose workflows depend heavily on desktop applications, the iPad Pro's limitations may prove restrictive. In such cases, a MacBook or similar device may still be the better option. Final Thoughts One year after its release, the M4 iPad Pro, combined with iPadOS 26, has firmly established itself as a powerful and versatile tool in Apple's ecosystem. It excels in areas such as performance, display quality, and multitasking, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a portable yet capable device. However, its inability to fully replace a MacBook due to the lack of desktop application support remains a critical consideration. For those who value portability, innovative technology, and flexibility, the M4 iPad Pro is a strong contender, but its limitations should be carefully evaluated before making a decision. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on M4 chip. Source & Image Credit: HotshotTek Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. 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