Latest news with #LiveActivities
Tom's Guide
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Tom's Guide
CarPlay in iOS 26 — 5 biggest upgrades coming to your car
This year, Apple is looking to bring some substantial changes to its various operating systems, and that includes its CarPlay automotive interface. Between the introduction of CarPlay Ultra and numerous updates connected to iOS 26, you can expect plenty of CarPlay changes in the coming months. We've picked out the five biggest upgrades coming to your cars and how they'll affect your next drive starting in the fall, when Apple's updated software is slated to get a full release. Several Apple apps are getting improvements in CarPlay, but I do want to highlight some from apps you're more likely to use often while driving. Maps will add multitouch support for vehicles that have multitouch displays. Meanwhile, Messages will gain the ability to perform a tapback, meaning you can select a quick response, rather than speaking out loud to return texts. This should let you focus more on the road rather than coming up with a reply as you drive. Additionally, phones will no longer go into full screen mode when you make or receive calls. Instead, the call will appear in a compact widget so that you can still see other apps like Apple Maps. Perhaps the biggest and most obvious upgrade to CarPlay is the new Liquid Glass aesthetic that Apple is introducing to across its operating systems. Within the new design, you can customize the icons in clear, dark, and default appearances. Dark mode puts the usual icon symbols on dark backgrounds. In clear mode, the CarPlay icons turn somewhat transparent, with an etched-glass look. Additionally, the Clear look comes with several variants: Light, Dark, and Auto. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. We've tested the new design, and my colleague John Velasco prefers it in CarPlay compared to how it functions on iPhones, citing 'the bubble that surrounds the three menu icons' for showcasing 'better separation between the … layers' of Liquid Glass elements. Included with the CarPlay iOS 26 update are some new wallpapers that are reminiscent of the new default iPhone wallpaper. Disappointingly it doesn't look like you'll be able to select your own photos as a backdrop. Introduced on iPhones and Apple Watch with iOS 16, Live Activities will make their way to CarPlay, iPad, and Mac via macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26. If you have Live Activities on your iPhone, they'll now display in your CarPlay interface, which you can use to track things like flights, sports scores, and timers, to name a few examples. Apple announced that CarPlay was getting video playback during June's WWDC 2025 event. The feature will only be available when the car is not driving and set in park. When your car is parked, you should be able to stream a video to your vehicle's display via third-party apps like YouTube. The feature wasn't available when we tested the iOS 26 developer beta, so we haven't seen it in action yet. But we're hoping it works well. The rumored CarPlay 2.0 was supposed to introduce widgets to the interface, but that ended up delayed multiple times before turning into CarPlay Ultra. However, it appears the standard CarPlay won't be left behind. Now you'll be able to include widgets of various Apple apps from a dedicated panel in CarPlay. For example, we were able to make the clock more prominent and select styles that we found more legible. Other options include calendar events, battery status indicators and smart home controls. There are other features we'd like to see, including better integration with non-Apple apps like Google Maps, but the new interface is impressive and seems built to help you configure it in a way that best suits your driving needs. Right now, all of Apple's OS upgrades are in beta form, but come the fall, around the same time of the expected iPhone 17 release, look for CarPlay to arrive with the upgrades detailed here. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button
Tom's Guide
08-08-2025
- Tom's Guide
Don't upgrade yet — the M6 MacBook Pro sounds like a game-changer and ditches the most annoying feature
All of the best MacBooks have been relatively predictable for the last few years. The 'new' design, which debuted in 2021, doesn't feel all that new nowadays, and one of its more contentious inclusions is the notch. Housing the camera, it's always felt like Apple making the best of a bad situation. Now, it appears the Cupertino crew could be preparing to retire the controversial feature and replace it with something else entirely, alongside a new OLED panel in time for the M6 versions of the machine (expected in 2026 after this year's M5 models). According to new reports, Apple's M6 MacBook Pro could feature a tandem OLED panel, similar to what is currently available in the M4 iPad Pro. And, backing up previous rumors, this could spell the end for the notch. Notebook Check has suggested that the MacBook Pro webcam could be moved to a punch-hole (similar to phones from other manufacturers), freeing up the space around it for the Dynamic Island to make its debut on Mac. This clever feature arrived with iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, and is still going strong in the iPhone 16 lineup — allowing Live Activities to occupy a smaller space on your screen. Using your music player? Tap the Dynamic Island to make it full-screen, or use it to track your takeaway delivery. Lending more credence to the idea of Dynamic Island debuting on Mac is that Live Activities have landed on the Mac in the upcoming macOS Tahoe. At the moment, they pop up in your Menu Bar, but it's not a wild idea to think we could see them in a Dynamic Island on Mac soon. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Phone Arena
25-06-2025
- Sport
- Phone Arena
Apple's newest app update just made following tennis a whole lot simpler in time for Wimbledon
Just ahead of Wimbledon, Apple has updated its free Apple Sports app to support tennis. The addition brings real-time scores for both Grand Slam and 1000-level tournaments, starting with Wimbledon 2025. The Apple Sports app had added tennis to its list of supported sports. | Image credit — Apple Tennis fans can now follow every point from all men's and women's singles matches. Scores update live, just like they already do for other leagues supported in the app, such as the NBA and NFL. Fans can track their favorite players throughout the tournament, from the opening round to the finals. Alongside tennis support, Apple Sports also received a redesigned home screen. The updated layout allows fans to customize their experience more easily. Events are now grouped by league, and users can set the order they appear in. Teams marked as favorites are pinned to the top, giving quick access to relevant scores and match updates. Live Activities are also available for tennis matches. This feature sends real-time updates to the iPhone Lock Screen and Apple Watch, so fans can follow the action without constantly checking the app. Another existing feature, Game Card Sharing, allows users to share matchup cards from supported leagues with friends. Tennis matches are also supported by Live Activities. | Image credit — Apple The app remains free to use and is available only on iPhone. While the update doesn't include tennis video highlights or analysis, it does focus on quick score delivery and basic match stats. It's aimed at fans who want simple, real-time information without extra content or clutter. Even though I'm not personally into tennis, I've found the Apple Sports app useful for staying on top of other leagues. For those who follow Wimbledon and other major tournaments, this is a practical new way to track matches throughout the season. Apple's sports app launched earlier this year and has slowly added support for more leagues and features. Tennis is the latest step in that rollout. With the new home screen experience and fast score tracking, the app is becoming more customizable and useful for different types of fans. For anyone looking for a simple way to keep up with live scores during Wimbledon, this update comes at the right time. It's a small but meaningful step forward in Apple's growing effort to build a reliable sports platform for iPhone users. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase This offer is not available in your area.
Digital Trends
25-06-2025
- Sport
- Digital Trends
Apple Sports app serves up an ace of an update for tennis fans
The Apple Sports app is getting a Grand Slam of an update, and it's one which will please tennis fans who are looking forward to the start of Wimbledon. A relatively new iPhone app, Apple Sports quietly launched in February 2024 and while you don't hear much about it, we heartily recommend downloading this app if you're a fan who likes to keep a keen eye on the latest scores. Recommended Videos Apple claims it's 'as fast as a sports app can be', delivering you live scores in real time on your lock screen thanks to Live Activities. There are no ads in the app, which is free to download, with match cards giving you play-by-play updates, live scores, standings, fixtures and betting odds. Another handy feature is the Sports app can sync your favourite tournaments, leagues and teams with other Apple apps, such as Apple TV and Apple News, giving you easy access to the latest relevant live streams and news. What's new in the Apple Sports app? The big update for version 3.0 of the Apple Sports app is the introduction of tennis, allowing you to follow both the men's and women's Grand Slam and 1000-level tournaments throughout the year, starting of course with Wimbledon. While the qualification rounds aren't covered, you'll be able to follow every match of the finals which start on June 30. The live match cards will show you who is currently serving and update you with every point scored, ensuring you don't miss a shot. The updates extend to Live Activities displayed on your iPhone's lock screen and on your Apple Watch, giving you a glanceable view of the current server, live game score, and current games and sets standings. A new Home, and a baseball boost It's not just the addition of tennis though, as Apple has also updated the Home page, where you can select the order the tournaments and leagues you follow are displayed. To re-order your followed leagues and tournaments, simply tap the menu icon and then tap 'edit'. From there you'll be able to re-order by dragging rows up and down. Hit 'done' and your Home page will match your new order. Any followed teams who are playing that day will automatically grouped at the top of the home page, even if they are from different leagues and tournaments – handy to keep a tab of those most important to you. Baseball fans will also be please with a small, but important addition to the game card as the names of the current pitcher and batter is now shown beneath their respective team's live score. The update is available now Apple continues to build out its offering in the Sports app, and with its fast, simple and ad-free experience it certainly challenges the established players in the market. It doesn't offer the same level of depth and features as rivals, but there's something to be said for the simplicity here. As for what's coming after tennis and the refreshed home screen, we will have to wait and see. Personally, I'd love to see the introduction of cricket and native support on iPad (currently you can get the Apple Sports app on iPad, but it's limited to the iPhone screen size), while I'm sure there will be iPhone users around the world hoping Apple expands availability to more countries. Something for Apple to consider for the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 launches this Fall perhaps? The version 3.0 Apple Sports app update is available now in the app store for iPhone users in the US, Canada and UK.
Geeky Gadgets
22-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Maximize Your iPhone Dynamic Island: Essential Tips for 2025
Dynamic Island, a feature introduced on iPhones, has transformed how you interact with your device. By merging live activities and app interactions into a compact, multitasking-friendly interface, it provides a seamless way to stay productive and informed. The detailed video below from Pete Matheson explores its setup, core functionalities, practical applications, and third-party integrations, helping you maximize the benefits of this innovative tool. Watch this video on YouTube. Getting Started: Setup and Activation To begin using Dynamic Island, ensure the feature is enabled on your iPhone. Follow these steps to activate it: Open your device settings. Navigate to the 'Live Activities' option and toggle it on. Once activated, Dynamic Island integrates effortlessly with Apple's native apps and an expanding list of third-party applications. It becomes a central hub for live updates and quick interactions, streamlining your multitasking experience. By allowing this feature, you unlock a powerful tool designed to enhance both productivity and convenience. Core Functionalities: What Dynamic Island Can Do Dynamic Island is designed to provide real-time updates and enable quick actions without disrupting your workflow. Its core functionalities include: Live Updates: Stay informed about music playback, timers, navigation, phone calls, and Face ID authentication in real time. Stay informed about music playback, timers, navigation, phone calls, and Face ID authentication in real time. Quick Actions: Perform tasks like pausing music, switching audio sources, or dismissing notifications with a single tap. Perform tasks like pausing music, switching audio sources, or dismissing notifications with a single tap. Multitasking: Monitor updates from up to two apps simultaneously, allowing you to keep track of multiple activities without switching screens. For example, you can track a countdown timer while navigating directions, all within the Dynamic Island interface. This functionality ensures you remain informed and in control, even during busy moments. Practical Applications: Everyday Use Cases Dynamic Island is more than just a visual enhancement; it's a practical tool for managing daily tasks. Here are some ways you can use it effectively: Timers: Keep track of countdowns for tasks like cooking, parking, or work breaks without unlocking your phone. Keep track of countdowns for tasks like cooking, parking, or work breaks without unlocking your phone. Navigation: Receive turn-by-turn directions and updates from apps like Apple Maps or Google Maps directly in the interface. Receive turn-by-turn directions and updates from apps like Apple Maps or Google Maps directly in the interface. Phone Calls: Manage call duration, mute, or switch audio sources without leaving the Dynamic Island. Manage call duration, mute, or switch audio sources without leaving the Dynamic Island. Screen Recording: Pause or stop recordings with a single tap, making it easier to manage content creation. Pause or stop recordings with a single tap, making it easier to manage content creation. Accessory Monitoring: Check battery levels and connection status for AirPods or other Bluetooth devices at a glance. Check battery levels and connection status for AirPods or other Bluetooth devices at a glance. Flashlight Control: Adjust brightness and beam width without navigating through multiple menus. These features make Dynamic Island a valuable tool for simplifying everyday tasks, improving efficiency, and staying organized. Third-Party App Integrations: Expanding Functionality Dynamic Island's compatibility with third-party apps significantly broadens its utility, making it a versatile tool for various needs. Notable integrations include: Health and Fitness: Apps like Sugar display blood glucose levels, while Heavy tracks gym workouts and rest timers, helping you stay on top of your health goals. Apps like display blood glucose levels, while tracks gym workouts and rest timers, helping you stay on top of your health goals. Travel and Transportation: Use apps like Flighty for real-time flight updates or Uber to track your driver's arrival and journey progress. Use apps like for real-time flight updates or to track your driver's arrival and journey progress. Weather: Apps like Carrot Weather provide rain forecasts, temperature updates, and other weather insights directly in the interface. Apps like provide rain forecasts, temperature updates, and other weather insights directly in the interface. Customization: Personalize your experience with apps like Shelf , which lets you add shortcuts, photos, or daily affirmations to the Dynamic Island. These integrations enhance the functionality of Dynamic Island, making it a central hub for everything from health monitoring to travel planning. Entertainment: Adding Fun to Functionality Dynamic Island isn't just about productivity—it also brings an element of fun to your iPhone experience. Here are some entertaining features: Hit the Island: A Pong-style game that incorporates the Dynamic Island as part of the gameplay, offering a unique and interactive experience. A Pong-style game that incorporates the Dynamic Island as part of the gameplay, offering a unique and interactive experience. Pixel Pals: A virtual pet that lives in the Dynamic Island, adding a whimsical and playful touch to your device. These features demonstrate how Dynamic Island can cater to both practical needs and entertainment, making your device more enjoyable to use. Whether you're taking a break or looking for a lighthearted distraction, these options add a layer of fun to your daily routine. Maximizing the Potential of Dynamic Island Dynamic Island is a powerful tool that enhances productivity, simplifies multitasking, and adds convenience to your daily routine. By exploring its core functionalities, using third-party app integrations, and embracing its entertainment options, you can transform your iPhone into a more efficient and enjoyable device. Whether you're managing tasks, tracking fitness goals, or simply having fun, Dynamic Island offers a versatile and customizable solution to meet your needs. With its blend of practicality and entertainment, it's a feature that continues to redefine the smartphone experience. Stay informed about the latest in Dynamic Island by exploring our other resources and articles. Source & Image Credit: Pete Matheson Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides 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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