Blog

Apple’s Future Device Blueprint, AirPods Market Share Review, and Fresh Vision Pro Strap Information

# Apple’s Future Innovations and Recent Highlights

In a recent conversation, Benjamin and Chance explored Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman report, illuminating Apple’s expected product releases over the upcoming year. The discussion also addressed the imminent upgrade of the Vision Pro, which is set to incorporate a more ergonomic strap, improving user comfort.

## Recent Updates

### Vision Pro Upgrade
Apple is said to be planning an upgrade for its Vision Pro headset, centered on enhancing comfort with a new strap design. This revision aims to respond to user feedback and improve the overall functionality of the device.

### Emoji Puzzle Introduction
Alongside the hardware advancements, Apple has launched a new Emoji puzzle within its News+ service. This interactive element is crafted to engage users and offer an enjoyable method to navigate the extensive selection of emojis available.

### AirPods Market Insights
A recent analysis has provided insights into the market share of AirPods, revealing Apple’s robust standing in the wireless audio sector. This information emphasizes the brand’s sustained dominance and appeal to consumers.

### Emmy Accolades
Apple has garnered attention by sweeping the Emmy nominations, highlighting its increasing impact in the entertainment domain. This accomplishment reinforces the company’s dedication to creating superior content.

## Happy Hour Plus
In the latest installment of 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus, Benjamin and Chance address the ongoing debates surrounding Liquid Glass. Subscribers can enjoy ad-free episodes, exclusive pre- and post-show content, and bonus episodes for a monthly fee of $5 or an annual subscription of $50.

## Hosts
– **Chance Miller**
– **Benjamin Mayo**

## Feedback and Interaction
Listeners are invited to share questions and feedback via Twitter, Mastodon, or email at [email protected]. Engaging with the audience is a crucial component of the show’s dynamic.

## Conclusion
Apple continues to innovate and broaden its product range while achieving notable advancements in the entertainment field. With thrilling updates ahead and a robust market presence, the upcoming year is set to be an exciting period for Apple fans and consumers alike.

Read More
Most Recent News on iPhone 17 Pro and iOS 26 Speculations

### Rumor Replay: The Latest on iPhone 17 Series and iOS 26

This week’s Rumor Replay at *9to5Mac* explores the recent conjectures about the iPhone 17 series and iOS 26, offering insights and evaluations on expected features and design modifications.

#### iPhone 17 Pro Colors: A Touch of Orange and Liquid Glass Effect

Recent leaks have revealed possible color choices for the iPhone 17 Pro, with sources such as Sonny Dickson presenting images of camera protectors in five colors: Black, Dark Blue, Gray, Orange, and Silver. However, Majin Bu later asserted that only four colors would be offered, excluding Gray.

Significantly, one of the colors is rumored to showcase a unique effect that complements the Liquid Glass design in iOS 26, expected to produce different visuals under changing lighting scenarios. This design feature could elevate the device’s visual charm, resonating with the aesthetics of the forthcoming operating system.

#### iPhone 17 Air: Titanium Design and A19 Chip

Analyst Jeff Pu has confirmed that the iPhone 17 Air will use titanium in its construction, making it the only model in the new series to do so. This represents a change as the Pro models are predicted to transition to aluminum. Moreover, the base iPhone 17 is now expected to incorporate the new A19 chip, a shift from prior assumptions of the A18 chip.

Additionally, reports imply that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max may feature a unique anti-reflective display, improving both durability and user experience.

#### iOS 26 Public Beta Launch Date

Excitement is mounting for the release of the iOS 26 public beta, which is anticipated to debut next week, around July 23, according to Mark Gurman. This launch aligns with Apple’s usual schedule, although the public beta’s delay compared to previous years raises inquiries about the timeline for subsequent developer betas.

#### Conclusion

The most recent rumors regarding the iPhone 17 series and iOS 26 indicate promising advancements, especially concerning color selections and design materials. As the expected launch dates draw near, both enthusiasts and users are keen to witness how these features will come together in the final products. What are your opinions on the latest rumors?

Read More
Researchers Uncover 100 Million-Year-Old Fungi Enclosed in Amber

From being the central villain in a prominent video game and now television series, zombie fungi like cordyceps have rapidly gained traction as a captivating subject of scientific study. Nonetheless, these fascinating mushrooms and fungi have existed far longer than one might assume. Indeed, a recently uncovered piece of amber reveals that the “zombie fungi” thrived over 100 million years ago.

Besides serving as a narrative element in “The Last of Us,” cordyceps has also shown potential as a possible asset in the battle against cancer. Furthermore, discovering a new strain of nearly 100 million-year-old zombie fungus preserved in amber is thrilling for several reasons. The newly identified fungi, Paleoophiocordyceps gerontoformicae and Paleoophiocordyceps ironomyiae, appear to have functioned very similarly to their contemporary entomopathogenic relatives.

Similar to the zombie fungi we can find today, these ancient fungi produce stems from their deceased hosts, enabling them to infect other creatures and insects that venture close. The newly found piece of amber showcases an ant pupa, which perished and subsequently gave rise to a slender fungal stem. Additionally, the amber holds a fly that has been penetrated by a distinct type of fungus: a projectile-like stroma.

This finding is exhilarating because it indicates that even 100 million years ago, zombie fungi such as these were widespread globally. Based on the number of stalks and their arrangement within the fungus, it seems they can be connected to the modern Ophiocordyceps family, even though the lineage for the genus diverged more than 130 million years ago.

Of course, it is widely recognized that amber acts as a sort of time capsule from ancient times. It even played a significant role as a primary source of DNA for scholars in the fictional “Jurassic Park,” which has inspired a series of numerous films, video games, and television programs. Naturally, the likelihood of actually extracting viable DNA from amber is very low, but it remains fascinating to look back in time and observe a 100 million-year-old zombie fungus captured in stasis.

Read More
iPhone 17 Pro Renderings Uncover Eye-Catching New Orange Color Choice

A recent article from Majin Bu offers us our initial trustworthy insight into the prospective color selections for Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro. Bu obtained his information from accessory manufacturers who, historically, have demonstrated a reliable history when it comes to sharing iPhone color schemes. Due to the business incentive of releasing accessories ahead of time, manufacturers generally make a concerted effort to gather iPhone color and size specifics from Apple’s supply chain months beforehand. Simply put, information from accessory manufacturers tends to be trustworthy.

With that said, let’s explore. The report indicates that Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro will come in four unique colors: black, dark blue, silver, and a completely new orange shade.

Referring to the mockup Bu shared above, the tone of orange is bold and striking, reminiscent of the Action button on the Apple Watch Ultra. Additionally, a separate source suggests that a titanium gray might be introduced as a fifth color option for the iPhone 17 Pro.

Unsurprisingly, the iPhone 17 Pro color choices are more daring than those expected for the entry-level iPhone 17 series. As we discussed earlier this week, the base model iPhone 17 is set to be offered in black, white, steel gray, green, purple, and blue. It’s important to mention that the green, purple, and blue shades will likely lean towards the lighter spectrum.

Interestingly, Apple has traditionally utilized its iPhone Pro series to unveil a distinctive color. For instance, with the iPhone 11 Pro, Apple unveiled a Midnight Green option which, in my view, would be delightful to see reintroduced. In the case of the iPhone 17 Pro, that special color is orange.

iPhone 17 Air colors

Naturally, Apple’s iPhone lineup this year will be distinctive given that we’re expected to witness a brand new model — the iPhone 17 Air. As previously reported, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to be the slimmest iPhone ever, with a thickness measuring just 5.5mm. To provide perspective on that measurement, it’s notable that the slimmest iPhone prior is the iPhone 6, which was 6.9mm thick. It’s also essential to highlight that the iPhone 17 Air will be thicker around its camera protrusion.

Aside from its weight, the iPhone 17 Air will also be remarkably lightweight. Rumors suggest it will tip the scales at only 145 grams. To give context, the iPhone SE 2 also weighs 145 grams. Overall, the iPhone 17 Air will cater to users seeking the processing capabilities of an iPhone Pro without the added weight or bulk. In essence, the iPhone 17 Air will address a gap that has existed since Apple discontinued its iPhone mini lineup.

Read More
Galaxy Z Fold 7 Possibly Exceeds Honor Magic V5 in Slimness

This is a fascinating turn of events, to which Honor has also reacted.

What you should be aware of

– A source on X asserts, after performing some evaluations, that Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 is indeed marginally thinner than Honor’s Magic V5.
– Comparisons made side by side appear to highlight the minor difference, whereas a caliper test claims an 8.95mm measurement for the Magic V5 and 8.79mm for the Fold 7.
– Honor’s formal response indicates that the tests are “inaccurate” and that the Magic V5 (Ivory White variant) measures 8.8mm, despite the source utilizing that same device for their tests.

There’s a device comparison circulating that implies Honor’s assertion of “thinnest foldable” may not align with reality.

Renowned X source Ice Universe shared a comparison video featuring Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Honor’s Magic V5, which presents a contrasting viewpoint (via 9to5Google). The source confidently proclaims that Samsung’s latest Fold 7 “is the thinnest folding mobile phone worldwide.” Their assessment, which displayed both foldables next to each other on a table, suggested that the Fold 7 was slightly thinner than the Magic V5.

To demonstrate this, Ice Universe placed cards on top of both devices. Upon placement, the card barely dipped towards the Fold 7. Minor tests with various objects indicated that the Fold 7 indeed seems to have a tiny advantage over the Magic V5 in terms of thinness.

Ice Universe conducted a brief caliper assessment, yielding further insights. In their evaluation, the Magic V5 measured 8.95mm, while the Fold 7 showed 8.79mm.

In spite of the source’s “thorough” testing, the publication obtained a statement from Honor addressing the situation. The OEM claims that “the information presented” in the source’s video “is inaccurate.” Honor emphasizes that consumers should “refer to the actual device” for accurate thickness measurements, clarifying that this entails measuring from panel to panel (excluding camera bumps) and without screen protectors.

Honor supplied an image of an internal measurement of the Magic V5 in its white variant, accompanied by a caliper indicating the reported 8.8mm.

A competition of… thinness?

Officially (as per Honor’s statement), the Magic V5 is 8.8mm when measuring its Ivory White model. The source on X appears eager to conduct additional tests, mentioning they are awaiting a new instrument to achieve a more precise reading. User feedback has been divided on the “methods employed” to arrive at such a measurement.

Honor’s Magic V5 debuted just prior to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, aiming to overshadow it and claim the title of the thinnest foldable. The device boasted Honor’s commitment to creating a sleek foldable that still delivers the flagship quality consumers anticipate, resulting in an 8.8mm measurement when folded and 4.1mm when completely opened.

When Samsung’s Unpacked event occurred and we examined the Fold 7, we discovered the device had a marginally larger measurement at 8.9mm. To be frank, there seems to be a contest presently concerning small, incremental figures, which may not be significant in the long run.

Read More
Factors to Contemplate While Anticipating the Google Pixel 10

The response mainly relies on the model you select and your budget.

The Google Pixel 10 is anticipated to make its formal appearance on August 20, 2025, during the Made by Google event in New York City. We anticipate several announcements, including the Google Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 XL, and Pixel 10 Fold. Wow.

Yet, while unveiling new hardware is typically thrilling, is it genuinely worth holding out for the Google Pixel 10, or should you consider a discounted Pixel 9 instead? The answer to this varies significantly based on which model you intend to acquire, so let’s examine what we anticipate Google will present and how it stacks up against the Pixel 9 lineup.

Should you wait for the Google Pixel 10?

Why you can have confidence in Android Central

Our proficient reviewers dedicate hours to testing and contrasting products and services so you can make the best choice for yourself. Discover more about our testing process.

If you’re eager about Google’s most compact, budget-friendly device in the Pixel 10 series, I suggest waiting for the Pixel 10. Among all the models, the standard Pixel 10 seems to be undergoing the most revisions compared to the current Pixel 9. Here’s a brief overview based on speculation:

– Quicker processor (~25% according to rumors)
– A telephoto camera (5x optical zoom per leaks)
– Updated sensors for the primary and ultrawide cameras
– Bigger batteries

We don’t expect any significant design alterations from the Pixel 9 to the Pixel 10, apart from the addition of that third camera on the rear. This new camera would signify the first occurrence of Google including a telephoto camera in a standard Pixel model. Historically, one of the main reasons to select the Pro model was for its telephoto camera, making the choice to go for the base Pixel 10 considerably simpler than before.

It’s rumored that Google will implement smaller main and ultrawide camera sensors to accommodate this new telephoto camera. While this might seem like a downgrade at first glance, we had similar concerns with the Pixel 9a — which had smaller sensors compared to the Pixel 8a — but it turned out the camera performed well. In summary, the Pixel 10 should provide a camera upgrade across the board.

Moreover, the upcoming Tensor G5 processor, projected to debut in the Pixel 10, is believed to be about 25% quicker than the Tensor G4 found in the Pixel 9. This is significant because Tensor performance has generally been stagnant for years, and the most recent leaked benchmarks indicate that the G5 is on par with last year’s leading Snapdragon processor — a considerable upgrade from the Pixel 9.

Finally, Google is supposedly augmenting battery capacity slightly. The Pixel 10 is rumored to come with a 4,970mAh battery, whereas the Pixel 9 had a 4,700mAh battery. While this might not make a dramatic difference in daily use, it could assist in getting you through the day without needing a recharge.

Should you wait for the Google Pixel 10 Pro or XL?

While leaks concerning the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Fold reveal some intriguing modifications, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL appear less thrilling. If I needed to purchase a phone today and opted for a Pixel, I would simply acquire the Pixel 9 Pro and call it a day. Here’s what we expect to see when Google announces these devices in mid-August, based on rumors:

– Faster processor (~25% as per whispers)
– Larger batteries
– Enhanced PWM rate

There aren’t many changes from year to year, leading to a less stimulating August for fans of the Pro models. However, there may still be upgrades, as the Tensor G5 enhancement could be worthwhile on its own if you enjoy mobile gaming. A modest increase in battery sizes of about 150mAh for each model also provides just a bit more power to carry through your day. Charging speeds are likely to remain the same between the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10.

The most recent Geekbench leak for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold indicates that the Tensor G5 performs at speeds comparable to the Galaxy S24 Ultra, signifying a substantial improvement. In contrast, the Tensor G4 was roughly equivalent to a Galaxy S22 Ultra on a favorable day. This still implies that Tensor does not rival devices like the OnePlus 13 or Galaxy S25 Ultra in terms of speed, but it could be sufficient to bridge the gap for mobile gamers.

Individuals sensitive to PWM dimming have struggled to use Pixel devices for a long period, but the Pixel 10 Pro line might change this with an improved PWM rate and a potential accessibility feature for those with heightened sensitivity. As someone sensitive to PWM, this news is music to my ears, enabling me to fully enjoy using a Pixel.

Read More
T-Mobile Provides $300 Bonus for Transitioning to Its 5G Home Internet
(Image credit: T-Mobile)

Honestly, I rarely discuss home internet promotions, but sometimes a deal arises that I think warrants further spotlight. For instance, if you enroll in one of T-Mobile’s eligible 5G Home Internet plans online, you’ll receive a prepaid Mastercard worth as much as $300. It’s that straightforward.

T-Mobile 5G Home Internet is a top choice among our staff at Android Central, mainly because it’s easy to use, budget-friendly, and includes numerous exclusive advantages that you won’t find with other providers. Plus, if you’re currently subscribed to one of T-Mobile’s unlimited plans, you can easily enjoy additional savings by combining your phone service with internet.

<div data-image="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BaXZrYxQg8uU9XCVHdxC6j-200-100.jpg" data-link="https://www.prf.hn/click/camref:1101l3ZJWb/pubref:hawk-custom-tracking/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.t-mobile.com%2Fhome-internet%2Fplans" data-link-merchant="T Mobile Postpaid" data-link-text="View Deal" data-merchant-id="572268" data-merchant-name="T Mobile Postpaid" data-merchant-network="PHG" data-merchant-url="t-mobile.com" data-model-name="T

Read More
Google Phone App’s Revamped Design Extends to Additional Devices

Your preferred contacts have been pushed aside for a more streamlined appearance.

Google’s Phone application has eliminated the previous Favorites tab, resulting in a significant UI overhaul. Favorites are now positioned at the top of the Recents tab, compacted into a narrow row rather than occupying their own section. Google has also removed the “Frequents” list, leaving your frequently called contacts absent in the new design.

Google has given its Phone app a substantial makeover, subtly phasing out a section we’ve all become accustomed to. The redesign is gradually reaching more users, clearly altering the app’s usability and experience.

On Google Phone version 182.0.779772896-publicbeta, the former Favorites tab has been officially removed. Now, your preferred contacts appear in a neat row above your call log in the Recents tab. Our own Nicholas Sutrich has observed the updated layout on his OnePlus 13.

This modification emerged following a leak last month. While some may view the updated UI as progress, it seems Google has quietly eliminated an important feature in the process.

Previously, the Phone app included a bottom tab that allowed immediate access to your top contacts. Just one tap, and your pinned favorites were readily accessible.

Last month’s leak showcased an “Add” button at the end of the favorites row, likely intended for the quick addition of more contacts. However, in the official version, that button is nowhere to be seen.

The updated design leaves the bottom bar appearing somewhat sparse, with only “Recents” and “Contacts” remaining visible. While the layout appears cleaner, it comes with a downside, as Google discreetly removed the “Frequents” section. That useful list of your most-called individuals did not make it into the new configuration, and it’s currently absent.

Google Account page makeover

In other developments, the Google Account page on Android is receiving a visual upgrade, now adopting the Material 3 Expressive design language, as noticed by the team at 9to5Google.

The tabs at the top are no longer present. Instead, everything is arranged in a singular scrollable list, creating a feel that aligns more closely with the Settings app.

At the top of the updated layout, your profile picture, name, and email are prominently displayed, remaining fixed as you scroll. If you manage multiple accounts, there’s a convenient dropdown for switching between them seamlessly.

This alteration has been observed on various devices, including Pixels and Samsung phones running Android 16 and 16 QPR1, provided that Google Play services is upgraded to version 25.25.33.

Read More
New Emoji Features in iOS 26 for iPhone Users

### World Emoji Day 2025: Fresh Emoji Coming to iOS 26

Today is World Emoji Day, a commemoration of the vibrant and expressive icons that have become essential in digital communication. This year, the Unicode Consortium, the entity responsible for greenlighting new emoji, has revealed the newest additions that will be featured in the forthcoming iOS 26.

#### Who Determines New Emoji?

Although many might think that tech companies like Apple have the ultimate authority over which emoji appear on their devices, the truth is that the Unicode Consortium serves as the governing entity that reviews and approves new emoji submissions. Each year, the Consortium welcomes submissions from the public, which are then assessed and voted on to decide which emoji will gain official recognition.

#### Fresh Emoji for iOS 26

From an initial selection of more than 160 submissions, the Unicode Consortium has confirmed eight new emoji for iOS 26. The new entries include:

– **Apple Core**
– **Ballet Dancers**
– **Distorted Face**
– **Fight Cloud**
– **Hairy Creature**
– **Orca**
– **Trombone**
– **Treasure Chest**

These emoji will be crafted by Apple prior to their launch, but the Consortium has also provided its interpretations of these new symbols.

#### Timeline for Release

Generally, Apple does not unveil new emoji in the initial launch of a new iOS version. Rather, they are frequently added in later updates. For example, the most recent emoji collection was introduced in iOS 18.4 earlier this year. It is expected that the new emoji for iOS 26 will be deployed in updates such as iOS 26.1 or 26.2 later this year.

#### Crafting Your Own Emoji

While awaiting the official launch of these new emoji, users can look into creative possibilities like Genmoji, which enables the creation of custom emoji-like designs.

#### Conclusion

The arrival of new emoji signifies the changing nature of communication in the digital era. With the latest enhancements, users will gain even more opportunities to express themselves in their conversations. Which of the new emoji are you most looking forward to? Share your opinions in the comments!

Read More
TECNO Introduces Phantom Ultimate G Fold: A Tri-Fold Smartphone Featuring a Groundbreaking Snake-Inspired Design

TECNO has officially introduced its Phantom Ultimate G Fold concept, aiming to launch the thinnest tri-fold phone globally. The G Fold showcases a groundbreaking “G-style” inward folding structure equipped with dual hinges to safeguard its inner displays. When folded, the device maintains a thickness similar to current book-style foldables at 11.49mm, while its fully extended form presents an ultra-slim profile of 3.49mm.

The hinge mechanism of the G Fold is particularly notable, featuring a smaller waterdrop hinge on the right side and a larger primary hinge on the left, guaranteeing a secure and seamless fold. The device unfolds to display a 9.94-inch screen with minimal creasing and allows multi-angle hovering thanks to its dual-cam configuration, enabling versatile functionality.

TECNO is set to exhibit the G Fold at MWC 2026, promising top-tier specifications, including a robust chip, a triple camera setup, and a battery capacity surpassing 5,000mAh. This concept positions TECNO as a formidable contender in the foldable market, challenging industry giants like Samsung and Huawei.

Read More