A company called Atitan is developing a device called splitR that attaches to an iPhone's MagSafe to enable Auracast support, which Apple has not yet implemented natively, potentially expanding Auracast's adoption across devices and platforms.
Amazon is offering a discount on Apple's 25W MagSafe charger, with the one-meter model priced at $30 and the two-meter model at $40, making it an attractive accessory for iPhone users looking for fast wireless charging options.
The article traces the decline of excitement around tech launches from the groundbreaking iPhone to today's incremental updates and AI buzz, highlighting how consumer fatigue, the accumulation of virtual and physical clutter, and the dark arts of product design have shifted tech from a utopian promise to a source of frustration and dread, reflecting a broader cultural and economic shift.
iOS 26 introduces a new feature called 'Ask Reason for Calling' that intercepts calls from unknown numbers and asks callers to identify themselves before ringing, helping users avoid spam and robocalls. Users can enable this feature in settings and choose from other options like silencing unknown calls or allowing all calls to ring through. This upgrade enhances call screening and user control over unknown callers.
Despite being available for nearly four months, iOS 26 adoption remains low, with most users still on iOS 18, according to Statcounter data, though TelemetryDeck reports higher adoption rates. The discrepancy may be due to different tracking methodologies, but overall, the data suggests users are hesitant to upgrade, possibly due to concerns about battery life or other features.
At CES 2026, DeskMate introduced a MagSafe charger for iPhones that features AI personality capabilities, enhancing user interaction and customization.
Loona's DeskMate is a desktop charging hub that transforms your iPhone into an AI assistant by leveraging the phone's existing features, with a rotating stand, multiple ports, and integration with apps like Slack, expected to launch via crowdfunding below $300.
The upcoming iOS 26.3 update, expected later this month, will bring significant new features for European iPhone users, including improved third-party device support such as proximity pairing for headphones and enhanced smartwatch compatibility, aligning with EU regulations. US users will see minor updates and bug fixes, but the major changes are targeted at European markets to foster a more interconnected digital ecosystem.
Apple is set to launch over 20 products in 2026, including six new devices such as MacBook Pros with M5 chips, a budget 12.9-inch MacBook, an iPad with A18 chip, an iPhone 17e, an M5 MacBook Air, and an M4 iPad Air, along with a potential new Apple Studio Display, all expected in the coming months.
Apple's Vision Pro headset has underperformed with weak sales leading to production cuts, highlighting the company's ongoing reliance on the iPhone and challenges in developing a new blockbuster product. Despite its high valuation, Apple faces risks as it struggles to innovate beyond its core product.
Apple is expected to launch several major products in 2026, including a foldable iPhone, an upgraded Siri with more conversational AI, a more affordable MacBook, and updates to its subscription services like Fitness+. The company is also exploring new ways to innovate its product lineup and services amidst increasing competition in AI and hardware.
The article emphasizes the importance of clearing your iPhone's browser cache at the start of the new year to improve performance and free up storage, providing step-by-step guides for Safari, Chrome, and Firefox, and suggesting doing this every month or two for optimal browsing experience.
Nokia has transitioned from being a victim of the iPhone to striking a significant $1 billion deal with Nvidia, highlighting a major shift in its business strategy and positioning in the tech industry.
Many users are making a mistake by not carefully considering the privacy implications when participating in Apple's iPhone trade-in program, as their personal information may be collected and shared through cookies and tracking tools, despite opting out of data sharing.