AllYouCanTech

Apple is deploying the second batch of developer betas for macOS 26.5 and its related systems. Below are the specifics.

## Initial developer beta was sparse on new features

A fortnight ago, Apple launched macOS 26.5 beta 1, along with iOS 26.5 beta 1, iPadOS 26.5 beta 1, and its other operating platforms.

Unlike macOS 26.4, which reintroduced the compact tab view in Safari and added the Charge Limit feature, it appears that the updates in macOS 26.5 will be confined to features across the ecosystem.

This encompasses suggested locations in Apple Maps, new purchasing options in the App Store, and additional enhancements.

Apple released the initial public beta of macOS 26.5 later that week, featuring the same build as the first developer beta.

We’re already exploring the system to discover if Apple has reserved any new functionalities for this update.

## Instructions to install the new beta

Here’s how to install the macOS Tahoe 26.5 developer beta 2:

1. Backup your Mac
2. Open System Settings
3. Navigate to General ⇾ Software Update
4. Click the ‘i’ icon adjacent to Beta Updates
5. From the dropdown menu in the upper right, choose the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta
6. Press ‘Done’

Have you noticed any alterations in today’s betas? Share your observations in the comments.

# Apple Unveils iPadOS 26.5 Beta 2 and More

Apple has recently rolled out new beta iterations of its forthcoming 26.5 software updates, indicating a notable advancement in the evolution of its operating systems. The latest version features beta 2 for iPadOS 26.5, along with other platforms such as iOS 26.5, macOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and HomePod 26.5.

## Summary of the New Beta Releases

At present, these beta versions are accessible solely to developers, with public beta releases anticipated soon. The initial wave of 26.5 betas brought several intriguing features, including:

– **RCS End-to-End Encrypted Messaging**: Updates to the Messages app now incorporate RCS (Rich Communication Services) for secure communications.
– **Recommended Locations in Apple Maps**: A fresh feature offering suggestions for popular destinations.
– **Minor Tweaks**: Various minor adjustments and enhancements throughout the operating systems.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to highlight that the expected improvements for Siri’s AI functions were absent in the first beta release. Sources indicate that major changes to Siri may be planned for the upcoming iOS 27.

## Anticipations for Upcoming Releases

Drawing from Apple’s past release trends, the public debut of iPadOS 26.5 and the other 26.5 updates is projected for around mid-May. Users who have installed iPadOS 26.5 beta 2 or any other 26.5 version are invited to share their feedback and any new features they encounter.

As Apple continues to enhance its software, both developers and users are keen to observe how these updates will improve the functionality and user experience of their devices.

As part of iOS 26, Apple introduced an upgraded experience for airline boarding passes in Apple Wallet. This enhancement improves the design and functionality of boarding passes, offering users a more interactive and informative experience.

Leading airlines such as United and Southwest were among the first to implement this new boarding pass feature, and now American Airlines has officially followed suit. The recent update to the American Airlines app for iPhone showcases the new features available to users. According to the release notes, the boarding pass now boasts a modern look with additional functionalities including integration with Apple Maps, destination guides, and quick access shortcuts to the app. Users can also track their luggage and directly access the Find My app from their boarding pass.

The updated boarding pass experience in Apple Wallet shows all crucial flight information, including detailed airport data through Apple Maps, the ability to share flight details with others, and quick access to track AirTag-equipped luggage via the Find My app. This launch with American Airlines signifies a major achievement, as it is the largest airline in the US by annual passenger volume.

Currently, the updated boarding passes in Apple Wallet are supported by:

– American Airlines
– United Airlines
– Southwest Airlines
– Air Canada

Apple has also suggested that other airlines like Delta, JetBlue, Jetstar, Lufthansa Group, Qantas, and Virgin Australia are anticipated to adopt this feature down the line.

In contrast, Delta initially rolled out support for the new iOS 26 boarding passes but subsequently reverted to the previous implementation due to bugs and performance challenges, leaving uncertainty about when or if they will bring back the feature.

With the new improvements, travelers can anticipate a more visually engaging and functional boarding pass experience, enhancing their journey through the airport to be smoother and more enjoyable.

**iOS 26.5 Beta 2: Apple Maps Unveils Advertisements**

Apple has unveiled iOS 26.5 beta 2, which brings notable updates to Apple Maps, particularly with the introduction of advertisements. This development marks a significant change in the operation of Apple Maps, notably in the US and Canada, where ads are expected to debut this summer.

### New Advertising Capabilities in Apple Maps

The newest beta iteration of iOS 26.5 includes a notification within the Maps application that alerts users about the impending ads. The notification reads:

> “Maps may display local ads based on your approximate location, ongoing search terms, or view of the map during your search. To protect your privacy, advertising information is not associated with your Apple Account.”

This notice suggests that while users will encounter ads tailored to their location and search habits, Apple prioritizes user privacy by keeping this information disconnected from personal Apple accounts.

### Ad Location

Upon the official launch, advertisements will display in two primary locations within the Apple Maps interface:

1. **At the top of search results**: This positioning will grant businesses greater exposure when users search for certain locations or services.

2. **In a new ‘Suggested Places’ section**: This feature, introduced in iOS 26.5 beta 1, offers users suggestions for businesses that may align with their search behavior.

### Effects for Users

Although the implementation of ads in Apple Maps could improve the app’s utility by providing relevant local business insights, it also poses questions regarding user experience. Presently, there is no option available to opt out of these ads, meaning users will inevitably come across them when utilizing the app.

### Conclusion

The incorporation of ads into Apple Maps in iOS 26.5 beta 2 marks a new chapter for the application, potentially boosting its revenue while offering users localized business information. As the rollout nears, it will be interesting to see how users react to this alteration and its impact on their overall experience with Apple Maps.

For those experimenting with the beta version, providing feedback on the advertisement experience will be essential as Apple hones its strategy for integrating ads into its mapping service.

# iOS 26.4: Major Features and Upgrades

iOS 26.4 is the newest iPhone update, unveiling numerous thrilling features, especially in Apple Music. A notable upgrade is the improvement to the Control Center’s Shazam song recognition, which now operates offline.

## Control Center’s Shazam Song Recognition Now Available Offline

With iOS 26.4, users can experience an enhanced Shazam functionality. This new feature enables offline music recognition, allowing users to identify songs even without an internet connection. Once the device is back online, Shazam will automatically provide the results of the song recognition.

### How It Functions

As per the official iOS 26.4 release notes, the offline music recognition capability records audio data for tracks recognized while offline. When the iPhone reconnects, users will receive a notification with the song information. This upgrade is particularly useful for users often in areas with limited connectivity who wish to identify music playing nearby.

### Configuring Shazam in Control Center

For those who haven’t added the Shazam control to their Control Center yet, it can be set up easily. Users can long-press in any empty section of the Control Center, select ‘Add a Control,’ and search for ‘Recognize Music’ to add it.

## Conclusion

The iOS 26.4 update introduces substantial enhancements to the iPhone’s music recognition features, simplifying the process for users to identify songs anytime and anywhere. This minor yet significant adjustment elevates the overall user experience, particularly for music fans.

Apple TV has an exhilarating summer planned, marked by the comeback of fan-favorite series like *Ted Lasso* and *Dark Matter*. As these eagerly awaited shows approach, the existing lineup remains robust and is poised to get even better with fresh releases.

Among the currently airing shows, *Your Friends & Neighbors* and *For All Mankind* have received considerable praise. *Your Friends & Neighbors* has swiftly returned for its second season, boasting an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting a favorable reception that exceeds its inaugural season. *For All Mankind*, now in its fifth season, has also been positively acclaimed, achieving a 90% rating as critics commend its compelling narratives and character arc developments.

This week, Apple TV will unveil a new show titled *Margo’s Got Money Troubles*, debuting on April 15 with its premiere three episodes. Created by David E. Kelley and inspired by Rufi Thorpe’s bestselling novel, the cast includes Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Nicole Kidman, among others. The storyline centers on Margo, a recent college drop-out and hopeful writer, as she tackles the hurdles of motherhood and financial predicaments.

*Margo’s Got Money Troubles* debuted at SXSW, where it garnered enthusiastic reviews and currently boasts an impeccable 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. All three highlighted series will continue to roll out new episodes until at least May 20.

Apple TV is offered at $12.99 per month, with promotional rates available through the Apple One package.

Apple’s promotional initiatives have recently gained substantial traction, especially with the introduction of the MacBook Neo campaign, which has drawn considerable interest. Nonetheless, another significant endeavor is unfolding in Japan, where Apple is advertising the App Store through a lively spring campaign that showcases commissioned ads from regional artists.

### ‘Embrace the next chapter with the App Store’

As reported by Creative Blog, Apple Japan’s YouTube channel has introduced a fresh spring campaign comprised of three videos that honor the App Store via distinctive artwork crafted by 13 local artists. Each video commences with a user tapping the App Store icon, which transitions into a captivating sequence of vibrant animations that highlight different apps, each depicted in its unique artistic flair.

In addition to the video advertisements, Apple has rolled out a featured story on the Japanese App Store, oriented around the “new life” season. This initiative prompts users to delve into the apps offered on the App Store as they embark on new adventures, whether that’s beginning their studies, progressing in their professions, or moving to a new town. The messaging underscores that everyone taking a new step is central to this season, motivating users to chase their aspirations.

The featured story showcases a selection of meticulously chosen apps and games intended to aid users in taking their subsequent steps, while also spotlighting individuals making advancements in various domains. Highlighted apps include popular options like Pokémon Sleep, Goodnotes, Royal Kingdom, Procreate Pocket, LINE, CapCut, and ChatGPT.

### Conclusion

Apple’s spring initiative in Japan not only promotes the App Store but also aligns with the theme of fresh starts and personal development. Through partnerships with local artists and an emphasis on the varied applications available, Apple seeks to motivate users to welcome change and use technology to enrich their lives. The campaign exemplifies Apple’s dedication to creativity and community involvement, marking it as a significant component of their marketing approach.