Russia bans FaceTime, prevents OpenAI from using the name “io” on its new device, Google Glass is coming next year, iFixit launches a free AI-powered device repair app, Apple prepares to produce more foldable phones, Google Photos on iOS gets a new video editor, and other exciting news on the sidelines…
Leak: Evidence of under-display Face ID technology in the iPhone 18 Pro
Reports indicate that Apple is testing under-display Face ID technology for the iPhone 18 Pro, slated for release next year, using a special glass called "micro-transparent" that allows infrared light to pass through without distortion. This method is similar to industrial techniques such as perforated or nano-patterned glass used to enhance light transmission in a specific area above the sensors.
The leak also suggests that suppliers have begun preparing for early production. While rumors differ on the shape of the dynamic bezel, it's expected to become smaller with some sensor components moved under the screen, while a small hole for the front-facing camera remains. Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro in September 2026 alongside its first foldable phone, while the standard iPhone 18 and the iPhone 18e will follow later in 2027.
Will John Ternos really be the next CEO of Apple?
Reports indicate that the future of Apple's leadership remains uncertain, although John Ternos, head of hardware engineering, is considered the leading candidate to succeed Tim Cook. Ternos, 50, has been with the company since 2001 and is known for his meticulousness, calm demeanor, and success in leading the transition of Macs to Apple Silicon processors, earning him Cook's trust. However, some within the company believe he is too conservative and rejects ambitious projects, raising doubts about his readiness for the role.
Conversely, other names have been floated, such as Craig Federighi, the head of software, or even the return of a controversial figure like Tony Faddell, the creator of the iPod. With increasing signs of Cook's impending retirement, including changes in his personal life, Apple appears to be preparing for a major transition that could define its future in the face of the challenges of artificial intelligence and competition from companies like Meta and Google.
Google Maps adds a smart feature to locate parked cars
Google Maps has launched a long-awaited feature on iOS that automatically locates and saves your parked car for up to 48 hours, then removes the reminder once you start driving again. Previously, users could manually save the car's location using the "Saved Location" option, but now the process is entirely automatic. To activate the feature, simply connect your phone to your car via USB, Bluetooth, or CarPlay. After your trip, a small marker will appear on the map indicating your parked location, and it will disappear automatically when you start driving again. The feature began rolling out on iPhones a month ago, and Google also added the option to use custom car icons instead of the traditional "P" symbol. Currently, this feature is only available on iOS; Android users still need to manually remove the reminder.
Apple and Google are making it easier to transfer data between iPhones and Android devices thanks to the Digital Marketplace Act.
The European Commission announced that the Digital Markets Act (DMA) is the reason behind Apple and Google's collaboration to launch new tools that make it easier for users to transfer their data between iPhones and Android phones during device setup. This feature will allow the wireless transfer of contacts, messages, photos, documents, passwords, Wi-Fi networks, and even third-party app data, making the transition between systems much simpler than before. The Act also includes solutions for easy eSIM transfer, which enhances user freedom and fosters competition and innovation. While these changes were introduced in response to European legal requirements, they will be available globally. Google has already begun testing them in a beta version of Android, while Apple will add them in an upcoming iOS 26 update.
Google Photos on iOS gets a new video editor
Google has released an update to the video editor within the Google Photos app on iOS devices, resulting in a simpler and faster user experience. The update provides a unified timeline that allows users to combine multiple clips into a single video, along with easily accessible photo and video editing tools. Users can also browse the app's music library and quickly add audio tracks to their videos. This new feature began rolling out today, while other features already available on Android, such as pre-made templates with music, text, and audio-synced cuts, may be added later.
Apple is preparing to produce a larger number of its foldable phones.
Reports indicate that Apple has ordered 22 million OLED displays from Samsung for its first foldable iPhone, a figure far exceeding previous expectations. The plan suggests Apple aims to produce around 10 million units in the first generation, a more than 30% increase over market estimates of 6 to 8 million units. The new phone will feature a book-like design with a 5.35-inch external display and a 7.58-inch foldable internal display, along with an advanced hinge and special materials to minimize the visible seam. Apple also plans to utilize new technology to reduce screen thickness and increase brightness, along with an under-display camera for a truly full-screen experience. This device is expected to launch next year alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series.
iFixit launches a free iOS repair app with the smart assistant FixBot
iFixit has announced the launch of a new free app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, featuring all its repair guides conveniently designed for phones. The app offers tools such as battery health monitoring and displays graphs illustrating battery degradation over time. It also includes an AI-powered assistant called FixBot, which helps diagnose and repair problems in phones, laptops, and tablets via text, voice, and even images. FixBot is trained on millions of successful repairs from the iFixit community, making it a practical and reliable tool. The app automatically detects the device type and displays the appropriate repair steps, and it also allows users to purchase replacement parts while ensuring compatibility. After a ten-year absence from the Apple App Store, the app is now back and available for free download, with plans to add a paid version for $4.99 per month in the future.
iFixit App - App Store
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Google Glass with artificial intelligence is coming in 2026
Google has announced that it will launch its first AI-powered smart glasses in 2026, developing two different versions. The first version offers a screenless smart assistant with built-in speakers, microphones, and cameras to interact with the Gemini service, allowing users to take photos and ask questions about their surroundings for instant answers. The second version adds a screen within the lens to display information such as turn-by-turn directions or live text translations. Both versions will connect to a smartphone and run on the Android XR platform, designed specifically for wearable devices.
Google is collaborating with Samsung to manufacture these glasses, and with design firms like Warby Parker and Gentle Monster to ensure they are stylish, lightweight, and comfortable for everyday wear. These glasses will compete with products from brands like Ray-Ban, amid expectations that Apple may unveil its first smart glasses in the same year.
A new Apple ad shows how Apple Pay can save the day in a critical moment.
Apple has released a new ad called “Outrun” that demonstrates how Apple Pay can be the solution when a traditional wallet isn't available. The ad features a woman fleeing a monster who manages to pay using her iPhone after forgetting her wallet. The ad, which previously appeared on TikTok before its YouTube release, showcases the concept of relying on Apple Pay as a fast and secure payment method anytime. Apple reminds users that the service works on all modern iPhones and Apple Watches, and allows for contactless payments using cards stored in the Wallet app.
Apple is losing talent to OpenAI
A Wall Street Journal report indicates that dozens of Apple engineers and designers specializing in areas such as audio, watch design, and robotics have recently left the company to join OpenAI, which is developing a division dedicated to smart devices. Employee LinkedIn profiles reveal that the new hires previously contributed to the development of key products like the iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, in addition to possessing expertise in robotics.
OpenAI is expected to unveil its first device next year. Meanwhile, Meta has poached several Apple employees, including veteran designer Alan Day, while Apple has announced the retirement of several top executives such as Kate Adams, Lisa Jackson, and head of AI John Giannandrea, along with the departures of COO Jeff Williams and CFO Luca Maestri. These developments, coupled with rumors of Tim Cook's impending retirement, reflect a delicate transition period that could impact Apple's future.
The court prohibits OpenAI from using the name “io”.
A US appeals court upheld a temporary ruling preventing OpenAI and Jony Ive's new device project from using the "io" name on products similar to those planned by a rival startup called iyO, which specializes in AI-powered audio devices. The case began when iyO sued OpenAI, arguing that the new name was too similar to its own brand and could cause market confusion. The court reasoned that OpenAI's size could dilute the iyO brand and harm its ability to raise funds. The ruling does not completely ban the use of the "io" name, but it restricts its marketing and sale on devices similar to iyO's products. The case will return to court in April 2026 for a preliminary hearing, while OpenAI is expected to unveil its first device next year, with the legal battle potentially continuing into 2027 and possibly 2028.
Russia bans FaceTime as part of its campaign against encrypted apps.
Russia has banned FaceTime, claiming it is used for criminal activities, as part of its crackdown on private communication platforms. This follows previous bans on numerous other apps, including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Roblox. The primary reason appears to be that FaceTime calls are encrypted, making them difficult for authorities to monitor, especially after Russians switched to the app following the blocking of calls on WhatsApp and Telegram. While the app itself remains functional on devices, the calls are now blocked at the network level and may only work with a VPN.
Miscellaneous news
Apple is facing criticism after a report revealed that its App Store hosted apps linked to entities under US sanctions, despite the company's previous promises to improve its review processes. The report showed that some developers used different names or interfaces to evade censorship, raising concerns about the security and reliability of the App Store. While Apple has removed most of these apps and asserted that it is strengthening its review process, legal experts believe that repeating these mistakes could expose the company to greater scrutiny, especially after a similar settlement in 2019.
Disney has nominated former Apple COO Jeff Williams to join its board of directors as an independent member, with a vote expected at the 2026 shareholders' meeting. Williams, who led Apple's global operations and customer service division and helped develop the Apple Watch before retiring in 2025, said he looks forward to supporting Disney's growth and development. His anticipated appointment will bring the number of Disney board members to 11, including Bob Iger and several other top executives from around the world.
Apple announced that iPhone users in Japan can now send messages via satellite when cellular or Wi-Fi networks are down. This feature is available on iPhone 14 and later models, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Users can send and receive messages and emojis with the same level of encryption as usual, simply by pointing their phone to the nearest satellite. This new service joins Apple's existing emergency satellite features and is free on supported devices. It requires iOS 18 or later and watchOS 26 for Apple Watch.
Apple has released the second build of iOS 26.2, a precursor to the official release provided no new issues are discovered. The update adds features such as a lock screen clock transparency bar, live translation for AirPods within the European Union, and several other improvements. The official release is expected within the next few days.
Apple's chief chip engineer, Joni Srouji, has confirmed that he has no plans to leave the company at this time. In an internal memo, he explained that he loves his team and his work, and that the rumors do not reflect his intentions. Srouji has been one of Apple's key leaders since joining in 2008, where he participated in developing the company's first in-house chip. His team has achieved significant successes, such as the A19 Pro chips in the latest iPhones. Despite the recent departure of several senior executives, Srouji's statements indicate that he will continue to play a vital role within the company in the coming period.
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