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Kevin Warsh confirmed as next Chair of the U.S. Federal Reserve
In a largely party-line vote on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the U.S. Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, succeeding Jerome Powell whose term ends Friday. The vote passed 54-45, with Pennsylvania Democrat Sen. John Fetterman joining Republicans in support — the only cross-aisle vote on the nomination.
This confirmation caps a multi-step process that began earlier in the week. On Tuesday, May 12, the Senate first confirmed Warsh to a 14-year term as a Fed Governor in a 51-45 vote, clearing the path for the separate chairmanship vote.
Who Is Kevin Warsh?
Kevin Warsh, 56, is no stranger to the Federal Reserve or high-stakes economic policy. A former member of the Fed’s Board of Governors (serving from 2006 to 2011), he was one of the youngest appointees in the institution’s history. During the 2008 financial crisis, Warsh played a key role in the Fed’s response alongside then-Chair Ben Bernanke.
Prior to his first stint at the Fed, Warsh worked at Morgan Stanley and served as Special Assistant to President George W. Bush for Economic Policy. He holds degrees from Stanford University and Harvard Law School. President Donald Trump nominated him in late January 2026 to lead the central bank, praising his experience and independence.
The Road to Confirmation
Warsh’s path wasn’t entirely smooth. His nomination faced delays amid a federal investigation into outgoing Chair Jerome Powell, which was later dropped. Senate Democrats raised concerns about potential threats to Fed independence, given Warsh’s ties to the Trump administration and Wall Street background. During his April confirmation hearing before the Senate Banking Committee, Warsh firmly stated: “I will be an independent actor if confirmed as chair of the Federal Reserve.”
The Senate Banking Committee advanced his nomination on a 13-11 party-line vote in late April, followed by procedural votes this week that moved quickly once momentum built.
What to Expect from Chair Warsh
Warsh takes the helm at a challenging time. Inflation pressures persist in parts of the economy, global uncertainties loom (including geopolitical tensions), and markets will closely watch the Fed’s next moves on interest rates.
• Policy Outlook: Warsh has historically favored a rules-based approach to monetary policy and has been critical of excessive Fed intervention. Analysts expect him to prioritize price stability while maintaining flexibility.
• Independence: The big question is how Warsh will navigate relations with the White House. His assurances of independence will be tested early.
• Markets Reaction: Stocks and bonds reacted with measured optimism to the news, viewing Warsh as a steady hand with deep market knowledge.
Historical Context
Warsh becomes the 17th Chair of the Federal Reserve. Like his predecessors, he inherits an institution that wields enormous influence over borrowing costs, employment, and financial stability worldwide.
“Too Late” Powell’s befuddled disaster of a tenure was marked with high inflation (which he famously and erroneously termed “transitory” and aggressive, rate hikes, a questionable lowering of rates just prior to a national election — setting a complex stage for the transition. Powell’s missteps on inflation timing and policy sequencing have drawn significant criticism from economists across the spectrum.
Powell’s tarnished legacy also includes presiding over massive cost overruns on the Federal Reserve’s headquarters renovation project. Originally estimated at $1.9 billion in 2019 for the historic Marriner S. Eccles Building and adjacent structures, the price tag ballooned to approximately $2.5 billion — an overrun of roughly $600 million of U.S. taxpayers’ money. Powell repeatedly defended the overruns while acknowledging “the cost overruns are what they are.”
Looking Ahead
With Powell’s term ending this week, the leadership handoff will be swift. Warsh is expected to be sworn in promptly and could chair his first FOMC meeting in the coming months.
MacDailyNews Take: Welcome to the Warsh Era! Whether Warsh can deliver stability and credibility in a polarized environment remains to be seen — but his deep experience gives him a strong foundation.
Don’t let the door hit you in the ass on the way out, Powell!
On interest rates, Powell was way late to hike, then didn’t go nearly high enough, and then started cutting too early. Three strikes and you ought to be out. – MacDailyNews, November 15, 2024
Now Powell is too late to cut. Four strikes and counting. – MacDailyNews, October 28, 2025
Receipts:
In July 2023, the Fed stopped raising rates too soon. – MacDailyNews, July 2, 2024
A premature rate cut by the Fed is of higher probability in an election year. – MacDailyNews, April 2, 2024
As we wrote in February 2023, “When certain quarters, including the Fed, delude themselves and others that ‘inflation is transitory’ and waste at least a year before doing a mere portion of what is necessary* (interest rate hikes), the price will be paid for being delusional and late.”
‘Tis best to get a handle on inflation, if you know how, while you still can. – MacDailyNews, May 11, 2021
Stop the misguided crusade against domestic energy production and profligate federal spending and inflation will be stopped dead in its tracks. It’s not difficult. – MacDailyNews, May 11, 2022
For new generations, sometimes tough lessons have to be retaught and learned the hard way. As we go through this, remember: It’s always darkest before the dawn. – MacDailyNews, July 14, 2022
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Apple explores AI agent integration in the App Store: A potential game-changer for the platform era
Apple is actively exploring ways to welcome third-party AI agents into the App Store, according to a new report from The Information. This move signals a significant evolution in how the company plans to adapt its tightly controlled ecosystem to the rising era of autonomous, agentic AI.
Internal Efforts Underway
An internal Apple team is reportedly working on redesigning aspects of the App Store to better accommodate AI agents. These sophisticated programs can act autonomously — performing tasks, making decisions, and interacting with other apps and services on behalf of users — while still complying with Apple’s long-standing App Store guidelines.
The challenge is non-trivial. Apple’s strict review policies have historically emphasized user safety, privacy, and clear boundaries for app behavior. “Agentic AI” introduces complexities: apps that don’t just respond to commands but proactively execute multi-step workflows, potentially across devices and services. Balancing innovation with control is key to Apple’s approach.
Aaron Tilley for The Information::
Apple is exploring ways to better incorporate AI agents into its App Store so it can benefit from the tech industry’s hottest trend while ensuring that the software in its store continues to play by its rules, according to people briefed on the matter…
AI agents — which are capable of taking complex actions on behalf of users—present inherently thorny issues for Apple’s strict regulations on its app platforms, which are designed to prevent the apps from spreading malware, avoiding App Store fees and committing other misbehavior. For example, some agents can spin up smaller apps on the spot to perform a wide variety of tasks, which could be a problem if the agents do so after Apple has already approved the apps they live within.
Apple’s efforts to incorporate AI agents into the App Store aim to reconcile those inconsistencies. While details couldn’t be learned, its staffers are designing a system to adhere to its standards of privacy and security and prevent the more freewheeling behavior some users of agentic systems such as OpenClaw have experienced, where agents can go haywire and delete all of a user’s emails, according to the people briefed on the matter.
Why This Matters
This development comes as the tech industry shifts from traditional apps — where humans tap interfaces — to agent-driven experiences, where “apps talk to apps while humans supervise.” If Apple successfully opens the gates, it could transform the App Store from a marketplace of tools into a platform for intelligent workflows. Every app could potentially function more like an autonomous employee than a static utility.
Apple has already been investing heavily in its own AI capabilities through Apple Intelligence, with features that demonstrate on-device awareness and cross-app orchestration. Allowing third-party agents could accelerate this momentum, especially as competitors push boundaries in AI.
Revenue and Ecosystem Implications
This aligns with broader trends: generative AI apps already generated nearly $900 million in App Store fees for Apple in 2025, with projections exceeding $1 billion in 2026 from in-app subscriptions alone. Welcoming agents could supercharge that growth while reinforcing the App Store’s central role.
The Road Ahead
Details remain limited as the work is ongoing, but the report underscores Apple’s proactive stance. Rather than resisting the AI agent wave, the company appears intent on shaping it within its ecosystem — maintaining its hallmark privacy, security, and user experience standards.
MacDailyNews Take: For developers and users alike, this could mark the beginning of a new chapter: one where downloading an app feels more like hiring a capable digital assistant. We’ll be watching closely for official announcements, likely tied to WWDC26 or future iOS updates.
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Apple stock breaks $300, on track for record close
Apple stock climbed sharply on Wednesday, rising nearly 2% intraday to approach the $300 mark and positioning the stock for a potential record closing price. The move comes as broader tech stocks rebound from Tuesday’s selloff, driven by renewed enthusiasm in the artificial intelligence trade and strong recent performance from the Magnificent 7 group.
As of mid-afternoon trading, AAPL was up about 1.72% at roughly $299.87. The stock has now gained more than 20% since hitting March 30 lows, signaling a significant recovery and breakout that helps diversify the recent rally across big tech names.
What’s Fueling Apple’s Rise?
Several positive catalysts are converging:
• Strong Quarterly Results: Apple exceeded Wall Street expectations in its most recent earnings report, particularly on iPhone sales and performance in China. This helped reignite investor confidence after a period of relative underperformance.
• AI Trade Resurgence: While Apple has historically lagged some peers in aggressive AI investments, the broader resurgence of the AI narrative is lifting the entire sector, including AAPL. The stock’s recent breakout reduces the perception that the Magnificent 7 rally depends solely on leaders like Nvidia, Alphabet, and Amazon.
• Geopolitical and Strategic Moves: CEO Tim Cook is currently in China as part of President Trump’s delegation for a high-profile summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This high-level engagement could signal continued efforts to strengthen Apple’s critical supply chain and market presence in the region.
Investors had previously penalized Apple shares for its comparatively measured approach to AI compared to hyperscalers. However, the combination of solid fundamentals and sector tailwinds appears to be shifting sentiment in Cupertino’s favor.
With the stock now knocking on the door of all-time highs, analysts and investors will be watching closely to see if Apple can sustain this momentum heading into the second half of the year. Key upcoming focuses include WWDC26 in June, where it’s expected Apple will relate progress on AI features across its product lineup following any further developments from Cook’s trip to China.
MacDailyNews Take: $300! Finally! After a long period of stagnation, it turned out that all we really needed was a new CEO.
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Apple slams EU’s push to force Google to share Android access with AI rivals, citing privacy and security risks
In a significant development in the ongoing battle over Big Tech regulation in Europe, Apple has strongly criticized European Union antitrust measures aimed at compelling Google to open up its Android ecosystem to competing AI services.
The tech giant echoed Google’s own concerns, warning that the proposed rules under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) could undermine user privacy, security, and device safety at a time when AI capabilities are evolving rapidly and unpredictably.
What the EU Wants
Last month, the European Commission outlined draft measures designed to help rival AI services interact more deeply with Android apps. This would allow competing AI tools to perform tasks on behalf of users — such as sending emails, ordering food, or sharing photos — directly through Google’s platform. The goal is to prevent Google from dominating the emerging AI assistant space and to promote greater competition.
Apple’s Strong Objection
In its formal submission to the EU, Apple didn’t hold back:
“The DMs (draft measures) raise urgent and serious concerns. If confirmed, they would create profound risks for user privacy, security, and safety as well as device integrity and performance.”
Apple went further, highlighting the unpredictable nature of rapidly advancing AI systems:
“Those risks are especially acute in the context of rapidly evolving AI systems whose capabilities, behaviours, and threat vectors remain unpredictable as we are now seeing time and again.”
The company also questioned the regulator’s approach, accusing the European Commission of attempting to redesign Google’s operating system with limited technical review:
“The EC is redesigning an OS (operating system). It is substituting judgments made by Google’s engineers for its own judgment based on less than three months of work… The only value that can be discerned… appears to be open and unfettered access.”
Why Apple Cares
Although the immediate measures target Google’s Android, Apple has a vested interest. The iPhone maker is itself subject to EU demands to open up its tightly controlled iOS ecosystem. Apple sees the Google case as setting a dangerous precedent for how platforms must grant third-party AI access to hardware, permissions, and user data.
Broader Implications
This isn’t just another antitrust spat. It touches on the core tension in AI regulation: how to foster competition without compromising the very safeguards that keep users’ devices secure in an era of sophisticated AI agents.
Apple and Google are aligned here, both arguing that heavy-handed regulatory intervention risks creating more problems than it solves, especially around privacy and security.
As the EU continues its aggressive push within digital markets, expect more pushback from U.S. tech giants. The outcome of this consultation could shape how AI assistants operate on billions of devices worldwide for years to come.
MacDailyNews Take: Most of the European Union’s so-called “antitrust” measures are little more than legalized theft — extracting value from innovative American companies to prop up a declining continent strangled by bureaucratic red tape and incapable of fostering its own technological breakthroughs.
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Israeli thriller ‘Unconditional’ only gets more absurd (and addictively fun) with every episode – Variety
“Unconditional” follows a mother-daughter vacation-turned-nightmare when 25-year-old Gali (Talia Lynne Ronn) is arrested for drug smuggling in Moscow. Her mother, Orna (Liraz Chamami), refuses to accept the charges — but her fight for Gali’s freedom pulls her into a deadly web of crime and corruption.
Despite what the obligatory disclaimer before each episode may say, the Israeli thriller “Unconditional” — which aired on Keshet 12 in its country of origin last month before coming to Apple TV in the U.S. — is clearly inspired by real-life events.
When 23-year-old Gali (Talia Lynne Ronn, in her on screen debut) is abruptly detained in the Moscow airport and indicted on trumped-up drug trafficking charges, her case clearly recalls those of high-profile detainees like Brittney Griner, Evan Gershkovich and Naama Issachar, who like Gali was arrested en route from India to Tel Aviv in 2019 before receiving a personal pardon from Vladimir Putin in 2020.
But as Gali’s mother Orna (Liraz Chamami) works to liberate her only child from captivity, “Unconditional” grows increasingly unmoored from reality. That’s mostly for the better…
MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.
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CNET Survey: 14% of iPhone owners motivated by foldables — that’s 224 million potential foldable iPhone sales
Apple has been rumored for years to be working on a folding iPhone. In fact, the first foldable iPhone is expected to be unveiled this year.
According to a new CNET survey of U.S. smartphone owners conducted in late April/early May 2026, interest in these new form factors exists but remains far from overwhelming. Of course, this is prior to Apple’s releases and subsequent marketing effort.
The survey of 2,407 U.S. smartphone owners found that 14% said they would be motivated to upgrade specifically for “new phone designs, such as a foldable or flip phone.” Practical concerns still dominate: price (55%) and longer battery life (52%) ranked much higher, while AI features sat at just 12%.
For Apple, however, even this 14% interest level represents a massive opportunity when applied to its enormous installed base.
Apple currently has approximately 1.6 billion active iPhones worldwide. If iPhone owners mirror the overall U.S. smartphone population’s interest in foldables — a reasonable assumption given Apple’s track record of popularizing premium features — that 14% equates to roughly 224 million potential folding iPhone sales.
To put that number in context: Apple shipped a record 247 million iPhones in 2025. A folding model that successfully captured the interest of just 14% of existing owners could nearly match an entire year’s current shipment volume — all from upgrades within Apple’s own ecosystem.
Of course, not every interested owner will upgrade right away. Pricing, reliability, trade-in offers, and carrier promotions will all influence actual conversion rates. The survey also reflects U.S. respondents, while Apple’s user base is global. Still, the raw potential is enormous: 224 million units is the kind of upside that could significantly boost Apple’s growth in a saturated smartphone market.
Samsung has sold tens of millions of foldables over the past several years, yet they still make up only a small percentage of total smartphone sales. Most buyers continue to prioritize battery life, camera improvements, and especially value over novel designs.
The CNET data makes one thing clear for Apple: a folding iPhone doesn’t need universal appeal to be a major success. Capturing even a committed slice of its user base would be enough to drive record-breaking upgrade cycles and open a powerful new revenue stream.
MacDailyNews Take: The math is compelling. Apple already has the customer base. It simply needs to deliver a durable, desirable folding iPhone experience compelling enough to convert that 14% curiosity into purchases. (And, again, that 14% will grow with the foldable iPhone’s unveiling and marketing.) If it does, 224 million potential sales makes the long wait for a folding iPhone very worthwhile for both Apple and iPhone users.
Now, that you’ve read our report and Take, please go to CNET and read how differently they approach the numbers they found here. Keep in mind that CNET never mentions just how many iPhone users are represented by 14%.
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Elite group of American CEOs – outgoing Apple CEO Cook among them – join President Trump in China
President Donald Trump has assembled an elite group of CEOs — representing the pinnacle of American business — to join his high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The roster speaks volumes about the current state of the U.S. economy and what’s on the line in the coming days. Apple’s Tim Cook is also making the trip. The outgoing CEO was in Beijing just last month to mark the company’s 50th anniversary and has built a strong relationship with China.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s late inclusion on Air Force One to China suggests that tech, and chips in particular may be a hot topic on the trip… The sector is well represented with Micron’s Sanjay Mehrotra and Qualcomm’s Cristiano Amon also on board Air Force… Mehrotra’s presence may turn heads as China banned the use of Micron chips in critical infrastructure in 2023 through 2030.
The presence of Tesla CEO Elon Musk is also interesting and adds to the emphasis on all things AI.
But the elite cohort features almost as many financial company CEOs. Citi’s Jane Fraser, Goldman Sachs’ David Solomon, BlackRock’s Larry Fink and Blackstone’s Stephen Schwarzman were all name-dropped by Trump.
American’s manufacturing muscle will also be flexed — Boeing’s Kelly Ortberg, GE Aerospace’s Larry Culp are there too along with the CEO of private agricultural giant Cargill, Brian Sikes. Visa CEO Ryan McInerney, Meta President Dina Powell McCormick, Coherent CEO Jim Anderson and Illumina CEO Jacob Thaysen are also heading to China…
Trump said he will be asking Xi to “‘open up’ China so that these brilliant people can work their magic,” in his Truth Social post.
It’s a good list to be on.
MacDailyNews Note: President Trump’s post via Truth Social:
It is an Honor to have Jensen, Elon, Tim Apple, Larry Fink, Stephen Schwarzmann, Kelly Ortberg (Boeing), Brian Sikes (Cargill), Jane Fraser (Citi), Larry Culp (GE Aerospace), David Solomon (Goldman Sachs), Sanjay Mehrotra (Micron), Cristiano Amon (Qualcomm), and many others journeying to the Great Country of China where I will be asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to “open up” China so that these brilliant people can work their magic, and help bring the People’s Republic to an even higher level! In fact, I promise, that when we are together, which will be in a matter of hours, I will make that my very first request. I have never seen or heard of any idea that would be more beneficial to our incredible Countries! President DONALD J. TRUMP – May 12, 2026 at 11:09 PM EDT
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Ted Lasso actor Cristo Fernández signs pro contract with U.S. second-tier club El Paso Locomotive FC
Cristo Fernández, best known for playing footballer Dani Rojas in the hit Apple TV series “Ted Lasso,” has turned his on-screen role into reality by signing a professional contract with U.S. second-tier club El Paso Locomotive FC. He also appeared as Gustavo in Apple TV’s “Acapulco” (Season 3).
The actor, who played youth football in Mexico before a knee injury forced him to step away from the sport at age 15, will now take to the pitch for real.
Alongside his acting career, the 35-year-old Fernandez has been working toward a professional football comeback. He trained with Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire’s reserve team earlier this year.
Before signing with El Paso Locomotive FC on Tuesday, he completed a two-month trial with the USL Championship club that also included a pre-season appearance.
Reuters:
“(Football) has always been a huge part of my life and identity, and no matter where life has taken me, the dream of competing professionally never truly left my heart,” Fernandez said on the club website. “Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams.”
El Paso, founded in 2018, are fourth in Group B of the USL Championship standings.
“Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line,” the club’s head coach Junior Gonzalez said. “His passion for the game and leadership qualities for our locker room allow us to continue growing the positive culture we strive for as a club.”
MacDailyNews Take: Football is life! Good luck, Cristo!
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Apple’s all-new Siri to get standalone app, chatbot interface, and always-on agent powers
According to Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman, Apple is completely rebuilding Siri in iOS 27, transforming it from a traditional voice assistant into an always-on intelligent agent. The new Siri will tap into personal data and take actions across apps, while gaining a redesigned chatbot interface for natural back-and-forth conversations that matches the look of ChatGPT, Gemini, and similar apps.
Siri will now appear in the Dynamic Island. Activating it with the wake word or by holding the power button will trigger a large, animated Siri graphic at the top center of the screen.
Users can also bring up a new system search by swiping down from the top center anywhere on the screen, which displays a “Search or Ask” bar in the Dynamic Island. Once engaged, users can swipe down a transparent results card to enter a full chatbot conversation mode that resembles a text message thread, complete with inline mini app cards for quick results like weather, calendar events, and notes.
Mark Gurman for Bloomberg News:
• When users engage with Siri, they can swipe a transparent results card down to enter into a chatbot conversation mode, which looks similar to a text message thread. This interface has in-line mini app cards to see results for things like the weather, upcoming appointments and notes.
• The “Search or Ask” interface looks similar to Spotlight Search on an iPhone today, but can show more advanced results and additional data from within apps. Users can press the search bar to toggle between using Siri or third-party offerings like ChatGPT or Gemini as their search engine.
• The “Search or Ask” bar also has a microphone icon on the right side for a voice mode.
• Another key Siri addition is AI-powered search from the open web, which allows general-knowledge questions to get detailed answers for the first time. That includes supplying bullet points of information from the web and large images.
• Siri will have a standalone app for the first time [since it was purchased by Apple. (Siri was initially released as an app for iPhoneOS in February 2010, two months before it was purchased by Apple)]. The main page of that software includes a grid of tall, round rectangles that summarize prior Siri conversations. Users can jump into those to continue their chats. There’s also a search bar to locate past results and a “+” to begin a new chat.
• Inside the Siri app and chatbot view, the bottom of the app has a “+” button for uploading images and documents. The area to type in a query, meanwhile, is labeled “Ask Siri.” There’s also a microphone here to activate the voice input mode.
MacDailyNews Take: Our little birdies still chirp that “Apple’s new Siri will prove to be very much worth the wait!”
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Apple plans fully customizable Camera app in iOS 27
Apple plans to make its Camera app fully customizable in the next iPhone software update as part of a wider user interface overhaul, Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman reports.
Users will be able to select which controls appear in the app and where they are positioned, including options for flash, exposure, timer, and resolution.
Mark Gurman for Bloomberg News:
• Apple is planning to make the Camera app interface fully customizable so users can pick their own set of controls — called widgets — that run along the top of the interface.
• The app will continue to launch with the same default set as today, including toggles for resolution, night mode, flash and live photos, but users will be able to switch over to an “advanced” array of options or choose their own items.
• Each capture mode has its own set of widgets, which can be picked from a transparent “Add Widgets” tray that slides up from the bottom of the app.
• The Photo mode’s advanced options tray includes depth-of-field and exposure controls, while the widgets are split into categories of “basic,” “manual” and “settings.” Users can also swap in controls for the timer and photo styles. And there are new grid and level options inside the app itself.
MacDailyNews Take: Finally!
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Apple TV’s ‘The Stormlight Archive’ series could run for 10 or more seasons
Apple TV is betting big on the next major fantasy franchise, “The Stormlight Archive,” securing the screen rights to Brandon Sanderson’s expansive Cosmere universe in what sources describe as an unprecedented deal.
This is a major coup for Apple TV which is now positioned to potentially build a sprawling, interconnected fantasy epic on par with The Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, or the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but rooted in Sanderson’s meticulously crafted magic systems and cosmology.
The Stormlight Archive series could run into the 2040s on Apple TV.
Amanda Mullen for ComicBook:
Supernatural is a rare example of one surpassing 10 seasons, but even hits like Game of Thrones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and The Vampire Diaries clock in around 7-8 outings. There’s one exciting adaptation that could reach double-digit seasons, however, now that Apple TV is tackling the Cosmere. Depending on how many books from Brandon Sanderson’s fantasy universe the streamer adapts, its biggest show could even last into the 2040s. There’ll be more than enough material for it to last all those years.
With The Stormlight Archive set to become a TV show, the upcoming Wheel of Time remake isn’t the only project with the potential to span 10+ seasons. Sanderson’s epic currently consists of five books — each of which clocks in at 1,000+ pages — and he intends to write a second arc, which will feature five more novels. That’s not to mention that The Stormlight Archive novellas, which could add episodes here and there. It’s certainly enough material to warrant such a long run, especially if Apple TV dedicates one outing to each book. With the books being as long as they are, they could also span multiple seasons.
Such a massive run would likely bring The Stormlight Archive into the 2040s, especially accounting for the need to release the next five books first. If Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive are successful, it’s also possible that seasons of the latter will be broken up by spinoffs based on other Cosmere novels. With so much to cover, it’s easy to imagine Apple TV’s fantasy show spanning decades.
MacDailyNews Take: Apple TV is the No.1 must-have streaming service for science fiction and, soon, science fantasy fans!
If any streamer can be trusted to do things right, it’s Apple TV with its already proven track record of producing compelling high quality series and films. – MacDailyNews, February 5, 2026
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Join Bluey in the ultimate crossover on Apple Arcade in hit games Crossy Road Castle, stitch., puffies., Suika Game+, and Disney Coloring World+
The beloved characters from the Emmy-winning animated series Bluey are coming to Apple Arcade for a massive, limited-time crossover event starting May 21. Bluey and her family are taking over five fan-favorite games with exclusive updates across Crossy Road Castle, stitch., puffies., Suika Game+, and Disney Coloring World+. Best of all, families can dive into these new experiences together without interruptions from ads or in-app purchases.
“As we continue to grow Bluey in interactive, it’s important that each experience reflects what families love about the brand — its playfulness and creativity, and how it brings people of all ages together,” said Marina Mello, BBC Studios’ global director of Gaming & Interactive, in a statement. “Apple Arcade stands out for its commitment to quality and a safe, frictionless experience for families, making it a natural fit for these limited-time experiences designed to be enjoyed together.”
Players can try the “trifficult” but incredibly fun obstacle course at Bluey and Bingo’s house in Crossy Road Castle. With co-op for one to four players, they can grab their friends and family and make it through together, dodging yoga balls and mischievous garden gnomes. New characters will join Bluey and Bingo every two weeks, and players can complete the challenges to unlock their favorite characters from the series, including a few secret ones. Plus, once they unlock Bluey’s house, they’ll get to keep it in-game after the event ends.
Players can also drop in with Bluey to match fruits and watch the fun grow in Suika Game+, complete beautiful Bluey-themed hoops in stitch., and bring dazzling Bluey pages to life in Disney Coloring World+. Starting June 10, players can solve delightful puzzles featuring iconic Bluey episodes and build their very own sticker collection in puffies.
These in-game events run through June 24 for stitch.; July 8 for puffies.; and July 21 for Crossy Road Castle, Suika Game+, and Disney Coloring World+.
In addition to the special crossovers, the service is expanding its catalog with four exciting new games launching June 4: Mini Football Legends, My Talking Tom 2+, Coffee Inc 2+, and FreeCell Solitaire: Card Game+.
Just in time for the World Cup, Mini Football Legends brings a fun arcade-style soccer experience to Apple Arcade, allowing players to build, train, and manage their own legendary team. Fans can chase championship glory through thrilling solo tournaments, or team up with friends for action-packed local co-op and multiplayer matches.
Additionally, three popular games from the App Store join the service on June 4. From the creator of the hit games My Talking Angela 2+ and Talking Tom Blast Park, My Talking Tom 2+ lets players adopt and nurture a virtual pet cat; Coffee Inc 2+ invites aspiring entrepreneurs to build a global coffee empire from the ground up; and FreeCell Solitaire: Card Game+ allows fans of classic card games to enjoy endless hands.
Players can also check out a free introductory experience on the App Store for select Arcade games without a subscription, including Crossy Road Castle, WHAT THE CLASH?, PGA TOUR Pro Golf, and Hello Kitty Island Adventure.
MacDailyNews Take: Apple Arcade is available for $6.99 per month with a one-month free trial. Customers who purchase a new iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV receive three months of Apple Arcade for free. Apple Arcade is part of Apple One’s Individual ($19.95), Family ($25.95), and Premier ($37.95) plans, with a one-month free trial. Arcade Originals are playable across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. App Store Greats are available on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro. An Apple Arcade subscription gives a family of up to six unlimited access to all the games in its catalog.
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Steve Jobs $1 commemorative coin sells out in minutes: Apple fans and collectors swarm the U.S. Mint
The internet lit up today as the U.S. Mint’s limited-edition Steve Jobs commemorative coin vanished faster than a new iPhone at launch. Within minutes of going on sale, supplies of the 2026 American Innovation $1 Coin honoring California’s tech visionary were snapped up by eager collectors, Apple devotees, and numismatists worldwide.
2026 American Innovation $1 Steve Jobs Coin obverse design
A Tribute to a Legend
The coin features a serene depiction of a young Steve Jobs seated against the rolling oak-covered hills of Northern California — a nod to the landscape that inspired his intuitive, organic approach to technology. Above the image sits his iconic phrase: “MAKE SOMETHING WONDERFUL.” It’s a fitting tribute to the man who co-founded Apple in 1976 and transformed personal computing, music, phones, and animation through Pixar.
The design has sparked some debate — some praise its minimalist zen vibe, while others joke it gives Jobs a slightly unexpected look — but that hasn’t dampened enthusiasm one bit.
Pricing and Availability:
• 25-coin rolls: $61 each (Philadelphia or Denver mint)
• 100-coin bags: $154.50 each (limited to 10 per household)
These aren’t circulating coins for everyday use. They’re premium collectibles priced well above face value, with a total mintage reportedly around 25,950 pieces.
The U.S. Mint site saw massive traffic right at the noon EDT launch on May 12, 2026. Reports from collectors and social media indicate rolls and bags disappeared almost instantly, with many fans left refreshing pages in vain.
Clearly, Steve Jobs remains a cultural icon nearly 15 years after his passing. His story of innovation, resilience, and “thinking different” resonates across generations. Pair that with the growing popularity of American Innovation dollar coins, and you have a perfect storm:
• Apple fans wanting a tangible piece of history
• Coin collectors chasing low-mintage state-themed releases
• Investors betting on secondary market premiums (early eBay listings are already popping up)
Previous coins in the series have seen strong demand, but none carry the star power of Steve Jobs.
MacDailyNews Take: If you missed out, keep an eye on the secondary market, but expect premiums. The U.S. Mint may release more details on exact sell-out numbers soon. For now, this rapid sell-out proves once again that Steve Jobs continues to inspire and captivate.
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Google Maps on CarPlay set to gain Gemini AI integration
Google is preparing to bring its advanced Gemini AI directly into the Google Maps experience on Apple CarPlay, according to code discovered by MacRumors in the latest version of the Google Maps app. This upcoming feature promises to make in-car navigation significantly more intelligent and conversational.
What This Means for Drivers
Once rolled out, Gemini integration will let CarPlay users interact with Google Maps using natural voice commands or taps (via the Gemini interface). You’ll be able to ask complex, context-aware questions about your route, destinations, or surroundings — things traditional navigation apps struggle with. Examples include detailed recommendations, real-time insights, or personalized suggestions based on your location.
Strings in the app indicate that after agreeing to updated Terms of Service in the iPhone Google Maps app, users will simply be able to tell Gemini to navigate to a specific spot. This builds directly on the existing “Ask Maps” feature already available on iPhone, where Gemini handles nuanced queries that go far beyond basic directions.
On iPhone today, you can start navigation and then say “Hey Google” or tap the Gemini icon to chat naturally with the AI. The CarPlay version aims to deliver a similar seamless experience on your car’s infotainment screen.
Why Now? Apple’s CarPlay Changes Enable It
Apple opened the door for third-party conversational AI apps with iOS 26.4, allowing deeper voice-based integration with CarPlay. Google is taking advantage of this to extend Gemini from phones to vehicles.
The framework for Gemini is already present in the Google Maps CarPlay app, though it’s not live yet. A rollout could happen in the coming weeks or months.
Competition Heats Up on CarPlay
This move puts Google in direct competition with other AI assistants already available on CarPlay, including Grok, ChatGPT, and Perplexity. Drivers will soon have more choices for intelligent, voice-driven assistance while on the road.
For iPhone users who rely on Google Maps in their car, this could be one of the most practical AI upgrades yet — safer, smarter navigation that feels like having a knowledgeable co-pilot.
MacDailyNews Take: Since we value our privacy and greatly prefer Apple Maps’ UI, we haven’t used Google Maps for coming up on fourteen years. We’re certainly not going to start now.
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Apple brings Tap to Pay on iPhone to South Africa
Apple on Tuesday announced that Tap to Pay on iPhone is now available in South Africa, enabling merchants to use iPhone to seamlessly and securely accept in-person contactless payments. In collaboration with payment platforms, app developers, and payment networks, Tap to Pay on iPhone makes it easy for businesses of any size to accept payments from contactless credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and other digital wallets using only their iPhone and a partner-enabled iOS app — no additional hardware or payment terminal required.
With Tap to Pay on iPhone, merchants can accept contactless payments through a supporting iOS app on iPhone Xs or later running the latest iOS version. At checkout, the merchant will simply prompt the customer to hold their contactless credit or debit card, iPhone, Apple Watch, or other digital wallet near the merchant’s iPhone, and the payment will be securely completed using NFC technology. No additional hardware is needed, so merchants can accept payments from wherever they do business.
Apple works closely with leading payment platforms and app developers across the payments and commerce industry to offer Tap to Pay on iPhone. Payment platforms and developers can integrate Tap to Pay on iPhone into their iOS apps, making it easy for merchants to enable this secure and convenient capability.
Starting today, iStore Pay and Yoco are the first payment platforms in South Africa to offer Tap to Pay on iPhone, empowering businesses of all sizes to offer Tap to Pay on iPhone at checkout.
Tap to Pay on iPhone supports Apple Pay and other digital wallets, as well as contactless credit and debit cards from leading payment networks, including Mastercard and Visa, with American Express coming soon.
Privacy is fundamental in the design and development across all of Apple’s payment features. With Tap to Pay on iPhone, customers’ payment data is protected by the same technology that makes Apple Pay private and secure. All transactions made using Tap to Pay on iPhone are encrypted and processed using the Secure Element, and Apple doesn’t know what is being purchased or who is buying it. Apple doesn’t store card numbers or transaction information on the device or on Apple servers, so merchants and customers can rest assured that their data stays theirs.
MacDailyNews Note: Fin out more about Tap to Pay on iPhone here.
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Apple acquired Patchflyer, maker of grading tool Color.io in January
According to new EU acquisition disclosures, Apple acquired Patchflyer GmbH, a small one-person company, back in January. Patchflyer was owned by Jonathan Ochmann, the creator of VisionColor and Color.io, a popular web-based color grading tool used by photographers and filmmakers.
VisionColor is a premium developer of industry standard 3D LUTs for cinematic film emulation and color grading, tools that have helped over 100.000 filmmakers, photographers, and artists worldwide to get professional, cinematic color. VisionColor products are used in many blockbuster movies, TV series, music videos, short films, and commercials.
Color.io is a one-of-a-kind film emulation tool, look designer, and raw photo editor for photographers and filmmakers used to craft stunning film color that works for any camera, in any software, and on any screen with an advanced AI powered analog grading engine.
Apple purchased Color.io and is employing Ochmann. Last year, Ochmann announced Color.io’s impending closure in November, and said that he was joining a company that will let him work at a scale he could not reach on his own. “After 10+ years of running everything alone, I’ve reached a point where I need to grow in ways that aren’t possible as a solo builder,” he wrote.
Color.io went offline on December 31, 2025, with about five weeks of warning for the app’s 200,000+ users. Now that Ochmann is employed at Apple, Color.io capabilities could come to Apple software in the future. Ochmann’s expertise and Color.io’s features would be useful for Final Cut Pro or Pixelmator Pro.
MacDailyNews Note: Here’s a review and tutorial for Color.io from Daniel Grindrod:
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Apple releases iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, and watchOS 26.5
Apple today pushed out the latest point updates across its mobile platforms: iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, and watchOS 26.5. While not a massive feature-packed release like the initial iOS 26 launch last September, today’s updates deliver meaningful refinements, security improvements, new customization options, and several under-the-hood enhancements that users will notice in daily use.
What’s New in iOS 26.5 & iPadOS 26.5
The updates focus on polish rather than revolution, but several additions stand out:
• End-to-end encrypted RCS messaging support: Apple has expanded advanced messaging capabilities with full end-to-end encryption for RCS conversations when communicating with Android users. This brings cross-platform chats closer to the security level of iMessage.
• Smarter Maps suggestions and Ads in Maps: Apple Maps now offers more intelligent, context-aware route and place suggestions. The company has also begun rolling out (opt-in) advertising within Maps, a new revenue stream that promises highly relevant local business promotions.
• Pride Harmony wallpaper with extensive customization: A vibrant new Pride-themed wallpaper arrives with deep personalization options for colors, patterns, and animations—perfect for celebrating diversity throughout the year.
• Performance and battery tweaks: Users report snappier animations, faster app launching, and slightly improved battery life on both iPhone and iPad models, especially older supported devices like the iPhone 11 series and iPad Pro (3rd gen) and later.
Bug fixes and security updates: As usual, Apple addressed dozens of vulnerabilities and minor issues carried over from iOS 26.4.2. The company strongly encourages everyone to update promptly.
Additional smaller changes include refined Apple Intelligence behaviors, better handling of notifications in Focus modes, and continued expansion of the Liquid Glass design language introduced in iOS 26.
watchOS 26.5 Highlights
The Apple Watch update mirrors many of the system-level improvements while adding watch-specific touches:
• Wrist flick to dismiss notifications — A convenient new gesture lets you quickly clear alerts with a simple flick of the wrist.
• Enhanced Workout Buddy features — Smarter real-time coaching and motivational prompts during runs, lifts, and other activities.
• Performance optimizations — Better power efficiency and smoother interface responsiveness across Series 6 and newer models (including the latest Ultra 3 and Series 11).
How to Update
The new software is available now over-the-air. Simply go to:
• Settings > General > Software Update on iPhone or iPad
• Watch app > General > Software Update on your paired iPhone for the Watch
Apple recommends backing up your devices before installing, and the updates are compatible with all devices that already run iOS 26 / iPadOS 26 / watchOS 26.
MacDailyNews Take: iOS 26.5 is a classic “spring cleaning” release—nothing flashy, but the kind of update that makes your devices feel fresher and more reliable. With iOS 27 likely on the horizon later this year, today’s release keeps the current generation in excellent shape while quietly laying groundwork for future features.
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Apple releases tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and HomePod 26.5
Apple just dropped a fresh round of updates for its less headline-grabbing platforms: tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and HomePod software 26.5. If you’re hoping for flashy new features, you might want to temper your expectations — this one is all about refinement.
What’s Actually New?
According to Apple’s release notes, these updates contain “performance and stability improvements.” That’s code for: no major user-facing changes. The 26.5 betas have been out for over a month, and even the most dedicated testers haven’t uncovered significant additions. Apple is clearly saving its creative energy for the next major cycle.
Why This Update Still Matters
Even without new bells and whistles, these releases are worth installing. Minor updates like this often include important security patches, bug fixes, and under-the-hood optimizations that keep your devices running smoothly — especially critical for always-on hardware like Apple TV and HomePod.
• Apple TV 4K owners get a more stable experience for streaming, gaming, and AirPlay.
• Apple Vision Pro users benefit from better reliability in what remains Apple’s most ambitious (and demanding) platform.
• HomePod and HomePod mini users should see improved audio performance, Siri responsiveness, and smart home stability.
Apple continues to stress the importance of keeping all your devices updated for the best security and compatibility across the ecosystem.
Eyes on WWDC and the 27 Releases
The real excitement is already building for tvOS 27, visionOS 27, and the next HomePod update. Apple will unveil those features at WWDC 2026 next month (starting June 8th). If history is any guide, we’ll see bigger leaps in Apple Intelligence integration, spatial computing, and smarter home entertainment experiences.
MacDailyNews Take: Today’s 26.5 updates are the software equivalent of a mid-season tune-up—nothing revolutionary, but essential maintenance that keeps the machine running at peak performance. Go ahead and update when you’re prompted.
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Apple unveils new Mac ad targeting college students: ‘Great Ideas Start Here’
Apple continues its strong push to highlight the Mac as the ultimate creative and productive tool, this time with a fresh video aimed squarely at students heading into or already navigating college life.
Titled “Mac Students: The journey to great ideas in college,” the video showcases how MacBooks empower students to brainstorm, problem-solve, and bring ambitious projects to life. It emphasizes the Mac’s role in turning raw ideas into reality — perfect timing amid surging demand for Apple’s latest hardware, including the MacBook Neo and high-end Mac mini/Mac Studio models driven by AI capabilities.
The ad captures real-world student scenarios: late-night study sessions, collaborative group projects, and creative workflows where the Mac’s performance, battery life, and seamless ecosystem make all the difference. It’s part of Apple’s broader “Great Ideas Start Here” campaign, which positions the Mac as the starting point for innovation, whether in education, professional work, or personal creativity.
MacDailyNews Take: This student-focused spot arrives as Apple reports record interest in its Mac lineup. With Apple Silicon powering impressive AI features and unmatched efficiency, the Mac is attracting both longtime fans and first-time switchers.
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Behind the Lens: The cutting-edge camera gear powering Apple TV’s ‘Widow’s Bay’ and its cinematic peers
Apple TV’s “Widow’s Bay,” the eerie horror-comedy series created by Katie Dippold and starring Matthew Rhys, has captivated audiences with its atmospheric New England island visuals — rich, inky blacks, painterly coastal mist, and a hauntingly detailed look that blends charm with dread. Much of that visual magic comes down to the sophisticated equipment chosen by cinematographer Christian Sprenger, ASC (known for his work on “Atlanta”).
The Gear That Defines “Widow’s Bay”
The production relied on high-end digital cinema tools provided by Keslow Camera. Industry discussions and early technical breakdowns confirm that Sprenger paired the Sony VENICE (likely a VENICE 2) camera system with vintage Canon K35 prime lenses. These classic 1970s lenses are renowned for their fast apertures (typically T/1.3 or T/1.5), beautiful organic rendering, and creamy fall-off that delivers a soft, painterly quality with exceptional character in highlights and skin tones.
The combination of the Sony VENICE’s outstanding dynamic range and color science with the K35s’ vintage optics helped create the series’ signature moody, textured, and filmic aesthetic—perfect for the show’s blend of coastal beauty and creeping horror—without heavy reliance on post-production effects. The fast primes also excelled in the challenging handheld, splash-bag, and rugged location work in Massachusetts.
Similar High-End Gear in Apple TV’s “Silo”
Apple TV’s acclaimed dystopian series “Silo” also embraced premium large-format tools to achieve its claustrophobic yet epic underground world. Cinematographers including David Luther, Kiesha, and Laurie Rose (among others) captured the show primarily on the ARRI Alexa Mini LF paired with Caldwell Chameleon anamorphic lenses.
These Chameleons — custom-developed by Caldwell based on Panavision anamorphic glass — provided a distinctive cinematic compression, characterful fall-off, beautiful flares, and organic edge distortion. The anamorphic look enhanced the series’ sense of confinement and scale on the massive silo sets while maintaining the sharp, high-dynamic-range imaging the Alexa LF family is known for.
Other Productions Using Similar or the Same Equipment
Apple TV and other premium streamers frequently invest in top-tier gear for a cinematic edge. Here are notable examples sharing similar large-format or high-end setups:
• Sony VENICE (often with vintage or specialized lenses like the Canon K35s) appears in many prestige TV productions for its color science and modularity. It’s a go-to for narrative work needing flexibility on location, much like the coastal shoots in “Widow’s Bay.”
• ARRI Alexa Mini LF and its large-format siblings deliver expansive resolution and shallow depth of field for epic scope, as seen in Silo and other ambitious Apple projects.
• Vintage Canon K35s and Caldwell Chameleons (both from specialist rental houses like Keslow and ARRI Rental) reflect a growing trend toward character-driven optics that give premium television a timeless, organic aesthetic.
“Widow’s Bay” and “Silo” prove that thoughtful gear choices (especially pairing modern digital cinema bodies with vintage or custom lenses) can elevate storytelling, whether it’s misty coastal horror or buried dystopian tension. If you’re a cinephile or filmmaker, these Apple TV productions highlight how far premium television cinematography has come.
MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.
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