Latest news with #Safari
Digital Trends
a day ago
- Digital Trends
Apple must steal these 3 tab features to make Safari truly irresistible
When Apple took to the stage at WWDC 2025 a few weeks ago, I was expecting some key improvements to Safari. Instead, what the company served was a redesign and the promise of faster performance. Now, Safari isn't a devastating laggard. For a lot of users in the Apple ecosystem, it gets the job done. But over the past few years, rivals — both established and upstarts — have come up with features that make Safari feel as if it were stuck in the past. When Arc came out, it reimagined what a browser can offer, despite being built atop the same engine as Chrome. Of particular interest was its intuitive tab management system. Recommended Videos Safari's take on how tabs are managed beyond syncing across devices remains stagnant. Over the past few months, I've tried a host of browsers, especially underrated gems like Opera and new-age AI-powered options such as Dia, which reimagine how you interact with browser tabs. Here's a list of the most innovative tab tricks that Safari must draw a few inspirations from: Talk with tabs Dia is an AI-focused browser, but it's not exactly stuffing it down every user's throat. It serves a meaningful kind of tab action powered by AI. Let's say you are scrolling a webpage and select a word or passage. As soon as you do it, the text as well as the entire tab content is automatically copied to the AI assistant's chat feed. You just go ahead and type in your query to get the answer without any copy-paste chore or even opening another tab. For example, if I merely highlight a technical term such as '10GBE Ethernet' on a webpage, all I need to type in the sidebar is 'Explain' and hit enter. The AI will crawl the web, find answers from reliable sources, and present them in a well-formatted structure. Alternatively, you can just chat about the webpage without ever highlighting a word, passage, or image. It's a low-friction, high-reward tactic for getting work done without opening a dedicated tab each time you need some background info. On a similar note, Dia lets you pull information from across multiple tabs and pull a report out of it. For example, if you have opened eight shopping tabs for earbuds on Amazon, you can simply use the '@' command in the search box, type the tab name (the letters you see on the tab card) or pick them from the drop-down list, and type your query, like: 'Compare these sweaters, create a table with their pros and cons, and their price in a sorted manner.' Doing so will pull information from all the tabs in the background, and it will be neatly presented to you as a table detailing everything you asked for. It's like pulling intelligence from across multiple tabs, without doing the manual back and forth. Tab control made easy Opera browser offers one of the most forward-looking approaches to tab management. It sticks with the traditional route of handling tabs with cursor movement or keyboard shortcuts, but for users who want an extra dash of convenience, it offers a chat-like system, as well. Think of it as talking to Siri or Gemini to handle your basic browser chores. Opera browser comes with an assistant that can understand your natural language commands for handling tabs. For example, you can ask it to perform chores such as 'put all my IEEE tabs in a group,' 'close all the background tabs,' 'bookmark my Reuters and MIT tabs,' and more. Just like Dia, Opera's assistant can also handle in-tab chores, such as summarizing an article or asking queries about content on the page, even if it requires web research in the background. It works flawlessly, and as a journalist, it saves me a lot of time while doing research and keeping things in order. All of it is paired with the thoughtfully designed tab island system in Opera, which is color-coded, collapsible, and supports drag/drop gestures. Furthermore, thanks to workspaces, all your tabs and tab groups can be neatly arranged across different browsing profiles without any overlap. Saving and sharing tabs There can only be so many tabs you can keep active at a time before the browser starts slowing things down. But more than just keeping tabs alive, one needs a system where they can be saved, like a neat digital notebook, in a presentable fusion. And in a shareable format, as well. Unfortunately, Safari doesn't deliver on this promise. On the other hand, Microsoft and Opera offer a fantastic solution. In Opera, you get Pinboards. Think of it as Pinterest, but for your web browser. You can create and organize as many pinboards as you want, and save your browser notes, complete with an active web preview and personal notes, custom images, and wallpapers. Pinboards let you play with how the tab previews look, like a notebook or a vertically-scrolling social media-inspired content feed. And when you share it, the pinboard is tuned into a URL that opens in the same format as you created it. For the recipient, there is no log-in hassle or Opera browser requirement. Similar to Opera, Microsoft's Edge browser has also offered a similar system called Collections. It also lives in the sidebar, lets you add custom notes, and assign a name to each tab cluster. With a single click, you can copy all the contents of a collection to the clipboard and share it. The sharing system for Edge Collections is not as elegant as Opera Pinboards, but it gets the job done. I just hope Apple pays attention to these meaningful tab interactions that rivals have adopted and delivers its own take in Safari down the road. I am hopeful, but at the moment, I am sticking to browsers that do it better.
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Beyond the Obvious: 20 Hidden Gems in iOS 26 Beta 2
Apple's iOS 26 Beta 2 introduces a variety of hidden features and subtle improvements designed to enhance usability and functionality. Whether you're browsing the web, managing files, or customizing your device, this update delivers thoughtful refinements aimed at improving your overall experience. Below is a detailed look at the most notable changes that make this update stand out in a new video from iReviews. Watch this video on YouTube. Safari Gets Smarter Browsing the web has become more intuitive with the addition of forward and backward buttons in Safari. These buttons, conveniently located at the bottom of the browser, improve accessibility and streamline navigation. This enhancement extends to third-party apps as well, making sure a consistent user experience across platforms. Whether you're revisiting a previous page or exploring new content, this feature simplifies your browsing journey. Notes App Adapts to Your Workflow The Notes app now features dynamic toolbars that adjust based on the content you're working on. This adaptive design minimizes distractions, allowing you to focus on tasks such as writing, organizing, or brainstorming with greater efficiency. By tailoring the toolbar to your current activity, the app ensures that the tools you need are always within reach, enhancing productivity. Files App Adds Personalization The Files app has received a subtle yet impactful update, including a purple shader for its icon. More importantly, users can now customize folder color tints to match their home screen themes. This added layer of personalization not only makes file management more engaging but also creates a visually cohesive experience. Whether you're organizing work documents or personal files, this feature allows you to tailor the app to your preferences. Live Radio Widget in the Music App Music enthusiasts will appreciate the new live radio widget, which provides quick access to live radio streams directly from the home screen. The widget prominently displays album art or playlist thumbnails, making it easier to engage with your favorite content. This feature ensures that your music experience is both seamless and visually appealing, keeping your favorite stations just a tap away. Seamless eSIM Transfers from Android Switching from Android to iOS has been simplified with a streamlined eSIM transfer process. You can now migrate your eSIM directly through the Settings app, eliminating the need for complex configurations or external tools. This feature makes transitioning between platforms more accessible, reducing the hassle often associated with such changes. iPhone Recovery Without a Computer Recovering your iPhone is now more convenient than ever. With iOS 26 Beta 2, you can use another iOS device or iPad to restore and set up your phone. This feature is particularly useful when you're traveling or away from your computer, providing a flexible solution for device recovery. Whether you're troubleshooting or setting up a new device, this functionality ensures a smoother process. Improved Personal Hotspot Insights The personal hotspot feature now includes dynamic status descriptions that update based on activity. These real-time insights provide a clearer understanding of your hotspot's current state, helping you manage connections more effectively. Whether you're monitoring data usage or checking connection stability, this update offers valuable information at a glance. Refined UI and Visual Tweaks Apple has introduced several subtle yet impactful visual adjustments across the interface. These refinements enhance the overall aesthetic and usability of iOS 26 Beta 2. Key updates include: Enhanced blur effects for widgets and the control center, creating a more polished look. Smoother animations for home screen customization, improving the user experience. Adjusted border radii for UI elements to better align with iPhone screen corners. Black borders around Spotlight search results for improved visibility and focus. These changes reflect Apple's attention to detail, making sure a visually cohesive and user-friendly interface. Messages App Adds Blue Badges Unread messages from unknown senders are now marked with a blue badge, making it easier to identify and manage these conversations. Additionally, conversation details have been simplified to display only relevant categories such as media, links, and files. This update streamlines message management, helping you stay organized and focused on important communications. Order Tracking in Wallet The Wallet app now supports order tracking, allowing you to monitor purchases directly within the app. This feature integrates seamlessly with your payment and delivery information, offering a centralized solution for managing transactions. Whether you're tracking a recent purchase or planning future orders, this functionality adds convenience to your shopping experience. Camera App Brings Back Feature Labels Labels for features like night mode and flashlight have been reintroduced in the Camera app. These labels provide clarity and guidance, making sure you can fully use your camera's capabilities without guesswork. Whether you're capturing photos in low light or adjusting settings, this update makes the process more intuitive. Crash Feedback in Photos If the Photos app crashes, a new popup allows you to report the issue directly to Apple. This feedback mechanism helps the company address bugs more efficiently, improving the app's overall stability. By allowing users to contribute to the refinement process, Apple demonstrates its commitment to delivering a reliable experience. Enhanced Visual Intelligence for Screenshots Visual intelligence for screenshots has been upgraded, making it easier to recognize and interact with elements within captured images. This enhancement adds functionality to a feature many users rely on daily, making sure that screenshots are not only a tool for documentation but also a practical resource for interaction and organization. Why It Matters iOS 26 Beta 2 represents a thoughtful refinement of the iOS experience. From smarter navigation in Safari to customizable icons in the Files app, these updates reflect Apple's commitment to usability and innovation. Whether you're managing files, exploring new music, or recovering your device, these changes are designed to make your interactions smoother, more intuitive, and ultimately more enjoyable. Gain further expertise in iOS 26 Beta 2 Features by checking out these recommendations. Source & Image Credit: iReviews Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
How Apple may solve its Google Search problem
I hate my Dell laptop. If I close the lid, the laptop will "suspend," but not really. Putting it in a bag in that state will make it hot, and the fans will choke. I have to watch out for this because if I don't, it will get damaged over time and die. This should be enough for the product to be recalled. There are more issues with it, but that is a topic for another day. I know that other manufacturers have the same problem. This is what you get from a modern-ish PC. Related: Analysts reset Qualcomm stock price target, send warning Anyone with an Apple MacBook would be puzzled to hear this. They don't have this problem, and how the heck do PC users tolerate it? It seems that PC manufacturers can get away with anything today, and Apple can't; it is held to a higher standard. With the release of the M1 chip in 2020, Apple left the PC competitors in the dust. It took them years to catch up. Even though I still wouldn't buy an Apple laptop for myself, this chip made me comfortable recommending them. But I digress. The reality is that innovation takes time. After all, Apple needed thirteen years to make something really "life-changing" following the launch of the iPhone. In fact, Apple generally takes its time, opting for others' so-called best-in-breed until it creates something better. Perhaps that's why it relies so much on Google for search, rather than a homegrown solution. Apple's deal with Google has worked out well for it (and is profitable), but, unfortunately, that relationship may end soon. The Justice Department's antitrust lawsuit against Google revealed that Apple (AAPL) was paid $20 billion by Google in 2022 to keep it the default search engine in the Safari browser, reported Bloomberg. Google lost the lawsuit, and the DOJ wants the company to cease multibillion-dollar payments to Apple, among other things. Reuters reported that Google plans to appeal the decision. Apple does not reveal revenue from this deal with Google in its earnings reports; however, it is part of its services revenue. Related: Analysts revamp forecast for Nvidia-backed AI stock In fiscal 2022, Apple's services revenue was about $78 billion. The calendar and fiscal year don't align, but making an estimate would mean Google's payment was about 25% of services revenue. Total revenue was $394 billion, so about 5% came from Google. More Tech Stocks: Amazon tries to make AI great again (or maybe for the first time)Veteran portfolio manager raises eyebrows with latest Meta Platforms moveGoogle plans major AI shift after Meta's surprising $14 billion move When you need to keep your revenue growing constantly, having 5% of it at risk is something you can't afford. This is especially true given that Apple has been under fire lately for its apparent failure to launch some amazing artificial intelligence products. I've already written about why the company is struggling on that front. Unconfirmed media reports suggest Apple wants to buy or partner with Perplexity AI to get its hands on its AI-powered search, which provides cited responses to search queries using third-party LLMs. According to Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan, if this deal happens, it will quickly give Apple AI abilities that can be integrated into Siri. It will also provide access to the search advertising market and a high-quality team of AI workers. Related: OpenAI makes shocking move amid fierce competition, Microsoft problems It's not all roses, though. He pointed out four drawbacks: Technology integration might prove to be company might face legal and regulatory deal would have an impact on existing Google of Perplexity's offerings are dependent on rival LLMs. Mohan has an Apple stock price target of $235 and rates the stock a buy, based on a favorable price-to-earnings ratio. He says Apple is trading at approximately 29 times his estimate for calendar year 2026 earnings per share of $8.07. The 5-year historical P/E range is 16 to 34. "We believe a multiple at the higher end of the historical range is justified given a multi-year upgrade cycle, large cash balance and opportunity to diversify into new end markets, increasing mix and diversity of services," said Mohan. Getting into the search advertising market and fixing Siri, with one acquisition, sounds like killing two birds with one stone, but I have my doubts. Knowing that Meta tried to buy Perplexity AI and instead bought Scale AI, I hope that Apple is playing 4D chess. I think Apple would be better off buying a real search engine instead, because Google is getting worse and worse every day. Related: Amazon's latest big bet may flop The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
The Verge
3 days ago
- The Verge
We finally have an update for...PNG?
Posted Jun 25, 2025 at 1:50 PM UTC We finally have an update Launching 22 years after its last major update, the latest PNG spec now includes native support for HDR, APNG animations, and Exif metadata for embedding information into image files. W3C PNG Working Group chair Chris Blume says Chrome, Safari, Firefox, iOS, macOS, and Adobe Photoshop already support the new standard, and that upcoming updates will improve compression and dynamic range support. PNG is back! [
TechCrunch
4 days ago
- TechCrunch
Chrome for Android now lets you move the address bar to the bottom, too
Google Chrome's web browser for Android devices is finally catching up to the notable design change that Safari made with the 2021 introduction of iOS 15: it's offering a way to move the address bar to the bottom of the screen too. The company announced on Tuesday that the latest version of its Chrome for Android browser will now allow users who prefer the modernized experience, designed to be easier to use on mobile devices, to opt to set their address bar to appear at the bottom of their screen instead of the top. The feature was previously available on Chrome for iOS, following Apple's lead in the space. Having learned from Apple's prior challenges, Google is not forcing the change on all its users, however. Instead, it's adding a new feature that lets users configure the address bar's location to their liking. Image Credits:Google To move the address bar to the bottom of the screen, you'll long-press on the bar and then select the option to move it to the bottom. You can also configure the location of the address bar in Chrome's Settings menu. Users often prefer the option as it places the address bar closer to where they're holding their phone, allowing them to type more comfortably. When Apple first rolled out the update, some users rebelled against the change, complaining that the placement of the bar, which initially floated atop the page's content, was problematic as it made some websites nearly unusable. The bar would block out various elements that users needed to tap on, they said, which required them to swipe the bar down and out of the way. Others simply didn't like the change. In response to user feedback, Apple moved the bar to the bottom, below the page content, and made it an optional choice as opposed to the default. Techcrunch event Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Boston, MA | REGISTER NOW Google is approaching the design update in the same way by allowing users to make the decision. The company said the feature will begin to appear on Android devices starting today and will roll out to all users over the weeks ahead.
