Latest news with #iOS26
CNET
3 hours ago
- CNET
What You Should Know About T9 Dialing on Your iPhone Before iOS 26
Apple announced on June 9 at its Worldwide Developers Conference that the next version of the iPhone's operating system will be called iOS 26. The tech giant said that update will bring a transparent glass design to icons and menus and much more to your iPhone this fall. But when Apple released iOS 18 in 2024, the tech giant brought T9 dialing to all iPhones. With T9 dialing, you can call someone just by typing their name into your iPhone's Phone app. That means with iOS 18, you don't have to search for a person's name in your contacts, or use Messages, to call them. Read more: Everything Apple Announced at WWDC Here's everything you need to know about T9 dialing and how to use it on your iPhone. What exactly is T9 dialing? T9 stands for text on nine keys. Before cellphones had full keyboards, many phones had 12 keys. These were for the numbers zero to nine, star and the pound sign or hashtag. I felt old just writing that. And to text someone, you mostly used the nine numbered keys. Each numbered key had either three or four corresponding letters attached to it, with the zero key being the spacebar and the one key blank. If you go into your Phone app and tap Keypad across the bottom of your screen, you can see the corresponding numbers and letters there. At first, if you wanted to type "hello" you had to press 44(H)-33(E)-555(L)-555(L)-666(0). That's a lot of typing for one fairly short word. T9 texting was introduced as an early form of predictive typing. It lets you press fewer keys and send messages faster. So for "hello" you'd type 4-3-5-5-6. Much easier. Getty Images How to use T9 dialing on iPhone With iOS 18, you can now use T9 dialing to make calls. Here's how. 1. Open your Call app on your iPhone. 2. Tap Keypad at the bottom of the screen. From here, start typing the name of the person you want to call using the principles of T9. So if you want to call dad, you'd type 3-2-3 into your keypad, and for mom, you'd type 6-6-6, but nothing to be freaked out about, promise. Their name should appear across the top of the screen. As you type, a backspace button will appear beneath the pound sign/hashtag if you make a mistake. Press that as many times as needed. Note there is no space button. Once you find the person, tap their name and their phone number will automatically be entered. Then hit the green call button, and you're set. That is not his real number. Apple/CNET If there is more than one person in your Contacts app by a given name, as you type you'll see an option beneath the top result that says something like "3 more…" Tap that to open a new menu with all the corresponding contacts. Then tap the call button next to the correct contact and your call will immediately start. Be prepared to explain why you're calling the other person and not just texting them. For more on iOS 18, here's what you need to know about iOS 18.5 and iOS 18.4, as well as our iOS 18 cheat sheet. You can also check out what you should know about iOS 26.
CNET
3 hours ago
- CNET
These States Let You Add Your Driver's License to Your iPhone. Here's How to Do It
Apple Wallet on your iPhone allows you to store transit and boarding passes, along with concert tickets and rewards cards, which frees up precious space in your physical wallet if you carry one. The next move is to digitize one of your most important items: your driver's license or ID. Right now, a select number of states currently allow you to add your driver's license to Apple Wallet. People that enable the feature in Apple Wallet will be able to use their iPhones to get through TSA checkpoints at airports for a much snappier security experience. It's going to take some time before all states have a digital ID system up and running. Below, we'll cover what states currently support digital IDs via Apple Wallet and how to add one to your iPhone. Plus, we'll go over some of the new features headed to Apple Wallet once iOS 26 is released later this fall. For more, don't miss our visual comparison of iOS 18 to iOS 26. The Small but Mighty Features of iOS 26 The Small but Mighty Features of iOS 26 Click to unmute Video Player is loading. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Next playlist item Unmute Current Time 0:02 / Duration 0:06 Loaded : 100.00% 0:02 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:04 Share Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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The Small but Mighty Features of iOS 26 These states support digital IDs on iPhones right now Only a handful of states support digital IDs in Apple Wallet. One key factor is how each state implements its Mobile Driver's License system. For instance, Louisiana, New York, Utah and Virginia all support mobile driver's licenses but require separate apps for digital IDs. States and regions that support digital IDs in Apple Wallet: Arizona California Colorado Georgia Hawaii Iowa Maryland New Mexico Ohio Puerto Rico Some states were originally announced to support Apple's digital ID, but haven't quite got there yet. The number of states supported in Apple Wallet is about half of what the TSA currently allows. Collectively, it accepts digital IDs across Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet and state-based mobile apps in 15 states. How to add your ID or driver's license to Apple Wallet If you live in a state that supports digital IDs for Apple Wallet, it's easy to add it. After it's added, you'll need to verify your identity, which can take a little longer, but is still a straightforward process. Open Apple Wallet . . Tap the Add button. button. Tap Driver's License or ID and select your location. If applicable, choose whether you want to add your ID to your iPhone only or both your iPhone and your Apple Watch. Follow the steps to scan your license or ID. (Make sure you scan your ID in a well-lit environment and the photo is in focus.) Once it's scanned, you'll be prompted to confirm your identity with a selfie photo. According to Apple, you may be asked to complete a number of facial or head movements for identification purposes. To ensure an easier verification process, Apple suggests that you: Stand in front of a plain background with neutral, light paint. Be in a well-lit area, ideally indoors. Take off sunglasses, masks, hats or other accessories that could block your face. Hold your iPhone steady. When you're finished, submit your information by confirming with Touch or Face ID. Your biometrics will be bound to the ID, so only you can use it. How to transfer your digital ID to another iPhone If you upgrade your iPhone, you'll need to transfer your ID or driver's license to it. During initial setup, tap Wallet . . Select your ID. Follow the steps. Tap to confirm you want to move your driver's license or ID to the new device. Digital passports are coming to Apple Wallet with iOS 26 Creating a digital ID from your physical passport is coming to your iPhone later this year. Apple/Screenshot by CNET While states are taking time to implement digital ID systems, Apple announced a new feature coming in iOS 26 later this year: You can add a digital passport to Apple Wallet. When that feature is available, iPhone users will be able to scan their passports to create a digital version for identity verification during domestic travel. You won't be able to use it for international travel, and it's not a full replacement for a physical passport (so keep your physical one on you), but it should work at the 250-plus supported TSA checkpoints. During its WWDC keynote earlier this month, Apple said that the digital ID made from your passport can also be used "in apps and in person," but it didn't give any specifics. This is essentially what can be done on Android through Google Wallet. Verify with Wallet ID verification could make ordering alcohol easier Also headed to iPhones this fall is an easier way for you to prove your age using your digital ID. Say you want to have a bottle of wine sent to your place via Uber Eats. Typically, when the driver arrives, you'll need to present your ID and have it scanned to complete the transaction, but with the new Verify with Wallet, your stored digital ID will be used to verify your age. (I do wonder if things might get more complicated when the delivery arrives if you're not the one receiving it.) Verify with Wallet will be supported by Chime, Turo, Uber Eats and U.S. Bank. For more, don't miss what you should know about flying domestically without a Real ID in 2025.
Geeky Gadgets
3 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
You WON'T Believe What iOS 26 Is Doing!
Apple's iOS 26 introduces a comprehensive suite of updates aimed at improving customization, usability, and performance. With the second beta release now available, Apple continues to refine its mobile operating system, offering users a more seamless and personalized experience. Below is an in-depth look at the most notable features and enhancements in iOS 26. The video below from iReviews gives us more details on iOS 26. Watch this video on YouTube. Advanced Lock Screen Customization iOS 26 takes lock screen personalization to the next level, allowing users to place widgets at the top or bottom of the screen. This flexibility enables you to create a layout that suits your preferences and enhances accessibility, especially for one-handed use. Whether you prioritize quick access to weather updates, calendar events, or fitness stats, this feature ensures that essential information is always within easy reach. Proactive Liquid Detection Alerts A standout safety feature in iOS 26 is the new liquid detection alert. If moisture is detected in the charging port, your device will emit an audible alarm—even when in silent mode. This proactive measure helps protect your device from potential damage by making sure you are immediately aware of the issue. It's a practical addition that underscores Apple's focus on device longevity and user safety. Streamlined Missed Call Management The Phone app now makes managing missed calls more intuitive. With a simple swipe on a missed call, you can set a reminder to follow up later. This small yet impactful feature simplifies communication management, making sure you never overlook an important call or forget to respond. Enhanced Photo Search and Navigation The Photos app has been upgraded with improved search functionality, allowing you to limit searches to specific albums or collections. This makes locating images faster and more efficient. Additionally, smoother animations enhance navigation within the app, and the syncing status is now displayed under the 'Library' section, providing greater transparency and control over your photo library. Type to Siri During Calls iOS 26 introduces the ability to type to Siri during phone calls, a feature designed for situations where speaking aloud isn't practical. Whether you're in a quiet environment or need to maintain discretion, this update ensures Siri remains accessible and functional in all contexts. Customizable Messaging Backgrounds Messaging receives a visual upgrade with the option to customize backgrounds for SMS, RCS, and iMessage conversations. This feature allows you to create unique aesthetics for different chats, adding a personal touch to your messaging experience. Whether you prefer vibrant colors or subtle designs, the choice is yours. Strengthened Privacy and Security Controls Privacy and security remain a top priority in iOS 26. A new 'Wired Accessories' section in the settings menu provides enhanced control over connected devices. This feature allows you to manage trust preferences for accessories, reinforcing Apple's commitment to safeguarding user data and making sure secure connections. Clearer Battery Usage Insights The battery usage interface has been redesigned with color-coded indicators for easier interpretation. These visuals offer a detailed breakdown of your usage patterns, helping you identify areas where you can conserve battery life. This update provides a more intuitive way to monitor and manage your device's power consumption. Refinements in the Maps App The Maps app has undergone subtle yet meaningful changes. The 'Library' section has been renamed to 'Places', aligning the app's terminology with its functionality. This adjustment simplifies navigation and enhances the overall user experience, making it easier to organize and access saved locations. Performance and Efficiency Improvements iOS 26 delivers noticeable performance enhancements, with higher Geekbench scores in both single-core and multi-core tests compared to its predecessor. These improvements translate to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and overall better responsiveness. While battery life remains stable, further optimizations are expected in future updates, making sure a balance between performance and efficiency. Release Schedule The third beta of iOS 26 is expected to arrive on July 7, followed by the first public beta on July 14. These upcoming releases will likely include additional refinements and provide a clearer picture of the system's full capabilities. For those eager to explore the new features, these dates mark key milestones in the rollout process. iOS 26: A User-Focused Update iOS 26 represents a thoughtful evolution of Apple's mobile operating system. From enhanced lock screen customization to improved privacy settings, the updates cater to a diverse range of user needs. As the beta progresses, further refinements are anticipated, solidifying iOS 26 as a robust and user-friendly update. Whether you're drawn to its practical enhancements or its focus on personalization, iOS 26 offers something for everyone. Master iOS 26 features with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Source & Image Credit: iReviews Filed Under: Gadgets 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.
Tom's Guide
6 hours ago
- Tom's Guide
I tried new AirPods features with the iOS 26 beta — and Apple missed an opportunity to add this killer feature
For the past couple of weeks now, I've been trying out as many new features I can find with the iOS 26 developer beta. For example, I've already explained the first thing I did after checking out the software's new Liquid Glass design. Soon after that, I checked out the new CarPlay experience to see what's new and different with Apple's car infotainment system. The next thing up on my list was to try out the new AirPods features that are included with iOS 26 update. Considering how Apple's AirPods are some of the best wireless earbuds on the market, it comes as no surprise that the company would look to add capabilities that make them even more helpful across different situations. I got to test out some of these new features with the iOS 26 beta release, but I'm still confused by one thing that Apple hasn't added — the ability to use the AirPods as a wireless microphone system. Honestly, I'm baffled because it seems like a no-brainer addition given the other things Apple has introduced with the beta software. For example, you can now use AirPods to control how you take photos and videos on your iPhone by simply squeezing on their stems. I tested out this exact feature on my iPhone 16 Pro Max with firmware version 8A293c on my AirPods Pro 2. While video recording, I can use these controls to start and stop recordings remotely. When you shoot as many videos as I do, this feature is helpful because I can put my iPhone on a tripod and then shoot a video of myself at a distance using its rear cameras as opposed to the front-facing one. I hear the usual start recording tone on my AirPods that indicates a recording has started, then the stop recording tone when I'm done. Again, this is a handy feature, but Apple's missing the ball with turning the AirPods into a wireless microphone that can be used for better audio quality because it's on me — and therefore better at picking up my voice. When I do start a video recording using these new gestures, the audio recording is still through my iPhone, so it sounds distant because I'm farther away. I don't understand why Apple doesn't make this addition because it would only make the AirPods better for shooters and creators. With the iOS 26 beta software, Apple says that the AirPods are getting 'studio-quality' audio recording. I can definitely tell that the firmware update enhances my audio quality because I tried this out while outdoors in the city with a phone call to a friend. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. They couldn't hear all the background noise that was around me, like the loud honking noises from the cabs and other traffic disturbances. Knowing that the microphones are delivering better results with audio, you would think that this could be applied to video recording as well — but it isn't, and I think it's a missed opportunity. I'm hopeful the AirPods gain this feature in subsequent iOS 26 updates, just because it could replace my existing DJI Mic system that I use. Apple can certainly have a big impact if the AirPods could effectively act as wireless microphones when recording video with an iPhone. In fact, it would be even better if Apple comes up with a lanyard attachment that could attach an AirPod to your shirt. It could also make the audio better for interviews to break up the audio into two separate tracks since two AirPods would be used as an audio source. Given the popularity of the AirPods for music listening, they could also become game-changing with video recording. What's interesting is that you can technically use AirPods as a wireless mic with an iPhone, but only through third party camera apps like FiLMiC Pro and BlackMagic Camera. At the same time, I suspect that these camera apps wouldn't have access to the same 'studio-quality' audio recording. Hopefully Apple sees this big opportunity and takes the time to add it in time for iOS 26's final release presumably this fall with the iPhone 17 launch.
Yahoo
17 hours ago
- Yahoo
How Long Will It Take Your iPhone to Fully Charge? iOS 26 Will Tell You
PCMag editors select and review products independently. If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing. We got a first look at iOS 26 on Monday. And since all the attention has been on the Liquid Glass UI, some interesting updates to Battery Settings went largely unnoticed. As MacRumors reports, Apple redesigned the Battery Settings page in iOS 26 to offer improved battery usage statistics and a new feature to extend battery life. Now, when you enter Battery Settings, you are no longer greeted with options to enable Battery Percentage and Low Power Mode. You'll instead see your current battery percentage at the top. If you have plugged in your iPhone to charge, the same menu will show the time required to charge your battery to full. Based on the images shared by MacRumors, the screen auto-lock feature has also shifted from Display & Brightness to Battery. Next are battery usage statistics. In a move away from iOS 18, Apple will now display weekly numbers instead of 24-hour and 10-day numbers. At first glance, the chart looks similar to what you see on Instagram. You can also tap on each of the previous seven days to see how much battery was consumed each day, MacRumors says. The daily stat will show when you charged your iPhone and for how long. Apple has retained the Battery Health section, which displays information about your charge cycles, maximum battery capacity, and optimized charging limit. However, it has introduced a 'Power Mode' section, which houses the Low Power Mode setting previously located on the front page and a new Adaptive Power Mode. When enabled, Adaptive Power Mode will let your iPhone make subtle performance adjustments to extend battery life, such as reducing screen brightness or slowing down some activities. Android's Adaptive Battery feature pretty much does the same thing. All of iOS 26's features will be made available to developers this week. If you are eager to check out the features, you can install a public beta next month or wait for a stable release this fall.
