The iPhone and iPad have been approved to hold NATO-restricted information, according to an announcement on Thursday. That means off-the-shelf devices running iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 can handle classified information “without requiring special software or settings,” Apple says. The NATO-restricted designation is the lowest level of classified information, and it applies to information that […]
Netflix’s sports docuseries obsession started a few years ago with F1: Drive to Survive, but when the eighth season premieres after midnight tonight, it will also be available on Apple TV. Now that Apple TV has a five-year deal to be the US streaming home for F1 races, subscribers in the US will be able […]
Department of Homeland Security agents “made misrepresentations” to gain access to a Columbia University residential building and detained a student early Thursday morning, according to a statement issued by the school. “Our understanding at this time is that the federal agents made misrepresentations to gain entry to the building to search for a ‘missing person,'” […]
20th Century Studios
In 1979, Ridley Scott ventured into a terrifying part of the cosmos (inspired by the echte nightmares of H.R. Giger) and came back with a terrified crew and an unexpected extra guest. “Alien” forever transformed the horror science fiction genre, showcasing Scott as a talented and at times innovative director who brought to life a terrifying narrative filled with acid blood and shattered rib cages.
Nearly four decades later, Scott revisited the realm of the flawless creature to delve into its origins in “Prometheus.” The anticipation was immense, bolstered by a star-filled cast featuring Charlize Theron, Idris Elba, and Michael Fassbender, in a story described as not a direct prequel to “Alien,” but rather intertwined with its “DNA.”
Whether tied to the original horror or not, “Prometheus” received mixed reviews, with some admiring the refined space narrative that dared to ponder our origins, while many desired increased alien activity of the Xenomorph kind. “They were eager to see more of the original [monster], and I believed he was quite finished, with an orange in his mouth,” Scott remarked to Yahoo! “So I realized: ‘Wow, OK, I made a mistake’.” Consequently, a recalibration for the franchise was initiated, not solely due to audience demand, but because the reaction validated what Scott had long contemplated.
2026 may prove to be another significant year for Viture.
Viture has recently completed a notable 2025; at least, that’s what it claims, but 2026 could maintain that momentum.
In the upcoming months, Viture announced in a press release that it has secured an additional $100 million in its latest funding round. The company asserts this is its second major round, following another $100 million from September 2025, which brings its total capital raised to $200 million. This milestone comes with valuable support, as Viture mentions Legend Capital, an investment division with Lenovo connections, “in collaboration with a group of distinguished strategic investors from the global technology ecosystem.”
Viture also credits its recent capital acquisition to the Bertelsmann Group and other previous contributors.
The company then included a brief summary in its press release, reiterating its venture into “enterprise and medical applications.” In October, Viture partnered with NVIDIA and Stanford Medicine, integrating AR and AI technology into the workplace to “enhance laboratory workflows and expedite research processes.” Shifting to the consumer realm, Viture’s 2025 featured the Luma series, including the Luma Ultra and The Beast.
As March approaches, Viture’s 2026 projections entail advancing with “next-generation product development, global expansion, and enhanced strategic partnerships across the XR ecosystem.”
Here’s a bit more to understand
A significant aspect of Viture’s 2025 was its legal confrontation with Xreal. This conflict, which initially began in Europe, transitioned into the U.S. last month, involving a Texas court in the proceedings. Xreal alleged that Viture was “unlawfully” utilizing its patents across various models of its smart glasses. Viture asserted that it has filed a counter against Xreal, stating that the claims are “baseless.”
The company expressed similar views in its press release today (Feb 26), providing the following official statement: “We believe the claims are without merit. VITURE has independently created its products and respects legitimate intellectual property rights. We will resolve these issues through the appropriate legal channels while remaining dedicated to delivering innovative products and serving our customers.”
Android Central’s Perspective
XR glasses aren’t typically my area of expertise; however, they are well within the realm of my colleague, Nicholas Sutrich. Earlier this year, he compared the Viture Beast with the Xreal 1S to determine which model was the best for consumers. In brief, while Viture has offered a “compelling” alternative to Xreal’s offering, Xreal remains competitive. Both products have their merits, allowing consumers to explore further to see which might suit them best. In my view, there’s little doubt that Viture will forge ahead with significant momentum in 2026, given the funding it has accumulated. The only question is: what can we anticipate next?
Mistral AI lands a partnership with Accenture, the consultant that has also recently announced partnerships with rivals OpenAI and Anthropic.
# Adjusting Your CarPlay App Layout
Have you ever wanted to rearrange or remove apps from CarPlay? Fortunately, you can, though the process differs from changing your iPhone Home screen arrangement. The key is found in the Settings app on your iPhone. Just be sure not to attempt this while driving. You can also make these changes without being connected to CarPlay.
## Adjusting Your CarPlay App Layout
If you’ve connected your iPhone to CarPlay at any point, you can adjust the app layout without being next to your car. Note that the custom app layout is unique to each vehicle, so you’ll have to repeat the process if you want the same configuration across different vehicles.
### Steps to Adjust Your CarPlay Apps
1. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and select General.
2. Choose CarPlay; it should appear as the eighth entry on the list.
3. Pick your vehicle from the list of connected cars, then tap Customize.
Once you’re in this section, you can rearrange apps to your liking by dragging them vertically. The interface operates a bit differently, as sorting app names on a list isn’t the usual way we rearrange iPhone apps. This design choice might be influenced by the diverse layouts of various CarPlay screens.
### Familiarizing Yourself with CarPlay Screen Layouts
You’ll want to know how many apps can fit on one page of your CarPlay screen. A typical configuration is 2×4 (two rows and four columns). If this matches your setup, reference the following guide for sorting order:
1. Top left icon
2. Second from top left icon
3. Second from top right icon
4. Top right icon
5. Bottom left icon
6. Second from bottom left icon
7. Second from bottom right icon
8. Bottom right icon
Continue this sorting for every eight slots to arrange page by page.
Some CarPlay screens may have a different layout, like 2×5 or 4×4. If so, remember to consider the differences in sorting order when organizing by page.
### Concealing CarPlay Apps
The app arrangement interface also lets you conceal or reveal CarPlay apps. Hiding a CarPlay app permits you to eliminate it from CarPlay without removing it from your iPhone.
For additional information regarding CarPlay apps, check out the ongoing lists of [top CarPlay apps](https://9to5mac.com/best-carplay-apps/) and [top EV apps for CarPlay](https://9to5mac.com/these-are-the-best-carplay-apps-for-ev-owners/).
Xcode 26.3 has been unveiled, bringing support for agentic coding, which empowers developers to integrate AI tools such as OpenAI’s Codex and Anthropic’s Claude Agent directly into the Xcode environment. This integration streamlines various tasks, including generating boilerplate code and updating projects in accordance with existing documentation and file structures.
Apple highlights that these AI agents can improve the entire development lifecycle, allowing developers to optimize workflows, iterate quicker, and realize their ideas more effectively. The agents are capable of searching documentation, navigating file structures, modifying project settings, and visually confirming their work through Xcode Previews.
Moreover, Xcode 26.3 exposes its agent interface via Anthropic’s Model Context Protocol (MCP), enabling other compatible tools to connect with Xcode, thereby expanding the range of available AI assistance.
While these tools provide substantial support in development, Apple emphasizes that a solid grasp of one’s code remains crucial, especially for applications aimed for public distribution. The initial feedback regarding this integration has been favorable, with developers sharing their insights on platforms like Mastodon, demonstrating the functionalities of the new features.
YouTube has featured various showcases of the integration, including a session conducted by Ken Orr, the head of the Xcode team at Apple, and discussions by Jerome Bouvard, a senior product manager for developer tools at Apple.
In summary, Xcode 26.3 reduces the entry threshold for newcomers to iOS development while equipping experienced developers with resources to accelerate repetitive tasks. For those keen on exploring iOS development, now is an ideal moment to engage with Xcode 26.3. Additional information can be found on the [official Apple developer website](https://developer.apple.com/xcode/).
# Investigating the Apple Ecosystem: iPad and MacBook Synergy
As a passionate iPad user for almost ten years, I’ve witnessed the device’s transformation and its significance in my everyday computing activities. A prevalent misunderstanding is that the iPad competes with the MacBook; nonetheless, they are engineered to enhance one another within the Apple ecosystem. Features such as Universal Control, Sidecar, Handoff, and continuity tools facilitate smooth interactions that boost productivity. Below, I emphasize some of the most impressive experiences that occur when utilizing iPadOS and macOS together.
## Sidecar
One of the remarkable aspects of the Apple ecosystem is Sidecar, which turns your iPad into a portable external monitor for your MacBook. This feature permits you to either extend your Mac’s display or mirror it on your iPad. Moreover, it allows the application of the Apple Pencil in a macOS setting, rendering it a multifunctional tool for creative endeavors. To activate Sidecar, adhere to these steps:
1. Confirm that both devices are signed in with the identical Apple ID, connected to the same Wi-Fi network, Bluetooth is activated, and Handoff is turned on.
2. On your Mac, go to System Settings > Displays > Add Display > Mirror or Extend to iPad.
3. Position the iPad display by tapping the Arrange button.
Using an iPad as a monitor is a budget-friendly substitute for acquiring a separate portable screen, particularly for tasks such as video editing in Final Cut Pro.
## Universal Control
Universal Control advances integration further by enabling users to manage both their Mac and iPad with a single keyboard and mouse or trackpad. This feature allows flawless navigation between devices, making it feel as though you are operating on one uninterrupted screen. You can also drag and drop files between the two devices with ease. To configure Universal Control:
1. Make sure both devices are under the same Apple ID, connected to the identical Wi-Fi network, Bluetooth is enabled, and Handoff is active.
2. On your Mac, navigate to System Settings > Displays > Add Display > Link keyboard and mouse to iPad.
3. Adjust the iPad display position as necessary.
This feature is especially beneficial for tasks like image editing, where you can create on the iPad and seamlessly transfer files to your Mac.
## Screenshot Edits
An often-overlooked yet highly beneficial feature is the capability to annotate screenshots captured on your Mac using your iPad and Apple Pencil. This method employs continuity to elevate your editing skills:
1. Capture a screenshot on your Mac.
2. Tap the pencil icon on the screenshot.
3. Select your iPad from the dropdown menu.
4. Make your modifications on the iPad.
5. Tap done, and the modified screenshot will appear on your Mac desktop.
This feature simplifies the editing procedure, enabling more accurate annotations.
## Universal Clipboard
Universal Clipboard empowers users to copy content from one Apple device and paste it onto another almost instantaneously. To utilize this feature:
1. Ensure both devices are logged in with the same Apple ID.
2. Activate Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Handoff.
3. Copy content on one device.
4. Paste it on the other device within moments.
This feature is perfect for swiftly transferring links, text, and images between devices.
## Handoff
Handoff enables a seamless switch between devices, allowing you to start a task on one device and carry it over to another. Supported applications include Safari, Notes, and Mail. To implement Handoff:
1. Activate Handoff on both devices.
2. Open a supported application on one device.
3. Look for the app icon in the Dock or app switcher on the other device.
4. Tap to continue where you left off.
For example, if you’re working in Notes on your Mac, the app icon will show up on your iPad, allowing you to resume right from where you stopped.
## Final Thoughts
The synergy of iPad and MacBook through features like Universal Control, Sidecar, and Handoff fosters a unified working atmosphere that enhances productivity. Even entry-level versions of both devices unlock the majority of functionalities, rendering this ecosystem accessible to a broad array of users.
What are your preferred moments within the Apple ecosystem? Do you make use of any of the features discussed above?
The Formula 1 season is set to begin next weekend, heralding the launch of Apple’s exclusive broadcasting agreement in the United States. Every race will be available for live and on-demand streaming on Apple TV, with Apple boosting F1’s visibility across its various platforms.
Viewers can look forward to a specific Formula 1 section within the Apple TV app, featuring live streams of all practice, qualifying rounds, sprints, and Grand Prix races for the 2026 season. On race days, this section will provide quick access to broadcasts and Multiview options, allowing enthusiasts to see both drivers’ viewpoints in a split-screen format. A dedicated camera angle will switch to the onboard perspective of the lead driver. Live race promotions will also appear on the Home tab, facilitating smooth transitions to full-screen streams.
Apple is collaborating with Netflix to introduce the hit docuseries “Drive to Survive” to Apple TV subscribers for the first time.
On race days, Apple Music will offer complimentary audio commentary via Apple Music Radio, enabling fans to experience the race while on the move. A customized F1 hub will showcase curated playlists from drivers and a ‘Sounds of the Circuit’ editorial collection that captures the essence of the race venue.
Apple Podcasts will feature a hub that highlights popular racing and Formula 1 podcasts.
Apple News will have dedicated sections for Formula 1, providing written content from various publishers, including standings for drivers and constructors, interviews, and highlights. Each Grand Prix will have its own page with live updating scorecards and, later in the season, real-time video previews of broadcasts.
Apple Sports will deliver real-time leaderboards, quick links to Apple TV for live viewing, Live Activities during races, and an F1 standings widget for iPhone home screens.
The Melbourne Grand Prix is scheduled for Sunday, March 7, with coverage on Apple TV commencing with the first practice session on Friday at 8:30 AM ET. All practice sessions will be streamed for free, requiring no subscription.
