AirPods Pro 3 Design Anticipated to Include Two Features from AirPods 4

### AirPods Pro 3: Design Modifications and Launch News

Bloomberg reported earlier this week encouraging updates concerning the expected release of the AirPods Pro 3. Recent speculations indicate that Apple is making design modifications inspired by the AirPods 4, with a particular emphasis on the charging case.

#### Smaller Charging Case and Elimination of Pairing Button

The AirPods Pro 3 is anticipated to be revealed in the upcoming weeks, and although there has been a pause in leaks about product specifics, fresh information has emerged regarding its design. A post by leaker Asher Dipprey on X indicates that the charging case for the AirPods Pro 3 will be slightly smaller, and importantly, the pairing button will be removed. Users will instead tap the case itself to control connections.

This insight was confirmed by another leaker, Majin Bu, who suggested that additional details would be shared soon. The design modifications correspond with those observed in the AirPods 4, which debuted last year featuring similar revisions to their charging case.

#### Consequences of the Design Modifications

By minimizing the size of the charging case and omitting the pairing button, Apple intends to establish a more consistent design across its premier AirPods models. This change may also require alterations to the earbuds themselves, depending on the extent of the case’s reduction.

Mark Gurman from Bloomberg formerly pointed out that a new design was forthcoming for the AirPods Pro 3, although specific details were not revealed at that point. Considering it has been three years since the launch of the AirPods Pro 2, the expected modifications are a positive development for enthusiasts of the product.

#### Conclusion

As the unveiling of the AirPods Pro 3 nears, the prospect of a more compact charging case and a refined design is generating enthusiasm. These enhancements not only boost visual appeal but also enhance functionality. The community is eager to see how these modifications will be perceived once the product is officially launched.

Is a more compact AirPods Pro 3 charging case attractive to you? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Status Update on iOS 26 Beta 8 Launch: Join Our Survey

### iOS 26 Beta: Is It Prepared for Release?

The excitement surrounding the upcoming release of iOS 26 is tangible as historical patterns imply that the latest beta, beta 8, could be the last iteration before the official rollout. With the iPhone 17 debut approaching, the query persists: is iOS 26 poised for mainstream use?

#### Historical Evidence Points to Finalization

Historical data reveals a trend where the eighth beta release of iOS typically signifies the shift to the official version. It is noteworthy that, although iOS 12 had a remarkable 12 betas and iOS 11 followed with 10, the last six iOS versions consistently featured eight beta iterations. The resemblances between beta 7 and beta 8 further bolster the idea that the current version is nearing its finish.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to understand that the release version is not the definitive product. Users should anticipate continuous updates after the launch, striving for reasonable performance and the elimination of critical issues rather than absolute perfection.

#### Varied User Experiences

While several users report a largely favorable experience with the iOS 26 beta, others voice apprehensions regarding its readiness. Input from the community showcases a division in user satisfaction:

– One individual reported serious problems with battery drain, excessive heat, and glitches on their iPhone 13 mini.
– Another mentioned that their device overheated while charging, resulting in unexpected shutdowns.
– An iPhone 15 Pro user pointed out Bluetooth connectivity issues, indicating that audio features were malfunctioning.

It is common for devices to heat up during re-indexing following updates, yet ongoing overheating concerns have been documented with both beta 7 and beta 8.

#### Community Input

As the release date nears, feedback from the community becomes more significant. Users are invited to share their insights and perspectives on whether they feel iOS 26 is prepared for release or if additional revisions are required.

#### Conclusion

With the iPhone 17 launch approaching, the preparedness of iOS 26 is still a subject of discussion. Although historical trends suggest that beta 8 might be the conclusive version, user experiences are vastly disparate. As the community provides input, it will be intriguing to observe how Apple manages the issues raised prior to the official launch.

German Court Decides Apple Watch is Not Carbon Neutral

**German Court Challenges Apple Watch’s Carbon Neutrality Claims**

In a pivotal verdict, a German court has ruled that Apple is no longer allowed to market the Apple Watch as a carbon-neutral item. This ruling comes after environmental advocates contended that Apple’s assertions misrepresented the ecological ramifications of its products.

The Frankfurt court concluded that Apple’s labeling of the Apple Watch as CO2-neutral was deceptive. The dispute emerged after Apple launched its inaugural carbon-neutral products, which included the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, in September 2023. As a consequence of the ruling, Apple is required to modify or eliminate any carbon neutrality terminology in its advertisements within German retail stores and online platforms.

In the United States, the Apple Online Store still advertises certain Apple Watch models as carbon neutral when combined with specific bands, including the Sport Loop, Milanese Loop, and Braided Solo Loop for the Apple Watch Series 10.

Apple’s environmental report reveals that the carbon footprint of an Apple Watch is roughly 8kg CO2, signifying an estimated 80% decrease compared to figures from 2015. To achieve a net carbon footprint of zero, Apple offsets carbon credits for every product it sells. The company implements various eco-friendly practices, such as utilizing low-carbon electricity, recycled materials, and alternative shipping methods, favoring ocean freight over air transport. Apple highlights that it applies carbon credits only after considerably lowering emissions.

The German court’s ruling prompts inquiries about the legitimacy of Apple’s carbon neutrality claims, particularly regarding the dependence on carbon credit offsets in determining net zero emissions. Presently, Apple designates both the Apple Watch and Mac mini as carbon-neutral products and has pledged to achieve zero net emissions across its complete product lineup by 2030.

Parallels Desktop 26 Debuts with Compatibility for macOS 26 and Enhanced Enterprise IT Management Capabilities

**Parallels Desktop 26: Enhancing Windows on Mac Experience**

For almost twenty years, Parallels has been at the forefront of solutions for executing Windows on Mac systems. With the launch of Parallels Desktop 26, the company persists in its innovation, concentrating on both the user experience and IT management features. This version features immediate support for macOS 26 Tahoe and Windows 11 25H2, alongside noteworthy enhancements aimed at IT professionals overseeing virtual machines.

### What is New with Parallels Desktop 26?

Parallels Desktop 26 presents multiple enhancements designed to elevate the user experience while operating virtual machines. A significant update is the precise disk visibility feature, which resolves a frequent problem in previous iterations where Windows showed incorrect available storage on the Mac. This inconsistency could result in performance complications during substantial installations. With this latest iteration, Windows now correctly indicates the actual disk space accessible on the Mac.

Moreover, Parallels Desktop 26 adjusts to the new background process limitations introduced in macOS 26. These modifications ensure that vital functionalities, like Coherence Mode, continue to operate smoothly without disruptions.

Prashant Ketkar, Chief Technology and Product Officer at Parallels, highlighted the company’s dedication to Apple innovation and the necessity of supplying robust tools for IT teams and developers.

### What is New for IT Teams?

Parallels Desktop 26 also unveils features tailored specifically for IT teams responsible for software deployment across various devices. One of the primary enhancements is the detailed policy controls offered through the Parallels Desktop Enterprise Management Portal. This function enables IT administrators to apply settings related to shared folders, USB access, clipboard sharing, and network modes across all virtual machines, guaranteeing compliance with organizational security protocols.

Additionally, Parallels has updated its SOC 2 Type II audit, reinforcing assurance for enterprise clients concerning the platform’s compliance with security mandates.

A fresh deployment guide has been released, offering step-by-step guidelines for installing and overseeing a single Windows application on a Mac. This capability allows users to utilize essential Windows applications without engaging with the complete Windows or Parallels interface.

IT teams can now monitor and handle Windows updates within virtual machines via their device management services. Parallels supplies scripts on GitHub that permit administrators to verify update statuses, conduct scans, and start installations without direct engagement with the virtual machine.

### Wrap Up on Parallels Desktop 26

Although Parallels Desktop 26 may not offer a multitude of new features for end users beyond compatibility with the latest macOS and Windows editions, it persistently enhances the overall experience. The update underscores improved visibility and control for IT teams, establishing Parallels as a vital element in the enterprise environment for Apple users requiring access to Windows applications.

Advancements in disk space visibility and support for background processes will lead to a more dependable daily experience for users. Parallels Desktop 26 is currently available in Standard, Pro, Business, and Enterprise editions, commencing at $99 per year for the standard edition.

Level Lock Pro Now Offered with Apple Home Key, Matter Compatibility, and Extra Features

Since Apple unveiled Home Key, it has rapidly established itself as a vital feature for smart locks. Basic HomeKit compatibility no longer suffices. Unlocking your front door with a simple tap from an iPhone or Apple Watch feels enchanting, and once experienced, it’s challenging to envision returning to traditional keys or an app. Level was among the pioneers to adopt Home Key, and it has now returned with its most sophisticated product to date: the Level Lock Pro. It’s the most compact smart lock available, seamlessly integrating into your door (it doesn’t appear to be a smart lock at all), and it is equipped with Matter over Thread technology.

### What Comes with Level Lock Pro

Upon opening the box, you will find everything necessary to swap out your existing deadbolt for the Level Lock Pro. Included is the lock itself, a strike plate, mounting hardware, a CR2 battery, two standard keys, and two NFC key fobs. The fobs function similarly to Home Key on your iPhone or Apple Watch. You simply tap them on the lock to open the door. They are especially helpful for children who do not have iPhones.

The company also offers an optional keypad if you wish to use PIN codes for those who require temporary access to your home, but it is not essential for initial use. The battery is pre-installed, allowing most users to set it up in under fifteen minutes with just a Phillips head screwdriver.

Like previous Level models, it accommodates standard deadbolt cutouts and is designed to blend into the door frame. If your door features the typical bore hole size and backset length, installation can be completed without additional drilling. For thinner doors, spacers are provided to ensure the lock remains secure. Overall, setting up Level Lock Pro is akin to installing all deadbolts, whether smart or traditional.

### Key Attributes

The standout feature of Level Lock Pro is Matter over Thread. This allows for rapid connection, dependable performance, and compatibility across major platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. It also includes Bluetooth connections as a backup, ensuring the lock remains functional even during internet or power outages.

The lock is crafted to resemble a conventional deadbolt. It is 62% smaller than an average smart lock, fitting entirely within your door. There are no cumbersome battery packs or external sensors attached to the frame. One of the most remarkable aspects is the new door status detection. Rather than depending on a magnetic sticker that may fall off or become misaligned, Level has integrated the sensor directly into the lock, allowing it to discern if the door is open or closed without requiring additional hardware.

Battery life appears robust based on the technical specifications, although it has yet to be confirmed. Level asserts that the supplied CR2 battery can last up to a year before needing replacement, though individual usage will affect this duration. Built-in features encompass auto lock, activity history, guest sharing, and Apple Home Key compatibility. To unlock your door, you can use your iPhone and Apple Watch with Home Key, the Home app, the Level app, NFC fobs, a regular key, or the keypad.

Level Lock Pro boasts an IP54 weather rating and an AAA security rating. In practical terms, IP54 can endure everyday dust, rain, and splashes without issue. However, it is not intended to withstand complete submersion in water.

### Conclusion

An in-depth review of Level Lock Pro will be published soon, but based on the specifications and previous experiences with Level products, this appears to be an outstanding smart lock. Level has consistently prioritized the harmonious blend of design, security, and usability in ways that other companies frequently overlook. With Matter over Thread, integrated door status detection, and a form factor that seamlessly fits into your door, Level Lock Pro is likely to emerge as the premier choice for Apple users seeking a smart lock that feels intuitive and dependable.