Almost everyone in my immediate friends and family circle is sloppy about Apple updates.
I’m often shocked when I catch a glimpse of their iPhone, Mac or iPad and see it’s running some outdated version of the device’s operating system.
I, on the other hand, am always checking for the latest firmware.
My wife rolls her eyes, like I’m some fanatic weirdo. But when family members come bleating after they get a security scare, like a dodgy virus popup, I smugly tell them it’s their own fault — they should stay on top of updates.
The upcoming iOS 26.6 update looks at first glance like a gigantic snoozer, just a maintenance update with some bug and security fixes and no major new features.
But look again. There’s a huge behind-the-scenes feature that everyone will want to be on top of — even my own neglectful family and friends.
Also in today’s newsletter:
Today’s AI tools are still largely black boxes, but Anthropic has been doing fascinating work recently trying to probe its inner workings. Anthropic’s new iOS Simulator provides a fascinating window into how Claude Code operates.
Code hidden in the latest iOS beta suggests that Apple might take pretty drastic steps if you fall behind on payments under its upcoming leasing program.
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Wow, it’s kinda funny how quickly Apple fixed the gaping Hide My Email hole after some public scrutiny.
I keep forgetting my iPhone’s a portable battery.
We got a ton of votes and comments on yesterday’s poll about Apple’s proposed installment plan, which is a bit surprising because most readers said they had little interest in it. See below. And take today’s poll about the consequences of falling behind in payments if you do use Apple Upgrade.
— Leander Kahney, EIC.
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One more thing ...
Well, my favorite things in life are books, sushi and ... My favorite things in life don't cost any money. It's really clear that the most precious resource we all have is time.
Today’s poll
How do you feel about Apple's plan to restrict your iPhone if you fall behind on payments?
Yesterday’s poll results
Best reader comments
Subscribe to The Weekender — Get the week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.