November 2025
iOS & Apple news
Apple has launched a web-based app store: apps.apple.com. Use the menu on the left sidebar to select iPhone, or iPad, or mac, etc. A comprehensive search bar lets you find specific apps, while individual app pages deliver optimized screenshots, descriptions, and details in a clean, web-friendly layout that echoes the native App Store experience.
Apple announced the releases of the new iPad Pro, 14‑inch MacBook Pro, and Apple Vision Pro, all powered by M5. All are now available.
Apple introduces the powerful new iPad Pro with the M5 chip .
iOS 26.1 was released yesterday. As was iPadOS, watchOS, macOS. Apple has included security fixes and some performance improvements.
If you own an iPhone, it’s four-times more likely to be stolen than an Android. , reports Forbes. `The police say “up to three quarters of stolen phones are moved abroad, with 28% ending up in China or Hong Kong.” Put simply, if it’s taken then you’re not getting it back.' `Apple says it’s cracking down with stolen device protection and locational restrictions on sensitive settings, but phones are still stolen and traded. Apple is even reportedly “considering whether to block the use of a (stolen) phone’s IMEI number – a unique 15-digit identifier that can connect that phone to an overseas mobile network."'
Goldman Sachs raises Apple stock price target to $320 on strong demand, reports Investing.com.
The iPhone 17 (base model) has been a strong success. Strong demand for iPhone 17 base model continues, reports Yahoo Finance.
Are you considering an Iphone 17? Here is a nice overview to help you decide what model is right for you, by Macrumors, take a look:
Delta Now Offers iOS 26's Upgraded Boarding Passes in Apple Wallet. `The upgraded boarding passes have an option to turn on Live Activities, allowing you to keep track of your flight at a glance on your iPhone's Lock Screen, and in the Dynamic Island. You can also share the Live Activities widget with others. In addition, new shortcuts provide one-tap access to Apple Maps for airport directions, and to the Find My app for baggage tracking,' reports Macrumors.
[ RUMOR ] Apple `plans' mysterious November 12 retail store ‘event’, `reporter Mark Gurman [ claims ] that Apple employees are gearing up for a retail store event on November 12.'
iOS 26
Apple's iOS 26.1 incudes several new features. Take a look:
Likewise, Macworld reports: These 7 new features make iOS 26.1 a must-have instant iPhone update.
Apple tweaked liquid glass in iOS 26.1. The video clip below shows it, but was recorded when it was still in beta. It gives users a way to make the interface more opaque and easier to read. If you’re on the latest iOS 26.1 developer beta, head to Settings → Display & Brightness → Liquid Glass, and you’ll now see the new “Tinted” setting. Take a look:
Take a look at Macworld's
With 26.2 now in beta, take a look at iOS 26.2 additions of enhanced alerts for earthquakes and imminent threats, and a new tone.
iOS apps
Morpholio's Trace app is a very powerful application for sketching, designing, diagramming, visualizing architecture plans and also landscape architecture plans. It is used by architects, landscape architects, for professional use, but also by anyone who wants to design and create. Olga reported using it more lately. Architect Henry Gao is offering an online live class, teaching students how to use mTrace for architecture and landscape architecture. Olga highly recommends the class.
Suntracker si an app recommended by architect Henry Gao. It is `is an advanced sun tracking app with a clear and intuitive interface. The app provides many great features and visualizations and does not bother you with any ads.' Olga recommends it. There is a free version or trial. The paid version is $9.99.
Alexis points us to PackPoint, an app that `will organize what you need to pack based on length of travel, weather at your destination and any activities planned during your trip.' Enter destination and dates, the app checks weather forecast; select trip activities, such as Business, beach, formal dinner, hiking; choose your style (Repeat outfits or fresh clothes daily); the app generates list - Customized for weather and activities.
WhatsApp has debuted an apple watch app with voice messages and other features, reports Bloomberg.
Some fun wallpapers: Solar system space wallpapers for iPhone . These are free.
tips & tricks
If you are considering having a lot of smart devices around the house, there are many choices in the market. It's a really good idea to stick with those which support Apple's HomeKit. Additionally, it's worth considering those that have a bridge. The bridge connects to your home WiFi, and the accessories connect to the bridge. Olga reported getting a new WiFi after the old one died. It was much, much easier to connect the accessories that used a bridge than the individual accessories.
gadgets & accessories
Architect Henry Gao (also mentioned above in the apps section) has put together a systematic way to decide the iPad you need, based exactly on your needs, for drawing professionally. You can apply his methodology to any type of activity or application that suits you. Additionally, he lists several gadgets for iPhones and iPads. How To Choose The Best iPad For Your Drawing Needs Without Spending A Cent More Than Necessary and 10 must-have accessories that turn a decent sketching experience into a great one (same page, scroll down).
Pay
Apple Card Now Offers 3% Daily Cash Back on Hertz Rental Cars, reports Macrumors.
watch
With watchOS 26.2 (to be released in the near future), Apple will Update Sleep Score Ranges.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 review: A leap forward towards perfection, writes Macworld.
next iPUG
Our next iPUG meeting will be on Tuesday, December 2, at 7 pm Arizona Time.