MacRumors spotted code in the latest iOS 18.4 beta that adds the ChatKit framework to tvOS. This is how Apple devices handle SMS, MMS, and iMessage. However, tvOS is the operating system for HomePods and Apple TVs, neither of which run the Messages app.
So, this could be an indication that the Messages app is coming to a new device that runs on tvOS, such as the long-rumored Apple smart display.
The new voice assistant has been a long time coming, but it won’t get here all at once.
I grabbed a few minutes with the new Alexa at Amazon’s event and was impressed. Gone is the need for “Alexa speak.” Instead, I created a morning wake-up routine just by talking about what I wanted, and controlled several smart home devices without knowing their names or locations.
Of all the new features Amazon announced for the voice assistant, talking to Alexa and having it reliably understand you is easily the biggest improvement.
The show is set to start at 10AM ET. We’re in a (chilly) line outside, waiting to get live blogging. Follow along for all the big announcements.
The smart home company that’s all in on the new wireless protocol has announced its much-anticipated dimmer switch.
The hardwired switch will ship in mid-March for $49.95 and works with single-pole and 3-way configurations. Matter over Thread support means it works with Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings over a local mesh network, but requires a Thread border router.
A smarter Alexa, new Echo hardware, and a lot of Panos Panay. We’re pumped!
The iOS 18.4 beta adds a new Ambient Music category to the Control Center, bringing Chill, Productivity, Sleep, and Wellbeing buttons that let you start an Apple Music playlist with a swipe and tap.
They’re linked to a playlist by default, but 9to5Mac reports you can customize them to kick off any playlist in your library and assign one to the Action Button.
“Ultimate TayTay,” your time has come.