iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1: Third Public Beta Released

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Technology Insights Daily
October 22, 2025

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Apple has rolled out the third public beta of iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1, signalling that the updates are moving closer to general release. Among the notable changes: expanded language support for Apple Intelligence and Live Translation, UI refinements (such as in the Phone and Photos apps), and adjustments to multitasking on iPad. For users, this means a more polished experience than the initial iOS 26 launch — fewer bugs, improved responsiveness, and more mature features. Developers and early adopters should test their apps now to ensure compatibility ahead of the broad rollout. For everyday users, it's a sign to prepare: backup your device and wait for the official release window, likely soon.

In a major announcement, Apple introduced the 14-inch MacBook Pro refreshed with its new M5 chip, offering up to 3.5× the AI computing power of the previous generation plus up to 1.6× faster graphics. Storage speeds have also doubled in some configurations, and battery life remains at up to 24 hours. The pricing stayed consistent with the previous model, indicating Apple is pushing performance upgrades without inflating cost. For professionals working with AI models, video editing, or heavy compute loads, this looks like a substantial upgrade. Whether you’re considering switching from an older MacBook or simply planning ahead, the M5 MacBook Pro marks Apple’s next leap in combining chip power with device efficiency.

Observant consumers and retailers are reporting dwindling inventory for the HomePod mini and Apple TV across Apple Stores and online channels — a common prelude to product refreshes. Rumours suggest the next-gen devices may feature upgraded chips (for example S9-class for the HomePod mini and A17 Pro for Apple TV), improved Wi-Fi connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E/7), and tighter integration with Apple Intelligence. If you’re in the market for either device, this might be a good time to pause your purchase and wait for the update — the current model may drop in price or be replaced shortly. For home-automation and smart home enthusiasts, this could mean stronger capabilities in the near future.

During his visit to China, Apple CEO Tim Cook was presented with a one-of-a-kind Labubu figurine — a custom version of the popular artist-designed toy, tailored to Cook with glasses, black jeans, sneakers and a tiny iPhone-17. The gesture goes beyond a simple gift: it underscores Apple’s cultural engagement in China and its investment in local market relationships through creative collaborations. For Apple watchers, this scene highlights how Apple leverages soft diplomacy and brand-licensing to deepen its footprint in a key region. It’s a subtle reminder that technology firms often play a role in cultural as well as commercial dynamics.

Samsung Electronics has officially scheduled its “Worlds Wide Open” Galaxy event for October 21, where it is expected to unveil its first XR headset, codenamed Project Moohan, built on the Android XR platform (in partnership with Google LLC and Qualcomm Incorporated). Rumors point to a premium headset targeting immersive and everyday AI-driven experiences — potentially signalling a shift in the XR space as Samsung enters with open platform ambitions. For the tech ecosystem, this could raise pressure on competitors like Apple and Meta in mixed-reality, especially as immersive AI becomes a key value driver. If you’re following XR/trends in spatial computing, this event may be a milestone.

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