Author: RSS Feed

  • |

    Apple releases new AirTag 2 firmware


    Apple has begun rolling out a new firmware update for the second-generation AirTag, which launched earlier this year in January 2026.

    As first spotted by MacRumors, the update brings firmware version 3.0.49 to the AirTag 2. This marks only the second firmware release for the device since its debut.

    The prior update, version 3.0.45, arrived in late March 2026. It improved the unwanted tracking sound to make it easier to locate an unknown AirTag using Precision Finding, along with standard bug fixes and other improvements.

    Apple has not yet provided official release notes for version 3.0.49. The company typically updates its support page with details shortly after widespread deployment. We’ll update this post once more information becomes available.

    Apple does not offer a manual installation method for firmware updates — they roll out automatically when the AirTag is in Bluetooth range of your iPhone or other Apple device. To verify which version your tracker is running:

    1. Open the Find My app.
    2. Tap the Items tab.
    3. Select your AirTag from the list.
    4. Tap the name of your AirTag — the firmware version and serial number will be displayed.

    Owners should keep their AirTag 2 near their iPhone periodically to ensure they receive the latest firmware. This update continues Apple’s steady refinement of the AirTag 2’s tracking capabilities, building on its improved Precision Finding, expanded range, and louder speaker introduced at launch.


    .

    [Thanks to MacDailyNews Reader “Fred Mertz” for the heads up.]

    Source link: https://macdailynews.com/2026/05/27/apple-releases-new-airtag-2-firmware/

  • |

    Apple shifts leadership on long-running non-invasive blood glucose monitoring project for Apple Watch, signaling potential progress

    Apple has been working on non-invasive blood glucose monitoring for the Apple Watch for more than 15 years, a potential game-changing feature that could transform diabetes management by eliminating the need for finger pricks or separate continuous glucose monitors. According to Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman, the project has recently seen a significant leadership change that some interpret as a positive development.

    Gurman reports that Apple shifted oversight of the blood sugar monitoring initiative from platform architecture chief Tim Millet to Zongjian Chen, a senior engineer known for delivering results on advanced technologies.

    Gurman wrote: “Some view the transition as a sign the work may finally be progressing to a point where Chen, known as someone who delivers, can ramp up development of the technology into an eventual consumer-grade offering.”

    This move comes amid ongoing efforts to bring the ambitious health feature to market. In 2023, Gurman detailed how Apple’s system is expected to function using optical technology rather than invasive sensors.

    As Gurman previously explained: “The system uses lasers to emit specific wavelengths of light into an area below the skin where there is interstitial fluid — substances that leak out of capillaries — that can be absorbed by glucose. The light is then reflected back to the sensor in a way that indicates the concentration of glucose.”

    An algorithm would then process the data to determine blood glucose levels, with the potential to alert users to signs of prediabetes in addition to helping those already diagnosed with diabetes.

    While the leadership shift has generated optimism among those following the project, Gurman and analysts caution that a consumer-ready version remains years away — if it arrives at all. Technical challenges around accuracy, regulatory approval, and reliability for medical use are substantial. Still, successfully integrating non-invasive blood sugar monitoring would make the Apple Watch an indispensable tool for millions, offering unprecedented convenience and comfort in daily health tracking.

    The development underscores Apple’s continued heavy investment in health features, building on existing capabilities like ECG, blood oxygen sensing, and irregular heart rhythm notifications. For people living with diabetes or at risk of prediabetes, this remains one of the most anticipated advancements in wearable technology. Stay tuned for further updates as the project evolves under its new leadership.

    If non-invasive blood glucose monitoring comes to Apple Watch, the company will not be able to make enough of them to satisfy demand.


    .

    Source link: https://macdailynews.com/2026/05/26/apple-shifts-leadership-on-long-running-non-invasive-blood-glucose-monitoring-project-for-apple-watch-signaling-potential-progress/