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9to5Mac Daily: January 9, 2026 – Conversation about Apple Executive Pay and Additional Subjects

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly changing tech landscape, keeping up with the latest news and trends is crucial, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides an easy way to stay informed about the key stories that impact the Apple ecosystem. This podcast caters to individuals who wish to remain updated while on the move.

**What is 9to5Mac Daily?**

9to5Mac Daily is a daily podcast that offers listeners a summary of the leading stories concerning Apple and its products. Each episode is recorded during the weekdays, ensuring that subscribers receive new content consistently. The podcast addresses a broad spectrum of subjects, including product releases, software updates, industry developments, and insights from professionals in the sector.

**How to Listen**

Listeners can tune into 9to5Mac Daily on various platforms, allowing for easy incorporation into their daily schedules. The podcast can be found on:

– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
– [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
– [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
– [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
– [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications

**Exclusive Content with 9to5Mac Daily Plus**

For those seeking a premium listening experience, 9to5Mac Daily Plus provides an ad-free edition of every episode, along with additional content. Subscribers can directly support the podcast by visiting [9to5mac.com/join](http://9to5mac.com/join).

**Engaging with the Community**

Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback. You can contact via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Moreover, ratings and reviews on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) assist others in discovering the show.

**Conclusion**

9to5Mac Daily is an essential resource for anyone interested in Apple news and updates. With its accessibility and captivating content, it acts as an ideal companion for those who wish to stay informed in the continuously changing tech world. Whether you are commuting, exercising, or just unwinding at home, listening to 9to5Mac Daily ensures you stay updated on the latest from Apple.

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9to5Mac Daily: January 9, 2026 - Conversation about Apple Executive Pay and Additional Subjects
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iOS 26 Launches Fresh ‘Games’ Application on iPhone: An Overview of Features and Capabilities

# Apple Games in iOS 26: A Fresh Center for All iPhone Gaming

iOS 26 brings two entirely new applications for iPhone users, one of which is named ‘Apple Games.’ This application acts as a specialized center for gaming, offering a customized space for games and playing alongside friends. The iPhone has emerged as a widely favored platform for gaming, presenting an extensive array of titles ranging from casual games to AAA hits. With the Apple Games app, gamers can effortlessly access their preferred games across iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

## Features of the Apple Games App

When users launch the Apple Games app in iOS 26, they will find five primary sections:

– **Home**: This area provides a quick route to recently played games, suggestions for new titles, and insights into friends’ gaming activities.

– **Arcade**: Centered on Apple Arcade, this section grants access to over 200 games without advertisements or in-app purchases. Users can subscribe to Apple Arcade via the Apple One bundle or as an independent service for $6.99/month.

– **Friends**: This section showcases a summary of Game Center activities from friends and allows users to start gaming challenges.

– **Library**: Users can explore all installed games on their device, with filtering options to organize extensive game libraries. This area also features game achievements and events.

– **Search**: The search function permits users to find games and explore various categories such as Multiplayer, Action, Family, and Puzzle.

With the latest updates in iOS 26.2, the Games app has enhanced controller support, allowing smooth navigation without the need to alternate between the controller and touch input.

## Conclusion

The Apple Games app in iOS 26 elevates the gaming experience on iPhones by offering distinct features like filtering options for extensive game libraries and social gaming capabilities. While some attributes may align with the existing App Store app, the Games app distinguishes itself by emphasizing community and tailored gaming experiences. Users are encouraged to delve into the app and share their favorite features.

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iOS 26 Launches Fresh 'Games' Application on iPhone: An Overview of Features and Capabilities
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Visible Wireless Presents $19/Month Promotion That May Attract Mint Mobile Customers to Switch

Utilize the promo code and the discounts are yours!

If you’re similar to me, the onset of a new year signifies it’s time to reassess your phone plan and (ideally) save some money in the process. Luckily, numerous top-tier wireless carriers in the industry provide special temporary offers during this season, and Verizon-owned Visible Wireless is no exception.

Enroll today with the promo code SWITCH26 at checkout and you might save up to $12 each month for 26 months. While it might not seem substantial, Visible’s plans are already quite economical, so this promotion could significantly change your perception of your phone bill in 2026 (and beyond). Let’s break it down for clarity.

Even though it’s not officially an MVNO, I still regard Visible Wireless as one of the premier prepaid carriers available, due to the company’s transparent plan structure and the fact that it utilizes Verizon’s 5G network.

The carrier provides three plan choices starting at the Basic Visible plan (typically $25 per month) and extending to the more comprehensive Visible Plus Pro plan ($45 per month without the promotion). Applying the code SWITCH26 at checkout reduces costs by $6, $9, and $12 for the Visible Basic, Visible Plus, and Visible Plus Pro plans, respectively, and the offer secures the discounted price for over two years with no hidden charges whatsoever.

In other terms, if you utilize the promotion to save $12 each month on the Visible Plus Pro plan, you’re essentially receiving six months of Verizon-powered wireless for FREE over 26 months. That plan also includes unlimited premium data on Verizon’s Ultra Wideband network, an unlimited mobile hotspot, and extensive coverage to over 85 countries globally.

Even if you select one of Visible’s less comprehensive data plans, you’ll still enjoy unlimited talk, text, and data on Verizon’s acclaimed network, a complimentary mobile hotspot, discounts on home internet, and much more.

Why should I transition to Visible?

Visible Wireless stands out as it provides the ease and flexibility of a prepaid carrier along with the support and coverage of a Big Three provider. There are only three clear plans to select from, and all three include unlimited talk, text, and data on Verizon’s extensive 5G network. You won’t have to worry about hidden fees, unlimited hotspot data is included, and because Verizon owns and manages the carrier, de-prioritization is rare.

Does Visible Wireless offer a free trial?

Absolutely! Visible Wireless has a 15-day free trial that allows you to discover the details of its service without any hassle or commitment. You can even run it concurrently with your current phone plan without interruptions.

Does Visible Wireless provide smartphones?

Yes! While I don’t favor its phone deals as much as those from, let’s say, Mint Mobile, Visible Wireless does present occasional phone promotions throughout the year that can get you the latest Android devices for affordable prices (or even free) if you play your cards right.

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Visible Wireless Presents $19/Month Promotion That May Attract Mint Mobile Customers to Switch
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“Most Recent Update Eliminates Lock Screen Advertisements and Unwanted Software”

The company is at last responding to all the feedback that users have been outspoken about. Nothing has revealed an update that tackles user issues with its software, with a specific emphasis on eliminating unnecessary features and bloatware. The update, announced on January 9, involves the removal of the Lock Glimpse feature from Nothing Phone a Series devices, with the exception of the Lite version, based on user input. The company intends to bring back the feature only after considerable enhancements are made to lessen its intrusiveness.

Moreover, Nothing is offering users a way to completely eliminate bloatware, including Meta service apps, from their devices. Users are now able to disable these applications and restart their devices to erase them from the system partition. However, these services will reappear if the device undergoes a factory reset.

In addition, Nothing is launching “app recommendations” as part of the device setup process and after specific updates. Users can either ignore these notifications or turn them off completely through the settings. The company is also endeavoring to enable the uninstallation of App Services in upcoming updates for more phones.

These modifications arise after users voiced their discontent regarding the existence of bloatware in Nothing’s OS 4.0 software. Previously, the company had permitted users only to disable such applications, but the new update offers a total removal option, responding to user calls for a more streamlined software experience.

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Google’s Gemini Makes Progress in Rivals with ChatGPT in the Generative AI Sector

Google’s monotony benefits Gemini, as it finally begins to achieve improved traffic metrics.

What you must know:
– A report from Similarweb, a digital analytics firm, indicates that Google’s Gemini is starting to make notable progress against its rival, ChatGPT.
– Gemini has attained 21.5% of the traffic share for Gen AI products as of early this year, while ChatGPT has decreased to 64.5%.
– Earlier in 2025, one of Google’s objectives was to bolster Gemini’s market presence, and it achieved this by offering some premium features at no cost to all users.

In the realm of generative AI, there’s much to observe; however, data firms are recognizing a change in how users allocate their time in search of answers.

This week, Similarweb reported on X that generative AI website traffic is gradually changing, as a familiar competitor gains traction. According to the analytics from the digital data firm, Google’s Gemini has captured 21.5% of the traffic share by January 2, 2026. Leading the pack is OpenAI’s ChatGPT holding 64.5% of traffic share. One clear takeaway from Similarweb’s data: ChatGPT and Gemini are the dominant players in terms of traffic.

Among the numerous AI options, ChatGPT and Gemini comprise approximately 86% of the traffic. The remaining 14% is shared among DeepSeek, X’s Grok, Perplexity, Claude, and Microsoft’s Copilot (in that order).

Even when delving into AI tool traffic, ChatGPT and Gemini still dominate, although the former commands the larger share.

What’s fascinating about Gemini’s current standing is its steady gain over the past few months. In fact, this has been a consistent trend throughout 2025. Similarweb’s timeline illustrates how Gemini’s traffic share has incrementally risen, from 5.7% a year ago to 18.2% in December 2025.

Gemini vs. ChatGPT

Expanding Gemini’s market share has been a priority for Google, as the firm made a strategic choice: premium features are now complimentary.

To elucidate, this involved Google making its Gemini 2.5 Pro experiment available for free just four days after its launch in March. OpenAI’s ChatGPT emerged unexpectedly, yet it reflects how the general public perceives that Gen AI chatbot, in contrast to all other companies’ versions. Upon its release, ChatGPT amazed and retained users, reaching 700 million monthly active users.

This is when Google began its strategic adjustments towards Gemini, followed by Apple positioning itself within the landscape. The reality is that everyone was striving to catch up. While many companies are still attempting to do so, Gemini seems to be advancing at a quicker pace, at least according to the data.

Google and OpenAI are both maintaining their momentum, with the former unveiling Gemini features for its TV service, transforming it into an additional companion. Meanwhile, OpenAI recently launched ChatGPT Health, a specialized chatting experience with its AI that assists users with medical records and app data.

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Google's Gemini Makes Progress in Rivals with ChatGPT in the Generative AI Sector
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HomeKit Weekly: Flic Unveils Physical Button Management for Matter-Compatible Gadgets

### The Significance of Physical Controls in a Smart Home

In the age of smart homes, automation is frequently praised for its ease and effectiveness. Nevertheless, there remains a crucial necessity for physical controls that enable users to engage with their devices without depending solely on voice commands or mobile applications. This article examines the importance of physical buttons in smart home configurations, with emphasis on the Flic Hub LR and the Flic Duo as useful solutions for managing Apple Home scenes and devices.

#### Why Physical Buttons Remain Relevant

Although voice control provides a hands-free experience, it is not always the most pragmatic option. For example, when departing home, numerous users prefer to simply press a button to trigger their “Goodbye” scene, ensuring that doors are secured and lights are turned off without needing verbal interaction with a virtual assistant. This inclination for physical controls is notably significant for visitors or family members who might not be acquainted with the smart home setup. A simple button can eliminate the requirement for app installations and complex instructions.

Furthermore, physical buttons offer speed and ease. Navigating through a smartphone interface can be cumbersome, particularly when immediate actions are required. Having a button easily accessible on a coffee table or nightstand allows for prompt control over lights and other devices, enhancing the overall smart home experience.

#### What You Need to Begin

To employ Flic buttons in your smart home, you require a bridge to connect them to your Wi-Fi network and incorporate them into Apple HomeKit. The Flic Hub LR is the suggested option for HomeKit users, as it officially supports Apple’s smart home framework. This hub utilizes Bluetooth 5.1 LE for long-range connectivity, enabling it to manage up to 63 buttons, making it ideal for larger residences. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm port for an optional IR blaster, allowing control of older devices.

#### Utilizing the Flic Duo

The Flic Duo signifies an inventive addition to the Flic range, merging the simplicity of a button with sophisticated gesture controls. When affixed to a wall, it operates as a conventional smart switch, making it intuitive for guests. When held in hand, it activates gesture controls such as swiping and tilting, which can modify volume or skip tracks.

However, users should be aware that Apple’s HomeKit framework has restrictions regarding complex gestures. While the Flic app can take advantage of these features for other platforms, HomeKit integration is mainly constrained to basic actions like single, double, and long presses. A notable feature of the Flic Duo is its built-in speaker, which assists users in locating the device easily if it gets lost.

#### Conclusion

The Flic Duo and Flic Hub LR offer outstanding choices for those in search of physical access controls within their smart home environments. While the Flic Duo presents cutting-edge features, users focused exclusively on HomeKit may also consider the more straightforward Smart Button from Flic. Overall, these devices enhance the smart home experience by delivering intuitive and immediate control over lighting and other scenes, thus making them valuable additions to any automated home arrangement.

– You can purchase the Flic Hub LR from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/49dF9D7).
– You can buy the Flic Duo from [Flic](https://flic.io/duo).
– You can acquire the Smart Button in a 3-pack from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/48DBi24).

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HomeKit Weekly: Flic Unveils Physical Button Management for Matter-Compatible Gadgets
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“2016 Spy Thriller with Flawless Rotten Tomatoes Rating Not Available for Streaming”

something enjoyable to view on Netflix and various streaming platforms can be an overwhelming endeavor if you’re uncertain about your preferences. You’re faced with yet another seemingly unending scrolling experience, searching for that ideal treasure to suit your evening mood, anxious about pressing play on something that initially grabs your attention, fearing there might be something superior waiting just ahead. It becomes even more frustrating to open your streaming applications in pursuit of a specific title, only to find out that none of your subscriptions carry it. The latter situation pertains to “The Age of Shadows,” a 2016 espionage thriller boasting a flawless Rotten Tomatoes rating, which is not accessible to stream in the U.S. as of this moment.

The creation of Kim Jee-woon (writer and director), who is recognized for “The Good, the Bad, the Weird” (2008) and “The Last Stand” (2013), “The Age of Shadows” is a period drama that highlights significant occurrences in Korea’s past that may deeply connect with a broader audience in Korea. It narrates the tale of a faction of Korean resistance fighters combating the Japanese occupation during the 1920s, along with the ethical quandaries faced by those Koreans who cooperated with the new authority.

This narration may be unfamiliar to Western audiences who have not delved into the Japanese-Korean historical context surrounding the Second World War period. However, if you substitute Korea and Japan with France and Germany while keeping the timeframe, you’re likely to arrive at a historical war narrative that’s more recognizable to Western viewers. Incorporate the action sequences that Jee-woon is famous for, and “The Age of Shadows” transforms into a film that cinephiles may wish to stream, particularly those acquainted with his creations. For instance, Jee-woon’s action-laden “The Last Stand” features Hollywood star Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Why isn’t The Age of Shadows on Netflix?

[embedded content]

Kim Ji-woon ‘s historical spy thriller debuted out of competition at the Venice Film Festival. Following that, “The Age of Shadows” was nominated as Korea’s entry for the Oscars’ Best Foreign Language Film category, although it ultimately did not secure a nomination. The film was released in theaters across North America in September 2016, although the majority of its box-office earnings originated from Korea. “The Age of Shadows” garnered nearly $54.5 million in theaters, with approximately 99% of that total generated in Korea.

Considering its impeccable Rotten Tomatoes score (100% from 49 reviews), “The Age of Shadows” appears to be a strong candidate for streaming services, particularly Netflix, renowned for hosting several popular K-dramas, including “Squid Game,” the Netflix original that achieved global acclaim in recent years. Notably, one of the stars of “The Age of Shadows,” Lee Byung-hun, also features in “Squid Game.” Nevertheless, Netflix does not offer “The Age of Shadows” for streaming at the present time.

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NASA Halts Recent ISS Mission Because of Unexpected Health Issues

to delay the January 8 spacewalk, owing to a “medical issue with a crew member that surfaced […] aboard the orbital facility.” NASA referred to privacy matters, stating it’s “not suitable” for them to disclose further details regarding the crew member involved. There is uncertainty surrounding the situation, with conflicting reports being largely speculative. The spacewalk was set to be performed by NASA’s Zena Cardman and Michael Fincke, alongside two other astronauts making up Crew-11 — including Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui and Roscosmos astronaut Oleg Platanov.

In an email update, NASA provided a bit more insight into the situation: “Ensuring the safety of our missions is our top priority, and we are currently assessing all options, including the potential for a premature conclusion to Crew-11’s mission.” The email continued: “These are the scenarios NASA and our partners prepare for and are ready to execute safely. We will share additional updates within the next 24 hours.”

An update was given during a January 8 press conference led by NASA administrator Jared Isaacman. The conclusion: The Crew-11 mission will be concluding prematurely, with the evacuation of the four team members scheduled to occur within the next few days.

Although this incident brings the space mission to an early conclusion, Crew-11 arrived at the ISS in August 2025, and is already nearing the end of their six-month assignment — which, if everything proceeded as planned, would have wrapped up at the start of February 2026.

Space exploration can be difficult in a general sense: While in orbit, astronauts adhere to a demanding training regimen, as merely three days in space can lead to cognitive health deterioration. Blood samples from astronauts <a href="https://www.bgr.com/science/astronauts-blood-sh

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Disney Plus Aims to Boost Engagement with the Launch of Short-Form Videos

Everybody’s browsing, and Disney aims to join.

(Image credit: Disney+)
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Introducing the Debut of 9to5Mac Forums: A Fresh Platform for Engagement and Conversation

# 9to5Mac Forums: A Fresh Community Hub for Apple Fans

We’re thrilled to unveil a new method for the 9to5Mac community to interact: [9to5Mac Forums](https://9to5mac.com/forums/). Here’s how it functions and all the essential information you need.

## Accessing the 9to5Mac Forums

You can reach the 9to5Mac Forums at this link: [9to5mac.com/forums/](https://9to5mac.com/forums/). The platform is crafted to be intuitive, featuring categories for diverse Apple-related topics, such as hardware, software, and services. Users can initiate their own threads, join discussions, and interact with others by upvoting and downvoting comments.

## Smooth Integration with Current Accounts

A standout feature of the 9to5Mac Forums is its utilization of the same system as the existing 9to5Mac commenting platform. This means there’s no need to set up a new account; you can participate in both comments and forums with a single account.

## A Space for Connection and Conversation

The aim of the 9to5Mac Forums is to foster a lively and engaging atmosphere for readers and Apple enthusiasts to interact. Whether it’s discussing the latest Apple updates, delving into Apple history, or sharing tips and tricks, the forums strive to offer a venue for all interests related to Apple.

The hope is that this initiative evolves 9to5Mac from just a news outlet into a dynamic community where users can connect. Over time, the forums are anticipated to become a primary resource for finding solutions, uncovering useful advice, and connecting with fellow Apple aficionados, all while enjoying daily updates on Apple news.

## Input and Enhancements

The 9to5Mac team is eager to receive feedback from users. They are dedicated to implementing enhancements based on community suggestions. If you have any feedback, inquiries, or issues, the team encourages you to get in touch.

**Join the conversation: [9to5mac.com/forums/](https://9to5mac.com/forums/)**

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