390 - Immersive Vision Pro Films, AirPods Pro 3 on Flights, and iOS 26 Tips

Summary In Episode 390 of In Touch With iOS, host Dave Ginsburg is joined by Jill McKinley, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, Eric Bolden, and Ben Roethig to tackle Apple's latest updates with a mix of analysis and humor. The panel begins with VisionOS 26.1 beta 2, highlighting improved game controller responsiveness and Apple's new immersive films—from Hawaii's volcanoes to Maine's autumn colors. Marty jokes Apple just used the Photos app's magic wand to turn summer into fall, while the group teases about running out of U.S. states to film. They also discuss the quirky Hover strap accessory that "flips up like old-man sunglasses" with ad copy quoting "When a problem comes along, you must flip it." iOS 26.1 beta 2 gets attention for bigger alarm buttons, a snooze/stop redesign, and expanded Apple Intelligence languages. On iPad, the return of Slide Over sparks relief, while microphone gain control earns praise for podcasters. Apple's Fitness app adds custom workouts, and AirPods Pro 3 receive a firmware update. Marty shares a hilarious inflight story: the new seal was so tight his ears went "poppity, poppity, poppity" during descent. The crew explores iPhone 17's USB-C capabilities—charging AirPods, external displays, Ethernet, even other iPhones. Jeff jokes about using USB-C mics for bird-watching apps, while Eric tests charging his Apple Watch directly from the iPhone. Other highlights: Amazon Prime splurges (camera arms, Stream Decks, car jumpers, and audio gear). Tag Heuer's $1,600 Connected E5 smartwatch, now iPhone-certified—"a $1,600 dongle for your wrist." Apple's Colorado outdoor influencer event (hiking + AirPods demos). Cosmic Orange skins from Dbrand, prompting jokes about spray-tanning MacBooks or eating Cheetos near your iPhone. Liquid Glass design spreading to more Apple apps. CarPlay tensions: Rivian's refusal, Aston Martin as the lone CarPlay Ultra supporter, and frustration over automakers backtracking. Jeff warns CarPlay Ultra might never gain widespread adoption unless Apple compromises. The panel closes with laughs about hidden iPhone call history ("your spouse's attorney already knows"), cosmic orange hunting gear, and CarPlay Ultra being more elusive than a lottery win. Topics and Links In Touch With Vision Pro this week. visionOS 26.1 Beta 2 Release Notes | Apple Developer Documentation Dave's review. Apple releases new 'Elevated' episode for Apple Vision Pro - 9to5Mac Marty found a new headset extension call the Hover headset. https://hoverheadset.com/?country=US Beta this week. iOS 26.1 Beta 2 was released this week. iOS 26.1 beta 2 now available iPadOS 26.1 beta 2 available now, here's what to expect iPadOS 26.1 Beta 2 Reintroduces Slide Over Multitasking watchOS 26.1 beta 2 rolling out now for Apple Watch users tvOS 26.1 beta 2 now available for Apple TV 4K Apple Seeds Second Betas of iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1 and More Apple Seeds Second Public Betas of iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1 and macOS Tahoe 26.1 Everything New in iOS 26.1 Beta 2 Apple Fixes Alarms in iOS 26.1 5+ New Features Your iPhone Will Get in iOS 26.1 Apple Releases New Firmware for AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 What can I plug into my iPhone 17 USB-C port? AirPods Pro 3 Experience on Plane - Marty 🔋 Charging Apple Watch and iPhone Together with MagSafe What You Need • iPhone with USB-C (iPhone 15 models and later) • MagSafe Charger (for iPhone) • Apple Watch Magnetic Charger (USB-C version) How to Set It Up 1. Charge your iPhone via MagSafe • Place your iPhone on the MagSafe Charger connected to a wall adapter. • This gives your iPhone continuous power. 2. Connect your Apple Watch charger to your iPhone • Plug the Apple Watch's USB-C charging puck into your iPhone's USB-C port. • Place your Apple Watch on the puck. 3. Both devices charge at once • Your iPhone is powered by MagSafe. • At the same time, your iPhone passes power through its USB-C port to your Apple Watch. Notes & Tips • This setup is handy for travel: only one wall adapter needed. • The iPhone passes enough power for accessories like Apple Watch and AirPods, but not for larger devices. • Your iPhone may warm up slightly since it's charging itself and providing power out at the same time