Adam Engst explores what it’s like to use Apple’s digital car key technology in the real world, detailing how Digital Key 2 on his new Hyundai IONIQ 5 lets him unlock, lock, and start the car with just an iPhone or Apple Watch—plus creative workarounds when devices run out of charge. He also shares his conflicted thoughts on Apple’s 50th anniversary, explaining why the community that formed around Apple matters more to him than the company itself. On the practical side, we warn that iOS 26.4 contains a CloudKit bug that’s disrupting iCloud sync for some users (a fix is coming) and note that Apple has released iOS 18.7.7 so those still on iOS 18 can protect themselves against the DarkSword exploit without upgrading to iOS 26. Notable Mac app releases this week include Fantastical 4.1.11, Mactracker 8.2, MarsEdit 5.4.3, OmniOutliner Essentials and Pro 6.1, and Unite Pro 1.2.1.
A CloudKit notifications bug in iOS 26.4 breaks real-time iCloud sync for some apps and users. Data isn't lost, but changes will either be delayed or won't appear until you switch apps. A fix is in the iOS 26.5 beta.
To address the DarkSword exploit, Apple now lets iOS 18 users install the iOS 18.7.7 security update instead of upgrading to iOS 26.4. If you’re still using iOS 18, update immediately.
Rather than revisiting Apple’s corporate milestones at its 50th anniversary, Adam Engst reflects on how the community around Apple once fostered connection and idealism—and why rebuilding that human infrastructure may matter more than celebrating the company.
Setting up Digital Key 2 for a second driver was harder than expected, but now we’re leaving the bulky key fob at home almost all the time. Here’s what we’ve found in a few weeks of living with smartphone-based car keys.
Watchlist
Maintenance release with improvements and bug fixes for the calendar app. ($57 annual subscription, free update, 68.5 MB, macOS 12+)
Adds a new trivia game to the popular encyclopedia of Apple products. (Free, 268.9 MB, macOS 11+)
Brings a few improvements and bug fixes to the blogging app. ($59.95 new, free update, 23.7 MB, macOS 10.15.4+)
Adds over 20 Shortcuts to the Pro edition. ($24.99/99.99 new, free update, 39 MB, macOS 15+)
Adds support for opening supported URL commands directly in Terminal. ($39.99 new, free update, 34.2 MB, macOS 15+)
