Apple created a dedicated phone app for macOS Tahoe, standing apart from FaceTime and bringing live voicemail transcripts, call screening, and real-time translation to your Mac.

• Initial setup steps for using the new Phone app
• Key settings and features: ringtones, call routing, and permissions
• Hold Assist notifies when support hold time ends
• Live Voicemail previews and real-time screening for incoming calls
• Options for silencing and filtering unknown callers
• Calling experience: dialing, FaceTime audio/video, and call options
• In-call features: adding people, call recording, and live transcription
• On-call live translation with language downloads and beta limitations
• Managing call history, favorites, filtering, and blocked numbers

Host: Mikah Sargent

Download or subscribe to Hands-On Apple at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-apple

Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

iOS 26 just dropped, and Hands-On Apple reveals the surprising new features you'll notice first, such as custom message backgrounds and built-in polls that change how you chat with friends. Get the scoop on the subtle details and settings that will likely impact how you use your phone every day.

• Messages app gets refreshed info page and easier contact editing
• Custom conversation backgrounds debut in Messages with photos and colors
• Built-in polling feature launches for group decision-making in Messages
• New message filtering, unknown sender screening, and notification controls explained
• Conversation backgrounds, photo visibility, and contact photo options in Messages settings

Host: Mikah Sargent

Download or subscribe to Hands-On Apple at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-apple

Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Apple just dropped the iPhone 17 lineup and Mikah Sargent walks you through a smart pre-order setup that could be the difference between snagging your dream device on day one or missing out. Find out the exact steps and tips to avoid the dreaded "sold out" message.

Host: Mikah Sargent

Download or subscribe to Hands-On Apple at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-apple

Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.