Forced ads for iPhone owners spark backlash; New setting now available

Apple has granted iPhone users the ability to turn off promotional notifications in the Apple Wallet app in the iOS 26 Developer Beta version. This update comes following backlash from users over the company's intense and aggressive promotion of its original production, "F1 the Movie".

IPHONE USERS REBEL

Apple's original production "F1 the Movie" focuses on the world of Formula 1 and stars Brad Pitt. The film was shot during actual Grand Prix races and also highlights the use of Apple technology on the track.

In the film, in-car footage is captured with iPhone-exclusive cameras, and the character Sonny Hayes, an F1 driver played by Brad Pitt, is shown sleeping while wearing AirPods Max headphones.

However, Apple's promotion of the film to iPhone users via the Wallet app was met with intense backlash on social media, particularly in the US.

The notifications, which offered a 10-dollar discount on movie tickets through the Fandango app, were sent without user consent, sparking significant outrage.

Reddit users voiced their opposition to receiving such ads on their devices, with comments such as "I don't want to see ads on a phone I paid over 1000 dollars for."

Following this backlash, a new setting has emerged that allows iOS 26 Developer Beta users to turn off "Offers & Promotions" notifications in Apple Wallet. To disable this setting, users can tap the three-dot icon in the top right corner of the Wallet app, enter the "Notifications" section, and toggle off the relevant switch.

Source: Shiftdelete.net