Apple has a big-budget Hollywood blockbuster coming to theaters this weekend—F1 The Movie—and your iPhone’s Wallet app might have just told you about it.Here’s why this is causing backlash.Apple Wallet offer for F1 The Movie prompts advertising complaints Apple makes products people love, like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
And the company also now makes film and TV, most of which lives on Apple TV+.But this weekend, Apple is launching its biggest theatrical swing ever: F1 The Movie.Unsurprisingly, Apple’s marketing team has been pulling out all the stops to promote F1 in hopes of a successful opening weekend.
But one recent move took things a step too far for some.Apple’s Wallet app sent push notifications to iPhone users promoting an Apple Pay offer for F1.The deal lets you save $10 on purchases or two or more F1 tickets.
It’s available through Fandango when using the code APPLEPAYTEN.Many users aren’t thrilled to get advertised to through their Wallet app, however.documented several examples of user complaints, and there are plenty more to be found on social media.
One of my personal favorites is the meme version of the complaint featuring a physical wallet.Interestingly, the iOS 26 beta includes a new toggle in Wallet for disabling notifications just like this.Inside Wallet, there’s a new ‘Offers & Promotions’ notification type that can be turned off.
But that option isn’t included in iOS 18, so it’s only available for the limited number of iOS 26 beta testers.Did you get the F1 notification from Apple Wallet? Let us know in the comments.Best iPhone accessories AirPods Pro 2 (now only $199, down from $249) MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone HomeKit smart plug 4-pack 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day.
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