Apple TV+ series ‘Franklin’ spotlights Benjamin Franklin’s greatest achievement
Apple TV+ in March announced that “Franklin,” a new limited series starring and executive produced by Michael Douglas which… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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First NES emulator for iPhone approved by Apple but pulled by developer
A NES emulator for the iPhone joined App Store on Tuesday ... but was then pulled down by its developer out of "fear." (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Fear of Nintendo's wrath is keeping emulators off of the App Store
Despite Apple's recent rule change, it has been a bumpy few days for emulators on the App Store as small developers fear the wrath of Nintendo and others.Nintendo may be waiting in the shadows to smash any emulator out of existenceSoftware emulation has been around for decades and is perfectly legal, at least the technology is. The implementation of emulators, business models, and how users obtain games live in this unchallenged legal gray area that developers are scared to test.The Google Play Store doesn't restrict developers from submitting emulators either, and plenty of popular versions exist. So, since Apple now allows emulators on the App Store, the world has been standing by waiting for a flood of software built to play old video games — yet it hasn't arrived. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Slow Horses author brings new thiller to Apple TV+
When "Slow Horses" author's "Down Cemetary Road" comes to Apple TV+, it will star Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Keep your Nintendo Switch charged while you play in 4K with this $36 dock/charger
Gamers can take their multiplayer matchups anywhere, and play on smart TVs, with this $35.99 Nintendo Switch dock and charger. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Apple stock drops as analyst calls growth outlook ‘anemic and/or negative’
Apple stock fell again in Tuesday trading after a Wall Street firm lowered its estimates for the company's March quarter following channel… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple Watch Activity badges: Get the Earth Day badge on April 22
Macworld Achievement badges are a funny thing. You know they’re just a simple little bit of visual flair, they don’t even do anything, and yet for some reason you just have to collect them. Achievements are great motivators, and the achievement badges for the activity tracking on the Apple Watch have inspired many users to get more exercise. If you want to maximize your badge count, you’re going to want to chase down as many activity achievements as you can. Most are available year-round, but there are also some time-limited special events to grab, too. Here’s a list of all the activity achievements for the Apple Watch and how to unlock them. Updated 04/16/23: Get your Earth Day badge with a 30-minute workout on April 22. Standard achievements Most of the achievements can be earned year-round. If you open the Activity app on your iPhone, then head over to the Achievements tab, you’ll see some of them listed even before you earn them (in which case they will be represented by a grey outline). However, there are some achievements that are not shown until you earn them. Past and future monthly challenges, for example, won’t show up, nor do all the various individual exercise workouts. Here is a list of all the standard badges you can get. First [exercise] Workout The first time you perform a new exercise for at least 5 minutes, you’ll get a achievement badge. Every workout type that does not fall under the “Other” category is eligible for this badge: from walking to yoga to HIIT to hiking and more. Activities with both indoor and outdoor variants, like Cycling and Walking, are bundled together; you can do either activity to get the badge, and can only get it once. [exercise] Workout Record Every time you beat your previous best record for calories burned in any of the exercises listed above, you get this badge. There is one caveat: You must complete five workouts of that type first. If you want to game the system, make sure your first four workouts of each type are short and easy, so it won’t take much effort to beat them. You get a badge the first time you do each major exercise type, and when you break a record. You get a badge the first time you do each major exercise type, and when you break a record. You get a badge the first time you do each major exercise type, and when you break a record. 7-Workout Week Simply complete any workout of at least 15 minutes every day of the week. Note that the week is Monday-Sunday, and you have to do a workout on each of those days (you can’t simply do any seven days in a row). If you start a walking workout whenever you walk outside, you can achieve this easily. New Move Record Any day that your Move ring goes further than ever before (meaning you burned more calories in a day), you’ll earn this award. There’s one catch: you have to use your Apple Watch for 10 days before you can complete this. New Exercise Record This is just like the Move Record achievement, only for the green ring. This one is based on minutes of exercise, not calories burned, so it’s really easy to get. Just like the Move Record achievement, you have to use your Apple Watch for 10 days first. Move Goal 200%, 300%, 400% You earn this when you exceed your calorie target (the red Move ring) by 2x, 3x, or 4x, respectively. In other words, it’s given for making the red activity ring go around two, three, or four times in a day. It’s easy to get if you just set your Move goal very low. Double, triple, and quadruple your Move ring goal. Reduce your goal if you’re having trouble. Double, triple, and quadruple your Move ring goal. Reduce your goal if you’re having trouble. Double, triple, and quadruple your Move ring goal. Reduce your goal if you’re having trouble. New Move Goal Every time you change your daily Move goal, and then exceed that new goal, you get this achievement. You can change your Move goal by opening the Activity app on your Apple Watch and force-pressing the screen. Longest Move Streak When you hit your Move goal (close the red ring) several days in a row, that’s a “streak.” You get this award when your streak finally ends, if it’s longer than your previous best streak. Perfect Week This is given out for four categories: Move, Exercise, Stand, and All Activity. For the first three, simply close the rings (red, green, or blue) every day of the week. To get the Perfect Week (All Activity) badge, close all three rings every day for an entire week. You can earn this multiple times, though it only shows one badge. Remember, one week in the Activity app is from Monday-Sunday! Close those rings every day from Monday to Sunday to earn a handful of badges. Close those rings every day from Monday to Sunday to earn a handful of badges. Close those rings every day from Monday to Sunday to earn a handful of badges. Perfect Month Unlike Perfect Week, there are not multiple different Perfect Month badges for the different color rings. The lone Perfect Month achievement is for closing the red Move ring every day of the month. There’s a separate Perfect Month badge for every month and every year, though. So you can earn this in February and again in March, and again in February in the next year. Monthly Challenge Each month has its own unique fitness challenge. If you have notifications set for the Activity app on our Apple Watch, you’ll see the goal presented at the beginning of the month, but you’ll also see the current month’s challenge in the Achievements tab of the Activity app on your iPhone. It will be a grey outline before it’s completed, but you can tap on it to see what the challenge entails. The monthly challenge may task you with burning a specific number of calories, working out a number of times, or traveling a certain distance. There’s no telling what each new month will bring, you just have to look! There’s a different challenge every month, so check your Activity app. There’s a different challenge every month, so check your Activity app. There’s a different challenge every month, so check your Activity app. 100, 365, 500, 1,000 Move Goals When you hit your daily Move goal (close the red ring) 100 times, you get an achievement badge. You get another for hitting it 365 times, 500 times, and 1,000 times. These do not need to be in a row; it’s just the total number of times you’ve ever hit the goal. Close the Move ring often to unlock a series of badges. Set the Move goal low if you want to make it easier. Close the Move ring often to unlock a series of badges. Set the Move goal low if you want to make it easier. Close the Move ring often to unlock a series of badges. Set the Move goal low if you want to make it easier. Limited Achievements Apple offers multiple one-off challenges per year that are only available for a limited time. Often, they’re only around for one day or one weekend. Some are limited to the U.S. because they’re based on U.S. holidays. You’ll get a notification on your Apple Watch when one of them is coming up (make sure you have notifications enabled for the Activity app, using the Watch app on your iPhone). Apple makes a number of special time-limited badges available throughout the year. Apple makes a number of special time-limited badges available throughout the year. Apple makes a number of special time-limited badges available throughout the year. Earth Day (April 22) Foundry Foundry Foundry Let’s get moving for the planet. On April 22, do any workout for 30 minutes or more to earn this award. Record it with the Workout app or any app that adds to Health. Heart Month (February 14) Apple Apple Apple This Valentine’s day, it’s all about heart. Close your Exercise ring on February 14 to get this award. Veteran’s Day (November 11) Foundry Foundry Foundry Earn this special award on November 11 by doing any workout for 11 minutes or more. Record your time with the Workout app or any app that adds workouts to Health. National Parks challenge (August 26) Foundry Foundry Foundry In the U.S., the National Parks Service was founded on August 25, 1916. Apple has a National Parks challenge around that time each year to celebrate National Parks all over the world. To get this badge, just record a workout of 20 minutes or more on August 26 with any app that adds workouts to the Health app. International Dance Day (April 29) Apple Apple Apple Earn this award by recording a Dance workout of 20 minutes or more on International Dance Day, April 29. Record it with the Workout app or any app that adds workouts to Health. iOS, Wearables

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Apple to Allow Used Parts in Some iPhone Repairs Later This Year
Apple has announced that, later this year, it will become possible to repair select iPhones with used parts harvested from other devices. But the changes don’t go far enough for many in the Right to Repair movement.Read original article

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Apple faces $8 billion in profit risk, other problems – analyst
Apple’s stock has been under pressure for most of the year and, besides iPhone's sales issues in China, investors might want to take note… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple to let customers watch their own Spatial Videos during Vision Pro demo sessions
Customers in the US can book a Vision Pro demo at one of the Apple Retail Stores to experience the headset for around 30 minutes. During the demo, customers watch some pre-loaded content, including Spatial Videos made by Apple. However, the company will soon let users watch their own content during a Vision Pro demo session. more…

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Bimmy NES Emulator is the latest game emulation app for iPhone, iPad, and Mac
Bimmy NES Emulator is one of the latest game emulation apps to officially land on the App Store. NES may or may not refer to the Nintendo Entertainment Console. more…

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Today in Apple history: Cupertino fires back after Microsoft’s ‘Apple tax’ ads
On April 16, 2009, Apple hit back following a Microsoft ad that criticized Cupertino for failing to sell decent laptops for less than $1,000. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Jerusalem Flag autoprediction bug is fixed in iOS 17.5 developer beta
Apple's second iOS 17.5 developer beta has fixed a bug that showed the Palestinian flag in the predictive text system when users typed in "Jerusalem."An example of the Jerusalem flag bug in iMessage for iOS. On April 10, complaints were made to social media that iOS 17.4.1 had a bug in the autocorrect system. For some iPhone users, typing Jerusalem on the standard keyboard in iMessage offered the Palestinian flag in the predictive text system.At the same time, searching for Jerusalem in emoji search came up with the same result. However, the problem only existed for some users using specific languages, such as British English. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple Watch Activity Challenges set for Earth Day and International Dance Day this month
Prepare to dance and celebrate the planet. Two new Activity Challenges are on the way in April. more…

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Today only: pick up a lifetime Babbel subscription for $149, a discount of $450 off retail
This $450 cash discount on a lifetime Babbel language learning subscription is back for a limited time only, giving you access to the All Languages plan for $149.97.Save $450 on Babbel.For a limited time only, pick up a lifetime subscription to Babbel's language learning platform at the heavily reduced price of $149.97. This Deal of the Week is within $20 of the lowest price on record for the All Languages Babbel subscription that provides users with access to 14 different languages.Buy for $149.97 Continue Reading on AppleInsider

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Apple TV+ announces new thriller series ‘Down Cemetery Road,’ starring Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson
Apple TV+ on Tuesday announced new thriller series “Down Cemetery Road,” starring and executive produced by Academy Award, BAFTA… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Leaks suggest Bose SoundLink Max speaker about to launch
If you're a Bose audio fan, get ready for the new Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth speaker, the larger successor to SoundLink Flex. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Apple Opens Web Distribution Option for iOS Devs Targeting EU
Apple is opening up web distribution for iOS apps targeting users in the European Union starting Tuesday. Developers who opt in -- and who meet Apple's criteria, including app notarization requirements -- will be able to offer iPhone apps for direct download to EU users from their own websites. From a report: It's a massive change for a mobile ecosystem that otherwise bars so-called "sideloading." Apple's walled garden stance has enabled it to funnel essentially all iOS developer revenue through its own App Store in the past. But, in the EU, that moat is being dismantled as a result of new regulations that apply to the App Store and which the iPhone maker has been expected to comply with since early last month. In March, Apple announced that a web distribution entitlement would soon be coming to its mobile platform as part of changes aimed at complying with the bloc's Digital Markets Act (DMA). The pan-EU regulation puts a set of obligations on in-scope tech giants that lawmakers hope will level the competitive playing field for platforms' business users, as well as protecting consumers from Big Tech throwing its weight around. Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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Major Apple supplier TSMC first-quarter profit expected to rise 5% on strong AI chip demand
Major Apple supplier Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the dominant producer of advanced chips used in AI… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple brings out new second-gen betas, including Web Distribution for iOS 17.5
Apple has shifted onto the second round of developer betas, with the latest iteration of iOS 17.5 including Apple's Web Distribution system.iOS 17Developers taking part in Apple's beta program can acquire the new builds via any Apple Developer Center or more directly by updating their iPhone or iPad already running the betas, doing so through the Settings app. Public beta versions generally arrive a short time after the developer versions, and public participants can sign up through the Apple Beta Software Program website.The second betas for iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, tvOS 17.5, watchOS 10.5, and macOS Sonoma 14.5 arrive after the first versions, which surfaced on April 2. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Second developer beta of visionOS 1.2 has arrived
Owners of the Apple Vision Pro can now test out the second developer build of the visionOS 1.2 operating system.visionOSThe second build of visionOS 1.2 surfaces after the first one, which arrived on April 2. The new build is build number 21O5565d, replacing the first beta, build number 21O5555e.It is still unclear exactly what Apple has changed in the new beta cycle, but release notes mention changes were made to fix an issue with FaceTime call synchronization and notification interruption issues for some apps. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Nab Apple Watch SE 2 for up to $60 off on Amazon
If you're on the hunt for a deal on Apple Watch, you can't do much better than Amazon's current Apple Watch SE 2 bargains. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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How iOS Web Distribution works in the EU in iOS 17.5
The new iOS 17.5 beta introduces app sideloading from websites in the EU and Apple has announced both what eligible developers have to do, and what users can expect to see.Apple is allowing EU developers to skip the App Store and offer sideloading from their websitesAs previously expected, the new beta release of iOS 17.5, adds the facility for sideloading apps from a website. Apple had previously resisted allowing this Web Distribution, but was pressured into it by the EU and its Digital Markets Act.Apple has now issued new support articles for developers on what is required for eligibility, and how the sideloading should work for users. The company stresses that it will check apps for basic security and safety. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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iOS 17.5 beta 2 coming today with new Web Distribution sideloading feature in the EU
Last month, Apple announced a new Web Distribution offering for developers in the European Union. With today’s launch of iOS 17.5 beta 2, that feature is now available. Web Distribution gives developers in the EU the ability to offer their apps for download directly from their website. Here’s how it works. more…

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Apple releases second betas for iOS 17.5, macOS 14.5, and more
The iOS 17.5 beta train continues today with the second developer release. Apple is also testing macOS Sonoma 14.5, visionOS 1.1, watchOS 10.5, tvOS 17.5, and HomePod 17.5. more…

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Best USB-C and Thunderbolt displays for Mac [April]
USB-C/Thunderbolt display options have really expanded over the last couple of years. While Apple’s Pro Display XDR isn’t the best fit for most Mac users at $5,000+, it also offers the more affordable Studio Display. But there are also lots of solid choices from LG, Samsung, BenQ, and more. Here are the best USB-C/Thunderbolt displays with many available in the $400-$1,600 range. Update 4/16/24: Samsung’s 5K ViewFinity S9 Thunderbolt monitor is currently for a limited time (normally $1,599). Find more about this monitor below. more…

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Goodbye Leather Apple ad raises questions about FineWoven iPhone cases
A new video from Apple highlights the company's move away from leather iPhone cases. But the replacement has problems. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Apple TV+ series ‘Silo’ Season 2 is in the can
Silo is the story of the last ten thousand people on earth, their mile-deep home protecting them from the toxic and deadly world outside… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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9to5Mac Daily: April 16, 2024 – New iPad Pro evidence, on-device AI rumors
Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players. Sponsored by Kolide by 1Password: The device trust solution that ensures that if a device isn’t secure, it can’t access your apps. Close the Zero Trust access gap for Okta. Watch the demo. more…

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Best pencil or stylus for iPad, iPad Air, Pro and mini
Macworld The iPad is a capable device for both art and productivity, but it becomes a stronger proposition in both areas if you have a good stylus to hand. Whether you’re sketching a new building design, taking notes during a work meeting or designing graphics, a stylus is a game-changer. But with so many to choose from in just about every shape and size, which is the best for your needs? Everyone has heard of the Apple Pencil, but there are plenty of great alternatives that cost a fraction of the price.  Here are the best iPad styluses available right now. Updated November 27 to add Adonit Note+ 2 and the Apple Pencil USB-C Apple Pencil (2nd generation) – Best overall Price When Reviewed: $129 Best Prices Today: $17.99 at Best Buy$129 at Apple$129.99 at Adorama The Apple Pencil is an obvious choice, what isn’t quite so obvious is which Apple Pencil you should choose. There are two Apple Pencils. The Apple Pencil 1st generation is still on sale despite launching in 2015 and there is an Apple Pencil 2nd generation, which launched in 2018. The first generation Apple Pencil, which features later in this round-up, works with the current 9th and 10th generation iPads as well as a number of older iPad models. The second generation Apple Pencil, works with the 12.9in iPad Pro (3rd gen up), 11in iPad Pro (1st gen up), iPad Air (4th gen up) and iPad mini (6th gen). When we reviewed the Apple Pencil 2nd gen back in 2018 we gave it 5 stars. It’s shorter than the original and Apple has given the 2nd gen Pencil a flat edge you can tap to trigger app-specific functions. This actually makes Apple’s stylus easier to hold and it stops it rolling off your desk. The 2nd gen Pencil is also magnetically attachable to the iPad, which also helps with the rolling. Another major change is that the 2018 Pencil has no Lightning connector for charging, instead, it charges wirelessly when connected to the iPad, which is much neater. The 2nd gen Pencil is matt white rather than the glossy white of the original (which could be a bit dazzling). You can also tell the two apart because the original had a metallic ring next to the charging cap. Both the 1st and 2nd generation Apple Pencils are equally responsive and pressure-sensitive. You can tilt the stylus to create different textures, making it a great tool for handwriting, sketching, note-taking and illustration. Read our full Apple Pencil (2nd generation) review Zagg Pro Stylus 2 Price When Reviewed: $79.99 Best Prices Today: $56.99 at Amazon$79.99 at ZAGG mophie$80 at Zagg We loved the original Zagg Pro Stylus so we were happy to hear that there was a new model. The Pro Stylus 2 is a good alternative to the Apple Pencil with many of the same features including wireless charging, a replaceable tip and attaching magnetically to the iPad Air and iPad Pro. One advantage is that unlike the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil the Zag Pro Stylus 2 can be used with any iPad since 2018. The Zagg Pro Stylus 2 is comfortable to hold, has a matt coating, and comes in a selection of colors. There are two tips: a replaceable stylus tip and a capacitive rubber tip which can be used for scrolling and also functions as the power button. To save power, the Pro Stylus 2 switches off automatically after 15 minutes of inactivity. The battery should last for around 6.5 hours. We tested with a number of creative apps and found the experience akin to the Apple Pencil 2, however, it didn’t work well with Adobe Photoshop due to significant delays. If you are using Photoshop then stick with the Pencil 2. Read our full Zagg Pro Stylus 2 review Adonit Note+ 2 Price When Reviewed: $69.99 Best Prices Today: $69.99 at Adonit The Adonit Note+ 2 is a slimline stylus that features an impressive amount of versatility. Housed in an aluminum body that weighs only 14g, it’s comfortable to hold and use for longer writing or sketching sessions. On the body there are two buttons, one is for the standard power and pairing features, but once connected to Bluetooth they can both be programmed in a variety of supported apps to execute commands. So, you might set one for Undo and the other for Redo which enables you to quickly fix mistakes in your note or illustration without having to access menus. In the box you’ll find three different replacement tips – soft, medium and hard – allowing users to tailor the physical experience to their personal preferences. The Note+ 2 supports palm rejection and pressure sensitivity, so long as the app you’re using does too (the list of compatible apps covers pretty much all the big hitters for notes and art). Adonit has also built-in an angle detection technology which means you can have thicker or thinner pen-strokes by simply tilting the stylus. Writing and drawing with the Note+ 2 is smooth and reliable, with the slim profile nestling into the hand. There’s a flat side opposite the buttons which provides a steady grip and is also home to magnets that mean you can attach the stylus to the edge of your iPad when you’re taking a break. Battery life tops out at eight hours, which takes one hour of charging through the USB-C port to achieve. But, if you run out of juice while in the midst of a creative frenzy, five minutes of charging will keep you going for another hour. Apple Pencil (1st generation) – Best for older iPads Price When Reviewed: $99 Best Prices Today: $17.99 at Best Buy$99 at Adorama$99 at Apple The second generation Apple Pencil features earlier this round-up, but we still recommend the first generation Apple Pencil, which is still on sale. The older Apple Pencil works with the current 9th and 10th generation iPads as well as a number of older iPad models including the 6th generation iPad and later, the iPad Air (3rd gen), iPad mini (5th gen) and the original iPad Pro (1st and 2nd gen). If those are the iPads you have that this is the Apple Pencil for you. Unsure: check which iPads work with which Apple Pencil. We compare the two generations of Apple Pencil in Apple Pencil (2018) vs Apple Pencil (2015). One benefit of the older Apple Pencil, assuming it works with your iPad, is that it is cheaper than the second-generation version at $99/£109 rather than $129/£139. The original Apple Pencil is almost entirely white, with just a metallic band at the non-writing end by the charging cap. This cap conceals a Lightning port for charging and syncing. When you want to charge the Pencil you can just plug it into the iPad’s Lightning port or use an adapter if your iPad has a USB-C port (as is the case with the iPad 10th gen). There is a downside to charging this way: you can’t use the Pencil while it is charging and it looks pretty ridiculous. Here’s how to check the Apple Pencil’s battery percentage. The Pencil feels pretty good in the hand, with a nice weight to it. The Apple Pencil and compatible iPads have sensors that can detect the pressure you’re using and the angle you’re holding the stylus at, making it effortless to create lines of different thicknesses. In the Pencil’s tip there are two tilt sensors which the iPad’s display will keep track of to work out the exact orientation and angle of your hands as you draw. For example, you can use the side of the Pencil’s tip for realistic shading like you would with a real pencil lead. The Apple Pencil knows to ignore the wrist and palm You get a spare tip in the box, but it’s identical to the one that comes attached to the Pencil. Read our full Apple Pencil (1st generation) review Apple Pencil (USB-C) Price When Reviewed: $79 Best Prices Today: $66.95 at B&H$69 at Amazon$69.99 at Adorama The Apple Pencil (USB-C) is a slightly confusing entry to Apple’s range of Pencils. It isn’t as good as the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil from 2018 and doesn’t even have all of the same features of the 1st-gen Apple Pencil from 2016. It includes some of the same features as the prior models (including low latency and tilt sensitivity) but is also missing pressure sensitivity and wireless charging – in fact, it is the only model with a port for charging. It attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad for storage, like the 2nd-gen model. It is also shorter than both the 1st-gen and 2nd-gen models (6.10 inches vs 6.92 inches and 6.53 inches). You can’t engrave it. It isn’t compatible with the entry-level iPad. But, at $20/£20 less than the 1st-gen Pencil and $50 less than the 2nd-gen model, it’s cheaper than both. Adonit Star Price When Reviewed: $49.99 Best Prices Today: $49.99 at Adonit$49.99 at Amazon If you want something that feels more like a real pen, a fountain pen at that, then the Adonit Star will be a breath of fresh air. The classic design is reminiscent of a Mont Blanc, but without some of the bulk and most of the price. Popping off the cap reveals a fountain-pen style nib, replete with the ink feed on the back, but on closer inspection, you’ll see that the metal cuts off early, with a black rubber 1mm fine tip being what will actually touch the screen. As you might expect, the Star is very much intended for those who want to make notes and generally just write on their iPad. It doesn’t have pressure sensitivity, so you can’t have thicker or thinner strokes depending on how hard you press, which would rule it out for most artists. That’s fine though, there’s the Apple Pencil for that. Instead, you get a balanced and very comfortable writing experience, aided in no small measure by Adonit’s excellent palm cancellation feature. Pairing is simply a matter of pressing the small button on the Star, then when the blue light comes on you should be good to go. If it starts flashing red, this means it is time for a recharge, so unscrew the bottom of the pen and there’s a USB-C port. The Star takes around an hour to charge and will then work happily for around 10 hours or so. Adonit has come up with something genuinely unique in the Star. Classy looking, nice to write with, and it will definitely get some looks when you pull it out in a meeting to make notes. If there’s such a thing as a Stylus connoisseur, then you can bet that the Adonit Star would be a prizes part of their collection.  Logitech Crayon Price When Reviewed: $69.99 Best Prices Today: $58.99 at Best Buy$69.95 at Apple$69.99 at Adorama While the Logitech Crayon was originally framed as an education tool, the cheap Apple Pencil alternative is now available to anybody that wants it.  In many ways, the Crayon functions in the same way as the Apple Pencil, complete with easy pairing, reliable palm rejection and tilt support, but there’s one big omission: there’s no pressure sensitivity available here. That’s likely to be a dealbreaker for graphic designers, but if you’re only looking to use a stylus for note-taking, you’re unlikely to notice a difference in performance. You’ve also got a seven-hour battery life on offer, which should be more than enough for the majority of consumers, and it’s charged up via a hidden Lightning port. That’s not quite as premium as the wireless charging from the second-gen Apple Pencil, but it’s certainly better than the original Apple Pencil. It’s compatible with the iPad (6-10th gen), iPad mini (5-6th gen), 11in iPad Pro (1-4th gen), 12.9in iPad Pro (3-6th Gen), iPad Air (3-5th gen). Bargains Depot B&D 2-in-1 Stylus Price When Reviewed: $6.99 Best Prices Today: $6.99 at Amazon The B&D Stylus is a bargain at under a tenner. It’s made fully of aluminum and comes with twenty extra rubber tips in two different sizes so you can adjust the accuracy of lines. It’s dual tipped too, so you can use a different size on either end. There is no need for Bluetooth or charging with this stylus. The B&D Stylus is compatible with all iPads, iPhones, and other touchscreen devices. Meko Capacitive Stylus Pen Price When Reviewed: $13.95 Best Prices Today: $12.95 at Amazon The Meko stylus can be used for note-taking, drawing, writing, and basic selection and navigation – and like the B&D option, it is also made of aluminum without any plastic parts. It uses a disc tip like a few other options in this list. For an affordable price, you get two Meko styli, two fibre tips, and four replacement disc tips. For more advice about accessories for your Mac, iPad or iPhone see all our Best Picks. Accessories, iPad, Tablet Accessories

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Who Stole 3.6M Tax Records from South Carolina?
For nearly a dozen years, residents of South Carolina have been kept in the dark by state and federal investigators over who was responsible for hacking into the state's revenue department in 2012 and stealing tax and bank account information for 3.6 million people. The answer may no longer be a mystery: KrebsOnSecurity found compelling clues suggesting the intrusion was carried out by the same Russian hacking crew that stole of millions of payment card records from big box retailers like Home Depot and Target in the years that followed.

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Crickets from Chirp Systems in Smart Lock Key Leak
The U.S. government is warning that smart locks securing entry to an estimated 50,000 dwellings nationwide contain hard-coded credentials that can be used to remotely open any of the locks. The lock's maker Chirp Systems remains unresponsive, even though it was first notified about the critical weakness in March 2021. Meanwhile, Chirp's parent company, RealPage, Inc., is being sued by multiple U.S. states for allegedly colluding with landlords to illegally raise rents.

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Why CISA is Warning CISOs About a Breach at Sisense
The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said today it is investigating a breach at business intelligence company Sisense, whose products are designed to allow companies to view the status of multiple third-party online services in a single dashboard. CISA urged all Sisense customers to reset any credentials and secrets that may have been shared with the company, which is the same advice Sisense gave to its customers Wednesday evening.

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Twitter’s Clumsy Pivot to X.com Is a Gift to Phishers
On April 9, Twitter/X began automatically modifying links that mention "twitter.com" to redirect to "x.com" instead. But over the past 48 hours, dozens of new domain names have been registered that demonstrate how this change could be used to craft convincing phishing links -- such as fedetwitter[.]com, which is currently rendered as fedex.com in tweets.

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April’s Patch Tuesday Brings Record Number of Fixes
If only Patch Tuesdays came around infrequently -- like total solar eclipse rare -- instead of just creeping up on us each month like The Man in the Moon. Although to be fair, it would be tough for Microsoft to eclipse the number of vulnerabilities fixed in this month's patch batch -- a record 147 flaws in Windows and related software.

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Fake Lawsuit Threat Exposes Privnote Phishing Sites
A cybercrook who has been setting up websites that mimic the self-destructing message service Privnote.com accidentally exposed the breadth of their operations recently when they threatened to sue a software company. The disclosure revealed a profitable network of phishing sites that behave and look like the real Privnote, except that any messages containing cryptocurrency addresses will be automatically altered to include a different payment address controlled by the scammers.

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‘The Manipulaters’ Improve Phishing, Still Fail at Opsec
Roughly nine years ago, KrebsOnSecurity profiled a Pakistan-based cybercrime group called "The Manipulaters," a sprawling web hosting network of phishing and spam delivery platforms. In January 2024, The Manipulaters pleaded with this author to unpublish previous stories about their work, claiming the group had turned over a new leaf and gone legitimate. But new research suggests that while they have improved the quality of their products and services, these nitwits still fail spectacularly at hiding their illegal activities.

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Thread Hijacking: Phishes That Prey on Your Curiosity
Thread hijacking attacks. They happen when someone you know has their email account compromised, and you are suddenly dropped into an existing conversation between the sender and someone else. These missives draw on the recipient's natural curiosity about being copied on a private discussion, which is modified to include a malicious link or attachment. Here's the story of a recent thread hijacking attack in which a journalist was copied on a phishing email from the unwilling subject of a recent scoop.

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Recent ‘MFA Bombing’ Attacks Targeting Apple Users
Several Apple customers recently reported being targeted in elaborate phishing attacks that involve what appears to be a bug in Apple's password reset feature. In this scenario, a target's Apple devices are forced to display dozens of system-level prompts that prevent the devices from being used until the recipient responds "Allow" or "Don't Allow" to each prompt. Assuming the user manages not to fat-finger the wrong button on the umpteenth password reset request, the scammers will then call the victim while spoofing Apple support in the caller ID, saying the user's account is under attack and that Apple support needs to "verify" a one-time code.

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Mozilla Drops Onerep After CEO Admits to Running People-Search Networks
The nonprofit organization that supports the Firefox web browser said today it is winding down its new partnership with Onerep, an identity protection service recently bundled with Firefox that offers to remove users from hundreds of people-search sites. The move comes just days after a report by KrebsOnSecurity forced Onerep's CEO to admit that he has founded dozens of people-search networks over the years.

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The Not-so-True People-Search Network from China
It's not unusual for the data brokers behind people-search websites to use pseudonyms in their day-to-day lives (you would, too). Some of these personal data purveyors even try to reinvent their online identities in a bid to hide their conflicts of interest. But it's not every day you run across a US-focused people-search network based in China whose principal owners all appear to be completely fabricated identities.

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14-inch M3 MacBook Pro with 16GB of RAM available at Apple for $300 off MSRP, Certified Refurbished
Apple has the 14" M3 MacBook Pro with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, Certified Refurbished, available for $300 off MSRP. Each MacBook Pro features a new outer case, shipping is free, and an Apple 1-year warranty is standard: - 14" M3 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Gray): $1699 save $300 See our 14" MacBook Pro Price Tracker for the latest prices & deals from Apple's retailers, updated daily. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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14-inch M3 MacBook Pro with 16GB of RAM available at Apple for $300 off MSRP, Certified Refurbished
Apple has the 14" M3 MacBook Pro with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, Certified Refurbished, available for $300 off MSRP. Each MacBook Pro features a new outer case, shipping is free, and an Apple 1-year warranty is standard: - 14" M3 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Gray): $1699 save $300 See our 14" MacBook Pro Price Tracker for the latest prices & deals from Apple's retailers, updated daily. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Apple M2 Mac minis on sale for up to $150 off MSRP
Amazon has Apple's M2-powered Mac minis in stock and on sale for $100-$150 off MSRP, each including free delivery: - Mac mini M2/256GB SSD: $499, save $100 - Mac mini M2/512GB SSD: $699, save $100 - Mac mini M2 Pro CPU: $1149, save $150 Their prices are the lowest available for a new Mac from any retailer. For the latest prices and sales, keep an eye on our Mac mini Price Tracker, updated daily. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Apple M2 Mac minis on sale for up to $150 off MSRP
Amazon has Apple's M2-powered Mac minis in stock and on sale for $100-$150 off MSRP, each including free delivery: - Mac mini M2/256GB SSD: $499, save $100 - Mac mini M2/512GB SSD: $699, save $100 - Mac mini M2 Pro CPU: $1149, save $150 Their prices are the lowest available for a new Mac from any retailer. For the latest prices and sales, keep an eye on our Mac mini Price Tracker, updated daily. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Amazon is offering a $200 discount on 14-inch M3 MacBook Pros
Amazon has 14-inch M3 MacBook Pros in stock and on sale for $200 off MSRP. Shipping is free. Note that Amazon's stock tends to come and go: - 14" M3 MacBook Pro (8GB RAM/512GB SSD): $1399.99, $200 off MSRP - 14" M3 MacBook Pro (8GB RAM/1TB SSD): $1599.99, $200 off MSRP Their prices are the lowest available for new 14" M3 MacBook Pros from any Apple retailer. For the latest prices and sales, see our 14" MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Amazon is offering a $200 discount on 14-inch M3 MacBook Pros
Amazon has 14-inch M3 MacBook Pros in stock and on sale for $200 off MSRP. Shipping is free. Note that Amazon's stock tends to come and go: - 14" M3 MacBook Pro (8GB RAM/512GB SSD): $1399.99, $200 off MSRP - 14" M3 MacBook Pro (8GB RAM/1TB SSD): $1599.99, $200 off MSRP Their prices are the lowest available for new 14" M3 MacBook Pros from any Apple retailer. For the latest prices and sales, see our 14" MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Sunday Sale: 13-inch M3 MacBook Air for $999, $100 off Apple’s MSRP
Several Apple retailers have the new 13" MacBook Air with an M3 CPU in stock and on sale today for only $999 in Midnight. These are the lowest prices currently available for new 13" M3 MacBook Airs: - 13" M3 MacBook Air Midnight (8GB RAM/256GB SSD): $999 ($100 off MSRP) at Amazon and B&H For the latest sales & prices, see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Multiple Apple retailers are offering 13-inch MacBook Airs for only $849 this weekend
Several Apple retailers have 13" MacBook Airs with M2 CPUs in stock and on sale this weekend starting at only $849 in Space Gray, Silver, Starlight, and Midnight colors. These are the lowest prices currently available for new 13" M2 MacBook Airs: - 13" M2 MacBook Air (8GB RAM/256GB SSD): $849 ($150 off MSRP) at Amazon, B&H, Best Buy online, & Apple Refurbished - 13" M2 MacBook Air (8GB RAM/512GB SSD): $1049 ($150 off MSRP) at Amazon and Best Buy online. $1019 at Apple Refurbished ($170 off) For the latest sales & prices, see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Roundup of Verizon’s April Apple iPhone Promotions
Verizon is offering a number of iPhone deals for the month of April. Switch, and open a new of service, and you can qualify for a free iPhone 15 or heavy monthly discounts on other models: - 128GB iPhone 15: Free, no trade-in required - 128GB iPhone 15 Pro Max: $10 per month/36 months, no trade-in required - 128GB iPhone 15 Pro: $5 per month/36 months, no trade-in required - 128GB iPhone 15 Plus: Free, no trade-in required - 128GB iPhone 14 Plus: Free, no trade-in required - 128GB iPhone 14 Plus (4 lines): $120 per month with Unlimited/36 months, no trade-in required Trade in a phone, and Verizon will offer even steeper discounts based on the value of your trade. Verizon's deals are live on their site today and valid through at least April 30, 2024. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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B&H has 16-inch MacBook Pros on sale for $200-$300 off MSRP with free 1-2 day shipping
Apple 16" MacBook Pros with M3 Pro and M3 Max CPUs are in stock and on sale today for $200-$300 off MSRP at B&H Photo. Their prices are among the lowest currently available for these models. B&H offers free 1-2 day shipping to most US addresses: - 16" M3 Pro MacBook Pro (18GB/512GB): $2299, $200 off MSRP - 16" M3 Pro MacBook Pro (36GB/512GB): $2699, $200 off MSRP - 16" M3 Max MacBook Pro (36GB/1TB): $3299, $200 off MSRP - 16" M3 Max MacBook Pro (48GB/1TB): $3699, $300 off MSRP For the latest prices and sales, see our 16" MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily. The post B&H has 16-inch MacBook Pros on sale for $200-$300 off MSRP with free 1-2 day shipping first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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Updated Mac Desktop Price Trackers
Our Apple award-winning Mac desktop price trackers are the best place to look for the lowest prices and latest sales on all the latest computers. Scan our price trackers for the latest information on sales, bundles, & availability on systems from 20+ retailers, including Apple, Amazon, B&H Photo, Adorama, Expercom, Sams Club, and many more. We update the trackers continuously: - iMacs - Mac minis - Mac Studios - Mac Pros - Pro Display XDR - Studio Displays A full list of the available Apple price trackers is in the menu at the top of this page. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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9th-generation iPads on sale for $80 off MSRP, starting at $249, with free store pickup today
Best Buy has Apple's 9th generation 10.2" WiFi iPads on sale for $80 off MSRP on their online store for a limited time. Prices start at only $249. Sale prices for online orders only, in-store prices may vary. Order online, and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available): - 10" 64GB WiFi iPad (Space Gray or Silver): $249.99 $80 off MSRP - 10" 256GB WiFi iPad (Space Gray or Silver): $399.99 $80 off MSRP - 10" 64GB WiFi + Cellular iPad (Space Gray or Silver): $379.99 $80 off MSRP - 10" 256GB WiFi + Cellular iPad (Space Gray or Silver): $529.99 $80 off MSRP Best Buy's prices are the lowest prices available for these base-model iPads. For the latest prices & deals, keep an eye on our iPad Price Tracker, updated daily. The post first appeared on MacPrices.net.

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