iOS 26 overhauled one of the iPhone’s original and most iconic apps: the Phone app. While I’ve never enjoyed phone calls, two excellent new features make them a lot better in iOS 26—and have made me a big fan of the app.

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Apple has officially discontinued its most affordable Mac mini configuration. The $599 base model with M4 chip, 16GB of unified memory, and 256GB of storage is no longer listed on Apple’s website, marking the end of an era for the company’s entry-level desktop Mac.

Just last week, the base Mac mini went completely out of stock at the Apple Store, with shipping estimates shifting to “currently available” after repeated delays. Now, it’s been removed entirely from the configurator, confirming its discontinuation.

New Starting Price: $799 for 512GB Storage

The new entry-level Mac mini starts at $799, featuring the M4 chip, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage. This isn’t a direct price hike for equivalent specs — the 512GB model previously carried the same $799 price tag — but it does raise the floor for anyone looking to buy a new Mac mini today.

Current availability for this new base model shows backorders stretching into the second or third week of June, with many higher-end configurations (especially those with 32GB or more RAM) listed as “currently unavailable” or quoting 10-12 week delivery times.

Why Is This Happening?

During Apple’s recent Q2 earnings call, CEO Tim Cook attributed the shortages to “higher-than-expected demand” for the Mac mini and Mac Studio. He highlighted strong interest in these machines as platforms for AI and agentic tools, noting that customer adoption has outpaced Apple’s forecasts.

Cook indicated it could take “several months” to balance supply and demand, suggesting buyers shouldn’t count on quick relief. The removal of the 256GB model entirely signals it’s unlikely to return.

Similar shortages are affecting other Apple products, though MacBook Neo configurations are seeing relatively shorter wait times of 2-4 weeks on Apple’s site (and next-day availability in some cases on Amazon).

What This Means for Buyers

• Budget shoppers: The cheapest new Mac mini is now $200 more expensive than before, though it comes with double the storage.

• AI enthusiasts and developers: High demand for local AI workloads is clearly driving these shortages, making the Mac mini a popular compact powerhouse.

• Patience required: If you’re not in a rush, you might score better availability later this summer. Otherwise, check third-party retailers (where stock is also tight) or consider refurbished options.

This move reflects Apple’s ongoing challenges with component supply — particularly advanced chips — while underscoring the growing popularity of its desktop lineup in the AI era.
‎
MacDailyNews Take: The Mac mini remains one of the best values in Apple’s ecosystem for power users who want maximum performance in a tiny package. With the base model now bumped up in specs and price, it continues to punch well above its weight.

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The post Apple discontinues $599 base Mac mini – entry-level model now starts at $799 with 512GB storage amid surging demand appeared first on MacDailyNews.

If you’re looking for the cheapest desktop Mac, you’ll have to spend a little more than last week. On Apple.com, you can no longer buy the M4 Mac mini with 256GB of storage. No, it’s not simply out of stock, nor does it have extended delivery times (as has been the case for a while). It’s just gone. It’s not an option on the Apple store any longer.

This is what the storage section of the configuration page looks like now:

Apple

Though Apple hasn’t increased the cost of the 512GB model (or other options and variations), this still effectively makes the Mac mini more expensive. You used to be able to get one for $599, and now you have to pay $799, even though you get double the storage. The MacBook Neo and iMac are now the only Macs that still have a 256GB option.

In Apple’s earnings call yesterday, Tim Cook said he was looking at “a range of options” to deal with the massive increase in memory costs. This is one tactic—Apple charges an incredible price premium for RAM and storage upgrades, asking customers to pay several times more than the going rate for these components. By effectively forcing consumers to buy an “upgraded” model, it can absorb the memory chip price increase while maintaining a high profit margin.

It’s not clear if that’s exactly what is happening here, or if Apple will use the same tactic on other products to raise the average selling price and profit margin of some products while not technically raising prices. Apple made this change to the Mac mini configurations without comment or announcement, so we can only guess as to the reason for the change.

Last week, the base model $599 Mac mini with 256GB went completely out of stock at the Apple Store. After extended delays, Apple updated the shipping estimates to simply say “currently available.”

Now, Apple has taken the next step: the base model $599 Mac mini is no longer listed on its website at all. It has effectively been discontinued.

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May is here, which means we’re only one month away from Apple’s big WWDC reveals. But the company still has plenty happening in May, here’s everything we know is coming this month.

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When Aqara first announced the Camera Hub G350, the headline that caught my eye was the claim that it is the first Matter-certified camera on the market. Matter, while not perfect, is a huge part of what I want out of the smart home industry: freedom from vendor lock-in. Let’s take a look at the new Aqara Camera Hub G350 and see how it works with Matter and HomeKit.

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In Thursday’s Q2 2026 earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook directly addressed the growing frustration among pro users and AI enthusiasts: high-demand configurations of the Mac mini and Mac Studio are severely constrained, and relief isn’t coming anytime soon.

“We think, looking forward, that the Mac mini and the Mac Studio may take several months to reach supply-demand balance,” Cook stated. He attributed the shortfall to stronger-than-expected customer adoption of “agentic AI” tools and workflows — use cases like OpenClaw and local AI agents that thrive on the compact desktops’ powerful unified memory and performance.

What’s Actually Happening with Stock and Shipping?

Many configurations of both machines are now listed as “Currently Unavailable” on Apple’s online store, meaning you can’t even place an order. Others show shipping estimates stretching into multiple months:

• Higher-RAM options (32GB/64GB on Mac mini, 128GB/256GB on Mac Studio) hit hardest.

• Even the base M4 Mac mini has been sold out at times.

• Apple previously removed the top-end 512GB RAM configuration for the Mac Studio entirely.

The constraints stem primarily from limited availability of advanced semiconductor nodes for Apple Silicon chips, compounded by the global memory crunch driven by AI server demand. Cook noted Apple underestimated how quickly developers and power users would embrace these desktops for always-on AI tasks.

This isn’t isolated to desktops. Cook also flagged ongoing constraints for the hot-selling MacBook Neo, which has seen “off the charts” demand and helped Apple bring in record numbers of new Mac users.

Why Now? The AI Factor

The Mac mini, long a budget-friendly favorite, has become a go-to for running local AI agents thanks to its compact size, efficiency, and generous unified memory options. That unexpected popularity surge caught even Apple off guard — and production lead times mean the company can’t ramp up fast enough.

Apple is also bracing for significantly higher memory component costs in the coming quarters and is exploring mitigation strategies.

What Should You Do?

• If you need a Mac mini or Mac Studio now: Check authorized resellers, but expect premiums on popular configs. Base models may still be easier to find.

• Planning ahead? Consider lower-spec options that are more readily available, or wait it out if your workflow can hold.

• Buyers’ guides from MacRumors currently flag both products with “Caution” due to these delays.

MacDailyNews Take: Apple’s pro desktop lineup remains incredibly capable — the current M4/M4 Pro Mac mini and M3 Ultra Mac Studio are beasts for creative work, development, and now AI. The irony? They’re victims of their own success in the exploding agentic AI space.

‎
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The post Apple confirms Mac mini and Mac Studio supply shortages will drag on for several months as demand surges beyond expectations appeared first on MacDailyNews.

I haven’t mowed my lawn in over a month, but it’s manicured like a golf course. That’s because I switched from a push mower to a robot lawn mower that I manage from my iPhone. It’s the Anthbot M9, and it’s by far my favorite new piece of technology I’ve tried this year.

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iOS 26.5 is coming soon, complete with new iPhone features. Here’s when iOS 26.5 is expected to launch to all users.

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The Apple Hearing Study, run in collaboration with the University of Michigan, is out with new findings this week that highlight the importance of the Apple’s hearing health features for AirPods.

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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 Bitwarden: Make your life easier with Bitwarden, featuring a secure, open source password manager with end-to-end encryption and seamless autofill across all your devices.

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Apple is rumored to have a special 20th anniversary iPhone coming next year, but according to a new report, this won’t be a standalone new model, but rather an all-new design for the iPhone Pro line.

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Apple held its fiscal Q2 2026 earnings conference call on April 30th, delivering strong financial results alongside notable commentary on iPhone momentum, Services growth, Apple Intelligence, and the upcoming CEO transition. Here are the most important things said on the call, in the executives’ own words:

Tim Cook on the record quarter and iPhone strength

“Today, Apple Inc. is proud to report $111.2 billion in revenue, up 17% from a year ago and a March record, which was above the high end of our guidance range despite constraints. Customer enthusiasm for iPhone has been extraordinary, with revenue growing 22% year over year to achieve a March record.”

“The iPhone 17 family is now the most popular lineup in our history when looking at the launch through March. And according to IDC, we gained market share during the quarter.”

Cook on Greater China rebound and Services

“We are thrilled with the performance in Greater China. The first half of the year grew 33%. In March, revenue was up 28% — a quarterly revenue record for us. The performance is really driven by iPhone, which was also a March record.”

“Services reached an all-time revenue record with $31 billion. We saw double-digit growth in both developed and emerging markets and set new all-time revenue records across most of the Services categories.”

Cook on the future and Apple Intelligence

“What truly sets Apple Inc. apart is how Apple Intelligence is woven into the core of our platforms, powered by Apple silicon and designed from the ground up to deliver intelligence that is fast, personal, and private.”

“As we celebrated 50 years of Apple Inc., we are even more excited and more optimistic about the next 50 years and beyond.”

Cook on the CEO transition to John Ternus

“This moment for the transition is the right one for a number of reasons. First, our business has been performing extremely well… Second, our roadmap is incredible. And most importantly, we have the right leader ready to step into the role. As I have said, there is no one on this planet I trust more to lead Apple Inc. into the future than John Ternus. John is a brilliant engineer, a deep thinker, a person of remarkable character, and a born leader.”

John Ternus on stepping into the CEO role

“In my view, Tim is one of the greatest business leaders of all time. Stepping into the role of CEO is incredible, and it means a great deal to me to have Tim’s trust and confidence.”

“As you know, one of the hallmarks of Tim’s tenure has been a deep thoughtfulness, deliberateness, and discipline when it comes to the financial decision-making of the company. And I want you to know that is something Kevan and I intend to continue when I transition into the role.”

Kevan Parekh on guidance, costs, and investments

“For the June quarter — and what is embedded in the guidance… we expect significantly higher memory costs… beyond the June quarter, we believe memory costs will drive an increasing impact on our business.”

“We are clearly investing more — you can see that in the OpEx numbers… R&D is accelerating much higher than the company overall. We are investing in products and services, and we see opportunities in both.”

Cook also announced another $100 billion share repurchase authorization and a 4% dividend increase, underscoring Apple’s strong capital return program.
‎
MacDailyNews Take: The call reflected confidence in both the current momentum and the smooth leadership handoff, with Tim Cook set to move into the Executive Chairman role on September 1st while John Ternus assumes the CEO position.

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The post ‘There is no one on this planet I trust more to lead Apple’ – key quotes from Tim Cook, John Ternus, and Kevan Parekh on Apple’s Q226 earnings call appeared first on MacDailyNews.

Rising memory costs have led to price increases on many Android smartphones, but in a new report, analyst Jeff Pu predicts that Apple will use “aggressive pricing” for this fall’s iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.

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Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is headlined by the ongoing AirPods Pro 3 price drop, but it’s really all about the MacBooks today. We have the most affordable M5 Pro MacBook Pro back to the all-time low at $250 off, Apple’s least expensive M5 Max MacBook Pro at $300 off and some of the best M5 MacBook Air deals to date at up to $219 off. Those offers join the lowest price ever on 46mm Apple Watch Series 11 Cell models in all four colors at $130 off and new all-time lows on the latest 240W Beats USB-C Braided Cables at $17. Head below for a closer look.

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Apple MacBook Pro

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If you were waiting for the right price to get your hands on a new MacBook Pro, the deal you want has arrived. Amazon has slashed the price of the M5 Pro MacBook Pro to $1,986.50, a savings of $213, and the best price we’ve ever seen.

This laptop was built for professionals, creatives, and tech enthusiasts who want it all because the laptop can literally do it all. The M5 Pro chip is absolutely insanely powerful, while the 24GB of unified memory will help deliver the speed you absolutely need to complete complex tasks in a blink. This particular model also comes with a 1TB SSD, so you have plenty of storage space for all those files you need to keep safe.

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display delivers crisp images with vivid colors and deep contrast for the best results. And did I mention the laptop comes with all-day battery life? Because it will absolutely keep you working for long hours without worrying about reaching for a plug.

So go upgrade your professional setup with this reliable and powerful MacBook Pro with an M5 Pro chip while it’s still on sale for its best price yet.

Another huge quarter for Apple came with across-the-board strong performance, but the iPhone 17 family was a big part of the company’s earnings. Here’s why Tim Cook says the iPhone 17 is performing so well, based on customer feedback.

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The Apple Passwords app makes it easier than ever to save login details for your apps, switch to passkeys, create shared groups and more.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

May has arrived, so let’s check in with MacBook Neo inventory for the new month. In April, Apple sold through its online inventory for the month after just 15 days. For May, Apple is starting out the month with MacBook Neo shipping estimates ranging from May 18 to May 26.

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During Apple’s latest earnings call, outgoing CEO Tim Cook shared the key advice he gave to John Ternus, who will step into the role of Apple CEO on September 1st. The message is simple yet powerful: stay laser-focused on the company’s users and never lose sight of what truly matters.

When an ailing Steve Jobs handed the reins to Cook, he offered this liberating guidance: “Don’t ask what I would do. Just do the right thing.” Cook has often credited that advice with removing a massive burden and guiding him through 15 years at the helm.

Now, it’s Cook’s turn to impart wisdom. When asked what he told his successor, Cook emphasized strategic focus and unwavering principles.

Cook’s Core Advice to Ternus

“What I told him is that one of the most important decisions he’ll make is where to spend his time, and I would spend it where the greatest benefit to the company and the users are,” Cook explained.

In his opening remarks on Thursday’s conference call, Cook said, “As always, we remain in relentless pursuit of even more powerful innovations guided by our North Star, our users. As we celebrated 50 years of Apple, we are even more excited and more optimistic about the next 50 years and beyond.”

He went on to stress the importance of Apple’s guiding “North Star” — its customers: “Never forget the North Star for the company… We’re about making the best products in the world that really enrich other people’s lives. And if you keep focusing on that and make your decisions around that, it will produce a great business, and we’ll be able to build more products and do it all over again.”

This customer-centric philosophy has defined Cook’s tenure and delivered extraordinary results, including Apple’s most recent record-breaking quarterly earnings. It’s advice that resonates deeply with anyone who relies on Macs, iPhones, iPads, and the broader Apple ecosystem — reassurance that the company’s future leadership will prioritize products that genuinely improve lives over short-term gains.

Ternus, who joined the call, expressed excitement about Apple’s pipeline, describing upcoming products as “incredible” while maintaining the company’s signature discretion on details. His commitment to fiscal discipline alongside innovation suggests a smooth continuation of Apple’s winning formula.

MacDailyNews Take: As Apple enters this new chapter, Cook’s advice, taken straight from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, serves as a reminder that Apple’s enduring success stems not from chasing trends, but from obsessing over the people who use its devices every day.

Jobs’ philosophy: The customer isn’t just important, they are the starting point.

“You’ve got to start with the customer experience and work backwards to the technology. You can’t start with the technology and try to figure out where you’re going to sell it.” – Steve Jobs

“Our DNA is as a consumer company — for that individual customer who’s voting thumbs up or thumbs down. That’s who we think about. And we think that our job is to take responsibility for the complete user experience. And if it’s not up to par, it’s our fault, plain and simply.” – Steve Jobs

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The post Tim Cook’s advice to incoming CEO John Ternus: Keep users as Apple’s North Star appeared first on MacDailyNews.

Apple reported a hugely successful quarter yesterday, and while giving guidance for the next quarter, the company strongly implied that one specific new product is unlikely to launch very soon.

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Epic Games has launched its Star Wars-themed Fortnite update for May, and the release comes with the arrival of Fortnite on the iPhone in Japan.

Fortnite returned to the iPhone and iPad in the US this month a year ago. Next, Epic Games is targeting iOS availability in another region soon. Meanwhile, Fortnite’s return to the Mac doesn’t sound too promising.

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Thinking of buying a Mac or MacBook for school, college or university? Choosing the right one in 2026 isn’t as simple as picking the cheapest model. Apple’s lineup now includes everything from the low-cost MacBook Neo to lightweight MacBooks, powerful Pro machines, and even desktop Macs—all with different strengths depending on your course, workload, and budget.

Whether you’re writing essays, coding, editing video, or just need a reliable laptop for lectures, the best choice depends on how you plan to use it. In this guide, we break down the best Mac for every type of student – from budget buyers to creative pros – compare the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, and explore whether a desktop Mac might actually be a smarter option for some.

We’ll also help you choose based on your subject and budget, and show you how to save money. Students can take advantage of Apple’s Education Store discounts, but it’s worth checking resellers too, where you may find even better deals.

What is the best Mac for students?

We’ve picked out the best Macs for students right now, including the MacBook Neo, the latest MacBook Air and Pro models, and even desktop alternatives like the Mac mini. Here are our top recommendations based on price, performance and what most students actually need.

1. MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 2025) – Best MacBook for Most Students

Pros

Lightweight and portable

Silent fanless design

Strong all-around performance

Cons

Higher starting price

No active cooling

Less Pro-level features

Price When Reviewed:

From $1,099

Best Prices Today:

Retailer

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$949.99

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$999

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$999

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$1022

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$1099

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$1099

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Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide

View more prices

Product

Price

Price comparison from Backmarket

The MacBook Air is the ideal laptop for most students, offering an excellent balance of portability, battery life, and performance. With the introduction of the M5 chip in early 2026, it further strengthens its position as a dependable everyday “workhorse” for academic and light creative use.

You might assume the MacBook Air is significantly less powerful than the MacBook Pro, but that’s not entirely the case. The entry-level MacBook Pro uses the same M5 chip, meaning day-to-day performance is very similar. The Pro does offer additional advantages, such as improved cooling, more ports and a higher-end display, which we’ll explore in more detail below.

Why the MacBook Air is a good choice for students

The MacBook Air’s biggest advantage is its lightweight, fanless design. It’s easy to carry between classes and operates completely silently – ideal for lectures, libraries, and study spaces. Combined with all-day battery life, it’s well-suited to students who spend long hours away from power outlets.

MacBook Air offers the following benefits:

Portability: The 13-inch model weighs under 3 pounds (1.24 kg), making it easy to carry all day.

Silent operation: The fanless design means no noise, even under moderate workloads.

Battery life: Up to 18 hours battery life means students can often leave the charger at home and the MacBook Air can last for the while working day.

Which students is the MacBook Air best for?

The MacBook Air is the mainstream choice for students who want a reliable, versatile laptop without the cost or weight of a Pro model. It’s ideal for:

General students: Writing, research, lectures, and productivity apps (Office, Google Workspace).

Mobile users: Those constantly moving between classes, libraries, and cafés.

Creative students: The 15-inch model is a good fit for light design, editing, or multitasking where Pro-level power isn’t required.

Budget-conscious buyers: M5 starts at $1,099 ($999 education), while older models (M4) often offer excellent value on sale.

MacBook Air performance for student workloads

While the MacBook Pro is designed for sustained, high-end professional workloads, the MacBook Air delivers more than enough performance for the majority of students, including:

Everyday tasks: Smooth handling of web browsing (even with many tabs), document work, and streaming.

Creative work: The M5 chip adds improved graphics performance, including enhanced shader cores and ray tracing, making it capable of light video editing and 3D work.

MacBook Air specs

Processor (CPU/GPU): The M5 chip features a 10-core CPU and up to a 10-core GPU.

Memory (RAM): As of late 2024, Apple began shipping all models with a minimum of 16GB of RAM. For students looking at older or refurbished models, experts recommend a minimum of 16GB to ensure longevity and smooth multitasking.

13-inch or 15-inch Display: Liquid Retina display with 500 nits brightness and strong color accuracy – great for both study and creative use.

Storage (SSD): The base storage for the M5 model has doubled to 512GB. This is particularly beneficial for students who need to store large project files, though those on a budget can still find older 256GB models sufficient if paired with cloud storage.

MacBook Air tradeoffs

Choosing the Air over the MacBook Pro or the budget-friendly MacBook Neo involves several specific tradeoffs regarding sustained power, display technology, and port selection.

Performance and Thermal Management: The most significant technical tradeoff is the Air’s fanless design. While this makes the laptop completely silent, it limits performance during long, intensive tasks.

Refresh Rate: The Air is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, missing the 120Hz ProMotion technology found on the Pro.

Brightness and HDR: It lacks the HDR capabilities and extreme brightness levels of the Liquid Retina XDR displays.

Audio: The 13-inch Air uses a four-speaker system, whereas the 15-inch Air and MacBook Pro models offer superior six-speaker systems with force-canceling woofers.

Connectivity and Ports: MacBook Air is designed for portability, which results in a more limited selection of physical ports compared to the Pro.

How much can students save on the 13-inch MacBook Air, M5?

MSRP: $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,799 / CA$1,499

Student: $999 / £999 / AU$1,639 / CA$1,359

Students save: $100 / £100 / AU$160 / CA$140

You’ll also see the best prices right now in the block above, which may be even better than Apple’s education pricing.

Read our full

Apple 13-inch MacBook Air (M5, 2026) review

2. Apple MacBook Neo – Best Budget MacBook

Pros

Low starting price

Premium metal build

Solid everyday performance

Cons

Limited to 8GB RAM

Fewer ports, no Thunderbolt

Weaker display quality

Price When Reviewed:

$599

Best Prices Today:

Retailer

Price

$589.99

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$599

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$599

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$599

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$599.99

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$999

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Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide

View more prices

Product

Price

Price comparison from Backmarket

The MacBook Neo is Apple’s most affordable laptop, launched in March 2026 to target the education market. While the MacBook Air remains the mainstream choice for students, the Neo is designed to compete directly with Chromebooks and low-cost Windows laptops – bringing the macOS experience to a much lower price point.

Why the MacBook Neo is a good choice for students

The MacBook Neo’s biggest advantage is value. It delivers a premium-feeling Mac experience at a significantly lower cost, making it especially appealing to students on a tight budget.

MacBook Neo offers the following benefits:

Affordability: Starts at $599 ($499 education), making it the most accessible Mac ever.

Performance: Powered by the A18 Pro chip, offering fast single-core performance for everyday tasks.

Build quality: All-aluminum design that feels closer to a MacBook Air than typical budget laptops.

Battery life: Up to 16 hours – enough for a full school day.

Display & camera: 13-inch Liquid Retina display (500 nits) and 1080p webcam for calls and classes.

Apple ecosystem: Seamless integration with iPhone features like iPhone Mirroring, Universal Clipboard, and iCloud.

Design: Available in multiple colors, including silver, indigo, blush, and citrus.

Which students is the MacBook Neo best for?

The MacBook Neo is ideal for students who want a reliable, well-built laptop for everyday use without paying for higher-end performance. It’s ideal for:

K–12 and first-time users: A great entry-level device for schoolwork and general productivity.

Budget-conscious college students: A strong option for those who want macOS at a lower price.

Casual creative learners: Suitable for beginners exploring tools like Adobe apps without heavy workloads.

Apple ecosystem users: Best for students who already use an iPhone or other Apple devices.

The MacBook Neo is best suited for students with simple, everyday computing needs. For more demanding workflows – such as advanced video editing, 3D work, or software development – the MacBook Air (M5) or MacBook Pro models remain better choices.

MacBook Neo performance for student workloads

The MacBook Neo is optimized for typical student use and handles everyday tasks with ease, including:

Everyday tasks: Smooth performance for web browsing, email, documents, and streaming.

Light creative work: Capable of basic photo and video editing (including 1080p and light 4K), though not designed for sustained professional workloads.

MacBook Neo specs

As a low-priced device so the specs are basic, but should be enough to handle the “day-to-day stuff” essential for schoolwork, such as writing papers, browsing, and streaming.

Processor: An A18 Pro or A19 Pro chip (depending on the specific model year), which provides excellent single-core performance for a smooth operating system feel.

Memory: 8GB of unified memory, which is the maximum available for this model.

Storage: Options for a 256GB or 512GB SSD.

Battery Life: Up to 16 hours of video playback, which comfortably covers a full school day.

MacBook Neo tradeoffs

To reach its lower price, the MacBook Neo makes several compromises compared to the Air and Pro models, so there are some trade-offs to consider:

Memory: 8GB RAM only, with no upgrade option.

Ports: Two USB-C ports, no Thunderbolt; one limited to USB 2.0 speeds.

Display limitations: Lacks P3 wide color and True Tone, making it less ideal for color-critical work.

Features: No MagSafe, no keyboard backlight, and no Touch ID on the base model.

External display support: Limited to a single external monitor.

How much can students save on the MacBook Neo?

MSRP: $599 / £599 / AU$899 / CA$799

Student: $499 / £499 / AU$749 / CA$679

Students save: $100 / £100 / AU$50 / CA$20

You’ll also see the best prices right now in the block above, which may be even better than Apple’s education pricing.

Read our full

Apple MacBook Neo review

3. Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 2025) – Best MacBook for Student Power Users

Pros

Exceptional sustained performance

Best-in-class display quality

Wide port selection

Cons

Expensive for most students

Heavier and less portable

Overkill for basic tasks

Price When Reviewed:

$1,599 (Discontinued)

Best Prices Today:

Retailer

Price

$999

View Deal

$1349

View Deal

$1599

View Deal

Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide

Product

Price

Price comparison from Backmarket

While the MacBook Air is the best choice for most students, the MacBook Pro is designed for those who need sustained performance, a superior display, and more advanced features. It’s the top option for students working with demanding software or intensive workloads.

Why the MacBook Pro is a good choice for students

The MacBook Pro’s biggest advantage is sustained performance. With active cooling and more powerful chip options, it’s built to handle heavy workloads without slowing down.

Key benefits of the MacBook Pro include:

Performance: M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips deliver exceptional power for intensive tasks.

Display: Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion (up to 120Hz) and up to 1,600 nits HDR brightness.

Battery life: Up to 24 hours—enough for a full day and late-night work sessions.

Ports: Includes HDMI, SDXC card slot, and MagSafe – no adapters needed for many tasks.

Cooling system: Active cooling allows sustained performance under heavy loads.

Camera & audio: 12MP Center Stage camera and high-quality six-speaker system for calls and media.

Which students is the MacBook Pro best for?

The MacBook Pro is ideal for students whose coursework or projects require high performance and professional-grade tools.

Creative majors: 4K video editing, advanced photo work, and 3D animation.

Computer science & engineering: Compiling large codebases, simulations, and development workflows.

Data science & research: Handling large datasets and compute-heavy tasks.

Advanced users: Students running intensive apps, multitasking heavily, or working on complex projects.

For most students needing Pro-level performance, the 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro offers the best balance of power and portability. Those in more demanding fields may benefit from M5 Pro or M5 Max configurations.

Performance for student workloads

The MacBook Pro is built to maintain high performance over long periods, making it ideal for demanding academic tasks.

Sustained performance: Active cooling prevents slowdowns during long rendering or compile sessions.

Advanced display: ProMotion (up to 120Hz) and higher brightness improve visual work and outdoor use.

Battery life: Up to 24 hours, covering full days plus extended study sessions.

Connectivity: Built-in HDMI and SDXC make it easy to connect displays or transfer files without dongles.

MacBook Pro specs

The current lineup is powered by the M5 family of chips, offering a wide range of performance options:

Processor options: M5: 10-core CPU/GPU for general and light creative tasks; M5 Pro: Up to 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU for advanced workloads; M5 Max: Up to 40-core GPU for extreme tasks like 3D, AI, and high-end production.

Memory: Starts at 16GB unified memory. Configurable up to 128GB for professional workflows.

Storage: Starts at 1TB (M5/M5 Pro). Up to 2TB and beyond on higher-end models.

Display: 14-inch or 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR. ProMotion up to 120Hz and up to 1,600 nits HDR brightness

Ports & connectivity: HDMI, SDXC card slot, MagSafe 3. Thunderbolt 4 (M5) or Thunderbolt 5 (M5 Pro/Max)

Battery life: Up to 24 hours, among the longest in any laptop.

MacBook Pro trade-offs

While powerful, the MacBook Pro comes with a few downsides compared to the Air:

Price: Significantly more expensive than Air and Neo models.

Weight: Heavier and less portable, especially the 16-inch model.

Overkill for most students: Many users won’t need this level of performance.

Less silent: Active cooling means occasional fan noise under load.

How much can students save on the 14-inch MacBook Pro, M5?

MSRP: $1,699 / £1,699 / AU$2,699 / CA$2,399

Student: $1,599 / £1,599 / AU$2,539 / CA$2,259

Students save: $100 / £100 / AU$160 / CA$140

4. Apple Mac mini (M4, 2024) – Best Desktop Option for Students

Pros

Excellent performance for price

Most affordable Mac option

Supports multiple displays

Cons

Not portable at all

Requires separate accessories

Upgrade costs add up

Price When Reviewed:

$599 | $799 | $999

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The Mac mini is a strong option for students who prioritize performance and value over portability. While laptops are the default for university life, the Mac mini offers a powerful, lower-cost entry into the macOS ecosystem for those who primarily work at a desk.

Students who need mobility for lectures can pair a Mac mini with an iPad or another device for note-taking, using the desktop as their main workstation at home.

Why the Mac mini is a good choice for students

The Mac mini’s biggest advantage is performance per pound (or dollar). It delivers desktop-class power at a much lower price than a MacBook, making it one of the best-value Macs available.

Key benefits of the Mac mini include:

Affordability: Starts at $599 ($499 education), the cheapest Mac available.

Performance: M4 and M4 Pro chips deliver strong desktop-level performance.

Compact design: Small 5×5-inch footprint fits easily on any desk.

Flexible setup: Works with a wide range of monitors and accessories.

High-end option: M4 Pro model offers powerful performance at a lower cost than MacBook Pro.

Multi-display support: Supports up to three external displays for multitasking.

Which students is the Mac mini best for?

The Mac mini is ideal for students who primarily work from a fixed location and want maximum performance for their budget.

Budget-conscious students: The most affordable way to get a modern Mac.

Students with existing peripherals: Best if you already own a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Creative and technical majors: M4 Pro model handles demanding apps at a lower cost than laptops.

Hybrid users: Students who use an iPad or laptop for notes but want a powerful desktop at home.

Performance for student workloads

The Mac mini is highly capable for both everyday and demanding academic tasks.

Everyday tasks: Fast performance for browsing, documents, and general schoolwork.

Advanced workloads: M4 Pro handles video editing, coding, and heavier multitasking.

Multitasking: Supports multiple displays, making it ideal for complex workflows.

Mac mini specs

The latest Mac mini models offer strong desktop performance in a compact form:

Processor options: M4: Excellent for general student use; M4 Pro: Higher performance for demanding creative and technical work.Memory: Starts at 16GB unified memory; Up to 64GB on M4 Pro models.Storage: Starts at 256GB SSD, 512GB or higher recommended for most students.Ports & connectivity: Thunderbolt 4 (M4) or Thunderbolt 5 (M4 Pro), HDMI and front-facing USB-C portsSupports multiple external displays: Some models can support up to three displays at once.

Mac mini trade-offs

While powerful and affordable, the Mac mini has some important limitations:

No built-in peripherals: Requires separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

No portability: Not suitable for lectures or working on the go.

Extra costs: Accessories and upgrades can increase total price.

Limited upgradeability: RAM and storage cannot be upgraded later.

No USB-A ports: Newer Mac mini models lack USB-A so you may require adapters for older accessories.

How much can students save on the Mac mini, M4?

MSRP: $599 / £599 / AU$999 / CA$799

Student: $499 / £499 / AU$829 / CA$669

Students save: $100 / £110 / AU$170 / CA$130

Best MacBook by Student Type

You’ll be carrying your laptop around a lot, so weight is a factor to consider.

For most students, the 13-inch MacBook Air (M5) is the best overall choice, offering the ideal balance of portability, battery life, and performance.

If your budget is tight the MacBook Neo delivers the Mac experience at a significantly lower cost.

If you’re a creative student who wants more screen space – but doesn’t need full Pro power – the 15-inch MacBook Air is a strong middle ground.

The MacBook Pro is best reserved for students with demanding workloads like 4K video editing, software development, or 3D modelling.

Best for school, K-12 education – MacBook Neo

The MacBook Neo is Apple’s most affordable laptop. Despite using an A18 Pro chip, it delivers a full macOS experience for everyday schoolwork.

Why it’s a good fit for education:

Ideal for browsing, writing, and light media tasks.

Durable aluminum design in student-friendly colors.

Long battery life for full school days.

Best for University, higher education students – MacBook Air

The 13-inch MacBook Air (M5) is the best choice for most university students. It offers a strong mix of performance, portability, and battery life, making it suitable for a wide range of majors.

Why it’s a good fit for higher education:

Lightweight (under 3 lbs) and easy to carry.

Silent, fanless design for lectures and libraries.

All-day battery life.

Best for coding and engineering students – MacBook Pro

For students in computer science or engineering, performance and memory are key. Heavier workloads will benefit from the MacBook Pro.

Why it’s a good fit:

Fast performance for coding and compiling.

Higher RAM configurations available.

Pro models handle sustained workloads better.

Best for design and media Students – MacBook Pro

For students working in video editing, design, or 3D workflows, the MacBook Pro is the best choice due to its superior display and sustained performance.

Why it’s a good fit:

Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion (120Hz).

Better color accuracy and brightness.

Handles intensive creative workloads.

MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro vs MacBook Neo for students

How do the different types of MacBook compare?

Foundry

Choosing between the MacBook Air, MacBook Neo and MacBook Pro for students in 2026 depends primarily on your major and budget.

For the vast majority of students, the MacBook Air is the best choice due to its balance of portability and performance, while the MacBook Pro is reserved for those with demanding technical workloads.

If your budget is tight, the MacBook Neo is an affordable entry to macOS with performance that is good enough for common tasks. Alternatively you could purchase a previous generation MacBook Air, either refurbished, or if old stock is being sold off at a discount. See our MacBook Air deals roundup.

FeatureMacBook Air (M5)MacBook Pro (M5)MacBook NeoBest ForEveryday work, essays, streaming.Creative majors, video editing, 3D work, coding.Basic tasks & tight budgetsPortabilityUltra-light (under 3 lbs for 13-inch).Heavier; built for sustained power. 3.4 lbs (Heavier)Ultra-portableDisplay13 or 15-inch Liquid Retina. 2.7 lbs (Very light)14 or 16-inch HDR ProMotion.14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDRCoolingSilent, fanless design.Active fans for heavy workloads.Silent, fanless design.Battery lifeUp to 18 hoursUp to 24 hoursUp to 16 hoursStarting Price$1,099 ($999 Education)$1,599 ($1,499 Education)$599 ($499 Education)How the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and MacBook Neo compare for students.

MacBook vs iPad for students

MacBook compared to an iPad with a keyboard attached.

Foundry

Choosing between a MacBook and an iPad depends on your course requirements and how you prefer to work. While the iPad has evolved into a versatile device that can replace a laptop for some students, the MacBook remains the stronger option for multitasking and full desktop software.

For students with more demanding workflows, the MacBook is generally the better long-term choice. It offers a full desktop operating system with broader software support and more advanced multitasking.

The iPad is a strong option for students who prioritize portability, note-taking, and creative input methods. It works especially well as a companion device or for specific types of learning.

Choose a MacBook if you need full desktop software, better multitasking, and long-term versatility.

Choose an iPad if you value portability, handwritten notes, and a more flexible, touch-first experience.

To compliment an iPad consider an one of the best iPad keyboard case and best iPad styluses we have reviewed. We also explain Which Apple Pencil works with each iPad.

FeatureMacBookiPadBest ForHeavy writing, complex multitasking.Note-taking, drawing, media consumption.InputKeyboard and Trackpad.Touch, Apple Pencil, Detachable Keyboard.SoftwareFull desktop OS (macOS).Mobile-first OS (iPadOS).Battery lifeTypically 15-18+ hours.Approximately 10 hours.How the MacBook and iPad compare for students.

How to save money at Apple’s Education Store

Apple offers several ways for students and educators to save money on Macs and iPads, including year-round discounts and seasonal promotions. Taking advantage of these offers can significantly reduce the overall cost of a new device. We have a dedicated guide to How to shop at the Apple Education Store.

Year-Round Education Discounts at Apple’s Education Store

Apple provides consistent discounts for iPads and Macs through its Education Store, available to full-time higher education students and their parents, and educators.

Typical savings include:

Up to $200/£200 off MacBooks and iMacs

Up to $100/£100 off iPads

Click on the links below to go straight to Apple’s Education Store where you are.

Apple’s U.S. Education Store

Apple’s U.K. Education Store

Apple’s Canada Education Store

Apple’s Australian Education Store

In many regions, such as the UK, you must verify your student status through UNiDAYS before accessing the store. In the U.S., verification may be required during or after the purchase.

Seasonal “Back to School” Offers

The biggest savings typically come during Apple’s annual higher education promotion, often called the “Back to School” event as it falls in the summertime when students are preparing for college and university. Read more about the offer for Apple’s back to school shopping event this year.

This promotion adds free extras on top of education pricing, significantly increasing overall value.

What you can get:

Free AirPods or Apple Pencil

Sometimes gift cards (up to ~$150) instead of accessories

Occasional discounts on add-ons like keyboards or mice

When it runs:

U.S., Canada, UK, Europe: June/July – September/October

Australia, NZ: January – March

If you’re a student, you can also get Apple Music for half price with free Apple TV+ included.

How much can students save on a Mac?

You can save hundreds on a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio and even a Mac Pro at Apple’s Education Store all year round.

Here’s how the Mac and MacBook MSRP compares to the student price:

ProductU.S.U.K.AustraliaCanadaMacBook Neo, A18 Pro, MSRP$599£599$899$799MacBook Neo, A18 Pro, Student discount$499£499$749$67913.6-inch MacBook Air, M5, MSRP$1,099£1,099$1,799$1,49913.6-inch MacBook Air, M5, Student discount$999£999$1,639$1,35915-inch MacBook Air, M5, MSRP$1,199£1,199$2,199$1,79915-inch MacBook Air, M5, Student discount$1,099£1,099$2,029$1,65914-inch MacBook Pro M5 MSRP$1,699£1,699$2,699$2,39914-inch MacBook Pro M5 Student discount$1,599£1,599$2,539$2,25914-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro MSRP$2,199£2,199$3,499$2,99914-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro Student discount$2,049£2,049$3,259$2,78916-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro MSRP$2,699£2,699$4,299$3,59916-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro Student discount$2,299£2,299$3,979$3,329iMac M4 MSRP$1,299£1,299$1,999$1,699iMac M4 Student discount$1,249£1,249$1,919$1,629Mac mini M4 MSRP$599£599$999$799Mac mini M4 Student discount$499£499$849$669Mac Studio M4 Max MSRP$1,999£2,099$3,499$2,699Mac Studio M4 Max Student discount$1,799£1,899$3,199$2,399Apple’s discounted price for students compared to the usual price in the U.S., U.K., Canada and Australia.

Other ways students can buy a Mac for less

Simon Jary

Getting a student discount from Apple’s Education Store isn’t the only way to save money when buying a Mac. Here are some other ways to find a good deal:

Look out for reseller discounts

You can often find significant savings at Apple resellers and retailers like Amazon, sometimes with discounts of up to $500. Check regularly for deals, including:

Best MacBook Air deals this month

Best MacBook Neo deals available now

Best MacBook Pro deals this month

Best iMac deals this month

Best Mac mini deals this month

Best MacBook deals for students

Buy a refurbished Mac

Apple’s Refurbished Store offers ex-display, returned, and previous-generation Macs at reduced prices. These devices are fully tested and come with a one-year warranty, making them a reliable option.

You can also buy refurbished Macs from third-party resellers, though quality can vary – so always check what “refurbished” includes before buying. Read our advice about buying a refurbished Mac, including Pros, cons, savings, and what to avoid.

What to avoid

Avoid Intel-based Macs: Macs used to use Intel Processors but over the past few years Apple has transitioning to its own silicon (M1, M2, M3, etc.). Only a small number of Intel Macs receive security updates, and that will not continue for long. This could mean needing to upgrade sooner than expected.

Don’t buy second-hand or used: While used Macs can be cheaper, they come with more risk. Unlike refurbished models, they may not be tested or come with a warranty. If you do consider buying second-hand, proceed with caution and buy from a trusted source.

Consider older models carefully: The biggest discounts are often on older Macs. While these can be good value, make sure you understand how they compare to newer models. Older devices may lack performance improvements, battery efficiency, and long-term software support. See: How long does Apple support Macs for.

FAQ
1.
Is a MacBook Neo good enough for students?

Yes. The MacBook Neo is considered an excellent choice for students with more than enough power for the average student. However, students in specialized fields like engineering, 4K video editing, or heavy software development may find the device limiting.

2.
Is a MacBook Air good enough for students?

The MacBook Air is the best laptop for most students due to its balance of portability, battery life, and performance. While the Air is “good enough” for the vast majority, a MacBook Pro is better for heavy workloads, connectivity and display tech.

3.
How much RAM do students need?

8GB should be sufficient, but we recommend 16GB.

4.
Is 256GB enough storage?

For most students, 256GB of storage is a functional minimum rather than an ideal long-term solution. It can work if you rely heavily on cloud storage, but many students will find it fills up quickly over time.

256GB is usually enough for basic academic tasks such as writing essays, web browsing, streaming, and light media use. However, modern operating systems and apps take up more space than ever, and storage can fill up faster than expected. Performance can also suffer as a drive nears capacity. A common rule of thumb is to buy at least twice the storage you think you’ll need to allow for growth and maintain performance.

For most students, 512GB is now the practical minimum if your budget allows. It provides more flexibility and longevity, especially as course materials and apps grow in size.

5.
What Apple Intelligence/AI features do Macs have for students?

Apple Intelligence brings a range of AI-powered tools to Macs designed to support academic work – from smarter note-taking to writing assistance and automation. These features are increasingly integrated into everyday apps like Notes, Messages, and Shortcuts.

Useful features include:

Smart transcription and scanning: Turn lectures and printed text into searchable notes.

In-line maths and handwriting refinement: Solve equations and improve handwritten notes.

Editing and summarisation: Refine essays and condense key information.

Live translation: Translate messages and add captions in calls.

Automation: Use Shortcuts to generate text or images automatically.

While these features can boost productivity, it is important to note that over-reliance on AI for writing could raise plagiarism or originality concerns if not used carefully.

Not all Apple devices support Apple Intelligence and some features are still less advanced than competing AI platforms.

How to choose the best MacBook for students

There is no “best MacBook for students” because everyone has different needs and choosing the best MacBook for a student depends on balancing academic requirements, portability, and budget. With the introduction of the MacBook Neo, Apple has significantly expanded its entry-level options, making the decision more complex than simply picking the most popular model.

When evaluating which model fits your needs, consider these primary components:

Portability vs. Screen Real Estate: The 13-inch models (Neo, Air, and Pro) weigh under 3 pounds, making them ideal for carrying between lectures. However, creative majors often benefit from the 15-inch Air or 16-inch Pro for more workspace.

Performance Needs: For general coursework (writing papers, browsing, streaming), the A18 Pro or M5 chips are more than sufficient. Students in engineering, data science, or high-end video editing should prioritize the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro or Max chips for sustained performance and better cooling.

Battery Life: This is critical for long days on campus. While the Neo offers up to 16 hours of video streaming, the M5 MacBook Air provides 18 hours, and the 14-inch MacBook Pro leads with up to 24 hours.

Connectivity: The MacBook Neo and Air feature silent, fanless designs but limited ports . The MacBook Pro includes HDMI and SDXC slots, which are useful for presentations and transferring media.

In conclusion, we recommend the following Macs depending on your use case:

Student TypeWhich ModelWhy?Budget-Conscious / K – 12MacBook NeoMost affordable Mac ever; starts at $499 for education.Everyday College UseMacBook Air (M5)Best balance of power, 18-hour battery, and portability.Creative & STEM MajorsMacBook Pro (M5/Pro)High-end displays (ProMotion) and power for heavy workloads.Budget Desktop SetupMac Mini (M4)Best value if portability isn’t required; $499 with education discount.The best Mac for different types of student

Our top 10 maximalist Mac setups turn the minimalist aesthetic on its head, with tons of hardware and ambitious configurations.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

On May 1, 2008, the iTunes Store made a major move. iTunes movie releases began coming out the same day as on DVD.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Apple TV has a strong lineup of top-tier shows currently airing, but May will bring several more brand new series, plus the first film directed by John Travolta, and more. Here’s everything new coming to Apple TV in May.

more…

In a notable evolution of its financial strategy, Apple has formally abandoned its “net cash neutral” target during Thursday’s fiscal second quarter 2026 earnings discussion. The move marks the end of a policy first announced in early 2018, when the company aimed to bring its massive cash pile (then $163 billion in net cash) roughly in line with its debt through aggressive share buybacks and dividends.

At the end of the March 2026 quarter, Apple reported $62 billion in net cash — $147 billion in cash and marketable securities minus approximately $85 billion in total debt. While still positive, this represents a significant reduction of over $100 billion since the policy’s inception.

New CFO Kevan Parekh explained the change on the earnings call: “Net cash neutral has been a valuable framework for our capital structure, and since 2018, we have significantly right-sized our balance sheet and reduced net cash by over $100 billion. As we move ahead, we are no longer providing net cash neutral as a formal target, and we will independently evaluate cash and debt.”

This shift gives Apple greater flexibility to manage its cash reserves and borrowing separately, rather than treating them as offsetting forces. It comes amid strong business performance, a CEO transition (with Tim Cook moving to Executive Chairman and John Ternus stepping up as CEO), and continued heavy capital returns to shareholders.

Strong Q2 Results Underpin the Announcement

• Apple delivered a solid beat in its fiscal Q2 (ended March 28, 2026):Revenue reached $111.18 billion, up 16.6% year-over-year.
• The company returned $15 billion to shareholders in the quarter alone ($3.8 billion in dividends and $11 billion via buybacks).
• The board authorized an additional $100 billion in share repurchases and raised the quarterly dividend by 4% to $0.27 per share.

Services hit new records, iPhone showed growth (including in key markets), and the installed base continues to expand — all while Apple invests in AI features across its ecosystem.

What This Means for AAPL Investors

For years, the net cash neutral goal served as a disciplined signal to Wall Street that Apple wouldn’t let excess cash pile up indefinitely. It helped justify massive buyback programs that have been highly accretive to earnings per share.

Dropping the formal target doesn’t mean Apple will stop returning capital — quite the opposite. Management reiterated its philosophy: invest in the business first, then return excess cash to owners over time. With the policy gone, Apple has more room to optimize its capital structure based on market conditions, interest rates, investment opportunities, and business needs.

This could translate to sustained or even accelerated buybacks and dividends in the coming years, especially as the company generates robust free cash flow. It also reflects Apple’s maturity as a financial powerhouse — no longer needing a rigid net-zero framework after successfully right-sizing its balance sheet.

MacDailyNews Take: As a new CEO prepares to take over, this policy shift feels like a clean handoff: a stronger, more flexible balance sheet ready for the next chapter under new leadership. Apple’s decision to end the net cash neutral era is a sign of confidence in its ongoing cash generation machine and a positive development for long-term shareholders who benefit from consistent, flexible capital returns.

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The post Apple officially abandons its ‘net cash neutral’ policy; could lead to accelerated buybacks and dividends appeared first on MacDailyNews.

CEO Tim Cook revealed Apple’s plans to reinvest tariff refunds — possibly well north of a billion bucks — in U.S. manufacturing projects.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

AirPods Pro 3

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Mother’s Day is coming, and summer is right around the corner, so it’s a perfect time to pick up a new set of AirPods—especially when you can get the AirPods Pro 3 for $200, saving a fantastic $49 at Amazon or Best Buy. We’ve only seen them cheaper one other time, so this is definitely a solid deal.

The earbuds were built for anyone who loves music. The advanced active noise cancellation is one of the things we loved most about these earbuds when reviewing them, blocking out unwanted noise while still letting you stay connected to the world around you with Transparency mode. And you won’t need to worry about charging either, with up to 8 hours of listening time with ANC active, or up to 10 hours in Transparency mode, and up to 24 hours when popping them into the charging case.

We gave the AirPods Pro 3 a near-perfect 4.5-star rating and our Editors’ Choice award, finding them to be super comfortable, with a secure fit, and loving how handy the heart rate sensor is when you’re working out. Without needing an Apple Watch or any fitness tracker, your AirPods Pro 3 can track every step you take and even help calculate the calories you burn.

Don’t miss out on the chance to get the AirPods Pro 3 for $200 before the price jumps back up.

Sure, Apple just released its most affordable MacBook ever, but you probably shouldn’t expect a big wave of affordable Apple products anytime soon. To hear CEO (for now) Tim Cook tell it, the company is facing the same exorbitant RAM prices as everyone else as AI server demand gobbles up the entire planet’s chip capacity.

Apple’s ultra-efficient architecture makes it better-suited for phones, tablets, and laptops with limited RAM, but that can only go so far. And even that limited RAM is going up in price.

During its investor conference call after announcing record revenue for the March-ending quarter, Cook said for the last quarter and the current (June-ending) quarter, the impact of high memory prices is “partly offset by carry-in inventory.” In other words, all the chips Apple’s already got on hand. But beyond the June quarter, memory costs will “drive an increasing impact on our business.”

We will look at a range of options with memory costs increasing…

Tim Cook

What are they going to do about it? It’s impossible to say without resorting to plain guesswork. Cook again said Apple is looking at “a range of options” and noted that Mac mini and Mac Studio will likely remain in short supply for a few more months. What exactly those “range of options” are is anyone’s guess.

Will Apple raise prices, either on whole products or on RAM upgrades?

Will Apple ship products with less RAM, forgoing expected RAM increases?

Will some products just remain in short supply, affecting total sales figures?

Will Apple keep hardware prices steady and make up the margin on Services and new revenue streams such as ads in Maps?

The answer to each of these is… maybe. Apple is second-to-none in the consumer tech industry at managing supply, prices, and keeping an absolutely crazy-high profit margin. This quarter, the company had a gross margin of 49.3 percent, and that’s with the impact of tariffs. For the next quarter, despite the chip challenges, Apple expects a margin of around 48 percent.

Apple doesn’t give guidance beyond the next quarter, though. And that’s the point at which the carry-in inventory dries up, and the RAM price hikes are really going to hit. It looks like Tim Cook might be leaving John Ternus with the an “incredible roadmap” when he takes over as CEO on September 1, but he’s also inheriting a ticking time bomb of chip prices for a company that is already oft-criticized for the relative price of its products.

It will be managing this chip crisis, and not the launch of the iPhone Ultra or smart glasses, that will be the first real test of John Ternus’ tenure as CEO.

At a glanceExpert’s Rating

Pros

Supports up to four external displays at 4K 60Hz

Up to two displays at 6K 60Hz

16 ports, inc. three 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4

3x DisplayPort video ports

2x HDMI video ports

2.5Gb Ethernet

Speedy SD card readers

96W laptop charging

Cons

Weak 149W power supply

Our Verdict

Bristling with dedicated video ports, the Kensington SD5900T is our new number-one choice for high-bandwidth DisplayLink docking station. MacBook Neo owners needn’t bother with spending the extra on a Thunderbolt dock, but for everyone else looking to add more external displays than Apple’s limited Macs allow the SD5900T is a fine flexible choice.

Price When Reviewed

This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined

Best Pricing Today

Price When Reviewed

$299.99

Best Prices Today: Kensington SD5900T EQ Thunderbolt 4 Quad 4K Dock with DisplayLink

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$260.99

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$299.99

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Best for: People hitting Apple’s display limits.Not for: Users who don’t need more than 1–2 monitors.Key limitations: DisplayLink downsides (HDCP/streaming issues, 60Hz cap); Weak 149W power supply.

When it comes to connecting multiple displays it’s important to check out your Mac’s processor. The base/Pro/Max type of Apple M-series chip isn’t just about raw processing power—it also decides the limit of how many monitors you can attach.

And that limit for the MacBook Neo or older base M1 and M2 Macs is just one.

Since Apple ditched Intel chips for its own Silicon M-series processors users have frequently stumbled across this frustrating limitation—but fear not as there is a way past Apple’s screen limit.

The M-series chips are either base (M1, M2, M3, etc) or more advanced (M1 Pro, M2 Pro, M4 Max etc). All the chips have a maximum number of external displays that they support, but the non-Pro/Max chips are the weakest. The MacBook Neo doesn’t even have an M-series processor, working off a less powerful A18 chip (the same used in some iPhones).

Base M1 and M2: one external monitor

Neo: one external monitor

Base M3: two external monitors when MacBook’s lid is closed

Base M4, Base M5, M4 Pro, M4 Max chip: two external monitors

M5 Pro: three external monitors (via Thunderbolt 5, otherwise two)

M5 Max: four external monitors (via Thunderbolt 5, otherwise two)

Thankfully, there’s a workaround for all the above Macs, involving some free software and a supporting hub or dock, that means any Mac can support at least three displays—even the Neo.

The most popular free software that solves the Apple chip limitation is DisplayLink. Installation is simple—there’s some initial fiddling around in System Settings—but after that you can connect up to five external displays depending on the prowess of the hub or dock.

We’ve gone into more detail about how to connect multiple monitors to M1/M2/Neo Macs in our dedicated how to and list of the best DisplayLink docks.

Most DisplayLink docks use USB-C to connect to the Mac, which is not a problem for the MacBook Neo that has USB-C itself but is a lower data bandwidth for the other Thunderbolt Macs. Typical USB-C DisplayLink docks have a data-transfer rate of 10Gbps (gigabytes per second), while Thunderbolt 4 is rated at 40Gbps and Thunderbolt 5 at 80Gbps.

10Gbps might be all you need from a dock but if you are connected to external storage drives, for instance, then Thunderbolt speeds become more important.

Right now, there’s no 80Gbps Thunderbolt 5 DisplayLink dock on the market but there are some 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 DisplayLink docks.

We’ve tested the best Thunderbolt DisplayLink docks, and rate both the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with DisplayLink and Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station (TBT-6950PD). These docks are almost identical and differentiated only by the Plugable dock having a cable 8 inches (200mm) longer than the Satechi!

Both feature one upstream Thunderbolt 4 port and three downstream, plus two HDMI 2.0 video ports, two 10Gbps USB-A, Gigabit Ethernet, SD card reader, 3.5mm audio jack and a 180W power supply. They support up to four external extended displays at 4K/60Hz: two via Thunderbolt 4 and two via HDMI as long as the DisplayLink software has been installed.

Kensington’s SD5900T EQ Dock also uses Thunderbolt 4 and DisplayLink to support up to four external displays, but it features a different set of ports to achieve this—offering more dedicated video ports for your monitor connection of choice.

Simon Jary

Specs

One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port (40Gbps, 96W)


Two downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 15W)


Two HDMI ports

Three DisplayPort

One USB-C port (10Gbps, 4.5W) on front

One USB-A port (10Gbps, 4.5W) on front

Two USB-A ports (5Gbps, 4.5W) on rear

2.5Gb Ethernet 


SD Card reader (UHS-II, 312MBps)


MicroSD Card reader (UHS-II, 312MBps)


3.5mm audio jack on front

149W power supply

The SD5900T’s 16 ports outgun the Satechi and Plugable Thunderbolt 4 DisplayLink docks, which both host just 11.

Simon Jary

Display configurations: How many displays can you run with this dock?

While it sacrifices one of the Thunderbolt ports for an extra DisplayPort, there are two more DisplayPorts (DP) as well as two HDMI—that’s more choice of dedicated video ports, with one of the TB4 ports also available for a display connection.

You get to choose between DP and HDMI in each of the two video port banks and then get to use either the third DP and/or one of the front/rear downstream TB4 ports.

How many external displays you can connect depends, as ever, on your Mac’s processor.

With this DisplayPort dock, the MacBook Neo and Macs with the base M1/M2/M3/M4/M5 chips can support three displays: two 4K/60Hz via the DP/HDMI ports and a third up to 6K/60Hz via either the third DP or TB4.

Kensington

Macs with a Pro or Max M-series chip get the option of a fourth display, with two 4K/60Hz via DP/HDMI plus up to two 6K/60Hz using the other ports. You can also connect four displays to Macs with the base M3 chipset, but you must keep the laptop lid closed for this to work.

The extra external displays allowed with the M5 Pro and M5 Max are for Thunderbolt 5 only, so not supported by this dock (or any DisplayLink dock at the time of writing).

The Satechi and Plugable DisplayLink TB4 docks feature fewer dedicated video ports so must choose between TB4 and HDMI ports. That third TB4 port offers the user more flexibility but Kensington rightly knows a DisplayLink dock purchaser is principally using the dock for its multiple display functionality rather than as a standard docking station.

Simon Jary

DisplayLink required: What do you need to install, and what are the downsides?

The point of a DisplayLink dock is, of course, the benefits bestowed by that free software download and reasonably easy install.

Where a base M1/M2 Mac or MacBook Neo can natively handle only one monitor, DisplayLink lets them connect to up to three, and Pro/Max-chipped Macs up to four.

DisplayLink is a simple install with the only fiddly bit when you have to grant “Screen Recording” rights to it via Systems Settings–it sounds scary but don’t worry as it doesn’t actually record anything. Instead, it just allows the DisplayLink Manager app to capture pixels and send them to the dock.

There are some potential negatives to having DisplayLink installed on your Mac:

Unless you disconnect the DisplayLink-enabled screens or unhook the dock, you can’t watch some protected content in Netflix, AppleTV, Amazon Prime, Disney+ or YouTube TV and other streaming applications due to those platforms using High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP), which is Intel-developed digital copy protection.

DisplayLink’s maximum screen refresh rate is 60Hz, which is fine for most users but can introduce noticeable lag with rapidly changing content, which is not ideal for video editing or gaming.

If you are using your multiple screens for general productivity work, then you’ll likely never bump into these DisplayLink downsides.

Simon Jary

USB extras: What ports do you actually get (and what’s missing)?

The SD5900T hosts three type-C ports: two downstream Thunderbolt 4 and one 10Gbps USB-C. That’s the same number as found on the Plugable and Satechi TB4 DisplayLink docks, although those docks feature three downstream TB4 ports instead. TB4 is better than USB-C but it’s likely you’ll use it for video anyway so unless you are using it to just move from one display to two on base M1/M2 Macs it doesn’t really make a difference.

Simon Jary

Power

The upstream TB4 port can passthrough up to 96W of power to the connected MacBook, which should be enough to keep any of Apple’s laptop going even under a heavy workload.

Each of the two downstream TB4 ports can output 15W of power, but the other USB ports are puny at 4.5W. It would have been great if the front-mounted USB-C port could output even 20W of power to allow for iPhone fast-charging but you should look to other USB-C or wireless chargers for this rather than hook your phone up to the dock for charging.

Check our recommendations for the best iPhone USB-C chargers and best wireless iPhone chargers for superior power options.

The lack of USB output power is in some ways fortunate as the SD5900T’s power supply is rated at just 149W, which is the lowest we’ve seen of self-powered docking stations. Most docks offer at least 180W, but as the ports offer little in the way of charging it’s again less of a worry.

Kensington’s KonstantCharge technology enables devices connected to the dock to charge even when your MacBook is undocked.

Kensington

Storage options

The dock has both SD and MicroSD card readers at its front for easy-access portable storage cards. With MacBook internal storage being less than generous unless you fork out a lot of money at the point of purchase, this is an affordable storage solution with 512GB cards starting from around $100 on Amazon.

Kensington has added these card readers at the top-end in terms of speed, rated at UHS-II’s 312MBps in comparison to Apple’s 250MBps SDXC card reader on the MacBook Pro. The Satechi and Plugable TB4 DisplayLink docks feature just the one SD card reader, but also at 312MBps.

Simon Jary

Network

Another area where the Kensington SD5900T beats the Satechi and Plugable DisplayLink docks is its inclusion of faster 2.5Gb Ethernet compared to 1Gb Ethernet. Again, most users won’t benefit as the standard office network remains Gigabit Ethernet but having the backwards-compatible 2.5GbE is useful if you do run a fast wired network or you want to future-proof yourself for if/when you do.

Price

The Kensington SD5900T is priced at $299.99 / £269.99, which is the same as the Satechi and Plugable TB4 DisplayLink docks mentioned in comparison above.

Unless you’re a base M1/M2 Mac user looking to add just two external displays, Kensington’s greater choice of video ports is the better solution at the same price. And the SD5900T includes superior Ethernet and two card readers if these are important factors to you.

There are several versions of the Kensington SD5900T, and these seem to be differentiated only by color. We tested the Midnight Blue SD5900T but the Black SD5910T is exactly the same except for the more standard dock color. E.U. and U.K. customers should look for the SD5920T model, which sadly is in black only.

You’ll find more of our recommendations for the best DisplayLink docks and non-DisplayLink best Thunderbolt docks if you want to dig deeper for other solutions.

Simon Jary

Should you buy the Kensington SD5900T?

Bristling with dedicated video ports, the Kensington SD5900T is our new number-one choice for high-bandwidth DisplayLink docking station. M5 Pro/Max users can probably look to a standard Thunderbolt 5 dock and MacBook Neo owners needn’t bother with spending the extra on a Thunderbolt dock, but for everyone else looking to add more external displays than Apple’s limited Macs allow the SD5900T is a fine flexible choice.

Most monitors sit on a desk and don’t move any more than their stand or arm allows. We have a separate round up of the best monitors for Mac.

But sometimes a more portable solution makes sense when the MacBook’s own screen simply isn’t large enough. There are two main types of portable display: travel monitors that can be slipped into a backpack; or moveable monitors that can be carried from one room to another or quickly hidden from sight when not in use.

Here are our picks for the best portable displays to match with your Mac.

Plugable 15.6-inch USB-C Portable Display: Lightweight portable USB-C 15.6-inch HD screen

Pros

Full HD (1920×1080 at 60Hz) IPS display

Lightweight  

Integrated folding travel cover and stand

85W pass-through charging

2x downstream 10Gbps USB-C ports

Cons

Not much larger than a laptop screen

Price When Reviewed:

$239.95

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Size: 15.6-inch

Resolution: 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HD

sRGB Color Gamut: 45%

Brightness: Up to 300 nits

Connections: 3x USB-C

Webcam: No

Stand: Foldable

Weight: 1.85lb (840g)

Orientation: Landscape

This 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display doubles most laptops’ screen space and is simple to setup and connect, and then disconnect and lightweight enough to carry away when you’re done.

Weighing just 1.85lb (840g) with its cover/stand or 1.35lb (615g) without, it is barely noticeable alongside your laptop in your backpack or briefcase

On the back of the display is a detachable PU vinyl cover that can protect the screen in transit or storage and doubles up as a foldable stand that is easy to setup.–Simon Jary

Read our full

Plugable 15.6-inch USB-C Portable Display review

Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro: Portable USB-C 16-inch QHD screen that stacks

Pros

QHD (2560×1600 pixels at 120Hz) display

Lightweight  

Can attach to MacBook

Integrated folding travel cover and stand

65W pass-through charging

Cons

Not much larger than a laptop screen

Price When Reviewed:

$299.99

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Float 2 Pro

Size: 16-inch (Pro)

Resolution: 2.5K (2560×1600 pixels) aka QHD

sRGB Color Gamut: 100%

Brightness: Up to 350 nits

Connections: USB-C & Mini HDMI

Webcam: No

Stand: Foldable

Weight: 2.9lb (1.3kg)

Orientation: Landscape

As its name suggests, this lightweight 16-inch QHD display ‘floats’ above your MacBook’s screen via a clever built-in stand that is simple to setup. This Stacked mode doubles your screen space—yet doesn’t feel like a second screen, just an extension. You can keep it physically attached to your laptop with the included magnets but this is an option rather than a necessity.

As well as Stacked (‘floating’) there are two other viewing modes: Free Standing (not floating and separate from your MacBook), and Presentation (the screen is flipped to share content with the person in front of you). The QHD (2.5K) screen sets it apart from many of the HD portable screens reviewed here.

There is a non-Pro version, the Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2, with a slightly smaller 15-6-inch HD screen.

Float 2

Size: 15.6-inch

Resolution: 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HD

sRGB Color Gamut: 62%

Brightness: Up to 300 nits

Connections: USB-C & Mini HDMI

Webcam: No

Stand: Foldable

Weight: 2.9lb (1.3kg)

Orientation: Landscape

Read our full

Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro review

Asus ZenScreen MB249C: Large but portable 24-inch HD screen

Pros

Large HD screen area

Sturdy built-in and foldable kickstand

Offers USB-C for easy single-cable connections

Good image quality

Cons

Too large for a backpack

Price When Reviewed:

$349

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Size: 24-inch

Resolution: 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HD

sRGB Color Gamut: 100%

Brightness: Up to 250 nits

Panel type: IPS LCD

Connections: USB-C or HDMI to host

Webcam: No

Stand: Foldable

Weight: 6.2lb (2.8kg)

Orientation: Landscape

Portable monitors are usually associated with travel but, in reality, most never leave the home or office they’re shipped to. Many purchase portable monitors not for their portability but instead their versatility and ease of use—so it can be moved across a home or corporate office. At home, it could let you have two home office setups without having to purchase two monitors, or simply store the monitor out of sight in a cupboard when not in use. In an office, it could be carried to meetings if you need to lead a presentation or study a large spreadsheet. I’ve been on many a call, trying to keep on track on my MacBook as the presenter talks through a complex Excel doc. As large a portable monitor as possible is what you need in those situations—or a wide TV screen.

The Asus ZenScreen MB249C pairs a sizable 24-inch screen with several stand options including a kickstand/handle that makes it easy to tote around a house or corporate office. It provides excellent image quality for its intended purpose. It’s bright enough and scores well in contrast, color gamut, and color accuracy, all while avoiding notable problems or pitfalls.

The MB249C is a great choice for a second decent-sized monitor, too, as it offers multiple ways to mount and orient it alongside your primary monitor.–Matthew S. Smith

Read a full Asus ZenScreen MB249C review on PCWorld.

UPerfect Delta Max & Delta Mega: Stacked dual-screen monitors

Pros

Quality dual HD screens

Foldable

Flexible adjustments

Landscape or Portrait modes

Cons

Scant instructions

Delta Max’s touch functions are basic and sporadic

Price When Reviewed:

$649.99

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Delta Mega

Size: 2x 23.8-inch

Resolution: 2x 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HD

sRGB Color Gamut: 100%

Brightness: Up to 300 nits

Panel type: IPS LCD

Connections: USB-C or HDMI to host

Webcam: No

Stand: Foldable

Weight: 11.2lb (5.1kg)

Orientation: Landscape or Portrait

The standard way of adding more than one external display is to have two external monitors side by side, creating a wide extended screen display. A vertically stacked monitor, such as two Delta models from UPerfect—the dual 23.8-inch Delta Mega and dual 18.5-inch Delta Max Touch—can be more ergonomic as the body doesn’t need to frequently turn left and right. The line of sight remains directly in front of the user, reducing frequent rotation of the neck.

Both Delta models with IPS screens look sleek in black aluminum, with a built-in stand folded flush to the outside of the lower screen. You can modify the angle of the stand to adjust the height and angle of the screens to suit your best working posture. The central hinge also allows for flexible adjustment of the two screens to a comfortable and ergonomic angle when used in either a stacked arrangement or folded back on itself to share meeting content with people facing you—say, so you looking at one screen and the clients on the other side of the meeting seeing the other.

These portable monitors are a great solution if you want a good-looking, well-built and super-adjustable portable extended dual screen that connects to your laptop for a more spacious screen experience. The flexibility to bend right back to offer front and back mirrored screens could be the solutions you are looking for in a adaptable dual-screen display.

Simon Jary

Delta Max Touch

Size: 2x 18.5-inch

Resolution: 2x 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HD

sRGB Color Gamut: 100%

Brightness: Up to 300 nits

Connections: USB-C or Mini-HDMI to host

Webcam: No

Stand: Foldable

Weight: 5.2lb (2.4kg)

Orientation: Landscape or Portrait

The screens of the Delta Max Touch, pictured above, are supposed to feature touch controls and while it’s definitely there the touch functionality is basic at best and awkward in use. Ignore the touch features and this model is a super-portable dual screen. It can also support connections from two computers: one for each screen. Read our full UPerfect Delta Max Touch review.

For our home-working setup we prefer the larger Delta Mega that is a little less portable by size but certainly easily carried short distances. When in use it creates a lot of HD screen space and, like the Delta Max, can easily be folded and stored out of sight when working from home, or commuted to an office or farther afield in a car. If you don’t need all that extra space the regular Delta Max without the average touch controls is a cheaper alternative.–Simon Jary

Read our full

Uperfect Delta Mega Dual Screen Monitor review

MSI Pro MP165 E6 Portable Monitor: Budget portable monitor

Pros

Includes kickstand, tripod, VESA mounts

Has two USB-C ports, both with Power Delivery

Super affordable

Cons

Modest color performance and accuracy

Limited menu and image quality options

Price When Reviewed:

$89.99

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Size: 15.6-inch

Resolution: 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HD

sRGB Color Gamut: 47%

Brightness: Up to 250 nits

Panel type: IPS LCD

Connections: USB-C or HDMI to host

Webcam: No

Stand: Kickstand

Weight: 1.72lb (780g)

Orientation: Landscape

Budget portable monitors are a dime a dozen, and to be frank, many are interchangeable. That’s because most use the same IPS-LCD display panel technology, offer the same or similar ports, and are similar in size. The MSI Pro MP165 E6 also follows these trends but stands out with kickstand, 1/4-inch tripod and 75x75mm VESA mount options.

The MSI Pro MP165 E6 is a versatile option for shoppers who need a budget portable monitor that can be used with a VESA wall mount, a conventional monitor arm, or even a tripod.

Color gamut is where the MSI Pro MP165 E6 falls towards the bottom of the budget competition. It has a very limited color gamut that covers just 63 percent of sRGB and 47 percent of both DCI-P3 and AdobeRGB—compare that with the UPerfect Delta Max’s 100% or Delta Mega’s 97%. This is not a monitor for professional photo or video editing but, rather, a budget portable monitor for office productivity, digital signage, collaboration, and other tasks where color performance is less of a concern.–Matthew S. Smith

Read a full MSI Pro MP165 E6 review on PCWorld.

Mobile Pixels Trio 3 Pro: Screen extender for portability

Pros

Adds two 14-inch screens

Portable

High QHD resolution

Easy setup

Cons

Requires software installation

Price When Reviewed:

$499.99

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Size: 2x 14-inch

Resolution: 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HD

sRGB Color Gamut: 100%

Color Gamut NTSC: 72%

Brightness: Up to 300 nits

Connections: USB-C to host

Webcam: No

Stand: Connected

Weight: 4.13lb (1.9kg)

Orientation: Landscape or Portrait

The Mobile Pixels Trio 3 Pro is a screen extender that your MacBook slots into and adds a 14-inch screen either side of the laptop’s own. It is compatible with 13-16-inch MacBooks, and connects via USB-C cables (included).

When folded up, the Trio 3 Pro measures 13.4 x 8.8 x 0.9 inches (34 x 22.4 x 2.3cm). In all its unfurled glory, it spans 40.3 inches (just over 1m) but can be pulled closer together if your available desk space doesn’t stretch that far.

It’s a design that will either excite you with its screen breadth or scare you with its wingspan. It looks cumbersome but is actually quite light and flexible. The Trio 3 Pro’s protective and subtly magnetic folio cover doubles up as an integrated stand that is reasonably firm.

Note that plain (non-Pro/Max) M1 and M2 Macs plus the new MacBook Neo are limited to connecting just a single monitor. To work with the Trio 3 Pro users of those Macs will need to download and install free software (rather like DisplayLink).

It’s QHD rather than 4K and so is not as sharp and clear as the MacBook’s own. But it’s fine for spreadsheets, browsers and other mainstream applications. It’s great for adding supplementary screen estate when you’re on a video call, or for presentations.

At $499, it isn’t cheap, but you are paying for portability and two decent screens. If what you need is a more lightweight and flexible solution that’s perfect for video conferencing, presentations or multiple application work, the Trio 3 Pro is a striking solution with some clever customizations.–Simon Jary

Read our full

Mobile Pixels Trio 3 Pro review

Arovia Splay: Ultra-portable, foldable monitor and projector

Pros

Foldable display

Converts into projector  

Power bank function

Cons

High cost

Price When Reviewed:

$1,299.99

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Size: 24.5-inchResolution: 2K (1920×1080 pixels) aka HDBrightness: Up to 760 nitsConnections: HDMI to hostWebcam: NoStand: FoldableWeight: 2.5lb (1.5kg)Orientation: Landscape

This clever display is actually an LED Pico projector that can transform into a fold-out 24.5-inch monitor via a collapsible shroud that surrounds the projector as it projects the image from your computer via the HDMI connection. The price is high but this portable all-environment, 2-in-1 screen might solve your display needs away from a standard desk setup.

Setup is easy and there’s a useful video available for teaching you all its tricks. When collapsed the whole thing fits into a small box a bit larger than an iPad mini or over-ear headphones case (see our photo above), albeit quite a fat one, at 9.5 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches. It weighs 2.5lbs (1.1kg), so combined with the foldability it’s more portable than traditional fixed and firmer monitors.

The 24.5-inch screen displays a native 1920 x 1080 resolution in a 16:9 aspect ratio, with a max brightness of 760 nits in display mode.

While the nanomaterial screen is flexible, it is taut and wrinkle-free. You adjust focus and brightness via controls on the top of the projector body. Comapred to a standard hard monitor it’s not as great for reading a lot of small text on the screen but its target function for viewing from distance.

The Splay is marketed at on-the-road presentations and trade shows, videos, but it would work as well for showing videos at home or on a camping trip when a laptop just isn’t large enough. The 44Wh battery should keep the screen bright for up to four hours and handily can triple-up as a power bank to top up your phone or laptop via USB-C. It has stereo speakers built-in, with volume controls on the projector.

Apparently, 2026 is going to be the year when Apple introduces the “Ultra” branding for the iPhone and MacBook. Which sounds interesting and leads to pedantic arguments over what constitutes an Ultra product. But it’s Apple, it can define “Ultra” however it sees fit.

Which leads me to the gaping hole in the proposed Ultra lineup: a desktop Mac. (Settle down, iPad fans; CEO-in-the-wings John Ternus has been working on what sounds like an iPad Ultra, though it has an uncertain status.) It just seems like if Apple is going down this Ultra road, it has to have a Mac Ultra. After all, of all of Apple’s products, the desktop Mac is the one best suited to go all out and truly hold up the “Ultra” branding.

The Mac Pro had its day

The Mac Pro seemed like the most fitting computer to be rebranded as a Mac Ultra. The tower form factor allows Apple to go hog wild with its components, fitting it with an M-series Ultra chip, installing a ton of RAM, installing the fastest SSD, and using the latest specifications with Thunderbolt, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc. Apple could redesign the tower so it doesn’t have as many expansion slots.

Apple doesn’t really want anything to do with the tower form factor anymore.

Thiago Trevisan

There’s a reason why Apple discontinued the Mac Pro, however. Apple just doesn’t sell enough towers to make it worthwhile, and even a redesigned, smaller tower probably wouldn’t sell in the numbers Apple would like.

As much as I would love to see Apple create a “hot rod” Mac, it doesn’t fit in Apple’s product methodology. The Mac Pro–actually, the tower Mac, to be more specific–is no longer a supported Apple form factor.

iMac Ultra: iMac Pro reborn

Of all the desktop Macs, the iMac is the most likely candidate for an Ultra version. Would it be the fastest, most powerful Mac available? No, but Apple isn’t necessarily defining “Ultra” that way. “Ultra” applies to the product in a particular line that goes above and beyond a typical feature set in some way, like an iPhone that folds or a MacBook with an OLED touchscreen.

An iMac Ultra could fill a demand for an all-in-one with a larger display. As someone who has reviewed the M1, M3, and M4 iMacs, I get a lot of reader feedback stating that the 24-inch display isn’t big enough, with some saying that if it’s not at least 30 inches, it’s not worth their time. After all, the iMac Pro was 27 inches, and that was 10 years ago, so an Ultra iMac would need to be bigger than that.

An iMac Ultra could have a 32-inch display, which will surely satisfy those users. It could be a 6K display, too. Basically, Apple could take the panel from the old Pro Display XDR. (I know the execution isn’t as simple as that, but it’s the right size and the design would be perfect.)

While we’re making wishes, how about this one: Use the same design of the Pro Display XDR for the iMac Ultra.

Foundry

As for the chip, Apple could go with a Pro or Max chip to set it apart from the standard model and preserve the Mac Studio’s status as the top-end Mac. But a Pro or Mac chip is a significant upgrade from the base chip in the current iMac.

The larger display would be the key component of the iMac Ultra. Much of the other features could mirror those of the current iMac: Thunderbolt ports (upgraded to Thunderbolt 5 for the iMac Ultra), Ethernet through the power adapter, etc. And of course, Apple can make it in Space Black as an ode to the old iMac Pro and include the black Magic Mouse or black Magic Trackpad.

Would it sell?

Admittedly, an iMac Ultra would address a niche that’s even smaller than the current iMac’s. But it seems like it would be bigger than that of the Mac Pro, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the demand exceeded that of the upcoming iPhone Ultra.

Price would be the key factor in its ability to sell. The iMac with four Thunderbolt ports is $1,499, the M4 Pro MacBook Pro starts at $2,199, and the Pro Display XDR was $4,999. That $4,999 XDR price, however, did not change from its original release in 2019, so it stands to reason that a panel like the one it used is much more affordable now. So perhaps the iMac Ultra would start in the $2,799 range. I think a lot of people would buy it at that price. I know I would.

TL;DR: The MagTag Ultra Slim Tracker Card, which works with the Apple Find My app, is on sale for $23.99 (MSRP $59.99), making it an easy way to track your wallet or bag in real time without adding any bulk.

Losing your wallet isn’t just inconvenient — it’s a full-day derailment. Cards to cancel, IDs to replace, and that nagging feeling you left it somewhere obvious. Most trackers help, but they’re bulky enough that you don’t always want them crammed into something slim like a wallet. The MagTag Ultra Slim Tracker Card connects to the Apple Find My app to make sure you never lose it again, and right now it’s down 60% from $59.99 to $23.99.

It’s built to be practically invisible (about as thin as a credit card), so it slides into your wallet, passport holder, or bag without changing how you carry things. Once it’s in place, it taps into Apple’s Find My network for real-time tracking. If you leave something behind, you’ll get a heads-up, and if it’s nearby, you can trigger a sound to track it down quickly.

Why the MagTag Ultra Slim Tracker Card stands out:

Ultra-slim 1.5mm design that fits in wallets and tight spaces

Works with Apple Find My for global tracking

Left-behind alerts, which help you catch mistakes early

Loud beeping that makes nearby items easy to locate

Rechargeable battery that lasts up to 5 months with wireless charging

Waterproof and dustproof for everyday use and travel

It’s one of those small upgrades that quietly removes a recurring headache.

If you’re tired of second-guessing where you left things, grabbing the MagTag Ultra Slim Tracker Card is an easy way to stay a step ahead — on sale for just $23.99 (MSRP $59.99).

MagTag Ultra Slim Tracker Card – Works with Apple Find My AppSee Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change.

The iPhone 17 lineup is now the most popular iPhone lineup in Apple’s history, with its strong demand helping the company report record revenues every quarter.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Following the release of Apple’s earnings report for the second fiscal quarter of 2026, shares rose slightly in after-hours trading as the market digested the results and outlook for Q3 2026. Here are the details.

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Apple has all but given up on the Vision Pro after the M5 model
failed to revitalize interest in the device, MacRumors has
learned. Apple updated the Vision Pro with a faster M5 chip and a
more comfortable band in October 2025, but there were no other
hardware changes, and consumers still weren’t interested. […]

The Vision Pro has been unpopular since it first launched, and
Apple only sold around 600,000 units in total. Insider sources
told MacRumors that Apple has received an unusually high
percentage of returns, far exceeding any other modern Apple
product.

Apple has apparently stopped work on the Vision Pro and the Vision
Pro team has been redistributed to other teams within Apple. Some
former Vision Pro team members are working on Siri, which is not a
surprise as Vision Pro chief Mike Rockwell has been leading the
Siri team since March 2025.

This report comes as news to everyone at Apple working in the Vision Product Group (VPG). Nothing about the future of the platform has changed recently. When it was a secret project, prior to unveiling, it was called the Technology Development Group (TDG) inside Apple. Then, when Vision Pro was unveiled, it became VPG. And then at some point the hardware went under Apple’s hardware group (led by John Ternus) and the software under the software group (led by Craig Federighi). So there have been changes, yes, but only the sort of changes that are natural when a product shifts from being a secret to being one of Apple’s regular non-secret platforms.

As for poor sales, I think it’s unquestionable that Vision Pro sales — and general enthusiasm — have been a disappointment. What momentum they had out of the gate has seemingly petered out. But the optimistic scenario inside Apple was not all that high. The best-case scenario was surely a bigger number of units than they’ve actually sold, but not that much more. There’s no realistic scenario where Vision Pro was an out-of-the-gate hit like, say, the iPad was. It’s an all-new device in an all-new product category that starts at $3,500 and costs more like $4,000 if you need corrective lenses. Before it debuted, there were multiple reports from multiple sources that suggested (a) that Sony could only manufacture a maximum of 900,000 displays per year, capping dual-display Vision Pro headsets at 450,000 per year; and (b) that Apple itself “expected to ship fewer than half a million headsets in the first year of its release, according to people involved in its supply chain” (per Wayne Ma at The Information).

Look at how Apple unveiled the second-gen Vision Pro with M5 — it was the definition of “low key”. I don’t think there was a single person in Cupertino — not one — who looked at first-generation Vision Pro sales and thought, “I know what will turn this around in a big way: a second-generation speed bump where the M2 chip is upgraded to an M5!” That speed bump in October was not intended to make a huge difference. It was just a signal that they’re still at it. Speed bumps are good. (And it probably helps, not hurts, margins because the M5 is used on Macs and iPads too, and no other product still in production uses the M2.) Rather than anyone — literally anyone — at Apple being surprised that the October second-gen M5 update did not meaningfully change the sales trajectory, I think the entire company would have been flabbergasted (and caught flat-footed on supply) if it had.

This sentence from Clover’s report is doing a lot of work:

Apple has apparently stopped work on the Vision Pro and the Vision
Pro team has been redistributed to other teams within Apple.

There’s only one Vision hardware product to date, and that product, through two generations, is named Vision Pro. If Clover is saying that no one is working on a third-generation revision of the Vision Pro product we know today, maybe that’s correct. I don’t know. I certainly hope it’s correct. I think it was fine for Apple to do one new-generation speed bump of the original hardware. But going forward, they clearly need to do something significant for the next hardware. Ideally, two things: a much more appealing “Vision Pro” and a lower-priced “Vision Air” or just plain “Vision” or, hell, a “Vision Neo”. Take a new crack at the high end with a lighter-weight higher-resolution Vision Pro and open up new markets with something starting at under $2,000.

But I don’t think anyone is reading that sentence from Clover’s report that way. It implies — along with the headline — that Apple is just giving up on the whole platform. That’s how everyone is reading it, and it’s clearly what the article, and especially headline, implies.

I don’t think that’s true, at all. There’s a VisionOS 27 update coming at WWDC and new hardware in the works. Not just AR glasses, but immersive Vision headsets. There are, I believe, as many people at Apple working on VisionOS software and immersive content today as there ever have been. It’s full steam ahead. The pressure is on, I’m sure, but there’s no doom and gloom. The Apple folks in the Vision group aren’t oblivious.1 They actually know the roadmap, and they know just how much work is between where the platform is today and where it needs to be for it to be a meaningful contributor to Apple’s bottom line. But they’re there, working on it. I don’t know who told MacRumors what (and their sourcing is just “MacRumors has learned”), but I know for a fact that it is not true that the teams working on the Vision platform have “been redistributed to other teams within Apple.”

It’s a strange thing for MacRumors to state so categorically something I believe has no truth to it whatsoever. And if there is some truth to it, it’s not what the article implies, which is that the whole thing has been shut down, somehow without the world knowing until now. Just two weeks ago John Ternus and Greg Joswiak were interviewed by Mark Spoonauer at Tom’s Guide, and both spoke of a bright future for spatial computing. Joz describing Vision Pro as a product pulled into the present from the future is a good way of emphasizing the yet regarding a product — and category — that’s not there yet. Apple executives know how to give a non-answer answer to a question they don’t want to answer honestly. (Exhibit A: Tim Cook “squashing” rumors that he was about to retire … one month before he announced he was stepping aside as CEO.) The way Ternus and Joz were talking about the platform, and immersive content, this month was not lacking in enthusiasm. It was asking for patience.

It’s certainly possible that this Vision thing ultimately isn’t going to work out and Apple will throw in the towel on it. But that hasn’t happened, and if it does, it’s not going to come out of nowhere as a story on MacRumors for the people in VPG working on it. When Apple threw in the towel on Project Titan (the car project) in February 2024, an all-hands was held to break the news, led by then-COO Jeff Williams and Titan project lead Kevin Lynch. The team didn’t learn it from a fucking leak.

No one on the planet is more keenly aware of how few people own a Vision Pro than the people who work on the Vision platform. If you work at Apple and work on the iPhone, and you meet someone who asks what you do, and you tell them you work on the iPhone at Apple, there’s a good chance they’ll say “Hey, I have an iPhone!” and they’ll take it out of their pocket to show you. If you work on the Mac, you’ll meet a lot of people who will say “Hey, I’ve been a Mac user for a long time!” Tell people you work on Vision Pro, and the best answer you’re likely to get is “Oh, nice, uh, I think I’ve heard about that.“ ↩︎

Happy customers snap up Macs so fast that even Apple’s manufacturing expertise can’t keep up. Here’s what’s behind Mac supply complaints.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Learn what Tim Cook advised John Ternus as he prepares to take over as Apple CEO this fall. It’s all about following Apple’s “North Star.”

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Apple’s spending on research and development hit an all-time high in the company’s latest quarterly results, reflecting an industry-wide continued push into AI development. Here are the details.

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Apple CEO Tim Cook said today that the company is seeking refunds for duties it paid under tariffs Donald Trump announced last year, which the Supreme Court recently ruled unconstitutional. Here are the details.

more…

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 Bitwarden: Make your life easier with Bitwarden, featuring a secure, open source password manager with end-to-end encryption and seamless autofill across all your devices.

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Incoming Apple CEO John Ternus promises he will be just as much of a profit-focused bean counter as his predecessor, current CEO Tim Cook. “As you know, one of the hallmarks of Tim’s tenure has been a deep thoughtfulness, deliberateness and discipline when it comes to the financial decision-making of the company,” Ternus said Thursday […]

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Apple today provided its guidance for the June quarter of fiscal 2026, outlining expectations for revenue growth, margins, and key business trends amid the ongoing memory shortage. Here are the details.

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On its quarterly earnings call today, Apple CEO Tim Cook addressed the ongoing supply shortages for Apple’s pro desktop Macs. Many configurations of Mac mini and Mac Studio are completely out of stock at Apple Stores online.

Cook said customer interest in agentic AI use cases (like OpenClaw) is driving Mac mini and Mac Studio demand beyond what Apple predicted. Due to the ongoing industry constraints for advanced nodes and memory components, the company expects the supply shortages for these Macs to continue for the next several months.

more…

ChatGPT remains the top downloaded app on the App Store, and it sounds like OpenAI will launch a new iPhone app soon.

more…

Apple’s Q2 2026 earnings call included a notable addition this time around, as incoming CEO John Ternus joined the discussion alongside current CEO Tim Cook and CFO Kevan Parekh. Here are the details.

more…

If you thought Apple would show any signs of slowing down following its record-breaking Q1 results, you’d be mistaken. Apple on Thursday announced its Q2 earnings results, and they’re just as glittery as last quarter, with record revenue of $111.2 billion and strong showings for the iPhone and Mac.

Every category of Apple product saw growth over the year-ago quarter, with the iPhone hitting nearly $57 billion in sales, a whopping 22 percent increase over last year. This quarter saw the launch of the iPhone 17e, but it’s likely the bulk of the revenue is from higher-priced iPhone 17 Pro models.

Additionally, Apple hit another all-time Services high, with revenue of nearly $31 billion. Mac sales also grew from just under $8 billion last year to about $8.4 billion this year. Apple released the MacBook Neo in March and has faced supply constraints ever since its launch, so it likely does not play a significant role in this quarter. Outgoing CEO Tim Cook noted that Apple’s new laptop is “captivating customers all around the world.”

Additionally, Apple’s iPad sales grew to $6.9 billion from $6.4 billion and its Wearables line pulled in $7.9 billion compared to $7.5 billion a year ago. 

During its conference call with investors, Cook addressed the coming CEO turnover to John Ternus, saying there is “no one I trust more on this planet to lead Apple.” John Ternus spoke on the call as well, repeating the oft-heard phrase that Apple has an “incredible roadmap ahead” and that this is “the most exciting time in my 25 year career at Apple.”

Apple reported another record-breaking quarter of earnings today, and it came with a big announcement about the iPhone 17 lineup: it’s now the company’s most popular model family ever.

more…

Apple revenue reaches a record high for the most-recent March quarter. The iPhone 17 contributed, plus there’s growth all around the company.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Apple just announced its quarterly results, including $56.99 billion in iPhone revenue. This number is slightly below the average of analyst expectations heading into the earnings, but Tim Cook tells Reuters that Apple would have sold more if it had the supply.

Cook said iPhone 17 demand “was off the charts”. He said supply of advanced processor nodes is constrained and “there’s just a little less flexibility in the supply chain at the moment” in terms of getting more parts available.

more…

MacDailyNews presents live notes from Apple’s Q226 Conference Call with analysts starting at 2pm PDT / 5pm EDT today, April 30, 2026.

This stream is best experienced on an iPhone 7 or later, iPad (5th generation or later), or iPod touch (7th generation) using Safari on iOS 12 or later; or a Mac using Safari on macOS Mojave 10.14 or later. Streaming to your TV requires an AirPlay 2–capable device, or via AirPlay to an Apple TV (2nd generation or later) with the latest Apple TV software or tvOS. Other platforms may also be able to access the stream using recent versions of Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge (MSE, H.264, and AAC required).

Apple’s live conference call webcast will begin at 2pm PDT / 5pm EDT here.

Apple today posted record second quarter revenue of $111.2 billion, up a whopping 17% year over year, and quarterly diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.01, up a staggering 22% year over year.

According to LSEG consensus estimates compiled from Wall Street analysts called for Apple to post revenue of $109.5 billion and EPS of $1.95.

Live notes in reverse chronological order:

• Awaiting start of conference call

• Anyone, or any bot, selling AAPL after hours on these results is handing us a discount. Thanks, chumps!

• AAPL @ 4:45:44 PM EDT: $268.41, -2.94, (-1.08%)

• AAPL @ 4:36:10 PM EDT: $271.25, -0.10, (-0.04%)

• AAPL @ 4:28:07 PM EDT: $272.53, +1.18, (+0.43%)

The post MacDailyNews presents live notes from Apple’s Q226 conference call appeared first on MacDailyNews.

Apple just released its earnings report for the second fiscal quarter of 2026. The company reported $111.2 billion in revenue, $29.58 billion in net profit, and $2.01 in earnings per share. Here’s the full breakdown.

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Apple today announced financial results for its fiscal 2026 second quarter ended March 28, 2026. The Company posted quarterly revenue of $111.2 billion, up 17 percent year over year. Diluted earnings per share was $2.01, up 22 percent year over year.

“Today Apple is proud to report our best March quarter ever, with revenue of $111.2 billion and double-digit growth across every geographic segment,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s outgoing CEO, in a statement. “iPhone achieved a March quarter revenue record, fueled by such extraordinary demand for the iPhone 17 lineup. During the quarter, Services achieved yet another all-time record, and we were excited to introduce remarkable new products to our strongest lineup ever. That included the addition of the iPhone 17e and the M4-powered iPad Air, along with the launch of MacBook Neo, which is captivating customers all around the world.”

“Our strong business performance during the March quarter generated over $28 billion in operating cash flow and drove new March quarter records for both operating cash flow and EPS,” said Kevan Parekh, Apple’s CFO, in a stateemnt. “Continued strong customer demand for our products and services once again helped us achieve a new all-time high for our installed base of active devices across all major product categories and geographic segments.”

Net sales by category:

• iPhone: $56.994 billion (vs. $48.841 billion YoY)
• Mac: $8.399 billion (vs. $7.949 billion YoY)
• iPad: $6.914 billion (vs. $7.522 billion YoY)
• Wearables, Home and Accessories: $7.901 billion (vs. $7.522 billion YoY)
• Services: $30.976 billion (vs> $26.645 billion YoY)

Net sales by reportable segment:

• Americas: $45.093 billion (vs. $40.315 billion YoY)
• Europe: $28.055 billion (vs. $24,454 billion YoY)
• Greater China: $20.497 billion (vs. $16.002 billion YoY)
• Japan: $8.401 billion (vs. $7.298 billion YoY)
• Rest of Asia Pacific: $9.138 billion (vs. $7.290 billion YoY)

Apple’s board of directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.27 per share of the Company’s common stock, an increase of 4 percent. The dividend is payable on May 14, 2026, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 11, 2026. The board of directors has also authorized an additional program to repurchase up to $100 billion of the Company’s common stock.

Apple will provide live streaming of its Q2 2026 financial results conference call beginning at 2:00 p.m. PT on April 30, 2026, at apple.com/investor/earnings-call. The webcast will be available for replay for approximately two weeks thereafter.

According to consensus estimates tracked by FactSet, prior to earnings, Apple was expected to post adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.95 and revenue was projected at $109.5 billion. Analyst forecast iPhone revenue of $56.5 billion and Mac sales were expected to come in at $8.12 billion. Greater China was projected at $19 billion.
‎
MacDailyNews Take: Slight iPhone miss, but overall:

MacDailyNews Note: We’ll have live notes from Apple’s conference call starting at 2:00 p.m. PDT / 5:00 p.m. EDT here.

‎
Please help support MacDailyNews — and enjoy subscriber-only articles, comments, chat, and more — by subscribing to our Substack: macdailynews.substack.com. Thank you!

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The post Apple beats second quarter results with record quarterly revenue of $111.2 billion appeared first on MacDailyNews.

Benjamin and Chance discuss whether bringing visual intelligence inside the Camera app is a good idea, as rumored for iOS 27 by Bloomberg. Also, Tim Cook shares his personal highs and lows across his career, Mayo’s iPhone refuses to turn on after running out of battery, and the App Store launches a new monthly payments subscription option.

And in Happy Hour Plus, Chance kits out his whole house with HomeKit lights … so now here’s what we want next from Apple Home. Subscribe at 9to5mac.com/join.

Sponsored by Square: Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/happyhour.

Sponsored by Shopify: See less carts go abandoned and more sales. Sign up for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/happyhour.

Sponsored by Cash App: Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/i4d1b1x2 #CashAppPod

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Later today, Apple will release its Q2 2026 earnings, where component shortages, the iPhone 17 line’s ongoing success, and low Mac availability are expected to play a bit part. Here’s how you can listen in live.

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Later today, Apple will release its Q2 2026 earnings, where component shortages, the iPhone 17 line’s ongoing success, and low Mac availability are expected to play a bit part. Here’s how you can listen in live.

more…

In a sharpening dispute that highlights ongoing tensions between Big Tech and regulators in one of its fastest-growing markets, Apple has accused India’s Competition Commission of India (CCI) of exceeding its powers and attempting to undermine judicial authority.

According to a Reuters exclusive published today, Apple filed a non-public submission with the Delhi High Court on April 24, urging urgent intervention to halt proceedings in an antitrust case centered on the iPhone apps market.

The U.S. tech giant argues that the CCI should not proceed with demands for detailed financial information — data typically used to calculate potential penalties — while Apple is actively challenging the underlying Indian law governing such fines in court. Apple has warned that penalties in the case could theoretically reach as high as $38 billion.

“The commission’s decision to schedule a final hearing represents an escalation in its efforts to usurp the Hon’ble Court’s authority,” Apple stated in the filing, requesting the court hear the matter as soon as May 15.

The CCI had given Apple an ultimatum earlier this month and set a final hearing for May 21 after the company withheld the requested financial data. The regulator’s investigation previously concluded that Apple abused its dominant position in the apps market.

Apple maintains it is a relatively small player in India compared to Google’s Android ecosystem and has resisted providing the information on the grounds that the penalty framework itself is under legal challenge.

India remains a critical growth market for Apple. iPhone market share has more than doubled to around 9% in recent years, and the country is a key focus for the company’s expansion in emerging markets.

MacDailyNews Take: AGgain, India risks squandering a golden growth opportunity with Apple over a regulatory trifle in which the Cupertino company has done absolutely nothing wrong.

Apple in India isn’t a dominant behemoth crushing competition, it’s a company successfully earning its way in one of the world’s toughest, most price-sensitive markets by offering superior products that Indian consumers increasingly want.

Forcing changes to a proven, secure App Store model that benefits users with privacy, security, and a consistent high-quality experience — while enabling millions of developers worldwide to build thriving businesses — over complaints that largely echo global gripes from a few large players is yet another regulatory overreach. Apple has cooperated extensively is currently a small participant in India with no abusive dominance.

India has everything to gain by fostering an environment where innovative companies like Apple can continue investing, creating jobs, expanding retail presence, and driving premium economic activity. Alienating one of the world’s most successful tech firms over what amounts to standard platform policies that have fueled an entire ecosystem risks sending exactly the wrong signal to global investors and innovators.

‎
Please help support MacDailyNews — and enjoy subscriber-only articles, comments, chat, and more — by subscribing to our Substack: macdailynews.substack.com. Thank you!

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The post Apple escalates battle with India’s CCI, claims antitrust body is usurping court authority appeared first on MacDailyNews.

iOS 26.4 added brand new widgets for the iPhone’s Home Screen, but you might not know that fairly recently, Apple also upgraded its popular Photos widget in two ways.

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Apple has just released brand new firmware for users of AirPods Pro 3. Here are the details.

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Apple TV is assembling a packed summer lineup, with beloved comedies like Ted Lasso and Trying returning, plus several fan-favorite sci-fi series too. Here are three returning sci-fi series hitting Apple TV soon.

more…

Satellite connectivity in smartphones is entering a critical growth phase, with Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN)-capable devices projected to account for 46% of global smartphone shipments by 2030, according to Counterpoint Research’s latest Smartphone Satellite Connection Report. Proprietary solutions will drive the market in the near term as 3GPP NTN faces challenges around chipset readiness, operator certification and service maturity.

Apple was the first mainstream smartphone brand to offer satellite connectivity by partnering with Globalstar for the iPhone 14 in 2022. The recent acquisition of Globalstar by Amazon provides immediate scale and opens up a new revenue stream for Amazon around connectivity-as-a-service. Huawei was the second player to bring satellite connectivity to smartphones in 2023, and now more than 10 brands are offering it in smartphones.

Source: Counterpoint Research Global Satellite Smartphone Shipment Tracker, April 2026

Commenting on the smartphone OEM dynamics, Principal Analyst Soumen Mandal said in a statement, “Apple remains the leading smartphone OEM in terms of NTN-capable smartphone shipments, while Samsung leads the Android ecosystem. Similar to Apple, Huawei and Google follow the proprietary NTN approach. Other Android players, including Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO, HONOR and vivo, have aligned with 3GPP NTN to enable broader scalability and interoperability.”

The satellite smartphone market is mostly driven by the premium segment, but the lack of killer use cases is limiting mass adoption. 3GPP Release 17-based use cases are limited to SOS and messaging. While 3GPP Release 18 will help further adoption across brands in the premium segment, mass adoption in the mid-price segment is expected only with Release 19.

Commenting on the satellite smartphone SoC market competitive landscape, Senior Analyst Shivani Parashar said in a statement, “Qualcomm has been at the forefront among Android chipset players in enabling satellite connectivity through its Snapdragon X80 and X85 modems, followed by Huawei, Google and Samsung. MediaTek is also advancing NTN integration through its MT6825 5G SoC. More participation from chipset players will increase competition while potentially helping scalability.”

The partnerships entered into by North American telecom players, such as T-Mobile with SpaceX, AT&T with AST Mobile and Rogers with SpaceX, along with Apple’s tie-up with Globalstar, have helped bring satellite connectivity to smartphones, making North America an early leader in the field. Though telecom operators in other regions, like Europe and China, are not rushing to offer satellite connectivity, satellite operators are increasing capacity to cater to the mass market.

Commenting on the satellite smartphone market outlook, Research Vice President Peter Richardson said in a statement, “Nearly one in two smartphones is expected to support satellite connectivity by 2030. Apple, Google and Samsung will lead in terms of overall penetration, but Android brands targeting the entry and mid-price segments will see less penetration. Satellite offerings by more Android players and telecom operators beyond developed markets will play a key role in accelerating global adoption.”

The satellite smartphone connectivity space is expected to create opportunities across the entire ecosystem, including smartphone OEMs, SoC vendors, component players, telecom operators and satellite operators. Beyond this, it will also unlock new service models and bundled offerings, where companies like Amazon could integrate satellite connectivity into platforms such as Amazon Prime to enhance the overall consumer experience. However, the pace of growth will depend on the collaboration of ecosystem players to solve issues such as design and cost constraints, limited use cases, regulatory complexities and network immaturity, Counterpoint says.

MacDailyNews Take: Even though Apple picked the wrong satellite communications partner, the strength of iPhone and the first-mover advantage spell total domination.

iPhone’s ecosystem power, software polish, and sheer volume turn even a “suboptimal” satellite tie-up into market-crushing dominance. With Amazon now stepping in via Globalstar, Apple’s moat will only widen.

Never bet against the iPhone. Strength, timing, and execution beat “perfect” partnerships every single time.

See also:
• If Tim Cook put Apple users ahead of his Elon Musk grudge, Apple users would have superior satellite connectivity and better AI today – April 15, 2026
• Amazon to acquire Globalstar for $11.57 billion in attempt to challenge Starlink; Apple owns approximately 20% of Globalstar – April 14, 2026
• As Elon Musk’s SpaceX delivers real satellite connectivity to smartphones, Apple might be having second thoughts about propping up Globalstar – October 6, 2025

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Please help support MacDailyNews — and enjoy subscriber-only articles, comments, chat, and more — by subscribing to our Substack: macdailynews.substack.com. Thank you!

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The post Apple iPhone dominates satellite-connected smartphone market with 71.6 percent share appeared first on MacDailyNews.

It’s a big weekend in America for Apple and racing. F1 returns to the U.S. with the Miami Grand Prix happening Sunday on Apple TV.

Meanwhile, Apple and Porsche have collaborated on an anniversary race car design that will be on the track in California, also on May 3.

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First unveiled at CES 2025 over a year ago, MOFT’s beloved MagSafe wallet with kickstand now comes with a much needed feature: Find My integration. After loads of delays, the product is now finally available for purchase.

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Apple AirTags (1st Gen)

View Deal

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It was five years ago when Apple first released its tiny AirTag tracker, and even though there’s a new model, it hasn’t changed much. So the original model is still great, especially when you can get a 4-pack for just $57. That’s an incredible $42 off the original MSRP, and just $14.25 per tracker, the best price we’ve ever seen. And since the sale is at Woot, your Amazon Prime perks will be useful here too, including free shipping.

As you know, AirTags are super useful to have, especially hooked up with your keys or bag, so you don’t have to spend forever searching for them in the morning. Just pop open the Find My app and make it ping. When the tag isn’t nearby, you’ll still be able to track it down with Apple’s global Find My network that uses other iPhones to pinpoint its location. With millions of connected Apple devices, you’re certainly going to find its location in seconds.

The AirTags are durable and water-resistant, so they’re good to use in all sorts of conditions. The batteries will last for over a year, and they’re easy to swap out, too, so you can use them for a very long time.

But act fast, because this Woot deal won’t last forever. Even if they don’t sell out, the timer runs out Friday at midnight, so you’d better hurry up and grab a pack because we might never see a discount this good again.

OpenAI’s GPT-5.5 upgrade to ChatGPT and Codex appears to be going smoothly, especially compared to the rockier GPT-5.0 release last August.

It turns out OpenAI got ahead of one issue that was brewing before the release of GPT-5.5 models: a goblin fixation.

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Apple TV has delivered another standout original with “Widow’s Bay,” the new horror-comedy series starring Matthew Rhys as a determined mayor trying to transform a cursed New England island into a tourist hotspot. Created by Katie Dippold and featuring direction from Hiro Murai and others, the show blends quirky small-town charm with genuine scares and supernatural folklore. Early reviews are overwhelmingly positive, hailing it as a fresh, tonally ambitious gem that’s unlike anything else on television right now.

Critics praise the series for its perfect balance of laughs and chills, strong ensemble performances, and inventive storytelling that mixes episodic horror tales with an overarching mystery. With a Metacritic score in the high 70s and strong audience buzz, Widow’s Bay is shaping up to be one of 2026’s must-watch Apple TV offerings.

Here’s what the reviewers are saying:

“The wonderfully demented ‘Widow’s Bay’ plays out almost like an anthology of Stephen King short stories, shuffling supernatural urban legends in a small New England community with equal parts humor and horror. It is truly unlike anything else on TV, a wild swing of tonal shifts that works because it commits so fully to both halves of the equation.”

— Brian Tallerico, RogerEbert.com

“Mare of Easttown meets Schitt’s Creek in this rich, wonderful and laugh-out-loud series, in which a put-upon mayor tries to turn a cursed New England island into a tourist hotspot… In short, “Widow’s Bay” is rich and wonderful. Grownup, funny, scary, true.”

— The Guardian

“‘Widow’s Bay’ Review: Matthew Rhys’ Inspired Island-Bound Horror-Comedy Is a Wicked Treat.”

— Ben Travers, IndieWire

“In a TV landscape dotted with quirky little hamlets, it’s the best reason to drop in on “Widow’s Bay,” Apple’s uneven but intriguing mashup of Pawnee-style coziness and Derry-esque chills… they do make “Widow’s Bay” a destination worth visiting — perhaps even again and again, for years and years to come.”

— Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter

“Apple TV’s delightfully oddball horror-comedy may have a few flaws, but it’s like almost nothing else on TV at the moment.”

— Den Of Geek

Reviewers highlight standout performances from Rhys, Kate O’Flynn, Stephen Root, and the ensemble, along with the show’s confident navigation of horror tropes, character-driven comedy, and atmospheric island setting. While a few note minor pacing issues, the consensus is clear: Apple TV’s “Widow’s Bay” is a fresh, addictive, and highly entertaining series.

MacDailyNews Take: The first episodes are streaming now on Apple TV, with new installments dropping weekly. If you’re in the mood for something spooky, funny, and utterly original, clear your schedule and ferry over to “Widow’s Bay” — you won’t regret it.

MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.

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A redesigned iPhone app cleans up navigation and adds vertical video discovery. But will it crash and burn like Netflix’s Apple TV app?

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Apple’s Health app got a pair of welcome improvements in iOS 26.4, and rumors indicate Apple has major upgrades coming soon in iOS 27.

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The AirPods Pro 3 deals are flying alongside AirPods 4 from $99, but today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is headlined by some seriously notable M5 MacBook Air deals – Midnight 24GB 15-inch up to $219 off and this new low on the base 15-inch M5 MacBook Air at $170 off. We also have the best clearance prices yet on the M3 iPad Air lineup up to $300 off, Apple’s 24GB/1TB M5 MacBook Pro dropping back to its best Amazon price ever ($250 off launch), and the Titanium Apple Watch Series 11 hitting the Amazon all-time low at up to $160 off today (plus deals from $299). Head below for a closer look at the details.

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Orico USB-C Clamp Hub

View Deal

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If there’s one thing I’m absolutely sure of, it’s that every one of us needs a few extra ports for extra drives and accessories, but even the smallest hubs will take up desk space that no one has to spare. That’s where this clever USB-C Clamp Hub comes in, and it’s on sale for just $15.46 right now.

This tiny little thing is so cool because, thanks to the C-clamp, you can mount it up to the underside of your monitor, for instance. You can, of course, also mount it to the very edge of your desk so it takes up very little of that precious space. This tiny little thing only needs an edge measuring between 0.19 and 1.1 inches and features three USB-A ports and one USB-C port, so you won’t have to worry about taking out a tiny dongle just to be able to use a flash drive.

You won’t even have to worry about setting it up close to your desktop or laptop. This hub doesn’t have a built-in cable like some other models (though it does include a 2-in-1 cable in the box). The USB-C port on the back gives you flexibility to use whatever cable you want, and it also has an optional 5V USB-C port that can keep your connected devices charged.

Go ahead and grab the Orico USB-C Clamp hub for just $15.46 off while this deal’s still live.

CNBC is out with a timely take that could have major implications for investors heading into the traditionally weaker summer months: it may be time to ditch the old “Sell in May and go away” playbook.

In an article published today, “Forget ‘Sell in May.’ Under Trump, market could be poised for summertime gains,” the network argues that the historic seasonal weakness in stocks from May through October could be overridden this year by the tailwinds of a second Trump administration. Instead of the usual summer lull, the market may actually be poised for meaningful summertime gains.

Fred Imbert for CNBC:
‎

The upcoming six-month period has historically been such a bad stretch for the stock market that Wall Street has an adage for it: “Sell in May and go away.” Data compiled by CFRA’s Sam Stovall shows the S & P 500 has averaged a gain of just 2% between April 30 and Oct. 31 going back to 1945. Between Oct. 31 and April 30, the benchmark averages an advance of nearly 7%. In recent years, however, investors who sold in May and went away missed out on sharp advances…

Stocks have also performed well during this period under President Donald Trump. “During Trump Presidency Years, the S & P 500 has tended to carve out a spring bottom in late March to early April before staging meaningful advances into year-end,” Jeff Hirsch, editor of the Stock Trader’s Almanac, said in an email earlier this week. “S & P 500′s low close was March 30. The two-week U.S.-Iran ceasefire has held — and despite weekend peace talks ending without a deal, a new round of in-person negotiations is in the works this week. So far, 2026 is tracking the Trump Presidency seasonal pattern closely,” he said.

With Trump back in the White House, investors appear to be pricing in a more supportive backdrop for corporate earnings and risk assets. The article highlights how these factors could sustain momentum through the summer rather than letting the usual seasonal headwinds take over. While the piece stops short of guaranteeing gains, it makes a compelling case that the old calendar-based strategy may be outdated in the current political and economic climate.

This view aligns with broader market chatter we’ve seen in recent days. Other analysts have also begun questioning whether the traditional May-October weakness will materialize, especially after stocks have already shown resilience following earlier volatility tied to geopolitical events and tariff concerns.

For Apple investors and the broader tech sector — which has been a key driver of market performance — the message is potentially bullish. Stronger overall market sentiment and pro-growth policies tend to lift high-valuation growth stocks like AAPL, especially if consumer and enterprise spending holds up or improves under the new administration.

Of course, nothing is certain in the markets. Tariff negotiations, inflation data, Federal Reserve moves, and any fresh geopolitical developments could still introduce volatility. But the CNBC analysis offers a refreshing counterpoint to the usual summer skepticism and gives investors a reason to stay engaged rather than automatically heading for the exits.
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MacDailyNews Take: If the current Trump-era policy tailwinds continue to materialize as many analysts expect, “Sell in May” could turn out to be the wrong move this year. Summer trading could be a lot more interesting (and rewarding) than the old adage suggests.

Apple and, indeed, the entire U.S. economy, are primed to roar in 2026! – MacDailyNews, February 20, 2026

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macOS 27 won’t support any Intel Mac. Learn about the impact on the security of older computers, and what you can do to prevent problems.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

On April 30, 2010, the first Wi-Fi + 3G iPads arrived in the hands of U.S. customers. The tablet became Apple’s fastest-selling new product.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

We’re heading into a summer of software unveilings, but Apple has 15+ new hardware products rumored to launch later in the year—including multiple iPads. Here’s the latest on new iPads to expect.

more…

The F1 Miami Grand Prix on Apple TV this weekend brings loads of new content, from live feeds and multiview to new shows and live events.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Apple has essentially abandoned the Apple Vision Pro after the M5 refresh failed to spark renewed interest in the device, MacRumors reports. The company updated the headset in October 2025 with a faster M5 chip and a more comfortable headband, but made no other hardware changes—and consumers still weren’t interested.

Juli Clover for MacRumors:
‎

The Vision Pro has been criticized for its high price tag and its uncomfortable weight. The device is over 1.3 pounds, and even with the more comfortable Dual Knit Band that Apple added to redistribute weight, it continues to be hard to wear for long periods of time.

The Vision Pro has been unpopular since it first launched, and Apple only sold around 600,000 units in total. Insider sources told MacRumors that Apple has received an unusually high percentage of returns, far exceeding any other modern Apple product.

Apple has apparently stopped work on the Vision Pro and the Vision Pro team has been redistributed to other teams within Apple. Some former Vision Pro team members are working on Siri, which is not a surprise as Vision Pro chief Mike Rockwell has been leading the Siri team since March 2025.

If Apple finds a way to create a much cheaper, more comfortable VR headset in the future, the Vision Pro line could be revived, but right now, the company has no plans to launch a new model. Apple has not discontinued the Vision Pro and is continuing to sell the M5 model.

The other factors are that Mike Rockwell, who created the Vision Pro, is weighing his future and that new CEO John Ternus has long been against the Vision Pro as a product. He killed the cheaper/lighter revamp last year and the Mac AR display glasses. https://t.co/r7QyDhkFbL https://t.co/3Hc4AyQI4M

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) April 29, 2026

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MacDailyNews Take: Shocker.

[This] is exactly what you’d expect to occur when a product is released too early to average users… Apple Vision Pro is a devkit for developers, not for average users, and should have been released as a devkit for developers. – MacDailyNews, March 26, 2024

As we wrote on March 22nd:

There are a lot of people inside and outside of Apple who think the company should have waited on the Vision Pro, but it’s fairly easy today to see why Tim Cook released this beta (alpha?) devkit: He likely knew last year, or had a strong inkling, that Project Titan was a goner and there wasn’t much excitement in Apple’s pipeline. He’d need something to point to as “innovation” while he continued on his seemingly unending quest to iterate and monetize products invented by Steve Jobs’ Apple (a very different place) while continuing Apple’s retail store buildout. He also needed something to energize developers and, who knows, they might come up with a killer visionOS app while Apple toils on the long road to real lightweight spatial computing glasses and beyond.

More importantly, Apple last year had already come to the sad realization that they’d missed the generative artificial intelligence revolution and would need a distraction while they feverishly scrambled to catch up (the fruits of which — alongside what sound like disappointing partnerships which hopefully, somehow, preserve user privacy — we’ll hopefully begin to see at WWDC this June).

You have to feel for Cook. After a decade plus of being able to iterate and monetize Jobs’ inspired products and services and continue adding retail stores around the world to spectacular effect, and being lauded for it, he now finds himself in a place that requires actual vision to be able to see which path to take. And he’s not the guy. Even the guy who put him in the position knew it.

Tim’s not a product person, per se. – Steve Jobs

See also:
• Contrary to popular belief, Steve Jobs knew about Apple Watch – February 13, 2023
• Work on Apple Vision Pro began under Steve Jobs – August 23, 2023

Beyond the fact that Cook can’t even execute a compelling live keynote address, his big send off, the “Apple Car,” [the idea of which was also germinated under Jobs] fizzled in ignominious failure.

See also:
• Scrapped Apple Car ‘a massive disappointment that will alter the course of the company’s history, perhaps for decades to come’ – Gurman – March 11, 2024
• Apple employees referred to doomed Apple Car project as ‘The Titanic Disaster’ – February 29, 2024

So, despite myriad misgivings and protestations inside Apple, Cook pulled the trigger early on the Vision Pro. He had to have something to point to that would buy him some time. Even Apple’s rubber-stamping board of lackeys would wake up and start asking questions otherwise.

While Cook is hemming and hawing when faced with shareholders (virtually, of course, never again in person for as long as Cook remains), Apple is currently in scramble mode trying to catch up to rivals in generative AI, a technology the company seems to have completely missed while focusing instead on the not-ready-for-primetime Apple Vision Pro, visionOS, its now-canceled decade-long multi-billion-dollar electric vehicle boondoggle, replacing leather in iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands with overpriced junk in a quest to “save the planet,” forcing employees to endure a constant barrage of time-wasting zero-productivity DEI sessions, and myriad other various and sundry “initiatives” which Cook deems of import. – MacDailyNews, February 28, 2024

When you lose your visionary CEO and replace him with a caretaker CEO, this is the type of aimless, late, bureaucratic dithering that ensues. – MacDailyNews, November 21, 2017

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Please help support MacDailyNews — and enjoy subscriber-only articles, comments, chat, and more — by subscribing to our Substack: macdailynews.substack.com. Thank you!

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Our hands-on review reveals that DwarfLab’s Dwarf Mini smart telescope works with your iPhone to take amazing pictures of the stars.

(via Cult of Mac – Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

Apple has made some dubious design decisions over the past 15 years, from FineWoven to the AirPods Max Smart Case. We hope that trend is about to change, under the company’s new perfectionist CEO, but even the current management is too smart to drop MagSafe from the iPhone line, as claimed by a new report.

The Weibo leaker Instant Digital, who posts a lot but doesn’t have an especially strong track record of accurate predictions, claimed earlier this week that Apple has been debating whether to maintain MagSafe as a standard feature on the iPhone. “When MagSafe was first introduced, the internal stance was very aggressive,” the leaker adds. “There were even plans to include it as a standard feature on iPads, which I mentioned before, but ultimately didn’t happen. Now they’re starting to waver.”

The rationale behind this debate, Instant Digital claims, is the “sacrifice” involved in building MagSafe into each device. And it’s undoubtedly the case that MagSafe imposes a burden on phone designers: it requires the inclusion of a ring of magnets as well as the necessary inductive charging coils. Apple could make its iPhone thinner and lighter if it were able to drop MagSafe, and early prototypes suggest that the foldable iPhone Ultra may not get the feature. It’s notable, however, that the super-thin iPhone Air did get MagSafe, so it’s not like this is an insurmountable problem.

The iPhone 17e gained MagSafe this year.

David Price / Foundry

If true, however, the iPhone Ultra won’t be the first model in recent years to miss out on MagSafe. The iPhone 16e suffered from the same omission, although it isn’t clear whether this decision was made in order to cut costs, help with design/manufacturing processes, encourage upsell to costlier alternatives, or (the official reasoning) because target buyers simply didn’t want it. It’s worth pointing out that the iPhone 17e gained MagSafe, albeit a slower version than that seen on other contemporary iPhones, and this upgrade was a major factor in that device getting a higher review score than its predecessor.

As I’ve explained elsewhere, MagSafe is a transformative feature. Before it came along, the options for iPhone owners were using a cable (fiddly, particularly when the cable inevitably slips down behind the nightstand) or non-magnetic wireless charging (also fiddly, and prone to leaving you with a dead phone in the morning because it got nudged off the sweet spot). We still have wired charging for moments where speed is the priority, but for all other times, MagSafe is the most convenient and frictionless way to perform a much-repeated task. Going back to the pre-MagSafe world while reviewing the iPhone 16e was far more annoying and inconvenient than I ever would have expected.

With this in mind, I’d be very surprised if Apple’s supposed debate about the future of MagSafe led to terminal action. Apple (as well as the rest of the smartphone world) knows MagSafe is a winner, and as Instant Digital acknowledges, the ecosystem of licensed MagSafe-ready accessories is itself a non-trivial source of revenue. That doesn’t mean there won’t be exceptions to the rule: the company tried to live without the tech on the 16e, for example, and it seems likely we’ll see something similar on the first-gen iPhone Ultra. But the standard, surely, will be to include MagSafe, because it’s too good to die and too important to limit to the Pro models only.