Firehose – News, Alerts, Docs
- Wednesday January 07
- 34 minutes agoI switched to SwiftUI. Why did no one tell me sooner?
I’m just a regular iOS dev. I’ve been building apps for a while, mostly UIKit, nothing flashy. A few months ago, someone on Reddit suggested that I “start moving to SwiftUI.” The reason wasn’t technical. It was basically: Apple says it’s ready Blog posts say it’s faster UIKit is “old” I tried to push back […]34 minutes agoLogitech mice stop working on Macs for an embarrassing reason, require manual fix
If the Logitech mouse you use with your Mac has stopped working properly, it’s not just you – and the problem has occurred for a very embarrassing reason. The problem means the app cannot even be automatically updated to resolve the issue. Instead, you’ll have to manually install a patch … more…43 minutes agoLogitech Blames 'Inexcusable Mistake' After Certificate Expiry Breaks macOS Apps
Logitech users on macOS found themselves locked out of their mouse customizations yesterday after the company let a security certificate expire, breaking both its Logi Options+ and G HUB configuration apps. Logitech devices like its MX Master series mice and MX Keys keyboards stopped working properly as a result of the oversight, with users unable to access their custom scrolling setup, button mappings, and gestures. It wasn't long before the Logitech subreddit was awash with frustrated reports as people discovered their configured peripherals had suddenly reverted to default settings. The Developer ID certificate is the digital signature macOS uses to verify legitimate software. When Logitech allowed its certificate to lapse, the company's apps lost verified authenticity. As such, macOS refused to run them, in some cases leading to an endless boot loop. Logitech has since released a patch for macOS 26 Tahoe, macOS 15 Sequoia, macOS 14 Sonoma, and macOS 13 Ventura that resolves the issue. However, users need to download and install it themselves, since the certificate expiry also prevented the apps' built-in updaters from working. Older macOS versions will get a fix "at a later time," said Logitech in a support page acknowledging the issue. On a positive note, it seems user settings survived the blunder, with Logitech promising that profiles and customizations remain intact after manual patching is completed. "We dropped the ball here. This is an inexcusable mistake," Logitech spokesperson ATXsantucci admitted on Reddit. "We're extremely sorry for the inconvenience caused." (Thanks, Brad!)Tag: LogitechThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums50 minutes agoThe best Showstoppers devices spotted at CES 2026
A visit to Showstoppers at CES 2026 provided an opportunity to try out the Clicks MagSafe-compatible keyboard, as well as a new Gamesir controller and a connected bird feeder.Fender products at Showstoppers at CES 2026During CES, AppleInsider takes time to check out the sub-events happening around the tradeshow. After visiting CES Unveiled and Pepcom, the first day of CES 2026 saw us return to another mainstay event, Showstoppers.This is what we saw there. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums1 hour agoA hard truth from years of indie Apple dev
After years of Apple development and finally reaching a stable, good-enough income as an indie, this is the biggest thing I’ve learned: Only complex, out of the ordinary apps make real money, and they have to be excellent. Simple apps turn into a race to the bottom. If something is easy to build, it’s easy […]1 hour agoLeaker suggests future iPhones could get multispectral cameras
Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station suggests that future iPhones may get multispectral camera sensors. While this could, in theory, provide improved color accuracy and better low-light performance, we shouldn’t get overly excited. The technology has already been seen in a smartphone, but the results weren’t particularly impressive and the technology is mostly used in military and industrial cameras … more…1 hour agoAmazon Brings Alexa+ to the Web as AI Competition Heats Up
Amazon is bringing Alexa+ to the web, expanding its AI assistant beyond devices as it moves toward agentic workflows and direct competition with ChatGPT and Google Gemini. The post appeared first on TechNewsWorld.1 hour agoFuture iPhones may utilize multi-spectral cameras for Apple Intelligence
A new rumor says that Apple is exploring the use of multi-spectral camera technology, which could be a boon for iPhone photography but may also aid Visual Intelligence.Apple is looking to multi-spectral technology for future iPhone camerasThe Visual Intelligence feature in Apple Intelligence keeps improving, whether it's describing what the camera is showing, or it's working from screengrab images. Leaker Digital Chat Station claims that Apple is looking to eventually add multi-spectral camera systems, and one benefit of this would be for Visual Intelligence.Multi-spectral imaging captures image data across different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. All iPhone cameras to date have focused on the red, green, and blue (RGB) elements visible to the human eye. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:32 pmRoblox requiring 9yo kids to submit a video selfie for age verification [U: Global]
Roblox, one of the most popular kids’ apps in the world, is now requiring children as young as nine years old to submit a video selfie for age verification. Update: Following a partial launch in November of last year, the requirement is now being rolled out globally. The company says you will see the update within the next week. While the developer is doing this for good reasons, it adds further weight to the argument that Apple and Google, rather than individual app developers, should be responsible for age verification … more…12:28 pmDell, HP, and Lenovo headed in the opposite direction to Apple with new laptop designs
It’s been over a year since we first heard about Apple’s plans for a total redesign of the MacBook Pro, and we’re expecting to see the results later this year. While the Cupertino company is predictably expected to head even further down the path of thinner and sleeker laptops, it’s interesting to note that several PC brands are headed in the opposite direction … more…12:16 pmDownloads but no Sales from Germany
I’m genuinely puzzled by something I’d love input on especially from anyone from Germany. Germany is my #2 market in terms of downloads in the past 90 days (62 downloads – +50%), yet i have gotten ZERO sales from there in the same time frame in fact the last time i had a purchase from […]12:10 pmTesting for rumored 200MP iPhone camera may not have started yet
Following reports of Apple looking to include a 200MP camera in the iPhone in 2028, a leaker unsurprisingly says there's no prototype being tested yet.The rear cameras of a Pro-tier iPhoneThe most recent of multiple reports about Apple adding a 200MP camera to the iPhone, claimed that it will first appear in a 2028 iPhone. Now regular leaker Digital Chat Station has said on Weibo that Apple is not even at the prototype stage yet.That seems unsurprising given how far off a September 2028 launch is. It's also not startling that the leaker further says Apple's engineers are instead focused on developing the 48MP camera expected in the 2026 iPhone range. Rumor Score: 🤯 Likely Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:03 pmBest Mac mini deals and discounts right now
Macworld Best Mac mini deals: January 2026 These are the recommendations we would confidently give to our own friends and family. They are based on the best prices right now at hundreds of resellers of Apple products. Today’s best Mac mini deals: U.S. Amazon, M4 Mac mini (256GB): $539 ($60 off, MSRP $599) Amazon, M4 Mac mini (24GB RAM, 512GB): $909 ($90 off, MSRP $999) Apple Refurbished, M4 Pro Mac mini (24GB RAM, 512GB): $1,189 ($210 off, MSRP $1,399) Amazon, M4 iMac (8-core GPU, 256GB): $1,149 ($150 off, MSRP $1,299) See more U.S. Mac mini deals below… Today’s best Mac mini deals: U.K. Apple Refurbished, M4 Mac mini, 256GB/16GB RAM, £509 (£90 off, RRP £599) Amazon, M4 Mac mini, 512GB/16GB RAM, £729 (£70 off, RRP £799) Amazon, M4 Mac mini, 512GB/24GB RAM, £949 (£50 off, RRP £999) Amazon, M4 Pro Mac mini, 512GB/24GB RAM, £1,269 (£130 off, RRP £1,399) Apple Refurbished, Mac mini M4 Pro, £1,189 (£210 off, RRP £1,399) KRCS, M4 iMac (8-core GPU, 256GB), £1,234 (£65 off, RRP £1,299) See more U.K. Mac mini deals below… Last updated January 7, 2025 The Mac mini is the cheapest Mac you can buy, but you can get one for less than Apple sells it for if you shop at the various Apple certified resellers that sell Macs and other Apple products at a discount. Whether it’s the latest Mac mini M4, the excellent Mac mini M4 Pro, or an older Mac mini model that you want to find on sale, in this article you will find the best prices right now and advice on whether now is a good time to buy and which model offers the best value for money. How we find the best Mac mini deals To select the best Mac mini deals, our editors employ a comprehensive, year-round strategy that combines continuous market monitoring with expert evaluation. Here’s why you can trust the deals Macworld identifies: We check top resellers in the U.S. and the U.K. for the best prices throughout the year, ensuring we always have a finger on the pulse of the best savings. We also check Apple’s refurbished store for even bigger price drops. We use price comparison tools to watch resellers and compare their current discounts so we know who has the best deal right now. We hand-pick deals based on the product’s long-term price history and our own in-depth reviews. We consider the product’s release cycle and whether a significant update is due soon. We also advise on whether a shopping event is likely to happen soon in which you might get an even better deal, or if you might be able to qualify for specific deals. We regularly check prices, but it’s worth checking various retailers in the price comparison tables below, as prices can fluctuate daily. If you want to buy a particular model you will find the best prices right now in the tables below. We also have a guide to the best Apple deals right now on all Apple products, including MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Is now a good time to buy a new Mac mini? Simon Jary / Foundry The current models, featuring the M4 and M4 Pro chips, were released in October 2024. This was a significant update that included a new, more compact design that measures just 5 by 5 inches. The base unified memory (RAM) was upgraded to 16GB, a welcome upgrade from the previous generation’s 8GB. More than a year on, this is still an excellent Mac and a solid investment. While an update to the M5 chips is expected, this is not likely to happen until the spring or summer of 2026. Read more here: What we know about the upcoming Mac mini M5 update. The current discounts right now are ok, though not as large as they were over Black Friday and Cyber Monday. In fact, our advice is to look to the Apple Refurbished Store for bigger savings. The next sale event isn’t expected until the spring of 2026, when Amazon might hold the Spring Deal Days event. After that you can expect to see larger discounts at Amazon’s Prime Days in July and October. Does Apple have sales? The deals rarely come from Apple itself. While Apple will sometimes offer vouchers as an incentive to buy a new Mac (that’s Apple’s usual Black Friday giveaway), the company never discounts prices. Apple does sell refurbished Macs at a lower price though, so that might be something to consider. If you are a student you can take advantage of Apple’s education discounts and save a little money on the full price of Macs (and iPads). And in the summer months Apple gives away Apple Pencils or AirPods with the sale of certain Macs (and iPads) to students in it’s Higher Education offer. Which Mac mini to buy Simon Jary / Foundry The Mac mini lineup offers strong performance across its configurations, making it a great value proposition. M4 Mac mini is a great option for someone looking for a low-cost Mac. Starting at $599/£599, this model is ideal for general use, home offices, and even as a secondary computer integrated into a home entertainment system. It offers the same M4 chip found in more expensive Macs, providing an excellent performance-to-price ratio. The performance and value on offer for just $599/£599 is excellent, but for another $200/£200 you can get twice the storage, which we would recommend if your budget stretches that far. M4 Pro Mac mini is one of our favourite Macs because it It features the same 12-core CPU and 16-core GPU as the M4 Pro MacBook Pro at a significantly lower price point. It is perfect for professionals on a budget and a great choice for demanding tasks like video editing and 3D software. The M4 Pro model provides a powerful and affordable desktop solution. Factors to consider before buying a Mac mini Apple When purchasing a Mac mini, it’s crucial to choose the right specifications, as the unified memory (RAM) and internal storage cannot be upgraded later. Memory (RAM): The base 16GB is sufficient for everyday tasks like browsing and email. However, if your workflow involves demanding applications like editing large videos or training AI models, you should configure your Mac mini with at least 24GB of memory. Storage (SSD): While you can supplement internal storage with external drives, it’s wise to consider your future needs. Apple charges a premium for storage upgrades, so carefully evaluate how much space you’ll require for applications and files. We recommend spending a bit more to get 512GB if you can afford to. Also consider whether iCloud storage might be sufficient for your needs. You could get 2TB iCloud Storage for $9.99/£8.99 a month, for example. Another consideration for all Mac mini models is that you will need to provide your own display, keyboard, and mouse – indeed you will need a wireless or USB-C mouse before you can set the new Mac up – but these can be purchased on a budget too. Take a look at our top recommendations in each category to find one that matches your budget. Best Mac Monitors Best Mac mice Best Mac keyboards Best deals at Apple Refurbished Store One of the best places to look for Mac mini deals all year round is the Apple Refurbished Store. There, you’ll find discounts on Mac mini that have been returned to Apple for various reasons, and then completely revamped for resale. If you buy a refurbished Mac mini from Apple it will come with a one-year warranty so Apple may fix or replace it for free should anything happen to it in that first year. In the U.S.: Right now there is a Mac mini M4 Pro available for $1,189, which is $210 off the usual price of $1,399. Get a refurbished Mac at Apple's refurbished store (U.S.) In the U.K.: You can get a Mac mini M4 Pro for £1,189, £210 off the usual price of £1,399. There’s also £90 off the Mac mini M4, you can get it for £509, rather than £599. Get a refurbished Mac at Apple's refurbished store (U.K.) Best Mac mini prices: Price Comparison tables You can use the best Mac mini price comparison tables below to see the best Mac mini prices available right now at all the stores that sell Apple Macs. Best M4 Mac mini deals The best prices for the Mac mini will appear below. M4 Mac mini, 10-core CPU/10-core GPU, 256GB/16GB RAM, MSRP $599/£599 Retailer Price $539 View Deal $595 View Deal $599 View Deal $599 View Deal $599 View Deal $736.07 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket M4 Mac mini, 10-core CPU/10-core GPU, 512GB/16GB RAM, MSRP $799/£799 Retailer Price $729 View Deal $734.57 View Deal $789 View Deal $799 View Deal $799 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket M4 Mac mini, 10-core CPU/10-core GPU, 512GB/24GB RAM, MSRP $999/£999 Retailer Price $904 View Deal $909 View Deal $909 View Deal $999 View Deal $999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best M4 Pro Mac mini deals M4 Pro Mac mini, 12-core CPU/16-core GPU, 512GB/24GB RAM, MSRP $1,399/£1,399 Retailer Price $1,289 View Deal $1296 View Deal $1399 View Deal $1399 View Deal $1399 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best deals on old Mac mini models If you are on a small budget, you can often find a good deal on the previous generation. Just keep in mind that the older Mac mini had lass RAM as standard – 8GB rather than 16GB. We think that 8GB RAM should be avoided if possible. Where to buy the Mac mini Mac mini buyers in the U.S. can check out the following stores: Apple Amazon Best Buy BH Photo Video Costco If you’re based in the U.K. you can pick up a Mac mini from the following retailers: Apple Amazon Argos Currys John Lewis Very Apple has a number of Apple Premium Resellers in the UK who stock Macs and offer other services: KRCS Insight iStore Select Western Computer Jigsaw You might also be able to trade in your old Mac to get some money off your new purchase. Here’s how to get money off with Apple’s trade-in program. Where to buy refurbished Mac mini models You can get refurbished Macs from the Apple Refurbished store and other suppliers, including the following refurbished resellers listed below: In the U.S.: Apple Amazon Back Market Best Buy Gainsaver OWC Mac Of All Trades Refurb.me In the U.K.: Affordable Mac Apple Amazon BackMarket Hoxton Macs Laptops Direct MacFinder Mac 4 Sale Music Magpie Amazon also has a certified refurbished store for Apple products but we would advise against buying any products that are older than five years – most of the products we see on the Amazon refurbished store are unfortunately very old. Another place to look is BackMarket US and BackMarket UK, which sells refurbished Macs and other Apple products. We also recommend Hoxton Macs in the U.K. Find the latest Apple refurbished deals here. We also have this advice about buying a refurbished Mac.11:54 amPhilips Hue lighting is about to get a lot smarter with SpatialAware
Philips Hue lighting scenes are about to get a lot more sophisticated thanks to an upcoming feature called SpatialAware. Rather than mix scene colors randomly between different lights in a room, the new feature knows where each light is positioned and can use that information to create a much more coherent look … more…11:33 amApple Reportedly Exploring Multispectral Imaging for Future iPhones
Apple is exploring multispectral imaging technology for future iPhone cameras that could improve Visual Intelligence, enhance material detection, and boost image processing, according to a new supply chain rumor out of China. In a post on Weibo, leaker Digital Chat Station said Apple is currently evaluating components related to multispectral imaging within the supply chain, but cautioned that formal testing has not yet begun, suggesting the technology remains at an exploratory stage. Multispectral imaging differs from traditional smartphone photography, which relies solely on standard red, green, and blue light. Instead, the technology captures image data across multiple, distinct wavelength bands, which can add sensitivity to near-infrared or other narrow spectral ranges. This could potentially allow cameras to detect information that is largely invisible to conventional sensors. If adopted in future iPhones, one potential advantage could be improved material and surface differentiation. By analysing how different materials reflect light across wavelengths, the iPhone's camera could more accurately distinguish skin, fabric, vegetation, or reflective surfaces, enabling cleaner subject recognition and more reliable portrait effects. In addition, multispectral data could also improve image processing overall, especially when shooting in mixed lighting environments. It could also theoretically improve Visual Intelligence and Apple's on-device machine learning, leading to better object recognition, scene understanding, and depth estimation. However, adding extra spectral sensitivity would likely require more complex sensor designs, which would surely increase costs and potentially have an impact on internal space constraints. This might be why Apple is reportedly still evaluating the technology, rather than actively testing it in prototypes. Either way, it's not something we should expect in an iPhone soon. In the same Weibo post, Digital Chat Station reiterated that the Main lens on iPhone 18 Pro models will feature a variable aperture, while the telephoto camera will have a larger aperture, but Apple has yet to begin prototyping 200-megapixel cameras for future iPhones.Tag: Digital Chat StationThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums11:30 amCES 2026: The best Mac and iPhone accessories Apple fans need to see
Macworld Every start of the year in Las Vegas, the tech world queues up for monorails, shuttles, and taxis for the opportunity to get a look at what’s on the horizon. CES isn’t just a trade show; it’s a launching pad for the tech community and sets the tone for what’s to come the rest of the year. And even though Apple doesn’t attend, there are lots of accessories and gadgets made just for iPhones and Macs. CES 2026 has the usual crazy stuff on show: smart cat food bowls that monitor your pet’s facial expressions, smart Lego bricks with lighs and sound, robot phones, and the usual array of smart appliances and robot servants. Trying not to be distracted by the AI robots, here are the best new Mac, iPhone, and iPad-friendly accessory products announced at this year’s CES. Aukey MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro – Top-end compact charging cube Auckey Charging your Apple devices is regarded by many as a necessary chore, but not me—I love a new charger. Bear with me. Aukey wowed us last year with its MagFusion range, and its latest MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro looks like it can consolidate most of your power needs into its 3.76 x 3.76 x 3.07 inch (9.6 x 9.6 x 7.8cm) integrated hub stand. The sleek, space-saving yet powerful 5-in-1 desktop charging station has integrated high-output wired charging, Qi2 25W wireless charging, intelligent cable management, and a real-time power display to monitor 200W of simultaneous output. It features four wired outputs, including two retractable 30-inch USB-C cables plus 140W PD 3.1 USB-C and USB-A ports. The Qi2 25W magnetic wireless charging pad can be angled between 0–65 degrees via its aluminum-alloy hinge. Aukey says the MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro will be available in the second quarter of 2026 with an MSRP of $150. Aukey also showed off an upgraded Qi2 25W edition of its MagFusion Z Plus foldable 3-in-1 charger, and the MagFusion Reel 10000, a multifunctional Qi2 25W 10K wireless power bank featuring a retractable USB-C cable, adjustable wireless charging stand, and digital display for power and battery status. Satechi Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock – Mac mini-mimic dock with SSD enclosure Satechi Speaking of compact cubes, if you looked quickly at Satechi’s Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock with SSD Enclosure, you might have thought Apple had introduced a new M5 Mac mini. But no, this is an Apple-inspired docking station for your Mac. As any self-respecting Thunderbolt 5 docking station should offer, the CubeDock can deliver up to 120Gbps bandwidth, display support and 140W charging. On top of that, or rather inside the 5 x 5 x 2-inch shell, is an integrated NVMe SSD bay (PCIe 4×4) that supports up to 8TB at 6000MBps. The solid aluminum dock boasts a full complement of three Thunderbolt 5 downstream ports, plus 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A, UHS-II SD/microSD, and speedy 2.5Gb Ethernet. The 180W CubeDock can fast-charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro at 140W plus an iPhone or iPad at another 30W. It supports up to two 6K/60Hz external displays on M3/M4/M5 Macs. Satechi’s Thunderbolt 5 CubeDockTM is available for preorder on Satechi.net for $400 and will begin shipping this quarter. Satechi is offering 20 percent off all CES-launched products with code CES2026 on Satechi.net throughout January. While you’re at it, you can also grab a new Thunderbolt 5 Pro Cable made with reinforced aluminum housings and a premium braided jacket. ESR 25W MagSlim Magnetic Power Bank – Slimmest-ever 10K power bank ESR Wireless power banks keep getting faster and slimmer, and at CES, ESR introduced its new 10K MagSlim Power Bank, which it claims to be the thinnest Qi2 25W power bank on the market. Sleek and available in five colors, including one especially for the Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro models. The 10K MagSlim measures 4 x 2.75 x 0.54 inches (10.2 x 7 x 1.38cm), with the standout number there being the last. Half an inch thick/thin is certainly the slimmest 10K magnetic power bank we’ve seen. It weighs 185g. And it’s fast: iPhones from the 16 and 17 series can wirelessly charge at up to 25W. Additionally, the spare USB-C port can deliver a 30W wired charge. Older iPhones will charge at a more pedestrian 15W. As with many products that wow us at CES, it won’t actually appear till much later in the year—in this case, ESR suggests it won’t ship until August. BMX SolidSafe Air Power Bank – Slimmest-ever 5K power bank BMX Another super-slim power bank introduced at CES is the 5K BMX SolidSafe Air power bank, which is just 0.68cm thin but still packs a kickstand and full-color LCD. It will be available in a range of titanium-copper colors to match the newest iPhones Pro models. It’s not at the fastest 25W level, but the Qi2 power bank will still wirelessly charge at 15W. It’s a semi-solid-state power bank, so it should last longer than standard liquid-electrolyte battery packs. The SolidSafe Air, also including 10K power banks, will become available in Q2 from BMX. As well as the SolidSafe Air, BMX also showcases GaNsta AI-powered GaN chargers and ByteSize micro SSDs. Anker 45W Nano Charger – Wall charger with 180° foldable plug prongs Anker A charger with a full LCD display? Sure, why not? The tiny 45W Anker Nano Charger boasts a smart interactive display that shows real-time charging status (charging power, temperature, and phone battery level) and an adorable little face. That’s all very useful, but what we love about this charger is its dual 70-degree or 180-degree foldable plug prongs, which means it should fit in any socket as it suits you, fitting tight wall socket spaces in the home or office (behind cupboards, or in bed corners and sofa gaps), while always showing its screen. In addition, the Nano Charger identifies your model of iPhone model to deliver up to 45W for a tailored charging solution, with an auto-matching three-stage power delivery. Anker claims the one-tap TÜV-certified Care Mode protects battery health by reducing phone battery temperature by 9°F compared to other 45W chargers during charging. At 45W, it’s even powerful enough to charge the MacBook Air. The Anker Nano Charger will be available later this month at an MSRP of $40. Anker is busy at CES 2026, premiering not just the Nano Charger but a foldable 3-in-1 Prime Wireless Charging Station, and a 10-in-1 Nano Power Strip with two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and six AC outlets for a clutter-free desk setup. Moreover, its Eufy smart-home spin-off is showing the Robot Vacuum Omni S2, Video Doorbell S4, and Smart Lock E40. Plugable TBT-UDH2 – First Thunderbolt 5 dock with dual HDMI 2.1 Plugable Plugable, the company already behind Macworld’s current best value Thunderbolt 5 dock, has another TB5 dock to shout about at CES 2026.: The new TBT-UDH2 Thunderbolt 5 Dock, which it claims is the only one to have dual HDMI 2.1 ports. The TBT-UDH2 is a 16-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 docking station that can lie flat or sit upright. It has just the one downstream Thunderbolt 5 port (140W), but an impressive five USB-C, one of which can output at up to 30W, as can the spare TB5 port. Legacy devices are supported with three USB-A ports. As we now see with most modern docking stations, networking is looking to the future with 2.5Gb Ethernet—backwards compatible with Gigabit Ethernet. The SD and microSD slots are both rated at UHS-II. The TBT-UDH2 is expected to launch in Q2 2026 in North America for $350. Ugreen NASync iDX6011 Pro – Adding Local AI to NAS Ugreen Best known for its chargers and docking stations, Ugreen made a big splash into the Network Assisted Storage market last year with its NASync range of NAS drives, which are more secure and more stable than standard external hard drives at a higher capacity and a lower long-term price point than Cloud storage. It may look like something from a data center, but it could be the new hub for all your home media. Announcing two new high-end models at CES 2026, the company is pushing its own implementation of on-device intelligence with the NASync iDX Series that uses local AI to help users search and interact with their files, quickly finding moments, faces, objects, documents, and memories. The AI can auto-organize photo libraries, enable offline AI chats, and transcribe or speedily summarize voice notes. The series also works with ChatGPT and DeepSeek. Both the iDX6011 and iDX6011 Pro boast dual-10GbE ports plus two 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 ports for fast external storage and peripherals. Each aluminum-alloy unit supports up to six SATA drives and two NVMe SSDs, enabling total storage of 196TB, which should allow you oodles of archiving as well as easy-access media. Ugreen is already taking preorders with special pricing for the iDX6011 ($999 for 32GB) and the iDX6011 Pro ($1,599 for 64GB memory and a faster processor). Bluetti Elite 100 V2 Bio-Based Edition – Greening the power station Bluetti We’ve all heard about Green Power, and a portable power station is certainly cleaner than a gas-guzzling, deadly carbon monoxide-fuming generator. But the batteries themselves are something of an environmental conundrum, and that includes portable power stations that come in handy for camping, tailgates, and emergencies. Power station supremo Bluetti addresses this with its Bio-Based Elite 100 V2 Edition, which features the first chassis crafted from bio-circular plastics. Developed with Covestro, the ISCC PLUS-certified blend utilizes renewable agricultural residues that Bluetti claims will slash carbon emissions by 25 percent. And we certainly applaud that initiative. In terms of raw power, the Elite 100 V2 has a 1,024Wh battery capacity and a maximum 1,800W output to be shared by its 11 ports, including four AC sockets. Further green points are gained by its 1,000W solar input potential when hooked up to panels.11:28 am200MP iPhone Camera Not Yet in Active Prototype Testing, Says Leaker
Apple's adoption of a 200-megapixel camera for a future iPhone is still some ways off, according to a prominent supply chain leaker who says such a sensor is not currently part of Apple's active prototype testing. In a post on Weibo, Chinese leaker Digital Chat Station said that 200-megapixel camera sensors are being discussed in the supply chain, but they have not appeared in iPhone engineering prototypes undergoing real-world imaging tests. Instead, Apple's current camera development work is said to remain focused on refining 48-megapixel systems, as per previous reports. The leaker's comments follow a research note from Morgan Stanley this week that suggested Apple is working to bring a 200-megapixel camera to the iPhone as soon as 2028. Digital Chat Station's remarks don't rule out such a move – indeed, the leaker said last May that Apple was looking at future adoption – but they do indicate that engineering-stage development on the sensor has yet to begin. Samsung introduced a 200-megapixel rear camera on its Galaxy S23 Ultra in 2023, and the follow-up models also have one. With a 200-megapixel camera, an iPhone would be able to shoot photos with greater detail. The increased megapixel count would also result in higher-resolution photos, which can be cropped further and printed at larger sizes without a loss of image quality. However, Digital Chat Station says current Pro-series prototypes continue to test a 48-megapixel main camera with a variable aperture, alongside a 48-megapixel telephoto camera featuring a longer focal length and a larger aperture. The leaker says these changes will be introduced later this year in iPhone 18 Pro models, indicating Apple is continuing its emphasis on optical flexibility and low-light performance, rather than a jump in raw resolution. The leaker adds that 200-megapixel sensors – reportedly supplied by Samsung – are currently only at a material or component evaluation stage. This typically refers to early feasibility checks within the supply chain, rather than integration into complete iPhone prototypes. Digital Chat Station also notes that Apple has shown interest in "multispectral imaging technology", though testing has reportedly not yet begun. Multispectral imaging could theoretically enable improved material/object detection and image processing, but there is no suggestion that such features are anywhere close to shipping.Tag: Digital Chat StationThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums11:09 amiPhone Air designer joins Hawk AI startup
One of Apple's iPhone Air designers, Abidur Chowdhury, left to become the head of design at a new AI startup called Hawk.iPhone Air designer joins AI startupChowdhury left Apple in November 2025 and it was reported then that he was moving to an AI startup. Now Bloomberg has reported that the firm is Hawk, founded by Brett Adcock, who is known for the robotics company, Figure AI.Adcock reportedly self-funded Hawk with $100 million of his own money, and says that it is intended to grow alongside Figure AI. Where the robotics firm is developing a general-purpose humanoid robot, Hawk is said to be working on AI models. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums10:56 am13 Years of iOS Experience led me into a trap. Why my next feature might be Web-first. | Reddit on iOS Programming13 Years of iOS Experience led me into a trap. Why my next feature might be Web-first.
Senior iOS dev (13 years). I naturally reached for Swift and SwiftUI to solve my nutrition problem. The app is fast, private (on-device data), and uses on-device math to check AI results. I realized too late that building an MVP or prototype needs to be easily accessible and needs fast feedback loops. iOS is powerful, […]10:48 amFuture Of The Appstore
There will be a surge of non-technical individuals creating AI slop for the App Store. This is likely unsustainable for Apple to manage. My prediction is they will either increase the Developer fee to $500 per year or create a separate platform where the vibe-coded slop can exist with their own monetization model. What do […]10:35 amZapier Copilot Not responding when using Canvas
Status: InvestigatingCopilot isn’t working in Canvas. Attempts to use Copilot result in an error message, and the service does not respond. The team is currently investigating this. We will keep you posted on the progressAffected components Canvas (Partial outage)10:30 amWe might have just got our first sighting of the iPhone Fold screen
Macworld It’s early January, and in the tech world that means one thing: The Consumer Electronics Show. At this time of year, tech companies, fans, and journalists converge on Las Vegas for a showcase of the very latest innovations, and in 2026, that surprisingly included a glimpse of Apple’s most highly anticipated new product. To be clear, Apple isn’t in attendance at the show. But rival Samsung, or more specifically its subsidiary Samsung Display, is in Las Vegas this week, and it just revealed a foldable screen that will be of great interest to Apple fans. As reported by the Samsung-focused news site SamMobile, the new offering is the company’s first crease-free foldable panel. Product managers had set up a comparison between the new screen and that of the (widely admired) Galaxy Z Fold 7, and from photography, it’s easy to see the difference that having no crease makes to the viewing experience. Samsung displayed it next to a standard foldable screen, and the difference is massive. This development is key to the progress of the foldables sector. If makers of folding phones are to achieve mainstream acceptance, they need to accomplish two things: to build a hinge that customers believe is pretty much indestructible, and to kill the crease. And it looks like Samsung Display just solved the second problem. Unsurprisingly, foldable products by other subsidiaries of Samsung Electronics will be in line to benefit from this development, and SamMobile notes that the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 is likely to use the new creaseless panel. But Samsung Display is also a major supplier to another company by the name of Apple Inc., and that could prove significant later this year. Apple has reportedly been working to eliminate the crease for its first folding iPhone, and judging by the looks of this prototype, its years of work have paid off. At long, long last, we’re expecting Apple to unveil its first foldable at some point in 2026. The iPhone Fold has been delayed for so long because Apple wants to get this product right on its first swing, which is where those two missions I mentioned earlier come in. The device’s hinge will be made of ultra-durable metallic glass marketed as LiquidMetal. And the screen will be crease-free thanks to the work of Samsung Display. There’s a decent chance, in other words, that visitors to this year’s CES–and you–have just seen the screen of the iPhone Fold.08:46 amLogitech mice and keyboards are currently broken on Mac
A certificate issue has broken the Logi Options+ app on macOS, leaving many Logitech mouse and keyboard features unusable (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)08:30 amFound a FIX for “Unable to upload app preview. Please try again later” (App store connect) | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingFound a FIX for “Unable to upload app preview. Please try again later” (App store connect)
This solution works 100% If you've ever tried uploading an App Preview video to App Store Connect and got stuck with the classic: "Unable to upload preview. Please try again later." no error details, no logs, no explanation — this one's for you. There are few solutions to use fimpeg to export video with specific […]08:30 amCES 2026: Philips Hue Line Get New SpatialAware Scenes, Hue Cameras Gain HomeKit Support | MacRumorsCES 2026: Philips Hue Line Get New SpatialAware Scenes, Hue Cameras Gain HomeKit Support
Lighting company Signify today announced a new SpatialAware scene feature that's coming to Philips Hue lights. SpatialAware scenes take into account the position of all of the Hue lights in a room, using an algorithm to distribute light in a more natural way. The savannah sunset scene with SpatialAware The SpatialAware feature analyzes the layout of each room in the home with Hue lights, and then lighting scenes are tailored to your personal space. Lighting is meant to feel more immersive and dynamic than before. The savannah sunset scene without SpatialAware Right now, when a Scene Gallery scene is activated, the different colors are randomly sent to different lights without the system knowing where those lights are positioned. SpatialAware allows color to be distributed more intentionally for a more natural look. A scene that's designed to mimic a sunset, for example, will set lamps on one side of the room to warm yellow tones to mimic the setting sun, while lamps on the other side are set to darker shades. SpatialAware requires the Hue Bridge Pro that came out last year, and it uses an iPhone or iPad camera to scan the room to figure out where each light is located. Scans can be updated with each new light that's added. SpatialAware will be accessible through the Scene Gallery, and it is an optional setting. At launch, SpatialAware will be compatible with around half of the light scenes available in the Scene Gallery, and it has been designed primarily for nature-based scenes like lake mist, mountain breeze, and savanna sunset. Along with SpatialAware, Signify is adding support for migrating multiple Hue bridges to a single Bridge Pro during the Bridge Pro setup process, and it is bringing Apple Home support to the Hue Secure camera line. The Hue Secure Camera, Hue Secure video doorbell, and Hue contact sensors will work with Apple Home in the future, and users will be able to stream live video in picture-in-picture mode on the Apple TV and get real-time alerts using the Apple Home app. The Hue AI assistant has been updated with the ability to create automations based on natural language user requests, such as "wake me up at 6:45 a.m. every day except on Saturdays," and AI support is expanding to additional languages like Dutch, German, and Spanish. Automations for lights and accessories are also now listed in the Rooms and Zones they control for easier adjustment, with options to rearrange content to put the most used automations front and center. The new Hue SpatialAware feature is launching in spring 2026, while Apple Home support is coming in the first quarter of 2026. Multi-bridge migration and AI assistant automations are available now.Tags: CES 2026, Philips HueThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums08:30 amBest Lightning Cables for iPhone 2026
Macworld Lightning ports were once ubiquitous across Apple’s iPhone and iPad line-up. Apple has switched fully to USB-C ports for its iPads, and from the iPhone 15 family onwards, the Lightning port is now replaced by USB-C. But for iPhone versions 5 to 14, plus older AirPods cases and trusty Apple mice and keyboards, Lightning is the port you need a cable for. iPhone 14 and older: Lightning iPhone 15 and later: USB-C For iPhones and older iPads that use the Lightning port, you can buy a cable that has a Lightning connector at one end and either full-size rectangular USB-A or the smaller, reversible USB-C connector at the other to plug into a charger. Using a USB-C charger rather than one with older USB-A allows for fast charging. Here we pick the best Lightning charging cables, including some that work with both older Lightning devices and newer USB-C models. If you still have a charger with a USB-A port, consider upgrading to a USB-C charger as iPhone fast-charging only works with a USB-C charger. The best setup for iPhones before the iPhone 15 is a USB-C charger and a USB-C to Lightning cable. Check out our tests for the best USB-C chargers for iPhone. As most Apple users will agree, one phone-charging cable is never enough. Whether it gets damaged through wear and tear, or it is misplaced, borrowed or stolen, you can guarantee it is never there when you need it. Third-party Apple-certified cables are more expensive than many online alternatives but we highly recommend you buy a certified cable, because cheap third-party alternatives have a nasty habit of suddenly deciding to stop working with your device. Moreover, they can be dangerous—here are some good reasons why you shouldn’t buy a cheap Lightning cable. There are exceptions, however, so a few of the cables recommended below have been tested by us but don’t have the MFi stamp of approval. These are clearly marked. If you’re forever buying new cables, you might also want to consider a magnetic wireless charger, with traditional docks, stands and pads as well as portable wireless chargers with built-in batteries now available. All current-generation iPhones support wireless charging, but do note that this is a slower process than charging via a cable (depending on your cable and adapter). MagSafe-compatible wireless chargers output at 7.5W while certified MagSafe and Qi2 chargers double that to 15W, and the latest Qi2 25W wireless chargers are nearly as fast as charging via a cable. iPhone 15/16/17 and USB-C iPad users should go to our roundup of the best USB-C charging cables for iPhone. Best Lightning cables for iPhone and iPad in 2026 Apple Lightning to USB-C Cable – Apple's own USB-C to Lightning Cable Pros Made by Apple Fast charge Cons Expensive Price When Reviewed: From $19 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $13.47 View Deal $19 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 1m or 2m MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes To unlock Fast Charge on your iPhone you need a USB-C to Lightning cable (and at least an 18W adaptor). Apple’s variant might be one of the more expensive examples, but it’s also the most trustworthy, hailing direct from Apple itself. That said, Apple’s non-braided cables have a reputation for fraying and losing their pristine white color over time. The standard cable that ships with most Apple products is the 1m cable ($19 /£19), but it’s also available at 2m ($29/ £29). Apple Lightning to USB-A cable – Apple's own USB-A to Lightning Cable Pros Made by Apple Cons No Fast Charge Expensive Price When Reviewed: $19 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $12.99 View Deal $19 View Deal $19 View Deal $19.99 View Deal $27.98 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-A Length: 0.5m, 1m or 2m MFi: Certified Fast charge: No Not as iconic as the white earbuds, but white and useful nonetheless, you might want to buy your Lightning cable direct from Apple. As a USB-A cable it won’t support Apple’s Fast Charge on iPhone, but it’s pretty handy none the less if you own a charger with the old rectangular USB-A port. We still recommend you upgrade to a USB-C charger and USB-C to Lightning cable. It is available at half or double the standard 1m length (0.5m is the same price; 2m is a little extra). Either way, it’s still expensive compared to some third-party Lightning cables. Do note that these Apple white cables often tend to go a nice shade of murky gray pretty fast, depending on your usage. Anker 331 USB-C to Lightning Cable – Best budget USB-C to Lightning cable Pros Super tough Affordable Fast Charge Color options Price When Reviewed: $16.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $15.99 View Deal Anker $16.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 1m or 2m MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes Anker is one of the most trusted Apple-accessory brands, and it offers a wide range of USB to Lightning cables. The Apple-certified, nylon-braided Anker 331 USB-C to Lightning Cable is its budget offering but is still more robust than Apple’s cables and available in a wider choice of lengths (from 1m to 2m) and colors (Black, Silver, Blue and Red). Anker claims that the 331 cable can withstand up to 12,000 bends. The Anker 762 USB-C to Lightning Cable ups that claim to 35,000 bends. Remember that you need a USB-C to Lightning cable like this one for fast-charging iPhones older than the iPhone 15. Amazon Basics USB-C to Lightning Cable – Best basic USB-C to Lightning cable Pros Affordable USB-C for Fast Charge Multiple colors and lengths Price When Reviewed: $11.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $8.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 0.3m, 0.9m or 1.8m MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes Products in the AmazonBasics range just work and they’re very cheap to boot. Cheap does not mean bad though—Basics’ 1.82m cable is cheap, and if you can find the shorter variant in stock it’s even cheaper. Amazon does note that it works with ‘nearly all cases’, so you may want to double-check, but we doubt this would be a problem for most accessories. It’s available in white or black and red, in most regions. AmazonBasics Lightning cable – Best basic USB-A to Lightning cable Pros Affordable Multiple colors and lengths Cons No Fast Charge Price When Reviewed: $11.69 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $8.96 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-A Length: 0.3m, 0.9m or 1.8m MFi: Certified Fast charge: No For older chargers, this is a decent affordable USB-A to Lightning cable available in various lengths and in black or white. It’s USB-A so not a Fast Charge option like the USB-C version. Rolling Square inCharge XL 6-in-1 – Best USB/Lightning combo cable Pros Fast charges nearly everything Travel pouch with longer models Three color options Price When Reviewed: From $34.90 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $34.90 View Deal Rolling Square $34.90 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C or USB-A Length: 15cm, 30cm, 2m or 3m MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes This magic cable has USB-C or USB-A at the charging end, and USB-C or Lightning at the other, so it should sort out all your device charging—especially as the Lightning connector is cleverly combined with MicroUSB. It’s available in white, black or yellow. InCharge XL 1ft (30cm): $29.99 / £29.99 InCharge XL 6.6ft (2m): $34.90 / £34.90 InCharge XL 10ft (3m): $39.99 / £39.99 InCharge XL Pocket 0.5ft (15cm): $29.99 / £29.99 Read our full Rolling Square inCharge XL 6-in-1 charging cable review Native Union Belt Cable Duo USB-C to Lightning and USB-C Cable Pros USB-C or Lightning connectors Robust cable Color options Price When Reviewed: $39.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $19.99 View Deal $31.98 View Deal $39.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 15cm, 30cm, 2m or 3m MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes Five foot long, braided for toughness and available in snazzy shades of gray, green and yellow, the Native Union Belt Cable Duo gives you the choice between a USB-C and Lightning connector at one end of the cable. This is a great solution for people with a mixture of device connectors. It can charge at up to 60W, so is even capable for charging your MacBook. StarTech.com USB-C to Lightning Cable – Best coiled USB-C to Lightning cable Pros Compact and tangle-free USB-C for Fast Charge Price When Reviewed: $25 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $19.98 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 0.5 m or 1m MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes One way to avoid cable snakes is a coiled cable that takes up less space on your desk or wherever you lay it. This coiled Lightning cable from StarTech.com is available with either USB-A or USB-C but USB-C to Lightning is better for Fast Charge, and in either 50cm/20in or 1m/3ft lengths. The shorter cable extends to 50cm/20in and contracts to 32cm/12.5in. The longer version extends to 1m/3.3ft (1m) and contracts to 38cm/1.2ft. StarTech.com USB to Lightning Cable – Best coiled USB-A to Lightning cable Pros Compact and tangle-free Cons No Fast Charge Price When Reviewed: $25.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $22.29 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-A Length: 0.5 m or 1m MFi: Certified Fast charge: No This coiled Lightning cable with USB-A at the other end fits older chargers but doesn’t support Apple’s Fast Charge like the USB-C version does. Like its more modern sibling, it is available in either 50cm/20in or 1m/3ft lengths. The shorter cable extends to 50cm/20in and contracts to 32cm/12.5in. The longer version extends to 1m/3.3ft (1m) and contracts to 38cm/1.2ft. Bawanfa Extra Long Lightning Cable – Best long Lightning cable Pros Long Color options Price When Reviewed: $17.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $17.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-A Length: 6m (20ft) MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes This Lightning cable is an amazing 6m (that’s 20-feet) long. If the plug outlet in your room of choice is further away from your sprawling place of choice then this is the answer. It’s also handy for passing round in a car. The thicker than Apple cable is more durable and should last you a while. If you really must stick with a slower USB-A charger, there is a 20-foot USB-A to Lightning cable version. Anker New Nylon USB-C to Lightning Cable Pros Short and tangle-free Price When Reviewed: $16.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $16.99 View Deal $16.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 0.3m (1ft) MFi: Certified Fast charge: Yes You know what? Sometimes you just need a short cable, rather than a skinny python snaking over your desk. One of the best short Lightning cables we’ve seen is from Anker, it’s just a foot long, and it’s MFI certified. CableCreation Short iPhone Charger Cable – Best short USB-A to Lightning cable Pros Short Color options Cons No Fast Charge Price When Reviewed: $16 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $13.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-A Length: 15cm MFi: Certified Fast charge: No This USB-A to Lightning cable from CableCreation is MFI certified but won’t support iPhone Fast Charge as it has USB-A at the other end. It’s 15cm (6in) long, and available in either black-&-white, black or rose gold depending on which Amazon store you are buying from. Wave Bio-Based Lightning Charging Cable – Best eco-friendly Lightning cable Pros USB-C for Fast Charge Eco friendly Price When Reviewed: $13 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Wave $12 View Deal Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 1m MFi: No Fast charge: Yes The exterior of these USB-C to Lightning cables is constructed using plant-based materials, thus reducing a reliance on petroleum-based plastics like thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The packaging is recyclable (the bio-based cables are secured by a recyclable paper sleeve) and even the shipping is carbon neutral, offsetting the CO2 produced. Shipping outside the UK is an extra US$6.30 or €6, but if you value the planet that’s not a lot to pay. Wave also makes a USB-A to Lightning version of the cable, but remember that this won’t support fast charging like the USB-C to Lightning cable. The cables are not yet MFi certified but could be at a later date, depending on demand. RapidX Lightning Charging Cable Stand – Best Cable/Stand hybrid Pros Acts as stand Cons Landscape mode only for stand Price When Reviewed: $19.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price RapidX $19.99 View Deal Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket USB type: USB-C Length: 1.2m MFi: No Fast charge: Yes Most cables just do one or two things: charging and data transfer or both. The RapidX 2-in-1 Lightning Charging Cable can also be used as a phone stand—great for streaming movies or making FaceTime calls while charging your phone. The stand works in landscape mode only. The 4-foot braided nylon jacket is made from recycled materials, such as fishing nets and textile production waste. It has USB-C on one end and Lightning on the other, USB-A vs USB-C: Which Lightning cable should I buy? Fast Charge on an iPhone (available on iPhone 8 and above) can be achieved only when using a USB-C to Lightning cable, and pairing it with either an 18W or higher charger or a third-party model that supports Power Delivery. See our roundup of the best iPhone chargers. A USB-A to Lightning cable will charge your iPhone more slowly, regardless of what adapter it is paired with. It is true that there are also some differences between USB-C and USB-A when it comes to data-transfer speeds, with only USB-C able to accommodate the latest USB4 standard, which can achieve Thunderbolt 3/4-equivalent speeds of 40Gbps. Regardless, Lightning can carry only 480Mbps (akin to USB 2.0 speed), making this a moot point for this batch of cables. Thunderbolt 5 is backwards compatible with USB-C and can handle data transfers of up to 120Gbps. Identical in design to Thunderbolt, USB-C is a conveniently reversible and future-proofed connector. But USB-A remains commonplace and, for that, it is still sought after by iPhone and iPad users.08:21 amWhy UGREEN’s new iDX NAS is more than storage—and superior to the Cloud
Macworld UGREEN’s presence at CES 2026 wasn’t just about adding another pair of NAS boxes to an already crowded market. With the introduction of the NASync iDX6011 and iDX6011 Pro, the company made a clear argument: network-attached storage is overdue for a rethink. In UGREEN’s vision, a NAS shouldn’t merely hold files—it should understand them, help you work with them, and do so without pushing your most personal data into the cloud. UGREEN Rethinking what a NAS is for Traditional NAS systems excel at one thing: storage. They back up data, share files across a network, and little else. As data volumes grow and workflows become more complex, that passive role feels increasingly limited. UGREEN’s new NASync iDX Series aims to change that dynamic by embedding intelligence directly into the device, turning local storage into something closer to an active data partner. Both the iDX6011 and iDX6011 Pro are built around Intel® Core™ Ultra processors and paired with up to 64GB of LPDDR5x memory. On paper, the specs are immediately attention-grabbing: dual 10GbE Ethernet ports capable of 20Gbps via aggregation, dual Thunderbolt™ 4 ports offering up to 40Gbps, and storage scalability up to 196TB through six SATA bays and two NVMe slots. This is clearly hardware designed not just for backups, but for demanding creative, professional, and multi-user environments. UGREEN Local AI, not Cloud dependence What truly sets the iDX Series apart, however, is UGREEN’s insistence on fully local AI. At a time when “AI features” often translate to cloud subscriptions and opaque data pipelines, UGREEN is taking a different approach. Its Local AI Engine runs entirely on the NAS itself, meaning files never need to leave the device to be analyzed, searched, or summarized. The most immediately useful expression of this is Universal Search. Instead of hunting through folders, users can describe what they’re looking for in natural language—an idea, a scene, or even a vague memory—and the system retrieves relevant files across documents, photos, videos, and app data. It’s a small shift in interface, but a big one in daily usability. UGREEN’s Uliya AI Chat builds on this foundation. Acting as an offline large language model, it allows users to ask questions about their stored content, summarize lengthy documents, or generate notes from local files. Because everything runs on-device, the experience is both fast and private, positioning the NAS as a personal knowledge base rather than a simple file server. Optionally you can access popular third-party cloud-based AI models such as ChatGPT and Gemini directly through your NAS. UGREEN Smarter media and documents For users with large photo and media libraries, the AI Album feature is likely to be a standout. The system can recognize faces, animals, objects, scenes, and text within images, automatically organizing and tagging content. Typing a phrase like “girl riding a bike” or “meeting notes on whiteboard” surfaces the right images instantly. Voice Memos extend similar intelligence to audio files, enabling on-device transcription, translation, and summarization—useful for meetings, interviews, or lectures. Behind the scenes, AI File Organization ensures that uploads don’t become a digital junk drawer. Files are automatically sorted by type, date, and name as soon as they’re added, keeping large libraries manageable without constant manual effort. Two models, two audiences UGREEN is careful to differentiate the two models in the lineup. The NASync iDX6011 uses an Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 125H processor and is available with either 32GB or 64GB of memory. It’s positioned for creators, families, and prosumers who want strong performance, intelligent organization, and private AI without venturing into workstation territory. The NASync iDX6011 Pro is aimed squarely at power users and studios. Powered by the more capable Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 255H and equipped with 64GB of memory as standard, it adds an OCuLink port for external GPU connectivity. This opens the door to GPU-accelerated AI workloads, rendering, and other compute-heavy tasks, effectively turning the NAS into a hybrid storage and processing hub. A built-in smart touch display provides at-a-glance visibility into system status, resource usage, and network activity. UGREEN Performance meets practical design UGREEN hasn’t ignored the fundamentals. Multiple RAID options, pro-grade encryption, real-time virus scanning, and granular permission controls underline a serious approach to security. The aluminum-alloy chassis, magnetic dust filter, and low-noise hydraulic fan result in a system that looks premium and runs quietly, even under load. A three-year warranty and five years of security updates add confidence for long-term deployment. UGREEN Pricing and the bigger picture Pre-orders are already open, with aggressive early pricing: the iDX6011 starts at $999 for the 32GB version and $1,199 for 64GB, while the iDX6011 Pro comes in at $1,559. A Kickstarter launch is planned for March. Taken together, the NASync iDX6011 and iDX6011 Pro feel less like incremental updates and more like a statement of intent. UGREEN is betting that the future of NAS lies not in bigger drives alone, but in smarter, privacy-first systems that actively help users understand and use their data. If that vision resonates, the iDX Series could mark a meaningful turning point for the category.08:00 amThese ultra-slim trackers fit where AirTags don’t and are on sale
Macworld TL;DR: Track your wallet and other essentials with ultra-slim Apple Find My–compatible SmartCards, now $69.97 for a 3-pack (reg. $119.97). We’ve all been there. You get home from a great night out, start unloading your pockets, and suddenly it hits you. Your wallet isn’t there. In that moment, you’ll wish you had a KeySmart SmartCard. Designed to slide directly into a wallet like a credit card, it turns items bulky AirTags can’t handle into trackable things for ultimate peace of mind. Right now, a 3-pack is available on price drop for $69.97. Each SmartCard works seamlessly with Apple’s Find My app, so there’s no extra software to learn. Once paired, you can check your wallet’s last known location on a map, play a sound if it’s nearby, or enable Lost Mode so whoever finds it can see your contact information. The ultra-thin design is what makes these different from traditional trackers. They fit into wallets, passport holders, ID badges, or slim bags without adding bulk. They’re also IPX8 waterproof, so spills, rain, or an accidental wash won’t stop them from working. Charging is handled wirelessly, keeping things simple and eliminating tiny cables. With three trackers included, you can cover more than just your wallet. Use the extras for a work bag, travel pouch, or other everyday essentials. For a limited time, you can grab a 3-pack of KeySmart SmartCards for $69.97 (reg. $119.97) and add some peace of mind to your everyday carry. KeySmart® SmartCard – Works With Apple Find My | Wireless Charging (3-Pack)See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.07:11 amApp Store review frustration
After going through a never-ending app approval process with Apple, I was wondering what others experienced when submitting a new app. We had reviews where links where requested that were clearly there (EULA), but the reviewer didn’t find it (multiple times) despite these being clearly shared in a screenshot. We were also declined of approval […]06:42 amSMS Delivery Delays to Google Voice in United States of America via Subset of Shortcodes
Jan 6, 22:42 PSTInvestigating - We are experiencing SMS Delivery Delays to Google Voice in United States of America via Subset of Shortcodes. Our engineers are working with our carrier partner to resolve the issue. We will provide another update in 1 hours or as soon as more information becomes available.04:04 amHow folder emoji & customization works in macOS Tahoe
You've long been able to customize folders in the Mac's Finder, but only with a lot of non-obvious fiddling. Now with macOS Tahoe, Apple has made it a lot simpler.You can now customize the color and look of folders much more easily than beforeMaybe you have been using the Mac long enough to remember when third-party firms sold utilities that changed your folders into 3D. Or perhaps you've never given a folder a passing through beyond wondering where you saved it.Whichever folder customizing camp you're in, do take a moment to see what Apple has added — and how it can benefit you. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums03:28 amCan indie devs create apps as big as Instagram?
Hey everyone; I’m curious to get some honest perspective. I’m an indie developer working on a few different app ideas, and sometimes I catch myself dreaming big like “what if one of these could grow into something on the scale of Instagram?” Then reality hits. It makes me wonder whether thinking like that is motivating… […]02:59 amHelp! watchOS Complication Can’t Read App Group Data Written by iPhone
Hey everyone! I'm stuck on what feels like it should be straightforward, but I've been banging my head against this for a while now. Would really appreciate any guidance! What I'm Trying to Do Display a simple integer value in a watch complication. The idea is: 1. iPhone app writes a value to App Group […]02:15 amLetting users customise their notifications
https://preview.redd.it/tt554gdv5ubg1.png?width=1206&format=png&auto=webp&s=9f4ecca295d10b58704709a2dd329319be8b12e7 Personally, I hate notifications, especially naggy ones. For most apps, I turn them off entirely. But some people love them. My sister, who is alpha-testing my task management app, has been asking for them. So I built a screen to allow people to design exactly when and what they should be notified about. I'm […]01:31 amSMS Delivery Delays to Vinaphone in Viet Nam
Jan 6, 17:31 PSTInvestigating - We are experiencing SMS delivery delays when sending messages to Vinaphone in Viet Nam. Our engineers are working with our carrier partner to resolve the issue. We will provide another update in 1 hour or as soon as more information becomes available.01:07 amThis is the weirdest auction of Steve Jobs memorabilia we’ve ever seen
Some rather strange Steve Jobs memorabilia is up for auction, showcasing unique items related to the Apple co-founder. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)01:01 amMcon mobile gaming controller review: Compact design with premium feel
The new Mcon controller balances portability and performance in a compact, MagSafe-compatible design for iPhone gamers.Mcon mobile gaming controller review: A new take on mobile controllersGaming controllers usually come in two flavors. You'll find ones that are extremely comfortable and capable, as well as those that are small and portable.Finding a controller that is both portable and capable is a rarity, to say the least. The OhSnap Mcon is the first one I've tested that makes good choices on compromises and uses MagSafe for easy connection to iPhone. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:16 amCES 2026: Google Brings Gemini AI Features to Google TV, Previewing What Apple TV Could Get | MacRumorsCES 2026: Google Brings Gemini AI Features to Google TV, Previewing What Apple TV Could Get
At CES 2026, Google announced some new Gemini features that it's bringing to Google TVs. Google TV is built into some TV sets and set-top boxes, and while it may not be immediately relevant to many Apple users, it does give us a look at what AI can do on a TV set. Gemini on Google TV will be able to answer queries with a "visually rich framework" that offers up imagery, videos, and real-time sports updates. A "Deep Dives" feature will give users narrated, interactive overviews of a topic that are simplified for the whole family. Users can search through their Google Photos Library using Gemini to find specific people or moments. It enables image editing on the TV, with options to apply artistic styles or generate cinematic slideshows. Nano Banana, Google's image generator, can reimagine personal photos or create original media right on the TV. Veo, Google's video generation tool, is also coming to Google TV. Google is also adding an option to use natural language to optimize TV settings, which is perhaps the most useful new feature that Gemini integration brings. Users can tell Gemini things like "the screen is too dim" or "I can't hear the dialogue" to make quick adjustments to picture and sound. According to Google, the Gemini features will be coming to TCL devices first, and other Google TV devices over the coming months. Apple is planning to use a version of Google Gemini for some of its upcoming AI features, including the smarter version of Siri. The next-generation version of the Apple TV is expected to get an A17 Pro chip, which is compatible with Apple Intelligence. With Apple adopting Gemini and Apple TVs soon becoming capable of new AI features, it's possible that some of the features that Google has announced for Google TV could be replicated on the Apple TV. Apple could use Apple Intelligence and the new version of Siri to simplify controls, make better content suggestions, and more. The updated Apple TV and the new version of Siri could both come in spring 2026.Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forumsTuesday January 0611:38 pmCES 2026: Aukey Launches MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro
Aukey introduced a new desktop charging option this week, debuting the $150 MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro. The DeskHive is a 5-in-1 charging solution that combines wired and wireless charging in a compact desktop box. Measuring in at 3.76 x 3.76 x 3.07 inches, the DeskHive includes two retractable USB-C cables, a USB-C port, a USB-A port, and a Qi2.2 25W charger for wirelessly charging the iPhone. The magnetic charger has an adjustable hinge so it can be positioned at different angles for video calls or watching content. With GaN technology, the DeskHive provides up to 200W for charging, offering support for charging at 140W through the USB-C port. A digital display offers real-time output for each wired port. Aukey was also showing off the MagFusion Ark charger that it first debuted last year. The MagFusion Ark has a 6-in-1 design that includes a base station able to charge up to three devices, and three detachable 6,700 mAh power bank spheres for multi-device charging. The MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro and the MagFusion Ark are expected to launch in the second quarter of 2026.Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums11:30 pm9to5Mac Daily: January 6, 2026 – CES news
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 9to5Mac Daily Plus: Get ad-free versions of every episode by visiting 9to5mac.com/join. more…11:02 pmCES 2026: GE's $300 Matter Smart Shades Work With Apple Home
GE Lighting this week unveiled Matter-compatible GE Smart Shades that are able to integrate with the Apple Home app. Priced starting at $300, the Smart Shades offer simple, screw-free installation, with white and gray fabric options. The shades can be purchased in a translucent fabric to let light through, or a blackout version. All options have aluminum trim and no visible hardware. The motorized shades are designed to raise or lower via an included remote control, the Apple Home app, Siri voice commands, or time-based automations. There are options to integrate shade controls with other smart home products, or based on whether or not someone is home. GE's Smart Shades support Matter over Thread, and can connect to HomeKit with a compatible Matter hub. In Apple's ecosystem, that includes the Apple TV, the HomePod, or the HomePod mini. GE is offering multiple width options up to 38 inches, in lengths up to 76 inches. GE says that the motor that powers the shades is "whisper quiet." An included magnetic rechargeable battery will last for up to six months before it needs to be recharged. The GE Smart Shades can be purchased from Amazon or the GE website as of today. Pricing starts at $299 and goes up to $370 for blackout versions and larger sizes.Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums10:46 pmRecommended solution to implement SMS to clients
Hi folks, I’ve been working on an app that’s very nearing completion. Think of it like an invoice sort of thing. Upon the app user completing certain options within the app, and having their customer co sign this sort of, invoice, there is an option in my app, to send this completed document to the […]10:39 pmSMS Delivery Delays to Tigo in Colombia
Jan 6, 14:39 PSTInvestigating - We are experiencing SMS delivery delays when sending messages to Tigo in Colombia. Our engineers are working with our carrier partner to resolve the issue. We will provide another update in 1 hour or as soon as more information becomes available.10:30 pmmacOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 double 5GHz Wi-Fi bandwidth for Wi-Fi 6E devices
Apple has quietly enhanced Wi-Fi performance on certain Wi-Fi 6E-compatible Macs and iPads with the release of macOS Tahoe 26.2 and… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.10:08 pmCES 2026: SwitchBot Announces Household Robot, Matter Smart Lock and More
SwitchBot, known for its Matter-enabled smart vacuums and other smart home products, today introduced the Onero H1, a robot that is meant to automate household chores. The AI robot has a rolling base, a tube-shaped body, and flexible arms. SwitchBot says that it is designed to learn, adapt, and work in coordination with existing SwitchBot robots like vacuums. It does not have a single function, and is instead meant to adapt to multiple cleaning scenarios. The Onero H1 combines visual perception, depth awareness, and tactile feedback to understand an object's position, shape, and interaction states, which SwitchBot claims is important for contact-intensive household tasks. It can grasp, push, open, and organize, though SwitchBot has not detailed specific tasks that it can complete. SwitchBot is showing off the robot at CES, and says it will be available for pre-order soon. Along with the H1, SwitchBot is debuting the AI MindClip, a voice-based knowledge engine that records meetings, conversations, and everyday moments. Integrated AI provides structured summaries, to-do lists, and a searchable personal knowledge base. SwitchBot says the MindClip is meant to serve as a "second brain," and with a subscription-based AI cloud service, it allows users to pull up past discussions and reminders on-demand. SwitchBot is also debuting the Lock Vista Series, a Matter-compatible smart lock that integrates with Apple Home and offers facial recognition capabilities for unlocking a door hands-free. It has DualPower and DualBackup systems with a high-capacity rechargeable battery and a long-life backup battery. A separate Lock Vista Pro also includes palm vein recognition capabilities as an alternative biometric option. Other SwitchBot products being shown off at CES include the SwitchBot Weather Station with a 7.5-inch e-ink display and built-in sensors, and the Obboto, an expressive globe light that uses AI to offer music visualization and mood animations through 2,900 integrated LEDs. It is able to display time and weather through light patterns, and it provides interactive pixel art and ambiance modes for sleep, focus, and relaxation. More information about SwitchBot's upcoming devices can be found on the SwitchBot website.Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums09:49 pmPluribus had many alternate titles, here’s ‘the worst one of all’ per Vince Gilligan
Pluribus season 1 is over, and in an interview creator Vince Gilligan gave during the show’s run, he revealed how hard it was to land on the meaning-filled final title. more…09:44 pmMade my first dollar yesterday
I've been working on a small iOS app on the side, mostly nights and weekends, with zero expectations. No ads, no big launch, no audience. Just building, fixing bugs, and hoping someone out there would find it usetul. Yesterday, I finally made my first dollar – literally a dollar. Well, that was before Apple had […]09:38 pmSubscribitions waiting for review?
I am using Superwall for managing my paywalls, I created my subscriptions in App Store Connect but they are in a “waiting for review state” they have been like this for a month. As a result I can’t see the subscription pricing or details in the paywalls while testing the app. Any ideas on how […]09:37 pmShortcuts “When App is Opened” automation loops forever if I open the app again — how does One Sec avoid this? | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingShortcuts “When App is Opened” automation loops forever if I open the app again — how does One Sec avoid this?
I’m building an iOS app similar to One Sec: when a user opens a selected app (ex: Instagram), I show a short delay screen (5s), then let them continue. Current setup: Shortcuts Automation: “When Instagram is opened” → run my AppIntent (opens my app to show the delay UI) After the delay, user taps “Continue” […]09:34 pmCES 2026: Senso Is a Smart Plant Sensor With an AI Tamagotchi
Senso is a gamified plant sensor that's designed to use AI to improve plant care. It is supposed to track soil moisture, temperature, and light exposure data in real time, and there is a little pixel creature that delivers AI insights. The pixel creature awakens once the sensor is placed in soil, and users can complete daily and weekly plant care missions to collect rewards and unlock new characters. The sensor has a modular design with different depth options, and multiple sensors for multiple plants can be combined. The AI and an accompanying app are meant to adapt to provide accurate readings across different plant species and pot types. The device supports voice-based AI interactions, so you can ask it questions to get responses from a "friendly plant expert." Senso is being shown off at CES 2026, but it is not an actual product yet. It is set to launch on Kickstarter in the near future. Pricing has not been announced.Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums09:06 pmCES 2026: Intel Unveils 18A-Based Core Ultra Series 3 Chips Amid Rumors of Future Apple Partnership | MacRumorsCES 2026: Intel Unveils 18A-Based Core Ultra Series 3 Chips Amid Rumors of Future Apple Partnership
Intel introduced its latest processors at CES 2026, debuting the "Panther Lake" Intel Core Ultra Series 3. The chips are the most advanced manufactured in the U.S., according to Intel, and they are built on Intel's 18A process. 18A, or 18-angstrom, is the most advanced node Intel has designed to date, but Intel continues to trail TSMC. TSMC is developing Apple's next-generation 2nm chips, and they are expected to have higher transistor density and efficiency than Intel's 18A chips. Intel is developing several chips in the Ultra Series 3 line for both high-end and low-end laptops, with the top SKUs offering up to 16 CPU cores, 12 Xe cores (Intel's graphics architecture), and 50 NPU TOPS. Compared to prior-generation chips, Intel claims the Ultra Series 3 processors will bring up to 77 percent faster gaming performance, 60 percent better multithreaded performance, and up to 27 hours of battery life. Apple doesn't use Intel chips anymore, so the new Core Ultra Series 3 processors will be exclusive to PCs, but there are rumors that Intel could manufacture some Apple chips in the future. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Intel will make lower-end M-series chips for Apple's Macs built on the 18A process, using Apple chip designs. Intel could begin shipping chips to Apple as soon as mid-2027. The first laptops powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 chips debuted at CES 2026, with more coming throughout the first half of the year.Tags: CES 2026, IntelThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums09:05 pmApple TV has long-delayed thriller series returning this week
Tehran is one of Apple TV’s longest running thriller series, but you may have never heard of it because for years, the new season’s release has been delayed. Recently though, Apple announced that Tehran season 3 is finally about to premiere, and there’s even a season 4 on the way. more…09:05 pmApple TV has long-delayed thriller series returning this week
Tehran is one of Apple TV’s longest running thriller series, but you may have never heard of it because for years, the new season’s release has been delayed. Recently though, Apple announced that Tehran season 3 is finally about to premiere, and there’s even a season 4 on the way. more…09:05 pmApple TV has long-delayed thriller series returning this week
Tehran is one of Apple TV’s longest running thriller series, but you may have never heard of it because for years, the new season’s release has been delayed. Recently though, Apple announced that Tehran season 3 is finally about to premiere, and there’s even a season 4 on the way. more…09:05 pmApple TV has long-delayed thriller series returning this week
Tehran is one of Apple TV’s longest running thriller series, but you may have never heard of it because for years, the new season’s release has been delayed. Recently though, Apple announced that Tehran season 3 is finally about to premiere, and there’s even a season 4 on the way. more…09:05 pmApple TV has long-delayed thriller series returning this week
Tehran is one of Apple TV’s longest running thriller series, but you may have never heard of it because for years, the new season’s release has been delayed. Recently though, Apple announced that Tehran season 3 is finally about to premiere, and there’s even a season 4 on the way. more…09:00 pmApple tests Background Security Improvements in iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and macOS Tahoe 26.3 | Mac Daily NewsApple tests Background Security Improvements in iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and macOS Tahoe 26.3
Apple is currently testing a Background Security Improvement update, a feature originally introduced in iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.08:48 pmApple lays important groundwork for stronger iPhone security
Apple began testing Background Security Improvements, which aim to provide additional security between iPhone and Mac software updates. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)08:24 pmCES 2026: LG 6K Monitor, New Qi2.2 Chargers and AI Products Everywhere
It's day two of CES, and MacRumors videographer Dan Barbera has another video highlighting new and upcoming tech products that were showcased at media events. Today's video features new displays from LG, the latest Qi2.2 chargers, robots, and more. Subscribe to the MacRumors YouTube channel for more videos. LG announced multiple new TVs and displays at its CES 2026 event, and showed off some older tech. Last year's 32-inch UltraFine Evo 6K monitor was on display, and of all LG's displays, this one looks like it was made for macOS. Text is crisp, the scale is perfect, Thunderbolt 5 is supported, and the NanoIPS panel provides deeper blacks and better contrast than a standard IPS panel. There were a couple new gaming displays, including a 27-inch tandem OLED monitor with a 720Hz refresh rate, and a 52-inch 5K 240Hz display that LG says is the world's largest gaming monitor. LG also showed off new OLED TVs, microRGB TVs for improved color accuracy, and a frame TV option to match the Sony Frame TV. And of course all of the TVs have new AI features. At Pepcom, MCON had a $145 ultra portable gaming controller designed for the iPhone. It uses MagSafe to snap to the back of an iPhone, and it includes full-size joysticks, tactile buttons, triggers, and fold-out grips. MCON actually showed off the controller last year, but now it's ready to ship out in late January. Aukey was showing off the MagFusion Ark, a modular wireless charger that supports 25W Qi2.2 charging. The Ark has a 6-in-1 design with a base that can charge up to three devices, plus three detachable power bank spheres for charging on the go. The $150 MagFusion DeskHive is an all-new charger from Aukey, featuring a 25W wireless charging puck for an iPhone plus two built-in retractable USB-C cables. It includes a digital display that shows real-time power output for each port, and a USB-C port that offers up to 140W charging. Both Aukey chargers are coming in the second quarter of 2026. AGIBOT debuted a humanoid robot that was walking around the show floor and interacting with attendees. InnAIO, a company that sells an AI voice cloning device, had a portrait featuring an AI version of Vincent van Gogh that talked to attendees. It was just one of many borderline creepy AI products that made an appearance. Ambient highlighted the $250 Dreamie, a bedside sleep companion that provides an alarm, a soft light for a sunrise wakeup, and audio soundscapes to listen to so you can ditch your phone at night. Tonies was showing off its next-generation box with improved sound quality, longer battery life, better connectivity, and a refreshed design. It's also more responsive and interactive. Satechi showed off the $400 Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock, which looks a lot like the Mac mini. It has multiple Thunderbolt 5 ports and everything else you could need, including an SSD enclosure that supports up to 8TB. Twelve South was at Pepcom to promote the $180 Valet, a Qi2 charger that also serves as a catchall tray. Aeroband was demonstrating its $429 wireless electric guitar, which has nine built-in tones, a built-in speaker, and multiple drum loops. Skylight introduced its Smart Calendar 2 with brightness improvements and new AI features. It can scan photos and import the info into the calendar, and you can also take pictures of what's in your fridge to add items to the meal section of the calendar. We'll be covering more CES highlights throughout the week, so make sure to stay tuned, and check out our CES 2026 hub for all of our coverage.Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums08:11 pmDell goes big with UltraSharp 52 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor
Dell's UltraSharp 52 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor is a massive display that aims to be better than a dual-display setup, and simultaneously supports up to four PCs and Macs, too.Dell UltraSharp 52 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor - Image Credit: DellWhile generally associated with PCs, Dell has a decent lineup of monitors that are usually a good option for Mac users. With its latest introduction, Dell is thinking big.As the name implies, the Dell UltraSharp 52 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor is a massive display. At 52 inches, it's big enough to take the physical space of two, or even three, smaller screens. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums07:39 pmUse Apple Health to track your mental well-being
Simply log how you feel throughout the day, and your iPhone's built-in mood tracker will help you ID what’s troubling you. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)07:33 pmApple releases iOS 26.3 security test for beta users, details here
If you’re running the iOS 26.3 beta, Apple has just released a new security update you can install. But there’s a catch: rather than including fixes, the update is simply testing out a new system. Here are the details. more…07:25 pmSave $250 on Apple's M4 MacBook Air with 32GB RAM
With memory prices increasing in the tech space, these deals on Apple's M4 MacBook Air with a bump up to 32GB of RAM are especially enticing.Save $250 on two 13-inch MacBook Air configs with 32GB RAM.Apple Authorized Reseller B&H Photo is knocking $250 off two popular 13-inch MacBook Air configurations that sport 32GB of unified memory.Save $250 on select M4 MacBook Airs Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums07:23 pmSMS Delivery Delays to Multiple Networks in US via a subset of Short Codes
Jan 6, 11:23 PSTInvestigating - We are experiencing SMS delivery delays when sending messages to multiple networks in US via a subset of Short Codes. Our engineers are working with our carrier partner to resolve the issue. We will provide another update in 1 hour or as soon as more information becomes available.07:20 pmNew Soundcore earbuds morph between open-ear awareness and immersive sound
With Soundcore AeroFit 2 Pro earbuds, you can physically adjust them to hear surroundings or dive deep into sound with noise cancellation. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)07:12 pmHow to implement sheet with fully flexible height?
I would like to have something similar in this video : https://www.youtube.com/shorts/aSVITfDzMts ; A fully flexible height sheet. If I am having a standard SwiftUI implementation, the sheet's height can only stay in 2 states – medium or large. Here's the sample code. import SwiftUI struct ContentView: View { private var isSheetPresented = false var […]07:12 pmApple TV’s axed series ‘The Last Frontier’ continues to dominate global streaming charts | Mac Daily NewsApple TV’s axed series ‘The Last Frontier’ continues to dominate global streaming charts
At the dawn of 2026, Apple TV+'s recently canceled thriller "The Last Frontier" is defying expectations by maintaining a strong presence… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.07:01 pmInnovative ByteSize iPhone SSD boasts fingerprint security, Find My tracking
Unlock your iPhone's potential with the BMX ByteSize SSD, adding up to 2TB of blazing-fast storage for high-res video and other files (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)06:55 pmHow Tahoe’s Menu Icons Undermine Usability
Software engineer Nikita Prokopov uses Apple’s 1992 Macintosh Human Interface Guidelines to show how macOS 26 Tahoe’s menu icons violate fundamental usability principles—increasing visual search time and error rates, especially for users with low vision.Read original article06:55 pmDell announces massive 52-inch 6K display with Thunderbolt
As part of CES 2026 this week, Dell today unveiled what it says is the “world’s first 52-inch 6K monitor.” The new Dell UltraSharp 52 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor features a 52-inch ultra wide curved display. That equates to 129 pixel-per-inch density. more…06:44 pmApple Tests Background Security Updates in iOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3
Apple is testing a Background Security Improvement feature that first rolled out in iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS Tahoe 26.1. Developers and public beta testers who are running iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, or macOS Tahoe 26.3 can install a new Background Security Improvement update for testing purposes. According to Apple, Background Security Improvements provide additional security protections between software updates for Safari, WebKit, and other system libraries. Background Security Improvements can be installed by going to the Privacy and Security section of the Settings app, scrolling down, and selecting the "Install" option. If Automatically Install is toggled on, Background Security Improvements will be automatically installed when they come out. Apple says that users who opt not to install the Background Security Improvements will receive the updates in a standard software update. Apple previously had a Rapid Security Response update feature for delivering security improvements, but it wasn't used often after it was introduced in iOS 16, and was ultimately phased out in favor of Background Security Improvements. At one point in 2023, there was a Rapid Security Response bug that prevented some websites from displaying properly. Apple warns that Background Security Updates can result in "rare instances of compatibility issues." Should that occur, the updates may be temporarily removed and enhanced in a subsequent software update.This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums06:42 pmIncreased load and 429 errors in function invocations
Jan 6, 10:42 PSTInvestigating - Our engineers began investigating an issue with . Users may experience errors when invoking functions and/or assets. We will provide another update in 1 hour or as soon as more information becomes available.06:37 pmUnlisted Distribution Process
I am building and distributing an app that is specific to a group and only usable by a local group in my area. I did not know about Unlisted Distribution at first so my initial app review was rejected because the app wouldn’t be usable to the general public. Understandable. The reviewer referred me to […]06:24 pmCES 2026: Birdbuddy Debuts New Smart Bird Feeders
Birdbuddy debuted two new smart bird feeders, which are successors to its existing bird feeder options. The Birdbuddy 2 and the Birdbuddy 2 mini are set to launch later this year. The $199 Birdbuddy 2 features 2K HDR video, a wider field of view, dual integrated solar power, better audio, an improved extended perch, and more seed capacity. It was shown off earlier this year, and pre-orders have sold out, but it is set to launch in February 2026. There is a redesigned circular camera housing with options for mounting the camera in portrait or landscape orientation, and slow-motion recording is available. For the first time, an included microphone can record and identify birdsongs, with species identification taking into account audio. The $129 Birdbuddy 2 Mini has the same core camera technology as the Birdbuddy 2, but it comes in a simpler enclosure that's designed for first time smart bird feeder users and those with smaller yards or balconies. It has a smaller seed capacity, but comes with an easy-refill roof. A solar panel is an optional add-on. The Birdbuddy 2 Mini will be available for order around mid-2026, with a launch to follow later in the year. Birdbuddy is also showcasing the Petal Smart Nature Camera, which was introduced on Kickstarter last year. It is designed to identify birds and insects, and it can be placed anywhere outdoors. Petal cameras are set to ship out this summer. More information is available on the Birdbuddy website.Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums06:22 pmNew MacBook accessory adds touch support to your display
The first touch-enabled Mac is rumored to launch later this year, but a new third-party ‘Magic Screen’ accessory says it can bring touch to existing MacBook Air and MacBook Pro displays. more…06:05 pmKentucky launches new mobile ID app, Apple Wallet support coming soon
Kentucky today launched its new Kentucky mobile ID app for iPhone, allowing residents to access a digital version of their ID. While the app itself is available on the App Store starting today, there’s a big upgrade coming this summer: support for storing your Kentucky ID in Apple Wallet. more…06:02 pmBest of CES 2026: All of the weird, wild, and wonderful reveals from the biggest show in tech | 9 to 5 MacBest of CES 2026: All of the weird, wild, and wonderful reveals from the biggest show in tech
CES 2026 – the biggest tech event of the year is now in full swing on the strip in Las Vegas with a countless number of new product reveals and wild new concepts. From desktop hologram machines and the new smart LEGO bricks, chargers that turn your phone into an AI robot assistant, the latest e-bikes, solar-powered gazebos, smart goggles, and the latest in electric vehicle tech, CES knows no bounds. We have collected all of the wildest and most intriguing reveals from the show from across our network for your browsing pleasure below. more…06:02 pmYou can save $100 on the iPad mini at Amazon right now
Macworld If you’ve been thinking about spending your holiday gift cards on a new iPad, the iPad mini is a fantastic option, with an ultraportable design and powerful processor. And it doesn’t hurt that it’s 20 percent off at Amazon today, which means you can get one for $399, a savings of $100, and the best price we’ve seen since Black Friday. What separates the iPad mini from other tablets is its screen. While the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro all have 11-inch displays, the iPad mini has an 8.3-inch display that is large enough to comfortably do just about anything but small and light enough to slide into any bag and even some pockets. Otherwise, it can do just about anything a larger iPad can do, with an A17 Pro chip powerful enough to support Apple Intelligence. We gave the iPad mini a 4-star rating when we reviewed it and loved the performance, size, and battery life. And it only got better with iPadOS 26 in the fall. So grab this Apple iPad mini A17 Pro for $399 before the deal expires and enjoy everything this super portable tablet has to offer. Buy now at Amazon06:00 pmNew portable monitor offers high quality at an affordable price
Get high-quality performance and value with the Espresso Lite 15 portable monitor for your MacBook or iPad. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)05:39 pmNew iPhone with 200MP camera gets release timing update
Cameras are among the iPhone’s most important features, and a new report indicates there’s a huge 200MP camera leap coming in 2028. more…05:37 pmIntricuit's Magic Screen adds touch support to the MacBook Pro display
Accessory startup Intricuit aims to make the touch-enabled MacBook Pro a reality, with a crowdfunded campaign for a screen overlay.The Intricuit Magic Screen on a MacBook Pro - Image Credit: IntricuitApple has long been rumored to be working on a form of touchscreen MacBook Pro, despite repeated public denials on the subject. While an official release is still a far-off dream, a start-up is attempting to make it a reality.The team at Intricuit has used CES 2026 to show its own solution, the Magic Screen for the current-gen MacBook Pro. It claims to be the first "snap-on touchscreen" for the MacBook lineup, adding touch capabilities to the notebook. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums05:33 pmSatechi Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock has SSD bay & fast charging
Satechi has unveiled its first Thunderbolt 5 docking station at CES 2026, introducing a cube-shaped desktop hub with an integrated NVMe SSD enclosure.Satechi's Thunderbolt 5 CubeDockThe Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock expands Satechi's desktop accessory lineup and marks the company's first product built around Intel's latest high-bandwidth docking standard. The dock is part of a broader CES 2026 push that also includes a new Thunderbolt 5 Pro Cable, with additional office accessories planned later in the year.While not Mac-exclusive, the CubeDock is designed to align closely with modern Apple Silicon workflows. Satechi highlights native macOS support for high-resolution displays and power delivery without relying on DisplayLink software. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums05:32 pmSatechi's Slim EX are low-profile wireless keyboards for cross-platform work
These Satechi Slim EX accessories are designed for seamless use across macOS, Windows, Android, and iPadOS, with an emphasis on portability and fast multi-device switching.Satechi's new Slim EX keyboards and mouseThe Slim EX Series consists of two wireless keyboards designed for different desk setups. The Slim EX3 Wireless Keyboard uses a full-size layout with a numpad and dedicated navigation keys, while the Slim EX1 Wireless Keyboard adopts a more compact form factor aimed at travel and smaller workspaces.Both keyboards use scissor-switch keys and a powder-coated metal base, pairing a slim profile with a rigid, desktop-oriented feel. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums05:27 pmTop Apple product deals on Amazon right now (January 2026)
As we kick off 2026, Amazon is offering some impressive post-holiday discounts on popular Apple products. While Apple rarely slashes prices… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.05:25 pmVoice Insights customers are not able to consume events for Call Insights Event Stream.
Jan 6, 09:25 PSTInvestigating - Our engineers began investigating an issue with Voice Insights customers that are not able to consume events for Call Insights Event Stream. We will provide another update in 1 hour or as soon as more information becomes available.05:16 pmHP just outdid Apple with its new HP EliteBoard G1a Next Gen AI PC
Macworld For obvious reasons, we here at Macworld don’t cover Windows PCs, except when there’s a PC that’s unique enough to make us wonder why Apple didn’t think of it. That just happened with the new HP EliteBoard G1a Next Gen AI PC, which was announced at the Consumer Electronics Show. HP designed this PC so that the computer itself is housed within the keyboard. Yes, you read that correctly: the CPU, GPU, RAM, SSD, and all the other parts that make a computer a computer are in the keyboard. All you have to do is connect it to a USB-C display, and you’re all set. The EliteBoard has a 140W Thunderbolt 4 port, so it gets its power from the connected display. A wireless mouse is also included. That’s pretty cool in and of itself. But HP takes it one step further by providing an option for a 32W internal battery. Why? So you can move the EliteBoard without shutting down the computer completely. That’s useful in production situations. There’s a whole computer inside that keyboard.HP If you’re thinking, “That keyboard must be pretty dang thick,” well, it’s actually only 12mm, thinner than a lot of mechanical switch keyboards. Apple’s Magic Keyboard is 10.9mm at its thickest point, so the EliteBoard isn’t much bigger. And it only weighs 1.7 pounds (768 grams), less than a MacBook. The one glaring issue with the EliteBoard is connectivity options. Since it has only one Thunderbolt 4 port, it relies on the display to provide a hub for connecting external storage devices, cameras, audio gear, etc. That means you need to make sure the display you pair with it has all the ports you need. It’s not a big deal in most general situations, but if, say, you have an elaborate audio setup to make music, your display may not have enough ports for all of your gear. The EliteBoard is a cool idea that makes me wonder why Apple didn’t think of it, because it seems to be possible to make a Mac built into a keyboard. After all, if you open up an iMac, you’ll find a lot of empty space, and the logic board is basically a small strip along the bottom of the display. Seems like those parts can easily fit into the base of a keyboard. If thermal integrity is an issue, perhaps Apple could use an iPhone chip and sell it as a cheap desktop Mac. I’d buy it. For now, we’ll have to settle for Windows. HP says the EliteBoard is “coming soon,” and hasn’t announced any pricing information.05:01 pmSatechi CubeDock combines Thunderbolt 5 connectivity with up to 8TB SSD expansion
Satechi's newest Thudnderbolt 5 dock — the CubeDock — stands out with its cube-shaped design and integrated NVMe SSD slot. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)05:00 pmHello Developer: January 2026
We‘re hitting the ground running in 2026. In this edition: A special SwiftUI activity in Cupertino. More ways to connect with us about Liquid Glass. A snappy video recap of Apple design resources. All-new Develop in Swift Tutorials. A new article about taking full advantage of foundation models. Read the full story05:00 pmCES 2026: Satechi Launches Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock
Satechi today announced its first Thunderbolt 5 product, a dock that has an included SSD enclosure for adding storage. The Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock with SSD Enclosure supports high-resolution multiple display setups, offering 80Gb/s bi-directional bandwidth with 120Gb/s Bandwidth Boost. The Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock has a 5x5x2-inch form factor, and it is designed from aluminum to match Apple devices. It includes a 180W power supply with 140W host charging, so it is able to work with Apple's largest laptops. It also includes 30W PD power for smartphones and tablets. At the front of the CubeDock, there's a 30W/10Gb/s USB-C port, a headphone jack, a 10Gb/s USB-A port, an SD card slot, and a microSD card slot. The back features three downstream Thunderbolt 5 ports, a port for the power supply, a Thunderbolt 5 port to connect to a computer, a 10Gb/s USB-C port, a 10Gb/s USB-A port, and a 2.5Gb Ethernet port. There is an integrated NVMe SSD enclosure that supports up to 8TB at 6000MB/s. There is an active cooling system that Satechi says is "whisper quiet" for optimal performance during heavy workloads. The CubeDock supports up to three 8K displays with 60Hz refresh rates on Windows PCs, or two 6K 60Hz displays on Macs. Multiple 4K displays with high refresh rates are supported as well. Satechi is also debuting a new Thunderbolt 5 Pro cable that supports 80Gb/s bidirectional data transfer, 240W power delivery, and dual 8K 60Hz displays. The Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock can be pre-ordered from Satechi for $400, and it is set to ship in the first quarter of 2026. The Thunderbolt 5 Pro Cable is available now for $40.Tags: CES 2026, SatechiThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums04:57 pmiPhone will get 200MP cameras in 2028, says Morgan Stanley
Researchers from investment bank Morgan Stanley say Apple will add Samsung's 200MP cameras to the iPhone in 2028, and also add suppliers to potentially reduce costs.The rear cameras on Pro iPhone models are likely to get high-resolution sensors first. It's been expected that Apple will move to 200MP cameras in the iPhone at some point, and it's even been predicted that this will be in time for the iPhone 18 range.However, according to a note to investors by Morgan Stanley, seen by AppleInsider, it will be the iPhone 21 that first gains a 200MP camera. This is partly to make sure supplies are diversified instead of reliant on a single source. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums04:55 pmPrice drop: This keychain charging cable will save your bacon
This 8-in-1 EDC gadget is designed for anyone who needs fast charging. Save on a keychain charging cable with USB-C and Lightning. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)04:46 pmiOS 26 gave Apple Music three of my favorite new features in years
Apple Music took a big leap forward this year in iOS 26, adding a bunch of new features, three of which have quickly become some of my favorite additions in years. more…04:45 pmDeals: iPhone 16 Pro $620 off, Apple Watch Ultra 2 $250 off, black Trail Loop, Powerbeats Fit, more | 9 to 5 MacDeals: iPhone 16 Pro $620 off, Apple Watch Ultra 2 $250 off, black Trail Loop, Powerbeats Fit, more
Joining a fresh batch of new reveals at CES 2026 you can find right here, today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break has some new discounts to scope out as well. Firstly, we are looking at up to $620 off the original price on iPhone 16 Pro units at Amazon alongside even deeper deals on iPad mini at $110 off. Those offers also join Apple Watch Ultra 2 models at up to $250 off, a new Amazon all-time low on Apple’s latest black Trail Loop in size medium/large, and deals on the latest Beats Powerbeats Fit. Scope it all out below. more…04:40 pmSuper-slim MagSafe power banks take the stage at CES 2026
Discover three sleek, newly announced iPhone power banks for charging on the go. Fast wireless charging without the bulk. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)04:36 pmApple's 2026 hardware pricing is under intense pressure from memory & chip inflation
While Apple hasn't done anything yet, the company is heading into 2026 with dramatically escalating memory and chip costs, as it aims to keep product pricing steadier than rivals.MacBook ProThe issue matters for Apple users because component inflation often shows up in storage tiers, memory upgrades, and configuration pricing. Macs are especially exposed since memory and storage choices are fixed at purchase.Morgan Stanley's note to investors, seen by AppleInsider, is based on recent supply-chain conversations rather than company guidance. The supply chain checks that the firm did in Taiwan point to tightening supply and higher input costs across phones, PCs, and servers. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums04:25 pmCES 2026: Snap-On Accessory Adds Touch Display to Your MacBook
Apple has historically resisted the idea of touchscreen MacBooks, arguing that laptop PCs with the feature are unwieldy and far from ergonomic. But recent reports suggest Apple has changed its tune, and the company is now rumored to be developing a touchscreen MacBook Pro. In the meantime, startup Intricuit has been showcasing its own solution at CES 2026 that brings touchscreen to existing MacBooks with Apple silicon. The Magic Screen is a snap-on digitizer that aligns to your MacBook's display using the built-in magnets that let your Mac know when the lid is closed to trigger sleep mode. After connecting it via a single USB-C cable, the tempered glass layer supports the gamut of gestures we've come to associate with smartphones – tapping, swiping, and zooming with your fingers directly on the screen. In a nod to the iPad and Apple Pencil, the Magic Screen also comes with its own stylus that supports pressure sensitivity and stylus hover for drawing, writing, manipulating objects, and navigation. The company has shown off the touchscreen in action with apps like SketchUp, Miro, and Resolume Arena. It also supports iPhone Mirroring, allowing you to interact with iOS apps on your MacBook display with your fingers. The Magic Screen includes a built-in battery that Intricuit says works for up to 100 hours on a single charge, and it comes with a Folio Case that also folds into a stand that braces against the MacBook screen to reduce wobble. When removed from the MacBook display, the device also doubles as a standalone drawing tablet. As for Apple's plans, a report by industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the company's first OLED MacBook Pro will feature a touchscreen display. Kuo made the remarks in September 2025, and the claim has since been corroborated by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, who added that the touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro will retain a full trackpad and keyboard. According to Kuo, the OLED panel will use on-cell touch technology, which integrates the touch sensors directly into the display panel's top layer (the "cell") rather than requiring a separate, dedicated touch layer like the Magic Screen. The analyst added that the shift "appears to reflect Apple's long-term observation of iPad user behavior, indicating that in certain scenarios, touch controls can enhance both productivity and the overall user experience." M6 MacBook Pro: Release Date, Pricing, and What to Expect The reports suggest Apple is aiming to launch its first touchscreen MacBook Pro as soon as late 2026 or early 2027. Meanwhile, Intricuit says the Magic Screen is compatible with all MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models powered by Apple silicon, and that it will soon be available on Kickstarter, with shipping on track to begin in the first quarter of this year. Does the idea of a touchscreen display on a Mac appeal to you? Let us know in the comments. Tag: CES 2026This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums04:14 pmYou can finally bid on a strange assortment of Steve Jobs' personal effects
Steve Jobs' childhood ephemera has hit the auction block, revealing an almost unsettlingly intimate window into the Apple co-founder's early life.Image credit: RR AuctionRRAuction is currently hosting its Steve Jobs & the Computer Revolution: The Apple 50th Anniversary Auction. The auction is poised to be a big score for Apple collectors — but not for the usual reasons.We're no strangers to Apple auctions. They come up pretty regularly, and the items encased are pretty much what you'd expect. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums04:07 pmAcorn review: A powerful photo-editing tools at a remarkably affordable price
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Bargain price No subscriptions required Powerful editing tools Universal app for Intel/Apple Silicon Cons Not much help for beginners Requires macOS 14 or later Our Verdict People who are new to photo-editing may prefer an app that provides a bit more help and guidance to get them started, but Acorn provides a variety of powerful editing tools at a price that’s hard to beat. As well as photo-editing, the app also includes some useful vector graphics tools, along with precise typographical controls – and just a sprinkling of AI as well. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed$29.99 Best Prices Today: Acorn Retailer Price Flying Meat $29.99 View Deal Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket With more and more software tools requiring monthly subscription payments it’s always good to see apps such as Acorn that simply charge a one-time fee that allows you to keep and use the app for as long as you want. Acorn was already sitting on our list of the best photo-editors for the Mac, and the latest version, Acorn 8 was recently listed by Apple as a Finalist for the 2025 App Store Awards. The price on the App Store is $29.99/£29.99, but you can also download Acorn 8 from the developers Flying Meat, and that version offers a 14-day free trial so that you can take a good look at the app before buying it. Acorn 8 is a universal binary that runs on Intel Macs or Apple Silicon, but you do need macOS 14 or later to run it properly. If you’re using Tahoe (macOS 26) then Acorn 8 gives you the choice of using its traditional ‘classic’ interface or switching to the new Liquid Glass look instead. But if you’re using an older version of the macOS then there’s an archive of previous versions of Acorn still available that you can try in order to see how they run on your Mac – although, of course, these won’t include the latest features that are available in Acorn 8. As well as its photo-editing tools, Acorn includes a variety of precise typographical controls, including the ability to run text along a path. Flying Meat Acorn 8 certainly offers good value for money, as it includes impressive range of photo-editing tools that can match many of its more expensive rivals. There’s a simple palette on the left-hand side of the main editing window – known as the Canvas – which provides quick access to a standard set of editing tools, including rectangular, elliptical and freeform Selection tools, and a Magic Wand for automatically selecting areas by colour. And, as well as a conventional Crop tool, Acorn also includes a Perspective Fix option for cropping photos that have perspective or distortion problems. You can use the Paint or Pencil tools to sketch in a few details of your own, but Acorn also includes some useful vector graphics tools for drawing shapes such as rectangles, ovals and arrows. Version 8 introduced a new Polygon tool that allows you to freely create multi-sided shapes, and there’s a Bezier Pen for more experienced artists who want to create simple illustrations by hand. Selecting any of these tools activates a second palette on the right-hand side of the Canvas, which provides additional controls for each tool, such as precise typographic controls for the Text tools, or the ability to adjust the size and style of the Paint brush in order to create different brush effects. New AI features include Select Subject, which can precisely select the subject in the foreground on a photo and separate it from the background. Flying Meat As you’d expect, there’s an extensive selection of filters and effects that you can use to liven up your photos and, of course, there are new AI features as well. Acorn 8 doesn’t go overboard with its use of AI, but it does provide a Super Resolution upscaling feature that can increase the size and resolution of smaller images without losing clarity or details. There’s also an AI Select Subject tool that automatically selects the foreground subject in a photo and allows you to lift it away from the background. This works really well, quickly and easily lifting out detailed elements from a photo or, alternatively, you can use the Mask Subject tool to reverse this process and completely remove the background while leaving the foreground subject on its own. Most of these tools are quick and easy to use, but using more advanced features, such as masks and layers, does reveal the one weakness of Acorn 8. The app does seem to be aimed at more experienced users, and there’s not much help within the program for people who are new to photo-editing work. There are extensive Help files on the Acorn website, as well as some video tutorials, but these often just bombard you with long lists of features without explaining how they work – so if you don’t already know how the new LUT feature works (Look Up Tables) then Acorn’s Help files won’t enlighten you very much. Rivals such as Photoshop Elements do a better job of helping new users with its step-by-step Guided Edits. But, of course, Photoshop Elements is a lot more expensive – and now requires a subscription as well – so Acorn 8 is still excellent value for money, especially for experienced users who can dive straight in and make the most of its powerful tools. Should You Buy Acorn 8? We’d like to see Acorn provide more help for beginners, but it’s hard to criticise an app that provides so many powerful photo-editing tools at such a competitive price. Acorn 8 will particularly appeal to people who already have some experience of photo-editing work and need powerful tools without the never-ending cost of Adobe’s Creative Cloud subscriptions.04:07 pmToday in Apple history: Apple is back in the black
On January 6, 1998, Steve Jobs shocked Macworld Expo by revealing Cupertino's comeback. Apple was profitable again! (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)04:00 pmIndia’s iPhone exports go from zero to $50 billion in 5 years
India has achieved a significant milestone in global technology manufacturing by exporting iPhones valued at $50 billion over the last five… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.Firehose II – Jobs, Deals, Apps
- Wednesday January 07
- 02:28 amRefurbished 24-inch iMac Apple M4 Chip with 10-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU, Gigabit Ethernet- Silver – FCR24LL/A – $1,609.00 | Refurb TrackerRefurbished 24-inch iMac Apple M4 Chip with 10-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU, Gigabit Ethernet- Silver – FCR24LL/A – $1,609.00
Refurbished 24-inch iMac Apple M4 Chip with 10-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU, Gigabit Ethernet- Silver – FCR24LL/A $1,609.00 $1,899.00 −15% Originally released October 2024 24-inch 4.5K Retina display² 24GB unified memory 512GB SSD¹ 12MP Center Stage camera with support for Desk View Four Thunderbolt 4 ports Gigabit Ethernet Product page on the Apple Store…Monday January 0506:21 pmApple’s 14-inch M5-powered MacBook Pros with 16GB of RAM on sale for $200 off MSRP, starting at $1399 | MacPrices.netApple’s 14-inch M5-powered MacBook Pros with 16GB of RAM on sale for $200 off MSRP, starting at $1399
Amazon is offering $200 discounts on new 14" M5 MacBook Pros with 16GB of memory, each including free shipping: - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB/Black): $1399, MSRP $1599 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB/Silver): $1399, MSRP $1599 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Black): $1599, MSRP $1799 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Silver): $1599, MSRP $1799 These are the lowest prices available for new M5 MacBook Pros right now. For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.05:28 pmAmazon has 15-inch M4 MacBook Airs on sale for $200 off Apple’s MSRP
Amazon has all 15" M4 MacBook Airs on sale for $200 off Apple's MSRP, starting at only $999. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party: - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $999, $200 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $1199, $200 off - 15" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB/): $1399, $200 off Their prices are the lowest available for new 15" M4 MacBook Airs anywhere. For the latest sales & prices, see our 15" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.12:17 pmRefurb Apple MacBook Pro M3 14.2″ Laptop (2023) for $1,029 + free shipping
It's the best deal we've seen for this model in any condition. It includes a 1-year Allstate warranty. Buy Now at eBaySunday January 0406:35 pmAmazon continues to offer 13-inch M4 MacBook Airs for as little as $799
Amazon has all 13" M4 MacBook Airs on sale for $200 off Apple's MSRP, starting at only $799. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party: - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $799, $200 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $999, $200 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB): $1199, $200 off These are the lowest 13-inch M4 MacBook Air prices currently available at Apple retailers. For the latest sales & prices see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.Saturday January 0306:46 pmB&H is offering a $200 discount on new 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pros
B&H Photo has 16-inch MacBook Pros with M4 Pro CPUs in stock right now and on sale for $200 off Apple's MSRP. B&H offers free 1-2 day shipping to most US addresses: - 16" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/512GB): $2299, $200 off MSRP - 16" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (48GB/512GB): $2699, $200 off MSRP These are among the lowest prices currently available for 16" M4 Pro MacBook Pros at Apple retailers. For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 16-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.Friday January 0201:04 amNew Years Sale: Take $250-$300 off Apple’s 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pros
Amazon has Apple's 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pros (Silver and Black colors) on New Years sale for $250-$300 off MSRP. Shipping is free. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party seller: - 14" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/512GB): $1749, $250 off MSRP - 14" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB): $2099, $300 off MSRP For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.Thursday January 0111:59 amUpdated MacBook Price Trackers
Our Apple award-winning MacBook Price Trackers are continually updated with the latest information on prices, bundles, and availability for 16" and 14" MacBook Pros along with 13" and 15" MacBook Airs from Apple's authorized online retailers. We include prices for open-box MacBooks that might be available as well. Current sales range up to $200+ off MSRP for new MacBook Airs and up to $400+ off MacBook Pros: - 16" MacBook Pros - 14" MacBook Pros - 15" MacBook Airs - 13" MacBook AirsMonday December 2903:33 pm14-inch M5 MacBook Pros on Holiday sale at B&H starting at $1449, up to $150 off Apple’s MSRP | MacPrices.net14-inch M5 MacBook Pros on Holiday sale at B&H starting at $1449, up to $150 off Apple’s MSRP
B&H Photo has new 14" M5 MacBook Pros on sale for up to $150 off MSRP as part of their ongoing Holiday sale. B&H offers free shipping to most US addresses (1-2 day is many cases): - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB/Black): $1449, MSRP $1599 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/512GB/Silver): $1449, MSRP $1599 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Black): $1649, MSRP $1799 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB/Silver): $1699, MSRP $1799 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB/Black): $1999, MSRP $1999 - 14" M5 MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB/Silver): $1899, MSRP $1999 For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.02:14 pmApple Watch Series 11 models on sale again for $100 off MSRP
Amazon is again offering a $100 discount on new Apple Watch Series 11 models as part of their Holiday sales. Shipping is free: - 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS: $299, save $100 - 46mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS: $329, save $100 - 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + 5G: $399, save $100 - 46mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + 5G: $429, save $100 These are the lowest prices available for Apple Watch Series 11 models. For the latest prices & sales, keep an eye on our Apple Watch Price Tracker, updated daily.01:51 pmApple AirPods Max on Holiday sale for $100 off MSRP
Amazon has AirPods Max with USB-C on sale for $449.99 in most colors. Shipping is free. Their price is $100 off Apple's MSRP, and it's the lowest price available for these AirPods among the retailers we track. Keep an eye on our AirPods Price Tracker for the latest prices and deals, updated daily.Sunday December 2804:58 pmTake $200 off 13-inch M4 MacBook Airs in Amazon’s latest Holiday Sale
Amazon has all 13" M4 MacBook Airs on Holiday sale for $200 off Apple's MSRP, starting at only $799. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party: - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $799, $200 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $999, $200 off - 13" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB): $1199, $200 off These are the lowest 13-inch M4 MacBook Air prices currently available at Apple retailers. For the latest sales & prices see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.Saturday December 2702:19 pmUpdated iPad Price Trackers
We've updated our Apple award-winning iPad Price Trackers with the latest information from Apple on 11th-generation A16 iPads as well as M3-powered 11" & 13" iPad Airs and the new M5-powered iPad Pros. We track prices from 20+ Apple retailers, including Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, B&H, and many more: - iPads - iPad minis - iPad Airs - iPad Pros You can also find the best price on an iPad accessory: - Apple Pencils - iPad Keyboards Our trackers are updated continuously with the very latest prices.02:07 pm8.3-inch iPad minis on sale for $100 off Apple’s MSRP
Amazon is offering $100 discounts (up to 20% off) on Apple's newest WiFi iPad minis, each with free shipping. These are the lowest prices available for new minis among the Apple retailers we track: - 8.3" 128GB WiFi iPad mini: $399, $100 off MSRP - 8.3" 256GB WiFi iPad mini: $499, $100 off MSRP - 8.3" 512GB WiFi iPad mini: $699, $100 off MSRP For the latest prices and sales, see our iPad mini Price Tracker, updated daily.01:05 pmRefurb Apple iPad Air 10.9″ 64GB WiFi Tablet (2022) for $310 + free shipping
That's $11 under our mention from last month, and the best price we've seen. A one-year Allstate warranty applies. Buy Now at eBayFriday December 2605:18 pm24-inch M4 iMacs on sale for up to $200 off MSRP
Amazon has Apple's 24-inch M4 iMacs on After-Christmas sale for $150-$200 off MSRP, starting at $1149, each including free shipping: - 24-inch M4 iMac (8-Core CPU, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD): $1149, $150 off MSRP - 24-inch M4 iMac (10-Core CPU, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD): $1349, $150 off MSRP - 24-inch M4 iMac (10-Core CPU, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD): $1549, $150 off MSRP - 24-inch M4 iMac (8-Core CPU, 24GB RAM, 512GB SSD): $1699, $200 off MSRP Amazon's prices are the lowest available for one of these new iMacs. Note that stock can vary. Price posted above is the lowest price available for each standard configuration, regardless of color. For the latest prices and deals, see our iMac Price Tracker, updated daily.04:01 pmMacBook Deals at Best Buy: Up to $400 off + free shipping
Shop a selection of MacBook Air and MacBook Pros and save up to $400 in this set of deals. Plus, you'll get free items with your purchase like free Apple Music for up to 3 months. Orders ship for free but if you want your new laptop sooner you can opt for pickup where available. Shop Now at Best Buy03:16 pmApple iPad Deals at Best Buy: Up to $200 off + free shipping
Shop a selection of Apple iPads and save up to $200. You'll find regular iPads as well as iPad Air models and iPad Pros in this set of deals so you can get exactly what you need. Plus, orders ship for free, though if you want your shiny new gadget sooner, you can opt for pickup where available. Shop Now at Best Buy02:10 pmAfter-Christmas Sale: Take $250-$300 off Apple’s 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pros
Amazon has Apple's 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pros (Silver and Black colors) on After-Christmas sale for $250-$300 off MSRP. Shipping is free. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party seller: - 14" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/512GB): $1749, $250 off MSRP - 14" M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB): $2099, $300 off MSRP For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.01:52 pmAfter-Christmas Sale: Apple Watch Series 3 models for $50 off MSRP
Amazon has Apple Watch SE 3 models on After-Christmas sale for $50 off MSRP, shipping included: - 40mm Apple Watch SE GPS: $199, $50 off MSRP - 44mm Apple Watch SE GPS: $229, $50 off MSRP - 40mm Apple Watch SE GPS + 5G: $249, $50 off MSRP - 44mm Apple Watch SE GPS + 5G: $279, $50 off MSRP These are the lowest After-Christmas sale prices available for Apple Watch SE 3 models. For the latest prices & deals, keep an eye on our Apple Watch Price Tracker, updated daily.01:43 pmAfter-Christmas Sale: M4 Mac minis on sale for up to $120 off MSRP
Amazon has M4 and M4 Pro Mac minis on sale starting at only $479 and ranging up to $120 off MSRP. Shipping is free: - Mac mini M4 (16GB/256GB): $479, $120 off MSRP - Mac mini M4 (16GB/512GB): $736.07, $63 off MSRP - Mac mini M4 (24GB/512GB): $909, $90 off MSRP - Mac mini M4 Pro (24GB/512GB): $1279, $120 off MSRP These are the lowest After-Christmas sale prices currently available for Mac minis. For the latest prices and sales, keep an eye on our Mac mini Price Tracker, updated daily.Monday December 2204:04 pm