iFixIt tears down the new MacBook Neo, likes (most of) what it sees Expectations had been running high regarding what iFixIt would find when it opened up the MacBook Neo. Here’s what it revealed.
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iFixit Teardown: MacBook Neo Has Most Accessible Mac Battery in Over a Decade Repair site iFixit did its traditional teardown on the MacBook Neo, and was pleasantly surprised with the laptop's repairability. "We haven't been as happy about a MacBook since 2012," says iFixit.
iFixit took apart the more expensive $699 version of the MacBook Neo that comes with a Touch ID keyboard, but both models are "suspiciously easy" to get into. The lower case is still held together with pentalobe screws, which are less common than standard screws and require a special screwdriver. The cover can be unclipped by hand, and inside, there's a "shockingly sensible" internal layout.
The battery, speakers, ports, and trackpad are easy to get to and not buried under another component like most Apple laptops. Rather than being attached with adhesive, the battery is screwed in, so it's simple to remove it for repair or replacement. There are 18 screws to undo, but iFixit says the lack of battery adhesive is the biggest MacBook Neo repair win.
iFixit believes Apple is preparing for an upcoming EU law that will require many portable devices to have user replaceable batteries by early 2027. Because of the regulation, we could see similar setups for batteries in future MacBook Air and Pro models.
y
There are a lot of cables to unplug to get to other components like the logic board, but it's all "pretty accessible" and not buried "just for the sake of being buried." RAM and storage are soldered to the A18 Pro chip, which is expected, but not a repairability win because it diminishes repairability and upgradeability. RAM and the SSD cannot be upgraded after purchase.
The USB-C ports are their own module instead of connected to the logic board, so damaged ports are able to be replaced without logic board repairs, and the same goes for the headphone jack. Antenna assembly removal is straightforward, which iFixit says will make screen replacements "significantly easier." With the antenna removed and the hinge screws off, the display "pops away as if it were a Framework laptop."
Apple used side-firing speakers in the MacBook Neo, which is a simplified setup with less chassis machining that probably let it save money, and a mechanical trackpad. It's the first MacBook to have a mechanical trackpad since 2015 because the mechanical setup is cheaper to produce. The keyboard was the last piece to come out in iFixit's teardown, and it was held in with 41 screws. It is possible to remove the keyboard separately from the top case by undoing all of those screws, which makes for more affordable repairs.
iFixit said that while the MacBook Neo isn't perfect because of the soldered storage and RAM, there's a "lot to like." It has the most accessible battery in a Mac since 2012, a display that's easy to swap out, and modular components like the USB-C ports and headphone jack. iFixit gave the MacBook Neo a repairability score of 6 out of 10. For comparison, the 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro earned a 4/10 and the M4 MacBook Air got a 5/10.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoTag: iFixitBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook NeoThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Emerging Service Issue – Networking in Washington, DC (US-IAD) Mar 13, 17:58 UTCInvestigating - Our team is investigating an emerging service issue affecting networking in our Washington, DC location (US-IAD). We will share additional updates as we have more information.
Spotify’s newest feature puts you in control of the music Spotify was early to the algorithmically recommended music game. Now the company is testing a feature that lets listeners have more direct input over what Spotify recommends. The feature is called Taste Profile, and it’s currently in beta.
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Perplexity wants Mac mini to be your AI project manager — here’s what to know Perplexity Personal Computer software can turn a Mac mini into a personal AI project manager. But should you give it access to your files?
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
MacRumors Giveaway: Win an iPhone 17 Pro and 25W Qi Charger From Lululook For this week's giveaway, we've teamed up with Lululook to offer MacRumors readers a chance to win an iPhone 17 Pro and a 25W Qi2.2 3-in-1 Charger from Lululook to go along with it.
Priced at $79, Lululook's 3-in-1 Charging Station is able to charge an iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch at the same time. It features Qi 2.2 support and certification, so it is able to charge the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 models at up to 25W, the same as Apple's latest MagSafe specification. With 25W Qi charging, an iPhone 17 can wirelessly charge to 50 percent battery in 30 minutes.
The stand can be used in either portrait or landscape mode, with the iPhone charging platform located at the top, plus the viewing angle can be adjusted thanks to several included hinges. The Apple Watch charger folds out from the middle, and the AirPods charge at the bottom. The whole 3-in-1 charger collapses down into a square puck when not in use, making it ideal for travel. The charger weighs just 6.2 ounces and it's less than an inch thick when folded up.
Lululook made the stand out of aluminum that matches Apple's iPhone 17 Pro models, and it comes in orange, desert gold, or titanium. The orange shade is the same color as the orange iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. The aluminum resists fingerprints and smudges, and there are soft silicone pads on the bottom and the charging area to keep the charger stable and devices scratch free.
In addition to charging an iPhone at 25W, the charger provides 5W for the Apple Watch and 5W for the AirPods. The 3-in-1 Charging Station is powered via USB-C, and Lululook includes a 45W power adapter and a 3.28-foot USB cable. There's also a portable organizer to hold the cables and the charger during travel.
We have a Lululook 3-in-1 Charging Station and iPhone 17 Pro to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the widget below and enter an email address. Email addresses will be used solely for contact purposes to reach the winner(s) and send the prize(s). You can earn additional entries by subscribing to our weekly newsletter, subscribing to our YouTube channel, following us on Twitter, following us on Instagram, following us on Threads, or visiting the MacRumors Facebook page.
Due to the complexities of international laws regarding giveaways, only U.S. residents who are 18 years or older, UK residents who are 18 years or older, and Canadian residents who have reached the age of majority in their province or territory are eligible to enter. All federal, state, provincial, and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. To offer feedback or get more information on the giveaway restrictions, please refer to our Site Feedback section, as that is where discussion of the rules will be redirected.
Lululook Giveaway
The contest will run from today (March 13) at 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time through 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time on March 20. The winner will be chosen randomly on or shortly after March 20 and will be contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond and provide a shipping address before a new winner is chosen.Related Roundup: iPhone 17 ProTag: GiveawayBuyer's Guide: iPhone 17 Pro (Neutral)Related Forum: iPhoneThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Getting a ton of these random spam like emails?! I replied to a few saying I’m not a store no replies is this some kind of scam or harassment what the hell is going on? submitted by /u/FromBiotoDev [link] [comments]
iPhone Fold, Mac Studio, OLED MacBook Pro: What to expect from Apple for the rest of 2026 Apple's 2026 may have gotten off to a new-product-filled start, but it's far from done. There are plenty more iPhone and other announcements to come before the year's end.There's still a lot to come from Apple in 2026Between the launch of the M5 MacBook Air, MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e, and M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pros, Apple has made a solid start to the year. But with the annual WWDC event still to come, not to mention likely hardware announcements this fall, there is still plenty to look forward to.Apple is still expected to unveil a raft of software and hardware in the coming months, including some all-new products. Rumors of the company's first-ever foldable iPhone continue to gather pace, and that's just the beginning. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
There's a way to make a 1TB MacBook Neo, but it's not easy or cheap Getting 1TB of storage on the MacBook Neo is possible, assuming you have skill in micro soldering, the ability to remove the chip, and disdain for Apple's warranty.MacBook Neo teardown. Image credit: DirectorFengApple introduced MacBook Neo on March 4 as its most affordable notebook, starting at $599 with 256GB of storage. It uses the same A18 Pro chip found in the iPhone 16 Pro models and includes 8GB of unified memory.The company offers the 13-inch system with either 256GB or 512GB of storage. And that's it. There aren't any larger options, and the chip is not socketed like it is in the Mac mini or Mac Studio. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
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Amazon announces ‘Prime Video Ultra’ with higher price, new features Amazon has announced a new ‘Prime Video Ultra’ streaming plan launching next month that replaces the current ad-free tier and includes more features, but at a higher price.
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Apple TV just premiered a rare true crime original series Twisted Yoga is a brand new Apple TV series that just premiered today, and it’s a rare true crime offering for the streamer.
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Mac trade-ins skyrocket over 100% as Apple customers rush to upgrade to MacBook Neo, M5 MacBook Air Apple retail stores are seeing an unprecedented boom in Mac trade-ins this week, with volumes surging more than 100% compared to…
The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.
Apple’s entry-level iPad just dipped back under $300 Macworld
Apple iPad A16
View Deal
It might not have gotten an update during MacBook Neo week, but the A16 iPad is still our favorite affordable tablet. And right now it’s even more affordable as Amazon has cut the price to $299, the lowest we’ve seen all year.
The Apple iPad A16 is one of our favorite tablets and for good reason — it’s affordable, has a gorgeous, bright screen, and delivers a strong performance. We gave this particular model a 4-star rating when we reviewed it, praising its design and performance. Even though the A16 chip doesn’t support Apple Intelligence, you can still use just about any AI tool you want now and upgrade down the line once Apple fully bakes its AI suite.
The 11-inch Liquid Retina display provides clear and vibrant images, no matter the lighting situation in your room. The tablet also comes with Wi-Fi 6 for speedy and stable connectivity, so taking FaceTime calls won’t be a problem, especially with the crystal-clear 12MP front and rear cameras.
The iPad A16 is a fantastic pick if you want a tablet you can use to complete work tasks, run photo editing projects, or have fun gaming. The $299 price tag makes the iPad A16 a top pick for us, so grab this deal before it expires.
Best Mac mini deals right now – but dwindling stock hints new models are near Macworld
Best Mac mini deals: Updated March 13, 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.
Out of stock in the U.S. right now…
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 Pro Mac mini (256GB): £1,279 (£120 off, MSRP £1,279)
See more U.K. Mac mini deals below…
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.
Before you buy, note that Apple is expected to update the Mac mini with M5 and M5 Pro chips in the near future. The lack of stock on Amazon and delayed delivery times if you buy from Apple may be early signs that new models are launching soon.
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. However, an update to the M5 chips is expected. This may not happen until the summer of 2026, but, based on low stock, it could happen sooner than that. Read more here: What we know about the upcoming Mac mini M5 update.
We had been seeing some Mac mini discounts, but they haven’t been as large as they were over Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Over the past few months our advice has been to look to the Apple Refurbished Store for bigger savings.
The next big sale event isn’t expected until Amazon’s Prime Days in July and October, when you can expect to see Mac mini discounts.
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 because having adequate internal storage will speed things up compared to if you were working from an external drive. 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.:
Recently now there was a Mac mini M4 Pro available for $1,189, which is $210 off the usual price of $1,399. However, that’s now out of stock.
Get a refurbished Mac at Apple's refurbished store (U.S.)
In the U.K.:
You could get a Mac mini M4 Pro for £1,189, £210 off the usual price of £1,399. This is currently out of stock.
There’s also £90 off the Mac mini M4, you can get it for £509, rather than £599 – we recommend this deal.
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
$599
View Deal
$799
View Deal
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide
Product
Price
Price comparison from Backmarket
M4 Mac mini, 10-core CPU/10-core GPU, 512GB/16GB RAM, MSRP $799/£799
Retailer
Price
$899
View Deal
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide
Product
Price
Price comparison from Backmarket
M4 Mac mini, 10-core CPU/10-core GPU, 512GB/24GB RAM, MSRP $999/£999
Retailer
Price
$999
View Deal
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide
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
$1399
View Deal
$1399
View Deal
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide
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.
The MacRumors Show: MacBook Neo First Impressions On this week's episode of The MacRumors Show, we discuss first impressions of the MacBook Neo, Studio Display XDR, and iPhone 17e.
Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel for more videos
Following its announcement last week, the MacBook Neo arrived this week. Unlike every other Apple silicon Mac, the MacBook Neo is powered by the A18 Pro chip originally developed for the iPhone 16 Pro, making it the first Mac to use an iPhone-class processor instead of an M-series chip.
To reach its substantially lower price point, the MacBook Neo makes some compromises. Unlike the MacBook Air, it does not feature keyboard backlighting, a haptic trackpad, P3 wide color, True Tone, ambient light sensing, a camera indicator LED, MagSafe charging, Thunderbolt connectivity, or a 12-megapixel camera with Center Stage, nor does it come with Touch ID as standard. It is also thicker with a slightly reduced battery life, and has larger borders around the slightly smaller display.
MacBook Neo vs. MacBook Air Buyer's Guide: 40 Differences Compared
That being said, it is $500 cheaper than a MacBook Air and is designed to compete with lower-cost Windows laptops and Chromebooks, while expanding the Mac lineup with a substantially more affordable option. We talk through the real-world impact of some of these compromises, including performance with the A18 Pro chip and 8GB of memory.
The iPhone 17e retains the same design and price as the iPhone 16e but adds the A19 chip, MagSafe support, Apple's second-generation C1X modem, and 256GB of base storage. Apple also introduced a new Studio Display XDR model, replacing the Pro Display XDR. The new model offers a 27-inch 5K mini-LED panel with up to a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR brightness up to 2,000 nits, and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity. We compare both of these new products to their predecessors, as well as the iPhone 17e and the iPhone 16 as the two lowest-cost iPhones on sale today.
iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 16 Buyer's Guide: Which Low-Cost iPhone Should You Choose?
The MacRumors Show has its own YouTube channel, so make sure you're subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips.
Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel!
You can also listen to The MacRumors Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or other podcast apps. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your player.
If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up to hear our discussion about Apple's concentrated week of announcements that saw the introduction of 10 new products.
Subscribe to The MacRumors Show for new episodes every week, where we discuss some of the topical news breaking here on MacRumors, often joined by interesting guests such as Kayci Lacob, Kevin Nether, John Gruber, Mark Gurman, Jon Prosser, Luke Miani, Matthew Cassinelli, Brian Tong, Quinn Nelson, Jared Nelson, Eli Hodapp, Mike Bell, Sara Dietschy, iJustine, Jon Rettinger, Andru Edwards, Arnold Kim, Ben Sullins, Marcus Kane, Christopher Lawley, Frank McShan, David Lewis, Tyler Stalman, Sam Kohl, Federico Viticci, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo, and Rene Ritchie.
The MacRumors Show is on X @MacRumorsShow, so be sure to give us a follow to keep up with the podcast. You can also email us at podcast@macrumors.com or head over to The MacRumors Show forum thread. Remember to rate and review the podcast, and let us know what subjects and guests you would like to see in the future.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoTag: The MacRumors ShowBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook NeoThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
MacBook Neo is kickin’ PC ass and taking names… all the names Macworld
Apple’s new $599 MacBook Neo is all the rage in the tech world, and before you roll your eyes and say, “You’re Macworld, of course you’d say that,” really, it’s not just us. Take, for example, the latest report by Notebook Check, whose headline says it all: “MacBook Neo offers more single-core performance than any mobile processor from AMD, Intel or Qualcomm.”
Notebook Check backs up that headline with a collection of Cinebench 2024 single-core benchmark results, and sitting at the top of the chart is your friendly neighborhood MacBook Neo and its A18 Pro chip–it’s actually in third place, but behind Apple’s own M4 and M5 MacBook Air. Below the Neo are budget laptops from Acer, Asus, HP, Lenovo, and others with chips from AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm.
Notebook Check compares single-core performance, which is more relevant than multi-core performance on budget laptops. Everyday apps like Safari and Mail are usually single-threaded; thus, single-core performance applies. It’s also the thing that keeps the OS running smoothly, so everything feels faster.
Professional apps (high-end video, audio, and image editors, graphics creation, software development, etc.) that need to run things in the background are multi-threaded, so multi-core performance matters, and these users will opt for higher-priced laptops such as the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro (and maybe some Windows laptops, we don’t know).
Notebook Check’s results are just a sample of what’s available in the budget Windows PC market, which is gigantic, but they conclude, “budget Windows laptops (which usually use less powerful chips than shown in our comparison chart) will be left in the dust in terms of performance.” Overall, Notebook Check finds that “the MacBook Neo could really shake up the budget laptop segment.” So much for its “limited appeal.”
But don’t worry, Window users, you can still enjoy all that power by using Neo as a virtual machine in Parallels Desktop. A recent knowledge base article from Parallels states that Parallels Desktop can indeed run on the MacBook Neo, but “for CPU- or GPU-intensive Windows applications, this computer is not the right choice.” That’s because the Neo has 8GB of RAM, and that’s not ideal for running Windows within Parallels Desktop in macOS. Parallels says a 16GB MacBook Air or MacBook Pro “will give you a significantly better experience with Parallels Desktop.”
But if you’re just going to buy a budget PC anyway, you might be better off.
Mac Trade-Ins Surge Amid MacBook Neo Launch Apple this week saw an unusual surge of Mac trade-ins amid the launch of the MacBook Neo.
A reliable source speaking to MacRumors revealed that the quantity of Macs traded in at Apple retail stores this week increased over 100% compared to previous weeks, likely driven by demand for the MacBook Neo and M5 MacBook Air.
Older, low-end models dominated this week's trade-ins, suggesting that customers are upgrading to the MacBook Neo and the M5 MacBook Air, rather than the new MacBook Pro models with the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips.
The scale of increase is noticeably different from most previous Mac launches. While the launches of new Macs understandably cause a slight surge of trade-ins, the increase is typically much smaller than the one seen this week, suggesting heightened consumer enthusiasm for the new models. Evidence suggests that this is the biggest surge in Mac trade-ins since the launch of the first Apple silicon Macs between 2020 and 2021.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoTag: Apple Trade-InBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook NeoThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple's App Store In China Gets Lower 25% Commission To Appease Regulators Apple will cut its App Store commission in China from 30% to 25% starting March 15, with small-business and mini-app rates dropping from 15% to 12%. AppleInsider reports: Chinese regulators have been back and forth with Apple in recent years over the 30% App Store commission. The latest publicly known pressure occurred after President Trump slammed the country with seemingly random and outrageous tariffs in 2025. While nothing much else has happened in the public eye in the year since, Apple has announced a new commission rate via its developer blog. The new rates go into effect on March 15.
The current standard 30% rate is dropping to 25% for in-app purchases and paid app transactions. The Small Business Program and Mini Apps Partner Program will see rates drop from 15% to 12%. That lower rate applies to auto-renewals of in-app purchase subscriptions after the first year. Mini Apps are for transactions found in super apps like those popularized in China. [...] Developers will need to sign the updated terms, but the new rates are applied automatically. It is unclear if these new changes will prevent regulatory action from China.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Typinator 10.0 Expands the text expansion utility's reach to the iPhone and iPad via a new iOS app. ($29.99 annual subscription, free update, 47 MB, macOS 13+)
iOS 26.4 adds three new ways to customize your iPhone iOS 26.4 is launching soon and bringing a lot of new features, including three new ways to customize your iPhone. Here’s what’s new.
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iPhone 17 Pro is Now Part of MLB History Back in September, the Apple TV streaming service's broadcast of the pivotal Boston Red Sox vs. Detroit Tigers game at Fenway Park incorporated live footage captured with the iPhone 17 Pro, and now the device has been enshrined in MLB history.
Apple this week announced that the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum has added one of the four iPhone 17 Pro devices that captured the Red Sox clinching a postseason berth with a thrilling walk-off win over the Tigers to its permanent collection in Cooperstown, New York. More details are available on the Hall of Fame's website.
A weekly "Friday Night Baseball" doubleheader of MLB games returns to Apple TV for the 2026 season starting Friday, March 27. The games are included with an Apple TV subscription, at no additional cost. In the U.S., Apple TV costs $12.99 per month.Related Roundup: iPhone 17 ProTags: Apple TV Service, MLBBuyer's Guide: iPhone 17 Pro (Neutral)Related Forum: iPhoneThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Older iPhones and iPads Receive Critical Security Updates for Coruna Exploits Apple has released critical security updates for older iPhones and iPads to address the Coruna exploit kit, a sophisticated collection of exploits. If you’re still using an older device stuck at iOS/iPadOS 15 or 16, update immediately.
Deals: MacBook Neo $569, MacBook Air up to $320 off, Apple Studio Display XDR $100 off, Ocean Band, more Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is headlined by the MacBook launch week deals – up to $320 off Air, $200 off M5 Pro models, and more, but we have also spotted a chance to save some cash on the already affordable MacBook Neo from $569 as well. Amazon is now offering $100 off new 2026 Apple Studio Display XDR, we have this 1TB M3 iPad Air at a giant $350 off, and we also have a new Amazon all-time low on Neon Green Apple Watch Ultra Ocean Band. Head below for a closer look at everything.
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iOS 26’s Passwords app has a new feature that can save you a headache Apple’s Passwords app has become my full-time password manager thanks to several iOS 26 changes. And there’s one welcome new feature I recently discovered that can prevent the headache of a forgotten password loop.
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Foldable iPhone chatter starts again with new Samsung display rumor Samsung Display could soon begin producing screens for Apple's long-rumored foldable iPhone, with a new leak pointing to a manufacturing ramp beginning in mid-2026.Render of a folding iPhoneThe timeline posted on Weibo by Instant Digital matches earlier analyst estimates and fits Apple's usual production window for a fall iPhone launch. A May panel ramp would align with Apple's typical iPhone production schedule.Apple usually increases manufacturing during the summer ahead of its fall iPhone launch window. Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Viewership for Apple TV’s first Formula 1 race was up vs. last year’s broadcast on ESPN The 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship began last weekend on Apple TV. As the new exclusive U.S. home of Formula 1, Apple TV…
The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.
Apple's First Foldable Displays Nearing Mass Production Advanced display panels destined for Apple's first foldable iPhone are reportedly nearing mass production.
The Weibo leaker known as "Instant Digital" today said that Samsung Display is set to begin mass production of OLED panels for the first foldable iPhone in May 2026. Meanwhile, the user "Fixed Focus Digital" claims that the foldable iPhone's screen may be flatter than many of the existing foldable devices currently on sale, suggesting that Apple has largely solved the crease problem.
Previous reports have variously described the Samsung panel as as being "virtually crease free" and having "no crease at all." Bloomberg's Mark Gurman claims that the new display technology Apple is using reduces the crease without eliminating it entirely, but the result is "not perfect."
Rumors suggest that Apple's first foldable iPhone will feature a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display, a 5.5-inch cover display, Touch ID, two rear cameras, the A20 chip, and the "C2" modem. It is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in the fall. Production will almost certainly ramp up as we approach that time of year. Tags: Fixed Focus Digital, Foldable iPhone, Instant DigitalThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
∞ The Dalrymple Report: MacBook Neo Is the MacBook Neo really that good? After a week of thinking and reading about the Neo, Dave and I give our thoughts on Apple's newest product. We look at all of the reviews and the use cases for the Neo and compare it to how we use our current systems.
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Show Notes:
50 Years of Thinking Different
Rising laptop prices likely to further boost MacBook Neo sales
Asus Co-CEO: MacBook Neo Is a 'Shock' to the PC Industry
Gruber’s MacBook Neo review
MacBook Neo teardown
MacBook Neo’s two USB C ports
Apple reveals MacBook Neo battery cycle limit
Find your Mac’s cycle count limit
The MacBook Neo doesn’t officially support fast charging, but a beefier charger helps
John Ternus interview on Apple MacBook Neo
Shows and movies we're watching
Tehran, Apple TV
Survivor, Paramount +
Scrubs, Hulu, same cast, just older
Apple TV’s star-packed new comedy sounds like a winner, per reviews Margo’s Got Money Troubles is one of Apple TV’s most anticipated premieres this spring, and the first reviews are extremely positive.
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Don’t stop now — bring on a $399 Mac Neo A very affordable Mac Neo desktop would bring macOS to millions more people. Along with the MacBook Neo, it could change the game for Apple.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Best Apple Deals of the Week: Launch Deals Hit Brand New M4 iPad Air, M5 MacBook Air, and More This week was Apple launch week, and we're already seeing solid markdowns on the new M4 iPad Air, M5 MacBook Air, and more. Additionally, below you'll find deals on AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation and Apple Watch Series 11.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
AirPods 4
What's the deal? Take $59 off AirPods 4 with ANC
Where can I get it? Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$59 OFFAirPods 4 for $119.99
Amazon this week came back with a notable discount on the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, available for $119.99, down from $179.00. This is a solid second-best price on the AirPods 4.
M4 iPad Air
What's the deal? Take up to $100 off M4 iPad Air
Where can I get it? Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$40 OFF11-inch M4 iPad Air for $559.00
$52 OFF13-inch M4 iPad Air for $747.00
This week was the launch week for all of Apple's new products, and Amazon is already offering solid discounts on many models of the M4 iPad Air. This includes up to $80 off the 11-inch model and up to $100 off the 13-inch model.
MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
What's the deal? Take $49 off M5 MacBook Air and M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro
Where can I get it? Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$49 OFF13-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,049.99
$49 OFF15-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,249.99
$49 OFF16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB) for $2,649.99
$49 OFF16-inch M5 Max MacBook Pro (36GB/2TB) for $3,849.99
Similar to the M4 iPad Air, Amazon is offering multiple discounts across the new M5 MacBook Air and M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro this week. You'll find $49 off select models right now, without the need of a coupon code.
Apple: The First 50 Years
What's the deal? Take $10 off the new book Apple: The First 50 Years
Where can I get it? Amazon
21% OFFApple: The First 50 Years for $39.30
Tech columnist David Pogue released a new book Apple: The First 50 Years earlier this week, and Amazon has it for 21 percent off right now. The 608-page book explores the first five decades of the company's history.
Samsung Monitors
What's the deal? Save on Samsung monitors
Where can I get it? Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$300 OFFSamsung Smart Monitor M9 on Amazon
UP TO $1,000 OFFSamsung Monitor Sale
This week, there were two sales on Samsung monitors, split between Amazon and Samsung's own website. On Amazon, there was a big accessory sale this week, and the highlights of the event included big savings on monitors from Samsung, LG, Dell, and more. Samsung's newest Smart Monitor M9 hit the all-time low price of $1,299.99 during the sale, and it's still available now.
On Samsung, you can get a free copy of Resident Evil Requiem with the purchase of select monitors. You'll also find big discounts on TVs and Galaxy products this week.
Apple Watch Series 11
What's the deal? Take $100 off Apple Watch Series 11
Where can I get it? Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (42mm GPS) for $299.00
$100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (46mm GPS) for $329.00
Amazon this week has all-time low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11, with $100 discounts across numerous models of the smartwatch. We first started tracking the return of these deals last month, but this sale has now expanded with many more options on both 42mm and 46mm GPS models.
If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.
Deals Newsletter
Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season!
Related Roundup: Apple DealsThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
ChatGPT and Claude are evolving from chatbots into interactive learning tools This week, both Anthropic’s Claude and OpenAI’s ChatGPT were updated to embrace learning through interactive visualizations. Both moves show how AI is evolving from the initial chatbot phase to something more mature and helpful.
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Apple is Up to Something Secret in New York Apple's retail store at the Grand Central Terminal in New York is temporarily closed, but the reason why remains a mystery.
As seen in photos shared by Parker Ortolani, Apple's space on the Main Concourse's East Balcony is covered up with temporary walls and curtains. There is also temporary lighting and audio equipment set up, and a video shared on social media appears to show that Apple is or was recording some sort of production.
Apple is clearly up to something, but exactly what remains anyone's guess. It could be recording a special video that will be part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations, or an upcoming product launch, but there are many possibilities.
Apple Grand Central is closed off for some sort of special event or build out pic.twitter.com/mLAhHz7qKf— Parker Ortolani (@ParkerOrtolani) March 12, 2026
Apple Grand Central reopens this Saturday, March 14, at 10 a.m. local time, and it remains to be seen if there will be any visible changes.
Apple's iconic Fifth Avenue store in New York will also be temporarily closed on Monday, March 23, from midnight until 3 a.m. local time, according to a source familiar with the matter. The reason for this closure is also unknown, but past closures have sometimes just been for maintenance on the store's glass cube entrance.
Apple Fifth Avenue is typically open 24/7.
Apple turns 50 on April 1, so we may learn what it was up to in New York over the coming weeks.Tag: Apple StoreThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
UPDATE: **Description**
We are experiencing intermittent errors with Google Docs, Apps Script, Google Slides, Google Drive, Google Calendar beginning on Friday, 2026-03-13 05:00 PDT.
Our engineering teams are actively working to mitigate the impact.
We will provide an update by Friday, 2026-03-13 08:00 PDT with current details.
We apologize to all who are affected by the disruption.
**Customer Symptoms**
A subset of customers may experience elevated error rates when accessing the impacted products in the US region.
**Workaround**
Impacted users may re-attempt the unsuccessful action. Incident began at 2026-03-13 12:00 (times are in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)).Description
We are experiencing intermittent errors with Google Docs, Apps Script, Google Slides, Google Drive, Google Calendar beginning on Friday, 2026-03-13 05:00 PDT.
Our engineering teams are actively working to mitigate the impact.
We will provide an update by Friday, 2026-03-13 08:00 PDT with current details.
We apologize to all who are affected by the disruption.
Customer Symptoms
A subset of customers may experience elevated error rates when accessing the impacted products in the US region.
Workaround
Impacted users may re-attempt the unsuccessful action.
Affected products: Apps Script, Google Calendar, Google Docs, Google Drive, Google Slides
THR reviews ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles’: Elle Fanning and Michelle Pfeiffer sparkle in Apple TV’s endearingly offbeat family dramedy “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” stars and is executive produced by Academy Award, Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award nominee…
The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.
Can’t add third party payment gateway There are released IOS apps with the same payment provider am trying to add, how did they get past this? submitted by /u/Fun_Platypus_6481 [link] [comments]
Today in Apple history: CNN predicts doom for Apple On March 13, 1997, CNN predicted doom for Apple, saying "the coffin door is closing." It's one of many "Apple doomed" predictions.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
iPhone Fold’s crease-free display is about to hit major milestone, per leaker The iPhone Fold is six months away from launching, and according to a new leak, its crease-free display will soon hit a major milestone: entering mass production.
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David Pogue reveals why Tim Cook wouldn't be interviewed for his book As part of promoting his new book, "Apple: The First 50 Years," author David Pogue spoke to the AppleInsider Podcast about writing it and just what Apple itself would and would not do to help.David Pogue — image credit: Jesse DitmarDavid Pogue joined William Gallagher for an in-depth discussion of "Apple: The First 50 Years" — now available on Amazon, how it was written — and why. Hear the interview on the latest AppleInsider Podcast, or read this lightly edited transcript.David Pogue: Guess what? You are the very first person, the very first person not involved with the book to read it and tell me what you think. So that that means the world. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
iPhone Fold: 5 Things We Learned This Week About Apple's Foldable It's been a big week for foldable iPhone rumors. In case you missed any of them, here are five developments that we've covered over the last few days.
Apple is expected to launch the iPhone Fold this September. For everything else we know, be sure to check out our dedicated roundup.
Display Crease
Early reports suggested Apple had solved the crease problem that has plagued many foldables on the market, thanks to a new Samsung-supplied panel that has been described variously as being "virtually crease free" and having "no crease at all." However, the latest report suggests things may have been overstated. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says the new display technology Apple is using reduces the crease without eliminating it entirely, and that the result is "not perfect," suggesting it may be wise to temper expectations.
Outer Display Camera
Earlier rumors indicated that Apple has opted to use a hole-punch for the front-facing camera on the 5.5-inch outer display. There are no Face ID components under the display (Touch ID is integrated into the side button instead), but whether it would be encased in a familiar pill-shaped cutout was unclear. Gurman has now confirmed that the small hole-punch cutout replaces the pill-shaped notch that appears on today's iPhones, but that the design will still include a surrounding Dynamic Island interface for system alerts and Live Activities.
Inner Display Camera
Early reports suggested Apple intended to adopt under-screen camera technology in the iPhone Fold's 7.8-inch inner display, making it the first all-screen iPhone. Those rumors may have been true at the time, but it looks like Apple has since dropped the idea. Per Gurman's latest report, Apple apparently determined that the under-display approach "produced worse image quality," and it has now decided instead to use a hole-punch cutout, similar to the one on the outer display.
iOS or iPadOS?
Since the iPhone Fold's inner display will be close to an iPad mini in size with a 4:3 aspect ratio, there had been lingering questions about whether it will work like a standard iPhone when closed and an iPad when open, and which OS it will use. This week, Gurman provided an answer. When the device is opened up, the UI will have an iPad-like layout that supports multitasking with two apps side-by-side. Many apps will feature sidebars on the left of the display, and developers will be given tools to adapt their existing apps for the new interface. However, the device will run iOS, not iPadOS. Gurman said it won't support the full range of multitasking features that are available on the iPad, and it won't run existing iPadOS apps.
Storage and RAM
Like the iPhone Air and the iPhone 17 Pro/Max, Apple's first foldable iPhone will feature 12GB of RAM, with Samsung set to begin DRAM shipments in the second quarter of this year in line with Apple's production schedule. Korea-based media outlet The Bell reports that Samsung was able to negotiate a substantially higher price than previous memory contracts with Apple. The higher cost is attributed to tightening global memory supply amid the AI server build-out. As for storage options, Apple will offer the device in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB capacities, claims reputable leaker Instant Digital, suggesting the top 1TB option could cost nearly $3,000. For a little perspective, a maxed out iPhone Fold could approach the cost of two 1TB iPhone 17 Pro devices.Tag: Foldable iPhoneThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
It took me a year to release 125 updates and develop a health app — the Treelet Health iOS app. Over the course of one year, I single-handedly built a health app from scratch, releasing a total of 125 updates — nearly one every three days on average. It has gained over 100,000 users, and I feel the app has finally reached a relatively stable state. Let me share how I developed this health app […]
What is this error when compiling to device? So i developed a mac app and decided to try it on the phone as well. Fixed all the compiling errors, tried it in simulator fine, and now on a real device i get this. The selected path does not even exist on disk. I even went to register the bundle id and app on […]
Apple lowers App Store commission fees after CCP pressure Apple announced on Thursday that it will reduce the commission fees it collects from the App Store in mainland China, following discussions…
The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.
The iOS Weekly Brief – Issue 51 (News, tools, upcoming conferences, job market overview, weekly poll, and must-read articles) TL;DR – Apple to celebrate 50 years of thinking different – Xcode 26.4 Beta 3 – Thread Safety in Swift – Preventing Data Races with Locks, Queues, and Actors – Get Rid of Your SwiftGen Dependency – What you should know before Migrating from GCD to Swift Concurrency – Agent skills in Xcode: How to […]
Top 15 setups where MacBook Pro runs the show We scoured the archives for the top 15 MacBook Pro setups, with an emphasis on striking aesthetics, clever engineering and smart gear choices.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Koubou: Generate App Store screenshots with HTML/CSS templates Hey r/iOSProgramming, I've shipped 5 iOS apps last year and one of my top hated pieces of the process was screenshots. I automated uploading with asc cli (super nice tool btw) but still the part about creating them was a pain. So I created Koubou to automate this. I did it some time ago but […]
MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e and special guest David Pogue on the AppleInsider Podcast David Pogue, author of "Apple: The First 50 Years" is our special guest talking about what did and did not make it into the book, plus there are rumors of the HomeHub and real-world news of the MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e, all on the AppleInsider Podcast.David Pogue talks about his new history of Apple bookPogue is everywhere this week, talking about his 600-page history of Apple, but now you can hear the very first interview he gave about it. Listen to the stories behind the book, but also hear just how keen he was to find out what AppleInsider thought of it.It's a wide-ranging interview, but of course the book is not the only thing happening this week. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
App Store review messages One of my updates got rejected on the 3rd march, 5 mins later I replied to App Store review asking for more information, and providing more information on what the issue was. 3 days ago I also submitted another separate request that allowed me ti challenge the rejection. I haven’t received any messages or emails […]
DataStoreKit: An SQLite SwiftData custom data store Hello! I released a preview of my library called DataStoreKit. DataStoreKit is built around SwiftData and its custom data store APIs, using SQLite as its primary persistence layer. It is aimed at people who want both ORM-style SwiftData workflows and direct SQL control in the same project. I already shared it on Swift Forums, but […]
AppStore Connect: Review notifications Not sure whether it's just me, but I only get review notifications for reviews from other stores than my "home store". I get no notifications whatsoever for new reviews coming in for my country. Do others observe that as well? I mean, what could be any meaningful reasoning if that would be implemented like that […]
Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD review: Secure NFC storage for iPhone, Mac & more Macworld
At a glanceExpert's Rating
Pros
Strong security for your files
NFC on iPhone is easy to use
Compact, lightweight design
Cons
No IP rating
Modest performance
Our Verdict
There are faster – and more rugged – drives available for professional users. However, the TouchLock’s clever NFC features provide good security for your important files, along with admirable ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of computers and mobile devices.
Price When Reviewed
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Best Pricing Today
Price When Reviewed512GB $99.99 | 1TB: $159.99
Best Prices Today: Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD
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Price
$99.99
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Price
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Best for
iPhone users who want simple secure storage
Mobile photo/video backups
Travel storage
Not ideal for
High-speed editing workflows
Rugged outdoor use
Thunderbolt/USB4 performance needs
Lexar makes a number of portable storage devices that focus on smartphones and mobile devices rather than just Macs and PCs. The latest addition to its range is the TouchLock Portable SSD. At first glance, the TouchLock looks like a fairly conventional solid-state drive, and its USB-C interface allows it to work with Macs and PCs as well as mobile devices. However, it also includes several additional features that provide extra security, along with MagSafe compatibility for iPhone users.
This drive is primarily aimed at iPhone owners who want simple NFC-based security and convenient MagSafe mounting rather than maximum transfer speeds.
There are currently two versions of the TouchLock available. The 512GB model costs $99.99/£69.99, while the 1TB version that we tested costs $159.99/£119.99. Lexar has also indicated that it plans to release a 2TB model, although it wasn’t available at the time of writing.
A USB-C interface provides compatibility with most recent computers and mobile devices.
Lexar
The TouchLock is neatly designed, with a sleek silver case that measures just 7mm thick, 53mm wide and 85mm high, and weighs only 40g. It’s easy to slip into a pocket or bag when travelling, and Lexar says the drive can withstand drops from up to two metres. However, the company doesn’t provide an IP rating for water or dust resistance, so users who need a more rugged drive for outdoor use may want to consider alternatives such as LaCie’s Rugged SSD range.
The compact design also makes it small enough to attach directly to an iPhone when backing up photos or video files. The back panel of the TouchLock includes a MagSafe-compatible magnetic ring that holds it in place (and it also worked with the MagSafe sleeve I use to protect my iPhone). The drive has a standard USB-C interface, and Lexar includes a USB-C cable with a USB-A adaptor in the box so it can connect to recent Apple devices, as well as Windows PCs and Android devices with USB-C.
Admittedly, it’s not the fastest portable SSD available. The TouchLock supports USB 3.2 (Gen 1), with Lexar quoting read and write speeds of 450MB/s and 420MB/s respectively. Those figures are modest compared with some newer USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 drives, but Lexar says the TouchLock can still handle direct recording of Apple ProRes video at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second (though not at 120fps). In our tests, the drive didn’t quite reach the quoted speeds, generally delivering around 350MB/s for both read and write performance. Even so, that should be more than adequate for routine Time Machine backups on a Mac, as well as backing up photos, videos and other files from an iPhone or iPad.
How iPhone NFC locking works
The standout feature of the TouchLock is its ability to use NFC (Near Field Communication) on your iPhone to lock and unlock the drive. When you first plug the TouchLock into a Mac, PC or other device, it doesn’t immediately appear on the desktop like a conventional USB drive. Instead, you must first set up its security features using the Lexar app on an iPhone or Android phone.
The process is straightforward. Plug the TouchLock into any Mac or other device that can power it via USB-C, then launch the Lexar app on your phone. The first time you use the drive, the app prompts you to create a security code. After that, it uses your phone’s NFC capability to unlock the drive so you can access your files and use it like a normal external drive. (The iPhone has included NFC since the iPhone 6, although NFC isn’t currently available on Macs or iPads.)
The TouchLock is locked to protect your files, and can only be unlocked by using NFC on your personal iPhone.
Lexar
How you unlock the TouchLock with an iPhone
The NFC chip in an iPhone is typically located near the camera on the back of the device. To unlock the TouchLock, simply hold that area of the phone against the NFC pad on the front of the drive, which is marked with a small padlock icon. The Lexar app then communicates with the drive via NFC and unlocks it so you can access your files. As a helpful touch, the app uses haptic feedback to make the iPhone vibrate when the drive has been successfully unlocked.
When the TouchLock is unplugged from a Mac or other device, it automatically locks again and can only be unlocked using the Lexar app on your personal iPhone. The files stored on the drive are also protected with 128-bit encryption, preventing others from accessing them with the Lexar app on their own phone.
Should You Buy The Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD?
It may not be the fastest solid-state drive available, but the TouchLock Portable SSD offers strong security for important files and data. It works with a wide range of computers and mobile devices, and its NFC-based unlocking system is easier to use than many password-protected drives we’ve tested. Combined with its compact design and MagSafe compatibility, it’s an affordable and convenient option for keeping important files secure while travelling.
13-inch MacBook Air (M5) review: Fast and steady wins the race Macworld
At a glanceExpert's Rating
Pros
Fantastic performance for this laptop class
Double the storage capacity and performance
All-day battery life and then some
Cons
Still no HDR or variable refresh rate
Not much has changed in four years
Our Verdict
The more things change, the more the MacBook Air stays the same. It may not be much different from the model from last year or from 2022, but this is still a winning formula that works just right for most users.
Price When Reviewed
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Price When ReviewedFrom $1,099
Best Prices Today: Apple 13-inch MacBook Air (M5, 2026)
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$1099
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If you’ve used a MacBook Air in the last four years, you know exactly what to expect of the new M5-equipped model. Apple’s most popular laptop has changed very little. It’s really all about the M5 chip, which delivers impressive year-on-year performance improvements.
However, the MacBook Air is no longer the entry-level option. With the launch of the $599 Neo, the MacBook Air, which now starts at $1,099, is firmly in the mid-range of Apple’s laptop lineup. That doesn’t necessarily mean the Air is targeting a different audience, but its positioning puts it in a different light.
Unfortunately, you won’t find anything surprising or especially noteworthy about the new M5 version of the MacBook Air. It continues to be a stable workhorse in Apple’s lineup, and a great laptop for most, but it’s hard to get excited about somewhat longer benchmark bars on a benchmark chart year after year.
M5 MacBook Air: Design, display, and specs
Apple has changed precious little about the MacBook Air since the M2 model was introduced four years ago. With the M4 model last year, it swapped out the Space Gray color option for Sky Blue and added the newer 12MP Center Stage camera with Desk View, updated the USB-C ports to Thunderbolt 4, and improved the Wi-Fi support to Wi-FI 6E.
A pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports and MagSafe charging. Just like last year.Foundry
This year, Apple updated the wireless chip to its own N1 (with Wi-Fi 7 support and Bluetooth 6) and doubled the starting storage to 512GB (while raising the price by $100). The SSD is a lot faster, too. A minor detail: The keyboard now has glyphs on the Tab, Caps Lock, Return, and Shift keys instead of words like the rest of Apple’s MacBook lineup. Unfortunately, it has the same four colors, which seem even more subdued next to the MacBook Neo.
These keys used to have words instead of glyphs. Other than that, the keyboard is unchanged.Foundry
MacBook Air pricing has bounced back and forth for years. The M1 model started at $999. That shot up to $1,199 with the M2 model, which was then reduced to $1,099 when the 15-inch model arrived. The M4 model cut the price again to $999, and now we’re back to $1,099 for the 13-inch model or $1,299 for the 15-inch model.
That entry-level model gets you the reduced-spec M5 with 10 CPU cores and 8 GPU cores. Our review unit has the full M5 with 10 CPU and 10 GPU cores, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, bringing the price to $1,299. In the U.S., Apple now includes the new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max with the MacBook Air rather than the 30W USB-C Power Adapter (13-inch base model only) or the 35W Dual USB-C Port Power Adapter.
M5 MacBook Air: Performance
We already viewed the M5-based MacBook Pro, and as expected, the performance of the M5 in the MacBook Air is very similar. As is always the case, the MacBook Pro will run certain tasks a bit faster since it has active cooling for sustained peak performance, while the MacBook Air delivers quiet performance with no fan at all. This causes the processor to slow down when things get too hot, lowering performance.
Geekbench 6 CPU
Apple at 50: Mike Markkula, Apple's second CEO was as important as Steve Jobs Neither of Apple's first two CEOs are particularly remembered next to the likes of Steve Jobs, John Sculley, or Tim Cook, yet Mike Markkula, Apple's second CEO, certainly should be.Mike Markkula (right) with Steve Jobs in the 1970s — image credit: allaboutstevejobsMichael Scott was the first CEO of Apple, but he was hired by Mike Markkula. And then if not exactly fired, he was at least pointed toward the door by Markkula.Without Markkula, there would quite possibly never have been an Apple. And there certainly wouldn't be one that stood the test of time. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
What Is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)? A managed security service provider (MSSP) is a third-party company that provides ongoing cybersecurity monitoring and support for an organization. Instead of building a full internal security operations team, a business can use an MSSP to monitor security alerts, investigate suspicious activity, and help respond when something goes wrong. Cybersecurity isn’t just a big-company problem […]
The post appeared first on The Mac Security Blog.
Parallels Confirms MacBook Neo Can Run Windows in a Virtual Machine Parallels Desktop virtualization software is compatible with the new MacBook Neo, according to an update from the company – but Windows VM performance will depend on your intended use case.
From Parallels' updated knowledge base article:
Parallels Desktop runs on MacBook Neo in basic usability testing. The Parallels Engineering team has completed initial testing and confirmed that Parallels Desktop installs and virtual machines operate stably on MacBook Neo. Full validation and performance testing is ongoing, and additional compatibility statement will follow if required.When Apple launched the $599 MacBook Neo this week, some asked whether its A18 Pro chip – which first debuted in the iPhone 16 Pro – would be capable of running Windows via Parallels Desktop. Fortunately, the A18 Pro is based on the same ARM architecture as Apple's M-series chips, which are made specifically for Macs, so the processor isn't an issue.
What could be an issue is what you intend to do inside the virtual machine. The MacBook Neo comes with 8GB of RAM (Apple doesn't offer a memory upgrade option) and a Windows 11 VM requires a minimum of 4 GB of RAM to function, which leaves only 4GB for macOS and Mac apps simultaneously.
Parallels states the context plainly: "For light, occasional Windows use, like a legacy business tool, or a Windows-only utility, MacBook Neo may provide an acceptable experience. For CPU- or GPU-intensive Windows applications, this computer is not the right choice."
The "right choice" comes down to personal preference, but for those looking for a new machine, the next step up would be Apple's $1,099 MacBook Air with M5 chip, which comes with a minimum of 16GB RAM, with memory upgrade options available. Or for a cheaper option, refurbished base M4 MacBook Air models also come with 16GB RAM as standard.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoTag: Parallels DesktopBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook NeoThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple MacBook Neo Beats Ever Single x86 PC CPU For Single-Core Performance Early benchmarks show the A18 Pro-powered MacBook Neo beating every current x86 CPU in single-core Cinebench performance, including chips from Intel and AMD. Notebookcheck reports: We have performed a couple of benchmarks and were particularly impressed by the single-core performance. Not in the short Geekbench test, but in Cinebench 2024, where a single-core test takes about 10 minutes. The A18 Pro consumes between 3.5-4 Watts in this scenario and scores 147 points. This means it is faster than every other x86 processor in our database, including the two desktop processors Intel Core Ultra 9 285K & AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This also means the MacBook Neo beats every modern mobile processor from AMD, Intel and also Qualcomm, even though the upcoming Snapdragon X2 chips should be a bit faster. The A18 Pro is also slightly faster than Apple's own M3 generation in this scenario. Further reading: ASUS Executive Says MacBook Neo is 'Shock' to PC Industry
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Apple MacBook Neo Beats Every Single x86 PC CPU For Single-Core Performance Early benchmarks show the A18 Pro-powered MacBook Neo beating every current x86 CPU in single-core Cinebench performance, including chips from Intel and AMD. Notebookcheck reports: We have performed a couple of benchmarks and were particularly impressed by the single-core performance. Not in the short Geekbench test, but in Cinebench 2024, where a single-core test takes about 10 minutes. The A18 Pro consumes between 3.5-4 Watts in this scenario and scores 147 points. This means it is faster than every other x86 processor in our database, including the two desktop processors Intel Core Ultra 9 285K & AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This also means the MacBook Neo beats every modern mobile processor from AMD, Intel and also Qualcomm, even though the upcoming Snapdragon X2 chips should be a bit faster. The A18 Pro is also slightly faster than Apple's own M3 generation in this scenario. Further reading: ASUS Executive Says MacBook Neo is 'Shock' to PC Industry
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Grand Central Station Apple Store closes temporarily Customers at Apple Grand Central are being directed to other stores while it's closed for March 12 and 13. There's no explanation, but it's likely to be to do with Apple's 50th anniversary celebrations.View of Apple Grand Central from across the station — image credit: AppleApple Grand Central is used to being used for promotional events — it was where the "Severance" pop-up was in January 2025. Given its size and how many people go by it in Grand Central Station, it would make sense for an anniversary event to be held there.As yet there is no indication, though, of whether it's an anniversary event, an unrelated promotion, or simply a refurbishment of the store. Buyers coming to the store on Thursday March 12, 2026, just saw a sign telling them it was closed. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Sennheiser HD 400U Review: Great sound and Lossless Audio for under $100 Macworld
At a glanceExpert's Rating
Pros
Great sound and competitive price
Firm, strong bass
Comfortable, lightweight design
Built-in mic for voice calls
Cons
Wired only, with no Bluetooth
No noise-cancellation
Our Verdict
There are no digital features such as noise-cancellation or Bluetooth, but the HD 400U provides very good sound quality at a competitive price. The lightweight design is comfortable to wear, and its USB-C connection supports lossless and high-res audio on Apple Music and other streaming services.
Price When Reviewed
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Price When Reviewed$99.95
Best Prices Today: Sennheiser HD 400U
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$99.95
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Sennheiser’s new HD 400U wired headphones show that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy high-quality sound. Priced at $99.95/£69.99, the over-ear headphones use a USB-C wired connection that delivers what Sennheiser calls “pure, uncompressed audio,” supporting lossless and high-resolution music up to 24-bit/96kHz on services such as Apple Music.
Despite the modest price, the HD 400U delivers impressive sound quality, strong bass and a lightweight, comfortable design, making it an affordable option for listeners who want the best possible audio quality from modern streaming services.
Wired headphones may feel like a throwback in the age of wireless earbuds, especially since Apple removed the 3.5mm headphone jack from the iPhone 7 in 2016 — a move that helped accelerate the rise of Bluetooth devices such as AirPods. While wireless headphones have dominated ever since, Bluetooth audio still relies on data compression, which means it can’t deliver true lossless sound. As streaming services such as Apple Music increasingly offer lossless and high-resolution audio, wired headphones like the HD 400U are enjoying something of a comeback among listeners who want the best possible sound quality.
USB-C and Lossless Audio Support
The HD 400U includes a USB-C cable that works with recent Macs, iPhones and other USB-C devices, allowing listeners to enjoy lossless and high-resolution audio without spending hundreds of dollars on premium models such as Apple’s AirPods Max, which cost $549/£499. Instead, Sennheiser focuses on the essentials: a comfortable, lightweight design and strong sound quality at an affordable price.
Padded earpieces and lightweight design ensure that the HD 400U is comfortable to wear for hours at a time.
Sonova Consumer Hearing GmbH
Design & Comfort
Padded earpieces and the lightweight design ensure that the HD 400U is comfortable to wear for hours at a time. The headphones weigh just 217g — far lighter than the 386g AirPods Max — and the thick padding helps reduce pressure during long listening sessions.
The design itself is straightforward and practical. The headphones are made from matte-black plastic, which doesn’t feel as premium as metal-clad rivals like the AirPods Max but should be durable enough to survive life in a backpack. The earcups fold flat for easier storage, and Sennheiser includes a fabric carrying pouch.
Features and Limitations
Of course, the low price does mean that the HD 400U lacks some features that certain users may want. There’s no Bluetooth option and no noise-cancellation, and the headphones don’t include a dedicated volume control, so you’ll need to adjust volume on your phone or other device. However, the cable does include simple inline controls, with a microphone for voice calls and a single button for Play/Pause and handling incoming calls.
Sound Quality
Most importantly, Sennheiser gets the basics right, with sound quality that’s impressive for headphones costing less than $100. Cheaper headphones often struggle with bass, but the HD 400U – with a frequency response of 18–20kHz – handles the bouncing bass that opens Bad Guy by Billie Eilish with a big, firm thud that immediately gets your body swaying. The deep, reverberating bass pulse later in the track adds a sinister edge as Billie whispers, “you said she’s scared of me?”
The USB-C cable supports lossless and high-res audio, and includes inline controls for music and voice calls.
Sonova Consumer Hearing GmbH
Crucially, the bass doesn’t overwhelm the rest of the mix. The finger snaps cut crisply through the bass and drums, while Billie’s whispered vocals retain a smooth, velvety tone.
Switching to the sonic chaos of Planetary Go! by My Chemical Romance presents no problems either. It’s a dense track, with heavy rock guitars colliding with electronic keyboards, yet the HD 400U keeps each element clear and distinct. The chopping guitar riffs have real punch, while the fizzing EDM keyboards burst with energy.
Should You Buy The Sennheiser HD 400U?
If you need noise-cancellation or the flexibility of Bluetooth, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But if you simply want an affordable pair of wired headphones that delivers high-quality sound, the HD 400U offers excellent value for money. The lightweight, comfortable design also makes it a good option for long journeys – especially since the wired connection means there’s no battery to worry about.
SKStoreReviewController timing – when do you trigger in-app review prompts? Implementing SKStoreReviewController for a productivity app and looking for real-world experience on optimal trigger timing. Our planned approach: Trigger: After user completes a core action (task completion) Eligibility: 7+ days install, 15+ completed actions, 3+ sessions in 7 days, 90-day cooldown Native API (SKStoreReviewController on iOS, In-App Review API on Android) Questions: Anyone have data […]
You won’t believe how much better the new Studio Display’s camera is Macworld
You’d be right to criticize the new Studio Display for its lackluster improvements over the old model. It was overpriced for what it offered in 2022, and the new 2026 model keeps the same price without changing the actual display panel at all.
Yes, the four USB-C ports in the back are upgraded, now including two Thunderbolt 5 ports. And yes, the speakers are a little better—and still great compared to most monitor speakers and terrible compared to almost any dedicated speakers. But that hardly takes the sting off paying $1,599 for what is demonstrably decade-old LCD panel technology.
The webcam, though…that got a huge boost. Look at the difference in low light between the old and new cameras.
Original Studio Display (left) vs. new Studio Display (right)
While low light performance is the most dramatic improvement, there’s still a major quality difference even when very well lit with a big key light.
Original Studio Display (left) vs. new Studio Display (right)
Of course, the new display doesn’t quite match the quality of using your iPhone as a webcam or the best dedicated webcams. You can get a much better image out of the 4K 60fps cameras from Logitech or Elgato. But the new webcam is more than serviceable; it’s actually quite good.
But the new camera really highlights how bad the original model’s camera was. The difference is all the more dramatic since the old model had a really bad webcam that produced grainy and blotchy images and couldn’t seem to figure out proper white balance. Apple tried to fix it through firmware updates, but the truth was, it just wasn’t a very good camera. Now the Studio Display has a good camera.
Unfortunately, the microphone array is still just okay, but it’ll serve you fine for simple video calls. If you want better voice quality, using AirPods or a dedicated mic is suggested. I produced a quick video to give you an idea of how it all compares in motion.
@macworld.com Studio Display old vs. new webcam quality. The new model looks a LOT better! #apple #mac #studiodisplay ♬ original sound – Macworld – Macworld
Note that the Studio Display XDR has the same camera, mics, and speakers as the new Studio Display, so you’ll get the same picture and sound out of the $3,299 model.
As decent as the webcam is (finally), I’d like to see Apple take real leadership here, though. The next time Apple updates the Studio Display, it should use the same sensor as the iPhone selfie camera. The new square-sensor arrangement makes it easier to shoot landscape or vertical at full resolution (increasingly important for content creators), and it can handle 4K and 60fps with Dolby Vision while delivering superior detail, color, and contrast. The iPhone’s front camera is exactly what Apple should include in a monitor that costs $1,599 (or $3,299 for that matter)—and it’s certainly thick enough to handle it.
Apple TV Claims First F1 Viewership Victory Over ESPN Apple TV aired the first Formula 1 race of the 2026 season last weekend following an exclusive streaming rights partnership for five years, and Apple senior VP of services Eddy Cue is already calling it a win for the company.
Cue told The Hollywood Reporter that viewership for last week's Australian Grand Prix was up year over year compared to the 2025 race, which aired on ESPN.
"The 2026 Formula 1 season on Apple TV is off to a strong start, with fans responding positively and viewership up year over year for the first weekend, exceeding both F1 and Apple expectations," Cue said.
As is typical for Apple TV, Cue declined to offer specific viewing figures, but we do know that last year's Australian GP garnered an averaged 1.1 million viewers for ESPN on its late-night time slot.
Any increase in viewership over ESPN is a victory for Apple, and with U.S. races like Miami and Montreal coming up, the company is likely betting on more ratings improvements over the previous rights holder.
F1 season access is included with every Apple TV subscription ($12.99 per month) in the United States. The partnership allows Apple TV to provide comprehensive coverage of Formula 1, including all practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix.
The Hollywood Reporter's full coverage of Apple TV and F1 is available to read online.Related Roundup: Apple TVBuyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)Related Forum: Apple TV and Home TheaterThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Applying for my first job, please critique my resume I have been working hard for 2 years, both developing apps and researching. Now i need to apply for jobs for an internship, and i prepared my resume. And I appreciate any critique. My github: https://github.com/Canertsz https://preview.redd.it/5s8nsml3bsog1.png?width=1230&format=png&auto=webp&s=233e4dd195fdcac4d5d344a0769f94a2c6e89ad1 submitted by /u/Myweakside [link] [comments]
Rate the screenshots of my app in AppStore As many of you know, marketing is the hardest part. I feel like the screenshots I created for my app are not attracting installs. This is a simple clean up your camera roll app. Please critique my screenshots https://preview.redd.it/9o4r464n9sog1.png?width=2858&format=png&auto=webp&s=6c73e6f1325ad11cd580fd2757da6543d21be1da And this is what chat gpt generated as alternative, not sure if it's better https://preview.redd.it/cgnq06ds9sog1.png?width=1044&format=png&auto=webp&s=71d847bb0f13f6af0a792584f4a1adeffaad62dc https://preview.redd.it/8ag58hyv9sog1.png?width=1008&format=png&auto=webp&s=fffeaf97e7ab10964447aab9d911c1e00d44bcd2 […]
Apple to Cut App Store Developer Fees in China From March 15 Apple has announced it is lowering App Store developer fees in China from March 15, with commission rates for standard in-app purchases (IAPs) set to change to 25%, down from 30%.
In an update on its Developer blog, Apple also said the commission rate for qualifying IAPs under the App Store Small Business Program and Mini Apps Partner Program (and auto-renewals of IAP subscriptions after the first year) will be 12%, down from the current 15%.
Apple said the changes are a result of "discussions with the Chinese regulator," indicating the move is to avoid regulatory intervention. A report last year revealed that China's antitrust watchdog, the State Administration for Market Regulation, was investigating Apple's app fees in the region.
A similar change was recently made in Japan, where Apple lowered its commission to 21% on some third-party in-app payments, among other major changes, due to regulatory pressure.
In its update today, Apple said that signing the updated terms by March 15 is not required "to receive the benefit of these commission rate changes starting that date."
"We are committed to terms that remain fair and transparent to all developers, and to always offering competitive App Store rates to developers distributing apps in China that are no higher than overall rates in other markets," added Apple.Tags: App Store, ChinaThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple’s cheapest MacBook might also be the easiest to repair The MacBook Neo is possibly Apple's most repairable MacBook ever, featuring easy-to-access internals and modular components.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Finally go paperless with a scanner that fits in your pocket for only $26 Macworld
TL;DR: iScanner is a pro-grade scanning and PDF editing app for mobile devices. Lifetime access is just $25.97 until April 12 (MSRP $199.90).
Imagine tossing your bulky scanner and filing cabinet out the metaphorical window — because your phone can do it all. With this lifetime subscription to iScanner, snapping a photo turns into a professional-quality scan in seconds for a one-time $25.97. Receipts, contracts, textbooks, ID cards — you name it, iScanner handles it. AI-powered tools automatically detect edges, straighten pages, remove distortions, and even recognize text in over 20 languages.
But this isn’t just a scanner. iScanner is a full PDF editor and file manager. Add signatures, blur sensitive info, mark up documents, merge files, split pages, or lock folders with a PIN. There are even scanning modes for math problems, measuring objects, and reading QR codes. Students, remote workers, and small business owners alike will love how simple it is to stay organized on the go.
This one-time purchase unlocks features including 200MB of cloud storage, updates, and full ad-free access on iOS or Android.
Grab lifetime access to iScanner today for $25.97 through April 12 and turn your phone into the scanner, editor, and document powerhouse you’ve always wanted.
iScanner App: Lifetime SubscriptionSee Deal
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Cloudflare Dashboard and Cloudflare API service issues Mar 13, 07:17 UTCInvestigating - Cloudflare is investigating intermittent issues with Cloudflare Dashboard and related APIs.These issues do not affect the serving of cached files via the Cloudflare CDN or other security features at the Cloudflare Edge.Customers using the Dashboard / Cloudflare APIs are impacted as requests might fail and/or errors may be displayed.
Google Maps navigation goes immersive with Gemini Google Maps is becoming smarter with Gemini, with a new interactive and detailed Immersive Navigation view and Ask Maps features.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
How many of you have a personal company to release your apps under? Hi guys, I was just curious how many of you created a personal company to release your apps under. I remember back in the early days of the App Store there were devs getting sued by patent trolls and the advice was to always release under a company. submitted by /u/SnowPudgy [link] […]
Want to feel bad? Read this SO post from 5 years ago: “What is considered an abnormal “In Review” time for App Store Connect (iOS) in 2021?” submitted by /u/aerial-ibis [link] [comments]
Apple's App Store in China gets lower 25% commission to appease regulators The controversial 30% App Store commission continues to be attacked by regulators worldwide. China is the latest region with a win, where Apple has pushed the rate down to 25%.Apple's new App Store commissions in China take effect on March 15Chinese regulators have been back and forth with Apple in recent years over the 30% App Store commission. The latest publicly known pressure occurred after President Trump slammed the country with seemingly random and outrageous tariffs in 2025.While nothing much else has happened in the public eye in the year since, Apple has announced a new commission rate via its developer blog. The new rates go into effect on March 15. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Apple to cut App Store commission rates in China starting March 15 Apple announced tonight that due to regulatory discussions in China, developers will pay lower App Store commission rates starting March 15. Here are the details.
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F1's debut race in the 2026 season beat everyone's expectations, even Apple's Apple's senior VP of services, Eddy Cue, is happy to share that viewership of the Australian Grand Prix was higher on Apple TV versus ESPN in 2025, but that's as much detail as we can expect.The F1 streaming deal brings every race of the season to Apple TVIt's the first race of the 2026 season, but Apple is already out celebrating the turnout with F1. The ecosystem-wide push helped Apple in other areas too, like the Sports app seeing its biggest week ever.These revelations were shared by Services SVP Eddy Cue via Hollywood Reporter. The success can likely be attributed to Apple's significant marketing push and the popularity of the F1 movie. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Emerging Service Issue – LKE Enterprise – JP, OSA (Osaka) Mar 13, 00:45 UTCInvestigating - Our team is investigating an emerging service issue affecting the deployment of new LKE Enterprise Clusters in JP, OSA (Osaka). We will share additional updates as we have more information.
My series is complete, hope yall enjoyed it – Building a Full-Stack Swift App – From Navigation to Deployment Working on other series too in the meantime! submitted by /u/unpluggedcord [link] [comments]
DME (Moscow) on 2026-03-13 THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Mar 13, 00:00 - 07:30 UTCMar 12, 23:30 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in DME (Moscow) datacenter on 2026-03-13 between 00:00 and 07:30 UTC.Traffic might be re-routed from this location, hence there is a possibility of a slight increase in latency during this maintenance window for end-users in the affected region. For PNI / CNI customers connecting with us in this location, please make sure you are expecting this traffic to fail over elsewhere during this maintenance window as network interfaces in this datacentre may become temporarily unavailable.You can now subscribe to these notifications via Cloudflare dashboard and receive these updates directly via email, PagerDuty and webhooks (based on your plan): https://developers.cloudflare.com/notifications/notification-available/#cloudflare-status.
Network Performance Issues in Russia Mar 12, 23:31 UTCUpdate - We are continuing to investigate this issue.Mar 12, 20:08 UTCInvestigating - Cloudflare is investigating issues with network performance in Russia. We are working to analyse and mitigate this problem. More updates to follow shortly.
New Local build error: “Browsing on the local area network for iPhone, which has previously reported preparation errors..” Two days ago the local build couldn't be verified, now I'm all of a sudden not being able to find my phone over wifi. anyone else having issues? works over cable but loses connection mid session sometimes when wired submitted by /u/draftkinginthenorth [link] [comments]
AI Gateway Mar 12, 23:15 UTCResolved - This incident has been resolved.Mar 12, 23:07 UTCMonitoring - A fix has been implemented and we are monitoring the results.Mar 12, 22:09 UTCInvestigating - Prepaid billing unable to purchase credits.
Apple TV scores its first F1 victory over ESPN viewership Apple TV just landed its first F1 victory over ESPN. Eddy Cue says that last weekend’s Australian Grand Prix race saw more viewership on Apple TV than the same race received on ESPN a year ago.
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Google Chrome Is Finally Coming To ARM64 Linux BrianFagioli writes: Google says it will finally release Chrome for ARM64 Linux in the second quarter of 2026, bringing the company's full browser to a platform that has existed for years without official support. Until now, Linux users running Arm hardware have largely relied on Chromium builds or unofficial packages if they wanted something close to Chrome. Google says the new build will include the same features found on other platforms, including Google account syncing, Chrome Web Store extensions, built-in translation, Safe Browsing protections, and Google Password Manager.
The timing reflects how ARM hardware is becoming more common across the Linux ecosystem, from developer laptops to AI systems. Google also pointed to NVIDIA's DGX Spark, a compact AI supercomputing device built on the Grace Blackwell architecture, which will support installing Chrome through NVIDIA's package management tools. For many Linux users, the announcement feels like a "finally" moment, as ARM64 Linux systems have been widespread for years despite the absence of an official Chrome build.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Grab Amazon's first material discounts on M5 Pro & M5 Max MacBook Pros After discounting the new M5 MacBook Air, Amazon is back today with deals on the brand-new M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro.Save on Apple's newest M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros - Image credit: AppleThe discounts can be found below, with units in stock and ready to ship. These are the brand-new configurations that were officially released yesterday, March 11.While the markdowns aren't extreme, they do reflect the lowest prices available on the retail models per our M5 Pro and M5 Max 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Guide and M5 Pro and M5 Max 16-inch MacBook Pro Price Guide. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
Anthropic's Claude Can Now Create Interactive Visuals Directly in Conversations Anthropic's Claude chatbot has been updated with support for inline visual content that will help it provide clearer answers.
Claude can now create custom visuals like charts, graphs, and diagrams. Visual content will be used when it better conveys an answer than plain text, and visual aids can also include real-world data like weather and recipes as long as web search is enabled. The visuals that Claude creates are distinct from Artifacts, and use HTML and SVG rather than image generation.
Claude is able to display current weather conditions and forecasts when users ask about the weather in specific locations, and it can provide formatted recipe cards that are easier to follow than a block of text. Weather and recipe data are only available on the desktop for now, because those visuals do not render in the iOS app.
Anthropic says that Claude is also able to ask structured questions using interactive multiple choice inputs instead of requiring users to type a response. Claude will use visuals when an answer calls for it, but users can also ask Claude to create a visual aid.
Visual responses and interactive content are available to all Claude users.Tag: AnthropicThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Adjustments to the China storefront of the App Store on iOS and iPadOS Apple is making changes to the App Store in China following discussions with the Chinese regulator.As of March 15, 2026, changes will be made to the commission rates that apply to the China mainland storefront of the App Store on iOS and iPadOS.The commission rate for standard Apple In-App Purchase and paid app transactions will be 25%. Currently, the rate is 30%. The commission rate for qualifying Apple In-App Purchase transactions under the App Store Small Business Program and Mini Apps Partner Program, and for auto-renewals of Apple In-App Purchase subscriptions after the first year, will be 12%. Currently, the rate is 15%.Signing the updated terms by March 15 is not required to receive the benefit of these commission rate changes starting that date.We strive for iOS and iPadOS to be the best app ecosystem and a great business opportunity for developers in China. We are committed to terms that remain fair and transparent to all developers, and to always offering competitive App Store rates to developers distributing apps in China that are no higher than overall rates in other markets.The Apple Developer Program License Agreement has been revised to support updated policies. You can sign in to your account to accept the updated terms.Translations of the updated agreement will be available on Apple Developer website within one month.
Former Microsoft lead reviews the MacBook Neo: ‘It just has to stay excellent’ Steven Sinofsky, Microsoft’s former President of the Windows Division, published an interesting review of the MacBook Neo, where he also explores what went wrong with Microsoft’s own early push toward lightweight ARM-based PCs. Here’s what he said.
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Former Microsoft lead reviews the MacBook Neo: ‘It just has to stay excellent’ Steven Sinofsky, Microsoft’s former President of the Windows Division, published an interesting review of the MacBook Neo, where he also explores what went wrong with Microsoft’s own early push toward lightweight ARM-based PCs. Here’s what he said.
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This app adds MacBook Neo and iMac accent colors to any Mac macOS includes device-specific accent color options for iMac and MacBook Neo. Any Mac can unlock these special color options, it turns out, with an app.
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This app adds MacBook Neo and iMac accent colors to any Mac macOS includes device-specific accent color options for iMac and MacBook Neo. Any Mac can unlock these special color options, it turns out, with an app.
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50 Years of Thinking Different Tim Cook’s public letter celebrating Apple's 50th anniversary invokes the Think Different campaign, but the company’s recent actions—from Tahoe's controversial icons to App Store battles—don’t necessarily align with those ideals.Read original article
Apple's MacBook Neo Makes Repairs Easier, Cheaper Than Other MacBooks Apple's new MacBook Neo is "easier to repair than other modern MacBooks," according to Ars Technica's Andrew Cunningham. It introduces a more repairable internal design that makes components like the battery and keyboard easier and cheaper to replace. An anonymous reader quotes an excerpt from the report: Replacements for pretty much any component in the Neo are simpler and involve fewer steps and tools than in the M5 MacBook Air. That includes the battery, which in the MacBook Air is attached to the chassis with multiple screws and adhesive strips but which in the Neo comes out relatively easily after you get some shielding and flex cables out of the way. But the most significant change in the Neo is that the keyboard is its own separate component. For essentially all modern MacBooks, going back at least as far as the late-2000s unibody aluminum MacBook designs, the keyboard has been integrated into the top part of the laptop case and is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to replace independently.
[...] Apple hasn't yet listed MacBook Neo components in its parts store, but based on the repair prices it has announced, Neo components should cost quite a bit less than those for higher-end MacBooks. An out-of-warranty battery replacement for the Neo will cost $149, down from $199 for current Airs and $229 for current MacBook Pros; fixing accidental screen or external enclosure damage will cost AppleCare+ subscribers $49 for a Neo, down from $99 for other MacBooks.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
If I change the name of my app, can other apps use the old name outright? Do I lost the copyright immediately? I was thinking of changing my app name to see if it improves ASO. But, in the meantime, do I lost the copyright of the old name? Can other app use the old name of the app ? submitted by /u/rifat_monzur [link] [comments]
iOS 26 added four new features I’ve been using almost every day Major iPhone updates like iOS 26 typically come with hundreds of new features and changes, but a much smaller subset that become daily go-tos. Here are four new iOS 26 features I’ve found myself using just about every day.
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MacBook Neo Arrives at $599 — Here’s How It Compares to the New M5 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro Apple has expanded its laptop lineup in a big way this week, introducing the all-new MacBook Neo just one day after refreshing the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro families with next-generation M5 chips. The Neo becomes Apple’s most affordable laptop ever, starting at $599 ($499 for education), and it marks a push to bring macOS to an even broader audience.
MacBook Neo features a durable aluminum enclosure weighing just 2.7 pounds and comes in four colors: blush, indigo, silver, and citrus. It has soft rounded corners and a cohesive design that extends to the Magic Keyboard and matching wallpapers. The 13-inch Liquid Retina display offers a 2408-by-1506 resolution, 500 nits of brightness, support for 1 billion colors, and an anti-reflective coating. For a laptop at this price point, the display specs are especially impressive and should make everyday tasks like browsing, writing, and streaming feel premium.
Under the hood, MacBook Neo is powered by the A18 Pro chip — the same class of silicon found in Apple’s high-end iPhones — scaled for the Mac. The system includes a 5-core GPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, enabling strong everyday performance and fast on-device AI tasks. Apple claims it is up to 50 percent faster for common tasks like web browsing compared to a Core Ultra 5 PC and up to three times faster for AI workloads. The design is fanless, meaning it runs completely silent. Battery life is rated at up to 16 hours, making it a strong all-day machine for students and casual users.
The Neo includes a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, dual beamforming microphones, and dual side-firing speakers with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos support. Connectivity is simple but sufficient: two USB-C ports (both capable of charging), a headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 6. It runs macOS Tahoe with built-in Apple Intelligence features and tight iPhone integration through Continuity tools like Handoff, Universal Clipboard, and iPhone Mirroring.
On the downside, the Neo only provides 8GB of RAM and 500 nits of display brightness.
By contrast, the newly updated MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models are built around Apple’s next-generation M-series chips: Apple M5, Apple M5 Pro, and Apple M5 Max. These processors are significantly more powerful than A18 Pro, offering more CPU and GPU cores, greater memory bandwidth, and much stronger sustained performance. While the MacBook Air remains fanless like the Neo, it is designed for heavier multitasking and more demanding creative tasks. It also typically offers longer battery life and expanded external display support.
The MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max go much further. With active cooling systems, they are built to handle prolonged high-performance workloads such as video editing, software development, 3D rendering, and advanced AI processing. The Pro lineup also features Apple’s Liquid Retina XDR displays with dramatically higher brightness, HDR support, and ProMotion 120Hz refresh rates. In addition, they offer a wider array of ports, including multiple Thunderbolt connections, HDMI, SD card slots, and MagSafe charging — features that professionals rely on daily.
Ultimately, MacBook Neo is not meant to compete with the Air or Pro on raw power. Instead, it establishes a new entry point into the Mac ecosystem. For students, families, and first-time Mac buyers who primarily browse the web, stream media, write papers, and occasionally edit photos, Neo may be more than sufficient. Users who need more performance headroom or plan to grow into heavier creative workloads will still find the MacBook Air a better long-term investment. Professionals whose livelihoods depend on speed, graphics power, and advanced display technology will continue to gravitate toward the MacBook Pro lineup.
With the introduction of MacBook Neo, Apple has created a clear three-tier structure: Neo for accessibility, Air for mainstream performance, and Pro for professional power. It’s a strategic move that broadens the Mac market while preserving meaningful differentiation across the lineup.
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Apple AirPods 4 on sale for $89, $40 off MSRP Walmart has Apple AirPods 4 on sale on their online store right now for $40 off MSRP, only $89. Sale price for online orders only, in-store price may vary. Order online and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available):
- AirPods 4: $89, $40 off
This is the lowest sale price available right now for Apple AirPods.
Keep an eye on our AirPods Price Tracker for the latest prices and deals, updated daily.
Take $100 off Apple Watch Series 11 models, prices start at $299 Walmart is offering a $100 online discount on Apple Watch Series 11 models right now. Sale prices for online orders only, in-store prices may vary. Order online and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available):
- 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
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iPad minis on sale again starting at $399, $100 off Apple’s MSRP Amazon is offering $100 discounts (up to 20% off) on Apple's 8.3" WiFi iPad minis, each with free shipping. These are the lowest prices available for 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
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M4 Mac mini on sale for $549, $50 off Apple’s MSRP B&H Photo has the base M4 Mac mini with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage on sale for $50 off MSRP, only $549, including free 1-2 day shipping to most US addresses:
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Their price is the lowest available for a new Mac mini.
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AirPods Max headphones back on 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.
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Best Buy Refund Refresh 4-Day iPad Pro Deals: Up to $150 off + free shipping Save on over 15 models, with prices starting from $949. We’ve pictured the Apple iPad Pro 11″ M5 512GB WiFi Tablet (2025) for $1,099 ($100 savings). My Best Buy members get free shipping on all orders (it’s free to join). Shop Now at Best Buy
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Take $100 off every M3-powered iPad Air at Target Target has WiFi 11-inch M3 iPad Airs and 13-inch M3 iPad Airs on sale for $100 off MSRP on their online store. Prices start at $499.99. Sale prices for online orders only, in-store prices may vary. Order online and choose free shipping or free local store pickup (if available).
For the latest prices & sales, keep an eye on our iPad Air Price Tracker, updated daily.
Refurbished 24-inch iMac Apple M3 Chip with 8-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU – Yellow – G19F0LL/A – $1,249.00 Refurbished 24-inch iMac Apple M3 Chip with 8-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU - Yellow
– G19F0LL/A
$1,249.00
Originally released October 2023
24-inch 4.5K Retina display;² 4480-by-2520 resolution at 218 pixels per inch with support for 1 billion colors
16GB unified memory
256GB SSD¹
Magic Keyboard with Touch ID⁵
1080p FaceTime HD camera
Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
Two USB 3 ports (up to 10Gb/s)
Product page on the Apple Store…
Apple’s 14-inch M5 MacBook Pros are on sale for up to $150 off MSRP, prices start at $1449 Amazon is offering 14" M5 MacBook Pro discounts ranging up to $150 off Apple's standard MSRP, each including free shipping:
- 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): $1692, MSRP $1799
- 14" M5 MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB/Black): $1849, MSRP $1999
- 14" M5 MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB/Silver): $1875, MSRP $1999
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For the latest sales and prices, keep an eye on our 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.
iPad Pro M5 Tablets at Best Buy: Up to $100 off + free shipping Save on close to 10 models, with prices starting from $949. We’ve pictured the Apple iPad Pro 13″ 512GB WiFi Tablet for $1,399 ($100 off). My Best Buy members get free shipping on all orders (it’s free to join). Shop Now at Best Buy
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MacBooks at Best Buy: Up to 80% off + free shipping Save on almost 300 models, with prices starting from $310. We’ve pictured the Apple 14″ MacBook Pro M4 Pro Laptop (2024) for $1,799 ($200 savings). My Best Buy members get free shipping on all orders (it’s free to join). Shop Now at Best Buy
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Mac mini with M4 Pro CPU on sale for $1299, $100 off Apple’s MSRP Amazon has M4 Pro Mac minis on sale for $100 off Apple's MSRP, only $1299. This model has 24GB of memory and 512GB of SSD storage. Shipping is free. Their price is the lowest currently available for this popular mini:
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Sunday Sale: $150 off MacBook Airs, prices start at $849 Amazon has 13" and 15" M4 MacBook Airs on sale for $150 off Apple's MSRP right now. Be sure to select Amazon as the seller, rather than a third-party:
- 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $849.99, $150 off
- 13" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $1049.99, $150 off
- 13" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB): $1249.99, $150 off
- 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB): $1049.99, $150 off
- 15" M4 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): $1249.99, $150 off
- 15" M4 MacBook Air (24GB/512GB/): $1449.99, $150 off
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For the latest sales & prices see our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker and 15" MacBook Air Price Tracker, both updated daily.
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