Firehose – News, Alerts, Docs
- Friday November 14
- 02:25 amIf you’re a Compressor user, you should really get the latest update
Apple has released Compressor 4.11.1, with an important security fix. Here are the details. more…02:11 amApple & OpenAI must face baseless xAI lawsuit about alleged anticompetitive collusion | AppleInsiderApple & OpenAI must face baseless xAI lawsuit about alleged anticompetitive collusion
Elon Musk wasn't happy with how xAI was performing in Apple's App Store compared to ChatGPT, so he filed a lawsuit, which Apple and OpenAI must now face after failing to get it dismissed.Elon Musk wants Apple's help to make Grok more popularThere are a lot of odd details surrounding a case that pits Elon Musk and former business partner Sam Altman against each other — with Apple trapped in the middle. Musk's xAI developed Grok to compete with ChatGPT, but it has fallen short with a highly biased bot programmed to promote right-wing extremism in place of facts.While Grok is technically impressive on its own, its bias has made it a limited competitor to those seeking out that kind of biased information. According to a report from Bloomberg, Apple and OpenAI must face a lawsuit claiming that the failure of Grok's popularity is due to anticompetitive behavior. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums02:07 amAmazon unveils $18 Apple AirTag deal, the lowest price ever
The lowest AirTag price on record is in effect now, making it a perfect time to pick one up for holiday travel or as an affordable stocking stuffer.Get the lowest price ever on Apple's AirTag at Amazon.The $18 deal at Amazon reflects a 38% discount off retail on the Apple AirTag and delivers a new record low price on the single pack.Get the $18 AirTag deal Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums01:53 amChatGPT gaining group chat feature in four regions
OpenAI is piloting a pretty big ChatGPT feature in select markets. The company is rolling out the ability to have group chats with ChatGPT for the first time. more…01:40 amTerraMaster F2-425 2-bay NAS review: Features beyond its bay count
The TerraMaster F2-425 may be a two-bay NAS, but it offers the functionality of bigger and more premium models on the market.TerraMaster F2-425 2-Bay NASThe typical expectation for a prosumer NAS is for it to provide extra features beyond data storage. They're also usually premium models, and often have space for a lot of drives, which can get expensive quickly.You can get NAS devices with far fewer drives to save money initially, but they also tend to be more limited in terms of features. They are frequently entry-level, having token functions that don't work that well compared to the more expensive four-bay versions. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums01:23 amApple and OpenAI fail to dismiss Elon Musk’s antitrust lawsuit
A US District Judge rejected Apple’s request to toss the lawsuit that accuses it and OpenAI of thwarting competition in the AI sector. Here are the details. more…01:19 amEmerging Service Issue – API
Nov 14, 01:11 UTCInvestigating - Our team is investigating an emerging service issue affecting the Linode API. We will share additional updates as we have more information.12:58 amApple and OpenAI Must Face xAI Lawsuit Over Siri Integration
Apple and OpenAI were not able to get a lawsuit filed by Elon Musk's xAI startup dismissed, reports Bloomberg. Texas District Judge Mark Pittman said today that Apple and OpenAI will need to continue on with the lawsuit and submit filings arguing their case. xAI sued Apple and OpenAI in August 2025, accusing the two companies of conspiring to dominate the AI market. The lawsuit came after Musk complained that his apps X and Grok had not been featured in the App Store's "Must Have" apps section. The lawsuit claimed that Apple was "blindsided by major innovations in AI," leading it to team up with OpenAI in a "desperate bid to protect its smartphone monopoly." It referenced Siri's ChatGPT integration, because Apple has not established deals with other companies for Siri integration. xAI said that if iPhone users want to access a generative AI chatbot, "they have no choice but to use ChatGPT, even if they would prefer to use more innovative and imaginative products like xAI's Grok." iPhone users can, of course, download any chatbot app from the App Store, but xAI said that apps do not have the same "functionality, usability, and integration" as ChatGPT does with Siri. The lawsuit also accused Apple of "deprioritizing" the apps of competing generative AI chatbots, and depriving Grok of data from billions of iPhone users because Grok isn't integrated with Siri like ChatGPT. The lawsuit claims that xAI "sought an integration" with Apple Intelligence, and was denied. In a filing earlier this month, Apple and OpenAI both argued that the lawsuit is flawed because there is no exclusivity deal that prevents Apple from integrating other chatbots into Siri. xAI has asked the court to put a stop to Apple and OpenAI's "anticompetitive scheme," and help it "recover billions in damages."Tags: Apple Antitrust, Elon Musk, GrokThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums12:51 amXcode losing reference to installed simulator.
Second time now, Xcode 26.1 and now 26.1.1, is telling me iOS is not installed even though everything is there. I must have been holding it wrong 🤦♂️ On a separate note, it's insane that I must have specially the latest version of simulator or nothing can be launched. Even on device lol. submitted […]12:38 amOpera says DMA contributed to 5x growth of iOS users in Europe
Norway-based Opera announced today that its iOS user base in Europe has grown by as much as five times since the Digital Markets Act (DMA) took effect in 2024. Here are the details. more…12:19 amApple Maps rolls out Look Around and Detailed City Experience features in Kansas City
Missourians and Kansans alike can now virtually navigate the metro area within Kansas City in richer detail, including Apple’s in-street viewing feature. Here are the details. more…12:15 amApple Releases Second macOS Tahoe 26.2 Public Beta With Edge Light
Apple today provided public beta testers with the second beta of an upcoming macOS Tahoe 26.2 update for testing purposes. The public beta comes a day after Apple provided the beta to developers. After signing up for beta testing on Apple's beta site, public beta testers can download the updates using the Software Update section in the System Settings app. macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2 adds an Edge Light feature for video calls. Edge Light provides a light border around the edges of the Mac's display, mimicking the look of a physical ring light to improve lighting in darkened rooms. Edge Light uses the Neural Engine for positioning, so it is optimally placed around your face in the video frame. Light color can be adjusted from warm to cool, and the feature is available in video conferencing apps alongside other options like backgrounds, Portrait mode, and Voice Isolation. It is available on Macs that support Apple silicon. The macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta is limited to developers and public beta testers right now, but it won't be a long testing period. We'll likely see Apple release the update right around mid-December given past launch timelines.Related Roundup: macOS Tahoe 26Related Forum: macOS TahoeThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums12:12 amApple releases macOS Tahoe 26.2 public beta 2
macOS public beta testers can now download macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2, which introduces a clever feature for video calls. Here’s what’s new. more…12:00 amIssue 735
Can we briefly talk about keeping track of the Swift open-source project? 💼12:00 amAirPods firmware update brings hope to wearers of Apple earbuds
Here's how to see if you have the latest AirPods firmware, which brings bug fixes, plus how to force an update if you don’t. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)Thursday November 1311:53 pmUS SMS Carrier Maintenance – Small US Carriers
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Nov 18, 02:00 - 04:00 PSTNov 13, 15:34 PSTScheduled - A subset of small networks in the US are conducting a planned maintenance from 18 November 2025 at 02:00 PST until 18 November 2025 at 04:00 PST. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent delays delivering SMS to and from small US carriers handsets.11:50 pmApple Tries Selling $230 iPhone Pocket 'Sock'
Longtime Slashdot reader dskoll shares a press release from Apple: Issey Miyake and Apple today unveiled iPhone Pocket. Inspired by the concept of "a piece of cloth," its singular 3D-knitted construction is designed to fit any iPhone as well as all pocketable items. When stretched, the open textile subtly reveals its contents and allows users to peek at their iPhone display. iPhone Pocket can be worn in a variety of ways -- handheld, tied onto bags, or worn directly on the body. Featuring a playful color palette, the short strap design is available in eight colors, and the long strap design in three colors. The "Long" sock variant comes in at only $229.95 and is available in three elegant colors: sapphire, cinnamon, and black. What do Slashdotters think of this very real product? Read more of this story at Slashdot.11:34 pmReport: Paid subscription for MLS on Apple TV to end in 2026
Macworld In 2022, Apple and Major League Soccer agreed to a big deal that made Apple TV the streaming provider for all of the league’s matches (local broadcasters still offered games on network TV). However, those matches required a paid subscription. That paywall is going away for the upcoming 2026 MLS season, according to The Athletic. MLS matches next season will simply be part of a regular Apple TV subscription, according to the report. An Apple TV subscription is $12.99/£12.99 per month, or $99 per year. Previously, Apple offered MLS Season Pass, which was $14.99 per month or $99 per year (an Apple TV subscription was not required). Neither Apple nor MLS has made an official announcement about the change. While the report may seem surprising, the signs that foretold a change were apparent. The 2026 MLS playoffs (which are happening now) are not behind a paywall on Apple TV. Earlier this year, reports stated that MLS commissioner Dan Garber called Apple “a great technology partner,” but there were questions on whether Apple TV was the best venue for the league’s efforts to expand its fanbase. Apple and MLS began a ten-year deal that started with the 2023 season. The changes come a month after Apple and Formula 1 signed a five-year deal for Apple TV to stream all F1 races. In that deal, practices, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix will be available to Apple TV subscribers, and select races and all practice sessions will be available for free in the Apple TV app. F1 TV Premium will continue to be available in the U.S. via an Apple TV subscription only for $17 per month.11:23 pmUnited States SMS and MMS Carrier Maintenance – T-Mobile
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Nov 16, 21:00 PST - Nov 17, 03:00 PSTNov 13, 15:08 PSTScheduled - The T-Mobile network in the United States is conducting a planned maintenance from 16 November 2025 at 21:00 PST until 17 November 2025 at 03:00 PST. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent delays delivering SMS and MMS to and from T-Mobile United States handsets when sending via long codes and short codes.10:59 pmBelkin recalls three products, including two USB-C power banks, due to fire hazards
Accessory maker Belkin has issued a product safety recall notice due to a fire hazard affecting three of its products. Here are the details. more…10:59 pmAirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, & AirPods 4 receive new firmware update
Firmware updates for the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4 have been deployed, though there are currently no details about the update's contents.Apple has released firmware updates for the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4.On Thursday, following the release of iOS 26.2 beta 2, Apple issued a firmware update for its more recent AirPods and AirPods Pro models.For the AirPods Pro 3, the firmware update changes the build number to 8B25, whereas the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 can now be updated to build 8B21. Both build numbers are higher than that of the preceding 8A358 update, released in October 2025. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums10:41 pmSatechi Launches New 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter
Satechi today announced the launch of a new OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter, which provides access to seven ports in a pocket-sized enclosure that's ideal to bring along when traveling. The hub is similar in size to a hockey puck, and it includes a magnet so it can be attached to the back of a MagSafe iPhone or to a magnetic iPad case. Along with a USB-C port that offers up to 100W of passthrough charging, Satechi's adapter has the following ports: HDMI 4K/60Hz USB-A (5Gb/s) USB-A (5Gb/s) SD card reader (up to 104MB/s, up to 2TB) microSD card reader (up to 104MB/s, up to 2TB) Gigabit Ethernet With the magnetic connection, the adapter can be connected to the back of an iPhone and used to access storage on an SD card or connected USB-A storage device. The adapter is compatible with iPhones, iPads, Macs, PCs, Android devices, and more. For devices that don't have an included magnet, there is an adhesive ring to attach the adapter to the product, keeping it out of the way. Satechi includes a braided USB-C cable that wraps around the adapter. Satechi's OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter can be purchased from the Satechi website for $60.Tag: SatechiThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums10:30 pmWeb Summit: Apple Music co-lead discusses AI and the future of music creation
As expected, Apple Music co-lead Ole Obermann spoke today at the Web Summit event in Lisbon, where he was joined by Dutch DJ and producer Armin van Buuren. Here are the details. more…10:14 pmApple TV subscribers will get Major League Soccer games for free in 2026
Fans of Major League Soccer will no longer need an MLS Season Pass to watch games in 2026, as Apple has decided to make MLS content free for Apple TV subscribers.Apple TV subscribers will gain access to MLS games at no extra cost, starting in 2026.Following the publication of a rumor earlier on Thursday, Apple has now confirmed that users with an Apple TV subscription will gain access to MLS games at no additional charge in 2026.Apple TV subscribers will be able to watch regular-season matches, Leagues Cup games, the MLS All-Star Game, the Campeones Cup, and MLS Cup Playoffs for free. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums10:04 pmIt’s official: Major League Soccer is coming to Apple TV subscribers at no additional cost in 2026 | Mac Daily NewsIt’s official: Major League Soccer is coming to Apple TV subscribers at no additional cost in 2026
Major League Soccer (MLS) and Apple on Thursday announced that beginning in 2026, all MLS matches will be available to stream… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.10:01 pmTool for App Store translations?
I want to start supporting most languages in my app App Store page but doing 30+ translations manually every update seems a lot of work. Do you use any tool to automate it? submitted by /u/Comprehensive-Dig-31 [link] [comments]09:54 pmApple published a new Press Release
Apple just published a new Press Release:Major League Soccer is coming to Apple TV starting in 202609:47 pmTrying to understand Apple’s policy for charity donations for my charity app idea. | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingTrying to understand Apple’s policy for charity donations for my charity app idea.
Hi friends, I’m currently taking a bootcamp for iOS development and very excited to build my first app. I’ve searched around for hours and can’t seem to find the answer to my problem and haven’t paid for the Developer license yet. So I’m afraid to call them up! 🤣 The idea: a donation app for […]09:47 pmUpdate Event lead to 150k impressions in three days but from where?
My app has been out for a few months and I decided to do an App Store event for my latest update adding a major feature. I was shocked to see the impressions since the release a few days ago. In three days I've gotten like 50k impressions per day compared to usually only a […]09:41 pmApple's 40W Dynamic Power Adapter Expands to New Countries
Apple is expanding availability of its new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max to several countries that use type G plugs. The new variant of the adapter features a three-prong folding design that is distinct from the initial two-prong versions that launched in September alongside the iPhone 17 models. The new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter design is available for purchase in the UK, Ireland, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. Apple previously launched the Dynamic Power Adapter in the U.S., Canada, China, Japan, Mexico, Taiwan, and the Philippines. The 40W Dynamic Power Adapter is the same size as Apple's 20W charger, but it is able to deliver 40W for faster charging. It also provides up to 60W in short bursts to speed up charging even further. In the United States, the Dynamic Power Adapter is priced at $39, but prices vary in other countries. (Thanks, Akarshan!)This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums09:36 pmKensington's latest docks tap full Thunderbolt 5 power on supported M4 Macs
Kensington's new Thunderbolt 5 docks give Apple Silicon users a way to tap Thunderbolt 5's full bandwidth.Kensington has new Thunderbolt 5 docksThunderbolt 5 doubles the baseline bandwidth of Thunderbolt 4 and reaches 80 Gbps under normal operation. It also supports a higher peak mode that helps with video-heavy workloads.Apple and Intel launched Thunderbolt 5 for fast storage and high-resolution displays. Kensington is among the first major accessory makers to release docks using the full spec. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums09:31 pmApple Store app gets Liquid Glass overhaul and a new icon
The Apple Store application has been updated to utilize the Liquid Glass material Apple introduced with iOS 26.The Apple Store app now has a Liquid Glass app icon.On Thursday, following the release of iOS 26.2 beta 2, the official Apple Store iOS app received a design refresh. With a new icon and revamped user interface, the application no longer looks out of place on a modern iPhone.To be more specific, the Apple Store app now takes advantage of the controversial Liquid Glass design language, originally previewed at WWDC. Apple inverted the colors of the app's icon, meaning it now features a white bag with an Apple logo on top of a blue background. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums09:26 pmNew Swift package: “swiftui-pin-pad” – thoughts?
https://i.redd.it/zapl196hh31g1.gif submitted by /u/drew4drew [link] [comments]09:23 pmUnited Kingdom Account Security Carrier Partner Maintenance – EE
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Nov 19, 21:00 - 22:30 PSTNov 13, 13:11 PSTScheduled - Our carrier partner EE United Kingdom is conducting a planned maintenance from 19 November 2025 at 21:00 PST until 19 November 2025 at 22:30 PST. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent API request failures for EE United Kingdom customers.Impacted Products: Verify Silent Network Auth, Lookup Identity Match, Lookup SIM Swap, Legacy Identity MatchAndAttributes09:17 pmApp can’t open files in its own documents directory?
I'm using URL.documentsDirectory.appending(path:) and Data(contentsOf:) to persist my game's state to the local filesystem. This has been working fine in development and on my own device, but just now I'm noticing a number of production errors in my app's analytics: The file “gameState.json” couldn’t be opened because you don’t have permission to view it. Googling […]09:12 pmApple tightens App Review Guidelines to crack down on copycat apps
Apple has updated its App Review Guidelines with multiple new rules, including one targeting the misleading use of other developers’ branding. Here are the details. more…09:09 pmApple Begins Selling Some Third-Party Accessories in 'Dark Cherry' Color
Apple has teamed up with a handful of accessory makers to offer charging stands, cables, a power bank, a laptop sleeve, and more in a Dark Cherry color. The range of Dark Cherry accessories were added to Apple's online store this week in the U.S. and many other countries, with delivery and in-store pickup available. Participating brands include Herschel, Nimble, PopSockets, Zens, and others. Here are all of the Dark Cherry accessories:Nimble Champ Stretch 10K Charger Nimble Daily Travel Kit Zens USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable Pro 2 Zens Magnetic Nightstand Charger Zens USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable Pro 3 PopSockets Kick-Out Grip & Stand (MagSafe Compatible) Herschel Cloud Burrard Tech Organizer Cote & Ciel Inn Sleek Bag for iPad (11-inch) Rains 14" Puffer Laptop Cover for iPad and MacBookThis sort of thing has happened before. Earlier this year, Apple exclusively offered some third-party accessories in Teal, Coral, and Deep Purple.Tag: Apple StoreThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums09:04 pmSave a bundle on AirTags 4-pack and track all the things
You can hoard Apple trackers for yourself or make the whole family a bit more organized for less money, thanks to this epic AirTag deal. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)08:56 pmRumor Replay: iPhone Air 2 still coming, iPhone 18 Pro rumors, more
This is Rumor Replay, a weekly column at 9to5Mac offering a quick rundown of the most recent Apple product rumors, with analysis and commentary. Today: the iPhone Air 2 lives, iPhone 18 Pro rumors, and the latest updates on 2026 Macs. Here are this week’s Apple rumors. more…08:43 pmSDK or hosted services for in-app commenting/reviewing
Working on a new app (my second) – with this one I want to integrate a bit of social aspects to it – think commenting on items, reviews, a forum, etc… Do most people roll their own commenting backend (Cloudkit? Firebase) or is there a hosted service like Disqus that can be used to do […]08:42 pmApple Store app updated with Liquid Glass support
Slowly but surely, Apple has been updating its own apps with the Liquid Glass look announced at WWDC. Today, it was the Apple Store app’s turn to get the visual update. more…08:36 pmApple Store App Gets Liquid Glass Update With New Icon
Apple today updated its Apple Store app for the iPhone and iPad, introducing a new icon that better matches the Liquid Glass design changes added in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26. The new version of the icon features a Liquid Glass shopping bag on a blue gradient background. The prior version of the icon had a blue shopping bag on a white background. Apple also adopted Liquid Glass design elements for the rest of the app, adding a transparent, rounded navigation bar with a Liquid Glass slider, and an updated search interface. Aside from these design changes, the content in the app is the same. The Apple Store app features Apple products and accessories, as well as quick access links for support. It can be downloaded from the App Store for free. [Direct Link]Tag: Apple StoreThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums08:32 pmApple releases new firmware for AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2
Macworld Apple just updated AirPods firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Pro 3. The old firmware version was 8A358, the new version is 8B21 for AirPods Pro 2 and 8B25 for AirPods Pro 3. We don’t yet know what these updates are supposed to do, as they are not listed on Apple’s AirPods Firmware tracking page. However, once it arrives, it’s likely the release notes will simply say “bug fixes and other improvements.” iOS 26.2 will add Live Translation support for the EU and is expected to be released in early December, so this firmware may have something to do with that. There is no way to force your AirPods to update, but we have an article describing how AirPods firmware updates work and how you can urge it along.08:26 pmBest over-ear headphones: Top AirPods Max alternatives for 2025
Macworld Large over-ear headphones have taken a bit of a backseat in recent years, overshadowed by the success of Apple’s AirPods and other pocket-size earbuds (sometimes referred to as true wireless stereo headphones, or TWS). Larger over-ear headphones do still have some important advantages, though, and they’ve been making a bit of a comeback. The most obviously advantage is the fact that due to their larger size they can use larger drivers–the mechanism inside the earpiece that produces the sound you listen to–providing a more powerful and detailed sound. Larger earpieces can also provide longer battery life, with many of Apple’s rivals providing far more than the 20-24 hours of the Beats and AirPods range. Apple has its own Bluetooth over-ear headphone offering, the AirPods Max, but there is plenty of competition in this space, including competition from Apple’s own subsidiary Beats, which has been known to produce superior and less expensive headphones than Apple. Apple is also up against traditional Hi-Fi manufacturers, such as Bowers & Wilkins, who have decades of expertise producing over-ear headphones that can meet the demanding standards of audiophiles and Hi-Fi buffs. So here’s our guide to some of the best over-ear headphones currently available for use with your Mac, iPhone or iPad. Best Over-Ear Headphones We have tested the best over-ear headphones (AKA on-ear, cans or full-sized headphones) alongside Apple’s AirPods Max to see what the best option for iPhone, iPad or Mac users seeking a pair of over-ear headphones is. We cover other styles of headphones separately, see: Best earbuds for iPhone and Best wired and USB-C headphones. We also have a comparison of all the AirPods. Our top choice for Apple users is the Beats Studio Pro because they offer most of the Apple-specific benefits of the AirPods Max as well as great sound at a lower price. We also like the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3, which offer excellent sound quality and impressive battery at a good price. Wondering what’s going on with the AirPods Max? Read AirPods Max 2 rumors: When will Apple update the AirPods Max? 1. Beats Studio Pro – Best over-ear headphones for Apple users Pros Lightweight Good compatibility with Apple and other devices 3.5mm and USB-C audio input Excellent battery life Clean and balanced audio Cons Headband is a little stiff No ear detection Price When Reviewed: $349.99 Best Prices Today: New Refurbished Retailer Price $179.99 View Deal $249.95 View Deal $249.99 View Deal $249.99 View Deal $349 View Deal $349.99 View Deal $349.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Beats Studio Pro Noise cancelling Headphone Bluetooth – Navy $189.99 View Deal Price comparison from Backmarket The Beats Studio Pro are one of the over-ear headphone options from Apple owned Beats. Compared to the AirPods Max (see: AirPods Max vs Beats Studio Pro) they cost less and deliver better sound. They also offer most of the AirPods features, including one-touch pairing, iCloud pairing (although not instant switching), Handoff to Apple Watch, hands-free “Hey Siri” support, and Find My support. They even support personalized Spatial Audio and head tracking. You’ll find all the necessary controls built natively into iOS, as you would expect from of a product from an Apple-owned company. There are a few missing Apple features, such as ear detection (which would stop them playing when you took them off) and they don’t feature Apple’s H-series headphone chips (even though some Beats products do). Instead, they offer a proprietary Beats processor which allows them to more easily support Android features. The Beats Studio Pro sound really good. The low end has the clarity and punch of AirPods Max, but the high frequencies are noticeably crisper. The built-in DAC supports hi-res and lossless audio up to 24-bit/48KHz. Adaptive noise canceling quality is excellent, though perhaps not as good as the 2nd-gen AirPods Pro. Noise canceling is not supported in USB-C wired mode. The headphone’s mic can be used as mic input on your Mac or PC (though the quality is not up to the standard of a good dedicated headset). They are less comfortable to wear than the AirPods Max. The ear cushions don’t have the soft velvety feel of AirPods Max, and the headband is much stiffer, but they are lighter (260 grams compared to 384 grams). They fold up to easily fit in a bag and come with a real carrying case. On the left cup, you’ll find integrated controls concealed by the b. These are standard play/pause/advance/back control buttons. You’ll also find a standard headphone jack with audio input fully supported without any dongles or adapters. On the right cup you’ll find the power button which is also used to enter pairing mode, or you can double-click it to change noise canceling modes between Signature, Entertainment and Conversation. There is also a USB-C port for charging that can also be plugged any supported audio source for audio input. We got around 4 hours of playback time from a 10-minute charge. A full charge takes around 2 hours. Beats claims 40 hours of battery life with ANC off and 24 hours with ANC on. That’s about 20 percent better than AirPods Max. Even if they weren’t $200 cheaper, we’d recommend these over the AirPods Max. The lack of ear detection is a bummer, but Beats Studio Pro delivers betters sound, battery life, controls, and compatibility, and they weigh a lot less too.-Jason Cross Read our full Beats Studio Pro review 2. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 – Great sound, good price Pros Excellent sound quality Competitive price Impressive battery life Cons Noise-cancellation could be stronger No spatial audio or Dolby Atmos Price When Reviewed: $449 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $478.89 View Deal $479 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Px7 S3 is Bowers & Wilkins fourth-generation update for their over-ear Px7 headphones. Resembling their predecessors, with sleek lines and a minimalist design, and available in various pastel shades. B&W has reduced the thickness and weight of the earpieces, making the S3 lighter and more comfortable for long wear and travel. There is also impressive 30-hour battery life even with noise cancellation. The Px7 S3 supports both wired and wireless modes, Bluetooth 5.3, AAC for Apple devices, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless for Android, and is developing its own spatial audio feature for a software update in the future. The PX range, which had USB-C charging and wired audio capabilities before Apple’s AirPods Max, now features a USB-C port supporting high-res audio formats up to 24-bit/96KHz, surpassing the AirPods Max’s 24-bit/48KHz. This allows it to handle most high-res tracks on Apple Music. The included USB-C and 3.5mm audio cables support wired connections with most computers and mobile devices, and a hard-shell carrying case is also provided. Sound quality is excellent, with the Px7 S3 handling the complex sounds of Ricky Martin’s She Bangs. It separates each instrument, even the rattling percussion, and captures the energy of the horns and Ricky’s vocals. The Px7 S3 also handles delicate sounds, as demonstrated by Max Richter’s On The Nature Of Daylight from The Last Of Us (episode 3). The gentle, winding melody of the cellos, combined with the mournful tone of the strings, creates a tear-jerking atmosphere. The violins and viola add to the bittersweet mood, and the Px7 S3 creates a sense of space that allows the strings to float gracefully and weave a delicate dance. The Px7 S3 excels in sound quality and value for money, but its noise-cancellation features are less effective than those of more expensive rivals like the AirPods Max and Bose QC Ultra. While it blocks low-frequency sounds well, higher frequencies like voices in a busy airport still leak through. If noise-cancellation is your priority, there are more expensive headphones that block out background noise more effectively. However, the Px7 S3’s excellent sound quality and impressive battery life make it a great option for anyone seeking high-quality headphones at a competitive price.-Cliff Joseph Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 review 3. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 – Exceptional sound quality Pros Superb sound quality Great bass sound 30 hours battery life Bluetooth and wired modes Cons Expensive Noise-cancellation could be stronger No Spatial Audio (yet) Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $799 View Deal $799 View Deal Bowers & Wilkins $799 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The original Px8 from Bowers & Wilkins was a top pick for over-ear headphones when it launched in 2022. The Px8 S2 costs more than its predecessor and Apple’s AirPods Max. The high price is justified by a luxurious design and improved sound quality. The Px8 S2 looks similar to its predecessor, with B&W’s trademark rectangular earpieces with rounded corners and a curved aluminium armature. The earpieces are slightly slimmer and lighter, weighing 310g compared to 386g for the AirPods Max. Despite the weight reduction, the build quality remains high, with padded earpieces and a headband wrapped in soft Nappa leather. The Px8 S2 is light and comfortable for long wear, with redesigned button controls for firmer volume adjustments. The sturdy aluminium armature ensures durability, and a hardshell carrying case is included for travel. Inside, B&W has fine-tuned the 40mm carbon-fibre drivers to reduce distortion and improve bass. Wireless audio has been updated with Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Lossless, and AAC for Apple devices. A USB-C port, cable, and 3.5mm-to-USB-C cable allow for wired high-res audio. Eight microphones improve noise cancellation and clarity on voice calls. Battery life is impressive at 30 hours with noise cancellation (compared to 20 hours for AirPods Max). A quick-charge feature provides seven hours of music after 15 minutes. The B&W Music app has been updated with a five-band equaliser and custom presets, a feature missing in previous versions. However, support for Dolby Atmos or spatial audio is missing – a software update for spatial audio and Bluetooth Auracast is planned. The Px8 S2 lives up to the claim of being B&W’s best headphones. To test its improved bass performance, I played Max Richter’s Shadow Journal. The Px8 S2 created a hazy, ambient sound for the electronic loops, with clear violins and violas, and effectively embraced the reverberating bass rumble. The improved noise-cancellation was evident in blocking the low-frequency drone of an aircraft engine, though it let in a noticeable whisper of higher frequencies. The AirPods Max and Bose’s QuietComfort headphones still have the edge in noise-cancellation. The Px8 S2 excels in sound quality, wired connectivity, and battery life, but the price is high. You may find a good deal on older Px8 and we’ve also looked at the company’s mid-range Px7 S3, both included.-Cliff Joseph Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 review 4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra – Excellent noise cancellation Pros High-grade audio reproduction Bose’s best-ever active noise cancellation All day wearability Immersive Audio Cons While improved, battery life isn’t state of the art Immersive Audio can be gimmicky Price When Reviewed: $429.00 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $329 View Deal $329.99 View Deal $349 View Deal Bose $429 View Deal $429 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are pricy, but they are still cheaper than the Apple AirPods Max. They do offer excellent sound quality and active noise cancellation, though, which goes a long way to justify the price. They also support aptX streaming, and feature Bose’s CustomTune technology for personalizing the headphones’ audio to your unique ears. There’s also a spatial audio option. Operational controls are minimalist. On the right-hand cup, there are two buttons and a thin thermal volume strip. Sliding a finger up or down the strip adjusts the volume. Tapping and holding the strip activates one of several shortcuts. A second button performs several functions such as play and pause the music, answer or decline a call. A long press lets you cycle through audio listening modes including Quiet, Aware and Immersion. There’s also a Wind Noise Suppression feature. Immersive Audio feature is particularly impressive, but doesn’t suit every music type. On-Head Detection circuitry senses when you put them on and take them off, so there is no need for the power button. The manufacturer says they will auto-shut off after 24 hours of idle time. Run time is quoted as up to 24 hours and they achieve a full charge in less than three hours The headband is soft-touch pleather and the memory foam in the ear cups feels premium grade. It seals and cushions reasonably without being bulky and resided comfortably on my head almost all day long. –Jonathan Takiff 5. Sonos Ace – Top-notch active noise cancellation Pros Comfortable Stylish and premium feel Transfer sound from Sonos soundbars Top-notch noise cancelling and transparency Cons Sonos App upon release is in rough shape Pricey Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $349 View Deal $349 View Deal Sonos $349 View Deal $374 View Deal $384 View Deal $399 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Sonos Ace is expensive, but delivers excellent quality. Audio quality is roughly on par with AirPods Max—you’ll want to bump up the treble just a touch in the Sonos app’s EQ settings—and noise cancelling holds its own against contemporaries from Bose, Sony, et al. Of note, the transparency mode (Sonos calls it “Aware Mode”) on the Ace is the only one I’ve ever heard that’s as good as Apple’s. Battery life is fantastic, rated at 30 hours with ANC enabled, and you get some nice features like full USB-C audio mode (with support for lossless audio) and a standard 3.5mm plug for analog sources. If you also sometimes use Android products, you’ll be happy to know you give up none of its features, and in fact with some Android headsets (those that use AptX Lossless) you can even do lossless audio over Bluetooth. One downside is that it slightly defies expectations for those who are used to Sonos products; unlike all the Sonos speakers, this is not a Wi-Fi connected product that directly streams audio. Rather, it’s Bluetooth only and streams audio from your phone or other Bluetooth device. If you have a Sonos soundbar, a long-press of the main “content key” will instantly swap the audio from your soundbar to your Ace headphones and back again.-Jason Cross Read more of our impressions of the Sonos Ace here. 6. JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX – Auracast headphones Price When Reviewed: $449.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $449.95 View Deal JBL $449.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket JBL’s Tour One M3 headphones come in various colours. They also include a separate ‘Smart TX’ transmitter that can connect to wired audio sources like laptops or in-flight entertainment systems. It transmits wireless audio to the M3 via Bluetooth or Auracast to multiple nearby headphones that support Auracast, a new broadcasting technology. Auracast allows one device or audio source to transmit Bluetooth audio to multiple sets of headphones. The M3 has a conventional design with large padded earpieces and an adjustable headband. It weighs only 278g, making it light and comfortable for long journeys. The lightweight plastic casing lacks the sturdiness of the AirPods Max, but JBL includes a hard-shell carrying case for safety. Battery life is excellent, lasting 70 hours on a single charge. Active noise-cancellation reduces this to 40 hours, but it should still suffice for long flights. The M3 also has a fast-charge feature that provides five hours of music with a quick five-minute charge. The M3 can be used on its own via Bluetooth or with a wired connection via the USB-C port on the right earpiece. It supports Apple’s AAC codec for Bluetooth audio and Sony’s LDAC, but it lacks the high-quality aptX codec, which is a disappointment given its price. Sound quality using AAC is fine, and the M3 handles the sounds on Ricky Martin’s She Bangs well, streamed from Apple Music in lossless format. The lively energy of the horns and the smooth sound of the bass guitar make it enjoyable. The M3 also pulls out details in the mix, including the light tinkling piano, rattling cowbells, and maracas. The noise-cancellation is good at dealing with low-frequency drone, but leaves room for improvement. It can’t match the highly effective noise-cancellation of more expensive rivals like the AirPods Max or the Bose Quiet Comfort range. In conventional Bluetooth mode, the 10-band EQ in the JBL app allows you to adjust the sound to your taste. There’s also an option called Personi-fi that analyses your hearing and adjusts the sound profile for the best results. You can also switch to the Smart TX transmitter, which works with wired audio sources like entertainment systems on planes or in gyms. It transmits wireless audio to the M3 via Bluetooth or broadcasts to multiple sets of nearby headphones using Auracast. The transmitter has a small touch-sensitive LCD screen for adjusting volume, noise-cancellation, and other settings. There are two USB-C ports: one for power and a wired audio connection, and the other for power only. There are also cables for 3.5mm audio and USB-C, and a USB-A adaptor for compatibility with various devices. While headphones with better noise-cancellation may suit frequent fliers and business travellers, the M3 offers good sound quality and impressive battery life at a lower price than high-end rivals like the AirPods Max. Its Smart TX transmitter provides useful connectivity features and support for Auracast, which few rivals can match. The previous M2 model is still widely available, so ensure you buy the correct model when ordering – or look out for deals on the older model. Read our full JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX review 7. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 – Look our for price drops Pros Hi-fi sound quality Luxurious design Bluetooth with AAC, aptX USB-C and 3.5mm wired connections Cons Expensive A little heavy (320g) Price When Reviewed: $699.00 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $499 View Deal $519 View Deal Crutchfield $699 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple surprised a lot of us when it (finally) added USB-C and 3.5mm wired inputs to the Beats Studio Pro. However, hi-fi specialists Bowers & Wilkins have been using USB-C to provide lossless and high-res audio with their PX range of headphones since 2017. These are on the pricy side, but now that B&W has introduced the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 (see above) you will likely see some big price cuts. Even with the high price, the design and sound quality are impeccable. Available in black or tan, the padded headband and earpieces feel absolutely luxurious (although the leather covering might not suit everyone). The adjustable cast-aluminum armatures look very smart and are sturdy enough to cope with life on the road when you’re traveling, and there’s a hard-shell carrying case included as well. The 40mm drivers support Bluetooth with support for both Apple’s AAC and aptX Adaptive for Android users. As mentioned, there’s a USB-C interface for wired connections and lossless audio, and a 3.5mm adaptor is included for good old-fashioned analog audio as well. The sound quality is as good as you’d expect from a company with B&W’s hi-fi heritage. There’s an icy clarity to the steel guitar on You Can’t Trust Violence by Low, and the band’s harmonies are smooth as silk, even as they repeat the chilling chorus of “no, you can’t trust violence…”. There’s a nice bass sound too, bouncing along with a firm, infectious rhythm on Bad Guy by Billie Eilish, and contrasting well with the sharp, precise finger snaps that set the pace and drive the track forward. The noise-cancellation features work very well too, and with 30 hours of battery life when using Bluetooth and noise-cancellation the Px8 is a great option for frequent fliers or commuting on a train. The luxurious design and sound quality of the Px8 are worth every penny. –Cliff Joseph Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Px8 review 8. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless – Good value Pros Competitive price Impressive battery life Supports AAC, aptX Adaptive Good carrying case and accessories Cons 2.5mm line-in connector Some users may require a USB-C adaptor Price When Reviewed: $379.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $249.95 View Deal $249.95 View Deal $249.95 View Deal $249.95 View Deal $249.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The first set of headphones that I ever bought in my student days was made by Sennheiser, but the company isn’t trading on nostalgia with its Momentum 4 Wireless, which provides excellent sound quality and features at a competitive price. This fourth-generation Momentum is a bit more compact and streamlined than its predecessors, with the weight now reduced to just 293g in order to ensure that it’s light and comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Even so, Sennheiser has still managed to squeeze an impressive range of features into the headphones, starting with 42mm drivers that are larger than those used by most of its rivals. These also provide an impressive frequency response of 6Hz – 22KHz, which again beats most rival headphones in this price range. Unsurprisingly, the Momentum 4 provides excellent sound quality. It digs deep and delivers a taut, menacing bass pulse on You Should See Me In A Crown by Billie Eilish. The higher frequencies work well too, capturing Billie’s whispered vocals with great clarity, and picking out the edgy ticking of percussion that gives the song its manic energy. The digital features are right up to date as well, with Bluetooth 5.2, and support for both AAC for Apple devices and aptX Adaptive for Android. The USB-C port on the right earpiece can be used for charging, but also supports USB audio for wired connections, and there’s a 2.5mm analog line-in connector too (with cable provided). However, the USB cable provided by Sennheiser is USB-A-to-USB-C, so you’ll need to provide your own USB-C adaptor for Macs and iPads that only have USB-C. The noise-cancellation features work very well, and Sennheiser’s Smart Control app lets you adjust the level of noise-cancellation manually, by using a slider control, or you can just select the ‘adaptive’ option which allows the Momentum to monitor background noise and adjust the noise-cancellation automatically. But, even with all those features, the really outstanding feature of the Momentum 4 Wireless is its battery life – lasting for around 60 hours even when using Bluetooth and noise-cancellation together. There’s a good set of accessories too, with a hard-shell carrying case and airline adaptor provided for when you’re traveling. And, with a competitive price, the Momentum 4 Wireless even manages to undercut the price of the new Beats Studio Pro as well.-Cliff Joseph 9. Beats Solo 4 – Apple features at a lower price Pros Excellent Apple & Android support Great battery life USB-C and 3.5mm audio support Cons No ANC Design is dated No on-ear detection Price When Reviewed: $199.99 Best Prices Today: New Refurbished Retailer Price $99.99 View Deal $129.95 View Deal $149.95 View Deal $149.95 View Deal $149.99 View Deal $199.95 View Deal $199.99 View Deal $199.99 View Deal Beats $199.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Beats Solo 4 Noise cancelling Gaming Headphone Bluetooth with microphone – Pink $132 View Deal Beats Solo 4 Noise cancelling Gaming Headphone Bluetooth with microphone – Blues $139 View Deal Price comparison from Backmarket When these arrived it had been seven years since Apple-subsidiary Beats had last updated its affordable on-ear Solo headphones. As you would expect, a lot has changed. The Apple W1 chip has been replaced with a proprietary technology platform that supports features in both Apple and Android devices. Apple users get personalized spatial audio with head tracking and hands-free “Hey Siri” support in addition to all the older stuff (one-touch pairing, iCloud pairing, and Find My support). For non-Apple users there’s support for Google Fast Pair, cloud pairing with your Google account, Find My Device and multi-point pairing for seamless audio switching. Sound quality is improved compared to the previous generation, as it should be. There is support for USB-C audio output and input, and it is possible to charge and play USB-C audio at the same time. Over USB-C or 3.5mm you can listen to lossless audio (unfortunately the sound reproduction of these headphones is not good enough to notice). Sound is going to be limited by the fact that these are on-ear headphones, lacking the larger diaphragms of over-the-ear models or the tight in-ear fit of earbuds. There’s a power button on the bottom of the right earpiece. You need to use this because there is no on-ear detection to automate things. The left earpiece has a big button for play/pause/forward/reverse and to trigger the voice assistant. Pressing above or below that button changes the volume. Beats claims 50 hours of battery life, likely a result of the lack of active noise cancellation, which is probably the biggest strain on battery life. The lack of ANC, which is expected on all but the cheapest earbuds and headphones, could be seen as a disadvantage. The earpads are soft, but the spring tension makes the pressure a little uncomfortable after long listening periods when I wear my glasses. This is a common problem with on-ear headphones and a reason why over-the-ear cans may be more comfortable. The new models replace the old micro-USB plug with USB-C. – Jason Cross Read our full Beats Solo 4 review 10. Apple AirPods Max – Impressive but in need of an update Price When Reviewed: $549 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $498.99 View Deal $499.99 View Deal $539 View Deal $549 View Deal $549 View Deal $549.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The AirPods Max had a minor update in September 2024 when Apple added USB-C and refreshed the colors on offer. You can now get the AirPods Max in blue, purple, Midnight, Starlight or orange. The price didn’t change. The AirPods Max are quite comfortable, despite their heavy weight of 384 grams. They look good, thanks to their smooth matte finish on the aluminum closed-back earpieces, the stainless steel rods in the band, the fine mesh of the ear pads and canopy headband. The headband and soft, deep, breathable ear pads are comfortable enough to wear that the weight isn’t too much of a bother (although if you run with them on you’ll feel the bulk). The controls are simple, intuitive, and unobtrusive. There’s a digital crown like that on the Apple Watch along and a single button on top of the right earpiece. The crown controls volume and playback (skip forwards and backward, press and hold for Siri, etc). The button toggles between noise-canceling and transparency mode and turns noise-canceling on. Audio reproduction matches other high-end premium wireless Bluetooth headphones. Apple has tuned the AirPods Max to boost bass and mid-high frequencies a bit, which most listeners will probably find quite pleasing. The bass has kick when it’s called for, and it’s clean with no distortion. The active noise canceling excels at clearing away irregular sounds like traffic, general office disturbances, or background talking. Apple’s transparency mode, which allows you to have a conversation while still listening to the music, sounds clear, natural, and normal. Since the September 2024 update, the AirPods Max charge with USB-C, but prior to that used the Lightning connector. There is no 3.5mm headphone jack. To listen to lossless audio, or if you’re editing video and want to eliminate the latency of Bluetooth, you can at least now plug them in via USB-C. If you have an older iPhone then you may still be able to buy the older Lightning-equipped version. We aren’t keen on the Smart Case that the AirPods Max ship with. It’s a case that hardly covers the headphones and doesn’t do anything to protect them. The case does evoke a low-power mode to save battery, but that’s about it. Apple promises a battery life of 20 hours of listening time with noise canceling enabled, which isn’t quite as good as the competition. Charging is fast: just 15 minutes on a basic 5-watt power adapter took us from 20 to 44 percent But, the biggest problem is the price. At $549/£499 it’s difficult to recommend AirPods Max when the competition costs $200/£200 less. At least the price has come down in the U.K. in recent years. You do get what you pay for though: build quality is unmatched and there are some clever design flourishes. But there are all the compromises we’ve mentioned above. The main reason to get AirPods over other headphones is their seamless integration with your Apple ecosystem. They pair just by holding them near your iPhone, switch easily to your Mac or iPad, and you can change settings and get firmware updates within Settings instead of requiring a separate app. One of the coolest features of the AirPods Max (and AirPods Pro) is Spatial Audio, whereby Dolby surround is massaged into a sort of faux-3D sound stage. Initially only available on the iPhone and iPad, Spacial Audio now works on Apple TV and (Apple silicon) Macs too. See Best AirPods deals.–Jason Cross 11. Yamaha YH-E700B Pros Strong sound quality Bluetooth with AAC and aptX Adaptive 3.5mm audio connector Good app for customizing sound Cons No USB audio A little heavy (335g) Price When Reviewed: $350 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $99.99 View Deal $349.95 View Deal Yamaha $350 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Yamaha has decades of experience producing musical instruments and audio equipment for professional musicians, and it brings that audio expertise to its YH-E700B headphone. Yamaha gets all the basics right, with large 40mm drivers that are designed to reduce distortion and provide an impressive 8Hz – 20KHz frequency response. The YH-E700B uses Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless audio, with support for both AAC for Apple devices and the latest aptX Adaptive for our Android-toting friends. There’s also a 3.5mm connector to provide a wired connection, although it’s disappointing that the USB-C connector on the headphone is only used for charging, and doesn’t provide USB audio input too. And, since the YH-E700B is an update for Yamaha’s older YH-E700A headphone, it also provides improved noise-cancellation features – which are very effective – and an ambient mode that lets you listen out for background sounds when you need to (but watch out, as the original YH-E700A is still on sale online, so make sure you buy the correct model). The internal mics used for noise-cancellation also work with Yamaha’s Listening Optimiser technology to scan the inside of your ear canal to create a personalized sound ‘profile’. And, if you want to fine-tune the sound even further, then Yamaha’s Headphone app includes a five-band equalizer with a variety of presets and the ability to create two custom presets as well. That set of features ensures that the YH-E700B provides excellent sound quality. The headphone’s 8Hz low-end digs really deep for the slinky bass guitar riff on Leonard Cohen’s You Want It Darker, and Cohen’s own voice has a terrifically deep and world-weary tone. But the YH-E700B handles higher frequencies well too, with a crisp, sharp stab on the percussion that sets the pace, and a smooth velvet tone on the choir that joins in on the chorus. And, with an impressive battery life of 30 hours when using noise-cancellation – or 32 hours if you switch it off – you can enjoy that high-quality music even on the longest journeys.-Cliff Joseph 12. Logitech Zone Vibe Pros Affordable Bluetooth headset Adjustable boom mic with mute Supports AAC for Apple devices Cons No noise-cancellation for music No spatial audio No wired inputs Price When Reviewed: $109.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $79.99 View Deal $79.99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal Lenovo $99.99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Most headphones just focus on the music side of things, with features such as spatial audio or noise-cancellation to enhance the listening experience, but Logitech takes a different approach with its Zone Vibe range of headphones. It’s more affordable than many of its rivals and focuses mainly on office use, for people who may work in call centers or customer support, or perhaps need a headset for video calls when working from home. There are currently two versions of the Zone Vibe available from Logitech, with the Vibe 100 being a basic Bluetooth headset. There’s also the Vibe 125, which uses the same headset but also includes a USB wireless adaptor for use in busy offices that may have a lot of Bluetooth devices that could potentially cause interference and affect call quality (there’s a third model as well, although this is designed for large corporate users and is only available from specialist business suppliers). The headset weighs just 185g, which is very light for a large over-ear headset such as this, as it’s designed for people who may have to wear it all day long while they’re at work. It also has a boom mic for voice calls, which can be folded up out of the way in order to quickly mute the mic as well. There are no fancy audio features – there’s a noise-canceling filter on the microphone to keep your voice clear for calls, but the earpieces don’t provide active noise-cancellation (ANC) for listening to music. However, the headset supports Apple’s AAC codec for Bluetooth audio and provides good sound quality for both calls and music. It delivers a clear, detailed sound for the dense production on Kate Bush’s The Big Sky, and manages to balance the song’s huge avalanche of drums and percussion very well, without overlooking more delicate details such as the gentle tambourine that shimmers away in the background. Battery life is good too, with 20 hours of listening time, or 18 hours of talk time for voice calls. And, paying good attention to detail, Logitech’s Tune app is available for Macs and Windows, as well as Android and iOS mobile devices, so you can easily get the Zone Vibe set up when you’re preparing to take voice or video calls at work.-Cliff Joseph How Macworld reviews headphones When our audio experts review headphones our comprehensive evaluation covers sound quality, design and comfort, key features like noise cancellation, and overall value for money. We undertake subjective listening tests and an objective analysis of features and build quality. The most critical aspect of our headphone reviews is an assessment of audio performance including Tonal Balance, Clarity and Detail, Audio Defects and Spatial Audio. Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Modes are also assessed, both being primary features users look for. We test how effectively the headphones block out different types of ambient sound, such as the low-frequency drone of an airplane engine versus higher-frequency chatter. We also assess how well transparency mode amplify outside sounds when you need to be aware of your surroundings. Design, comfort and build quality are also important factors, as is the ease of use when it comes to the controls and functionality. Battery life is another important consideration, and the time it takes to charge the headphones. Finally, we review the available connection options and the codecs supported since AAC support is required for Apple devices. Buying advice: What to look for when buying headphones For the most part, the main differences between models relate to comfort and sound quality, but not all full-sized headphones are equal and there are some other features that may interest you. To help you find the perfect set of over-ear headphones, here’s what to look (and listen) for. Style: Full-size headphones fall into two categories: closed and open. Closed models block out some degree of external noise (and also keep your music from disturbing others), while open models, which some people prefer sonically, let more noise in and out. Note that to reach their potential, many full-size models (open or closed) require more juice than others. Noise-Canceling: If you’re not a fan of in-ear-canal ‘phones, but you want something that can filter out external noise such as airplane engines, train rumblings, or the hum of a crowd or noisy office, consider investing in a good set of noise-canceling headphones. These headphones sample outside sound and then pipe in an inverse audio signal to “cancel out” a good deal of monotonous noise. (For more on the technology and its limitations, see my review of noise-canceling models from a while back.) Although they don’t usually sound as good as comparably priced in-ear-canal headphones, noise-canceling models are easier to put on and take off, and they let you hear what’s going on around you. Noise-canceling headphones are available in canalbud, lightweight, and full-size models, but full-size models tend to provide the best noise isolation and audio quality. Wireless/Bluetooth: If you think being tethered to your Mac, iPhone, iPad, or iPod is a drag—or, for the gym rats, an equipment-snagging hazard—consider going wireless. You can stream audio to stereo Bluetooth headphones from Macs; iPad; and iPhones. Most Bluetooth headphones also double as headsets, letting you seamlessly switch between music and voice features. Apple has always focused purely on Bluetooth for wireless audio, ignoring the fact that you really need a wired connection to play the high-quality lossless and high-res audio formats that are now available on Apple Music and other streaming services. That is a weakness with the expensive AirPods Max, which rely on Bluetooth alone, and can’t even play the best audio formats provided by Apple’s own streaming service. There are a lot of low-cost over-ear headphones that only use Bluetooth to provide wireless audio, but the best over-ear models also tend to provide one or more wired connections via a USB-C interface or a 3.5mm audio connector (or both). Auracast: Apple’s also lagging behind some of its rivals with support for new Bluetooth features, such as the Auracast broadcasting technology. Auracast allows one device or audio source to transmit Bluetooth audio to multiple sets of headphones, as well as Auracast-compatible hearing aids and cochlear implants. That broadcasting ability makes Auracast great for public announcement and entertainment systems, as well as being a useful accessibility feature for people with hearing problems. At an event promoting its accessibility technologies, Apple staff reportedly said that it is “excited” by the potential of Auracast, although the company has not given any indication of when it will add Auracast to its own products. Specs and sound quality: As I noted in our speakers buying guide, you should generally ignore manufacturers’ specifications—especially frequency-response numbers. There’s no standard testing methodology for headphone frequency response, and many vendors exaggerate their specs for marketing reasons. Even if specs were accurate, they wouldn’t tell you much about how a particular set of headphones actually sounds. Instead of reading specs, use your ears. (If you can’t audition a product in person, read reviews from a source you trust.) As with speakers, a quality set of headphones reproduces audio with good balance between the treble (upper), midrange, and bass (lower) frequencies, producing full, rich sound while preserving detail. However, because of their especially small drivers (speakers), headphones present a unique challenge when it comes to bass response: Unlike huge speaker woofers that you can not only hear, but feel, the drivers in most headphones can’t reproduce the visceral impact of low bass—you may be able to hear the lowest frequencies, but you probably won’t be able to feel them. We point out this bass issue because some vendors address it by emphasizing certain bass and upper-bass frequencies to give their headphones more “kick.” This helps the headphones stand out from other headphones in the store, and some people—especially those who use their headphones when exercising or for beat matching—really want that visceral impact. But such headphones often become fatiguing to listen to over time. If you’re interested in accurate audio reproduction, be careful not to be wowed by emphasized bass. (The same goes for exaggerated treble detail.) The best approach is to audition a set of headphones for several hours—or, even better, several days—with a variety of music. If the headphones still sound great at the end, there’s a good chance they’ll satisfy you over the long run. Headset functionality and inline control modules: Many current headphone models include, right on the cable, an inline module with a microphone and one or more remote-control buttons. At the minimum, the remote features a single multi-function button for controlling media playback; making, taking, and ending phone calls; and taking advantage of iOS’s Siri and Voice Control features. You may also find dedicated volume-up and -down buttons, as well. The module’s microphone can be used to talk on the phone, make voice recordings, and give Siri and Voice Control commands. Fit/comfort: Unlike most consumer-electronics devices, you actually wear headphones. So how well a set of over-ear headphones fits your head plays a significant role in your long-term satisfaction (or lack thereof). We include a few comfort-related tips below when describing the different headphones, but reading about a particular style is no substitute for actually giving a product a test drive (or a test run, as the case may be).08:12 pmApple releases new firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Pro 3
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Spotify is rolling out today a beta feature on its iOS app that summarizes audiobooks up to the point where the user left off, helping them jump back in with the right context. Here’s how it works. more…07:40 pmPrivacy advocates are terrified by the dark potential of Apple Digital ID
Apple’s Digital ID can be convenient for travelers, and also a privacy nightmare that someday allows governments to track citizens. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)07:35 pmApple Releases New Firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Pro 3
Apple today released new firmware designed for the AirPods Pro 3 and the prior-generation AirPods Pro 2. The AirPods Pro 3 firmware is 8B25, while the AirPods Pro 2 firmware is 8B21, both up from the prior 8A358 firmware released in October. There's no word on what's include in the updated firmware, but the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Pro 3 are both set to get expanded support for Live Translation in the European Union in iOS 26.2, which is being beta tested. The firmware could be related to that upcoming functionality, or it could add bug fixes and performance improvements. To install the new firmware, make sure your AirPods are in range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. From there, put your AirPods in the Charging Case and connect the Charging Case to power. Keep the case closed and wait at least 30 minutes for the firmware update to install.Related Roundup: AirPods Pro 3Buyer's Guide: AirPods Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: AirPodsThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums07:32 pmApple just released new AirPods Pro 3 firmware and more
AirPods users, Apple has just released brand new firmware for multiple models including AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2. Here are the details. more…07:31 pm9to5Mac Daily: November 13, 2025 – New macOS Edge Light features and more
Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players. Sponsored by Backblaze: Never lose a file again. Use code “9to5daily” at checkout for 20% off or try for free. more…07:29 pmHow have AI workflows affected the work/life balance at your workplace?
Many would argue one of the goals of AI is still give workers some time back. I've also heard some people say there's been a spike in burnout in their workplace as a result of employees overworking to keep up with the rapid changes in AI workflows. I'm curious what others have experienced as far […]07:19 pmiPhone Pocket, iOS 26.2 beta 2, and the iPhone Air’s future
Benjamin and Chance discuss all the new features in the 26.2 betas, including a clever new Edge Light mode and even more Liquid Glass throughout the system. Apple launches Digital IDs in Wallet, and there are questions about the future of the iPhone Air. And in Happy Hour Plus, we consider if Apple is done for the year, as far as new product launches go. Subscribe at 9to5mac.com/join. Sponsored by Shopify: Grow your business no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/happyhour. Sponsored by 1Password: For a limited time, get $20 off the easiest way to stay secure online with 1Password. Sponsored by Quince: For the person in your life who deserves better than basic—Quince has you covered. For free shipping and 365-day returns, go to quince.com/happyhour. more…07:19 pmQuestion about 5.1.2 (i) in app review guideline which got updated today. | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingQuestion about 5.1.2 (i) in app review guideline which got updated today.
In the new review guideline it states in 5.1.2 (i): "Unless otherwise permitted by law, you may not use, transmit, or share someone’s personal data without first obtaining their permission. You must provide access to information about how and where the data will be used. You must clearly disclose where personal data will be shared […]07:13 pmApple TV to Include MLS Games at No Extra Cost Starting in 2026
Apple plans to incorporate Major League Soccer (MLS) content into its Apple TV streaming service starting in 2026, reports The Hollywood Reporter. MLS will no longer be a separate subscription, and games will instead be available as part of the base Apple TV service. As of now, MLS games are accessible through the MLS Season Pass, which is priced at $14.99 per month or $99 for the season. The MLS Season Pass will be eliminated for the 2026 season, and soccer fans will have access to games through the standard $12.99 per month Apple TV subscription. The MLS board of governors will need to approve the new deal between Apple and the MLS, but the aim is to expand the MLS fanbase and make MLS content easier to access. Apple's services chief Eddy Cue said that Apple is "thrilled to bring MLS to more fans around the world" next season. Apple recently established a deal for Formula 1 rights in the United States, and F1 races will also be available to all Apple TV subscribers as Apple works to increase its live sports content.Tag: MLS Season PassThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums07:03 pmApple may ditch MLS Season Pass, make games free to Apple TV subscribers
Major League Soccer fans will reportedly not need an Apple MLS Season pass to watch in 2026, which would allow an Apple TV subscriber to enjoy games without paying extra.MLS on Apple TVAccording to a report on Thursday by ESPN, Apple TV viewers will be able to watch regular-season matches, Leagues Cup games, the MLS All-Star Game, the Campeones Cup and MLS Cup Playoffs for no additional charge. The Disney-owned troubled sports broadcasting network cites unnamed sources.As of November 13, 2025, soccer fans must pay for an MLS Season Pass subscription, whether or not they already pay for Apple TV. The subscription costs $14.99 per month. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums07:03 pmReport: MLS games to stream on Apple TV next season without additional add-on subscription | 9 to 5 MacReport: MLS games to stream on Apple TV next season without additional add-on subscription
The base Apple TV service will be getting more live sports as standard from year, according to The Athletic. MLS Season Pass, currently a $79 per year additional charge for Apple TV members, will reportedly go away as a paid add-on and be rolled into the base Apple TV subscription, starting next season. That increases value for the Apple TV subscription (currently $12.99 per month in the US, or part of Apple One) and should help boost viewership for Major League Soccer. more…06:54 pmMajor League Soccer will be available to all Apple TV subscribers at no extra charge beginning in 2026 | Mac Daily NewsMajor League Soccer will be available to all Apple TV subscribers at no extra charge beginning in 2026
MLS and Apple have agreed to overhaul their partnership starting in 2026. The standalone MLS Season Pass subscription will end… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.06:49 pmIf you use AI to code, this might help
TL/DR: , ContextSwift is for those who use AI to code and want MCPs, subagents, etc, specifically for AI. check it out if you like it, love to see some feedback ty submitted by /u/gicnc [link] [comments]06:39 pmTesla reportedly working to finally add wireless CarPlay to its vehicles
Macworld A new report from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg makes a claim that might be the hardest to believe yet: Tesla is working to add wireless CarPlay to its vehicles. Tesla was one of the first major carmakers to specifically shun CarPlay, building its own ground-up infotainment software that incorporates maps, navigation, streaming music, and more. Controlling the full in-car experience from top to bottom has long been a point of pride for the brand, and others (such as EV startup Rivian) soon followed suit. In recent years, massive automaker GM made the decision to drop CarPlay from all new vehicles in favor of its own in-house infotainment system. The phase-out is expected to be complete within a few years. So it’s certainly strange that Tesla is discussing a rollout of CarPlay support “in the coming months,” although Gurman notes that plans are not final and the timeline could come later, or not at all, as Tesla has historically changed course on software features even after months or years of development. Musk has been a big critic of Apple, publicly complaining about the company’s control over app distribution and the ranking of his company’s apps on the App Store. In other ways, the company has been supportive, having recently added Apple Music and Podcasts to its own infotainment software and often supporting the latest iOS features in its Tesla app. Bloomberg says the move is an effort to boost Tesla vehicle sales, which implies that its salespeople are being at least asked about CarPlay support on a regular basis. The CarPlay interface would appear as a window in the main Tesla interface, Gurman reports, with critical car controls and information still displayed alongside it. This is not unlike how CarPlay works in some other vehicles—a Ford Mustang Mach-E retains its own interface down by the “knob” and shows the CarPlay interface above it, for example. The report does not say which Tesla vehicles will get support for the feature, though certainly all Tesla models made in the last decade or so should be fully capable of it. It notes that Tesla will support wireless CarPlay, but not CarPlay Ultra.06:18 pmWoot's Early Black Friday Sale Has Massive Discounts on Apple Watch Bands
Woot this week is back with a big sale on Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop bands for Apple Watch, with as much as 70 percent off these accessories. Additionally, Woot has sweetened this deal and is offering 35 percent off when you buy two or more, 50 percent off three or more, and 65 percent off four or more. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Woot. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. You can get the Solo Loop for just $14.99 ($34 off) and the Braided Solo Loop for $29.99 ($69 off). All bands in this sale are in brand new condition and come with a one-year Apple limited warranty, and they are all compatible with the new Apple Watch Series 11. 70% OFFApple Watch Bands at Woot Shoppers should note that this sale is focused on colors of the Braided Solo Loop and Solo Loop that Apple has stopped selling, and it doesn't include any of the new band colors. That being said, all of the bands in this sale are in new condition. The entire sale is focused on Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop Apple Watch bands, so you'll need to know the size that works best for you before you buy. Apple has a measurement tool on its website that you can use to determine your exact size. Solo Loop Black/White Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00 Blue Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00 Green Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00 Purple Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00 Red/Orange/Yellow Hues - $14.99, down from $49.00 Braided Solo Loop Black/White Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00 Blue Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00 Green Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00 Purple Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00 Red/Orange/Yellow Hues - $29.99, down from $99.00 Pride - $29.99, down from $99.00 You can find all the Apple Black Friday Deals currently available in our dedicated post. For everything else, we're keeping track of all of the season's best Apple-related deals in our Black Friday roundup, so be sure to check back throughout the month for an updated list of all the most notable discounts you'll find for Black Friday 2025. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find as we head into the holidays? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundups: Apple Black Friday, Apple DealsRelated Forum: Community DiscussionThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums05:39 pmThe Baseus 45W PicoGo C1 USB-C Charger Is $14 Off
Amazon has the Baseus PicoGo 45W Charging Block marked $14 off. The charger features an advanced tech design called scientific stacking and graphene cooling for efficient heat dissipation when charging your device, ensuring that your smartphone or tablet does not overheat during use. It is certified for safety and quality, so you can charge your […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:37 pmTesla is working to add Apple CarPlay to its vehicles
Tesla is developing Apple CarPlay support for its vehicles in a bid to boost sales - one of the most frequently requested features… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.05:37 pmNext-Generation iPhone Air Delayed Due to Poor Sales
Sales for the new iPhone Air were quite underwhelming to the point where Apple chose to delay the release of the next iPhone Air, which was set for release with the new iPhone 18 Pro next year. The iPhone Air was released in September this year, and reports of manufacturing cuts and poor sales surrounded […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:36 pmHomePod Mini Marked Discontinued or on Backorder, Hinting At A Revamped Version
All models for the HomePod mini have been discontinued by B&H, an Apple product retailer. Other retailers have listed the HomePod mini on backorder or out of stock, indicating that an updated device may be closing in. One of the retailers that have listed the HomePod mini as backordered is Adorama, while some colors for […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:35 pmJuice Packs For iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max and iPhone Air Released By Mophie
New Juice Pack charging cases made for the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air have been announced by Mophie. Mophie says the iPhone Air Juice Pack increases power by 60 percent more with a battery capacity of 2,400 mAh. It features a slim case design at 15mm to not add bulkiness […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:34 pmThe AirPods 4 is $40 Off
Amazon has the AirPods 4 marked $40 off. The earbuds are powered by the H2 chip to give the user better call and sound quality. It features personalized spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, creating an immersive listening experience when watching movies, playing games, and listening to music. The AirPods 4 are rated IP54 sweat, […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:33 pmApple Fitness+ Under Review
Mark Gurman reports that Apple Fitness+ and the future of the service are under review in the middle of a service reorganization. Gurman reports that it’s one of the weakest virtual services that Apple has to offer, and is apparently suffering from little revenue and a high churn rate. The Fitness+ has a loyal yet […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:32 pmOLED Display May Be Exclusive To M6 Pro and M6 Max MacBook Pro Models
Apple is reportedly developing a MacBook Pro with an OLED Display. The model is anticipated to come late next year or early in 2027. It is possible that the OLED Display may not be equipped in all models. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg wrote in his newsletter that the MacBook Pro with an upgraded OLED display […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:31 pmIndie devs: How many of you did pre-orders for your app and was it worth it? | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingIndie devs: How many of you did pre-orders for your app and was it worth it?
My new app is ready to go live. But I’ve heard pre orders are a great tool to use to boost day 1 go live downloads and store ranking. I’m considering just skipping pre-orders and going with my launch plan for launch day. It means the app is out a week earlier. Anyone have any […]05:31 pmNew Satellite Features In Development for the iPhone
Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reports in his newsletter, Power On, that new features for satellite connectivity for iPhones are in development. Apple is planning to add the following: Photos via satellite in Messages, where iPhones receive support for sending images in the Messages app with the use of satellite connectivity Natural Usage, where you get […] The post appeared first on iLounge.05:25 pmApple launches Mini Apps Partner Program for developers
Earlier today, we received word on a new deal Apple had struck with WeChat owner Tencent to earn a 15% commission on revenue from mini apps. Now, thanks to a newly announced Mini Apps Partner Program, it seems Apple will offer similar terms to all developers. more…05:23 pmTesla may be looking to Apple CarPlay to boost flagging sales
After years of refusing to add its most-requested feature, CarPlay, Tesla may finally be caving.Tesla has so far refused to add CarPlay support Credit: AppleBloomberg reports that Tesla is developing support for CarPlay, citing people familiar with the matter. To date, Tesla vehicles have shipped with the company's own software and support for select third-party apps.Despite Tesla's infotainment system being among the better options, drivers have long said that they would like to be able to use their own apps.. Apple CarPlay allows that, while adding more options for navigation and more. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums05:23 pmVolkswagen's myVW App Now Available on Apple Watch
Volkswagen today announced that it is bringing Apple Watch support to the myVW app, allowing Volkswagen owners to access key vehicle functions from their wrists. The myVW ap is available for most MY20+ ICE and electric vehicles that have an applicable connected vehicle service plan. Volkswagen has several paid plan options, like Remote Access, VW Vehicle Insights, and Safe and Secure. Some of the features available through the Apple Watch app include Lock/Unlock, Honk and Flash, Vehicle Status, and Lock Status. For EVs, Remote Charging, Charge Status, and Climate Start/Stop are available. ICE models have access to Remote Start/Stop and Fuel Status. To use the app, vehicle owners will need to download the myWV app, accept the myVW terms of service, add their vehicle to the virtual garage, and subscribe to a paid or included Remote Access or VW Vehicle Insights plan.Tag: VolkswagenThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums05:19 pmTesla finally plans to add CarPlay to its EVs
After years of avoidance, Tesla plans to add CarPlay to its electric vehicles to boost sales. That's a big win for Apple. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)05:16 pmnothing says “protecting the little guy” like making them vulnerable to stalkers | Reddit on iOS Programmingnothing says “protecting the little guy” like making them vulnerable to stalkers
EU Digital Markets Act: Because nothing says "protecting the little guy" like making them vulnerable to stalkers. https://preview.redd.it/mezu9qp8521g1.jpg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=44ca42bff3e196ed3d147cc16d148fd9a004c48b submitted by /u/Jezekilj [link] [comments]05:15 pmNothing says “protecting the little guy” like making them vulnerable to stalkers. | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingNothing says “protecting the little guy” like making them vulnerable to stalkers.
EU Digital Markets Act: Because nothing says "protecting the little guy" like making them vulnerable to stalkers. https://preview.redd.it/2a3npwjz421g1.jpg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=12f2a65077f010a0cc18505b1cadc2c9f3dabc23 submitted by /u/Jezekilj [link] [comments]05:06 pmThe Absurdity ?
The Absurdity: EU: "We're protecting privacy!" Also EU: "Publish your home address publicly or you can't sell apps here!" https://preview.redd.it/25my264q321g1.jpg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=253fc76c92bece230b8aca53dd01b335aabfbaff submitted by /u/Jezekilj [link] [comments]05:00 pmSatechi OntheGo 7 in 1 Adapter delivers portable HDMI, SD, Ethernet, and power
Satechi's latest OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter is a compact USB-C hub for iPhone, iPad, and Mac that blends port expansion with MagSafe convenience.Satechi releases a new adapter for Apple devicesOn Thursday, Satechi expanded its OntheGo lineup with a new 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter. The device is small enough to fit in your palm yet offers the functionality of a desktop dock.The new device is about the size of a hockey puck and the company says that it's lighter than a deck of cards. The adapter is perfect for remote professionals, creators, and students who need to stay connected while traveling. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums05:00 pmThis MagSafe accessory adds 7 ports to your iPhone
Earlier this year, Satechi introduced its OntheGo collection. As the name implies, it was a collection of travel-focused accessories designed to simplify your tech life on the go. They release charging bricks, 3 1 folding chargers, trackers, and a few other goodies. Now they are expanding that collection with the introduction of the 7 in 1 MagSafe Multiport adapter. As someone who uses their iPhone for everything from video to gaming to communicating to podcasting, this new accessory has been a great addition to the travel pack. Here is what you need to know. more…04:54 pmApple launches new Mini App Partner Program
Following Apple's moves to get much more cash from apps embedded in China's WeChat, the company has issued a Mini Apps program for the App Store worldwide.Mini Apps within WeChat can now get Apple to handle their payment processing, for a feeA Mini App is a game or any other small app that isn't sold on its own, but instead is accessed via a so-called super-app. In theory this could be any super-app, and Elon Musk wants to turn Twitter into one, but in practice it means China's WeChat.Up to now, Apple has not been able to charge Mini App developers anything because they aren't on the App Store, they are like a feature within WeChat's enormous ecosystem. Now, though, Apple has negotiated with WeChat owner Tencent to take a 15% fee, while it handles payment processing. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums04:45 pmDeals: M4 MacBook Air $250 off, entry M5 MacBook Pro all-time low, Apple Watch SE 3 $200/Ultra 3 $99 off, more | 9 to 5 MacDeals: M4 MacBook Air $250 off, entry M5 MacBook Pro all-time low, Apple Watch SE 3 $200/Ultra 3 $99 off, more
Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is loaded with some big-time Apple price drops. Firstly, the all-time lows at $250 off across the M4 MacBook Air lineup have now returned, and we are now tracking a new Amazon all-time low on the most affordable M5 MacBook Pro at nearly $120 off. Those offers also join the best prices to date on Apple Watch Ultra 3 Alpine and Trail configs as well as all-time low pricing on the most affordable new Midnight Apple Watch SE 3 at $200. All of that is detailed for you below alongside this $300 price drop Apple’s Space Black 1TB M4 iPad Pro cell model. more…04:31 pmTesla Working to Add Apple CarPlay Support to Vehicles
Tesla is working to add support for Apple CarPlay in its vehicles, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports. Tesla vehicles rely on its own infotainment software system, which integrates vehicle functions, navigation, music, web browsing, and more. The automaker has been an outlier in foregoing support for Apple CarPlay, which has otherwise become an industry standard feature, allowing users to mirror their iPhone apps to their in-car infotainment screen. Now, Tesla seems to have abruptly reversed course and apparently intends to add support for the highly requested feature. Apple CarPlay for Tesla vehicles is said to now be in testing, according to several individuals familiar with the matter. The company has purportedly discussed a roll out of feature "in the coming months," but release plans are not yet finalized and it could come at a later date. Tesla's adoption of CarPlay will involve the feature operating "within a window inside its broader interface," rather than being a full-screen experience like it is in most vehicles. Tesla's implementation will also be the standard version of wireless CarPlay, rather than the next-generation CarPlay Ultra that started rolling out earlier this year. Tesla apparently hopes that adding support for Apple CarPlay will help boost sales, with some prospective buyers citing the lack of CarPlay support as a reason for not choosing the company's cars.Tags: Tesla, Wireless CarPlayThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums04:28 pmTesla could launch CarPlay support ‘in the coming months’, per report
Tesla is considering rolling out CarPlay support as soon as the end of this year, according to a new report from Bloomberg. This marks a huge shift in strategy for the biggest EV maker, which has historically built its entire in-car infrastructure from scratch rather than relying on a third-party. more…04:26 pmApple Wallet got two feature upgrades it really needed in iOS 26
Apple Wallet got a bunch of new features in iOS 26, including the just-released Digital ID that, along with AI order tracking, fix key shortcomings in previously launched Wallet features. more…04:23 pmLAX (Los Angeles) on 2025-11-24
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Nov 24, 10:00 - 14:00 UTCNov 13, 15:57 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in LAX (Los Angeles) datacenter on 2025-11-24 between 10:00 and 14:00 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.04:22 pmApple Announces App Store Mini Apps Partner Program
Apple today announced the App Store Mini Apps Partner Program. The program is designed for developers who host mini apps and games within a larger, native app. Today, we're introducing the Mini Apps Partner Program, which expands on the App Store's ongoing support for apps that offer mini apps. Mini apps are self-contained experiences that are built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript. This program is designed to help developers who host mini apps grow their business and further the availability of mini apps on the App Store — all while providing a great customer experience. Participating developers may benefit from a reduced commission rate of 15% on the sales of qualifying In-App Purchases. To be eligible for this reduced commission rate, participating apps must support certain App Store technologies, including the Declared Age Range API and the Advanced Commerce API in order to help provide a safe and seamless experience for customers of all ages. Participating apps are required to support certain App Store technologies, such as the Declared Age Range API and the Advanced Commerce API. To join the Mini Apps Partner Program, developers must submit a request form. Apple also updated its App Review Guidelines today, adding and clarifying a range of requirements, including the provision that "creator apps must provide a way for users to identify content that exceeds the app's age rating, use an age restriction mechanism based on verified or declared age to limit access by underage users." Tag: App StoreThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums04:08 pmMonster from the deep wreaks havoc in Monarch season 2 teaser
Kong and a mystery new kaiju will star when “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters” returns with season 2. Watch the trailer! (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)04:03 pmApple Reaches Deal to Take Billions of Dollars in China's WeChat
Apple has reached a new agreement with Tencent that will allow the company to process payments and collect a 15% commission on purchases made inside WeChat mini games and mini apps on the iPhone, establishing a major new revenue stream in China after over a year of negotiations, according to Bloomberg. Under the arrangement, Apple will begin handling in-app payment processing for qualifying mini apps and mini games distributed inside WeChat, China's dominant all-purpose mobile platform. Developers participating in the system will need to adopt specific Apple software requirements, including a feature that allows parents to share a child's age range. Unlike users in the rest of the world, most Chinese iPhone users do not access services by downloading separate apps from the App Store. Instead, they use WeChat as a single interface for services, utilities, and entertainment. These functions are powered by a vast network of mini apps contained entirely within WeChat. Purchases made through these mini apps have historically not generated App Store commission because many developers direct users to external payment systems. As a result, Apple's new agreement gives the company a foothold in a major segment of Chinese mobile payments from which it previously received no revenue. While the new 15% commission is half of Apple's standard 30% rate for many App Store transactions, Bloomberg estimates that the size of the WeChat ecosystem makes the agreement potentially worth billions of dollars to Apple. The agreement is expected to be disclosed publicly by the companies at a later date. Tags: Bloomberg, China, WeChatThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums04:01 pmApple’s iOS 26.2 adds new CarPlay setting
iOS 26 brings pinned conversations to CarPlay Messages, letting drivers jump straight to their favorite chats. For those who prefer… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.03:53 pmIAD (Ashburn) on 2025-11-24
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Nov 24, 07:00 - 11:00 UTCNov 13, 15:52 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in IAD (Ashburn) datacenter on 2025-11-24 between 07:00 and 11:00 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.03:53 pmATL (Atlanta) on 2025-11-24
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Nov 24, 07:00 - 11:00 UTCNov 13, 15:48 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in ATL (Atlanta) datacenter on 2025-11-24 between 07:00 and 11:00 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.03:49 pmMy app not found in the US App Store
Hi, my app is currently available in most of the countries in Europe but not found (using the search bar) in the US (/us) or even in Germany (/de). Yesterday a new version was approved for distribution. Is there any possibile delay between EU and US? In the App Store Connect all the 175 countries […]03:45 pmToday in Apple history: Apple demands big damages from Samsung
On September 13, 2013, Apple and Samsung headed back to court to determine the amount of damages Samsung would pay for copying the iPhone. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)03:34 pmFire hazard prompts recall of three Belkin power bank and stand models
Belkin has issued a recall of three of its portable power banks and wireless charging stands due to faulty lithium ion batteries. Here's how to see if your unit is impacted, and what to do if you have a recalled model.Belkin issues a recall for some productsBelkin's notice covers roughly 83,500 units in the United States and another 2,385 in Canada. The chargers were sold between August 2020 and August 2025 at major retailers like Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Amazon, and Belkin's own website.Regulators confirmed one fire incident in the United States, along with fifteen cases internationally. Two minor burn injuries occurred outside the country, alongside nearly $38,000 in property damage. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums03:28 pmiPhone Pocket revealed in hands-on videos of new Apple accessory
Apple’s new accessory, the iPhone Pocket, officially goes on sale tomorrow. But some Apple Stores have started featuring the new ISSEY MIYAKE collaborative product already, so user hands-on videos have arrived. Here’s a roundup of first looks. more…03:27 pm2B email addresses and 1.3B passwords compromised in multiple data breaches
Some 2 billion email addresses and 1.3 billion passwords have been compromised in a series of data breaches highlighted by a cybersecurity company. Microsoft regional director Troy Hunt, who runs the site Have I Been Pwned, says the stolen data is more extensive than anything the site has ever processed … more…03:24 pmAdobe's Black Friday deal on Creative Cloud Pro is live, save up to 70%
Adobe's Black Friday deal is live, and you can save up to 70% on Creative Cloud Pro for individuals, teams, students, and teachers.Save up to 70% on Creative Cloud with Adobe Black Friday deals - Image credit: AdobeAdobe's Creative Cloud Pro comprises a comprehensive suite of over 20 tools utilized by professional creatives, including photographers, videographers, and developers.Photographers and artists can utilize Photoshop and Lightroom on Mac in the office or studio — and enjoy iOS and iPadOS support when on the go. Best of all, it's up to 70% off for Black Friday. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums03:20 pmIntroducing the App Store Mini Apps Partner Program
Today, we’re introducing the Mini Apps Partner Program, which expands on the App Store’s ongoing support for apps that offer mini apps. Mini apps are self-contained experiences that are built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript. This program is designed to help developers who host mini apps grow their business and further the availability of mini apps on the App Store — all while providing a great customer experience.Participating developers may benefit from a reduced commission rate of 15% on the sales of qualifying In-App Purchases. To be eligible for this reduced commission rate, participating apps must support certain App Store technologies, including the Declared Age Range API and the Advanced Commerce API in order to help provide a safe and seamless experience for customers of all ages.Learn more about the Mini Apps Partner Program and eligibilityFirehose II – Jobs, Deals, Apps
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