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- 05:26 pmMacBook Air vs Pro compared: Which Apple laptop is best for you in 2025?
Macworld Verdict: The MacBook Air is the more affordable option, suitable for everyday tasks, while the MacBook Pro offers superior performance and features, making it ideal for more demanding users. Apple’s most popular Mac laptop is the MacBook Air, which offers a great combination of features for the typical user, but there is another MacBook to consider is you are looking for the best MacBook – the more powerful MacBook Pro. In this article, we aim to help those who want to buy an Apple laptop, but aren’t sure what the difference between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro is and whether the cheaper Air can be as good as the Pro. We’ll explain the advantages and disadvantages of buying a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, we’ll discuss what makes the MacBook Air so popular, and we’ll talk about which uses each Mac laptop is best suited to. We’ll also look in depth at the various specs and features of the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, so you can see how the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro compare in terms of price, display, design, processor, graphics, storage, RAM, ports, battery life and more. We discuss these elements and the other differences between the MacBook Air and Pro in the article. What is the difference between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro? The MacBook Air and MacBook Pro cater to different user needs, with the Air being a more budget-friendly and portable option for general use, and the Pro designed for users requiring higher performance and advanced features. These differences encompass processing power, thermal management, display quality, and port selection. The MacBook Air is ideal for general-purpose users, students, and those who prioritize portability and affordability, while the MacBook Pro is better suited for demanding users, professionals, and creatives who require superior performance. The MacBook Pro features a superior display compared to the MacBook Air, with differences in pixel density, brightness, and refresh rates. The MacBook Pro, equipped with a fan, can sustain high performance during intensive tasks like video editing or code compilation, whereas the fanless MacBook Air may throttle to maintain temperature during prolonged heavy processing. The MacBook Air models generally offer up to 18 hours battery life, while the 14-inch MacBook Pro models extend this to 24 hours. MacBook Pro models also offer more extensive port selections, including HDMI and SDXC card slots, in addition to Thunderbolt ports, while MacBook Air models only offer Thunderbolt/USB4 ports and a MagSafe charging port. MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro Compared: Which MacBook is best? The question of which MacBook is best depends on what you need. The ultimate and most powerful MacBook is the M4 Max powered MacBook Pro, but that will be overpowered and prohibitively expensive to most people. The best value MacBook is the MacBook Air, and it’s not surprising that it is the most popular Mac, but there are reasons to consider the entry-level MacBook Pro, which has a slightly higher price, but is better suited to demanding users than the Air. Right now, while we wait for Apple to update the MacBook Air with an M5 chip, we are recommending the M5 MacBook Pro as the best MacBook for most because it offers such a tremendous combination of price, performance, and features. However, if you need something with a bit more oomph then the M4 Pro or M4 Max MacBook Pro will be a better option. Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro, M5 – Best MacBook for most people Pros All MacBook Pro models have superior display Excellent battery life Cons Price appears very high compared to Air Price When Reviewed: $1,599 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1,479 View Deal $1540.15 View Deal $1549 View Deal $1599 View Deal $1599 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Who is the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 for? The MacBook Pro covers some wide ground in terms of what’s offered and hence will meet the needs of many very different users. At the entry-level is the M5 MacBook Pro, which is more comparable to the MacBook Air than the powerful M4 Pro or M4 Max MacBook Pro that slot in further up the range. The M5 MacBook Pro is the Mac to choose if you need a little more oomph than the MacBook Air can give, but don’t have the money for a MacBook Pro with M4 Pro chip. The other major reasons to choose the M5 MacBook Pro over the Air are it’s significantly better screen, better battery life, and additional ports. If you need more power and have the budget, the M4 Pro or M4 Max models are the ones to choose, and we’ll discuss them in more detail later. What you need to know about the MacBook Pro with M5 The M5 MacBook Pro was introduced in October 2025 and offers the newest Apple processor with an updated GPU that is better equipped for AI than the M4 in its predecessor (and the MacBook Air). Prior to the M5 update, this MacBook Pro shared the same M4 processor as the MacBook Air that arrived in March 2025 and the machines had similar specs. However, while those specs looked similar on paper the two laptops were not identical, and now that the M5 has arrived the differences are even more pronounced. The most obvious indication that the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are different beasts is the price: The 14-inch MacBook Pro starts at $1,599/£1,599. That’s $400/£400 more than the entry-level MacBook Air. But it would be incorrect to compare the $1,599 MacBook Pro with the $999 MacBook Air, which has half the storage and fewer processor cores. A better comparison is between the MacBook Pro M5 with 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB memory, and a 512GB SSD, and the 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB SSD for $1,199/£1,199. So in reality we are really talking about spending $400 more to get the 14-inch MacBook Pro. Add on a bigger screen with the 15-inch MacBook Air and the difference is even smaller: the 512GB 15-inch MacBook Air is $1,399. The price gap isn’t as big as you might think. The M5 is a very good reason to spend that extra money. But it’s not all you get. You get a Mac with a better display, better heat management, better battery life, better audio and more ports. All of those features may be well worth the extra expense when compared to the MacBook Air. We’ll discuss these differences in a lot more detail later in this article. There is also a lot more choice when it comes to the components of the MacBook Pro. The M5 models can support up to 32GB RAM, like the MacBook Air, but only the M5 can support 4TB storage, the Air is limited to 2TB. To get the best deal on a MacBook Pro read our round up of the Best MacBook Pro deals. Read our full Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 2025) review Apple 13-inch MacBook Air – Best value MacBook Pros Low price Cons Slower than MacBook Pro Inferior display to MacBook Pro Price When Reviewed: $999 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $749.99 View Deal $890.11 View Deal $899 View Deal $999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Who is the 13-inch MacBook Air for? The MacBook Air will more than meet the needs of the majority, with the added bonus that it’s lighter than the MacBook Pro making it ideal for anyone who needs to carry their Mac around, such as students and commuters. This is also the Mac cheapest Mac laptop you can buy, but you may be able to get it for even less than Apple sells it for – take a look at our round up of the Best MacBook Air deals. What you need to know about the MacBook Air, 13-inch The 13-inch M4 MacBook Air was last updated in March 2025. It is the cheapest MacBook Air you can buy, starting at $999/£999. For that you get an M4 chip with 10-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 16GB memory, and a 256GB SSD. Spend $200/£200 more and you can get a slightly better 10-core CPU plus double the storage, at 512GB. That $1,199/£1,199 model is our top choice as you get a better 10-core GPU and double the storage, and you will probably need that extra storage at some point. This model is also comparative to the similarly speced entry-level MacBook Pro, which costs $1,599/£1,599. So you can save $400 for similar spec, although as we explain in the section on the M5 MacBook Pro, there are a number of enhancements you only get with the MacBook Pro, such as a better display, better heat management, better battery life, better audio and more ports. For $1,399/£1,399 you can get more unified memory (Apple’s name for RAM): 24GB instead of 16GB, but you will probably be ok with 16GB RAM. Those are the standard configurations. There are more build-to-order options available that include 32GB unified memory, and 1TB or 2TB SSD. If you need a bigger screen there’s a 15-inch MacBook Air available, discussed elsewhere in this article. It is likely that the MacBook Air will gain an M5 in the spring of 2026 Read: M4 MacBook Air: Everything you need to know for more information. Apple 15-Inch MacBook Air – Cheapest big screen MacBook Pros Large screen at a good price Cons Comparable Air costs only slightly less than more powerful Pro Price When Reviewed: $1,199 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $949.99 View Deal $1097 View Deal $1099 View Deal $1199 View Deal $1199 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Who is the 15-inch MacBook Air for? If you want a bigger display on your laptop and budget doesn’t run to the MacBook Pro, the MacBook Air with 15-inch display will be sufficient. What you need to know about the MacBook Air, 15-inch The specs of the 15-inch MacBook Air may look comparable to the M5 MacBook Pro, but the Air misses out on some important features of the Pro which has a better screen, better battery life, and more ports. If those things don’t matter for you though then save your money and choose the 15-inch MacBook Air. The cheapest 15-inch MacBook Air you can buy starts at $1,199/£1,199. For that you get an M4 chip with 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB memory, and a 256GB SSD. Note that the M5 MacBook Pro offers a 512GB SSD for $1,599/£1,599, the equivalent 15-inch MacBook Air costs $1,399/£1,399, so it’s only a $200 saving to get like-for-like. We think $200 is a fair price to pay for the benefits of the MacBook Pro, but it depends on your budget. Another thing to note is that even though the name of the MacBook Air was always meant to signify that it was a slim and light laptop, when you compare it to the MacBook Pro you might be surprised to learn that the 15-inch Air is only fractionally lighter (3.3 pounds vs 3.4 pounds). It is still thinner though (0.45in vs 0.61in) so it will slide into your bag with more ease. The M4 MacBook Air was introduced in March 2025. We expect that it will be updated to the M5 in spring 2026. Read our full Apple 15-inch MacBook Air (M4, 2025) review Apple 14-Inch MacBook Pro, M4 Pro/Max – Most powerful Mac laptop Pros Large screen at a good price Cons Update to M4 Pro and Max expected in first half of 2026 Price When Reviewed: $1,999 | $2,399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1599 View Deal $1,749.99 View Deal $1779 View Deal $1999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Who is the 14-inch MacBook Pro, M4 Pro & Max for? As we said at the beginning of this article, there are a lot of different MacBooks, especially when you look at the 14-inch MacBook Pro. We’ve discussed the MacBook Pro M5 separately, but the MacBook Pro with M4 Pro or M4 Max are for a completely different user. Mac users who need their Mac laptop to have significant processing power for demanding tasks will want to look at the M4 Pro or M4 Max-powered MacBook Pro. That’s professionals such as high-end video creators, digital artists and illustrators, programmers and designers, anyone needing more oomph than the standard M4 MacBook Pro offers. The M4 Max chip is even more powerful than the M4 Pro, and is for professionals such as media producers and software developers who require significant processing power for multitasking and demanding workloads. This chip provides more GPU cores and supports greater amounts of RAM than the M4 Pro. Once you have decided on the chip you need the next decision is between the 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro. The 14-inch model will suite those who are frequently on the road and value portability, or at anyone who will be mostly working from an external monitor when at their desk. What you need to know about the 14-inch MacBook Pro, M4 Pro & Max? The most obvious difference between the M5 MacBook Pro and the M4 Pro and M4 Max versions is the processor. For clarity, while the M5 is the newest generation Apple chip, it is not better than the M4 Pro. For each generation, the Pro version of the Apple-made silicon supports more CPUs and more GPUs, more memory, and additional ports, like Thunderbolt 5, that aren’t yet supported at the entry-level. It used to be the case that only the Pro and Max versions offered the Pro Motion display, but this is no longer the case. The M4 Pro supports up to 48GB RAM and 20-core GPU, while the M4 Max supports up to 128GB RAM and a 40-core GPU. Only the Max supports a maximum of 8TB storage, compared to 4TB in the Pro. The M4 Pro does benefit from better battery life than the Max though (22 vs 18 hours). Expect the M5 Pro and Max to push even further forward when they launch, probably in spring 2026. Read: MacBook Pro M5 Pro & Max: Where are the Pro MacBooks? The only real disadvantage is that these models come with an exceptionally high price though, starting at $1,999/£1,999 for the M4 Pro and $3,199/£3,199 for the M4 Max. Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro, M4 Pro/Max – Ultimate Mac laptop Pros Excellent battery life Cons Update to M4 Pro and Max expected in first half of 2026 Very high price Price When Reviewed: $2,499 | $2,899 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $2,199 View Deal $2218.09 View Deal $2249 View Deal $2499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Who is the 16-inch MacBook Pro for? The 16-inch MacBook Pro is the ultimate Mac, but it doesn’t offer better specs than the 14-inch MacBook Pro. All it offers is a bigger display and better battery life – both of which may be the most important factor in your decision. It’s an ideal Mac laptop for anyone who is always on the move and away from an external display. If you need a big screened powerful Mac you can use wherever you need to be, get the 16-inch MacBook Pro. Take a look at the Best Mac monitors and displays we have reviewed. What you need to know about the MacBook Pro, 16-inch Like the 14-inch model, the 16-inch MacBook Pro comes with M4 Pro or M4 Max chip, but unlike the 14-inch, there is no standard M4 option here. The entry price is a hefty $2,499/£2,499 for an M4 Pro with 14-core CPU, 20-core GPU, 24GB Unified Memory, and 512GB SSD. If you spec up an equivalent 14-inch model (using the build-to-order options for a 20-core GPU), it comes to $2,199/£2,199, suggesting that the larger screen has a $300 premium attached to it. However, it’s not only the screen size that is different. The bigger laptop allows for a bigger battery, and that means better battery life. The M4 Pro version of the 16-inch MacBook Pro offers 24 hours of battery life and the M4 Max version tops out at 21 hours. This is impressive, but the M5 14-inch MacBook Pro also manages 24 hours. The smaller Pro and Max battery life is 22 for the Pro and 18 for the Max.) The main consideration here being that the Max is more battery guzzling, but that’s a fair price to pay for that extra power. But, what are you getting for the extra money if you choose a 16-inch MacBook Pro over the 14-inch model? Other than the bigger screen and better battery life, there’s not really anything else. Read our full Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (M4 Pro, 2024) review MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro price and value for money Since budget is often the main issue, we’ll start with price and how much you get for your money. With no ‘budget’ MacBook Pro available, the MacBook Air is the only option for those looking for a bargain. If you are looking for the cheapest option the $999/£999 MacBook Air would appear to be the clear winner. However, we recommend spending $200/£200 more to get the 10-core CPU/10-core GPU 512GB MacBook Air, which is worth every extra penny. The price of the MacBook Pro is higher, and on everyday tasks it performs the same as the MacBook Air, but it does offer better performance on long, CPU-intensive tasks, like image and video rendering and similar tasks. Not to mention the better screen, HDMI port, and SDXC Card slot, and more discussed below. At $200/£200 more than the 15-inch MacBook Air with M4 and the same 512GB SSD, it actually represents good value for money. MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Display comparison One of the biggest differences between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro is the quality of the display. There is a lot more to separate the displays than diagonal measurements. 13-inch MacBook Air: 13.6 inches diagonal, 2,560 by 1,664 pixels 14-inch MacBook Pro: 14.2 inches diagonal, 3,024 by 1,964 pixels 15-inch MacBook Air: 15.3 inches diagonal, 2,880 by 1,864 pixels 16-inch MacBook Pro: 16.2-inches diagonal, 3,456 by 2,234 pixels You’ll notice from the above that there are significantly more pixels on the MacBook Pro screens – even when compared to a larger MacBook Air model. The MacBook Air has what Apple calls a Liquid Retina display. The MacBook Pro has a superior Liquid Retina XDR panel. The image quality is significantly better on the MacBook Pro. However, to the average person the screen quality of the MacBook Air will be more than sufficient. It’s not just fewer pixels though. Both Airs have a maximum brightness of 500 nits, which is half of the Pro’s 1,000 nits in normal use, or a third if you’re running HDR content at a max of 1,600 nits of which the MacBook Pro is capable. This is achieved by the Pro display incorporating mini-LEDs rather than the Air’s standard LCD screen. Perhaps the biggest difference though is that the Pro features ProMotion, meaning that the refresh rate tops out at 120Hz, again double that of the Air’s 60Hz refresh rate. This helps keep scrolling and animations smooth and crisp. Any of these displays will be great for everyday use and long hours of work, but the Pro has the edge when it comes to features. And there is more. With the M4 MacBook Pro, Apple introduced a nano-texture glass option that has a matte-like finish for $150. This option is not available on the MacBook Air, and if you need to cut down the glare from the display, it’s a feature to consider. All of this is moot if you will plug your Mac into a display, of course, in which case you can buy a display that offers you the screen quality you need. 15-inch MacBook Air (left) and 14-inch MacBook Pro.Foundry MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Performance Difference There’s a reason why there is a “Pro” in the name. The MacBook Pro is better suited to pro users, by which we mean creative professionals, graphic designers, photographers, film makers, 3D animators, programmers, and so on. A MacBook Air would be more than sufficient for home users, students, and office workers, but as soon as you start to push it with something more demanding, like movie editing software, or a computer game, you might find it heats up and slows down a bit, at least in comparison to how a MacBook Pro would deal with the dame demands. That’s why we tend to recommend the MacBook Air to those who go beyond the typical user. Despite this, if you are upgrading an old computer, the MacBook Air will feel super speedy whatever you are doing with it. We have the data below to show just how much better MacBook Pro performance is compared to the MacBook Air. The chart below shows the Geekbench results for the various processors.05:10 pmStanford’s CS193p (Spring 2025) on iOS Development with SwiftUI is Here! | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingStanford’s CS193p (Spring 2025) on iOS Development with SwiftUI is Here!
submitted by /u/baykarmehmet [link] [comments]05:06 pmi’m glad they are taking action to reduce the amount of vibe coded slop on the App Store. | Reddit on iOS Programmingi’m glad they are taking action to reduce the amount of vibe coded slop on the App Store.
Apple tightens App Review Guidelines to crack down on copycat apps submitted by /u/Rare_Prior_ [link] [comments]05:05 pmTurn fuzzy footage into 4K magic with this AI video enhancer for Mac
Why spend hours laboring over your video files trying to make them shine? Use Macxvideo AI video enhancer for instant results. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)05:03 pmApple launches ‘Mini Apps Partner Program’ to tap ‘super app’ boom with slashed 15% fees | Mac Daily NewsApple launches ‘Mini Apps Partner Program’ to tap ‘super app’ boom with slashed 15% fees
Apple on Thursday launched the Mini Apps Partner Program, enabling the company to take a 15% cut — half its standard 30% commission… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.05:01 pmYelp Promotion Enrollment Issue
Status: IdentifiedWe've identified an issue with the Yelp Leads and Yelp Conversions promotion where eligible users were not automatically enrolled. As a result, free Yelp tasks did not apply as expected. A fix has been implemented and all eligible users are being enrolled. Impacted users will have affected tasks recredited. Zap runs and data remain unaffected. If you need help, contact Support: https://zapier.com/app/get-help04:44 pmDeals: Walmart early Black Friday now live, AirPods Pro 2 $139, Apple Watch Series 10 $249, AirTag $18, more | 9 to 5 MacDeals: Walmart early Black Friday now live, AirPods Pro 2 $139, Apple Watch Series 10 $249, AirTag $18, more
The massive Walmart Event 1 Black Friday sale is now live, the Week 3 Best BuyBlack Friday Doorbusters hit this morning, and your 9to5Toys Lunch Break is here to highlight the best of them. Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are seeing a major early Black Friday deal down at $139 shipped – one of the lowest prices they have ever been offered for – while Apple Watch Series 10 models have now dropped to new Amazon all-time lows from $249 (alongside the titanium model at $199 off). We also have AirTag down at the $18 Amazon low and a solid $250 price drop on the most affordable 13-inch M4 iPad Pro. All of that and more awaits below. more…04:37 pmBlack Friday blowout: Get an Apple AirTag for $18 for the first time ever
Macworld Whoa, now that’s a Black Friday deal! Apple’s super handy AirTags are now cheaper than ever as they drop to $18 a piece, a massive 38 percent discount from the regular $29 and the lowest price we’ve ever seen. And if you want four or more, you can get a bundle for $65 ($16.25 each), also an all-time low. These little discs are so useful to have at home. Whether you’re hooking them up to your keychain, placing them in your luggage, or wallet, or popping them in a backpack, an AirTag is one of those things you’d rather buy now than regret not having later. If you tend to misplace your keys, then you’ll love having an AirTag beep so you can locate them more easily when you’re in a hurry to leave the house. Similarly, when in your luggage, if it’s ever to go missing, you can track its location through the Find My app. When out of Bluetooth range, the Airtag will ping off other iPhones, thus allowing you to know its location. The great part is that these gadgets are water and dust-resistant, and they have a replaceable battery, so when it eventually goes out in a few years, you won’t need to get a new device. The only drawback is that they don’t have a keyring hole, but third-party accessories are pretty cheap. So go order one of these Apple AirTags for $18, their lowest price ever, and buy a little peace of mind this holiday season. Find your things with these affordable AirTagsBuy now at Amazon04:32 pm9to5Mac Daily: November 14, 2025 – Tesla + CarPlay coming soon?
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…04:23 pmRequest Review “Not Now” button disabled – iOS 26.1
Hello All, I am using the request review function in an app and with iOS 26.1 the "Not Now" button to dismiss the dialog is greyed out and disabled on device and simulator. You can not dismiss the dialog unless you select a star rating then it will change to submit and cancel. When you […]04:21 pmShould you get an Apple Card? Here’s what you need to know
Apple Card launched more than six years ago and has proven to be incredibly popular. The card offers an easy-to-use interface, robust perks like interest-free Apple financing, and more. Here’s everything you need to know about whether Apple Card is worth it for you. more…04:18 pmHere’s every iOS 26 setting I changed on my iPhone right away
iOS 26 and iOS 26.1 have brought a lot of new ways to customize your iPhone in the Settings app. Here are the new iOS 26 settings I changed on my iPhone right away. more…04:02 pmWith MLS games now available to all Apple TV subscribers, revenue-share plans may be altered | Mac Daily NewsWith MLS games now available to all Apple TV subscribers, revenue-share plans may be altered
In 2022, when Apple and Major League Soccer announced their 10-year global streaming partnership, the deal included two main… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.03:55 pmWalmart Black Friday Deals Begin Today With Low Prices on Headphones, TVs, and More
Walmart's Black Friday sale has officially kicked off today, with an online shopping event that's also seeing some matching deals in retail locations. There are quite a few major discounts in this sale, including savings on headphones, TVs, and more. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Walmart. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. Walmart's Black Friday Schedule The first part of Walmart's Black Friday sale has begun online for all shoppers, and it was available five hours early for Walmart+ members. The second event will run from November 25 through November 30 and be online only for the first two days. Once Black Friday hits on November 28, the sale will switch to include retail locations for the remainder of the duration. Walmart+ members get five hours early access beginning November 24 at 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Friday 11/14: First event begins online and in retail stores Monday 11/24: Second event begins online at 7 p.m. Eastern Time for Walmart+ members Tuesday 11/25: Second event opens for all shoppers Friday 11/28: Black Friday begins in stores at 6 a.m. local time Monday 12/1: Cyber Monday begins Walmart+ Membership If you aren't a Walmart+ member, you can get 50 percent off a membership for a limited time during this event. You'll pay $49 for one year of Walmart+, and this offer will run through December 2 at 11:59 p.m. ET. 50% OFFWalmart+ Annual MembershipDeals Available Now Like many retailers, Walmart's Black Friday offerings are wide and varied. You'll find major markdowns on video games, appliances, TVs, smart home products, speakers, headphones, and more. We've divided up some of the major discount categories in the sections below. UP TO 50% OFFWalmart's Early Black Friday SaleApple Walmart is coming out of the gate with some heavy-hitter Apple deals, including a new record low price on the Apple Watch Series 10. You can get the 42mm GPS device for $249.00 and the 46mm GPS device for $279.00, both $150 discounts and best-ever prices. Next, Walmart has the AirTag 1-Pack for just $18.00 during its early Black Friday event, down from $29.00. This is another new all-time low price, and Amazon is matching the sale this week. For audio deals, Walmart has the AirPods Pro 2 for $139.00, down from $249.00. This isn't quite an all-time low price, but so far it's one of the best deals we've seen on the headphones this holiday shopping season. There's also the Beats Solo Buds for the record low price of $39.00, down from $69.00. TVs 55-inch Element 4K Google TV - $299.99, down from $374.99 55-inch Samsung QLED 4K Smart TV - $348.00, down from $499.99 75-inch Hisense QLED 4K Roku Smart TV - $378.00, down from $499.00 75-inch Samsung 4K QLED Smart TV - $598.00, down from $799.99 98-inch TCL 4K QLED Google TV - $998.00, down from $1,798.00 65-inch LG 4K OLED Smart TV - $1,396.99, down from $2,499.99 Audio Beats Solo Buds - $39.00, down from $69.00 JBL Tune 670NC Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones - $64.95, down from $109.99 PHILIPS X3206 Portable Party Speaker - $69.00, down from $99.00 Computers HP Windows Laptop - $219.00, down from $549.00 ASUS Vivobook 16" WUXGA Laptop - $399.00, down from $649.00 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 forums03:53 pmSpotify Wrapped 2025: When will it launch?
The most exciting time of the year for Spotify fans is fast approaching. Spotify Wrapped is set to launch within the next several weeks, giving listeners a breakdown of their top songs, artists, albums, and more. more…03:38 pmApple TV dropped the ‘+’, but keeps adding value to win subscribers
Apple TV might not have the ‘+’ in its name anymore, but they keep plussing up their offering and adding even more content to make the service better value for money. That means an Apple TV subscription is more appealing than ever. As well as more originals, Apple is set to dramatically expand the live sports offering available on the service. Here’s what is coming to Apple TV in 2026. more…03:26 pmCostly iPhone Pocket sells out nearly immediately
The spiritual successor to the iPod Sock, Apple's new iPhone Pocket, is sold out across the US, in both sizes, and all colors despite its high cost.Take a good look — unless you already got in early, you may never get to see an iPhone Pocket — image credit: AppleLongtime Apple users immediately saw the resemblance with the old iPod socks, and everyone saw the price. Apple and Japan's Issey Miyake fashion house partnered to create a limited edition iPhone Pocket, a stretched sock-like bag or shoulder strap.There was no denying that an iPhone in this Pocket looked snuggly. There was definitely no denying that the accessory was well designed. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums03:22 pmMini Apps Partner Program
submitted by /u/JimDabell [link] [comments]03:22 pmApple quietly started selling 'Dark Cherry' accessories online and in-store
If you're a fan of burgundy accessories, you're in luck — Apple just started selling some. A range of "Dark Cherry" accessories for the iPhone and more is now available at the Apple Store.Dark Cherry accessories for everyoneNone of these accessories is made by Apple, but they do come from some of the most popular accessory brands around. Accessories from PopSockers and Herschel are included, among others.In total, Apple now sells 10 Dark Cherry accessories from a total of six companies. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums03:20 pmThe MacRumors Show: iPhone Pocket Unveiled and iPhone Air 2 Delayed
On this week's episode of The MacRumors Show, we discuss Apple's new iPhone Pocket accessory, the future of Apple Fitness+, and the iPhone Air 2's delayed launch. Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel for more videos Apple this week announced the iPhone Pocket, a 3D-knitted limited edition accessory made in collaboration with Japanese fashion house ISSEY MIYAKE. The accessory is like a stretchy pocket, similar to an iPod Sock, but elongated to form a strap made of a ribbed, elastic textile. The iPhone Pocket comes in two versions. There's a short strap design available in eight colors for $149.95, and a long strap design in three colors for $229.95. The iPhone Pocket can be used in a variety of ways – handheld, tied onto bags, or worn directly on the body. The limited-edition release is now available on Apple's online store and at select flagship Apple Store locations worldwide, although it is rapidly selling out. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman recently reported that the future of Apple Fitness+ is "under review." The service apparently suffers from high churn and little revenue, remaining one of the company's "weakest digital offerings." As a result, Fitness+ is now said to be in the process of receiving new management, with Apple health vice president Sumbul Desai taking control of the service. The health division, now including Apple Fitness+, will report directly to services chief Eddy Cue. The reorganization is likely to lead to added pressure to improve the service. In other news, it emerged this week that Apple's second-generation iPhone Air is to be delayed on account of the device's low sales, pushed back from the original target launch of fall 2026. Since the iPhone Air launched in September, there have been a multitude of reports of poor sales and significant production cuts. Apple has responded by scaling back shipments and winding down the supply chain, with all production expected to cease by the end of this month. Apple now plans to introduce a more substantially redesigned iPhone Air 2 model in the future, perhaps alongside the iPhone 18e and iPhone 18 in the spring of 2027. The new device could feature an additional rear camera with an ultra-wide lens, vapor-chamber cooling, reduced weight, a larger battery, and a new chip. The MacRumors Show has its own YouTube channel, so make sure you're subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips. Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel! You can also listen to The MacRumors Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or your preferred podcasts app. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your podcast player. If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up to hear our discussion about the AirPods Pro 3 and the future of the AirPods lineup as a whole. Subscribe to The MacRumors Show for new episodes every week, where we discuss some of the topical news breaking here on MacRumors, often joined by interesting guests such as Kayci Lacob, Kevin Nether, John Gruber, Mark Gurman, Jon Prosser, Luke Miani, Matthew Cassinelli, Brian Tong, Quinn Nelson, Jared Nelson, Eli Hodapp, Mike Bell, Sara Dietschy, iJustine, Jon Rettinger, Andru Edwards, Arnold Kim, Ben Sullins, Marcus Kane, Christopher Lawley, Frank McShan, David Lewis, Tyler Stalman, Sam Kohl, Federico Viticci, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo, and Rene Ritchie. The MacRumors Show is on X @MacRumorsShow, so be sure to give us a follow to keep up with the podcast. You can also head over to The MacRumors Show forum thread to engage with us directly. Remember to rate and review the podcast, and let us know what subjects and guests you would like to see in the future.Tag: The MacRumors ShowThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums03:14 pmiOS devs designing their own apps, please tell me where do you learn mobile app design patterns? | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingiOS devs designing their own apps, please tell me where do you learn mobile app design patterns?
Ive been coding swift for years but recently got put in charge of the entire UI for our app since we don't have a designer on the team. I mean Im totally comfortable with SwiftUI and can build anything technically but honestly have no idea if my design decisions are actually any good. Im constantly […]03:11 pmCarPlay in iOS 26.2 makes a key new feature even better (for some)
iOS 26.2 is coming next month with exciting updates for Reminders, Apple Music, Podcasts, and more. It’s also been discovered that a recent CarPlay addition, widgets, is getting even better in iOS 26.2—but it all depends on your vehicle. more…03:01 pmJason Momoa set to star in Apple TV’s outlaw biker series ‘Nomad’
Apple TV+ is developing a drama series titled "Nomad," with Jason Momoa in talks to star. The project is co-created by "Sons of Anarchy"… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.03:00 pmToday in Apple history: iPods take to the skies
On November 14, 2006, Apple said it would team up with six airlines to make in-flight iPods an option for flyers' entertainment. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)02:53 pmUnited Kingdom Account Security Carrier Partner Maintenance – EE
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Nov 18, 14:00 - 20:00 PSTNov 14, 06:36 PSTScheduled - Our carrier partner EE United Kingdom is conducting a planned maintenance from 18 November 2025 at 14:00 PST until 18 November 2025 at 20:00 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 MatchAndAttributes02:46 pmHow to deal with 429 / overloaded errors on AI
Hello all, I started adding AI features in my existing app like many others. Currently going with Google Gemini API. However, I often get "model overloaded" error when trying my newly-developed functions and need to retry 2-3 times before make them work. I'm currently on the first tier paid plan and haven't reach limits. I […]02:36 pmNew Apple rules keep apps from sending data to third-party AI
Apple's updated App Review Guidelines on AI require users to give permission (or not) before their data goes to third-party AI systems. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)02:32 pmGet an AirTag for Just $18.00 Today on Amazon
Apple's AirTag 4-Pack has been available at an all-time low price thanks to early Black Friday deals this month, and today the 1-Pack has finally joined in on the savings. You can get the AirTag 1-Pack for just $18.00, down from $29.00. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. This is a new record low price on the solo AirTag, and it beats past Amazon sales by about $6. Both AirTag models have a November 19 estimated delivery date for free shipping, but Prime members should see same-day delivery in many locations. $11 OFFAirTag 1-Pack for $18.00 $34 OFFAirTag 4-Pack for $64.99 You can get the AirTag 4-Pack for $64.99, down from $99.00. This is a match for the best price we've ever seen on the AirTag 4-Pack. 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 Roundup: Apple DealsThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums02:28 pmRed Dead Redemption is coming to iOS next month
The iPhone is about to get another AAA console-quality game: Red Dead Redemption is launching on iOS in just a few weeks. Here are the details. more…02:20 pmiPhone Pocket Now Available to Order, But Already Selling Out
Apple recently teamed up with Japanese fashion brand ISSEY MIYAKE to create the iPhone Pocket, a limited-edition knitted accessory designed to carry an iPhone. iPhone Pocket is available to order on Apple's online store starting today, in the United States, France, China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. However, it is already completely sold out in the United States, and many size and color combinations are quickly running out in the other countries too. The accessory can also be purchased at the following Apple Store locations, while supplies last: Apple Canton Road, Hong Kong Apple Ginza, Tokyo Apple Jing'an, Shanghai Apple Marché Saint-Germain, Paris Apple Myeongdong, Seoul Apple Orchard Road, Singapore Apple Piazza Liberty, Milan Apple Regent Street, London Apple SoHo, New York City Apple Xinyi A13, Taipei The accessory is offered in short and long sizes, in a variety of colors:Short: Lemon, Mandarin, Purple, Pink, Peacock, Sapphire, Cinnamon, and Black Long: Sapphire, Cinnamon, and BlackIn the U.S., pricing ranged from $149.95 to $229.95. iPhone Pocket is designed to be versatile. It can fully enclose an iPhone, but you can stretch it to peek at your screen and/or fit additional items. The accessory can be held in your hand, tied onto a bag, or worn directly on you. Here is how Apple describes the iPhone Pocket:Crafted in Japan, iPhone Pocket features a singular 3D-knitted construction that is the result of research and development carried out at ISSEY MIYAKE. The design drew inspiration from the concept of "a piece of cloth" and reinterpreted the everyday utility of the brand's iconic pleated clothing. The development and design of iPhone Pocket unfolded in close collaboration with the Apple Design Studio, which provided insight into design and production throughout.Given it is a limited-edition accessory, it is unclear if there will ever be additional inventory of the iPhone Pocket once it is fully sold out worldwide.This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums02:08 pmWorth using ads?
I published an app last year for fun as a warm-up project before a big work project and noticed it gets an in app purchase every other day or so. It’s self-contained so no cloud costs or anything and I push updates when I notice bugs since I use it daily. Is it worth using […]02:06 pmUh oh! The iPhone 16e is reportedly a failure too
Macworld The iPhone’s distinctly mixed year continues, with a report on social media this week claiming that the iPhone 16e is in the same poor-sales category as the divisive iPhone Air. In a Weibo post, the popular rumor account Fixed Focus Digital wrote (via Google translation) that “the iPhone Air and iPhone 16E haven’t sold very well, and iPhone’s attempt to lower prices has failed.” Whereas Apple is believed to have responded to the Air’s struggles by delaying or cancelling the second version of the product, Fixed Focus says the follow-up to the iPhone 16e is still on track for “a normal spring iteration.” Presumably, that means spring 2026, since the account refers to the product as the iPhone 17e. Don’t shed too many tears for Apple’s accountants. Reports suggest that the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max are all selling healthily, and there’s no doubt that Tim Cook would give up any number of 16e sales to shift an equivalent number of far more profitable premium phones. In fact, Apple’s most recent quarterly earnings report set a record with revenue of $102.5 billion In any case Fixed Focus doesn’t offer a source for its assertion, so it should be taken with a pinch of salt until we get corroboration. But it doesn’t come as a total surprise. As I explained in my review, the issue is that the 16e has many of the compromises of a budget phone, but without a truly budget price. The often-derided iPhone 5c ended up being moderately successful because it was, by Apple’s standards, cheap and cheerful. The iPhone SE was popular because you could buy one for $429. But the 16e starts at $599 despite having a single rear camera lens and no MagSafe. You can see why customers would be unimpressed.02:00 pm3 reasons Pluribus is the new must-watch series on Apple TV
Our "Pluribus" season 1 review finds creator Vince "Breaking Bad" Gilligan has done it again in a completely new and mind-blowing way. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)02:00 pmU.S. judge rules Apple and OpenAI must face Elon Musk’s xAI’s lawsuit
A federal judge in Texas on Thursday rejected attempts by Apple and OpenAI (the company behind ChatGPT) to dismiss a lawsuit filed… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.01:52 pmApple TV scores: MLS matches now included at no extra cost
Starting in 2026, anyone with a subscription to Apple TV can enjoy every regular-season MLS match. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)01:48 pmIf you can believe it, Apple’s iPhone Pocket is apparently the hottest new accessory
Macworld We really shouldn’t be surprised, but Apple’s iPhone Pocket is a hot commodity. Shortly after it went on sale earlier today, it appears to be selling out. A check of the U.S. website at 8:15am ET showed the long strap, which costs $230, sold out for delivery and unavailable for store pickup in all three colors. The short strap ($150) was sold out in Mandarin and Pink, while some colors were showing shipping in late November. As we wrote this story, the shorter Pocket in Black also sold out. And on the U.K. store, all three long straps (£219.95) are explicitly described as sold out. The accessory is described as a “special edition,” which implies stock might not be replenished. Notably, Apple’s website doesn’t usually list products as sold out, but rather pushes the estimated ship date out further as the initial stock depletes. Apple describes iPhone Pocket as “a singular 3D-knitted construction designed to fully enclose iPhone, while expanding to fit your everyday items.” It was designed in collaboration with the Issey Miyake studio, named for the late designer best known for designing Steve Jobs’ trademark black turtleneck. The iPhone Pocket features “a ribbed mesh structure” made of nylon and polyester, and will clearly be a conversation piece if you’re lucky enough to grab one before they’re all gone.01:47 pmBest iPad for seniors 2025: Which is the best iPad for older users?
Macworld If you’re an older user looking to pick up an iPad, or someone wanting to gift an Apple tablet to Grandad or Grandma, which is the best iPad to choose? There’s a fair selection in the current Apple catalog, from the diminutive iPad mini all the way up to the incredibly powerful (not to mention very expensive) iPad Pro. It can be intimidating, especially as different users have different needs. To help you make sense of it all, here’s our guide to finding the best iPad for seniors. What makes an iPad good for older users? iPad owners don’t magically transform into timid technophobes on their 70th birthdays, and there isn’t one right answer to this question. Any iPad model might turn out to be the right choice for a specific older user, depending on that user’s precise requirements. But there are a few criteria that tend to become more of a factor when our bodies begin to age. Screen size is one element: with eyes not being as strong as they once were a large, easy to read screen could be the most important factor. That said, weight and portability may also be important; some older users have arthritis, while others find they tire more easily than they used to when using a tablet for extended periods of time. The iPad could be an important part of the users connection to family and grandchildren, with video calling becoming a families go to method for staying in touch. A large screen is also ideal for viewing photos and videos and even reading ebooks. Price versus power and features is also an important consideration, since you don’t want to spend lots of money on a device with capabilities you’ll never really use. That said, you do want to be future-proofed though as users tend to go years between iPad updates. These requirements can be true for any user, so it’s always best to talk to the person in question about their particular needs if you want to pick the perfect tablet. The right model for you (or yours) will be determined by your budget and a number of other factors. The cheapest iPad is the A16 iPad, but if you pay a little more the 11-inch iPad Air is a great option. For a big screen, perfect for reading, watching videos or FaceTiming family the 13-inch iPad Air is ideal. Best large-screen iPad: Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3, 2025) Pros Gigantic screen Good performance thanks to M3 chip Good value Cons Heavy Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $719.47 View Deal $719.47 View Deal $749 View Deal $799 View Deal $799 View Deal $799.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Why the 13-inch iPad Air is good for seniors: All of the benefits of the 11-inch iPad Air (below) apply here, but the 13-inch model has some additional advantages that make it idea for older folk. For those with fading eye-sight, the larger, easy to read screen of the 13-inch iPad Air can be a real benefit. Here you have an iPad that’s about as big as a laptop – in fact this iPad could happily take the place of a laptop if you attach a keyboard. The size makes it ideal for viewing photos, video-calling the grandchildren and reading ebooks. It great value compared to the 13-inch iPad Pro and, while it’s less powerful than that model, if you aren’t likely to be using the iPad for the kind of features that require such power, such as gaming and video editing, an iPad Pro would be unnecessary. Read our full Apple iPad Air 13-inch review Best priced performance: 11-inch iPad Air (M3, 2025) Pros M3 processor USB-C port Smart connector Cons Expensive Price When Reviewed: $599 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $542.17 View Deal $559 View Deal $559 View Deal $599 View Deal $599 View Deal $599.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Why the 13-inch iPad Air is good for seniors: While it’s true that the iPad Pro models are the most powerful iPads available, for most people they are simply overkill. Also, they come with Pro-level prices, which isn’t great if you’re only going to use them to watch videos and FaceTime the grandkids. For the more discerning user who requires plenty of power but at a reasonable price, the iPad Air is an excellent solution. There’s not much to differentiate the iPad and 11-inch iPad Air, but, when you look closely, you can see from where the extra expense comes. The two devices are around the same size, and both sport a Liquid Retina display, but the one on the Air is fully-laminated, so there’s no air-gap between the glass and digitizer, which makes it feel like you’re touching the actual pixels and makes using the compatible Apple Pencil (2nd gen) that much smoother. They feature the same 12MP cameras on the back and front on the longer side of the device. But, under the hood the Air has the incredibly powerful M3 processor, which is found in several recent Macs. This takes things to another level. If someone wants to play games, use graphically intensive apps or just wants a really fast user experience, then the M3 delivers that in spades. The USB-C port allows you to connect various external devices, such as storage or monitors, so it can easily transform into a laptop with a processor that’s desktop-class. Apple offers the sleek Magic Keyboard folio case, but at $299/£319 it’s way overpriced, so we’d suggest a third-party Bluetooth keyboard and case as a more frugal option. Read our full Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3, 2025) review Best small tablet: Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) Price When Reviewed: $499 (128GB; Wi-Fi only) | $599 (256GB; Wi-Fi only) | $799 (512GB; Wi-Fi only) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $399.99 View Deal $469.36 View Deal $489 View Deal $489 View Deal $499 View Deal $499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Why the iPad mini (A17 Pro) is good for seniors: It’s a sad fact that as we age our bodies can lose some of their strength or gain some conditions that we avoided when younger. If you’re looking for a lightweight iPad, and therefore easier to hold for longer periods, then the iPad mini (A17 Pro) is the one to choose. At around 0.65lbs/293g it’s roughly half the weight of the standard iPad. This is made possible, as the name suggests, by the smaller display. But the 8.3-inch panel is still an excellent size for the web, not to mention better as an e-reader thanks to being easier to hold. Under the hood, the iPad mini is a powerhouse, with an A17 Pro chip (as seen in the iPhone 15 Pro), which is (unlike the A16) compatible with Apple Intelligence and therefore better future-proofed. Read our full Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) review Cheapest iPad: iPad (A16, 2025) Pros Affordable Bright screen Impressive battery life Cons No Apple Intelligence Glossy display Heavier and thicker than iPad Pro and Air Price When Reviewed: $349 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $299 View Deal $299.99 View Deal $324.99 View Deal $329 View Deal $349 View Deal $349 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Why the iPad (A16) is good for seniors: This is the cheapest iPad model in Apple’s current lineup. For many (perhaps most) people, this iPad will deliver everything you want from a tablet and not cost you a small fortune in the process. This iPad is ideal for surfing the web, watching streaming services, and shopping online. For FaceTime calls there’s a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera that offers advanced features such as Center Stage (which allows the user to move around on video calls while the iPad tracks them so they don’t disappear out of view) and 1080p video. Having an excellent video-call experience is key to keeping in touch with grandkids, friends or family around the world. The 10.9-inch display is also large enough for eyes that might be starting to diminish, while the touch targets on the screen will be easy to hit with unsteady hands. Of course, many seniors are full of more life and vigor than their grandchildren, and the ability to connect an Apple Smart keyboard and first-gen Apple Pencil makes this a perfect companion for traveling while writing memoirs or creating art. The main disadvantage to this iPad is the processor – it doesn’t run the AI Apple Intelligence features available on all other iPads. Apple Intelligence powers a variety of tools designed to enhance communication, creativity, and productivity, including writing tools, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence and more. Apple’s roll out of these features has been slow, so right now there may be nothing that appeals, but over the next few years the impact of these AI capabilities will grow and this iPad won’t support them. This iPad also lacks Stage Manager, which is a feature on the iPads Air and Pro that allows you to use multiple apps simultaneously in a way that is more like a desktop computer. Read our full Apple iPad (A16) review01:37 pmNew iPhone Pocket now available to order, but it’s selling out fast
Earlier this week, Apple announced iPhone Pocket, a new way to carry your iPhone designed in collaboration with ISSEY MIYAKE. After special launch events yesterday, the iPhone Pocket is now available to order in select countries around the world. It’s a special-edition accessory, and several colors and sizes are already sold out. more…01:00 pmThis 7-port magnetic mini hub upgrades your iPhone’s productivity
Satechi's OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter is the USB-C hub your iPhone needs. It magnetically attaches, providing all kinds of ports. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)12:39 pmiPod Sock reborn, Apple VIsion Pro carrier aviation, and the fate of iPhone Air 2 on the AppleInsider Podcast | AppleInsideriPod Sock reborn, Apple VIsion Pro carrier aviation, and the fate of iPhone Air 2 on the AppleInsider Podcast
On this week's AppleInsider Podcast, your hosts discuss the privacy implications of smart glasses, the spiritual successor to the iPod Sock, the misreported death of iPhone Air 2, watching jets take off in Apple Vision Pro, and more!Apple's latest Immersive Video takes us to the USS NimitzApple has launched its new digital passport feature for Apple Wallet, so the hosts discuss what else they'd like to see go digital in AppleInsider+. Though, one thing that won't be joining their EDC is Apple's new and expensive iPhone socks.Rumors about the iPhone Air being canceled have been withdrawn and replaced with one about a delay. Of course, no one knows how the iPhone Air is really selling, but there's little chance this is the only edition, and the next one could have two cameras. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:31 pmRed Dead Redemption and Undead Nightmare Coming to iOS on Dec 2
Rockstar Games has announced that acclaimed open-world game Read Dead Redemption and its Undead Nightmare expansion pack are coming to iOS and Android early next month. The December 2 release on mobile is part of a larger rollout for the epic Western on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Netflix. Red Dead Redemption launched in 2010 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. It follows John Marston, a former outlaw forced by federal agents to track down the remaining members of his old gang. Its successor, Red Dead Redemption 2 – released in 2018 for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One – acts as a narrative prequel. From Rockstar's website: Step into the events immediately following the blockbuster Red Dead Redemption 2, in the critically acclaimed tale of John Marston's journey to bury his blood-stained past. In its zombie-horror companion Undead Nightmare, fight to find a cure for the zombie plague that has overrun the frontier. According to Rockstar, the new versions feature the complete single-player experiences of both games with mobile-friendly control options, and they also include bonus content from the Game of the Year Edition. It's not clear yet what the hardware requirements are or how much the games will cost to buy. Red Dead Redemption earned multiple Game of the Year awards when it was released, and it is widely regarded as one of the best open-world games ever.Tag: Rockstar GamesThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums12:15 pmTraveling soon? You’ll want to download this essential app before you leave
Macworld International travel is easier than ever. Offline translation and navigation apps are readily available, and booking flights and accommodations can be done online from the comfort of your home. Still, you’ll need internet access upon arrival to order a ride, contact your Airbnb host, update family and friends, etc. Local carriers often sell SIM cards at international airports, but these usually come with a tourist tax and limited package options. I’ve been traveling from one place to another for the past five years, and Airalo is the app I always use to get instant 4G/5G cellular access as soon as I land. Here’s how it works. Like with most online services, when you download the Airalo app on your iPhone for the first time, you’ll have to sign up with your email address. Once you’re in, you can instantly start eSIM shopping. The app’s main tab features a search bar, letting you quickly locate the available packages for a certain country or continent. There are also global eSIMs that work in up to 137 countries. So, whether you’re touring multiple regions or heading to a single destination, you should find a package that covers your trip. The Airalo app is an indispensable tool for international travelers.Foundry After choosing the country or region, you get to view a list of available offers, which are predominantly data-only. This doesn’t bother me in the slightest, as all of my contacts primarily rely on VoIP and IM apps anyway. Each pack features a specific validity period and consumption quota, and you can always top up your active plan if you need more time or data. To proceed with the purchase, you simply enter your bank card details—and Airalo can optionally store them for faster checkouts in the future. When I’m planning an international trip, I buy a compatible Airalo eSIM and install it on my iPhone before I depart. All it takes is joining a Wi-Fi network and following the straightforward on-screen instructions. Assuming you haven’t opted for a continental or global eSIM, your plan won’t activate until you land and your iPhone automatically connects to the relevant carrier’s cell tower. So, you can safely install the eSIM in advance and enjoy the convenience of instant connectivity the moment your airplane lands. I’ve never experienced any issues with Airalo’s service, and when my friend unwittingly bought a package on his incompatible Android phone (ignoring the app’s multiple warnings), the company agreed to fully refund him. And thanks to their iOS widget, I can quickly glance at my Home Screen to find out how much data I still have left. It’s reliable and convenient, and it spares me from needing to sign up with numerous foreign carriers and pay marked-up prices.11:39 amInside Homebrew: How to get the best open source software on Mac, for free
Homebrew is the best source for open source software yet, and makes installation easy. Here's what Homebrew is, how it works, and how to use a graphical interface with the service to make it even easier.Homebrew on MacBefore Homebrew came along, the Mac was polished on the outside and messy underneath. Installing software meant dragging icons or unpacking files by hand, and the command line was something most users avoided.Developers knew macOS had real Unix power hidden inside, but Apple never gave them a simple way to use it. The tools existed but weren't connected. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums11:30 amFrom iPod Hi-Fi to iPhone Pocket: Apple’s Most Head-Scratching Products Ever
Macworld Apple is known for its iconic devices such as the Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, but the company also has an extensive lineup of accessories, ranging from USB cables to iPhone cases and even Apple Watch bands. And the company has just added a new member to its family of accessories. Dubbed iPhone Pocket, the new accessory is the result of a collaboration between the company and Issey Miyake. It’s essentially a small fabric sleeve with an expandable strap described as a “beautiful way to wear and carry your iPhone” around. Surprisingly, prices can reach $230 per piece. But this isn’t Apple’s first head-scratching accessory. Read on as we dive into some of the company’s most head-scratching creations. iPod Socks Apple When Steve Jobs announced iPod Socks as a “revolutionary new product” during an Apple event keynote in October 2004, many people laughed, thinking that Jobs wasn’t serious about launching a pack of colorful socks for iPods. Jobs even joked about how other companies were making a lot of money from third-party iPod accessories, while Apple had zero official accessories at that point. The idea was to compete with protective cases for iPods, but with an original, fun, and unexpected touch that only Apple could provide. The socks were compatible with pretty much all iPod models available at the time and protected them from scratches when they weren’t being used. iPod Socks weren’t exactly convenient since you had to take the iPod out of the sock to access the Click Wheel. Still, the accessory was fun, unique, and most importantly, quite affordable. A pack that included six color options cost $29, less than $5 per sock. In many ways, we can say that the new iPhone Pocket has a touch of inspiration from iPod Socks. U2 iPod Apple Also in 2004, at the same event where Jobs announced iPod Socks, Apple also unveiled the U2 Special Edition iPod. To celebrate the good relationship between Apple and U2, the company released a special edition iPod in black with a red Click Wheel. On the back, the iPod had the signatures of each member of the band laser-engraved. Customers who bought the U2 iPod also received an exclusive poster and a $50 coupon toward the first-ever Digital Box Set containing all of U2’s music up to that point. It was clearly made for superfans of U2 and wasn’t the last time Apple and U2 would cause waves of confusion. Only four generations of the U2 iPod have been released over the years, making the product an expensive collector’s item for those who still have one. The existence of the U2 iPod is a reminder that Apple loves to collaborate on new products from time to time. iPod Hi-Fi Apple Marketed as “home stereo reinvented,” the iPod Hi-Fi was Apple’s first attempt to bring music and its minimalist design language into the living room. A decade before HomePod existed, the iPod Hi-Fi amplified songs played through the iPod with the help of multiple speakers and a large built-in woofer. Since AirPlay wasn’t a thing back then, users had to plug their iPod into the Hi-Fi system using a 30-pin connector precariously placed at the top of the heavy speaker. There was also a 3.5mm headphone jack for connecting other devices to the iPod Hi-Fi. Due to its high price ($349), unimpressive sound, and lack of wireless connectivity, the iPod Hi-Fi never became a hit. Apple ended up discontinuing the product just one year later, after launching the first iPhone. And most people probably never missed it. iPad Keyboard Dock Apple When Apple announced the first iPad in 2010, the company also introduced an intriguing accessory: the iPad Keyboard Dock. Instead of a wireless keyboard or a folio case, it was literally a dock with a full-size keyboard attached. Despite Apple’s attempt to include keyboard shortcuts specifically designed for the iPad, the keyboard felt awkward, had no adjustability, and required the iPad to be connected via the 30-pin connector. Because of that, it was only possible to use the iPad with the keyboard in portrait orientation. The accessory cost $69, which was somewhat expensive for a clunky keyboard. The iPad Keyboard Dock was discontinued a year later, after the launch of the iPad 2. It took Apple four years to release another keyboard for the iPad, this time a much better one (the Smart Folio Keyboard). Mac Pro Wheels Kit and Pro Display Stand Apple When Apple introduced the 2019 Mac Pro and Pro Display XDR, the company marketed it as a modular, professional desktop that could handle everything from 8K video editing to advanced 3D rendering. But alongside this long-overdue Mac and monitor, the company unveiled two accessories that made all the headlines. For $699, customers could replace the standard stainless-steel feet with a set of four polished wheels so they could easily move their Mac Pro around. The idea made some sense for studio environments, but the price (nearly $175 per wheel) turned the Mac Pro Wheels Kit into a meme. To make things worse, the wheels don’t come with all the tools needed to install them on the Mac. In addition, the wheels don’t have locks, so your $6,000 computer could simply roll away if the floor isn’t perfectly level. But that wasn’t the only confoundingly overpriced accessory introduced. While the Mac Pro’s companion monitor, the 32-inch 6K Pro Display XDR, certainly impressed with its specs, users were more shocked that the $5,000 monitor didn’t come with a stand included. Rather, Apple sold a Pro Stand separately with an insane $999 price tag. It was impossible not to notice the crowd’s negative reaction at the event during the announcement (which was notably Apple’s last live keynote). Both products are over-engineered, beautifully crafted, and hard to justify. Yet, they’re both still available in stores. Apple Polishing Cloth Apple In 2021, Apple quietly released an accessory that no one asked for, but everyone talked about. The Apple Polishing Cloth appeared on the company’s online store with a $19 price tag and a simple description: a soft, nonabrasive material that “cleans any Apple display.” Almost immediately, the cloth went viral. Some mocked it as the ultimate symbol of Apple’s luxury pricing, while others defended it, claiming it actually worked better than cheap microfiber alternatives. The product even sold out within hours, with shipping dates slipping by months. It became both a meme and a collector’s item, proving that Apple can even turn a simple cleaning accessory into a status symbol. To this day, the Polishing Cloth remains on sale, a small but perfect example of Apple’s ability to make small things seem premium. iPhone Crossbody Strap Apple More recently, Apple introduced another accessory that divided people’s opinions: the iPhone Crossbody Strap. The strap can be attached to all Apple iPhone 17 cases and lets users wear their brand new iPhone as a fashion accessory, similar to the new iPhone Pocket. While some see no point in the accessory, others seem to like the idea of carrying their iPhone around as if it were a small purse. One thing we can’t deny is that the accessory isn’t cheap either: $59 for each skinny strap, and the case isn’t included. Weird, but very Apple As you can see, Apple has a long history of trying to push new accessories. While some fail, others emphasize Apple’s ability to turn almost anything into a premium product. It’s still too early to tell whether the new iPhone Pocket will be a hit or whether it will quietly disappear in a year, but at least Apple is once again trying to do something different.11:28 amHow I wrangled Apple’s on-device LLM into choosing the right SF Symbols
I’d been struggling for ages to get Apple’s on-device model to do anything genuinely useful. It felt like it should be able to pick icons for my app Hour by Hour, but SF Symbols are so specific that they're underrepresented in LLM training data (especially for a 3b parameter model), so it just hallucinated wildly. […]11:25 amWhatsApp Launching Third-Party Chat Support Across EU Countries
WhatsApp is close to rolling out third-party chat support across the European Union, as part its compliance with the bloc's Digital Markets Act (DMA). WhatsApp parent company Meta is required by the DMA to make its messaging platform interoperable with other third-party services, and Meta says the first apps that WhatsApp will support are BirdyChat and Haiket, following successful testing over recent months. WhatsApp users on iOS and Android who choose to make use of the interoperability support will be able to share messages, images, voice messages, videos, and files. Meta says there will also be an option to create groups with third-party users, once its partners are ready to support the feature. Meta did not mention web apps or desktop apps, suggesting this will be mobile-only interoperability. According to Meta, third-party messaging apps must use the same level of end-to-end encryption as WhatsApp to maintain security standards. From Meta's newsroom post: Meta's partnerships with BirdyChat and Haiket is a result of more than three years of work with European messaging services and the European Commission to build a solution to third-party chats that meets the requirements of the DMA, while preserving privacy and security for users as much as possible. This follows three core principles: Protecting user security and privacy: In line with DMA requirements, third-party messaging apps must use the same level of E2EE as WhatsApp. Clear and simple experience: We've provided users with a simple onboarding experience, while ensuring they understand the main differences between chats on WhatsApp and third-party chats. Available to European users: In line with DMA requirements, third-party chats will be available to people in the European Region.Meta says that over the coming months, WhatsApp users in the European Region will begin seeing a notification in the app's Settings tab that will explain how they can opt-in to connect with people on third-party apps. Meta intends to "expand our interoperability offerings" as required by the DMA, and will provide updates on its progress as it rolls out further features in time. In February 2024, WhatsApp claimed it had been working on interoperability for years, and that its work was only partially motivated by the DMA.Tag: WhatsAppThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums10:37 amAnalytics. Who do you use?
I’ll frame this post as it’s not a discussion on why you shouldn’t or should use analytics. Everyone has their own opinions on that – that’s fine and not the point of this post. Having said that. Who do you use for analytics? I’m using Telemetry Deck. However their web UI for building dashboards is […]10:15 amTesla is looking to incorporate CarPlay features to help boost lagging sales
Whether you love or hate Tesla at this point in history, the company may be looking to finally add CarPlay to its feature set. According to Bloomberg, Tesla is developing support for CarPlay. Sources close to the story have stated that while Tesla has long developed its own infotainment system, drivers have long said that […] Source10:00 am1Password offers new unlock settings, other features
This could come in handy. Software developer 1Password on Thursday announced a redesigned unlock system for Mac and Windows that allows the app to open automatically when a user unlocks their device. The new setting lets the application unlock alongside the operating system when a user authenticates with either Face ID, Touch ID, a PIN, […] Source08:46 amApple 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. submitted by /u/Late-Scarcity-5476 [link] [comments]08:38 amHonest poll: indie dev income levels in 2025
hey everyone, i’m really curious about the real indie dev journey people here are going through. online you always see these “i made 100k in 2 weeks” stories, but that’s not how it feels for most of us. in my case the journey has been hard. it’s taking years, lots of failed ideas, lots of […]08:35 amMackie CR3.5BT review: Compact audio monitors at a good price
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Powerful sound Good speech intelligibility Favourable price Flexible connection options Front volume control Cons No digital input Subwoofer recommended Our Verdict Mackie’s CR monitors offer solid performance at an entry-level price. Although a digital USB input is missing, the features are impressive for the money. The speakers really come into their own on the desk, while larger models are recommended for use on a shelf. The CR series is also available with or without Bluetooth. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed$129.99 Best Prices Today: Mackie CR3.5BT Retailer Price $129.99 View Deal Mackie $130 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Mackie CR3.5BT are active 2-way studio monitors featuring a 3.5-inch woofer and a 0.75-inch fabric tweeter, making them ideal for desktop and home studio applications. With compact dimensions of 206 by 140 by 180 millimeters, they can be positioned flexibly. The low weight of just 3.7 kilograms per pair also ensures easy handling and mobility. Mackie CR monitors offer a comprehensive range of features and numerous connection options that allow the monitors to be used in a variety of ways. Wireless audio streaming is easily possible thanks to Bluetooth 5.0. Various analog inputs are also available: two 6.3 mm jack sockets (balanced/unbalanced), two RCA connections (RCA), and a 3.5 mm stereo mini jack. These monitors do not have any digital inputs. There is also a headphone output with a 3.5 mm stereo jack on the front. As soon as headphones are connected, the speakers mute automatically. This means that audio interfaces, mixers, turntables, or other playback sources can be connected flexibly. There is a tone control on the front, which can be used to intuitively adjust the sound. Depending on the setting, the sound can be particularly transparent and linear or bass- or treble-emphasized. This is ideal for various applications such as gaming, the living room, or parties. The speaker also has a volume control with an on/off detent. A position switch on the back allows you to choose between desktop mode (for short listening distances, for example, in the studio) and bookshelf mode (for longer distances, for example, up to the couch). The cabling can be flexibly adjusted using the L/R position switch. The integrated power supply unit (100 to 240 volts) simplifies cabling as no external power supply unit is required. The scope of delivery includes a speaker connection cable, an RCA to jack cable, and foam pads. Technically, there are hardly any surprises. Amplification is provided by a Class D power amplifier with a peak output of 50 watts and a continuous output of 25 watts RMS. The housing is made of MDF and has a bass reflex port for improved bass reproduction. Mackie positions the CR3.5BT as a universal speaker for the desktop on a Mac, as well as a stereo speaker for connecting to a player such as a turntable or a streaming player. I first tested the Mackie CR3.5BT via Bluetooth. This revealed the first problem with our M4 Mac Studio: the speakers were on the desk, the Mac Studio M4 under the desk, and this was apparently enough to permanently disrupt the Bluetooth connection. A test with the iPhone, on the other hand, worked without any problems. Alternatively, the Mac’s headphone output could have been used. The sound via Bluetooth is immediately convincing. The CR3.5BT utilizes its decent housing volume for a surprisingly full sound. It is important to set the switch on the back correctly: “Desktop” for placement on the desk at a short distance from the listener or “Bookshelf” if the speakers are placed further away on a shelf, for example. The maximum sound resolution is primarily limited by Bluetooth and the AAC codec, but it is fine for music and speech. It is pleasantly clear for speech, but can sometimes be a little sharp and aggressive for music. Switching to the direct connection of an Eve Play audio streaming player and positioning it on a speaker stand at ear height changes the listening experience. Listening to Tension II by Kylie Minogue plays much more airily and freely. What was sufficient on the desk, the bass, is too weak when positioned at some distance from a wall. This is particularly noticeable with pop, disco and rock. There’s a lack of punch here, but that’s not surprising given the small woofer. In this application scenario, it is best to use the optional CR8SBT subwoofer. Depending on the music genre, the tweeter can be somewhat aggressive, which is primarily noticeable at higher volumes. Should you buy the Mackie CR3.5BT? The CR3.5BT can’t perform miracles, but it delivers a solid performance for its price. Beginners can buy these without hesitation, but will have to live with the fact that there is no digital USB input. Anyone looking for more sound or additional features will quickly end up paying around three times the price. The features of the CR3.5BT are impressive for the low price: three analogue inputs, a headphone output, a tone control, and an easily accessible volume control conveniently located on the front. The speakers really come into their own on the desk; on the shelf, we would recommend one or even two sizes larger models.08:19 amPoignant documentary Come See Me in the Good Light is available to watch now on Apple TV | 9 to 5 MacPoignant documentary Come See Me in the Good Light is available to watch now on Apple TV
A poignant new documentary film called Come See Me in the Good Light is now available to watch on the Apple TV subscription service. You can get a seven-day free trial for new sign-ups here. This is the latest Apple TV movie that the company acquired from the Sundance film festival. It follows a poet, Andrea Gibson, who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Gibson resolves to live the rest of her life to the fullest. more…08:19 amPoignant documentary Come See Me in the Good Light is available to watch now on Apple TV | 9 to 5 MacPoignant documentary Come See Me in the Good Light is available to watch now on Apple TV
A poignant new documentary film called Come See Me in the Good Light is now available to watch on the Apple TV subscription service. You can get a seven-day free trial for new sign-ups here. This is the latest Apple TV movie that the company acquired from the Sundance film festival. It follows a poet, Andrea Gibson, who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Gibson resolves to live the rest of her life to the fullest. more…08:00 amSave $80 on a lifetime license to MS Office 2024 Home & Business
Macworld TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC for just $169.97 (MSRP $249.99) — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook with no ongoing fees. Your career deserves reliable, up-to-date productivity tools. For a limited time, you can get a Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business Lifetime License for Mac or PC for just $169.97 (MSRP $249.99). This one-time purchase gives you lifetime access to essential Microsoft apps — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook — without recurring subscription fees. Office 2024 is designed for modern pros who need seamless collaboration, offline reliability, and strong security. It features a modernized user interface that follows Microsoft’s Fluent Design principles. Performance upgrades—especially in Excel—allow you to work with large datasets and multiple workbooks without lag. PowerPoint now includes enhanced presentation recording capabilities, letting you add voice narration and video directly into your slides. AI-powered features across Word and Excel offer intelligent suggestions, natural language processing, and smarter data analysis to boost productivity. Office 2024 also improves real-time co-authoring, integrates more deeply with Microsoft Teams, and provides reliable offline access. It’s a permanent, professional-grade solution for anyone who needs top-tier Office tools without ongoing costs. Get a Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business Lifetime License for Mac or PC for just $169.97 (MSRP $249.99) through November 16. Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC Lifetime LicenseSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.06:17 amShare your app with me. I will help you give honest feedback.
I have been working on building an app for a month now, and I'm almost done with it, before asking others to try out my app for feedback. I would like to give to the world first and then ask for help. Don't worry, I won't be asking you to check out my app until […]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).Firehose II – Jobs, Deals, Apps
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