Firehose – News, Alerts, Docs
- Friday March 13
- 01:09 pmThe iOS Weekly Brief – Issue 51 (News, tools, upcoming conferences, job market overview, weekly poll, and must-read articles) | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingThe iOS Weekly Brief – Issue 51 (News, tools, upcoming conferences, job market overview, weekly poll, and must-read articles)
TL;DR – Apple to celebrate 50 years of thinking different – Xcode 26.4 Beta 3 – Thread Safety in Swift – Preventing Data Races with Locks, Queues, and Actors – Get Rid of Your SwiftGen Dependency – What you should know before Migrating from GCD to Swift Concurrency – Agent skills in Xcode: How to […]01:06 pmDoes storekit do A/B testing? If so, how does it compare to other services? | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingDoes storekit do A/B testing? If so, how does it compare to other services?
submitted by /u/0__O0--O0_0 [link] [comments]01:00 pmTop 15 setups where MacBook Pro runs the show
We scoured the archives for the top 15 MacBook Pro setups, with an emphasis on striking aesthetics, clever engineering and smart gear choices. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)12:56 pmKoubou: Generate App Store screenshots with HTML/CSS templates
Hey r/iOSProgramming, I've shipped 5 iOS apps last year and one of my top hated pieces of the process was screenshots. I automated uploading with asc cli (super nice tool btw) but still the part about creating them was a pain. So I created Koubou to automate this. I did it some time ago but […]12:46 pmMacBook Neo, iPhone 17e and special guest David Pogue on the AppleInsider Podcast
David Pogue, author of "Apple: The First 50 Years" is our special guest talking about what did and did not make it into the book, plus there are rumors of the HomeHub and real-world news of the MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e, all on the AppleInsider Podcast.David Pogue talks about his new history of Apple bookPogue is everywhere this week, talking about his 600-page history of Apple, but now you can hear the very first interview he gave about it. Listen to the stories behind the book, but also hear just how keen he was to find out what AppleInsider thought of it.It's a wide-ranging interview, but of course the book is not the only thing happening this week. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:06 pmApp Store review messages
One of my updates got rejected on the 3rd march, 5 mins later I replied to App Store review asking for more information, and providing more information on what the issue was. 3 days ago I also submitted another separate request that allowed me ti challenge the rejection. I haven’t received any messages or emails […]12:00 pmDataStoreKit: An SQLite SwiftData custom data store
Hello! I released a preview of my library called DataStoreKit. DataStoreKit is built around SwiftData and its custom data store APIs, using SQLite as its primary persistence layer. It is aimed at people who want both ORM-style SwiftData workflows and direct SQL control in the same project. I already shared it on Swift Forums, but […]11:41 amAppStore Connect: Review notifications
Not sure whether it's just me, but I only get review notifications for reviews from other stores than my "home store". I get no notifications whatsoever for new reviews coming in for my country. Do others observe that as well? I mean, what could be any meaningful reasoning if that would be implemented like that […]11:24 amLexar TouchLock Portable SSD review: Secure NFC storage for iPhone, Mac & more
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Strong security for your files NFC on iPhone is easy to use Compact, lightweight design Cons No IP rating Modest performance Our Verdict There are faster – and more rugged – drives available for professional users. However, the TouchLock’s clever NFC features provide good security for your important files, along with admirable ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of computers and mobile devices. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed512GB $99.99 | 1TB: $159.99 Best Prices Today: Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD Retailer Price $99.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best for iPhone users who want simple secure storage Mobile photo/video backups Travel storage Not ideal for High-speed editing workflows Rugged outdoor use Thunderbolt/USB4 performance needs Lexar makes a number of portable storage devices that focus on smartphones and mobile devices rather than just Macs and PCs. The latest addition to its range is the TouchLock Portable SSD. At first glance, the TouchLock looks like a fairly conventional solid-state drive, and its USB-C interface allows it to work with Macs and PCs as well as mobile devices. However, it also includes several additional features that provide extra security, along with MagSafe compatibility for iPhone users. This drive is primarily aimed at iPhone owners who want simple NFC-based security and convenient MagSafe mounting rather than maximum transfer speeds. There are currently two versions of the TouchLock available. The 512GB model costs $99.99/£69.99, while the 1TB version that we tested costs $159.99/£119.99. Lexar has also indicated that it plans to release a 2TB model, although it wasn’t available at the time of writing. A USB-C interface provides compatibility with most recent computers and mobile devices. Lexar The TouchLock is neatly designed, with a sleek silver case that measures just 7mm thick, 53mm wide and 85mm high, and weighs only 40g. It’s easy to slip into a pocket or bag when travelling, and Lexar says the drive can withstand drops from up to two metres. However, the company doesn’t provide an IP rating for water or dust resistance, so users who need a more rugged drive for outdoor use may want to consider alternatives such as LaCie’s Rugged SSD range. The compact design also makes it small enough to attach directly to an iPhone when backing up photos or video files. The back panel of the TouchLock includes a MagSafe-compatible magnetic ring that holds it in place (and it also worked with the MagSafe sleeve I use to protect my iPhone). The drive has a standard USB-C interface, and Lexar includes a USB-C cable with a USB-A adaptor in the box so it can connect to recent Apple devices, as well as Windows PCs and Android devices with USB-C. Admittedly, it’s not the fastest portable SSD available. The TouchLock supports USB 3.2 (Gen 1), with Lexar quoting read and write speeds of 450MB/s and 420MB/s respectively. Those figures are modest compared with some newer USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 drives, but Lexar says the TouchLock can still handle direct recording of Apple ProRes video at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second (though not at 120fps). In our tests, the drive didn’t quite reach the quoted speeds, generally delivering around 350MB/s for both read and write performance. Even so, that should be more than adequate for routine Time Machine backups on a Mac, as well as backing up photos, videos and other files from an iPhone or iPad. How iPhone NFC locking works The standout feature of the TouchLock is its ability to use NFC (Near Field Communication) on your iPhone to lock and unlock the drive. When you first plug the TouchLock into a Mac, PC or other device, it doesn’t immediately appear on the desktop like a conventional USB drive. Instead, you must first set up its security features using the Lexar app on an iPhone or Android phone. The process is straightforward. Plug the TouchLock into any Mac or other device that can power it via USB-C, then launch the Lexar app on your phone. The first time you use the drive, the app prompts you to create a security code. After that, it uses your phone’s NFC capability to unlock the drive so you can access your files and use it like a normal external drive. (The iPhone has included NFC since the iPhone 6, although NFC isn’t currently available on Macs or iPads.) The TouchLock is locked to protect your files, and can only be unlocked by using NFC on your personal iPhone. Lexar How you unlock the TouchLock with an iPhone The NFC chip in an iPhone is typically located near the camera on the back of the device. To unlock the TouchLock, simply hold that area of the phone against the NFC pad on the front of the drive, which is marked with a small padlock icon. The Lexar app then communicates with the drive via NFC and unlocks it so you can access your files. As a helpful touch, the app uses haptic feedback to make the iPhone vibrate when the drive has been successfully unlocked. When the TouchLock is unplugged from a Mac or other device, it automatically locks again and can only be unlocked using the Lexar app on your personal iPhone. The files stored on the drive are also protected with 128-bit encryption, preventing others from accessing them with the Lexar app on their own phone. Should You Buy The Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD? It may not be the fastest solid-state drive available, but the TouchLock Portable SSD offers strong security for important files and data. It works with a wide range of computers and mobile devices, and its NFC-based unlocking system is easier to use than many password-protected drives we’ve tested. Combined with its compact design and MagSafe compatibility, it’s an affordable and convenient option for keeping important files secure while travelling.11:15 am13-inch MacBook Air (M5) review: Fast and steady wins the race
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Fantastic performance for this laptop class Double the storage capacity and performance All-day battery life and then some Cons Still no HDR or variable refresh rate Not much has changed in four years Our Verdict The more things change, the more the MacBook Air stays the same. It may not be much different from the model from last year or from 2022, but this is still a winning formula that works just right for most users. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When ReviewedFrom $1,099 Best Prices Today: Apple 13-inch MacBook Air (M5, 2026) Retailer Price $1099 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If you’ve used a MacBook Air in the last four years, you know exactly what to expect of the new M5-equipped model. Apple’s most popular laptop has changed very little. It’s really all about the M5 chip, which delivers impressive year-on-year performance improvements. However, the MacBook Air is no longer the entry-level option. With the launch of the $599 Neo, the MacBook Air, which now starts at $1,099, is firmly in the mid-range of Apple’s laptop lineup. That doesn’t necessarily mean the Air is targeting a different audience, but its positioning puts it in a different light. Unfortunately, you won’t find anything surprising or especially noteworthy about the new M5 version of the MacBook Air. It continues to be a stable workhorse in Apple’s lineup, and a great laptop for most, but it’s hard to get excited about somewhat longer benchmark bars on a benchmark chart year after year. M5 MacBook Air: Design, display, and specs Apple has changed precious little about the MacBook Air since the M2 model was introduced four years ago. With the M4 model last year, it swapped out the Space Gray color option for Sky Blue and added the newer 12MP Center Stage camera with Desk View, updated the USB-C ports to Thunderbolt 4, and improved the Wi-Fi support to Wi-FI 6E. A pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports and MagSafe charging. Just like last year.Foundry This year, Apple updated the wireless chip to its own N1 (with Wi-Fi 7 support and Bluetooth 6) and doubled the starting storage to 512GB (while raising the price by $100). The SSD is a lot faster, too. A minor detail: The keyboard now has glyphs on the Tab, Caps Lock, Return, and Shift keys instead of words like the rest of Apple’s MacBook lineup. Unfortunately, it has the same four colors, which seem even more subdued next to the MacBook Neo. These keys used to have words instead of glyphs. Other than that, the keyboard is unchanged.Foundry MacBook Air pricing has bounced back and forth for years. The M1 model started at $999. That shot up to $1,199 with the M2 model, which was then reduced to $1,099 when the 15-inch model arrived. The M4 model cut the price again to $999, and now we’re back to $1,099 for the 13-inch model or $1,299 for the 15-inch model. That entry-level model gets you the reduced-spec M5 with 10 CPU cores and 8 GPU cores. Our review unit has the full M5 with 10 CPU and 10 GPU cores, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, bringing the price to $1,299. In the U.S., Apple now includes the new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max with the MacBook Air rather than the 30W USB-C Power Adapter (13-inch base model only) or the 35W Dual USB-C Port Power Adapter. M5 MacBook Air: Performance We already viewed the M5-based MacBook Pro, and as expected, the performance of the M5 in the MacBook Air is very similar. As is always the case, the MacBook Pro will run certain tasks a bit faster since it has active cooling for sustained peak performance, while the MacBook Air delivers quiet performance with no fan at all. This causes the processor to slow down when things get too hot, lowering performance. Geekbench 6 CPU11:12 amApple at 50: Mike Markkula, Apple's second CEO was as important as Steve Jobs
Neither of Apple's first two CEOs are particularly remembered next to the likes of Steve Jobs, John Sculley, or Tim Cook, yet Mike Markkula, Apple's second CEO, certainly should be.Mike Markkula (right) with Steve Jobs in the 1970s — image credit: allaboutstevejobsMichael Scott was the first CEO of Apple, but he was hired by Mike Markkula. And then if not exactly fired, he was at least pointed toward the door by Markkula.Without Markkula, there would quite possibly never have been an Apple. And there certainly wouldn't be one that stood the test of time. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums11:04 amWhat Is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)?
A managed security service provider (MSSP) is a third-party company that provides ongoing cybersecurity monitoring and support for an organization. Instead of building a full internal security operations team, a business can use an MSSP to monitor security alerts, investigate suspicious activity, and help respond when something goes wrong. Cybersecurity isn’t just a big-company problem […] The post appeared first on The Mac Security Blog.11:02 amParallels Confirms MacBook Neo Can Run Windows in a Virtual Machine
Parallels Desktop virtualization software is compatible with the new MacBook Neo, according to an update from the company – but Windows VM performance will depend on your intended use case. From Parallels' updated knowledge base article: Parallels Desktop runs on MacBook Neo in basic usability testing. The Parallels Engineering team has completed initial testing and confirmed that Parallels Desktop installs and virtual machines operate stably on MacBook Neo. Full validation and performance testing is ongoing, and additional compatibility statement will follow if required.When Apple launched the $599 MacBook Neo this week, some asked whether its A18 Pro chip – which first debuted in the iPhone 16 Pro – would be capable of running Windows via Parallels Desktop. Fortunately, the A18 Pro is based on the same ARM architecture as Apple's M-series chips, which are made specifically for Macs, so the processor isn't an issue. What could be an issue is what you intend to do inside the virtual machine. The MacBook Neo comes with 8GB of RAM (Apple doesn't offer a memory upgrade option) and a Windows 11 VM requires a minimum of 4 GB of RAM to function, which leaves only 4GB for macOS and Mac apps simultaneously. Parallels states the context plainly: "For light, occasional Windows use, like a legacy business tool, or a Windows-only utility, MacBook Neo may provide an acceptable experience. For CPU- or GPU-intensive Windows applications, this computer is not the right choice." The "right choice" comes down to personal preference, but for those looking for a new machine, the next step up would be Apple's $1,099 MacBook Air with M5 chip, which comes with a minimum of 16GB RAM, with memory upgrade options available. Or for a cheaper option, refurbished base M4 MacBook Air models also come with 16GB RAM as standard.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoTag: Parallels DesktopBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook NeoThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums11:00 amApple MacBook Neo Beats Ever Single x86 PC CPU For Single-Core Performance
Early benchmarks show the A18 Pro-powered MacBook Neo beating every current x86 CPU in single-core Cinebench performance, including chips from Intel and AMD. Notebookcheck reports: We have performed a couple of benchmarks and were particularly impressed by the single-core performance. Not in the short Geekbench test, but in Cinebench 2024, where a single-core test takes about 10 minutes. The A18 Pro consumes between 3.5-4 Watts in this scenario and scores 147 points. This means it is faster than every other x86 processor in our database, including the two desktop processors Intel Core Ultra 9 285K & AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This also means the MacBook Neo beats every modern mobile processor from AMD, Intel and also Qualcomm, even though the upcoming Snapdragon X2 chips should be a bit faster. The A18 Pro is also slightly faster than Apple's own M3 generation in this scenario. Further reading: ASUS Executive Says MacBook Neo is 'Shock' to PC Industry Read more of this story at Slashdot.11:00 amApple MacBook Neo Beats Every Single x86 PC CPU For Single-Core Performance
Early benchmarks show the A18 Pro-powered MacBook Neo beating every current x86 CPU in single-core Cinebench performance, including chips from Intel and AMD. Notebookcheck reports: We have performed a couple of benchmarks and were particularly impressed by the single-core performance. Not in the short Geekbench test, but in Cinebench 2024, where a single-core test takes about 10 minutes. The A18 Pro consumes between 3.5-4 Watts in this scenario and scores 147 points. This means it is faster than every other x86 processor in our database, including the two desktop processors Intel Core Ultra 9 285K & AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This also means the MacBook Neo beats every modern mobile processor from AMD, Intel and also Qualcomm, even though the upcoming Snapdragon X2 chips should be a bit faster. The A18 Pro is also slightly faster than Apple's own M3 generation in this scenario. Further reading: ASUS Executive Says MacBook Neo is 'Shock' to PC Industry Read more of this story at Slashdot.10:51 amGrand Central Station Apple Store closes temporarily
Customers at Apple Grand Central are being directed to other stores while it's closed for March 12 and 13. There's no explanation, but it's likely to be to do with Apple's 50th anniversary celebrations.View of Apple Grand Central from across the station — image credit: AppleApple Grand Central is used to being used for promotional events — it was where the "Severance" pop-up was in January 2025. Given its size and how many people go by it in Grand Central Station, it would make sense for an anniversary event to be held there.As yet there is no indication, though, of whether it's an anniversary event, an unrelated promotion, or simply a refurbishment of the store. Buyers coming to the store on Thursday March 12, 2026, just saw a sign telling them it was closed. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums10:49 amSennheiser HD 400U Review: Great sound and Lossless Audio for under $100
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Great sound and competitive price Firm, strong bass Comfortable, lightweight design Built-in mic for voice calls Cons Wired only, with no Bluetooth No noise-cancellation Our Verdict There are no digital features such as noise-cancellation or Bluetooth, but the HD 400U provides very good sound quality at a competitive price. The lightweight design is comfortable to wear, and its USB-C connection supports lossless and high-res audio on Apple Music and other streaming services. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed$99.95 Best Prices Today: Sennheiser HD 400U Retailer Price $99.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Sennheiser’s new HD 400U wired headphones show that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy high-quality sound. Priced at $99.95/£69.99, the over-ear headphones use a USB-C wired connection that delivers what Sennheiser calls “pure, uncompressed audio,” supporting lossless and high-resolution music up to 24-bit/96kHz on services such as Apple Music. Despite the modest price, the HD 400U delivers impressive sound quality, strong bass and a lightweight, comfortable design, making it an affordable option for listeners who want the best possible audio quality from modern streaming services. Wired headphones may feel like a throwback in the age of wireless earbuds, especially since Apple removed the 3.5mm headphone jack from the iPhone 7 in 2016 — a move that helped accelerate the rise of Bluetooth devices such as AirPods. While wireless headphones have dominated ever since, Bluetooth audio still relies on data compression, which means it can’t deliver true lossless sound. As streaming services such as Apple Music increasingly offer lossless and high-resolution audio, wired headphones like the HD 400U are enjoying something of a comeback among listeners who want the best possible sound quality. USB-C and Lossless Audio Support The HD 400U includes a USB-C cable that works with recent Macs, iPhones and other USB-C devices, allowing listeners to enjoy lossless and high-resolution audio without spending hundreds of dollars on premium models such as Apple’s AirPods Max, which cost $549/£499. Instead, Sennheiser focuses on the essentials: a comfortable, lightweight design and strong sound quality at an affordable price. Padded earpieces and lightweight design ensure that the HD 400U is comfortable to wear for hours at a time. Sonova Consumer Hearing GmbH Design & Comfort Padded earpieces and the lightweight design ensure that the HD 400U is comfortable to wear for hours at a time. The headphones weigh just 217g — far lighter than the 386g AirPods Max — and the thick padding helps reduce pressure during long listening sessions. The design itself is straightforward and practical. The headphones are made from matte-black plastic, which doesn’t feel as premium as metal-clad rivals like the AirPods Max but should be durable enough to survive life in a backpack. The earcups fold flat for easier storage, and Sennheiser includes a fabric carrying pouch. Features and Limitations Of course, the low price does mean that the HD 400U lacks some features that certain users may want. There’s no Bluetooth option and no noise-cancellation, and the headphones don’t include a dedicated volume control, so you’ll need to adjust volume on your phone or other device. However, the cable does include simple inline controls, with a microphone for voice calls and a single button for Play/Pause and handling incoming calls. Sound Quality Most importantly, Sennheiser gets the basics right, with sound quality that’s impressive for headphones costing less than $100. Cheaper headphones often struggle with bass, but the HD 400U – with a frequency response of 18–20kHz – handles the bouncing bass that opens Bad Guy by Billie Eilish with a big, firm thud that immediately gets your body swaying. The deep, reverberating bass pulse later in the track adds a sinister edge as Billie whispers, “you said she’s scared of me?” The USB-C cable supports lossless and high-res audio, and includes inline controls for music and voice calls. Sonova Consumer Hearing GmbH Crucially, the bass doesn’t overwhelm the rest of the mix. The finger snaps cut crisply through the bass and drums, while Billie’s whispered vocals retain a smooth, velvety tone. Switching to the sonic chaos of Planetary Go! by My Chemical Romance presents no problems either. It’s a dense track, with heavy rock guitars colliding with electronic keyboards, yet the HD 400U keeps each element clear and distinct. The chopping guitar riffs have real punch, while the fizzing EDM keyboards burst with energy. Should You Buy The Sennheiser HD 400U? If you need noise-cancellation or the flexibility of Bluetooth, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But if you simply want an affordable pair of wired headphones that delivers high-quality sound, the HD 400U offers excellent value for money. The lightweight, comfortable design also makes it a good option for long journeys – especially since the wired connection means there’s no battery to worry about.10:47 amSKStoreReviewController timing – when do you trigger in-app review prompts? | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingSKStoreReviewController timing – when do you trigger in-app review prompts?
Implementing SKStoreReviewController for a productivity app and looking for real-world experience on optimal trigger timing. Our planned approach: Trigger: After user completes a core action (task completion) Eligibility: 7+ days install, 15+ completed actions, 3+ sessions in 7 days, 90-day cooldown Native API (SKStoreReviewController on iOS, In-App Review API on Android) Questions: Anyone have data […]10:30 amYou won’t believe how much better the new Studio Display’s camera is
Macworld You’d be right to criticize the new Studio Display for its lackluster improvements over the old model. It was overpriced for what it offered in 2022, and the new 2026 model keeps the same price without changing the actual display panel at all. Yes, the four USB-C ports in the back are upgraded, now including two Thunderbolt 5 ports. And yes, the speakers are a little better—and still great compared to most monitor speakers and terrible compared to almost any dedicated speakers. But that hardly takes the sting off paying $1,599 for what is demonstrably decade-old LCD panel technology. The webcam, though…that got a huge boost. Look at the difference in low light between the old and new cameras. Original Studio Display (left) vs. new Studio Display (right) While low light performance is the most dramatic improvement, there’s still a major quality difference even when very well lit with a big key light. Original Studio Display (left) vs. new Studio Display (right) Of course, the new display doesn’t quite match the quality of using your iPhone as a webcam or the best dedicated webcams. You can get a much better image out of the 4K 60fps cameras from Logitech or Elgato. But the new webcam is more than serviceable; it’s actually quite good. But the new camera really highlights how bad the original model’s camera was. The difference is all the more dramatic since the old model had a really bad webcam that produced grainy and blotchy images and couldn’t seem to figure out proper white balance. Apple tried to fix it through firmware updates, but the truth was, it just wasn’t a very good camera. Now the Studio Display has a good camera. Unfortunately, the microphone array is still just okay, but it’ll serve you fine for simple video calls. If you want better voice quality, using AirPods or a dedicated mic is suggested. I produced a quick video to give you an idea of how it all compares in motion. @macworld.com Studio Display old vs. new webcam quality. The new model looks a LOT better! #apple #mac #studiodisplay ♬ original sound – Macworld – Macworld Note that the Studio Display XDR has the same camera, mics, and speakers as the new Studio Display, so you’ll get the same picture and sound out of the $3,299 model. As decent as the webcam is (finally), I’d like to see Apple take real leadership here, though. The next time Apple updates the Studio Display, it should use the same sensor as the iPhone selfie camera. The new square-sensor arrangement makes it easier to shoot landscape or vertical at full resolution (increasingly important for content creators), and it can handle 4K and 60fps with Dolby Vision while delivering superior detail, color, and contrast. The iPhone’s front camera is exactly what Apple should include in a monitor that costs $1,599 (or $3,299 for that matter)—and it’s certainly thick enough to handle it.10:22 amApple TV Claims First F1 Viewership Victory Over ESPN
Apple TV aired the first Formula 1 race of the 2026 season last weekend following an exclusive streaming rights partnership for five years, and Apple senior VP of services Eddy Cue is already calling it a win for the company. Cue told The Hollywood Reporter that viewership for last week's Australian Grand Prix was up year over year compared to the 2025 race, which aired on ESPN. "The 2026 Formula 1 season on Apple TV is off to a strong start, with fans responding positively and viewership up year over year for the first weekend, exceeding both F1 and Apple expectations," Cue said. As is typical for Apple TV, Cue declined to offer specific viewing figures, but we do know that last year's Australian GP garnered an averaged 1.1 million viewers for ESPN on its late-night time slot. Any increase in viewership over ESPN is a victory for Apple, and with U.S. races like Miami and Montreal coming up, the company is likely betting on more ratings improvements over the previous rights holder. F1 season access is included with every Apple TV subscription ($12.99 per month) in the United States. The partnership allows Apple TV to provide comprehensive coverage of Formula 1, including all practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. The Hollywood Reporter's full coverage of Apple TV and F1 is available to read online.Related Roundup: Apple TVBuyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)Related Forum: Apple TV and Home TheaterThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums09:53 amGoToAssist Corporate – Maintenance
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Mar 30, 06:00 - 08:00 UTCMar 13, 09:29 UTCScheduled - As part of our commitment to provide exceptional service and reliability to our customers, GoToAssist Corporate will be conducting service maintenance on the following date and time listed below. Our team will be taking all appropriate actions to minimize service interruptions during this event.Date and Time: March 30th, 2026, 06:00 AM to 8:00 AM UTCPurpose: This maintenance is to ensure and maintain system performance and stability.Duration: All maintenance will be performed within the 2 hours maintenance window.What to expect: Any customers who are utilizing the GoToAssist Corporate interface will experience a 2 hours period of downtime.During this downtime, Customers will be unable to start GoToAssist Corporate sessions or log into their accounts.In-flight sessions will not be affected.We would like to thank you for your patience and understanding during this time period.09:53 amRussia SMS Carrier Maintenance – Beeline
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Mar 17, 13:00 - 17:00 PDTMar 13, 02:24 PDTScheduled - The Beeline network in Russia is conducting a planned maintenance from 17 March 2026 at 13:00 PDT until 17 March 2026 at 17:00 PDT. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent delays delivering SMS to Beeline Russia handsets.09:52 amApplying for my first job, please critique my resume
I have been working hard for 2 years, both developing apps and researching. Now i need to apply for jobs for an internship, and i prepared my resume. And I appreciate any critique. My github: https://github.com/Canertsz https://preview.redd.it/5s8nsml3bsog1.png?width=1230&format=png&auto=webp&s=233e4dd195fdcac4d5d344a0769f94a2c6e89ad1 submitted by /u/Myweakside [link] [comments]09:43 amRate the screenshots of my app in AppStore
As many of you know, marketing is the hardest part. I feel like the screenshots I created for my app are not attracting installs. This is a simple clean up your camera roll app. Please critique my screenshots https://preview.redd.it/9o4r464n9sog1.png?width=2858&format=png&auto=webp&s=6c73e6f1325ad11cd580fd2757da6543d21be1da And this is what chat gpt generated as alternative, not sure if it's better https://preview.redd.it/cgnq06ds9sog1.png?width=1044&format=png&auto=webp&s=71d847bb0f13f6af0a792584f4a1adeffaad62dc https://preview.redd.it/8ag58hyv9sog1.png?width=1008&format=png&auto=webp&s=fffeaf97e7ab10964447aab9d911c1e00d44bcd2 […]09:08 amApple to Cut App Store Developer Fees in China From March 15
Apple has announced it is lowering App Store developer fees in China from March 15, with commission rates for standard in-app purchases (IAPs) set to change to 25%, down from 30%. In an update on its Developer blog, Apple also said the commission rate for qualifying IAPs under the App Store Small Business Program and Mini Apps Partner Program (and auto-renewals of IAP subscriptions after the first year) will be 12%, down from the current 15%. Apple said the changes are a result of "discussions with the Chinese regulator," indicating the move is to avoid regulatory intervention. A report last year revealed that China's antitrust watchdog, the State Administration for Market Regulation, was investigating Apple's app fees in the region. A similar change was recently made in Japan, where Apple lowered its commission to 21% on some third-party in-app payments, among other major changes, due to regulatory pressure. In its update today, Apple said that signing the updated terms by March 15 is not required "to receive the benefit of these commission rate changes starting that date." "We are committed to terms that remain fair and transparent to all developers, and to always offering competitive App Store rates to developers distributing apps in China that are no higher than overall rates in other markets," added Apple.Tags: App Store, ChinaThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums08:52 amIAH (Houston) on 2026-03-19
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Mar 19, 01:00 - 10:00 UTCMar 13, 08:38 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in IAH (Houston) datacenter on 2026-03-19 between 01:00 and 10:00 UTC.Traffic might be re-routed from this location, hence there is a possibility of a slight increase in latency during this maintenance window for end-users in the affected region. For PNI / CNI customers connecting with us in this location, please make sure you are expecting this traffic to fail over elsewhere during this maintenance window as network interfaces in this datacentre may become temporarily unavailable.You can now subscribe to these notifications via Cloudflare dashboard and receive these updates directly via email, PagerDuty and webhooks (based on your plan): https://developers.cloudflare.com/notifications/notification-available/#cloudflare-status.08:16 amApple’s cheapest MacBook might also be the easiest to repair
The MacBook Neo is possibly Apple's most repairable MacBook ever, featuring easy-to-access internals and modular components. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)08:00 amFinally go paperless with a scanner that fits in your pocket for only $26
Macworld TL;DR: iScanner is a pro-grade scanning and PDF editing app for mobile devices. Lifetime access is just $25.97 until April 12 (MSRP $199.90). Imagine tossing your bulky scanner and filing cabinet out the metaphorical window — because your phone can do it all. With this lifetime subscription to iScanner, snapping a photo turns into a professional-quality scan in seconds for a one-time $25.97. Receipts, contracts, textbooks, ID cards — you name it, iScanner handles it. AI-powered tools automatically detect edges, straighten pages, remove distortions, and even recognize text in over 20 languages. But this isn’t just a scanner. iScanner is a full PDF editor and file manager. Add signatures, blur sensitive info, mark up documents, merge files, split pages, or lock folders with a PIN. There are even scanning modes for math problems, measuring objects, and reading QR codes. Students, remote workers, and small business owners alike will love how simple it is to stay organized on the go. This one-time purchase unlocks features including 200MB of cloud storage, updates, and full ad-free access on iOS or Android. Grab lifetime access to iScanner today for $25.97 through April 12 and turn your phone into the scanner, editor, and document powerhouse you’ve always wanted. iScanner App: Lifetime SubscriptionSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.07:17 amCloudflare Dashboard and Cloudflare API service issues
Mar 13, 07:17 UTCInvestigating - Cloudflare is investigating intermittent issues with Cloudflare Dashboard and related APIs.These issues do not affect the serving of cached files via the Cloudflare CDN or other security features at the Cloudflare Edge.Customers using the Dashboard / Cloudflare APIs are impacted as requests might fail and/or errors may be displayed.05:43 amGoogle Maps navigation goes immersive with Gemini
Google Maps is becoming smarter with Gemini, with a new interactive and detailed Immersive Navigation view and Ask Maps features. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)03:17 amApple to cut App Store commission rates in China starting March 15
submitted by /u/NoDistribution4521 [link] [comments]02:53 amHow many of you have a personal company to release your apps under?
Hi guys, I was just curious how many of you created a personal company to release your apps under. I remember back in the early days of the App Store there were devs getting sued by patent trolls and the advice was to always release under a company. submitted by /u/SnowPudgy [link] […]02:31 amWant to feel bad? Read this SO post from 5 years ago: “What is considered an abnormal “In Review” time for App Store Connect (iOS) in 2021?” | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingWant to feel bad? Read this SO post from 5 years ago: “What is considered an abnormal “In Review” time for App Store Connect (iOS) in 2021?”
submitted by /u/aerial-ibis [link] [comments]02:25 amApple's App Store in China gets lower 25% commission to appease regulators
The controversial 30% App Store commission continues to be attacked by regulators worldwide. China is the latest region with a win, where Apple has pushed the rate down to 25%.Apple's new App Store commissions in China take effect on March 15Chinese regulators have been back and forth with Apple in recent years over the 30% App Store commission. The latest publicly known pressure occurred after President Trump slammed the country with seemingly random and outrageous tariffs in 2025.While nothing much else has happened in the public eye in the year since, Apple has announced a new commission rate via its developer blog. The new rates go into effect on March 15. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums01:44 amApple to cut App Store commission rates in China starting March 15
Apple announced tonight that due to regulatory discussions in China, developers will pay lower App Store commission rates starting March 15. Here are the details. more…01:00 amF1's debut race in the 2026 season beat everyone's expectations, even Apple's
Apple's senior VP of services, Eddy Cue, is happy to share that viewership of the Australian Grand Prix was higher on Apple TV versus ESPN in 2025, but that's as much detail as we can expect.The F1 streaming deal brings every race of the season to Apple TVIt's the first race of the 2026 season, but Apple is already out celebrating the turnout with F1. The ecosystem-wide push helped Apple in other areas too, like the Sports app seeing its biggest week ever.These revelations were shared by Services SVP Eddy Cue via Hollywood Reporter. The success can likely be attributed to Apple's significant marketing push and the popularity of the F1 movie. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums12:45 amEmerging Service Issue – LKE Enterprise – JP, OSA (Osaka)
Mar 13, 00:45 UTCInvestigating - Our team is investigating an emerging service issue affecting the deployment of new LKE Enterprise Clusters in JP, OSA (Osaka). We will share additional updates as we have more information.12:07 amMy series is complete, hope yall enjoyed it – Building a Full-Stack Swift App – From Navigation to Deployment | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingMy series is complete, hope yall enjoyed it – Building a Full-Stack Swift App – From Navigation to Deployment
Working on other series too in the meantime! submitted by /u/unpluggedcord [link] [comments]12:00 amIssue 745
How can you get your new blog started? If only there were some kind of directory to list it in. 🎯12:00 amIssue 746
Dubbbb Dubbbbbbbbbbbb! 🚀Thursday March 1211:53 pmDME (Moscow) on 2026-03-13
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Mar 13, 00:00 - 07:30 UTCMar 12, 23:30 UTCScheduled - We will be performing scheduled maintenance in DME (Moscow) datacenter on 2026-03-13 between 00:00 and 07:30 UTC.Traffic might be re-routed from this location, hence there is a possibility of a slight increase in latency during this maintenance window for end-users in the affected region. For PNI / CNI customers connecting with us in this location, please make sure you are expecting this traffic to fail over elsewhere during this maintenance window as network interfaces in this datacentre may become temporarily unavailable.You can now subscribe to these notifications via Cloudflare dashboard and receive these updates directly via email, PagerDuty and webhooks (based on your plan): https://developers.cloudflare.com/notifications/notification-available/#cloudflare-status.11:31 pmNetwork Performance Issues in Russia
Mar 12, 23:31 UTCUpdate - We are continuing to investigate this issue.Mar 12, 20:08 UTCInvestigating - Cloudflare is investigating issues with network performance in Russia. We are working to analyse and mitigate this problem. More updates to follow shortly.11:29 pmNew Local build error: “Browsing on the local area network for iPhone, which has previously reported preparation errors..” | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingNew Local build error: “Browsing on the local area network for iPhone, which has previously reported preparation errors..”
Two days ago the local build couldn't be verified, now I'm all of a sudden not being able to find my phone over wifi. anyone else having issues? works over cable but loses connection mid session sometimes when wired submitted by /u/draftkinginthenorth [link] [comments]11:15 pmAI Gateway
Mar 12, 23:15 UTCResolved - This incident has been resolved.Mar 12, 23:07 UTCMonitoring - A fix has been implemented and we are monitoring the results.Mar 12, 22:09 UTCInvestigating - Prepaid billing unable to purchase credits.11:05 pmApple TV scores its first F1 victory over ESPN viewership
Apple TV just landed its first F1 victory over ESPN. Eddy Cue says that last weekend’s Australian Grand Prix race saw more viewership on Apple TV than the same race received on ESPN a year ago. more…11:00 pmGoogle Chrome Is Finally Coming To ARM64 Linux
BrianFagioli writes: Google says it will finally release Chrome for ARM64 Linux in the second quarter of 2026, bringing the company's full browser to a platform that has existed for years without official support. Until now, Linux users running Arm hardware have largely relied on Chromium builds or unofficial packages if they wanted something close to Chrome. Google says the new build will include the same features found on other platforms, including Google account syncing, Chrome Web Store extensions, built-in translation, Safe Browsing protections, and Google Password Manager. The timing reflects how ARM hardware is becoming more common across the Linux ecosystem, from developer laptops to AI systems. Google also pointed to NVIDIA's DGX Spark, a compact AI supercomputing device built on the Grace Blackwell architecture, which will support installing Chrome through NVIDIA's package management tools. For many Linux users, the announcement feels like a "finally" moment, as ARM64 Linux systems have been widespread for years despite the absence of an official Chrome build. Read more of this story at Slashdot.10:59 pmGrab Amazon's first material discounts on M5 Pro & M5 Max MacBook Pros
After discounting the new M5 MacBook Air, Amazon is back today with deals on the brand-new M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro.Save on Apple's newest M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros - Image credit: AppleThe discounts can be found below, with units in stock and ready to ship. These are the brand-new configurations that were officially released yesterday, March 11.While the markdowns aren't extreme, they do reflect the lowest prices available on the retail models per our M5 Pro and M5 Max 14-inch MacBook Pro Price Guide and M5 Pro and M5 Max 16-inch MacBook Pro Price Guide. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums10:41 pmAnthropic's Claude Can Now Create Interactive Visuals Directly in Conversations
Anthropic's Claude chatbot has been updated with support for inline visual content that will help it provide clearer answers. Claude can now create custom visuals like charts, graphs, and diagrams. Visual content will be used when it better conveys an answer than plain text, and visual aids can also include real-world data like weather and recipes as long as web search is enabled. The visuals that Claude creates are distinct from Artifacts, and use HTML and SVG rather than image generation. Claude is able to display current weather conditions and forecasts when users ask about the weather in specific locations, and it can provide formatted recipe cards that are easier to follow than a block of text. Weather and recipe data are only available on the desktop for now, because those visuals do not render in the iOS app. Anthropic says that Claude is also able to ask structured questions using interactive multiple choice inputs instead of requiring users to type a response. Claude will use visuals when an answer calls for it, but users can also ask Claude to create a visual aid. Visual responses and interactive content are available to all Claude users.Tag: AnthropicThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums10:00 pmAdjustments to the China storefront of the App Store on iOS and iPadOS
Apple is making changes to the App Store in China following discussions with the Chinese regulator.As of March 15, 2026, changes will be made to the commission rates that apply to the China mainland storefront of the App Store on iOS and iPadOS.The commission rate for standard Apple In-App Purchase and paid app transactions will be 25%. Currently, the rate is 30%. The commission rate for qualifying Apple In-App Purchase transactions under the App Store Small Business Program and Mini Apps Partner Program, and for auto-renewals of Apple In-App Purchase subscriptions after the first year, will be 12%. Currently, the rate is 15%.Signing the updated terms by March 15 is not required to receive the benefit of these commission rate changes starting that date.We strive for iOS and iPadOS to be the best app ecosystem and a great business opportunity for developers in China. We are committed to terms that remain fair and transparent to all developers, and to always offering competitive App Store rates to developers distributing apps in China that are no higher than overall rates in other markets.The Apple Developer Program License Agreement has been revised to support updated policies. You can sign in to your account to accept the updated terms.Translations of the updated agreement will be available on Apple Developer website within one month.09:46 pmFormer Microsoft lead reviews the MacBook Neo: ‘It just has to stay excellent’
Steven Sinofsky, Microsoft’s former President of the Windows Division, published an interesting review of the MacBook Neo, where he also explores what went wrong with Microsoft’s own early push toward lightweight ARM-based PCs. Here’s what he said. more…09:46 pmFormer Microsoft lead reviews the MacBook Neo: ‘It just has to stay excellent’
Steven Sinofsky, Microsoft’s former President of the Windows Division, published an interesting review of the MacBook Neo, where he also explores what went wrong with Microsoft’s own early push toward lightweight ARM-based PCs. Here’s what he said. more…09:33 pmThis app adds MacBook Neo and iMac accent colors to any Mac
macOS includes device-specific accent color options for iMac and MacBook Neo. Any Mac can unlock these special color options, it turns out, with an app. more…09:33 pmThis app adds MacBook Neo and iMac accent colors to any Mac
macOS includes device-specific accent color options for iMac and MacBook Neo. Any Mac can unlock these special color options, it turns out, with an app. more…09:26 pm50 Years of Thinking Different
Tim Cook’s public letter celebrating Apple's 50th anniversary invokes the Think Different campaign, but the company’s recent actions—from Tahoe's controversial icons to App Store battles—don’t necessarily align with those ideals.Read original article09:00 pmApple's MacBook Neo Makes Repairs Easier, Cheaper Than Other MacBooks
Apple's new MacBook Neo is "easier to repair than other modern MacBooks," according to Ars Technica's Andrew Cunningham. It introduces a more repairable internal design that makes components like the battery and keyboard easier and cheaper to replace. An anonymous reader quotes an excerpt from the report: Replacements for pretty much any component in the Neo are simpler and involve fewer steps and tools than in the M5 MacBook Air. That includes the battery, which in the MacBook Air is attached to the chassis with multiple screws and adhesive strips but which in the Neo comes out relatively easily after you get some shielding and flex cables out of the way. But the most significant change in the Neo is that the keyboard is its own separate component. For essentially all modern MacBooks, going back at least as far as the late-2000s unibody aluminum MacBook designs, the keyboard has been integrated into the top part of the laptop case and is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to replace independently. [...] Apple hasn't yet listed MacBook Neo components in its parts store, but based on the repair prices it has announced, Neo components should cost quite a bit less than those for higher-end MacBooks. An out-of-warranty battery replacement for the Neo will cost $149, down from $199 for current Airs and $229 for current MacBook Pros; fixing accidental screen or external enclosure damage will cost AppleCare+ subscribers $49 for a Neo, down from $99 for other MacBooks. Read more of this story at Slashdot.08:53 pmIf I change the name of my app, can other apps use the old name outright? Do I lost the copyright immediately? | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingIf I change the name of my app, can other apps use the old name outright? Do I lost the copyright immediately?
I was thinking of changing my app name to see if it improves ASO. But, in the meantime, do I lost the copyright of the old name? Can other app use the old name of the app ? submitted by /u/rifat_monzur [link] [comments]08:43 pmiOS 26 added four new features I’ve been using almost every day
Major iPhone updates like iOS 26 typically come with hundreds of new features and changes, but a much smaller subset that become daily go-tos. Here are four new iOS 26 features I’ve found myself using just about every day. more…08:40 pmFix for Bot Management Cookie Issue with Cloudflare for SaaS (O2O) Deployments
Mar 12, 20:40 UTCResolved - Cloudflare is deploying a fix for a bug affecting customers using Bot Management with Cloudflare for SaaS origin-to-origin (O2O) configurations. These customers may have observed an issue where the __cf_bm cookie was repeatedly being reset on each O2O request. This occurred because the bot cookie code runs twice during O2O requests – once on the eyeball zone and once on the origin zone – causing the cookie to be overwritten due to a mismatch in origin and eyeball domains.A fix is being implemented to prevent the __cf_bm cookie from being set on the origin hop of O2O requests. This will allow eyeball zones to properly utilize session scoring functionality and improve cacheability for O2O requests. The fix is expected to be completed by March 16, 2026.08:28 pmDIRECTV app brings Sports Central to the iPhone and iPad
Sports Central isn’t just a part of DIRECTV on TVs anymore. This week, DIRECTV updated its iPhone and iPad app with an overhaul that brings the live sports hub feature to iOS. more…08:19 pmNew iPhone Fold details include rumored RAM, storage, and pricing
The iPhone Fold is coming this fall, and new rumors today outline what to expect from included RAM, storage, and pricing. more…08:10 pmIndia preparing fresh manufacturing incentives as Apple shifts more iPhone production
As India’s current phone manufacturing incentive program is about to expire, the country is planning fresh incentives to keep production growing. Here are the details. more…08:00 pmMacBook Neo teardown: Apple’s most repairable laptop ever?
An early MacBook Neo teardown highlights a very user-friendly internal design for an Apple laptop. The device, Apple's new budget-oriented… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.08:00 pmiPhone 17e Hands-On: What's New and What's Not
Apple's latest low-cost iPhone launched yesterday, and we picked up the iPhone 17e to see how it compares to the iPhone 16e that came before it, and how it measures up to the iPhone 17 lineup. Subscribe to the MacRumors YouTube channel for more videos. Apple didn't update the design of the iPhone 17e, so it still has the look of an iPhone 14, which is the iPhone that Apple used as a base for the iPhone 16e. There's a notch on the display with no Dynamic Island, but Apple did make a few changes to modernize the iPhone 17e. The iPhone 16e didn't have MagSafe, which was a major hassle, but the iPhone 17e does. MagSafe has been fully embraced by both Apple and accessory makers, so it's difficult to find accessories that don't use MagSafe. Adding MagSafe opens up a whole new range of options for cases and chargers, plus it means wireless charging is now 15W instead of 7.5W. There's still a limited color palette for the iPhone 17e, but there is a light pink model in addition to the black and white options this year. The soft pink is a subtle shade that looks nice in person, and it's not too Barbie pink or too baby pink. Ceramic Shield 2 is new for the front glass this year, meaning the iPhone 17e should be more resistant to scratches. Like the iPhone 17, the iPhone 17e uses the A19 chip, which is the latest A-series chip, though the iPhone 17e version has one fewer GPU core. The A19 offers incredible performance for a low-cost iPhone, but you might not notice much in the way of day-to-day speed improvements coming from an iPhone 16e. If you're coming from an older iPhone like an iPhone 8, X, XR, XS, 11, or similar, the difference will be night and day. Base storage has been upgraded to 256GB, and Apple doesn't offer a 128GB option anymore. There wasn't a change in starting price with the storage update, which is a major plus. The iPhone 17e has many of the same compromises as the iPhone 16e. There's still a single-lens rear camera with no Telephoto or Ultra Wide lens, there's a notch on the display, and it now lacks the 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate Apple added to the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup. If you don't mind having one camera lens to work with and won't miss ProMotion, the iPhone 17e is an excellent deal. It's priced starting at $599, which makes it $200 cheaper than the iPhone 17.Related Roundup: iPhone 17eBuyer's Guide: iPhone 17e (Buy Now)This article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums07:53 pmUnited States MMS Carrier Partner Maintenance
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Mar 30, 01:00 - 03:00 PDTMar 12, 12:40 PDTScheduled - Our MMS carrier partner in the United States is conducting a planned maintenance from 30 March 2026 at 01:00 PDT until 30 March 2026 at 03:00 PDT. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent delays delivering MMS to and from United States handsets via United States short codes.07:44 pmMacBook Neo review, Apple leadership changes, iPhone Fold rumors
Chance and Zac talk through changes to Apple’s leadership website and what they signal for the future. There’s also a pair of new Bloomberg reports focused on Apple’s delayed Siri smart display product, plus the looming iPhone Fold’s software interface. Finally, they go in-depth on MacBook Neo, discussing Chance’s review and answering some Ask9to5Mac questions. And in Happy Hour Plus, the pair do a check-in on Apple Vision Pro and whether there’s about to a big boom in gaming. Subscribe at 9to5mac.com/join. Sponsored by BenQ: Check out BenQ’s smarter displays made for how Mac users actually work and sign up for the giveaway here. Sponsored by Shopify: See less carts go abandoned and more sales. Sign up for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/happyhour. Sponsored by HelloFresh: America’s #1 meal kit! Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/happyhour10fm. more…07:30 pmHow to become better at design architecture
I often see posts that mention how AI is good at coding but not good at designing architecture or preventing security vulnerabilities. So how can I learn these concepts. As I am looking for my first full time job I want to try and have a deeper understanding of such concepts so that I can […]07:04 pmiPhone 17e hands-on: Apple finally got the entry level iPhone right [Video]
Apple has attempted for years to give us an entry-level and budget-minded iPhone. First, we had the iPhone 5c with all its vibrant colors, then we got the iPhone SE line, and then last year Apple introduced the iPhone 16e. But these iPhones always came with compromises that made them hard to recommend, like limited storage, key missing features like MagSafe, or outdated hardware. With the new iPhone 17e, I think Apple may have finally solved that problem. The iPhone 17e is Apple’s first true budget-friendly iPhone that is worth recommending to the masses. Here is what you should know. more…06:55 pmIndia plans fresh incentives for iPhone production in boost for Apple
India is preparing new incentives to support domestic manufacturing of mobile phones following the expiration this month of its… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.06:28 pmFirst MacBook Neo teardown praises ‘absolutely amazing’ repairability
Macworld Our reviewer calls it the perfect gateway Mac. But if that’s not enough to make you like the surprisingly affordable MacBook Neo, the first teardown of the device has revealed another factor in its favor: repairability. A new video from the Australian YouTube channel TECH RE-NU demonstrates what the presenter describes as a “speedrun disassembly” of the MacBook Neo, from unscrewing the bottom plate to removing the trackpad. Without appearing to rush in any way, the presenter achieves this in double-quick time, while praising the way that the Neo’s simple construction lends itself to disassembly and easy repair. When the speakers are popped out, they comment on the lack of sticky tabs. The battery lifts out easily (once the 18 screws are removed), and there’s no sticky adhesive. The audio jack is “nice and modular.” And while there is “a little bit” of adhesive on the trackpad, the presenter says that’s not the end of the world. Overall it’s a highly positive evaluation. “We’ve done this in less than 100 minutes,” they say, while a caption points out that it’s actually been six. “Which is absolutely amazing for an Apple laptop. I can’t say we’ve ever had a Mac that looks as repairable or as modular as this one. “It’s just super straightforward, elegant design. Apple has kept the costs down, [it’s] got the simplicity up, and that’s just meant a really repairable, very easy-to-open laptop.” As the presenter notes, Apple designers have not always been this kind to repairers. Last year the iPhone 16e was criticised by iFixit for the “terrible design” of its USB-C port, although other elements were received more favorably. A few years earlier the same site gave the iPhone 15 Pro Max a repairability score of just 4 out of 10 and complained about the company’s “ongoing constriction of repair freedoms through its restrictive parts pairing system.” And that’s before we even get into the “excruciating gauntlet of hurdles” presented by Apple’s self-repair program. The issue, generally, has been that Apple receives revenue if you get your devices repaired at an Apple Store or accredited partner, so the company is incentivised to gatekeep the process. On the other hand, public praise of a product’s repairability can only help sales, so perhaps the Neo will herald the start of a new Apple strategy in more way than one.06:24 pmM6 MacBook Pro: Six new features coming later this year
Apple has a new M6 MacBook Pro rumored to launch later this year with a total design overhaul. Here are six new features expected with the M6 MacBook Pro. more…06:00 pmGoogle Maps Adds Gemini AI-Powered 'Ask Maps' Feature and 3D Immersive Navigation
Google today added Gemini AI to Google Maps, enabling a new Ask Maps feature. Gemini in maps can answer complex, real-world questions that Google says "a map could never answer before." There is a new Ask Maps button where Google Maps users can get answers to specific questions like "is there a public tennis court with lights on that I can play at tonight?" Google says that finding information like that would have taken a lot of sifting through reviews in the past, but now Google Maps can provide an answer with a custom map. The feature can be used for trip planning, and it is able to provide tailored responses based on prior searches or saved information in the app. Google Maps can build a trip itinerary using information from more than 300 million places, including reviews from the Google community. Along with Ask Maps, Google also introduced Immersive Navigation, which Google says is the biggest update to driving in Google Maps in over a decade. There is a 3D view that displays buildings, overpasses, and terrain, and Google Maps will highlight important road details like lanes, crosswalks, traffic lights, and stop signs when providing directions. Google says that the app will have a new spatial understanding of the route that it's providing, which is made possible with Gemini models. Gemini analyzes real-world imagery from Street View and aerial photos to provide new details. The updated navigation provides a broader route view with more information about what's coming ahead, more details about tradeoffs with alternate routes, and route previews for planning parking and other actions. Ask Maps is rolling out in the U.S. and India on iOS and Android, with the feature set to expand to the desktop version of Google Maps soon. Immersive Navigation is rolling out in the U.S. today, though not all users will see it at first. Google says availability will expand over the coming months to eligible iOS and Android devices, plus CarPlay and Android Auto.Tags: Google, Google MapsThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums05:47 pmApple Grand Central retail store closed due to special activity
Apple Grand Central in New York City is closed today and tomorrow due to some sort of mysterious special activity. Customers visiting Apple’s retail location in Grand Central Terminal will be turned away until normal hours resume on Saturday, March 14, at 10 am. more…05:43 pmHomePod rumors: All we know about HomePod mini 2, HomePod Touch & HomePad hub
Macworld Apple’s HomePod lineup may be on the verge of its biggest shake-up since launch with multiple new products coming from Apple. Among the new products are: A long-awaited HomePod mini 2 update, with updated internals and new colors. This is expected to arrive first. A HomePod Touch, or a HomePod with a built-in display. This would be designed to address long-standing usability issues by offering a touchscreen alternative to Siri. An entirely new category of device: a HomePod-based smart hub, sometimes referred to as the HomePad or HomeHub, combining a speaker, display, and advanced home-control features. Security camera and other accessories are considered to be part of Apple’s smart home roadmap. In this article, we round up all the latest rumors and reports surrounding Apple’s three (or more) upcoming HomePod products, from expected release timelines and hardware upgrades to Apple Intelligence features and potential pricing, covering everything Apple may have planned for the future of its smart speakers and home hubs. HomePod mini 2: Rumors & release date Foundry Rumored release: Early-mid 2026 Possible changes: New red color, major processor upgrade, improved connectivity Apple introduced the original HomePod mini in November 2020, making it long overdue for an update. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman had indicated that a new HomePod mini could arrive toward the end of 2025. In an August 2025 newsletter, referencing Apple code that briefly appeared, and was then withdrawn, he wrote: “The findings corroborate a lot of what I’ve reported, including that fresh Apple TV and HomePod mini models will arrive this fall.” Obviously there was no new HomePod (or Apple TV) in 2025. But there could be soon. Current rumors point to an early 2026 release, with delays attributed to ongoing software development challenges related to Siri and Apple Intelligence. HomePod mini 2 Design New red color option rumored. In September 2025, Gurman reported that Apple had tested a new red color option for the HomePod mini 2. Beyond cosmetic changes, the update is expected to focus primarily on internal improvements. The overall design is likely to remain largely unchanged, but the internal hardware is expected to receive a meaningful refresh. The HomePod mini has not seen a hardware update since its debut, and Apple is reportedly keen to modernize it to support upcoming software features. HomePod mini 2 New Features & Specs The most consistent rumors point to a faster processor, improved connectivity and Apple Intelligence support. As Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman noted in August 2025: “We don’t know what, if anything, will be new with the speaker other than a faster chip, though Apple will likely keep the same design.” The expectation is that the new HomePod mini 2 will get a much faster chip, possibly the S9, S10 or even the S11 – all a big improvement on the current S5 chip. Wi-Fi 6E support is also expected, a notable upgrade from the current HomePod mini’s older Wi-Fi standard. Upgraded Ultra Wideband is also likely, which would improve interactions like Handoff (transferring the playing track between Apple devices). Additional rumored upgrades include: Apple Intelligence Support: The new model is expected to feature a chip capable of supporting Apple Intelligence, which would allow it to benefit from Apple’s upcoming AI-enhanced Siri. However, it’s not guaranteed that there will be support for Apple Intelligence and the upgraded Siri at launch. Improved Connectivity: Possible inclusion of Apple’s in-house N1 networking chip, potential Wi-Fi 6E support, and an upgraded U2 Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip for more seamless Handoff functionality. Audio Enhancements: Some reports indicate the speaker could receive upgraded drivers for better sound quality and potentially official support for spatial audio/Dolby Atmos, a feature currently restricted to the full-sized HomePod. See: Five upgrades the HomePod mini needs. Hardware Refinements: There is also speculation that Apple might introduce a removable power cable, similar to the 2nd-gen HomePod, to improve repairability. HomePod 3 with screen: Rumors & release date of HomePod Touch Foundry and Apple Possible launch: Delayed until fall 2026 Display size: Touchscreen 6 and 7-inches Software: Custom touchscreen operating system running apps like Weather, Calendar, Photos, HomeKit as well as Apple Music The HomePod mini has a larger sibling and even bigger things are rumored for that model. One of the HomePod’s biggest limitations is its reliance on Siri, which still struggles with complex commands. Many users end up controlling the speaker via their iPhone instead, which can be inconvenient and drain battery life. A built-in screen could provide a more direct and reliable way to interact with the device. There has long been speculation Apple is working on a HomePod with a built-in display, which could be called HomePod Touch. This device is expected to feature a 6-7-inch touchscreen that would allow the HomePod to function as a smart hub with apps and visuals in addition a smart speaker. This new HomePod would run homeOS or a similar touch-optimized UI for apps like Weather, Calendar, Photos, Apple Music, and HomeKit. Apple has been working redesigning the HomePod to include a display for some time. Back in March 2023, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed Apple would “unveil a redesigned HomePod featuring a 7-inch panel.” Kuo initially expected this product to arrive in the first half of 2024, but that timeline slipped. In December 2024, he reported further delays had pushined the launch to after WWDC 2025, citing software development challenges. Then, in March 2025, Kuo suggested the device had been delayed again, due to Apple Intelligence setbacks. Current speculation suggests a possible release in the later half of 2026, with the release slipping as the major updates to Siri and Apple’s AI platform have been further delayed. Alternatively, the HomePod Touch may gain AI related features as part of a later software update. HomePod with display incoming?Foundry HomePod Touch Features & Specs As with the HomePod mini 2, the touchscreen HomePod is expected to feature a chip capable of supporting the AI-enhanced Siri, but it will also need to support a custom touchscreen operating system, possibly derived from tvOS. Given the demands of such a touchscreen interface and advanced software, this would likely mean A-series or even M-series silicon, possibly an A17 Pro. Rather than just being a speaker with a screen, it is thought the device will be a central smart home controller with enhanced HomeKit and Matter device control, potentially rivalling Google Nest Hub and Amazon Echo Show devices. Other expected features include: Specs: Apple’s N1 networking chip, Wi-Fi 6E support, and an upgraded U2 Ultra Wideband chip for improved device handoff. Modular design: Some rumors point to a modular design, where a screen-based hub could magnetically dock onto a full-size HomePod speaker. This could allow the device to function as a stationary high-fidelity speaker while also supporting FaceTime calls and smart home management. Display: The display is widely rumored to measure around 7-inches, putting it in direct competition with smart displays from Amazon and Google. Amazon Echo Show beside the HomePod mini, Ben Patterson/Foundry HomePod Touch Design Unlike current HomePods, which rely on a small LED surface for controls and animations, this model is expected to feature a 7-inch full display capable of showing useful information and acting as a touchscreen control interface. Some time ago Swiss website Handy Abovergleich and designer Eric Huismann created a series of concept illustrations of how this new generation of HomePod could look. Here’s how they imagine the HomePod Show—a speaker with a camera and a small touchscreen—could look. Foundry However, this updated HomePod could offer a lot more than a screen to tap when you want to choose a playlist or skip a track. There are rumors that suggest putting a screen on HomePod could transform it into a new device entirely. HomePad smart hub: Rumors & release date for smart display with robot arm Possible launch: Late 2026 Strategy: Brand new category of products HomePad release date Apple’s first-ever smart home display had been rumored to launch in the spring of 2026, but it’s been delayed due to issues with Siri, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. He claims the hardware has been ready for some time, according to anonymous sources with knowledge of the matter. Another leaker, known as Kosutami, who has made accurate predictions in the past, posted on X on March 5 to predict: “Autumn. Home. Integrated with Pad. Now coming.” That somewhat cryptic post doesn’t necessarily refer to the HomePad, but it seems likely. What is the HomePad? Apple has reportedly been exploring a broader smart home strategy for years, and the HomePad could be its most ambitious step yet. As far back as April 2021, Mark Gurman described a high-end device combining a HomePod speaker, a touchscreen, and a camera mounted on a robotic arm that could follow the user around the room during video calls. Gurman has made various references to this over the years. Reports suggest Apple may be planning multiple smart home hub products, potentially split into two tiers: Low-end smart display (J490): A stationary device with an approximately 7-inch screen, designed for wall mounting or docking. It would focus on HomeKit control and FaceTime calls. High-end robotic hub (J595): A more advanced version featuring a display mounted on a robotic arm. This “Luxo Jr.-like” device could function as a videoconferencing system and home security tool, though it may not arrive until late 2026 or even 2027. A revamped, AI-powered Siri is expected to be central to the experience – and its ongoing development is widely believed to be the main reason these products have yet to launch. Imagen 3 (Gemini) HomePad Smart Hub Design, Features & Specs Speculation regarding the HomePad’s internal specifications and software capabilities includes: Processing Power: Internal code suggests the device, codenamed J490, may be powered by the A18 chip, which is capable of supporting advanced Apple Intelligence features. Operating System: The hub will likely run a version of TVos that incorporates iOS-like features. For instance, the inclusion of the “ChatKit” framework in recent software betas suggests the HomePad may support iMessage and texting, features not currently available on Apple TV or standard HomePods. Kitchen Integration: A new “CookingKit” framework and expanded food sections in Apple News indicate that kitchen assistance, such as searching for recipes by ingredient, could be a primary selling point. Entertainment: Beyond home control, the device is expected to function as an entertainment hub for streaming music and video, as well as making FaceTime calls via a built-in camera. Advanced Home Control: Code found in the iOS 26 Home app describes an “Adaptive Temperature” feature, which could allow the HomePad to offer more granular control over smart thermostats, including energy-saving optimizations based on local electricity rates. Camera: There are suggestions that the device could combines a HomePod with a camera, or place a camera on a robot arm. This camera could also be used to recognize gestures. Some years ago a patent was filed that related to a future HomePod that could interpret 3D hand gestures. That patent describes a HomePod that can “interpret three-dimensional hand gestures as a means of controlling the device so as to execute an action or function.” New HomePod Prices The current prices for the HomePods are as follows: HomePod: $299/£299 HomePod mini: $99/£99 We don’t expect prices to change for the existing configurations. The HomePod mini is likely to remain at the sub-$100 price point. However, a HomePod with a built-in screen could command a higher price. It may launch as a separate product altogether, potentially starting around $399 / £399, or higher, depending on features. What is on Apple’s Smart Home Roadmap Apple’s smart-home roadmap is expected to accelerate in 2026 and beyond, as the company expands its Home ecosystem with new hardware, AI features and services designed to compete with Amazon and Google. Ongoing: Apple continues to lean on the Matter standard to increase device compatibility. Updates like Matter 1.5 have added support for security cameras and energy management, which Apple is expected to integrate into the Home app. February 2026: On February 10, 2026, Apple ended support for its legacy HomeKit architecture. This transition removed the ability to use an iPad as a home hub, restricting that role to the Apple TV 4K or HomePod. Spring – mid 2026: Launch of new HomePod mini. Later in 2026: Apple intends to overhaul Siri. A completely redesigned, LLM-based Siri is expected to debut in early 2026 to power the new smart hubs. Previous delays in the smart home roadmap were largely attributed to Siri’s development “snags” September 2026: iOS 27 (expected September 2026) may include AI vision recognition, allowing cameras to recognize specific users and their actions to trigger automations while maintaining privacy. Fall 2026: Launch of Apple’s HomePad device. Other Smart Home products coming from Apple Apple Security Camera: Reports indicate Apple plans to enter the security camera market with its own hardware. Code discovered in iOS 26.2 includes a new “isFirstPartyAccessory” flag, suggesting support for Apple-branded cameras and doorbells that integrate deeply with the ecosystem.05:16 pmHELP: iOS App stuck in review/rejection
Hi everyone, We are looking for advice from people who have dealt with App Review edge cases like this. We got rejected under guideline 3.1.1, and it seems like the review team may not understand what type of app ours is. Our product is a platform, similar to Thinkific, Simplero, or Kajabi. We are not […]05:13 pmAmazon fire sale slashes $320 off this M4 MacBook Air
Macworld Apple MacBook Air M4, 15-inch View Deal Wow! Now that the M5 is here, we expected to see sales on the M4 Apple MacBook Air M4, but we didn’t know they’d be this good. Instead of getting it for $1,399, Amazon is selling the 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage for $1,079, the very best price we’ve ever seen for this laptop. The MacBook Air M4 is easily one of our favorite laptops, and the perfect 5-star rating we gave it is proof enough. We gave the MacBook Air our Editors’ Choice award, too, appreciating the fact that you can add two external 6K displays at 60Hz, the M4 performance, and the new 12MP Center Stage camera. The laptop is super speedy and will deliver a great performance whether you’re running work apps, editing videos, or running graphically intensive games. The 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display supports over one billion colors, which makes it an ideal pick for content creation and editing. The 18 hours of battery life will make it easier to stay productive and connected anywhere you may go without needing to plug in. The 15-inch MacBook Air M4 with 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage has a fantastic price right now, and you really shouldn’t miss out on the chance to get it ordered.05:01 pmReview: Apple TV’s ‘Imperfect Women’ is a gripping, near-flawless mystery thriller
Based on Araminta Hall’s novel of the same name, the new Apple TV limited series “Imperfect Women” examines a crime that shatters… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.05:00 pmGet an iPhone 17e on T-Mobile, no trade-in needed
The iPhone 17e is one of the best values in a smartphone, and T-Mobile will make it easy to upgrade, no trade-in required. Get the iPhone 17e on T-Mobile, plus Magenta Status and more.Get an iPhone 17e on T-Mobile - Image credit: AppleWhether your device is ready for an upgrade or you're just looking for something new, the iPhone 17e is a great choice. New and existing T-Mobile customers can get an iPhone 17e on them, plus access to perks, benefits, and special features.Get an iPhone 17e on T-Mobile Continue Reading on AppleInsider04:59 pmPSA: Neo won’t work with some MacBook USB-C hubs
Macworld While the MacBook Neo’s USB-C ports look the same as the Thunderbolt ports on a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, Apple’s new budget laptop won’t work with every USB-C hub on the market, including some of Macworld’s favorites. Since USB-C is forward- and backward-compatible, most single-port USB-C hubs work just fine with the Neo’s USB 3 port, even if they’re made for Thunderbolt or USB 4. However, some USB-C hubs—such as the Anker 547, Satechi Pro Hub Max, and Plugable AMS–5IN1E—take advantage of both of the MacBook’s side-by-side ports to supply both charging and data transfer by having a double-USB-C connector from hub to Mac. By using both ports, the bandwidth is not compromised by the need to supply power to the laptop, and they can attach neatly to the left side of the Mac without blocking any connections. Since the Neo’s USB-C ports are not equal–the rear USB 3 port boasts a data rate of 10Gbps while the front USB 2 port is really only fit for charging or attaching a low-data device such as a wired mouse or keyboard. As such, you need to make sure that you connect single-port hubs to the rear 10Gbps port on the Neo to get full speeds (Apple helpfully warns you if you try to connect something to the wrong Neo port). Those different ports are a bigger problem if the hub is not set up in the same formation. Take the Anker 547 USB-C Hub (7-in-2, for MacBook), a fine USB4 hub that adds seven ports, including a USB-C data port, two legacy USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and SD and microSD card slots. Anker On the MacBook Air and Pri, this hub uses the rear USB-C port for passthrough charging, and the other for downstream data/monitor and data transfer. Since the MacBook Neo’s rear port supports up to 10Gbps of data and the front port is limited to just 480Mbps, it’s simply not up to the task of fetching video data from the Neo or really doing much more—aside from charging—or supporting a connected wired mouse. Even the USB-A ports on most hubs are 10 times faster than the Neo’s second USB-C port can handle. Anker An example of an Anker hub that does work with the Neo is the Anker 555 USB-C Hub (above) that connects to the MacBook via a single USB-C connector. Satechi The Satechi Pro Hub Max (above) is also another dual-USB-C hub that’s not compatible with the MacBook Neo. Below you can see what each of the two USB-C connectors controls in the hub. Satechi Since only the rear port on the MacBook Neo supports video output, connecting the Pro Hub Max to the MacBook Neo won’t support HDMI, and the rest of the ports would also be significantly limited to USB 2.0 speeds. The Satechi OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter is an example of a hub that works with the Neo.Simon Jary Plugable told Macworld that it is awaiting the arrival of a MacBook Neo to test it with all of its devices, including its 5-port AMS–5IN1E hub. However, it expects the AMS-5IN1E will be limited in functionality when connected to the Neo. Plugable That hub’s left USB-C male connector is a direct “bridge” between the MacBook and the female USB-C port on the Neo. This means that the USB-C port on the AMS-5IN1E should behave exactly like the rear port on the MacBook Neo (that is, 10Gbps data, charging, and DisplayPort). However, the right USB-C male connector connects the other functionalities of the hub, which are the two USB 3.0 ports, audio jack, and Ethernet port. Plugable suspects that both the USB ports and Ethernet port will therefore be downgraded to USB 2.0 speeds. Presuming this is the case, Plugable believes that its hub will likely still be useful for lightweight port expansion on the Neo for users who want to connect a wired mouse and keyboard, but won’t live up to its full potential. An example of a Plugable hub that does work with the MacBook Neo is the 9-in-1 Plugable Multiport Adapter, pictured below showing its single USB-C connector. The 9-in-1 Plugable Multiport Adapter is a hub that connects to the MacBook via a single USB-C connector. Attach it to the Neo’s rear USB-C port and everything will be fine. Plugable The MacBook Neo should be fully capable of working with single male-connector USB-C hubs if they connect via the rear/left port on the Neo. Just avoid any hubs that feature two male connectors as they will fail on the lower-speed Neo port. Read our reviews of the best USB-C hubs for MacBook, as well as our MacBook Neo review. And to find more great gear that we think Neo owners should seriously consider, read our feature on the 10 essential accessories for the MacBook Neo.04:46 pmIncreased Error Rates in North America West
Mar 12, 16:46 UTCUpdate - We are continuing to investigate this issue.Mar 12, 16:45 UTCInvestigating - Users may experience increased error rates when interacting with Cloudflare services in the Seattle region.04:37 pmThose of you using AI to assist with development, what is your current setup? | Reddit on iOS ProgrammingThose of you using AI to assist with development, what is your current setup?
Hi All, Just looking what others are currently doing in terms of utilising AI for development. I’ve just canceled my cursor plan as I’m hitting the limits quite quickly and my initial thinking was to jump across to OpenAI to utilise codex (I was using this predominantly on cursor) either on its own desktop application […]04:33 pm9to5Mac Daily: March 12, 2026 – Foldable iPhone rumors, Apple 50
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 CardPointers: The best way to maximize your credit card rewards. 9to5Mac Daily listeners can exclusively save 30% and get a $100 Savings Card. more…04:30 pmHow to build app for iOS 18.6.2?
I'm trying to build an app to my iPhone which is on 18.6.2. When I try to build, it says 'Download Xcode support for iOS 26.2? – iOS 26.2 must be installed in order to run this scheme.' I've checked that minimum deployments is iOS 18, but it's still not working. Does anyone know what's […]04:29 pmI made a mockup tool for my marketing and showcase.
Hi guys. I frequently need to share feature demonstrations of my apps with my users and on social media. Simple screenshots often fail to capture the audience's interest, so I built a tool to help me create device mockups and video wrappers, which I've now released online. Mockup Studio The tool is free to use […]04:26 pmTim Cook salutes ‘the crazy ones’ ahead of Apple’s 50th anniversary
Macworld Apple isn’t done unveiling new stuff this month. Following the launch of the MacBook Neo, Apple has launched a new Instagram account, helloapple, that’s clearly timed to promote its new affordable laptop and other products to Gen Z and Gen Alpha. For one of its first posts, Apple has published a letter from Tim Cook titled “50 Years of Thinking Different.” Also on Apple.com, it marks Apple’s upcoming 50th anniversary on April 1 and celebrates Apple’s “people who think different.” View this post on Instagram The logo features Apple’s original rainbow of colors scribbled with an Apple Pencil, while the letter quotes from Apple’s iconic “Here’s to the crazy ones” text that fueled the Think Different ad campaign that ran from 1997-2002: If you’ve taught us anything, it’s that the people crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do. So here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. It ends with “Here’s to you,” followed by Tim Cook’s signature. The letter is another indication that Apple sees the MacBook Neo as the start of a new era. The new laptop, which went on sale Wednesday and sold out its initial run in most colors, joins a long line of Apple devices that changed the landscape both within and outside the company: iPod, iPhone, iMac, and new MacBook Neo. It’s unclear whether Apple has any new products planned for its 50th anniversary on April 1st, but it’s clear that Tim Cook and Apple are once again thinking differently.04:21 pmYes, you can run Parallels on a MacBook Neo, but you might not want to
The Parallels Desktop virtualization tool is confirmed to work on Apple's new MacBook Neo, but there are enough caveats to suggest that you'd be better off buying a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro instead.Apple's MacBook Neo works just fine with Parallels DesktopParallels Desktop has long been the go-to app for people who need to run virtualized machines on a Mac. It's a great way for people to use Windows apps without having to use a separate machine or switch entirely.With the release of the MacBook Neo, some had wondered whether its A18 Pro chip would be capable of running Parallels Desktop. The A18 Pro first debuted in the iPhone 16 Pro, and this is the first time a Mac has used an iPhone A-series chip. M-series chips are normally found in Apple's computers. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums04:15 pmApp Store Rejection
I got the following rejection after submitting my app for review: Issue Description We noticed that your promotional image to be displayed on the App Store does not sufficiently represent the associated promoted In-App Purchase and/or win back offer. Specifically, we found the following issue with your promotional image: – Your promotional image is the […]04:14 pmBest MacBook Neo deals: Where to buy Apple’s cheapest MacBook
Macworld Today’s best MacBook Neo deals right now These are the MacBook Neo recommendations we would confidently give to our own friends and family. They are based on the best prices right now at hundreds of resellers of Apple products. Today’s best MacBook Neo deals: U.S. Amazon, MacBook Neo, 512GB: £697, ($2 off, MSRP $699) – It’s only $2 off but you could get it in the next few days Best Buy, MacBook Neo, 256GB: $599 – Plus and Total members get a $25 bonus reward with purchase, there’s a longer wait for delivery though. Today’s best MacBook Neo deals: UK KRCS, MacBook Neo, 256GB: £549, (£50 off, RRP £599) You can already save £50, stock is limited though so you may have to wait Amazon, MacBook Neo, 256GB: £569.90, (£29 off, RRP £599) If you are a subscriber it’s hard to beat Amazon, delivery is just a few days. KRCS, MacBook Neo, 512GB: £649, (£50 off, RRP £699) You can already save £50, stock is limited though so you may have to wait The MacBook Neo is Apple’s new entry-level laptop, launched in March 2026 as the most affordable MacBook ever released. Starting at $599, it offers A18 Pro performance, a 13-inch display and up to 16 hours of battery life. If you want to buy one we can help you find the best price. Retailers sometimes offer discounts that can save you money, and we track all the Apple retailers constantly, so we always know who has the best price. In this guide we round up the best MacBook Neo deals available right now and let you know where to buy one for the lowest price. We also help you decide if the MacBook Neo is right for you and explain which model to choose. MacBook Neo: At a glance A18 Pro chip 8GB RAM 256GB or 512GB storage 13-inch Liquid Retina display Is the MacBook Neo worth buying? Foundry The MacBook Neo is ideal if you want the cheapest possible MacBook while still getting Apple’s macOS. Reasons to buy Affordable price Long battery life Lightweight design Reasons to skip Limited RAM options Fewer ports Less powerful than MacBook Air People are drawn to the MacBook Neo for several key reasons: Affordability: The primary draw is the breakthrough price point. At $599, it is $500 cheaper than the current M5 MacBook Air. This low entry price makes it a “golden ticket” for those who previously found MacBooks too expensive. Premium Design and Build Quality: Despite its budget label, the Neo maintains Apple’s high manufacturing standards. It features an all-aluminum chassis with no plastic parts, a rarity for laptops at this price range. As our reviewer noted, it feels just as premium as a MacBook Air, avoiding the “cheap” feel of competing plastic PCs. It also comes in a variety of vibrant colors, including Indigo, Blush (pink), Citrus (yellow-green), and Silver. Sufficient Performance for Everyday Tasks: While it uses a mobile-class processor, the A18 Pro’s efficiency allows it to handle general productivity with ease. You’ll be able to write documents, create spreadsheets, build presentations, visit websites, check email, manage your calendar, video conference with people, and a lot more with ease on the MacBook Neo Seamless Ecosystem Integration: For the billions of iPhone users, the Neo offers a low-cost way to access the Apple ecosystem. It supports native integrations like iPhone Mirroring, Universal Clipboard, and iCloud sync. It allows users to “go all-in” on Apple – combining a Neo, iPhone 17e, and Apple Watch SE – for a total cost significantly lower than previous years. Portability and Battery Life: At 2.7 pounds and 0.50 inches thick, the Neo is highly portable . While its battery life is lower than the Air or Pro models, it still offers up to 16 hours of video streaming or 11 hours of wireless web browsing, which is sufficient for a full day of school or general work. Who should buy MacBook Neo Students and Schools: The $499 education price makes it a direct competitor to Chromebooks in the K-12 and college markets. First-Time Mac Buyers: It serves as an affordable “gateway” for iPhone users who want seamless integration (iCloud, AirDrop, iMessage) without spending $1,000+. Casual Users: Grandparents or anyone whose primary activities are web browsing, social media, and video calls. Secondary Device Owners: Pro users who want a lightweight, inexpensive laptop for travel or vacations. Which MacBook Neo model should you buy? (256GB vs 512GB) Foundry The $599 Base Model Includes 256GB of storage Lacks Touch ID Best for students and light use The $699 Model: Includes 512GB storage Adds Touch ID Better for storage-heavy users Our recommendation: The 512GB MacBook Neo is the better buy for most people thanks to Touch ID and extra storage. MacBook Neo Limitations What features re missing from MacBook Neo? No MagSafe charging No Thunderbolt ports Base model no Touch ID No backlit keyboard Read about the MacBook Neo missing features. Should you buy MacBook Neo or MacBook Air? Eugen Wegmann The Neo is positioned as Apple’s entry-level MacBook below the MacBook Air. The 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models were recently updated with the M5 chip . They remain the top choice for most users because they balance performance, battery life, and a thin design MacBook Neo vs MacBook Air FeatureMacBook NeoMacBook AirStarting price$599$1,099ChipA18 ProM5RAM8GB16GBSSD256GB512GBBattery16 hours18 hoursScreen size13-inch13.6-inch and 15.3-inch Also consider: MacBook Air deals MacBook Pro deals Best accessories for MacBook Neo MacBook Neo guide and latest news Best place to buy the MacBook Neo The obvious place to buy a MacBook Neo is Apple, but it’s not necessarily the best. One benefit of buying from Apple is you could trade in your old Mac and get money off. We have an article explaining How to get money off with Apple’s trade-in program. Buying directly from Apple also means you’ll get: Full configuration options Trade-in discounts Student pricing However, Apple rarely discounts Macs, so if you are looking for the best price you need to look elsewhere. Our price comparison tables will show the best prices for the two MacBook Neo models right now: Apple, MacBook Neo, 256GB, MSRP: $599/£599 Retailer Price $599 View Deal $599 View Deal $599 View Deal $599 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple, MacBook Neo, 521GB, MSRP: $699/£699 Retailer Price $599 View Deal $599 View Deal $599 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Where to buy MacBook Neo Michael Simon / Foundry You can buy a MacBook Neo directly from Apple in the U.S. or at Apple U.K. You may, however, find a MacBook Neo in stock and discounted at one of these resellers. There are plenty of stores and Apple Premium Resellers around the world that offer discounts on new and old Macs, so it’s worth shopping around (read our Where to buy a Mac article for more advice). We also recommend the following resellers: U.S. retailers Want to buy a MacBook Neo from Apple? View the MacBook Neo in the Apple Store. Get an education discount: View the MacBook Neo in the Apple Education Store. View the MacBook Neo at Amazon. View the MacBook Neo at B&H Photo. View the MacBook Neo at Best Buy View the MacBook Neo at Walmart. You can find the MacBook Neo at Adorama. U.K. retailers If you want to buy a MacBook Neo from Apple: View the MacBook Neo in the Apple Store. Save money if you are a teacher or student: View the MacBook Neo in the Apple Education Store. Get a Mac from Amazon where we often see discounts: View the MacBook Air at Amazon. AO.com also offers discounts from time to time: View the MacBook Neo at AO.com You may find the MacBook Neo at Argos, although we only tend to see deals in conjunction with events like Black Friday. View the MacBook Neo at Currys. View the MacBook Neo at John Lewis. We often see discounts on the MacBook Neo at Laptops Direct. . You may also find discounts on the MacBook Neo at Very. U.K. Apple Authorised Resellers KRCS Insight iStore Select Western Computer Jigsaw MacBook Neo price: What you should pay The MacBook Neo starts at $599/£599, but deals can reduce the price depending on the retailer. Launch price: $599/£599 Good deal: $549-$579/£549-£579 Best seasonal deals: By Black Friday in November 2026 we could see prices drop to $529/£529 but we don’t expect them to go lower than that. MacBook Neo FAQ FAQ 1. When was the MacBook Neo released? March 2026. 2. What chip does it use? Apple A18 Pro. 3. Why does MacBook Neo use an iPhone chip? Apple uses an the A18 Pro chip, as first seen in the iPhone 16 for three main reasons: Price: Apple’s decision to use an iPhone-class processor in the MacBook Neo – specifically the A18 Pro – represents a strategic shift aimed at creating a high-quality, entry-level laptop at a breakthrough price point. Efficiency: Apple’s A-series chips are designed with the same fundamental architecture as the M-series Mac chips, making them uniquely suited for laptop tasks despite their mobile origins. This efficiency allows the Neo to handle everyday productivity – such as web browsing, streaming, and document editing – without the lag typically associated with budget Windows or ChromeOS devices. Supply Chain: Apple is able to capitalize on existing “economies of scale”. Because the chip was previously used in the iPhone 16 Pro, the manufacturing processes are mature and highly optimized and Apple is able to maintain better margins on a low-cost device than its competitors. The A18 Chip is adequate for the MacBook Neo’s intended market. 4. Which Mac chip is the A18 Pro comparable to? In our tests of the MacBook Neo the single core performance was faster than M3 and almost matched M4. In multi-core it was closer to M1. 5. Is it good for students? Yes – it’s designed as a low-cost Mac that is suitable for students. Apple has discounted price of $499/£499 for education. 6. Does MacBook Neo replace the MacBook Air? No, it sits below the Air in Apple’s lineup. 7. Is MacBook Neo worth it? MacBook Neo is widely considered an exceptional value for specific users, particularly students, first-time Mac buyers, and those with basic computing needs. Starting at $599, it is the most affordable laptop Apple has ever released, yet it maintains a premium all-aluminum design that reviewers say feels like a $1,000 machine.04:03 pmApple's MacBook Neo makes repairs easier and cheaper than other MacBooks
Neo is the first MacBook in a long time with an easily replaceable keyboard.03:55 pmNew Apple TV prestige thriller is coming next week, and reviews are in
Imperfect Women is a new Apple TV thriller series premiering next week, and the first reviews have just arrived. Here’s what reviewers are saying. more…03:51 pmThis great-looking MagSafe iPhone battery is built for life on the go [Review] ★★★★☆
The slim Twelve South PowerCapsule MagSafe power bank adds hours of battery life to your iPhone. We did hands-on testing. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)03:45 pmDeals: First cash discounts on M5 MacBook Air or $320 off M4 model, M5 MacBook Pro $200 off, AirPods 4, more | 9 to 5 MacDeals: First cash discounts on M5 MacBook Air or $320 off M4 model, M5 MacBook Pro $200 off, AirPods 4, more
In today’s 9to5toys Lunch Break we have the first cash discounts across the new M5 MacBook Air lineup at $50 off, alongside a giant deal on this M4 model at $320 off the original list price courtesy of Amazon. We also have $50 discounts on the M5 Pro MacBook lineup joined by $200 off several M5 MacBook Pro configurations as well as the ongoing discount on AirPods 4 with ANC, and more. Scope it all out below. more…03:31 pmToday in Apple history: Apple market cap breezes by Walmart
On March 12, 2010, Apple moved into third place among publicly listed U.S. companies. Soon the Apple market cap would hit the top. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)03:31 pmMacBook Neo is more repairable than any Apple laptop made in the last decade
Apple's new MacBook Neo design makes it startlingly quick and simple to repair, with Self Service Repair program instructions proving the point.MacBook Neo's keyboard is now easier to repairApple first announced its Self Service Repair program back in 2021, and it was really a case of doing it before being forced to by law. It's slowly expanded out, launching first for the iPhone in April 2022, and later expanding to Macs.Throughout, it's been criticized for being expensive and for making users go through hoops to get the work done. Now, though, Apple appears to be embracing the Right to Repair pressures it has faced, and do so both with the program, and with its designs. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums03:12 pmiPhone 17e vs. iPhone 16 Buyer's Guide: Which Low-Cost iPhone Should You Choose?
The iPhone 17e just joined the iPhone lineup. Apple continues to sell the iPhone 16 as an alternative low-cost option, and while the two devices share many core features, there are still more than 25 differences between them to be aware of. Following the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup and the iPhone Air, Apple discontinued the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, and reduced the price of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus by $100. The iPhone 17e and iPhone 16 now represent the two least expensive iPhone models available directly from Apple, with just $100 between them. To justify this price gap, the iPhone 17e misses out on features such as the Dynamic Island, an Ultra Wide camera, and several newer connectivity technologies. However, it still offers strong performance thanks to the newer A19 chip, the same main rear camera, and long battery life. Here's everything that's different: iPhone 17e (2026) iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus (2024) "Notch" Dynamic Island 6.1-inch display 6.1- or 6.7-inch display 800 nits max brightness (typical) 1,000 nits max brightness (typical) 1,200 nits peak brightness (HDR) 1,600 nits peak brightness (HDR) 2,000 nits peak brightness (outdoor) 1 nit minimum brightness Glass back Color-infused glass back Available in White, Black, and Soft Pink Available in White, Black, Ultramarine, Teal, and Pink Camera Control 12-megapixel Ultra Wide camera 1x or 2x optical zoom options 0.5x, 1x, or 2x optical zoom options Optical image stabilization Sensor-shift optical image stabilization Photographic Styles Latest-generation Photographic Styles Macro photography Spatial photos and videos Cinematic mode for recording videos with shallow depth of field (up to 4K Dolby Vision at 30 fps) Action mode A19 chip (N3P) A18 chip (N3E) 4.26 GHz CPU clock speed 4.04 GHz CPU clock speed 68.2 GB/s memory bandwidth 60 GB/s memory bandwidth 4-core GPU with Neural Accelerators 4-core GPU Apple C1X modem Qualcomm Snapdragon X75 modem mmWave 5G connectivity Wi‑Fi 6 connectivity Wi-Fi 7 connectivity Thread connectivity Ultra Wideband chip for Precision Finding 26-hour battery life 22 or 27-hour battery life 256GB or 512GB storage iPhone 16: 128GB iPhone 16 Plus: 128GB or 256GB Starts at $599 Starts at $699 At a markedly more accessible price point, the iPhone 17e will likely be the go-to iPhone for many customers, particularly those buying on a budget. Like its predecessor, it makes relatively few compromises compared to the standard model and still delivers most of the features that matter for everyday use. In fact, the iPhone 17e now offers noticeably better performance than the iPhone 16 thanks to its newer A19 chip, as well as strong battery life aided by Apple's efficient C1X modem. For many customers, the absence of an Ultra Wide camera, Camera Control, additional color options, and newer connectivity technologies such as Wi-Fi 7, Thread, and Ultra Wideband may not matter. The iPhone 17e also starts with more storage and costs $100 less than the iPhone 16, making it a compelling option for buyers who primarily care about performance, battery life, and overall value. However, the iPhone 16 still offers several advantages. Features like the Dynamic Island, a brighter display with higher peak brightness outdoors, an Ultra Wide camera with macro photography, Spatial photo and video capture, and a wider range of video features give it a significantly more capable camera system. Additional hardware such as the Ultra Wideband chip, Thread connectivity, mmWave 5G, and Wi-Fi 7 may also be important for users who want the most complete feature set. As a result, the decision between the two models is now less straightforward. Customers who want the best overall feature set, particularly when it comes to the camera and display, should consider the iPhone 16. On the other hand, those who prioritize performance, storage, battery life, and price will likely find the iPhone 17e to be the better value.Related Roundups: iPhone 16, iPhone 17eBuyer's Guide: iPhone 17e (Buy Now)Related Forum: iPhoneThis article, "" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums03:11 pmAsus exec: Apple’s MacBook Neo is a ‘shock to the entire market,’ tries tagging it as a ‘content consumption’ device | Mac Daily NewsAsus exec: Apple’s MacBook Neo is a ‘shock to the entire market,’ tries tagging it as a ‘content consumption’ device
Apple's $599 MacBook Neo has stunned lower-priced competitors, including Asus, peddler of plastic junk laptops. Priced $500 below… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.03:07 pm‘Immersive Navigation’ is the biggest Google Maps driving update in a decade
Google Maps is giving its driving experience the “biggest update in over a decade” with Immersive Navigation that redesigns visuals and offers “more intuitive guidance.” more…02:59 pmDisney+ is launching vertical video today, here’s how it works
Disney+ has announced it is rolling out vertical video to subscribers in the US today, with global rollouts to follow. Here are the details on Disney’s new ‘Verts’ feature. more…02:54 pmParallels shares update on MacBook Neo and running a Windows virtual machine
Last week, Parallels cautioned that its Parallels Desktop for Mac software was not yet tested for MacBook Neo. Following the release of Apple’s $599 laptop, Parallels is back with an update on virtual machine compatibility. more…02:53 pmRussia SMS Carrier Maintenance – MTS
THIS IS A SCHEDULED EVENT Mar 17, 20:00 - 21:30 PDTMar 12, 07:48 PDTScheduled - The MTS network in Russia is conducting a planned maintenance from 17 March 2026 at 20:00 PDT until 17 March 2026 at 21:30 PDT. During the maintenance window, there could be intermittent delays delivering SMS to MTS Russia handsets.02:53 pmApple turns 50: Tim Cook thanks users in heartfelt anniversary letter
As the company plans celebrations, Tim Cook posted an Apple 50th anniversary letter looking back with gratitude and ahead with excitement. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)Firehose II – Jobs, Deals, Apps
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