High-end robotic ‘HomeView Ultra’ could land in 2028 for $1,000
Macworld While we all wait for Apple’s HomeView smart home hub to ship, we’re reminded that Apple has been working on a larger, robotic version of it for years. A new report from The Information shares some details about the so-called “HomeView Ultra” (which has reportedly been floated but may or may not launch under that name). According to the report, this larger HomeView would have a roughly 9-inch display, giving it about 65 percent more screen area than the 7-inch display on the HomeView. It would be attached to its base via a robotic arm that somewhat resembles the iMac G4 or the Pixar lamp. It would feature cameras and sensors that make it aware of its environment, so it can do things like follow you around during a FaceTime call, turn on lights when someone enters a room, or even shoo the cat off the table. Apple published a research paper last year showing an R&D project for a robotic lamp with personality, and it’s enough to make you instantly want one. If the robotic HomeView similarly animates and moves as though it has a soul, it might even justify the estimated $1,000 price tag. The report claims that the device, code-named J595, will ship later next year at the earliest, or perhaps in 2028. Most telling is that the hardware has apparently been more or less complete for two years, but is waiting on the software to catch up. Also, there has apparently been some debate about which features should be in the 1st-generation device and which should wait for the 2nd-gen model. According to The Information, the autonomous AI features are ambitious and not ready yet, so the release timing is all about balancing the AI development with the first-generation feature set.

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Apple promotes Labrinth stream just ahead of OLED MacBook Pro release
Apple will be holding a special stream with musician Labrinth on November 4, in a "Live on Mac" performance.Special delivery for Labrinth - Image Credit: Apple/TikTokWhen you hear of Apple holding a stream with a musical artist, it's usually under the purview of Apple Music. However, one online event Apple is promoting seems to be all about the music creation process itself.In a TikTok post on November 2, a video shows a white box slid into frame, complete with the label "Do not touch until 11.04.26." A hand comes in from one side, scrawling "For Labrinth" on the top, before hauling it away. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Don’t worry, full-sized iPad fans, the model you want is geting an update soon
Macworld The announcement of the 8th-gen iPad mini last week included several major improvements on the previous model: a thinner and lighter design, a larger and brighter screen, dust and water resistance, and a big processor upgrade. As is often the case with Apple’s disjointed and confusing iPad range, however, this isolated update leaves the rest of the company’s tablets looking rather out of date. As the lineup currrenty stands, the baseline iPad has an A16, a full four chip generations behind the mini’s A20 Pro. It can’t run Apple Intelligence or Siri AI and looks thoroughly underpowered. The current iPad Air, meanwhile, costs $50 more than the mini but misses out on the latter’s OLED screen (and nano-texture finish), fast-charge capabilities, and new Acoustic Display feature… plus it’s nowhere near as slim. And the iPad Pro still has an M5 despite the M6 arriving for the MacBook and Mac mini. But there’s good news for prospective iPad customers, because those older models are reportedly headed towards their own refresh early next year. In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman predicts that Apple “will turn its attention to a slew of other tablet updates in 2027,” going on to specify that these updates will likely happen in the first half of the year. This means imminent new versions of all three non-mini iPad lines. Gurman offers little detail about the next edition of the baseline iPad, other than to note that recent price hikes have put it well above previously comparable rivals. To justify the pricing, one would imagine a significant boost to the device’s processing muscle is required, which would align with the most recent rumors. Gurman is more illuminating on the subject of the next iPad Air, which he expects to switch to OLED in order to match the iPad mini. That would presumably come with a $100 price hike as well, which would put some space between it and the iPad mini. The most compelling update, perhaps inevitably, will be the “faster” next generation of iPad Pro at the top of the range. “The big change on the high-end machine is likely to be the addition of a vapor chamber to cool things down during gaming and intensive AI tasks,” Gurman writes. The vapor chamber was one of the headline updates in the iPhone 17 Pro last year. The idea that it will make the move to the iPad Pro is a rumor, we should add, that’s been making the rounds since at least 2025. It isn’t clear how Apple plans to unveil the new iPads. The company has been known to hold a press event in the spring, with the last such event being held in May 2024 to announce the M4 iPad Pro. A reveal at WWDC 2027, which will take place in June, would technically count as the first half of the year, but WWDC usually focuses on software with minimal hardware discussion. Based on the events of last month, however, it may be more likely for Apple to announce the new models via smaller “experiences,” press releases, and quiet updates to its website.

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Hands on: HomePod mini 2 has promise, but is underwhelming right now
The new $149 HomePod mini 2 is finally available six years after the last model shopped. While it shows some promise, there's just not enough here yet.HomePod mini 2 has a few upgrades over the originalYou'd be hard-pressed to differentiate the new HomePod mini 2 from the original. Put the Midnight or white models side-by-side and they're indistinguishable.Physically, the only thing that sets them apart is the logo on the bottom. It's no longer printed, but is now molded into the rubber footing. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple captures 50% of consumer revenue of the top half of the S&P 500
Apple has become the sole major pure-play consumer company among the world’s largest firms. Comparing the top 20 companies by market cap… The post Apple captures 50% of consumer revenue of the top half of the S&P 500 appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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New MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR accessories: Here are five top picks
The new MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR arrives in stores this Friday. If you’re looking for accessories for the new MacBook Pro, here are our five top recommendations. more…

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X for iPhone and iPad just added over a dozen new app icon options
Since X was called Twitter, the iPhone and iPad app has supported changing the default app icon to something with a bit more flair. Today’s app update overhauls the alternative icon set with more than a dozen new options. more…

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Coming in 2027: Apple’s $1,000 home robot for FaceTime and switching on lights
Apple robot backed by CEO John Ternus may have hefty price tag and limited uses.

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Three new Apple iPads rumored for first half of 2027
Apple is preparing to refresh the bulk of its iPad lineup in the first half of 2027. The entry-level iPad, the iPad Air, and the iPad Pro are… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Unite Pro 1.8.1
Updates site-specific browser with fixes for failed app launches and improvements to its password manager. ($39.99 new, free update, 35 MB, macOS 15+)

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SoundSource 6.1.6
Updates the ARK audio plug-in to reduce latency, closes a security hole, and fixes audio glitches. ($49 new, free update, 57.3 MB, macOS 15+)

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Quicken Classic 9.3
Brings a variety of enhancements to the financial management app. ($83.88/$107.88/$149.88 annual subscription, free update, 3.2 MB, macOS 13+)

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Best MacBook for 2026: Air vs Pro vs Neo compared
Macworld Apple sells several MacBook models across different sizes, prices, and performance levels, so choosing the right one depends on your budget, the type of work you do, and how much power you actually need. In this in-depth guide, we explain which MacBook is best for different users, compare the latest MacBook Air, MacBook Neo and the MacBook Pro models (with and without touchscreen), and help you decide how much RAM and how much storage you really need. Choosing a MacBook Pro now involves two decisions: how much processing power you need, and which display you want. The entry-level 14-inch model uses the M6 chip, while more demanding users can choose M5 Pro or M5 Max configurations with either a non-touch Liquid Retina XDR display or a PROLED XDR OLED touchscreen. For most people, the MacBook Air remains our recommended starting point. If you need a Pro, choose the chip, memory and storage around your workload, then consider whether the touchscreen model’s OLED display and lighter design justify the extra cost. In this article, we’ll help you decide whether a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or MacBook Neo is the best fit for your needs. Which MacBook is right for you? In 2026, Apple’s laptop lineup spans five main choices: the budget-friendly MacBook Neo, the mainstream MacBook Air, the M6 MacBook Pro, the high-performance M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro and the touchscreen versions of those MacBook Pro models. Best for basic use and tight budgets: MacBook Neo is ideal for students, casual browsing, streaming, and light productivity at the lowest entry price. Best for most people: MacBook Air (M5)
 offers the best mix of portability, battery life, silent operation, and everyday performance. Best for those who want a superior display and extra ports: The MacBook Pro (M6) offers professional-grade features without the extreme power of the M5 Pro or M5 Max chips. Best for professionals and power users: MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) is best for demanding workflows such as 4K video editing, 3D work, heavy multitasking, and software development. Best for high-end creative professionals: Suited to those who work extensively on their laptop’s built-in display and need direct touch interaction. Use the table below to quickly find the MacBook that best suit your needs, or read on for more detailed guide to help you choose the best MacBook for your specific needs. ModelBest ForScreen sizesStarting PriceBuyMacBook NeoStudents, casual users, and first-time buyers.13-inch$699 Amazon / AppleMacBook Air (M5)Most people: everyday performance and portability.13.6-inch or 15.3-inch$1,299 / $1,499Amazon / AppleMacBook Pro (M6)A better display, more ports, and sustained performance.14.2-inch$1,999Amazon / AppleMacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max)Demanding creative work, development, and heavier workloads.14.2-inch or 16.2-inch$2,499 / $4,099 Amazon / AppleTouchscreen MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max)High-end creative professionals who need OLED and touch interaction.14.2-inch or 16.3-inch$2,899 / $4,499 Amazon / Apple The best Mac for various use cases. If you’re also wondering whether it’s the right time to buy, read our guide: Should you buy the MacBook Air now or wait? Which MacBook is best in 2026 Below we recommend the best MacBooks for various users, from students and every day users, to professionals, creatives and content creators. We also compare MacBook Air or MacBook Pro for those wondering which model to buy. Below this section you can find general advice about choosing the best specs, including screen size, when purchasing a new Mac. Apple 13-inch/15-inch MacBook Air (M5, 2026) – Best MacBook for most people Price When Reviewed: From $1,299 (was $1,099) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1,149 View Deal $1149 View Deal $1244.28 View Deal $1297 View Deal $1299 View Deal $1299 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The MacBook Air (M5) is the best MacBook for most buyers because it offers the strongest balance of price, portability, battery life, and performance. The 13-inch MacBook Air is light, quiet, fast enough for everyday work, and easier to recommend than any other Mac laptop. The latest version, updated in March 2026, keeps the same winning formula while improving storage and connectivity. There is also a 15-inch version for anyone who wants a larger screen. What’s newThe latest MacBook Air features the M5 chip, base storage is 512GB, and it supports newer wireless standards including Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Why we recommend the MacBook Air Excellent balance of performance and portability Silent fanless design Long battery life Strong everyday performance for work, school, and travel Now ships with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage as standard SizesThe MacBook Air comes in two sizes: 13-inch MacBook Air, 13.6-inch screen: Best for portability 15-inch MacBook Air, 15.3-inch screen: Better for multitasking and split-screen work DisplayAs you can see from the above measurements, the display, when measured diagonally is a little larger than the standard naming would suggest. As a result the 13-inch MacBook Air display is actually larger than that on the 13-inch MacBook Neo, discussed below. The MacBook Air uses a bright Liquid Retina display, but it still lacks the 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate and HDR capabilities found on MacBook Pro models. PerformanceThe M5 chip in the MacBook Air is fast enough for office work, school tasks, web apps, multitasking, and light creative work. Because the Air has no fan, though, performance can dip during long video exports or other sustained heavy workloads so that the temperature remains optimal. Battery lifeBattery life is excellent, making the Air a great choice for anyone who works away from a desk. It offers more battery life than the budget-friendly MacBook Neo, but falls short of the 14-inch MacBook Pro. Other specsYou get MagSafe 3 for charging and two Thunderbolt 4 ports. The MacBook Air also supports up to two external displays. (Older M1 and M2 models were limited to one external monitor). 16GB RAM to 32GB RAM From 512GB to 4TB SSD Price Apple put MacBook Air prices up by $200 in June 2026. 13-inch MacBook Air: Now starts at $1,299/£1,299 15-inch MacBook Air: Now starts at $1,499/£1,499 What to know before buyingThe Air’s biggest limitation is sustained performance. It is quick for most tasks, but it is not the right machine for users who regularly push their system for long periods. The MacBook Air is likely to soon adopt the M6 chip as used in the entry-level MacBook Pro, Mac mini and iMac. Read our full Apple 13-inch MacBook Air (M5, 2026) review Apple MacBook Neo – Best budget MacBook Price When Reviewed: $699 (was $599) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $681.11 View Deal $689 View Deal $697 View Deal $699 View Deal $799.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The MacBook Neo is the cheapest way to buy a Mac laptop in 2026. Now starting at $699 (which is unfortunately $100 more than it was when Apple launched it in March), it is aimed at students, first-time Mac buyers, and casual users who mainly browse the web, stream video, join video calls, and work in basic apps. Despite its lower price, it still looks and feels like a MacBook, with an all-aluminum design and a lightweight chassis. Who is MacBook Neo for?The MacBook Neo is best for people whose computing needs are simple: web browsing, email, documents, streaming, and schoolwork. Why we recommend MacBook Neo Lowest price in the lineup Light and portable Quiet fanless design Good battery life Fast enough for basic everyday use SizesThe MacBook Neo comes in just one size: 13-inch MacBook Neo, 13-inch screen Display Like the MacBook Air the MacBook Neo offers a Liquid Retina display with max 500 nits brightness, but that’s where the similarities end. The display is slightly smaller than the display on the 13-inch MacBook Air, offering 2,408 by 1,506 pixels compared to 2,560 by 1,664 pixels. It also lacks the wide color P3 and True Tone technology of the other MacBooks, offering only sRGB color. Performance The MacBook Neo is powered by the A18 Pro chip – the same processor first introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro. While it is a mobile-class chip, its performance is optimized for a laptop environment, offering a highly responsive experience for everyday productivity. In our tests it proved faster than the M3 in single-core, while equal to the M1 when it came to multi-core performance and graphics. Battery life The MacBook Neo should comfortably last a working day of general productivity. In our video-loop battery test, with screen brightness set to 150 nits, it lasted 13 hours and 15 minutes. Apple advertises up to 16 hours of video streaming or 11 hours of wireless web browsing. More demanding tasks will drain the battery faster. Other specsYou get two USB-C ports, but these are not identical in capability, one being USB 3 and the other USB 2. See MacBook Neo ports explained. The MacBook Neo only supports one external display with a resolution of up to 4K at 60Hz. 8GB RAM 256GB or 512GB SSD Price Starts at $699/£699 Education pricing is now $649/£649 What to know before buyingThe Neo makes several trade-offs to achieve its low price, including the absence of a backlit keyboard, a limited selection of ports, and no Touch ID on the base model. It also features a lower-quality display compared to the Air and Pro, offers less memory with a maximum of 8GB RAM, and delivers lower sustained performance than M-series MacBooks. For many buyers, the 512GB, $799 model represents better value, as it includes Touch ID and additional storage. AlternativesThe MacBook Neo is the best budget MacBook, but it is best suited to light workloads. If you can spend more, the MacBook Air remains the better long-term buy for most people. Another option, if a low price is your top priority, is a refurbished MacBook. Look out for clearance deals on older Apple silicon MacBooks, but avoid the older Intel-based models. See: MacBook Pro deals and MacBook Air deals. Read our full Apple MacBook Neo review Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M6, 2026) – Best step up from the MacBook Air Price When Reviewed: $1,999 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro is worth considering if you want more features than the MacBook Air offers without paying for an M5 Pro or M5 Max. Its active cooling suits longer workloads, while its HDR display and additional ports are useful for creative work. Why we recommend the M6 MacBook Pro Active cooling for sustained workloads ProMotion and HDR display HDMI and an SDXC card slot Lower starting price than the Pro and Max models Sizes The M6 model comes in one size: a 14.2-inch screen. Display The non-touch Liquid Retina XDR display uses mini-LED technology, with up to 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness and adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Performance The M6 has a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU. Choose it for everyday work and creative projects; consider M5 Pro or M5 Max configurations when you need greater graphics or memory capacity. Battery life Apple rates it for up to 24 hours of video streaming or 16 hours of wireless web browsing. Actual endurance depends on your workload. Other specs 16GB, 24GB or 32GB unified memory 1TB, 2TB or 4TB SSD Three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe and headphone jack Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 Price Starts at $1,999/£1,999. What to know before buying Compare an Air with matching memory and storage before buying. Choose the Pro if its display, connections and cooling justify the premium. For OLED and touch, you’ll need a PROLED XDR model. Apple 14-inch/16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/M5 Max, non-touchscreen, 2026) – Best for professional performance Price When Reviewed: $2,499 (was £2,199) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $2,289 View Deal $2289 View Deal $2299 View Deal $2317.47 View Deal $2499 View Deal $2499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices If you regularly edit high-resolution video, compile large code projects or run demanding professional software, the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro or M5 Max offers more performance and memory capacity than the MacBook Air. These non-touchscreen models are particularly worth considering if processing power matters more than OLED or touchscreen input. They offer the same chip options as the PROLED XDR versions at a lower starting price. Why we recommend the non-touchscreen MacBook Pro Active cooling for demanding sustained workloads Powerful CPU and GPU configurations Bright mini-LED display with ProMotion and HDR Thunderbolt 5, HDMI and an SDXC card slot Lower price than equivalent touchscreen models Sizes There are two sizes to choose from: 14-inch MacBook Pro, 14.2-inch screen: Easier to carry between locations. 16-inch MacBook Pro, 16.2-inch screen: More room for timelines, tool palettes and side-by-side apps. Display Both sizes feature a non-touch Liquid Retina XDR display. The mini-LED panel offers up to 1,000 nits sustained full-screen XDR brightness, 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness, P3 wide color and ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Performance There are two chip families to choose from: M5 Pro: The sensible starting point for demanding photo editing, software development, video editing and heavier multitasking. M5 Max: Worth considering for complex 3D work, high-end video production and workloads requiring more GPU power or memory. M5 Pro configurations offer up to an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU. M5 Max has an 18-core CPU and a choice of 32-core or 40-core GPU. Battery life Apple’s video-streaming ratings vary by size and chip: 14-inch M5 Pro: Up to 22 hours. 14-inch M5 Max: Up to 20 hours. 16-inch M5 Pro: Up to 24 hours. 16-inch M5 Max: Up to 22 hours. These are Apple’s ratings; demanding professional workloads will reduce battery life. Other specs M5 Pro: From 24GB to 64GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 1TB to 4TB SSD. M5 Max: From 36GB to 128GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 2TB to 8TB SSD. Three Thunderbolt 5 ports, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe and a headphone jack. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Price Starting prices are: 14-inch M5 Pro: $2,499/£2,499. 16-inch M5 Pro: $2,999/£2,999. 14-inch M5 Max: $4,099/£4,099. 16-inch M5 Max: $4,399/£4,399. What to know before buying These models are a strong choice if you want Pro or Max performance while keeping costs down, especially if you mainly use an external monitor. Compare retailer discounts with the touchscreen versions: the difference may exceed their $400/£400 starting-price premium. Choose memory carefully because it cannot be upgraded later. The maximum memory capacity also depends on the chip configuration. Apple 14-inch/16-inch MacBook Pro PROLED XDR (M5 Pro/M5 Max, touchscreen 2026) – Best for OLED and touch Price When Reviewed: $2,899 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $2,899 View Deal $2899 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR Display combines M5 Pro or M5 Max performance with an OLED touchscreen and a thinner, lighter design. It is worth considering if you spend much of your working day using your laptop’s built-in screen. The premium buys display and design improvements rather than a newer processor generation. Equivalent non-touchscreen models retain the same M5 Pro and M5 Max chip options. Why we recommend considering the touchscreen MacBook Pro Tandem OLED display with P3 and Adobe RGB color support Direct touchscreen input alongside the keyboard and trackpad Lighter design than equivalent non-touchscreen models ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz Up to 16TB of storage with M5 Max Sizes There are two sizes to choose from: 14-inch MacBook Pro, 14.2-inch screen: The more portable option, starting at 1.38kg. 16-inch MacBook Pro, 16.3-inch screen: More workspace for creative apps, starting at 1.82kg. Display Both sizes feature a tandem OLED PROLED XDR touchscreen. Apple specifies up to 1,000 nits sustained full-screen brightness and 2,000 nits peak brightness for HDR content and outdoor SDR use. The display supports P3 and Adobe RGB color, True Tone and ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Dynamic Island replaces the notch. Touch adds another way to scroll, zoom and interact with content while retaining the built-in keyboard and Force Touch trackpad. Performance Choose between the same chip families offered in the non-touchscreen professional models: M5 Pro: Suitable for demanding photo editing, software development, video editing and heavier multitasking. M5 Max: For more intensive graphics, high-end video production, 3D work and workloads requiring larger memory configurations. Choose the chip around your workload, then decide whether the display and lighter design justify the extra cost. Battery life Apple advertises the same video-streaming endurance as equivalent non-touchscreen models: 14-inch M5 Pro: Up to 22 hours. 14-inch M5 Max: Up to 20 hours. 16-inch M5 Pro: Up to 24 hours. 16-inch M5 Max: Up to 22 hours. These figures are Apple’s ratings, rather than our independent test results. Other specs M5 Pro: From 24GB to 64GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 1TB to 4TB SSD. M5 Max: From 36GB to 128GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 2TB to 16TB SSD. Three Thunderbolt 5 ports, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe and a headphone jack. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Price Starting prices are: 14-inch M5 Pro: $2,899/£2,899. 16-inch M5 Pro: $3,399/£3,399. 14-inch M5 Max: $4,499/£4,499. 16-inch M5 Max: $4,799/£4,799. Each starts at $400/£400 more than its equivalent non-touchscreen model. What to know before buying The combination of OLED, touch and reduced weight may justify the premium if you regularly work on the built-in screen. If you mainly use an external monitor, a non-touchscreen model could offer better value. Our recommendation remains provisional pending independent testing of display quality, touch controls, app support and everyday usability. MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Which should you buy? The M5 MacBook Air and M6 MacBook Pro are different in some significant ways.Foundry The MacBook Air is our recommendation for most people, offering enough performance for everyday work and light creative projects in a thin, light, silent design. Choose the MacBook Pro if you regularly run demanding workloads or will benefit from its better display and additional ports. The closest comparison is between the M5 MacBook Air and 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro. For more demanding professional work, the MacBook Pro also offers M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, with a choice of non-touchscreen or PROLED XDR touchscreen displays. Performance: Do you need a MacBook Pro? The M5 MacBook Air is well suited to web browsing, office apps, studying, photo editing, and occasional video projects. Using creative software doesn’t automatically mean you need a Pro: the size of your projects and how frequently you run demanding tasks matter more. The M6 MacBook Pro combines a newer chip generation with active cooling. Its fans help it sustain performance during lengthy video exports, code compilation, and other intensive tasks. The Air’s fanless design keeps it completely silent, but performance can fall during prolonged heavy workloads. If these demanding tasks make up much of your working day, consider an M5 Pro or M5 Max MacBook Pro. These offer greater processing, graphics, and memory capacity than the standard M6 model. A newer chip generation doesn’t automatically make the M6 the more powerful choice. Display and ports: What does the Pro add? The MacBook Air’s Liquid Retina display is suitable for everyday work, with 500 nits brightness and a 60Hz refresh rate. You can choose a 13-inch model for portability or a 15-inch model for more workspace. The M6 MacBook Pro’s 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display adds mini-LED technology, deeper contrast, brighter HDR highlights, and ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. These features are particularly useful for viewing and editing HDR content, although you don’t need to be a creative professional to appreciate the screen. The M6 Pro also provides three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, and an SDXC card slot. The Air has two Thunderbolt 4 ports, so connecting memory cards, HDMI displays, or several accessories may require adapters or a dock. For an OLED touchscreen, choose a PROLED XDR MacBook Pro with an M5 Pro or M5 Max chip. Touchscreen availability is a separate consideration from how much processing power you need. Portability, battery life, and price The Air is thinner and lighter, making it the stronger choice if you carry your laptop regularly. The 15-inch Air is also worth considering if you want a larger screen without the weight and expense of a 16-inch Pro. The M6 MacBook Pro has a higher advertised battery-life rating, although actual endurance depends on your workload. Both models are suitable for working away from a power socket. The Air costs less, but compare configurations with matching memory and storage before deciding. The M6 Pro starts with more storage, which narrows the price difference if you would otherwise upgrade the Air. Our buying advice: Air or Pro? Buy the MacBook Air for everyday work, studying, travel, and light creative projects. It offers the best balance of performance, portability, and price for most buyers. Buy the M6 MacBook Pro if you want its HDR display, additional ports, longer advertised battery life, or better sustained performance. Choose an M5 Pro or M5 Max MacBook Pro for demanding professional workloads that justify more processing power, graphics performance, or memory. Consider the PROLED XDR version if you also want OLED and touch. The table below compares the M5 MacBook Air with the entry-level M6 MacBook Pro: FeatureMacBook Air, M5MacBook Pro, M6Starting Price$1,299$1,999Display13.6″ or 15.3″ Liquid Retina (500 nits)14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR; 1,600 nits peak HDR, ProMotion up to 120HzProcessorM5M6Battery LifeUp to 18 hoursUp to 24 hoursPorts2x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe3× Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafeCooling FanlessActive coolingSSD512GB–4TB1TB–4TBRAM16GB–32GB16GB–32GB Comparing the MacBook Air and entry-level MacBook Pro. Best MacBook for specialist cases Not everyone will fit into one of the categories we have addressed above. If you work in the creative industries, development, machine learning, or software engineering, or other high performance use, we’ll address the best MacBook for you next. Best MacBook for video editing: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (non-touchscreen, M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,499 (was £2,199) Best Prices Today: $2,289 at Amazon | $2289 at B&H | $2299 at Best Buy US The MacBook Pro is the best MacBook for video editing and creative work, especially if you regularly work with large files, high-resolution footage, or GPU-heavy apps. These models are built for demanding workflows and offer the sustained performance, display quality, memory headroom, and connectivity that creative professionals need. The following are reasons why creatives choose the MacBook Pro: Active cooling for long renders Stronger GPU performance Higher RAM ceiling Better display for color-critical work Better external monitor support Runs: Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve and more Best MacBook for creative professionals: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (touchscreen, M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro PROLED XDR (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,899 Best Prices Today: $2,899 at Amazon | $2899 at Apple Photographers, video editors, and designers who rely on color accuracy and contrast will see the most benefit from the PROLED XDR display. Best MacBook for developers: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,499 (was £2,199) Best Prices Today: $2,289 at Amazon | $2289 at B&H | $2299 at Best Buy US For professional developers, the MacBook Pro remains the strongest option. It is better suited to large codebases, longer compile times, virtualization, multiple displays, and heavier sustained workloads. It offers a good balance of price and performance for most engineers. The following are reasons why developers choose the MacBook Pro: Better thermal management for long build sessions More RAM options Better support for external displays More overhead for containers, emulators, and heavier dev tools Best MacBook for heavy workloads: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Max) The M5 Max chip is best for AI development, complex simulations, or users who need the highest memory ceiling. We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro PROLED XDR (M5 Max, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $4,499 Best Prices Today: $4499 at Apple Best MacBook for gamers: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,999 (Was $2,699) Best Prices Today: $2749 at B&H | $2,751 at Amazon | $2999 at Best Buy US While Windows PCs still hold a performance lead in raw frames per second, Apple Silicon has made high-end gaming a viable reality on macOS, particularly with the latest Pro and Max models. The M5 Pro MacBook Pro, updated in March 2026, strikes a balance for those who need “oomph” for gaming without the extreme price tag of the M5 Max version of the MacBook Pro. It includes Thunderbolt 5 ports for high-speed data transfer and supports more unified memory than the base M5. It is specifically recommended for “serious gaming” and moderate media production. The M5 Pro model lacks the massive GPU core count of the Max chip, meaning it may struggle with the highest settings on the most demanding AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077. In our real-world gaming benchmarks, it provides “good results” for Mac users, even if it still faces a gap compared to dedicated PC gaming rigs. See our round up of the Best Games for Mac to see which A-list games are available to play. Is MacBook Air good enough? Eugen Wegmann The MacBook Air may suffice in some cases: Creatives: The Air works well for light creative work, especially photo editing, design, and shorter video projects. It is not as strong in sustained workloads, but it is much easier to carry and costs less. Development: The MacBook Air is still a good choice for lighter software development, especially for web development, scripting, and general programming. It is best for developers who prioritize portability over maximum sustained speed. Gaming: The M5 MacBook Air features a third-generation ray-tracing engine and enhanced shader cores, which Apple says improves 3D rendering and gaming tasks. However, in our tests the lack of active cooling caused performance to dip after playing for 10 minutes or so. You can play casual games just fine, but for a variety of reasons, if you’re into AAA gaming, the Air isn’t the best choice. What about MacBook Neo? If your budget is much tighter and your needs are basic, the MacBook Neo is the entry point. It gives you macOS at a much lower price, but with more compromises than the Air. If you choose the Neo we recommend the 512GB version. We recommend: Apple MacBook Neo (512GB) Price When Reviewed: $799 (was $699) Best Prices Today: $789.99 at Amazon | $799 at Apple | $799 at B&H Other MacBook buying decisions to consider When buying a MacBook, it’s important to consider how you will use it, as this will determine the right balance of performance, portability, and price. Key factors to consider include which chip you require, how much RAM you will need for multitasking, and the size of the SSD required for storage, all of which cannot be upgraded later. Screen size affects portability and productivity, screen quality is key for creative work, while battery life matters if you work on the go. You should also think about weight, port selection, and long-term value to ensure the device meets your needs both now and in the future. In the next section we’ll examine these elements of the buying decision. Best MacBook display and screen size Foundry The best MacBook screen size depends on how much portability, screen space, and display quality you need. Best MacBook screen sizes Best size for most people: 13-inch MacBook Air or 14-inch MacBook Pro Best size for portability: 13-inch MacBook Air or MacBook Neo Best all-around Pro size: 14-inch MacBook Pro Best large-screen option without Pro pricing: 15-inch MacBook Air Best for maximum workspace: 16-inch MacBook Pro How many screens are supported The 13-inch and 14-inch MacBooks offer the best balance of portability and usability. The larger 15-inch and 16-inch options are ideal if you want more room for spreadsheets, side-by-side apps, or general multitasking. These displays can run alongside the built-in screen. The M5 Pro and M5 Max limits apply to both touchscreen and non-touchscreen models. MacBook Neo: Supports only one external display up to 4K at 60Hz. MacBook Air (M5): Supports up to two external displays at 6K/60Hz. MacBook Pro (M6): Supports up to two external displays at 6K/60Hz. MacBook Pro (M5 Pro): Supports up to three external displays, each at 6K/60Hz. MacBook Pro (M5 Max): Supports up to four external displays, each at 6K/60Hz. For more advice read: How to use two or more monitors to a Mac. MacBook displays: Liquid Retina, Liquid Retina XDR and PROLED XDR Apple’s MacBooks offer three main display types. The most useful differences are brightness, contrast, refresh rate and touchscreen support. Liquid Retina: MacBook Neo and MacBook Air These displays suit everyday work, web browsing and watching videos. They have a fixed 60Hz refresh rate and don’t support touch. The Air’s display also supports the wider P3 color gamut, making it a better choice than the Neo for color-sensitive work. Liquid Retina XDR: Non-touchscreen MacBook Pro The M6 MacBook Pro and non-touchscreen M5 Pro and M5 Max models use mini-LED displays. These offer higher contrast and brighter HDR highlights than the Air, plus ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and motion. PROLED XDR: Touchscreen MacBook Pro The touchscreen M5 Pro and M5 Max models use OLED displays. OLED controls light at the individual pixel level, producing deep blacks without the backlight blooming that can occur with mini-LED. These models also support direct touchscreen input. You can compare the screen options in the table below: ModelScreen SizeDisplay NameMax BrightnessColor GamutRefresh RateDisplay TechnologyTouchscreenTrue ToneMacBook Neo13-inchLiquid Retina500 nitssRGB60HzLCDNoNoMacBook Air13.6-inchLiquid Retina500 nitsP3 Wide Color60HzLCDNoYesMacBook Air15.3-inchLiquid Retina500 nitsP3 Wide Color60HzLCDNoYesMacBook Pro14.2-inchLiquid Retina XDR1,600 nits (Peak HDR)P3 Wide ColorProMotion, up to 120HzMini-LED LCDNoYesMacBook Pro16.2-inchLiquid Retina XDR1,600 nits (Peak HDR)P3 Wide ColorProMotion, up to 120Hz Mini-LED LCDNoYesMacBook Pro14.2-inchPROLED XDR2,000 nits (Peak HDR)P3 + Adobe RGBProMotion, up to 120HzTandem OLEDYesYesMacBook Pro16.3-inchPROLED XDR2,000 nits (Peak HDR)P3 + Adobe RGBProMotion, up to 120HzTandem OLEDYesYes How the screens compare across Apple’s range of MacBooks. For most people, the Air’s display is sufficient. Choose a Liquid Retina XDR model if HDR brightness and ProMotion matter to your work. Consider PROLED XDR if you particularly value OLED’s contrast or want touchscreen input. Is the touchscreen MacBook Pro worth paying extra for? The touchscreen MacBook Pro starts at $400/£400 more than an equivalent non-touch M5 Pro or M5 Max model. That premium buys display and design improvements, with the same processor options. What the premium gets you A tandem OLED display: The PROLED XDR screen offers higher contrast and adds Adobe RGB alongside P3 color support. This may be particularly valuable for photographers, video editors and designers who regularly use the built-in display. Touchscreen input: Scroll, pinch to zoom and interact directly with content onscreen, alongside the keyboard and trackpad. Its usefulness will depend on your apps and how you prefer to work. A thinner, lighter design: The 14-inch model weighs approximately half a pound less than its non-touch equivalent. Both sizes also replace the notch with Dynamic Island. When it’s worth the extra money The premium is easiest to justify if you spend much of your working day using the laptop’s own screen. The combination of OLED, wider color support and touch could make it a more useful workspace, while the reduced weight benefits anyone who frequently carries their MacBook. You don’t have to want touch to appreciate the other improvements. As Macworld’s Roman Loyola argues, the display may be the more compelling upgrade. When to choose a non-touch model If you mainly work with an external monitor, the upgraded built-in display offers less benefit. A non-touch M5 Pro or M5 Max can provide the processing power and memory you need at a lower price. Touch also won’t suit every workflow. Reaching across the keyboard may be less comfortable than using the trackpad for extended periods, so consider how often you would actually use it. Compare matching chip, memory and storage configurations before deciding: retailer discounts could make the price difference larger than $400/£400. Which is the best MacBook for battery life? The 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro and 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro share Apple’s highest advertised video-streaming rating, at up to 24 hours. For wireless web browsing, the 16-inch M5 Pro leads at up to 17 hours. The MacBook Air offers a lighter, less expensive option, with both sizes rated for up to 18 hours of video streaming or 15 hours of web browsing. The budget-friendly MacBook Neo has lower advertised endurance, at 16 hours and 11 hours, respectively. See: MacBook Air, Pro and Neo batteries compared. You can compare Apple’s advertised battery-life ratings in the table below: Model/chipApple video streaming (up to)Apple wireless web browsing (up to)13-inch MacBook Neo, A18 Pro16 hours11 hours13-inch MacBook Air, M518 hours15 hours15-inch MacBook Air, M518 hours15 hours14-inch MacBook Pro, M624 hours16 hours14-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro22 hours14 hours14-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Max20 hours13 hours16-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro24 hours17 hours16-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Max22 hours16 hours M5 Pro and M5 Max ratings apply to both touchscreen and non-touchscreen models of the corresponding size. How much RAM do you need? For most buyers in 2026, 16GB of RAM should be the minimum. That is the sweet spot for a MacBook you plan to keep for several years. However, the MacBook Neo ships with only 8GB RAM, and there are no options to upgrade this capacity at the time of purchase or later. Whether this is enough RAM depends entirely on your specific use case, as the device is positioned as a budget-friendly entry point into the Mac ecosystem. For the target audience – students, teachers, and casual users – 8GB of RAM should be sufficient for general productivity. A significant concern regarding the 8GB capacity is its long-term viability. MacBook memory is not upgradeable after purchase. If you expect to keep your laptop for a long time, it is worth buying more RAM upfront if your budget allows. RAM recommendations by user type Casual users and students: 16GB recommended. 8GB is workable for very light use, but not ideal for longevity. Creative work and gaming: 24GB to 32GB is the safer target. Professionals and AI-heavy workflows: 48GB to 128GB, depending on workload. You can compare RAM options in the table below: MacBook ModelBase RAMMaximum RAMMacBook Neo8GB8GB13-inch & 15-inch MacBook Air (M5)16GB32GB14-inch MacBook Pro (M6)16GB32GB14-inch & 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro)24GB64GB14-inch & 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Max)36GB128GB Compare RAM allocation across Apple’s range of MacBooks. How much storage do you need for a MacBook? 256GB: Fine for cloud-first users with light local storage needs, but it can fill up quickly. 512GB: The better starting point for most people. It gives you more breathing room for apps, files, photos, and offline media. 1TB or more: Best for media professionals, developers with larger local workloads, or anyone who works with large files regularly. Determining the best storage capacity for a MacBook depends heavily on your specific workflow, as internal storage cannot be upgraded after purchase. While Apple previously offered 256GB as a baseline, most current models now start at 512GB or 1TB to accommodate the increasing space requirements of modern operating systems and applications. For most buyers, 512GB is the practical minimum if the budget allows. Experts now generally advise against 256GB drives for primary machines. Furthermore, SSDs can slow down significantly as they fill up. A common rule of thumb is to buy at least twice the capacity of what you need to store to maintain performance. Storage (SSD) recommendations by user type Casual users and students: 512GB recommended. Sufficient for documents, web browsing, and light media use. General Productivity: 512GB to 1TB recommended. For users with moderate photo libraries and some video projects. Creative Professionals: 1TB to 2TB+ recommended. Necessary for 4K video editing, large high-resolution photo libraries, and professional audio suites. High-End Workflows: 4TB to 8TB recommended. For 3D animation, AI development, and massive video production projects. Is there a difference between SSDs in Apple’s MacBooks There are significant differences in SSD performance, capacity, and technology across the current MacBook lineup. In March 2026, Apple introduced faster storage technologies for the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. The most notable differences lie in the read/write speeds, which vary based on the model’s processor and the physical capacity of the drive: MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max): The M5 Pro and Max models, released in March 2026, feature the fastest internal storage in the lineup. Apple claims these SSDs are up to twice as fast as the previous generation. MacBook Pro (M6): Apple describes the SSD in the M6 model as “Superfast”. With the arrival of the M5 in 2025 Apple claimed it delivered up to 2x faster read/write performance than its predecessors. MacBook Air (M5): The M5 MacBook Air also received a similar storage speed boost with the March 2026 update. MacBook Neo: The MacBook Neo uses a slower SSD to maintain its lower price point. Compare storage options in the table below: MacBook ModelBase StorageMaximum StorageMacBook Neo256GB512GBMacBook Air (M5)512GB4TBMacBook Pro (M6)1TB4TBMacBook Pro (M5 Pro)1TB4TBMacBook Pro (M5 Max)2TB8TB non-touch / 16TB touchscreen Compare SSD options for MacBooks. Which MacBook chip should you choose? Choosing the right MacBook chip in 2026 depends on your specific workflow, ranging from basic productivity to high-end professional creative work. Apple’s current lineup features the M5 family (M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max) and the budget-friendly A18 Pro. Apple’s MacBook chips currently fall into four clear tiers. A18 Pro: Best for basic users who want the cheapest MacBook possible. M5: Best for general users, students, and office work. M5 Pro: Best for photographers, editors, programmers, and users with heavier workloads. M5 Max: Best for high-end creative work, large AI models, 3D production, and anyone who needs the most performance possible in a MacBook. See our Mac processor comparison to find out how different generations of Mac chips compared. Compare processor and GPU options in the table below: FeatureA18 Pro M5M6M5 Pro M5 Max MacBook modelsMacBook NeoMacBook Air MacBook ProMacBook Pro (touch and non-touch)MacBook Pro (touch and non-touch)CPU Cores6-core10-core12-coreUp to 18-core18-coreGPU Cores5-coreUp to 10-core12-coreUp to 20-coreUp to 40-coreMax Memory8GB32GB32GB48GB128GBPorts SupportUSB-C: one USB 3 port, one USB 2 portThunderbolt 4Thunderbolt 4Thunderbolt 5Thunderbolt 5Best ForBudget choice for students & basic tasksMainstream choice for general consumersCreative work, better display and more portsSoftware development, 4K video editing, photo editing Extreme processing power, massive memory capacity Compare chip options for MacBook Air, Neo and Pro. FAQ 1. Which MacBook lasts the longest? For battery life, the MacBook Pro models lead the lineup, with 24 hours of playback. 2. Should I buy a refurbished MacBook? A refurbished MacBook can be a good value, especially if you buy Apple silicon rather than Intel. Just make sure the price gap is meaningful and the machine still has enough life left to justify the purchase. Since Apple put up prices across the range buying in the Refurbished Store is even more attractive. The MacBook Air, MacBook Neo and MacBook Pro were all available at the original price shortly after Apple raised prices. For example, the MacBook Neo is $599, you can get a 13-inch, M5 MacBook Air for $1,099 and a 14-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro for $2,119. 3. Is a MacBook Air powerful enough? Yes. For most people, the MacBook Air is more than powerful enough for everyday work, school, multitasking, web use, and light creative tasks. 4. Is a MacBook worth it compared to a Windows laptop? That depends on your priorities, but MacBooks are often worth the extra cost if you value exceptional battery life, premium build quality, class-leading trackpads, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Apple’s recent price increases have made Macs more expensive, but the company isn’t alone in raising prices. Lenovo also announced price rises in June 2026, while other PC manufacturers have warned that soaring memory and storage costs are putting pressure on margins, making higher prices increasingly likely across the industry. As a result, the price gap between Macs and comparable Windows laptops may not be as large as it first appears. 5. How long will a MacBook last? The typical lifespan of a MacBook is generally between five and eight years, though this depends heavily on a combination of hardware durability and ongoing software support . While the physical components are built to last, Apple eventually classifies older models as “vintage” or “obsolete,” which limits your ability to get official repairs and parts. Find out more here: How long do MacBooks last: Lifespan, support and when to upgrade. Why you can trust Macworld Macworld has been covering everything Apple related since our first issue which arrived alongside the original Mac in 1984. Nobody knows Apple better, except probably Apple, but the difference is that we are completely impartial. We are made up of a team of experts with decades of experiences with Macs and other Apple products, and between us we have reviewed every Apple product meaning we are uniquely positioned to provide buying advice. At a glance: MacBook Specs ModelScreenChipPortsBattery lifeStarting priceMacBook Neo13-inchA18 Pro2× USB-C (one USB 3, one USB 2)16 hours$699MacBook Air 13-inch13.6-inch, Liquid Retina displayM52x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe18 hours$1,299MacBook Air 15-inch15.3-inch, Liquid Retina displayM52x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe18 hours$1,499MacBook Pro 14-inch14.2-inch, Liquid Retina XDR displayM63x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe24 hours$1,999MacBook Pro 14-inch14.2-inch, Liquid Retina XDR display M5 Pro/M5 Max3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe24 hours (Pro), 22 hours (Max)$2,499MacBook Pro 16-inch16.2-inch, Liquid Retina XDR display M5 Pro/M5 Max3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe22 hours (Pro), 20 hours (Max)$2,999Touchscreen MacBook Pro 14-inch14.2-inch, PROLED XDR touchscreenM5 Pro/M5 Max3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe24 hours (Pro), 22 hours (Max)$2,899Touchscreen MacBook Pro 16-inch16.3-inch, PROLED XDR touchscreen M5 Pro/M5 Max3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe22 hours (Pro), 20 hours (Max)$3,399 November 2026 MacBook lineup. Headphone jacks omitted from port listings.

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Today in Apple history: Original iPad mini makes a big splash
On November 2, 2012, the first iPad mini went on sale. With a reduced screen size, it earned praise as Apple's most affordable iPad ever. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Apple’s 15-inch MacBook Air M5 drops under $1,300 ahead of Black Friday
Macworld Apple MacBook Air M5 View Deal (function () { document.querySelector("#sticky-promo-block a").addEventListener("click", function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest("#sticky-promo-block").querySelector("p.promo-title").textContent; const data = { event: "stickyConversionUnitClick", eventCategory: "Sticky Conversion", eventAction: "Click", eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log("Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: ", data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); Black Friday is a few weeks away, but we’re already seeing some impressive discounts on our favorite Apple gear. For example, this 15-inch Apple MacBook Air with an M5 chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB of storage is down to $1,300 just under right now, a savings of $200 off its original price, an excellent discount for one of Apple’s best laptops. With a gorgeous 15-inch display, the MacBook Air is a great pick for work, school, or just tooling around with your everyday activities. The M5 chip is super capable and, when paired with 16GB of RAM, it will handle everything with blazing speed. Throw in the 512GB, and you’ll have plenty of space for apps, files, and whatever else you may need, including AI thanks to the M5’s Neural Engine and next-generation GPU with Neural Accelerators. You can use Apple Intelligence to draft emails and get through your to-do list faster, as well as ask Siri AI whatever’s on your mind. Battery life on this laptop reaches up to 18 hours, which means you can go a full workday without worrying if you left your charger at home. And the MacBook Air is ready for whatever you need to plug into it, with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, MagSafe charging, and a headphone jack, so you’re always connected. Plus, the laptop comes with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 for fast and reliable connections. Snatch this Apple MacBook Air M5 for under $1,300 while this deal’s still live at Amazon.

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Evernote 11.40.3
Improves recordings and transcripts in the information management app. (Free/$99/$249 new, free update, 348.2 MB, macOS 11+)

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BusyCal 2026.4.4 and BusyContacts 2026.4.2
Brings event duration improvements to BusyCal. ($49.99 new for each, free update, various sizes, macOS 13.5+)

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Upcoming: New age rating content descriptors in App Store Connect
Starting November 16, 2026, App Store Connect will include new content descriptors to help ensure your app’s age ratings accurately reflect its features and are in accordance with local regulations. When completing the age rating questionnaire in App Store Connect, you’ll need to declare whether your app includes: Shared Location: Sharing of real-world location with another person or group. Dating and Relationships: Features that enable dating or relationship connections between real people and/or a virtual companion that engages a user in sexual or romantic content. You must provide these declarations when submitting an app update or making changes to your age rating questionnaire. All apps must have these declarations completed by January 12, 2027.Apps that include Dating and Relationships receive a minimum age rating of 18+. Apps that include Shared Location may not have an impact on their minimum age rating in some regions.In Brazil, local regulations require an A16 rating for Shared Location and an A18 rating for Dating and Relationships. If you believe your app qualifies for a lower age rating in Brazil — for example, if your app provides location sharing specifically designed for parents and children — you can request an official rating directly from Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP/Ministério da Justiça e Segurança Pública). Once verified, the official rating will display on the App Store in Brazil.Learn more about Brazil age ratings

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How your old Apple TV 4K is new again with tvOS 27.2 update
Apple recently launched tvOS 27.2 which contains a swath of new features for existing Apple TV 4K users. Here's how your streaming box gets even better.The Apple TV 4K is getting even betterThe new fourth-generation Apple TV 4K carries a hefty price tag, which is why the new tvOS 27.2 update is so welcomed. Existing users get several new features without buying a new box.Many features are available now, though one big one is just around the corner. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Here’s how to listen live to Apple’s Q4 2026 earnings call
Later today, Apple will release its Q4 2026 earnings, with hardware price increases and ongoing component shortages expected to play a big part as the company heads into its first holiday season under new CEO John Ternus. Here’s how you can listen in live. more…

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