Clever mod adds physical SIM slot to iPhone Air
A clever hardware mod add a physical SIM slot to the iPhone Air at the cost of Apple’s full haptic system. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Giving your child an iPhone or iPad? Here’s how to set it up safely
Macworld If you’ve upgraded your iPhone or iPad – maybe you did so over the holidays – that presents the opportunity to pass along your old devices to your children. Everyone wins! But whether it’s a child’s first phone or the latest one to grace their palms, before you hand it over, there are a few important steps you shouldn’t skip. Simply resetting your device and hoping for the best isn’t enough. Without the right setup, these devices can expose far more than you intend. Fortunately, Apple has built in plenty of tools to help parents control what their children can access, how long they use their devices, and who they communicate with. This robust set of parental controls is designed to help you keep your child safe while still letting them enjoy their device. Your Apple device is the key to your digital life, and there are plenty of things that you’ll want to keep locked down. At the same time, Apple has created a lot of tools for parents to manage their kids’ phones and tablets, so putting them to good use should be one of your first ports of call. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do to turn your old iPhone or iPad into a child-friendly device that’s safe, secure, and ready to go in no time. For guidance on the best iPhone for kids and the best iPad for kids read our buying guides. Kid-safe iPad/iPhone setup checklist When setting up your device for your child, it can help to have a quick checklist of things you should do. Follow these steps to ensure you don’t forget anything important. We’ll go into more detail on some of these steps later. Create an Apple Account for your child: This will unlock extra controls over how they use the device and make it easier to see their location. Enable Family Sharing: By doing this, you can share your subscriptions – Apple TV, Apple Music and more – with your child, saving you on the cost of separate memberships. You can also manage purchases. It also lets you find their phone if they lose it, restrict their screen time, and more. Turn on Screen Time: Speaking of restricting screen time, Apple’s appropriately named Screen Time feature allows you to define how long your child can use certain aspects of their device, ensuring they don’t spend too long glued to their phone. You can set app limits and downtime. Create a passcode: No one wants an unauthorized person to gain access to their child’s device and all the sensitive information it might contain. To give yourself a better chance of preventing that, set up a passcode that they know so that they can control who can unlock their phone. Better yet, set up Face ID or Touch ID as an additional layer of security. Best parental controls settings for different ages Kids love phones and tablets, you have to make sure that they are protected while using them.Foundry Feeling overwhelmed or not sure where to start? Here are some handy pointers to get you going based on your child’s age. Ages 3 to 7: Under Settings > Screen Time > [Child’s Name] > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps & Features, block Safari and set which apps they can use. Set age limits for content under App Store, Media, Web & Games. Prevent app downloads under iTunes & App Store Purchases. Ages 8 to 12: Allow Messages under Settings > Screen Time > [Child’s Name] > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps & Features. Go back to the Screen Time menu and adjust the settings under Communication Limits and Communication Safety. Head to Content & Privacy Restrictions > App Store, Media, Web & Games and set age-based web filtering restrictions. Here, under Game Center, limit who they can play games with. Ages 13 to 17: Go to Settings > Screen Time > [Child’s Name] > App Limits > Add Limit. Select the Social category and tap Next, then choose how long they can use social media apps each day. Go back to Screen Time and tap Downtime, enable the Schedule toggle, then set a daily schedule. You can also set age-appropriate limits under Screen Time > [Child’s Name] > Content & Privacy Restrictions. How to set up an iPhone or iPad for a child That’s an overview of what’s involved with setting up a device. In under an hour, you can turn your old iPhone into a kid-safe device by following these steps. Let’s go into more detail. 1. How to erase an iPhone or iPad before giving it to a child Foundry The very first thing you should do before you start setting up your device for your child is to erase it completely. That not only ensures that all your messages, photos and other private data remain out of reach, but also minimizes the risk of your account logins being used by someone who shouldn’t have access to them. Before you start, though, it’s a good idea to back up your iPhone to either iCloud or your Mac, which could save the day if something goes wrong or you realize you accidentally erased an important file. Our guide will help you through that process. To securely erase your iPhone or iPad follow these steps: Open the Settings app. Head to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone. Then select Erase All Content and Settings. Enter your password or Apple Account password, then follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the process to be completed. When that’s done, your device is ready to be set up like new for your child. 2. How to set up Family Sharing and create an Apple Account for your child A Child Account has options where you can set limitations on the account.Foundry One of the easiest ways to remotely manage your child’s device is to use Family Sharing. This feature puts a range of tools and controls at your fingertips, allowing you to adjust what your child can do with their iPhone or iPad on the fly. Better yet, Family Sharing lets you set rules and policies for your child on your own device, which will then be automatically synced to your child’s iPhone or iPad. To be added to Family Sharing your child will need their own Apple Account, which will also let them download apps (with the limitations you set), use shared iCloud storage, and more. You can add a child’s Apple Account to your Family Sharing group right from their device or from your own. To set up Family Sharing on your own device follow these steps: Open the Settings app and tap your name at the top of the screen. Go to Family > Continue and follow the prompts to create your family group and invite family members. To create a child account to add to your Family Sharing follow these steps: Go to your family group (you’ll find it in Settings under your Apple ID) and tap the Add Member button in the top-right corner. In the Invite Family screen swipe down to Tap Create Child Account and select it. (If you have already set up the ID for your child you may see it in Suggestions). In the Create a Child Account screen enter your child’s name and date of birth. You can then set up various restrictions, such as communication limits and screen distance settings, and require them to ask permission before purchasing apps, music and books. Once your child has been added to the Family group, you can use the on-screen instructions to set up parental controls, location sharing, and more. If you want to add a child’s Apple Account to your Family Sharing group from their device rather than from your own you can do so by following these steps: Open the Settings app on their iPhone or iPad and select Connect to Family. Follow the on-screen guidance to connect the device to your Family Sharing group – this process will also create an Apple Account for your child. If you don’t set up an Apple Account for your child you will not be able to limit what they can do and you won’t have the ability to put restrictions on their activities. As the family organizer in a Family Sharing group, when you purchase an eligible subscription, it can be shared with every member of your family. That means there’s no need to buy a subscription for both you and your child, saving you money in the long run. Each member can still set their own preferences and settings within apps and iOS. One disadvantage of being the organizer is that you can end up footing the bill for purchases made by any family member if you don’t turn off turn off Purchase Sharing but note that this may mean that their purchases cannot be shared. 3. How to enable Screen Time on a child’s iPhone or iPad Screen Time can be used to set limits on what your child can do.Foundry Screen Time is a good way to understand the ways in which you use your device (the apps you spend the most time in, for instance) and to put limits on those activities if needed. It can also be put to work monitoring and restricting a child’s account. To get started follow these steps: Open the Settings app on your device and tap Screen Time. Select Family, then tap your child’s name. You’ll now see a central hub where you can control many aspects of how your child uses their device. That includes time limits for apps, age rating restrictions, communication safety policies, and more. Explore all these options to make sure you’re happy with how their device is set up. Any changes you make will be synced to your child’s device. Certain Screen Time settings – like requiring your child to get permission to make purchases – might lead to prompts on your device from time to time. That’s because your child can ask for an exception to the general rule when they reach a pre-set limit. You can respond to this request on their device (with a pincode) or on your own. 4. How to manage a child’s privacy and location services Location Services can be modified so that apps are not tracking your child.Foundry Granting access to the location of your child’s device is a tricky subject. On the one hand, many parents will feel it’s vital to know where their child is so they know that they’re safe. On the other hand, you might not feel comfortable granting location access to certain apps that might not use that information scrupulously. That often means you’ll want to take a nuanced approach to location data when preparing an old iPhone or iPad for your child. First, we’ll start with how you can keep track of your child’s location using their device. When you first create a child account using Family Sharing, you’ll be able to share their location with every person who has been added to your Family Sharing group. This setting will also help pinpoint their device using the Find My app. To adjust these settings later, go to Settings > Family > Location Sharing and change the toggles as required. If you want to limit which apps have access to the location of your child’s device, you’ll need to open the Settings app on their device and go to Privacy & Security > Location Services. Here, you can turn off location services for all apps and features or go through each app and change the location permissions individually. Note that if you switch off all location services, you won’t be able to trace your child’s lost devices using Find My. 5. How to set content and privacy restrictions for a child Foundry There are a lot more content and privacy settings you can customize to ensure everything is appropriate for your child. Make the following changes on your child’s device rather than your own: To start, head to the Privacy & Security section of the Settings app and tap Tracking, then disable the toggle next to Allow Apps to Request to Track. This will stop any apps that your child downloads from being able to follow them across the web and other apps. Now go back and scroll down to Sensitive Content Warning. Enable the toggle here to block nude photos and videos before they are viewed on your child’s device. Screen Time is a very useful tool when it comes to preventing inappropriate content from reaching your child – it’s not just about how long they can use their iPad for. To start, open Settings and go to Screen Time, then tap your child’s name under Family. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and enable the toggle at the top next to Content & Privacy Restrictions. The Content & Privacy Restrictions section is a goldmine of settings that can help protect your child. The first area is used to manage how they interact with apps and features like Apple Intelligence. Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases to decide whether your child can install apps and buy in-app purchases; Allowed Apps & Features lets you disable certain features (like the camera) or apps that you don’t want your child to access. The App Store, Media, Web & Games section is where you’ll find age-related controls: Tap Movies or TV Shows, for instance, and select U to ensure your child can only watch U-rated content. Similarly, the Books, Apps and Music, Podcasts, News, and Fitness sections all let you set age ratings or restrictions on explicit content. Your child can be prevented from watching music videos and accessing App Clips, too. If you want to limit your child to only being able to visit certain websites, tap Web Content and choose from the list of sites (you can manually add your own URLs). In addition, there’s a menu to only allow approved websites or limit adult websites. Note that a lot of these settings are automatically set when you first create a child account – each setting is based on your child’s age – so you don’t need to worry about settings being misconfigured so long as you set up their account with the correct date of birth. Still, it’s a good idea to review each of these sections to guarantee that everything is as you want it to be. Final checklist: Common mistakes to avoid before you hand the device over There are a few last things to do before your child gets your device. Remove your own accounts. While it’s a great idea to create an Apple Account specifically for your kids, you shouldn’t forget to remove your own account from the phone. You can log out before erasing your device, if you like, by going to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out. Or you can simply go through the process of erasing your phone and you’ll be automatically logged out. Turn off messages and photos syncing. Apple’s iCloud service can sync your messages and photos to other devices. If you’re giving your phone or tablet to your child, you might not want it to keep receiving your texts and images. First, sign out of iCloud on your old device, then go to Settings > Apps > Messages and turn off iMessage. Still on the old device, go to Settings > Apps > Photos and disable iCloud Photos, then head to Settings > Apps > FaceTime and switch off the toggle next to FaceTime. Then on your current phone or tablet, go to Settings > [Your Name], then tap the name of the device you’re giving to your child. Scroll down and tap Remove from Account. Don’t forget to erase the device before handing it to a child. Don’t leave your Apple ID signed in. Make sure you set up Ask to Buy. Don’t allow unrestricted web access.

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5 reasons why the Magic Keyboard is the most underrated iPad accessory
Macworld So you just spent at least a grand on a new iPad Pro, and you’re wondering why you should waste $299-$349 more on a mere keyboard case. Well, that’s just it. Apple’s overhauled Magic Keyboard for the M4 and M5 iPad Pro models isn’t a mere keyboard case. The accessory has been rebuilt with higher-end materials and now supports even more features, turning your tablet into an effective laptop replacement. While there are cheaper third-party replicas that manage to get some things right, you’re unlikely to find one that ticks the 5 checkboxes that follow. Keyboard warrior The iPad Pro is renowned for its crisp OLED screen, a feature which is appreciated by artists and movie fans alike. iPad users, however, know all too well that most of the time they don’t get to enjoy that screen in its entirety. Whenever you tap on a text field, the software keyboard pops up, occupying around half of the real estate. This covers a significant portion of the on-screen content, making it hard to maximize one’s productivity. When a Magic Keyboard is attached to your iPad Pro, by contrast, the system automatically stops showing the software keyboard. This lets you take advantage of the full 11- or 13-inch display and get work done in a more practical manner. You also get to rely on keyboard shortcuts in supported first- and third-party apps, which accelerates most workflows. What makes the embedded keyboard so special is its build quality and MacBook-like specs. You get backlit keys, a function row, and the scissor mechanism which elevates the typing experience. I’ve tried other keyboard cases in the past—including Apple’s own—and it’s hard to think of any variant that surpasses the latest-generation Magic Keyboard. A glass act: The keyboard’s premium trackpad makes life easier and more productive.Mahmoud Itani / Foundry Premium trackpad with premium features Unlike most keyboard cases, the Magic Keyboard comes with an embedded trackpad that supports multitouch gestures. While the previous version offered the bare minimum, the recent model switches to a premium trackpad, similar to that of the MacBook. It’s now made of glass, and offers haptic feedback. iPadOS 26 also plays a major role in this setup. With this OS, the mouse cursor has been redesigned to become pointier and less of a circle. It’s now easier to precisely tap a smaller UI element and operate it in a desktop computer fashion. By actively using the trackpad to interact with your iPad Pro, you also protect the display’s oleophobic coating, which wears down when touched repeatedly. Extra port-able If you depend on wired accessories, the fact that the iPad Pro has just one Thunderbolt port can feel like a major limitation. Unless you pay for (and carry around) a dongle, you won’t be able to charge your tablet and attach add-ons, such as external storage devices, at the same time. The Magic Keyboard remedies the situation by adding a second USB-C port on the opposite side. Any port in a storm: The Magic Keyboard’s extra USB-C port can be a life-saver.Mahmoud Itani / Foundry Designed by Apple, to Apple’s high standards Design is one of the main reasons why Apple devices sell so well. From the initial unboxing experience to the way the products are built, the premium feel is undeniable. And the latest Magic Keyboard is no different. The keyboard case is now made from aluminum with finishes that match the iPad Pro’s color options. When connected, it no longer feels like a separate accessory; the two products combine seamlessly to look like, and function as, a single entity. Despite the device’s slimness, it still feels sturdy when placed on flat surfaces, such as tabletops. The segment that attaches to the iPad Pro features a soft layer to prevent scratching the tablet’s metal back. That’s not to mention the responsive, versatile hinge that lets you adjust the viewing angle as needed. The Magic Keyboard’s utility extends beyond typing. It’s a protective cover that shields the iPad Pro’s delicate back and glass front when out and about. It also doubles as a kickstand case for when you’re binge-watching your favorite TV shows hands-free. Design-wise, this is a winner. Thin machine: The Magic Keyboard is slender but robust.Mahmoud Itani / Foundry It just works—when you need it Aside from its attractive, minimalist design, the Magic Keyboard lives up to Apple’s famous “It just works” philosophy. The accessory requires no setup or pairing whatsoever; you just align your iPad Pro accordingly, and the two devices magnetically attach together. The keyboard case then communicates with the iPad and draws power using the Smart Connector on the back. As such, you don’t have to charge the Magic Keyboard or deal with Bluetooth connections and potential latency. Since the iPad Pro attaches to the Magic Keyboard using built-in magnets, you can conveniently detach it when the case isn’t needed. It’s as straightforward as using a MagSafe-enabled wallet with your iPhone. This allows you to easily switch between the tablet and notebook format depending on your tasks and your needs. No fuss, and no headaches. If you’re not convinced, check out our roundup of the best iPad keyboards. Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro Price When Reviewed: 11-inch iPad Pro: $299, 13-inch iPad Pro: $349 Best Prices Today: $269 at Amazon | $269 at Walmart | $289 at B&H

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Creators invited to three-day Apple Creator Studio event
Selected YouTubers and other creators have been invited to an Apple Experience in Los Angeles for the launch of Apple Creator Studio and perhaps more.The invitation's logo is stylized in the same way as the icons for Apple Creator Studio — image credit: Petr MaraApple Creator Studio is a new subscription bundle centered on apps such as Final Cut Pro, and Logic Pro, Apple's video and audio editors. It's due to launch on January 28, 2026, and the timing of that had already led to speculation that Apple would simultaneously launch new Macs.Now "creatorpreneur" Petr Mara has revealed an invitation he has had to an Apple Experience. The invitation has few details, but it is headed with an Apple logo that's been stylized in the same way as Apple Creator Studio apps. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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The very best iPad stands for every occasion
Macworld The iPad is more than just a big iPhone for your lap. For many people, it’s a viable alternative to a laptop or desktop computer. There’s nothing like having the convenience of hands-free use of your iPad. Whether you’re working at your desk, streaming a film, or in the kitchen, a stand becomes an essential tablet accessory. An iPad stand will help your posture and viewing comfort, or make typing or using a stylus much easier. Two Apple technologies can further integrate the touchscreen iPad into your daily work. Sidecar lets you use your iPad as a second monitor for your Mac, and Universal Control allows you to share the same keyboard between Mac and iPad. With each, an iPad stand adds stability, visibility and ergonomic comfort to your iPad experience. For more details, see our explainer How to use Universal Control and Sidecar to augment your workflow. We’ve rounded up some of the best iPad stands out there for every budget–from the lightweight and portable, to the infinitely adjustable, to the ones that just look great, and one that will turn your iPad into a desktop workstation. Some are basic, some are stylish or super-bendy, some come with an array of handy ports, some can even wirelessly charge your iPad, and one looks like a cuddly toy. Whatever the type of iPad stand you decide on, ensure it matches your model of iPad—Apple’s iPad repetitive naming convention isn’t super intuitive—all iPads (iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, iPad Pro) should name their size in inches, and some are named after their processor, others just have a generation. Identify your iPad model here. Stands marked as “Universal” should fit all. Of course, those using their iPad for work may also want to pair the iPad with a keyboard—we have tested the best iPad keyboards for you. Lamicall – Most colorful range of basic iPad stand Pros Works with all iPads Affordable Wide color range Cons Not full 360-degree rotation Price When Reviewed: $24.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $9.98 View Deal Lamicall $24.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Lamicall Tablet stand is an adjustable iPad holder that tilts 270 degrees to suit the angle that you need, making it ideal for use at the work desk or kitchen table. It comes with rubber cushions on the hooks to prevent the screen from getting scratched too.  It works with any tablet (or indeed phone) from 4-inch to 13-inch, and is available in a wide range of colors, including black, silver, rose, gray, gold, green, blue and purple. This iPad stand might be basic but it’s a bargain for a well-built tiltable iPad accessory. Anker 551 USB-C Hub 8-in-1 Tablet Stand – Best iPad USB-C hub stand Pros 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD 4K at 60Hz Built-in iPad stand Foldable Price When Reviewed: 99.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $79.99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal Anker $99.99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This iPad stand incorporates a USB-C dock for added functionality. The hub includes USB-C (to iPad, at 5Gbps data-transfer speed), USB-C PD (100W), two USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI (supporting 4K displays at a healthy 60Hz screen refresh rate), handy SD and microSD card readers, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It connects to the iPad via its USB-C port, and an 18-inch (45cm) USB-C cable is included. When folded it measures 5.6 x 5.5 x 1.1 inches (14.3 x 14.1 x 2.8cm) and weighs 23oz (650g). The iPad can be tilted on the stand for the best height and viewing angles. This hub will work only with iPads with a USB-C/Thunderbolt charging port. Elsewhere we have reviewed more of the best USB-C hubs for iPad. Plugable USB-C Docking Station (UDS-7IN1) – Best budget iPad USB-C hub stand Pros 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD Light, portable stand Cons Not height adjustable 4K at 30Hz Price When Reviewed: $69 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $50.96 View Deal $59.95 View Deal $59.95 View Deal $59.95 View Deal $84.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This smaller iPad stand also includes an eight-port USB-C hub, featuring USB-C (5Gbps to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/91W), two USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers and 3.5mm audio. Again, your iPad should have a USB-C/Thunderbolt charging port rather than older Lightning connector. Its HDMI port supports a 4K display but at a 30Hz screen refresh rate rather than 60Hz. 30Hz is find for most productivity tasks but games and video play better at 60Hz or better. Weighing just 10.7oz (303g) it’s light enough for easy portability, and the stand tilts nicely for you to find the best viewing angle. Lululook 360 Rotating Foldable Magnetic iPad Charging Stand – Best rotating iPad stand Pros Rotates 360 degrees Wireless iPad charging Height-adjustable folding arm Magnetic Cons Dedicated to individual iPad models Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $99.89 View Deal Lululook $99.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This iPad stand looks similar to many others but has the useful benefit of being able to rotate 360°, which makes it ideal for sharing with groups, either at home for family video calls or in-office meetings. If you use your iPad in the kitchen for recipes, you can rotate it as you move around. This is a new release for M4 iPad Pro 13inch /11inch and for M2 iPad Air 13inch/ 11inch, and can deliver 18W fast charging via the Smart Connector on the back of your iPad. Its foldable design will help keep your office uncluttered and easy to carry. Make sure you pick the right model of stand for your model of iPad—this comes in four size options. If you can’t find yours, consider the Benks Infinityi Magnetic iPad Stand, reviewed below or the Plugable PT-Stand1 that is universal in its iPad support—although neither boasts the charging element found with the Lululook models, . Elago Magnetic Stand for iPads – Best Apple-like iPad stand Pros Makes an iPad into an iMac Adjustable Cons Expensive Price When Reviewed: $111.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $99.99 View Deal Elago $111.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If you want a stand that’s as close to the Apple aesthetic as possible, you can’t get any closer than Elago’s new Premium Stand. The minimal aluminum stand is designed to mirror the 24-inch iMac—and you’d be hard-pressed to tell them apart other than the size. The stand holds all sizes of the iPad with magnets, and you need to buy the $5 Magnetic Ring for iPad Stand for this to work with your iPad. Like the iMac stand, Elago’s stand has a hole to thread a cable through. The stand also allows for tilt adjustment so you can get the best viewing angle. And the iPad can be rotated from portrait to landscape positions freely. Here’s a video to see how that works. The Elago Magnetic Stand for iPads is available in gray, blue, pink, and silver. Plugable Universal PT-Stand1 Tablet Stand – Best budget rotating iPad stand Pros Rotates 360 degrees Height-adjustable Foldable Universal Affordable Cons Less affordable in the U.K. Price When Reviewed: $34.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $34.95 View Deal $34.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This rotating stand is cheaper than the Benks Infinity Pro stand, reviewed above, and is also universal, meaning it works with any iPad up to 12.9 inches. It’s also smaller and folds up into an easily transportable package. A cable passthrough hole means you can charge your iPad while in use and it worn’t get wrapped up as you swivel the stand around. It can rotate all the way round and makes a pleasing clicking sound as it rotates. As it can fold back 180 degrees on adjustable hinges, you can keep it upright while adjusting the height. Even though it’s small it feels sturdy even holding a larger iPad. Moft Snap Float Folio – Best stand/case combo Pros Three different positions and some double as iPad cases Cons High stand position is best when not touching iPad Price When Reviewed: $59.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Moft $59.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Moft takes a uniquely Origami-like approach to iPad stands with its range of Float, Dynamic and Snap case/stand hybrids. These are essentially super-lightweight stands that magnetically attach to the iPad and then, through some clever folds and slits in the vegan leather, allows the device to be placed in a range of different positions; as high as 3 inches from the desk. There are models that even more cleverly fold over to create a carrying case for the iPad. The Snap and Float stands have a standard wedge shape where one of the long edges is folded so that it props the iPad up at a 20-degree angle, perfect for typing. Pick this up and turn it around and you have the display at 70 degrees, which is ideal for watching video content. The real trick is the third position, where the angled slits and folds can be adjusted so that the 70-degree position is raised about 3 ½ inches above the desk, making it ideal as a second screen for your Mac when using Sidecar. The Dynamic Folio boasts over 20 angles to match your usage, whether drawing, writing, gaming, reading or just watching on the iPad. It can even support an iPad and an iPhone for dual-screen multitasking. A Dynamic Folio Case was previewed at CES 2026, and we will review that when it’s available. It’s true that the taller position does feel a little precarious if you start tapping on the iPad display, but when used for viewing it’s actually a very clever and neat solution for raising up the device. The first few attempts and getting the orientation of the folds in the right place can be a little confusing, but after that it’s all very quick and easy. Kuxiu X38 Pro Max iPad Magnetic Charging Stand – Best long-necked iPad stand Pros Height-adjustable long folding arm Charges iPad magnetically Interchangeable panel Price When Reviewed: $139.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $109.98 View Deal Kuxiu $119.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If you want to raise your iPad or bring it closer, then push it away, the folding long-necked X38 iPad stand range offers a sturdy arm and a choice of holding options. Attach it to your desk or. a wall. At the top of the pile is the X38 Pro Max, which offers a magnetic fix and neat charging. 18W rapid charging is supplied via the Smart Connector on the back of your iPad that lines up with the same on the stand. It ships with 10 cable clips, nano traceless double-sided tape, and a 2m/6.56ft USB-C charging cable. Made from rustproof aluminum alloy, the folding arm has a maximum height of 26.8 inches (68cm), with five adjustable angle joints. The flexible arm joints feel a little stiff at first, but it is reassuringly stable. It clamps to a table or desk up to 2 inches (5cm) thick. One of the major problems with buying a stand for the iPad is that each model appears to require a specific stand type. When choosing a stand it’s imperative that you check this detail (see the advice above this chart to determine your model of iPad), and when you upgrade your iPad your current stand might not be compatible with the newer iPad. The X38 Pro Max neatly solves the latter dilemma with a detachable panel that enables you to simply switch to a new supporting panel (X39) that does fit the new iPad. The panel on the cheaper X36 Pro Max is not detachable, but otherwise the two stands are similar. Kuxiu There’s a smaller, less extendable iPad charging stand, the X33 Pro Max available direct from Kuxiu or Amazon. The X36/X38 Pro Max and X33 Pro Max have three variants per iPad size. As with all iPads stands, double-check the compatibility with your iPad. Kuxiu also sells more affordable, similar X36 stands without the charging function, with both clip and magnetic iPad-fixing options. The physical clip is the most trustworthy holder but we were impressed with the strength of grip with the magnetic version. Check out the full range on Amazon.com and Amazon UK. Rain Design mStand Pros Range of models Color options Cons Not height adjustable Price When Reviewed: From £29.90 Best Prices Today: Retailer   Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket We’ve long been fans of Rain Design’s MacBook stands, and the company makes a range of quality, designer iPad stands. The most basic model, the mStand Tablet, raises your iPad a couple of inches but isn’t tiltable—for which you will need to go to its more able sibling, the mStand tablet Plus, which offers a 10-50 degree tilt. Literally raising the bar is the mStand Tablet Pro, with increases the height by around 5 inches and offers even greater tilting potential, between 0-45 degrees. The height, however, isn’t adjustable. Made from anodized aluminum, each model is available in a number of Apple-like colors, including Space Gray, Silver, Gold and Black—and they all feature a cable outlet to keep charging cables neat and tidy. As with all iPad stands, ensure that you choose the right version stand for your size and model iPad. Benks Infinity Pro Magnetic iPad Stand – Rotating iPad stand Pros Rotates 360 degrees Height-adjustable folding arm Magnetic Cons Dedicated to individual iPad models Price When Reviewed: From $89.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $69.99 View Deal Benks $89.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The rotating iPad clamps firmly onto the stand magnetically, rather than sitting on a ledge as with most stands. This means you need to choose the correct model stand that is compatible with your iPad. if you upgrade to a different iPad, then it’s possible that the stand won’t be compatible, but it works very well with the iPad models we tested. The confusion around iPad names is Apple’s fault, and not that of accessory makers such as Benks, but check the model of stand your are buying matches the model of iPad you will use it with. The aluminum-alloy arm is height adjustable to help you find the best viewing angle for the iPad. It folds up, so can be stored or carried with you on your travels. There’s a solid-sounding, but not intrusive, clicking noise as you rotate the stand and iPad. An under-base silicone pad provides stability, which is especially important for a rotating stand. Make sure you pick the right model of stand for your model of iPad—if you can’t find yours, consider the Lululook Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand, reviewed above. Ugreen 360° Rotating Tablet Stand – Best larger budget rotating iPad stand Pros Rotates 360 degrees Height-adjustable folding arm Universal Price When Reviewed: $26.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $24.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This rotating iPad stand isn’t magnetic like the Benks Infinity Pro, and instead rests on a couple of sturdy hooks. Otherwise, it’s similar, cheaper and works with all iPad models. It raises the iPad with its height-adjustable aluminum-alloy arm. Vents provide a cooling airflow, keeping your iPad at a healthy temperature. Anti-slip silicone hooks protect your iPad from scratches and slides, and under-base silicone pads provide extra stability. Compatible with 4-inch to 12.9-inch iPads. Tyrone Gooseneck Tablet Holder – Best flexible iPad stand Pros Super flexible Cons Requires table edge for fitting Price When Reviewed: $28.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Flexible but firm, this gooseneck iPad stand is best suited for passive viewing or video calls where you don’t need to use the touchscreen controls so much. It has a firm grip on the table and the tablet and can bend to just about any angle you desire. Belkin Portable Tablet Stage – Best iPad stand for presentations Pros Interactive whiteboard app Cons Expensive Price When Reviewed: $79.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $79.95 View Deal $79.95 View Deal Belkin $79.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If you’re standing up in front of a lot of people and giving a presentation, then this iPad stand is a great choice. The Belkin Portable Tablet Stage Stand is sturdy and has an adjustable platform to position your iPad right where you can see it. It comes with a built-in system for tidying away cables, and you can use the Apple HD Adapter to connect your iPad to a projector or display. The stand comes with an app called Stage (available for iOS and Android) that acts as an interactive whiteboard and document camera. We think it’s a great stand for teachers and others who present on a regular basis.  Arkon Portable Tablet Stand – Best budget iPad stand Pros Cheap Foldable Cons Basic Price When Reviewed: $14 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $11.43 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This basically adjustable Tablet stand fits all iPads under 12 inches (and of course Kindle Fire tablets and e-readers). It’s collapsible, making it ultra-portable and easy to stow away. It may not be the prettiest to look at, but it’s a quick and inexpensive solution to propping up your iPad. UGreen Tablet Stand – For all iPad sizes Pros Foldable Universal Affordable Cons Doesn’t raise iPad screen Price When Reviewed: $10.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $9.99 View Deal Ugreen $10.99 View Deal $14.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This universal stand from UGreen works across a broad range of devices (including Nintendo Switch!) from display sizes as small as 4in – and comes in either white or black. The stand folds so you can carry it with you to work or to use it on your commute. Plus, the hinge flexes up to 100-degrees. Ugreen Tablet Pillow Stand Pros Cosy Gadget pockets Pen groove Universal Cons Bulky Price When Reviewed: $27.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer   Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket In comparison to hard-edged metal iPad stands, the Ugreen Tablet Pillow Stand really does live up to its name, as you can even use it as a pillow when the movie you’ve been watching on your iPad finally sends you to sleep—just remember to remove the iPad first! Suitable for 4.7-inch to 12.9-inch tablets, phones and e-readers, this cozy stand has three angle adjustments, so that you can get the best viewing angle in bed, on the sofa, or at a table—the iPad can be held in both vertical and horizontal viewing positions. Round the back, there’s a handy storage space for your AirPods, stylus, or phone. Flippy iPad Tablet Pillow Stand Pros Cosy Universal Cons Bulky Price When Reviewed: $33.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer   Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If you’re looking for a stand for when you’re lounging about on the couch or bed, this pillow stand is worth looking at. A useful feature is you can adjust the viewing angle by resting the device on a separate edge of the pillow stand, as each side is tilted to a different degree. This works with multiple devices, and the outer fabric can be cleaned easily by using a damp cloth.  It is available in a variety of colors and patterns.

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Buy an ad blocker from this ad and stop the interruptions for good
Macworld TL;DR: The AdGuard Family Plan is a lifetime ad blocker that protects up to nine devices for $39.99 (MSRP $169.99). There’s no real escaping ads online anymore. The best you can do is stop the ones that slow you down, track what you’re doing, or push you toward sketchy links. That’s exactly what AdGuard is built for, and its Family Plan lifetime license is available for $39.99 (MSRP $169.99) as a one-time purchase. AdGuard blocks ads before they load, including pop-ups, banners, autoplay videos, and in-app ads that clutter websites and apps. At the same time, it shuts down trackers and analytics tools that follow your activity across the web, helping keep your browsing more private by default. Security is a big part of the appeal here, too. AdGuard actively blocks known phishing sites and malware-heavy pages, reducing the risk of accidentally clicking something you shouldn’t. For households, optional parental controls make it easier to limit access to unsafe or adult content on shared devices. One Family Plan covers up to nine devices at once and works across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Once it’s set up, it runs quietly in the background with no subscriptions to manage and no renewals to remember. The AdGuard Family Plan lifetime subscription is available now for $39.99 (MSRP $169.99). AdGuard Family Plan: Lifetime SubscriptionSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

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iPhone 18 Pro Max smaller Dynamic Island dimensions detailed in new leak
Rumors have consistently said the iPhone 18 Pro Max will have under-display Face ID, allowing for a much smaller display cutout, which has now been detailed by a leaker.iPhone 18 Pro could have a smaller Dynamic IslandRumors have consistently discussed under-display Face ID for years, but it has never arrived. However, it may finally be time for it to be introduced with the iPhone 18 Pro.In a leak first discovered by MacRumors, Ice Universe has shared the expected dimensions of the newly reduced Dynamic Island. They say it will be reduced by 35% from 20.76mm to 13.49mm. Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Judge denies Musk’s bid to force OpenAI to hand over source code in Apple AI lawsuit
In addition to denying X and xAI’s demand, the judge also decried the case’s excessive discovery requests and disputes. Here are the details. more…

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TikTok America is here, but algorithm changes may take time
The new TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC has been created, and a new US-based algorithm will be put into place which leave users with the choice to stick around or find an alternative.The TikTok joint venture deal has been madeOn December 18, an agreement was finally made between US investors and ByteDance to bring TikTok within the requirements set by the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications law. Oracle, Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi state-run MGX will own portions of TikTok, and ByteDance will keep only 19.9% starting today.A press release from TikTok confirmed that the deal went through and provided a few additional details about the new joint venture. Notably, they've confirmed that US users will still have access to TikTok globally. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Pluribus season finale helped it reach a record high in key Nielsen viewership chart
As reported by Deadline, Pluribus saw a 40% viewership jump during the week its season finale got released. Here’s how it fared against other shows. more…

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EC & Apple play the blame game with MacPaw alternative app store failure
MacPaw is shutting down the Setapp alternative app store in the EU, and Apple hopes to get ahead of the European Commission by releasing a statement of its own, citing "political delay tactics."Apple gets ahead of official EC statement on MacPaw store closingThe Digital Markets Act forced Apple to open up its platform to third-party app stores, and three emerged — AltStore, Epic, and Setapp. Apple has faced criticisms over its implementation, with developers citing overly complex rules and high fees.Apple was pressured in December to cut its fees again, but ultimately MacPaw's Setapp alternative app store ended up being shuttered. It was obvious where the blame was going to be placed, so Apple got ahead of officials and released its own statement, shared by Bloomberg. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple Weather is probably wrong about how much snow you’re going to get
A large chunk of the United States is set to face a massive winter storm this weekend. In the lead up to that, many people have turned to the Weather app on their iPhone for forecasts. The problem? The forecasts are often outlandish and inconsistent. Here’s why. more…

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As Europe looks into Setapp Mobile shutdown, Apple goes on the offensive
In the wake of MacPaw’s decision to shut down Setapp Mobile, Apple and the European Commission are clashing over whose is to blame. Here are the details. more…

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Apple accuses EU Commission of ‘political delay tactics’ amid App Store policy disputes
Apple has accused the European Commission (EC) of employing “political delay tactics” to stall the implementation of new app policies… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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The App Store will have even more ads in March 2026, starting with the UK
Apple has announced its decision to implement additional advertisements within App Store search results, though the upcoming change will initially be limited to users in the UK and Japan.In March 2026, Apple will roll out additional ads in App Store search results.While many of us are familiar with the advertising and branding campaigns of Apple itself, ads within the company's iOS App Store are often little more than a nuisance for end users. Now, iPhone and iPad users will have to deal with even more advertisements, according to an Apple note to developers this week.As spotted by social media users on Tuesday, Apple revealed new details about its plans to run additional ads in App Store search results, starting March 3, 2026. The advertisements themselves will be visible to users in the United Kingdom and Japan, running iOS 26.2 or later, and iPadOS 26.2 or later. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Newsletter platform Substack now has an Apple TV app
Substack today announced its Substack TV app for Apple TV, which brings video posts and livestreams from the publications users are subscribed to. Here are the details. more…

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The App Store will start showing multiple ads in search results beginning in March
At the end of last year, Apple announced that it was expanding App Store search ads beyond the single promoted placement at the top of the results. Instead, developer paying for promotion in App Store search can now have their apps appear further down the search results list, mixed in with the usual stream of organic results. Apple has now confirmed that this will go into effect beginning March 3, starting the UK and Japan, with a rollout across all Apple Ads markets by the end of the month. more…

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Review: Satechi’s 7-in-1 ‘OntheGo’ hub works nicely with iPhone – and it goes even further
Late last year, Satechi released a new 7-in-1 USB-C hub for iPhone. It takes advantage of MagSafe and feels right at home on Apple devices. I’ve had the joy of testing it out for the past few days, and I have to say, it’s certainly a cool option if you think it suits you. more…

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You can now group tabs on OpenAI’s ChatGPT Atlas browser
The latest update to OpenAI’s agentic browser improves memory usage and introduces support for tab groups. See what else is new. more…

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It’s not just you: Massive Microsoft 365 outage affects Outlook, Defender, more
Microsoft is investigating a widespread outage affecting several Business and Enterprise Microsoft 365 services, including Outlook. Here are the details. more…

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Apple Watch makes it much easier to detect arrhythmia, study reveals
The Apple Watch continues to see praise for its health-related applications, with a new study outlining its usefulness in identifying atrial fibrillation in asymptomatic patients.A new scientific study revealed just how useful the Apple Watch can be for detecting atrial fibrillation.Apple's focus on health is evident across the company's product line. Alongside a dedicated Apple Health app, the iPhone maker continues to upgrade its various platforms with health-related features and hardware.The Apple Watch, in particular, has gained a variety of useful capabilities over the years, from sleep apnea detection to electrocardiogram and photoplethysmograph functionality. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple spent $10 million on U.S. lobbying in 2025, up nearly 30% from 2024
Apple’s federal lobbying spending surged in 2025, reaching a record $10 million after a nearly 30% year-over-year increase. Here are the details. more…

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Apple gets six Academy Award nominations
Today, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced nominations for the 98th annual Academy Awards, with Apple scoring six noms… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Report: Apple plans to launch AI-powered wearable pin device as soon as 2027
Apple, OpenAI, Meta, and more are all racing toward AI hardware products.

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Plug almost anything into this new 140W Qi2 charging station
The new Pisen Qi2 8-in-1 140W Mega Charging Hub — just launched on Amazon — offers Apple users a comprehensive desktop charging solution that combines wireless charging for iPhone and Apple Watch with high-power wired charging for MacBooks and iPads, the company said Thursday.  It features not only a Qi2 MagSafe charging platform for recent […] (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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New study shows just how effective Apple Watch is at detecting AFib
New peer-reviewed research suggests Apple Watch could play a much bigger role in spotting atrial fibrillation. In a real-world study, researchers found that smartwatch-based monitoring caught far more cases than traditional approaches, including in people who had no idea anything was wrong. more…

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Shareholder group doubles down after Apple urges investors to reject China audit
Following Apple’s recommendation that shareholders vote against a proposed “China Entanglement Audit,” the National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC) has submitted a new filing with the SEC, urging investors to back the measure. Here are the details. more…

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Apple’s John Ternus just became the new Jony Ive
Macworld It’s been reported that CEO Tim Cook’s time at Apple is nearing an end, and Apple is grooming his replacement. We have another clue to who that may be: In a new report, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said that Apple Senior Vice President John Ternus now manages the company’s design teams. The assignment of new duties was made by Cook at the end of last year. Speculation about Cook’s tenure as CEO started to heat up last year. Cook turns 65 in November, and several reports have stated that the gears are in motion to prepare for the end of Cook’s run. Gurman has reported that Ternus is the leading candidate to replace Cook, but a change isn’t “imminent.” However, his reporting makes it clear that Ternus is a rising star within Apple Park. Ternus’ new responsibilities seem to give credence to him being the leading CEO candidate. Gurman reports that, in his role as SVP of hardware engineering, Ternus had already been working with the company’s hardware design team. But now Ternus is leading the group that develops Apple’s software interfaces. To further expand on the importance of the new responsibilities, Gurman posted on X that only “the very most prominent figures in Apple history” have overseen the whole design team. Gurman also reports that Cook is “trying to expose Ternus to more parts of the company’s operations.” Apple’s design team has only ever been overseen by the very most prominent figures in Apple’s history: Jony Ive until 2019, Cook himself briefly between 2015-2017 and former COO Jeff Williams from 2019-2025. Ternus now joins that list. https://t.co/hW6zbLcaEH— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) January 22, 2026 Apple’s executive ranks had major changes last year. Jeff Williams, who was COO and previously led the design team, retired. Apple AI chief John Giannandrea is also retiring, as is VP Lisa Jackson and SVP and general council Kate Adams. Alan Dye, who leads Apple’s user interface design team, is leaving for Meta.

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John Ternus takes big step toward replacing Tim Cook as Apple CEO
With new design responsibilities, John Ternus, Apple’s head of hardware engineering, is considered even more likely to become the next CEO. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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'Stealing Isn't Innovation' campaign suggests that there's an ethical way to rip off human creativity
AI is the world's most efficient plagiarism machine, and it is coming for music. But, the recording industry isn't trying to protect musicians from AI — it just wants to get its cut of the blood money, too.Image Credit: Human Artistry CampaignAI is here. It's not going away, and it's stealing from everybody.On Thursday, the Human Artistry Campaign, a collective of musicians and industry professionals, launched the "Stealing Isn't Innovation" campaign. The collective and the campaign aim to draw attention to the use of AI in music spaces. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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