Connect with 4 monitors using Satechi’s new Thunderbolt 4 dock
Macs are known for limitations on adding external displays. But the new Satechi Thunderbolt 4 DisplayLink dock gives you a great fix. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Apple’s AI strategy for iPhones could accelerate sales growth – IDC
Worldwide smartphone shipments are forecast to grow 4.0% year over year in 2024 to 1.21 billion units, according to IDC… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple Puts iPhone Durability Ahead of Easy Repairs, Exec Says
Apple prioritizes device durability over easier repairs, according to John Ternus, the company's head of hardware engineering, in a recent interview with YouTuber MKBHD. "It's objectively better for the customer to have that reliability," Ternus stated, adding that it is "ultimately better for the planet" due to significantly lower failure rates. Apple tests over 10,000 units of each product before release and incorporates real-world concerns into its testing suite. Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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Apple’s Journal app could be blow away with an iOS 18 AI upgrade, as this new third-party app proves
Apple’s WWDC keynote is fast approaching, where the company will unveil all its AI features for iOS 18, macOS 15, and more. I’ve written previously about how Apple has the potential to make AI mass-market with iOS 18 in a way few other companies can. I expect Apple’s presentation to largely focus on AI features that are simple to use and serve existing needs in a more convenient way. There probably won’t be many jaw-dropping moments during the keynote, but rather a lot of nice-to-haves. However, after seeing what a new third-party autobiography app is doing with AI, I’m convinced Apple could have a blow away moment if it showed off an AI-supercharged Journal app. more…

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Modern lives are messing up menstrual cycles—earlier starts, more irregularity
Earlier and irregular periods are both linked to poor health outcomes.

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Tune in to the WWDC24 Apple Music soundtrack
The iPhone giant gets you in the mood for its huge annual software developer conference with a new WWDC24 Apple Music playlist. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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How to join Apple’s beta program and test the new software coming at WWDC
Macworld If you’ve ever wanted to take an early look at new versions of Apple’s operating systems before they launch, and maybe help shape them in the process, then Apple’s beta program is something you should consider. This initiative allows developers and public beta testers to gain access to the updates before they’re released, so they can help test for bugs and give any new features a thorough workout before they’re unleashed on the general public. Apple will reveal the details of the next round of operating system updates at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which kicks off with a keynote on June 10 at 10nam PT. Soon after the keynote closed the first developer betas of iOS 18, iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, and macOS 15 will arrive and anyone who wants to install them will be able to test them out ahead of the public release in September. In this article, we explain how to get involved with testing the betas, but also point out some of the reasons why you may wish to give it a pass and wait for the final versions to arrive. What is the Apple Beta Software Program? As the name suggests, this is a chance for volunteers to download a beta version of the new operating system for their device and test it out. It’s completely free and you can sign up for beta versions of the following software: iOS iPadOS macOS tvOS watchOS HomePod Software (iOS) The idea is that you install the pre-release software and use it as you would your normal OS and send Apple comments through the built-in Feedback Assistant regarding crashes or other behavioral anomalies that you encounter when testing your apps, or when using the software as you would normally. Developer Beta: Meant for developers who need to get their apps working on the new operating system. The developer beta arrives immediately following the keynote and usually a day or two before subsequent public betas. You need to be a member of Apple’s developer program to install developer betas, but you don’t need to pay the annual $99 fee. Public Beta: Usually a few steps behind the developer beta, which essentially means that the public beta will be slightly more stable. There is usually a slightly longer wait until the first version of the public beta arrives, but once the programs are underway there are usually only a few days between the developer beta being released and the public version arrives. Try out the new Apple operating systems early by joining the beta. Try out the new Apple operating systems early by joining the beta.Apple Try out the new Apple operating systems early by joining the beta.Apple Apple When will the betas come out? The first developer betas will arrive just after the WWDC keynote on June 10, around noon PT. The first public betas are likely to arrive in late June or early July. Is Apple’s beta program free? It’s free to join both the developer and public beta programs. It used to be necessary for developers to sign up for the full Apple Developer Program, which costs $99/£79 a year, but as of 2023, you can get the developer beta with a free developer account. The free public beta testing program is open to anyone with a valid Apple ID (iCloud accounts qualify) who goes to the Apple Beta Software Program page and signs up. How can I get a free Apple developer account? On an iPhone download the Apple Developer app from the iOS App Store. Open the Apple Developer app on your iPhone and tap on Account. Select Sign In. Sign in using your usual Apple ID. Once you are signed in on the Developer app go to Settings > General > Software Update on an iPhone and you should see Beta Updates as an option. The same applies to iPadOS and macOS. Just go to the Software Update section and you will see the availble beta versions. Foundry Foundry Foundry How to get to the developer beta Once you have signed up for a developer account, you will be able to access the developer beta. Here’s how to find it on your device: iOS/iPadOS: Settings > General > Software Update. Then turn on Beta Updates and select iOS Developer Beta. macOS: System Settings > General > Software Updates on macOS. Then turn on Beta Updates and select watchOS Developer Beta. watchOS: In the Watch app on your iPhone, select General > Software Update. Then turn on Beta Updates and select watchOS Developer Beta. How to get the public beta To sign up for public betas you’ll need to go to the Apple Beta Software Program site. Select Sign Up Sign in with your Apple ID Follow the prompts to register. Once you have registered, getting the beta on your device is easy: iOS/iPadOS: Settings > General > Software Update. Then turn on Beta Updates and select iOS Developer Beta. macOS: System Settings > General > Software Updates on macOS. Then turn on Beta Updates and select watchOS Developer Beta. watchOS: In the Watch app on your iPhone, select General > Software Update. Then turn on Beta Updates and select watchOS Developer Beta. HomePod Software: Home app > Home Settings > Software Update. Then select HomePod Beta Updates and choose the HomePod mini or HomePod (2nd generation) you want to install the beta on. Apple Beta Software Program FAQ Is it safe to install the Apple beta? This is an important question especially now that Apple is making the developer beta more widely available. If you rely on your device for work, we recommend waiting until the full version is released in the fall, but otherwise, beta updates are a personal choice. There are a few reasons why becoming a beta tester for the next version of iOS or macOS might seem attractive. First and foremost, they let you try out new features before they’re released, and sometimes features that are never released. Occasionally, Apple will pull a feature that was beta-tested before the general release. Becoming a beta tester also gives you a chance to shape the development of the software. Your feedback, while not necessary, could be invaluable in stopping a bug or just generally improving the quality of the software on your Mac or iPhone. You will be providing a service to others in ensuring that all bugs are ironed out before the final release. However, beta software, by its very nature, is unstable and it’s worth noting that participating in Apple’s Beta Software Program could cause serious problems with your device. You should consider whether it’s right for you before downloading and installing the pre-release software, which is bound to have bugs and issues that could cause things to go spectacularly wrong. This won’t be helped by the fact that Apple does not offer official support for pre-release software. This means that we would heavily advise against putting it on a device upon which you’re reliant. Bugs in the code could see the device stop working at any moment or in rare cases it could actually “brick” your machine until the next beta update arrives. It’s best to install the beta on an older device if you have one. If you don’t have a spare Mac on hand you should consider installing the macOS beta on a separate volume or running it on an external drive. The threat of bugs and other stability issues is a good reason to think carefully about whether you want to take the risk of using the beta. If you do decide to install the beta software, make sure that you create a full backup beforehand. Check out our list of the best backup software for Mac for some great options. Do you get paid for being an Apple beta tester? No. This is strictly a voluntary pursuit. What does being an Apple beta tester mean? The purpose of the beta program is to provide Apple with feedback about the upcoming release. Expect there to be bugs and general issues—software offered through the beta program are not finished products, by installing it you are agreeing to become a tester and helping Apple to iron out these issues. When you encounter bugs or other issues, you can report them using the Feedback Assistant app. The app will let you provide information about what you were doing at the time of the crash so Apple can diagnose the issue. The main purpose of a beta tester is to locate bugs, but you can also provide feedback on interface oddities and other UI issues. Apple may change things if enough people have problems with the way something is designed—much like Safari in iOS 15. You can also provide feedback on third-party apps that aren’t working as they should. Can I leave the beta program? If, at any point, you decide that you’d like to end your participation in the beta software program, simply turn off beta updates on your device and the next available full release will install once it arrives. You can visit Apple’s Unenroll page or more information. We also have guides on how to remove a beta from your iPhone and your Mac for older devices. Apple Inc, iOS, iPad, iPhone, Mac, MacOS, Personal Software

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SmartGym gets multi-equipment lists, personalized weights, alt exercises, and more
SmartGym for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac is out with a major update today. The new release brings a top-requested feature – tracking multiple equipment lists as well as the ability to personalize weights, give alternative exercise suggestions, a new Summary Screen for Apple Watch, and more. more…

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Apple preps Apple TV+ app for Android
Apple is prepping a version of its Apple TV+ app for Android, a sign the firm is finally bringing its streaming service to iPhone knockoffs… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Logitech updates Designed for Mac range with new keyboard and mice
Logitech has expanded its Designed for Mac' collection of peripherals, adding more keyboards and mice to the Apple-inspired range.Logitech's new Mac-specific peripherals collectionAlongside its expansive catalog of accessories for various computing devices, Logitech also has a Mac-specific range. The Designed for Mac collection has been around for a while, consisting of accessories that give off a Mac-like appearance while retaining Logitech's features.On Thursday, Logitech added a new lineup of Logi for Mac items to its collection. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Instagram enhances Notes feature by adding support for likes, mentions, and prompts
Today Instagram is rolling out a handful of enhancements to its Notes feature, including adding support for likes, mentions, and the ability to post prompts that others can respond to. more…

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Apple 1TB M4 iPad Pro new low + Nano-Texture $365 off, Sonos AirPlay 2 speakers from $199, M3 MacBook Pro deals, more
Your Thursday edition of the best Apple (and Apple-adjacent gear) deals has arrived. Today we are headlining with the headliner M4 iPad Pros, including new all-time low pricing on the high-end 13-inch 1TB configuration as well as a sizable $365 price drop to secure the banger 2TB Nano-Texture Glass Cellular model at a major discount. From there, we move on to the entry-level M3 MacBook Pro that has now dropped back down to $1,400 at $199 off followed by rare price drops on Sonos AirPlay 2 speakers and home theater gear. Head below for a closer look in today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break. more…

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PDF Editor, PDF Book Reader works with iPhone/iPad, Mac, Apple Vision Pro
PDF Editor PDF Book Reader is a user-friendly, comprehensive PDF editor for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Vision Pro and iMessage. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Today in Apple history: Apple marks massive iPod touch milestone
On May 30, 2013, Apple marked the sale of the 100 millionth iPod touch by launching a new, stripped-down model with a budget price of $229. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Anker Prime 27650mAh Power Bank (250W) review: Portable power for your MacBook
Macworld At a glance ProsLarge battery capacity140W (PD 3.1) charging powerCompact sizeDedicated appOur VerdictThere are smaller high-capacity laptop power banks available, but the Anker Prime 27650mAh is a respectable mixture of power and portability—and is particularly well suited to the 16-inch MacBook Pro that can take advantage of its 140W charging and larger battery capacity. Price When Reviewed$179.99 Best Prices Today: Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W) Retailer Price $179.99 View Deal Anker $179.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Anker Prime 27650mAh Power Bank (250W) is one of the most powerful laptop power banks that you can match with your MacBook. It has bundles of battery capacity in a portable package. In particular it is a great fit with the 16-inch MacBook Pro, which has a battery rated at around the same watt hours (99.6Wh) as this power bank (99.56Wh) and can be fast-charged at 140W. Attach Apple’s USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable to the power back and you can utilize one of the two 140W PD 3.1 ports to fast-charge the 16-inch Pro. Although the power bank ships with a perfectly acceptable 140W-capable USB-C to USB-C cable, Apple allows fast-charging only using its proprietary charging cable. Power bank tech specs Battery capacity: 99.56Wh Fastest Power Output: 140W Total Power Output: 250W Power Input: 170W USB ports: 2x USB-C (140W PD 3.1); 1x USB-A (65W PD 3.0) Dimensions: 6.4 x 2.3 x 2 inches (16.2 x 5.7 x 5cm) Weight: 23.25oz (659g) Performance Anker claims that you can fast-charge that top-end MacBook Pro up to 50% in half an hour using this power bank and Apple’s charging cable. Theoretically, you should get nearly a full charge into a 16-inch MacBook Pro, but it’s not quite as simple as that. Anker claims that the Prime 27650mAh can charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to around 70%. We charged a 14-inch M2 Pro MacBook Pro (69.6Wh battery capacity) to 100%, leaving 18% power remaining in the power bank, but when we came back to charge it a second time there wasn’t much juice to spare. Anker claims that this power bank can power up a 13-inch MacBook Air (58.2Wh) one and a quarter times. See our list of MacBook battery capacities for more details on the whole range of Apple laptops. Foundry Foundry Foundry While it’s especially capable in terms of battery capacity for charging laptops, the Anker Prime 27650mAh Power Bank can simultaneously charge other devices, such as one or two iPhones, your AirPods, or your Apple Watch. You might want a power bank capable of recharging an iPhone multiple times—say on a camping trip or family long-haul flight. And this power bank has plenty of battery power to share around. If you’re after a smaller iPhone power bank, check out our roundup of the best MagSafe power banks. An iPhone 14 could be charged four and a half times over if using all the power bank’s battery capacity. In our tests, we fully recharged an iPhone 15 Pro in about 1 hour 40 minutes, leaving 85% power left in the power bank. There are three USB ports at the top of the power bank. Each of the two USB-C ports can be used to power at 140W. While it has a maximum total output of 250W you can’t fast-charge two 16-inch MacBook Pros at the same time—when using the two USB-C ports at the same time one runs at 140W and the other at 100W, which is still powerful enough to fast-charge one laptop and standard-charge another simultaneously. When using all three ports at the same time, one USB-C will have 140W potential, the other USB-C can charge at up to 92W, and the USB-A port will run at 18W, which is enough to fast-charge an iPhone if you still have a USB-A charging cable, of course—although note that you can’t fast-charge an iPhone with a USB-A connection. Eventually, of course, the power bank itself will run out of juice. You can recharge the power bank itself in under 40 minutes using the two USB-C ports at the same time. Available separately, the $69.99 Anker 100W Charging Base allows for convenient wireless charging. This accessory also features two USB-C ports (one at 100W, the other 30W) and a 22.5W USB-A port. Laptop power bank portability The Anker prime 27650mAh Power Bank is a little higher than the iPhone is long, but obviously a lot wider and deeper. Compact as it is, from a portability point of view this power bank is too big and heavy to keep in your pocket. At 23.25oz (659g) you probably wouldn’t want it weighing down your backpack and handbag all the time either. But if you’re going to be far from a wall power socket for a long time, it’s not overly heavy to pack on your travels. Here, the Anker app is showing a MacBook charging at 36.1W, an iPhone at 20.7W and AirPods at 1W. Here, the Anker app is showing a MacBook charging at 36.1W, an iPhone at 20.7W and AirPods at 1W.Foundry Here, the Anker app is showing a MacBook charging at 36.1W, an iPhone at 20.7W and AirPods at 1W.Foundry Foundry More than just a battery This is a sophisticated power bank with some tricks of its own, unlike more basic battery packs. Most obvious is the color digital display on the front of the power bank that shows the remaining battery capacity, plus power input and output information. As well as that charging data, the power bank can be controlled by the Anker app, which gives real-time charging stats (remaining charging time and input and output power indicators) and can be optimized to help extend the battery life of the devices being charged as well as its own. You can even use the app’s Find Device feature to activate a sound alert from the power bank when you need to locate it. The power bank comes with a soft travel bag and short, 0.6m USB-C cable. Safety Anker is an accessory manufacturer that you can trust. Batteries can be volatile and you don’t want to risk your device or even home with a cheaper no-name brand. From a safety point of view, Anker claims its ActiveShield 2.0 technology monitors the power bank’s temperature to ensure safe charging. Power Delivery 3.1 is included for efficient and secure device charging. At 99.56Wh it is within TSA, CAA and EASA airline limits for carry-on. Price Available in two colors, a standard space gray and a gold-like Champagne, the Anker 250W 27650mAh Power Bank is priced at $179.99 / £179.99 / CA$249.99 / AU$299.95. Check our real-time price comparison for the best prices in your region. Anker has cheaper laptop power banks. At $129.99, there’s a 20000mAh Anker Prime Power Bank model that offers a battery not too much smaller and the same number of USB ports, plus 200W (vs 250W) total power output, but a third cheaper and noticeably smaller and 4.5oz (130g) lighter. That smaller model lacks the app but might suit owners of 13- and 14-inch MacBooks. For the 16-inch MacBook Pro, the 140W (PD 3.1) speedy 27650mAh power bank makes more sense. For $20 more you could buy the Ugreen 48000mAh Portable Charger Power Bank that boasts even more power but is a bigger and much heavier accessory. It too has a digital display, and has five USB ports. Should I buy the Anker Prime 27650mAh Power Bank? The Anker 250W 27650mAh Power Bank is a compact yet high-capacity laptop charging power bank that will give a 16-inch MacBook Pro not too far off a full charge at high speed, a full charge for a 14-inch MacBook Pro, and over a charge and a quarter for a 13-inch Air. Alternatively, it could charge an iPhone four times over. At its size and weight, it is not one for the pocket but could easily slip into a small bag on your travels. There are smaller high-capacity laptop power banks available, but this one is a respectable mixture of power and portability—and is particularly well suited to owners of the 16-inch MacBook Pro that can take advantage of its 140W charging and full battery capacity. Laptop Accessories, Mobile Phone Chargers, Power

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