NordPass review: The VPN experts can now look after your passwords
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating ProsEasy to set up and useGood security featuresDecent free tierConsPassword import from Keychain only via a MacBest features are on paid tierOur VerdictNordPass is a solid and easy to use password manager with plenty of useful features. Price When ReviewedFree 30-day trial; From $1.49 per month, $71.76 a year (currently $35.76 for two year) Best Prices Today: NordPass Retailer Price NordPass (annually) $71.76 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket You may be familiar with the NordVPN brand, as it’s one of the most popular VPNs around and features at the top of our best VPN chart. But, that’s not the only string to the company’s bow, as a little while back it introduced a password manager called NordPass. So, does the expertise in one field translate to another? Here’s how NordPass shapes up. Software & Features Autofill login details Import passwords from other password managers Store passwords, passkeys, documents and account details NordPass may well be one of the newest password managers around, but it already feels like a mature product, with all the features you’d expect in a modern service.  Once installed, you can import your existing passwords from Chrome or Firefox browsers or output a CSV file from your previous password manager and import this to NordPass (there are helpful instructions to help you do this). After that, you should be good to go.  Importing existing passwords from iCloud Keychain is less simplistic but it can be done, albeit only via a Mac. To import a CSV file to NordPass click on Settings > Import Items and choose Safari. You can then upload the CSV file from iCloud Keychain. There is also a NordPass Safari extension that you need to install if you prefer to use Safari. To add this extension to Safari click on Safari in the menu bar, choose Settings, and then open Extensions and enable the extension. You may then need to pair the extension with a 4-digit code that will be supplied. NordPass supports biometrics, so once you’ve created your master password you will only have to enter it occasionally as a security measure, and all other times you can use Touch ID or Face ID to access your passwords. As you’d expect, NordPass can autofill your login details on sites or apps, plus you can also store your address and credit card details so all of these will automatically populate text fields when you’re checking out, saving lots of time.  The interface is on par with other password managers, in that you have the main Home page where you can see your passwords, plus links to other features you can set up, such as entering the data for the form-filling features mentioned above.  Along to bottom of the screen you have tabs for various areas of the app. There’s the Browse page, where you can quickly look at, enter or edit passwords, passkeys, secure notes, credit cards, and personal details, as well as organizing them into folders.  Martyn Casserly Martyn Casserly Martyn Casserly The next option is Tools, where you’ll find the password generator. With this you can easily create long complicated passwords that are difficult to crack. There are also options to include or omit capital letters, digits or symbols, depending on what the app or site requires.  To check on the current security level of your passwords there’s a Password Health area that lets you know if any are particularly weak or overused.  For Premium subscribers, there’s also Email Masking, which can generate temporary emails addresses for when you’re signing up to online services that you don’t expect to use for long. It’s basically the same as the Hide My Email service Apple includes with iCloud+.  You can also avail yourself of the Data Breach Scanner on the Premium tier, which will warn you if any of your passwords have appeared in leaks or security breaches reported online.   Finally, Premium members can securely share passwords with others (they don’t have to be NordPass members) via links created in the app.  NordPass is available on macOS, iOS, Android, Windows and Linux, plus there is the secure Web Vault that means you can access the information from any browser. Extensions are available on Chrome, Edge, Safari, Opera, Firefox and Brave.  Security & Encryption XChaCha20 encryption Data Breach Monitoring  Multi-Factor Authentication To protect your data, NordPass utilizes XChaCha20 encryption, which is arguably even tougher to crack than the AES-256 variant used by most password managers.  NordPass uses a zero-knowledge architecture, which means your data is encrypted and decrypted locally on your device, so NordPass never has access to your master password or Login details. This is a pretty standard technique and one you’ll find on most other password managers. The reason being, that even if the NordPass servers are cracked, this won’t expose your data as the encryption/decryption key required on your device.  Martyn Casserly Martyn Casserly Martyn Casserly As mentioned above, NordPass will monitor Premium accounts to look for any reports of data breaches, so you can change your account details before they become compromised.  Multi-factor authorization is also available, allowing you to set up further levels of security to prevent hackers. This can be via a One Time Password (OTP) being sent to your device, authenticator apps like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator, plus a USB authenticator if you’re on a Mac or PC.  Price & Availability There is a free tier available on NordPass, which also has a 30-day trial of the Premium features. Then, if you want, you can stay free or pay $20.28/£19.08 p/a for a single Premium account. Should you want the Family package, which gives you six Premium accounts, then that will set you back $35.88/£35.88 p/a. The free tier is quite good, in that it allows for unlimited passwords and passkeys, supports the autofill feature, Multifactor authorization, secure notes and the password generator. If you’re only using one device, then it’s probably most of what you need. You can sync the passwords between devices, but only one can be logged in at a time, so bear that in mind.  Moving up to the Premium tier opens up the ability to be signed in on multiple devices, while also unlocking secure sharing, Email Masking, and the Data Breach Scanner. These are useful tools, and as the overall asking price is quite reasonable, they look like good value to us.  Should you buy NordPass? NordPass is a solid and easy-to-use password manager that actually has a pretty decent free tier if you’re not switching between devices too often. Support for biometrics, passkeys and multifactor authentication make it secure, while the wide range of apps and extensions means it should work on all your device. It’s reasonably priced too. Good work Nord!  iOS, iPad, iPhone, Mac, MacOS, Password Managers

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Learn about the world you’re driving through with this iOS app, now $39.99
Macworld Next time you’re on the road, pull up Autio if you want to learn about the world as it passes you by. Autio is a unique travel companion that tells you about the places you’re driving through. This location-based story app is like your own personal narrator teaching you about the history, geography, and local sights all around you.  These beautifully edited audio stories play while you’re driving and have automatic and seamless transitions so you don’t get distracted. There are already over 23,000 stories in the Autio library, but more are being added all the time. You might even recognize some of the voices.  Many of these audio stories are narrated by celebrities. Kevin Costner might tell you about the geographical formations on your left or get restaurant recommendations from John Lithgow. Phil Jackson could be the voice in your ear telling you about the original settlers of your hometown while you’re out buying groceries. You can even listen in offline mode. Just download relevant stories ahead of time.  Take your learning on the road and get an: Autio Unlimited Plan: 3-Year Subscription for $39.99. Autio Unlimited Plan: 5-Year Subscription for $69.99. Autio Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription for $199.99.   Autio Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription – $199.99 See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.  Accessories

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iOS 17.5 will simplify submitting your iPhone for repair
A new 'Repair State' mode in iOS 17.5 will allow you to submit your iPhone for repair without turning off Find My and Activation Lock. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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MLS Season Pass drops price for remainder of 2024 season
As about a third of the 2024 Major League Soccer season has now concluded, Apple is dropping the price of the MLS Season Pass package in kind. The season subscription is now sold for $69, down 30% compared to its $99 price at the start of the season. For Apple TV+ subscribers, the pass is now just $59. more…

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How to delete iCloud messages on Mac & iPhone
Efficiently managing and deleting messages from iCloud is crucial for freeing up storage space on your iPhone and Mac. Here's how to delete messages from iCloud.How to delete messages from iCloudYou can easily retrieve and manage your messages using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Deleting messages from iCloud ensures the security of your data.Deleting a message from iCloud permanently removes the message from the cloud storage, providing an extra layer of protection for your personal and sensitive information. Regularly deleting messages from iCloud can safeguard your privacy and prevent unauthorized access to your conversations. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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New Beats Solo Buds already sound like a better deal than AirPods 2
Apple on Tuesday launched the new family of Beats Solo wireless headphones. While the Beats Solo 4 are available for pre-order from today, the company also announced new Beats Solo Buds wireless earbuds. With a price range of $79 and 18 hours of battery life, Beats Solo Buds already sound like a better deal than the old . more…

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New Repair State feature keeps Find My enabled during device repair
A new feature in iOS 17.5 called "Repair State" keeps Find My enabled on devices being sent in for repair.iOS 17.5 will introduce a new Repair State featureUsers have to disable Find My when sending in a device for repair, but that will change once iOS 17.5 is released. A new Repair State feature will keep Find My enabled throughout the repair process.Code referencing the feature was originally discovered by 9to5mac in the latest iOS 17.5 beta, which was released on Tuesday to authorized developers. The new feature aims make repairs easier for both consumers and repair technicians, by eliminating the requirement for Find My removal. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple releases new firmware for USB-C Apple Pencil
Apple released a new firmware update today for the USB-C Apple Pencil launched last year. The update bumps the version number… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple enhances USB-C Apple Pencil with new firmware update
Apple has released a firmware update for the USB-C Apple Pencil launched in 2023. It enhances the functionality and overall performance of the accessory.The update, which transitions from version 10M5164 to 10M6060, is available via a connection of the Apple Pencil to an iPad using a USB-C cable. On the device, the new firmware version number is displayed as 37377.37377.16.0.Apple doesn't generally provide release notes for the Apple Pencil other than that it fixes bugs and includes various improvements. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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iOS 17.5: New features, release date, and more details
9to5Mac is supported by Incogni: Keep Your Private Data Off The Dark Web with Incogni. Help protect yourself from identity theft, scams, and spam calls. Use the code “Apple55” for -55% off the annual plan. Apple has officially started beta testing iOS 17.5 with developers and public beta users. The update brings a handful of new features and changes, and is expected to be released sometime next month. Head below for everything we know right now. more…

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The iPhone’s next AAA game, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, gets a release date
The game launched on consoles and PC months ago.

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TikTok pulls a 'Fortnite' and is trying to dodge in-app purchase fees
TikTok may be trying to follow in Epic's "Fortnite" footsteps by sneaking in external payment links that violate App Store guidelines.TikTok's external links may violate App Store guidelinesApple has very strict App Store guidelines surrounding what is and isn't allowed for in-app purchase systems and external linking. The rules previously had an anti-steering clause that was removed thanks to regulators, but TikTok seems to be pushing its luck.According to a report from TechCrunch, some TikTok users are being presented with external links that suggest users will save 25% by buying coins on tiktok.com. While at first glance, this appears to be TikTok taking advantage of the new external linking entitlement, details suggest not. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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9to5Mac Daily: April 30, 2024 – Beats Solo 4 and Solo Buds, next-gen CarPlay update
Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players. Supported by Setapp: Get access to 240+ apps on your Mac for just $9.99. Sign up today for a free 7-day trial.  more…

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Is TikTok bypassing Apple’s App Store in-app purchase commission?
9to5Mac is supported by Incogni: Stop robocalls, spam emails, stalkers, fraud, and more with Incogni. Exclusive discount for 9to5Mac readers: Use the code Apple55 at checkout to get 55% off the annual plan. A new report from TechCrunch today claims that TikTok might be bypassing Apple’s App Store in-app purchase system. The report says that TikTok is “presenting some of its users with a link to a website” to purchase coins, instead of using Apple’s in-app purchase flow. more…

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Enjoy $40 Off the AirPods 2
Get a huge discount when you grab today’s AirPods 2 deal. The second generation AirPods is down to just $89 from its original price of $130 on Amazon. The Apple AirPods 2 offers a wireless audio experience via Bluetooth and over 24 hours of playback with the included charging case. As a daily driver, you […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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Delta retro game emulator app to launch on iPad
Retro game emulator Delta is slated to launch on iPad soon. Delta made a move as soon as Apple changed its App Store guidelines to allow retro game emulator apps on the platform. Developer Riley Testut recently said that Delta is nearing its iPad debut on social media Threads. He said that the emulator is […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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Fortnite on iPad planned in the EU
Epic Games is planning on bringing its hit game Fortnite on the iPad in the EU market. The company confirmed the move today, saying that a Fortnite release will be coming to the EU through the Epic Games Store. Since alternative marketplaces are now allowed, Epic will be launching its own game from there. The […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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Colored glass backs arriving on iPhone 16
A new rumor from China claims Apple will be using the same colored back glass as the standard iPhone 15. Apple debuted a new dual-ion exchange glass process for the non-Pro iPhone 15 models, which allowed the back panel a frosted effect of the main frame. The effect, according to Apple, is ‘five beautiful colors, […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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iOS 18 said to add a slew of new features to 15 of Apple’s iPhone apps
Apple is widely expected to show off iOS 18 during its June 10th WWDC keynote, including new features for many apps, including Safari… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Beats tackles the low end with new $80 Solo Buds, Solo Beats 4 refresh
Macworld Apple’s other company, Beats Electronics, is often overlooked in favor of the eponymous AirPods. But they shouldn’t be: Beats offers more colors, often better fit or different sizes/styles, and most of the same features you get with AirPods. And today, the company has announced a long-overdue update to its most affordable headphones and a new pair of super-affordable earbuds. Beats Solo 4 It’s been eight years since the Beats Solo 3 were released in 2016. Clearly, an update is long overdue. The new Beats Solo 4 maintain the same on-ear size and styling as the Solo 3, with a few notable upgrades. According to Beats, the new model is upgraded in the following ways: Refined acoustics with improvements to the transducer, voice coil, and more for lower distortion. USB-C charging Lossless audio over USB-C or the 3.5mm audio jack (which works battery-free) Up to 50 hours battery life (and 5 hours with a 10-minute recharge) A new proprietary platform that supports most Apple and Android features That last feature is perhaps the biggest upgrade. Beats Solo 3 used Apple’s W1 chip which only worked with Apple’s easy pairing features and such, but the new proprietary system supports both Apple and Android features, and more of them. You get personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking now, for starters. Apple users get easy one-touch pairing and iCloud pairing, hands-free “hey Siri”, and support for Find My. On the Android side, you get support for Google Fast Pair, support for multi-point pairing, and support for Find My Device. As with all Beats Solo products, there is no active noise cancellation. Beats Solo 4 are available now for the same $199 price as Beats Solo 3. They come in Matte Black, Slate Blue, and Cloud Pink. Beats Solo 4 Price When Reviewed: $199 Best Prices Today: $199 at Beats Beats Solo Buds New to the Beats lineup is Beats Solo Buds, taking the affordable “Solo” line to the true wireless earbuds category. At only $79.99, they’re definitely the most affordable product Beats makes. These little buds have an impressive 18 hours of playback time and a really tiny charging case. The charging case is so small because there’s no battery in it—you use it to plug in a USB-C cable to charge the buds, but the buds do not charge when just placed in the case liek the AirPods or Beats Studio Buds+. Beats Beats Beats Like Beats Solo 4, the company uses its own proprietary platform to offer support for both Apple and Android connectivity features. That includes one-touch pairing, automatic account setup, and support for Find My (Apple) and Find My Device (Android). Like AirPods they also have touch controls. Beats Solo Buds will be available in early June for $79.99 and come in Matte Black, Storm Gray, Arctic Purple, and Transparent Red (the case is transparent, the buds are opaque). Beats Solo Buds Price When Reviewed: $79.99 Best Prices Today: $79.99 at Beats Accessories, Headphones

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