From iPod Hi-Fi to iPhone Pocket: Apple’s Most Head-Scratching Products Ever
Macworld Apple is known for its iconic devices such as the Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, but the company also has an extensive lineup of accessories, ranging from USB cables to iPhone cases and even Apple Watch bands. And the company has just added a new member to its family of accessories. Dubbed iPhone Pocket, the new accessory is the result of a collaboration between the company and Issey Miyake. It’s essentially a small fabric sleeve with an expandable strap described as a “beautiful way to wear and carry your iPhone” around. Surprisingly, prices can reach $230 per piece. But this isn’t Apple’s first head-scratching accessory. Read on as we dive into some of the company’s most head-scratching creations. iPod Socks Apple When Steve Jobs announced iPod Socks as a “revolutionary new product” during  an Apple event keynote in October  2004, many people laughed, thinking that Jobs wasn’t serious about launching a pack of colorful socks for iPods. Jobs even joked about how other companies were making a lot of money from third-party iPod accessories, while Apple had zero official accessories at that point. The idea was to compete with protective cases for iPods, but with an original, fun, and unexpected touch that only Apple could provide. The socks were compatible with pretty much all iPod models available at the time and protected them from scratches when they weren’t being used. iPod Socks weren’t exactly convenient since you had to take the iPod out of the sock to access the Click Wheel. Still, the accessory was fun, unique, and most importantly, quite affordable. A pack that included six color options cost $29, less than $5 per sock. In many ways, we can say that the new iPhone Pocket has a touch of inspiration from iPod Socks. U2 iPod Apple Also in 2004, at the same event where Jobs announced iPod Socks, Apple also unveiled the U2 Special Edition iPod. To celebrate the good relationship between Apple and U2, the company released a special edition iPod in black with a red Click Wheel. On the back, the iPod had the signatures of each member of the band laser-engraved.  Customers who bought the U2 iPod also received an exclusive poster and a $50 coupon toward the first-ever Digital Box Set containing all of U2’s music up to that point. It was clearly made for superfans of U2 and wasn’t the last time Apple and U2 would cause waves of confusion. Only four generations of the U2 iPod have been released over the years, making the product an expensive collector’s item for those who still have one. The existence of the U2 iPod is a reminder that Apple loves to collaborate on new products from time to time. iPod Hi-Fi Apple Marketed as “home stereo reinvented,” the iPod Hi-Fi was Apple’s first attempt to bring music and its minimalist design language into the living room. A decade before HomePod existed, the iPod Hi-Fi amplified songs played through the iPod with the help of multiple speakers and a large built-in woofer. Since AirPlay wasn’t a thing back then, users had to plug their iPod into the Hi-Fi system using a 30-pin connector precariously placed at the top of the heavy speaker. There was also a 3.5mm headphone jack for connecting other devices to the iPod Hi-Fi. Due to its high price ($349), unimpressive sound, and lack of wireless connectivity, the iPod Hi-Fi never became a hit. Apple ended up discontinuing the product just one year later, after launching the first iPhone. And most people probably never missed it. iPad Keyboard Dock Apple When Apple announced the first iPad in 2010, the company also introduced an intriguing accessory: the iPad Keyboard Dock. Instead of a wireless keyboard or a folio case, it was literally a dock with a full-size keyboard attached. Despite Apple’s attempt to include keyboard shortcuts specifically designed for the iPad, the keyboard felt awkward, had no adjustability, and required the iPad to be connected via the 30-pin connector. Because of that, it was only possible to use the iPad with the keyboard in portrait orientation. The accessory cost $69, which was somewhat expensive for a clunky keyboard. The iPad Keyboard Dock was discontinued a year later, after the launch of the iPad 2. It took Apple four years to release another keyboard for the iPad, this time a much better one (the Smart Folio Keyboard). Mac Pro Wheels Kit and Pro Display Stand Apple When Apple introduced the 2019 Mac Pro and Pro Display XDR, the company marketed it as a modular, professional desktop that could handle everything from 8K video editing to advanced 3D rendering. But alongside this long-overdue Mac and monitor, the company unveiled two accessories that made all the headlines. For $699, customers could replace the standard stainless-steel feet with a set of four polished wheels so they could easily move their Mac Pro around. The idea made some sense for studio environments, but the price (nearly $175 per wheel) turned the Mac Pro Wheels Kit into a meme. To make things worse, the wheels don’t come with all the tools needed to install them on the Mac. In addition, the wheels don’t have locks, so your $6,000 computer could simply roll away if the floor isn’t perfectly level. But that wasn’t the only confoundingly overpriced accessory introduced. While the Mac Pro’s companion monitor, the 32-inch 6K Pro Display XDR, certainly impressed with its specs, users were more shocked that the $5,000 monitor didn’t come with a stand included. Rather, Apple sold a Pro Stand separately with an insane $999 price tag. It was impossible not to notice the crowd’s negative reaction at the event during the announcement (which was notably Apple’s last live keynote). Both products are over-engineered, beautifully crafted, and hard to justify. Yet, they’re both still available in stores. Apple Polishing Cloth Apple In 2021, Apple quietly released an accessory that no one asked for, but everyone talked about. The Apple Polishing Cloth appeared on the company’s online store with a $19 price tag and a simple description: a soft, nonabrasive material that “cleans any Apple display.” Almost immediately, the cloth went viral. Some mocked it as the ultimate symbol of Apple’s luxury pricing, while others defended it, claiming it actually worked better than cheap microfiber alternatives. The product even sold out within hours, with shipping dates slipping by months. It became both a meme and a collector’s item, proving that Apple can even turn a simple cleaning accessory into a status symbol. To this day, the Polishing Cloth remains on sale, a small but perfect example of Apple’s ability to make small things seem premium. iPhone Crossbody Strap Apple More recently, Apple introduced another accessory that divided people’s opinions: the iPhone Crossbody Strap. The strap can be attached to all Apple iPhone 17 cases and lets users wear their brand new iPhone as a fashion accessory, similar to the new iPhone Pocket. While some see no point in the accessory, others seem to like the idea of carrying their iPhone around as if it were a small purse. One thing we can’t deny is that the accessory isn’t cheap either: $59 for each skinny strap, and the case isn’t included. Weird, but very Apple As you can see, Apple has a long history of trying to push new accessories. While some fail, others emphasize Apple’s ability to turn almost anything into a premium product. It’s still too early to tell whether the new iPhone Pocket will be a hit or whether it will quietly disappear in a year, but at least Apple is once again trying to do something different.

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Tesla is looking to incorporate CarPlay features to help boost lagging sales
Whether you love or hate Tesla at this point in history, the company may be looking to finally add CarPlay to its feature set. According to Bloomberg, Tesla is developing support for CarPlay. Sources close to the story have stated that while Tesla has long developed its own infotainment system, drivers have long said that […] Source

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1Password offers new unlock settings, other features
This could come in handy. Software developer 1Password on Thursday announced a redesigned unlock system for Mac and Windows that allows the app to open automatically when a user unlocks their device. The new setting lets the application unlock alongside the operating system when a user authenticates with either Face ID, Touch ID, a PIN, […] Source

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Mackie CR3.5BT review: Compact audio monitors at a good price
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Powerful sound Good speech intelligibility Favourable price Flexible connection options Front volume control Cons No digital input Subwoofer recommended Our Verdict Mackie’s CR monitors offer solid performance at an entry-level price. Although a digital USB input is missing, the features are impressive for the money. The speakers really come into their own on the desk, while larger models are recommended for use on a shelf. The CR series is also available with or without Bluetooth. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed$129.99 Best Prices Today: Mackie CR3.5BT Retailer Price $129.99 View Deal Mackie $130 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Mackie CR3.5BT are active 2-way studio monitors featuring a 3.5-inch woofer and a 0.75-inch fabric tweeter, making them ideal for desktop and home studio applications. With compact dimensions of 206 by 140 by 180 millimeters, they can be positioned flexibly. The low weight of just 3.7 kilograms per pair also ensures easy handling and mobility. Mackie CR monitors offer a comprehensive range of features and numerous connection options that allow the monitors to be used in a variety of ways. Wireless audio streaming is easily possible thanks to Bluetooth 5.0. Various analog inputs are also available: two 6.3 mm jack sockets (balanced/unbalanced), two RCA connections (RCA), and a 3.5 mm stereo mini jack. These monitors do not have any digital inputs. There is also a headphone output with a 3.5 mm stereo jack on the front. As soon as headphones are connected, the speakers mute automatically. This means that audio interfaces, mixers, turntables, or other playback sources can be connected flexibly. There is a tone control on the front, which can be used to intuitively adjust the sound. Depending on the setting, the sound can be particularly transparent and linear or bass- or treble-emphasized. This is ideal for various applications such as gaming, the living room, or parties. The speaker also has a volume control with an on/off detent. A position switch on the back allows you to choose between desktop mode (for short listening distances, for example, in the studio) and bookshelf mode (for longer distances, for example, up to the couch). The cabling can be flexibly adjusted using the L/R position switch. The integrated power supply unit (100 to 240 volts) simplifies cabling as no external power supply unit is required. The scope of delivery includes a speaker connection cable, an RCA to jack cable, and foam pads. Technically, there are hardly any surprises. Amplification is provided by a Class D power amplifier with a peak output of 50 watts and a continuous output of 25 watts RMS. The housing is made of MDF and has a bass reflex port for improved bass reproduction. Mackie positions the CR3.5BT as a universal speaker for the desktop on a Mac, as well as a stereo speaker for connecting to a player such as a turntable or a streaming player. I first tested the Mackie CR3.5BT via Bluetooth. This revealed the first problem with our M4 Mac Studio: the speakers were on the desk, the Mac Studio M4 under the desk, and this was apparently enough to permanently disrupt the Bluetooth connection. A test with the iPhone, on the other hand, worked without any problems. Alternatively, the Mac’s headphone output could have been used. The sound via Bluetooth is immediately convincing. The CR3.5BT utilizes its decent housing volume for a surprisingly full sound. It is important to set the switch on the back correctly: “Desktop” for placement on the desk at a short distance from the listener or “Bookshelf” if the speakers are placed further away on a shelf, for example. The maximum sound resolution is primarily limited by Bluetooth and the AAC codec, but it is fine for music and speech. It is pleasantly clear for speech, but can sometimes be a little sharp and aggressive for music. Switching to the direct connection of an Eve Play audio streaming player and positioning it on a speaker stand at ear height changes the listening experience. Listening to Tension II by Kylie Minogue plays much more airily and freely. What was sufficient on the desk, the bass, is too weak when positioned at some distance from a wall. This is particularly noticeable with pop, disco and rock. There’s a lack of punch here, but that’s not surprising given the small woofer. In this application scenario, it is best to use the optional CR8SBT subwoofer. Depending on the music genre, the tweeter can be somewhat aggressive, which is primarily noticeable at higher volumes. Should you buy the Mackie CR3.5BT? The CR3.5BT can’t perform miracles, but it delivers a solid performance for its price. Beginners can buy these without hesitation, but will have to live with the fact that there is no digital USB input. Anyone looking for more sound or additional features will quickly end up paying around three times the price. The features of the CR3.5BT are impressive for the low price: three analogue inputs, a headphone output, a tone control, and an easily accessible volume control conveniently located on the front. The speakers really come into their own on the desk; on the shelf, we would recommend one or even two sizes larger models.

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Poignant documentary Come See Me in the Good Light is available to watch now on Apple TV
A poignant new documentary film called Come See Me in the Good Light is now available to watch on the Apple TV subscription service. You can get a seven-day free trial for new sign-ups here. This is the latest Apple TV movie that the company acquired from the Sundance film festival. It follows a poet, Andrea Gibson, who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Gibson resolves to live the rest of her life to the fullest. more…

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Poignant documentary Come See Me in the Good Light is available to watch now on Apple TV
A poignant new documentary film called Come See Me in the Good Light is now available to watch on the Apple TV subscription service. You can get a seven-day free trial for new sign-ups here. This is the latest Apple TV movie that the company acquired from the Sundance film festival. It follows a poet, Andrea Gibson, who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Gibson resolves to live the rest of her life to the fullest. more…

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Save $80 on a lifetime license to MS Office 2024 Home & Business
Macworld TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC for just $169.97 (MSRP $249.99) — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook with no ongoing fees. Your career deserves reliable, up-to-date productivity tools. For a limited time, you can get a Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business Lifetime License for Mac or PC for just $169.97 (MSRP $249.99). This one-time purchase gives you lifetime access to essential Microsoft apps — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook — without recurring subscription fees. Office 2024 is designed for modern pros who need seamless collaboration, offline reliability, and strong security. It features a modernized user interface that follows Microsoft’s Fluent Design principles. Performance upgrades—especially in Excel—allow you to work with large datasets and multiple workbooks without lag. PowerPoint now includes enhanced presentation recording capabilities, letting you add voice narration and video directly into your slides. AI-powered features across Word and Excel offer intelligent suggestions, natural language processing, and smarter data analysis to boost productivity. Office 2024 also improves real-time co-authoring, integrates more deeply with Microsoft Teams, and provides reliable offline access. It’s a permanent, professional-grade solution for anyone who needs top-tier Office tools without ongoing costs. Get a Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business Lifetime License for Mac or PC for just $169.97 (MSRP $249.99) through November 16. Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC Lifetime LicenseSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

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If you’re a Compressor user, you should really get the latest update
Apple has released Compressor 4.11.1, with an important security fix. Here are the details. more…

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Apple & OpenAI must face baseless xAI lawsuit about alleged anticompetitive collusion
Elon Musk wasn't happy with how xAI was performing in Apple's App Store compared to ChatGPT, so he filed a lawsuit, which Apple and OpenAI must now face after failing to get it dismissed.Elon Musk wants Apple's help to make Grok more popularThere are a lot of odd details surrounding a case that pits Elon Musk and former business partner Sam Altman against each other — with Apple trapped in the middle. Musk's xAI developed Grok to compete with ChatGPT, but it has fallen short with a highly biased bot programmed to promote right-wing extremism in place of facts.While Grok is technically impressive on its own, its bias has made it a limited competitor to those seeking out that kind of biased information. According to a report from Bloomberg, Apple and OpenAI must face a lawsuit claiming that the failure of Grok's popularity is due to anticompetitive behavior. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Amazon unveils $18 Apple AirTag deal, the lowest price ever
The lowest AirTag price on record is in effect now, making it a perfect time to pick one up for holiday travel or as an affordable stocking stuffer.Get the lowest price ever on Apple's AirTag at Amazon.The $18 deal at Amazon reflects a 38% discount off retail on the Apple AirTag and delivers a new record low price on the single pack.Get the $18 AirTag deal Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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ChatGPT gaining group chat feature in four regions
OpenAI is piloting a pretty big ChatGPT feature in select markets. The company is rolling out the ability to have group chats with ChatGPT for the first time. more…

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TerraMaster F2-425 2-bay NAS review: Features beyond its bay count
The TerraMaster F2-425 may be a two-bay NAS, but it offers the functionality of bigger and more premium models on the market.TerraMaster F2-425 2-Bay NASThe typical expectation for a prosumer NAS is for it to provide extra features beyond data storage. They're also usually premium models, and often have space for a lot of drives, which can get expensive quickly.You can get NAS devices with far fewer drives to save money initially, but they also tend to be more limited in terms of features. They are frequently entry-level, having token functions that don't work that well compared to the more expensive four-bay versions. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple and OpenAI fail to dismiss Elon Musk’s antitrust lawsuit
A US District Judge rejected Apple’s request to toss the lawsuit that accuses it and OpenAI of thwarting competition in the AI sector. Here are the details. more…

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Opera says DMA contributed to 5x growth of iOS users in Europe
Norway-based Opera announced today that its iOS user base in Europe has grown by as much as five times since the Digital Markets Act (DMA) took effect in 2024. Here are the details. more…

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Apple Maps rolls out Look Around and Detailed City Experience features in Kansas City
Missourians and Kansans alike can now virtually navigate the metro area within Kansas City in richer detail, including Apple’s in-street viewing feature. Here are the details. more…

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Apple releases macOS Tahoe 26.2 public beta 2
macOS public beta testers can now download macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2, which introduces a clever feature for video calls. Here’s what’s new. more…

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AirPods firmware update brings hope to wearers of Apple earbuds
Here's how to see if you have the latest AirPods firmware, which brings bug fixes, plus how to force an update if you don’t. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Apple Tries Selling $230 iPhone Pocket 'Sock'
Longtime Slashdot reader dskoll shares a press release from Apple: Issey Miyake and Apple today unveiled iPhone Pocket. Inspired by the concept of "a piece of cloth," its singular 3D-knitted construction is designed to fit any iPhone as well as all pocketable items. When stretched, the open textile subtly reveals its contents and allows users to peek at their iPhone display. iPhone Pocket can be worn in a variety of ways -- handheld, tied onto bags, or worn directly on the body. Featuring a playful color palette, the short strap design is available in eight colors, and the long strap design in three colors. The "Long" sock variant comes in at only $229.95 and is available in three elegant colors: sapphire, cinnamon, and black. What do Slashdotters think of this very real product? Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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Report: Paid subscription for MLS on Apple TV to end in 2026
Macworld In 2022, Apple and Major League Soccer agreed to a big deal that made Apple TV the streaming provider for all of the league’s matches (local broadcasters still offered games on network TV). However, those matches required a paid subscription. That paywall is going away for the upcoming 2026 MLS season, according to The Athletic. MLS matches next season will simply be part of a regular Apple TV subscription, according to the report. An Apple TV subscription is $12.99/£12.99 per month, or $99 per year. Previously, Apple offered MLS Season Pass, which was $14.99 per month or $99 per year (an Apple TV subscription was not required). Neither Apple nor MLS has made an official announcement about the change. While the report may seem surprising, the signs that foretold a change were apparent. The 2026 MLS playoffs (which are happening now) are not behind a paywall on Apple TV. Earlier this year, reports stated that MLS commissioner Dan Garber called Apple “a great technology partner,” but there were questions on whether Apple TV was the best venue for the league’s efforts to expand its fanbase. Apple and MLS began a ten-year deal that started with the 2023 season. The changes come a month after Apple and Formula 1 signed a five-year deal for Apple TV to stream all F1 races. In that deal, practices, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix will be available to Apple TV subscribers, and select races and all practice sessions will be available for free in the Apple TV app. F1 TV Premium will continue to be available in the U.S. via an Apple TV subscription only for $17 per month.

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Belkin recalls three products, including two USB-C power banks, due to fire hazards
Accessory maker Belkin has issued a product safety recall notice due to a fire hazard affecting three of its products. Here are the details. more…

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