Longtime leaker gives a peek behind the curtain of Apple rumor reporting
Macworld Believe us when we here at Macworld tell you that there is very little actual news from Apple Park each month. The news that you see on a more frequent basis is usually part of the rumor mill, a leak from Apple of a product or technology that hasn’t been released yet. Apple rumors are a huge business and a regular part of Apple culture. Filipe Esposito has established himself as a journalist who regularly and reliably reports on leaked Apple information. His first discovery was made by digging into iOS code and discovering that Apple was building 4K/60 fps video recording into the iPhone X, a big deal in 2017. Most recently, Esposito reported on the colors for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro. On this week’s Macworld podcast, Esposito had a wide-ranging discussion with Macworld’s Michael Simon and Jason Cross about reporting on Apple leaks: working with sources, verifying information, getting it right (or wrong), dealing with Apple’s ire, and much more. Check out the clip to find out more–the interview was part of a longer episode of the latest Macworld Podcast.

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How I’m taking much better photos with my iPhone
Macworld For years, the iPhone has been my go-to camera. It’s fast, reliable, and consistently delivers good results in most situations, which makes it much more convenient than carrying a DSLR around. But over time, I started to notice something frustrating: my photos looked less natural and more like something a computer thought would look good. The problem here isn’t the hardware, but everything that happens after you press the shutter button. As phones get smarter, the companies that makes them are using more technology to post-process images and make them look “better.” But sometimes the result is far from ideal, which led me to look for alternatives to take photos that actually look like photographs. If you’re an iPhone user who isn’t a fan of the default camera app’s image processing, here’s how I’ve been taking much better photos with the help of a few apps and even some built-in tools available on iOS. The problem with iPhone photos today Essentially, photography is all about light. The more light you have, the better the photo will look. But smartphones have significantly smaller lenses and sensors than regular cameras, so companies have to use some tricks to make the photos look brighter and less grainy. The solution is something we know as computational photography, and modern iPhones rely heavily on it. Features like Smart HDR, Deep Fusion, and Apple’s Photonic Engine combine multiple exposures, adjust tones, boost brightness, and sharpen details, all in the name of improving image quality. And to be fair, this works most of the time. You get a bright, detailed, ready-to-share photo. But as this processing becomes too excessive, some photos end up looking completely unrealistic. Highlights are often pushed too far. Shadows are lifted to the point where contrast disappears. Skin tones can look off. And perhaps most noticeable of all, there’s an aggressive level of sharpening that gives photos an almost crunchy texture. Unedited photo shot with the iPhone’s Camera app. Everything looks unnaturally sharp and oversaturated.Foundry It’s not uncommon to see people online claiming that photos taken with older iPhones look more natural than those taken with newer models. In particular, I’ve noticed that Apple’s post-processing techniques have become more aggressive since the iPhone 13 Pro. Unfortunately, Apple doesn’t let users turn off all that image processing in the iPhone’s native Camera app. Even shooting in ProRAW still involves a significant amount of computational photography. You get more flexibility, but not necessarily a more natural photo. Where third-party apps come in For users like me who have been unhappy with the iPhone’s built-in Camera app, there are plenty of other photo apps with manual controls available on the App Store. One app of note is Halide, one of whose developers was recently hired by Apple. Halide has a feature called Process Zero, and it has become one of my all-time favorites. Instead of stacking multiple exposures and applying Apple’s entire imaging pipeline, Process Zero captures a single frame with minimal intervention. No Smart HDR. No Deep Fusion. No aggressive sharpening. Foundry At first glance, photos taken with Process Zero don’t stand out as much as typical iPhone photos usually do. They’re flatter, grainier, sometimes darker, and definitely less vibrant. But they look more like a photo you’d take with a good old analog camera. Highlights behave the way you expect. Bright skies can actually blow out instead of being artificially toned down. Shadows stay dark instead of being lifted into a gray haze. Colors are more restrained and more accurate. And most importantly, textures look more natural. Skin doesn’t have that over-sharpened, processed look. Fine details aren’t exaggerated. Foundry One unexpected benefit of shooting this way is how much more enjoyable editing becomes. Instead of worrying about correcting the iPhone’s decisions, I now edit a neutral image to give it the look I want. Personally, I love using the Darkroom app to edit Process Zero photos. Process Zero photos can be edited with greater precision without drastically modifying the overall look of the image.Foundry There are other iOS apps that also let users take photos with no processing, such as Zerocam and Moment. Make older iPhones feel new again One thing I’ve learned since I started taking photos with no post-processing is that this technique can also breathe new life into an older iPhone, or even an iPad. Here’s an example of a Process Zero photo I took with an iPhone 11 Pro Max, compared to a photo from the Camera app. You can see that the sensor is still quite capable of taking good photos without all that unnecessary post-processing. Foundry If you take a closer look at the details, you can see how the image from the Camera app is unnaturally sharp. Foundry You can actually take some great photos with your iPad (just don’t be that person who takes photos with an iPad at a concert or event). Without heavy processing getting in the way, the results are surprisingly usable. Foundry Yes, there are some trade-offs Of course, there are some trade-offs when you choose to take photos with zero processing using third-party apps. Photos taken in low-light conditions will look extremely grainy and the dynamic range is more limited. In addition, you lose features like Live Photos. For those who just want to snap a quick photo to share, the default Camera app is still much more convenient. Apple’s processing exists for a reason. It makes photography effortless for most people. But if you care about how your photos actually look, those trade-offs start to feel unacceptable. An option in between If you don’t want to buy a third-party app for taking photos or still want some computational photography features, there’s an alternative in between. If you have an iPhone 14 Pro or later, you can try taking HEIF photos at 48 megapixels. This will make the iPhone save your photo with slightly less compression and processing at the sensor’s full resolution, while still preserving features like HDR. Foundry To do this, open the Camera app on your iPhone and tap the “HEIF 12” button in the upper-left corner of the screen. Change the settings to the HEIF 48MP option. This feature is only available on iPhones with a 48-megapixel camera (such as the 14 Pro, or the 15 and later). A better way to use the iPhone camera For me, switching away from Apple’s default image processing completely changed how I use the iPhone camera. I take fewer photos, but I care more about each one. Instead of relying on the iPhone to fix everything, I pay more attention to light and composition. Things that actually make a good photo. And when it comes time to edit, I’m working with an image that feels natural. The iPhone still has one of the best camera systems in any smartphone. But if you’re not happy with how your photos look lately, the answer might not be upgrading your hardware. Instead, you should try a new way of taking photos using different software.

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How Apple solved the RAM crisis before it even arrived
Macworld Over the decades, the evolution of computers has been easy to follow: They’ve become steadily more powerful to keep pace with the need for more advanced applications. We’ve seen computers equipped with faster processors, more storage, and, most of all, more RAM. This trend has accelerated even further recently, with companies pushing on-device AI capabilities into their devices, and Apple is no exception. However, the increasing demand for RAM is having another effect on the market. While once plentiful and affordable, RAM is more expensive than ever, and it’s becoming harder to get, even at exorbitant prices. But instead of dealing with constraints by upping prices, Apple is showing the industry how its years-long effort to control every component inside its devices has given it a unique advantage over every other PC maker, evidence no clearer than the recent launch of the MacBook Neo. The importance of RAM in today’s world First, let’s take a closer look at why RAM or memory is so important. Essentially, RAM is a type of short-term memory with ultra-fast speeds, much faster than SSDs. When you open an app on your phone or laptop, it’s stored in RAM to ensure that the processor can handle it more quickly as you continue to use it. That’s why, generally speaking, having more RAM means your devices can run faster, enabling more apps and tasks to operate at the same time without slowing down. As such, RAM has also become extremely important for artificial intelligence. Since RAM is much faster than internal storage, devices also store AI parameters in RAM for quicker access. In other words, the more and faster the RAM, the greater the device’s ability to handle AI tasks locally. That’s why AI companies have been buying up as much DDR5 RAM, the same that’s used in Apple devices, as they can for their servers. It’s also why we’ve seen consumer desktops and laptops gaining more RAM in recent years, including Apple, which only recently increased the base RAM for Macs to 16GB and the iPhone and iPad to 8GB. The AI boom has put more pressure on chips to increase RAM limits.Apple More RAM isn’t a viable option anymore For years, the strategy of adding more hardware resources to handle software demands was a simple solution to complexity. But as modern workloads have become increasingly memory-intensive in recent years, suppliers have been unable to keep up with demand. As a result, RAM has become much more expensive, and PC makers have been forced to shift their strategy. The situation became so dire that Apple had to discontinue the highest-end Mac Studio with 512GB of RAM, while other versions with higher amounts of RAM are also facing significant shortages. And it’s hard not to conclude that the timing of the Mac Pro’s discontinuation wasn’t tied to the RAM crisis as well. The RAM crunch has also been affecting the 16GB Mac mini, which is currently sold out at the Apple Store and unavailable at Amazon. Higher-end models with more memory are severely constrained as well. This situation would (and has) put tech companies in a bind. They need better hardware to meet the growing demand for AI tasks, but there simply isn’t any more RAM on the market. Fortunately for Apple, it had already found the solution years before. Apple chips were made for a RAM-scarce world In theory, there’s no way to simply replace RAM with something else. However, Apple has found the next best thing: a way to optimize both its hardware and software to run smoothly even on devices with the bare minimum of RAM. When Apple introduced the first Mac with the M1 chip, it wasn’t a mere swap from Intel to its own chips, but also a radical change to how its computers work. That’s because Apple silicon chips are classified as a system on a chip, which means key components, including the CPU, GPU, Neural Engine, SSD, and even the RAM, are all on the same pool, sharing the same resources. And that makes a big difference in everyday use. The M-series chips have a complete package right on the chip.Apple Thanks to the SoC’s unified memory, all components can quickly access the same data without having to copy it between different modules. This drastically reduces latency and improves performance when running resource-intensive tasks without needing loads of additional memory. At the same time, Apple leverages its hardware and software integration to further optimize memory usage. For instance, macOS features a very aggressive memory compression system that significantly reduces the amount of RAM used by inactive apps running in the background. The chips also utilize something called “memory swapping.” Admittedly, this isn’t a term Apple invented, but nowhere else is it used so seamlessly thanks to the way Apple silicon chips are designed. If your Mac runs out of RAM, the system can temporarily store memory data directly on the SSD. Because both the RAM and the SSD are connected to the same SoC, data transfer is nearly instantaneous, allowing the computer to run smoothly even when you’re using all available RAM. When it comes to AI, the built-in Neural Engine also helps macOS process machine learning parameters and tasks, freeing up RAM. Essentially, this makes a Mac with 8GB of RAM feel like it has twice that. While pro users will still need more, which Apple happily sells, the MacBook Neo proves once and for all that for everyday users, 8GB of unified memory delivers much more than the same 8GB of RAM in a traditional PC laptop. The ‘RAM tax’ is already here The timing couldn’t be better. In March, Apple introduced its most affordable laptop ever, the $599 MacBook Neo, while the rest of the industry struggles to stay afloat due to the RAM crisis.  Microsoft recently announced significant price increases for the Surface lineup, with some flagship models now costing $500 more than they did at launch due to increased costs for memory and other components. For instance, the 13-inch Surface Laptop now starts at $1,149 with 256GB of storage and 16GB of RAM. That’s $50 more expensive than the base 13-inch MacBook Air model with similar specs. Unlike the MacBook Neo, Microsoft doesn’t even offer an option with 8GB of RAM. The MacBook Neo arrive at a time when PC makers are raising prices.Foundry Meta also recently raised the prices of its Quest headsets by up to $100. The company likewise blamed the “global surge in the price of critical components.” Apple isn’t immune to price increases for components, of course. The M5 MacBook Air, which was introduced last month, is in fact more expensive than the M4 model, starting at $1,099 with 512GB of storage rather than $999 with 256GB of storage. Still, it’s unlikely Apple has any plans to change the MacBook Neo’s starting price of $599 anytime soon. That, of course, is because Apple has established that an entry-level Mac can run just fine with only 8GB of RAM thanks to its system-on-chip architecture. And even in the higher-end models, Apple silicon chips are so efficient that Apple is under less pressure to keep raising baseline RAM—and prices—as aggressively as competitors. Even with just 8GB of RAM, the MacBook Neo performs better than PC laptops with twice the memory.Eugen Wegmann Efficiency will become a growing priority As expected, Apple’s competitors finally seem to be catching on. Last month, Microsoft pledged to improve the quality of Windows with a series of improvements that will make Windows faster and more reliable by scaling back AI and freeing up RAM for other parts of the system, which should definitely improve performance on less powerful devices. Whether by coincidence or not, the announcement came about a week after Apple unveiled the MacBook Neo. Apple isn’t reacting to this shift. It’s already there. Not because Apple devices don’t benefit from more RAM, they absolutely do, but because they rely less on memory specs to deliver a consistent experience. It’s no longer just about how much RAM a device ships with, but how well it uses every gigabyte. Apple might not have designed the M1 chip with a RAM shortage in mind, but all this technology is now proving more useful than ever. This gives Apple a significant advantage over its competitors, who are unable to achieve the same level of integration with separate parts.

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This $114 deal gets you a lifetime of Microsoft Office plus the training you wish you had years ago
Macworld TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business plus a full training bundle for $114 — no subscription, just skills and software that stick. If you’ve ever opened Excel, stared at a spreadsheet, and immediately forgotten everything you’ve ever known, you’re not alone. Most people have Microsoft Office, but far fewer actually know how to use it beyond the basics. That’s where this bundle pulls ahead. With Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business + The Premium Microsoft Office Training Certification Bundle, you’re not just getting the apps — you’re getting the know-how to actually use them. For $114 (MSRP $409.99), you get lifetime access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more, plus a deep library of courses that walk you through everything from beginner basics to advanced workflows. The software itself brings faster performance, smarter AI-powered suggestions, and better tools for collaboration and content creation. The training fills in the gaps, covering everything from Excel formulas and data analysis to polished presentations and efficient document workflows — even using AI tools like ChatGPT alongside Excel. It’s a rare combo: tools you’ll use every day, paired with skills you’ll actually keep using. Skip the subscription cycle and get Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business and The Premium Microsoft Office Training Certification Bundle for $114. Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business + The Premium Microsoft Office Training Certification BundleSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

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Macworld Podcast: iPhone 18 Pro colors and the art of reporting Apple leaks
Macworld The iPhone 18 Pro is just a few months away. We talk about the latest iPhone 18 Pro rumors and what’s involved in reporting Apple leaks on this episode of the Macworld Podcast. This is episode 980 with Michael Simon, Jason Cross, Filipe Esposito, and Roman Loyola. Watch episode 980 on YouTube Listen to episode 980 on Apple Podcasts

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Apple’s $599 Mac mini is no longer available
Apple’s most affordable Mac -- the $599 Mac mini — is no longer on sale, likely due to ongoing DRAM and NAND shortages. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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NASA shares iPhone video capturing Earthshine from Orion during Artemis II
The iPhone footage, captured on the mission’s second day, shows Earth’s reflected light illuminating the Orion cabin. Watch it below. more…

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Experience F1 tracks with 3D art in Apple Maps ahead of each race
Apple Maps has been updated with a new "2026 Formula 1 Tracks Around the World" guide that showcases each racing location. Updated 3D art has been added throughout the season.Apple Maps gets F1 guideThe first F1 season distributed by Apple TV has been off to a strong start. Apple is known for its vertical integration and brand synergy, and it hasn't wasted any time with F1 either.Apple is promoting the F1 season in Apple Maps with a guide. It is titled "2026 Formula 1 Tracks Around the World." Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple Maps adds in-depth F1 experience for Miami Grand Prix
The first F1 Grand Prix in the United States of the this season takes place this weekend in Miami. Ahead of that, Apple is rolling out a detailed Apple Maps experience with immersive 3D landmarks, racetrack details, navigation information, and more. more…

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iOS 26.4.2 and iOS 18.7.8 Address Notification Privacy Flaw Highlighted by FBI Case
The FBI extracted Signal messages from an iPhone by exploiting a notification database flaw. Apple has now released iOS 18.7.8 and iOS 26.4.2 to fix a bug that allowed deleted notifications to persist on devices.

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Report shares new details from Tim Cook’s town hall, including career highs and missteps
A new report from Bloomberg adds fresh details to Tim Cook’s town hall at the Steve Jobs Theater, following Monday’s CEO transition announcement. Here are the details. more…

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Apple Pay and MLS Season Pass earn Apple two Webby Awards
Apple picked up two wins at this year’s Webby Awards, which will hold its ceremony on May 11, recognizing work across apps, video, and digital media. Here are the details. more…

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Apple investors have muted reaction to Tim Cook’s CEO exit; shares quickly rebound
Apple shares initially dipped following the announcement that longtime CEO Tim Cook will step down from the role on September 1, 2026… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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The base model $599 Mac mini is now completely out of stock
The industry-wide supply chain issues continue to hit prospective Apple customers looking to buy new Macs. Today, the base model $599 M4 Mac mini with 256 GB storage is now completely out of stock at the Apple Store. That means Apple won’t let you order it at all, simply stating it is “currently unavailable” for delivery. In fact, the situation is actually more dire. It turns out any M4 Mac mini with 256 GB storage is now in the same boat, regardless of RAM configuration. (Third-party retailers aren’t faring much better: Amazon only has M4 Pro Mac minis on sale now). more…

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TSMC plans to open chip packaging plant in Arizona by 2029
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) plans to open a chip packaging plant in Arizona by 2029, an executive told… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Notification bug that let FBI access messages patched with iOS 26.4.2
People being investigated by the FBI deleted Signal, but some messages were still retrievable from the iPhone's notification database. The latest iOS update patches this vulnerability.iPhones may be secure, but they aren't invulnerable to bugsUsers should reasonably expect that deleting an app from their iPhone will remove all associated data. However, a recent case involving the FBI showed that some notification data was being retained by mistake.The iOS 26.4.2, iPadOS 26.4.2, iOS 18.7.8, and iPadOS 18.7.8 updates released on Wednesday address the notification database issue directly. The notes simply say that "a logging issue was addressed with improved data redaction." Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Threads users can now join group chats during live events
With the new Live Chats feature, Threads users can join public, real-time group conversations built around major live events. Here are the details. more…

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iOS 26.4 offers two Liquid Glass customization updates
iOS 26.4 recently brought two new updates for how you can customize the Liquid Glass design on your iPhone. more…

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Google confirms context-aware Siri built from Gemini will debut in 2026
Search giant Google has publicly confirmed that Apple's updated Siri, complete with its long-promised personalized responses, will finally be coming out at some point in 2026.Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian talking about Apple at Google Cloud Next 26 - Image Credit: Google/YouTubeIn January, Apple confirmed that it had entered into a multi-year deal with Google to use the Gemini model to create Apple's Foundation Models. Google now says that the fruits of Apple's AI labor will be on display before the end of 2026.Speaking at the Google Cloud Next 26 opening keynote, Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian talked about Apple as a key customer of the company. Standing in front of the Apple Logo in the auditorium, he enthused about how Apple was using its technology. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple’s greatest strengths may become its biggest AI weaknesses
As John Ternus prepares to take over as CEO, Apple faces a pivotal question: in the fast-moving AI era, can the same discipline, polish, and… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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