The best USB-C hubs for iPad
Macworld Apple’s iPads now all use the universal USB-C connector port rather than Apple’s old Lightning connector. The M1/M2/M4 iPad Pro models use the even more capable but identical-looking (and compatible to USB-C) Thunderbolt connection (USB4). What many people don’t realise is that the USB-C port is good for more than charging or plugging in wired earbuds. Apple’s tablets can also be used with other peripherals that transform it into an even more versatile computer. As such, iPad owners have a wide range of USB-C accessories available to them unless their older iPad still uses the Lightning connector. Some of the USB-C hubs connect directly into the iPad. Others require a cable connection; some come with both, which helps when the iPad is in a protective case. We have also included stands for iPads that include built-in multiport hubs. Best USB-C hubs and docks for iPad HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub – Best overall USB-C hub for iPad Pros 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD 4K at 60Hz Direct fit to iPad 60W passthrough charging Price When Reviewed: $99.99 Best Prices Today: $50 at B&H$78.04 at Walmart$99.49 at Amazon Colors: Space Gray, Silver Ports: USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, UHS-I microSD, SD card, 3.5mm audio Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: The HDMI port means you can add an external display, and it can handle 4K displays at 60Hz, although that might be a push if you are using all the other ports at the same time. This good-looking hub, with built-in USB-C connector, features a grip that secures it onto an iPad Pro without damaging the surface. However, you can remove the grip if you use a third-party iPad case. It connects direct to the iPad but handily also comes with a USB-C extender cable so you can use it as a USB-C hub for your MacBook or another USB-C device, too. It can charge a device at up to 60W. It’s also lightweight at just 33g (1.16oz) and at 3.66-x-1.3-x-0.39in (9.3-x-3.3-x-1cm) it’s small enough to slip into a pocket. If you don’t need the memory card readers, the $59.99 HyperDrive 4-in-1 USB-C Hub for iPad, available in either Silver or Space Gray, adds four ports: 4K 30Hz HDMI, 60W USB-C power delivery, 5Gbps USB-A, and 3.5mm audio jack. It weighs just 1.34oz (38g). Twelve South StayGo mini – smallest USB-C hub for iPad Pros 4 ports inc HDMI Super small and lightweight 85W passthrough charging Direct fit to iPad Cons Slower USB-A 4K at 30Hz No card reader Price When Reviewed: $59.99 Best Prices Today: $59.75 at Walmart$59.99 at Amazon$59.99 at B&H Colors: Black Ports:  USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (85W), USB-A (480MBbps, 7.5W), HDMI 2.0, Audio Out Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: This small hub can connect to your iPad (or MacBook) via either the integrated USB-C connector or a detachable cable (20in). The cable is useful if your iPad is in a protective case, and you could use your own longer cable if required. StayGo mini adds just four ports, but enough for you to attach an external display (4K at 30Hz), a USB-A device and headphones as well as powering your tablet or laptop at the same time–especially handy for tablets that have just the one port. It weighs just 36g and measures 2.8-x-1.25-x-0.3in (72-x-32-x-8mm), making it the smallest USB-C iPad hub we have tested. The USB-A port is USB 2.0, so limited to 480Mbps data transfer compared to the 5Gbps on offer on some of the other hubs reviewed here. Twelve South also sells a less-mini but still highly portable StayGo USB-C hub that boasts nine ports, including Gigabit Ethernet and SD and Micro USB card readers alongside the HDMI, USB-A and USB-C passthrough power delivery. Satechi USB-C Mobile Pro Hub SD – lightest USB-C hub Pros 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD 4K at 60Hz Direct fit to iPad 60W passthrough charging Cons UHS I SD speed Price When Reviewed: $69.99 Best Prices Today: $58.99 at Amazon$69.99 at B&H$69.99 at Satechi Colors: Space Gray Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers, 3.5mm audio Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: This is the lightest USB-C hub we tested weighing just 33g (1.16oz). Its dimensions are 3.85-x-1.45-x-0.4in (98-x-37-x-11mm) so It’s a little bigger than the Twelve South StayGo mini but a few grams lighter, and includes both SD and microSD card reader slots, which are lacking from the StayGo. The HDMI port can push a 4K monitor at 60Hz. And the hub can charge a device at up to 60W via the USB-C PD passthrough charger port. It ships with a detachable USB-C extension cable if you want to use it with a device other than an iPad or use with an iPad in a case. Satechi also sells a slightly cheaper USB-C Mobile Pro Hub that doesn’t include the card readers. Kensington StudioDock iPad Docking Station – best stand/dock for iPad Pros 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD 4K at 60Hz Wireless device charging Stand Cons Not height adjustable Price When Reviewed: $289.99 Best Prices Today: $99.95 at Amazon$199.99 at Kensington Colors: Space Gray Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers, 3.5mm audio Compatible with: K39160WW StudioDock: 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2018/2020/2021 and 2022 models); K34031WW StudioDock: 11-inch iPad Pro (2018/2020/2021 and 2022 models) and iPad Air (2020/2022) but not with the 10.9-inch (10th generation) iPad; K34030WW StudioDock: 2.9-inch iPad Pro (2018/2020). For the ultimate iPad hub, enter the Kensington StudioDock—a full-featured docking station that’s also a good-looking 120-degree tilting stand that will raise your iPad up to 13cm from the desk. StudioDock turns your iPad into a desktop workstation, with attached peripherals, charging and external display. The iPad magnetically attaches in either portrait or landscape mode and will even fast-charge your iPhone (7.5W) and AirPods (5W) at its base; you can also add an optional Apple Watch charging module for the full Apple experience.   The iPad is connected via USB-C with 37.5W charging and 5Gbps data transfer. The latest iPad Pro uses USB4/Thunderbolt 4 but it is backwards compatible with USB-C, although some of its 40Gbps will be lost in the connection. At the back a single HDMI 2.0 video output connects your iPad to an external 4K or HD display at 60Hz; maximum resolution is 3840 x 2160. Alongside the HDMI are three 5Gbps USB-A ports (slightly underpowered at just 4.5W) and Gigabit Ethernet for wired Internet access. To the side is a fast UHS-II SD 4.0 card reader, which adds portable storage to your iPad when connected, and a 5Gbps USB-C port (15W). There is also a combo 3.5mm audio jack here. The included power supply can offer up to 135W. StudioDock is available in three models, so make sure you select the right one; see compatibility list above. Satechi 6-in-1 Aluminum Stand & Hub – best mini USB-C dock Pros 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD 4K at 60Hz Built-in iPad stand Foldable Cons Bulkier than most Price When Reviewed: $99.99 Best Prices Today: $99.99 at Amazon$99.99 at B&H$99.99 at Satechi Colors: Space Gray Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI (4K at 60Hz), 3.5mm audio, and UHS-I microSD and SD Card readers Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: Combining both a stand and a handy array of easy-access ports at the back, this iPad Pro hub raises your iPad to a better angle for viewing and Zoom calls as well as enabling simple device connection. It folds into a neat portable package (283g, 10oz), and connects to the iPad with its integrated USB-C cable so everything is included.  Plugable USB-C Docking Station (UDS-7IN1) – best budget stand/dock for iPad Pros 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD Light, portable stand Cons Not height adjustable 4K at 30Hz Price When Reviewed: $69 Best Prices Today: $59.95 at Amazon$59.95 at B&H$59.95 at Walmart Colors: Space Gray Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/91W), 2x USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers, 3.5mm audio Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: A more affordable hub/stand alternative to the mighty Kensington StudioDock is the Plugable USB-C Docking Station, which is both a USB-C dock and a convenient stand for up to a 12.9-inch iPad Pro. It features two old-school USB-A ports, HDMI 1.4 port, both SD and MicroSD card readers and a combination In/Out audio port. It connects to the iPad via its USB-C port, and a 20-inch (50cm) USB-C cable is included. At the back, alongside the HDMI port is another USB-C port that you can connect to a USB-C wall charger to allow up to 91W charging for the connected device—plenty for even the hungriest iPad. The USB-A ports aren’t really built for charging connected devices, so are limited to 4.5W charging. With the HDMI 1.4 port you can connect a 4K external display at 30Hz. Gamers and streamers might prefer a hub with at least HDMI 2.0 to get the smoothest 60Hz screen refresh rates, but for general productivity usage 30Hz is perfectly acceptable. Made of aluminum, it’s light enough (303g) to be carried around and it folds up for added portability points. The iPad can be tilted on the stand for the best viewing angles. iPadOS 16.1 or later is required for using Stage Manager to extend your laptop screen to the iPad. StarTech.com USB-C Multiport Adapter – best USB-C hub for passthrough charging Pros 5 ports inc HDMI 92W passthrough charging 4K at 60Hz Direct fit to iPad Cons No card reader Price When Reviewed: $39.99 Best Prices Today: $29.99 at Amazon$39.99 at Startech.com Colors: Space Gray, silver Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/92W), USB-A (5Gbps), USB-A (5Gbps, BC 1.2 Fast Charge), HDMI, 3.5mm audio Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: The 92W passthrough charging is impressive. Although this may be overkill when used with a tablet, it makes a big difference when you use it with a laptop. The HDMI port means you can add an external display, and it can handle 4K displays at 60Hz. This compact hub, with built-in USB-C connector, is the lightest we have tested, at just 44g (1.5oz). It’s also small, at 3.5-x-1.3-x-0.3in (90-x-32-x-8.5mm). As well as the HDMI and audio port, it features two USB-A ports, one for data (5Gbps) and one for fast charging (7.5W). HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Media Hub for iPad Pro/Air – best USB-C hub for media controls Pros 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD 4K at 60Hz Media controls Direct fit to iPad Cons Longer than most Price When Reviewed: $99.99 Best Prices Today: $32.99 at Best Buy$99.96 at Amazon$99.99 at Hyper Colors: Gray Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), one USB-A (5Gbps), one HDMI 2.0 port, UHS-I SD and microSD Card readers, 3.5mm audio, Play/Pause/Fast-forward/Rewind buttons Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: Alongside the handy extra ports, this mini hub adds a row of large Play/Pause/Fast-forward/Rewind buttons on the top for media control of your movies, songs or podcasts without interrupting your workflow. We’ve seen faster ports on the other hubs reviewed here, but it’s the media buttons that make the difference here. It can connect in a tight fit to the iPad or via a detachable longer 2in cable if you need the extra length. At 3.85-x-1.14-x-0.47in (9.8-x-2.9-x-1.2cm), it’s a little longer than other iPad hubs tested here, but it’s lightweight at just 1.62oz (46g). Baseus 8-in-1 USB-C Hub Pros 8 ports inc HDMI, Ethernet and SD/microSD 92W passthrough charging Three USB ports Cons Cable fit to iPad 4K at 30Hz Larger than most Price When Reviewed: $39.99 Best Prices Today: $35.99 at Amazon$39.99 at Baseus Colors: Gray Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/100W), three USB-A (5Gbps), one HDMI 2.0 port, UHS-I SD and microSD Card readers, Gigabit Ethernet Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: The Baseus 8-in-1 USB-C Hub does not fit directly to the iPad, as it’s more of a general USB-C hub that can work with any USB-C computer. While that may be a negative point in terms of neatness, it does mean this has more ports than most other hubs reviewed here. The integrated USB-C cable itself is quite neat, with its end stored in a special slot, creating a handy loop to keep things tidy. At 132mm long and 82g in weight, it’s larger than most but still highly portable. Its eights ports include Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI (although 4K at 30Hz rather than 60Hz), three 5Gbps USB-A ports, passthrough charging at 100W (overkill for a tablet but great if you also use it with a laptop), and both SD and MicroSD card readers. Baseus has a varied but almost overwhelming range of cabled USB-C hubs on Amazon US, Amazon Canada, and Amazon UK so you can pick out only the ports you need. Caldigit USB-C SOHO Dock Pros 7 ports inc HDMI, DisplayPort and SD/microSD Fast USB-C ports 4K at 60Hz Small for a dock Cons Large for an iPad hub Price When Reviewed: $79.99 Best Prices Today: $79.99 at Amazon$79.99 at CalDigit Colors: Silver Ports:  USB-C (to iPad), USB-C (10Gbps), USB-C PD (10Gbps/100W), USB-A (10Gbps), DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, UHS II SD, UHS II microSD Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: Coming with a separate USB-C cable, this aluminium mini dock has the highest-spec ports. Although pretty small (3.66-x-2.53-x-0.75in or 93-x-64.3-x-19mm) for a docking station, it’s larger than the dedicated iPad hubs tested here, so there’s space for both DisplayPort and HDMI ports so you can choose your preferred connection to add an external display to the iPad. As the cable is detachable, you can use your own longer cable if necessary, but you’ll need one rated to handle 10Gbps. And because of the high bandwidth, the dock can easily handle a 4K display at 60Hz, even with other ports in use. Read the full Caldigit SOHO Dock review. CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 Element Hub – best Thunderbolt 4 hub for multiple USB devices Pros Four Thunderbolt 4 ports Four fast USB-A ports 5K at 60Hz Multiple external displays Cons No card reader Large for an iPad hub Price When Reviewed: $199.95 Best Prices Today: $199.95 at Amazon$199.95 at CalDigit Colors: Space Gray Ports:  Upstream Thunderbolt 4 (to iPad; 60W PD), three downstream Thunderbolt (40Gbps, 15W), four USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W) Compatible with: All USB-C iPads Why we love it: Apple’s iPad Pro (2021) models use 40Gbps Thunderbolt rather than 5Gbps USB-C, so to gain that full bandwidth a Thunderbolt hub is the best you can get. This is a hub that you can also use for maximum MacBook bandwidth as well as with your iPad Pro. Choosing a hub or dock with the latest Thunderbolt 4 connection standard makes perfect sense as TB4 is backwards compatible with USB-C and so will work with any USB-C iPad too. You won’t find more modern USB ports on a hub than you get here, and they are all rated at top speeds. As such, it’s larger than other dedicated iPad hubs, measuring 4.48-x-2.74-x-0.7in (114-x-70-18mm) and weighing 6.2oz (180g). Recommended if you require multiple devices to connect to your iPad, and if you use it with a MacBook, too. Read the Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 Element Hub review. Choosing a USB-C hub With a hub you can add extra USB ports (Type-C and the older Type-A), SD and MicroSD card readers, gigabit ethernet, wired headphones, cameras, keyboards, and more. You can also connect your USB-C iPad to your computer or to an external display using a hub’s USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort outputs. The latest iPad Pro models (with Thunderbolt/USB4) can even connect to Apple’s Pro Display XDR display. Some USB-C hubs are specially designed for the iPad (and fit neatly with the need for a long cable connection), but you can also use an array of generic USB-C hubs. And you can take it one step further with a full docking station that can also work with your laptop. Depending on which model you buy, a hub or dock connects to the iPad and offers an array of extra ports. USB-C Whatever hub you buy will use up the iPad’s sole port, so you’ll need at least one extra USB-C port on the hub for pass-through charging, as you don’t want your tablet’s battery to fade mid use. Make sure at least one of the hub’s USB-C ports is capable of Power Delivery (PD) for charging. And look for high charging power if there is a maximum wattage on the hub. The iPad requires at least a 20W charger for fast charging, which all the hubs can handle but a more powerful charger may enable speeds up to 30W. More USB-C ports on the hub mean you can use them for more modern peripherals and an external display that connects via a USB-C cable. The minimum data-transfer bandwidth of USB 3 is 5Gbps, so this is the most common speed on hubs, but some offer 10Gbps that is more capable for things like connecting an external monitor. In Apple’s latest (2024) iPad line-up, the iPad mini has a 5Gbps USB-C port, while the standard iPad has a USB-C port with a much slower USB 2 data-transfer rate of just 480Mbps. The iPad Air has 10Gbps bandwidth, and the iPad Pro uses 40Gbps Thunderbolt, see below. Thunderbolt The M1/M2/M4 iPad Pro boasts the more capable Thunderbolt connection. It uses the USB-C connector, but Thunderbolt has bandwidth up to 40Gbps compared to just 5Gbps or 10Gbps for USB. Thunderbolt hubs and docks are more expensive than their simpler USB-C cousins, but power users will benefit from the extra bandwidth. For example, a Thunderbolt hub or dock can use this bandwidth to connect a 4K display running at 60Hz and still have data-transfer capacity for other devices such as hard drives. USB-A Universal and reversible, USB-C is a great connector, but most of us still have a few devices that connect via the more common Type-A USB port, such as flash memory sticks, hard drives, and input devices. USB-A ports are used mainly for lower-powered devices, but the ports do come in different speeds. USB 2.0 is the slowest at 480Mbps. USB 3.2 Gen 1 is rated at 5Gbps and USB 3.2 Gen 2 is 10Gbps. Some hubs boast multiple USB-A ports, so consider how many you might need to use at the same time. SD and microSD Card readers You can connect a camera or a card reader directly to the iPad’s USB-C port, but a more flexible option is to use a hub with either an SD or microSD Card reader, and many hubs have both. These little memory cards are also an inexpensive portable storage and backup solution, with capacities of up to 1TB. Look for the faster UHS-II type reader, which can handle up to 312MBps data transfer, compared to UHS-II’s maximum 104MBps. Gigabit ethernet Wired internet or network access is much faster than WiFi, so if you’re using your iPad at a desk, make sure the hub you choose has a gigabit ethernet port. Otherwise, you’ll need to use a USB-C-to-gigabit ethernet adapter that plugs directly into your iPad. Audio If you want to hook up some wired headphones or a microphone, look for a hub with 3.5mm audio jack port since none of Apple’s current iPad range has one. Some older iPads have an audio port. External displays A hub is basically essential when using an external display because the iPad has just one USB-C port and you can’t simultaneously charge the tablet at the same time. So, you’ll want to look for a hub with either two USB-C ports (one for charging) or a hub with an HDMI or DisplayPort (or even VGA if you have an older display). It you want to mirror your iPad’s screen to a larger one, it’s possible to connect an external display direct with a USB-C cable, but unless the monitor has its own USB-C input, look for a hub with a DisplayPort or HDMI port. Using a hub’s USB-C port, you will need either a USB-C-to-HDMI or USB-C-to-DisplayPort cable or adapter. For general productivity purposes, 30Hz screen rates are acceptable for 4K monitors, but 60Hz is better for gaming or action-graphics video. Depending on the cable, you might get varied refresh rates. It’s a little confusing, but for the most part, 5Gbps USB-C is mostly limited to 30Hz (but can be pushed to 60Hz if the bandwidth is not taken up by the other ports), a 10Gbps USB-C connection should allow 60Hz 4K, and Thunderbolt will easily push 6K displays with high refresh rates. Docks and Hubs, Tablet Accessories

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Download the new M2 iPad Air and M4 iPad Pro wallpapers right here
Both the new and M4 iPad Pro, which were announced last week, come with a bunch of upgrades. They also come with exclusive new wallpapers that aren’t available for previous iPad models – but you can download them for any device right here. more…

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The long wait for the next iPad mini might be even longer
Macworld After unveiling the new iPad Air and iPad Pro lines, cutting the 9th-gen iPad, and dropping the price of the 10th-gen iPad, inquiring minds want to know when Apple is going to give the iPad mini its overdue refresh. Unfortunately, it might be a while. According to Mark Bloomberg’s latest Power On newsletter, the iPad mini won’t be updated “until the end of this year at the earliest.” The iPad mini has had something of a sporadic update schedule since its 2012 debut. After an annual update schedule for the first 4 years, Apple has released just two updates in the past nine years, including a three-and-a-half-year gap between the 4th and 5th generations: iPad mini (1st-gen): October 2012 iPad mini 2: October 2013 iPad mini 3: October 2014 iPad mini 4: September 2015 iPad mini (5th-gen): March 2019 iPad mini (6th-gen): September 2021 A fall release would make it three years since Apple last updated the iPad mini and a spring 2025 release would rival the 5th-gen model for the longest time between updates. However, previous reports have claimed that Apple is planning to update the entire iPad line this year, so the new mini may very well make an appearance alongside the iPhone 16 in September. The 7th-gen iPad mini is expected to be a similar refresh to the iPad Air, with a faster chip, new colors, and a landscape front camera. Stay up to date with the latest rumors with our iPad mini 7 superguide. iPad

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Insane iPad AI tutor demo points to an incredible new world for students
If you haven’t yet watched yesterday’s OpenAI event, I highly recommend doing so. The headline news was that the latest GPT-4o model works seamlessly with any combination of text, audio, and video. That includes the ability to ‘show’ the GPT-4o app a screen recording you are taking of another app – and it’s this capability the company showed off with a pretty insane iPad AI tutor demo … more…

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Insane iPad AI tutor demo points to an incredible new world for students
If you haven’t yet watched yesterday’s OpenAI event, I highly recommend doing so. The headline news was that the latest GPT-4o model works seamlessly with any combination of text, audio, and video. That includes the ability to ‘show’ the GPT-4o app a screen recording you are taking of another app – and it’s this capability the company showed off with a pretty insane iPad AI tutor demo … more…

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iPad and Mac don't compete against each other, so buy both says Apple exec
Following reviews saying that iPadOS limitations mean the new iPad Pro can't easily replace a MacBook Pro, Apple insists the two devices are complementary.The new iPad Pro superimposed on a MacBook Pro screenIn other words, buy both. The issue of iPadOS seemingly not being as capable as the hardware in the iPad Air and iPad Pro, was brought up by all reviews of the new version.However, Joanna Stern of the Wall Street Journal got to press an Apple executive about how hampered the iPad Pro feels with iPadOS. And how even though in certain circumstances the new iPad Pro can actually out-perform a MacBook Pro, she says it can't be someone's sole computing device. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple’s rare iPad misstep is a symptom of a much larger problem
Macworld When did being able to read the room become a lost art? The arc of backlash to Apple’s “Crush” ad was wild to observe. The Macalope’s first reaction to it was thinking it missed the mark as a metaphor. Destroying the creative arts to make an iPad was not the right way to get across the creative things you can do with an iPad, and many other, better metaphors could have been used. But he certainly didn’t think it’d be met with the staunch opposition it has, an opposition that ultimately led to the company apologizing and canceling plans to show the ad on TV. Sure, Apple’s always had its detractors, a swath of people who are always happy to tell the company that whatever it’s doing, it’s doing it wrong. But this time the calls were coming from inside the house. Apple “crushed” creativity and one of the company’s most notable customer groups is people who work (or play) in the arts. If misery loves company, Apple should have a beer with Sonos. Sonos ran afoul of its customers by shipping an entirely new version of its app, one missing key features. Fortunately, the company had a sure-fire way to reassure its fans: It takes courage [emphasis added] to rebuild a brand’s core product from the ground up, and to do so knowing it may require taking a few steps back to ultimately leap into the future. Sonos chief product officer Maxime Bouvat-Merlin in a statement to The Verge Brilliant. Because that “courage” thing worked so well for Apple. These are just the most recent examples, but it seems like something of a trend. From angry reactions to ads and apps, to AI backlash, to widespread government action against big companies, tech is going from everyone’s darling to public enemy number… well, one may be stretching it. Cybertruck owners are still higher, at least. And Gary. He’s way up there. Yes, he also owns a Cybertruck, but he was way up on the list before that. So, no, not number one, but higher than it was. Part of this may be a feeling of wondering what tech has done for us lately. Large companies continue to churn out the same products we’ve always loved. And we still love them. While some small companies still manage to surprise us, the startup community is now so smothered by venture capital firms, that it only produces products venture capitalists want to see. This leads to abject failures like the Humane pin and the Rabbit R1. Apple continues to make great products, but we are used to smartphones, tablets, computers, and heck, even smart speakers now. The Macalope isn’t saying innovation at Apple is dead. He’d have to punch himself in the face if he did that. And he doesn’t like punching himself in the face. At. All. Tried it once and you know what? Not for him. Not to be controversial. But the last new Apple product of note (sorry, HomePod) that was for “everyone” was probably AirPods, which came out eight years ago. Whether the Vision Pro is a good product or not is rather moot for most people. If you make a great product and no one can afford it because they’re already spending $1,000 and up for your smartphone, it doesn’t exactly move the needle of goodwill in your direction. Services help a little bit, but people are savvy enough to know that Apple doesn’t make the shows on TV+ itself and people are already suffering from streaming service fatigue as they all race to increase subscription prices. IDG IDG IDG Many products tech is producing are not for people, they’re for other companies, and many of them are decidedly anti-people. Corporations are salivating at the opportunity to use AI not to make experiences better but on the customer-facing end to mine those interactions and internally to be able to lay off more workers, something which Wall Street has an increasingly insatiable appetite for. Humans went from sacrificing people to volcanos to building their own volcanoes to sacrifice people. That was not how civilization was supposed to work. In Apple’s case, at least it was only metaphorically crushing creativity. It was definitely a bad metaphor, but there are worse crimes you can commit against creativity. The company still has a wonderful ability to deliver products that “the rest of us” like and the 10th generation iPad, the MacBook Air, and the Mac mini are arguably the greatest bang-for-the-buck computing products you can buy. But customer goodwill is about the most valuable asset a company could have. Better not crush it. See? Because of the ad? Yeah, you got it. Apple Inc, iPad

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Logic Pro for iPad is now out with AI Stem Splitter and Session Players
The update to Logic Pro for iPad 2 announced at Apple's "Let Loose" event is now available on the App Store, as is the matching Mac app.Logic Pro for iPad 2 is now available on the App StoreLogic Pro for iPad was already an exceptional Digital Audio Workstation app before Apple announced an updated version alongside a still forthcoming Final Cut Pro for iPad 2. It was later revealed that the Mac version of Logic Pro would be getting the same updates, and that has now launched too.Apple's senior vice president of marketing, Greg Joswiak, announced the availability on Twitter. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple releases macOS Sonoma 14.5 updates, appears to largely focus on bug fixes over new features
It may not be a huge update, but it’s out the door. Apple on Monday released its macOS Sonoma 14.5 update, which appears to have very few visible updates and could largely be considered a series of bug fixes. Among the issues that appear to have been fixed is a bug wherein certain FaceTime users […] Source

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One of the last roadblocks to selling Apple Vision Pro in China has been lifted
In one of the last steps needed before an electronic device goes on sale, the Chinese safety regulators have approved the Apple Vision Pro for sale in the country.A screenshot from Taobao's visionOS app [Weibo]The "China Compulsory Certificate" (CCC) is issued similarly to the European CE or United States Underwriter's Laboratory symbols. CCC approval is mandatory to have, before being bought, sold, or imported into the Chinese commercial markets.And, as spotted by leaker Instant Digital on Weibo, CCC approval has been granted to Apple for the Apple Vision Pro. This is one of the last steps that a device manufacturer must take, before selling a device in the country. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Stay one step ahead of Mother Nature with this $40 app’s real-time radar
Macworld Weather is no joke, and it’s one of many important things you need to consider prior to traveling, whether that’s locally or beyond. If you’re concerned about potential summer heatwaves, severe storms, and more, invest in Weather Hi-Def Radar. This platform offers accurate real-time and future forecasts, as well as detailed imagery for clouds, wind speeds, snowfall, etc. Now, lifetime access to this app is only $39.99 (reg. $149). Offering a simple and intuitive interface, users will get easy-to-read and interactive satellite maps with all the most accurate live and predictive weather radar visuals. You can also set specific notifications for precipitation and severe weather. You’ll have comprehensive weather forecasts for the next ten days at your fingertips, including temperature predictions, rainfall and snowfall totals, hurricane and tornado updates, and other critical weather conditions going down in any given area. Weather Hi-Def Radar (4.6-star rated on the App Store!) also offers overlay imagery to put weather conditions into valuable context, highlighting important details like when roads get icy, when tropical storms are at their peak, or when wildfires, earthquakes, or even air quality pose a threat.  Stay abreast of current and future weather conditions with a lifetime subscription to Weather Hi-Def Radar Storm Watch Plus, now just $39.99. That’s the best price online!   Weather Hi-Def Radar Storm Watch Plus: Lifetime Subscription Only $39.99 at Macworld StackSocial prices subject to change. Accessories

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Apple @ Work Podcast: Pull requests are welcome
Apple @ Work is exclusively brought to you by Mosyle, the only Apple Unified Platform. Mosyle is the only solution that integrates in a single professional-grade platform all the solutions necessary to seamlessly and automatically deploy, manage & protect Apple devices at work. Over 45,000 organizations trust Mosyle to make millions of Apple devices work-ready with no effort and at an affordable cost. Request your EXTENDED TRIAL today and understand why Mosyle is everything you need to work with Apple. In this episode of Apple @ Work, I talk with Mike McNeil from Fleet about their new maintenance windows feature. more…

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Apple releases iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5 updates, includes EU app updates, cross-platform detection changes, other new features
Apple on Monday released its iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5, two major updates to its mobile operating systems that emerged more than two months after the launch of iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4. The updates include the following fixes, changes, and new features: Some features may not be available for all regions or on all […] Source

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Setapp's third-party EU app store to launch on May 14
Mac and iOS app subscription service Setapp has confirmed the launch date for its alternative app marketplace in the European Union.Setapp is an app subscription serviceAfter first announcing in August 2023 that it would launch an alternative App Store in the EU once laws allowed it, Setapp then launched a beta iOS store for developers and a wait list for users in February 2024. The company now says that the beta test will conclude shortly, and that its Setapp Marketplace will be live from May 14, 2024.The announcement was made solely through social media, with just the words, "It's coming. May 14. Stay tuned." The words were accompanied by an trio of app icons for Apple's Calendar and Safari apps, and Setapp's own app. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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iOS 17 superguide: Eveything you need to know about the latest update
Macworld Apple launched new iPhones in 2023, but there was also an iPhone update available for all iPhones from the iPhone XR up: iOS 17. The iOS 17 software update was made available to hundreds of millions of iPhones on Monday, September 18, 2023. New features in iOS 17 include contact posters, NameDrop, StandBy, Live Voicemail, FaceTime video voicemail, a whole new Siri voice recognition model, huge improvements to autocorrect and dictation, and a lot more. It’s almost like getting a new iPhone without paying a penny. In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about iOS 17, including all the features and any issues that arise, as well as keeping tabs on the latest version and what is coming in the next update. Development of iOS 17 is likely to slow down now that Apple is working on iOS 18 development. We expect to learn more about the next version of iOS at WWDC in June. Update May 14: Apple has released iOS 17.5, read on to find out what’s included. iOS 17: What’s the latest version? The initial iOS 17 release was on September 18, but just days later on September 21 Apple issued iOS 17.0.1 with three zero-day security patches that “may have been actively exploited”. More information here: Apple pushes out critical iOS 17.0.1 update just days after iOS 17 release. That same day there was a iOS 17.0.2 update for iPhone 15 models that fixed a bug for new iPhone buyers. Some users who bought new iPhone 15 models discovered that they were not able to transfer data from an old iPhone during the new iPhone setup process. This same fix was then issued for other iPhones on September 27. All new iPhones should be updated to iOS 17.0.2 before attempting a data transfer from an old iPhone. iOS 17.0.3 arrived on October 4 with a fix for a problem that was causing iPhones to overheat–specifically the iPhone 15 Pro. There are also two security fixes, more here: iOS 17.0.3 is out with iPhone 15 Pro overheating fix and security updates. Next up was iOS 17.1, which arrived on October 25. New features include improvements to AirDrop (file transfers continue over the internet when you are out of range), new StandBy options, Favorites in Music and a number of bug and security fixes. Then iOS 17.1.1 arrived, which was a minor update fixing a couple of bugs. One bug related to Apple Pay and other NFC features becoming unavailable on iPhone 15 models after wireless charging in BMW cars, the other bug related to the Weather Lock Screen widget which might not correctly display snow. iOS 17.1.2 on November 30 fixed a couple of WebKit security vulnerabilities that have been exploited in the wild. WebKit being the browser engine used by Safari. iOS 17.2 arrived on December 11 and included the Journal app, new Weather and Clock widgets, and Stickers for Message reactions. On January 22 Apple released iOS 17.3. The update includes a new Stolen Device Protection feature that should make it harder for thieves to mess up your digital life using a stolen passcode. iOS 17.3 also includes an important security patch for a zero-day vulnerability that may have been exploited. Apple released iOS 17.4 on March 5, just before the deadline to comply with the Digital Markets Act in the EU. It included mandated changes to allow app developers to distribute apps outside of Apple’s App Store and use payment systems other than Apple’s. These changes come with a new fee and commission structure that developers say are meant to force developers into continuing to use Apple’s App Store and payments. It also adds transcriptions to podcasts in the Podcasts app, improved iMessage encryption, new emojis, and more. iOS 17.5 arrived on May 13. It included tracker detection, News app updates, and lots of security fixes. New for News+ subscribers is an Offline mode, Quartiles – a new daily word game, and Scoreboard that displays your mini-game, crossword and Quartiles data. There is also Cross-Platform Tracking Detection, which will alert users is a (compatible) Bluetooth tracker is with them, similar to how an alert is shown if an AirTag is detected near you, allowing you to block it. The updates will probably slow down now that Apple is working iOS 18 – which will be unveiled at WWDC in June and available to the public in September. But minor point releases for bug fixes and security updates will continue, and it is still possible we will see a major release that adds new features. iOS 16 and iOS 15 are still receiving security updates, as will iOS 17 once iOS 18 launches. iOS 17 beta: What’s the latest iOS beta? Apple has run a beta program since it revealed the details of iOS 17 at WWDC. Despite the full version of iOS 17 being available to the public, the beta testing continues. On May 13 Apple released iOS 17.5. It’s not clear yet if Apple will start development work on iOS 17.6 or if work on iOS 18, which will be unveiled at WWDC in June, will now take over. We expect bug fixes and security updates for iOS 17 to continue though. If you’d like to join the beta for the next version of iOS read this: How to join Apple’s beta program and try out new software. If you’d like to receive iOS beta updates read How to get the iOS beta on your iPhone. We also describe how to revert from iOS beta to a non-beta version of iOS for those testers who wish to use the non-beta version of iOS. iOS 17.5 New features Along with updates to the News app for News+ subscribers (including a new word game), there are 15 security updates in iOS 17.5. The security updates cover frameworks like AppleAVD (the audio and video decoder), FindMy, Maps, Notes, screenshots, WebKit, and more. iOS 17.4 New features Here are the new features in iOS 17.4 (some are EU only): Open door: In the EU there will be 600 new APIs to enable developers to offer their iOS apps for download from alternative app marketplaces. There will also be expanded app analytics, functionality for alternative browser engines, access to NFC for mobile payment systems, and options for processing app payments and distributing iOS apps outside the App Store. Security: Because Apple believes that allowing apps to be installed from outside the App Store is risky to the user, new app safety features will be introduced that are designed to mitigate the risks. These include notarization for iOS and app installation sheets. Marketplace developers will also require authorization. There will also be increased malware protections. New emoji: This one is for everyone, not just those in the EU. A number of new emojis are coming in iOS 17.4. These emoji are part of the Emoji version 15.1 and include: Broken Chain, Brown Mushroom, Head Shaking Horizontally, Head Shaking Vertically, Lime, Phoenix, as well as four new non-gender-specifying family emoji and six different alternative-direction emoji that offer a total of 108 combinations. Apple Music “Home” tab: The tab formerly labeled “Listen Now” will become “Home.” Stolen Device Protection: Users can now choose to always require a delay when changing security settings, not just when away from familiar locations. Podcast transcripts: The Podcast app can provide auto-generated transcripts in English, French, German, and Spanish for podcast episodes (or podcasters can supply their own transcripts). Stopwatch live activity: You can select a Live Activity with the stopwatch running. Significant security update for iMessage: Apple will use post-quantum cryptography to attain the highest-ever encryption. CarPlay and Apple Maps update: If your car supports dual-screen CarPlay a new instrument cluster experience with information about upcoming maneuvers will be included with the iOS 17.4 update. iOS 17.3: New features Here are the new features in iOS 17.3: Collaborative Playlists for Apple Music: This feature was expected for iOS 17.2, but took until iOS 17.3 to appear. Collaborative Playlists for Apple Music, allow you to create, edit and share playlists with others. AirPlay in supporting hotels is enabled. Stolen Device Protection: This optional security feature can limit what can be done on your iPhone if your six-digit passcode is entered when not at a familiar location like your home or work. This is designed to make it harder for thieves to access important information. The settings for this are found in Settings  > Face ID & Passcode iOS 17.2: New features These are the features that arrived in iOS 17.2: Journal app: The new app is coming in iOS 16.2. The app is a bit like a diary in which you can record things that happen to you. It can be locked using Face ID/Touch ID. Change default alert sound: You’ll be able to go to Settings > Sound & Haptics > Default Alerts to change the default sound for alerts and notifications. News app: The News app will support Live Activities. Apple Music: You will be able to disable the listening history in Apple Music so it doesn’t impact Apple Music suggestions. You can listen to a new Favorites playlist based on tracks you have marked as Favorite, and it’s easier to get to the songs you’ve marked as Favourite in Apple Music. TV app: There will no longer be separate Movies and TV Shows tabs. Just a Store tab. Improved Telephoto camera focusing speed for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Spatial video recording for Apple Vision Pro. iMessage Contact Key Verification gains extra security options. Emergency Alerts: A new “Local Awareness” option to improve the reliability of alerts. Action button on iPhone 15 Pro/Max will get a new Translate option. Weather and Clock widgets: There are three new widgets for the Weather app and one for the Clock app a Sensitive Content. A new Digital Clock widget is available for the Home screen and StandBy. Messages: You can now react to iMessages with any emoji or sticker. Warning for stickers if you have enabled it for Messages. New catch up button to go to first unread message. Memoji: There’s a new Body section so you can customize full body details. Weather: View rain and snow amounts. Wind map. Moon calendar. Wireless charging: The iPhones 13 and 14 will gain support for Qi2 wireless charging. With Qi2 support, you’ll get 15W charging even when you aren’t using MagSafe chargers. There are also a number of bug fixes including AirDrop improvements and a fix for an issue that may prevent wireless charging in certain vehicles. iOS 17.1: New features The following new features arrived in iOS 17.1 on October 25. New StandBy settings give users a choice of when the display should turn off (automatically, after 20 seconds or never). The Watch app gains options to control double-tap for Apple Watch. Apple Music gains a new Favorites feature as well as collaborative Apple Music playlists. New Generic artwork available for Apple Music playlists. The Continue AirDrop over the internet feature will mean that you don’t have to keep your iPhones together while transferring data. iOS 17.1 also addresses the iPhone 12 radiation issue highlighted by the French government agency, Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR). Apple claims that France’s testing method does not allow for the off-body detection and increased connectivity power that Apple has employed on all iPhones for more than a decade, so the update will accommodate this specific test protocol. After this update, iPhone 12 users in France may notice reduced wireless performance when the signal is poor. Apple maintains that iPhone 12 models are safe to use. In addition, the update fixes a number of security flaws in Find My, Siri and the Weather app. More here: Apple’s iOS 17 update patches scary Find My, Siri, Weather flaws. That security fix has also been released for iOS 16 and iOS 15. iOS 17: Bugs and problems Overheating: Apple has addressed a problem that was causing the iPhone 15 Pro to overheat. The iOS 17.0.3 update is designed to fix this problem. Security: Apple issued an update to iOS 17 on September 21 to address some security flaws. Another security fix came on October 4. Wi-Fi: Another issue people sometimes encounter after updating the iOS is that their iPhone struggles to stay connected to Wi-Fi networks. Again, it’s worth restarting the iPhone if this happens. Alternatively, look at: How to stop an iPhone dropping Wi-Fi connection. Standby won’t show correct time zone: We encountered this issue (the clock was stuck in Cupertino). The fix was as follows: Long press the clock that appears in Standby mode Tap the + in the top left Add the clock widget with the correct time to the list iOS 17: How to install iOS 17 on your iPhone Installing iOS 17 couldn’t be simpler. Just follow these steps: Open the Settings app Tap General Tap Software Update On this screen you’ll see the version of iOS you have installed, and if a new version is available it will say so. It may say “Install Now” if the update was already downloaded in the background but not yet applied, or “Download and Install” if you haven’t even downloaded it yet. Just follow the instructions there to upgrade to iOS 17. You may need to re-agree to terms and conditions, and it will take several minutes to download, verify, and apply. Then your iPhone will restart, and you’ll be presented with some welcome screens that introduce new features. We have more information about installing iOS 17 and addressing any issues with it here: How to update to iOS 17 on your iPhone. If you install an update and want to revert to the previous version there is a very small window in which you can do that, but it can be done, read: How to downgrade iOS. iOS 17 Compatibility: Which phones can run the latest software? iOS 17 will not support the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, or the iPhone X. They are all able to run iOS 16 though, so they should get support through security updates for at least another year. The following iPhones get support for iOS 17, although some won’t support all of the new features: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max iPhone XR iPhone SE(2nd gen or later) Even if your chosen device is granted another year of software support, it’s worth noting that older iPhones may not get the full range of new features. In 2022, for example, the iPhone 8 and iPhone X missed out on a bunch of cool stuff due to their older processor. For more information take a look at every version of iOS released so far and find out which version of iOS your iPhone supports. iOS 17 Features: What’s new in iOS 17 There were many new features in iOS 16, including a redesigned Lock Screen, unsending iMessages, and the iCloud Shared Photo Library, but what is new in iOS 17? Initial rumors suggested that there would be “fewer major changes” than usual–but at WWDC 2023 Apple announced numerous new features for the update which we will describe below. You can also read our comparison of iOS 16 vs iOS 17 for an overview of what’s new. Not all the new features were available for the September launch though. At least five iOS 17 features weren’t ready including AirDrop over the Internet, the Journal app, Collaborative Apple Music playlists, AirPlay in hotel rooms, and NameDrop to Apple Watch. Some of these features arrived in subsequent software updates. You may like to read: iOS 17 features didn’t make the WWDC keynote and iOS 17 features that make us want to upgrade. Journal This is a brand new app that builds on Memories in Photos to bring a new way to relive special moments, remember and write about experiences with text, location, and photos, and more. There is also a Suggestions API for developers to use in their apps. The Journal app arrived in iOS 17.2 (see details above). StandBy This seems to borrow from the Apple Watch. Put the phone in landscape on a stand at night and see the time with a clock and a range of clock styles. You can also shuffle through your best photos, display widgets, and see Live Activities, like game scores. You can also choose Night Mode to display red text and minimize eye strain at night. Remember alarm clocks? It’s a bit like that. See: How to use StandBy to make a smart home hub Apple Apple Apple Contact Posters This will let you personalize how you appear in calls and on your contact card (since your custom contact card will show up in Contacts for your friends). You can customize your poster with images, fonts, and colors. This works with Call Kit so it can be used in third-party VOIP apps. See: How to create and customize your Contact Poster in iOS 17 Apple Apple Apple Live Voicemail If someone calls and leaves a message you will see a live transcript as they speak. That way you can see if you want to pick up or not. Read: How to use Live Voicemail in iOS 17. Apple Apple Apple Phone calls Apple made some changes to the Phone app. It replaced the Contacts button, moved the in-call buttons, and updated the icons. After a bit of a backlash, Apple moved the end-call button back to the middle midway through testing. FaceTime Apple added the ability to leave a video message in the FaceTime app when people don’t answer. You will also be able to take FaceTime calls on an Apple TV. Apple Apple Apple Messages The Messages app should feel faster, and search filters will let you add terms to a search to narrow the results. You’ll also be able to jump to the first unread message in a group chat, swipe to reply on any bubble, and automatically transcribe audio messages. A new Check-In feature will also let Family and Friends know if you’ve made it to a destination safely. Messages can recognize if you aren’t making progress toward the destination and prompt you to respond. If you don’t, it will share information with the selected contact, including your location, battery level, and cell service status. Additional Messages features arrived in iOS 17.2 including the ability to react to Messages with any emoji or sticker. There is also a new catch-up button to go straight to the first unread message. Ring Tones and Text Tones There are 24 new Ringtones in iOS 17 including Dollop, Kettle, Scavenger, Steps, Storytime, Unfold and Valley. To change the ringtone go to Sounds & Haptics, then tap Ringtone. New text tones include Cheers, Droplet, Portal, Slide and Welcome. Find them in Sounds & Haptics setting under Text Tone. Read more here: iOS 17 adds lots of new Ringtones and Text Tones Stickers All emoji across iOS 17 are now stickers that can be resized. Subjects from photos can be lifted out of photos and turned into stickers. You can turn live animated photos into Live Stickers. As of iOS 17.2 you will see Sensitive Content Warnings for stickers if you have enabled it for Messages. Here’s a look at the new emoji that could come to iOS 17 in 2024. Apple Apple Apple AirDrop Apple is changing the way AirDrop works it will be much simpler to use. You only need to bring your phones close together and you will be able to share information. You can easily choose the phone numbers and email addresses you want to share on an iPhone or Apple Watch. For example, if you want to share photos, just bring your phones close together. AirDrop improvements that arrived in iOS 17.2 included expanded contact sharing options and the ability to share boarding passes, movie tickets, and other eligible passes by bringing two iPhones together. Another AirDrop related change will come in a later update – the ability to start an AirDrop in person, but then leave before the transfer completes with the transfer finishing over the Internet. AirDrop over the Internet arrived in iOS 17.1. NameDrop A new feature that takes advantage of AirDrop is NameDrop, an easy way to exchange contact info. No more having to miss-call a new friend just so they have your number. You can even AirDrop to an Apple Watch. You can even AirDrop to an Apple Watch.Apple You can even AirDrop to an Apple Watch.Apple Apple Keyboard and Dictation Autocorrect is “more accurate than ever,” says Apple. Tap the underlined word to get the option to revert to the word you had typed. You can get predictions in line as you type and just tap the space bar to add them. Machine learning will also learn your writing style and adapt autocorrect accordingly. Additionally, Dictation leverages a new speech recognition model to make it even more accurate. Hey Siri You no longer need to say, “Hey” every time you want to summon Siri. Siri is powered by the new transformer model that the new dictation and autocorrect is, making it far more accurate and better able to understand what you mean. You can also make multiple requests in the same command. Photos The People album in iOS 17 uses on-device machine learning to recognize “more photos of a user’s favorite people” as well as cats and dogs. Safari and private browsing Apple’s web browser gains a new Profiles feature to allow a user to separate work-related browsing from other browsing. Profiles can be tied to Tab Groups and Favourites. Additionally, iOS 17 lets you pick a different default search engine for private browsing Search in Safari is more responsive, according to Apple, with “easier to read and more relevant suggestions”. The Safari update comes to iOS 16 and iOS 15 as well. Apple Music Collaborative Apple Music playlists arrived in Apple Music with the iOS 17.3 update. You’ll be able to share playlists with friends and they will be able to add, remove and reorder the songs. Smaller features There are also numerous smaller features that Apple didn’t mention in the keynote that are worth knowing about, including improvements to Spotlight search, Notes, Autofill, and Apple Music, see: How to set and adjust crossfade in Apple Music. Apple ID passkey Apple announced passkey support in iOS 16 but it’s going mainstream in iOS 17. In iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma, you’ll can log into your Apple ID with a passkey using Face ID or Touch ID on your iPhone instead of a password. iOS 17: Third-party app stores and sideloading Ahead of WWDC, there were reports that Apple would start to open up the iPhone in iOS 17, allowing the distribution of apps outside of Apple’s own App Store, the use of NFC for touchless payments beyond Apple Pay, browsers that don’t have to use Apple’s Webkit rendering engine, and more. It’s all necessary to comply with the EU’s new Digital Markets Act, and the expectation is that it will only apply to those iPhones running iOS 17 in the regions covered by EU law. This act will be law from March 6 and Apple has reveled in January that it will be making changes in EU countries that should allow apps to be downloaded and payments processed outside the App Store. This should bring apps like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now to the iPhone. Read about this here: iOS 17.4 will bring major App Store changes in the EU. iOS, iPhone

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Learn to code with this $56 bundle that comes with Microsoft Visual Studio Pro
Macworld Learning to code isn’t easy, but fortunately, there are learning solutions catered to beginners, as well as programs designed to enhance your coding workflow. If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, educational coding course, look no further than the Learn to Code Bundle. It’s on sale for only $55.97 and comes with Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022, software designed to enhance your programming workflow. With the Learn to Code Bundle, you’ll begin by studying Python 3 programming. Joseph Delgadillo (4.2-star rated!) leads this course, showing students the basics and importance of Python. Users can learn about Python functions, programming basics like Strings and Variables, and how to explore systems with the OS library. There are a total of 15 courses and 210 hours of instruction in this bundle, and additional topics of exploration include Java and C++, MySQL, Google Assistant automation, and more.  Along with these lessons, users will get Visio Pro 2022. This is the first 64-bit IDE and is designed to assist with coding needs by offering IntelliCode for code completion, CodeLens for programming insights, and LiveShare for easier development collaboration You have until May 22 at 11:59 PM Pacific to get the Learn to Code Bundle and Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for just $55.97.   Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 and the Learn to Code Bundle Only $55.97 at Macworld StackSocial prices subject to change. Accessories

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ChatGPT finally gets an official Mac app
OpenAI has launched a native ChatGPT app for Mac with access to its latest GPT-4o model for free and Voice Mode support. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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How to master your Mac menubar
How to make the most of your Mac menubar by rearranging, deleting and adding app icons — with or without third party utilities.If you find yourself with an ever-increasing number of small icons on the right side of your Mac's menubar, you can take control and manage these easily. There is a built-in facility to do this, or you can upsize your menubar mastery with third-party utilities.Typically, menubar icons add themselves to the menubar when a third-party program that uses them is installed. There are also a handful of Apple default icons that appear on startup automatically.Apple's menubar icons include the time and date, where clicking it will bring up notifications; Siri; Control Center; Search, and a "User" icon which, when clicked on, will show the account you are presently in. A Wi-Fi signal strength indicator, battery status, Bluetooth control, volume and sound control, display options, Time Machine status, and a focus mode indicator are all available as well. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Here’s how much lighter the iPad Pro’s new Magic Keyboard actually is
When Apple announced the new iPad Pro lineup last week, it also unveiled a new Magic Keyboard accessory that it touted as being “thinner and lighter” than its predecessor. While Apple doesn’t share official weight specifications for iPad accessories, the first reviews of the M4 iPad Pro today confirm that the new Magic Keyboard is noticeably lighter. more…

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ChatGPT Is Getting a Mac App
OpenAI has launched an official macOS app for ChatGPT, with a Windows version coming "later this year." "Both free and paid users will be able to access the new app, but it will only be available to ChatGPT Plus users starting today before a broader rollout in 'the coming weeks,'" reports The Verge. From the report: In the demo shown by OpenAI, users could open the ChatGPT desktop app in a small window, alongside another program. They asked ChatGPT questions about what's on their screen -- whether by typing or saying it. ChatGPT could then respond based on what it "sees." OpenAI says users can ask ChatGPT a question by using the Option + Space keyboard shortcut, as well as take and discuss screenshots within the app. Further reading: OpenAI Launches New Free Model GPT-4o Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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