mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Last-minute leak reveals new touchscreen MacBook Pro details: pricing, new cooling system, more

Apple is expected to announce OLED touchscreen MacBook Pro models with a starting price of $2,899 for the 14-inch model and at least $3,399 for the 16-inch model. The new models will feature a thinner design, thinner bezels, a lighter body, and a redesigned hinge. The touchscreen MacBook Pro models will be available for preorder on October 28, with potential availability starting November 6.

Why it matters: The new touchscreen MacBook Pro models will be a significant upgrade for users who want a premium laptop experience, but the high prices may be a barrier for some consumers.

OLED Touchscreen MacBook Pro Could Start at $2,899

Apple's upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch OLED MacBook Pro models may be $400 more expensive than their current counterparts, with prices starting at $2,899 and $3,399 respectively. The new models will feature OLED touchscreens, a Dynamic Island, and a redesigned hinge. Apple will continue to sell existing mini-LED MacBook Pro models alongside the OLED versions.

Why it matters: The price increase may affect customers who are considering upgrading to the new OLED MacBook Pro models.

Siri AI Expands to More Languages in OS 27.2

Siri AI is now available in five new languages: French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish, with additional languages to be supported by the end of the year. The new Siri AI is a reimagined version that is more personal and powerful, with features such as onscreen awareness and systemwide app actions. The update is part of the iOS 27.2 software release.

Why it matters: This update expands Siri's accessibility to more users worldwide, enabling them to interact with the virtual assistant in their native language.

Firefox’s AI-powered Smart Window gets form autofill and website monitoring

Mozilla has introduced two new features to its Smart Window AI-powered browsing experience in Firefox: AI-powered form autofill and website monitoring. The AI-powered form autofill can suggest answers to web forms based on information from other open tabs. The website monitoring feature allows users to track specific changes on webpages and receive notifications when changes are detected.

Why it matters: These features aim to enhance user productivity and convenience by automating tasks and providing more personalized browsing experiences.

★ Prestructured WYSIWYG

Apple Notes uses a text formatting system called prestructured WYSIWYG, which allows for expressiveness through abstract semantic styles like bold and italics, while avoiding technical and aesthetic problems associated with full WYSIWYG.

Why it matters: This design approach can be liberating for users, as it frees them from making typographic choices and allows for a more consistent and accessible user experience.

M6 iMac Sticks With Its Five-Year-Old Color Lineup

Apple's M6 iMac models will be available in seven color options: green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue, and silver. The color options are the same as the 2024 model and the original 2021 iMac design. Pre-orders for the M6 iMac start on October 28 and it will be available on November 6.

Why it matters: The color options may be a consideration for customers looking to match their iMac with accessories and cables.

'Way of the Warrior Kid' lands on Apple TV ahead of Thanksgiving

Apple TV has released the trailer for 'Way of the Warrior Kid', a film starring Chris Pratt and Jude Hill, which will premiere on November 25, 2026. The movie is based on a novel by former Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, who also stars in the film. The story follows a middle school student who learns to stand up for himself with the help of his uncle, a decorated Navy SEAL.

Why it matters: The film's release on Apple TV may be of interest to viewers looking for family-friendly content.

Apple’s European government affairs chief to speak at Web Summit 2026

Apple's Director of European Government Affairs, Sébastien Gros, will speak at Web Summit 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. This is the latest in a series of Apple executives speaking at the event. Details about Gros's participation have not been announced.

Why it matters: The appearance of a high-ranking Apple executive at Web Summit may provide insight into the company's current priorities and strategies.

ChatGPT can now manage your iCloud Calendar and iCloud emails

ChatGPT can now interact with iCloud emails and calendar events with user permission, thanks to new iCloud plugins. The plugins allow ChatGPT to read and check iCloud inboxes, create and manage emails, and update events on the Calendar app. This integration is available on all ChatGPT plans, but requires a subscription.

Why it matters: This update enables users to access more personalized experiences with ChatGPT on Apple platforms, such as iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

iOS 27.2 adds new app icon for Apple Music, more design updates

iOS 27.2 includes a new app icon for Apple Music and various design updates to the Music app, such as a new color scheme and font styling. The changes are part of Apple's branding refresh for Apple Music, which was first seen in September. The update is available now for iPhone users.

Why it matters: The design changes may be a precursor to a broader rebranding of Apple Music.

iOS 27.2 now available: Here’s everything new for iPhone

iOS 27.2 is now available for all iPhones, bringing new features such as expanded Siri AI capabilities, Dual Capture for Group FaceTime, and a refreshed Apple Podcasts interface. The update also adds Multiview support to the TV app and introduces a new brand identity for Apple Music. Additionally, the update includes security fixes for various apps and features. iOS 27.2 is available after six weeks of beta testing.

Why it matters: This update provides new features and security fixes for iPhone users, improving their overall experience and security.

Apple TV releases trailer for upcoming original film starring Chris Pratt

Apple TV released a trailer for the upcoming original film 'Way of the Warrior Kid', starring Chris Pratt, which premieres on November 25. The movie is based on a bestselling novel by Jocko Willink, a former Navy SEAL. The film follows a young boy who learns about courage and self-defense from his injured uncle, a decorated Navy SEAL.

Why it matters: The release of 'Way of the Warrior Kid' is significant for Apple TV+ subscribers who are looking for new content to watch.

ChatGPT Can Now Access Your iCloud Mail and Calendar

OpenAI has added iCloud Mail and Calendar plugins to ChatGPT, allowing it to read, schedule, and update events, as well as search and manage iCloud Mail. The integration requires creating an app-specific password for both services. The plugins are available on all plans across the web, desktop, and iOS.

Why it matters: This expansion of ChatGPT's capabilities may increase its usefulness for users who rely on iCloud services.

Report: iPhone 18 Pro sales down 4% in the US, but China drives 3.1% global growth

iPhone 18 Pro sales in the US decreased by 4% compared to the same period last year, while sales in China increased by 29%. The global sales of iPhone 18 Pro series showed a 3.1% growth. Japan saw a 27% drop in sales due to high prices and weak demand.

Why it matters: The sales data highlights regional differences in demand for the iPhone 18 Pro series, influenced by factors such as price increases and competing Android models.

Apple’s low-cost iPhone 18 details revealed by leaker

A leaker claims Apple plans to release a low-cost iPhone 18e next spring with an A20 chip, improved front camera, and unchanged design from the iPhone 17e. The iPhone 18e is expected to be a budget-friendly model with performance improvements. The exact details of the iPhone 18e's design and features are still unclear.

Why it matters: The iPhone 18e could be an affordable option for those looking for a new iPhone without breaking the bank.

Copilot Money gets even better with new AI-powered Money Assistant

Copilot Money has launched a new AI-powered feature called Money Assistant, which provides personalized financial insights and automates tasks. The feature is available on iPhone, with support for other platforms coming soon. Users can interact with Money Assistant through a chat interface.

Why it matters: The Money Assistant feature can help users manage their finances more efficiently and make informed decisions about their spending and savings.

Astropad Workbench 1.4 adds terminal access, iPhone Duo support, and more

Astropad Workbench 1.4 has been released with a built-in terminal, native iPhone Duo support, and improved file transfer capabilities. The update allows users to switch between the remote desktop and terminal without reconnecting. The app also supports voice input in the terminal and file dragging and dropping during terminal sessions.

Why it matters: This update enhances the functionality of Astropad Workbench, making it more convenient for users to access and manage their Macs remotely.

iOS 27.2 has two CarPlay improvements, here’s what’s new

iOS 27.2 has introduced two new features for CarPlay: a revamped Podcasts app with 'New Episodes' and 'Continue Playing' sections, and Siri AI upgrades, including availability in the car.

Why it matters: These changes aim to improve the user experience of listening to podcasts and interacting with Siri while driving.

iCloud Mail and Calendar plugins now work with ChatGPT

OpenAI has added support for iCloud Mail and Calendar plugins in ChatGPT, allowing users to connect their Apple email and calendar to the AI assistant. This feature is available on the web, desktop, and iOS. Users can now use ChatGPT to access and manage their iCloud Mail and Calendar.

Why it matters: This update enables users to integrate ChatGPT with their Apple ecosystem, potentially enhancing productivity and convenience.

On OLED MacBook Pro-eve, I have just one question

Apple is expected to announce a touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro on October 27, featuring an OLED display, Apple's M5 Pro and M5 Max silicon, and a possible new industrial design. The laptop's touchscreen feature has been a long-rumored aspect of the device. Apple has previously expressed skepticism about touchscreen laptops, with Craig Federighi arguing that they are ergonomically fatiguing. The new laptop's purpose and target audience remain unclear.

Why it matters: The announcement may impact the future of laptop design and user experience, particularly for those who value touchscreen functionality.

Blowout deal: Apple's M5 MacBook Pro with 32GB RAM plunges to $1,999

B&H Photo is offering a discounted price of $1,999 for the 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro with 32GB RAM and a 96W adapter, a $420 discount off the original price. The deal includes 1TB storage and a Silver finish. This is the lowest price of the season for this configuration.

Why it matters: This deal provides a significant cost savings for those looking to purchase a high-end MacBook Pro with 32GB of RAM.

Apple Reportedly Plans to Release MacBook Neo 2 in First Half of 2027

Apple reportedly plans to release a second-generation MacBook Neo in the first half of 2027, featuring an A19 Pro chip and 12GB of RAM. The new model will offer new color options. The current MacBook Neo, released in March 2026, has an A18 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM.

Why it matters: The new MacBook Neo 2 may offer improved performance and more storage options for users.

M6 14-inch MacBook Pro vs M5 14-inch MacBook Pro: Baselines compared

The M6 14-inch MacBook Pro has been compared to the M5 14-inch MacBook Pro, showing a performance boost due to a new M6 chip. The M6 MacBook Pro has the same design, size, and weight as the M5 model. The M6 MacBook Pro retains the same display features as the M5, including a 14.2-inch screen with a 3,024 by 1,964 resolution and a million-to-one contrast ratio.

Why it matters: The comparison highlights the performance improvements of the M6 chip, which may be relevant for users considering upgrading from the M5 model.

Best Buy Details Black Friday Plans With Early Deals Available on Halloween

Best Buy has announced its Black Friday plans, including a special event on October 30 and a month-long sale leading up to Black Friday on November 27. The sale will feature doorbusters on select tech products every week of the holiday season. Best Buy's Black Friday sale will officially start on November 19 and run through November 28.

Why it matters: This information helps customers plan their holiday shopping and make informed decisions about when to shop for deals.

MacBook Neo 2 now predicted to arrive before summer 2027

A new report claims that Apple is planning to release a second generation of its MacBook Neo in the first half of 2027. The MacBook Neo 2 is expected to be based on an A19 processor and feature 12GB of RAM. The new model may also come in a new range of colors.

Why it matters: The release of the MacBook Neo 2 may be significant for those considering purchasing a new laptop, as it could offer improved performance and new features.

Sorry, new developers, it’s vibecodetown

Developers are using AI tools to write emails to promote their apps, which may be misleading as to the level of human involvement in the app's development. This has led to a surge in 'vibe-coded' apps, which use AI to assist with development but may not be entirely created by humans. The author argues that this trend is problematic for serious developers who want to create high-quality apps.

Why it matters: This trend may make it harder for genuine developers to stand out and get their apps noticed, as the line between AI-generated and human-created apps becomes increasingly blurred.

Apple clears the decks ahead of its biggest announcement

Apple has updated the base-model MacBook Pro to an M6 chip, updated the iMac to M6, and announced Creator Studio updates with new features and AI enhancements. The updates are minor and do not impact the design or price of the base M5 (now M6) model. The updates are part of Apple's preparations for a major announcement on Wednesday.

Why it matters: These updates provide a glimpse into Apple's ongoing development of its Apple silicon technology and creative software suite.

With the new iMac and MacBook Pro, Apple is targeting stubborn Intel holdouts

Apple has released new iMac and MacBook Pro models with Apple Silicon processors, emphasizing the performance benefits of switching from Intel-based Macs. The new M6 iMac and 14-inch MacBook Pro offer significant performance improvements over their predecessors. Apple is targeting users who have not yet upgraded to Apple Silicon, citing the benefits of faster performance and improved efficiency.

Why it matters: For users considering an upgrade, understanding the performance differences between Apple Silicon and Intel-based Macs can help inform purchasing decisions.

Twelve South launches new Airfly View dongle with built-in screen

Twelve South has launched the Airfly View, a wireless audio dongle with a built-in screen. The device allows users to connect their AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones to a non-Bluetooth screen, such as a plane's seat-back entertainment screen. The Airfly View offers up to 16 hours of battery life and is available for purchase on Amazon for $79.99.

Why it matters: This product is useful for travelers who want to use their wireless headphones with in-flight entertainment systems.

Formula 1's CEO sees a very long-term future with Apple TV

Formula 1's CEO, Derek Chang, expressed enthusiasm for the sport's partnership with Apple TV, hoping to extend their agreement beyond 2030. The partnership, which began in 2026, covers every Grand Prix, qualifying session, and practice session through 2030. Apple has reportedly performed better than expected, with stronger viewership results according to the company's measurements.

Why it matters: The partnership between Apple and Formula 1 may have implications for the future of sports broadcasting and streaming services.