mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Google Photos rolls out customizable redesign of your ‘Collections’ tab

Google Photos is rolling out a customizable redesign of the Collections tab on Android and iOS, allowing users to personalize the layout and hide or reorder sections. The new design includes a 'Pinned' section, carousels for various categories, and a 'View all' option to switch to a full grid or list view. The redesign is now available with Google Photos 7.97 (Android) and 7.98 (iOS).

Why it matters: This update gives users more control over their Google Photos experience and allows them to tailor the Collections tab to their specific needs.

Apple Expected to Announce MacBook Pro With Touchscreen Tomorrow

Apple is expected to announce new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with touch-enabled OLED displays, thinner bezels, and M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. The new MacBooks will feature a Dynamic Island instead of a notch. The announcement is scheduled for tomorrow at a private event in Los Angeles.

Why it matters: The new MacBook Pro models may offer improved performance and user experience with their updated processors and touch-enabled displays.

M5 vs. M6 MacBook Pro Buyer's Guide: All Differences Compared

Apple has released a new M6 MacBook Pro model with improved CPU and GPU cores, wireless connectivity, and no design changes. The M6 model starts at the same price as the previous M5 model, which has been discontinued. The M6 offers little incentive for existing M5 owners to upgrade, but may be a better choice for those replacing an older machine or buying at a discounted price.

Why it matters: The M6 MacBook Pro is a minor upgrade that may not be worth the cost for existing owners, but could be a good option for those looking to replace an older machine or find a discounted price.

New iMac Available With 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Port on Power Adapter

Apple's new iMac with the M6 chip can be configured with a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, which is built into the power adapter. The port is a $30 upgrade option for the lower-end iMac and comes standard with the higher-end model. The previous model's optional Ethernet port was limited to 1 Gigabit.

Why it matters: This upgrade may be significant for users who require high-speed Ethernet connectivity for work or other applications.

‘The Real Kevin Bacon’ ↦

A data analysis and visualization project by Owen Lacey at The Pudding found that Kevin Bacon is not the central figure in Hollywood's six degrees of separation game, and identified a new 'Kevin Bacon' as the central figure.

Why it matters: This analysis provides insight into the structure of Hollywood's social network and the dynamics of celebrity connections.

Deals: AirPods Pro 3 20% off, Apple Pencil (USB-C), most affordable M5 MacBook Air $200 off, AirTag 2, more

Amazon is offering a 20% discount on Apple AirPods Pro 3, priced at $199.99, and Apple Pencil (USB-C) for $69. Additionally, B&H is offering the most affordable M5 MacBook Air at $200 off with a free 70W charger upgrade. The Apple TV 4K is still available at a discounted price of $289.99. AirTag 2 is also available at a low price.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on popular Apple products, including earbuds, a stylus, and a laptop.

M4 vs. M6 iMac Buyer's Guide: Should You Upgrade?

The M6 iMac skips the M5 chip and starts at $1,499, with a four-port configuration starting at $1,699. The M6 offers faster performance, improved connectivity, and faster storage compared to the M4 model. The M4 and M6 iMacs have the same display, camera, speakers, and design. For most M4 owners, there is little reason to upgrade, but the M6 is a better choice for new buyers or those who need more demanding apps and games. A discounted M4 iMac remains an appealing purchase for those who want to save money.

Why it matters: The decision to upgrade to the M6 iMac depends on individual needs and budget, with the M6 offering more processing power for demanding tasks but a discounted M4 model still providing a similar everyday experience.

M6 24-inch iMac vs M4 24-inch iMac: Apple's all-in-ones compared

Apple has updated the 24-inch iMac to use the M6 chip, retaining the same design and display as the M4 model. The M6 model is available in two variants, with the lower-tier version having a 10-core CPU and the upper-tier version having a 12-core CPU. The M6 model also features Neural Accelerators in each GPU core, improving AI workloads. The memory options remain the same as the M4 model, starting at 16GB and going up to 32GB.

Why it matters: The M6 update brings improved performance and AI capabilities to the 24-inch iMac, making it a more powerful option for users.

Apple's 11-inch iPad drops to $399 during Amazon's month-end sale

Amazon is offering the 11-inch iPad with A16 chip and 128GB storage for $399, a $50 discount from its regular price. The deal applies to Wi-Fi connectivity models. The 256GB and 512GB storage capacities are also discounted by $50.

Why it matters: This deal provides a cost-effective option for those looking for an iPad with the latest A16 chip.

iOS 27.2 introduces new age verification feature using selfie

iOS 27.2 introduces a new age verification feature that uses a selfie to confirm a user's age in certain regions, including the US, Australia, Brazil, Singapore, South Korea, and the UK. The feature is an alternative to existing methods such as using a credit card or scanning an ID. The selfie is deleted immediately after age verification and is not retained in any form.

Why it matters: This feature is significant for users in regions where age verification is required, as it provides an additional method for confirming age.

iOS 27.2 adds new Messages feature that’s already a favorite

iOS 27.2 has been released with a new Messages feature called Suggestions, which provides one-tap suggestions based on conversation context, such as creating reminders or notes. The feature was previously announced but delayed before its initial release. Suggestions now appear as action buttons beneath relevant messages, and users can configure categories to control the types of suggestions they see.

Why it matters: This feature can help users streamline their conversations and tasks by providing quick access to relevant actions.

HomePod 27.2 hands-on: default wireless speaker for Mac, Sound Glow and more [Video]

The HomePod 27.2 software update allows the 2nd-generation HomePod and HomePod mini 2 to function as low-latency wireless speakers for Macs, reducing latency for real-time audio applications. The update also introduces Sound Glow, Lock Controls, and home theater surround sound support. The update is available for Macs that support Wi-Fi 6E, excluding some early Apple Silicon machines.

Why it matters: This update makes HomePods a more viable option for Mac users who need low-latency audio for applications like music production, video conferencing, and gaming.

New MacBook Pro redesign details revealed ahead of launch

Apple's redesigned MacBook Pro is expected to be thinner, lighter, and have thinner bezels, with a revamped hinge that reduces screen rocking during use. The new laptop will feature an OLED touchscreen and a hole-punch cutout, replacing the notch. The redesign is set to be revealed tomorrow.

Why it matters: The new design could improve user experience and provide a more stable touchscreen experience.

Banktivity Offers 30% Off First Year Subscriptions for MacRumors Readers

Banktivity is offering a 30% discount on its first year subscription for new subscribers, with prices starting at $41.99/year for the Bronze tier. The discount is automatically applied on Banktivity's website. The app supports features like budgeting, transaction categorization, and Apple's native iOS features.

Why it matters: This deal can help users save money on a personal finance app that tracks spending and budgeting.

M6 MacBook Pro's 170GB/s Memory Bandwidth Skips Base 16GB Model

The new 14-inch MacBook Pro with M6 chip has a maximum memory bandwidth of 170GB/s, but the base 16GB model is limited to 153GB/s. The higher-end 24GB and 32GB configurations receive the faster memory bandwidth. The base model starts at $1,999 with 16GB of memory and 1TB of storage.

Why it matters: This means users who opt for the base model may not see the full benefits of the M6 chip's improved memory bandwidth.

New iMac keeps old design but adds M6 processor

Apple has released an updated iMac with an M6 processor, keeping the same design as the 2020 model. The new iMac supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, and its storage is up to twice as fast as the previous model. The M6 iMac is available in two configurations, with 10-core and 12-core CPUs, and starts at $1,499.

Why it matters: The updated iMac offers improved performance and AI capabilities, making it a good option for users who want a powerful all-in-one desktop computer.

Slight 14-inch MacBook Pro refresh adds M6 AI power, Wi-Fi 7

Apple has updated the 14-inch MacBook Pro with a new M6 processor, Wi-Fi 7, and improved battery life. The M6 chip has 12 processing cores and 12 GPU cores. The updated model starts at $1999 and is available for preorder on October 28.

Why it matters: The updated MacBook Pro offers improved performance and wireless connectivity for users who need a powerful laptop for work or creative tasks.

M6 iMac Pre-Orders and Release Date Announced

Apple has announced the M6 iMac, a 24-inch all-in-one desktop with a 4.5K Retina display, up to a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU, and Wi-Fi 7. Pre-orders open on October 28, and availability starts on November 6. The new iMac is available in seven colors and starts at $1,499.

Why it matters: The new iMac's M6 chip and Wi-Fi 7 capabilities may provide improved performance and connectivity for users.

M6 MacBook Pro vs M5 MacBook Pro: What’s actually changed?

Apple has released a new 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M6 chip, which offers up to 30% faster graphics and 25% faster AI workloads compared to the M5 chip. The M6 chip also includes Apple's N1 wireless chip, which improves performance and reliability of features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot. The new model has the same design as the previous M5 MacBook Pro.

Why it matters: The M6 MacBook Pro is a good option for those who want the latest Apple chip with a great display and battery life, but may not be worth it for those looking for more significant changes.

Watch the ad for Apple’s new 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by M6

Apple has published an ad for the new 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M6 chip, which features a 12-core CPU, 12-core GPU, and dual 16-core Neural Engine. The ad highlights the laptop's faster graphics, AI performance, and battery life. The 14-inch MacBook Pro with M6 starts at $1,999 and will be available on November 6.

Why it matters: The ad provides a closer look at the new laptop's features and performance capabilities.

Apple Updates Creator Studio With New Tools and AI Features

Apple has updated its Creator Studio suite with new features and tools for its creative apps, including Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Pixelmator Pro, and more. The update adds built-in MotionVFX, a new AI assistant in Logic Pro, and improved document assistants in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. The update will be available in November as a free update for existing subscribers.

Why it matters: The update brings significant improvements to Apple's creative apps, making them more powerful and user-friendly for content creators.

MotionVFX, AI tools feature in Apple Creator Studio's latest update

Apple Creator Studio has been updated with AI-based features, including MotionVFX plug-ins and templates, improved cross-app workflows, and advanced image generation. The update also includes new tools for color grading, 3D camera tracking, and transcription. The updates will be available in November for existing subscribers.

Why it matters: The update brings AI-powered tools to Apple's creative apps, making it easier for users to edit and create content.

M6 vs M4: How two years and two chip generations change Apple Silicon

Apple's M6 chip has a 2-nanometer process, 46 billion transistors, and a 9-core CPU with four performance cores, six efficiency cores, and two super cores. The M6 has faster clock rates and improved memory bandwidth compared to the M4. The M6 is available in Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and iMac models, while the M4 is used in some iPad Pro models.

Why it matters: The M6's improved performance and efficiency may make it a worthwhile upgrade for M4 users, especially for tasks that benefit from AI and machine learning workloads.

Apple Creator Studio gets powerful new AI features using OpenAI models

Apple has announced updates to its Creator Studio, including new AI features powered by OpenAI models, and Final Cut Pro for Mac now includes built-in MotionVFX with thousands of visual effects and templates. The updates also bring new AI-powered assistants to Logic Pro, Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. The new features will be available as a free update for existing subscribers in November.

Why it matters: The updates bring significant productivity enhancements to Apple's creative apps, allowing users to automate tasks and access a wide range of visual effects and templates.

M6 14-Inch MacBook Pro: Pre-Orders and Release Date Announced

Apple announced a new 14-inch MacBook Pro with M6 processor, Wi-Fi 7, and up to 24 hours of battery life. Pre-orders start on October 28, with availability on November 6. The base model starts at $1,999 with 16GB of memory and 1TB of storage.

Why it matters: This new model offers improved performance and storage capacity compared to its predecessor.

Apple Announces New iMac With M6 Chip and More

Apple announced a new 24-inch iMac with the M6 chip, featuring faster performance, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 6 support. The new iMac has the same design as the previous model and offers up to 40% faster CPU performance compared to the M4 chip. The device will be available for pre-order on October 28 and will launch on November 6.

Why it matters: The new iMac's improved performance and connectivity features make it a significant upgrade for users looking for a powerful all-in-one desktop computer.

Apple unveils new 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by M6

Apple has unveiled a new 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M6 chip, available for pre-order on October 28 with a starting price of $1,999. The new laptop features a 12-core CPU, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 6 connectivity. It will be available in silver and space black.

Why it matters: The new MacBook Pro offers improved performance and connectivity for users who require a powerful laptop for demanding tasks.

Apple launches new iMac with M6 chip, N1 wireless, faster Ethernet

Apple has released a new iMac with the M6 chip, featuring a 12-core CPU, 12-core GPU, and Dual 16-core Neural Engine. The new iMac has the same design as the previous model but with upgraded internals. Pre-orders start on October 28 and shipping begins on November 6.

Why it matters: This upgrade may be beneficial for users who require more processing power for demanding tasks.

Apple Announces New 14-Inch MacBook Pro With M6 Chip

Apple announced a refreshed 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M6 chip, featuring a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU, and improved connectivity specifications. The M6 chip provides faster performance and AI capabilities compared to the M5 chip. The new MacBook Pro supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 connectivity, and can drive dual external 4K displays at up to 165Hz.

Why it matters: The updated MacBook Pro with M6 chip may be a compelling option for users who need powerful performance and AI capabilities in a portable laptop.

Opera One now lets Mac users run Apple’s foundation model directly in the browser

Opera One browser now allows users to access local AI models through the WebAI standard, enabling features like text generation and content classification. The feature is model-agnostic and built around open models, offering users choice among AI providers. Users can access Apple's on-device foundation model on Macs directly in Opera.

Why it matters: This feature allows users to access AI capabilities without the need for subscriptions or data sharing with external services.