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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Retail reset set for November 6 as OLED MacBook Pro looms

Apple Stores will undergo a refresh on November 6, hinting at the release of new products, including the OLED iPad mini and touch-enabled MacBook Pro. The new products are expected to be available to consumers on or around November 6. The refresh will include new signage and a change of products on in-store tables.

Why it matters: The release of new products, including the OLED iPad mini and touch-enabled MacBook Pro, is significant for consumers who have been waiting for updates to Apple's Mac and iPad lines.

Apple Reveals iPhone Duo's Battery Capacity

Apple published an EU energy label for the iPhone Duo, revealing a total battery capacity of 4,883 mAh. The battery capacity is comprised of 2,962 mAh and 1,921 mAh cells. The figure applies worldwide, as the iPhone Duo is an eSIM-only device.

Why it matters: This information can help users compare the iPhone Duo's battery life to other Apple devices.

Apple Planning 'HomeView Max' With 9-Inch, 360-Degree Screen

Apple is reportedly planning a higher-end version of its HomeView smart home hub with a 9-inch, 360-degree screen. The new device will have a swiveling robotic arm. The release date is expected to be in 2027 or 2028.

Why it matters: This new device could offer enhanced smart home control and entertainment capabilities for users.

Apple’s first touchscreen MacBook could debut on November 6: Here’s what to expect

Apple is reportedly planning to release its first touchscreen MacBook, possibly on November 6, featuring a Tandem OLED display, Dynamic Island, and M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. The new MacBook Pro will have a redesigned display panel and software optimizations for touch input. The first iteration of the computer will not include the M6 Pro and Max chips, which are expected to be released next spring.

Why it matters: This release could mark a significant shift in Apple's laptop lineup, offering users a more touch-friendly experience.

Mark Gurman: Apple Made 'Major Mistake' With iPhone Duo Pre-Orders

Apple began iPhone Duo pre-orders despite knowing about severe supply constraints, leading to delayed shipping estimates. The company prioritized an early launch over satisfying demand. Many early adopters will be disappointed by the delay.

Why it matters: This decision may impact customers who were expecting to receive their iPhone Duo on time.

HomeView follow-up with robot arm rumored to ship in 2027

Apple is reportedly planning to release a new version of the HomeView with a larger display and a robotic arm, potentially in 2027 or 2028. The device will be able to spin 360 degrees and automatically turn to face the user. The robot arm version of HomeView is not a direct successor, but rather a premium experience.

Why it matters: This development could indicate that Apple is exploring new ways to integrate technology into the home, potentially expanding its presence in the smart home market.

Apple’s next HomeView could debut as soon as next year with a robotic arm: report

Apple is reportedly working on a new version of its HomeView smart home display, codenamed J595, with a robotic arm that can swivel 360 degrees. The new model is expected to be released in 2027 or 2028. It will have a larger 9-inch screen and improved voice recognition capabilities.

Why it matters: This new version of HomeView could provide a more convenient and interactive smart home experience for users.

Crime blotter: Man arrested for damage to Macau Apple Store

A man was arrested for damaging a door at the Apple Store in Macau during the new iPhone launch. A man was arrested in Florida for an armed robbery and kidnapping after a Facebook Marketplace meetup for an iPhone sale went wrong. A man was arrested in Baltimore for a series of carjackings after his iPhone was used as evidence. An 18-year-old was arrested in Iowa for stealing AirPods and other items from a university football team's locker room. A man broke into an office in Arizona and stole Mac Mini boxes, but left the computers behind.

Why it matters: These incidents highlight the potential risks and consequences of Apple-related crimes, including property damage, theft, and violence.

Whatever You Say Bounces Off Me and Sticks to You

An OpenAI employee left the company for Apple and allegedly took over 100 files about an unreleased product, and later presented it to Apple's senior leadership. The presentation occurred months ago. Apple has since released its own AI product, HomeView.

Why it matters: This incident highlights the potential risks of intellectual property theft and the importance of protecting trade secrets in the tech industry.

iPhone Duo walk-in purchases might be challenging at launch, per report

Apple employees are warning customers that iPhone Duo may not be available for walk-in purchases on launch day, even if they check availability on Apple's website. The company's website suggests checking back for availability on October 24th, but this is not a guarantee of stock being available. Apple has stated that iPhone Duo demand is 'extraordinary' and production constraints are expected to lead to limited supply.

Why it matters: This means that customers who don't pre-order an iPhone Duo may face difficulties getting one on launch day, and may need to consider alternative options such as carriers or Best Buy.

Apple Retail Staff Told to Warn Against iPhone Duo Walk-In Purchases

Apple retail employees have been instructed to warn customers against visiting stores to purchase an iPhone Duo without a pre-order on launch day, as stock is expected to be limited. The warning is in response to production constraints and high demand for the device. Apple's online store has already sold out of the iPhone Duo for Christmas.

Why it matters: This warning may affect customers who were planning to purchase the iPhone Duo on launch day without a pre-order, as they may not be able to get the device.

Apple Hires Former Meta Lawyer to Oversee Global Litigation

Apple has hired Scott Tucker, a former Meta lawyer, as its vice president of global litigation and financial services. Tucker will oversee commercial lawsuits, patent disputes, and legal matters involving Apple's financial products. He will report to Apple's general counsel, Jennifer Newstead.

Why it matters: The move may impact Apple's handling of high-profile lawsuits, including its ongoing battle with Epic Games and antitrust lawsuit with the US government.

Apple's M5 Pro MacBook Pro is back on sale for $2,069 this weekend

Apple's M5 Pro MacBook Pro is on sale for $2,069 at Amazon, a $430 discount from its original price. The deal includes a 15-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 24GB of unified memory, and 1TB of storage. The sale is part of Amazon's weekend deals.

Why it matters: This sale provides a significant discount for those interested in purchasing the M5 Pro MacBook Pro.

Indie App Spotlight: ‘Hoardware’ makes it easy to track your Apple device collection

Hoardware is an app that allows users to track their Apple device collection, including hardware, software versions, and model numbers. The app is useful for collectors and non-collectors alike, providing features such as automatic device image recognition and software update notifications. The app is available for free on the App Store for devices running iOS 17 and later.

Why it matters: This app can be useful for anyone who owns multiple Apple devices and wants to keep track of their inventory and software updates.

Hands-on: UGREEN’s new 25W MagSafe battery for iPhone features liquid cooling

UGREEN has released a 25W MagSafe battery bank with liquid cooling for iPhone, which can keep the battery cooler than usual. The battery bank has a 10000mAh capacity, a USB-C cable, and a display showing battery percentage and charging speed. The product is available for purchase on Amazon for $95, which is a discounted price from its original $149.

Why it matters: This battery bank may be a good option for users who are concerned about heat generation from MagSafe battery banks.

★ HomeView Thoughts and Observations

Apple introduced HomeView, a product that allows multiple users to interact with it in a kitchen setting, with a three-minute introductory film showcasing its features. The product is designed to be a central hub for family members to access information and control smart home devices. The article discusses potential issues with the product's design, including its need for a USB power cable and the awkwardness of having to tether it to a power source.

Why it matters: This article provides a critical analysis of Apple's new HomeView product, highlighting potential design flaws and usability issues that may impact its adoption.

Charting Apple TV pricing ↦

A chart comparing the initial prices of each Apple TV model, from the original 2007 model to the 2026 Apple TV 4K, adjusted for inflation, shows that the current model is not the most expensive in actual dollars. The original Apple TV was more expensive than the current model in actual dollars. The current model was the second-cheapest Apple TV model in 2023.

Why it matters: This information provides context on the pricing strategy of Apple's Apple TV models over the years.

EE announces iPhone Handoff pricing details for UK customers

EE announced iPhone Handoff pricing details for UK customers, making it the first carrier in the UK to do so. iPhone Handoff allows users to easily switch between two iPhone models with the same mobile number. The feature will be available for free with EE's Full Works Plus plan or £5/month on other plans.

Why it matters: This development provides UK customers with more flexibility and convenience when using multiple iPhone devices.

Apple nabs Meta VP for global litigation chief role

Apple has hired Scott Tucker, a former Meta VP, as its new VP of global litigation and financial services. Tucker will oversee commercial and patent litigation, as well as financial legal matters. He will report to SVP and General Counsel Jennifer Newstead.

Why it matters: This move highlights Apple's ongoing efforts to strengthen its legal team and address various litigation and financial services matters.

Generative AI porn apps targeted in App Review Guidelines update

Apple has updated its App Review Guidelines to prohibit apps that create non-consensual adult imagery using AI and engage in bait-and-switch tactics to pass the review process. The updated guidelines also clarify the company's stance on apps that facilitate human trafficking or the exploitation of children. The changes aim to prevent apps that misrepresent their purpose during review and only reveal their harmful capabilities after approval.

Why it matters: The update is significant for users who want to ensure that the apps they download from the App Store are safe and do not engage in deceptive or exploitative practices.

Apple TV Price History, Charted

A chart shows the launch prices of each Apple TV model from 2007 to 2026, with prices adjusted for inflation. The chart includes the original Apple TV, Apple TV 2, Apple TV 3, Apple TV HD, Apple TV 4, and Apple TV 4K. The prices are based on Apple's U.S. list prices at launch and at announced changes. The chart allows users to view the prices in a larger, scrollable format.

Why it matters: The chart provides a visual representation of the price history of Apple TV models over the years, allowing users to see how prices have changed over time.

PSA: Apple’s official silicone iPhone Duo case will require adhesive to stick

Apple's official silicone iPhone Duo case requires adhesive to stick to the phone, unlike the folio case which uses magnets. The case is available for pre-order and has started to hit stores. The adhesive may limit the ability to swap cases or go caseless.

Why it matters: This may impact users who prefer to switch cases or use their iPhone without a case.

Top Stories: Apple HomeView, New Apple TV and HomePod mini, and Sold-Out iPhone Duo

Apple released HomeView, a 7-inch smart home hub with a Liquid Retina display and Siri AI support, available in tabletop and wall-mounted versions. The company also updated the Apple TV box with a new fourth-generation model featuring a faster A19 chip and improved performance. Apple HomePod mini 2 was also announced, with an S10 chip and improved audio capabilities.

Why it matters: These new products may be of interest to those looking to upgrade their home entertainment and smart home systems.

Apple @ Work: How I’m preparing my fleet for Rosetta’s removal in macOS 27

Apple Silicon-based macOS 27 will automatically remove Rosetta, prompting IT admins to prepare for potential issues with legacy Intel-only software. Some vendors have not yet released native Apple Silicon builds, leading to silent failures. IT admins can use Mosyle to push a Rosetta reinstallation script to affected devices.

Why it matters: IT admins need to audit their fleets and prepare for potential issues with legacy software before macOS 27 is rolled out.

Apple weekend deals: HomeView, new Apple TV 4K, AirPods, MacBook, mini, more

Apple offers pre-order discounts on HomeView and new Apple TV 4K, along with price drops on AirPods Pro 3, AirTag 2, M6 Mac mini, and M5 Pro MacBook models. Best Buy offers competitive monthly plan options and trade-in deals for new iPhone Duo. Amazon offers discounts on Apple Watch, HomePod mini 2, and iPhone cases.

Why it matters: These deals provide opportunities for consumers to purchase Apple products at discounted prices, potentially saving hundreds of dollars.

The Late Charlie Munger on Elon Musk and Tesla

Berkshire Hathaway vice chairman Charlie Munger shared his thoughts on Elon Musk and Tesla at the Daily Journal's annual shareholders meeting. Munger stated he would not buy or short Tesla stock, but acknowledged Musk's potential for success. He also shared a similar opinion from 2019, where he said he wouldn't hire Musk due to his tendency to overestimate himself.

Why it matters: This insight into Munger's perspective on Musk and Tesla may be relevant for investors considering the company's stock.

Apple TV Started at $69 in 2015

Apple TV's price was reduced from $99 to $69 in 2015. The price change occurred during a media event in San Francisco. The third-generation Apple TV was affected by the price change.

Why it matters: This price drop may make Apple TV more competitive in the market.

Verizon confirms $10 monthly fee for new iPhone Handoff feature

Verizon confirmed it will charge $10 per month for its iPhone Handoff feature, which allows users to share a single phone number across two iPhones. The feature is available on compatible iPhone models running iOS 27. AT&T does not plan to support iPhone Handoff.

Why it matters: This affects iPhone users who want to use the Handoff feature on Verizon's network.

Apple: ‘Strengthening App Review Guidelines Against Nonconsensual Intimate Imagery and Bait-And-Switch Apps’

Apple has updated its App Review Guidelines to strengthen protections against nonconsensual intimate imagery, bait-and-switch apps, and human trafficking. The updates explicitly prohibit AI-generated nonconsensual intimate imagery and clarify rules on misrepresenting app features during the review process. Apple will remove apps that violate these guidelines and terminate developer accounts.

Why it matters: These updates aim to improve user safety and trust in the App Store by preventing the spread of explicit and exploitative content.

Verizon Will Charge $10 a Month for iPhone Handoff

Verizon will charge $10 per month for the iPhone Handoff feature, which allows customers to share one phone number across two iPhones. The feature will be available on compatible iPhone models running iOS 27. iPhone Handoff will work with the iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro models.

Why it matters: This change may impact customers who rely on the feature, especially those who were expecting it to be included in their plan.