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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

AppleInsider

M5 Pro MacBook Pro vs Microsoft Surface Laptop Ultra: Compared

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Ultra and the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Pro processor are compared in terms of design, display, and performance. The Surface Laptop Ultra uses an Nvidia graphics card, while the MacBook Pro uses Apple Silicon. The Surface Laptop Ultra has a larger footprint and is thicker and heavier than the MacBook Pro. The Surface Laptop Ultra has a 15-inch PixelSense Ultra panel with a 3:2 aspect ratio, while the MacBook Pro has a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a 16:10 aspect ratio.

Why it matters: This comparison highlights the differences between the Surface Laptop Ultra and the MacBook Pro, which may help readers decide which device best suits their needs.

MacRumors

Apple 'Welcome Home' Launch: Everything to Expect Tomorrow

Apple is set to launch a new home hub called HomeView, a multi-function device with an A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, which will be able to perform various tasks such as giving recipe instructions and suggesting dinner ideas. The hub will have a 6-inch touch display and rely on Siri AI for voice-based input. Apple is also expected to update the Apple TV with new features.

Why it matters: The new home hub and Apple TV updates could bring improved smart home capabilities and entertainment options to users.

MacRumors

Apple Plans Two-Day Event to Showcase Trio of New Macs and iPad Mini

Apple is planning a two-day product showcase in Los Angeles on October 27 and 28 for content creators, where it is expected to unveil three new Macs and the iPad Mini. The event will not be a traditional Apple Event with a live-streamed video. The new Macs and iPad Mini are expected to be announced alongside the HomeView smart home hub, HomePod mini 2, and updated Apple TV 4K.

Why it matters: The event will provide insight into Apple's upcoming product lineup and potential features.

Daring Fireball

Mark Stephens, a.k.a. Robert X. Cringely, Died at 73

Robert X. Cringely, a technology journalist and writer, has passed away at 73. His wife announced his death on his Facebook account. Cringely was known for his distinctive voice in technology journalism, making complex subjects understandable and entertaining.

Why it matters: Readers who followed Cringely's work may be interested in his legacy and the impact he had on the technology journalism landscape.

MacRumors

Apple and Pokémon Tease Special Pikachu-Themed Beats Pill Speaker

Beats has teased a new collaboration with Pokémon, featuring a Pikachu-themed Beats Pill speaker. The speaker's release date has not been disclosed. The collaboration is likely related to a previously leaked image of a Pikachu-themed Beats Pill speaker box at Target.

Why it matters: This collaboration may appeal to fans of the Pokémon franchise and provide a unique product option for music enthusiasts.

AppleInsider

iPhone Duo production orders up 30% says report that does math strangely

A report claims Apple has increased iPhone Duo production orders by 30%, but the math in the report is questionable and may be based on component orders rather than finished iPhones. The report also conflates iPhone Duo orders with a decrease in iPhone 18 Pro orders, which is not necessarily the case. The report's figures are based on a machine translation and have been disputed by fluent speakers.

Why it matters: This report highlights the importance of understanding the difference between component orders and actual iPhone production.

MacRumors

You Can Now Set Up Your iPhone Duo Pre-Order - Do It Before Friday

Apple has opened its 'Get Ready' service for iPhone Duo pre-orders, allowing customers to pre-select options to streamline the process. Pre-orders for the iPhone Duo go live on October 16 at 5 a.m. Pacific Time or 8 a.m. Eastern Time. The service allows customers to select a preferred model, color, and accessories ahead of time.

Why it matters: This can increase the chances of securing a preferred iPhone Duo model on launch day, given expected supply constraints.

9to5Mac

You can now start the iPhone Duo pre-order process

Apple has started allowing users to prepare their iPhone Duo pre-orders ahead of the official start on Friday. Users can save their configuration, payment method, and other details on the Apple Store Online or Apple Store app. This process will be available until Friday morning, October 16.

Why it matters: This allows users to streamline the pre-order process and check out quickly when pre-orders officially begin.

AppleInsider

Beats meets Pokemon in an upcoming speaker collaboration

Beats has teased a new collaboration with Pokémon, featuring a co-branded Beats Pill speaker design. The collaboration is hinted at in a short clip posted to X, showing a Beats Pill speaker with a Pokémon-inspired design. The clip also features cartoony flashes and electric sparks reminiscent of Pokémon characters.

Why it matters: The collaboration may appeal to fans of both Beats and Pokémon, offering a unique product option.

9to5Mac

Security Bite: This nifty privacy app blurs your Mac screen the second you look away

ShyGlass is a Mac app that uses AirPods to blur the screen when the user looks away, providing a simple way to protect privacy in public spaces. The app uses motion sensors to detect when the user's head is turned away from the screen. The app requires Screen Recording permission to function.

Why it matters: This app can help users protect their sensitive information from being seen by others in public spaces, such as coffee shops or hotel lobbies.

9to5Mac

Deals: MacBook Pro massive $600 off, AirPods, Mac mini, Apple iPhone cases, more

Amazon is offering a $600 price drop on the 14-inch 2TB M5 Pro MacBook Pro with 24GB of RAM and 2TB of storage, now priced at $2,399. Additionally, there are deals on AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max 2, M6 Mac mini, Apple iPhone 18 Pro cases, and Apple Pencil. The MacBook Pro deal is one of the best of the year, and the M6 Mac mini deals are still available with up to $150 off. The iPhone 18 Pro cases are also on sale with prices starting at $41.50 shipped.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on Apple products, including a high-end MacBook Pro and iPhone accessories.

MacRumors

Apple Announces 'Indie Games Week' on App Store

Apple announced Indie Games Week on the App Store, celebrating independent game developers. Seven acclaimed indie games will debut on the App Store, including No Man's Sky on mobile. The games will be available on iPhone and iPad starting October 28.

Why it matters: This event highlights the diversity of games available on the App Store and provides a platform for independent developers to showcase their work.

AppleInsider

Apple's 2TB M5 Pro MacBook Pro plunges to $2,399 ($600 off)

Amazon has discounted the 14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro with 2TB of storage to $2,399, a $600 price drop. The laptop features an M5 Pro chip with a 15-core CPU and 16-core GPU, as well as 24GB of unified memory. The sale is part of Amazon's clearance of MacBook Pro inventory.

Why it matters: This deal can be a good option for those looking to purchase a high-end MacBook Pro with a large storage capacity at a lower price.

9to5Mac

Apple confirms Beats x Pokémon collaboration with Pill speaker teaser

Beats has confirmed a collaboration with Pokémon for a Beats Pill Bluetooth speaker, with a teaser clip showing the speaker's design with lit-up elements. The collaboration was previously hinted at by a Pikachu version of the speaker spotted at a Target store. The speaker's release details are not yet available.

Why it matters: This collaboration may appeal to fans of both Beats and Pokémon, offering a unique product option.

AppleInsider

Exploring Apple's rumored LG partnership on Smart Home Insider

The Smart Home Insider podcast discussed Apple's 'Welcome Home' experience and its rumored partnership with LG, which may involve manufacturing accessories with unique abilities. Apple confirmed the 'Welcome Home' experience, which will introduce new Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini, and smart display. The podcast also touched on other smart home news, including a new smart lock from Ring.

Why it matters: The rumored partnership between Apple and LG could lead to new smart home products and accessories with unique features.

9to5Mac

Apple has reportedly increased its iPhone Duo orders by 30%

Apple has increased its iPhone Duo orders by 30% in the supply chain, anticipating higher demand despite pre-orders not starting until October 16. The total supply for the remainder of 2026 is expected to be around 10 million units. This is a significant increase from the initial estimate of 6-7 million units.

Why it matters: This development suggests that the iPhone Duo is generating strong interest among consumers, which may impact sales and market trends.

AppleInsider

Grab AirPods Max 2 for $429 ($120 off)

Amazon is offering a $120 discount on Apple's AirPods Max 2 headphones, pricing them at $429. The deal is available in all colors and includes delivery as soon as today for Prime members. The sale is only available today.

Why it matters: This deal provides a significant savings opportunity for those looking to purchase the AirPods Max 2.

AppleInsider

HomeView, OLED MacBook Pro & more: When Apple is shipping the rest of its 2026 hardware

Apple has announced a 'Get Ready' option for its upcoming devices, with the iPhone Duo shipping on October 23, HomeView in mid-November, and other devices including a new HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K expected to ship in late October or November. The company is also preparing co-designed devices with LG, including smart home devices and cameras. Apple's new MacBook Pro models with OLED screens are expected to be announced on October 27 and ship in late November.

Why it matters: These upcoming releases will give consumers more options for smart home devices and high-end laptops, and provide insight into Apple's product roadmap for the remainder of 2026.

MacRumors

Amazon Discounting 2026 MacBook Pro by as Much as $600 This Week

Amazon is offering discounts on 2026 MacBook Pro models, with a 14-inch model available for $2,399 and a 16-inch model available for $2,499. The discounts are $500 and $600 off the original prices, respectively. The deals are available on Amazon.

Why it matters: These discounts may be of interest to those looking to purchase a new MacBook Pro at a lower price.

9to5Mac

Apple announces ‘Indie Games Week’ with seven new, upcoming launches

Apple is celebrating 'Indie Games Week' on the App Store, featuring seven new and upcoming iPhone games. The games were chosen for their unique gameplay experiences, artistry, and creative risks. The titles will be showcased on the App Store throughout the week.

Why it matters: This highlights the diversity of indie games available on the App Store and the opportunities for developers to reach a global audience.

MacRumors

Apple Watch Ultra 1 vs. Ultra 4 Buyer's Guide: Is It Worth Upgrading?

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 has been released, offering improvements over the original Ultra, including a brighter and larger display, satellite connectivity, new health sensors, and longer battery life. The new model starts at $799 in the US. The original Ultra is no longer supported by Apple and cannot run the latest watchOS release.

Why it matters: The Apple Watch Ultra 4's upgrades may be worth considering for owners of the original model, especially if they rely on features like satellite connectivity or the latest health sensors.

MacRumors

Apple Watch SE 3 Available From Just $199.99 on Amazon

Amazon is offering discounts on two Apple Watch SE 3 models, with prices starting at $199.99 for the 40mm GPS model and $229.99 for the 44mm GPS model. The discounts match the Prime Day lows from last week. The sale is only available for the Starlight Aluminum Case with Sand Sport Band.

Why it matters: These discounts provide an opportunity for customers to purchase the Apple Watch SE 3 at a lower price point.

AppleInsider

Just about all of 'No Man's Sky' is coming to iPhone and iPad

Hello Games is bringing the sci-fi adventure game 'No Man's Sky' to iOS and iPadOS, with preorders starting on October 12 and a release date of October 28. The mobile version will be the same as the full version on other platforms, with some minor concessions. The game will be available to try for free at launch.

Why it matters: The release of 'No Man's sky' on iOS and iPadOS brings a popular game to a new platform, potentially expanding its player base.

Apple Newsroom

App Store Indie Games Week kicks off today

The App Store Indie Games Week has started, featuring seven acclaimed indie games, including Sifu, Vampire Crawlers, and No Man's Sky. The games are available for download or pre-order on iPhone and iPad. The week will also include daily features and curated collections of the indie games.

Why it matters: This event highlights the diversity and creativity of indie games available on the App Store.

MacRumors

Tim Cook Visits China for the Third Time in 2026

Apple's CEO, John Ternus, is not mentioned in the article, but rather as having taken over as CEO, indicating Tim Cook is now executive chairman. Tim Cook visited China for the third time this year, meeting with government officials and business partners. Cook's talks focused on expanding Apple's manufacturing and sales operations in the region.

Why it matters: This visit highlights Apple's ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in China, a key market for the company.

9to5Mac

New Apple TV 4K launching this week with five big upgrades

A new Apple TV 4K is launching this week with five upgrades, including a new A19 chip and support for Siri AI. The new chip is expected to improve performance and add features like AirDrop. The device will also have a built-in microphone for voice interaction with Siri.

Why it matters: The new Apple TV 4K may improve the overall user experience with its enhanced performance and voice interaction capabilities.

AppleInsider

Where Apple focused engineering so the iPhone Duo could have desktop-like performance

Apple's iPhone Duo features a redesigned A20 Pro chip with a wafer-level multichip module packaging technique to spread out heat, and a vapor chamber with increased surface area and de-ionized water. The device also features a 'metal over foam' technique for thermal and mechanical coupling, and a nanotube copper display metal plate material to keep the foldable display sturdy and reduce hotspots. The iPhone Duo's hinge has a flexible graphite pipe to transfer heat between the two halves of the device.

Why it matters: These innovations enable the iPhone Duo to achieve desktop-like performance while maintaining a thin design.

AppleInsider

Endangered indigenous languages are being saved by the iPhone

Apple has partnered with indigenous cultures to support over 200 languages on the iPhone, a process that involves years of research and consultation to ensure accurate representation of languages. Apple has worked with communities to include written characters in the Unicode set and to design language-specific keyboards and layouts. The company has also made changes to its iOS operating system to accommodate languages with unique characteristics, such as the Cherokee language.

Why it matters: This effort helps preserve endangered languages and provides a platform for indigenous communities to communicate in their native languages.

9to5Mac

iPhone Air 2 is coming, here’s everything we know so far

Apple is reportedly working on a second-generation iPhone Air, which will address several key limitations of the current model, including adding a second camera and improving battery life. The new iPhone Air 2 will be powered by the A20 Pro processor and feature a vapor chamber cooling system. The release date is expected to be in spring 2027.

Why it matters: The iPhone Air 2's improved features and performance could make it a more competitive option for users who value a slim design and advanced camera capabilities.

AppleInsider

New Windows games play really well on M5 Max Mac Studio

Andrew Tsai tested 17 Windows games on a M5 Max Mac Studio, with Gears of War E-Day being one of the games that ran well. The setup method for the games varied, with one tool being Proton. The results of the test were documented in a video.

Why it matters: This information can help Mac users determine whether they can play their favorite Windows games on their M5 Max Mac Studio.