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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

AppleInsider

Wean yourself off the Action Button before you get an iPhone Duo

The iPhone Duo lacks an Action Button, but users can create a near-equivalent by replacing a lock screen icon with a control or Shortcut. This allows users to perform various actions with a single tap. The process involves customizing the lock screen and choosing a control or Shortcut to replace the camera icon.

Why it matters: This workaround enables iPhone Duo users to replicate the functionality of the missing Action Button, providing a convenient way to access frequently used features.

9to5Mac

HomeKit Weekly: Onvis releases a Matter over Thread outdoor smart plug with energy monitoring

Onvis has released an outdoor smart plug with Matter over Thread, real-time energy monitoring, and IP65 weather resistance. The plug works natively with Apple Home without a hub and is compatible with other smart home platforms. It can handle up to 1800 watts and tracks energy consumption through Apple Home's energy view.

Why it matters: This plug provides a reliable and convenient way to control and monitor outdoor devices, making it a useful addition to a smart home setup.

9to5Mac

Apple marks first Apple TV 4K ‘vintage’ with new model imminent

The original Apple TV 4K from 2017 has been marked 'vintage' by Apple, which may limit repair options. This means Apple can still service the product, but only if parts are available. The move comes ahead of a new Apple TV 4K model's unveiling next Tuesday.

Why it matters: This change may impact users who rely on Apple for repairs of their original Apple TV 4K devices.

AppleInsider

My Apple TV 4K is now 'vintage,' and I'm ready for a new one

The 2017 Apple TV 4K has been added to Apple's vintage product list, meaning it may be harder to repair, and a new model is expected to be released soon with improved features, including a new Siri Remote.

Why it matters: The new Apple TV 4K and Siri Remote may address issues with the current model, such as a problematic touch-sensitive remote and limited audio capabilities.

9to5Mac

Grok Bot just got its own email address, here’s how to claim yours

Grok Bot, an AI assistant, has received an upgrade with its own email address, allowing users to claim an inbox for the bot to use for tasks such as signing up for services or scheduling appointments. Users can prompt the bot to claim an email address, which will be used by the agent system and end with @mail.grokbot.com. The upgrade is available to users of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac versions of the Grok Bot.

Why it matters: This upgrade enables users to utilize Grok Bot more effectively for various tasks, such as automation and communication.

9to5Mac

Apple Mail added four convenient new features in iOS 27

iOS 27 has added four new features to Apple Mail, including improved search, more flexible suggestions, enhanced Smart Reply, and integration with Siri. The new search feature ranks results to show the most relevant emails first. Apple Mail also now supports third-party app suggestions and has received bug fixes and performance improvements.

Why it matters: These updates aim to make Apple Mail more efficient and user-friendly, potentially saving time and reducing frustration for users.

MacRumors

MacRumors Giveaway: Win an Apple Watch Series 12 and a Nylon Band From Southern Straps

MacRumors is giving away an Apple Watch Series 12 and a nylon band from Southern Straps. Southern Straps is a California-based company that makes high-quality bands for the Apple Watch. The company's bands are made from a single piece of nylon and come with a five-year warranty.

Why it matters: This giveaway offers readers a chance to win a high-quality Apple Watch accessory.

AppleInsider

If we trust it, Home Hub privacy could lead a smart home revolution

Apple is rumored to be developing a Home hub with a sensor that captures low-frame-rate footage, but doesn't record video, which could revolutionize the smart home by providing status updates for appliances without needing Wi-Fi connections. This technology could enable a more intelligent and proactive home system, where devices can understand statuses and provide alerts. Apple's commitment to privacy will be crucial in convincing users to trust the technology.

Why it matters: This technology could simplify smart home setup and maintenance, making it more accessible to people in rental homes or those who don't want to replace existing appliances.

MacRumors

First Apple TV 4K Now 'Vintage' Ahead of New Model Coming on Tuesday

Apple has added the first-generation Apple TV 4K to its vintage products list, indicating it is no longer supported or sold. The move comes ahead of the expected release of a new Apple TV 4K model on October 13. The first-generation Apple TV 4K was released in 2017.

Why it matters: This change may affect users who still own the first-generation Apple TV 4K and are looking for support or repairs.

AppleInsider

TextExpander has a new free tier

TextExpander has introduced a new free tier that allows users to create up to five cross-platform snippets. The free version is available for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Users can access the free tier on the TextExpander website.

Why it matters: This change may make TextExpander more accessible to users who were previously deterred by the cost of the service.

AppleInsider

An iPhone near an LG home accessory will trigger a helpful Dynamic Island hint

Apple and LG's new home accessories will display helpful hints in the Dynamic Island when an iPhone is near, allowing users to control the accessory without opening the app. The hints include an 'Open Controls' button and a camera viewer for cameras and doorbells. The feature is similar to how Handoff works with HomePod.

Why it matters: This feature simplifies the setup and control of LG home accessories, making it easier for users to interact with their smart home devices.

9to5Mac

Apple ‘Welcome home’ event: Three new products are coming next week

Apple confirmed a product launch event for October 13, focusing on new smart home products, including a long-rumored smart display called the HomePad, a new Apple TV 4K, and an updated HomePod mini. The event will have an in-person component in New York City and an online video presentation. The HomePad will have a 6-inch square display and recognize multiple people in a household, while the new Apple TV will include the A19 or A19 Pro chip and bring Siri AI and Apple Intelligence features. The updated HomePod mini will have a faster chip and new colors. Apple is also working on new HomeKit accessories with LG.

Why it matters: The announcements could provide insight into Apple's plans for its smart home ecosystem and potential new features for its devices.

AppleInsider

At just 5.2mm, Apple's iPhone Air 2 might miss the point

A rumor suggests the iPhone Air 2 will be even thinner than the iPhone Air, at 5.2mm, but this may not address concerns about battery life and camera capabilities. The iPhone Air 2 is expected to feature a battery with a larger capacity than its predecessor, but it may be physically smaller due to the reduced thickness. Apple may be prioritizing thinness over other features.

Why it matters: This decision could impact the iPhone Air 2's appeal to potential buyers who prioritize battery life and camera capabilities over thinness.

MacRumors

Apple Shares Fall After News of iPhone 18 Pro Order Cuts

Apple's stock price dropped by over 2.5% in early trading after a report emerged that the company is reducing iPhone 18 Pro component orders due to lower-than-expected demand. The order cuts are said to be at least 15% for the month of October. Higher memory costs and a $100 price increase are reportedly contributing to the reduced demand.

Why it matters: This news may impact investors and Apple fans who are considering purchasing the iPhone 18 Pro.

MacRumors

Prime Day Leftover Deals: AirPods Max 2 for $429, Mac Mini for $779.99, and More

Amazon still offers discounts on various Apple products after Prime Day, including AirPods Max 2 for $429, Apple Watch Series 12 for $349.99 and $399.99, and Mac mini models for $779.99 and $949.99. The AirPods Max 2 is at a new all-time low price, and the Apple Watch Series 12 and Mac mini models are also discounted. The deals are available for a limited time.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on Apple products, which can be expensive.

MacRumors

The MacRumors Show: Apple's Smart Home Products Are Coming

Apple is expected to introduce a smart home hub, a new HomePod mini, and an updated Apple TV 4K at an event on October 13. The smart home hub will feature a 6-inch display, customizable clock and photo displays, and support for various apps. The Apple TV 4K is rumored to have improved gaming performance and support for Apple's Siri AI.

Why it matters: This development could give Apple a stronger presence in the smart home market and provide users with more options for integrating their Apple devices into their homes.

9to5Mac

Deals: AirPods Max 2 $120 off, Mac mini, MacBook Air, Magic Mouse 25% off, Nomad iPhone 18 Pro cases, more

Amazon is offering Apple's 2026 AirPods Max 2 at $429 shipped, a $120 discount from the $549 list price. The deal is available on all five colorways. Additionally, the M6 Mac mini is at all-time lows with up to $150 off, and the M5 MacBook Air is $200 off. The 512GB 13-inch M5 iPad Pro is also discounted to $1,549.99, a $150 savings.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant discounts on high-end Apple products, making them more accessible to consumers.

9to5Mac

Will Apple’s ‘Welcome home’ event be livestreamed? Here’s what we know

Apple has confirmed a 'Welcome home' product launch event for October 13, but it's unclear if there will be a livestream or keynote video. Mark Gurman reports that there will be an online video presentation, but it's unclear when it will be available. The event will feature an in-person component for press in NYC.

Why it matters: This announcement provides insight into Apple's evolving approach to product launches and may indicate a shift away from traditional keynote videos.

AppleInsider

Apple's M5 MacBook Air is $200 off, with prices from $1,099

Amazon is offering a $200 discount on the M5 MacBook Air, with prices starting at $1,099 for the 13-inch model. The discount applies to both standard and upgraded configurations, including the 15-inch line. The promotion is part of Prime Big Deal Days and is one of the lowest prices seen since Apple raised prices in June 2026.

Why it matters: This discount provides a significant savings opportunity for those in the market for a new MacBook Air.

AppleInsider

There's a way to play Meta Quest games on Apple Vision Pro

A project called AVP Play allows users to play Meta Quest games on Apple Vision Pro without accessing the App Store. The project lists Meta Quest VR games and indicates which ones are compatible with the Apple Vision Pro. Users can then download and run the games locally if they are compatible.

Why it matters: This project provides an alternative way for Apple Vision Pro users to access Meta Quest games, potentially expanding their VR gaming options.

MacRumors

Leak Details iPhone Features for Apple's LG Home Accessories

A leak reveals features of upcoming LG home accessories developed in collaboration with Apple, including proximity controls and a way to start setup before the devices have power. The accessories, which include a thermostat, temperature sensor, deadbolt lock, and security cameras, will use NFC and Bluetooth Low Energy to interact with iPhones and iPads. The features are still in active development and may change before release.

Why it matters: This development could enhance the functionality of Apple's HomeKit ecosystem and provide users with more convenient ways to interact with their smart home devices.

9to5Mac

Apple TV reveals ‘unconventional’ rom-com show with The White Lotus star

Apple TV has released the first look at its new romantic comedy series Prodigies, starring Will Sharpe and Ayo Edebiri, which will premiere on February 10, 2027. The series follows the story of two former child prodigies reevaluating their relationship. The show features an ensemble cast, including John Malkovich and Maria Bakalova.

Why it matters: The series offers a new take on the romantic comedy genre and is a notable addition to Apple TV's original content slate.

9to5Mac

SpaceX to become ‘major mobile carrier’ in US with Starlink Mobile upgrades

SpaceX announced plans to make Starlink Mobile a major mobile carrier in the US with the help of two new developments: low-band spectrum and a new satellite constellation. The low-band spectrum will provide coverage through obstacles and in buildings. The FCC has approved the deployment of 15,000 satellites optimized for 2 GHz spectrum globally.

Why it matters: This development could provide a new alternative to traditional mobile carriers for iPhone users.

9to5Mac

Apple’s new ‘second-party’ HomeKit products will have this exclusive iPhone feature

Apple's second-party HomeKit products, co-developed with LG, will have a new feature called Proximity Control. This feature allows iPhone users to control smart home accessories by tapping or bringing their iPhone near the device. The feature will show a notification in the Dynamic Island with an 'Open Controls' button or a 'camera viewer' depending on the type of accessory.

Why it matters: This feature will provide a more convenient way to control smart home devices, especially for users with multiple accessories.

AppleInsider

Telesin Master Grip Kit for iPhone review: Awkwardly packaged real optical zoom

The Telesin Master Grip Kit for iPhone is a camera accessory that adds optical zoom capabilities to the device, but its usability and value are questionable. The kit includes a case with a removable plate for lens attachment and a 3,200mAh battery for charging the iPhone via MagSafe. However, the kit's design and functionality have some drawbacks, including an awkward lanyard and overly complex controls.

Why it matters: The Telesin Master Grip Kit may be a consideration for iPhone users who want to improve their camera capabilities, but its high price and usability issues may deter some potential buyers.

MacRumors

Every M5 MacBook Air Now $200 Off on Amazon

Amazon is offering $200 off every model of the M5 MacBook Air, with prices starting at $1,099 for the 512GB 13-inch model and $1,299 for the 512GB 15-inch model. The discounts are available on all storage configurations and colors. Delivery estimates place most computers arriving early next week, with Prime members receiving them sooner.

Why it matters: This deal provides a significant discount on a high-end laptop, making it a good option for those in the market for a new MacBook Air.

9to5Mac

iOS 27.0.1 is now Apple’s recommended update for users still on iOS 26

Apple has updated its recommended update in Settings to iOS 27.0.1, making it the default option for users still on iOS 26. This change comes after the release of iOS 27.0.1, which is a minor update to the initial iOS 27 release. The update is now featured prominently in the Software Update screen.

Why it matters: This change may encourage more users to update to iOS 27, which is a major release with new features and bug fixes.

MacRumors

Mac Shipments Fall, But Apple Still Gains Ground in Shrinking Market

Apple's Mac shipments decreased by 11.3% in Q3 2026, but the company gained market share due to a sharper decline in overall PC shipments. Apple shipped 5.9 million Macs in Q3 2026, up from 8.5% to 9.5% market share. The global PC market saw a 20.1% decline in shipments compared to Q3 2025.

Why it matters: The decline in PC shipments and Apple's market share gain may indicate a shift in consumer preferences or a response to economic pressures.

AppleInsider

October Apple announcements & more Home Hub leaks on the AppleInsider Podcast

Apple is set to reveal its renewed smart home strategy on October 13, alongside new hardware like the Home Hub, HomePod mini, and Apple TV 4K. The event will also likely include M6 Mac updates, possibly for the iMac and OLED MacBook Pro with a touchscreen. The Home Hub tablet's use and function are still unclear.

Why it matters: The announcements could bring significant changes to Apple's smart home ecosystem and user experience.