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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

iOS 27.2 gives Apple Podcasts the big fix I’ve wanted for years

iOS 27.2 introduces a new layout for Apple Podcasts' Up Next feature, splitting it into two sections: New Episodes and Continue Playing. New Episodes shows the latest episodes for followed shows, while Continue Playing is a hub for uncompleted episodes. This change addresses the author's main issues with the previous Up Next queue.

Why it matters: This update may encourage users to revisit Apple Podcasts and consider it as their primary podcast app.

Deals: M5 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, AirTag 2, smart display power bank, early Prime Day deals, more

Amazon's early fall Prime Day sale features discounts on M5 MacBook Air models, a 14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro, Apple AirTag 2, and Belkin MagSafe charging stations. The sale also includes a new Twelve South Airfly Drive wireless CarPlay adapter. Deals range from $100 to $500 off list prices. The sale is live now and will continue through Prime Day.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on Apple products and accessories, making them more affordable for those who need them.

9to5Mac Daily: October 2, 2026 – MacBook Pro rumors, iPhone Duo display

The 9to5Mac Daily podcast for October 2, 2026, covers rumors about the MacBook Pro and the iPhone Duo display. The podcast is available on various platforms, including Apple's Podcasts app and Google Play. The podcast is sponsored by Stuff, a task management app for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Why it matters: This podcast provides a daily summary of Apple-related news and rumors for those interested in staying up-to-date on the latest developments.

Early October Prime Day deals: Save up to $600 on Mac, Apple Watch, Jackery, Ugreen

Early fall Prime Day deals are available now, offering up to $600 off current Apple hardware, up to 30% off Ugreen docks, and up to $150 off Jackery power stations. The deals include discounts on Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, MacBook Air and MacBook Pros, and Mac mini and Mac Studio. Amazon is also offering discounts on AirTags and Ugreen storage enclosures.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on Apple products and other electronics ahead of the October 6-7 Prime Big Deal Days sale.

Upgrading From an Older Apple Watch? Here's How the New Features Stack Up

The Apple Watch has received incremental updates, with the Series 12 offering more substantial changes than the Series 11. The Series 12's new features include heart sensors, HRV measurements, and a longer workout battery life. Upgrading from older models brings additional features, such as 5G connectivity and a larger display.

Why it matters: This information can help users decide whether to upgrade their Apple Watch or consider purchasing a refurbished or older model.

Texas school district ditches Chromebooks, approves $11M iPad and MacBook Neo deal

The Beaumont Independent School District in Texas has approved an $11.19 million deal to lease Apple devices for its students and teachers. The district will replace its aging Chromebook fleet with 14,585 Apple devices, including iPads and MacBook Neo units. The new devices are expected to provide better reliability and performance.

Why it matters: This decision may influence other school districts to consider Apple devices for their technology needs.

Beats 360 Cushion Kits and Apple Accessories See Early Prime Day Price Drops

Amazon has started offering early discounts on various products, including Beats 360 Cushion Kits, Apple accessories, and other electronics. The Beats 360 Cushion Kits are now available for $9.99, down from $49.99. Other deals include discounts on Mac Studio, Mac mini, and Apple Watch Ultra 4.

Why it matters: These early deals may help customers save money on upcoming purchases during Prime Big Deal Days.

HBO Max and Paramount+ set to merge under ‘Skydance’ brand

Paramount Skydance will acquire Warner Bros. Discovery on October 6, and the merged company will be named Skydance. The new company plans to combine HBO Max and Paramount+ into a single streaming service. The combined service is expected to have around 200 million subscribers.

Why it matters: The merger will create a large streaming service with a significant market share, potentially changing the competitive landscape of the streaming industry.

iPhone Duo can be just $9/month with trade-in using Apple Upgrade

Apple's iPhone Duo can be leased for $9/month with trade-in through the Apple Upgrade program, with options for 24-month leases starting at $57.99/month or outright purchase for $1,999. The program allows for the option to buy the device at the end of the lease term, with the trade-in credit still applied. Trading in a recent iPhone can significantly reduce the monthly cost.

Why it matters: This option can make the iPhone Duo more affordable for those who want to try out the device without committing to a high upfront cost.

Apple Store in UK Reopening on iPhone Duo Launch Day

The Apple SouthGate store in Bath, England is reopening on October 23 after a three-month renovation. The store will reopen on the same day as the iPhone Duo launch. The store was previously closed for renovations.

Why it matters: The reopening provides a new location for Apple fans in the UK to purchase the latest iPhone Duo.

iOS 27 gives Apple Photos two features we’ve waited a long time for

iOS 27 adds full-featured slideshow creation and upgraded iCloud Shared Albums to the Photos app, including customizable transition styles, auto-looping, and video saving. The new features allow for higher-quality photo and video sharing in Shared Albums. Users can now react with emojis, set participant permissions, and invite non-iOS users to contribute.

Why it matters: These upgrades enhance the Photos app's functionality and make it easier to share and collaborate on photo collections.

iOS 27 adds four new ways to customize your iPhone’s Lock Screen

iOS 27 introduces new customization options for the iPhone's Lock Screen, including new wallpaper settings, AI-powered image editing features, and the ability to move the clock to the top row of widgets. The new features allow users to create stylized wallpapers and adjust the size and position of the clock. The update also includes improvements to the Image Playground app and the ability to swipe away the Now Playing widget.

Why it matters: These changes give users more control over the design and functionality of their iPhone's Lock Screen.

AT&T claims iOS 27.0.1 fixes iPhone 18 Pro Max cellular issues, but users disagree

AT&T has told iPhone 18 Pro Max users to update to iOS 27.0.1 to fix connectivity issues, but early reports indicate the update does not resolve the problem. The issues, which affect calls, texts, and data, are exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro Max and appear to be widespread. The update was released earlier this week and addressed Face ID and camera performance issues.

Why it matters: iPhone 18 Pro Max users experiencing connectivity issues with AT&T may want to hold off on updating to iOS 27.0.1 until further notice.

Home Hub, iPhone 18 Pro cameras, and Meta VR on the AppleInsider Podcast

Leaked information suggests Apple will release a new Apple TV, HomePod mini, and Home Hub in October, possibly on October 13. The iPhone 18 Pro Max camera system is reportedly Apple's best yet, but the improvements are minor compared to previous years. AppleInsider's podcast discusses these rumors and other Apple-related news.

Why it matters: The upcoming Apple product releases may impact consumer purchasing decisions and the tech industry as a whole.

Optimistic AT&T tells iPhone 18 Pro Max iOS 27.0.1 update will fix call problems

AT&T has texted iPhone 18 Pro Max users to update to iOS 27.0.1 to fix cellular issues, but some users report the update does not address their problems. The issues include not being able to make or receive calls, and not sending or receiving text messages. Apple has not confirmed that iOS 27.0.1 fixes the problem.

Why it matters: This issue may affect a small number of iPhone 18 Pro Max users on AT&T, and updating to iOS 27.0.1 may not resolve the problem.

Be more comfortable at your desk, and think about ergonomics

Upgrading a desk setup with ergonomic features such as a sit-to-stand desk, a comfortable chair with adjustable armrests and back support, and a footrest can improve comfort and reduce health risks associated with prolonged sitting. A good desk should be deep and adjustable, allowing for proper monitor placement and leg movement. Investing in a high-quality chair and footrest can also help prevent back and core fatigue.

Why it matters: Improving ergonomics at your desk can help reduce the risk of health problems associated with prolonged sitting, such as back and core fatigue, and improve overall comfort.

M6 Mac mini review: Excellent hardware badly hampered by too-small SSD

The M6 Mac mini has a faster M6 chip with 12 cores, including two super cores, and a 40% faster CPU compared to the M4. The device has a compact design and a mix of ports, but the power button is located under the back corner of the casing. The base model has a limited 256GB SSD, which may not be enough for users with many apps and files.

Why it matters: The M6 Mac mini's limited storage capacity may be a concern for users who need to store large files and apps.

AT&T Acknowledges iPhone 18 Pro Max Issues: 'Update Immediately'

AT&T acknowledged iPhone 18 Pro Max users are experiencing cellular issues, advising them to update to iOS 27.0.1. The update did not resolve the issues for many users. Thousands of users have reported the problem on various online forums.

Why it matters: This issue may impact users' ability to make phone calls, send texts, and access data on their iPhone 18 Pro Max devices.

Apple TV’s acclaimed ‘The Last First: Winter K2’ documentary now streaming

The documentary 'The Last First: Winter K2' is now available to stream on Apple TV, with a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score. The film follows a 2021 expedition to the summit of Mount K2, exploring the changing culture of extreme mountain climbing. The documentary is directed by Amir Bar-Lev and features a 2021 expedition to the summit of Mount K2.

Why it matters: The documentary provides a unique perspective on the extreme mountain climbing industry and its culture.

iOS 27 breaks 15 years of muscle memory on iPhone and iPad

Apple has changed the way users access Notification Center on iPhone and iPad in iOS 27, replacing the traditional swipe down from the top edge with a swipe down from the center of the top edge to invoke Siri AI. The change also shrinks the Notification Center area, making it harder to access. Users can still access Notification Center by swiping down from the top-left corner.

Why it matters: This change may require users to adjust their muscle memory and potentially impact their workflow, especially for those who rely heavily on Notification Center.

Yankees Sweep Boston in Two Games, by Combined Score of 18-2

The New York Yankees defeated the Boston Red Sox in two games with a combined score of 18-2. Willson Contreras hit a home run in the 6th inning of the first game, but the Red Sox's momentum was lost due to Contreras's subsequent lack of attention. The Yankees' rally in the next inning led to a blowout win.

Why it matters: The outcome of the games has significant implications for the standings in the MLB season.

Apple commissions photographers for new ‘Shot on iPhone Duo’ campaign

Apple has launched a new 'Shot on iPhone Duo' campaign featuring photos taken by photographers Jake Michaels and Jason Nocito to showcase the iPhone Duo's camera capabilities. The campaign is a continuation of Apple's 10-year-old 'Shot on iPhone' campaign. The iPhone Duo will be available for pre-order on October 16 and in stores on October 23.

Why it matters: The campaign highlights the iPhone Duo's camera features, which may influence purchasing decisions for potential buyers.

Apple among biggest corporate lobbyists in Brussels, per report

Apple has met with EU policymakers 257 times since June 2024, spending €8-9 million per year on lobbying. The company's lobbying efforts are part of a broader trend of American corporations pushing back against EU digital rules. Google and Amazon also met frequently with EU officials, with Google leading the list with 302 meetings.

Why it matters: This information highlights the significant influence of large corporations in EU policy-making.

New 'AirFly Drive' Accessory Turns Wired CarPlay Into Wireless CarPlay

Twelve South has released the AirFly Drive, an accessory that converts wired CarPlay to wireless CarPlay using Wi-Fi. The device plugs into a vehicle's USB data port and pairs with an iPhone via Wi-Fi. The AirFly Drive is available in white or black for $39.99.

Why it matters: This accessory provides a convenient and cable-free way to use wireless CarPlay in vehicles that only support wired CarPlay.

New Final Cut Pro 13 features leak ahead of announcement

A YouTuber accidentally revealed features of the upcoming Final Cut Pro 13 update, including improved Pixelmator Pro round-tripping and a new Natural Motion Blur tool. The update is expected to be released in October. The features were discovered in a private video that was made public.

Why it matters: The update will likely bring significant improvements to video editing capabilities for Final Cut Pro users.

GrayKey maker can reportedly bypass the iPhone’s ‘Inactivity Reboot’ security feature

Magnet Forensics has reportedly developed a way to bypass the iPhone's Inactivity Reboot feature, which automatically reboots devices after 72 hours of inactivity. This feature makes it harder for law enforcement and forensic tools to access data on a locked iPhone. The workaround, called GrayKey Preserve, allows law enforcement to maintain an iPhone's forensic state without exposing the data stored on the device.

Why it matters: This development could potentially make it easier for law enforcement to access data on seized iPhones, even if the device has been rebooted.

Apple Shares Photos Shot on iPhone Duo

Apple shared six photos taken with the iPhone Duo, shot by American photographers Jake Michaels and Jason Nocito as part of a commissioned project. The iPhone Duo has four cameras, including a main camera with 2× optical zoom. The photos demonstrate the device's capabilities in the hands of skilled photographers.

Why it matters: The photos showcase the iPhone Duo's photography capabilities, which may influence purchasing decisions for potential customers.

Apple Arcade adds five new games, including Terraria+ and Pusheen’s Place

Apple Arcade has added five new games to its catalog, including Terraria+, Pusheen's Place, and River City Survivors. The new games are available exclusively to Apple Arcade subscribers, who can access them without ads or in-app purchases. The games were previously available on the App Store, but are now part of the Apple Arcade library.

Why it matters: This expansion gives Apple Arcade subscribers more options to choose from, with over 200 games now available in the service.

Audible announces AI-powered character guides, interactive stories, more

Audible announced three new features: Character Guide, Interactive Story, and Visual Explorer, which will be available on select audiobooks. Character Guide shows character details and allows users to ask questions, while Interactive Story enables real-time conversations with characters. Visual Explorer provides relevant imagery and visual context during listening.

Why it matters: These features aim to enhance the listening experience for Audible users, offering more interactive and immersive storytelling options.