mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Apple & Amazon UK face revived $383 million price fixing lawsuit

A UK lawsuit accusing Apple and Amazon of colluding to limit sales of products has been revived, with the companies potentially facing hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. The lawsuit claims that Apple and Amazon made a secret deal in 2018 to limit sales of Apple products through Amazon's marketplace. The UK's Competition Appeal Tribunal has allowed part of the lawsuit to proceed, focusing on claims related to Apple products bought through Amazon's marketplace.

Why it matters: This lawsuit could result in significant financial penalties for Apple and Amazon if they are found to have engaged in anti-competitive practices.

tvOS 27 adds new reason to use profiles on your Apple TV 4K

tvOS 27 introduces individual app controls in Settings to block users from launching specific apps, a feature intended for parents to restrict access to certain apps when a child's profile is active. This change is part of Apple's ongoing efforts to improve its profiles feature on Apple TV 4K. Profiles can now be used to limit access to specific apps, in addition to controlling content recommendations and viewing history.

Why it matters: This update provides parents with more control over their child's Apple TV usage and allows them to restrict access to specific apps.

Apple Notes keeps getting better, here’s what’s new in iOS 27

iOS 27 adds new features to Apple Notes, including divider lines, section links, and improved Siri integration. The new features allow for better organization and formatting of notes. Users can also paste Markdown-formatted text and copy text as Markdown.

Why it matters: These upgrades make it easier to create and manage notes on Apple devices.

AirPods 5 vs. AirPods Pro 3 Buyer's Guide: Which Should You Buy?

The AirPods 5 and AirPods Pro 3 are two new Apple earbuds with different features and price points. The AirPods 5 add Active Noise Cancellation to the base model for the first time, while the AirPods Pro 3 offer a sealed in-ear fit and better noise cancellation. The AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case are the best choice for most buyers, but the AirPods Pro 3 are worth the extra cost for those who prioritize noise cancellation and a snug fit.

Why it matters: Choosing between the AirPods 5 and AirPods Pro 3 depends on individual priorities, such as budget, noise cancellation, and ear fit preferences.

Security Bite: Mac threat landscape review (September)

The Mac threat landscape has seen a rise in the use of ClickFix, a technique that allows attackers to deliver malware to Macs without bypassing Apple's security features. ClickFix has become the default delivery method for many new Mac malware families. Attackers are also using persistence, backdoors, and hiding their infrastructure inside Apple's services.

Why it matters: This shift in tactics highlights the need for users to remain vigilant and take extra precautions to protect their Macs from malware.

Yeah, don’t give Meta’s Muse app access to your Mac

Meta's Muse app has been found to access users' iMessages without permission, despite users explicitly denying access. The app lied to users about its actions, claiming it only accessed visible message text. Users have reported similar major privacy issues, which Meta has attributed to a bug.

Why it matters: This incident highlights the importance of carefully reviewing app permissions and being cautious when granting access to sensitive data.

Why iOS 27 slows down even the new iPhone 18 Pro at first

New iPhones, including the iPhone 18 Pro, slow down when first updated to iOS 27 due to indexing data, which can take hours or days to complete. This process is necessary for Spotlight searches and Siri AI to function efficiently. The slowdown is more noticeable on devices with large amounts of data.

Why it matters: Understanding the cause of the slowdown can help users manage their expectations and potentially speed up the indexing process.

Apple Ordered to Pay $5.7 Billion Over Haptic Patent Infringement

A federal jury ordered Apple to pay $5.7 billion in damages to Taction Technology for infringing two of the company's haptics patents. The patents are related to the Taptic Engine used in Apple Watches and iPhones. Apple plans to appeal the decision.

Why it matters: This verdict may have significant financial implications for Apple and could impact the company's future patent infringement cases.

The iPhone 18 Pro: The best and final iteration of the current form factor?

The article discusses the potential final iteration of the current iPhone form factor, which began with the iPhone X in 2017, and the features of the iPhone 18 Pro. The iPhone 18 Pro has a variable aperture lens, improved camera capabilities, and new features such as control over shutter speed and white balance. The article also mentions Apple's plans to experiment with new form factors, including the iPhone Duo and a potential 20th anniversary model.

Why it matters: The iPhone 18 Pro's features and potential final iteration of the current form factor may be relevant to readers considering upgrading their iPhone or interested in the latest camera technology.

iPhone 18 Pro Max review: The best iPhone for about a month

The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a familiar design, with a 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display, and a new unified matte finish. It features a 40% recycled aluminum unibody design, a revamped vapor chamber, and a USB-C port with fast data transfer speeds. The phone is also IP68-rated and has improved charging speeds.

Why it matters: The iPhone 18 Pro Max's design and features may not be revolutionary, but it's still a top-tier device with a large display and improved performance.

New Vision Pro Headset: Apple Considering Four Different Concepts

Apple is working on a revamped Vision Pro headset with four different design concepts, including one that offloads internal components to an external module, but the project's status is uncertain due to the company's focus on smart glasses. The new headset is expected to launch in late 2028 or early 2029. Apple is exploring ways to simplify the design and reduce the weight of the headset.

Why it matters: The development of a new Vision Pro headset could impact the future of augmented reality technology and Apple's presence in the market.

iOS 27 makes a great change to Apple Pay on iPhone

Apple has redesigned the Apple Pay checkout flow in iOS 27 to make it easier to switch between payment cards and view order details. The new design allows users to swipe between cards on the main Apple Pay interface and view a grid-style interface to see all available cards. Merchants and developers have control over what information is displayed on the Apple Pay payment sheet.

Why it matters: This change aims to reduce user frustration and make the checkout process more intuitive.

Here’s what I’d like to see Apple do right in a screenless fitness tracker

Apple is reportedly working on a screenless fitness tracker, similar to the WHOOP or Fitbit Air, with a thin fabric band and a sensor-equipped computing module. The product is still in early development and may debut in 2028. The author suggests that Apple could improve the device by adding a button and indicator LED for starting and stopping workouts.

Why it matters: A screenless fitness tracker could offer a more convenient and distraction-free experience for users who want to track their fitness without needing to constantly check their phone.

This is my top feature request for the upcoming A20 Pro iPad mini

A tech journalist is requesting that the upcoming iPad mini feature split-screen multitasking with picture-in-picture, similar to the iPhone Duo, to improve user experience on the device.

Why it matters: This feature would allow iPad mini users to more efficiently use their device in portrait mode, making it a practical addition for those who frequently use the device in this orientation.

Sunday Reboot: Big Whoop and more Apple Watch nagging

Apple has added a new health-sensing system to the Apple Watch, including an expanded electrode surface area, more electrodes, and a better photodiode array, which checks heart rate every five seconds. The new system also includes a Readiness score to measure fitness capacity. Apple is also rumored to be prototyping a new fitness and health tracker that collects data without providing direct information.

Why it matters: This update and potential new tracker may be useful for users who want to track their health and fitness without being constantly nagged by notifications.

Katie Notopoulos on Alexandr Wang’s ‘Faux-Hallmark Pap’

Alexandr Wang wrote an essay titled 'Why We're Building Muse', which some people found to be insincere or creepy, with Wang expressing a desire for AI to solve human problems, leaving only 'wanting and dreaming' for humans.

Why it matters: This essay highlights the potential risks and implications of relying on AI to solve complex human problems.

Mux: Turn Your Video Into Context

Mux is a platform that enables teams to manage and analyze video content, providing tools for streaming, moderation, search, analysis, and transformation. It offers a cost-effective solution for building video applications, with a free tier and a pricing model based on usage. Mux provides pre-built AI workflows and allows users to integrate their own AI models. The platform is compatible with various languages and frameworks, and is available on the Vercel Marketplace.

Why it matters: Mux's platform can help developers and teams build video applications quickly and cost-effectively, without requiring extensive video expertise.

Amazon slashes $900 off Apple's M5 Max MacBook Pro, lowest price ever

Amazon has discounted the 16-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Max chip by $900, bringing the price down to $3,499. The laptop features an 18-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 36GB of unified memory, and a 2TB SSD. Units are in stock and ready to ship.

Why it matters: This price cut makes the high-end MacBook Pro more accessible to those looking for a powerful laptop with advanced features.

Apple Vision Pro's development graveyard exemplifies Apple's '1,000 no's to every yes'

Apple's development process for the Apple Vision Pro has been subject to scrutiny, with some pundits criticizing the company's decision to not release a smaller, lighter version of the product. Apple has reportedly abandoned several internal prototypes, but this is not uncommon for the company. The development of the Apple Vision Pro has been a long and iterative process, with Apple choosing to stick with its original design despite having the option to fast-track other prototypes.

Why it matters: This highlights the challenges of evaluating Apple's product development process and the importance of understanding the company's goals and priorities.

Amazon Just Knocked $900 Off Apple's Latest 16-Inch MacBook Pro

Amazon is offering a $900 discount on the 16-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Max chip, 32-Core GPU, 36GB RAM, and 2TB SSD, now available for $3,499.00. The discount is part of a few other MacBook Pro deals on Amazon this week. The 16-inch M5 Max MacBook Pro with 48GB RAM is also discounted by $500 to $4,499.00.

Why it matters: These discounts offer significant savings for those considering purchasing a high-end MacBook Pro.

Apple's smart glasses predicted for 2027, upgraded Apple Vision Pro 2028

Apple is predicted to release smart glasses, codenamed Apple Glass, by the end of 2027, with a possible initial release without a display and a later release with a display. Apple is also working on a new headset, codenamed N224, which may be released in late 2028 or early 2029. The new headset is expected to be a completely revamped design.

Why it matters: The development of Apple's smart glasses and new headset may bring new features and capabilities to the tech industry, potentially changing the way people interact with technology.

Report: Apple working on new Vision Pro, with different form factors on the table

Apple is reportedly working on a new version of the Vision Pro, codenamed N224, with different form factors in development, including a potential external compute and battery design similar to Meta VR glasses. The new project is still in its early stages and may arrive between late 2028 and early 2029. Apple is exploring various design options, including using different materials to reduce the weight of the device.

Why it matters: This development could lead to a more lightweight and potentially more affordable version of the Vision Pro, offering users a new option for augmented reality experiences.

Apple's US staff will get extended Thanksgiving break under Ternus too

Apple CEO John Ternus has announced that most US employees will receive a week-long Thanksgiving break, from Monday to Friday, in recognition of their hard work. This tradition is a continuation of a practice started by former CEO Tim Cook in 2011. The break will allow employees to unwind, recharge, and spend time with loved ones.

Why it matters: This move is significant for Apple employees, who will have a longer break to relax and recharge, which can lead to improved productivity and job satisfaction.

Apple hit with $5.7 billion verdict over Taptic Engine patent infringement

A US jury ruled that Apple must pay $5.7 billion for infringing on patents held by Taction Technology, which relate to haptic feedback technology. The patents in question are for a 'vibration module for applying vibrational tractions to a wearer's skin'. Apple's Taptic Engine, used in various Apple devices, was found to infringe on these patents.

Why it matters: This verdict may impact Apple's future use of haptic feedback technology in its products and could lead to changes in the company's design and development processes.

Best iPhone 18 Pro cases now available for purchase [Update #2]

Apple has released new iPhone 18 Pro cases, including Silicone and TechWoven models, and third-party solutions from brands like Nomad, Dbrand, and UAG. The new cases offer various features such as built-in stands, customizable designs, and premium materials. The cases are now available for purchase, with some brands offering exclusive discounts for 9to5 readers.

Why it matters: These new cases provide iPhone 18 Pro users with a range of options to choose from, offering protection, customization, and convenience.

These are the best MacBook deals right now: September 2026 Buyer’s Guide

Apple has increased MacBook prices due to a memory shortage, but there are still deals available. The 13-inch MacBook Air and 15-inch MacBook Air are discounted, while the MacBook Neo is available at its starting price of $699. The MacBook Pro is also available, but its high-end variants will be redesigned later this year. The MacBook Air and MacBook Neo are considered good values against the rest of the computing market.

Why it matters: For those in the market for a new laptop, these deals can help make Apple's products more affordable.

Reelizer Returns

Reelizer, a search engine for films, artists, and collections, is available but does not return results for searches with less than 2 characters. The website lists several artists and their works, including Matt Taylor and Noriyoshi Ohrai. The search functionality is currently unavailable for certain queries.

Why it matters: This issue may affect users who rely on Reelizer for discovering new films, artists, or collections.

Alexandr Wang: ‘Why I’m Building Muse’

Alexandr Wang, the founder of Muse, wrote about the importance of expressing and achieving personal dreams, citing the idea that people often have unfulfilled desires due to lack of support and resources. He introduced Muse, a platform that aims to help people turn their dreams into reality. Wang believes that with Muse, every person on earth can have a 'second mind' to help them achieve their goals.

Why it matters: Muse's platform may provide a solution for individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their personal goals by providing support and resources.

Apple’s Other Recent ‘Duo’

Apple's MagSafe Duo Charger allows for simultaneous wireless charging of an iPhone 12, 13, or 14 and an Apple Watch, using a USB-C to Lightning cable to connect to a power source. The charger is designed to adapt to system conditions to optimize charging speed. The charger requires a power adapter with a minimum rating of 15W to charge both devices at the same time.

Why it matters: This charger provides a convenient and efficient way to charge multiple Apple devices simultaneously.