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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Indie App Spotlight: ‘QuillCue’ levels up your Siri AI experience with stored prompts

QuillCue is an iOS app that allows users to save and reuse custom Siri AI prompts using a custom keyboard. The app provides a way to insert prewritten prompts into Siri AI, saving time and effort. Users can also organize prompts in folders and share them with others.

Why it matters: This app can make Siri AI more efficient and convenient to use, especially for users who frequently ask the same questions or perform repetitive tasks.

International Standard Paper Sizes

The ISO 216 paper size system is based on a square-root-of-two ratio between height and width, with the A series defined by cutting larger formats into two equal pieces. The B series is defined as the geometric mean between A and A-1 formats, while the C series is defined for envelopes. The system is used internationally, but the Japanese JIS B series has a different definition.

Why it matters: Understanding the ISO 216 paper size system can help designers and users choose the correct paper size for their documents and envelopes.

Save $200 on Apple Watch Ultra 3 with Milanese Loop while supplies last

Amazon is offering a $200 discount on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with a Milanese Loop style, bringing the price down to $699.97. The deal is available while supplies last and includes delivery as early as tomorrow. The offer is only for the Black Titanium Case style with a Black Titanium Milanese Loop Band in size Large.

Why it matters: This deal can help readers save money on a premium Apple Watch model.

Apple Watch Series 12 one week later: There’s so much more than meets the eye

The Apple Watch Series 12 has been used for a week, revealing features beyond the initial Siri Recap and improved heart rate monitor, including longer battery life, faster charging, and a new Readiness app. The watch's battery life is sufficient to last through a day and overnight, and charging anxiety is reduced. The S11 chip is likely responsible for the improved performance. The Apple Watch Series 12 also features a proper step counter complication and Ceramic Shield 2 on aluminum models. The watch feels faster, especially with Siri, and the new features make it a substantial upgrade over the previous model.

Why it matters: The Apple Watch Series 12's improved battery life and features make it a worthwhile upgrade for those who want a more comprehensive smartwatch experience.

Microsoft Took the ‘Copilot+ PC’ Brand Out Behind the Shed

Microsoft has removed the 'Copilot+ PC' branding from its website and other platforms, indicating a possible rebranding or discontinuation of the service.

Why it matters: This change may impact users who were relying on the 'Copilot+ PC' service, and could indicate a shift in Microsoft's AI-powered productivity strategy.

The Talk Show: ‘I’m Thinking X, Not X’

Andru Edwards returned to The Talk Show to discuss Apple's September event and new products, including the iPhones 18 Pro and Duo, AirPods 5, and Apple Watch Series 12/Ultra 4. The discussion covered the new products. The episode was sponsored and edited by Transcripts and Caleb Sexton, respectively.

Why it matters: The episode provides insight into Apple's latest products and their features.

Apple owes Taction $5.7B after losing haptic feedback IP trial

A jury has ruled that Apple owes Taction $5.7 billion for infringing on two patents related to the Taptic Engine, a haptic feedback system used in Apple Watch and other devices. The verdict was delivered after a five-year-long lawsuit. Apple plans to appeal the decision.

Why it matters: This ruling may have significant financial implications for Apple and could impact the company's future use of haptic feedback technology.

These are my favorite iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max cases so far [Video]

The author has reviewed several iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max cases, highlighting their favorite options for protection and design. The cases include Pitaka's Edge, Nomad's Sport Case, Xtremm Inno, Rokform, BodyGuardz Weave, and Spigen's Nano Pop. Each case offers unique features such as customization, protection, and design options. The author recommends checking out their hands-on video for a closer look at each case.

Why it matters: This review provides readers with a selection of case options for the new iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max, helping them make an informed decision when choosing a case for their device.

Top Stories: Apple Leaks, Siri AI Settlement, and More

MacRumors leaked details on upcoming Apple products, including the next iPad mini, HomePod mini, and Apple TV 4K. The leaks revealed new features such as an A20 Pro chip, a new speaker design, and a landscape front camera for the iPad mini. Apple also confirmed new colors for the next HomePod mini, including green and pink.

Why it matters: The leaks provide insight into Apple's upcoming product lineup and features, which may be relevant for potential buyers considering purchasing these devices.

Apple @ Work: The enterprise needs to kill the SSO tax, and it’s an opportunity for Apple

Apple IT admin Bradley Chambers argues that the Single Sign-On (SSO) tax in enterprise software is a major issue, as it often requires companies to pay extra for secure login, leading to security risks. He suggests that Apple could solve this problem by acquiring Clever, a platform that offers free SSO to schools and districts, and charges vendors to be part of its app gallery. Apple already has some of the necessary components, but lacks a connective service to integrate them.

Why it matters: This issue affects many companies, as 37% of enterprise SaaS apps are not managed via SSO, leaving a critical security gap.

Weekend Apple deals: Beats 360, AirPods Pro 3, Mac Studio, MacBook Air, more

Amazon is offering various deals on Apple products, including the AirPods Pro 3, Mac Studio, and MacBook Air, as well as iPhone 18 Pro accessories and cases. The Beats 360 Over-Ear Headphones are also discounted with a modular Cushion Kit. Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 are also on sale. The deals are available during the early fall Prime Day sale at Amazon.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on Apple products and accessories, which may be useful for those planning to purchase new devices or upgrade their existing ones.

watchOS 27: 12 New Things To Check Out on Your Apple Watch

Apple released watchOS 27, which includes new features and changes for compatible Apple Watch models. The update allows users to access a dedicated Siri app, a new Siri watch face, and a dynamic grid of suggested and frequently used apps. Users can install the update by opening the Watch app on their iPhone and following the onscreen prompts.

Why it matters: The update provides users with a more streamlined and personalized experience on their Apple Watch.

OpenAI accuses Apple of improperly adding new evidence to trade secrets case

OpenAI and its co-defendants have filed a motion to strike Apple's new evidence and expert declarations in a trade secrets case, accusing Apple of improperly introducing new material after the defendants' response. The new evidence includes five expert declarations and 13 exhibits. The defendants argue that Apple should not be allowed to introduce this new information as it would be unfair to respond to it.

Why it matters: This development could impact the outcome of the trade secrets case and the potential injunction against OpenAI and its co-defendants.

Mr. Choyka Is Apparently Doing Well

Gary Choyka, a 67-year-old retired school teacher and basketball coach, achieved two hole-in-ones in the same round at LPGA International in Daytona Beach, Florida. The odds of this happening are 67 million-to-one. Choyka used a 7-iron for both shots.

Why it matters: This rare achievement highlights the exceptional skill and luck required to make a hole-in-one, even for an experienced golfer.

macOS 27 adds new Apple Intelligence features to your favorite apps

Apple has released macOS 27 Golden Gate to the public after several months of beta testing. The update includes Apple Intelligence enhancements to various Apple apps, such as Photos, Safari, Shortcuts, and Finder. New features include image editing tools, tab grouping, and automated shortcut creation.

Why it matters: The update brings AI-powered features to everyday Mac apps, making tasks more efficient and convenient for users.

Apple’s dimensional drawings offer a fascinating look at its product designs

Apple publishes detailed dimensional drawings of 96 devices, including the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5, to help accessory makers design products. The drawings include precise measurements and instructions for buttons, cameras, sensors, and connectors. The documents are available on Apple's developer website in the Accessories area.

Why it matters: These drawings can be useful for accessory makers and enthusiasts who want to create custom products or learn more about Apple's hardware design.

TestFlight now works in landscape as Apple prepares for iPhone Duo

Apple updated TestFlight to support landscape orientation and additional aspect ratios, mirroring the changes introduced in macOS 27 Golden Gate. The update allows for a two-column layout in landscape mode and better use of horizontal space on the app details screen. The changes are seen as a preparation for the upcoming iPhone Duo.

Why it matters: This update is significant for developers who will be adapting their apps to support the iPhone Duo's unique features.

Apple faces class action over Apple Pay fees charged to card issuers

A US federal judge has certified a class-action lawsuit against Apple over alleged inflated fees charged to payment card issuers for Apple Pay transactions. The lawsuit claims Apple charges US issuers 0.15% on credit card transactions and 0.5 cents on debit card transactions. The lawsuit seeks reimbursement for card issuers and an injunction against Apple's policies.

Why it matters: This case may impact the fees charged to payment card issuers for Apple Pay transactions and potentially affect the mobile payments landscape.

Stock UI in MacOS 27 Eschews Clarity

A designer shared a mockup of a revised macOS Finder interface with a more traditional title/toolbar design, arguing it improves clarity and hierarchy.

Why it matters: The redesign could potentially influence future macOS design decisions and provide a more intuitive user experience.

Imagining the next MacBook Neo

The article discusses the potential future of the MacBook Neo, a laptop that uses Apple's A18 Pro processor. The author speculates about whether the next MacBook Neo will use the A19 Pro or A20 Pro processor. The A20 Pro would provide a significant performance boost, but the author thinks Apple may opt for the A19 Pro due to cost constraints.

Why it matters: This article is relevant for readers who are interested in Apple's product roadmap and the potential future of the MacBook Neo.

Apple Music Hall confirms first eight shows, starting with Elton John

Apple Music Hall in London has announced its first eight shows, with Elton John performing next week. The venue, which can hold up to 600 people, will also livestream performances globally through Apple Music. The lineup includes Elton John, Baby Keem & Skye Newman, and other artists.

Why it matters: The announcement provides insight into the types of artists and events that will be featured at the new concert venue.

9to5Mac Overtime 083: iPod Shuffle vibes

The 9to5Mac Overtime team discussed Apple's rumored screenless fitness tracker, the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, and Apple Watch Ultra 4. Fernando shared his hands-on experience with these devices. The team also covered disappointing news about aftermarket SSD upgrades for the M6 Mac mini.

Why it matters: This podcast provides insight into Apple's upcoming products and potential limitations of the M6 Mac mini.

Brent Simmons on ‘Stock’ Mac UI

Brent Simmons, a longtime Mac developer, expresses his disappointment with the macOS UI and argues that using stock Mac UI may not be the best approach for developers. He cites the example of the app Things, which has a custom UI but is still widely used and familiar to users. Simmons also notes that using stock Mac UI did not save him and his team more work when implementing Liquid Glass, and that custom UIs may actually be easier to maintain.

Why it matters: This discussion highlights the evolving nature of user expectations and the challenges of maintaining a consistent UI in the Mac ecosystem.

Banks and Credit Unions to Team Up Against Apple Pay Fees

A US District Judge has certified a class in an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, allowing banks and credit unions to sue the company over Apple Pay fees. The lawsuit claims Apple collects up to $1 billion annually in fees by preventing rivals from accessing the iPhone's NFC chip. Apple has been accused of forcing card issuers to pay fees by making Apple Pay the only tap-to-pay option.

Why it matters: This development could lead to changes in Apple's policies and potentially lower fees for card issuers.

Apple TV has too many good shows on now and I can’t keep up

Apple TV has increased its output of high-quality shows, making it difficult for the author to keep up with their viewing schedule. The streamer has multiple shows currently airing, including Dark Matter, Brothers, and Last Seen. The author is also behind on other shows, such as Silo season 3 and Sugar season 2.

Why it matters: This development may be a concern for viewers who struggle to manage their time and prioritize their viewing schedules.

Apple Finally Shares tvOS 27 Release Notes With List of New Features

Apple has released tvOS 27 with new features and improvements, including video podcasts in the Podcasts app, AutoMix in Apple Music, and improved AirPlay performance. The release notes were shared nearly two weeks after the software update was released. The update also includes bug fixes and security updates for the Apple TV 4K.

Why it matters: This update provides new features and improvements to the Apple TV experience, making it more convenient and enjoyable for users.

Amazon's $199 Discount on Apple Watch Ultra 3 Returns to Help Clear Stock

Amazon has discounted the Apple Watch Ultra 3 to $599.97 and $699.97, down from $799.00 and $899.00, respectively. The discounts are available on two different models: one with a Black Ocean Band and another with a Black Milanese Loop. Delivery dates for some devices are slipping into October.

Why it matters: These discounts offer consumers a chance to purchase a previous-generation Apple Watch at a lower price point.

★ I’ll Wait

Meta's Muse app remains the top app in the iOS App Store, with the company promoting it heavily on its own channels. The Mac app version of Muse is more powerful but is not available in the Mac App Store due to Apple's restrictive policies. The author is hesitant to grant access to sensitive information to the AI-powered Muse app.

Why it matters: This highlights the ongoing debate around the use of AI-powered personal assistants and the need for users to carefully consider the level of access they grant to these services.

Thousands of banks can now sue over Apple Pay fees in one antitrust case

A federal judge certified a class action lawsuit against Apple, allowing thousands of US banks and credit unions to sue the company over Apple Pay fees. The lawsuit claims Apple blocked competing tap-to-pay wallets on iPhone while charging card issuers fees for transactions. The judge rejected Apple's attempt to exclude the plaintiffs' damages expert.

Why it matters: This ruling could lead to Apple being forced to repay fees to thousands of banks and credit unions, and potentially change its practices regarding Apple Pay fees.