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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

Ron Johnson & buying iPhones in Apple Stores on the AppleInsider Podcast

Ron Johnson, Apple's former head of retail, discussed the importance of Apple Stores in an interview on the AppleInsider Podcast. Johnson revealed that Apple would not have survived without the stores. He also discussed the impact of raising iPhone prices on Apple's market share in India. Additionally, a class action lawsuit may provide a $25 payout to iPhone owners who purchased devices with initial Apple Intelligence features.

Why it matters: The discussion highlights the significance of Apple's retail strategy and its impact on the company's success.

Apple Wallet in iOS 27 adds feature that’s been on my wishlist for years

iOS 27 adds a feature to Apple Wallet that allows users to import physical passes, such as loyalty or membership cards, by scanning a barcode or screenshotting a digital one. This feature is available on iPhone and Apple Watch. Users can also create and add passes directly from Apple Wallet.

Why it matters: This feature can simplify users' lives by eliminating the need to carry physical passes and reducing mental burden.

AirPods just got a long-requested feature in new software update

Apple has released a software update for AirPods that adds a custom EQ feature, allowing users to adjust the sound settings of their AirPods. The update is available for AirPods models with an H2 chip, including AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2. The update is automatically installed when AirPods are charging and within Bluetooth range of a connected device.

Why it matters: This update gives users more control over the sound quality of their AirPods.

Higher prices are just making iPhones more desirable in India

Apple's iPhone sales have increased in India despite higher prices, with the iPhone 18 Pro seeing 20% more demand than the iPhone 17 Pro. Customers are willing to pay more for the latest iPhone, driven by its premium and aspirational status. Apple's sales in India have been growing for four years, with the company's market share expected to reach 10% in 2026.

Why it matters: The trend suggests that Apple's premium pricing strategy is effective in certain markets, but may not be sustainable in the long term if customers lose interest in the brand.

How to leave iCloud without losing your data

Apple users who cancel or reduce their iCloud services may lose years of data if they don't export their information first. To avoid this, users should create an audit of their iCloud data and export it before making any changes. This process involves identifying which iCloud services store data, creating backups, and moving data to alternative storage solutions.

Why it matters: This information is crucial for Apple users who want to leave iCloud without losing their data, as it provides a step-by-step guide on how to safely export and transfer their information.

Apple Watch Ultra 4 review: An end-to-end health ecosystem

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 has been released with improved health features and a new Health Sensing System, which provides more accurate and frequent health metric tracking. The device's design remains the same as previous models, with the only notable change being a weight increase of 1.4 grams. The new system includes updated components and larger electrodes for more accurate readings.

Why it matters: The Apple Watch Ultra 4's improved health features and frequent health metric tracking may be useful for individuals who want to closely monitor their health and fitness.

Create a Custom Pass in the Wallet App on iPhone

Apple's Wallet app in iOS 27 allows users to create custom passes for physical cards, such as event tickets and membership cards, using Visual Intelligence or manual input. The process involves scanning the card's barcode or QR code and adjusting the template with relevant fields. Users can also add or remove fields as needed.

Why it matters: This feature enables users to digitize physical cards and access them more conveniently in the Wallet app.

How to Check Your Mac's Manufacture Date in macOS 27

macOS 27 allows users to check their Mac's manufacture date by going to System Settings > General > About and clicking on 'Regulatory Certification' under the System Report button. The certificate will display a 'Date of Manufacture' field. This feature was previously unavailable due to Apple's randomized serial numbers.

Why it matters: This update provides users with a straightforward way to determine their Mac's manufacture date, which can be useful for warranty and repair purposes.

How to watch 'It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown' for free in 2026

Apple TV will make 'It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown' available for free on October 17 and 18, 2026, as part of a deal with rights holders WildBrain and Peanuts Worldwide. The classic special will also be available for free during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons later in 2026. Apple TV holds streaming rights to all Peanuts content through 2030.

Why it matters: This means that anyone can watch the classic special without needing an Apple TV subscription during the specified dates.

Apple shares video highlighting new child safety features across its devices

Apple shared a video showcasing its child safety features across its devices, highlighting new and existing features for parents to manage their child accounts. The video demonstrates how parents can control app access, approve new apps and games, and set time allowances and schedules. The features are available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Why it matters: This video provides a clear guide for parents on how to use Apple's child safety features to manage their child's device usage.

‘Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars’ season 2 premieres on Apple TV

The second season of 'Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars' premiered on Apple TV, featuring 16 restaurants across Europe, the US, and Brazil. The show follows the pursuit of Michelin stars, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties faced by chefs and their teams. New episodes will be released every Friday through November 6.

Why it matters: The show provides a behind-the-scenes look at the culinary world and the efforts of chefs and restaurants to achieve Michelin recognition.

Rare ‘Antennagate’ press conference Q&A video surfaces online

A 47-minute Q&A session from Apple's 2010 Antennagate press conference has surfaced online, featuring Steve Jobs, Tim Cook, and Bob Mansfield. The Q&A session was previously not publicly available. The video shows the executives discussing the iPhone 4's signal drop issue and offering solutions.

Why it matters: This video provides a rare glimpse into a significant moment in Apple's history, offering insight into how the company handled a major controversy.

Apple and Qualcomm renew global patent licensing agreement

Apple and Qualcomm have renewed their global patent licensing agreement, extending a deal that was previously set to expire in 2027. The agreement was first signed in 2019 as part of a settlement to end a legal dispute between the two companies. The renewed agreement takes effect on April 1, 2027.

Why it matters: This renewal ensures that Apple will continue to have access to Qualcomm's patented technologies, which are used in its devices.

What's Gone in macOS Golden Gate and What's Next in macOS 28

macOS 28 will drop support for Rosetta 2, affecting apps that rely on it, with some exceptions for unmaintained legacy games. This change is a continuation of Apple's efforts to phase out Intel features. Users can check which apps will be affected by going to Settings > General > About > Intel-Based Apps.

Why it matters: This change may require developers to update their apps to maintain compatibility with macOS 28.

Apple Sports adds real-time Grand Slam draws, expands soccer coverage

Apple Sports app has expanded its soccer coverage by adding four new leagues and introduced real-time Grand Slam draws for tennis fans. The app now covers over 170 countries and regions. The update also includes features for 1000-level tournaments.

Why it matters: This update provides users with more sports content and features to follow their favorite teams and tournaments.

Victoria Song on Meta Muse’s Cuteness

Meta's AI agent, Muse, is being integrated into various Meta products, including smart glasses and a new wearable device called Charm. The AI agent is designed to assist with productivity, health, and relationship goals. Victoria Song, a Verge senior reviewer, shares her experience with Muse and its cute interface.

Why it matters: This integration highlights Meta's strategy to make AI more accessible and user-friendly, potentially increasing its adoption and usage.

TestFlight App Gets New iOS 27 Features

Apple updated the TestFlight app to version 4.4.0, adding support for new features and improving stability. The update includes support for landscape orientation on iPhone, resizing on iPhone Mirroring, and unspecified bug fixes. The update is available for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS.

Why it matters: This update enhances the functionality of the TestFlight app for developers and users testing iOS and macOS apps.

Joanna Stern Interviews Mark Zuckerberg

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg discussed new products, including audio-only Ray-Ban glasses and new VR glasses, in an interview with Joanna Stern. The glasses work by using AI to provide users with information and assistance. Zuckerberg also shared his vision for the future of computing, which includes widespread use of smart glasses with personal AI agents.

Why it matters: The interview provides insight into Meta's plans for AI-powered products and their potential impact on user privacy.

M6 Mac mini review, Apple fitness band rumors, Apple AI servers

Benjamin and Chance discussed the new M6 Mac mini and AirPods 5, Apple's first OS bug fixes, Apple Music Hall, and Siri AI performance in the latest 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus episode. The episode also promoted the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription service. Chance Miller and Benjamin Mayo are the hosts of the podcast.

Why it matters: The episode provides an overview of recent Apple news and updates for those interested in the company's products and services.

Google Photos Wardrobe Feature Comes to iOS

Google Photos has added a digital wardrobe feature to its iOS app, allowing users to organize and mix-and-match clothing items. The feature uses AI to categorize clothing in the user's photo library. The feature was previously available on Android.

Why it matters: This feature can help users plan outfits and share fashion ideas with friends.

Meta Connect Keynote 2026

Meta held a 55-minute keynote event announcing new consumer products, including third-generation Meta Glasses with cameras and Ray-Ban Meta Audio, audio-only smart glasses with microphones and speakers. The Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses are designed to be less expensive and have longer battery life than camera-equipped models. The Meta VR Glasses, dubbed 'The weight is over,' will feature a phone-sized puck connected to the glasses.

Why it matters: The announcements provide insight into Meta's consumer product strategy and the evolution of its wearable technology.

Apple Maps just added two new features in iOS 27

Apple Maps in iOS 27 has been updated with an enhanced Flyover experience and a new Local Lists feature. The enhanced Flyover experience combines aerial imagery with AI to provide detailed views of select cities. The Local Lists feature surfaces locally relevant places based on trending information, without tracking individual users.

Why it matters: These updates aim to enhance the overall user experience of Apple Maps, making it more useful for navigation and discovery.

Apple Music to Host Free Head Trip Festival Livestream

Apple Music will livestream the Head Trip music festival on October 10 and 11, featuring various electronic music artists. The festival will be held in Indio, California, and tickets for the in-person event have sold out. The livestream will be available for free to Apple Music subscribers.

Why it matters: The livestream allows music fans who cannot attend the festival in person to experience the performances for free.

macOS 27 Top Features: much more than just Siri AI [Video]

macOS 27 Golden Gate features various design updates, including new app icons, HDR support, and improved Liquid Glass design language. The update also addresses user complaints about macOS Tahoe, such as mismatched corner radii and cluttered menus. iPhone Mirroring has been improved with three major updates.

Why it matters: These changes aim to enhance the overall user experience and visual appeal of the operating system.

Apple has three products launching soon that we’ve waited a long time for

Apple is expected to launch a new MacBook Pro with a touchscreen, OLED display, and Dynamic Island in October, as well as a new Apple TV 4K with a powerful A19 or A19 Pro chip and Siri AI support. The new MacBook Pro will be the first major redesign of the product line in five years. A new HomePod with a display, called HomePad, is also rumored to be released in October, featuring a new OS and built-in camera.

Why it matters: These upcoming product releases may bring significant updates to Apple's ecosystem and user experience.

watchOS 27.2 Code Hints at iPhone-Style Screenshot Previews

Code in watchOS 27.2 suggests a new screenshot feature for Apple Watch, allowing users to preview, share, or delete screenshots after taking them, similar to iPhone behavior.

Why it matters: This feature could improve the user experience by providing more control over screenshots on the Apple Watch.

Apple Watch Ultra 4 includes a new watch face bezel option

Apple Watch Ultra 4 introduces a new bezel option for watch faces, allowing users to display their Readiness score and categories. The Readiness app, available on both Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, uses data to provide a score based on fitness activity, vitals, and sleep score. The new bezel configuration is available on certain watch faces, including Modular Ultra and Siri Modular.

Why it matters: This feature allows users to easily track their Readiness score throughout the day.

watchOS 27.2 includes hidden overhaul for Apple Watch screenshots

A leaked version of watchOS 27.2 includes a revamped screenshot experience for Apple Watch, inspired by iPhone and iPad, which allows users to preview, share, or delete screenshots immediately after taking them. The current screenshot process on Apple Watch only adds the screenshot to the Photos library. The new feature is hidden behind a feature flag in the watchOS 27.2 beta.

Why it matters: This change may improve user convenience and efficiency when taking screenshots on Apple Watch.

Beats 360 Headphones Now Available in Apple Stores

Beats 360 headphones are now available for purchase at Apple Stores, Best Buy, and Target, featuring improved noise cancellation and sound quality compared to the Beats Studio Pro. The headphones have interchangeable ear cushions and support features like Personalized Spatial Audio and Transparency mode. They are priced at $349.99 and come with Performance Knit memory foam cushions, with UltraPlush cushions available separately.

Why it matters: The Beats 360 headphones offer improved noise cancellation and sound quality for those in the market for a new pair of over-ear headphones.