mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

9to5Mac

New Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 fitness feature is surprisingly motivating

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 now display live step tracking data on the watch face, a feature previously available in third-party apps. This data is collected by the Apple Watch and was previously only accessible through the Fitness and Health apps. The feature is available on the new hardware, which is more capable and efficient.

Why it matters: This feature can be a motivating tool for users to increase their physical activity, especially those with desk jobs.

AppleInsider

Aqara FP400 sensor, new iOS 27 app updates, & more news on Smart Home Insider

Apple has released the first beta of iOS 27.2, which includes a new Health app and supports profiles in the Apple TV app. Amazon has increased prices for its smart home devices, including the Echo Dot and Fire Stick 4K Max. Aqara has released a new spatial sensor, the FP400, which can detect presence and identify up to 10 individuals in a room.

Why it matters: These updates and price changes may impact users' smart home experiences and budgeting for new devices.

Daring Fireball

‘Measuring Nothing (With Great Accuracy)’

John Gruber discusses the limitations of measuring things that are easily quantifiable, such as the weight of a TV or the number of words in a book, and how these measurements often do not correlate with the actual quality or impact of the thing being measured. He argues that many metrics, such as Klout score or processor speed, are not reliable indicators of their respective qualities. Gruber suggests that it takes courage to create things that don't fit into conventional measurement frameworks.

Why it matters: This article highlights the importance of considering the limitations of metrics and focusing on what truly matters in evaluating quality and impact.

AppleInsider

M5 Ultra Mac Studio's GPU, AI performance keeps up with desktop graphics cards

Early benchmarks indicate the M5 Ultra in the new Mac Studio has graphical and AI performance comparable to the Nvidia RTX 5080, with Metal test results ranging from 350,000 to 360,000 and OpenCL scores around 210,000 to 220,000. The M5 Ultra's performance is a significant improvement over the previous M3 Ultra, which scored 249,564 and 140,821 in the same tests, respectively. The Mac Studio's energy efficiency is also a notable advantage, drawing significantly less power than high-end graphics cards like the RTX 5080.

Why it matters: The M5 Ultra's performance and energy efficiency make it a viable option for AI research and development, which often requires high-powered computing rigs.

9to5Mac

‘HomePad’ to launch next month with these new features: report

Apple's long-awaited home hub device, 'HomePad', is expected to launch in October with a screen and Siri AI capabilities. The device will allow users to control their smart home and access information across their devices and accounts. The HomePad is expected to launch alongside new Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini devices.

Why it matters: The HomePad's Siri AI capabilities will enable users to perform complex searches and tasks across their Apple devices and accounts.

MacRumors

OWC's Best Mac Accessories Are on Sale Just for MacRumors Readers

OWC's best Mac accessories are on sale for MacRumors readers through September 30, with discounts on Thunderbolt docks, USB-C cables, and external storage enclosures. The sale includes 13 items, with notable discounts on the OWC Thunderbolt Go Dock and OWC ThunderBay 4 External Storage Enclosure. Discounts have been applied automatically, and readers can access the sale by following links to OWC's website.

Why it matters: This sale provides Mac users with an opportunity to upgrade their desktop setup with discounted accessories.

MacRumors

New Mac Studio's Biggest Upgrade Isn't the M5 Ultra Chip, Review Says

The first reviews of the new Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips have been published, highlighting significantly faster storage speeds as the biggest upgrade. The computer achieved around 2.6× faster SSD read speeds and around 2.1× faster SSD write speeds compared to a previous-generation Mac Studio. The M5 Ultra chip also showed up to 30% faster single-core CPU performance and up to 35% faster multi-core performance compared to the M3 Ultra.

Why it matters: The improved storage speeds and CPU performance of the new Mac Studio may be significant for users who rely on demanding tasks such as video editing and AI inference.

AppleInsider

Mac Studio review roundup: expensive, but M5 Ultra makes it worthwhile

The first reviews of the M5 Max and M5 Ultra Mac Studio are out, highlighting their exceptional performance, with the M5 Ultra model being around 30% faster than a similarly-configured M3 Ultra in both single-core and multicore tests. The M5 Ultra model is capable of incredible performance, but its high price may not be worth it for all buyers. The Mac Studio with M5 Ultra is a high-end machine that only the most intensive workloads will challenge.

Why it matters: The M5 Ultra Mac Studio's performance may be a game-changer for professionals and power users who require high-end computing capabilities.

9to5Mac

CarPlay just got better, here’s everything new in iOS 27

iOS 27 has been released, bringing improvements to CarPlay, including a new Siri design and capabilities, video support, and design updates. The new Siri AI can answer questions and retain conversation context. CarPlay now supports dedicated video apps and has a new MiniPlayer and refreshed app icons.

Why it matters: These updates enhance the CarPlay experience, making it more convenient and user-friendly for drivers.

AppleInsider

Unsurprisingly, iPhone 18 Pro Max SSD will slow down when hammered

The iPhone 18 Pro Max's 1TB storage can slow down under extreme, sustained loads due to its quad-level cell (QLC) storage. This is expected, as QLC storage is slower than triple-level cell (TLC) storage. Testing showed the 1TB storage reached speeds as low as 25.6MB/s under extreme loads.

Why it matters: This means that users who frequently write large amounts of data to their iPhone 18 Pro Max may experience slower performance under certain conditions.

AppleInsider

A clever workaround lets the iPhone 18 Pro Max skirt battery shipping limits

The iPhone 18 Pro Max ships with a temporarily locked battery capacity, which is automatically unlocked after activation. This is done to comply with shipping regulations. The battery capacity is restricted to below 20 watt-hours to avoid extra shipping requirements.

Why it matters: This workaround allows Apple to ship the iPhone 18 Pro Max without permanently reducing its battery capacity.

AppleInsider

Sensitive camera blades and thermal chainmail surface in iPhone 18 Pro teardown

iFixit performed a detailed teardown of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, revealing a variable aperture camera with six overlapping polymer-composite blades and a thermal chainmail design. The camera is difficult to repair due to its complex mechanism. The devices' repairability score is 7 out of 10, with the display being a major obstacle.

Why it matters: The repairability of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro max may impact consumers' ability to fix their devices when they break, potentially affecting their environmental and financial sustainability.

9to5Mac

M5 Ultra Mac Studio reviews: local AI powerhouse

Reviewers are testing the M5 Ultra Mac Studio, a powerful desktop Mac, and finding it suitable for local AI agents with great performance and no cloud costs. The M5 Ultra Mac Studio can run personal assistants powered by local models. The machine is compared to the M3 Ultra and a gaming PC, showing its advantages in thermal performance and unified memory.

Why it matters: This matters for users who want to run AI models locally without relying on cloud services or incurring additional costs.

MacRumors

How to Force Quit Apple Watch Apps in watchOS 27

Apple Watch users can force quit apps in watchOS 27 by holding the Side button and Digital Crown, replacing the previous method of swiping up in the App Switcher screen. This method is useful for closing misbehaving apps. The new method does not save battery power.

Why it matters: This change helps users troubleshoot issues with problematic apps on their Apple Watch.

AppleInsider

Mac mini review roundup: M6 and M5 Pro make this a marvel, but a costly one

The new M5 Pro and M6 Mac mini models have been reviewed by several publications, with reviewers praising their performance but criticizing their high price. The M5 Pro and M6 Mac mini offer improved processing power, but at a cost of up to $6,799. The devices have been described as 'flawless' and 'one of the best tiny computers you can buy', but the price increase is a major drawback.

Why it matters: The new Mac mini models are a significant upgrade for users who need powerful processing, but the high price may be a barrier for those on a budget.

9to5Mac

New all-glass iPhone 20 Pro rumor reveals another design change

A new rumor suggests the iPhone 20 Pro and iPhone 20 Pro Max will have larger screens than their predecessors, with diagonal measurements of 6.7 inches and 6.9 inches respectively. The devices are also expected to feature a borderless quad-curved design with a hole-punch display and a smaller Dynamic Island. Apple is reportedly testing a design made primarily from glass.

Why it matters: The rumored design changes could impact the user experience and handling of the upcoming iPhone models.

Six Colors

Apple adds mode to temporarily limit the iPhone 18 Pro Max battery for shipping ↦

Apple has implemented a feature on the iPhone 18 Pro Max to temporarily limit its battery capacity to below 20 Wh for shipping purposes, which is a requirement for international regulations. This is done through a firmware solution that can be removed when the phone is activated. The feature can be manually triggered in Settings if the phone needs to be shipped after use.

Why it matters: This feature is relevant for individuals who need to ship their iPhone 18 Pro Max, such as those who participate in beta testing or need to send their device for repair.

MacRumors

New Mac Mini and Mac Studio Launch Tomorrow

Apple's new Mac Mini and Mac Studio will launch on September 22, offering M6 and M5 Pro chip options for the Mac Mini and M5 Max or M5 Ultra chip options for the Mac Studio. The new models do not have significant design changes, only spec bumps. Pre-orders for the devices began on August 25.

Why it matters: This launch provides consumers with new options for upgrading their Mac hardware.

Six Colors

M6 Mac mini review: Tiny, pricey, and powerful

The new Mac mini features the M6 chip, a next-generation 2-nanometer processor, and supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. The device has a starting price of $899, a 50% increase from the previous base price of $599. The Mac mini's design remains unchanged from the previous model.

Why it matters: The M6 chip's performance and power efficiency will be significant for users who rely on their Mac mini for demanding tasks and want to minimize their energy consumption.

9to5Mac

M6 Mac mini review: Apple’s most versatile Mac continues to shine

The M6 Mac mini has been reviewed, showing impressive performance and a compact design. It features a 2nm processor, increased memory bandwidth, and a new 12-core GPU. The M6 Mac mini supports up to three displays and has improved connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gb Ethernet. The M6 chip offers up to 2x faster storage and AI performance compared to the M4 Mac mini. The M6 Mac mini outperforms the M4 in Geekbench tests, with a 24% lead in single-core performance and 48% lead in multi-core performance.

Why it matters: The M6 Mac mini's performance and connectivity upgrades make it a compelling option for users who need a powerful and versatile Mac for various workflows.

MacRumors

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 May Have Hidden Flash Storage

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 may have 128GB of NAND flash storage, despite officially offering 64GB. A Chinese hardware researcher made the claim. The reason for the discrepancy is unclear.

Why it matters: This discovery may impact users' understanding of their device's storage capacity and potential limitations.

9to5Mac

Apple Fitness+ team hit by layoffs, as ‘major changes’ reportedly loom

Apple has laid off a small number of employees working on audio features for Apple Fitness+, with more changes expected in the future. The layoffs are seen as a cost-cutting measure, with the service's future under review. The service's leadership has shifted to Eddy Cue and Sumbul Desai, who are pushing for Apple to be more competitive in health and fitness.

Why it matters: This development may impact the frequency and quality of new content on Apple Fitness+.

9to5Mac

You can now claim your payout from Apple’s $250 million Siri settlement

Apple is paying $250 million to settle a class action lawsuit over Siri delays, with eligible iPhone users able to claim a payout of up to $95 per device. The payout is expected to be $25 per device, but could vary depending on the number of claims filed. The deadline to submit a claim is December 21, 2026.

Why it matters: Eligible iPhone users can claim a payout from Apple's $250 million settlement over Siri delays.

AppleInsider

iPhone 20 Pro screen resolution detailed in new leak

A new leak claims the iPhone 20 Pro and Pro Max will have larger screens with resolutions of 2686x1236 and 2912x1340 pixels, respectively. The screens will reportedly be curved and have no bezels. The iPhone 20 Pro is expected to be unveiled in September 2027.

Why it matters: The new screen specifications may be relevant for readers considering purchasing a new iPhone in the future.

AppleInsider

Claim your $25 in Apple's $250 million settlement over delayed Siri features

A $250 million settlement has been reached in a class-action lawsuit against Apple over delayed Siri features. The settlement allows eligible iPhone owners to claim up to $95 per device. The claim website is now live and must be accessed by December 21.

Why it matters: Eligible iPhone owners can claim a portion of the settlement, potentially receiving up to $95 per device.

AppleInsider

Australia's Prime Minister says Tim Cook backs the country's social media curbs

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with Tim Cook at Apple Park, where Cook praised Australia's efforts to reduce the negative effects of social media. The meeting was part of Cook's first duties as Apple's Chief Executive. Albanese said Cook regarded Australia's social media policies as 'world-leading'.

Why it matters: This development highlights the growing importance of social media regulation and the role of tech companies in addressing its negative impacts.

MacRumors

iPhone 20 Pro Display Sizes Leak Ahead of 2027 Launch

A Chinese leaker claims that the iPhone 20 Pro and Pro Max will have slightly larger displays than the iPhone 18 Pro models, with the Pro model featuring a 6.41-inch screen and the Pro Max featuring a 6.96-inch screen. The resolutions of the new displays are approximately 2,686 × 1,236 pixels and 2,912 × 1,340 pixels, respectively. The increases in display size are modest, suggesting Apple may be working on a 'borderless quad-curved' display design.

Why it matters: The new display sizes and potential design changes could impact the user experience and camera capabilities of the upcoming iPhone models.

MacRumors

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 Owners Report Unexpected Reboots

Some Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Series 12 owners report unexpected reboots, with diagnostic logs suggesting the issue is related to the Apple Neural Engine. The reboots occur while users are interacting with the device or when it is idle. At least 30 owners have reported the issue on the MacRumors forums and other platforms.

Why it matters: This issue may be a concern for users who rely on their Apple Watch for critical functions, such as tracking workouts or receiving important notifications.

MacRumors

iFixit Shares iPhone 18 Pro Teardown With Inside Look at New Features

iFixit published a teardown of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, revealing details about the devices' internal components and design changes. The teardown confirmed battery capacities for eSIM-only models and provided an in-depth look at the new variable aperture system and cooling system. The teardown also highlighted potential repair challenges and design issues.

Why it matters: The teardown provides valuable information for consumers and repair technicians looking to understand the inner workings of the new iPhone models.

MacRumors

Apple Fitness+ Layoffs Reported Ahead of Potential 'Major' Changes

Apple laid off a small number of Apple Fitness+ employees, reportedly as a precursor to potential significant changes to the service. The layoffs are seen as a cost-cutting measure within the organization. The exact nature of the changes is unclear.

Why it matters: The layoffs and potential changes may impact the future of Apple Fitness+ and its features.