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Apple

iPhone, Mac, software and everything from Cupertino.

A Shorter Apple Pencil Was Supposed to Launch Alongside iPhone Duo

Apple was developing a shorter Apple Pencil for the iPhone Duo, but canceled it due to technical issues. The existing USB-C Apple Pencil will be supported on the iPhone Duo later this year. The shorter Apple Pencil was intended to be released alongside the iPhone Duo.

Why it matters: This change may impact users who were expecting a new, more compact Apple Pencil option.

Siri AI Settlement Website Now Live: Apple to Pay Some iPhone Owners

Apple has launched a website for a settlement related to a class action lawsuit over Siri AI's delayed launch. Eligible iPhone owners can submit a claim to receive a payment of up to $95. The settlement is a result of Apple agreeing to pay $250 million to settle the lawsuit.

Why it matters: Eligible iPhone owners may be able to receive a payment as a result of the settlement.

Apple TV to Finally Air ‘The Savant’ in Early 2027, Supposedly

Apple TV has rescheduled the release of the thriller series 'The Savant' to early 2027, a year after it was initially postponed due to its storyline and imagery. The series, starring Jessica Chastain, was initially set to premiere on September 26, 2025. The new release date will make the series eligible for the 2027 Emmys.

Why it matters: The rescheduling of 'The Savant' is significant for fans of the series and the cast, including Jessica Chastain, who will now have a chance to receive awards recognition for their work.

Yours Truly on CNBC’s ‘Squawk on the Street’ Friday

John Gruber appeared on CNBC's 'Squawk on the Street' and was introduced as the author of a 5,000-word review of the iPhone 18 Pro, prompting a laugh from host Sara Eisen.

Why it matters: The appearance highlights Gruber's influence in the tech industry and his ability to generate significant attention for his reviews.

Delayed Apple TV series ‘The Savant’ may finally air next year

Apple TV series 'The Savant' was initially delayed due to the assassination of Charlie Kirk, and its release date was not updated on the Apple TV app. The series is now reportedly scheduled to air in spring 2027. The release date is likely to be before May 31, 2027, to be eligible for the next Emmy awards season.

Why it matters: The update provides a new timeline for viewers who have been waiting for the series to premiere.

Review: Satechi’s Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock pairs perfectly with the new M6 Mac mini

Satechi's Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock is a Thunderbolt 5 dock designed for the new M6 Mac mini, offering 8 additional ports, an M.2 NVMe SSD bay, and up to 140W of host charging. It supports up to 120Gbps of throughput and can run up to three 6K@60Hz or four 4K@144Hz displays. The dock also features two 10Gbps USB-C ports, two 10Gbps USB-A ports, a 2.5G Ethernet port, and an SD card reader.

Why it matters: This dock is a good option for those who want to take advantage of the Thunderbolt 5 capabilities of their Mac mini and M5 Pro models.

iFixit tears down iPhone 18 Pro, explores variable aperture, finds concerning repair issue

iFixit has published a teardown of the iPhone 18 Pro, exploring its variable aperture mechanism, under-display Face ID camera, and vapor chamber. The teardown reveals a potential issue with the plastic frame around the display, which may be damaged during repairs. The device's design makes some components difficult to reach, including the USB-C port.

Why it matters: The iPhone 18 Pro's repairability may be compromised by the potential issue with the plastic frame and the difficulty in accessing certain components.

Sunday Reboot: A power station and store hopes

Apple's London store at Battersea Power Station features a mostly-glass frontage, a large Apple logo, and a wood-clad interior with a Genius Bar and an alcove for Apple Vision Pro sessions. The store is part of a larger retail emporium in the iconic London location. The store's design is a departure from the typical mall-style outlets, with a warmer approach.

Why it matters: The design of the Apple Battersea store may signal a shift towards a new retail experience for Apple, with a focus on warmer and more inviting spaces.

Five ways that the new Siri AI is frustrating iPhone and Apple Watch users

The new Siri AI is experiencing issues with network communication, search indexing, and performance, causing frustration for iPhone and Apple Watch users. Some users are seeing 'Sorry, something went wrong' errors, while others are experiencing slow response times and inability to access certain features. The issues are affecting users who have updated to iOS 27 and are using the new Siri AI.

Why it matters: These issues may impact users' daily interactions with their devices and the reliability of the Siri AI assistant.

WorkOS: How SSO Works and the Fastest Way to Add It

The article explains how Single Sign-On (SSO) works and its benefits for developers, including increased user engagement and easier enterprise adoption. SSO allows users to authenticate through a third-party service, reducing the need for managing usernames and passwords. The article discusses the different protocols used for SSO, including SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect, and provides an overview of the SSO flow and its components.

Why it matters: Understanding SSO and its implementation can help developers create a smoother user experience and increase their app's appeal to enterprise customers.

GM Revives CarPlay for 2027 Trucks

General Motors has introduced a new infotainment system for its 2027 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups, which combines smartphone apps with vehicle controls on the same screen. The system, developed jointly with Apple and Google, allows drivers to view navigation or media apps while simultaneously viewing vehicle functions. The new interface marks a reversal of GM's previous decision to remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from its vehicles.

Why it matters: This change may indicate a shift in GM's strategy for its electric vehicles, potentially restoring CarPlay and Android Auto to future models.

Foldable futures: iPhone Duo is Apple's bet for smartphone growth

Apple has launched the iPhone Duo, a foldable smartphone that may make up close to half of the foldables market by 2027, with analysts forecasting 10 million units sold in the first 12 months. The iPhone Duo is expected to rake in $27 billion for Apple in its first year, reflecting 6% of the company's total expected revenue for fiscal 2026. The device is seen as a way to reinvigorate iPhone sales and drive high-end customers to upgrade more frequently.

Why it matters: The iPhone Duo's success could help Apple lift its stagnant iPhone sales and revenue growth.

Marques Brownlee’s iPhone 18 Pro Review

Marques Brownlee reviewed the iPhone 18 Pro, noting it is similar to previous 'S' year iPhones, with the regular model having longer battery life than the iPhone 17 Pro Max according to Apple's specs. Brownlee also questioned why Apple doesn't publish battery and RAM capacities. Apple only publishes specs it considers useful for comparison.

Why it matters: This highlights Apple's approach to transparency in iPhone specifications.

Claimed Apple Fitness+ layoffs are no sign of problems with the service

A report claims Apple is cutting jobs at Apple Fitness+, but the layoffs are not substantial and may be due to the service's low overhead costs. The report suggests that Apple Fitness+ is in trouble, but this is not supported by evidence. The article argues that the job cuts are not a sign of the service's demise.

Why it matters: The article provides context on the potential reasons behind Apple's job cuts at Apple Fitness+ and debunks the claim that the service is in trouble.

Apple Home Hub will be the intelligent center of your home

Apple is reportedly developing a smart home device called Home Hub, which will serve as the central hub for a person's digital connected life, including device controls, video calls, and media. The device, referred to as J490, will use an operating system focused on Siri AI and will have a square-ish display that can be mounted on a desk or wall. The Home Hub will use facial recognition to identify users and personalize the information it displays.

Why it matters: The Home Hub could potentially become a central part of Apple's strategy to integrate its devices and services in the home.

Here’s why Apple scrapped its shorter Apple Pencil designed for iPhone Duo: report

Apple initially designed a smaller Apple Pencil for iPhone Duo, but scrapped it due to technical problems before mass production. The company instead opted for the traditional USB-C Apple Pencil. Apple is now working to make the iPad Pencils compatible with iPhone Duo, with support expected to be available by the end of 2026.

Why it matters: This development affects iPhone Duo users who were expecting Apple Pencil support at launch, and may impact the availability of the accessory for the device.

Crime blotter: Best Buy lines and Porsche tracking

A man had his iPhone 17 Plus stolen while waiting in line for a Pokemon card release at a West Hollywood Best Buy, but was able to track and recover the device. A man in Nevada is being sought by police for allegedly stealing an iPhone from a casino customer. A 43-year-old man in Florida was arrested for stealing 30 iPads from a business that had fired him earlier that day.

Why it matters: These incidents highlight the importance of tracking and securing personal devices, as well as the consequences of theft and identity scams.

iOS 27 makes your iPhone faster in these 30+ ways

iOS 27 is now available, bringing over 30 improvements to make iPhones faster and more reliable. Apple has tested these improvements on iPhone 11 models, with results showing apps launching up to 30% faster. The update is compatible with iPhone models dating back to the iPhone 11.

Why it matters: This update is significant for iPhone users, particularly those with older models, as it brings substantial performance improvements.

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 missing one health-focused feature

The Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 do not have the handwashing timer feature, which was previously available on Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3. The feature is still present in watchOS 27 and Apple Health, but is not listed as supported hardware. It is unclear if the omission is intentional or a hardware difference.

Why it matters: This may be a significant change for users who relied on the handwashing timer feature for health and hygiene tracking.

Apple is taking a little bit of a gamble with iPhone Duo software: Will it pay off?

Apple's iPhone Duo requires developers to recompile apps for iOS 27.0 to use the larger inner display, and iOS 27.1 for the unique tab bar and UI components. This may cause some apps to be stuck in black bars. Developers will also have to rebuild to support the iPhone Duo's interface elements.

Why it matters: This may lead to a delay in iPhone Duo updates for some apps, potentially affecting user experience, especially for mobile gaming.

Indie App Spotlight: ‘GasPulse’ lets you keep an eye on gas price trends around you

GasPulse is an indie app for iPhone that shows gas price trends, historical prices, and future outlook using data from the Energy Information Administration. The app offers state-by-state comparisons, price alerts, and widgets for the home screen and lock screen. It is available for free on the App Store for iOS 18 and later, with no subscription or ads required.

Why it matters: This app can help users make informed decisions about their gas purchases by providing a clear view of current and future gas prices.

M6 Pro Chip Result on Geekbench is Likely Fake

A supposed Geekbench result for an unreleased M6 Pro chip has been questioned for its legitimacy, with the creator of Geekbench citing internal inconsistencies. The result was shared publicly despite Apple reportedly planning to skip the M6 Pro and M6 Max chips. The authenticity of the result is uncertain.

Why it matters: This development may impact the accuracy of tech rumors and speculation surrounding Apple's upcoming chip releases.

Tyler Stalman’s iPhone 18 Pro Camera Review

Tyler Stalman reviewed the iPhone 18 Pro camera, comparing its output to a film SLR using Kodak Portra 400 film. He praised the video quality. The review included side-by-side comparisons of photos taken with the iPhone and the film SLR.

Why it matters: The review provides insight into the camera capabilities of the iPhone 18 Pro and its new Photographic Styles feature.

Amazon cuts Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 prices upon release

Amazon is offering discounts on the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4, with prices reduced by up to $20. The discounts apply to various case options and band colors. The sales are available on Amazon this weekend.

Why it matters: The discounts provide an opportunity for customers to purchase the new Apple Watch models at a lower price.

Austin Mann’s iPhone 18 Pro Camera Review, From Dunton, Colorado

Austin Mann tested the iPhone 18 Pro camera in Dunton, Colorado, evaluating its features, including the variable aperture, manual focus, and Photographic Styles 3. He shot various scenes, including landscapes and night skies, and shared his impressions on the camera's performance. Mann also compared the camera's aperture settings and demonstrated the use of manual focus and exposure control. The iPhone 18 Pro's camera features a wider f/1.48 aperture, manual focus, and 4K time-lapse capabilities.

Why it matters: The iPhone 18 Pro's camera features may appeal to photographers who value manual control and creative flexibility.

M6 Pro benchmark surfaces despite claims of a short chip generation

A benchmark result for the M6 Pro has been posted on Geekbench, showing a score of 4,150 in single-core and 37,565 in multi-core. The result suggests the M6 Pro has 18 cores, split into two clusters of six and 12 cores. The M6 Pro's performance is reportedly better than the M6 Mac mini but similar to the M5 Pro.

Why it matters: The benchmark result may indicate that the M6 generation will be longer than previously expected, potentially contradicting rumors of a shortened lifespan.

Apple Watch Ultra 4 Sees First Discount After Launch, Now $779.99 on Amazon

Amazon is offering discounts on the Apple Watch Ultra 4, with prices starting at $779.99 for select models. The discounts are available for the first time since the device's launch. The prices are the lowest tracked so far for the brand new Apple Watch Ultra 4.

Why it matters: The discounts provide an opportunity for early adopters to save money on the latest Apple Watch model.

Apple Watch Series 12 might finally convince me to switch away from WHOOP

The author, a long-time Apple Watch user, tried a WHOOP and is now considering switching back to the Apple Watch Series 12 due to its improved health tracking features. The Apple Watch Series 12 collects heart rate data every 5 seconds, and the new Apple Health app offers a cleaner interface. The Readiness app provides a 1-to-10 health score based on HRV and other factors.

Why it matters: This update may be a significant improvement for Apple Watch users who want more detailed health tracking without needing a separate device like the WHOOP.

Our top iPhone 18 Pro accessories to upgrade your setup [Updated]

The article discusses various iPhone 18 Pro accessories, including chargers, cases, wallets, and MagSafe mounts, that can enhance the user experience. Apple's AirTag 2 and AirPods Pro 3 are also mentioned as top accessories. The article highlights specific products, such as a compact charging block, a TechWoven case, and a 3-in-1 wireless charger. It also mentions a MagSafe car mount, a MagSafe battery pack, and a travel adapter. The article has been updated to include new releases and deals.

Why it matters: This article provides recommendations for iPhone 18 Pro accessories that can improve functionality and convenience.

Top Stories: iOS 27 and macOS Golden Gate Out Now, Siri AI Waitlist, and More

Apple has released iOS 27 and macOS Golden Gate, which bring new features and improvements to users. iOS 27 introduces Siri AI capabilities and other new features, while macOS Golden Gate includes Siri AI, Visual Intelligence, and design updates. The updates are available for download now.

Why it matters: These updates provide users with new features and improvements to their Apple devices, enhancing their overall user experience.