This compact new mechanical keyboard sports customizable screen

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Epomaker TH80 Pro V2 VIA mechanical keyboard
You don't see a screen on a keyboard every day.
Photo: Epomaker

A new 75% compact mechanical gaming keyboard with a retro look includes a decidedly modern and unusual feature — a customizable LCD screen. The Epomaker TH80 Pro V2 VIA is “designed for an extreme gaming and typing experience,” the company said Thursday.

The cool new keeb is an update on Epomaker’s popular TH80 Pro keyboard.

Today in Apple history: It’s the beginning of the end for Mac OS Copland

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Remember Mac OS Copland? Probably not from using it.
Copland never saw the light of day.
Photo: Ste Smith/Cult of Mac

April 26: Today in Apple history: Mac OS Copland suffers fatal blow when David C. Nagel leaves Apple April 26, 1996: Mac OS Copland, Apple’s eagerly anticipated but much-delayed operating system for the Macintosh, suffers a fatal blow when the senior VP in charge of the project leaves the company.

David C. Nagel, Apple’s chief technologist, previously promised Mac OS Copland would ship to users by mid-1996 at the latest. With meeting that deadline no longer possible, he leaves Apple for a job running AT&T Laboratories.

It’s yet another sign that Apple’s top-to-bottom Mac operating system upgrade is in major trouble.

Handsome desk shelf brings calm to chaos [Setups]

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Fenge monitor stand setup
The white Fenge monitor stand, or desk shelf, is one of the coolest choices we've seen lately.
Photo: tombaconart@Reddit.com

Monitor stands, aka monitor risers or desk shelves, are often unsung heroes of computer setups. Even just a single shelf can add so much in terms of organization and ergonomics. In today’s colorful and artistic Mac mini workstation, the Fenge monitor riser is crucial. Without it, the desktop would devolve into chaos. 

How to download and convert YouTube videos to MP4

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4K Video Downloader+
Finally, there's an easy way to convert videos and audio from all the popular platforms.
Image: Open Media

The easiest way to convert a YouTube video to an MP4 for free is with an app called 4K Video Downloader for Mac and PC. This tool gives you all kinds of options for converting video and audio from YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Soundcloud, Twitch and more.

If you want to save videos or podcasts to your computer to include in a video of your own, this app is the easiest way to download the highest-quality original.

It has other uses, too. If you’re going on a flight, or if you simply have a slow internet connection, you can use it to download what you want to watch in advance. If you’re privacy-conscious but you still want to watch a TikTok sent to you by a friend, you can download the clip without visiting the website.

Here’s how it works.

These rechargeable batteries can save you hundreds

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These $16 USB-rechargeable batteries stop 2,000 from entering landfills.
Save $34 on these eco-friendly rechargeable batteries.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If Earth Day got you thinking about ways to reduce your carbon footprint, check out these rechargeable batteries. They can prevent up to 2,000 disposable batteries from entering landfills — and save you hundreds of dollars in the process.

Plus, these batteries come with a twist. Unlike other rechargeables, you don’t need a clunky charging station. They recharge with an included four-way micro-USB cable you plug directly into them!

Get a four-pack of rechargeable AA batteries for $15.99 (regularly $49.95). (AAA batteries are also available.)

How to check iPad battery health

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iPad Battery Health How To
Knowing your iPad battery health helps you decide when it's time for a new tablet.
Image: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Checking the health and maximum capacity of the battery in your beloved iPad isn’t as easy as it should be, but we can walk you through the process.

Finding out how worn out the tablet’s battery is can help you decide if it’s time for a new model.

Hollywood Con Queen trailer lays out scammer’s lusts

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Hollywood Con Queen trailer
The documentary's trailer does, indeed, make it look like a shocking scam.
Photo: Apple TV+

A juicy and lurid new documentary crime series is coming to Apple TV+ soon with Hollywood Con Queen, judging by the fast-paced trailer the streamer dropped for it Thursday. It “explores the shocking story behind one of Hollywood’s biggest scams.”

The three-part docuseries premieres May 8 on Apple TV+.

Today in Apple history: Pixar gets out of the computer game

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The pricey Pixar Image Computers, including the Pixar P-II, powered the company's early animated works.
The powerful Pixar Image Computer II simply cost too much to thrive.
Photo: Wikipedia CC

April 25: Today in Apple history: Pixar stops selling computers April 25, 1990: Steve Jobs shuts down Pixar’s hardware division (yes, it used to have one!), ending production of the pricey Pixar Image Computer immediately.

Jobs sells the company’s hardware unit to Fremont, California-based imaging company Vicom Systems for a paltry $2 million.

TSMC cutting-edge 2nm chip production might come too late for 2025 iPhone

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TSMC looks ahead to super-speedy 2nm processors
2nm processors made by TSMC will be faster while using less power than today's 3nm iPhone and Mac chips. But there's bad news.
Image: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Although Apple’s chip-maker TSMC will start making processors with a 2nm process in 2025, production could begin too late for next year’s iPhone.

Still, TSMC says 1.6nm chips will go into production in 2026.

Manage iPhone and iPad from Mac with revamped iMazing 3

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iMazing 3 app redesign
This is a major overhaul of the app, which lets you manage functions and content on iPhone and iPad.
Photo: DigiDNA

The new iMazing 3 app redesign brings a fresh user interface and Vision Pro connectivity support to the software, developer DigiDNA said Wednesday. The widely used software helps you manage iPhone, iPad and iPod content and functionality from a Mac.

“In the eight year since we released iMazing 2, regular updates have improved functionality and expanded device and OS support,” said DigiDNA CEO Jerome Bedat.

“To achieve our vision for iMazing 3, we had to redevelop our approach, with a modern user interface and new codebase that will allow us to deliver features in the future that no one else can offer,” he added.

Go back in time with a modern Atari console and 200+ games for just $70

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The My Arcade Atari Game Station Pro, a modern Atari console that comes with vintage arcade games
Experience retro gaming with $30 savings on this modern Atari console with tons of classic games.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

You don’t need to dust off your old Atari (if you even still owne it) or travel back in time to play your old favorite arcade games. This retro-inspired Atari console from My Arcade comes with officially licensed titles like Pong, Asteroids and more than 200 others.

And, dare we say, it’s also a bit cooler than the original.

Plus, it’s on sale. While the My Arcade Atari Game Station Pro regularly sells for $99.99, you can get a new, open-box model for only $69.99.

What new features to expect in Apple Pencil 3 [Updated]

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What new features to expect in Apple Pencil 3
It's not challenging to guess that Apple Pencil 3 is on the agenda for the May 7 Apple event.
Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac

Apple Pencil 3 is apparently right around the corner, and leaks indicate the next iPad stylus will offer several features not in the previous one. That includes a new “squeeze” gesture, haptic feedback and Find My support.

Plus, it might also work as a Vision Pro stylus.

WhatsApp for iPhone gains passkey support

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WhatsApp logo
Passkey support finally comes to WhatsApp for iPhone.
Image: WhatsApp

WhatsApp is making it easier to log into your account on your iPhone with passkey support. The feature will allow you to verify your identity through Face ID, Touch ID, or device PIN.

Once you have set up a passkey for your WhatsApp account, you can set up the app on a new iPhone through biometric authentication, skipping the SMS code entirely.

New iPhone activations hit a six-year low in the US

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iPhone 15. New iPhones will get Presto iOS updates.
iPhone sales tanked in the US, but that doesn't mean buyers are switching to Android.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Apple saw iPhone activations decline to 33% of new smartphone activations in the US in Q1 2024, the lowest number in the country since 2017, according to a market-research firm. In the year-ago quarter, iPhones accounted for 40% of new smartphone activations in the US. In just 12 months, the company has seen its share fall by 7%.

The decline doesn’t necessarily stem from a lack of interest in Apple’s products — iPhone’s share of the installed smartphone base has actually increased. Partly it’s because iOS handsets last so long.

Lock in lifetime access to Babbel language learning for just $149.97

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This is your last chance to grab a lifetime of award-winning language learning with this Babbel language app deal.
Grab lifetime access to the world’s most popular language learning app for less than $140 for a limited time.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Whether you want to get the most out of your travels, spruce up your resume or simply expand your skills, learning a new language is an excellent way to level up. One of the easiest methods for doing that — and for fitting learning seamlessly into your schedule — is with a convenient language app such as Babbel. And you can get it for less with this limited-time Babbel language app deal.

Until April 30, you can secure lifetime access to Babbel for just $149.07 (regularly $599) from Cult of Mac Deals. If you want to master multiple languages for one low price, you’d better hurry!

Apple Watch Series 9 hits official Apple refurbs store at satisfying discounts

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Apple Watch Series 9 refurbished
A refurbished Apple Watch Series 9 is as good as new but costs much less.
Image: Cult of Mac

Savvy shoppers can now buy Apple Watch Series 9 from Apple’s Certified Refurbished store. It’s a no-risk way to pick up the wearable at up to $110 below the usual price.

These are primarily devices that consumers bought then returned so supplies and selection are somewhat limited.

Get luxe for less: 62% off Bang & Olufsen-inspired MagSafe charger

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The 5,000mAh power bank can be used in the stand or separately.
The 5,000mAh power bank can be used in the stand or separately.
Photo: SwitchEasy

How many times have you rushed out the door with a battery pack for your iPhone, only to discover the battery is dead as a doornail? SwitchEasy’s 2-in-1 Portal solves that. This stylish charging stand includes a portable power pack that is always charged and ready to go.

And we have a massive discount only for Cult of Mac readers. The Portal regularly costs $119.99, but for one week only, we are dropping the price to $44.99. That’s more than 60% off, and an offer not found anywhere else. Heck, it’s a good deal for just the 5,000mAh rechargeable MagSafe battery.

With its Bang & Olufsen-inspired styling, Portal is great for your desktop or nightstand. And it ensures you always have portable power ready to go.

Bag bargains on iMacs and Apple accessories while they last

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sale on iMacs and Apple accessories
A couple of 2021 iMacs are in the mix of sale items.
Photo: Apple

Two concurrent Apple sales at Amazon bargain site Woot! run for the next week or so — one on iMacs and Accessories and one for a selection of Apple Accessories. It’s a good chance to stock up on big and small stuff alike.

“An Apple a Day… is really expensive!” the site quips. Both sales run through May 1 at 10 p.m. PT.

Say goodbye to hopes for mini-LED iPad Air [Updated]

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12.9-inch iPad Air with mini-LED display won't happen
The upcoming 12.9-inch iPad Air will use a standard screen, not a mini-LED one.
Nope: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The analyst who predicted last week that the first 12.9-inch iPad Air would include a mini-LED display has now walked it back.

The upcoming super-size version of the tablet will instead apparently use a standard type of screen.

Black Panthers tap Hollywood to fake out FBI in The Big Cigar trailer

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The Big Cigar trailer
Under cover of a fake Hollywood movie production, Black Panther leader Huey P. Newton evaded the FBI and fled to Cuba. Really!
Photo: Apple TV+

The first trailer for Apple TV+’s The Big Cigar looks like so much fun I almost don’t want to know how true the “incredible true story” about Black Panther leader Huey P. Newton actually is.

The upcoming drama series tells the tale of Newton enlisting a Hollywood producer to fake out the FBI, providing cover for the political activist’s escape to Cuba in 1974. That came after Newton jumped bail on murder and assault charges he called false.

Artist loves his iPad Pro stand for good reason [Setups]

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Lab22 Infinity Adjust iPad stand
This M1 Mac mini setup features a lot to look at, but don't miss that cool iPad Pro stand on the right.
Photo: tombaconart@Reddit.com

Sometimes what stands out in a computer setup isn’t a major piece, like a computer or display, but a cool accessory. Today’s colorful M1 Mac mini workstation with dual displays and loads of artwork features a cool accessory one could easily miss — a Lab22 Infinity Adjust iPad stand.

10 best undetectable AI tools for bypassing AI detection with ease

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Close-up of a MacBook laptop on a person's lap.
Not all AI writing tools are equal.
Photo: Sergey Zolkin/Unsplash License

Getting past AI detectors isn’t easy. They’ve been trained and designed to spot the signs of AI content, making it harder than ever for users to avoid AI-related penalties. Fortunately, an undetectable AI writer can help.

As the name implies, an undetectable AI writing tool is designed to make AI content undetectable by AI detection tools. That means you can use these writers to transform AI-made text and bypass AI detection consistently.

 

But which undetectable AI tool to use? This guide is here to help you with that. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of 10 leading AI-to-human text converters that’ll help you get a perfect human score on AI detectors like Originality and GPTZero.

Small businesses get special Today at Apple sessions

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Made for Business Today at Apple sessions
The new sessions feature business owners teaching other business owners how to make the most of Apple products and services.
Photo: Apple

A special Today at Apple series by and for small-business owners is coming in May to select Apple Stores, the iPhone giant said Wednesday. New “Made for Business” sessions will offer small business owners and entrepreneurs free opportunities to learn how Apple products and services can support them.

“At Apple, we know small businesses are the backbone of local communities, which is why we are constantly innovating to help at every stage of their growth,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail.

“Our retail stores provide only-at-Apple experiences such as community and education sessions, free Today at Apple programming, and ongoing support from in-store experts who help small businesses find the perfect technology to supercharge their work,” she added.

Today in Apple history: It’s time for Apple Watch

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Apple Watch
The Apple Watch is the first major new product launch of the post-Steve Jobs era.
Photo: Jim Merithew/Cult of Mac

April 24: Today in Apple history: Original Apple Watch launch date April 24, 2015: The original Apple Watch launch means consumers, who endured a seven-month wait after the device’s unveiling at a keynote the previous September, can finally strap an Apple wearable onto their wrists.

Apple CEO Tim Cook describes the smartwatch as the “next chapter in Apple history.”  Behind the scenes, however, the first Apple Watch launch is a moment long in the making.