Massachusetts-based David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV+ shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
Govee's popular smart-lighting products now include an LED strip that works with the new Matter standard and, therefore, with HomeKit. Photo: Govee
With the release of Govee’s first Matter-compatible smart light — the LED Strip Light M1 — users can connect lighting across smart home automation platforms like HomeKit and others, the company said Monday.
The device sports three power outlets, USB-C and USB-A ports, and a retractable USB-C cable. Photo: Baseus
On Monday Baseus released its new PowerCombo 6-in-1 Charging Station, a desktop power-strip tower featuring a retractable USB-C cable.
In addition to the cable, the device includes three electrical outlets for computers, monitors and other electronics, plus a 65-watt USB-C port and a 60W USB-A port for charging devices like iPads, iPhones and AirPods.
Apple struck a multibillion-dollar deal with Broadcom for 5G components made in the US. Photo: Brad Gibson/Cult of Mac
Apple said Tuesday it struck a “new multiyear, multibillion-dollar agreement” with technology manufacturer Broadcom to develop 5G radio frequency components in the United States.
“We’re thrilled to make commitments that harness the ingenuity, creativity and innovative spirit of American manufacturing,” said Apple CEO Tim Cook.
“All of Apple’s products depend on technology engineered and built here in the United States, and we’ll continue to deepen our investments in the U.S. economy because we have an unshakable belief in America’s future,” he added.
Mophie's new wireless charging vent mount with MagSafe works with iPhone 12 series handsets or newer. Photo: Mophie
If you want to use your iPhone while you drive, it’s best to go hands-free with a mount. Zagg subsidiary Mophie rolled out two choices Monday, a MagSafe-compatible magnetic vent mount and a MagSafe-certified wireless charging vent mount.
“The magnetic and wireless charging vent mounts from mophie are each designed to enhance the driving experience,” said Brad Bell, senior vice president of global marketing at ZAGG. “No matter the use case, mophie helps connected drivers keep their iPhone secure and in line-of-sight.”
This setup is all Apple, all the time (not counting stuff Apple doesn't make). Photo: [email protected]
Many computer setups go heavy on the Apple hardware, but not many of them could be mistaken for Apple advertisements. Some, though, like today’s Mac Studio workstation, manage to hit that mark — or close enough.
If the app developer who uses it fancied things up a bit more, the rig might seem too staged and on-the-nose-Apple to feature.
The new trade-in program can help you save on an upgrade while minimizing your environmental impact. Photo: Bluetti
Portable power stations brand Bluetti just launched a trade-in program. It’s meant to encourage customers to upgrade their gear, while reducing their impact on the environment.
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The Bluetti Trade In campaign’s tagline, “Upgrade with Ease, Save the Planet with Us,” underscores the company’s dedication to promoting sustainable living and reducing electronic waste.
Bring your Steam Deck gaming to a big screen and use other peripherals with it, too. Photo: Ugreen
Ugreen unveiled its new 6-in-1 USB Steam Deck Dock Thursday, saying it provides gamers with a range of high-speed connectivity, 4K@60Hz output and fast charging.
Elago's Liquid Hybrid Case offers stylish protection for AirPods Pro 2. Photo: Elago
If you invested in Apple’s fantastic AirPods Pro (2nd generation) earbuds, shouldn’t you consider protecting that investment with an exceptional carrying case?
Elago’s Liquid Hybrid Case, available with a handy nylon lanyard, is now available in the Cult of Mac Store at a great price.
Edifier's new cans pack technology for clear music and voice calls. Photo: Edifier
Edifier unveiled a new version of its bestselling wireless over-ear headphones Friday. The active-noise-canceling (ANC) W820NB Plus — the Plus is added to the older set’s name — bring support for the high-definition LDAC Bluetooth codec as well as Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification.
And you know what else sounds good? The price — $79.99.
Gabriel's computer setup looks relatively tidy, but it packs a large array of gear. Photo: Gabriel B.
Gabriel B., a 13-year-old student and photographer in Baton Rouge, La., sent pics and commentary showcasing and describing his well-equipped MacBook Air-and-dual-display setup to Cult of Mac this week.
He noted his Intel MacBook powers an “army of peripherals,” but it’s not quite up to the work he asks of it. And how has he already filled 3TB of digital storage space, anyway? Well, that’s what heavy photo and video editing will do.
Get ready for loads more Peanuts, Charlie Brown -- coming soon to Apple TV+. Image: Apple TV+
If you love Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang, the kids-and-family slate Apple TV+ plans for this summer should be right up your alley (or in your dog house).
Apple TV+ said Friday you can expect two new Peanuts specials, the new series Camp Snoopy and, outside of Linus and Lucy’s world, new seasons of Duck & Goose, Eva the Owlet and the award-winning Lovely Little Farm.
The new multiview feature on Apple TV 4K can show up to four simultaneous streams on MLS Season Pass or Friday Night Baseball. Image: Apple
Apple rolled out its new multiview feature on Apple TV 4K Thursday. It lets sports fans watch four streams at once, mixing and matching programming in a choice of layouts.
And that programming can include not just Major League Soccer matches and Friday Night Baseball games, but also selected MLS and MLB live shows with commentators.
The sturdy case and fine leather band will protect Apple Watch and look good doing it. Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
Of all the many types of Apple Watch bands, there is one timeless classic: leather. It sports a rugged yet refined look. It’s durable. And it gains character with age.
Speidel makes it even better by including a stylish and protective case for your Apple Watch and a soft silicone interior to boost the band’s comfort and breathability. And you can get a great deal on it in the Cult of Mac store.
Bad Bunny joins Pepsi with offer to win free Apple Music subscriptions and much more. Photo: Pepsi
Pepsi teamed up Wednesday with Apple Music and its 2022 Artist of the Year, Bad Bunny, to launch a summer ad campaign and giveaway.
Customers who buy Pepsi products in stores — Mountain Dew Major Melon, anyone? — may uncap a free Apple Music subscription or other prize, like Beats headphones. Or you can sign up to win without a purchase.
“Summer is the season of the year that we all get excited about, the one that brings the heat, when we seek the beach, friends, good music and just have a good time,” said Bad Bunny. “I’m happy to partner with Pepsi and Apple Music to bring fans more of what we love and unites us: MUSIC, through ‘Press Play On Summer’ offer.”
Transparent plastic is a new look for Beats. Photo: Amazon/Beats
The new Beats Studio Buds+ went on sale Wednesday as numerous initial reviews praised their good looks and tech upgrades.
Nearly every reviewer loved the ’90s-nostalgic, iMacs-of-yore transparent case option. And the new custom chipset for audio quality, new microphones for better active noise cancellation (ANC) and voice calls, and longer battery life aren’t bad, either. If you’re looking for the newest Beats, these upgrades make them a solid choice.
But some features are still missing on the $169.99 buds, up $20 from the original Beats Studio Buds when they came out — but $80 less than AirPods Pro (2nd generation) for thrifty shoppers.
It's not just supple Italian leather, it's two eye-catching colors. Photo: Olpr. leather goods co.
When it comes to watch bands — those made for Apple Watch or otherwise — it doesn’t get more classic than leather. And if it’s supple Italian leather from Tuscany, all the better. And if it costs less than $50, well, that’s pretty much the best.
Right now you can get slender Italian bands for Apple Watch for just $49 in the Cult of Mac Store.
To get a better idea of the screen angles, see the image below. Photo: [email protected]
If you’re considering going with two external displays in your computer setup, you might find some inspiration in today’s featured MacBook Pro workstation with two slick gaming displays.
The laptop drives two stacked, ultra-wide, curved displays that are mounted — and even carefully angled — for the best ergonomics, resulting no eye or neck strain.
Skullcandy unveiled its latest over-ear headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) Tuesday — the updated Crusher ANC 2 Sensory Bass Headphones.
And the company’s serious enough about the low end to include a dedicated wheel on the left ear cup so you can crank the bass. That’s in addition to other customization options as well as an impressive feature set for cans that cost $229.99.
This wireless car charger with auto-clamp makes it easy to handle your iPhone while you drive. Photo: Elago
Everybody knows it’s dangerous to use your iPhone while driving. In order to do so safely and hands-free, you need a car mount. And what could be better than a wireless charger mount that senses and grabs onto your phone for you? No need to take your eyes off the road to carefully place it just so.
Love live music? Apple Maps and Apple Music now offer new ways to find concerts. Photo: Apple
Good news for live-music lovers rang out Tuesday. Apple said new concert-discovery features it just added to Apple Maps and Apple Music will help music fans and artists connect in major cultural hubs worldwide.
Mifa's Sparkle Band is the picture of elegance. Or, mom might like a classic leather band or a tactical strap. Photo: Mifa
You’re not the first person to show up late to the party for Mother’s Day, forgetting to fork over a gift on her special day. So, a day later, it’s a good thing you can still choose from a huge selection of great Apple accessories on sale.
You can pick up a variety of items for 15% to 25% off in the Cult of Mac Store’s Mother’s Day Sweet Savings Collection through Monday. See a selection of highlights below.
Bluetti's AC60 power station and B80 extension battery make a powerful combo that can handle the great outdoors.
Photo: Bluetti
Bluetti’s latest portable power station, the AC60, is the company’s most compact and durable yet. The lightweight power station, which launches today alongside the B80 expansion battery, comes with an IP65 rating, so it’s ready for your next outdoor adventure.
Plus, if you pair it with Bluetti’s new B80 — and maybe a solar panel or two — you don’t need to run out of juice.
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The solar generator and expansion battery combo promises faster charging, longer battery life and safer operation than other small power stations on the market. “The AC60 surpasses all expectations for traditional mini power stations,” Bluetti said, noting that both the AC60 and B80 come with an industry-leading six-year warranty.
The programmer likes his Logitech Mini mechanical keyboard. Photo: [email protected]
Before reading past the jump, take a look at today’s featured M1 Mac mini computer setup in the photograph above and see if you can quickly identify the two items that aren’t from peripherals giant Logitech — other than the main computer, display and furniture.
Both items are on the small side, so it might take a hard look to spot them. Answers below in the post and at the bottom just above the gear list.