Ed Hardy has been writing full-time about tech for 25 years, and using it for much longer than that. His intro to Apple was a Macintosh SE/30 (which he still has), but now he uses a 13-inch iPad Pro as his primary computer.
That's because he's a "tablet first" type of guy. Rather than use a Macbook, he connects a keyboard case to the iPad. And instead of a desktop Mac, he connects his tablet to a 27-inch display and full-size keyboard. (So don't try to tell him that everyone has to use a Mac to be productive.)
Before coming to Cult of Mac, Ed wrote for NotebookReview, TabletPCReview and Brighthand, as well as other sites.
This lanyard can also charge your iPhone. Photo: Satechi
The Satechi OntheGo USB-C Lanyard Cable makes carrying around an iPhone easy, and charging it, too. That’s because it’s both a lanyard and a USB-C charging cable in one accessory.
In addition, the accessory maker also just launched the Satechi OntheGo 67W Slim Wall Charger to power up an iPhone or MacBook when and where needed.
Apple is working hard to prevent the folding iPhone from being marred by a screen crease. Photo: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac
Part of the innovative technology going into the upcoming folding iPhone is supposedly an internal hinge that will play an important role in ensuring that the flexible display won’t be marred by an unsightly crease.
An analyst who’s a respected source of Apple information reported Tuesday that the component will begin shipping to Apple at the beginning of 2026.
MP Materials makes rare earth magnets in Fort Worth, Texas. Photo: MP Materials
Apple announced a new commitment Tuesday to buy $500 million worth of American-made rare earth magnets from Texas-based MP Materials. The raw material will go into iPhones, MacBooks and more.
In addition, the two companies are working together to build a cutting-edge rare earth recycling line in California.
Now is the time to save on that portable SSD you’ve wanted. Image: Samsung/Cult of Mac
The portable SSD you’ve been wanting is probably available at well below the usual cost. There are top-quality ones available at way below their list prices — we found deals on portable SSDs from Samsung, Kingston and more. Save up to 48%!
Even if you didn’t do your shopping during Amazon Prime Day last week, you can still easily increase the storage capacity of your Mac, iPad, etc. without over-stressing your credit card.
Rather than hiding the iPhone Dynamic Island, Apple is reportedly going all-in on it. Photo: Apple
Apple came up with a “significant evolution” for the Dynamic Island that’s part of the display in most iPhone models, according to a noted tipster. Rather than phasing out the dynamic interface, rumors indicate Apple will lean into the feature.
It’s something to look forward to in the iPhone 17 and beyond.
iPhone 17e rumors point to a change in strategy for Apple’s budget handsets. Image: Apple/Cult of Mac
Apple already has the iPhone 17e on its drawing board, according to rumors. Surveys indicate the company has a new strategy that’ll bring much more frequent updates to its most affordable iOS handsets.
Here’s when to expect the replacement for the iPhone 16e, and what hardware changes are coming.
Smoke stars Taron Egerton and
Jurnee Smollett. Image: Apple TV+
Smoke is getting into plenty of people’s eyes. The new true-crime drama on Apple TV+ that stars Taron Egerton made it into the top 10 most popular streaming series, according to two companies that track ratings.
Plus, the Apple TV+ sci-fi action comedy series Murderbot stayed strong in the run-up to its season finale, and the sports comedy Stick still draws a large audience, too.
★★★★☆
The KYY 14” Portable Monitor pairs well with a 14-inch MacBook or a 13-inch iPad. Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
The KYY 14” Portable Monitor challenges the idea that bigger is always better. It’s much smaller than the external display I usually travel with — and that’s exactly why I love it.
Jump for joy! Murderbot season 2 is on the way. Photo: Apple TV+
Murderbot season 1 did well enough in the ratings that Apple TV+ committed to season 2 on Thursday.
The news comes as the season 1 finale of the sci-fi comedy thriller becomes available to stream. A renewal isn’t surprising, given that t series stayed one of the top 10 most-watched shows every week during its entire run.
The latest M5 MacBook Pro rumor says the updated macOS notebook won’t be out until next year. Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac
Apple might not get the next-generation MacBook Pro with the upcoming M5 processor out this autumn, as had been expected. The notebook will instead launch early next year, according to a respected source of insider information.
If true, it means that Apple’s new Mac processor will once again launch in an iPad.
The bendable screen in the Samsung Z Fold 7 is likely headed for the folding iPhone, too. Photo: Marques Brownlee
Those eager for a folding iPhone should glance at the beautiful, bendable screen in the Samsung Z Fold 7, which launched Tuesday. If rumors are correct, this display will also be part of Apple’s foldable. Or something very close to it.
There are no in-depth reviews of the new screen yet, but early indications are that Samsung finally virtually eliminated the crease that’s been the fatal flaw of all previous flexible displays… which is very good news for the folding iPhone.
★★★★☆
Logitech Flip Folio stands out with a keyboard that’s not permanently affixed to its case/stand. Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
The Logitech Flip Folio is a protective keyboard case and stand for iPad Pro and iPad Air models that goes head-to-head against the Apple Magic Keyboard. Having tested both, Logitech’s new offering comes out ahead of Apple’s is some ways, including wider support for screen orientations, and because the keyboard can separate from the case/stand. Plus, a hefty price advantage can’t be overlooked.
Apple keeps selling more and more Macs each quarter. Photo: Apple
Mac shipments increased 21.4% in the second quarter of 2025, according to a market research firm. Apple has shown strong growth in shipments every quarter since the launch of multiple M4-powered Mac models began last autumn, and the new chip has helped grow the company’s share of the global market.
Most of the top Windows makers also saw growth last quarter, but none can match Apple’s pace.
Apple COO Jeff Williams announced his retirement on Tuesday. Photo: Apple
Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer in charge of the company’s global operations since 2010, will retire later this year. Even before then, though, his position will be filled by Sabih Khan, who currently serves as senior vice president of operations.
Save big on M4 iPad Pro and M3 iPad Air and more… if you don’t delay. Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac
Good news for anyone in the market for an iPad: Amazon Prime Day brings low prices on every tablet Apple makes. But that’s underselling it — there are amazing deals here!
The budget iPad 11 is down to a rock-bottom price, and so is the iPad mini. And Amazon significantly cut the Price of iPad Pro and iPad Air, too. We’re talking deals as good as 24% off. You can save hundreds of dollars.
A Tablo TV deal saves you 25% on an over-the-air DVR with antenna. Photo: Nuvyyo/Cult of Mac
You want to cut cable, but can’t imagine giving up recording your favorite programs to watch later? That was me a few years ago, and a Tablo TV tuner was just what I was looking for. This digital video recorder from Nuvyyo captures up to two shows at once off free local airwaves, then streams them to your Apple TV, iPad or iPhone whenever you want.
Alexander Skarsgård plays the eponymous Murderbot in the Apple TV+ series. Photo: Apple TV+
The sci-fi action comedy Murderbot exploded onto the ratings charts after it reached streaming in May, and continues to be popular even as the season finale approaches. Many weeks after a launch, the series from Apple TV+ still appears on the top 10 lists of a company that tracks ratings.
Plus, Owen Wilson‘s sport comedy Stick also pulls in plenty of viewers.
You don’t have to wait until autumn to find out what the Apple Watch Ultra 3 has to offer. Photo: Apple
After a very modest refresh last year, rumors indicate the Apple Watch Ultra 3 — set to launch this September alongside the iPhone 17 series — will mark Apple’s most ambitious wearable update yet.
Here’s what we’re expecting in 2025’s major overhaul of Apple’s rugged smartwatch. Keep reading or check out our latest video.
Give your setup a retro look with Qwerkywriter. Photo: Qwerkytoys
Suppose you want your office to have a retro look, but you can’t give up your modern computers (of course). You need the Qwerkywriter — it has the look of a classic typewriter, but includes an integrated iPad stand. Or it can wirelessly connect to your Mac.
Add a vintage-looking keyboard to your setup, without giving up functionality.
Patience is required for those eager to get a folding iPad. Photo: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac
Apple just hit the pause button on the large folding iPad supposedly on the drawing board in Cupertino, according to a published report from Wednesday. Development work had allegedly been going on for years.
At the same time, the company is reportedly moving ahead with a folding iPhone.
★★★★★
Navee ST3 Pro Electric Scooter: So much fun in a (relatively) small package. Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
While Apple doesn’t make an e-scooter, the Navee ST3 Pro Electric Scooter pairs well with an iPhone. More importantly, it’s both fun and useful, with lots of pickup and range. It comes with plenty of bonus features … all accessible via an iPhone. It even has Bluetooth and Find My support.
I put more than 200 miles on the e-scooter while testing it, driving it on errands and just for fun on streets and sidewalks. I’m genuinely thrilled with it. Here’s why.
Here are the chargers, hubs, power banks and other travel gadgets that I like so much I take them with me on holiday. Graphic: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac
The right travel gadgets make your vacation easier. Whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway or a long-haul flight across the globe, the correct gear can make all the difference. From keeping your devices charged and connected to ensuring entertainment on the go, today’s travel tech is designed to streamline every leg of the journey.
As a frequent traveler, I’ve built up a collection of accessories: chargers, hubs, portable monitors and more. In this guide, I’ll share my must-have gadgets, hoping they’ll upgrade your travel experience, too — whether you’re a frequent flyer, a digital nomad or just someone who likes to stay plugged in wherever the road leads.
Siri might be powered by Anthropic Claude or OpenAI ChatGPT. Image: Cult of Mac
Apple’s struggle to develop artificial intelligence might reach the point where the iPhone-maker will need to outsource one of its core technologies: Siri. A promised AI upgrade for the voice assistant may be powered by large language models created by Anthropic or OpenAI, not Apple itself, according to an unconfirmed report published Monday.
But this is only a possibility — no decision has been made.
Apple is hard at work on a more affordable Vision Air headset. Photo: Apple/ChatGPT/Cult of Mac
The Vision Air is on the drawing board at Apple, according to a trusted analyst. This more consumer-friendly version of the Vision Pro AR headset reportedly will weigh less and cost less. But it won’t be out soon.
At the same time, Apple is also working on its first foray into smart glasses. These are also supposedly still years away, though.