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News - page 33

The rise of privacy-centric apps: How iOS leads the way

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Silhouette of a woman looking at a smartphone with dark clouds behind her and the word
Privacy has never been more important.
AI image: Midjourney/Cult of Mac

With the widespread use of smartphones, laptops and other devices, concerns about privacy in apps become more important every day. Many apps, websites and streaming services demand substantial personal data from users, raising questions about the safety and security of sensitive information.

While almost every app requires some personal information, many lack transparency about their data-collection practices. Some use users’ data to influence algorithms or deliver targeted ads. Others might even sell that data to third parties.

Luckily, Apple — a company that prioritizes user privacy, especially when it comes to iOS — is blazing a trail toward greater transparency. Armed with this knowledge, users can explore external resources to do things like block emails on iPhones and directly utilize Apple’s features to request apps not to track them, limit IP address tracking and disable location services.

This article delves into Apple’s user-friendly features and how other apps and sites incorporate similar practices.

M4 MacBook Air, M3 iPad Air, Mac Studio, iPad 11 go on sale

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Apple's 2025 iPad Air, MacBook Air, and Mac Studio are now on sale.
Several new Apple devices hit store shelves today.
Photo/Graphics: Apple/Rajesh Pandey/CultOfMac

You can now purchase Apple’s 2025 MacBook Air refresh with a faster M4 chip from your nearest retail store. The upgraded Mac Studio with M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips also hits retail stores today.

Additionally, the M3 iPad Air and iPad A16 are also up for sale starting today, March 12.

Metallica immersive video puts Vision Pro owners front and center

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A photo of Metallica guitarist James Hetfield with the words,
We don't recommend banging your head while wearing a Vision Pro.
Image: Apple

Apple’s new immersive concert video Metallica will give Vision Pro owners a unique experience of one of the band’s pulse-pounding shows. Filmed during the band’s M72 World Tour, it captures three Metallica songs in ultra-high-resolution, 180-degree video and Spatial Audio.

In a press release Tuesday, Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich described the immersive video as a revolutionary twist on the standard concert film.

“Game-changing is putting it lightly,” Ulrich said. “Seeing our concert like that, along with the energy of the Mexico City fans — it’s very immersive, and it’s super-fun. We’ve always been interested in pushing the boundaries, and Metallica on Apple Vision Pro is exactly that.”

Massive redesign for iOS 19 and macOS 16 might be hiding in plain sight [Updated]

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macOS 16 could look more like visionOS.
macOS 16 could look more like visionOS.
Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac

Apple intends to massively transform the user interfaces for the iPhone, Mac and iPad later this year, according to a reliable source who says iOS 19, macOS 16 and iPadOS 19 could bring the most significant changes in years.

How will those changes affect the familiar look and feel of Apple’s devices? A software developer speculates that a pair of recently released Apple apps offer a sneak peek at the design overhaul reportedly coming in iOS 19 and macOS 16.

Apple goes after iPhone and Mac bugs with software patches

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iOS 18.3.2 fixes bugs and patches a security hole.
iOS 18.3.2 is out for iPhone, along with macOS 15.3.2, iPadOS 18.3.2 and visionOS 2.3.2.
Image: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Apple introduced on Tuesday four patches for a range of devices to deal with bugs. iOS 18.3.2, macOS 15.3.2, iPadOS 18.3.2 and visionOS 2.3.2 are all ready to download.

In addition to a bug fix related to streaming content, the patches also include a fix for a potentially serious security issue.

Cute video-cam bot bolsters security and plays with pets

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Enabot Ebo Air 2 Companion Robot
This mobile security camera plays with your pets.
Photo: Enabot

Enabot Ebo Air 2 Companion Robot brings enhanced features that make it an appealing addition to your home, the company said Tuesday. Launching with a price tag of $199 (minus 15% off launch discount), this compact mobile robot builds upon its predecessors with significant improvements in camera quality, interactive capabilities and personalization options.

2025 Mac Studio review roundup: Screaming fast

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2025 Mac Studio Reviews
2025 Mac Studio: Probably more power than you really need.
Image: Apple/Cult of Mac

Early reviews of the 2025 Mac Studio tout the speed boost that comes with the Apple M3 Ultra processor, and the M4 Max version is certainly no slouch. And, as reviewers point out, the new chips build on previous versions that offered an impressive set of features packed into a relatively small casing. For those interested in the latest developments in AI-powered performance, check out the latest Apple AI news.

If you’re interested in Apple’s latest laptops, the MacBook Air M3 is now available for purchase.

Considering the new desktop? This is just what you need to know:

M4 MacBook Air reviews: Nice refinements plus lower price equal great value

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M4 MacBook Air reviews
Reviewers agree M4 MacBook Air's small upgrades and price reduction make it a compelling buy.
Image: Apple/Cult of Mac

New M4 MacBook Air reviews find it’s one of Apple’s most compelling laptop updates in recent memory — not because of revolutionary changes, but due to thoughtful refinements and a surprising price reduction. Here’s what reviewers said Tuesday about the new M4 MacBook Air.

Apple Watch sales nosedived in 2024 as rivals surged

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Apple Watch 10 review
The Apple Watch Series 10 failed to boost Apple's smartwatch sales.
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac

Despite the launch of the redesigned Apple Watch Series 10, Apple’s wearable sales declined by a whopping 19% in 2024. The overall smartwatch shipments also fell by 7% in the year.

Although sales declined, Apple remained the top player in the smartwatch market in 2024, beating Samsung and Xiaomi.

EU may slap Apple with modest fine for DMA violation

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The European Commission's draft law could force companies to detect, remove and report CSAM.
The European Commission could take a softer stance against Apple's DMA breach.
Photo: European Commission

The European Commission will reportedly slap Apple and Meta with “modest fines” for breaching the DMA (Digital Markets Act).

The act became a law in EU countries in May 2023, forcing Apple to open its devices to third-party app stores and be more open to competition. This ongoing regulatory pressure raises questions about Apple’s global operations, including where are iPhones made.

Get ready to groove to DJ King Charles III on Apple Music [Updated]

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The King's Music Room playlist
"The King's Music Room" playlist premieres March 10.
Photo: Apple Music

In a literally royal musical celebration, Apple said King Charles III hosts a special radio show and playlist on Apple Music 1 titled “The King’s Music Room.” It commemorates Commonwealth Day, March 10. See King Charles’ playlist and watch his introductory video, below. This is the first time a reigning monarch has guest hosted on Apple Music, by the way.

“Throughout my life, music has meant a great deal to me. I know that is also the case for so many others,” King Charles said. “It has that remarkable ability to bring happy memories flooding back from the deepest recesses of our memory, to comfort us in times of sadness, and to take us to distant places.”

“But perhaps, above all, it can lift our spirits to such a degree, and all the more so when it brings us together in celebration,” he added. “In other words, it brings us joy.”

Update: Check out the King’s list of songs, added below.

Tim Cook dazzles us with new Macs and iPads [The CultCast]

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AI-generated cartoon image of Apple CEO Tim Cook holding a three-eared rabbit and a magic wand, with the logo
Nevermind that rabbit's third ear. Tim Cook is a product magician!
AI image: Midjourney/Cult of Mac

This week on Cult of Mac’s podcast: There’s plenty to talk about after an absolutely magical barrage of new Apple products unveiled this week. We discuss the highlights (and lowlights) of all the new Macs and iPads.

Also on The CultCast:

  • What’s in the latest iOS 18.4 and visionOS 2.4 betas? Griffin gives us an overview of new features.
  • Erfon struggles with yet another Apple buying decision.
  • Griffin gives the iPhone 16e a surprise rave review.

Listen to this week’s episode of The CultCast in the Podcasts app or your favorite podcast app. (Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review if you like it!) Or watch the video live stream, embedded below.

Apple’s iPad-like smart home hub gets significantly delayed

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Apple’s next big thing is a wall-mounted iPad?
Apple’s smart home device might look just a little bit like this.
Concept: Vivint/Apple/Cult of Mac

The launch of a device that will be the centerpiece of Apple’s next foray into smart home technology reportedly got put on hold. The delay in the launch of the wall-mounted iPad-like computer is a result of Apple’s problems finishing work on an AI-enhanced version of the Siri voice assistant, according to a reliable source.

When it comes to making Siri smarter, the struggle is real

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Image of an iPhone with the words
It's official: The smarter Siri that Apple touted last year is taking longer than expected.
Image: Cult of Mac

Apple confirmed Friday that the smarter Siri promised at WWDC24 isn’t coming together as quickly as anticipated. After touting the minor Siri upgrades that already rolled out, a company statement ended on a depressing note.

“We’ve also been working on a more personalized Siri, giving it more awareness of your personal context, as well as the ability to take action for you within and across your apps,” said Apple spokeswoman Jacqueline Roy. “It’s going to take us longer than we thought to deliver on these features and we anticipate rolling them out in the coming year.”

This confirms multiple previous rumors indicating that users pining for a smarter Siri shouldn’t hold their breath.

iPhone 17 Pro Max might get thicker, but for a good reason

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iPhone 17 Pro Max rumors
Apple might not be able to squeeze everything it wants in the iPhone 17 Pro Max without adding some bulk.
Concept: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The iPhone 17 Pro Max expected this autumn will be 5% thicker than the current version, according to a noted tipster.

But that’s not bad news. The extra bulk supposedly is to allow Apple to build a larger battery into its top-of-the-line iOS handset.

First M4 MacBook Air benchmarks reveal 50% speed increase

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2025 MacBook Air with M4 processor
A highlight of the 2025 MacBook Air is its Apple M4 processor.
Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac

The Apple M4 chip going into the new MacBook Air version brings a considerable performance boost. Early benchmark scores show the 2025 version of the macOS notebook runs over 50% faster than the 2024 version.

Steady annual improvements in Apple’s M series chips continue to demonstrate the advantages of the switch away from Intel. If you’re considering an upgrade, checking out the MacBook Air price can help you decide if the latest model is worth the investment. If you’re looking for a breakdown of the latest Mac M4 and whether it’s worth upgrading, this guide has everything you need to know. If you’re comparing the latest models, check out this detailed M4 MacBook Pro comparison to see how it stacks up.

Will Apple’s iPhone 16e strategy scare away SE buyers?

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Will iPhone SE owners buy iPhone 16e
iPhone SE wasn't a very big seller, but the leap to iPhone 16e, pictured, might be a too big a jump for many SE fans.
Photo: D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac

Apple’s recent decision to replace the iPhone SE with the more premium iPhone 16e marks a shift in the company’s approach to the budget smartphone market — and it might be a big risk, according to new research. The new iPhone 16e, priced at $599, represents a pretty big jump from the iPhone SE’s $429 price point. And that raises questions about whether Apple’s strategy will pay off. Will iPhone SE owners buy iPhone 16e?

Apple’s first foldable iPhone could cost a fortune

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Folding iPhone concept
A folding iPhone might look a little something like this concept.
AI concept: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac

Apple’s first foldable iPhone may sport a book-style design and a steep $2,000+ price tag. It will apparently sport a 7.8-inch inner folding display, with a 5.5-inch cover display.

Despite its high price tag, the foldable iPhone will seemingly have a strong replacement demand among loyal Apple fans.

YouTube Premium Lite brings a more affordable ad-free viewing experience

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YouTube Premium Lite is a cheaper alternative to YouTube Premium.
YouTube Premium Lite is a cheaper alternative to YouTube Premium.
Logo/Text: YouTube/Rajesh Pandey/CultOfMac

YouTube introduced a new, cheaper paid tier in the US called YouTube Lite. While the “Lite” plan is light on perks, it also carries a lower monthly subscription fee of $7.99 per month.

YouTube Premium Lite retains the biggest advantage of paying for YouTube: an ad-free viewing experience. Well, almost.

Hallelujah! M4 MacBook Air fully supports 2 external displays

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M4 MacBook Air with two Apple Studio Displays
The M4 MacBook Air can drive more than one external display.
Photo: Apple

Apple unveiled the M3 Ultra chip as an option in the new MacStudio desktop Wednesday. As the company’s most powerful silicon chip to date, it brings unprecedented performance to pro users with demanding workflows. The other option in the new desktop machine is the M4 Max chip, which is actually less powerful than the M3 Ultra.

“M3 Ultra is the pinnacle of our scalable system-on-a-chip architecture, aimed specifically at users who run the most heavily threaded and bandwidth-intensive applications,” said Johny Srouji, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Technologies.

Apple goes to new performance extremes with M3 Ultra chip

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Apple unveils M3 Ultra chip
"M3 Ultra features a 32-core CPU, an 80-core GPU, double the Neural Engine cores, Thunderbolt 5, and support for the most unified memory ever in a personal computer," Apple said.
Photo: Apple

Apple unveiled the M3 Ultra chip as an option in the new MacStudio desktop Wednesday. As the company’s most powerful silicon chip to date, it brings unprecedented performance to pro users with demanding workflows. The other option in the new desktop machine is the M4 Max chip, which is actually less powerful than the M3 Ultra.

“M3 Ultra is the pinnacle of our scalable system-on-a-chip architecture, aimed specifically at users who run the most heavily threaded and bandwidth-intensive applications,” said Johny Srouji, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Technologies.

“Thanks to its 32-core CPU, massive GPU, support for the most unified memory ever in a personal computer, Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, and industry-leading power efficiency, there’s no other chip like M3 Ultra,” he added.

2025 Mac Studio launches as ‘the most powerful Mac ever’

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2025 Mac Studio
The 2025 Mac Studio is here, with either M4 Max and M3 Ultra processors.
Photo: Apple

The long wait for an upgraded Mac Studio finally ended. A version with an M4 Max processor and (surprise!) an M3 Ultra chip launched Wednesday.

“The new Mac Studio is the most powerful Mac we’ve ever made,” said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering. “A complete game-changer for pros around the world — powering both home and pro studios — Mac Studio sits in a class of its own, offering a staggering amount of performance in a compact, quiet design that fits beautifully on your desk. With this new Mac Studio, we’re delivering even more extreme performance with M4 Max and M3 Ultra, support for half a terabyte of unified memory, up to 16TB of superfast storage, and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity. Mac Studio truly is the ultimate pro desktop.”

MacBook Air gets the M4 treatment, lower price and stunning new color

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Sky blue M4 MacBook Air promotional image
The M4 MacBook Air in the new sky blue color.
Image: Apple

Apple unveiled a revised MacBook Air with an M4 chip inside Wednesday. It comes in a beautiful new sky blue color, at an even lower price point — with the same incredible 18 hours of battery life.

“MacBook Air is by far the world’s most popular laptop,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide marketing, said in a press release, “and today we’re giving everyone even more reasons to love it, including a big boost in performance with the M4 chip, a new Center Stage camera, and a beautiful new sky blue color.”

The M4 MacBook Air starts at $999 and will become available on March 12.