Mobile menu toggle

Keep your iPhone and other Apple gear topped up with this 5-in-1 power bank

By •

Charge all your Apple gear with $50 off this 5-in-1 power bank.
Get 5 charging options in 1 with this $70 Apple-compatible power bank.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Keeping powered up on the go is always a challenge, and there’s nothing worse than your iPhone giving out while providing directions or your Apple Watch shutting down during a workout. Fortunately, you can bring on-the-go charging anywhere with this 5-in-1 Multi-Device Power Pack.

The core of this power pack is a 10,00mAh battery holding enough capacity to charge multiple Apple devices several times. Now, you can snag this nifty charging solution for only $69.99 (regularly $119).

No App Store needed: EU iPhone users can install apps directly from websites

By •

No App Store needed: EU iPhone users can install apps directly from websites
iPhone sideloading just got much closer to actual sideloading.
Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac

EU developers can forgo the App Store entirely and distribute their apps directly to iPhone users from their own websites, Apple said Tuesday. This is a significant reversal from Apple’s original rules, which required devs that wanted to skip the official App Store to place iPhone software in third-party software marketplaces.

In another major change, Apple also will allow EU developers to create app marketplaces that sell only their own software.

Apple touts robust new Vision Pro health and wellness apps

By •

Vision Pro health apps - Cedars-Sinai's Xaia app
Cedars-Sinai’s Xaia app offers patients AI-enabled, conversational mental health support in relaxing spatial environments where they can also do deep breathing exercises and meditation.
Photo: Apple

Powerful new health and wellness apps take advantage of visionOS’s “infinite canvas” to use spatial experiences to improve patient outcomes in clinical settings and at home, Apple said Monday. It seems that Vision Pro health apps are changing medical care.

“We’re thrilled to see the incredible apps that developers across the healthcare community are bringing to Apple Vision Pro,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations. “The imagination and drive of our developers, combined with the technical capabilities of visionOS, are igniting new possibilities for physicians, frontline workers, and even students, and we can’t wait to see what’s to come.”

iOS 18 could bring hearing aid functionality to AirPods Pro

By •

iOS 18 could bring hearing aid functionality to AirPods Pro
Conversation Boost in current AirPods Pro acts like a hearing aid but Apple reportedly wants to go farther.
Graphic: Apple

AirPods Pro might be able to act more like a hearing aid with the release of iOS 18, according to an Apple tipster.

The additional audio function would benefit those with slight hearing loss who aren’t ready for more serious hearing assistance.

Classic Macintosh SE stands with new Studio Display [Setups]

By •

MacBook Pro and Studio display setup with classic Macintosh SE
A classic Macintosh SE sits off to the right of the M1 MacBook Pro and Studio Display setup, and it actually gets some use.
Photo: [email protected]

Pimping out a computer setup with vintage gear is super-cool, even if the old stuff doesn’t get much use (or is solely for display purposes). Today’s M1 MacBook Pro setup recently added a new Studio Display, and both of those modern machines bask in the glory of a nearby classic Macintosh SE from the 1980s.

The ancient all-in-one computer still works and it even gets some use.

Apple TV+ takes home no Oscars despite 13 nominations [Updated]

By •

Apple TV+ movie
Killers of the Flower Moon got 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. But it didn't win any.
Photo: Apple TV+

No Apple TV+ film won an Academy Award on Sunday, despite 10 nominations for Martin Scorsese’s historical epic Killers of the Flower Moon — including Best Picture — and three for Ridley Scott’s historical epic Napoleon.

Despite the final results, Apple made it clear that it is honored to be nominated. And both films have drawn large audiences since they debuted on Apple’s streaming service.

Entry-level M3 MacBook Air uses significantly faster SSD

By •

The new MacBook Air with M3
Base M3 MacBook Airs ship with faster storage than their predecessors.
Photo: Apple

Apple fixed the slow storage speed that plagued M2 Macs on the M3 MacBook Air. Early testing indicates the entry-level M3 MacBook Air delivers significantly faster read/write speeds than its predecessor.

The slow SSD transfer speed only affected entry-level M2 Macs due to them using a single-chip NAND.

Are AirTags waterproof? [Key facts and best solutions]

By •

Are AirTags waterproof?
Don't be nervous: AirTags are probably waterproof enough for your needs.
Photo: Auguras Pipiras/Blaque X/Cult of Mac

Are AirTags waterproof? Keeping liquids out of our electronics isn’t always easy. Especially when it’s something we take with us everywhere, like our AirTags. Those with Apple’s handle little item tracker, or anyone thinking about getting one, might ask the questions:

  • Can AirTags be submerged in water?
  • Can AirTags go through the wash?
  • Can my dog swim with AirTag?

I’ve kept a tracking tag on my indoor/outdoor cat for years, so I fully understand wanting to be sure a bit of rain won’t cause problems. And I have tags on my keys and many other items, and I also don’t want a trip through the wash to ruin them.

Fortunately, I have lots of good news.

$18 travel charger can handle iPhone, Apple Watch and more

By •

Enjoy wireless, easy charging for your Apple gear with this $18 charging solution.
Save an extra 20% on this foldable, wireless charging station.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Need a compact travel charger for iPhone, Apple Watch and more? This Foldable Wireless Magnetic Charging Station does the trick, with its two MagSafe-compatible charging pads and integrated adapters. Through March 10, this nifty charging option is only $17.59 with code ENJOY20.

Vision Pro: Don’t confuse the power of AR with the limitations of VR

By •

Vision Pro: Don't confuse the power of AR with the limitations of VR
Comparing Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 comes down to the advantages of AR over VR.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Anyone criticizing Apple Vision Pro as a Meta Quest at seven times the price misses the profound difference between the two headsets. Apple made an augmented reality device, while Meta focused on virtual reality.

And the basic distinction between the two is that AR is the future of computing while VR will always be much more limited.

Both Apple and Meta seem to realize this, which is why their devices support AR and VR. The difference comes down to which one the rivals focus on, and that’s where Apple has the advantage.

This 13-port docking station is a real bargain, especially with new price drop!

By •

Find a home for all the tech with 14% off this 13-port docking station.
With 13 ports, this $39.99 hub is probably all you need to stay connected.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you want to transform a MacBook or iPad into a high-performance workstation, you’re going to need a USB-C hub to connect all your gear. And this 13-in-1 Docking Station with Dual HDMI is a great way to keep everything plugged in and organized.

If you need maximum connectivity but want to spend minimum cash, you’re in luck. Because a limited-time deal drops the price of this bestselling bargain dock to just $39.99 with code ENJOY20.

M3 MacBook Air benchmarks sound amazing, but what’s next? [The CultCast]

By •

M3 MacBook Air promo image with The CultCast logo (episode 637).
These new MacBook Airs sound like absolute screamers.
Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac

This week on Cult of Mac’s podcast: Surprise! Apple drops new MacBook Airs with M3 chips inside. The new laptops’ specs and first benchmarks make the performance boost sound quite impressive indeed. But what should we expect next for the MacBook, and when should we expect it?

Join us for a titillating conversation about the current state (and future) of Apple’s laptops.

Also on The CultCast:

  • Apple launched the M3 MacBook Airs with amazing specs, but nothing but a press release. Sounds like it’s about to do the same with new iPads. There’s a lot to look forward to if you’re a fan of Apple tablets.
  • An inside look at the canceled Apple car project offers fascinating details about crazy prototypes, dashed dreams and crushing indecision.
  • How cool would a MacBook with a folding 20-inch screen be?
  • The European Union demands a cool 1.8 billion euros from Apple over its dealings with Spotify. Sounds like a shakedown!
  • iOS 17.4 brings some useful new features to your iPhone, and Griffin tells us all about the best ones.

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.

Constellation space-thriller becomes latest hit for Apple TV+

By •

'Constellation' space-thriller becomes latest hit for Apple TV+
Audiences are thrilled by Constellation on Apple TV+.
Photo: Apple TV+

Add Constellation to the lengthy list of Apple TV+ shows that are standout hits. The new sci-fi mystery horror series sits near the top of the popularity charts of two different ratings services, and has ever since its February premiere.

Masters of the Air remains popular, too. As do the historical dramas Napoleon and Killers of the Flower Moon. That puts all four of these series/films ahead of almost all the content on any streaming service.

Connect this $25 multicolor smart light to your iPhone and set the mood

By •

Control this smart light with your phone, on sale for $24.99.
Save $15 on this smart light that pairs with your iPhone.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you’re looking for a stylish new LED table lamp that can set any mood, this one delivers — and it gives you notifications right from your iPhone. The Notti smart light hooks up to your smartphone through Bluetooth to give you a heads-up with a pop of color for calls, texts, Facebook updates and more.

For a limited time, you can get the Notti smart light on sale for just $24.99.

Apple relents, reinstates Epic Games developer account

By •

Epic Games vs Apple: Developer account battle
Epic Games came out ahead in the latest skirmish between the developer and Apple.
Image: Killian Bell/Cult of Mac

Epic Games can release Fortnite in the EU and open an App Store rival after Apple restored the company’s developer account. This came as the European Commission was starting an inquiry into why the account had been cancelled.

Apple called Epic Games “untrustworthy” when it pulled the account.

Cool concept video shows possible iOS 18 generative AI features

By •

iOS 18 concept video
Generative AI features will almost certainly be the centerpiece of iOS 18.
Concept: Kevin Kall

New generative AI features are expected to be a highlight of iOS 18, and a skilled artist created a concept video that presents an early look at how they might work.

The video also shows other suggested upgrades, like bringing Split View — Apple’s multitasking feature that lets two apps appear side by side on iPad (and Mac) — to the iPhone.

Get almost $400 off 12.9-inch iPad Pro

By •

2021 iPad Pro - $400 off iPad Pro
Don't miss this chance to get a great iPad for almost $400 off.
Photo: Apple

With Apple expected to release new iPad models anytime now, Amazon bargain site offers a doozy of a deal on the still-awesome 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro: $389 off. Getting almost $400 off iPad Pro is not a deal we see every day.

“iHad an iPad but iLost it and now iSad,” Woot says at the top of the sale page. No need to be sad when you can bag a fantastic, brand-new, full-sized M1 iPad with 128GB of storage for just $809.99.

Scarlett audio interface masters Mac Studio rig’s sound [Setups]

By •

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB Audio interface
This audio interface turns your Mac into a music studio for two microphones and two instruments.
Photo: Focusrite

If you’re going to make and manipulate music or other sound with your Mac setup, odds are you need a good audio interface. Today’s Mac Studio workstation relies on a Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB audio interface when the user makes YouTube videos, for example.

Check it out below, along with the rest of the setup’s gear.

Get Windows 10 Pro for just $17 in CdkeySales’ March Sale

By •

CdkeySales Windows logo, Windows 10 Pro for $17
Enter promo code CULT at CdkeySales.com to score major savings on Microsoft software.
Photo: CdkeySales.com

March may come in like a lion and leave like a lamb, but it also offers fantastic deals on Microsoft software, thanks to CdkeySales.com’s March Sale. Bargains galore await on Microsoft productivity software like Windows and Office, including a great Windows 10 Pro deal for just $17.05.

SPONSORED
This post is brought to you by CdkeySales.
You can find surprisingly low prices at software activation keys provider CdkeySales.com now and throughout the year. To get the most savings, enter promo code CULT. That cuts an additional 30% off the site’s low prices on software keys. And what’s more, if you buy Windows 10, you get a free upgrade to Windows 11.

Apple expects 13-inch OLED iPad Pro to outsell smaller version

By •

2024 OLED iPad Pro mockup
Apple expects the larger 2024 iPad Pro model to be the more popular.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Apple reportedly ordered 8.5 million OLED screens for the iPad Pro models it’s expected to launch soon. More of these panels are for the 13-inch version of the tablet than they are for the 11-inch one.

Leaks indicate the next generation iPad Pro will reach store shelves later this month. Possibly even next week.

Apple will make it easier to switch from iPhone to Android

By •

Apple will make it easier to switch from iPhone to Android
Making the switch from iPhone to Android will get easier. But there's a caveat.
Image: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Apple is building a way out of the iOS “walled garden.” It promised on Thursday to make it easier to switch the data from an iPhone to an Android or other handset.

That said, the migration tool is part of Apple complying with the European Union’s Digital Market Act so the solution might not be available outside of the EU.

Get a 4K dashcam that doubles as a backup cam

By •

Take 20% off this 4K dash cam / backup cam combo for your car.
Record your trips, and back up safely, with this dual-cam touchscreen that mounts on your rearview mirror.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

The more time you spend in your car, the more dashcams seem like a really good idea. They’re a great way to monitor the road and protect yourself in case of an accident, but a cheap cam can be more trouble than it’s worth. This 4K dashcam/backup cam combo covers all the bases — and it’s on sale for a limited time.

When it comes to features, this 4K touchscreen dashcam and backup cam delivers everything a safe driver needs. The 10-inch IPS touchscreen attaches easily to your rearview mirror. And for a limited time, you can grab one for just $76.79 with code ENJOY20.

Maya Rudolph gives away $120 billion in new Loot comedy trailer

By •

Maya Rudoph
Maya Rudolph stars as Molly Wells on season two of Apple TV+ comedy series "Loot."
Photo: Apple TV+

Ridiculously rich people are the problem, ridiculously rich person Molly Wells (Maya Rudolph) says in the season two trailer for comedy series Loot, out Thursday. And that’s why she’ll give away her whole $120 billion fortune. Or she’ll try, anyway.

Loot season two debuts with two episodes April 3 on Apple TV+.

Here are the new features to try in macOS Sonoma 14.4

By •

macOS 14 Sonoma
macOS Sonoma 14.4 brings in a couple of nice tweaks.
Photo: Apple

The wait is over for macOS Sonoma 14.4, with the new version going out a bit sooner than expected. It brings in new emoji plus auto-generated transcripts in the Apple Podcasts app.

watchOS 10.4 also went to all users on Thursday, as did tvOS 17.4 and visionOS 1.1.