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Apple begins shipping Vision Pro to US warehouses

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Apple Vision Pro AR headset Side View
The Vision Pro headset is almost here.
Photo: Apple

Apple reportedly already started shipping the Vision Pro headset in small quantities to its U.S. warehouses. From there, the AR headset will reach the company’s retail stores.

All these preparations suggest a February launch, ensuring Apple will stick to its promised “early next year” timeframe for releasing its next major product.

Monarch: Legacy of Monsters episode 9 hits us with a huge surprise [Apple TV+ recap]

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'Monarch: Legacy of Monsters' episode 9 -- Hollow Earth
Get ready to travel to the bizarre place that is the Axis Mundi.
Photo: Apple TV+

TV+ ReviewMonarch: Legacy of Monsters episode 9 has characters exploring a strange world and making a really surprising discovery.

Read our review/recap for Godzilla-size spoilers about the latest episode, plus speculation about the show’s season finale, coming next week.

Charge all your Apple gear with one 10,000mAh battery pack

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For less than $50, one portable battery can charge a houseful of gear.
Let this $45.99 magnetic battery charge your iPhone, AirPods and more.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you’ve still got an entire corner of your countertop devoted to charging your Apple devices, here’s a PSA: You can finally do away with that spaghetti bowl of cords. Wireless charging has always been more convenient, but thanks to the power and design of the ZeroLemon MagJuice+ Magnetic Wireless Battery Pack, it’s portable and affordable, too.

Save big on Setapp and gain access to more than 240 great Mac apps

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Get access to 240+ Mac productivity apps for less than $73.
This coupon takes $12 extra off a top-selling app hub, but it won't last.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

We’ve been on the Setapp train for years. And the subscription service, which offers hundreds of great Mac apps for one low price, just keeps getting better. Especially with this Setapp sale.

The more than 240 Mac apps in Setapp run the gamut, and you can find the one(s) you need with a simple search. With this special New Year’s promo from Cult of Mac Deals, you can gain access to them all for nearly $50 off the usual price with promo code WINTER15.

Keep Apple devices ready to go with mophie’s convenient 3-in-1 travel charger [Updated review] ★★★★

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Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe version 2★★★★
The new version of the mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe is even more capable.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Roll out the mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe and it’s ready to juice up your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods. Just drop the devices on their appropriate wireless charging mat. And, to make it easier to take on the road, the accessory comes with a carrying case.

I used the original 2022 model, and mophie introduced a new version in late 2023. I retested the multidevice travel charger to see how quickly it wirelessly powers up a variety of Apple products and how easy it is to carry around. Here are my updated results.

Dream of ‘Brazil’ dies in For All Mankind‘s fraught episode 9 ★★★★☆

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For All Mankind season 4, episode 9, Kelly and Ed hug★★★★☆
Tears and hugs aside, Kelly Baldwin isn't falling for her dad's BS.
Photo: Apple TV+

Season 4 of For All Mankind entered its tense final phase Friday, with action heating up on Mars and on Earth ahead of climactic episode 10. Episode 9, “Brazil,” is all about setting up that endgame (and it really could be the End, as we await Apple TV+ news of season 5 renewal … or not).

But two characters won’t live to see that endgame. And many more lives are at risk as forces on Earth seek to control the fight in space over the Goldilocks asteroid’s vast mineral wealth — and maybe even the future of space exploration.

16-year-old Mac Pro drives even more-ancient Cinema Display [Setups]

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2008 Mac Pro and 2005 30-inch Cinema Display
Wait, what year is it again? 2024. Right.
Photo: [email protected]

Say what you will about old Apple hardware, it’s cool and it’s got staying power — sometimes to an amazing degree. Today’s featured setup, for example, sports a 16-year-old Mac Pro with some modifications driving a 19-year old Cinema Display (the big one — 30 inches — first released in 2004, a mere 20 years ago).

The user’s just happy she’s getting the venerable desktop machine to run as fast as her spritely young MacBook Pro … from 2012.

How does Apple use AI and machine learning?

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Siri on an iPhone
Apple takes a different approach to AI from many of its competitors.
Photo: Ste Smith/Cult of Mac

As artificial intelligence and machine learning become mainstream in business, large tech firms like Amazon and Facebook look to introduce AI features that transform the way we engage online through predictive purchase models and other algorithmic means. But how does Apple use AI?

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In contrast to competitors’ high-profile activities, Apple lays low on the AI revolution. In fact, the company scarcely mentioned AI at all until recently. You’d be forgiven for thinking Cupertino might not even be involved in the buzziest tech around.

But it definitely is. Apple’s business teams are cooking up many AI and ML opportunities. Still, Apple takes on AI challenges from a different angle with a more intuitive approach. Let’s look behind the scenes at the world’s largest tech company to see how tomorrow’s ideas are shaping today’s products.

Mac Studio upgraded with M3 Ultra predicted for mid-2024

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Mac Studio with M2 Max or M2 Ultra
Expect a faster Mac Studio in mid-year -- possibly at WWDC2024.
Photo: Apple

A third-generation, speed improved version of the Mac Studio is reportedly on Apple’s agenda for around the middle of 2024. An Apple M3 Ultra processor will supposedly be the highlight of the next iteration of the professional-grade macOS desktop.

The last upgrade reached customers in June 2023.

New keyboard case turns iPhone into CrackBerry

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Clicks Creator Keyboard for iPhone
If you miss physical buttons and can get used to a much-bigger iPhone, this could be for you.
Photo: Clicks Technology

Clicks Technology unveiled its first product Thursday — Clicks Creator Keyboard. It’s a case that fits around an iPhone, providing a full keyboard with physical buttons that may remind people of BlackBerry’s heyday.

“We use keyboards on our desktops, laptops and tablets every day – so it’s kind of odd that we abandoned physical buttons on the smartphone,” said Michael Fisher, Clicks Technology co-founder and a popular YouTube tech reviewer known as MrMobile.

“Clicks brings the tactility and precision of a physical keyboard to iPhone, so people don’t have to wait until they get back to their desks to create or communicate with the satisfying feedback only real buttons can provide,” he added.

Tamagotchi Adventure Kingdom and Cornsweeper join the fun on Apple Arcade

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Tamagotchi Adventure Kingdom is one of three games added to Apple Arcade on Thursday.
Photo: Apple Arcade/Bandai Namco

Tamagotchi Adventure Kingdom promises an epic and nostalgic adventure, while Cornsweeper is a reimagined version of a classic. These are two of the latest additions to Apple Arcade’s extensive catalogue, and are now playable on iPhone, Mac and more.

More are on the way, as are content updates to other popular games in the service.

Dell ratchets up 5K-display competition with new curved 40-incher at CES

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Dell 40-inch curved 5K display
Dell's new 40-inch ultra-wide curved display packs 5K resolution and 5-star eye-comfort certification.
Photo: Dell

Dell introduced new 34-inch and 40-inch ultra-wide, curved, high-resolution monitors Thursday ahead of CES 2024 in Las Vegas, including a big 5K screen that ratchets up the competition against Studio Display and other smaller 5K screens. Dell’s new monitors go on sale in late February.

Both screens are certified for eye comfort, but the larger one is “the world’s first 40-inch 5K monitor certified for five-star eye comfort,” the company said.

Capable, low-priced PDF editor is optimized for iOS 17

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PDF Editor free offer
If you want a high-quality, feature-rich PDF editor but don't want to pay top prices, PDF Editor PDF Book Reader could be for you. Claim your free one-year subscription now!
Image: PDF Editor PDF Book Reader

For anyone who only needs a PDF editor to occasionally sign or modify a document, paying Adobe Acrobat’s monthly price may be too much. So it’s a good thing you have less-expensive yet feature-rich apps like PDF Editor PDF Book Reader to try.

People have relied on the app for years, and now it’s optimized with new features to work brilliantly on iPhones with iOS 17 and on iPads with iPadOS 17. Plus, Cult of Mac readers can get a free one-year subscription to the app (details below).

Jump-start your new year with fresh Apple Fitness+ activities

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Apple Fitness+ workouts
New workouts count down to the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show.
Photo: Apple

Apple Fitness+ brings fresh ways for users to stay active and mindful in the new year with new activities starting January 8, Apple said Thursday.

You can try a new sound meditation theme, a workout program with golfer Rose Zhang, an Artist Spotlight series tied to the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show, Time to Walk episodes available on Apple Podcasts for the first time and more.

Speidel stainless steel Apple Watch bands are built to last

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Stainless steel bands are durable and stylish.
Stainless steel bands are durable and stylish.
Photo: Speidel

Stainless steel Apple Watch bands are where high-tech meets durability, style and comfort. And Speidel makes some exceptional examples, including its Stainless Steel Linked Watchband for Apple Watch.

Believe it or not, right now you can get that tough and stylish band for less than $40 in the Cult of Mac Store.

Killers of the Flower Moon hits Apple TV+ on January 12

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Killers of the Flower Moon on Apple TV+
Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone star in "Killers of the Flower Moon," coming soon to Apple TV+.
Photo: Apple TV+

The wait to stream Killers of the Flower Moon on Apple TV+ is almost over. Martin Scorsese’s historical crime drama debuts on Apple’s streaming service on Friday, January 12.

The epic proved is popular with both critics and audiences when it premiered in theaters around the world in October.

Why and how to limit iPhone 15 to 80% maximum charge

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40 80 rule on iPhone
To preserve the battery in your iPhone as long as possible, follow the 40-80 rule.
Graphic: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

iPhone 15 has a charging trick many users might not be aware of: It can automatically stop charging when the battery level hits 80%. This makes it much easier to follow the “40-80 rule,” which helps increase the long-term useful life of the battery.

Here’s more on how it works, whether you should follow the rule, and how to flip on the setting on your iPhone.

iPhone 17’s front camera could get a big upgrade

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iPhone 15 and 15 Plus review: Pro features for less
A higher-resolution front camera might finally come to the iPhone in 2025.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Apple could give the iPhone’s front camera a significant upgrade in 2025. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the iPhone 17 will ship with a 24MP TrueDepth camera and a 6P lens.

The higher-resolution sensor “will significantly improve the image quality” and capture more detailed and sharper selfies. While Apple’s plans for this year remain uncertain, many are speculating about the iPhone 16 concept, which could hint at the direction of these camera upgrades. Learn more about what’s expected for the iPhone 17 here.

Smart GPS Tracker helps you locate lost valuables

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Keep all your devices safe in 2024 with this Smart GPS Tracker, just $21.99 now.
Track everything you care about with this Smart GPS Tracker. It's cheaper than AirTag and also works with Androids.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

How much would it cost you to lose your keys, luggage or bag right now? At a minimum, it’s a huge inconvenience. And at worst, it could set you back hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Using a smart GPS tracker means you can always keep track of your valuables.

Right now, this one is on sale for just $21.99 — $9 off the regular price of $31. But you’ll have to move quickly, as it’s all part of our epic New Year’s savings event, meaning you only have until January 7, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific, to get this rate.

How to disable new Facebook ‘Link History’ user tracking system

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Facebook link history in iPhone app
Link History in the Facebook iPhone app can be useful if you don't mind Meta tracking you.
Image: Meta/Cult of Mac

To absolutely no one’s surprise, Meta came up with a new way to track its users. Facebook Link History stores a list of websites and webpages that users have gone to from their Facebook feed. The information is used to target advertising.

Fortunately, you can turn off the tracking feature. Here’s how.

iPhone Pro models see continued sales growth as smartphone market flags

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iPhone 15 Pro Max
You're not the only one who wants an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max.
Photo: Apple

While smartphone sales have seen declines recently in general, premium handsets like iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max should see 6% sales growth to hit a new record for 2023, according to a new report Wednesday.

Apple dominates the premium market, but Huawei and Samsung have made inroads, especially because of foldable handsets — a market segment Cupertino hasn’t entered yet.

Dual 5K displays and giant DIY desk distinguish this rig [Setups]

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MacBook Pro setup
Cleaned, reorganized and beautifully underlit, this MacBook Pro and Studio Display rig is ready for work in the new year.
Photo: [email protected]

People often compare LG’s UltraFine 5K display to Apple’s Studio Display because they’re directly comparable, with the same size and resolution. But rarely do you find the two in the same setup. That makes today’s dual MacBook Pro and dual 5K display setup something of a rarity.

That, along with the rarely seen Wacom drawing tablet and the truly massive DIY desk, fashioned from a kitchen countertop and mechanized legs.

Hone your Hollywood knowledge with Movie Crosswords

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Movie Crosswords game on iPad (screenshot)
You can play Movie Crosswords on your iPhone or your iPad.
Image: Digiluna Games

There’s nothing like a good crossword puzzle or word-search game to stimulate the brain. But a lot of themed crossword puzzles offer just a few clues and sometimes an image related to the subject. Not so with Digiluna Games’ Movie Crosswords game.

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The clues in all of the easy-to-play crossword and word-search puzzles relate to the cinematic theme, making them unique — and a great way to boost your Hollywood knowledge.

Live streaming app XSplit will make you look and sound better

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Streamers: Don't wait til 2024 for $140 off this recording app.
Take $140 off the studio that lets streamers broadcast, record and more.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you’re a streamer, your clips should be all about showing fans the fun you’re having. However, that’s hard to do when you’re fiddling with tools, watching your sound levels, etc. That’s why live streaming software XSplit Broadcaster enjoys a growing following among the streaming community on Twitch and elsewhere.

Now, new users can get a lifetime subscription to XSplit for less than $60. That’s a 70% discount off the normal price of $200. Note: This app works on Windows only.

Why a Wi-Fi 7 router should be on your 2024 shopping list

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Wi-Fi 7
You'll be sorry if you buy a wireless router without Wi-Fi 7.
Photo: Wi-Fi Alliance/Cult of Mac

Anyone shopping for a wireless router should get one that supports Wi-Fi 7. This new version will finally go mainstream this year, and you don’t want to miss out. Getting a Wi-Fi 7 router now makes sense if you want to have the fastest and most reliable internet connection possible, now and in the forseeable future.

Unlike most of its predecessors, the primary goal for Wi-Fi 7 isn’t more speed. Instead, it’s more about reliability. That said, a speed improvement is expected.

Here’s what we have to look forward to.