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Slow down and relax with Japanese Rural Life Adventure

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'Japanese Rural Life Adventure' on Apple Arcade
Japanese Rural Life Adventure uses a gorgeous and carefully crafted pixel art style.
Image: Game Start/Apple Arcade

Fans of cozy life simulation games will enjoy Japanese Rural Life Adventure. It’s about living your best (digital) life, with plenty of the traditional culture of Japan mixed in.

The app debuted Friday on the Apple Arcade subscription gaming service.

Charge 3 Apple devices quickly and safely with this $25 cable

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Charge your Apple devices quickly and safely with this $25 3-in-1 cable.
With two Lightning connectors and one Apple Watch puck, this three-way cable is great for Apple fans. Just don't expect it to work with iPhone 15!
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Yes, Apple pulled the plug on the Lightning cable when the iPhone 15 switched to USB-C. But plenty of existing gear still uses the proprietary cable that charged the last decade of Apple devices.

If you still need Lightning in your life, don’t miss this deal on a three-in-one cable that comes with two Lightning connectors and one Apple Watch charging puck. It costs just $24.99 (regularly $34), and it lets you charge three Apple devices at once. Plus, you can save even more with a two-pack!

Unlock a lifetime of learning with more than 4,000 online courses

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Secure a lifetime of e-learning courses for just $119.99.
This Skill Success lifetime membership is on sale for only $119.99.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Whether you want to boost your professional skills or branch out by mastering something a little less serious, Skill Success makes learning simple and fun.

Loaded with thousands of expert-driven online courses, Skill Success is your lifelong pass to personal enrichment. And for a limited time, you can get a Skill Success lifetime membership for only $119.99 (regularly $540).

iPhone 15 USB-C port doesn’t hide any nasty secrets

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A mockup of a blue braided cable.
The iPhone 15 doesn't care if you use an Apple USB-C cable or one made by some other company.
Photo: Cult of Mac

Apple didn’t tinker with the USB-C port in the iPhone 15 series to disadvantage standard cables. Instead, the port handles charging and data transfers like any other USB-C port.

This throws cold water on suspicions that the new iPhones would require special MFi cables to get the maximum data or charging rates.

Tim Cook’s favorite iPhone 15 Pro color is …

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Apple's CEO went for Natural Titanium, but all the colors caught his eye.
Apple's CEO went for Natural Titanium, but all the colors caught his eye.
Photo: @[email protected]

Lots of folks agonize over choosing a new iPhone color when fresh handsets like the 15 series come out — even Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Or so he said in a brief interview sometime around  iPhone 15’s release Tuesday. But in explaining his choice of Natural Titanium, he managed to praise every available color equally, and even in exactly the same way.

Try the cheap way to get an Apple display [Setups]

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You won't believe how little the user paid for those monitors.
You won't believe how little the user paid for those monitors.
Photo: [email protected]

The No. 1 complaint about Apple displays? They’re too expensive. People love them, but not everyone will pony up the cash to grab a $1,600 Studio Display or, heaven help us, a $5,000 Studio Display XDR.

Today’s featured MacBook Pro setup provides a much-cheaper alternative that might work for some people. It uses a pair of old-but-beautiful Cinema Displays that cost a grand total of $74.

Elegant new 3-in-1 MagSafe charging stand is perfect for Standby Mode

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The premium charger is perfect for your nightstand, with an iPhone in Standby Mode like a classic alarm clock.
The premium charger is perfect for your nightstand, with an iPhone in Standby Mode like a classic alarm clock.
Photo: Twelve South

With the iPhone 15 series and new Apple Watches now out, the accessories floodgates are open. One of the first products through is an updated Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe charging stand. And it’s made for MagSafe and ideal for iOS 17’s Standby Mode.

So you can turn your iPhone into a classic bedside alarm clock or smart display with various widgets. And you can charge it alongside Apple Watch and AirPods.

Get up to 90% off Windows ($14) and Office ($20) at SCDkey.com

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Use promo code CULT at SCDKey.com to score major savings on Microsoft software.
Use promo code CULT at SCDKey.com to score major savings on Microsoft software.
Photo: SCDKey.com

Even with classes back in session at schools everywhere, it’s not too late to get ready with new versions of Microsoft’s crucial software, Windows and Office. You can score great low prices on them in the back-to-school sale at SCDKey.com.

SPONSORED
This post is brought to you by SCDKey.com.
Check out the selection at software activation keys provider SCDKey.com. To get the most back-to-school savings, enter promo code CULT. That cuts an additional 30% off the site’s low, low prices on software keys. And you get a free upgrade to Windows 11 when you buy Windows 10.

Tilting iPhone platform sets 100W multidevice GaN charger apart [Review] ★★★★☆

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This unusual GaN charger juices up MagSafe iPhones via the tilting platform and other devices via USB-C and USB-A ports (up to 100W).★★★★☆
This unusual GaN charger juices up MagSafe iPhones via the tilting platform and other devices via USB-C and USB-A ports (up to 100W).
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac

Need a compact and potent MagSafe charging station to replace a slow 3-in-1? Coming out just after iPhone 15’s release, Ugreen’s unusual new Nexode 100W GaN Charging Station could fit the bill, charging up to four devices at once.

Rolled out Thursday, the speedy charger takes up a small space by putting a MagSafe platform for iPhone that tilts up on top and USB-C and USB-A ports in the squat body. The company sent me one to try.

Costco’s famous savings start the instant you jump on this deal

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Sweet deal! Save on a Costco membership.
Costco savings seem even sweeter with this deal.
Photo: JJBers/Flickr CC/Modified by Cult of Mac

Shopping on a budget isn’t easy, especially when you have to run from store to store to get all your errands done. That’s a waste of gas and a waste of time! Cut down on trips without limiting your selection by shopping at Costco instead.

With a Costco membership, you’ll save on high-quality items, from groceries to Apple gear. And now, you can get a one-year Costco Gold Star Membership plus a $30 Digital Costco Shop Card* for just $60.

iPhone 15 Pro demand overwhelms Apple [Updated]

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The Pro lineup color choices.
The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are already in short supply.
Photo: Apple

Anyone who even slightly delayed ordering the new iPhone 15 Pro models when they went on sale Friday morning faces a lengthy wait for their devices to be delivered. The delays extend into November for some handsets and configurations.

In addition, problems marred the preorder process via the online Apple Store, possibly due to high demand for the new titanium Pro phones.

Apple confirms iPhone 12 software update in France to reduce RF radiation

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iPhone 12 review
iPhone 12's high radiation level is not a cause for concern.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Apple will roll out a software update for the iPhone 12 in France to meet the required radio-frequency radiation levels. The company had to stop selling the iPhone 12 in the region due to RF radiation concerns.

A French regulatory body will test and approve the update. After that, Apple can resume iPhone 12 sales in the country.

iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro preorders go live [Updated]

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The iPhone 15 Pro models feature a strong and lightweight new titanium design.
Time to place your iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro preorder.
Photo: Apple

Apple began accepting preorders for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro series early Friday morning. The company showcased the devices earlier this week during its “Wonderlust” event.

Unlike last year, when Apple staggered the iPhone release dates, the entire iPhone 15 lineup will begin shipping a week from now on September 22.

Get the awesome new Modular Ultra Apple Watch face

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Apple Watch Ultra with the Modular Ultra face
With eight complications, the new Modular Ultra face can show a lot of info.
Photo: Leander Kahney/Cult of Mac

Apple is about to launch a cool new watch face for the Apple Watch Ultra called “Modular Ultra.” If you’re looking for more variety, check out the 50 best Apple Watch faces to find the perfect look for your device.
The new face does a lot: It allows up to eight complications, including the customizable bezel that can show water depth, elevation or seconds. I think it looks super-cool. And just wait until you see the night mode.

If you saw the new watch face during the Apple Watch Ultra 2 segment of Apple’s “Wonderlust” event Tuesday and want it right now, you’re in luck: It works with the original Apple Watch Ultra and is already available in the latest watchOS 10 beta.

Here’s how to download, install and customize it.

Hop on the AI train with this program for beginners

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Build a strong foundation in ML and AI with this program for beginners, now just $30.
Interested in a career in artificial intelligence and machine learning? This $30 program can help you build a strong foundation.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Just like artificial intelligence, which exploded into the mainstream recently, machine learning is the future. While most of us have heard about AI and how it’s changing how everything works with programs like ChatGTP, machine learning might not be as well-known.

Machine learning is a specific branch of AI that focuses on using data and algorithms to imitate how humans learn, with a gradual improvement in accuracy. According to an article on LinkedIn, both are rapidly growing fields. This Machine Learning for Absolute Beginners program can give you a solid foundation if you’re considering a career in either area. It’s now only $29.99 (regularly $300).

Versatile new 4-in-1 MagSafe charger takes unusual form

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You can see in the photograph how the MagSafe charging pad for iPhone can sit flush or tilt up.
You can see in the photograph how the MagSafe charging pad for iPhone can sit flush or tilt up.
Photo: Ugreen

The new Ugreen Nexode 100W GaN Charging Station, rolled out Thursday, combines MagSafe charging for iPhone with GaN USB-C charging for other devices in a compact form factor, the company said.

I’ll have an in-depth review of the new charger, which Ugreen said is ideal for home and on-the-go use with the new iPhone 15 and other MagSafe iPhones, on Friday.

Brie Larson’s subversion heats up new Lessons in Chemistry trailer

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This cooking show comes with some broiling-hot commentary.
This cooking show comes with some broiling-hot commentary.
Photo: Apple

Frustrated young scientist Brie Larson explores her love of cooking — it’s chemistry, after all — and her distaste for the patriarchy in the second trailer for upcoming limited series Lessons in Chemistry. Apple TV+ set it on the table for hungry viewers Thursday.

Larson plays a young scientist in the 1950s who is wrongly terminated from a lab job before becoming host of a cooking show where women’s rights serve as a crucial ingredient. You can have a bigger bite when the series debuts October 13.

Sell your old iPhone, Apple Watch and more in time to upgrade

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watchOS Beta
We can help you pay for your next Apple Watch.
Photo: Ste Smith/Cult of Mac

The entire iPhone 15 lineup goes up for preorder from Apple’s online store tomorrow morning. They might be pricey — in fact, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the most expensive iPhone yet — but there’s an easy way you can earn some quick cash to help you pay for them.

Sell your old Apple devices to Cult of Mac!

Our buyback program makes it incredibly easy to turn your old iPhone, Apple Watch and other gear into real cash. And we typically pay more than any other service. What’s more, you can get a quote now and hold onto your device until your upgrade arrives. Click here to learn more.

Find out how much you could save on your next upgrade today.

Here’s your chance to get $200 off M2 MacBook Air

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This deal is on the M2 MacBook Air in Midnight, but you can find other laptops on sale, too.
This deal is on the M2 MacBook Air in Midnight, but you can find other laptops on sale, too.
Photo: Best Buy

How would you like to score a 13.6-inch M2 MacBook Air for $899, a couple hundred bucks off the regular price?

More than 4,600 people on Best Buy’s website give the slender laptop a rating of 4.9 out of 5.0. And now it’s on sale.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Final Killers of the Flower Moon trailer packs a powerful punch

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Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone star in the epic historical tale.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone star in the epic historical tale.
Photo: Apple

Apple TV+ dropped the final trailer and some fine move-poster images Wednesday for Martin Scorcese’s Killers of the Flower Moon, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro and Lily Gladstone. And if the powerful video, below, doesn’t make you want to see the film, nothing will.

The streaming service often calls upcoming movies and shows “highly anticipated,” and it’s no exaggeration in this case. The epic historical drama premieres October 20 in theaters, including IMAX screens, and afterward on Apple TV+.

Some Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands delay delivery to November

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Apple Watch Ultra 2 with Trail Loop band
Is this band worth waiting five or six extra weeks for an Apple Watch Ultra 2?
Photo: Apple

Those who want a new Apple Watch Ultra 2 as soon as possible need to think carefully about what band to get with it. With some bands, the wearable is available on launch day later this month. But with others the wait stretches out to November.

So do you really, really want that Trail Loop in Orange/Beige?

Stop annoying spam calls on your iPhone with this simple solution

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The best way to stop spam robocalls is to stop data brokers from collecting and selling your data.
The best way to stop spam robocalls is to stop data brokers from collecting and selling your data.
Image: Surfshark

Spam calls to your iPhone are an annoying distraction and — as many folks would say — a violation of your privacy. But you don’t have to live with them if you use Incogni.

SPONSORED
This post is brought to you by Surfshark.
In fact, the Incogni personal data removal service does more than just cut down on spam call volume. It also helps defend against the scams and identity theft that can ensue when rogues find or buy your data online.

No, Apple didn’t change the iPhone connector to make money

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iPhone 15 and USB-C cable with money falling in the background
It's not about money this time.
Photo: Apple/Public Domain

No, Apple didn’t change the Lightning connector on the iPhone 15 to make more money selling you new cables and dongles. It’s a common conspiracy theory that Apple switches the connector all the time for lining their pockets, but it doesn’t hold up to scrutiny.

First of all, Apple changes the connector very rarely; this is only the second occurrence in 16 years. Secondly, Apple is actually giving up money to make the switch happen. Not that there’s much money to be made selling Lightning cables, anyway. And all that aside, it’s out of Apple’s hands — USB-C is European Union law.

Why you might be interested in Apple’s new USB-C EarPods

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Apple USB-C EarPods
You don't have to buy AirPods to get decent earbuds from Apple for your Mac or iPad.
Photo: Apple

Apple’s transition away from the old Lightning connector includes a USB-C version of EarPods, and these can now be purchased online for under $20.

The wired earbuds that come with iPhone are surprisingly good — audio quality is closer to AirPods than you might realize. And there are other advantages for Mac and iPad users, too.