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Apple boosts iPhone, Mac and iPad trade-in values

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MacBook, iPad, iPhone and Apple Watch
Users of many Apple computers can trade them in for cash.
Photo: Apple

Apple bumped how much it will pay for trading in used products. An iPhone 13 series model now brings in as much as $600, a previous-generation iPad Air is worth up to $320, while the trade-in value for a MacBook Pro is as much as $730.

The payouts have increased up to $160 when compared to what Apple was offering last week.

One year in, Amazon Luna+ cloud gaming is fun but limited [Review]

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Amazon Luna brings console-quality games to iOS and iPadOS.
Amazon Luna+ lets Mac, iPad and iPhone play console games. The technology is brilliant -- game selection is less so.
Image: Amazon

You don’t need a console to play console games. Amazon Luna+ lets Mac, iPad and iPhone play top-quality titles with an external controller.

It’s been exactly a year since the cloud-gaming service launched, so I revisited Luna+ to see how it’s evolved. There’s a lot to like, but some significant limitations too.

New Apple TV+ trailer showcases Real Madrid soccer club’s epic season

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The new three-part documentary debuts March on Apple TV+.
The new three-part documentary debuts March on Apple TV+.
Photo: Apple TV+

Apple TV+ kicked off an upcoming documentary series — Real Madrid: Until the End — with a trailer Wednesday. In it, soccer icon David Beckham raves about the famous Spanish soccer club’s remarkable 2021-2022 season. It was loaded with drama and plenty of come-from-behind victories on the way to the club taking the Champions League title.

The three-part documentary series premieres on Apple TV+ on Friday, March 10.

Correction: Linux will not run on Apple silicon

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NOT the year of Linux on the Mac.
Linux on the desktop has been foiled once again.
Image: PantheraLeo/Wikimedia Commons/D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac

Last week, I wrote a story incorrectly concluding that a full Linux desktop environment would soon run on Macs with Apple silicon. This was a misunderstanding of the facts.

While some of the work in the Asahi Linux project has been worked into Linux Kernel 6.2, and while Linux 6.2 will be adopted by the next major versions of Ubuntu and Fedora, this does not mean that Apple silicon Macs will be able to boot into these desktop environments.

M2 MacBook Air with 512GB storage drops to lowest-ever price

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2022 MacBook Air with M2 processor
Apple's M2 MacBook Air with 512GB storage is irresistible after a $199 discount.
Photo: Apple

Apple’s M2 MacBook Air provides terrific value for money. And with a massive $199 discount that Amazon is offering on the machine, it is an even better deal.

While the M2 MacBook Air is frequently on discount, this is the lowest price its 512GB configuration has hit so far.

3 loaded iMacs and a PC pump up 8-display workstation [Setups]

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Three of the displays are iMacs and five are Dell 4K monitors.
Three of the displays are iMacs and five are Dell 4K monitors.
Photo: Hoa Mai

In Monday’s featured computer setup we showcased four tall displays and mentioned we sometimes see six-display setups. But how about eight displays in one setup? That’s today’s outfit.

Hoa Mai, who works in post production on documentary films in Los Angeles, sent Cult of Mac his massive setup. It features three iMacs, a PC and five Dell 4K monitors. Talk about Mission Control.

Apple remains committed to completely dumping Intel chips

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Why the Mac Pro might lack upgradable RAM and eGPUs
The 2023 Mac Pro won't be simply the 2019 model with an M-series processor. But it is expected soon.
Image: Cult of Mac

A high-level Apple executive says an upgraded Mac Pro is on the way, even if he did so in a backhanded way.

The company’s VP of Worldwide Product Marketing said in an interview that his company has “a clear goal to transition fully to Apple silicon.” That’s an oblique reference to the Mac Pro, the only macOS computer still running an Intel processor. A replacement with an Apple M-series chip could be out in mere weeks.

Unblock streaming channels with a lifetime deal on Getflix VPN

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Save big this streaming-friendly VPN from Getflix, now $39.99.
Bypass geo-restrictions with a special deal on this secure VPN.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you’re a frequent streamer in the market for a fast, reliable and truly private VPN, you should check out Getflix. This innovative VPN fueled by smart DNS technology lets you bypass geo-restrictions without slowing down your internet connection.

Getflix unblocks a ton of free UK TV, including BBC (Premier League soccer and more), ITVX, MY5 and others. It’s also great for overseas streamers wanting to access georestricted US streaming services like Disney+, Vudu, Hulu, Tubi, HBOMax, Paramount+ and more. Plus, you can set up multiple devices on the same network, including Apple TV.

Right now, a lifetime subscription is on sale for only $49.99.

Get finance hacks that will aid you this tax season and beyond for just $29.99

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Get finance hacks that will help you this and every tax season for $29.99.
Conquer your taxes with this $29.99 personal finance master class.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If there’s one good thing about tax season, it’s the renewed focus it brings to our finances. Every April, we get a good hard look at the money we brought in last year — and how we made the most of it (or didn’t).

Here’s an idea: Instead of stressing about it all at once, why not make this the last year that the IRS gives you a wake-up call? All it takes is a little financial education, and that’s exactly what you’ll get in the 9-Course Guide to Recession-Proofing Your Finances.

HomePod 2: Does it sound better or worse than the original?

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Erfon Elijah comparing the new HomePod (left) to the original (right).
Erfon puts the new HomePod (left) head to head with the original (right). And I must say, I love the shirt.
Photo: Erfon Elijah

The CultCast host Erfon Elijah finally got our hands on the coveted HomePod 2 speakers. He put the 2023 model head-to-head with the 2018 model the way it’s meant to be enjoyed: in a stereo pair.

The new HomePod comes loaded with new features: smart home connectivity, a brighter top panel, a U1 chip, temperature and humidity sensors … but the big question is, how does it sound?

Want to never lose your keys again? Here’s how.

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With an AirTag keychain, Find My will keep those keys from getting away from you.
With an AirTag keychain, Find My will keep those keys from getting away from you.
Photo: Mujjo

If you’re tired of misplacing or flat-out losing your keys, take heart. Accessories maker Mujjo introduced its new, luxe-leather Canopy AirTag Keychain on Tuesday.

It includes a little magnet to help keep the AirTag tracking device in place inside the pocket. And while it’s just another one of many AirTag keychains out there, it looks like a nice option.

Connect 3 displays to any Mac with these new docking stations

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Connect 3 displays to any Mac with these new docking stations
The Plugable UD-768PDZ (at left) and UD-3900PDH are USB-C docks that add up to three external displays to a Mac.
Photo: Plugable

Plugable expanded its product line with two new triple display USB-C docking stations. These can add three screens even to Macs that are ordinarily limited to one external monitor.

The UD-3900PDH and UD-768PDZ docks also feature additional ports, including USB-A, Ethernet and SD card readers.

Google tweaks Chrome to reduce MacBook battery drain

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The Chrome browser may soon become a more efficient MacBook battery user.
The Chrome browser may soon become a more efficient MacBook battery user.
Photo: Google/Apple

Google said Tuesday it’s making several changes to the Chrome browser to make it less of a MacBook battery hog. Modifications include adjusting timers to wake the CPU less often, tuning memory compression and further optimizing Energy Saver mode.

The company’s tests using a 13-inch M2 MacBook Pro suggest the tweaks may help folks browse for 17 hours or watch YouTube for 18 hours on a single charge.

Your new wardrobe hero: Stunning braided-metal Apple Watch band

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This is one elegant Apple Watch band.
This is one elegant Apple Watch band.
Photo: Goldenerre

“Meet your new wardrobe hero!” Goldenerre enthused about its drop-dead gorgeous Herringbone Braided Apple Watch band. It comes in gold, rose gold or silver stainless steel. It’s another Goldenerre piece that makes a statement. It could be yours for less than $150.

And you can find your new wardrobe hero in the Cult of Mac Store. Whether you’re going to dinner around the corner or at The White House, this thing fits in.

iMessage is coming to Windows … kind of

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iMessage and notifications in Phone Link on Windows 11
No blue or green bubbles… iMessage on Windows brings with it gray bubbles.
Screenshot: Windows Insider Blog

People never thought it would happen. People didn’t think it was possible. But in an update to Windows 11, you will be able to send and receive iMessages and manage your notifications through a PC.

This update comes through the Windows Insider program, which offers users prerelease versions of the desktop operating system for beta testing and software development. Microsoft ships updates to Windows annually in the fall, so this feature may arrive for everyone later this year.

These tiny robots are actually a charger and a Bluetooth speaker

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Power your devices with GravaStar Alpha65
This mecha is really a 65W three-port charger for your iPhone, iPad or Mac.
Photo: GravaStar

There’s no reason your USB-C charger has to be dull. Rather than being the usual white or black box, GravaStar’s Alpha65 looks like a miniature robot. But it really is a 65W charger with multiple USB ports.

And the company’s Supernova is both a Bluetooth speaker and a portable lantern even though it looks like a mini mecha.

Transfer files from iPhone, iPad and Mac with this discount flash drive

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Transfer files from iPhone & iPads with this discounted flash drive.
This highly compatible 128GB flash drive is available at more than 20 percent off.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you’re looking for some extra storage space on a smartphone, computer or tablet, this this four-in-one smart flash drive is a quick, easy and affordable options. It comes with four tips — Lightning, USB Type-C, USB 3.0 and micro-USB — so it can work with iPhones, iPads, Macs and other devices.

For a limited time, you can get this 128GB flash drive for only $22.99 (regularly $39) with no coupon. That’s more than 20% off. But if you want one, or several, you only have until midnight PST on March 2 to get this deal.

Get ready for tax season 2023 with this $19.99 bundle

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Get ready for tax season 2023 with this $19.99 bundle.
Complicated taxes? Figure out how deductions and credits work in this $20 bundle.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Tax season is here, and it’s totally normal if you’re stressing about what that means for your finances. Whether you’re filing with dependents for the first time, trying to get education tax credits, figuring out what’s actually deductible, or planning for your retirement, there’s a lot to consider.

But you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. The Ultimate Guide to Taxes Bundle is a comprehensive set of courses that could give you the knowledge to make this the best tax season yet. And it’s only $19.99 until March 2 at 11:59 p.m. PST.

Last chance to save 15% on tough case for Apple Watch Ultra

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Apple Watch Ultra may be tough, but this bumper case makes it even more rugged.
Apple Watch Ultra may be tough, but this bumper case makes it even more rugged.
Photo: Elkson

Everyone knows Apple Watch Ultra is made for the rough stuff — endurance sports, scuba diving, summiting high peaks and the like. However, rugged though it may be, it’s just a smartwatch. It’s not bulletproof. So why not toughen it up with the protective-but-sleek Elkson Quattro Pro 2.0 bumper case?

Better yet, you can get 15% off the case through the end of February in the Cult of Mac Store. Then, the next time you put your Ultra through its paces, you’ll enjoy some extra peace of mind.

Even Roy Kent warms up in Ted Lasso trailer’s love-fest

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Brett Goldstein in “Ted Lasso” season two, now streaming on Apple TV+.
Roy Kent (played by Brett Goldstein) turns over a new leaf in the Ted Lasso season three trailer.
Photo: Apple TV+

The season 3 trailer for hit Apple TV+ comedy Ted Lasso is a total love-fest. Not a lot happens in it. But everyone’s so happy the show is back — if only for one final, fleeting season of humor and hope — that it doesn’t much matter, does it?

Just watch the trailer, which Apple released Monday, and be positive!

Why you should expect to pay more for the next iPad Pro

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Here's more proof iPad will get gorgeous OLED screens
An iPad with a beautiful OLED display seems inevitable at this point. It’s only a question of when.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The OLED screen supposedly coming in the 2024 iPad Pro might push the price up quite a bit. The component reportedly will cost significantly more than the one used in the current version of Apple’s high-end tablet.

If that’s the only change in the next-generation model, it’s going to be hard to justify a price hike. But there are plenty of other modifications Apple could make that would help buyers accept a $100 or more increase in the iPad Pro cost.

US cybersecurity chief thinks Microsoft and Twitter can learn from Apple

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A cybersecurity honcho singled out iCloud for praise in a speech Monday.
A cybersecurity honcho singled out iCloud for praise in a speech Monday.
Photo: Apple

A high-level US cybersecurity official pointed to Apple as an example of a company with good accountability and transparency in its security practices. And she added others — like tech giants Microsoft and Twitter — might learn a thing or two from it.

“Apple is taking ownership for the security outcomes of their users,” said Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Director Jen Easterly in a speech Monday at Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania.

Reports of iPhone SE 4’s death were greatly exaggerated

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iPhone 14
The iPhone SE 4 might look very much like the iPhone 14.
Photo: Apple

Apple plans to release an iPhone SE 4 based heavily on the design of the iPhone 14, according to a new report from a reliable source.

Word that Apple canceled the low-cost handset leaked out recently, but work on the device has supposedly started again.

Pokémon Sleep will gamify your slumber, starting this summer

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Rest your very best! Pokémon Sleep.
Speculation of the game being abandoned has been put to rest.
Image: The Pokémon Company

After a long wait, Pokémon Sleep will finally become a reality this summer. The game will combine sleep tracking with the enduringly popular collect-a-thon game series. And, while the smash-hit mobile game Pokémon Go promotes outdoor exercise, Pokémon Sleep will reward users for getting a full night of shut-eye.

The game, for iPhone and Android devices, is being developed by Japanese game studio Select Button in partnership with Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go.

Elephas app uses AI to take the time and tedium out of writing

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Powered by artificial intelligence, the cross-platform Elephas writing app works seamlessly with apps you already use.
Powered by artificial intelligence, the cross-platform Elephas writing app works seamlessly with apps you already use.
Image: Elephas

People in almost any business must write from time to time, whether they like it or not. But whatever the project — like a marketer’s blog post, a business leader’s executive summary or a developer’s technical use case — there’s a tool out there that makes writing easy and effective.

SPONSORED
This post is brought to you by Elephas.
It’s the Elephas app, which runs on Macs, iPads and iPhones. It’s powered by artificial intelligence, and it works seamlessly with all the apps you already use. Sound like a useful tool? You can try Elephas for free, and get 20% off when you sign up for an annual plan.