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Top stories - page 39

Get free shipping on a $20 cable that can connect to almost anything

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During our version of Prime Day, get free shipping on a $20 cable that can connect to almost anything.
Don't delay until Prime Day. You can get this 5-foot, 6-in-1 cable for $20 now.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you carry multiple devices you need to charge throughout the day, the cable struggle can be a lot to deal with. However, if you pack the right cable, you’ll only need one for your iPhone, iPad, MacBook and other tech.

The InCharge X Max is a 5-foot cable with folding ends that can connect to Lightning, USB-C, USB-A and micro USB ports. And you don’t have to wait for Prime Day to get it for a low price. Through July 14 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific, you can get one of these all-in-one cables for only $19.97 instead of $39.

5 fun iPhone games that won’t spam, scam or screw you

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Games on iPhone
There’s a bunch of fun games on iPhone… if you know where to look.
Image: D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac

So many games on the App Store are thinly veiled vessels for sucking away your money through in-app purchases, a problem that Apple is both the cause of and solution to. Today, I’m going to give you my five favorite non-spammy games for iPhone. They’re all highly addictive time-killers.

All of these games are devoid of manipulative game mechanics, pay-to-win schemes and scummy in-app purchases. They’re all free, included in a $4.99-a-month Apple Arcade subscription, or very cheap to buy. I don’t make a lot of time to play video games, so I’m certainly not going to waste time on a game that doesn’t respect me as a player.

Jace faces troubles old and new in Swagger [Apple TV+ recap] ★★★★

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O’Shea Jackson Jr., Shannon Brown, Caleel Harris, James Bingham and Isaiah Hill in ★★★★
Like the players it follows, Swagger just keeps scoring.
Photo: Apple TV+

TV+ ReviewApple TV+ sports drama Swagger finds Jace preparing for a big birthday this week. He’s dealing with obstacles he sees — and bracing to be blindsided by some he can’t.

An estranged dad, an old adversary, a new teammate and coach Ike (who’s looking to Jace to secure his future) all conspire to keep the young basketball star from his A game. But for Jace, there’s always a way through. And this week’s excellent episode, entitled “18,” is a potent reminder of that.

Don’t wait for Prime Day to get the lowest price ever on this portable power station

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Don't wait for Prime Day to get the lowest price ever on this portable power station.
Shipping is free on the EcoFlow Delta Power Station, now the lowest price ever during our version of Prime Day.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Going camping doesn’t mean you can’t bring some of the comforts of everyday life into the great outdoors. If you want to stay connected on your iPhone or host a cozy MacBook movie night in your tent, make sure you can keep everything charged with a reliable portable power station.

The EcoFlow Delta can power small electronics and midsize appliances, and you can get it now at its lowest price ever. During our version of Prime Day, the EcoFlow Delta portable power station costs just $798.99. That’s $600 off the usual price of $1,399. Plus, with this deal, you also get free shipping.

However, this big price drop only lasts until July 14 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific!

Rya is ready for her close-up in The Crowded Room [Apple TV+ recap] ★★★☆☆

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Amanda Seyfried in ★★★☆☆
This week's episode of The Crowded Room finally focuses on criminologist Rya (played by Amanda Seyfried).
Photo: Apple TV+

TV+ ReviewCriminologist Rya Goodwin takes center stage in this week’s episode of Apple TV+ drama The Crowded Room. She discovers that the way around the many dead-ends in her life is to crack the case of Danny Sullivan, the man who opened fire in a crowded Manhattan street, and the many personalities living in his head who drove him to murder and mayhem.

Entitled “Rya,” it’s an above-average outing of this oft-frustrating show.

Casetify accessories will give Vision Pro a colorful makeover

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Casetify's Bounce Vision lineup of accessories for Vision Pro will feature a range of colors and textures.
Casetify's Bounce Vision lineup of accessories for Vision Pro will feature a range of colors and textures.
Photo: Casetify

We know not to expect Vision Pro to go on sale until early next year, yet accessories for the AR/VR headset unveiled at WWDC23 are starting to show up already.

Phone case maker Casetify previewed a lineup called Bounce Vision Friday.

Powerhouse MacBook Pro drives 2 Studio Displays with 1 cable [Setups]

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A powerful new MacBook Pro and two Studio Displays make the most of this attractive setup.
A powerful new MacBook Pro and two Studio Displays make the most of this attractive setup.
Photo: [email protected]

A top question folks have when they put together a computers setup is, “how simply can I connect everything?” How little hardware and how few cables can I get away with?

Today’s featured M2 Max MacBook Pro setup makes things easy by driving two beautiful Studio Displays with one cable via one of the best docks on the market. And don’t miss the great-yet-affordable speakers and cool podcasting gear, either.

MagGo grip does triple duty for iPhone [Review] ★★★★

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Slap the Anker 620 MagGo Phone Grip on any metal surface and it becomes a mount for your MagSafe iPhone.★★★★
Slap the Anker 620 MagGo Phone Grip on any metal surface and it becomes a mount for your MagSafe iPhone.
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac

Anker’s recently released 620 MagGo Phone Grip is one of those simple products that just does what it says it does. It’s not any sort of big, fancy deal. It’s just good. And what it does so well is help you mount, carry or prop up your MagSafe iPhone in lots of convenient places.

The small grip, which looks sort of like an oversized pretend wristwatch, is a good get for $20, too. The company sent me one to try out.

Big sci-fi Invasion resumes with season 2 in August

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Ready for more alien attacks? Apple TV+ sci-fi series
Ready for more alien attacks? Apple TV+ sci-fi series "Invasion" returns with season 2 on August 23.
Photo: Apple

Providing a first-look image (above), Apple TV+ said Friday its expansive sci-fi series Invasion will return for season 2 before the end of the summer.

Aliens resume battling humans on August 23. Are you ready?

Grab a tiny Apple Watch charger keychain for less than $15

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Never lose a charge again with this Apple Watch charger keychain, less than $15 during our version of Prime Day.
Save on this top-rated portable Apple Watch charger ahead of Prime Day.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

If you’ve ever been left with a low Apple Watch battery or had to carry the dedicated charger on your commute or travels, you know the one downside of your trusty smartwatch is keeping it charged. But with this portable Apple Watch charger, you’ll always have the power you need, no matter where you are.

Usually $49.95, you can grab it on sale for just $14.97 during our version of Prime Day — no coupon needed. Oh, and you’ll even score free shipping on it, too. You’ll have to act fast, though. This incredible deal only lasts until July 14 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific!

Disinfect your desktop with this new UV-C LED light

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The Targus UV-C LED Disinfection Light sanitizes your desktop.
The Targus UV-C LED Disinfection Light sanitizes your desktop.
Photo: Targus

Laptop case maker Targus rolled out its UV-C LED Disinfection Light for sale Friday. The CES Innovation Awards Honoree is a no-touch way to reduce pathogens on desktop devices.

Its UV-C Light technology breaks down DNA of microorganisms crawling all over your keyboard and other gadgets.

It’s do or die time for Juliette in the Silo season one finale [Apple TV+ recap] ★★★★☆

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Rebecca Ferguson in ★★★★☆
Sheriff Juliette (played by Rebecca Ferguson) heads for a showdown with the powers that be in the Silo season one finale.
Photo: Apple TV+

TV+ ReviewIn the Silo season finale, Juliette has been found out and has only minutes to prove her innocence — and the government’s guilt — before she’s caught and punished. Of course, nothing is ever that easy in the hit Apple TV+ sci-fi series.

Bernard and Sims panic at the idea of losing their grip on the seat of power. And the people Juliette knows and loves worry for her safety. The episode, entitled “Outside,” asks the question: Can you fight city hall miles underground?

These earbuds translate 37 languages on the fly

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These earbuds know 37+ languages, and they're only $89.97 for a few days more.
Don't wait for Prime Day to get a pair of translation earbuds for less than $100.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Traveling is exciting, but if you don’t speak the local language, it can be hard to connect with others, find the best local spots or simply ask for directions. Translation apps are an option, but they’re not the best one. You could wait for Prime Day to find a fancy smart translator, or you could pick one up during an earlier sale right here.

During our version of Prime Day, you can get a pair of Mymanu Clik S Translation Earbuds on sale for only $89.97, no coupon needed. But hurry, since this incredible deal only lasts through July 14!

Belkin makes the USB-C hub we’ve been waiting for [Review] ★★★★

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Belkin makes the USB-C hub we’ve been waiting for [Review]★★★★
Belkin’s affordable USB-C hub offers four high-speed ports and can charge your devices, too.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The Belkin Connect 4-Port USB-C Hub seems like a simple product, but it’s something we’ve had to wait years to finally get. It’s a simple, inexpensive hub that turns one USB-C port into four that can provide high-speed data transfers while also powering a MacBook or iPad.

I put the device to the test in my home office. I lives up to just about all my expectations. Here’s why.

Win this brilliant bundle from Function101 to whip your desk into shape [Cult of Mac giveaway]

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Other desk mats simply aren't as qualified as this one for certain jobs.
Other desk mats simply aren't as qualified as this one for certain jobs.
Photo: Function101

In this week’s giveaway, two lucky winners will bag themselves a magnetic Desk Mat Pro with two Cable Block XL cable managers from Function101. This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to tidy up their desk and ensure wires are secure and easily accessible.

This superb Function101 Desk Mat Pro bundle comes in four colors: black, gray, navy and purple. This desktop-organization bundle retails for $60, and you could win one with your free entry below. However, you also can grab this bundle for the sale price of $48 in the Cult of Mac Store right now.

Want to torture telemarketers? Sic an AI phone bot on ’em.

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The phone bot talks to telemarketers so humans don't have to.
The phone bot talks to telemarketers so humans don't have to.
Photo: Mart [email protected]

People don’t answer the phone as much they used to, especially because they can usually see who’s calling. But if you have a history of hating telemarketers’ tenacious harassment, now you can get some payback.

A new report points out you can hire a phone bot that uses artificial intelligence and voice cloning to keep those unwanted callers tied up until they give up and hang up.

Brilliant origami case/stand raises iPad to eye level [Updated review] ★★★★

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Moft Snap Float Folio review★★★★
The Moft Snap Float Folio can be folded into a stand that holds an iPad screen 4 inches above your desk.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

iPad cases that act as stands to prop up the tablet’s screen are old news. But the Moft Snap Float Folio takes the concept to a new level… literally. It can be folded to raise the iPad up to 3.8 inches so it’s easier to see. If that’s not enough, the case/stand also folds into multiple other configurations to allow the iPad to be used in different ways.

The product first launched in 2022, then recently updated it with stronger magnets for a better hold on the tablet. It’s also a bit more robust.

I wrapped my iPad Pro in the Moft’s new-and-improved case to see how easy it is to use, and how stable when used as a stand. I came away impressed.

Charlie’s getting very suspicious about Sylvia and Will on Platonic [Apple TV+ recap] ★★★★☆

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Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen in ★★★★☆
Sylvia (played by Rose Byrne, left) and Will (Seth Rogen) head to San Diego this week on a business trip.
Photo: Apple TV+

TV+ ReviewApple TV+ comedy Platonic takes a trip to San Diego this week, as Sylvia’s husband Charlie gets paranoid and Will gets a lesson in corporate culture that he didn’t ask for.

In this very good episode of the show — about married Sylvia and divorced Will, who return to the best-friend slot in each other’s lives after an awkward absence — Charlie looks into every little thing, wondering if the pair are more than just friends. Will comes to Sylvia’s rescue at the expense of his friends and business partners, and Sylvia must be honest about the next phase of her life.

New high-end Beats Studio Pro headphones are coming soon

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Beats Studio Pro may look a lot like Beats Studio3, but come packed with much-needed upgrades.
Beats Studio Pro may look a lot like Beats Studio3, but come packed with much-needed upgrades.
Photo: Beats

Apple will release the new Beats Studio Pro over-ear headphones July 19, according to the same anonymous source who correctly predicted the recent release of Beats Studio Buds+.

The new cans are expected to have high-end features a la AirPods Max, like Beats’ latest active noise cancellation (ANC), and to come in four colors.

Razer’s first in-ear monitors give gamers THX-certified sound

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Razer Moray In-Ear Monitors
Razer Moray wired in-ear monitors are designed for marathon gaming and streaming sessions.
Photo: Razer

Razer, known for gaming gear, sounded off Tuesday with its first in-ear monitors (IEM) — Razer Moray.

Designed for gamers and streamers, the new wired earbuds emphasize THX-certified audio, natural noise isolation and lightweight comfort for long gaming and streaming sessions, the company said.

Designer calls in M2 Ultra Mac Studio to handle CG renders [Setups]

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That M1 Max Mac Studio is about to get replaced for not quite handling renders.
That M1 Max Mac Studio is about to get replaced for not quite handling renders.
Photo: [email protected]

It seemed only yesterday M1 Max Mac Studio showed up as the new powerhouse in town, ready to take on all tasks. But in today’s featured setup, it’s on the chopping block for failing to handle heavy-duty rendering work for animated films well enough. The designer running the setup eagerly awaits an M2 Ultra Mac Studio.

Meanwhile, he uses Universal Control to pair his powerful desktop with an M1 iMac for basic tasks and relies on massive amounts of external storage for his humongous files.

Get organized with Function101 accessories at 20% off

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You can use the BentoStack to neatly store you Apple accessories (and charge them).
You can use the BentoStack to neatly store you Apple accessories (and charge them).
Photo: Function101

Do you ever feel like you could be neater and less disorganized? Some of us always feel like that. But plenty of tools exist to help you get organized, like the Function101 accessories listed for 20% this week in the Cult of Mac Store.

You can find 10 helpful items in the Function101 collection, from desktop organizers to cable-management must-haves. See some highlights of the sale below. The sale runs through July 5.

Idris Elba plays it unnervingly cool in new thriller Hijack [Apple TV+ recap] ★★★☆☆

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Episode 1. Idris Elba in ★★★☆☆
Seemingly nothing can rattle negotiator Sam Nelson (played by Idris Elba) in Hijack.
Photo: Apple TV+

TV+ ReviewNew Apple TV+ limited series Hijack stars Idris Elba as a man caught in an explosive hostage situation in the sky. Elba plays a corporate negotiator on one of the worst days of his life, as armed terrorists seize the airplane he’s flying on from Dubai to London.

He has six hours to foil their plan — and possibly save his marriage. Can he pull off one or the other, or both? And more importantly, will it be thrilling? Time will tell…

This $25 travel eSIM comes with $50 worth of international data

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Cut travel costs with this eSIM and $50 worth of data for just $25.
Pay just $25 and get a lifetime eSIM and $50 worth of data for your next trip.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Globetrotters know the struggle of preparing for an international trip. Packing bags and booking flights and hotels is stressful enough without worrying about the always-dreaded SIM card purchase.

For your next trip, consider trying an eSIM card instead. For instance, you can snag a digital SIM card for life, plus $50 worth of data, for only $24.99 (regularly $50) with this offer.

Get a minimalist LED corner floor lamp for a fraction of the normal price

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Pick up this minimalist LED corner floor lamp for a fraction of the cost during our version of Prime Day.
Don't miss major savings on this sleek LED corner floor lamp that fits all kinds of settings.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Maximizing your office or living space can be tricky if you’re working with a relatively small area, so upgraded efficiency is key. You can currently find it, along with a reduced price tag, in the form of a versatile lighting fixture that takes up very little room but will have a big impact on your environment.

Usually sold for $149, the Lamp Depot Minimalist LED Corner Floor Lamp is available for only $55.97 during our version of Prime Day. You can get the best-ever pricing on this product — but only through July 14 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific.