Category: Apple

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has outlined an extensive roadmap for the company’s Vision and smart glasses plans, projected through the end of the decade. The roadmap reveals that Apple is developing at least seven projects, which include three “Vision” devices and four smart glasses products.

Among these, five have confirmed timelines while two are still pending confirmation. In 2025, Apple plans to release the Apple Vision Pro (M5), a refreshed version of the first-generation device equipped with an M5 chip.

This update will not introduce major changes and aims to maintain market presence with an expected production run of 150,000 to 200,000 units, marking its status as a niche product. The year 2026 will see no new releases, but in 2027, Apple intends to launch its first smart glasses, offering a customizable design similar to Meta Ray-Bans.

This product will feature voice control and gesture recognition but will not include a display. Instead, it will focus on audio playback, photography, and AI-driven features.

Apple anticipates shipping between three to five million units during its launch year. Additionally, the Apple Vision Air will provide a lighter design with significant weight reduction and a lower price point, beginning production in the third quarter of 2027.

Looking ahead to 2028, the second-generation Apple Vision Pro is expected to debut with a new design and advanced processing power at a competitive price. It will be produced alongside the Apple XR Glasses, which will incorporate a color display and enhanced AI capabilities.

Finally, in 2029 and beyond, Apple may introduce a second variant of the XR glasses. There is also a paused project for a display accessory that was originally set for production in 2026 but currently faces a reassessment for its market potential.

Despite challenges with AI integration, Kuo believes Apple is well-positioned to capitalize on its hardware capabilities and ecosystem integration in the competitive landscape of smart glasses.

I want to replace my iPhone 13 battery, and the cost is USD 89, which I’m okay with. However, I have a concern about verifying whether they actually installed a new battery when I get my phone back.

The key data I would like to check is the cycle count, which only iPhone 15 models and newer can display. Unfortunately, I haven’t found any reliable apps available for download that can provide this information.

Ideally, I would prefer to find something on the App Store, but I haven’t had any luck so far. As a last resort, I could bring my laptop and use COCONUT BATTERY to check the battery’s health and cycle count.

My concern is whether the Genius at the store would have an issue with my method of verification. I’m curious about how others have handled similar situations.

For the amount of USD 90, I want to ensure I’m not handing over my money without receiving the service I’m expecting. What measures would you take to confirm that a new battery has been installed?

It’s important for me to protect my investment and ensure that I receive a genuine replacement. I’m willing to go the extra mile to verify the work done, but I’m also worried about how my approach might be perceived in a store setting.

Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated.

I have to admit that I’m genuinely pleased with my Apple products. From my initial iMac to the Mac Studio and Studio Display I currently use, my experience has been very positive. The iPad is the only device for which I’ve stood in line on launch day, and it has been a constant companion since. Transitioning to the iPhone felt like a natural step, and my Apple Watch Ultra, which replaced my Garmin, has become an essential part of my daily routine.

The Apple TV serves as my primary streaming device, nicely complemented by HomePod minis. Do I believe everything is perfect? Absolutely not. However, I recognize that no ecosystem is flawless.

What matters to me is how these devices interact and share data in a way that aligns with my needs. While I have encountered some bumps during updates and tech hiccups, I acknowledge those are part of the experience. Yes, these products can be pricey, but I have found that each Mac typically lasts between eight to nine years before needing replacement. One frustrating aspect for me is my HomeKit devices.

They often work flawlessly for weeks, only to suddenly exhibit erratic behavior. I still haven’t pinpointed whether the problem lies with the devices themselves or with HomeKit, but I’m committed to finding a resolution. Nonetheless, I don’t let these occasional issues overshadow my overall satisfaction. In general, I am content with my Apple products.

For now, I see no reason to switch, as they all serve my needs well. I apologize for this somewhat self-indulgent post, but I felt compelled to share some positivity. Wishing everyone a wonderful day! If you have a different opinion, that is completely okay—we can all have our own views.

I recently updated to iOS 18, and I’m encountering a persistent notification on my lock screen. When I’m watching a video on Apple TV, a notification prompts me to access the Apple TV remote. After tapping on it, the Apple TV controls appear. However, I find this notification quite bothersome and would like to know how to disable it.

Additionally, I occasionally use the remote function for Apple TV, but only about twice a year. If I want to switch from controlling the Apple TV back to managing my iPhone’s media, what is the quickest way to do so with minimal taps? To address the first issue, the notification that appears on your lock screen can usually be disabled in your iPhone’s settings. Navigate to Settings, then go to Notifications.

Look for the Apple TV Remote within the list and turn off notifications. For your second concern, if you are using the remote function and wish to return to controlling your iPhone’s media, you can simply swipe down from the upper-right corner of the iPhone screen to access the Control Center. From there, if you tap on the media controls, you can cease controlling the Apple TV. Just ensure you’re not actively using the Apple TV remote at that moment, or it may still try to take precedence.

These steps should provide you with a smoother experience as you manage your media across devices.

CarPlay Ultra offers enhanced integration with a vehicle’s instrument cluster and systems, and includes built-in apps for radio and climate control. The interface is specifically designed to align with each automaker’s branding and allows drivers to customize the color scheme to their liking. As of now, CarPlay Ultra is available in newly-ordered Aston Martin models in the U.S. and Canada, with plans to roll out in select existing models via software updates.

Fortunately, this advanced system will also be accessible in more affordable vehicles in the future. Many automakers worldwide are looking to incorporate CarPlay Ultra within the next year, as announced by Apple. The feature was first previewed at WWDC 2022, where Apple shared a list of committed partners.

However, given that the list is nearly three years old, it may not fully reflect the current market scenario. In other news, Chase recently introduced new benefits for its premium Sapphire Reserve credit card, which now includes complimentary annual subscriptions to Apple TV+ and Apple Music, totaling a value of up to $250 per year. This means if you’re already subscribed to these platforms through Apple, you may be covered in a different way.

Meanwhile, Apple hasn’t updated the AirPods Pro since 2022, and speculation surrounding a potential refresh is growing. Several hints in Apple’s code suggest that new features are on the way, making an upgrade worthwhile for fans. Additionally, rumors regarding Apple’s foldable iPhone are circulating, particularly about its camera capabilities.

The next-generation iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, expected to launch soon, are also generating buzz with significant design changes anticipated. As Apple prepares to unveil their upcoming devices, including the Apple Watch Ultra 3, the future looks bright for technology enthusiasts.

Amazon is currently offering significant discounts on the Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch SE, including both GPS and cellular models. Many of these deals are also matched at Best Buy, making it a great opportunity for anyone looking to purchase an Apple Watch.

If you’re in the market for bands, consider checking out Woot’s extensive sale on Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop bands. For the Apple Watch Series 10, the 42mm GPS model is available for $299, reduced from $399.

Similarly, the 46mm GPS version is priced at $329, down from $429. These are record-low prices for these models, with a variety of case colors and band styles available.

Regarding the Apple Watch SE, Amazon has slashed the price of the 40mm GPS version to $169, down from $249, which is the lowest price tracked so far in 2025. This model comes in popular colors like Starlight, Silver, and Midnight Aluminum.

The 44mm GPS Apple Watch SE is being offered for $199, reduced from $279, and is also available in multiple colors and band sizes. If you’re intrigued by more discounts, be sure to check out our Apple Deals roundup, where we compile the best Apple-related bargains from the past week.

Additionally, if you want to stay informed about the latest deals throughout 2025, consider signing up for our Deals Newsletter to receive updates on the most significant offers of the season. Note: MacRumors may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through links in this post.

Apple recently announced that 13 additional automakers will soon offer the iPhone car key feature, which allows users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles via the iPhone or Apple Watch. This feature, first introduced in 2020, is already available in select models from brands such as Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. With the upcoming inclusion of new brands, the functionality is set for significant expansion. During the WWDC 2025 keynote, Apple revealed that the new brands joining the iPhone car key program include Acura, Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Porsche, Rivian, Smart, Lucid Motors, Tata Motors, Hongqi, WEY, Chery, and Voyah.

However, Apple did not specify an exact timeline for the rollout of these updates, leaving eager customers waiting for further information. While Apple maintains a webpage listing vehicle models that support the iPhone car keys, it has not been updated recently and may not reflect the latest additions, creating a need for potential users to seek more current information. In addition to the iPhone car keys, Apple is making headlines with various developments in its product lineup. Analysts are predicting the upcoming release of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the Series 11 versions later this year.

Meanwhile, Chase has announced new perks for its Sapphire Reserve credit card, including complimentary subscriptions to Apple TV+ and Apple Music. Apple is also facing challenges with its CarPlay Ultra software, with several automakers re-evaluating their commitment to the upgraded dashboard system. Meanwhile, rumors are swirling around the anticipated foldable iPhone, expected to be released next year, and updates to the AirPods Pro, reaffirming Apple’s focus on innovation and user experience.

Hello everyone,

Has anyone here used the iPhone 16 Pro Max, paired with an ESR phone case that features a built-in camera control button? I’ve recently encountered a minor issue that I’d like to discuss. After removing my case, I noticed some round markings resembling small clear bubbles on the camera control button of my iPhone 16 Pro Max.

While they are not very noticeable, I find it frustrating that I can’t seem to clean or erase them. I’m reaching out to see if anyone else has experienced something similar. If you have encountered this issue, I’d appreciate any advice or tips on how to remove these markings.

Perhaps there’s a specific cleaning method or product that could help eliminate these blemishes without causing damage to the device? Thank you in advance for any insights or suggestions you may have on this topic!

I’m excited to introduce Desktop Ghost Pro 2.0, a Mac utility designed to give you a perfectly clean desktop instantly. This latest version represents a complete redesign tailored for modern macOS. With Desktop Ghost Pro, you can effortlessly hide your desktop with just a single click or a convenient keyboard shortcut. The new version, however, elevates the experience with support for Apple’s Shortcuts, making it simpler than ever to create automated, distraction-free workflows.

The top features of Desktop Ghost Pro 2.0 include the ability to instantly hide and reveal all files on your desktop. You can choose to run the application as a menu bar app or a dock application, depending on your preference. Additionally, the integrated Finder extension allows you to hide and show your desktop files directly from Finder. For more control, you can exclude specific files or folders from being hidden, ensuring you always have access to the files you need.

Even when your desktop is clean, you can still access your hidden files through the “View Desktop Files” window. Importantly, Desktop Ghost Pro now comes equipped with full support for Siri and the Shortcuts app via custom intents, enabling you to automate clean-up tasks, build Focus automations, and much more. If you have any questions, feature requests, or feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Hello everyone, I find myself in a bit of a dilemma with my MacBook Pro M3 Pro, which I purchased last July for approximately $2,099. Unfortunately, less than a year later, I’ve noticed a small dent on the screen, about the size of a needle tip. When I took it to the Apple Store, I was informed that this damage is not covered by the limited warranty. They did provide a potential solution: I can enroll in AppleCare+ for three years at around $300, which would then allow me to fix the screen for an additional $135.

This brings my total to about $435. However, I should mention that the monthly payment option for AppleCare+ is not available in my region. I plan to sell this laptop in 1 to 2 years, with hopes to upgrade to either an M6 or M7 model, depending on the release. Given the situation, I’m uncertain whether it’s worth spending the $435 to repair the dent now, potentially improving the resale value.

Alternatively, I could choose to accept the dent and sell the laptop in its current condition. A key question for me is whether the dent would actually diminish the resale value by $435 or more. If the impact on value is less significant, I might opt to keep it as is until the sale. I would greatly appreciate hearing your thoughts or any experiences you may have with resale values in similar situations.

Thank you!