Category: News

Hello everyone! This is my inaugural post on the MacRumors forums. I’m here to introduce my Mac application, File Cabinet Pro, after someone suggested that I share it with this community. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

File Cabinet Pro serves as a file manager conveniently accessible from the OS X menubar. It enables users to open, move, rename, compress, tag, trash, and copy files—all from the menu bar, making file management simple and efficient. The application supports numerous file types for opening natively or by launching other applications, and it offers various viewing options, including icon view, list view, and column view. One of the standout features of File Cabinet Pro is its versatility as a document-based application.

It includes a built-in text editor, image viewer, PDF viewer, and media player. The application can handle a range of file types, including plain text files, PDFs, various image formats, and audio/video files, ensuring that you have a comprehensive tool for your file management needs. Some key features of File Cabinet Pro include the ability to create subdirectories for better organization, an innovative drag-and-drop interface with iCloud support, file tagging options, and the functionality to easily view files in Finder. You can also rename, copy, paste, and trash files, as well as preview selected items using Quicklook.

Additional features include automatic app launching upon login, version control for editable files, a global hotkey function, and the ability to share files through supported apps. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your feedback and any questions you may have!

Currently, my favorite apps for productivity are Things 3 and Alfred. However, I’m eager to discover more tools that can enhance my efficiency. I’m curious about what others would recommend. While I don’t consider myself a heavy user, I’ve found that Apple Notes has become an integral part of my routine.

It allows me to jot down ideas seamlessly on my iPhone or iPad whenever inspiration strikes. This feature proves invaluable as I can easily access my notes later and incorporate them into various projects. The syncing capability across all my devices makes it even more convenient. In addition to Apple Notes, I also utilize Obsidian for note-taking.

I appreciate its Markdown support, which facilitates faster writing. Obsidian is packed with features and offers extensive plugin support, allowing me to tailor the app to suit my needs. For those who struggle to remember keyboard shortcuts while using a mouse, I created an app called Dory, which has significantly improved my productivity. I find it to be a handy tool that helps streamline my workflow.

Lastly, I’ve recently started using Antinote for my note-taking needs. It’s been a pleasant experience, adding variety to my note-taking tools. With so many options available, I am constantly exploring different applications to find what best suits my productivity style.

I have a Mac Mini running macOS 15.5, and I’m experiencing an issue with the headphone output. Whenever I wake the computer from standby, the 3.5 mm headphone jack completely stops working. There is no sound coming from the headphones, and when I check the Settings under the Sound section, the headphone output doesn’t appear at all.

Consequently, audio plays through the Mac Mini’s built-in speakers instead. This problem seems to have started after I updated to version 15.5. The only temporary solution I’ve found so far is to reboot the Mac Mini, which restores the headphone output functionality each time.

However, this is quite inconvenient. I’m wondering if there’s a way to resolve this issue without having to restart the computer every time it wakes up. If anyone has suggestions or has experienced similar problems after the update, I would appreciate your advice.

Thank you for your help.

VitoBotta, a user from Espoo, Finland, posted a query recently expressing their need to catch up on new features that have been released. They admitted having overlooked updates and improvements in recent software, which has led to a desire to enhance their productivity. To address this gap in knowledge, VitoBotta has been watching various tutorials. In this context, they are reaching out to the community for tips that can help them work more efficiently.

Specifically, VitoBotta is looking for practical advice regarding features and settings that can boost productivity. This indicates a willingness to learn and adapt to new tools that could facilitate better workflow. The emphasis on community input highlights the collaborative nature of technology users seeking to share and receive insights. With numerous updates across different platforms, it’s common for users to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new tools, which can render them less effective in their tasks.

By engaging others for tips, VitoBotta is opening up a dialogue that could benefit not just themselves but also others who may be in a similar situation. Whether it’s shortcuts, specific applications, or newly introduced functionalities, any advice could prove invaluable for enhancing overall user experience and efficiency.

I recently upgraded my 2018 Mac mini from Ventura to Sequoia. My Mac is well-equipped with a 6-core CPU, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. However, since the update, I’ve experienced significant issues with two processes: `SystemUIServer` and `configd`.

Initially, the issues are subtle after a fresh boot, but over a day or two, the situation worsens. After a few more days, I am plagued with the infamous beachball and a constantly revving fan. The CPU usage of these two processes adds up to 100%, which is a curious “Apple math,” as this represents 100% out of a total of 600%.

What’s perplexing is that they don’t independently reach 100% each; they always seem to be tied together in their misbehavior. My system is relatively clean, with software that I actively use, and there are no signs of malware. I’ve already gone through my LaunchAgents and LaunchDaemons to remove any outdated entries, but this had no effect.

I sought help on the Apple forum, but their only suggestion was to wipe my system and start over, which seems unreasonable. The first two diagnostic steps would be to A) perform a clean install of Sequoia on a USB SSD to see if the problem persists, and B) create a new user profile and check if the same issue occurs. However, as it takes a day or two to manifest, these steps would be highly inconvenient for me.

I also have three monitors connected and utilize seven different virtual desktops, resulting in a total of 21 virtual displays. I wonder if there might be a bug relating to multiple displays that affects performance, which many users wouldn’t encounter. Since this is my primary device, it would be challenging to limit its functionality for several days to troubleshoot effectively.

I welcome any suggestions or insights on this issue.

Intel iMacs were sold until March 2022, and there is speculation about how long they will continue to receive software support. While there may not be a specific law mandating that the latest software be available for these devices, consumer laws in regions like the EU and UK require Apple to provide repair services for about five to six years following the last sale. This implies that Apple should maintain a supported operating system for that duration, even if it does not include the latest features. There is concern that dropping support for Intel-based Macs could pose challenges, especially if it means customers could become locked out of essential services and updates.

Apple could theoretically reduce the support timeframe from the norm of 14 years down to five years. To do so, they would need to ensure that the last version of macOS that supports Intel retains backward compatibility with current peripherals and services. Some believe that Apple will likely continue offering support for Intel Macs until at least two years after their last sale. Given this, the general consensus is that we won’t see Intel support drop until at least macOS 17.

Despite this, Apple retains the option to adopt a long-term support policy for these devices, which could prove beneficial. It is worth noting that the most recent macOS releases have limited many new features to Apple Silicon Macs. Because of this trend, the idea of a long-term support version for the last compatible Intel version could be valuable, as it would provide users with continued access to necessary capabilities without being forced to upgrade hardware.

I’m in need of a new computer soon, and the M4 Mac Mini seems like a great deal that matches my requirements. However, opting for the maximum RAM significantly raises the cost, making it less of an immediate purchase for me. I often wonder how many users with 16GB of RAM actually regret their decision on a daily basis. My workflow involves extensive browsing, with multiple Chrome tabs open alongside several other browsers—usually around five or six—while I conduct my research.

Additionally, I am involved in 3D printing and am currently learning various CAD programs. While I can delay a major upgrade for a few months, I’m curious about the performance of the default RAM configuration in the meantime. Is the base RAM sufficient for handling everyday tasks like browsing and managing multiple tabs, or does it mainly struggle with heavy applications? I’d like to know if the typical user experiences slowdowns with just basic activities or if it’s only when pushing the system with demanding software that they notice any lag.

Understanding the trade-offs will help me make a more informed decision regarding my investment in the M4 Mac Mini.

My wife’s laptop has developed an issue, leading to blurry text and images, reminiscent of a vintage monitor. This problem seemed to arise suddenly and has been quite troubling.

If you’re considering fixing it yourself, the cost could range between $350 and $450, as this involves replacing the entire top cover. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful resources available on sites like YouTube.

For professional repair services, you might expect to pay even more—closer to $600. If you decide to purchase a new laptop, don’t discard the old one.

Refurbishers often seek broken machines for spare parts. It might be worth resetting the device and selling it.

I recently completed a trade-in for an M1 Air 2020 model with a cracked screen and received $151 for it. Please keep us updated on the results and the associated costs.

Also, it would be helpful to know whether the screen issue persists when the laptop lid is at a normal angle or if adjusting the lid temporarily resolves the problem. I’ve encountered a similar issue with my M1 MacBook Air, which has worsened over the past few days.

I’ve sent it for diagnostics, and interestingly, the screen has intermittently returned to normal function. The diagnostics report indicated extensive issues, totaling about £1100.

It included a failing storage drive, a damaged display, and problems with the IO board, with the battery also showing signs of failure. Unfortunately, Apple’s policy is to only offer complete repairs, which leaves me with the option of pursuing a third-party screen repair.

After taking great care of the laptop since its launch, it’s frustrating to face such a significant repair bill. At this point, exploring third-party alternatives seems to be my best option.

My signature reveals that I own a 2017 MacBook Pro. It still meets my needs, but recently I noticed an issue with the battery—it has started swelling. This occurs during charging, but the battery returns to normal once it stops charging. Interestingly, this is not the original battery; it is a replacement that I had installed by Apple a few years back.

For now, I plan to continue using this laptop, as I believe that funds for a battery replacement are better allocated toward a new laptop instead. This situation has led me to consider whether there have been significant advancements in Mac laptop battery technology since 2017. I am eyeing a transition to a MacBook Air, but the timing of that switch largely depends on the condition of the swollen battery. I can’t help but wonder if Apple has made strides in addressing the issues surrounding swollen lithium-ion batteries.

It’s certainly frustrating to deal with this problem. Currently, the swelling slightly hinders the functionality of the trackpad button. Despite the inconvenience, I aim to prolong the life of my current device. However, the growing concerns about the battery’s condition make me rethink the practicality of waiting for a full replacement.

As I look forward to a new MacBook Air, I’m hopeful that future models will feature improved battery technology that minimizes or eliminates such issues.

I am experiencing issues with Bluetooth headphones on my MacBook Pro running Catalina. Despite testing multiple pairs of headphones, the sound quality is consistently poor, characterized by choppy audio that makes it difficult to comprehend anything.

Moreover, the headphones frequently disconnect from the computer for reasons that remain unclear. Notably, these same earbuds connect and function properly with my iPhone SE (2016), which suggests the problem lies with the MacBook.

I have tried the following headphones with varying audio codecs:

1. Wicked Audio Embr – Audio codec: SCO
– Sound quality: Very choppy and can-like, but somewhat intelligible.

2. Apple AirPods – Audio codec: AAC
– Sound quality: Choppy and unintelligible.

3. Sony WF-1000XM4 – Audio codec: AAC
– Sound quality: Choppy and unintelligible.

Interestingly, I also face connectivity issues with my wireless keyboard and mouse. They tend to disconnect frequently, even when their batteries are fully charged and they have a strong signal.

Given these recurring problems, it appears that the source of the issues may be the MacBook itself. I am seeking advice on how to troubleshoot and potentially resolve these Bluetooth connectivity problems.

What steps should I take next to identify and fix the issue?