Category: Apple

I’ve been experiencing issues with my setup lately, despite using the same HDMI cables for years without any problems. Recently, I’ve encountered strange video glitches and errors in certain apps, particularly with Disney+ and DirecTV. When trying to watch something on Disney+, the app displays an error indicating that there is an “HDCP issue.”

On the other hand, DirecTV sometimes shows a pixelated screen, followed by an error message stating that the video cannot be played. These glitches can often be resolved by simply restarting the device, but it’s becoming a frustratingly common occurrence. Regarding possible solutions, I anticipate that some may suggest my HDMI cables could be the problem.

However, I am currently using a Monoprice 4K certified high-speed HDMI cable that supports 4K at 60Hz with an 18 Gbps bandwidth. This cable is designed for high-quality video transmission, which makes the issues I’m facing even more perplexing. Given the troubleshooting steps I’ve taken, I’m interested in hearing any suggestions or insights that could help me resolve these issues.

Are there specific settings within the apps or my device that could be affecting performance? I appreciate any recommendations that might address the problems I’m encountering with both Disney+ and DirecTV.

Hello everyone! I’m wondering if anyone else has encountered a similar issue. Recently, while changing my Apple Watch Sport Loop band, I discovered a small chip near the lug area of my watch.

It’s noticeable to the touch and even feels a bit sharp. Although I understand that this type of damage might just be normal wear and tear, it has piqued my curiosity. Thankfully, it doesn’t impact the watch’s functionality, and I still love using it!

I would appreciate hearing from anyone who may have experienced something similar with their Apple Watches. For reference, this is occurring on my Apple Watch SE (2nd generation). I’m interested in knowing if this is a common concern among other users.

When experiencing heightened anxiety, it is common for individuals to notice an increase in heart rate, perspiration, and body temperature. These physiological responses can significantly impact one’s ability to cope with stressful situations. The Apple Watch has capabilities that might be utilized to monitor these indicators of anxiety.

For instance, it can track changes in heart rate and possibly detect variations in body temperature. By leveraging these features, the device could potentially alert users when their stress levels are elevated. Imagine if the Apple Watch could not only measure these responses but also suggest calming breathing exercises in real-time.

This proactive approach could empower users to manage their anxiety more effectively. By guiding them through specific breathing techniques, the watch could help users regain a sense of calm and control. The potential benefits of such a feature are significant.

Many people struggle with anxiety and often seek immediate strategies to alleviate their symptoms. A device that monitors physiological responses and provides tailored suggestions for calming exercises could be a valuable resource in those moments of distress. What do you think about this idea?

Integrating calming exercises with real-time monitoring could enhance the wellness aspect of wearable technology. It would represent a step forward in personal health management, offering support when it’s needed most. Such innovations could change how individuals interact with their mental health and stress management, making it more accessible and personalized.

I am excited to share that I have developed my second app, QuakeNotch. This innovative application enhances the functionality of the MacBook’s notch by providing users with a feature-rich Quake Terminal and seamless Apple Music integration. Alongside these core offerings, QuakeNotch includes some additional, unique features that add to its appeal. QuakeNotch is designed to optimize your workflow by utilizing the notch space efficiently.

Users can take advantage of the Quake Terminal, which offers a streamlined command-line experience, making it easier to run scripts, manage files, and access system functionalities quickly. The integration with Apple Music allows users to control their music without leaving their primary tasks, enhancing productivity and entertainment in one package. For those interested in elevating their MacBook experience, QuakeNotch is available for download. You can try it out and explore its features, and if you find it beneficial, you have the option to purchase it for continued use.

Additionally, I recommend checking out MacsyZones, a unique macOS window manager similar in functionality to FancyZones. This tool provides an intuitive way to organize and manage your windows efficiently. In conclusion, both QuakeNotch and MacsyZones are designed to improve your productivity and enhance your overall user experience on macOS. Whether you are a developer, musician, or multitasker, these applications have something to offer everyone.

I am thrilled to bring these tools to the Mac community.

Epic Games has expressed criticism regarding the measures being considered by the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) against Apple and Google. The game developer believes these measures may hinder the possibility of bringing Fortnite back to the iOS App Store in the UK.

The CMA has indicated it will grant Apple and Google “strategic market status” under new digital competition laws, allowing it to oversee the operation of both the App Store and Play Store. However, the CMA’s attention appears to be on addressing Apple’s anti-steering rules and its app review processes, rather than requiring the company to facilitate sideloading through alternative app stores.

This focus is precisely where Epic Games expresses its concerns. Epic Games has stated that the revival of Fortnite on iOS in the UK is now uncertain, citing that they will not be able to introduce the Epic Games Store to the platform this year due to the CMA’s priorities.

The company further argues that any new anti-steering regulations will result in “years of malicious compliance” from Apple. Epic accuses Apple of employing “restrictions, obstructions, and junk fees” in Europe, effectively undermining the objectives of the Digital Markets Act.

Epic emphasizes the necessity of competition amongst app stores to foster a free market that benefits both consumers and creators. In the absence of competing stores, they warn, a state-sanctioned monopoly could exploit its control, hindering fair price competition and reducing options for consumers.

The CMA currently does not intend to address the issue of store competition until 2026, which Epic Games has referred to as “bleak news.”

Apple’s online store has officially launched in Saudi Arabia, allowing customers to buy a range of Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs, directly from the company’s website. This launch comes seven months after Apple first announced plans to provide direct online purchasing for Saudi Arabian consumers. Until now, buyers in the country could only purchase Apple products through authorized resellers. In addition to the online store, Apple has exciting plans for the future, including the opening of several retail locations starting in 2026.

Notably, a flagship store is slated to be established at Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated just outside of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia. This expansion signifies Apple’s commitment to growing its presence in the region. Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed enthusiasm over this new venture during his visit to Saudi Arabia in December 2024, highlighting the company’s eagerness to engage with the Saudi market. On a related note, Apple recently announced the launch of AppleCare One, a new subscription service designed to cover multiple devices under one plan.

Starting at $19.99 per month for up to three products, users can extend coverage for additional devices for a small fee, including benefits such as priority support and unlimited accident repairs typical of AppleCare+. As for upcoming products, anticipation is growing for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, both expected to launch in the next couple of months. Reports mention changes like a potential aluminum frame and insights into Apple’s first foldable iPhone, which could feature unique screen sizes. Overall, these developments reflect Apple’s ongoing innovation and strategic expansion, particularly in markets like Saudi Arabia.

Apple has officially launched AppleCare One, their new subscription service designed to provide coverage for multiple devices under a single plan. This initiative marks a significant step towards simplifying device support for customers.

The subscription begins at $19.99 per month, allowing coverage for up to three products. Users can add additional devices for $5.99 each month, making it an accessible option for families or individuals with multiple Apple products.

The plan includes comprehensive benefits similar to those offered by AppleCare+, such as unlimited accidental damage repairs, priority customer support, and extended battery coverage. One of the notable features is the flexibility it offers; subscribers can add or remove devices from the plan at any time.

A standout aspect of AppleCare One is its eligibility criteria. Customers can include devices that they already own, as long as they are no older than four years and are in good condition.

This does away with the traditional 60-day limit for purchasing AppleCare+, which means users have more time to decide on coverage. Additionally, if a customer trades in a device that is covered by AppleCare One, that device is automatically removed from the plan and replaced with the new one.

The new service also expands its theft and loss protection to include iPads and Apple Watches, which were previously only available for iPhones. Pricing remains consistent regardless of the products included, potentially allowing users to save up to $11 per month compared to enrolling in separate plans for each device.

Customers in the United States can sign up for AppleCare One through their iPhone, iPad, or Mac, or by visiting a nearby Apple Store.

AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss coverage is set to expand its offerings, allowing users to protect more than just their iPhones. According to a report from 9to5Mac’s Zac Hall, starting July 24, 2025, AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss will also be available for iPads and Apple Watches. Notably, these plans can be purchased individually and do not require the AppleCare One bundle. As the title suggests, AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss provides coverage for up to two incidents of theft or loss within a year.

Additionally, it includes unlimited repairs for accidental damage. In the United States, the pricing for these plans is quite accessible: the iPad plan starts at $4.99 per month or $49.99 annually, while the Apple Watch plan is priced at $2.99 per month or $29.99 per year. Previously, Theft and Loss coverage was exclusive to iPhones, leaving iPads and Apple Watches with only basic AppleCare+ options. However, it’s worth noting that this expanded coverage does not extend to other Apple devices, such as Macs, Apple TVs, HomePods, AirPods, and Apple Vision Pro.

For those who prefer the AppleCare One plan, theft and loss coverage is included for any devices added to that plan, including both the iPad and Apple Watch. This development is indicative of Apple’s commitment to providing comprehensive protection options for a broader range of its devices, enhancing the peace of mind for its customers. Further details can be found on the official AppleCare website. In other news, Apple is making strides with upcoming products, including interesting rumors about the iPhone 17 series and various updates for their latest operating systems.

Blender has announced plans to create a native iPad version of its renowned open-source 3D creation suite. This version will feature a multitouch interface specifically designed for artists who work on tablets. The development team aims to fully harness the capabilities of the iPad Pro and Apple Pencil, ensuring that the app maintains the power and functionality that users expect from Blender on desktop platforms.

The initial release will focus on essential features such as sculpting and basic object manipulation. Future iterations hope to incorporate advanced tools like the Grease Pencil and storyboarding. To achieve this, the team is adapting the user interface to suit the touch-driven environment of the iPad while minimizing information overload.

Existing input methods will be enhanced, and workspaces will be tailored to facilitate smoother operations. Current mockups suggest a single-window workflow, emphasizing efficient use of screen space with easily accessible tools presented through floating UI elements and contextual overlays. Importantly, the iPad version of Blender is not intended as a simplified mobile application.

The developers clarify that their focus is on delivering a robust experience for existing Blender users rather than catering to those unfamiliar with the software. They emphasize that there will be no differentiation between desktop and tablet users; both will have equal access to Blender’s tools and features. While no specific release date has been disclosed, Blender plans to showcase a live tech demo at SIGGRAPH 2025 in Vancouver.

Following the iPad Pro version, additional touch-based devices such as the Microsoft Surface, Huawei MatePad, and Wacom MovinkPad are expected to receive attention. Innovations introduced for the tablet version will also enhance the desktop experience, highlighting Blender’s commitment to evolving its software across platforms.

It would be fantastic if Apple addressed the existing flaws in its operating systems before introducing new visual updates. I run into these issues multiple times a week, and it can be quite frustrating.

This concern extends to macOS as well, especially as I anticipate that Apple will attempt to introduce some of the problematic features seen in iOS to the Mac environment. It often feels as though marketing and design teams prioritize aesthetic changes over actual functionality.

One major issue is the handling of weak Wi-Fi connections. When I’m in areas with poor connectivity, such as my driveway or near the refrigerator, it would be far more efficient if my device would automatically switch to cellular data instead of stalling or requiring a manual disconnection from Wi-Fi.

Another area needing improvement is the organization of tabs in Safari and subfolders in the Mail app. Implementing an option to sort these alphabetically would greatly enhance user experience.

Additionally, I believe it’s time to restore the ability to properly pause audio playing in the background when a map application is in use or when I’m dictating messages. This feature has been inconsistent for years, leaving users confused.

Moreover, audio management needs to be improved. With applications like Instagram, Facebook, and Safari, it’s too common for multiple audio sources to play simultaneously, which can be overwhelming.

Finally, I must mention the dictation functionality using my AirPod Pros. Despite having noise cancellation, the accuracy is disappointingly low, with dictation working effectively only about 40% of the time.

This requires constant manual corrections. Apple has had a reputation for addressing flaws proactively, and while fresh designs can be appealing, they mean little without strong, intuitive functions.