Category: Apple

Hello everyone,

I recently purchased a 2019 Mac Pro, equipped with a powerful 16-core processor, 192GB of RAM, and a 2TB original Apple SSD. To enhance its performance further, I’ve also installed an OWC Accelsior 4M2 PCI card that houses four SSDs. This setup is more than sufficient for my needs and it operates exceptionally well.

I have a question for the community. I would like to know if it’s possible to use the original 2TB Apple SSD solely for storage purposes, without it being part of a bootable system. Thank you in advance for your assistance!

I have a deep appreciation for my straps, yet it’s hard to ignore that the materials used to create them are likely very inexpensive, probably just costing a few cents to manufacture. This isn’t meant to be a complaint; rather, I’m interested in hearing others’ thoughts on this topic. It’s evident that there are factors such as research and development costs, along with brand royalties for licensed products, that contribute to the overall pricing. However, one can’t help but wonder about the significant profit margins that may exist in this market.

What do you think? I genuinely wish everyone the best and hope we can have an insightful discussion on this subject. Your perspectives could help shed light on the underlying economics of strap production and pricing.

Apple has released the candidate versions of iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 to developers and public beta testers for evaluation. This release comes just one week after the third beta versions were made available. The release candidates signify that the software is nearing its public launch, barring the discovery of any additional bugs.

Users can download iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 via the Settings app on compatible devices by navigating to General > Software Update. Although there have been no significant new features reported in the beta versions of these updates, some modifications have been implemented in the App Store in the European Union due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). There have also been rumors that Apple intended to introduce Apple Intelligence to China with this update, but regulatory challenges have postponed that initiative.

The focus of iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 appears to be on minor enhancements and bug fixes. If any noteworthy updates emerge from the fourth beta, this article will be updated accordingly. Meanwhile, Apple is shifting its attention towards iOS 26, which is currently in beta testing and is slated for release in September alongside the new iPhone 17 models.

In other news, Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display, according to a research firm. Additionally, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models are rumored to feature an aluminum frame, which differs from the titanium frames found in previous models. AppleCare has also introduced a new subscription plan covering multiple devices under a single plan, starting at $19.99 per month.

Overall, the tech giant continues to solidify its plans for the release of current and future products while enhancing the user experience across its devices.

Apple has released the candidate version of macOS Sequoia 15.6 for public beta testers and developers to evaluate. This update comes just a week after Apple introduced the third beta of macOS Sequoia 15.6. The new release is part of Apple’s ongoing improvements to its operating system, but specifics regarding features have yet to be disclosed.

Testers interested in evaluating macOS Sequoia can join the beta program through the Software Update section within the System Settings app. However, early beta releases have not revealed any significant new features, suggesting that Apple’s focus is shifting as it prepares for the upcoming macOS Tahoe, set to launch in the fall. In other news, excitement is building around Apple’s next-generation iPhone models.

The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are anticipated within the next two months, with rumors highlighting several potential changes. Notably, the new models may feature an aluminum frame, a shift from the titanium frame used in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro. Additionally, Apple is reportedly developing its first foldable iPhone, which could be equipped with a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display.

These sizes have been corroborated by multiple sources, increasing speculation about their accuracy. Apple has also announced AppleCare One, a new subscription plan that allows customers to cover various devices under a single plan. Starting at $19.99 per month, the service includes the benefits of AppleCare+, such as unlimited repairs for accidental damage and priority support.

As Apple continues refining iOS 26 through its beta versions, users can expect further enhancements and features leading up to its public release. The fourth beta has already seen improvements to the Liquid Glass design across the operating system.

Apple has introduced the fourth beta versions of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 for developers, following the release of the third betas just two weeks prior. Registered developers can access the latest beta software through the Software Update section in their device’s Settings app. The new update showcases Apple’s innovative Liquid Glass design, characterized by a sleek, translucent interface that enhances the appearance of the Lock Screen, Home Screen, and Control Center, as well as in-app menus and buttons. Both operating systems come packed with improvements for various apps such as Messages, Phone, Shortcuts, and Apple Music, alongside updated features related to Apple Intelligence and a revamped CarPlay interface.

Notably, iPadOS 26 introduces a new multitasking system that supports multiple app windows, providing a more Mac-like experience. Additional details about new features introduced in previous beta versions can be found in dedicated roundups for both iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, which encapsulate notable changes from beta 2 and beta 3 releases. These updates are generating anticipation among developers as they test the functionalities ahead of a more extensive public rollout. Alongside the beta releases, Apple continues to buzz with rumors about upcoming products.

Speculation regarding the first foldable iPhone suggests it will feature a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display. Further, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models are expected to transition from a titanium to an aluminum frame. In terms of customer service, Apple recently launched AppleCare One, a subscription model allowing users to protect multiple devices under a unified plan. With monthly payments starting at $19.99, coverage can be expanded with the addition of more devices for a nominal fee.

As iOS 26 progresses through its beta stages, users can expect improved visual aesthetics and functionality enhancements, aligning with Apple’s commitment to innovation and user-centered design.

Apple has released the fourth beta version of macOS Tahoe 26 for developer testing, following the third beta released two weeks earlier. Developers registered with Apple can download this update directly through the System Settings app. This new beta introduces several exciting features and a comprehensive redesign known as Liquid Glass, which is a hallmark of Apple’s updates this year.

Notably, macOS Tahoe brings the Phone and Journal apps to the Mac for the first time and introduces a new cross-platform Games app, expanding functionality and user experience. Spotlight has also undergone significant changes, allowing users to perform various tasks, such as sending emails, without the need to open an app, enhancing efficiency. Additionally, there are updates to several applications including Messages, Safari, and Notes, each receiving improvements to better meet user needs.

For a detailed list of all the new features in macOS Tahoe, users can refer to Apple’s dedicated roundup. The launch of macOS Tahoe is anticipated for this fall. In related news, Apple continues to develop its future product lineup.

Reports suggest that the first foldable iPhone will include a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display, corroborated by multiple sources including analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. As the launch of iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max approaches, discussions around these models intensify, hinting at an aluminum frame unlike the titanium used in previous versions. Furthermore, Apple introduced AppleCare One, a new subscription plan allowing customers to cover multiple devices under a single policy, starting at $19.99 per month.

This plan aims to simplify coverage for users with multiple Apple products. As Apple unfolds these updates and announcements, the tech community eagerly awaits their upcoming releases and enhancements in the years to come.

With the release of the fourth beta of iOS 26, Apple has made several adjustments to the Liquid Glass design that spans the operating system. This update focuses on improving the visibility of menus and buttons within applications in response to feedback surrounding the previous beta. In beta 4, transparency has been increased in various areas, particularly in navigation bars for apps such as Photos, Music, and the App Store.

These changes allow more background colors to be visible, striking a better balance between the frosted glass effect seen in previous iterations. While the overall look remains familiar, beta 4 subtly improves on the ability to read text across different app interfaces. In contrast, elements like the Control Center and the Lock Screen largely maintain their previous appearance, indicating that the main focus of this beta is on app navigation bars and buttons.

Notably, the background on the Lock Screen darkens as users navigate through notifications, enhancing usability. Looking ahead, Apple is likely to continue refining the Liquid Glass design based on user input, with the finalized version expected when iOS 26 officially launches this fall. Additionally, Apple is gearing up for the release of the iPhone 17 Pro models, rumored to feature an aluminum frame, differing from the titanium used in the iPhone 15 series.

The company has also introduced AppleCare One, a new subscription plan that covers multiple devices under a single plan. Starting at $19.99 per month, this service offers unlimited repairs and priority support for enrolled devices. Overall, iOS 26 appears to be a significant design overhaul, incorporating user feedback while aiming to enhance overall functionality.

As the public beta approaches, we can expect further updates and refinements from Apple.

Apple appears to be working on a sleep score feature for the Apple Watch, as evidenced by code discovered in iOS 26 by MacRumors contributor Steve Moser. Within the Health app’s code, an image shows an Apple Watch displaying the number “84,” accompanied by three bars that echo the colors of various sleep stages tracked by the device. The orange bar may indicate awake time, while the lighter blue could represent REM sleep, and the darker blue might correspond to Core or Deep sleep. The graphic is complemented by several sleep-related icons commonly found in iOS, including a moon and stars, “zzz,” a bed, and an alarm clock, as well as a thermometer.

Notably, the image is labeled “Watch Focus Score,” hinting that it may provide a score related to sleep quality. This focus score could potentially predict how well users will function during the day based on their prior night’s sleep. While many health tracking devices already offer a sleep score, the Apple Watch has so far refrained from doing so despite its ability to track sleep and categorize it into REM, Core, and Deep stages. Users can view metrics like time in bed and time awake, but the addition of a sleep score would mark a significant enhancement.

Considering the graphic’s inclusion of a temperature icon, the upcoming sleep score feature may factor in multiple health metrics, similar to the Vitals option introduced in watchOS 11. However, no further evidence of a sleep score has surfaced yet, leaving open the possibility that this graphic relates to another feature or serves as an early indication of what Apple may introduce in the forthcoming watchOS 26 update.

It’s perplexing that some people advocate for a 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratio on laptops when it seems ill-suited for their primary functions. The truth is, most of us aren’t using our laptops to watch movies, especially when we have large-screen televisions at home that cater perfectly to that need.

Instead, laptops are vital tools for reading, writing, and engaging with online content, particularly in today’s world where social media platforms like TikTok dominate with quick visual consumption. In this context, a 3:2 aspect ratio would be far more advantageous.

This ratio provides additional vertical space, making it easier to read lengthy documents, write articles, or simply browse the internet without constant scrolling. The extra screen real estate can significantly enhance productivity, catering to our current ways of working and interacting.

Even a 1:1 aspect ratio could work well, offering a unique layout that fits certain tasks perfectly. With a square screen, you could enjoy a more organized workspace, ideal for coding, graphic design, or reviewing multiple documents side by side.

Moreover, adjusting the aspect ratio could lead to better battery efficiency. A design optimized for different ratios might optimize power usage, allowing us to use our laptops longer without needing to recharge.

It’s time for manufacturers to recognize the changing needs of users and rethink their approach. A shift toward more versatile screen ratios would not only improve usability but also accommodate the varied tasks we perform on laptops today.

It’s a simple adjustment that could yield significant benefits.

Apple has taken a stand against the UK government’s request for backdoor access to encrypted user data by filing a legal complaint with the UK’s Investigatory Powers Tribunal. This action comes in response to an order issued earlier this year that demanded Apple provide covert access to encrypted information uploaded to iCloud globally, justified under the Investigatory Powers Act. Apple has resisted compliance with this demand.

In a bid to safeguard user privacy, Apple has withdrawn its Advanced Data Protection feature in the UK. This feature, designed to offer end-to-end encryption for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users storing data in iCloud, was eliminated to prevent the UK government from accessing encrypted data. Apple’s commitment to user privacy remains firm, as evidenced by today’s legal challenge, which may be heard as soon as this month.

However, due to legal restrictions, Apple cannot publicly comment on the UK order, and the proceedings may progress without public scrutiny. In previous statements, Apple has emphasized its unwillingness to compromise user security, indicating that removing iCloud features from the UK is preferable to compliance. Currently, the decision affects only Advanced Data Protection, but it raises concerns that other key services, such as FaceTime and iMessage, could also be removed in the future.

The UK government’s rationale for seeking backdoor access is to combat terrorism and investigate cases of child exploitation. The situation echoes a similar confrontation in 2016 when the U.S. government requested Apple unlock an iPhone linked to a shooter in San Bernardino, leading to extensive legal battles without compromising security. Interestingly, the U.S. has since shifted its stance, promoting end-to-end encryption to enhance the protection of mobile devices against foreign cyber threats.

Furthermore, the U.S. government is now assessing whether the UK’s demands infringe upon the CLOUD Act, which protects the privacy of U.S. citizens by restricting foreign governments from accessing their data.