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  • Would You Consider Returning to the Air?

    I completely agree with your perspective. The weight difference of just 0.7 lbs is negligible, and while an M2 or newer MacBook Air would suit my needs fine, I find it hard to give up the benefits of a 120Hz display and the convenience of an SD card slot for photography.

    I also can’t emphasize enough how useful the additional third USB-C slot has been. The MacBook Air is indeed lightweight and sleek, but the 14-inch MacBook Pro is only slightly heavier or thicker.

    Considering the enhanced performance and additional features you get, the minor loss in portability seems worth it to me. For those who currently own a MacBook Pro with the M1 chip or later, would you ever consider switching back to the MacBook Air?

    I miss the Air’s slim design, but I’m hesitant to return due to the superior display quality of the Pro. In my case, I recently retired my 2013 MacBook Air and purchased a 2025 M4 MacBook Air with 32GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD.

    It’s an incredible machine, and I’m looking forward to using it for many years to come! I also think the MacBook Air is excellent for everyday tasks.

    I own a 14-inch M4 Pro along with a 15-inch M2 Air for work. The Pro has advantages such as a better display, superior speakers, microphones, and a fan, but it is also thicker and heavier than the Air.

    As for taking the 14-inch Pro on the road, I consider it portable enough for travel, but I prefer the idea of having a base 13-inch Air for lighter tasks, especially when processing photos. While I could travel with the Pro, I’d feel more comfortable keeping it at home due to the sensitive information stored on it.

    So, I am considering waiting for a good sale on the Air; it would be a better fit for traveling and could lead me to eventually downsizing my gear to an 11-inch iPad as my devices age.

  • The Challenges of Android Tablets Discussed on MacRumors Forums

    Before watching WWDC, I was considering getting the One Plus tablet. However, after experiencing the upcoming features in iPad OS 26, I realized it wouldn’t be worthwhile to trade my iPad Pro for the One Plus model.

    There’s no denying that the One Plus tablet offers great value, priced at $700 for a 13-inch device with impressive specs—and it even includes a free keyboard at the moment. This makes it a solid contender compared to the $1,200 iPad Pro.

    In fact, when compared to the 13-inch iPad Air, which costs around $800, the One Plus tablet doesn’t really seem like a direct competitor. One significant drawback is the absence of an OLED display, which feels like a step down if you’re accustomed to the newer iPad Pro.

    Another considerable advantage of the iPad is the app ecosystem. While iPads don’t have as many apps as the iPhone, there is still a substantial difference when compared to Android.

    The concern about whether an iPad can replace a computer is becoming less relevant due to the advancements in iPad OS 26. Features like improved multitasking, file management, and audio input handling have made significant progress.

    Many users of MacBook Airs would likely find that a modern iPad meets their day-to-day needs without any major issues. However, power users needing specific Mac or PC software will still find it hard to make the switch.

    There’s room for improvement, but I’m genuinely excited about the latest changes in iPad OS. If Apple could lower prices a bit (though I know that’s unlikely), it would make the iPad even more appealing.

  • Suggestions for Enhancing the M4 Tandem iPad Pro

    The current M4 iPad Pro is already an impressive device, but there are a few enhancements that could definitely make it even better. For one, the addition of a second Thunderbolt port would be a welcome upgrade, along with improvements to the front-facing camera specifically for web calls. Better battery life is also high on the wish list, as well as offering different RAM options rather than forcing users to purchase the 1TB model for 16GB of RAM. Another feature that would be beneficial is a built-in kickstand.

    Many users find themselves needing to adjust their screen’s brightness, often manually setting it between 45-50% to avoid strain, especially considering issues like PWM (pulse-width modulation), which can cause discomfort. Additionally, some users have had to return devices due to eye strain, emphasizing the need for improvements in display technology that can accommodate longer viewing times. While it’s likely that Apple will maintain the current pricing standard—keeping the base model around £999—many believe that the new features like Tandem OLED and improved M chips will justify the cost. Users also want more RAM, better battery life, and a more affordable cellular option, ideally with built-in GPS for non-cellular models.

    Furthermore, some consumers have expressed the desire for a zero camera bump design, enhancing the aesthetics of the device, along with a nano-texture finish and improved speaker quality in portrait orientation. Ultimately, while the current iPad Pro serves well for many, as software demands increase, there will always be a need for advancements in hardware to keep pace. The excitement around the anticipated improvements in iOS 26 also hints at how the device will be integrated into workflows moving forward. However, what feels perfect today may one day feel insufficient as technology continues to evolve.

  • Excessive Updates: Discussing Weather App News in MacRumors Forums

    I must say, I’m not impressed with the recent changes. The constant promotion of Apple News feels overwhelming, especially when I have no interest in it. It seems like another nail in the coffin for user experience.

    MacRumors should strive for logic, and this doesn’t align with the kind of content I expect from the platform. It’s amusing that the latest news item is weather-related. However, what caught my attention today was something unexpected.

    My weather app frequently surprises me with its reporting, and today’s article was particularly fascinating. It discussed radio signals originating from beneath Antarctica. The fact that these signals have a low angle of 30° suggests they have traveled through thousands of miles of rock, which shouldn’t be possible according to our current understanding of physics.

    Typically, rock absorbs these signals, yet these seem to behave differently from any known particle. This could mean we’re potentially discovering a new particle or even the elusive first signs of dark matter. Not bad for a weather app!

    Nevertheless, I still prefer to seek out news on my own terms. If I wanted updates, I would do so independently. I can only imagine what’s next; perhaps news will start appearing in my email app because it’s deemed contextually relevant.

    At least I can appreciate that there’s no over-the-top drama in how these changes are presented.

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max: Disappointing Features and Performance Discussed on MacRumors Forums

    We recently upgraded to the iPhone 16 Pro for our entire family, and unfortunately, we have encountered numerous problems. Each of us has experienced issues such as dropped calls, poor internet connectivity, and inconsistent 5G reception. Often, we find ourselves having to restart our phones to reestablish a stable connection. This has been the worst phone experience I have ever had.

    Reflecting on my previous device, the iPhone 12 Pro Max, I cannot help but wish I had it back. The performance of the iPhone 16 Pro has not lived up to our expectations, and it feels like a significant step backward in terms of reliability. It’s disheartening to have invested in what is supposed to be a premium device only to face such fundamental connectivity issues. I believe that Apple needs to acknowledge the problems with the iPhone 16 Pro.

    Transparency is crucial, and a formal acknowledgment would be a good first step in addressing these concerns. Just as automotive companies issue recalls when they discover serious issues with their vehicles, Apple should consider taking similar action with this phone model. It would not only restore consumer confidence but also demonstrate that the company is committed to delivering quality products. As a long-time Apple customer, I feel particularly disappointed.

    I had high hopes for the iPhone 16 Pro, expecting it to improve our communication and connectivity. Instead, I find myself frustrated and longing for the reliability of my previous phone.

  • Would You Consider Upgrading from iPhone 14 or Older for Apple’s New Intelligence Features?

    To the original poster, I wouldn’t recommend upgrading just for Apple Intelligence, especially since it’s disabled on my iPhone 16 Plus. However, using an iPhone stuck on its final iOS version is equally unappealing, as it results in a poor hardware-software experience.

    I recently upgraded from an iPhone XR, knowing it wouldn’t support iOS 26. With the holiday season approaching, it felt like the right time to make a change.

    The upgrade to the iPhone 15 Pro has been a delightful experience. It features the action button, Dynamic Island, improved cameras, and faster performance, which make a significant difference.

    My old XR struggled, lacking wireless charging capabilities and having difficulty with public iOS versions. I suspected long before WWDC 25 that the XR wouldn’t support iOS 26, so I embarked on an iPhone hunt once the 16s were released, eventually scoring a great deal on the 15 Pro during Christmas.

    Switching from an iPhone XR to a 16 Plus, I had to upgrade due to compatibility. My XR was running iOS 12 but became increasingly laggy once it fell behind.

    Although it offered three months of tolerable usage after iOS 18’s release, I eventually turned to my iPad Air 5 with iPadOS 15 for smoother performance. I frequently use visual intelligence on my current device, keeping it accessible on the lock screen and control center.

    My decision to upgrade from the iPhone 14 to the 15 Pro was also driven by the appeal of Apple Intelligence and a great carrier discount. While I enjoy the capabilities, including the telephoto lens and the aesthetic of Dynamic Island, I find many features more gimmicky than essential.

    As for cases, I have a beautiful pressed flowers case that pairs nicely with my blue titanium 15 Pro. It’s lightweight, provides a good grip, and looks stunning.

    I’ve always been drawn to different cases and enjoy the variety they provide.

  • Apple Passwords Exposed, But Silence Follows on MacRumors Forums.

    Forbes recently reported a concerning headline: “16 Billion Apple, Facebook, Google And Other Passwords Leaked — Act Now.” This alarming news has raised questions about online security, yet sites like MacRumors seem to be silent on the issue, leaving many to wonder why. The article highlights a massive breach affecting billions of user credentials across some of the world’s most popular platforms. This scale of data breach is unprecedented, leading experts to suggest that individuals should consider switching from traditional passwords to more secure alternatives like passkeys.

    As a growing number of cyber threats emerge, the call to enhance personal security measures has never been more urgent. The absence of immediate coverage or discussion on platforms like MacRumors is noteworthy. Users often rely on these sites for timely updates on topics related to tech security, product updates, and other pertinent industry news.

    The lack of commentary following such a significant breach raises concerns about potential complacency in the face of escalating cybersecurity risks. With large-scale leaks becoming increasingly common, the time may have arrived to rethink how we handle our online identities. Traditional passwords can be easily compromised, but passkeys, which utilize biometric data or hardware-based authentication, could provide a stronger shield against unauthorized access.

    In light of these developments, users must act quickly. Changing passwords, employing multifactor authentication, and considering the shift to passkeys can significantly bolster personal online security. The digital world continues to evolve, and adapting our security practices is essential for protecting our personal information in the face of such threats.

  • Apple Releases Updated iOS 26 Developer Beta to Address Battery Problems – MacRumors

    Apple has released a revised version of the first iOS 26 beta tailored specifically for developers. This new update is exclusively available for iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models, meaning that users of iPhone 14 or earlier versions will not have access to this beta. Registered developers can download the updated beta software directly through the Settings app on their devices. This revision addresses a notable issue that affected some iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 users, where a low battery symbol could prevent the device from starting after updating to the initial iOS 26 beta.

    The latest iOS 26 includes several new features first showcased at Apple’s recent keynote event, including a fresh Liquid Glass design that is integrated throughout the update. In addition to the aesthetic changes, iOS 26 boasts a plethora of enhancements across various applications, including Messages, Phone, Safari, Music, and Photos. While the current beta is designed for developers to familiarize themselves with the new features and make adjustments to their apps, Apple plans to roll out a public beta in July. The full public release of iOS 26, along with updates for iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, watchOS 26, and visionOS 26, is scheduled for September.

    As interest in new Apple products grows, analysts are speculating about upcoming releases, including the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and iPhone 17 lineup. Meanwhile, residents in a few U.S. states can now store their driver’s licenses or state IDs in the Wallet app on their iPhones or Apple Watches, but the rollout for this feature has been gradual since its announcement in 2021.

  • Discover the Latest Developments in Visual Intelligence for iOS 26 – MacRumors

    Apple’s Visual Intelligence feature, introduced last year, has received significant updates in iOS 26, enhancing its utility and competitiveness against similar capabilities on Android devices. One major improvement is the addition of onscreen awareness, allowing Visual Intelligence to function not just with the camera but also with existing content on your device. In iOS 26, users can utilize Visual Intelligence on screenshots.

    To do this, capture a screenshot by pressing the volume up button and the side button simultaneously. Following this, you can exit the Markup interface by tapping the pen icon at the top of the display. Once out of Markup, the Visual Intelligence options become available.

    A standout feature is “Highlight to Search,” which enables users to draw over objects within a screenshot to conduct a targeted image search. This feature operates similarly to Android’s “Circle to Search” and defaults to using Google Image Search. Apple showcased additional support for apps such as Etsy during their keynote event, indicating a potential for further integrations.

    For more general inquiries, users can tap the Ask button to pose questions about their screenshots, with responses generated via ChatGPT. The Search button accesses Google Search for additional information. Notably, if your screenshot contains relevant details like dates or times, these can be directly added to your calendar.

    Moreover, Visual Intelligence now supports the quick identification of a wider array of objects, including art, books, landmarks, and sculptures, alongside previously recognized animals and plants. A glowing icon appears when an identifiable object is recognized, allowing users to touch it for more information. Currently, Visual Intelligence is available on compatible devices, specifically iPhone 15 Pro models and iPhone 16 models, with the public launch of iOS 26 expected in September.

  • iPhone 18 Pro Display Sizes Remain Unchanged After Two Significant Revisions – MacRumors

    Apple is expected to keep the display sizes of the iPhone 18 Pro models at 6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max, according to new rumors circulating among industry insiders. These dimensions mirror those of the current iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, and there are indications that Apple will not alter these sizes for their upcoming iPhone 17 Pro devices either.

    However, significant changes are anticipated regarding the display technology. Sources suggest that Apple plans to reposition the Face ID scanning technology beneath the display, leaving only a minimal pinhole for the front-facing camera, which will be located in the top-left corner.

    This design shift aims to enhance the on-screen viewing experience while reducing obstructions. Moreover, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are rumored to feature revisions to their camera capabilities.

    An upgrade to a 48 MP primary rear camera with a variable aperture is being discussed, allowing for more manual control and improved depth-of-field flexibility beyond the current fixed aperture of ƒ/1.78. Additionally, industry analysts hint at a potential move from Sony sensors to Samsung’s advanced three-layer stacked sensor technology for better image quality and responsiveness.

    In terms of performance enhancements, a increase in RAM from 8GB to 12GB is expected, which aligns with speculation about improved multitasking and efficiency. The introduction of a new C2 modem is also anticipated, delivering better connectivity through mmWave support in the U.S.

    Finally, the upcoming A20 Pro chip, built on TSMC’s 2nm process, is expected to significantly boost performance and power efficiency compared to the existing A19 series. Overall, while the physical dimensions remain the same, the iPhone 18 series appears set to offer substantial upgrades in several key areas.