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  • Why the Latest AirPods Max Fail to Impress – MacRumors

    The recent update to the AirPods Max has left many users feeling disappointed. After nearly four years without any significant changes, the new version of the headphones features only two modifications.

    The most notable change is the introduction of a USB-C charging port, replacing the previously used Lightning port. Additionally, Apple has introduced new color options, which include Blue, Orange, Purple, Midnight, and Starlight.

    Unfortunately, the updated AirPods Max still lack the H2 chip that was introduced with the AirPods Pro 2, which means they will not benefit from the Adaptive Audio features that enhance user experience. Furthermore, there are no improvements to the active noise cancellation, which remains unchanged.

    This means the updated model is still equipped with the H1 chip from 2019. Despite the updates, the price of $549 remains the same, without any discounts to reflect the limited enhancements.

    Customers can pre-order the new AirPods Max now, with availability starting on September 20. However, the lack of substantial upgrades has many questioning whether the changes justify the new release.

    In addition to the AirPods Max update, there are ongoing discussions around new Apple devices and updates. Rumors about the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models suggest notable design changes, such as a shift to an aluminum frame.

    Analysts expect the Apple Watch Ultra 3 to be released later this year, potentially alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. With numerous updates across various products, Apple continues to engage its user base, although the recent AirPods Max update has left something to be desired.

  • Apple Unveils USB-C Ports and Fresh Colors for AirPods Max – MacRumors

    Apple has introduced updates to its AirPods Max, now featuring a USB-C charging port and new color choices, including Midnight, Blue, Purple, Orange, and Starlight. This announcement marks a significant change since the initial release of the AirPods Max in December 2020, which used a Lightning port. Despite these updates, Apple has not labeled the new model as AirPods Max 2, indicating the changes are more incremental than groundbreaking. In addition to the new port and colors, the updated AirPods Max will support Personalized Spatial Audio with the upcoming iOS 18 software update.

    Pre-orders for the new headphones begin today, with a retail price set at $549. Official availability is scheduled for September 20, making it easy for fans to grab the latest version of this high-end audio accessory. Beyond the AirPods Max, Apple is generating excitement with rumors surrounding other products, notably the upcoming iPhone 17 series. Expected changes include a transition from titanium to aluminum frames for the Pro models.

    Furthermore, Apple is anticipated to release both the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the Apple Watch Series 11, likely coinciding with the iPhone 17 launch. On the software front, Apple has shared the second beta of iOS 26 with developers, incorporating several enhancements and refinements. For Apple Watch users, watchOS 26 is introducing a new privacy setting, allowing users to manage data visibility when their device is locked. As Apple continues to innovate across its product lines, these updates highlight the company’s commitment to enhancing user experience and staying competitive in the tech landscape.

  • Kuo: AirPods Max Lite Set for Mass Production in 2027

    According to industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is set to begin mass production of a lighter version of its AirPods Max headphones in 2027. This development has generated interest, although Kuo did not provide specific details regarding the extent of the weight reduction planned for the over-ear noise-canceling headphones. The existing AirPods Max, which weigh 13.6 ounces (386.2 grams), received an update in September 2024, including a switch to USB-C charging and new color options.

    Despite this recent update, *Bloomberg* noted in November that Apple currently has no significant plans for another update to the headphones in the near future. Apple has designed the AirPods Max’s headband to distribute weight and minimize on-head pressure. However, some users have expressed discomfort due to the stainless steel and aluminum construction, which can lead to pressure on the ears during extended use.

    In addition to the lighter AirPods Max, Kuo mentioned that more significant updates for AirPods may not occur until 2026. At that time, he anticipates the introduction of AirPods equipped with infrared cameras, bringing new features to the lineup. As for other Apple products, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are scheduled for release in the coming months, with various rumors suggesting changes to their design and features.

    This ongoing innovation reflects Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience through incremental improvements across its product offerings.

  • Apple Unveils $549 AirPods Max Over-Ear Headphones Featuring Advanced Noise Cancellation – MacRumors

    Apple has launched a new pair of over-ear wireless headphones called AirPods Max, set to deliver high-fidelity audio experiences. These headphones feature key technologies such as Adaptive EQ, Active Noise Cancellation, and spatial audio.

    Priced at $549, customers can start placing orders today via Apple.com or the Apple Store app, with the product becoming available on December 15. The AirPods Max will be available in five color options: space gray, silver, sky blue, green, and pink.

    The headphones are designed with a breathable knit mesh headband that helps distribute weight and minimizes pressure on the head. Additionally, the ear cups are made from acoustically engineered memory foam to ensure a proper seal and enhanced comfort.

    Each headphone utilizes a 40-mm dynamic driver specifically designed by Apple for rich sound performance. Equipped with the H1 chip in each ear cup, the AirPods Max claim to offer exceptional audio quality through computational audio processes.

    On one ear cup, users will find a Digital Crown similar to that on the Apple Watch, allowing precise control over volume, playback, and Siri activation. There’s also a dedicated button for switching between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode.

    AirPods Max are designed for longevity, featuring a battery life of up to 20 hours with Active Noise Cancellation and spatial audio in use. Apple maintains that a quick five-minute charge can provide 1.5 hours of listening time.

    Additionally, the headphones support seamless pairing with any device linked to a user’s iCloud account, enhancing ease of use. This launch is not just about audio; the AirPods Max also come with an intelligent Smart Case that places them into an ultra-low power state when not in use, thus conserving battery life.

    Available in the U.S. and over 25 other regions, the AirPods Max signal a new high point in Apple’s audio products.

  • Frustration over iPad’s stage manager feature: Why can’t we turn off the screen?

    When I connect my iPad to a monitor, one feature I would love to see is the ability to turn off the iPad’s screen. Since the iPad screen won’t be in use during this time, this would not only conserve battery life but also help preserve the longevity of the OLED display.

    It’s encouraging to see iPadOS evolving and becoming more functional, but this particular request has been brought up by users for several years now. Given the advancements in technology and the ongoing updates to the operating system, I can’t imagine that implementing this feature would be overly complicated.

    Additionally, it would be fantastic if the Stage Manager could have better compatibility with dual monitors. Improved functionality in this area would significantly enhance multitasking and productivity for users who rely on multiple screens for their work or creative projects.

    Overall, while iPadOS is making strides, features like these would greatly elevate the user experience.

  • Should You Buy the iPhone SE 3rd Gen Now?

    I really enjoy my first-generation iPhone, but I’m running into some issues. The battery no longer holds a charge very well, and I’m noticing that many apps are no longer upgradeable. In some instances, I can’t even find a workaround by using websites. I have a couple of requirements for my next phone.

    First, I want a device that is compact and easily fits in my pocket. I have no interest in getting a bulky Android phone, as I don’t need a larger screen. Second, I’m on a budget and don’t have demanding needs for my phone. I primarily use it for email, web browsing, and occasional banking or credit card transactions.

    I’ve been looking at some appealing deals for the iPhone SE Gen 3. However, I’m concerned about how long Apple will continue to support this model with compatible iOS updates. I understand that the Gen 3 can be upgraded from iOS 16 to iOS 18, but I wonder how long that support will last. It’s a legitimate concern that I may end up with a phone lacking usable apps again in the near future.

    Another option I’ve considered is replacing the battery in my current Gen 1 phone. This could allow me to keep using it for the functions that still work, while I use my iPad for more intensive tasks. I would appreciate any thoughts or advice that might help me make a decision regarding my phone situation.

  • How long will you wait to install iOS 26 on your main iPhone after its release?

    It’s interesting to think about how many people actually have more than one iPhone. I’m genuinely curious about this topic. Personally, I have my primary device, an iPhone 16 Pro Max, and I still keep my older models around. For instance, I have an iPhone XR running on iOS 12 alongside my 16 Pro Max, as well as an iPhone 14 Pro Max that I’m testing the beta on.

    I’ve noticed that many people tend to trade in their old models for upgrades rather than holding onto them. This isn’t the case for everyone, though. Funnily enough, when I traded in my SE3 for a promotion on the 15 Pro, I ended up keeping it because they didn’t require an actual trade-in. It was a bit of a surprise.

    I also hang onto my original SE for emergencies, even if it’s somewhat outdated. I find it enjoyable to experiment with betas, and thankfully, they tend to be stable enough that I don’t encounter significant issues. By the way, the trade-in process through my carrier, Verizon, was entirely online, which made it convenient. Regarding my recent trade-in experience, I gave my XR to Apple, even though it was not functional.

    They accepted it and provided me with full trade-in value despite knowing there was a logic board issue. As long as it passed their tests, they were willing to take it, which I found fortunate. My current iPhone 12 Pro Max operates smoothly. Still, I’ve noticed it tends to overheat when streaming audio while using Maps on CarPlay, something I didn’t experience with earlier updates.

    Meanwhile, the beta version I’m using on my 16 Pro Max works flawlessly and without heating issues.

  • Amazon Slashes $150 Off M4 MacBook Air, Now Starting at Just $849 – MacRumors

    Amazon has discounted the M4 MacBook Air, offering a $150 reduction on both the 13-inch and 15-inch models. This sale is notable, with prices beginning at $849 for the 256GB 13-inch model, and delivery expected around late June.

    For the 13-inch MacBook Air, all three configurations are on sale. The pricing structure is as follows: the base model with 256GB starts at $849, while the 16GB/512GB model is priced at $1,049, and the high-end 24GB/512GB model is available for $1,249.

    Each of these options represents solid but not the lowest prices currently available. As for the 15-inch models, customers can find deals on both the 512GB variants as well as the 256GB version.

    The 16GB/512GB model is on sale for $1,248.99, whereas the 24GB/512GB version is priced at $1,449. Similar to the 13-inch offerings, these represent good pricing for the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air.

    If you’re interested in exploring additional discounts beyond these models, consider checking out wider collections of Apple deals that showcase the best available bargains from recent weeks. In other Apple-related news, the anticipated iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are just months away, generating considerable excitement due to various rumored enhancements.

    Analysts also mention updates to the Apple Watch lineup, suggesting that both the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 are expected to launch later this year. Keep an eye out for the latest developments in both product lines as announcements draw closer.

  • iOS 26’s New Alarm Design Could Lead to Oversleeping, Warns MacRumors

    In the iOS 26 beta, Apple has rolled out a revamped design for the Clock app’s alarm screen, featuring a more streamlined appearance. The time display has been enlarged, and the buttons are now significantly bigger. When an alarm sounds, users will see two large, equal-sized buttons labeled Stop and Snooze, placed side by side at the bottom of the screen.

    This redesign aligns with Apple’s ongoing visual refresh in iOS 26. However, it also appears to revisit a previously addressed issue: the risk of inadvertently pressing the Stop button rather than Snooze when you’re in a half-asleep state. Interestingly, past internal testing suggested that having both buttons of the same size could lead to more mistakes.

    Jack Fields, a former Apple engineer and head writer at Kernel Extension, noted that the new layout contradicts findings from research he conducted during his time at the company. This testing involved tracking user interactions in a version of the Clock app, which used heat maps to determine where users were tapping on the screen as they woke up. The results were somewhat surprising; when the Stop and Snooze buttons were identical in size and placed closely together, users were 30% more likely to hit Stop accidentally.

    This data ultimately led to the design choices in recent iOS versions, which feature a prominent, centered Snooze button, with a smaller Stop button further down the screen. Fields explained that this configuration requires users to be more awake to accurately hit the Stop button. While it is important to remember that this is beta software and changes may still occur before the final release, the redesign raises questions about whether a more symmetrical, simplified user interface is always beneficial.

    Additionally, Apple has introduced a feature allowing users to customize the snooze length, which is a welcomed improvement. This flexible adjustment can range from 1 minute to 15 minutes, replacing the previous fixed snooze time of nine minutes.

  • 10 Ways iOS 26 Enhances CarPlay Experience – MacRumors

    Apple has announced iOS 26, which brings a range of exciting features and changes to CarPlay for vehicles. Users eager to explore these enhancements will need an iPhone running iOS 26, currently available in developer beta.

    The final version is anticipated to be released to the public in September. One of the standout additions is the Liquid Glass design for CarPlay, which mirrors the aesthetic of iOS devices, featuring shimmering app icons and a more translucent user interface.

    This visually appealing update enhances the overall user experience while using CarPlay. The new Messages app features in iOS 26 include the ability to respond to messages with standard Tapbacks, such as hearts or thumbs up, directly through CarPlay.

    Moreover, users can view their pinned conversations, making it easier to access important chats. For phone calls, a compact view has been introduced, allowing users to see incoming calls without obscuring other vital information, like turn-by-turn directions.

    Additionally, the Dashboard screen now supports Live Activities, enabling users to track important events, such as flight arrivals, effortlessly. CarPlay also expands its functionality with a new widgets screen, which provides direct access to calendar appointments and controls for HomeKit accessories.

    Multi-touch support for mapping apps allows for zooming and panning with finger gestures, enhancing navigation ease. iOS 26 also introduces the capability to wirelessly stream videos to the CarPlay screen, though this feature will only be available when the vehicle is parked for safety reasons.

    Furthermore, a Smart Display Zoom setting offers automatic resizing of CarPlay to fit various dashboard screen shapes, while new accessibility features include support for large text and sound recognition for identifying a crying baby inside the vehicle.