Apple Event Announced for September 9: 'It's Glowtime'
Apple today announced plans to hold its annual iPhone-centric event on Monday, September 9 at the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California. The event is set to start at 10:00 a.m., and select members of the media have been invited to attend.
This year's event will see Apple unveil the iPhone 16 lineup, new Apple Watch models, and the AirPods 4, plus we'll get official launch dates for iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and Apple's other software updates.
All four of the new iPhones are expected to have the customizable Action Button and a new Capture Button for taking photos that will have built-in gestures, such as a swipe for zooming in and out or a soft press for autofocus. The Capture Button will be on the right side of the devices below the volume buttons.
Apple is also adding an A18 chip to all models, so the entire iPhone 16 lineup will be capable of supporting the Apple Intelligence features that are coming in iOS 18. No other major new features are expected for the standard iPhone 16 models, but the Pro lineup will get an increase in display size, going from 6.1 and 6.7 inches to 6.3 and 6.9 inches, respectively, for the Pro and Pro Max. Both models will also include the 5x Telephoto zoom option that was exclusive to the Pro Max last year.
Apple Watch SE and the Apple Watch Ultra, and we could see new health features such as sleep apnea detection and blood pressure monitoring, but it is not yet entirely clear if Apple will have them ready in time for this year's launch.
AirPods 3 and one that's a step up with support for Active Noise Cancellation at a non-Pro price.
live on its website, on YouTube, and through the Apple TV app. For those unable to watch, MacRumors will be providing full event coverage on MacRumors.com and the MacRumorsLive Twitter account.
Related Roundups: AirPods 3, Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Ultra 2, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro
Buyer's Guide: AirPods (Don't Buy), Apple Watch (Don't Buy), Apple Watch SE (Don't Buy), Apple Watch Ultra (Don't Buy)
Related Forums: AirPods, Apple Watch
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iOS 18: Add a Tint to Your iPhone Home Screen Icons
Apple in iOS 18 has made a wealth of customization options available for your iPhone Home Screen, one of which is the ability to add a tint to your app icons.
Essentially, the tint feature offers a unique way to customize your device's appearance by changing the color of all your icons at once. Unlike individual icon customization, tinting affects every icon on your app pages, Home Screen, and App Library, creating a unified look across your entire interface.
Tinting works by first desaturating all icons and then applying a single color overlay. This process results in a monochromatic appearance, which means you'll lose the original colors of your app icons and widgets, but what you gain is a more cohesive look. It's a powerful tool for creating a coordinated, stylish interface that reflects your personal taste, so be sure to experiment with it.
To choose a tint color, you can also use an eyedropper tool to select a shade from your wallpaper, or manually adjust hue and saturation using two slider bars. This flexibility allows you to perfectly match your icons to your background or create a contrasting color scheme.
Lastly, it's important to remember that the tint setting is universal. You can't apply different tints to different app pages or sections of your device. Whatever color you choose will be applied everywhere icons appear. Here's how to tint your icons in iOS 18:
Long press a space on your Home Screen.
Tap Edit in the top-right corner.
Tap Customize.
Select the Tinted option.
Adjust the sliders to change the tint. Note that you can also use the eyedropper icon to select a hue from a region of your wallpaper.
Tap anywhere outside of the Customize panel to finish.
dedicated how-to.
Tag: Dark Mode
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AirPods Max Hit $399 in Every Color on Amazon ($150 Off)
Amazon today has Apple's AirPods Max headphones at a near all-time low price of $399.00, down from $549.00. The last time we tracked a deal this low was earlier in August, and today's price is just about $5 higher compared to the record low price.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
You'll find all five colors of the AirPods Max on sale this time: Green, Pink, Silver, Sky Blue, and Space Gray. Prime members can get the headphones delivered by August 28, while regular shipping should have them arrive by September 1.
$150 OFF
AirPods Max for $399.00
$89.00, down from $129.00; the AirPods 3 for $149.99, down from $169.00; and the AirPods Pro 2 for $189.99, down from $249.00. These are all second-best prices.
Deals Roundup to shop for even more Apple-related products and accessories.
Related Roundup: Apple Deals
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Telegram CEO Arrested in France Over Content Moderation Issues
Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old Russian-born billionaire founder and CEO of Telegram, was arrested at Le Bourget airport outside Paris late Saturday evening. The arrest occurred shortly after Durov arrived on a private jet from Azerbaijan and is said to be part of a joint investigation by several agencies investigating alleged failures in content moderation on the Telegram platform that may have facilitated criminal activity.
According to sources who spoke to Reuters, French authorities had spotted Durov on the passenger list and moved to arrest him due to an existing warrant. Several French TV reports said that authorities have been investigating Telegram's alleged moderation failures, which they believe may have facilitated a range of illegal activities, including terrorism, drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud, and child exploitation.
Telegram, which is based in Dubai, responded to Durov's arrest by stating that the company "abides by EU laws, including the Digital Services Act" and that its moderation practices are "within industry standards and constantly improving." The company emphasized that Durov "has nothing to hide and travels frequently in Europe," calling it "absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform."
#FreePavel" on the platform, and has previously claimed that free speech is under attack in Europe. Russian officials have also expressed their concern, with the foreign ministry demanding consular access to Durov, who holds dual French and UAE citizenship.
Durov, often referred to as the "Russian Mark Zuckerberg," founded Telegram in 2013 after leaving Russia due to conflicts with authorities over his refusal to shut down opposition communities on his previous social media platform, VK. In 2018, Russia began blocking Telegram after the app refused to grant state security services access to users' messages. Telegram has since grown to nearly 1 billion users and has become a crucial communication tool, particularly in Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022.
do not provide end-to-end encryption. Unlike WhatsApp and Signal, one-on-one chats are not encrypted by default, and group chats are never encrypted. This means that Telegram staff potentially have access to every message sent in these chats, which may be why Russia is so concerned about the arrest.
Tags: Encryption, Privacy, Telegram
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Both iPhone 16 Pro Models to Use Telephoto Lens From Same Supplier
This year, Apple will bring the Tetraprism Telephoto lens that was exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max to both iPhone 16 Pro models, and a new report out of Korea claims that Apple will initially rely on the same supplier as it did in 2023 for the required folded zoom modules.
According to The Elec, LG Innotek will provide the modules for the initial stock of iPhone 16 Pro models, which are expected to launch on Friday, September 20. The telephoto camera has a folded glass structure below the lens, which Apple refers to as Tetraprism technology. It reflects light four times over, allowing for a longer focal length of 120mm. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will both offer 5x digital zoom and 25x digital zoom.
Apple uses 3D sensor-shift optical image stabilization for the Telephoto lens in the Pro Max, and because it is able to move in three directions, it delivers twice as many micro-adjustments as before for crisp photos even when zoomed all the way in.
Related Roundup: iPhone 16 Pro
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Best Apple Deals of the Week: 9th Gen iPad Hits Record Low $199 Price Alongside the Year's Best Prices on MacBook Pro and Air
This week we tracked a new best-ever price on the 9th generation iPad, alongside low prices on the Apple Studio Display, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and M2 iPad Pro. In terms of third-party deals, Bose this week also began its annual back to school sale with steep discounts on popular audio accessories.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
iPad
What's the deal? Take $130 off 9th gen iPad
Where can I get it? Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$130 OFF
9th Gen iPad (64GB Wi-Fi) for $199.00
The best overall deal of the week is on Apple's 9th generation 64GB Wi-Fi iPad, now available for just $199.00, down from $329.00. This is a huge discount on the previous generation tablet, and a new all-time low price.
Bose
What's the deal? Save on Bose headphones and speakers
Where can I get it? Bose
25% OFF
Bose Back To School Sale
Bose QuietComfort Headphones for $249.00, down from $349.00.
Apple Studio Display
What's the deal? Take $299 off Apple Studio Display
Where can I get it? Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$299 OFF
Standard Glass Apple Studio Display for $1,299.99
Amazon this week discounted the Apple Studio Display (standard glass) to $1,299.99, down from $1,599.00, which is a match of the all-time low price on the monitor. You can also find low prices on the VESA mount adapter model and tilt- and height-adjustable stand model on Amazon right now.
MacBook Air
What's the deal? Take up to $250 off M2/M3 MacBook Air
Where can I get it? Amazon and Best Buy
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$200 OFF
13-inch M2 MacBook Air (256GB) for $799.00
$250 OFF
13-inch M3 MacBook Air (256GB) for $849.00
$249 OFF
15-inch M3 MacBook Air (256GB) for $1,049.99
Amazon and Best Buy both have record low discounts across the entire M2 and M3 MacBook Air lineup this week, with as much as $250 off select notebooks. The previous generation M2 models start at just $799.00, while the 13-inch M3 MacBook Air is available from $849.00.
MacBook Pro
What's the deal? Take $500 off M3 MacBook Pro
Where can I get it? Best Buy and Amazon
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
$500 OFF
14-inch MacBook Pro (512GB M3 Pro) for $1,499.00
$500 OFF
16-inch MacBook Pro (512GB M3 Pro) for $1,999.00
Best Buy and Amazon, down from $1,999.00. This beats the previous low price by $100, and is available to all Best Buy shoppers without the need of a membership.
M2 iPad Pro
What's the deal? Take up to $600 off M2 iPad Pro
Where can I get it? Best Buy
Where can I find the original deal? Right here
UP TO $600 OFF
M2 iPad Pro at Best Buy
Best Buy introduced steep discounts on the previous generation M2 iPad Pro this week, with up to $600 off select models. The focus this time around is on the larger capacity 1TB and 2TB models, with discounts on both 11-inch and 12.9-inch tablets still available.
Deals Roundup to get caught up with all of the latest deals and discounts that we've been tracking over the past week.
Related Roundup: Apple Deals
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Top Stories: September 10 iPhone Event Expected, 2024 Mac Updates, and More
Apple's annual iPhone event is coming up quickly, and things are starting to firm up regarding what we might see and when.
Beyond the iPhone and other updates expected next month, we're also looking toward some Mac updates later in the year while Apple appears to be moving forward on its tabletop robot project, so read on below for all the details!
Apple Expected to Debut iPhone 16, Apple Watch 10, and AirPods 4 on September 10
Apple plans to hold an event to introduce the iPhone 16 models, the next-generation Apple Watch models, and new AirPods on Tuesday, September 10, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
After the September 10 unveiling, the devices will launch on Friday, September 20. With that timeline, we can expect new software like iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia to come out a few days ahead of the September 20 hardware launch.
iPhone 16 Launch Is Next Month – Here's Everything We Know
With the iPhone 16 lineup being officially unveiled in just a few weeks, we've recapped many of the rumors we've heard about the devices, so check it out for a refresher as Apple's big event approaches.
We're expecting bigger sizes for the Pro models, a new Capture button, and an array of other improvements. On the color front, we're expecting a new bronze or gold shade potentially called Desert Titanium to replace the Blue Titanium option from the iPhone 15 Pro lineup.
Apple's September Event: New Products to Expect Beyond the iPhone 16
While the iPhone is always the highlight of Apple's annual September events, the company typically makes a number of other introductions and announcements.
We've rounded up what else we might see at next month's event, ranging from new Apple Watch models to updated AirPods and more, so check out our full list!
These New Macs Are Coming in 2024
With September expected to see the usual iPhone and Apple Watch focus, that doesn't mean Apple is ignoring the Mac lineup.
In fact, Apple is expected to move its entire Mac lineup to the M4 family of chips over the next ~12 months, with several models expected to see updates before the end of this year.
Five New Features in the iOS 18 Phone App
iOS 18 will see its public release in just about a month, and we're continuing our series of articles looking at updates coming for individual apps.
One of the apps seeing significant updates is the Phone app, which will allow users to record and transcribe calls, with devices supporting Apple Intelligence also able to summarize transcriptions. You'll also be able to search your call history, see contact suggestions when you start typing numbers on the keypad, and more.
First Plans for Apple's Tabletop Robot Spotted in Supply Chain
We've been hearing for some time about Apple's work on a tabletop robot, and it appears the project is moving forward with a focus on smart home control, videoconferencing, and home security monitoring.
Rumors have suggested the device could launch as soon as 2026, and we're already getting word about Apple's supply chain gearing up to provide components for it.
MacRumors Newsletter
Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view.
top stories like the above recap delivered to your email inbox each week, subscribe to our newsletter!
Tag: Top Stories
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iOS 18 Notes App: All the New Features
With iOS 18, the Notes app is set to gain several new features. There aren't many updates to the overall design, but Notes has deeper integrations with other apps that add all kinds of new functionality. There are also a few nifty iPad-only Notes features that involve the Apple Pencil.
Math Notes
Notes integrates with the Calculator app in iOS 18 for a new feature called Math Notes. Math Notes is designed to let you solve equations, so you can do things like add up your monthly budget, calculate what people owe for a group trip, or split a restaurant bill.
Math Notes works directly in the Notes app or in the Math Notes section of the Calculator app. Any equation that you type in is automatically solved when you add an equals sign, and there is support for variables.
If you define several variables, you can then use those definitions in your calculations. If you write dinner = $42, movies = $24, and dessert = $18 in the Notes app, you can then type in dinner + movies + dessert and add an equals sign to get the total. Variables can be used in equations and graphs (with a relevant equation) and adjusted later to change the results.
You can even do unit conversions with Math Notes. Just type in what you want to convert, and you'll get the result. If you type in 10 euros to pounds in a note and then add an equals sign, the Notes app will give you the answer.
Apple says that Math Notes is able to solve all of the same functions as a scientific calculator.
Math Notes is available for math written using Western Arabic numerals and common mathematical symbols, or typed using Arabic (Eastern & Western) and Devanagari numerals and common mathematical symbols.
Math Notes in iPadOS 18
On the iPad, you can use Math Notes with the Apple Pencil. Just write out equations by hand and add an equals sign to have the Notes app solve them.
All of the Math Notes features work with handwriting, including unit conversions.
Audio Recording and Transcription
The Notes app can be used to record any audio, taking advantage of the microphones in the iPhone. To record audio, tap on the paperclip icon in the toolbar and then tap on the "Record Audio" button.
From there, tap on the red record button to start a recording, and the stop button to end it. The option to record audio right in the Notes app is useful for lectures, meetings, and more.
All recordings that you capture with the Notes app are automatically transcribed in real-time so you can read through what was recorded and even search for key phrases.
Audio recording and transcribing is available on the iPhone 12 and later, but the feature only works in English.
Phone App Recording
iOS 18 supports recording phone calls, and when you initiate a recording of a phone call, that recording is stored in the Notes app. Phone app recordings have all of the same functionality as audio recordings made in the Notes app, with transcriptions provided.
Transcription Summaries (Apple Intelligence)
Apple Intelligence can be used to summarize a transcript of an audio recording or a recorded phone call in the Notes app.
A device that supports Apple Intelligence is required for this feature, and that includes the iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max and later as well as Macs and iPads with an M-series chip.
Collapsible Sections
If you have long notes with multiple headings, you can now collapse those headings down to create a more compact note.
Any section header can be collapsed, including headings, subheadings, and titles. Just tap on a heading and then tap on the down arrow to collapse it. Tap the arrow again to open it up.
Highlight Colors
The Notes app supports colors for typed text for the first time, allowing for highlighting. Apple added five colors, including pink, purple, orange, mint, and blue, with the colors able to be added through the formatting interface. Just tap on the Aa button to get to the color options when a word or phrase is selected.
Multiple colors can be used for the same sentence, and the colors can be used for titles and headings, as well as combined with text formatting like bold and italics.
Attach Files
The toolbar icon that lets you add images or scanned documents to a note has been updated to do more in iOS 18. Tapping on it allows you to attach a file from the Files app, which makes it much easier to add documents to a note. You can also use it to record audio, which is another new feature.
Before now, you had to copy and paste a file into notes to add it, a process that required several steps.
The prior Choose Photo or Video, Scan Documents, Take Photo or Video, and Scan Text options remain. To denote the new functionality, the icon for the tool is now a paperclip instead of a camera.
As an alternative to using the toolbar, you can long press on a note to attach a file, an option that wasn't previously available.
Notes Settings
If you tap on the icon that has three dots at the top right of a note, you can get to the Notes settings, where there are a number of new options.
You can see Recent Notes from this interface, with the Notes app displaying several of your prior notes for quick access. There's also a toggle for Math Notes for choosing between suggested results and results that are automatically inserted when an equals sign is typed, or turning the feature off.
Prior features for searching through the note, moving the note, adding lines and grids, and changing the attachment view are all still available.
Lock Screen Notes
In iOS 18, you can add Control Center controls to the Lock Screen. With this feature, you can add the option to open the Notes app into one of the slots that was previously taken up by the Flashlight and Camera, giving you an option for quickly jotting down your thoughts.
You could get to the Notes app from the Lock Screen previously, but it required going through Control Center.
Smart Script (iPadOS 18)
On the iPad, there's a new feature called Smart Script that's designed to improve your handwriting with the Apple Pencil. The feature uses machine learning to recreate your own handwriting style to refine what you've written, making messy writing look neater.
Smart Script doesn't change your handwriting, but it makes it smoother, straighter, and easier to read.
With Smart Script, you can also paste typed text into your own handwriting, correct handwritten spelling, touch and drag words to move them or change the spacing, and scribble out what you've written to erase it.
Writing Tools (Apple Intelligence)
Writing Tools is an Apple Intelligence feature that can improve your writing. It won't generate text from scratch for you, but it can proofread, help you rewrite to match a specific tone, and create summaries.
Proofread text for spelling and grammar errors, including word choice and sentence structure. You can accept all suggestions with a tap or go through them one by one with explanations.
Rewrite for cleaning up what you've written and shifting the tone without impacting your content. Options include Friendly, Professional, and Concise.
Options for selecting text and summarizing it. You can choose to create a paragraph, pull out key points, make a list, or create a table. Summaries are available in Mail, Messages, and more.
To use Writing Tools in the Notes app, all you need to do is write something, select your text, and then tap on the quick access Writing Tools options at the top of the keyboard or select Writing Tools by tapping on your selected text.
iPadOS 18 launch, but the feature will be coming in iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 updates that we expect to see in October.
Image Wand (Apple Intelligence)
The Notes app is designed to integrate with Image Playground, Apple's upcoming AI-powered image generation app. You will be able to have the Notes app create an image that goes along with what you've typed up, and on the iPad, you can make a rough sketch of what you want to include and then have Apple Intelligence generate a more polished version.
The feature that adds images into the Notes app is called Image Wand, and it's not yet clear when it will be implemented.
Read More
Additional information on new features that Apple has added in iOS 18 can be found in our iOS 18 roundup.
Related Roundups: iOS 18, iPadOS 18
Related Forums: iOS 18, iPadOS 18
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Apple Testing Four New M4 Macs Ahead of Fall Launch
Apple has ramped up testing of four new Mac models equipped with an M4 chip, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Apple is planning to refresh the MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac with M4 chips this year, and we could see the new models sometime in October.
The four machines have base-level M4 chips, according to developer logs. Three of the Macs have a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. The fourth machine has an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, which is not an M4 configuration that we've seen so far. All four of the M4 Macs have either 16GB or 32GB of Unified Memory.
iPad Pro models has a 9-core CPU and 10-core GPU, while the chip used in the 1TB and 2TB models has a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. The high-end iPad chip is the same chip that will be in some of the Mac models.
Gurman does not mention M4 Pro or M4 Max chips, which would be used in higher-end Mac mini and 14-inch MacBook Pro models, as well as the 16-inch MacBook Pro. M4 Pro and M4 Max chips would have a higher number of CPU and GPU cores, as well as more maximum memory.
It is not clear if Apple is only introducing lower-end models with the standard M4 chip, or if there are plans for M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max models but those higher-end chips simply weren't seen in the developer logs.
will be available with both M4 and M4 Pro chip options.
Related Roundups: iMac, MacBook Pro 14 & 16" , Mac mini
Buyer's Guide: iMac (Neutral), 14" & 16" MacBook Pro (Caution), Mac Mini (Caution)
Related Forums: iMac, MacBook Pro, Mac mini
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Meta Cancels High-End Mixed Reality Headset After Apple Vision Pro Struggles
Meta has canceled work on a high-end mixed reality headset that it was developing to compete with the Apple Vision Pro, reports The Information. Meta this week told employees to quit working on the device following a product review meeting that involved Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
The now-canceled device was slated for launch in 2027, and it was meant to be equipped with high-resolution micro OLED displays, which is what Apple used for the Vision Pro. Meta was aiming to sell the device for under $1,000, but that was not going to be possible with the high cost of the displays.
announced a Horizon OS platform for third-party hardware makers earlier this year.
reinvigorate the headset market and validate Zuckerberg's major push into the AR/VR space. Instead, Apple has struggled with consumer appeal, and interest in the Vision Pro has waned over time.
started dying down just a month after it launched, and fewer customers visited Apple retail stores for demonstrations. Apple cut Vision Pro shipments in April, and the company is unlikely to sell even 500,000 of the headsets in 2024. As a result, Apple has stopped work on a second-generation high-cost Vision Pro and is instead focusing on creating a lower-cost model with fewer features and a price closer to high-end iPhones.
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MacRumors Giveaway: Win an Apple Watch Series 9 From Southern Straps
For this week's giveaway, we've teamed up with Southern Straps to offer MacRumors readers a chance to win an Apple Watch Series 9. Southern Straps has been making high-quality bands for the Apple Watch for almost a decade now, and the company's selection of bands offer a great alternative to Apple's own bands, in styles that Apple does not offer.
Southern Straps has a wide selection of nylon bands that pair a comfortable design with a classic watch band style. After the Apple Watch came out in 2015, Southern Straps was the first company to make nylon Apple Watch bands, and with so many years of experience, it has had time to perfect the band design and construction.
Priced at $29, each Apple Watch band is made from a single piece of nylon that is doubled over, heat sealed, and stitched together for durability. The multi-step process makes sure that every band is going to hold up for multiple years to come, and there is a five-year warranty on bands.
There are 11 color options, ranging from solid colors in green, black, and sand, to striped options in aesthetic color combinations like blue and green, blue and orange, khaki and red, blue and white, black and gray, and the classic red, white, and blue.
Apple Watch Ultra 2.
Pegged spring bars are included with each band so that you're able to change the hardware if you get an Apple Watch in a new size or a new color. Southern Straps bands can be used on a daily basis for everything from work to working out.
Southern Straps is offering an Apple Watch Series 9 for one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the widget below and enter an email address. Email addresses will be used solely for contact purposes to reach the winner(s) and send the prize(s). You can earn additional entries by subscribing to our weekly newsletter, subscribing to our YouTube channel, following us on Twitter, following us on Instagram, following us on Threads, or visiting the MacRumors Facebook page.
U.S. residents who are 18 years or older, UK residents who are 18 years or older, and Canadian residents who have reached the age of majority in their province or territory are eligible to enter. All federal, state, provincial, and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. To offer feedback or get more information on the giveaway restrictions, please refer to our Site Feedback section, as that is where discussion of the rules will be redirected.
Southern Straps Giveaway
The contest will run from today (August 23) at 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time through 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time on August 30. The winner will be chosen randomly on or shortly after August 30 and will be contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond and provide a shipping address before a new winner is chosen.
Tag: Giveaway
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The MacRumors Show: The Latest Rumors for iPhone, Mac, and More in 2024
On this week's episode of The MacRumors Show, we catch up on all of the latest Apple rumors for the remainder of 2024.
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We discuss the iPhone 16 Pro's rumored "Desert Titanium" color option that's expected to replace Blue Titanium, the two fourth-generation AirPods variants coming later this year both with and without active noise cancellation, the Mac mini complete redesign with the M4 and M4 Pro chips, and M4 MacBook Pro refresh. We also take a look at rumors surrounding the third-generation AirPods Pro, the fourth-generation iPhone SE, and the likelihood of Apple Intelligence moving to a subscription model to boost Apple's services revenue.
The MacRumors Show has its own YouTube channel, so make sure you're subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips:
Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel!
Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or your preferred podcasts app. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your podcast player.
If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up for our discussion about Apple's unusual iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 betas that introduce Apple Intelligence for the first time.
MacRumors, often joined by interesting guests such as Luke Miani, Matthew Cassinelli, Brian Tong, Quinn Nelson, Kevin Nether, Jared Nelson, Eli Hodapp, Mike Bell, Sara Dietschy, iJustine, Jon Rettinger, Andru Edwards, Arnold Kim, Ben Sullins, Marcus Kane, Christopher Lawley, Frank McShan, David Lewis, Tyler Stalman, Jon Prosser, Sam Kohl, John Gruber, Federico Viticci, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo, and Rene Ritchie.
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Tag: The MacRumors Show
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'Cthulhu Stealer' macOS Malware Can Steal Keychain Passwords, Web Browsing Info, Crypto Wallets, and More
Apple's Macs are less targeted by malware than Windows PCs, but that doesn't mean they are immune. Increasingly, insidious types of Mac malware are being developed that have researchers concerned enough to issue public warnings, and that's the case again today.
As reported by Hacker News, Cado Security has identified a malware-as-a-service (MaaS) targeting macOS users named "Cthulhu Stealer." First spotted in late 2023, the malicious software is designed to steal sensitive information from infected Macs, such as saved passwords from iCloud Keychain, information from web browsers, and even details from Telegram accounts.
What's particularly concerning is that it's being sold as a service on the dark web for $500 per month, potentially allowing multiple bad actors to use it against unsuspecting Mac owners.
reports that Cthulhu Stealer disguises itself as popular software to trick users into installing it. It might appear as CleanMyMac, Grand Theft Auto IV, or even Adobe GenP (a tool some users employ to bypass Adobe's subscription model). The malware comes packaged as a disk image (DMG) file.
Atomic Stealer and MacStealer use similar tricks.
Once it has the necessary permissions, Cthulhu Stealer can access and steal a wide range of sensitive data. For crypto users, it specifically targets MetaMask digital wallet information. All of this stolen data is then sent to the attackers' servers.
Notably, reports suggest that whoever designed Cthulu Stealer is no longer active, apparently following disputes over payments and accusations of scamming their own customers, i.e. other cybercriminals who were using the malware.
While Cthulhu Stealer isn't the most sophisticated malware out there, it's still a significant threat to Mac users who might be tricked into installing it. General security pointers include only downloading software from trusted sources like the App Store or official developer websites, being wary of any app asking for your system password during installation, and keeping your Mac updated with the latest security patches from Apple.
released in mid-September, Apple plans to remove the ability to easily override Gatekeeper warnings by Control-clicking. Instead, users will need to go through System Settings to allow unsigned software to run, adding an extra step that might make users think twice before running potentially dangerous apps.
Tag: Malware
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Apple Podcasts Losing Market Share to YouTube and Spotify
Apple Podcasts, once the dominant platform for podcast listening, is experiencing a significant decline in popularity as competitors like YouTube and Spotify gain ground, according to a recent study by Cumulus Media and Signal Hill Insights.
"Podcast" is a portmanteau of "iPod" and "broadcast," indicating the format's indebtedness to Apple. However, the study reveals that the podcast landscape has changed dramatically since the company first popularized the medium in 2005 with the release of iTunes 4.9. YouTube is now the most popular platform for podcast consumption in the United States, with 31% of respondents reporting it as their primary choice. Spotify follows at 21%, while Apple Podcasts has dropped to third place with only 12% of the market share.
This is in stark contrast to Apple's position just a few years ago. In July 2019, 29% of weekly podcast listeners primarily used Apple Podcasts. Several factors appear to be contributing to Apple Podcasts' waning popularity. Apple Podcasts didn't generate direct revenue for the company until recently, when in 2021 it introduced podcast subscriptions, of which Apple takes a cut.
Apple Podcasts web app may go some way to mitigate this issue.
The rising popularity of video podcasts has also given platforms like YouTube a significant advantage, while Apple Podcasts has shown no willingness to push video at all. Indeed, it's unclear whether the company is working on any major updates or features to compete more effectively with the more visual take on the medium offered by YouTube and Spotify.
Despite the decline, Apple Podcasts still has the advantage of coming pre-installed on all Apple devices, giving it a large potential user base. However, Apple may need to rethink its strategy by emphasizing video podcast content, adding more monetization options for podcasters, and attracting new and younger listeners to the platform.
iOS 18, Apple's Podcasts app now shows chapter segments of a podcast when you scrub through a currently playing episode, making it easier to browse through the audio content, but there are no major new podcast features in the latest version of Apple's mobile operating system.
Tag: Apple Podcasts
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Google Maps Loses Two Tabs Out of Five in Bottom Bar Redesign
Google Maps is rolling out a redesigned bottom bar to iPhones that aims to give the app a less cluttered look by reducing the number of tabs on the screen.
Old Google Maps bottom bar (left) vs. new one
Previously only on Android, the new bottom bar reduces the number of tabs from five to three. As spotted by 9to5Google, "Go" has been removed, but users can still access it using a new "You" middle tab, via a new "Saved trips" section therein.
"You" was previously called "Saved," and retains the same bookmark icon. But tapping it takes you to an updated page with new top tabs for "Notifications" and "Messages," both of which serve content that was previously found in the "Updates" tab, now removed. That leaves "Contribute" as the last tab of the three on the main maps screen.
Apple Maps vs. Google Maps: Which Is Better?
Tag: Google Maps
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macOS Sequoia Slated to Launch in Mid-September Alongside iOS 18
macOS Sequoia, the newest version of the operating system that runs on the Mac, is set to launch in mid-September, MacRumors has learned. While Apple's iOS updates are consistently introduced in September, macOS launch dates vary, and new Mac updates have been released in September, October, and November in recent years.
This year, Apple plans to release macOS Sequoia around the same time as iOS 18 rather than holding it until October. Introducing both updates at the same time will ensure that cross-platform features are functional and working as intended, such as iPhone Mirroring. A key new feature, iPhone Mirroring allows an iPhone running iOS 18 to be controlled using a Mac running macOS Sequoia.
Other new features coming to macOS Sequoia include refreshed window tiling capabilities, a dedicated Passwords app, and updates to Safari, Messages, Maps, Notes, and more.
Apple Intelligence features will not be in macOS Sequoia or iOS 18 at launch, with Apple instead introducing the functionality in subsequent iOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1 updates. We expect to see those updates released in October.
Apple is in the final stages of beta testing macOS Sequoia and iOS 18 ahead of its annual fall iPhone-focused event. If Apple sticks with the timing that it has used for the last several years, the most likely event date is September 10. If that's the event date, new iPhones could launch a week later on September 20. New iOS updates typically come out on the Wednesday before new iPhones launch, so with that timeline, we could see iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia on September 18.
Related Roundup: macOS Sequoia
Related Forum: macOS Sequoia
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Nintendo Shutting Down Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp App, Plans to Release Paid Offline Version
Nintendo today announced that it will shut down the Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp app for iOS on November 29, seven years after the game originally launched. Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp is a freemium app that Nintendo has regularly been adding new content to through ongoing events, so there are players with money invested in the game.
There will be no more events or updates with the Pocket Camp service being discontinued, but Nintendo will release a paid version of Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp so that existing users can continue to play an offline version of the game. The paid version will allow saves to be transferred over, but it will not support visiting and interacting with other players or receiving gifts. It will not have in-app purchases nor will it require an online connection.
Pocket Camp users who have purchased Leaf Tickets, the in-game currency, can redeem them through November 28. Leaf Tickets not used by that date will expire. Pocket Camp Club subscriptions will be ending on October 28, but Nintendo will continue providing the associated benefits until Pocket Camp shuts down.
Tag: Nintendo
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Apple Releases New AirPods Pro 2 Beta Firmware With Support for iOS 18 Features
Apple today released a new firmware update for the AirPods Pro 2, including both the Lightning and USB-C versions. The firmware has a build number of 7A5290a, up from 7A5266c, and it is available to developers at the current time. This is the fourth firmware update that Apple has released since announcing new AirPods Pro 2 features in June.
There are multiple features that are coming to the AirPods Pro 2 as part of iOS 18, and these features are included in the firmware update.
Siri on the AirPods Pro with a shake or a nod of the head. If you get a phone call, for example, you can shake your head no if you don't want to answer it, or nod to accept the call. Siri interactions can be used for responding to incoming messages, calls, and notifications.
Apple is adding Voice Isolation to the AirPods Pro to cut down on loud background sounds to make you easier to hear, and there is a new Personalized Spatial Audio feature specific to gaming. Game developers will be able to incorporate spatial audio into their games for a more immersive audio experience.
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Apple to Require Identity Verification for Sending $500+ in Apple Cash Starting in October
Apple today began sending out emails to customers letting them know about upcoming changes that are being made to the Apple Cash Terms and Conditions.
iOS 18 and watchOS 11 introduce Tap to Cash, a feature that allows users to exchange Apple Cash in person by holding an iPhone or Apple Watch near another iPhone or Apple Watch. As part of this feature implementation, Apple is changing the identity verification rules surrounding Apple Cash.
Starting on October 4, Apple will require that iPhone and Apple Watch users verify their identity to send more than a total of $500 in peer-to-peer transfers, which includes sending Apple Cash via Messages and making Tap to Cash payments. Identity verification is required whether sending money from an Apple Cash balance or from a supported card in the Wallet app. Prior transactions will count toward the limit that will trigger identity verification.
already requires identity verification for Apple Cash for those who use the feature frequently. Apple's support document says that users cannot add or receive $500 or more in total without identity verification, so it sounds like verification will also be required when sending large amounts of money as of October.
Identify verification for Apple Cash involves taking photos of a driver's license or ID card, as well as answering personal history questions and providing information like home address, date of birth, and social security number.
Identity verification for sending payments makes sense as Tap to Cash will allow money to be exchanged without being accompanied by personal information like phone number. Tap to Cash is designed for private in-person transactions where Apple Cash is exchanged.
within a 7-day period.
Tags: Apple Cash, Tap to Cash
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iPhone 16 Lineup to Introduce Wave of Camera Improvements
The iPhone 16 lineup will feature a significant number of new camera features and capabilities, AppleInsider reports.
Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models are rumored to step up the iPhone's photography and videography functions, including upgraded hardware such as 48-megapixel sensor on the Pro models' ultra wide camera and software such as macro photography for the standard models and an all-new image format. Reiterating some previous rumors, the report claims that:
The iPhone 16's main camera will remain the same as that of the iPhone 15 with a 48-megapixel sensor and a f/1.6 aperture, and there are unlikely to be changes to the unit on subsequent generations through to 2026.
The iPhone 16's ultra wide camera will gain a f/2.2 aperture, up from the f/2.4 aperture on the previous generation, to improve low-light performance.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus may support macro photography for the first time. The feature is currently exclusive to the Pro models.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will continue to feature a 48-megapixel main camera with an f/1.78 aperture.
The iPhone 16 Pro will gain the 5x tetraprism telephoto camera introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro Max last year, replacing the current 3x telephoto camera.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature an upgraded ultra wide camera with a 48-megapixel sensor, with the same pixel-binning feature as the main camera. It will have an f/2.2 aperture, up from f/2.4, for significantly improved low-light performance and support 48-megapixel ProRaw photography.
Apple will introduce a new image format called "JPEG-XL," sitting alongside HEIF, JPEG, HEIF Max, ProRaw, and ProRAW Max.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will support 3K video at 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision.
A new capacitive "Capture" button will be introduced on all four models, designed to be used exclusively by camera apps. Users will apparently be able to select which camera app the button opens, including third-party ones.
The Capture button offers a force-sensitive half-press tied to a developer API that could, for example, lock exposure and focus, before fully depressing the button to take a photo.
Sliding along the capacitive button will also perform different actions. This gesture will tout a developer API.
our comprehensive roundup for more information.
Related Roundups: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro
Tag: AppleInsider
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