The CultCast

New MacBook Pros Likely to Launch at Apple Event This Month, Says Gurman

In his latest newsletter, Gurman says Apple y is poised to announce the M1X powered MacBook Pros within the next month, noting that "Apple typically does its major new Mac introductions in October. So stay tuned."

How to get ready to pre-order Apple Watch Series 7

The time when you can preorder the next generation of Apple Watch is drawing close. Apple will start taking people’s money at exactly 5 a.m. PDT this Friday, Oct. 8.

Apple stays strangely silent on most Apple Watch Series 7 prices

Apple Watch Series 7 launches Friday but pricing information for most configurations remains a mystery less than a day from the debut. All Apple has revealed so far is that the base model is $399.

Win a bundle of iPhone 13 cases from Case-Mate [Cult of Mac giveaway]

If you just bought the latest iPhone 13 and need some new cases, this week’s giveaway is for you. Case-Mate is giving away five of its most popular cases that are both pretty and protective.

Today in Apple history: Steve Jobs dies at 56

October 5, 2011: Apple co-founder Steve Jobs dies at the age of 56 in his home in Palo Alto, California. Jobs’ official cause of death is respiratory arrest arising from complications related to a rare type of pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed with the cancer eight years earlier, and officially stepped down from his role as Apple CEO in August 2011.

Tim Cook reflects on Steve Jobs’ legacy on 10th anniversary of his passing

This week, Tim Cook sent a memo to all employees about his former boss and friend. In it, he says that Jobs’ passion to change the world for the better lives on in the company.

Apple pays touching tribute to Steve Jobs a decade after his passing

Apple today commemorates its co-founder and former CEO Steve Jobs ten years after he passed away from pancreatic cancer. The company’s homepage has been adorned with images of Jobs throughout his years at Apple, as well as an official film and a statement from the Jobs family.

Jony Ive on What He Misses Most About Steve Jobs

My memories of that brutal, heartbreaking day 10 years ago are scattered and random. I cannot remember driving down to his house. I do remember a hazy October sky and shoes that were too tight. I remember afterwards Tim and I sat quietly in the garden together for a long time.

Direct download: cultcast_513.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:56pm PDT

Thu, 30 September 2021

Our one week review of iPhone 13/Pro - REAL TALK... (CultCast #512)

This week: we've been using our iPhone 13/Pros for one week now—here are our honest reviews! Plus: iOS 15, bugs galore! We'll cover all the major iOS 15 and iPhone 13 bugs you need to know about.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 13, Apple Watch, iPad, glasses and lenses sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CarryCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

iPhone 13 Pro truly is the Goldilocks phone [Review]

Is there such a thing as the fabled Goldilocks phone? You know, a phone that is just right? Not too big. Not too small. Great camera and screen. Amazing battery life.

iPhone 13 component shortage lengthens wait times

Production of the new iPhone 13 series isn’t catching up to demand. A shortage of a critical component is keeping wait times long for many versions of the handset.

Can’t wait for an iPhone 13? Win one!!!

New iPhone 13 cases and accessories in the Cult of Mac Store

Apple vows to fix iPhone 13 bug that breaks Unlock with Apple Watch

Apple has promised to fix an iPhone 13 bug that prevents owners from using Unlock with Apple Watch. In the meantime, users can disable the feature to prevent an “Unable to Communicate with Apple Watch” error from appearing.

iPhone owners suffer intermittent touch input issues under iOS 15

Some iPhone models are being plagued by touchscreen issues under Apple’s newest iOS 15 firmware. The problem, which seems to affect iPhone 13 owners most, causes devices to not respond to touch inputs.

iOS 15 problems continue as iPhone 13 owners report CarPlay crashes

The long list of problems that have surfaced in iOS 15 continues to grow as iPhone 13 owners report new issues with CarPlay. Some say they are unable to play tracks in Apple Music or third-party apps like Spotify without the system crashing completely. There are some fixes you can try, like disabling the equalizer if it’s active, that may solve the problem.

iPhone 14 Coming With “Complete Redesign” Next Year, Says Mark Gurman

Direct download: cultcast_512.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:58pm PDT

Thu, 23 September 2021

#510 - iPhone 13 and iPad mini - The good, the bad, the ugly!

This week: the early reviews are in—let’s talk about the best and worst parts of iPhone 13, 13 Pro, and the iPad mini. Plus: Apple is prepping yet another great feature coming soon to your HomePod—it ain’t dead yet, baby!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

iPhone 13 review roundup: Stellar displays, cracking cameras, outstanding battery life

BRO WTF. The iPhone 13 Pro Might Not Work With MagSafe Duo Because of Its Fat Ass. LMFAO. - FrontPageTech.com

iPhone 13 Pro photos by Austin Mann

Win iPhone 13 and a bundle of MagSafe-compatible cases from Speck [Cult of Mac giveaway]

For this week’s giveaway, we teamed up with Speck to offer Cult of Mac readers the chance to win an iPhone 13 and a bundle of three of Speck's nifty MagSafe-compatible cases.

2021 iPad mini review roundup: Splendidly small yet super-powerful

Spoiler alert: Yes, the 2021 iPad mini is worth every penny of its $499 price tag. Critics love its form factor, which, despite being small enough to go with you everywhere, still leaves enough room for productivity, games and media.

Lossless audio and Dolby Atmos return to HomePod in 15.1 beta

Apple’s newest HomePod beta, issued alongside the iOS and iPadOS 15.1 betas on Tuesday, brings back lossless audio and Dolby Atmos support. Both features can be enabled from inside the Home app, but only if you have an invite.

Direct download: cultcast_511.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:53pm PDT

Thu, 16 September 2021

California Streaming reactions + iPhone 13 Vs. 13 Pro! (CultCast #510)

This week: reacting to iPhone 13 and 13 Pro, iPad mini, and and what the h-e-double hockey sticks happened to Apple Watch Series 7?!

Plus: iPhone 13 Vs. iPhone 13 Pro - what you need to know before you buy!

Get 2-3 episodes of CultCast Off Topic each and every week for just $6! Off Topic is a new weekly variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah and friends, dedicated to tech, gaming, culture, and more. Join Cult Support, good friend!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

iPhone 13’s Cinematic mode marks new era in computational photography

Of all the things Apple revealed Tuesday, to me the most impressive was the iPhone 13’s new Cinematic mode. The depth-of-field effect creates amazing focus transitions between subjects.

Win one year of unlimited cloud backup from Backblaze [Cult of Mac giveaway]

Apple Watch Series 7 looks like a late substitution for the upgrade Apple wanted to deliver

Apple Watch Series 7 is not the upgrade most of us expected to see from Tuesday’s Apple event. The new model doesn’t sport the big design refresh multiple sources said was coming. It doesn’t even pack a new chip.

Apple Watch Series 7 Tidbits: S7 Chip, Storage Remains 32GB, USB-C Fast Charging Cable in the Box, and More

MacRumors can confirm several details about the Series 7 not currently shared by Apple. First, the Apple Watch Series 7 is indeed powered with an S7 branded chip, which Apple indicates will offer the same 20% advantage in performance compared to the S5 chip found in the Apple Watch SE and Series 5 as the Apple Watch Series 6 did.

New budget iPad 9 gets better video chat, doubles storage

On the inside is an Apple A13 processor, an improvement over the A12 in its predecessor. Apple promises that brings 20% faster CPU and GPU performance.

iPad mini gets its biggest, most amazing upgrade yet

Apple today surprised us with a brand-new 2021 iPad mini — its best compact tablet to date. It sports a gorgeous new design inspired by iPad Pro, an Liquid Retina display, and a blazing-fast A15 Bionic chip with 5G connectivity.

What's Still Coming in 2021 at Apple's Second Fall Event

Direct download: cultcast_510.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:14pm PDT

Thu, 9 September 2021

iPhone 13/Apple Watch 7/New Macs - Our California Streaming event predictions! (CultCast #509)

This week: iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, AirPods 3, Apple Watch Series 7, and... more? We're talking hardware predictions for next week's "California Streaming" Apple event.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

It’s official: Apple confirms iPhone 13 event for September 14

Apple today confirmed it will host its next big keynote on Tuesday, September 14. The “California streaming” event will likely be focused on iPhone 13, as well as Apple Watch Series 7 and a possible third-generation AirPods upgrade.

Leaker Max Weinbach releases new details on next week’s hardware drop

GIVEAWAY!

This week, Cult of Mac is giving away four Origami Protective Cases for iPad from SwitchEasy. This versatile iPad case folds in four different ways to make it easy to type, read or browse your iPad.

Spoiler alert: Here’s a sneak peek at next year’s ‘iPhone 14

Yes, you heard that right: iPhone 14 will be the first to pack an edge-to-edge display with no notch, according to Jon Prosser of Front Page Tech. Renders produced by wunderkind Ian Zelbo, based on leaks from Prosser’s sources, suggest next year’s iPhone will instead feature one small “hole punch” cutout for its front-facing camera — like many modern Android devices.

iPhone 14 leak could trigger full wrath of Cupertino

Jon Prosser’s iPhone 14 leak is every Apple fan’s dream — and Tim Cook’s biggest nightmare. The audacious revelation, dropped Wednesday morning via Prosser’s YouTube channel, Front Page Tech, showcased what next year’s iPhone 14 Pro Max might look like.

Direct download: cultcast_509.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:39pm PDT

Thu, 2 September 2021

iPhone 13's secret satellite trick! (CultCast #508!)

This week: iPhone 13 has a secret satellite trick that will give you signal anywhere on earth! Plus: sorry, Apple Watch Series 7 might be a much smaller update than we’ve been told… And a radical new South Korean law is forcing Apple to open up their app store, and other countries are now sure to follow. And, sadly, it couldn’t last forever.... It sounds like our beloved Tim Cook is eyeing his retirement from Apple. So who at Apple will take the reins next? We got it all figured out!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Rumored iPhone satellite communications could be for serious emergencies only

News that the iPhone 13 will be able to exchange texts and phone calls with low Earth orbit satellites first came from respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo over the weekend. And on Monday Mark Gurman from Bloomberg seconded the report. But he said it’ll be strictly for serious emergencies only.

’No chance’ Apple Watch Series 7 will pack blood pressure monitoring

There is “no chance” Apple Watch Series 7 will be able to monitor your blood pressure, despite recent claims that the next-generation device has been delayed to accommodate this feature, according to one reliable reporter.

Get organized with a PadFolio from tomtoc [Cult of Mac giveaway]

This week, Cult of Mac is giving away six practical and protective PadFolio Cases for your iPad Pro from tomtoc. Designed to carry your 12.9-inch iPad Pro, keyboard, chargers, dongles and all your necessary accessories, this case will protect your iPad Pro while keeping everything in place.

South Korea is first to say App Store must allow third-party payments

South Korea has become the first country to tell Apple that it must open up the App Store to third-party payment platforms. The same law also applies to Google, and other countries likely will implement similar rules.

Apple agrees to relax App Store rules for ‘reader’ apps like Netflix, Spotify

Apple will relax App Store rules for “reader” apps that let users access previously purchased content and subscriptions for books, magazines, music and more, the company said Wednesday.

Submissions fall to all-time low as devs lose interest in Mac App Store

Developers are seemingly losing interest in bringing their titles to the Mac App Store, with new submissions steadily declining since the beginning of 2021. There were fewer than 300 new releases for the first time ever in July.

Apple AR glasses launch could mark end of Tim Cook era

Tim Cook took over as CEO from Steve Jobs almost exactly 10 years ago. He’s 60 years old, and has been at Apple for 23 years, and it sounds like he’s considering his exit strategy.

Direct download: cultcast_508.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:01pm PDT

Thu, 26 August 2021

The new 14" MacBook Pro—you want the good or bad news first? (CultCast #507)

This week: If you're excited about the new 14" Macbook Pro, well, we got good news and bad news for you.... Plus: sweet heat! iPhone 13 may be packing Apple's next-GEN FaceID, and it has a special trick. Plus plus: hold on to your cheeks, cause now we got the launch date for you. And stay tuned for our roundup of iOS 15's best new HomeKit and iCloud+ features!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

14-inch MacBook Pro could be just as fast, almost as pricey as 16-inch model

The next-generation 14-inch MacBook Pro will be nearly identical to the 16-inch model that launches alongside it in terms of performance, according to one tipster. Both machines are expected to feature the same M1X chip.

iPhone 13 could land September 17, AirPods 3 soon after

The wait for Apple’s next-generation iPhone lineup could be over in less than a month. A new report, citing information from a Chinese retailer, claims iPhone 13 will make its big debut on September 17, followed by AirPods 3.

Yep! iPhone 13 Pre-Orders Starting September 17th, Launch on September 24th

That being said, I would usually insert my usual “take it with a grain of many butt hairs” and you still should, BUTT 🍑, since this date is not only lining up with what our own sources said and with Apple’s traditional pre-pandemic schedule of a September launch date timeframe, take it with a smol speck of butt hair, because these dates are looking right.

EXCLUSIVE: Apple Testing New iPhone 13 Face ID

Apple has developed new Face ID hardware that they are currently testing with a COVID-like landscape in mind, according to sources.

Faster ‘M1X’ Mac mini with more ports coming ‘in the next several months’

Apple’s “high-end, M1X Mac mini” will launch “in the next several months,” according to the latest Power On newsletter from Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman. “It will have an updated design and more ports.”

Apple could host multiple events in September for a bunch of new products

Last year, Apple staggered its fall events over September, October and November. But according to some sources, it will unleash a barrage of hardware within just a few weeks this time around.

What's New With HomeKit in iOS 15

iCloud+ subscribers can now create custom email domains

iCloud+ subscribers can now start using custom domain names with iCloud Mail. The new feature, announced at WWDC 2021 alongside iOS and iPadOS 15, just rolled out in beta with support for up to five custom domains.

Direct download: cultcast_507_8-26-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:27pm PDT

Thu, 19 August 2021

HomePods getting BIG upgrades + our Foundation trailer reactions! (CultCast #506)

This week: Apple’s about to bring two powerful new features to your beloved HomePods—they just keep making them better! Plus: the big problem with AirPods Max; a proposed law would force profound changes on Apple App Store; Applecare+ get some big changes; and we react to the new Foundation trailers, the Apple’s epic new sci-fi coming to AppleTV+.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Netflix gets more immersive with Spatial Audio support

Netflix has begun rolling out Spatial Audio support. This lets the streaming service offer a surround sound-like experience but without all the speakers. Currently, it requires AirPods Pro or AirPods Max but that’ll change soon.

HomePod beta brings Dolby Atmos and lossless music support

Dolby Atmos (spatial audio) and lossless music are on their way to HomePod and HomePod mini. Both features are available for testing in Apple’s latest HomePod 15 beta, rolled out to registered developers on Thursday.

Proposed law would force profound changes on Apple App Store

Apple currently puts up significant roadblocks to sideloading — installing applications onto an iPhone or iPad from a Mac. The Open App Markets Act would require Apple to allow sideloading.

Apple now offers annual AppleCare+ subscriptions for new Mac owners

Apple recently updated its AppleCare+ for Mac price structure, allowing new owners to purchase the extended coverage as an annual subscription instead of a three-year up front commitment.

Apple now allows AppleCare+ for Mac to continue beyond three years

In certain major territories, including the U.S., Apple will now let users keep AppleCare+ for Mac active beyond its original three-year limit.

‘Wool’: Tim Robbins Joins Rebecca Ferguson In Apple TV+ Series

Wool is a set in a ruined and toxic future where a community exists in a giant silo underground, hundreds of stories deep. There, men and women live in a society full of regulations they believe are meant to protect them.

Apple TV+ presents trailer for eagerly anticipated series “Foundation,” set to premiere around the world on Friday, September 24, 2021

Apple TV+ today released the trailer for “Foundation,” the highly anticipated epic saga based on Isaac Asimov’s timeless trilogy of the same name. Revealing a deeper look than ever before at the unprecedented adaptation, the trailer invites audiences across the galaxy to embark on a thrilling and emotional journey following a band of exiles who discover that the only way to save the Galactic Empire from destruction is to defy it.

Direct download: cultcast_506.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:01pm PDT

Fri, 13 August 2021

Here it is, ALL the iPhone 13 details. Plus: Is Apple snooping through your photos? (CultCast #505)

This week: We got it, ALL the iPhone 13 details. We’ll tell you what to expect. Plus, the Apple Privacy debacle—is Apple scanning all your photos and the pictures you send in iMessages? The answer is yes... and no. We got the cold hard facts for you, and you may not like them.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Mini-LED MacBook Pros launching before the end of September

The long wait for redesigned 16-inch and 14-inch MacBook Pro models is probably nearing its end. A reliable source for Apple info says these Macs will be out in September at the latest, and will have mini-LED screens.

iPhone 13 could bring ProMotion display, camera upgrades, smaller notch

This year’s iPhone refresh could be a lot more exciting than the incremental upgrades we’ve seen in previous years. A new report claims Apple’s next-generation smartphone lineup — which could be called iPhone 13 — will bring faster ProMotion displays, pro camera upgrades, and a smaller notch.

Apple plans to scan iPhones and iCloud for child abuse imagery [Updated]

Apple plans to scan photos stored on peoples’ iPhones and in their iCloud accounts for imagery suggesting child abuse, according to news reports Thursday. The effort might aid in law-enforcement investigations, but also could invite controversial access to user data by government agencies.

Apple looks to ease CSAM photo scanning concerns with new FAQ

Apple has published a new FAQ on its plan to scan user photos for child abuse imagery (CSAM) in an effort to combat the growing concerns.

iPhone Messages app will warn parents if kids send, receive nude photos

Apple will soon offer a new tool to protect children from sexual predators. The Messages application will be able to detect if an iPhone or iPad user gets or sends sexually explicit photos.

Apple TV, HomePod combo on the way to combat weak living room strategy

Apple TV engineers say “there isn’t much optimism” over the company’s weak living room hardware strategy, but there plans to change it with new devices, according to a new report from one reliable reporter.

Direct download: cultcast_505_8-12-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am PDT

Thu, 5 August 2021

Here they come — ALL the “Pro” Macs! (CultCast #504)

This week: now that the M1 Macs are out, Apple is prepping to release a barrage of “Pro” Macs, including MacBook Pros, a Mac Mini Pro, a Mac Pro mini, and a powerhouse new Mac Pro with up to 40 cores. Hold on to your buns!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple Watch 7, new Mac upgrades appear in regulatory filings ahead of launch

A number of new Apple devices including Apple Watch Series 7 and two new MacBook Pro models have appeared in regulatory filings ahead of an official unveiling. The listings suggest we could see a launch in the near future.

Think Apple Silicon is exciting now? Just wait and see what’s to come

Apple just reported a hugely successful quarter for the Mac — one of its best ever — and it looks like it’s only going to get better. A new report detailing the company’s Apple Silicon roadmap says the best is yet to come.

HomePod smart speaker had a great quarter in the US

HomePod shipments in the United States increased 180% year-on-year in the last quarter, eclipsing the growth of smart speaker makers Amazon and Google during the period, market intelligence firm Omdia reports.

Apple Working on Combined TV Box, Speaker to Revive Home Efforts

The company is working on a product that would combine an Apple TV set-top box with a HomePod speaker and include a camera for video conferencing through a connected TV and other smart-home functions, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified discussing internal matters.

Brendan Fraser Boards Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon’ & Legendary Comedy ‘Brothers’

EXCLUSIVE: Brendan Fraser (No Sudden Move) has joined the casts of Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon and Max Barbakow’s Brothers.

Apple.com gets a redesigned Store section with its very own tab

Apple on Tuesday rolled out a fresh new look for its online store, with a dedicated “Store” tab that makes everything easier to find. The company calls it “the best way to buy the products you love.”

Direct download: cultcast_504.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:55pm PDT

Thu, 5 August 2021

Here they come — ALL the “Pro” Macs! (CultCast #504)

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple Watch 7, new Mac upgrades appear in regulatory filings ahead of launch

A number of new Apple devices including Apple Watch Series 7 and two new MacBook Pro models have appeared in regulatory filings ahead of an official unveiling. The listings suggest we could see a launch in the near future.

Think Apple Silicon is exciting now? Just wait and see what’s to come

Apple just reported a hugely successful quarter for the Mac — one of its best ever — and it looks like it’s only going to get better. A new report detailing the company’s Apple Silicon roadmap says the best is yet to come.

HomePod smart speaker had a great quarter in the US

HomePod shipments in the United States increased 180% year-on-year in the last quarter, eclipsing the growth of smart speaker makers Amazon and Google during the period, market intelligence firm Omdia reports.

Apple Working on Combined TV Box, Speaker to Revive Home Efforts

The company is working on a product that would combine an Apple TV set-top box with a HomePod speaker and include a camera for video conferencing through a connected TV and other smart-home functions, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified discussing internal matters.

Brendan Fraser Boards Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon’ & Legendary Comedy ‘Brothers’

EXCLUSIVE: Brendan Fraser (No Sudden Move) has joined the casts of Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon and Max Barbakow’s Brothers.

Apple.com gets a redesigned Store section with its very own tab

Apple on Tuesday rolled out a fresh new look for its online store, with a dedicated “Store” tab that makes everything easier to find. The company calls it “the best way to buy the products you love.”

Direct download: cultcast_504.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:55pm PDT

Thu, 29 July 2021

New AirPods, New iMacs, new MacBook Airs! (CultCast #503)

This week: we got hot new intel on AirPods 3, new ‘Pro” iMacs, and MacBook Air. Plus: Apple’s planning to bring FaceID to EVERYTHING, and we discuss the most insane parts of Apple’s latest financial call.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

AirPods 3 https://twitter.com/dylandkt/status/1419103317683212290 https://twitter.com/dylandkt/status/1414645969216495619

Twitter leaker @dylandkt reports bad news for iMac, good news for Airpods 3 https://twitter.com/dylandkt

iMac M1X https://twitter.com/dylandkt/status/1418602808010584066

Smile! Face ID may come to Mac in the next couple of years

Apple aims to bring Face ID to Mac within the next couple of years, reports Mark Gurman in his weekend “Power On” newsletter for Bloomberg.

Markus Gurman: Face ID Coming to the Mac, All iPhones and iPads Within ‘Couple of Years'

In his latest edition of “Power On,” Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple plans to bring Face ID to the Mac in another super vague, strange timeframe. Okay, in all seriousness, he says the next ‘couple of years.’ Let’s just be happy that’s not the ‘next few decades.’

Mini-LED MacBook Air likely to arrive in mid-2022

Apple’s new MacBook Air with 13.3-inch Mini-LED display will debut in mid-2022, says respected TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo in a new note to clients, seen by Cult of Mac.

Smashed records, short supplies and other takeaways from Apple’s record Q3

Apple just revealed that its made heaps of money last quarter. It broke all kinds of revenue records, and Mac, iPhone and iPad contributed strongly to the total.

Direct download: cultcast_503.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:02pm PDT

Thu, 22 July 2021

iPhone 13 & MacBook Pro—we got more details! (CultCast #502)

This week: we got new intel on iPhone 13, MacBook Pro, and the next iPad mini, and you’re gonna like what you hear. Plus an Apple partner demos tech reportedly coming to Apple Watch, and it’s totally insane.

Get 2-3 episodes of CultCast Off Topic each and every week for just $6! Off Topic is a new weekly variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah and friends, decidated to tech, gaming, culture, and more. Join Cult Support, good friend!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

iPhone 13 event rumored for September 14, Apple expectations sky high

In a Wednesday note to clients, seen by Cult of Mac, Wedbush analyst Dan Ives suggests Apple is gearing up to produce between 90 million and 100 million iPhone 13 units. That’s a 15% increase year-on-year over the iPhone 12, whose initial orders were for 80 million units.

iPhone 13 could be Apple’s first with an ‘always on’ display

“Apple has tasked suppliers with building up to 90 million new iPhones for this fall,” Gurman wrote. “That’s a 20% increase over the 75 million units Apple planned for the iPhone 12 in 2020 — despite only readying mostly minor changes. Expect a faster A15 chip, smaller notch, a new display for better battery life and the potential of an Apple Watch-like always on mode and a 120Hz refresh rate and upgrades to video recording.”

'iPhone 13 Pro' to come in new colors, including bronze-like 'Sunset Gold'

An apparent supply chain leak is corroborating rumors that Apple's higher-end "iPhone 13" models could be offered in new colors like "sunset gold," matte black and a pale rose gold.

Next iPad mini may get oversized speed boost from Apple A15 processor

The much-anticipated iPad mini 6 will boast the Apple A15 processor, according to an unconfirmed report. That should bring a significant performance increase. And the tablet will allegedly have a USB-C port and a Smart Connector.

Gurman: MacBook Pro with miniLED display coming between September-November

Apple supplier launches non-invasive glucose monitor & health sensor tech

A new "clinic-on-the-wrist" digital health system from Apple supplier Rockley Photonics backs up expectations that the Apple Watch will ultimately gain non-invasive glucose monitoring.

Direct download: cultcast_502.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:16pm PDT

Fri, 16 July 2021

Magsafe Battery reveals iPhone 12’s hidden feature + iPhone 13 loses in-screen touch ID! (CultCast #501)

This week: Apple’s new Magsafe Battery Pack CONFIRMS iPhone 12 has a very cool hidden feature, and we discuss if the Magsafe Battery is worth its steep $100 price.

Plus: Gurman confirms iPhone 13’s feature set, and, BAD NEWS, in-screen Touch ID didn't make the cut…

And stay for one of our weirdest stories ever: why Apple’s iOS weather app won’t show 69 degrees. Lol. Yeah….

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple launches MagSafe Battery Pack for iPhone 12 series

On its website Tuesday, Apple offered a new MagSafe Battery Pack, designed to work with the iPhone 12 series from mini to Pro Max. That is, it’s designed to work as of the release of iOS 14.7, due imminently.

Apple Seeks Up to 20% Increase in New iPhone Production for 2021

Apple Inc. has asked suppliers to build as many as 90 million next-generation iPhones this year, a sharp increase from its 2020 iPhone shipments, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The shares jumped to a record.

Larger iMac ‘en route’ and could bring even faster ‘M2X’ chip

A larger iMac powered by Apple Silicon is “en route” and could feature an even faster “M2X” chip, according to reporter Mark Gurman.

Apple could bring 1080p FaceTime cameras to all next-gen Mac models

Apple is planning to bring high-definition FaceTime cameras to all next-generation Mac models, one tipster claims. The move will start with the upcoming MacBook Pro refresh, expected later this year.

Apple’s iPhone Weather app is hilariously prudish

You can be certain it’s never 69 degrees in Cupertino. Never. In what might be a somewhat amazing level of prudishness, Apple’s default iPhone Weather app reportedly will not indicate that the temperature is one degree warmer than 68.

Direct download: cultcast_501.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:19am PDT

Thu, 8 July 2021

M2 AND M1X Macs incoming + Woz pushes Apple for right to repair! (CultCast #500!)

This week: a reliable source says M2 Macs are right around the corner, and M1X will be the pro variant chip we’ve been hoping for! We got all the details. Plus: Woz says it’s time for Apple to embrace Right To Repair, and the Biden admin’s new rules may force Apple to support it.

And big ERF’s back with an Apple stock update—this is a big one!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Win an AirTag dog collar for worry-free adventure [Cult of Mac giveaway]

If you have a dog that runs away or just doesn’t listen, this week’s giveaway is for you. The CollarTrek dog collar securely holds an AirTag in place, making sure Fido’s location is easily trackable at all times.

Apple’s next-gen M2 chips could roll out in early 2022

The tipster, known as Dylandkt, has an 81.3% accuracy rating according to Apple Track based on 16 previous rumors. Dylandkt said the M2 chip will be released alongside “the upcoming colorful MacBook Air.”

U.S. President Joe Biden to Direct FTC to Draft Right to Repair Rules

President Joe Biden plans to direct the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to create new right to repair rules that would affect tech companies like Apple, reports Bloomberg.

Steve Wozniak speaks on Right to Repair

Original HomePods reportedly ‘bricked’ by 14.6 software update

Recent reports suggest owners of the original HomePod should steer clear of the device’s software version 14.6 and the newer version 15 update for beta users.

Warren Buffett’s premature Apple selloff cost his firm $20 billion

Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway firm has long invested in Apple, with Buffett once saying that, “I don’t think of Apple as a stock. I think of it as our third business. It’s probably the best business I know in the world. And that is a bigger commitment than we have in any business except insurance and the railroad.”

Direct download: cultcast_500_7-8-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:45pm PDT

Thu, 1 July 2021

Yes, Mini-LED MacBook Pros ARE Incoming! (CultCast #499)

This week: a new report provides even more proof that new 14” and 16” mini-LED MacBook Pros are right around the corner—we discuss! Plus: Apple’s planning new iPads with HUGE screens, iPhone 13 is getting a big camera upgrade, and Apple’s whacky new scheme to keep employees from leaking! This one is hilarious.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

MacBook Pro with mini-LED display could land this year in 2 sizes

Apple is teaming up with two new suppliers to bring mini-LED displays to MacBook Pro later this year, according to a new report. The next-generation machines are expected to come in 14- and 16-inch sizes.

Going beyond 13 inches, Apple reportedly ‘exploring larger iPads’

Someday, Apple could make tablets as large as the biggest MacBooks. The company is reportedly investigating making super-size iPad models with displays larger than the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, according to a reliable source for insider info.

iPhone 13 Pro may pack improved Ultra Wide camera with autofocus

Apple’s next-generation iPhone lineup will pack an improved Ultra Wide camera with autofocus, according to a reliable analyst. The iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max models are expected to get the upgrade first.

Apple allegedly requires employees to wear body cameras to stop leaks

Apple is reportedly forcing some of its employees to wear “police-grade” body cameras in an effort to stop them from leaking proprietary information.

How to download Apple Watch’s new international Stripes faces

Apple introduced new International Collection bands for Apple Watch on Tuesday, priced at $49 each. There are 22 available and each comes with an accompanying Stripes face you can download from Apple’s website.

Direct download: cultcast_499.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:46pm PDT

Thu, 24 June 2021

Here it is—iPhone 13! (CultCast #498)

This week—new leaks give us our best look yet at iPhone 13! We got details and pics to share. Plus: Apple has a stunningly new retail location, and we review their most beautiful retail stores, and we review the dizzying number of new original shows and movies coming to Apple TV+—it might finally be worth the price!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

New iPhone 13 dummies and renders show incremental changes

Leaker Sonny Dickson showed off iPhone 13 dummies Wednesday of four possible models that could be released this fall, in addition to case renders and video of a case, included below. They all suggest a handful of tweaks to iPhone 12 that may be forthcoming in the new models.

iPhone 13 will come with new, improved batteries and faster 5G for many users

The next-gen iPhone will boast “more flexible SiP battery modules and LCP antenna modules,” backing up previous rumors that it will come with a new, improved battery and bring new ultra-speedy mmWave 5G to new countries.

1 in 5 customers say they’d skip iPhone 13 due to superstition

A massive 74% of people surveyed think Apple’s next iPhone should be called something other than “iPhone 13.” And triskaidekaphobia — aka fear of the number 13 — could stop one in five Apple users from buying the next-gen smartphone if it bears that name.

Apple’s new Tower Theatre store in LA looks preposterously beautiful

Apple previewed its newest retail location at the historic Tower Theatre in downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday. The company announced the store’s Thursday opening in conjunction with the launch of the Today at Apple Creative Studios global mentorship initiative for young creatives.

Here’s when Foundation and other big shows hit Apple TV+

The free Apple TV+ trial offered when the service debuted runs out at the end of June, and the iPhone-maker is trying to build excitement for upcoming series by announcing their debut dates.

Apple TV+ prepares a visit to Nathan Pyle’s whimsical Strange Planet

Dan Harmon will reportedly turn Nathan Pyle’s humorous Strange Planet webcomic into an Apple TV+ animated series. This will combine a comic that’s already become a series of best-selling graphic novels with the creator/writer of Rick and Morty.

Direct download: cultcast_498.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:08pm PDT

Thu, 17 June 2021

Leaked! Here's Apple Watch Series 7.... (CultCast #497)

This week: leaked! A new report outlines everything we can expect from Apple Watch Series 7, and it’s kind of a surprising.... Plus: Apple’s Beats Studio Buds are like cheaper AirPods Pro, M1 iMacs are shipping with crooked screens, and some big Apple TV+ changes you need to know about.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Win not one but two Quattro Pro Apple Watch bumper cases [Cult of Mac Giveaway]

You might make your Apple Watch look like a retro Casio with our giveaway this week. Four lucky winners will receive not one but two Quattro Pro Apple Watch bumper cases from Elkson. That’s one to keep and one to give to a friend.

Apple Watch Series 7 will feature updated display, Explorer Edition will ship in 2022

The Apple Watch Series 7 will boast a faster processor, better wireless connectivity, and a new, improved screen, says a new report from Bloomberg. The screen will have thinner bezels and a “new lamination technique that brings the display closer to the front cover.” This would be the first Apple Watch form factor redesign since 2018.

iOS 15: How to Get Notified If You Leave an AirTag or Apple Device Behind

In iOS 15, Apple has added separation alerts to the Find My app, which let you know when you leave an AirTag or other Apple device behind. Separation alerts also support Find My-enabled third-party accessories.

9 great but easily overlooked features in iOS 15, iPadOS 15 and macOS Monterey

Apple made an enormous number of changes in its 2021 operating system updates. Many of these drew plenty of attention — like the FaceTime upgrade — but some useful improvements might have been overlooked in all the hoopla. Here are nine new features in iOS 15, iPadOS 15 and macOS Monterey you might have overlooked.

Some M1 iMac Models Shipping With Crooked Mountings

Some M1 iMacs appear to have a manufacturing defect that causes the display to be mounted on the stand in a way that's not perfectly aligned, leading to a crooked display.

EU regulation would ‘destroy the security of the iPhone,’ Tim Cook warns

Apple’s CEO told the audience at France’s VivaTech conference that a critical part of the European Union’s proposed Digital Markets Act isn’t in the best interests of iPhone users. The proposal would require Apple to allow users to sideload applications, something CEO Tim Cook and the company are adamantly opposed to.

Cupertino quietly cuts full-year Apple TV+ trial to just 3 months

Apple quietly reduced the one-year Apple TV+ free trial for customers who buy new Apple devices to three months. The company made the change in a note on its Apple TV+ website. While customers who buy and activate an eligible device (that’s an iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac) before July 1 will get the one-year trial, those who do so from July 1 onward will qualify only for three months.

How to cancel the Apple TV+ free trial before you have to pay up

When Apple TV+ made its big debut in 2019, Apple offered a one-year trial to those who bought a new iPhone, iPad or Mac. It then extended the free trial twice, first to January 2021 and then to the end of June.

Direct download: cultcast_497.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:41pm PDT

Thu, 10 June 2021

WWDC '21 re cap and reactions! + MacBook Pros, what happened!? (CultCast #496)

This week: we recap and react to all the best WWDC '21 keynote announcements! Plus: what the heck happened to the rumored MacBook Pros?? We discuss!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

9 things that blew us away at WWDC 2021

iCloud+ makes your online activities more secure on Apple devices

iCloud+ is a new service that promises to make your online activities more private and more secure. It’s included at no extra cost with a premium iCloud subscription, and it works across all your Apple devices. Here’s what Private Relay, Hide My Email, and HomeKit Secure Video in iCloud+ can do for you.

tvOS 15 lets you sign into apps using Face ID or Touch ID on iPhone

tvOS 15 will offer a “Sign in with Apple Device option.” Selecting it will deliver a notification to your iPhone and iPad (if they’ve been updated), where you’ll be able to sign in quickly using Face ID or Touch ID.tfv

iOS 15 brings back word magnifier for easier text selection

The iPhone text magnifier makes a comeback in iOS 15. It disappeared two years ago, but returns in the next version of iOS and iPadOS. The magnifier makes it easier to place the cursor exactly where the user wants, without it being hidden behind their fingertip.

Live Text in iOS 15 is completely amazing

Like so many people, I’ve gotten in the habit of taking a picture of anything I want to remember later. Live Text makes this even more useful. Rather than saving a whole image, I can turn the text in it into a note or a reminder.

You may be waiting a few more months for Apple’s new MacBook Pro

Apple’s forthcoming MacBook Pros were erroneously expected by some to show up at this year’s WWDC. But according to a report from Digitimes, the next-gen Apple notebooks will not launch until the third quarter of 2021. This could be due to a lower-than-expected production yield for the mini LED screens for the computer.

Live Text and other macOS Monterey features not coming to Intel Macs

Many of macOS Monterey’s most exciting new features will not be available on Mac models powered by Intel processors. Live Text, Portrait mode for FaceTime video calls and more all require Apple’s own M1 chip.

Direct download: cultcast_496-edited.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:17pm PDT

Thu, 3 June 2021

New Macs coming to WWDC + iOS 15 features! (CultCast #495)

This week: it’s all but confirmed… ANOTHER source is saying we’re getting new Macs at WWDC’s keynote on Monday. They're incoming!

Plus we’ll review all iOS 15’s rumored features, and there’s something going on with HomePod that Apple’s not telling us… there’s hope for us HomePod fans!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Expect to see updated MacBook Pros at WWDC

Wedbush analyst Dan Ives expects new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros to be among Apple’s announcements for the usually software-focused WWDC. The company’s 2021 Worldwide Developers Conference kicks off with a keynote address next Monday.

Why interactive widgets might be the best improvement in iOS 15

Widgets actually debuted in iPadOS 13, then made the jump to iOS in 2020. But Apple has yet to make them interactive. The current version gives fast access to useful information. A widget is convenient for seeing what’s coming up on your calendar, or checking the weather. But they can’t do anything.

Apple has a pair of intriguing HomePod devices in the works

A proposed HomePod speaker with a built-in screen, and another device combining HomePod, FaceTime camera, and Apple TV, remain in “early development” at Apple, a Bloomberg report Friday states.

Mysterious ‘homeOS’ platform leaks in Apple job listing [Updated]

There’s macOS, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS and tvOS. How about homeOS, signaling a ramping up of Apple’s smart home ambitions? That is one take-home from a new Apple Music job posting spotted online. It references a hitherto-unannounced mobile operating system called “homeOS.” While Apple rolled out its HomeKit smart home platform in 2014, it has — to date — been a part of iOS/iPadOS, rather than its own fully fledged operating system. That could change soon.

Direct download: cultcast_495.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:51pm PDT

Thu, 27 May 2021

“M1X” MacBook Pros - here they come! (CultCast #494)

This week: Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference is set for June 7, and the “M1X” MacBook Pro will almost certainly be making its debut. We’ll tell you all we know.

Plus: Prosser says a Pro version of the Mac Mini with M1X is incoming, Apple may be making moves into crypto, and a BIG update on Apple Music lossless and your HomePod.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple details plans for WWDC 2021

Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference is scheduled for June 7, and on Monday the iPhone-maker revealed that the all-important keynote address for WWDC 2021 will be held at 10 a.m. PDT on that day. This is almost certainly when they wraps will come off the next major upgrades for iOS, macOS and the company’s other operating systems.

WWDC Invite all but confirms new MacBook Pros!

The evidence:
https://twitter.com/SamiFathi_/status/1396861652012785669

Prosser now confirming new MacBook Pros coming to WWDC:
https://twitter.com/jon_prosser/status/1396915038154334214

Next Mac mini refresh could bring slimmer design, faster ‘M1X’ chip

Apple’s next Mac mini refresh could prove even more exciting than the last, thanks to a slimmer chassis design and a faster “M1X” chipset, according to a reliable leaker.

Apple could be cashing into cryptocurrency

It’s no rumor that Apple is looking for an expert in alternative payment providers. The job description is for someone with at least five years experience with “digital wallets, BNPL, Fast Payments, cryptocurrency and etc.”

Apple Music lossless WILL be coming to your HomePods, but AirPods Max still uncertain

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212183

HomePod Mini specs

AirPods Max specs

Direct download: cultcast_494.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:24pm PDT

Thu, 20 May 2021

“M2” MacBook Pros are incoming, and we got details! (Cultcast #493)

This week: the new M2 MacBook Pros are right around the corner, along with a new and larger “Pro” iMac. We’ll share the details! Plus: everything you need to know about Apple’s new Lossless audio format coming soon to Apple Music. This is going to be a huge leap in sound quality, and it’s totally free! And Lewis fills us in on Apple’s wild new accessibility features coming to Apple Watch.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Redesigned MacBook Pro could arrive this summer, larger iMac in the works

A redesigned MacBook Pro could hit Apple Store shelves as early as this summer, Bloomberg reported Tuesday.

Apple Watch Series 7 might feature flat-edged design, green color option [Updated]

The next-gen Apple Watch could get a huge makeover, with a new, flat-edged design and a green option reminiscent of the AirPods Max.

Apple Music will add lossless audio, Spatial Audio for no extra cost

Apple Music is going lossless — at no extra cost to subscribers. Apple revealed the free upgrade Monday, a day ahead of its rumored launch. The company said Apple Music will bring lossless audio to more than 75 million tracks starting in June so listeners can hear songs “the way the artists created them in the studio.”

Spotify HiFi: quality, price, release date, free trial and latest news

Spotify HiFi is the popular music streaming service's long-anticipated entry into CD-quality streaming. Set to launch in 2021, it will allow Spotify Premium subscribers to 'upgrade' their membership so they can listen to higher-quality, lossless audio streams.

AirPods, HomePod lose out on Apple Music lossless audio streaming [Updated]

Apple Music fans who are super-excited about the just-announced lossless audio option should be aware that it won’t work with AirPods or HomePod. Not even the $549 AirPods Max.

What you need to enjoy amazing lossless audio on Apple Music

You’ll be able to enjoy some of that magic with Apple headphones. Spatial Audio with support for immersive Dolby Atmos will be available on all AirPods and Beats with an H1 or W1 chip. You will also be able to listen to it through the built-in speakers on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

AirPods might offer lossless Apple Music after software update

On the new episode of his Front Page Tech YouTube show, Prosser said the limitation was because of Bluetooth. And that that restriction is about to be removed.

AssistiveTouch lets users control Apple Watch by clenching a fist

Apple plans to release software updates this year that will make its devices far easier to use for people with mobility, vision, hearing and cognitive disabilities.

Direct download: cultcast_493.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:26pm PDT

Thu, 13 May 2021

Apple’s making a GAMING console + M1 iMac, a monster! (CultCast #492)

This week: a dubious rumor says Apple is making a portable gaming console, but... the puzzle pieces seem to add up. Apple's up to something. We discuss. Plus: the new M1 iMac is insanely powerful, and Prosser leaks more MacBooks!

Get 3 episodes of CultCast Off Topic each and every week for just $6! Off Topic is a new weekly variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah and friends, decidated to tech, gaming, culture, and more. Join Cult Support, good friend!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Enter to win a high-end Qrono Apple Watch band from Juuk [Cult of Mac giveaway]

This week, Cult of Mac is giving away two fantastic metal Apple Watch bands from Juuk, a high-end watch strap company. We’re giving away two aluminum Qruno straps in cosmic grey.

New MacBook Air renders look thin, flat and colorful

Apple plans to release a surprisingly thin MacBook Air in the same colors as the current iMacs, according to leaker Jon Prosser.

High school student makes impressive 3D renders of big-time Mac leaks [Setups]

It’s not every day you come across a high school student running a successful tech-based business – never mind one whose 3D renderings are routinely seen by thousands of people. But that’s the case with 17-year-old New Yorker Ian Zelbo and his RendersbyIan.

M1 iMac can’t match fastest Intel iMacs in early benchmarks

People were hoping the M1 would supercharge the iMac, but the first benchmark scores for the upcoming 24-inch machine are out, and the all-in-one desktop is the same speed as the other M1 Macs released in 2020, but not faster. The previous-generation high-end 21.5-inch iMac earned a single-core Geekbench score of 1109, and a multi-core score of 6014.

2021 iPad Pro beats every Intel MacBook in early benchmark tests

The first iPad Pro with an M-series processor is apparently going to be as fast as many had hoped. Benchmark tests for the upcoming tablet show that it’s almost as speedy as the Macs released in late 2020. And faster than any Intel-based MacBook ever.

Sketchy Rumor Claims Apple Developing Nintendo Switch-Style Gaming Console

Apple is working on a Nintendo Switch-style handheld games console, according to a sketchy new rumor coming from Asia. According to a post on a Korean forum, shared by Twitter user @FrontTron, Apple is developing a portable hybrid games console, comparable to the Nintendo Switch. While the sourcing of the rumor is suspect, it has gained some visibility in larger news outlets over the past day or two, so we figured it was at least worth acknowledging.

Apple TV Is Missing the Moment

“For next year, Apple is planning an upgraded box with a stronger gaming focus, an updated remote and a new processor.”

Apple said to be spending more than $500M on Arcade gaming subscription effort

Apple’s new gaming subscription service Apple Arcade may have been a bit of a footnote at its Services event earlier this month compared to the stage time given to more prime time-ready efforts like Apple TV+ and Apple News+, but the company is throwing some major funding behind its effort to get people paying a monthly fee for exclusive titles.

Direct download: cultcast_492.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:37pm PDT

Thu, 6 May 2021

Here comes the folding iPhone! (CultCast #491)

This week: Apple’s working on a folding iPhone, and it’ll be here sooner than you think! We’ll fill you in. Plus: A new sensor could turn 2022 Apple Watch into a doctor on your wrist, the honest truth about AirTags, and an EPIC update on Apple Vs. Fortnite.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

8-inch folding iPhone might launch in 2023

A folding iPhone is two years away, according to a trusted industry analyst. When open, the device will have an 8-inch screen, significantly bigger than the current largest iOS model, which has a 6.7-inch display.

New sensor could turn 2022 Apple Watch into a doctor on your wrist

A deal between Apple and Rockley Photonics could add new medical sensors to the Apple Watch in 2022. That might include non-invasive monitoring of blood sugar levels, body temperature and blood pressure. It might even add the ability to measure blood-alcohol levels.

Creeps could use AirTags to stalk people with ‘frightening’ ease

While Apple says that it’s been careful to incorporate anti-stalking measures to stop the AirTags being used in this way, a Washington Post report argues that Apple’s countermeasures are not effective.

AirTag Owners Bemoan Inability to Let Others Track Their Items Via Family Sharing

On the face of it, sharing the location of an AirTag via Apple's Family Sharing feature should be a no-brainer, since individual members in a Family Sharing group can use the Find My app to see the location of other family members' Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, AirPods, and Apple Watches.

rint a variety of useful AirTag holders with these free 3D models

It’s not necessary to buy an accessory to attach an Apple AirTag to your keys, bike or dog’s collar if you own a 3D printer.

Read Epic Games’ reasonable idea for opening up the App Store

Epic Games suggested a change to the iPhone App Store that, if Apple had followed it, might have prevented the lawsuit that put the two tech giants in court this week.

Direct download: cultcast_491.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:38pm PDT

Fri, 30 April 2021

Here come the M2 MacBook Pros! (CultCast #490)

This week: redesigned M2 MacBook Pros are incoming! And they’re gonna be awesome… we’ll tell you everything we know.

Plus: we’ll bring you the highlights from Apple’s blockbuster quarter, and discuss the two insanely great features introduced in iOS 14.5.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple tipster claims M1 iMac, new iPad Pro, updated Apple TV 4K will go on sale May 21 [Updated]

According to (generally) reliable Apple tipster Jon Prosser, Apple will release its new 2021 iMac, iPad Pro with M1 chip, and faster Apple TV 4K with redesigned Siri Remote on May 21.

5 takeaways from Apple’s latest Mac-tastic quarter

Apple pulled in more revenue from selling Macs last quarter than it ever has before. Not just the most revenue it’s ever made in a January-through-March quarter. The most revenue ever. There’s been no back-to-school rush or holiday shopping season that resulted in $9.1 billion in Mac sales. And that’s an amazing increase of 70% compared to the same quarter last year.

iOS 14.5 brings App Tracking Transparency, mask-friendly Face ID

Apple on Monday gave all iPhone users access to iOS 14.5. And iPad users can install iPadOS 14.5 Today’s updates bring a ton of new features, including unlocking an iPhone with an Apple Watch while wearing a mask.

Direct download: cultcast_490.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:13am PDT

Thu, 22 April 2021

Reactions! AirTags! New iMacs! Apple TV! iPad Pro! (CultCast #489)

This week: our reactions and first impressions to all the hardware announced at Apple's Spring Loaded keynote event!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple AirTag tracking tags will help you find all the things

AirTags appear in a new Items tag in the Find My app. This allows users to order a tracking tag to play a sound, making the device easier to find. But that’s just the start. The software uses an onscreen pointer to guide the user to the exact location of a misplaced item. The accuracy of UWB should really come in handy here.

M1 iMac is faster, thinner and more incredible than ever

The world’s most popular all-in-one now runs on Apple Silicon. The all-new and beautifully colorful iMac, unveiled today at Apple’s Spring Loaded event, packs a blazing-fast M1 chip into an aluminum form factor that’s just 11.5mm thick.

2021 iPad Pro boasts M1 processor, beautiful mini-LED display

The 2021 iPad Pro is built around an Apple M1 processor that brings a tremendous speed boost. Apple is saying 50% faster CPU and 40% faster GPU.

Apple TV 4K gets speedy A12 chip and sweet new Siri Remote

Apple took the wraps off the new sixth-generation Apple TV 4K on Tuesday. The upgraded set-top box boasts Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, which should bring a welcome performance boost. But perhaps more importantly, Apple redesigned the controversial Siri Remote.

Direct download: culcast_489_4-22-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:32pm PDT

Thu, 15 April 2021

Let's talk Apple April event hardware predictions! (CultCast #488)

This week: This week: what hardware will be announced at next week’s Apple event? We got it all figured out!. Plus: Apple’s got a zany new HomePod under development, and Apple TV+ is about to get some big upgrades.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple’s ‘Spring Loaded’ event happens April 20: Here’s what to expect

The next Apple product-release event will happen April 20. Invites went out Tuesday morning for the virtual “Spring Loaded” event, just hours after Siri leaked the date.

Mini-LED iPad Pro is on the way this month, but good luck getting it right away

The new iPad Pro likely will be Apple’s first hardware release of 2021. Despite the comparatively paltry upgrades this year. The next-gen iPad Pro will be Apple’s first to boast Mini-LED display technology, offering superior screens visuals to the current LCD displays. However, this new screen tech will only be available on the larger 12.9-inch iPad Pro, not the 11-inch model.

Apple Plans First iMac Desktop Redesign in Nearly a Decade

Apple Inc. is planning the first redesign of its iMac all-in-one desktop computer since 2012, part of a shift away from Intel Corp. processors to its own silicon, according to people familiar with the plans.

Apple could combine HomePod speaker, Apple TV and smart camera for ultimate smart home device

Apple is working on a new smart home product that would combine Apple TV, a HomePod speaker and a camera for FaceTime or Zoom-style video conferencing, Bloomberg reported Monday.

Apple TV+ will get at least 10-12 original movies per year

Apple TV+ is looking to ramp up its investment in original movies, and has hired a former WarnerMedia executive to help it, claims The Information.

The Matrix 4: Cast, release date, plot and everything you need to know

Direct download: cultcast_488.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:14pm PDT

Thu, 8 April 2021

Find My and Apple Arcade get BIG updates plus Will.i.am… HE’S BAAAACK…. (CC #487)

This week: Apple preps “Find My” to locate ALL your gadgets; a big update to Apple Arcade may finally make it worth the price; Will.i.am is back a ridiculous new tech product you might actually want; and we try to figure out Falcon and Winter Soldier is actually good in an all-new Under Review!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple opens Find My network to third-party gadgets

The Find My application built into iOS and macOS finally opened up to device trackers made by other companies, not just Apple. Wednesday’s move allows iPhones, Macs and iPads to locate lost items produced by third-party accessory makers without needing to install additional software.

New Star Trek and NBA games lead major Apple Arcade expansion

Apple made a huge push for its gaming service on Friday, launching 11 original games. These cover a range of genres, from NBA 2K21 Arcade Edition to Star Trek: Legends. And Fantasian from the creator of the Final Fantasy series also launched in Apple Arcade. Plus many, many more.

Fantasian from the creator of Final Fantasy launches on Apple Arcade

Apple Arcade subscribers are in for a treat. Hironobu Sakaguchi, who also made the classic Final Fantasy series, also created Fantasian for Apple’s gaming service. It mixes computer-generated characters with handmade sets for a truly unique look.

Will.i.am's i is a $299 HEPA face mask with ANC earphones built in

With face coverings becoming a necessity during the pandemic, we've seen countless variations on masks from the worlds of fashion, merchandise and tech. Enter Willi.i.am, a pop star who has tried with varying levels of success to straddle all of those industries. The Black Eyed Peas frontman has teamed up with Honeywell on a $299 tech-imbued face mask that wouldn't look out of place in a cyberpunk movie or game.

Direct download: cultcast_487_4-8-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:54pm PDT

Thu, 1 April 2021

WWDC 21 - This could be BIG! (CC #486)

This week: Apple just announced WWDC 2021 kicks off June 7th, so we're talking hardware predictions!

Plus: Apple is prepping a new remote for next-gen Apple TV, a leaker reveals the price of Apple's AirTags, and we celebrate 45 years of Apple with their 45 best creations!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

All-virtual WWDC 2021 will kick off June 7

Apple will kick off this year’s Developers Conference on June 7. And, for the second year running, this will be an all-virtual event, the company said Tuesday.

Surprise! Apple might unveil mixed-reality headset in 2021

Apple is aiming to announce a mixed-reality headset at an in-person event sometime in the "next several months," according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

Apple works on a new remote for next-gen Apple TV

Apple is working on a new remote for its next-gen Apple TV. While the story doesn’t share specific details about the rejigged remote, it suggests Apple might move away from the controversial Siri Remote that debuted with the fourth-gen Apple TV.

Leaker Reveals Size of Apple's AirTags and Says They'll Cost Around $39

Apple's rumored AirTags item trackers will be slightly larger than a 50 cent coin and around three times the thickness, based on dimensions offered by leaker Max Weinbach (via YouTube channel EverythingApplePro).

45 ways Apple put a ding in the universe

Direct download: cultcast_486.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:16pm PDT

Thu, 25 March 2021

iPhone 13 - we got DETAILS! (CC #485)

This week: we now have our best look yet at iPhone 13, and Apple is packing in tons of great features—we’ll give you all the juicy details.

Plus: Apple packed two hidden features into HomePod mini, Jon Prosser says so long to his eyebrows, and we’ll tell you how to get your old AirPods back to working like new!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

iPhone 13 may boast 1TB storage, LiDAR on all model

The iPhone 13 will boast a maximum storage capacity that’s double that of the iPhone 12, according to Wedbush analysts Strecker Backe and Daniel Ives in a new note to clients, seen by Cult of Mac.

Leaked iPhone 13 screen panel photo shows shrinking notch

The notch in this autumn’s iPhone 13 will slim down noticeably, according to pictures that supposedly show the front glass panels of the upcoming handset. None of the components will be removed, just rearranged.

Apple leaker Jon Prosser shaves eyebrows after missing key prediction

Prosser was so sure we’d get a March 23rd Apple event, he promised to shave his eyebrows off if he was wrong. Unfortunately for Jon, his prediction was as wrong as his face without eyebrows.

HomePod Mini Features Dormant Temperature and Humidity Sensor That Could Be Activated in a Future Software Update

Apple's HomePod mini includes a dormant hidden sensor that can measure temperature and humidity, potentially providing the means to power upcoming features that could arrive in a future software update, according to Bloomberg.

Two College Roommates and Some Robots: How Podswap Replaces AirPod Batteries

Like most AirPod owners, Emily Alpert found that, after 18 months, her wireless buds didn’t last, not even for one full run. Unlike most AirPod owners, Alpert, along with her best friend, got a robot to fix her problem.

Direct download: CC_485.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:12pm PDT

Thu, 18 March 2021

Apple’s incoming APRIL Hardware event + RIP beloved HomePod! (CC #484)

This week: Apple’s March hardware event ain’t happening, and may have been nothin but a trap to catch Prosser and his fellow leakers. But don't worry, it looks like a April Hardware event is incoming!

Plus: RIP to the beloved HomePod, one of Apple’s best products--what happened!? We discuss! And Justin “I’m a Mac” Long is now Schilling Intel PCs. Lol! You’re not gonna believe this… And Apple brought a LIFE CHANGING feature to the iOS beta--we’ll fill you in!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple’s rumored March event may have been a ploy to catch leakers

The misinformation about Apple’s March April special event may have been an attempt by Cupertino to catch out the people leaking information about the company’s plans.

Apple’s rumored March event reportedly will take place in April

Apple’s next product launch will take place in April, not March, a soon-to-be-eyebrowless Jon Prosser claimed Wednesday.

When the music stops: Apple discontinues full-size HomePod

The $299 version of Apple’s HomePod smart speaker has been discontinued. The company is already selling out of its remaining supply.

Justin ‘I’m a Mac’ Long now advertises Intel PCs

Intel has released a bunch of new ads promoting PCs… starring Justin Long. The new ads riff on the classic “I’m a Mac, I’m a PC” ads by presenting Long in front of a white background, with tinkly music, comparing the finer points of Mac and PC. Except that, this time round, Long comes down firmly on the side of Wintel.

Why Apple Watch’s iPhone unlock will change your freakin’ face-mask life

iOS 14.5 will be the best update of the pandemic era because it works with your Apple Watch to remove the hassle of unlocking your iPhone while wearing a face mask. You don’t have to type in your passcode every single damn time. The phone just unlocks. Like it’s supposed to.

Direct download: cultcast_484.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:29pm PDT

Fri, 12 March 2021

Let’s Talk Apple March Event + Hardware Predictions! (#CC 483)

This week: AirTags, AirPods, iPads, new Macs? Prosser says Apple’s next hardware event is March 23rd—we’ll tell you what to expect! Plus: iMac Pro gets discontinued is a great sign of things to come—we discuss!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple’s next big keynote could take place on March 23: Here’s what to expect

Get your wallets ready, because Apple will supposedly launch an array of new products on March 23. On the docket for the event will supposedly be an updated iPad Pro, AirPods and Apple TV, as well as the debut of AirTags.

Check out Apple’s sleek MagSafe power bank that might never launch

Two different leakers claim to give the world very early looks at Apple’s MagSafe power bank for on-the-go charging. This will allegedly attach to an iPhone with magnets so it can wireless juice up the handset. But there are questions whether Apple can fix problems with development and actually release the product.

iMac Pro discontinued: Get it before it’s gone

Apple discontinued the iMac Pro, which is still one of the fastest Macs available despite being more than three years old. Whether the move means an updated version of the all-in-one desktop is on the way is unclear.

Good riddance to iMac Pro and the era of underwhelming Macs

The iMac Pro is seemingly nearing the end of its natural lifespan — and good riddance to it. In fairness, the iMac Pro was not a bad computer. It was even, technically, a pretty great one. But it epitomized an era of Mac design that may have been the most uninspired and directionless in Apple history.

Direct download: cultcast_483.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:07am PDT

Thu, 4 March 2021

March Apple Event + more iPhone 13 leaks! (CC #482)

This week: according to two accurate leakers, an Apple event is coming our way in March, and AirTags will definitely be involved. Plus: in-screen touch ID is coming to iPhone, and the notch is going bye bye… And we’ll tell you about two insanely great features in iOS 14.5 beta!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

John Prosser says we're getting a March Apple event

Replacing iPhone notch with hole-punch camera makes no damn sense

Apple might get rid of the screen notch in the 2022 iPhone.

iPhone 13 could boast the bigger battery you desperately desire

In a note to investors sent Monday and seen by Cult of Mac. Kuo says the four iOS handsets coming in the second half of the year will have much in common with the iPhone 12, including the same screen sizes and Lightning ports. But there will be a number of improvements, nevertheless.

Find My app gets ‘Items’ tab for gadget tracking in iOS 14.5 beta 3

Apple’s newest iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 betas add a new “Items” tab to the built-in Find My app that allows users to tracks Beats headphones, luggage and other third-party gadgets.

iOS 14.5 Beta 3 Includes 'Item Safety Feature' for AirTags and Other Tracked Items to Help Prevent Stalking

iOS and iPadOS 14.5 beta 3 includes a new "Item Safety Feature" that helps prevent someone from stalking or tracking you with item trackers such as AirTags.

Arizona Advances Bill That Will Let Developers Skirt Apple's In-App Purchase Rules

The Arizona House of Representatives today passed HB2005, a state bill that would provide developers with an alternative to Google and Apple's in-app purchase options by allowing developers to use their own payment solutions within apps.

Direct download: cultcast_482_3-4-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:38pm PDT

Thu, 25 February 2021

All-new MacBook Pros, iMacs, Mac Pro minis, incoming! (CC #481)

This week: we got new details and leaks on the upcoming MacBook Pros, iMacs, and Mac Pro mini… or will it be the Mac Mini Pro??? Plus: lossless music is coming to Spotify, which means the mythical Apple Music lossless is also coming our way.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Blast from the past: 2021 iMac could bring back multiple colors

Apple leaker Jon Prosser shared renders of the upcoming new iMac design. Visually, it looks a lot like Apple’s Pro Display XDR, with a hint of iPad Pro. However, the big difference is that this year’s iMac supposedly will come in a range of colors.

Exciting new render previews Mac Pro mini

Apple leaker Jon Prosser shared the first image of what he claims is Apple’s forthcoming "Mac Pro mini" in his latest FrontPageTech video, along with news about the multiple color options for the forthcoming iMac redesign.

HDMI port and SD card reader supposedly will return to MacBook Pro this year

TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros to launch in the second half of this year.

How to tell if Silver Sparrow malware is hiding on your Mac

Some of the first malware targeting both M-series and Intel Macs has affected thousands of computers. At this point, the malicious code — called “Silver Sparrow” — is not dangerous, and Apple may have pulled its teeth. But users of the latest macOS computers still might want to know if their device has it. And the same goes for owners of Intel-based Macs. Here’s how to find out if your computer has been hit.

Spotify HiFi will bring CD-quality audio to 'select markets' this year

The company confirmed today that it plans to launch a Spotify HiFi service in 'select markets' later this year.

Direct download: cultcast_481_2-25-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:36pm PDT

Thu, 18 February 2021

iPhone 13 — we got leaks! (CC #480!)

This week: my fellow Govs, we got leaks. Let’s talk about the new features coming to iPhone 13! Plus, Stoners rejoice!—the new emojii coming to ioS 14.5 are exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

And we wrap up with our favorite new shows and vape apparati in an all-new What We’re Into!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

iPhone 13 could be Apple’s first with an always-on display

The iPhone 13 series will borrow the always-on screen from the Apple Watch, according to an unconfirmed report. And the upcoming iPhone supposedly will support some new camera tricks, including Portrait Mode for video. It’s shaping up to perhaps be more than a speed-bumped version of Apple’s 2020 models.

Apple Wins Patent for iPhone Display With Variable Refresh Rates Up to 240Hz

A new Apple patent published this week by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office describes an iPhone display that, with high refresh mode enabled, could be capable of updating content at two times, three times or even four times the native refresh rate, as reported by Patently Apple. For example, an iPhone with a 60Hz display would be able to increase its variable refresh rate to 120Hz, 180Hz or 240Hz automatically.

New iOS 14.5 emoji will set your heart on fire [Updated]

https://blog.emojipedia.org/first-look-217-new-emojis-in-ios-14-5/
The fresh emoji appearing in the second iOS 14.5 beta will set your heart afire. Or at least let you show that in texts. The new collection of pictographs also includes some new faces, and plenty of additional variations to show how we couple up in the 21st century.

Apple Music Subscribers Can Share Lyrics and Song Clips in iOS 14.5 Beta 2

Apple on Tuesday released the second betas of iOS and iPadOS 14.5 to developers, and while there were some new additions worth highlighting, most of the more notable features were thought to be already available in the first set of betas.

How Apple’s first COO turned ‘chaotic’ company into international powerhouse

Long before Tim Cook brought his operations wizardry to Apple, Del Yocam lent his logistical prowess to Cupertino. Apple’s first chief operating officer, he helped transform the company from a chaotic, scrappy startup into a streamlined manufacturing powerhouse.

Direct download: cultcast_480.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:38pm PDT

Fri, 12 February 2021

Apple’s VR headset will do FAR MORE than we’ve been told… (CC #479)

This week:

☑️ Apple's mysterious mixed reality headset is about way more than just games
☑️ Why there should never be another iPhone mini
☑️ Apple Maps will let drivers report accidents, speed traps and other hazards
☑️ How to set Spotify and others as your default music player in iOS 14.5
☑️Tim Cook Featured on Outside Magazine Cover, he's a rugged outdoorsman!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

This week: There should never be another iPhone mini

iPhone 12 mini is the worst selling of the new iOS handsets by a wide margin. Apple should be embarrassed because there was plenty of evidence before the launch that sales would be poor. Take note: Another super-small iPhone would just compound the mistake.

Top Apple engineer now heads AR/VR glasses development

Dan Riccio, one of Apple’s top designers, is reportedly now concentrating all his efforts on the company’s virtual-reality visor and augmented-reality glasses.

Apple Mixed Reality Headset Renders Depict Rumored Design

Apple Maps will let drivers report accidents, speed traps and other hazards

Apple Maps will start collecting crowd-sourced accident reports when iOS 14.5 is released. The beta version already lets users test sharing the locations of accidents, speed traps and other hazards.

How to set Spotify and others as your default music player in iOS 14.5

The recently released iOS 14.5 beta gives iPhone and iPad users the ability to change their default music player for the first time. Third-party apps like Spotify and Tidal are supported, and switching is super-simple.

Tim Cook Featured on Outside Magazine Cover, Talks Health and Wellness

Cook said that Apple Park is "like working in a national park," with a design that "brings the outside in and the inside out."

Direct download: cultcast_479.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:04am PDT

Thu, 4 February 2021

Apple Car will be FULLY autonomous! (CC #478)

This week: imagine a car that can drive you around like a taxi, and come pick you up from wherever you are… that’s Apple Car, and it’s coming sooner than you think.

Plus: Apple’s VR headset will be a MONSTER. Could boast 8K display, advanced hand-eye-tracking, and a ridiculous $3,000 price tag.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple gears up to sign $3.6 billion deal with Kia to build Apple Car

In early January, Hyundai said it engaged in conversations with Apple about a potential partnership to manufacture cars for Cupertino. However, the South Korean company later pulled back on these reports and removed Apple’s name from some of its public statements.

Apple Car might never need a driver

No one will ever drive an Apple Car, according to leaked information. Apple is reportedly planning a vehicle that’s completely autonomous. It’ll be programmed, not driven.

Apple Car could finally hit the road in 2025, but it won’t be cheap

Apple Car could ship in 2025, and will be “positioned as a very high-end” model in terms of pricing, claims TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

Apple’s $3,000 VR headset could boast 8K display, advanced hand- and eye-tracking

Apple’s mixed-reality headset could cost around $3,000, solidifying its status as a niche luxury item, The Information claims in a new report.

How to use iCloud Passwords inside Google Chrome on Windows

Apple has rolled out a somewhat surprising Google Chrome extension that allows users to access iCloud Passwords on Windows machines.

Apple Pulls Version 12 of iCloud for Windows That Supported iCloud Passwords Chrome Extension [Update: It's Back]

Direct download: cultcast_478_2-4-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:52pm PDT

Thu, 28 January 2021

Wall Street Bets, APPL Stock, & the POWER of the U1 Chip! (CC #477)

This week:

☑️ Wall Street Bets, APPL Stock, and the aftermath
☑️ Strong iPhone 12 sales fuel MASSIVE $111.4 billion quarter... What's next for Apple?
☑️ Apple Watch Series 7 could pack game-changing blood sugar sensor
☑️ Finally! iCloud password supporting coming to Windows!
☑️ iOS 14.4 brings new U1 chip features to HomePod mini, and they're super cool. We do a demo!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Strong iPhone 12 sales fuel record $111.4 billion quarter for Apple

As a company, Apple is firing on all cylinders. It pulled in record revenue from iPhone, Wearables and Services during its most-recent financial quarter. And there was healthy growth in Mac and iPad revenue too.

Apple Watch Series 7 could pack game-changing blood sugar sensor

This year’s Apple Watch upgrade will reportedly add another potentially transformative medical feature: a blood sugar sensor.

iCloud for Windows Gaining Support for iCloud Passwords Chrome Extension

Apple yesterday released a new version of iCloud for Windows 10, and based on multiple reports and the update's release notes, it appears Apple is introducing an iCloud Passwords extension designed for Chrome, which will allow iCloud Keychain passwords to be used on Windows machines.

HomePod mini music handoffs just got better

The recently released HomePod mini got a raft of new features in a software update released Tuesday. The process of handing off songs from an iPhone to the smart speaker now comes with some visual, audio and haptic effects. And media controls automatically appear on the iPhone when it nears the diminutive HomePod.

Direct download: cultcast_477.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:45pm PDT

Fri, 22 January 2021

Leaks! iPhone 13 + Magsafe comes back to the Mac! (CC #476)

This week: we got leaks! So many. We'll tell you every cool new thing coming to iPhone 13, the new iPad mini 6, Apple's VR Goggles, and the exciting new features coming to the next MacBook Pro (Magsafe! Ports! More!).

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Go to https://nordvpn.com/cultcast and use the coupon CULTCAST at checkout to get a 2-year plan with a huge discount plus 1 additional month for free.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple’s first VR headset could be an expensive disappointment

Apple’s first headset, which could launch as early as next year, will focus mostly on virtual reality experiences, Gurman warns. And despite shipping with a limited feature set, it will still be wildly expensive.

New iPhone lineup may bring smaller notch, better sensor-shift cameras

Apple will finally shrink iPhone’s notch for its next-generation devices, while all will pack even greater sensor-shift stabilization cameras, according to a new report citing sources in the company’s supply chain.

Touch ID could return in 2021 iPhone 13

A fingerprint scanner might once again be part of Apple’s iPhone line, according to a reliable source. Touch ID might appear in 2021 alongside Face ID, not in place of it.

iPad mini 6 might get the big redesign it deserves

Apple’s smallest tablet is allegedly about to get the redesign so many people have hoped for. The screen bezels in the 2021 iPad mini will shrink significantly, supposedly allowing the display to increase to over 9 inches and become nearly edge-to-edge.

MagSafe charger could make triumphant return to MacBook Pro this year

The original MagSafe charger was a fixture of MacBooks from the first MacBook Pro in 2006 through 2016. During that time, it was used on every MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air. In 2016, Apple started transitioning away from the MagSafe to USB-C.

Direct download: cultcast_476_1-21-21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:22am PDT

Fri, 15 January 2021

Reunited! With Alex E Heath & Buster Heine (CultCast Off Topic!)

CultCast Off Topic is our new weekly variety show dedicated to tech, money, business, movies, games, and anything else we're into.

Hosted by Erfon Elijah and friends!

Get get Off Topic 3X a week for just $6!

support.thecultcast.com

Direct download: For_CulCast_Reunited__With_Buster_Heine_and_Alex_E_Heath_CC_Off_Topic_6.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:05pm PDT

Thu, 14 January 2021

This one simple trick makes AirPods Max sound 10X better (CC #475)

This week: the one small change will make your AirPods Max sound 10X better! Plus: Apple TV+ packs in even more content, but is it actually worth paying for? And Apple is introducing powerful new features to your Find My app, we’ll fill you in!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Go to https://nordvpn.com/cultcast and use the coupon CULTCAST at checkout to get a 2-year plan with a huge discount plus 1 additional month for free.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Ridley Scott taps Joaquin Phoenix to play Napoleon in Apple TV + biopic

Ridley Scott will reportedly direct an epic starring Joaquin Phoenix as French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Kitbag will be produced by Apple and shown on Apple TV+.

You can see evidence of AirTags on your own iPhone

There’s no reason to be skeptical about Apple’s plans for AirTags. Any iPhone, iPad or Mac user can see evidence that Apple is about to add support for item trackers to the Find Me application.

Latest Apple Pay offer will score you 4 months of Panera Bread coffee

Fancy four months of unlimited coffee at Panera Bread? Of course you do. And, thanks to Apple Pay, that’s exactly what you can get — provided you’re willing to sign up for a MyPanera+ Coffee subscription, that is.

Plus, we've got Safari tips!

Direct download: cultcast_475.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:11pm PDT

Thu, 7 January 2021

Apple's AR glasses are incoming! (CC #474)

This week: a reliable analyst says Apple Glass is landing in 2021, and it could enable some powerful new features on your Mac and iPhone. We'll fill you in! Plus: Elon Musk is now the world’s richest man, which only affirm and Apple Car is on the way (we’ll explain), and we wrap up with a cool new line of iPhone and Mac chargers that are smaller, lighter, cheaper, and more powerful than Apple's!

Get three episodes of CultCast Off Topic each and every week for just $6!

Off Topic is a new weekly variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah and friends, decidated to tech, gaming, gadgets, and more. Join Cult Support, dear friend!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Go to https://nordvpn.com/cultcast and use the coupon CULTCAST at checkout to get a 2-year plan with a huge discount plus 1 additional month for free.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

https://amzn.to/35Ek6bZ (Amazon)

Thank you to our Cult Supporters!

Jeffrey Dickerson
Geoff Druin
RattMippetoe
Corey Blosser
Sean Logue
Mark Thiel
Connor
Zach Hicks
Ian MF Medina
Rob Butchart
Dan Ferris
DP Spender
Keith Pettit
Dan Finan
Jordon
Joe Cavicchiolo
Lane Gandy
Sam Farrar
Tesla_420
ayzee
chris schmauch
Anthony Scouras
Matt Craft
Jordan Deville
Eric Alba
Larry Wanger
Eric Granata
Timothy Savage
Bruce Patrick
John Powell
JR Shultz
John Lee Clair
Jamie Pullman
Gavin Miller
Josef
Adrian Raudaschl

Here's the 100w Gallium Nitride charger we talked about

Here's the 20w Gallium Nitride Anker charger we talked about

https://amzn.to/3s6clVI (Amazon)

Apple Car would only need 2% of mobility market to equal iPhone revenue

Apple would only need to capture 2% of the mobility market with a possible Apple Car to equal the revenue that it currently gets from the iPhone, Morgan Stanley researchers note.

Elon Musk surpasses Jeff Bezos as wealthiest person on earth

Apple Glass might finally make its anticipated debut in 2021

Apple plans to release an augmented-reality device in 2021, according to a trusted analyst. Ming Chi-Kuo.

Apple Glass AR glasses reportedly enter second phase of production

Prototype “Apple Glass” augmented reality glasses are reportedly set to enter the second phase of production, Digitimes reported Wednesday.

Awesome macOS concept imagines the AR iMac of the future

A designer’s radical new concept shows what future Macs could look like if augmented reality glasses replaced the computers’ physical screens.

Apple ties executive bonuses to progress on environmental initiatives

Apple made it clear to executives that it won’t be enough to simply talk about protecting the environment. Starting in 2021, the amount of cash bonuses will be impacted by how well each executive lives up Apple’s values.

Rejoice! Smaller MacBook chargers could be coming

MacBook users might be getting a charger from Apple that’s less of a brick. At last! The Mac-maker reportedly will start sourcing power adapters made with gallium nitride. GaN semiconductors allow these vital accessories to be significantly smaller than the old silicon ones.

Direct download: cultcast_474.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:21pm PDT

Thu, 31 December 2020

Our fave stuff from 2020, and AirPods Max SweatGate explained! (CultCast #473)

This week: all our favorite stuff of 2020! Plus: Ming-Chi provides a big update Apple Car, and we’ll tell you what you need to know about AirPods Max Sweatgate—yes, it’s a problem!

Support CultCast content and get CultCast Off Topic, our new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah and friends, for just $6 a month!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

AirPods Max condensation makes some owners sweat

Thank you to our Cult Supporters!

Jeffrey Dickerson
Geoff Druin
RattMippetoe
Corey Blosser
Sean Logue
Mark Thiel
Connor
Zach Hicks
Ian MF Medina
Rob Butchart
Dan Ferris
DP Spender
Keith Pettit
Dan Finan
Jordon
Joe Cavicchiolo
Lane Gandy
Sam Farrar
Tesla_420
ayzee
chris schmauch
Anthony Scouras ( Tonipepperoni77)
Matt Craft
Jordan Deville
Eric Alba
Larry Wanger
Eric Granata
Timothy Savage
Bruce Patrick
John Powell
JR Shultz
John Lee Clair
Jamie Pullman
Gavin Miller
Josef
Adrian Raudaschl

This week's stories

Apple’s AirPods Max headphones are drawing complaints from some users after drops of water formed inside the earpads after extended use. Condensation is not an uncommon problem with over-the-ear headphones, though the metal ear cups and tight fit of the Apple version might increase the amount.
- https://twitter.com/donaldfilimon/status/1343295141403111426?s=21
Quite a few users in the twitter thread an in my vid covering this have said they’re having the same issue
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLZ211I6WSk

Max Stand adds wireless charging to AirPods Max

German design studio Floating Pixels dreamed up an improvement to AirPods Max. They created the Max Stand -- it holds the over-the-ears headphones upright, making them easy to pick up and use. And it adds wireless charging, rather than requiring users to plug in a cable.

Pick up these gold-plated AirPods Max for a mere $108,000

Caviar came up with a pair of AirPods Max that's even more expensive than the original. They are gold-plated, and the headband is covered in crocodile leather. You can get them in black or white -- one-click ordering for your convenience!

WaterField makes the AirPods Max case Apple should have

WaterField Designs delivered what Apple didn’t - a protective case for AirPods Max. The San Francisco company's new Max Shield Case was designed with input from Apple fans.

Kuo: Apple Car Still in Early Stages, Unlikely to Launch Until 2025-2027 at Earliest

Earlier this week, Reuters reported that Apple is targeting 2024 for production of its long-rumored electric vehicle with "next level" battery technology, but Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that a launch is unlikely until 2025-2027 at the earliest.

Direct download: cultcast_473.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00pm PDT

Thu, 24 December 2020

Apple Car coming in 2021?! LET’S TALK! (CC #472)

This week: a new report says Apple Car is in production and coming... in 2021! Plus a newly revealed Elon Musk story all but confirms Apple’s own car is incoming.

And we wrap up with more details on the next Apple TV, and our picks for favorite stuff of the year!

This episode supported by

YOU! CultCast is now listener supported! If you 💖 what we do, & if want to see more content with the same CultCast gusto, please join us.

Supporters get CultCast: Off Topic!, a new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah (and friends), and a lot more!

NordVPN has Super Fast servers in 59 countries! And with their double encryption, your data and browsing will be safe and secure. Get 4 free months of NordVPN with a two year subscription at NordVPN.com/CULTCAST, and use code CultCast at checkout.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 12, Apple Watch, iPad, glasses and lenses sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Innovative batteries might power Apple Car by 2024

Thank you to our Cult Supporters!

Jeffrey Dickerson
Geoff Druin
RattMippetoe
Corey Blosser
Sean Logue
Mark Thiel
Connor
Zach Hicks
Ian MF Medina
Rob Butchart
Dan Ferris
DP Spender
Keith Pettit
Dan Finan
Jordon
Joe Cavicchiolo
Lane Gandy
Sam Farrar
Tesla_420
ayzee
chris schmauch
Anthony Scouras ( Tonipepperoni77)
Matt Craft
Jordan Deville
Eric Alba
Larry Wanger
Eric Granata
Timothy Savage
Bruce Patrick
John Powell
JR Shultz
John Lee Clair
Jamie Pullman
Gavin Miller
Josef
Adrian Raudaschl

This week's stories

Apple is reportedly prepping a vehicle that’s aimed at the consumer market, according to Reuters. Leaked information indicates Apple is going to make a car and sell it to the public, not just develop self-driving technology to license to other companies.

Apple turned down offer to buy Tesla on the cheap

Apple could have bought electric automaker Tesla at a bargain price, according to Tesla CEO Elon Musk. But Apple’s chief executive wasn’t interested.

Next-gen Apple TV with gaming focus, updated remote coming in 2021

A new report adds weight to rumors that an Apple TV set-top box supercharged for gaming is coming next year. “Apple is planning an upgraded box with a stronger gaming focus, an updated remote and a new processor,” according to Bloomberg.

Direct download: cultcast_472.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:37am PDT

Thu, 17 December 2020

AirPods Max! The Good. The Bad? The CASE... (#471)

This week: the $549 AirPods Max—we got them, here’s what we think!

Plus: Jony Ive might’ve just landed a new job, as the CEO of... Ferrari?

And we wrap up with more of our favorite stuff of 2020!

CultCast is now listener supported! If you 💖 what we do, & if want to see more content with the same CultCast gusto, please join us.

Supporters get CultCast: Off Topic!, a new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah (and friends), and a lot more!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

THIS IS MY FACE HEARING AIRPODS MAX

Thank you to our Cult Supporters!

Jeffrey Dickerson

Geoff Druin

RattMippetoe

Corey Blosser

Sean Logue

Mark Thiel

Connor

Zach Hicks

Ian MF Medina

Rob Butchart

Dan Ferris

DP Spender

Keith Pettit

Dan Finan

Jordon

Joe Cavicchiolo

Lane Gandy

Sam Farrar

Tesla_420

ayzee

chris schmauch

Anthony Scouras ( Tonipepperoni77)

Matt Craft

Jordan Deville

Eric Alba

Larry Wanger

Eric Granata

Timothy Savage

Bruce Patrick

John Powell

JR Shultz

John Lee Clair

Jamie Pullman

Gavin Miller

Josef

Adrian Raudaschl

This week's stories

I recorded AirPods Max with a $1,000 mic so YOU can hear what I'm hearing!

Apple leaps to the defense of its crazy AirPods Max case

A goal was to make a case that’s not too bulky. “We travel a lot, so we know how important it is to fit in a bag. So it’s extremely storage efficient,” said Hankey (in a machine translation).

Jony Ive is reportedly in the running to take the driver’s seat at Ferrari

Since leaving Apple in the middle of last year, Sir Jony Ive has launched a new design agency, LoveFrom, and taken on clients including Airbnb. Now he could be headed for the figurative driver’s seat at Ferrari — as the Italian luxury carmaker’s next CEO. Possibly.

Strong demand for iPhone 12, new Apple TV on the way in 2021

Our favorite stuff of 2020!

Direct download: cultcast_471.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:00pm PDT

Thu, 10 December 2020

AirPods Max! $550! LET’S TALK…. (CultCast #470)

This week: AirPods Max first impressions! LET’S TALK…

Plus, it looks like an Apple Car is back on the menu, boooooys. This is a crazy plot twist in the ongoing saga of Project Titan.

And it’s that time again for our picks of the year! This week, we reveal our favorite shows of 2020, and we got some great ones for you.

CultCast is now listener supported! If you 💖 what we do, & if want to see more content with the same CultCast gusto, please join us.

Supporters get CultCast: Off Topic!, a new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah (and friends), and a lot more!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

AirPods Max first impressions: Impressive build, ridiculous case

Thank you to our Cult Supporters!

Jeffrey Dickerson
Geoff Druin
RattMippetoe
Corey Blosser
Sean Logue
Mark Thiel
Connor
Zach Hicks
Ian MF Medina
Rob Butchart
Dan Ferris
DP Spender
Keith Pettit
Dan Finan
Jordon
Joe Cavicchiolo
Lane Gandy
Sam Farrar
Tesla_420
ayzee
chris schmauch
Anthony Scouras ( Tonipepperoni77)
Matt Craft
Jordan Deville
Eric Alba
Larry Wanger
Eric Granata
Timothy Savage
Bruce Patrick
John Powell
JR Shultz
John Lee Clair
Jamie Pullman
Gavin Miller
Josef
Adrian Raudaschl

This week's stories

The “first impressions” reviews of the AirPods Max are out, and, well, they’re pretty darn good.

Water-resistance, U1 chip, swappable bands are just a few things MIA from AirPods Max

Apple’s U1 chip, which lets devices more accurately connect to others nearby using ultra-wideband technology, didn't make it into Apple’s pricey new $549 AirPods Max headphones.

That weird AirPods Max case gives jokesters plenty of ammo

After Apple unveiled AirPods Max this morning, the internet jumped quickly into mockery mode. The pricey over-the-ears headphones come with a case that lots of jokesters think looks like a bra.

Apple Car could hit the road in 2024

Apple is moving ahead with an autonomous vehicle. It’s reportedly already talking to component makers and might unveil the Apple Car in 2024 or 2025.

Direct download: cultcast_470.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:24pm PDT

Thu, 3 December 2020

Apple Hardware Drop, incoming! (CultCast #469)

This week: get your wallets ready, Apple has a mysterious hardware release planned for December 8! Plus: the M1 Mac mini is an unstoppable monster, we’ve got more insane benchmarks to share. Seriously, do not waste your money on anything but an M1 Mac.

And Apple’s quietly bringing a much-welcomed feature to most older iPhones! You’re gonna like what you see, we guarantee it...

CultCast is now listener supported! If you 💖 what we do, & if want to see more content with the same CultCast gusto, please join us.

Supporters get CultCast: Off Topic!, a new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah (and friends), and a lot more!

This episode supported by

The NETGEAR Orbi WiFi 6 router gives you ultra-fast speeds and wider coverage throughout your home – it’s the biggest revolution in WiFi ever. Check it out today at your local Best Buy and at Netgear.com/bestwifi6.

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Apple plans mysterious hardware release on December 8

This week's stories

Apple could have a Christmas surprise up its sleeve.

M1 Mac mini runs Windows 10 far faster than Microsoft Surface Pro X

New tests show relatively speedy performance for a Mac mini with an ARM-based Apple M1 processor running the ARM version of Windows 10. Even though the OS is running as a virtual machine, benchmarks show the device can handle X86 applications far faster than the Microsoft Surface Pro X, which also uses an ARM chip.

Don’t waste your money on anything but an M1 Mac

M1 13" MacBook Pro vs 16" MacBook Pro: I'm dumbfounded.. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MUTS7xvKhQ

M1 Mac Mini vs Intel i7 Mac Mini + eGPU for Pro Apps! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59gAjXT7qyw

iOS 14.2 Quietly Added FaceTime 1080p Support to iPhone 8 and Later Models

Back in early November, Apple released iOS 14.2 and announced with it a slew of new features for iPhones, but one thing it didn't mention was the apparent addition of support for 1080p FaceTime calls on iPhone 8 and later devices.

iPhone 12 is Apple’s best-selling handset in years

In the first weeks they were available, each of the iPhone 12 models sold far better than any of their predecessors released in the past three years, according to a research firm.

Direct download: cultcast_469.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:36pm PDT

Wed, 25 November 2020

Our M1 MacBook Air review, plus stereo HomePod minis bring the BOOM! - #468

This week: Here’s our one week review of the M1 MacBook Air! TDLR; it's ridiculous.

Then: how do the new M1 Macs perform with 8GB vs 16GB of RAM? The differences are surprising!

Plus: Apple’s about to do their best Black Friday sale yet, we discuss. And we’ll wrap up with a hands-on review of Stereo HomePod minis.

CultCast is now listener supported! If you 💖 what we do, & if want to see more content with the same CultCast gusto, please join us.

Supporters get CultCast: Off Topic!, a new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah (and friends), and a lot more!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

M1 MacBook Air is an instant classic [Review]

This week's stories

I just opened more than 650 tabs in Safari on a new M1 MacBook Air. I would have opened more, but I got bored. The MacBook Air is just humming. I’ve never seen anything like it.

Video Demos Performance Differences Between 8GB and 16GB Apple M1 MacBook Pro

All of the M1 Mac models use the same M1 chip, so the upgrade options are limited to SSD storage space and RAM. We haven't seen many comparisons that demonstrate the difference between a machine with 8GB RAM and the upgraded 16GB RAM option, but Max Tech today shared a video highlighting the performance between an 8GB MacBook Pro and a 16GB MacBook Pro.

Apple offers gift cards of up to $150 in new Black Friday promotion

Apple today unveiled its four-day shopping event that kicks off on Black Friday. The company is offering gift cards of up to $150 when you buy select products, including iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad and Mac. The event runs through Monday, November 30, but it excludes some of Apple’s newest products — such as iPhone 12 and the new iPad Air.

Apple Watch, MacBook tipped for big redesigns in late 2021

Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities expects Apple’s next-generation Apple Watch to bring “innovative health management functions.” No details, but could be the long-rumored blood glucose monitor. And while the M1 Macs looks exactly the same as previous models, new form factors are coming, Kuo says. Again, no details. He also told investors iPhone 12 is off to a strong start.

6 reasons an M1 Mac might not be right for you

Direct download: cultcast_468.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:34pm PDT

Thu, 19 November 2020

The new M1 Macs are totally insane! (+ HomePod mini hands-on!) - #467

This week: Apple’s new M1 Macs are breaking all the benchmarks, and are now officially the fastest Macs ever made. The MacBook Air is outperforming the iMac! These M1 Macs are insane.

Plus: iPhone 12 Pro Max Vs. Mini — we’ve got them both! Which one is the keeper? We discuss. And stay tuned for our HomePod mini review, and our favorite tire inflator in an all-new Under Review!

CultCast is now listener supported! If you 💖 what we do, & if want to see more content with the same CultCast gusto, please join us.

Supporters get CultCast: Off Topic!, a new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah (and friends), and a lot more!

http://youtube.com/erfonelijah

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Erfon Elijah's YouTube channel

On the show this week

First M1 Macs blow reviewers’ socks off

This week's stories

Still on the fence over Apple’s new M1 Mac mini, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro despite their stellar benchmarks? Find out what tech experts think of them in new reviews and hands-on videos.

M1 MacBook Review + Mac Mini (Dave2D)

iPhone 12 mini is the ultimate one-handed phone [Review]

Buying a compact smartphone used to mean making some big sacrifices. You either had to settle for an older model, or you had to opt for an Android handset (ugh!). That’s no longer the case, thanks to iPhone 12 mini.

iPhone 12 Pro Max: Bigger, bolder and undeniably better [Review]

iPhone 12 Pro Max is Apple’s biggest smartphone to date, with a Super Retina XDR display that measures at 6.7 inches diagonally. It’s also the fastest handset on the market, thanks to an incredibly speedy A14 Bionic processor that’s coupled with 5G connectivity (where available).

Direct download: cultcast_467.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:06pm PDT

Thu, 12 November 2020

#466 - Apple’s M1 chip… it’s a MONSTER

This week: early benchmarks are in for Apple’s new M1 silicon, and they show the new chip makes the new MacBook Air FASTER than the 16-inch MacBook Pro. The M1 performance is HARD TO BELIEVE, and then there's the insane battery life...

Plus, HomePod mini reviews are in, and we go hands-on with Dolby Atmos on Apple TV with original HomePod!

CultCast is now listener supported!

Today we announced that CultCast is going listener supported. If you 💖 what we do, & want to see more content with the same CultCast gusto, please join us!

Supporters get CultCast: Off Topic!, a new variety show hosted by Erfon Elijah (and friends).

Patreon - patreon.com/thecultcast

Subscribe Star - subscribestar.com/cultcast

This episode supported by

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

On the show this week

Performance trajectory shows why jump to Apple Silicon makes perfect sense

This week's stories

Apple improved its processors’ performance by a massive 3x in the past five years, according to analysis carried out by AnandTech.

Apple Silicon M1 Chip in MacBook Air Outperforms High-End 16-Inch MacBook Pro

In comparison to Macs, the single-core M1performance is better than any other available Mac, and the multi-core performance beats out all of the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro models, including the 10th-generation high-end 2.4GHz Intel Core i9 model.

Apple Silicon M1’s biggest surprise? Insane battery life

Apple Silicon was widely expected to be fast, but perhaps the biggest surprise of the new M1 chip is the insane battery life it enables.

First HomePod mini reviews: Superior audio that’s better late than never

What HiFi?: “the HomePod Mini outperforms its size and price like no other smart speaker you can buy.”

HomePods + Apple TV + Dolby Atmos - WOW (review, sound test and reactions)

Apple has brought Dolby Atmos support to HomePods!

Direct download: cultcast_466.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:19pm PDT

Thu, 5 November 2020

#465 - INCOMING - Super-charged MacBook Pros w/Apple Silicon (+ new AirPod leaks!)

This week: New MacBook Pros are right around the corner, and their Apple silicon are looking like powerhouses! Plus: a new leak gives us our first glimpse as the next-gen AirPods, and they look even better than we hoped. And forget everything you’ve heard about AirTags--Apple has BIG plans for this tech that extends far beyond what we’ve been told.

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Is this our first glimpse of the next-gen AirPods?

This week's stories

Apple’s third-generation AirPods reportedly will look very similar to the AirPods Pro, and a new photo shared online may give us our first glimpse of the new design.

Get ready for Apple Silicon Mac at ‘One More Thing’ event

Apple sent out invites on Monday to an unprecedented third product launch event. This will almost certainly be the debut of Macs running Apple Silicon, the company’s own processors, and the long rumored AirTags.

Apple to Launch MacBooks With Own Chips Next Week

Apple and overseas suppliers are ramping up production of three Mac laptops with Apple processors: new 13-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros and a new 13-inch MacBook Air, according to people familiar with the matter.

A14X Bionic to Be ‘Nearly on Par’ With 8-Core Intel Core i9-9880H, According to Fresh Performance Analysis

Two Massive Master Patents covering Apple AirTags has been Published illustrating many styles and Applications

Direct download: cultcast_465.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:54pm PDT

Thu, 29 October 2020

#464 - Big changes are coming to AirPods! (And a $100,000 APPL stock update!)

This week: next-gen's AirPods are getting massive changes, we’ll tell you what we know! Plus: the original HomePod remains absolutely OUTSTANDING, but the Intercom feature needs work; and we’ve got another update on Erfon’s $100,000 APPL stock investment!

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

Apple Plans Smaller AirPods Pro, Revamped Entry-Level Model

This week's stories

Apple is currently working on updates for its entry-level AirPods and AirPods Pro, which could debut in 2021, Bloomberg reported Monday.

Original Home REMAINS outstanding, now getting even better

I’ve broken apart my stereo pair so one is now in my living room. Breaking apart stereo pair was not a simple process. HomePod blows away Echo in my living room. Just one fills the room beautifully.

Apple may have underestimated the popularity of iPhone 12 Pro

Apple was seemingly banking on the iPhone 12 being its most popular new handset this year. But it appears the company may have underestimated just how popular the new iPhone 12 Pro is with users.

Apple earnings: Can iPad and Mac pick up the iPhone slack again?

Weak iPhone sales likely pulled down Apple earnings in its last financial quarter. But the pandemic almost certainly pushed up demand for iPad and Mac. Still, total revenue is expected to be down slightly.

Direct download: cultcast_464.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:15pm PDT

Thu, 22 October 2020

#463 - iPhone 12/Pro first impressions!

This week: the reviews are in, let's talk about iPhone 12! Plus—the honest truth about of 5G, HomePod gets a game changing new feature, and Jony Ive gets a brand new job.

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

iPhone 12 and 12 Pro first impressions: Apple does it again

This week's stories

The first reviews of iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro landed online Tuesday, and the devices’ marquee feature — 5G wireless connectivity — largely went unnoticed.

iPhone 12 sees strong start with twice as many preorders as iPhone 11

iPhone 12 has seen twice as many preorders as last year’s iPhone 11, while iPhone 12 Pro is proving more popular than iPhone 11 Pro, according to new estimates from reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

Early iPhone 12 and 12 Pro battery tests suggest 5G comes at a cost

The new iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro bring 5G to Apple’s smartphones for the first time. But it comes at a cost to your battery.

iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 12 vs iPhone 11 Pro Camera Test

HomePod will soon have Dolby Atmos support for Apple TV 4K

An upcoming home cinema feature will soon enable Apple HomePod to blast Dolby Atmos audio from Apple TV 4K. The feature, which is on the way as part of a future firmware update, will also support 5.1 and 7.1 channel audio (via The Verge). Only the regular HomePod will get the option, however. The new HomePod mini won’t support Atmos.

Direct download: cultcast_463.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:20pm PDT

Thu, 15 October 2020

#462 - iPhone 12/Pro/Mini and HomePod Mini — our reactions!

This week: it’s our iPhone 12/Pro/Mini and HomePod Mini reactions! We review everything Apple announced at the "Hi, Speed" event, and we dig into all the new features. We’ve got a lot to say….

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

With HomePod mini, Apple goes small, cheap and smart

This week's stories

Apple took the wraps of the HomePod mini Tuesday, showcasing a pint-size smart speaker that promises high-end audio at a lower price than its big brother. But the most interesting parts might have nothing to do with music.

iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini look anything but standard

Apple showcased the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 handsets Tuesday, showing just how powerful an “entry level” smartphone can be.

iPhone 12 Pro dazzles with new design, 5G, improved cameras

Like its predecessor, iPhone 12 Pro comes in two size options. The smaller model offers a 6.1-inch display, while the larger Max model packs a 6.7-inch display — the largest ever in an iPhone. And yet, both devices are just as portable as iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max. They’re also available in new color options: silver, graphite, gold, and Pacific blue.

Direct download: cultcast_462.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:47pm PDT

Thu, 8 October 2020

#461 - Our "Hi, Speed" Apple event.... PREDICTIONS

This week: iPhone 12! HomePods Mini! AirTags! Next Gen Macs! Air Power Mat? We’re talking our “Hello, Speed” Apple event hardware predictions.

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 12, Apple Watch, iPad and other tech sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

Apple October event invite might hide AirTags in plain sight

This week's stories

The invite to an Apple October product event might have an upcoming device hidden in plain sight. Part of the graphic included with the invite apparently bears a strong resemblance to AirTags, the item-location tags that are supposedly on the docket for the October 13 event.

Apple ‘Hi, Speed’ event on Oct. 13 could bring iPhone 12, new Mac and more

Apple just invited the world to an event on October 13. No agenda was announced, but there’s little doubt the star will be the iPhone 12, the first iOS device with 5G wireless networking. Apple hinted at the coming upgrade with the title of the

HomePod mini on the way this year, but don’t expect HomePod 2

Apple will introduce a HomePod mini in 2020, but don’t get your hopes up about a sequel to the original HomePod smart speaker, claims a reliable Apple leaker.

Direct download: cultcast_461.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:40pm PDT

Thu, 1 October 2020

#460 - Apple's own leaks confirms iPhone 12 Mini!

This week: whoopsie! Apple accidentally leaks the new iPhone 12 mini—we talk prices and storage options. Plus: Apple’s beefs up AppleCare+ and slashes the cost; and we wrap up with an EPIC update to the Fortnite Vs. Apple app store antitrust case.

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

CONFIRMED! 'iPhone 12 mini' Name Reappears in Leaked Apple iPhone 12 Case Stickers

This week's stories

Earlier this week a proven leaker (L0vetodream) claimed that the iPhone 12 lineup would be named "iPhone 12 mini," "iPhone 12," "iPhone 12 Pro," and "iPhone 12 Pro Max," and today the same nomenclature has appeared again in a photo depicting alleged stickers from unreleased Silicone iPhone cases originating from Apple's international distribution center in Ireland.

iPhone 12 will come in a 64GB storage option after all Don’t bid farewell to the 64GB storage option for the iPhone just yet! According to Apple leaker Jon Prosser, the 5.4-inch

iPhone 12 mini and 6.1-inch iPhone 12 will come in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options.

AppleCare+ Updated to Cover 2 Accidental Damage Incidents Every 12 Months, Theft and Loss Deductible Lowered

Apple today updated its AppleCare+ protection plan for Apple devices to cover two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months. Prior to now, AppleCare+ covered two incidents of accidental damage every 24 months.

Epic’s decision to bypass Apple’s App Store policies were dishonest, says US judge

A US judge hearing arguments in Epic’s antitrust lawsuit against Apple has criticized the game developer’s decision to breach its contract with the iPhone maker by pushing a version of Fortnite with a custom payment system onto the App Store. The decision resulted in Apple removing Fortnite from the App Store.

Direct download: cultcast_460.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:37pm PDT

Thu, 24 September 2020

#459 - Apple Watch Series 6 - our one week review!

This week: don't miss our one week reviews of Apple Watch Series 6! We’ll tell you if it’s worth upgrading... Plus: multiple sources are now confirming a NEW Apple hardware event coming October 13th, where a new “iPhone 12 Mini” may be announced—we’ll tell you what we know. And stick around for more Apple Stock talk! Erfon’s reveals what his $100K investment is worth now after this month’s depressing APPL stock plummet!

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Apple Watch Series 6: Color us impressed [Review]

This week's stories

Almost all the reviews of the Apple Watch Series 6 say the same thing: Yeah, it’s great, but it’s an incremental upgrade, and if you already have a Series 5, skip the upgrade.

Multiple sources point to iPhone 12 event on October 13

The iPhone 12 will debut at a special event on October 13, multiple sources claimed on Wednesday. The release date will reportedly come shortly thereafter.

Apple’s smallest iPhone 12 could be called ‘iPhone 12 mini’

For the first time ever, Apple will adopt its “mini” branding for the iPhone, claims Apple leaker L0vetodream. According to the tipster, Apple will use the name “iPhone 12 mini” for the smallest of four models coming this year.

iPhone Home screen modders go crazy with iOS 14

Ever wanted to make your brand-new iPhone look like it’s running Windows 95? That’s the outrageously novel idea that sprang into the mind of Ashley, an 18-year-old from Indiana who wants to work as a graphic designer, after she upgraded to iOS 14 last week.

Apple has lost more than $500 billion in market cap so far this month

Apple has lost more than $500 billion in market cap since the start of this month, CNBC reported over the weekend.

Direct download: cultcast_459.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:27pm PDT

Thu, 17 September 2020

#458 - Series 6 Apple Watch & AirPods Studio - Let’s talk!

This week: we’re talking Apple Watch Series 6, and the freshly leaked AirPods Studio headphones! Plus: we recap all the best announcements from Apple’s Time’s Up event, discuss the power of the U1 chip, and explain Spatial Audio, the crazy good new feature added to AirPods Pro.

Join our CultCast Live stream, Friday Sept 18th @11:30am PT!

https://youtu.be/HngYh6PXdYk

This episode supported by

Our thanks to Linked In for supporting this episode. A business is only as strong as its people, and every hire matters… head to LinkedIn.com/cultcast and get a $50 credit toward your first job post.

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

Apple Watch SE packs essential features, larger screen for just $279

This week's stories

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

Unveiled alongside Apple Watch Series 6 on Tuesday, the more affordable model packs an egde-to-edge display, a super-speedy S5 processor, fall detection, and more.
Compare Apple Watches: https://www.apple.com/watch/compare/

Leaks give us first uninspiring look at AirPods Studio headphones

After months of near quiet, a images and even video leaked out supposedly showing Apple’s first over-the-ears headphones, possibly called AirPods Studio.

Apple quietly reveals the Watch Series 6 will be the first with U1 locator chip

In September 2019, Apple added a new feature to the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro without saying a single word onstage — and it did it again today with the Apple Watch Series 6.

Apple Updates AirPods 2 and AirPods Pro Firmware to Version 3A283

Apple has released new 3A283 firmware updates for the second-generation AirPods and the AirPods Pro. What in the update? No clue.

Direct download: cultcast_458.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:39pm PDT

Thu, 10 September 2020

#457 - Our "Time Flies" event predictions!

This week: it’s our “Time Flies” Apple event hardware predictions! Are we really getting just an iPad and the new Apple Watch at the September 15th event? We’re not so sure… Plus: the Jon Prosser vs. Mark Gurman epic battle of the Apple leakers takes a big turn, and Apple reveals their newest invention--the Apple Face Mask.

Join us in the CultClub! discord.gg/BrKdnSK

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

Apple preps virtual event for Sept. 15, but don’t expect iPhone 12

This week's stories

Apple’s next virtual event will take place on September 15 — but don’t expect to see the new iPhone 12 models.

Apple sets iPhone 11 videos to private on YouTube ahead of iPhone 12 launch

Apple frequently sets videos of its older products to private when a replacement product comes to the market. This is done to avoid product confusion in the event that YouTube’s algorithm unearths older videos.

Jon Prosser gets his leaks wrong, kinda….

https://twitter.com/jon_prosser/status/1303150728647671808

https://twitter.com/jon_prosser/status/1303350520548073479

https://twitter.com/jon_prosser/status/1303406324626096128

Design-obsessed Apple designs its own face masks

Apple designed its own face masks because of course it did. A company long known for setting itself apart from the competition with superior design couldn’t use over-the-counter masks.

Direct download: cultcast_457.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:13pm PDT

Thu, 3 September 2020

#456 - Apple’s got “something planned”, and it’s coming next week...

This week: popular Apple leaker Jon Prosser says new Apple hardware is coming next week! But what? We'll discuss.

Plus: what we know about the next gen iPad Air, Apple Watch Series 6, Apple TV, and the killer tracking features coming to Apple’s AirTags.

And the next iPhone 12 color, revealed!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Sources affirm plans for new iPad Air, 2 Apple Watch models this fall

Sources familiar with Apple’s plans have confirmed to Bloomberg that a new iPad Air and Apple Watch refresh are on their way this fall, along with a new Apple TV with a new remote.

Faster Apple TV could get ‘upgraded’ remote with Find My feature

Apple’s next-generation Apple TV could debut with an “upgraded” remote and a Find My remote feature, according to a new report from Bloomberg.

iPhone 12 to Come in 'Dark Blue' Color Option

Apple will offer a new "dark blue" model in its upcoming iPhone 12 lineup, according to a new report today.

Apple Delays Ad Anti-Tracking Features Planned for iOS 14 [Updated]

Apple told some developers that it will delay the enforcement of an anti-tracking feature that's being implemented in iOS 14, reports The Information.

Direct download: cultcast_456.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:27pm PDT

Thu, 27 August 2020

#455 - New iPhone 12 leaks CONFIRM new features

This week: a new leak confirms some exciting iPhone 12 specs! Plus: a new iPad and Apple Watch Series 6 are right around the corner; the Fortnite Vs. Apple case takes an interesting turn; and Erfon divulges how his $95,000 Apple stock investment is performing!

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

New leak confirms some of the most exciting iPhone 12 specs

This week's stories

New images and video of a prototype iPhone 12 Pro Max allegedly fell into the hands of frequent Apple leaker Jon Prosser.

New iPad, Apple Watch Series 6 leak via Eurasian database

A listing of multiple unknown tablets by the Eurasian Economic Commission confirms that Apple will soon introduce a range of new 2020 iPad models.

No Apple device can play the new Fortnite season

Epic Games and Apple are fighting over revenue sharing, and players are getting caught in the middle. Earlier this month, Epic Games tried to circumvent Apple’s requirement that the iPhone-maker receive 30% of in-app payments. The result was that Fortnite was booted from the App Store.

Judge protects Unreal Engine during Epic Games’ battle with Apple [Updated]

In an order issued Monday night, a U.S. district judge blocked Apple from revoking Epic Games’ developer accounts as the legal battle between the two companies moves toward trial.

Apple's Share Price Soars Past the $500 Mark

After becoming the first U.S. company to reach a market capitalization of $2 trillion last week, Apple's stock has continued to soar as investors pour money into the company. Apple's stock officially opened Monday above the $500 mark, and shot up as high as $515 before coming back down to around $503.

Historically, AAPL stock splits have seen stock rise 10% in next 12 months

Multi-asset investment platform eToro analysed 60 years of data, and found that on average companies that split their stocks see their share price surge by a third in the 12 months after the split.

Direct download: cultcast_455.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:37pm PDT

Thu, 20 August 2020

#454 - Why Epic Games is suing Apple (and why they might win)

This week: Battle of the Titans—Fortnite maker Epic Games takes Apple to court over its App Store policies, and they just might get their way. Plus: Apple and its stock hit another astonishing milestone; Prosser was right—Apple has begun rebranding Beats; and Apple TV+ finally makes the move we’ve been waiting for: bundling premium channels for one low price.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple expels Fortnite from the App Store; Epic Games sues

This week's stories

Early last Thursday, Epic Games launched the Fortnite Mega Drop. This offers up to 20% discounts on in-app purchases made on iPhone, iPad or Android, as long as these are direct payments. Making the same purchases though the App Store costs the regular price.

Epic Games tries to talk Spotify, Sonos into creating anti-App Store coalition

Epic Games, maker of Fortnite, is recruiting a team of like-minded companies to join its fight against Apple and its App Store policies, according to a report from The Information (paywall).

Apple hits astonishing $2 trillion market cap [Updated]

And early Wednesday, Apple hit a massive $2 trillion valuation, becoming the first publicly traded U.S. company in history to hit this milestone.

Beats 1 becomes Apple Music 1 as Cupertino launches two new radio station

Apple is rebranding Beats 1 as Apple Music 1, while also launching two new radio stations, the company said Tuesday. Apple Music Hits and Apple Music Country will both feature their own exclusive radio shows.

Apple TV+ subscribers get 2-for-1 Showtime and CBS All Access bundle

A subscription to Showtime costs $10.99 per month, while commercial-free CBS All Access is $9.99 per month, but Apple TV+ subscribers in the US can now also add a bundle of CBS All Access and Showtime for only $9.99 per month more.

Direct download: cultcast_454.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:44pm PDT

Thu, 13 August 2020

#453 - LEAKED—Here are the release dates for iPhone 12, iPad, and Apple Watch

This week: Thanks to a new leak, we now know the exact release dates for iPhone 12, Apple Watch, and more. We'll tell you what to expect!

Plus: Apple stock adventure, part 2! Erfon talks about his massive Apple stock purchase, including how much he spent, why he bought in now, and how much his investment is now worth. We talk real numbers!

And if you’ve been thinking about getting a new Mac with the butterfly keyboard, DON’T DO IT until you hear this episode. COVID keyboard repairs are now a total nightmare.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

We might know exactly when iPhone 12 will arrive

This week's stories

Apple will hold an iPhone 12 event the week of October 12, with the device shipping a week later, according to up-and-coming leaker Jon Prosser.

Mark Gurman doesn't like Jon Prosser's new hardware predictions (again)

Direct download: cultcast_453.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:13pm PDT

Thu, 6 August 2020

#452 - Forget the new iMac, buy Apple’s stock!

This week: the brand new iMac may look the same, but it’s so powerful video editors are gleefully buying 2 to 3 at a time—we’ll tell you everything that’s new 🔥

Then: Phil Schiller, Apple Worldwide Marketing VP, and one of Steve Job’s original generals, is stepping down. We’ll remember some of Phil’s most memorable Apple moments.

And forget buying the new iMac, get Apple’s stock instead! Erfon goes all in, and reveals the huge cash stockpile he’s about to dump into Apple stock, why he’s buying it now, and the cash value of his current investment.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

New iMac packs faster internals into all-too-familiar shell

This week's stories

The wait for Apple’s newest iMac is over. Cupertino today dropped a faster all-in-one with an even more glorious Retina 5K display.

Phil Schiller’s new role as Apple Fellow means big promotion for Joz

Schiller continues to report directly to Apple CEO Tim Cook in his new position, as an Apple Fellow, and will now lead App Store and Apple Events. Greg “Joz” Joswiak takes up Schiller’s previous role.

10 reasons why I’ll miss Phil Schiller

Tuesday marked the end of an era. Phil Schiller has stepped down from his role as VP of worldwide marketing.

How Apple made money in the middle of a crushing pandemic

People around the world turned to Apple products at the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis. And the result was an 11% increase in Apple revenue during the June quarter.

Apple shares close at new all-time high [Updated]

Apple shares hit a new all-time high Friday on the back of the company’s shockingly good Q3 earnings.

Apple stock will split 4-to-1

Apple’s board of directors has approved a four-to-one stock split.

Direct download: cultcast_452.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:05pm PDT

Thu, 30 July 2020

#451 - New iMacs, iPhone 12, new iPads, and Jon Prosser strikes back!

This week: Apple leaker Jon Prosser returns to the internet, and he’s got some tasty new Apple rumors to share... Plus: Tim Cook gets grilled by congress over Apple’s app store, and at least one house member says it’s time to break up Big Tech. And if you love movies, you’ll be happy to hear why new releases will soon be heading to your Apple TV just weeks after release.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

On the 9to5 New Intel iMac rumor

This week's stories

Jon Prosser Lives! And he's got some new Apple rumors to share...

iPhone 12 and New iPads

Tim Cook mostly avoids grilling during historic congressional antitrust hearing

Apple CEO Tim Cook mostly avoided questioning during Wednesday’s historic congressional antitrust hearing on the business practices of Big Tech.

Universal will sell digital movies just weeks after their theatrical debut

A new deal means that movie fans won’t be waiting as long to see Universal Pictures movies pop up for sale on iTunes and other digital platforms after their theatrical debut.

Direct download: cultcast_451.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:35pm PDT

Thu, 23 July 2020

#450 - Apple pushes for change—entire supply chain to go 100% carbon neutral

This week:

Apple—and its entire supply chain—will go 100% carbon neutral by 2030, pushing the entire world of tech towards BIG changes…
A powerful iOS 14 privacy feature will be great for consumers, buuuut may kill a billion dollar ad industry
Some exciting new podcast features are coming to Spotify
We talk about CultCast... Video!
And we’ll tell you about the gadgets we’re testing in an all-new Under Review!

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple (and its entire supply chain) will be 100% carbon neutral by 2030

This week's stories

Apple will become carbon neutral across its entire business and manufacturing chain by 2030, the company said Tuesday.

Apple Is Killing A Billion-Dollar Ad Industry With One Popup

A new iOS 14 privacy feature spells trouble for advertisement agencies and promises to end an era of personalized ads

Spotify debuts video podcasts for select shows

This week, the streaming service announced the format’s official debut on a handful of shows.

Under Review gadget picks
Anker PowerCore 10K Wireless
Zens Liberty 16-coil wireless charger
Mophie UV sanitizer with wireless charging

Direct download: cultcast_450.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:45pm PDT

Thu, 16 July 2020

#449 - Apple gets hacked, & the vanishing of Jon Prosser

This week: a massive global hack has Apple pushing a bitcoin scam to millions! Plus: iOS 13.6 brings some cool new features to Apple News. And we’ll tell you the newest info on Apple Glass, while pondering the fate of Jon Prosser, the prolific Apple insider who vanished right after leaking them.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Hackers hit Apple’s Twitter account in widespread bitcoin scam

This week's stories

Apple is one of many companies and people who had their Twitter accounts hijacked on Wednesday. A hacker found a way to post on what seems to be any account, indicating that it’s Twitter itself that has been hacked.

iOS 13.6 brings expanded Apple News features and other cool stuff

Apple released iOS 13.6 Wednesday, boosting its Apple News offering and bringing other new features to iPhone and iPad.

Apple’s biggest supplier is already making trial lenses for Apple Glass

Foxconn has reportedly started trial production on polarized, semi-transparent AR lenses that could be used for Apple Glass, according to The Information.

Mark Gurman is still mad about the Apple Glass Prosser story!

Direct download: cultcast_449.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:31pm PDT

Fri, 10 July 2020

#448 - We talk 14-inch MacBook Pro and a BIG Apple Maps update! (FIXED)

This week: we've got more details on the 14-inch MacBook Pro, and Apple Maps gets a new feature that blows us away! Plus: we talk our two week impressions of iOS 14, and a major Hollywood film is coming to Apple TV+.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Start testing exciting new iOS 14 features with first public beta

This week's stories

After giving developers start testing iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 at WWDC in June, Apple on Thursday let the general public access pre-release versions too.

14-Inch MacBook Pro With Mini-LED Display Expected to Enter Production in 2021

Apple suppliers will begin competing to win manufacturing orders for new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with Mini-LED displays in the first quarter of 2021, according to Taiwanese research firm TrendForce.

Tom Hanks thinks having his new movie debut on Apple TV+ is an ‘absolute heartbreak’

Tom Hanks made a few not-so-flattering comments about the “Apple overlords” in an interview about his new World War II movie Greyhound. The film, which was originally supposed to launch in theaters, was pulled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Instead, it will premiere on Apple TV+ this Friday.

Direct download: cultcast_448-fixed.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:18am PDT

Fri, 3 July 2020

#447 - Why people are ALREADY mad about iPhone 12...

This week: with iPhone 12 right around the corner, a new rumor says it will be missing one key feature, and the internet is not happy.

Plus: it’s a CultCast Exclusive! We’ll tell you how Apple’s planning to bring the Apple store right to your home. And we discuss our favorite new shows and "Mary Jane" accessories in an all-new What We’re Into.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

iPhone 12 might not come with earbuds or a charger in the box

This week's stories

The iPhone 12 is rumored to not be shipping with packaged earbuds, but according to reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo it may also be lacking another standard piece of kit in its box: A charger.

Microsoft Stores are closing for good

Microsoft is pulling the plug on its chain of retail stores, the company announced Friday. All stores are going to be shuttered for good, although four — in New York City, London, Sydney, and its Redmond campus — will be turned into experience centers that don’t sell products.

What we’re Into!

Slymer Refined Live Resin

Rowan and Martin’s laugh-in

Seinfeld on Hulu

Reunited Apart

Johnny Carson episodes

Direct download: cultcast_447.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:55am PDT

Thu, 25 June 2020

#446 - iOS 14’s best HIDDEN features!

This week: we bring you a huge list of great iOS 14 features Apple DID NOT mention on-stage at WWDC 20, and there’s a lot to love. Plus: why iOS 14's new Home screen widgets aren't as powerful as you might think, and get ready to log into websites with Face ID or Touch ID.

This episode supported by

CleanMyMac X is an all in one utility that takes care of your Mac's health: it’s a macOS cleaner, a performance monitor, a malware remover, and occasionally, a lifesaver. And until July 5th, you can go to macpaw.com/cultofmac to get CleanMyMac X with a 30% discount.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

iOS 14's new Home screen widgets aren't as powerful as you might think

This week's stories

Widgets in iOS 14 currently offer little more than a tiny snippet of useful information. They can display weather conditions, upcoming appointments, items on your to-do list, and what you’re listening to. But Apple doesn’t make them (or allow them to be) interactive like Google does.

macOS Big Sur

One of the most significant redesigns since Yosemite 6 years ago. Almost everything has changed.
macOS now looks a lot like iOS
All-new sounds. Trash sound different. Move files sounds different.
Translucent menu bar with new icons
All-new icons for drives and folders
Dock has been redesigned with a note iOS-type feel
Icons for Apple’s apps are now square, like their iOS counterparts
Message notifications now give much more information
The icons used in open folders look those those in iOS
Popup menus are translucent and have new buttons
New control toggle in the menu bar that brings up icons for Wi-Fi-, Bluetooth, brightness and sound, just like the control panel on your iPhone or iPad
Maps and messages now look and feel just like the iPhone versions.

iOS 14 hidden features

Double or triple tap back to activate shortcut
Widget stacks let you use the same space for up to 10 different widgets. You can swipe through them.
Smart stack widget uses on device AI to show the right widget based on factors like time, location, and activity.
Battery notification lets you know when you need to charge your AirPods, or when your Apple Watch has been charged
Hide home screen pages you’re not using
Picture in picture will let you watch a video while using another app, but you can also use it for FaceTime, so you can see your caller while doing something else
- And just like on the iPad, you can move the picture off screen but still hear the audio.
You probably remember you can have pinned conversations in messages. But did you know can have up to nine pinned conversations and they will sync across Messages in iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
- In group messages conversations, people can now @ your name to speak directly to you, and you can set your notifications to only ping when someone @’s you.
Memoji get new hairstyles, new face coverings, new headwear, and accurate facial movements
- More age options
- "Six new age options let you customize your look whether you’re baby-faced, in your golden years, or somewhere in between.”

FaceTime

FaceTime can make video calling more natural by helping you establish eye contact even when you’re looking at the screen instead of the camera.
FaceTime delivers improved video quality with up to 1080p resolution on supported devices

Camera

Time to first shot is now 25% quicker
You can now lock an exposure compensation value for photos and videos for an entire camera session while separately locking camera focus and exposure for a specific shot.
You can now capture QuickTake video in Photo mode on iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max.

Weather

Stay informed about severe weather events19 and learn about upcoming shifts in weather, so you know if it will be significantly warmer, colder, or wetter the next day.
In the U.S. you can see a chart that shows a minute‑by‑minute forecast of precipitation intensity over the next hour.

Health

New hearing features help you understand how loud you’re listening to media through headphones and how that could impact your hearing over time.

Maps

Maps now routes cyclists along bike lanes, bike paths, and bike-friendly roads. Preview the elevation for your ride, check how busy a street is, and set routes to avoid steep inclines or stairs.
Maps lets you know when you’re approaching speed cameras and red-light cameras along your route.
In the translate app, you can view your recent history and save phrases that you just translated as favorites.

Siri

20x more facts
You can now ask Siri for cycling directions.
While navigating with Apple Maps, you can ask Siri to share your ETA with a contact.

Car Keys

Even when your iPhone battery runs low, you’ll be able to access and start your vehicle for up to five hours.

Photos

You can sort any of your albums, including Shared Albums, by oldest or newest first.

Notes

Draw lines, arcs, and shapes, including hearts, stars, and arrows. Pause slightly at the end, and your imperfect shape snaps into a perfect one.
Collapse or expand your pinned notes list.

AirPods

Adjust your AirPods audio to account for hearing differences. Headphone Accommodations amplifies soft sounds and can tune for your individual hearing, to help music, phone calls, and more sound crisp and clear.
Connect two sets of AirPods to your Apple TV 4K so you can enjoy movies and shows with someone else without disturbing others.11

Privacy

Easily switch to Sign in with Apple when logging in to participating apps. You’ll keep the account you already use, but have one less password to keep track of.
Share only your approximate location rather than your exact location with apps— perfect for apps like local news or weather.
iOS will display an indicator whenever an app is using the mic or camera, both in the app and in Control Center.

Get ready to log into websites with Face ID or Touch ID | Cult of Mac

Safari users soon will be able to securely log into websites using Face ID and Touch ID. The new feature, which Apple is rolling out in iOS 14, iPadOS 14 and macOS Big Sur, should take away one of the most irritating things about using the web — remembering, and then typing in, user names and complicated passwords.

Direct download: cultcast_446.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:44pm PDT

Mon, 22 June 2020

We react to all our favorite WWDC 2020 announcements!

This episode: We react to all our favorite WWDC 2020 announcements! And there's a whole lot to discuss.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

Direct download: WWDC_2020_reactions.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:41pm PDT

Thu, 18 June 2020

#445 - New Hardware! New Software! Let's Talk WWDC 2020

This week: we talk our WWDC 2020 hardware and software predictions, and there’s A LOT to say. Plus: a new leak details a next generation iPhone with dual displays; the new 5600M MacBook Pro GPU is a absolute MONSTER; and Apple’s back-to-school promo is back for the summer, but with an interesting twist...

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Set your reminder for Monday’s keynote via WWDC’s YouTube livestream link

This week's stories

Apple has posted the YouTube live stream link that will allow viewers to tune into its WWDC 2020 keynote next week.
The June 22 event will kick off at 10am PT/1pm ET, streaming directly from Apple Park. This is the second time Apple has streamed a Special Event on YouTube, following last year’s iPhone unveiling.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEZhD3J89ZE&feature=emb_title

Redesigned iMacs to iOS 14: Everything we expect to see at WWDC 2020

Apple execs won’t get to feed off the usual live audience’s energy during next Monday’s WWDC 2020 keynote, but doesn’t mean there’s nothing to get excited about.

Apple’s first foldable phone could feature 2 displays joined by hinges

Apple’s “foldable” iPhone will use dual displays to get around the foldable screen problem that plagues other folding phones like Samsung’s beleaguered Galaxy Fold, claims Apple leaker Jon Prosser.

16-inch MacBook Pro gets more powerful AMD 5600M graphics option

Apple has updated its 16-inch MacBook Pro buying options by offering the new Radeon Pro 5600M mobile GPU. This joins the existing Radeon Pro 5300M and 5500M GPU options for the MacBook Pro.

Apple offers college students free AirPods along with deals on Mac and iPad

Summer is just starting but Apple is already thinking back-to-school. College students and teachers can save up to $200 on a MacBook or iMac. Or up to $100 on iPads. And get a pair of AirPods gets thrown in for free.

Direct download: cultcast_445.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:48pm PDT

Thu, 18 June 2020

#445 - New Hardware! New Software! Let's Talk WWDC 2020

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Set your reminder for Monday’s keynote via WWDC’s YouTube livestream link

This week's stories

Apple has posted the YouTube live stream link that will allow viewers to tune into its WWDC 2020 keynote next week.
The June 22 event will kick off at 10am PT/1pm ET, streaming directly from Apple Park. This is the second time Apple has streamed a Special Event on YouTube, following last year’s iPhone unveiling.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEZhD3J89ZE&feature=emb_title

Redesigned iMacs to iOS 14: Everything we expect to see at WWDC 2020

Apple execs won’t get to feed off the usual live audience’s energy during next Monday’s WWDC 2020 keynote, but doesn’t mean there’s nothing to get excited about.

Apple’s first foldable phone could feature 2 displays joined by hinges

Apple’s “foldable” iPhone will use dual displays to get around the foldable screen problem that plagues other folding phones like Samsung’s beleaguered Galaxy Fold, claims Apple leaker Jon Prosser.

16-inch MacBook Pro gets more powerful AMD 5600M graphics option

Apple has updated its 16-inch MacBook Pro buying options by offering the new Radeon Pro 5600M mobile GPU. This joins the existing Radeon Pro 5300M and 5500M GPU options for the MacBook Pro.

Apple offers college students free AirPods along with deals on Mac and iPad

Summer is just starting but Apple is already thinking back-to-school. College students and teachers can save up to $200 on a MacBook or iMac. Or up to $100 on iPads. And get a pair of AirPods gets thrown in for free.

Direct download: cultcast_445.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:45pm PDT

Thu, 11 June 2020

#444 - FINALLY. New iMac and ARM Mac, incoming!

This week: an all-new iMac, and the mythical ARM Mac, will finally be unveiled at WWDC. We’ll tell you what we know! Plus, we wrap up with our favorite new 360 camera, feather-light carbon bike wheels, and a must-have ethernet testing tool in an all-new Under Review.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple details exactly how WWDC 2020 will go down leander

This week's stories

Apple laid out its plans for “the biggest WWDC to date” in a press release Wednesday, detailing exactly how the first online-only developers conference will go down.

Apple could confirm Mac’s transition to ARM chips at WWDC 2020

Apple reportedly will confirm the Mac’s transition to ARM chips during its Worldwide Developers Conference keynote on June 22.

Redesigned iMac inspired by iPad Pro could debut at WWDC 2020

Apple could reveal a redesigned iMac inspired by iPad Pro at WWDC 2020, according to one tipster. The new all-in-one is expected to feature significantly slimmer bezels like Pro Display XDR, plus AMD Navi graphics.

Apple Store sells out of 27-inch iMac, suggesting new model at WWDC

Apple doesn’t have the 27-inch iMac in stock on its website. Orders placed today won’t ship until several days after the start of this month’s Worldwide Developers Conference. This adds weight to previous reports that a significantly updated 2020 version of this macOS desktop will debut at WWDC.

Under Review

Insta360 One X

Chinese carbon fiber bike wheels

Ethernet wire tracker

Direct download: cultcast_444.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:54pm PDT

Fri, 5 June 2020

#443 - BIG updates coming to iPad Pro

This week: Apple’s next iPad Pro could be one of the most exciting iPad refreshes in ages… we’ll tell you what you need to know. Plus: some welcome changes are coming to the iPad Air, and we wrap up with our favorite new movies, specialty drinks, and bubblers, in an all-new What We’re Into.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

2021 iPad Pro will have 5G, A14X processor and mini-LED display, leakers claim

This week's stories

Apple’s next iPad Pro could be one of the most exciting iPad refreshes in ages — with 5G cellular, an A14X processor and a mini-LED display, according to increasingly reliable Apple tipsters L0vetodream and @choco-bit. (Yes, despite the odd Twitter handles, both have impressive reputations when it comes to sharing details of next-gen Apple products.)

Next iPad Air could ditch Lightning for USB-C connector

The fourth-generation iPad Air will reportedly come with a USB-C connector instead of the Lightning connector of previous models, claims a Mac Otakara report, citing sources in the Chinese supply chain.

From just fine to simply divine: Ranking every iMac design

Cult of Mac gives you the authoritative (and totally subjective) ranking of the best iMac designs.

What we’re into!

Scrappy’s firewater bitters

John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum

Snowpiercer

GRAV® Small Upright Bubbler

Direct download: cultcast_443.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:07am PDT

Fri, 29 May 2020

#442 - Our interview with Jon Prosser—the aftermath!

This week: we discuss the strange controversy around our episode with Jon Prosser, and the surprising depth of Prosser’s Apple sources. Plus: Apple is prepping big changes to Messages for Mac; Future AirPods could count steps, track heart rate and monitor health conditions; and we discuss AppleTV+’s best new shows!

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Mark Gurman calls Prosser’s iGlass report “Complete Fiction"

This week's stories

Apple could save Messages on Mac with new iPad app port

Apple looks to be gearing up to port iPad’s built-in Messages app over to Mac. The move could immediately fix Messages’ biggest problems on Mac, including its glaring lack of features.

Future AirPods could count steps, track heart rate and monitor health conditions

Future AirPods could boast ambient light sensors that track users’ heart rate, head movements and steps taken, Digitimes claimed Monday.

Bob’s Burgers creator can’t make lightning strike twice in Central Park [Apple TV+ review]

Despite an impressive pedigree and a marketable cast, new Apple TV+ show Central Park seems primed to annoy as many people as it will please.

Defending Jacob finally justifies the existence of Apple TV+ [Review]

With a hot cast and a true-crime sheen, Defending Jacob is one of the most highly anticipated Apple TV+ series so far. It’s based on a best-selling novel. It’s helmed by an Oscar-nominated director. And the first three episodes arrived Friday, primed for a literally captive audience seeking its latest obsession.

Direct download: cultcast_442.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:18am PDT

Thu, 21 May 2020

#441 - Talking Apple leaks, WITH Jon Prosser!

This week: we talk Apple leaks with the man Tim Cook wants to silence... Jon Prosser! And we cover it all, including juicy NEW details on  Glass,  Car, Apple’s master plan for the next iPhone, the next  TV, Apple’s secret VR gaming headset, which big leaks are coming next, and more….

This episode supported by

Keeps’ treatments are are up to 90% effective at reducing and stopping further hair loss, so the sooner you start using Keeps, the more hair you’ll save! Visit keeps.com/cultcast to get started and get your first month's treatments free.

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

@erfon / @lkahney / @lewiswallace / @jon_prosser

This week's stories

UNBOX THERAPY - the TRUTH about Lew's new phone cases [UPDATED]

Apple's AR Glasses! HERE YOU GO! Design, Name, Price, Release date, and more! EXCLUSIVE LEAKS!

iPhone 12 - HERE YOU GO! Prices and more! Exclusive leaks!

Direct download: cultcast_441.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:19pm PDT

Thu, 14 May 2020

#440 - Details leak on Apple’s secret studio headphones 🔥

This week: details leak on AirPods Studio, Apple’s super secret pro headphones. Plus: Cupertino is opening for business as Apple gets ready to get back to work. And we wrap up with a high-tech “oregano” grinder, mini beer tap, and an electric bike cruiser styled like a vintage moped in an all-new Under Review!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple to bring essential staff back to offices in phased return

This week's stories

Apple reportedly plans to gradually return its corporate employees to work over the next few months, likely starting with those focused on major hardware projects.

Over-ear headphones dubbed ‘AirPods Studio’ might debut in June

Apple is allegedly prepping a set of over-ear wireless headphones that will be part of the AirPods line.

Over-ear AirPods headphones might pile on advanced features

Apple’s rumored over-the-ear headphones will include sensors to detect from the head or neck if they have been removed to stop or start audio as well as customized equalizer settings, according to a published report Monday.

Under Review

New Vape Grinder

Hopsy beer tap at home

RadRunner e-bike

Direct download: cultcast_440.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:36pm PDT

Thu, 7 May 2020

#439 - Our WWDC ’20 hardware predictions plus BIG iPhone 12 leaks

This week: Apple announces WWDC 2020! We talk our hardware and software predictions. Plus: a new leak gives us some exciting new info on the upcoming AppleTV hardware, and the iPhone 12 lineup, including some surprising prices and new features. We wrap up with a look at the new 13” MacBook Pro, so stay tuned sucka!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple’s virtual Worldwide Developers Conference to begin June 22

This week's stories

Apple announced Tuesday it will host its 2020 Worldwide Developers Conference virtually, beginning June 22. It will be available to view using the Apple Developer app, streamed on the Apple Developer website and free for all registered developers.

iPhone 12 prices rumored to stay close to current models, even with OLED screen upgrades

Front Page Tech analyst Jon Prosser tweeted Thursday base pricing on what Cult of Mac has reported as four new iPhone 12 models coming later this year.

New Apple TV ‘ready to ship’ with much faster A12X chip

A new Apple 4K Apple TV with the company’s A12X chip, which made its debut with the 11-inch iPad Pro in 2018, is primed to drop any time, claims Apple tipster Jon Prosser.

New 13-inch MacBook Pro brings Magic Keyboard, double storage and 10th-gen Intel chips

Apple unveiled a new 13-inch MacBook Pro on Monday, bringing a slew of upgrades to its smaller high-end laptop.

Direct download: cultcast_439.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:18pm PDT

Thu, 30 April 2020

#438 - HomePod revamp on the way?

This week: a new full-size HomePod may be on the way... We discuss! Plus: the $400 iPhone SE outperforms even the most expensive Androids, and clever software tricks make its camera almost as good as iPhone 11’s. And reveal our favorite new shows in an all-new What We’re Into, Quarantine Edition… Part 2!

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Bag a brand-new HomePod for under $205 before they’re all gone

This week's stories

MacSales is currently offering brand-new HomePod units for as little as $204.99 — a generous $94 off the usual price
Is a HomePod refresh on the way?

Lots of iPhone SE components are swappable with iPhone 8 — but not all

As the iFixit teardown confirms, the new iPhone SE is, in many senses, an updated iPhone 8.

iPhone SE uses software trick to give photos beautiful bokeh

The 2020 iPhone SE is the first Apple smartphone to offer Portrait Mode photos created entirely with software techniques rather than hardware. That’s not true of any previous iOS device, not even iPhone XR.

Apple Watch workouts

Apple Watch supports a huge selection of workout types, but most of the popular ones, like running and swimming, you probably can’t do right now thanks to the coronavirus lockdown. Fortunately, if you delve a little deeper, you’ll find plenty of Apple Watch home workouts you can choose from that require little or no special equipment.

Cult of Mac redesign

For the last 10 years or so, Cult of Mac used the standard blog format, a reverse scroll of stories with the newest posts published at the top of the site.

What We're Into picks!

Handmaids Tale

Star Trek The Next Generation

Devs

Direct download: cultcast_438.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:13pm PDT

Thu, 23 April 2020

#437 - Here come next gen AirPods 💖

This week: the next generation of AirPods are incoming! We’ll tell you what we know. Plus: Final Cut Pro and Logic are coming to iPad, along with microLED and TouchID… UNDER the screen... This could be the new TouchID tech we’ve been waiting for. And we’ll tell you how to listen to YouTube music in the background, WITHOUT paying for YouTube Red. It’s a hot tip, and it’s coming your way.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Kuo: 5G iPhone delayed until October; iPhone SE Plus pushed back until late 2021

This week's stories

The first iPhone with 5G reportedly won’t debut alongside the other new iOS handsets early this autumn. Trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Apple will begin producing a pair of 4G handsets in September, but won’t start making the 5G model until October.

Leaker: Apple Planning iPad Air With Under-Screen Touch ID, ARM MacBook, Game Controller, and More

An anonymous Twitter account with a fairly accurate track record has shared details about several Apple products that are supposedly under development.

Devs might be able to write software on iPad and iPhone with Xcode for iOS

macOS and iOS software developers will soon be able to code on an iPad or even iPhone, if an unconfirmed report is correct. iPadOS 14 and the iPhone equivalent will reportedly include support for Xcode, Apple’s software development environment.

New AirPods could be on the way as soon as next month

New AirPods, which Apple reportedly planned to unveil at its canceled-before-it-was-announced March event, are ready to go, claims regular Apple leaker Jon Prosser.

How to listen to YouTube music in the background on iPhone

Can you make YouTube play just the audio, even when you’re not showing the video? You can, and it’s really, really simple.

Direct download: cultcast_437.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:28pm PDT

Wed, 15 April 2020

#436 - Let’s talk iPhone SE 2, AIrPower mat, and HomePod Mini!

This week: iPhone SE 2 is finally here, and the amount of tech packed into this $400 phone is truly remarkable. We’ll tell you everything you need to know.

Plus, a new report outlines Apple’s plans for iPhone 12 with 5G, a new mini, possibly portable, HomePod, and the AirPower mat, resurrected!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

2020 iPhone SE combines a familiar face with new technology for $399

This week's stories

Here’s what you get for just $399: Apple's best camera and their fastest chip.

Why the 2020 iPhone SE is the perfect iPhone for a rotten time

Talk about good timing. Apple unleashed its new budget-priced iPhone SE successor Wednesday, smack in the middle of a worldwide health crisis that’s wreaking havoc on health care, economies and behavioral norms.

Surprise! Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro launches early

The Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro is now available to order on the Apple Store. The version make for the 11-inch iPad is $299. Apple asks $349 for the one designed for its 12.9-inch tablet, putting this accessory well above the cost of rival keyboard cases.

Bloomberg: As many as 4 new 5G iPhones coming in the fall

Bloomberg reported early Monday that as many as four new iPhone models will include 5G technology with at least two of them re-designed with flat stainless steel edges and a flat-screen with no notch at the top of the screen, similar in design to Apple’s latest iPads…

AirPower wireless charging pad project reignited with A11 chip to manage heat issues

The AirPower charging mat has been resurrected from the dead.

Direct download: cultcast_436_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:43pm PDT

Thu, 9 April 2020

#435 - Here come new AirPods and the 14-inch MacBook Pro 💋

This week: a tipster says the new 14-inch MacBook Pro is right around the corner! We’ll tell you what we know... Plus: Apple is readying their secret over-the-ear headphones, and a mysterious little product called the AirPods X. We discuss! And we wrap up with a USB-C charger that can charge it all, Logitech’s new Streamcam, and a double duty iPhone/Apple Watch stand in an all-new Under Review.

And stay tuned for Erfon's Corona virus update....

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's, and our Easter sale will save you up to 70% on our most popular accessories. Find your next strap at store.cultofmac.com.

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

iOS 14 could bring new wallpaper settings, Home screen widgets

This week's stories

The latest iOS 14 leaks hint that new wallpaper settings and Home screen widgets are coming to iPhone and iPad.

Apple readies new headphones, AirPods X; plans to ‘phase out Beats’

Apple is readying new over-ear headphones and “AirPods X” for 2020 as it plans to slowly “phase out Beats,” a tipster claimed Tuesday.

Apple expected to deliver new 13-inch MacBook Pro in May

Apple’s much-anticipated 13-inch MacBook Pro refresh will arrive next month, according to one popular tipster.

Apple reveals COVID-19 Face Shield details in new support doc

Tim Cook revealed last weekend that Apple is making 1 million face shields a week for medical workers and thanks to a new support document, we finally got a good look at how they work.

Under Review picks!

Logitech Streamcam

Highrise duet

PowerPort Atom PD 4 100W USB-C charger

Direct download: cultcast_435.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:43pm PDT

Thu, 2 April 2020

#434 - The return of iPhone SE!

This week: iPhone SE.... 2! Let's talk about it... Plus: Apple is “scrambling” to prevent iPhone 12 delays; and we wrap up with an all new What We’re Into, Quarantine Edition! We’ll tell you about the shows, game videos, and stuff we’re doing with our extra "free" time.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. And check out CoM's handsome new Bay Blue leather strap collar with Clessant.

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

WSJ: Apple ‘scrambling’ to prevent iPhone delays amid COVID-19 pandemic

This week's stories

Over the last several weeks, various reports have detailed how Apple is adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on the supply chain and product development. Now, a report from The Wall Street Journal adds more detail to the ongoing situation.

Foxconn confident it can deliver iPhone 12 this fall

Foxconn’s previous guidance suggested that it would be back up and running at its normal levels by late March. Last week, the manufacturer said that it had hired enough workers at its major Chinese plants to meet seasonal demand for iPhone manufacturing.

Apple supposedly pencils in April 15 launch for iPhone 9

Apple has supposedly penciled in an April 15 launch date for its low-cost iPhone 9.

What we're Into (quarantine edition!)

Webcam darts

Pennyworth

Animal crossing: New Horizons

Relic radio vintage radio podcasts

Direct download: cultcast_434.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:02pm PDT

Thu, 26 March 2020

#433 - iPad Pro got SUPERCHARGED

This week: forget the A12Z and LIDAR camera, it’s iPadOS and the new Magic Keyboard that just super charged the iPad Pro—we discuss!

Plus, we’ll tell you the best new features in iOS 13.4. And the Cookie uses Apple’s massive supply chain prowess to deliver hugely-needed supplies for medical workers—we got the story for ya right here!

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. And check out CoM's handsome new Bay Blue leather strap collar with Clessant.

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

2020 iPad Pro review roundup: Still stellar, but little reason to upgrade

This week's stories

Apple’s newest iPad Pro will begin landing on customers’ doorsteps today, Wednesday, March 25. Will it be worth their hard-earned cash? Let’s find out from reviewers who already have their hands on one. And from LK!

iPadOS and iOS 13.4 finally arrive, bringing tons of big changes [Updated]

iPad and iPhone both just received important software updates, with iPadOS 13.4 and iOS 13.4 bringing a range of new features. Apple’s tablets now enjoy robust mouse/trackpad support. iPhones and iPads both gain iCloud Drive folder sharing.

Apple donating 9 million N95 masks for coronavirus fight

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence announced Tuesday that Apple has donated nine million N95 respirator masks to help hospitals and medical workers deal with the growing coronavirus pandemic.

Apple TV+ misses out on big COVID-19 surge in streaming demand

It’s a surprise to no one that video streaming services are seeing big surges in demand while everyone is stuck at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. But it seems Apple TV+ is missing out.

Direct download: cultcast_433.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:35pm PDT

Thu, 19 March 2020

#432 - Let’s talk about Apple’s new hardware!

This week: our reactions to Apple’s new hardware! Plus, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the new Mac mini, MacBook Air, iPad Pro, and Magic Keyboard.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. And check out CoM's handsome new Bay Blue leather strap collar with Clessant.

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Surprise iPad Pro refresh brings LiDAR Scanner, Ultra Wide camera, trackpad support

This week's stories

Apple on Wednesday surprised us with a brand-new iPad Pro that packs a LiDAR Scanner, Ultra Wide camera, and studio-quality microphones. It’s powered by an improved A12Z Bionic chip that makes it faster than many laptops.

New MacBook Air announced with $999 starting price, Magic Keyboard and 6K display support

Apple updated its MacBook Air lineup Wednesday with a re-designed scissor-switch Magic Keyboard, twice the storage, a reported two times faster CPU performance, and a lower price tag starting at $999.

Apple doubles SSD storage capacity for Mac mini

Apple announced Wednesday an update of its entire Mac mini line, offering double the SSD storage capacity at the regular price.

5 reasons why iPad Pro’s new Magic Keyboard blows our minds

Apple’s exciting new Magic Keyboard is going to make working on iPad Pro better than ever when the accessory debuts in May. It’s a huge improvement over the Smart Keyboard Folio in so many ways.

Movies Anywhere tests letting users loan out iTunes movies

Movies Anywhere combines films bought through iTunes, Google Play, etc. into one service. And now it’s testing a new feature called Screen Pass that enables loaning your movies to other people.

Hardware notes

Mac Mini

Now comes with double the storage capacity on the standard configurations.
$799 now gets you 256GB instead of 128GB, and $1099 gets you 512GB instead of 256GB.
Still using the same 6th-gen 4-year-old intel processor.

MacBook Air

$100 price cut.
Standard storage has been doubled too.
You get 256GB for $999 now, and 512GB for $1299.
Features the same scissor-mech keyboard as the new 16-inch MBP.
Using Intel's newest 10th gen chip, Quad Core 1.2GHz i7, Apple claims speeds are about twice as fast as previous gen. Probably cause last gen was dual-core.
GPU performance increase of up to 80%.

iPad Pro

Now with triple lenses, kind of.
Still the same 11" and 12.9" sizes.
A12Z Bionic chip which supports a 8-core GPU.
Apple says this setup is faster than most PC laptops.
Apple says you can edit 4K videos with the iPad Pro.
Pro Motion 120hz display
Five-studio quality microphones, just like Apple packed into the 16-inch MBP
Now features a 10MP ultrawide camera
Also includes a 12PM main camera, which is probably the same one found in the iPhone 11/11 Pro
Brand new LiDAR so depth sensing. LiDAR is the same technology that self-driving cars use for depth sensing and object tracking. It's what the Mars Rover uses too.
How will iPad Pro use it? Definitely for Virtual Reality, but who knows what else.
Now supports WiFi 6.
60% faster gigabit LTE for LTE models.
Size is about the same, but slightly thicker and heavier.
Price is the same, but now the base level of storage has been upgraded from 64GB to 128GB.
Upgrading to 256GB of storage is $50, so $1200 instead of $1250.
1TB is $1300 instead of $1350.

New Magic Keyboard

Coming in May.
Features passthrough charging to the iPad via its own USB-C port on the hinge.
Features a full-size Magic Keyboard with backlighting, scissor keyboard switches, and trackpad with multi-gesture support.
iOS 13.4 will feature cursor support. Works with both the older and new ipad 11" Pro for $300.
Or $350 for the 12.9" keyboard....

Direct download: cultcast_432.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:14pm PDT

Thu, 12 March 2020

#431 - iOS 14 leaks!

This week: iOS 14 leaks! We’ll run through the best new features. Plus: Corona has hit Apple hard, and will mean delays for some of your most anticipated tech. Is Apple’s March event going to be canceled too? We’ll tell you what we know.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. And check out CoM's handsome new Bay Blue leather strap collar with Clessant.

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Game over for E3 2020: COVID-19 takes out gaming’s biggest event

This week's stories

E3 2020 is the latest major event to be scrapped amid the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. The game industry’s biggest trade show was scheduled to kick off in Los Angeles on June 9. It will no longer go ahead this year.

With iPhone SE 2 delayed indefinitely, source confirms Apple nixes rumored March event

Apple decided to postpone a March product launch event after continuing delays in the production of an expected successor to the iPhone SE, a source at Apple confirmed to Cult of Mac.

iOS 14 could bring brand-new Home screen layout with list view

iOS 14 will ship with a brand-new Home screen layout that allows users to arrange icons in a list, according to a new report. The view is expected to be customizable and will incorporate Siri Suggestions for making your most frequently used apps easier to access.

Apple tests iMessage mentions, retractions and more for iOS 14

Apple is reportedly testing a number of new iMessage features that could debut with iOS 14 later this year. They include the ability to retract messages after they’re sent, and to tag other people in group chats. We could also get the option to mark messages as unread.

Apple’s HomeKit may add Night Shift to smart lights

Apple’s HomeKit home-automation system will reportedly get a version of Night Shift to reduce the amount of blue in smart light bulbs as each day nears its end. This feature, allegedly coming with iOS 14 in the fall, is supposed to help people sleep better.

Direct download: cultcast_431.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:18pm PDT

Fri, 6 March 2020

#430 - Apple’s prepping an all-new 14” MacBook Pro AND iMac

This week: Apple is prepping a new 14.1” MacBook Pro with an all-new mini-LED display, plus a new iMac and iMac mini! We’ll tell you what you need to know. And in the wake of Corona virus, will Apple need to cancel WWDC? We discuss. And stay tuned for the best ways to disinfect your iPhone, iPad, keyboard, and more.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. And check out CoM's handsome new Bay Blue leather strap collar with Clessant.

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple preps 14.1-inch MacBook Pro with mini-LED display

This week's stories

Apple plans to make an aggressive push adding mini-LED displays to its products in 2020, according to one of the most reliable Apple analysts in the game.

What to expect from this month’s new iMac

This week, serial rumor-tweeter CoinX predicted the imminent release of a new iMac and a new Mac mini. But what does that mean exactly? A giant, 30-inch iMac that looks like the Pro Display XDR? Apple’s first ARM-based Mac? Probably not. So what changes can we expect?

Apple’s biggest manufacturer says production will return to normal by end of March

Apple manufacturer Foxconn hopes to resume regular production in China by the end of March.

COVID-19 virus means tough decisions about WWDC and rumored Apple keynote

Apple faces mounting pressure to decide whether to cancel, delay or change the format of its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, typically held in June. The same holds true, although to a lesser extent, for Apple’s rumored March product keynote.

How to disinfect your Mac, iPhone, mouse, trackpad, keyboard and cases

Direct download: cultcast_430.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:35am PDT

Thu, 27 February 2020

#429 - Here comes Apple's ARM Mac (and AirTags!)

This week: Apple’s first ARM-based Mac is headed our way—we’ll tell you what we know.

Plus, Apple’s new AirTags tracking tiles will be unlike anything we’ve seen, and way more powerful than we thought. We discuss! And stay tuned—we’ll tell you the weird rule Apple makes big movies follow if they want to put iPhones or Macs on the silver screen.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. And check out CoM's handsome new Bay Blue leather strap collar with Clessant.

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple’s first Mac with a custom chip expected in early 2021

This week's stories

This would be Apple’s first computer powered by a custom Arm chipset. It would also be the first brand-new Mac to launch without an Intel CPU since Apple made the switch from PowerPC processors back in 2006.

AirTags Said to Be 'Completely Waterproof' and Use Magnetic Charging Like Apple Watch

In a report touching on several topics today, Japanese site Mac Otakara claims that Apple's Tile-like "AirTags" item trackers will be "completely waterproof" and use similar magnetic wireless charging to that seen on the Apple Watch.

Apple should steal this iPad multitasking concept right now

This amazing mockup/concept was executed by design student Tommy Rutherling using the Principle app to create the interactive animations.

Director Rian Johnson Breaks Down a Scene from 'Knives Out'

Write and director Rian Johnson talks about making his new movie Knives Out, but in the process reveals a insider tidbit about using Apple products in movies

Direct download: cultcast_429.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:53pm PDT

Fri, 21 February 2020

#428 - New iPads, AirPods, and AirTags, INCOMING

This week: new iPads Pros, new AirPods, and AirTags are incoming, but Apple warns coronavirus could mean big manufacturing delays. Plus: from cut and paste, to Newton, and more—we remember the inventions of tech folk hero Larry Tesler. And stick around for an all new Under Review, where Leander pitches some of the more bizarre shows on TV.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

iPad Pro refresh expected this March, but supplies could be limited

This week's stories

Apple is expected to deliver a big iPad Pro refresh this March, and that’s still on track despite the ongoing coronavirus epidemic, according to a new report. Supplies could be limited at launch, however, with production likely to be slow to ramp up until after April.

Apple warns of iPhone 'supply shortages' due to coronavirus outbreak

The consequences of the coronavirus outbreak will be worse than expected for Apple. The tech firm has warned that global iPhone supply will be "temporarily constrained" while it resumes production.

Wait for ‘AirPods Pro Lite’ will drag on as production is reportedly delayed

We could be waiting longer for the mysterious “AirPods Pro Lite” headphones Apple is rumored to be developing. A new report claims production will not begin during the second half of 2020 as originally planned.

MacBooks may be in short supply after March

Now might be the best time to buy that MacBook you’ve been considering. Factory shutdowns in China because of the coronavirus outbreak will reportedly lead to shortages of components needed to make laptops.

AirTags on the radar for roll out in the second half of 2020

Apple’s fall product launch will include a tiny gadget with a big responsibility: knowing the whereabouts of your devices when you lose them.

What We're Into Picks

Direct download: cultcast_428.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:06am PDT

Thu, 13 February 2020

#427 - iPhone SE 2: the low cost powerhouse!

This week: Apple is prepping iPhone SE 2, but trouble in China could mean massive delays across the entire tech industry. Plus: masOS leaks hint at BIG CPU upgrades on the way; and a famous celebrity calls out Mac’s troubled keyboards.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

iPhone SE 2 could cost $399 just like the first-gen iPhone SE

This week's stories

Apple is ramping up production on the new iPhone SE 2, a report published by Fast Companyover the weekend claims.

Apple manufacturer reopens factory — but fewer than 10% of employees turn up

Key iPhone manufacturer Foxconn continues to feel the effects of the deadly coronavirus outbreak in China. The company recently reopened its factory in the eastern central Chinese city of Zhengzhou, but fewer than 10% of its workforce returned to work, according to Reuters.

Big macOS leak hints at future switch to AMD chips

Could Apple be preparing to make a surprise switch to AMD processors in a future Mac? References to a number of new AMD APUs have been spotted in the latest macOS 10.15.4 beta, which rolled out to developers on Wednesday.

Apple brings Swift Playgrounds to the Mac

Apple’s educational coding app, Swift Playgrounds, has finally made its way to the Mac.

Jojo Rabbit screenwriter vents about ‘horrendous’ MacBook keyboard

Actors love to have some political message to impart to viewers at award shows. At last night’s Oscars, Taika Waititi, winner of the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for Jojo Rabbit, voiced his own passionate plea — for Apple to change its MacBook keyboards.

Direct download: cultcast_427.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:59pm PDT

Thu, 6 February 2020

#426 - iOS 13 beta just leaked ALL SORTS of stuff…

This week: the new iOS 13.4 beta just leaked new hardware, new iPhone features, and MORE. We’ll share aaaaall the juicy details. Plus: how your iPhone might soon replace your car keys; Apple Maps just got a massive update; and Microsoft quietly stole Apple’s secret recipe…

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

iOS 13.4 beta code hints at new Apple TV device

This week's stories

An updated Apple TV 4K could soon roll out of Apple’s product pipeline, based on references to an unreleased product discovered in the latest iOS beta.

Apple’s universal purchases will change how you buy and use apps

Apple is laying the groundwork to make it easier for developers to distribute their apps across all of Apple’s platforms.

CarKey feature buried in iOS beta might let iPhones replace car keys

Apple reportedly added code to iPhone and Apple Watch to let these devices function as car keys, giving users one less thing to constantly carry around.

Apple debuts redesigned Maps with major U.S. improvements

Apple today made its major Maps redesign with big improvements available to all users in the United States.

Microsoft is merging its Windows and hardware teams

Panos Panay, Microsoft's hardware head honcho and the creator of Surface, is set to oversee the Windows team too. The company will reportedly roll the product and Windows groups into a single unit called Windows + Devices later this month with Panay at the helm. The move, which is part of a broader reorganization, is a strong indicator that Microsoft is eager to tie Windows and hardware more closely together.

Direct download: cultcast_426.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:58pm PDT

Thu, 30 January 2020

#425 - New Apple hardware, incoming!

This week: A huge lineup of new Apple products is coming our way. We’ll tell you what we know... Plus: how is Apple doing under Tim Cook’s leadership? We dare to ask the question. And if you thought AppleTV+ felt a little dry on content, Apple’s got a plan for that—buying one of the industries biggest movie studios. WE DISCUSS.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

The biggest surprises from Apple’s shockingly good earnings report

This week's stories

The first Apple earnings report of 2020 was a smashing success that shattered most of Apple’s previous records. Thanks to shockingly strong iPhone sales and a surging wearables business that is bigger than the Mac and the iPad, Apple managed to surpass even the most optimistic expectations.

AirPods Pro supply problems couldn’t stop Apple’s surging wearables business

When Apple reported an all-time record for quarterly revenue Tuesday, it got a big boost from one of its smallest products: the AirPods Pro.

Kuo: Huge 2020 lineup of new Apple products brings AirPower alternative

A new report says major new hardware products are headed our way, including a 4.7-inch LCD iPhone, iPad Pro, MacBook Pro/Air, smaller wireless charging mat, UWB tag, and a high-end Bluetooth headphones.

DoubleTake is a video app that lets you shoot with 2 cameras

A new iOS app lets users simultaneously record video using multiple iPhone cameras. DoubleTake is created by the makers of popular camera app Filmic Pro.

Buying MGM could prove crucial to Apple TV+ growth

Apple is reportedly in talks to buy MGM, which would bring a catalogue of classic and modern movies to the iPhone maker’s streaming video service.

Direct download: cultcast_425.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:52pm PDT

Thu, 23 January 2020

#424 - Why everyone's upset about AirPods Pro

This week: it’s not your imagination, Apple changed AirPods Pro and it made them worse—we’ll tell you what’s going on… Plus: a new report says Apple caved to FBI pressure to keep your iCloud backups less safe. And stay tuned to hear about about Tim Cook’s favorite new… shower tech? Rub a dub dub yaaaaaaaall!

And stick around for our favorite new Netflix shows and crack pipes in an all-new What We're Into.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple reportedly dropped iCloud encryption plans amid FBI pressure

This week's stories

Apple ditched plans to let users fully encrypt backups of their devices using iCloud, a new report by Reuters claims. Apple reportedly made the decision after the FBI complained that this would make it harder to carry out future investigations.

AirPods Pro noise cancellation spoiled by firmware updates, users say

A growing number of users say their buds aren’t blocking out background noise as effectively as they once did. And testing confirms that to be the case.

Now you can shower like Tim Cook without getting soaked

Nebia, the eco-friendly shower head company adored by Tim Cook, unveiled a new version of its shower system today. Unlike the previous two-generations, this one is priced to sell.

What We're Into!

Pax 3 vaporizer crack pipe

Direct download: cultcast_424.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:33pm PDT

Thu, 16 January 2020

#423 - MacBook Pro is about to get PRO-ER

This week: Apple is working on a way to make your existing MacBook Pro far more powerful—we’ll tell you everything we know. Plus: get your wallet ready! Apple is getting ready to release the portable MacBook Pro you’ve been waiting for. And we’ll tell you why Apple may soon be forced ditch Lighting in their iPhones and iPads.

And stick around for our spoiler-free review of the full first season of SEE!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Unreleased ‘Pro Mode’ may bring performance boost to MacBooks

This week's stories

Apple is working on a new software feature for macOS that can crank Macs’ processing powers into overdrive.

Mystery MacBook spilled in new filing ahead of release

Apple has filed for approval of a new MacBook ahead of its official debut. A listing in the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) database reveals a model number of “A2289.” Its description confirms it is a portable Mac.

EU Parliament debates forcing Apple to kill the Lightning port

The European Parliament will soon vote on whether to require all phones, tablets and other mobile devices to use a single type of charger. If passed, this could force Apple to abandon its proprietary Lighting port in future iPhones.

US Attorney General demands Apple unlock Pensacola shooter’s iPhones

Apple could be headed for another collision course with U.S. federal law enforcement, similar to the spat it had with the FBI over creating backdoors into iOS.

Dave Bautista battles onto next season of See

Jason Momoa was the big star of the first season of See on Apple TV+, but he’s reportedly being joined by Dave Bautista, perhaps best known for playing Drax the Destroyer in the Guardians of the Galaxy series.

Direct download: cultcast_423.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:49pm PDT

Thu, 9 January 2020

#422 - Best and worst tech of CES 2020!

This week: Tim Cook strikes back! Ricky Gervais tore Apple a new one live at the Golden Globes, but TC always gets the last laugh... we discuss.

Plus: we round up the coolest, weirdest, and whackiest gadgets announced at the 2020 Consumer Electronics show.

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

@erfon / @lkahney / @mistercharlie

This week's stories

Golden Globes host Ricky Gervais: Apple ‘runs sweatshops in China’

* Apple’s first night at the Golden Globes didn’t go exactly as Tim Cook may have hoped — with none of the nominations for Apple TV+ show The Morning Show resulting in award wins. Adding insult to injury, returning host Ricky Gervais quipped that Apple used sweatshops to make its products. And even drew parallels to terrorist group ISIS.

Why Samsung will probably get away with ‘borrowing’ Face ID icon

* Eagle-eyed viewers spotted something oddly familiar during Samsung’s CES keynote Monday. On a slide regarding Samsung Pass, its new biometric “identity management as-a-service” product, Samsung included a logo that looks (to be polite) “borrowed” from Apple’s Face ID.

Crock-Pot's latest slow cooker comes with Alexa voice control

* Belkin has quietly unveiled a 6 quart Crock-Pot slow cooker with a new twist: you can control it with Amazon Alexa.

Segway’s S-Pod looks weird, but it’s a lot of fun to drive

* Segway’s newest self-balancing vehicle is a strange egg-shaped S-Pod wheelchair.

PiBo is a robotic companion for single people

* It can get lonely living on your own, especially when you've got a landlord that doesn't allow pets or roommates. That’s where PIBO comes in, a cute robotic companion robot from Korean developer, Circulus

Don’t worry: Impossible Foods is already working on fake bacon

* Impossible Foods CEO Pat Brown has revealed that his company is working on a plant-based version of bacon.

Direct download: CultCast_422.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:20pm PDT

Thu, 2 January 2020

#421 - Apple preps a super-charged GAMING Mac!

This week: According to a new report, Apple is prepping a new super-charged GAMING Mac for WWDC! We discuss... Plus: full-screen TouchID will be replacing FaceID in a notch-less 2020 iPhone, at least according to a new rumor. And stick around for the second half where we reveal all our favorite apps of 2019!

This episode supported by

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple could eliminate iPhone’s notch and Face ID for 2020 flagship

This week's stories

Apple could deliver a flagship iPhone without a notch in 2020, according to a new report.
The device is expected to feature a new Touch ID fingerprint scanner integrated into its display — rather than Face ID. Its front-facing camera will also be hidden away behind its screen.
Analysts at Credit Swiss believe Apple will release a high-end iPhone with Touch ID embedded within its screen in 2020. The technology will replace Face ID, allowing Apple to do away with the handset’s notch.

Why I’m not holding my breath for Apple’s rumored gaming Mac [Opinion]

Apple is reportedly working on a new “gaming-focused” Mac that it will unveil at WWDC, a sketchy new rumor claims.
This machine would cost up to $5,000 and be a Mac rival to gaming PCs. It would take aim at the fast growing “e-sports” market, which Apple has not previously catered to. Could such a machine turn Apple into a gaming powerhouse?

My 5 most-used apps this year

For my job at Cult of Mac, I test a lot of apps. But of course, I also use a lot of apps, for work, for recreation, and for making music. I thought I’d make a short list of my most-used apps this year.

Our favorite apps of 2019!

Direct download: cultcast_421.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Thu, 26 December 2019

#420 - Apple enters the SPACE GAME 🚀

This week: Apple is entering the space game with their own fleet of satellites... but why? Plus, we wrap up 2019 with our final picks for Best of the Year!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

Apple exploring satellite network to beam data directly to iPhones

This week's stories

Apple is building a larger research group to investigate ways to transmit data directly to iPhones and other devices, Bloomberg reported Friday.
According to the report, Apple CEO Tim Cook has reportedly made the project a company priority.
Apple is said to be hiring software, hardware, and aerospace engineers to find new methods of data transfer for the iPhone and other products. The goal is to reduce the dependence on traditional wireless carriers.

Direct download: CultCast_420.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:24pm PDT

Thu, 19 December 2019

#419 - All the best stuff of 2019!

This week on The CultCast: From the hottest gift of 2019, to our favorite tech and travel locations, it's more of our picks for Best of the Year!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone 11, Apple Watch, Mac Pro and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

AirPods to hit quarterly sales of $4B, surpassing peak iPod sales

This week's stories

AirPods is has grown into a massive business. How big?
Last year, in Q4 2018, Apple Watch surpassed $4B quarterly in revenue in, overtaking the revenue earned during the best quarter of peak iPod sales, and now it looks like it may be AirPods‘ turn.
Asymco published a research note this week estimates that AirPods could overtake the peak iPod revenue of $4 billion next quarter.
Asymco also believes Apple will see over 50% growth year over year for Wearables.
The research note also predicts a 51% increase y/y for Wearables and 24% growth in Watch. This results in a Watch revenues of about $5.2 billion.

This is your best shot at snagging AirPods Pro today

Even though AirPods Pro are basically sold out everywhere, there’s still a chance you could snag a pair today. And with a simple Siri trick, Apple makes it easy for you to snag 2019’s hottest gift.
If you absolutely want to get AirPods Pro by Christmas, and don’t want to pay a reseller a premium, here’s your best shot for finding a pair ASAP.

Apple joins rivals to create open standard for smart home devices

Apple is teaming up with Amazon, Google, and the Zigbee Alliance to create a new open and royalty-free standard for smart home devices.
Project “Connected Home over IP” aims to increase compatibility among smart home gadgets and make development easier for device manufacturers. It should also simplify smart technology for consumers
This means it shouldn’t matter which smart home platform you’ve chosen to adopt; any and all smart home devices (in the future, at least) should work together seamlessly.

Get ahold of the hot new Cult of Mac book, V2.0!

Direct download: cultcast_419.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:38pm PDT

Fri, 13 December 2019

#418 - Whoa, Mac Pro is a MONSTER

This week on The CultCast: The new Mac Pro proves Apple’s still got it! We cover our first impressions, plus discuss some of the insane upgrades available for Apple’s new powerhouse Mac.

Plus, we reveal more of our favorite tech, shows, movies, and more in our Best of the Year, part 2!

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone XS, Apple Watch, Mac and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week