The CultCast
This week: Happy?  Disappointed?  Downright pissed off?  Don’t miss our Hello Again Mac event reactions!  Plus: everything we know about Apple’s new MacBook Pro, and the two big omissions in Apple TV’s new TV app.
 
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On the show this week
 
What do YOU think of the new MacBook Pros?  Tell us your thoughts on The CultCast sub Reddit.
 
 
Pros
 
  • The new MacBook Pro won’t ship for another 2-3 weeks, but members of the media who got their fingers on the new Touch Bar came away from Apple’s event with rave reviews.
    • Techcrunch: The Touch Bar is, in a word, neat…The strip itself is glossy. Not quite slick, but frictionless enough so as to run a finger across with little effort. It’s quick and responsive, reacting to multi-touch and the amount of pressure the user applies. It also adapts quite quickly as you toggle between different apps.”
  • Versatile - You know get Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.1, Display Port, and charging abilities on every port.
  • Brighter screen with better color
    • Engadget was particularly impressed by the screen on the new MacBook Pro models, calling it "stunning" when in person and "a noticeable upgrade" from the previous generation of MacBook Pros.
  • Massive new trackpad.
  • Headphone jack!
  • Upgraded GPU and processor.
  • 60hz refresh rates on 4K and 5K displays
  • Second-generation “fine tuned” butterfly mechanism keyboard.
  • Now available in Space Gray and Silver
 
Nos
  • Previous MacBook Pros started at $1299 (13”) and $1999 (15”).  New MBPs start at a whopping $1799 (13”) and $2399 (15”).
  • USB C only ports mean dongles for everything, including regular USB peripherals.
  • No SD card slot.
  • No HDMI out.
  • Your current iPhone cable won’t work.
  • Your Thunderbolt cables and peripherals won’t work without Apple’s new $50 adapter.
  • No Magsafe 😥
  • Dongles for literally EVERYTHING:
    • iPhone
    • AirPods
    • SD Card readers
    • Ethernet
    • Thunderbolt 2 peripherals
    • Displayport monitors
  • No other Macs announced or updated
  • AirPods delayed
  • 13" Macbook Air not updated but will continue to be sold for time being.  11” retired.
  • So long non-retina MacBook Pro.
  • Previous gen MacBook Pro with Intel graphics still for sale but at the same price.
 
Apple’s TV app doesn’t work with the two best streaming services
  • Apple revealed its plan to own your TV screen today with a new app called TV. The new service aims to unify your TV experience on iPhone, iPad and Apple TV by taking you straight to content, but the two best streaming services won’t be available.
  • Both Amazon Prime Video and Netflix won’t participate in Apple’s new feature. 
  • Netflix confirmed "we are not participating and evaluating the opportunity”
Direct download: CultCast_255_-_Our_Hello_Again_Mac_Event_Reactions.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:16pm PDT

This week: is Apple is about to make massive updates across the entire Mac line?  Don’t miss our Oct. 27 Mac event predictions!  Plus: everything we know about Nintendo Switch, and why we already love it.
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
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On the show this week
 
Event predications
 
Macbook Pro
It’s been 528 days since its last update (average is 268), and 4 years since its last major overhaul.
We expect an:
  • OLED display bar.
  • Touch ID power button and 4 USB-C ports (with Thunderbolt 3 compatibility)
  • The MagSafe port reportedly will be scrapped.
  • Upgrade to 4K 4096 x 2160 resolution from current 2880x1800 res.
 
Macbook Air, Apple’s cheapest computer
It’s been 591 days since its last update (average is 350).
Overall design of the MacBook Air will likely remain the same.
The machines are expected to be updated with USB-C support, according to a new Bloomberg report.
Updated internals for sure.
Retina display is possible but may not happen since this is now Apple’s budget machine.
According to Macotakara, no more 11 inch.
 
Macbook
Nuthin - The MacBook was updated with Intel Skylake processors and a new Rose Gold color option in April of 2016.
 
iMac
374 days since its last update, with an average of 317.
We haven’t heard a peep about updates.
Likely just updated internals, but possibility of larger screen with curved display.
 
Mac Pro
1037 days since since the Mac Pro released.  No updates since.
Average update is 449 days.
Major internal updates expected with possibly design overhaul.
 
Mac Mini
No rumors.
735 days since last update, average is 438.
We’re expecting internal updates, but that’s probably it.
 
New Cinema Display
In June of 2016 the Cinema display was officially discontinued.
There have been rumors of a new ‘Thunderbolt Display’ that will feature a 5K display and an external GPU in the display itself so under-powered Macs can still run it.
 
A Magic Trackpad 2 with multi-touch and Force Touch was announced on October 13, 2015 along with the Magic Mouse 2 and Magic Keyboard, so probably no updates.  It’s possible we get an updated Magic Keyboard with OLED display bar.
 
First Look at the Nintendo Switch
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_254_-_Hello_indeed.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:29pm PDT

This week: tips, tricks, and techniques to take beautiful iPhone photos and build a following on Instagram. Plus: the crazy exploding Samsung Galaxy Note saga ends in a strange twist; rumors point to Macs with radically new e-ink keyboards;  and an honest look at Siri vs. the AI competition.
 
This episode supported by
 
CultCloth will keep your iPhone 7, Apple Watch, Mac and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time you can get 20% off your order with code JETBLACK at CultCloth.co.
 
And check out Cult of Mac’s new, free fitness eBook! This ebook is your practical how-to guide, covering step by step everything you need to know about getting fit with Apple’s devices.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - Freedom of choice!
 
Earin wireless earbuds
 
Apple may be working on keyboard with e-ink display keys
Buster
  • A Redditor namede Foxconninsider recently posted about a new Smart Keyboard claimed to be a working e-ink keyboard prototype potentially coming to both iMac and MacBook devices sometime in 2018.  
  • The Guardian is now corroborating the keyboard with a claim that Apple CEO, Tim Cook has met with Sonder founder Serra-Martins in while in China.
 
Samsung mercifully puts Galaxy Note 7 out of its misery
  • Samsung has permanently stopped production of its once-acclaimed new smartphone flagship. Owners will be able to return their phones for a refund or to swap it out for another Samsung device.
  • The handset was allegedly rushed to market due to Samsung’s confidence that the iPhone 7 would turn out to be a box office dud.
 
LOL: Galaxy Note 7 return kit includes fire-proof box and gloves
  • If you bought your Note online from Samsung,returning it could be tricky. In the United Kingdom, the Post Office won’t even accept packages that contain the device.
  • Fortunately, Samsung has a solution. Its special Note 7 return kit was designed with explosions in mind, and it includes thermally-insulated packaging with a ceramic fiber paper lining, and gloves that ensure you won’t suffer burns while handling the device.
 
Mossberg: Why does Siri seem so dumb?
  • When was the last time Siri delighted you with a satisfying and surprising answer or action?
  • Siri started as an iOS app in 2009, then was purchased by Apple and introduced again in the iPhone 4S
  • It seems to me that Apple has wasted its lead with Siri. And now Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Facebook and others are on the march
  • If you try and treat Siri like a truly intelligent assistant, aware of the wider world, it often fails
  • (Weather on Crete, Presidential Nominees) Google Now, on the same Apple devices, using the same voice input, answered every one of these questions clearly and correctly
  • Siri is too limited and unreliable to be an effective weapon for Apple in the coming AI wars. It seems stagnant
Direct download: CultCast_253_-_Eatercising.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:32am PDT

This week: revamped iPads coming this spring; Apple lays the groundwork for the next era of personal technology; how smart homes get hacked; Google’s Pixel phone vs. iPhone 7; and we reveal our favorite new iOS and Mac apps!
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
Easiest
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why at Casper.com/cultcast and get $50 towards any mattress with code "CultCast".
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - Do you even scan, bro?
 
We’re glad to see they’re putting them to good use
 
Replacement Galaxy Note 7 catches fire on a plane
  • Southwest Airlines was forced to evacuate a flight from Louisville to Baltimore this morning before it hit the runway, thanks to a Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphone that caught fire.
  • The owner of the Galaxy Note 7 said he got the new phone on September 21st at an AT&T store. Before the flight left the gate, the owner says he powered it down and put it in his pocket when it started smoking.
  • Thick grey-green smoke poured out of the device after the owner dropped it on the floor. In a matter of moments it had burned through the plane’s carpet.
  • “All passengers and crew exited the plane via the main cabin door and no injuries were reported,”
 
 
With new hardware trio, Google makes major play for your home
  • During an event in San Francisco today, Google unveiled a new Wi-Fi router, an improved Chromecast with 4K support, and a new Google Home device that’s a lot like Amazon’s Echo smart speaker, only it’s powered by Google Assistant.
  • Google Home allows owners to use voice commands to do stuff like play music on YouTube, Google Play Music or Spotify. You can also ask Google Home to play podcasts or news feeds.
 
AirPods point to Apple’s domination of ‘ambient paradigm’
 
Three new iPads Pro are coming early next year
  • Apple is set to debut a trifecta of new iPad Pro models in Q1 2017, according to a new report
  • Mac Okatara suggests that the 12.9-inch and 7.9-inch iPad Pros will get the same 12MP iSight camera and True Tone technology that the 9.7-inch iPad Pro currently has. All three models will also supposedly receive quad microphones and, in something of a pleasant surprise, 3.5mm headphone jacks.
  • If Apple’s yearly product cycle wasn’t enough of a hint that a new iPad was on the way, Apple’s iPad Pro tablets both received discounts of up to $100 after Apple’s iPhone 7 media event last month. This announcement coincided with a storage upgrade for other iPad models.
 
Let’s talk about apps, man
 
Leander
 
Buster
 
Erfon
Direct download: CultCast_252_-_Galaxy_Grenades.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:28am PDT

This week: reports point to a big Mac event coming in October!  We’ll tell you why we expect more than just overhauled MacBook Pros...  Plus: we remember Steve Jobs, and what made him so damned good; why the jet black iPhone 7 is impossible to find; and stay tuned for drone chat, where we discuss the super cool new drones hitting the market.
 
This episode supported by
 
Dollar Shave Club delivers amazing razors right to your door for a third of the price of what the greedy razor corporations charge.  Try it yourself with your first month free at DollarShaveClub.com/CultCast.
 
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We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - The Extraordinary Powerbook
 
Long-awaited MacBook Pro update might land in October
  • MacRumors has reported that Apple is moving rapidly toward a launch of the new MacBook Pro models, with current development work on macOS 10.12.1 focused largely on preparing the operating system to support the updated hardware's new features
  • Apple hasn’t made a significant update to the MacBook Pro lineup since May 2015
  • According to MacRumors‘ report, Apple is just waiting for development of macOS 10.12.1 to finish so it can support the updated hardware’s new features. Apple is supposedly planning to seed one more beta version of macOS 10.12.1 early next week. That version will then be polished and loaded onto hardware currently being produced.
  • rumored by several sources to include Touch ID support and an OLED "touch bar" replacing the current row of function keys across the top of keyboard. Apple is also said to be shifting to "Polaris" graphics chips from AMD on the higher-end 15-inch models. 
  • iMac 352/317 (days since update/average)
  • MBP 500/268
  • MBA 570/350
  • Mac Mini 714/438
  • Mac Pro 1015/449
 
Here’s why jet black iPhone 7 is impossible to find
  • Apple’s new jet black iPhone 7 is nearly impossible to find at stores, and the shortage isn’t going to get better anytime soon, according to one of the most accurate Apple analysts in the game.
  • KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo told investors in a research note today that Apple is having trouble with production of the jet black cases.
  • A substantial number of cases don’t meet quality standards for the jet black finish, which is already susceptible to scratches.
  • Apple had to create an entirely new process to produce the high-gloss black finish, which is why it’s so hard for manufacturers to get their yield rates up.
 
 
DJI’s tiny Mavic Pro drone will land at Apple Stores
  • The battle for droning supremacy is heating up today after DJI revealed its tiny new Mavic Pro drone that will take on GoPro’s new Karma drone system.
  • DJI’s new Mavic Pro drone features a folding design that can compress the device down to the size of a water bottle.
  • DJI strapped a 4K video camera on a 3-axis gimbal. It can also take 12MP RAW stills in either portrait or landscape mode thanks to the gimbal that can be controlled via an iPhone.
  • $750 - drone only
  • $999 drone with remote
  • $1300 with extra batteries, quick charger, propellers, bag, etc
  • Ships Oct. 15, in Apple Stores in November
 
Casey Neistat loves the DJi Mavic Pro drone
Direct download: CultCast_251_-_Big_October_Mac_event_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:24pm PDT

This week: seven days with iPhone 7 and Apple Watch Series 2—well tell you what we love (and don’t) about Apple’s newest iPhone and Watch.  Plus: Hissgate, explained; auto-unlocking your Mac with an Apple Watch; and if you’re wondering how to use picture-in-picture mode on Youtube videos in macOS Sierra, we’ll reveal just how to get it working.
 
This episode supported by
 
Dollar Shave Club delivers amazing razors right to your door for a third of the price of what the greedy razor corporations charge.  Try it yourself with your first month free at DollarShaveClub.com/CultCast.
 
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We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Let the lovely lady Lisa enchant you
 
iPhone 7 display is the best LCD ever tested
  • Apple’s new LCD display was rated as “visually indistinguishable from perfect” when it comes to image contrast and intensity. The tiniest amount of color variation, seen when viewing the screen from an angle, also yielded top marks.
  • The DisplayMate report calls the touchscreen display the “crown jewel of the smartphone”
  • One thing that gives the iPhone 7 display a competitive advantage is its adoption of two standard color gamuts: The new DCI-P3 wide color gamut used in 4K UHD TVs, and the smaller sRGB/Rec.709 gamut traditionally used in digital cameras, TVs, computers and most other consumer devices.
  • The test also found that the iPhone 7’s peak brightness can only be achieved when Automatic Brightness is turned on. This prevents users from draining their battery in a flash by accidentally keeping the slider all the way up.
 
Hissgate: iPhone 7 Plus emits strange noise when under heavy load
  • Some iPhone 7 Plus owners are reporting that Apple’s new devices emit a strange hissing noise when performing processor-intensive tasks. And no one is sure what’s causing it.
  • It appears that Hissgate only effects a small number of devices. Cult of Mac has not been able to replicate the hissing problem on any of our new iPhones.
  • Engadget theorized that it could be a “coil whine” and is likely a small manufacturing defect instead of an overall design flaw.
  • Apple looks to be replacing phones which present the issue
 
Apple Watch Series 2 review: A tick closer to perfection
Buster
  • For the past 16 months, Apple’s wearable and I have had an on-again, off-again relationship.
  • Apple Watch Series 2 is supposed to be wicked fast at this, but there’s just one problem. The device’s screen never shows “GPS” or another indicator to prove it’s connected. You just have to take it on faith that there’s a connection behind the scenes.
  • It still can’t track your elevation. There’s a huge difference in difficulty between running 5 miles on flat roads verses 5 miles with a 2,000-foot elevation gain.
  • The only way to get your elevation data is to pack your iPhone along for the ride.
  • This watch is screaming fast.
  • I didn’t notice any major gains in battery life, so it’s likely that all the extra juice is being used to power the new GPS chip and display.
Direct download: CultCast_250_-_Seven_days_with_iPhone_7.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:44pm PDT

This week: should you buy Airpods?  The reviews are in, and we’re excited.  Plus: the iPhone 7 carrier deals you need to know about; iPhone 7 smashes pre-order expectations; Series 1 vs. Series 2 Apple Watch; and, Apple, the new NASA?
 
This episode supported by
 
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We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - Whole Earth Access has the Macintosh you’ve been looking for!
 
T-Mobile CEO: iPhone 7 is shaping up to be a smash hit
  • According to charismatic T-Mobile CEO John Legere, reports about a supposed lack of interest in the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus are way overblown.
  • “So I don’t know what everyone is doing, but it’s like four times bigger than the iPhone 6 for us at this order stage,” he said, calling orders thus far a “phenomenon.” 
 
Apple won’t have any iPhone 7 Plus models for sale in stores on Friday  
  • It’s completely sold out, as is the smaller iPhone in Jet Black
 
Our pre-order experiences (discussion)
 
AT&T/T-Mobile/Verizon iPhone 7 deals are bonkers (discussion)
 
Thoughts on watchOS 3 and the Apple Watch Series 1 vs. Series 2  (discussion)
 
AirPods review roundup: A nice idea with room for improvement
  • We’ll have to wait until October to get our hands on Apple’s new wireless AirPods, but select reviewers have been granted early access to help us decide whether they’re worth their $159 price tag.
 
Impressions
  • “There’s nothing to break or tangle, nothing to plug in, nothing to get caught on a stranger’s backpack on the train every freaking day. Just sweet aural freedom.”   “sit in my ears, actually better than EarPods, and remained in place even while running” David Pierce at Wired
  • Chris Velazco of Engadget writes that he’s “stunned Apple squeezed as much tech into the AirPods as they did.”
 
 
Sound
  • Most reviewers concluded that AirPods sound almost exactly like EarPods.
  • Engadget review. “In general, the AirPods gave mids a little more meat than EarPods did, and drum fills felt crisper and more precise. My test tracks… came across warmer than I would have expected.”
  • Another review wrote “I’m no audiophile, but to me, the AirPods sound nearly identical to Apple’s wired EarPods.” 
 
Siri
  • “Having Siri two taps away isn’t just the best thing about the AirPods. It’s the reason they exist,” writes David Pierce. “It’s easy to imagine Apple making the AirPods the centerpiece of how you interact with all your devices, particularly as Siri becomes more important.”
  • “Consider this the first step towards a future where we no longer have to stare at a screen to get things done,” adds Business Insider. “Siri… can always be there, responding to your queries by buzzing in your ear, almost like in the movie “Her.”
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_249_-_JazzHands.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:20pm PDT

This episode: our iPhone 7 event reactions! iPhone 7, AirPods, the new Apple Watch—we’ll cover everything Apple announced this week, and tell you what we like, what we don’t, and what we’ll be spending our own hard-earned monies on.  Plus: Nintendo's big move into iOS, and how to lock down the exact iPhone you want when the pre-orders go live..
 
This episode supported by
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
And our thanks to Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Shot on iPhone - Tim Cook’s exquisite football photo
Direct download: CultCast_248_-_iPhone_7_event_reactions.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:28pm PDT

This week: what new hardware will Apple bestow upon us at the iPhone 7 event next week?  Don’t miss our predictions!  Plus: new video shows iPhone 7 Plus in the wild;  and we explain Apple’s Irish tax woes, then argue about it.
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
Easiest
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
What do you think we’ll see at Apple’s iPhone 7 event?  Join us on Reddit!
 
Intro, who needs a desk?
 
Apple sends out invites for iPhone 7 event on September 7
  • Apple just sent out press invitation to a special event to be held September 7 at 10 a.m. Pacific. The iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus are expected to be unveiled at the event.
  • dual-lens camera on the iPhone 7 Plus could be the most groundbreaking new feature added this year. Other additions are likely to include a new pressure-sensitive Touch ID button, a faster A10 processor, an improved camera on the iPhone 7 Plus, and a new casing with fewer antenna lines. The iPhone 7 will also boast faster LTE, a bigger battery and more.
 
Apple will package Lightning EarPods and adapter with iPhone 7
  • A new image circulating online, purporting to be insert documentation for the upcoming iPhone 7, appears to confirm that Apple will be bundling Lightning EarPods as part of its next-gen handsets.
 
New video shows working iPhone 7 Plus in the wild
  • Notorious Apple leaker Sonny Dickson posted a short video of the three plus-size iPhones this morning, confirming many of the rumors that have claimed this year’s update won’t contain any huge design changes.
  • The back of the iPhone 7 Plus in Dickson’s video reveals that the device will indeed come with a highly anticipated dual-lens camera, though it won’t pick up a Smart Connector
 
Tim Cook: Apple’s tax bill will have a ‘harmful’ effect on investment in EU
  • Tim Cook has written an open letter addressing Apple’s enormous tax bill
  • The European Union recently ruled that Apple owes  €13 billion ($14.52 billion) in back taxes
  • Cook also states that suggestions Apple has an illegal sweetheart deal in Ireland, “has no basis in fact or in law,” confirms Apple will appeal the European Commission’s ruling
  • The Irish government has said it is happy with its tax arrangement with Apple and doesn’t want the money.
  • Ireland’s finance ministry has sided with Apple, and said it “disagrees profoundly” with the decision.
  • The European Commission's issue is really not with Apple but with Ireland.
  • The commission is not a tax authority; instead, its job is to maintain fairness between the EU member states.
  • Countries are able to set their own tax rates, but country can’t offer something special that's seen as benefiting an individual company.
  • In 1991,  Ireland (who’s economy was struggling) signed off on a plan in which Apple would move money to a stateless "head office”.
  • "Apple entered into a deal with Ireland to not pay tax on all those profits,” and Apple paid "an arbitrarily small amount to Ireland in return for a promise to keep jobs in Ireland.” (The kept 6000 there.)
  • Low corporate tax was one way Ireland improved its economy and attracted big companies, and Apple was one of the early companies to benefit.
Direct download: CultCast_247_-_Kahney_s_Shady_Banana_Tree_Holdings_LTD.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:28pm PDT

This week:  You’ve heard of Samsung’s Galaxy Edge… but is an iPhone 8 Plus Edge on the way?  Some respected analysts say yes.  Plus: iPhone 7 Plus with dual lens was just spotted on the streets; iOS 9.3.5 fixes one of the most invasive iOS exploits to date; Tim Cook just made FAT STACKS of cash; and if the rumors prove true, Apple is working on a new social network… to take on Snap Chat.  No, seriously.
 
This episode supported by
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
And our thanks to Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Drink it in, my friends
 
Galaxy Note 7 vs iPhone 6S Speed Test
 
Taiwanese superstar posts picture of himself using iPhone 7 Plus
  • Taiwanese actor and singer Jimmy Lin has been photographed using what appears to be a new iPhone 7 Plus, complete with its rumored dual-lens camera and LED flash.
  • Lin previously managed to get his hands on advance units of the iPhone 5 in 2012 and iPhone 6 in 2014 — both of which turned out to be the real deal.
 
Apple's 2017 Curved OLED iPhone to Be a New Premium Model
  • Apple is planning to release at least three new iPhones next year, including a high-end model with a 5.5-inch-or-larger OLED display that is curved on both sides like Samsung's Galaxy S7 edge, according to Nikkei
  • Ming Chi Kuo's research note this week outlined three new iPhone models are coming, including LCD-based 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch models and a high-end OLED-based 5.8-inch model, as one possibility providing supply of AMOLED displays is sufficient. 
 
Apple rolls out iOS 9.3.5 to beef up security [Update]
  • iOS 9.3.5 fixes a serious vulnerability that allows our devices to be snooped on. Software created by Israeli company NSO Group took advantage of the hole to read text messages and emails, to record calls, and to steal contacts.
Tim Cook just unlocked a monstrous bonus
Buster
  • Today marks Tim Cook’s five-year anniversary as the CEO of Apple, and as a reward for making it this long in the top spot he just unlocked a monster bonus. $100 million!
  • Apple awarded Cook 980,000 Apple shares for his performance as part of the larger compensation package he signed in 2011. Based on Apple stock’s Tuesday closing price of $108.85, the shares are currently worth around 106.7 million.
  • Despite the big pay day, Cook’s estimated wealth of $650 million is relatively modest by Silicon Valley standards, but he’s planning to donate most of it to charity anyway.
 
Apple could go head to head with Snapchat in 2017
  • A new report from Bloomberg is claiming that Apple is in the process of developing its own Snapchat rival.
  • The company, "seeking to capitalize on the popularity of social networks," will focus on video in the new app, letting users record a video, edit it, apply a filter, add doodles, and then send it out to friends.
  • The app is being developed in the same Apple department that developed Final Cut Pro and iMovie software
Direct download: CultCast_246_-_iPhone_8_Plus_Edge_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:16pm PDT

This week: leaks point to some excellent upgrades coming to the smaller iPhone 7—we’ll give you the scoop.  Plus: get ready for iPhone 7, we have a launch date; Apple Watch 2 leaks points to the arrival of a sorely-needed feature; new models and “revolutionary” upgrades are coming to the iPad line; and stick around for CultCast Choices, the game that pits one bad choice against another.
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
If you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love CultCloth.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - Things to do!
 
The Apple Store is dead
  • The Apple Store is no longer called the Apple Store.
  • Apple has begun dropping “Store” from the name of its 479 retail locations worldwide, so they are now referred to simply as “Apple.”
  • The store pages on Apple’s website now refer to its locations using names like “Apple Union Square,” “Apple Fifth Avenue,” and “Apple The Grove,” as opposed to the former “Apple Store, Union Square,” “Apple Store, Fifth Avenue,” and “Apple Store, The Grove.”
 
iPhone 7 may launch on September 23
  • Apple’s next iPhone could be available to the public as soon as September 23rd, based on a new leak that reveals AT&T plans to do a big “Merchandising Reset” at all stores that day.
  • The unveiling of the iPhone 7 is rumored to take place on September 7th with pre-orders to follow two days later
  • The leaked AT&T scheduling information shows that stores will need to spend up to three hours on a merchandising reset September 9th, indicating advertisements for iPhone 7 pre-orders will go on display that morning.
 
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus won’t be joined by an iPhone 7 Pro this fall
Killian
  • Japanese blog Macotakara, whose sources have been reliable in the past, confirms that this year’s iPhone’s will be labeled iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus — just as expected.
  • They also promise that the devices will bring “greatly improved” cameras, Apple’s A10 chip, and a capacitive home button that’s expected to be pressure-sensitive
 
iPhone 7’s second speaker grille may be just for show
Killian
  • iPhone 7 housing schematics acquired by NowhereElse suggest the speaker grilles on one side of Apple’s upcoming handsets is purely cosmetic to make the bottom edge look more symmetrical, though it won’t be totally useless.
  • It appears Apple will place the iPhone’s microphone behind this grille, so some of the holes will serve a purpose.
 
Leaked iPhone 7 camera hints at big improvements
Buster
 
  • While most of this years iPhone camera rumors have focused on the dual-lens module coming to the iPhone 7 Plus, a leaked iPhone 7 rear camera part hints at some big improvements coming to the smaller device.
  • The image below leaked by NowhereElse claims to show the iPhone 7’s iSight camera which appears to include the addition of optical image stabilization to make photos sharper than ever.
  • Other leaks have revealed that the lens on the iPhone 7 iSight camera will be larger than previous models which should have a big impact on how much light it can capture and the quality of pictures.
 
Apple Watch 2 will get GPS but no LTE
Buster
  • Although Apple plans to add a number of much needed features to the Apple Watch 2, a new report claims the company hit roadblocks when trying to make a major change that would have added LTE or other cellular data connection capabilities to the device.
  • “The company still plans to announce new watch models this fall boasting improvements to health tracking,” reports Bloomberg. “The updated versions will also be able to integrate GPS-based location tracking.”
 
10.5-inch iPad Pro coming in 2017, OLED upgrade in 2018
  • Apple will ship three new iPads next year, according to well-connected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo — including a low-cost 9.7-inch iPad, upgraded 12.9-inch iPad Pro, and a new 10.5-inch iPad Pro variant as well.
  • But 2018, that’s the year in which Kuo promises “revolutionary” upgrades, which will include a “radical” change in form factor as well as an AMOLED display.
  • Interestingly, there’s no mention made of the 7.9-inch iPad mini, which could conceivably be phased out in order avoid direct competition with Apple’s larger plus-sized iPhone models.
Direct download: CultCast_245__-_Tuck_tails.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:32pm PDT

This week: new Macbook Pros, incoming!  We have even more details to share on the “significant” updates coming soon to Apple’s Macbook Pro line.  Plus: iPhone 7 may get a Quad HD display and pressure-sensitive home button; Apple’s plans for a “killer” new health device; and we review our favorite new hover boards and smart scales on an all new Under Review.
 
This episode supported by
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
And our thanks to Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Apple said to be developing ‘killer’ health device for 2017
 
Apple ditched plan to make three iPhone 7 models
 
Direct download: CultCast_244_-_The_new_Pros_Cometh.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:16pm PDT

This week: the controversy around iOS 10’s new gun emoji;  we compare Instagram’s new stories feature to Snapchat's; Gwyneth Paltrow brings her coding skills to ‘Planet of the Apps’; we attended a 5-day Apple II festival, we’ll tell you the cool parts; and stick around for the best ways to find specific Pokémon in 'Pokémon GO’.
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
If you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love CultCloth.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Gwyneth Paltrow is bringing her coding skills to ‘Planet of the Apps’
Paltrow will be joined by will.i.am and serial entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk on the show where all three will serve as mentors and advisors to app developers in the series that will reportedly act as a launch pad to exceptional developers.
 
iOS 10 adds 100+ emoji to promote gender equality
  • The latest beta build of iOS 10 seeded to developers this morning brings more gender options to existing characters like the surfer, runner, weightlifter, detective, construction worker and much more.
  • The pistol emoji has been changed to a water gun, too
 
Apple is replacing the pistol emoji with a squirt gun
  • Emojis are not made by Apple. They are selected, designed and coded by a nonprofit organization called the Unicode Consortium.
  • Platforms like Apple, Microsoft, Samsung and Facebook decide exactly how those characters will appear on the device you're using.
  • Apple is reinterpreting how it will "read" the pistol emoji. Instead of depicting it as a metal revolver, it will show the green toy water pistol.
  • In June, Apple asked the Unicode Consortium to exclude a scoped shooting rifle from the upcoming set of emojis. Unicode complied, and the rifle was scrapped.
  • Emoji are funny, but they’re also a powerful way to communicate. This move by Apple communicates that tools of violence and death shouldn’t be part of our light-hearted, ubiquitous lexicon. (the Guardian)
 
Instagram’s new feature is a ripoff of Snapchat Stories
  • company introduced Instagram Stories, which lets you share multiple photos and videos in a single slideshow. It can be shared with select followers without showing up on your more public profile. It then disappears 24 hours later.
  • It functions in the same way as the Stories feature on Snapchat
 
There's a new way to find specific Pokémon in 'Pokémon GO,' and it works
Direct download: CultCast_243_-_Bustin_a_squirt.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:40pm PDT

This week:  iPhone 7 gets a new 3D Touch home button and a September 9th launch date!  Plus: why we may be only weeks away from Apple’s Macbook Pro and Apple Watch 2 launch event; the big gun is back—Apple puts Big Bob Mansfield at the helm of their top secret Apple Car project; one of the internet’s best web series is now an Apple Music exclusive; and stick around for apps, man—we’ve got some sweet picks for you.
 
This episode supported by
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
James Cordon carpools with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and it’s magical
 
Apple just sold its billionth iPhone!
  • One billion iPhone devices have officially been sold now since Steve Jobs unveiled the magical smartphone back in 2007, the company revealed today.
 
iPhone 7 pre-orders will reportedly open on September 9
  • The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus will reportedly be made available for pre-order on September 9, according to well-connected tipster Evan Blass.
  • Keynote on Monday the 5th or Tuesday the 6th
 
iPhone 7 might not go by the name you’re expecting
  • A new rumor coming out of China suggests that September’s next-gen iPhone won’t be called the iPhone 7 as expected, but rather the iPhone 6SE — continuing the naming scheme Apple introduced for its 4-inch iPhone SE earlier this year.
    • so far it’s just a rumor citing Chinese supply chain sources. 
  • A separate report, meanwhile, suggests that it’s likely to debut on Friday, September 16. That’s just two months’ away…
  • The slightly-earlier-than-usual launch date was “revealed” by tipster Evan Blass, who has a strong track record when it comes to this type of information.
 
iPhone 7 may get 3D Touch home button
  • Apple allegedly plans to replace its physical home button on the iPhone 7 (or iPhone 6 SE) with a new 3D Touch button that won’t move when you press it, but well instead give users a haptic feedback to replicate the feeling of pressing a button, like on the Magic Trackpad 2.
  • Macotakara claims to have heard from supply chain sources that the company will indeed include the feature on this year’s model, making it a bit more interesting than anticipated.
  • The new home button design will supposedly be flush with the rest of the body, making the iPhone more waterproof than ever now that there are fewer paths for water to enter the device and destroy the internal components.
 
Surprise! Apple Watch 2 set to arrive this fall
  • The long-awaited next version of the Apple Watch will supposedly be unveiled this fall
  • Apple Watch 2’s big unveiling will happen in either September or October, claims DigiTimes
  • Future Apple Watch updates are expected to add LTE data, GPS, longer battery life and faster performance.
 
Apple puts Bob Mansfield in driving seat for secret car project
  • Bob Mansfield has been chosen to head up Apple’s “secret” electric car project three years after stepping down from his executive role, according to a new report.
  • Mansfield first joined Apple in 1999 and retired in June 2012, but just two months later, it was confirmed that he was staying on to work on “future projects.” Mansfield was then named senior vice president of technologies in October 2012.
  • Mansfield was previously in charge of Mac hardware at Apple and led development of products like the MacBook Air, iMac and iPad.
  • Mansfield was previously making only occasional visits to Apple; however, employees recently noticed in the company directory that all senior managers working on the car project are now reporting directly to him.
  • “Apple now has Mr. Mansfield running the company’s secret autonomous, electric-vehicle initiative, code-named Project Titan,” reports The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the matter.
 
‘Carpool Karaoke’ TV show will be an Apple Music exclusive
  • James Corden’s popular ‘Carpool Karaeoke’ segment from The Late Late Show on CBS is set to become its own show later this year and you’ll only be able to watch in on Apple Music.
  • The viral segment has been a breakout hit of 2016 thanks to appearances from the likes of Adele, Justin Bieber, Michelle Obama, Elton John and dozens of other stars who drive around Los Angeles singing popular songs.
 
Our Apps, Man picks
Buster - Photo pills
 
Erfon - Tinycards
 
Leander - Ultimate ears speakers and their companion apps
Direct download: CultCast_242_-_Big_Bobs_Back.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:59pm PDT

This week: leaked codenames might mean no iPhone 7 Pro; a new trademark alludes to a new wireless version of your white-wired EarPods; forget the debit card, Apple Pay is coming to an ATM near you; and, have you outgrown Apple’s Calendar, Mail, Notes, or other native apps?  We’ll tell you our favorite replacements!
 
This episode supported by
 
If you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love CultCloth.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
AirPods trademark appears to confirm Apple’s wireless future
Buster
  • it appears that Apple is definitely planning to make some wireless earbuds of its own, based on some recently discovered trademark filings.'
  • MacRumors have found evidence that appears to confirm Apple will be releasing wireless EarPods, dubbed, Airpods
  • An amendment filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office review process shows that Apple used a shell company called Entertainment in Flight to trademark the term “AirPods.”
  • Apple used similar tactics to register the “iPad” and “CarPlay” trademarks. It did the same for “iWatch” too but discarded the name.
 
iPhone 7 code names leave no room for ‘Pro’ model
  • Apple leaker Evan Blass has taken to twitter to alert the world that there will be only two iPhone 7 models coming up, Sonora and Dos Palos.
  • This would imply there will be no iPhone 7 Pro, just your regular iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
  • He’s got a great track record.
 
Our favorite replacements to the native apps
 
Direct download: CultCast_241_-_Hands_off_our_pokballs.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00pm PDT

Guest Blake J. Harris, author of Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle that Defined a Generation, regales us with the story of the 90s video game battle that pitted newcomer, Sega of America, against Nintendo, an unstoppable force, and maker of Mario Brothers, Duck Hunt, and the beloved Nintendo Entertainment System.

Direct download: CC2ndHour-The_Console_Wars_with_Blake_J._Harris.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:25pm PDT

This week: why Pokemon Go is the smash iOS hit Nintendo needed;  iPhone 7 may get the extended battery life we’ve all been asking for;  Cult of Mac’s bizarre connection to Apple’s new Planet of the Apps TV show; and... which is manlier summer attire, mid-rift shirts or short shorts?  We answer life’s most intriguing questions on an all-new Get To Know Ur Cultist.
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
If you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love CultCloth.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - The new Apple IIc
 
 
iPhone 7 might finally bring the feature everybody wants
Buster
  • The upcoming iPhone 7 may pack a juicy 1960mAh battery inside its simplified shell, according to a new rumor from OnLeaks.
  • The often-reliable Apple leaker says he’s not 100% sure it will happen, but he’s right, it would be about a 15% increase in capacity over the 1715mAh battery in the iPhone 6s.
 
Apple posts open casting call for Planet of the Apps TV show
Buster
  • Apple is looking for a few talented developers to star in the inaugural season of its first ever reality TV series that will focus on the hard knock life of developers and the apps they create.
  • Helmed by executive producers Will.i.am, Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens of Biggest Loser fame, the series has teamed up with Product Hunt to go on a four city tour to find the country’s best up-and-coming app developers. The producers are touting Planet of the Apps as not just a reality TV show, but also as a “launch pad and accelerator for exceptional developers.”
  • Upcoming casting calls are scheduled for San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin and New York. Interested developers must apply by Friday, August 26 with an app for either iOS, tvOS, watchOS or macOS.
  • Apple says those selected will be given the chance to receive guidance from some of the tech community’s top experts. They’ll also get premium placement on the App Store and access to funding from Silicon Valley VCs.
 
Pokémon Go continues its global invasion this week
The game is officially available only in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand right now, but it is already a huge success. According to data from analytics firm SimilarWeb, the game already has more users than Tinder.
Pokémon Go will continue its global invasion later this week as it expands its reach into Europe and Asia.
The title has already become a smash hit, causing Nintendo shares to rocket 25 percent despite the game only being available in a small number of regions.
 
Get to know your Cultist
  • A movie we've seen at least 25 times and still love.
    • Leander - Apocalypse Now, Wild bunch, Onion field
    • Buster - Step brothers, Pineapple Express, Night at the Rockbury
    • Erfon - Star Trek VI the Undiscovered Country, Indiana Jones The Last Crusade
  • Albums we love listening to from start to finish.
    • Leander - Sandinista by The Clash
    • Buster - Explosions in the Sky
    • Erfon - Ten by Pearl Jam, Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too by the New Radicals
Direct download: CultCast_240_-_Pokemania.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:12pm PDT

This week: the best ways to get your gadgets the AppleCare protection you want, but without the AppleCare prices you don’t.  Plus: the iPhone 7 may have more storage than you expected; taking over Tidal could mean CD quality streaming is coming to Apple Music; hands on with the iOS 10 and macOS Sierra betas; “the fappening” hacker heads to the slammer; this year’s iPhone Photography Award winners prove your iPhone is all your need to create captivating images. 
 
This episode supported by
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
@erfon / @bst3r / @lkahney / david@cultofmac.com
 
Intro - iPhone camera changes the game
 
iOS 10 and macOS Sierra betas are now open to the public
Buster
  • Apple is now letting members of its public beta program install the new software, which debuted last month at WWDC.
  • If you haven’t already signed up to get in on the betas, you can still do so at the Apple Beta Software Program site. Once you’re in the program, you’ll get an email with a link to download the latest builds.
 
Apple might buy struggling competitor Tidal
Buster
  • A new report claims that the iPhone-maker is in exploratory talks to acquire the music streaming service.
  • “The talks are ongoing and may not result in a deal,” reports the Wall Street Journal, which says Apple is considering buying the company as a way to bolster its strategy to spend tons of cash on artist exclusives.
  • Tidal was launched in 2014, purchased by Jay Z in 2015, and promised artists greater revenues than those offered by Spotify and Apple Music.
  • Both Apple and Tidal are remaining silent about rumors of the talks. Terms of the possible deal haven’t been revealed
 
iPhone 7 might kill measly 16GB storage option at last
Buster
  • The cheapest model iPhone 7 units will come with 32GB of storage by default, reports the Wall Street Journal in a wide-ranging article that covers possible features Apple’s latest smartphone will have.
  • The increase in storage has been rumored for a few months now, with other reports claiming Apple will also add a 256GB option for those who need even more storage.
  • Other new features expected to be added include a simplified case design, new dual-lens camera, better waterproofing, no headphone jack and Lightning EarPods.
 
‘Celebgate’ hacker pleads guilty to cracking iCloud accounts
 
  • A hacker who broke into more than 30 iCloud accounts has pleaded guilty for his role in the “Celebgate” leak of 2014. Edward Majerczyk faces up to five years in prison for illegally obtaining private celebrity photos.
  • Majerczyk, 28, worked alongside Ryan Collins, who pleaded guilty to his role in the hack back in March, to create a phishing scam that tricked celebrities into entering login information into fake websites.
  • They then used this information to obtain access to over 300 Gmail and iCloud accounts.
 
Should you get Apple Care/Apple Care + 
 
Direct download: CultCast_239_-_FourChins.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:47pm PDT

This week: You’ll laugh, you’ll cry—wait till you hear the latest lawsuit aimed right at Apple’s biggest products.  Plus: leaked photos of EarPods with a lightning connector look better than expected; why we may never get 3rd party Apple Watch faces; Netflix adding a feature they swore would never happen; and a man builds a vibrant photography career in the world of sports with nothing but his iPhone. Oh, and Val Kilmer dances with a carrot in his derriere.  Just hit play already.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
@erfon / @bst3r / @lkahney / david@cultofmac.com
 
Intro - Young Bill Gates, thoughts on the Macintosh
 
Netflix to add offline viewing by the end of 2016
  • Netflix is working to bring offline viewing to its smartphone and tablet apps by the end of 2016, according to sources familiar with its plans.
  • Netflix rival Amazon Prime Instant Video added this functionality last September
  • Now industry insider and Penthera COO Dan Taitz promises that “download-to-go” will be available by the end of the year.
  • Penthera specializes in providing video downloading technology to customers like Comcast, Charter Communications, and more.
John Gruber: Don't Ever Expect Third Party Watch Faces on Apple Watch
  • [Apple] they do fancy themselves to be a real watch company. And as a real watch company everything you’re going to see is going to be San Fransisco. Now they could enforce that for third-parties possibly.
  • Any analog dial is going to use those Apple-styled hands. The capsule-shaped hands. And watch  companies typically have things like that. For example, the hands on a Rolex are instantly recognizable. In the dials are unmistakably Rolex-styled dials.  And Apple fancies itself as a high end watch company.
 
Gaze upon iPhone 7’s Lightning EarPods in all their glory
  • New photos of what are claimed to be Apple’s next-generation EarPods all but confirm that its iPhone 7 series will ship without the beloved headphone jack.
  • The new EarPods, which surfaced on Chinese micro-blogging website Weibo, swap the 3.5mm jack we’ve been using for decades for a Lightning connector.

 
Apple sued by man who claims he invented iPhone in 1992
  • A Florida man is suing Apple for a whopping $10 billion and 1.5 percent of all future Apple earnings — because he claims to have come up with the idea for Apple’s breakthrough mobile device all way back in 1992.
  • Thomas S. Ross’ “electronic reading device” patent describes a “device so designed and aggregated as to have created a novel combination of media and communication tools,”
  • He claims this idea (allegedly) to have been “hijacked and exploited by Apple’s iPhones, iPods, iPads and others.”
  • The suit finally argues that the distress Ross has suffered as a result of seeing his iPhone everywhere without the proper credit being bestowed on him adds up to a “great and irreparable injury that cannot fully be compensated or measured in money.”
  • In the meantime, though, he’s happy to take $10 billion — plus the barely-significant sum of 1.5 percent of all future Apple earnings. It’s only right, isn’t it?
 
Meet the sports shooter who leaves heavy gear behind for an iPhone
 
Erfon mentioned these Sony XBA-H1 earphones!
 
Direct download: CultCast_238_-_Gruber__Gruber.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:31pm PDT

This week: everything we think we know about Apples upcoming iPhone 7!  Plus: price leaks indicate we may get an iPhone 7 “Pro”; the one feature Android phones have that we envy; and we’ll tell you what we like and don’t about the gadgets we’re reviewing—it’s an all-new Under Review.
 
This episode supported by
 
Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
  • Apple has begun removing the 13-inch non-Retina MacBook Pro from its retail store displays
  • The non-Retina MacBook Pro is the only laptop left in Apple’s lineup with an optical drive. It’s also the most affordable MacBook Pro at just $1,099, but without the slimmer form factor, Retina display, and features like Force Touch
  • The machine hasn’t seen a refresh since 2012, which means it’s not too surprising to see that Apple is no longer pushing it
 
iPhone 7 will have more tiny design changes you won’t notice
  • The iPhone 7 is set to be one of the most boring updates Apple’s ever released. The new iPhone will look just like the iPhone 6/6s
  • The Wall Street Journal  called the changes set to be introduced in the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus "subtle," while Ming Chi Kuo has said the device will not have many "attractive selling points." 
  • Longer Earpiece cutout
  • Relocated ambient light sensor
 
iPhone 7 will be boring, according to WSJ
  • Rumors that the iPhone 7 will be a snooze-worthy update have been seemingly confirmed today by The Wall Street Journal, which claims Apple plans to break from its traditional pattern of redesigning its flagship device every year.
  • This year’s iPhone will come with plenty of minor upgrades, but according to the new report, some iPhone 7 features that Apple hoped to integrate just weren’t ready for a 2016 rollout.
  • During a meeting with an Apple executive last month, a China-based engineer asked why this year’s iPhone didn’t get a major design change. “The answer, one person at the meeting recalled, was that the new technology in the pipeline will take time to implement,” reports the Journal.
  • The WSJ says Apple hoped to implement a curved screen into the iPhone 7 but the technology wasn’t ready. The company supposedly hopes to integrate big new features next year, though, for the 10th anniversary of the iPhone.
  • A10
  • Blue color
  • Dual lens camera on the 7 Plus, larger camera on the 7
  • Better water proofing
  • Better looking antenna bands
  • Lightning headphone jack/dongle
 
Get your dongle on: iPhone 7 to include Lightning adapter
  • The iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus will ship with regular 3.5mm EarPods, according to a new report from Macotakara that claims Apple will include a 3.5mm to Lightning Adapter so you’re not force to buy new headphones with your new iPhone.
  • The report also claims that by removing the headphone jack on the iPhone 7, Apple will add a row of speaker holes on the right side.
 
iPhone 7 price leak promises Pro model, 256GB of storage
  • An alleged price list for Apple’s upcoming iPhone 7 series suggests there will be a high-end “Pro” model after all. Fans could also get 256GB storage options, while 32GB of storage could become the minimum.
  • According to an iPhone 7 price list posted on Chinese micro-blogging network Weibo, there will be an iPhone 7 Pro in Apple’s lineup this fall.
Direct download: CultCast_237_-_Point_n_shoots_bro.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:31pm PDT

This week: it's our WWDC 2016 reactions!  Plus: all the WWDC announcements worth getting excited about; the best hidden OS features not mentioned on stage; more confirmation that a Macbook Pro with OLED touch bar is imminent; and a very strange iPhone 7 rumor surfaces.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
The critically acclaimed #1 New York Times Bestseller about the real Steve Jobs, is now available in paperback. BECOMING STEVE JOBS will be available June 7, 2016, for $18, wherever books are sold. For more information, visit becomingstevejobs.com.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
  • According to a display leak from Mobipicker, a new home button will become part of the iPhone’s cover glass. It should will contain a Touch ID sensor for fingerprint scanning and will still be surrounded by a ring — but it won’t be made of metal.
  • Sources speaking to Mobipicker, say the new home button will continue to offer various functions, including tap and hold for Siri, and a double-tap for multitasking.
 
Clues in macOS Sierra point to OLED touch bar for MacBook Pro
  • Source code in the first beta build of macOS Sierra hints that Apple plans to add support for an OLED touchpad, seemingly confirming the accuracy of the leaked MacBook Pro photos Cult of Mac published last month.
  • Some new API changes hidden inside the source code for the next version of macOS also reveal Touch ID is in the works as well for Apple desktops.
  • The new APIs were spotted by Mac Generation and suggest that the rumored OLED touch bar on the next-gen MacBook Pro will dynamically adjust to show system information and soft keys related to other applications.
 
Photographers rejoice! iOS 10 lets you snap RAW images
  • For the first time ever, Apple is finally bringing RAW image files to the Camera app in iOS 10 
  • iOS 10’s RAW image capture is only available via the rear camera and you can’t use image stabilization when shooting RAW, but Apple did add the ability to shoot RAW + JPEG on a single snap and bracketed shooting.
 
Siri comes to Mac and opens up to developers
  • For the first time, Siri will be available on the Mac and will be opened to third-party developers on iOS.
  • Siri will be opened up to third-party developers on iOS. Developers will be able to use Siri for a number of tasks, including:
    • Messaging — send messages with apps like iMessage and Slack.
    • Ride hailing — call for a ride on Uber or Lyft.
    • Photo Search — search for images on Web or apps like Pinterest.
    • Workouts — Siri can call up workouts.
    • Payments — Siri can send payments to friends, say, in various payment apps.
    • VOIP calling — Siri can make VOIP calls in apps like Vonage and Skype.
    • Car — works with CarPlay.
    • Siri API limited to these  types of apps.
 
Concept imagines the magic of MacBook Pro’s OLED touch bar
 
MacBook Pro concept shows how useful an OLED touchpad will be
 
Everything from WWDC 2016 worth getting excited about
Leander
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_236_-_When_the_curtains_close....mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:58pm PDT

This week: it’s our WWDC 2016 predictions! We’ll tell you what hardware and software to expect.  Plus: Apple makes huge changes to the prices you’ll pay for apps; this year’s Back to School specials are some of Apple’s best yet; and Steve Jobs... the opera?  Don’t miss more weird and wild stories from the Cult of Mac.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
The critically acclaimed #1 New York Times Bestseller about the real Steve Jobs, is now available in paperback. BECOMING STEVE JOBS will be available June 7, 2016, for $18, wherever books are sold. For more information, visit becomingstevejobs.com.
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
@erfon / @bst3r / @lkahney / david@cultofmac.com
 
Intro - Welcome to the App Store
 
Read all about it! Teen’s news app scores him a WWDC scholarship
 
5K Thunderbolt Display will be a no-show at WWDC
Buster
  • Apple will not be updating its old ass Thunderbolt display anytime soon, despite rumors that suggested the company was planning to unveil a new 5K Thunderbolt display with a built-in GPU at this year’s WWDC.
  • Apple’s WWDC 2016 keynote will focus mostly on software, according to a new report from 9to5Mac.
  • "WWDC this year will be a ‘software year’, indicating the show will be light on new hardware announcements in general.”
  • Another report from iMore confirms that the 5K monitor will be a no-show.
 
 
Apple is making huge changes to how much you’ll pay for apps
Buster
  • Starting next week Apple will roll out major changes to the App Store that will effect how, and how much you’ll pay, for your favorite apps.
  • Apple plans to open subscriptions to all apps. In the past, the iPhone-maker only allowed apps for news, cloud services, dating and streaming to offer a subscription that’s billed automatically through iTunes.
  • When developers are able to maintain a customer for more than 12 months, Apple will drop its take down to 15 percent, giving developers another small pay raise.
  • The internally-dubbed “Subscriptions 2.0” model isn’t expected to roll out until this Fall when the company also plans to unleash search ads for apps in App Store search results
 
Apple kicks off back to school promo with big savings on Beats
  • Apple has kicked off its latest back to school promotion.
  • Apple is giving away a set of Beats Solo2 headphones  ($300 with MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac Pro purchases.
  • You can also get free Beats Powerbeats2 wireless headphones worth $200 when you buy an eligible iPad or iPhone.
  • Apple’s offer runs through September 5, and you can take advantage of it when purchasing from retail stores throughout the U.S. or from the Apple Online Store.
Direct download: CultCast_235_-_2Legit2Quit.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:04pm PDT

This week: Macbook Pro spy photos reveal some juicy new features, but some old favorites go bye-bye…  Plus: Apple may finally update its ancient Thunderbolt display; why moving iPhone to a three year update cycle would suck; and stay tuned for more weird and wacky super-fan stories from the Cult of Mac.  
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer codeCultCastat checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
@erfon / @bst3r / @lkahney / david@cultofmac.com
 
Intro - Steve Jobs introduces Apple’s new gem, the G4 Cube
 
The British Fabio!
 
 
Apple may finally update its old ass Thunderbolt Display
  • It’s been over five years since Apple updated its standalone monitor
  • Thunderbolt Display stock is limited or unavailable at several Apple Stores in North America, Europe, Australia according to a new report
  • Dwindling supplies of Apple’s current Thunderbolt Display could indicate that the company plans to launch a gorgeous new monitor in the near future.
  • It appears that Thunderbolt Displays are still in ready supply in some major cities, so the changes in supply could also simply indicate that Apple is dealing with fluctuations in its inventory.
 
You better get used to waiting 3 years for big iPhone upgrades
  • According to one report, Apple is switching its big upgrades to a three-year cycle, which is why this year’s iPhone 7 will look just like its predecessors
  • This year, following last year’s iPhone 6s series, we should be getting another major refresh — but we know that’s not going to be the case. Leaks have revealed the iPhone 7 is almost identical to the iPhone 6s
  • a report from Japanese newspaper Nikkei warns we should get used to this three-year wait for big upgrades. Apple has reportedly decided to extent its cycle because of slowing market demand and due to “smartphone functions having little room left for major enhancements.”
 
Spy photos all but confirm 2016 MacBook Pro’s OLED touchpad
  • Leaked photos of what is claimed to be Apple’s next-generation MacBook Pro all but confirm it will ship with a new OLED touchpad above its keyboard.
  • The images sent to Cult of Mac also hint at four USB-C connectors.
  • Loss of SD card reader, Thunderbolt, HDMI out, and MagSafe?
  • Adopts the arrow keys of the new butterfly keyboard
  • No touch ID
Direct download: CultCast_234_-_Macbook_Pro_spy_photos.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:51pm PDT

This week: Macbook Pro about to get its biggest refresh ever!  Plus: Apple’s plans to rival Amazon’s Echo; Apple gets serious about iCar charging stations; more great stories from the Cult of Mac; the state of gaming in OS X, iOS, and tvOS; and we set aside our agendas to discuss YOUR topics in an all-new As You Wish.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Apple plans to make Amazon Echo rival by opening Siri
  • Apple is reportedly planning to make a rival to the Amazon Echo, but the in order to compete with the device’s incredible array of features and services, Apple plans to open up Siri to third-party apps.
  • According to The Information, Apple to open up Siri to apps made by others. And it is working on an Amazon Echo-like device with a speaker and microphone that people can use to turn on music, get news headlines or set a timer.
  • Opening up its Siri voice assistant to outside app developers is the more immediate step [to competing with Echo],” reports the Information. Apple is supposedly preparing to release a Siri SDK that could arrive at WWDC 2016 
 
MacBook Pro to get Touch ID in biggest ever refresh
  • Apple is set to give its MacBook Pro lineup their “most significant upgrade ever,” according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI Securities.
  • New Macs will be thinner and lighter
  • Will also include Touch ID and an OLED display touch bar to replace physical function keys on the keyboard, Employ the same metal injection molded hinges and butterfly mechanism keyboard seen on the 12-inch MacBook.
 
Apple is already working on charging stations for iCar
  • Apple appears to be preparing the ground work for its charging infrastructure, according to a new report claiming the company is scooping up engineers that specialize in electric charing stations.
  • “Apple is investigating how to charge electric cars, talking to charging station companies and hiring engineers with expertise in the area,” reports Reuters
  • Apple has hired at least four charging specialists to help it create a competitive charger, including former BMW 
 
If you’ve broken your iPhone, Parry Gripp’s music will comfort you
 
Leander’s been testing out the Eero router and talked about the Luma too
Direct download: CultCast_233_-_Mr._Meme.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:50pm PDT

This week: Apple makes a curious investment in China’s version of Uber; iPhones that charge wirelessly in your pocket; Siri is coming to a Mac near you; more weird and wacky stories from the Cult of Mac; and we tell you what we like (and what we don’t) about the gadgets we’re currently testing in an all-new Under Review.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro: Your future computer, The Knowledge Navigator
 
Apple invests $1 billion in Chinese Uber rival
  • Apple has invested $1 billion in Chinese Uber rival Didi Chuxing
  • Tim Cook says the deal “reflects our excitement about their growing business … and also our continued confidence in the long term in China’s economy.”
  • Cook told Reuters: “We are making the investment for a number of strategic reasons, including a chance to learn more about certain segments of the China market,” 
  • Jack Kent of tech analytical firm IHS Technology said partnering with Chinese companies is a common way for international companies to get into the massive Asian market.
 
  • In the last four months Apple has hired two former uBeam engineers with expertise in wireless charging and ultrasonic technology
  • The Verge did some investigating, and discovered that in fact the in the last two years Apple has hired more than a dozen staffers with expertise in wireless charging.
  • Earlier this year Bloomberg reported that Apple was hoping to add wireless charging to the new iPhone it releases in 2017.
  • According to Bloomberg's sources, Apple wants to implement a much more advanced technology that would allow you to walk around a room and have your phone charging the entire time.
  • Is the smart dock a stop gap?
 
Siri for Mac icons leak ahead of WWDC
  • Apple’s digital assistant Siri is expected to finally arrive on Macs later this year with the next OS X update
  • Cool icon in dock, plus accessible via the menu bar and Hey Siri option
 
Buster’s reviewing the Garmin Phoenix 3
 
Leander’s been listening to the Moshi Avanti on-ear headphones
 
Erfon’s lighting his house with the illumi smart bulbs
 
 
The three Apples that changed the world, featuring Jimmy Page and Fiona Apple
Direct download: CultCast_232_-_Techno-Utopian_Baloney.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:02pm PDT

This week: Apple aims to end music downloads; you can now live stream your aerial drone flights to iDevices worldwide;  staggering facts about who’s making money in the app store; creators of Siri demo an even smarter AI; the ridiculous resale value of old Apple tech; and we reveal our Lust List of the gadgets we currently coveting.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
@erfon @lkahney / “At” David Pierini
 
Intro - Introducing, iPod
 
All the maidens shall be mine!
 
  • 1903: Wright Brothers. 1907: Model T
  • Now you can stream live from your drone when you take to the skies with Periscope, Twitter’s service that lets you broadcast live video, provided you have the app on iOS and a DJI drone.
  • You’ll be able to narrate the broadcast from your iPhone, and even Sketch right on the broadcast itself to annotate your flight.
 
Apple Aiming to End iTunes Music Downloads in Two Years [Update: Apple Says 'Not True']
  • Citing sources with "close and active business relationships" with Apple, Digital Music News says Apple allegedly has an aggressive plan to "terminate" music downloads from iTunes within two years
  • their sources say, "keeping [iTunes music downloads] running forever isn't really on the table anymore." 
  • Apple rep Tom Neumayr contacted Recode and said the report that Apple would stop iTunes music downloads in two years is "not true."
  • Apple's iTunes business continues to bring in hundreds of millions of dollars each year, but it is on the decline due to the rise of streaming music services
 
94% of App Store revenue goes to just 1% of publishers
  • 94 percent of App Store revenue generated in the U.S. went to just the top 1 percent of app publishers, according to SensorTower
  • SensorTower found that around $1.34 billion of the estimated $1.43 billion in net revenue generated went to just 623 publishers.
  • That means the other 61,677 publishers had to share the remaining 6 percent of the revenue, which was approximately approximately $85.8 million. If it was divided equally, they’d have made less than $1,400 each.
 
Siri’s sequel beats the heck out of Apple’s AI assistant
 
The value of old iPods could be music to your ears
 
Direct download: CultCast_231_-_Age_of_wonder.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:16pm PDT

This week: why the iPhone 7s could have features you’ve never dreamed of"; Apple’s woes in China cause their stock to plummet; the community of fans keeping Apple’s history alive; our favorite Apple Watch faces; embarrassing stories of dates gone wrong; and Kool and the Gang steals our girlfriend!
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Submit your CultCast intro, win some CultCloth!
 
Intro - What is Newton?
 
The Light Camera is a slim cam with 16 sensors (16!)
 
Kool and the Gang will steal your girlfriend
 
Tim Cook promises iPhone features you’ve never dreamed of
  • Apple CEO appeared Monday on Mad Money in an effort to abate the company’s bleeding stock price
  • Future iPhones are going to be so amazing, you probably haven’t even thought of the features Apple is going to add, Tim Cook claimed in a recent interview.
  • Next year is the iPhone’s 10th anniversary
 
Apple stock suffers longest loss streak in 18 years
Buster
  • Apple’s meager Q2 2016 earnings report is continuing to wreak havoc on the company’s stock price, leading to the longest streak of losses since 1998.
 
Apple could get shut out of China
  • China has already become the second largest market for Apple in terms of sales, but the iPhone-maker could find itself banned from the country just like Facebook due to its privacy strategy that has already come under fire from government regulators.
  • iTunes and Apple Music launched in China 6 months ago, but the government decided to force Apple to shutdown the iBook Store and iTunes Movies last week after the government changed its mind.
 
Apple Forced to Share 'iPhone' Trademark in China With Leather Accessory Maker
  • Apple no longer has the exclusive rights to the "iPhone" trademark in China after the Beijing Municipal High People’s Court ruled in favor of leather goods manufacturer Xintong Tiandi Technology, who sells an “iPhone Case"
  • Apple filed for a trademark of the iPhone name in China back in 2002, specifically centering around computer software and hardware, but Xintong Tiandi didn't do the same for leather goods until 2007
  • Apple took them to Chinese court, but lost.
 
Mega-investor Carl Icahn gives up on AAPL
  • Apple’s biggest cheerleader on Wall Street, Carl Icahn, is getting rid of all of his AAPL shares after the iPhone-maker reported its first year-over-year decline in revenues for the first time in 13 years.
  • Investors’ fears of troubles in China aren’t unfounded. Growth in greater China dropped 26% last quarter. The country also recenty banned iTunes Movies and the iBookstore
 
Direct download: CultCast_230_-_The_MacGyver_Factor.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:13am PDT

This week: Apples 13-year record revenue streak is broken;  our best picture yet of iPhone 7 features; rumors point to a faster, untethered Apple Watch 2; Apple has a huge increase in R&D spending, but where’s the money going?  And stick around for more stories from the Cult of Mac.  This week: a 15-year-old mows lawns, then uses the money to build one of the world’s best Apple collections.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Submit your CultCast intro, win some CultCloth!
 
Intro - Hamilton Morris loves his iPod 
 
8 optimistic takeaways from Apple’s slumptastic earnings call
  • R&D spending at Apple increased by $1.1 billion dollars compared to the same six month period last year, according to a new SEC filing
  • The tech giant is fighting itself here, being forced to compare this year’s numbers to the killer iPhone 6 sales that drove 2015’s overwhelming revenue
  • Apple’s tablets are doing fine, really, selling 10.3 million units this quarter. But in general, tablets are stinking up the place.
  • Apple surprised by SE demand and can’t keep up
 
Apple Watch made $1.5 billion more than Rolex last year
  • The Apple Watch, which celebrated its first birthday this week, is just such a product. How much of an impact did the Apple Watch make in its debut year? Enough to bring in $1.5 billion more than Rolex did in 2015.
  • While Apple has yet to make its Watch sales public knowledge, according to a recent Wall Street Journal article, the debut Apple wearable likely brought in around $6 billion in its first year. That’s considerably more than Rolex’s $4.5 billion in total revenue for the equivalent time frame.
  • Apple Watch also outsold the iPhone in both products’ respective first years by a margin of 2-to-1.
 
Apple Watch 2 Rumored to Include Cellular Connectivity Amid Push for iPhone Independency
  • The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple is working on including cellular network connectivity and a faster processor in the so-called Apple Watch 2.
  • LTE would undoubtedly require an additional data plan, on top of one they might already have for both the iPhone and iPad, benefits like using GPS, making phone calls, and streaming Apple Music without an iPhone nearby could outweigh the cons for some users. 
 
iPhone 7 may make bigger splash than expected
  • Apple will supposedly make its next iPhone both waterproof and dustproof
  • Digitimes claims the device will also have a new touch-sensitive home button that sits flush with the rest of the screen
  • Other features Apple is rumored to be adding include a new Smart Connecter, dual lens camera, bigger battery, wireless charging, no headphone jack, and a cleaner rear shell design with minimal antenna lines.
  • Design will be pretty much the same as the 6 and 6s.
 
Direct download: CultCast_229_-_Alex_s_Apple_Orchard.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:05pm PDT

This week: why the new iPad Pro screen is “practically perfect”; stories from the "Cult of Mac"; our most anticipated WWDC 2016 announcements; a look at Apple’s newly updated MacBooks; Apple’s secret plan to create hit TV shows; and have you ever wondered how rich you’d be if you invested in Apple’s IPO instead of buying their computers?  We break down the numbers.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
TunnelBear, the simple privacy app that makes it easy to browse privately and enjoy a more open internet. Visit GetTunnelBear.com to get your free TunnelBear today.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
 
Apple unleashes improved MacBooks, now in rose gold
 
Apple is secretly planning to take over Hollywood 
 
What a $1,000 investment in Apple in 1996 looks like today
 
What are you most excited to see Apple unveil at WWDC 2016?
 
Greg Packer, professional Apple line squatter
Direct download: CultCast_228_-_Little_red_corvette_y_aaaall.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:17am PDT

This week: how Steve Jobs and the industrial design team saved Apple.  Plus: the reason Jony Ive now has a chauffeur; one year with the Apple Watch; and we reveal the strange cultural phenomenon we’ve been secretly loving in an all-new What We’re Into.
 
Join our new Reddit community to discuss current episodes and submit and vote on story topics for future episodes! http://reddit.com/r/TheCultCast
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - Steve Jobs intros the iMac DV
 
Is this the Apple Car????
 
Why the departure of Apple designer Daniel Coster matters
 
A year after its launch, it’s now clear that pretty much no one needs an Apple Watch
 
Apple Watch shipments predicted to fall 25 percent this year
 
Direct download: CultCast_227_-_Viking_steel.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:53pm PDT

This week: we look into the past at some of the most pivotal moments in Apple’s 40-year history.  Plus: why the iPhone 7 Plus may be your only choice for dual cameras; what it’s like downsizing from the iPhone 6s to the SE; and we pitch our favorite new tech and vote on which is best in an all-new Faves N Raves!
 
Join our new Reddit community to discuss current episodes and submit and vote on story topics for future episodes! http://reddit.com/r/TheCultCast
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Apple might finally let you delete unwanted iOS apps
 
Dual Camera Said to Be Exclusive to 5.5-Inch iPhone 7
 
iPhone SE proves size doesn’t matter [Reviews]
 
40 moments that have defined Apple over 40 years
 
Our Fave N Rave Picks
Erfon
 
Leander
 
Buster
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_226_-_4_Inches_of_Magic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:56pm PDT

CultCast #225 - Burrito Beard
 
This week: rumors point to an iPhone 7s with drastic redesign, facial recognition, and the return to a glass front and back.  Plus: folks around the world line up for the Tesla  Model 3; Apple’s making a show about apps hosted by megastar Willie AM; why the new iPad Pro is not a notebook replacement for the masses; in a bizarre plot twist, Apple seeks FBI’s iPhone unlocking secrets; and we’ll tell you why Cadbury Eggs are the worst thing ever on an all-new Get To Know Ur Cultist.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro: Exotic Destinations
 
Review Roundup: 9.7 iPad Pro is a 'Powerful' Laptop Replacement for Casual Users
 
 
FBI cracks San Bernardino iPhone without Apple’s help
 
Apple wants the FBI to reveal how it hacked the San Bernardino killer's iPhone
 
Direct download: CultCast_225_-_Burrito_Beard.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:34pm PDT

This week:  Apples new iPhone SE in an insane value; the significant differences between the big and small iPad Pros; more evidence affirms major Macbook Pro redesigns in June;  future keynotes need more Yak; and the cool features in the new tvOS 9.2 update.
 
Join our new Reddit community to discuss current episodes and submit and vote on story topics for future episodes! http://reddit.com/r/TheCultCast
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro: Macs do more and cost less!
 
New ultra-thin MacBooks rumored to arrive in June
 
What Apple product launches say about Tim Cook’s leadership
 
Apple Special Event in 90 Seconds
 
Direct download: CultCast_224_-_No_more_dongles.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:59pm PDT

This week:  will we see new Macs?  Will there a One More Thing??  These are our March 21st Apple event predictions and expectations…  Plus: how Instagram is about to be ruined; reports of an Apple Car price and ship date surface; why pirates are excited for the AyeCar; and some new iPhone 7 leaks echo familiar rumors...
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - Maybe people won’t get along in the future, but our Macs will
 
 
Apple Car may ship in 2021, with a price tag of $75,000
 
iPhone 7’s redesigned antenna band revealed in leaked photo
 
This could be our first look at the iPhone 7
 
Everything Apple will announce at its March 21 keynote
Direct download: CultCast_223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:58pm PDT

This week: it’s official, Apple is gonna “loop us in” at their March 21 press event.  Join us as we decode the mysterious event invitation.  Plus:  some new leaks give us glimpses at the iPhone SE and iPhone 7 designs; why Apple’s new Spaceship campus is clearly home to a future post-apocalyptic battle colosseum; and we share the stuff we’re embarrassed to secretly love in an all-new Get To Know Ur Cultist.
 
Join our new Reddit community to discuss current episodes and submit and vote on story topics for future episodes! http://reddit.com/r/TheCultCast
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Apple’s March 21 event promises to ‘Loop you in’
 
iPhone 7 case hints at stereo speakers, no headphone jack
 
Upcoming iPhone SE may look just like an iPhone 5s
 
Close up with Apple’s new spaceship campus Theatre
 
Intro: Where are all the robots?
 
Erfon never chokes back the tears watching Meet Joe Black
 
Buster wants to hand out the Bachelor rose
 
This scene from Scrooged made Leander WEEP!
 
You need to try these.  Alone.  In your car.
Direct download: CultCast_222_-_Secret_man-tears.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:34pm PDT

This week: rumors point to an insanely thin iPhone 7, but is that what we want?  Plus: our list of top, most-wanted iPhone 7 features; why only some of us are excited for iPhone SE; why the new iPad could have a killer new camera; and if want to hear Leander complain about Mariah Carey and Maroon 5, stay tuned for Leander Loves Pop!
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - They finally figured out a way to make PCs easy to use!
 
Is this Drake??
 
Whitney Houston was a national treasure!
 
Rosanne Bar… well
 
This is basically Buster Heine’s theme song
 
Check out Rob Roy for some great “kilt action"
 
Apple event for iPhone SE, new iPad to take place March 21
 
Direct download: CultCast_221_-_Great_kilt_action.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:36pm PDT

This week: with the FBI vs. Apple battle heating up, some lawyers say Tim Cook could land in jail; why Siri in the next version of OS X may point to redesigned MacBooks;  and, just how much would you pay for a box of Steve Job’s old crap?  Plus we pitch you our favorite tech and apps in an all-new Faves 'N Raves!
 
This episode supported by
 
Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s intro: you need a family computer
 
Steve Jobs’s smelly old sandals just sold at auction
 
Siri-ously? Apple’s virtual assistant finally coming to Mac
 
 
From Fines To Jail Time: How Apple Could Be Punished For Defying FBI
 
Congressional ‘Crypto Commission’ may tackle Apple vs FBI debate - buster
 
Apple believes Congress should decide iPhone privacy case
 
Direct download: CultCast_220_-_Before_and_after.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:51pm PDT

This week: major Macbook Pro and Air redesigns may be coming in June; the magic of the MagSafe adapter; the best Mac for college; Apple vs. the FBI; Apple explains "Error 53” and offers up a fix; and stay tuned for our favorite shows and apps in an all new What We’re Into!
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
A Mac is all you need!
 
Check the swagger level in listener Josh Holme's twitter profile!
 
Snowden says Apple security case is most important issue in a decade
 
How Apple could hack terrorist’s iPhone for FBI (if it wanted to)
Direct download: CultCast_219_-_Redesigned_Macbook_Pros_in_June_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:39pm PDT

This week: neighbors complain of peculiar “motor noises" emanating from Apple’s secret auto labs; the strange error that’s bricking iPhones everywhere (and how to avoid it); and, has Apple lost their way?  Some pundits are arguing Cupertino needs to shape up and start shipping better products.  We discuss!
 
This episode supported by
 
Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” at checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - Alan Greenspan recommends the Apple IIc
 
‘Motor noises’ complaint at Apple’s auto campus fuels speculation
 
Direct download: CultCast_218_-_The_Beak_made_im_do_it.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:16pm PDT

This week: new hardware, incoming! We’ll tell you our expectations of Apple’s rumored March 2016 event.  Plus, why the next iPad Air could be the best one yet; iPhone 7 may have far fewer features than expected; and, is Apple making a move into virtual reality?
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
This Coldplay music video makes Leander angry!
 
The amazing Word Lens app is now Google Translate
 
Apple plans March 15th event for iPad Air 3 and iPhone 5se unveiling
 
Schematic reveals iPad Air 3 will be slightly thicker than iPad Air 2
 
Apple Watch may get an ‘S’ upgrade in March
 
iPhone 7 design may ditch antenna bands and camera bump
 
Apple is spending lots of time at Stanford’s VR lab
Direct download: CultCast_217_-_Super_Brawl.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:05pm PDT

This week:  a souped-up iPad Air 3 coming in March; iPhone 5se is a terrible name for a 4-inch iPhone; the iPhone 7 Plus PLUS is for those who demand only the best mobile camera; and why Apple is pumping the brakes on their electric car.
 
This episode supported by
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s intro - Give your kids the universe!
 
The 5 biggest takeaways from Apple’s biggest quarter ever
 
Apple might unveil Pencil-ready iPad Air 3 in March
 
 
Apple may release special iPhone 7 Plus aimed at pro photographers
 
Direct download: CultCast_216_-_iPhone_7_Plus..._PLUS_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:39pm PDT

This week: our legs are blown off by hover boards; our favorite ways to manage iOS photos; the new Music Memo and Garageband apps get our enthusiastic thumbs up; Bob Mansfeld is back to massage us; and we remember the hard, cruel, miserable realities of life before iPhone.
 
This episode supported by
 
Squarespace! Build a beautiful, responsive website quickly at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a  thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
I rode a hoverboard around my office for a week, and here's what I learned
 
Apple introduces new Music Memos app, updates GarageBand
 
Apple’s new Music Memos app makes songwriting chimp-simple
 
$50 price bump for Trump’s U.S. iPhones is just as realistic as his hair
Direct download: CultCast_215_-_Hover_Board_Haters.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:55pm PDT

This week: some useful new features are coming to iOS 9.3; the future of driving technology; the coolest, weirdest, and worst technology of CES 2016; Elon Musk says it’s “obvious” Apple is working on an iCar; and we’ll tell you what we love (and don’t) about the gadgets we’re currently testing—it’s an all-new Under Review.
 
This episode supported by
 
Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” as checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Tesla’s Elon Musk calls Apple Car an ‘open secret’
 
Everything new (and exciting!) coming in iOS 9.3
 
All the cosplay girls are going to want this fake electronic tail
 
Buster is scooting around on his new Priority Bike
 
Leander wants this CarPlay stereo
 
This steel Apple Watch band from Juuk is just as suave and 1/5 the price of Apple's
 
Erfon is living in the future with these home kit enabled Philips Hue lights
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_214_-_Tails_ONLY.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:20pm PDT

This week on The CultCast: robot bartenders, smart coffee mugs, and the coolest of gadgets from CES 2016.  Plus, don’t miss our picks for the absolutely, positively, you-should-install-them-today, most essential Mac and iOS apps.
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
On the show this week
 
Will Ferrel is a porn actor (and sells iPods) 
 
This supersized drone will fly you to work (or anywhere)
 
Booze bots, badass routers, high-flyin’ drones and more at CES
 
CES Day 3: Hoverboards, doggie ‘brain puzzles’ and beer
 
Chevy unveils its pure-electric Bolt
 
The Ember mug keeps your drink at the perfect temperature
 
Your movements charge Ampy so Ampy can charge your iPhone
 
Pico let’s you make craft beer at home
 
Sombabar is your home's app-controller robotic bartender
 
 
Deliveries Dashboard Widget
 
Erfon won’t live in a world without iStat Menus
 
SuperDuper! back and recovery tool
 
Byword 2 markdown tool
 
Spark is Adam’s email client of choice
Direct download: CultCast_213_-_Best_Gadgets_of_CES_2016.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:38pm PDT

This week:  why 2015 was one of Apple's best (and worst!) years ever.  Plus:  everything Apple needs to improve in 2016; future tech that could change the world; and stick around for our deep-dive into The Force Awakens, our in-depth review of the magic, delight, and heartbreak of J.J. Abrams' new Star Wars universe.
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Why 2015 was Apple’s most important year since original iPhone’s unveiling
 
What would you like to see Apple improve in 2016? (discussion)
 
What technology could change the world around us in the next 5 years? (discussion)
 
Direct download: CultCast_212_-__Full_Dolphin_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:34pm PDT

This week: Apple let’s us all in to their super secret design lab, and what we find is amazing; the best of the holiday iOS App Store deals; and we pick our favorite movies of 2015!
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Thanks to Audible for supporting this episode. Audible, the home of over 150,000 audio books from practically every genre in existence.  Grab Leander's book, Jony Ive: The Genius Behind Apple's Greatest Products, for FREE with a 30-day Audible trial.  The book is yours to keep even if you decide not to keep your Audible subscription.  Get started now at audiblepodcast.com/cultcast
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
A very rare look into the Apple Design Lab
 
The Beatles Are Coming to Apple Music on Christmas Eve
 
God help us, Kim Kardashian now has her own emoji
 
App Store Holiday Sales: Final Fantasy VII, Lara Croft GO, Notability and More
DuckTales: Remastered ($9.99 → 99¢) 
Bastion ($4.99 → 99¢) 
Deliveries ($4.99 → $2.99) 
Leo's Fortune ($4.99 → 99¢) 
 
Direct download: CultCast_211_-_Kanye_Cobra.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:24pm PDT

This week: the force is looking very strong with the new Star Wars movie; live football may be coming to the Apple TV; the tvOS app store hits a major milestone; why you shouldn't expect 3D touch in the next iPad Air; and with 2016 on the horizon, we’ll review our favorite games, gadgets, and books of 2015.  Hit play, you must!
 
This episode supported by
 
Freshbooks — the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  It also makes tax time a cinch. Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section.
 
Start protecting your home with Canary today for just $199. Go to meetcanary.com to see it in action and use the promo code “cultcast" to get free overnight shipping.
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - You too can wookie!
 
Star Wars is back: The Force Awakens is as awesome as you hoped it would be
 
tvOS App Store After One Month: 2,624 Apps in Total, Entertainment Apps Most Popular With Consumers
 
Apple expected to bid on Thursday Night Football streaming deal - buster
 
Apple Working on Scalable 3D Touch Technology for Future iPads and iPhones
 
Our favorite stuff from 2015
 
Buster - Lilith’s Brood
 
Erfon - Super Mario Maker
 
Leander - Amazon Echo
 
Direct download: CultCast_210_-_The_hot_dog_you_will_like.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:47pm PDT

This week: we take a look at Apple’s zany new Smart Battery Case; we cover the new and notable in the newest WatchOS, tvOS, and iOS updates; discuss our favorite strategies for managing overloaded inboxes; and stick around till the end for our favorite iOS apps and games of 2015!
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Start protecting your home with Canary today for just $199. Go to meetcanary.com to see it in action and use the promo code “cultcast" to get free overnight shipping.
 
Casper — Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Internet questions Jony Ive’s sanity with new iPhone battery case - buster
 
 
Eddy Cue promises new iOS remote app for Apple TV - buster
Direct download: CultCast_209_-_The_Negotiator.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:43pm PDT

This week: though Apple spends far less on research and development than the competition, they out innovate them all.  How?  Hit play to catch the discussion.  Plus: iPhone 7 may ditch the beloved headphone jack; Amazon Video is coming to Apple TV; the holiday accessory that could be eroding your WiFi signal;  and with the year drawing to a close, we choose we our favorite Apple device of 2015!
 
This episode supported by
 
Lynda is like the Apple Music of online education, with over 3000 expert-taught video courses you can stream straight to computer or mobile device. Learn how to use Logic’s new super powerful Alchemy synth, ordevelop Mac apps for OS X—learn all you want for free for 10 days at lynda.com/cultcast.
 
Start protecting your home with Canary today for just $199. Go to meetcanary.com to see it in action and use the promo code “cultcast" to get free overnight shipping.
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Intro - HyperCard Mania!
 
Amazon is bringing Instant Video app to Apple TV
 
Apple would be stupid to drop the iPhone headphone jack - evan
 
 
Target sold one iPad per second on Thanksgiving 
 
Apple’s R&D spending proves innovation isn’t all about money
 
Apple offers kids free ‘Hour of Code’ programming classes
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_208_-_The_Tickler.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:57pm PDT

This week: why Apple might just need to bring OS X to the iPad; the Apple Pencil makes anyone a digital artist; one Apple TV pro tip you absolutely need to know; fun facts about Apple’s new Spaceship campus; and finally… Gobble Gobble yaaaa’aaall!  We’re invited to a magical Thanksgiving feast at Tim Cook’s house in another episode of Get To Know Your Cultist.
 
This episode supported by
 
Start protecting your home with Canary today for just $199. Go to meetcanary.com to see it in action and use the promo code “cultcast" to get free overnight shipping.
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
Freshbooks — the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Apple’s spaceship campus is big enough to hold Disneyland
 
Direct download: CultCast_207_-_Kiss_The_Cook.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:21pm PDT

This week: get your mace and taser ready for Black Friday! We share some of the best deals on MacBooks, iPhones, Playstation 4s, Xbox One’s, Wii U’s and more.    Plus: why your Mac store apps could be corrupted (and what to do about it); RDIO bites the dust; and the iPad Mini 4 proves far better than we originally thought.
 
This episode supported by
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
Start protecting your home with Canary today for just $199. Go to meetcanary.com to see it in action and use the promo code “cultcast" to get free overnight shipping.
 
Casper — Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
This week’s intro
 
JNCO’s making a comeback!
 
 
Rdio is filing for bankruptcy, Pandora will buy ‘key assets’ for $75M
 
Find the hottest Black Friday deals right here
 
Some of our favorite deals:
 
Playstation 4 (act quick!) for $299 shipped
 
Apple Watch with $100 Target Gift Card for $349 at Target
 
Xbox One 500GB Gears of War Bundle, Fallout 4Extra Controller for $300 at Dell Home (available 3pm PST 11/16)
 
iPhone 6S or iPhone 6S Plus with a $250 Target Gift Card for $0 down at Target
 
 
B&H's holiday sale slashes 2015 MacBook Pros by $200-$300 , 12" MacBooks by $170-$200, 13" MacBook Airs by $100-$450, iPad mini 4 by $30
Direct download: CultCast_206_-_Black_November.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:19pm PDT

This week:  can the new iPad Pro really replace your Mac?  Apple seems to think so, but we’ve got a Pro in-hand and we’re not so sure.  Plus: Apple may soon offer us all a simple way to pay each other; and stick around for another classic El Kahney rant—zombie edition—it's an all new Stuff We’re Into!
 
Thanks to our sponsors keep us fed!
 
Start protecting your home with Canary today for just $199. Go to meetcanary.com to see it in action and use the promo code “cultcast" to get free overnight shipping.
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so Softlayer provides cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
This week’s intro
 
First impressions with the big and beautiful iPad Pro - leander
 
Jony Ive interview: The story of the Apple Pencil
Direct download: CultCast_205_-_Beautiful_Manscapes.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:42pm PDT

This week: "home buttonless" iPhone 7s; the new Apple TV remote is unnervingly easy to break; the UK wants your Apple devices to be less secure; and we pitch our favorite new Apple TV apps!
 
This episode supported by
 
Lynda is like the Apple Music of online education, with over 3000 expert-taught video courses you can stream straight to computer or mobile device. Learn how to use Logic’s new super powerful Alchemy synth, ordevelop Mac apps for OS X—learn all you want for free for 10 days at lynda.com/cultcast.
 
Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so Softlayer provides cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
Start protecting your home with Canary today for just $199. Go to meetcanary.com to see it in action and use the promo code “cultcast" to get free overnight shipping.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s links
 
Can you fall in love with a computer?
 
Lumina City ($5)
 
Operator (free!)
 
Plex for Apple TV (free!)
 
Leander likes The Returned show on Netflix 
 
Don’t drop your new Apple TV remote!
 
4-inch iPhone 6s is coming soon, says top Apple analyst
 
Companies such as Apple, Google and others will no longer be able to offer encryption so advanced that even they cannot decipher it when asked to under the Investigatory Powers Bill
Direct download: CultCast_204_-_Private_Eyes_Are_Watching_You.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:02pm PDT

This week: Apple just had their best year ever—we’ll put it in perspective.  Plus: Nintendo’s first iOS game confuses us; the new Apple TV isn’t quite the revolution Apple promised; and stick around for a spooky new Get to Know Ur Cultist… if you DARE.
 
This episode supported by
 
Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so Softlayer provides cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
Backblaze online backup is: $5 a month. Mac Native. Unlmited. Unthrottled. Uncomplicated. And setup takes a minute.  Try it free for two weeks at backblaze.com/cultcast
 
Build a beautiful, responsive website quick at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s links
 
Our ghoulish intro
 
This Marty McFly costume rules them all
 
Heeee can show yooou the wooorrrlld
 
The 7 biggest takeaways from Apple’s Q4 earnings call
 
Apple Stores to Start Selling Apple TV 4 on Friday
Direct download: CultCast_203_-_Children_of_the_Candycorn.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:41pm PDT

This week: we’ll tell you our hands-on first impressions of the new Apple TV, and it’s not all sugar and spice.  Plus: the new and notable in OS X 10.11.1 and iOS 9.1.  And stick around till the end for an all new Get To Know Your Cultist, #FutureDay edition, because your life might. Just. DEPEND on it...
 
Thanks to Squarespace for supporting this episode.  Start building your website today at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great theme music you hear in today's show.
 
This Marty McFly costume rules them all
 
Apple TV available for pre-order and shipping next week
 
YouTube’s new streaming service charges iOS users an Apple tax
 
OS X 10.11.1 update brings new emoji, Microsoft Office fixes and more
 
Direct download: CultCast_202_-_OUTATIME.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:28pm PDT

This week:  the pros and cons of Apple’s new 4K and 5K iMacs.  Plus: the new Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse 2, and Magic Trackpad 2—we’ve got our grubby hands on Apple’s new peripherals and we’re ready to share what we like (and what we don’t).
 
And just when you thought we were wrapping it up, we say hale na', let’s talk about apps!  We’ll pitch you some our current favorites.
 
And stay tuned for CultCast 2nd Hour with guest Blake J. Harris, author of Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle that Defined a Generation, to be regaled with the story of the 90s video game war that pitted newcomer, Sega of America, against Nintendo, an unstoppable force and maker Mario Brothers, Duck Hunt, and the beloved Nintendo Entertainment System. 2nd Hour starts at 1:08:05!
 
This episode supported by
 
Soft layer — Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
Casper — Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and get $50 towards any mattress at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
Freshbooks — the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s links
 
Console Wars
 
Blake “J.” Harris
 
Apple releases ‘stunning’ new 4K and 5K iMacs
Direct download: CultCast_201_-_Yaba_daba_dooooo.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:03pm PDT

This week: we're celebrating CultCast 200, yaaa’aaaaall!  And just in time for the party—it’s the iPhone 6s scandal we all knew would someday come... #CHIPGATE. We’ll tell why the internet is nerd-raging over this newest iPhone scandal, and why it might just be diminishing your iPhone 6s' battery life.  Plus: the new Jobs movie is generating Oscar buzz.  Seriously!  And since he’s seen it—twice—Alex E Heath is here to give us his review. And stay tuned till the end for our favorite memories of CultCast’s past.  It’s CultCast 200!!!!
 
Join us for our CultCast 200 live hangout and AMA!  Fun starts Friday, October 9th, 12pm PST at live.thecultcast.com
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
Apple denies Chipgate means iPhone 6s battery woes
Direct download: CultCast_200.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:26pm PDT

This week:  we’ve spent seven full days with iPhone 6s and we’re ready to report what we love and what we don’t.  Plus: El Capitan just made your Mac a lot better!  We’ll cover the cool tricks your Mac just learned.  And stay tuned for our dive into the world of fake Apple Watch bands… how does  $9 for an Apple Watch Sport band sound? How about $28 for a Leather Loop?  Sure, the fakes are 1/5 the price of genuine Apple bands, but are they any good?  We’ve been testing two fakes to find out, and the results might surprise you.
 
Our thanks to Lynda for supporting this episode.  Lynda is like the Apple Music of online education, with over 3000 expert-taught video courses you can stream straight to computer or mobile device. Learn how to use Logic’s new super powerful Alchemy synth, ordevelop Mac apps for OS X—learn all you want for free for 10 days at lynda.com/cultcast.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s links
 
Erfon’s $27 Leather Loops
 
And his $10 Silicone Sport band
 
13 awesome tricks your Mac just learned with El Capitan
 
The magic that makes iPhone 6s so water-resistant
Direct download: CultCast_199_-_So_Much_Drivel.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:32pm PDT

This week: the embargoes have lifted and the iPhone 6s reviews are in—we’ll tell you what people love—and don’t—about Apple's newest iPhone.  Plus: Apple car coming in 2019; why we love the new watchOS 2 update; and, with  our three month Apple Music trial running out, we ponder—is the service worth paying for?  
 
Our thanks to Lynda for supporting this episode.  Lynda is like the Apple Music of online education, with over 3000 expert-taught video courses you can stream straight to computer or mobile device. Learn how to use Logic’s new super powerful Alchemy synth, or develop Mac apps for OS X—learn all you want for free for 10 days at lynda.com/cultcast.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s links
 
You won’t be able to buy an iPhone 6s on launch day in these 5 states - buster
 
Apple car project accelerates with possible 2019 ship date - buster
 
A savvy Apple fan has sent a robot to queue for her iPhone 6s
Direct download: CultCast_198_-_HeftGate.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:08pm PDT

This week:  we review the new and notable features of iOS 9, and some lesser-known features you should definitely be using.  Plus: why you probably should’ve gotten the 128GB iPhone; a legit way to save 20% off your next Apple purchase; and what we love and don’t about iCloud storage.
 
And stay tuned for an all-new CultCast 2nd Hour.  This time:  we all love the sweeping musical scores that define our favorite movies and videos games, but have you ever wondered who creates them?  Composer Gareth Coker,  creator of the Ori and the Blind Forest score, joins us to talk about the process of creating a cinematic score from scratch,  how music and technology are more intertwined than ever, and what it’s like to work as a modern day video game and movie composer.  2nd Hour starts at the 1:07:20 mark.
 
Our thanks to FreshBooks for supporting this episode.  Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
And Squarespace.Start building your website today at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for much of the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s links
 
 
17 secret iOS 9 tricks everyone should know
 
Critical bug delays watchOS 2 release
Direct download: CultCast_197.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:49pm PDT

This week:  our reactions to and impressions of all the gadgets unleashed upon us at Apples media event extravaganza!  Plus: why this event was one for the history books; a look into Apples efforts to architect the 6S“3D Touch; why the Apple Pencil is NOT a stylus; and so.  much.  MORE...
 
Thanks to Squarespace for supporting this episode.  Start building your website today at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a big thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
On the show this week
 
This week’s links
 
Steve Jobs on the stylus
 
Apple doesn’t need glitz and glamor when it’s got the goods
Direct download: CultCast_196_-_Its_not_a_stylus.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:47pm PDT

This week: here comes iPhone 6S, iPad Pro, and a drastically new Apple TV!  We’ll tell you what to expect from Apple’s Sept. 9th event, because this event is fixing to be a doozie.
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors. Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On the show this week
@erfon / @bst3r
 
This weeks links
 
Apple TV streaming service could cost more than $40
 
Apple wants to take on Netflix with its own original programming
 
Spoiler alert: All the juicy details on iPhone 6s
 
iPhone 6s will be Apple’s best selfie machine ever
Direct download: CultCast_195_-_Leak-tacular.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:45pm PDT

This week: new Apple products coming September 9th; our iPhone 6S expectations; the incredible power of Youtube; Instagram finally says yes to portrait and landscape photos; Youtube Gaming vs. Twitch; Logic Pro X update includes a powerful new music app; and we rewrite movie history in a new Get To Know Your Cultist!
 
Our thanks to Automatic for supporting this episode.  Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off your new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cult.
 
And Squarespace.  Start building your website today at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
This week’s Intro
 
Hang out with Buster as he liveblog's Apple’s Sept. 9th event
 
The ladies cannot resist Magnum P.I.
 
Instagram won’t force you to be square anymore
 
Apple confirmed to host event at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
 
You just missed your chance to buy cheap Apple stock - buster
 
Apple brings award-winning synth back from the dead
 
iOS 9 code appears to confirm Force Touch for iPhone 6s - buster

 

Direct download: CultCast_194.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:47pm PDT

This week: why we’re convinced we’ll see an iPad Pro come fall, and what we expect from Apple’s giant shield tablet of power.  Plus: the iPhone 6S back gets a bend test, and the results are surprising; and Apple leases a secret facility to test their electric car….
 
This episode supported by
 
Automatic — Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off your new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cult.
 
Soft layer — Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
Casper — Casper’s American-made mattresses have just the right amount of memory foam and latex, and people everywhere love them.  Learn why and save $50 off your order at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
This week’s links
 
Intro - Macintosh: The computer for the rest of us
 
Apple’s electric car is real, and it’s almost ready for testing
 
New iPhone 6s bend test reveals super-strong aluminum shell
 
Pink iPhone 6s revealed in new leaked images
 
iPad Pro to pack Force Touch, plenty of pixels, optional stylus
 
Why MacBook screens must be angled at 76 degrees in Apple Stores

 

Direct download: CultCast_193_-_Bigger_Is_Better.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:18pm PDT

This week: ever wonder what it’s like to have companies pay you to travel the world snapping their Instagram photos? Professional Instagram’er Cory Staudacher is back to share his workflows, favorite iOS photo apps—and you won’t believe how much some companies will pay to make them look cool.  Plus: neat new features coming to iOS 9; Apple quietly beefs up the iPhone 6S to prevent another bendgate; and don’t miss our list of our new favorite apps.
 
Our thanks to Automatic for supporting this episode.  Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off your new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cult.
 
And Squarespace.  Start building your website today at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
And Softlayer.  Your business, applications, and compute workloads are different from everyone else's, so you deserve cloud resources that meet your unique needs.  Get $500 of cloud infrastructure by visiting softlayer.com/Podcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Your iPhone is about to get an awesome built-in flight tracker
 
What it’s like to be a professional Instagrammer

 

 
Apple is going to fix the most annoying thing about using Wi-Fi on the iPhone
 
Here’s proof bendgate won’t be back with iPhone 6s
 
Erfon
 
Buster
 
Cory
 
Alex
 
Other honerable mentions
Direct download: CultCast_192_-_Bendgate_Confirmed.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:36pm PDT

This week: looks like the radically improved Apple TV we’ve be waiting for lands in September—we’ll tell you what to expect.  Plus: Apple is not going to be your next wireless carrier; more Beats Radio stations are in the works; and don’t miss our picks of the "best of the worst" Apple accessories.
 
And stick around for our chat with Daniel Rubino from Window’s Central (seriously!),  because he’s going to educate us on why he loves the new Windows 10, what it’s coolest features are, and why he’s made the questionable decision to be a PC man.  We’re going to try our best not to argue.
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and are far less expensive than the drugstore razors.  Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
Aaaaand Lynda.  Lynda is like the Spotify of online education, with over 3000 expert-taught video courses you can stream straight to computer or mobile device. Learn to mix and master audio in pro tools, or develop Mac apps for OS X—learn all you want for free for 10 days at lynda.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week's links
 
Intro: This dude REALLY hates the Apple Watch
 
Radically improved Apple TV will launch in September

 

Direct download: CultCast_191_-_Mullet_Time.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:43pm PDT

This week: why we might be in for big iPad upgrades this year; our expectations for the iPhone 6C; the one feature we hope iPhone 6S will get (but probably won’t); Woz is worried about Skynet again; and… is Apple building machine for time travel?  You’ll have to press play to find out...
 
Check out our sexy sponsors
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
HipChat's team communication app helps all teams work together more effectively, and gets you the information you need faster than email. Get premium features like unlimited file storage and unlimited message history FREE for 90 days when you sign up at Hipchat.com/cultofmac
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a big thanks for all the music you hear in today's show. 
 
This weeks links
 
Intro
 
Behinds the scenes footage of Buster and Erfon preparing for CultCast
 
Breakthrough could finally bring wireless charging to iPhone
 
Woz and other big thinkers call for ban on AI weapons - erfon
 
C you never! Apple scraps plans for 4-inch iPhone 6c - buster
 
This year’s iPad mini upgrade won’t suck
Direct download: CultCast_190_-_London_Handshake.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:15pm PDT

This week: some pundits are fed up with Apple music, but you know what?  We’re not.  Plus: Apple’s Back To School promotion is finally unveiled; Apple Watch topples expectations, gets insane satisfaction rating; iOS devices cross a major threshold; plus we answer your questions on an all-new #CultCastQnA!
 
Show our sponsors some sweet McLovin’
 
HipChat's team communication app helps all teams work together more effectively, and gets you the information you need faster than email. Get premium features like unlimited file storage and unlimited message history FREE for 90 days when you sign up at Hipchat.com/cultofmac
 
Lynda is like the Spotify of online education, with over 3000 expert-taught video courses you can stream straight to computer or mobile device. Learn to mix and master audio in Pro Tools, or develop Mac apps for OS X—learn all you want for free for 10 days at lynda.com/cultcast.
 
This week’s links
 
Intro: Classic Steve Ballmer on iPhone
 
Apple’s ‘Back to School’ promo will give Mac buyers free Beats headphones
 
What We’re Into Picks
 
Buster is into Antman.  All Antmen, really.
 
Erfon is REALLY into Twitch
 
Leander is into Grain Audio’s shelf speakers
 
Direct download: CultCast_189_-_Kahney_s_Crackhouse.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:42pm PDT

This week: We all love the popular products, but this ep. we’ll remember some of Apple’s biggest blunders!  Plus: why the new iPods might be the last iPods; Apple’s missing back to school promotion; and perfect way to motivate your lazy workforce...
 
Please to support our sponsors
 
If you’re waking up with numb limbs or back pain, Casper's American-made mattresses can help, and with a price far lower than you’ll find in the stores.  Learn how, try one risk free for 100 days, and save $50 off your order at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
HipChat's team communication app helps all teams work together more effectively, and gets you the information you need faster than email. Get premium features like unlimited file storage and unlimited message history FREE for 90 days when you sign up at Hipchat.com/cultofmac
 
VideoBlocks is an affordable, subscription-based stock media site that gives you unlimited access to premium stock footage. Start a 7 day free trial at Videoblocks.com/promo/cultcast
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a big thanks for all the great music you hear on today's show. 
 
This week’s links
 
Intro: Peep the Pippin!
 
Buster’s Theme Song
 
Leander really hated the Apple Studio display
 
See the Macintosh TV in action
 
The hockey puck mouse wasn’t THAT bad...
 
Apple unveils new iPods in six colors
Direct download: CultCast_188_-_Hes_got_legs.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:36pm PDT

This week: how to train Apple Music to dish up better tunes; Microsoft calls it quits on the phone game; iOS 9 and El Capitan betas go public; awkward stories from Disneyland; and the REAL REASON Apple is building a “Spaceship” campus...
 
Out thanks to Bushel for supporting this episode, the simple-to-use cloud-based tool that anyone can leverage to manage the Apple devices in their workplace. Get Bushel for free for up to 3 devices when you sign up at www.bushel.com/cultofmac
 
And Squarespace.  Start building your website today at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Leander metioned Soundshare as the best social music network
 
Jim Carey’s brilliant In Living Color characters
 
 
Training Apple Music’s “For You” section

 

Construction worker from Campus 2 says Apple has raised US building standards
Direct download: CultCast_187_-_Into_The_Mothership.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:38pm PDT

Ok, we're impressed—Apple Music with Beats1 isn’t just another Spotify… it has some genuinely innovative features some of us are absolutely falling for.  
 
This week, we’ll tell you what we like and don’t about Apple's shiny new music service, and compare it to Spotify, the current king of music steaming.  Plus,  the new Steve Jobs trailer is out!  Stick around to hear us complain about Seth Rogen’s “Woz".
 
Happy Canada day to our Canadian friends!
 
Happy 4th of July to our US friends!
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors.  Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
And CultCloth!  CultCloth’s dense weave and crushed fibers keep your Apple devices sparking clean.  Check out the gallery at CultCloth.co and use code CultCast at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This weeks links
 
So you don’t get charged when your free trial is over
Apple Music -> Account -> View Apple ID -> Subscriptions -> Automatic Renewal -> Off
 
 
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_186_-_Let_them_have_Beats.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:10pm PDT

This week: the cool features in the new iOS 8.4, iOS 9, and El Capitan betas; Taylor Swift starts a royalty battle with Apple; the ridiculously low payouts artists get from music streaming; the new Macbook’s big missing feature; and the magic of Apple advertising.
 
Out thanks to Bushel for supporting this episode, the simple-to-use cloud-based tool that anyone can leverage to manage the Apple devices in their workplace. Get Bushel for free for up to 3 devices when you sign up at www.bushel.com/cultofmac
 
And CultCloth!  CultCloth’s dense weave and crushed fibers keep your Apple devices sparking clean.  Check them out at CultCloth.co and use code CultCast at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
This weeks links
 
This single from the Darkness
 
You heard him—Buster bought Chumbawumba
 
 
Kahney's Korner: Bring back my magnets Jony Ive!
 
Direct download: CultCast_185_-_Saucin.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:39pm PDT

This week: we know you just got your Apple Watch, but we talk rumored updates for the Apple Watch 2.  Plus: why some publishers are outraged by Apple’s new News app; the FCC slams AT&T with a HUGE fine for throttling your data; and we talk amazing E3 announcements and Jurassic World in an all new What We’re Into.
 
Our thanks to Quickbooks Self Employed for supporting this episode.  QuickBooks Self-Employed helps separate your business and personal expensesplus it helps take the guesswork out of your estimated quarterly and year- end taxes and makes it easy to pay what you owe.
 
Find out what QuickBooks Self-Employed can do for you and receive fifty percent off at tryselfemployed.com/cultcast
 
 
This week’s links
 
Zoo keepers love Jurassic World
 
Leander likes his Amazon Echo 
 
And he thinks the wireless speakers from ultimate ears sound fantastic
 
Check out this incredible E3 demo of Microsoft’s Hololens
 
Fallout Shelter is free and fun, and it’s now the top grossing game on the App Store
Direct download: CultCast_184_-_Force_Touch_It.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:20pm PDT

This week: were on the ground for WWDC and AltConf!  We’ll tell you what it’s like.  Plus: our favorite features announced at the WWDC keynote; why we have high hopes for Beats 1 radio on Apple Music; Phil Schiller discusses some of Apples more controversial product decisions in a surprising new interview; and, though it’s all cheers for consumers, we’ll tell you why some developers dread Apple’s yearly WWDC announcements.
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors.  Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
And Squarespace.  Start building your website today at Squarespace.com.  Enter offer code [CultCast] at checkout to get 10% off. Squarespace—Build it Beautiful.
 
This week’s links
You should rewatch this WWDC opening with Bill Hader
 
iOS 9 s awesome two finger trackpad gesture is coming to iPhone
 
At WWDC, clues that Apple is adding a stylus to the iPad abound
 
Apple’s new ‘Move to iOS’ app helps Android users switch to iPhone - buster
 
All the awesome features coming to your Apple Watch this fall
 
Direct download: CultCast_183.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:13pm PDT

This week: don’t expect hardware… we’ll tell you why the 2015 WWDC could be one of the tamest on record.  Plus: Apple pretty much confirms Apple TV will be your home’s digital hub; Facebook’s an impenetrable fortress with too much power; and the tale of a Bay Area woman who just unknowingly junked her $200,000 Apple-1 computer… whoopsie!
 
Our thanks to Automatic for supporting this episode.  Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off a new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cult
 
And Lynda.com, which has over 3000 expert-taught video courses for you to choose from. Learn to run your business better, hone your skills at Photoshop, learn how to create music with your iPad, and so much more.  Learn all you want for free for 10 days, head to lynda.com/cultcast to start your free trial.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This weeks links
 
Your mind, the pinnacle of computing power 
Direct download: CultCast_182_-_Hashtag_iCar.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:30pm PDT

This week: Jony Ive’s big promotion has him leaving the design lab… is this step one of an Ive succession plan?  Plus: the surprising suitability of Ive’s replacement, Richard Howarth; Apple VP Jeff Williams let’s some curious Apple Car comments slip; why Apple Watch will get a lot faster come fall; Leander reveals his fetish for the weird whispering women of Youtube; and stay tuned till the end for a very romantic Get To Know Ur Cultist!
 
Our thanks to CultCloth for supporting this episode.  If you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” as checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
 
This weeks links
 
Relax with Bob Ross and his happy little trees
 
Leander’s weird whispering fetish videos!
 
And check out Kahneys Korner!
 
Cars are ‘ultimate mobile device’ and other Apple insights from Jeff Williams - buster
 
Everything we know about Richard Howarth, Apple’s new ‘badass’ head of industrial design
 
Apples Watch apps are about to get the speed boost they desperately need
Direct download: CultCast_181.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:03pm PDT

This week: ok sure, Apple may have forever shelved plans for a proper television, but reports of a souped-up Apple TV debuting at WWDC will make you forget all that.  Plus: the good stuff in Apple’s first Watch update; new Macbook Pros and iMacs get faster specs and bigger price tags; and Steve Jobs teaches bad actors a lesson they shan’t forget.
 
Keep your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch sparking clean with CultCloth!  Use code “CultCast” at checkout for a free 8x8 CleanCloth with any order.
 
Our thanks to FreshBooks for supporting this episode.  Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
And Squarespace!  Squarespace Seven doesn’t just have a redesigned interface, integrations with Getty Images and Google Apps, and new templates, they give you a bunch of tools to update your website on the go and view your metrics right on your iPhone. Try the new Squarespace free for two weeks Squarespace.com, and enter offer code CultCast at checkout to save 10% off any order.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear on today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Intro: Windows 95 still playing catch-up
 
Leander Witnessed this Noah Wiley/Steve Jobs showdown!
 
The first Apple Watch software update is here
 
Apple launched a number of new Macs through the Apple Online Store today,
 
iPhone 6s might launch as soon as August - boostier
 
Michael Fassbender still doesn’t look much like Steve Jobs in first teaser trailer
 
New Apple TV with App Store and Siri will debut at WWDC
Direct download: CultCast_180_-_Beards_Only.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:21pm PDT

This week: why the iPhone 6s could be the biggest “S” update yet; Nintendo promises 5 top-notch titles coming to iOS; the paltry earnings of top Mac App Store apps; and just when we thought we’ve seen every iPhone accessory imaginable, a new gadgets sneaks up on our behinds. We mean behind us. No.  Just… just listen.
 
Join the twitter and Periscope party:
@bst3r / @erfon / @alexeheath / @lkahney
 
Thanks to Casper for supporting this episode. If you’re waking up with numb limbs or back pain, Casper's American-made mattresses can help, and with a price far lower than you’ll find in the stores.  Learn how, try one risk free for 100 days, and save $50 off your order at Casper.com/cultcast.
 
And Automatic!  Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and via their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off your new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cultcast.
 
And thanks to Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Intro - What is Newton??  
 
iPhone 6s could be Apple’s biggest ‘incremental’ upgrade of all time
Direct download: CultCast_179_-_Code_Brown.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:54pm PDT

For years Apple has been reportedly working their magic on the worst device in every home—the remote control. And now, with a rumored new Apple TV on the the horizon, we’ll tell you why an Apple-hewn controller could be its flagship feature.  Plus: how to create your own Apple Watch band; how to share your digital heartbeat with other lonely Apple Watch wearers; and we vote on our favorite new gadgets on an all-new Faves ’N Raves.
 
And stick around for CultCast 2nd hour with our guest, award-winning graphic designer and professor, Sean Adams. Sean shares his insights, tools, and tips for breaking into the design industry, building a name for yourself, and why everyone needs to care about design.
 
We have three great sponsors this episode:
 
Lynda.com has over 3000 courses for you to choose fro. Learn to run your business better, become a photoshop ninja, learn how to create music with your iPad, and so much more.  Learn all you want for free for 10 days, just head to lynda.com/cultcast to start your free trial.
 
Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors.  Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Lonely Apple Watch buyers turn to the Internet to share their heartbeats
 
How third-party bands are allowed to work with Apple Watch
 
Apple’s aggressive music ambitions draw DOJ scrutiny
 
Patents suggest Apple TV wand full of Cupertino magic
 
Apple is planning to launch its new TV box this summer
 
Help us pick this week’s Faves N Raves winner at Facebook.com/thecultcast 
 
Get some inspiration from Sean Adam’s Design blog

 

 

 

Direct download: CultCast_178_-_The_Dangler.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:57pm PDT

t’s been a week now that we’ve been living with the Apple Watch affixed upon our wrists, and in that time, we’ve curated a list of what we love, what we don’t, and our overall impressions of Apple’s newest trinket.   And while some of us are smitten, not all of us are sold.
 
Our thanks to Automatic for supporting this episode.  Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off your new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cultcast.
 
And CultCloth!  Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” as checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
Join the twitter and Periscope party:
@bst3r / @erfon / @alexeheath / @lkahney
 
This week’s links
 
Intro courtesy of the iToilet: Your interactive toilet
Direct download: CultCast_177_-_A_week_with_Apple_Watch..mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:27pm PDT

Apple Watch, inbound!  And now that it is, we’ll take a look at some of the most useful Watch apps available, and just for fun, some of the stinkiest.  Plus: the noteworthy differences between the Sport and Steel; why those “scratch test” videos shouldn’t trouble you; and finally, you’ll never believe what our ol’ pal and ex-Apple exec Scott Forstall is up to now...
 
Join the twitter and Periscope party:
@bst3r / @erfon / @alexeheath / @lkahney
 
Our thanks to FreshBooks for supporting this episode.  Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
And CultCloth!  Let’s face it, CultCloth isn’t for everyone.  But if you’re obsessive about keeping your iPhone, iPad, Mac, DSLR, glasses, and other gadgets in sparkling clean condition, you’ll love ‘em.  Check them out now at CultCloth.co, and use code “CultCast” as checkout to score a free 8x8 CleanCloth!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
He’s mysterious and the ladies love him
 
Modeling’s a man’s job!
 
What does it take to scratch the Apple Watch Sport’s Ion X Glass?
 
Anxious buyers freak out about Apple Watch shipments
Direct download: CultCast_176.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:29pm PDT

This week: why trying on the Apple Watch will make you a believer; our WWDC hardware predictions; why a recent acquisition might mean a revolutionary new iPhone camera; Leander reviews the new Macbook; and a very special wedding surprise for our very special Buster Hein.
 
Our thanks to FreshBooks for supporting this episode.  Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the CultCast intro music.
 
Join the twitter and Periscope party:
@bst3r / @erfon / @alexeheath / @lkahney
 
This weeks links
 
This week’s intro: The Pitch
 
If you want you can donate to Busters wedding gift fund!
 
Good work Johnson, thats one of them “super computers” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VwSfyoygA2g&spfreload=10
 
Karl Lagerfelds Apple Watch is almost as sexy as his gloves 
 
How an in-store Apple Watch demo will make you a believer
 
Apple will kick off WWDC 2015 on June 8
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_175_-__Dadwear_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:47pm PDT

This week:  get’em while they’re hot! The Apple Watch is ready for pre-order, but the reviews are in, and they’re a mixed bag. Plus: what’s good in iOS 8.3 and OS X 10.10.3; how to get a free month of HBO NOW; Samsung is up to their old tricks; the new Macbook didn’t benchmark well, but it might not matter; and things get weird in an all-new Get to Know Your Cultist!
 
Our thanks to FreshBooks for supporting this episode.  Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
And Squarespace!  Squarespace Seven doesn’t just have a redesigned interface, integrations with Getty Images and Google Apps, and new templates, they give you a bunch of tools to update your website on the go and view your metrics right on your iPhone. Try the new Squarespace free for two weeks Squarespace.com, and enter offer code CultCast at checkout to save 10% off any order.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for much of the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
Alex on twitter/periscope - @alexeheath
 
Erfon on twitter/periscope - @erfon
 
Buster on twitter/periscope - @bst3r
 
Alex E is going to resurrect the Milli Vanilli blazer and tights hottness
 
Damn George Michael got ALL the ladies
 
The 17 best Apple Watch tidbits from early reviews - buster
 
Apple retail guru Angela Ahrendts says “The days of waiting in line … are over”
 
OS X update brings Photos app and hundreds of new emojis - alex
 
iOS 8.3 is out with racially diverse emoji, new Siri languages, and more - buster
 
Samsung paid 500 fake fans to attend Galaxy S6 China launch - buster
 
Direct download: CultCast_174_-_Love_Bracelets.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:02pm PDT

This week:  Apple Watch apps are hitting the store, we discuss some of the most popular ones; if you want an Apple Watch you’ll need to pre-order—we’ll tell you why and how.  Plus: we love selfie sticks; Leander's special way of “bookmarking” webpages; and Periscope!  We’ll tell you all about it and why it’s way better than Meerkat.  And stay tuned till the end for Sh*t We’re Into for the non-Apple stuff were all really loving so sweetly.
 
Our thanks to FreshBooks for supporting this episode.  Freshbooks is the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
Aaaaaaand lynda.  Are you an aspiring designer?  lynda.com has 562 video courses on design, color, best practices, typography—and so much more to help you hone your craft and even build your own great brand.  Get full access to Lynda’s entire library, and learn all you want with a free 10-day trial at lynda.com/cultcast
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Come gawk at our incredible Periscopes
@erfon / @bst3r / @alexeheath
 
Apple is officially ready to accept your Watch app 
 
A big ol’ list of Apple Watch apps hitting the store
 
Apple Watch for Sale in Retail Stores by Reservation Only, No Walk-In Sales
 
 
Shite we’re into
Leander likes this awesome Stromer ST2 electric bike
Alex thinks this Cm4 Q Card iPhone case is the hottness
 
Buster is loving Sufjan Stevens' Carry and Loeol album and Wale’s The Album About Nothing featuring… Jerry Seinfeld
 
Erfon keeps rewatching Interstellar on Bluray cause it’s one of the best SciFi movies of all time
Direct download: CultCast_173-The_Bookmark_Folder.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:04pm PDT

This week: more rumors of a souped-up Apple TV coming in June, and we examine the softer side of Steve Jobs, as described in a new unofficial, Apple-backed biography.  Plus: Skynet is the stuff of movies, but Elon Musk, Steven Hawking, and now Steve Wozniak, all believe AI is a big threat.  Should we worried?  You’re gonna want to unplug your Segway after this discussion.   And stay tuned for an all new Faves N Raves where we pitch our favorite tech and vote on which is best!
 
Our thanks to FreshBooks for supporting this episode.  Freshbooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
And Chipolo.  Tired of searching for your lost your keys, wallet, or other belongings? Well affix a Chipolo bluetooth tracker to your stuff and they’ll never be lost again.   With a built-in super loud speaker and their smart iPhone app, you’ll find your lost stuff fast.  Get your hands on Chipolo now at Chipolo.net.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This weeks links
 
Intro: Owner of Segway dies on Segway
 
Watch Woz boss around on his not-yet-self-aware Segway
 
If you want to die on an electric bike, this model might be the one for you
 
Apple intends to show the device off at its annual World Wide Developers Conference in June - John Paczkowski at Buzzfeed News
 
Woz: ‘The future is scary and very bad for people’ - buster
 
Apple officially loves new Steve Jobs bio, hated old one (Becoming Steve Jobs - Brent Schlender, Rick Tetzeli)
 
Steve Jobs had to be convinced that multi-touch was the future - luke
Our Fave and Rave picks
Nokia Lumia 635 - $70.  Yes... Leander chose a Nokia….
E3 Peak Electric Mountain Bike - $3000.  Buster obviously cheated this week.
MacID iOS app - $4.  Clearly the king of all picks.
Doxie Go WiFi Scanner - $180.  It scans paper.  How cool.
Direct download: CultCast_172_-_Segway_Drives_YOU-v2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:04pm PDT

This week: it’s kind of a big deal—Nintendo is finally bringing their games to iOS!  Plus: the reviews are in, and people are loving the new Force Cluck Touch Trackpad; Apple’s rumored streaming TV service might land in June; and why the new Macbook hails the end for the Macbook Air. 
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors.  Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
And FreshBooks, the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Erfon on twitter/instagram - @erfon
 
Leander on twitter/instagram - @lkahney
 
Buster on twitter/instagram - @bst3r
 
Duo Mobile makes 2-factor authentication easier
 
Nintendo gives in: Mario, Zelda and more are coming to your smartphone

 

Direct download: CultCast_171.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:01pm PDT

 
This week: we break down all that we know and still don’t about the Apple Watch, and Leander says why the $10,000 gold editions are totally opposite Steve Jobs’ vision for the company he co-founded.  Plus: Apple quietly kills their iconic glowing logo; what we love and don’t about the new Macbook, and why some are not thrilled with its new “butterfly” keyboard; and with HBO Now coming exclusively to Apple… could big AppleTV changes be on the horizon?
 
Our thanks for Freshbooks for supporting this episode.  FreshBooks is the easy-to-use invoicing software designed to help small business owners get organized, save time invoicing and get paid faster.  And I can vouch for this from experience, it also makes tax time a cinch.  Get started with a free trial at Freshbooks.com/cultcast, and please enter “CultCast” in the “How did you hear about us?” section!
 
And Squarespace!  Squarespace Seven doesn’t just have a redesigned interface, integrations with Getty Images and Google Apps, and new templates, they give you a bunch of tools to update your website on the go and view your metrics right on your iPhone. Try the new Squarespace free for two weeks Squarespace.com, and enter offer code CultCast at checkout to save 10% off any order.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Erfon on twitter/instagram - @erfon
 
 
Apple quietly killed its glowing logo today
 
Why the $10,000 gold Apple Watch really winds me up
 
 
The new MacBook isn’t for you, it’s for the future

 

Direct download: CultCast_170_-_Too_Many_Dongles.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:31pm PDT

It’s time for all our Apple Watch hopes and dreams to come true.  With the big event coming March 9th, catch our Spring Forward event expectations, all that we (think we) know about the Apple Watch thus far, how much each edition will cost, and our expectations for other Apple hardware announcements. Plus: why Apple watch will replace your keys; Apple adds cars to its list of products; and since the new Photos app for Mac just hit public beta, we’ll tell you what we like and don’t about Apple’s iPhoto replacement.
 
Thanks to lynda.com for supporting this episode. Learn to run your business better, become a photoshop ninja, learn how to create music with your iPad, and so much more.  Lynda now has over 3000 courses for you to choose from, and now they’re offering our listeners a 10 day free trial.  Learn all you want for free for 10 days, head on over to lynda.com/cultcast
 
And Audible, home of over 150,000 audio books from practically every genre in existence.  Grab Leander's book, Jony Ive: The Genius Behind Apple's Greatest Products, for FREE with a 30-day Audible trial.  The book is yours to keep even if you decide not to keep your Audible subscription.  Get started now at audiblepodcast.com/cultcast
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
 
This week’s links
Intro - Will the Watch be Apple’s most personal device yet?
 
Careful with those drugs!
 
Apple officially wants to be recognized as a car maker
 
Apple will live stream March 9 Apple Watch event!
 
What to expect from Apple’s ‘Spring Forward’ Watch event
Apple could surprise us with 12-inch MacBook Air next week
Apple seeds first public beta of Photos app with OS X 10.10.3

 

 
Direct download: CultCast_169_-_The_Blizzard_Took_My_Internet.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:20pm PDT

This week: Apple might be eyeing 2020 for their first car, but you can catch our most wanted features and price expectations right now.  Plus: Cupertino pay massive bonuses to poach top talent; the insane acceleration of Tesla’s new electric car; the new and notable from iOS 8.3 beta; Toyota says “no thanks” to CarPlay; and finally, your listener questions, answered!  
 
Our thanks to Varidesk for their support! With models starting at just $275, Varidesk is the highest quality, least expensive way that we know of to get started with a standing desk.  And you should absolutely check them out, because moving to a standing desk will change your life"
 
Annnnd Squarespace.  Squarespace Seven has a redesigned interface, integrations with Getty Images and Google Apps, new templates, and  impactful one-page websites called Cover Pages. Try the new Squarespace at Squarespace.com, and enter offer code CultCast at checkout to save 10% off any order.
 
And get control of your inbox and save a ton of time with Sanebox.  Sanebox's algorithms learn which emails you want to see and puts the rest into a daily digest you can review or delete all one click. See how accurate it is with a free trial
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for much of the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
Erfon on twitter/instagram - @erfon
 
Alex E Heath on twitter/instagram - @alexeheath
 
Leander on twitter/instagram - @lkahney
 
Buster on twitter/instagram - @bst3r
 
Intro - It’s 1985, can Apple survive?
 
Happy birthday song in 3-part french horn
 
Watch these folks react to the insane acceleration of Tesla’s new P85D
 
Emojitype translates your texts into relevant emojis
 
Ste Smith reviews the Tesla P85+
 
Simon Phoenix is gonna be super happy about his new emoji icons
 
John Spartan doesn’t know how to use the three seashells...
 
 
Check out this week’s fabulous listener-suggested topics on our Facebook page
Direct download: CultCast_168_-_American_as_Apple.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:02pm PDT

Jony Ive and his infamous design team aren’t simply creating the Apple products you use and love, their influence is reshaping Apple itself.  On this episode, we look back at Jony’s humble start, and examine how Sir Ive and team became the powerful core of the world’s greatest company.  Plus, we bet you just can’t wait to get behind the wheel of your very own Apple-made…. minivan?  We'll fill you in on the latest Apple Car rumors.
 
Our sponsors have baller products!
With models starting at just $275, Varidesk  is the highest quality, least expensive way that we know of to get started with a standing desk.  And you should absolutely check them out, because moving to a standing desk will change your life.
 
Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off your new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cult.
 
And get control of your inbox and save a ton of time with Sanebox.  Sanebox's algorithms learn which emails you want to see and puts the rest into a daily digest you can review or delete all one click. See how accurate it is with a free trial
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
Intro: The iPhone call that started it all
The Shape of Things to Come: How an industrial designer became Apple’s greatest product
 
It’s time to rewrite Apple history — with more Jony Ive
 
Apple Gears Up to Challenge Tesla in Electric Cars
 
Touch ID might be coming soon to MacBooks, Magic Mice and trackpads
 
Our Under Review links:
Buster loves Darkroom on iOS for non-destructive photo editing.
 
Leander reviewed the Avea Bluetooth LED bulbs and liked them so much he went out and bought ten.
 
Erfon thinks the audio fidelity of Tidal’s music streaming service is incredible, but its Mac app is a stinker.
 
Direct download: CultCast_167_-_Made_By_Ive.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:15pm PDT

This week: more iCar rumors are swirling… is Apple preparing to give Tesla a run for its money?  Plus: the industries we want Apple to conquer next; why we need Cupertino to get into the space game; college kids love iPhones more than sexy time;  our favorite packs for toting about Apple and DSLR gear; and stay tuned to the end for our new segment, Cross The Streams, where we’ll cover the shows we can’t stop binge-watching.
 
Our thanks to Varidesk for their support! With models starting at just $275, Varidesk is the highest quality, least expensive way that we know of to get started with a standing desk.  And you should absolutely check them out, because moving to a standing desk will change your life.
 
Annnnd Squarespace.  Squarespace Seven has a redesigned interface, integrations with Getty Images and Google Apps, new templates, and  impactful one-page websites called Cover Pages. Try the new Squarespace at Squarespace.com, and enter offer code CultCast at checkout to save 10% off any order.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This weeks links
Intro: Why Microsoft is better than Mac!!
 
Dont cross the streams!
 
Apple working on something to ‘give Tesla a run for its money’
 
 
College students crave iPhones more than sex
 
Sling TV, the Netflix for cable, opens doors to all subscribers, with new channels coming - erfon
 
Our favorite packs to tote your DSLR and Apple gear
Lowepro Photo Sport 200AW - http://store.lowepro.com/photo-sport-200-aw
 
All the shows were currently steaming
Leander’s been watching Boardwalk Empire but he think it’s gone off the rails. -  Amazon Instant Video, HBO Go, and, you know, the internet
 
If you like the X-Files, you need to watch Fringe - On Netflix
 
Alex liked Better Call Saul on AMC - TV or internet
 
Sopranos - Also available on Amazon Instant Video and HBO Go
 
Luther is a cop tracking down serial killers, and Buster likes it - BCC show available on Netflix
Direct download: CultCast_166_-_Space_Hoopties.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:12pm PDT

This week: a curiously equipped mystery van has us wondering if Apple’s working on self-driving autos.  Plus, we review all that  Apple Watch apps can’t do; Sorkin’s Jobs’ biopic gets a cast, and not everyone is thrilled; Apple’s plans for a global “data command center”; and Macho Man Randy Savage helps us answer listeners questions in an all-new Get to Know Your Cultist.
 
Thanks to lynda.com for supporting this episode. Learn to run your business better, become a photoshop ninja, learn how to create music with your iPad, and so much more.  Lynda now has over 3000 courses for you to choose from, and now they’re offering our listeners a 10 day free trial.  Learn all you want for free for 10 days, head on over to lynda.com/cultcast
 
And Varidesk! With models starting at just $275, Varidesk is the highest quality, least expensive way that we know of to get started with a standing desk.  And you should absolutely check them out, because moving to a standing desk will change your life.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
 
This weeks links
Mr T wants you to treat your mother right
 
Leander wants to you go to the Spandau Ballet with him
 
Macho Man Randy Savage is the cream of the crop!
 
And he wants you to SNAP IT TO A SLIM JIM!!
 
Tesla should borrow” from this handy prototype Apple Watch app
 
Mystery Van Could Be Apple’s Entry In Effort To Develop Driverless Vehicle
 
Why the Apple Watch’s first apps might disappoint you
 
 
Meet the official cast of the Steve Jobs movie
 
Apple’s failed Arizona sapphire plant will be $2 billion data ‘command center’
Direct download: CultCast_165_-_Do_You_Flex_Bro_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:32pm PDT

This week: Apple has their best quarter ever; Apple Watch is coming in April; the best parts of the new iOS and Yosemite updates; Disney considers rebooting Indiana Jones; and then catch El Kahn’s TMI moment in Facts of Life, a new game where we mix real facts with fake ones then guess which is which!
 
Our thanks to Varidesk for supporting this episode.  With models starting at just $275, Varidesk is the highest quality, least expensive way that we know of to get started with a standing desk.  And you should absolutely check them out, because moving to a standing desk will change your life. Your buns will thank you.
 
And Automatic!  Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful iOS app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  Save 20% off your new Automatic plus get free shipping at Automatic.com/cult.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
 
This weeks  links
Steve Ballmer isn’t so sure about the iPhone
 
 
Apple reduces amount of free storage needed for updates with iOS 8.1.3
 
Apple releases OS X Yosemite 10.10.2 with Wi-Fi and Spotlight fixes
 
Apple shatters records with $74.6 billion in revenue, $18 billion in profit for Q1 2015
 
Revelations from Apple’s historic earnings call
Direct download: CultCast_164_-_Live_Long_and_Prosper.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:20pm PDT

This week: why Apple Watch will win the wrist war; we snap a pic with Patrick Stewart and he’s NOT amused; the good and bad of a Lucas-free Star Wars 7; Microsoft’s new Hololens look incredible; and we reveal some of our favorite apps and gear on an all-new Under Review.
 
PSA: Come hang out with Erfon live and bring your podcasting questions on Sunday the 25th at 1pm Pacific.  Just head over to live.thecultcast.com
 
On the show this week
 
 
It’s a Circle of Life! Please support our sponsors!
 
Squarespace Seven has a completely redesigned interface, integrations with Getty Images and Google Apps, new templates, and an incredible feature called Cover Pages. Try the new Squarespace, at Squarespace.com, and enter offer code [show’s offer code] at checkout to get 10% off.
 
Plug Automatic into your car's data port, and with their beatiful app, you'll be able to find your parked car, learn how to save fuel with tips based on your actual driving, and even diagnose and turn off your car's check engine light.  See it out in action and save 20% off your new Automatic now at Automatic.com/cultcast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
 
This weeks story links
 
How George Lucas Star Wars 7 Ideas Were Used By Disney
 
Steve Jobs rolls over in his grave: the iPad Pro could have a stylus
 
Goodbye Glass This is your last chance to get your hands on Google’s head up display
 
Apple Watch wins the wrist war before it starts
 
 
Also, watch these
 
The Knowledge Navigator is Apple’s computer of the future
 
Famous pals Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellan do great impressions… of each other!
 
Hear why Martin Sexton is an American treasure
 
And here’s Erfon with a wax Patrick Steward
 
 
Our Under Review Picks
 
Buster - Near Lock for iOS and Mac unlocks your Mac when your iPhone is near.  Free
 
Erfon - The Marantz HD-DAC1 headphone amp pairs beautifully with your iOS and Mac and delivers superb audio quality.  $800 
 
Alex - AllCast for iOS let’s you AirPlay your iPhone content to the Chromecast, Xbox,  Roku, Amazon Fire stick—just about anything.  Free or $5 to lose the ads and watermark
 
 
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_163_-_What_Would_Yeezus_Do.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:43pm PDT

This week: optical zoom and Force Touch rumored for the iPhone 6s; autonomous future-cars chauffeur us about; we’re back from Vegas with a full report on the best gadgets, technology, and trends from the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show; and for small fee, we cover your enemies in a layer of spectacular glitter.  Yes... seriously.
 
Our thanks to Harry’s for supporting this episode. Harry’s super-sharp, German-made razors ship free right to your door and for way less than the drugstore razors.  Learn more at Harrys.com and save $5 off your first order with code CultCast.
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
Ask Erfon anything you want about podcasting on Sunday, January 25th at 1pm Pacific time!  Bring your questions or just come hang out for an hour at live.thecultcast.com
 
BlackBerry gets caught tweeting from an iPhone
 
Obama wants US internet speeds to go way up and prices to go down
 
Apple eyes big improvements for iPhone 6s camera
 
Musings on CES 2014 (discussion)
The coolest and most useful gadgets 
Technology trends this year
Best we did at the show
Trends in new car tech
 
ENRAGE YOUR ENEMIES BY SENDING THEM AN ENVELOPE FULL OF GLITTER
 
Direct download: CultCast_162-1_Beware_our_Glitterbombs_3.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:32pm PDT

This week: someone tried to burn down the Mrs. Doubtfire house—time for a drive-by fruiting; prepare thy wrists, the  Watch cometh in March; details on a radically new Macbook Air; and… as promised!  With over 430,000 Instagram followers, @withhearts joins us to talk mobile photography, his favorite photo apps and gear, and his tips for capturing beautiful images with your favorite iDevice.
 
And guess what??  This episode is brought to you by Squarespace!
 
Squarespace recently launched the latest version of their platform, Squarespace Seven, which has a completely redesigned interface, integrations with Getty Images and Google Apps, new templates, and an incredible feature called Cover Pages. Try the new Squarespace, at Squarespace.com, and enter offer code [show’s offer code] at checkout to get 10% off.
 
And thanks to Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
 
The sexy dudes on this episode
 
Erfon “the-perfect-six-pack-abs” Elijah
 
Cory Staudacher aka @withhearts
 
Buster/Alex/Leander are drunk in Las Vegas.  They’ll prob. be back next week.
 
 
This week’s links
 
Intro - Don’t you f#cking call it an iWatch! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cux9T9wvERs&spfreload=10
 
Someone tried to set the Mrs. Doubtfire house on fire!
 
Apple transforms retail stores into art galleries for ‘Start Something New’ campaign
Apple’s next major Mac revealed: the radically new 12-inch MacBook Air
 
Cory uses this stuff
 
An iPhone 6 Plus and a Canon 5D Mark III
 
Joby Gorilla Pod
 
Vsco Cam (he likes the M5, P5, and A5 presets)
 
Manual Custom Exposure Camera give you fine-tuned control
 
Filterstorm to remove stuff from your photos… like guys flashing their nipples
 
Average Camera Pro combines multiple pictures into one.  Good at giving water that “glass look"
 
Cortex Cam works well for taking low-light photographs
 
 
Direct download: CultCast_161_-_2015__SPACE_ELEVATORS.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:54pm PDT

This week, on our maiden episode of 2015: The story of an iOS developer who gave a gift so generous, it went totally viral; Discovering new apps and podcasts on iTunes is an awful experience, but we know how to fix it; plus, how Steve Jobs contributions helped build the new Disney...
 
And stay tuned for an all-new CultCast 2nd Hour!  Pro photographer David Hobby shares his favorite gear for travel pics, his tips and tactics for taking great travel photos, plus his street photography advice will help you not get punched...
 
Thanks to lynda.com for supporting this episode. Learn to run your business better, become a photoshop ninja, learn how to create music with your iPad, and so much more.  lynda now has over 4500 courses for you to choose from, and now they’re offering our listeners a 10 day free trial.  Learn all you want for free for 10 days, head on over to lynda.com/cultcast
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s links
 
Erfon on twitter/instagram - @erfon
 
Leander on twitter/instagram - @lkahney
 
Buster on twitter/instagram - @bst3r
 
This week's intro
 
iOS dev pays off his parents’ mortgage for Christmas
 
iPhone 6 drives App Store to new download record
 
Apple Pay comes to gas pumps in 2015
 
How Jobs helped shape the new Disney
 
2nd Hour Links
 
David Hobby on twitter: 
 
Learn how to light on his Strobist site: 
 
His favorite travel camera is the Fuji X100S:  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HK8ZBE0
 
The Fuji X100T is the newer version of the X100S: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NF6ZGY6
 
David loves the book The Passionate Photographer: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0321719891
 
David’s lynda catalog of courses (please use lynda.com/cultcast to sign up):
Direct download: CultCast_160_Grandpa_Clown.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:18pm PDT

With 2015 nearly upon us, we pick our favorite tech, iOS apps, Mac apps, movies, and tv shows—everything that delighted us in 2014, on this very special, far too long, last-episode-of-the-2014 CultCast.
 
Thanks to lynda.com for supporting this episode. Learn to run your business better, become a photoshop ninja, learn how to create music with your iPad, and so much more.  Lynda now has over 4500 courses for you to choose from, and now they’re offering our listeners a 10 day free trial.  Learn all you want for free for 10 days, head on over to lynda.com/cultcast
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for much of the great music you hear in today's show.
 
On This Episode
Boostier Hhhheine - @bst3r
Erfon Elijah - @erfon
Adam Christianson - @maccast
 
 
And def. check out
 
Our fave Tech Products
 
Our fave Mac Apps
 
Our fave iOS Apps
 
Our fave iOS Games
 
Our fave Movies
 
Our fave Christmas Movies
 
Our Fave TV Shows
The Walking Dead 
Once Upon A Time
YoungArts Master Series
Game of Thrones
Breaking Bad
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver

 

 

 

Your mom!
Direct download: CultCast_159_-_2014_Favorite_Stuff-A-Sode.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:18pm PDT

Merry CultCast boys and girls!  This week: Santa gets a little “grabby”; Apple wins a major lawsuit; our iPhones deserve "rollover" data plans; the incredibly low payouts artists get from Spotify; and the high-end gifts we really want but will never get on an all-new Get To Know Your Cultist.
 
Thanks to Audible for supporting this episode. Audible, the home of over 150,000 audio books from practically every genre in existence.  Grab Leander's book, Jony Ive: The Genius Behind Apple's Greatest Products, for FREE with a 30-day Audible trial.  The book is yours to keep even if you decide not to keep your Audible subscription.  Get started now at audiblepodcast.com/cultcast
 
We also want to give Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com a huge thanks for all the great music you hear in today's show.
 
Announcement!
 
Join us for a live CultCast hangout on Saturday, December 20th, 1pm.  Just head to live.thecultcast.com
 
Links to this week’s stories
 
Apple wins at last: iTunes DRM was ‘genuine improvement,’ jury finds
 
T-Mobile’s Un-carrier 8.0 plan is rollover minutes for your data
 
Bose plans to take on Beats with its own music streaming service
 
The expensive Christmas gifts we’ll never get
 
Leander is drooling over this $16,000 road bike: http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/performance_race/emonda/
 
Alex and Erfon want to find this $1300 Fuji X100T camera under their tree: http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x100t/
 
Buster wants the new $2000 full-frame A7 II from Sony:  http://www.wired.com/2014/11/sony-alpha-a7-mark-2/
 
This $3000 electric bicycle Erfon wants will have you blasting up hills like rocketman: http://www.currietech.com/eflowebikes/eflow-e3-nitro-l-4
 
Leander wants a 4K tele but needs to convince his wife:  
 
Erfon drove the BMW i3 at CES this year, and if can muster $40,0000 he’s gonna buy it: 
Direct download: CultCast_158_-_On_Your_Left.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:21pm PDT

This week: the Sony hack reveals all sorts of juicy Jobs movie tidbits; HBO uses Game of Thrones to break big cable’s iron grip; iPod Classic prices skyrocket as fans scramble to buy them; we’ll tell you how to get some fantastic iOS games absolutely free; and then we pitch our favorite tech and vote on which is best… it’s an all new Faves ’N Raves.
 
Thanks to lynda.com for support this episode. Learn to run your business better, become a photoshop ninja, learn how to create music with your iPad, and so much more.  Lynda now has over 4500 courses for you to choose from, and now they’re offering our listeners a 10 day free trial.  Learn all you want for free for 10 days, head on over to lynda.com/cultcast
 
And a big thanks to Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com for the great music you hear in today's show.
 
This week’s stories
HBO will use Game of Thrones to break cable’s iron grip
 
Fans scramble for iPod Classic, the music player Apple killed off
 
Sony hack reveals dirty secrets behind Aaron Sorkin’s Steve Jobs movie
 
Jeff Daniels slated to play ex-Apple CEO in Steve Jobs movie
 
Pocket Gamer will give away a top-rated iOS game every day for two weeks
 
This week’s intro
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12bojHojBKY&spfreload=10
 
And these vids….
Direct download: CultCast_157_-_Inside_the_Sony_Hack.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:48pm PDT