AllYouCanTech

Current Top MacBook Offers: Beginning Prices from $599

# The Present Situation of MacBooks in the Apple Silicon Period

During the Apple Silicon period, MacBooks have become more budget-friendly than ever, with brand new models beginning at just $599. With impending global tariffs, these fantastic offers may be nearing their conclusion soon. If you’re considering acquiring a new MacBook, this might be one of the prime moments to buy.

Apple’s newest macOS Tahoe update has also discontinued support for almost all Intel Macs, with a few exceptions. If you’re eager to utilize the latest and most advanced Apple software, this is an ideal time to make an upgrade.

## M1 MacBook Air

Since the onset of the Apple Silicon period, Apple has released four MacBook Air models, incorporating the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still showcases a recognizable wedge design from the Intel era, which many users might favor.

Even after four years, the M1 MacBook Air remains a superb laptop for its value. It offers swift performance courtesy of the M1 chip, an impressive Retina display (though with thicker bezels than newer variants), a quality keyboard, and up to 18 hours of battery endurance. Furthermore, it runs quietly, making it ideal for use in public spaces.

As the oldest entry on this list, the M1 MacBook Air is also the least expensive. However, locating new units with over 256GB of storage might be challenging. On the plus side, it is still the only Apple Silicon MacBook that comes in a true Gold hue.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air starting at $599 at Walmart in all three shades: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold.

– **13-inch MacBook Air (M1) featuring 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory:** [$599 at Walmart](https://howl.link/yui329teypivr)

## M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple unveiled a reimagined MacBook Air with a sleeker design, a larger display with narrower bezels, and the return of MagSafe. This model launched with the M2 chip and has continued with the M3.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly been sold out, and the same is becoming true for M3 models, although various options remain, especially the 15-inch MacBook Air.

– **15-inch MacBook Air equipped with M3 chip, 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory:** [$1099 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/42nEpaT) ($600 off!)

This MacBook is an outstanding option for those needing additional unified memory, which is advantageous for multitasking.

## M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple revealed an updated MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip. This model includes a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

At present, you can save at least $100 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly developing a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip for the upcoming year, but at these prices, the MacBook Air remains a fantastic pick.

– **13-inch MacBook Air equipped with M4 chip:**
– 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$899 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9)
– 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$1068 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4o0M7jn)
– 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$1223 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3KyKcEp)

– **15-inch models with M4 chip:** Exceptional offers are available due to its lower starting price.

## M4 MacBook Pro

Apple revamped the MacBook Pro in 2021, featuring a miniLED display with ProMotion, additional ports (including HDMI and an SD card reader), larger batteries, and improved thermals. It also introduces a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Though the MacBook Pro is not as budget-friendly as the MacBook Airs, there are still appealing deals to uncover. All listed models are equipped with the M4 and M4 Pro chips, providing the latest performance and features.

– **16-inch models:**
– M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$2229 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/4e1tacQ)
– M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: [$2599 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/445lGSw)
– M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory:

Initial Benchmarks Indicate Apple’s New M5 Chip Rivaling M1 Ultra

### Apple Introduces M5 Chip with Exciting Performance

Earlier this week, Apple launched three new devices featuring the M5 chip, which is manufactured using the cutting-edge third-generation 3nm process. Presently, the M5 chip is included in the 14-inch MacBook Pro, and initial benchmark outcomes reveal remarkable performance.

#### Details of the M5 Chip

The M5 chip serves as the entry-level option in Apple’s current line-up, comprising 4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores, similar to its predecessor, the M4 chip. In comparison, the M4 Pro provides up to 10 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, while the M4 Max includes 12 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores.

#### Performance Analysis

Regarding performance, the M5 chip exhibits exceptional strengths. It nearly rivals the multi-core capabilities of the M1 Ultra chip released in 2022, which was previously available only in the $4000 Mac Studio. The M5 chip operates just 6% slower than the M1 Ultra in Geekbench 6 multi-core performance benchmarks.

Additionally, the M5 chip’s capabilities are on par with the binned M3 Max chip, which scores 18,933 in multi-core performance, putting the M5 only 5% behind this more powerful chip.

#### Availability and Upcoming Releases

Apple’s silicon technology is continuously advancing, delivering high-performance features that were once exclusive to premium models. The M5 chip’s capabilities are currently accessible in the 14-inch MacBook Pro, which costs $1,599. Nevertheless, it is anticipated to be included in more budget-friendly models, such as the $999 MacBook Air and the $599 Mac mini, soon.

#### Summary

The launch of the M5 chip signifies a considerable leap in Apple’s silicon technology, providing potent performance at a more reasonable price. As the M5 chip becomes available in further models, it is likely to attract a broader range of users looking for high-performance computing without a significant financial burden.

Are you excited about the new M5 product range, or are you planning to wait? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Indie App Highlight: ‘Auvio’ Empowers Users to Generate Endless Soundscapes on iPhone

# Auvio: Your Customized Soundscape Generator

Welcome to the Indie App Spotlight, a weekly feature that showcases the newest breakthroughs in the indie app sector. This week, we shine the spotlight on Auvio, an audio engine crafted to assist users in generating immersive soundscapes for relaxation, concentration, or studying.

## Key Features

Auvio distinguishes itself with several standout features:

– **Offline Capability**: The app is usable without an internet connection, making it ideal for users on the move.
– **Ad-Free Usage**: Experience uninterrupted soundscapes free from the nuisance of advertisements.
– **User-Friendly Interface**: Auvio features a streamlined design that is simple to navigate, enabling users to concentrate on creating their soundscapes.

With Auvio, users can design custom soundscapes by stacking up to six distinct audio tracks. The app presents a variety of sound selections including rain, crackling fire, and urban ambiance, allowing for a customized experience tailored to personal preferences for sleep, meditation, or focus.

A notable aspect of Auvio is its capability to produce seamless audio loops, guaranteeing a smooth listening journey without sudden interruptions.

Alongside personalized soundscapes, Auvio offers a collection of over 150 meticulously curated loops that users can adjust to their preferences. This extensive library serves as a robust base for those looking to delve into various auditory experiences.

For users who appreciate ambient music livestreams on platforms like YouTube, Auvio provides a distinctive and detailed approach to sound crafting that is rare elsewhere.

## Install the App

Auvio can be downloaded from the

Devices and Accessories Compatible with the iPhone 17 USB-C Port

# Investigating the USB-C Features of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air

The launch of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air signifies a major transformation in Apple’s design approach with the integration of a USB-C port at the bottom of these devices. This modification implies that users transitioning from older iPhones will no longer be able to utilize their Lightning accessories. Nonetheless, the benefits of the USB-C port greatly surpass this drawback, offering users improved functionality and adaptability.

## Improved Charging Functionality

One of the key advantages of the USB-C port is its capability to enable quicker charging. Using a compatible USB-C cable and a new charger, users can recharge their iPhones from empty to full much faster than before. The USB-C standard permits a wide variety of accessories to be automatically detected by iOS, enhancing the user experience.

It is critical to recognize that not every USB-C cable is the same. Some are intended solely for charging, while others allow data transfer. To take full advantage of the iPhone 17 Pro’s features, users should choose a USB-3 rated cable, which provides data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps.

## Universal USB-C Charging

The iPhone 17 is accompanied by a high-quality woven USB-C cable that supports charging exclusively. For users seeking greater versatility, Apple provides additional USB-C charging cables, and numerous economical choices are available from third-party manufacturers. Users can recharge their devices with any USB-C power adapter, including well-known alternatives like Anker’s dual charger. For maximum charging efficiency, a 40-watt power adapter is advisable.

With the embrace of USB-C, Apple has simplified its charging solutions throughout its product range. Devices such as AirPods, MacBook Pro, and iPads can now be powered using the same USB-C cable, minimizing the number of cables users must carry.

## Power Sharing: Charge Other Devices

The increased battery capacities in the latest iPhones enable users to use their devices as portable power banks. This functionality allows users to charge other accessories, such as AirPods or another iPhone, simply by connecting them with a USB-C cable. This feature is especially handy during emergencies when another device is low on power.

## Connecting to External Displays

The USB-C port also introduces new opportunities for linking to external displays. Users can straightforwardly project their iPhone 17 screen to a 4K TV or monitor via a USB-C to HDMI cable. This removes the necessity for extra dongles, simplifying the process of sharing content on larger screens. For extended activities, such as gaming, users might consider utilizing an Apple USB-C Digital AV adapter, which facilitates HDMI connections, continuous charging, and passthrough USB-C.

## Utilizing Portable Storage

By connecting USB-C hard drives and SD card readers, users can directly manage their files on their iPhones. This function is especially advantageous for photographers who wish to transfer images from their cameras straight to their devices. The iPhone 17 Pro’s camera app supports ProRes 4K video recording at high frame rates, making it vital to have sufficient storage. By attaching a USB-3 compatible portable SSD, users can capture high-quality video without the concern of running out of space.

## Connecting Ethernet and Hardware Keyboards

The USB-C support on the iPhone facilitates easy connections with various plug-and-play accessories. Users can attach wired keyboards for typing, USB-C microphones for enhanced audio quality during recordings, and even Ethernet adapters for stable internet access. This versatility increases the iPhone’s usability for productivity tasks.

## Compatibility with USB-C Headphones

For users who prefer wired audio, the iPhone 17 is compatible with any USB-C headphones, including Apple’s USB-C EarPods. This compatibility allows users to easily switch between devices, utilizing the same headphones with their iPhone, Mac, or iPad.

## Multi-Port Hubs for Enhanced Connectivity

The adaptability of USB-C extends to multi-port hubs, enabling users to link multiple accessories at once. For instance, a 5-in-1 hub can facilitate connections to external displays, power sources, and USB devices simultaneously. However, users should keep in mind that the iPhone can deliver a maximum of 4.5 watts of power to the hub, so power-intensive accessories may need an external power supply.

In summary, the switch to USB-C on the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air introduces an array of new features and functions that enrich the overall user experience. From accelerated charging and data transfer to versatile connectivity options, the USB-C port significantly broadens what users can accomplish with their devices.

Kuxiu’s X40 Turbo Unveils Cosmic Orange Color Variant and Offers 25W Qi2.2 Charging [Hands-on Review]

# Apple’s iPhone 16 and 17 Series: A Revolutionary Upgrade with Qi2.2 Wireless Charging

Apple has achieved remarkable progress with its newly launched iOS 26 update, adding support for the novel Qi2.2 wireless charging standard across the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 series. This update enables users to fast-charge their devices wirelessly at rates of up to 25W, representing a significant leap in charging technology.

## The Kuxiu X40 Turbo Charger

Following this update, Kuxiu, a well-known name in iPhone accessories, has introduced the Qi2.2 X40 Turbo charger, which I had the chance to evaluate last month. This charger is the first to provide genuine Qi2.2 25W fast charging capabilities for compatible iPhones. Recently, Kuxiu has launched a new iteration of the X40 Turbo, specifically crafted to match the Cosmic Orange iPhone, featuring a color-coordinated anodized orange aluminum frame.

### Key Highlights of the Kuxiu X40 Turbo Charger

– **25W Qi2.2 Fast Charging**: Works with the following models:
– iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
– iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max
– iPhone Air
– **15W Qi/MagSafe Charging**: For previous iPhone models.
– **Fast Charging for Apple Watch and AirPods**: Diverse charging options.
– **Compact Design**: 25% smaller and sleeker than the original X40.
– **Thermal Control**: Ensures efficiency with temperatures below 40 °C.

### Flexible and User-Friendly Design

The Kuxiu X40 Turbo charger is ideal for various environments, whether on a bedside table, at a workstation, or during travel. It comes with a 45W charging brick, a braided USB-C cable, and a hardshell carrying case, all offered for under $80.

## My Experience with the Charger

I used the new orange variant with the iPhone 17 Pro over several days, achieving reliable outcomes akin to my earlier tests with the iPhone 16 Pro. Charging from 10% to 80% took under 50 minutes, and the charger stayed cool during this time. The magnets aligned perfectly, and the 25W charging speed rendered wireless charging effective for everyday use. The charger’s slim and compact structure allows it to be folded into a puck or expanded into a stand mode, emphasizing its versatility and robust build quality.

### Understanding Qi2.2 Support

The Qi2.2-compatible charger is a transformative tool for users with iPhone 16 or newer models running iOS 26 or later, facilitating 25W charging speeds. Older iPhone models will only be able to utilize 15W charging.

## Pricing, Availability, and Final Remarks

The Kuxiu X40 Turbo in Cosmic Orange is available for $78.99 on Kuxiu’s official site. This pricing includes the charger, a braided USB-C cable, a 45W charging brick, and a hardshell carrying case, making it one of the best all-in-one packages currently on the market. Kuxiu also offers the charger in three additional colors: wood grain, gray, and black. Nevertheless, for those owning a Cosmic Orange iPhone, the new orange variation is an essential accessory.

In summary, the Kuxiu X40 Turbo charger not only improves the charging experience for iPhone users but also aligns seamlessly with Apple’s latest design philosophy, making it a crucial accessory for anyone looking to enhance their iPhone’s functionality.