Current Offers: $100 Discount on 24GB Mac mini, Almost $600 Discount on M4 MacBook Pro, $30 iPhone Air Bumper, and Additional Savings

### Thursday’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break Deals

This Thursday, 9to5Toys has gathered an enthralling selection of deals, particularly emphasizing Apple products. Key discounts feature a notable price reduction on the M4 Mac mini and open-box savings on the M4 Pro MacBook Pro. Here’s a detailed examination of the highlights.

#### 1. **M4 Mac Mini with 24GB RAM – $100 Off**

B&H is presenting the most budget-friendly M4 Mac mini setup with 24GB of RAM for **$699**, reduced from its standard price of **$799**. This transaction signifies a robust **$100 price drop** and aligns with previous mentions of this price. The model encompasses 256GB of storage and is an official configuration, not a customized build. For users who value RAM over storage, this is an outstanding choice, especially since external SSDs can provide extra storage.

#### 2. **Apple 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro – Up to $598 Off**

Best Buy has an attractive deal on the 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro, offering an **open-box discount of $545**, lowering the price to **$1,953.99**. This model includes 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. The unit is in “excellent” condition, confirmed by Geek Squad, and comes with a one-year Apple warranty. For those contemplating a brand-new model, Amazon has it priced at **$2,189**, which is also a significant discount but still above the open-box offer.

#### 3. **Apple iPhone Air Bumper Case – $30**

With the arrival of the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple’s official iPhone Air bumper case is now priced at **$29.99**, nearly **25% off** its usual price of **$39**. This case is engineered for edge protection while preserving the iPhone’s sleek aesthetics. It boasts a new button design for enhanced tactile feedback. Both the Black and Light Blue options are available at this price, making it a fantastic accessory for iPhone Air users.

#### 4. **Latest M4 MacBook Air – $200 Off**

The latest M4 MacBook Air models are experiencing a **$200 price reduction**, with deals accessible at both Amazon and Best Buy. These discounts pertain to various configurations, making it an opportune moment to buy if you’re in the market for a new MacBook Air. While greater discounts may materialize during the upcoming Black Friday sales, the current offers are robust for those aiming to upgrade now.

### Conclusion

These deals reflect some of the finest offers available this week for Apple products, especially for those seeking a new Mac mini or MacBook Pro. With substantial savings on accessories like the iPhone Air bumper case, it’s an ideal chance to enhance your tech setup. Remain vigilant on these deals, as they might not endure for long!

“Slow Horses Creator Talks About Leaving Apple TV Series”

**Slow Horses: A Change in Leadership as Season 5 Comes to an End**

“Slow Horses,” the celebrated spy drama on Apple TV, has just launched its season 5 finale, signaling an important shift for the series. This season not only concludes the present narrative but also represents the final chapter for creator and showrunner Will Smith, who has chosen to depart from the show despite its renewal for two more seasons.

### Showrunner Will Smith’s Exit

In a recent interview, Will Smith detailed the reasons for his exit. He pointed to the demanding production schedule as a major factor, indicating that the responsibilities of the role became progressively difficult. The tight deadlines for season 6, which overlapped with the editing of season 3 and the filming of season 4, made it clear to him that he would be unable to meet the obligations necessary for the forthcoming season.

Smith conveyed that his choice was not made lightly, stating, “It wasn’t a decision. It was a practical acceptance of reality.” He recognized the challenge of managing multiple seasons at once and ultimately concluded that he could not remain in his role without jeopardizing the quality of the show.

### Future of Slow Horses

Despite his exit, Smith is hopeful about the future of “Slow Horses.” Apple TV has appointed Gabby Chiappe and Ben Vanstone to assume the showrunner roles for seasons 6 and 7, respectively. Smith showed faith in the incoming leadership, commending the team and cast, and highlighted that the source material, based on Mick Herron’s novels, will continue to offer rich content for the series.

“It’s an incredible team. It’s an incredible cast. It’s an incredible production,” he stated, affirming that the show is in skilled hands and will keep flourishing.

### Upcoming Seasons

Season 6 of “Slow Horses” has already been shot, with a trailer featured at the conclusion of the season 5 finale. Fans can anticipate the new season to debut in summer or fall 2026. The series has cultivated a devoted fan base, and with the assurance of new leadership, viewers are keen to witness how the story evolves.

### Conclusion

As “Slow Horses” progresses without its original showrunner, the series finds itself at a crucial juncture. Will Smith’s exit denotes the closure of a significant chapter, but his trust in the new creative team indicates that the show will persist in providing the thrilling stories that fans cherish. With the upcoming seasons already in progress, “Slow Horses” is set for a bright future on Apple TV.

Recent Advancements: Touchscreen Mac Computers, OLED iPad Mini, and Ads in Apple Maps

### Apple’s Future Strategies: Insights from Bloomberg Reports

Recent insights from Bloomberg have ignited conversations regarding Apple’s bold future strategies, such as the launch of touchscreen Macs, advertising within Apple Maps, and a new OLED iPad mini. These advancements reflect Apple’s persistent dedication to innovation and responsiveness to market dynamics.

#### Touchscreen Macs

One of the most discussed prospective alterations is the addition of touchscreen capabilities in Macs. This initiative could connect traditional computing with the touch-focused experiences that have become standard in mobile gadgets. By incorporating touchscreen technology, Apple might improve user engagement and unlock new avenues for software applications, especially in creative industries.

#### Ads in Apple Maps

Another noteworthy report emphasizes Apple’s plan to integrate advertisements into Apple Maps. This approach could create a fresh revenue source for the company while enhancing user engagement through targeted promotions and increased visibility for local businesses. Nonetheless, striking a balance between user satisfaction and revenue generation will be vital, as users may respond unfavorably to disruptive ads.

#### OLED iPad Mini

The expected launch of an OLED iPad mini is also stirring anticipation. OLED technology is known for delivering enhanced display quality with superior contrast and color precision, making it a compelling choice for users who depend on their devices for entertainment and productivity. This enhancement could elevate the iPad mini to a top contender in the compact tablet arena.

### Podcast Insights

In the recent episode of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast, hosts Chance Miller and Benjamin Mayo explore these reports, sharing their insights on what these modifications might signify for Apple and its consumers. The dialogue offers listeners a richer understanding of the implications of these changes.

### Join the Conversation

Listeners are invited to connect with the hosts by sending questions or feedback through social media channels such as Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads, or by emailing [email protected].

### Subscribe for More

For those keen on exclusive content, the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription provides ad-free episodes, pre- and post-show material, and bonus episodes for a monthly fee. This subscription model directly supports the hosts and offers fans more insights into the technology landscape.

### Conclusion

As Apple persists in innovating and adjusting to evolving consumer demands, the outlook seems bright with these prospective advancements. The incorporation of touchscreen technology, advertising in Apple Maps, and the debut of an OLED iPad mini could transform user experiences and reinforce Apple’s status within the tech sector.

Affinity Unveils No-Cost Comprehensive Application Incorporating Native Canva Connectivity

Affinity has unveiled a comprehensive redesign of its design suite, merging all its tools into one app for vector, photo, and layout tasks, and making it permanently free.

### ‘Presenting the brand-new Affinity: professional design, now accessible to everyone”

Starting today, users can acquire the new Affinity app, which integrates vector, photo, and layout tools into a single platform. Affinity is now entirely free, indefinitely.

Ash Hewson, CEO of Affinity, remarked, “There’s no hidden agenda, no simplified version, and no surprises. The same accurate, high-performance tools that professionals depend on daily are now available to everyone, as creative freedom should not incur a cost.”

The all-new Affinity was reimagined to provide a fluid experience for transitioning between vector, photo, and layout tasks. It includes a fully adjustable interface, enabling users to tailor their workspace and tools for quick access.

“Creatives can mix and match tools from the Vector, Pixel, and Layout studios to create a workspace that accommodates their individual workflow. Rearrange panels, select the tools you require, eliminate the ones you don’t, and save various configurations for different projects or tasks. Custom studios can also be shared and downloaded, fostering new opportunities for teams and creative communities to share workflows and learn from each other,” Hewson added.

Affinity’s development was influenced by Canva’s Designer Advisory Board and carried out in partnership with creators. “This launch embodies what professionals have indicated is most important: performance, reliability, and creative freedom,” stated Hewson.

### Affinity + Canva

Following last year’s acquisition of Affinity by Canva, today’s announcement enhances integration between the two platforms. For Canva premium account holders, Canva AI’s tools are now accessible directly within Affinity through the new Canva AI Studio. This includes features like Generative Fill, Expand & Edit, and Remove Background, which improve efficiency while granting designers complete control over their projects.

The integration also provides a streamlined method for sharing Affinity projects to Canva, simplifying collaboration with colleagues or clients.

### Availability

The new Affinity is available today for Mac and Windows, with an iPad version expected to launch next year. Canva users can activate the new Affinity with their current account, while both existing Affinity customers and new users will need to create a free Canva account to download it.

iPad Mini 7 Review After Year One: An In-Depth Look at Its Flexibility and Capability

# The Flexibility of the iPad Mini 7: A Year in Review

The iPad mini 7 has made its mark as a favorite gadget among its users, particularly due to its flexibility and user-friendly nature. Although it may not rank as the most powerful tablet in Apple’s collection, it fulfills numerous roles, making it a preferred option for both families and individuals. This article delves into the device’s specifications, design, everyday functionality, and desired features for future models, assessing its influence over the past year.

## Specs

The iPad mini 7 features remarkable specifications that boost its performance and ease of use:

– **Chip**: A17 Pro (same as iPhone 15 Pro)
– **Display**: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina (326 ppi, 60Hz)
– **Camera**: 12MP rear, 12MP front
– **Charging & Port**: USB-C (USB2 speeds)
– **Biometrics**: Touch ID on the lock button
– **Audio**: Stereo speakers (top and bottom)
– **Accessories**: Apple Pencil Pro & Apple Pencil USB-C support

The transition to the A17 Pro chip has greatly enhanced performance, offering improved efficiency along with support for the latest iPadOS updates. This advancement has positioned the iPad mini 7 as a dependable tool for a variety of tasks.

## Design

The iPad mini 7’s design prioritizes portability and comfort. Its compact dimensions allow it to seamlessly fit into bags, purses, and even certain pockets, offering ease of access for users on the move. The device is comfortable to hold in either portrait or landscape modes, resembling a larger, sturdier iPhone.

A noteworthy design aspect is the volume rocker, which adjusts its orientation based on how the device is held. While Touch ID operates effectively, some might prefer Face ID for its greater convenience. Generally, the design stays true to Apple’s industrial design ethos, though there are aspirations for slimmer bezels in upcoming models.

## Everyday Use and Performance

The iPad mini 7 has showcased its reliability for a variety of daily tasks. Its performance remains robust, with quick responsiveness and impressive battery longevity. The display, while not as sophisticated as Pro models, still offers a pleasing viewing experience for the majority of users.

### 1. Casual Use

In terms of casual usage, the iPad mini 7 shines in content consumption. Whether it’s for streaming shows, watching movies, or scrolling through social media, its size makes it effortlessly manageable. Users often favor it over larger devices for its comfortable grip during prolonged viewing sessions.

### 2. Parental Use

As a household device, the iPad mini 7 proves valuable for children’s education. With an abundance of educational games and resources, it encourages interactive learning experiences. The Apple Pencil capability also assists in fostering writing and drawing skills. Furthermore, it can serve as a baby monitor when paired with compatible camera systems.

### 3. Family Home Hub

The iPad mini 7 operates as a hub for controlling smart home gadgets. Its size provides easy access to settings for lights, thermostats, and security cameras, making it a sensible choice for family use.

### 4. Workflow Integration

In professional environments, the iPad mini 7 can be employed for taking notes, editing photos, and even as a primary display during video shoots. The newly introduced windowing system in iPadOS permits multitasking, although some users may find it tricky on the smaller screen.

## iPad Mini 8 Wishlist

Looking to the future, several improvements are desired in the next version of the iPad mini:

– **OLED Display**: For enhanced color precision and contrast.
– **120Hz ProMotion**: To increase display fluidity.
– **Faster USB-C or Thunderbolt**: For speedier file transfers.
– **Face ID**: To simplify unlocking.
– **Smart Connector**: For accessory compatibility and charging options.

## Final Thoughts

After a year of experience, the iPad mini 7 has proven to be an indispensable device for a wide range of users, from casual consumers to families and professionals. Its versatility and user-friendliness make it a notable option within Apple’s offerings. Priced at $499, it frequently undergoes discounts, making it a compelling choice for those in search of a dependable tablet experience.

For those keen on discovering the iPad mini 7’s features, be sure to watch video reviews that highlight its various applications.

Upcoming Apple Launches for November 2023

October is nearing its end, and all indications suggest that Apple is set to unveil new hardware and software in November. Here’s what to anticipate.

## iOS 26.1 and additional software updates

Apple is likely to roll out its next significant batch of software updates within the upcoming week.

iOS 26.1 includes a wealth of new functionalities, such as:

iPadOS 26.1 also reintroduces Slide Over as a partner to the current windowing system. This feature allows you to select an app to hover over other windows, providing a fresh multitasking method that complements the robust enhancements in iPadOS 26.

Most of Apple’s other 26.1 changes are relatively trivial, apart from macOS Tahoe, which presents a similar Liquid Glass ‘Tinted’ option like iOS.

## Three or more new hardware items speculated

Traditionally, Apple usually announces its final major products of the year in October.

This year, we did see the M5 iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, and Vision Pro. However, there are still three more new products rumored for release this year, almost certainly debuting in November.

A new **Apple TV 4K** is expected, featuring an upgraded A17 Pro chip that should support Apple Intelligence. The N1 wireless chip will also be part of the package, and a built-in camera may also be a possibility.

**HomePod mini 2** is likewise rumored to launch alongside the Apple TV. Expect enhanced audio quality, updates to several internal components, and possibly new color options.

**AirTag 2** has been awaited for months but has yet to be released. When it arrives, it’s anticipated to feature an improved Ultra Wideband chip for enhanced Precision Finding, along with better security enhancements.

Apple might also surprise us with a budget-friendly 12.9-inch MacBook just prior to the holiday season, though timing rumors suggest early 2026 is more feasible.

## The initial iOS 26.2 betas

Following its typical routine, Apple is expected to issue the first iOS 26.2 betas soon after the public rollout of iOS 26.1.

This means beta testers may gain access to iOS 26.2 as soon as this coming week.

If not during the upcoming week, the new batch of 26.2 betas should be available by the second week of November.

Apple generally launches its x.2 software in mid-December just before the holiday season. This timeline pressure makes it crucial for Apple to begin the beta testing phase—and it’s already a bit behind, with iOS 26.1 debuting a week later than standard.

## Highly anticipated Pluribus series on Apple TV

Apple TV boasts a varied selection of shows and movies set to premiere in November, all of which can be found here.

The highlight, however, is undoubtedly **Pluribus**, debuting on **Friday, November 7**.

Pluribus is a new sci-fi drama from *Breaking Bad* and *Better Call Saul* creator Vince Gilligan.

Considering Gilligan’s involvement, the intriguing subject matter, and Apple’s enigmatic marketing, Pluribus has risen to the level of one of the platform’s most eagerly awaited launches of the year.

*The New York Times* recently referred to Pluribus as “as significant as modern TV gets,” fueling excitement for a potential Severance-level success for Apple.

What are you most eager to see Apple unveil in November? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple to Reveal Q4 2025 Financial Outcomes Today: How to Tune In Live

As previously stated this month, Apple is set to unveil its Q4 2025 earnings results after the market closes, followed by a conference call at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET. Here’s how you can tune in live.

### Regulation, iPhone Air Performance, and AI Expected to Highlight Today’s Call

When Apple shares its Q4 2025 results today, Wall Street will receive its first look at the performance of the new iPhones, along with insights into how the company has managed Trump’s tariff conflict with China and other significant nations over the past three months.

According to CNBC, Wall Street predicts revenues of $102.24 billion and earnings per share of $1.77. If accurate, this would signify a 7% increase in revenue and a remarkable 82% increase in earnings per share.

Another noteworthy element of today’s earnings results will be the conference call, and whether analysts will succeed in obtaining insights into the performance of the iPhone Air, along with Apple’s increasingly tricky situation in regulatory and AI matters.

The call will be streamed live, and you can access it through this link.

What are your thoughts on Apple’s performance today? Share your opinions in the comments.

Apple Introduces New Design for Apple One Logo

### Apple One Logo Refresh: A Tribute to the Past

Recently, Apple drew attention by revealing a new logo for Apple TV, but it was the understated redesign of the Apple One logo that intrigued many. This modification pays tribute to Apple’s vintage branding era, stirring feelings of nostalgia among longtime enthusiasts of the brand.

#### The Updated Apple TV Branding

Alongside the rebranding of Apple TV+ to just Apple TV, Apple introduced a “dynamic new branding” for its streaming service. This was showcased by a new introductory video featuring a score by FINNEAS. The revamped Apple TV website now highlights this new branding, along with a collection of current and upcoming Apple Originals, including titles like *Slow Horses*, *Down Cemetery Road*, *Severance*, and *Pluribus*.

#### The Apple One Logo Aesthetic

On the Apple TV website, a banner for Apple One displays a refreshed logo design consisting of six stacked colorful sections, reminiscent of the iconic rainbow logo that Apple is renowned for. While the colors do not precisely match the original rainbow spectrum, they correspond with the shades employed in the logos for Apple Music, Apple Fitness+, Apple TV, Apple News+, Apple Arcade, and iCloud+. This design decision suggests a unified branding approach across Apple’s subscription offerings.

#### Current State of the Logo

At this time, it seems that this new logo has not been broadly implemented across other areas of Apple’s website or within the Apple One detail pages. This prompts inquiries regarding whether this is a permanent alteration or simply a conceptual illustration of the Apple One subscription bundle.

#### A Hint of Playfulness

The revised logo design injects a sense of playfulness that some believe has been missing in Apple’s recent branding initiatives. It serves as a reminder of the whimsical spirit that defined Apple’s earlier designs, resonating with both new and devoted customers.

In summary, while the new Apple TV logo has received considerable attention, the redesign of the Apple One logo provides a charming nod to the past, demonstrating Apple’s knack for merging nostalgia with contemporary branding tactics.

Court Document Reveals Payment Information Between Jon Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti

**Michael Ramacciotti Answers Apple’s Lawsuit in the Jon Prosser Matter**

After a series of extensions to deadlines, Michael Ramacciotti has provided his answer to Apple’s lawsuit regarding Jon Prosser’s YouTube recordings that reportedly disclosed confidential information related to Apple’s iOS. This article explores the context of the case, the claims made by Apple, and Ramacciotti’s rebuttal.

### A Brief Background

In July 2025, Apple filed a lawsuit against Jon Prosser, a well-known tech YouTuber, over two videos that disclosed specifics about the company’s Liquid Glass visual redesign. Apple alleges that these leaks were enabled by Michael Ramacciotti, who purportedly accessed a development iPhone owned by Ethan Lipnik, an Apple staff member. The firm contends that Prosser and Ramacciotti colluded to exploit Apple’s confidential data, with Prosser allegedly guaranteeing Ramacciotti compensation for his assistance.

While Ramacciotti requested extensions to reply to the lawsuit, Prosser failed to meet his deadline, leading to the court issuing a default judgment against him at Apple’s behest. In a statement to *The Verge*, Prosser asserted that he had been in touch with Apple throughout the case, notwithstanding the court’s decision.

### Ramacciotti’s Reply

In addressing Apple’s allegations, Ramacciotti refuted most of the assertions made by the tech corporation. He admitted to accessing Lipnik’s iPhone and having a FaceTime conversation with Prosser, during which he displayed certain iOS functionalities. Nonetheless, he categorically denied any suggestion of having colluded with Prosser, asserting that he did not organize or take part in any plot to leak information.

Ramacciotti’s response contained a significant acknowledgment: he received $650 from Prosser following the FaceTime call, but he stressed that there was no prior understanding regarding payment in return for information. His legal document read:

> “Defendant admits that he accessed Lipnik’s Apple Development iPhone and conducted a FaceTime call with Prosser and Prosser asked Defendant to show certain iOS features, but denies that he planned or participated in any conspiracy or coordinated scheme with Prosser to do so.”

Furthermore, Ramacciotti indicated that he was not aware that Prosser was recording their FaceTime discussion and did not fully recognize the sensitivity of the information being disclosed, particularly since Lipnik had previously shown him the new iOS features.

Curiously, throughout his reply, Ramacciotti referred to Prosser as the “defaulted defendant Jon Prosser,” seemingly trying to separate himself from Prosser despite their co-defendant status in the lawsuit.

For those interested, Ramacciotti’s full response can be viewed

Filtraciones del Diseño del iPhone 18 Pro, Nuevas Aplicaciones de Apple y Otras Actualizaciones

### Apple Product Speculations: A Weekly Summary

In the current installment of the Rumor Replay section on *9to5Mac*, we explore the latest conjectures regarding Apple’s forthcoming products. This week’s conversations focus on new “pro” iPad applications, design and camera speculations for the iPhone 18 Pro, and expected enhancements for various Apple devices.

#### Apple’s Upcoming “Pro” iPad Applications

Recent discoveries by *MacRumors* writer Aaron Perris indicate that Apple is preparing to unveil iPad versions of four professional applications that are presently exclusive to Mac. The identified applications are:

– Pixelmator Pro
– MainStage
– Motion
– Compressor

Support for these advancements originates from newly uncovered App Store IDs, suggesting a potential introduction is imminent. While Pixelmator Pro seems to be a prime candidate for an iPad version, the other three applications are generally used as companion tools for Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro. This opens up questions as to whether Apple will launch them as independent applications or integrate their functionalities into the current iPad editions of Final Cut and Logic.

#### iPhone 18 Pro Design and Camera Speculations

Informant Digital Chat Station has disclosed that the iPhone 18 Pro will retain the same full-width camera plateau design seen in the iPhone 17 Pro. There might be minor alterations to the glass cutout on the back, but the overall design will remain unchanged.

Moreover, reports suggest that a variable aperture lens system is expected to launch, especially on the iPhone 18 Pro Max, though some sources imply it could also be featured on the regular iPhone 18 Pro. This functionality could improve photographic skills, but its precise influence is still unclear.

#### OLED Display Enhancements Arriving for Multiple Devices

Mark Gurman has shared that OLED displays are poised to make their way into various upcoming Apple products, including:

– iPad mini
– MacBook Air
– iPad Air

The iPad mini is predicted to be the first to receive this enhancement, with a launch anticipated in 2026. The MacBook Air and iPad Air are expected to follow suit, with releases forecasted for 2028 and 2027, respectively. The potential price increase for the iPad mini, already retailing at $499, raises questions about its market feasibility, especially with the expected launch of foldable iPhones.

#### M6 iPad Pro Will Incorporate Vapor Chamber Cooling

In a recent newsletter, Mark Gurman revealed that the next iPad Pro, featuring the M6 chip, will include a vapor chamber cooling system. This technology, which first appeared in the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, is designed to handle heat more efficiently, particularly as devices grow in power and require better performance management. The M6 iPad Pro is anticipated to be released in early 2027.

#### iPhone 20 to Remove Physical Buttons

Leaker Instant Digital has indicated that the iPhone 20, scheduled for release in 2027, will completely eliminate mechanical buttons in favor of solid-state buttons with haptic feedback. This shift, long speculated, could represent a significant design change for Apple, especially for a landmark product such as the 20th anniversary iPhone.

### Conclusion

As Apple continues to push the envelope, these rumors offer a peek into the company’s upcoming product range. From new iPad applications to major design alterations in the iPhone, the tech community is keenly awaiting how these new developments will manifest. What are your opinions on this week’s rumors?