Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

If you’re aiming to start the new year with a new MacBook, this is an excellent moment to purchase. Recently, Macs have become increasingly budget-friendly – primarily due to Apple’s shift to Apple Silicon. These MacBooks are also better equipped than ever.

Apple’s newest macOS Tahoe update has also terminated support for nearly all Intel Macs (with a few minor exceptions). If you wish to remain on the most current Apple software, now is an ideal time to upgrade.

### M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple unveiled the revamped MacBook Air with a sleeker design, a larger display with narrower bezels, and brought back MagSafe. It is also available in new Starlight and Midnight hues alongside Silver and Space Gray, while Gold is no longer an option. This innovative design was launched with the M2 chip and has persisted since.

**15-inch models with M3 chip:**
– 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$1099 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/489Yepa) ($600 off!)

The 15-inch variant is a fantastic choice if you’re seeking greater unified memory than most individuals, which can be significantly beneficial for multitasking. Conversely, the 13-inch model is a great pick if you want something newer than an M1 MacBook Air while staying closer to a $600 budget.

### M4 MacBook Air

Last March, Apple revealed a refreshed MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip. This device closely resembles its predecessor, with a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color replacing Space Gray.

Currently, you can find a $200 discount on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is said to be developing a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip expected to launch within the next year or so – but at these prices, I would honestly opt for the MacBook Air without worrying about any compromises.

**13-inch models with M4 chip:**
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$799 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9)
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$999 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4o0M7jn)
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$1199 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3KyKcEp)

**15-inch models with M4 chip:**
– 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$999 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4i8YJ4T)
– 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$1199 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4nV3KSp)
– 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$1399 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4i2wTHe)

### M4 MacBook Pro

Apple revamped the MacBook Pro in 2021, introducing a completely new miniLED display with ProMotion, additional ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as larger batteries and enhanced thermal efficiency. It also featured a 1080p webcam for the first time.

While the MacBook Pro is not as affordable as the MacBook Airs mentioned, if you desire that exceptional display and the additional ports, there are still some impressive deals available. All models listed below are equipped with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, delivering the highest performance in a MacBook Pro. If you’re looking for base level silicon, you’ll need to purchase an M5 model.

**14-inch models:**
– M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$1749 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/4ckNjcZ) ($250 off!)
– M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$2099 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/4pbAMhS)

### M5 MacBook Pro

In October, Apple introduced the new 14-inch MacBook Pro featuring the M5 chip. However, in a break from tradition – it was only released with the base M5. If you’re seeking more power, or a 16-inch model, you’ll need to go for an M4 Pro or M4 Max chip.

M5 is approximately 15% quicker overall compared to the M4. In comparison to M4 Pro, M5 is about 10% slower.

This year, Apple is expected to update most of its iPad collection. The company initiated a new iPad generation with the debut of the M5 iPad Pro in October, and every other iPad in the series will follow suit later this year. These are the latest speculations.

## M4 iPad Air

The first significant iPad release of the year will likely be the upcoming iPad Air model, possibly arriving in March. This will incorporate the M4 chip into the iPad Air, offering another 10-20% increase in performance compared to the M3 chip.

With the launch of the N1 chip and the C1X modem in the M5 iPad Pro, it’s likely that the forthcoming iPad Air will also transition to Apple’s proprietary modem and networking chips. This will facilitate quicker cellular connectivity and support for Wi-Fi 7.

Aside from internal chip advancements, there aren’t many evident enhancements for the M4 iPad Air. Possible but unconfirmed updates could include a 600 nit display (which is currently exclusive to the 13-inch model) and new color variations. A 90 or 120Hz screen would also be a welcome feature.

While OLED has been anticipated for the iPad Air, it most likely won’t debut until 2027 or beyond.

## A19 iPad

Following that, the budget iPad, priced at $349 but frequently available for $299 during sales, is rumored to receive the A19 chip. This enhancement is more than just a specification upgrade, as it will introduce Apple Intelligence capabilities to the budget iPad for the first time.

Like the iPad Air, the budget iPad is also likely to adopt Apple’s proprietary N1 chip and C1X modem.

Personally, I’d really like to see a proper keyboard for the budget iPad, something akin to the Magic Keyboard available for iPad Air and iPad Pro. As it stands, the budget iPad is limited to the Magic Keyboard Folio, which only allows for use on a table, as it requires a kickstand for support.

The iPad is expected to receive the A19 chip sometime in the first half of 2026.

## A19 Pro iPad mini

Lastly, the iPad mini is poised for its first refresh since 2024. This update will likely bring the A19 Pro chip, but it will also present a much larger upgrade… OLED.

This upgrade is anticipated to occur later this year; however, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is focusing on the iPad mini to be its next significant product to transition. Apple first introduced OLED to the iPad Pro back in early 2024 with the M4 model, having initially brought it to the iPhone lineup beginning in 2017.

In addition to the OLED and A19 Pro chip, the next iPad mini is reportedly going to incorporate a more water-resistant design, according to Bloomberg.

The iPad mini has not undergone a significant redesign since 2021. Based on these rumors, it appears that Apple has significant plans for the 5-year anniversary of that initial redesign.

## Wrap up

Overall, it’s a relatively quiet year for iPad, excluding the iPad mini.

Looking ahead, Apple intends to integrate a vapor chamber cooling system into the M6 iPad Pro, which is set to launch in early 2027. However, that’s somewhat outside the range of this discussion.

If none of these updates pique your interest and you’re satisfied with the current iPad models, there are currently discounts on the current generation iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro ranging from $50-100 off.

# Indie App Spotlight: Backlot – Your Premier Movie Companion

In the ever-growing realm of streaming platforms, figuring out what to watch can often seem daunting. Enter **Backlot**, an inventive app crafted to enhance your viewing journey by merging discovery, watchlists, and streaming data into one ad-free hub.

## Key Features of Backlot

### Discover Feed
At the core of Backlot is its **Discover feed**, which highlights trending films, TV series, and actors. This feature removes the inconvenience of toggling between various streaming services, allowing users to delve into content within a singular interface.

### Universal Search
Backlot also boasts a **universal search** capability, empowering users to locate specific shows and find out where they are available for streaming. This is especially handy given the constant shifts in streaming rights and accessibility.

### Watchlists
Users can curate tailored **watchlists** to bookmark content they intend to watch later. This list syncs effortlessly across all iCloud devices, ensuring that your viewing aspirations are always within reach.

### Reaction Notes
For those who relish reviewing or discussing shows, Backlot provides a feature to record reactions and notes directly within the app. This can be tremendously useful for reviewers and podcasters wanting to capture their insights promptly.

## Download the App
Backlot is accessible for free on the App Store, offering users fundamental features like the Discover feed. For those desiring the complete experience, **Backlot Pro** can be acquired for $2.99 per month, $19.99 per year, or a one-time payment of $75 for lifetime access. The app is compatible with both iPhone and iPad.

In a landscape where streaming alternatives are plentiful yet disorganized, Backlot emerges as a holistic solution for movie and TV show aficionados, simplifying the process of finding and enjoying your next favorite title.

**The Prospects of Apple Card: A Synopsis of Goldman Sachs’ Obstacles and Possible Modifications**

Since its introduction more than six years ago, Apple Card has encountered considerable difficulties for its partner bank, Goldman Sachs. As reports indicate that Goldman Sachs is contemplating an exit from the collaboration, the future of Apple Card hangs in the balance. This article summarizes the current landscape surrounding Apple Card, the financial setbacks faced by Goldman Sachs, and the prospects for a new partner.

### Goldman Sachs Financial Setbacks

Goldman Sachs is reportedly aiming to divest its Apple Card partnership, with JPMorgan Chase positioned as the primary candidate for acquisition. Other potential players, including American Express, Capital One, and Synchrony, have been noted, yet their chances of assuming control seem minimal. American Express CEO Stephen Squeri has conveyed hesitation regarding the partnership, pointing out that the existing customer demographic includes a substantial proportion of subprime borrowers.

So far, the Apple Card partnership has set Goldman Sachs back by at least $1 billion, contributing to overall consumer product losses nearing $6 billion. These setbacks are attributed not only to credit delinquencies but also to the appealing features of the Apple Card, which include no foreign transaction fees, no late fees, up to 3% cash back on partner merchants, and 0% APR financing on Apple products.

### JPMorgan Chase Acquisition

At present, JPMorgan Chase is viewed as the “preferred option” for acquiring the Apple Card partnership. However, a formal agreement has yet to be finalized. One of the main obstacles for any prospective new lender is the elevated percentage of subprime customers linked to Apple Card. The subprime rate for Chase is approximately 15%, whereas Capital One’s stands at about 31%. In contrast, Apple Card’s subprime rate is 34%, indicating a significant risk for any financial entity contemplating the partnership.

Moreover, Apple Card’s delinquency rate is around 4%, surpassing the industry average of 3.05%. For a transaction to occur, a new lender would likely need to negotiate a “substantial discount” given the current liabilities of over $20 billion.

### Apple Card Savings Account

Another facet of the conversation is the Apple Card Savings Account, which is also backed by Goldman Sachs. Although it necessitates customers to possess an Apple Card, it lacks a strong affiliation with the card itself. Customers can choose to have their Apple Card cash back directed into the savings account, but aside from that, the two offerings are not significantly linked.

Currently, Goldman Sachs continues to provide its Marcus by Goldman Sachs savings account to consumers, despite a wider withdrawal from the consumer finance sector. It is conceivable that Goldman Sachs will retain the savings account even if the credit card partnership shifts to another financial institution.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, it seems highly probable that the Apple Card partnership with Goldman Sachs will come to an end by 2026, following years of discussions with various lenders. Although the precise outcomes for Apple Card remain uncertain, the substantial number of subprime customers and the considerable financial losses indicate that changes are on the horizon. Potential modifications could involve the implementation of late fees and a reduction in the card’s generous benefits.

Should JPMorgan Chase decide against the acquisition, Capital One could emerge as a formidable alternative, especially considering its recent acquisition of Discover, which positions it favorably as both a card issuer and payment network. The future of Apple Card will hinge on how these negotiations progress in the upcoming months.

**The Advancement of Apple IT Management: Findings from the Mac Admin Survey 2026**

As we celebrate the five-year milestone of the inaugural Apple Silicon Mac, the shift to M-series chips has profoundly influenced both Apple and IT teams overseeing Apple hardware. The latest MacPaw Mac Admin Survey for 2026 uncovers significant trends in the IT domain, emphasizing the durability of Macs, the growing dependence on automation, and the incorporation of AI into everyday tasks.

### The Mac’s Longevity is Unprecedented

One of the most notable revelations from the survey is the prolonged lifespan of Macs in business settings. Almost half of those surveyed indicated that their Macs are utilized for three to five years. This durability can be linked to the efficiency of the M1 chip and its successors, which surpass past Intel hardware in terms of performance and resilience. Consequently, IT teams are pivoting their emphasis from frequent replacement cycles to sustaining productivity and reducing downtime. This transformation not only allows companies to use their budgets more strategically but also provides the opportunity to invest in advanced features and management tools.

### Achieving More with Fewer Resources

The survey shows that IT teams face the challenge of managing larger numbers of devices with limited resources. Approximately one-third of Mac administrators stated that they employ AI tools in their workflows, motivated more by necessity than by desire. As the need for support escalates, IT teams are relying on community expertise and automation to fill the resource void. Channels such as the Mac Admins Slack and Apple’s support forums are becoming crucial for troubleshooting and knowledge exchange, as teams adjust to heightened expectations amid constrained staffing.

### Security and Apple Device Management

Security continues to be a top priority for IT teams, with an 8% rise in the number of administrators seeking more straightforward patching and software update processes. As hardware reliability improves, the emphasis shifts toward maintaining a strong software environment. IT teams must navigate the intricacies of remote work, SaaS proliferation, and AI-driven threats while ensuring that Macs stay secure and updated without requiring direct user input.

### Conclusion

The MacPaw survey paints a picture of a swiftly evolving platform where Macs are enduring longer, automation is becoming vital, and AI is gradually becoming part of IT operations. Nonetheless, the issues of workforce shortages and increasing complexities remain, demanding a forward-thinking approach to IT management. As the ecosystem surrounding Apple devices transforms, IT teams must keep adjusting to fulfill the requirements of a dynamic work atmosphere.

For businesses aiming to optimize their Apple device management, Mosyle delivers a comprehensive platform that consolidates all essential solutions for the efficient and cost-effective deployment, management, and protection of Apple devices.

**The Effect of Apple Watch on New Year’s Fitness Goals**

In a recent announcement, Apple shared intriguing information on how the Apple Watch supports users in improving their workout routines during January and maintaining them for the rest of the year. This data comes from the Apple Heart and Movement Study, which included approximately 100,000 participants over four years.

Many people give up on their New Year’s fitness goals by the second Friday of January, a day known as Quitter’s Day. However, Apple Watch users show a considerably greater chance of sticking to their fitness objectives. As reported by Apple, there is a significant trend where the average daily exercise minutes for Apple Watch users not only recover in January after a holiday dip but continue to increase into the spring months.

In the first two weeks of January, more than 60% of Apple Watch users raised their daily exercise minutes by over 10% compared to their December averages. Notably, almost 80% of those who enhanced their exercise levels maintained this improvement through the latter part of January, with 90% of that group keeping elevated activity levels into February and March.

Apple also emphasized new features for Apple Fitness+ designed to encourage consistency in workout habits. These consist of multi-week programs aimed at generating momentum for users at the start of the year. Furthermore, Apple is promoting its annual “Ring in the New Year” challenge, which takes place from January 7 to January 31, urging users to close all three Activity rings for seven consecutive days.

For users utilizing Strava with an Apple Watch, a “Quit Quitting” challenge is also available within the Strava app, designed to keep participants motivated throughout January.

The findings and efforts put forth by Apple highlight the beneficial impact of the Apple Watch and Apple Fitness+ in aiding users to adhere to their New Year’s fitness goals, fostering a healthier lifestyle far beyond the initial weeks of the year.

Apple TV is poised to amplify its content in February with the launch of the film “Eternity,” featuring Elizabeth Olsen. This A24 project hit theaters in late November and has received favorable reviews from both critics and audiences for its captivating narrative and compelling performances.

“Eternity” offers a distinctive concept: in an afterlife where souls have a week to decide their eternal fate, the main character, Joan (portrayed by Olsen), faces the choice between her lifelong companion (Miles Teller) and her first love (Callum Turner), who has been patiently waiting for her for many years. This high-concept romantic comedy is predicted to strike a chord with audiences, especially with its expected release close to Valentine’s Day.

Although Apple TV has yet to specify an exact release date, it has suggested a mid-February launch, coinciding with the winter season. The film was recently featured in a roundup of forthcoming Apple TV content, showcasing the company’s dedication to broadening its cinematic range.

Alongside “Eternity,” Apple TV continues to offer a varied selection of shows and films, including well-known series like “Ted Lasso” and “Severance.” Subscriptions are offered at $12.99 monthly, with options to bundle via Apple One.

As excitement mounts for “Eternity,” viewers are invited to express their enthusiasm and plans to view the film when it debuts on Apple TV.

iOS 26.2 is the newest iPhone software upgrade, bringing various novel features that improve customization and usability. Here’s a summary of the main updates.

## 1: Enhanced Liquid Glass Slider for Lock Screen Clock

The Lock Screen is an essential element of making your iPhone personal. With iOS 26.2, Apple has improved the Liquid Glass aesthetic for the Lock Screen clock. Users can now modify the clock’s opacity with a wider slider, facilitating greater transparency or opacity than previously available. To utilize this feature, make sure your clock is set to the ‘Glass’ option and try out the slider to achieve your preferred appearance. This upgraded slider works with any font choice, although the clock size can only be modified with the default font.

## 2: New Screen Flash for Notifications

iOS 26.2 brings a fresh visual notification feature that complements the existing camera flash alert. Users can now activate a ‘Screen’ option under Settings ⇾ Accessibility ⇾ Audio & Visual ⇾ Flash for Alerts. When enabled, notifications will cause the iPhone’s screen to light up completely for a brief moment, improving visibility for incoming notifications. This feature can be used alongside the camera flash for a more significant notification impact, particularly advantageous for users who may experience hearing challenges.

## 3: Reminders Alarm Options

The Reminders app in iOS 26.2 features a new ‘Urgent’ toggle for time-sensitive reminders. This option allows users to create reminders that trigger an alarm on the Lock Screen when they are due. The alarm offers options to ‘Snooze’ or ‘Stop,’ much like a conventional alarm clock. Users can personalize this behavior in Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Reminders, where they can substitute the ‘Snooze’ option with a ‘Complete’ button. This button not only halts the alarm but also marks the reminder as done, simplifying task management for users who favor immediate action.

These enhancements in iOS 26.2 offer users improved customization opportunities and enhanced accessibility features, tailoring the iPhone experience more closely to individual preferences and requirements.

### Premium AirPods Pro 3 Introducing Cameras for Apple Intelligence Features and More

AirPods Pro 3 debuted merely a few months prior, yet speculations suggest a secondary model is on the horizon this year featuring a significant upgrade: infrared (IR) cameras. This possible enhancement is part of Apple’s aim to incorporate more artificial intelligence functionalities into their devices.

Following mixed first impressions of the AirPods Pro 3, numerous users have shared a favorable experience as they adapt to the fitting and features. The upcoming model promises advancements in sound quality and enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, meeting the desires of many users.

The expected upgrade featuring IR cameras is likely to facilitate an array of new functionalities. Insights indicate that these external cameras, in conjunction with artificial intelligence, will assist users in better comprehending their environment and offering pertinent information. Visual Intelligence is underscored as a fundamental aspect of the camera-integrated AirPods, potentially improving user engagement with their surroundings.

Moreover, there are speculations that the new model might remove the pressure-sensitive buttons on the ear stems in favor of gesture controls, although it is feasible for both features to be present. This modification could be advantageous given the rising number of features that depend on the stem buttons.

In summary, the forthcoming AirPods Pro 3 are expected to largely preserve the design and attributes of the existing model, but they will probably come with a higher price tag. This is consistent with Apple’s strategy of providing various iterations of their products, akin to the AirPods 4, which are available both with and without Active Noise Cancellation.

As the launch of the camera-integrated AirPods Pro 3 draws near, consumer curiosity is likely to intensify. Are you interested in AirPods Pro 3 with cameras? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### M1 MacBook Air Continues to Function Well After Stopping Artillery Fragment

Apple devices are known for their resilience, and the latest proof of this is particularly astonishing. A soldier from Ukraine shared an account of how his M1 MacBook Air intercepted a fragment from an artillery shell while continuing to operate effectively.

#### An Incredible Survival Tale

Most of us are fortunate enough not to find ourselves in situations where artillery shell fragments are zipping through the air. However, a soldier from the Azov Brigade seems to be an exception. He recently shared compelling evidence showcasing the toughness of the MacBook Air design. His M1 MacBook Air blocked a fragment from an artillery shell and remains in remarkable working condition.

You can observe the damage in the post below:

> “@Apple MacBook Air 2020 M1 intercepted a fragment from an artillery shell 🤙” — Лаꑭевич (@lanevychs)

Another post features a video demonstrating macOS running smoothly, despite some apparent display issues.

#### Prior Examples of Resilience

In 2022, images circulated of an iPhone that reportedly protected a Ukrainian soldier from a bullet. While this recent MacBook Air incident may not be as dramatic, it further underscores the high quality of Apple products.

What’s your most unforgettable story about the durability of Apple hardware? Share with us in the comments.