Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

### Optimizing Audiobook Production with AudioBo

Audiobooks have surged in popularity, offering a convenient method to savor literature while on the move. For passionate listeners, the management and creation of audiobooks can pose challenges, particularly when navigating various audio formats and metadata. AudioBo, a dedicated macOS application, alleviates these issues by simplifying the conversion of audio files into compliant M4B audiobooks.

#### The Demand for a Specialized Audiobook Application

As a dedicated audiobook lover with extensive experience, I have investigated multiple ways to create and curate audiobooks. While MP3 files work well for music, they frequently prove inadequate for audiobooks. Problems such as lacking chapter support, unreliable bookmarks, and unpredictable resume functionality can disrupt the listening experience. Numerous existing applications for converting audio files into audiobooks fail to efficiently import metadata, which is essential for organizing and enriching the audiobook journey.

#### Presenting AudioBo

AudioBo seeks to bridge this gap by offering a streamlined approach to transforming audio files into M4B format. Users can effortlessly drag and drop MP3, FLAC, or WAV files, and the application automatically optimizes for quality while managing file size. AudioBo generates compliant M4B files that integrate smoothly with widely-used applications like Apple Books and Prologue.

#### Primary Features of AudioBo

1. **Metadata Import Capability**: A notable aspect of AudioBo is its ability to import metadata from platforms like Audible, Apple Books, and Google Books. This feature enables users to automatically fill in cover art, book details, and chapter titles with a single click, saving both time and effort.

2. **Batch Chapter Refinement**: AudioBo comes with a robust batch chapter cleanup tool that allows users to standardize titles, rearrange tracks, and eliminate unwanted entries without the need for manual editing of each track. This function is especially beneficial for larger audiobook projects.

3. **Maintaining Audio Integrity**: When updating existing M4B files, AudioBo avoids unnecessary re-encoding. If users wish to modify cover art or correct a title error, the app can retain the original audio stream, ensuring no loss in quality and conserving time.

4. **Intuitive User Interface**: The application boasts a user-friendly interface, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned users. The process of creating audiobooks becomes straightforward and effective.

#### Final Thoughts

After thorough evaluation, AudioBo has demonstrated to be a dependable and efficient tool for crafting audiobooks on macOS. Its blend of metadata importing, batch processing, and quality preservation renders it my top choice for audiobook production. AudioBo is available for a one-time fee of $9.99 on the Mac App Store, with a complimentary demo accessible on the developer’s website, allowing users to test its capabilities prior to purchase.

For audiobook aficionados seeking to elevate their listening experience and enhance their audiobook management, AudioBo represents a transformative solution.

### Strengthening Mac Security: Apple’s Updated Terminal Alerts in macOS 26.4

With the recent launch of macOS 26.4, Apple has rolled out an important security feature designed to shield users from harmful code execution through the Terminal. This update responds to the progressively sophisticated tactics employed by cybercriminals, who increasingly utilize social engineering to circumvent conventional security protocols.

#### The Growth of Terminal-Centric Attacks

In 2023, coinciding with the release of macOS Sonoma, Apple enhanced its security architecture by tightening Gatekeeper’s restrictions, its native malware defense system. This modification complicated malware attempts to evade security measures by prohibiting users from opening unsigned applications via simple right-click actions. As a result, cybercriminals shifted strategies: persuading users to run malicious commands directly in the Terminal.

Such attacks generally include users downloading harmful applications from misleading websites and being directed to copy and paste commands into the Terminal. This technique effectively bypasses built-in security layers, as macOS registers the action as a legitimate user command. The system fails to differentiate between a user-initiated action and malicious intent, rendering it a powerful vector for malware distribution.

#### Apple’s Initiative: Terminal Command Alerts

To counter this escalating threat, macOS 26.4 presents a preventive alert system that notifies users when they attempt to paste potentially hazardous commands into the Terminal. If the system identifies suspicious content, it will prompt the user prior to executing the command, allowing an opportunity to reconsider the action. This seemingly minor yet significant adjustment is especially advantageous for less tech-savvy individuals who might accidentally follow harmful directives.

The introduction of this feature highlights Apple’s dedication to improving user security. By incorporating an extra layer of scrutiny for Terminal commands, Apple seeks to reduce the risks tied to social engineering attacks that manipulate user behavior.

#### Consequences for Users and Cybersecurity

The rollout of Terminal command alerts represents a vital measure in tackling the vulnerabilities that have surfaced as cybercriminals adapt to security improvements. It serves as a reminder that user vigilance and caution are essential components of cybersecurity. While technical defenses are crucial, educating users about the dangers of executing commands from unverified sources is similarly vital.

As cyber threats evolve, Apple’s proactive strategies demonstrate a continuous effort to protect its users from progressively intricate attack methodologies. The newly implemented warning feature in macOS 26.4 exemplifies the significance of user-focused security advancements in the battle against cybercrime.

#### Conclusion

The latest update to macOS not only fortifies the operating system’s protections but also enables users to make well-informed choices regarding their actions in the Terminal. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, Apple’s emphasis on user education and proactive security strategies will be essential in preserving the integrity and security of its ecosystem.

# The BenQ MA Series: Monitors Featuring Apple-Like Calibration

A standout aspect of MacBooks is the meticulous attention Apple pays to color calibration. This is fantastic when utilizing your MacBook, but discrepancies can arise when connected to an external monitor, where one might observe significantly different colors. Most monitor brands do not calibrate their colors in the same meticulous manner as Apple. Nonetheless, BenQ has combated this issue with its latest MA series monitors.

## The BenQ MA Series, Offering Apple-Like Calibration

MacBook screens are compatible with the P3 standard, which features an expansive color gamut. While locating a monitor with P3 support is relatively easy these days, Apple enhances this by fine-tuning each MacBook display to guarantee total consistency within and between models.

When developing its MA Series monitors, BenQ aimed to replicate the appearance of your MacBook display as closely as possible. The company’s **Mac Color-Tuning Technology** accomplishes this, ensuring consistent colors. Furthermore, BenQ’s provided Mac software enables brightness adjustments across several displays, automatically aligning them for a uniform viewing experience.

For those requiring even more advanced calibration, BenQ’s PD models present enhanced features.

## An Integrated Powerful Mac Hub as Well

BenQ’s MA series monitors serve as a robust hub for Mac users. A single-cable connection to your MacBook delivers both a monitor signal and a 90W charger, in addition to two HDMI ports and a secondary USB-C port for charging and linking other Apple devices.

## Excellent Ergonomics

The monitors are crafted with ergonomic considerations, providing extensive adjustability to ensure user comfort.

## Win a MA270UP 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor for MacBook

To discover more about the BenQ MA Series for MacBook, as well as the full array of monitors available for designers, photographers, and other discerning users, please review the provided links.

You can also **join our contest** to win an [MA270UP 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor for MacBook](https://benqurl.biz/3WZyqpL). Complete terms and conditions are accessible below.

*Competition eligibility: NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN IN THIS GIVEAWAY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Participants must be 18 years of age or older and reside in the continental United States, Hawaii, and Alaska. Employees of BenQ and their immediate families are not eligible to participate in this Giveaway. The Giveaway is void where restricted or prohibited by law.*

# Yogi Breath: An Inclusive Guided Breathwork Application

Welcome to the Indie App Spotlight, a weekly feature by 9to5Mac that showcases the latest advancements in the indie app scene. This week, we shine a light on Yogi Breath, an application created to elevate your meditation journey through guided breathwork.

## Highlights

Yogi Breath distinguishes itself in a saturated field of breathwork apps by targeting novices specifically. The app offers six levels of progression: Newbie, Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Expert, and Yogi. This organized framework ensures that users can identify their level in the breathwork journey, irrespective of their previous experience.

In our fast-moving society, dedicating time to meditate can greatly alleviate stress and enhance overall wellness. The guided breathing techniques provided by Yogi Breath serve as an effective approach to achieve these advantages.

### Key Features

Yogi Breath encompasses several features designed to assist users in remaining dedicated to their breathwork practice:

– **Location-Based Notifications**: The app can deliver reminders based on your location. For example, if you’re about to join a meeting, Yogi Breath will encourage you to pause and breathe.

– **Streak Monitoring**: Users can monitor their advancement and sustain motivation through streaks, promoting regular practice.

– **Game Center Integration**: This function enables users to measure their progress against that of others, nurturing a sense of community and friendly rivalry.

Moreover, Yogi Breath provides background audio tracks during exercises and the option to formulate custom exercise routines suited to personal preferences.

## Download the App

Yogi Breath is accessible for free on the App Store for devices operating on iOS 16.6 and later, offering most essential features. For those who wish to access all 42 techniques, location-based reminders, and extra audio tracks, Yogi Pro is available for $4.99 monthly, $29.99 annually, or a one-time fee of $59.99 for lifetime access. Currently, there is a special promotion allowing users to enjoy the first year of Yogi Pro for merely $9.99.

Integrating Yogi Breath into your daily regimen can be a significant step toward a more mindful and balanced existence.

Apple introduced the [MacBook Neo](https://amzn.to/4lWdfR1) earlier this month, which considerably changes the MacBook range. For those who have previously acquired a [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) and do not need 16GB of RAM for demanding multitasking, the MacBook Neo offers an attractive option.

The [MacBook Neo](https://amzn.to/4lWdfR1) acts as a robust all-purpose laptop, similar to the [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy). It includes upgrades such as enhanced RAM, a quicker processor (though thermally restricted), and a larger display. In comparison, the MacBook Air seems to lack noteworthy advantages at this point. Here are a few proposed enhancements for the MacBook Air.

### Improved Display

Speculation indicates that the [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) will switch to OLED technology in 2028, two years after the [MacBook Pro](https://amzn.to/4bTzthI). This transition would represent the fifth key Apple product to embrace OLED, joining the iPhone, iPad Pro, the soon-to-be-released iPad mini, and the newly designed MacBook Pro.

While the MacBook Air is projected to adopt OLED, it is unlikely to feature touch capability. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has yet to make a decision regarding touch functionality for any Macs apart from the MacBook Pro. Although the MacBook Air seems a more sensible candidate for such features, it is not expected to receive an iPhone-esque OLED screen for at least another two years.

Nonetheless, the OLED enhancement would greatly advance the MacBook Air, positioning it ahead of the MacBook Neo. There is also speculation about whether the display will include a 120Hz refresh rate, which could improve the user experience without compromising the MacBook Pro’s standing in the market.

### Enhanced Thermals

The [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) currently functions as a passively cooled unit, a design that is expected to remain consistent. However, there are various methods Apple could implement to boost performance without adding a fan. For example, the iPad Pro utilizes graphite sheets and a copper heatsink to manage heat, while the iPhone 17 Pro features a vapor chamber. Applying similar thermal management techniques in the MacBook Air could significantly enhance its performance.

### Revamped Design

The [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) might gain from a more innovative design strategy. As it evolves beyond being Apple’s budget Mac, there exists an opportunity for the company to push boundaries. A sleeker, more portable, and unconventional design could attract users looking for something reminiscent of the 12-inch MacBook. A starting price of $1299 could enable the MacBook Air to redefine the limits of laptop design.

What features would you like to see in the [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy)? Share your opinions in the comments.

**Safeguarding Your Personal Information During Tax Season: The Dangers of Data Brokers and How to Address Them**

As tax season nears, the likelihood of becoming a target for spammers and scammers rises significantly. With personal information becoming increasingly available, individuals must remain alert to protect their data. Data brokers play a vital role in this scenario, as they gather and sell personal data, facilitating identity theft and fraud for criminals.

### The Function of Data Brokers

Data brokers are firms that gather personal data from multiple sources, such as public records, social media, and online purchases. They then bundle this data and sell it to marketers, businesses, and sometimes even malicious individuals. A straightforward name search can reveal a trove of personal information, including your address, phone number, age, employment background, and family relationships. This data can be misused for fraudulent purposes, particularly during tax season when financial information is highly sensitive.

Despite ongoing debates regarding the regulation of data broking activities, this sector remains mostly unregulated. Individuals often unknowingly allow their data to be shared when they accept ambiguous terms and conditions while using websites or applications. Expressions like “sharing data with partners” frequently mean selling information to data brokers, who subsequently distribute it further.

### The Difficulty of Opting Out

While legislation exists that permits individuals to opt-out of data collection, the procedure is often cumbersome and labor-intensive. Pinpointing all the companies that possess your data and submitting requests for removal can be an overwhelming endeavor. Even if you successfully eliminate your information, data brokers regularly reinsert it, and new brokers keep cropping up.

### A Solution: Incogni’s Data-Deletion Service

To ease the task of safeguarding your personal information, consider utilizing a data-deletion service like Incogni. This service alleviates your burden by reaching out to over 250 data brokers and people search websites on your behalf. Incogni submits removal requests for your personal data, utilizing the pertinent laws in your country, whether you are in the US, Canada, UK, EU, or Switzerland.

Incogni additionally carries out continuous scans to identify new uploads of your personal data and issues takedown requests as necessary. If a broker asserts they have a valid reason to keep your data, Incogni streamlines the appeals process, prioritizing your privacy.

### Exclusive Offer for 9to5Mac Readers

For those keen on preserving their privacy, 9to5Mac readers can enjoy a special offer: a 58% discount on a one-year subscription to Incogni. This plan enables users to safeguard not just their own data but also that of up to four family members. Subscribers can incorporate multiple phone numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses into their plan.

Moreover, Incogni provides an Unlimited plan, which allows users to request custom removals from any website that reveals their personal data (excluding social media platforms, government records, blogs, and forums). Dedicated privacy agents manage the removal process, offering a thorough solution for data privacy.

To redeem the discount, readers can use a special link or enter the promo code 9TO5MAC at checkout.

### Final Thoughts

As tax season looms, the significance of protecting your personal information cannot be underestimated. With the prevalence of data brokers and their ease of access to your data, employing a service like Incogni can offer reassurance. By delegating the arduous task of data removal, you can concentrate on what truly matters while ensuring your personal information stays safe.

# Spring Apple Promotions: Must-Grab Discounts on Favored Products

As we move forward in the Amazon Big Spring Sale, fans of Apple are in for a delightful surprise with multiple discounts on some of the most desired items. Currently on Day 4, this sale includes substantial price cuts on AirPods, MacBooks, iPads, and additional products, providing a fantastic opportunity for buyers to elevate their technology.

## AirPods

Current offers on AirPods feature:

– **AirPods Max 2**: For the first time, these high-end headphones are available with a cash discount, plus trade-in options for those wanting to upgrade.
– **AirPods Pro 3**: These are also available at holiday prices, making them a tempting choice for anyone seeking premium audio in a compact form.

## M5 MacBook Air

The M5 MacBook Air collection is seeing significant reductions:

– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB**: Now **$1,049** (Was $1,099)
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: Now **$1,249** (Was $1,299)
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 24GB/1TB**: Now **$1,415** (Was $1,499)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB**: Now **$1,249** (Was $1,299)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: Now **$1,449** (Was $1,499)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 24GB/1TB**: Now **$1,650** (Was $1,699)

## M5 MacBook Pro

For those desiring more power, the M5 MacBook Pro range is also discounted:

– **14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: Now **$2,149** (Was $2,199)
– **14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/2TB**: Now **$2,549** (Was $2,599)
– **14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/2TB | 20-Core**: Now **$2,749** (Was $2,799)
– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/2TB**: Now **$2,649** (Was $2,699)
– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 48GB/2TB**: Now **$3,049** (Was $3,099)

## iPads

The iPad selection is also experiencing price reductions:

– **M4 iPad Air**: Discounts available for both the 11-inch and 13-inch variants.
– **M3 iPad Air**: Competitive pricing for those seeking a dependable tablet experience.
– **iPad 11**: Deals available for this adaptable device.
– **iPad mini**: Now with lowered prices, making it an ideal option for portability.

## Conclusion

The Amazon Big Spring Sale presents an outstanding chance for Apple enthusiasts to grab the latest technology at discounted prices. With reductions on AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads, buyers can enrich their tech inventory without overspending. Make sure to check the promotions before they end, as these prices are subject to modification.

### The Progression of Internet Connectivity Solutions for Businesses

In the current digital environment, dependable internet connectivity is crucial for various industries, including businesses, K-12 education, and healthcare. As organizations progressively rely on internet access for everyday functions, the demand for solid backup solutions has become clear. Recent advancements, such as Eero’s 4G LTE backup device and the new capabilities of Starlink, are transforming how businesses handle internet redundancy and disaster recovery.

#### Eero’s 4G LTE Backup Device

Eero has launched the Eero Signal, a 4G LTE backup device crafted to work harmoniously with current Eero routers. This device guarantees that homes and small enterprises stay connected during outages from internet service providers (ISPs). The Eero Signal is particularly advantageous for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that need reliable internet access without the complications typically tied to larger enterprise systems. With an Eero Plus subscription, users are granted 10GB of bandwidth annually, with options to upgrade to 100GB, making it a versatile solution for diverse requirements.

#### The Drawbacks of Conventional Failover Solutions

Traditionally, businesses have depended on a dual-ISP setup for disaster recovery, employing a primary fiber connection and a secondary backup from another provider. While this approach seems logical in principle, it frequently falls short in practice. Both ISPs might utilize the same infrastructure, resulting in vulnerabilities. For example, if a construction incident cuts a fiber line, both the primary and backup connections could be lost at the same time, leaving organizations without internet access when it is most crucial.

#### Starlink: A Revolutionary Option for Disaster Recovery

Starlink, a satellite internet service, offers a groundbreaking alternative for disaster recovery. With its capability to deliver internet access straight from satellites, Starlink does not rely on local ground infrastructure, which can be prone to outages. This attribute is especially beneficial for essential sectors like healthcare and education, where uninterrupted access to cloud-based services is vital. Starlink’s increasing affordability and enhanced speeds (currently exceeding 400 Mbps, with plans for gigabit service by 2026) establish it as a dependable backup solution that can uphold critical operations during ISP outages.

#### Prospects for Firewall Manufacturers

The incorporation of Starlink into business networks creates substantial opportunities for firewall manufacturers. By establishing native support for Starlink within their devices, these manufacturers can simplify the failover procedure. Envision a firewall that automatically detects a connected Starlink dish and configures itself to channel critical traffic through the satellite link when the primary connection goes down. This effortless integration would remove manual configuration challenges and position Starlink failover as a standard feature in business implementations.

#### Conclusion

As organizations persist in navigating the challenges of ensuring robust internet connectivity, innovative solutions like Eero and Starlink are shaping more resilient infrastructures. The potential for improved disaster recovery strategies, especially through the integration of satellite technology, signifies a notable change in how businesses regard internet redundancy. With appropriate tools and technologies, enterprises can guarantee that they remain connected, even amidst unexpected obstacles.

### Apple Phases Out the Mac Pro: Essential Information

In light of its recent decision to phase out the Mac Pro, Apple continues to provide a limited selection of units via its Certified Refurbished store. This article outlines the current status and the options available for those looking to buy a Mac Pro.

#### Announcement of Discontinuation

Earlier this week, Apple verified to 9to5Mac that the Mac Pro will be phased out. Although the timing of this news caught many off guard, the decision itself had been expected by a lot of observers. After the introduction of the M2 Ultra Mac Pro in June 2023, there were no updates or changes, prompting speculation that Apple might introduce the Mac Studio in its place.

#### Availability Status

In wake of the discontinuation notice, Apple took the Mac Pro off its primary website and store. Nevertheless, there are still over 20 units available in its Certified Refurbished store. These units are available in both rack and desktop versions, with prices starting at $6,289 for a configuration with a 24-core CPU and 60-core GPU, and going up to $10,029 for a premium model equipped with a 24-core CPU and 76-core GPU (USB-C).

#### Buying Choices

Customers looking to purchase a Mac Pro from the Certified Refurbished store can select to add AppleCare+ and AppleCare One coverage during the checkout process. Furthermore, all purchases include Apple’s one-year limited warranty, along with complimentary delivery and returns.

For those interested in viewing the available Mac Pro options, you can navigate to the [Apple Certified Refurbished store](https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/mac/mac-pro).

#### Final Thoughts

While the discontinuation of the Mac Pro signifies the close of a chapter for this robust workstation, Apple’s Certified Refurbished store still offers a chance for users needing high-performance computing. Whether you’re a creative professional or a power user, the remaining Mac Pro units might still fulfill your requirements.

**Jeff: Director of Video Content Production at 9to5Mac**

Jeff has made his mark as a key player in the technology media arena as the director of video content production for 9to5Mac. His tenure with the organization started in 2016, where he rapidly distinguished himself by producing a wide array of video content, including walkthroughs, tutorials, written guides, and product assessments.

A significant asset Jeff possesses is his knack for distilling complex subjects. He takes pride in translating intricate technological ideas into straightforward, brief explanations that can be easily understood by a large audience. This talent has resonated with viewers, resulting in his videos accumulating hundreds of millions of views. His captivating presentation manner and comprehensive grasp of technology render him a reliable resource for those seeking to improve their understanding of the newest gadgets and software.

At 9to5Mac, Jeff is integral to developing the video content strategy, making sure it aligns with the desires and interests of tech aficionados. His dedication to excellence and lucidity has not only propelled the channel’s growth but also cultivated a community of engaged viewers keen to explore the constantly changing landscape of technology.

For those looking to stay updated with the newest trends and insights in tech, subscribing to 9to5Mac on YouTube is essential. Jeff’s recent videos promise to provide valuable insights and practical guidance, making technology more approachable for all.