Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

# Enhancing Your Mac Setup: Key Accessories for Improved Productivity

Improving and perfecting your Mac setup can greatly boost your productivity and overall user experience. Whether you’ve just unboxed a new Mac or are eager to upgrade your current setup, there are a variety of accessories that can elevate your workflow. Below are some of the finest accessories that can transform your workspace into a productivity hub.

## Table of Contents
1. Logitech MX Master 4
2. Satechi Desk Mat
3. OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock
4. Satechi USB-C 165W Charger
5. Laptop Stands from Twelve South
6. Beats Pill
7. iPhone Stand
8. Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
9. Apple Magic Trackpad
10. Satechi Headphone Stand
11. HomeKit Light Strips
12. Philips Hue Play Light Bar
13. HomeKit Desk Lamp
14. Under-desk Storage Shelf
15. Cleaning Solutions

### Logitech MX Master 4
The Logitech MX Master 4 is an improved model of its predecessor, boasting haptic feedback and enhanced build quality. This mouse prioritizes comfort and efficiency, making it essential for any Mac user. Its stain-resistant surface and textured plastic enhance its durability.

[Buy on Amazon](https://geni.us/eOqdGUp)

### Satechi Desk Mat
An elegant desk mat can elevate the look of your workspace. The Satechi eco-leather desk mat comes in various colors and features a dual-sided design, making it both durable and versatile.

[Buy on Satechi](https://geni.us/Hp5TfdA)

### OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock
The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock streamlines connectivity with a single cable that links your MacBook Pro to multiple devices. It includes four Thunderbolt 5 ports and a USB-A port, ensuring all your connections are easily accessible.

[Learn more](https://geni.us/iyTS)

### Satechi USB-C 165W Charger
Featuring four USB-C ports, the Satechi USB-C 165W Charger enables you to power multiple devices simultaneously at full speed. This charger is a valuable investment for anyone aiming to keep their devices charged.

[Buy on Satechi](https://geni.us/7m7unb)

### Laptop Stands from Twelve South
For users who prefer a tidy desk, the Twelve South BookArc allows you to store your MacBook Pro in clamshell mode. Alternatively, the Twelve South Curve is ideal for using your laptop with the lid open.

[Explore Twelve South](https://geni.us/jgu6i)

### Beats Pill
The Beats Pill is a mobile speaker that provides remarkable sound quality. Available in various colors, it’s great for both office use and listening on the go.

### iPhone Stand
The Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe functions as a vertical charging stand for your iPhone and includes a wireless charging pad for AirPods and a built-in charging puck for the Apple Watch.

[Buy on Twelve South](https://geni.us/AqA8o)

### Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
The Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID integrates effortlessly with your Mac, enabling you to unlock your device and make payments with ease. Its familiar typing experience improves the transition between your laptop and desktop setups.

[Buy on Apple](https://geni.us/URhDW)

### Apple Magic Trackpad
Alongside the Logitech MX Master, the Apple Magic Trackpad offers gesture support for tasks requiring precision, making it an essential component of your setup.

[Buy on Apple](https://geni.us/fuBey8)

### Satechi Headphone Stand
The Satechi 2-in-1 Headphone Stand not only organizes your headphones but also includes a Qi charger for your iPhone or AirPods, rendering it a functional accessory for any desk.

[Buy on Satechi](https://geni.us/KkAHTc)

### HomeKit Light Strips
HomeKit light strips can enhance your workspace’s ambiance, allowing you to adjust brightness and color from your iPhone or via Siri. They are an economical way to personalize your setup.

[Buy on Amazon](https://geni.us/V5LA44j)

### Philips Hue Play Light Bar
For a more luxurious lighting option, the Philips Hue Play Light Bar provides stunning accent lighting, perfect for establishing a warm atmosphere in your office.

[Learn more](https://geni.us/x5B1NWI)

### HomeKit Desk Lamp
A modern HomeKit-compatible desk lamp offers customizable lighting, making it particularly useful in bright settings.

[Buy on Amazon](https://geni.us/Gd6BWJP)

### Under-desk Storage Shelf
The HumanCentric Under Desk Storage Shelf is a practical solution for decluttering your workspace while maximizing organizational space.

### The Future of Apple IT: Predictions for 2026

As we anticipate 2026, the realm of Apple IT is set for substantial change. With the swift evolution of technology and the growing presence of Apple devices within workplaces, numerous trends are expected to influence IT management and deployment in the coming years.

#### 1. Advanced Device Management Solutions

The challenges associated with overseeing a wide range of Apple devices will demand more advanced management solutions. Platforms like Mosyle are at the forefront by providing unified solutions that simplify the deployment, management, and safeguarding of Apple devices. This integration will alleviate the strain on IT departments, enabling organizations to concentrate on strategic goals rather than routine device management.

#### 2. Heightened Emphasis on Security

As cyber threats continue to advance, securing Apple devices will become a paramount concern for organizations. Anticipate improvements in security measures, including stronger encryption techniques and enhanced user authentication processes. Businesses will need to embrace a proactive stance on security, utilizing tools that offer real-time monitoring and threat identification.

#### 3. Increased Implementation of Automation

Automation will be essential in the future of Apple IT. By automating repetitive tasks such as software updates, device provisioning, and compliance assessments, organizations can enhance efficiency and minimize human mistakes. This transition will allow IT teams to redirect resources to more pressing areas, such as user assistance and strategic planning.

#### 4. Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) will progressively shape the management and utilization of Apple devices in professional settings. AI-driven analytics will yield insights into device usage trends, assisting organizations in making informed decisions regarding resource management and device lifecycle. Moreover, AI can elevate user experiences through tailored support and automated troubleshooting.

#### 5. Remote Work and Hybrid Models

The emergence of remote and hybrid work models will continue to influence how Apple devices are deployed and managed. Organizations will be required to ensure employees have seamless access to essential tools and resources, irrespective of their location. This will necessitate robust remote management solutions that can effectively support a dispersed workforce.

#### 6. Commitment to Sustainability

With growing environmental concerns, organizations will increasingly focus on sustainability within their IT strategies. This could encompass the adoption of energy-efficient devices, implementing recycling initiatives for outdated hardware, and selecting vendors that uphold eco-friendly practices. Apple’s dedication to sustainability is likely to affect how companies strategize their IT initiatives.

#### Conclusion

The landscape of Apple IT in 2026 is expected to be vibrant and transformative. By adopting advanced management solutions, emphasizing security, harnessing automation and AI, adjusting to new work models, and pledging to sustainability, organizations can ensure readiness for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As we traverse this changing environment, platforms like Mosyle will be critical in assisting organizations in maximizing the potential of their Apple devices.

For further insights and discussions regarding the future of Apple IT, tune in to the latest episodes of Apple @ Work.

**App Tracking Transparency: Examining Its Effect and Influence in 2025**

When Apple launched App Tracking Transparency (ATT) in iOS 14.5, it represented a major transformation in user privacy in third-party applications. This functionality enabled iPhone users to decide if their data within apps could be collected and shared with third parties for advertising and other reasons.

### How It Operates

Within the ATT system, developers are required to secure user consent before sharing any data. Users see prompts upon installing new apps, inquiring, “Permit [app name] to monitor your activity across other companies’ apps and websites?” Users can opt for “Allow” or “Ask App Not to Track.”

Selecting “Allow” permits the app to gather various information, including age, gender, location, usage patterns, and browsing behaviors. This data is crucial for advertisers looking to build comprehensive user profiles for targeted marketing.

Conversely, choosing “Ask App Not to Track” blocks the app from accessing the Identifier for Advertisers (IDFA), a unique identifier given to iOS devices. Without the IDFA, advertisers are unable to associate user activities across various apps, complicating the tracking of shopping behaviors alongside social media interactions. This choice effectively restricts access at the system API level, hindering companies from discovering workarounds.

Nonetheless, developers can still monitor users through alternative methods such as IP addresses or personal details supplied within the app. This nuance explains why Apple uses the term “Ask” instead of a straightforward “Deny,” acknowledging the enforcement limitations.

### Is It Still Impactful?

The efficacy of ATT can be assessed from two angles. On one side, tracking has drastically diminished; before ATT, around 73% of U.S. users were trackable by advertisers, and that figure has dropped to about 18%. Major firms, particularly Meta, have experienced repercussions, with losses estimated at $12.8 billion in 2022 alone.

On the flip side, advertisers have adapted to these new circumstances. With the reduction in IDFA usage, methods like device fingerprinting have gained traction. This approach gathers data such as screen size, operating system version, and time zone, enabling advertisers to develop profiles without depending on IDFA. Additionally, numerous apps have pivoted towards contextual advertising, concentrating on user behavior within their specific applications rather than across several platforms.

While ATT has successfully curtailed cross-app tracking, it has not completely eliminated tracking. Advertisers have merely discovered alternative approaches, making it more challenging and expensive to collect user data, aligning with Apple’s goals to strengthen user privacy.

### Conclusion

App Tracking Transparency has significantly transformed the user privacy landscape on iOS devices. While it has been effective in diminishing cross-app tracking, the progression of tracking methods illustrates that the struggle for user privacy is far from over. As advertisers adjust to these developments, it remains essential for users to remain aware of their data privacy and the consequences of their choices within applications.

### Additional Roomba Models Now Compatible with HomeKit

The recent firmware upgrade for Roomba vacuums has broadened compatibility with the Matter smart home standard, allowing users to connect their devices with Apple’s HomeKit through the Home app on iOS 18.4 or later. This upgrade is crucial for those seeking to enhance their smart home functionality.

#### Roomba Models That Are Compatible

Thanks to this upgrade, the following Roomba models are now officially acknowledged as Matter-compatible:

– Roomba® Plus 500 Combo
– Roomba® Max 700 Vac
– Roomba® Max 700 Combo
– Roomba Combo® 10 Max

This improvement enables users to conveniently schedule cleaning tasks or activate their Roomba via Siri or the Home app, thus making smart home administration more streamlined.

#### Update Context

The timing of this upgrade is significant, as iRobot has recently sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. This decision follows obstacles faced by the company, including a thwarted acquisition attempt by Amazon. After the bankruptcy, iRobot is poised to be acquired by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co, which has previously partnered with the firm.

#### How to Update Your Roomba

To verify that your Roomba is up to date, iRobot offers a comprehensive guide. A Roomba connected to Wi-Fi will automatically update its system software when it is connected to the internet and on its Home Base. Users can check for software updates through the iRobot® HOME App or Roomba® Home App by navigating to More > Settings > About (robot name).

#### Incorporating Roomba into Apple Home via Matter

To integrate a compatible Roomba into a Matter ecosystem, users can adhere to these instructions within the Roomba® Home mobile app:

1. Tap the My Home button located at the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap the user account icon positioned at the top of the screen.
3. Tap “Connected Services.”
4. Tap “Apple Home.”
5. Follow the instructions in the app.

For users utilizing the iRobot® Home (Classic) mobile app, the steps are quite similar:

1. Tap the hamburger menu button.
2. Tap “Smart Home.”
3. Tap “Connected Services.”
4. Tap “Apple Home.”
5. Follow the instructions in the app.

Once incorporated, users can manage their Roomba’s connection through the Apple Home app.

#### Final Thoughts

The extension of Matter compatibility to additional Roomba models improves the incorporation of these devices into smart home frameworks, especially for Apple users. As iRobot deals with its recent difficulties, this update could serve as a timely enhancement in user involvement and satisfaction.

Ford has reiterated its dedication to backing Apple CarPlay, underscoring the significance of offering drivers options for in-car technology. At the 2025 Barclays Global Auto and Mobility Tech Conference, Ford CFO Sherry House conveyed the company’s enthusiasm for CarPlay, noting that it is a feature appreciated by customers and will remain a part of Ford vehicles.

House emphasized Ford’s approach of merging external technologies like CarPlay with their own proprietary apps, which have experienced considerable engagement enhancements. The company intends to launch Gemini in 2026, while also continuing the development of native applications aimed at improving customer connectivity.

This dedication to CarPlay is especially remarkable given General Motors’ recent choice to eliminate the platform from its vehicles, positioning Ford’s position as a refreshing contrast in the automotive sector. Nevertheless, it is still unclear if Ford will endorse the forthcoming CarPlay Ultra, as CEO Jim Farley has voiced concerns regarding its initial implementation, despite ongoing dialogues with Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Moreover, there are speculations that Tesla might soon roll out CarPlay support, representing a notable shift for the electric vehicle producer, which has been a prominent holdout against the platform.

As consumers increasingly emphasize technological features in their vehicle selections, the question lingers: Is CarPlay still an essential “must-have” for car buyers?

Apple’s yearly New Year Sale has returned to Japan, featuring attractive offers such as Apple Gift Cards valued up to ¥38,000 (around $255) and a complimentary limited-edition AirTag with select iPhone purchases. The promotion is active from January 2 to January 5 and encompasses a variety of products like iPhones, Macs, iPads, Apple Watches, AirPods, and certain accessories.

### Gift Cards and Complimentary Limited-Edition AirTag

Throughout this promotional period, qualifying iPhone purchases will be eligible for a free limited-edition AirTag, which includes a Daruma engraving—a classic Japanese emblem symbolizing good fortune and the realization of aspirations. Apple has made 65,000 of these exclusive AirTags available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Alongside the AirTag, Apple is offering gift cards across different product categories. The amounts of these gift cards differ by product line, akin to Apple’s Back to School promotions in other areas.

– **iPhone Purchases**: Up to ¥12,000 (around $80)
– **Mac Purchases**: Up to ¥38,000 (around $255)
– **iPad Purchases**: Up to ¥15,000 (around $100)
– **Apple Watch Purchases**: Up to ¥8,000 (around $54)
– **AirPods Purchases**: Up to ¥12,000 (around $80)
– **Select Accessories**: Up to ¥8,000 (around $54)

The complete details of the promotion can be found on Apple’s Japan online store.

This yearly sale not only offers substantial savings but also honors the New Year with distinctive offerings that reflect Japanese culture.

# iOS 26: Thrilling New Features for iPhone Users

iOS 26 brings a multitude of improvements for iPhone users, making it a noteworthy upgrade beyond its groundbreaking Liquid Glass functionality. Here are three remarkable features that have particularly caught the attention of users.

## 1. Systemwide AutoFill for Credit Cards

While Apple Pay provides a smooth transaction experience, it isn’t universally recognized. With iOS 26, submitting credit card information has become significantly more convenient due to the new systemwide AutoFill feature. In the past, iOS would sometimes suggest credit cards through the keyboard, but this was erratic across various web forms.

Now, users can retrieve stored credit card details directly from the AutoFill menu in any text box. By tapping the cursor, a ‘Credit Cards’ section emerges, enabling quick copying and pasting of card information, thus simplifying the payment procedure.

## 2. Visited Places in Apple Maps

Another significant enhancement in iOS 26 is the Visited Places feature in Apple Maps. This optional feature automatically logs locations users have traveled to, such as eateries and retail outlets, improving the Maps experience.

With end-to-end encryption safeguarding user confidentiality, the Visited Places feature enables users to search for and share locations they’ve frequented. A key benefit is that Maps now marks previously visited locations during searches, making it simpler to find familiar places without needing to remember their addresses.

## 3. Pinned Music in Apple Music

Apple Music is continually advancing, and one of the most valued features in iOS 26 is the capacity to pin music within the application. Users can now pin up to six titles—whether playlists, artists, albums, or individual tracks—at the top of their Library for easy access.

This feature not only lets users keep their preferred songs within reach but also acts as a reminder for music they want to discover later. While there is optimism for an expansion in the number of pins allowed, this improvement has already shown to be a beneficial enhancement for music enthusiasts.

—

These features underscore Apple’s dedication to improving user experience with each iOS update. What are your preferred iOS 26 features so far?

As 2025 draws to a close, I felt it was time to reflect on the technology that I engaged with throughout the year that truly impacted my daily life. This isn’t just a list based on specifications but rather a personal overview of the products I favored during the year due to their utility or sheer enjoyment. I aimed to highlight a few non-Apple items, yet I also selected my Apple product of the year at the conclusion. Here are my top tech picks of 2025!

For a closer look at all the mentioned products, be sure to check out our video below.

Now, in no specific order, here are my preferred products of the year!

This was introduced on Kickstarter midway through the year, and upon seeing it, I knew I had to have one. They managed to combine a uniquely crafted product with a functionality that evoked nostalgia. That was a winning combination. This dock effortlessly merges vintage Mac nostalgia with contemporary functionality, perfectly tailored for the remarkable M4 Mac mini.

You receive:

– 5-inch integrated display
– 14-in-1 USB-C hub
– Front: 2x USB-A, SD & microSD slots, USB-C
– Rear: 2x USB-A, HDMI 2.1, 2x USB-C, 3.5mm jack
– Integrated NVMe SSD enclosure (up to 8TB)

It’s nostalgic, practical, a great conversation starter, and one of those rare accessories that feels both fun and functional. They are currently available on Amazon for $169!

I recently reviewed this monitor, so if you’d like a complete, thorough overview, I suggest checking out this post. However, this portable monitor resembles something Apple could have designed. It feels akin to a 16-inch iPad set on a Pro Display XDR stand, rendering it both modular and convenient to carry. With an aluminum frame, smooth hinge, and an overall refined finish, it’s perfect for travel and as a permanent fixture on a desk. You get:

– 16-inch display (Full HD or 4K options)
– 270-degree adjustable hinge
– Aluminum build
– Built-in SD card reader
– Mini HDMI port
– USB-C single-cable connection

I primarily use it as a vertical side display for my Mac mini setup but I also take it with me, and it’s fantastic, especially with iPadOS 26! You can find them on Sotsu’s site starting at $599.

I had been using the same Logitech Anywhere 2S for over 8 years. There was no need to upgrade as it performed flawlessly. Then Logitech launched the MX Master 4, and wow. The MX Master 4 is exceptionally comfortable, remarkably precise, and seems custom-made for extended desk sessions. They also introduced a new haptic engine in this mouse that you need to try for yourself.

Key features:

– Ergonomic design
– Haptic scroll wheel with horizontal scrolling
– Customizable gesture buttons
– Great battery life (weeks per charge)
– Multi-device compatibility

The customizations available via the Logitech app are impressive. For those seeking the best, the MX Master 4 is unbeatable. You can buy it on Amazon for $119!

This was the first Qi 2.2 certified charger I tested, and it’s the one I rely on most often. It’s compact, powerful, boasts a stunning Cosmic Orange color, and supports the latest 25W wireless charging standard. Here’s what you need to know:

– Qi2.2 wireless charging (up to 25W)
– Charges iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch
– Foldable puck-to-stand design
– Comes with power adapter, cable, and travel case
– Anodized aluminum finish

This charger is practical, travel-friendly, and pairs wonderfully with the Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro. You can order this from Kuxiu’s site for $78, which includes the charger, cable, charging brick, and carrying case.

This year, I wanted to acquire a power bank capable of handling anything. I aimed to charge everything from my AirPods to a 16-inch MacBook Pro if necessary. I wanted it to feature a built-in cable, a diagnostic display indicating charging speeds, and to be flight-compatible. The EcoFlow Rapid Power Pro met all those criteria.

You receive:

– 27,600mAh capacity
– Built-in retractable USB-C cable (up to 140W output)
– 3 Additional USB-C ports (140W +

**Enhance Your Credit Card Rewards with CardPointers: A Summary**

With the holiday shopping season on the horizon, astute consumers are seeking methods to enhance their credit card rewards. A noteworthy tool that has come into the spotlight is CardPointers, an iPhone application crafted to assist users in maximizing their credit card points and rewards. Following its latest update, CardPointers has unveiled various new functionalities and improvements that leverage iOS 26 to the fullest.

### What is CardPointers?

CardPointers is a utility that streamlines the management of credit card rewards. It enables users to track which credit card to utilize for particular purchases, ensuring maximum benefits from their rewards programs. This app acts as a central platform for accessing credit card offers, monthly credits, annual fee renewal reminders, and more, facilitating organization and awareness.

### Key Features of CardPointers

1. **Seamless Amex Offers Integration**: One of CardPointers’ standout capabilities is its automatic addition of available Amex Offers, removing the necessity for users to enter them manually on the Amex website.

2. **Safari Extension**: The application features a superb Safari extension that clearly shows which card to select while shopping online, aiding users in making informed choices instantly.

3. **Liquid Glass Redesign**: The recent update brings a complete redesign with Liquid Glass, offering a contemporary and stylish user interface.

4. **On-device Apple Intelligence**: With the incorporation of Apple’s Foundation Models, users can engage with the application through voice commands. Just ask Siri about your cards or offers for quick access to information.

5. **Dynamic Widgets and Shortcuts**: CardPointers 7 includes extensive keyboard shortcuts and customizable widgets for both iPad and Mac, thus improving user experience and accessibility.

6. **Watch App Enhancements**: The Watch app now defaults to displaying nearby stores, helping users locate venues to use their cards while maintaining their privacy.

7. **AutoPilot Live Activity and CarPlay Widgets**: New functionalities for CarPlay and live activity tracking simplify rewards management while on the move.

8. **Offer Streak Chart**: A new Offer Streak chart allows users to visualize their rewards and effectively monitor their usage.

### Special Offers for 9to5Mac Readers

In a special promotion, 9to5Mac readers can enjoy a 50% discount on CardPointers for holiday shopping. Additionally, those who select the lifetime plan will be rewarded with a $200 savings card as a registration bonus. This presents an ideal moment to invest in the application if you’re aiming to optimize your credit card rewards strategy.

### Conclusion

CardPointers is an essential resource for individuals wishing to maximize their credit card rewards. With its intuitive interface, robust features, and recent enhancements, it distinguishes itself as a must-have application for savvy shoppers. Whether you’re an experienced rewards aficionado or just beginning to delve into credit card benefits, CardPointers can assist you in navigating the intricate arena of credit card offers and rewards effectively.

For further details, CardPointers is available on the App Store, and interested individuals can benefit from the exclusive discounts available through 9to5Mac.

**Apple’s Challenge to UK Verdict on App Store Fees**

Apple is in the midst of contesting a major verdict from the UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal, which determined that the tech behemoth charged millions of customers excessively through inflated commissions on its App Store. This case, which has attracted significant attention, underscores the ongoing friction between large tech firms and advocates for consumer rights.

### A Brief Overview

In October 2023, the Competition Appeal Tribunal concluded that Apple had exploited its dominant role in the App Store by enforcing what it considered to be excessive and unjust commissions on app sales and in-app transactions. This verdict resulted from a lawsuit initiated on behalf of 36 million British consumers by Dr. Rachael Kent, a senior lecturer in digital economy and society at King’s College London. The lawsuit addresses App Store sales dating as far back as October 2015.

Dr. Kent stated that the ruling represented a crucial moment in consumer advocacy against major tech firms, indicating a change in how consumers are addressing perceived inequities in the digital marketplace. She remarked, “It’s definitely a tipping point,” highlighting the increasing awareness of the financial consequences of digital services.

The tribunal’s ruling emphasized that Apple had sustained a monopoly in the app distribution sector, effectively barring competition and imposing exorbitant commissions on developers. This decision could potentially result in substantial financial consequences for Apple, with projected penalties nearing £1.5 billion.

### Apple’s Challenge

In reaction to the tribunal’s ruling, Apple has lodged an appeal in a bid to reverse the judgment. The company contends that the ruling might have extensive ramifications not just for its business model but also for the wider tech sector. Apple’s appeal is set within a broader context where various class action lawsuits are advancing against both Apple and Google, with consumers and small enterprises seeking more than £6 billion in restitution for alleged infringements of competition laws.

The appeal process is notably important as it utilizes an opt-out mechanism, permitting millions of consumers to collectively pursue claims against the tech giants. This method has been praised by campaigners as a possible turning point in the struggle against monopolistic behavior in the tech industry.

This represents Apple’s second attempt to contest the ruling, following a previous effort that was denied in November 2023. The outcome of this appeal could establish a precedent for the operations of tech companies in the UK and possibly affect regulations in other regions.

### Conclusion

As Apple aims to dispute the tribunal’s ruling, the case exemplifies wider issues surrounding consumer rights and the power dynamics between major tech companies and their users. The result of this appeal will not only affect Apple’s financial status but may also indicate a transition in regulatory strategies regarding digital marketplaces, potentially resulting in heightened scrutiny and modifications in how tech companies operate their platforms.