Apple's iOS 19, macOS 16 overhauls aimed at ease of use
Apple's expected upgrades to iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16 will be a major overhaul, with executives apparently confident consumers will like the faster and easier to use interfaces.iOS 19 is due this fall, but will be previewed at WWDCEvery year, Apple reveals its inbound changes to its operating systems at WWDC. So far, rumors have claimed that there will be some major interface alterations on the way, and executives are apparently confident they will keep consumers happy.According to Mark Gurman in Bloomberg's Sunday newsletter, top executives in Apple are confident that users will love the new look and feel of the updated operating systems. The key point of the move is to appeal to existing users, while still attracting new users down the road. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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New dummy models highlight iPhone 17 Air thinness, much thicker Pro models, more
Thanks to Apple leaker Sonny Dickson, we now have our first look at some dummy models for the iPhone 17 lineup. These dummy models highlight a number of things: new camera bump designs across the Air and Pro models, MagSafe support across the whole lineup, varying thicknesses, and more. more…

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A Postscript on the Singular Nature of Mark Gurman’s Reporting
But I’d feel a lot better about our collective conventional wisdom regarding the nature of this particular all-hands Siri meeting if it had leaked to, and been reported on, by more than one reporter at more than one publication.

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iPhone 17 Air will mark a ‘new beginning’ for Apple
Apple will pack many cutting-edge features on the iPhone 17 Air that could eventually make their way to future iPhones. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Report: Apple considered removing USB-C port from iPhone 17 Air, more
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, iPhone 17 Air will feature a number of features from the iPhone 16 Pro, including Camera Control and ProMotion. Rumors have long suggested that the entire iPhone 17 lineup would feature ProMotion, but it wasn’t quite clear whether or not iPhone 17 Air would feature Camera Control. Despite the thinness though, it now seems likely the phone will feature Camera Control. Apple had also considered making the iPhone 17 Air its first “port-free” iPhone, and going all in on wireless charging. The company ultimately decided against this. more…

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iPhone Air was almost portless, but concerns about EU regulations prevented it
Apple had originally planned to make the iPhone 17 Air the first completely wireless model, but has apparently changed its mind on that front.The future iPhone Air was originally planned to rely on wireless charging only.A new report claims that Apple considered making one of its future iPhones completely port-free. The thinner model, for now called the iPhone 17 Air, could have gone without a USB-C port — but Apple has since backed off the idea.Ultimately, Apple is said to have decided to include a USB-C port for charging after all. This is said to have been done to appease potential concerns from European Union regulators. Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple may be working on two new Studio Display models
Apple's next rumored display move could be more than just a replacement of the Apple Studio Display. It could be planning to introduce two different models.Apple Studio DisplayApple is rumored to be working on an update to the Apple Studio Display, with a second-gen screen bringing with it a number of feature improvements. It seems it's not the only screen Apple is working on.According to Sunday's Bloomberg newsletter, Mark Gurman believes that two versions are in development. The previously discussed model with codename J427, is being accompanied by a second, codenamed J527. Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Learn to use Photoshop and other Adobe apps like a pro with this $30 bundle
Gain comprehensive knowledge about how to use the Adobe Creative Suite with this easy-to-follow Adobe course bundle. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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Reminder: Apple issued a critical update for iPhones and Macs this week
Macworld If you’ve got a to-do list this weekend, we’ve got one more item for it: update your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. An update was released this week that patches a vulnerability first spotted way back in December 2023. According to Apple’s release notes, the fix affects iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2, as well as Safari 18 for macOS Ventura and macOS Sonoma users. The release notes say the updates include unknown bug fixes, but the big reason to update is a single security update across all devices: Impact: Maliciously crafted web content may be able to break out of Web Content sandbox. This is a supplementary fix for an attack that was blocked in iOS 17.2. (Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals on versions of iOS before iOS 17.2.) Description: An out-of-bounds write issue was addressed with improved checks to prevent unauthorized actions. WebKit Bugzilla: 285858 CVE-2025-24201: Apple Apple is credited with discovering the flaw, which was initially patched on December 11, 2023, with iOS 17.2 and macOS Sonoma 14.2. It’s unclear which WebKit patch fixed the original vulnerability. So far this year, Apple has fixed three zero-days, which are defined as flaws that were previously unknown. While Apple’s language implies this threat was used in targeted attacks, you should definitely update your devices if you haven’t already.

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3 reasons to watch gripping Dope Thief on Apple TV+
Love gritty crime dramas? We give you 3 reasons to watch "Dope Thief" on Apple TV+. For one thing, it's like "The Wire" of Philadelphia. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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3 reasons to watch gripping Dope Thief on Apple TV+
Love gritty crime dramas? We give you 3 reasons to watch "Dope Thief" on Apple TV+. For one thing, it's like "The Wire" of Philadelphia. (via Cult of Mac - Apple news, rumors, reviews and how-tos)

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iPhone 17 Air will have design compromises, but also will debut many engineering changes
The iPhone 17 Air will herald the start of a new iPhone engineering ethos at Apple, with Apple said to have pulled off a herculean effort to come up with its design.A render of what the iPhone 17 Air could look likeThe 2025 iPhone lineup is expected to include quite a few changes. Alongside a radical iPhone 17 Pro camera bump alteration, speculation is that Apple will be bringing out hardware referred to as the iPhone 17 Air or iPhone 17 Slim.In Sunday's newsletter for Bloomberg, Mark Gurman writes about the model's details, including how it won't look that different from a standard model when viewed from the front. It will have a 6.6-inch display with slim borders and ProMotion, as well as the Dynamic Island at the top. Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Gurman: Apple working on multiple versions of second generation Studio Display
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is potentially working on a third generation, codenamed J527. This would be a version ahead of the already rumored second generation Studio Display, which is codenamed J427 – but feature advantages of the third generation display are unknown. It’s also plausible that this isn’t a third-generation monitor at all. Let’s discuss. more…

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9 uses for your iPhone’s USB-C port other than fast charging
Macworld It took the iPhone an eternity to strike Lightning in favor of the universal USB-C port. Now that it’s here on all models, including the low-end 16e, many users still limit its use to charging, overlooking the slew of other advantages it offers over Lightning. If you’ve got an iPhone 15 or 16 model, you can expand the USB-C port’s functionality beyond battery fill-ups, and we’ve got a few ideas to share. 1. Charge another device Rival companies, like Samsung, have long supported reverse wireless charging, letting users turn their smartphones into portable Qi pads. However, it’s not all that practical, forcing users to flip over their phones and rendering both unusable. With the iPhone 15 and newer models, Apple introduced its own version that works via the USB-C port. Your iPhone can now deliver up to 4.5W of power, letting you charge your AirPods, Apple Watch, or even a friend’s Android phone. To do so, simply plug your USB-C cable into the iPhone and the other end into the USB-C port on the other device. 2. Increase your storage Even with 128 GB as the standard, we’ve probably all come across the iPhone’s full storage alert. While data stored in iCloud can easily be offloaded from the local memory, not all users trust cloud storage. Fortunately, the iPhone 15 and 16 support a wide range of external storage devices, including USB sticks and hard drives. This makes it easy to free up space by moving large files to a separate drive. To get started, connect a compatible flash drive to your iPhone using its USB-C port. You can then view, manage, and transfer data using the built-in Files app. One of the solid options out there is this tiny Samsung Type-C Flash Drive, which supports regular file transfers and real-time ProRes video storage. As a Pro exclusive, those with the highest-end iPhone 15 and 16 models can directly record ProRes video to a compatible external storage device. Given the considerable size of raw footage, being able to write the data directly onto a separate device can help you shoot for longer periods and avoid filling up your iPhone’s memory. Your iPhone’s USB-C cable can do more than just charge your iPhone.Foundry 3. Connect a keyboard While iPads and Macs are better suited for long-form typing, iPhones—especially the near-7-inch Plus and Pro Max models—can still handle productivity tasks effectively. To make the most of the relatively small screen, though, you may want to pair it with a dedicated keyboard. Fortunately, iOS natively supports this through the USB-C port. Most standard keyboards should work with your iPhone just fine. Or if you want to always have a keyboard with you, you can opt for a Clicks case, which connects to your USB-C port so it’s always ready for a text or email. 4. Amplify your microphone In the era of TikTok, everyone is a content creator, so a high-quality microphone is an essential tool. Fortunately, your iPhone’s USB-C port can support a wide range of them, letting you pair your footage with crystal-clear high-quality audio. One reliable option is the Rode Wireless Micro, which utilizes your iPhone’s port while maintaining the convenience of wireless recording. 5. Add an SD card Photographers and videographers love the handy SD card slots on board the newest MacBook Pro and Mac Studio, but that convenience doesn’t extend to the device that does most of your shooting. Fortunately, that can be easily remedied with a wired SD card reader. While newer cameras generally support wireless photo transfers via their respective companion apps, the process tends to be slower than the wired alternative. Apple’s USB-C to SD Card Reader connects to your iPhone through its charging port and should work with all relevant SD cards. You can also use this same dongle with your Mac or iPad when editing on a larger screen. With the right cable, you can connect your iPhone to any display.Willis Lai / Foundry 6. Hook up an external display If you’re staying at a hotel that blocks wireless media casting, you may be able to mirror your iPhone’s screen to the TV using a wired solution. Apple’s USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter transforms your iPhone’s charging port into an HDMI connector, allowing you to watch 4K content on bigger displays using a regular HDMI cable. 7. Plug in a game controller Thanks to the A17 and A18 chips, the latest Pro-tier iPhones can run some AAA games. Notably, though, these titles typically need a controller, as touch controls don’t always offer the best gameplay if they’re available at all. While Sony’s DualSense controller supports Bluetooth pairing, opting for the wired mode using the iPhone’s USB-C port can minimize latency and enhance overall performance. 8. Connect to ethernet  Speaking of gaming, the iPhone 15 and 16 models fully support ethernet dongles, allowing for faster download and upload speeds. While Wi-Fi and 5G are sufficient for most users, Ethernet can come in handy when seeking an even more dependable connection. Belkin’s USB-C to Ethernet Adapter is one of the solid options that is guaranteed to get the job done. 9. Do it all The biggest detriment of the iPhone is that there’s just one port, but a USB hub can give you much more. We recommend the Plugable 7-in-1 USB-C Hub Multiport Adapter, which will bring a headphone jack, USB-C charging, HDMI, an SD card reader, ethernet, and even a couple of USB-A ports for good measure. It’s not exactly small, but if you need to use several ports at once, there’s no substitute. Your iPhone’s USB-C port is a multi-purpose connector for displays, hard drives, and other accessories.Connor Jewiss / Foundry One port, many possibilities While some of these functionalities were previously possible with Lightning iPhones, the shift to USB-C has greatly expanded the port’s capabilities. You can now perform a wide range of desktop-class tasks right from your smartphone, thanks to tethered accessories. Perhaps the best part is that most USB-C accessories you’ve been using with your iPad or Mac should work with your iPhone 15 or 16—eliminating the need for Lightning-to-USB-C dongles. Whether Apple will introduce new USB-C upgrades with the iPhone 17 remains to be seen.

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Software subscription are ending, and it’s starting with PDF apps
Macworld Good, affordable PDF apps are pretty hard to find. If you don’t want to pay yet another monthly subscription, then check out PDF Reader Pro. This all-in-one PDF tool can edit, convert, annotate, and more, and it’s only $39.99 for a lifetime subscription.  PDF Reader Pro isn’t just for reading; you can actually edit your documents. Edit text, swap out pictures, and highlight all the important bits. Basically, you can make the PDF do what you want. And if you’re reading a long document, it’s got a night mode that’s way easier on the eyes. You can also merge pages, split them up, and even password-protect files. And if you deal with forms or scanned documents, it’s got you covered there, too, with built-in OCR capabilities.  It’s only $39.99 to get a PDF Reader Pro Premium Lifetime License, but it won’t stay that way.    PDF Reader Pro Premium License For Mac: Lifetime Subscription – $39.99 See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change. 

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Own Microsoft Office 2024 for Mac and ditch monthly subscriptions fees
Macworld Software subscriptions can add up fast, but there’s no reason to keep paying monthly to access essential productivity tools. Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac lifetime license is now available for just $159.97 (reg. $249)—a one-time payment that gives you access forever with no hidden fees. Whether you’re managing projects, analyzing data, or crafting presentations, this Mac- and PC-compatible edition includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote to handle your work seamlessly. Office 2024 features a sleek, modern interface with performance upgrades across the board, making it even easier to get things done—online or offline. Unlike subscription-based models, this lifetime license gives you full access with no recurring costs. That means you’ll always have the tools you need, whether you’re drafting reports, organizing spreadsheets, or staying on top of your inbox. Skip the subscription fees and own Microsoft Office for good. Get the 2024 Home & Business lifetime license for just $159.97 while this deal lasts.   Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC Lifetime License – $159.97 See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

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How to get rid of phantom Messages badges on a Mac
Macworld I sit in front of a Mac all day (like you probably do), so I rely on notifications a lot, especially to communicate with co-workers, friends, and family. The problem I’ve been having, however, is that the Messages app often fakes me out with phantom unread messages, leaving me frustrated and confused. Here’s what happens: The Messages icon in the Dock shows a red “1” badge, indicating that there’s a new message. But when I open Messages, there’s nothing new, and worse, the badge won’t go away. So I go back to work for a while, pull up the Dock, see the badge (again), and think I have a new message (again). The badge usually goes away when I restart my Mac, but that’s not something I like to do all that often. At first, I found the way to get rid of the badge accidentally. After it popped up again, I accidentally right-clicked on the app icon in the Dock (with two fingers on the trackpad, right-click or Control-click on a mouse), which opened up the pop-up options menu. under the New Message option at the top of the menu was a tally of my messages with a notification that one was unread. I clicked it, and a blank conversation appeared that was apparently tricking the app into thinking I had an unread message. I deleted it and the badge disappeared. Foundry But then that fix stopped working. So I had to resort to another fix that isn’t so convenient, but it does work. It involves syncing Messages with iCloud. HEre’s what to do: Open System Settings and click on your Apple Account at the very top of the left column. In the main window, click on iCloud. Click on Messages. Click on Sync Now. Foundry This performs a Message sync with iCloud and it should clear up the phantom badge. It’s not really a fix for my problem–there’s clearly a bug in Messages on my Mac that’s causing this—but until an update fixes it, I can at least clear the phantom badge and get back to work. Today I Learned is a Macworld column that spotlights lesser-known but useful tips and tricks for Apple users. If you have any ideas for future columns, send an email to michael_simon@idg.com.

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Apple quietly launches new app to help firms improve Apple Maps
Apple appears to be expanding its pool of partner companies supplying data for Apple Maps, as it has now released an app especially for firms to contribute updated information.Apple MapsJust as it did with the Apple Vision Pro Demo Fit app — releasing it in the App Store but practically hiding it, Apple now has another new app. This one is called Surveyor, and while it is available in the US App Store, it does not appear to be intended for public use.Rather than the GPS tracking, multiple cameras and LiDAR scanning that Apple's fleet of Apple Maps cars use, Surveyor is intended to capture images of street signs. While members of the public can already send certain updates to Apple Maps, this appears to be more about getting the company extensive information without its own cars having to repeat routes. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Google rolling out latest Gemini 2.0 models, free Deep Research to Android, iOS
Following the Thursday announcement, Google is widely rolling out the latest Gemini models, including 2.0 Flash Thinking (experimental), to the web, Android, and iOS apps. more…

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Indie App Spotlight: ‘Remind Me Faster’ is an ultimate companion app for Apple Reminders
Welcome to Indie App Spotlight. This is a weekly 9to5Mac series where we showcase the latest apps in the indie app world. If you’re a developer and would like your app featured, get in contact. Remind Me Faster is a nice companion app for Apple Reminders, helping you transcribe your thoughts into reminders as quickly as possible. It doesn’t replace Reminders, but instead makes it more intuitive to use. more…

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