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  • Apple’s new MacBook Air fixes a tiny but annoying keyboard flaw

    Apple’s new MacBook Air fixes a tiny but annoying keyboard flaw

    Apple has made a small change to its latest MacBook Air that might not grab big attention but will make picky Mac fans happy. After 26 years, the company has finally fixed a little keyboard mix-up that’s been around since 1999.

    The Mute key, which first showed up on the PowerBook G3 ‘Lombard,’ has been updated on the new MacBook Air with the M4 chip. According to iCulture, it now has a simple speaker icon with a line through it. This matches the symbol you see on your screen when you press it in macOS, making things clearer.

    For years, the old Mute key just showed a plain speaker symbol. It didn’t hint that it turns off your sound. Then, when you pressed it, a different image—a speaker with a slash—popped up on the screen. Sure, the key could mute and un-mute, but the new design makes its job obvious, kind of like the mute button on an Apple TV Remote.

    This tiny tweak ends a weird design mismatch that stuck around through tons of Mac keyboards over the years. The updated Mute key isn’t just for the MacBook Air. The new iPad Air’s Magic Keyboard has it, too. For iPad fans, this feels extra nice since older Magic Keyboards didn’t even have function keys.

    This change shows how Apple pays attention to the little things, even if it took the company over 25 years to get it right. Looking ahead, it’s a safe bet that all new Macs will use this improved Mute key. The next big release, likely a MacBook Pro with an M5 chip coming around October, will probably have it, too. It’s a small fix, but it’s one more way Apple keeps making their stuff better.

  • Affordable new Magic Keyboard unveiled for iPad Air with cool upgrades

    Affordable new Magic Keyboard unveiled for iPad Air with cool upgrades

    Apple recently launched the M3 iPad Air and iPad 11, and now it’s introduced a neat new accessory to go with them. The Magic Keyboard for iPad Air has been updated with some awesome features borrowed from the M4 iPad Pro’s version. Let’s check out what’s new!

    iPad Air’s Magic Keyboard Gets a Fresh Look

    According to Apple:

    The redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad Air makes it easier to get things done, all at a lower price. It has a bigger trackpad that’s super accurate for tricky tasks, plus a new row of 14 keys for quick controls like adjusting brightness or sound. It snaps on magnetically, and the Smart Connector instantly links it up for power and data—no Bluetooth needed. There’s also a sturdy aluminum hinge with a USB-C port for charging. Starting at just $269 for the 11-inch size and $319 for the 13-inch, this keyboard keeps its sleek floating style and comes in white. This updated Magic Keyboard for iPad Air picks up some of the best tricks from the M4 iPad Pro’s keyboard, which I adore.

    Here’s what they share:

    • A larger trackpad for easier use
    • A handy row of shortcut keys

    One small difference? The iPad Air version doesn’t have the fancy trackpad vibration feedback. It also skips the aluminum area near the trackpad. But overall, the two keyboards are pretty similar. Both come in 11-inch and 13-inch options. While it’d be cool to have just one Magic Keyboard for all iPads, the super-slim iPad Pro probably needs its special fit.

    Pricing and Which iPads Work with It

    The iPad Air’s Magic Keyboard is cheaper since it skips a couple of extras:

    • 11-inch: $269 (compared to $299 for iPad Pro’s)
    • 13-inch: $319 (compared to $349 for iPad Pro’s)

    It works with these iPads:

    • iPad Air 11-inch (M3, M2, 5th, and 4th gen)
    • iPad Air 13-inch (M3, M2)

    You can grab it now from Apple’s online store, with delivery by Wednesday, March 12.

  • Apple prepares for major changes in its board of directors

    Apple prepares for major changes in its board of directors

    Apple is gearing up for notable shifts in its board of directors, as two key members approach or surpass the recommended retirement age of 75. Art Levinson, the board chair, will turn 75 in March 2025, making his retirement likely in the near future. An announcement about his departure could come as early as February during Apple’s annual shareholder meeting. Levinson, a former CEO and chairman of Genentech and the current CEO of Alphabet’s Calico Life Sciences, has been part of Apple’s board since 2010.

    Levinson’s retirement could pave the way for Apple CEO Tim Cook, now 64, to step into the chairman role by 2026, potentially signaling the beginning of his own retirement plans. Alternatively, Cook might appoint another current or incoming board member to the position.

    Apple has a policy recommending retirement at 75, but it isn’t always strictly enforced. For instance, Ronald Sugar, a longtime board member and former Northrop Grumman executive, was granted an exception in 2024. However, his extended tenure may soon come to an end, leaving Apple with the task of finding two new board members.

    If Cook chooses to remain solely as CEO, Apple may conduct a global search to fill these roles. However, should Cook take on the chairman position, he would follow a growing trend among tech leaders. Notable examples include Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, Microsoft’s Satya Nadella, and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, who transitioned to board chair after stepping down as CEO.

    Tim Cook has been with Apple since 1998 and became CEO in 2011, succeeding co-founder Steve Jobs. Under Cook’s leadership, Apple has maintained its position as one of the world’s most influential companies. These board changes could mark the beginning of a new era for the tech giant.

    Source

  • Car makers still on board with Apple’s new CarPlay system

    Car makers still on board with Apple’s new CarPlay system

    Apple has recently announced that a number of car makers are still set to support the upcoming version of CarPlay in their upcoming car models. However, they didn’t specify when this would happen. Apple had earlier mentioned that this new CarPlay would be available in 2024, but that didn’t come to pass.

    Apple’s statement regarding the new CarPlay is:

    “The new CarPlay is designed based on our experience with the current system, offering an experience that combines the best of Apple’s technology with the car maker’s unique style. We are working closely with various car companies to help them display their brand’s unique look in the new CarPlay. Each car company will give more information as they get closer to announcing which cars will have this feature.”

    Apple also reaffirmed its dedication to the existing CarPlay system, noting that it’s now in more than 98% of new cars sold in the U.S. in recent times.

    Previously, Apple listed car makers like Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault, and Volvo as partners for the new CarPlay. In late 2023, Aston Martin and Porsche showed off their versions of this new system, but they haven’t released it yet. It’s not clear which companies are currently working with Apple on this project.

    This update follows closely after Apple changed its website to take out the 2024 timeline for the new CarPlay they had mentioned before. The system was first shown off by Apple at their Worldwide Developers Conference in 2022.

  • Apple’s latest earnings and challenges ahead

    Apple’s latest earnings and challenges ahead

    Apple recently shared its financial results for the second quarter of 2025, showing strong growth. The company earned $95.4 billion in revenue, a 5% increase from last year, and a profit of $24.8 billion, up 8%. Services, like streaming and subscriptions, hit a record high, growing 12%.

    iPhone sales also helped, especially in markets where Apple Intelligence is available, boosting performance. New products, like the iPhone 16e and advanced Macs and iPads, added to the success. Apple’s board approved $100 billion for stock buybacks and raised its dividend to $0.26 per share.

    However, challenges loom. CEO Tim Cook discussed tariffs, noting they had little impact this quarter due to supply chain tweaks. But for the next quarter, tariffs could add $900 million in costs if policies stay unchanged. Cook avoided commenting on price hikes, leaving consumers wondering. Apple is diversifying production, with half of U.S. iPhones now made in India and other products in Vietnam, to reduce reliance on China.

    On the legal front, Apple faces App Store changes after a court ruling favored Epic Games. The company must allow developers to link to external payment options, following a 2021 injunction. Apple disagrees with the decision, plans to appeal, and is complying for now. The outcome remains unclear, but it could affect Apple’s services business. Despite these hurdles, Apple’s focus on innovation and customer loyalty keeps its device base growing. Cook remains optimistic, hinting at exciting products ahead, like a thinner iPhone 17 Air.

    Source/Via/Via

  • iPadOS 19 to bring Mac-style menu bar for better multitasking

    iPadOS 19 to bring Mac-style menu bar for better multitasking

    Apple is getting ready to improve the iPad experience with iPadOS 19 by adding a menu bar like the one found on Macs. This new feature is expected to make it easier for users to multitask and switch between tools while using apps — something that has been a bit of a struggle on iPads compared to Macs.

    Right now, iPads rely on toolbars and buttons within each app, which can make it hard to quickly access important options. With iPadOS 19, Apple may place a system-wide menu bar at the top of the screen, just like on Mac computers. This would give users faster access to app functions and settings without crowding the screen.

    Developers might also get tools to customize the menu bar for their apps, allowing a more organized and cleaner layout. The feature could help make the iPad feel more like a true productivity device, especially when using a keyboard and trackpad.

    This change is part of Apple’s bigger plan to make iPads more useful for work. iPadOS 19 is expected to be announced at WWDC 2025 in June, and more details about the menu bar and other features will likely be shared at that time.

    Overall, this update could fix long-standing issues with multitasking and give users a smoother, more desktop-like experience on iPads.

  • The 2026 MacBook Pro: Exciting updates to look forward to

    The 2026 MacBook Pro: Exciting updates to look forward to

    Apple fans are buzzing about what’s coming with the MacBook Pro in 2026. Rumors suggest it could be the “perfect” version yet, packed with cool upgrades. Let’s dive into what’s being talked about. First up, the screen might get a big boost. People are saying Apple could switch to OLED displays, which means brighter colors and darker blacks. Plus, the size could grow a bit—think 14.2 inches and 16.2 inches instead of the current 14 and 16. That extra space could make work and play even better.

    Power is another hot topic. The 2026 MacBook Pro might come with Apple’s next-level M5 chip. This tiny powerhouse could make everything faster, from editing videos to running big apps. Some even believe it’ll handle heavy tasks without breaking a sweat, thanks to smarter design and more strength.

    Battery life could also see a jump. With the new chip and some clever tweaks, the laptop might last longer on a single charge—perfect for those long days away from a plug. And don’t forget the look: whispers hint at a slimmer, sleeker body that’s easier to carry around.

    Finally, there’s talk of a better keyboard and more ports. Apple might bring back some fan-favorite connections, like an SD card slot, making life simpler for photographers and creators. The typing experience could feel smoother too, with keys that just click right.

    While it’s all rumors for now, the 2026 MacBook Pro sounds like a dream for tech lovers. Bigger screens, more power, longer battery, and a fresh design? Count us in! Apple hasn’t spilled the beans yet, but the chatter has us excited for what’s next.

  • How Apple plans to handle Trump’s tariffs and keep profits high

    How Apple plans to handle Trump’s tariffs and keep profits high

    Apple is facing a big challenge with Donald Trump’s return as president in 2025. His plan includes adding taxes, called tariffs, on goods coming from other countries. This could make iPhones, which are mostly made in China, more expensive to bring into the U.S. But Apple has a smart way to deal with this and still make good money.

    Experts say Apple cares a lot about keeping its profits strong. Instead of raising iPhone prices too much, the company might soak up some of the extra costs from tariffs. How? By using its huge pile of cash and finding ways to save money elsewhere. This keeps customers happy and sales steady. For example, Apple could tweak how it makes products or bargain harder with suppliers to lower costs.

    Trump believes the U.S. has what it takes to build iPhones at home, cutting out imports. He’s pushing for American factories to take over. But moving production to the U.S. isn’t easy or cheap for Apple. It would mean building new plants, training workers, and spending a lot upfront—things Apple might not rush into. Right now, China’s setup works well for them, so a big switch seems unlikely soon.

    Still, Apple isn’t ignoring Trump’s ideas. The company already makes some parts in the U.S. and could slowly do more to show it’s on board. This might calm things down with the government while keeping its profit plan on track. By balancing costs, staying flexible, and maybe adding a few U.S. jobs, Apple aims to come out ahead. It’s a tricky game, but Apple’s used to playing it smart.

  • New games heading to Apple Arcade in May 2025

    New games heading to Apple Arcade in May 2025

    Apple Arcade is gearing up to add five exciting games to its lineup next month, starting May 1, 2025. These titles promise fun for players of all ages, and they’ll be available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. Here’s a quick look at what’s coming.

    First up is LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga. This action-packed adventure lets you explore the entire Star Wars universe, from epic battles to iconic moments, all in a colorful LEGO style. Fans of the franchise will love reliving the saga.

    Next, Monopoly GO! brings the classic board game to life with a fresh twist. Roll the dice, buy properties, and compete with friends in a lively, digital version of the timeless game. For puzzle lovers, Crayola Create and Play+ offers a creative space to design, color, and solve fun challenges. It’s perfect for kids and anyone who enjoys artsy activities.

    Sports fans can dive into NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition. This game delivers fast-paced basketball action with updated teams and smooth controls, making it easy to jump into the court. Finally, Monster Hunter Puzzles: Felyne Isles mixes puzzle-solving with the thrill of the Monster Hunter world. Match tiles to build your island and take on cute but challenging creatures.

    All these games are ad-free and included in an Apple Arcade subscription for $6.99 a month, with a one-month free trial for new users. You can also get it through Apple One, starting at $19.95 a month. Get ready for a fun-filled May with these awesome additions!

  • New MacBook Pro look and boosts coming in 2026

    New MacBook Pro look and boosts coming in 2026

    Apple is planning a big update for the MacBook Pro in 2026, giving it a fresh design and better features. Reports say the laptop will look slimmer and more modern, making it stand out from today’s models. This change comes after years of small tweaks, so fans are excited for something new.

    The 2026 MacBook Pro is expected to have a brighter and sharper screen, thanks to improved mini-LED technology. This means colors will pop more, and dark scenes will look deeper—perfect for movies or creative work. Plus, it might come with an OLED option, which could make the display even more stunning.

    Power-wise, the new MacBook Pro will likely get a faster chip, possibly called the M5. This upgrade should handle tough tasks like video editing or gaming with ease. Battery life could also improve, letting you work or play longer without plugging in.

    Apple might add more ports too, like an SD card slot or HDMI, which many users have missed. These extras would make it easier to connect cameras, monitors, or other gear. The keyboard and trackpad are also tipped to feel smoother and more responsive.

    This redesign shows Apple’s focus on keeping the MacBook Pro a top choice for pros and everyday users alike. While 2026 is still a ways off, the wait could be worth it for a sleeker, stronger laptop. Stay tuned for more news as it comes!