After months of teasers and leaks, the Powerbeats Pro 2 were finally announced by Apple today. A key new feature built into the Powerbeats Pro 2 is heart rate monitoring, and that functionality is expected to expand to AirPods in the future.


When both Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds are placed in the ears, and heart rate monitoring is active, Apple says LED optical sensors pulse at over 100 times per second to measure heart rate via blood flow. The feature integrates with popular fitness apps to collect data during workouts and sync it to the Apple Health app on the iPhone.

The feature is based on the Apple Watch's heart rate sensing technology. If someone is wearing both Powerbeats Pro 2 and an Apple Watch, Apple says apps will default to using Apple Watch heart rate data, and it will likely be the same for future AirPods.

In his coverage of the Powerbeats Pro 2 announcement today, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reiterated that new AirPods with heart rate monitoring are "still many months away" from launching. The feature is likely to be available on the AirPods Pro 3, which are currently expected to launch in late 2025 at the earliest.
This article, "New AirPods With Powerbeats Pro 2's Heart Rate Monitoring Feature Still 'Months Away'" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Through February 20, Boston-based RR Auction is auctioning a rare Apple Computer business card signed by Steve Jobs. RR Auction says the business card is from around 1983, and it lists Jobs as Chairman of Apple's Board of Directors.


The business card has been authenticated by well-known memorabilia grading service PSA, which rated it a "Gem Mint 10," aka a "virtually perfect card."

The next bid is already set at nearly $50,000, but note that a similar Jobs-signed business card sold for just over $181,000 at auction last year.

Jobs passed away in 2011 at the age of 56. Throughout his career, he was reluctant to sign autographs, so items with his signature on them often sell for large sums of money. In 2023, for example, a check signed by Jobs sold for over $100,000 at auction.
This article, "Got $50,000? You Can Bid on This Business Card Signed by Steve Jobs" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

In an emailed press release today, Apple revealed two additional games that will be available through Apple Arcade starting Thursday, March 6. Those games are Piano Tiles 2+ and Crazy Eights: Card Games+ for the iPhone and iPad.


Piano Tiles 2+ description:

The original and all-time classic piano game is getting fine-tuned with exciting new features for Apple Arcade. Players around the world can tap along to their favorite tunes, joining over 1 billion fans in this satisfying rhythm game. Players must avoid the white tiles and tap the black ones in perfect sync with the melody to achieve the highest score. With smoother gameplay, no ads, and an expansive music library featuring genres like classical, dance, and ragtime, Piano Tiles 2+ delivers endless challenges.

Crazy Eights: Card Games+ description:

Crazy Eights: Card Games+ is the classic card game reimagined with unique new rules, an exciting competitive leaderboard, various modes, and fun new themes. Players match cards by color or number in a race to shed their hand first, offering an engaging mix of luck and fast-paced strategy. With unique twists like stacking +2 cards, strategic Wild 8, Skip Queen, and Reverse Ace cards – every round becomes a fun battle of wits.

Accessible through the App Store, Apple Arcade is a subscription-based service that provides access to hundreds of games across the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro, all free of ads and in-app purchases. In the U.S., Apple Arcade costs $6.99 per month and is bundled with other Apple services in all Apple One plans.
This article, "Apple Arcade Adding Two New Games in March" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Tap to Pay on iPhone continues to expand to additional countries and platforms around the world, with payments company Deluxe being the latest to adopt it.


Small businesses and merchants can offer Tap to Pay on iPhone through Deluxe's app dlxPAY.

Launched in 2022, Tap to Pay on iPhone allows businesses to accept contactless payments on an iPhone, with no additional point-of-sale hardware like a Square Terminal required. The feature allows customers to pay by simply tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch, contactless credit card or debit card, or other contactless payment option on the merchant's iPhone. Payment is securely completed using the same NFC technology behind Apple Pay.

Tap to Pay on iPhone is now available in the following countries:

• Australia


• Austria


• Brazil


• Canada


• Chile


• Czechia


• France


• Germany


• Ireland


• Italy


• Japan


• The Netherlands


• New Zealand


• Romania


• Sweden


• Taiwan


• United Arab Emirates


• Ukraine


• United Kingdom


• United States

Here are some major platforms that support Tap to Pay on iPhone:

• Square


• Stripe


• Clover


• Zettle by PayPal


• Venmo


• Chase for Business


• GoDaddy


• Adyen


• Revolut


• Viva


• Zeller

This article, "Here's Where 'Tap to Pay on iPhone' is Available" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple's Beats brand is officially introducing the Powerbeats Pro 2 today, bringing significant updates to the wireless earphones aimed at active users. Among the upgrades for Powerbeats Pro 2 are Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with Transparency mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, an H2 chip for improved power efficiency and Apple ecosystem integration, and for the first time in an Apple audio product, Heart Rate Monitoring.


We got an early preview of the ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 a couple of weeks ago and have been able to spend additional time with them since then, so be sure to check out our hands-on video above for full impressions, and read on below for details on the specs.

Apple has been teasing the Powerbeats Pro 2 with celebrity appearances since last year, so we've known for quite a while that they feature a redesigned body but retain their trademark earhook that helps secure them during vigorous physical activity.

With the ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2, the earhook is 50 percent smaller than on the original ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ and has been reinforced with a nickel–titanium alloy for greater flexibility and comfort, making it easy to slip on while ensuring it snaps back into shape for a secure fit. An IPX4 rating means ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 are sweat and water resistant, while upgraded venting and a fifth ear tip size (XS, S, M, L, XL included) help ensure a comfortable fit.


The redesigned body reduces weight by 20 percent compared to the original ‌Powerbeats Pro‌, but efficiency improvements delivered by the H2 chip boost battery life of the buds themselves to 10 hours with ANC off compared to 9 hours with the previous generation. The onboard battery in the case pushes total battery life to 45 hours, up significantly from the previous 24 hours even though the case is 33 percent smaller. The case is also the first ever from Beats to support wireless Qi charging in addition to USB-C.

On the audio performance side, the ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 feature a redesigned acoustic architecture with a custom-designed dual-layer transducer plus a host of modern Apple earphone features that were missing from the previous generation: Active Noise Cancellation with Transparency mode to selectively allow outside sound in, Adaptive EQ to adjust frequencies in real-time for optimal sound, and Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking to make it feel like sound remains anchored to the device that's playing it.


‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 are also the first Beats product to support Lossless Audio with ultra-low latency, optimized for Vision Pro with the H2 chips in both devices working together to deliver an immersive audio/video experience with Apple's headset.

A key new feature for active users is Heart Rate Monitoring, a feature MacRumors discovered some time ago based on code in Apple's software updates. When both earbuds are in the ears and Heart Rate Monitoring is active, LED optical sensors pulse at over 100 times per second to measure heart rate via blood flow, integrating with popular fitness apps to collect data during workouts and sync it to the Apple Health app. Supported apps at launch include Open (meditation), Peloton (various fitness workouts), Runna (running), Slopes (skiing), Ladder (strength training), Nike Run Club (running), and YaoYao (jump roping).


For iOS users, Heart Rate Monitoring automatically begins when a workout is started in a compatible app, and it automatically ends when the workout is stopped. Android users will need to manually turn on Heart Rate Monitoring via the earbuds themselves or in the Beats app, but monitoring will automatically end when the workout is completed.

Apple says that when a user is wearing both an Apple Watch and ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2, apps and Apple Health will default to using data from the Apple Watch, a choice Apple made to not disrupt the existing base of Apple Watch users who have already been tracking heart rate data. Apple notes, however, that both methods have been thoroughly validated and should yield similar results.

‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 can also be paired to compatible gym equipment to enable at-a-glance viewing as you work out.


Thanks to the H2 chip, you can expect the full suite of Apple integration features with ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2, including one-touch pairing, automatic switching between devices via iCloud, Audio Sharing to allow multiple people to listen to the same audio source, hands-free Siri, and Find My support. Android users get many of the same features through the Beats app, including one-touch pairing, Heart Rate Monitoring control, customizable functionality, and a Find My-like Locate My Beats function.

‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 include the iconic "b" logo button on each earbud, and you can customize the press-and-hold gesture to either cycle through Noise Control modes or activate ‌Siri‌. Quicker single and double presses of the "b" button perform traditional functions like play/pause, track skip, and answer/mute/end calls. Each earbud also features a tactile volume rocker, making it easy to adjust volume right from your earbud without needing to mess with your connected device.


Each earbud includes three microphones and a voice accelerometer, leveraging advanced computational audio and machine-learning algorithms to optimize call performance with features like Voice Isolation to reduct background noise.

‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 are available to order at apple.com starting today in four colors: Electric Orange, Hyper Purple, Jet Black, and Quick Sand. They're available at the same $249.99 price point as the previous generation, and they will be on store shelves starting this Thursday, February 13.
This article, "Powerbeats Pro 2 Debut With Heart Rate Monitoring, H2 Chip, Active Noise Cancellation, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple in recent months "passed over" the Chinese artificial intelligence company DeepSeek, according to The Information.


DeepSeek has garnered significant media attention over the past few weeks, as it developed an artificial intelligence model at a lower cost and with reduced power consumption compared to competitors. However, the U.S. and some other countries have moved to ban DeepSeek on government devices due to privacy concerns.

Apple is required to work with a local Chinese company to develop artificial intelligence models for devices sold in China. The report said Apple had targeted Baidu as its partner last year, but Apple eventually decided that Baidu did not meet its standards, leading it to assess models from other companies in recent months.

The report said Apple has assessed models developed by Alibaba, Tencent, and ByteDance, and it appears to be moving forward on a partnership with Alibaba at this time. Apple and Alibaba have submitted a first set of artificial intelligence features that they co-developed to China's cyberspace regulator for approval, the report said.

Apple Intelligence will gain support for additional languages this year, including Chinese, according to Apple. The next set of new languages are coming in an April software update. However, this Chinese language support might be limited to countries outside of China until if and when Apple Intelligence is approved to launch there.
This article, "Apple Reportedly 'Passed Over' DeepSeek as Apple Intelligence Partner" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

If the audio playing through your Apple Watch Series 10's speaker becomes harder to hear after repeated use, you are not alone.


There are a growing number of complaints about a potential Apple Watch Series 10 speaker issue across the Apple Support Community and Reddit. Affected users say the speaker audio becomes quiet or muffled over time, even after using the Water Lock feature to eject water from the speaker following swimming or another water activity.

The low volume affects both phone calls and music, according to the complaints.

It is unclear how widespread this issue is, or if there is an underlying hardware or software problem. If a hardware issue affects enough customers, Apple sometimes opts to launch a service program offering free repairs. If a software issue is discovered, then Apple should be able to address it with a future watchOS update.

Apple Watch Series 10 models launched in September 2024. I was unable to replicate the issue on my Apple Watch Series 10, but I have only owned it for about six weeks and have not used the speaker much, as I tend to use AirPods Pro.

We have reached out to Apple for comment about this matter, and we will update this post in the unlikely event that the company responds.
This article, "Some Apple Watch Series 10 Users Experiencing Speaker Volume Issue" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

There are several ways to search the web in Apple's Safari browser. In this article, we're going to highlight a way of searching specific websites using a lesser-known Safari feature called Quick Website Search.


The option is designed to work with sites that have a built-in search field, like the one you can find at the top of the main page at MacRumors.com. Here's how it works.

Let's say you want to look up articles on MacRumors that mention device benchmarks. You might do this by typing "macrumors benchmarks" into Safari's address bar to get results from whichever search engine the browser is configured to use.


If you're a bit more search savvy, you might even type "site:macrumors.com benchmarks" to limit the search to MacRumors. But ideally you'd just navigate to MacRumors.com and use the search field provided at the top of the page. If you take the latter option and Quick Website Search is enabled, Safari will remember that you've used the MacRumors search field and offer to use it again in future searches that include the website's name.


For example, if you typed "macrumors" followed by "deals" directly into Safari's address bar, you could tap the option Search macrumors.com for "deals" in the suggestions box, as shown above, and you'd get instant results from MacRumors' own on-site search function.

How to Enable Quick Website Search in iOS

The functionality of Quick Website Search depends on how a given site implements its search field, but we've found that it works with most popular websites that offer them, so it's worth making sure you have the feature enabled. To do this on iPhone and iPad, launch the Settings app, tap through to Apps ➝ Safari ➝ Quick Website Search and slide the Quick Website Search toggle to the green ON position.


Notice on this screen that you can also tap Edit to remove websites from the list of shortcuts that Safari automatically adds to whenever you use a site-specific search field.

How to Enable Quick Website Search on Mac

The feature works the same way in Safari for macOS. To see if it's enabled in the browser, select Safari ➝ Settings... from the menu bar, choose the Search tab, and make sure the checkbox is ticked next to Enable Quick Website Search.


Lastly, if you click the Manage Websites... button next to the checkbox, you can view Safari's list of website shortcuts, remove individual websites, or clear the list completely.
This article, "Use Safari Quick Website Search for Faster Site-Specific Results" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Elon Musk on Monday led a consortium of investors in making a $97.4 billion unsolicited offer to acquire ChatGPT maker OpenAI's nonprofit arm – only to face immediate rejection from CEO Sam Altman.


The Wall Street Journal reports that the bid included backing from Musk's artificial intelligence company xAI and prominent investors like Valor Equity Partners and Baron Capital. Musk co-founded OpenAI as a charity with Altman in 2015.

"It's time for OpenAI to return to the open-source, safety-focused force for good it once was," Musk said in a statement through his lawyer Marc Toberoff. The consortium pledged to match or exceed any competing offers.

Altman quickly dismissed the proposal on X (formerly Twitter) with a pointed response: "No thank you but we will buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want" – an apparent jab at Musk's $44 billion acquisition of Twitter in 2022.

Musk responded to the post with a one-word reply: "Swindler."

The attempted takeover comes amid OpenAI's ongoing transition from a nonprofit to a for-profit structure, with the company recently valued at $157 billion. The transformation has been contentious between Musk and his former colleagues. There have been multiple lawsuits where Musk has accused OpenAI of betraying its founding principles.

In a message to employees reported by WSJ, Altman reassured staff that OpenAI's structure prevents any individual from taking control of the company, describing Musk's offer as "tactics to try and weaken us because we are making great progress."

The bid's investor group included other backers such as Atreides Management, Vy Capital, and 8VC, a venture firm led by Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale, along with Hollywood executive Ari Emanuel's investment fund.
This article, "OpenAI Swiftly Rebuffs Musk's Surprise $97.4 Billion Buyout Attempt" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Google has announced that NotebookLM Plus, its advanced AI-powered research and note-taking tool, is now included with Google One AI Premium subscriptions at no additional cost to consumers.


If you haven't come across it before, NotebookLM functions as an AI research companion that helps users analyze and interact with their documents, websites, and other content. The tool can generate summaries, create FAQ lists, produce timeline views, and even transform research materials into podcast-style audio discussions with AI-generated hosts. Google originally launched it in 2023, and then launched its NotebookLM Plus plan for businesses, schools, organizations, and enterprise customers in December.

The Plus version significantly expands on the free tier's capabilities, offering five times higher usage limits. The free version allows for 100 notebooks with 50 sources each, while Plus subscribers can create up to 500 notebooks containing 300 sources per notebook. Daily interaction limits are also increased from 50 to 500 chat queries, and audio generation capacity jumps from 3 to 20 per day.

In addition to the above, NotebookLM Plus introduces several premium features, including customizable response styles, advanced sharing options, and analytics that track notebook usage. Users can choose between predefined AI personalities like "Guide" or "Analyst," or create their own custom style for interactions.

A Google One AI Premium plan costs $19.99 per month and includes 2TB of storage along with access to Gemini Advanced and Gemini integration in Gmail and Google Docs. A one-month trial is available at no cost. Google is also offering U.S. students aged 18 and older a 50% discount, bringing the monthly cost down to $9.99 for the first year.
This article, "NotebookLM Plus Now Available in Google One AI Premium Subscription" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Some users are reporting that Apple's latest software updates are quietly re-enabling Apple Intelligence features, even after they had explicitly disabled them in the previous update.


If you're catching up, Apple on Monday pushed out new macOS Sequoia 15.3.1 and iOS/iPadOS 18.3.1 point releases that include important security fixes and are recommended for all users. Shortly after the rollout, software developer Jeff Johnson collated some early reports complaining about the apparent behavior, noting that devices displaying a Welcome screen after updating were particularly susceptible to having Apple Intelligence automatically re-enabled.

Indeed, MacRumors testing confirms this behavior on certain devices. In our tests using an M4 Pro Mac mini, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, and M4 iPad Pro – all with Apple Intelligence previously disabled in iOS/iPadOS 18.3 and macOS 15.3 – we found that while the iPhones and iPad maintained their disabled status after updating to iOS/iPadOS 18.3.1, the Mac mini automatically re-enabled the feature after updating.

The key trigger does seem to be the appearance of a Welcome screen announcing Apple Intelligence features. We saw it on the M4 Pro Mac mini after updating to macOS 15.3.1, but not on the iPhones or iPad Pro. Notably, unlike typical setup screens, this one lacks the usual "Set Up Later" option, effectively forcing you to proceed with enabling the feature.


This automatic re-enabling obviously raises concerns about user choice, particularly given that Apple Intelligence requires up to 7GB of storage space on each device where it's activated. The storage requirement stems from the need to download and maintain local AI models for Apple's privacy-focused processing. Apple in macOS Sequoia 15.3 and iOS/iPadOS 18.3 controversially made Apple Intelligence an opt-out feature, meaning it is turned on automatically on compatible devices.

• Save 7GB of iPhone Storage Just by Toggling This Switch

Users who prefer to keep Apple Intelligence disabled should verify their settings after updating. On iPhone and iPad, check that the Apple Intelligence toggle is off in Settings → Apple Intelligence & Siri. Mac users can find the toggle in System Settings → Apple Intelligence & Siri. Did you update to iOS/iPadOS 18.3.1 or macOS Sequoia 15.3.1 overnight? Let us know in the comments what your experience was.
This article, "Apple's Latest Updates Re-Enable Apple Intelligence on Some Devices" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple plans to release a MacBook Air with an improved LCD display in 2027, featuring Oxide TFT technology instead of the current amorphous silicon (a-Si) panels, according to a new report from The Elec.


The new display technology is said to be a significant upgrade over current MacBook Air screens. Oxide TFT LCD panels offer better power efficiency and improved performance compared to traditional a-Si displays, resulting in sharper images, smoother scrolling, and enhanced battery life.

The transition to Oxide TFT technology should also mean faster pixel response times and more consistent brightness across the screen. In practical terms, this should translate to reduced motion blur when watching videos or gaming, and more uniform lighting without the "clouding" effect sometimes visible on current LCD displays.

Samsung Display and BOE are developing manufacturing capabilities for the advanced panels, according to the Korean-language report. Samsung Display is installing new deposition machines at its A6 production line, while BOE is constructing its B16 line with similar capabilities. The companies are preparing to produce millions of units annually, but the exact production targets haven't been disclosed.

The LCD upgrade comes as Apple has reportedly delayed its OLED MacBook Air plans from 2027 to 2029 or later. Meanwhile, development of the OLED MacBook Pro with a thinner design reportedly continues as planned, with that model expected to launch in 2026 with an estimated production of 3 to 5 million units annually.
This article, "MacBook Air to Get More Advanced LCD Panel Before Transition to OLED" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple's first OLED MacBook Pro remains on schedule for a 2026 release, featuring the new slimmer design Apple is rumored to be working on, based on a new report from The Elec.


Samsung Display is said to be currently producing test samples of the OLED panels on its first deposition machine, which was installed in November 2024. However, industry projections estimate just 3 to 5 million OLED panels to be shipped annually for the MacBook Pro. Given that the supplier's IT 8th-generation OLED line is designed to produce 10 million units annually (based on 14.3-inch OLED panels), the company will need to secure additional customers to maximize its production efficiency.

Previous rumors have similarly claimed the MacBook Pro will switch to OLED display technology as early as 2026. The upcoming MacBook Pro will utilize hybrid OLED technology, similar to that used in Apple's latest iPad Pro. This display technology combines a glass substrate with thin-film encapsulation, offering improved brightness, contrast, and power efficiency compared to current MacBook Pro models with mini-LED screens.

Samsung Display has reportedly invested approximately $3 billion in its IT 8th-generation OLED production line for the laptop-sized panels. Chinese display maker BOE is also developing manufacturing capabilities for hybrid OLED panels, though its production line will be more versatile, capable of producing both hybrid and flexible OLED displays.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and display industry analyst Ross Young both recently predicted that the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro will continue to have mini-LED displays in 2025. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has said he expects only a small performance boost for the 2025 MacBook Pro models, with M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips that are "already near completion."

• 5 Reasons to Wait for Next Year's MacBook Pro

Gurman has previously reported that Apple is working to make the OLED MacBook Pro significantly thinner, as part of the company's plan to create "the thinnest and lightest products in their categories across the whole tech industry." Indeed, the reporter has said there's a good chance that the 2026 MacBook Pro model will represent a "true overhaul" for the laptop, thanks to the combination of the OLED display and thinner design.
This article, "OLED MacBook Pro With Thinner Design on Track for 2026 Launch" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Fort Lauderdale resident Daniel Vallaire suffered a devastating stroke last year, and it ended up being Siri that provided life saving help.


Just days before his 70th birthday, Vallaire collapsed in his bathroom. He spent the next 48 hours crawling "inch by inch by inch" from the bathroom to the living room in an attempt to get help. He was confused, had no strength, and ended up severely dehydrated.

Vallaire wasn't able to get to the phone or place a call, so he yelled to ‌Siri‌ to call his daughter, Victoria. ‌Siri‌ placed the call and his daughter was able to then relay the emergency to 911, and emergency responders arrived within 10 minutes.

"I said, '‌Siri‌, call Victoria Vallaire,' and she did," Vallaire told a local news station. "If I had a landline, there's no way I would be able to get to it." He went on to say that if he didn't have ‌Siri‌, he "wouldn't be here."

After emergency crews rescued him, the hospital found that he had a stroke caused by an infection in two of his aortic valves. Vallaire was able to reunite with the medical team that saved his life earlier this month. He said that he was grateful that he skirted death, and suggested that others "be conscious" of heart health.

‌Siri‌ and other Apple safety features like Crash Detection, Fall Detection, and Emergency SOS have been responsible for saving many lives. ‌Siri‌ is available across all Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Vision Pro, HomePod, and Apple TV.
This article, "Siri Provides Stroke Victim With Life Saving Help" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple CEO Tim Cook spent the weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana, which is where Super Bowl LIX was held on Sunday. Cook visited several locations in New Orleans, and chronicled the trip in a short social media video.


Cook started his trip off visiting Harry Connick Jr. at the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music (EMCM), known for youth music education. Apple funds EMCM with Apple technology and grants to sponsor young musicians.

He then visited Domilise's Po-Boy for a meal with NFL wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., and met up with country singer Shaboozey. After that, Cook took a trip to the Apple Music Radio Studio that was hosting daily Super Bowl LIX broadcasts featuring New Orleans music, and he stopped by the Apple location at Lakeside Shopping Center to meet up with students learning to use GarageBand.


Ahead of the Super Bowl, Cook saw the NFL Host Committee Parade, which included an Apple Music-sponsored float that young artists from Arts New Orleans designed using an iPad and Apple Pencil.

Cook then attended the Super Bowl and watched the ‌Apple Music‌ Super Bowl LIX halftime show with Kendrick Lamar. Cook's short video on his trip ends with a thank you to the city of New Orleans for hosting him.
This article, "Apple CEO Tim Cook Visited New Orleans for Super Bowl" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

If you have been waiting for Apple's rumored smart home hub to launch, prepare to wait some more. In his Power On newsletter over the weekend, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said the device is still "months away" from shipping.


Based on that wording, the home hub will not ship until April at the earliest, but potentially not until much later in the year. Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the device would enter mass production in the second half of 2025, so it is quite possible the home hub will be announced in September or later.

Gurman previously said the home hub will be "Apple's most significant release of the year," as it represents the company's "first step toward a bigger role in the smart home." He said the device will be like a "smaller and cheaper iPad" that lets users "control appliances, conduct FaceTime chats, and handle other tasks."

The device is expected to be similar to a HomePod with a screen, with rumored features including a 6-inch or 7-inch display, an A18 chip, and Apple Intelligence support. Gurman said it can be attached to a tabletop base with a speaker, or mounted on a wall.

The home hub will run a new "homeOS" operating system with a customizable widget-focused home screen, and revolve around Siri, Apple Intelligence, and HomeKit, according to Gurman. The device could double as a home security system by displaying camera footage, and a built-in camera would allow for FaceTime video calls.

Apple's hub would compete with products like Google's Nest Hub and Amazon's Echo Show. It is unclear if Apple will use HomePod or HomePad branding for the device, or if it will opt for a fully unique name, such as the Apple Home.


This article, "Apple's Rumored Smart Home Hub Still 'Months Away' From Shipping" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple typically releases new iPhone color options every year as a mid-product cycle refresh, so when can we expect a new finish in 2025?


Apple has added new ‌iPhone‌ colors on six occasions in the past, consistently in either the March or April following an ‌iPhone‌'s launch:

• iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: (PRODUCT)RED (Tuesday, March 21, 2017)


• iPhone 8 and 8 Plus: (PRODUCT)RED (Monday, April 9, 2018)


• iPhone 12 and 12 mini: Purple (Tuesday, April 20, 2021)


• iPhone 13 and 13 mini: Green (Tuesday, March 8, 2022)


• iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max: Alpine Green (Tuesday, March 8, 2022)


• iPhone 14 and 14 Plus: Yellow (Tuesday, March 7, 2023)

There are currently no rumors about new color options for the iPhone 16, and it's possible Apple could skip this year like it did for the ‌iPhone‌ XR, ‌iPhone‌ 11, and iPhone 15 in 2019, 2020, and 2024. That being said, Apple has released new colors many more times than it has chosen not to do so since 2017, so a refresh is possible this year, but given Apple didn't do so last year, it's far from certain.

Apple has only ever added new "Pro" model color options once, in 2022, so while it's theoretically possible this year, it is perhaps more unlikely than likely.

The ‌iPhone 16‌ is available in Black, White, Teal, Pink, and Ultramarine. A new red, yellow, purple, or grey seem possible since these have all been offered on ‌iPhone‌ models in the past and are not too similar to any of the existing shades. There are usually rumors that point to which new color to expect, but it may still be a little too early for this based on previous years.
This article, "Will Apple Release New iPhone 16 Colors This Year?" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

There continue to be signs of a new MacBook Air with an M4 chip, indicating that we could see the machine launch in the not too distant future. A private account on X today shared the identifiers that the ‌MacBook Air‌ will use, and those identifiers correspond to the M4 chip.


According to the source, both the 13-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ and the 15-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ will be equipped with Apple's "T8132" chip, which is the M4 SoC.

Apple inadvertently confirmed the upcoming M4 ‌MacBook Air‌ machines back in December when the macOS Sequoia 15.2 release included files for unreleased "Mac16,12" and "Mac16,13" machines. The files referenced the "‌‌MacBook Air‌‌ (13-inch, M4, 2025)" and the "‌‌MacBook Air‌‌ (15-inch, M4, 2025)."

Since then, we've just been waiting for the new ‌MacBook Air‌ models to launch. There's no word on when they're coming, but as Bloomberg's Mark Gurman pointed out over the weekend, existing stock of the M3 ‌MacBook Air‌ models is dwindling, suggesting a launch is coming soon.

Apple is expected to debut the iPhone SE 4 and the new Powerbeats Pro 2 as soon as tomorrow, and the ‌MacBook Air‌ could come sometime after that in the next few weeks.
This article, "M4 MacBook Air Release Continues to Appear Imminent" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

The iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1 updates that Apple released today include an important security fix, and it's important to install the new software as soon as possible because this bug was exploited in the wild.


According to Apple's security support document for iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1, it addresses an accessibility vulnerability that could disable USB Restricted Mode on a locked device.

Exploiting this vulnerability requires physical access to a device, and Apple says that it was used against specific individuals.

Impact: A physical attack may disable USB Restricted Mode on a locked device. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals.

The vulnerability was fixed with improved state management, according to Apple. Note that Apple has also released iPadOS 17.7.5 with the same security fix for devices that are not able to run iPadOS 18.

You will want to install iOS 18.3.1 if you have an iPhone compatible with iOS 18 in order to ensure you are protected from vulnerabilities. The same goes for iPadOS 18.3.1 or iPadOS 17.7.5 depending on which iPad you have.
This article, "Make Sure to Update: iOS 18.3.1 Includes Fix for Actively Exploited Vulnerability" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple today released macOS Sequoia 15.3.1, a minor update to the ‌macOS Sequoia‌ operating system that came out last September. macOS 15.3.1 comes a few weeks after the launch of ‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.3.


Mac users can download the ‌‌‌‌macOS Sequoia‌‌‌‌ update through the Software Update section of System Settings. Apple has also released macOS 13.7.4 and macOS 14.7.4 for those who are running older versions of macOS.

According to Apple's release notes, ‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.3.1 includes important security fixes, and it is recommended for all users.
This article, "Apple Releases macOS Sequoia 15.3.1" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple today released iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1, minor updates for the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 operating systems that came out last September. iOS 18.3.1 comes two weeks after Apple released iOS 18.3.


The new software can be downloaded on eligible iPhones and iPads over-the-air by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Apple has also released iPadOS 17.7.5 for those still running iPadOS 17.

According to Apple's release notes, iOS 18.3.1 includes bug fixes and security updates.

iOS 18.3.1 will be followed by iOS 18.4, an update that we are expecting to see released in April. The first iOS 18.4 beta is could come as soon as this week.
This article, "Apple Releases iOS 18.3.1 With Bug Fixes" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple today released visionOS 2.3.1, a minor update to the visionOS 2 operating system that came out in September. visionOS 2.3.1 comes two weeks after the launch of visionOS 2.3, and more than a year after the release of the Vision Pro headset.


visionOS 2.3 can be downloaded on all Vision Pro headsets by navigating to the Settings app, selecting the General section, and choosing the Software Update option.

To install an update, the Vision Pro headset needs to be removed, and there is a software progress bar available on the front EyeSight display.

According to Apple's release notes, visionOS 2.3 includes security updates, and the software is recommended for all users.

More information on the Vision Pro and ‌visionOS 2‌ can be found in our roundup.
This article, "Apple Releases visionOS 2.3.1" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple today released watchOS 11.3.1, a minor update to the operating system that runs on the Apple Watch. watchOS 11.3.1 is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6 and later, all Apple Watch Ultra models, and the Apple Watch SE 2.


watchOS 11.3.1 can be downloaded by opening up the Apple Watch app and going to General > Software Update. To install the new software, the Apple Watch needs to have at least 50 percent battery and it needs to be placed on a charger.

The watchOS 11.3.1 update includes important security updates, and it is recommended for all Apple Watch owners.

More of the features available in watchOS 11 can be found in our watchOS 11 roundup.
This article, "Apple Releases watchOS 11.3.1" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

A report from The New York Times over the weekend highlighted the trend of people wearing an Apple Watch on their ankles, instead of the wrist.


The report highlighted reasons why some people prefer to wear the Apple Watch on the ankle:

• Some people with tiny wrists find the Apple Watch fits too loosely for heart rate sensing.


• Some people with wrist tattoos believe the ink may interfere with heart rate sensing, which is something that Apple acknowledges in a support document. Apple says some tattoos can "block light" from the heart rate sensor on the bottom of the Apple Watch, making it "difficult to get reliable readings."


• Some people believe the Apple Watch provides more accurate step counting when it is worn on the ankle, compared to the wrist.


• Some people with skin conditions prefer to wear the Apple Watch on the ankle.


• Some medical professionals cannot wear anything on their wrists.

Apple has not commented on the report, but its support documents and white papers for the Apple Watch mention that the device's heart rate and calorie measuring functions are validated for wear on the wrist, with no mention of the ankle anywhere. Apple has not publicly come out and advised people against wearing the Apple Watch on the ankle, but it is not something that its documentation acknowledges at this time.
This article, "Wearing an Apple Watch on the Ankle? New Report Explains the Trend" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple today updated its Sports app for the iPhone with NASCAR support, ahead of the annual Daytona 500 race on Sunday, February 16.


The release notes for version 2.5 of the Apple Sports app:

• Start your engines! NASCAR is now on Apple Sports. Get live race coverage and leaderboard updates, starting with the Daytona 500.
• Spring Training is here. Follow your favorite teams as they get ready for the MLB season.

Launched in February 2024, the Apple Sports app shows scores, stats, standings, upcoming games, and more for a variety of leagues, such as the NFL, MLB, MLS, NBA, NHL, Premier League, and others. The free iPhone app is available in the App Store.
This article, "Apple Sports App Updated With NASCAR Support Ahead of Daytona 500" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple's long-awaited Powerbeats Pro 2 are finally expected to be announced this Tuesday. Ahead of time, one lucky Walmart customer was able to get their hands on the earbuds early, according to a since-deleted Reddit post over the weekend.


"My local Walmart had them in the cage," the Reddit user explained. "I asked if I can buy them [and] he said yes."

Apple already shared a Powerbeats Pro 2 teaser video last year, revealing that the earbuds have a slimmer and more vertical design compared to the original Powerbeats Pro from 2019. Other rumored features include the H2 chip from the AirPods Pro 2, heart rate monitoring for workouts, new color options like Electric Orange, and more.

With the H2 chip, the Powerbeats Pro 2 should offer active noise cancellation, which is something the original Powerbeats Pro lack. The chip should also enable better sound quality and longer battery life compared to the original Powerbeats Pro.

In the United States, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are expected to cost $249.

Update: Shortly after we published, the Reddit post was deleted.
This article, "Powerbeats Pro 2 Given to Customer Early, Expected to Debut Tomorrow" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Best Buy's Presidents' Day sale began today, offering sitewide discounts on appliances, TVs, video games, and Apple products. One of the biggest categories getting discounted is Apple iPads, including record low prices on the 10th generation iPad, iPad mini 7, M2 iPad Air, and M4 iPad Pro.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

10th Gen iPad

Best Buy has nearly every model of the 10th generation iPad for $70 off this week. Prices start at $279.00 for the 64GB Wi-Fi iPad, which is a match of the best price we've tracked so far in 2025 and an overall second-best price on the tablet.




You'll also find the 256GB Wi-Fi iPad on sale for $429.00, down from $499.00. Both Wi-Fi models are available at these $70 discounts in all four colors: Yellow, Silver, Pink, and Blue.

iPad Mini 7

Best Buy this week is providing record low prices on multiple models of the iPad mini 7, starting at $399.00 for the 128GB Wi-Fi tablet, down from $499.00.

M2 iPad Air

Best Buy has nearly every model of Apple's M2 iPad Air on sale this week at $100 off, all of which are matching the record low prices for each tablet. You'll also find some of the higher storage capacities reaching $200 off this week.

11-inch iPad Air

• 128GB Wi-Fi - $499.00 ($100 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 256GB Wi-Fi - $599.00 ($100 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 512GB Wi-Fi - $799.00 ($100 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 1TB Wi-Fi - $899.00 ($200 off) [only at Amazon]

13-inch iPad Air

• 128GB Wi-Fi - $699.00 ($100 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 256GB Wi-Fi - $799.00 ($100 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 512GB Wi-Fi - $899.00 ($200 off) [only at Amazon]


• 1TB Wi-Fi - $1,099.00 ($200 off) [only at Amazon]

M4 iPad Pro

Similar to the iPad Air tablets, Best Buy is providing record low prices on Apple's M4 iPad Pro this week. For the 11-inch models, you'll need to be a My Best Buy Plus/Total member in order to see these all-time low prices.

The same stipulations don't apply to 13-inch models, which are available without coupons or the need of a membership. Every price listed below is the match of an all-time low price on each iPad Pro model.

11-Inch iPad Pro - Wi-Fi

• 256GB Wi-Fi - $849.00 ($150 off) [Best Buy members]


• 512GB Wi-Fi - $1,049.00 ($150 off) [Best Buy members]


• 1TB Wi-Fi - $1,449.00 ($150 off) [Best Buy members]

13-Inch iPad Pro - Wi-Fi

• 256GB Wi-Fi - $1,099.00 ($200 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 512GB Wi-Fi - $1,299.00 ($200 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 1TB Wi-Fi - $1,699.00 ($200 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 1TB Wi-Fi with Nano-Texture Glass - $1,799.00 ($200 off) [matched at Amazon]


• 2TB Wi-Fi - $2,099.00 ($200 off) [matched at Amazon]

If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.

---

This article, "Best Buy Presidents' Day Sale Includes Major iPad Discounts, Get Up to $200 Off iPad Pro, iPad Air, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Just minutes after Super Bowl LIX ended on Sunday, Apple shared a short video promoting its MLS Season Pass subscription service.


Whether you call it football, fútbol, or soccer, the sport with the round ball returns soon.

"When football ends, fútbol begins," says the video, which features MLS star Lionel Messi. With the NFL season now over, Apple is using the opportunity to promote the upcoming MLS season, which kicks off Saturday, February 22.

In the United States, MLS Season Pass is priced at $14.99 per month or $99 per season, and it provides access to all regular season and playoff matches. MLS Season Pass is available in the Apple TV app on Apple devices, most smart TVs, and many other streaming devices and game consoles, as well as on the web at tv.apple.com.

2025 marks the third year of a 10-year partnership between Apple and Major League Soccer.


With the introduction of Sunday Night Soccer, Apple TV+ subscribers will also be able to watch a featured MLS match every Sunday evening during the upcoming 2025 season, at no additional cost. In the United States, Apple TV+ is priced at $9.99 per month or $99 per year, and it is also included in all Apple One subscription bundles.

Apple TV+ now offers Friday Night Baseball for MLB and Sunday Night Soccer for MLS, as part of its growing professional sports portfolio.

The inaugural Sunday Night Soccer matchup will see the newest MLS team, the San Diego FC, make their debut against the reigning MLS Cup champions, the LA Galaxy, on Sunday, February 23 at 7 p.m. Eastern Time.
This article, "Apple Promotes MLS Season Pass: 'When Football Ends, Fútbol Begins'" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Amazon today has the USB-C AirPods Max on sale for $479.99 in every color, down from $549.00. This is a second-best price on the USB-C headphones, and only the second time in 2025 that we've tracked any notable sale.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Colors available on sale include Blue, Midnight, Orange, Starlight, and Purple. All colors are still available to be delivered in February, with most providing a delivery estimate around February 15 for free shipping options. Prime members in certain cities should be able to see same-day delivery options.



If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.

---

This article, "Amazon Discounts USB-C AirPods Max to $479.99 ($69 Off)" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Stationery Pad is a handy way to nix a step in your workflow if you regularly use document templates on your Mac. The long-standing Finder feature essentially tells a file's parent application to open a copy of it by default, ensuring that the original file remains unedited.


Stationery Pad doesn't get much attention these days, but it's a neat alternative to repeatedly editing templates and using the "Save As..." command, which can lead to overwriting the original file if you're not too careful.

Almost any file type can be defined as a template with Stationery Pad – it could be used to streamline common Photoshop jobs, create skeleton HTML/CSS files, or help with Word document invoicing. To make use of Stationery Pad, create the file you want to use as a template, then follow the steps below.

Define a File as a Template Using Stationery Pad

1. Find the file in Finder that you want to use as a template.
   
2. Right-click (or Ctrl-click) the file and select Get Info in the contextual dropdown menu. Alternatively, click the file to select it and use the Command+I keyboard shortcut to launch Get Info.
   
   
3. Check the Stationery Pad checkbox under the General section.
   
   
4. Click the red traffic light button to close the Get Info window.

Next time you double-click the template file, Finder will create and open a copy of it, leaving the original untouched. To reverse the behavior, simply uncheck the Stationery Pad checkbox in the template file's Get Info window.
This article, "Make Any File a Template Using This Hidden macOS Tool" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple has been ramping up hiring for its robotics research and engineering teams to help spur the development of home robotics devices, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.


The company is currently in the early stages of developing a tabletop robot and has its sights set on potentially creating a humanoid model in the future.

The robotics work is being spearheaded by two departments within Apple: the Home Labs hardware engineering group and Kevin Lynch's AI special projects team. These teams originated from Apple's now-defunct self-driving car unit, which was disbanded last February.

Over the past several weeks, Apple has posted numerous job listings for robotics specialists, stating that new hires will have "the opportunity to work with a small team of highly skilled engineers and scientists to bring new experiences to Apple products."

Last month, a team of robotics researchers at Apple published a research paper and accompanying video showcasing a lamp-like robot prototype with lifelike movements. The robot, reminiscent of Pixar's mascot Luxo Jr., demonstrates various interactions with a person, such as responding to weather inquiries, providing lighting for iPhone photography, reminding the person to drink water, and even dancing along to music as a social companion.

While the research paper provided a glimpse into Apple's robotics experimentation, Gurman has previously reported that the company is developing a tabletop robot with an "iPad-like display" attached to a robotic limb. This device, which could launch by 2027, is expected to be primarily controlled with Siri and Apple Intelligence, with the ability to respond to commands like "look at me" during FaceTime video calls.

Gurman believes Apple's tabletop robot is likely to be something closer to a HomePod smart speaker with a screen attached to a robotic limb, and it could turn out to be a higher-end version of Apple's rumored smart home hub, which is expected to launch this year.
This article, "Apple Ramps Up Hiring for Work on Home Robotics Devices" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Oppo has confirmed a February 20 global launch for its Find N5, which the company claims is the world's thinnest device in the foldable phone category. The phone is expected to be re-branded as the OnePlus Open 2 in the US.


The Chinese vendor has been teasing the device in the last few weeks, touting its waterproofing and nearly invisible display crease, and highlighting its thinness by comparing it to Apple devices like the iPad Pro, which is Apple's thinnest device to date.

Oppo has shared a trailer of the Find N5, calling it "Slim, yet powerful." Reports suggest the Find N5 is around 4mm thick. That beats the Honor Magic V3, which up until now was considered the thinnest foldable, which is 4.35mm thick when unfolded.

The video also reveals some additional features, including a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, an alert slider, and a cut-down camera bump. The ad shows the device in Cosmic Black and Misty White colors, but not the Twilight Purple color that is expected to be exclusive to the Chinese market.

The smartphone market is currently fascinated with thinness. Samsung recently teased its super-thin Galaxy S25 Edge, following reports that Apple is planning to launch a so-called iPhone 17 Air in September. The rumored device, which will replace the Plus model in its flagship lineup, is expected to be Apple's thinnest iPhone to date.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that the iPhone 17 Air will be 5.5mm thick at its thinnest point, which likely means that it will have a 5.5mm chassis with a thicker rear camera bump area.


The thinnest iPhone we've seen so far was the iPhone 6, which measured in at 6.9mm. iPhones got thicker with the iPhone X and beyond, as Apple increased thickness to provide more space for the battery, camera lenses, Face ID hardware, and more.
This article, "World's Thinnest Foldable Phone Launches Next Week" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple supplier BOE is again facing issues with its OLED panel production for iPhones, prompting Apple to consider redirecting orders to Samsung Display and LG Display, according to sources in Korea (via OLED-info).


The Chinese display manufacturer has reportedly been struggling to meet Apple's quality standards for LTPS AMOLED displays intended for iPhone 14, 15, and 16 models. Since the beginning of 2024, BOE has only managed to deliver approximately 7-8 million panels to Apple, falling drastically short of its roughly 40 million unit orders.

The quality issues are expected to take at least six weeks to resolve. Meanwhile, industry insiders suggest that Samsung Display is likely to receive the majority of any redirected orders, since LG Display's production capacity is primarily focused on manufacturing LTPO AMOLED displays for iPhone "Pro" models.

This is just the latest setback in BOE's troubled history with iPhone OLED production. The company faced similar challenges in 2023 when it struggled with light leakage issues around the Dynamic Island cutout for iPhone 15 displays, leading Apple to reduce orders significantly.
This article, "Apple May Drop iPhone Display Supplier Over Quality Issues" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

If you missed the Apple Music Halftime Show during Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans tonight, or simply want to rewatch it, a video of the full performance is now available for playback on the NFL's official YouTube channel.


We would have embedded the video here, but the NFL is not allowing that right now, so use the direct link to watch it on YouTube.

This year's Apple Music Halftime Show featured hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar. Other stars who appeared on stage alongside Lamar included singer SZA, producer Mustard, former professional tennis player Serena Williams, and actor Samuel L. Jackson.
This article, "Watch the Apple Music Halftime Show With Kendrick Lamar — Full Video" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

T-Mobile today announced that its Starlink satellite feature is now available in public beta, meaning anyone in the U.S. with a compatible iPhone or Android smartphone can sign up to test the off-the-grid connectivity, even if they use another carrier like AT&T or Verizon. Starlink is a subsidiary of Elon Musk's SpaceX.


Approved beta testers can use the Starlink satellite connectivity for free until July, with limited spots available. Afterwards, T-Mobile customers with a Go5G Next plan or another eligible plan will continue to have access to the feature at no additional cost, while T-Mobile customers with other plans can add the service for $15 per month, per line. Anyone else using a different carrier will be able to access the service for $20 per month, per line.

T-Mobile customers who register for the beta before the end of February will be eligible for a discounted price of $10 per month starting in July.

In most outdoor areas of the U.S. where cellular service is unavailable, a compatible iPhone or Android smartphone enrolled in the T-Mobile Starlink beta will automatically connect to one of hundreds of Starlink satellites in space, allowing for iMessages and SMS messages to be sent and received when there is no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.

T-Mobile says Starlink support for voice calls and mobile data is coming later.

In a support document, Apple says the iPhone will display "SAT" in the status bar when the device is using a carrier-provided satellite feature, such as T-Mobile Starlink. To turn off a carrier-provided satellite feature, open the Settings app, tap Cellular, tap on your carrier or phone number, and toggle off Satellite.

Here is what Apple says is required:

• iPhone 14, iPhone 15, or iPhone 16 (all models)


• The latest version of iOS


• A supported carrier


• Some carriers might require a supported cellular plan

If this sounds familiar, that is because Apple already offers satellite connectivity for free on all iPhone 14 models and newer, in partnership with Globalstar. iPhones can use both Apple's satellite features, and those provided by a carrier.

Apple's satellite connectivity was initially limited to communication with emergency services, but iOS 18 added the ability to send and receive iMessages and SMS messages to anyone via satellite. iPhone users can also update their location in the Find My app via satellite, and arrange roadside assistance via satellite. All of these features are available in the U.S., but availability varies in other countries. The features are free to use for now.

Starlink has a larger satellite constellation than Globalstar, and connectivity is established automatically, without needing to manually point the iPhone at the sky.
This article, "iPhone Users Can Sign Up to Try Starlink Connectivity For Free Until July" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple today increased its estimated trade-in values for select Mac models in the United States, with the full changes outlined below.


Apple says the extra trade-in credit for select Macs is available with the purchase of an eligible new Apple device through April 2.

The trade-in values increased by between $10 and $50.

Model	New Value	Old Value
MacBook Pro	Up to $925	Up to $915
MacBook Air	Up to $435	Up to $425
MacBook	Up to $140	Up to $90
iMac	Up to $315	Up to $305
iMac Pro	Up to $455	Up to $405
Mac mini	Up to $375	Up to $365
Mac Studio	Up to $1,150	Up to $1,140
Mac Pro	Up to $720	Up to $670

Trade-ins can be completed on Apple's website or at an Apple Store, and the credit can be applied towards the purchase of a new Apple product, or placed on an Apple gift card for later use. Visit the trade-in page on Apple's website for more details.
This article, "Apple Increases Mac Trade-In Values for a Limited Time" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

We're less than one week away from Valentine's Day, which falls on Friday, February 14, this year. Similar to years past, many third-party Apple resellers and accessory companies have opened up notable discounts on Apple products and accessories to coincide with the holiday.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Additionally, there are a few solid discounts on Apple products like AirPods, Apple Watch, iMac, and iPad. In this article you'll find deals from third-party retailers collected first, including special Valentine's Day themed sales from AT&T, ZAGG, Casely, and more.

Valentine's Accessory Sales

• Best Buy - Purchase $100 Apple gift card, get a $10 Best Buy e-gift card


• Anker - BOGO 50% off


• Sonos - Get up to 25% off soundbars, speakers, and subwoofers


• AT&T - iPhone 16 Pro at no cost with eligible trade-in


• Samsung - Save up to $1,250 when purchasing the new Galaxy S25 smartphones


• Twelve South - Get $30 off HiRise 3 Deluxe


• ZAGG - Save 30% off your entire cart when you purchase two or more products


• Casely - Get 15% off sitewide with code LOVE15

AirPods

Amazon this week has major discounts on a few AirPods models, including a new all-time low price on the AirPods 4. You can get the base AirPods 4 for $99.99 on Amazon, down from $129.00.



Amazon also has the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation for $148.99, down from $179.00. We did track these at a lower price during the 2024 holiday season, but that deal never returned and today's is the best we've seen so far in 2025.



Additionally, you can get the AirPods Pro 2 for $169.00 today on Amazon, down from $249.00. This is the lowest price we've tracked so far in 2025 on the AirPods Pro 2, and it's an overall solid second-best price.

Apple Watch

Amazon is discounting the 40mm GPS Apple Watch SE to $169.00 today, down from $249.00. This is the best price we've tracked so far in 2025, and it's available in Starlight, Silver, and Midnight Aluminum color options.



Additionally, you can get the 44mm GPS Apple Watch SE at an all-time low price of $199.00 today on Amazon, down from $279.00. This one is also available in Midnight, Silver, and Starlight Aluminum colors, and multiple band sizes.



For Series 10 models, Amazon also has all-time low prices on these devices. You'll find $70 off both 42mm and 46mm GPS Apple Watch Series 10 in multiple case and band colors. Prices start at $329.00 for the 42mm GPS model and increase to $359.00 for the 46mm GPS model.

iPad

There are numerous iPads on sale in early February, and we're starting with a $70 discount on the 10th generation model at Amazon. You can get the 64GB Wi-Fi iPad for $279.00, down from $349.00, which is the best price we've tracked in 2025 so far and an overall second-best price.




Amazon this week is providing record low prices on multiple models of the iPad mini 7, starting at $399.00 for the 128GB Wi-Fi tablet, down from $499.00. Best Buy is also matching every one of these deals, and in some cases it has better delivery estimates.

Apple Accessories

We're tracking a few notable discounts on Apple accessories on Amazon below, as well as a great deal on the MagSafe Duo Charger at Woot.

• AirTag 1 Pack - $22.99, down from $29.00


• AirTag 4 Pack - $69.99, down from $99.00


• Apple Pencil Pro - $99.00, down from $129.00


• Apple Pencil USB-C - $69.99, down from $79.00


• Apple Studio Display (Standard Glass) - $1,299.99, down from $1,599.00


• Apple Studio Display (Nano-texture Glass) - $1,599.99, down from $1,899.00


• Magic Keyboard Folio (10th Gen iPad) - $199.00, down from $249.00

Keep up with all of this week's best discounts on Apple products and related accessories in our dedicated Apple Deals roundup.

---

This article, "Valentine's Day Deals: Get All-Time Low Prices on AirPods, iPad, Apple Watch, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Apple plans to announce a new iPhone SE this week, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.


In his Power On newsletter today, and a corresponding social media post, Gurman said the new iPhone SE is "coming this week." Until now, he said that Apple planned to announce the device "as early as" this week, but his wording is now more firm.

Apple has not scheduled an event, so the new iPhone SE will likely be announced in a press release published on the Apple Newsroom website.

The so-called iPhone SE 4 is rumored to feature a mix of iPhone 14 and iPhone 16 features, including a 6.1-inch OLED display, Face ID, a USB-C port, a single 48-megapixel rear camera, and the first Apple-designed 5G modem. With the A18 chip, and a rumored 8GB of RAM, the device is also expected to support Apple Intelligence.

The current iPhone SE resembles an iPhone 8, with outdated features such as an A15 Bionic chip, Touch ID home button, Lightning port, and thick bezels around the display. Pricing starts at $429, but a price increase towards $499 seems probable for the next model.
This article, "Gurman: New iPhone SE Coming 'This Week'" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Super Bowl LIX kicks off today. In the U.S., the game will be streaming for free in upscaled 4K on FOX's ad-supported streaming service Tubi, which is available on the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro, and many other devices.


This year, the Kansas City Chiefs are facing the Philadelphia Eagles at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The Chiefs are looking to win three consecutive Super Bowl championships, while the Eagles are looking for revenge after losing to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII two years ago, so the stakes are high for both teams.

To watch Super Bowl LIX for free, simply install the Tubi app from the App Store on your Apple device of choice, create a free Tubi account, sign in, and start the stream. FOX's pre-game coverage will begin streaming on Tubi at 11 a.m. Eastern Time, while the Super Bowl show starts at 6 p.m., ahead of a 6:30 p.m. kickoff.


No subscription or trial is necessary.

Tubi's stream of Super Bowl LIX will include the Apple Music Halftime Show, featuring hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar. Rest assured that Tubi will also show the same Super Bowl commercials that will air on FOX's cable TV broadcast.

It appears that Apple will have at least one Super Bowl commercial this year. On YouTube, Apple has shared a "big game trailer" for the upcoming Apple TV+ series The Studio, in which Seth Rogen stars as the newly appointed head of an embattled movie studio, Continental Studios. The trailer itself features Johnny Knoxville and Josh Hutcherson.


Apple's CEO Tim Cook, services chief Eddy Cue, and retail chief Deirdre O'Brien have been spotted in the New Orleans area today, ahead of Super Bowl LIX.

MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris assisted with this story.
This article, "How to Watch Super Bowl LIX Free on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

Amazon this weekend has Apple's AirPods Pro 2 for $169.00, down from $249.00. This is the lowest price that we've tracked so far in 2025, and Amazon is providing a mid February delivery estimate for most residences in the United States.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Although we saw a better deal over the holiday season, it's very unlikely that all-time low price will return any time soon. Amazon's price today is still a solid deal on the AirPods Pro 2, which feature USB-C charging and Active Noise Cancellation.



AirPods discounts are abundant this week on Amazon, which also has the AirPods 4 for just $99.99 and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation for $148.99. If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week.

---

This article, "AirPods Pro 2 Hit Lowest Price of the Year So Far at $169 ($80 Off)" first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums