Apple Insider – Page 131

Posted on November 16, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Qualcomm might be using political campaign-style attack tactics against Apple

Definers Public Affairs, the firm Facebook hired to go on the offensive against critics after the Cambridge Analytica scandal, might be leading an attack campaign targeting Apple at the behest of Qualcomm, new evidence suggests.

Qualcomm building in San Diego, Calif.

On Wednesday, The New York Times published a scathing expose on Facebook’s response to revelations that the social network was compromised, and user data leveraged to sway political sentiment.

Part of the report focused on Facebook’s business dealings with Definers, a Washington, D.C., firm specializing in “oppo,” or opposition research. The consultant applies political campaign tactics to corporate relations, a strategy that only recently made its way to Silicon Valley when Definers set up an office there under the leadership of Tim Miller.

Facebook contracted Definers to lead a lobbying effort against its critics, including George Soros, in light of the Cambridge Analytica kerfuffle. The social media giant ended its relationship with the firm on Wednesday following the Times report.

Now it appears Definers is, or at least was, conducting a similar campaign against Apple at the direction of Qualcomm or a company with stake in an ongoing legal battle between the two companies.

As noted by the Times, a conservative news site with ties to Definers called the NTK Network published a number of articles critical of both Apple and Google. While Apple CEO Tim Cook is an outspoken critic of data mining business models, making him a potential enemy of Facebook, Definers said its work on Apple was funded by another, unnamed tech company.

Mr. Miller acknowledged that Facebook and Apple do not directly compete. Definers’ work on Apple is funded by a third technology company, he said, but Facebook has pushed back against Apple because Mr. Cook’s criticism upset Facebook.

While not confirmed, Qualcomm could be that third company.

Apple and Qualcomm are embroiled in a bitter legal battle over patent licensing, royalties, unsavory business practices and other contentious issues, with actions spanning courts, regulatory agencies and trade commissions worldwide. Qualcomm, which maintains the disagreement boils down to favorable IP pricing, has been angling for a settlement, but Apple is reportedly “gearing up for trial.”

Business Insider first linked Qualcomm to Definers on Thursday and claims Miller pitched story ideas involving Apple and Qualcomm to its reporters starting late last year. One suggestion was in regard to fines Apple was incurring with the legal action.

In June of last year, some five months after Apple fired the first shot with a $1 billion lawsuit claiming unfair licensing terms, Qualcomm sought a court order forcing Apple suppliers to continue royalty payments as the legal battle raged. Apple had instructed contract manufacturers to withhold payments on grounds that the chipmaker participates in unfair licensing practices, a decision that has added up to $7 billion in unpaid fees as of October.

Shortly after Qualcomm’s request, AppleInsider, and this reporter personally, was contacted by Miller about a potential connection between the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and Apple’s action against Qualcomm. Specifically, Miller hinted at some level of coordination between an unnamed FTC commissioner, Apple, Intel and Samsung before Apple filed its suit against Qualcomm in early 2017.

Miller did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Posted on November 15, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Another Apple supplier slashes revenue forecast, prompts speculation of weak iPhone demand

By Andrew O’Hara
Wednesday, November 14, 2018, 10:33 pm PT (01:33 am ET)

Speculation of lower than expected iPhone demand continues to weigh on Apple stock prices as yet another component supplier, AMS AG, cuts revenue estimates for the current quarter. Three other key Apple suppliers reduced their respective forecasts this week.

iPhone XS Max

Citing “recent demand change from a major consumer customer,” Austria-based AMS on Wednesday reduced expected revenue to between $480 million and $520 million, down from estimates of $570 million to $610 million provided last month, for the important holiday quarter, according to Bloomberg. AMS supplies Apple with ambient light sensors for iPhone.

A similar explanation was offered by both Japan Display and Lumentum, suppliers of iPhone screens and Face ID 3D sensors, respectively, when they slashed forecasts on Monday. Chipmaker Qorvo, which supplies iPhone RF hardware, also forecast reduced earnings this week.

Not hard evidence of a drawdown in iPhone orders, reduced earnings estimates from key providers have stoked concern about the health of Apple’s handset business.

It should be noted, however, that a true gauge of iPhone demand is elusive. Component pricing, supplier diversification and Apple’s overall manufacturing strategy create a muddled calculus for analysts to parse, meaning perceived weakness from certain production partners might not necessarily equate to lower sales volumes.

That said, Apple has struggled in recent quarters to boost iPhone sales as major markets become increasingly saturated. Last quarter, Apple’s iPhone sales were up by a single percent year-over-year, and came in flat for the just ended fourth quarter.

Apple added fuel to concerns over plateauing iPhone growth earlier this month in announcing it would no longer report unit sales for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Unit volumes are used by analysts to calculate average selling price and gauge demand for Apple products over time. Without these figures, market watchers are left to speculate based on supply chain intel, information that is circumstantial at best.

Amidst the immediate slowdown in unit growth, Apple has managed to substantially bolster revenue not by reducing prices, but by increasing them. The plan has been successful thus far, with the premium priced iPhone X goosing ASPs to an all-time high of $793 in quarter four. That trend is expected to continue with XS, XS Max and the “mid-tier” iPhone XR, which starts at $749.

It remains to be seen whether the XR will be the home run Apple bulls were hoping for. Initially predicted to be the most popular of Apple’s 2018 iPhone lineup, recent estimates cast doubt on the handset’s market performance. On Monday, TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo became the latest analyst to cut XR sales predictions to 70 million units, down from 100 million units expected in October. He cited the looming trade war with China, customer anticipation of a next-gen XR and increased competition as factors in decreased demand.

Posted on November 14, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Lowest price ever: Apple’s HomePod on sale for $249 ($100 off) with no tax in most states

By Christine McKee
Tuesday, November 13, 2018, 09:02 pm PT (12:02 am ET)

Black Friday deals are in effect now with Apple’s HomePod on sale for $249 at Apple authorized reseller B&H Photo after a $100 cash discount. What’s more, B&H will not collect sales tax in many states, and shipping is free. Supplies are limited at the special price, and the offer is likely to sell out.

$100 off Apple HomePods

Apple HomePod in Space Gray
On sale for $249.00
($100 off + free shipping & no tax in many states*)

Apple HomePod in White
On sale for $249.00
($100 off + free shipping & no tax in many states*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

Apple authorized reseller B&H Photo is back at it with a holiday discount that delivers triple digit savings on Apple’s HomePod. Now $249 after a $100 instant rebate, this deal offers shoppers the lowest price available on the smart speaker. And unlike Best Buy, which plans to offer the HomePod for the same price as a Black Friday doorbuster, you can snap up the savings now and take advantage of additional perks, such as no tax collected on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI. Shipping is also free within the contiguous U.S., putting this in your hands the quickest and for the lowest price.

Supplies are limited and the offer may sell out before its scheduled Nov. 17 expiration date.

Additional Apple Deals

AppleInsider and Apple authorized resellers are also running a handful of additional exclusive promotions this month on Apple hardware that will not only deliver the lowest prices on many of the items, but also throw in discounts on AppleCare, software and accessories. These deals are as follows:

Posted on November 13, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Apple’s camera-toting Apple Watch band employs facial recognition tech for clear FaceTime calls

Apple is investigating methods of incorporating camera hardware into its Apple Watch product lineup, focusing specifically on systems that avoid the inherent pitfalls of embedding image capturing equipment in a device not well-suited to the task.

Source: USPTO

According to a patent granted to Apple by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Tuesday, the tech giant is looking to broaden the feature set of its wearable by incorporating a novel camera system capable of automatically cropping in on subject matter, tracking objects like a user’s face and generating angle-adjusted avatars for FaceTime calls.

Apple’s U.S. Patent No. 10,129,503 for an “Image-capturing watch” details a hardware and software solution that makes a camera-toting Apple Watch not only feasible, but useful.

As noted in the property’s language, such designs would allow users to be less reliant on their iPhones, perhaps ditching the handset altogether in certain situations. With a camera-enabled Watch, users would be able to leave bulky handheld equipment behind when playing sports, working out or performing other strenuous activities.

A workable smartwatch camera solution is difficult to execute. Simply graphing a traditional handheld image capture system, like an iPhone camera, onto Apple Watch would be a user experience nightmare. Owners would be hard pressed to aim the camera at a subject without moving the entire platform — their wrist — to check framing, while at the same time dealing with a host of other concerns, from video stability to ergonomics.

To address the litany of anticipated issues, Apple proposes a system in which a wide-angle lens is fitted to a sensor built into a watch band. Alternatively, multiple cameras might simultaneously capture image data that is seamlessly stitched together to create one continuous image with a field of view that is much wider than any single-lens camera can provide.

The resulting wide-angle image reduces the need for precise aiming. Instead of framing subject matter beforehand, the final photo or video can be cropped after the fact to home in on a target or point of interest. This process can be conducted algorithmically or manually by the user.

Apple notes the technique not only works well for initial image acquisition — users need only point the lens in a target’s general direction — but also adds a new level of convenience not usually available to portable camera users. Crop-after-capture can assist in recording spur of the moment events, for example.

Illustration of teleconference call technique.

Beyond basic photography, the patent delves into teleconferencing. Here, too, Apple provides thoughtful context to the proposed technology.

In some embodiments, the watch processes a captured image and applies facial recognition software to recognize a user’s face. The device dynamically outputs a cropped image centered around the identified visage, making continuous on-the-fly adjustments to keep the face in frame even if the watch is in motion.

Perhaps most interesting is a contingency for rectifying unflattering “up nose” angles. If a user were to employ Watch in a FaceTime call, and do so without holding the device directly in front of their face as promised by Apple’s auto-cropping tech, the resulting image would at times be captured from a low vantage point.

To negate “up nose” shots, Apple proposes outputting a representation of a user’s face that appears to be taken from a straight-on perspective.

As noted in the patent, Watch’s onboard processor might generate an angle-corrected image or representation of a user’s face by compiling stored facial data, perhaps information gathered during biometric registration. Motion data captured by the camera and processed by the watch is then mapped onto the computer generated representation, which mimics a user’s facial expressions and movements in real time.

Alternatively, source motion data can be used to inform the movements of a non-human avatar like Apple’s Animoji and Memoji.

Illustration of automated cropping (top) and “up nose” angle correction.

Whether Apple intends to bring its Apple Watch camera band technology remains unknown. The company was in 2015 rumored to integrate a FaceTime camera into a future Apple Watch model, though the rumblings failed to bear fruit.

Apple’s camera watch band patent was first filed for in September 2016 and credits Seung Wook Kim and Megan A. McClain as its inventors.

Posted on November 12, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Nomad launches slim leather case for AirPods

By Andrew O’Hara
Sunday, November 11, 2018, 09:02 pm PT (12:02 am ET)

Nomad has debuted their latest accessory, a genuine leather enclosure for AirPods that not only protects the easily-scratched charging case, but makes it look great in the process.

Nomad AirPods Rugged Case in brown

Rugged Case is a two-part enclosure for your AirPods that keep things slim and is made of Horween leather, a decades old tannery based out of Chicago, known for their exceptional quality. If you’ve tried any of Nomad’s excellent iPhone cases, you should be aware of the leather’s look and feel.

One of AirPods’ owners biggest complaints to date has not been about any functionality, but the propensity of the charging case to collect copious scratches through normal use. Others have brought cases to market for Apple’s diminutive earbuds, but few have taken off with customers.

Nomad Modern Apple Watch Strap, AirPods Rugged Case, and iPhone Rugged Case in black

While we haven’t tried out Nomad’s Rugged Case for AirPods yet, at first blush it appears to be a big step up from the bulky and stiff AirSnap from Twelve South, that retails for the same price.

Stay tuned for our hands of the Rugged Case in the coming days.

Nomad’s Rugged Case for AirPods is available for preorder now for $29.95 with orders heading out the door on November 15th.

Posted on November 11, 2018 by — Leave a comment

These pre-Black Friday deals deliver the lowest prices on MacBooks, iMacs and iPad Pros

New markdowns are in effect now on Apple’s current hardware with prices starting at just $879. These triple digit discounts offer shoppers the lowest prices available, complete with free expedited shipping to get you up and running in a matter of days.

New deals have just been added to B&H’s Apple Holiday Deals page, complete with triple digit discounts on Apple hardware. Pick up a 13-inch MacBook Pro with function keys for just $1,199.00 or a 27-inch iMac 5K at up to $200 off. A small sampling of offers can be found below, while the rest of the Mac and iPad deals can be found on B&H’s Apple sale page and in our Price Guides.

Current 13″ MacBook Pros with function keys from $1,199

Apple current 13 inch MacBook Pro with function keys

Discounts are heating up on Apple’s current 13-inch MacBook Pro with function key line this week. B&H has just issued $100 markdowns on a variety of configurations with prices starting at $1,199.00. In addition to the cash discounts, B&H is throwing in free expedited shipping within the contiguous U.S. to get you up and running in a matter of days. The Apple authorized reseller also will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI, potentially saving many shoppers another $100+.

13″ MacBook Pros (non-Touch Bar)

2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 128GB) in Space Gray
On sale for $1,199.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 128GB) in Silver
On sale for $1,199.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 256GB) in Space Gray
On sale for $1,399.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 256GB) in Silver
On sale for $1,399.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 512GB) in Space Gray
On sale for $1,599.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 512GB) in Silver
On sale for $1,599.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 16GB 128GB) Silver
On sale for $1,399.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 16GB 256GB) Space Gray
On sale for $1,599.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

(See even more deals…)

Add AppleCare+

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to these 13″ MacBook Pros for $269 by selecting the AppleCare option immediately after you press the “Add to Cart” button on B&H’s website.

$150 to $200 off 2018 13″ MacBook Pros with Touch Bar

Apple 13 inch MacBook Pro with TouchBar in Space Gray Late 2018

Apple’s current 13-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is also on sale with triple digit discounts of up to $200 off. Like the non-Touch Bar models above, these MacBook Pros qualify for free expedited shipping within the contiguous U.S. for speedy delivery to your doorstep. What’s more, B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI. According to our 2018 13-inch MacBook Pro Price Guide, these bargains provide shoppers with the lowest prices available.

2018 13″ MacBook Pros with Touch Bar

2018 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (2.3GHz 16GB 256GB) Space Gray
On sale for $1,849.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (2.3GHz 16GB 256GB) Silver
On sale for $1,849.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (2.3GHz 16GB 512GB) Space Gray
On sale for $2,049.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (2.3GHz 16GB 512GB) Space Gray
On sale for $2,049.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (2.3GHz 16GB 1TB) Space Gray
On sale for $2,399.00
($200 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (2.3GHz 16GB 1TB) Silver
On sale for $2,399.00
($200 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

(See dozens more deals…)

Closeout bargains

2017 13″ Touch Bar (3.1GHz 8GB 256GB ) Space Gray | MPXV2LL/A
On sale for $1,399.00
($400 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 13″ Touch Bar (3.1GHz 8GB 256GB ) Silver | MPXX2LL/A
On sale for $1,399.00
($400 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

Add AppleCare+

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to these 13″ MacBook Pros with Touch Bar for $269 by selecting the AppleCare option immediately after you press the “Add to Cart” button on B&H’s website.

$150 to $300 off 2018 15″ MacBook Pros

Apple 2018 15 in MacBook Pro in Space Grey

Apple’s robust 15-inch MacBook Pro is marked down as well. Packed with a variety of upgrades — from additional storage to better graphics —these 2018 models are up to $300 off instantly thanks to cash rebates at B&H. With free expedited shipping and no tax outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI, these systems are great for holiday gift giving. Top picks can be found below, while a full list of discounts can be found in our 2018 15-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar Price Guide.

2018 15″ MacBook Pros with Touch Bar

2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.2GHz 16GB 512GB Radeon 555X) Space Gray
On sale for $2,449.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.2GHz 16GB 512GB Radeon 555X) Silver
On sale for $2,449.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.2GHz 16GB 1TB Radeon 555X) Space Gray
On sale for $2,849.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.2GHz 32GB 256GB Radeon 555X) Space Gray
On sale for $2,649.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.6GHz 16GB 512GB Radeon 560X) Silver
On sale for $2,499.00
($300 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.9GHz 32GB 1TB Radeon 560X) Space Gray
On sale for $3,699.00
($200 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

(See many more deals…)

Add AppleCare+

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to these 2018 15-inch MacBook Pros for $379 by selecting the AppleCare option immediately after you press the “Add to Cart” button on B&H’s website.

$120 off 2017 13″ MacBook Airs

2017 13″ MacBook Air (1.8GHz 8GB 128GB)
On sale for $879.00
($120 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)

2017 13″ MacBook Air (1.8GHz 8GB 256GB)
On sale for $1,079.00
($120 off + free expedited shipping & no tax outside NY & NJ*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

Looking for the lowest entry price into a 2017 MacBook? B&H has Apple’s Mid 2017 13-inch MacBook Air for $879.00 this week, a discount of $120 off MSRP. This cash rebate is also in addition to free expedited shipping within the contiguous U.S. and no sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

Need more storage? The 256GB model is also $120 off, bringing the price down to $1,079.00. Both of these deals offer shoppers the lowest prices available by $50 to $80, according to our 13-inch MacBook Air Price Guide.

Add AppleCare+

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to these 2017 13-inch MacBook Airs from B&H for $249 by selecting the AppleCare option immediately after you press the “Add to Cart” button on B&H’s website.

Apple iMacs on sale from just $999

B&H is also running early Black Friday deals on popular iMacs, from the standard 21.5-inch HD model for $999.00 to the base 27-inch iMac 5K for $1,699. These deals, which offer shoppers the lowest prices available, also deliver free expedited shipping within the contiguous U.S. Along with the cash savings, B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

Deals on Apple’s current iMacs

2017 21.5″ iMac HD (2.3GHz 8GB 1TB HDD)
On sale for $999.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 27″ iMac 5K (3.4GHz 8GB 1TB FUS Radeon 570)
On sale for $1,699.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 27″ iMac 5K (3.4GHz 16GB 2TB FUS Radeon 570)
On sale for $2,099.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 27″ iMac 5K (4.2GHz 8GB 1TB SSD Radeon 580)
On sale for $2,899.00
($200 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
2017 27″ iMac 5K (4.2GHz 32GB 2TB FUS Radeon 580)
On sale for $2,949.00
($150 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

(Find more deals in our Mac Price Guide…)

Add AppleCare+

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to these iMacs for $169 by selecting the AppleCare option immediately after you press the “Add to Cart” button on B&H’s website.

$80 to $100 off 10.5″ iPad Pros

Macs aren’t the only Apple devices that are marked down at B&H. The Apple authorized reseller is also knocking $80 to $100 off 10.5-inch iPad Pros with at least 256GB of space.

These tablets are compatible with Apple’s first-gen Apple Pencil, with each iPad qualifying for free expedited shipping within the contiguous U.S.

According to our 10.5-inch iPad Pro Price Guide, these deals offer shoppers the lowest prices available.

10.5″ iPad Pros

256GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Silver (Wi-Fi Only)
On sale for $719.00
($80 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
256GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Space Gray (Wi-Fi Only)
On sale for $719.00
($80 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
256GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Silver (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
On sale for $849.00
($80 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
256GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Rose Gold (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
On sale for $849.00
($80 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
512GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Silver (Wi-Fi Only)
On sale for $899.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
512GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Space Gray (Wi-Fi Only)
On sale for $899.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
512GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Gold (Wi-Fi Only)
On sale for $899.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
512GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Rose Gold (Wi-Fi Only)
On sale for $899.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
512GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Silver (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
On sale for $1,029.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
512GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Space Gray (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
On sale for $1,029.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
512GB 10.5″ iPad Pro in Gold (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
On sale for $1,029.00
($100 off + free expedited shipping & no tax in many states*)
*Free shipping is valid on orders shipped within the contiguous U.S. B&H will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside AL, HI, IL, IN, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NJ, NY, ND, OK, VT, WA and WI.

(See more iPad deals…)

Add AppleCare+

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to these iPad Pros for $99 by selecting the AppleCare option immediately after you press the “Add to Cart” button on B&H’s website.

Additional Apple Deals

Posted on November 10, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Apple launches replacement program for 13-inch MacBook Pro SSDs, warns of data loss

By Mikey Campbell
Friday, November 09, 2018, 04:25 pm PT (07:25 pm ET)

Apple on Friday confirmed a “limited number” of solid state drives used in 13-inch MacBook Pro models without Touch Bar are subject to an undisclosed issue that could result in data loss and hardware failure.

13-inch MacBook Pro without Touch Bar.

Announced in a support document, the problem is limited to 128GB and 256GB SSDs installed in 13-inch “Function Key” MacBook Pro models sold between June 2017 and June 2018. Other drive configurations are unaffected by the issue.

While the exact nature of the complication remains unknown, Apple urges MacBook Pro owners to check repair eligibility and receive drive servicing as soon as possible.

The company provides an online confirmation tool through its website, where owners can quickly enter their device serial number to confirm eligibility. Users can find their computer’s serial number by navigating to “About This Mac” in the Apple menu.

Customers who registered their device with Apple, and who have been identified as eligible based on company records, should receive an email about the program.

Eligible MacBook Pro computers can be serviced at an Apple store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider free of charge.

The program covers MacBook Pro models for three years after first retail sale.

Apple launched the 13-inch MacBook Pro without Touch Bar last summer as a more affordable alternative to its Touch Bar-equipped laptops. The company did not update non-Touch Bar models when it rolled out refreshed MacBook Pro hardware in July, though the entry-level laptop remains up for sale.

Today’s program arrives less than five months after Apple launched a separate repair initiative to deal with customer complaints questioning the reliability of the butterfly keyboard mechanism used in modern MacBook Pro models. Last year, customers began to report issues with the switch architecture, saying small amounts of dust and debris would render keys inoperable. Apple indirectly acknowledged the issue in a support document outlining a method of cleaning affected keyboards with a can of compressed air before initiating a service program to address the issue.

Posted on November 9, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Early Black Friday deals: 2018 13″ MacBook Pros on sale from $1,649; 15″ starting at $2,099 ($300 off)

The lowest prices of the year are back as Black Friday nears, with discounts of up to $300 off Apple’s current 2018 MacBook Pro. Plus, take advantage of no tax on orders shipped outside NY and NJ, and 0% financing for 12 months.

Apple Mid 2018 13 inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar coupons

2018 13″ Touch Bars on sale from $1,649

2018 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 2568GB) Space Gray | MR9Q2LL/A
On sale for $1,649.00 with coupon code APINSIDER
($150 off + no tax outside NY & NJ & 0% financing*)

2018 13″ MacBook Pro (2.3GHz 8GB 512GB) Space Gray | MR9R2LL/A
On sale for $1,799.00 with coupon code APINSIDER
($200 off + no tax outside NY & NJ & 0% financing*)
*Adorama will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside NY & NJ*.

Those looking for the best deal on Apple’s portable 2018 13-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar can save $150 to $200 this week thanks to combined instant rebates and coupon code APINSIDER at Adorama. Equipped with a quad-core processor that can Turbo Boost up to 3.8GHz, the standard configuration is marked down to $1,649.00 with the code, while the upgraded 512GB model is now $1,799.00 with the coupon, a discount of $200 off MSRP.

In addition to the cash savings, Adorama will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside New York and New Jersey*, saving many shoppers $345 to $360 compared to buying direct. Shipping is also free within the contiguous U.S., and these units are in stock and ready to ship at the reduced price.

Add AppleCare

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to these 2018 13-inch MacBook Pros for $269 by selecting the AppleCare option immediately after you press the “Add to Cart” button on the respective reseller’s website.

2018 15″ MacBook Pro for $2,099

2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.2GHz 16GB 256GB Radeon 555X) Space Gray | MR932LL/A
On sale for $2,099.00 with coupon code APINSIDER
($300 off + no tax outside NY & NJ & 0% financing*)
*Adorama will not collect sales tax outside NY & NJ*. System qualifies for no interest when paid in full within 12 months using the Adorama Credit Card.

Adorama is also bringing back some of its most popular 15-inch MacBook Pro deals just in time for the holiday season. Save $300 instantly on Apple’s standard 2018 model, which features the line’s new six-core processor, plus 16GB of memory, 256GB of storage space and Radeon Pro 555X graphics. Now $2,099.00 for the config in Space Gray, this matches the absolute lowest price we’ve seen on the 2018 15-inch models —and it’s at least $250 cheaper than other Apple authorized resellers, according to our 2018 15-inch MacBook Pro Price Guide.

On top of the rock bottom pricing, Adorama will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside New York and New Jersey*, saving many shoppers outside those two states nearly $500 compared to buying from Apple. And since Adorama is an Apple authorized reseller, you can rest assured these systems are the same factory sealed notebooks Apple sells at its own retail stores. Shipping is also free within the contiguous U.S., and AppleCare is $30 off for even greater savings.

Add AppleCare and save $30 at Adorama

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to this 2018 15-inch MacBook Pro for the discounted rate of $349 at Adorama by selecting the AppleCare option in your cart.

High-end 2018 15″ MacBook Pro for $2,499

Apple 2018 15 inch MacBook Pro with TouchBar lowest price ever

2018 15″ MacBook Pro (2.6GHz 16GB 512GB Radeon 560X) Space Gray | MR942LL/A
On sale for $2,499.00 with coupon code APINSIDER
($300 off + no tax outside NY & NJ & 0% financing*)
*Adorama will not collect sales tax outside NY & NJ*. System qualifies for no interest when paid in full within 12 months using the Adorama Credit Card.

Prefer additional storage space and top-of-the-line graphics? Adorama is also knocking $300 off Apple’s high-end Mid 2018 15-inch MacBook Pro with a 512GB SSD and Radeon Pro 560X graphics. Great for those wanting a lot of bang for their buck, this machine in the popular Space Gray color has a 2.6GHz 6-core 8th-generation Intel Core i7 CPU that can Turbo Boost up to 4.3GHz. The upgraded Radeon Pro 560X with 4GB of GDDR5 memory also provides a performance boost and is great for editing photos and videos.

Like the $2,099 model highlighted above, this premium 15-inch MacBook Pro is in stock and ready to ship with free delivery within the contiguous U.S. Adorama also will not collect sales tax on orders shipped outside New York and New Jersey*, potentially saving many shoppers $525 on average compared to shopping at the Apple Store. These are the exact same systems Apple sells, only cheaper.

Save $30 on AppleCare at Adorama

You can easily tack on an AppleCare extended protection plan to this 2018 15-inch MacBook Pro for the discounted rate of $349 at Adorama by selecting the AppleCare option in your cart.

(*) Step by Step Instructions for Coupon Deals at Adorama

1) Make sure you’re using a browser with cookies enabled that isn’t in private mode.
2) Click on the price link to the desired configuration from this article or the Adorama price links in our Price Guides. You MUST click through our links in the same shopping session that you use our coupon. If you try to save a link for late, the coupon WON’T WORK. Once you click through a price link, you’ll see a price that’s higher than advertised (we’ll fix that in a moment).
3) Add the MacBook to your cart anyway, and when you’re done shopping, begin the checkout process.
4) After you enter your shipping information, move to the Payment section during checkout.
5) Look for a link that says “Do you have a gift card or promo code?” next to the gift icon. Click that to bring up a coupon code field.

6) Enter the coupon code APINSIDER in the field and click apply. The discount should appear under “Promo Savings” above the order total.
7) That’s it. If you live outside NY & NJ Adorama will also not collect sales tax on your order.

As always, if you have any issues, you can reach out to us at priceguides@gmail.com and we’ll try and help.

(*) Step by Step Instructions for Special Financing with the Adorama Credit Card

Additional Apple Deals

Posted on November 8, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Apple reveals first Thailand store ahead of opening on Saturday

By AppleInsider Staff
Wednesday, November 07, 2018, 09:12 pm PT (12:12 am ET)

Apple on Wednesday offered a preview of its forthcoming Iconsiam outlet in Bangkok, Thailand, which will open on Saturday as the company’s first retail presence in that country.

Apple Iconsiam, the tech giant’s first Thailand store, will open its doors to customers this weekend, the company announced in a press release.

“Bangkok is a cultural and economic destination for the entire region and home to millions of passionate Apple customers,” said Angela Ahrendts, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail. “We are thrilled to introduce our Thai customers to Today at Apple, our full line of products, our phenomenal employees, and the service and support that are loved by customers around the world.”

Connected to the ICONSIAM Center, a mixed-use facility located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Apple’s new store features an open design with indoor greenery and display tables canopied by a high-flung ceiling supported by towering columns. Two large glass facades — one in back and another out front — give an airy feel to the store, which is located on an outdoor roof terrace.

Outside, a roof garden serves not only as a picturesque meeting place, but also an area ripe for Today at Apple photo and sketch walk sessions.

Indoor Today at Apple sessions will be held in a large Forum, complete with video wall and ample seating. Customers can also sit at bespoke wooden tables and chairs to learn about their newly purchased equipment or troubleshoot problems with Genius staff.

Apple Iconsiam was first spotted in October after months of rumors hinted the company would soon open a store in Thailand. The outlet provides locals access to unique Apple services, like the aforementioned Today at Apple sessions and Genius Grove, for the first time.

Along with Creative Pros and Geniuses, Apple Iconsiam employs more than 100 people, the company said.

Apple Iconsiam opens on Saturday at 10 a.m. local time.

Posted on November 6, 2018 by — Leave a comment

Qualcomm must license modem tech to rivals like Intel, court rules

By Roger Fingas
Tuesday, November 06, 2018, 01:50 pm PT (04:50 pm ET)

Denying a motion to delay court proceedings while settlement talks are ongoing, U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh on Tuesday issued a preliminary ruling against Qualcomm in the Federal Trade Commission’s antitrust lawsuit.

Qualcomm must license some of the patents it holds for smartphone modems to firms like Intel, Koh ruled according to Reuters. The company is accused of forcing companies like Apple to buy its wireless chips in exchange for better patent royalty rates.

In fact Apple was in an exclusive modem supply arrangement with Qualcomm for several years, but started mixing in Intel chips with 2016’s iPhone 7, and is now Intel-only with the iPhone XS and XR.

The FTC case is related to an Apple action dating back to January 2017. Apple filed a $1 billion lawsuit shortly thereafter, marking the beginning of a global legal war, compounded by actions from various government bodies and Qualcomm accusations that Apple handed trade secrets to Intel to improve chip performance.

In August, Qualcomm reached a settlement with Taiwanese antitrust regulators, avoiding a $773 million fine in exchange for paying $93 million and investing $700 million in the country over the course of five years. It has also made deals with parties like Samsung, which like Apple is a major phone customer.