Category: Apple Insider

AppleInsider News

Posted on 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

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

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 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

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’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’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

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 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.

MacBook Pro

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 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.

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

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

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 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 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 offices

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.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Blind comparison of photography on the iPhone XR versus Google Pixel 3 XL

Comparing the iPhone XS Max’s camera to the shooter on Google’s Pixel 3 XL is a bit unfair, given the iPhone has a telephoto lens and costs $200 more. The iPhone XR has a single lens camera, just like the Pixel 3 XL, and it’s actually $150 cheaper than Google’s flagship, but will that work in the Pixel 3 XL’s favor?

The Blind Test

There’s been a lot of talk claiming the Pixel 3’s camera is the best in the business, though our earlier test against the iPhone XS Max suggested otherwise. The change in cameras from two to one in the iPhone XR gives another opportunity for Google to claw its imaging credentials back when put against Apple’s latest iPhone.

[embedded content]

In this blind A-B test, there are 15 images shot with each phone. If you want to play along, make a note of which images you prefer from each pair. The devices are identified below the gallery, so be careful if you don’t want to spoil the surprise.

For all of the photographs in the blind test, image A was from the iPhone XR, while image B was taken on the Pixel 3 XL.

A Closer Look

While image preferences are largely subjective and can differ between people, in my case I found I like the Google Pixel 3 XL photographs better overall. Here’s why.

In this first photo, the iPhone just lacks contrast and looks a little bit too warm. The story’s exactly the same in this photo. As for this one, the Pixel completely bombed the white balance, making it unrealistically blue.

One interesting thing is that the Pixel automatically crops in 2x while taking portrait photos, which also adds more blur and makes the background look more compressed.

Here, the Pixel is still too blue, and prefer the blur edging more on the iPhone.

In this one, the iPhone looks a lot more natural, but the Pixel did better job at bringing the shadows up.

In this coffee shop, the white balance is better on the iPhone, but the Pixel 3 XL produced sharper detail.

Here, the Pixel 3 messed up the white balance, but in the opposite direction. It’s now way too orange.

In this shot where we zoomed in as close as we could, the Pixel got closer and looked more detailed, despite the aggressive noise reduction.

In this one, we actually framed the shot the same by getting closer on the iPhone XR, since you can’t zoom in with a portrait photo, and it really showed the difference in compression. Because of this, the Pixel looks better.

In this selfie photo, the iPhone XR looks better because the face and background are brighter and the colors really pop.

Here, the iPhone’s photo just looks really dull, which is honestly what it looked like in real life, but the Pixel 3’s photo is more pleasing to the eye.

Zooming in, the Pixel could get closer and you can see more detail on the sign as well. Definitely a win for Google’s flagship here.

Now testing dynamic range, the Pixel actually blows out the brightest part of the sky, and I myself am darker than I am on the iPhone. The roof itself is way too blue on the pixel, so that’s a win for the iPhone.

This photo basically illustrates the fact that you can’t take portrait photos of objects on the iPhone XR, which is really unfortunate because of how great the blur looks on the Pixel.

And finally, we see the same thing here. The Pixel’s photo just looks so much better with the blur.

In conclusion, the iPhone did a much better job with white balance accuracy, but it wasn’t enough to beat the Pixel 3 XL because that phone crops in 2x for portrait mode photos. The cropping makes the background look less compressed because you have to stand farther away.

You can’t zoom in before taking a portrait photo on iPhone XR, though you can crop in in post. Not everyone is willing to do that, however.

The Pixel 3 XL is also able to take portrait photos of objects, making those shots look so much better.

Not only that, but the iPhone’s photos lack contrast, making the Pixel’s photos look more detailed.

Overall, we’ve got to give the win to the Pixel 3 XL.

If you want the best in photo quality, the iPhone XS Max performed better than the Pixel 3 XL in our photo and video tests. The extra telephoto lens not only improves blur edging, but adds compression to portrait photos and improves zoom quality.

Deals on the iPhone XR and Google Pixel 3 XL

If you haven’t already ordered Apple’s iPhone XR, wireless carriers are incentivizing the purchase. Want to get your hands on a new device asap? eBay sellers are also shipping units now.

Carrier deals:

  • AT&T Wireless: Buy one iPhone XR, get a second $700 off when you add a line.
  • Verizon Wireless: Buy an iPhone XR and get a save up to $300 with a qualifying trade.
  • Sprint: Get the 64GB iPhone XR for $0 per month with eligible trade-in and Sprint Flex lease.
  • T-Mobile: Save up to $390 on the iPhone XR with an eligible iPhone trade.

Those interested in purchasing the Google Pixel 3 XL can save up to $300 with an eligible trade at Verizon Wireless.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

iPhone XS versus iPhone X – which phone unlocks faster with Face ID

The iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max are all packing Apple’s second-generation Face ID, an updated version of the biometric authentication system which is supposed to be faster than the version introduced with the iPhone X. Is there actually a noticeable difference between the already-fast and the potentially faster versions in the real world?

Testing Face ID speeds on the iPhone X versus iPhone XS

Testing Face ID speeds on the iPhone X versus iPhone XS

The theory

Face ID uses machine learning algorithms and the Neural Engine built into the iPhone’s processor to analyze and recognize scans of the user’s face made by the TrueDepth camera system, the array of sensors located in the notch at the top of the screen. In the unlocking process, the iPhone has to make a depth map of the user’s face using the sensors, which is then compared with a mathematical representation of the registered user’s face stored in the Secure Enclave, a task that can largely be improved just by increasing processing performance.

[embedded content]

Along with other processor-related improvements expected from the A12 chip in the 2018 releases, the Neural Engine has been upgraded from a dual-core design to an 8-core version, making it capable of running at 5 trillion operations per second than the 600 billion operations offered by the version in the A11.

By this measure alone, this should make a Face ID check take less time, but Apple has also claimed that the Face ID algorithms in the new phones are faster as well. The only real way to find out is to put last year’s iPhone X up against the iPhone XS and to see if there is much of a difference.

The trial

To make the tests as fair as possible, my face was rescanned on both phones under the exact same lighting conditions. While the iPhone X will have updated its stored depth map data over time, it would be best for testing purposes if both devices share as close to identical data as possible.

To determine a winner in each case, footage of the unlocking process was examined frame-by-frame, to see which completed the home screen animation first. For the initial 15-round run, the iPhone XS was fastest 11 times, a tie was declared 4 times, and the iPhone X failed to finish first at all.

Testing different angles for Face ID unlock on the iPhone X versus iPhone XS

Testing different angles for Face ID unlock on the iPhone X versus iPhone XS

While the test revealed the second-generation Face ID is generally faster than the first-generation version, the fact that it had to be checked on a frame-by-frame basis strongly suggests most users won’t notice a sudden jump in performance just by looking at it.

The same test was conducted again, but under low light conditions. In this second trial, not only did the iPhone XS win every single time, but in three instances out of seven, it was very noticeable, even without slowing the video down. It seems that darker conditions give the newer models an advantage.

Lastly, it was decided to try and find issues with Face ID just by trying to unlock at weird angles to the face, and in the process discovered a weak spot for the iPhone X while holding it near the user’s legs. While the iPhone XS unlocked every single time in this situation, the iPhone X had to be lifted up a bit in order to unlock.

Other than that single situation, both iPhones did equally well for practically all tested angles.

The result

So let’s answer the original question: is the second-generation Face ID on the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR faster than the first-generation version used on the iPhone X? Yes, it is, but for the majority of real-world situations, it won’t make that much of a difference to most people. There was a bigger improvement in low light, but it’s still not that much faster overall.

It seems that Face ID is just as usable as before, and probably just as secure, but only a hair faster.

Further tests are planned for the iPhone XR, which AppleInsider will be putting through its paces soon, but given the similar specifications, it is probably going to be a similar story as for the iPhone XS for Face ID.

Deals on the iPhone XS and XS Max

If you haven’t already ordered Apple’s iPhone XS or XS Max, wireless carriers are incentivizing the purchase. Want to get your hands on a new device asap? eBay sellers are also shipping units now.

Carrier deals:

  • AT&T Wireless: Buy one iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max, get a second $700 off when you add a line.
  • Verizon Wireless: Buy an iPhone XS or XS Max and save up to $300 with a qualifying trade.
  • Sprint: Get the 64GB iPhone XS for half off with eligible trade-in and Sprint Flex lease.
  • T-Mobile: Save up to $390 on the iPhone XS with an eligible iPhone trade.

Keep up with AppleInsider’s coverage by downloading the AppleInsider app for iOS, and follow us on YouTube, Twitter @appleinsider and Facebook for live, late-breaking coverage. You can also check out our official Instagram account for exclusive photos.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Apple HomePods are on sale for $269 ($80 off) today only

 

By Christine McKee
Saturday, November 03, 2018, 01:22 pm PT (04:22 pm ET)

Woot is knocking $80 off Apple’s HomePod in open box condition today only. Now $269.99 while supplies last, this is the lowest price anywhere for the smart speaker. Since Woot is owned by Amazon, Prime members can also take advantage of free shipping for added value.

$80 off Apple HomePods

Apple HomePod in White or Space Gray
On sale for $269.99
($80 off + free shipping for Prime members*)
*Requires Amazon Prime membership for free shipping.

Woot is back at it with one-day only Apple deals, and this time the HomePod is seeing an $80 markdown. Pick up Apple’s HomePod in White or Space Gray for just $269.99 today only. And since Woot is an Amazon owned company, shipping is free for Prime members.

According to Woot, these HomePods are in open box conditiontion and come with a 90-day Woot warranty. In comparison, you would have to pay full MSRP from other retailers for a new unit, according to our Smart Speaker Price Guide.

This deal is valid on Nov. 3 only while supplies last. Woot’s Apple deals have been known to sell out early, so don’t delay if you want to take advantage of the special offer.

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 by — Leave a comment

Apple, other tech giants sign letter opposing Trump administration’s attempt to define gender

Apple and more than 50 major U.S. companies drafted a letter this week supporting the legal rights of transgender people as the Trump administration reportedly considers narrowing gender definitions.

Cook Trump

Apple CEO Tim Cook at then U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump’s tech summit in 2016.

The cadre of big-name brands, which includes tech giants Apple, Amazon, Facebook, Google, Microsoft and others, threw their collective weight behind a letter opposing potential Trump administration efforts to define gender by biological traits identified at birth, reports CBNC.

The letter is in response to a The New York Times report that earlier this month shined a light on efforts to reverse legal protections afforded to transgender individuals instated during the Obama administration.

A Department of Health and Human Services memo obtained by the Times reveals a push to establish a legal definition of sex under Title IX, the civil rights law banning gender discrimination in education programs receiving financial assistance from the federal government. Language in the memo suggests the Trump administration is considering a more narrow definition of gender, more specifically one that is based on birth genitalia.

“Sex means a person’s status as male or female based on immutable biological traits identifiable by or before birth,” the memo said, according to the Times. “The sex listed on a person’s birth certificate, as originally issued, shall constitute definitive proof of a person’s sex unless rebutted by reliable genetic evidence.”

The department drafted and has been circulating the memo since last spring. Under the proposal, an estimated 1.4 million Americans who identify as a gender other than the one they were assigned at birth could lose Title IX protections, the report said.

In its letter this week, the more than 50 U.S. companies rebuked the proposal in no uncertain terms.

“We oppose any administrative and legislative efforts to erase transgender protections through reinterpretation of existing laws and regulations,” the letter reads. “We also fundamentally oppose any policy or regulation that violates the privacy rights of those that identify as transgender, gender nonbinary, or intersex.”

While Apple has a history of speaking out on LGBT issues — condemning Trump’s withdrawal of protections for transgender public bathroom use and decrying a ban on transgender soldiers, for example — the wider tech community stays largely silent on such matters.

The letter in its entirety:

We, the undersigned businesses, stand with the millions of people in America who identify as transgender, gender nonbinary or intersex, and call for all such people to be treated with the respect and dignity everyone deserves.

We oppose any administrative and legislative efforts to erase transgender protections through reinterpretation of existing laws and regulations. We also fundamentally oppose any policy or regulation that violates the privacy rights of those that identify as transgender, gender nonbinary, or intersex.

In the last two decades, dozens of federal courts have affirmed the rights and identities of transgender people. Cognizant of growing medical and scientific consensus, courts have recognized that policies that force people into a binary gender definition determined by birth anatomy fail to reflect the complex realities of gender identity and human biology.

Recognizing that diversity and inclusion are good for business, and that discrimination imposes enormous productivity costs (and exerts undue burdens), hundreds of companies, including the undersigned, have continued to expand inclusion for transgender people across corporate America.

Currently more than 80 percent of the Fortune 500 have clear gender identity protections; two-thirds have transgender-inclusive health care coverage; hundreds have LGBTQ+ and Allies business resource groups and internal training efforts.

Transgender people are our beloved family members and friends, and our valued team members. What harms transgender people harms our companies.

We call for respect and transparency in policymaking, and for equality under the law for transgender people.


The letter was signed by Accenture, Adobe Systems Inc., Airbnb, Altria Group, Amalgamated Bank, Amazon, American Airlines, Apple, Automatic Data Processing Inc. (ADP), Bank of America, Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, BNY Mellon, Cargill, Cisco Systems Inc., Citi, Clifford Chance, Corning Incorporated, Corteva Agriscience, Deutsche Bank, E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Facebook, Fastly, Inc., Google, Hogan Lovells International LLP, HSBC, IBM Corporation, Intel Corporation, Intuit Inc., Iron Mountain, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Levi Strauss & Co., LinkedIn, Lush Handmade Cosmetics, Lyft, Marriott International, MassMutual, MGM Resorts International, Microsoft Corp., Nike Inc., PepsiCo, Replacements, Ltd., Ropes & Gray, Royal Bank of Canada, S&P Global, Salesforce, Sheppard Mullin, Sodexo Inc., Splunk, State Street Corporation, The Coca-Cola Company, The Dow Chemical Company, TiVo Corporation, Trillium Asset Management, Twitter Inc., Uber and Warby Parker.

Editor’s note: Due to its political nature, comments for this article have been disabled.