MacRumors: Mac News and Rumors - All Stories https://www.macrumors.com Apple, iPhone, iPad, Mac News and Rumors Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:51:26 PDT en hourly 1 https://www.macrumors.com Spotify Launches Fitness Hub With 1,400+ Peloton Workouts https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/spotify-launches-fitness-hub/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/spotify-launches-fitness-hub-with-1-400-peloton-workouts.2481604/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:05:57 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/spotify-launches-fitness-hub/ Hartley Charlton Peloton Spotify launched a new Fitness hub, bringing over 1,400 on-demand Peloton workout classes to Premium subscribers alongside a range of free content from independent wellness creators.


The Peloton classes span strength, cardio, yoga, pilates, barre, meditation, stretching, and outdoor run and walk, and require no specialist equipment. Peloton's bike workouts are not included. The catalog is available in the U.S., UK, Australia, Germany, Austria, Canada, Mexico, Sweden, and Spain, with Spotify saying it will expand to more countries over time.

Both free and Premium subscribers can access curated playlists and content from a range of established wellness creators, including Yoga With Kassandra, Caitlin K'eli Yoga, Sweaty Studio, Chloe Ting, Pilates Body by Raven, Abi Mills Wellness, and Sophiereidfit. The Peloton partnership content, featuring instructors such as Rebecca Kennedy, Ally Love, and Rad Lopez, is available to Premium subscribers only, ad-free.

The Fitness hub includes an onboarding questionnaire that asks users what type of movement they want, how hard they want to push, and their experience level, then generates a personalized starter pack. Classes are primarily in English, with select options in Spanish and German. Offline downloads are supported, and users can switch between watching a class on TV and listening on a phone or smart speaker in audio-only mode.

Nearly 70% of Premium subscribers apparently work out monthly, and there are more than 150 million fitness playlists active on the platform. Fitness and workout content also ranks among the top use cases for the company's recently launched AI-powered Prompted Playlist feature.

The Fitness hub is accessible by searching "fitness" in the Spotify app's Search tab, or via the "Browse all" menu.
Tags: Peloton, Spotify

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]]> Fourth macOS Tahoe 26.5 Beta Now Available for Developers https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-seeds-macos-tahoe-26-5-beta-4/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/fourth-macos-tahoe-26-5-beta-now-available-for-developers.2481600/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:07:18 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-seeds-macos-tahoe-26-5-beta-4/ Juli Clover Featured macOS Tahoe 26 macOS Tahoe 26.5 update to developers for testing purposes, with the update coming a week after the third beta.


Developers can download the ‌macOS Tahoe‌ 26.5 update by opening up the System Settings app, selecting the General category, and then choosing Software Update. Beta Updates will need to be enabled, and a free developer account is required.

No new features were found in the first three ‌macOS Tahoe‌ 26.5 betas, and it's likely the update primarily focuses on bug fixes and performance improvements.
Related Roundup: macOS Tahoe
Related Forum: macOS Tahoe

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]]> Apple Seeds Fourth iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 Betas to Developers https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-seeds-ios-26-5-beta-4/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-seeds-fourth-ios-26-5-and-ipados-26-5-betas-to-developers.2481598/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:03:01 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-seeds-ios-26-5-beta-4/ Juli Clover Featured iOS 26

Registered developers can download the betas from the Settings app on the iPhone or iPad by going to the General section and selecting Software Update.

iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 do not include new Siri capabilities, suggesting any ‌Siri‌ updates are being held until iOS 27. The Maps app has a Suggested Places feature for recommending locations to visit nearby based on trends and recent searches, plus Apple is laying the groundwork for ads in the Apple Maps app.

Apple is continuing to test end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages between iPhone and Android users. Apple included the feature in the iOS 26.4 beta, but removed it before the update launched to the public.

In the European Union, Apple is testing proximity pairing, notification forwarding, and Live Activities for third-party wearables like earbuds and smartwatches. The functionality will allow third-party wearables to have many of the same features as the Apple Watch and AirPods.

More detail on what's new in iOS 26.5 can be found in our iOS 26.5 beta features guide.
Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26
Related Forum: iOS 26

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]]> Apple Releases Fourth watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5 and visionOS 26.5 Betas https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-seeds-watchos-26-5-beta-4/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-releases-fourth-watchos-26-5-tvos-26-5-and-visionos-26-5-betas.2481602/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:01:00 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-seeds-watchos-26-5-beta-4/ Juli Clover Apple TV Vision Pro watchOS

The software updates are available through the Settings app on each device, and because these are developer betas, a free developer account is required.

There's no word on what's in the software as of yet. watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS often get few features in each new beta, with updates primarily focusing on bug fixes and performance improvements. Nothing new was found in the first three betas.
Related Roundups: Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro, watchOS 26
Buyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy), Vision Pro (Buy Now)
Related Forums: Apple TV and Home Theater, Apple Vision Pro, Apple Watch

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]]> Apple Hit With Unfair Labor Practice Charge for Refusing to Transfer Unionized Towson Workers https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-towson-unfair-labor-practice-charge/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-hit-with-unfair-labor-practice-charge-for-refusing-to-transfer-unionized-towson-workers.2481597/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 09:56:26 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-towson-unfair-labor-practice-charge/ Juli Clover Apple Store PDF] against Apple with the National Labor Relations Board. The union is accusing Apple of unlawful discrimination against unionized workers.


Earlier this month, Apple announced plans to close the Towson Apple Store alongside two other Apple locations in Connecticut and California. The Towson store was the first Apple retail location to unionize in the U.S. back in 2022.

With most store closures, employees are relocated automatically to nearby stores, but Apple said the union rules at the Towson location prevented it from moving the workers to other stores. Apple instead said that Towson employees are "eligible to apply for open roles at Apple in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement."

The IAM Union said at the time that it was "outraged" by Apple's decision, and that there was nothing in the agreement that prevented employees from being relocated. IAM said Apple's claim was false, and that it raised "serious concerns" that the closure was a "cynical attempt to bust the union."

In today's filing, the IAM Union complained that Apple allowed employees at two non-union stores to transfer to other locations, but forced Towson employees to reapply for positions through the same process as external candidates.
"This is about whether workers are treated fairly under the law or punished for exercising their rights," said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. "Apple is denying union-represented workers the same opportunities it is giving to others -- and doing so because these workers chose to organize. That is discrimination, and it is exactly what federal labor law is designed to prevent."

The union has asked Apple to reverse its decision and give Towson workers the same opportunity to transfer to other retail locations.

The three stores that Apple is closing are located in struggling shopping malls that are slowly shutting down and losing foot traffic.
Tag: Apple Store

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]]> MacBook Neo Still Seeing Extended Delivery Estimates at Apple, But Amazon and Walmart Have Stock https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/macbook-neo-amazon-walmart/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/macbook-neo-still-seeing-extended-delivery-estimates-at-apple-but-amazon-and-walmart-have-stock.2481591/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:56:47 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/macbook-neo-amazon-walmart/ Mitchel Broussard Featured MacBook Neo MacBook Neo has recently been struck by delayed delivery estimates on Apple.com, due to the notebook's booming popularity. However, both Walmart and Amazon offer deliveries as soon as tomorrow, and even feature small discounts on the Neo.



Following its launch in March, the ‌MacBook Neo‌ has become a big hit for Apple, with the company struggling to keep the computer in stock online and in Apple stores. As of writing, Apple.com quotes a 2-3 week delivery estimate on every model of the Neo in the U.S. and many other countries.

If you want to prioritize saving a bit of money, Amazon has every model of the MacBook Neo for $9 off this week. Free delivery options place the Neo arriving as soon as May 2, while Prime members can get same-day shipping on the 256GB models in many locations.

Over at Walmart, you won't find any discounts, but you will find similarly quick delivery estimates. Select locations should see delivery estimates as soon as April 28 through April 29 on every model of the ‌MacBook Neo‌. If you have Walmart+ instead of Amazon Prime, this could be a better option despite the lack of a straight cash discount.

The ‌MacBook Neo‌ is Apple's low-cost Mac, priced at $599 for the 256GB model and $699 for the 512GB model with Touch ID. Students can get the computer for even cheaper at $499 through Apple's education store on its website.

If you're shopping for the new M5 MacBook Air, Amazon is currently hosting big $150 discounts on nearly every model. Prices now start at $949.99 for the 512GB 13-inch model.

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.
Related Roundup: MacBook Neo
Buyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)
Related Forum: MacBook Neo

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]]> Apple Planning to Launch Two New 'Ultra' Products in the Next Year https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-planning-to-launch-two-new-ultra-products/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-planning-to-launch-two-new-ultra-products-in-the-next-year.2481590/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:34:42 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/apple-planning-to-launch-two-new-ultra-products/ Hartley Charlton Featured iPhone Fold MacBook Pro iPhone Ultra MacBook Ultra Macworld Macworld reports.


Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report claims that Apple's first foldable iPhone will be called the "iPhone Ultra." The device will become the highest end option in the lineup.

The ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will not be considered part of the iPhone 18 iPhone lineup, despite arriving alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max. This would be just like how the iPhone Air is not considered to be part of the iPhone 17 series. Although Apple is hoping to ship the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ alongside the ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌, it may launch a few weeks later and with scarcer availability.

Moreover, Apple is apparently planning to release a "MacBook Ultra" later this year or in early 2027. It will feature an OLED panel and a touchscreen, sitting above the MacBook Pro in the lineup at a "significantly" higher price point. While the device was originally intended to launch later this year, it is now likely pushed back by several months due to memory supply chain shortages.

Apple already offers M-series Ultra chips, the Apple Watch Ultra, and CarPlay Ultra. "Ultra" branding for the foldable iPhone and OLED MacBook was previously rumored by Bloomberg, which added that "AirPods Ultra" could also be on the way.
Related Roundups: iPhone Fold, MacBook Pro
Tags: iPhone Ultra, MacBook Ultra, Macworld
Buyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now)
Related Forum: MacBook Pro

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]]> OpenAI Reportedly Working on an AI Smartphone to Rival iPhone https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/openai-working-on-an-ai-smartphone/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/openai-reportedly-working-on-an-ai-smartphone-to-rival-iphone.2481588/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 06:53:17 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/openai-working-on-an-ai-smartphone/ Hartley Charlton Ming-Chi Kuo OpenAI Ming-Chi Kuo.


Kuo shared the findings from his latest supply chain checks in a post on X, saying MediaTek and Qualcomm are the chosen chip partners and Luxshare Precision Industry is the exclusive manufacturing partner, with mass production scheduled for 2028. Exact chip specifications and additional suppliers are expected to be finalized by late 2026 or the first quarter of 2027.

Kuo argues that the smartphone remains uniquely positioned for AI agent use because it is the only device that captures a user's full real-time state, including location, activity, communication, and context, which he describes as the most important input for real-time AI agent inference. He claims that AI agents will fundamentally change how people interact with a phone, shifting the focus from launching individual apps to completing tasks through a more continuous, context-aware interface.

He argues that fully controlling both the operating system and the hardware is the only way for the company to deliver a comprehensive AI agent service, and that a subscription-bundled business model could enable OpenAI to build a developer ecosystem around those agents.

Kuo suggests that Luxshare, which has long sought to reduce its dependence on Apple supply chain work, could benefit substantially from an early position in what he frames as the next generation of smartphone hardware.

The development represents a notable reversal in OpenAI's publicly stated hardware strategy. Previous reports have consistently described the company's hardware ambitions as centered on non-phone form factors developed in collaboration with Jony Ive, the former Apple design chief whose startup io Products was acquired by OpenAI for $6.5 billion. Those plans include a smart speaker, which is likely the first product to launch, along with smart glasses, a smart lamp, and potentially earbuds. OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane has said the first hardware announcement is expected in the second half of 2026, with launch around early 2027.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman posted on X the same day Kuo published his analysis, writing that it "feels like a good time to seriously rethink how operating systems and user interfaces are designed." Such a device would obviously put OpenAI in direct competition with Apple's iPhone.
Tags: Ming-Chi Kuo, OpenAI

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]]> Apple's M5 MacBook Air Returns to $949.99 Low Price on Amazon https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/m5-macbook-air-949-return/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apples-m5-macbook-air-returns-to-949-99-low-price-on-amazon.2481586/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 06:32:10 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/27/m5-macbook-air-949-return/ Mitchel Broussard Deals Featured new record low prices on the M5 MacBook Air and the best deal is back today. You can get the 512GB 13-inch M5 MacBook Air for $949.99, down from $1,099.00, available in all colors.

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.

You'll find up to $150 off every model of the M5 MacBook Air on Amazon, with free delivery around May 2 for most models. In terms of other 13-inch models, Amazon also has the 24GB/1TB model for $1,349.00, down from $1,499.00. Both of these represent a match for the record low prices for each configuration.

$149 OFF
13-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $949.99

$150 OFF
13-inch M5 MacBook Air (16GB/1TB) for $1,149.00

$150 OFF
13-inch M5 MacBook Air (24GB/1TB) for $1,349.00


In terms of the 15-inch models, you'll find up to $150 off the M5 MacBook Air, with multiple color options on sale for each configuration. Prices start at $1,149.99 for the 512GB model, down from $1,299.00, and also include both 1TB models on sale.

$149 OFF
15-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,149.99

$150 OFF
15-inch M5 MacBook Air (16GB/1TB) for $1,349.00

$150 OFF
15-inch M5 MacBook Air (24GB/1TB) for $1,549.00


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.



Deals Newsletter


Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season!




Related Roundup: Apple Deals

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]]> Get AirPods 4 for $99 and AirPods Max 2 for $529.99 on Amazon https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/25/airpods-4-99-airpods-max-2/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/get-airpods-4-for-99-and-airpods-max-2-for-529-99-on-amazon.2481520/ Sat, 25 Apr 2026 05:52:41 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/25/airpods-4-99-airpods-max-2/ Mitchel Broussard Deals $99.00, down from $129.00. This remains one of the best deals on the AirPods 4 so far in 2026, and it's accompanied by a solid deal on the AirPods Max 2.

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.

Apple's new AirPods Max 2 launched earlier this month, and Amazon is still one of the only retailers offering a discount on the headphones. You can get the Midnight and Starlight color options for $529.99 on Amazon, down from $549.00.

$30 OFF
AirPods 4 for $99.00

$19 OFF
AirPods Max 2 for $529.99


Although this is only a $19 discount on the AirPods Max 2, it's the best markdown you'll find online if you're looking to order the new headphones. Free delivery has the AirPods Max 2 arriving around April 30, but they can be delivered as soon as tomorrow with Prime shipping.

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.



Deals Newsletter


Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season!




Related Roundup: Apple Deals

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]]> Ads Are Coming to Apple Maps This Summer: Here's What to Expect https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/apple-maps-ads-what-to-expect/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/ads-are-coming-to-apple-maps-this-summer-heres-what-to-expect.2481492/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:58:00 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/apple-maps-ads-what-to-expect/ Juli Clover Featured Apple Maps Apple Maps app this summer, and signs of ads have already shown up in the iOS 26.5 beta as Apple prepares to roll them out.



Where Ads Show Up


Ads will be displayed in the ‌Apple Maps‌ search interface. Depending on the search, relevant ads will be shown first in search results.

Apple is also implementing a new Suggested Places feature in Maps that will show recommendations based on what's trending nearby and the user's recent searches.

Suggested Places


The Maps app is getting a Suggested Places feature that recommends locations to visit based on trending places that are around you and your recent Maps searches. Ads will be shown in Suggested Places.



No Opt-Out


Similar to ads in the App Store, there will be no option to turn off ads in ‌Apple Maps‌. Ads will be displayed for all users in the U.S. and Canada.

Countries


Ads will be shown in ‌Apple Maps‌ in the United States and Canada first, and could expand to other countries in the future.

Platforms


Ads will be displayed in the Maps app on iPhone and iPad.

What Ads Look Like


Apple says that ads in Maps will be clearly marked as ads with an "Ad" label, similar to how ads show up in the ‌App Store‌ search results.

Businesses will be able to bid for ad placement, which is how ads in the ‌App Store‌ work. The highest bidder for a given term will have their ad shown in the app.

Privacy


Your location and ads that you see and interact with in the Maps app are not associated with your Apple Account, and the data is not shared with third parties.

Beta Testing


Apple is laying the groundwork for Maps ads in the iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 betas. There's an ads splash screen in the Maps app along with underlying ad code, but ads are not yet live.

Launch Date


Apple only said "summer" for the ads launch. "Summer" in the Northern Hemisphere starts on June 21 and ends on September 22. iOS 26.5 is likely to launch in late May or early June, and it's possible ads will be tied to the update.
Tag: Apple Maps

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]]> XChat App Now Available https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/xchat-app-now-available/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/xchat-app-now-available.2481491/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:46:27 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/xchat-app-now-available/ Hartley Charlton Twitter XChat, a standalone messaging app for the iPhone and iPad, available now on the App Store.


XChat allows users to chat with anyone on X in a private, focused space separate from the main X app. At launch, the app supports direct messaging and group chats, audio and video calls, and file sharing. X claims all messages are end-to-end encrypted and PIN protected, with no ads or tracking.

Other features include disappearing messages, the ability to edit and delete messages for everyone in a chat, and a mechanism to block or alert users when a screenshot is attempted. The app is free to download and requires iOS 26.0 or later.



The app has been in testing with a small group of beta users since last year. X says more updates are still planned, with X lead designer Benji Taylor teasing that XChat is "just the beginning of what we're building for messaging."

Unlike the main X app, XChat adopts iOS 26 design conventions, including the ‌iOS 26‌ keyboard. The app offers several customization options, including light and dark modes, message permissions, left-swipe interaction settings, and a selection of app icon options. There is also a prominent button within XChat for jumping back to the main X app.

XChat can now be downloaded from the App Store in the United States. A release date for an Android version of the app has not yet been announced.
Tag: Twitter

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]]> iPhone 18 Could Come With 12GB of RAM https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/iphone-18-could-come-with-12gb-ram/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/iphone-18-could-come-with-12gb-of-ram.2481490/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:21:57 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/iphone-18-could-come-with-12gb-ram/ Hartley Charlton iPhone 18 iPhone 18 could feature 12GB of memory for the first time, according to analyst Dan Nystedt.


In a new post on X, Nystedt said that the standard ‌iPhone 18‌ will match the 12GB of RAM Apple gave the iPhone 17 Pro and ‌iPhone 17 Pro‌ Max last September. It would mark the first time the entry-level iPhone model has shipped with that much memory.



Nystedt also flagged an earlier rumor claiming that Apple has secured TSMC's first 2nm chip production run for the A20 chip set to power the ‌iPhone 18‌ lineup. According to that report, TSMC's 2nm process delivers 15% better computing performance than 3nm, with no loss in power efficiency. The iPhone 17 series uses TSMC's N3P ‌3nm‌ node.

The jump to 12GB of RAM on the base model is likely tied to Apple Intelligence. Apple is expected to introduce expanded AI features with iOS 27, which the company is set to announce at WWDC on June 8. On-device AI workloads are memory-intensive, and keeping the entry-level iPhone capable of running ‌Apple Intelligence‌ in full would give Apple reason to push the standard model's memory up to par with last year's Pro tier.

The ‌iPhone 18‌ is not expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro this fall. Apple is reportedly planning to delay the standard model until early 2027, alongside the iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air, while the Pro models and the long-anticipated foldable iPhone will ship in the usual fall time frame.
Related Roundup: iPhone 18
Related Forum: iPhone

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]]> Apple Shares Behind-the-Scenes Look at MacBook Neo Intro Video https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/behind-the-scenes-look-at-macbook-neo-intro-video/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-shares-behind-the-scenes-look-at-macbook-neo-intro-video.2481486/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:52:39 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/behind-the-scenes-look-at-macbook-neo-intro-video/ Hartley Charlton MacBook Neo MacBook Neo introduction video.


The short clip gives what Apple describes as "a peek at some handmade magic," revealing the physical models and camera techniques used during production. Apple shows how real-world props were combined with visual effects to produce the final sequences. Apple does not usually share production insights for a major product launch videos.

See the original "Hello, MacBook Neo" video below:



The MacBook Neo launched in March at $599, and its introductory video was widely noted for its whimsey and charm. The ‌MacBook Neo‌ itself has proven to be very strong seller since its launch; Apple reportedly broke a Mac launch week record in the weeks following its debut, and the device has since sold out of inventory until the middle of next month.
Related Roundup: MacBook Neo
Buyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)
Related Forum: MacBook Neo

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]]> Foldable 'iPhone Ultra' Could Be Missing These 5 Key Features Despite $2,000 Price Tag https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/iphone-ultra-could-be-missing-5-features/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/foldable-iphone-ultra-could-be-missing-these-5-key-features-despite-2-000-price-tag.2481482/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:41:52 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/iphone-ultra-could-be-missing-5-features/ Hartley Charlton Featured iPhone Fold Face ID Foldable iPhone iPhone Ultra MagSafe iPhone Ultra," could be missing at least five key features present on the iPhone 18 Pro models despite its $2,000 price point.


Recent images of dummy models shared by Sonny Dickson and Vadim Yuryev seem to reveal two previously undiscussed missing features of the ‌iPhone Ultra‌: MagSafe and the Action Button.

iPhone dummy units are intended to take the place of real devices for testing purposes, particularly for accessory manufacturers, who seek to mass produce items such as cases prior to the announcement of new devices, which necessitates a high level of accuracy and manufacturing precision.

Both sets of dummy models show that the volume buttons will be located on the top edge of the device, aligned to the right, similar to the iPad mini. This aspect was first rumored by Weibo leaker "Instant Digital," who said that the motherboard is apparently located on the right side of the device. As to not run cables across the screen to the left side for the volume buttons (where they are located on all other iPhone models), Apple is said to have decided to run them directly upwards, which maximizes internal space.

Image via Vadim Yuryev.


While a power button and volume buttons in their new location are clearly visible on the dummy models, the Action button is curiously missing. This suggests that the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will be the first iPhone model with no Action button or silent switch. Apple introduced the Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro as a replacement for the silent switch, and it has since come to every available iPhone model.

The images of the foldable iPhone dummy models shared so far have been shown alongside mock ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max units. These dupes for the high-end models, like most dummies, clearly show precise indentations for the internal array of ‌MagSafe‌ magnets to help manufacturers obtain correct alignment with their accessories.

Image via Vadim Yuryev.


Crucially, these indentations are absent on the foldable iPhone dummies, suggesting that the device may not have ‌MagSafe‌. This aspect remains speculative, but at 4.5mm, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is expected to be Apple's thinnest iPhone to date by a considerable margin, so it is not implausible that it could be too thin for ‌MagSafe‌.

The ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is believed to be too thin to accommodate Apple's TrueDepth camera array, which is required for Face ID authentication and now located in the Dynamic Island. As a result, Apple is expected to revert to Touch ID on the device. The last iPhone to feature ‌Touch ID‌ was 2022's iPhone SE 3, where it was part of the device's budget offering. The last flagship iPhone with ‌Touch ID‌ was 2016's iPhone 7, so the return of ‌Touch ID‌ as the sole method of authentication on what will be the highest-end iPhone will be unprecedented.

Image via Sonny Dickson.


As visible on the dummy models, which corroborate a multitude rumors, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is expected to sport only two rear cameras. These are expected to be wide and ultra wide cameras, just like the iPhone 17. Unlike the Pro iPhones, there will be no third camera with telephoto capabilities.

Previous rumors indicate that the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will also not have a SIM card slot, again just like the iPhone Air, being compatible with eSIM only. As a result, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ could be missing the following features:


  • ‌Face ID‌/TrueDepth camera array

  • Telephoto camera/third rear camera

  • ‌MagSafe‌

  • Action Button

  • Physical SIM card slot


The ‌iPhone Air‌ lacks Ultra Wide and Telephoto rear cameras, a SIM card slot, and stereo speakers. With a super-thin design, a titanium frame, and a glass back, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is expected to be very similar to the ‌iPhone Air‌ in terms of design, and it is possible that similar feature concessions will be present on the device when it launches later this year. There are no indications that the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will be missing stereo speakers, but it is not out of the question given the other design compromises Apple has chosen to make with the device.

The rumored starting price for the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ varies somewhat, but reports agree that it will not be below $1,999. The iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099 and has all of the above missing features, so the ‌iPhone Ultra‌'s compromises could be controversial given its markedly higher price point. The device is expected to launch alongside the ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max in the fall.
Related Roundup: iPhone Fold
Tags: Face ID, Foldable iPhone, iPhone Ultra, MagSafe

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]]> Apple to Launch 'MacBook Ultra' With These Six New Features https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/macbook-ultra-up-to-six-new-features/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-to-launch-macbook-ultra-with-these-six-new-features.2481480/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:32:22 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/macbook-ultra-up-to-six-new-features/ Joe Rossignol MacBook Pro MacBook Ultra updated with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips last month, bigger changes are reportedly around the corner.


According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the higher-end MacBook Pro models will be receiving a major redesign by early 2027, and he said that Apple might use "MacBook Ultra" branding for them. If so, the MacBook Ultra would likely be a higher-priced model at the top of the MacBook lineup, sitting above the MacBook Pro entirely.

Up to six new features have been rumored so far, including an OLED display, touch capabilities, a Dynamic Island, M6 Pro and M6 Max chips manufactured with TSMC's advanced 2nm process, a thinner design, and built-in cellular connectivity.

The exact launch timing remains to be seen, but Gurman recently said that early 2027 is now looking more likely than late 2026 due to the global memory chip shortage. Apple's supply of RAM is constrained, which might push back the launch.

Keep in mind that the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M6 chip is not expected to receive many of the changes listed below.

Apple last redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021, when the M1 Pro and M1 Max models launched, so the MacBook Ultra would represent the first major redesign in at least five years and is a model that many customers are holding out for.

Below, we recap rumored MacBook Ultra features.

OLED Display


Regardless of whether Apple uses MacBook Pro or MacBook Ultra branding, it is widely expected that these will be the first MacBooks with OLED displays.

The current MacBook Pro models are equipped with LCD displays with mini-LED backlighting. The move to OLED technology would result in improved image quality, thanks to richer colors and higher contrast ratio with true blacks.

All of the iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad Pro models that Apple sells today are already equipped with OLED displays, excluding refurbished models.

Touch Screen


Not only will the MacBook Ultra be moving to OLED, but the display will apparently have touch-screen capabilities too. This functionality would allow Mac users to use both their fingers and a keyboard and mouse/trackpad for input.

Steve Jobs said that a touch-screen Mac would cause arm fatigue, but he made that comment a long time ago, and Apple does reverse course from time to time.

Dynamic Island


Yet another display-related change rumored for the MacBook Ultra is a hole-punch camera, and this will pave the way for a Dynamic Island instead of a notch.

With a Dynamic Island, the MacBook Ultra would be another step towards a truly edge-to-edge display with thin bezels. Like on the iPhone, the Dynamic Island would display things such as low battery life alerts and AirPods connection indicators in the area surrounding the camera at the top-center part of the screen.

M6 Pro and M6 Max Chips


This one is obvious, but the MacBook Ultra is expected to be powered by Apple's next-generation M6 Pro and M6 Max chips. Notably, these chips are expected to be manufactured with TSMC's advanced 2nm process, which should result in greater year-over-year performance and efficiency gains than usual.

The current M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are built with TSMC's third-generation 3nm process.

Thinner Design


MacBook Ultra is expected to have a thinner design compared to the MacBook Pro.

The move from LCD with mini-LED backlighting to OLED would contribute to the thinner design, and there could be other changes that help to slim things down.

As of now, there has been no indication that Apple plans to once again remove ports like HDMI, MagSafe, or the SD card slot in order to achieve this thinner design, but we shall see. That was a very unpopular decision the last time it happened.

Cellular


Macs can already connect to a cellular network via the Personal Hotspot feature on a nearby iPhone or iPad, but Apple has reportedly at least considered built-in cellular connectivity for future Macs. If these plans moved forward, the MacBook Ultra would likely be equipped with Apple's C1X or future C2 modem for 5G and LTE.
Related Roundup: MacBook Pro
Tag: MacBook Ultra
Buyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now)
Related Forum: MacBook Pro

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]]> The MacRumors Show: Tim Cook to Step Down as Apple CEO https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/the-macrumors-show-tim-cook-to-step-down/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/the-macrumors-show-tim-cook-to-step-down-as-apple-ceo.2481471/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 09:06:47 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/the-macrumors-show-tim-cook-to-step-down/ Hartley Charlton Featured The MacRumors Show Tim Cook The MacRumors Show, we discuss Apple's bombshell announcement that Tim Cook will step down as CEO on September 1, 2026, with hardware engineering chief John Ternus set to succeed him.

Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel for more videos

Cook will transition to executive chairman, where he will "assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world." The transition was approved by the board and is the result of a "thoughtful, long-term succession planning process." Current board chair Arthur Levinson will become the lead independent director. Cook has served as Apple's CEO since 2011.

Ternus, who has spent nearly his entire career at Apple, will join the board ahead of assuming the CEO role. He is a product person in the mold of Steve Jobs rather than a supply chain operator like Cook, and according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, he is expected to take a more centralized approach to decision-making. "If you go to Tim with 'A' or 'B,' he won't pick," one person who has worked closely with both executives told Gurman. "Ternus will make decisions." Ternus will take over in time to oversee the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro models and Apple's first foldable iPhone, both expected in September.

Alongside the leadership transition, Apple said that Johny Srouji, currently SVP of Hardware Technologies, will take on an expanded role as Chief Hardware Officer, leading Hardware Engineering and reporting to Ternus. Srouji's remit will cover everything from product design to system engineering to reliability and durability testing. Cook described Srouji as having "played a singular role in driving Apple's silicon strategy" and said his influence has been felt "not just inside the company, but across the industry."

In a statement, Cook said leading Apple has been the "greatest privilege" of his life and described Ternus as "a visionary whose contributions to Apple over 25 years are already too numerous to count." Ternus said he is "filled with optimism" about what Apple can achieve in the years to come, adding that he promises to "lead with the values and vision that have come to define this special place for half a century."

The MacRumors Show has its own YouTube channel, so make sure you're subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips.

Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel!


You can also listen to ‌The MacRumors Show‌ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or other podcast apps. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your player.



If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up to hear our discussion about Apple's upcoming overhaul of the iPad mini and iPad Air, looking at the future of the product lineup as a whole.

Subscribe to ‌The MacRumors Show‌ for new episodes every week, where we discuss some of the topical news breaking here on MacRumors, often joined by interesting guests such as Kayci Lacob, Kevin Nether, John Gruber, Mark Gurman, Jon Prosser, Luke Miani, Matthew Cassinelli, Brian Tong, Quinn Nelson, Jared Nelson, Eli Hodapp, Mike Bell, Sara Dietschy, iJustine, Jon Rettinger, Andru Edwards, Arnold Kim, Ben Sullins, Marcus Kane, Christopher Lawley, Frank McShan, David Lewis, Tyler Stalman, Sam Kohl, Federico Viticci, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo, and Rene Ritchie.

‌The MacRumors Show‌ is on X @MacRumorsShow, so be sure to give us a follow to keep up with the podcast. You can also email us at podcast@macrumors.com or head over to The MacRumors Show forum thread. Remember to rate and review the podcast, and let us know what subjects and guests you would like to see in the future.
Tags: The MacRumors Show, Tim Cook

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]]> Top Stories: Tim Cook Stepping Down, iPhone 18 Pro Colors, and More https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/25/top-stories-tim-cook-stepping-down/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/top-stories-tim-cook-stepping-down-iphone-18-pro-colors-and-more.2481521/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 07:34:09 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/25/top-stories-tim-cook-stepping-down/ MacRumors Staff Featured Top Stories

Other recent news included updated details on color options for the iPhone 18 Pro, as well as fresh rumors about the standard iPhone 18 and timing for the launch of the highly anticipated touch screen-equipped MacBook Pro and updated Mac Studio, so read on below for all the details on these stories and more!

Top Stories


Apple CEO Tim Cook Stepping Down, John Ternus Taking Over


Apple CEO Tim Cook is stepping down as chief executive officer, and hardware engineering chief John Ternus is set to take over, Apple announced this week.


Cook will continue on as Apple CEO through the summer, with Ternus set to join Apple's Board of Directors and take over as CEO on September 1, 2026. Cook is going to transition to executive chairman, and he will "assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world."

In an all-hands meeting for Apple employees following the announcement, Cook said that he remains healthy and that he plans to stay in the executive chairman role "for a long time."

Apple's current chip chief Johny Srouji will also be taking on an expanded role as Chief Hardware Officer, adding oversight of the Hardware Engineering group that had reported to John Ternus to his existing responsibilities with Apple's Hardware Technologies group.

iPhone 18 Pro's Four Rumored Colors Revealed, Including 'Dark Cherry'


A source said to be familiar with Apple's supply chain recently revealed the color options Apple is planning for the iPhone 18 Pro and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max.


The information comes from Macworld, which says the signature new color for this year's Pro models will be Dark Cherry, a deep wine-like red. While other sources had previously reported on a "Dark Red" option, the hue is said to be considerably closer to wine than a brighter red.

According to Macworld's source, Apple has been working on four color options for the ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ and Pro Max, with the following Pantone codes said to be in use internally:
  • Light Blue (Pantone 2121), resembling the current iPhone 17's Mist Blue

  • Dark Cherry (Pantone 6076), the headline new color

  • Dark Gray (Pantone 426C)

  • Silver (Pantone 427C), similar to the current generation


MacBook Pro With Touch Screen and New Mac Studio Likely 'Postponed'


The global memory chip shortage may result in the next MacBook Pro and Mac Studio models launching later than expected, according to the latest rumor.


Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has repeatedly stated that 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with a touch screen are slated to launch in late 2026 to early 2027. In his Power On newsletter this week, though, he said to be prepared for the laptops to potentially arrive towards the end of that timeframe due to the chip shortage.

In other words, early 2027 is now more likely than late 2026.

Gurman previously expected a new Mac Studio to launch around the middle of 2026, which pointed towards an announcement around WWDC 2026 in June. However, in his newsletter, he wrote that sources within Apple believe that the next Mac Studio models will not ship until around October this year as a result of the shortage.

Leaker: Apple Downgrading iPhone 18 to Cut Costs


Apple is downgrading the planned specifications of the standard iPhone 18 to cut costs, a leaker claims.


In a new post on Weibo, the user known as "Fixed Focus Digital" said that the ‌iPhone 18‌ features "certain manufacturing downgrades" that bring it more into line with the low-cost iPhone 18e model. The decision is said to be "a cost-cutting measure" that will "effectively bring it in line with the '18e' model."

In follow-up posts, the leaker provided further detail indicating the iPhone 18 is likely to see downgrades to the display and main chip compared to Apple's original plans.

iOS 27 Rumored to Drop Support for These iPhone Models


iOS 27 will be compatible with the iPhone 12 series and newer, according to Instant Digital, a known Apple leaker on the Chinese social media platform Weibo.


If this rumor is accurate, iOS 27 will drop support for the following iPhone models, although they will continue to receive iOS 26 security updates for at least a few years:
  • iPhone 11

  • iPhone 11 Pro

  • iPhone 11 Pro Max

  • iPhone SE (2nd generation)


macOS 27 Will Mark the End of an Era


During its Platforms State of the Union segment at WWDC 2025, Apple revealed that macOS 26 Tahoe is the final major macOS version for Intel-based Macs.


The upcoming macOS 27 release will be compatible with Apple silicon Macs only, meaning that you will need a Mac with an M-series chip or a MacBook Neo with an A18 Pro chip in order to install the software update. macOS 27 should be available in beta starting in June, and the update will likely be widely released in September.

MacRumors Newsletter


Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view.

So if you want to have top stories like the above recap delivered to your email inbox each week, subscribe to our newsletter!
Tag: Top Stories

This article, "Top Stories: Tim Cook Stepping Down, iPhone 18 Pro Colors, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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]]> Best Apple Deals of the Week: Low Prices on Apple Watch, MacBook Air, AirTag 1, and More https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/best-apple-deals-of-the-week-4-24-26/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/best-apple-deals-of-the-week-low-prices-on-apple-watch-macbook-air-airtag-1-and-more.2481477/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 07:32:02 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/best-apple-deals-of-the-week-4-24-26/ Mitchel Broussard Deals
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.

M5 MacBook Air



  • What's the deal? Take $150 off M5 MacBook Air

  • Where can I get it? Amazon

  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

$150 OFF
13-inch M5 MacBook Air (16GB/1TB) for $1,149.00

$150 OFF
15-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,149.00


Amazon has a few record low prices on the new M5 MacBook Air this week, with $150 off select models of the brand new notebook. Stock has begun dwindling on these notebooks and we're no longer tracking an all-time low price on the 512GB 13-inch M5 MacBook Air, but most other configurations have availability.

Apple Watch Series 11



  • What's the deal? Take $100 off Apple Watch Series 11

  • Where can I get it? Amazon

  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

$100 OFF
Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm GPS) for $299.00

$100 OFF
Apple Watch Series 11 (46mm GPS) for $329.00


Amazon this week has all-time low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11, with $100 discounts across numerous models of the smartwatch. This sale includes many aluminum models of the Series 11 on sale at record low prices.

AirTag 1



  • What's the deal? Take $42 off first gen AirTag

  • Where can I get it? Woot

  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

$42 OFF
AirTag 4-Pack (1st Gen) for $56.99


Woot this week introduced a great deal on Apple's first generation AirTag 4-Pack, and it's set to last only for a few more hours. You can get this accessory for $56.99, down from $99.00, which is a match of the all-time low price on this model. The AirTag 4-Pack is in new condition and comes with a 90-day Woot limited warranty.

Anker



  • What's the deal? Take $42 off first gen AirTag

  • Where can I get it? Amazon and Anker

  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

$29 OFF
Anker Prime 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station for $119.99


We began tracking a few different Earth Day-related sales from Anker this week, including events on Amazon and Anker.com. This includes a wide array of charging accessories like the new Prime 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station for $119.99, down from $149.99.

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.



Deals Newsletter


Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season!




Related Roundup: Apple Deals

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]]> Get the 2026 MacBook Pro for New Record Low $1,999 Price https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/2026-macbook-pro-1999-price/ https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/get-the-2026-macbook-pro-for-new-record-low-1-999-price.2481465/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 07:19:46 PDT https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/24/2026-macbook-pro-1999-price/ Mitchel Broussard Deals $1,999.00 on Amazon, down from $2,199.00.

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.

This beats the previous deal we tracked on this model by about $50, and as of writing it's only available in Space Black. Amazon provides a free delivery estimate by around April 29, with earlier delivery for Prime members.

$200 OFF
14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB) for $1,999.00


You can also get $200 off every 16-inch MacBook Pro model right now on Amazon, with the 24GB RAM/1TB M5 Pro model hitting a new all-time low price of $2,499.00, down from $2,699.00.

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.



Deals Newsletter


Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season!




Related Roundup: Apple Deals

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