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Guide to Successful Certified GitOps Associate CGOA Training
The Certified GitOps Associate (CGOA) Certification Training Course gives you a strong start in GitOps. This modern way uses Git to manage and automate infrastructure and apps on platforms like Kubernetes. What is GitOps? GitOps keeps everything in Git repositories. Changes to deployments or configs happen through pull requests, making work trackable and easy to roll back. Teams define the desired state in Git. Tools then pull these changes and apply them automatically, cutting down errors and manual steps. Core Principles of GitOps GitOps builds on simple, powerful ideas. Declarative Specs: Write what you want, not step-by-step commands. Version Control: Git tracks every change with history and audits. Continuous Reconciliation: Tools watch for drifts and fix them fast. Pull-Based Updates: Systems pull changes safely, with no direct pushes. These steps make CI/CD pipelines smoother and more reliable. Why Choose CGOA Certification? The CGOA cert shows you know GitOps basics well. It helps in job hunts as firms shift to cloud-native tools. You learn automation, security, and monitoring skills. This opens doors to roles like DevOps engineer or SRE with higher pay. Demand for GitOps experts grows with Kubernetes use. Keywords like GitOps tools, Kubernetes automation, and continuous deployment become key in your career. Who Should Take CGOA? This course fits many IT pros. Kubernetes admins running clusters. DevOps and SRE teams building pipelines. Developers pushing secure apps. Cloud admins managing setups. Security folks checking compliance. Managers also gain insights to lead teams better. Main Tools: Flux and ArgoCD Flux and ArgoCD top the list for GitOps on Kubernetes. Flux works as Kubernetes controllers with CRDs. It syncs simply and handles Helm charts plus image updates. ArgoCD gives a web dashboard for views and rollouts like canary deploys. It spots drifts clearly. FeatureFluxArgoCDSetupKubernetes-native CRDsControllers + UISync StyleLightweight pullRich pull featuresDashboardCLI mainFull web viewIdeal ForBasic clustersTeam environments Both handle secrets safely and link to Prometheus for alerts. Course Goals and Setup CGOA training teaches from basics to hands-on work. You grasp declarative ways, tools, and secure flows. Labs run on AWS for real practice with Flux and ArgoCD. A mix of talks, quizzes, and real cases keeps it engaging. Sessions last 10-15 hours online with live instructors. Top Benefits of CGOA CGOA helps pros and teams a lot. Fewer mistakes from auto deploys. Faster CI/CD with Git syncs. Better security via controls. Clear views with monitoring. Certified pros drive changes that save time and cut outages. GitOps certification, Flux CD, and Argo CD deployment add real value. DevOpsSchool: Top Training Hub DevOpsSchool leads in DevOps learning. They offer courses on Kubernetes, SRE, GitOps, and more with hands-on labs. Strengths include lifetime access to LMS, AWS setups daily, and interview prep kits. Reviews highlight clear teaching and quick help. Endless AWS labs each day. Support for life after class. Cover the top 16 tools with projects. Group deals make it easy for teams. They run CKA on the 12th monthly and SRE on the 5th, perfect for planning. Guided by Rajesh Kumar Rajesh Kumar mentors this program. With 20+ years in DevOps, SRE, Kubernetes, and cloud, he trained global teams. He cut deployment times by 95% in big projects. Rajesh focuses on real tips from MNCs, test-driven ways, and monitoring. His conference talks and books build trust worldwide. Students love his clear examples and hands-on approach. What You Get in the Course Rich materials help you learn. Slides and notes on key ideas. Step-by-step labs for tools. Videos, tests, and exam practice. Real cases from deployments. LMS stays open forever with a forum for questions. Get class recordings, PDFs, and interview Q&A kits. Keeping GitOps Secure GitOps stays safe with Git rules and tools. Use Sealed Secrets for hidden data and RBAC for access. Auto checks meet rules. Prometheus watches for problems early. This covers DevSecOps practices naturally. GitOps in Real Jobs Teams manage many clusters and do safe rollouts. It scales apps across test, staging, and prod. One firm synced 50+ clusters and cut issues by 40%. GitOps principles shine in multi-cloud setups. How CGOA Stacks Up CertMain FocusTimeKey ToolsCGOAGitOps entry10-15 hrsFlux, ArgoCDCKAK8s adminMonthlyKubectl+SREReliabilityMonthlyAlerts CGOA starts your GitOps path to advanced certs. What Students Say Hands-on wins praise. “Clear examples built my skills.” – Abhinav G., Pune (5.0) “Solid Kubernetes start, good support.” – Ravi D., Noida (5.0) “Practical content with lifetime help.” – Indrayani, India (5.0) Most give 5 stars for real value. “Rajesh resolved all queries effectively.” Start Your CGOA Journey Know Git and Kubernetes basics first. Get AWS demos and end with your cert. Training runs online and is instructor-led. Conclusion and Overview CGOA training changes how you deploy. Git becomes the core for reliable ops. You master Flux, ArgoCD, and secure Kubernetes workflows. Overview: From GitOps principles to hands-on labs, this cert boosts careers in automation, CI/CD, and cloud-native DevOps. DevOpsSchool and Rajesh Kumar guide you to success. Contact DevOpsSchool Today! Email: [email protected] Phone & WhatsApp (India): +91 7004 215 841 Phone & WhatsApp (USA): +1 (469) 756-6329 DevOpsSchool View the full article
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Lamb Of God Fans Mistakenly Attend Christian Christmas Concert After Ticketing Balls-Up
Some poor, unsuspecting Lamb Of God fans in South Carolina USA rocked up to what they thought was a metal show last weekend, only to be greeted by… hymns, Advent candles and a family-friendly Christian Christmas concert. Thanks to a glorious fuck-up on StubHub, a December 20 event at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium was mistakenly listed as a Lamb Of God gig. In reality, it was Andrew Peterson’s long-running religious spectacular Behold The Lamb Of God: The True Tall Tale Of The Coming Of Christ – a wholesome, very reverent retelling of the birth of Jesus that is, in every possible universe, the polar opposite of groove metal. “This why StubHub sucks” – Randy Blythe To make it even more cursed, this wasn’t just any stop on Peterson’s tour – it was the final show of a 13-date family-friendly Christian Christmas run. A screenshot of the StubHub listing quickly went viral, and honestly, it’s easy to see how metalheads unfamiliar with Peterson’s project might’ve thought, “hell yeah, Lamb Of God Christmas special” and smashed that buy button without a second thought. After the backlash, StubHub fronted up with an apology, promising full refunds under its FanProtect Guarantee: “We acknowledge the listing for the December 20 event at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium was misleading and apologize for the confusion this caused… Anyone who purchased tickets under the impression this was a different performance is encouraged to contact us — we’ll honour a full refund”. Lamb Of God themselves hadn’t even played live since November, which should’ve been a dead giveaway — but when you see your favourite band’s name next to a venue, sometimes logic leaves the building faster than a wall of death. Frontman Randy Blythe handled the whole thing with peak dad-humour energy, posting on Instagram: “We usually play @groundzerovenue NOT Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium. This why StubHub sucks. Merry Christmas, Spartanburg”. And in case you thought this was a once-in-a-lifetime divine intervention – nope. Back in 2014, the band’s logo was accidentally used on promo material for a religious Easter event in Virginia. So this Christmas, please spare a thought for the metalheads who turned up ready to scream along to Laid To Rest and instead found themselves politely clapping through a heartfelt celebration of the Nativity. Thoughts and prayers. Further Reading Watch Lamb of God Tear Through New Songs In Quarantine Session Ex-Lamb Of God Drummer Chris Adler Breaks His Silence On His Departure From The Band Watch This Contestant On Germany’s ‘The Voice’ Smash A Lamb Of God Classic The post Lamb Of God Fans Mistakenly Attend Christian Christmas Concert After Ticketing Balls-Up appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article
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Ultra Australia Drops First 2026 Lineup: The Chainsmokers, DJ Snake + More Locked In
Ultra has officially kicked off the 2026 hype cycle, unveiling the first eight acts for next April’s festival run – and yep, EDM fans are already deep in the comment sections about it. The global dance juggernaut will return to the Gold Coast’s Broadwater Parklands and Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne with The Chainsmokers and DJ Snake leading the charge, joined by Darren Styles, MaRLo and Oliver Heldens on both dates. “ULTRA AUSTRALIA PHASE 1 LINEUP IS HERE” Melbourne gets a few extra treats with Miss Monique, Zedd and Nico Moreno also jumping on the bill, giving the Victorian stop a slightly juicier first taste. While last year’s editions sold out and pulled more than 40,000 punters across the two cities, reaction online to this initial drop has been… mixed. Some fans are still mourning the absence of 2025 headliners like Martin Garrix and Axwell, while others are banking hard on Ultra delivering a monster Phase Two announcement to really blow the doors off. Despite the mixed early chatter, Ultra remains one of the most-loved EDM events in the country, recently ranked the #88 EDM festival in the world in DJ Mag’s readers poll – with only Beyond The Valley and Pitch Music & Arts sneaking in ahead of it on the Aussie side. Tickets for Ultra Australia 2026 are on sale now via Ticketbooth for both Gold Coast and Melbourne, so if you’re keen to lock in a rave under the sun (or the Flemington floodlights), you know what to do. Ultra Australia 2026 Lineup Playing both Gold Coast & Melbourne: The Chainsmokers DJ Snake Darren Styles MaRLo Oliver Heldens Melbourne only: Miss Monique Zedd Nico Moreno Ultra Australia 2026 Dates & Venues Saturday, 11th April – Melbourne, Flemington Racecourse Sunday, 12th April – Gold Coast, Broadwater Parklands Tickets on sale here Further Reading Here’s the Lineup for ULTRA Australia 2024: Armin Van Buuren, Carl Cox + More Chainsmokers Concert Promoter Fined $20,000 For Violating COVID-19 Protocols The Internet Reckons The Chainsmokers’ New Song Is A Big Ol’ Twenty One Pilots Rip-Off The post Ultra Australia Drops First 2026 Lineup: The Chainsmokers, DJ Snake + More Locked In appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article
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“The Australian Music Industry Is Parasitic”: Private Function Announce Their Break-Up
Private Function have officially called time on their beautifully unhinged nine-year reign, announcing their split in the most on-brand way imaginable: by gifting fans, on Christmas Day, an image of a wrapped lump of coal that read “we broke up lol”. The Melbourne chaos merchants shared the news on socials today, just days after teasing a mysterious festive “event” instead of their usual annual Christmas show. “we broke up lol” “Because you’ve all been such naughty children this year we’ve decided you’re all getting the present you deserve,” the band wrote. “WE’RE BREAKING UP LOL.” They followed it up with a heartfelt thanks to fans for sticking with them through the carnage, promising to “buy you all a beer one day x”. But while the announcement came wrapped in tinsel and irony, bassist Milla Holland’s follow-up Instagram story ripped the bandaid off the joke. “For 9 years we destroyed our bodies and minds, we made a lot of industry people a lot of money and saw very little ourselves,” she wrote. “It became unsustainable as we got older and more injured. “Cautionary tale,” she continued. “The Australian music industry is parasitic and you only get more exploited the higher up they let you.” She didn’t stop there either, declaring music festivals “dogshit” and “vibeless environmental disasters” pushed by corporate interests – though she made sure to shout out the early days playing sweaty little rooms as her best memories. It’s a sobering gut-punch from a band who’ve spent nearly a decade skewering the industry from the inside. Formed in late 2016, Private Function somehow managed to go from cassette EPs and Yah Yah’s Christmas shows to ARIA Top 10 albums, ARIA nominations, urine-filled vinyl editions and a special pressing of their latest album that reportedly smelled like Gwyneth Paltrow’s vagina (??) Their 2019 debut St Anger, 2020’s Whose Line Is It Anyway? and this year’s beautifully nihilistic ¯\(ツ)/¯ turned them into cult heroes, even earning them stadium support slots with Green Day. Just days ago they were reportedly back in the studio to record an album – now confirmed to be their swansong – with the band promising a few final shows and “a few surprises” before they bail completely, including their upcoming national tour with Viagra Boys and slot at Froth & Fury Festival. Further Reading Froth & Fury 2026 Line-Up: Polaris, Soulfly, In Hearts Wake + More Private Function Announce Their Fourth Album, Which Is Literally Called ‘¯\_(ツ)_/¯’ Private Function Bass Player Smokes a Can Pipe on the ARIAs Red Carpet The post “The Australian Music Industry Is Parasitic”: Private Function Announce Their Break-Up appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article
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What You Can (and Can't) Use an Apple Gift Card For
Apple Gift Cards are one of the most common Apple-related gifts given during the holidays, so if you've received one today, here are all of the things you can and cannot use it for. After redeeming an Apple Gift Card, the value is added to the Apple Account balance and automatically applies at checkout when making eligible purchases. It can be spent on a wide range of Apple products, services, and digital content. Apple Gift Cards are marketed as a single, flexible balance that works across Apple's ecosystem, but there are clear limits on what they can and cannot be used for once redeemed to an Apple Account. What Apple Gift Cards Can Be Used For Purchasing Apple hardware and accessories on apple.com, in the Apple Store app, or in an Apple retail store. Using the balance toward Apple hardware when checking out, with any remaining cost paid using another payment method. Buying apps and games on the App Store, including in-app purchases. Paying for digital media, including movies, TV shows, and books through Apple's digital storefronts. Covering subscriptions to Apple services such as Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and iCloud+ storage, as well as eligible third-party app subscriptions billed through the App Store. What Apple Gift Cards Can't Be Used For Making purchases outside Apple's ecosystem, such as goods or services from non-Apple retailers. Starting certain recurring payments, such as AppleCare+ plans, without an additional credit or debit card on file. Redeeming or using balances across different countries or regions, as gift cards are typically region-locked. Transferring to or purchasing other gift cards. Exchanging for cash or cash equivalents. While Apple Gift Cards are intentionally designed to be more versatile than older App Store or Apple Store–only gift cards, they still come with some limits. For users, the key distinction is that Apple Gift Cards work best for Apple-direct purchases and subscriptions, but they can't replace a traditional payment method for gifting or non-Apple spending. This article, "What You Can (and Can't) Use an Apple Gift Card For" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Top 10 Video Hosting Platforms Tools in 2025: Features, Pros, Cons & Comparison
Introduction In 2025, video hosting platforms have evolved far beyond simple file storage. They now serve as comprehensive ecosystems that empower businesses, educators, creators, and enterprises to upload, manage, stream, and monetize video content seamlessly. With the growing dominance of video-first strategies across marketing, training, education, and entertainment, choosing the right platform has become critical for ensuring optimal audience engagement and business success. Modern video hosting platforms offer AI-driven video analytics, adaptive streaming, robust security, integrations with collaboration tools, and monetization features. Whether you’re a content creator, corporate trainer, marketer, or educational institution, the choice of the right platform impacts reach, performance, and ROI. In this guide, we’ve compiled the Top 10 Video Hosting Platforms Tools in 2025, evaluating their features, pros, cons, pricing, and suitability. Whether you need enterprise-grade video infrastructure or simple video sharing capabilities, this comparison will help you make an informed decision. Top 10 Video Hosting Platforms Tools in 2025 1. Gumlet Short Description:Gumlet is a secure and performance-focused private video hosting platform designed for businesses that need private video hosting with complete control over access and delivery. It is commonly used for internal videos, gated content, product demos, and educational platforms. Key Features: Private and secure video hosting with access control and signed URLs Adaptive streaming with global CDN for fast playback Customizable video player Video analytics and performance insights Easy video upload and management Pros: Strong focus on privacy and security Reliable video performance and optimization Scales well for business and SaaS use cases Cons: Advanced configurations may require initial setup time Best For: Businesses and teams looking for a reliable private video hosting platform with strong security and performance. 2. Vimeo Short Description: Vimeo is a premium video hosting and streaming platform built for professionals, marketers, and enterprises focused on high-quality video experiences. Key Features: 4K ultra-HD video hosting with adaptive streaming Built-in video editor and templates Advanced analytics and viewer insights Password-protected and private video sharing Integrations with Zoom, Google Drive, and Slack Pros: Exceptional video quality and customization Excellent privacy and security controls Ad-free experience Cons: Limited free plan Premium plans are relatively costly 3. YouTube Short Description: YouTube remains the world’s largest video hosting and streaming platform, perfect for creators, brands, and educators to reach massive global audiences. Key Features: Free unlimited hosting with global accessibility Built-in monetization via ads, memberships, and SuperChat SEO-friendly video optimization tools Live streaming and community engagement features AI-driven content recommendations Pros: Massive audience reach Free hosting and powerful monetization options Seamless integration with Google ecosystem Cons: Limited customization for branding Ads can interrupt viewer experience 4. Wistia Short Description: Wistia is a business-focused video hosting tool designed for marketers and enterprises that prioritize lead generation and analytics. Key Features: Custom-branded video players Powerful video analytics and heatmaps Lead capture forms and marketing automation Integration with HubSpot, Salesforce, and Marketo Hosting for podcasts alongside videos Pros: Great for marketing and business growth Advanced lead generation features Fully customizable branding Cons: Not suitable for free hosting Limited live streaming capabilities 5. Dailymotion Short Description: Dailymotion is a global video hosting and sharing platform designed for creators, publishers, and enterprises. Key Features: HD video hosting and adaptive streaming Monetization through advertising Simple integration for embedding videos on websites Global content discovery platform Supports large-scale enterprise video libraries Pros: Free and accessible worldwide Monetization-friendly for creators Easy to embed videos anywhere Cons: Smaller audience compared to YouTube Limited customization for branding 6. Brightcove Short Description: Brightcove is an enterprise-grade video hosting and streaming solution for large-scale businesses and OTT platforms. Key Features: Adaptive bitrate streaming for seamless playback AI-powered video recommendations Advanced video analytics and insights Monetization options through subscriptions or ads Integration with marketing automation and CRM tools Pros: Highly scalable for large enterprises Premium security features Perfect for OTT and SaaS video platforms Cons: Expensive for small businesses Requires technical expertise for full customization 7. Vidyard Short Description: Vidyard focuses on business video hosting, enabling companies to create personalized video experiences and improve engagement. Key Features: Interactive video hosting Personalization for customer engagement Advanced analytics and performance tracking Integrations with Salesforce, HubSpot, and LinkedIn Video creation tools for sales and marketing Pros: Great for personalized marketing Ideal for B2B video strategies Powerful analytics and integrations Cons: Limited free features Not designed for consumer-focused creators 8. SproutVideo Short Description: SproutVideo offers secure video hosting solutions tailored for businesses and internal communication. Key Features: Private video hosting and restricted access Password-protected video sharing Customizable players and video portals Detailed audience analytics API for custom video workflows Pros: Focused on security and privacy Great for internal training and enterprise communications Excellent customer support Cons: Limited public sharing tools Requires paid plans for most features 9. Kaltura Short Description: Kaltura is an open-source video hosting platform widely used by educational institutions and enterprises. Key Features: Open-source customization and flexibility Virtual classrooms and e-learning tools Scalable enterprise video hosting Interactive video quizzes and assessments Integration with LMS platforms like Moodle and Blackboard Pros: Highly customizable Best suited for education and training Offers both cloud and on-premises deployment Cons: Complex setup process Requires developer involvement for full customization 10. Panopto Short Description: Panopto specializes in video hosting for education and enterprises, making it ideal for lecture capture and corporate training. Key Features: Video recording and hosting for lectures AI-powered video search and indexing Integration with LMS and CMS platforms Secure video streaming for private audiences Analytics for learner engagement tracking Pros: Perfect for educational institutions Strong integrations with learning platforms Secure and private hosting Cons: Limited audience-building tools Not ideal for public content creators 11. JW Player Short Description: JW Player is a powerful video hosting and streaming platform for publishers, advertisers, and OTT providers. Key Features: Adaptive streaming with lightning-fast playback Monetization via ads and subscriptions Advanced video performance analytics White-label video players Multi-device and cross-platform compatibility Pros: Excellent for OTT businesses High-performance video delivery Advanced monetization options Cons: Expensive for small teams Requires technical knowledge for setup Comparison Table: Top 10 Video Hosting Platforms in 2025 Tool NameBest ForPlatforms SupportedStandout FeaturePricingAvg. RatingVimeoProfessionals & marketersWeb, iOS, AndroidHigh-quality 4K streamingStarts at $12/month4.7/5YouTubeCreators & educatorsWeb, iOS, AndroidGlobal reach & monetizationFree / Revenue-share4.8/5WistiaMarketing & lead genWebLead capture integrationStarts at $19/month4.6/5DailymotionCreators & publishersWeb, iOS, AndroidEasy global sharingFree4.4/5BrightcoveEnterprises & OTT appsWeb, iOS, AndroidAI-powered OTT solutionsCustom pricing4.7/5VidyardB2B marketers & salesWebPersonalized video hostingStarts at $15/month4.6/5SproutVideoInternal business useWebSecure private hostingStarts at $24/month4.5/5KalturaEducation & enterpriseWeb, Cloud, On-premiseOpen-source customizationCustom pricing4.6/5PanoptoEducation & trainingWeb, iOS, AndroidAI-powered video searchStarts at $14/month4.5/5JW PlayerOTT & publishersWeb, iOS, AndroidHigh-performance deliveryCustom pricing4.7/5 Which Video Hosting Platform Tool is Right for You? For Creators & Influencers → YouTube or Vimeo For Marketers & Businesses → Wistia or Vidyard For Enterprises & OTT Providers → Brightcove or JW Player For Educational Institutions → Panopto or Kaltura For Internal Business Training → SproutVideo FAQs 1. What is a video hosting platform? A video hosting platform allows users to upload, store, stream, and share videos online with optimized performance and scalability. 2. Which is the best free video hosting platform in 2025? YouTube remains the best free option, thanks to its global reach and monetization features. 3. Which platform is ideal for businesses? Wistia and Vidyard are best suited for businesses focusing on marketing, lead generation, and analytics. 4. What features should I look for in a video hosting platform? Key features include high-quality streaming, privacy controls, monetization options, analytics, and integrations. 5. Are there platforms designed specifically for education? Yes, Panopto and Kaltura are highly recommended for educational institutions. Conclusion In 2025, video hosting platforms have become strategic business tools, driving audience engagement, monetization, and seamless video delivery. From YouTube’s massive reach to Brightcove’s enterprise-grade capabilities, there’s a solution for every creator, marketer, educator, and business. Choosing the right tool depends on your budget, audience, and goals. Most providers offer free trials or demos, so test them to find the perfect fit for your needs. View the full article
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10 Mac Apps Worth Trying in 2026
2026 is almost upon us, and a new year is a good time to try out some new apps. We've rounded up 10 excellent Mac apps that are worth checking out. Subscribe to the MacRumors YouTube channel for more videos. Alt-Tab (Free) - Alt-Tab brings a Windows-style alt + tab thumbnail preview option to the Mac. You can see a full window preview of open apps and app windows. One Thing (Free) - One Thing is a super simple menu bar app that helps you remember the one main thing that you need to accomplish. Whatever you type in will show up in your menu bar so it's front and center. Text and colors are customizable, and you can use emoji. Launchy (Free, $6.99 Pro upgrade) - Launchy is a customizable app launcher and switcher with a radial menu interface that you can use to launch and switch between your seven favorite apps. Folder Preview ($2.99) - Folder Preview lets you see what's inside a folder or a zip file by pressing the spacebar in Finder. Command X ($4) - Command X brings the Windows cut and paste workflow to Mac. You can use Command X and Command V keyboard shortcuts to cut and paste folders in the Finder app. ImageOptim (Free) - ImageOptim uses quality preserving compression to reduce image file size, plus it removes private EXIF metadata, thumbnails, comments, color profiles, and other image cruft. Monocle ($9) - Monocle blurs your background apps and brings the main app you're using to the forefront, so you can better focus on what you're doing. Monocle says it's noise canceling for your screen. Dockdoor (Free) - Dockdoor adds live window previews to the dock, and enables option + tab window switching. Hovering over an icon on your Mac's dock will show a preview of the app and all windows from it. Substage ($3.99/month) - Substage adds an AI-based natural language text bar to the Finder app so you can control your Mac with simple written commands instead of tricky command lines. It supports converting, organizing, and managing files and images. It can also answer questions about files, do calculations, and manage settings on your Mac. Bauhaus Clock ($19) - Bauhaus Clock adds an elegant clock screensaver to your Mac. It's design-forward, with careful attention to detail and a sharp look that makes the Mac a focal point in the room when it's idle. The look is customizable with different colors and day and night settings. Have a favorite Mac app we didn't mention? Let us know about it in the comments below. This article, "10 Mac Apps Worth Trying in 2026" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Apple CEO Tim Cook Buys $3 Million of Nike Shares
Apple CEO Tim Cook disclosed a roughly $3 million open-market purchase of Nike shares this week (via Reuters). According to a regulatory filing published yesterday, Cook purchased 50,000 Class B shares of Nike on December 22 at an average price of $58.97 per share, for a total investment of approximately $2.95 million. The filing shows that Cook now holds about 105,000 Nike shares, a position valued at nearly $6 million. Nike shares rose following the disclosure, gaining between about 2% and 5% in premarket and early regular-session activity, after the stock had fallen sharply in the days following the company's most recent earnings report, which highlighted ongoing challenges in its business, particularly in China. Nike is currently in the early stages of a turnaround effort under CEO Elliott Hill, who returned to the company last year after retiring. Cook has served on Nike's board of directors since 2005 and is its lead independent director, a role he assumed in 2016 after Nike co-founder Phil Knight stepped down as chairman. In addition to his position at Apple, Cook also chairs Nike's compensation committee, placing him in a central governance role at the apparel maker. The December 22 transaction represents Cook's largest open-market purchase of Nike shares in years and comes at a time when the company is under pressure from investors following a prolonged decline in its stock price.Tag: Tim Cook This article, "Apple CEO Tim Cook Buys $3 Million of Nike Shares" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Apple Plans to Expand iPhone Driver's Licenses to These 7 U.S. States
In select U.S. states, residents can add their driver's license or state ID to the Apple Wallet app on the iPhone and Apple Watch, and then use it to display proof of identity or age at select airports and businesses, and in select apps. The feature is currently available in 13 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, and it is expected to launch in at least seven more in the future. To set up the feature, open the Wallet app and tap on the plus sign in the top-right corner. Next, select Driver's License and ID Cards and follow the steps. Supported States The following 13 states offer driver's licenses in the Wallet app:Arizona (since March 2022) Maryland (since May 2022) Colorado (since November 2022) Georgia (since May 2023) Ohio (since July 2024) Hawaii (since August 2024) California (since September 2024) Iowa (since October 2024) New Mexico (since December 2024)Montana (since August 2025) North Dakota (since September 2025) West Virginia (since October 2025) Illinois (since November 2025)The feature is also available in Puerto Rico. Future States Apple and local DMV offices have announced that the following U.S. states have signed on to adopt the feature, but no timeframes were disclosed:Connecticut Kentucky Mississippi Oklahoma Utah Arkansas VirginiaParticipating Airports Apple Wallet IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints in more than 250 airports in the U.S., for domestic travel. Given that Apple Wallet IDs are not accepted by law enforcement, and lack many other use cases, carrying a physical ID is still necessary. Here are just some of the airports that offer the feature — there are hundreds of others:Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) Denver International Airport (DEN) Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG) John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) San Francisco International Airport (SFO) San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) Los Angeles International (LAX) Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) Des Moines International Airport (DSM) Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) Lea County Regional Airport (HOB) Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) Great Falls International Airport (GTF) Missoula International Airport (MSO) Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) Richmond International Airport (RIC) Norfolk International Airport (ORF) Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport (PHF)Travelers should refer to TSA signage to confirm availability of the feature. Digital Passport If you live in a state that does not yet offer Apple Wallet IDs, you can now create a Digital ID based on your U.S. passport, and present it at the same participating TSA checkpoints, for age and identity verification purposes during domestic travel. It is not a replacement for a physical passport, and it cannot be used for international travel.Tag: Apple Wallet This article, "Apple Plans to Expand iPhone Driver's Licenses to These 7 U.S. States" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Apple to Introduce New App Store Fee Structure in Brazil Following Antitrust Settlement
Brazilian regulators have approved a settlement that will require Apple to change how the App Store operates on iPhone in the country, including allowing alternative app stores, expanded payment options, and a defined new fee structure. In a press release, Brazil's Administrative Council of Economic Defense (CADE), said its court has approved a Term of Commitment to Cease proposed by Apple to resolve an investigation into the company's App Store rules on iOS. The case began in 2022 and examined whether Apple's restrictions on app distribution and payments limited competition in Brazil. CADE said the investigation focused on Apple's prohibition of third-party app stores on iOS, the requirement that developers use Apple's in-app purchase system for digital goods and subscriptions, and restrictions that prevented developers from informing users about alternative payment options. Under the settlement, Apple will be required to allow developers in Brazil to link to external payment options and promote offers that take place outside their apps. Developers will also be permitted to offer third-party payment methods within their apps alongside Apple's own in-app purchase system, with CADE requiring that these options be presented next to Apple's payment option. Apple will also have to allow third-party app stores in Brazil. CADE specified that Apple may still display warnings or informational messages to users, but those messages must be neutral, objective, and limited in scope, and must not introduce extra steps or barriers that make alternative options harder to use. According to Brazilian technology site Tecnoblog, which said it obtained the details directly from CADE, purchases made through the App Store will remain subject to a 10% or 25% commission under standard terms. Developers who use Apple's payment system would also pay a 5% transaction fee. If an app directs users to pay outside the app using only static text, with no clickable link or button, Apple will not charge a fee. If the app includes a clickable button or link that sends users to an external website for payment, Apple will charge a 15% fee. Third-party app stores will be subject to a 5% Core Technology Commission. CADE said Apple will have up to 105 days to implement the required changes once the new rules become binding. Tags: Apple Antitrust, Brazil This article, "Apple to Introduce New App Store Fee Structure in Brazil Following Antitrust Settlement" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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iPhone Air 2 Could Still Launch Next Year
Apple's next-generation iPhone Air could still launch in the fall of 2026, according to the Weibo leaker known as "Fixed Focus Digital." The leaker claims to have been told by sources that the second-generation iPhone Air will launch in the fall. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17e is said to already be in mass production ahead of unveiling at a spring product launch event. The rumor comes in contrast to an array of corroborated reports that the second-generation iPhone Air has been delayed until March 2027, where it is expected to launch alongside the standard iPhone 18 and a lower-end iPhone 18e. The second-generation iPhone Air was originally rumored to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and foldable iPhone in the fall of 2026, but poor sales of the debut model apparently led Apple to delay the launch. The second-generation iPhone Air is rumored to address complaints about the device by adding a second rear camera and lowering its price. A lighter weight, vapor chamber cooling, and a larger battery capacity are also among the rumored new features. It is still possible that a new iPhone Air could launch in the fall of next year, especially if Apple has expedited development of new features, since this was the original scheduled launch time frame. Nevertheless, it would be surprising if the multitude of rumors indicating a delayed launch were mistaken. Related Roundup: iPhone AirTag: Fixed Focus DigitalBuyer's Guide: iPhone Air (Buy Now) This article, "iPhone Air 2 Could Still Launch Next Year" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Apple Discontinued These 25 Products This Year
With the end of 2025 near, the time has come to look back at the devices and accessories that Apple discontinued throughout the year. Most of the products that were discontinued this year were simply replaced by a new model with an updated chip. However, the iPhone SE line was entirely discontinued when the iPhone 16e launched, and the iPhone Plus line is being phased out. Below, we have listed 25 products that were discontinued by Apple this year. iPhones Apple discontinued the third-generation iPhone SE in February, after introducing the iPhone 16e. As a result, Apple no longer sells any iPhone models with a Home button, Touch ID, LCD screen, a sub-6-inch screen size, or Lightning. The original iPhone SE was released in March 2016. That model's design was largely based on the iPhone 5s, with key specs including a 4-inch display, a Touch ID home button, and an aluminum and glass frame with chamfered edges. However, the device was powered by a newer A9 chip from the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus. Apple went on to release two more iPhone SE models in 2020 and 2022, respectively, with those devices having a similar design as the iPhone 8. Meanwhile, the iPhone Plus has effectively been replaced by the ultra-thin iPhone Air in Apple's smartphone lineup. Both the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus were discontinued this year, and it is only a matter of time before the iPhone 16 Plus is axed too. Apple is not expected to release another Plus model in the foreseeable future. Here are all of the iPhone models that were discontinued this year:iPhone 16 Pro Max (succeeded by iPhone 17 Pro Max) iPhone 16 Pro (succeeded by iPhone 17 Pro) iPhone 15 Plus iPhone 15 iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 iPhone SE (succeeded by iPhone 16e)iPads It was a spec-bump year for the iPad lineup, with the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and entry-level iPad all receiving faster chips, but no major design changes. Here are all of the iPad models that were discontinued this year: iPad Pro with M4 chip (updated with M5 chip) iPad Air with M2 chip (updated with M3 chip) iPad 10 (updated with A16 chip)Apple Watches Apple Watch Series 11 is a very minor upgrade over the now-discontinued Series 10, but the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch SE 3 offer some more meaningful changes. None of the latest Apple Watch models received a new chip, though. Here are all of the Apple Watch models that were discontinued this year: Apple Watch Ultra 2 (succeeded by Apple Watch Ultra 3) Apple Watch Series 10 (succeeded by Apple Watch Series 11) Apple Watch SE 2 (succeeded by Apple Watch SE 3)Macs Here are all of the Mac models that were discontinued this year: Mac Studio with M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips (updated with M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips) 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 chip (updated with M5 chip) 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air with M3 chip (updated with M4 chip) 13-inch MacBook Air with M2 chipOther Here are other Apple products and accessories that were discontinued this year: AirPods Pro 2 (succeeded by AirPods Pro 3) Apple Vision Pro with M2 chip (updated with M5 chip) MagSafe Charger with Qi 2 (succeeded by MagSafe Charger with Qi 2.2 support) 30W USB-C Power Adapter (succeeded by 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max)* Lightning to 3.5mm Audio Cable (succeeded by USB-C to 3.5mm Audio Cable) MagSafe to MagSafe 2 Converter* In the U.S., U.K., Canada, Japan, and select other countries only. Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments section. This article, "Apple Discontinued These 25 Products This Year" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Advanced iPhone 18 Camera Sensor to Be Made in Texas
Samsung is preparing to supply Apple with advanced image sensors for the iPhone in Austin, Texas, according to The Elec. The sensors will reportedly be made by Samsung at its existing facility in Austin. The company is expected to install production equipment for the project in the near future and has posted job listings for mechanical and electrical technicians, engineers, and managers to work on set up. Samsung is expected to make the iPhone's image sensor with a three-stack design, which enables higher pixel density and improved low-light performance by vertically stacking multiple sensor layers. Stacked sensor architecture also allows for faster readout speeds, reduced power consumption, and higher dynamic range. This manufacturing process has not previously been deployed at a commercial scale. Earlier this month, Samsung notified the city of council of Austin of its intention to spend $19 billion on its Austin facility. The new image sensor production line is expected to begin operation in March at the earliest. The new sensor is believed to be destined for the iPhone 18, which is expected to launch in the first half of 2027. Apple reportedly reached a deal with Samsung in August for supply of the component. This will be the first time Apple will move away from Sony as the sole supplier for iPhone image sensors and make the component in the United States. Today, Sony is the sole supplier of iPhone image sensors; they are produced in Japan and delivered via TSMC.Related Roundup: iPhone 18Tags: Texas, The ElecRelated Forum: iPhone This article, "Advanced iPhone 18 Camera Sensor to Be Made in Texas" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Track Santa's Journey From the North Pole Using Google's Santa Tracker
Have you been good this year? If so, you may be interested to know that Google has launched its annual Santa tracking feature, allowing Santa to be tracked in real time on his journey to the North Pole as he prepares to deliver presents to children around the world. Google's Santa Tracker continues a two-decade tradition for the company, allowing excited children (and grown-ups!) to keep up with the jolly gift-giver's travels throughout December 24. On this day, Santa's Village transforms into a tracking experience where children can follow Santa and his reindeer as they merrily go about their important work. Santa can be tracked using a web browser on iPhone, iPad, or Mac by visiting Google's official Santa Tracking website. The site features a live map of Santa's current location, his next stop, a live video feed of his journey, and the estimated time that he will arrive in each specific location. The Santa site provides pictures of locations that Santa has already visited, a live count of gifts that have been delivered, and Santa's current distance from your location. There are also a selection of games to play, creative things to do, and videos to watch. Other Santa tracking services are also available, such as the NORAD Tracks Santa Claus app and website, but Google's site is often the most interactive and detailed. Happy holidays! This article, "Track Santa's Journey From the North Pole Using Google's Santa Tracker" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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The Guardian’s Music Editor Just Trashed Sleep Token As ‘Worst Album Of The Year’
Alright, strap in – The Guardian newspaper just came for Sleep Token and rage-baited the internet into oblivion. The UK paper’s music editor, Ben Beaumont-Thomas, has officially crowned Sleep Token’s Even In Arcadia the worst album of the year, dropping the hot take on The Guardian’s Today In Focus podcast and choosing absolute violence in the process. “It sounds like Maroon 5 if they had an iron deficiency” After acknowledging that the band are now the biggest British metal act of their generation – and the first UK band to top the US charts since Def Leppard in 1992 – Beaumont-Thomas proceeded to describe their music as “some of the most profoundly turgid ever made with some of the worst lyrics ever,” before unleashing the all-timer: “It sounds like Maroon 5 if they had an iron deficiency.” To be fair, Even In Arcadia has been polarising as hell. Sleep Token leaned harder into pop and R&B textures this cycle, confusing some metal purists while winning over a new army of devotees who’ve been calling the record “kaleidoscopic”, “bruising”, and “one of the best albums ever”. But for every fan claiming the album “hugs, bruises and dissolves you,” there’s another calling it a steaming turd – and now apparently The Guardian’s music editor has decided to plant his flag firmly in the turd camp. Naturally, fans picked up their swords. “Why do people in traditional press have the worst opinions on absolutely everything they report on?” one commented. “Horrendous, fully pretentious take,” another added. While another simply quipped: “I’m not taking advice from someone who looks like he’s seen Mumford and sons live”. Whether you reckon it’s a transcendent genre-bender or Maroon 5 with anaemia, one thing’s clear: Sleep Token have officially reached the stage of fame where respected critics start absolutely roasting them. It’s hard to overstate just how fast Sleep Token’s rise has been. What started as a masked cult project playing tiny UK rooms has exploded into one of the most talked-about success stories in modern heavy music. Across the last few years the anonymous collective have gone from internet curiosity to full-blown arena act, selling out massive tours across the US, UK and Europe, scoring festival headline slots, and becoming one of the most-streamed heavy bands on the planet – all without revealing their identities – in the age where most artists have been forced to become in-your-face content creators and social media personalities. Take Me Back To Eden was already a breakout moment in 2023, but Even In Arcadia turning them into the first British band since Def Leppard to top the US charts has cemented them as genuine crossover stars. Whether the Guardian reckons it’s “fascinatingly terrible” or not, Sleep Token aren’t just a band anymore – they’re a full-on cultural phenomenon, and they’re clearly only getting bigger. Further Reading Triple J’s Hottest 100 of 2023: 100-1 You Can Now Watch Queens of the Stone Age’s Epic ‘Catacombs’ Concert Film For Free, Right Now Good Things Festival Confirms It’ll Be Back In 2026 The post The Guardian’s Music Editor Just Trashed Sleep Token As ‘Worst Album Of The Year’ appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article
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Have a 3D Printer? You Can Make Your Own iPhone Fold Dummy
Apple is working on a foldable iPhone that's set to come out in September 2026, and rumors suggest that it will have a display that's around 5.4 inches when closed and 7.6 inches when open. Exact measurements vary based on rumors, but one 3D designer has created a mockup based on what we've heard so far. On MakerWorld, a user named Subsy has uploaded a 1:1 iPhone Fold replica (via Macworld), which can be 3D printed to give you a rough idea of the size of the upcoming foldable iPhone. Subsy claims that the model is "based on recently leaked CAD drawings of the iPhone Fold," but there haven't been actual CAD leaks to our knowledge. There were reports of CAD drawings earlier this month, but it turns out those drawings were concept drawings and renders created by MacRumors reader iZac back in May. iZac designed a mockup with a 5.5-inch display when the device is closed, and 7.76 inches when open. That's in line with the multiple rumors that we've heard, but so far, we don't have exact dimensions. While you can now print a 3D mockup of iZac's concept, the design isn't based on an actual CAD render. It's likely somewhat similar to what the iPhone Fold will look like in terms of size, but Apple's design for the cameras and the hinge will probably differ quite a bit. If you have a 3D printer, it's a useful way to get something that's close to the size of the iPhone Fold so you can see how it compares to your existing iPhone. We'll likely see more accurate CAD renders and dummy models starting to surface in the first months of 2026. This article, "Have a 3D Printer? You Can Make Your Own iPhone Fold Dummy" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Texas App Store Age Verification Law Blocked by Federal Judge
A Texas federal judge today blocked an App Store age verification law that was set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, which means Apple may not have to support the changes after all. The Texas App Store Accountability Act (SB2420) requires Apple and other app marketplaces to confirm user age when a person creates an Apple Account. Apple Accounts for users under 18 would need to join a Family Sharing group, with new controls available for parents and restrictions for minors. In a preliminary injunction that delays the implementation of the act, Judge Robert Pitman said that it violates the First Amendment and is "more likely than not unconstitutional." The Act is akin to a law that would require every bookstore to verify the age of every customer at the door and, for minors, require parental consent before the child or teen could enter and again when they try to purchase a book. As set out below, the Court finds a likelihood that, when considered on the merits, SB 2420 violates the First Amendment. The injunction was in response to a motion filed by the Computer and Communications Industry Association (CCIA), a group that includes Apple and Google. Today's decision is a win for Apple, as Apple has been fighting against age assurance requirements in Texas and other states. Apple says that the Texas law impacts user privacy. While we share the goal of strengthening kids' online safety, we are concerned that SB2420 impacts the privacy of users by requiring the collection of sensitive, personally identifiable information to download any app, even if a user simply wants to check the weather or sports scores. The court will move on to determining whether the law is facially invalid, which would mean that it is unconstitutional and will be entirely thrown out.Tag: Texas This article, "Texas App Store Age Verification Law Blocked by Federal Judge" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Samsung Developing 'Wide Fold' With iPhone Fold-Like Design Ahead of Apple's 2026 Launch
Samsung is working on a new foldable smartphone that's wider and shorter than the models that it's released before, according to Korean news site ETNews. The "Wide Fold" will compete with Apple's iPhone Fold that's set to launch in September 2026. Samsung's existing Galaxy Z Fold7 display is 6.5 inches when closed, and 8 inches when open, with a 21:9 aspect ratio when folded and a 20:18 aspect ratio when open. Samsung has used a similar size for its prior Z Fold devices. Rumors suggest the iPhone Fold's display will measure in at 5.3 to 5.5 inches when closed, and 7.5 to 7.8 inches when open (rumors vary). It's squatter and wider than Samsung's taller, narrower design, with a 4:3 aspect ratio when open. Samsung's "Wide Fold" will coincidentally feature a 7.6-inch display when open, and a 5.4-inch display when closed. It's also expected to have a 4:3 aspect ratio, making it noticeably different than prior models because of the more square shape. The wider 4:3 aspect ratio is expected to be more comfortable to hold than a taller device, similar to a notebook. ETNews says that Samsung plans to release its wider foldable device in the fall of 2026, which is also when the iPhone Fold will be coming out. The wide fold will join the next-generation Galaxy Fold for a total of two "Fold" devices, plus there will be a flip device.Tags: Foldable iPhone, Samsung This article, "Samsung Developing 'Wide Fold' With iPhone Fold-Like Design Ahead of Apple's 2026 Launch" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Apple Pay Promo Offers 20% Off Adidas Purchases
Apple's latest Apple Pay promo provides a 20 percent discount for Apple Pay users who purchase Adidas gear through the Adidas website or the Adidas app. To get the deal, buy something from Adidas and then enter the promo code APPLEPAY at checkout. As with all Apple Pay promos, making the purchase using Apple Pay is a requirement. Apple says the discount can be applied on purchases up to $250, with the deal set to last until December 31 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time. Some gear is excluded, including Campus, Gazelle, Disney, Human Made, limited edition originals, and more. Tag: Apple Pay Promo This article, "Apple Pay Promo Offers 20% Off Adidas Purchases" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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iPhone 18 Pro Launching Next Year With These 12 New Features
While the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are not expected to launch for another nine months, there are already plenty of rumors about the devices. Below, we have recapped 12 new features rumored for the iPhone 18 Pro models. The same overall design is expected, with 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch display sizes, and a "plateau" housing three rear cameras Under-screen Face ID Front camera in top-left corner of the screen Variable aperture for at least one rear camera A20 Pro chip manufactured with TSMC's 2nm process and new packaging technology A simplified Camera Control button with no swipe gestures Design changes to the rear Ceramic Shield for MagSafe charging, potentially including a more frosted glass appearance Apple-designed C1X or C2 modem for 5G/LTE cellular connectivity Apple-designed N1 chip or newer for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread Web browsing via satellite New color options under consideration: burgundy, brown, and purple iPhone 18 Pro Max may be slightly thicker than the iPhone 17 Pro Max, perhaps to accommodate a larger batteryApple will likely release the iPhone 18 Pro models in September 2026. Bookmark our iPhone 18 roundup to stay on top of future rumors.Related Roundup: iPhone 18Related Forum: iPhone This article, "iPhone 18 Pro Launching Next Year With These 12 New Features" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Apple to Allow Alternative App Stores and More on iOS in Brazil by April
Due to regulatory action, Apple has agreed to allow alternative app stores, third-party payment systems for in-app purchases, and in-app links to external offers on iOS in Brazil, according to legal news website MLex and Brazilian blog Tecnoblog. This means that iPhone users in Brazil would gain access to options beyond Apple's App Store, such as the AltStore from Riley Testut and Shane Gill. The changes must be implemented within 105 days, so Apple has until early April to roll them out. That timeframe might align with the release of iOS 26.4. Apple has already allowed alternative app stores and/or third-party payment systems on iOS in the EU, Japan, and South Korea, and it will likely be forced to do so in the UK and Australia too, due to similar regulations across those regions. AltStore Apple has opposed alternative app stores due to privacy and security concerns. "If you prefer using apps that have met all of Apple's App Review Guidelines, including Apple's standards for privacy, security, and quality, you can use the App Store," says Apple, in a support document about alternative app distribution.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Tag: App StoreRelated Forum: iOS 26 This article, "Apple to Allow Alternative App Stores and More on iOS in Brazil by April" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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A World-Exclusive Yungblud Photo Gallery Is Coming To Sydney This January
Sydney, get ready to get real close to the chaos. A world-exclusive Yungblud photo gallery is landing in the Inner West this January, offering fans an intimate, sweat-soaked look at one of modern alt-rock’s most electrifying figures – and it’s only sticking around for four days. Yungblud: IDOLS will take over 551 King Street, Newtown, from Thursday January 8 to Sunday January 11 Titled Yungblud: IDOLS, the exhibition is a collaboration between Yungblud and legendary rock photographer Tom Pallant, and captures the last 18 months of Yungblud’s life and career through striking black-and-white photography. Mixing personal, behind-the-scenes moments with pivotal onstage scenes, the gallery charts his evolution frame by frame – and it’s officially endorsed by Yungblud himself, who considers Pallant a creative collaborator, rather than just a photographer. Speaking about bringing the gallery to Australia first, Pallant said showcasing the IDOLS world physically for the first time felt especially meaningful, given how fiercely Aussie fans have supported Yungblud since day one. The images were captured across writing sessions, recording, release moments and the earliest live performances of the IDOLS material – with several photos being shown publicly for the very first time. The exhibition is presented by Behind The Gallery, specialists in music photography who aim to elevate contemporary artists through gallery-grade visual storytelling. Their Creative Director, Stephen Dallimore, described Pallant’s work as uniquely able to capture Yungblud’s “raw emotional and electric energy,” noting how rare it is for one photographer to tell an artist’s story so completely. Yungblud: IDOLS will take over 551 King Street, Newtown, running from Thursday January 8 to Sunday January 11. There’s more than just photos, too: Friday January 9 will feature a full album playback Saturday January 10 (the night of Yungblud’s Sydney show) will host a pre-concert fan meetup before punters head to Qudos Bank Arena If you’re a Yungblud fan – or just love seeing rock mythology captured up close – this one’s a no-brainer. Cop all the info here, or peep Yungblud’s full list of Aussie tour dates down below. Yungblud 2026 Australian IDOLS Tour Dates Supported by Dune Rats Saturday 10 January – Qudos Bank Arena | Sydney, NSW – VENUE UPGRADE (Lic. All Ages ) Tuesday 13 January – Sidney Myer Music Bowl | Melbourne, VIC (Lic. All Ages) Thursday 15 January – Adelaide Entertainment Centre | Adelaide, SA (Lic. All Ages) Saturday 17 January – Riverstage | Brisbane, QLD – SOLD OUT Sunday 18 January – Riverstage | Brisbane, QLD – NEW SHOW (Lic. All Ages) Tuesday 20 January – Ice Cream Factory | Perth, WA – SOLD OUT TICKETS ON SALE NOW via frontiertouring.com/yungblud Further Reading Yungblud Ticket Prices: How Much Are 2026 Idols World Tour Tickets? Yungblud Approaches New Album With A Deeply Personal Vision Limp Bizkit Invite Yungblud Onstage for ‘Break Stuff’ at German Festival Rock Im Park The post A World-Exclusive Yungblud Photo Gallery Is Coming To Sydney This January appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article
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Why Apple's Foldable iPhone May Be Smaller Than Expected
Apple's first foldable iPhone, rumored for release next year, may turn out to be smaller than most people imagine, if a recent report is anything to go by. According to The Information, the outer display on the book-style device will measure just 5.3 inches – that's smaller than the 5.4-inch screen on the iPhone mini, a line Apple discontinued in 2022 due to poor sales. The report has led some people to wonder why Apple would settle on such a compact form factor. Using The Information's reported dimensions, content creator Ben Gaskin has shared some images and video of a printed version of the device (embedded below) that help envision what it could look and feel like in the hand, and also hint at Apple's design strategy – suggesting it is related to an unavoidable trade-off between the outer and inner displays of a book-style foldable. A taller, phone-like outer screen generally leads to a more square inner panel once unfolded, which can be awkward for many types of content, like videos and two open windows in Split View. Conversely, a more rectangular inner display that better supports multi-window use inevitably forces the outer display to become wider or smaller, making it less comfortable to hold and less conventional in use. Printed a passport-style foldable phone to see how comfortable this form factor is in real life. 5.3-inch cover display 7.7-inch main display pic.twitter.com/5ae58Bc2Cq — Ben Geskin (@BenGeskin) December 18, 2025 Reports suggesting Apple has opted for a roughly 4:3 aspect ratio on the inner display strongly suggest Apple is favoring the latter approach. A 4:3 inner display would allow Apple to more easily transfer established multitasking features from iPadOS, such as Split View, into a foldable form. Here the unfolded state becomes the main mode of use, prioritizing a lightweight, ultra-portable iPad experience over a stretched-out smartphone. That said, the iPhone Fold in its closed state is likely to feel more like a smaller everyday phone than other foldables on the market. Compare the rumored 5.3-inch outer screen size with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, which has a 6.5-inch front display, or the Google Pixel Pro Fold, whose cover screen comes in at 6.3 inches. Indeed, the iPhone Fold's front display would be smaller than almost all current major foldables, suggesting Apple is deliberately diverging from the "outer screen as primary phone" philosophy. When choosing size, Apple will of course have a very deliberate product strategy in mind. While Samsung and Google largely treat the cover display on their foldables as a full-time smartphone screen, Apple may see the device's folded state as a secondary experience, suited to notifications, quick replies, and other glanceable interactions, while reserving the main experience for when the device is unfolded. Comparison with the iPhone 17 Pro Max pic.twitter.com/MpJ80AwHXw — Ben Geskin (@BenGeskin) December 18, 2025 However, software too has its limits. If users expect to browse, type extensively, or use third-party apps in the folded state, no amount of interface refinement will fully overcome a physically smaller canvas. That's what makes the comparison to the iPhone mini so notable – especially for a device expected to command a price premium of anywhere between $2,000 and $2,500, which would make it Apple's most expensive ever iPhone. Ultimately, the rumored dimensions suggest Apple is betting on the value of the unfolded experience rather than the comfort of the folded one. The company seems willing to accept a smaller, less conventional outer display if it ensures the inner display can shine at the system and app level. If users come to think of the device not as a larger iPhone, but as an iPad that happens to fold into a pocket, the design trade-offs start to look far more intentional, and far more Apple-like. 16:9 video playback on 7.7-inch display vs. 6.9-inch iPhone 17 Pro Max display (image credit: @BenGeskin). What do you think of the alleged dimensions of Apple's rumored foldable iPhone? Let us know in the comments. The "iPhone Fold," which some are calling it, is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September 2026.Tag: Foldable iPhone This article, "Why Apple's Foldable iPhone May Be Smaller Than Expected" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article
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Certified DevOps Professional: Roles, Responsibilities, and Benefits
The Certified DevOps Professional certification proves you can handle tough DevOps jobs like full CI/CD setups and cloud scaling. It tests skills in continuous integration, delivery, monitoring, automation, and managing clouds with microservices and containers. This 3-hour exam-only program is for pros who already work with tools like Kubernetes and Docker Swarm to make apps run smoothly and safely. Why Certified DevOps Professional Matters Now DevOps pros fix complex problems like slow pipelines or app crashes under load. They optimize workflows so teams release code daily without breaks. With 90% of companies using DevOps, experts stand out. In India, they earn ₹15-30 lakhs; seniors earn ₹35+ lakhs. The US averages $130K+. Demand jumps 35% yearly for cloud-native skills. Banks need secure deploys, and e-shops handle peaks. Keywords: CI/CD optimization, microservices architecture, Kubernetes orchestration, Docker Swarm clustering, cloud platform management, build automation Jenkins, release pipelines, GitLab, monitoring Prometheus, logging ELK stack, security scanning Trivy helps job hunts. Gains: 70% faster deploys, 50% less downtime, secure apps passing audits. Teams trust pros for big projects. Main Skills in Certified DevOps Professional Exams check deep practice. CI/CD: Advanced Jenkins multi-branch, GitLab runners, blue-green deploys. Microservices: Design APIs, service meshes like Istio, and circuit breakers. Containers: Docker multi-stage builds, Swarm stacks, and Kubernetes operators. Monitoring: Prometheus federation, Grafana alerts, ELK with Beats. Clouds: AWS EKS scaling, Azure AKS autoscaling, GCP GKE multi-zone. Security: SAST in pipelines, secrets vault, RBAC fine-tune. Keywords: advanced CI/CD, microservices patterns, K8s operators, Docker security, Swarm networking, Prometheus federation, Grafana dashboards, ELK Beats, Istio mesh, blue-green strategy. Skill AreaAdvanced ToolsPro Use CaseCI/CD AdvancedJenkins Pipeline, ArgoCDZero-downtime releasesMicroservicesIstio, LinkerdTraffic splitting 80/20Orchestration ProK8s Operators, Helm3Custom app lifecycleObservabilityPrometheus/Grafana, ELKSLO 99.95% enforcementCloud ScalingEKS/AKS/GKE HPAAuto-scale 10x traffic Solves: Pipeline bottlenecks? Parallel stages. Service failures? Retry logic. Cost spikes? Spot instances. DevOpsSchool Certified DevOps Professional Program The 120-hour Certified DevOps Professional dives into 46 tools and 3 pro projects like microservices on EKS with Istio. Lifetime LMS, 10K+ grad interview kits, AWS/GCP labs. Builds expert workflows end-to-end. Highlights: Advanced DevOps/DevSecOps/SRE blend. Trainer checks, detailed guides, videos. Groups save 10% (2-3), 15% (4-6), and 25% (7+). FeaturesDevOpsSchoolTypicalDepthExpert microservicesBasic introProjects3 production-grade1 demoLabsAWS/GCP multi-cloudSingle cloudPrepPro lifetimeExam dumps DevOpsSchool tops 50+ certs (CDP, CDM, CDE) for 100K+ global pros. Bangalore/Delhi classrooms (6+), GoToMeeting online, DCP accredited, free-tier labs, 24/7 replays, 3-month catchups, lifetime USA badges, no renewals. Rajesh Kumar: Expert Mentor Mentored by Rajesh Kumar, 20+ years of DevOps at JDA/IBM, trained 10K+ across 70+ firms (Oracle, HCL, Vodafone). MTech; automated CI/CD for 40 products, K8s migrations cut downtime 80%. Blogs SCMGalaxy, consults microservices/cloud shifts. Teaches: Production war stories, live fixes, expert to architect. Reviews: “Pro-level “insights”—Abhinav; “Real “optimizations”—Indrayani. Who Needs and Prep Steps Senior engineers lead with 4+ years of DevOps. Know CI/CD basics. Keywords: GitOps Flux, service mesh patterns, chaos engineering Litmus, FinOps optimization, multi-cluster federation, progressive delivery, observability OpenTelemetry, compliance as code (OPA), serverless K8s (Knative), and edge computing. Prep: Build home EKS cluster, contribute open-source pipelines. Delivery and Full Support Online proctored exam on any PC (2GB RAM). Optional: GoToMeeting lives. Shared clouds for labs. Lifetime LMS: Recordings, portfolio projects. 3 free retries. LinkedIn badges. Students say, “Expert depth perfect”—Abhinav”; “Production-ready skills”—Sumit”. Career Jump and Salaries Senior DevOps (₹15-30L), Principal (₹35L+). Bangalore: ₹25L avg. To Architect/VP fast; 97% promoted. Conclusion and Overview Certified DevOps Professional unlocks expert DevOps mastery, guided by Rajesh Kumar at DevOpsSchool. Overview: 3-hr pro exam, 46 advanced tools, lifetime access, and projects—expert level achieved. Contact DevOpsSchool: Email: [email protected] Phone & WhatsApp (India): +91 7004 215 841 Phone & WhatsApp (USA): +1 (469) 756-6329 DevOpsSchool View the full article
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Certified DevOps Manager: Leading Teams and Digital Change
The Certified DevOps Manager certification helps leaders guide teams through DevOps changes. It covers planning strategies, managing people, tracking progress, and making things better over time. This 3-hour exam-only test shows you can lead cross-functional groups using Agile and Lean ways. It focuses on real leadership, like handling risks, teamwork, and smooth changes in busy companies. Why Certified DevOps Manager Stands Out DevOps managers turn ideas into team success by breaking down walls between devs and ops. They set goals, remove roadblocks, and measure results like faster releases or fewer errors. With 85% of firms adopting DevOps, leaders who know how to guide change earn big. In India, managers make an average of ₹24-35 lakhs, up to ₹1 crore for seniors. The US pays $150K+. Jobs grow 30% yearly as companies need bosses for Agile shifts. Think banks speeding approvals or shops handling sales rushes. Keywords: DevOps leadership, Agile transformation, change management DevOps, team governance, continuous improvement, risk management Agile, cross-functional teams, performance metrics DevOps, lean methodology, and DevOps culture help in searches. Wins: 45% more team output, 60% better staff keep rates, quick fixes to issues. Happy teams deliver steady value. Core Skills for Certified DevOps Manager Managers learn people skills plus light tech know-how. Strategy: Set OKRs linking business to tech goals. Governance: Rules for safe changes like peer reviews. Team building: Mix devs, ops, and QA for shared wins. Change: Guide from old ways to CI/CD using retrospectives. Metrics: Track MTTR (fix time), MTBF (uptime), and deployment frequency. Culture: Build trust, share failures as lessons. Agile: Scrum for sprints, Kanban for flow. Keywords: OKR goal setting, DevOps metrics MTTR, retrospective meetings, servant leadership, psychological safety teams, technical debt backlog, Scrum master skills, Kanban boards, value stream mapping, and blameless postmortems. Skill AreaKey PracticesTeam ImpactLeadershipServant style, clear roles45% productivity boostChange ManagementRetros, peer reviewsSmooth Agile shiftMetricsMTTR, DORA scoresData-driven decisionsCultureBlameless culture60% retention gainAgile ToolsScrum, KanbanFlexible workflows Fixes: Slow teams? Add daily standups. Resistance? Share quick wins. Metrics off? Simplify dashboards. DevOpsSchool Certified DevOps Manager Program The 120-hour Certified DevOps Manager teaches leadership via 46 tools and 3 projects like a full Agile rollout. Lifetime LMS, interview kits from 10K+ grads, AWS labs. Covers strategy to execution—no prereqs beyond experience. Special features: Blends management/DevOps/leadership. Trainer profiles, guides, and videos. Team discounts: 10% (2-3), 15% (4-6), 25% (7+). FeaturesDevOpsSchoolOthersFocusLeadership + ToolsTheory onlyProjects3 team scenariosNoneSupportLifetime+JobsShortTools46 full stackBasic DevOpsSchool leads with 50+ certs (CDM, CDE, CDA) for 100K+ worldwide. Classroom Bangalore/Delhi/etc. (6+), GoToMeeting online, DCP accredited, AWS free labs, 24/7 replays, 3-month catchups, lifetime USA badges. Rajesh Kumar: Proven Leader Mentor Guided by Rajesh Kumar, who has 20+ years leading DevOps at JDA/IBM, he has trained 10K+ at 70+ firms (Oracle, HCL, Vodafone). MTech; built CI/CD for 40 products, Kubernetes shifts cutting downtime 80%. Blogs for SCMGalaxy; consults on culture shifts. Style: Real stories and role-plays from team leads to execs. Reviews: “Grew my leadership”—Abhinav”; “Practical change “tips”—Indrayani. Who Fits and Prep Basics Team leads, project managers, and IT heads with 5+ years of experience. Know Agile basics. Keywords: value stream mapping, DORA metrics, psychological safety, OKR frameworks, blameless culture, change agent skills, cross-team collaboration, Lean waste reduction, governance frameworks, transformation roadmap. Delivery and Support Details Home exam (2GB PC). Live: GoToMeeting. Lifetime LMS: Recordings, projects. 3 retries are free. Badges for profiles. Testimonials: “Leadership “boost”—Abhinav; “Team tips “gold”—Sumit. Career Lift and Pay Ranges DevOps Manager (₹24-35L), Head (₹40L+). Bangalore: ₹30L avg. Path to VP: 97% advance fast. Conclusion and Overview The certified DevOps manager builds leadership for DevOps success, mentored by Rajesh Kumar at DevOpsSchool. Overview: 3-hr exam, leadership focus, lifetime access—lead teams to wins. Contact DevOpsSchool: Email: [email protected] Phone & WhatsApp (India): +91 7004 215 841 Phone & WhatsApp (USA): +1 (469) 756-6329 DevOpsSchool View the full article