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Introduction In the fast-paced and ever-evolving construction industry, the need for efficient project management tools is more pressing than ever. Construction management software tools have become essential for overseeing the various aspects of construction projects, from scheduling and budgeting to resource allocation and risk management. As the industry faces rising demand for quicker project timelines and higher accountability, these software tools offer much-needed solutions for managing workflows, collaborating with stakeholders, and maintaining a clear overview of project progress. In 2026, construction management software tools are designed to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve communication among teams and clients. With the advent of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and mobile integration, these platforms are constantly evolving to meet the diverse needs of construction professionals. Whether you’re a small contractor or managing a large-scale construction firm, choosing the right software can significantly impact the efficiency of your operations. This blog post will explore the top 10 construction management software tools of 2026, providing a comprehensive analysis of their features, pros, cons, and comparison to help you choose the best fit for your business. Top 10 Construction Management Software Tools in 2026 1. Procore Short Description: Procore is an industry-leading construction management platform that integrates project management, construction financials, and quality & safety measures. It’s designed for construction professionals to manage all project phases. Key Features: Comprehensive project management capabilities. Real-time collaboration with teams. Automated task management and reporting. Mobile app for on-site management. Integration with other construction tools like BIM and accounting software. Pros: Extensive integrations with other software. Excellent customer support and training resources. Ideal for both large and small construction firms. Cons: Pricey for small-scale contractors. Steep learning curve for new users. 2. Buildertrend Short Description: Buildertrend is a user-friendly construction management software designed for homebuilders, remodelers, and general contractors. It focuses on simplifying project scheduling, budgeting, and customer communication. Key Features: Cloud-based software accessible from any device. Powerful budgeting and financial tracking tools. Customizable scheduling options. Real-time client communication via the app. Document and photo management. Pros: Simple and intuitive interface. Excellent customer support. Good for residential and small commercial projects. Cons: Limited functionality for large-scale commercial projects. Expensive for small contractors. 3. CoConstruct Short Description: CoConstruct offers a comprehensive project management solution focused on custom home builders and remodelers. It simplifies project planning, client management, and team collaboration. Key Features: Budget management and cost tracking. Real-time collaboration with team members and clients. Customizable client-facing portals. Mobile-friendly interface. Scheduling and task management. Pros: Great for custom home builders and remodelers. Strong focus on client management and communication. Excellent mobile app for on-the-go access. Cons: Not as feature-rich for larger construction firms. Limited integrations with third-party tools. 4. PlanGrid (by Autodesk) Short Description: PlanGrid is a mobile construction management software that helps teams collaborate in real time. With its ability to handle construction drawings, plans, and specs, it’s a go-to tool for field workers. Key Features: Easy document sharing and version control. Field management features (punch lists, change orders). Real-time collaboration and updates. Cloud storage for drawings and blueprints. Supports both desktop and mobile devices. Pros: Excellent for field teams to manage blueprints. Seamless integration with Autodesk products. High-quality mobile app with offline capabilities. Cons: Primarily geared toward field teams; lacks advanced project management tools. Limited financial and resource management features. 5. Smartsheet Short Description: Smartsheet provides a flexible work management platform that offers powerful features for construction teams. It focuses on managing project schedules, resources, and budgets with real-time collaboration. Key Features: Spreadsheet-based interface for project management. Advanced reporting and automation. Resource allocation and tracking. Gantt charts for visual timeline management. Real-time collaboration for teams. Pros: Highly customizable for various workflows. Excellent for managing schedules and resources. Suitable for construction teams of any size. Cons: Some features can be complex to set up. Doesn’t specialize in construction-specific needs like blueprints. 6. e-Builder Short Description: e-Builder is a cloud-based construction management software that helps teams streamline project workflows, budget management, and reporting. It’s designed for large construction enterprises with a focus on improving project outcomes. Key Features: Budget and cost management tools. Real-time data and analytics for decision-making. Document and change order management. Integration with project scheduling tools. Supports team collaboration through a centralized platform. Pros: Advanced analytics and reporting. Great for large enterprises and complex projects. Strong document management capabilities. Cons: Higher cost compared to some other tools. Limited mobile app functionality. 7. Jobsite Unite Short Description: Jobsite Unite focuses on team communication and collaboration, offering simple project management tools to keep projects on track. It is great for contractors looking for a straightforward, easy-to-use platform. Key Features: Task management and scheduling tools. Real-time communication with teams and clients. Document storage and sharing. Photo and video management. Mobile-friendly for on-site use. Pros: Simple and easy-to-use interface. Great for small and medium-sized contractors. Affordable for most businesses. Cons: Lacks some advanced project management features. Limited integrations with other software. 8. Fieldwire Short Description: Fieldwire is a jobsite-focused construction management platform that helps teams coordinate tasks, track progress, and communicate in real time. It’s especially popular among field teams for its simplicity and strong mobile experience. Key Features: Task management with real-time updates and notifications. Plan viewing and markup tools for easy collaboration. Offline mode for jobsite access without internet. Progress tracking with photos and reports. Seamless coordination between field and office teams. Pros: Very user-friendly, especially for on-site crews. Strong mobile app performance (even offline). Improves communication between field workers and managers. Cons: Limited advanced financial/project accounting features. May require integration with other tools for full project management. 9. Buildertrend Construction Management Software Short Description: Buildertrend is a highly-rated construction management platform that excels at handling communication between contractors, project managers, and clients. Key Features: Budget and project management. Time tracking and reporting. Easy-to-use mobile interface. Client communication tools. Document and file storage. Pros: Great for both contractors and clients. Mobile-friendly for ease of use on-site. Strong reporting and tracking tools. Cons: Some features are complex for beginners. Price may be prohibitive for small-scale contractors. 10. Procore Construction Management Short Description: Procore offers an all-in-one construction project management solution, streamlining communication, documentation, and workflows across all project stakeholders. It’s ideal for large construction firms and multi-phase projects. Key Features: Seamless project management capabilities. Real-time collaboration between project stakeholders. Task tracking, budgeting, and reporting. Integration with various tools like Microsoft Project. Cloud-based platform with mobile app access. Pros: Comprehensive and robust software. Great for large construction projects and companies. Customizable to suit different project needs. Cons: High cost for smaller contractors. Can be overwhelming for new users. Comparison Table Tool NameBest ForPlatform(s) SupportedStandout FeaturePricingG2 RatingTrustpilot RatingProcoreLarge construction firmsWeb, iOS, AndroidComprehensive project managementCustom Pricing4.5/54.6/5BuildertrendHomebuilders, RemodelersWeb, iOS, AndroidClient communication toolsStarts at $99/mo4.4/54.3/5CoConstructCustom homebuilders, RemodelersWeb, iOS, AndroidBudgeting and cost trackingStarts at $99/mo4.5/54.4/5PlanGridField teamsWeb, iOS, AndroidReal-time blueprint sharingCustom Pricing4.6/54.7/5SmartsheetAll sizes of construction firmsWeb, iOS, AndroidGantt chart schedulingStarts at $7/mo4.3/54.2/5e-BuilderLarge enterprisesWeb, iOS, AndroidAdvanced analyticsCustom Pricing4.4/54.3/5Jobsite UniteSmall contractorsWeb, iOS, AndroidTask and scheduling toolsStarts at $49/mo4.2/54.1/5FieldwireField teams, subcontractorsWeb, iOS, AndroidPlan markup & task tracking starts at ~$39/user/month4.6/54.6/5BuildertrendContractors & ClientsWeb, iOS, AndroidTime tracking & reportingStarts at $99/mo4.4/54.5/5ProcoreLarge-scale construction firmsWeb, iOS, AndroidAll-in-one project managementCustom Pricing4.6/54.7/5 Which Construction Management Software Tool is Right for You? For Large Construction Firms: Procore, e-Builder, and Aconex are ideal due to their comprehensive features and scalability. For Small to Medium Contractors: Buildertrend and CoConstruct are perfect for their ease of use and excellent client communication tools. For Field Workers: PlanGrid offers robust mobile tools for real-time collaboration and blueprint sharing. For Budget and Cost Management: CoConstruct and Buildertrend provide powerful budgeting and financial tracking capabilities. Conclusion As the construction industry grows and becomes more technology-driven, choosing the right construction management software tool is crucial for streamlining operations, improving collaboration, and ensuring timely project completion. In 2026, these top 10 software tools offer a variety of features tailored to the specific needs of contractors, builders, and project managers. Whether you’re working on a large-scale infrastructure project or a small residential build, the right tool can enhance your workflow and save you time and money. We encourage you to explore demos or free trials of these tools to find the best fit for your business. FAQs Q1: What is construction management software? A1: Construction management software helps manage and streamline construction projects by overseeing budgets, scheduling, document management, and team communication. Q2: Which construction management software is best for small contractors? A2: Buildertrend and Jobsite Unite are excellent options for small contractors due to their affordability and user-friendly features. Q3: Is Procore suitable for small businesses? A3: Procore is better suited for large businesses due to its robust features and pricing. Small businesses may find it expensive. Q4: Can construction management software be used on mobile? A4: Yes, most modern construction management software tools offer mobile apps for real-time updates, task management, and communication. Q5: How much does construction management software cost? A5: Pricing varies depending on the tool, with some offering subscription-based pricing starting at $49 per month, while others have custom pricing for larger enterprises. View the full article

Several major U.S. cities support the Apple Pay for transit feature that Apple has rolled out, providing a simple way for those who use public transportation to pay for rides. ‌Apple Pay‌ for transit works in Atlanta, the Bay Area, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Orange County, Philadelphia, Portland, San Diego, Seattle, and Washington, DC. Some of these cities have supported ‌Apple Pay‌ for transit purposes for several years, and in others like Atlanta, support is new as of 2026. Atlanta launched its tap-to-pay MARTA contactless system in March 2026, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to tap to pay their fares at rail station fare gates using the Apple Wallet app. Cities that support ‌Apple Pay‌ for transit allow iPhone owners to turn on Express Mode to pay for transit fares without needing to unlock their device and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID. A card for Express Transit can be selected by opening up the Wallet and ‌Apple Pay‌ section of the Settings app and tapping on the Express Transit Card option to make a selection. When a credit or debit card is associated with Express Mode, it can be used to pay for transit automatically with no authentication. On iPhone models that support power reserve, transit payments can also be made when the iPhone is out of battery. Power reserve works for up to five hours after an iPhone dies, and it is available on the iPhone XS and later. Some cities support adding a credit or debit card to the Wallet app for transit, while others require a specific transit card to be added to the Wallet app. The Bay Area works with the Clipper app or a credit card. Chicago's system only works with the Ventra card, LA's transit works with the TAP card, and Portland's transit system works with the Hop card. In some locations, there's also support for fare capping. With New York's OMNY system, for example, subway and local bus fares are capped at $35 per week. As long as you use the same device each time you tap pay for a ride, rides after the $35 cap will be free for the rest of the seven-day period. LA's TAP system and OC's Wave system also support fare capping for ‌Apple Pay‌. The iPhone 6s and 2016 iPhone SE and later all support Express Mode with ‌Apple Pay‌ for transit purposes. Express Mode also works on the Apple Watch Series 1 or later as long as watchOS 5.2.1 or later is installed. ‌Apple Pay‌ for transit also works in several cities around the world, including London, Paris, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Toronto, Beijing, and Shanghai. When traveling, you will need to look into how transit works in the city you're in, but it is a simple way to use public transportation because there's no need to pre-purchase travel tickets at a kiosk. Apple has a website where the different transit systems are explained.Related Roundup: Apple PayTags: Apple Wallet, Express TransitRelated Forum: Apple Music, Apple Pay/Card, iCloud, Fitness+ This article, "Apple Pay for Transit Now Works in These 12 U.S. Cities" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Anthropic today updated Claude with new connectors aimed at creative professionals, adding integrations for Ableton, Adobe, Affinity, Autodesk Fusion, Blender, Resolume Arena and Wire, SketchUp, and Splice. Connectors are tools that Claude can use to access other platforms and help with completing tasks. Anthropic says that Claude can open up new ways for creatives to work and take on larger-scale projects. Ableton - Allows users to ask questions about the official product documentation for Live and Push. Adobe - More than 50 tools across Creative Cloud apps like Photoshop, Premiere, and Express are available. Affinity - The Affinity connector lets users automate repetitive production tasks and generate custom features. Autodesk Fusion - Fusion subscribers can create and modify 3D models through conversations with Claude. Blender - The Blender connector adds a natural-language interface for the Python API. Users can analyze and debug Blender scenes, build custom scripts to batch-apply changes to objects, and add new tools to the Blender interface. Blender's documentation is also available. Resolume Arena and Wire - Visual artists can control Arena, Avenue, and Wire in real time with natural language. SketchUp - Users can describe an idea to Claude as a starting point for a 3D model and then open it in SketchUp for further revision. Splice - Music producers can search Splice's catalog of royalty-free samples. Anthropic suggests that Claude can be helpful for multiple creative tasks, offering tutoring for complex tools, writing scripts and plugins for software, translating formats and restructuring data, and completing repetitive production work.Tag: Anthropic This article, "Claude Gains Integrations With Adobe, Blender, SketchUp and Other Creative Apps" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

YouTube is testing a new search feature that it says is meant to feel more like a conversation than a search interface. Users are able to ask complex questions in natural language, receive results that include video and text, and then ask follow-up questions. The new search option is part of YouTube Labs, an opt-in program that lets YouTube Premium subscribers gain early access to experimental features and prototypes. YouTube Labs is available to U.S. users, and subscribers sign up on the YouTube Labs website. According to YouTube, subscribers who opt in to try the new search can enter a prompt in the search bar, like "plan a 3-day road trip between San Francisco and Santa Barbara," and then select the Ask YouTube option to get the results. Search results include AI summary text, short videos, and long videos, with relevant segments in videos highlighted. The Ask YouTube search interface suggests some search prompts, such as "unique ideas for a backyard water feature," "plan a living room redesign using thrifted items," and "how to make a traditional French omelet." Other YouTube Labs features in testing right now include Beyond the Beat AI details when listening to radio and mixes in the YouTube Music app, and VibeCheck, an AI coaching feature that provides tips on Shorts videos before they're published. The updated search feature will be in testing until June 8. This article, "YouTube Tests AI-Powered 'Ask YouTube' Conversational Search Feature" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple will add new Apple Intelligence photo editing tools to the Photos app in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27, reports Bloomberg. On-device ‌Apple Intelligence‌ will be able to make subtle changes to image quality, positioning, and focus, with the new capabilities joining Clean Up, the sole AI editing feature that Apple has released to date. The ‌Photos‌ app in ‌iOS 27‌, iPadOS 27, and ‌macOS 27‌ will have an ‌Apple Intelligence‌ Tools section when editing an image. Options will include Extend, Enhance, and Reframe. Extend - Extend generates additional image content beyond the original frame of the photo, filling in scenery when changing the crop of an image. This tool will support expanding the edges of an image with zoom gestures. Enhance - Uses AI to automatically tweak color, lighting, and other image parameters, similar to how the auto editing feature works now. Reframe - When used with spatial photos, Reframe will let users change the perspective of an image after it's captured. Apple apparently hasn't gotten the tools working perfectly, so Extend and Reframe could be delayed or scaled back. Clean Up, Apple's existing AI tool, still has issues even a year and a half after launching. It is able to remove unwanted objects from an image, but it is not as good at filling in missing information as other AI tools from smartphone makers like Samsung and Google. More on the features coming in ‌iOS 27‌, including Siri updates, can be found in our iOS 27 roundup. ‌iOS 27‌ will be previewed at the WWDC 2026 keynote that's set to take place on June 8, 2026.Related Roundup: iOS 27Tag: Apple Intelligence This article, "iOS 27 to Add New Apple Intelligence Photo Editing Tools" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

If you've noticed the Apple Weather app isn't loading weather data right now, you're not alone. The app appears to be experiencing an outage. According to Apple's System Status page, the Weather app may be slow or unavailable for some users. The problem started at 11:36 a.m. Eastern Time and is ongoing. Reports on social media suggest that the Weather app is slow to load for some, and is not loading data for others. We'll update this article when the issue has been resolved. This article, "Apple Weather App Experiencing Outage" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple CEO Tim Cook met with United States Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on Monday. The U.S. Department of Commerce shared details on the meeting on social media, and said that Lutnick wished Cook well, commending his "remarkable leadership and lasting contributions to American technology." Last week, Apple announced that Cook would be stepping down from his role as CEO on September 1, 2026, with current hardware engineering chief John Ternus set to take over. Cook's visit with Lutnick was his first high-level Trump administration meeting since last week's transition news. Cook does not plan to leave Apple, and will instead transition to executive chairman, where he will "assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world." In a letter to employees, Cook said that he is healthy and that he plans to be at Apple "for a long time" in his new role. "Apple will be my top priority," he said. "It's who I am at my core, and I can't imagine it any other way." Cook told employees that he believes he can help strengthen Apple's global relationships. Cook has navigated two Trump presidencies so far, maintaining a positive relationship with the Trump administration and earning tariff exemptions for Apple. Cook personally donated $1 million to Trump's inaugural fund in 2025, and he presented Trump with a custom gift featuring a glass plaque with a 24-karat gold base after promising Apple would invest a total of $600 billion in the U.S. over a four-year period. Trump last week said that he has "always been a big fan" of Cook, and that the two had a "long and very nice relationship." Trump said he was pleased with Cook's outreach efforts. "I was very impressed with myself to have the head of Apple calling to 'kiss my ass,'" said Trump. According to Trump, he solved a "fairly large problem" for Cook during his first term, and he said he would help Cook where possible when Cook is not "too aggressive" in what he asks for. Ahead of announcing his transition to a new role, Cook said in an early April interview that the Trump administration was "very accessible," and willing to "engage." Cook explained that he felt engagement and communication were important values, giving some insight into how he is approaching his new position. But engagement for me, not just in the U.S. but around the world, is so important because it is very complex, working through local laws, local customs, local culture, local regulations. Every country is its own story. Everybody looks at things differently. The only way you get a feel for that is to sit before someone and communicate and engage. If you went in my conference room, you would see the Teddy Roosevelt quote 'It is not the critic who counts.' I've never believed that just yelling from the sideline about plus or minus was a good strategy. Your voice just goes into the wind. So you'll see me everywhere, and you'll wonder 'oh, he's meeting with somebody that has a different view than him.' I think that's good. I think it's good. I think a problem in the world right now is that it's so polarized and different views aren't shared or discussed. They just become hardened. And I don't think that's good. With Cook taking on communication with policymakers around the world, incoming CEO John Ternus will be able to spend more time focusing on Apple's growth, and he won't be exposed to the same criticism that Cook has faced for his relationship with Trump and other world leaders. Cook is still in Washington and he attended today's State Arrival Ceremony for King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who began their four-day state visit on Monday. Cook may also attend the State Dinner this evening.Tag: Tim Cook This article, "Tim Cook Meets With Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick Ahead of CEO Transition" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple last month announced a new MacBook Air, introducing the M5 chip, faster wireless connectivity, double the base storage, and a more capable charger, while simultaneously discontinuing the M4 model. So how does the new machine compare? The M5 MacBook Air starts at $1,099 for the 13-inch model and $1,299 for the 15-inch, a $100 increase over the equivalent M4 models. In exchange, base storage doubles from 256GB to 512GB, and Apple says the new SSD delivers twice the read and write speeds of the previous generation. Education pricing is also available directly from Apple and typically shaves at least $100 off the price. The main upgrade between the two models is the chip. Compared to the M4, the M5 delivers: Up to 15% faster multithreaded CPU performance Up to 30% faster overall graphics performance Up to 45% faster ray tracing performance 27.5% higher unified memory bandwidth In addition to these general performance claims, Apple published a set of specific real-world workload results showing measurable gains in AI-driven applications: 4×+ peak GPU compute performance for AI 3.6× faster time to first token (LLM) 1.8× faster Topaz Video Enhance AI processing 1.7× faster Blender ray-traced rendering 2.9× faster AI speech enhancement in Premiere Pro Beyond raw performance, the M5 introduces several meaningful architectural changes. The GPU includes a dedicated Neural Accelerator in every core, a hardware addition absent from the M4, and Apple is exposing this via new Metal 4 developer APIs with Tensor capabilities. The ray tracing engine advances to its third generation, and dynamic caching moves to its second generation. Memory bandwidth rises from 120 GB/s to 153 GB/s, enabled by the move from TSMC's second-generation 3nm process (N3E) to its third-generation ‌3nm‌ process (N3P). The M5 ‌MacBook Air‌ also gains Apple's N1 wireless chip, bringing Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 in place of the M4 model's Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. ‌MacBook Air‌ (2025) ‌MacBook Air‌ (2026) Apple M4 chip Apple M5 chip Based on A18 chip from 2024's iPhone 16 Based on A19 Pro chip from 2025's iPhone 17 Pro 4 performance + 6 efficiency cores 4 super cores + 6 efficiency cores Made with TSMC's second-generation ‌3nm‌ node (N3E) Made with TSMC's third-generation ‌3nm‌ node (N3P) No integrated Neural Accelerators Integrated Neural Accelerator in every GPU core Metal 3 developer APIs Metal 4 developer APIs with Tensor APIs to program GPU Neural Accelerators Second-generation ray tracing engine Third-generation ray tracing engine First-generation dynamic caching Second-generation dynamic caching Shader cores Enhanced shader cores 120 GB/s memory bandwidth 153 GB/s memory bandwidth Apple N1 chip Wi-Fi 6E Wi-Fi 7 Bluetooth 5.3 Bluetooth 6 (Apple N1 chip) Support for up to two external displays when the lid is open Support for up to two external displays simultaneously over a single Thunderbolt port; one display up to 8K at 60Hz or 5K at 120Hz 30W USB-C Power Adapter 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max 256GB base storage, up to 2TB 512GB base storage, up to 4TB Introduced in March 2025 Introduced in March 2026 Started at $999 (13-inch), $1,199 (15-inch) Starts at $1,099 (13-inch), $1,299 (15-inch) For users whose workloads include on-device AI inference, complex 3D rendering, or other GPU-bound and memory-intensive tasks, the jump from M4 to M5 is significant. The combination of per-core Neural Accelerators, higher memory bandwidth, and the new GPU architecture produces multi-fold speed-ups in specific AI operations. In environments where time-to-result directly affects workflow such as local LLMs, diffusion models, video enhancement, or ray-traced production, the M5 represents a meaningful step-change. For typical day-to-day usage including browsing, office work, media playback, and basic editing, the difference is highly unlikely to be perceptible in any way. The M4 was already a high-performance chip that routinely exceeded the demands of normal Mac workloads, and for the overwhelming majority of M4 ‌MacBook Air‌ owners, there is clearly no general-purpose reason to upgrade. For new buyers choosing between the two models, the M5 is the more straightforward long-term choice. The doubled base storage alone changes the value calculus, and when you consider that Apple previously charged $200 to upgrade the M4 Air from 256GB to 512GB, the M5 effectively costs $100 less than a comparably configured M4 model would have at launch. If future-proofing is a priority and you intend to keep the machine for many years, the M5 model will be better equipped to handle increasingly prevalent on-device AI workloads as they mature. Related Roundup: MacBook AirBuyer's Guide: MacBook Air (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Air This article, "M4 vs. M5 MacBook Air Buyer's Guide" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's Vision Pro has hit another medical-use milestone, with a New York ophthalmologist becoming the first surgeon to perform cataract surgery using the spatial computing headset. Dr. Eric Rosenberg of SightMD completed the initial procedure in October 2025 and has since performed hundreds of additional cases using ScopeXR, a surgical platform he co-developed for Apple's mixed reality device. ScopeXR streams live feeds from 3D digital surgical microscopes directly into the Vision Pro, which lets the surgeon view the operative field in stereoscopic 3D while overlaying preoperative diagnostic data. The platform also supports real-time remote collaboration, allowing surgeons to virtually join procedures and see exactly what the operating surgeon sees. "We are now able to bring the world's best surgeon into any operating room, at any hour, from anywhere on the planet," said Dr. Rosenberg in a company press release. "From residents performing their first cases to surgeons facing unexpected complications, this technology democratizes access to expertise and that will save vision."It's another example of Apple's move toward enterprise and professional use cases for Vision Pro, with widespread consumer adoption beleaguered by the headset's $3,499 starting price and bulky form factor. Apple has increasingly leaned into specialized applications in fields like medicine, aviation training, and industrial design - markets where the device's capabilities can justify its cost, in other words. The headset was never expected to be mass-market from day one, according to Apple. Even so, enthusiasm is said to have cooled far faster than anticipated. Based on the latest reports, there are now no Apple Vision headsets in active development, with the company's focus pivoting to lightweight smart glasses, where Meta has already seen success. Last October, Apple introduced an updated Vision Pro model featuring the M5 chip, the first hardware revision of the device.Related Roundup: Apple Vision ProBuyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: Apple Vision Pro This article, "Apple Vision Pro Used in World-First Cataract Surgery" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today announced that its hit comedy-drama series "Ted Lasso" is returning for a fourth season with a first episode on Wednesday, August 5. One new episode will follow every Wednesday thereafter through October 7. "Ted Lasso" is one of the most popular shows ever released on the Apple TV streaming service. The eponymous character Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis, starts off as a small-time football coach from Kansas who is hired to coach a professional soccer team in England, despite having no experience coaching soccer. In the fourth season, Apple says Lasso returns to England to take on his biggest challenge yet: coaching a second division women's soccer team. "Throughout the course of the season, Ted and the team learn to leap before they look, taking chances they never thought they would," said Apple. Apple has shared a teaser trailer for the new season. Fan favorites such as Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, Brett Goldstein, Brendan Hunt, and Jeremy Swift are all set to return in the fourth season. The third season of "Ted Lasso" was released in 2023, so there has been a long wait for a fourth season. The series has won several major awards since it debuted in 2020, with its overall positive tone making it a popular comfort show.Tags: Apple TV Service, Apple TV Shows This article, "Apple Shares 'Ted Lasso' Season Four Streaming Date and Teaser Trailer" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Amazon today has the AirPods Pro 3 available for $199.99, down from $249.00. This is a match of the all-time low price on the AirPods Pro 3, and it's accompanied by a solid deal on the AirPods 4. 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. This model of the AirPods Pro launched in September 2025 and has 2x better Active Noise Cancellation than the previous generation, better audio quality, a revised fit that's meant to improve comfort and stability, Live Translation for in-person conversations, and heart rate sensing for workouts. $49 OFFAirPods Pro 3 for $199.99 You can also get the AirPods 4 for $99.00, down from $129.00. This is a second-best price on the AirPods 4, which is the base model without Active Noise Cancellation. Amazon provides a May 4 estimated delivery date for free shipping, with faster delivery options for Prime members. $30 OFFAirPods 4 for $99.00 Head to our full Deals Roundup to get caught up with all of the latest deals and discounts that we've been tracking over 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 This article, "AirPods Pro 3 Return to $199.99 Low Price on Amazon" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's 20th-anniversary iPhone will use a new type of curved screen technology that more effectively hides the display bezels from the user's line of sight for a purer viewing experience, claims a Chinese leaker. Apple is reportedly planning a radical redesign for the 20th-anniversary iPhone that could feature a display that curves around all four edges of the device. To achieve this, Apple will reportedly use an equal-depth quad-curved panel supplied by Samsung, and it sounds like it's going to be quite different from typical curved screens. According to leaker Ice Universe, "It is not a traditional quad curved display, nor is it anything like the curved screen solutions we have seen on Android phones over the years." This is said to be down to its extremely subtle curvature, but there are apparently other factors that could come into play. "What truly creates the visual impact may be a sophisticated combination of optical refraction, light guiding structures, and carefully engineered visual illusion," said Ice Universe, writing in a post on X. "The end result could be a display where the bezel nearly disappears from sight, while edge viewing remains natural and undisturbed."Apple will also reportedly adopt a Samsung-made OLED technology called COE (Color Filter on Encapsulation) to make the 20th-anniversary iPhone's display brighter and thinner than previous panels. Apple may refer to it as a "Liquid Glass Display," in a nod to its latest software interface redesign, claims the leaker. Apple may define its next generation display as "Liquid Glass Display." It is not a traditional quad curved display, nor is it anything like the curved screen solutions we have seen on Android phones over the years. The curvature itself could be extremely subtle. What truly... pic.twitter.com/onj81yNWQf — Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) April 27, 2026 To mark the 20th-anniversary of the iPhone in 2027, Apple ideally wants an uninterrupted display with no cutouts for the most visual impact, but concealing the Face ID system and selfie camera under the panel is going to be a challenge. Display analyst Ross Young has said that Apple won't have under-display ‌Face ID‌ ready to go for a 2027 iPhone, but other leakers think it's possible. If Apple can't get everything under the display, we may see under-display ‌Face ID‌ and then a small hole-punch cutout on the front for the front-facing camera.Tags: 20th-Anniversary iPhone, Ice Universe This article, "20th Anniversary iPhone's 'Liquid Glass' Display to Make Bezels Vanish" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

CONTENT WARNING: The following article discusses the death of a teenage girl UK punk festival mainstay Slam Dunk has confirmed one of its directors has stepped down following serious allegations that surfaced earlier this week. While the individual wasn’t named in the official statement, reports have pointed to founder Ben Ray, after a woman publicly accused him of sexual assault on April 23 via social media. The claims were accompanied by what’s alleged to be a screenshot of a conversation between the two. Official Statement From Slam Dunk: In a statement, Slam Dunk organisers said they are aware of the allegations and are taking them seriously, acknowledging the impact the situation may have on their community. They also confirmed the unnamed director denies the claims but has agreed to step away from festival operations while the matter proceeds through legal channels. “While he strongly refutes these allegations, the director in question has agreed, in consultation with the board, to step down… while this matter is ongoing,” the statement reads. The festival added that the safety and wellbeing of fans, staff and artists remains its top priority, and that it is committed to maintaining a “safe, respectful and inclusive environment.” Organisers declined to comment further, citing the ongoing legal process, but said they will provide updates when appropriate. The development comes just weeks out from the 2026 edition of Slam Dunk Festival, which is set to take place across the UK in late May, with a lineup featuring acts like Good Charlotte, Knocked Loose and Sublime. At this stage, no further official comment has been made beyond the festival’s statement. If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the Australian National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service — can be reached on 1800 737 732. Further Reading Hellbound II Lineup: Parkway Drive, Thy Art Is Murder + MORE The Amity Affliction Announce Sydney Opera House Forecourt Show Good Things Festival Confirms It’ll Be Back In 2026 The post Slam Dunk UK Festival Director Steps Down Amid Allegations appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Thirty years later and still absolutely flooring it… US punk-metal lifers Strung Out are heading back to Australia this September to celebrate three decades of their cult-classic album Suburban Teenage Wasteland Blues – and yep, they’re bringing the whole high-speed chaos with them. Strung Out – ‘Suburban Teenage Wasteland Blues’ Originally dropping in 1996, Suburban Teenage Wasteland Blues is one of those records that didn’t just age well — it straight-up refuses to slow down. Thirteen tracks, barely half an hour, zero filler. From the opening blast of ‘Firecracker’ to the final punch of ‘Wrong Side of the Tracks’, it’s all razor-wire riffs, melodic hooks and breakneck urgency — and it still hits like a truck in 2026. Across ten albums and decades on the road, Strung Out have built a reputation as one of punk’s most relentless live acts — tight, loud, and no-nonsense. No nostalgia-for-the-sake-of-it here either — just a band that’s still operating at full throttle. This run will see Suburban Teenage Wasteland Blues woven throughout the set, alongside fan faves from across their catalogue. Further Reading Hellbound II Lineup: Parkway Drive, Thy Art Is Murder + MORE Holding Absence Announce First Ever Australian Headline Tour LIVE REVIEW FLASHBACK: Strung Out and Bad Religion, The Hi-Fi, Sydney 2012 The post Strung Out Confirm Australian Tour For ‘Suburban Teenage Wasteland Blues’ Anniversary appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Indie royalty, three shows, and a cheeky Hills End flex? Say less. Sydney’s own DMA’S are back with a tidy little (read: massive) announcement – a brand new self-titled album landing August 7, plus a super limited run of three exclusive Aussie headline shows this November/December. DMA’S – ‘Heatin Park’ The East Coast lap kicks off at Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall on Nov 27, rolls into Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens for a lush Live At The Gardens moment on Nov 28, before wrapping up with a huge hometown flex at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt on Dec 3. Yep – that one’s gonna be special. And because they know exactly what the people want, DMA’S are also throwing in a Hills End anniversary set to celebrate 10 years of their debut – a nod to the record that kicked off their rise from local heroes to global festival mainstays. The new self-titled album marks a fresh chapter for the trio, blending their signature anthemic indie sound with some new textures, co-produced alongside Lachlan Bostock (Mansionair), plus collaborators Jimi Somewhere and Styalz Fuego. Latest single ‘Heatin Park’ is already showing off that range – gritty, distorted, and stadium-sized – a sharp left turn from the dreamy vibes of ‘My Baby’s Place’. Between Glasto, Coachella, Splendour and basically every big stage going, DMA’S have long proven they can go toe-to-toe with the world’s best – but there’s something about a hometown run that just hits different. DMA’S – Australia 2026 (3 Exclusive Shows) Friday 27 November – Brisbane, Fortitude Music Hall Saturday 28 November – Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens Thursday 3 December – Sydney, On The Steps at Sydney Opera House Forecourt Album Pre-order Presale: Thurs 30 April, 10am – Friday 1 May, 12pm Mastercard / Promoter* Presales: 24 hour window – Thurs 30 April, 12pm – Fri 1 May, 12pm SOH What’s On Presale: Thurs 30 April, 2pm – Friday 1 May, 12pm General Public on sale: Friday 1 May, 1pm here Further Reading triple j’s Hottest 100 Of Australian Songs: The Complete List Ruel And DMA’s Release First Of Two New Collaborative Singles, ‘What A Life’ DMA’S Reveal Unheard ‘Delete’ Demo on ‘What a Great Punk’ Podcast The post DMA’S Confirm East Coast Tour + New Self-Titled Album appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Metalcore multiverse moment incoming… US heavyweights August Burns Red have just dropped a brand new heater, ‘Sonic Salvation’, and they’ve roped in none other than Jamie Hails from Aussie juggernauts Polaris for the ride. And yep, it absolutely goes as hard as you’re hoping. August Burns Red – ‘Sonic Salvation’ ft. Jamie Hails Lifted from their upcoming album Season Of Surrender (out June 5 via Fearless Records), ‘Sonic Salvation’ is pure catharsis – punishing breakdowns, massive gang chants, and that sweet spot where melody meets chaos. Guitarist JB Brubaker says the track was written to give more space for vocals and lean further into their hardcore roots, while frontman Jake Luhrs frames it as a love letter to music itself, the thing that pulls us back from the brink, connects scenes, and keeps the whole engine running. And then there’s Jamie Hails, who steps in and absolutely launches the track into the stratosphere. It’s a collab that just makes sense – especially given ABR’s long-standing love affair with Aussie crowds, and Polaris’ status as one of the country’s most beloved heavy exports right now. The accompanying video doubles down on that connection too, featuring fans singing and playing along – a nod to the global metal community that’s kept ABR thriving for over two decades. Wholesome? Yes. Still heavy as hell? Also yes. The drop lands just ahead of ABR’s return to Australia this September/October, where they’ll headline their first run here in seven years – and crucially, the first place in the world they’ll be touring behind Season Of Surrender. If ‘Sonic Salvation’ is anything to go by, those shows are about to be feral. Safe to say: the pits are preheating. August Burns Red 2026 Australian Tour Dates With Bloom & I Promised The World (US) Sun 27 Sept – Perth, Freo Social Tue 29 Sept – Adelaide, The Gov Thu 1 Oct – Melbourne, 170 Russell Fri 2 Oct – Sydney, Liberty Hall Sat 3 Oct – Newcastle, King St Bandroom Sun 4 Oct – Brisbane, The Tivoli Further Reading August Burns Red Announce 2026 Australian Tour Bloom Take Us Track By Track On Their New Album, ‘The Light We Chase’ August Burns Red Just Turned The ‘Home Alone’ Theme Into A Punk Christmas Anthem The post August Burns Red Drop ‘Sonic Salvation’ Featuring Polaris’ Jamie Hails appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Strap in – this one’s gonna hit like a dropkick to the sternum. Florida metalcore wrecking ball Wage War are bringing their It Calls Me By Name world tour to Australia this July and August, and they’re not coming alone. Joining the carnage are Nashville chaos merchants Orthodox and Melbourne’s own pit-starters Heavensgate – aka a lineup engineered specifically to ruin your neck (in the best way). Wage War – ‘SONG OF THE SWAMP’ The run kicks off Thursday 30 July in Perth, before tearing through Adelaide, Melbourne and Brisbane, wrapping up in Sydney on Friday 7 August. If you caught Wage War at Knotfest 2024, you already know the deal – this is “stadium metalcore” with a mean left hook and hooks big enough to scream back at the band. Across a decade of chaos, Wage War have carved out their lane with a lethal combo of bone-snapping breakdowns and massive, melodic choruses… the kind that stick in your head while your body’s still recovering. Their latest chapter, including 2024’s Stigma and the freshly dropped It Calls Me By Name EP, doubles down on that formula, pulling inspiration from their Florida roots – swampy, aggressive, and absolutely relentless. Meanwhile, Orthodox are here to make things uncomfortable in the best possible way, blending metallic hardcore chaos with nu-metal groove and pure fury, while Heavensgate continue their rapid ascent as one of Australia’s most ferocious new heavy exports. Suss the deets down below. WAGE WAR – AUSTRALIA 2026 TOUR DATES with Orthodox (USA) + Heavensgate THURSDAY 30 JULY – FREO SOCIAL, PERTH 18+ SATURDAY 1 AUGUST – THE GOV, ADELAIDE LIC AA SUNDAY 2 AUGUST – 170 RUSSELL, MELBOURNE 18+ THURSDAY 6 AUGUST – THE TIVOLI, BRISBANE 18+ FRIDAY 7 AUGUST – METRO THEATRE, SYDNEY LIC AA General tickets on sale: Friday 1 May @ 10am local time via destroyalllines.com Further Reading Hellbound II Lineup: Parkway Drive, Thy Art Is Murder + MORE NEWS FLASHBACK: US Metalcore Giants Wage War Announce New Album, ‘STIGMA’ “We Just Want People To Know That They’re Not Alone”: Wage War On New Album ‘Manic’ The post Wage War Confirm 2026 Australian Headline Tour appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Heavy music on the steps of the Opera House? Yeah… we’re gonna need a minute. Aussie metalcore titans The Amity Affliction have just announced their only Australian headline show to celebrate their brand new album House of Cards – and they’re doing it in seriously iconic fashion. The band will take over the Sydney Opera House Forecourt as part of the On The Steps series on Saturday 12 December 2026, marking a rare, one-night-only hometown victory lap on one of the country’s most recognisable stages. The Amity Affliction – ‘Heaven Sent’ Fresh off the release of House of Cards, Amity aren’t here for reinvention arcs or redemption stories – this is a band fully locked into who they are, and why they’re still here. More than two decades deep, they’ve built a global following on raw honesty and emotional weight, and this new record leans all the way into that. It’s explosive, defiant, and shaped by some seriously heavy real-life experiences — from personal loss to near-breaking points – all channelled into something that hits just as hard as anything in their catalogue. If anything, this Opera House show feels like a full-circle moment. From sweaty local venues and Warped Tour chaos to one of the most iconic stages in the world, Amity’s trajectory has always been powered by connection – the kind that turns songs about grief, addiction and survival into something communal and cathartic. Tickets go on sale Friday 1 May at 11am, and given this is their only Aussie headline show tied to the album, you can safely assume it won’t hang around. Suss the details down below. THE AMITY AFFLICTION – ON THE STEPS AT SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE FORECOURT Saturday, 12th December 2026 – Sydney Opera House Forecourt Mastercard Presale: Wednesday 29 April, 10am – Friday 1 May, 10am Live Nation Presale: Thursday 30 April, 10am – Friday 1 May, 10am. General public tickets on sale Friday 1 May at 11am. Tickets and more information at livenation.com.au Further Reading Hellbound II Lineup: Parkway Drive, Thy Art Is Murder + MORE Ahren Stringer In Court Over Five Charges From Alleged High-Speed Incident The Amity Affliction Return: New Album ‘House Of Cards’ Announced The post The Amity Affliction Announce Sydney Opera House Forecourt Show appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Apple today announced the launch of a new subscription option for App Store developers: monthly subscriptions with a 12-month commitment. The new option allows developers to offer subscribers discounted pricing typically associated with an annual subscription but paid on a monthly basis to keep payments more affordable. This new payment option allows you to offer subscribers more affordable options. People can cancel their subscription at any time, which will prevent the subscription from renewing after they've completed their agreed-to payments to fulfill their commitment.Apple says that the new feature provides transparency to users by allowing them to easily view the number of completed and remaining payments they've made toward their annual commitment. Apple will also send email and optional push notifications ahead of renewals. Developers can begin creating these new subscription types in ‌App Store‌ Connect and testing them in Xcode starting today, and they will go live to users on iOS 26.4 and equivalent versions for other platforms next month alongside the launch of iOS 26.5 and related updates. Notably, it appears the United States and Singapore will be excluded from these subscriptions for the time being, and there's no word on when they might roll out in these markets.Tag: App Store This article, "Apple Introduces App Store Monthly Subscriptions With 12-Month Commitment" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Another tough headline out of the Aussie heavy scene — and this one’s still unfolding. Former The Amity Affliction vocalist Ahren Stringer is facing five charges relating to a serious driving incident in regional Victoria last year, according to a report by Blunt Mag. Per Blunt, the charges stem from an alleged incident in the Benalla region, where Stringer was reportedly caught driving at speeds of up to 190km/h. Court records indicate the charges include: Driving at a speed dangerous Exceeding the speed limit by 45km/h or more Refusing a preliminary breath test Refusing a preliminary oral fluid test Using a vehicle not in a safe or roadworthy condition Stringer was initially due to appear in court on April 21 for a “plea guilty” hearing, but no plea was entered, with the matter now adjourned until May 26, 2026. The legal situation lands amid a turbulent few years for Stringer. In 2024, he officially parted ways with The Amity Affliction after a long and increasingly strained period between himself and the band. In a joint statement at the time, members Joel Birch, Dan Brown and Joe Longobardi confirmed that the relationship had “completely broken down” while Stringer was dealing with personal challenges, adding that it had become “impossible to continue to tolerate certain behaviours.” Stringer, however, disputed aspects of the split publicly, telling fans he had been “kicked out” of the band and claiming the decision wasn’t his. The departure followed a period where he had stepped back from touring to focus on his mental health, before briefly rejoining for an Australian run later that year. As it stands, the current case remains ongoing, with more clarity expected when proceedings resume in late May. Further Reading The Amity Affliction Have Officially Parted Ways With Founding Member Ahren Stringer Amity Affliction Singer Ahren Stringer Says He’s Got New Solo Music “Coming Real Soon” The Amity Affliction Announce Ahren Stringer’s Departure From US Tour To Receive Mental Health Support The post Ahren Stringer In Court Over Five Charges From Alleged High-Speed Incident appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Spotify today 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 This article, "Spotify Launches Fitness Hub With 1,400+ Peloton Workouts" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today provided the fourth beta of an upcoming 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 TahoeRelated Forum: macOS Tahoe This article, "Fourth macOS Tahoe 26.5 Beta Now Available for Developers" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today seeded the fourth betas of upcoming iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 updates to developers for testing purposes, with the software coming a week after Apple released the third betas. 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 26Related Forum: iOS 26 This article, "Apple Seeds Fourth iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 Betas to Developers" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today provided developers with the fourth betas of upcoming watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 betas for testing purposes. The software comes a week after Apple released the third betas for each platform. 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 26Buyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy), Vision Pro (Buy Now)Related Forums: Apple TV and Home Theater, Apple Vision Pro, Apple Watch This article, "Apple Releases Fourth watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5 and visionOS 26.5 Betas" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

The IAM Union representing Apple employees in Towson, Maryland today said that it is filing an Unfair Labor Practice charge [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 This article, "Apple Hit With Unfair Labor Practice Charge for Refusing to Transfer Unionized Towson Workers" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article