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Apple's MacBook Neo has recently been struck by delayed delivery estimates on Apple.com, due to the notebook's booming popularity. However, both Walmart and Amazon offer deliveries as soon as tomorrow, and even feature small discounts on the Neo. Following its launch in March, the ‌MacBook Neo‌ has become a big hit for Apple, with the company struggling to keep the computer in stock online and in Apple stores. As of writing, Apple.com quotes a 2-3 week delivery estimate on every model of the Neo in the U.S. and many other countries. If you want to prioritize saving a bit of money, Amazon has every model of the MacBook Neo for $9 off this week. Free delivery options place the Neo arriving as soon as May 2, while Prime members can get same-day shipping on the 256GB models in many locations. Over at Walmart, you won't find any discounts, but you will find similarly quick delivery estimates. Select locations should see delivery estimates as soon as April 28 through April 29 on every model of the ‌MacBook Neo‌. If you have Walmart+ instead of Amazon Prime, this could be a better option despite the lack of a straight cash discount. The ‌MacBook Neo‌ is Apple's low-cost Mac, priced at $599 for the 256GB model and $699 for the 512GB model with Touch ID. Students can get the computer for even cheaper at $499 through Apple's education store on its website. If you're shopping for the new M5 MacBook Air, Amazon is currently hosting big $150 discounts on nearly every model. Prices now start at $949.99 for the 512GB 13-inch model. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Neo This article, "MacBook Neo Still Seeing Extended Delivery Estimates at Apple, But Amazon and Walmart Have Stock" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple has decided to market two of its new products over the next year as "Ultra" devices, Macworld reports. Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report claims that Apple's first foldable iPhone will be called the "iPhone Ultra." The device will become the highest end option in the lineup. The ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will not be considered part of the iPhone 18 iPhone lineup, despite arriving alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max. This would be just like how the iPhone Air is not considered to be part of the iPhone 17 series. Although Apple is hoping to ship the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ alongside the ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌, it may launch a few weeks later and with scarcer availability. Moreover, Apple is apparently planning to release a "MacBook Ultra" later this year or in early 2027. It will feature an OLED panel and a touchscreen, sitting above the MacBook Pro in the lineup at a "significantly" higher price point. While the device was originally intended to launch later this year, it is now likely pushed back by several months due to memory supply chain shortages. Apple already offers M-series Ultra chips, the Apple Watch Ultra, and CarPlay Ultra. "Ultra" branding for the foldable iPhone and OLED MacBook was previously rumored by Bloomberg, which added that "AirPods Ultra" could also be on the way.Related Roundups: iPhone Fold, MacBook ProTags: iPhone Ultra, MacBook Ultra, MacworldBuyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Pro This article, "Apple Planning to Launch Two New 'Ultra' Products in the Next Year" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

OpenAI is working on a smartphone in what appears to be a significant reversal from previous reports that the company had no plans to enter the phone market, according to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo shared the findings from his latest supply chain checks in a post on X, saying MediaTek and Qualcomm are the chosen chip partners and Luxshare Precision Industry is the exclusive manufacturing partner, with mass production scheduled for 2028. Exact chip specifications and additional suppliers are expected to be finalized by late 2026 or the first quarter of 2027. Kuo argues that the smartphone remains uniquely positioned for AI agent use because it is the only device that captures a user's full real-time state, including location, activity, communication, and context, which he describes as the most important input for real-time AI agent inference. He claims that AI agents will fundamentally change how people interact with a phone, shifting the focus from launching individual apps to completing tasks through a more continuous, context-aware interface. He argues that fully controlling both the operating system and the hardware is the only way for the company to deliver a comprehensive AI agent service, and that a subscription-bundled business model could enable OpenAI to build a developer ecosystem around those agents. Kuo suggests that Luxshare, which has long sought to reduce its dependence on Apple supply chain work, could benefit substantially from an early position in what he frames as the next generation of smartphone hardware. The development represents a notable reversal in OpenAI's publicly stated hardware strategy. Previous reports have consistently described the company's hardware ambitions as centered on non-phone form factors developed in collaboration with Jony Ive, the former Apple design chief whose startup io Products was acquired by OpenAI for $6.5 billion. Those plans include a smart speaker, which is likely the first product to launch, along with smart glasses, a smart lamp, and potentially earbuds. OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane has said the first hardware announcement is expected in the second half of 2026, with launch around early 2027. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman posted on X the same day Kuo published his analysis, writing that it "feels like a good time to seriously rethink how operating systems and user interfaces are designed." Such a device would obviously put OpenAI in direct competition with Apple's iPhone.Tags: Ming-Chi Kuo, OpenAI This article, "OpenAI Reportedly Working on an AI Smartphone to Rival iPhone" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Earlier this month, Amazon introduced a few new record low prices on the M5 MacBook Air and the best deal is back today. You can get the 512GB 13-inch M5 MacBook Air for $949.99, down from $1,099.00, available in all colors. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. You'll find up to $150 off every model of the M5 MacBook Air on Amazon, with free delivery around May 2 for most models. In terms of other 13-inch models, Amazon also has the 24GB/1TB model for $1,349.00, down from $1,499.00. Both of these represent a match for the record low prices for each configuration. $149 OFF13-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $949.99 $150 OFF13-inch M5 MacBook Air (16GB/1TB) for $1,149.00 $150 OFF13-inch M5 MacBook Air (24GB/1TB) for $1,349.00 In terms of the 15-inch models, you'll find up to $150 off the M5 MacBook Air, with multiple color options on sale for each configuration. Prices start at $1,149.99 for the 512GB model, down from $1,299.00, and also include both 1TB models on sale. $149 OFF15-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,149.99 $150 OFF15-inch M5 MacBook Air (16GB/1TB) for $1,349.00 $150 OFF15-inch M5 MacBook Air (24GB/1TB) for $1,549.00 If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Apple's M5 MacBook Air Returns to $949.99 Low Price on Amazon" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Introduction The transition from experimental machine learning to production-grade AI systems has created a significant gap in technical leadership. The Certified MLOps Manager designation is designed to bridge this gap by combining the principles of DevOps with the unique challenges of machine learning lifecycles. This guide is crafted for professionals who want to move beyond building models and start managing the infrastructure, pipelines, and teams that keep those models running at scale. In the modern enterprise, high-performing software delivery is no longer just about code; it is about data and model integrity. As organizations look to scale their AI initiatives, the need for structured governance and operational excellence has become paramount. By following this guide, you will understand how this certification positions you within the broader ecosystem of AIOps School, cloud-native engineering, and platform management. Our goal is to provide a clear roadmap for engineers and managers to make informed decisions about their technical career trajectory. What is the Certified MLOps Manager? The Certified MLOps Manager is a professional credential that signifies a deep understanding of the intersection between data science and operational engineering. Unlike theoretical data science courses, this program focuses heavily on the “Ops” side of the equation. It addresses how to automate the deployment, monitoring, and management of machine learning models in a reliable and repeatable manner within a production environment. It represents a shift from manual, artisanal model deployment to automated, enterprise-grade pipelines. The certification exists because the industry has realized that a model is a liability until it is successfully deployed and monitored. It aligns with modern engineering workflows by emphasizing Version Control for Data (DVC), Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) for ML, and the rigorous monitoring of data drift and model performance. Who Should Pursue Certified MLOps Manager? This certification is ideal for senior software engineers, SREs, and cloud architects who are increasingly tasked with supporting data science teams. If you are responsible for the reliability of applications that leverage AI, this credential provides the necessary framework to manage those specialized workloads. It helps traditional DevOps professionals pivot into the high-growth area of machine learning operations. For engineering managers and technical leaders, the Certified MLOps Manager provides the vocabulary and strategic oversight needed to build and lead multidisciplinary teams. In the Indian market, where many global enterprises are establishing their AI centers of excellence, this certification serves as a powerful differentiator. It is equally relevant for data engineers who want to expand their influence into the deployment and governance phases of the lifecycle. Why Certified MLOps Manager is Valuable in 2026 and Beyond As AI moves from a “nice-to-have” feature to a core component of enterprise software, the demand for professionals who can manage these systems is skyrocketing. Traditional software deployment is relatively predictable, but ML models are non-deterministic and require a different set of management skills. This certification ensures that you remain relevant by mastering the tools and philosophies that handle this complexity. The longevity of this career path is rooted in its focus on principles rather than just specific tools. While tools change, the need for data lineage, model reproducibility, and automated testing remains constant. Investing time in this certification provides a high return on investment because it places you at the center of the most significant architectural shift in the industry—the move toward intelligent, automated systems. Certified MLOps Manager Certification Overview The program is delivered through a structured learning path that emphasizes hands-on mastery over passive consumption. It is hosted on the primary educational platform for operational excellence, offering a curriculum that has been vetted by industry veterans. The assessment approach is designed to test your ability to solve real-world problems rather than just memorizing definitions or syntax. The certification is structured into logical tiers that allow professionals to enter at a level that matches their current experience. Ownership of the certification resides with a body dedicated to advancing the standards of AIOps and MLOps globally. By completing this program, you demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards of production engineering in the context of machine learning. Certified MLOps Manager Certification Tracks & Levels The certification is divided into three distinct levels: Foundation, Professional, and Advanced. The Foundation level focuses on the core concepts of the ML lifecycle and basic pipeline automation. It is designed for those new to the intersection of ML and Ops who need a solid ground in the terminology and basic tooling. The Professional level moves into complex orchestration, monitoring, and security. Here, the focus shifts to specialized tracks such as MLOps for SREs or MLOps for Data Engineers. Finally, the Advanced level is geared toward leadership and architecture, focusing on organizational strategy, cost management (FinOps for ML), and long-term governance. These levels align directly with career progression from individual contributor to principal engineer or manager. Complete Certified MLOps Manager Certification Table TrackLevelWho it’s forPrerequisitesSkills CoveredRecommended OrderCore MLOpsFoundationBeginners, Junior DevsBasic Python, LinuxML Lifecycle, Git, Docker1EngineeringProfessionalSREs, DevOps EngineersFoundation LevelCI/CD for ML, Kubernetes2ManagementProfessionalTeam Leads, PMsBasic ML knowledgeProject Lifecycle, Budgeting3ArchitectureAdvancedPrincipal EngineersProfessional LevelScaling ML, Infrastructure as Code4StrategyAdvancedEngineering ManagersManagement LevelGovernance, Compliance, ROI5 Detailed Guide for Each Certified MLOps Manager Certification Certified MLOps Manager – Foundation Level What it is This certification validates a candidate’s grasp of the fundamental machine learning operations lifecycle. It confirms that the professional understands how data, code, and models interact in a development environment. Who should take it It is suitable for software engineers or data scientists who are new to operationalizing models and want to understand the basic requirements for building a reproducible ML pipeline. Skills you’ll gain understanding the core components of an MLOps pipeline. Versioning data and models alongside code. Basic containerization of machine learning environments. Knowledge of model training vs. inference environments. Real-world projects you should be able to do Create a versioned data repository using DVC. Containerize a simple Scikit-learn model using Docker. Set up a basic GitHub Actions workflow for model testing. Preparation plan 7-14 Days: Focus on the MLOps manifesto and basic terminology. 30 Days: Practice with Git and Docker specifically for ML workloads. 60 Days: Build and document a complete end-to-end toy pipeline. Common mistakes Focusing too much on model accuracy rather than deployment stability. Ignoring data versioning in favor of just code versioning. Best next certification after this Same-track: Professional Engineering Track. Cross-track: DataOps Foundation. Leadership: MLOps Management Track. Certified MLOps Manager – Professional Level What it is This certification validates the ability to build and maintain production-grade ML infrastructure. It focuses on the automation of the entire lifecycle, from data ingestion to continuous monitoring in the cloud. Who should take it This is for experienced DevOps or Data Engineers who are responsible for the uptime and scalability of machine learning models in a business-critical environment. Skills you’ll gain Advanced orchestration using tools like Kubeflow or MLflow. Implementing automated testing for model drift and data quality. Managing GPU and TPU resources in cloud-native environments. Scaling inference services using Kubernetes. Real-world projects you should be able to do Deploy a multi-node Kubeflow cluster on a major cloud provider. Implement a monitoring dashboard that alerts on feature drift. Build a rolling deployment strategy for an ML model with A/B testing. Preparation plan 7-14 Days: Review Kubernetes and advanced container orchestration. 30 Days: Deep dive into MLflow for experiment tracking and registry. 60 Days: Build a full CI/CD pipeline that includes automated model validation. Common mistakes Over-engineering the infrastructure for simple models. Failing to implement proper logging and observability from day one. Best next certification after this Same-track: Advanced Architecture Track. Cross-track: DevSecOps for ML. Leadership: Technical Program Management. Choose Your Learning Path DevOps Path The DevOps path focuses on applying traditional CI/CD principles to the world of machine learning. You will learn how to treat models as software artifacts that need to be tested, packaged, and deployed. This path emphasizes automation, infrastructure as code, and the seamless integration of ML pipelines into existing corporate software delivery systems. It is perfect for those who want to ensure that AI does not become a siloed department. DevSecOps Path The DevSecOps path is critical for organizations dealing with sensitive data and regulated industries. This path teaches you how to secure the ML supply chain, including data privacy, model poisoning prevention, and vulnerability scanning for ML libraries. You will focus on building security into every stage of the pipeline, ensuring that the speed of AI development does not compromise the security posture of the organization. SRE Path The SRE path for MLOps focuses on the reliability and performance of ML systems in production. You will learn about Service Level Objectives (SLOs) specifically for models, handling “black swan” events in data, and managing the latency of high-scale inference services. This path is ideal for engineers who care about uptime, error budgets, and the long-term sustainability of complex, non-deterministic systems. AIOps Path The AIOps path focuses on using artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve IT operations. You will learn how to deploy models that predict outages, automate root cause analysis, and manage huge volumes of telemetry data. This path is distinct because the “customer” of your models is usually the internal IT or platform team, aiming for a self-healing infrastructure. MLOps Path The MLOps path is the core journey of operationalizing data science. It covers the entire lifecycle from data preparation and model training to deployment and monitoring. You will learn the nuances of managing the “three-way” versioning of code, data, and models. This path is the most comprehensive for those who want to be the bridge between data scientists and the production environment. DataOps Path The DataOps path focuses on the “upstream” part of the machine learning lifecycle. It emphasizes data quality, data lineage, and the automated delivery of clean data to ML pipelines. You will learn how to treat data as a product, ensuring that the inputs to your models are reliable, consistent, and compliant with data governance standards. FinOps Path The FinOps path for MLOps is becoming essential as cloud costs for AI training and inference spiral out of control. This path teaches you how to monitor, manage, and optimize the costs of GPU instances, cloud storage, and data transfer. You will learn how to balance model performance with financial accountability, ensuring that AI initiatives remain profitable for the business. Role → Recommended Certified MLOps Manager Certifications RoleRecommended CertificationsDevOps EngineerMLOps Foundation, Professional EngineeringSREMLOps Professional, SRE Specialized TrackPlatform EngineerAdvanced Architecture, MLOps FoundationCloud EngineerProfessional Engineering, FinOps TrackSecurity EngineerDevSecOps for ML TrackData EngineerDataOps Track, MLOps FoundationFinOps PractitionerFinOps for ML TrackEngineering ManagerMLOps Management, Strategy Track Next Certifications to Take After Certified MLOps Manager Same Track Progression Once you have mastered the management aspects of MLOps, the natural progression is to move toward Advanced Architecture or AI Strategy. This involves moving from managing a single team or pipeline to overseeing an entire organization’s machine learning infrastructure. You will focus on multi-cloud strategies, enterprise-wide governance, and the integration of diverse AI technologies into a unified platform. Cross-Track Expansion If you have completed the MLOps track, expanding into DevSecOps or DataOps is highly recommended. Understanding the security implications of your models or the data engineering challenges that precede model training makes you a much more versatile professional. This “T-shaped” skill set allows you to collaborate more effectively across the entire engineering organization. Leadership & Management Track For those looking to move away from day-to-day technical implementation, a transition into technical leadership or product management for AI is a viable path. This focuses on the ROI of ML projects, team building, and aligning technical capabilities with business objectives. It prepares you for roles like VP of Engineering or Chief Data Officer. Training & Certification Support Providers for Certified MLOps Manager DevOpsSchool DevOpsSchool provides an extensive array of resources for those pursuing MLOps credentials. They offer live instructor-led training and a vast library of recorded sessions that cover the technical nuances of pipeline automation. Their focus is on practical, hands-on labs that simulate real-world production environments. They are known for their community support and mentor-driven approach to learning. Cotocus Cotocus specializes in high-end technical training for modern engineering roles. Their approach to MLOps is deeply rooted in cloud-native technologies and Kubernetes. They provide specialized consulting and training services that help professionals understand the complexities of scaling machine learning. Their curriculum is updated frequently to reflect the latest shifts in the industry and tooling. Scmgalaxy Scmgalaxy is a premier destination for configuration management and DevOps resources. They offer a wealth of blog posts, tutorials, and certification guides that assist candidates in navigating the MLOps landscape. Their content is designed to be accessible to working professionals who need to upskill quickly. They provide a strong bridge between traditional software management and modern AI operations. BestDevOps BestDevOps focuses on curating the most effective learning paths for engineers. Their coverage of MLOps is concise and results-oriented, designed to help students pass their certifications while gaining actual job skills. They emphasize the “best practices” of the industry, helping candidates avoid common pitfalls and architectural mistakes during their training journey. devsecopsschool.com DevSecOpsSchool is the leading provider for security-focused engineering training. Their MLOps modules integrate security at every level, from data encryption to model integrity checks. This is the place for professionals who want to ensure their AI systems are not just fast and accurate, but also safe and compliant with global security standards. sreschool.com SRESchool focuses on the reliability and observability aspects of MLOps. Their training emphasizes monitoring, alerting, and incident management for machine learning models. If your goal is to manage models that never sleep and perform consistently under high load, their curriculum provides the necessary engineering rigor and mathematical grounding to succeed. aiopsschool.com AIOpsSchool is the primary host and developer of the MLOps Manager certification. They offer the most direct and comprehensive training for this specific credential. Their programs are designed by practitioners who have built and managed ML systems at scale. By training here, you are getting information directly from the source of the certification standards. dataopsschool.com DataOpsSchool provides the essential foundation for any MLOps professional by focusing on the data layer. Their training covers data pipelines, quality control, and the automation of data delivery. Understanding these concepts is vital for any MLOps manager, as the quality of the model is always limited by the quality of the data it consumes. finopsschool.com FinOpsSchool addresses the critical issue of cloud spending in AI and machine learning. Their training helps managers and engineers understand how to track and optimize the costs associated with massive model training jobs and inference clusters. As businesses demand more transparency in AI spending, the skills learned here become increasingly valuable for career growth. Frequently Asked Questions (General) How long does it take to get certified? Most professionals complete the foundation level in 4-6 weeks, while advanced levels can take 3-6 months. Is there a prerequisite for the management track? While not mandatory, having a basic understanding of the software development lifecycle and Python is highly recommended. What is the pass mark for the exams? Typically, you need a score of 70% or higher to pass the assessment and receive your certification. Can I skip the foundation level? If you have significant documented experience in MLOps, some tracks allow you to challenge the professional level directly. Are the exams lab-based or multiple choice? The certification uses a mix of multiple-choice questions for theory and performance-based labs for practical skills. How long is the certification valid? The certification is valid for two years, after which you must recertify to stay updated with current technologies. Is this certification recognized globally? Yes, it is designed to meet international standards for production engineering and is recognized by major tech hubs. Do I need to be a data scientist to take this? No, this is an operations and management certification; it does not require you to write complex ML algorithms. Does the program cover specific cloud providers like AWS or Azure? The principles are cloud-agnostic, but labs often use major cloud providers to demonstrate real-world implementation. What kind of job support is provided? Most providers offer resume reviews, interview coaching, and access to an exclusive community of MLOps professionals. Is the training available in different time zones? Yes, training providers usually offer both live sessions in various time zones and self-paced recorded options. Can my company pay for this certification? Yes, most organizations have a professional development budget that covers these types of industry-recognized credentials. FAQs on Certified MLOps Manager What makes this different from a standard DevOps certification? It specifically addresses the challenges of data drift, model retraining, and non-deterministic software behavior that standard DevOps does not cover. Will I learn how to use Kubeflow? Yes, Kubeflow is a core component of the professional and engineering tracks within the certification curriculum. How does this certification help an Engineering Manager? It provides the framework to evaluate team performance, manage technical debt in ML systems, and communicate effectively with data scientists. Is Python the only language used in the labs? While Python is the primary language, the focus is on the operational tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and Jenkins. Does the certification cover LLMOps for Large Language Models? The advanced tracks include modules on managing LLMs, including fine-tuning pipelines and vector database operations. How much math is involved in the exam? The math is limited to understanding performance metrics like precision, recall, and monitoring statistics; you won’t be doing calculus. Can I use this certification to pivot from SRE to MLOps? Absolutely, this is one of the most common and successful career pivots facilitated by this specific certification path. Are there any group discounts for enterprise teams? Yes, most training providers offer corporate packages for teams of five or more engineers looking to standardize their MLOps practices. Final Thoughts: Is Certified MLOps Manager Worth It? The decision to pursue a certification should always be based on the practical value it adds to your daily work and your long-term career goals. In the case of the Certified MLOps Manager, the value is clear: it provides a structured, standardized way to handle the most complex part of modern software—AI in production. As companies move past the “hype” phase of AI and into the “execution” phase, the people who can manage these systems will be the most sought-after talent in the market. This certification is not a magic bullet, but it is a powerful tool in your professional arsenal. It demonstrates to employers that you have the discipline, the knowledge, and the practical skills to manage the risks and complexities of machine learning at scale. If you are looking to lead the next wave of technical innovation within your organization, this path is an excellent investment in your future. Focus on the learning, build the projects, and the career growth will naturally follow. View the full article

Amazon today has the AirPods 4 available for $99.00, down from $129.00. This remains one of the best deals on the AirPods 4 so far in 2026, and it's accompanied by a solid deal on the AirPods Max 2. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. Apple's new AirPods Max 2 launched earlier this month, and Amazon is still one of the only retailers offering a discount on the headphones. You can get the Midnight and Starlight color options for $529.99 on Amazon, down from $549.00. $30 OFFAirPods 4 for $99.00 $19 OFFAirPods Max 2 for $529.99 Although this is only a $19 discount on the AirPods Max 2, it's the best markdown you'll find online if you're looking to order the new headphones. Free delivery has the AirPods Max 2 arriving around April 30, but they can be delivered as soon as tomorrow with Prime shipping. If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Get AirPods 4 for $99 and AirPods Max 2 for $529.99 on Amazon" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple is planning to start showing ads in the Apple Maps app this summer, and signs of ads have already shown up in the iOS 26.5 beta as Apple prepares to roll them out. Where Ads Show Up Ads will be displayed in the ‌Apple Maps‌ search interface. Depending on the search, relevant ads will be shown first in search results. Apple is also implementing a new Suggested Places feature in Maps that will show recommendations based on what's trending nearby and the user's recent searches. Suggested Places The Maps app is getting a Suggested Places feature that recommends locations to visit based on trending places that are around you and your recent Maps searches. Ads will be shown in Suggested Places. No Opt-Out Similar to ads in the App Store, there will be no option to turn off ads in ‌Apple Maps‌. Ads will be displayed for all users in the U.S. and Canada. Countries Ads will be shown in ‌Apple Maps‌ in the United States and Canada first, and could expand to other countries in the future. Platforms Ads will be displayed in the Maps app on iPhone and iPad. What Ads Look Like Apple says that ads in Maps will be clearly marked as ads with an "Ad" label, similar to how ads show up in the ‌App Store‌ search results. Businesses will be able to bid for ad placement, which is how ads in the ‌App Store‌ work. The highest bidder for a given term will have their ad shown in the app. Privacy Your location and ads that you see and interact with in the Maps app are not associated with your Apple Account, and the data is not shared with third parties. Beta Testing Apple is laying the groundwork for Maps ads in the iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 betas. There's an ads splash screen in the Maps app along with underlying ad code, but ads are not yet live. Launch Date Apple only said "summer" for the ads launch. "Summer" in the Northern Hemisphere starts on June 21 and ends on September 22. iOS 26.5 is likely to launch in late May or early June, and it's possible ads will be tied to the update.Tag: Apple Maps This article, "Ads Are Coming to Apple Maps This Summer: Here's What to Expect" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

X today launched XChat, a standalone messaging app for the iPhone and iPad, available now on the App Store. XChat allows users to chat with anyone on X in a private, focused space separate from the main X app. At launch, the app supports direct messaging and group chats, audio and video calls, and file sharing. X claims all messages are end-to-end encrypted and PIN protected, with no ads or tracking. Other features include disappearing messages, the ability to edit and delete messages for everyone in a chat, and a mechanism to block or alert users when a screenshot is attempted. The app is free to download and requires iOS 26.0 or later. Chat with anyone on X. Completely private. Now on your home screen. Download for iOS: https://t.co/wBBfjJyJmu pic.twitter.com/u0QeGs1Z3D — XChat (@chat) April 24, 2026 The app has been in testing with a small group of beta users since last year. X says more updates are still planned, with X lead designer Benji Taylor teasing that XChat is "just the beginning of what we're building for messaging." Unlike the main X app, XChat adopts iOS 26 design conventions, including the ‌iOS 26‌ keyboard. The app offers several customization options, including light and dark modes, message permissions, left-swipe interaction settings, and a selection of app icon options. There is also a prominent button within XChat for jumping back to the main X app. XChat can now be downloaded from the App Store in the United States. A release date for an Android version of the app has not yet been announced.Tag: Twitter This article, "XChat App Now Available" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's standard iPhone 18 could feature 12GB of memory for the first time, according to analyst Dan Nystedt. In a new post on X, Nystedt said that the standard ‌iPhone 18‌ will match the 12GB of RAM Apple gave the iPhone 17 Pro and ‌iPhone 17 Pro‌ Max last September. It would mark the first time the entry-level iPhone model has shipped with that much memory. This rumor making the rounds again, add 12GB of RAM. https://t.co/vP14mEn5le — Dan Nystedt (@dnystedt) April 24, 2026 Nystedt also flagged an earlier rumor claiming that Apple has secured TSMC's first 2nm chip production run for the A20 chip set to power the ‌iPhone 18‌ lineup. According to that report, TSMC's 2nm process delivers 15% better computing performance than 3nm, with no loss in power efficiency. The iPhone 17 series uses TSMC's N3P ‌3nm‌ node. The jump to 12GB of RAM on the base model is likely tied to Apple Intelligence. Apple is expected to introduce expanded AI features with iOS 27, which the company is set to announce at WWDC on June 8. On-device AI workloads are memory-intensive, and keeping the entry-level iPhone capable of running ‌Apple Intelligence‌ in full would give Apple reason to push the standard model's memory up to par with last year's Pro tier. The ‌iPhone 18‌ is not expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro this fall. Apple is reportedly planning to delay the standard model until early 2027, alongside the iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air, while the Pro models and the long-anticipated foldable iPhone will ship in the usual fall time frame.Related Roundup: iPhone 18Related Forum: iPhone This article, "iPhone 18 Could Come With 12GB of RAM" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today released a YouTube Short revealing a rare behind-the-scenes look at the making of its playful MacBook Neo introduction video. The short clip gives what Apple describes as "a peek at some handmade magic," revealing the physical models and camera techniques used during production. Apple shows how real-world props were combined with visual effects to produce the final sequences. Apple does not usually share production insights for a major product launch videos. See the original "Hello, MacBook Neo" video below: The MacBook Neo launched in March at $599, and its introductory video was widely noted for its whimsey and charm. The ‌MacBook Neo‌ itself has proven to be very strong seller since its launch; Apple reportedly broke a Mac launch week record in the weeks following its debut, and the device has since sold out of inventory until the middle of next month.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Neo This article, "Apple Shares Behind-the-Scenes Look at MacBook Neo Intro Video" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's first foldable iPhone, dubbed the "iPhone Ultra," could be missing at least five key features present on the iPhone 18 Pro models despite its $2,000 price point. Recent images of dummy models shared by Sonny Dickson and Vadim Yuryev seem to reveal two previously undiscussed missing features of the ‌iPhone Ultra‌: MagSafe and the Action Button. iPhone dummy units are intended to take the place of real devices for testing purposes, particularly for accessory manufacturers, who seek to mass produce items such as cases prior to the announcement of new devices, which necessitates a high level of accuracy and manufacturing precision. Both sets of dummy models show that the volume buttons will be located on the top edge of the device, aligned to the right, similar to the iPad mini. This aspect was first rumored by Weibo leaker "Instant Digital," who said that the motherboard is apparently located on the right side of the device. As to not run cables across the screen to the left side for the volume buttons (where they are located on all other iPhone models), Apple is said to have decided to run them directly upwards, which maximizes internal space. Image via Vadim Yuryev. While a power button and volume buttons in their new location are clearly visible on the dummy models, the Action button is curiously missing. This suggests that the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will be the first iPhone model with no Action button or silent switch. Apple introduced the Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro as a replacement for the silent switch, and it has since come to every available iPhone model. The images of the foldable iPhone dummy models shared so far have been shown alongside mock ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max units. These dupes for the high-end models, like most dummies, clearly show precise indentations for the internal array of ‌MagSafe‌ magnets to help manufacturers obtain correct alignment with their accessories. Image via Vadim Yuryev. Crucially, these indentations are absent on the foldable iPhone dummies, suggesting that the device may not have ‌MagSafe‌. This aspect remains speculative, but at 4.5mm, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is expected to be Apple's thinnest iPhone to date by a considerable margin, so it is not implausible that it could be too thin for ‌MagSafe‌. The ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is believed to be too thin to accommodate Apple's TrueDepth camera array, which is required for Face ID authentication and now located in the Dynamic Island. As a result, Apple is expected to revert to Touch ID on the device. The last iPhone to feature ‌Touch ID‌ was 2022's iPhone SE 3, where it was part of the device's budget offering. The last flagship iPhone with ‌Touch ID‌ was 2016's iPhone 7, so the return of ‌Touch ID‌ as the sole method of authentication on what will be the highest-end iPhone will be unprecedented. Image via Sonny Dickson. As visible on the dummy models, which corroborate a multitude rumors, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is expected to sport only two rear cameras. These are expected to be wide and ultra wide cameras, just like the iPhone 17. Unlike the Pro iPhones, there will be no third camera with telephoto capabilities. Previous rumors indicate that the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will also not have a SIM card slot, again just like the iPhone Air, being compatible with eSIM only. As a result, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ could be missing the following features: ‌Face ID‌/TrueDepth camera array Telephoto camera/third rear camera ‌MagSafe‌ Action Button Physical SIM card slot The ‌iPhone Air‌ lacks Ultra Wide and Telephoto rear cameras, a SIM card slot, and stereo speakers. With a super-thin design, a titanium frame, and a glass back, the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ is expected to be very similar to the ‌iPhone Air‌ in terms of design, and it is possible that similar feature concessions will be present on the device when it launches later this year. There are no indications that the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ will be missing stereo speakers, but it is not out of the question given the other design compromises Apple has chosen to make with the device. The rumored starting price for the ‌iPhone Ultra‌ varies somewhat, but reports agree that it will not be below $1,999. The iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099 and has all of the above missing features, so the ‌iPhone Ultra‌'s compromises could be controversial given its markedly higher price point. The device is expected to launch alongside the ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max in the fall.Related Roundup: iPhone FoldTags: Face ID, Foldable iPhone, iPhone Ultra, MagSafe This article, "Foldable 'iPhone Ultra' Could Be Missing These 5 Key Features Despite $2,000 Price Tag" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

While the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro were just updated with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips last month, bigger changes are reportedly around the corner. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the higher-end MacBook Pro models will be receiving a major redesign by early 2027, and he said that Apple might use "MacBook Ultra" branding for them. If so, the MacBook Ultra would likely be a higher-priced model at the top of the MacBook lineup, sitting above the MacBook Pro entirely. Up to six new features have been rumored so far, including an OLED display, touch capabilities, a Dynamic Island, M6 Pro and M6 Max chips manufactured with TSMC's advanced 2nm process, a thinner design, and built-in cellular connectivity. The exact launch timing remains to be seen, but Gurman recently said that early 2027 is now looking more likely than late 2026 due to the global memory chip shortage. Apple's supply of RAM is constrained, which might push back the launch. Keep in mind that the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M6 chip is not expected to receive many of the changes listed below. Apple last redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021, when the M1 Pro and M1 Max models launched, so the MacBook Ultra would represent the first major redesign in at least five years and is a model that many customers are holding out for. Below, we recap rumored MacBook Ultra features. OLED Display Regardless of whether Apple uses MacBook Pro or MacBook Ultra branding, it is widely expected that these will be the first MacBooks with OLED displays. The current MacBook Pro models are equipped with LCD displays with mini-LED backlighting. The move to OLED technology would result in improved image quality, thanks to richer colors and higher contrast ratio with true blacks. All of the iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad Pro models that Apple sells today are already equipped with OLED displays, excluding refurbished models. Touch Screen Not only will the MacBook Ultra be moving to OLED, but the display will apparently have touch-screen capabilities too. This functionality would allow Mac users to use both their fingers and a keyboard and mouse/trackpad for input. Steve Jobs said that a touch-screen Mac would cause arm fatigue, but he made that comment a long time ago, and Apple does reverse course from time to time. Dynamic Island Yet another display-related change rumored for the MacBook Ultra is a hole-punch camera, and this will pave the way for a Dynamic Island instead of a notch. With a Dynamic Island, the MacBook Ultra would be another step towards a truly edge-to-edge display with thin bezels. Like on the iPhone, the Dynamic Island would display things such as low battery life alerts and AirPods connection indicators in the area surrounding the camera at the top-center part of the screen. M6 Pro and M6 Max Chips This one is obvious, but the MacBook Ultra is expected to be powered by Apple's next-generation M6 Pro and M6 Max chips. Notably, these chips are expected to be manufactured with TSMC's advanced 2nm process, which should result in greater year-over-year performance and efficiency gains than usual. The current M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are built with TSMC's third-generation 3nm process. Thinner Design MacBook Ultra is expected to have a thinner design compared to the MacBook Pro. The move from LCD with mini-LED backlighting to OLED would contribute to the thinner design, and there could be other changes that help to slim things down. As of now, there has been no indication that Apple plans to once again remove ports like HDMI, MagSafe, or the SD card slot in order to achieve this thinner design, but we shall see. That was a very unpopular decision the last time it happened. Cellular Macs can already connect to a cellular network via the Personal Hotspot feature on a nearby iPhone or iPad, but Apple has reportedly at least considered built-in cellular connectivity for future Macs. If these plans moved forward, the MacBook Ultra would likely be equipped with Apple's C1X or future C2 modem for 5G and LTE.Related Roundup: MacBook ProTag: MacBook UltraBuyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Pro This article, "Apple to Launch 'MacBook Ultra' With These Six New Features" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

On this week's special episode of The MacRumors Show, we discuss Apple's bombshell announcement that Tim Cook will step down as CEO on September 1, 2026, with hardware engineering chief John Ternus set to succeed him. Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel for more videos Cook will transition to executive chairman, where he will "assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world." The transition was approved by the board and is the result of a "thoughtful, long-term succession planning process." Current board chair Arthur Levinson will become the lead independent director. Cook has served as Apple's CEO since 2011. Ternus, who has spent nearly his entire career at Apple, will join the board ahead of assuming the CEO role. He is a product person in the mold of Steve Jobs rather than a supply chain operator like Cook, and according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, he is expected to take a more centralized approach to decision-making. "If you go to Tim with 'A' or 'B,' he won't pick," one person who has worked closely with both executives told Gurman. "Ternus will make decisions." Ternus will take over in time to oversee the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro models and Apple's first foldable iPhone, both expected in September. Alongside the leadership transition, Apple said that Johny Srouji, currently SVP of Hardware Technologies, will take on an expanded role as Chief Hardware Officer, leading Hardware Engineering and reporting to Ternus. Srouji's remit will cover everything from product design to system engineering to reliability and durability testing. Cook described Srouji as having "played a singular role in driving Apple's silicon strategy" and said his influence has been felt "not just inside the company, but across the industry." In a statement, Cook said leading Apple has been the "greatest privilege" of his life and described Ternus as "a visionary whose contributions to Apple over 25 years are already too numerous to count." Ternus said he is "filled with optimism" about what Apple can achieve in the years to come, adding that he promises to "lead with the values and vision that have come to define this special place for half a century." The MacRumors Show has its own YouTube channel, so make sure you're subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips. Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel! You can also listen to ‌The MacRumors Show‌ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or other podcast apps. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your player. If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up to hear our discussion about Apple's upcoming overhaul of the iPad mini and iPad Air, looking at the future of the product lineup as a whole. Subscribe to ‌The MacRumors Show‌ for new episodes every week, where we discuss some of the topical news breaking here on MacRumors, often joined by interesting guests such as Kayci Lacob, Kevin Nether, John Gruber, Mark Gurman, Jon Prosser, Luke Miani, Matthew Cassinelli, Brian Tong, Quinn Nelson, Jared Nelson, Eli Hodapp, Mike Bell, Sara Dietschy, iJustine, Jon Rettinger, Andru Edwards, Arnold Kim, Ben Sullins, Marcus Kane, Christopher Lawley, Frank McShan, David Lewis, Tyler Stalman, Sam Kohl, Federico Viticci, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo, and Rene Ritchie. ‌The MacRumors Show‌ is on X @MacRumorsShow, so be sure to give us a follow to keep up with the podcast. You can also email us at [email protected] or head over to The MacRumors Show forum thread. Remember to rate and review the podcast, and let us know what subjects and guests you would like to see in the future.Tags: The MacRumors Show, Tim Cook This article, "The MacRumors Show: Tim Cook to Step Down as Apple CEO" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

It wasn't necessarily a surprise given circulating rumors, but the biggest news in the Apple world this week was the announcement that Tim Cook will be stepping down as CEO, with John Ternus taking over the reins as of September 1. Other recent news included updated details on color options for the iPhone 18 Pro, as well as fresh rumors about the standard iPhone 18 and timing for the launch of the highly anticipated touch screen-equipped MacBook Pro and updated Mac Studio, so read on below for all the details on these stories and more! Top Stories Apple CEO Tim Cook Stepping Down, John Ternus Taking Over Apple CEO Tim Cook is stepping down as chief executive officer, and hardware engineering chief John Ternus is set to take over, Apple announced this week. Cook will continue on as Apple CEO through the summer, with Ternus set to join Apple's Board of Directors and take over as CEO on September 1, 2026. Cook is going to transition to executive chairman, and he will "assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world." In an all-hands meeting for Apple employees following the announcement, Cook said that he remains healthy and that he plans to stay in the executive chairman role "for a long time." Apple's current chip chief Johny Srouji will also be taking on an expanded role as Chief Hardware Officer, adding oversight of the Hardware Engineering group that had reported to John Ternus to his existing responsibilities with Apple's Hardware Technologies group. iPhone 18 Pro's Four Rumored Colors Revealed, Including 'Dark Cherry' A source said to be familiar with Apple's supply chain recently revealed the color options Apple is planning for the iPhone 18 Pro and ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ Max. The information comes from Macworld, which says the signature new color for this year's Pro models will be Dark Cherry, a deep wine-like red. While other sources had previously reported on a "Dark Red" option, the hue is said to be considerably closer to wine than a brighter red. According to Macworld's source, Apple has been working on four color options for the ‌iPhone 18 Pro‌ and Pro Max, with the following Pantone codes said to be in use internally: Light Blue (Pantone 2121), resembling the current iPhone 17's Mist Blue Dark Cherry (Pantone 6076), the headline new color Dark Gray (Pantone 426C) Silver (Pantone 427C), similar to the current generation MacBook Pro With Touch Screen and New Mac Studio Likely 'Postponed' The global memory chip shortage may result in the next MacBook Pro and Mac Studio models launching later than expected, according to the latest rumor. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has repeatedly stated that 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with a touch screen are slated to launch in late 2026 to early 2027. In his Power On newsletter this week, though, he said to be prepared for the laptops to potentially arrive towards the end of that timeframe due to the chip shortage. In other words, early 2027 is now more likely than late 2026. Gurman previously expected a new Mac Studio to launch around the middle of 2026, which pointed towards an announcement around WWDC 2026 in June. However, in his newsletter, he wrote that sources within Apple believe that the next Mac Studio models will not ship until around October this year as a result of the shortage. Leaker: Apple Downgrading iPhone 18 to Cut Costs Apple is downgrading the planned specifications of the standard iPhone 18 to cut costs, a leaker claims. In a new post on Weibo, the user known as "Fixed Focus Digital" said that the ‌iPhone 18‌ features "certain manufacturing downgrades" that bring it more into line with the low-cost iPhone 18e model. The decision is said to be "a cost-cutting measure" that will "effectively bring it in line with the '18e' model." In follow-up posts, the leaker provided further detail indicating the iPhone 18 is likely to see downgrades to the display and main chip compared to Apple's original plans. iOS 27 Rumored to Drop Support for These iPhone Models iOS 27 will be compatible with the iPhone 12 series and newer, according to Instant Digital, a known Apple leaker on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. If this rumor is accurate, iOS 27 will drop support for the following iPhone models, although they will continue to receive iOS 26 security updates for at least a few years: iPhone 11 iPhone 11 Pro iPhone 11 Pro Max iPhone SE (2nd generation) macOS 27 Will Mark the End of an Era During its Platforms State of the Union segment at WWDC 2025, Apple revealed that macOS 26 Tahoe is the final major macOS version for Intel-based Macs. The upcoming macOS 27 release will be compatible with Apple silicon Macs only, meaning that you will need a Mac with an M-series chip or a MacBook Neo with an A18 Pro chip in order to install the software update. macOS 27 should be available in beta starting in June, and the update will likely be widely released in September. MacRumors Newsletter Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view. So if you want to have top stories like the above recap delivered to your email inbox each week, subscribe to our newsletter!Tag: Top Stories This article, "Top Stories: Tim Cook Stepping Down, iPhone 18 Pro Colors, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

This week's best deals include lowest-ever prices on Apple Watch Series 11, M5 MacBook Air, and AirTag 1. We're also tracking some last-minute Earth Day deals on Anker accessories below. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. M5 MacBook Air What's the deal? Take $150 off M5 MacBook Air Where can I get it? Amazon Where can I find the original deal? Right here $150 OFF13-inch M5 MacBook Air (16GB/1TB) for $1,149.00 $150 OFF15-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,149.00 Amazon has a few record low prices on the new M5 MacBook Air this week, with $150 off select models of the brand new notebook. Stock has begun dwindling on these notebooks and we're no longer tracking an all-time low price on the 512GB 13-inch M5 MacBook Air, but most other configurations have availability. Apple Watch Series 11 What's the deal? Take $100 off Apple Watch Series 11 Where can I get it? Amazon Where can I find the original deal? Right here $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (42mm GPS) for $299.00 $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (46mm GPS) for $329.00 Amazon this week has all-time low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11, with $100 discounts across numerous models of the smartwatch. This sale includes many aluminum models of the Series 11 on sale at record low prices. AirTag 1 What's the deal? Take $42 off first gen AirTag Where can I get it? Woot Where can I find the original deal? Right here $42 OFFAirTag 4-Pack (1st Gen) for $56.99 Woot this week introduced a great deal on Apple's first generation AirTag 4-Pack, and it's set to last only for a few more hours. You can get this accessory for $56.99, down from $99.00, which is a match of the all-time low price on this model. The AirTag 4-Pack is in new condition and comes with a 90-day Woot limited warranty. Anker What's the deal? Take $42 off first gen AirTag Where can I get it? Amazon and Anker Where can I find the original deal? Right here $29 OFFAnker Prime 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station for $119.99 We began tracking a few different Earth Day-related sales from Anker this week, including events on Amazon and Anker.com. This includes a wide array of charging accessories like the new Prime 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station for $119.99, down from $149.99. If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Best Apple Deals of the Week: Low Prices on Apple Watch, MacBook Air, AirTag 1, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's new 14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro with 24GB RAM and 1TB SSD has hit a new all-time low price today. It's available for $1,999.00 on Amazon, down from $2,199.00. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. This beats the previous deal we tracked on this model by about $50, and as of writing it's only available in Space Black. Amazon provides a free delivery estimate by around April 29, with earlier delivery for Prime members. $200 OFF14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB) for $1,999.00 You can also get $200 off every 16-inch MacBook Pro model right now on Amazon, with the 24GB RAM/1TB M5 Pro model hitting a new all-time low price of $2,499.00, down from $2,699.00. If you're on the hunt for more discounts, be sure to visit our Apple Deals roundup where we recap the best Apple-related bargains of the past week. Deals Newsletter Interested in hearing more about the best deals you can find in 2026? Sign up for our Deals Newsletter and we'll keep you updated so you don't miss the biggest deals of the season! Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, "Get the 2026 MacBook Pro for New Record Low $1,999 Price" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

OpenAI has announced the release of GPT-5.5, the latest upgrade to the company's family of models powering its ChatGPT and Codex apps. OpenAI describes GPT-5.5 as better at multi-step work, claiming it can plan, use tools, and verify its own output with less hand-holding. The model is said to offer gains in agentic coding, computer use, and early-stage scientific research. GPT-5.5 Thinking offers "faster help for harder problems," according to OpenAI, while GPT-5.5 Pro is being pitched as a research partner for tougher questions where accuracy matters more than speed. OpenAI argues that its latest model is more token-efficient, so Codex tasks should – in theory – finish with less overhead despite the bump. ChatGPT Plus, Pro, Business, and Enterprise subscribers get GPT-5.5 Thinking, while the more powerful GPT-5.5 Pro model is limited to ChatGPT Pro, Business, and Enterprise. In Codex, GPT-5.5 spans Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, Edu, and Go plans. API access is said to be coming "very soon."Tags: ChatGPT, OpenAI This article, "OpenAI Debuts GPT-5.5 Claiming Agentic Coding and Research Gains" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

For its 20th-anniversary iPhone, Apple is tapping Samsung to produce a custom micro-curved OLED display that is brighter and thinner than existing panels, according to new supply chain information out of China. Apple is reportedly considering a radical redesign for the 20th-anniversary iPhone that could feature a completely bezel-less display that curves around all four edges of the device. To that end, Apple is said to be seeking from Samsung an equal-depth quad-curved panel design that uses "micro-curves" to keep the curve very shallow, as opposed to the aggressively curved "waterfall" edges of some existing Samsung panels. Apple's preference for slightly rounded edges may ensure that the device feels softer in the hand and that swipes from the edge of the display feel more natural. It could also prevent distortion of on-screen content around the edges. The latest supply chain information comes from Weibo-based leaker Digital Chat Station, who also says that Apple wants a "pol-less" display from Samsung – in other words, a panel design that removes the polarizer layer that sits on top of most current OLED screens. That claim lines up with a September 2025 report out of Korea that said Apple will 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. COE displays remove the polarizing film from an OLED panel, applying the color filter directly onto the encapsulation layer of the display. The technique reduces the thickness of the overall display stack, and it lets more light through to improve brightness while reducing power draw. Reflections are harder to deal with when there's no polarizing film, but in its latest iPhones, Apple added a new anti-reflective coating that is expected to be improved for future versions of the iPhone. Apple is also said to be employing a crater-shaped light diffusion layer in the display to even out the brightness so that the screen looks uniformly lit across all areas. 2027 will mark the 20th-anniversary of the iPhone, and Apple reportedly wants to create a high-end all-glass model that doesn't have cutouts in the display. Display analyst Ross Young 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. The latest rumors suggest that Apple is still testing an under-display iPhone camera for 2027, so it remains a possibility.Tags: 20th-Anniversary iPhone, Digital Chat Station, OLED This article, "20th Anniversary iPhone to Feature Custom 'Micro-Curved' OLED Panel" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Following the latest update of Apple's Invites app, hosts can now manually edit the guest list to update guest responses and adjust the number of additional guests. This v1.8.0 update appears to have focused on delivering a more streamlined experience for managing and sharing events. Within Messages, a new Invites iMessage app allows users to quickly share an existing invite without needing to leave the conversation. Elsewhere, the dashboard has been expanded with an All Events view, bringing both upcoming and past events into a single, unified interface. Sharing options have also been improved for hosts, who can now generate and download an image of their invite card. Additionally, music integration has been enhanced through the Apple Music Shared Playlist feature, which now provides personalised playlist suggestions based on listening habits. Finally, hosts can now specify a time zone for their event, and the update also contains bug fixes and performance improvements. Apple Invites is available on the iPhone, and on the web at iCloud.com/invites. Guests can RSVP in the iPhone app, or on the web from any device.Tag: Apple Invites This article, "Apple Invites App for iPhone Updated – Here's What's New" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

UK post-hardcore heartbreak merchants Holding Absence are finally stepping into their main character era down under, announcing their first-ever Australian headline tour this August. Teaming up with California heavy-hitters Kingdom of Giants, the Cardiff trio will tear through five cities across the country, levelling up from past support slots (hi Thornhill, Void Of Vision, You Me At Six) to full-blown headliner status. It all kicks off Friday 14 August at Brisbane’s Princess Theatre before rolling through Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, wrapping up in Perth on Thursday 20 August. HOLDING ABSENCE – ‘Whisper of a Dream’ If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll know Holding Absence have spent the past decade quietly building a global cult following – hundreds of millions of streams, emotionally devastating live shows, and a fanbase repping that iconic moth tattoo like a badge of honour. Their latest single ‘Whisper Of A Dream’ signals the start of a new chapter post-The Noble Art Of Self-Destruction era, and this Aussie run is shaping up as our first real taste of what that evolution looks like in the flesh. Meanwhile, Kingdom of Giants are returning armed with fresh material from their Bleeding Star and Burning Chrome EPs, bringing their cinematic, synth-laced chaos back to local stages. Expect soaring melodies, crushing riffs, and vibes somewhere between cyberpunk fever dream and emotional breakdown in the pit. Suss the deets down below. HOLDING ABSENCE – AUSTRALIA 2026 TOUR DATES With Kingdom Of Giants Friday 14 August – Princess Theatre, Brisbane (Lic AA) Saturday 15 August – Liberty Hall, Sydney (Lic AA) Sunday 16 August – 170 Russell, Melbourne (18+) Wednesday 19 August – Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide (Lic AA) Thursday 20 August – Magnet House, Perth (18+) Tickets available Wednesday 29 April at 11am local time via Destroy All Lines. Further Reading Hellbound II Lineup: Parkway Drive, Thy Art Is Murder + MORE Death Cab For Cutie Announce 2026 Australian Tour (First Shows In 7 Years) The Amity Affliction Drop First Single With New Clean Vocalist, Jonny Reeves The post Holding Absence Announce First Ever Australian Headline Tour appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

Nu metal is so back it’s practically wearing Adidas again. Korn have surprise-dropped a brand new single, ‘Reward The Scars’, marking their first fresh material in four years – and yep, it rips. The track lands outta nowhere ahead of their upcoming OS live run, and doubles as a collab with the Diablo IV expansion Lords of Hatred, which drops April 28. Listen below. KoRn – ‘Reward the Scars’ Produced by longtime collaborator Nick Raskulinecz (the man behind The Serenity of Suffering), ‘Reward The Scars’ leans straight into Korn’s signature darkness – gritty, brooding, and built for both mosh pits and demon-slaying sessions. It’s their first release since 2022’s Requiem, which topped Billboard’s Hard Rock Albums chart, and arrives right as the band gear up for a stacked year of touring, including Sick New World and a bunch of international dates (sadly no Aussie ones on the cards at this point though – boo-urns). There’s also a lil intrigue in the mix… fans are already clocking the bass tone and asking the big question: is that OG bassist Fieldy back in the fold, or still Ra Díaz holding it down? Fieldy’s been on hiatus since 2021 and hasn’t been in contact with the band for years, so… jury’s out. Either way, the low end is thicc and doing the lord’s work. For Aussie fans, this drop hits extra nice – Korn were last down under in 2024 tearing up Good Things Festival, reminding everyone exactly why they’re still one of the heaviest legacy acts on the planet. New era? Maybe. Sneaky one-off? Also possible. Watch this space. Further Reading Korn’s ‘Freak On A Leash’ Is Going Viral Thanks To New TikTok Dance Korn Fan Ejected From Stadium Show For Masturbating Mid-Set Korn’s Jonathan Davis: “If We Made Records Trying To Make Everyone Happy They Would Suck” The post Korn Drop First New Song In 4 Years ‘Reward The Scars’ appeared first on Music Feeds. View the full article

There are a lot of folks waiting for a new version of the Apple TV because the set-top box hasn't been updated since 2022. There is an update coming this year, but people will need to wait a bit longer because Apple is holding the next ‌Apple TV‌ until the new version of Siri comes out this fall. Design ‌Apple TV‌ design updates don't happen often, and that's not changing in 2026. The next ‌Apple TV‌ is going to have the same squircle shape as the current model, and it'll continue to be made from a black plastic material. We're expecting the 2026 ‌Apple TV‌ to be indistinguishable from the existing ‌Apple TV‌ on the exterior, with no changes to size or design. New Chip The ‌Apple TV‌ 4K is going to get a new A-series chip, and that'll be the biggest upgrade. Rumors suggest Apple is planning to use the A17 Pro that was first introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro models. Compared to the A15 Bionic in the current ‌Apple TV‌, the A17 Pro is a solid update, and it's a good reason to hold off on buying the current model. The A17 Pro is built on a 3-nanometer process for faster speeds and better efficiency, and it has hardware-accelerated ray tracing for higher-quality graphics in games. The A17 Pro is the oldest chip Apple makes that supports Apple Intelligence, and it's also used in the iPad mini 7. Given that Apple has held the ‌Apple TV‌ update for so long, it's possible it'll get an even newer chip like the A18 or A19. A RAM update is possible too, especially if the ‌Apple TV‌ has any kind of ‌Apple Intelligence‌ support. Apple Intelligence and Siri The next ‌Apple TV‌ is ready to launch, but new ‌Siri‌ features are the holdup. Apple wants to release the ‌Apple TV‌ with the smarter version of ‌Siri‌ that's in the works, and it's not ready to go. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says the Apple TV is linked to "new artificial intelligence features" that Apple has postponed until iOS 27, which is coming in September 2026. Apple intended to launch the ‌Apple Intelligence‌ ‌Siri‌ features in spring 2026, but the company was still experiencing issues with ‌Siri‌. At this point, we're not going to see new ‌Siri‌ capabilities until iOS 27, which also means a delay for all the devices that Apple is holding. Along with the ‌Apple TV‌, the rumored home hub and a new version of the HomePod are waiting on ‌Siri‌. Updated ‌Siri‌ features may require more RAM and a faster chip, so if you want the smarter ‌Siri‌ on the ‌Apple TV‌, that's another reason to wait before making a purchase. Wi-Fi The ‌Apple TV‌ could get Apple's N1 networking chip with Wi-Fi 7 support. Wi-Fi 7 works with the 6GHz band offered by newer routers. 6GHz connectivity is faster and less congested, which you want for a device designed for streaming content. Bluetooth and Thread The ‌Apple TV‌ 4K could get Bluetooth 6 for connecting devices like controllers and earbuds. Apple's N1 chip also supports Thread, so the ‌Apple TV‌ will be able to continue to serve as a Thread border router and a Matter hub for smart home devices. Pricing There have been rumors of a price drop, so it's possible Apple has plans for a cheaper ‌Apple TV‌. Apple could release two models, one that's higher-end and one that has lower specs and a lower price tag, or it could keep the existing ‌Apple TV‌ around as a low-cost option. Launch Date Since the new version of ‌Siri‌ has been pushed to ‌iOS 27‌ and the ‌Apple TV‌ is tied to that update, we're likely not going to see the ‌Apple TV‌ refreshed until September 2026 at the earliest.Related Roundup: Apple TVBuyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)Related Forum: Apple TV and Home Theater This article, "Here's What's Coming in the 2026 Apple TV" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple has published a new ad to appeal to customers in the market for an iPhone and Apple Watch pairing, highlighting the insights it can offer for your health. Titled simply "Health with iPhone + Apple Watch," the half-minute ad focuses on a woman waiting in line at a cafe who begins receiving unsolicited health and fitness advice from other people in the queue, as well as local residents, drivers, and passersby – and even accompanying pets. An Apple Watch notification about her new cardio fitness trend cuts through the cacophony, and she subsequently looks into the Health app on iPhone to learn that her cardio fitness is above average. "Listen to your body. Not everybody," says the onscreen slogan, as she grabs her coffee and goes about her day. The YouTube blurb reads:With iPhone and Apple Watch, you get science-based insights about your health. You see data on things like your heart rate, cycle tracking, cardio fitness, and sleep quality. So you can be more aware of what your body is telling you.Apple Watch Cardio Fitness determines cardiorespiratory fitness as measured by VO2 max. VO2 max is the maximum amount of oxygen that the body is able to use during exercise, and it can be improved through physical activity. Apple introduced the feature in 2020. Cardio Fitness is a category in the Health app on iPhone, and fitness level is classified as high, above average, below average, or low relative to people in your same age group and of the same sex. Users can also track how their cardio fitness levels have changed over the past week, month, six months, or year, and if fitness levels fall into the low range, they can get a notification on Apple Watch that includes guidance on improving it.Related Roundup: Apple Watch 11Tag: Apple AdsBuyer's Guide: Apple Watch (Neutral) This article, "New Apple Ad Sells the iPhone and Apple Watch Health Pairing" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's entire entry-level product lineup now costs less than a single 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M5 Pro chip. The ten products that now define Apple's lowest-cost tier are as follows: iPhone 17e: $599 MacBook Neo: $599 iPad (11th generation): $349 Magic Keyboard Folio: $249 Apple Pencil (USB-C): $79 Apple Watch SE 3: $249 AirPods 4: $129 Apple TV 4K: $129 HomePod mini: $99 AirTag: $29 The total comes to $2,510, which is $189 less than the $2,699 starting price of the 16-inch ‌MacBook Pro‌ with the M5 Pro chip. AppleCare One, which can cover any three Apple devices of the buyer's choosing, costs an additional $19.99 per month. The MacBook Neo, announced on March 4, is the linchpin of the shift. At $599, it is Apple's most affordable laptop ever and the first Mac to contain an A-series chip, using the A18 Pro that debuted in the iPhone 16 Pro. After its March 11 launch, Apple CEO Tim Cook said Apple saw its "best launch week ever for first-time Mac customers." The iPhone 17e and MacBook Neo, both at $599, anchor the lineup at an identical price point that would have seemed implausible just two years ago, when the cheapest Mac laptop cost $999. What is striking about today's lineup is how capable most of Apple's entry-level products have become relative to their more expensive siblings. The iPhone 17e uses the same A19 chip and 48-megapixel main camera as the $799 iPhone 17, differing meaningfully only in its slightly smaller 60Hz display, single rear camera, and notch design. The ‌MacBook Neo‌'s A18 Pro chip posts a single-core score of 3,461, within 6% of the M5 MacBook Air, and is highly capable for everyday tasks. The Apple Watch SE 3 shares the same S10 chip as the $399 Series 11 and, with its last refresh, gained an always-on display, sleep apnea detection, body temperature sensing, and fast charging. The notable exception in the lineup is the entry-level iPad, which is the only current Apple device that does not support Apple Intelligence. It is also notable that three of the eleven products on the list are also due for imminent replacements. The 12th generation ‌iPad‌ with an A18 chip and Apple Intelligence support is said to be "ready to go" and "still coming this year." The next Apple TV and HomePod mini are expected to gain faster chips, along with Apple's N1 chip for Wi-Fi 7 and Thread support. All three devices have reportedly been ready for release since last year, primarily held up by the delayed arrival of a more capable version of Siri. Overall, Apple's entry-level lineup arguably never seems to have been stronger or more affordable.Related Roundup: MacBook ProBuyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Pro This article, "A Full Apple Ecosystem Now Costs Less Than a MacBook Pro" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Catching the KICS push: what happened, and the case for open, fast collaboration In the past few weeks we’ve worked through two supply chain compromises on Docker Hub with a similar shape: first Trivy, now Checkmarx KICS. In both cases, stolen publisher credentials were used to push malicious images through legitimate publishing flows. In both cases, Docker’s infrastructure was not breached. And in both cases, the software supply chain of everyone who pulled the compromised tags was briefly exposed. This is our account of what happened with KICS, what affected users should do, and what the pattern says about where defenders need to invest. What happened On April 22, 2026 at approximately 12:35 UTC, a threat actor authenticated to Docker Hub using valid Checkmarx publisher credentials and pushed malicious images to the checkmarx/kics repository. Five existing tags were overwritten to malicious digests (latest, v2.1.20, v2.1.20-debian, alpine, debian) and two new tags (v2.1.21, v2.1.21-debian) were created. The images were built from an attacker-controlled source repository, not from Checkmarx’s. The poisoned binary kept the legitimate scanning surface intact and added a quiet exfiltration path. Scan output was collected, encrypted, and sent to attacker-controlled infrastructure at audit.checkmarx[.]cx, with the User-Agent KICS-Telemetry/2.0. Because KICS scans Terraform, CloudFormation, Kubernetes and similar configuration files, its output routinely contains secrets, credentials, cloud resource names, and internal topology. Affected malicious digests (any one of these in your pull history should be treated as malicious): For alpine, v2.1.20, v2.1.21 -> Index manifest digest: sha256:2588a44890263a8185bd5d9fadb6bc9220b60245dbcbc4da35e1b62a6f8c230d Image digest (amd64): sha256:d186161ae8e33cd7702dd2a6c0337deb14e2b178542d232129c0da64b1af06e4 Image digest (arm64): sha256:415610a42c5b51347709e315f5efb6fffa588b6ebc1b95b24abf28088347791b For debian, v2.1.20-debian, v2.1.21-debian -> Index manifest digest: sha256:222e6bfed0f3bb1937bf5e719a2342871ccd683ff1c0cb967c8e31ea58beaf7b Image digest (amd64): sha256:a6871deb0480e1205c1daff10cedf4e60ad951605fd1a4efaca0a9c54d56d1cb Image digest (arm64): sha256:ff7b0f114f87c67402dfc2459bb3d8954dd88e537b0e459482c04cffa26c1f07 For latest -> Index manifest digest: sha256:a0d9366f6f0166dcbf92fcdc98e1a03d2e6210e8d7e8573f74d50849130651a0 Image digest (amd64): sha256:26e8e9c5e53c972997a278ca6e12708b8788b70575ca013fd30bfda34ab5f48f Image digest (arm64): sha256:7391b531a07fccbbeaf59a488e1376cfe5b27aef757430a36d6d3a087c610322 If your CI ran kics against any repository with credentials in scope during the exposure window, rotate those credentials now. Re-pull checkmarx/kics by digest, not tag, and pin your CI to the digest so a future overwrite cannot silently affect you again. Purge the malicious digests from local caches, CI runners, pull-through registries, and mirrors: a clean pull won’t remove what’s already been cached. Check egress logs for connections to audit.checkmarx[.]cx, or outbound traffic with the KICS-Telemetry/2.0 User-Agent, which are strong indicators that exfiltration occurred on your infrastructure. The affected digests are disabled, the repository has been restored to its last known-good state, and pulls of checkmarx/kics today return the legitimate March 3, 2026 image. The publisher account used to push the malicious images has been suspended, and we’ve notified the small number of users our telemetry shows pulled the compromised digests. Socket’s technical analysis of the issue is here. Their post also covers what appears to be a broader Checkmarx compromise, including recent VS Code extension releases, which is worth reading if your developers use those extensions. How we caught this breach Within about half an hour of the push, a new image on a repository we monitor triggered a review. A check against the upstream source found no matching release, and the provenance showed the image had been built from a different source repository created one day before the push. That was enough to quarantine the repository and start forensics with Socket and Checkmarx. The defense is in correlation, not any single signal. In this episode, we found a new tag without an upstream release, provenance from an unfamiliar source, and a timing pattern that did not appear to match normal publishing behavior. Since we happened to see these signals together, they bought us a narrow window in which to act. It has to be noted that layered defense shortens the window between push and takedown, it does not prevent the push. The bar for this kind of attack has collapsed The uncomfortable thing about this incident, and Trivy before it, is how little sophistication incidents such as these require these days. A stolen credential from an IDE extension compromise, a target chosen from a public profile, a push through the normal publishing flow, and the attacker is inside the software supply chain of every organization that pulls that tag. Our assumption is this attack did not require any zero-days, novel tradecraft, or nation-state level budgets. The ingredients are stolen credentials and time, and both are abundant right now. Every registry, every package manager, and every publisher of any consequence is in the firing line, including Docker. This isn’t a Checkmarx problem or a Hub problem or an npm problem. It’s the new baseline, and defenders who aren’t planning for it as the default case are already behind. There are two implications for our ecosystem. Credential hygiene at the publishing boundary matters more than it used to: fine-grained tokens scoped to a single registry, shorter credential lifetimes, clean separation between personal and publisher identities. And that no single layer will catch all of this. Publishing-time verification, provenance, signatures, registry-side monitoring, deep package inspection (the kind Socket does to catch malicious behavior in dependencies), runtime egress controls, and cross-registry signal correlation each have to do some of the work, because any of them alone will miss cases the others catch. A note on where this is structurally harder In the Docker Hardened Images catalog, images are built by Docker from source, with verified provenance and signed releases produced through a hardened build pipeline. The class of attack described above, where a valid publisher credential pushes a tag that diverges from its upstream source, is structurally much harder to execute against an image built this way. There is no external credential that can substitute its way in; the provenance and the signatures have to match, or the image doesn’t ship. The DHI catalog is expanding, and we’re investing in this layer precisely because of the scenario and reasons explored in this blog. No one catches this alone The reason this incident got caught quickly, the reason Socket was able to produce a technical analysis within hours, and the reason Checkmarx’s response could move in parallel with ours, is that all three teams shared signals and samples in real time. The Trivy response looked the same, as did the rapid notification to GitHub about the attacker-controlled source repository. This is the posture the ecosystem needs more of, not less. Supply chain attackers are routing across registries, IDE marketplaces, source hosts, and CI systems in hours. Defenders who don’t share signals across those same boundaries are operating from a point of disadvantage. Formal standards for cross-registry coordination are still emerging, and they will matter eventually. What’s kept the windows short so far has been teams working with a spirit of openness, willingly sharing what they’re discovering, in real time. Docker will keep investing in layered defenses on Hub, keep extending publishing-time verification to more of the catalog, and keep showing up to share signals, whether this is across a partner’s incident channel, a peer registry’s investigation, or the rooms where a more durable framework for coordination eventually takes shape. We want to thank the Socket research team for fast, independent analysis, and to Checkmarx for moving alongside us on a tight timeline for this one. Further reading Socket blog: https://socket.dev/blog/checkmarx-supply-chain-compromise Docker Hardened Images on Docker Hub: https://hub.docker.com/hardened-images/catalog View the full article