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Apple saw a 23% year-over-year increase in iPhone sales in China during the first nine weeks of 2026, significantly outperforming a broader market decline driven by weak demand and rising component costs, according to Counterpoint Research. China smartphone sales apparently fell by 4% year-over-year in the first nine weeks of 2026. Within this environment, Apple emerged as the fastest-growing major vendor, with iPhone sales rising 23% compared to the same period in 2025. Counterpoint attributed Apple's impressive performance partly to a combination of e-commerce discounts and the inclusion of the standard iPhone 17 in government subsidy programs aimed at stimulating consumer electronics purchases. Counterpoint noted that the rising cost of memory components has been passed on to vendors, forcing several Android brands to adjust pricing strategies. Chinese smartphone makers OPPO and vivo have announced notable price increases for some existing models, with those changes set to take effect this month. In contrast, Apple has not announced any comparable price increases and is unlikely to follow competitors in raising prices, instead absorbing some of the margin pressure from higher component costs to maintain pricing stability. The firm added that Apple's control over its supply chain leaves it better positioned than rivals to withstand rising memory costs. Rising memory prices are expected to persist throughout 2026. The research firm expects China's smartphone market to remain under pressure in the coming months, with potential improvement in June driven by the country's mid-year "618" shopping festival. Counterpoint's findings are based on its China Weekly Smartphone Sell-Out Tracker, which monitors retail sales across the market. Tags: China, Counterpoint This article, "Apple Bucks China's Smartphone Slump With 23% Sales Jump" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Introduction In the current landscape of platform engineering and site reliability, the sheer volume of data generated by modern applications has surpassed human capacity for manual analysis. This is where the AIOps Foundation Certification becomes a critical asset for any professional looking to bridge the gap between traditional operations and automated intelligence. This guide is designed for software engineers, SREs, and IT managers who recognize that the future of infrastructure lies in algorithmic decision-making. By choosing a structured learning path through AIOps School, professionals can move beyond the noise of standard monitoring tools and start building resilient, self-healing systems. This comprehensive breakdown will help you understand how this certification fits into your career and whether it is the right move for your professional growth. What is the AIOps Foundation Certification? The AIOps Foundation Certification is a formal recognition of an engineer’s ability to apply artificial intelligence and machine learning principles to IT operations. It represents a shift from reactive troubleshooting to proactive, data-driven system management. Rather than focusing purely on theoretical models, this certification emphasizes real-world applications in production environments. It addresses how to handle high-cardinality data, logs, and metrics using automated patterns. The goal is to align modern engineering workflows with enterprise-grade practices, ensuring that teams can maintain uptime even as their infrastructure scales to thousands of microservices. Who Should Pursue AIOps Foundation Certification? This certification is ideal for a wide range of technical professionals who are responsible for maintaining system health and performance. Site Reliability Engineers (SREs) and DevOps professionals will find it particularly useful as it provides the tools to automate repetitive tasks and reduce “alert fatigue.” Cloud architects and platform engineers can use these skills to build more intelligent infrastructure as code. Even for those in security and data engineering roles, understanding the operational side of AI is becoming a necessity. In markets like India and globally, there is a massive push for engineers who can manage complex distributed systems without needing to hire a massive army of manual operators. Why AIOps Foundation Certification is Valuable in the Current Era The demand for AIOps skills is driven by the fact that enterprise adoption of cloud-native technologies is accelerating. As companies move to multi-cloud and hybrid environments, the complexity grows exponentially. This certification ensures that a professional stays relevant regardless of which specific monitoring tool a company uses, because it teaches the underlying logic of data correlation and anomaly detection. It is a high-return investment in your career because it moves you away from “firefighting” and into a strategic role where you are designing intelligent systems. This longevity is what distinguishes a senior engineer from a junior one in the current job market. AIOps Foundation Certification Overview The program is delivered via the official AIOps Foundation Certification portal and is hosted on AIOps School. The certification approach is grounded in practical assessment, ensuring that candidates don’t just memorize definitions but understand how to apply concepts to live systems. It is owned and structured by industry leaders who have seen the evolution of operations from physical servers to serverless functions. The assessment typically involves demonstrating competency in data ingestion, pattern recognition, and automated remediation. This structure ensures that when an employer sees this certification on a resume, they know the candidate is ready to contribute to a production environment immediately. AIOps Foundation Certification Tracks & Levels The certification is structured to support long-term career progression, starting from the foundation and moving toward mastery. The foundation level focuses on core concepts, terminology, and the fundamental architecture of AIOps platforms. Once an engineer masters the basics, they can move into professional levels that involve deeper integration with DevOps and SRE practices. Advanced levels are available for those who want to specialize in the algorithmic side of operations or lead large-scale digital transformation projects. This tiered approach allows professionals to pace their learning and gain recognition at every stage of their technical journey. Complete AIOps Foundation Certification Table TrackLevelWho it’s forPrerequisitesSkills CoveredRecommended OrderOperations IntelligenceFoundationJunior Engineers & AdminsBasic Linux/Cloud knowledgeLog Analysis, Monitoring, Metrics1stAlgorithmic SREProfessionalSREs & DevOps Engineers2-3 years of Ops experienceAnomaly Detection, Event Correlation2ndAutomation LeadershipAdvancedArchitects & Managers5+ years of experienceStrategic AI implementation, ROI3rd Detailed Guide for Each AIOps Foundation Certification AIOps Foundation Certification – Foundation Level What it is This certification validates a professional’s understanding of the basic pillars of AIOps and how machine learning can be applied to standard IT operations. It serves as the entry point for anyone looking to modernize their operational skill set. Who should take it It is suitable for junior DevOps engineers, system administrators, and technical managers who need to understand the language and logic of automated operations. No deep data science background is required to start. Skills you’ll gain Understanding the difference between traditional monitoring and AIOps. Mastery of data ingestion and telemetry gathering. Basic knowledge of event noise reduction and correlation techniques. Familiarity with the AIOps lifecycle in a production environment. Real-world projects you should be able to do Setting up a basic centralized logging system that uses pattern recognition. Configuring automated alerts based on dynamic thresholds instead of static limits. Building a dashboard that correlates application performance with infrastructure health. Preparation plan 7-14 days: Review core terminology and the basic architecture of AIOps platforms provided in the study materials. 30 days: Engage with hands-on labs focused on log aggregation and basic metric visualization. 60 days: Complete a full practice project that involves reducing alert noise in a simulated environment. Common mistakes Focusing too much on the math of machine learning rather than the operational outcomes. Neglecting the importance of high-quality data ingestion before applying AI models. Over-complicating the initial automation steps before understanding the manual process. Best next certification after this Same-track option: AIOps Professional Certification. Cross-track option: SRE Professional Certification. Leadership option: Engineering Management for Automated Systems. Choose Your Learning Path DevOps Path The DevOps path focuses on integrating AI into the CI/CD pipeline to improve software delivery velocity and reliability. Engineers on this path learn how to use automated testing and deployment data to predict potential failures before they reach production. The goal is to create a seamless loop where operational insights inform development teams in real-time. This path is perfect for those who want to be at the intersection of code and infrastructure. DevSecOps Path In this track, the focus is on applying AIOps to security operations, often referred to as AI-driven security. Professionals learn how to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate a security breach before traditional signature-based tools catch it. It involves automating the response to common threats and ensuring that security checks are built into the automated delivery process. This is a critical path for engineers in highly regulated industries. SRE Path The Site Reliability Engineering path is arguably the most natural fit for AIOps. Here, the focus is on maintaining Service Level Objectives (SLOs) through automated error budget tracking and incident response. Engineers learn how to build “self-healing” systems that can automatically scale or restart services based on predictive analytics. This path prioritizes system availability and the reduction of manual toil through intelligent automation. AIOps Path This is the specialized track for those who want to become domain experts in algorithmic operations. It focuses deeply on the selection of models, the tuning of anomaly detection algorithms, and the integration of diverse data sources. Professionals on this path often act as internal consultants for other engineering teams, helping them implement AI-driven strategies. It is a deep dive into the technical mechanics of the AIOps platform itself. MLOps Path The MLOps path is for those who are responsible for the lifecycle of machine learning models themselves. It involves taking AIOps principles and applying them to the deployment, monitoring, and retraining of ML models in production. This path bridges the gap between data scientists and operations engineers, ensuring that AI models remain accurate and performant over time. It is essential for organizations that rely on AI as a core product feature. DataOps Path DataOps focuses on the automated, policy-based management of data flows within an organization. Engineers learn how to use AIOps to monitor data pipelines, detect data drift, and ensure high data quality for downstream analytics. This path is vital for maintaining the “fuel” that powers AIOps and MLOps initiatives. It ensures that the data being used for operational decisions is reliable, timely, and secure. FinOps Path The FinOps path uses AIOps to manage and optimize cloud spending in real-time. Instead of waiting for a monthly bill, engineers use automated tools to detect cost anomalies and predict future spending patterns. It involves automating the rightsizing of resources and identifying wasted cloud spend across complex environments. This path is highly valued by management teams looking to maintain fiscal discipline in the cloud. Role → Recommended AIOps Foundation Certification Certifications RoleRecommended CertificationsDevOps EngineerAIOps Foundation, DevOps ProfessionalSREAIOps Foundation, SRE PractitionerPlatform EngineerAIOps Foundation, Cloud ArchitectureCloud EngineerAIOps Foundation, Multi-Cloud OpsSecurity EngineerAIOps Foundation, DevSecOps SpecialistData EngineerAIOps Foundation, DataOps SpecialistFinOps PractitionerAIOps Foundation, Cloud Cost ManagementEngineering ManagerAIOps Foundation, Digital Transformation Next Certifications to Take After AIOps Foundation Certification Same Track Progression Once the foundation is established, the next logical step is to dive into professional-level certifications that focus on implementation and architecture. This involves moving from understanding concepts to designing the actual systems that ingest and process operational data. Deep specialization in specific AIOps platforms or algorithmic tuning is the hallmark of this stage. It ensures you are seen as a subject matter expert who can own the entire operational strategy of an organization. Cross-Track Expansion Broadening your skills into related areas like SRE or DevSecOps can make you a more versatile engineer. For example, combining AIOps with SRE allows you to apply intelligent automation specifically to reliability goals. Alternatively, moving into the security space with AIOps knowledge makes you a formidable asset in modern threat detection. Skill broadening is about understanding how AI-driven operations interact with other parts of the technical ecosystem to create a more resilient whole. Leadership & Management Track For those looking to move into management, the focus shifts from “how to build” to “how to lead.” This involves understanding the ROI of AIOps, managing the cultural shift required for automation, and leading teams through digital transformations. Leadership tracks help you communicate the value of these technical investments to stakeholders and executives. It is the path for those who want to shape the technical direction of a company rather than working on individual configurations. Training & Certification Support Providers for AIOps Foundation Certification DevOpsSchool DevOpsSchool is a leading provider of technical training that focuses on the end-to-end software delivery lifecycle. They offer extensive resources for those looking to master DevOps and AIOps through hands-on labs and expert-led sessions. Their curriculum is designed to be practical, ensuring that students can apply what they learn to real-world production environments immediately. With a focus on industry standards and current toolsets, DevOpsSchool helps engineers stay ahead in a rapidly changing market. They have a strong reputation for producing high-quality content that caters to both beginners and seasoned professionals. Their approach is centered on career growth and technical excellence in the field of modern operations. Cotocus Cotocus provides specialized consulting and training services aimed at helping organizations and individuals adopt modern engineering practices. They focus heavily on cloud-native technologies and the automation of infrastructure. Their training programs are known for being intensive and deeply technical, providing learners with a thorough understanding of the underlying principles of AIOps and SRE. Cotocus emphasizes the importance of a culture of automation and provides the tools necessary to implement it effectively. By focusing on real-world scenarios and production-grade challenges, they prepare their students for the complexities of modern enterprise environments. Their expertise is highly sought after by companies undergoing digital transformation. Scmgalaxy Scmgalaxy is a massive community-driven platform that offers a wealth of information on software configuration management, DevOps, and AIOps. It serves as a hub for engineers to share knowledge, tutorials, and best practices. The platform provides structured learning paths and certifications that are well-respected in the industry. Scmgalaxy is particularly known for its extensive library of technical articles and guides that cover a wide range of tools and methodologies. They focus on the practical side of engineering, providing clear instructions on how to solve common operational problems. For many engineers, Scmgalaxy is the go-to resource for staying updated on the latest trends in the automation space. BestDevOps BestDevOps is dedicated to providing high-quality training and certification programs that help professionals master the art of automated operations. They offer a variety of courses that cover everything from basic DevOps principles to advanced AIOps strategies. Their training is delivered by experienced practitioners who bring years of industry knowledge to the classroom. BestDevOps focuses on providing a comprehensive learning experience that includes both theory and practical application. They are committed to helping their students achieve their career goals through rigorous training and industry-recognized certifications. Their programs are designed to be accessible yet challenging, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the job market. devsecopsschool.com DevSecOpsSchool is a specialized training provider that focuses on the integration of security into the DevOps and AIOps lifecycle. They recognize that security cannot be an afterthought and must be built into the automation process from the start. Their courses cover a range of topics, including automated security testing, threat modeling, and AI-driven security operations. DevSecOpsSchool provides the skills necessary to build secure and resilient systems in a cloud-native world. Their training is essential for engineers who want to specialize in the intersection of security and operations. By focusing on “security as code,” they help organizations protect their assets without slowing down the delivery process. sreschool.com SRESchool is dedicated to the discipline of Site Reliability Engineering, providing deep dives into how to maintain system availability and performance at scale. Their curriculum is heavily influenced by the practices developed at major technology companies and focuses on the reduction of manual toil through automation. They offer specialized training in AIOps as a core component of modern SRE work. SRESchool emphasizes the use of service level objectives and error budgets to drive operational decisions. Their courses are designed for engineers who want to master the art of building and maintaining reliable systems in complex, distributed environments. They provide a clear path from traditional administration to advanced SRE roles. aiopsschool.com AIOpsSchool is the primary destination for professionals looking to specialize in artificial intelligence for IT operations. They offer a focused curriculum that covers the entire spectrum of AIOps, from data collection to automated remediation. Their training is designed to be highly practical, with a strong emphasis on real-world use cases and hands-on experience. AIOpsSchool helps engineers understand how to leverage machine learning to solve complex operational challenges. They are a key player in defining the standards and best practices for the AIOps industry. Their certifications are a mark of expertise for anyone looking to lead in the field of automated intelligence and proactive system management. dataopsschool.com DataOpsSchool focuses on the critical intersection of data engineering and operations. They provide training on how to build and manage automated data pipelines that are reliable, scalable, and secure. Their curriculum includes the use of AIOps to monitor and optimize data flows, ensuring high data quality for business intelligence and machine learning. DataOpsSchool emphasizes the importance of collaboration between data scientists, engineers, and operations teams. Their courses are essential for anyone responsible for the data infrastructure that powers modern enterprises. By focusing on “data as a product,” they help organizations treat their data with the same rigors as their software code. finopsschool.com FinOpsSchool is the leading provider of training for the emerging field of cloud financial management. They teach engineers and finance professionals how to work together to optimize cloud spending using AIOps and automated tools. Their curriculum covers the principles of visibility, optimization, and operation in the cloud. FinOpsSchool provides the skills needed to track cloud costs in real-time and make data-driven decisions about resource allocation. Their training is vital for organizations looking to maximize the value of their cloud investments while maintaining control over their budget. By focusing on cultural change and technical automation, they help companies build sustainable cloud financial practices. Frequently Asked Questions (General) How difficult is the AIOps Foundation Certification? The foundation level is designed to be accessible to anyone with a basic understanding of IT operations. It focuses on concepts rather than complex mathematics, making it manageable for most engineers. How much time does it take to prepare for the exam? Most professionals find that 30 to 60 days of consistent study is sufficient. This includes reviewing theoretical materials and engaging in hands-on practice. Are there any prerequisites for the foundation level? There are no formal prerequisites, but a basic understanding of Linux, cloud computing, and monitoring concepts is highly recommended to get the most out of the course. What is the ROI of getting an AIOps certification? The return on investment is high, as it positions you for senior roles in SRE and DevOps. It can lead to significant salary increases and better job security in a tech-driven market. Is this certification recognized globally? Yes, AIOps certifications from recognized providers like AIOps School are valued by major enterprises and tech companies across the globe, including in India. Do I need to be a data scientist to learn AIOps? No, you do not need a data science background. AIOps is about using AI tools to improve operations, not necessarily building the underlying AI models from scratch. How does AIOps differ from standard DevOps? DevOps is a cultural and procedural shift for faster delivery, while AIOps is a technical shift that uses AI to handle the operational complexity that DevOps can create. Should I take SRE or AIOps certification first? If you are already in an operations role, starting with AIOps Foundation provides a modern lens through which to view SRE practices, though both are complementary. How often do I need to renew the certification? Most certifications are valid for two to three years. Given the speed of change in the field, staying updated with newer levels is encouraged. Does this certification help in moving to a management role? Yes, it demonstrates that you understand the strategic value of automation, which is a key requirement for modern engineering leadership. Can I prepare for this certification while working full-time? Yes, the learning paths are designed to be self-paced, allowing working professionals to study during their off-hours. Is there a practical component to the exam? Most modern certifications include scenario-based questions or hands-on labs to ensure you can apply the knowledge in a production-like setting. FAQs on AIOps Foundation Certification What specific tools are covered in the AIOps Foundation Certification? While it focuses on principles, you will learn the logic behind tools used for log aggregation, metric collection, and event correlation found in the modern ecosystem. How does this certification address alert fatigue? It teaches you how to use machine learning algorithms to filter out noise and group related events into single actionable incidents, reducing the burden on engineers. Does the course cover the use of AI in root cause analysis? Yes, a core part of the foundation is understanding how AI can trace dependencies across a distributed system to identify the primary cause of a failure. Will I learn about predictive scaling in this program? Predictive scaling is covered as a key outcome of AIOps, teaching you how to anticipate traffic spikes and adjust resources before performance is affected. How is data quality addressed in the AIOps lifecycle? The certification emphasizes that AIOps is only as good as the data it receives, covering the basics of data normalization and deduplication. What is the role of human-in-the-loop in AIOps? The foundation level teaches that AI is meant to augment, not replace, human decision-making, particularly in complex or high-risk remediation scenarios. Does the certification cover ethical considerations of AI in ops? Yes, it touches upon the importance of transparency and explainability in automated decisions to ensure that engineers can trust the AI’s output. Is cloud-native architecture a major focus of the certification? Absolutely, as AIOps is most valuable in the complex, dynamic environments typical of Kubernetes and microservices architectures. Final Thoughts: Is AIOps Foundation Certification Worth It? From a mentoring perspective, the answer is a definitive yes. We have reached a point in the industry where manual operations simply cannot scale with the speed of business. If you continue to rely on static thresholds and manual log diving, you will eventually become a bottleneck for your organization. The AIOps Foundation Certification isn’t just a badge on your resume; it is a fundamental shift in how you think about system reliability and your own role as an engineer. It moves you from being a “operator” to being an “architect of intelligence.” If you want to remain relevant and move into high-impact roles, mastering the intersection of AI and operations is no longer optional—it is a requirement. Start with the foundation, get your hands dirty with the data, and build the future of automated engineering. View the full article

1) What Docker is Docker is a platform for building, packaging, shipping, and running applications inside containers. Docker uses a client-server model: the docker CLI is the client, dockerd is the daemon, and the daemon manages images, containers, networks, and volumes. Under the hood, Docker Engine uses containerd for container lifecycle management, and containerd typically uses runc to actually create and run containers. (Docker Documentation) A clean mental model is this: User → Docker Client (docker) → Docker Daemon (dockerd) → containerd → runc → Linux Kernel That model is much closer to how Docker works today than “Docker Server” as a generic term. Docker Desktop on macOS and Windows still gives you Docker commands, but Linux containers run inside a Linux VM behind the scenes. (Docker Documentation) 2) Docker on Linux vs Mac On a Linux server, Docker Engine normally stores its data under /var/lib/docker. That includes images, containers, volumes, networks, and related metadata. (Docker Documentation) On macOS, Docker Desktop runs Linux containers inside a Linux VM, and the images/containers are stored in Docker Desktop’s disk image rather than directly in /var/lib/docker on the Mac host. That is why users often cannot find the same storage paths on Mac that they see on Linux. (Docker Documentation) There is another important update for Linux users: on fresh Docker Engine 29+ installations, the containerd image store is the default backend. If a host was upgraded from an older version, it may still use the legacy storage path behavior until the containerd image store is enabled. This explains why image files and overlay directories do not always appear exactly where older tutorials expect them. (Docker Documentation) 3) Filesystem concepts: what belongs in an image and what does not Your notes mention boot filesystem and kernel, which is a useful teaching angle, but one detail must be corrected: A Docker image does not contain the Linux kernel. Containers share the host kernel. The image provides the userspace filesystem and application content. (Docker Documentation) A simpler way to explain filesystem layers is this: Kernel = provided by the host OS Image = read-only layers containing userspace packages, libraries, configs, and app files Container = image + one writable layer on top So instead of saying “OS inside container = kernel + root fs + user fs + app fs,” the modern and accurate explanation is: Container runtime view = host kernel + image layers + writable container layer. (Docker Documentation) 4) What is a Docker image? A Docker image is a packaged, read-only template used to create containers. Images are made of layers, and each layer represents filesystem changes such as adding packages, copying files, or changing configuration. This layered design improves reuse, caching, and storage efficiency. (Docker Documentation) Examples of base images include: ubuntu debian alpine fedora Examples of application images built on top of base images include: httpd mysql nginx jenkins/jenkins In practice, an image is best understood as “a filesystem snapshot plus metadata and startup instructions.” (Docker Documentation) 5) What is a container? A container is a running instance of an image. When Docker starts a container, it takes the read-only image layers and adds a writable container layer on top. All runtime changes made inside that container are written into that writable layer unless you use volumes or bind mounts. (Docker Documentation) That writable layer is ephemeral. If the container is deleted, the data in that writable layer is lost unless it was stored in a volume or external mount. This is why databases and Jenkins data should use volumes instead of depending on the container filesystem. (Docker Documentation) 6) Installing Docker on Ubuntu Your command history is very close to the right process. The current official recommendation is to install Docker Engine from Docker’s APT repository, not from random distro packages, and the standard package set now includes docker-buildx-plugin and docker-compose-plugin. (Docker Documentation) Use this updated install flow on Ubuntu: sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install -y ca-certificates curl sudo install -m 0755 -d /etc/apt/keyrings sudo curl -fsSL https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu/gpg -o /etc/apt/keyrings/docker.asc sudo chmod a+r /etc/apt/keyrings/docker.asc echo \ "deb [arch=$(dpkg --print-architecture) signed-by=/etc/apt/keyrings/docker.asc] \ https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu \ $(. /etc/os-release && echo "${UBUNTU_CODENAME:-$VERSION_CODENAME}") stable" | \ sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/docker.list > /dev/null sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install -y docker-ce docker-ce-cli containerd.io docker-buildx-plugin docker-compose-plugin sudo systemctl enable --now docker docker version docker info If you want to run Docker without sudo, Docker’s post-installation guidance recommends adding your user to the docker group. (Docker Documentation) 7) First image and first container To pull an image: docker pull ubuntu docker pull httpd docker images To run a container from an image: docker run -d --name web1 httpd docker ps docker inspect web1 This is the key concept: Image exists first Container is created from the image One image can create many containers So the answer to “From image, how do we get containers?” is: Docker starts a container by using the image as the read-only template and adding a writable layer for that container instance. (Docker Documentation) 8) How to create an image There are two common ways to create an image. Method 1: Create from an existing container using docker commit This is good for demos and quick experiments. Example flow: docker run -itd --name motox ubuntu docker exec -it motox /bin/bash # inside container: apt update && apt install -y git apache2 exit docker commit -a "Rajesh" -m "Ubuntu with git and apache" motox motoxv2 docker images docker history motoxv2 docker commit captures the container’s filesystem changes into a new image. However, it is not the preferred long-term way to build production images, because it is less reproducible and harder to version-control. Also, commits do not include mounted volume data. (Docker Documentation) Method 2: Create from a Dockerfile This is the recommended and professional approach because it is repeatable, reviewable, and version-controlled. Docker’s docs define a Dockerfile as a text file containing instructions used to build an image automatically. (Docker Documentation) 9) Updated Dockerfile tutorial Your original Dockerfile idea is good, but it should be modernized. Older teaching example FROM ubuntu MAINTAINER Rajesh kumar RUN apt update RUN apt install git -y RUN apt install apache2 -y COPY index.html /tmp ENV JAVA_HOME /tmp/java What should be updated The MAINTAINER instruction is deprecated. Docker recommends labels instead. Also, combining package installation steps reduces layers and makes builds cleaner. (Docker Documentation) Better updated example FROM ubuntu:24.04 LABEL org.opencontainers.image.authors="Rajesh Kumar" RUN apt-get update && \ apt-get install -y --no-install-recommends apache2 git && \ rm -rf /var/lib/apt/lists/* COPY index.html /var/www/html/index.html ENV JAVA_HOME=/opt/java EXPOSE 80 CMD ["apache2ctl", "-D", "FOREGROUND"] Build it like this: docker build -t motoshare:1.0 . docker images docker history motoshare:1.0 This example is better because it is reproducible, uses a non-deprecated metadata pattern, and defines how the container should start. (Docker Documentation) 10) What is CMD and what is ENTRYPOINT? This is one of the most important interview and training topics. CMD CMD provides the default command or default arguments for the container. If the user supplies a command in docker run, that can replace CMD. (Docker Documentation) ENTRYPOINT ENTRYPOINT defines the main executable of the image. Docker’s best-practices guidance says ENTRYPOINT is best used to set the image’s main command, and CMD can then provide default flags or arguments. (Docker Documentation) Best teaching rule Use: ENTRYPOINT for the fixed main executable CMD for default parameters Example FROM alpine:3.21 ENTRYPOINT ["ping"] CMD ["localhost"] Behavior: docker run myping # runs: ping localhost docker run myping google.com # runs: ping google.com Also remember: if you define multiple CMD or ENTRYPOINT instructions in one stage, only the last one is used. (Docker Documentation) 11) How to share an image There are two main ways to share Docker images. Option 1: Push to a registry This is the normal team or production method. docker login docker tag motoshare:1.0 yourdockerhubuser/motoshare:1.0 docker push yourdockerhubuser/motoshare:1.0 Docker’s build-and-publish documentation recommends building, tagging, and publishing images to Docker Hub or another registry. Tags help identify versions. (Docker Documentation) Option 2: Save to a tar file This is useful for offline transfer. docker save -o motoshare.tar motoshare:1.0 docker load -i motoshare.tar docker image save exports image data into a tar archive, and docker image load restores images and tags from that archive. (Docker Documentation) 12) Where image files are stored This part connects directly to your command history. On Linux, Docker daemon data is usually under /var/lib/docker. But depending on your Docker version and storage backend, you may not see the exact old-style overlay paths you expect. With newer setups, containerd’s image store may be in use, and snapshot data may be managed differently. (Docker Documentation) So if someone asks: “Where is the image path?” The modern answer is: On Linux, start with /var/lib/docker Check docker info to see the storage driver and data root On newer systems, image and snapshot handling may involve containerd storage backends On Mac, images are usually inside Docker Desktop’s Linux VM disk image, not plain host directories (Docker Documentation) 13) Jenkins example in Docker Since your notes mention Jenkins, the best practical teaching advice is: for Jenkins, prefer the official Jenkins Docker image instead of manually assembling Jenkins from raw Ubuntu unless your goal is specifically to teach image construction. Jenkins’ official docs include Docker-based installation guidance using the jenkins/jenkins image. (Jenkins) A simple example is: docker run -d \ --name jenkins \ -p 8080:8080 \ -p 50000:50000 \ -v jenkins_home:/var/jenkins_home \ jenkins/jenkins:lts-jdk17 This is a good example of why volumes matter: Jenkins data should live in a persistent volume, not only inside the container writable layer. (Jenkins) 14) Best-practice summary Use this as the “final takeaway” section in your tutorial: Docker images are layered, read-only templates. (Docker Documentation) Containers are running instances of images with a writable layer. (Docker Documentation) Containers do not bring their own kernel; they use the host kernel. (Docker Documentation) On Mac and Windows, Linux containers usually run inside a VM provided by Docker Desktop. (Docker Documentation) docker commit is okay for learning and debugging, but Dockerfiles are the preferred way to create production images. (Docker Documentation) Use ENTRYPOINT for the main executable and CMD for default arguments. (Docker Documentation) Share images through Docker Hub/private registries or with docker save and docker load. (Docker Documentation) Use volumes for persistent data such as Jenkins home, MySQL data, and application uploads. (Docker Documentation) 15) Suggested assignments for students Assignment 1 Pull the ubuntu image, inspect it, and explain why it is an image and not a running container. Assignment 2 Run two containers from the same httpd image and prove that one image can create multiple containers. Assignment 3 Create a custom image by: starting an Ubuntu container installing git and apache2 committing it as motoxv2 Then compare docker history ubuntu and docker history motoxv2. Assignment 4 Write a Dockerfile that: starts from Ubuntu installs apache2 copies index.html starts Apache in the foreground Assignment 5 Create one image using CMD only, and another using ENTRYPOINT + CMD, then observe how docker run arguments behave. Assignment 6 Share your image in two ways: push to Docker Hub export with docker save and restore with docker load 16) One-line short definition set for training slides You can use these directly in slides: Docker: A container platform for building, shipping, and running applications. Image: A read-only layered template used to create containers. Container: A running instance of an image with a writable layer. Dockerfile: A text file containing instructions to build an image. dockerd: The Docker daemon that manages Docker objects. containerd: Runtime component used by Docker for container lifecycle management. CMD: Default command or arguments for a container. ENTRYPOINT: Main executable of the container image. Volume: Persistent storage used by containers. View the full article

iOS 26.4 isn't the major update with new Siri features that we hoped for, but there are some useful quality of life improvements, and a little bit of fun with an AI playlist generator and new emoji characters. Playlist Playground - Apple Music has a Playlist Playground option that lets you generate playlists from text-based descriptions. You can include moods, feelings, activities, or make up something entirely nonsensical and let the AI figure out what you mean. Ambient Music widget - Apple added a widget for the built-in Ambient Music feature in iOS, so it's quicker to play background sounds. You can choose Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Wellbeing playlists curated by Apple. Emoji - There are eight new emoji characters including trombone, treasure chest, distorted face, hairy creature, fight cloud, orca, landslide, and ballet dancer. Reduce Bright Effects - If you dislike Liquid Glass, there's a Reduce Bright Effects setting that cuts down on bright flashes when tapping buttons. Reduce Motion also limits Liquid Glass animations more than it did previously. Keyboard Fix - iOS 26.4 fixes an iOS 26 keyboard bug that caused typos when typing quickly. Purchase Sharing - Adults in Family Sharing groups no longer have to use the same payment method, and Apple now lets everyone add their own credit or debit card. CarPlay AI apps - CarPlay users can use third-party chatbots with ‌CarPlay‌ starting in iOS 26.4. Companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google will need to update their apps with ‌CarPlay‌ support, but the framework is in iOS 26.4. Video Podcasts - The Podcasts app has native video episode support with HLS streaming, along with options to swap between audio and video and offline video downloads. Average Bedtime - The Sleep feature in the Health app now records average bedtime for the past two weeks to give you a better idea of how your bedtime impacts sleep. Stolen Device Protection - Stolen Device Protection is now on by default. It thwarts physical theft and access of your iPhone by requiring biometric authentication for things like viewing passwords and turning off Lost Mode on the iPhone. Some features like changing an Apple ID password have a one-hour security delay. There are other new additions in iOS 26.4, like offline song recognition in Control Center, nearby concert suggestions and full-page album artwork in ‌Apple Music‌, easier access to subtitle customization options in media apps, and Apple Creator Studio support for Freeform, with details available in our full iOS 26.4 notes article. Release Date The iOS 26.4 release candidate is available to developers and public beta testers, and it's likely the update will see an official launch on March 23 or March 24.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Related Forum: iOS 26 This article, "iOS 26.4: Top 10 New Features Coming to Your iPhone" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

The special-edition Nike Powerbeats Pro 2 are now available to order on Apple.com in the U.S., Canada, Australia, the U.K., and a handful of other countries. These headphones are the same as the regular Powerbeats Pro 2, except they have a two-tone design consisting of black and Nike's signature Volt neon green-yellow color. Aside from the Nike-focused design, these are the same ‌Powerbeats Pro‌ 2 that were introduced last year, with the signature Powerbeats wraparound earhooks for stability, Active Noise Cancelling with Transparency mode, built-in heart rate monitoring, and up to 45 hours of battery life when tapping into the charging case to recharge. Powerbeats Pro 2 are essentially a fitness-focused alternative to the AirPods Pro 3. Nike showed off the headphones in an ad starring NBA superstar LeBron James. In the U.S., pricing is set at $249.99, in line with the regular Powerbeats Pro 2. Apple is currently showing a March 24 delivery date.Tags: Beats, Nike, Powerbeats Pro This article, "Apple's Special-Edition Nike Powerbeats Pro 2 Now Available" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Just when you thought Apple was done with product announcements for a little while, this week saw one last drop with the AirPods Max 2 making their appearance. This week also saw fresh rumors about iOS 27 coming later this year while an iOS 26.4 release looks to be right around the corner, and Apple kicked off a series of events around the world in celebration of the company's upcoming 50th anniversary, so read on below for all the details on these stories and more! Top Stories Apple Announces AirPods Max 2 With H2 Chip and More In a surprise move, Apple this week unveiled AirPods Max 2, with key upgrades including the H2 chip, increased active noise cancellation, improved sound quality, and features such as Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation, and Live Translation. The new AirPods Max have the same overall design as the previous generation, with most of the new features coming from the upgrade to the H2 chip, but they do bring a nice set of audio improvements and a new Camera Remote function for the Digital Crown. If you're a current AirPods Max owner and are considering an upgrade, be sure to check out our buyer's guide comparing the two generations. AirPods Max 2 will be available to order starting Wednesday, March 25, with a launch to follow sometime in early April. iOS 27 Will Reportedly Be Like Mac OS X Snow Leopard In his Power On newsletter this week, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reiterated that iOS 27 will be similar to 2009's Mac OS X Snow Leopard, in the sense that one of Apple's biggest priorities is bug fixes for improved performance and stability. That isn't to say, however, that the update will be completely devoid of new features, as we have already heard about a number of them that are in the works beyond the significant revamp to Siri that has been repeatedly pushed back. Perhaps most notable for those who dislike the Liquid Glass redesign that arrived in iOS 26, Apple is said to be aiming to include a system-wide slider to allow users to adjust the Liquid Glass effect. Here Are Apple's Release Notes for iOS 26.4 Apple this week seeded the release candidate versions of upcoming iOS 26.4 and related updates to developers and public beta testers, representing the final versions that will be provided to the public if no additional bugs are found. Apple shared full release notes for iOS 26.4 as part of the seeding, revealing a few previously unknown changes including a fix for a keyboard accuracy bug and a change to App Store Family Sharing that will allow adults in a group to use different payment methods. iOS 26.4 also includes support for AirPods Max 2, so the update will definitely be released by the time those arrive in early April, but the iOS 26.4 public release could come as soon as next week. iPhone Fold: 5 Things We've Learned About Apple's Foldable It's been a big couple of weeks for foldable iPhone rumors. In case you missed any of them, we've recapped five recent rumors that we previously covered. It sounds like display production for the device may be about to get underway as Apple looks toward a launch later this year, potentially as late as December. In other foldable smartphone news, Samsung is discontinuing its Galaxy Z TriFold after just three months on the market. The innovative device unfolds twice to reveal a massive 10-inch inner display. Apple Kicks Off 50th Anniversary With Surprise Alicia Keys Concert in New York As part of its upcoming 50th anniversary celebration, Apple is hosting gatherings "around the world" throughout the month of March to celebrate human creativity and ingenuity. The series kicked off with a surprise concert by Alicia Keysat Apple's retail store overlooking the main concourse at New York City's iconic Grand Central Terminal, with MacRumors in attendance for the event. Tim Cook then traveled to China for a performance by Li Yuchun at the company's Taikoo Li store in Chengdu, with events in additional countries planned for the next few weeks. Apple CEO Tim Cook Responds to Retirement Rumors After a flurry rumors late last year going back and forth about whether his retirement as Apple CEO might be imminent, Tim Cook addressed the rumors in an interview with Good Morning America's Michael Strahan earlier this week. While Cook referred to the idea as "a rumor," he did not explicitly confirm or deny that he will be stepping down as CEO any time soon, though he did say "I can't imagine life without Apple." In a separate brief interview with Nikias Molina at the Alicia Keys concert, Cook reiterated that Apple still sees a long life ahead for the iPhone, even as rumors have suggested the company is looking to integrate its technology into other personal devices like augmented-reality glasses and an AI-powered pendant that will be able to gather information from the world around you. "There's so much left that we can do with the iPhone," said Cook. "I think it's going to continue to be the center of people's digital lives." 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: AirPods Max 2, iOS 27 and iPhone Fold Rumors, and More" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

On this week's episode of The MacRumors Show, we discuss Apple's surprise announcement of the AirPods Max 2 this week. Subscribe to The MacRumors Show YouTube channel for more videos The ‌AirPods Max 2‌ introduce a range of improvements primarily driven by the addition of Apple's H2 chip, which replaces the H1 chip used in previous models. This new chip underpins most of the upgrades, enabling more advanced computational audio and significantly enhancing the overall listening experience. One of the most notable improvements is Active Noise Cancellation, which Apple says is up to 1.5x more effective than before, making the headphones better suited to noisy environments such as travel. Transparency mode is also refined, with more natural-sounding ambient audio and improved clarity when hearing voices and surroundings. The H2 chip also facilitates a suite of new adaptive listening features. Adaptive Audio dynamically adjusts the balance between noise cancellation and environmental sound depending on your surroundings, while Conversation Awareness automatically lowers playback and enhances nearby voices when you begin speaking. Personalized Volume builds on this by learning your listening preferences over time and adjusting volume levels accordingly. In addition, Voice Isolation has been improved, helping to prioritize your voice during calls and reduce background noise more effectively. Audio quality is enhanced with a new high dynamic range amplifier and updated signal processing. These changes should result in more consistent bass, clearer midrange, more natural vocals, and improved separation of instruments. Spatial Audio has also been refined, offering more accurate sound placement and a more coherent soundstage. Wireless performance sees an upgrade with support for Bluetooth 5.3, which reduces latency compared to the previous generation. Alongside audio improvements, several new features have been added, including Live Translation powered by Apple Intelligence, the ability to use the Digital Crown as a camera remote for taking photos or controlling video recording, and expanded Siri interactions, including hands-free activation without "Hey ‌Siri‌" and gesture-based responses. Despite these updates, several core aspects remain unchanged. The design, materials, and overall form factor are identical to earlier versions, battery life remains at up to 20 hours with noise cancellation enabled, and the headphones continue to use the same Smart Case. Pricing is also unchanged at $549. ‌AirPods Max 2‌ will be available to order on Apple.com and in the Apple Store app starting Wednesday, March 25 in the U.S. and more than 30 other countries, and they launch on an unspecified day in early April. 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 concentrated week of announcements that saw the introduction of 10 new products. 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.Related Roundup: AirPods Max 2Tag: The MacRumors ShowBuyer's Guide: AirPods Max (Buy Now)Related Forum: AirPods This article, "The MacRumors Show: Surprise AirPods Max 2 Announcement" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Both the MacBook Air and entry-level MacBook Pro now feature the M5 chip, so how do the latest models compare? While the 13-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ starts at $1,099 and the 15-inch model at $1,299, moving to the 14-inch ‌MacBook Pro‌ requires spending at least $300 more. For some buyers, the extra cost is unnecessary; for others, the Pro's ability to sustain performance, along with its more advanced display and expanded I/O, meaningfully change the experience in ways the Air cannot match even with higher configurations. With the introduction of the MacBook Neo as a new entry-level option, the Mac lineup now spans three distinct tiers. As a result, the ‌MacBook Air‌ no longer represents the default choice for most buyers, but instead occupies a middle position between affordability and performance. If you've already ruled out the ‌MacBook Neo‌, this guide helps to answer the question of how to decide which of Apple's other two popular laptops is best for you. The key differences are as follows: ‌MacBook Air‌ ‌MacBook Pro‌ 13.6- or 15.3-inch display 14.2-inch display Slimmer borders around the display LCD Liquid Retina display Mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display 60Hz refresh rate ProMotion for refresh rates up to 120Hz Up to 500 nits brightness Up to 1,000 nits brightness and 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness Nano-texture display option Passive cooling Active cooling Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports Three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports HDMI 2.1 port with support for multichannel audio output SDXC card slot 13-Inch: Four-speaker sound system 15-Inch: Six-speaker sound system with force-canceling woofers High-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers Three-mic array with directional beamforming Studio-quality three-mic array with high signal-to-noise ratio and directional beamforming 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB of storage 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB storage 13-Inch: 53.8-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery 15-Inch: 66.5-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery 14-Inch: 72.4-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery 18-hour battery life 24-hour battery life 30W, 35W, or 70W USB-C Power Adapter 70W or 96W USB-C Power Adapter Silver, Sky Blue, Starlight, or Midnight color options Silver or Space Black color options 13-Inch: Starts at $1,099 15-Inch: Starts at $1,299 Starts at $1,599 Dimensions are also a key area of difference between the ‌MacBook Air‌ and ‌MacBook Pro‌. The ‌MacBook Pro‌ is noticeably thicker and heavier than both ‌MacBook Air‌ models: ‌MacBook Air‌ (13-Inch) ‌MacBook Air‌ (15-Inch) ‌MacBook Pro‌ (14-Inch) Height 0.44 inches (1.13 cm) 0.45 inch (1.15 cm) 0.61 inches (1.55 cm) Width 11.97 inches (30.41 cm) 13.40 inches (34.04 cm) 12.31 inches (31.26 cm) Depth 8.46 inches (21.5 cm) 9.35 inches (23.76 cm) 8.71 inches (22.12 cm) Weight 2.7 pounds (1.24 kg) 3.3 pounds (1.51 kg) 3.4 pounds (1.55 kg) Taken as a whole, the ‌MacBook Air‌ now occupies a more clearly defined middle position in Apple's laptop lineup. With the introduction of the ‌MacBook Neo‌ as a lower-cost entry point, the Air no longer represents the default choice for most buyers, but instead serves those who want a meaningful step up in performance, features, and long-term usability without moving into the ‌MacBook Pro‌ tier. The ‌MacBook Air‌ offers excellent performance with the M5 chip, capable memory and storage options, a good all-round display, and key features like a backlit keyboard, 18 hours of battery life, and a 12MP Center Stage camera. For everyday tasks, performance remains effectively indistinguishable from more expensive models, but the Air is far less likely to feel constrained after several years of use compared to the ‌MacBook Neo‌. Its thinner chassis, lower weight, silent fanless design, and broader range of color options also remain important advantages. By contrast, the 14-inch ‌MacBook Pro‌ is differentiated less by baseline performance and more by its ability to sustain it, as well as by a collection of hardware features that materially change the experience. Active cooling allows the M5 chip to operate at higher levels for prolonged periods, avoiding the thermal limitations inherent to the Air's passive design. This becomes noticeable in extended workloads such as video editing, 3D rendering, compiling large codebases, or running intensive AI-driven tasks. If your workload regularly involves sustained performance, such as long video exports, large code builds, or intensive multitasking, the ‌MacBook Air‌'s fanless design may become a limiting factor. Alongside this, ‌MacBook Pro‌'s mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion offers substantially higher brightness, contrast, and motion fluidity, while the inclusion of HDMI, SDXC, and an additional Thunderbolt port expands its versatility in professional environments. It also delivers consistently better speakers, higher-quality microphones, and longer battery life. For users planning to keep their machine for several years, this sustained performance headroom and broader feature set can make the ‌MacBook Pro‌ a more resilient long-term investment. The most consequential trade-off emerges at the upper end of the ‌MacBook Air‌'s pricing. At $1,299, the 15-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ sits close enough to the 14-inch ‌MacBook Pro‌'s $1,599 starting price that the decision becomes less about affordability and more about priorities. For an additional $300, the Pro offers a significantly more advanced display, active cooling for sustained performance, longer battery life, additional I/O, and overall greater versatility. Once you are already considering spending over $1,000 on a laptop, these advantages become disproportionately impactful, particularly for users intending to keep their machine for several years. As a result, the ‌MacBook Air‌ is best understood as the balanced option within the lineup: Meaningfully more capable and longer-lasting than the ‌MacBook Neo‌, but somewhat constrained compared to the ‌MacBook Pro‌. The right choice depends less on basic specifications and more on where your needs sit across three distinct tiers, with basic computing at the low end, sustained performance and advanced features at the high end, and the ‌MacBook Air‌ positioned squarely between them.Related Roundups: MacBook Pro, MacBook AirBuyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now), MacBook Air (Buy Now)Related Forums: MacBook Pro, MacBook Air This article, "M5 MacBook Air vs. M5 MacBook Pro Buyer's Guide" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

While the MacBook Neo is not "fast-charge capable," according to Apple's tech specs, the laptop can still charge faster with certain Apple chargers. Apple includes its 20W USB-C Power Adapter with the MacBook Neo (except in the UK and the EU, where the laptop does not ship with a charger at all), but a new charging test has revealed that Apple's 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter is a better choice if you want the fastest charging speeds at the lowest additional cost from Apple. In the video below, ChargerLAB shows that the MacBook Neo reaches a peak charging speed of 18W with the included 20W charger, but this rises to 30W with Apple's 35W adapter, which is available in two sizes for $59 on Apple's online store. ChargerLAB did not show exactly how much time you can save by using the 35W charger over the 20W charger, but it is probably up to 20-30 minutes for a full charge. Of course, a variety of 30W-and-higher chargers sold by Apple and other companies can charge the MacBook Neo at peak speeds of 28W to 30W, so look beyond Apple if you want to save money. If you stick with Apple, just know this: its 35W adapter is faster than the included 20W adapter, but its expensive 96W and 140W chargers do not charge the MacBook Neo any faster than the 35W adapter despite costing more. MacBook Neo launched last Wednesday, and Apple's CEO Tim Cook today revealed that the Mac just had its best launch week ever with first-time buyers.Related Roundup: MacBook NeoTag: ChargerLabBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Neo This article, "MacBook Neo Charging Test: Here's Which Apple Charger is the Fastest" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

OpenAI has a Mac "superapp" in development that unifies its ChatGPT app, Codex coding platform, and Atlas browser, reports The Wall Street Journal ($). The idea behind the all-in-one app is to simplify the user experience, following the launch of several standalone products, some of which haven't resonated with OpenAI's customers. The company is also trying to bounce back after the recent successes of its main rival, Anthropic. OpenAI executives are said to be looking at areas it can deprioritize while it focuses on creating agentic AI capabilities within the new superapp that can work autonomously on a user's computer to carry out various tasks like writing code and analyzing data. In an all-hands meeting last week, OpenAI's chief of applications Fidji Simo reportedly told employees they couldn't afford to be distracted by "side quests" given Anthropic's rapid success winning over enterprise and coding customers. From the report: An OpenAI spokeswoman said the new "superapp" will enable teams inside OpenAI to work more closely together, and help the research division focus its efforts around improving one central product. Over the coming months, the company expects to add new "agentic" capabilities within its Codex app so it can help with productivity-related tasks beyond coding before merging ChatGPT and the Atlas browser into the superapp as well. OpenAI unveiled a series of major initiatives last year, like its Sora video app and the acquisition of Jony Ive's AI hardware venture. Since then, however, Anthropic has gained strong momentum with the success of its Code Claude and Cowork offerings. The WSJ report gave no timeline for the launch of OpenAI's so-called superapp, but it said the company's mobile ChatGPT app will remain unchanged.Tags: ChatGPT, OpenAI This article, "OpenAI 'Superapp' to Merge ChatGPT, Codex, and Atlas Browser" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple and the Sydney Opera House in Australia recently announced a collaboration, and it turns out this will tie into Apple's 50th-anniversary celebrations. On his Instagram page earlier this week, Australian composer Bailey Pickles said Apple asked him to compose and perform music for its upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration at the Opera House, where Apple will soon be illuminating artwork. From March 25 to March 27, the Opera House's eastern sails will be illuminated with artwork created in the Procreate app on the iPad by a group of 10 emerging Australian artists. Through free Today at Apple sessions earlier this month, the public also had the opportunity to create and submit artwork for potential illumination. Apple said selected artworks from both commissioned artists and public submissions will be curated and projected on to the Opera House's eastern sails on March 25 at 8:30 p.m. local time, and on March 26 and March 27 at 8 p.m. local time. Pickles did not say exactly when he will be performing at the world-famous venue, but it is clear that the 50th-anniversary celebration will involve a mix of artwork and music. It is unclear if Apple's CEO Tim Cook or any other company executives will attend this celebration, but it is worth noting that Cook is currently in China, so he is a lot closer to Australia right now than he would ordinarily be. Perhaps he will make a surprise appearance at the Opera House at some point, but only time will tell. Apple has hosted 50th-anniversary celebrations in the United States, China, and South Korea so far, with more to follow in Canada, France, and Thailand, plus Australia. Our guess is that Apple will eventually hold a final celebration in California — the rainbow arches inside Apple Park would be the perfect spot for one last gathering. Apple turns 50 on April 1.Tags: Apple 50th Anniversary, Australia This article, "Apple's 50th Anniversary Celebrations Headed to Australia" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple collected nearly $900 million in App Store fees from generative AI apps in 2025, according to data from analysis firm AppMagic, covered by The Wall Street Journal ($). The overwhelming majority of Apple's AI app commission revenue came courtesy of ChatGPT downloads leading to subsequent subscriptions, which alone accounted for around 75 percent of the above total. Elon Musk's Grok app came a distant second, making up just 5 percent of the revenue. Apple is now said to be on course to earn $1 billion in generative app revenue this year. Given how behind the company is in the AI race, highlighted by the sluggish progress of its enhanced Siri rollout, it's a tidy sum indeed. Of course, the reason Apple benefits from the popularity of AI apps built by other companies is that the iPhone remains the smartphone market leader. Most AI apps still have to go through its App Store, where Apple takes a commission of up to 30 percent on subscriptions. As the report notes: "Its Siri chatbot is still weak by modern AI standards. What Apple does have that the other AI players don't is a dominant position making devices. However fancy OpenAI, Google, Anthropic and xAI make their chatbots, iPhones are still a primary way to deliver them to consumers."The revenue stands in contrast to Apple's relatively modest AI spending compared to rivals like Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, all of whom have poured tens of billions into AI infrastructure, with little to no profit yet to show for it. Meanwhile, Apple's capital expenditures have remained comparatively flat, thanks to its prioritization of investment in on-device AI over large data centers filled with GPU processors. The strategy won't enable a more capable Siri, but Apple appears to be happy to lean on Google to provide the necessary AI infrastructure for that. The two companies announced in January that Gemini will power a revamped version of Apple's virtual assistant, coming later this year. The financial terms of the partnership haven't been disclosed, but Bloomberg reported last year that the deal would be around $1 billion annually. That will give Apple access to a 1.2 trillion parameter model that dwarfs its in-house capabilities. Perhaps the deeper irony is that Google already pays Apple around $20 billion per year to remain the default search engine on iPhones, so now money is flowing in the other direction too, albeit at a drastically lower rate. Still, some investors see the App Store approach as a more viable long-term strategy. Charles Rinehart, chief investment officer of Johnson Asset Management, told WSJ that if Apple "can act as a toll road for providers of AI, then they'll probably end up looking good long-term."Tag: App Store This article, "Apple Made Nearly $900 Million From Generative AI Apps Last Year" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

In a social media post today, Apple CEO Tim Cook said the Mac just had its "best launch week ever for first-time Mac customers." This comes after the MacBook Neo launched on Wednesday, March 11. In the U.S., the laptop starts at just $599, or an even lower $499 for college students. Mac just had its best launch week ever for first-time Mac customers. We love seeing the enthusiasm! — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) March 20, 2026 Related Roundup: MacBook NeoTag: Tim CookBuyer's Guide: MacBook Neo (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook Neo This article, "Apple Reveals New Sales Achievement Following MacBook Neo Launch" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Introduction The Certified Site Reliability Professional program is a comprehensive validation framework designed for engineers who want to master the art of balancing system reliability with the speed of software delivery. This guide is written for software engineers, systems administrators, and technical leads who are navigating the complex transition from traditional operations to modern reliability engineering. In an era where downtime costs millions, understanding the principles of error budgets, toil reduction, and automated incident response is no longer optional. Navigating the landscape of technical certifications can be overwhelming, especially with the overlap between DevOps and SRE roles. This guide provides a clear roadmap to help you understand where the Certified Site Reliability Professional fits into your career trajectory. Whether you are based in India or working in a global distributed team, this program bridges the gap between theoretical cloud-native concepts and the gritty reality of managing production systems at scale. By reading this guide, professionals will gain clarity on which learning paths align with their current skills and future aspirations. We move beyond the buzzwords to examine the practical utility of this certification. Our goal is to empower you with the information needed to make a strategic decision about your professional development, ensuring that your investment in learning translates into tangible career growth and improved system stability for your organization through SREschool. What is the Certified Site Reliability Professional? The Certified Site Reliability Professional represents a standardized benchmark for excellence in the field of reliability engineering. It is not merely a test of theoretical knowledge but a validation of an engineer’s ability to apply SRE principles to real-world production environments. The program exists to formalize the diverse skill set required to keep modern, distributed systems running smoothly, moving away from “firefighting” toward proactive system design. The curriculum is built around the core pillars of SRE as defined by industry leaders, emphasizing measurable reliability. It focuses on how to define Service Level Objectives (SLOs) that actually matter to the business and how to implement Service Level Indicators (SLIs) that provide true visibility into system health. This certification ensures that practitioners understand how to manage the lifecycle of an application from code commit through to long-term production maintenance. In the modern enterprise, this certification acts as a signal that an engineer can handle the pressure of high-availability requirements. It aligns with cloud-native workflows, Kubernetes-driven orchestration, and the shift toward infrastructure as code. By completing this program, professionals demonstrate that they are capable of reducing operational load through automation and building resilient systems that can self-heal during failures. Who Should Pursue Certified Site Reliability Professional? Software engineers who find themselves spending more time managing infrastructure than writing features will find immense value in this program. It is particularly beneficial for DevOps practitioners who want to specialize specifically in the reliability and observability aspects of the delivery pipeline. As organizations move toward platform engineering models, having a certified SRE on the team becomes a critical requirement for maintaining service integrity. Cloud professionals and systems administrators who are transitioning from manual server management to automated cloud operations should consider this path. For these individuals, the certification provides the structured methodology needed to scale their impact across hundreds or thousands of microservices. It moves the needle from “running a server” to “architecting a resilient ecosystem,” which is a vital shift for career longevity. Engineering managers and technical leaders also benefit from this certification, even if they are not coding daily. Understanding the SRE framework allows managers to set realistic expectations for their teams and communicate effectively with stakeholders about system risks. In the Indian market and globally, there is a massive talent gap for professionals who understand the financial and operational implications of system reliability, making this an ideal choice for ambitious technical leads. Why Certified Site Reliability Professional is Valuable and Beyond The demand for reliability expertise is skyrocketing as every company becomes a software company. As systems grow in complexity due to microservices and multi-cloud strategies, the risk of catastrophic failure increases. The Certified Site Reliability Professional helps engineers stay relevant by focusing on evergreen principles like observability, automation, and risk management rather than just chasing the latest ephemeral tool or framework. Enterprise adoption of SRE practices is no longer limited to “Big Tech” firms; it is now a standard requirement in banking, healthcare, and retail. This certification provides a return on investment by making you a high-value asset in any organization that prioritizes uptime and customer experience. It provides the language and frameworks needed to advocate for reliability-focused projects, which are often the most technically challenging and rewarding tasks in an organization. Furthermore, the focus on toil reduction ensures that your career remains sustainable. By learning how to automate away repetitive tasks, you free yourself to work on high-impact engineering problems. This shift not only increases your professional satisfaction but also makes you indispensable to your employer. The certification proves that you are committed to the long-term health of both the systems you manage and the engineering culture you work within. Certified Site Reliability Professional Certification Overview The Certified Site Reliability Professional program is a multi-tiered educational journey delivered through Certified Site Reliability Professional and hosted on the SREschool.com platform. The program is designed to cater to different stages of professional maturity, from those just entering the field to seasoned veterans looking to lead SRE departments. Each level is built to challenge the candidate’s practical understanding of reliability concepts. Assessment in this program is rigorous and performance-based. Unlike traditional certifications that rely heavily on multiple-choice questions, this program emphasizes practical scenarios and case studies that reflect actual production incidents. This approach ensures that a certified professional can hit the ground running when faced with a real-world outage or a scaling bottleneck. The ownership of the program lies with industry practitioners who update the curriculum to reflect current enterprise practices. The structure is modular, allowing engineers to pick tracks that align with their specific day-to-day responsibilities. This flexibility is essential in a field as broad as SRE, where one engineer might focus on infrastructure automation while another focuses on deep-dive observability and distributed tracing. The program provides a clear path of progression, ensuring that as you grow in your career, there is a corresponding certification level to validate your advanced expertise. Certified Site Reliability Professional Certification Tracks & Levels The certification is divided into three primary levels: Foundation, Professional, and Advanced. The Foundation level introduces the core vocabulary and concepts, ensuring a baseline of understanding across the organization. The Professional level dives into implementation, focusing on the tools and techniques required to manage production systems. The Advanced level is for architects and leaders who design reliability strategies for entire organizations. Specialization tracks are a key feature of the program. While the core focuses on SRE, there are pathways that branch into DevOps, FinOps, and DevSecOps. These tracks allow professionals to cross-pollinate their reliability skills with other critical domains. For instance, a FinOps-focused SRE learns how to optimize for both reliability and cost, a skill set that is highly sought after in current economic climates. These levels align perfectly with career progression from Junior SRE to Senior SRE and eventually to Principal Engineer or SRE Manager. By following the structured tracks, an engineer can build a holistic portfolio of skills that covers every aspect of the modern technology stack. This tiered approach prevents “knowledge gaps” and ensures that the professional has a solid foundation before moving into complex, high-stakes reliability engineering tasks. Complete Certified Site Reliability Professional Certification Table TrackLevelWho it’s forPrerequisitesSkills CoveredRecommended OrderCore SREFoundationBeginners & ManagersBasic IT KnowledgeSLIs/SLOs, Toil, Incident Mgmt1Core SREProfessionalSREs & DevOps EngineersFoundation LevelAutomation, Observability, CI/CD2Core SREAdvancedLead Engineers & ArchitectsProfessional LevelError Budgets, Capacity Planning3FinOpsSpecialistCloud Financial AnalystsProfessional LevelCost Modeling, Unit Economics4 (Optional)DevSecOpsSpecialistSecurity EngineersProfessional LevelChaos Security, Policy as Code4 (Optional)PlatformExpertPlatform EngineersAdvanced LevelIDPs, Self-Service Infrastructure5 Detailed Guide for Each Certified Site Reliability Professional Certification Certified Site Reliability Professional – Foundation What it is This certification validates a candidate’s understanding of the fundamental principles of Site Reliability Engineering. It ensures the individual can communicate using SRE terminology and understands the cultural shift required for reliability. Who should take it This is suitable for junior engineers, product managers, and traditional IT operations staff who are new to the SRE philosophy. It is also ideal for stakeholders who need to understand why reliability is a shared responsibility. Skills you’ll gain Defining Service Level Indicators (SLIs) and Service Level Objectives (SLOs). Understanding the concept of Error Budgets and how they govern releases. Identifying “Toil” and understanding its impact on engineering productivity. Basic incident response workflows and post-mortem culture. Real-world projects you should be able to do Drafting an initial SLO document for a simple web service. Conducting a blameless post-mortem for a minor system disruption. Mapping manual tasks to identify candidates for automation. Preparation plan 7-14 days: Focus on reading core SRE books and understanding the vocabulary. 30 days: Engage with online modules and attend foundational webinars. 60 days: Apply concepts to a small internal project and review case studies. Common mistakes Treating SLOs as rigid targets rather than negotiation tools. Confusing SRE with traditional “Ops” with a new title. Best next certification after this Same-track option: Professional Level SRE Cross-track option: DevOps Foundation Leadership option: Technical Lead Essentials Certified Site Reliability Professional – Professional What it is This level validates the ability to implement SRE practices using modern tooling and automation. It proves that the engineer can actively improve the reliability of a production system through technical intervention. Who should take it This is designed for practicing SREs and DevOps engineers with 2-4 years of experience who are responsible for the uptime and performance of live environments. Skills you’ll gain Implementing advanced observability with Prometheus and Grafana. Building automated CI/CD pipelines with integrated reliability checks. Configuring automated incident alerting and escalation paths. Managing infrastructure as code using Terraform or Ansible. Real-world projects you should be able to do Designing a dashboard that visualizes error budget consumption in real-time. Automating the recovery of a failed microservice using Kubernetes probes. Building a canary deployment pipeline that rolls back based on SLI degradation. Preparation plan 7-14 days: Review documentation for monitoring and automation tools. 30 days: Complete hands-on labs focusing on incident response and IaC. 60 days: Conduct an end-to-end reliability audit of a staging environment. Common mistakes Over-automating before understanding the manual process. Creating too many alerts, leading to alert fatigue. Best next certification after this Same-track option: Advanced Level SRE Cross-track option: DevSecOps Specialist Leadership option: SRE Management Certified Site Reliability Professional – Advanced What it is The Advanced certification validates an engineer’s ability to design complex, multi-region reliability strategies. It focuses on high-level architecture, capacity planning, and organizational SRE culture. Who should take it This is intended for Principal Engineers, Architects, and SRE Leads who are responsible for the reliability of entire platforms or business units. Skills you’ll gain Designing multi-cloud and multi-region failover strategies. Advanced capacity planning and performance tuning at scale. Implementing Chaos Engineering to proactively find system weaknesses. Developing SRE team structures and hiring frameworks. Real-world projects you should be able to do Creating a global traffic management strategy for 99.99% availability. Running a “Game Day” to simulate a total region outage and recovery. Developing a custom observability platform for high-cardinality data. Preparation plan 7-14 days: Deep dive into distributed systems papers and architecture. 30 days: Design and document a complex failure scenario recovery plan. 60 days: Implement a Chaos Engineering experiment on a non-critical system. Common mistakes Ignoring the cost implications of high-availability designs. Focusing only on technical solutions while ignoring team culture. Best next certification after this Same-track option: Platform Engineering Expert Cross-track option: FinOps Specialist Leadership option: Director of Engineering / VP of Reliability Choose Your Learning Path DevOps Path The DevOps path focuses on the seamless integration of development and operations. For the Certified Site Reliability Professional, this means emphasizing the automation of the delivery pipeline and ensuring that reliability is baked into the code from the start. Practitioners on this path will learn how to bridge the gap between “building it” and “running it” using shared metrics. DevSecOps Path In this path, security is treated as a core component of reliability. A system cannot be reliable if it is not secure. Candidates will learn how to integrate automated security scanning into their CI/CD pipelines and how to apply SRE principles to security incident response. This path is essential for those working in highly regulated industries. SRE Path This is the “pure” reliability path, focusing deeply on the mechanics of production systems. It prioritizes observability, incident management, and the mathematical rigor of SLOs. This path is for the specialist who wants to be the ultimate authority on system uptime and performance, moving toward high-level reliability architecture. AIOps Path The AIOps path explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and operations. Candidates learn how to use machine learning models to predict system failures before they occur and how to automate the analysis of vast amounts of log data. This is a forward-looking path for engineers who want to manage systems at a scale that exceeds human manual capacity. MLOps Path Focusing on the reliability of machine learning pipelines, this path addresses the unique challenges of model drift and data integrity. An SRE in this path ensures that ML models are served reliably and that the underlying infrastructure can handle the intensive compute requirements of modern AI applications. It is a critical role for data-driven organizations. DataOps Path The DataOps path applies SRE principles to data engineering and data pipelines. It focuses on the reliability of data delivery, ensuring that data warehouses and real-time streams are consistent and performant. This path is vital for companies where data is the primary product or where business decisions depend on real-time analytics. FinOps Path Reliability at any cost is not a sustainable business strategy. The FinOps path teaches SREs how to balance performance with cloud spending. Candidates learn about unit economics, cost allocation, and how to optimize infrastructure to provide the highest reliability for the lowest possible price. Role → Recommended Certified Site Reliability Professional Certifications RoleRecommended CertificationsDevOps EngineerFoundation, Professional, DevSecOps SpecialistSREFoundation, Professional, AdvancedPlatform EngineerProfessional, Advanced, Platform ExpertCloud EngineerFoundation, Professional, FinOps SpecialistSecurity EngineerFoundation, DevSecOps SpecialistData EngineerFoundation, DataOps SpecialistFinOps PractitionerFoundation, FinOps SpecialistEngineering ManagerFoundation, SRE Management Track Next Certifications to Take After Certified Site Reliability Professional Same Track Progression Once you have mastered the Advanced level of SRE, the natural progression is to look toward Platform Engineering. This involves building the internal developer platforms (IDP) that allow other teams to be self-sufficient while maintaining reliability standards. Deepening your expertise in specific tools like Kubernetes or cloud-native networking also complements this track perfectly. Cross-Track Expansion An SRE professional can significantly increase their value by expanding into FinOps or DevSecOps. Understanding the financial implications of reliability or the security vulnerabilities of a distributed system makes you a much more versatile engineer. This cross-training allows you to participate in high-level business discussions that go beyond technical implementation. Leadership & Management Track For those looking to move away from the keyboard, the management track focuses on building and scaling SRE organizations. This involves learning how to hire the right talent, how to advocate for SRE budgets at the executive level, and how to foster a culture of blamelessness and continuous improvement across the entire engineering department. Training & Certification Support Providers for Certified Site Reliability Professional DevOpsSchool DevOpsSchool provides comprehensive training programs tailored for professionals looking to transition into SRE and DevOps roles. Their curriculum is highly practical, focusing on the tools and methodologies used in modern tech environments. With a strong presence in India, they offer both online and classroom-based sessions led by experienced industry practitioners. They emphasize hands-on labs, ensuring that students do not just learn the theory but can actually implement the solutions. Their support extends to career guidance and placement assistance, making them a popular choice for engineers at various stages of their careers. Cotocus Cotocus is known for its high-end technical consulting and specialized training programs in the cloud-native space. They focus on delivering in-depth knowledge of SRE, Kubernetes, and automated infrastructure. Their trainers are often active consultants who bring real-world problems and solutions into the classroom. Cotocus is particularly effective for corporate training, helping entire teams align on reliability standards. Their approach is focused on architectural depth, ensuring that candidates understand the “why” behind every technical decision. They provide a robust environment for learning the complexities of distributed systems at scale. Scmgalaxy Scmgalaxy serves as a massive knowledge hub and community for software configuration management and DevOps professionals. They offer a wide array of resources, including tutorials, certifications, and technical blogs that cover every aspect of the delivery lifecycle. Their training programs for SRE are designed to be accessible yet thorough, making them a great starting point for those new to the field. Scmgalaxy’s strength lies in its community-driven approach, providing a platform where engineers can share experiences and solve problems together. They are a reliable source for staying updated on the latest trends in reliability engineering. BestDevOps BestDevOps focuses on quality-driven education for the modern engineering professional. Their courses are structured to provide a clear path from beginner to expert level, with a strong emphasis on SRE and platform engineering. They pride themselves on keeping their content updated with the latest industry shifts, ensuring that students are learning current practices. BestDevOps provides a supportive learning environment with dedicated mentors who help candidates navigate the certification process. Their training modules are designed to be concise and impactful, catering to busy working professionals who need to maximize their learning time. devsecopsschool.com devsecopsschool.com is the go-to destination for engineers who want to master the integration of security into the reliability framework. Their courses focus on the DevSecOps track, teaching how to automate security checks and build resilient systems that can withstand cyber threats. They provide specialized training that is essential for SREs working in security-sensitive environments. The curriculum includes practical exercises on chaos security and policy as code. By focusing on this niche, they help professionals develop a rare and highly valuable skill set that bridges the gap between operations, security, and reliability. sreschool.com sreschool.com is the primary platform for the Certified Site Reliability Professional program, offering dedicated tracks for every level of SRE expertise. The platform is built by SREs for SREs, ensuring that the content is technically accurate and practically relevant. They provide a comprehensive suite of learning tools, including sandboxed environments where engineers can practice incident response in real-time. Their focus is entirely on reliability, making them the most specialized provider for this specific certification. The platform’s modular approach allows for a personalized learning journey that fits the specific needs of the individual. aiopsschool.com aiopsschool.com focuses on the future of operations, where artificial intelligence and machine learning are used to manage system reliability. Their training programs cover the AIOps track, teaching engineers how to implement predictive maintenance and automated root cause analysis. This is an essential resource for those looking to work with large-scale, complex systems that require automated oversight. They provide insight into the latest AI tools and how they can be integrated into traditional SRE workflows. Their courses are designed for forward-thinking engineers who want to be at the forefront of the next operational revolution. dataopsschool.com dataopsschool.com addresses the growing need for reliability in data engineering through its DataOps-focused curriculum. They teach how to apply SRE principles to data pipelines, ensuring that data is delivered accurately and on time. Their courses are vital for data engineers and SREs who are responsible for the health of data platforms. They cover topics such as data observability, pipeline automation, and managing the reliability of distributed data stores. By focusing on the intersection of data and operations, they help professionals ensure that the business can always rely on its data-driven insights. finopsschool.com finopsschool.com provides specialized training in cloud financial management, a critical skill for the modern SRE. Their courses teach how to align technical reliability with financial efficiency, ensuring that cloud infrastructure is optimized for both performance and cost. They provide a structured approach to FinOps, covering everything from cost allocation to unit economics. This training is essential for SREs who need to justify their infrastructure spending to stakeholders. Their curriculum helps professionals become “cloud-economists,” capable of driving significant cost savings for their organizations while maintaining high service levels. Frequently Asked Questions (General) How difficult is the Certified Site Reliability Professional exam? The difficulty depends on the level, but the Professional and Advanced levels are considered challenging due to their focus on practical application and real-world scenarios rather than rote memorization. How long does it take to prepare for the certification? Most professionals spend between 30 to 60 days preparing, depending on their existing experience with SRE concepts and the specific level of certification they are pursuing. Are there any prerequisites for the Foundation level? There are no formal prerequisites, though a basic understanding of software development and IT operations is highly recommended to grasp the concepts effectively. Does this certification help in getting a job in India? Yes, the demand for SREs in India’s tech hubs is massive, and this certification serves as a strong validator for recruiters looking for specialized reliability talent. Can I skip the Foundation level and go straight to Professional? While possible for very experienced engineers, it is generally recommended to follow the sequence to ensure no gaps exist in your understanding of the core SRE philosophy. What is the ROI of getting certified as an SRE? Certified SREs often command higher salaries and have access to more senior roles, as they are capable of managing the high-stakes production environments of major enterprises. How often is the certification content updated? The curriculum is reviewed annually to ensure it reflects current industry trends, tool updates, and evolving best practices in reliability engineering. Is the exam conducted online or at a center? The certification is primarily delivered online through a proctored environment, allowing professionals from around the globe to take the exam at their convenience. What tools should I be familiar with before taking the Professional exam? Familiarity with Kubernetes, Prometheus, Grafana, and at least one major cloud provider (AWS, Azure, or GCP) is highly beneficial for the practical sections. Is there a community or alumni network I can join? Yes, successful candidates gain access to a global community of certified professionals where they can network, share knowledge, and find career opportunities. Do I need to know how to code to become a Certified Site Reliability Professional? Yes, a basic to intermediate level of coding (usually Python or Go) and shell scripting is necessary, as SRE is essentially an engineering approach to operations. How does this certification compare to a DevOps certification? While DevOps is broad, this certification is specialized, focusing specifically on the “Run” phase and the technical reliability of systems in production. FAQs on Certified Site Reliability Professional What makes the Certified Site Reliability Professional unique compared to other SRE programs? It focuses heavily on the practical “day-two” operations and the alignment of technical metrics with business goals like customer satisfaction and cost. Can this certification be used to transition from a manual QA role? Yes, but it requires a significant upskilling in automation and infrastructure, making the Foundation level an excellent starting point for that transition. How does the program handle multi-cloud reliability? The Advanced level specifically covers strategies for maintaining availability across different cloud providers, reflecting the reality of modern enterprise environments. Is incident management a major part of the exam? Yes, understanding the lifecycle of an incident, from detection to resolution and post – mortem analysis, is a core component of the certification. Are the labs included in the training program? Most training providers for this certification include hands-on labs that simulate real production environments to help you practice your skills. Does the certification cover Chaos Engineering? Yes, specifically at the Professional and Advanced levels, where proactive failure testing is introduced as a key reliability practice. How does this program address the “human” side of SRE? It emphasizes blameless culture and psychological safety, recognizing that human factors are just as important as technical ones in incident response. Can I renew my certification? Certifications are typically valid for two to three years, after which you can renew by passing an updated exam or progressing to the next level. Final Thoughts: Is Certified Site Reliability Professional Worth It? From the perspective of a mentor who has seen the industry evolve over decades, the Certified Site Reliability Professional is a high-value investment for any engineer committed to the production side of software. We are moving past the era where “knowing how to code” is enough. Today’s market demands engineers who understand how that code behaves under pressure, how it fails, and how to make it resilient. This certification provides the structured path needed to move from a reactive role to a proactive engineering role. It isn’t just about adding a badge to your profile; it’s about internalizing a mindset that prioritizes long-term system health over short-term fixes. If you are looking to future-proof your career and take on the most challenging and rewarding roles in modern technology, this certification is an excellent step forward. View the full article

Introduction In today’s digital landscape, the need for converting documents from one format to another is greater than ever. Whether it’s converting PDF files to Word, PowerPoint to PDF, or even image files into text through Optical Character Recognition (OCR), document conversion tools have become essential for individuals, businesses, and professionals alike. As technology continues to evolve, the demand for versatile, accurate, and user-friendly document conversion tools is on the rise. In 2026, the document conversion tool industry is expected to be even more robust, offering faster, more secure, and highly efficient solutions. These tools provide businesses and individuals with a means to streamline their workflows, improve productivity, and save time by converting documents without the need for manual intervention. However, with so many options available, choosing the right document conversion tool can be daunting. This guide highlights the top 10 document conversion tools for 2026, along with their features, pros, cons, and a comparison to help you make an informed decision. Top 10 Document Conversion Tools for 2026 1. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC Short Description Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is one of the most well-known tools in the document conversion space. It allows users to convert a variety of document formats, including PDFs, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. Key Features Converts PDFs to various formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). OCR for converting scanned documents into editable text. Integrates seamlessly with Adobe Cloud for easy storage and sharing. Provides secure and password-protected conversions. Converts web pages into PDFs and vice versa. Pros Highly accurate PDF conversions. Trusted brand with strong security features. Excellent OCR support for scanned documents. Cons Expensive subscription plan. The user interface can be overwhelming for beginners. Limited free trial period. 2. Smallpdf Short Description Smallpdf is an online document conversion tool that is known for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. It allows users to convert, merge, split, and compress PDFs, making it an excellent option for quick, on-the-go conversions. Key Features Converts PDFs to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and image formats. Online tool, no software installation required. Compresses PDFs to reduce file sizes. Secure file transfer with SSL encryption. Supports batch processing for multiple documents. Pros Easy-to-use interface. Free version with essential tools. No installation required (online tool). Cons Limited features in the free version. Upload and download speed can be slow with larger files. Limited to the web-based platform. 3. Nitro Pro Short Description Nitro Pro is another powerful desktop PDF tool that allows users to convert, create, and edit PDF documents. It is known for its wide range of conversion options, including converting scanned documents into editable text. Key Features Convert PDFs to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. Edit and annotate PDF files. Includes advanced OCR features for scanned documents. Integration with cloud storage platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox. Batch processing support. Pros Affordable compared to Adobe Acrobat Pro. Fast document conversion speeds. Advanced editing and OCR features. Cons Limited online support and updates. Not as feature-rich as Adobe Acrobat. No mobile application for on-the-go conversion. 4. Smallpdf Short Description: Smallpdf is an online document conversion tool known for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. It enables users to convert, merge, split, and compress PDFs, making it a great option for quick, on-the-go document handling. Key Features: Converts PDFs to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and image formats Fully online tool with no software installation required Compresses PDFs to reduce file sizes Secure file transfer with SSL encryption Supports batch processing for multiple documents Pros: Easy-to-use interface Free version with essential tools No installation required (web-based) Cons: Limited features in the free version Upload and download speed may be slow for large files Restricted to a web-based platform only 5. Wondershare PDFelement Short Description Wondershare PDFelement is a versatile PDF editor that also offers document conversion features. It is suitable for users looking for a comprehensive solution to manage and convert their documents. Key Features Convert PDFs to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. OCR technology for converting scanned PDFs to editable formats. Batch processing for multiple file conversions. Supports file encryption and password protection. User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality. Pros Affordable subscription compared to other tools. Rich editing and conversion features. OCR capabilities for scanned documents. Cons Limited advanced features in comparison to Adobe Acrobat. Occasional lag with large files. Learning curve for advanced features. 6. PDF Converter Ultimate Short Description PDF Converter Ultimate is a document conversion tool that focuses on converting PDF files to and from multiple formats. It also offers batch processing and high-quality conversions. Key Features Converts PDF to Word, Excel, PPT, HTML, and image formats. Batch processing for high-volume conversion tasks. OCR for converting scanned PDFs. Supports a wide range of document formats. Offers file editing and merging tools. Pros High-quality conversion with minimal errors. Supports a large variety of file formats. Affordable pricing. Cons Doesn’t offer cloud integration. No mobile version available. Slow processing for large files. 7. CloudConvert Short Description CloudConvert is an online file conversion tool that supports various file types. It allows users to convert documents, images, audio, and video files, making it a versatile solution for all-in-one conversions. Key Features Supports over 200 file formats. Converts documents, images, audio, and video files. API integration for developers. No software installation required (web-based tool). Free version with limitations on file size. Pros Supports a wide variety of file types. API support for automation and integration. No installation needed. Cons Slower conversion times for larger files. Limited features in the free version. Requires an internet connection. 8. UniPDF Short Description UniPDF is a free desktop tool for Windows users that specializes in converting PDFs into text-based formats such as Word, HTML, and image files. Key Features Convert PDFs to Word, HTML, JPG, and other formats. Batch conversion support. Retains formatting and images during conversion. Simple interface suitable for beginners. Free version available. Pros Completely free to use. Simple and lightweight tool. Batch processing support. Cons Limited to a small number of file formats. Only available for Windows. No cloud storage integration. 9. Online2PDF Short Description Online2PDF is a free web-based tool that allows users to convert and edit PDFs quickly. It supports a variety of document formats and provides powerful tools for editing PDF documents before conversion. Key Features Convert PDFs to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. Edit PDFs by adding text, annotations, and images. Support for batch processing. Online and free to use. Allows file merging and splitting. Pros Completely free to use. Simple to use for basic conversions. Allows document merging and splitting. Cons Limited features compared to paid tools. Requires an internet connection. File size restrictions for free users. 10. DocuSign Short Description DocuSign is primarily known for its eSignature functionality, but it also offers document conversion features, especially for PDF files. It is best suited for businesses that require document signing and conversion in a secure environment. Key Features Convert documents to and from PDF. Electronic signatures for legal agreements. Cloud-based service for storing and sharing documents. Document tracking and audit trail. High-level security with encryption. Pros Excellent for legal and business document signing. Highly secure with encryption. Easy integration with other tools. Cons More focused on eSigning than conversions. Limited free trial period. Pricing can be high for small businesses. Comparison Table: Tool NameBest ForPlatform(s) SupportedStandout FeaturePricingG2/Capterra RatingAdobe AcrobatProfessionals & EnterprisesWindows, macOSPowerful OCRStarts at $14.99/month4.5/5SmallpdfIndividuals & SMBsWebEasy-to-use interfaceFree / Premium Plan4.4/5Nitro ProEnterprises & BusinessesWindows, macOSAdvanced editing toolsStarts at $159.99/year4.4/5ZamzarOccasional UsersWebLarge file format supportFree / Paid Plans4.0/5Wondershare PDFelementSMBs & ProfessionalsWindows, macOSComprehensive PDF editingStarts at $79.99/year4.3/5PDF Converter UltimateBusinesses with high-volume needsWindowsBatch processingStarts at $29.99/year4.2/5CloudConvertDevelopers & Tech UsersWebAPI integrationFree / Paid Plans4.5/5UniPDFWindows UsersWindowsSimple, free PDF conversionFree4.1/5Online2PDFCasual UsersWebFree and easy to useFree4.0/5DocuSignLegal & EnterpriseWeb, iOS, AndroidE-signature and conversionStarts at $10/month4.6/5 Which Document Conversion Tool is Right for You? Choosing the right document conversion tool largely depends on your specific needs. Here’s a guide to help you decide: For businesses or enterprises: Tools like Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, Nitro Pro, or DocuSign are ideal, offering comprehensive features and high-level security. For casual users: Smallpdf, Zamzar, and UniPDF are perfect for quick conversions with an easy-to-use interface. For developers and tech users: CloudConvert is a great choice, offering API integration and support for a wide range of file formats. Conclusion As digital transformation accelerates, document conversion tools are an essential asset for anyone who deals with various document formats. The tools listed above offer a range of features, from basic conversions to advanced editing, OCR, and e-signatures. By evaluating your needs—whether you’re an individual, small business, or large enterprise—you can select the best tool that fits your document conversion requirements. In 2026, these tools will continue to evolve, offering more seamless integrations, better accuracy, and enhanced security features to keep up with the growing demand for efficient document handling. FAQs 1. What is the best document conversion tool for OCR? Adobe Acrobat Pro DC and Wondershare PDFelement are excellent tools for OCR, offering high accuracy in converting scanned documents. 2. Can I use these tools for free? Many tools, like Smallpdf and Zamzar, offer free versions with basic features. For advanced capabilities, paid plans are available. 3. Are these tools secure? Yes, most of these tools use SSL encryption and offer password protection for secure document conversions. View the full article

AI company Perplexity today introduced Perplexity Health, a suite of connectors that allow Perplexity to access your health data. Perplexity suggests that the feature is useful for aggregating health data from across different portals, apps, and devices. It is able to track metrics and trends over time across biomarkers, with information shown on a personalized dashboard. When asked a health-related question, Perplexity Health can answer based on medical records, lab results, and wearable data. With Perplexity Computer (Perplexity's AI agent tool), AI agents can use health information to build personalized fitness plans, nutrition plans, and more. Perplexity Health on Computer is rolling out to Pro and Max users in the U.S. first. Perplexity says that Perplexity Health draws from "premium medical literature" like clinical guidelines and peer-reviewed journals. Perplexity has established a Perplexity Health Advisory Board with physicians, researchers, and health tech experts who will "pressure-test" product decisions, content quality, and clinical safeguards against evidence-based medicine standards. Perplexity Health is able to connect to Apple Health, so it can integrate data collected by the Apple Watch and added to the Apple Health app. It also supports Fitbit, Ultrahuman, and Withings, along with electronic health records from more than 1.7 million care providers. Oura and Function integrations are coming soon. Health data is encrypted, and Perplexity says there are strict access controls and tools to manage or delete information at any time. Health information is not used to train AI models or sold to third parties. Perplexity is the second AI company to integrate with Apple Health. OpenAI introduced a ChatGPT Health feature with Apple Health support in early 2026.Tags: Apple Health, Perplexity This article, "Perplexity Can Now Access Your Apple Health Data to Answer Medical Questions" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Luxury brand Hermès has a new series of MagSafe-compatible chargers for the iPhone and Apple Watch, with prices that are higher than the cost of an iPhone 17 Pro Max. The $1,250 Paddock Solo Charger is a magnetic charger that works with a single device, while the $1,750 Paddock Duo can charge an Apple Watch and iPhone at the same time. The $1,750 Paddock Yoyo is also a dual charger, but it has a USB-C cable that wraps around the charger for travel purposes. Hermès also has bundles that pair the chargers with a Grand Paddock or Petit Paddock case, with prices ranging from $3,725 to $5,150. Each of the charging products has an H logo over the magnetic charging spot for alignment purposes, and they've been "meticulously encased in Swift calfskin" with saddle stitching. While these chargers cost thousands of dollars, Hermès took a cue from Apple and did not bundle them with a power adapter. Each charger requires a 20W or higher power adapter, but the company does throw in a free 3.3-foot USB-C cable. Apple stopped offering power adapters starting in 2020. Hermès is a longtime Apple partner, and has designed Apple Watch bands to be sold with the Hermès-branded Apple Watch models since 2015. Apple sells Hermès Apple Watch models and bands, but it is not offering the new Hermès chargers.Tags: Apple Watch Hermès, MagSafe This article, "Hermès Now Sells $1,250+ MagSafe Chargers Wrapped in Calfskin Leather" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple's current blood oxygen sensing implementation in the U.S. does not infringe on patents owned by Masimo and Apple will not face a revived import ban, a U.S. International Trade Commission judge said this week (via Reuters). After Apple was found to have violated Masimo's patents related to blood oxygen sensing, the Apple Watch faced a U.S. import ban that caused Apple to briefly pause sales of the device in December 2023 before Apple earned a temporary stay. Apple disabled blood oxygen sensing in January 2024, and was able to resume selling the Apple Watch without the functionality. In August 2025, Apple found a workaround and was able to bring blood oxygen sensing back to U.S. Apple Watch owners. Data is collected by the blood oxygen sensor on the Apple Watch, but it is processed on a paired iPhone rather than the watch itself, and the resulting information can only be viewed on the iPhone. Apple said the updated process did not violate the ITC ban, or infringe on Masimo's patents, and it was cleared by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Masimo did not agree with the decision and it quickly filed a lawsuit against CBP, accusing the agency of acting unlawfully and exceeding its authority. Masimo also pushed the ITC to look into whether Apple's solution violated the original import ban. The ITC ended up siding with Apple, and said that Apple's workaround does not violate Masimo patents. Since today's decision is preliminary, the full commission will need to affirm the ruling. Though Apple scored a win with the ITC, Masimo came out ahead in a separate appeals ruling today. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the original 2023 ITC decision that led to the Apple Watch import ban. The appeals court said that the Apple Watch did indeed infringe on Masimo's patents, and it declined to overturn the ban. Apple said that it would continue to investigate "all avenues for further review" in light of the appeals court decision. In November 2025, Apple also lost the patent infringement lawsuit that Masimo filed against it. A federal jury awarded Masimo $634 million, which Apple is appealing.Related Roundup: Apple Watch 11Tags: Apple Lawsuits, Masimo, Patent LawsuitsBuyer's Guide: Apple Watch (Neutral) This article, "ITC Judge Rules Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Workaround Does Not Infringe Masimo Patents" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Google is developing a native Gemini app for the Mac, reports Bloomberg. Right now, Mac users who want to use Google's Gemini AI have to use a web browser, but that will change with a dedicated Mac app. Google competitors like Anthropic and OpenAI have dedicated Mac apps for their chatbots, potentially making Claude and ChatGPT more convenient to use than Gemini. Google shared an early version of the Gemini app with beta testers this week to get feedback, but it's not clear when it might launch. Google has not provided release date information for the Gemini Mac app, and testers were told that the app only has "critical features," suggesting there's more to come before release. The app apparently looks similar to the Gemini apps designed for iPhone and iPad. The app is able to search the web, analyze uploaded documents, and maintain a conversation history. Google is asking users to test content generation tools for images, tables and charts, video, music, and more, plus provide feedback on mathematical questions and information analysis. Gemini for Mac will be able to integrate with other Mac apps through a Desktop Intelligence feature, mirroring functionality available with tools like Claude Cowork. Gemini will be able to read the Mac's display, using the content to personalize Gemini and allow the AI to complete tasks. Bloomberg says the Mac Gemini app includes wording about how Desktop Intelligence works. "When you enable apps for Desktop Intelligence you are enabling Gemini to see what you see (such as screen context) and pull content directly from these apps to improve and personalize your experience only when Gemini is in use," reads app code. With iOS 27 and macOS 27, Apple plans to introduce its own Siri chatbot that will rival Gemini, Claude, and ChatGPT. Apple has partnered with Google, and the ‌Siri‌ chatbot will use an AI model developed by Google. Tags: ChatGPT, Gemini, Google This article, "Google Working on Native Gemini AI App for Mac to Rival ChatGPT and Claude" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

In a research note for investment bank Barclays earlier this month, Apple analyst Tim Long said his supply chain sources mentioned the possibility of the iPhone 18 base model being announced in March next year, rather than in September this year. This split launch has been widely rumored by multiple sources in recent months. More interestingly, Long dropped two unique pieces of information. First, he said shipments of the rumored foldable iPhone will likely begin in December this year, a few months after the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max launch in the usual September timeframe. A similar situation occurred in 2017, with the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus launching in September, and the iPhone X launching in November. Second, Long said that Apple plans to release two other devices alongside the iPhone 18 base model in March next year, including a lower-end iPhone 18e and either an iPhone 18 Plus or an iPhone Air 2. Long mentioning the possibility of an iPhone 18 Plus is notable, as we have not heard any other rumors about such a device. It is unclear if Long mentioning the possibility of an iPhone 18 Plus is simply spitballing, or if it is information that he received from his supply chain contacts. There have been multiple reports about a revamped iPhone Air being in the works for next year, so an iPhone 18 Plus seems quite unlikely for now, but we shall see what happens. Apple does not break down its iPhone sales on a model-by-model basis, but various reports and research firms have indicated that both the Plus and Air have been unpopular relative to other iPhone models over the years. The return of a Plus model does not seem entirely out of the realm of possibility, if the Air has sold even worse than the Plus, and there is still a chance that the Air model was a one-off release. But, if an iPhone 18 Plus was truly coming next March, we probably would have heard more rumors about it by now. This is the first time we have heard these claims, so treat them with some skepticism for now.Related Roundups: iPhone 18, iPhone Air, iPhone FoldTags: Barclays, Foldable iPhone, Tim LongBuyer's Guide: iPhone Air (Buy Now)Related Forum: iPhone This article, "Analyst: Foldable iPhone Likely to Ship in December, iPhone 18 Plus is Possible Next Year" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

The highlights of this week in Apple deals include the return of an all-time low price on AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and ongoing launch discounts on all of Apple's new products. You'll also find a few early accessory deals from Amazon's Big Spring Sale 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. AirPods Pro 3 What's the deal? Take $49 off AirPods Pro 3 Where can I get it? Amazon Where can I find the original deal? Right here $49 OFFAirPods Pro 3 for $199.99 Amazon has the AirPods Pro 3 available for $199.99 this week, down from $249.00. This is a match of the all-time low price on the AirPods Pro 3, which has been rare on Amazon in recent weeks. M4 iPad Air What's the deal? Take up to $80 off M4 iPad Air Where can I get it? Amazon Where can I find the original deal? Right here $40 OFF11-inch M4 iPad Air for $559.00 $50 OFF13-inch M4 iPad Air for $749.00 Last week was the launch week for all of Apple's new products, and Amazon is already offering good discounts on many models of the M4 iPad Air, although a few of the prices have risen a bit since we first covered the deals earlier this week. We're still seeing up to $80 off both the 11-inch and 13-inch models, however, which is solid for a brand-new product. MacBook Air and MacBook Pro What's the deal? Take $49 off M5 MacBook Air and M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro Where can I get it? Amazon Where can I find the original deal? Right here $49 OFF13-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,049.99 $49 OFF15-inch M5 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,249.99 $49 OFF16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB/1TB) for $2,649.99 $49 OFF16-inch M5 Max MacBook Pro (36GB/2TB) for $3,849.99 Similar to the M4 iPad Air, Amazon is offering multiple discounts across the new M5 MacBook Air and M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro this week. You'll find $49 off select models right now, without the need of a coupon code. Samsung Monitors What's the deal? Save on Samsung monitors Where can I get it? Amazon Where can I find the original deal? Right here $300 OFFSamsung Smart Monitor M9 on Amazon UP TO $1,000 OFFSamsung Monitor Sale This week, there were two sales on Samsung monitors, split between Amazon and Samsung's own website. On Amazon, there was a big accessory sale this week, and the highlights of the event included big savings on monitors from Samsung, LG, Dell, and more. Samsung's newest Smart Monitor M9 hit the all-time low price of $1,299.99 during the sale, and it's still available now. On Samsung, you can get a free copy of Resident Evil Requiem with the purchase of select monitors. You'll also find big discounts on TVs and Galaxy products this week. 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. We first started tracking the return of these deals last month, but this sale has now expanded with many more options on both 42mm and 46mm GPS models. 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: AirPods Pro 3 Hit $199.99 Lowest Price on Amazon" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple today urged iPhone users who are running iOS 13 or iOS 14 to upgrade to iOS 15 to protect themselves from being hacked through malicious web content. In a support document, Apple highlights recent reports about hacking tools that are effective against older versions of iOS. Hackers are using iOS exploit kits known as "Coruna" and "DarkSword," which can take advantage of vulnerabilities in iOS 13 through iOS 17.2.1. "If your iPhone doesn't have the latest software, update iOS to protect your data," Apple says. Apple has patched the vulnerabilities as they have come to light over the last several months, so users who have already upgraded to the newest version of iOS available for their iPhone are protected from the malicious websites and links that are circulating right now. Users running updated versions of iOS 15 through iOS 26 are safe. Apple released new iOS 15 and iOS 16 updates on March 11 to address the security issue, and Apple says that devices still on iOS 13 or iOS 14 need to upgrade to iOS 15 for protection from the hacking tool. iPhone users running an outdated version of iOS will get an additional alert to install a Critical Security Update in the next few days. All iPhones with iOS 13 or iOS 14 can be upgraded to iOS 15, and there are no iPhones that have those two older updates as a final software version. Apple also protects users via the Apple Safe Browsing feature in Safari, which is turned on by default. It blocks the malicious URL domains that have been identified in the attacks. Users who are unable to update their devices can alternatively turn on Lockdown Mode, which will offer protection from the attacks on out-of-date software. Lockdown Mode is available in iOS 16 or later, and it works by blocking hacking vectors like images in Messages and malicious websites. Lockdown Mode is designed for people who are at risk of a state sponsored attack, and it is not for the everyday iOS user. There is no evidence so far that the hacking tools have been used to target people in the U.S., but they have been used in Ukraine, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Malaysia, and they are effective against anyone running an out-of-date older version of iOS. This article, "Apple Urges iPhone Users Running Outdated iOS Versions to Update Immediately" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Vivaldi this week released version 7.9 of its desktop browser, which includes a new UI Auto-hide feature that clears the entire browser interface from view while you read, watch, or work. When enabled, UI Auto-hide removes the tab bar, address bar, toolbars, and status indicators from the screen entirely, and moving the cursor to any edge of the window brings everything back instantly. The feature can be configured to hide only specific elements like the tab bar, the address bar, or the full set of chrome all at once. UI Auto-hide can be toggled via the keyboard shortcut Command-F10, or through a new icon in the status bar. All available options live under Settings ➝ Appearance ➝ UI Auto-hide. This update also introduces Follower Tab, which is designed to let users explore links without losing their place on the current page. Right-clicking a link gives you the option to open it as a tiled Follower Tab, which loads the linked page side by side with the original. Subsequent links clicked in the original tab continue opening in the follower pane, while the source page stays pinned in place. Vivaldi's built-in email client also gains several improvements in the v7.9. The mail composer can now be popped out into its own independent window, making it easier to draft messages alongside the inbox or on a second monitor. Meanwhile, a new toggle lets you switch between rich text and plain text within the composer. Vivaldi says memory usage in the mail list has also been reduced, which should help performance on larger inboxes. Mailing list reply routing has apparently been improved as well, and users can now save selected messages directly to disk. Vivaldi 7.9 is a free download for Mac, Windows, and Linux from the Vivaldi website. As with previous versions, the browser ships with built-in ad and tracker blocking, extensive tab management tools, and support for Chrome extensions.Tag: Vivaldi This article, "Vivaldi 7.9 for Desktop Adds Auto-Hide UI for Distraction-Free Browsing" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Apple kicked off its 50th anniversary celebrations with a surprise Alicia Keys performance at its Grand Central store in New York last week, and it has since hosted similar events in China and South Korea. Next up, we have discovered that Apple is planning to host additional celebrations in Canada, France, and Thailand. On its Canadian website, Apple says it will be hosting a talk with professional figure skater Elladj Baldé, as part of its free Today at Apple program. However, the page does not indicate which Apple Store will be hosting this session or when it will take place, and Apple is not yet allowing customers to reserve a spot. "Join us to celebrate 50 years of thinking different at Apple with professional figure skater Elladj Baldé," says Apple. "Discover how he uses ice as a catalyst for creativity and change — inspiring a new generation of athletes to be fearlessly authentic." Alicia Keys performs at Apple Grand Central in New York On his Instagram page, Baldé can be seen skating on a frozen lake in Canada's Banff National Park. He recorded a video of himself with the iPhone 17 Pro's Dual Capture mode, which captures footage from the front and rear cameras simultaneously. In France, there will be four Today at Apple sessions tied to the company's 50th anniversary at Apple's Champs-Élysées store in Paris. Two of the sessions take place on Wednesday, March 25, and another two follow on Thursday, March 26. South Korean boy band CORTIS performs at Apple Myeongdong in Seoul The sessions will feature DJ and producer Myd, graphic designer So Me, fictional radio station SOPORI FM, and musician and producer Boombass. In Thailand, there will be a Today at Apple session at Apple's Iconsiam store in Bangkok, on Saturday, March 21. The session is already full. Li Yuchun performs at Apple Taikoo Li in Chengdu, China "Discover your creative power and celebrate '50 Years of Thinking Different' with Apple in a session where Molly, the artist behind Crybaby, will guide you in thinking differently to express yourself through art," says Apple. "She'll share her inspirations and work techniques, showing you how to transform emotions into dreamy characters and then create unique stickers using Procreate on iPad and Apple Pencil." Apple turns 50 on April 1, and it promised to celebrate throughout March, with each gathering focused on how Apple products fuel creativity.Tags: Apple 50th Anniversary, Apple Store, Today at Apple This article, "Apple's 50th Anniversary Celebrations Coming to Three More Countries" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article

Amazon this week has all-time low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11, with $100 discounts across numerous models of the smartwatch. We first started tracking the return of these deals last month, but this sale has now expanded with many more options on both 42mm and 46mm GPS models. 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 can get the 42mm GPS Apple Watch Series 11 for $299.00, down from $399.00, and the 46mm GPS model for $329.00, down from $429.00. On Amazon, you'll find four of the 42mm GPS models on sale at this all-time low price, and four of the 46mm GPS models on sale as well. $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (42mm GPS) for $299.00 $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (46mm GPS) for $329.00 If you're shopping for cellular models, you can find record low prices on multiple models this week on Amazon. The 42mm cellular Apple Watch Series 11 has hit $399.00, down from $499.00, and the 46mm cellular model has hit $429.00, down from $529.00. $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (42mm Cell) for $399.00 $100 OFFApple Watch Series 11 (46mm Cell) for $429.00 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, "Apple Watch Series 11 Hits All-Time Low Prices on Amazon With $100 Off Nearly Every Aluminum Model" first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums View the full article