In line with our report from several days ago, Apple today updated its Apple Store application for iOS devices [App Store] with new support for build-to-order Mac customizations. The update also brings enhanced in-store capabilities to go along with other changes to the company's retail stores.
What's new
- Enhanced in-store mode lets you get help and support quickly when you're at an Apple Retail Store. - The ability to custom-configure a new Mac with the options you want.
The Apple Store application is also now rolling out in a number of European countries. The app had been exclusive to the United States until today's update.
Unfortunately for iPad users, the Apple Store application is not yet universal and thus offers only a single view optimized for the screen size of the iPhone and iPod touch, although the app of course works on the iPad as well.
Apple is not expected to release a standard iPhone 18 model this year, according to a growing number of reports that suggest the company is planning a significant change to its long-standing annual iPhone launch cycle.
Despite the immense success of the iPhone 17 in 2025, the iPhone 18 is not expected to arrive until the spring of 2027, leaving the iPhone 17 in the lineup as the latest...
Language learning app Duolingo has apparently been using the iPhone's Live Activity feature to display ads on the Lock Screen and the Dynamic Island, which violates Apple's design guidelines.
According to multiple reports on Reddit, the Duolingo app has been displaying an ad for a "Super offer," which is Duolingo's paid subscription option.
Apple's guidelines for Live Activity state that...
The company behind the BlackBerry-like Clicks Keyboard accessory for the iPhone today unveiled a new Android 16 smartphone called the Clicks Communicator.
The purpose-built device is designed to be used as a second phone alongside your iPhone, with the intended focus being communication over content consumption. It runs a custom Android launcher that offers a curated selection of messaging...
Apple is planning to release a low-cost MacBook in 2026, which will apparently compete with more affordable Chromebooks and Windows PCs. Apple's most affordable Mac right now is the $999 MacBook Air, and the upcoming low-cost MacBook is expected to be cheaper. Here's what we know about the low-cost MacBook so far.
Size
Rumors suggest the low-cost MacBook will have a display that's around 13 ...
Apple plans to introduce a 12.9-inch MacBook in spring 2026, according to TrendForce.
In a press release this week, the Taiwanese research firm said this MacBook will be aimed at the entry-level to mid-range market, with "competitive pricing."
TrendForce did not share any further details about this MacBook, but the information that it shared lines up with several rumors about a more...
Apple today announced a number of updates to Apple Fitness+ and activity with the Apple Watch.
The key announcements include:
New Year limited-edition award: Users can win the award by closing all three Activity Rings for seven days in a row in January.
"Quit Quitting" Strava challenge: Available in Strava throughout January, users who log 12 workouts anytime in the month will win an ...
Govee today introduced three new HomeKit-compatible lighting products, including the Govee Floor Lamp 3, the Govee Ceiling Light Ultra, and the Govee Sky Ceiling Light.
The Govee Floor Lamp 3 is the successor to the Floor Lamp 2, and it offers Matter integration with the option to connect to HomeKit. The Floor Lamp 3 offers an upgraded LuminBlend+ lighting system that can reproduce 281...
Belkin today announced a range of new charging and connectivity accessories at CES 2026, expanding its portfolio of products aimed at Apple device users.
UltraCharge Pro Power Bank 10K with Magnetic Ring
The lineup includes new Qi2 and Qi2.2 wireless chargers, magnetic power banks, a high-capacity laptop battery, and USB-C productivity accessories, with an emphasis on higher charging...
Nice option but I walked out of the apple store in Deer Park IL and walked across the street to Best Buy to buy my iMac. I waited 45 min for a "specialist" while all I wanted was a cashier. I used the iMac in the store to find the stock across the street and went over.
I can see the waiting list as being a deterrent for people to stay around even if you can reserve.
Just my opinion. I do like the improvements though
Mike
Next upgrade will block you from accessing other ecommerce sites if you're inside an Apple store.
$400 for an 8 gig DDR3 1066 upgrade?!? :eek: That can't be right. Two 4gb 1066 DDR3 laptop SO-DIMMs retail for $80 a set. Heck, PNY has them for $57 after rebate and free shipping. That $400 can't be right, can it? :confused:
Actually, it's not true. The upgrade is $200 according to Apple's website. That image must be a mock-up. :o
