MacRumors

Apple accessory company Nomad today announced the launch of the Stand One, a new charging product that is designed for MagSafe iPhones. The charger is equipped with an official Made for iPhone ‌MagSafe‌ charging puck, which is able to charge a MagSafe-compatible device at up to 15W.

Nomad sent me a Stand One to take a look at ahead of launch, so I can share a more detailed overview with MacRumors readers. Like most of Nomad's products, the Stand One is a higher-end charger that prioritizes build quality, design, and aesthetics over affordability.

It is made from CNC-machined metal in silver or carbide, with glass over the front for a shiny, glossy look. Design wise, the Stand One looks great on a desk. It's slim, doesn't take up a lot of room, and is one of the more premium charging options that I've tested. For those who have used a Base One from Nomad, it has the same general look and feel.

With a glass faceplate, this charging stand does have the potential to pick up fingerprints, but as it's a desktop accessory, most people aren't going to be touching it on a regular basis. It weighs in at over a pound so it is sturdy and stable, plus there's a silicone material at the bottom for keeping it in position.

Nomad says the weight makes it stay anchored to the table, but honestly even at this weight you can pick up your phone in the wrong way and take the charger with it. You still need to do the little twist and pull motion when removing your iPhone from the charger, something that has to be done with basically any ‌MagSafe‌ charger. The weight is fine and makes it feel more premium, but I'm not sure it's adding anything functional.

The stand is using an official ‌MagSafe‌ charging puck so it charges identically to Apple's own ‌MagSafe‌ charger, and I saw no variation in speeds between the two when testing it. The charging puck is white and has the same soft texture as Apple's ‌MagSafe‌ charger. The angle of the stand is not adjustable and it is set at 21 degrees, which was fine for my purposes.

I used it positioned next to my computer for glancing over at my iPhone when needed to see incoming notifications. It's also an adequate viewing angle for videos, and it can be used in either portrait or landscape orientation depending on your preference. There is an integrated USB-C cable that has a braided design for durability, and while that's fine, I always prefer a cable that can be separated in case I want to swap to something that's not as long.

In this case, the cable is two meters, which is longer than I prefer with a setup where there's a power adapter on the desk or I'm using a hub, but I can't swap it out because it's integrated. The Stand One needs a 20W power adapter and it does not ship with one, which is an ongoing complaint that I have with Nomad products. Nomad sells a nice, compact 20W charger that I'm a fan of, but it's an extra $19.

While this is designed primarily for the iPhone, it can also charge the MagSafe-enabled AirPods Pro 2. Charging standard AirPods or a non-MagSafe phone is not possible because the upright design requires a magnetic connection. This is a single device charger, so you can only charge one product at a time.

There is some underutilized space at the back of the Stand One where Nomad could have potentially integrated an AirPod charger to give it more utility, which would have made the price easier to swallow.

I have no complaints about this stand, except for the price. It's $109.95, which is a lot for a single device charger. That price gets you a higher build quality and a premium design, so if you're looking for an elevated charger that's not just another clunky plastic accessory, the Stand One is worth checking out. You can get it from Nomad's website starting today.

Amazon today has Apple's M1 iMac (7-Core GPU, 256GB) for the all-time low price of $1,099.99 in Green, Silver, and Pink, down from $1,299.00. Although stock on the Green and Silver colors is dwindling, the Pink option remains steadily available to deliver by March 26.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

This is only the third time in 2023 that we've tracked an all-time low price on the entry-level M1 iMac. As of writing, only Amazon is offering this sale.

Amazon also has the M1 iMac (8-Core GPU, 256GB) for $1,299.99, down from $1,499.00. This is another match for an all-time low price on the M1 iMac, and it's available in four colors right now on Amazon: Pink, Orange, Purple, and Yellow.

You can keep track of ongoing sales on Apple's iMac line by visiting our Best iMac Deals guide. There, we keep track of the best iMac offers from Amazon, Adorama, B&H Photo, and other retailers, so be sure to check back often if you're shopping for an iMac for the first time, or thinking of upgrading. 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.

Apple's iPhone 14 Plus appears to be selling better than the iPhone 13 mini it effectively replaced in the company's flagship lineup, based on display panel shipment data provided by Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC).

According to the DSCC report, which compares iPhone panel shipment data from June 2022 through April 2023 (allocating a two-month forecast), shipments for the 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus are 59% higher than they were for the 5.4-inch iPhone 13 mini over the equivalent period year-on-year.

That's despite evidence suggesting that the iPhone 14 Plus is the least popular model in the current series.

Although the iPhone 14 Plus appears to be doing a lot better than the iPhone 13 mini, it's far behind the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which takes a 36% share of overall panel shipments for the series. The iPhone 14 Pro accounts for 28% of shipments, while the iPhone 14 takes a 25% share. The iPhone 14 Plus meanwhile languishes behind the others with a 11% share.

Overall, the iPhone 14 series looks to be marginally more popular than the previous series, with a 2% increase in the number of year-on-year panel shipments as of April, apparently buoyed by increased sales of the more expensive Pro models at the cost of fewer standard iPhone 14 models being sold.

Taking into account potential stockpiling and shipment lags, monthly panel shipment numbers are unlikely to mirror the exact same number of iPhone units being sold in any given month. Nevertheless, the combined numbers for the 11-month period provide a likely accurate overall picture of sales.

Apple's upcoming iPhone 15 series will include support for faster charging speeds when used with MFi-certified USB-C chargers, including its own 20W Power Adapter, according to the latest research note from Apple industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

This year, Apple will transition the iPhone from Lightning to USB-C in order to comply with European regulations that require electronic devices to have non-proprietary, common charging methods.

As part of the move, Apple is expected to restrict certain advantages of USB-C like faster charging and data speeds to work with MFi-certified cables and chargers only. As a result, Kuo believes Apple is anticipating a major increase in demand for its own USB-C 20W Power Adapter. From his latest post on Medium:

I believe Apple will optimize the fast charging performance of MFi-certified chargers for the iPhone 15. Among Apple's chargers, the 20W USB-C model is the most cost-effective choice for iPhone users, resulting in strong replacement demand for 20W USB-C chargers.

In addition to the benefits of owning an Apple-certified charger, Kuo believes that another potential driving factor behind the strong replacement demand will be iPhone 15 customers' desire to own more than one USB-C charger to meet the need for more charging locations.

Given these factors, Kuo says that shipments of Apple's USB-C 20W Power Adapter in 2023 are "expected to see a significant 30–40% YoY growth, amounting to 230–240 million units," with Apple supplier LY iTech standing out as the main beneficiary in terms of revenue contribution.

Since being introduced in 2012, first-party and MFi-certified Lightning ports and connectors have contained a small integrated circuit that confirms the authenticity of the parts involved in the connection. Non-MFi-certified third-party charging cables do not feature this chip, often leading to "This accessory is not supported" warnings on connected Apple devices.

Rumors have suggested that the replacement USB-C port on iPhone 15 models will continue to have a Lightning-like authentication chip, despite USB-C ports on Apple's iPads having no such chip. The concern from a user perspective is that Apple will use the MFi program to limit features like fast charging and high-speed data transfer to Apple and MFi-certified cables. Kuo's latest prediction appears to suggest the same.

Kuo has previously claimed that the USB-C port on the ‌iPhone 15‌ and ‌iPhone 15‌ Plus will remain limited to Lightning/USB 2.0 speeds, while faster transfer speeds will be exclusive to the ‌iPhone 15 Pro‌ and ‌iPhone 15 Pro‌ Max models.

A selection of controllers from gaming company 8BitDo are now compatible with Apple's product lineup, thanks to a firmware update that was released today.

The 8BitDo SN30 Pro for Android, SN30 Pro, Pro+, Pro 2, Ultimate 2.4g and Lite SE can be used with iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TV devices that are running the latest Apple software.

All 8BitDo controllers that are compatible with Apple devices can be used like any other Made for iPhone controller to play games that offer controller support, including Apple Arcade titles.

iPads and Macs with USB-C ports can use a wired connection to a compatible 8BitDo controller, but otherwise Bluetooth connections are available. Up to four controllers can be connected at one time depending on device, and unfortunately, rumble and motion control functions are not supported.

Controllers will need a firmware update to work with Apple devices, with the firmware updating software available through the 8BitDo website.

After a years-long wait, Apple Pay today launched in South Korea, allowing those living in the country to use Apple's payment system to make contactless payments using the iPhone or Apple Watch.

Apple has been working to bring ‌Apple Pay‌ to South Korea since 2017, but Apple was unable to be registered as an electronic financial business operator because regulators were investigating whether ‌Apple Pay‌ violated local regulations and laws. Apple was finally approved by financial regulators back in February.

NFC terminal adoption was also low in retail stores in South Korea around when ‌Apple Pay‌ first launched, which continues to be an issue. There are more NFC terminals than there were six years ago, but The Korea Times suggests ‌Apple Pay‌ will face "significant challenges" in Korea due to the limited number of NFC terminals.

With ‌Apple Pay‌, credit and debit cards from supported banks in South Korea can be added to the iPhone and Apple Watch to make purchases at stores that have contactless payment options. ‌Apple Pay‌ cards can also be used on iPhone, iPad, and Mac to make ‌Apple Pay‌ purchases on the web.

According to the Apple Pay website in South Korea, a number of stores are accepting ‌Apple Pay‌ including McDonald's, Shake Shack, Lotteria, Krispy Kreme, Gong Cha, Lotte, HomePlus, Hollys, and more.

At the current time, ‌Apple Pay‌ is limited to Hyundai Card users, which could see South Koreans interested in using the service picking up a Hyundai Card. No other card companies are participating in ‌Apple Pay‌ as of yet.

As previously rumored, the next-generation iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will feature a unified volume button and a mute button, according to leaked CAD images shared in a video on the Chinese version of TikTok and posted to Twitter by ShrimpApplePro.

Instead of separate buttons for volume up and volume down, the iPhone 15 Pro models are expected to have a single elongated button for adjusting the volume up or down. Meanwhile, the mute switch that has been present since the original iPhone in 2007 is expected to become a mute button that can be pressed to turn the iPhone's ringer on or off.

Both the volume and mute buttons are rumored to have a solid-state design. Instead of physically moving, the buttons would provide haptic feedback from two additional Taptic Engines inside the iPhone to simulate the feeling of movement, similar to the Home button on the latest iPhone SE or the Force Touch trackpad on modern MacBooks.

The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models are still expected to have two physical volume buttons and a mute switch, as other CAD images in the video show. Apple should announce the entire iPhone 15 series in September as usual.

In related news, tech reviewer Sonny Dickson has provided an additional look at alleged front glass panels for the iPhone 15 series. Like the original leak, the images show that the Pro models will have thinner bezels around the display, and that the Dynamic Island will be expanded to the standard iPhone 15 models.

Samsung today kicked off a special "Discover Samsung" event, which will be a week-long savings event focusing on Samsung monitors, smartphones, TVs, appliances, and more. While some deals will stick around the entire week (through March 26), others will refresh every day.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Samsung. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

The highlight of the new sale is Samsung's 32-inch Smart Monitor M8 for $449.99 in Warm White, down from $699.99. Samsung's Smart Monitor M8 has a design very similar to the new 24-inch iMacs, and it uses USB-C charging connectivity and includes AirPlay support.

Only the Warm White color is available at this low price, while all others are seeing a $549.99 price tag. Compared to past sales, this is the best price we've seen on the Smart Monitor M8 so far in 2023, and is an overall second-best price when looking at sales from the 2022 holiday season.

The M8 houses a 4K UHD flat LCD panel providing 400 nits of brightness, a 60Hz refresh rate, HDR support, and adaptive picture technology that automatically adjusts display brightness and color temperature for viewing comfort. The M8 chassis is 11.4mm thin, which is 0.1mm thinner than Apple's iMac, and it includes a flat back, thin bezels, and a height adjustable stand with tilt functionality.

Integrated into the display is Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2 wireless connectivity, one micro HDMI port, and two USB-C ports one of which offers 65W of charging output for a phone and notebook.

Besides the Smart Monitor M8, we've rounded up a few other items you can get on sale during the Discover Samsung event. These include savings on memory, monitors, and TVs, and remember that you can check back every day for fresh deals. One of the best deals in this sale is Samsung's curved 55-inch Odyssey Ark 4K monitor for $1,999.99 ($1,000 off).

• 2TB Portable SSD - $139.99, down from $179.99
• 32-inch ViewFinity S6 Monitor - $199.99, down from $349.99
• 27-inch ViewFinity S8 Monitor - $449.99, down from $599.99
• 27-inch Odyssey G6 Curved Monitor - $549.99, down from $699.99
• 49-inch Odyssey G9 Curved Monitor - $999.99, down from $1,499.99
• 55-inch Odyssey Ark 4K UHD Curved Monitor - $1,999.99, down from $2,999.99
• 85-inch QLED 4K Smart TV - $1,699.99, down from $3,299.99

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.

Microsoft is reportedly preparing to launch an Xbox games store on the iPhone as early as next year, but the plans depend on multiple regulatory measures.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Microsoft's gaming chief Phil Spencer said the app's launch hinges on regulators approving the company's acquisition of video game maker Activision Blizzard, as this would give Microsoft a wider portfolio of mobile games. Second, the app would only be able to launch if the EU's Digital Markets Act and other regulations allowing for alternative app stores on iOS are enforced.

"We want to be in a position to offer Xbox and content from both us and our third-party partners across any screen where somebody would want to play," Spencer told the Financial Times. "Today, we can't do that on mobile devices, but we want to build towards a world that we think will be coming where those devices are opened up."

In December, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported that Apple was preparing to allow alternative app stores on the iPhone in order to comply with the Digital Markets Act, which is expected to come into effect in March 2024. Gurman said Apple was aiming to roll out the changes with an iOS 17 update next year for iPhone users in Europe only. This means the Xbox games store would not be available in the U.S., at least initially.

Xbox already offers a cloud gaming service on the iPhone, but games are only playable via the web instead of the App Store. Apple has faced increasing regulatory scrutiny over its tight control of the App Store, leading the company to make changes in some countries, such as allowing alternative payments in South Korea.

Amazon today has multiple discounts on Apple's 2022 iPad, offering the first markdowns on these tablets since early February. Below you'll find record low deals across both Wi-Fi and cellular models of the 10.9-inch iPad, as well as a new sale on AirTag.

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.

iPad

Starting with the 64GB Wi-Fi iPad, you can get this tablet for $399.00, down from $449.00. It's available in Silver at this price, which is the best price we've ever tracked on the 2022 iPad.

The 256GB Wi-Fi iPad is on sale for $549.00, down from $599.00, and it's available in every color except Silver. Just like the 64GB option, this is a match of the all-time low price on this version of the 2022 iPad.

Moving to the cellular options, you'll find the 64GB cellular iPad on sale for $549.00, down from $599.00. Amazon has all four colors of this iPad on sale at this best-ever price, and they're all in stock and ready to ship out today directly from the retailer.

Then there is the 256GB cellular iPad, which Amazon has for $699.00, down from $749.00. This one is also available in all four color options, and has delivery date estimates of March 22 for most places in the United States.

AirTag

Lastly, we're tracking a fresh deal on Apple's AirTag tracker, with the 4-Pack available for $89.99 on Amazon, down from $99.00. This isn't an all-time low price on the accessory, but it has been months since we've seen any discount on any version of the AirTag, so those who have been waiting for a deal can save a bit of money this week.

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.

Apple will open its flagship India retail store in Mumbai next month, after several delays, soon to be followed by another store in New Delhi, reports The Economic Times, citing industry executives.

Located in the Jio World Drive mall and covering 22,000 square feet, the Mumbai store will be a retail landmark similar to Apple stores in Los Angeles, New York, Beijing, and Singapore.

The second, smaller 10,000 to 12,000-square-feet store in New Delhi's Select CityWalk mall is expected to launch in April-June, potentially just a few days after the Mumbai store opening, according to the paper's sources. Apple stared hiring for the stores in January.

"Fitouts are completed for both the stores," the person said. "In fact, the fitout was completed for the Delhi store ahead of the Mumbai one."

"But since Mumbai will be the flagship Apple Store in India, it will open first next month. The Delhi one will open soon after," said the industry executive.

India has become more important at Apple over the last few years due to the growing demand for Apple products. In 2020 Apple opened its online store in India, offering Indian customers a direct way to purchase products directly from Apple without having to go through an authorized premium reseller.

While most people in India use Android devices, it is the second largest smartphone market in the world and Apple has the potential to make inroads with more affordable product options.

Apple has started producing some iPhone models in India, including the iPhone 14, as it looks to diversify beyond China. Apple supplier Foxconn has invested $500 million in the country to boost production capabilities.

India has been one of the best-performing markets for Apple over the last few years. In the quarter ended December, the company achieved record overall sales in the country. India is also set to be its own sales region within Apple, which will give the country "increased prominence" within the company, according to one report.

Apple's project to design its first HomePod with a screen has been pushed back until next year at the earliest, as part of a series of cost-cutting measures and belt-tightening efforts to make its operations more efficient.

In his latest Power On newsletter, well-connected Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman suggested that delaying the device will allow Apple to allocate its research and development budget to more pressing projects, like mixed reality headsets.

The move is part of a strategy to contain costs that should enable the company to maintain an appearance of stability in an unstable economy and avoid the swingeing cutbacks and layoffs that have befallen other tech companies including Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, and Google.

Other moves to avoid layoffs are said to include delaying bonuses for corporate teams, pausing hiring on some teams, reining in budgets, and leaving roles open rather than filling them when people leave their positions.

The revised timing for the rumored HomePod product tallies with Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo's recent prediction that a redesigned HomePod with a 7-inch display will arrive in the first half of 2024.

In 2021, Gurman was first to suggest that Apple is working on new HomePods with displays and cameras. In the long term, Apple is believed to be rethinking its smart home strategy and is reportedly working on a combined Apple TV and HomePod device, as well as a HomePod with a screen mounted on a robotic arm.

Apple's high-end iPhone models have started at $999 in the U.S. since they first launched back in 2017 with the iPhone X, but could this finally be the year that starting price sees an increase?

This week also saw some more rumors about Apple's upcoming headset and the company's explorations in the booming AI industry as well as the release of a new round of beta updates, so read on for all the details on these stories and more!

iPhone 15 Pro Predicted to See First Price Increase Since iPhone X

Apple's next-generation iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models could be more expensive than existing models.

In a research note this week, technology analyst Jeff Pu said he believes the iPhone 15 Pro models will see a price increase due to several rumored hardware upgrades, including a titanium frame, solid-state buttons with additional Taptic Engines for haptic feedback, camera improvements, increased RAM, a USB-C port, and more.

The higher-end/Pro tier of the iPhone has started at $999 since the iPhone X was released in 2017.

Report: Apple CEO Tim Cook Ordered Headset Launch Despite Designers Wanting to Wait for AR Glasses

Apple is widely expected to announce its long-rumored AR/VR headset at WWDC this June following several years of development.

The Financial Times this week reported that Apple CEO Tim Cook approved the headset's launch despite some of the company's designers preferring to wait for a lightweight pair of AR glasses. The current headset is expected to be a bulkier device with a head strap.

Apple Seeds Fourth Betas of iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4

The fourth beta of iOS 16.4 was seeded to developers and public beta testers this week. Apple says the update will be released in the spring.

iOS 16.4 includes a handful of new features and changes, including support for push notifications from websites, Podcasts app improvements, new emoji options, and a new beta software installation method that will make it harder to get the iOS 17 developer beta for free.

Refurbished iPhone 13 Models Now Available From Apple's U.S. Store

Apple this week started selling refurbished iPhone 13 models through its online store in the U.S. for the first time since the devices launched in 2021.

All four models are listed on the refurbished store, including the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max, but availability fluctuates over time. The devices are discounted by over 15% compared to Apple's original brand new pricing.

iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus in Yellow Launched This Week

Yes, it's just a new color, but the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus are now available in a Yellow finish following Apple's announcement earlier this month.

The launch of a new color brings some renewed attention to the iPhone 14 series, which launched in September 2022. There are no other changes to the devices beyond the Yellow finish, so consider waiting for the iPhone 15 later this year if you are interested in new features.

Apple Engineers Reportedly Exploring ChatGPT-Like AI Despite Siri Design Flaws

Amid the rise of AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT, a report this week from The New York Times claims that Apple engineers have been testing language-generation concepts recently.

A separate report from 9to5Mac this week also highlighted Siri-related language-generation code in tvOS for the Apple TV, but it's unclear exactly what Apple's plans are for this quickly-evolving technology.

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!

A first-generation iPhone still sealed inside its box sold for $54,904 at auction, which is more than $54,000 over the original $599 price tag of the device when it was released in 2007.

The original iPhone was put up for sale by RR Auction on behalf of a former Apple employee who purchased it back when it first came out. Back in February, an original, sealed iPhone sold for over $63,000, which actually marked a sales record for a first-generation iPhone.

Unopened first generation original Apple iPhone, Model A1203, Order MA712LL/A (8GB). The box features a life-size image of the iPhone with twelve icons on the screen, indicating that it is from the earliest production (2007); a 13th icon, for iTunes, came later in the year. In brand new, factory-sealed condition. Accompanied by an AT&T bag and leaflet regarding rate plans and iPhone activation. The consignor notes that he purchased this phone upon its release in 2007, but also received one through work as an Apple employee; this spare was therefore never opened.

Other unopened original iPhones sold for $35,000 and $39,000 in 2022, so prices have been trending upward.

RR Auction also sold a an "undiscovered" Apple-1 computer for an unspecified sum, with other Apple devices and memorabilia also fetching high prices. A Macintosh Plus from Del Yocam sold for $26,590, while a Macintosh 128K prototype sold for $16,500 and an Apple Lisa sold for $81,251.

An iPhone 11 signed by Apple CEO Tim Cook sold for nearly $4,000, technical instructions annotated by Steve Jobs went for $12,500, and a Steve Jobs business card sold for $6,188.

On this week's episode of The MacRumors Show, we discuss some of the key health and fitness features rumored to come to future AirPods models.

Last week, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported that Apple is working on new hearing health features for the AirPods. This comes after years of rumors about new health and fitness capabilities on the device, with reports suggesting that Apple is exploring adding respiratory rate monitoring, enhanced motion sensors for activity tracking, and ambient light sensors for biometrics, as well as body temperature, posture, and hearing aid features. We talk through some of the applications for these abilities and how they might emerge.

We also look at some of the week's biggest news, including the potential price hike for the iPhone 15 Pro models, mixed-reality headset components leak, and Apple's tentative work on generative AI.

Listen to The MacRumors Show in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Pocket Casts, Castro, Google Podcasts, or your preferred podcasts app. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your podcast player. Watch a video version of the show on the MacRumors YouTube channel.

If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up for our discussion about Apple's Yellow iPhone 14 and ‌iPhone 14‌ Plus, as well as the range of new Apple Watch bands and AirTag accessories, with TikTok star Frank McShan.

Subscribe to ‌The MacRumors Show‌ for more episodes, where we discuss some of the topical news breaking here on MacRumors, often joined by exciting guests like David Lewis, Andru Edwards, Tyler Stalman, Jon Prosser, Sam Kohl, Quinn Nelson, John Gruber, Federico Viticci, Sara Dietschy, Luke Miani, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, iJustine, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo, Jon Rettinger, Rene Ritchie, and Mark Gurman. You can also head over to The MacRumors Show forum thread to engage with us directly. Remember to rate and review the show, and let us know what subjects you would like the podcast to cover in the future.

With the launch of iOS 16.3 and macOS 13.2 Ventura, Apple added Security Keys for the Apple ID, offering a more robust way to protect your Apple account and everything associated with your Apple account.

A Security Key is a physical device that works with two-factor authentication. Instead of using a code generated by a secondary Apple device for authentication, when you log into your ‌Apple ID‌ on another device after setting up Security Keys, you need to authenticate through a physical key that's actually plugged in to your device.

You can use any FIDO Certified security key to activate the feature, and Apple recommends the YubiKey 5C NFC and the YubiKey 5Ci, two devices sold by Yubico. Yubico sent me a pair of its security keys so that I could try them out with Apple's Security Key function.

The YubiKey 5Ci has a USB-C connector and a Lightning connector so that it can be plugged into iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other devices that use these connectors, while the YubiKey 5C NFC has a USB-C connector and the ability to interface with NFC-enabled devices.

With Apple eliminating the Lightning port in the iPhone this year and because I don't own any devices without NFC, I opted for the YubiKey 5C NFC for futureproofing, but if you plan to have an iPhone or an iPad with a Lightning port for an extended period of time, the 5Ci might be the better option if you're interested in using Security Keys.

Security Keys can be set up on the iPhone, ‌iPad‌, or Mac. Note that whatever security key product you pick, you have to have two, not just one. Apple requires dual security keys for redundancy purposes, and Yubico recommends a pair as well. The reason for this is because if you lose your physical security key, if you don't have another in a safe place, you're going to lose access to your ‌Apple ID‌. You're going to want to store the Security Keys in two separate locations.

On an iOS device or Mac, Security Keys can be enabled through the Password and Security section of the Settings app. Before you can add a Security Key, you need to sign out of all inactive devices, which includes devices that you have not used in the last 90 days. Older devices won't support Security Keys at all.

I had to go through this process, and I want to note that it didn't quite work properly (which is not the YubiKey's fault). Apple's process signed me out of the unsupported devices or devices I had not logged into, but then the Security Keys setup would not progress. I swapped over to the Mac to continue, and had better luck.

The setup process required me to connect the security key, which I did using USB-C, and then I had to press on the key to get the Mac to recognize it. Apple had me give it a name, and then repeat the process to add the second security key.

After that, I was instructed to review my list of active devices and choose whether to sign out of any of them. There was an option to stay signed in to everything, which is what I selected. Following the setup process, Apple instructed me to store the keys separately and in a safe place, and clarified that I can add additional keys in the future.

There's also a single line on the bottom of the setup screen that makes it clear Apple has no way to help access an account that is tied to a security key if both keys are lost, a warning that should probably be in bolder text. Apple sends an email about the Security Key setup process, and in both Mac and iOS settings, I can view my connected Security Keys and remove them.

When I attempt to sign into my ‌Apple ID‌ on a device on the Mac, I'm instructed to insert and activate one of my security keys. This process requires inserting the key into a USB-C port and pressing on it to activate it. I receive notifications across all of my devices when a login attempt is made.

On an iPhone, the login process is similar, but the YubiKey needs to be held near the iPhone's NFC reader (the top of the device) and activated for authentication. In general, it's a simple process on every Mac, iPhone, and ‌iPad‌ I've tested it with. All of my devices are running iOS 16.3 or later or macOS Ventura 13.2 or later, and they all support USB-C or NFC. On devices that are not updated or do not support USB-C/NFC, the process might not be as seamless and could require adapters.

My major worry activating Security Keys is that I'm going to lose one. YubiKeys and other security keys are small, unobtrusive, and easy to lose since they're designed to be kept secret and hidden. The YubiKey has a hole at the top for a keyring, so I'm going to add a keyring to one that will remain in a secure place in my office, and the second will go somewhere safer.

Two-factor authentication with a physical security key is more secure than authentication with a digital code, according to Apple, but it's a little riskier. I can't track my YubiKeys if they're lost, but I can track down all my secondary Apple devices if I should lose one and need it for a code. That said, the authentication process is super easy, and it's even quicker than getting a code from another Apple device.

YubiKeys don't need to charge and seem to be durable so far based on anecdotal reports from YubiKey users, which is good because I'm also worried about breaking one. Ultimately, I think I may add a third key to my account just for another layer of protection, since there's little chance I'll lose or break three at one time. There's an IP68 water resistance rating so it can hold up to liquid immersion, and it has a storage temperature of -4 °F to 185 °F.

You won't need an app to use a YubiKey for some services (like with an ‌Apple ID‌ or Twitter), but for others, the Yubico Authenticator will need to be installed. The Yubico Authenticator is like Google Authenticator or Authy, generating a code that uses the YubiKey.

I was not able to set up the YubiKey with Instagram because Instagram's authentication process plus the Yubico app simply would not work. The app would not recognize the key, so be aware that there may be some troubleshooting involved. There are limitations with the YubiKey in terms of supported accounts. It can store up to 25 FIDO2 credentials for password-free logins, two OTP credentials, 32 OATH credentials for one-time passwords (when paired with the Yubico Authenticator), and an unlimited number of U2F credentials. If you have more than 32 accounts where you need one-time passwords, the YubiKey might not be the best solution because it only works with 32 logins.

In addition to an ‌Apple ID‌, the YubiKey works with other websites and services with two-factor authentication. Google, Microsoft, 1Password, LastPass, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, bitcoin wallets, government accounts, and a bunch more are all supported.

Bottom Line

If you're aiming to better secure your ‌Apple ID‌ through physical authentication using the Security Keys feature, the YubiKey series is worth looking at. It offers better protection than you'll get through digital codes, but it is expensive and there are some limitations to be aware of if you want a multi-purpose physical authenticator.

How to Buy

The YubiKey 5C NFC that I used in this review is priced at $55, and it can be purchased from the Yubico website. The YubiKey 5Ci with Lightning connector and USB-C connector is priced at $75.

This week saw the arrival of all-time low prices on a selection of Apple products including the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro, second generation Apple Watch SE, and AirPods Pro 2. Additionally, we're tracking a few accessory sales celebrating Saint Patrick's Day at places like ZAGG, Casely, Belkin, and more.

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.

Saint Patrick's Day Sales

Today is Saint Patrick's Day, and a few Apple-related accessory companies have introduced discounts and offers to celebrate the holiday. We covered a few of these earlier in the week, including ZAGG and Mophie's sitewide discount, and listed some others below.

In regards to Woot's sale, shoppers should remember that the company has the Beats Fit Pro for the all-time low price of $144.95 this weekend, down from $199.95. It's available in the black, white, sage gray, and stone purple color options, and it is in brand new condition.

• ZAGG/Mophie - Get 25 percent off sitewide
• Nomad - Get up to 90 percent off overstock items
• Woot - Get up to 80% off Apple chargers, cases, and more
• Belkin - Buy one, get one 30 percent off
• Casely - 25 percent off best-selling iPhone cases
• Hyper - Get up to 50 percent off hubs, chargers, and accessories with code LUCKY50
• JBL - Get up to 50 percent off Bluetooth speakers and more
• Moment - Get up to 67 percent off photography accessories

AirPods

• What's the deal? Take up to $49 off AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 2
• Where can I get it? Amazon
• Where can I find the original deal? Right here

The year's best price on the AirPods Pro 2 returned to Amazon this week, available for $199.99, down from $249.00. We've seen a few other retailers match this price in 2023, but as of this week only Amazon is offering this sale on the earbuds. Additionally, we're tracking a solid deal on the AirPods 2 at $99.00 on Amazon this week.

2023 MacBook Pro

• What's the deal? Take up to $200 off the new MacBook Pro
• Where can I get it? Amazon
• Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Amazon kicked off the week with record low discounts on Apple's new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro notebooks. You'll find up to $200 off these computers on Amazon, and B&H Photo is matching a few of the sales.

Apple Watch SE

• What's the deal? Take $30 off the Apple Watch SE (gen 2)
• Where can I get it? Amazon
• Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Moving to wearables, Amazon knocked the price of the second generation Apple Watch SE back down to its all-time low of $219.99, from $249.00. The 40mm model is still available in Midnight and Starlight Aluminum at this price.

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.

While year-over-year iPhone upgrades are not always groundbreaking, new features can begin to stack up over multiple generations. For example, the iPhone 15 Pro will be a notable upgrade for those who still have a three-year-old iPhone 12 Pro.

If you are still using an iPhone 12 Pro and are considering upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro when it launches later this year, we have put together a list of features to expect below. The list includes major changes introduced with the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro, as well as new features rumored for the iPhone 15 Pro.

• A17 chip vs. A14 chip: The 5nm-based A16 chip in the iPhone 14 Pro is already up to 36% faster than the A14 chip in the iPhone 12 Pro, according to the Geekbench 6 benchmark. The iPhone 15 Pro will be equipped with the A17 chip, which is expected to be manufactured based on TSMC's latest 3nm process for even faster performance and improved power efficiency over the previous generation.
• USB-C port: With the iPhone 15 Pro, Apple is finally expected to switch from Lightning to a USB-C port. This change will provide a more universal charging standard and allow for faster wired data transfer speeds.
• Titanium frame: Like the Apple Watch Ultra, the iPhone 15 Pro is rumored to have a titanium frame instead of stainless steel. The back glass and display bezels are also expected to have slightly curved edges.
• Dynamic Island: With the iPhone 14 Pro, Apple replaced the notch with the Dynamic Island, a pill-shaped area surrounding the Face ID sensors and front camera. The Dynamic Island displays system alerts and integrates with iOS 16's Live Activities feature to show live NBA scores, the status of an Uber ride, and more.
• Always On display option: With the iPhone 14 Pro, Apple introduced an always-on display option that dims the entire Lock Screen, but still shows the time and date, widgets, wallpaper, and notifications. Once you raise the iPhone, tap the screen, or press the side button, the display returns to normal brightness.
• Brighter display: The iPhone 14 Pro's display is up to 200 nits brighter indoors compared to the iPhone 12 Pro, and offers up to 2,000 nits of brightness outdoors. The increased brightness should carry over to the iPhone 15 Pro.
• ProMotion: Introduced on the iPhone 13 Pro, ProMotion allows for a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother appearing content and scrolling.
• Thinner bezels: Similar to the Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 8, the iPhone 15 Pro is rumored to have even thinner bezels around the display.
• Longer battery life: Already, the iPhone 14 Pro lasts up to 23 hours for offline video playback, compared to 17 hours for the iPhone 12 Pro. With components like the A17 chip and the LiDAR Scanner expected to be more power efficient this year, the iPhone 15 Pro could have even longer battery life.
• Numerous camera improvements: iPhone 12 Pro users upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro will get access to a wide range of camera upgrades, including a 48-megapixel Wide lens, an upgraded front camera with autofocus, increased optical zoom, sensor-shift image stabilization, Macro mode, Cinematic mode, Action mode, ProRes video recording, Photographic Styles, and more.
• eSIM only in U.S.: Apple removed the physical SIM card tray from all iPhone 14 models sold in the U.S., meaning the devices work with eSIMs only. The devices are still compatible with physical SIM cards in other countries.
• Increased RAM: iPhone 15 Pro models are rumored to be equipped with an increased 8GB of RAM, compared to 6GB for the iPhone 12 Pro. Increased RAM can benefit multitasking on the iPhone by allowing more apps to be open in the background simultaneously without reloading.
• Wi-Fi 6E: iPhone 15 Pro models are rumored to support Wi-Fi 6E, which supports the 6GHz band for faster wireless speeds, lower latency, and less signal interference compared to standard Wi-Fi 6.
• Emergency SOS via Satellite: iPhone 14 models can connect to Globalstar satellites, enabling users to send text messages to emergency services when outside the range of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. The service is free for two years after activation, and is currently available in the U.S., Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, and the U.K., with more countries to follow later this month.
• Crash Detection: New for the iPhone 14 series, Crash Detection is designed to detect severe car crashes and contact emergency services via Emergency SOS if the user does not respond. The feature is enabled by default.
• 5G improvements: iPhone 15 Pro models are expected to be equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X70 modem for improved 5G performance.
• 1TB option: Starting with the iPhone 13 Pro, Apple introduced a 1TB storage option.

Apple will likely unveil the iPhone 15 series in September as usual, and the devices could have additional features that have yet to be rumored.