One of the big concerns with using Large Language Model (LLM) AI comes down to security. Using LLMs on the Cloud often involves putting your sensitive data onto a cloud server where it can be collected and used without your knowledge or permission. This has been one of the major concerns over Microsoft's Recall feature coming with Copilot+ in the next few weeks.

Apple finally confirmed its AI plans during the WWDC 2024 keynote on Monday. Apple Intelligence is the company's version of AI, which comes with many of the same features as other AI programs like generative text, images, customizable AI emojis, text and email summaries, and even the ability to leverage your personal information to generate the best responses. 

While Apple Intelligence mostly functions on-device, it can query cloud LLM models for increased computing power. During the WWDC keynote, Apple's Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi confirmed, "You should not have to hand over all the details of your life to be warehoused and analyzed in someone's AI cloud. With Apple Intelligence, powerful intelligence goes hand in hand with powerful privacy."

So while Apple is leaning heavily into on-device AI for security, your data can still end up on an Apple AI cloud.

Apple Intelligence queries the cloud, but doesn't store data

Apple stated that, while Apple Intelligence could send some of your data to their AI cloud, your data will not be available to the company. Instead, Apple Intelligence will determine if your query can be handled on the device, and if not it sends only the necessary information to the Private Cloud Compute servers. These servers are running on Apple Silicon controlled by Apple and independently reviewed.

As Federighi noted, "Your data is never stored or made accessible to Apple, it's used exclusively to fulfill your request, and just like your iPhone, independent experts can inspect the code that runs on these servers to verify this privacy promise."

Apple has pushed its privacy and security as an advantage for years now and this is a common concern with AI, but is this enough?

Is Apple Intelligence the same as Microsoft Recall?

Apple's description of how Apple Intelligence works does feel safer than Microsoft's debut of Recall. But that could just be better marketing. After all, Apple is well known for making people feel comfortable with technological advances by couching it in different terms. The company frequently refers to Artificial Intelligence as "Machine Learning" and even strayed away from Augmented Reality (AR) by calling the Apple Vision Pro a "Spatial Computing" device.

One of the main things that concerned Windows enthusiasts about Microsoft Copilot+'s Recall features was the constant snapshots the AI would take of any device. After all, even if those snapshots are never uploaded to the cloud by Microsoft, malicious users who gain access to your PC could in theory obtain them. The way Apple has positioned the Apple Intelligence features seems to skirt around the idea that the AI is constantly screenshotting your devices.

Opening the WWDC keynote section on Apple Intelligence, Apple CEO Tim Cook iterated all of the things the company desired from any AI integration, "It has to be powerful enough to help with the things that matter most to you. It has to be intuitive and easy to use. It has to be deeply integrated into your product experiences. Most importantly, it has to understand you and be grounded in your personal context, like your routine, your relationships, your communications and more."

If Apple Intelligence needs to understand you and be grounded in your personal context, then it needs to record or snapshot your device. Apple's implementation could be much more secure, but regardless, the information has to be stored for your Mac, iPad, or iPhone to benefit from it and share it across your devices. It's hard to see this as a night and day difference from the issue that caused Microsoft to announce changes to its Recall feature just hours before the Apple keynote. 

What should Apple Intelligence learn from Recall?

Microsoft has already detailed the changes to Recall that will be in effect before the system goes to launch.

• Windows Recall will now require a user to opt-in to the service, meaning the service will be disabled by default.
• Recall will now require Windows Hello to be active to use the feature. Windows Hello will be used to provide proof of presence for users to view and search through saved timelines.
• Windows Hello enhanced sign-in security (ESS) will also be used to bypass "just in time" decryption of snapshots and the search index database, to further ensure that Recall snapshots are only accessible when the user provides authentication.

Apple could easily add all of these features to Apple Intelligence, which would help give users peace of mind. After all, Apple has integrated FaceID into all of its product line which could replace Windows Hello.

Apple does still have time before Apple Intelligence goes to launch. While the feature will be available in beta over the summer, it won't roll out fully to users until iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 are released this fall.

More from Laptop Mag

• Apple WWDC 2024 LIVE: Apple Intelligence, iOS 18, Siri, OpenAI, and more
• A future Xbox handheld could beat Sony PlayStation Portal rival in one key area
• 'People have to see it to believe it': We asked an expert about AR laptops and the challenges in this booming market

macOS Sonoma’s huge reveal at Apple’s WWDC earlier this year was big news for Apple fans the world over. Since then, Apple’s latest macOS update has been impressing users during its beta release with a host of new features and improvements that sharpen and refine the Mac experience like never before.

However, today marks the day that macOS Sonoma steps out of beta and into full release – meaning we can all finally get to grips with macOS 14 and start to see what all the fuss is about when it comes to Apple’s upgraded operating system.

To help you on your way we’ve put together a short guide on how best to prepare for and how to install the latest version of macOS on your Mac device. But before we dive into the install there are a few things we should keep in mind: compatibility and preparation.

macOS 14 Sonoma: Compatibility and system requirements 

If you want to upgrade to macOS 14 Sonoma you’ll have to be working from a supported device and model compatible with today’s update. The following is the official list of Macs capable of playing host to Sonoma when it launches later today: 

• MacBook Pro (2018 and later)
• MacBook Air (2018 and later)
• Mac Pro (2019 and later)
• Mac Mini (2018 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• iMac (2019 and later)
• iMac Pro (2017)

macOS 14 Sonoma: How to prepare for the update 

We may not know the exact time of day when Apple makes the macOS 14 Sonoma update available to all, but we do know that you can prepare in advance while you wait to make sure everything goes smoothly and you’re good to go the moment it drops. 

Step 1: Back up your Mac

Today’s Sonoma release will be a stable build, meaning it’s highly unlikely to cause any large-scale issues on install. That being said, it’s always wise to perform a backup in advance just in case something doesn’t go to plan. If you need help performing this task, fear not. Check out our guides to backing up your Mac below and we can move onto our next step. 

• How to Back Up Your Mac With Time Machine
• How to Backup Your Mac: Why I Use 3 Different Solutions

Step 2: Clear some space

Avoid the hassle of last minute decluttering and make sure your Mac has enough space to download and install macOS 14 Sonoma in advance. Keeping the Sonoma beta release in mind, today’s update could be up to 12GB in size. However, you’ll also need additional space in order to perform the install which means a minimum of 24-25GB of space could be required.

Once again, if you need some direction on how to quickly and easily clear up some space on your Mac you can follow our how-to guide below:

• How to free up space on a MacBook

macOS 14 Sonoma: How to install macOS 14 Sonoma 

If you’re backed up and have space free to receive the update, we’re now finally good to go. Once the macOS 14 Sonoma update becomes available you’ll be able to initiate the upgrade through Software Update. Let’s go through the process of doing so now: 

• Step 1: Click on the Apple menu.
• Step 2: Choose System Settings.
• Step 3: On the left-hand side of the System Settings window, click General.
• Step 4: On the right-hand side of the window, select Software Update.

From here you will be able to see the latest update currently available for your Mac. Keep an eye out for macOS Sonoma 14.0 appearing in this section. Once the update is released you’ll be able to click the button that says “Upgrade Now” to kick-start the process.

Follow all on screen instructions from here and enjoy macOS 14 Sonoma once the upgrade is complete!

Note: Can’t see Software Update? Use the Spotlight search in the top right corner of the screen to search for “Software Update,” and select it from the results.

If you still can’t find the app, you may be on an older version of macOS without this feature. In this instance, you’ll need to use the App Store instead. Simply open the App Store and click Updates or search for Sonoma to access the update directly.

Apple’s latest OS updates have just dropped for all compatible iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch devices! The full release of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and watchOS 10 has been much anticipated since their unveiling at this years WWDC, and we want to make sure you’re up to date on what to do in advance, and how to download it on each device. 

iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10: What time will the update be available?

Today’s updates are now live! Apple released its new updates into the wild at around 10 a.m. PDT for those on the west coast of the United States, or 1 p.m. EDT for those on the east coast.

Here’s the list of when the latest iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch updates went live in their respective time zones:

• United States and Canada: 10 a.m. PDT, 11 a.m. MDT, 1 p.m. EDT
• Brazil: 2 p.m. BRT
• United Kingdom: 6 p.m. BST
• Europe: 7 p.m. CEST,
• Russia: 8 p.m. MSK
• India: 10:30 p.m. IST
• China: Tuesday, Sept. 19, 1 a.m. CST
• Australia: Tuesday, Sept. 19, 1 a.m. AWST, 3 a.m. AEST
• Japan: Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2 a.m. JST
• New Zealand: Tuesday, Sept. 19, 5 a.m. NZST

iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10: Is my device compatible?

Not all devices will be able to make the jump to Apple’s next wave of operating system updates. So be sure to double-check that your device is one of those capable of downloading the update in advance.

Here's Apple's official list of supported devices for the iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and watchOS 10 updates:

iOS 17 compatible iPhones

• iPhone 14 (iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max)
• iPhone 13 (iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max)
• iPhone 12 (iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max)
• iPhone 11 (iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max)
• iPhone XS (iPhone XS Max)
• iPhone XR
• iPhone SE (2nd Generation or later)

iPadOS 17 compatible iPads

• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd Generation and later)
• iPad Pro 10.5-inch
• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st Generation and later)
• iPad Air (3rd Generation and later)
• iPad (6th Generation and later)
• iPad mini (5th Generation and later)

watchOS 10 compatible Apple Watches

• Apple Watch Series 4
• Apple Watch Series 5
• Apple Watch Series 6
• Apple Watch Series 7
• Apple Watch Series 8
• Apple Watch Ultra
• Apple Watch SE

iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10: Before you update

Before any major software update, Apple recommends you backup the data on your device using iCloud or your computer. If you don’t know how to do this, follow our guides on how to backup your iPhone or how to backup your iPad to get up to speed.

Once you’ve made a backup, you’ll need to make sure you have a charger to hand. Apple recommends leaving your device on charge during the update process to avoid any issues mid-install. You’ll also need to make sure you’re connected to the internet (preferably by Wi-Fi), to make sure your download is as stable as possible.

Finally, you’ll need to free up enough space to perform the download and install the latest OS update. Typically, iPhone and iPad OS updates can be up to 6GB in size, so ensure there’s plenty of room on your device to handle that download. Apple Watch updates tend to be smaller in size, usually requiring between 2GB and 3GB of storage.

How to update iPhone/iPad to iOS/iPadOS 17

Updating your iPhone or iPad to the latest version is straightforward and easy to do. After checking your device is compatible, follow these simple steps to get the latest OS update.

Step 1: On your device, open “Settings.”

Step 2: Tap “General,” then “Software Update.”

Step 3: Tap on the software update you wish to download (or the option saying “Upgrade to iOS 17/iPadOS 17”).

Step 4: Tap on “Install Now” or “Download and Install,” before following the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

How to update Apple Watch to watchOS 10

Apple Watches running watchOS 6 or later can install the new update by pretty much the exact same procedure. Just make sure that your watch is connected to Wi-Fi and follow these simple steps to download the watchOS 10 update:

Step 1: On your Apple Watch, open “Settings.”

Step 2: Tap “General,” and then “Software Update.”

Step 3: Install the pending software update and follow all on-screen instructions.

However, if your Apple Watch has been shy about updating for some time and you’re running a version of the OS below watchOS 6, you’ll need to use your iPhone to perform the update. In this instance, you need your iPhone to be running the latest iOS version first. After you’ve done that perform the following steps:

Step 1: Open the “Apple Watch” app on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap “My Watch,” “General,” and finally “Software Update.”

Step 3: Download the pending update and wait for the progress wheel to appear. This could take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour to complete.

Apple's Wonderlust event was big news, but the brand's new iPhones are only half the story. iOS 17 is knocking on our door and it’s the secret ingredient to making Apple’s devices both new and old some of the best smartphones on the market for another calendar year.

The event saw the unveiling of the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus making the dynamic island their own, not to mention the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max showcasing incredible camera and gaming technology. All of which will be handled and delivered to full effect by the iPhone’s real key feature – iOS 17.

Apple didn’t go too deep into iOS 17 during the Wonderlust keynote, but we did get a healthy look at what to expect from it back in July’s WWDC 2023 showcase. However, today iOS 17 has finally released worldwide, along with who can, when you can, and how you can download it.

iOS 17 release date

Apple has confirmed the date! Eligible iPhone owners will be able to download the iOS 17 update from today, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023!

Looking at Apple’s past history here’s what time iOS 17 will go live on the day around the world:

• United States: 10 a.m. PDT; 11 a.m. MDT; 12 noon CDT; 1 p.m. EDT
• Canada: 10 a.m. PDT, 1 p.m. EDT, 2 p.m. ADT
• United Kingdom: 6 p.m. BST
• Europe: 7 p.m. CEST, 8 p.m. MSK/EEST/TRT
• India: 10:30 p.m. IST

iOS 17: Which devices are supported? 

Not all iPhones will support the upcoming iOS 17 update. Owners of the iPhone X and earlier will unfortunately miss out on the software and its key new features. They will however, still have full access to iOS 16 and any future security updates Apple release for the OS.

Here is the complete list of iPhone models that will support iOS 17:

• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS, XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone SE 2

iOS 17: How to download iOS 17

Thanks to Apple’s easy-to-use UI, nobody should have a problem with getting the new iOS update installed onto their device. The process has been streamlined over the years and is now an effortless task with very few potential hiccups in your way.

That being said, if you’re a little cautious about making the jump come September 18, take some time to back up your iPhone’s data to ease your mind, before diving Settings, and tapping on General to see if the software is available to download in your region.

If it is, you’ll see a banner along the top of this section saying “Software Update Available,” from here you’ll likely see the option to “Upgrade to iOS 17.” Simply follow the instructions from here and you’ll be up and running in no time at all. 

iOS 17: What to expect

There are a ton of new features to talk about when it comes to iOS 17, probably too many to fully keep your attention with an exhaustive list. However, we’ve been covering a number of cool and interesting things making their way to Apple’s update over the past few months and even laid out some guides to help you hit the ground running with each one.

Contact Posters: Contact Posters are a great way of customizing what people see when you call them. The feature lets you control how you’re seen by members of your contact list when you reach out to them. Allowing you to use your most up to date selfie, share an in-joke, or give people a visual reminder of who is on the other end of the line if you have a somewhat generic name. Check out our guide on how to make a Contact Poster in iOS 17.

Live Voicemail: Live Voicemail transcribes your voicemail message in real-time as they happen. This allows you to screen your calls and avoid any potential autodialers, scammers, or marketing calls and to know if an incoming call is urgent and needs your immediate response. It’s a brilliant feature and incredibly easy to set up, find out more with our guide on how to use ‘Live Voicemail’ on iOS 17.

Visual Look Up: Visual Look Up lets you use your phone’s camera to identify real world objects, landmarks, animals, books, art, and more! It can even decipher the strange hieroglyphics on your clothing tags – as we recently discovered while writing our guide on how to use Visual Look Up in iOS 17.

StandBy mode: One of the most stand-out features of iOS 17 is the new StandBy mode. This allows your iPhone to switch into an all-new nightstand-like smart display while charging and placed on its side. This isn’t just for the nightstand either, as it can allow your iPhone to become a digital infopanel for calendar events, appointments, the weather forecast, and even the progress of your latest Uber Eats order while your hands are otherwise occupied. Learn more about this impressive new feature with our guide on how to set up and use StandBy mode in iOS 17.

Personal Voice: Personal Voice is a new accessibility feature for iOS 17 that uses machine learning to generate an artificial version of your voice for text-to-speech purposes. While it sounds creepy and ominous at first, the tool is great for users with speech conditions who may struggle without synthesized assistance. Here’s our guide on how to set up and use Personal Voice in iOS 17.

Check In: We’ve all said it or heard it, “message me when you get home, so I know you’re safe!” However, by the time we make it home, very few of us likely have the energy to pick up our phones, or have simply forgotten all about the concerns of those around us. The Check In feature goes some way streamlining this process by quickly creating a Check In event on your phone as you leave which will automatically let them know you’re home safe and sound once your iPhone recognizes you’re at your destination. Here’s our guide on how to use Check In, in iOS 17.

Outlook

Of course, there's plenty more on offer with iOS 17 than what we've covered here and you can find out more about it on our original coverage of its unveiling during Apple's WWDC 2023 event.

For breaking news and updates on all things Apple and iPhone, follow Laptop Mag on Twitter, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives.

Apple’s MacBook lineup is no slouch. From mighty M2 Max-powered Pro workhorses to affordable Air counterparts, MacBooks offer almost everything you could want from a modern laptop. In fact, there’s only one device that Apple hasn’t directly gone head-to-head with yet — but that’s apparently set to change.

A fresh report from Digitimes claims Apple is currently working on a low-cost MacBook with one goal in mind: conquer the Chromebook. 

A modest MacBook?

Google’s Chromebooks have effectively cornered the educational market — undercutting the competition with their budget-friendly prices while offering a full suite of apps and tools that are ideal for students.

Apple, not typically known for its budget pricing, has instead targeted students with its more affordable MacBook Air lineup. However, even a last-gen, 13.3-inch, M1 MacBook Air will set you back north of $749, making it a hard sell in comparison to a Chromebook’s typical ~$200 price tag.

If Apple truly wants to challenge the Chromebook, it’s going to need to take an entirely different approach. And, according to Digitimes’ sources, that’s exactly what they’re doing.

Apple’s new MacBook will apparently focus on keeping costs to a minimum — making use of less premium materials and components in construction and tailoring its specifications to ensure it remains competitive with the Chromebook in price and performance.

Sources claim that the new MacBook could be released at some point in the second half of 2024, lining it up nicely for a WWDC 2024 unveiling.

Outlook

For a company often criticized for its liberal sprinkling of the Apple tax, it remains to be seen if the Cupertino brand can truly compete with Google’s Chromebooks on price. However, there’s no arguing that an Apple-backed netbook would be an attractive prospect to many.

That being said, with Apple’s history of premium design and quality, how much can this new MacBook lineup afford to truly sacrifice before it no longer feels worthy of the moniker?

For news, rumors, and updates on all things MacBook and Apple, follow Laptop Mag on Twitter, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives.

The Apple Vision Pro reignited mainstream interest in a waning VR/AR landscape when it was announced at this year’s WWDC – up until the reveal of its $3,499 price tag, that is.

However, the Vision Pro’s mighty MSRP is nothing short of an RVSP to the competition as they scramble to undercut Apple’s inflated pricing with more affordable mixed reality headsets of their own.

The latest of which could come via a collaboration between Meta and LG on the Metaverse parent company’s next premium hardware offering – the Meta Quest Pro 4.

An answer to the Vision Pro's biggest con?

According to Korean news site Maekyung, Meta and LG have joined forces to deliver a mixed reality experience similar to that of Apple’s Vision Pro. The new headset, rumored to be the Meta Quest Pro 4 – a confusingly named follow up to 2022’s smash-flop the Meta Quest Pro, is expected to arrive in 2025 and tout a premium, but altogether more palatable $2,000 price tag.

According to Maekyung, Meta’s next Quest Pro model will feature parts from LG Display, LG Innotek, and LG Energy Solution. The Quest Pro’s adoption of LG’s family of tech could see the headset feature industry leading Micro LED displays, iPhone-level camera modules and sensors, and an improvement to battery life and power efficiency.

Outlook

On paper, these hardware improvements go some way to countering the Vision Pro’s micro OLED optics and 12 camera/5 sensor tracking array. The potential battery improvements for the Quest Pro 4 would also see Meta’s device leapfrog Apple’s, with the Vision Pro requiring an external battery pack capable of just 2 hours of uptime.

In contrast, the Meta Quest 2’s internal battery is already capable of lasting 2-3 hours, with the upcoming Meta Quest 3 expected to deliver similar results.

However, anybody seeking to dethrone the Vision Pro as one of the most powerful mixed reality headsets on the market when it arrives next year will have a tough fight on its hands. Apple’s upcoming headset is backed by a dual-chip setup that incorporates a powerful M2 and R1 Apple silicon combo.

While Meta and LG’s partnership could provide some potent, premium components, it remains to be seen if Meta are able to stay on par when it comes to overall performance and power.

For news, rumors, and updates on all things VR and tech, follow Laptop Mag on Twitter, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives.

The iPhone 15 is well on its way to launching sometime in September 2023 (that’s the rumor at least), but many gamers have been wondering if Apple is serious about its commitment to gaming.

With its recent WWDC 2023 outing, Apple announced a new Game Porting Toolkit coming to Metal 3. What games have we seen that people care about? I love Death Stranding, so it’s cool to see that it’s coming to Mac, but it’s a four-year-old video game. 

Apple doesn’t seem serious at all about gaming, but is it working for the company? It’s not for me.

Like a bad apple

Apple is the kid at the playground who doesn’t want to share their toys. We’ve seen it in the lawsuit vs. Epic Games and its removal of Fortnite from the App Store. We’ve seen it when Apple blocked Xbox Game Pass from the App Store.

There doesn’t seem to be a future where you’ll have a device made by Apple that fulfills all of your gaming needs. But does this closed ecosystem really work for Apple?

I asked Anshel Sag, Principal Analyst for Moor Insights & Strategy, and they said that “Apple's closed ecosystem works for Apple only because of the size of its user base.” Since there’s only a single app that developers need to use to create for iOS and macOS, it’s easier to create, but it “limits what kinds of developers can and will work with Apple.”

Apple does not want iOS and macOS users to enjoy the wealth of gaming unless it’s controlled and monitored by them. Apple claims it’s for security reasons, but is there any merit to that claim? Sag simply responded, “Not at all.” Three simple words that speak volumes.

Where are the games?

So Apple has a closed ecosystem and the company is happy with it. But what does that mean for gaming on iOS and macOS? We have Apple Arcade and a handful of notable games on Steam, but modern gaming is lacking across the board.

You want to know the games that Apple highlights for Apple Arcade? TMNT Splintered Fate, Temple Run+, Dead Cells+. Those are among the seven new additions in 2023. Temple Run and Dead Cells have been out for years and their Apple Arcade versions aren’t going to spice them up enough to tantalize me. That’s roughly one game per month. Meanwhile, a handful of games come and go monthly on Xbox Game Pass.

Is Apple Arcade even successful? Sag stated that Apple Arcade is Apple’s way of controlling which games get attention and driving the in-game revenue up. It controls the games, so it controls the money, avoiding the spotty purchases that you’d see on a less organized service.

In this humble journalist’s opinion, it sounds like Apple Arcade is a small but steady revenue flow and is by no means meant to be a serious contender in the gaming space.

Of course, you can play games like Resident Evil Village and No Man’s Sky on macOS, but they’re not playable on iOS. If Xbox Game Pass was on iOS, you could play No Man’s Sky and many more AAA games on your iPhone.

Is the tech even there?

With rumors about the iPhone 15 Pro getting better cooling, it’s led to some speculation about how the smartphone will handle gaming. Is this something people can really game on?

I have never owned an iPhone, but I would like to give it a try. Unfortunately, the baseline iPhones are stuck with 60Hz displays, and that trend might continue with the iPhone 15 lineup. 60Hz is the bare minimum we expect in our gaming display smartphone or otherwise— in fact, I’ve never seen a modern display feature anything less than that.

There’s a long list of mobile games with 120 frames-per-second support, including Batman: The Enemy Within, ARK: Survival Evolved, and Injustice 2, so you can’t experience these games on anything but 60-fps because of the 60Hz screen.

Then there’s Metal 3’s new Game Porting Toolkit, which seems nice in theory, but this is putting a lot in the hands of developers. We don’t know how this system will turn out until we actually see the wave of games that come or don’t. I won’t be convinced until modern games launch on macOS the same day as PC.

Is Apple planning to dip further into the gaming world? What can the company really do with the strategies it currently has? Sag states that Apple might want to bring PC-like gaming to Macs, but “it's still unclear how serious it is about improving the gaming experience.”

The performance and wealth of libraries alone are enough of a difference to make macOS and iOS a serious challenge to overhaul in order to compete.

Will iPhone 15 be the gaming phone we want?

Between Apple’s closed ecosystem, its lackluster Apple Arcade service, and its hands-off approach toward developers and its own tech, I don’t see myself waiting in line to buy an iPhone 15.

I’ve always had a soft spot for macOS –– that’s what I grew up with, and it would be my daily driver if it could play all the video games that PC could. At this point, the same goes for iOS — while I never owned an iPhone, I can’t see myself ever purchasing one if I have to run in circles to use a service like Xbox Game Pass on the device. 

What’s the point of modern technology if it’s not convenient and accessible?

WWDC feels like it only just came and went, but it’s already time to turn our eyes toward the next event on the horizon: the highly anticipated September 2023 Apple Event. This is when we’ll get our first look at the new Apple iPhone 15 Series and Apple Watch Series 9 devices, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 2 — all from the comfort of our own homes.

Want a peek at what’s to come? Read on for everything we know about Apple’s September 2023 event, including its expected date and time, how to watch, and all of the products we expect to see.

Apple September 2023 event: Latest news (Updated: September 11)

• Follow our coverage of every announcement on our Apple September event liveblog
• iPhone 15 Pro leak reveals that it has lost a lot of weight
• Apple's September event is official with invites confirming Sept. 12 date
• Our roundup of the latest and breaking Apple Watch Series 9 rumors and leaks.
• iPhone 15 may FINALLY get a feature that Android users have enjoyed for years. 35W charging could be heading to iPhone 15.
• Apple reportedly decreasing iPhone 15 production — here's why.
• iPhone 15 may have 'thunderously' fast data-transfer speeds — and it's not just due to USB-C.
• A secret chip in the iPhone 15? You’re not USB-Cing things. Photos reportedly point to Apple going ahead with its Made For iPhone USB-C limitations.
• A round-up of all the current Apple Watch Ultra 2 rumors including specifications, price, release date, and more.
• A selection of all the iPad Mini 7 rumors we know so far including its design, specs, features and likely pricing.
• In-the-know journo's claimed release date leak suggests there will be no delays to the iPhone lineup this year.
• This iOS 17 feature can quick launch your iPhone camera for the perfect shot in an instant.

Apple September 2023 event: Date, time, and how to watch

Invites went out on August 29 confirming that the Apple September event is Sept. 12, right in line with our predictions.

As with most modern Apple events, the pre-taped keynote will almost certainly be available to stream live via the Apple Events website and Apple’s YouTube channel.

As for when to watch, Apple’s September event will once again kick off at 10 a.m. PT, 1 p.m. ET, and 6 p.m. BST for those in the U.K.

Apple September 2023 event: What will Apple announce?

Apple typically reserves its September event to reveal a new iPhone lineup alongside new Apple Watch devices. Beyond hardware, Apple is likely to take this opportunity to announce release dates for the following operating systems: 

• macOS 14 Sonoma
• iOS 17
• iPadOS 17
• watchOS 10
• tvOS 17

With everything we know so far, the following are the products most likely to make an appearance during the Apple September 2023 event: 

Apple iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max

The main focus of Apple’s September 2023 event will be on the all-new iPhone 15 Series of devices, including the core iPhone 15, the iPhone 15 Plus, Pro, and Pro Max — all of which are set to now feature USB-C ports as standard.

The all-new port might have a few tricks up its sleeve however, as a recent leak seems to showcase a mystery chip that could serve as a verification step for Apple's Made for iPhone (MFi) certification. Reportedly, USB-C cables lacking this certification could be limited in charge times and data speed.

However, it could also point to lightning-fast Thunderbolt/USB4 tech inclusion and have something to do with the rumors that iPhone 15 will feature vastly improved 35W charge speeds. Either way, Apple seems to want to claim sole ownership of the best iPhone 15 charging and data speeds.

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are expected to make use of Apple’s A16 Bionic chip, the same found in iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max models. Both devices are also said to feature an upgraded 48MP main camera, Super Retina XDR OLED displays, and up to 512GB of storage.

The two core options differ mostly in screen size and battery capacity with the iPhone 15 featuring a 60Hz, 6.1-inch panel with a 3,877mAh battery and the iPhone 15 Plus housing a 60Hz, 6.7-inch screen and a 4,912mAh battery.

On the other hand, iPhone 15 Pro models are expected to make use of Apple’s A17 Bionic chip, the company’s first 3nm processor. Not only will this bring more performance to Apple’s flagship phones, but also better efficiency, squeezing the most out of the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max’s expanded 3,650mAh and 4,852mAh battery capacities.

While the iPhone 15 Pro Max model will reportedly feature an upgraded telephoto (now periscope) lens (ditching the digital zoom of old for a variable optical zoom), both Pro models will apparently enjoy a new titanium casing with curved edges, up to 1TB of storage, and 120Hz displays at 6.1 inches and 6.7 inches in size.

To learn more about the differences between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models or for a more detailed rundown on what Apple could have in store with its latest iPhone line-up check out our roundups below:

• iPhone 15 rumors and leaks
• iPhone 15 Pro rumors
• iPhone 15 Vs. iPhone 15 Pro: Biggest differences to expect
• iPhone 15 camera upgrades

Apple Watch Series 9

The fact we’ve heard very little about what to expect from the Apple Watch Series 9 might give you an indication of what to expect in terms of its latest refresh.

A recent roadmap laid out by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicates that Apple has been hard at work on two Apple Watch Series 9 models for release this year — likely the 41mm and 45mm aluminum and stainless steel designs of old. When it comes to color options, the aluminum model will reportedly be available in Midnight, Starlight, Silver, (PRODUCT) RED, and Pink. The stainless steel model will be available in three colors: Gold, Graphite, and Silver.

Much of what was the Apple Watch Series 8 will carry over, though Apple has reportedly refreshed the watch’s internals with a more powerful S9 chip. The new chipset will be based on Apple’s A15 Bionic, bringing better performance and battery life to the table just in time to make the most of the upcoming watchOS 10 release. 

• Apple Watch Series 9 rumors

Apple Watch Ultra 2

The Apple Watch Ultra 2, a follow-up to the awesome Apple Watch Ultra, is also touted to make an appearance, appearing on the same roadmap as the Apple Watch Series 9 and similarly earmarked for a 2023 release.

Information about what to expect from the second generation of Apple’s smartwatch is scarce, but it’s likely to receive the same processor upgrade as the Apple Watch Series 9 — resulting in the same S9 chipset performance and efficiency boost.

The next big hardware change we’re likely to notice when it comes to the Apple Watch Ultra’s design will be when Apple begins outfitting the smartwatch with its own in-house micro-LED displays. But don’t expect to see that change until at least 2025.

However, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 will feature changes you won’t automatically notice by way of 3D-printed titanium components that cut the cost of manufacturing the device and reduce its weight. Will the reduced production costs translate into more affordable pricing for Apple’s premium wearable? That remains to be seen.

• Apple Watch Ultra 2 rumors

Apple September 2023 event: What else could we see? 

There’s always room for “One more thing…” at an Apple event, and while Apple Park is known to spring more leaks than a TENA commercial, the potential for a surprise reveal still exists. Here are some of our picks for outside chances heading to Apple’s September 2023 event: 

Apple iPad Mini (Gen 7)

A recent leak by tipster ShrimpApplePro indicates that at least one iPad could be set to steal some of the keynote spotlight — likely the iPad Mini 7.

However, while the tipster feels its appearance is a possibility, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman doesn't share the same enthusiasm. In a January issue of his Power On newsletter, Gurman stated that he believes Apple is unlikely to release any significant iPad upgrades this year.

This would also line up with a tweet from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who believes that the next iPad mini refresh will begin mass production in Q1 of 2024.

The last iPad Mini launched in September 2021, running on Apple’s A15 Bionic chip and 4GB of RAM. While the leak doesn’t go into any further details about what to expect, we can assume Apple would at the very least have an upgrade to the chipset in mind.

Though, before anybody starts dreaming of an M2 iPad Mini, we’d expect an upgrade to the A16 Bionic processor at most.

• iPad mini 7 rumors

Outlook

Whether you’re a fan of the smartphones, smartwatches, or software that Apple produces, September’s showcase will have something for everyone — and see Apple sign off on a massively important and successful 2023. Make sure to check back often for the latest updates on Apple’s plans and everything we know about its upcoming additions.

For news, rumors, and updates on all things Apple, iPhone, and tech, follow Laptop Mag on Twitter, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives.  

Apple is the leading technology brand when it comes to devices and gadgets of all kinds, spending years solidifying the MacBook, iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch as some of the most highly sought after pieces of tech out there. The company even has its own monitors, TV devices, desktop computers and an enormous suite of applications.

But have you ever looked at Apple’s line-up and wondered why it’s such a simple company? They utilize a very particular brand of slick minimalism that makes everything they create appear perfectly designed, yet they lack variety. 

Where are the OLED MacBooks? Where are the 2-in-1 laptops? Where are foldable iPhones? How is it possible that its $5,000 Pro XDR Display is only LED? WWDC 2023 was a two-hour conference yet the only MacBook edition Apple announced is a slightly larger MacBook Air 15? We’ve previously written about how boring that is, but the company continues to be basic on all fronts. 

Why are there no OLED MacBook? 

I purchased my first OLED TV, the phenomenal LG C1 OLED, back in 2021 and it changed my life. It’s hard to watch or play anything on it and then return to LED screens, as the massive difference in color depth, especially within its range of blacks, is unlike anything I’ve seen.

Since then, I’ve tested quite a few OLED laptops and tablets: The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro, Acer Swift Go 14, and, my personal favorite, the Lenovo Yoga 9i. All three of these have gorgeous displays and watching films was my favorite aspect of testing them, which made me wonder: Why aren’t these phenomenal displays present on MacBook products?

OLED laptops have been a thing since 2016, with the X1 Yoga solidifying itself as the first. We’ve seen plenty of other companies follow suit, with rumors claiming that we won’t see MacBook Pro models with OLED until 2026. Apple is taking its sweet time implementing these beautifully vibrant displays into its line-up, and it made me realize Apple is constantly sluggish in adapting new technologies.

This can be applied to every other Apple product. Where is the Apple Pro Display OLED? Or the Apple iPad OLED? The iPhone X debuted with an OLED in 2017, yet for some reason, the company has yet to implement this into other devices. We are aware of rumors that microLED displays are coming to Apple’s line-up in the future as well, but will it similarly take forever to grace MacBooks? 

Why are there no 2-in-1 MacBooks? 

Apple has been largely present in both the laptop and tablet industry for a long time, yet somehow, the highly popular trend of 2-in-1 laptops hasn’t crossed over the bougie Cupertino lawn. Instead, it foolishly continues to go down the route of implementing shoddily-crafted attachable keyboards to its iPad models, all the while it’s still slowed down by iPadOS’ frustrating software. We’ve written a whole article about how our very own Rami Tabari tried to use the iPad Pro as a laptop for a week and mostly hated it.

Apple already has touchscreens in iPads and even boasts the beloved Apple Pencil, yet we’ve never seen a 2-in-1 MacBook before. What exactly is Apple waiting for, and will the company ever step down this route? Some might argue that Apple isn’t a big fan of gimmicks, but the company’s attachable iPad keyboards are infinitely more gimmicky and work nowhere near as well. 

Why are there no foldable iPhones? 

We continue to see Apple’s lack of innovation with the iPhone, which hasn’t changed all that much since its launch. Samsung introduced its first foldable phone, the Samsung Galaxy Fold, back in 2019. Google just launched its Pixel Fold this year with OnePlus launching one very soon, and yet, we’ve not seen Apple go down the same road.

Instead, the company just filed a patent for a rollable iPhone, which looks like nothing more than an electronic Yodel—it’s the most ridiculous thing Apple will ever do if it does come to fruition. All of this makes us wonder what core philosophy at the center of Apple prevents them from fulfilling these ideas.  

Bottom line 

There used to be a time when Apple was exciting. Nowadays, we are introduced to a new Mac Studio and its greatest selling point is that it has 64GB of RAM. That’s cool and all, but what happened to technology feeling innovative? The Apple Vision Pro is an attempt from the company to do something bigger than ever before, yet everything else has been left to rot.

Apple’s own personal Silicon chips also felt like a step into new and exciting territory, but does it really take this long to implement OLED displays? 2-in-1 laptops? Foldable phones? When a majority of Apple competitors have gone down these roads and done all of this especially well, it’s alarming that the company is still so behind.

No, I’m not kidding. Spotted by Patently Apple, Apple just got a patent approved that is titled "Modifying Virtual Content to Invoke a Target user State.” That’s mind control, right?

But hold up a second. Before you start to get more than a little (understandably) worried, let’s go into the nitty gritty of this and see what the patent details, and how it could be a pretty valuable asset to the Apple Vision Pro.

Changing your mind (for the better)?

In the patent, Apple talks about a headset (which is fair to say the Apple Vision Pro), which works with a “server” (likely translation: iCloud) to control a user’s experience.

All standard at the moment, but it’s when the patent talks about using “sensor information” to determine the state of the user as to present a virtual agent with a “neural expression” to match your energy and encourage you to be calm. 

It would do so by using a variety of on-board sensors (even using the heart rate, blood oxygen, and blood pressure monitors on your Apple Watch) and historical data to track your mood — such as the mood check-ins that are coming as part of iOS 17 and watchOS 9. At that point, it will work to target a particular emotional state by taking control of the experience and presenting appropriate content.

Key examples that Apple specifies include the likes of a cat to help you feel happy, a zen rock garden for relaxation, a virtual agent dancing to crack a smile, and even spiders to make you feel scared.

Outlook

So, while I do love to get a little dramatic with a headline, Apple’s uses for this are actually rather novel — a nice little expansion on the company’s mindfulness which does dip into the slightly terrifying by trying to control more than just your positive emotions.

Of course, mindfulness formed part of the WWDC keynote when talking about the Apple Vision Pro. But this goes one step further. Are we seeing a glimpse into how much further this could be expanded with Apple’s mixed-reality headset? I think so.

Now, we just have to hope Master Cook doesn’t use it to have us all chanting “ThE ViSiOn PrO Is A bArGaIn bUy MoRe iPhOnEs” in unison.

iOS 17 was announced at WWDC 2023, and the public beta is out right now. It’s fair to say this update has been overshadowed by the 15-inch MacBook Air and the Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, but it shouldn’t be ignored.

Apple’s really bringing the heat with an update that is packed to the brim with new features — some are useful, others aren’t so much, but they should change the way you interact with your iPhone.

So let’s get into the nitty gritty of these new features in the public beta, how they impact your iPhone, and whether this is the big, well-thought-out update we’ve all been hoping for. Or whether the Cupertino company is back to its old tricks of throwing everything at the wall, and seeing what sticks.

Can your iPhone run iOS 17?

Let’s answer the first obvious question here. Does iOS 17 support the iPhone you have? Apple has always been pretty legendary in terms of multiple years of software support across many of its iPhones. But some models like the iPhone X and iPhone 8 have been cut from the list this time around. Here are all the phones that will get this update:

• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2022)
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2020)
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XR

New convenience

So before we get to the big features Craig Federighi (and his magnificent hair) bragged about on-stage, let’s talk about the convenience tweaks that heal some of my iOS frustrations. You see, I do love the bigger things that Apple brings to the table, but it’s the smaller developments that help make tasks simpler that tend to make the biggest differences in day-to-day usage.

A huge game changer for iOS 17 is the massive updates made to AirDrop — not just for transferring files, but for the ease of transferring so much more. It starts with the ability to transfer contact information by just holding your iPhone on top of someone else’s, and this proximity-based exchange works on files too.

Plus, AirDrop transfers will continue even if you have to step away. Provided your recipient is signed into iCloud, the transfer will continue over the internet at longer distances. That is a Godsend to someone like me who is always moving around from place to place.

As for how you use the home screen, widgets are no longer just glorified app opening icons. They are interactive, which means you can do things like switch on your Nanoleaf lights directly from the home screen, rather than having to drag down the control center or open the Home app. It massively reduces the amount of taps needed to perform certain tasks.

But my favorite update is, in fact, the smallest switch. Head over to passwords and activate “Clean Up Automatically.” This is part of a 1-2 punch where iOS will now AutoFill two-factor authentication codes from Mail (not just messages), and automatically delete the email after you’ve used the code. It’s been a lifesaver for keeping my inbox clean, and something that blends seamlessly into the background. 

This joins other tiny tweaks like a catch up arrow in messages to go back to where you left off, replying to individual messages by swiping on them, enhanced AutoFill for PDFs that recognises places to fill in details, and AI identifying items in photos with more rich information to give you a far smoother iPhone experience.

Oh, and shout-out to the reminders app automatically sorting your grocery list into categories. I never thought I would be excited about stuff like this. But in my 30s, as a person who gets excited about buying an air fryer during Prime Day, this small bit of automation has been a massively helpful feature.

That’s not to say that all of the features are super useful. I’m, of course, talking about StandBy mode. This is definitely more window dressing than something worthwhile — rotating your phone into landscape on a charging stand turns it into what is essentially a nice little clock for your bedside table with interactive widgets. For sure, it looks cool, but it will really come into its own with increased customization and more third party widgets.

New ways to mess with your friends

Now with the small but impactful functional tweaks out the way, let’s get into the fun part. Apple dedicated a lot of time to talking about the Phone and Messages apps, and I’ll be honest, the company stuck the landing with a sly grin.

It all begins by making your own contact poster that other users see when you call. The customization suite has the same amount of depth as what you can do with the lockscreen, and you can create something that matches your personality with ease. It’s another asset to making your iPhone your own, and I really like it.

But that’s just window dressing when compared to live voicemail, which automatically transcribes a voicemail message as it comes in. For the anxiety of wanting to dodge calls from friends (if you’re reading this, it’s not you, it’s me) or telemarketers, but not knowing whether it was important, this is huge. 

Of course, Google has offered something similar for a while now, but Apple’s implementation integrating directly into the call screen makes it a cinch to just pick up quickly when you see it’s something critical.

Moving over to Messages, all of your additional apps and implementations have been moved into a singular plus button menu, which you can customize the order of to make a helluva lot simpler to use. And within that, stickers have been given a huge revamp in the name of having a laugh. Remember that nifty feature from iOS 16 where you could cut a subject from a photo and paste it as a PNG anywhere else? That is now being used to create stickers.

You can even use it on live photos, so you can slap whatever reactions you want on people’s messages. However creatively you wish to use that is up to you. Translation: troll your friends. It’s a lot of fun.

But don’t take it too far. If you’re one of those weirdos that thinks unsolicited nudes are funny, first of all, go sit by yourself and learn why it’s actually a really problematic behavior. And second, to those on the receiving end, iOS 17 now has a feature to block sensitive photos — displaying two content warning windows that you have to agree to.

Beyond that, you’re getting live transcription on voice memos, sharing your location happens directly within the Messages app, and a new Check In feature helps keep your friends and family aware of when you get home safely — giving the group chat a nudge if there are any unexpected delays.

The keyboard has also been updated with a more reactive Autocorrect that adapts faster to the words you want to ducking use, and it will start to make more accurate predictions inline as you type — meaning you just have to hit the space bar to fill in the rest of the sentence. Think of it like Gmail’s prediction, where it will far more accurately suggest words to fill a whole sentence, while also learning the way you type to cater its dictionary to you. It’s one of those features that you don’t really see or feel working, but it just does its thing in the background.

What’s missing?

There are a slew of other features that we don’t have access to in iOS 17 just yet, such as the new Journal app. And others just haven’t made a material difference to the way I use my iPhone, like the increased accuracy of keyboard autocorrect. But let’s take a beat and look at what this new version doesn’t have:

• Dynamic Island is still pretty pointless — Look, it was a nice idea on paper, and there are some useful integrations with certain live activities. But Apple hasn’t done anything to expand notification support with greater levels of interactivity, or provide any real enticement for developers to take advantage of them.
• Still no way to download apps from third party app stores — Don’t expect this to change any time soon, but I only bring it up because of the moves from regulatory bodies to try and democratize this.

You’ll also find the slow drip feed of features you’d expect to already be present is still alive and well. After iOS 16’s option to keep photo albums private behind Face ID, the fact the company waited an entire year to make this a thing for private browsing on Safari too — rather than giving it to us as part of a whole private suite — is a little annoying. Almost like Apple is holding back features to make newer versions look better.

Outlook

There are some big new features in this public beta that are sure to surprise and delight users, which makes iOS 17 a fun update to look forward to.

In its current state, this new version doesn’t tackle some of our key frustrations with iOS 16, such as Apple not making the most of that dynamic island or a revamped control center with a sleeker UI.

But it’s great to create contact posters for others to see, interactive widgets reduce the amount of taps to get stuff done, live photo stickers are a quick and easy way to troll your mates, and the StandBy mode seems a little pointless, but does turn your phone into a nice additional screen for your bedside table. Also, thank the lord we finally have multiple timers on iOS!

macOS Sonoma was just announced last month at WWDC and there are some enticing macOS 14 features that may convince you to update, but not everyone has that option. MacBooks made before 2018 didn't make the cut for support this year and it's possible the last of the Intel-based MacBooks will join them next year with the release of macOS 15.

That speculation stems from extensive research done by ArsTechnica surrounding macOS support going all the way back to 1998, which lays out the case for Apple potentially hitting the kill switch early on Intel Macs due in large part to the Apple Silicon transition that kicked off in 2020.

Which MacBooks would this effect?

• 2018 MacBook Air
• 2018 MacBook Pro
• 2019 MacBook Air
• 2019 MacBook Pro
• 2020 MacBook Air (Intel)
• 2020 MacBook Pro (Intel)

Keep in mind again that this is speculation, Apple won't announce the official list of devices supported by macOS 15 until WWDC 2024. Most would agree that the 2018 MacBook models are likely to be dropped, but the real question lies with those last Intel-based 2019-2020 models. 

Ars looked to the PowerPC transition back in 2006, when Apple originally moved to Intel, for some instruction on how aggressive the company could be in dropping support for the previous generation laptops. The very last of the PowerPC laptops (the plastic white 2008 MacBook) "received only 2.7 years of new macOS updates and 3.3 years of security updates from the time it was introduced." 

So while cutting off laptops released in 2020 might feel aggressive, it would not be completely unprecedented for Apple. One possible differentiating factor this time around is that MacBooks were wildly more popular in 2020 than they were back in 2008, so Apple has far more customers to worry about upsetting. 

Apple was also selling some Intel-based desktops into 2023: the 2018 Mac Mini and 2019 Mac Pro. While it would be hard to argue anyone bought those computers not knowing that Apple Silicon was the way of the future, they also likely didn't expect to only see one major OS update for their computers. So that may be a second reason for Apple to stay the execution on the last of the Intel-based MacBooks until macOS 16 in 2025.

Now we are talking about the end of new OS updates, not security updates, which as highlighted above will typically extend for at least another 3 years beyond the end of major OS updates.

So if you are reading this from an Intel-based MacBook, don't panic, regardless of whether Apple drops support with macOS 15 or macOS 16, your laptop isn't going to suddenly stop working. Apple will certainly continue to offer security updates that will have your laptop running safely, you just won't be getting whatever the latest and greatest new macOS features might be.

One of the key takeaways from this is for those that are looking at purchasing a used MacBook. Steer clear of Intel-based MacBooks, while there was some trepidation early on, Apple Silicon is thoroughly proven and even the original M1 MacBook Air remains one of the best Apple laptops, so if you are looking for the most affordable MacBook that is where you should draw the line.

As for the actual fate of Intel-based MacBook support, we'll have to wait until WWDC 2024 for the answer.

Even though we’ve just seen the last of the M2 chips, M3 is coming sooner than you think. In fact, you may want to hold off on buying a MacBook because of it.

According to a recent report, Apple may be launching the M3 MacBook Air, a new 13-inch MacBook Pro, and even an upgraded iMac with this new M3 chip.

(M)3 is a magic number

In his latest newsletter for Bloomberg, Gurman reports that Apple is set to launch the first wave of M3 Apple Silicon Macs this October. This would follow the inevitable September iPhone 15 event, plus the launch of the Apple Watch Series 9, and the new Apple Watch Ultra.

Much like the A17 Bionic you’ll see in the iPhone 15 Pro, the M3 is manufactured on a 3nm process. But while the core count will reportedly stay similar to what, the manufacturer TSMC’s enhanced process means we can expect to see impressive upgrades in performance and power efficiency — more than what we saw between M1 and M2.

Now, there is one big question. Why is M3 coming so soon after the M2 lineup has seemingly wrapped up with the most recent Mac Studio and Mac Pro models at WWDC? It all seems awfully fast. 

Well, as we’ve seen, supply chain issues have held back the likes of the M2 Ultra, which doesn’t seem to have affected the M3, given Apple bought up 100% of TSMC’s stock of 3nm chips. So the crossover between these two generations has been a lot more apparent this time around than usual.

Outlook

The likes of the new 15-inch MacBook Air sounds great on paper, but with M3 laptops coming in just three months time, I’d probably hold off on that purchase. Not just to see what the performance gains would look like, but for the discounts that come for older models.

Gurman does not specifically confirm that an October keynote will happen. There is a chance these new models are announced via press release (just like the M2 Pro/M2 Max MacBook Pros). But for something as significant as a brand new generation of Apple silicon, I’d put money on seeing a full announcement event.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to setup a prayer circle for a 13-inch MacBook Pro redesign that finally ditches the touchbar.

iOS 17 brings a host of updates to the iPhone, big and small, and you can test them out right now if you download the iOS 17 public beta. While there is certainly reason to be cautious about installing any beta, Apple's public betas are traditionally quite stable, there have already been three developer betas since WWDC, so Apple's had time to get things spruced up.

I've been running the public beta since it launched and while I would say that battery drain feels a bit more aggressive, it's not so prodigious that I felt the need to switch back, but it's worth being aware of if you can't easily charge during the day. The good news is that if you do have any serious problems downgrading from iOS 17 to iOS 16 is a snap.

So with that out of the way, what are the features that would motivate you to dip your toe into the potentially murky waters of the iOS 17 public beta? Here are three of the most compelling additions so far.

1. Personal Voice

The clear front-runner for this list, Personal Voice is a new accessibility feature in iOS 17 that lets your iPhone make a simulated version of your voice to use with your text-to-speech tool. 

It's a fantastic new addition to the iPhone's functionality for those that have difficulty speaking and also a feature that is sure to do the rounds on social media as people are fascinated by the recreations of their own voices. 

If you want to try it for yourself you'll need to of course install the iOS 17 beta and then follow our guide on how to set up and use Personal Voice in iOS 17. Be aware that it's not an instantaneous process the first time, our own Jason England tested it out and it took approximately six hours for it to produce his synthetic voice.

2. StandBy

As someone that has used smart displays for years, StandBy is one of the more interesting new features in iOS 17 as it dramatically enhances the utility of your iPhone while it is charging. The only catch is that you need the iOS 17 public beta installed, and your phone needs to be charging wirelessly on its side.

The best way to do this is with a wireless charging stand, I've been using the Belkin MagSafe 2-in-1 charging stand, which is a nice little minimal stand with a spot to charge your AirPods wirelessly too, but as long as it is charging wirelessly on its side then StandBy mode activates.

That's where the fun starts. You can customize what you see in StandBy, whether you want a fullscreen clock, a photo gallery, or various widgets. The iPhone will also intelligently present you with SmartStacks that serve up the information you need at the right moment.

Live Activities give you a full-screen view of things like timers, currently playing music, or glanceable information like sports scores, which are perfect in the kitchen or at your desk. Notifications also get the full-screen treatment, although you can't actually address them without coming out of StandBy. 

Phone or FaceTime calls come through with their full Contact Posters (when available) in landscape. It's worth noting that it takes a couple of seconds for the phone to come out of StandBy, so you may want to accept the call before picking your phone up.

If you are using an iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max with an always-on display you can opt to have StandBy on at all times. It also lends itself to use on a nightstand, for that you have a Night Mode that will switch to a red tone that won't disrupt your sleep. If you have different views you like in different places MagSafe memory remembers and automatically switches to the preferred option for your nightstand versus your desk for example.

Here's how to set up and use StandBy mode in iOS 17.

3. Live Voicemail

Sure the new Contact Posters look cool, but unless all of your friends are running the iOS 17 public beta they won't be able to see your carefully crafted poster anyway. So instead let's take a look at another new Phone feature in iOS 17: Live Voicemail.

Now when you aren't quite quick enough to catch that call or your social anxiety is running high and you didn't pick up, you'll be able to see a live transcription of the message so you know if you want to answer or just let them keep leaving the message. You can even fast forward the process if you are just call screening by hitting the voicemail button to send them directly to Live Voicemail.

If it's a suspected spam call or you've activated "Silence Unknown Callers" then the call will just be declined automatically rather than going to Live Voicemail and bothering you.

That's just a smattering of the new features in iOS 17, we'll have our full impressions for you soon with a closer look at all of the new additions that may convince you to install the iOS 17 public beta and try it yourself.

Wondering how to download the new iOS 17 public beta? You've come to the right place! Like you, we're can't wait to experiment with new features, including Stickers, the updated Visual Look Up, Check In, NameDrop, and more.

Of course, you can't do any of this if you're still stuck on iOS 16. To preview some of the best features iOS 17 has to offer, you'll have to upgrade to the new iOS 17 public beta Apple just released today.

Keep in mind, however, that there are risks involved with downloading the iOS 17 public beta. It is a beta version, after all, which means it's, at best, little rough around the edges, and at worst, a possible threat to the existing content on your iPhone. So before downloading the iOS 17 public beta, we highly recommend backing up your iPhone first.

How to download the iOS 17 public beta

Once you've backed everything up and you, follow the steps below to install the iOS 17 public beta.

1. Make sure that your iPhone is running iOS 16.4 or newer (you can check this by simply asking, "Hey Siri, what iOS version is on my iPhone?")

2. Next, go to Safari on your iPhone and sign up for Apple's Beta Software program. Don't worry; you don't need to pay for anything. It's free.

3. Log in using the Apple ID you use on your iPhone and enroll it in the program. Follow through with the sign-up process (make sure you read the agreement once it pops up.)

4. Go to the Settings app.

5. Tap on Software Update. 

6. Under Automatic Update, tap on Beta Updates.

7. Now, you should see the option to download iOS 17 Public Beta. Tap on it and you'll see a blue check.

8. Go back to the last screen, and you'll be prompted to download the iOS 17 Public Beta.

The iOS 17 Public beta takes several minutes to download, so be patient. Keep in mind that you need a 2018 iPhone or newer to install this beta (e.g., XR, XS, and second-gen SE owners are out of luck).

Today in Apple-related news: MacBook Pros can run Cyberpunk 2077 better than a PS4. Feel free to pull a double take at that — I did too, and I wrote it. It's not clickbait, nor is it misleading. Seemingly, out of the blue, Apple's MacBook Pro is now somehow a gaming laptop.

MacOS Sonoma is currently undergoing beta testing, and so too are the features it will eventually release with. One of them, the Game Porting Toolkit announced at this year's WWDC, just received its first update — and it’s already catapulting Apple Silicon-based MacBook Pros to never before seen heights. 

The Game Porting Toolkit 1.0.2 update 

In the month since its announcement, Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit has been wowing those testing macOS Sonoma’s beta with its ability to run popular PC gaming titles natively on Macs. Last week saw the toolkit get its first update, and it’s making an already incredible achievement even more impressive.

YouTuber Andrew Tsai took the new Game Porting Toolkit 1.0.2 update for a spin with the M1 Max MacBook Pro, using it to test run some popular PC gaming titles — and the results will turn more than a few heads.

Not only was Tsai able to get Elden Ring running at a serviceable 32 frames per second (FPS) on low graphics settings at 1080p, but the YouTuber also showcased CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 running at medium graphics settings in 1440p at a cool 40 FPS. Eat your heart out Sony.

Notably, the same games ran worse on Macs outfitted with an M2 Ultra chip, with Cyberpunk 2077 in particular peaking at just 18 FPS, though this is likely due to how the M2 Ultra chip is currently supported by the toolkit. However, Apple’s most powerful silicon chip is capable of running Horizon Zero Dawn at 40+ FPS on ultra graphics settings at 1080p — something the toolkit was unable to do before last week’s update.

Outlook

It’s exciting times for Mac users who have historically been left out in the cold when it comes to gaming. Apple’s macOS Sonoma update is a massive one, and it can’t be overstated how important its accompanying Game Porting Toolkit is for developers and Mac owners at large.

Gaming on a Mac has been the butt of many a joke for decades now, but Apple may have struck gold with the Game Porting Toolkit and its ability to showcase the power of Apple Silicon to game publishers and developers. We could be about to witness a gaming boom on Apple devices, which leads me to believe that while the Apple Vision Pro may have stolen the spotlight, Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit was the real star of WWDC 2023.

Now all we need is a MacBook with an RGB keyboard.

During a recent companywide meeting, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed that he isn't feeling the heat following Apple’s recent announcement of the Vision Pro headset. The meeting was reported on by The Verge’s Alex Heath, who was lucky enough to capture Zuckerberg’s thoughts on Apple’s headset as he spoke with Meta employees.

Zuckerberg took to Instagram just days before WWDC to unveil Meta’s own upcoming headset — and Meta’s great hope for the survival of the Metaverse — the Quest 3. Was this Zuckerberg’s way of asserting dominance in the face of Apple’s announcement? Who knows. But the headset was able to cash in on the AR/VR hype train that had been brewing around the Cupertino brand’s long-awaited announcement.

However, one thing it does tell us is that we can potentially put an end to all of those rumors that 'the Zuck' is part of the Illuminati secret society, as he decided to announce Meta’s upcoming headset hours before the scheduled Meta Quest Gaming Showcase, in turn stealing much of the spotlight away from the day’s following announcements — a stark display of his inability to keep things on the down low.

Works for thee, but not for me

While talking with employees, Zuckerberg was keen to point out how the two companies are doing things differently, and that Apple’s announcement won’t sway Meta’s heading.

“They [Apple] went with a higher resolution display, and between that and all the technology they put in there to power it, it costs seven times more and now requires so much energy that now you need a battery and a wire attached to it to use it.”

The Meta CEO continued, “I think that their announcement really showcases the difference in the values and the vision that our companies bring to this,” Zuckerberg highlighted, in reference to Apple’s Vision Pro reveal earlier this week.

While Zuckerberg did acknowledge Apple’s headset tech prowess he also pointed to the design trade-off that has dampened overall usability and massively inflated the Vision Pro’s cost. In contrast, Meta is happy to go in the other direction, with Zuckerberg stating: “We innovate to make sure that our products are as accessible and affordable to everyone as possible, and that is a core part of what we do.” 

The people's playground

A key part of Meta’s decision to stay the course with its plans for future Quest devices lies in its secret weapon — the Metaverse. Zuckerberg continued, “Our vision for the metaverse and presence is fundamentally social. It’s about people interacting in new ways and feeling closer in new ways. Our device is also about being active and doing things.”

While it might not have taken flight quite like Meta had hoped for, even the Wright brothers took a few nosedives in the run-up to soaring across the skies. And, to be fair to Meta, they’re not wrong.

The company’s Quest headsets are an inherently social experience, with a key focus on engaging with others — whether that be watching a 3D movie in a virtual cinema with others, or running amok with friends across a few rounds of Gorilla Tag. 

Them's fightin' words

“By contrast, every demo that they showed was a person sitting on a couch by themself. I mean, that could be the vision of the future of computing, but like, it’s not the one that I want. There’s a real philosophical difference in terms of how we’re approaching this.”

It looks like all that all of that Jiu-jitsu is paying off because Zuckerberg is coming out hands-a-swingin’ here. Or at least, as hands-a-swingin’ as he’s ever been before. What will no doubt sting the most from a comment like this is that Meta’s CEO has made a solid and hard-to-argue point. How social of an experience can Apple’s Vision Pro headset ever hope to be with a price tag of $3499? Even if you can afford it, can the rest of your friends or family?

The Vision Pro's high cost of entry is likely why the device seems so insular. So few people will actually be able to afford the damned thing, that even if there was an Appleverse to leap headset-first into, you’d be hard-pressed to stumble upon anything except a remote, virtual reality effigy burning by the now worship-from-home, rich and powerful invitees of Bohemian Grove.

Outlook

While not quite The Shot Heard Round the World or the spark that ignites the great war between Apple and Meta, Mark Zuckerberg's comments are still massively important. While not overly salacious or spicy, the Meta CEO's words are an indicator that he's feeling the wind in his sails once again for both the Quest 3 and the Metaverse.

Maybe that's because Apple have whipped the world into an AR/VR frenzy, before quickly pricing 99% of those aboard the hype train out of the experience. Leaving Meta's latest headset the Quest 3 to deliver that experience to a wider audience than ever before.

At this point, Zuckerberg has more to thank Apple for than fight them over.

The opening day of Apple’s annual WWDC revealed some impressive features heading to iPhone through the upcoming iOS 17 update. We’ve already gone into 11 new features coming to your iPhone with the update, but a few have the potential to do just as much hard as good.

The upcoming features updates to AirDrop, Contacts, FaceTime, and Messages include a number of great personalization features that let you quickly share contact information, choose how you appear to others when making a call, and easily make custom stickers to share with others.

The problem? You might not really be interested in somebody’s unsolicited nudes showing up on your phone when they call you. Nor do you want to check your FaceTime videomail to find all sorts of questionable horrors awaiting you.

Thanks, but no thanks

If you’re anything approximating as cynical as I am. You likely realized the potential for ner-do-wells to do you wrong with these features almost immediately. Thankfully, it seems like Apple was well aware too, and has some expanded Privacy and Security measures to thwart those looking to abuse its platform.

You’ll now have the option to blur sensitive photos and videos before you choose the view them across a range of iOS apps like Messagers, AirDrop, Contact Posters, FaceTime messages, and even third-party apps.

So you won’t have to worry about your creepy “friend” Dick illuminating your phone with a Contact Poster of his Richard in front of your friends and family when they send you an out-of-the-blue Romeo Dial.

That's one less of life's looming horrors you'll have to worry about at least. Nice work, Apple.

The moment we’ve all been waiting for finally arrived this week, it swooped in at the end of Apple’s opening WWDC keynote talk, ready to steal the hearts of Apple aficionados the world over. Pulses reached tachycardic levels as Tim Cook’s wry smile announced that there was just “one more thing” left in store for the day. And then he did it, the madman actually did it. He unveiled the next groundbreaking step in consumer tech — the Apple Vision Pro. 

Oh, bugger. It’s revolting.

You can take us on a virtual rollercoaster tour of this monstrosity all you like. I see your clever games here, but I’m well aware of the powerful visual effects of close-up, tilt-shift photography. Everything looks good when shot like that, you could show me a 30-second slow-motion orbital swing of cat sick and as long as it had a shallow depth of field my stomach would rumble with hunger by the time it was over.

Once this pre-rendered fly-by had concluded we got our first look at the Vision Pro in action. I’ve no doubt at all that the woman modeling the headset was at least attempting to smile, though its bulky presence pushed down her cheeks and deformed her whimsical gaze. What resulted was someone looking almost sarcastically smug, if not bored — if not incredibly stoned. The poor woman had to start mouth-breathing seconds into her appearance, likely to survive the crushing of her sinuses by this bubble-fronted behemoth.

My god, what happened to those ultra-svelte ski goggles we’d been looking at in renders for the past three months? I thought all that design information was harvested by those in the know. What the hell is this thing? These wouldn’t be suitable for hitting the slopes. Not unless you plan on hucking your way down the Cydonian mountains of Mars. It’s outright atrocious. How is the man that crapped on Google Glass ten years ago so giddy to unveil a machine whose silhouette looks let a set of glass buttox?

Oh how the mighty have fallen

Good old Steve Jobs once said that Tim Cook isn’t a product person, and I’m pretty sure he was onto something. Tim Cook has done a great many things, but he hasn’t shown the type of innovation that Jobs managed to squeeze out of Apple while he’s been at the helm. Tim Cook has however turned Apple into a trillion-dollar company with a health and eco-friendly focus that can only be applauded.

But I have to say, after seeing the Vision Pro with my own two eyes (on a screen, on a website, from a pre-recorded video), I’m not sure if Cook’s master plan was to release an AR headset at all. If I had to put money on it, my best guess would be this was just the first step in furthering his own green agenda by harnessing the incredible power of Steve Jobs rolling in his grave at speeds so fast you’d think God was pressing the down button and frantically tapping jump — that’s a Sonic joke, that is.

I don’t say this to be inflammatory to Jobs, on the contrary. I say it because if parallel universes do exist, I guarantee there’s not a single one out there where Steve Jobs would allow a product that looks like this to be revealed to the public. I’m not even entirely convinced he would let the cold light of day land upon its bubbled exterior.

Apple is one of the few companies out there that take the design of their products incredibly seriously — or at least, they used to. “Apple cannot ship trash,” is something Steve Jobs was stated to have said once during a conference call, and it’s that mentality that has given Apple the edge to this day. 

You may not like the brand or its cultural idolization, and you may not like the products for their inflated prices or vainglorious presentation. However, whether you’re ready to admit it or not, Apple doesn’t ship trash. 

Apple doesn't ship trash*

Well, Apple didn’t ship trash anyway. There have been some fascinatingly poor design choices made ever since Job’s passing, take for example the second-generation unveiling of Apple’s Magic Mouse. The Magic Mouse was initially a battery-operated, multi-touch peripheral allowing mouse users to make use of gestures and inertia scrolling on Mac and MacBook devices. It was sleek, it was stylish — the Magic Mouse was a masterclass in minimalist design.

When the second iteration of the product rolled around in 2015, Apple had done away with the battery component — innovation! Just one slight problem, they placed the charging port on the bottom of the mouse — rendering the mouse completely useless to anyone needing to charge it.

How about 2016’s Touch Bar MacBook Pro with its revolutionary butterfly keyboard? The new keyboard design was hailed as “four times more stable” than the previous, a claim that became almost immediately invalidated when McBook usrs wre lft typng lke ths. It wuld sm tht th kybord hd n ncrdibl succptblity to dust nd dbris gttng undr th kycps — rndrng th thng lmst ntrly unusbl fr som. 

The biggest travesty Apple has made in terms of design came from another point in time entirely, when the brand was left without Jobs at the helm — the ripe old year of 1986. Jobs had been pushed overboard from the company the previous year for his outlandish, and frankly unreasonable, desire to keep making personal computers.

Apple was heading in a new direction now, in fact, Apple was heading in multiple new directions now. One of those directions? How about an Apple clothing line featuring all your favorite highlighter hues and neon tones? It was like the title credits for Saved By The Bell had vomited all over an otherwise perfectly functional white T-shirt. 

Outlook

During Apple’s keynote, Cook referred to the Vision Pro as the first Apple product we will look through, and not at. Maybe this is why it seems so acceptable to drop Apple’s standards for design on this one.

For what it’s worth, the Vision Pro doesn’t exactly look like cheap tat — and for $3500 you’d hope so. It does look like a premium product, just not an Apple product. It lacks that Apple flair and the brand’s unique sense of class.

However, this is entirely subjective and all my own opinion, what with beauty being in the eye of the beholder and all that jazz. Maybe I’ve just been a victim of buying into the leaks surrounding the Vision Pro’s design — all supposedly sourced from those in the know. Or maybe Apple is simply a victim of its own past stylistic successes.

Or maybe, just maybe, the brand we’ve been funneling money into for decades for its quality, beauty, and distinct aesthetic is beginning to rest on its laurels. Maybe a ‘product person’ would’ve listened to their engineering teams pleas for a delayed launch until the product could match the initial vision.

While the Vision Pro is Apple’s first steps into a post-iPhone world, the incredible tech behind it ensures you’ll be able to bring plenty of what’s familiar along for the ride. However, Jobs’ perfectionism, eye-for-detail, and captivating design standards might be left behind this time. At least for now.

Apple’s milestone operating system updates can sometimes mean its software is getting anything from a fresh coat of paint to a complete renovation. However, the unveiling of Apple’s augmented and virtual reality-based visionOS platform is a new home for Apple users entirely.

The Apple Vision Pro may be the piece of hardware stealing the show right now, but its success as a product will be down to more than just 4K micro-OLED displays and dual M2 and R1 SoCs – visionOS is the heart and soul of Apple’s AR/VR vision, one that will grow and adapt over future generations of headsets.

There’s a lot going on here, and plenty to explore. Some features of visionOS will be relatively familiar to those in the Apple ecosystem already while some things are entirely new to us all. Not only do we now have a completely new Apple device to get to grips with, but there’s also an entirely new operating system to do it on. Let's dive into the details on what we know so far and what those itching to step into the virtual Apple-verse can expect.

This story is currently developing as WWDC 2023 continues…

Apple visionOS highlights

• Native support for all iPad and iOS apps at launch
• Familiar developer-friendly frameworks for app creation
• visionOS includes facial scanning for real-time, true-to-life avatars
• Backed by M2 performance, and R1 SoCs
• Spatial ray-tracing audio engine for supreme soundscapes in 3D
• 3D video playback and recording
• IR EyeSight eye-tracking, and sense of presence functions 
• Hand tracking and voice control
• Familiar yet all-new interface
• Interfaces cast shadows to add to sense of scale
• Movable interfaces in 3D space
• Multitask across numerous AR windows with the Multi-App 3D engine
• Sync with MacBook to host 4K display in AR anywhere
• Virtual keyboard interaction, or audio dictation for input
• 100+ Apple Arcade titles ready to play at launch

What is visionOS?

Apple’s latest operating system has been designed with two key features in mind, augmented reality and virtual reality. The operating system will be the backbone for the new Apple Vision Pro headset, offering unique features, apps, and functions to users while exploring this new mixed-reality frontier.

We first became aware of visionOS under the name xrOS after some digital sleuthing unveiled a cleverly disguised trademark filed by an Apple shell corporation to the New Zealand Intellectual Property Office. The information coincided with a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who revealed that insider sources also confirmed the name xrOS to be legit.

The “xr” of xrOS stands for “extended reality,” the clear focus and vision of the Apple Vision Pro. As it turns out, Apple's final name for the software is visionOS. Apple’s goal to bridge the gap between our digital and physical worlds is a lofty one, but its new visionOS platform could be vital in ensuring Apple’s next steps into mixed reality are a success.

visionOS features

visionOS is the first operating system built from the ground up for spatial computing. 

visionOS makes use of the Vision Pro's wide array of cameras to constantly blend the virtual and real world. Delivering a stable and constant picture with floating UI elements that you can interact with. The operating system also makes use of audio ray-tracing to ensure the soundscapes from these augmented reality vistas are as accurate as possible.

Infinite screen real estate is now possible, without any of that physical clutter. Shape and size your workstation at will, tailor your environment to suit your any given need, and more. 

visionOS supports all your favorite iOS and iPadOS apps

The Vision Pro is Apple’s first step into a post-iPhone landscape, but that doesn’t mean it’s leaving everything behind to start anew. While there’ll be a little less physical tapping, the visionOS will feel fresh and familiar to those clued into the Apple ecosystem. Expect the same design ethos, the same fluidity, and a range of familiar apps to find a new home on the visionOS platform.

At launch, visionOS will support hundreds of thousands of iPad and iOS. Even intensive apps like Adobe Lightroom will be available at launch, all easily controlled with subtle hand gestures and your eyes.

You can even play your favorite Apple Arcade titles to play on Vision Pro, with 100_ games available to play on day one alone. You can even use third-party controllers to control things!

visionOS – 3D content for a 3D you

A great number of these apps will be tailored directly to the Vision Pro’s unique features, allowing for eye-tracking and gesture recognition to play a key part in how you interact with Apple’s new operating system. There's even a dial to fine tune just how much you want the visionOS software to phase out the world around you.

The home screen you've previously been used to, truly is a screen now. Expanding into an enormous virtual panel from which you can control how you interact with subtle gestures.

EyeSight tracking allows others to know when you can and cannot see them. It also allows the Vision Pro to display your eyes accurately when you can. Tracking your gaze to show others you're clued into the conversation and paying attention.

Eyesight can be programmed to scan your face, capturing your likeness. This likeness can then be tracked and puppeteered by visionOS in various apps, acting as a highly responsive avatar. Allowing non Apple Vision Pro users to look into the device from outside, and see a clear and accurate representation of your own eyes looking back.

FaceTime on Vision Pro will display other callers in full scale, floating around the room, giving a real sense of presence. If a user is using the Vision Pro, they'll be represented by one of the aforementioned avatars, bringing a lifelike and realistically animated avatar that mirrors expressions and mouth movements. You'll also be able to share other apps through FaceTime, including the ability to watch movies together.

With the Vision Pro, you can capture and experience photos and videos in ways never seen before, soak in panoramas in full vision, or play back 3D spacial photos and video snapped by the Vision Pro's 3D camera. Enjoy cinema level playback of films and TV with visionOS able to identify the room around you, dimming it from vision to help you focus fully on the moment.

visionOS x Disney

Disney CEO, Bob Igor, was welcomed to the stage to showcase visionOS' AR flourish being introduced into Disney+ services. With simple, hand gestures able to interact with content. Including that of an interactive Marvel What If...? experience, alongside various other Disney properties.

Apple Vision Pro for developers

The same frameworks for apps across the Apple ecosystem can be found on visionOS, allowing the same fantastic and familiar options developers have grown used to over the years. This gives developers the tools needed to re-imagine their existing apps easily into complete spatial experiences. 

Developers can use familiar tools and frameworks like xCode, SwiftUI, Reality Kit, and AR kit to build apps on visionOS. Reality Composer Pro is another developer-friendly app capable of quickly and easily building complex scenes with realistic objects. There's even a partnership with Unity3D to bring native support to the development tool.

Apple Vision Pro for productivity

visionOS will also be fantastic for productivity users. Microsoft apps like Excel, Word, and teams and conferencing tools like Zoom and Webex will all feature. With conferencing tools able to use your EyeSight-scanned avatar to communicate with others naturally.

visionOS security: Optic ID

We've already seen biometric data like fingerprints being used to keep devices and information secure. With visionOS, Apple Vision Pro is able to scan and use retina biometrics for increased security.

This new system encrypts your data, never to leave your device, and is only accessible with the secure enclave processor. This allows visionOS users to use apps like Apple Pay, App Store purchases and Password Auto-fill with nothing more than a glance. No more passwords required.

visionOS release date

visionOS’ one and only home will be on the Apple Vision Pro headset, so it should arrive alongside the Vision Pro headset in early 2024.

MacOS Sonoma was just announced at WWDC 2023, giving us a first look at what we can expect fMacOSrom the latest system update for Mac products. Thus far, it doesn’t seem like the biggest update Mac has seen, but it’s offering plenty of important new features and changes to enhance the user experience. 

macOS Sonoma has just been announced at WWDC 2023, this story is developing...

macOS Sonoma

macOS Sonoma will feature new screensavers that show videos of places around the world rather than just still images. It will also settle into the desktop when logged in. Widgets are also being upgraded so you can move widgets around the desktop freely. 

They can even blend into the background to avoid the feeling of clustered information overlapped around one another when opening another application. There’s also a widget gallery, and users can even access their widgets on their iPhone on their Mac. These apps don’t even need to be installed, just simply close or using the same network.

Gaming on macOS Sonoma

Apple is now showing off Mac’s new gaming changes, with a new feature called game mode prioritizing CPU and GPU performance. By doubling the Bluetooth sampling rate, audio will be less delayed, and input delay will be less prominent on Xbox and PlayStation controllers. With Game Porting Toolkit, developers can use this program to quickly evaluate whether a title can be played on Mac easily and convert it to do so easily.

Kojima just appeared at the Apple event to show off a new game coming to Mac. Death Stranding Director’s Cut is coming to Mac later this year. Utilizing Apple Silicon and Metal 3, it seems capable of playing the game decently well. Kojima also claims he is planning to bring future titles to Apple platforms as well. The game will be available for pre-order on the Mac App Store soon as well.

macOS Sonoma: Presenter Overlay, Safari browser, Profiles

MacOS is also introducing new changes to Video Conferencing with Presenter Overlay puts the user above the content they’re presenting. This allows the user to present things more dynamically, whether by putting it in the background or turning the user into a small circle. You can also make gestures to activate effects on video.

Safari is also getting new changes, now becoming the “world’s fastest browser.” Powered by WebKit and having been compatible with private browsing for quite some time, users are now more protected with private windows. Passkeys can also be shared with members you’re close with and trust, similarly end-to-end encrypted.

Profiles are also coming, allowing the user to separate history, extension, cookies, tab groups and favorites between different users depending on what they need them for. Whether it’s for work or personal use. Mac can now create a WebApp for any website, integrated directly into widgets to allow you to quickly open these tidbits of information without issue.

So many laptop sizes, so little time. While other laptop manufacturers are going with even numbers for their laptops’ dimensions, Apple is going odd. The company has just announced the much-anticipated MacBook Air 15. Priced at $1,299 to start, the latest addition to the vaunted MacBook line brings the iconic good looks of its brethren along with the promise of excellent performance and endurance by way of its M2 chip. But is that enough to give this plucky, young upstart the edge against its opponent, whose long ruled the roost as one of our top-rated 15-inch laptops?

Speaking of the challenger, the Dell XPS 15 is no stranger to duking it out with heavyweights. The current iteration of the laptop is stacked with a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and a powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU. Plus, you’ve got a ridiculously pretty 15.6-inch, 3.5K touch panel with its barely there InfinityEdge bezel. And while it’s tempting to call the XPS 15 a MacBook-clone, it does enough on the design side to stand out from the crowd. The end result is a solid thin-and-light that can handle just about anything you can throw at it –– even gaming. 

So which is the better laptop? Read on to see how our contenders stack up.

Pricing and Configurations

One thing's for certain Apple doesn't do cheap, but for a MacBook, this is damn near affordable. With a starting price of $1,299 ($1,199 for education), the MacBook sits squarely between the MacBook Air 13 and MacBook Pro 13. And of course, the more RAM and storage you want, the more exorbitant the price will be. We don't have pricing yet, but the Air 15 can support up to 24GB of unified memory and a maximum 2TB SSD/

Dell is a little more forgiving on the price point, at least at first. The base model costs $1,299 and has a 13th Gen Core i7-13700H CPU, 16GB of RAM, a 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD, an Intel Arc A370M Graphics and a 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1200 non-touch display.

The unit we review cost considerably more at $2,499. However, that doubles the RAM and storage. You also get a discrete Nvidia RTX 4070 GPU and a 3.5K (3456 x 2160) touch display. 

Totally tricked out with Intel vPro, 8TB of storage and 64GB of RAM, the XPS 15 costs $3,899.

Winner:  Draw

Design

Just once, I wish Apple would be more adventurous when it comes to MacBook color. There's only so much Space Gray and Silver a girl can take. Thankfully, the laptop will also come in Midnight and Starlight. But alas, those are the only colors the MacBook Air 15 comes in. None of the colors are bad, mind you, it's just that'd it be nice if Apple could throw a curveball every once in a while and go bold like it does with the iPhone.

Color palette aside or lack thereof, the MacBook Air looks just like every other member of the lineup. From its smooth anodized aluminum finish with the glossy half-eaten apple logo on the lid, to the black Magic Keyboard with the bright white backlighting making the font on each key glow brightly, it's all there. It's a shame the Air's old-school wedge design has gone the way of the dodo as it would have been a treat to see just how slim Apple could have gone with the system.

As for the XPS 15, I've got to levy the same complaint in regards to hue as it  features only one shade. Again, there’s nothing wrong with the XPS 15's anodized aluminum Platinum Silver lid with the shiny Dell on in the middle. Nor is there anything offensive about the black carbon fiber interior. It's just been done to death at this point. It's time for a change in aesthetic.

The Dell XPS 15 weighs 4.2 pounds and measures 13.6 x 9.1 x 0.7 inches.  Compare that to the MacBook Air which weighs in at 3.3 with its 0.4-inch frame, earning it the title of world's thinnest 15-inch laptop. 

Winner: MacBook Air 15

Ports

Dell didn't hold back on the ports, giving us a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a full SD card reader slot, headset jack and wedge-shaped lock so you can protect the laptop from any sticky-fingered purloiners in the vicinity. The company even included a USB-C to USB-A dongle in the box, just in case.

Apple has gotten better with its port offerings, but not much. The MacBook Air only has a pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports, a headset jack and a MagSafe charger. 

Winner: Dell XPS 15

Display

In the battle between miniLED and traditional OLED, which panel wins. Well, for now, I'm going to give it to the Dell. The 15.6-inch, 3456 x 2160p OLED touch panel put up some great results during our benchmarking, including an impressive 137.9% on the DCI-P3 color gamut. The panel has an average brightness of 371.2 nits. And Dell has this thing on lock with its four-sided, incredibly teenie-tiny InfinityEdge bezels that give viewers more screen real estate.

Now that's not to say that the MacBook Air is or is going to be a slouch in the color gamut department. It's just that looking at the MacBook Air 13 and MacBook Pro 14 and 16-inch, I'm pretty sure the Air 15 will have similar benchmarking results. However, I think the Air will really shine (pun intended) is display brightness. Apple has estimated that the 15.3-inch screen will average 500 nits of brightness. 

The Air 13 for example, got 78.6% on the color gamut test, but got a dazzling 473.6 nits. The MacBook Pro 14 reproduced 82.9% of the DCI-P3 gamut with a brightness of 453.2 nits. Lastly, the 16-inch MacBook Pro yielded 83.2% of the gamut and an average brightness of 455 nits. 

Winner: Draw

Performance

This is going to be a battle for the ages once we get the Air 15 in for review. How will its 8-core M2 chip fare against the likes of Intel and AMD. Well, if the previous models are anything to go by, people with their eye on the MacBook Air 15 have nothing to worry about as it’s rumored to be on a par with the MacBook Air 13. 

When we look at the test results for the Air 13 and its 8-core Apple M2 chip processor, the notebook really held its own. It got a multi-core score of 9,824 on Geekbench 6.0. That’s good, but nowhere close to the XPS 15’s (Intel Core i7-13700H CPU) 12,171. The MacBook Air was also bested on our video transcoding test where it took 9 minutes and 31 seconds to transcode a 4K video to 1080p compared to the Dell’s 5:01.

Unfortunately, I can’t give you an apples-to-apples comparison on the drive test as MacOS has never played nice with our file transfer test. But what I can tell you is that the Air’s 256GB SSD did very well on the BlackMagic Read/Write test with a read speed of 1609.5 megabytes per second and a write speed of 1535.4MBps. The XPS 15’s 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD got 2,060.9MBPs on our file transfer test. 

Winner: Dell XPS 15

Graphics

With an Nvidia RTX 4070 GPU under the hood, the XPS 15 all but has this round in the bag. Out of all of Nvidia's 4000 series chips, this one is a staff favorite as it splits the baby when it comes to gaming performance and affordability.

The silvery dynamo delivered 115 frames per second on the Sid Meier Civilization 6 benchmark at 1080p. The frame rate dropped to 69 fps when the resolution was increased to 4K. The MacBook Air’s 8-core Apple M2 GPU delivered 46 fps. 

I've personally seen what games optimized for Apple can do. Resident Evil Village runs just as smooth and is just as scary on Mac as No Man's Sky is just as expansive. But when it comes to the power of a discrete graphics chip, Apple silicon has a ways to go.

Winner:  Dell XPS 15

Battery Life

Outside of performance, one place I'm sure the MacBook Air 15 will shine is its battery life. Look at the previous model's performance on the Laptop Mag battery test. The MacBook Air 13 lasted a serious 14 hours and 33 minutes. Plus, Apple is rating the system for 18 hours of battery life. 

Unfortunately, the XPS 15’s beautiful super high-res display and demanding GPU come back to bite it in the ass. The laptop only lasted 8:58. It's a respectable score considering the previously mentioned handicaps, but it'd be nice to get to the 10-hour mark.

Winner: MacBook Air 15

Bottom Line

This is a close one. When it comes to overall and graphic performance, the Dell XPS 15 has it on lock. At least until we can get the MacBook Air 15 in for testing. But while the MacBook might overtake the XPS 15 in overall performance, unless  the M2 GPU gets a serious boost, it’s unlikely to come anywhere near the Dell XPS 15’s results. It’s a draw with the display as the XPS 15 has it on lock with color reproduction while the Air 15 will outshine the competition. 

We come to another draw on pricing, as both systems start at $1,299. The XPS 15 is generous with ports and dongles, but the Air 15 is all but guaranteed to outlast the Dell and many other challengers at 18 hours of battery life. In terms of design, the MacBook Air 15 absolutely takes the round as the world's slimmest 15-inch laptop. Plus, it's got a bigger color palette. True, they're the same colors we've been seeing for some years, but some is better than none. 

Overall, if you'll looking for a serious workhorse that can go from work to play seamless, the Dell XPS 15 is the way to go. If you want an extremely portable laptop that brings power and endurance, the MacBook Air 15 is a great choice. 

The MacBook Air 15 is hours away from making its WWDC 2023 debut – it's practically all but confirmed at this point. With much excitement being built for the upcoming 15-inch heir to the MacBook throne I’m here to tell you that after a week at Computex in Taipei, Taiwan, save your money – and check out these three better laptops.

What we do know is that the MBA 15 will not feature the M3 chipset, so it’s really just a larger MacBook Air M2 with maybe a few more ports. Maybe Apple will release a Pro Max version of the MBA 15-inch, which could be a difference maker. Maybe, there will be an improved display, who knows? Though it likely won’t be a touch screen – even if Apple have the feature in mind. 

I’m an MBP adopter and have become a bit of a sefl-confessed Apple Stan. However, the three laptops I’m about to share with you are equal to, or better than, whatever Apple is cooking up with the MacBook Air 15-inch, and here’s why.

EVO-rated laptop with a discrete GPU has arrived

We finally have a new Intel-EVO rated laptop with a discrete GPU on our hands, meaning more power and better battery life. We know this laptop comes with a very capable Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU that’s powerful and can handle gaming and dip into Apple’s coveted content creators market. 

The laptop I’m talking about is the MSI Prestige 16 Studio EVO. Due to a minor slip-up, we know that it will be powered by Intel’s next Gen Meteor Lake Core i7 CPU. We also know it will bring along an Integrated Intel Iris Xe GPU, which we hope has also improved. However, the next Gen Intel CPU combined with a 4060 and somehow earning the EVO designation at the same time carries some weight – meaning Apple should be a little nervous. 

We spent some time with the Prestige 16 Studio at Computex and its gorgeous 16-inch display and springy keyboard also features a veritable portapalooza, as MSI has pimped your ports and given creatives every I/O they could need, all in a lightweight form factor. 

Currently, the MSI Prestige 16 Studio will be the laptop the MacBook Air 15 has to beat, and the MacBook Pro has to fight off.

Next up, an ultralight by Asus

Asus invited us into their private meeting space at Computex, allowing us to get hands-on with the ExpertBook B9. With its 2.8K dazzling display, potent Intel Core i7 CPU, 32GB of RAM, and Up to 2TB of SSD – the ExpertBook is a different breed. Not only is this thing ridiculously thin (and light enough to be held with just two fingers) but it's also  810 H Mil-Spec certified, proving its sturdiness and reliability. The ExpertBook B9 is a 14-inch laptop that directly competes with the MBA 15 and the 14-inch MacBook Pro.

I could see many business users working in today's hybrid remote environment choosing the ExpertBook over the MBA 15 based on its fantastic display, excellent port selection, and portability. 

Last but certainly not least, The Lenovo Yoga 9i

I'm in the process of reviewing the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i with its two gorgeous OLED displays and more than all-day battery life. Powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 EVO-rated CPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage,  it has all the pep you'll need to push your documents and get creative. Some consider this one-of-a-kind laptop odd, but it has been fantastic from the moment I popped it open. 

From its unique styling, fresh green color, and fantastic touchscreen haptic typing experience, the Book 9i is something Apple would never attempt – but I wish they would. Lenovo got creative with it, and I have gotten a lot done with it. It truly is a portable hyper-productivity laptop thanks to its dual displays, and yes, it does come with a handy physical keyboard that allows you to use both displays to their full potential. Both OLED panels are touchscreens, and it also comes with an excellent stylus for you to use. 

My review will be up shortly, but the Yoga Book 9i is a better overall laptop than a MacBook Air 15-inch for most people. 

Final Thoughts

Whatever laptop you decide to buy, it's vital that you know your use case and needs before making your purchase. If you don't intend to spend hours editing videos, you probably do not need a MacBook Pro. If you’re more of a business user who pushes documents all day and gives the occasional presentation, most PC laptops will cover that and more.

I prefer a system that allows me to edit videos on the go so I don’t have to worry about being tethered to an outlet. The MacBook Pro that I use is great for that and handles all my needs. However, it costs over $5,000, and most people do not write as much, or edit the hours of video and photos, as I do.

So, think about what you will be doing and you could save yourself a great deal of money in the process. Please have a look at our best laptops page to help guide you. Also, if you’re creative, please check out our best laptops for video editing.

At the end of the day, we want you to be happy with your purchase, and get the things you desire to achieve with your laptop done. Nobody likes buyer's remorse, I know; I have an ex-wife.

WWDC 2023, Apple's annual developer conference is almost here and the excitement is rising to a fever pitch. The conference kicks off on Monday, June 5 (at 10 a.m. PT (1 p.m. ET) with the opening keynote. The Laptop Mag team will be covering up-to-the-minute news from the keynote throughout the rest of the conference so be sure to bookmark this blog.

In the lead up to the event, rumors have been flying about some exciting products, such as the highly anticipated Apple AR/VR headset, which could set the course of both augmented and virtual reality. Then there's the MacBook Air, which is rumored to get bigger to the tune of 15 inches. And while the hardware is definitely compelling, we can't forget the software with expected news on the MacOS, iOS
and watchOS fronts. 

It's an exciting time for Apple fans and the tech world at large. 

Here is everything we are expecting to see at the event:

Basically confirmed

• We've got iOS 17, which could bring an Echo Show-style home control to the lockscreen. Plus some game changing accessibility features.
• Then of course, we have new versions of macOS, iPadOS, and WatchOS.

Seemingly inevitable, but still rumored

• The first of the big potential device announcements (literally) is the 15-inch MacBook Air. We're still not 100% sure whether this will feature the M2 or M3 chip.
• And the hotly anticipated announcement of Apple's first AR/VR headset.

So, let's get into what will likely be the biggest news coming out of tomorrow's WWDC — the Apple VR headset. There has been a deluge of leaks and rumors about this device, which we'll break down here:

• The working title of this headset seems to be Apple Reality Pro, and its set to share a lot of the Apple design mantra from leaked renders — including a digital crown, and a whole lot of glass and aluminum.
• It could work directly with your Apple devices to provide the same Continuity feature you expect from all your Cupertino gadgets.
• The OS (named xrOS) is going to bring a ton of existing iPadOS apps to a virtual space, with a UI that can be superimposed on top of your real environment — altered as such using the "reality dial."
• The headset looks set to cost $3,000. That is a steep asking price to say the least!

The 15-inch MacBook Air is near...

Another device we're expecting to see is the big screen MacBook Air — increasing that size to 15 inches. Here's what we've heard about it so far:

• It could come with Apple's next generation M3 chip, but we've also heard it may not. Personally, I'd find it daft to launch a new laptop just a few months before announcing your next chipset. But we'll see!
• In an interview with Tom's Guide, industry analyst Avi Greengart predicts the price will be in the $1,299 to $1,499 range.

Will Apple Glasses make an appearance?

While everyone is getting hyped for the Apple Reality Pro, some analysts are speculating that the Apple Glasses will make an appearance. No word on if they'll make an appearance at WWDC 2023, but here's the skinny on the teched-out spectacles.

• Contrary to reports the Apple Glasses were dead in the water, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports the company's augmented reality glasses could arrive in either 2026 or 2027.
• Kuo mentions a new MetaLens technology that will replace traditional plastic lenses that could make an appearance on the Apple Glasses, sharing that "Metalens offers the advantages of lower cost and reduced height vs. existing plastic lenses."
• Apple Glasses are drastically different from Apple Reality Pro as the former is designed to replace traditional eyeglasses in favor of a more futuristic tool that will place an overlay on the glasses based on the wearer's surroundings. 

It's WWDC day!

It's Monday. You know what that means. WWDC is a few hours away, and Apple has got the custom like animation on any tweets that mention #WWDC23!

We could see No Man's Sky on Apple's VR headset

So we basically know a VR headset is set to be announced by Apple today. But beyond the apps and xrOS, what games will you be playing on it?

Well one that is being teased by the creator is No Man's Sky, as Sean Murray has been tweeting Apples on the run up to WWDC. Now, this could just be an announcement of the game coming to MacBook and iOS. However, given it's been playable on VR for a while now, it's not entirely out of the question to see it get a big ovation on Apple Reality Pro.

Big changes coming to Apple watchOS 10?

Apple's wearable wonder the Apple Watch could get some much-needed attention during today's show, with Bloomberg's Mark Gurman believing that the smartwatch is set for a "fairly extensive upgrade."

Small and subtle updates have been the smartwatch's bread-and-butter for some time, but we could be seeing something entirely different from watchOS's next major milestone unveiling today.

Don't expect too much on the hardware front though, Gurman also believes that much of the changes coming to the Apple watch will be on the software side of things. However, the future looks bright for the wearable as recent Apple patents have suggested that the Cupertino-brand is working on strap-based health sensors and a built-in camera.

Our first look at MacOS 14!

MacOS Ventura was announced at last year's WWDC, and we are set to get our first look (and potential hands-on demonstration) of MacOS 14 today. Are we set for a maintenance update or a more extensive upgrade? Time will tell!

However, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman did note during a recent appearance on "The MacRumors Show" that he believes Apple's latest OS release won't quite as "groundbreaking" as many would hope.

Instead, Apple are likely to follow up on it's push to promote further synergy across its devices. Gurman said: "The dream scenario is that you own an Apple Watch, an iPhone, a MacBook, an iPad, an Apple headset, and all five of those devices are capable of doing the same things, just in different use cases and at different times of the day."

So while we might not see anything truly world-changing in terms of features, today's announcement could still be impressive stuff for users of the wider Apple ecosystem.

Welcome to the family xrOS!

With all the talk of OS updates heading our way with today's annual WWDC, we'd be remiss not to highlight the likely debut of Apple's newest operating system specifically designed for the Apple AR/VR headset — xrOS!

Both insider sources at Apple and a recently surfaced New Zealand Intellectual Property Office trademark application confirmed the name of Apple's new OS — something that the company went to great (yet familiar) lengths to keep hush-hush.

There's not a great deal we know about how Apple's new OS differentiates itself from others (aside from its obvious requirement for handling hand/gesture inputs relating to the AR/VR headset,) however we have heard rumors about what to expect, and we do have an idea about what kind of apps may feature!

• Apple AR/VR headset may launch with over 100k iPad apps: a report by Bloomberg indicated that the Apple AR/VR headset may be capable of running over 100,000 iPad apps already in circulation.
• These 3 massively popular games could make their way to the Apple VR/AR headset: Apple has reportedly been working closely with developers to help them update and create existing and new titles for the Apple VR/AR headset, and there are a few big-name possibilities.

Headset hype is reaching a feVR pitch!

Excited about the forthcoming announcement of the Apple AR/VR headset? Not sold on the device that could define Tim Cook's legacy as CEO? Puzzled and bemused by Apple's all-in approach to augmented and virtual reality? Dismayed by the purported premium price tag it's paired with?

You're not alone! Apple's AR/VR headset has caused a great many number of us here at Laptop Mag to cycle through a range of emotions; from gleefully excited, to downright anxious. With a good few hours left to go, why not spend that time catching up on some of our ongoing thoughts about the headset and the current state of VR:

• 5 wild rumored features that will likely make it to market: Custom content, virtual facetiming and more. These five potential features that could be revealed today set our tongue wagging over the Apple AR/VR headset.
• Ignore the Meta Quest 3, buy that Apple VR/AR headset anyway: In the face of Meta attempting to steal the headset spotlight from Apple days ago, there's still plenty of reasons to keep the Apple AR/VR headset in mind.
• The State of VR: How Meta dropped the ball: What the industry, and Apple stood to learn from the Meta Quest Pro's less-than-auspicious launch.
• 5 reasons 'Reality Pro' is likely just a $3,000 dev kit: Apple's AR/VR headset will no doubt steal the show when announced at WWDC, but it might be more of a clever marketing strategy than product reveal.

M2 Ultra?

While most sources are indicating that the M3 won't be announced at WWDC 2023 today, we may still be getting some updated chips from Apple. No, not in the MacBook Air 15-inch, but Apple's desktops may get some love. A Bloomberg report indicated that an M2 Ultra and a pair of new M2 Max chips could arrive at WWDC inside an updated Mac Studio and perhaps updated iMacs.

Just 2 hours to go!

We're getting ready to head over to the event soon, but we're keeping our eyes peeled for any last minute leaks ahead of the keynote.

Tim Cook is similarly excited for things to kick off today, which is understandable as if the Apple AR/VR headset launch happens this could mark one of the defining moments of his era at Apple.

Apple Store is down

Well in support for new hardware coming at the event the Apple Store is now down with the keynote for WWDC 2023 just over an hour away. 

While the Apple AR/VR headset is still expected to be revealed during the keynote in just over 30 minutes, the most recent rumor from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo is that "mass shipments" of the headset won't be coming until the end of the year or early next year.

The mere prospect of a larger MacBook Air M2 shouldn't have us this excited, but not having to pay over $2,500 to have a MacBook with a screen over 13-inches is a thrilling notion. That extra space also could set it up to have otherworldly battery life if Apple uses it wisely.

If the Apple AR/VR headset really doesn't ship until early 2024, we will remind you of our earlier advice to wait for the second-generation Apple headsets that some believe could be here as early as 2025. Particularly given that one of them may be vastly cheaper than the first model.

Our Editor-in-Chief, Sherri L. Smith is on her way into the auditorium for WWDC! Look out for a full hands-on of whatever Apple is set to announce from her real soon...

Here we go!

Straight in at the deep end then - MacBook Air 15-inch announced!

Apple's first announcement of WWDC is the highly anticipated 15-inch MacBook Air! Check out our full news story for the latest info. But to break it down. It's the M2 MacBook Air but with a 15-inch display.

You can pick one up for $1,299 — pre-orders start today and the full launch is next week.

The Mac Studio has got an update to M2 chipsets, which ups the performance dramatically with up to 18 8K feeds! But then Apple decided to flip the script...

Blindsiding all of us watching along, Apple just randomly announced the Mac Pro, and it is a monster! Both the Mac Pro and Mac Studio is available to pre-order today, with a full launch next week.

• Mac Studio still priced at $1,999
• Mac Pro is available for $6,999

iOS 17 is here

Here we go! Craig Federighi is here to tell us all about iOS 17 - starting with a couple of fascinating updates to the phone app.

First, you are able to create your own caller poster, which will appear on phone calls or on third party VOIP apps via the app API.

And probably my favorite announcement so far - live voicemail that transcripts someone's voicemail message in real time. You can choose to pick up or ignore during this time.

AirDrop is getting some huge updates

AirDrop is already one of the best ways to share content between devices seamlessly. Now, it's getting updated with new features including NameDrop, where you just need to bring two phones together to exchange contact information. 

Not only that, but AirDrop transfers will not cancel when you are out of range, as the other device will send the remainder over the internet.

Apple's journalling app is here

The deluge of iOS 17 information continues with a new journalling app. Rather than just being an updated version of the notes app, Apple has done some work on integrating some key parts of the user experience into it.

For example, you'll get a prompt to update your journal with any photos you've taken on the day, music you've listened to and exercises you've done - with questions like "how has this made you feel today?"

iPadOS 17 brings a slew of new features

Craig Federighi just used the force to pull an iPad towards him (no, I'm not kidding) to tell us all about iPadOS 17. Here's what is coming to it

• Interactive widgets
• Customizable wallpapers
• Widgets on the homescreen
• Editable PDFs

macOS Sonoma doesn't get you drunk (sorry about that)

Craig has just confirmed the new version of macOS will be named after one of the nation's most popular wine regions — Sonoma.

Interactive widgets are making the jump over to macOS Sonoma. They can be placed wherever you want them to go, as well as sent over from your other Apple devices via continuity.

Wait...was that Kojima at an Apple event!?

No, your eyes are not deceiving you. Hideo Kojima just showed up at the Apple Event! This is part of Apple trying to convince us that they do in fact care about gaming.

You may already know that I'm always the skeptic when it comes to this. It seems that every time Apple takes a step forward in gaming, like announcing Resident Evil Village, no other movement is made to support developers.

Now however, there are some more significant steps. In fact, Death Stranding coming to Mac is the more insignificant story here (sorry Hideo). There is a new Game Porting Toolkit coming to Metal 3, which means developers can transfer their games to Apple's development platforms a lot quicker and easier.

Craig Federighi just became everyone's embarrassing uncle...

FaceTime (finally) comes to Apple TV

With the help of Continuity camera, FaceTime is coming to Apple TV. You can use hand gestures to control the call and send emoji reactions.

watchOS 10 is a huge ground-up redesign of the Apple Watch expereince

watchOS 10 is here and we're getting a full blown redesign of the Apple Watch UI. This includes significant changes to the look and feel of apps, such as moving functional buttons into the corners of fitness, adding a pop of color elsewhere.

But most important is a new widget-focussed home screen where you can pick up on quick interactions like setting a timer or viewing the weather in a snap.

The Apple Vision Pro AR headset is here

Tim Cook hit us with the "one more thing" fake out and announced the Apple Vision Pro, which is set to bring us into the world of spatial computing. Let's find out more...

Levels of AR immersion controlled by the digital crown

As a lot of rumors have suggested, the Apple Vision Pro is a mix of AR and VR tech, and you can adjust the level the virtual world takes over the real world around you to a minute degree by using the digital crown.

EyeSight keeps you present in the room

So we're really doing this, huh! The whole seeing your eyes thing is really happening? OK then.

EyeSight is essentially a display across the front of the Apple Vision Pro that presents your eyes to anyone around you, to maintain eye contact. Not only that, but it will show certain animations based on what apps you are currently in, and if you are in the full VR world, people around you can simply step into the world when you are picked up by the sensors.

How do those gesture controls work?

You've been seeing people pinch and drag rather effortlessly with hands on their laps or on the sofa. How is the headset doing this?

In the first promo video of the Vision Pro, we noticed there are cameras on the underside of the headset's front, which are being used to pick up these gestures.

Apple Vision Pro design - up close and personal

We just got the closest look at the headset so far with a proper design tour. Here are some highlights.

Here's the digital crown used to control how much of the real world you see around you.

Here's the headset itself, with a single sheet of class across the front and 3D knitted headband. Oh, and that cable, it attaches magnetically to the side...

And this is what it's connected to - an external battery pack you put in your pocket. We don't know how big it is yet, so stay tuned...

Apple Vision Pro runs on M2

What version of Apple Silicon were we going to get in the Vision Pro? Some rumors suggested A17, whereas others thought we'd get something a little more powerful.

Turns out the latter was right, as we're getting the full blown M2 chip in here. Not just that, but Apple has also added a tailor made R1 chip, which is designed to process all the data from the various sensors across the entire headset quicker.

iPad and Unity apps coming to Vision Pro

As we saw from the VR headset rumor mill, thousands of iPad and iPhone apps are coming to Apple Vision Pro — appearing as floating windows around you.

Not only that, but Unity apps and games are supported natively by the headset.

Apple Vision Pro is $3,499 - available early next year

And that's it! Stay tuned, as we will be sharing all of our post-show coverage in here real soon...

It’s been a busy week in tech with Nvidia transplanting artificial brains into NPCs, MSI accidentally revealing Intel’s 14th Gen CPUs, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealing the Meta Quest 3 hours before the Meta Quest Gaming Showcase took place, exactly as we predicted. A busy week indeed.

The reveal of the Meta Quest 3, while puzzling in its execution, is pretty big news. Not only does it highlight Meta’s unflappable persistence in trying to make the Metaverse a thing, but it also stands as one of the biggest “stay in your lane” moments the VR industry has ever seen. In just a few days' time, some poor soul has to take the stage at WWDC 2023 and reveal the long-rumored, hotly-anticipated Apple VR/AR headset will cost $3,000 (at least according to the rumors) — six times that of the Meta Quest 3’s $499 price tag.

I’ve previously likened Apple’s new “Reality Pro” VR/AR headset to little more than a $3,000 dev kit. I pointed out that this year’s big reveal could be less about the product itself and more to do with bolstering the slightly waning interest in VR/AR — a way to drum up hype before a second generation of Apple headsets swoops in to reap the reward.

However, disrupting those plans is the Meta-phorical roadblock that is the Quest 3. Whatever hype Apple builds about VR/AR will land right into Meta’s lap as they deliver a decently powerful, more affordable option with far wider appeal.

But fear not, Apple fans. Because in spite of all that, I know what’s really important to you all. I read our Laptop Mag Facebook comments. I’ve gotten the inflamed direct messages you’ve sent to my personal social media. I read you loud and clear — and you’re right: the Apple VR/AR headset will be the better device. So, you absolutely should ignore the Meta Quest 3 and put your money down on the Apple VR/AR headset instead. Why? Here’s why. 

Apple understands design

If leaked renders of the Reality Pro are accurate, anyone with at least one functioning eye can point out the glaringly obvious here. The Quest 3 is a box you wear on your face that transforms you into some sort of mythical triclops (if that’s even a thing) lifted right out of Greek mythology.

Meanwhile, just take a lovely look at a 3D artist’s rendition of the Reality Pro (based on leaked information) — it’s not half bad, is it? It looks like something actually designed for a human face. I mean sure, it looks like something designed for a professional welder, but you wouldn’t look a complete prat wearing it. In fact, if you wore it while skiing, you’d blend right in. Try wearing the Quest 3 in Aspen, however, and you’d look ridiculous.

Even after slimming down like it’s on Ozempic, the Quest 3’s frame still looks almost orthoptic in nature. Do you see that subtle bend in the Reality Pro? That’s a curve, that is. It’s a fundamental principle of design if you’re looking to create something cool and sexy. The Meta 3 also has a bit of a curve to it, but honestly, I feel like most of that comes from that weird beveled plate on the front of it, which looks like you’ve forgotten to take the dust cap off.

No, I’m afraid the only bend associated with the Meta 3 will be the mental gymnastics people will put themselves through to believe they won’t look like an extra in a budget sci-fi flick while wearing it.

The Reality Pro — it really whips the llama's ass

Let’s get all technical for a moment and delve into what going on inside each headset. It’s boring I know, but stick with me.

According to (occasionally wildly inaccurate) Bloomberg tech guru Mark Gurman, the Meta Quest 3 is outfitted with a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor. While Meta didn’t confirm that fact, it did state that the “next-gen Qualcomm Snapdragon” chipset inside is capable of twice the performance of its predecessor, the Meta Quest 2. After some hands-on time with the Zuckerberg machine, Gurman claimed it to be quite fast and snappy — he also said the Meta Quest 3 was good too.

That’s all good and well until you realize Apple is likely to make use of its M2 SoC for the Reality Pro. Those Snapdragon improvements pale in comparison to the awesome performance the M2 is already capable of. In fact, according to a leaked Chinese benchmark, the XR2 Gen 2 processor and its Adreno 740 GPU are capable of outputting 226 FPS (frames per second) at an average power consumption of 7.5W. The M2, on the other hand, is capable of 379 FPS at 22.6W (which could explain that little battery purse you’re expected to wear.)

Just to note, these aren’t real-world figures, factor in throttling to avoid thermal build and the numbers can dip noticeably. The difference, however, will still remain.

Oh, and I forgot to mention — the Apple VR headset will have two M2 chips. So that pretty much settles things. It’ll be the most powerful headset there is. Hands down.

The brand

Another big thing that separates these two devices? Only one will have that little apple on it. Whether you want to say it’s a mark of quality or a symbol of status is up to you, but that little logo could be worth the price of entry alone to some. Especially given that total production is likely to cap at just 300,000. That’s a pretty elite club. Not only would you be among the first generation of Apple VR users, well, you’d get all the likes on Instagram. That’d really draw attention.

And who cares what it costs, that’s your brand — that’s your ecosystem. We all know that Apple products cost more because they do more. The price is an indicator of quality, just the same as the logo. All your favorite apps will be there too, and more. Apple is a huge brand with powerful devices, the big guns will come to them — there’s already a great deal of speculation about big game titles making their way to the Reality Pro.

It’s a safe bet; it’s the brand you know and love. So why look elsewhere? Everything you’ll ever truly need will have that little Apple logo on it, which is all the more reason that when it comes to VR it only makes sense to do the same. Even if you decided to jump ship on this one, in a couple of headset generations, you’ll be right back for Apple Glasses anyway. So why dip out now, when you could be building a library of VR and AR content to enjoy across a number of future devices? 

Outlook

There are a lot of great points to be made when it comes to the validity of Apple’s Reality Pro headset — and that’s coming from me, someone who has… Shall we say, “pooh-poohed” the idea for a good while now. But I would be remiss if I didn’t at least close this out with the slightest of reality checks.

The Meta Quest 3 might look like the glasses case accessory for the Reality Pro, but who cares what it looks like — you won’t see it. And you likely won’t be taking it outside anyway. Have you seen what direct sunlight can do to the lenses of these things? Not to mention how sweaty things can get in them.

Even if Apple’s headset is integrated into the world through AR, you’re still unlikely to use it outside all that much anyway. Mainly because if you’re that focused on looks and style, the last thing you’ll want to do is adorn yourself with a summer tan that completely avoids your eyes, forehead, and temples.

The Reality Pro’s power is only a factor if this device seeks to really use it. But even then, you can augment any performance downfalls the Meta Quest 3 might suffer from by using it as a PC VR headset too — unlocking an enormous library of VR titles that can offer visuals as dazzling as your setup can support.

The Reality Pro might be the better device. In fact, it will be. However, the Meta Quest 3 will almost certainly be the better product. But hey, what do I know? Buy the Apple Reality Pro instead. Go on, I dare you. 

We’re all excited about the announcement of Apple’s long-rumored AR/VR headset, aren’t we? I, myself, am practically tearing off my shirt as I write this, leaping about my desk like a gibbon with the zoomies. Won’t it be wonderful when we can finally don our ski-goggle reality visor for a chance to see the world anew?

However, maybe we should all temper our expectations for this one. Outside of its nod of approval from the mastermind behind the Oculus, a leaked list of powerful components, and rumored Apple tester swooning, there are a lot of questions left hanging in the air. Particularly, why everybody at Apple Park seems to be less-than-enthusiastic about the device in question. Let’s climb down off our desks. for just a moment, and consider the reality of the situation at hand with five, easy-to-read points.

1. Supply doesn’t look set to meet consumer-level demand

A recent report by market analysts TrendForce indicates that certain brands (which could include both Meta and Pogo) may have been “overly optimistic” regarding expected sales of VR headsets in recent years — with a potential culprit being a pseudo-bubble in the market created by the global pandemic.

Alternatively, while Apple is expected to enter the market, it won’t be setting the same lofty expectations. TrendForce analysts believe that its initial VR offering will be developer focused, with shipping estimates expected to be below 100,000 units and total production to reach a potential cap of just 300,000.

Even in the face of rising costs of living, Apple still managed to ship over 26 million units of the iPhone 14 in the first two months of its release. Demand is clearly there for Apple products, even in hard times. So why would Apple expect any less of an all-new device to market? Because it simply isn’t designed for the average consumer.

Sure, there’ll be applications beyond development. However, it would seem those applications will be limited or narrowly defined at first. The Reality Pro is likely to be more of a tool than a product, something that can be used to populate the Apple AR/VR landscape with apps, games, functions, and features for future devices to make use of.

Its absurd price

If rumors are to be believed, and there are some credible names backing them, the biggest hurdle many will face when it comes to the adoption of Apple’s Reality Pro headset will come in the form of its $3,000 price tag.

Most consumers who are buying into XR/VR trend are throwing their money at Meta Quest 2 headset, one of the most affordable options on the market. This only further makes the idea of Apple launching a headset with a premium price tag seem all the more puzzling.

But not so much if you consider it as a development kit of sorts for Apple’s new xrOS operating system and platform. Development kits have historically been priced at a much higher rate than the consumer-level devices or machines that follow.

Outside of an initial wave of dyed-in-the-wool Apple devotees, who is left to market towards? And what portion of that remaining audience has upwards of $3,000 of expendable income to put down on Apple’s headset?

Apple’s true market points towards developers, creatives, and finally enterprise — a VR/AR market that was valued at $21 Billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to $364 Billion by 2030 (though we’ve already seen how projections for this technology can miss the mark by some degree.). A headset marketed toward designers, developers, and creative professionals would explain its high-end pricing and limited availability. 

It would also further the case that the headset's initial scope will be narrowly defined to these disciplines, making it a far less marketable product to mainstream audiences.

3. The lack of a “killer” app

Sure, it’s early days, and the likelihood of us knowing everything about any software the Reality Pro has onboard is slim. However, we have had a minor glimpse into what we can expect to find on Apple’s AR/VR headset — and it’s not exactly mind-blowing.

According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is focusing on a number of “key apps” to sway those on the fence about the upcoming headset. Just what are those key apps? Well, there’s apparently a revamped version of Apple Fitness+ to look forward to and a VR version of FaceTime. I’ll let that last one sit with you for a while before the irony of FaceTime without actual faces dawns on you.

If that hasn’t quite blown your socks off, then how about an “optimized” version of the Safari browser? No? Well, how about the ability to check your mail in VR? Still no? How about browsing your contacts list… But, wait for it, in VR? Yeah. I thought as much.

The lack of any real stand-out app for the Reality Pro only highlights it as some augmented wasteland devoid of any meaningful usage. It’s quite possible that the headset itself could feature new-to-iPad apps like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro, delivering creative potential on the platform. However, these aren't the things we’re hearing from insiders. Instead, we’re lumped with virtual reality stock tickers and augmented reality weather apps.

The clear lack of any single must-get, must-buy, must-try app only further leads to speculation that it’s because this is the platform that the app is supposed to be built on — and not enjoyed on.

4. Apple Glasses are the real product

Yep, you heard that right. Once again we’re traveling to the far-off distant lands of Futureville, skipping what hasn’t even been unveiled yet to let you in on what’s planned to come down the pipeline several years from now. Today’s tour will focus on the Apple AR/VR headset you should actually buy, the one likely to arrive sometime in 2025.

Here in Futureville, we’re well past Apple’s first-gen AR/VR offering, and we’re knee-deep in its cheaper, more widely available second-gen headsets. In fact, we’re also quite barmy about the Apple Glasses — the product Apple actually wanted to make originally, but didn’t have the patience to wait on the tech required to make it happen.

We at Futurville would like to extend a heartful thank you to everyone in 2024 who forked out $3,000 to beta test the Reality Pro, and for the lavish money-wasting you indulged in to do so — now go back to where you came from.

Back in 2012, Tim Cook was deriding Google for its excursions into early AR with Google Glass, reportedly claiming in an email “I can’t believe anyone (normal) will ever wear these things.” However, it seems that these words were uttered out of some form of jealousy — because it was the exact product Apple is looking to create now.

So, why buy into a product so early as a consumer, when a cheaper, more accessible, and frankly more flattering product is just a few years away? You shouldn’t. But if you want to make a lot of money by sowing the seeds of content that the next wave of headsets will enjoy? Then you absolutely should.

5. The mainstream market isn’t quite ready — yet

Let’s close things off by expanding upon something mentioned in our first point — demand. More accurately, let’s look at the actual relevance of VR in our modern lives. After rocketing skywards in 2021, the amount of people picking up a VR headset has been in slow decline. Projected sales figures are currently way off the mark, and it’s leading some manufacturers to rethink their headset plans entirely.

Now returning to the post-apocalyptic future of 2023 (with our freedom to roam the streets sans lockdowns and other mandates), It would appear that most of us aren’t ready to leave reality behind when we’re no longer isolated to the confines of our own four walls. Virtual escapism just isn’t as highly sought after now that there’s actual human interaction to escape to instead.

Steam, the world’s largest video game distribution platform, has an estimated 120.4 million active monthly players every month. In comparison, a recent Steam Survey recorded that just 1.93% of active players are reported to own or at the very least to have used a VR headset in April 2023.

This isn’t simply a matter of platform either. Even Sony cut its production plans for the PS VR2 by around 20%, shipments from Chinese XR/VR headset manufacturer Pico were more than 40% lower than expected in 2022. And Meta’s premium headset the Quest Pro has a product lifecycle shipment of only around 300,000 units. which is a flop for a consumer-focused device.

It would be a bold move, even for a brand as big as Apple, to take the same plunge and expect a different outcome. The fact is, even with Apple’s loyal fanbase, VR just hasn’t stolen the attention of the mainstream quite like it was expected to — yet.

Outlook

By all accounts, Apple isn’t looking to enter the AR/VR market fully — not yet at least.

With the market seemingly facing a slight decline, Apple’s announcement of its augmented and virtual reality platform is more likely a way to bolster that waning interest, build hype, and turn heads in the direction it wants to go in.

The announcement of the Reality Pro could be a way to ensure everyone’s eyes are pointed in the right direction when Apple makes its grand catwalk entrance, likely with the rumored Apple Glasses or a more affordable Reality Pro/One-like device, at some point in the future.

Now that’s a device I’ll primitively dance around my desk shirtless for.

Keep your eyes on Laptop Mag for the latest information of Apple's upcoming head-mounted display by bookmarking our oft-updated Apple VR headset rumor hub.

If this year's lead-up to Google I/O taught us anything, companies need to keep a tighter grip on things if they want to wow us with their big reveals. Before the stage had even been set up for Google’s annual showcase we’d heard just about everything there was to know about the latest Pixel devices — we even knew about preorders for a device that wasn’t yet announced.

So with all eyes now focused on Apple’s upcoming WWDC 2023 event, the Cupertino-based company is taking great strides to keep its secretly tightly under wraps. In fact, they almost managed to sneak this key trademark filing right under our noses — almost. 

A deeper dive

A recent trademark application to the New Zealand Intellectual Property Office is causing a buzz online. Most notably for the name attached to it — “xrOS.”

The name has been directly linked to Apple in regard to its VR/AR headset since December 2022, which is when Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that, according to inside sources, the device’s unique operating system had been changed from “realityOS” to “xrOS.”

The trademark filing comes from a Wilmington, Delaware-based company going by the name Deep Dive LLC — who have seemingly no presence online beyond this application. While the filing could be dismissed as some sort of trademark troll, the likelihood of this being an Apple shell company is almost a dead cert. Why? Because it’s not the first time Apple has done it.

Back in 2015, a filing was made with the United States Patent and Trademark Office with regards to the name “AirPods” by a company named Entertainment in Flight LLC — a company located in, you guessed it, Wilmington, Delaware. The trademark was then transferred to Apple at a later date and is seemingly the go-to Apple strategy when it comes to filing trademarks.

So now that we understand the filing is legit, we’ve one more question to ask…

"So what is it?"

The trademark includes a description of the product's capabilities alongside a single image of the xrOS logo (shown below) written in Apple’s traditional San Francisco font. While the logo itself isn’t too much to look at, the description of the xrOS’ capabilities ranges from fascinating to outright absurd.

Of the included descriptions, the xrOS software features a number of expected uses such as taking digital recordings, downloading electronic publications, the ability to playback and stream digital media, scanning and digitizing documents, and the ability to interact with and control handhelds, computers, and mobile telephones to provide virtual reality and augmented reality experiences. Some of which appear to be streaming-only video and games.

There’s also the mention of eyeglass frames, 3D spectacles, eyeglass lenses, computer interfaces, wearable computers, and head-mounted displays. All of which would be closely related to the hardware that xrOS would run on. Though the inclusion of mouse pads, tripods for cameras, wrist wrests,

xrOS is also seemingly designed with a clear focus on presentation, events, and education. The goods and services description lists the organization of trade fairs; the presentation of training sessions, cultural activities, sporting events, concerts, and exhibitions; and even auctioneering.

Beyond this, there’s a focus on creation with the ability to develop software (including games) on the platform, as well as the potential to record, broadcast, and transmit video/audio.

There are also a ton of, frankly ludicrous, descriptions in there that will leave you scratching your head for answers. Some of these include fire hose nozzles, life belts, sprinkler systems for fire protection, respirators for filtering air, life nets, life buoys, cleaning apparatus for phonograph records, rental of skin diving equipment. and crash test dummies.

Outlook

From the information within the trademark filing, we can almost certainly say that Apple plans to name its new VR/AR-based operating system the xrOS. We also know that it will be available with Apple’s soon-to-be-unveiled headset. Beyond this? We’ve got a few clues into where Apple plans on taking things, with a clear focus on merging the typical smartphone experience with that of a presentation tool.

It’s an interesting glance into Apple’s own scope for the product, but we will have to wait for WWDC 2023 for solid confirmation on just how many of these descriptions hold true. I, for one, can’t wait for the keynote detailing how Apple managed to fit a life-saving raft into its headset without crushing the vertebrae of anyone wearing it.

Be sure to check out Laptop Mag often for the latest news on all things Apple as we inch closer to this year’s WWDC event, starting June 5.

With Google I/O having come and gone, all eyes now turn toward Apple’s WWDC 2023 event. Slated to run from June 5 to June 9, Apple’s developer conference is expected to hold keynotes that reveal new MacBooks, new versions of popular Apple operating systems, and the long-awaited announcement of Apple’s VR/AR headset. The latter of which has just gained the attention of a true VR VIP.

Palmer Luckey is, in his own words, a tech enthusiast, a writer, and a modder. However, he’s also the founder and designer of the Oculus Rift — and, in a recent tweet, he’s given the nod of approval to Apple’s long-rumored VR/AR headset that could go by the name of “Reality One,” or the “Reality Pro.” 

 It’s a real(ity) one

The tweet is brief, and it lacks any real details on whether or not Luckey himself has gotten any hands-on time with the device. However, when it comes to gaining the nod of approval from those in the industry, Luckey’s public praise of Apple’s soon-to-be-revealed headset is second to none. 

Luckey played a large role in bringing VR to mainstream audiences following his 2012 Kickstarter campaign for the Oculus Rift. The device was among the first to successfully revive the VR gaming market and it earnt high praise from industry alumni like Gabe Newell and John Carmack.

Oculus would eventually be sold to Facebook for $2 billion, however, Luckey is still recognized as one of the most prominent names in VR for his contributions — and just as he garnered praise from industry figureheads before him, Luckey is currently passing that praise onto Apple’s efforts.

Outlook

Apple’s VR/AR headset still has its skeptics though. In fact, from everything that’s so far been leaked about the supposed Reality One/Pro device so far, there doesn’t seem much to celebrate just yet. At the moment, a high price point, an unclear vision, staff grumblings from within the engineering team, and no real “killer app” focus seem to be among the primary concerns.

It could be said that Apple’s leap into the VR/AR market is mistimed and that the industry needs to bloom further before we see a potential re-invention of the space. However, VR adoption rates are currently falling short of expectations, and Apple’s future headset could be exactly what it needed to bring the mass adoption shot in the arm that VR is currently lacking.

We’ll have to wait for Apple’s WWDC 2023 to get official word on its mixed-reality headset’s capabilities and features, but until then keep your eyes on Laptop Mag for the latest information as it arrives.